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‘Attempt to suppress journalistic freedom’: Rajasthan HC grants relief to Arnab Goswami in case filed by Pawan Khera, says FIR lacks evidence

OpIndia Staff
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‘Attempt to suppress journalistic freedom’: Rajasthan HC grants relief to Arnab Goswami in case filed by Pawan Khera, says FIR lacks evidence

Journalist Arnab Goswami was granted relief by the Jodhpur bench of the Rajasthan High Court in a significant decision on 3rd March, which stayed all coercive steps against him in a formal complaint filed under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The case concerned a news report that was broadcast on Republic Bharat, a Hindi news channel that is part of the Republic Media Network, about the destruction of a temple in Rajgarh and a demolition drive in Alwar, Rajasthan.

A complaint by Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera objecting to the news led to the registration of a first information report (FIR) against Goswami at the Ambamata Police Station in Udaipur on 17th May 2022. The Congress Party was in power in Rajasthan at that time under the leadership of Ashok Gehlot. Days later on 20 May 2022, Arnab Goswami was granted interim relief by the Rajasthan High Court.

The judgment was issued by a single judge bench based on the preliminary conclusion that the case lacked the aspects of the violation under Section 153A, which penalizes the incitement of animosity between various religious communities. The court emphasized that the section does not consider “mere reporting of an event of public interest, devoid of inflammatory intent or impact” to be an offense.

“Upon perusal of the contents of the FIR, it prima facie appears that the allegations against the petitioner lack substantive material connecting him to the alleged offences. The FIR does not annex any transcripts, video clippings, or substantial evidence to demonstrate that the petitioner, in his personal capacity, has made statements or engaged in acts that could invoke the provisions of Section 153A of the IPC. The absence of such material renders the allegations speculative and unsubstantiated,” the court pointed out.

According to Justice Farnjand Ali, the temporary injunction would remain in effect until Goswami’s plea contesting the criminal case’s registration is resolved. He further mentioned that even if the accusations in the FIR are believed at face value, they do not reveal the commission of a crime under the section.

The court expressed that the persistent criminal inquiry in this case appears to be an attempt to stifle journalistic freedom by exposing Goswami to unnecessary legal procedure. “The continued investigation, despite the apparent lack of evidence, suggests an attempt to suppress journalistic freedom and subject the petitioner to unwarranted legal proceedings,” it pronounced.

As a result, the court halted any coercive measures against Goswami in this case. “Accordingly, the present Stay Application is allowed. It is directed that till the disposal of the main petition, no coercive measures shall be taken against the petitioner in connection with FIR No. 276/2022 of Police Station Ambamata, Udaipur.”

The court read the clause and stated that in order for an offense to be confirmed, it must be proven that the accused either: Promoted or attempted to promote enmity, hatred, or ill-will between various communities through words (spoken or written), signs, or visible representation or performed acts that were detrimental to the preservation of harmony and disturbed public peace.

“A careful reading of the FIR and the submissions made before this court indicate that the essential ingredients of Section 153A are not satisfied in the present case. The FIR neither specifies the exact statements nor provides any documentary or electronic evidence to show that the petitioner has engaged in speech or conduct that incites enmity or disharmony. The lack of specificity in the allegations raises serious doubts about the bona fides of the prosecution’s case. Moreover, it is well settled in law that the invocation of Section 153A requires a direct and deliberate act of promoting enmity or hatred. For an offence under Section 153A to be constituted, the alleged words or acts must be clearly intentional, targeted, and capable of inciting disorder or violence. Mere reporting of an event of public interest, devoid of inflammatory intent or impact, cannot be construed as an offence under Section 153A,” the judge highlighted.

Goswami had already received interim relief in May 2022. Afterward, he was given a more restricted form of temporary relief in the case from Justice Dinesh Mehta, which was periodically extended. The state had requested that this temporary protection be removed. The obvious absence of specific allegations in th FIR against him, based on Justice Ali’s observation, cast serious doubt on the prosecution’s case and supported the initial suspicion that it was being used as “an instrument of harassment rather than a legitimate legal proceeding.” The next hearing of the case is after 8 weeks.

