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Complaint Filed With NHRC To Take Action Against Loyola College For Denying Admissions To Non-Christians In M.A. Philosophy Course

By
The Commune
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NGO watchdog, Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF), has appealed to the National Human Rights Commission to take action against Loyola College in Chennai for allegedly denying non-Christian students equal access to education. The forum claims that the college is violating fundamental rights by not offering the M.A. Philosophy course (affiliated with the University of Madras) to non-Christians, instead reserving it exclusively for Christian students, displaying favoritism and discrimination.

In a social media post, the Legal Rights Protection Forum stated, “Urged @India_NHRC to take strict action against Loyola College, Chennai for religious discrimination—offering M.A. Philosophy (in affiliation with UoM) exclusively to Christian students, denying non-Christians equal educational opportunities & violating their fundamental rights.”

This request comes amid an ongoing scandal involving Loyola College, which the LRPF has been addressing. Despite the college’s affiliation with the University of Madras, no action has been taken by the university regarding these allegations. Previously, the LRPF raised a complaint against the Registrar of the University of Madras, Prof. S. Elumalai, accusing him of endorsing large-scale academic fraud linked to Loyola College. The complaint, submitted to the Governor of Tamil Nadu, calls for disciplinary action against the registrar and the cancellation of M.A. Philosophy degree certificates issued fraudulently under the university’s name.

The complaint alleges that Loyola College has been running its M.A. Philosophy program at an unapproved off-campus location, Satya Nilayam, a Jesuit missionary training center. Despite this, students at Satya Nilayam allegedly received degrees bearing the University of Madras’s official logo, in violation of university rules.

Key Allegations In The Complaint

  1. Unauthorized Off-Campus Operations: The M.A. Philosophy program, officially affiliated with Loyola College, is allegedly being conducted at Satya Nilayam, which is not an approved campus under the University of Madras.

  2. Manipulation of Online Records: Following the previous complaint filed on February 27, 2025, Satya Nilayam allegedly removed all references to Loyola College from its official website—an attempt to erase evidence of wrongdoing. However, digital archives like the Wayback Machine retain historical records, confirming the prior affiliation.

  3. Fraudulent Issuance of Degrees: The complaint includes a copy of an M.A. Philosophy degree certificate issued in 2005 under the name of the University of Madras to a student enrolled at Satya Nilayam instead of Loyola College.

  4. Failure of University Oversight: The University of Madras allegedly failed to conduct mandatory inspections of Loyola College’s campus, leading to unchecked violations. Additionally, an RTI response from 2023 shockingly revealed that the university had “lost” the original affiliation order for Loyola College.

  5. Potential National Security Violations: The forum claims that Loyola College has been inviting foreign nationals under the pretense of academic studies but instead providing missionary training at Satya Nilayam—a possible breach of Indian visa regulations and a national security concern.

The Legal Rights Protection Forum has urged the Tamil Nadu Governor to:

  • Initiate disciplinary proceedings against the Registrar of the University of Madras for failing to prevent or investigate the alleged fraud.

  • Cancel all M.A. Philosophy degrees issued by Loyola College since 1998 under the University of Madras’ name.

  • Direct law enforcement agencies to investigate and register an FIR against Loyola College management for academic fraud and misuse of university credentials.

Registrar of Madras University

Despite the severity of the allegations, neither Loyola College nor the University of Madras has issued an official statement in response to the complaint. Academic circles and student communities are now demanding greater transparency and accountability in the university’s affiliation policies.

As the controversy unfolds, the Tamil Nadu government and higher education authorities are expected to take cognizance of the issue, with many calling for an independent inquiry into the matter.

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Reciprocal Tariffs: Global Economists Warn Of Impending US Recession

By
The Commune
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trump tariffs king india us russian oil

Global brokerages and economists have warned an impending US recession after factoring in the impact of reciprocal tariffs announced by the Donald Trump administration.

