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LiveLaw reports Umar Khalid’s bail hearing being adjourned omitting this crucial fact, Rajdeep Sardesai uses it to cry ‘injustice’: Here is the truth

OpIndia Staff
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LiveLaw reports Umar Khalid’s bail hearing being adjourned omitting this crucial fact, Rajdeep Sardesai uses it to cry ‘injustice’: Here is the truth

On the 7th of October, the bail hearing of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and others was listed to be heard by the division bench comprising Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Shalinder Kaur. The matter was adjourned to 25th November 2024 because Justice Navin Chawla’s father passed away on the 6th of October.

Given the sensation attached to the case, one would imagine that law portals like LiveLaw would be responsible enough to report the full truth, however, that is a tall ask. On the 7th of October, LiveLaw tweeted that the UAPA matter had been adjourned and the next date of hearing was listed to be the 25th of November 2024.

While tweeting the update, LiveLaw missed the reporting of the crucial information that the matter had been adjourned because of the personal loss suffered by Justice Navin Chawla.

LiveLaw also published a report on the adjournment, however, even in the report, the reason for the adjournment was not listed. An archived version of the report can be read here.

As soon as LiveLaw tweeted the update, self-proclaimed ‘vultures’ like Rajdeep Sardesai jumped to action, crying injustice. He wrote, “Tareek pe tareek. Today is October 7.. next date is November 25! Four years and counting. Reason? Judge did not sit!!”.

Rajdeep edited his tweet later to write, “Tareek pe tareek. Today is October 7.. next date is November 25! Four years and counting. Bail plea not heard. Reason? Judge did not sit!! For VVIPs, courts will open for bail on weekends, ensure fast tracking”.

In the duration that he wrote his initial post to the last edit, there were enough netizens pointing out that the hearing was adjourned because of the Judge’s personal loss.

Rajdeep Sardesai took the time to edit his post but added fuel to the fire by crying “VIPs get fast track hearings”. It must be mentioned that the date of the next hearing is provided according to the roster.

Rajdeep Sardesai is essentially upset that an Islamist charged under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is not being special treatment.

But he was the only one to omit the context of the adjournment and peddle propaganda on social media.

The usual suspects, from Islamists to Leftists, have been trying to create a narrative that Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and others are being denied bail because of the inherent bias of the judicial system and that, the judiciary is deliberately delaying the bail hearings.

When Umar Khalid sought adjournments in hearings

It is pertinent to note here that while the narrative often is that Umar Khalid’s hearing has been delayed indefinitely, it was only in April 2023 that he approached the Supreme Court. Before that, he had got a 1-week reprieve to attend his sister’s marriage in December 2022.

First and foremost, there is no explanation as to why Umar Khalid waited 6 months before moving the Supreme Court for bail, after the rejection by the High Court.

Secondly, while there were screeches about the delay in the hearing, there were several times when his lawyer Kapil Sibal himself wanted the case to be adjourned.

OpIndia found that out of the 14 adjournments in 2023 and 2024, 7 delays and adjournments were sought by Umar Khalid himself. It therefore becomes evident that the withdrawal was certainly not because of the famed “delay” in hearing.

Umar Khalid and his role in Delhi’s anti-Hindu riots

On 14th September 2020, Umar Khalid, former JNU student and son of an ex-SIMI member was arrested for his role in the Delhi anti-Hindu riots that broke out on the 24th of February.

He, along with others, was booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act or UAPA and relative provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for being the masterminds of the riots.

Umar Khalid, son of Ilyas on the other hand admitted to the Delhi police that he was involved in organizing Muslim groups, instigating them, and preparing for the large-scale violence.

He had mobilized the Muslims against the law, by asserting that the new law was ‘against Muslims’ and had also planned to involve women and children in the ‘Chakka Jam’ amid the visit of US President Trump to India.

He had allegedly met the former AAP Councillor Tahir Hussain and another accused Khalid Saifi to assure logistical support during the riots through his contacts in the PFI.

According to the reports, the agencies have been watching and warning about the nexus between Maoists whose front organization Khalid is aligned with, and hardline Islamists allegedly represented by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Welfare Party of India, and banned outfit SIMI.

He had also repeated Pakistani talking points in Kashmir an claimed that the Indian Union territory was occupied by Indian forces.

Sexual video, money embezzlement or clash of control? ISKCON Patna and Bhagalpur temple priests clash in Patna, 12 injured

OpIndia Staff
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Sexual video, money embezzlement or clash of control? ISKCON Patna and Bhagalpur temple priests clash in Patna, 12 injured

On Sunday (6th October), clashes erupted between two factions of ISKCON priests at the Patna ISKCON temple in Bihar. This came after Bhagalpur ISKCON temple president Rakshak Giridhari Das released a video allegedly featuring Patna ISKCON temple president Krishna Kripa Das alias Kanhaiya Singh in a semi-naked state with an unknown girl.

