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‘I Will Have You Raided By ED’: Lalit Modi Alleges Coercion By Congress MP Shashi Tharoor During Kochi IPL Team Purchase Bid Process

By
The Commune
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'I Will Have You Raided By ED': Lalit Modi Alleges Coercion By Congress MP Shashi Tharoor During Kochi IPL Team Purchase Bid Process

In a recent podcast interview with Raj Shamani, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi revealed a lot of things, ranging from the reasons behind his departure from India in 2010 to death threats by underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, multiple documented assassination attempts orchestrated by Ibrahim, the IPL history, and what was the most explosive revelation: the involvement of Congress member Shashi Tharoor during the IPL team purchase bids.

During the conversation, Modi also accused Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and the party’s leadership of coercion and corruption during the league’s early years. Modi alleged that he was “forcibly made to sign documents” granting Sunanda Pushkar, Tharoor’s late wife, a 25% ownership stake worth millions in the Kochi IPL team without any financial contribution on her part. He further claimed that the Congress-led UPA government, including “10 Janpath” (a reference to the Gandhi family), fostered an environment of unchecked corruption during its tenure.

He also criticized the handling of IPL affairs under the Congress government, alleging that mismanagement and corruption led to Kerala losing its IPL team. Modi’s allegations revive the controversies surrounding the Kochi IPL franchise, which was mired in financial and political disputes during its brief existence.

Here are two videos that are being shared on social media relating to Shashi Tharoor.

Lalit Modi says, “The second highest bid was $348 million by Kochi Tuskers. I looked at the 12 shareholders, it was supposed to be JP Group. All of a sudden, something totally different, I am tick marking everybody and there’s one name I see out there, a lady by the name of Sunanda Pushkar. Sunanda Pushkar in the agreement had $0 in the $50 million consortium but owns 25% of the team for free! Plus for every dollar coming in, revenue line, she gets 15% of it. I said I am not going to sign this agreement. Immediately I get a call from Shashi Tharoor. He said, “Don’t you dare ask about Sunanda Pushkar, if you I’ll have you raided by ED tomorrow, you’ll be taken by Income Tax and we will jail you.”

In another video, he explains how Tharoor allegedly coerced Modi into signing an agreement that granted a significant financial stake to Sunanda Pushkar, Tharoor’s late wife, under questionable circumstances. Modi detailed the events alleging undue pressure from Tharoor, BCCI officials, and political figures linked to the Congress party.

According to Modi, during discussions about the Kochi IPL franchise, he questioned the credentials of the consortium’s shareholders. He discovered that Sunanda Pushkar, listed as a “marketing genius,” held a 25% stake in the team valued at $300 million, despite contributing no capital to the $50 million consortium. Pushkar was also entitled to 15% of the franchise’s revenue, not profits.

When Modi sought clarification about Pushkar’s involvement, he claims Tharoor responded aggressively, allegedly threatening him with investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and income tax authorities. “Don’t you dare ask about Sunanda Pushkar,” Tharoor allegedly told him, warning of dire consequences if Modi did not comply.

The situation escalated when then-BCCI president Shashank Manohar reportedly intervened, pressuring Modi to sign the agreement immediately. Despite his objections, Modi said he was forced to sign the agreement under duress, recording this in the meeting’s minutes.

