As soon as K Annamalai, the Tamil Nadu president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), returned from the United Kingdom after completing the three-month Chevening Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence at Oxford University, the political scene in the state was set ablaze. Upon his return, Annamalai wasted no time in delivering a series of sharp jabs at DMK scion and Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin.
Upon his arrival from London, while addressing the press at Chennai airport, Annamalai stated that the 2026 Assembly elections would be a “crucial and historic” event, with numerous parties vying for influence. He highlighted the participation of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK, Seeman’s NTK, the BJP, along with the two major Dravidian parties, the DMK.
Later, on 1 December 2024, in Coimbatore, at the conclusion of A3, a two-day conference organized by Voice of Covai, Annamalai pointed out that in the past three months, a successful actor had entered politics, while a “failed actor” had been appointed as Tamil Nadu’s Deputy Chief Minister. He emphasized the need for political discussions to benefit the public and promote constructive politics.
Annamalai said, “If you’ve noticed over the past three months while I was away studying, ‘a successful actor have come to politics, while a failed actor became the Deputy Chief Minister. If you see today,the question asked by our journalists friends revolves around cinema. The first question asked by our beloved journalists at Chennai and Coimbatore airports was about, How you view his politics? How you view his elevation? But you and I know, if the common man stand to gain a penny from this, the answer would be a definitely ‘no.’ Have they introduced any revolutionary politics for a common man? No. I’m not accusing anyone; I’m not accusing anybody, I’m welcoming actor Vijay’s entry into politics. He should come.”
He urged that the common man must actively question the system and advocate for a political environment based on accountability, merit, and performance, geared towards social justice. He asserted that the power to transform Tamil Nadu’s politics lies in the hands of the common man. Without this, he warned, even intellectuals in politics could end up subjugated by the current political climate.
Annamalai encouraged the attendees to strive for a country built on knowledge. “You have the power to change Tamil Nadu’s politics,” he asserted, stressing that the public should not just vote but actively question and compel political parties to work toward their progress.
He also highlighted that cities like Coimbatore have untapped potential, mentioning that the city will soon have a model railway station and that the Tamil Nadu BJP is working to introduce a metro rail system as well.
Additionally, Annamalai called on the youth to contribute to the revival of Indian culture and heritage. He noted that since 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had successfully brought back 640 artifacts from foreign countries, compared to just four that were repatriated between 1970 and 2015.
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After the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) suffered a crushing defeat in the Maharashtra elections, a fresh controversy has emerged, with Congress supporters amplifying a video claiming EVM tampering by BJP-led Mahayuti. The video features Syed Shuja, a self-proclaimed cyber expert, who alleges he can manipulate votes in 281 of 288 Maharashtra Assembly seats using “frequency isolation” and mobile applications to alter EVM signals and pre-program machines to favor specific parties.
As part of this effort, Congress-friendly activists, journalists, and YouTubers have circulated the video featuring Syed Shuja, a self-proclaimed “cyber expert,” making dubious claims about manipulating EVMs in 281 out of 288 seats. Shuja alleges he can alter election outcomes through “frequency isolation” and specialized apps, demanding ₹52-53 crore to secure victories in 63 constituencies, despite EVMs being incapable of wireless communication.
The video, watermarked with Mumbai Tak’s logo, was shared on their X account on November 15 as part of a sting operation by India Today journalists. Posing as representatives of a political leader, they contacted Shuja to uncover his alleged methods of EVM manipulation. Despite detailing his so-called techniques, Shuja failed to provide concrete evidence.
Shuja claims to have worked with the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) from 2009 to 2014 on EVM development. ECIL, alongside Bharat Electronics Limited, manufactures EVMs and VVPATs for the Election Commission of India (ECI). However, ECIL has categorically refuted his employment claims. Shuja also professes to hold a PhD in Mathematics from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University and a BTech in Computer Science from Shadan College, Hyderabad—claims that remain unverified as no records exist of his education at these institutions.
In the video, Shuja alleges he was granted asylum in the US in 2018 after surviving an attack linked to his discovery of EVM tampering. However, there is no independent verification of these claims, his asylum status, or his current employment.
This is not the first time Shuja has made such claims. In January 2019, he participated in a press conference via Skype from London, attended by senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal, where he asserted that the 2014 elections were rigged in favor of the BJP. The Election Commission dismissed these allegations as baseless, lodging an FIR against him with the Delhi Police for spreading misinformation. ECIL also debunked his assertions, reiterating that EVMs are tamper-proof and cannot be wirelessly manipulated.
Despite being unable to present any credible evidence, Shuja’s resurfacing has provided Congress supporters with what they claim is “proof” of EVM tampering. However, it is evident that his false claims are designed to sow distrust in India’s electoral system. Shuja’s association with prominent Congress leaders further fuels suspicions about the political motivations behind these allegations.
Thus, Syed Shuja’s claims appear to be an elaborate hoax, aimed at undermining public confidence in the electoral process, with Congress supporters seizing the narrative to explain their electoral defeat in Maharashtra.
Syed Shuja is no Hacker!
He is a Scamster used by Congress to save Rahul Gandhi from embarrassment by blaming EVMs.
In 2019, he did London press conference where Sibal was also present.
The Supreme Court’s recent validation of the Emergency-era insertion of the word ‘secular’ into the Constitution reignited a contentious debate: is secularism in India a shield of equality or a sword of appeasement wielded selectively against Hindus? Under the guise of secularism, Hindu temples are plundered under government control, religious autonomy is granted selectively, and minority appeasement thrives unabated.
When “fraternity” becomes fractured, “equality” becomes skewed, and “liberty” becomes a privilege of the few, it is imperative to question whether secularism has lost its way, becoming an albatross strangling the very ideals it was meant to uphold.
The Supreme Court (SC) pronounced its verdict on 25 November 2024 on a July 2020 petition challenging the insertion of the words ‘secular’ and ‘socialist’ during the Emergency period by upholding the insertions as valid.
Since ‘socialism’ is a politico-economic ideology, let us set it aside for this discussion and instead delve into the dissonance within this verdict and its implications.
It’s notable that that many of the amendments during the Emergency era, including clauses 4 & 5 of the 42nd Amendment, were repealed by the SC, the landmark one being Minerva Mills Ltd. and Ors. v. Union Of India and Ors. (case number: Writ Petition (Civil) 356 of 1977.
The verdict restored the constitutional validity of the courts/judiciary, reaffirming that Parliament does not hold absolute power, particularly in matters concerning fundamental rights.
With due respects to the Supreme Court and its eminent lordships in the highest regard, it is troubling to note that amendments made during the Emergency era concerning the judiciary are deemed highly relevant, whereas those addressing the concerns of the general public and victims of ‘secularism’ are often sidelined, citing the timing of such pleas.
From the political viewpoint, it is a not a clandestine affair that the word ‘secular’ encompasses not compassion for minorities of the country but sheer appeasement, right from the time of independence.
On 17th October 1949, Shri Brajeshwar Prasad, a senior congress leader from Bihar, during discussions in the constituent assembly on the Preamble and Constitution said:
‘this word, ‘secular’ was dear to India’s national leaders and its inclusion in the preamble would tone up the morale of minorities as well as prevent disorderly activities’
Although the word ‘secular’ was not part of the original Constitution, it is now frequently invoked to benefit minority communities, often to the detriment of the majority Hindu community and its practices.
