Home Blog Page 670

The geopolitics of Starlink: What Elon Musk’s satellite internet would mean for India and Indian telecom players like Jio and AirTel

Anurag
-
0
The geopolitics of Starlink: What Elon Musk’s satellite internet would mean for India and Indian telecom players like Jio and AirTel

Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is trying to launch in India. However, the Starlink’s India entry has raised a set of complex geopolitical, technological, and economic questions for the telecommunications sector in the country. Recently, the Government of India decided to offer spectrum allocation via an administrative pathway instead of opting for an auction.

The decision came after Elon Musk raised objections over the auction format. The government’s decision was met with mixed reactions from local operators, with some expressing displeasure over it. The emergence of Starlink in India may have a transformative impact on connectivity, especially in remote and rural regions. However, there are concerns that it could disrupt the existing telco landscape of the country.

Furthermore, there are speculations that Starlink’s pricing may not be affordable to the majority of consumers. If this is the case, the initiative may be limited to a select group of people who can pay a higher price for internet in India. Currently, high-speed internet with a minimum speed of 100 Mbps is available for only Rs 600 excluding taxes in India. Anything higher may not attract consumers to Starlink unless no other connectivity option is available.

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, a company owned by Elon Musk. Starlink is different from conventional broadband, which relies on underground cables and cell towers. Starlink uses low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-speed internet directly from space. According to its website, each LEO satellite orbits closer to Earth, offering faster speeds and lower latency than traditional geostationary satellites used in earlier satellite broadband models. Starlink’s technology aims to serve hard-to-reach or underserved areas, potentially providing reliable internet on a remote island, a mountain, or even while travelling at high altitudes.

To access the internet using Starlink, consumers will need to buy a basic kit that includes a satellite dish and router. Once installed, the dish will connect to the Starlink satellite network and distribute the internet through the Wi-Fi router.

Impact on India’s existing internet services

Fundamentally, Starlink’s entry into the Indian telecom sector with its high-speed satellite internet has the potential to reshape the dynamics of internet services in the country. Major telecom providers, including Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, have heavily invested in 5G infrastructure and are pushing fixed wireless access (FWA) services across cities and towns. According to Indian telecom companies, satellite internet, which also provides broadband services, should be subject to the same spectrum allocation process as terrestrial broadband.

In the current system in India, terrestrial broadband providers pay substantial amounts in competitive auctions for spectrum rights. The expected cost would be significantly lower if Starlink receives spectrum allocation via an administrative route. Indian telecom sector players have raised concerns that Starlink may acquire spectrum at a lower cost, leading to lower service prices compared to current offerings, thereby raising fears of a non-level playing field.

Examples from African countries like Kenya should be considered in India’s context, where Starlink’s low-cost services pressured local telecom firms, sparking demands for foreign satellite providers to partner with local operators. Indian telecom leaders such as Sunil Mittal of Bharti Airtel and Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Jio have formed a rare alliance on this issue, both advocating for an auction-based approach to satellite spectrum allocation.

Notably, the economic stakes are very high for telecom companies, which have collectively paid over Rs 4.8 trillion for terrestrial spectrum over the past decade. These funds have helped extend 5G services nationwide. These operators contend that Starlink could threaten revenue, particularly in urban markets where Jio and Airtel see growth opportunities through FWA, powered by 5G.

A global satellite spectrum dilemma – Brazil and the ‘administrative’ allocation debate

It should be noted that the administrative allocation approach, particularly for shared spectrum over 7-8 GHz, is largely a standard worldwide practice. Several countries, including the United States, Mexico, and Brazil, have experimented with auctioning satellite spectrum. However, they found it difficult to price and implement an auction model for non-terrestrial allocations. Brazil’s experience sheds light on the risks of regulatory conflict in the satellite internet sector.

In Brazil, Musk’s Starlink project became embroiled in conflict with President Lula da Silva’s government regarding Starlink’s role in providing internet for remote regions within the Amazon, where the service was accused of facilitating illegal mining activities by its users. This controversy highlighted the potential socio-political and environmental consequences of high-reach satellite internet, underscoring the challenges of managing foreign-owned, high-capacity internet providers within national borders.

The competitive landscape – India’s need for Starlink or local innovation?

While it is essential to consider what Starlink has to offer and its potential impact on the Indian telecom industry, the crucial question remains: does India need Starlink, or can local providers bridge the connectivity gap? In recent years, the digital divide has significantly narrowed. Over 96% of India’s villages are already covered by 4G or 5G mobile broadband services, with the remaining unconnected areas targeted for coverage through public funding and state-led initiatives. This achievement reflects the role of India’s Universal Service Obligation (USO) fund and government efforts to bring mobile internet to even the remotest parts of the country.

However, as many industry experts have observed, India’s connectivity issue is no longer a matter of geographical reach but of affordability and digital literacy. While urban India races toward 5G adoption, rural regions lag in device access, digital literacy, and use cases, which arguably pose more significant barriers to internet penetration than coverage alone.

Despite the gaps within the telecom sector, domestic providers in India, led by Jio and Airtel, have already amassed over three million fixed wireless access (FWA) subscribers across nearly 1,700 cities, a number expected to grow to 85-100 million by 2030.

The road ahead – balancing innovation, competition, and sovereignty

The ability of Musk’s Starlink to service the vast and varied geography of India appears advantageous. However, the decision to use an administrative allocation method for spectrum raises broader questions about balancing foreign competition with national interests. India has specific security concerns over data sovereignty and network control, prompting mandates for local data termination and strict KYC regulations for Starlink users. The telecom ministry’s current guidelines stipulate that data from Starlink’s satellites over Indian airspace must terminate in India, not on foreign shores, to prevent potential security risks.