According to JPMorgan Chase & Co, “We now expect real GDP to contract under the weight of the tariffs, and for the full year (4Q/4Q) we now look for real GDP growth of -0.3 per cent, down from 1.3 per cent previously,” The bank’s chief US economist Michael Feroli said in a note to clients that the forecast contraction in economic activity is expected to depress hiring and over time to lift the unemployment rate to 5.3 per cent.

Feroli expects the US Federal Reserve to begin cutting its benchmark interest rate in June and proceed with rate cuts at each subsequent meeting through January next year. “If realised, our stagflationary forecast would present a dilemma to Fed policymakers,” Feroli wrote.

Citi economists have cut their forecast for growth this year to just 0.1 per cent while UBS economists reduced their forecast to a mere 0.4 per cent. UBS Chief US Economist, Jonathan Pingle, said in a note that “We expect US imports from the rest of the world fall more than 20 per cent over our forecast horizon, mostly in the next several quarters, bringing imports as a share of GDP back to pre-1986 levels.”

“The forcefulness of the trade policy action implies substantial macroeconomic adjustment for a $30 trillion economy,” he projected. On Friday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said “it feels like we don’t need to be in a hurry” to make any adjustments to rates. His comments followed the release of the latest monthly employment report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which showed robust hiring in March alongside a slight uptick in the unemployment rate, to 4.2 per cent. Meanwhile, Trump’s reciprocal tariffs triggered a massive sell-off across Wall Street, with the Dow Jones plunging over 2,000 points, the S&P 500 witnessing its worst two-day sell-off since March 2020 and the Nasdaq entering the bear market territory.

—IANS

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‘No Significant Difference Between Us’ – Senior BJP Leader H Raja Calls NTK Seeman’s Tamil Nationalism ‘Another Form Of Hindutva’

By
The Commune
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Senior BJP leader and Tamil Nadu BJP Co-ordination Committee Convener, H Raja, has stated that there is no ideological conflict between Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) leader Seeman’s Tamil Nationalism, which focuses on preserving culture and tradition, and Hindutva, suggesting that Tamil Nationalism is another form of Hindutva.

In an interview with Tamil media outlet Vikatan, H. Raja commented, “I also perceive Seeman’s Tamil nationalist politics, which emphasizes the country’s tradition and culture, as Hindutva. As such, I don’t believe there are significant differences between us. So, they should decide what stance their party should adopt in the assembly elections.”

Recently, Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai and Seeman recently had an unexpected encounter at a wedding in Chennai, which sparked significant political discussion. As Seeman sat in his car, Annamalai approached him, shook his hand, and offered words of encouragement, saying, “Keep fighting, stay strong. Don’t give up, brother.”

The interaction, caught on video, has since gone viral on social media, fueling speculation about its political implications.

In another surprising exchange, Annamalai and Seeman shared a warm moment at a book launch event in Coimbatore in July 2024. The event, held at a private hotel near Neelambur, saw several political figures in attendance, including PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss and TMC president G.K. Vasan. During the event, Annamalai embraced Seeman and spoke to him affectionately before departing, a gesture that intrigued attendees given their contrasting political views.

Seeman is currently facing multiple challenges as several party executives have recently resigned. Additionally, he has been embroiled in controversy following a sexual harassment complaint filed by an actress. However, the Supreme Court has granted an interim stay on the investigation, offering a temporary reprieve.

Meanwhile, Seeman’s remarks on social reformer EV Ramasamy Naicker have drawn criticism, with Periyarist organizations staging protests against him. Amid these challenges, political parties in Tamil Nadu have intensified their criticism of NTK and its leader.

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BJP Leader Annamalai May Likely Get A ‘Central’ Role?

