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“If Nagaland People Who Eat Dog Meat Have So Much Self-Respect”: I.N.D.I. Ally DMK Leader Makes Racist Comments Against Nagaland People, TN Guv Hits Back

By
The Commune
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In a recently viral video clip, RS Bharathi, a prominent member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), is seen delivering a speech at an event organised to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of former DMK chief M. Karunanidhi. 

However, his comments have generated controversy, as he expressed his frustrations about the Governor’s actions. Bharathi’s words were direct and unapologetic, as he criticised the Governor’s role in creating “problems” for the ruling government.

Bharathi remarked, “What is the governor doing? He just wants to create problems for the ruling government. We have seen so many governors, but what this governor does is create a fuss and drags us into a fight. He refuses to sign the bills we send. I addressed a gathering about what happened to him in Nagaland; they chased him away. Don’t mistake me; I am just quoting an example. The people of Nagaland eat dog meat. If someone who eats dog meat themselves has so much self-respect that they chased away this governor, then imagine how much self-respect Tamils, who consume food with salt, would have. The day he was chased away, the people of Nagaland celebrated it like Deepavali.”

The comments in the video prompted a swift response from Governor RN Ravi, who defended the Nagas and condemned Bharathi’s remarks. The official Raj Bhavan X handle posted a statement that read, “Nagas are brave, honest, and dignified people. Thiru R S Bharathi, a senior DMK leader, publicly insulting them as ‘Dog eaters’ is scurrilous and unacceptable. I urge Mr. Bharathi not to hurt a community of which the whole of India is proud.”

In response to Governor Ravi’s criticism, Bharathi clarified his remarks to The New Indian Express, stating, “I concur with his statement that Nagas are brave, and that’s why they chased him away from their state. I meant that if even Nagas could chase him away, then Tamils are certainly capable of doing the same. I will address the press and provide a more detailed response on Monday.”

This is not the first time RS Bharathi has run his mouth in this fashion.

During an event in Ambattur, Chennai in 2021, DMK leader RS Bharathi made derogatory remarks about the then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Edappadi Palaniswami. He said, “He has forgotten with whose help, this dog, this man sat on the CM’s chair. Those who kick the ladder that they used for climbing up has never met a good end. I would say even MGR is also like that. MGR was nurtured and made into a leader by this movement. But you know what happened when he betrayed. He passed away without being able to speak.”.

He also made disrespectful comments about J. Jayalalithaa, implying that he was responsible for sending her to jail in the TANSI case and even suggested speaking to her from her memorial. He said, “Go wake her up from the samadhi [memorial] and ask”. He also added, “Recently, Jayalalithaa’s memorial hall was opened on January 27. They gave ₹40,000 per bus from all over Tamil Nadu. They gave ₹2000 to those who boarded the bus. They picked them up and dropped them off at Marina Beach. Edappadi and OPS thought that the whole crowd would come to the Jayalalithaa memorial. But the crowd thought, instead of visiting that ‘moodhevi’ (a derogatory slang in Tamil), they visited Kalaignar’s [Karunanidhi’s] memorial”.

RS Bharathi sparked controversy with derogatory comments about Dalit judges when he spoke at an event held at the DMK youth wing headquarters in 2020. During his speech, the DMK MP implied that individuals from the SC (Scheduled Caste) community became judges solely because of handouts (alms or “picchai”) provided by the Dravidian Movement.

This present incident highlights the equation between members of the ruling DMK party and Governor Ravi, with accusations and confrontations becoming a recurring theme. The recent petrol bomb attack on the Raj Bhavan also saw DMK members and certain sections of the media downplaying its severity. 

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“Dereliction Of Duty”: Madras High Court Judge Criticizes Police Inaction Against DMK Ministers Participation In ‘Eradicate Sanatana Dharma’ Conference

By
The Commune
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Justice G. Jayachandran of the Madras High Court, in a non-binding statement, has pointed out that the Tamil Nadu police failed in their duty by not taking action against Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekarbabu for their participation in a conference aimed at the “annihilation of Sanatana Dharma” in Chennai on 2 September 2023.

The judge expressed, “Given the police’s inaction against those making inflammatory speeches to eradicate Sanatana Dharma, the petitioner is now seeking permission to organize a meeting aimed at countering the Dravidian ideology.”

This observation was made in the context of dismissing a petition filed by Magesh Karthikeyan from Thiruverkadu in Chennai.

Justice Jayachandran emphasized, “No one can expect courts to aid them to propagate ideas to create ill-will among the public. Some members of the ruling party and ministers took part in the meeting aimed at eradicating Sanatana Dharma, yet the police have not taken any action, which is dereliction of duty on the part of the police.”

Furthermore, he stated, “Acceding to the petitioner’s request would likely lead to further disruptions in the peace and tranquility of the public.”

