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Islamists claim ‘Yogi govt is taking revenge against Muslims’ over Kukrail Riverfront Project: The truth of encroachment removal and how false victimhood is at play

Siddhi Somani
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Islamists claim ‘Yogi govt is taking revenge against Muslims’ over Kukrail Riverfront Project: The truth of encroachment removal and how false victimhood is at play

As the demolition drive of illegal houses constructed and occupied in the Akbar Nagar area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is underway, several Islamists on social media platforms have come out claiming that the Yogi Adityanath government is deliberately targeting the Muslims in the state post-elections. The Islamists online are claiming that only Muslim families living in the Akbar Nagar area of Lucknow are being asked to vacate their homes before bulldozing their illegal properties for allegedly voting against the BJP.

“As soon as the elections are over, atrocities on Muslims have started. In Akbarpur, the UP government has demolished the houses and mosques of Muslims with bulldozers for voting against the BJP. Thousands of families have been living here for half a century with valid documents and now they will become homeless,” said one Nadeem Ahmed on X sharing the video of the ongoing demolition.

Controversial activist Teesta Setalvaad, who has been accused in several cases, also happened to propagate this video by asking Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and SP’s Akhilesh Yadav to speak over the issue.

Further, a similar video was shared by one of the users identified as Ishan who indicated that Yogi Adityanath was doing absolutely right by teaching a lesson to ‘jihadists’.

However, it is important to note that the demolition drive in Akbarpur, Lucknow, is a drive against encroachment which the state has undertaken to make the Kukrail riverfront project a reality.

While several Islamists as well as people like Teesta Setalvad claimed that only Muslims were targeted, a live report by India TV clarified that not only Muslims, but several other Hindu families have also faced evacuation from the area. The India TV reporter on the ground highlighted the list of residents who were asked by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) to vacate their illegal properties before the ultimate bulldozer action.

The list of names includes several Hindus identified as Asha Devi, Devi Prasad, Amit Kumar, Sham Kashyap, Ramesh Chandra, etc who have lost their properties to the demolition drive.

Screenshot from India TV live report

Also, a local news media Ultah Chashma reported that several Hindu families have suffered massive losses due to the ongoing demolition drive amid the Kukrail riverfront project. Several Hindus while talking to the local news channel expressed their anger over the demolition and said that it was not right for the government to force Akbar Nagar residents to leave the locality.

“We have been staying here for more than 50 years now. This is not how they should force us to leave. If we are staying here illegally, why were we provided with electricity and water connections? Why are our names mentioned in the Nagar Nigam records?” asked one of the enraged Hindu residents.

Islamists and some vested interest groups have been trying to peddle the false claim that the evacuation or demolition drive is specifically targeted against Muslims, for allegedly ‘not voting for the BJP’. Which is a blatant lie. The process of encroachment removal was started long back.

The recent Lok Sabha election results in the state of Uttar Pradesh were rather unexpected with NDA securing 36 seats, 7 less than I.N.D.I Alliance which secured 43 seats. The Islamists and the vested interest groups are trying to insinuate that the Yogi govt in the state is now seeking vengeance against Muslims for not giving them votes.

Why is the demolition drive happening in Abar Nagar, Lucknow, and since when the process has been going on?

However heart-aching it is to watch, it is important to note that all the houses and commercial properties that are being razed down by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) are illegal. Several families years ago started staying on the banks of the Kukrail River and eventually permanent structures were constructed. Consecutive governments overlooked the encroachment and constriction of the crucial water body for reasons best known to them.

The LDA in the year 2023 had asked the residents to vacate their homes to carry out the anti-encroachment drive by sending notices and letters. The residents of Akbar Nagar in Lucknow then knocked on the doors of the High Court getting a breather ahead of the demolition drive in the area.

On June 10th this year, however, the LDA began the demolition drive to make the Kukrail riverfront project a reality. The entire area had been closed, and traffic was diverted to allow for the demolition drive, which was scheduled in two shifts. Eight companies of the Uttar Pradesh Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and the Rapid Action Force (RPF) have been deployed to maintain law and order.

Residents began packing their possessions as soon as the LDA officials arrived with the bulldozers for demolition, and several of them fiercely opposed the government’s conduct. Notably, the LDA had earlier issued notices and the admin officials had also been warning the residents of the demolition drive over loudspeakers.