By
The Commune
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Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President K. Annamalai is at the center of intense speculation as sources indicate he may soon be elevated to a significant central role within the party, with a potential Rajya Sabha berth on the horizon. This exclusive breaking development, suggests that the BJP’s national leadership is poised to reward Annamalai’s dynamic leadership in Tamil Nadu with a prominent position in New Delhi, even as the party navigates alliance talks and prepares for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Annamalai, a former IPS officer turned firebrand politician, has been instrumental in amplifying the BJP’s presence in Tamil Nadu, a state long dominated by Dravidian parties. His aggressive outreach and organizational efforts have earned him both praise and scrutiny, making him a polarizing yet influential figure. Now, according to exclusive sources, the central leadership is seriously considering bringing him into the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament, as part of a broader strategy to leverage his skills on a national stage.

The speculation intensified after Annamalai distanced himself from the race for the Tamil Nadu BJP presidency. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore on Friday, he said, “I am not in the race for the post of the new state president. I am not ready for any quarrel, and I am not in the race.” This statement, paired with his recent submission of a detailed micro-analysis of Tamil Nadu’s political dynamics to the party high command, has fueled theories that his next move could be to Delhi rather than a retreat from active politics.

“Annamalai is likely to be brought into the Rajya Sabha soon,” a senior party source revealed, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The leadership sees him as a valuable asset who can contribute beyond Tamil Nadu, possibly in a central organizational role or as a voice in Parliament.” This move, if confirmed, would mark a significant shift for Annamalai, aligning with the BJP’s efforts to groom younger leaders for national prominence.

The timing of this development is notable, as it coincides with renewed talks of an alliance between the BJP and its former partner, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). Annamalai’s earlier resistance to rekindling ties with the AIADMK had contributed to the alliance’s collapse in September 2023. However, his softened stance in recent weeks—alongside AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah—hints at a possible reconciliation, potentially freeing Annamalai for a central role to smoothen coordination within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Party insiders emphasize that this is not a sidelining but a strategic elevation. “Delhi sees a bright future for him,” a senior BJP leader noted, highlighting Annamalai’s loyalty and willingness to serve in any capacity. The Rajya Sabha speculation adds weight to this narrative, positioning him as a potential bridge between the party’s southern ambitions and its national agenda.

The BJP high command is expected to finalize its Tamil Nadu leadership plans between April 8 and 10, with other contenders like Nainar Nagendran and Union Minister L. Murugan in the mix for the state presidency. Meanwhile, Annamalai’s possible ascent to the Rajya Sabha and a ‘Central’ role is not being ruled out by political observers and sources. Political analysts suggest that his parliamentary entry could amplify the BJP’s southern voice, particularly on issues like federalism and development.

For now, Annamalai remains silent on the speculation, deferring to the national leadership’s decision.

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Cash, Incriminating Docs Seized From Producer Of Propaganda Film ‘Empuraan’, ₹1000 Crores Foreign Exchange Violation Said To Be Behind Probe

By
The Commune
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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into businessman and film producer Gokulam Gopalan, questioning him for a second consecutive day on Saturday in connection with alleged violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and money laundering involving over ₹1000 crores.

The raids, which began on April 4, targeted multiple premises associated with Gopalan’s business empire, including the Kodambakkam headquarters of Gokulam Chit Funds and Finance in Chennai, his residence in Neelankarai, and properties in Coimbatore and Kozhikode, Kerala. Gopalan, who was in Kozhikode at the time, was summoned to Chennai and interrogated until the early hours of Saturday. Sources confirmed that questioning would continue later in the day.

The ED concluded its search operations at the Kodambakkam office early Saturday morning, seizing approximately ₹1.5 crore in cash along with several incriminating financial documents, according to reports. Preliminary findings suggest that Gokulam Chits and Finance may have illegally received foreign remittances, including funds from Non-Resident Indians, in violation of FEMA provisions. Broader financial dealings of the Gokulam Group are also under scrutiny, with the ED’s Kochi unit—supported by its Chennai counterpart—leading the investigation.

