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Supreme Court Orders Interim Release of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, Questions DMK Govt’s Preventive Detention Rationale

By
The Commune
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The Supreme Court on Thursday (18 July 2024) ordered the interim release of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, who has been detained under the Goondas Act by the Tamil Nadu Police since May 2024. The bench, comprising Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, scrutinized the legitimacy of Shankar’s detention, raising concerns about the approach taken by the Madras High Court in handling the case [A Kamala v State of Tamil Nadu and Ors].

According to the report by Bar & Bench, the bench expressed its doubts regarding the necessity of Shankar’s detention. Justice Dhulia and Justice Amanullah remarked that the Madras High Court seemed to have taken “the matter of his liberty casually.” This observation was pivotal in the decision to release Shankar on an interim basis while the High Court continues to deliberate on the petition challenging his preventive detention.

The Supreme Court’s order emphasized the urgency of the case, noting that preventive detention matters require prompt attention. “We also request for an expedited hearing considering that it is a preventive detention matter,” the bench stated. This directive underscores the Court’s recognition of the significant implications of preventive detention on individual liberty.

The Court noted that all involved parties, including the State, had agreed to bring the matter before the High Court on the upcoming Monday. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the High Court addresses the petition without further delay, providing clarity on the legality of Shankar’s detention.

In a previous hearing, the Supreme Court had questioned Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing the Tamil Nadu government, about the grounds for detaining Shankar. The Court highlighted the limited number of cases cited against Shankar, including one involving a reporter based in Delhi, far from Tamil Nadu. The bench inquired, “You tell me you have mentioned only two cases. Some reporter who has filed a case against him is not even in that state but in Delhi. He mentions a particular case which is also not very good to our mind. How can he be put in detention? Is he a threat to national security of this country?”

This line of questioning reflects the Court’s skepticism regarding the justification for Shankar’s detention, suggesting that the evidence presented might not warrant such severe measures.

The Supreme Court’s decision to release Shankar on an interim basis is a significant development in this case, highlighting the judicial system’s role in safeguarding individual rights against potential misuse of preventive detention laws. The forthcoming hearing in the Madras High Court will be closely watched as it addresses the broader implications of this case on personal liberty and state power.

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Republican Leader Harmeet Dhillon Who Sang Ardaas For Donald Trump Is A Khalistani Sympathizer

By
The Commune
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Following the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, Republican Party leader Harmeet Dhillon recited an “ardaas” for Trump at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in his presence.

After reciting the ardaas, she said, “We recite the Ardas prayer before any new endeavour, giving thanks to God and asking for his protection and help to uphold the values of humility, truth, courage, service, and justice for all.”

“Dear Waheguru, our one true God, we thank you for creating America as a unique heaven on this Earth, where all people are free to worship according to their faith. We seek your blessings and guidance for our beloved country. Please bless our people with wisdom as they vote for the upcoming election and please bless with humility, honesty, skill, and integrity all those who conduct the election,” she further added.

Dhillon, a Khalistani sympathiser, received flak from Christian supremacists in the US for reciting this prayer.

Dhillon, on 17 July 2024, shared the meaning of the ardaas prayer on her X handle. She wrote, “This is a translation of the ardaas prayer I offered last night at the RNC Convention. Sikhism is a monotheistic faith—we believe in one God, the same God other monotheistic faiths worship. I am deeply touched & grateful for the thousands of positive messages I have received.”

Khalistani Sympathiser

It is noteworthy that Dhillon had welcomed the condemnation of the “extrajudicial” murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Here are some of the remarks she made on her X handle over the months.

She also claimed that Indian “death squads” were targeting diaspora Sikhs and quoted some secret memo.

She repeatedly used the phrase death squad to point out India’s alleged hand in the killings of terrorists outside of the country.

 

She further claimed the Modi government was “assassinating India’s critics in the diaspora. Full service!”

She also peddled the leftist narrative of lack of freedom of speech in India, quoting a US report.

Minorities In The USA vs Majority Hindus In India

All said and done, it is noteworthy that in the United States, politicians from minority faiths, such as Harmeet Dhillon or Vivek Ramaswamy, often make efforts to assure the majority that they share common beliefs, sometimes even converting to the majority religion like Nikki Haley and Bobby Jindal.

Conversely, in India, the majority Hindu population is often seen seeking validation from so-called minority groups, who steadfastly assert the superiority of their faith and denounce idol worship. Additionally, it is the Hindus who have been patiently fighting their temple-related battles in court while these alleged minority groups refuse to work out an amicable solution and return these sacred temples to the majority.