Background of the case

Goswami petitioned the high court to have the FIR against the broadcast dismissed. He maintained in his petition that the FIR was politically motivated and intended to harass and implicate Republic TV via legal cases. “In a case where the Congress Government of the state of Rajasthan was being questioned, a member of the Congress has filed a complaint. This establishes how the entire case is motivated and made to harass and embroil a legitimate news network and its members in a litany of cases,” the appeal submitted.

It further stated that rather than upsetting communal harmony, the broadcasts were intended to preserve it. “In fact, the channels also covered how a Muslim Group had filed a complaint naming Congress Zilla Head Yogesh Mishra for vitiating harmony in the region. Therefore, far from causing strife, Republic was exposing it.”

The words “Jahangirpuri ka badla” was used in the show regarding the demolition of Alwar. Goswami asserted the purpose of this sentence was to raise concerns about whether the demolition campaign was driven by political motivations rather than focus on any particular community.

The plea stated, “It is submitted that there was an uproar over a demolition drive in New Delhi’s Jahangirpuri on 20-21st April, 2022. This demolition was being done by the Delhi MCD which is headed by the BJP. Soon after, there was news of the Alwar Demolition in Rajashtan where there is a Congress government in power. Therefore, the question about ‘Jahangirpuri Ka Badla’ were being raised in the context of it being a political battle over demolition.”

The motion further noted that there was no disruption of public order following the broadcast. It proved that the show did not in any way endanger or disturb the peace on the ground. Additionally, Goswami informed the court that he had no personal involvement in the telecast, discussion or telecast nor was he involved in Republic Bharat’s daily decision-making process.

The case was called to be a blatant abuse of the legal system driven by political vendettas and other factors. Likewise, it was contended that the selective start of criminal proceedings against the petitioner when similar reports were published by other media houses raises major concerns about the probe’s objectivity and motivation. Goswami added that the filing of the FIR seemed to be an attempt to intimidate and silence independent journalism ,which is a cornerstone of democracy.

How Christian groups in Arunachal Pradesh are opposing anti-conversion law, meant to protect indigenous people: Read about the law and Gauhati HC order

Dibakar Dutta
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How Christian groups in Arunachal Pradesh are opposing anti-conversion law, meant to protect indigenous people: Read about the law and Gauhati HC order

On Thursday (6th March), Christian evangelist groups held demonstrations against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA) in the northeastern state.

They were mobilised under the banner of the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) in Itanagar to protest against a law, meant to protect indigenous people in Arunachal Pradesh from predatory and deceitful conversions.

ACF president Tarh Miri declared that more than 2 lakh Christians participated in the protest, demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA). The 1978 law has been lying dormant for about 44 years now.

“We are against the implementation of the APFRA because it is targeted at Christians and will curtail our freedom of religion,” Tarh Miri misled his supporters.

Earlier on 17th February this year, ACF staged an 8-hour hunger strike. The protestors were seen holding placards which read ‘We demand the repeal of APFRA,’ ‘Do not turn us against one another,’ and ‘There is no honour in enforcing APFRA.’

On 21st February, ACF members met the Home Minister of the State Mama Natung, but the meeting proved ‘inconclusive.’

What does the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act say

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act came into existence in October 1978 to “provide for prohibition of conversion from one religious faith to any other religious faith by use of force or inducement or by fraudulent means and for matters connected therewith.”

The legislation, which received the assent of the President of India, was aimed to protect indigenous religions, beliefs and practices.

It identified several ‘indigenous Faiths’ including Buddhism (practiced by the Monpas, Membas, Sherdukpens, Khambas, Khamptis and Singphos), Vaishnavism (practised by Noctes), Akas and Nature worshippers (including worshippers of Dunyi-Polo).

Section 3 of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act clearly says – “No person shall convert or attempt to converts, either directly or otherwise, any person from one religious faith to any other religious faith by the use of force or by inducement or by any fraudulent means nor shall any person abet any such conversion.”

Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act 1978Download

The law further makes it clear that anyone found violating Section 3 would be liable to a fine of up to ₹10,000 and punished with maximum imprisonment of up to 2 years.

It also mandates imitating the Deputy Commissioner of the particular district (in Arunachal Pradesh) about the conversion of an individual from a religious faith to another. Failure to do so is punishable with imprisonment of up to 1 year and a fine of up to ₹1000.

“An offence under this Act shall be cognizable and shall not be investigated by an officer below the rank of an Inspector of Police,” states Section 6 of the legislation.