He says, “Then I am being pressured, I must sign this deal why Mr. Shashi Tharoor is pressuring. I told him I haven’t signed the deal but let me meet all the shareholders. And I ask all the shareholders you guys, one by one I would like to ask each one of you a question and everything is recorded by the way, all my meetings are always recorded, tell me what your background is, I don’t know you, I don’t know you, I don’t know you, I don’t know you, I don’t know you, I don’t know you, I don’t know you and I’m in the Cricket World, I would know everybody in the Cricket World or the business world, that is to know but it doesn’t matter it’s not my knowing, you may be who you are and everybody gives their credentials out there. And then I’m tick marking everybody and there’s one name I see out there who’s missing and it is a lady by the name of Sunanda Pushkar. Now Sunanda Pushkar in the agreement has $0 in the $50 million Consortium but owns 25% of the team for free, plus for every dollar coming in the revenue line, not profit line, revenue line, she gets 15% of it. As marketing genius written there. There, so one guy Mr Gaekwad speaks up in a low tone, he says, my father knows this lady and he brought her into the Consortium, so can I speak to your father, called the father. I said who is Sunanda Pushkar. I asked him, you have brought in Sunanda Pushkar, you are giving her 25% share, and 15% on top of it, you shareholders who own 75% are funding her and your total consortium cost is $50 million. This means that you are funding entirely, you are giving her as well, this means that a share if it costs 10 rupees, today its value is 10 paisa but her share is worth 10000 rupees. Why are you giving her this bonanza? And you call her a marketing genius, can I please meet her at least? He said yes sir I will call you back, put the phone down. Immediately I get a call from Shashi Tharoor. He says how dare you ask about Sunanda Pushkar. Shashi, what is the problem you put a consortium, you know I’m having a meeting, why isn’t she here? Don’t you dare ask about Sunanda Pushkar, if you do, I will have you raided by ED tomorrow, you’ll be taken by income tax and we will jail you. Excuse me, who the hell do you think you are and I use the f word I said **** you and I banged the phone down and I said I’m not going to sign this agreement. There is something not right with this. Within a minute after that, it’s all minuted by the way, this is exactly minute in the board minutes, because there’s a meeting going on, minutes of the AGM. I get a call from Shashank Manohar who never calls at this time in the morning or ever. He was the president of BCCI, my only boss that I reported to, even as commissioner and chairman of IPL, I reported to him and he said to me, Lalit you will sign this agreement, I said Shashank you really don’t want me to sign this agreement, let’s sit down tomorrow I can fly into Nagpur and we’ll meet tomorrow morning, I’m going to Bombay instead of going to Bombay, I’ll fly to Nagpur and we can sit down on it and then decide yes or no. He said no you will sign it tonight. I said what’s the hurry about signing it tonight he said no you need to sign it tonight, I have received many calls from 10 Janpath and you need to sign it tonight. Exact words. I said I don’t care who 10 Janpath is or who anybody is, I’m not going to sign this agreement tonight. If you don’t, I will fire you on the spot. I said that’s fine, he didn’t say I will fire you, he said I will you run against me or something. I said that if you’re forcing me to sign it, then I will I will sign it under force and I will minute it on the agreement itself, that under duress and under force and as directed by the president of BCCI, I’m signing this agreement and not on my own accord and I signed the agreement. I’m done, water under the bridge as far as I’m concerned, and we go to bed. I get up in the morning, and every newspaper front page Sunanda Pushkar getting married to Shashi Tharoor. I had no idea, zero idea that was the case. Now all the pieces start to fall in place and I said this is not going to happen under my watch, it ain’t going to happen and I’m on the flame, I just tweeted taking off, who is the hell is this Sunanda Pushkar, rags to riches, billionairess, media expert, now the owner of Kochi Team, 25%, a bonanza – day one with one signature it’s worth hundreds of millions of dollars because the team went for hundreds of millions of dollars. She owns a free $300 million asset, right there.”

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Akhila Bharatha Vazhakkarignargal Sangam Of Madras HC Commemorates Constitution Day

By
The Commune
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Akhila Bharatha Vazhakkarignargal Sangam Of Madras HC Commemorates Constitution Day

The Akhila Bharatha Vazhakkarignargal Sangam, (ABVS) a unit of Akhila Bharatha Adhivakta Parishad (ABAP), marked Constitution Day with a solemn ceremony aimed at reinforcing the principles of the Constitution and celebrating the legal profession.

The event began with a welcome address by Thiru. Shivaprakash, President of the High Court Unit. The Oath of the Constitution was administered by Thiru. ARL Sundaresan, Additional Solicitor General (ASG), who also delivered a thought-provoking presiding address. Speaking directly to young lawyers, Sundaresan emphasized the importance of continuous learning, integrity, and hard work in the profession. “Be fair and sincere to your clients, advise them truthfully, and avoid giving false hope,” he remarked, highlighting that the legal institution’s reputation and the profession’s progress rely on these core values.

Thiru. Palanikumar followed with an overview of the organization’s accomplishments over the past year, highlighting five significant initiatives:

  1. Young Advocates Day (January 12, 2024), which included a mentorship program for emerging lawyers and an opportunity for select advocates to gain firsthand experience at the Supreme Court, Parliament, the Law Commission, and the NHRC.
  2. Women Advocates Day (March 8, 2024), dedicated to addressing challenges faced by women in the legal profession and enhancing their work environment.
  3. Constitution Day (November 26, 2024), celebrating the foundational document of the nation.
  4. Stapna Divas/Foundation Day, featuring literacy and legal aid initiatives.
  5. Vyasa Purnima/Guru Purnima, dedicated to honoring senior advocates who have mentored young lawyers and contributed to the growth of the profession.