The judge rejected the petitioner’s argument that conducting a meeting against the Dravidian ideology was his fundamental right, asserting that, “No person in this country can have a right to propagate divisive ideas and conduct a meeting to abolish or eradicate any ideology. The co-existence of multiple and different ideologies is the identity of this country. This court is of the view that a person in power should realise the danger of speech [causing] fissiparous tendency and behave responsibly and restrain themselves from propagating views which will divide people in the name of ideology, caste and religion. Instead, they may concentrate on eradicating intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health, corruption, untouchability, and other social evils”.

The Sanatana Dharma Controversy

The Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association organized the “Eradicate Sanatana Conference” on 2 September 2023 at Kamarajar Arangam, Teynampet, Chennai.

Santana or Sanatana Dharma is the original name of what we know and call as the Hindu religion today.

DMK President and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, who is also a Minister in his father’s cabinet attended the event. Ironically, the meeting was also attended by Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister PK Sekarbabu.

Speaking at the “Eradicate Sanatan Conclave”, DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said “The title of this conference has been excellently coined. You’ve named it as ‘Abolish Sanatanam Conference’ and not ‘Oppose Sanatanam Conference’, so my best wishes to that.”

“Mosquitoes, dengue, flu, malaria, corona – we should not oppose these things. They’ve to be eradicated completely. Same is the case with Santanam (Hinduism). Our first work should be to abolish/eradicate Sanatanam instead of opposing it. So, my appreciations to you all for giving an apt title to the meeting.“, DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, who is the son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, has firmly refused to apologize for his comment characterizing Sanatana Dharma as a disease that should be eliminated. He has reiterated his readiness to face any legal consequences for his statements.

Following the massive backlash, MK Stalin himself had asked his party leaders to refrain from making anymore statements on Sanatana Dharma. However, Udhayanidhi Stalin did not to heed his father’s advice. He had reiterated that the party (DMK) was formed with the goal of eradicating Sanathana Dharma and will continue to work towards achieving it.

But, earlier in October 2023, in an affidavit submitted to the Madras High Court court, DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said that he made the eradicate Sanatana Dharma remarks in “personal capacity” and not as a Minister.

Very recently, Senior Counsel P. Wilson, representing Udhyanidhi Stalin in a quo warranto petition filed by members of Hindu Munnani, refused to submit a video clip of Udhayanidhi’s speech as instructed by Justice Anita Sumanth.

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More Than 2000 Eggs Supplied To Govt Schools In Erode Found Rotten

By
The Commune
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Over the past few days, a total of 2,115 eggs provided to noon-meal centers at government schools in the Kodumudi and Modakkurichi blocks of Erode district were discovered to be in a rotten state when they were boiled for serving.

Every week, approximately 92,000 eggs are delivered to primary and middle schools in the district as part of the mid-day meal program for students in Classes I to VIII. There are 126 schools in Modakkurichi taluk and 90 schools in Kodumudi taluk that receive weekly egg supplies.

School cooks and organizers at numerous noon-meal centers in these schools observed the spoiled condition of the eggs on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. They reported the issue to school authorities, and the eggs were not served to the students. Officials from the Noon Meal Program at the Collectorate were informed.

According to department sources, a total of 1,348 rotten eggs were discovered in 27 schools in Modakkurichi taluk and 767 in 13 schools in Kodumudi taluk. These schools had received the eggs on November 1 for serving to children over three days.

The supplier of the eggs was instructed to replace the spoiled ones, which they did on Friday. Additionally, the department collected egg samples for testing.

A poultry farmer suggested that the extreme weather conditions could have led to the hens becoming infected. However, both the hens and the eggs may appear normal despite the infection.

There have been several instances in the recent past when government school children have fallen sick after consuming lunch consisting of rotten eggs.

On 3 February 2023, 12 students including eight boys and four girls complained of stomach pain, vomiting, and fainting after eating lunch consisting of eggs.

On February 25, 2022, 25 students from the Athiya Nallur Panchayat Union Primary School in Puduchattaram, near Chidambaram, were admitted to the Chidambaram government hospital after fainting on the school. It was reported that the students were given rotten eggs.

Same Suppliers Accused Of Corruption Supplying Eggs?

According to an RTI filing regarding the Tamil Nadu government’s procurement of eggs for the midday meal scheme, the DMK Stalin government has given contracts to the same companies that Stalin accused of corruption when he was in opposition.

Despite the fact that the DMK has been in power for more than two years, no investigation into the AIADMK regime’s alleged egg procurement scandal has taken place. Furthermore, the RTI revealed that the DMK government has also awarded the egg tender to subsidiaries of a company that was fined for providing substandard items in the Tamil Nadu government’s “Pongal package” for Pongal 2022.

Suvarnabhoomi Enterprises Private Limited, is a company that is linked to Christy Foods Private Limited which had provided low-quality Pongal items. This Suvarnabhoomi Enterprises Private Limited has been given the contract for supply of eggs in all four regions of the state.