Notably, the Ministry of Home Affairs is vetting the security issues that have delayed the decision to grant in-principle approval for Starlink to start its operations in India. The final licensing decision is expected soon, but it has been in “expecting soon” mode for a couple of years now.

If Starlink is permitted to launch, Musk’s promise of a high-speed satellite network could offer connectivity solutions in under-served regions. However, pricing challenges remain. Historically, Starlink’s monthly subscription costs and equipment fees have been far higher than those of Jio and Airtel. Recent reductions in Starlink’s prices in other countries, such as Kenya, indicate Musk’s awareness of the need for affordability in emerging markets. Attention will be on Starlink’s pricing to see if Musk truly intends to serve the unserved and marginalised, or if the company will target those who can afford to pay a premium for a monthly Starlink subscription.

Conclusion

The potential entry of Starlink into the Indian telecom market could be a pivotal moment in the geopolitics of digital connectivity. On one hand, Indian telecom companies have raised concerns about Starlink’s entry, citing fairness in spectrum allocation. On the other, the government seems to lean towards global norms of administrative allocation, citing shared high-frequency bands as impractical for auction-based pricing.

In the coming months, it will be determined if Elon Musk-owned Starlink will be able to enter India under competitive terms, potentially redefining rural and urban internet landscapes and testing India’s resolve in navigating the geopolitics of tech infrastructure and data sovereignty.

Liberal MP Parm Bains, who accused India of ‘foreign interference’ exposed as CCP collaborator: Read how China compromised federal elections in Canada

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Liberal MP Parm Bains, who accused India of ‘foreign interference’ exposed as CCP collaborator: Read how China compromised federal elections in Canada

Amid ongoing diplomatic tension between India and Canada, a prominent ‘Liberal Party’ MP named Parm Bains has been publicly exposed as a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) collaborator.

Popular Canadian investigative journalist Sam Cooper made the revelations during a press conference on Monday (28th October).

He informed that journalists associated with a group dubbed ‘Canada Committee 100 Society’ had supported Parm Bains’s candidature for the 2021 federal elections.

“Bains had told these journalists he opposed Kenny Chiu’s foreign agent registry bill, describing it as an exclusionary policy,” Sam Cooper emphasised.

The ‘Canada Committee 100 Society’ is closely connected to the Chinese United Front Overseas Leaders Group, the Chinese government’s arm for overseas influence.

Liberal senator Yuen Pau Woo had a private meeting with members of the group (a recording of which was accessed by Sam Cooper) in 2020. Woo made it clear that he was against targeting Chinese groups peddling influence and interfering in Canadian elections.

Multiple Liberal Party leaders working as Chinese Communist Party collaborators

“He repeatedly filed submissions undermining Canadian intelligence and using Chinese intelligence talking points,” Sam Cooper pointed out.

“My confidence that he appeared to act for Beijing was bolstered by information from a person (Confidential Source 1), who confirmed that Senator Wu, appointed by Justin Trudeau, was under CSIS investigation,” he added.

The investigative journalist also informed that a staffer of Liberal Party MP Mary Ng met a ‘Chinese intelligence actor’ named Zhou Wei, a Toronto consulate diplomat.

Sam Cooper stated, “According to one source, we believe Zhou Wei worked with political staffers to provide information on meetings of elected officials and their whereabouts. We know staff have direction to report privately to the consulate on Mary Ng.”

Parm Bains alleged foreign interference by India in Canada

Liberal Party MP from Steveston—Richmond East constituency, Parm Bains, has been outed as a collaborator of the Chinese Communist Party along with 2 other party leaders.

Just a week ago, he was seen accusing Indian diplomats (without any hard evidence) of carrying out ‘foreign interference’ in Canada.

Bains claimed, “Last Monday, the RCMP made public their findings that the Indian government diplomats have been engaged in serious criminal activities in Canada.”

He further alleged, “They are covert, deceptive, illegal, and threaten all levels of government – the private sector, academia, diaspora communities, and the general public.” 

Up to 30 arrests have already been made, and our public safety agencies will not stop working. We will not be intimidated, we will not be harassed, and we will have justice and answers for the flagrant disregard of Canadians, as well as international law,” the Liberal Party MP continued his rant.

Previously, he had claimed that a former Indian army official expressed ‘interest’ in spending $100 million to elect a Conservative government.

While Parm Bains had accused India of foreign interference, it is he who has been working for Chinese interests as an MP in Canada.

Chinese interference in Canadian elections

On November 7, 2022, Canadian media outlet Global News published an article alleging that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) had briefed Justin Trudeau about covert funding to 11 federal candidates in the 2019 elections.

“The Chinese Communist Party…is using all elements of state power to carry out activities that are a direct threat to our national security and sovereignty,” CSIS told Global News.

The news outlet further informed that the candidates who received funding from CCP belonged to both the ruling Liberal Party and the Opposition Conservative Party.

Screengrab of the article by Global News

Earlier in 2011, a Conservative MP named Bob Dechert came under the scanner over his relationship with a Xinhua News reporter, Shi Rong. A former Chinese spy Li Fengzhi informed that the “act of striking up a relationship with an elected official fits the modus operandi of Chinese spies”.

It is also believed that the interference of the Chinese deep State in the federal elections of 2021 led to the defeat of the Conservative camp. An analysis by Rapid Response Mechanism Canada found that CCP supporters floated conspiracy theories that Canada would cut all ties to China if Conservatives are elected to power.

In this way, it deterred several Canadians from voting for the party. Moreover, Conservative candidate Kenny Chiu, who had been critical of China’s policies and proposed a Foreign Influence Registry Act (to publicly identify those acting on foreign interests), became the target of a disinformation campaign.

