The anticipated Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu is under the shadow of uncertainty as the indefinite strike declared by Tamil Nadu Transport Corporation (TNSTC) workers has thrown travel plans into disarray for numerous passengers.
Following unsuccessful negotiations with transport authorities on 8 January 2024, union representatives announced on Tuesday that they would proceed with the indefinite strike. The strike, led by workers associated with prominent unions such as the Centre of Indian Trade Union (CITU), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), and Anna Thozhir Sanga Peravai (ATSP), among others, is fueled by a range of demands.
The primary grievances include the implementation of the old pension scheme, the release of pending dearness allowance, the filling up of vacant posts, and the initiation of talks regarding the 15th wage revision. Despite the pressing nature of these demands, the government, in response, conveyed that discussions could only be entertained post-Pongal, leaving the workers dissatisfied.
CITU leader A Soundararajan expressed disappointment, labeling the government’s response as unjust and unsatisfactory. He remarked, “This is not the reply someone would expect from the government. With great regret, we would like to point out that the government is seeing the transport workers as second-class citizens.”
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Arappor Iyakkam a socialworking group and NGO has expressed dissatisfaction with the inactive state of the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti Corruption (DVAC), stating that the anti corruption department in Chennai appears to be dormant despite its responsibilities.
The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption in Chennai has been criticized for its apparent inactivity over the past four months, focusing primarily on apprehending government employees accepting bribes of ₹500 and ₹1000. Only two cases have been registered during this period, raising questions about the department’s effectiveness.
Concerns have been raised about the department’s delayed response to various corruption complaints, uncovers including the need for permission from the Governor to file a charge sheet in 25 complaints against Veeramani, and the slow progress in investigating tenders set in Chennai, Coimbatore and corruption complaints in the ration and coal import sectors.
The lack of chargesheets and FIRs in numerous complaints during the three-year tenure of the DMK regime, led by Chief Minister Stalin, is also highlighted.
Arappor Iyakkam in their X handle sharply reacted in a lengthy X post. Here’s the translation of the same:
“The anti-bribery department in Chennai has been sleeping on sleeping pills without doing any work for the last 4 months except catching government employees who take bribes of ₹500, ₹1000.
A total of 2 cases have been registered in the last 4 months. Why should hundreds of individuals receive salaries amounting to crores for their lack of productivity? Apart from waiting for permission from the Governor to file a chargesheet against Veeramani in the 25 corruption complaints filed by Arappor, what is the progress on other complaints?
Despite the court’s directive to file a chargesheet in the complaint regarding the tender issuances in Chennai and Coimbatore for the associates of former Minister Velumani are you getting paid to keep the documents on your head and snore for months?
When will the investigation into the 2000 crore corruption allegations against the Christy institution in the ration sector be concluded?
When do you plan to initiate an investigation into the corruption complaint involving 6000 crores against Adani and other companies in the coal import case?
When do you plan to initiate an investigation into the accusation of 400 crores being embezzled through the manipulation of tenders for the procurement of transformers in the Tamil Nadu electricity sector during the DMK regime?
3 years of DMK rule is about to end. So far, no chargesheet has been filed in any of the complaints lodged by the Arappor. In many complaints, even FIR is not lodged. Many cases not even preliminary investigations have been initiated and the files are gathering dust. Is this a sign of the DMK regime under the leadership of Chief Minister Stalin? Does protecting the corruption of the opposition parties is your social justice?
For such inactivity why should there be anti corruption department in tamil nadu? Instead let’s close it and announce that we have eradicated bribery in Tamil Nadu..!”
500, 1000 என்று லஞ்சம் வாங்கும் அரசு ஊழியர்களை பிடிப்பதை தவிர கடந்த 4 மாதங்களாக எந்த வேலையும் செய்யாமல் சென்னையில் லஞ்ச ஒழிப்புத்துறை தூக்க மாத்திரை சாப்பிட்டு தூங்கிக் கொண்டு இருக்கிறது.
கடந்த 4 மாதங்களில் மொத்தமே 2 வழக்குகள் தான் பதிவு செய்யப்பட்டுள்ளது. இதுக்கு எதுக்கு… pic.twitter.com/z52fbSBGT5
The apparent failure to initiate even preliminary investigations adds to the dissatisfaction, prompting questions about the government’s commitment to combating corruption and upholding social justice.
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A comedian turned conspiracy theorist and right-wing opportunist who has probably never seen success is in the news – for riling up Indian Twitter by spewing hate against Indians and Hindus, to be precise. Owen Benjamin is the man in question and over the years in his “career” as a comedian, he is seen to exhibit a consistent lack of intelligence, relying solely on the gimmick of making outrageous statements to grab attention.