The highlight of the event was the Constitutional Address delivered by Honorable Thiru. Justice R. Suresh Kumar. He underscored India’s unique tradition of celebrating a document—the Constitution—rather than just individual or institutional milestones. Justice Kumar shed light on the exhaustive process of drafting the Constitution, including over 2,500 amendments and reviews, and praised its structural brilliance and foresight in addressing complex issues like water disputes and the division of powers. He particularly emphasized the role of district courts in upholding justice and called for leveraging the Constitution’s strength to ensure progress for every citizen.

The event also included a felicitation address by Thiru. Rajesh Vivekanadan, Deputy Solicitor General (DSG), who lauded the organization’s growth and echoed the call for regular meetings among lawyers to address their challenges and those of the society.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Shalini, Advocate, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and participants for making the event a success.

The celebration reaffirmed the High Court’s commitment to constitutional values and the continuous growth and mentorship of legal professionals.

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“Will Court Survey Tirupati And Srirangam Temples?” DMK Ally VCK Leader Asks, Makes Casteist Attack On Supreme Court

By
The Commune
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"Will Court Survey Tirupati And Srirangam Temples?" DMK Ally VCK Leader Asks, Makes Casteist Attack On Supreme Court

Vanni Arasu, the Deputy General Secretary of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), has once again stirred a controversy by making casteist remarks about the Supreme Court on social media, following the court’s order for a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh. In a controversial post, Arasu described the Supreme Court as an “Uchikudimi Mandram”, a derogatory casteist reference to Supreme Court alleging it to be Brahmin-dominated and accusing the judiciary of bias.

Arasu’s outburst came after a series of legal developments surrounding the Places of Worship Act and ongoing disputes over the religious status of mosques and temples in India. He criticized the court for its handling of the Ram Janmabhoomi case, claiming that the Supreme Court had unjustly awarded the land to Hindu side. Arasu also drew parallels to the Gyanvapi and Shahi Idgah mosques, arguing that the Sanatana groups (aka Hindus) were using the courts to alter the religious character of places of worship.

The post has sparked outrage for its inflammatory rhetoric, with critics accusing Arasu of undermining the integrity of India’s judicial system while trying to inflame religious and caste-based tensions. His comments are seen as part of a broader attempt to stir communal sentiments under the guise of defending minority interests.

In a controversial post aimed to simp attention from minority Muslim groups in the state, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu took to his official X account on 25 November 2024, to state that, “Will Thiruvarangam and Tirupati be inspected? The court ordered an inspection of the mosque on the petition filed by a Hindu temple priest in the Chambal district court of UP, alleging that there was a Hindu temple at the site of the Shahi Jama Masjid. An inspection was also conducted last week. In this situation, when the Hindu side went to inspect again today, the Muslims opposed it. 5 Muslim youths were killed in the police firing to control the protest. The inspection was completed again in the mosque with police protection.”

Calling Hindus as terrorists, the INDI-ally VCK leader said, “The Babri Masjid was demolished by the Sanatana terrorist group in 1992. While Advani had organized a nationwide protest rally in 1990 and in response to the hate propaganda, the Prime Minister Narasimha Rao passed the ‘Places of Worship Act’ in Parliament in 1991, with exception to Ayodhya Babri Masjid issue.”

“The main sections 4 & 5 of the Places of Worship Act say. //4.(1) The religious character of a place of worship existing on 15th August 1947 shall continue to exist as it existed on that day 5. Nothing contained in this Act shall apply to the place or place of worship commonly known as the Ram Janmabhoomi Babri Masjid situated at Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh and to any suit, appeal or other proceeding in respect of that place or place//”, he added.

“A law was brought with a exception made for the Babri Masjid case. In 2019, the Supreme Court awarded the Babri Masjid land to the Sanatan terrorist group through Kattapanchayat (Kangaroo court). Recently retired Chief Justice Chandrachud had spoken at an event in his hometown in the state of Maharashtra a few days before that. He said that he had been struggling for 3 months to decide the Babri Masjid case and that he had sat in front of the idol of God and requested him to give a solution to the case himself. Even in such a judgment, the Places of Worship Act has been discussed in great detail. The law should not be used as a tool to correct the mistakes of history. The Supreme Court, has expressed the opinion that the Places of Worship Act was brought by the Parliament with the aim of protecting and strengthening one of the fundamental elements of the Indian Constitution, secularism.”, he further ranted.