CCP bots created a narrative on Chinese social media platforms, namely, Weibo and WeChat, that Chiu is supposedly against China. This cost him his MP seat as half of the electorates in his constituency comprised of Chinese Canadians.

According to The Diplomat, the ‘China factor’ contributed to the defeat of the Conservative Party leader Chiu against Parm Bains. The Libera

“While the three major political parties mentioned standing up against authoritarianism and China in their campaign platforms, the Conservatives had more proposals against China,” The Diplomat reported.

“Those messages did not work well among suburban voters, particularly among voters of Chinese descent,” the news outlet added while highlighting plans of Conservative leader Erin O’Toole to sanction Chinese President, the chairman of the Standing Committee of the National Party Congress among many others.

This led to the loss of Conservatives in the Richmond Centre and Markham Unionville electoral districts, where people of Chinese descent constitute 60% of the population. Parm Bains, however, claims that he won ‘fair and square’ without the help of the CCP intelligentsia.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlights problem of illegals in Jharkhand, asks removal of infiltrators from ‘Santhal Pargana’

ANI
-
0
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlights problem of illegals in Jharkhand, asks removal of infiltrators from ‘Santhal Pargana’

Assam CM and BJP co-in-charge of the Jharkhand election, Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday accused the Hemant Soren led state government of letting “intruders” enter the state and said that the main priority is to throw out infiltrators from Santhal Paragana.

He stated that in the Santhal Pargana, the tribal population is decreasing and the Muslim population is increasing.

“…I ignite fire against infiltrators. Lord Hanuman had also set fire in Lanka. We have to set fire against infiltrators and make Jharkhand a golden land. In Santhal Pargana, the tribal population is decreasing and the Muslim population is increasing. Not every Muslim is an infiltrator but how is the population of Muslims increasing every 5 years? Is a family giving birth to 10-12 children? If families are not giving birth to so many children, then definitely people are coming from outside. This is simple mathematics. We will win the elections but that is not the main priority, it is to throw out infiltrators from Santhal Paragana and justice for women…,” he said.

Earlier, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey alleged that that neither the Congress nor the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha are concerned about the tribals due to vote bank politics.

He also said that Bangladeshi infiltrators are behind the 11 per cent rise in the Muslim population in Santhal Pargana and added that the Bharatiya Janata Party will not sit peacefully until Bangladeshi infiltrators are sent back.

Speaking to ANI, Nishikant Dubey said, “In 1951, the population of Muslims was 9 per cent, today it is 24 per cent. Throughout the country, Muslims have increased by 4 per cent and in our Santhal Pargana, it has increased by 15 per cent, these 11 per cent are Bangladeshi infiltrators and the government of Jharkhand is accepting this. Due to vote-bank politics, neither the Congress nor the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha are concerned about the tribals. Until Bangladeshi infiltrators are sent back, the Bharatiya Janata Party will not sit peacefully, this is not the issue of the election, this is the national issue.”

Elections are being held on 81 seats of the Jharkhand assembly in two phases on November 13 and November 20. A total of 2.60 crore voters are eligible to cast votes in Jharkhand and there are 1.31 crore male and 1.29 crore female voters. The state has 11.84 lakh first-time voters and there are 66.84 lakh young voters.

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

Give soldiers, irrespective of religion, rights in Waqf Property: Uttarakhand Waqf Board

ANI
-
0
Give soldiers, irrespective of religion, rights in Waqf Property: Uttarakhand Waqf Board

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting on the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, received significant support from the Uttarakhand Waqf Board. Several state waqf boards, including the Punjab Waqf Board, Haryana Waqf Board, and Uttarakhand Waqf Board, attended the meeting to present their views and suggestions to the JPC.

According to sources, representatives from the Uttarakhand Waqf Board made a unique request during their presentation to the committee. They stated that when a soldier fights for the nation, he does so not as a Hindu, Muslim, or any other religion, but as a patriot.

In this spirit, they suggested a legal provision to allocate some benefits from waqf properties to soldiers or their families. This proposal was met with opposition from several MPs of opposition parties.

Opposition MPs raised concerns, pointing out that there is no comparable provision in the Hindu or other religious contexts. In response, the Uttarakhand Waqf Board suggested that rather than drawing parallels with other religions, they could initiate a new standard. During their presentation, the board strongly supported the bill, particularly highlighting its focus on transparency and the inclusion of women.

The Uttarakhand Council already has two women representatives. Regarding disputed properties, the board recommended that the JPC include provisions for thorough inspections and, where necessary, CBI inquiries. This stance elicited sharp responses from some opposition MPs.

Earlier in the day, there was an exchange between BJP and opposition MPs, notably over the summoning of the Delhi Waqf Board before the committee. Sources indicated that opposition MPs alleged that MCD Commissioner and Delhi Waqf Board Administrator, Ashwini Kumar, had substantially altered the original report of the Waqf Board, reportedly without the Chief Minister’s approval, thus calling its validity into question.

Meanwhile, sources suggest that representatives from the Delhi Waqf Council asserted their autonomy and argued that they do not require state government approval or certification. This debate led some opposition MPs to briefly walk out of the meeting before returning. Senior MP Asaduddin Owaisi suggested that the Chairman seek the Lok Sabha Secretary-General’s opinion on any potential legal issues surrounding the Delhi Waqf Board’s presentation to the JPC.

This issue gained further prominence when Delhi’s Chief Minister wrote to Committee Chairman Jagdambika Pal, opposing the summons issued to the Delhi Waqf Board. Sources added that several opposition members did not sign the attendance register upon arrival, with some cancelling their attendance after the initial argument, only to re-sign following further discussions.