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Madurai Bench Supports Ervadi’s Traditional Muharram Practices, Rejects ‘Talibanic’ Restrictions

By
The Commune
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The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court permitted the observance of Muharram ceremonies in Ervadi, Ramanathapuram district, in accordance with traditional practices, including music, processions, and other rituals. Emphasizing the supremacy of fundamental rights over extremist elements, the court underscored that individuals have the right to conduct these ceremonies as per their customs.

The court’s decision came in response to a petition by Thameem Sindha Madar, seeking protection against interference in their customary Muharram observance. The petition faced opposition from adherents of Thowheed Jamath, who objected to the manner of celebration. Thameem Sindha Madar had sought intervention from the Madras High Court after the Tamil Nadu authorities denied permission for their customary Muharram observance involving drums and music, due to objections raised by the radical faction.

In Ervadi town, Tirunelveli, Sufi Muslim devotees have long carried out Muharram processions featuring drum beats and music, such as the Santhanakoodu procession and Kuthirai Pancha. This year, they encountered opposition from a radical faction within the Muslim community, which opposed the inclusion of drums and music in the Muharram observance. Thowheed Jamath, the opposing group, argued that musical elements in the Muharram procession could lead to moral corruption among devotees and insisted on practicing Islam in a purist form devoid of such rituals.

Despite the Muslim group’s appeals to district and state authorities, they were advised against including music in the Muharram procession to prevent potential law and order issues, effectively yielding to the restrictions imposed by Thowheed Jamath on the traditional practices of other Muslims in the region.

Justice G.R. Swaminathan affirmed that the petitioners had an inherent right, guaranteed by Articles 25, 19(1)(b), and 19(1)(d) of the Constitution, to observe Muharram in their traditional manner. The court noted the diversity within religious beliefs and practices, rejecting the imposition of singular interpretations.

Highlighting the historical significance of the Hasan and Husain Dargha in Ervadi and the enduring tradition of Muharram observance, the court recognized drum beats as integral to local religious and social events. It affirmed the petitioners’ entitlement to conduct their religious processions without interference.

The court further stated that Thowheed Jamath did not possess the authority to dictate the conduct of ceremonies by the petitioner’s group or obstruct their religious processions. It emphasized the administration’s duty to protect fundamental rights and to prevent any interference with their exercise.

The court asserted, “This right has been exercised by the petitioner’s forefathers over centuries. It is not open to Thowheed Jamath to dictate to the petitioner’s group as to how they should conduct the festival.” The court emphasized that “religious beliefs and practices cannot be reduced to singular categories; perceptions are inevitably diverse.”

The court asserted that Thowheed Jamath lacked the authority to obstruct the petitioner’s group from conducting a religious procession. It argued that religion takes on various hues depending on individual experiences, noting that the people of Ervadi embrace music, drum beats, and traditional processions involving horses and chariots. Therefore, expecting them to adhere strictly to practices akin to those in Saudi Arabia would be akin to adopting a “Talibanic outlook.”

Critically, the court rebuked the District Administration for capitulating to threats from extremist factions. It condemned the administration for choosing the “easy and lazy” route of banning the exercise of rights under the pretext of maintaining law and order, which it deemed as an act of helplessness.

Emphasizing that the right to religious procession is safeguarded under Article 19 and can be defended against Thowheed Jamath, the court mandated that the District Administration must take all necessary actions to protect this right.

Consequently, the court granted the writ petition, specifying, “The Thowheed group has the right to adhere to their own beliefs… If members of Thowheed Jamath object to the Santhanakoodu procession or Kuthirai Pancha, they may choose not to participate and remain indoors.”

(With inputs from LawBeat)

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TN BJP Criticizes DMK Government Over Electricity Tariff Hike, Invokes Karunanidhi’s Words From 2014, “Who Is Responsible For Inflation In TN?”

By
The Commune
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The Tamil Nadu BJP has criticized the current DMK government in Tamil Nadu by invoking the words of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi, MK Stalin’s father, who once criticized former CM J Jayalalitha for the rise in general commodity prices in the state. Since the DMK assumed power in Tamil Nadu, within three years, the government has repeatedly raised property taxes, electricity tariffs, drinking water fees, milk prices, and bond registration fees, significantly burdening the public with these increased charges.

