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DMK Supporting Dravidianists Abuse Fin Min Nirmala Sitharaman Invoking Her Brahmin Identity, She Had Asked HR&CE Dept To Prevent Temple Path Being Used As Public Toilet

By
The Commune
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Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited the flood-affected regions of Thoothukudi district on 26 December 2023. During her visit, she engaged with residents in various locations, including Korampallam, Maravanmadam in Thoothukudi Taluk, Murapanadu Kovilpathu in Srivaikuntam Taluk, and Manathi, Therku Valavallan in Eral Taluk, covering a total distance of approximately 120 kilometers. The Finance Minister directed the officials to expedite assistance to all affected individuals.

In Srivaikuntam, local residents informed Smt. Sitharaman about the severe impact of the floods on horticulture in the area. They explained that extensive agricultural land had been covered with river sand, rendering it unsuitable for cultivation. In response, the Finance Minister instructed district officials to take necessary measures to provide relief to horticultural farmers in the region.

Nirmala Sitharaman also paid a visit to the Vaikuntanathar Perumal Temple at Srivaikuntam where she inspected the chariot procession path that was ravaged by the floods. A video of her interacting and directing the officials inside the temple has gone viral on social media.

During the Brahmotsavam, the procession of the deity would go through the path that is behind the temple. However, that path was being used like an open-air public toilet by a few people leading to unbearable stench. When the Finance Minister was at the temple, a devotee had appealed to her to do something about getting the path cleaned.

Nirmala Sitharaman immediately ordered the officials to take the matter into cognizance and do the needful.

One person (probably an official) can be heard saying that a fencing would be erected soon.

Nirmala Sitharaman said that BJP Tamil Nadu’s floor leader in the Assembly, Nainar Nagendran would come and inspect whether the job has been completed or not in 15 days or a month.

“If the job isn’t completed even after one month, I will come down here. Will it happen when I come? I will stand right there until the fencing is completed. No matter the work (I have). Alright?“, she can be heard telling the officials assembled at the temple.

She then makes snide remarks at the Joint Commissioner of Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) of Thoothukudi region asking him whether he listened to their grievances. The Joint Commissioner can be seen fumbling in front of the Minister.

“Perumal during the procession is coming through that path. They are asking you to clean the path which is being used like a public toilet.”, Nirmala Sitharaman says.

An official can be heard saying that the path would be guarded with proper fencing.

BJP MLA Nainar Nagendran asked how much would it cost to which Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says “Why are you worried about that?”

Taking jibes at the HR&CE department for not giving enough renumeration to the temple archakas, Nirmala Sitharaman says to the BJP MLA “For giving ₹3000 to these priests they (HR&CE) measure carefully like they do in ration shops. They would definitely have enough money remaining with them. They can’t pay them (archakas) salaries. Because there is a reason for that. They won’t have a problem in repairing the street/path.”

She further adds “If you ask like that, they would say they’ve no money and you would also arrange CSR funds. No way!”

As she makes that comment, a devotee from the crowd can be heard saying that he can arrange ₹30,000 to which Nirmala Sitharaman replies “Wait brother! Don’t put it in the Hundi (donation box). You give wherever you want as you deem fit. Let them use the money they’ve to build it.”

She then goes on to warn the HR&CE Joint Commissioner saying “Don’t take it lightly thinking that I am talking candidly in a joking manner. They’re not asking you anything else. They’re asking you to get the path through which Perumal comes cleaned and maintained.” to which the official assures that he will get it rectified.

However, the DMK supporting Dravidian Stockists have unleashed vile casteist abuses at Nirmala Sitharaman invoking her Brahmin identity.

A rabid anti-Hindu Dravidianist handle promoted by senior DMK leaders (including the likes of DMK Minister PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan) said “Instead of looking at the damage caused by rains, it takes the mindset of cruel psycho to dig into what’s wrong with the Perumal temple procession route #தட்டேந்தி_நிம்மி”. 

The hashtag (Thattendhi Nimmi) in Tamil means “Nimmi holding the plate”, a casteist abusive reference pointing at her Brahmin identity as Brahmin priests survive on the donations made in the archana plate.

Another Dravidianist handle wrote: “Those who once told us to not come inside the temple are today saying if you come temple, don’t put money in hundi but put it in Iyer’s plate.”