A former Islamophobe who made controversial statements about Islam and the Quran, suddenly “embraced” and started loving Islam a few years ago. Owen, in a podcast with TheDeenShowTV, said, “I had always thought that you guys hated Jesus Muslims reading the Koran strapping bombs to themselves and running into a concert to kill white people I can’t believe I fell for that lie”.
Who Is He?
Did you know, apart from being a failed comedian, Owen Benjamin is a Holocaust denier, a flat-earth believer, a cult leader, an anti-vaxxer, apart from being anti-LGBTQ+++
A little background about Owen Benjamin, who is attempting to resurrect his failed career by dissing India. Dumped by a Hollywood actress, holocaust denier, cancelled for using the n-word, violater of zoning provisions, helming a cult… quite a character.https://t.co/thmmIhCF3p
Let’s delve a little into his past (recent). In 2019, comedian and actor Owen Benjamin, banned from major social media platforms for racist, antisemitic, and abusive content, is openly evading the ban on Instagram. Despite being primarily active on alternative platforms like Gab, BitChute, and Odysee, Benjamin and his followers exploit lax enforcement on Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter, spreading content and evading bans. Benjamin, a leader of the “Unbearables” cult, engages regularly in harassment campaigns, promotes anti-LGBTQ, racist, and antisemitic views, and propagates dangerous anti-vaccine conspiracy theories. Despite Twitter suspensions, accounts associated with him remain active. His extreme rhetoric and devoted following pose a concerning online presence, raising questions about platforms’ effectiveness in curbing ban evasion and harmful content dissemination.
In a livestream via Instagram, Benjamin used offensive language, including the N-word, and employed derogatory stereotypes when discussing various ethnic groups. He characterised Koreans as “way too crazy” and described them as “ruthless” individuals who supposedly “hold grudges for five generations over, like, rice.” He even wrote a song in 2018 “That Nigga Stole my Bike.” Well…
In 2021, he targeted a disabled journalist Mike Weland of the Kootenai Valley Times labeling him an “alleged pedophile” and accusing him of leveraging his disability to gain trust around children. Benjamin escalated the harassment by sending a film crew to Weland’s house and further mocked disabled individuals on Instagram, displaying a pattern of abusive behavior.
His Love For Muslims & Islam
A comedian and supposed actor, he claimed on a video shared a few years ago, that his “main thing is to help people not hate so many good-hearted Muslims that are wit withstanding evil and they are the type of people you want to root for these scholarly beautiful Muslim people”. He also added, “Muslims that honor the Creator the God of truth the God are not a threat to my family”. He also added that Muslim families worship better than Christian families.
This former Islamophobe turned into a Hinduphobe or rather Hindumisic, thanks to Vivek Ramaswamy. The entire X timeline of Benjamin is filled with hate, hate for Israel, hate for Hindus and Indians. He even demeaned Hindu customs, Hindu deities, traditions, and whatnot.
Some of his tweets about Hindu gods and goddesses include:
Indians have a woman God of 8 arms because they fantasize about women being able to do 4 times the amount of work. The women are the only ones who work over there. The men just lay around smelling their own shit and asking little trinkets for more money.
A White supremacist f**ker called @OwenBenjamin goes on an extremely Hinduphobic racist rant. Makes fun of bindi, Hindu Gods, says Indians shit in public and are corrupt. Show him some love, people, like we did with I,Hypocrite and Slatzism! pic.twitter.com/kuf3qtGZI0
— Stop Hindu Hate Advocacy Network (SHHAN) (@HinduHate) January 7, 2024
Which god? The elephant lady or the 8 armed blue bitch? Be specific
He shared videos on how Indians were supposedly using cow dung for beauty treatments and as toothpowder/paste. Benjamin seems to be living in the past and is not aware of how India has developed over the past decade at least.
Apparently cnn is also spewing “hate.” Guys…they literally eat shit and poop in the streets and lie nonstop. As a culture. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. And ask anyone in tech that works with them. They are basically incapable of completing tasks or telling the truth. pic.twitter.com/VtaGk0IPSE
If I didn’t make fun of this I wouldnt be a comedian. They literally brush their teeth with poop. Me saying the truth in a funny way isn’t “hate.” And no @VivekGRamaswamy@NikkiHaley this is not compatible with western civilization. You may have tricked all the Karen’s popping… pic.twitter.com/G5K6CWDdyw
We all know Swachch Bharat Abhiyaan ensured toilets were built all over the country and open defecation has come to an end. However, racist Owen Benjamin keeps spreading fake news that Indians still defecate in the open.
When Indians called out his bigotry, he came up with this:
His hate for Israel seemed to be another reason for such hate against Indians.