The Hon’ble Lordships have observed that the term ‘secular’ is “considered imprecise,” noting that some scholars interpret secularism as being opposed to religion. This ambiguity becomes more evident in states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, where the Hindu community faces neglect and, at times, disdain from the state and its rulers.
Hon’ble Lordship goes on to say: “India has developed its own interpretation of secularism, wherein the State neither supports any religion nor penalises the profession and practice of any faith”. The ideals espoused in the Preamble — fraternity, equality, individual dignity and liberty among others — “reflect this secular ethos”,
Let us corroborate these golden words with reality:
Fraternity
The contempt that the current ruling party in Tamil Nadu – the DMK, and the former ruling party in Andhra Pradesh – YSRCP, display toward Hinduism and its practices needs little explanation. Whether it is Udhayanidhi Stalin, a self-proclaimed atheist/pro-Christianity, wanting to eradicate Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), or the Andhra Pradesh government’s alleged involvement in the adulteration of the Tirumala Laddoo, their actions consistently undermine social fabric of the country. This is how the state expresses its commitment to ‘fraternity.’
It is worth highlighting MK Stalin’s speech, where he disparaged Hindu marriage rituals while praising similar practices in other religions. Ironically, in a bid to secure votes, he later declared that 90% of his party’s members are Hindus.
Not to forget their skullcap fantasies during nights of crescent sky and penchant for cakes on starry December nights.
Equality
The condition of temples under Tamil Nadu’s HR&CE Department offers a striking example of the government’s skewed interpretation of ‘equality’ within the Dravidian Model, especially when compared to the autonomy enjoyed by other religious institutions. The ruling dispensation routinely exploits temple funds as if they were its own, and, on occasion, unlawfully appoints non-Hindu personnel to key temple positions, undermining both tradition and legality.
Individual Dignity
DK the parent dupery and inspiration of ruling DMK take pride in cutting the sacred threads of the Brahmins in early 1970s. So much for ‘individual dignity’, the cowardly act still continues to this day when a 24-year-old Brahmin boy from Palayamkottai, Thirunelveli faced the wrath of these rogues in September 2024 was however denied by police.
Liberty
The list of arrests by the DMK government in Tamil Nadu after their election to power in 2021 is long and still extending. Actor Kasthuri faced a brief jail term for her dinky comment in a stage protest, arrested by a battalion of police.
While Mubin, accused of Coimbatore blast is a Voldemort whose name should not be spelled out. The Dravidian Model government still calls it a cylinder blast!
People who make insignificant comments on the government policies or criticize rightfully are facing gallows, resembling medieval United Kingdom under fascist King Charles III.
The torchbearers of liberty in Tamil Nadu cannot even protect the downtrodden people like in Vengaivayal, who are still waiting justice for an insensate act against them, while the perpetrators are still at large.
We would like to humbly request the judiciary, where the so-called fraternity, equality, individual dignity and liberty are in practice, let alone other words that echoes fundamental rights.
The judiciary must carefully consider the nature of the faiths with which they expect the Hindu community to coexist harmoniously. Temples and places of worship have faced challenges from multiple fronts. On one hand, there are faiths that oppose idolatry—the very essence of Sanatana Dharma—as illustrated by this passage:
“All who fashion idols are nothing, and the things they delight in do not profit. Their witnesses neither see nor know, that they may be put to shame. Who fashions a god or casts an idol that is profitable for nothing? Behold, all his companions shall be put to shame, and the craftsmen are only human. Let them all assemble, let them stand forth. They shall be terrified; they shall be put to shame together.” (Isaiah 44:9–20)
On the other hand, we have another faith, who doesn’t need to enter Hindu administrations but can claim a 1,500-year-old temple in Trichy, Tamil Nadu as their own. In fact, they had the liberty of claiming any land they like, thanks to the Waqf Amendment Bill 1995 brought by Congress government. Their faith enclosed in a single book, God and messenger calls for violence against idol worshippers. (Surah At-Tawbah (9:5)
The word “secular” has, over time, increasingly become a redundant and burdensome concept within the Indian Constitution, with its application disproportionately falling upon the Hindu community. While the Constitution enshrines the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion under Article 25, this provision seems to shine brightly for certain religious groups, who are allowed to exercise their faith without undue hindrance. In contrast, the Hindu community often finds itself trapped in the paradox of “secularism,” where their religious practices are subject to scrutiny, regulation, and marginalization. This uneven application of secular principles has led many to question whether the secular ideal, as envisioned, is being implemented in a truly equal manner.
Barath Seshadri is a professional from Tanzania.
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The News Minute (TNM) has launched a partisan tirade, accusing the Modi government of unfairly redirecting investments to Gujarat at the expense of other states. With allegations rooted in anonymous sources and barren of credible data, TNM claims come across as yet another hit job aimed at undermining Gujarat for its legitimate economic progress. Far from an exposé, this narrative reeks of political bias and desperation, especially with Maharashtra elections around the corner.
A deeper analysis by The Commune Mag dismantles TNM conjectures, exposing their lack of substance and factual inaccuracies.
TNM Report On Gujarat Hijacking Investments
As India aims to become a global economic powerhouse, Gujarat has emerged as a leading destination for major projects, including the Micron semiconductor plant, the Tata-Airbus facility, and numerous infrastructure investments. However, this influx has sparked allegations that the Modi government is channeling investments disproportionately to Gujarat,at the expense of states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra and the one leading the pack is none other than TNM, a leftist mouthpiece.
TNM scribe Pooja Prasanna allegedly spoke to political leaders and industry insiders from these states who allege that federal incentives, fast-tracked approvals, and “helicopter diplomacy” redirect investments to Gujarat, creating an economic imbalance. Are these allegations founded, or is Gujarat’s success the result of strategic, criteria-based planning? Is this yet another TNM hitjob now that the Maharashtra elections are just around the corner?
First of all, the article that they promised would “expose” this disturbing truth is behind a paywall.Second, the video that was published alongside the article is full of gas as expected – with no credible source or numbers and data, just speculation after speculation for10 whole minutes.
After going through the video, we decided to list out their allegations and counter them factually.
Allegation 1: Shifting Projects Away From Other States
According to “opposition leaders” TNM spoke to, multiple high-value projects originally destined for Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra have been redirected to Gujarat. They claim that initiatives such as the Micron plant, initially slated for Telangana, and the Tata-Airbus project initially planned for Maharashtra, were rerouted under pressure from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
What’s The Truth?
The federal government’s investment strategy encourages competitive readiness. Projects are awarded to states based on various factors, including accessibility to resources, logistical advantages, and infrastructure suitability. Gujarat’s success in securing these projects reflects its infrastructure preparedness, rather than political favoritism. Similar high-profile investments continue to flow into other states where conditions align with the requirements of PLI (Production-Linked Incentive) and other competitive, criteria-based frameworks. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, for example, remain leaders in sectors like manufacturing, technology, and aerospace.
With regard to the shift of Tata Tata-Airbus project to Gujarat, a white paper from Maharashtra’s Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) revealed that the then MVA government had not signed any formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for land acquisition for the Tata-Airbus project.
Allegation 2: Exclusive Incentives For Gujarat’s GIFT City And Dholera
TNM argues that the Central Government granted GIFT City (India’s first International Financial Services Centre) in Gujarat exclusive benefits, such as extensive tax exemptions and currency transaction flexibilities that were initially meant for Mumbai. They also allege that Dholera, another industrial hub in Gujarat, receives state-of-the-art infrastructure support and that both hubs attract disproportionate central assistance.