It is to be noted that Christy group is under the scrutiny of the Income Tax department in connection with a ₹1500 crore scam in public distribution system.

Natural Foods, which was served show-cause notice by the Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Coporation (TNCSC) for providing substandard items in Pongal gift hamper, is still engaged for supplying eggs.

What is more shocking is that Tamil Nadu Minister for Social Welfare and Women Empowement Geetha Jeevan had revealed that Christy group were not blacklisted and hence they were allowed to participate in the tender.

“All egg suppliers and bidders were present while choosing the firms which quoted the least. So, there was no violation in tender norms.”, she was quoted saying.

Despite several instances of children falling sick after consuming spoilt eggs, there seems to be no action taken against erring companies by the DMK government.

(With input from The Hindu)

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When Suhasini Maniratnam Revealed How Her Uncle Kamal Haasan Used To Drop Her In College Without Wearing Pants

By
The Commune
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Even as Kamal Haasan faces allegations of kissing an underage actress without her consent, another episode has come to light in which he made women of his own family uncomfortable with his antics.

These instances of Kamal’s misdemeanors come in light of the host of Bigg Boss and part-time politician, issuing a red card to expel actor Pradeep Antony from the Bigg Boss house, citing “women’s safety”.

During the episode that aired on 4 November 2023, Kamal Haasan greeted the contestants, many of whom displayed their stance against Pradeep by wearing red cloth on their hands. This symbolic protest was initiated by Kamal Haasan during the season’s premiere, where he distributed the red cloth to all contestants, encouraging them to use it as a means to stand against injustice.

The episode took a significant turn as Pradeep Antony, one of the season’s most influential contestants, was issued a red card due to concerns raised by the majority of contestants regarding “women’s safety” in his presence. Pradeep had garnered considerable attention for his unapologetic behavior and unique game strategy.

Numerous contestants, including Jovika, Maya, Poornima, Nixen, Raveena, Vishnu, Cool Suresh, Annabarathi, and Saravana Vickram, voiced their grievances against Pradeep. They cited instances of his making insensitive remarks about women and intimidating fellow contestants, thus creating an uncomfortable atmosphere in the house. Despite repeated objections to his behavior, Pradeep displayed a lack of remorse.

Pradeep was given an opportunity to present his perspective, during which he claimed that others in the house had engaged in similar behavior and used offensive language. He expressed his commitment to protect all the contestants as an artist but not as a competitor. During his explanation, Manichandra interjected, revealing that Pradeep had used the restroom without locking the door in the presence of women. When he was asked to lock the door for the safety of women, he responded inadequately. Pradeep admitted to having acted intentionally in this manner, but Kamal Haasan abruptly halted him from providing further details, thus preventing him from fully presenting his side of the story.

Kamal Haasan then conducted individual interviews with all the contestants to gauge their opinion on whether Pradeep should be issued a red card or allowed to continue in the game. The majority of participants supported the decision to give him a red card.

In the confession room, Kamal Haasan explained the decision to Pradeep, emphasizing that it was not a personal choice but the result of a democratic process. He stressed that the safety of women was his top priority and that he had consulted the show’s organizers. Kamal Haasan made a surprising revelation by stating that he would have left the show if Pradeep had been allowed to continue.

He said, “My opinions on this issue, you would’ve understood a little by now. But basing it only on my opinion.. just because I hold the card, I can’t use it to express my anger or take a side and take a decision. I’ve gone through a democratic process. The majority of them don’t want you to stay in this house. Importantly, women don’t feel safe. So, instead of going there again and engaging in a war of words, you can leave from here. Your suitcase will reach you.” Pradeep Anthony gracefully accepted the decision and left.

In light of this, many netizens lashed out at Kamal Haasan for shunting out Pradeep from the house undemocratically. Kamal’s past deeds as an actor has come back to haunt him with netizens questioning his virtue-signalling on “women safety”.

It is worth noting that Kamal Haasan was once accused of kissing an underage actress on screen without her consent. The alleged incident occurred during the shooting of the movie Punnagai Mannan, during which he kissed Rekha, a 16-year-old actress who had just completed 10th grade back then.

In an interview with a YouTube channel, actress Rekha said, “I had no idea about the kissing scene. I was only 16 at the time. Neither Kamal nor Director Balachander informed me that there would be a kissing scene. I felt horrible after filming the kissing scene.”

Now another anecdote by former actress and filmmaker Suhasini Maniratnam who is also the niece of Kamal Haasan has surfaced in which she notes how her uncle Kamal used to drop her at college without wearing pants.

In part/episode 13 of Zee Tamil’s show titled “Weekend With Stars” that was aired in 2018, Suhasini Maniratnam shares about her early life and her relationship with Kamal Haasan.