The probe, which stems from a case registered in 2022, comes at a time when Gopalan’s latest production, L2: Empuraan, finds itself at the center of a political and cultural storm. The film, directed by communist propagandist Prithviraj Sukumaran and starring Mohanlal, has been accused of portraying national investigative agencies like the NIA, IB, and ED in a negative light, and misrepresenting sensitive events such as the Gujarat riots.

The RSS-affiliated weekly Organiser published a harsh critique of the film, triggering widespread backlash from Hindu groups and BJP leaders. In response to the growing outrage, the film’s producers approached the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to voluntarily re-edit the film. Mohanlal also issued a public apology, stating, “We sincerely regret the distress caused and have decided to remove the objectionable content.”

Despite the edits, the film continues to face rejection from sections of the Hindu community. BJP Kerala President Rajeev Chandrasekhar, along with RSS leaders J. Nandakumar and A. Jayakumar, publicly criticized the film, with several pro-RSS digital platforms amplifying the call for a boycott.

CPI(M) leader and LDF convenor T.P. Ramakrishnan has claimed that the ED’s actions are politically motivated, linking the raids to the film’s controversial content. Speaking in Madurai, he described the enforcement action as an example of “political vendetta.”

As the ED’s investigation widens and political tensions mount, Empuraan remains a lightning rod in the ongoing debate over the interplay between cinema, ideology, and state power in India.

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NTK Chief Seeman Demands Compensation For Watermelon Farmers Hit By False Food Safety Rumors

By
The Commune
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Seeman NTK annual income villupuram protest

Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) Chief Coordinator Senthamizhan Seeman has strongly condemned the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department over what he termed as “false and irresponsible statements” that have severely impacted the livelihoods of watermelon farmers across the state.

In a strongly worded statement, Seeman accused Food Safety officials of spreading unverified claims that synthetic chemicals were being mixed into watermelons — allegedly based on complaints from a few foreign tourists. He said this led to widespread panic among the public, resulting in a drastic decline in watermelon sales during the critical summer season.

“It is heartbreaking that watermelon farmers have been severely affected by the decline in sales due to the spread of false information about watermelons by officials of the Food Safety Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu in the name of research,” Seeman wrote.

Poor and small-scale farmers across Tamil Nadu, who rely on seasonal sales of watermelons, ilaneer (tender coconut), padaneer (palm nectar), nungu (ice apple), cucumber, and other natural summer fruits, are reportedly facing mounting losses. With their fresh produce left unsold on roadsides, many farmers are now calling for state intervention.

Seeman criticized the contrast between how local, natural produce is treated versus the market protection offered to expensive, artificially sweetened beverages produced by multinational corporations.

“In our country, the artificial soft drinks produced by multinational corporations, which are harmful to the body and expensive, are kept safe in a refrigerated glass room. However, the tender coconut water, ice apple, watermelons, cucumbers, etc., which our farmers toil in the sun and rain to produce, are still lying on the roadside,” he wrote.

Seeman also raised suspicions of a larger corporate influence behind the officials’ claims, alleging that the slander could be part of a calculated campaign to discredit natural Indian alternatives to commercial soft drinks.

“It is very reasonable for Tamil Nadu farmers to suspect that there is a deliberate conspiracy by multinational soft drink companies behind such slanderous propaganda by government officials,” he said.

The NTK leader emphasized the growing public shift toward natural and healthy alternatives and said that it was the moral responsibility of any progressive government to promote and protect traditional Indian summer produce.

“It is the primary duty of a good government to promote and advertise the sale of natural drinks and fruits that do not cause any harm to the body and are full of healthy nutrients. However, on the contrary, it is a completely unethical act for government officials to spread rumors… causing huge losses to the farmers who grew watermelons,” he said.

Seeman concluded by urging Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and the Tamil Nadu government to immediately announce appropriate compensation for farmers affected by the sales crash.