Here’s another from the same person.

Another Dravidianist DMK supporting handle @syedusaincumbum (Dravida Vizhudhu) wrote: “This Nooliban (equating sacred thread/poonol wearing Brahmins to Taliban) will go anywhere to beg with their plates even if it is a toilet.”

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“A Close Friend”: PM Modi Condoles The Death Of DMDK Founder Captain Vijayakanth

By
The Commune
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Actor-turned-politician and founder of Desiya Murpoku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Vijayakanth, fondly called as ‘Captain’ passed away on 28 December 2023 after suffering from prolonged illness.

In November, Vijayakanth’s health deteriorated, leading to his admission to MIOT Hospital in Chennai. He was hospitalized for 14 days under medical observation due to cough and throat pain. He passed away just days after handing over the DMDK’s torch to his wife Premalatha Vijayakanth.

Tributes from cross the political spectrum have been pouring in for the late politician who changed Tamil Nadu’s political landscape forever.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi too sent an emotional condolence message calling Vijayakanth a close friend.

“Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill.” PM Modi said in an X post.

He further added “He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti.”

In 2005, Vijayakanth established the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party.

During the 2006 elections, DMDK contested all assembly seats but managed to secure only a modest 10 percent of the total vote share. However, besides the party’s founder-leader, none of its candidates emerged victorious.

In 2011, DMDK formed an alliance with the AIADMK and contested 41 constituencies, securing victory in 26 of them. This remarkable achievement made the Captain’s party a historic success, surpassing the DMK in seat wins and establishing itself as the principal opposition party for that year.

Vijayakanth served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from 2011 to 2016.

Subsequently, due to differences in opinion, the DMDK severed ties with the AIADMK, resulting in the mass resignation of DMDK MLAs. Consequently, the party lost its status as the primary opposition party.

Vijayakanth served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly twice, representing the Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam constituencies.

In the 2014 parliamentary elections, the DMDK joined forces with the NDA but experienced a significant defeat, with a notable decline in its vote percentage.

In the 2016, 2019, and 2021 elections, the DMDK’s performance suffered as Vijayakanth battled health complications.

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Decoding Tamil Nadu’s Economic Trajectory: A Tale Of Lost Opportunities Under Dravidian Rule

By
Baskar
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Tamil Nadu benefitted from a high base rate in the economy till the 1960s before the Dravidian parties’ rule. The state had a high literacy rate, economic levels, and per capita income among major states. Let’s look at some of the data points over decades to understand this better.

In the initial decades, Tamil Nadu had worsened its performance and played catch-up later. However, states like Haryana, Gujarat and Karnataka have done significantly better than Tamil Nadu – Noteworthy that there was No Dravidian model at play here.

The high base effect had helped the State grow its economy, bigger than its compatriots. Laggard in the first decade (the 70s) and also in the 2000s under Dravidian rule. Most of Southern states doing better than Tamil Nadu for the same period.

This table compares Tamil Nadu’s performance vis-à-vis Gujarat over decades after the State came under the rule of the Dravidian parties. Gujarat has done much better than Tamil Nadu here. This also reflects Tamil Nadu’s relative position amongst major states having high NSDP (above ₹5 lakh crores. NSDP)

Amongst the top 13 states with NSDP (current prices) above ₹7 lakh crores (Except for Odisha & Bihar, all highly populous states covered), Tamil Nadu has been maintaining its relative position. Initially, the Dravidian rule worsened the state’s relative position – a tale of lost opportunities.

Kerala, Karnataka, and Haryana have shown better performance than Tamil Nadu; Gujarat is nearly at par, and Maharashtra shows lower performance than Tamil Nadu over the same period.


Per capita income 2021-22 (Current prices) reflects the relative standing of Tamil Nadu against major states. Tamil Nadu at 5th position with Telangana, Karnataka, and Haryana in a better position. Gujarat is nearly at par and Kerala is closely behind.


Against 1960-61, Tamil Nadu’s relative position is constant amongst major states (above ₹7 lakh crores). Southern states of Telangana and Karnataka going beyond Tamil Nadu; Maharashtra and West Bengal are seeing lower performance comparatively.