While the temple’s PRO Nand Gopal Das said that the video that was released was seven years old, the clashes over it erupted on Sunday.

Reports say that the Bal Brahmcharis at the Patna ISKCON Temple were being beaten up for no reason and they were also being denied the prasad. Moreover, it is alleged that several other ‘immoral’ activities including embezzlement of money, obscene acts and molestation of female devotees, and beating of brahmacharis were taking place at the temple with the knowledge of the temple’s higher authorities.

In this regard, the ISKCON Bhagalpur temple Brahmacharis complained to ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission (GBC) in Kolkata. In response, the ISKCON Patna authorities called the Bhagalpur ISKCON priests for a meeting in Patna. However, as they reached the temple, the Bhagalpur ISKCON priests were thrashed by bouncers with sticks, allegedly on the orders of the ISKCON Patna administration. Over 12 priests were injured in the clashes. The incident left devotees present at the spot terrified.

While the ISKCON Bhagalpur temple president Rakshak Giridhari Das accused the ISKCON Patna president and the temple administration of wrongdoings, Krishna Kripa Das, president of Patna ISKCON temple, says that Giridhari Das wants his share in the temple authority. He added that despite being transferred to Bhagalpur, Rakshak Giridhari Das was residing in Patna.

Later, when the victims reached Patna Kotwali police station to file a complaint, the police allegedly showed reluctance in registering their complaint. The ISKCON Bhagalpur temple priests accused the local police of being in cahoots with the ISKCON Patna temple administration.

Meanwhile, the Patna ISKCON temple administration has also given a written complaint against the Bal Brahmacharis from Bhagalpur for entering the Patna ISKCON temple premises and assaulting the temple workers.

Speaking about the incident and the main cause behind the clashes, DSP Law and Order Krishna Murari Prasad said that after inspecting the spot late at night, they found out that the conflict has happened due to internal factionalism over the control of the administration of ISKCON temple. 

DSP Law and Order Krishna Murari Prasad questioned Rakshak Giridhari Das, President of Bhagalpur ISKCON temple and Krishna Kripa Das, President of Patna ISKCON temple, who had come to the police station to lodge a complaint and plead for justice. Both the parties levelled serious allegations against each other.

On the alleged molestation video involving the Patna ISKCON president Krishna Kripa Das alias Kanhaiya Singh, the DSP said that if any complaint comes up in this regard, then this matter will be investigated.

Tripura: Muslim mob goes berserk after claiming assault from Durga Puja organisers for refusing to pay chanda, police bring situation under control

OpIndia Staff
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Tripura: Muslim mob goes berserk after claiming assault from Durga Puja organisers for refusing to pay chanda, police bring situation under control

On Sunday (6th October), violent clashes broke out in the Kadamtala block area of North Tripura after a Muslim mob attacked Hindu houses and members of a local club over the collection of paid subscriptions (chanda) for Durga Puja.

The attack comes 3 days before the commencement of the annual Hindu festival. According to a report by Tripura Chronicle, a local club organising the Durga Puja sought a contribution of ₹5000 from a Muslim driver named Jahar Mia.

He was reportedly travelling to Assam with some of his relatives. Mia refused to pay, leading to a heated argument and confrontation between him and the club members.

Later, a Muslim mob siding with the driver broke into the houses of the Hindu club members and attacked their families.

They did not spare women and children during the targeted attack. The victims sustained injuries and an atmosphere of tension gripped the entire neighbourhood.

During the orgy of violence, the Muslim mob vandalised two homes and a beauty parlour. In visuals that have surfaced on social media, scared Hindu residents were seen narrating their ordeal and showcasing the extent of damage caused to their property.

“Kadamtala bazar is destroyed, including the front part of my house. Is this India? Where do we go from here?” a terrified Hindu woman was heard saying.

“Local sources reveal that minority community members entered the conflict, reportedly attacking common people and exacerbating the tension,” the report by Tripura Chronicle read.

It further added, “District Superintendent of Police Bhanupada Chakraborty acknowledged the intense strain between the two groups, largely triggered by disputes over Durga Puja donation collections.”

An arson attack was also carried out in the Kadamtala Bazar area. Muslim mobs, armed with machetes, terrorised Hindus and looted shops in the market area. One man was brutally killed and 17 others were injured during the onslaught on the Hindu community.

The attack triggered retaliatory measures, prompting the law enforcement authorities to intervene. A large contingent of police and paramilitary forces, including Tripura State Rifles (TSR), was deployed to pacify the situation.

They resorted to lathi-charge and firing. So far, the police have arrested two Hindus namely Nirmalendu Sen and Dwipajoy Nath in connection to the violence.

Following the incident, the local administration imposed Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) in the area for 3 days, preventing the assembly of 5 or more people.