Legal process was followed, Supreme Court allowed demolition drive

A Supreme Court panel consisting of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta gave legal clearance to the demolition on May 10th. It supported the Allahabad High Court’s order on the demolition effort against “unauthorized construction” in the Akbar Nagar area, an essentially Muslim area, and stated that no one should be removed until the LDA provides alternative housing.

Another fact is that this is not the first demolition drive either. The demolition work has been progressing in phases. In February this year, around 78 slum houses were cleared. Among the slum residents some had already chosen alternate housing under the PM Awas Yojna and Vasant Kunj Yojna. Some did not seek a stay on the demolition. The LDA had followed the due legal process and proceeded with announcement well ahead of the demolition.

The first bulldozer entered Akbar Nagar on December 21, 2023, but before demolition work could begin, the Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow bench imposed a stay, however, no final injunction was made to stop the demolition.

How the Kukrail river was encroached and illegal immigrants were settled under SP govt

The Kukrail River was believed to be a drain around which several illegal immigrants built their houses. The river has a history of 200 years with its initial documented mention in a 1904 gazetteer, as per a detailed report by Times of India. As per a professor at the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, who is advising the Yogi government on the Kukrail project, the 28-km-long Kukrail river covered a basin of around 192 sq km. However, during the regime of the Samajwadi Party, several illegal immigrants began staying on the banks of the river eventually forcing it to shrink to a drain.

How badly the Kukrail river was encroached upon: image via TOI

The area where the current demolition drive is being undertaken was actually handed over to the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) for development in 1980. The LDA then identified 283 illegal constructions on the flood-prone bank by 1984. However, the number happened to increase to 1200 in the year 2023. It was learned later that several illegal immigrants were allowed to settle in the area by the SP regime. Several land mafias faked the documents to sell properties that have now been razed to grounds. “The land mafia faked documents to construct multi-storey buildings and large showrooms on the Kukrail River. They duped poor, gullible people, and facilitated the development of an illegal colony in Akbarnagar, leading to the river’s decline,” the professor was quoted as saying.

It is in the year 2023 that the Yogi Adityanat government decided to bring the Kukrail river back to life. The government identified illegal settlements and ordered their demolition in the wake of the Kukrail riverfront project.

So far 105 illegal properties have been razed to ground (ANI)

Kukrail Riverfront Project, and alternate housing provided by Govt

Notably, the residents who have lost their properties to the demolition drive have been given resettlement houses under PM Awas Yojana. Efforts are being taken by the government to resettle other sufferers. “Genuine Indian citizens who had been cheated by the land mafia to get settled here have been taken care of. Over 1,800 such families have been allotted houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana,” the government officials said.

The government is undertaking the demolition drive to make the Kukrail Riverfront Project, a reality. The project involves not just the removal of illegal encroachment on river bed and floodplains, but also the revival of ponds and smaller water bodies in the Asti area where the kukrail generates.

So far, 105 illegal properties have been razed to the ground. Under this project, efforts are being made to maintain and enhance the area’s natural beauty, as well as to regenerate the Kukrail River. The state administration has been tasked with monitoring the beautification of 22 ponds spread around the Asti locality. These ponds would serve as a feeder for the Kukrail River and also serve as vital reservoirs of water and havens for biodiversity.

Further by renewing the riverbed and maintaining uninterrupted flow, the river will gain new life, and the ecology will be safeguarded, reducing the risk of floods during the monsoon season.

The state plans the Kukrail riverfront project to enhance the beauty of Lucknow, and prevent the frequent floods that are worsened by encroachments. Earlier the banks were vacant but slowly several families came in and began staying illegally on the banks. The government now plans to make the Kukrail riverfront a famous picnic spot with boating, street food and sports facilities. All the illegal properties for this purpose have been possessed back by the government. All these residents who have been illegally staying in the locality will be given alternative homes under the PM Awas Yojana as suggested by the media reports.

Kannada actor arrested for the brutal murder of his fan: From domestic abuse to setting dogs on a woman, here’s a list of his past violent behaviours

OpIndia Staff
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Kannada actor arrested for the brutal murder of his fan: From domestic abuse to setting dogs on a woman, here’s a list of his past violent behaviours

On Tuesday, May 11, police arrested popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa from his farmhouse in Mysore and took him to Bengaluru. The court has sent him to a 6-day police remand. The actor has been accused of being involved in the alleged murder of a man named RenukaSwamy, whose body was found in Bengaluru on June 9.

