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Probe into deepfake video of actor Rashmika Mandanna hits dead end as social media platforms can’t identify the origin

ANI
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Probe into deepfake video of actor Rashmika Mandanna hits dead end as social media platforms can’t identify the origin

The probe into the deepfake case of actor Rashmika Mandana has hit a dead end as social media platforms have shown their inability to give any information about individual(s) who have allegedly made the deep fake profiles.

As per the sources, the accused has removed and deleted his or her account from the social media platforms.

The officials said that the account could have been created with a fake identity and the Virtual Private Network (VPN) could have been used to upload the deep fake videos.

Union Minister for Communications, Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw on November 18 said that notices were issued to all social media platforms directing them to take necessary steps to identify and remove such content.

As per the officials, though the police detained a few suspects, none of them created the deep fake video in question rather they only shared the video.

The investigation into the matter is still underway, the officials said.

Delhi Police has received a response suggesting their inability to provide details about the suspect’s account which has been deleted from the Social media platforms.

Delhi Police IFSO (Internet Freedom and Safety for Online Users) unit earlier this week sent a letter to Meta (formerly Facebook) but the social media company responded by expressing its inability to provide details of the deleted account.

The sources further informed that the police are awaiting a reply from GoDaddy (a publicly traded internet domain registry) since a similar profile was made through GoDaddy also.

Highlighting the danger of deepfakes, Ashwini Vaishnaw on November 18 during an interaction with the media, said, “Deep fake is a big issue for all of us. We recently issued notices to all the big social media forms, asking them to take steps to identify deepfakes, to remove those content. The social media platforms have responded. They are taking action. We have told them to be more aggressive in this work.”

On November 6, a modified video of actor Rashmika Mandanna appeared online sparking discussions of digital safety. In the viral video, it can be seen that a woman resembling the actress Rashmika was entering a lift wearing a black swimsuit.

The video quickly went viral and several social media users came forward to confirm that it was a deep fake. It was later identified that the video was of a British Actress Zara Patel.

The actor strongly reacted to the alleged deep fake video and said, “I feel really hurt to share this and have to talk about the deep fake video of me being spread online. Something like this is honestly, extremely scary not only for me but also for each one of us who today is vulnerable to so much harm because of how technology is being misused.”

The Delhi Police registered the FIR under relevant sections, and an investigation has been carried out into the matter.

Delhi Police said that a technical analysis is underway to identify the accused involved in the deepfake video case of the actress Rashmika Mandanna.

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

Peace can be established in the world only through Hindu values of truth, tolerance and harmony: Thai PM Srettha Thavisin

ANI
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Peace can be established in the world only through Hindu values of truth, tolerance and harmony: Thai PM Srettha Thavisin

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin highlighted Hindu values that promote peace and said that the world struggling with turmoil should take inspiration from Hindu values of non-violence, truth, tolerance and harmony, only then peace would be established in the world.

With the aim of establishing the identity of Hindus in the world as a progressive and talented society, the Third World Hindu Congress was inaugurated here today.

The Prime Minister of the host country, Thavisin, was to participate in the inaugural session but due to some reasons, he could not come. The message of the Thai Prime Minister was read out in the meeting. He said that it is an honour for Thailand to host the World Hindu Congress organized on the principles and values of Hinduism.

The Vedas visualize the key principles of synthesis and balance for a peaceful coexistence. The concept of shanti is established on these principles.

With the proclamation of ‘Victory of Dharma’, eminent saint Mata Amritanandamayi, Swami Purnatmanand of Bharat Sevashram Sangh, Sarsanghchalak Mohanrao Bhagwat of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale, General Secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad Milind Parande and founder-facilitator of the programme Swami Vigyananand lit the lamp.

The World Hindu Congress gathered more than 2200 delegates invited from 61 countries of the world who made remarkable achievements in the fields of education, economy, academics, research and development, media and politics.

These include MPs and ministers from about 25 countries. There are about 10 lakh people of the Indian community living in Thailand whose contribution to the trade and economic development of the country is noteworthy.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister EAM Jaishankar recently said that India’s defence and security relationship with Thailand has grown after 2014. He noted that the Thailand government has also shown the same sentiment.