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sajal Debnath, TCS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Dharmanagar, North Tripura in exercise of power conferred under section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 hereby pass order to prohibit any kind of assembly consisting of five or more person with or without weapons or weapon like objects such as lathi, sticks, iron rods, bamboos, stones or any object which may be used as weapon of offence and also hereby prohibit holding of any public meeting, rally gathering, public address with or without use of loudspeakers, plying of vehicles/ motor bike not more than two together on the road etc. Anywhere around the Kadamtala PS Jurisdiction area of Dharmanagar Sub- Division of North Tripura with following restrictions from October 06 to October 9,” the order read.

In a statement, the North Tripura district police said, “Situation in Kadamtala is completely under control. Police is taking appropriate action. Please don’t spread rumour.”

Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has taken cognisance of the matter and directed strict action against those involved in the violence.

Confusion in IOA’s agreement with Reliance caused a loss of 24 crores? Know what the CAG report says and what it is missing

Anurag
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Confusion in IOA’s agreement with Reliance caused a loss of 24 crores? Know what the CAG report says and what it is missing

On 12th September, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) released an audit report suggesting that the “faulty” sponsorship agreement between the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) resulted in undue benefits to RIL. The CAG alleged that the agreement led to a loss of Rs 24 crore to the IOA.

However, the amendments that led to the so-called loss were made after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) changed conditions and withdrew the decision to allow the sponsor’s name to appear with the country house.

CAG alleged a loss of Rs 24 crore

As per the report published in the Hindustan Times, RIL was granted the right to associate with the IOA as the Official Principal Partner of the Asian Games (2022, 2026), Commonwealth Games (2022, 2026), 2024 Paris Olympics, and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in 2022. It also gave RIL the rights to construct and showcase the ‘India House’ during these Games.

Initially, the agreement was for six Games. However, through an amendment on 5th December 2023, additional rights for the Winter Olympic Games (2026, 2030) and Youth Olympic Games (2026, 2030) were also granted to RIL without additional fees.

The report noted, “In view of the above, the IOA did not protect their own interests as there was no change in the consideration amount, i.e. Rs 35 crore, which was set in the Sponsorship Agreement signed on 5th December 2023 after granting the rights to four additional Games to RIL.” It further added, “The IOA should have raised the consideration amount from Rs 35 crore to Rs 59 crore as the consideration amount for the rights to six Games was Rs 35 crore, calculated on an average of Rs 6 crore per Game. Thus, there was a loss of Rs 24 crore to the IOA due to the faulty agreement with RIL and undue favour to RIL. The reason for not increasing the amount to Rs 59 crore should be communicated to the audit.”

IOA treasurer and president of the Weightlifting Federation of India, Sahdev Yadav, claimed that the executive council and the sponsorship committee were not consulted before amending the agreement. He said that RIL benefitted from the amendment, and it was not within the knowledge of the executive board, finance committee, or sponsorship committee. Seeking a response from IOA president PT Usha, he said, “The president should explain why the agreement was changed and who signed it. It has led to a loss of Rs 24 crore to the IOA. This should not have happened.”

Change in IOC conditions led to the addition of four Games to the agreement

Though the CAG has alleged that the IOA faced a loss of Rs 24 crore, a crucial detail must be noted to understand the reason for the amendment to the agreement in December 2023. The executive assistant to IOA president Usha, Ajay Kumar Narang, explained why the agreement was renegotiated in the first place. He said, “When the agreement was signed and naming rights were granted, it was in the name of the sponsor — Reliance India House. In 2022, the International Olympic Committee allowed the sponsor’s name with the country house. But in 2023, the IOC changed the conditions to say that the sponsor cannot use a name, and it will have to be a country-named house.”

Crucial detail missing in CAG’s ‘estimate’

After the IOC changed the conditions, the sponsor, in this case, RIL, told the IOA that it deserved to be compensated as it would not gain any mileage and will lose on advertisement opportunities if their name doesn’t get added. Narang added, “The sponsor came back to us saying they would not gain the mileage, so they had to be compensated. Therefore, additional rights for four events were given. Also, the CAG has calculated the pro-rata per event, which amounts to Rs 6 crore per Game. It is calculated based on the visibility a sponsor gets. In the Winter Olympics and Youth Olympics, India’s participation is much lower compared to the Summer Olympics.”

He said, “In the agreement made in 2022, they should have specified that it would be subject to the naming conditions approved by the IOC. That was the flaw in the agreement and the flaw in the tender itself.”

Additionally, the CAG’s estimation of te potential loss is based on a pro-rata basis, assigning Rs 6 crores per game. But there is an issue because the summer Olympics are much more highlighted, and India sends a much bigger contingent there than the winter Olympics.

