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Centre Announces Caste Census, DMK Labels It Its Victory; But Records Show No Formal Request To Centre

By
The Commune
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin hailed the Centre’s decision to conduct a caste census alongside the regular census as a significant victory for the DMK and the INDIA bloc in their ongoing struggle for social justice. He framed the announcement as a direct outcome of their persistent efforts. However, this claim appears to be contradicted by an official response in the Rajya Sabha, where the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment stated that the Tamil Nadu government had not made any formal request or representation to the Centre regarding the conduct of a caste survey.

On 30 April 2025, CM Stalin, through his official account on X, expressed skepticism about the Union Government’s timing, suggesting it was politically motivated. “After the failure of all its attempts to deny and delay the much-needed caste enumeration, the Union BJP Government has finally announced that it will be conducted along with the forthcoming Census. But key questions remain unanswered —when will the Census begin? When will it conclude? The timing is no coincidence. With #SocialJustice dominating the #BiharElections narrative, this sudden move reeks of political expediency.” he posted.

Stalin criticized the Prime Minister’s previous stance, recalling how he had once condemned opposition parties for “dividing people on caste” but had now conceded to the very demand he had opposed. “The same Prime Minister who once accused opposition parties of dividing people on caste has now yielded to the very demand, he maligned repeatedly. Caste Census is essential—not optional—for objective policymaking, targeted welfare, and the pursuit of real social justice. You cannot remedy injustice without first recognising its scale. For the Tamil Nadu Government and DMK, this is a hard-earned victory. We were the first to adopt a resolution in the Legislative Assembly demanding #CasteCensus. We championed this cause in every forum. We reiterated this demand in every meeting with the Prime Minister and through multiple letters, consistently urging the Union Government to take responsibility. While others called for state-level caste surveys, we stood firm: Census is a Union subject. Only the Union Government can and should deliver a legally binding caste enumeration under the Census Act. Our stand is now vindicated. Another triumph for DMK and #INDIA Bloc in our arduous social justice journey, driven by the ideals of the #DravidianModel,” he wrote.

However, this narrative is challenged by an official reply in Parliament. On 19 March 2025, in response to an unstarred question (No. 2200) raised by PMK leader Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment clarified that it had not received any communication from the Tamil Nadu government regarding the conduct of a caste survey under the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri B.L. Verma, responded:
(a) & (b) The Department has not received any information from the Tamil Nadu government about plans to conduct a caste survey.
(c) & (d) Therefore, the question of representations does not arise.

Earlier, on 26 June 2024, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a resolution urging the Central Government to conduct a caste census alongside the general census. Although Tamil Nadu had the legal authority to carry out a caste survey independently—just as states like Karnataka and Bihar have done—the DMK-led government argued that census activities fall under the Union List, and therefore only the Centre should conduct such an enumeration. Despite having the means, the state chose not to proceed on its own and instead limited its action to passing a resolution.

Now, with the Centre announcing its intention to conduct a caste census, the DMK is portraying the move as a victory, despite having taken no substantial steps beyond symbolic resolutions. This contrast—between public declarations and actual engagement—has reignited debate over Tamil Nadu’s genuine efforts and commitment to pushing for a caste census at the national level.

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DMK Ally Communist Leader Arunan Derogates Kanchi Shankaracharya

By
The Commune
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arunan

In a landmark religious ceremony held on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, Rig Vedic scholar Duddu Satya Venkata Surya Subramanya Ganesha Sharma Dravid from Annavaram, Andhra Pradesh, was formally anointed as the 71st Shankaracharya of the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham on 30 April 2025. Upon initiation into sanyasa, he was conferred the monastic title Satya Chandrashekarendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya.

The ceremony was held in Kanchipuram at the Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple and associated shrines of the Kanchi Mutt, attended by spiritual leaders, scholars, and devotees from across the country. The event coincided with the 2534th birth anniversary celebrations of Adi Shankaracharya, the revered philosopher-saint credited with establishing the Peetham in 482 BCE.

However, Dravidianists and DMK allies could not keep their mouth shut on this momentous occasion and had to just run their mouths. Some uninformed Dravidianists questioned why a junior pontiff was anointed when the senior seer was very much alive – they seemed to follow Vatican traditions to sound so unaware of their Hindu leaders and the rituals involved.