While addressing the Indian diaspora in Thailand, Jaishankar noted that India had a look-east policy while Thailand had a look-west policy. He highlighted the changes that took place in terms of India-Thailand ties after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014.

While interacting with the Indian community, Jaishankar said, “We engage with the countries of the ASEAN. So, for us, this is not just a relationship. It is not even a relationship that began, as I said, in 1947, in the modern form. It is, of course, a relationship that goes back in history, but it is a relationship that is associated with reform and change in India. So, this period that we are talking about, especially the last 25 years, this is a time when this relationship has grown very much.”

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

Bengaluru set to host Namma Kambala buffalo race for the first time: Here’s all you need to know

Shraddha Pandey
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Bengaluru set to host Namma Kambala buffalo race for the first time: Here’s all you need to know

Kambala, a famed traditional buffalo racing competition in coastal Karnataka, is ready to make a mark this weekend in Bengaluru. On November 25 and 26, the folk sport will be hosted in the Palace Grounds in the heart of the city. This is the first time that the Kambala race will be taking place in Bengaluru.

The traditional buffalo race, which originates in coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi in Karnataka and is firmly rooted in Tulunadu’s local culture, boasts a unique blend of history and enthusiasm. The festival is dedicated to the Kadri Manjunath incarnation of Lord Shiva.

The preparations for the grand race are going on in full swing with participants washing and taking trial runs of their two sets of buffaloes. Around 200 pairs of buffaloes, along with their owners, are expected to arrive in Bengaluru today from the coastal areas.

Around four to eight lakh people are anticipated to attend the mega event showcasing the local tradition and devotion towards Mahadev. The Bengaluru Kambala debut will be distinguished by the thorough preparation of enormous galleries, a special pooja, and a record-breaking 155-meter track, assuring a one-of-a-kind show. The main stage at the Palace Grounds has been named after the late Kannada actor Puneeth Raj Kumar.

Several celebrities have been invited to attend the event including actresses Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Shilpa Shetty, Anushka Shetty, and Kannada star Darshan among others. Notably, V. Manohar’s “Bengaluru Kambala -Namma Kambala” theme song, with music by Gurukiran, had recently been released.

Meanwhile, a traffic advisory has been issued by the authorities. The Bengaluru Traffic Police Department has issued an advisory asking commuters to avoid specific roads and take alternate routes. The police said that parking will be provided at Krishna Vihar (Gate No-1) and Tripuravasini (Gate No-2) of Palace Grounds. In addition, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has also advised passengers to plan their travel and commute on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday so that they have enough time to go to the airport. Passengers were also advised to check with airlines for alerts and updates.

Earlier, it was reportedly claimed that there would be an entry fee. However, Muralidhar Rai Matanthabettu, Working President of the Bangalore Carpet Committee, stressed that there will be no entry fee or advance ticket purchases required for spectators. All the devotees and spectators are welcome to attend.

“It has come to our attention that some claim there is an entry fee for Bengaluru Kambala viewing, and that advance ticket booking is required.” However, this is different. This is not something that people should believe. I’d like to emphasise that there is no ticket or entry charge for Bengaluru Kambala. “All fans and spectators will be welcome,” Muralidhar Rai Matanthabettu informed Udayavani.

Kambala Bengaluru brings political rivals together

On Thursday, BJP leader Umesh Shetty and Congress MLA from Puttur Ashok Kumar Rai joined forces to organise Kambala in a rare display of camaraderie. According to reports, both have been involved in the preparations for the mega event of the Hindu festival. Notably, Umesh Shetty is the organising president of the Bengaluru Kambala Committee while Congress leader Ashok Kumar Rai is the president of the committee. Both the leaders said that although they have ideological differences, however, for the centuries-old tradition they have come together.

Kambala race

Kambala is an ancient celebration in coastal Karnataka devoted to Lord Kadri Manjunatha, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Every year, following the paddy harvest, the villagers hold a festival to express their gratitude to the almighty for a good harvest.

As is known, Buffaloes are a vital component of farming life, so villagers have long held buffalo races during this festival, believing that the sport will provide buffaloes with continued health. There are many different beliefs and accounts of how the races began. It was a type of leisure or recreational sport for the farming community, according to popular tradition. The winner of the buffalo race received a coconut and other prizes.