The Israelis love the Indians because they can not only dump their shit on them, the Indians will LOVE it and eat it. It’s truly a match made in the bowels of hell. pic.twitter.com/J3fcwaH50r
I’d take Muslim Arabs over Indian Hindus all day. The Indian bobble heads take great pleasure in tricking and betraying their friends, they’re all insanely short, and they legit shit in public. And their religion believes people can be born to be untouchable, and a blue bitch w 8…
Looks like we missed his hate posts after the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface.
My advice for India, focus less on the moon and a little more on not pooping in your own streets and water supply. The moon is great but what’s even better is plumbing.
Let’s take a look at his exemplary hate for Indians here:
I’d take blacks over Indians. At least blacks flush the toilet and can keep their head from bobbling around so much you get motion sickness looking at them. I could buy a bike lock for 30 bucks. No problem. Indians don’t take kindly to toilets and that smell gonna spread
Imagine putting a fucking dot sticker on your forehead and pretending it’s a meaningful religious practice. Is that how their teachers grade them? A fucking sticker on their forehead? If they scratch it does it smell like burnt lentils and death?
Racism preserves diversity. If everyone is American no one is. Racial identity is absolutely necessary to preserve the greatness of diversity. Sounds like a paradox but it isn’t. It’s obvious. Don’t listen to these fucking con artists.
Netizens called out his hypocrisy of calling India’s open defecation and Hindu hate. Netizens reminded Owen of his own backyard where defecation occurs big time.
Ably aided by a set of trolls which included Indians who gladly shit on their own culture, Owen Benjamin continued spouting more vitriol. Here’s a specimen.
Owen Benjamin was banned from YouTube in late 2019 for attempting to circumvent their terms of service and had previously violated guidelines by livestreaming. Before the ban, he utilised his platform to deny the Holocaust and propagate anti-LGBTQ conspiracy theories. Despite the ban, as of 2021, at least 17 mirror accounts continued to spread his content on YouTube.
This time, Owen Benjamin has messed with Indian Twitter. Maldives is reeling from what happened after they created a controversy over PM Modi’s Lakshadweep visit. It is highly likely that this rabid anti-Hindu and anti-Indian “comic” is going to get a taste of his own medicine for spreading filth.
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Tamil Nadu BJP State President K. Annamalai strongly criticised Dravidian parties for engaging in caste and communal politics, which has hindered the district’s development. He voiced these concerns during the “En Mann En Makkal” procession in Dharmapuri on 7 January 2024, where he visited constituencies like Palacode, Pennagaram, and Dharmapuri.
Beginning his speech, he commended Tamil chieftain “Neduman Anji” for his selfless act of giving up his rare Indian gooseberry to poetess Avvayar, which was considered to improve one’s life expectancy, and he highlighted the objective of the yatra – to preserve Tamil culture and make the youth aware of their history. He criticised the DMK, claiming that since they came to power, Tamil Nadu’s history seemed to begin only after 1965.
Annamalai emphasised the significance of cultural landmarks like the Mallikarjuna temple, KalaBhairavar temple, Adhiyaman fort, and Theerthagirisheeshwar temple as integral to Tamil identity. He called for the removal of the DMK from power to restore Tamil Nadu’s pride, especially with the upcoming elections in 60-70 days.
Expressing confidence in choosing Narendra Modi as India’s Prime Minister for the third time in April, Annamalai praised Modi’s ten-year tenure, lauding him as an honest leader. He recounted the BJP’s initiatives between 2014 and 2019, focusing on uplifting the downtrodden with schemes for housing, water, sanitation, and financial inclusion.
He stated “During the initial period from 2014 to 2019, we initiated schemes with a primary focus on uplifting the underprivileged in our nation. Our efforts were particularly geared towards constructing houses, providing tap water connections, building toilets, and facilitating gas connections. It is noteworthy that prior to this initiative, a staggering 42 crore people in India did not even have bank accounts.
He added, “Particularly in Dharmapuri, over the past decade, Modi has overseen the construction of concrete houses for 31,336 families, and additional homes have been provided. 2,32,117 toilet facilities have been established, along with tap water connections through the Jal Jeevan Mission, benefiting 121,410 households for the first time who in the past had to rely on pots to carry water, and a 101,522 families have access to gas connections for the first time. Dharmapuri, primarily reliant on agriculture, has seen 184,039 farmers benefit from the PM Kisan scheme, receiving ₹6,000 annually. These achievements reflect the first five years from 2014 to 2019, with a focus on prioritising the downtrodden, addressing poverty, and tackling low development. Despite the passage of 67 years, significant portions of the population still lacked proper housing and gas connections until these initiatives were implemented”.
Transitioning to the period from 2019 to 2024, Annamalai discussed the concentration on internal infrastructure, with significant investments in projects like the flyover bridge in Thoppur and the creation of 11 medical colleges statewide. He also highlighted the development of airports, ports, and various other initiatives.