Among those who derogated the Shankaracharya were DMK Ally, Communist leader Arunan. In a post on his X handle, he wrote, “Advaitis, who say that the world is illusion, worship a human being like a god!”

People like Arunan do not understand Hinduism, its rituals, or the concept of Advaita.

A guru is considered God to all Hindus, we even have the saying – Mata Pita Guru Deivam – where the Guru comes before God Himself.

Additionally, if one were to look from an Advaitic perspective, Arunan has hit a self-goal. In Advaita, the philosophy believes in non-duality and the oneness of reality – that there is God within everyone, every being on this planet. Going by this, the junior seer is only worshipping the God within His Guru and His Guru as God Himself – perfectly adhering to Advaita philosophy.

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13 Unsung Heroes Recognized With Padma Awards 2025 For Their Extraordinary Contributions

By
The Commune
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On 28 April 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred 71 Padma awards (4 Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan and 57 Padma Shri) at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I in the Republic Pavilion of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The awards, spanning disciplines such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service, recognized both well-known stalwarts and unsung heroes. Thirteen remarkable individuals—23 women among them, 10 in the Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI categories, and 13 posthumous awardees—were honored for their extraordinary contributions to society:

#1 Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid — Padma Shri (Literature & Education)

The 71-year-old Varanasi-based Vedic scholar and astrologer has devoted his life to preserving India’s Vedic heritage, promoting Vedic learning nationwide through lectures, publications, and mentorship. Born near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, he teaches at Sangveda Vidyalaya and contributes to the Girvanavagvardhini Sabha. He calculated the exact 84-second muhurtam for the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya and a 35-second window for the Ram Mandir Bhoomi Pujan, and later fixed auspicious timings for Kashi Vishwanath Temple’s rejuvenation. Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, from a family of Krishna Yajurveda scholars, continues to travel across India, offering lectures and rituals that preserve the nation’s spiritual heritage.

#2 Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara — Padma Shri (Art)

Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, a 96-year-old puppeteer from Koppal, Karnataka, has been honored with the Padma Shri for her exceptional contributions to Togalu Gombeyaata, a traditional leather shadow-puppetry art form. For over seven decades, she has preserved and promoted this vibrant storytelling tradition, which often narrates epic tales like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Shillekyathara, from a family of Togalu Gombeyaata custodians, has also trained younger generations to continue the legacy. Her lifelong dedication has kept this endangered art form alive.

#3 Stephen Knapp — Padma Shri (Literature & Education)

An American author and researcher, Knapp’s over 55 books—such as The Secret Teachings of the Vedas and The Heart of Hinduism—and hundreds of articles have introduced readers worldwide to India’s ancient knowledge systems, including the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and Srimad Bhagavatam. Through lectures and writings, he has dispelled misconceptions about Indian spirituality and served as a cultural ambassador. Awarded the Padma Shri for his efforts to promote India’s spiritual heritage, Knapp said the honor feels like “Mother India recognizing” his lifelong devotion, and he thanked his spiritual masters for inspiring his work.

#4 Vinod Dham — Padma Bhushan (Science & Engineering)

Vinod Dham, known as the “Father of the Pentium Chip,” has been honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2025 for his transformative contributions to modern computing. Born in Pune in 1950, Dham played a pivotal role in developing the Pentium processor at Intel, revolutionizing personal computing. His strategic acumen also helped NexGen, which was later acquired by AMD, and he contributed to Intel’s first Flash Memory technology. Beyond his work in tech, Dham has supported Indian start-ups and is currently advising the Indian government on semiconductor manufacturing efforts, further championing India’s chip-making ambitions.

#5 Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli (“Aranya Rishi”) — Padma Shri (Art)

Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli, honored with the Padma Shri, is a renowned forest officer, author, and wildlife conservationist, widely known as “Aranya Rishi” (The Forest Sage). A career in Maharashtra’s forest department, especially in Vidarbha’s forests, inspired his literary works and conservation efforts. His books, including bestsellers like Pakshi Jaay Digantara, and dictionaries on birds, animals, and trees, enriched Marathi vocabulary and nature writing. Retiring as deputy chief conservator of forests in 1990, he continued educating others about nature. Chitampalli’s contributions to wildlife sanctuaries and literature make him a celebrated figure in conservation and Marathi literature.