Along with the actor, the police also arrested his partner Pavithra Gowda and 10 others in connection with the matter. Reportedly, three people confessed to the murder and said they committed the crime allegedly on the instructions of actor Darshan.

Swamy worked at an Apollo Pharmacy branch in Chitradurga and had allegedly posted “obscene messages” on social media on Darshan’s girlfriend and co-star Pavithra Gowda.

Swamy’s parents had filed a missing complaint after he went missing. Based on this complaint, the police arrested Darshan Thoogudeepa on Tuesday.

“The 33-year-old man, who has been murdered, has been identified as Renuka Swamy. At first glance, it seems that the deceased had sent objectionable messages to Darshan’s girlfriend,” said B Dayanand, Bengaluru police chief.

Reportedly, residents who said they witnessed stray dogs pulling a body out of a drain called the police to report the murder. The body had marks of injuries. Investigation into the death of this person led to the arrest of some suspects who allegedly directed the police to the Kannada actor.

The police are probing into whether Darshan was directly involved in the murder or was part of the conspiracy.

What transpired and how the incident unfolded

The police revealed that RenukaSwamy had criticised Pavithra in his Instagram comments, suggesting she was a “third wheel” between Darshan and his wife Vijayalakshmi. 

Pavithra, a small-time actress in her late 30s, was reportedly offended by the remarks and complained to Darshan. The actor chose, according to the police, to confront Renukaswamy. According to police sources, he requested that Raghavendra, a fan association member in Chitradurga, bring Renukaswamy to Bengaluru. On the evening of June 8, Raghavendra took Renukaswamy to a shed located in RR Nagar, a western suburb of Bengaluru.

Pattanagere Jayanna, a local businessman and one of the suspects’ uncles, is the owner of the land. A few of them were already waiting in the shed. Renukaswamy protested that he was also a fan of the actor, but the suspects disregarded his plea and thrashed him.

Police suspect Darshan, too, was present at the shed at the time RenukaSwamy was brutally assaulted to death.

According to the Deccan Herald, the CCTV footage showed two vehicles, a red Jeep Wrangler allegedly owned by Darshan and a dark SUV, leaving the shed at 3:27:13 in the morning on June 9.

On June 9, at approximately eight in the morning, a security guard at the Sattva Anugraha apartment complex in Sumanahalli discovered the body dumped by a stormwater drain on the road. He made a call to the police informing them about the unidentified body. The head, face, ears, and other body parts all had injury marks while some parts had been bitten off by stray dogs.

Following the victim’s identification, a murder and evidence destruction investigation was opened by the Kamakshipalya police jurisdiction.

While the police were conducting an inquiry, four suspects, including one Karthik and Keshava Murthy, turned themselves in to the police that same day, saying they had killed Renukaswamy over a financial dispute.

Four suspects, including Karthik and Keshava Murthy, turned themselves in to the police that same day, saying they had killed Renukaswamy over a financial dispute, while the police were conducting an inquiry. Police, however, decided to delve into it more after finding their confessions to be dubious. Eventually, the suspects disclosed the identities of their accomplices and implicated the Kannada actor.

A police team was sent to Mysuru to detain Darshan. Pavithra and ten other suspects were also arrested. The 24th ACMM court remanded all of them in police custody for six days. 

Police have also invoked IPC Section 120B related to criminal conspiracy. 

Kannada actor Darshan and his history of violent behaviour

Darshan is a popular Kannada actor who is dubbed “Challenging Star” by his fans. Darshan began his career in television, after which he transitioned to the big screen by debuting as the lead in the 2002 film “Majestic”. Some of his superhit films include ‘Kalasipalya’, ‘Saarathi’, ‘Yajamana’, ‘Roberrt’. He was last seen in ‘Kaatera’, which hit theatres in 2023. Darshan, along with being one of the most celebrated actors in Kannada cinema, is also a producer and distributor of Sandalwood.

However, despite being a big name in the Kannada film industry, Darshan has been embroiled in several controversies.