He stated, “From 2019 to 2024, the focus has been on enhancing internal infrastructure, including the upgrade of roads and the Dharmapuri railway station through the Amrit Bharat scheme, backed by a budget of ₹15 crores. In response to a long-standing request, work has commenced on the Dharmapuri Morapur bridge, stalled since 1941 during British rule, spanning 82 years. An allocation of ₹358 crores has been sanctioned for its development, with ongoing progress, and upon completion, it will be open for public use. Notably, in the Thoppur area, where accidents have been frequent, a groundbreaking investment of ₹775 crores has been made for the construction of a flying bridge, for the first time”.
He added, “Other than this across Tamil Nadu, 11 medical colleges have been established, reflecting a commitment to healthcare infrastructure. Investments totaling ₹4,542 crores have been directed towards the modernisation of airports. Recently, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated a new building at Trichy airport, costing an estimated ₹1200 crores, dedicated to the people of Tamil Nadu. Additionally, a substantial amount of ₹1,46,000 crores has been allocated for the development of ports. These initiatives represent just a glimpse, as there are more accomplishments and investments that can be elaborated upon.”
Looking ahead, Annamalai outlined Modi’s vision for India to become the world’s 3rd largest economy by the end of 2028, surpassing Japan and Germany. He referred to this vision as “Viksit Bharat” or Developed India, emphasising the BJP’s commitment to transformative economic growth.
Addressing the issue of unemployment in Dharmapuri, particularly among the youth, Annamalai stressed the need to attract industries, create jobs, and implement the Cauvery scheme to improve irrigation for farmers.
Talking about DMK MP from Dharmapuri, Senthil Kumar, Annamalai read out a few lines from the 1965 edition of Viduthalai, while narrating an anecdote. He said, “In 1965, by-elections were taking place in Dharmapuri. At that time, Periyar, in Viduthalai magazine wrote, ‘Caution!! Dharmapuri voters, don’t support rioters and do not encourage DMK conspiracy’. Subsequently, Congress candidate Vadivelu Goundar emerged victorious in that election. Interestingly, today, Vadivelu Goundar’s grandson holds the position of MP under the DMK. We forget history sometimes. Periyar himself had labelled the DMK as rioters, emphasising their inclination towards caste-based politics, as noted in his writings. He noted that caste-politics was repeatedly done and caused Dharmapuri to lag behind.
When your MP comes here, you must ask if someone carries out a Bhoomi Puja or even lights an agarbatti, or even if someone carries a trident (soolam), he will ask, this is Dravida Model government, how can you bring an agarbatti or soolam? You should tell him, Anna you say Dravida Model government is your principle and your ideologue is Periyar but Annamalai came and told us about what Periyar had written in 1965 about the by-election in Viduthalai magazine which was run by Periyar himself. What Periyar has said without saying explicitly is that, your MP Senthil Kumar is a rioter, he said that in 1965 itself!”
Annamalai questioned the effectiveness of the current MP from Dharmapuri in addressing local issues in Parliament, highlighting concerns such as derogatory remarks on fellow citizens, especially north Indians, Hindu gods and goddesses, and the Hogenakkal water supply project flagged by the CAG.
He conveyed his frustration saying, “Instead of addressing the issues of his constituency, MP Senthil Kumar diverted the discussion in Parliament by stating that North Indians consume “cow urine“. In response, another MP questioned him, asking why his own son is currently studying in an international school in Uttarakhand, implying that if north India is indeed a region where cow urine is consumed, then why is his son studying there? The Dharmapuri MP in the context of religious beliefs in the North also said, “It is often said that, for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Pillayar (Ganesha) is considered their son, not Murugan and raises the rhetorical question of whether Shiva and Parvati practiced family planning, as Murugan is traditionally considered their son”.
Annamalai questioned the voters of the constituency “What should he address in Parliament? Should he not focus on manufacturing capacity, and aim to generate four lakh jobs within the next five years by establishing new industries? Has your MP raised these issues in Parliament?”
He concluded by affirming that only Narendra Modi possesses the qualifications to become the Prime Minister in 2024, comparing him favourably to other political figures. Annamalai also urged the allocation of funds for SIPCOT and emphasised the importance of fulfilling promises in the electoral manifesto, especially in creating jobs and fostering local development of DMK.
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In a surprising move, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), known for its historical resistance against Hindi imposition, is showcasing a softened approach towards the language. The party, led by MK Stalin, has been a vocal critic of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) stance on Hindi, particularly Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s declarations in 2019 and 2022.