#6 Subhash Khetulal Sharma — Padma Shri (Agriculture)

Subhash Khetulal Sharma, a 73-year-old farmer from Yavatmal, Maharashtra, has transformed his 16-acre farm into a model of natural farming, emphasizing soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. After abandoning chemical farming in 1994, Sharma’s productivity increased significantly by 2000, with his farm producing 400 tonnes annually. He practices a self-sustaining ecosystem, incorporating animal husbandry, rainwater harvesting, and multi-crop cultivation. Sharma’s efforts conserve one crore liters of rainwater annually and recharge groundwater. Recognized with the Padma Shri, he advocates for ecological balance and calls for government policies supporting sustainable agriculture for a better future.

#7 Libia Lobo Sardesai — Padma Shri (Social Work)

At age 100, veteran freedom fighter Libia Lobo Sardesai received the Padma Shri for her daring six-year clandestine radio campaign (1955–61) that galvanized Goa’s liberation. Born in 1924 under Portuguese rule, Sardesai joined the nationalist movement in Bombay and, with her future husband Vaman Sardesai, set up an underground station—Goenche Sodvonecho Awaz/Voz de Liberdade—in the Western Ghats. They broadcast daily updates, urged satyagrahis, and survived harsh wilderness conditions. On 19 December 1961, aboard an Indian Air Force plane, Sardesai announced Goa’s freedom in Konkani and Portuguese, marking the end of 450 years of colonial rule.

#8 Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram — Padma Bhushan (Medicine)

Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram, a pioneering cardiac surgeon from Kerala, was awarded the Padma Bhushan for revolutionizing cardiac care. Returning to India in the mid-1990s, he introduced open-heart surgery and performed Kerala’s first heart transplant in 2003. With over three decades of experience, he overcame challenges like low organ donation rates and emotional difficulties in organ harvesting. Dr. Periappuram also founded the Heart Care Foundation, helping thousands access affordable heart surgeries. He advocates for lifestyle changes to prevent heart disease and plans a “Heart Village” for patient support. His work continues to impact Kerala’s healthcare system significantly.

#9 Sadhvi Ritambhara — Padma Bhushan (Social Work)

Sadhvi Ritambhara, a Hindu saint and social worker from Ludhiana, Punjab, received the Padma Bhushan for her impactful social service and pivotal role in the Ram Mandir movement. Head of Vatsalya Gram, she pioneered a family model for orphans and destitute women and children, providing them shelter and education. A disciple of Swami Parmanand since 1982, Ritambhara—known as Didi Maa—helped guide and pacify Kar Sevaks alongside Uma Bharti during the 1992 Ayodhya movement. Her efforts blend spiritual advocacy with grassroots welfare, reflecting her belief that no one should feel orphaned on sacred Indian soil.

#10 Syed Ainul Hasan — Padma Shri (Literature & Education)

Syed Ainul Hasan, Vice-Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), has been awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions to education and Persian studies. A former professor at JNU’s School of Language, Literature & Culture Studies, he has played a significant role in strengthening Indo-Iranian and Indo-Afghan cultural ties. He was instrumental in establishing the Afghan Resource Centre at JNU and has designed academic courses for several Indian universities. With a long-standing career in teaching and research, he was previously honored with the President of India’s Certificate of Honour in 2017 for his contributions to Persian language and culture.

#11 Jumde Yomgam Gamlin — Padma Shri (Social Work)

Jumde Yomgam Gamlin, a 59-year-old social worker from West Siang, Arunachal Pradesh, has been awarded the Padma Shri for her three decades of dedicated service in drug de-addiction and social reform. Founder of the NGO Mother’s Vision, she runs a 30-bed spirituality-based de-addiction and rehabilitation centre. Her efforts have led to the eradication of marijuana and opium cultivation in parts of Upper Siang, with strong community involvement. Gamlin has helped over 700 individuals recover from addiction and empowered more than 2,000 women through vocational training and financial assistance, blending recovery with livelihood and health awareness initiatives.

#12 Mahavir Nayak — Padma Shri (Art & Culture)

Mahavir Nayak, a renowned Nagpuri singer from Ranchi, has been awarded the Padma Shri for his over 50-year contribution to preserving Jharkhand’s folk music, especially through ragas like Bhinsariya, Faguwa, Pawas, and Mardani Jhumar. Born in 1942 in Uruguttu, near Ranchi, Nayak is known as the “Raja of Bhinsariya Raga.” He actively participated in the Jharkhand statehood movement alongside other folk legends and introduced progressive styles to Nagpuri music. A former HEC employee, he performed across India and abroad, including Taiwan. His daughter now carries forward his musical legacy. Nayak is widely respected for his distinct and rooted singing style.