After consultation of Secretary General of Lok Sabha, Joint Committee of Parliament has agreed to hear views and suggestions of Delhi Waqf Board without any approval by Delhi Government. The Delhi Waqf Board will record it’s oral evidence before the committee tomorrow.

Representatives of the Haryana Waqf Board and Punjab Waqf Board also provided oral evidence on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, before the JPC.

Additionally, Call for Justice (a group led by Chander Wadhwa, Trustee), the Waqf Tenant Welfare Association, Delhi, and Harbans Dunkall, President of the Residents Welfare Association (All Blocks), B.K. Dutt Colony, New Delhi, shared their views and suggestions with the committee. Sources reported that, in principle, all stakeholders expressed support for the bill.

It is notable that at a previous meeting on October 22, 2024, the committee witnessed a heated exchange between BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay and TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee. During an argument with Gangopadhyay, Banerjee allegedly broke a glass bottle and reportedly threw it at Committee Chairman Jagdambika Pal. These claims have been made by members present.

The JPC’s efforts form part of a broader national initiative to reform the Waqf Act, ensuring waqf properties serve the wider community’s benefit.

The Waqf Act, 1995, originally enacted to regulate waqf properties, has long faced allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and encroachment. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to introduce comprehensive reforms, including digitisation, stricter audits, increased transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties. The JPC is conducting a series of meetings to gather input from government officials, legal experts, waqf board members, and community representatives from various states and Union Territories to ensure a well-rounded reform.

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

Two cases of exploiting Hindu girls from two different states, shocking tales of physical exploitation and forced conversion: Nihal Khan and Aman Khan arrested

OpIndia Staff
-
0
Two cases of exploiting Hindu girls from two different states, shocking tales of physical exploitation and forced conversion: Nihal Khan and Aman Khan arrested

New cases of grooming and love jihad have recently emerged from two different parts of the country. The first matter is from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, where the police have arrested Nihal Khan on charges of kidnapping and raping a minor Hindu girl who was his neighbour.

Nihal Khan had also pressured her to steal gold and silver jewelry, as well as cash, from her house. In a separate incident, Aman Khan has been accused of luring Hindu girls into his trap by posing as Aman Gupta, and exploiting them financially and physically in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The authorities have apprehended him.

The first case pertains to the Babupurva police station from Kanpur. On 14th October (Tuesday), the father of a 17-year-old girl filed a complaint which stated that his daughter was an intermediate student who was often molested by Nihal Khan who lived in the neighbourhood. She then suddenly went missing from her home and the family members couldn’t find her anywhere even after an extensive search. OpIndia has a copy of the First Information Report (FIR).

Gold earrings and other items worth Rs One lakh forty thousand were found missing from the house when they further looked into the matter. The complainant referred to Nihal Khan as the primary accused and demanded strict action against him. The police have filed a case under sections 74, 87 and 137(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

On 26th October, the authorities nabbed him. According to Panchjanya, Nihal Khan has been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act along with other sections including rape and forced conversion. The underage girl has been recovered and returned to her family while he has been sent to jail.

Nihal Khan lured the girl and then forced her to embrace Islam and marry her. He also took away her mobile phone. He confessed to the crime during interrogation. She disclosed to the cops that he introduced himself as Nishant and pushed her to become a Muslim when she learned about his true identity. He did not even allow her to meet or contact her parents.

Love jihad in Indore

The second occurrence of love jihad happened in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore where Mohammad Aman Khan, originally a resident of Chhatarpur, had been living for two years. Hindu Jagran Manch charged that he used to target Hindu girls in Indore by introducing himself as Aman Gupta. According to Rajkumar Tetwal, the district convener of the group. He not only applied tilak and tied kalawa (sacred Hindu thread) on his wrist, but he also used to visit the temple often. He gave his bogus identity when the workers of the Hindu organization caught him from Bhamori upon receiving the information, however, he revealed the truth later.

According to media reports, objectionable photos and videos of many Hindu girls were found when his mobile phone was checked. He had been staying with a Hindu girl in Bajrang Nagar for the last 1 year and her family was not aware of this. There were numerous pictures of him in his apartment that made him appear to be Hindu. The culprit used to go out to hotels to party and liquor bottles were discovered in his flat. Hindu Jagran Manch also accused him of manipulating Hindu girls to convert to Islam and physically exploiting them. He has been handed over to the police with all the evidence.

This is reportedly the fifth case of love jihad in a week in a private Tele-calling company located in Billion Convention in Indore, the perpetrator was also employed there. “We have also given full information about the company to the police. If similar cases of love jihad come to light in the firm, then the organization will take major action by gathering the entire Hindu society,” Hindu Jagran Manch warned. They further added, “Aman Khan has been handed over to Hira Nagar police station. The police are taking further action.”

Hyderabad church accused of converting over 3,000 Hindus every month: How UK-linked Cavalry ‘Temple’ is spreading its tentacles in India

Anurag
-
0
Hyderabad church accused of converting over 3,000 Hindus every month: How UK-linked Cavalry ‘Temple’ is spreading its tentacles in India

On Saturday, 26th October, a video of CBN News (The Christian Broadcasting Network Inc) went viral on social media platform X which talked about Calvary Temple, a church in Hyderabad converting 3,000 Hindus every month to Christianity. Paster Satish, who runs the “Mega Church” Calvary Temple, claimed that they have done over 3.5 Lakh Hindu conversions to Christianity so far and planning to establish 40 Calvari-like Churches across India in the next 10 years. In the video, shared by journalist Devika Rani, CBN claimed that Hindu organisations including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are trying to stop their activities in India.