“How is it fair that the government has punished all watermelon farmers in Tamil Nadu instead of identifying and punishing the wrongdoers?” he asked. “I urge that appropriate compensation be provided to the farmers who have suffered huge losses due to the massive decline in watermelon sales due to the false statements made by the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Authorities.”

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PM Modi Accorded Ceremonial Welcome In Sri Lanka

By
The Commune
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome at the Independence Square in Colombo on Saturday, as Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake hosted him during his State Visit to the island nation.

This marks PM Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka since 2014 and his first since President Dissanayake assumed office. The ceremony was attended by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and key members of Dissanayake’s Cabinet. PM Modi arrived in Colombo late on Friday evening from Bangkok following his participation in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. The invitation for the visit was extended by the Sri Lankan President during his maiden official trip to India in December last year.

Despite heavy rains, hundreds of Sri Lankans and members of the Indian diaspora lined the streets and gathered outside Bandaranaike International Airport and the hotel to greet the Indian leader with enthusiasm. Welcoming him at the airport were top ministers from the Sri Lankan government, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, Labour Minister Anil Jayantha, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj, and Science and Technology Minister Chrishantha Abeysena.

Shortly after landing, PM Modi took to X and wrote, “Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka.” Sri Lanka considers Dissanayake’s State Visit to India last December a “watershed moment” in its bilateral ties with New Delhi. PM Modi now becomes the first foreign leader to be hosted by the new President, further cementing the deep diplomatic bond shared by the two countries. Ahead of the visit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri underscored the importance of the India-Sri Lanka partnership.

“The India-Sri Lanka relationship is deeply rooted in civilisational links, shared history, religion, culture, and strong people-to-people ties. In the modern era, it has evolved into a close economic, cultural, and technical partnership. Sri Lanka is an integral part of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, and this relationship, built on mutual trust and goodwill, has stood the test of time,” he said.

Recalling India’s swift assistance during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis in 2022, Misri said, “India was glad to be able to play a key role in the economic stabilisation and recovery of the country, thereby demonstrating its commitment as a dependable neighbour and as a first responder to any crisis in the region.” Prime Minister Modi will hold wide-ranging talks with President Dissanayake, reviewing progress on joint initiatives outlined in the “Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” adopted during the President’s December visit to India.

Several bilateral agreements across sectors, such as energy connectivity, digitisation, defence, health, and multisectoral grant assistance, are expected to be signed in the presence of both leaders. In addition to his official meetings, Prime Minister Modi will engage with senior political leaders and other dignitaries of Sri Lanka. On Sunday, he will accompany President Dissanayake to Anuradhapura to inaugurate development projects supported by Indian financial assistance.

The two leaders will also visit the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple complex, an iconic site symbolising the civilisational ties between the two countries. PM Modi had previously paid homage at the temple during his 2015 visit and later revisited Sri Lanka in 2019. The ongoing visit will also cover discussions on long-pending issues related to Indian fishermen. Both leaders are expected to address matters concerning the early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen and their fishing boats.

The Indian government has consistently maintained that the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen are of the highest priority and has pursued the matter with Sri Lankan authorities through diplomatic channels and bilateral mechanisms. “The Prime Minister has raised this matter in all recent interactions, including the December 16, 2024, meeting with the Sri Lankan President,” Foreign Secretary Misri noted. He also highlighted the historical background of the issue, tracing it to maritime boundary arrangements agreed upon in the 1970s between both nations.

“We have repeatedly requested the Sri Lankan Government to treat the fishermen issue as a humanitarian and livelihood concern without using force under any circumstances,” Misri added. The Prime Minister’s current visit is seen as a continuation of India’s sustained outreach to its neighbours under the Neighbourhood First policy, aimed at fostering greater cooperation, connectivity, and mutual respect across South Asia. He is scheduled to return to New Delhi on April 6.