What Is The Truth?
GIFT City and Dholera are part of a broader “Industrial Corridor” strategy to boost economic growth through specialized hubs across the country. Originally proposed in the early 2000s, Gujarat was chosen for the development of GIFT City over Mumbai primarily due to a combination of strategic factors, including the state’s pro-business policies, availability of land, and a focused vision for creating a world-class financial hub. In 2004, when the proposal for an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) was under consideration, Mumbai faced regulatory challenges, with the Reserve Bank of India rejecting the idea. Meanwhile, Gujarat, with its strong industrial base and support for business initiatives, positioned itself as a more attractive location for such an ambitious project.The Gujarat government offered land at a more favorable rate and introduced favorable incentives, making it easier to create a greenfield financial hub like GIFT City.
Additionally, GIFT City was conceived as an autonomous, modern urban area, designed to attract global financial firms with its ease of doing business, tax benefits, and infrastructure, a vision that resonated well with the state’s long-term economic goals. This strategic alignment with Gujarat’s broader development agenda, along with its proactive government policies, allowed GIFT City to take off, positioning it as India’s sole greenfield IFSC, whileMumbai’s natural business ecosystem remained hampered by existing regulatory and infrastructural constraints.
Allegation 3: Pressure Through “Helicopter Diplomacy”
TNM alleged that in 2022, a US semiconductor company, initially planning to invest heavily in Chennai, allegedly found itself subjected to unexpected pressure. After a meeting with the Commerce Minister in New Delhi, the company’s officials were allegedly “whisked away” by helicopter to Gujarat, allegedly to convince them to shift their investment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state. This ‘helicopter diplomacy,’ they claim is just one example of what political leaders from opposition-ruled states have called the Modi government’s heavy-handed tactics to divert investments from other regions to Gujarat. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin claimed that a ₹6,000 crore investment intended for his state was coerced into relocating to Gujarat, whileTelangana’s former IT Minister KTR and Karnataka’s IT Minister Priyank Kharge both accused the Union government of pressuring multinational companies to move their projects to Gujarat, citing influence from the Prime Minister’s Office.
What Is The Truth?
Encouraging investors to consider strategic hubs is part of the Central Government’s broader foreign investment outreach. This approach is not exclusive to Gujarat; many states actively market their investment zones and offer unique incentives to attract global companies. The government’s outreach to foreign investors emphasizes India as a whole, with regional hubs offering competitive policies to create an attractive investment environment. Investors’ final decisions largely rest on each state’s readiness and alignment with project needs.
The allegation of “whisking away in a helicopter” is just that – an allegation. The article does not provide proof of these incidents and does not provide proper sources – they state anonymous sources who are either opposition party leaders or some random anonymous person.
It is also not clear which company is exactly in question. Based on news reports, Vedanta-Foxconn signed an MoU in 2022 to invest 1.54 trillion rupees. It was reported that Gujarat pipped Maharashtra to win the deal.
However, while crying foul for TN, TNM did not look at the other deal that was inked with the state. In 2023, TN signed an agreement with Foxconn to build a mobile component manufacturing facility in Kancheepuram with a ₹1,600 crore investment, creating 6,000 jobs.
TNM also doesn’t mention 2 semiconductor companies which moved out of Telangana to TN
Corning International Corporation and Kaynes Semicon both shifted operations from Telangana to other states. Corning moved its Gorilla glass facility to Tamil Nadu in January 2024, while Kaynes relocated its semiconductor unit in March 2024 to Gujarat, despite initial agreements with Telangana. Both companies cited evolving ecosystems and growing opportunities in their new locations.
Allegation 4: Undermining Federal Principles By Favouring BJP-Ruled States
Some opposition leaders assert that the Modi government is systematically favoring BJP-ruled states. They argue that recent PLI-enabled projects, as well as critical infrastructure investments, have disproportionately benefited Gujarat and other BJP-led regions like Uttar Pradesh, sidelining opposition-ruled states.
What Is The Truth?
The allocation of federal projects and investments follows a competitive, structured model in which states are encouraged to create investment-friendly policies. For instance, Karnataka and Telangana, both opposition-led, remain hubs for technology and manufacturing, and they continue to receive high-profile investments. The Modi government has also launched region-specific initiatives like the Northeast Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) to bring investment to previously underserved states, underscoring a national approach that includes diverse regions in India’s growth story.
Allegation 5: Tilting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Towards Gujarat
Some critics argue that Gujarat receives a disproportionately large share of FDI compared to other states, citing the Modi government’s promotion of Gujarat-based hubs during international visits. They allege that Gujarat’s prominence in FDI flows undermines other states’ attractiveness to global investors.
What Is The Truth?
FDI trends reflect investor confidence, often based on factors like ease of doing business, infrastructure, and local government policies. Gujarat’s readiness to meet these expectations makes it a competitive location, yet it does not dominate FDI inflows across all sectors. States like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka remain FDI magnets for industries such as IT, automotive, and finance. The government’s national outreach emphasizes India’sadvantages as a whole, with individual states competing based on their respective strengths.
Allegation 6: Regional Economic Imbalance And Impact On Jobs
TNM video argues that steering investments disproportionately to Gujarat stunts economic growth and job creation in other regions, with Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, for instance, missing out on major projects. Critics say that this strategy could deter future investments and diminish states’ economic reputations.
What Is The Truth?
The government’s industrial development model prioritizes regional investment hubs in line with each state’s core strengths. Maharashtra continues to attract significant FDI in sectors like automotive and aerospace, while Tamil Nadu remains a powerhouse in electronics manufacturing. Each state has unique strengths, and the federal government’s role is to foster regional competitiveness rather than enforce a single economic center. The allocation of projects is a balanced endeavor that positions states to leverage their distinct advantages.
TNM very nicely turns a blind eye to the “huge” number of MoUs signed since 2021 by their favourite Chief Minister MK Stalin –be it in Dubai, Japan, Spain, and more recently in the US which promised a big number of jobs. Did they forget the Investor Summit that took place in January 2024?
History
The allegations of favouritism toward Gujarat ignore the context and history of how states attract investments based on governance, incentives, and local policies. When Tata’s Singur plant faced political resistance in West Bengal, Gujarat seized the opportunity to host the project, even though Narendra Modi was merely the state’s Chief Minister and the UPA held power at the centre.
This is a prime example of a state capitalizing on opportunities without federal intervention. Similarly, investors prioritize stable governance, ease of doing business, and competitive policies over political alignment. Gujarat, for instance, established a semiconductor policy in 2022, well before other states like Tamil Nadu introduced theirs, and firms gravitate towards states with consistent policies and incentives.
Moreover, when major companies have withdrawn from Tamil Nadu or Kerala, it has often been due to local opposition or resistance—such as Vedanta’s Sterlite plant being pushed out by protests. In contrast, Taiwan companies and other major firms are currently thriving in Tamil Nadu, demonstrating that each state’s success in attracting or losing investments hinges on local conditions rather than federal nudging.
TNM does not acknowledge that Tamil Nadu has a history of protests which led to shut down of factories like that of Sterlite in Thoothukudi, or the Kudankulam nuclear power plant, and alleged “fire incidents” at Foxlink and Pegatron plants that led to brief operational halts in the past, with Foxlink’s facility lacking functional fire safety equipment. States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka also have a history of labour unrest at the Wistron and Foxconn plants which has affected production in India in recent years. Take the recent labour unrest at the Samsung Chennai plant, spearheaded by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) which turned into a headache for the DMK government.