Image via IndiaTours

It is also stated that the Kings of the Hoysala dynasty began the ritual for their own amusement and to see if buffaloes could be trained and used in battle. The feudal lords of those regions carried on the custom, which still continues now.

Every year, about 45 villages in coastal Karnataka celebrate the Kambála race in the months of November and March. On the two parallel race courses, two teams of buffaloes and their jockeys race to the finish line. The race continues for all day, and the winners advance to the next round. Apart from crossing the finish line first, awards are also awarded for splashing water high enough to reach the target (Kolu) set above.

It is also worth noting that the Supreme Court of India earlier banned Kambala after multiple petitions were filed against animal cruelty during the race. However, as a traditional sport, the Kambala festival was re-legalized in 2017 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance. The Supreme Court upheld the law allowing Kambala and Jallikattu in May of this year.

Israeli Embassy writes to Indian govt protesting against Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut justifying Hitler’s Holocaust of Jews

OpIndia Staff
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Israeli Embassy writes to Indian govt protesting against Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut justifying Hitler’s Holocaust of Jews

The External Affairs Ministry and Speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla have received an emphatic letter from the Israeli Embassy expressing their concerns and registering protest against Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) leader Sanjay Raut’s anti-Semitic statement on the social media site X. The recent development was reported by The Print.

According to diplomatic sources, the embassy wanted the Rajya Sabha MP to know how his remarks had harmed a nation that has consistently supported India. “Why did Hitler hate the Jewish community so much? Is this understandable now,” was how the Uddhav Sena leader reacted to an article on the “dire condition” in a Gaza hospital on 14 November.

The politician deleted the abhorrent post later after it was widely criticised, however, it had already received over 293,000 views by the time Israeli authorities grabbed its screenshot. They sent a mail to the Indian authorities along with a picture of the comments. According to accounts, the Israelis in the letter were appalled to learn that an Indian member of parliament was engaging in “anti-Semitism” of a kind that had never been witnessed in the country.

Sanjay Raut had reacted on a tweet that claimed, “Premature babies are screaming in Al-Shifa hospital. the power to the incubator in which they were kept has been cut off by Israel. Armed forces have surrounded the hospital from all sides. No food items, milk, or water are allowed inside the hospital.” There was also a video that was alleged to be from the hospital.

Sanjay Raut made the implication that Adolf Hitler slaughtered Jews during the Holocaust because they committed such alleged acts earlier. He defended the extermination of Jews during the Second World War. More than 60 lakh Jews perished in the ethnic cleansing where they were put to death by being locked in gas chambers. However, he removed the tweet after severe backlash from netizens.

Raut has spoken out a great deal on the Israel-Hamas war since it started on 7 October after Hamas attacked Israel, killed over 1200 of its citizens and abducted hundreds to keep them as hostages. He compared the Bharatiya Janata Party to the terror outfit last month. He then claimed that India was backing Israel as it provided the Narendra Modi administration with the Pegasus “snooping” program.

  

‘Do not do this exhibition’: UP minister’s PR stunt of thrusting a cheque to martyred soldier’s wailing mother sparks outrage

OpIndia Staff
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‘Do not do this exhibition’: UP minister’s PR stunt of thrusting a cheque to martyred soldier’s wailing mother sparks outrage

UP minister Yogendra Upadhyay’s insensitive gesture on Friday to thrust a recompensation cheque to a martyred soldier’s sobbing mother even as she asked to desist from such a “public display” sparked massive outrage on social media, with netizens slamming the lawmaker for using the unfortunate incident as a photo-op opportunity.

In a video posted on social media, Captain Shubham Gupta’s mother can be heard urging, “pradarshani mat lagao” (don’t display this exhibition), as Uttar Pradesh Minister Yogendra Upadhyay tries to present her with a cheque. Despite her plea, the minister and accompanying individuals persisted in capturing photographs.

Journalist Aditya Raj Kaul took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share the minister’s callous PR stunt. “Heartless Minister. Captain Shubham Gupta of 9 Para Special Forces was killed in action fighting terrorists. Body hasn’t yet reached Agra for last rites. Yet UP Minister mocks family with a Photo-op. Mother screams: प्रदर्शनी मत लगवाओ, मेरा शुभम लौटा दो..” Kaul tweeted along with the video.