Chennai: 4 people die, around 100 hospitalised as stampede like situation erupts due to crowd mismanagement after Air Force Show

OpIndia Staff
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Chennai: 4 people die, around 100 hospitalised as stampede like situation erupts due to crowd mismanagement after Air Force Show

Four people died and over two hundred people were injured after chaos erupted in Chennai after an air show organised by the Indian Air Force (IAF). Poor crowd management and wrong decisions of the authorities have been blamed for the tragedy. The air show was held at Marina Beach to celebrate the 92nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force.

The show attempted to enter the Limca Book of Records with the presence of around 16 lakh people. As per reports, around 13 lakh people arrived at the venue by train, metro, bus, and cars to watch the show. While the show started at 11 AM, people had started to arrive at 7 AM to secure a good spot.

The blazing sun caused a lot of discomfort to the people. Adding to the difficulties, the authorities removed water vendors from the area. Lack of water caused many elderly people to faint due to heat exhaustion, even before the event started.

However, the real trouble began after the show ended at 1 PM, as lakhs of people tried to exit the venue at the same time. Lakhs of people poured onto Kamarajar Salai, the road along the Marina beach, causing a complete standstill. Traffic authorities were helpless as they were not prepared to handle such a large number of crowds.

The massive crowd caused a stampede-like situation and resulted in the death of 4 people due to suffocation, heat exhaustion and dehydration. Over 230 people were injured, and 96 of them required hospitalisation. The News Minute has identified the dead victims as Srinivasan (48), Karthikeyan (34). , John Babu (56), and Dinesh.

People were stranded at various places in the area under the blazing sun, with locals coming to rescue with drinking water. Chaos also erupted at train stations such as the Government Estate metro station, the Chintadripet MRTS station and bus stops such as nearby Anna Square. Some people reportedly managed to escape the rush by entering into the Madras University campus.

Chennai Metro had increased the frequency of trains to cater to the extra crowd, but everyone wanted to leave as soon as the show ended, causing mayhem.

Police had to clear the roads to make way for ambulances. Roads leading from Marina Beach to various places were blocked with traffic for several hours, disrupting traffic in the entire city. The situation returned to normal after around 3 hours, police said.

Officials said that they expected around 10 lakh people, and made arrangements accordingly. But the situation on Sunday showed that the arrangements were not adequate, and then the authorities failed to manage the crowd after the show ended. Instead of a controlled flow of people from the venue after the show was over, they allowed everyone to leave at the same time, causing a stampede-like situation.

No devotee will need to walk over 1 km, AI for security, Kumbh area to double, no waste to reach rivers: CM Yogi Adityanath highlights Mahakumbh 2025 preparations

ANI
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No devotee will need to walk over 1 km, AI for security, Kumbh area to double, no waste to reach rivers: CM Yogi Adityanath highlights Mahakumbh 2025 preparations

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath on Sunday said that the government has set a deadline of December 15 to provide all the facilities to the devotees participating in the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. He also said that the government is using AI tools to ensure safety, focusing on ‘zero plastic usage’ and expanding the area of the fiesta.

Explaining the arrangements and preparations, CM Yogi further said that the government is ensuring that no devotees have to walk for more than 1 km during the festival except for the 6 peak days, which include the festival of Makar Sankranti, Mouni Amawasya, Mahashivratri, Posh Purnima and Maghi Purnima.

CM Yogi emphasised that to facilitate the transport for devotees, the government will provide more than 700 shuttle electric buses.

“We have set a deadline of December 15 to finish all the preparations. We are going to provide all the facilities here. The Kumbh will expand in double area as compared to the Prayagraj Kumbh 2013. Except for all 6 peak days between January 13 to February 26 (Makar Sankranti, Mouni Amawasya, Mahashivratri, Posh Purnima, Maghi Purnima), we will try that no devotee would walk more than one kilometre on all days to take a holy bath. Apart from that, more than 700 shuttle electric buses will be present at the spot to provide services to the devotees,” said CM Yogi while addressing a press conference.

Addressing the major issue of cleanliness, CM Yogi said that it has been ensured that ‘no solid or liquid wastes’ are discharged in either Ganga or Yamuna. Additionally, he highlighted that the sewage will either be discharged or diverted only after the treatment.

CM Yogi asserted, “Although due to the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj will be seen as grand and divine. We are using the Artificial Intelligence tool for safety measures. We are preparing keeping in mind the target of Zero Plastic Usage. To ensure ‘no discharge of solid or liquid wastes in either Ganga or Yamuna, we are preparing and taking measures. We will either discharge or divert the sewage after cleaning and treatment. We are going to provide all the facilities here. The Kumbh of Prayagraj 2019 had set a standard. We will be successful in establishing a grand and divine Kumbh as a clean, safe and well-organized Kumbh at an even better level… You had a big role in the success of Kumbh in 2019. This time again, with your positive role, you all will have a positive contribution in taking Prayagraj and this grand event to the global stage…”

Recalling the Kumbh Mela of 2019, UP CM said that the preparations for Mahakumbh 2025 are going on at a war footing and there are no obstacles in the preparations.