Recently, Darshan was accused of partying over the deadline of one in the morning. The actor was at the Jetlag Restobar in Bengaluru in January this year, to celebrate the success of his film Kaatera. The Bengaluru police had in April 2024, filed an FIR against Darshan, actors Abhishek Ambareesh, producer-director Rockline Venkatesh, and Dhananjaya, as they reportedly continued a party past the deadline with loud music. The police had also issued notices to Darshan and the others who were involved.

In November last year, the Kannada actor was accused of setting dogs on a woman who parked her car near his residence. An FIR has been registered against him under IPC section 289 stating negligence on Darshan’s part. The police, however, later claimed that Darshan was not present at the scene when the incident happened and that the woman claimed they were the actor’s dogs.

In January 2023, Darshan was booked under the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) 1972 for illegally possessing bar-headed geese and other migratory birds.

In December 2022, the Kannada actor was embroiled in a major controversy after he made a disparaging remark against the Goddess of luck. During an interview for his film Kranti, Darshan reportedly said, “The Goddess of Luck does not always come knocking on your door. So, when she does come, grab her, drag her, and lock her in your bedroom without giving her clothes.” A huge backlash followed this remark, with one of his fans hurling a slipper at him during an event in Hospet.

In July 2021, Darshan was accused of assaulting a waiter at a hotel in Mysuru. Later, the waiter was, however, paid Rs 50,000 to cover up the case, and no charges were filed against the actor.

The same year, Kannada film producer Bharat filed a complaint against Darshan, stating that the actor had been threatening him.

In March 2016, Darshan’s wife Vijayalakshmi filed a police complaint against the actor, wherein she stated that Darshan assaulted her again and threatened to shoot her. Upon investigation, the doctors found bruises and a wound on Vijayalakshmi’s head that had required four sutures. When police had produced Darshan in court, he claimed that he was intoxicated and had no memory of the incident.

In September 2011, the actor was accused of domestic violence and abuse by his wife Vijayalakshmi. She had, for the first time, complained that Darshan assaulted her.

Although they never got a formal divorce, their relationship turned turbulent and was marked by several separations because of alleged domestic abuse and violence. In September 2011, Vijayalakshmi filed a case against her actor husband Darshan in the family court, which was ultimately resolved out of court.

Recently, actor Pavithra publicly confirmed that she was in a relationship with Darshan for over ten years despite his being married to Vijayalakshmi. “One decade down, forever to go. We’ve been together for ten years. Thank you,” Pavithra captioned her Instagram post where she highlighted the time spent with Darshan.

After the post went viral, Darshan’s wife Vijayalakshmi threatened legal action against Pavithra. The latter replied with a photo of a “diya,” expressing her love and care for Darshan and the abuse she and her daughter had endured over the past ten years. Darshan has not yet commented on this issue.

UGC approves 2 admission cycles for Indian Universities: A game changer for Students

OpIndia Staff
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UGC approves 2 admission cycles for Indian Universities: A game changer for Students

On 11th June, the University Grants Commission (UGC) allowed Universities and higher education institutions to offer admissions twice a year. The system of biannual admissions is common in foreign universities. With UGC’s go-ahead, Indian students will soon have the option to apply to a college twice a year. According to UGC Chief Jagadesh Kumar, there will be two admission cycles, that are July-August and January-February from 2024-25 academic sessions.

At the moment, universities and colleges in India offer only one admission cycle per year that falls in July-August. All the Higher Education Institutions in India follow the academic session that starts in July-August and ends in May-June.

Speaking to media, Jagadeesh Kumar said, “If Indian universities can offer admission twice a year, it will benefit many students such as those who missed admission to a university in the July-August session due to a delay in the announcement of board results, health issues, or personal reasons.”

He added, “If Indian universities can offer admission twice a year, it will benefit many students such as those who missed admission to a university in the July-August session due to a delay in the announcement of board results, health issues, or personal reasons.”

Kumar said that universities worldwide already follow a biannual admission system. If Indian Higher Education Institutes adopt this system, it will enhance such institutes’ international collaborations and student exchanges. “As a result, our global competitiveness will improve, and we will align with the global educational standards,” he added.

One of the main issues that universities may face while offering a biannual admission cycle is the availability of resources. Kumar emphasised that the institutes that already have the infrastructure and can realign it to provide admission options twice a year may opt for such a system. He said, “As a result, our global competitiveness will improve, and we will align with the global educational standards,” Kumar said”.