India Today journalist Shiv Aroor also condemned the politician for his urge to seek publicity over the martyrdom of an Indian braveheart. “Sickened by soulless U.P. minister Yogendra Upadhyay. The wailing mother of Capt. Shubham Gupta cries “Ye pradarshan mat lagao” (“don’t do this public display”) as he thrusts a cheque into her hands for a photo op. Disgusting,” tweeted Aroor in addition to sharing an India Today report on the incident.

As the video started gaining traction, a raft of social media users weighed in on with their opinions on the minister’s urge to gain publicity at the expense of a slain soldier’s wailing mother.

‘The need for photo-ops is replacing genuine empathy in politics,” tweeted a popular X user who goes by the handle @theskindoctor13, known for his sarcastic and witty takes on current happenings.

Ankit Jain, a social media user, commented on the video saying the minister should apologise.

Several others expressed their anger and annoyance with the minister for being insensitive and inconsiderate towards the loss of the martyred soldier’s mother.

Captain Shubham Gupta, hailing from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, was among the five army personnel who lost their lives in a two-day encounter with terrorists in Rajauri, Jammu and Kashmir.

Captain Gupta, the son of a government lawyer, enlisted in the Army in 2015 and received a commission into the ninth battalion of the elite Parachute regiment, commonly known as the 9 Para SF (Special Forces), in 2018.

The other brave army officials who succumbed in the encounter were Captain MV Pranjal, Havildar Abdul Majid, Lance Naik Sanjay Bisht, and Paratrooper Sachin Laur.

Security forces also eliminated two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, including a high-ranking commander, during the operation.

‘Don’t have to accept Hindenburg report as correct, easy to make allegations, no reason to doubt SEBI’: SC reserves judgment in Adani-Hindenburg case

OpIndia Staff
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‘Don’t have to accept Hindenburg report as correct, easy to make allegations, no reason to doubt SEBI’: SC reserves judgment in Adani-Hindenburg case

The Supreme Court on Friday (24th November) reserved its judgment pertaining to public interest litigations (PILs) seeking a Court-monitored investigation into allegations made against the Adani group by US-based short-selling firm Hindenburg Research. The apex court remarked that it is easy to make allegations against anyone, adding that petitioners should show some responsibility while levelling charges against any party.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra are hearing the petitions seeking a probe in Adani based on the Hindenburg report. The court also criticised the petitioners for questioning the impartiality of the members of the court-appointed expert committee.

When Bhushan referred to reports published by The Guardian and Financial Times alleging that SEBI had not undertaken a proper investigation in the case, CJI said, “Mr Bhushan, I don’t think you can take something written in a newspaper, whether Guardian or Financial Times, to be gospel truth.”

The SC bench, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, rubbished allegations against the SEBI – which is investigating the allegations against Adani — saying that a financial regulator cannot be asked to take something printed in the paper.

“SEBI is a statutory body exclusively entrusted with investigating stock market manipulation. Is it proper for a court without any proper material to say that we don’t trust SEBI and we will form our own SIT? This has to be done with much calibration,” CJI told Advocate Prashant Bhushan.

Appearing for petitioner Anamika Jaiswal, Advocate Prashant Bhushan argued that SEBI’s conduct in the matter was not credible. To this, the CJI responded by saying, “Mr. Bhushan, I do not think you can ask a financial regulator to take something printed in the newspaper.. This does not discredit SEBI.. Should SEBI now follow journalists?”

The court further told the court that it is easy to make allegations and one must be also very careful.

Bhushan also referred to “factual revelations” in the Hindenburg report to which the CJI replied that the Court could not proceed on the assumption that the report was true. “We don’t have to accept the Hindenburg report as ipso facto factually correct. That is why we asked SEBI to investigate…” CJI said.

Bhushan also referred to allegations of conflict of interest made by the petitioner against some expert committee members. He pointed out that OP Bhatt is a chairman of Greenko which has a close partnership with the Adani group. Prashant Bhushan also said that one of the members of the expert committee Somashekhar Sundaresan was a lawyer lawyer representing Adani in various forums including in the SEBI Board.