At the same time, it states categorically that prosecution under the Act needs prior sanction from the Deputy Commissioner of police or authorisation from an officer now below the rank of Extra Assistant Commissioner.

The legislation also clarifies that that the government will make rules for the implementation of the Act.

The Background of the Controversy

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act was enacted to protect indigenous communities in the northeastern state from unethical and deceitful conversion by predatory evangelist groups. At that time, P.K. Thungon was the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh.

For context, the Christian population in the State was 0.79% as per the 1971 census data. Within the next 40 years, the Christian population has drastically risen to constitute 30.26% of the total population of Arunachal Pradesh (2011 Census data).

Despite the anti-conversion law being enacted 46 years ago in 1978, it was never implemented due to opposition by Christian groups.

This explains the large-scale protests against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act as the deceitful conversion of indigenous tribes would become punishable in the State.

gauhati-high-court-orderDownload

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Gauhati High Court seeking the enactment of rules by the government of Arunachal Pradesh for the implementation of the anti-conversion law. The major breakthrough in the case came in September 2024.

A 2-judge Bench of Justices Kardak Ete and Budi Habung closed the PIL after examining the response of Advocate General I. Choudhury, who pointed out that it would require 6 months for the government to frame rules.

“We expect the concerned authorities to be mindful of their obligations and the draft rules would be finalized within a period of 6(six) months from today,” the Gauhati High Court noted in its order on 30th September 2024.

With just 3 weeks away from the deadline set up by the court, Christian groups have upped their ante in opposing the legislation.

Indigenous people extend support to the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act

On the other hand, the indigenous groups have extended their support for the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act 1978.

An outfit by the name of ‘Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP)’ is fighting for the religious rights of the indigenous group. They have held demonstrations and foot pilgrimages to extend their heartfelt support for this legislation.

OpIndia spokes to advocate Tambo Tamin, a member of IFCSAP and the person who filed the PIL in the Gauhati High Court. “It is not draconian law. We need it for the freedom of all religious groups,” he told us.

IFCSAP has uploaded several posts on its Facebook page, emphasising that the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act 1978 is essential for the freedom of all individuals.

The General Secretary of the outfit, Maya Murtem, told The Indian Express, “The rules will only be against forceful conversions and allurement. Those who are opposing it are showing that they have the wrong intent. We need it because currently conversions are not being recorded at all and we don’t have any data on it… The law will require each conversion to be reported.”

In the meantime, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu has assured, “(The rules) are not against Buddhists, Hindus, Christians or Muslims. The government has been asked to frame the rules to give some more protection to indigenous (faiths).”

The government is willing to take all stakeholders on-board before implementing the law, which has been lying dormant for 44 years.

Ranveer Allahabadia Controversy: The YouTuber appears before Guwahati crime branch over his comments on “India’s Got Latent” show

ANI
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Ranveer Allahabadia Controversy: The YouTuber appears before Guwahati crime branch over his comments on “India’s Got Latent” show

YouTuber Ranveer Allahabadia arrived at the office of the Crime Branch, Guwahati Police Commissionerate, on Friday. His visit comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the controversial ‘India’s Got Latent’ show, which has sparked legal and public backlash due to its explicit content.

The controversy began when an FIR was filed by the Guwahati Police on February 10, accusing several prominent influencers and YouTubers, including Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, Apoorva Makhija, Ranveer Allahabadia, and Samay Raina, of promoting obscenity through their participation in the show.

The FIR references charges under various sections, including the Indian Penal Code, the Information Technology Act, and the Cinematograph Act, specifically highlighting the inappropriate and vulgar discussions that took place during the episode in question.

Earlier, on February 27, Ashish Chanchlani appeared before the Guwahati Crime Branch along with his advocate, where police officials recorded his statement as part of the investigation.

The police had registered a case under Cyber PS case no. 03/2025, which involved charges of promoting indecent representation of women and engaging in obscene conduct.

On March 6, the legal proceedings surrounding the ‘India’s Got Latent’ show escalated with the influencers appearing before the National Commission for Women (NCW) in Delhi.

Among those present were YouTubers Ashish Chanchlani and Ranveer Allahabadia, influencer Apoorva Makhija, and the show’s producers, Saurabh Bothra and Tushar Poojari.