Sharing her experience with anchor Archana Chadhoke, Suhasini says “Sometimes, shooting happens opposite to our college. The shooting of Ilamai Oonjal Aadugiradhu was going on. Till then, I had kept it as a secret and nobody knew the fact that Kamal is my chitthapa (uncle). The song ‘Nee Kettal Naan Maatenendra Solven Kanna’ where Kamal will be smoking and Sripriya takes it off, that scene was being shot there. Everybody were going crazy saying ‘Kamal Haasan has come, Kamal Haasan has come, We’ve to go and see’ and I told them ‘I won’t come, I won’t come’ but they took me anyway. After going there, I was standing somewhere hidden at the back and then Kamal shouts ‘Aye!’ and calls me by a name. Shall I tell that name? ‘Chu Chu, come here’, he said. I was so embarrased”

She jovially says “I’ve a beautiful name Suhasini and he called me Chu Chu! Yea that’s my name. He called me that and people beside me started asking ‘Why is Kamal calling you with a weird name?’ to which Kamal said ‘You don’t know? She’s my daughter. My brother’s daughter’. That’s it. I got jittered. After that I became quite popular in college.”

She further goes on to say “Then, sometimes Kamal used to drop me at college. In those times, I don’t know whether you remember. There used to be a dress for karate. He won’t be wearing anything under. He used to be doing karate at home. Down, only his underpants will be there. He used to say that he has bought a new car and will drop me at college in that. I used to beg him saying ‘Please wear pants and come. Or atleast wear shorts and come.’ to which he would say ‘Chee chee, I won’t get out of the car. I’m a big star. And that too will I step outside ladies college?’. But then correctly he will come, he will get down and open the door for me. That’s it! The entire Queen Mary’s will be watching Kamal Haasan and his legs would.. Ayyo! I would be so ashamed! I used to yell ‘why are you doing like that?’. But he is like that only. Always doing galatta.”

A clipping of the above video is now going viral on social media with netizens condemning Kamal’s hypocrisy.

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Capital Chennai’s Chaos: Potholed Roads In Monsoon Offer Free Mud Baths

By
The Commune
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Feature Image Courtesy: Sidharth.M.P X handle

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on 21 September 2023, that a comprehensive survey of the road conditions in Chennai and various districts across the state will be initiated in the coming week. This decision came in response to a growing chorus of grievances from the public regarding the deplorable state of roads in the region, which has only worsened with the onset of North East monsoons.

Stalin pledged his personal commitment to overseeing the efforts to enhance and repair the dilapidated road infrastructure. The persistently dire condition of roads in Chennai, compounded by the recent heavy rainfall, has left commuters in a state of considerable discomfort. The roads have essentially turned into veritable mud baths, making daily travel an arduous ordeal for the hundreds of employees who rely on these routes to earn their livelihoods.

Critics argue that the government’s response to this predicament has been conspicuously lacking in urgency and efficiency. The condition of Chennai’s roads serves as a stark reminder of the administration’s under-preparedness for the monsoons.

The rains have exposed the pathetic condition of many roads including those that lead to the offices of big international companies in the heart of the city.

The roads in Guindy Industrial Estate turned into a marshy mess just after a few spells of rain.

The main road adjoining the gate of Olympia Tech Park which is one of the busiest junctions in the city has also turned into nightmare for motorists.

The shortcut from St. Thomas Hospital near Military area which leads to Olympia Tech Park has turned into a muddy pool causing extreme inconvenience and posing serious threat to motorists as it leads to skidding.

In a few cases, authorities sprung into action after it was highlighted by a prominent journalists.

However, many areas in the city have pot-holed roads posing serious hazard and causing severe traffic jams.

Netizens have taken to social media to vent their frustrations, expressing disappointment in the DMK government’s failure to uphold its promise of ensuring better road infrastructure prior to the monsoon season. They have shared images and accounts of the abysmal road conditions in Chennai, underlining the need for immediate action to rectify this pressing issue.

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Is US Trying To Engineer Regime Change In Bangladesh To Bring A Radical Islamist Party To Power?

By
Balaji Subramanian
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There are clear signs that the United States of America is interfering in the affairs of Bangladesh and trying to get rid of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. Elections are set to place in Bangladesh in January 2024, with the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, seeking a third consecutive term.

Sheikh Hasina has held the position of Prime Minister in the country since 2009 and is known for her centrist political views and has been very active on the international stage, representing Bangladesh in various global forums and advocating for issues such as climate change, refugee crises, and regional cooperation. However, now the incumbent is in trouble with the US which wants a political change to take place.

Now it seems the US is leaning towards the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which was founded in 1978 by General Ziaur Rahman, a former military officer who became the country’s President. BNP at present gets a lot of support from the Islamists who want Sharia law implemented in one of the most secular Muslim-majority countries. 