He further informed that the state government is working with the different central government departments to fasten the preparations.

“After our meeting with 13 Akharas, Acharyabada and Tirthpurohits for Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 concluded, we did a detailed review of how the work for Mahakumbh is progressing by various departments of the central and state government. 2019 Kumbh Mela was an example that a Kumbh can be safe as well as organised. The team of Uttar Pradesh has experience… Till now under projects worth Rs 5600 crores, we have to make Prayagraj a beautiful place. Preparations for Mahakumbh 2025 are going on at a war footing. In 2019, the whole world was attracted to the auspiciousness of Prayagraj. About 24 crore people took a holy bath in Sangam… Several political leaders from the world also came to Prayagaj to witness the grand Kumbh mela. To push this, the Uttar Pradesh government along with several central governments including NHAI, AAI, etc, is preparing for the same. There is no obstacle in the preparation of Mahakumbh,” UP CM Yogi said.

Earlier today, CM Yogi Adityanath unveiled the logo of Maha Kumbh-2025 in Prayagraj. He also reviewed the preparations for the mega event and met with saints and performed puja during his visit to Prayagraj.

With the Maha Kumbh Mela all set to take place from January 14 to February 26, 2025, tight security arrangements are being made.

The main bathing festival, known as the “Shahi Snan” (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).

UP government has announced to provide subsidies for the transformation of dhabas, restaurants, and hotels on the major routes to offer improved facilities to tourists and devotees attending the festival.

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

Violence erupts in Saharanpur during protests by Muslims over comments of Yati Narasimhanand, stones pelted at police station

OpIndia Staff
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Violence erupts in Saharanpur during protests by Muslims over comments of Yati Narasimhanand, stones pelted at police station

Muslims continue violent protests in several places over alleged blasphemous made by Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati. After raising Sar Tan Se Juda slogans in several places including outside Dasna temple in Ghaziabad, a mob on Sunday attacked the Saharanpur Police station in Uttar Pradesh and pelted stones.

The incident took place in Sheikhpura village, just adjoining the Saharanpur city, on Sunday afternoon. Notably, Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati, the mahant of Dasna Devi Temple, has already been detained by Ghaziabad Police over a complaint filed against him.

As per reports, a mob pelted stones at the Sheikhpura police post in the Sadar Bazar police station area in Saharanpur. The violence took place during rally demanding action against Yati Narsinghanand for his comments suggesting to burn the effigy of Muhammad. Thousands of people had joined the procession chanting slogans.

The procession reached the police station to submit a memorandum with their demands. But, some in the procession pelted stones at the police station.

The police personnel in the police post had to abandon it and run away to save their lives. Later a large police force arrived at the spot to control the situation. A case has been registered against the attackers.

A mob also created a ruckus demanding action against the Mahant near Sheikhpura railway gate in Saharanpur.

SP City Abhimanyu Mangalik said, “Today people from the Shekhpura village came to give a complaint at Shekhpura Police Chowki. After giving the complaint, a few people tried to create chaos and pelt stones when police tried to stop them. Police by using mild force have dispersed them. No one has been injured and no property has been damaged. Those who are there in the video, we are working to arrest them after verification”.

He added that the protestors reached the police station to file a complaint against objectionable remarks made by Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati. He said that the memorandum was already accepted by the police, but during then someone from the crowd instigated people to pelt stones.

SP Abhimanyu Manglik further said that Gram Pradhan and Kisan Union held a peaceful meeting in Sheikhpura village. After that, some villagers tried to cause a disturbance, and the police used mild force to disperse them.

He said, “Although the complaint was filed peacefully, some extremists later caused unrest. The police are investigating, with videos recorded to assist in further action.”

He said that police teams have been formed to catch the miscreants who pelted stones and further action will be taken against them soon. Reportedly, some people have already been detained.

As per police, the protest started from Shekhpura Kadim village of Dehat Kotwali area, and the procession reached Sheikhpura police post.

Saharanpur Police and administration have appealed to the people to maintain peace. Also, the police have increased security arrangements in Saharanpur after the stone pelting incident.

Christians call them remains of Francis Xavier, for Buddhists he is Acharya Rahul Thero: Know why people demand DNA test of dead body kept in Goa church

सुधीर गहलोत
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Christians call them remains of Francis Xavier, for Buddhists he is Acharya Rahul Thero: Know why people demand DNA test of dead body kept in Goa church

Protests have started across Goa after state leader Subhash Velingkar demanded DNA testing of the remains of Christian saint Francis Xavier kept in a Goa Church. In view of the protest, Goa Police on Saturday (5th October 2024) said that Velingkar is absconding and raids are being conducted to find him.