Performance of the rest of the Southern States conveys that Tamil Nadu has lost its pre-eminent position of the 1960s and has been a laggard against the best performers, under the misrule of the Dravidian parties. Moreover, the State has also not ensured equitable growth. Amongst states with high consumption inequality in India, it is higher than the national average. Dravidian misrule resulted in not harnessing its full potential by not uplifting marginalised people and victimising certain communities due to its casteist approach to governance.


Another key parameter influencing economic growth is its literacy rate. Tamil Nadu had a 36.4% literacy rate in 1961 pre-Dravidian parties rule, 3rd amongst major states. Tamil Nadu known for its high literacy rate had the benefit of a high base rate and stood out in 1961 itself.


This base effect led Tamil Nadu to reach an 80.1% literacy rate in 2011 to make it to the 4th position. Maharashtra’s growth in the same period is better than that of Tamil Nadu. Overall, data points from 1960-61 onwards reflect a different take on Tamil Nadu’s position. More of a tale of lost opportunities under the Dravidian parties, but especially the DMK.

Source: MOSPI and Economic Survey

(This article based on the X thread by Baskar – all images are from the same thread)

Baskar is a finance professional having keen interest in current affairs and Indian culture.

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Villagers In Ramanathapuram Name Road After Union Fin Min Nirmala Sitharaman After She Facilitates Crucial Railway Overpass In Lanthai Village

By
The Commune
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In a significant development, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman played a pivotal role in addressing the longstanding concerns of the residents of Lanthai, Kananai, Peria Tamaraikudi, Chinna Thamaraikudi, and Tripunai villages in Tamil Nadu. During her recent visit to Rameshwaram on 29 November 2023, the Finance Minister met with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, advocating for the construction of a manned gate or a flyover to replace the existing subway under the railway crossing in Lanthai Village.

The villagers, facing perpetual difficulties due to flooding in the region for most months of the year, expressed their concerns to the Finance Minister. They highlighted that the existing subway was the only means of connectivity for the villages, emphasizing the urgent need for a more sustainable solution to enhance accessibility and address the persistent water-related challenges.

Responding to the plea of the locals, Union FM Nirmala Sitharaman took proactive steps, requesting the construction of a flyover that would significantly benefit the affected villages. The proposed railway overpass aims to provide a reliable and flood-resistant connection to Lanthai, Kananai, Peria Tamaraikudi, Chinna Thamaraikudi, and Tripunai.

Following the Finance Minister’s intervention, a Panchayat Council meeting was convened on 5 December 2023, at the Panchayat Council Building in the presence of the Panchayat Council President, Chairman and members attended the session, where several resolutions were passed expressing gratitude and appreciation for the Finance Minister’s efforts.

The resolutions outlined the collective thanks of the people to the Hon’ble Finance Minister for her instrumental support in obtaining permission for the construction of the railway overpass. Recognising the positive impact on the lives of the villagers, the Panchayat passed a resolution to name the road after Nirmala Sitharaman as a token of gratitude for her dedication to addressing the community’s needs.

The proposed railway overpass, once realised, is expected to bring about positive transformation, providing enhanced connectivity and resilience against the challenges posed by seasonal flooding. 

In a recent update shared by Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party leader Prof Rama Sreenivasan, it became crystal clear that the road was indeed named after her as per the resolution. Dravidianists were in denial and claimed the news to be fake earlier.

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Madurai Bench Of Madras High Court Orders Eviction Of Christian School Encroaching On Hindu Temple Land

By
The Commune
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In a significant legal development, the Madras High Court’s Division Bench ordered the eviction of Amali Girls Higher Secondary School in Vickramasingapuram, Ambasamudram taluk, Tirunelveli district, for encroaching on 11 acres of Hindu temple land since 1990. The court’s well-reasoned judgment, delivered on 4 December 2023, marks a crucial step in restoring the rightful ownership of the land to the trust ‘Pillayan Arthjama Kattalai,’ falling under the supervision of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR&CE) department.

The legal battle dates back to 2011 when devotee M. Mariappan brought the encroachment issue to the attention of the High Court bench. Following the court’s directive, the HR&CE took cognisance of the matter, and the then commissioner, J Chandrakumar, instructed the joint commissioner (JC) in the Tirunelveli region to address the encroachment and return the land to the trust.