The CJI dismissed the charge saying that lawyers make appearances in various cases, adding that Sundaresan appeared for Adani 17 years ago and this can’t disqualify him from the committee. “And you cite an appearance made by him (Somasekharan) 17 years ago! There has to be some responsibility about the allegations you make,” the CJI said.

CJI DY Chandrachud further said that if this logic is followed, no lawyer who has appeared for an accused should become a High Court judge.

The court came down heavily on a petition by Congress leader Jaya Thakur seeking enquiry against the State Bank Of India (SBI) and Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) for investments into the Adani group.

The CJI said, “Is this some debate in a college? You are before a court. You realise the consequence of a direction against SBI and LIC? Absolutely no material by you and you are alleging this. Surely there must be some responsibility.”

Meanwhile, the CJI told SEBI that it must take steps to protect the stock market from volatility caused by short-selling and similar instances. The court said that it had intervened in the matter due to the extreme volatility of the stock market and sought to know what is SEBI planning to do for such kind of volatility and planning to protect investors in cases like short selling.

When asked by the apex court what steps SEBI is taking in this direction, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that these are larger issues which SEBI is considering. In terms of the recommendations made by the expert committee, the SG said that SEBI will make room for changes where possible.

He informed the court that the agency is not seeking any extension of time for the ongoing investigation into the Adani-Hindenburg case. “There were 24 cases identified for investigation of which 22 have been completed,” the SG submitted. For the remaining two cases, the agency said that it needs information from foreign regulators.

SG Tushar Mehta also took the court through the recommendations of the Expert Committee which SEBI has agreed with in principle.

He said that there is a growing tendency to plant stories outside India to influence decisions within India, urging the Supreme Court to stop such allegations.

In January this year, Hindenburg Research accused the Adani Group of fraud and stock price manipulation. The charges were denied by Gautam Adani who claimed in July that no regulatory failure was found by the expert committee which was constituted by the Supreme Court.

Indian origin doctor who co-founded Hindu American Foundation in 2003 commits $4 million for Hindu advocacy in the USA

OpIndia Staff
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Indian origin doctor who co-founded Hindu American Foundation in 2003 commits $4 million for Hindu advocacy in the USA

Dr Mihir Meghani, an emergency care physician, has recently committed $4 million to support Hindu advocacy and awareness initiatives in the United States. Dr Mihir Meghani – a distinguished Indian-American physician, alongside his associates – had established the Hindu America Foundation twenty years ago.

He has pledged an additional $1.5 million over the next eight years, bringing his total contributions to the cause to $4 million over the past two decades. Dr Meghani’s announcement potentially positions him as the most significant Indian-American contributor to the Hindu cause in the United States.

In a media interaction, he said, “My wife, Tanvi and I, have contributed $1.5 million to the Hindu American Foundation thus far. We’ve also contributed a million dollars more over the last 15 years to other Hindu and Indian organisations and causes. Over the next eight years, we’re making a pledge of $1.5 million to pro-India and Hindu organisations.”

He added, “I say this to all of you who are viewing this to realise that I don’t have a startup company. I don’t have any side businesses. I’m an emergency doctor on a salary. My wife is a fitness instructor and a jewellery designer. We’re not making millions of dollars a year. We don’t have stock options. We’re doing this because it’s our Dharma, it’s our duty.”

Dr Meghani expressed that Hinduism might be challenging for many Americans to grasp fully, given the predominant Christian context in the country. He emphasised that Hinduism extends beyond being merely a religion; instead, it encompasses a profound way of life.

He said, “They come from an Abrahamic background. When they look at different religions, they can’t understand that Hinduism is not just a religion, it’s a way of life. It’s a way of thinking about life.”

He further said, “Hindus who are coming from India don’t quite understand that they have a Hindu identity and an Indian national identity. We need to talk about that.”

Dr Mihir Meghani said, “What we need are Hindus to be strong in the Bharatiya or Indian identity, which is the political identity for our civilisation, but also they should be very proud and open about their Hindu identity. And when they have that, their coworkers, their friends, and neighbours will understand us better.”