The group provided statements to the NCW Chairperson and legal team in connection with the controversial remarks made during the show.

The controversy began when a viral incident from the show drew sharp criticism from the public and netizens, leading to calls for stricter regulation of online content.

The show featured inappropriate comments from its guests, which led to widespread outrage. In response, Ranveer Allahabadia and Apoorva Makhija recorded their statements before the NCW to address the issue.

In the midst of the ongoing legal battle, YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani took to social media to express his gratitude for the overwhelming support from his fans.

In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, he acknowledged the messages he had received and reflected on the difficult times he was facing.

“Hello doston, kaise ho aap log? I know, maine aapke messages padhe hain, chal raha hai. Maine socha story pe aapse baat kar lun, lekin ab samajh nahi aa raha kya kahun. Lad lenge situation se, dekhe hain aise tough times, isse bhi kuch naya seekh lenge,” Chanchlani said in the video.

He further asked for his followers’ continued support when he resumes posting content. “Main aap sabse bas yahi request karta hoon ki meri family aur mujhe apni prayers mein rakhna. Jab bhi main wapas aaun, mera kaam thoda idhar-udhar ho gaya hoga, lekin tab bhi support karna. I will work hard, as I have always worked hard. Bas dhyan rakhiye sab log apna,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ranveer Allahabadia, who was also involved in the controversy, addressed the issue on social media.

Allahabadia had made a highly inappropriate comment during an episode of ‘India’s Got Latent’, which drew considerable backlash.
In response to the criticism, Allahabadia issued a public apology on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

“My comment wasn’t just inappropriate, it wasn’t even funny. Comedy is not my forte. I am just here to say sorry,” Allahabadia said in his video.

He further emphasized his commitment to using his platform more responsibly, particularly given his influence over younger audiences.
“Family is the last thing that I would ever disrespect,” Allahabadia said.

In a related development, the Supreme Court has granted Ranveer Allahabadia permission to resume his podcast, ‘The Ranveer Show,’ albeit with specific conditions regarding decency and morality.

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

Christian group use China threat to oppose anti-conversion law in Arunachal Pradesh, indigenous faiths group demands immediate implementation

OpIndia Staff
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Christian group use China threat to oppose anti-conversion law in Arunachal Pradesh, indigenous faiths group demands immediate implementation

On 6th March, Christians in Arunachal Pradesh protested against a law that would soon be enacted to prohibit conversion. They protested the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA) of 1978 at a rally organized by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) at Borum, close to the state capital Itanagar. The demonstrators argued that the act would further exacerbate religious differences in the tribal state, as it borders China and has been experiencing peace.

More than two lakh Christians of all denominations congregated at Borum, according to ACF president Tarh Miri. Alleging that the law will hurt Christians in the state and restrict their freedom of religion, ACF has been fighting against the introduction of APFRA. After hearing a plea in September 2024, the Gauhati High Court’s Itanagar Bench directed the government to draft its rules within six months. The appeal called for action against the state’s “failure” to carry out the act.

P.K. Thungon, the state’s first chief minister, passed the law in 1978, but subsequent governments were unable to put it into effect. The ACF has intensified its efforts and advocates the repeal of the act, with the deadline set for this month-end. “The minister conveyed at the meeting that the act cannot be repealed as it has Presidential assent and the government has been directed by court to implement it. However, he assured us that an inclusive committee would be constituted to oversee the issue. He also requested us to call off the 6th March rally, but we will go ahead with it,” Miri earlier claimed after a meeting with Arunachal Pradesh Home and Indigenous Affairs Minister Mama Natung.

Considering the number of the assembly, he stated, repealing the act was challenging and added, “The government is trying to implement it due to pressure from external communal forces.” He further threatened, “If APFRA is not repealed within this month, we will organise a referendum rally. If the act is not repealed, it should be kept dormant like what it was.” James Techi Tara, the secretary general of the ACF, had already issued a warning that the implementation of APFRA would incite hostility and announced, “Changing faith is one’s own choice.”  

“The act is not targeted at any specific faith, according to the Arunachal Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party government. According to Natung, the state administration would discuss the act’s requirements in “consultative meetings with all religious leaders and other stakeholders.” Chief Minister Pema Khandu also responded to the rallies by cautioning the people of the state not to misunderstand the APFRA, whose regulations were being drafted in accordance with the high court’s directive. “The department concerned and the state government are abiding by the court’s directives and the initial draft is being prepared,” he conveyed.