–IANS

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‘Jana Nayagan’ Puts Himself In ‘Do Not Disturb’ Mode: Part-Time Politician Vijay Skips TVK Protest To Take Rest After Film Shooting

By
The Commune
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Actor-turned-politician Vijay, living up to his moniker ‘Work from Home Politician,‘ has once again demonstrated his commitment by not participating in the protest organized by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) cadres. Instead, he remained at home after issuing a statement on 4 April 2025, where he expressed that he and his party would support the Muslim minority community in the state against the repeal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which had recently been passed by parliament.

There have been widespread allegations that Vijay’s absence from the protest was due to being tired and resting at home after his movie schedule for Jana Nayagan, which translates to “People’s Hero.” Netizens quickly pointed out the contradiction, questioning how he aspires to be a “people’s hero” and even a potential chief minister, yet chooses not to engage in issues affecting the people, instead opting to release statements on social media from the comfort of his home.

Vijay sleeping through his own party’s protest has triggered a meme fest. Many pointed out the iconic dialogue of Vadivelu from Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi in which Pulikesi (Vadivelu) says “Thoongi Vittenaam, Adhai Dhukkamaaga Pesugiraargal” which translates to “I just slept, and they’re talking as if it’s a big crime”.

On 4 April 2025, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) organized a state-wide protest against the Centre’s Waqf Bill, but party chief Vijay was notably absent. The party argued that the bill threatens the constitutional rights and religious freedoms of the Muslim community.

Protests took place across various districts, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Coimbatore, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchy, Kanniyakumari, and Thanjavur.

Hundreds of TVK supporters took to the streets to oppose the Bill and show solidarity with Muslims, who are concerned that the legislation could undermine their property and religious rights. At Panaiyur, near the party’s headquarters, over 200 party members gathered under the leadership of TVK general secretary N Anand, despite Vijay’s absence.

Speaking to reporters, Anand said, “The central government must revoke the Waqf Amendment Bill. Our leader, Vijay, has assured the Muslim community that we fully support them. This Bill has caused anxiety among Muslims, and we cannot overlook their fears.”

When asked to specify which provisions of the Bill were problematic, Anand simply reaffirmed that the community’s concerns were sufficient.

“If someone tried to seize your land, wouldn’t you resist it? That’s exactly what this Bill means for the Muslim community,” he remarked, before abruptly ending the interview. Elsewhere, TVK members faced pushback from law enforcement at several protest sites.

In Aminjikarai, police threatened legal action against party workers for protesting without prior approval, prompting the quick dispersal of protesters into nearby streets—an incident that was soon ridiculed on social media.

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Munambam Erupts In Joy As Waqf Bill Passes; 50 Christians Join BJP In Gratitude

By
The Commune
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In a dramatic political development with deep grassroots resonance, Munambam village in Kerala’s Ernakulam district turned celebratory this week as Parliament passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. At the heart of the jubilation lies a bitter land dispute, with the State Waqf Board staking claim to 400 acres of coastal land inhabited by over 600 families — predominantly Christians — who have lived there for generations.

174 Days Of Protest Ends In Celebration

For the past 174 days, these families held a continuous protest under the banner of Munambam Bhoo Samrakshana Samithi, demanding protection of their land rights. On Wednesday night, as the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill — followed by the Rajya Sabha — the village erupted in celebration. Residents burst crackers, raised slogans like “Narendra Modi Zindabad,” and announced plans to celebrate.

50 Local Christians Join BJP

Joseph Benny, convener of the protest action committee, confirmed that 50 residents — all Christians and previously Congress and CPI(M) voters — joined the BJP on Thursday. Their switch signals a possible shift in political sentiment in the region, traditionally seen as a stronghold of secular parties.

BJP Leaders Join Residents In Solidarity

On Thursday, BJP Kerala state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar visited Munambam and addressed the local protesters.

“This is an important day in the state’s political history,” he said. “This agitation has given strength to the Prime Minister and Parliament to pass the amendment Bill. We will be with you until you get back revenue rights over the land. This Bill has the power to give back the revenue rights of your land.”