Just two months before the elections, there are allegations that the United States government, its agencies, and the media with ties to them are involved in a “regime change operation” in Bangladesh. Efforts are currently underway to manipulate the public’s perception of the current Bangladeshi Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, portraying her as an “authoritarian leader.” The Joe Biden-led US government is being accused of interfering in the election process under the guise of “protecting democracy” and ensuring “free and fair elections” in the Islamic Republic.

Also, whenever the photo of a political leader from Asia, Africa, or South America appears in Time Magazine, it must be understood that their time has run out. The US which has powerful state and non-state agencies is utilizing its supportive media outlets, and local representatives in Bangladesh with the resolute in its pursuit of a ‘regime change initiative’ under the pretext of reinstating democratic governance.

 

In fact, in a statement, Hasina said, “They (US) are trying to eliminate democracy and introduce a government that will not have a democratic existence…It’ll be an undemocratic action,”.

In her own Parliament, she said, “They are trying to eliminate democracy and introduce a government that will not have a democratic existence,”.

https://twitter.com/WorldTimesWT/status/1647540843539046403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1647540843539046403%7Ctwgr%5Ef8a254754fc0a1c868526bd5ae3894a76c1ad3d6%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.opindia.com%2F2023%2F11%2Funited-states-regime-change-operation-bangladesh-election-sheikh-hasina-government%2F

 

Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury, who is a journalist based in Bangladesh has been writing for months about how the US has been interfering in Bangladesh’s internal politics.

In an article that he wrote for OpIndia, Choudhury says, “During the past fourteen years, Sheikh Hasina has been committedly confronting Islamists and jihadists thus forcing Islamists on run. But, despite his disastrous retreat from Afghanistan and pushing the country to the mercy of Taliban mullahs, it seems US President Joe Biden did not learn any lesson. He is now repeating the same blunder in Bangladesh by extending patronization to Islamist forces in Bangladesh, especially Jamaat-e-Islami and their ideological partner Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).“

With Bangladesh’s upcoming general election scheduled for January 2024, various Islamist groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP, are vigorously striving to regain power with the backing of Western governments, particularly the Biden administration. Due to the determined efforts and lobbying of these Islamist factions, the Biden administration is currently in the process of invoking the Global Magnitsky Act to impose sanctions on a substantial number of leaders from the ruling party, as well as members of civil and military administrations, on allegations of corruption and money laundering. These measures could potentially serve as a justification for these Islamist groups to garner increased local support in the country.

In 2014, Islamists conducted organized bombings and arson incidents targeting religious minority groups, notably singling out the Hindu community. This was in retaliation for their perceived “offense” of supporting the Awami League in the elections. During this period, Hefazat called for the transformation of Bangladesh into a Caliphate, while the BNP and Jamaat demanded the reinstatement of a “caretaker government” system to supervise elections, a practice that had been eliminated by Bangladesh’s Jatiya Sangshad (National Parliament).

For a long time unable to find any political traction, Jamaat-e-Islami and its ideological partner, the BNP, have consistently labeled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the leaders of the ruling Awami League as “agents of Hindus and India” which is a powerful call to divide this secular country.

In certain statements, both Jamaat and BNP have accused Sheikh Hasina of appointing Hindus to influential positions within government offices, the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary. They have even gone so far as to assert that Sheikh Hasina is transforming Bangladesh into a Hindu-dominated state or a subservient entity to India. Regrettably, these harmful assertions have not been adequately refuted by the ruling party or the state apparatus.

Many are calling the regime change in Bangladesh a checking mechanism for India which the US sees as a possible opponent in two decades’ time as its economy grows fast. The US has a history of interfering in the affairs of other nations often toppling governments through election manipulation or violent revolution. The US now sees India as the hegemon power in Asia which has the capability to provide net security.

As India also heads for a general election in 2024, what is now taking place in Bangladesh is an ominous sign taking place right in its neighborhood.

(Balaji is a political commentator and columnist. He tweets @LaxmanShriram78)

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Kamal Who Kissed Underage Actress Without Consent Eliminates Bigg Boss Contestant In The ‘Interest Of Women Safety’

By
The Commune
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Irony just died a thousand deaths when Bigg Boss anchor and part-time politician Kamal Haasan, who has been accused of kissing an underage actress on screen without her consent in his early days, eliminated actor Pradeep Anthony from the Bigg Boss house with a red card expressing concerns about “women safety”.

This week’s episode of Bigg Boss Tamil 7 has become a topic of intense discussion and debate, making it one of the most talked-about episodes in the history of the reality show.

The episode saw the issuance of a red card to Pradeep Antony, one of the most influential contestants of this year’s season. Pradeep had garnered considerable attention for his unapologetic behavior and unique game strategy. However, due to concerns raised by the majority of contestants alleging “safety of women” in his presence, he was handed a red card.

During the episode on November 4, Kamal Haasan welcomed the contestants, with most of them wearing red cloth on their hands as a form of protest against Pradeep. During the season’s premiere, Kamal Haasan had distributed red cloth to all the contestants, encouraging them to use it as a symbol of their stand against injustice.