As reported in 2013 in the Times of India, the HR&CE JC, M. Anbumani, passed an eviction order in 2013, citing the school’s unauthorised use of the land for non-agricultural purposes and the construction of buildings. The school had initially leased the land for cultivation in 1989, with an annual rent fixed at a nominal amount of ₹2,000. However, it failed to adhere to the terms of the agreement, leading to the HR&CE’s decision to reclaim the land.

Despite the legal proceedings, the school challenged the eviction order, prompting the high court to grant a status quo for three weeks, citing potential disruptions to students. The judgement was delivered after the status quo period ended on 19 September 2013 reaffirming the HR&CE’s authority to reclaim the encroached land.

The trust, ‘Pillayan Arthjama Kattalai,’ oversees charitable activities and poojas to the deity ‘Papanasar’ at the renowned Papanasam Sivan temple on the banks of the Tamirabarani River in Tirunelveli. The revenue generated from leasing the land, including to the school, supports these activities. However, the meagre annual rent of ₹5,000 paid by the school for eleven acres, significantly below the market value, raised concerns among the public and affected the execution of poojas to the deity.

The Division Bench’s order for eviction, while upholding the interest of the students for the current academic year, provides a resolution to the prolonged legal battle and sends a clear message against encroachments on religious and endowment lands. The deadline for eviction has been set for 31 March 2024, taking into account the welfare of the students too. 

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Recent Findings Reveal Harappan Civilization Is 7000-8000 Years Old

By
The Commune
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Indus Valley Had Powerful Intercontinental Mercantile Civilisation: Devdutt Pattanaik

Archaeological researchers from Deccan College Pune, in collaboration with the Central Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), have unveiled a remarkable discovery at the historic site of Rakhigarhi, a village situated in Haryana’s Hisar district. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the findings suggest that the human remains found at this site date back approximately 8,000 years, shedding new light on India’s ancient history. This revelation comes as a result of the third phase of excavations conducted by ASI in conjunction with multiple research teams across the country, including experts from Deccan College Pune.

The initial phase of excavations at Rakhigarhi, led by Dr. Amarendra Nath of the Indian Archaeology Department from 1997 to 2000, yielded evidence of the North Harappan culture dating back to 2500 BC. Subsequently, the second phase of excavations, led by Professor Vasant Shinde from Deccan College Pune, took place from 2006 to 2013. During this phase, Shinde’s team collected substantial evidence and conducted DNA tests, suggesting that this culture could be over 4,000 years old. Over the past two years, ASI and Deccan College Pune have jointly conducted the third phase of excavations at Rakhigarhi, led by ASI Joint Director Sanjay Kumar Manjul and Deccan College Pune Assistant Professor Prabhodh Shirwalkar.

Shirwalkar explained, “The Harappan culture comprises three parts: East Harappan, Middle Harappan, and North Harappan (Modern). The earlier two excavations found evidence of the Middle and Modern Harappan cultures dating back around 4,000 years. However, the evidence uncovered in the third phase of excavations indicates that this culture dates back 7,000 to 8,000 years. Our team is currently preparing the final report on this significant discovery.”

The ongoing research suggests that human DNA has remained relatively unchanged over the past 8,000 years, which has been determined through the examination of human remains and traps found at the site. Additionally, a substantial burial ground was discovered, containing both human and animal traps.

The ASI is actively engaged in these excavations at the Rakhigarhi archaeological site, with a primary aim to make the site accessible to the public. This involves the preservation and exposure of structural remains for future viewing and the provision of visitor amenities.

During the excavations, a wide range of metal utensils, including gold and silver artifacts, were uncovered. Shirwalkar also highlighted the discovery of old silver and copper ornaments, as well as exquisite clay pots. Notably, the remains of expansive underground settlements, featuring courtyards and drainage systems, were also revealed. These settlements included houses with two to six bedrooms, offering insights into ancient lifestyle and housing. Clothing items, such as a colorful piece of cloth, a shawl, and a skirt, were also found.

Shirwalkar emphasized the significance of this research, stating, “This study provides compelling evidence that the Harappan civilization dates back 7,000 to 8,000 years. Collaborative efforts between India’s Department of Archaeology and Deccan College have led to this conclusion, confirming the existence of an advanced civilization in our country during this ancient era, comparable to the advancements of today.”