#13 Anant Nag — Padma Bhushan (Art & Culture)

Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag, awarded the Padma Bhushan, reflected on his decades-long journey in cinema, attributing the honour to the people of Karnataka and a grassroots campaign by fans and colleagues. In an interview with The Hindu, he recalled his early days in theatre, collaborations with Shyam Benegal, and challenges in promoting naturalistic acting in commercial cinema. Though he transitioned to mainstream films for financial reasons, Nag remained committed to subtle performances. He praised new-age directors like Hemanth Rao and Rishab Shetty for giving him impactful roles and expresses a desire for stronger screenwriting in the Kannada industry.

These 13 unsung heroes embody the Padma Awards’ spirit—honoring excellence, dedication, and service in fields that sustain India’s culture, knowledge, and social fabric.

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“Anusha Is Not Tamil Name, Keep Tamil Names For Your Children”, Says ‘Stalin’

By
The Commune
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mk stalin press freedom arrest police foreign trip the wire

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has emphasized the importance of preserving the Tamil language by encouraging the use of Tamil names.

While attending the wedding of the daughter of Mylapore MLA and DMK District Secretary Velu, held at Kalaignar Arangam in the DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam, Stalin offered his blessings to the newlyweds. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “I would like to request not only the bride and groom but also Velu, because he has named his daughter Anusha, which is not a Tamil name, but it is not a problem, but the bride and groom who here today, please give beautiful Tamil names to the children you will have.”

Later, responding to a suggestion from an online user to create a website featuring Tamil names through the Tamil Development Department, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced via his official X account that the Tamil Virtual Academy would soon launch a dedicated platform showcasing a curated list of meaningful and graceful Tamil baby names. The move has been widely appreciated by Tamil language enthusiasts and cultural advocates across the state.

He wrote, “Brother @srinileaks request will be fulfilled. A website containing beautiful Tamil names for children and their meanings will be launched by the Tamil Virtual Academy !”

Netizens pointed out the irony in Stalin asking others to name their children in Tamil while he himself bears the name of a Russian dictator. His wife’s name is Durga which is Sanskrit. His son’s name Udhayanidhi can also be considered Sanskrit. Udhayanidhi’s daiughter name is Tanmaya which is also a Sanaskrit name.

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7 Times Islamic Terrorists Targeted Non-Muslims While Sparing Muslims

By
The Commune
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On 22 April 2025, a brutal terrorist attack unfolded in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Five armed militants ambushed a group of tourists, opening fire after reportedly asking them their names and religions. Twenty-six people were killed and more than 20 injured. Among the dead were 25 tourists, primarily Hindus, and one Christian. Notably, Muslims in the group were spared by the attackers.

This report compiles seven such incidents between 2008 and 2025, where Islamist terrorists deliberately targeted people of other faiths while sparing Muslims, underscoring a disturbing pattern of religiously motivated violence.

#1 Pahalgam Terror Attack

On 22 April 2025, a deadly terrorist attack shook the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, claiming the lives of 26 tourists and injuring several others. Carried out by militants from The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the attackers reportedly asked the victims their names and religions, stripped the male members to check their private parts, before opening fire. Among the dead were 24 Hindus and one Christian, highlighting the religious targeting behind the massacre.

#2 Dhaka Attackers Spared Quran Reciters, Killed Others

On 1 July 2016, Islamic State terrorists attacked Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka, Bangladesh, taking diners hostage. The militants spared those who could recite verses from the Quran, offering them food, while others—mostly foreigners—were tortured and brutally killed. Witnesses said the terrorists identified Muslims and spared them, singling out non-Muslims for execution. At least 20 hostages and two policemen were killed. Bangladeshi nationals were treated more leniently. Rescued hostages revealed chilling details of the night-long ordeal, including text exchanges with loved ones. The siege ended after a military operation stormed the café the following morning.

#3 Quran-Reciters Spared In Deadly Mali Hotel Siege

On 20 November 2015, Islamist militants linked to Al-Mourabitoun stormed the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, Mali, taking 170 hostages and killing 27 people. Witnesses said hostages who could recite Quran verses were released, indicating Muslims were spared. The attackers, shouting “Allahu Akbar,” opened fire and took over the hotel. Al-Mourabitoun, aligned with al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility, demanding prisoner releases and an end to military operations in northern Mali. Malian, French, and U.S. forces launched a rescue, freeing survivors including foreigners. Despite a 2015 peace deal, Mali remains vulnerable to extremist violence in areas outside government control.