Shah’s statements during Hindi Diwas in 2019, where he emphasized Hindi as a unifying force, and his subsequent claim in 2022 that Hindi is a friend of other languages, were met with criticism from DMK leaders. Stalin reportedly countered Shah’s assertions, stating, “It is India and not ‘Hindia’.” During this period, Dravidian parties organized protests condemning Shah’s remarks.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s minister for sports and youth welfare and the CM’s son, created movement with red tshirt flaring “Hindi theriyadhu poda” (Don’t know Hindi, go away) in October 2022.
BJP leader Dr. Rama Sreenivasan, in a recent interview with TheNewsTamil, has censured the DMK for what he perceives as their inconsistent stance on upholding ‘Tamil’ heritage.
He states “Kannimozhi sister experience at airport, where a security official asked her to speak in Hindi, she immediately took the issue to twitter as Hindi imposition. Similarly, actor Siddarth from Karnataka shared a similar encounter on Twitter, some airport officials asked him to speak in Hindi. However, in the matter of Nitish Kumar advocating Hindi learning, why Kanimozhi did not condemned it in twitter?
A security personnel, possibly proficient only in Hindi or even lacking proficiency in English, might have requested, “Madam, please speak in Hindi.” I am unaware of that!… but in that issue you blamed as Hindi imposition! Advocating central government is trying to impose hindi on us!… What issues have you caused? You’ve popularized it and trended it on twitter! You wore T-shirt that saying “Hindi Theriyadhu poda”. Now wear that before nitish kumar; why refrain from stating “Hindi theriyadhu poda” now?
Why hasn’t Kanimozhi tweeted something like, “On that day, I issued a similar warning regarding airport issue. Likewise today, I condemn Nitish Kumar for instructing DMK leaders to learn and speak Hindi without offering translation. Even if the I.N.D.I. alliance breaks down, we will not accept Hindi
Hasn’t Nitish Kumar, nailed southern leaders by stating “learn Hindi first, don’t ask for translation, and Hindi is common for all,” criticized all South Indian leaders? Despite this, they remained silent and withdrew; it seems the DMK’s assertiveness is limited to Tamil Nadu and not extended to Bihar. Nitish kumar is not even a strong leader,You have not asserted your position”
However, in the matter of Nitish Kumar advocating Hindi learning, DMKs response was questioned by him. He highlights the inconsistency in their stance, as they previously condemned everything as Hindi imposition but remaining silent on Nitish Kumar’s statements.
The incident highlighted by Rama Sreenivasan, was at Fourth Meeting in New Delhi on 19 December 2023 which was the fourth meeting of the INDIA bloc in New Delhi addressing various issues, including seat-sharing, a joint campaign blueprint, and devising a strategy to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
During the meeting, DMK leader TR Baalu requested an English translation of Nitish Kumar’s Hindi speech, triggering a strong reaction from the Bihar Chief Minister where he expressed frustration, argued that Hindi is the national language and insisted that everyone should learn and understand it.
This observable transformation is perceived as a strategic response to counter the BJP’s narrative of regional divisiveness and an endeavor to position itself as a national party. In recent developments, there are clear indications of a change in the DMK’s stance on Hindi. Despite being a leading force in the anti-Hindi movement, the party now exhibits signs of adopting a more accommodating position compromising their core ideology.
(Inputs with the The Print)
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AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of Opposition, Edappadi Palaniswami, addressed a conference on Sunday, 7 January 2023, on the defence of secularism organised by the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) in Madurai. What is interesting is that EPS shared the stage with SDPI state president, Nellai Mubarak, who was in the news in July 2023 after NIA conducted raids in connection with the Ramalingam murder case.
Ramalingam was a Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) functionary who killed by radical Islamists associated with the banned outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) and its auxiliary outfit SDPI, after he resisted religious conversion in his area.
Ex CM and the other guy I don't know his name but remember that NIA conducted raids on him a few months back 😒👍 pic.twitter.com/iHgu2JBKsO
— Vishwatma 🇮🇳 ( மோடியின் குடும்பம் ) (@HLKodo) January 7, 2024
The AIADMK leader’s participation in the SDPI conference is seen as a potential indication of an electoral alliance between the two parties. Palaniswami has been actively distancing the AIADMK from its previous alliance with the BJP, “addressing” concerns of minorities. The SDPI’s invitation to Palaniswami and similar moves by other Muslim parties, including AIMIM, suggest a shift in alliances, with the AIADMK seeking to regain its secular credentials.
Palaniswami assured minorities that the AIADMK would not ally with the BJP in upcoming elections and highlighted the party’s commitment to their welfare. He criticised the DMK for allegedly failing to fulfill promises made to the Muslim community. Palaniswami expressed optimism about more parties, like SDPI, joining the AIADMK alliance, aiming to win all 40 seats in the upcoming elections.