Addressing the ACF delegates, former home minister James Lowangcha Wanglat said, “The revival of the APFRA prompts considerable concerns, particularly in a strategically critical state like Arunachal Pradesh, which sits at the confluence of the India-China-Myanmar borders. As China continues to assert its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, labelling it ‘southern Tibet’, it’s crucial to navigate local dynamics with sensitivity and foresight.”

PD Sona, Education Minister and government spokesperson pointed out, “There is confusion among people over the act, people are making their own narrative. Since there is a court directive, the government will form a committee having our MLAs, a different faith leader led by the home minister and the committee will frame the rules in such a way that there is no prejudice.”

On 17th February, the ACF began a series of agitations against the law by going on an eight-hour hunger fast. The forum’s leaders met with Natung four days later in a “inconclusive” meeting.

Indigenous group supports APFRA

While Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) is opposing the law, the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) is supporting it and has sought its early implementation. They have staged counter rallies in support of the law in parallel to ACF rallies. “The Act aims at protecting and preserving indigenous faith but not against any other religious faith. I have many Christian friends, including in my family, who are not against the act,” said IFCSAP president Dr. Emi Rumi during such a rally last week.

Insisting on immediate implementation of APFRA without any delay, Rumi said, “Chief Minister Pema Khandu need not to worry as most people of the state are in its favour.” As per IFCSAP, APFRA is crucial for preserving indigenous faith and cultural heritage of the state.

What is APFRA

The APFRA forbids religious conversion “by use of force or inducement or by fraudulent means” and punishes “converting or attempting to convert forcefully from one religious faith to another” with a maximum fine of Rs 10,000 or two years in prison. It also requires that every conversion activity be reported to the district’s Deputy Commissioner, and the individual involved in the conversion will be penalized if they don’t adhere to the rule.

The state’s Christian population has grown rapidly since the founding of the region’s first church in 1957, which has sparked discussions about the potential risks to “indigenous religions and cultures.” The percentage of Christians in the state jumped from 0.79% in the 1971 census to 30.26% in the 2011 census.

Although the state’s Christians reject APFRA, the followers of indigenous faiths have extended their support. They also launched a rally and demanded its early adoption. They organized a “Sadbhavna Pad Yatra” at Doimukh to show support for the state government’s decision to enact the act.

Maya Murtem, general secretary of the Indigenous Faiths and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh highlighted, “The act is not against any religion. It applies to us as well. The rules will only be against forceful conversions and allurement. Those who are opposing it are showing that they have the wrong intent. We need it because currently conversions are not being recorded at all and we don’t have any data on it. The law will require each conversion to be reported.”

Pai Dawe, president of the organisation complained, “This act was introduced in 1978 for the welfare of the indigenous tribal society. Despite repeated requests, it has not been implemented yet.” Moreover, Kamjai Taism Secretary of Rangfrah Faith Promotion Society (RFPS) mentioned, “The act is for people of all faiths in Arunachal. It will serve all. This is not at all unconstitutional.” The purpose of the act was to protect indigenous traditional religious customs from interference or influence. However, it was never put into practice.

Many tribes of Arunachal Pradesh practice a wide range of beliefs and rituals, ranging from polytheistic nature worship and ancestor worship to Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. Over time, the worship of Donyi Polo has become an institutionalized aspect of these practices. The three main communities in the state are Buddhists, Christians and indigenous faith believers.

Moradabad Dalit minor says rapist Salman boasted about being paid for Islamic Jihad, converting Hindu girls, had also force-fed her beef: Read exclusive FIR details

OpIndia Staff
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Moradabad Dalit minor says rapist Salman boasted about being paid for Islamic Jihad, converting Hindu girls, had also force-fed her beef: Read exclusive FIR details

Alarming details have come to light in the case of the gangrape of a 14-year-old Dalit girl in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. The victim’s family had complained against 4 accused persons identified as Salman, Zubair, Rashid and Arif in the case. The police had arrested only the main accused Salman till yesterday on March 6. Today two more accused have been arrested.