Satellite church premised and sealed by administration

On Monday, 28th October 2024, Legal Rights Protection Forum shared on social media platform X that following orders from the Kakinada District Collector, revenue officials have confiscated the Calvary Temple which was a digital church branch operated by Pastor Satish Kumar from Hyderabad. It is unclear if any complaint was filed or why the action was taken. Following the closure of this Satellite branch, there are still 10 more operating apart from the main church.

Pushing foreign powers to meddle with India’s affairs revolving around religious freedom

In a video shared by X handle missionkali in 2020, Pastor Satish was heard saying that he managed to stay out of the government’s radar as he does not use words like conversion or forced conversion. He said, “The government is happy that we are providing free food to the poor”. Interestingly, during a pandemic, they claim to have distributed 700 tons of food and medicines to the needy. It is not hard to guess how they have used this “noble” cause for luring vulnerable Hindus.

A post by then-Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, was also included in the video, showing Satish meeting with him and discussing “the importance of protecting religious freedom.” Satish, on one hand, claims he enjoys religious freedom in India, yet on the other, he meets with foreign leaders, enabling them to meddle in India’s affairs.

The US has particularly interfered in India’s internal matters concerning religious freedom for decades, especially since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) publishes annual reports on India that often target Hindus and the current government, alleging discrimination against minorities.

Satish meeting then-US VP Milke Pence. Image source: VP45 archive X account.

About Calvary Temple India

Calvary Temple India was founded by Dr. Satish Kumar in 2005. He is often described as a “widely respected” pastor, author, and international speaker, credited with visionary leadership and “integrity.” Yet, such titles raise questions when examined against the backdrop of his missionary activities. Pastor Satish’s emphasis on “biblical standards” appears strategically tailored to increase his following, especially given his goal of aggressive conversions in India. Though he claims to embody humility and accessibility, his methods suggest a calculated approach to influence and control under the guise of humanitarianism.

The growth of Calvary Temple has been praised extensively on its website, with claims of having 400,000 members. Such rapid expansion of the church raises serious concerns about its reliance on resources and the tactics used to influx funding to target vulnerable Hindus. Calvary Temple also claims the church was constructed in just 52 days. When considered alongside initiatives like Calvary Bible College and Calvary Hospital, as well as the free meals provided, it appears to be less about philanthropy and more about building a religious empire.

Church is actively converting 3,000 Hindus every month

Though the news report by CBN was supposed to be in favour of the Calvary Temple, it accidentally exposed the modus operandi of the missionary group’s operations. Calvary Temple claims to be India’s largest church, with a congregation of over 300,000 members. Led by Pastor Sathish Kumar, it converts at least 3,000 Hindus to Christianity every month. Though Christian media celebrates this as a mark of success, it highlights the controversial overreach of the church.

Massive campus and mandatory attendance

The church has a vast campus in Hyderabad, including multiple facilities to accommodate thousands of attendees every Sunday. Traffic starts to pile up as early as 4 AM, and church members, seen in the video, are “controlling” the traffic and managing the crowd. Every Sunday, five services take place, extending from early morning to evening. Interestingly, church members are reportedly compelled to attend the Sunday mass, with absentees receiving a call from the church inquiring about their absence. Pastor Kumar proudly preaches all five services, calling it a divine mission to “reach India’s lost with the gospel.”

Exploiting vulnerability under the guise of charity

Calvary Temple’s conversion practices target vulnerable Hindus, exploiting their poverty and economic instability under the guise of charity. CBN reported that every Sunday, Calvary Church offers three free meals to attendees. The number of attendees dining at Sunday mass reaches up to 50,000, amounting to 200,000 free meals monthly. In addition to free food, the church also offers free medical services, marriage arrangements, and funeral arrangements, as calculated measures to lure Hindus into conversion.

Contrast with Hindu charity practices

Notably, thousands of Hindu temples and organisations offer similar services to society without seeking conversions. For example, free food, or ‘bhandara,’ is provided at many temples three times daily throughout the year. Despite their societal contributions, Hindu temples are often viewed with suspicion and face scrutiny over claims of caste discrimination. Meanwhile, Calvary Church’s kitchen, open only on Sundays, is celebrated as if it is performing exceptional service for society.

Ambitious nationwide and global expansion

The church has already established 11 satellite churches and plans to build 40 mega-churches across India within the next decade. Pastor Kumar envisions his church reaching Hindus and other communities in India and beyond. This expansionist approach raises serious concerns about the influence of foreign Christian organisations on India’s religious fabric, as the church broadcasts television programmes in multiple Indian languages, reaching millions across South Asia and Gulf countries.

Intrusive tracking system raises concerns

One of the church’s most problematic practices is its tracking system, which requires members to swipe an access card to attend Sunday mass. The church claims this system helps track attendance and follow up with absentees. However, this level of surveillance within a religious setting is alarming and should raise concerns among government institutions, given its intrusive nature and the influence and control it exercises over its members.

Misleading claims of persecution

Calvary Church has alleged that “Hindu extremist groups” have escalated attacks on Christians. The labelling of Hindu organisations stems from their efforts to stop forced conversions conducted under the guise of free meals, medical treatment, or “miracles.” Hindu organisations, including the RSS, have been working extensively to prevent such conversion attempts, which has unsettled missionaries globally.

No clarity on where funds for building the church came from

In the chapter “Global, ‘Glocal’ and Local Dynamics in Calvary Temple: India’s Fastest Growing Megachurch” from the book “Handbook of Megachurches”, after founding Calvary Temple in India in 2005, he tried to build the largest church in the country. However, things did not materialise in his favour. Eventually, in 2015, he went to the US to raise funds but failed to secure any funding. Later, in his book 52 Day Miracle, author Peter Spencer claimed the church was built with the help of donations from its members. However, he failed to mention that when Kumar met him in the US, he had promised to financially support Kumar before the building project was completed. It is still unclear whether Spencer funded the project or the funding came from other sources.