“However, there was a temple in the Gyanavapi Masjid area next to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A case was filed in the Varanasi District Court seeking to declare the religious nature of the place as a temple. The court allowed an inspection to be conducted inside the mosque and for Hindus to worship in the specified area. The mosque’s side, which opposed this, was dismissed in the Allahabad High Court. It was said that the Places of Worship Act was not applicable here.” He further added.

“In the Uchikudimi (tuft of hair kept at the back of the head typically by Brahmins) Mandra appeal, Chief Justice Chandrachud refused to interfere with the Allahabad High Court verdict. The petitioner had asked for confirmation of the religious nature of a particular place of worship. He said that this was not against the Places of Worship Act, and determining religious nature would not change the religious nature of the place. Like the Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, there is a case that the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Mathura is the birthplace of Krishna. Following Ayodhya, the RSS group’s next in line target is Kashi and Mathura.” He further added making defamatory remarks.

“The argument put forward by the Sanatana group, which is filing a case against Islamic places of worship, is that even if the idols of gods are removed from the place of worship, the place continues to be a temple. The religious nature of the place does not change.Sanatana has taken over Jain and Buddhist places of worship through violence. Revolutionary Ambedkar said that Indian history is the struggle between Buddhism and Brahminism. According to the Sanatana group, if we request to examine the religious nature of Thiruvarangam-Tirupathi, will the court accept it?”, he finally said.

(Archived Post – Vanni Arasu)

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How Congress And Alleged Author Aziz Burney Fabricated RSS Terror Conspiracy After 26/11 Mumbai Attacks

By
The Commune
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How Congress And Alleged Author Aziz Burney Fabricated RSS Terror Conspiracy After 26/11 Mumbai Attacks

During the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while global attention focused on Pakistan’s involvement, certain leaders within the Congress party and their affiliated circles propagated baseless conspiracy theories accusing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of orchestrating the attacks. Years later, it is well-documented how Congress leaders promoted the narrative of ‘saffron terrorism’ to implicate the RSS in the 2008 carnage, despite overwhelming evidence pointing to Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

One of the prominent figures amplifying this narrative was Aziz Burney, the Group Editor of Sahara Publications, which included outlets like Roznama Rashtriya Sahara and Bazm-e-Sahara. Burney authored a controversial book titled 26/11 RSS Ki Saazish? (26/11: An RSS Conspiracy?), which alleged that the RSS had conspired in the terror attacks. The book’s English edition, titled 26/11: Biggest Attack in India’s History, presented what Burney claimed was an “alternative view” of the events.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh played a significant role in endorsing Burney’s work. Singh inaugurated the book on two separate occasions—in Delhi and Mumbai—publicly aligning with its controversial claims. During one of these events, Singh alleged that Hemant Karkare, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief who was killed during the attacks, had contacted him just two hours before the siege, reportedly expressing distress over threats he faced while investigating the 2008 Malegaon blast, a case in which so-called ‘Hindu extremists’ were accused. Singh’s statements diverted blame from Pakistan and suggested a connection between the RSS and the terror attacks.

Burney authored book and editorials that accused not just the RSS but also the CIA and Mossad of involvement in the 26/11 attacks, effectively giving a clean chit to Pakistan and its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). In one particularly inflammatory claim, Burney alleged that the Indian Army was responsible for ATS chief Karkare’s death. He further implicated RSS leaders and Gujarat’s then Chief Minister Narendra Modi in the attack, without presenting credible evidence. According to Burney, Karkare was killed by “high-ranking individuals in the Mumbai police” with the help of the Indian Army.

Burney also propagated bizarre and disproven theories, such as Mumbai police constables firing shots at CST station and BJP members staging Ajmal Kasab’s capture for CCTV cameras. These claims were outright refuted in court, as credible evidence, including testimony from Times of India photojournalist Shriram Vernekar, established Kasab’s identity and actions during the attacks.