The Christian community of Goa alleges that their religious sentiments have been hurt by Velingkar demanding DNA testing of the remains of Francis Xavier. Along with this, they also say that communal harmony has also been destroyed by Velingkar making such a statement. At least half a dozen complaints have been filed against former RSS leader Velingkar across Goa in this regard.

Based on the complaint of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Cruz Silva, an FIR was registered at Bicholim police station in North Goa on Friday (4th October) night. Velingkar has been booked under Section 299 (malicious act with intent to outrage religious feelings by insulting religion or religious beliefs of any class) of the Indian Penal Code (BNS).

According to the FIR, Velingkar made a derogatory speech against St. Francis Xavier with malicious intent, which hurt religious sentiments. Sources say that a police team went to Velingkar’s house on Friday (4th October) night, but he was not found there. Notably, Velingkar was expelled from the organization by the RSS in the year 2016.

Protests were held in many areas of the state on Friday (October 4, 2024) demanding the arrest of Velingkar. More than 300 people gathered outside the police station in Margao. Many leaders of Congress and Aam Aadmi Party were also among the protesters. Police had to lathicharge to disperse the protesters.

On Saturday (October 5, 2024), protesters blocked roads in Margao, Anjuna, and Old Goa. The protesters warned the Goa Police that if the accused Velingkar was not arrested soon, they would block the Zuari bridge. In view of the protest, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant appealed to the people to maintain peace and not block the roads.

Pramod Sawant said, “Whatever action was taken against Father Bolmax, similar action will be taken against Velingkar as well.” Father Bolmax Pereira, priest of St Francis Xavier Church in Chicalim, South Goa, was booked last year for hurting religious sentiments by making derogatory remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Parshuram, not Francis Xavier, is the saviour of Goa: Subhash Velingkar

Earlier this week, Subhash Velingkar had demanded a DNA test of the remains of St. Francis Xavier, who is called the patron of Goa. Velingkar said that St. Xavier cannot be called ‘Goencho Saib’ (patron of Goa). Earlier in the year 2022, he had made a similar statement. At that time, too, his statement was opposed.

In the year 2022, Velingkar had said that St. Francis Xavier cannot be called ‘Goencho Saib’. He had said that a campaign called ‘The Goa Files’ should be launched to create awareness. Subhash Velingkar says that Goencho Saib is not St. Francis Xavier, but Parshuram is ‘Goencho Saib’.

St. Francis Xavier was a Spanish Jesuit missionary. He reached Goa in 1542. At that time, Goa was a colony of Portugal. He died in the year 1552 on Shangchuan Island located off the coast of Guangdong province of China. His remains are kept in the ‘Basilica of Bom Jesus’ in Old Goa. An exhibition of his remains will be held in Goa from 21st November, 2024, to 5th January, 2025.

Velingkar has also lodged a complaint in the police station

Velingkar filed a complaint against some activist groups at the Old Goa Police Station on Thursday (3rd October 2024). In his complaint, he said, “I recently made a statement about the Goa Inquisition, which is an unfortunate chapter in Goa’s history. It happened during Portuguese rule, while history speaks of St Francis Xavier’s contribution to the spread of Christianity.”

He further added, “It is important to understand that the Goa Inquisition created a reign of terror among many non-Christians. I draw a comparison between the actions of the Inquisition that spread hatred and terror and the true spirit of sainthood. I believe it is time to revisit history, examine the actions of the pas,t and consider the true meaning of sainthood.”

Velingkar further added, “Actions that promoted hatred or persecution during the Inquisition or in any other historical period cannot be considered sacred. This statement is not made to denigrate any religion but to highlight historical events that have shaped the experiences of countless Goans.”

Subhash Velingkar also cited the demands of the people of the Buddhist community as the reason behind his statement. He said, “My statements speak of written history, not my personal views. The demand for a DNA test to verify the identity of the remains of St. Francis Xavier is gaining momentum among Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world.”

What is the demand of the people of the Buddhist community

Buddhists across the world, including Sri Lanka, have been demanding an investigation into the remains of St. Francis Xavier in Goa. They say that the remains claimed to be those of Francis Xavier are in fact those of Buddhist monk Rahula Thero. In 2014, an open letter was written by Sri Lankan activist group Rahula Thero to the Government of India and the then President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa.

In their petition in December 2014, the Buddhist community said, “We the signatories, as concerned and right-thinking citizens of India and Sri Lanka and the rest of the world, request you to kindly intervene in resolving the long-standing dispute regarding the true identity of the remains of a body kept in a glass coffin in a church in Goa, India.”

It said, “There is a widespread belief in Sri Lanka, particularly among Buddhists, that the body in question is that of a highly respected literary giant and learned monk of Sri Lanka, Acharya Ven. The remains belong to Sri Rahula Thero (1409-91), while Catholics have been led to believe that it is the body of Francis Xavier, a controversial Christian Jesuit missionary who was accused of committing crimes against humanity by starting the infamous Goa Inquisition.”