Earlier in the year, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had highlighted Rakhigarhi in her 2023 budget speech. She emphasized the development of five iconic archaeological sites, including Rakhigarhi, with the construction of on-site museums. The plan aims to showcase the antiquities uncovered at Rakhigarhi, which is now recognized as the largest Harappan site spanning 350 acres, in a museum near the site, estimated to be worth ₹23 crores.

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Vengaivayal Faeces In Water Tank Incident: One Year On, No Concrete Action By ‘Dravidian Model’ DMK Govt

By
The Commune
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A year has passed since human feces were discovered inside an overhead water tank supplying water to Scheduled Caste residents of Vengaivayal in Pudhukottai. Despite the gravity of the incident, the investigation has failed to yield any arrests or significant breakthroughs, leaving both the affected SC village and nearby caste Hindu villagers in a state of disarray.

The incident, which came to light on 26 December 2022, prompted an initial probe by the Pudhukottai district police. However, the case was later transferred to the CB-CID in January of the following year. The water tank, a crucial piece of evidence in the ongoing investigation, currently remains unused.

Despite continuous police deployment since the discovery, normalcy remains elusive for the villagers. The mere passage of time has done little to ease the anguish and frustration of those affected, with no tangible progress in the case.

As the one-year anniversary of this disturbing incident marks its solemn presence, the lack of arrests and accountability has prompted public outcry. Critics have not spared the ruling DMK government, accusing them of irresponsibility in handling the matter, particularly as they proclaim themselves as flagbearers of social justice and caste indiscrimination.

Netizens have taken to social media platforms, particularly Twitter, to express their discontent and remind the DMK government of the unresolved Vengaivayal incident. The hashtag #பீதண்ணி_திமுக highlighting the lack of progress and demanding justice have gained traction, turning the spotlight back on the issue.

Selvakumar, Vice President of the Tamil Nadu BJP’s Industrial Cell, took to Twitter to emphasize that “The conditions persist unchanged even after a year,” highlighting the one year of  Vengaivayal water tank incident.

A Twitter account underscored the principle that “delayed justice is tantamount to denied justice.”

A Twitter user criticized the DMK, stating that they are merely observing the issue from a distance without taking any decisive actions.

Palani N Kanagaraj, District President of TNBJP (Dindigul West), tweeted that the DMK, known for its claims of championing social justice and caste equality, has yet to see decisive action. He expressed concern that even after a year, the police seem hesitant to arrest those responsible for contaminating the water consumed by the Scheduled Castes in the government.

 

Another Twitter user lamented, “The government relies on the votes and hard work of depressed castes, yet it seems to have no time to address the challenges they face. While the government is quick to comment on issues in places like Manipur and Israel, it appears to be ignoring the cries of the people in Vengaivayal who face daily struggles.”

https://twitter.com/Abitha96960262/status/1739568457463841177?t=jfLCp6LvhZP9Z3bAfxGyGw&s=19

 

Another user tweeted, “What impediment does the Dravidian model face in identifying the culprits who contaminated the water supply for the people of Vengaivayal and presenting them to the residents of Vengaivayal?”

As no justice has been delivered so far, read how the self-proclaimed champions of social justice in Kollywood have maintained a stoic silence on the matter – Vengaivayal: The Stench Emanating From Dravidian Model Of Social Justice

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“Everyone Talking About A Hindu Temple, Lord Ram, That’s Not How You Build A Modern Nation”: Congress Leader Sam Pitroda Irked At Nation Celebrating Ram Mandir

By
The Commune
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In a recent interview, Sam Pitroda, Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, has expressed concern over the nation coming together in celebrating the construction of the grand Ram Janmabhoomi Temple at Ayodhya. He said that “too much importance is being given to religion” leading to “democracy being undermined” in India.

His comments come just weeks before the planned inauguration and consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Notably, Pitroda has a history of making remarks critical of temple-related issues.

Pitroda remarked, “When a nation is involved in Ram Temple. That bothers me. To me, religion is a personal thing. Don’t confuse it with the national agenda. The national agenda should focus on education, employment, growth, economy, inflation, health, environment, and pollution. This is not how you build a modern nation.“.