Calvary Temple India’s funding details are not available on their website. However, our search revealed that they received substantial funding from the UK-based Christian Vision on two occasions. In 2020, they received £74,467, and in 2021, they received a whopping £727,394 from Christian Vision. OpIndia could not confirm if Calvary Temple India has an FCRA license.

Growing concerns over forced conversions

As Calvary Temple continues its ambitious expansion across India, concerns grow over the potential impact on the nation’s religious harmony. There is an urgent need for an extensive government investigation to curb Calvary Church’s forced conversion programmes that exploit the disadvantaged and manipulate vulnerable populations.

Sharad Pawar created split in family, politics should not be brought to such a low level: Ajit Pawar’s emotional outburst in Baramati

ANI
-
0
Sharad Pawar created split in family, politics should not be brought to such a low level: Ajit Pawar’s emotional outburst in Baramati

After filing the nomination on Monday from Baramati assembly, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar got emotional while addressing a rally. Pawar alleged that the NCP patron Sharad Pawar had created a split in the family and fielded a candidate against him.

“I previously admitted to making a mistake, but it seems like others are now making errors too. My family and I had agreed to file the form in Baramati first, but that didn’t happen. Despite the challenges, we managed to improve the situation. My mother has been very supportive, and she even advised that they should not nominate anyone against Ajit Pawar. However, I was told that Saheb (Sharad Pawar) instructed someone to file a nomination against me…. Saheb created the split within the family. … I just want to say that politics should not be brought to such a low level, because it took the generations to be united and it doesn’t take a single moment to break the family..,” he said.

He further said that Baramati had seen significant development yet people had the right to question him on the subject.

“Some people questions development work done in Baramati, this doesn’t mean development by making roads and even building schools does not mean development. I need to understand what is development what should be done so that we can say this development, … I understand you have a right to speak ……but, what you talk it is not understandable…” he said.

Ajit Pawar exuded confidence of winning the election and said that the no continuing scheme would be shut, as it is for the benefit of people.

“Mahayuti will come back in power. We all know that by November 23 afternoon. this government will come back in power … because we have to keep promises of farmers, ‘Ladli scheme’ would continue for next five years …if they (opposition)come in power they shut it…we are people of works but they are not like that …. I don’t want to say anything on democracy everyone has right to contest on election…After filling my nomination i am sure that people of Baramati will give me vote in huge number …today while holding road show, I saw lot of enthusiasm and excitement of the people to support me. I want to tell you all that please keep this enthusiasm till voting day …,” he said.

Ajit Pawar is fielded against his nephew and Sharad Pawar’s grandson Yugendra Pawar, having lost the lok Sabha seat to his sister Supriya Sule the Maharashtra Deputy CM will be keen to prove his might in Baramati. 

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

Access to Ram Gopal Mishra’s house restricted, Hindu victims pressurised to remain silent: A 7-day account of OpIndia’s experience in Bahraich

राहुल पाण्डेय
-
0
Access to Ram Gopal Mishra’s house restricted, Hindu victims pressurised to remain silent: A 7-day account of OpIndia’s experience in Bahraich

After the violence that erupted during Maa Durga’s immersion procession in Bahraich on October 13th, situations in the impacted districts have come to normal. Police patrolling has significantly decreased, although officers are actively detaining suspects based on CCTV footage, witness accounts, and other evidence. The Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) has been critical in restoring order after the crisis grew beyond the authority of local police, avoiding the necessity for central forces.

A ground report by OpIndia highlighted that the police seemed primarily focused on restricting attention to the impact on Hindus who were affected by the violence. Roadblocks were reportedly set up near Hindu villages, and there were instances of harassment on social media against Hindu supporters, while members of the Muslim community were more freely able to give media interviews. The police also appeared more lenient towards Islamic-related activity on social media. Nevertheless, the Hindu community expressed fearlessness to pledge to organize an even larger procession in the future.

Restricted access to affected Hindu families

As per OpIndia reports, early police efforts concentrated on keeping the sufferings of the affected Hindu community under wraps. For instance, repeated attempts to reach Ram Gopal’s residence were unsuccessful, as a heavy police presence nearby blocked access on several occasions. Barricades were placed three kilometres before Ram Gopal’s home location, and officers cited “orders from above” when asked about the restrictions.

Barricades placed 3 km away from Ram Gopal’s home

After Ram Gopal, our team attempted to reach Sipahiya Pauli village, home of Vinod and Satyavan Mishra who were also attacked by the Islamists but were stopped again by police officers who prevented us from proceeding further. Our next destination was Gauria Ghat, the site for the idol immersion, where we encountered more obstacles along the way. One Aditya Mishra, a resident of Mahasi Bazar, managed to give a discreet interview to OpIndia, but the following day police arrived at his house, arrested him, issued a challan, and sent him to jail. Vinod Mishra, who was injured and spoke on camera, also shared that he faces pressure to stay silent.

Several Hindus meanwhile provided their contact numbers, identifying themselves as victims of the violence and agreeing to meet later. However, repeated calls went unanswered. While interviewing Satyavan Mishra, a family member of his, Vinod Mishra, received a call warning him to avoid media interactions. Aditya Mishra also reported facing pressure to keep his distance from the media.

In contrast, members of the Muslim community freely gave interviews, portraying themselves as victims. Their actions, from retrieving items from shops to partial demolitions of their homes, were broadcast live on various channels without restrictions. In the approximately 8-kilometer stretch between Nathuapur and Mahsi, we encountered many Muslim families who spoke openly to the media, unpressured and unaffected by fear. This disparity in media access initially framed the Muslim community as the sole victims of the violence and Hindus as the attackers.