In his outreach to minorities, Palaniswami emphasised the AIADMK’s historical support for minority communities during its governance. He accused the DMK of merely claiming to be a protector of minority rights while acting against their welfare. Palaniswami reiterated the party’s stand on not projecting a prime ministerial candidate, focusing instead on advocating for Tamil Nadu’s welfare in the Parliament.
The AIADMK leader criticized the Global Investors’ Meet and called for transparency by asking if the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister would present a white paper on the previously signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Palaniswami shared his own struggles during his tenure as Chief Minister and voiced concerns about accommodating individuals who are now outside the party.
The SDPI, in turn, declared the “Madurai Declaration” during the conference, aiming to protect the secular fabric of the country. Palaniswami’s participation in the SDPI conference and his outreach to minority communities signal a strategic move by the AIADMK to reshape its political alliances and regain its secular image. It is noteworthy that in October 2023, the AIADMK introduced a calling attention motion over the issue of releasing Muslim prisoners including those who have been convicted for the 1998 Coimbatore Bomb Blasts.
மாண்புமிகு சட்டமன்ற எதிர்கட்சித்தலைவர் புரட்சித்தமிழர் @EPSTamilNadu அவர்கள் இன்று (10.10.2023) தமிழ் நாட்டில் நீண்ட நாள் சிறையில் உள்ள இஸ்லாமிய சிறைவாசிகளை விடுதலை செய்வது குறித்து சட்டப்பேரவையில் சிறப்பு கவன ஈர்ப்பு தீர்மானம் கொண்டு வந்தார் .@AIADMKOfficial… pic.twitter.com/zsVsAPxDH3
— AIADMK IT WING – SayYesToWomenSafety&AIADMK (@AIADMKITWINGOFL) October 10, 2023
The motion called for releasing over 36 Muslim prisoners including the 16 convicts sentenced to life in the 1998 Coimbatore Blasts case on humanitarian grounds considering their long sentences served, old age, and health.
Tamil film actor Vijay Sethupathi, who enjoys good popularity among the masses and takes up offbeat roles in films, has ventured into other language films as well. His performances have gained a large fan following, to the extent of him getting cast in many Hindi language films and web series. His most recent venturing into Hindi-speaking media was the 2023 web series Farzi on Amazon Prime Video, in which he played a key role. Vijay Sethupathi’s role as a villain in Jawan was also appreciated among Hindi and Tamil audiences alike. until now.
Not Against Hindi But ‘Hindi Imposition’
Vijay Sethupathi’s new film releasing on Pongal ironically titled as ‘Merry Christmas’ had a promotional press meet on 07 January 2024. During the press meet, a reporter raised a question regarding Hindi politics in the state.
Before the reporter can even finish his question, Vijay Sethupathi jumps in and asks the reporter, ‘Didn’t you ask the same question when Aamir Khan came here? Why do you always repeat the same question everywhere?‘ to which the reporter asks, ‘Given the culture of Tamil Nadu and the political background, should we learn Hindi or not?‘. Vijay Sethupathi then goes on to ask the reporter, ‘What’s the use of asking such a question to a person like me? Why do you ask this question now?‘. The reporter then starts saying, ‘We have said in our state that we should not learn Hindi‘ when Vijay Sethupathi interrupts and says, ‘We have never said that Hindi should not be learned, but it should not be imposed. Nobody here has ever said that. This is a wrong question and an unnecessary one. Here, there are many people learning Hindi, an explanation for this has been given by our PTR sir, listen to it, it is a clear explanation.’ This answer of Vijay Sethupathi is nothing but the textbook reply used by DMK leaders and cadres whenever they are in a defensive mode in an argument against Hindi learning. The two language policy in the state depriving students’ opportunity to learn a new language has been called out in the recent past by many. The Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai has also repeatedly said that the BJP will not impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu and the Tamil Nadu BJP is against Hindi imposition in any form.
Controversies Surrounding Vijay Sethupathi
Although Vijay Sethupathi does not speak to the public about his political views, there are some controversies that surround the actor. In the year 2020, IT raids were conducted in his office and residence. Although no further details were divulged, a conspiracy theory note was spread on social media stating Vijay Sethupathi, Aarya, Ramesh Kanna and Aarthi were few actors who were engaged in Christian religious conversions in the Tamil cinema industry. Vijay Sethupathi shared a screenshot of this note on X and wrote ‘Go and do whatever work you may have’. This came as a shocker to many, as Vijay Sethupathi has always said in public speeches and interviews that he doesn’t follow any particular religion.
The actor was given the Periyar award in the year 2018, sharing the stage with Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) chief K. Veeramani and Aramm film director Gopi Nainar. In his speech, the DK chief says that he is proud of the achievements by the actor and director and says more such people should come up in the industry.