#4 Garissa University Attack: Christians Targeted In Deadly Assault

On 2 April 2015, Al-Shabab militants stormed Garissa University College in Kenya, killing 148 people—mostly Christian students—and injuring over 79. The attackers separated Muslims from non-Muslims, sparing the former. This brutal act was part of a wider pattern of Al-Shabab violence in Kenya, including previous killings in Mandera and quarry attacks targeting Christians. Despite police presence, the group executed the Garissa assault with chilling precision. The attack shocked the nation, prompting heightened security and national mourning. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud condemned the targeting of Christians, stating it contradicts Islamic teachings and aims to divide communities.

#5 Westgate Mall Attack: 68 Killed In Nairobi Siege

On 21 September 2013, al-Shabaab militants attacked Nairobi’s Westgate Mall, killing 68 and injuring over 175. Armed with guns and grenades, the attackers targeted shoppers, reportedly allowing Muslims to leave beforehand. The siege lasted four days, with Kenyan forces eventually regaining control. Several attackers were foreign nationals, and suspicions arose over the involvement of American citizens. Among the dead were citizens from the UK, France, Canada, and Ghana. President Uhuru Kenyatta vowed justice. The attack was seen as retaliation for Kenya’s military involvement in Somalia. It remains one of Kenya’s deadliest terrorist attacks.

#6 Turkish Couple Spared In 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack For Being Muslim

During the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Turkish couple Meltem Muezzinoglu and her husband Seyfi were taken hostage at the Oberoi Hotel. They were held overnight with three foreign women while gunmen from Lashkar-e-Taiba stood guard. The terrorists asked all hostages to state their religion. When the Muezzinoglus identified as Muslims, they were told they would not be harmed. The next day, the three non-Muslim women were removed and later reported shot. The couple was eventually rescued by Indian forces. Their friend Ali Arpaciouglu, who escaped earlier, stayed in contact with them throughout the ordeal via texts and one call.

#7 Thai Muslims’ Direct Talks With Hamas Helped Secure Hostage Release

On 27 November 2023, Thai Muslim groups claimed credit for securing the early release of Thai hostages held by Hamas during the Gaza conflict. The Thai-Iran Alumni Association, led by Lerpong Syed, engaged in direct talks with Hamas in Tehran, urging the release of Thai nationals. They emphasized that Thais were not involved in the conflict, leading Hamas to promise unconditional release during a truce. While the Thai government acknowledged multiple diplomatic efforts, including those by Qatar and Iran, the Muslim group said its initiative was crucial in freeing 17 Thai hostages by the third day of the ceasefire.

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When Vijay Sethupathi & Kamal Haasan Took Pakistan’s Position On Kashmir

By
The Commune
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Following the shocking Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent deportation of over 50 Pakistani nationals who had been living illegally in Kashmir for years, social media users have turned their attention toward Tamil actors who previously criticized the abrogation of Article 370 and advocated for a plebiscite in the region.

Actors Vijay Sethupathi and Kamal Haasan, known for their vocal extremist sympathizing opinions, are facing criticism online for their past remarks that were opposing the Indian government’s decision regarding Jammu and Kashmir.

Vijay Sethupathi

In 2019, Vijay Sethupathi publicly criticized the central government’s move to revoke Article 370, arguing that the decision was made without considering the voices of Kashmiri residents. Speaking in an interview with SBS Tamil Australia, he said, “It goes against democratic principles. As Periyar once said, people should have the right to resolve their own issues. Can I interfere in your household matters? You are the one who live I that house and knows what its monthly budget is, children need, and the days affair. Only you can know. I think I may be affectionate towards you, but I cannot administrate you. This the two distinctions, likewise it suits all places. People on the outside can care, but they can’t come in and give suggestions, for example Eelam. We can only speak from what we have heard, only those who live there know the truth.”

Kamal Haasan

Similarly, part-time-politician Kamal Haasan, now seen as aligning with the DMK reportedly in pursuit of a single Rajya Sabha seat, also voiced strong opposition to the central government’s actions. In 2019, he called the move to revoke Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and bifurcate the state into two Union Territories a “direct blow to democracy,” and called the move as an autocratic decision-making process.