In a statement from its official X account, the Tamil Nadu BJP queried, “At the drop of the hat, the chief minister @mkstalin proudly says that he is the son of the Kalaignar! Do you have the guts to answer this fair question of your father?” Referring to a statement made by MK Stalin’s father as opposition leader on 14 March 2014, the BJP quoted, “If the central government is responsible for price hikes, then who is responsible for the increase in milk prices, bus fares, and electricity bills in Tamil Nadu?”

This has sparked a significant debate among netizens, particularly following recent criticisms from the opposition regarding the increase in electricity bills in Tamil Nadu. Netizens criticized the government, drawing comparisons with the ‘Gujarat Model‘ under BJP rule, which is the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi where the power tariffs are comparatively less.

Effective 1 July 2024, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) has approved a 2.18% hike in electricity tariffs for consumers based on the multi-year tariff order. This adjustment, aligned with the consumer price index, is scaled to 2.18% from a potential 4.7% increase to consider consumer welfare. Notably, this increase for households is entirely covered by the government’s electricity subsidy.

Last year, the TNERC also limited the tariff hike to 2.18%, although it could have been raised by up to 5%. TANGEDCO’s financial losses have escalated significantly, from ₹18,954 crore in FY12 to ₹94,312 crore over the past decade. Consequently, TANGEDCO has been compelled to secure loans from financial institutions and banks due to previous non-commitments, contrasting with the current government’s full absorption commitment from 2021-22. The loan amount has tripled over the last decade, soaring from ₹43,493 crore in FY12 to ₹1,59,823 crore in FY22. This has led to a 259% increase in net interest on loans, rising from ₹4,588 crore in FY12 to ₹16,511 crore in FY21.

The press release also highlighted that the government has been implementing minor annual tariff hikes to minimize consumer impact. According to the Union Ministry of Power guidelines, annual electricity tariff revisions are mandatory to avail central government funds under the Strengthening of Distribution System (RDSS) scheme.

The tariff hike has drawn criticism from opposition party leaders. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami and BJP State President Annamalai have condemned the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government for the increase in power tariffs.

Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president Annamalai condemned the price hike and also urged the DMK government to withdraw the tariff hike, shift to monthly billing, and move to solar energy to reduce the burden on the public. He wrote on his official X handle, “Within three years of coming to power, the DMK government has increased property tax, electricity charges, drinking water charges, milk prices, and bond registration fees many times and burdened the public with the increase in charges. Shocked. The DMK government purchased electricity worth ₹65,000 crore in the last fiscal year 2023-2024 alone. In three years of coming to power, without taking any measures to increase power generation, the cost of this electricity has been borne by the public. While many states have taken steps to increase solar power generation across the country, the DMK has spent around ₹5,400 crore per month to purchase electricity. If we continue to increase the amount of electricity purchased without increasing the production of electricity, it will lead to repeated increases in electricity tariffs. DMK’s Dravidian model of government is a stupid model without even this basic administrative knowledge. When he was in the opposition, Chief Minister Mr. @mkstalin, who released a video talking about shocking electricity charges, is now giving shocks to the public. He came to power with an election promise that if he did come to power, monthly electricity bills would be calculated, and after three years have passed, he has not implemented it. Without the practice of paying monthly electricity bills, people are already paying 50% more electricity bills. They said that they would install smart meters in the houses and calculate the monthly electricity bill, but now they have shelved the plan to install smart meters. In this situation, for DMK’s administrative failure, how is it fair to impose a fare hike on the public? I urge on behalf of @BJP4Tamilnadu that the DMK, which is victimizing the public for their administrative incompetence, should immediately withdraw this electricity tariff hike and take measures to increase electricity generation including solar power generation and implement the monthly electricity tariff procedure immediately across Tamil Nadu.”

LoP Edappadi Palanisami took to his official X handle and wrote, “My strong condemnation to the DMK government which has increased the electricity tariff again in Tamil Nadu! By waiting for the parliamentary elections and the Vikravandi by-elections to end, the DMK Chief Minister has gifted the people of Tamil Nadu with a shock. DMK Chief Minister. What pleasure does this Vidya government have in beating people’s stomachs? “I will do what I say – I will do what I don’t say,” said Mr.@mkstalin. They have not fulfilled any of their promises including the electricity bill once a month; You are only increasing the electricity tariffs without telling! It is unfair to put the burden of your administrative incompetence on the people! It has become a habit of the DMK government to torture the people. Without the basic capacity to provide uninterrupted power, I strongly condemn the DMK government for repeatedly increasing the electricity tariff. I urge the DMK Chief Minister to immediately roll back the increase in electricity tariff which is a huge burden on the people.”