Burney’s close ties with Congress leaders further complicated matters. He reportedly shared a strong rapport with then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who had previously felicitated Burney and his Urdu publication Roznama Rashtriya Sahara for contributions to regional journalism. Burney was even part of the official Indian delegation during Dr. Singh’s visits to France and Egypt in 2009. At the time, speculation arose about Burney potentially receiving a Rajya Sabha nomination under the UPA government.

Despite his proximity to Congress leadership, Burney faced legal challenges for his incendiary allegations. In August 2009, social worker Vinay Joshi filed a defamation case against Burney for spreading false conspiracy theories in Sahara publications. A Mumbai court found that Burney lacked any evidence to substantiate his claims against the RSS. Under pressure, Burney issued a public apology in his newspapers for linking the RSS to the 26/11 attacks. He even offered to rename his controversial book. However, the RSS rejected his apology, maintaining that Burney’s baseless accusations had caused irreparable harm.

This episode highlights how, even amidst the clear culpability of Pakistan in the 26/11 attacks, certain political figures and affiliated entities sought to manufacture narratives aimed at vilifying domestic groups like the RSS. These actions not only undermined the truth but also detracted from the global fight against terrorism by shifting focus away from the real perpetrators.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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Dispute Halts Annual Chariot Festival At Christ The King Church In Gangavalli, Salem District

By
The Commune
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Dispute Halts Annual Chariot Festival At Christ The King Church In Gangavalli, Salem District

An annual tradition at the Christ the King Church in Gangavalli, Salem District, the chariot festival, usually held in November, faced an unexpected disruption this year. The festival, which began with the hoisting of the flag on 17 November 2024, includes a procession with three chariots — Christ the King, Saint Nickel, and Arogya mata — parading along the Thiruveethi Ula.

However, tensions arose between two groups involved in the festival over the handling and placement of idols in the chariots, which were arranged in three mini-cargo vans. The disagreement escalated, prompting local police to step in and deny permission for the procession to proceed along the designated route.

A negotiation led by Attur DSP Sathishkumar and other officers was initiated to resolve the issue. After discussions between the conflicting parties, it was agreed that the festival should proceed peacefully.

Despite the resolution, the chariot procession did not take place, as the idols were not placed in the chariots. To maintain order, over 20 police officers were stationed at the Christ the King Church complex, ensuring security throughout the event.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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Ancient Ramayana Palm Leaf Manuscripts Dating Back 250 Yrs Discovered Near Vaniyambadi In TN

By
The Commune
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Ancient Ramayana Palm Leaf Manuscripts Dating Back 250 Yrs Discovered Near Vaniyambadi In TN

In a remarkable discovery, palm leaf manuscripts of the Ramayana dating back 250 years have been found near Vaniyambadi for the first time. The discovery was made during a field survey led by Dr. K. Mohan Gandhi, a Professor of Tamil at Tirupathur Pure Heart College, alongside Kaninilam Munusamy, Siddha practitioner Srinivasan, and Dr. Kamini.

Dr. Mohan Gandhi explained how the find came about, “A third-year computer science student, Monish, mentioned that his grandmother had ancient manuscripts. This led us to Ezhil Ammaiyar, a retired teacher residing in Vanniya Adikalar Nagar near Chettiyappanur, Vaniyambadi. She showed us five bundles of manuscripts she had collected, which turned out to be Ramayana manuscripts.”

The manuscripts were meticulously examined, with the fifth bundle revealing intriguing details. The bundle contained 419 leaves, written on both sides, measuring approximately 1.36 feet in length and 0.13 feet in width. The pages feature 7 to 8 lines of text, with 49 to 52 characters per line. The title page of the manuscript reads “Virapadhamma Kavadan Penchathi Narasammal Ezhithinathu,” (விறப்பதம்ம கவடன் பெஞ்சாதி நரசம்மாள் எழிதினது) and the manuscript starts with the story of Rama and Lakshmana informing Ravana about the death of Thumba and Nithumba in battle.

Each leaf is marked with a Tamil numeral page number and the phrase “Nandraga” (Good) on the cover. The manuscripts show signs of aging, with slight damage, including some torn and stuck-together leaves. The writing style is believed to be at least 250 years old, with the last leaf containing a concluding note.

Before the use of modern paper, ancient Tamil literature was often inscribed on palm leaves. This discovery is significant as it illustrates that the Ramayana was circulating in Tamil Nadu through manuscript form up to 250 years ago. Professor Dr. V. Nedunchezhiyan from Tiruvannamalai, a retired principal, also assisted in reading and interpreting the manuscripts.