With such history, why would any straight-thinking corporate house want to invest in such states?
TNM video and the article focus on allegations that investments are being systematically redirected to Gujarat and overlook examples that illustrate investments continuing to flow into other states, including those not governed by the BJP. For instance, Corning International Corporation’sdecision to relocate its Gorilla Glass manufacturing facility to Tamil Nadu in early 2024 is a significant counterpoint. Initially planned for Telangana, this ₹1,000 crore investment—now in partnership with Bharat Innovative Glass Technologies Private Limited (BIGTECH)—has shifted to Pillaipakkam, Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, promising employment to 840 people.
This example undercuts TNM propaganda of a one-directional flow of investments exclusively towards Gujarat. Economic diversity across states also reveals that investment flows are far from Gujarat-centric. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka continue to lead in technology and manufacturing sectors, while Telangana’s financial district remains a top destination despite challenges. States attract investments based on competitive factors like manpower availability, infrastructure, incentives, and land policies. FDI flows to multiple regions are driven by local advantages, not central government biases, as shown by the investments signed under Tamil Nadu’s industrial policies and the investments streaming into Karnataka. This pattern suggests that investor decisions are driven by a combination of state policies, stability, and infrastructure readiness, not political favoritism.
Additionally, it is more profitable to establish an industry away from the south as per the below infographic.
Setting up an #industry is least profitable in the South states due to scarce availability of raw materials, ores, coal to generate power/buy power. For 70 years we have done blunders after blunders. #TamilNadu is the least #profitable large state in India. #Factory#industrialpic.twitter.com/ccAV0L3kUp
The debate surrounding Gujarat’s role in India’s investment landscape highlights the complexities of a competitive economic model. While Gujarat’s success may appear to favour a single state, a closer analysis shows that criteria-based incentives and nationwide competitiveness shape the Modi government’s investment strategy. States with established infrastructures, investor-friendly policies, and industrial ecosystems continue to thrive, regardless of political alignment.
This balanced approach strengthens India’s federal structure by encouraging states to create favorable conditions for investment, ensuring that India’s economic growth is inclusive and sustainable. In a global economy where investors seek predictability and efficiency, India’s regional hubs provide a varied and robust investment landscape that supports a diversified, balanced growth trajectory.
The News Minute’s piece is not an exposé—it’s a desperate and poorly executed smear campaign. By relying on unverified sources, politically motivated narratives, and hollow allegations, TNM has just shown that it is ‘The Wire’ of the South employed for partisan propaganda.
The Commune could just as easily assert that a prominent Opposition party commissioned the News Minute’s entire hit job—but unlike TNM, we value evidence over conjecture. Wild accusations and whispered narratives from “friendly politicians” or shadowy “anonymous sources” don’t constitute proof. If TNM wants to be taken seriously (not many do), it must rise above the gutter of partisan spin and present verifiable facts. Until then, TNM reports remain nothing more than a paid narrative masquerading as journalism.
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In a dramatic and distressing turn of events, four individuals, including two women, attempted self-immolation outside the Tirunelveli District Collector’s Office on 29 November 2024, in protest over an ongoing property dispute with a DMK functionary.
The group, led by Nainar Mohammed from Thazhayuthu, arrived at the Collector’s office to submit a petition. However, as they stood outside the office, they suddenly pulled out a bottle of kerosene, poured it over themselves, and attempted to set themselves on fire.
In response, police officers stationed for security quickly intervened, confiscating the kerosene and matches from the individuals and dousing them with water. They were subsequently taken in for questioning.
During the inquiry, it was uncovered that one of the individuals, Nainar Mohammed from the Thazhayuthu area, was at the center of the incident. Nainar had entered into a contract worth ₹45 lakhs to purchase an old theater in Thazhayuthu. However, a DMK functionary figure who owned nearby land allegedly attempted to seize control of the theater property that Nainar had contracted for. Following this, Nainar Mohammed took legal action, and while the case remains pending, a court order was issued prohibiting both parties from claiming ownership or conducting any activities on the site.
On the morning of the incident, a group reportedly trespassed onto the theater property and began work. Distressed by this, Nainar, along with his daughter Jannat, daughter-in-law Aleema Begum, and a relative, went to the Tirunelveli District Superintendent of Police’s office to lodge a complaint. When they later attempted to report their grievances at the Collector’s office, Nainar tragically attempted to set himself on fire. The police then took all four individuals to the Palayamkottai police station for further interrogation.
Amidst widespread criticism directed at alleged Gana singer Isai Vani for her song “I Am Sorry Ayyappa,” which was disrespectful to Lord Ayyappa, actor M S Bhaskar has also voiced his disapproval.
The song, which Gaana singer Isaivani performed at an event organized by Dravidian Stock director Pa. Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Center, has been criticized on social media for insulting Lord Ayyappa with lyrics like “Shall I spit on your rituals?”
In response to Isai Vani’s controversial song “I Am Sorry Ayyappa,” actor M.S. Bhaskar posted a message with a backhanded compliment subtly criticized their divisive politics and divisive stance.
Bhaskar said, “I recently listened to the song ‘I Am Sorry Ayyappa’ sung by Isavaani. The way she started singing apologizing to Swami Ayyappa was wonderful, her voice was good. The style of singing combined with dancing was amazing. The only drawback is that the sound of the instruments was so loud that the song could not be heard clearly. It would be even better to set up a stage near Sabarimala and sing such meaningful songs on special occasions like Vishu and Makar Jyothi. So, they too will get special ‘pooja’.”
Bhaskar reflecting on his childhood experiences said, “When I was a child, I saw my elder brother, carrying the irumudi (a sacred bundle of offerings to devotte and lord and ayyapan) and getting Vaikarusi (a mourning ritual). Similarly, they can also get Vaikarusi from their relatives and friends and hold a musical program. Even writer of the song can also be introduced.”
Then ridiculing Isaivani stated, “Such a wonderful song can be sung in all languages like Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada. Devotees of all languages will listen to it and ‘gift’ them, won’t they? Anyone can sing whatever they want. But one thing, Lord Ayyappa will accept this as a ‘Nintha Sruthi’ (a song of criticism).I’m not sure whether the tiger, his vehicle, would approve! ‘I’m sorry, Ayyappa. Please send them back with wisdom.’
Concluding his message, Bhaskar shared his views on true devotion said, “True spirituality and devotion is about not offending feeling of others in the name of worship. Prophet Muhammad forgave those who had harmed him at the very moment. Even when Jesus Christ was crucified and pierced in the side with a spear, he was the one who said, ‘Father… forgive them for their unknowing sins.’ No great spiritual leader ever called for the cursing of other gods or belittling people of different faiths. O Lord, please have mercy and forgive these people’s mistakes made out of ignorance, and grant peace and harmony.”
AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, citing media reports, criticized the ruling DMK government for seeking approval from the Union Government for tungsten mining in Melur, located in Madurai district. However, following significant opposition from local residents, the DMK has now decided to withdraw from the proposal and turn the tables on the Central Government.
On 29 November 2024, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin wrote a letter firmly opposing the Union Government saying that state will not allow tungsten mining in the Arittapatti region and surrounding areas in Madurai district. In the letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Stalin urged the to ‘revoke the mining rights’ awarded to Hindustan Zinc Limited for the Nayakkarpatti Tungsten block, which includes the Arittapatti area.