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US Embassy In India Announces Programme Featuring Divisive YouTuber ‘The DeshBhakt’ Akash Banerjee, Had Earlier Engaged With RJ Sayema; New Modus Operandi To Subvert Indian Politics?

By
The Commune
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A post from the official handles of the US Embassy in India caused quite a stir in social media circles. The reason: they made an announcement about a programme titled “Influence to Impact“. The post read, “Are you a social media influencer or a content creator curious about impactful content that drives real change? Here’s your chance to learn from the best! Join us at American Center New Delhi for “Influence to Impact” with @TheDeshBhakt Akash Banerjee.”

The post also had a registration link which was not working when we tried to register. The event is expected to be held on 25 July 2024 between 6 and 8 PM at the American Center New Delhi.

Who Is “Deshbhakt” Akash Banerjee?

YouTuber Akash Banerjee runs a channel on the platform titled The Deshbhakt. His only claim to fame is peddling false narratives and disseminating fake news to his followers.

On EC

In March 2024, he peddled half-truths about the Election Commission. We debunked his false narratives here.

He made allegations of bias among the recent Election Commissioners when historical figures such as TN Seshan and MS Gill, both former CECs, had political affiliations, joining Congress post-tenure. Navin Chawla, another CEC, was also associated with Congress, a fact supported by instances of alleged partiality.

He also made allegations of unfair appointments of ECs and CECs wherein, historically, 20 out of 25 CECs were appointed by Congress Prime Ministers. The established process and criteria for appointing ECs and CECs are transparent and governed by constitutional provisions. The assertion overlooks that the President’s appointment of commissioners has always been based on government recommendations, with senior commissioners traditionally becoming CECs.

He made allegations of interference in EC appointments by the government but forgot the fact that the present law involves the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Cabinet Minister, ensuring broader political representation. Previously, appointments did not involve opposition input, which has now been included. He also alleged that the electoral bonds were a scam.

On Gyanvapi Temple

He also made elaborate videos to spread lies and further the leftist narrative surrounding the Gyanvapi temple in Kashi.

He first claimed that the history of Gyanvapi was complicated with differing views on what existed before the mosque when in reality, historical records and archaeological evidence strongly support that a Hindu temple, specifically the Kashi Vishwanath temple, existed at the site before the mosque was built during Aurangzeb’s rule.

He portrayed Hindu beliefs and historical facts about the Kashi Vishwanath temple as mere assumptions or popular beliefs when there was substantial historical documentation and scholarly consensus affirming the temple’s existence before its destruction by Aurangzeb.

Banerjee claimed that the structure near the mosque could have been a Deen-e-Ilahi center, representing Akbar’s synthetic religion when there is no credible historical evidence to support this claim, which diverts from the established fact of the site’s significance to Hindu worship.

He also went on to blame Hindu organizations for escalating tensions and altering worship practices at the site.

He even went on to assert that historical narratives, such as temples being built on Buddhist structures, are equivalent to the mosque-temple disputes.

Silent On Modi Govt Positives

Banerjee was among those who used the “Vishwaguru” jibe against PM Modi and India who went on mute when India used its power to ensure Navy veterans returned home safely from Qatar.

Banerjee posted a video in October 2023 where he said, “8 Indian Navy Veterans just got the death sentence in #Qatar. Govt KNEW about this case for the last one year & yet couldn’t get relief. How did our relations with a once friendly nation go SO BAD & our diplomatic might so ineffective beyond soundbytes?” He deleted this post and made the said video private!

He then came up with a follow-up video where if one reads between the lines, it is not necessarily that he praised the Modi government for the diplomatic victory. He blamed the Nupur Sharma episode and India’s relations with Israel for the strained relationship with Qatar! 

It is noteworthy that the US Embassy in India had nominated divisive figures like RJ Sayema in the past as their “Equality Ambassador“

 

 

RJ Sayema is a very well-known RJ for Radio Mirchi who indulges heavily in mocking Hindu festivals/rituals, and practices and speaking anti-national words. Sayema, a Muslim herself, who has never been seen wearing a Hijab, did not consider the Hijab regressive and did not open her mouth to support the triple talaq abolition by the Modi government. Instead, we went on and on about women’s empowerment giving sermons on her social media handles. In fact, she calls wearing hijab, a choice.