He further added, “The people of Munambam have been betrayed by MPs and MLAs who they had elected. But their voice reached Parliament and it is a shining moment for Indian democracy.”

“The fight against Waqf claim over Munambam land has brought the village in national focus,” Chandrasekhar told the media. He alleged that MPs who opposed the bill were supporting appeasement politics and misleading the public.

He clarified that the bill “was not against any religion” but was intended “to ensure transparency in the functioning of the Waqf Board.”

“The Waqf (Amendment) Bill passed by Parliament is a milestone in Indian history,” he said. “The non-violent protest of the residents of Munambam village reached New Delhi and facilitated the passage of a historic bill. I am sure the bill will help restore the land rights of the residents of Munambam.”

The Syro-Malabar Church welcomed the bill, describing it as a source of relief for the families of Munambam. Many residents had also undertaken a relay hunger strike for 173 days, making the moment deeply emotional.

Chandrasekhar emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has followed the policy of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas since 2014, and that the Union government has never discriminated based on caste or religion.

While Thursday was a day of joy, residents have made it clear that the protest will continue until the new law is enacted and their revenue rights are officially restored. “We are very happy and hopeful that we will finally get back our revenue rights once the bill is enacted,” said Joseph Benny.

For the villagers of Munambam, the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill marks not just a legal victory, but a powerful moment of recognition and hope.

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Food Safety Officer Who Sealed Triplicane Bilal Hotel Suspends Inspection At Anna Salai Branch, Citing ‘Health Reasons’ Amid Alleged ‘Phone Call’

By
The Commune
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Famous food safety officer P. Satheesh Kumar, who arrived at Hotel Bilal on Mount Road, Anna Salai, to inspect the premises following a severe case of food poisoning involving two women college students, reportedly suspended his inspection due to ‘health issues’. However, widespread reports suggest that he halted the sudden inspection after receiving a phone call.

The inspection was initiated in response to a complaint filed at the Ice House police station. Meanwhile, another branch of Hotel Bilal in Triplicane was sealed on 2 April after six individuals were hospitalized due to food poisoning. Initially, officials stated that no complaints had been filed against the Mount Road branch. However, it later emerged that authorities had taken action against the restaurant after two college students fell ill following a family dinner there on 30 March. The students, suffering from severe vomiting and stomach pain, were admitted to Government Royapettah Hospital on 1 April, where they remain under treatment. In this regard, an inspection was scheduled for 4 April, and authorities arrived at the hotel. However, the inspection was abruptly halted, with health concerns cited as the reason for the inspecting officer’s withdrawal.

Food Safety Violations Lead To Closure Of Triplicane Branch

On 2 April 2025, a team led by P. Satheesh Kumar, alongside Chennai Corporation health officials, conducted an inspection of Hotel Bilal’s Triplicane branch. The restaurant was sealed after allegations surfaced that it had served spoiled food, resulting in a severe outbreak of food poisoning. Reports indicate that at least 20 people fell ill on 30 March after consuming beef biryani and beef rolls, with symptoms including vomiting and dysentery. The affected individuals were admitted to the Communicable Diseases Hospital in Tondiarpet for treatment.

The closure followed protests from customers and formal complaints filed by two of the victims at the Triplicane police station. Among those affected were V. Vignesh, M. Jaishankar, K. Shyam, K. Vivekanandan, A. Stephen, and S. Rebecca, who dined at the restaurant on the evening of March 30. By the next morning, all six experienced severe stomach pain and vomiting. Initially treated as outpatients at a private hospital, they were later transferred to CDH as their condition worsened.

Following a complaint from Vignesh’s parents, the Triplicane police have officially registered a case against the restaurant.

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The Commune is a news and views portal focusing on social and political issues of the southern part of India with a focus on Tamil Nadu.
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