Dr. Gandhi emphasized the need for the district administration to preserve and document these ancient manuscripts, highlighting their cultural and historical value.

(With inputs from Kamadenu)

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The Wire Peddles False Info Claiming Voter Discrepancy In 2024 Maharashtra Elections Omitting Postal Ballot Counts

By
The Commune
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Manufactured Mayhem: How A Fabricated Story Of 5 Lakh 'Missing' Votes By The Wire Spread Like Wildfire

An article published by The Wire on alleged mismatches between the votes polled and votes counted during the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 has raised eyebrows for its inaccuracies and misrepresentation of facts. The report claims that constituencies like Ashti and Osmanabad showed significant discrepancies, with “additional” votes counted beyond the polled turnout figures. The article says, “The greatest discrepancies were noted in the Ashti constituency, where 4,538 more votes were counted than polled, and in the Osmanabad constituency, where the difference was 4,155 votes.”

However, a closer examination of the Election Commission of India (ECI) data debunks this claim.

What The Wire Reported

The Wire alleges that the number of votes counted exceeded the voter turnout in Ashti and Osmanabad constituencies, citing discrepancies of 4,538 and 4,155 votes respectively. The article goes on to suggest that these mismatches reflect broader systemic issues and calls for increased transparency in the electoral process.

Postal Ballots Explain Numbers

The so-called “discrepancies” in Ashti and Osmanabad are easily explained by the inclusion of postal votes, which The Wire completely ignored in its analysis.

Ashti Constituency

    • Votes Polled (ECI Turnout Data): Matches the total EVM votes recorded during polling.
    • Additional Votes Claimed by The Wire: These are postal ballots, which are counted separately and added to the final tally.

Osmanabad Constituency

    • Votes Polled (ECI Turnout Data): Again matches the total EVM votes.
    • Difference Claimed by The Wire: Also explained by postal votes, which are part of the legally mandated vote count.

By failing to account for postal votes, The Wire has misrepresented the data as discrepancies, misleading its readers and potentially eroding public confidence in the electoral process.

Postal Votes

Postal votes are ballots cast by eligible voters unable to attend polling stations, such as government employees on election duty, armed forces personnel, and certain categories of absentee voters. These votes are counted alongside EVM votes to arrive at the final result. Their inclusion is neither unusual nor problematic but a routine aspect of every election in India.

By neglecting to factor in postal ballots, The Wire has published an article riddled with inaccuracies, fueling unwarranted doubts about the integrity of the electoral process. This undermines trust in the democratic system, particularly at a time when transparency and faith in institutions are paramount.

The Election Commission of India has consistently maintained transparency in its procedures. Detailed vote count data, including postal votes, is made available to candidates and their representatives. Misinterpreting or selectively presenting this data, as seen in The Wire’s report, does a disservice to public discourse.

The Wire’s claims about vote discrepancies in Maharashtra’s Ashti and Osmanabad constituencies are demonstrably false. The “additional votes” highlighted by the publication correspond to postal ballots, a routine and transparent component of India’s electoral process.

In its eagerness to allege systemic issues, The Wire has overlooked basic facts, casting unwarranted doubt on the integrity of the elections. Responsible journalism demands accuracy, thoroughness, and a commitment to truth. The Election Commission of India deserves scrutiny, but such scrutiny must be rooted in facts, not baseless speculation and necessary action must be taken against The Wire for trying to mainstream lies.

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Hindu Makkal Katchi Women’s Wing Files Complaint Against Isaivani & Pa. Ranjith For Song Insulting Lord Ayyappa

By
The Commune
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The Hindu Makkal Katchi demands action against singer ‘Gaana’ Isaivani and director Pa Ranjith for a song disrespectful to Lord Ayyappan.

The Hindu Makkal Katchi has filed a complaint with the Chennai Police Commissioner’s Office demanding action against singer ‘Gaana’ Isaivani and director Pa Ranjith for performing a song deemed disrespectful to Hindu God Ayyappan during an event hosted by the Neelam Cultural Center.