The Chief Minister highlighted the region’s cultural and ecological significance, noting that Arittapatti is a designated biodiversity heritage site known for its archaeological treasures, including cave temples, sculptures, Jain symbols, Tamil Brahmi scripts, and ancient stone beds. Stalin expressed concern that mining activities would irreparably damage these valuable heritage sites.
Stalin also pointed out that the proposed mining project could devastate the local communities. He stressed that the villagers, who depend on the region for their livelihoods, are deeply concerned about the impact of mining on their way of life. “The people of these villages fear they may lose their livelihoods permanently,” Stalin wrote, reiterating that the Tamil Nadu government would never allow such mining operations.
மதுரை மாவட்டத்தில் வழங்கப்பட்டுள்ள டங்ஸ்டன் சுரங்க உரிமையை உடனடியாக ஒன்றிய அரசு இரத்து செய்ய வேண்டும்! தமிழ்நாடு அரசு இதனை ஒருபோதும் அனுமதிக்காது!
மாநில அரசின் அனுமதியின்றி இதுபோன்ற சுரங்கம் தோண்டுவதற்கான ஏலங்களை மேற்கொள்ளக்கூடாது என மாண்புமிகு பிரதமர் அவர்கள் சுரங்க… pic.twitter.com/Gyzi1qbVUW
According to Stalin’s letter, the Union Ministry of Mines declaried Hindustan Zinc Limited as the preferred bidder for the tungsten block on 7 November 2024. The block spans several villages, including the ecologically sensitive Arittapatti, raising alarm among local residents and environmentalists.
In his letter, Stalin also referenced a previous communication sent by the Tamil Nadu government in October 2023, in which the state raised concerns over the auctioning of critical and strategic mineral mining rights. Despite these concerns, the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Coal, and Mines rejected the state’s objections, insisting that the auction process for such minerals must continue in the larger national interest.
Stalin has now called for the Prime Minister’s immediate intervention to cancel the mining rights and halt any future bids for mining without the state’s consent.
However, on 29 November 2024, speaking to reporters in Salem, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami claimed, “Now, after facing opposition from the public, the DMK is objecting to the project. Chief Minister MK Stalin is simply playing a political game by sending a letter to the Union Government opposing it.”
AIADMK leader Palaniswami’s recent remarks about the DMK government’s handling of the tungsten mining proposal in Madurai are supported by a report from 2023, which confirms his claims. According to the report, the DMK government had sought approval from the Central Government to move forward with the mining project, only to face significant local opposition. In response, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin appears to be playing politics with the issue, rather than pushing ahead with the mining plans.
After identifying significant deposits in the region, the state’s Department of Natural Resources requested permission from the Union Government to mine two key minerals, tungsten and molybdenum. These minerals are crucial for various industrial applications. A senior government official acknowledged the local community’s concerns and assured that the State had sought the Central Government’s approval in light of these socio-economic issues.
The DMK-led Tamil Nadu Government is considering joint ventures to develop these mineral resources. Molybdenum is seen as vital for establishing Tamil Nadu as a hub for hydrogen production, while tungsten has potential uses in energy storage. According to official sources, India’s total molybdenum ore reserves stand at approximately 19.29 million tonnes, with Tamil Nadu holding the largest share—around 9.97 million tonnes. This mineral is highly prized for its use in missile and aircraft components, as well as in the nuclear industry.
Molybdenum is also an essential alloying agent in steel, cast iron, and superalloys, improving strength, corrosion resistance, and wear durability. It is increasingly in demand for use in the automotive industry to produce lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Additionally, the metal is being explored as a potential raw material in the production of hydrogen electrolysers.
Tungsten, a rare and valuable mineral, is found in Madurai district. The Union Government has recognized its strategic importance due to its uses in high-capacity energy storage, particularly in lithium-tungsten oxide batteries. These batteries offer greater stability and energy storage potential, positioning tungsten as a critical resource for future technological advancements.
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On 29 November 2024, K Selvaperunthagai, President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, took a stance in favour of alleged ‘gaana singer’ Isaivani, who sang the “I Am Sorry Ayyappa” song that has hurt Ayyappa devotees. The Congress leader expressed strong support for the controversial ‘Gaana’ singer Isaivani, who faced criticism after making derogatory remarks about Hindu god Lord Ayyappan in one of her songs. Selvaperunthagai condemned the complaints registered against Isaivani, which he claimed were being made by members of the RSS, and called on the Tamil Nadu government to take swift action to protect her.
Speaking to the media, Selvaperunthagai stated, “Tamil singer Isaivani sang a song five years ago, and at no point did she criticize any deity. We, too, are devotees and have visited Sabarimala. Members of RSS, both abroad and within India are threatening her. Therefore, the Tamil Nadu government must take this into consideration and provide her protection. Action should be taken against those who are threatening or making death threats. If something went wrong, if she had sung wrong or said wrong, legal action can be taken, and we will not interfere in that process. But our question is, how is it acceptable to issue death threats? Hence, we are bringing this to the attention of the police and the Honorable Chief Minister.”
When asked about the public objections to the song’s content, Selvaperunthagai stressed that if anyone’s sentiments were hurt, legal action should be taken, and they had no problem with that. However, he strongly condemned targeting a woman. “The law should apply equally to everyone,” he said. “God is universal, and no one should be allowed to issue threats. We, too, face threats when speaking out against the RSS, and if this happens to us, imagine the kind of pressure a woman must face.”
The song, which was performed by Gaana singer Isaivani at an event organized by director Pa. Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Center, has been called out by many on social media for insulting Lord Ayyappa with lyrics like “Shall I spit on your rituals?” and the Tamil Nadu Congress President has come out in support of this singer.
It is noteworthy that the same Isaivani has also sung in praise of Jesus Christ several times.
Here is another song titled “Yesuvai Ni Vittu Pogadhe” which literally translates to “do not leave Jesus” was also sung by her. The songs literally preach the listener to not go in the “wrong path” insinuating other religions as “Satan’s path”.
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As the political atmosphere heats up in Karnataka over the “disenfranchisement of Muslims” demand by Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami, the Karnataka Police on Saturday issued summons to the Vokkaliga seer asking him to appear before it for questioning on December 2.
The summons to the seer comes amid a warning by the BJP of “consequences” if the powerful Vokkaliga seer is troubled by his statement seeking the disenfranchisement of Muslims. The Upparpet police, who earlier booked the FIR against the seer, have asked him to appear before them at 11 A.M. on December 2.
The move is likely to trigger a controversy and confrontation between the BJP and the state’s Congressional government. Karnataka Police slapped an FIR on Friday against Swami for his controversial remark demanding the disenfranchisement of Muslims in India on a police complaint lodged by one Syed Abbas in this regard.
Swami heads the Vishwa Vokkaligara Mahasamsthana Mutt and the statements were made at a protest on Tuesday in Bengaluru, organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, a farmers’ organisation linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to condemn the Waqf Board’s notices to farmers.
Swami stated, “Politicians indulge in vote bank politics and appeasement of Muslims. Hence, Muslims should be deprived of exercising their voting powers. This should be done and the end of vote bank politics would help the progress of the country.” Swami said that in Pakistan, people of other religions, barring the Muslim majority, do not have the power to vote and added that if this is adopted in India, Muslims will keep to themselves and there will be peace in the country.