Notably, UGC has not mandated the biannual admission system. HEIs and Universities are free to continue with a single admission cycle as they do at the moment. Kumar said, “If HEIs adopt biannual admissions, they need to work on administrative intricacies, good planning for increased use of available resources, and providing seamless support systems for the smooth transition of students admitted at dissimilar times of the year. HEIs can maximize the usefulness of biannual admissions only when they sufficiently prepare faculty members, staff and students for the transition.”

Interestingly, biannual admissions in open and distance learning (ODL) and online modes in January and July during an academic year were allowed by UGC last year. Kumar said that after UGC allowed biannual admissions last year, HEIs informed on the UGC portal that a total of 19,73,056 students enrolled in July (regular cycle) and an additional 4,28,854 students joined in January 2023 in ODL and online programs. Around 22% of additional admissions was a notable boost for the institutions.

Mixed reaction from universities

Though the decision is a welcoming move for the students, UGC’s announcement received mixed reactions from universities as they expressed concerns that the current academic structure is not suited for such an arrangement. Speaking to Hindustan Times, an unnamed Delhi University official said, “We are dependent on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), which is conducted around May. UGC has not given any clear guidelines on whether the January admission cycle will happen through CUET or entrance exams.”

The concern was addressed by Kumar who said that it will be up to the universities to decide their admission process.

Amity University Vice Chancellor Balvinder Shukla although seemed happy with the decision, he too expressed concerns about the Indian institutions having the required infrastructure for the biannual admission cycle. He said, “There are a lot of things to consider before jumping into a decision. Moreover, school academic sessions and the beginning of college admissions are aligned in a certain way. There is a possibility that applications during the January cycle will be very low.”

Experts believe that universities have to come up with meticulous planning to implement a biannual admission cycle. However, they added that such an arrangement is “in sync with the National Education Policy (NEP) and will only bring us closer to international standards”.

‘Ploy to disturb the Amarnath Yatra’: Jammu ADGP on the Kathua terror attack

ANI
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‘Ploy to disturb the Amarnath Yatra’: Jammu ADGP on the Kathua terror attack

One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing gunfight in the border area of Hiranagar in Kathua district after ultras attacked a house in Saida Sukhal village here, a senior police officer said.

The search operation is on to nab the other terrorist, said Anand Jain, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Jammu.

“They also fired at civilians. One terrorist has been killed and a search for the other one is going on,” he said.

The Jammu ADGP further said that the attack seems to be a ploy to disturb the Amarnath Yatra.

“As Amarnath yatra is approaching, this seems to be a ploy to disturb the yatra. One civilian is injured and there is no hostage situation,” Jain said.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh also took to his official X handle and posted, “I am in continuous online contact with DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas in the wake of a terrorist attack on a house in village Saida in Hiranagar sector close to the International Border. I am also in touch with SSP Kathua Sh Anayat Ali Choudhary who is on the spot. The owner of the house that was attacked (name not to be disclosed) is also in touch on mobile phone. A joint police and para-military operation are going on. One terrorist neutralised so far. I and my office are in constant touch and keeping a close watch on the developments.”

Earlier, after gunshots were heard in the village Saida Sukhal near Koota Mode under the Hiranagar police station area of Kathua in late Tuesday evening, Station house officer (SHO) Hiranagar and Sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) rushed to the spot.

As per the police, the terrorists had asked for water from a few houses to which villagers grew suspicious and slammed the doors on them. The terrorists panicked and fired randomly in the air and also at villagers who were passing by.

One terrorist got killed while lobbing a grenade at the police party while the search for the other terrorist was on, police said.

Meanwhile, two civilians injured in firing by terrorists in Hiranagar were initially brought to the Hiranagar hospital for treatment. However, they were shifted to Kathua Government Medical College (GMC) for further treatment.

Police with the help of CRPF have cordoned the area. A search party is clearing the houses one by one. So far, one family of husband and wife has been evacuated to hospital.

The Jammu & Kashmir police also urged the citizens to wait for authentic information and not indulge in spreading different narratives that are unverified. Citing it as a national security challenge posed by hostile elements from across, the police said in a statement, “Citizens are requested to assist and cooperate with the police in completing the operation logically and successfully so that the terrorists are killed and simultaneously the injured (if found) are evacuated for treatment.