Further, the Bahraich administration’s two-sided approach was evident not only on the ground but also across social media. Bahraich Police warned accounts that either highlighted the suffering of Hindus or attempted to expose the actions of the Muslim side. This warning was directed at multiple organizations, including OpIndia and Panchjanya. Despite consistent eyewitness accounts, the police denied that any attack announcements were made from the mosque and even issued an order for a notice to Dainik Jagran. Hindutva supporters and organizations were also asked to provide evidence for every tweet and statement they shared.

Meanwhile, outlets like The Wire continued to report selectively, with no intervention or requests for verification from the Bahraich police regarding interviews with Muslims who blatantly placed complete blame on Hindus. The police assured that no innocent would be punished after Muslim women were arrested. At one point, Bahraich Police even regarded Jamiat, an organization known for providing legal aid to terror suspects, as a peaceful hub, officially sharing their Urdu-language statements.

A similar scenario unfolded when rumours spread on social media that Ram Gopal Mishra’s body had been severely mutilated, with claims circulating about uprooted nails and other injuries. Bahraich Police swiftly labelled these claims as misleading and issued a denial—yet the post-mortem report followed soon after showcased injuries on toes. Conversely, no official denial was made when Muslim individuals alleged brutal house burnings and mistreatment of women without evidence at the hands of non-Muslims.

The Hindu community, despite facing religious violence and significant pressures, has made it clear they will not let these events stifle their religious practices.

The affected Hindus have unitedly declared that their Sanatani traditions are a cherished heritage passed down by their ancestors, and any attack on these traditions will not be tolerated, regardless of efforts to suppress them. Many expressed a willingness to make sacrifices, much like Ram Gopal. Ram Gopal Mishra’s wife has also vowed to fight relentlessly for a death sentence for her husband’s killers.

PAC’s significant role in curbing violence, preventing the need for central forces

At the onset of the Bahraich violence, the local police were criticized for their alleged negligence and failure to maintain order. Following a meeting with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the family of the late Ram Gopal raised direct allegations against the police. In response, the authorities swiftly suspended the outpost in-charge, station in-charge, and Deputy SP, with the Additional SP later reassigned to headquarters. When the situation intensified, PAC, a specialized unit of the UP Police, took control to restore order.

The PAC brought the situation under control within hours. Senior IPS officer Ajay Kumar was seen frequently patrolling not only Maharajganj, the site of the incident but also nearby villages. With the arrival of STF in-charge IPS Amitabh Yash, the government machinery has become highly active. Due to the collective efforts of the authorities, the violence that erupted on October 13th was contained by the end of the day, eliminating the need for central forces. Several new officers have since been assigned to local police stations and districts, working to identify suspects and pursue further legal action.

‘Fishes in Sarayu River traumatised’, ‘Infringement of the rights of darkness lovers’, and ‘Muslims marginalised’: Leftwing reportage on Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya

Jinit Jain
-
0
‘Fishes in Sarayu River traumatised’, ‘Infringement of the rights of darkness lovers’, and ‘Muslims marginalised’: Leftwing reportage on Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is beautifully adorned in preparation for Diwali, one of the most significant festivals celebrated by millions of Hindus around the world. This festival commemorates Lord Ram’s return home after 14 years of exile. This year is particularly special for Ayodhya, as it marks the first Diwali celebrations held in the temple town with the newly consecrated Ram Mandir.

Into its eighth year, the UP government plans to deck up Ayodhya with diyas to celebrate ‘Deepotsav’, decorating the city with 25-28 lakh lamps and setting a world record. The Yogi Adityanath government said Diwali celebrations would be undertaken with environmental concerns in mind and eco-friendly lamps would be used to light up the grand Ram Temple.

However, even as the country is drowned in the festive mood and preparations are underway to celebrate Diwali in Ayodhya’s Ram Temple, the festivities face threats not from Ravana but a section of ‘conscientious environmentalists’ and ‘secular critics’, armed with their keyboards and tweets, rearing to wage war on the Hindu festival.

In the past week, the WhatsApp group of these ‘activists’ saw heightened activity, with its members routinely throwing lavish parties in their respective ‘2BHKs’ and discussing issues such as ‘growing polarisation’ in society hours after routinely spreading fake news demonising Hindus. They apparently decided to meet in person in an upscale seafood restaurant in Khan Market to discuss how they could attack Diwali celebrations by raising concerns about pollution and the safety of animals among other reasons to target the Yogi Adityanath government in UP and Modi government at the Centre.

“Modi’s new India splurges on Diwali celebrations while it struggles to feed its population,” tweeted a ‘journalist’ popularly known as ‘parking lot’ on X, a day after Diwali, highlighting the recently released Global Hunger Index that ranked India at 105 out of 127 nations, even though it placed India lower than several nations to which it had gifted free ration as a goodwill gesture.

His wife, a YouTuber these days too, partook in the collective propaganda effort, suggesting Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya this year reflect badly on a nation where poor children ferret out oil from earthen lamps and pour it in utensils for their family’s use.

Another member of this esteemed group, who was recently in the United States for a ‘scholarship’ programme, decided to include a Muslim angle to report on Ayodhya celebrations. “The ostentatious Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya is a jarring reminder of how Muslims in India continue to be sidelined and marginalised,” said the ‘scribe’ working for a left-leaning propaganda portal and who recently expressed the desire for the return of a man who coined ‘Two Nation Theory’ to direct Indian Muslims in the ‘right’ direction. The premise of her argument was a juxtaposed picture of a Muslim family of a husband, 4 wives, and 8 children living in darkness because of their inability to pay electricity bills with a brightly lit-up Ram Temple in Ayodhya. 