“Everyone can live in peace,” he stated. The filing of the FIR against him had taken a serious political turn with a Karnataka BJP delegation visiting him on Friday and warning of “serious consequences” if the police booked him. The police have lodged an FIR under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the seer. The complaint stated that the statement by the seer was provocative and threatens to disturb communal harmony in society.
The BJP delegation’s visit to the powerful Vokkaliga seer was headed by Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka and former Deputy CM and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan. Ashoka issued a strong warning to the Karnataka government stating that, “The Congress party’s hatred toward Vokkaligas is disgraceful. If the government dares to target Swamiji, the entire Vokkaliga community will rise against it. “If the Congress government attempts to take action against Vokkaliga seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami, the head of the Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamsthana Mutt, the entire Vokkaliga community will rise in protest.”
–IANS
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The Wire, an online leftist propaganda rag founded in 2015 by Siddharth Varadarajan, former Editor of The Hindu, has often been criticized for its anti-India and anti-Hindutva stance. Over the years, it has faced accusations of publishing unverified and exaggerated reports, leading to its reputation as a leftist propaganda rag. The platform is widely supported by India’s Congress Party and other Left-leaning groups. This article examines The Wire’s efforts to spread disinformation to incite communal discord and anarchy and shield individuals accused of anti-national activities.
This report serves as evidence that The Wire has been continuously running a propaganda campaign against Hindus and the Modi government while supporting extremist radical Islamists. We cover 31 incidents confirming this bias, and in many cases, The Wire admitted that the news it spread was fake.
In November 2024, The Wire claimed that 504,313 additional votes were counted in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, alleging a mismatch between the polled and counted votes. It suggested that the BJP’s victory resulted from manipulation and raised doubts about the constitutional bodies’ credibility.
However, Maharashtra’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) clarified that the total votes counted, including postal ballots, amounted to 6,45,92,508, which is consistent with the total votes polled. The valid postal ballots counted in the Ashti and Osmanabad Assembly constituencies were 4,538 and 4,155, respectively, and these do not constitute excess votes.
In October 2024, The Wire journalist M.K. Venu alleged that 19 lakh EVMs went missing during the Haryana Assembly elections and claimed that the Election Commission had not provided a satisfactory response to these allegations. However, this claim by Venu turned out to be false.
The Election Commission had already addressed these allegations in May 2019, explaining that the transportation of EVMs is managed through a secure Electronic Management System (EMS) that tracks EVMs in real-time. Only EVMs that have passed a First-Level Check and are logged into the system are used for polling. Furthermore, the Supreme Court dismissed similar claims regarding missing EVMs during the 2024 general elections, labeling them as baseless.
Regarding the story https://t.co/VzxlkMebno & news reports,it is clarified that there is no truth in contention that "20 lakh EVMs are missing". The news report is based on inaccurate & specious misinterpretation of partial facts obtained frm RTI frm multiple Public Authorities
The Wire misrepresented data in its coverage of voter turnout in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It compared the total number of registered voters in constituencies that voted in the first five phases of the 2019 elections with the actual voter turnout in the same phases of 2024. This led to the incorrect claim that there was a significant drop of 19.4 crore voters. In reality, 48.5 crore voters participated in the first five phases of the 2019 elections, not 70 crore as The Wire suggested.
Once this error was exposed, The Wire revised the article, shifting the focus to the first phase of the 2024 elections. It now claimed a dip of 1.8 crore voters, but this conclusion was also flawed. The article was updated with a correction noting the earlier comparison was based on the total number of eligible voters from 2019, not actual turnout. The URL of the article was also changed to reflect this new narrative.
Original Title
Once this error was exposed, The Wire revised the article, shifting the focus to the first phase of the 2024 elections. It now claimed a dip of 1.8 crore voters, but this conclusion was also flawed. The article was updated with a correction noting the earlier comparison was based on the total number of eligible voters from 2019, not actual turnout. The URL of the article was also changed to reflect this new narrative.
Altered Title
So @thewire_in has changed the article and claims there was 1.8cr dip in votes polled in phase 1 of 2024 (11,00,52,103) compared to phase 1 of 2019 (9,13,79,409). @SravastiDasgup2 did calculation as follows phase 1 2019 – phase 1 2024 91379409 – 110052103 = -18672694 As per… https://t.co/ML0x4xw0zYpic.twitter.com/voLeXyBgpz
Like always, they added a correction note at the bottom very silently but did not announce the changes anywhere.
So @thewire_in claimed there was a drop of 19cr+ voters in first five phases in 2024 compared to 2019 elections. Their @SravastiDasgup2 got confused between total voters number and votes polled. She used numbers from press releases published 2-3 days before polling date in 2019.… pic.twitter.com/Y4LL7Axa60
Fake News #4: Alleges That BJP Used App To Manipulate Trends
On 6 January 2024, The Wire published a report alleging that the BJP was using an app to manipulate trends and automatically generate online content. The report, based on an August 2020 tweet and some unnamed sources, claimed that the party was utilizing software called TekFog, supposedly led by BJP leader Devang Dave.
However, this claim contradicts a previous retraction by The Wire. On 23 October 2022, The Wire suspended its earlier story from January 2022 regarding TekFog, which Ayushman Kaul and Devesh Kumar had authored. In a statement, The Wire admitted that it was unable to verify the alleged capabilities of the app and did not have access to the actual software.
At that time, The Wire acknowledged that it was unclear whether the TekFog allegations would be examined in their internal investigation.
Fake News #5: India First In ‘Fake News’
On 2 March 2024, The Wire falsely claimed that India ranks first globally in “fake news.” In a video posted on The Wire’s YouTube channel, former NDTV anchor Priyanshi Sharma stated, “India is the number one country globally, not in GDP, employment, or health indicators, but in fake information.” She backed this claim by referencing the 19th edition of the Global Risk Report, published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on 10 January 2024.
However, upon reviewing the source cited, it became clear that the report did not support Sharma’s assertions. The 124-page Global Risk Report 2024 does not claim that India leads in fake information. On page 8, the report highlights misinformation and disinformation as significant challenges for countries like Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, but it does not single out India as the top country in this regard.
Image Source: OpIndia
Fake News #6: Claimed Martyr Not Given Compensation
On 1 September 2023, The Wire published a report claiming that the family of martyred BSF jawan Ranjit Yadav had not received any compensation. The article was written by Yaqut Ali.
However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) fact-checked and debunked this false claim. PIB clarified that Ranjit Yadav’s family, who was killed in action in Manipur, had already received a compensation of Rs 16 lakh under the ‘Golden Jubilee Seema Prahari Kalyan Kavach Yojana.’
-Family of late BSF Jawan received the entitled compensation from Golden Jubilee Seema Prahari Kalyan Kavach Yojana of ₹ 16 lakh pic.twitter.com/BJRpElliws
Despite the fact-check by PIB, The Wire continues to let the article stand published and has written, “The Wire stands by its report.” at the end of the article.
Fake News #7: Lies About Alleged Poster By Advocate Reg Selling Houses To Muslims
On 16 January 2023, The Wire published a report claiming that a poster had been put up in Delhi’s Brahmpuri urging Hindus not to sell their houses to Muslims. The article suggested that advocate Pradeep Sharma distributed the posters.