 

 

 

Sayema is known to post defending Islamist fundamentalists. During the CAA “protests“, RJ Sayema, along with urban naxals like Swara Bhaskar and The Wire journo Arfa Khanum, was accused of inciting people instead of promoting calm, contributing to the unrest that led to the deaths of 60 people in the Delhi riots.

It is perplexing why the US Embassy in India will choose to engage with anti-national and divisive “influencer” in the name of creating impact regarding “Active citizenship”. Critics argue whether this a sign of “active interference” in Indian affairs and meddling with the politics of the land?

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“Justice Chandru Has Taken A New Avatar As DMK’s Policy Outreach Secretary”, TN BJP President Annamalai Slams Former Judge Chandru

By
The Commune
-

Tamil Nadu BJP president Annamalai has criticized former judge Chandru for his remarks against the BJP, suggesting he should officially join the DMK if he wants to engage in politics. He accused Chandru of participating in government committees for self-interest and imposing DMK ideologies through committee reports on student communities.

This criticism was sparked by Chandru’s recent comments at a book fair in Hosur, where he criticized the Annamalai report without apparently reading it. Chandru claimed to have conducted extensive research for a government-commissioned education report, which he handed over to Chief Minister Stalin. However, he lamented that the report’s content remained undisclosed and criticized opposition leaders for dismissing it without review. Further remarked that fascists historically fear an educated society. He drew parallels to the burning of libraries in Germany during the 1930s and similar incidents in Eelam, emphasizing that fascists fear an enlightened public and the knowledge found in books.

In response to criticism, Annamalai, via his official X account, issued a detailed rebuttal to former judge Chandru, highlighting that the recommendations were met with public opposition, including from various parties and social organizations, including the BJP specifically, objections to proposals such as integrating Kallar Reform and Adi Dravidian Welfare department schools into the Department of School Education without adequate research into the educational needs and progress of these communities over the years. He also criticized suggestions like denying senior positions to community teachers and ridiculed humorous recommendations like organizing students into groups based on the first letter of their names, Social Justice Student Groups, and viewing these as undue interference in the duties of school principals and teachers.

Annamalai further contested recommendations that appeared to restrict Hindu students from wearing Vibhuthi, Kungumam, and sacred threads, calling it symbolic religious suppression orchestrated by the DMK. He also criticized proposals to hold student elections in schools, arguing that this would politicize educational institutions unnecessarily. Regarding Chandru’s remarks about libraries and morality, Annamalai highlighted initiatives by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to restore and support libraries in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, emphasizing the BJP’s commitment to culture and education.

Annamalai concluded by urging Chandru not to lecture on issues of morality and culture, particularly as a member of committees under the DMK government, which he accused of prioritizing liquor sales over societal values. He reiterated that the BJP’s opposition was aimed at the government’s policies affecting Tamil Nadu’s student community, not Chandru personally. He also challenged Chandru’s impartiality in his report, accusing it of being politically motivated and aimed at undermining traditional cultural values. In essence, Annamalai’s response aimed to clarify the BJP’s stance against the imposition of DMK’s ideologies on educational institutions in Tamil Nadu.

Annamalai in his X account stated, “Unable to tolerate the objections to his statement, Justice Mr. Chandru has taken a new avatar as DMK’s Policy Outreach Secretary. He should at least realize that if DMK’s policies are given as a manifesto, there will be protests and criticism from the public.”

The statement read, “Last 12th August 2023 on behalf of Govt in Tamil Nadu to avoid violence arising out of caste and ethnic sentiments among school and college students and to create harmony, a one-man panel headed by former Justice Chandru was set up. The committee’s report was presented to Chief Minister Stalin and details of its recommendations were released to the media. Many of the recommendations made in the report were unacceptable to the public. Sow diversity among the student community. Therefore, various parties and social organizations, including the BJP, had registered their opposition to certain aspects of the report. On behalf of the Tamil Nadu BJP, on 19th June, in a press conference, we spoke about the unacceptable recommendations in this report.”

“Specifically, a recommendation to bring Kallar Reform and Adi Dravidian Welfare department schools under the Department of School Education. How can this recommendation be accepted without any research findings on the education of students from these communities or their social progress over the years? One more suggestion is that the community teachers, who are the majority in their respective areas, are denied senior positions in those schools,” he queried.

“Why has this doubt not arisen on the faculty members for so many years since the time of the great leader Kamaraj, the golden age of education, why is it coming now? Humorous suggestions include seating students by first letter of name, to form something called a Social Justice Student Group. How can we accept that the ruling party’s committee interferes with all the work that school principals and class teachers have to do?” He further queried.