Hindu Makkal Katchi Women’s Wing State President Sushila Devi has filed a complaint with the Chennai Police Commissioner’s Office, expressing concern over a song circulating on social media. The song, which was performed by Gaana singer Isaivani at an event organized by director Pa. Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Center, allegedly insults Lord Ayyappa and has deeply offended millions of devotees across India. Sushila Devi claims the lyrics of the song not only hurt the religious sentiments of those who venerate Ayyappa Swamy but also aim to disrupt social harmony and peace. She argues that the song is designed to stir hatred and unrest, particularly among Ayyappa devotees and women devotees, both in Tamil Nadu and throughout the country. She has urged authorities to intervene immediately by banning the song and the organisation by taking appropriate action against those responsible for spreading content that incites violence and disturbs public order.

Speaking to the press later, Sushila Devi strongly condemned Isaivani, stating, “We are severely condemning Isaivani why because she is talking in a disrespectful and offensive comments about Lord Ayyappa. The words she used are intolerable. We have never spoken ill of Christians or Muslims in the same way, I don’t know how it is fair only Hinduism is targeted. We never tell anyone not to go to church or mosque. In fact, we even revere Jesus as one of the 63 Nayanmar saints and worship him. So why is our faith being insulted? Isaivani’s comments against Lord Ayyappa are deeply disparaging. We have filed a complaint, and we expect immediate action to be taken.”

Background

At an event hosted by Pa. Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Centre in 2020, Isai Vani sang a song targeting Lord Ayyappa and questioning the faith of Ayyappan devotees, with the line, “I am sorry Ayyappa” instigating women to enter the temple of the celibate Hindu god.

The lyrics of song goes like this:

I’m sorry Ayyappa,

What’s wrong if I enter pa?

This is not the age-old times to restrain us by terrorising,

I am the granddaughter of the beard man (referring to EV Ramasamy Naicker hailed as ‘Periyar’ by his followers)

Times have changed now

If you keep us away saying ‘theetu’ (untouchable)

I’ll progress like a ‘mass’

Whether it is jeans pant or saree, I’ll decide

Whether nurse or doctor, I’ll tell for myself after I grow up

Whether I’m single or committed, it’s my decision

I’ve the courage to hit back

Whether Sports or Dappankutthu, I’ll handle it if you let me free

If you extend a dupatta, shall I spit on your rituals?

I’m sorry Ayyappa

What’s wrong if I enter pa?

What’s this new confusion?

What if we enter breaking the barriers?

If you don’t give the rights, we’ll snatch it

If we don’t snatch it, we’ll lose it

The sky is near

If we study, everything is in our pocket

What’s the secret in birth?

If they don’t open the doors, we should break it open

Should she stand feeling shy? Should she keep bindi?

Should I get trapped at the hands of a monkey after studying hard?

My life is for me, why are you sad?

Why should I give my freedom to someone else?

I should choose my life partner myself

There’s self-respect, why should I be worried?

I’m sorry Ayyappa

What’s wrong if I enter pa?

This is not the age-old times to restrain us by terrorising.

As the song circulated online, outrage grew among netizens calling for action against the singer and Pa Ranjith for disrespecting Hindu god Ayyappan and Ayyappa devotees.

Critics highlighted the disparity in how the authorities handled similar incidents, referencing actress Kasthuri Shankar’s arrest for her remarks in Hyderabad. They demanded to know if Isai Vani would face similar consequences for insulting not only Hindu gods but also the devotees observing a 48-day fast known as Vratha.

In response to the situation, a formal complaint has been lodged at the Mettupalayam police station against Isai Vani and director Pa Ranjith. The complaint, filed by Ayyappa devotees, accuses them of belittling the Hindu god and undermining traditional worship practices, as well as targeting the Neelam Cultural Center for organizing the event.

It is noteworthy that the same Isaivani has also sung in praise of Jesus Christ several times. A 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”.

Isaivani was also contestant in Bigg Boss Tamil Season 5. She was also featured on the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) ‘100 Women 2020’.

Pa. Ranjith is a rabid anti-Hindu Dravidianist filmmaker who had shot to fame using Rajinikanth by directing films like Kabali and Kaala. In Kaala, he subtly weaves anti-Hindu sentiments, portraying Hinduism and its symbols as inherently oppressive. The movie’s villains are given distinctly Hindu names, reinforcing negative stereotypes associated with the religion. In his recent flop film Thangalaan, he pedled the usual Dravidianist stereotyping of Brahmins as vile and cunning, de-Hindufying village deities, references to the Varna system, Vishnu, Buddha, Saint Ramanuja, Christianity, and Islamist tyrant Tipu Sultan.  In the film Attakathi, he even had dialogues that positioned pre-marital sex as a sort of achievement.