However, Advocate Sharma denied any involvement, stating that he was unaware of the poster’s contents and had no connection to it. He criticized the act of targeting someone on social media in such a manner, emphasizing that The Wire’s claims were not his words and that he had never given an interview for the report.
Fake News #8: The Wire Journo Arfa Sherwani Lies About Hindus
On 1 October 2022, The Wire journalist Arfa Khanum Sherwani posted on her X handle, “Hindutva fascists are mocking, discouraging, threatening, and even beating up Muslims who are/want to participate in celebrations of Hindu festivals. They are destroying the last remnants of India and its composite culture.”
However, Sherwani’s statement misrepresents the situation. The truth is that in Garba pandals across Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, several Muslim youths altered their identities to gain entry into the celebrations, where they reportedly molested Hindu girls. In response, Hindu organizations and local authorities took action to prevent such illegal activities by conducting investigations and stopping the infiltration.
Fake News #9: Lies About Army Killing Civilian In Kashmir
On 1 July 2022, The Wire published a report claiming that a three-year-old child had stated that the police shot his maternal grandfather, despite numerous instances where terrorists have been caught wearing police uniforms.
In reality, 65-year-old Bashir Ahmed Khan was killed by terrorists’ bullets. He was on his way to the market with his three-year-old grandson when the attack occurred. After being shot, Bashir Ahmed’s bloodied body collapsed on the road, with his grandson sitting on his deceased grandfather’s body.
The news surfaced on some social networking sites that the civilian was brought down and killed is totally baseless and is far beyond the facts, Sopore Police refutes and denies the news and legal action shall be initiated against the false reports and rumours @KashmirPolice
Fake News #10: Spread Lies That Muslims Were Fleeing A Locality In Delhi Over Police Extortion
On 2 June 2022, The Wire published a report about the violence in Delhi’s Jahangirpuri, citing local sources who claimed that members of the Muslim community were fleeing the area and that the police were harassing innocent Muslims to extort money.
However, a ground investigation by OpIndia revealed that these claims were false. In fact, the area where The Wire reported fear of displacement due to bulldozer activity was busy with the unloading of junk, and there was no indication of any official action or administrative presence. Additionally, activities were ongoing near the mosque, which had been identified by Hindu organizations as the starting point for stone pelting, and all nearby shops were open and functioning as usual.
Fake News #11: Uploads Fake Video & Instigates Violence
On 5 April 2022, The Wire published a video report about violence in Karauli, Rajasthan, which showed a young man hoisting a saffron flag on a mosque. The video suggested that this act triggered the violence in the area. However, it was later revealed that the video was not filmed in Rajasthan.
Once again The Wire is spreading fake propaganda in its biased report and they working to spread communal tension by using misinformation and lies. pic.twitter.com/j0PGBUo4rp
The District Magistrate (DM) of Karauli issued a statement confirming that the mosque shown in the video was not located in his district, calling the report fake news. The Wire was accused of attempting to incite Muslim sentiments with this false information.
Fake News #12: Blames BJP For “Targeting” Muslims
On 23 February 2022, The Wire shared an image claiming it was created by Hindutva groups in 2020. The image depicted the coronavirus riding on the shoulders of a Muslim man.
To add credibility to this insinuation, The Wire’s Siddharth Varadarajan cited a propaganda piece from Turkish state media, linking to an article by Werleman on TRT World from April 2020, which he referred to as a perspective from “several analysts.”
It is noteworthy that CJ Werleman’s X account is withheld in India.
However, The Wire appeared to align itself with an apologetic stance toward Islamist behavior, having previously spread Taliban propaganda. This seemed to be part of an effort to tarnish the image of Prime Minister Modi, the BJP, and its supporters, while promoting an anti-Hindu narrative.
Fake News #13: Fake News During Corona Pandemic About Covaxin
The Wire published several articles making false allegations against Bharat Biotech and its COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, particularly regarding its authorization and approvals, without verifying the facts.
On 23 February 2022, the Ranga Reddy District Court in Telangana ordered The Wire, a left-leaning news outlet, to remove 14 articles it had published against Bharat Biotech and Covaxin.
[BREAKING] In a 100 CRORE defamation case filed by BHARAT BIOTECH, Andhra Court ordered taking down of 14 articles on @thewire_in and restrained
The court clarified that Covaxin had been approved for the 15 to 18 age group, yet The Wire continued to publish misleading reports, which could contribute to vaccine hesitancy.
Fake News #14: Fake News On Immune Response Data For Covaxin
On 28 December 2021, The Wire published an article claiming that there was no available data on the immune response generated by Covaxin.
However, Bharat Biotech clarified that data on the immune response generated by Covaxin had been published in several reputable international peer-reviewed journals throughout 2020 and 2021.
Additionally, the company stated that the data regarding booster doses had already been submitted to the relevant authorities.
Fake News #15: Alleging That Spl Police Officers Were Joining Terrorist Groups Out Of Fear
On 28 June 2021, The Wire published a report titled “They Have Destroyed My Family,” alleging that in recent years, special police officers were leaving their posts and joining terrorist groups out of fear of terrorists.
In response, the Kashmir Police issued a statement debunking The Wire’s claims, labeling the report as completely false. The police emphasized that such allegations against security forces were being made without any factual basis or data to support them.
The Kashmir Police further accused The Wire of promoting a false agenda and issued a show-cause notice, seeking an explanation as to why a complaint should not be filed against the article with the Press Council of India.
Fake News #16: Lied About Mosque Demolished By Authorities
On 22 and 23 June 2021, The Wire released a video on its YouTube and Twitter platforms, falsely claiming that a mosque in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, was destroyed and desecrated by the authorities.
How a Mosque in UP's Barabanki Was Demolished.
Watch The Wire's ground report by @_serajali_ and @mukulschauhan in which they discuss the issue with the state administration as well as the members from the mosque committee and their lawyer.
The District Magistrate, Adarsh Singh, responded to the claims, stating that the documentary contained false and unfounded information. He specifically refuted the claim that the administration and police had thrown religious scriptures into a drain and river, calling it completely untrue.
Fake News #17: Spread Fake News About Elderly Muslim Man Being Beaten Up
On 16 June 2021, the Ghaziabad Police in Uttar Pradesh registered an FIR against The Wire for spreading misleading information on social media about an incident involving an elderly man being beaten.
The media outlet had circulated a false report claiming that a Muslim man, Abdul Samad Saifi, was attacked in Ghaziabad’s Loni area and forced to chant “Jai Shri Ram.” The Ghaziabad Police filed an FIR under sections 153, 153-A, 295-A, 505, 120-B, and 34 of the IPC against the PS Loni Border police station in response to the false claims made by The Wire.
Fake News #18: Makes False Claim On Rajnath Singh And Ramcharitmanas, Silently Retracts It
The Wire claimed that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a video conference at a Ram Navami function in Lucknow, stated that the recitation of the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem by Tulsidas, could cure COVID-19 by boosting positivity in individuals, adding that it could act as a remedy for major diseases.
A story posted on our website today wrongly claimed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had said the Ramcharitmanas would help the fight against COVID-19.
The story was based on unverified reports from other news sources and has been withdrawn. pic.twitter.com/GDGXafDEz6
However, just hours after publishing the article on 24 April 2021, The Wire retracted the report on Twitter. In the tweet, they acknowledged that the story was based on unverified reports from other news sources and stated that the erroneous claim about Rajnath Singh had been withdrawn.