Several contestants, including Jovika, Maya, Poornima, Nixen, Raveena, Vishnu, Cool Suresh, Annabarathi, and Saravana Vickram, expressed their grievances against Pradeep. They cited instances of him making insensitive remarks about women and intimidating fellow contestants, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere inside the house. They also noted his lack of remorse despite repeated objections to his behavior.

Pradeep was given the opportunity to share his perspective, where he stated that many in the house had engaged in similar behavior and used offensive language. He claimed that he would protect all the contestants as an artist but not as a competitor. During his speech, Manichandra interjected, revealing that Pradeep had used the restroom without locking the door in the presence of women. When he was asked to lock the door for the women’s safety, he did not respond appropriately. Pradeep confessed that he had intentionally acted in this manner. Kamal Haasan abruptly halted Pradeep from explaining further, thus preventing him to let explain his side of the story in full.

Kamal Haasan then individually interviewed all the contestants, seeking their opinion on whether Pradeep should receive a red card or be allowed to continue in the game. The majority of the participants favored issuing a red card to him.

In the confession room, Kamal Haasan explained the decision to Pradeep, emphasizing that it was not a personal choice but the result of a democratic process. He stressed that the safety of women was his top priority and that he had consulted the show’s organizers. Kamal Haasan made a surprising revelation by stating that he would have left the show if Pradeep had been allowed to continue.

“My opinions on this issue, you would’ve understood a little by now. But basing it only on my opinion.. just because I hold the card, I can’t use it to express my anger or take a side and take a decision. I’ve gone through a democratic process. Majority of them don’t like you to stay in this house. Importantly, women don’t feel safe. So, instead of going there again and engaging in a war of words, you can leave from here. Your suitcase will reach you.“, told Kamal Haasan which Pradeep Anthony gracefully accepts and leaves.

https://twitter.com/BBTamilVideos/status/1720851067507028004

Pradeep Antony had gained significant attention for his behavior on the show and received applause during weekend episodes, ultimately earning the support of the audience. Following the issuance of the red card, Pradeep took to his social media page to share his response.

Vichithra, one of the show’s strongest contestants, felt that the decision to oust Pradeep was unfair, suggesting that the contestants should have addressed his behavior earlier and set boundaries. Vichithra expressed concern that Pradeep had left the house with a negative image that could impact his life.

VJ Archana said that she personally felt safe with Pradeep and pointed out the hypocrisy of a few and picking on Pradeep alone.

Maya and Poornima expressed their desire for a discussion on the matter and did not anticipate that Pradeep would receive a red card.

Pradeep Antony’s close friend and actor Kavin shared a photo with him, emphasizing that those who know him well will always understand him.

Niroop Nandakumar, in a post, described the decision as unfair and suggested that it was a cruel and unjust way to remove Pradeep from the show. He believed that Pradeep’s stand had triggered the decision.

One user pointed out that Azeem (winner of Bigg Boss Tamil 6) had made transphobic and disrespectful comments but had not received a red card. Another user clarified that Azeem had indeed received a red card, but no action had been taken.

Sanam Shetty, a past contestant, criticized Pradeep’s removal as unfair, expressing disappointment in Kamal Haasan’s decision and the failure to establish the veracity of the allegations against him. She questioned the contestants’ stance, citing their interactions with Pradeep and the lack of action taken against them for various inappropriate behaviors.

Dance choreographer Sathish Krishnan also expressed disappointment over Pradeep’s eviction.

In light of this, many netizens lashed out at Kamal Haasan for shunting out Pradeep from the house undemocratically. Kamal’s past deeds as an actor has come back to haunt him with netizens questioning his virtue-signalling on “women safety”.

It is worth noting that Kamal Haasan was once accused of kissing an underage actress on screen without her consent. The alleged incident occurred during the shooting of the movie Punnagai Mannan, during which he kissed Rekha, a 16-year-old actress who had just completed 10th grade back then.

The visuals of the song “Enna Satham Indha Neram” show Kamal Haasan having sex with the 16 year old actress semi-naked.

In an interview with a YouTube channel, actress Rekha said, “I had no idea about the kissing scene. I was only 16 at the time. Neither Kamal nor Director Balachander informed me that there would be a kissing scene. I felt horrible after filming the kissing scene.”

Kamal Haasan found himself at the receiving end when his support for female wrestlers protesting against Brij Bhushan was mocked on social media. There were even calls to file a POCSO case against him for kissing an underage actress without her permission.

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NIA Arrests 15Th Man In ISIS-Inspired Coimbatore Bomb Blast Case, Once Again Asserts It To Be A Terror Attack

By
The Commune
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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Thaha Nazeer in connection with the car bomb explosion in Coimbatore. Nazeer, employed as a painter at an automobile sales and service company, had a prior encounter with Jamesha Mubeen, the terror suspect who died in the blast outside Kottai Easwaran Temple in Coimbatore.