In the FIR accessed by OpIndia, the victim has revealed horrifying details of her abuse by the accused and the alleged nexus to convert Hindu girls to Islam. The victim said that the accused Salman told her that he was receiving funding to carry out Islamic Jihad and convert Hindu girls to Islam. “I (Salman) receive huge funding for carrying out Islamic Jihad. You are just a small girl. I have converted so many girls like you to Islam. We (Muslims) will go to Jannat (heaven) for doing this,” the victim said in the FIR quoting the accused.

The victim revealed that all the accused repeatedly sexually exploited her for two months and when she would ask for food, they force-fed her beef. “Whenever I gained consciousness, I used to ask them (the accused) for food. They used to give me buffalo meat or beef to eat. When I refused to eat it, they force-fed me beef and raped me,” the victim stated in the FIR.

The accused also allegedly burned the ‘Om’ tattoo on the victim’s hand with acid. “Salman burnt the Om tattoo on my hand with acid. He also threatened to throw acid on my face,” the victim said.

As per the FIR, after sexually exploiting the victim for two months, accused Salman dropped the victim at Bhojpur, Uttar Pradesh. The victim’s aunt had complained that the minor girl was abducted by the accused while going to a local tailor’s shop on January 2 this year. She was abducted in a vehicle, made unconscious with some medicines and was held captive for several days by the accused. The accused have allegedly threatened the victim’s family to withdraw the case.

An investigation is going on in the case.

Supreme Court declines to stall Dharavi Redevelopment project by Adani, issues notices on UAE-based company’s proposal to increase its offer by 20%

OpIndia Staff
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Supreme Court declines to stall Dharavi Redevelopment project by Adani, issues notices on UAE-based company’s proposal to increase its offer by 20%

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to stay the Dharavi redevelopment project being undertaken by the Adani Group. The court was hearing a plea by UAE-based Seclink Technologies, which had won the bid originally but lost in re-tendering after the project was modified. Seclink Technologies has challenged the Maharashtra government’s decision to cancel its 2019 bid for the redevelopment of Dharavi slums and issue a fresh tender in 2022 to Adani group.

The apex court declined an oral request for a status quo order on the project.

However, the court issued notices to Maharashtra Government and Adani Properties on the proposal by Seclink to increase its offer by 20%. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar accepted the plea saying that it would increase its offer of ₹7,200 crore by 20 per cent.

The court ordered Seclink to submitted an affidavit in this regard. The court noted that the petitioner has offered to pay a higher amount than highest bidder Adani. Moreover, Seclink said it will agree with all other agreements of the highest bidder, which includes ₹1,000 crore towards lease and ₹2,800 crore toward indemnity amount.

During the hearing, Adani Group’s advocate Mukul Rohatgi told the court that equipment worth hundreds of crores has already been purchased by Adani for the project. Responding to this, the bench ordered to maintain an escrow account for all the payments.

The Bombay High Court in December 2024 had upheld the Maharashtra government’s decision to cancel the Seclink’s 2019 winning bid for the project and issue a fresh tender in 2022. The high court had said that the company’s petition lacked force and hence stands dismissed.

In 2018, Seclink Technologies had emerged as the highest bidder with a ₹7,200 crore offer for the Dharavi slum redevelopment project. However, the state government cancelled this tender, citing various external factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which impacted the financial and economic landscape. Additionally, an extra 45 acres of land became available for the project from the Indian Railways in March 2019, further justifying the reissuance of the tender.

In 2022, a new tender was issued with additional conditions, and Adani Properties secured the project with a ₹5,069 crore bid. Seclink Technologies contested both the cancellation of the 2018 tender and the awarding of the 2022 tender to Adani, alleging a lack of transparency and fairness in the process.

Seclink argued that its ₹7,200 crore offer was higher and more deserving than Adani’s ₹5,069 crore bid, and alleged that the decision to cancel the earlier tender issue a fresh one was biased, violating principles of natural justice.

The state govt has stated that even though Seclink had emerged as winner in the 2018 tender, no formal contract was signed with the company, therefore the company does not have any legal right against cancellation of the tender process. The govt said that the 2018 tender was officially cancelled due to significant changes in tender conditions post the “Bid Due Date.”

The Dharavi redevelopment project aims to transform the 259-hectare slum area in central Mumbai into a modern urban space, providing improved housing and amenities for its residents. The project’s progression is expected to significantly impact the lives of Dharavi’s inhabitants and the city’s landscape.