Fake News #19: Falsely Claims Digital Media Guidelines Retracted
The Wire falsely reported that a retired judge, selected by a panel from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), would head a self-regulatory body under the IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules. However, the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check debunked this claim. In reality, the self-regulatory body would be constituted by publishers, not MIB, and could be led by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge or a person of eminence.
The Wire: A retired judge appointed from a panel prepared by @MIB_India will head the self-regulatory body under IT Rules#PIBFactCheck: Fake!
The body would be constituted by publishers & not MIB or a panel by MIB. It can be headed by a retired SC/HC judge or an eminent person pic.twitter.com/fb2HRlJFs5
Fake News #20: Omits Accused’s Islamist Identity In Suicide Case
In January 2021, a 25-year-old Dalit youth, Dharampal Diwakar, from Malwan, Uttar Pradesh, died by suicide after being beaten by two individuals, Noor Mohammad and Salman, for allegedly plucking leaves from their mango tree.
While the police arrested the accused, The Wire reported the incident without mentioning their religious identity, intentionally omitting it in the headline. In another report when the perpetrators were allegedly Hindu, they blamed “upper caste men” for the suicide.
The report instead downplayed the religious aspect of the crime committed by the Muslim accused.
Fake News #21: Published Fake Report On Safoora Zargar
Delhi Police criticized The Wire for publishing a misleading report regarding Safoora Zargar, a Delhi riots accused.
The report falsely claimed police and judicial bias against the Muslim community. On 15 May 2020, Delhi Police pointed out that the journalist had combined two separate FIRs with the same number, fabricating a narrative of bias and discrimination.
Fake News #22: Published Fake Report On Muslim Families
The Wire falsely reported that Muslim families living along the Punjab-Himachal border were being forced to live on riverbeds, deprived of food and water, after being beaten and chased from their homes.
In response, Hoshiarpur Police dismissed the allegations, providing evidence to disprove the claims and expose the propaganda.
Fake News #23:Made False Claims On Ram Navami And Tablighi Jamaat
On 31 March 2020, The Wire chief Siddharth Varadarajan tweeted in support of the Tablighi Jamaat, alleging that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had approved a fair in Ayodhya on Ram Navami and claimed that Lord Ram would protect everyone from the coronavirus.
In response, Yogi’s media advisor, Mrityunjay Kumar, refuted the claim, stating that the Chief Minister never made such a statement and warned of legal action and defamation for spreading false information.
हमारी चेतावनी के बावजूद इन्होंने अपने झूठ को ना डिलीट किया ना माफ़ी माँगी।
कार्यवाही की बात कही थी, FIR दर्ज हो चुकी है आगे की कार्यवाही की जा रही है।
अगर आप भी योगी सरकार के बारे में झूठ फैलाने के की सोच रहे है तो कृपया ऐसे ख़्याल दिमाग़ से निकाल दें। pic.twitter.com/1xPWWQVxGx
Fake News #24: Falsely Defended Muslim Rioters, Misidentifies School Ownership
On 5 March 2020, The Wire published misleading information to protect Muslim riot suspects in Delhi’s Shiv Vihar. They claimed that DRP School, which was set on fire during the riots, was a Muslim institution, while in reality, Pankaj Sharma, a Hindu, owned it.
Meanwhile, Rajdhani School, located next door, became a stronghold for rioters, with reports of stone pelting and violence emanating from it.
Fake News #25: Misled With False Claims About CAA
On 20 December 2019, The Wire published a misleading article suggesting that the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) would lead to the expulsion of Muslims from India, portraying them as illegal citizens without voting rights, destined for detention centers.
This false narrative claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah were behind these plans. However, Amit Shah clarified in an interview that implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would not be based on religion, and only infiltrators, regardless of their faith, would be removed from the country.
Fake News #26: Misrepresented Kashmir Student Clash as Communal
On 19 November 2019, The Wire published an article titled “Kashmiris called terrorists and thrashed by fellow students,” attempting to give a communal twist to a student clash.
However, a Kashmiri student, speaking anonymously, clarified that the altercation was not due to religious differences but because of resentment over their ability to get passes for outings. The students involved in the clash were also Muslims, contradicting The Wire’s portrayal of the incident as religiously motivated.
Fake News #27:Falsely Claimed No Newspapers In Kashmir Post-Article 370 Abrogation
On 26 August 2019, The Wire falsely claimed that no newspapers had been published in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, describing the situation as “worse than the Emergency of 1975-77.” However, journalist Ashok Srivastava from Doordarshan debunked this claim during a TV debate by presenting evidence of newspapers still being published and distributed in Kashmir. He showcased photos and copies of newspapers from the period around 18-19 August 2019, disproving The Wire’s narrative.
Fake News #28: Wire Journo Arfa Sherwani Misled On Gorakhpur Temple’s History
On 27 April 2019, The Wire journalist Arfa Khanum Sherwani tweeted from Gorakhpur, claiming that the Math, led by Yogi Adityanath, was built on land donated by Muslim Nawab Asif-ud-Daula.
However, the Twitter handle True Indology fact-checked this claim, revealing that the temple is actually at least 800 years old, predating Nawab Asif-ud-Daula by 225 years. True Indology refuted Sherwani’s statement using references from historical texts and the Archaeological Survey of India.
Gorakhnath temple is much older than the Nawab. It was believed to be established by Gorakhnath himself.
Whatever the case, the temple was already destroyed by Khilji in 13th century,meaning it already existed by then
Fake News #29: Made False Claim About Kashmir Girls In Dehradun
On 17 February 2019, The Wire reported that a mob had threatened Kashmiri girls studying at a university in Dehradun, demanding they vacate their hostel. The article quoted one girl who allegedly appealed for help, fearing an attack.
However, despite responses from Dehradun Police and CRPF clarifying the situation, The Wire continued to spread the unverified rumor without naming any of the students or providing credible details, turning an unfounded claim into a reported fact.
Fake News #30: Made False Report On Kashmir Students Suspended For Celebrating Pulwama Attack
On 16 February 2019, The Wire published a report claiming that four Kashmiri girls were suspended by NIMS University in Rajasthan for allegedly celebrating the Pulwama attack and raising anti-national slogans. However, the truth reveals that the students gave similar responses to public outrage following the incident, which raised serious concerns about inciting sentiments.
Despite this, no appropriate action was taken to properly address the situation.
Fake News #31: Posts Misleading Report On Kashmiri Students Suspended After Pulwama Attack
On 15 February 2019, The Wire reported that two Kashmiri students were suspended and one was rusticated by colleges in Uttarakhand following the Pulwama attack. One of the students had posted a photo of Shoaib Lone, a Hizbul Mujahideen militant killed in an encounter, with a message glorifying his death: “Allah aapki shahadat qabool kare” (“May Allah accept your martyrdom”).
However, the report overlooks critical details, including the fact that the student’s actions led to significant backlash, and the students later issued apologies for their posts. This raises concerns about selective reporting and context omission.
The Wire has proven itself not as a platform for ‘independent journalism’ as it claims but as a deliberate purveyor of misinformation, repeatedly fabricating stories to fit an anti-Hindu and anti-India narrative. With a shameful track record riddled with retracted articles, baseless allegations, and debunked claims, it is evident that The Wire functions less as a news outlet and more as a propaganda machine for vested ideological interests and probably foreign forces. Its attempts to manipulate public perception by distorting facts are not just irresponsible but dangerous that has the potential to create unrest in the country.
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