Notably, two encounters going on right now, one in Kathua’s Hiranagar and the other one in Chattergala Baderwah in Doda district.

“#Army and #Police joint Naka has engaged #terrorist in area of Chattargala area of #Doda . Firefight is going on. More details to follow,” the ADGP said in a post on X.

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

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists open fire at Indian Army operating base in Doda, three personnel injured; third attack in last three days

OpIndia Staff
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Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists open fire at Indian Army operating base in Doda, three personnel injured; third attack in last three days

After Reasi and Kathua, terrorists attacked a temporary Indian Army operating base in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda area on Tuesday, June 11. This is the third such attack in the Jammu region in the last three days.

Operations are underway. One terrorist was neutralised, and a civilian was injured. Five soldiers and a special police officer (SPO) were injured in the shootout.

On the Doda incident, Anand Jain, Additional Director General of Police, Jammu zone, who is supervising the anti-terrorist operation said that late last night, terrorists opened fire on a police and Rashtriya Rifles combined team at an army base in the Chattargala area. An encounter is underway between the security forces and the terrorists in the higher reaches, he said.

“One terrorist was neutralised, and one civilian was injured but is now out of danger. The operation is still ongoing, and senior officers are at the spot,” he added.

This terrorist attack in the Doda district occurred just hours after terrorists opened fire on a house in the Hiranagar area of Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the police, one of the two terrorists who engaged in the attack in Kathua yesterday night has been killed. Drones are currently being used by security personnel in Kathua’s Hiranagar area to search for the second one.

According to the authorities, the locals became suspicious of the terrorists after they asked for water from multiple homes, and they resorted to shooting when someone raised an alarm.

Denying media reports that three people died in the Kathua attack, Jain confirmed that one civilian was injured in the firing.

“There are rumours that many people are injured and three are dead. But only one civilian was injured, other than this all information regarding hostages being held and death, are rumours,” he said.

The Additional Director General of Police, Jammu zone called the Kathua attack a “fresh infiltration” and hinted at Pakistan without explicitly naming it.

The first attack was on June 9, Sunday, at Reasi when the terrorists opened fire at a 53-seater bus when it was en route from Shiv Khori temple to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine at Katra near Teryath village in the Poni area. The bus veered off the road and fell into the steep valley. At least 10 people, including a child and three women, were killed and more than 40 others were injured in the deadly attack.

USA: Joe Biden’s son Hunter convicted in all three felony charges at federal gun trial, had lied about his drug habit

ANI
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USA: Joe Biden’s son Hunter convicted in all three felony charges at federal gun trial, had lied about his drug habit

Hunter Biden, the eldest living son of the US president, has been convicted of all three felony charges related to the purchase of a revolver when, prosecutors argued, the president’s son lied on a mandatory gun-purchase form by saying he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs, CNN reported.

The jury, which deliberated for just under three hours, returned guilty verdicts on all three charges, which stemmed from a revolver Hunter Biden bought in October 2018 at a Delaware gun shop.

The first two counts were for lying about his drug use on a federal background check form, and the third count was for possessing a gun while addicted to, or using, illegal drugs.

His trial on gun charges began on June 3.

According to CNN. the former president’s son is accused of lying on federal documents regarding his drug usage at the time of the weapon’s purchase, obtaining a revolver illegally while under the influence of narcotics.

After the verdict, Hunter left the courtroom with his wife. US District Judge Maryellen Noreika stated that she would set the sentencing date later.

According to reports, on two charges, Hunter may face a sentence of up to 10 years and in the third case, he may face prison for up to five years, as per CNN.

This is the first time that the child of a US president has been tried on criminal charges and convicted.

Hunter Biden could face up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to USD 750,000 at sentencing, though he likely will receive far less than the maximum as a first-time offender.

Before dismissing the parties, the judge told them sentencing is usually set for 120 days following a verdict, which means it is likely to happen before Election Day.

Prosecutors declined to comment following the verdict. Hunter Biden is expected to issue a written statement, a source familiar with the matter said.

In the moments following the verdict, after court ended, Hunter Biden turned around to his legal team and flashed a brief smile, perhaps stunned by the outcome, before hugging all of his attorneys and patting them on the back.