Youth will now be able to write Central Armed Police Forces examination in all languages in eighth schedule, including Tamil: Amit Shah

ANI
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Youth will now be able to write Central Armed Police Forces examination in all languages in eighth schedule, including Tamil: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, youth will now be able to write their Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) examination in all languages in the eighth schedule, including Tamil.

He inaugurated various infrastructure and development projects at the 56th Raising Day of CISF in Arakkonam, Ranipet, on Friday. He released the CISF journal ‘Sentinel’ on the occasion.

He reviewed the parade being held at the 56th Raising Day of CISF in Arakkonam.

Amit Shah said, “Till now, there was no place for mother tongue in the CAPF recruitment. PM Narendra Modi decided that our youth will now be able to write their CAPF exam in all languages in the eight list, including Tamil. I want to urge the CM of Tamil Nadu to take steps towards introducing curriculum of medical and engineering courses in the Tamil language as soon as possible.”

He said that through this, not only the mother tongue would be strengthened but also the youth taking exams in Tamil would get equal opportunity.

Amit Shah said, “In the last 56 years, CISF has played a crucial role in the progress of the country and movement of the people. Whether it is industrial development or trade, tourism, or any research centre in the country without CISF, the security of these institutions cannot be imagined. PM Modi has taken the commitment to make India the third-largest economy by 2027 and ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.”

He said that CISF would play an important role in fulfilling these objectives.

“I paid tributes to 127 fallen CISF jawans who laid down their lives in line of duty. 22 jawans were awarded here. 10 jawans got the President police medal. 10 have got gallantry medal. 6 projects have been inaugurated worth 88 crores for the welfare of CISF personnel. In 2019 it was decided to celebrated this event in various parts of the country instead of Delhi,” he further said.

He further said that Tamil Nadu has strengthened the Indian culture.

“Everyday CISF ensures safe movement of at least 1 crore people in the country. Since CISF has taken charge of airports, there are no incidents of any security lapse. The security of the new Parliament is also being handled by CISF. In the Delhi metro, more than 70 lakhs passengers are travelling safely. In marine safety, nearly 250 ports would be ensured security by CISF,” he added.

He further said that in a year, more than 1 lakh youth have been recruited through CAPF.

“In 2024, recruitment has been done in more than 14000 posts. The recruitment is going on for 50,000 youths through CAPF,” he further added.

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

Amid tumbling financial markets and retaliatory tariffs by affected countries, Trump delays tariffs on Canada and Mexico

OpIndia Staff
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Amid tumbling financial markets and retaliatory tariffs by affected countries, Trump delays tariffs on Canada and Mexico

After tumbling global markets and retaliatory tariffs by affected countries following the announcement of tariffs by the US, President Trump delayed some of the tariffs for Mexico and Canada on Thursday (6th March). The stock market took a hit after Trump’s tariffs took effect on 4th March.

As per reports, the US President signed an executive order to delay 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods covered under the North American Trade Agreement dismissing any links to market turbulence. Trump said that the fresh tariffs have been delayed by a month to ease the concerns of a trade war. The decision to delay the tariffs reportedly came hours after Trump had a discussion with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and negotiations between Canadian and US officials.

The delay in US tariffs has provided temporary relief to automakers as auto parts cross North American borders multiple times during the production phase. The order announcing a one-month exemption on autos coming through the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) reportedly came after the US administration had discussions with three big US automakers- Stellantis, Ford and General Motors. About half of the American products come through the USMCA. Trump justified the delay order as being “much more favourable for our American car manufacturers”.

Canada maintains its initial retaliatory tariffs on US imports

It is being reported that Canada has retained the retaliatory tariffs on the US imports imposed after the announcement of US tariffs on Canadian goods. However, the country has put on hold its next round of counter-tariffs. In the initial retaliatory tariffs, Canada imposed US$21 billion worth of tariffs on US goods including orange juice, peanut butter, coffee, appliances, footwear, cosmetics, motorcycles, and pulp and paper products. The next round of Canadian tariffs worth US $ 87 billion was slated to take effect within three weeks after the initial tariffs that came into effect on 4th March. These tariffs were to be imposed on US electric vehicles, fruits, vegetables, dairy, beef, pork, electronics, steel and trucks. As a counter to the US reciprocal tariffs, Canada planned to impose levies on US imports worth $155 billion over 21 days.