The petition further said, “We believe that DNA testing or blood sample testing of the descendants of both the families will satisfactorily put an end to the centuries-old debates and theories. We demand that the body lying in Goa be returned to France and the controversial remains should no longer be kept in Goa as neither Goa nor India is a colony of foreign countries.”

The petition states that Goa was liberated by India in 1961. In fact, the descendants of the Konkani Christian victims of the Goa Inquisition (first proposed by Francis Xavier) have launched a nationwide campaign and have also appealed to the Indian government. There is sufficient evidence in this regard based on historical data and factual reasoning. Therefore, it should be investigated.

Sri Lankan journalist W TJS Kaviratne also wrote an article in February 2014 regarding the body of Francis Xavier. In this article, he claimed that Buddhist monks and a section of Sri Lankan devotees say that the remains of St. Francis Xavier belong to the 15th century Buddhist monk Sri Rahula Thero. However, he said that DNA testing is necessary to confirm these beliefs of people.

Christians had protested against the exhibition of Xavier’s remains

In 2014, for the first time, the Christian community of Goa protested against the public display of the remains of Francis Xavier. Xavier is said to be a saint and a miracle worker. This public exhibition was going to be the first such exhibition in the last 500 years. The time for this was proposed from 22nd November 2014 to 4th January 2015 in Goa.

At that time, a section of the Christian community had formed a group called Konkani Christian Victims of Francis Xavier’s Atrocities. They had warned of agitation against this exhibition saying that they are descendants of the victims of Xavier’s atrocities. Their demand was that Xavier’s body be sent back to his home country. They had also started a nationwide signature campaign for this demand.

People claiming to be descendants of the victims said that it has been 53 years since Portuguese rule ended in Goa. Therefore, preserving Xavier’s body in India is an insult to India and it should be sent to Portugal as soon as possible. The victims also planned to petition the Goa government and the central government.

Buddhist organizations of India are also in favor of DNA testing

Regarding the controversy that has arisen over the remains of Francis Xavier and Buddhist enlightener Rahul Thero, people and organizations of the Buddhist community of India are also in favor of DNA testing. They say that whatever is controversial, finding a solution to it by testing it scientifically is in favor of peace.

Dhamma Dhiru alias Prema Phante, a member of the management committee of Mahabodhi Temple, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites of Buddhism located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, spoke to OpIndia in this regard. He said that people of the Buddhist community of India also want that the remains of Francis Xavier, allegedly preserved in Goa, be tested.

Prema Phante said that Rahul Thero was a great Buddhist saint and if there is a demand for an investigation regarding his remains, then it should be done. He said that there will be a discussion on this among the organizations of the Buddhist community of the country and if needed, a memorandum will also be submitted to Prime Minister Modi and the President in this regard.

Who is the famous Buddhist saint Rahul Thero

Sri Rahula Thero was a literary giant in the Sri Lankan literary world. He wrote famous literary works such as Buddhagajjaya, Vurthamaala Sandesaya, Paravi Sandesaya, Selahini Sandesaya, Kavyasekaraya, Panchika Pradeepaya, Buddhipasdiniya, Gira Sandesaya, Sakasakada and Mavulu Sandesaya in the time period from 1430 to 1440.

Rahula Thero was born on 9th June 1409 during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI. He became a monk in 1429. Thereafter he was known as Vacchishvara. Rahula Thero was fluent in 6 languages ​​and was a reputed author, experienced astrologer, and proficient in Ayurvedic medicine. He has written many famous books in all these three fields as well as spirituality.

He became the first bhikkhu to be conferred the rank of Sangaraja by King Parakramabahu. He was also the chief incumbent and principal of Vijayaba Pirivena, an internationally acclaimed educational institution established by King Vijayabahu I. Both Vijayaba Pirivena and Rathapatha Viharaya were destroyed by Thom De Souza in 1580 AD. Only a few granite pillars survived. The temple was rebuilt in 1765 by Pallattara Thero.

Sri Rahula Thero died on 27th September 1491 at the age of 82. After his death, the villagers reached Vijayaba Pirivena and placed his body (with growing hair and nails) in the Ambana Indurugiri cave near Elpitiya for safety. It is said that Rahula Thero consumed a medicine (Sidhaloka Rasa) which will keep his body unchanged till the year 4230.

This unchangeability of his body was engraved in a verse on a copper sheet before his death. When the Portuguese reached Sri Lanka, they took possession of his body and sent it to Goa. It is said that the task of taking Rahul Thero’s body to Goa was entrusted to Christian missionary Francis Xavier. During the journey, Francis Xavier died at sea and Rahul Thero’s body was passed off as Francis Xavier’s.