Nazeer is now the 15th individual to be detained in connection with the case and is suspected of having prior knowledge of the explosion. The NIA has submitted two chargesheets encompassing a total of 11 accused.

Nazeer was taken into custody on Thursday and presented before a special court handling NIA cases in Poonamallee, Chennai, on Friday (3 November 2023)

According to Times of India, Nazeer and Jamesha Mubeen, a 29-year-old resident of Kottaimedu, had met at least three to four days before the car bomb detonation. Their meeting took place at a rental house on HMPR Street in Kottaimedu, where they conversed for over an hour. Significantly, their interaction occurred in a room containing carton boxes with explosive materials. Nazeer encountered Mubeen once again at the same location, just one day prior to the car explosion, during which Mubeen lost his life.

Mubeen’s widow disclosed their meeting with Nazeer during her statement to a judicial magistrate. Subsequently, Nazeer was detained by the NIA based on this revelation. Sources also suggest that Nazeer had prior knowledge of the car bomb explosion. Additionally, Nazeer and Mohammed Thoufiq (25) of Podanur were childhood friends, with the local police having arrested Thoufiq in the aftermath of the car bomb explosion. Reportedly, Mubeen had handed Thoufiq a handwritten document detailing the bomb-making process.

The NIA had filed two chargesheets, one on April 20 and the other on June 2, implicating a total of six accused individuals in this case.

The 2022 Coimbatore Bomb Blast Terror Attack

The 2022 Coimbatore Bomb Blast is a terrorist attack where an LPG cylinder burst inside a Maruti 800 car at around 4.30 am on 23 October 2022, causing the vehicle to explode. The vehicle carrying the improvised explosive device was driven by Jamesha Mubeen. The blast happened outside the famous Kottai Eshwaran Temple. The explosion was initially believed to be an accident but a thorough investigation into the incident, revealed that the cylinder explosion was a terrorist attack committed by Islamic terrorists during the Diwali festival. Nails and ball bearings supposedly meant for inflicting maximum casualties were also recovered from the spot. Investigtors had recovered handwritten paper documents recovered from the house of Jamesha Mubeen listing the popular spots in Coimbatore that they had plans to recce or were already done. Chemicals used for making crude bombs were also found at his house.

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How BJP And Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena Could Benefit From The Maratha Quota Agitation

By
Vipin
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In a climate where the Sakal Hindu Samaj (a coalition of several Hindu socio political organizations) took to the streets, and with Maharashtra witnessing more than 125 rallies, it’s indeed hard to envision the popularity of such demonstrations without the participation of the majority Maratha community. The overwhelming support for these rallies underscores the significant role played by the Maratha community in these events.

In this backdrop of extensive rallies, the sudden demand for Maratha reservation and the subsequent agitation have undeniably left a profound impact on the political landscape of Maharashtra. Both the BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena have astutely capitalized on this issue to their political advantage.

The involvement and influence of the Maratha community in these developments have been pivotal, shaping the dynamics of the region’s politics. The interplay of community support, political maneuvering, and social dynamics has made this issue a central and transformative element in the political narrative of Maharashtra.

Political dynamics in Maharashtra have been in constant flux since 2019. However, signs of political instability emerged earlier, around 2017, when the Shiv Sena began criticizing the BJP, despite being in a coalition government. Initially perceived as friendly banter, this friction continued and escalated over time. The Shiv Sena, realizing that anti-BJP sentiments were gaining momentum, intensified its critique.

Tensions between the Shiv Sena and BJP reached a crucial point when Uddhav Thackeray, in a public meeting in 2018, launched a direct verbal assault on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using strong language. However, despite these differences, the two parties later reconciled and contested together in the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections in 2019.

The turning point occurred when the BJP secured 105 seats, while the Shiv Sena won 63 seats. This led to a power struggle over the Chief Minister’s position, eventually resulting in the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance by NCP, aimed at keeping the BJP out of power. The BJP’s return to power became a reality after the Shinde faction broke away from the MVA and allied with the BJP. Following a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court ordered the Speaker to decide on the disqualification of MLAs by December 31.

The intricate political maneuvering surrounding the Maratha reservation agitation can be summarized as follows:

The agitation was ignited by a man from Jalna district in the Marathwada region, who went on a hunger strike to demand Maratha reservations. This drew police lathi-charges, bringing Jarange Patil to the forefront as the face of the movement. The Maratha community rallied behind Jarange Patil, and opposition parties began visiting him.

As the agitation gained momentum, members of the ruling party engaged in negotiations. Initially, Jarange Patil demanded the inclusion of Marathas from Marathwada as Kunbi in the OBC category. The government accepted this demand and established a committee under Justice Shinde to facilitate the necessary proceedings. Subsequently, Jarange ended his hunger strike. Simultaneously, the OBC community began protesting against Jarange’s demand.