“The recommendation of that preventing only Hindu Students from keeping Vibhuthi, Kungumam on their foreheads, and sacred thread tying on the hands will be seen as the symbolic destruction of religion and whatever other reason is given, it is DMK’s drama.“ He added.

“Recommendation of conducting student elections is dangerous in schools, Is it not enough that the DMK and other parties have ruined the student society entering the college elections? Do you want to sacrifice school students too for your political gain? That is why in our executive committee meeting held last 6th July, we had passed a censure resolution against This ex-judge Chandru’s report, which wants to destroy our country’s culture and identity of our society,“ He added.

“It seems that Chandru is upset by this. Speaking about this report at a function recently, he talked about libraries and morality and asked what the BJP knows about these. It was the government led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, who opened a special section for Indian books in the Jaffna library that had been burnt down and made arrangements to provide 16,000 books. In the same Jaffna, it was Prime Minister Modi’s government that set up a cultural center at a cost of about 11 million US dollars,” he further wrote.

“I first request Chandru not to lecture us about library, morality, and culture, who is part of a committee of DMK government which keeps TASMAC shops open from street to street. Ever since the DMK came to power, it seems that former judge Chandru, who has been a member of several committees such as one-man committee, other group committee, could not accept the opposition to his report,“ he further stated.

“Chandru, the protest here is only against the report of the committee set up by the government to affect the student community across Tamil Nadu, not against the serial or the novel written by you. It is the Tamil Nadu Government who has to answer that, not Chandru as an individual. The first question of Chandru’s report should have been why such caste divisions did not exist on a large scale among the student community before the DMK came to power. But he must have been an impartial person to pose that question. Your political position and the purpose of this report are clear when you mention the word saffronization in Recommendation No. 19 (C) of the report,“ he further added.

“Chandru sir, you have forgotten that your mission was complete when you submitted the report. In a democracy, it is the job of a responsible opposition to support and oppose the government’s public policies. We are opposing the imposition of DMK’s policies on the student community. If there is a desire to talk politics, Chandru can officially join the DMK. Instead of that, sitting in the committees formed by the government for self-interest, and imposing DMK’s ideologies on the student community in the name of committee report, with the tax money of the people, I am sure that there will be opposition to it,” he concluded.

Justice Chandru’s committee was formed as the result of the disturbing Nanguneri incident in Tirunelveli district where two Scheduled Caste students were attacked by students from an intermediate caste on the night of 9 August 2023.

The Committee & Its Recommendations

To prevent such caste-based violence, the government set up a one-man committee. Retired Madras High Court judge Justice K. Chandru submitted the report to CM Stalin and recommended “significant” changes to eliminate caste indicators in Tamil Nadu schools. The recommendations include banning coloured sacred wrist threads, rings, and forehead marks – tilak that signify caste, and removing caste-related names from schools. Point 8B states, “Students should be prohibited from wearing any coloured wristbands, rings, or forehead marks (Tilaka). They must also refrain from coming to school on bicycles painted with reference to their caste or exhibiting any caste-related sentiments. Failure to comply with these rules must result in appropriate action being taken, in addition to advising their parents or guardians.”

Some of the other recommendations include:

  • The report advises that students must not display any caste-related sentiments, including using bicycles marked with caste references. Non-compliance should result in appropriate actions and parental advisement.
  • State-run schools should remove terms like ‘Kallar Reclamation’ and ‘Adi Dravidar Welfare’ from their names. Private schools should be requested to drop caste appellations, with legal action considered for non-compliance, potentially through legislative changes.
  • The committee also recommends that student attendance registers omit any caste-related details. Teachers should avoid calling students by their caste or making derogatory remarks linked to caste.
  • To enforce these changes, the report suggests amending the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975, to prevent societies intending to start educational institutions from using caste-based names.
  • The report also calls for new legislation to promote social inclusion and eradicate caste discrimination, imposing responsibilities on students, staff, and school management, with mechanisms for supervision and penalties for non-compliance.

Additionally, the committee proposes enhancing local bodies’ control over primary education, granting block-level administrations full authority over schools, including staffing decisions. The state government should handle curriculum guidelines, standards, and board exams while formulating new laws to empower local bodies and amend the Tamil Nadu Panchayat Act of 1994 for a more community-focused education system.