Who was St. Francis Xavier

Christian missionary preacher St. Francis Xavier came to India in 1542 with a Portuguese convoy. He spread Christianity after reaching India. He was associated with the ‘Society of Jesus’. These people from Society of Jesus are called Jesuits.

After the arrival of St. Francis Xavier, by 1559, more than 350 Hindu temples were shut down in Goa. During this time, idol worshipping by Hindus was also banned. All efforts were made to make them leave Hinduism and adopt Christianity. Even after this, St. Xavier saw that his efforts to forcibly convert Hindus were not completely successful.

With time, he became convinced that the faith of Sanatan Dharma is intact. If he destroys temples, then people build temples in their homes. He saw that even after cutting people with sharp weapons, slitting their hands and necks and giving them immense torture, between Pheni (cheap liquor) and Sanatan Dharma, people chose Sanatan Dharma and embraced death.

Frustrated, Xavier wrote a letter to the King of Rome in which he described Hindus as an impure race and called them liars and deceivers. He said that their idols were black, ugly and scary as well as smeared with the smell of oil. After this, the worst period of torture on Hindus started. Francis Xavier completely took over Goa.

Religious policies were made to suppress Hindus and ‘non-believers’ who did not believe in the alleged power of Jesus were punished. Historians who wrote about this incident were also subjected to severe torture. They were either burnt by putting them in hot oil or sent to jail. Some such writers include Filippo Sasseti, Charles Delone, Claudius Buchanan etc.

For the first time in history, Hindus were forced to flee and migrate on a large scale. St. Francis Xavier went to preach Christianity not only in India but also in the Malay Peninsula, Sri Lanka, Japan, and China. It is said that he converted at least 30,000 people to Christianity in his lifetime.

The Society of Jesus or Jesuits, of which St. Francis Xavier was a part, enslaved people on a large scale. The Jesuits enslaved local tribes in America. They had more than 20,000 slaves at one time and they were employed in farms and other works. Keeping slaves and torturing them was justified many times. It was not considered against Christianity.

Bhopal: Gujarat ATS, NCB seize drugs worth more than ₹1800 crore from a factory, arrest key conspirators

OpIndia Staff
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Bhopal: Gujarat ATS, NCB seize drugs worth more than ₹1800 crore from a factory, arrest key conspirators

On Sunday, 6th October, Gujarat State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi announced that authorities had seized MD (mephedrone) drugs and their raw materials worth ₹1,814 crore from a factory in Bhopal.

The drug bust was jointly conducted by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). Key conspirators have also been arrested

Praising Gujarat ATS and NCB for the drug bust, Sanghavi wrote on X, “Kudos to Gujarat ATS and NCB (Ops), Delhi, for a massive win in the fight against drugs! Recently, they raided a factory in Bhopal and seized MD and materials used to manufacture MD, with a staggering total value of ₹1,814 crores”

“This achievement showcases the tireless efforts of our law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and abuse. Their collaborative efforts are crucial in safeguarding the health and security of our society. The dedication of our law enforcement agencies is truly commendable. Let’s continue to support them in their mission to make India a safer and healthier nation!” he emphasised.

The development came just days after Delhi Police seized over 500 kg of cocaine, reported to be worth around ₹2,000 crores, in a raid in South Delhi.

The drug bust is said to be the biggest ever in Delhi’s jurisdiction. Four persons were arrested in the operation.

The police have said that an international syndicate may have been involved too. The drugs seized included 562 kg of cocaine and 40 kg of marijuana.

Delhi police bust illegal weapons factory in Meerut, arrest owner Mashook Ali and supplier Ikram

ANI
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Delhi police bust illegal weapons factory in Meerut, arrest owner Mashook Ali and supplier Ikram

Delhi Police on Sunday arrested two persons for running an interstate illegal arms supply cartel in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut.

The arrested persons are a supplier and owner of the illegal weapons factory and were identified as Ikram and Mashook Ali, residents of Uttar Pradesh’ Meerut.

According to the police, 4 country-made pistols, 41 Barrels and 8 manufacturing tools of country-made pistols were recovered from a house in Meerut.

Delhi Police after receiving the information about Ikram coming to Delhi to supply illegal arms to some criminals, carried out an operation headed by Inspector Gaurav Choudhary and arrested Ikram.

Police recovered two country-made pistols and six live cartridges from Ikram’s possession.

A case under the Arms Act was registered against him.

Following interrogation, Ikram disclosed that he procured weapons from Mashook Ali, said police.

Based on technical surveillance and at the inputs by accused Ikram, the team succeeded in arresting Mashook Ali, from Meerut City, informed the police.

After interrogating Mashook, police raided an isolated Flat in Meerut’s Kashi Ram Colony, where a factory was set up for manufacturing illegal weapons.

He also confessed that he manufactured more than 80 country-made pistols, said police.

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

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