Yet another leftist, a psephologist by profession but who claims to have expertise in every field under the sun, tweeted, “Imagine the audacity, celebrating Diwali with actual lamps! Do they not know the carbon footprint of all those diyas?” The tweet, naturally, featured an image of Ayodhya—not radiating with traditional warmth, but rather portrayed as a smog-filled dystopia. A witty X user promptly responded underneath his tweet, “Aaj Duggal Saab environmentalist hai.”

Articles trashing the Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya began to emerge in publications, such as mushrooms sprouting after rains. ‘Yogi Adityanath govt plunges Ayodhya in environmental catastrophe’ was the title of an article that argued about the violation of animal rights. “Doesn’t lighting so many lamps infringe on the rights of nocturnal animals? Think of the owls, they must be so triggered by all this light!” it contended.

Meanwhile, a video by a popular YouTuber based out of Germany, discussed how the Diwali celebration was a clear sign of cultural appropriation. “I mean, Diwali isn’t just about lights, it’s about inclusivity. Where’s the inclusivity for the light-sensitive community? Was there a sincere attempt undertaken to seek permission from the environment before lighting up those diyas? And don’t even get me started on the trauma felt by fishes and crocodiles living in the Saryu River,” the YouTuber pondered, subtly hinting at his followers to file a petition against this gross misconduct.

“What? We are lighting up Ayodhya with diyas, but what about those who love darkness? Don’t they have the right to enjoy darkness? Isn’t this a gross undermining of the Indian constitution?” lamented a Radio Jockey claiming to voice concerns for the darkness lovers.  

On the Yogi Adityanath administration’s use of eco-friendly lamps instead of traditional diyas, an ‘environmental activist’ tweeted, “But what about the cultural authenticity?”, arguing that the government has failed everyone, Hindus, environmentalists, minorities, animals, and others, without offering any explanation regarding it.

A self-described ‘journalist’ accused of plagiarism for her columns in an American daily and who faces enquiry for committing fraud in the name of donations in India shared a news report of a thief caught red-handed for stealing valuables from a house in Ayodhya. The ‘journalist’ claimed the arrest of the thief, identified as Abdul, on the day of Diwali was yet another blow to the secular credentials of the nation under the Modi government. “Now needy Muslims in India can not even steal from the privileged ones. This is what India has been turned into in the last 10 years of rule. This is the fascism we are living under,” she tweeted.

PM Modi and Spain’s Prime Minister launch Airbus-Tata C-295 aircraft facility in Vadodara: Everything to know about India’s first privately built military aircraft

OpIndia Staff
-
0
PM Modi and Spain’s Prime Minister launch Airbus-Tata C-295 aircraft facility in Vadodara: Everything to know about India’s first privately built military aircraft

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated the C-295 aircraft factory in Vadodara, Gujarat on 28th October.

These aircraft will be jointly manufactured by Airbus and Tata under the ‘Make in India’ campaign for the Indian Air Force. During this time, PM Modi also talked about the steps taken to expand the defence sector.

“Today the defence manufacturing ecosystem in India is touching new heights. If we had not taken concrete steps 10 years ago, it would have been impossible to reach this level today. We expanded private sector participation in defence manufacturing and made the public sector efficient,” PM Modi expressed during the event.

PM Modi also remembered former Tata Sons chairman late Ratan Tata and stated that he would have been delighted to have been present on the occasion. The latter had recently passed away at the age of 86 due to age-related issues.

“But, wherever his soul is, he would be happy,” he added. The factory is India’s first private-sector aircraft manufacturing facility. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was the only company in the nation producing aircraft prior to this.

The joint Airbus and Tata facility in Vadodara will produce Airbus C-295 aircraft on the order of the Air Force. The Indian Air Force had ordered 56 C-295 aircraft in 2021. Of these 16 will arrive from Spain while 40 aircraft will be developed in India in 2026.

All the systems and other parts including the engine are set to be installed in the Vadodara factory while their bodies will be manufactured in Tata’s factory located in Hyderabad which also develops bodies of other aircraft.

This is the first chance for India’s private sector to produce aircraft due to which the suppliers of aircraft parts in the country will be able to expand, and eventually, it will be feasible to export aircraft from India.

Furthermore, if the Air Force or Navy makes such orders in the future, they will be completed swiftly. This plant will also produce a huge number of jobs and an ecosystem for the manufacture of aeroplanes in India.

Pilots and other Air Force personnel won’t need to travel to Spain as they would be able to train here. These Airbus aircraft have been ordered by the Air Force to replace its outdated HS-748 aircraft. The nearly 60-year-old HS-748 is no longer functional in the present day.

On the other hand, the C-295 has contemporary technology and can transport military gear with relative ease. In addition, they require minimal maintenance and have a large capacity.

According to military analysts, Airbus and Tata may receive additional orders if the Air Force first approves this aircraft. The Air Force must also replace its old AN-32 aircraft in addition to HS-748.

The Air Force will be placing a very large order if they decide to replace them with C-295. This aeroplane, which Tata and Airbus are jointly developing, is unique in a lot of ways. It is essentially a plane for transporting freight.

Its primary function is to move troops or military hardware from one location to another. 73 soldiers can be transported at once by this two-pilot aircraft.

Approximately nine tons of cargo can be transported in one flight by this aircraft. It can also work as an air ambulance and does not require any special runway to land. In such a situation, it will be useful to help the Indian Army deployed in inaccessible or remote areas.

1...669670671...7,603Page 670 of 7,603