As he exited, Hunter Biden gave kisses and hugs to family members and friends in the courtroom, almost like a receiving line. His friend and financial backer, Kevin Morris, walked out with his arms crossed. Some of the supporters looked stunned.

Valerie Biden, President Biden’s sister, entered the courtroom a few minutes after the verdict was read.

Leaving the courthouse after the verdict, Hunter Biden shuffled his family members into an elevator as he held hands with his wife. He smiled briefly and left. 

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

Jammu & Kashmir: 35-year old chemist Amarjit Sharma found dead with his throat slit open in Kathua

OpIndia Staff
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Jammu & Kashmir: 35-year old chemist Amarjit Sharma found dead with his throat slit open in Kathua

On Sunday night, June 9, a Hindu Chemist Amarjit Sharma was found dead in Kathua in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir with this throat slit open. Sharma was found dead outside his house in Mela village by his family members after they started searching for him when he didn’t return home, officials said

Following the brutal murder of Amarjit Sharma, his relatives and neighbours demanded immediate arrest of the unidentified culprits who murdered Sharma.

Following the murder, hundreds of people, carrying Amarjit Sharma’s body, blocked Jammu-Pathankot highway and the nearby railway track in nearby Hiranagar area on Monday morning. The Police and local authorities assured the protestors that a case has been registered and investigation is on, after that assurance, the protestors dispersed.

The protest ended nearly two hours after it started following the assurance by local authorities.

Notably, in same Hiranagar area of Kathua, gunshots were reportedly heard by villagers on Tuesday, June 11, police said. Upon receiving the information, the police rushed to the spot. Further details are awaited.

Jammu & Kashmir: Two days after the tragic Reasi terror attack, Gunshots heard in Hiranagar area of Kathua

ANI
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Jammu & Kashmir: Two days after the tragic Reasi terror attack, Gunshots heard in Hiranagar area of Kathua

Two days after the terror attack in Reasi in which ten pilgrims were killed, gunshots were reportedly heard by villagers in the Hiranagar area of Kathua on Tuesday, police said. Upon receiving the information, the police rushed to the spot. Further details are awaited.

Meanwhile, Reasi Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan confirmed on Sunday night that at least 10 people were killed in the terror attack and 33 others were injured.

According to officials, the bus, en route from the Shiv Khori shrine to Katra, was targetted by terrorists at around 06.10 pm when it reached Pouni area of Reasi district bordering Rajouri district. “Terrorists opened fire, causing the driver to lose control and the bus to plunge into a gorge,” Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Mohita Sharma told ANI.

The SSP further said that the rescue operations are complete and the injured have been taken to Naraina and Reasi District hospitals.

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha condemned the attack and assured action against those behind it. “I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on a bus in Reasi. My condolences to the family members of the martyred civilians. Our security forces and JKP have launched a joint operation to hunt down the terrorists,” the LG said in a post on X.

“PM Narendra Modi Ji took stock of the situation and has asked me to constantly monitor the situation. All those behind this heinous act will be punished soon. PM has also directed that all the injured are provided the best possible medical care & assistance,” the J-K LG added.

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

Pakistani fans used to shatter their TVs over cricket matches, this time, a security guard killed a YouTuber when asked about the India-Pakistan match

OpIndia Staff
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Pakistani fans used to shatter their TVs over cricket matches, this time, a security guard killed a YouTuber when asked about the India-Pakistan match

After high-octane clashes between India and Pakistan in the past, there were often reports from Pakistan about fans breaking their TVs, emotionally breaking down on social media, or the national team changing its captain or coach. However, this time, it has gone to an extreme.

In Karachi, which is considered the economic capital of Pakistan, a security guard killed a YouTuber over a question about the much-hyped cricket match. Notably, the YouTuber was asking people questions about the India-Pakistan match in the T20 Cricket World Cup, but the security guard got angry and ended up shooting him dead.

(Video Courtesy – Pakistani news channel Geo News TV)

According to reports, the YouTuber’s name was Saad Ahmed. He was 24 years old and the father of two children. Saad used to make vlogs for his YouTube channel. He was taking video bites from people in Karachi’s mobile market. During this time, he tried to ask the security guard something, but the angry security guard shot him at point-blank range. Saad immediately fell to the ground. People tried to lift and help him for a few seconds and rushed him to the hospital, but he died on the way.