“This move is highly regressive. Article 370 and 35A have historical significance, and any changes should have been made through a consultative and inclusive process,” he said.

Not only this, back in February 2019, during a public event in Chennai, Kamal Haasan raised several provocative questions, stating, “Why do the soldiers die? Why should our home’s watchman die? If politicians on both sides (in India & in Pakistan) behave properly, no soldier needs to die. The Line of Control will be under control. Why is India not holding a plebiscite in Kashmir? What are they (Indian government) afraid of?” 

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Times Of India Exposes Parking Fees Scam In Chennai: Texco Continues To Charge Fees After Contract Expiry

By
The Commune
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In a startling revelation, it has come to light that residents in Chennai are being illegally charged for parking in areas such as Marina Beach, Besant Nagar, and T Nagar, despite the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) not authorizing any fee collection. The former parking contractor, Tamil Nadu Ex-Servicemen Corporation (Texco), whose contract expired in December 2024, has continued to collect exorbitant charges without official permission.

The GCC has made it clear that no individual or agency is currently authorized to collect parking fees in the city. Citizens are urged to refuse payment if asked for fees at any parking location. Despite this, for the past four months, Texco personnel—many of whom do not meet the organization’s recruitment criteria—have been collecting fees ranging from ₹20 to ₹90 at will.

Initially hired in July 2024 on a six-month contract to manage over 11,000 parking slots across key areas, Texco was supposed to charge ₹20 per hour for cars and ₹5 for two-wheelers, deploying 450 staff. Instead, they employed about 45 young men on daily wages and continued operations illegally even after their contract ended.

Investigations revealed some vendors, particularly in T Nagar, were colluding with local businesses to ‘reserve’ public parking spots for private use by falsely claiming to have paid lump sums to GCC. Though digital payment systems linked to the GCC’s bank account were issued, cash transactions were rampant, and much of the collected revenue never reached the Corporation’s coffers.

Activists and citizens have flagged this growing scam. Civic volunteer Swadish Bharathi highlighted misuse of QR payment systems and unauthorized hiring practices. Revenue figures show Texco reported ₹1.75 crore over six months—far below GCC’s expected daily earnings of ₹11 lakh—raising serious concerns about transparency and enforcement.

Acknowledging the issue, GCC Commissioner J. Kumaragurubaran confirmed that the Corporation plans to terminate the current system and appoint new regional contractors to bring order and accountability to Chennai’s parking management.

(With inputs from TOI)

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Gems Of Judiciary: Chengalpattu Court Acquits Hasini’s Killer Dashvanth In Mother’s Murder Case Citing Insufficient Evidence

By
The Commune
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The Chengalpattu Court today acquitted Dashvanth, a convict currently serving a death sentence and 46 years imprisonment for the 2017 rape and murder of a six-year-old girl, in a separate case involving the killing of his mother, Sarala Shekar.

The court cited insufficient evidence and unreliable witness testimony as grounds for the acquittal in the matricide case. Despite this verdict, Dashvanth remains incarcerated at Puzhal prison for the minor’s murder. This verdict came despite Dashvanth allegedly admitting to the murder of his mother in 2017.

Dashvanth, a resident of Kundrathur in Kancheepuram district, was convicted in 2018 by the Chengalpattu Mahila Court for the brutal rape and murder of a six-year-old girl, whose petrol-doused body was found dumped on a national highway. While the trial court had awarded him the death penalty plus 46 years’ imprisonment, the Supreme Court stayed the execution last year pending further appeals.

The current acquittal relates to a separate case involving the alleged murder of his mother. Legal observers note the unusual circumstance of a death row convict being tried for another murder while his capital punishment remains stayed.

Court records indicate the prosecution failed to establish Dashvanth’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt in his mother’s killing. The judge noted evidentiary gaps and credibility issues with key witnesses in delivering today’s verdict.

Authorities confirm Dashvanth has been returned to Puzhal prison to continue serving his existing sentence for the 2017 child murder case. Legal proceedings regarding his Supreme Court appeal against the death penalty remain ongoing.

(With inputs from DT Next)

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MHA Refuses To Renew FCRA License Of Andhra NGO Rural Development Trust In Andhra Pradesh, Amid Religious Conversion, Fund Misuse Allegations

By
The Commune
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In a significant development, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has refused to renew the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration of the Rural Development Trust (RDT), a prominent NGO based in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.