This removal of caste names, hiding/”protecting” caste names, and prohibiting wearing Tilak and sacred wrist threads is akin to the Dravidian model of making Hindus remove their caste/surnames. The Dravidian ideologues enforced this removal of a person’s surname as a means to “abolish/eradicate” caste. Ironically, despite having succeeded in removing surnames as a mode of eradicating caste differences, incidents like Nanguneri continue day in and day out.

Critics see this move as a method to divide the Hindus further based on caste and also ensure that Hindus lose their identities forever. Instead of creating awareness and empathy in children about various castes and fostering harmony, recommending such drastic and Hinduphobic measures will only lead to dividing the society further and deepening the Dravidianist ideologies in the minds of the people and destroying society.

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Tamil Nadu Hikes Electricity Tariffs By 4.83%, Surpassing Gujarat Rates Despite Dravidianist Claims

By
The Commune
-

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) has announced a 4.83% hike in electricity tariffs for all consumers, effective from 1 July 2024. This increase, based on consumer price inflation (CPI), affects both energy and fixed charges.

For domestic consumers, the new tariff order introduces changes across various consumption slabs. For instance, the cost per unit under the minimum slab of 400 units bi-monthly will rise from ₹4.60 to ₹4.80. For the 401-500 units slab, the price will increase from ₹6.15 to ₹6.45 per unit; for 501-600 units, from ₹8.15 to ₹8.55; for 601-800 units, from ₹9.20 to ₹9.65; for 801-1000 units, from ₹10.20 to ₹10.70; and for usage above 1,000 units, the cost will rise from ₹11.25 to ₹11.80 per unit. Consequently, a consumer using 500 units will now pay ₹2,565 bi-monthly, up from ₹2,455.

The hike also affects common facilities in multi-storey apartments, public lighting, water supply, sewage, places of worship, cottage, and micro industries, private educational institutions and hostels, industries, and IT services. Specifically, for multi-storey apartments (LT tariff category 1E), the rate increases from ₹8.15 to ₹8.55 per unit, with fixed charges rising from ₹102 to ₹107 per kilowatt per month.

This tariff hike comes amid claims from Dravidianist groups that electricity charges in Gujarat are higher than those in Tamil Nadu.

 

However, a comparison of electricity rates between the two states debunks this myth:

  • For 600 units, the electricity bill in Tamil Nadu is ₹2,940, whereas in Gujarat it is ₹2,745.
  • For 800 units, Tamil Nadu consumers pay ₹4,870, compared to ₹3,755 in Gujarat.
  • For 1,000 units, the bill in Tamil Nadu amounts to ₹7,010, while in Gujarat it is ₹4,765.
Source: GERC

Gujarat’s Residential General Purpose (RGP) tariff, applicable to all services in residential premises, also shows lower fixed and energy charges. For non-BPL consumers, the fixed charges are Rs. 25 per month for single-phase supply and Rs. 65 per month for three-phase supply. Energy charges vary from 320 paise per unit for the first 50 units to 505 paise per unit for consumption above 250 units. BPL consumers enjoy even lower rates, with the first 50 units charged at 150 paise per unit.

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Unmasking The Campaign Against Isha Foundation: Debunking Myths & Allegations Peddled By Dravidianist Media

By
The Commune
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The Isha Foundation in Tamil Nadu has consistently faced attacks from Dravidianists and Periyarists who view the foundation as a threat to their pseudo-atheism, which opposes only Hinduism. Their ongoing mission is to tarnish the reputation of the Isha Foundation. They devise strategic plots to damage its image, leveraging their favored news media for a ‘Hit and Run’ job, followed by deliberate silence. The Dravidian media in Tamil Nadu refrains from follow-ups that do not align with their agenda.

This orchestrated effort aims to create a perception among the public that Isha is at fault. However, there is always another side to the story. Despite all allegations, every accusation against the Isha Foundation has been proven false in a court of law.

Myth#1 – Crematorium Case

The all-famous The News Minute (TNM), sympathetic to the Dravidianist and Periyarist cause, peddled misinformation that an FIR had been lodged against the Isha Yoga Foundation in Coimbatore, following a complaint from the Thanthai Periyar Dravida Kazhagam (TPDK). Allegedly, TPDK activists were attacked on 15 June 2024 while visiting an allegedly illegally constructed crematorium at Boluvampatti village, attributed to Isha Yoga.