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Dad Not A Sanghi, But Daughter A DMK Darling? Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s Closeness To DMK’s Kanimozhi Raises Questions

By
The Commune
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Dad Not A Sanghi, But Daughter A DMK Darling? Aishwarya Rajinikanth's Closeness To DMK's Kanimozhi Raises Questions

Aishwarya Rajinikanth, who once asserted her father Rajinikanth isn’t a “Sanghi,” recently made waves at a fan meet, revealing her close bond with DMK MP Kanimozhi. During an interview, Aishwarya’s surprise entry led her to speak about their 20-year relationship, calling Kanimozhi her “temple guide” and drawing parallels between their respective fields of cinema and politics.

Rajinikanth Not A Sanghi

At the audio launch of her directorial venture Lal Salaam (which sank without a trace), Aishwarya Rajinikanth famously stated that her father was not a “Sanghi.”

She said, “People label my father as a sanghi. I want to assert here that Rajinikanth is not a sanghi. He wouldn’t have been a part of “Lal Salaam” if he were. 

After “proving” her dad is not a “Sanghi”, she recently proved she is a DMK fan, or did she?

In a fan meet programme titled Kanimozhi Ennum Naan, presented by the IBC Tamil channel, Aishwarya Rajinikanth surprised the host by appearing during the interview with DMK MP Kanimozhi.

Kanimozhi mentioned that Aishwarya was like a “sister” to her. She praised her for being affectionate and being there for her during tough times. She further said, “At a time when I asked her father not to make his political entry, she told me she wanted to join me for my campaign.”

At this point, Aishwarya enters and says, “I only go to meet her. I usually don’t go anywhere but for akka (sister) I will go anywhere.”

Aishwarya then described her 20-year-old relationship with Kanimozhi, saying, “If I am leaving my house and coming to such a place for someone, it means that they mean so much to me. This proves our relationship.”

She further described Kanimozhi’s political journey as, “From her birth, she has been in a political background. Let’s not reduce her political career to 18/20 years. We both are similar – like fish in water and fish in the ocean. For me, it is cinema, for her it is politics.”

Describing Kanimozhi as her “temple guide”, she said, “She doesn’t believe in God, but she is my temple guide. Wherever I go, it is her people who accompany me.”

 

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Thejas Foundation To Mark 10th Anniversary With Grand Vedic Celebration

By
The Commune
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Thejas Foundation To Mark 10th Anniversary With Grand Vedic Celebration

Thejas Foundation, a prominent organization dedicated to preserving Tamil and Sanskrit literary heritage, is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary on Sunday, 15 December 2024. The milestone event will feature a grand Vedic recital and cultural program, reflecting the foundation’s decade-long commitment to promoting Indian traditions and culture.

The event will include Gana Parayanam and Jata Parayanam recitals by eminent Vedic scholars, alongside a Special Ganapathi Pooja. The celebrations aim to raise awareness about climate change, improve agricultural productivity, and foster global well-being (Loga Kshemam).

Speaking about the foundation’s journey, Trustee Kizhambur S. Sankarasubramanian highlighted several key initiatives undertaken over the years. These include the documentation of over 50 rare literary works, such as Thirukkural Moolapaadam, and the organization of significant conferences on themes like Aadhi Sankara’s Shanmadham, Murugan Bhakthi Literature, and Shri Rama’s Bhakthi Literature.

The foundation has also hosted marathon talks on Thirukkural, conducted in Chennai, Trichy, and Alwarkuruchi, each lasting seven hours and attracting wide participation from academia, students, and the general public.

The Thejas Foundation has been instrumental in organizing large-scale Vel Poojas, and Ganga Poojas, and even distributed the National Flag during India’s 75th Independence Anniversary, honoring lesser-known freedom fighters’ families.

Call for Support

For the first time in its history, the foundation is seeking public donations to expand its cultural and social impact. Contributions will enable the foundation to organize more events and preserve India’s rich heritage. The donation details are as follows:

Account Name: Thejas Foundation

Account Number: 12820200107255

Bank Name: Federal Bank

Branch: Royapettah

IFSC Code: FDRL0001282

Account Type: Current Account

The foundation invites the public to participate in the event and contribute generously to its cause.

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TheCommune
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