Furthermore, Pitroda made a direct critique of the Indian populace, stating, “Everyone is talking about a Hindu temple. Everyone talks about Lord Ram. This is not how you build a modern nation.”

In an interview with news agency ANI, he emphasized, “We have seen that the nations built on religion, whether it is Israel or Pakistan, are very different from the nations built on democracy, freedom, human rights, diversity, and inclusion like America. That’s what we want. Our founding fathers very clearly articulated, understood, and put it in our constitution that everybody is equal.”

Pitroda added, “I don’t care about the religion you practice. I have to respect you for who you are, not your religious beliefs. I won’t dictate what you eat or pray for; that’s your personal freedom. When the entire nation is focused on the Ram Temple and related matters, it deeply concerns me.”

Pitroda later clarified his stance on religion, saying, “I said my wife is very religious. I am not a religious person. She has a little temple at home. It’s fine. She is entitled to do that. But don’t get me involved. I am not a religious person. That doesn’t mean I don’t agree with what she does. That’s her privilege. I have said earlier that I have outsourced my religion to my mother and my wife. They are doing a great job. I don’t interfere.”

He concluded by expressing discomfort with the Prime Minister’s frequent visits to temples, saying, “Religion is something very personal. Don’t nationalize it. Don’t use it for political gains. A Prime Minister is spending time in temples all the time. It bothers me. I would rather have him go to schools, libraries and scientific institutions and not visit lots of temples. But that’s my view. People have to decide how they feel about it.”

In addition to his comments on religion, Pitroda was questioned about the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). He emphasized the importance of proper handling of votes and called for trust in the election commission. He urged political parties, especially the INDI Alliance, to prioritize this issue in light of the upcoming 2024 elections, which he believes will shape India’s future. He expressed his concerns about democracy being undermined and the excessive focus on religion in the country’s political discourse.

This is not the first time Sam Pitroda has made statements critical of Hindu temples. In June 2023, he asserted that temples would not create jobs and suggested that temple-goers were aligned with the BJP and RSS, a group he believed constituted only 30 percent of the population.

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BJP MP Pratap Simha Calls Out Leftist ‘News’ Outlet ‘The South First’ For Falsely Accusing His Brother, Editor Justifies Report Saying “Others” Mentioned In FIR

By
The Commune
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A news report carried by a news portal named ‘The South First’ alleged that Mysore BJP MP Pratap Simha’s brother Vikram Simha was booked in an illegal wood felling and tree smuggling scam.

The report quoted Congress party’s X handle as well as some officials in the Forest department as the source of information for this allegation.

However it has come to light that the allegations are not entirely true with BJP MP Pratap Simha sharing the FIR copy.

In the FIR copy, the names of A1 and A2 do not feature Vikram Simha, instead mention a Rakesh Shetty, s/o Narayana Shetty, from Nandagodanahalli village, near Arehalli highway, Belur taluk as A1 and a Jayamma, w/o Sudhakara Shetty, Nandagodanahalli village, near Arehalli highway, Belur taluk as A2. The FIR also states that the accused are hiding/absconding

Additionally, the items recovered list included in the FIR states, “At Nandagodanahalli village, survey no 16 and nearby areas, for felling trees without the permission of the govt, (01) Hitachi model type JX110 Super Machine Serial number S110-10226, (02) Hitachi model type EX110 Super Machine Serial number S110-10649, (03) tractor-tiller without registration number, (04) power saws for cutting wood (2 of them) these items have been seized on behalf of the govt and taken to Gandekatte Forest Storehouse”

According to sources, the seized vehicles are tractors and some machines which are alleged to be earth movers.

What is even more interesting in South First’s report is that they spoke to Hassan’s Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) R Ravishankar who “officially confirmed to South First the legal action, citing Vikram Simha’s purported attempt to smuggle wood by chopping down over 100 scheduled trees on the government’s revenue land.”

When the accused names don’t mention a Simha, how can the officials confirm that he was involved in the scam is perplexing.

The Executive Editor of the outlet Anusha Ravi Sood justified the news saying that the FIR mentions “others” implying that it “could” include his brother.

She also tried to substantiate her claims saying that the Hassan’s Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) and Karnataka Congress Minister holding the forests portfolio are on record naming Vikram Simha.