After casting his vote in the 2021 Tamil Nadu elections, he was asked if he had voted against communal and religious forces, he said he had never changed his stand. Early in 2023, his fans in Madurai had earlier put up posters urging native Tamil Nadu people to boycott North Indians, forgetting that he had acted in Hindi films and web series. The actor has not flirted with language politics explicitly.
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Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai has raised serious concerns about rampant corruption in the registration department across Tamil Nadu following the DMK’s ascent to power. According to Annamalai, citizens are being compelled to pay an additional amount, termed as ‘Moorthy Fees,’ on top of the government-prescribed fees.
Tamil Nadu Minister for Commercial Taxes, Registration and Stamp Law, P Moorthy as alleged by Annamalai, has purportedly appointed brokers throughout Tamil Nadu to collect these extra fees, funneling the funds directly to the Minister for Registration, Murthy himself. Addressing the media in a recent press meet, Annamalai asserted, “If you pay a commission, your document will be registered, even beyond office hours. They are charging an extra ₹5,500 for registration, plunging the state into a deep pit of corruption.”
Annamalai suggested that honest citizens striving to acquire property through hard work are now compelled to navigate through a web of corruption, paying exorbitant fees to ensure their transactions are processed. He accused the system of reaching the “Himalayan peak” of corruption, with numerous brokers allegedly operating within the registration department, siphoning off crores of rupees.
Annamalai minced no words in stating, “TN BJP will undertake a protest on this issue.” He went on to claim that the officers in the registration department seem to have lost control, allowing brokers to wield undue influence. He emphasized, “If we can seize the money they are looting, we can even settle Tamil Nadu’s loans.”
திமுக ஆட்சிக்கு வந்த பிறகு, தமிழகம் முழுவதும் பத்திரப்பதிவு துறையில், அரசு விதித்துள்ள கட்டணத்திற்குக் கூடுதலாக, மேலும் ஒரு தொகை கட்ட, பொதுமக்கள் கட்டாயப்படுத்தப்படுகிறார்கள்.
பத்திரப்பதிவு துறை அமைச்சர் மூர்த்திக்குச் செல்லும் இந்த ‘Murthy Fees’ தொகையை வசூலிக்க, தமிழகம்… pic.twitter.com/5D3z48pm1T
In yet another instance of DMK leaders peddling xenophobia against north Indians, DMK Minister Mano Thangaraj can be seen making hateful speeches and negatively stereotyping north Indians especially Gujaratis.
Speaking at an event in October 2022, the DMK Minister said that people in north India roam around in loin cloth.
“Today, the Tamil community and the Indian community is mired in illusion. In north India, people even today roam around in loincloth. If you get an opportunity, go to Gujarat and see. No need to go anywhere else. Once you land there, they will deceive you showing Ahmedabad, Gandhi Nagar, etc. Don’t even look that side. Ask them to show the rural area. Go see the rural area. If you see the rural areas, you will see those people only wear loincloth.”, DMK Minister Mano Thangaraj said.
He further said “In a public meeting yesterday, I asked people who are working in the parotta shops and chicken stalls here. North Indians. How can I get a job studying Hindi? They are coming to work here in parotta shops. I don’t have labourers here to work. From where am I getting labourers? I catch and bring Hindiwallas as labourers here. I pity them. They don’t know the language. They don’t know anything. If they learn Tamil, it will help them. They will get a job learning Tamil. Will I get a job learning Hindi? Such idiots they are. If we tell this, they are asking us to learn Hindi. Now a few our children know Hindi. I don’t have any problem with that. It’s not wrong. Why is the Central Government not making all 22 languages as official language?
Another #DMK minister insults Indians from North 😡
He had also made disparaging remarks about PM Modi. Sharing the image of PM Modi bowing down to Hindu Adheenam Seers, the DMK Minister said, “Is he dead? (Is he breathing? ), does he have dignity and self-esteem?”
Mano Thangaraj is not the only DMK leader to spew hate against north Indians. Several DMK leaders have made racist comments about north Indians in the past.
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PM Modi made a visit to Lakshadweep on 04 January 2024 and social media has gone berserk with various theories and conspiracies. Although, PM Modi does not say anything explicitly, his actions speak more than his words and for this reason, his visit to the Lakshadweep islands has become a subject of intense debates and discussions.
Unlike the previous PM Rajiv Gandhi who utilised the islands as his own party grounds, PM Modi used this trip to showcase the surreal beauty of Lakshadweep as well as to reach out to the majority Muslim population in the islands.