Meanwhile, Douglas Robert Ford Jr., the Premier of the Canadian province of Ontario said that the province would charge an additional 25% for electricity supplied to 1.5 million Americans in response to the US tariffs. Ontario supplied electricity to Minnesota, New York and Michigan. Ford said that Ontario would retain its electricity tariffs despite the temporary suspension of the US tariffs calling for a permanent removal of the US tariffs.

On 4th March, the US President announced fresh tariffs for India and China to be effective from 2nd April. Justifying reciprocal tariffs, the US President said that other countries have been unfairly taxing the US and therefore now it is the turn of the US to tax them. He said that India imposed unfair tariffs on the US automobile by over 100% and that China imposes tariffs on US products twice the US tariffs on Chinese products.

Annamalai slams Stalin’s ‘Hindi imposition’ drama, tells DMK to stop swinging paper swords

ANI
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Annamalai slams Stalin’s ‘Hindi imposition’ drama, tells DMK to stop swinging paper swords

 The debate on the alleged third language imposition as part of the National Education Policy in Tamil Nadu has snowballed into an all out battle between the BJP and the ruling DMK alliance in the state.

BJP State Chief K Annamlai on Friday claimed that the BJP’s pro NEP signature campaign had received a positive response from the people of the state.

“Thiru MK Stalin, our online signature campaign through http://puthiyakalvi.in is supported by over 2 lakh people within 36 hours, and our on-ground signature campaign continues to receive an overwhelming reception across TN. As the TN CM, you seem visibly rattled, and your rants against the signature campaign mean nothing to us,” Annamalai posted on X.

he further hit out at the Tamil Nadu CM alleging that the DMK could not carry out a signature campaign despite being in power.

“Despite being in power, you couldn’t carry out a signature campaign against NEET, and remember that your cadres had to throw the pamphlets in the dustbin after realising where they truly belonged. Thiru MK Stalin, stop swinging your paper word against the delusional Hindi imposition. Your fake Hindi imposition drama has already been exposed. It’s unfortunate that you haven’t realised it yet,” he further said.

Annamalai’s post was in response to MK Stalin’s earlier post which mocked the BJP’s campaign calling it a circus.

In a post on X Stalin wrote, “Now the BJP’s circus-like signature campaign for the three-language formula has become a laughing stock in Tamil Nadu. I challenge them to make this their core agenda in the 2026 Assembly elections and let it be a referendum on Hindi imposition. History is clear. Those who tried to impose Hindi on Tamil Nadu have either been defeated or later changed their stance and aligned with DMK. Tamil Nadu will not tolerate Hindi colonialism replacing British colonialism.”

“From the names of schemes to awards to Union government institutions, Hindi has been imposed to a nauseating extent, suffocating non-Hindi speakers, who are the majority in India. Men may come, men may go. But even long after the dominance of Hindi is shattered in India, history will remember that it was DMK that stood as the vanguard,” he further added. 


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

Uttar Pradesh: Sartaj and his aides ambush wedding procession of Hindu family, attack victims with sticks

OpIndia Staff
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Uttar Pradesh: Sartaj and his aides ambush wedding procession of Hindu family, attack victims with sticks

On Wednesday (5th March), a Hindu family came under attack in Saidpur Khurd village in the Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh.

According to a report by Live Hindustan, Vikas, the son of one Naresh Kashyap, was taking his wedding procession through the village. Some firecrackers were also burnt as part of the celebrations.

At that time, one firecracker fell on a pile of wood belonging to a man named Sartaj. It led to a small fire, which was immediately extinguished by those who were part of the wedding procession.

However, Sartaj engaged in a heated argument with the Hindu family and soon came to blows. His family attacked the wedding guests with sticks. One Hindu youth named Amit was taken away by Sartaj’s family and thrashed mercilessly.

Besides him, several others including Jagmohan, Pratap, Roki, Jaibeer and Deepak were also injured and had to be rushed to the district hospital.

This resulted in large-scale chaos in the Saidpur Khurd village. On learning about the matter, a police team reached the spot and pacified the situation. The wedding rituals were thereafter completed in the presence of the police.

In the meantime, Sartaj and his aides fled from their homes. The police conducted raids in the village and lodged a case against 14 named and 50 unidentified accused for assault.

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