The police arrested the accused security guard on the same day (5th June). The accused guard claimed that he did not know how the bullet was fired from the gun. He said that he does not know how to use a gun. He also mentioned that he is the father of five children and does not know what will happen to them now. This news from Karachi has left everyone shocked.

It is pertinent to note that this news reached the people of India after the ICC T-20 Cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan had already concluded. In a close contest, India defeated Pakistan by 6 runs. The Indian batters posted a low score of 119 runs in 20 overs. However, when Pakistan came out to bat, they struggled to chase down a run-a-ball target and scored only 113 runs in their quota of 20 overs. After the humbling defeat at the hands of arch-rivals India, Pakistani cricket fans have been venting their anger at their national team.

Pakistan: Islamists vandalise dilapidated Ram Temple in Sindh, desecrate, and cover Hindu religious symbols with spray paint, steal deities’ Idols, and copies of Geeta

OpIndia Staff
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Pakistan: Islamists vandalise dilapidated Ram Temple in Sindh, desecrate, and cover Hindu religious symbols with spray paint, steal deities’ Idols, and copies of Geeta

The Islamist attacks on Hindu temples have been rampant in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, with two major incidents of vandalism and theft being reported in less than a month from the country’s Sindh province. While, Pakistani mainstream media has often blackened out reports of persecution of minorities, according to Rights watchers and minority groups, Islamists didn’t even spare a dilapidated Ram temple in the Kacchi Colony of the Tando Adam area in Sindh. 

According to the information received, on 7th June, Islamist miscreants caused vandalism at the dilapidated temple in the Kacchi Colony in an overnight attack. They desecrated the Hindu temple and stole idols of Hindu deities and several copies of Geeta, the Holy Book despite the temple doors being locked. They also covered revered Hindu religious symbols including Om with spray paint.

https://twitter.com/hindurefugees/status/1799439854742421690

https://twitter.com/voice_minority/status/1800417579682476436

Last month, Islamists looted and desecrated an ancient Hindu temple in Sochi Pada, Tando Adam which falls in Sindh’s Nawabshah district. 


According to reports, the robbers stormed the temple by breaking the main gate and indulged in vandalism. The incident occurred at the revered temple dedicated to Hindu Lord Ramapir. The theft included a silver idol and crown of Lord Ramapir. They also stole jewelry worth lakhs, cash worth around Rs 70,000 from a donation box, and other valuable items. The attack sparked outrage among the local Hindu community and raised concerns about the safety and preservation of religious sites in the region.

https://twitter.com/voice_minority/status/1791733493849821417

“Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday took notice of the theft of idols and other valuables from the “Rama Pir” temple in Tando Adam and has sought a report from concerned authorities,” Pakistani outlet ARY News reported on 17th May, this year. 

(Video Courtesy – Pakistani News Channel ARY News)

According to the ARY News report, Sindh CM Shah directed the IG Police to recover all stolen goods including idols, and sought a report. Murad Ali Shah said that no high-handedness toward minorities would not be tolerated (sic). 

The report added that CM Murad Ali Shah also directed the IG Sindh to submit a progress report regarding the recovery of the child abducted three days ago from Pano Aqil. He also sought a report regarding the recovery of the abductees in the last three days. 

It is pertinent to note that the Rama Pir temple is one of the third largest pilgrimage sites for the Hindus in Sindh. It is situated in the heart of Tando Allayar in Sindh. Thousands of local Hindus visit the temple to seek blessings. 

In the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Hindu temples have been prone to incidences of looting and desecration, with the Pakistani establishment accused of being in cohorts with the Islamists in these attacks.  

It has been reported that Hindu temples have been converted into Mosques, Madrasas, chicken shops, cattle farms, and sometimes even toilets, underscoring the atrocities against minority Hindus and their places of worship.

Amidst a string of attacks on Hindu temples in Pakistan, two major incidents were reported last year. In November 2023, Hinglaj Mata Mandir in Sindh and the UNESCO-recognised site Sharda Peeth Temple were demolished.  

Earlier, in July 2023, over 150-year-old Hindu temple was bulldozed to the ground in Karachi, and another Mandir was attacked by ‘rocket launchers’ in Sindh. Both incidents took place within less than 24 hours. 

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