Focusing On Lakshadweep
Historically, Maldives has been a friendly nation to India. In fact, India was one of the first few nations to recognise Maldives’ independence from the British. Both nations have intrinsically developed close strategic, military, economic and cultural relations. There have been good bilateral trade agreements between the countries as well. India brought Maldives into its security net in 2009, when there was a tip that one of the island resorts could be taken over by terrorists. When there was regime change in the Maldives in 2022, the new president Mohamed Muizzu requested India to withdraw its military presence. Finally, in December 2023, India agreed to withdraw its military forces. It has been alleged that China and Muizzu’s party enjoy good relationship and the new antagonistic measures of the Muizzu’s party might be influenced by the Eastern nation. Also, it is reported that 10 islands in the Maldives have been leased to China, and they are stationing ships there to conduct large scale military operations. More measures like free trade agreement between the two nations show how close they are getting together. China’s presence in the Maldives will be a definite threat to India, so naturally, as a countermeasure India will like to strengthen their military presence in Lakshadweep.
Reactions To The Visit
Ever since PM Modi’s visit, social media has been abuzz about Lakshadweep and Maldives. PM Modi did not utter a word about the Maldives during his visit, but the message was picked up by prominent political analysts and media houses. #BoycottMaldives #Maldives, #Maldivian, #Lakshadweep have been trending on X for two consecutive days. Google Trends showed ‘Lakshadweep tour’ and Lakshadweep packages’ were top trending keywords even on 06 January 2024. Retorting to these trends, prominent handles from the Maldives government have been posting on X about Maldives tourism, which were, at best, borderline abusive.
Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, posted on X calling PM Modi as a ‘clown’ and ‘puppet of Israel’ which enraged Indian netizens and eventually, she had to delete the post after massive backlash. This happened the day after Zahid Rameez, a council member of the ruling party of the Maldives, mocked Indians tend to leave behind ‘a permanent smell’ in the rooms. Interestingly, in June 2023 the same person was requesting for Indian citizenship since he was born in Madras (sic).
Zahid Rameez is a citizen of Maldives. In June 2023, he was begging for Indian citizenship on account of being born in Madras, India.
In January 2024, he is saying Indians are smelly & can't compete with Maldives.
India has formally communicated its objections to the Maldivian government regarding offensive statements attributed to Mariyam Shiuna, a current minister in the Maldives. These comments were directed at India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While Shiuna has removed her tweets, this situation has ignited a diplomatic dispute between the neighboring nations.
Following the escalating tensions on social media, the Maldives Government suspended Minister Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha and Hassan Zihan for their derogatory remarks made on PM Modi and India.
Not just that. The Maldivian government spokesperson confirmed that “All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their post effective immediately“.
Earlier, the Government of Maldives released a statement distancing itself from the comments made by its Ministers.
“Government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives says Maldives Foreign Ministry.“, it said.
Meanwhile the Opposition in the island nation has caught the incumbent in a fix lashing out at the irresponsible comments made by the Ministers.
Abdulla Shahid, the former Foreign Minister of Maldives wrote “Derogatory remarks made by 2 Deputy Ministers of the current Maldives Government, and a member of a political party in the ruling coalition, towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India on social media is reprehensible and odious.”
Derogatory remarks made by 2 Deputy Ministers of the current #Maldives Government, and a member of a political party in the ruling coalition, towards Prime Minister @narendramodi and the people of India on social media is reprehensible and odious.
Other members of the Maldivian Opposition to slammed the Government.
We established the Maldives tourism industry based on the principles of hospitality, tolerance, peace, and harmony. Through strategic positioning and collaborations with global brands and investments, including those from India, we have successfully positioned Maldives as a…
Earlier in the day, the Maldives government websites were inaccessible. It seems that the Maldivian government either implemented a firewall or temporarily restricted access to their website specifically for users accessing it from Indian IP addresses.
Maldives foreign ministry website not available from India: -Looks like Maldives govt has put a firewall or temporarily blocked access to their website from Indian IPs -Development post outage seen yesterday of Maldives websites. Govt hasn't confirmed if it was cyber attack. pic.twitter.com/3a553qOCFW
Chinese-Friendly Government Shoots Itself In The Foot
The incumbent government in Maldives is considered pro-China and its Prime Minister Mohamed Muizzu was instrumental in the Get Out India campaign. He had wanted all Indian troops stationed in Maldives to be removed.
Travel and tourism plays a huge part in the Maldives’ economy. Data shows that in the year 2019 the contribution of travel and tourism to GDP (% of GDP) was 66.1%. The tourism industry took a massive hit during COVID in 2020, and when the restrictions were lifted off, Indians emerged as the biggest international tourists in the island country, accounting for 11.3% of the total market share. As the new President Mohamed Muizzu is travelling to Beijing to meet the Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, Modi has strategically placed his ‘tourism’ visit to deliver his subtle message to the new President of the Maldives. The future holds the key in seeing how the relationship between the Maldives, India and China develop and transform.
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