The coincidence of Jarange Patil’s agitation and the Supreme Court’s deadline for deciding on the disqualification petitions is indeed a compelling and intriguing factor. In the complex landscape of Maharashtra politics, the significance of not losing a Chief Minister from the majority community during such a high-intensity agitation cannot be overstated.

Historically, Maharashtra’s politics has been marked by sub-regionalism and caste-based considerations. In the Konkan region, for example, the Kunbi and Maratha communities are roughly equal in numbers and often political rivals. In Vidarbha, the movement led by Punjab Rao Deshmukh ensured that nearly all Marathas obtained the Kunbi certificate, shaping the political landscape. Western Maharashtra and Northern Maharashtra, on the other hand, revolve around issues related to sugarcane cooperatives.

Marathwada, as you’ve rightly pointed out, faces distinctive challenges, including drought, early marriages of girls, and limited landholdings. This region has garnered significant attention and support for the Maratha reservation agitation. Marathwada has a historical pattern of competition between Maratha strongmen and OBC leaders. Before 2014, leaders like former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, a Maratha, and former Home Minister and OBC stalwart Gopinath Munde, emerged as successful grassroots leaders.

Following the passing of leaders like Munde and Deshmukh, Marathwada experienced a leadership vacuum. This vacuum inadvertently allowed Jarange Patil to step in and, at least for the less privileged Marathas, assume a leadership role in the region.

The interplay between regional dynamics, caste considerations, and leadership gaps adds layers of complexity to the Maratha reservation agitation and its political implications. It underscores the intricate nature of politics in Maharashtra and the factors that influence the political landscape.

In a calculated move, Devendra Fadnavis personally assured the OBC community that Marathas would not be included in the OBC category. Shinde, on the other hand, managed Jarange’s protest, and it was notable that the Shiv Sena, particularly a faction of Marathwada leaders, aligned with Shinde. It became evident that both Fadnavis and Shinde stood to gain politically from this agitation.

While the blame for the agitation is often attributed to Sharad Pawar’s opposition, it is important to note that in such situations, when the dominant caste becomes more vocal, the minority caste often consolidates against it. Jarange’s actions, which included a direct attack on Devendra Fadnavis, garnered sympathy from other communities, potentially strengthening the BJP’s position in upcoming elections. Additionally, Devendra Fadnavis, who had faced accusations of sidelining the OBC community, regained popularity among this group. By the end of the agitation, it was clear that Shinde had emerged as a prominent Maratha leader, further solidifying the political landscape.

Vipin is a political analyst and researcher based out of Maharashtra

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BJP’s Amar Prasad Reddy Denied Bail In Flagpole Removal Case For Allegedly Damaging JCB Machine

By
The Commune
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Following the removal of BJP flagpole outside BJP Tamil Nadu President K. Annamalai’s residence in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu police on 21 October 2023 arrested the party’s Sports and Skill Development Cell President Amar Prasad Reddy.

He was reportedly arrested in connection with the attacking and damaging of a JCB machine that was brought to remove the flag pole in Chennai.

Amar Prasad Reddy, who has been arrested in multiple cases, recently saw a glimmer of hope as bail was granted in the Chess Olympiad poster case where he had stuck PM Modi’s picture near MK Stalin’s. However, the legal saga continues as he faces charges related to political protests and an altercation with an assistant inspector.

Initially detained in Tambaram and held in Puzhal Jail, Chennai, the BJP Tamil Nadu functionary’s troubles mounted when he was arrested during a Nungambakkam BJP protest, where he engaged in a heated exchange with an assistant inspector.

In a recent development, Amar Prasad Reddy was brought to court by the police from Chennai in a government bus, related to a case registered in Tenkasi district. In this instance, the court granted him bail, offering a brief respite.

Concurrently, Amar Prasad Reddy’s legal team filed a bail petition in the Chengalpattu District Principal Sessions Court, seeking his release in the flagpole removal case. During the hearing, Amar Prasad Reddy’s advocate argued that his arrest was rooted in political vendetta and that the case was bailable within a few days. He maintained that Amar Prasad Reddy was singled out for throwing stones among a gathering of more than 100 people. However, the judge dismissed the bail petition.

Amar Prasad Reddy is yet to secure bail in two pending cases: the flagpole removal case and the altercation with the assistant inspector. In light of these challenges, Amar Prasad Reddy’s legal team plans to file a bail petition in the Madras High Court as the next step. Amidst this, Amar Prasad Reddy’s wife, Nirosha, has sought a restraining order against the police to prevent slapping Goondas Act against her husband.

Amar Prasad Reddy’s arrest is seen as politically motivated as he is also the joint coordinator of Annamalai’s En Mann En Makkal (My land, My people) yatra which has been garnering an unprecedented response across the state.

He is also very vocal against the ruling DMK government on social media.

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