The move follows a detailed complaint filed by the Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF), a legal activism group, in March 2024, alleging serious violations of FCRA norms, misuse of government funds, and involvement in religious conversion activities.

The Rural Development Trust, established in 1978 by Spanish Jesuit missionary Vicente Ferrer, is currently led by his son Moncho Ferrer, who is also a foreign national. The trust had been operating under FCRA Registration No: 010120001. It is also linked to the Vicente Ferrer Foundation Inc., a U.S.-registered public charity chaired by Moncho Ferrer, which is one of RDT’s major donors.

Recent amendments to FCRA prohibit a key functionary of an Indian recipient organization from holding any official position in the donor entity. The complaint raised concerns over this dual role, citing non-compliance.

Among the most serious allegations is the misuse of foreign donations and state-provided financial assistance for religious conversion. The complaint claims that free housing colonies built under welfare schemes were used to facilitate Christian missionary activities, including the construction of churches.

Between 2014–15 and 2017–18 alone, the Andhra Pradesh government had allocated over ₹205 crore to RDT through its Housing Corporation Ltd and Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Department for various projects.

The complaint also pointed to potential violations of data privacy laws. Reports submitted by the Vicente Ferrer Foundation (VFF) to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) indicate that personal details—including minors’ educational performance and health data—were shared with foreign donors under the Child Sponsorship Program. Sponsors reportedly received biannual updates from children about their personal lives, raising concerns about the exposure of sensitive information to foreign entities.

Adding to the controversy, the MHA’s investigation reportedly uncovered misappropriation of at least ₹26 crore. This amount was collected as patient fees at the NGO’s hospitals in Kalyanadurgam and Bathalapally, both established using foreign funds. However, the money was not routed through the FCRA-designated bank accounts, a clear violation of the Act.

In light of these findings, the MHA has refused to renew RDT’s FCRA license. The decision is seen as part of a broader crackdown on NGOs accused of flouting FCRA rules and misusing foreign contributions.

The LRPF welcomed the government’s action and urged further investigation into the trust’s financial dealings and activities, citing national and social security concerns.

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How Leftist Rag The Quint Amplified A Fake ‘Muslim Lynching’ To Distract From Pahalgam Hindu Massacre

By
The Commune
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In the aftermath of the horrific Pahalgam terror attack where 26 Hindus were brutally murdered by Islamic terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, a disturbing pattern emerged across Indian media – the deliberate amplification of unverified stories portraying Muslims as victims of Hindu violence. The most egregious example came from The Quint, which published a completely fabricated story about a Muslim employee allegedly killed by Hindu colleagues in Bengaluru for refusing to chant Gayatri Mantra.

A LinkedIn post by one Ishan Saxena, a former employee of CashKaro, claimed that his Muslim friend had been assaulted and killed in Bengaluru by Hindu colleagues for refusing to comment on the Pahalgam incident and for allegedly not chanting the Gayatri Mantra.

The Viral Lie

In his dramatic account posted on 25 April 2025, Saxena described an unnamed Muslim friend supposedly employed at a prominent automobile company in Bengaluru. According to the post, this friend had been brutally assaulted by Hindu colleagues in the office parking lot after refusing to discuss the Pahalgam attack during lunch and declining to chant the Gayatri Mantra. 

Image Source: OpIndia

This post quickly amassed over 400 likes and was picked up without verification by The Quint, a media outlet that claimed to focus on exposing communal hate crimes.

Ishan Saxena’s fabricated claims were reposted word-for-word by an Islamic Instagram page called ‘The Ummah Insights,’ accompanied by emotionally charged graphics—and by the time of writing, the post had already amassed 1,428 likes.

Image Source: OpIndia

The Quint’s subheading sensationally read, “An auto company employee allegedly beaten up brutally.“ Journalist Aliza Noor, who authored the story, failed to verify even the most basic facts—no names were disclosed, no FIR or hospital details were cited, and most importantly, no credible police confirmation was provided.

Within a day, Saxena returned to LinkedIn to update that his ‘friend’ had succumbed to his injuries. That was enough to incite outrage, garner sympathy, and feed into a rapidly forming narrative of widespread ‘anti-Muslim’ retaliation.