One of HAF’s initial triumphs in Washington, DC, according to Dr Mihir Meghani, was the successful effort to secure recognition for Diwali in the United States. He mentioned, “Now you can see that Diwali is celebrated at the White House, with the Vice President, in the US Congress and all across different state and local governments across the country. But it took time to get there.”

Hindu American Foundation established by Dr Mihir Meghani and others

Notably, fresh out of university, Dr Meghani, along with three companions Aseem Shukla, an associate professor in urologic surgery; Suhag Shukla, an attorney; and Nikhil Joshi, a labour law attorney jointly established the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) in September 2003. This marked the inception of the first-of-its-kind Hindu advocacy group in the United States.

From its early years, when it relied entirely on volunteerism, the Hindu American Foundation has evolved to boast an annual budget of $2.5 million, supported by a dedicated team of full-time staff. The foundation aims to double its budget to $5 million next year and ambitiously reach $20 million by the close of the decade.

Uttarkashi tunnel rescue resumes after glitch in drilling machine, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says operation is in final stage

ANI
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Uttarkashi tunnel rescue resumes after glitch in drilling machine, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says operation is in final stage

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday said that the rescue operation to extricate 41 workers trapped in a portion of the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi, which collapsed over a week ago, is “in its final stage,” adding that both the central and state government agencies are working together.

CM Dhami said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking all the updates regarding the rescue operation being carried out at the Silkyara tunnel.

“The rescue operation is in its last stage. PM Modi is taking all the updates about the difficulties that workers might face and discussing the solutions. Both the central and state government agencies are working together for the rescue operation. We hope that soon this operation will be completed and all the workers will come out,” CM Dhami said.

Earlier in the day, Additional Secretary Technical, Road and Transport Mahmood Ahmed said that the auger drilling machine, which developed some cracks on Thursday, has been reassembled and they hope to push the pipe further this time with no obstacles.

“The auger drilling machine has been reassembled. A new pipe will be put in after the welding, which will take two hours. After two hours, we will push the pipe inside the tunnel. We hope that we push the pipe further this time and will face no obstacles,” Additional Secretary Ahmed said.

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government said that the auger machine had to be disassembled due to steel pipes coming in front of it and the pipe being inserted inside getting bent. Due to this, the auger machine was damaged, but it has been repaired.

The rescue work continues as a portion of the under-construction tunnel from Silkyara to Barkot collapsed on November 12. The debris falling in the 60-metre stretch on the Silkyara side of the tunnel trapped 41 labourers inside.

When asked about the total length of the pipe that has been inserted to rescue the workers, Additional Secretary Ahmed said that two more pipes of 6 metres each have to be inserted to get a breakthrough.

“Two more pipes of 6 metres each have to be inserted. The first 6 metres, which reach 51-52 metres, with the next 6 meter-long pipe, we hope to breakthrough,” he said.

“This is our own estimation and understanding. These estimations are based on certain realities but they are all assumptions and not to be taken exactly, but we hope to be there someway,” he added.

Earlier, Bhaskar Khulbe, a former advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), said a 2-metre part of the inserted pipe had to be cut off as it got compressed due to friction while drilling. This happened after the auger heavy-duty driller encountered an obstruction and exerted more pressure on Thursday, he informed.

Speaking to ANI on Friday morning, Khulbe said the platform on which the Augur drilling machine was mounted developed some cracks on Thursday. However, the cracks have been repaired since informed.

The platform developed some cracks while the rescue operation was underway on Thursday and the process of horizontal drilling through the debris had to be halted as a result.

“Last night, we had to revamp the platform on which the machine is mounted. However, Parsons Company operated a ground penetration radar, which told us that there was no metallic obstruction for the next 5 metres (inside the tunnel). This means that our drilling, once it resumes, should be smooth. When we were removing the debris, we came upon two mangled pipes,” Khulbe said, adding that the trapped workers may be extricated by Friday.

The workers are trapped in a 2 km-built portion, which is complete, including concrete work that provides them safety.

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

Union Health Ministry closely monitoring outbreak of avian influenza and respiratory illness in China, says low risk to India

OpIndia Staff
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Union Health Ministry closely monitoring outbreak of avian influenza and respiratory illness in China, says low risk to India

The Union Health Ministry has announced that it is closely monitoring the outbreak of reported outbreak of H9N2 cases and clusters of respiratory illness in children in northern China.