However many on social media alleged that it seems like an attempt to bring disrepute to MP Pratap Simha who was recently in the news the Parliament attackers held visitor passes issued in the name of the BJP MP.

This is not the first time that The South First has been caught peddling misinformation. Earlier in December 2023, the news outlet amplified fake news about the logo of National Medical Commission (NMC) based on a tweet written by propagandist Dr. Abby Philips (@TheLiverDoc).

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Dravidianist Handle Promoted By DMK Peddles Half-Truths About Gujarat Receiving Advance Funds As Relief, TN BJP Leader SG Suryah Rebuts False Claims

By
The Commune
-

The release of funds from the Central Government to the Tamil Nadu state government in the backdrop of the devastating floods in the state has been a point of discussion for the DMK and its gang of Dravidianists to this day.

One Dravidianist named Boodham (@angry_birdu, a rabid anti-Hindu hate spewing propaganda handle promoted by DMK) made a post stating that the Centre gave an advance of ₹1000 crore rupees from the NDRF fund within three days of the storm hitting Gujarat. He asked whether people expected EPS to question the Union government as to why the same was not done for Tamil Nadu. He added in his post, “That’s not it. He bent down well and buttressed the BJP!”

Responding to this, State Secretary of Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party, SG Suryah wrote, “Without the basic knowledge that funds will be released from the NDRF only if there is no SDRF fund balance and this guy is questioning him (EPS).”

To this, the Dravidianist handle replied claiming, “On 29 April 2021, SDRF funds of 529 crores had already reached Gujarat. The cyclone hit the state on 17 May. Since the SDRF fund became empty by then, did they allocate additional funds of 1000 crores from the NDRF fund on 20 May?”

To this, Suryah replied saying, “Your problem is you’re a liar & #DMK hack. So propagating selective data is your art; but you can’t fool for long. Tamil Nadu had ₹ 813 + ₹900 Cr SDRF when this cyclone hit us. As per due procedure, NDRF will be released only after HLC recommendation ONLY in case the SDRF is less/not available. Tamil Nadu too got money from NDRF when it didn’t have money in SDRF same like how Gujarat did which you’re very against at. So START your next lie camouflaged as a உத்தமன்.”

Suryah also shared screenshots of basic information on how SDRF and NDRF fund allocation worked.

According to the National Disaster Management Policy, the primary responsibility for disaster management lies with the respective State Governments. In cases of natural disasters that are officially declared, State Governments allocate financial relief to affected individuals using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), which is already at their disposal. This allocation follows the approved criteria and norms set by the Government of India (GOI). However, in the case of exceptionally severe disasters, additional financial aid is provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), following a specific procedure that includes an assessment carried out by an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT).

The allocation of funds to each State’s State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for each fiscal year during the entire Award period is determined by successive Finance Commissions, which are established under Article 280 of the Constitution. The 15th Finance Commission, in particular, has introduced a new methodology for state-wise fund allocation. This method considers various factors such as a state’s capacity (as indicated by expenditure), risk exposure (including geographical area and population), hazard, and vulnerability (as indicated by a risk index), rather than solely relying on expenditure-based criteria as in the previous approach.

A 3-tier system is in place to calculate additional financial assistance from the NDRF. Initially, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT), which includes representatives from sectoral Ministries/Departments and officials from the respective State, conducts an on-site assessment. The IMCT’s findings are then reviewed by the Sub-Committee of the National Executive Committee (SC-NEC), which is chaired by the Union Home Secretary and includes representatives from various concerned Ministries.

Subsequently, the recommendations put forth by the SC-NEC are reviewed and approved by the High-Level Committee (HLC), chaired by the Honorable Union Home Minister. The HLC comprises the Union Finance Minister, Union Agriculture Minister, and Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog as its members. Once the HLC grants its approval, funds are disbursed from the NDRF.

A netizen also shared some data to enlighten further. His post indicated that since 2014, Tamil Nadu has received a cumulative disaster relief fund exceeding ₹12,000 Crores, comprising contributions from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), and State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF). Notably, post-2019-20, Uttar Pradesh has not been allocated any funds under the National Disaster Response Fund. These facts expose the inaccuracies in DMK’s claims against the central government, revealing a different narrative that challenges their assertions.

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