Image Source: OpIndia

No Trace Of Victim, No Evidence Of Crime

Despite the sensationalism, not a single local or national media outlet in Karnataka reported the incident. No Kannada newspaper, television channel, or even a digital portal mentioned such an assault in Bengaluru. This glaring omission raised red flags.

OpIndia’s Assistant Editor Dibakar Dutta and several other internet users reached out to Bengaluru police officials, tagging senior officers across zones, asking for clarity. There was no confirmation—only silence. Hours later, Ishan Saxena deleted his LinkedIn post and deactivated his account.

Soon, it was revealed that Saxena had been terminated from CashKaro nearly two months before the incident. The company issued a public statement distancing itself from his claims: “We are aware of certain posts circulating online regarding statements made by Mr. Ishan Saxena (ex-CashKaro employee). We would like to clarify that Ishan Saxena was relieved of his duties at CashKaro on 27th February 2025, and the views expressed in their personal posts do not reflect the values, beliefs, or position of our company in any way. CashKaro remains committed to promoting a respectful, inclusive, and responsible environment—both within our organization and in the communities we serve.”

Meanwhile, The Quint quietly deleted the article without offering an apology, correction, or editorial note—a hallmark of accountability in journalism that it clearly bypassed. Journalist Aliza Noor also deleted her X and Instagram accounts shortly after being exposed for publishing the fake story.

When Asked, Saxena Admits: “I Copied It From Someone Else”

After sustained public pressure, Saxena contacted OpIndia and admitted the entire post was copied from another LinkedIn user—whose identity he claimed not to recall. On being asked about his comment that the ‘friend had died’, he said he saw another user write it and simply repeated the claim.

He also confirmed that Bengaluru police had interrogated him and instructed him to delete the false post and avoid sharing unverified, communally sensitive information in the future.

In a written statement shared with OpIndia, Saxena said, “I am Ishan and I recently made a LinkedIn post regarding a muslim man being attacked by his colleagues. This post was actually a copy of another LinkedIn post mentioning the incident and I had shared it in the haste of feeling bad about what all is happening in our country. I should have fact checked the post which I didn’t and I am hence issuing this apology statement for making the post regarding an incident which I thought to be true but did not fact check.”

At the time of writing, OpIndia report stated that it found no cached or archived post apart from Saxena’s that mentioned this alleged death. The story appears to have been fabricated entirely by Saxena or someone else, amplified uncritically by both social media influencers and legacy media like The Quint.

A Pattern Of Fake Narratives To Obscure Hindu Suffering

The timing of this fabrication wasn’t accidental. It came just days after one of the worst terror attacks in recent memory, where Hindus were religiously profiled, forced to reveal their identities, chant Islamic verses like the Kalma, and even strip to prove they weren’t circumcised—all before being executed. Yet instead of focusing on this heinous attack, social media was flooded with misleading content presenting Muslims as the primary victims.

This playbook has been seen before. From the widely debunked “semen-filled balloons during Holi” hoax to fabricated stories of temple vigilantes, a pattern has emerged where Hindu communities and festivals are targeted with false accusations, often spread by media houses that later refuse to issue apologies when proven wrong.

The Real Victims Ignored, Fake Ones Amplified

While the so-called ‘Bengaluru lynching’ never happened, another real incident did occur in Kolkata around the same time. A pregnant Muslim woman named S* alleged that she was subjected to vile communal remarks by her gynecologist, Dr. Champakali Sarkar, who reportedly told her, “People from your religion are killing people from my religion, you people are murderers.” “Your husband should be killed by Hindus so you can feel the pain.”

The Quint reported this case in the same article, offering it as evidence of communal tensions sparked by the Pahalgam incident. However, Dr. Sarkar refuted the allegations, stating that she had never discriminated against patients and was being bullied by the family. She added that she had apologized nonetheless and that her conversation had been misunderstood.

A police complaint was filed in this case and may take its due course, unlike the Bengaluru hoax which fell apart within 24 hours.

Dangerous Distractions From Real Terror

This is not just about fake news—it’s about manipulating public sentiment during a time of national trauma. At a moment when the country should have stood united in mourning the victims of the Pahalgam massacre and demanding justice, a fabricated story diverted attention and inflamed communal sentiments.

That The Quint and its journalist failed to conduct even elementary checks before running the story is a damning indictment of their editorial standards. Worse, their silence after being exposed shows a lack of integrity.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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