The ministry stated in a press release that there is low risk to India from both the avian influenza cases reported from China and the clusters of respiratory illness.

“Some media reports have indicated clustering of cases of respiratory illness in children in northern China for which WHO has also issued a statement,” the press release read.

China has reported a rise in cases of respiratory illnesses in the last few weeks. “The usual causes of respiratory illness in children have been implicated and there has been no identification of an unusual pathogen or any unexpected clinical manifestations,” the health ministry stated.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) recently chaired a meeting to discuss the preparedness measures against human cases of Avian Influenza in the country against the backdrop of a human case of H9N2 (Avian influenza virus) in October 2023 in China that was reported to WHO.

According to the Ministry of Health, the overall risk assessment by WHO indicates a low probability of human-to-human spread and low case fatality rate among human cases of H9N2 reported to WHO so far.

“The need for strengthening surveillance among human, animal husbandry and wildlife sectors and improving coordination was recognised,” the ministry stated.

The Health Ministry assured that India is prepared for any kind of public health exigency especially with the significant strengthening of health infrastructure, since the COVID pandemic.

“PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) was launched by the Prime Minister which is developing capacities of health systems and institutions across the continuum of care at all levels, primary, secondary and tertiary, to prepare health systems to respond effectively to the current and future pandemics /disasters.”

The ministry stated, “In addition, India’s surveillance and detection networks under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) have rich experience in dealing with challenging health situations during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

What is H9N2?

H9N2 is reportedly a subtype of the avian influenza A virus infection which causes human influenza and bird flu as well. The virus is found in birds and poultry too. According to WHO, the influenza A viruses can cause global pandemics.

Symptoms of the virus can range from mild flu, eye inflammation to severe or acute respiratory disease and/or death. In rare cases, gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms have also been reported.

In January 2020, India recorded its first H9N2 case in a 17-month-old boy in Maharashtra.

What has the World Health Organisation said?

On 22nd November, the World Health Organisation urged China for detailed information on an increase in respiratory illnesses and reported clusters of pneumonia in children.

On 13th November, Chinese authorities from the National Health Commission reported an increase in the incidence of respiratory diseases in China.

According to WHO, Chinese authorities attributed this increase to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia (a common bacterial infection that typically affects younger children), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).

Authorities stressed the need for enhanced disease surveillance in healthcare facilities and community settings, as well as strengthening the capacity of the health system to manage patients.

On 21st November, clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia were reported in children in northern China. “It is unclear if these are associated with the overall increase in respiratory infections previously reported by Chinese authorities or separate events,” the WHO said.

The WHO has sought additional epidemiological and clinical information as well as laboratory results from these reported clusters among children. “We have also requested further information about recent trends in the circulation of known pathogens including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV and mycoplasma pneumonia, and the current burden on health care systems,” the WHO stated.

On 23rd November, however, WHO said that China has reported no “unusual or novel pathogens” in respiratory illnesses spreading in the north of the country.

The global health body said that since mid-October, northern China has reported an increase in influenza-like illness compared to the same period in the last three years.

Pro-monarchy protests erupt in Nepal, police use water canons and tear gas; read how this demand emerged in the once-Hindu nation

Gopal Tiwari
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Pro-monarchy protests erupt in Nepal, police use water canons and tear gas; read how this demand emerged in the once-Hindu nation

On Thursday (23rd November), thousands of Nepals took to the streets, demanding the restoration of the Hindu monarchy. Subsequently, law enforcement resorted to deploying water cannons and tear gas to scatter supporters of businessman Durga Prasai, as per reports.

The situation required the firing of numerous rounds of tear gas for control. The police reported that the gathering made an attempt to breach the designated demonstration area.

Pro-monarchy protests in Nepal. Image Source: The Indian Express

It is noteworthy that a prominent businessman named Durga Prasai, has been mobilising people through his ‘Nation, Nationality, Religion-Culture, and Citizen Rescue Campaign.’ Prasai advocates for the improvement of Nepal, calling for the dissolution of the current government and the restoration of the monarchy, along with the re-establishment of the Hindu Kingdom, as it was till 2006.

The police have levelled accusations against Prasai, alleging that he incited the crowd. Following Prasai’s departure from the scene after addressing the protest at Balkhu, protesters purportedly hurled stones at security personnel. Earlier in the day, there was a clash between members of CPN-UML’s youth wing and Prasai’s supporters during a protest in Kathmandu’s Balkhu area.

Water canons deployed to disperse the protestors. Image Source: Goshen News

CPN-UML stands for the Communist Party of Nepal – Unified Marxist-Leninist. It is a political party in Nepal that follows a Marxist-Leninist ideology. Upon the arrival of UML cadres during a motorcycle rally, Prasai’s supporters reportedly threw stones, causing damage to both vehicles used by demonstrators and those parked along the roadside.

This week, the Kathmandu district administration imposed a month-long prohibition on protests along the Maitighar to Baneshwar road section, as both factions planned demonstrations in the same areas. They were directed to conduct their protests outside the Ring Road. Following suit, the Lalitpur district administration also declared specific areas off-limits for protests over a three-month period.

Nepal was the only Hindu nation before abolishing the Hindu monarchy

Nepal held a unique position as the sole Hindu nation before the historic decision to abolish the Hindu monarchy. For centuries, the country’s identity was deeply intertwined with Hinduism, and the monarchy played a central role in upholding and preserving this cultural and religious heritage. The formal abolition in 2008 marked a profound shift, not only in Nepal’s political structure but also in its status as a Hindu state. This significant departure from tradition was influenced by China and leftist ideology.

In the early 21st century, Nepal witnessed a seismic shift in its political landscape, culminating in the abolition of the Hindu monarchy. The Maoist insurgency, rooted in Marxist-Leninist ideology and influenced by China-backed Maoist principles, sought to replace the constitutional monarchy with a People’s Republic.

After years of conflict, a peace agreement between the Maoists and the government was reached in 2006, setting the stage for the formal abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of Nepal as a federal democratic republic in 2008. This transition marked the end of the centuries-old Shah dynasty’s rule and reflected a move towards democratic governance.

Influence of China and leftist ideology on the new regime

China’s influence played a role in shaping Nepal’s political trajectory, as it supported leftist ideologies aligned with its interests. The geopolitical dynamics in the region contributed to the realignment of Nepal’s political identity, with China-backed leftists driving significant changes.

The abolition of the monarchy symbolized a complex interplay of domestic political forces and regional influences, highlighting the evolving geopolitical landscape in South Asia. The events leading to this transformation underscored the impact of China-backed ideologies on Nepal’s political evolution, ultimately reshaping the country’s governance structure.

The most noted impact of this policy was increasing the distance between Kathmandu and Delhi. India being a Hindu-majority neighbour of Nepal had historically been a natural ally; but during the years of China’s influence, the diplomatic ties hit a historic low. Narendra Modi chose Nepal as the first nation to visit after assuming the Prime Ministerial responsibilities in 2014. Since then, the relations between the two countries are continuously improving.

Now, a considerable number of people in Nepal want the Hindu monarchy back

The shift away from Nepal’s Hindu monarchy and the rise of left-leaning ideologies has left the Nepalis discontented, with many expressing a desire for the reinstatement of the Hindu monarchy. the former King of Nepal, Gyanendra Shah has also joined the campaign with this demand. The embrace of leftist principles has resulted in the erosion of Nepal’s cultural heritage and traditional identity, the protesters believe. The monarchy served as a unifying force, preserving the nation’s rich Hindu practices and providing a bedrock for the Dharmik way of life. The removal of the monarchy has led to an unnecessary dilution of these cultural elements, contributing to a sense of disconnect among the people of Nepal, the pro-monarchy voices have stated.

Gyanendra Shah joined campaign to make Nepal Hindu state again
Former King of Nepal Gyanendra Shah (Image: The New Indian Express)

Supporters of the Hindu monarchy believe that reinstating the monarchy would not only safeguard Nepal’s cultural and religious traditions but also contribute to the overall well-being of the country. Advocates argue that a constitutional monarchy, firmly rooted in Hindu principles, could play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance between modernisation and the preservation of Nepal’s unique heritage, offering a pathway to progress that aligns with the nation’s historical values.

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