TNM strategically presented one side of the story, portraying the Isha Foundation negatively that TPDK’s general secretary informed police that their vehicle was stopped and its window broken by individuals associated with Isha Yoga. However, the dispute between TPDK and the Isha Yoga center stemmed from TPDK activists visiting without official sanction, claiming to be a ‘Fact-Finding Committee’. A scuffle ensued, following which TPDK tactically filed an FIR at Alandurai police station, playing the victim. Rather than stopping there, TNM promoted TPDK almost as if it were a tribal activist group, highlighting allegations against the Isha Foundation that had already been refuted.

The Tamil “journal” Nakheeran presented a narrative from Periyarists and Dravidianists suggesting that there are ample crematoriums in the vicinity, implying that Isha Foundation’s construction of one is arbitrary and linked to mysterious deaths.

The truth of the matter concerning the crematorium is that the area is predominantly inhabited by Scheduled Tribes. These villages lack adequate cremation facilities, with the nearest crematorium located 20 km away. In response to local requests, the Isha Yoga Centre initiated construction of a modern electric crematorium to serve these villages. In fact, residents from six villages near the Poondi hills, including several Scheduled Tribes communities, petitioned the Coimbatore District Collector to take action against those spreading rumors about the upcoming Isha crematorium. They clarified that the construction was a response to their genuine need for closer cremation facilities, dispelling misinformation spread by a few individuals.

Earlier, Subramanian, identified as a Dravidianist, filed a case against the crematorium in the Madras High Court. During the court proceedings, the Madras High Court directed the Pollution Control Board to inspect the electric crematorium and provide a detailed report. On 14 June 2024, members of the TPDK, posing as a ‘Fact-Finding Committee‘, attempted to enter the Isha premises. This action led to a confrontational situation between the administrators and TPDK members. It’s worth noting that the Coimbatore District Court had already issued an order prohibiting unauthorized individuals from accessing the construction site of the electric crematorium.

The Madras High Court has intervened to halt the Alandurai police in Coimbatore district from concluding their investigation into a criminal intimidation case involving C.R. Dinesh Raja, an administrator at the Isha Yoga Centre and directed the registration of a case and the submission of an investigation report against members of  TPDK. Justice G Jayachandran provided temporary relief by issuing an order to restrain any final report until further notice, scheduling a returnable date for 21 August 2024. The judge expressed skepticism regarding the complaint, noting its lack of specific details about the alleged offence and questioned the authority under which they attempted to enter the Isha premises.

Interestingly, neither TNM nor other Dravidianist media outlets, which previously portrayed the Isha Yoga Foundation in a negative light, reported on these court proceedings. These cases effectively discredited the false allegations made by the TPDK, which sought to present itself as a victim. It is evident that their agenda primarily targets Hinduism rather than any genuine tribal or environmental activism.

Myth#2 – The Elephant Corridor & Isha Mahashivaratri Ban

The Isha Foundation itself clarified that, In the affidavits submitted by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department to the National Green Tribunal’s Southern Zone, Chennai, there is no mention that Isha is situated within an elephant corridor. Similarly, the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, in its counter affidavit, does not indicate that Isha falls within an elephant corridor. Additionally, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), in response to an RTI query, did not include Isha or its vicinity in the list of elephant corridors in Tamil Nadu. The Gajah Report by the Elephant Task Force and the document ‘Right Of Passage – Elephant Corridors of India’ by the Wildlife Trust of India also do not identify the area where Isha is located as an elephant corridor. Eminent scientists specializing in elephant conservation have explicitly stated that the Isha Foundation is not situated near an elephant corridor.

Every year as Mahashivaratri approaches, there are cases filed against the Isha Yoga Center for organizing the celebration. Various groups aligned with Periyarist and Dravidian ideologies seek to ban the event, often making headlines in Tamil media, claiming that the festivities could disturb animals in the nearby hilly areas. However, after the initial uproar, these claims typically fade into silence.

Regarding the Vetriselvan case at the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal, the court allowed the Isha Foundation to conduct its Mahashivaratri festival, provided it obtained the necessary permissions from the district administration, police, and forest department. The case was filed due to concerns that the foundation had been built on encroached land and that the festival could disturb an elephant corridor, potentially leading to human-wildlife conflict.

In its ruling, the Tribunal noted, “The Regional Chief Conservator of Forests confirmed that there is no encroachment by the Isha Foundation in the forest area. Although the area is not designated as an elephant corridor, restrictions have been imposed due to the passage of elephants in that region. The Tribunal directed the removal of certain structures erected during the Maha Shivaratri function and mandated the maintenance of a green belt to mitigate noise pollution.” The Tribunal also acknowledged that matters concerning encroachment are pending before the High Court and refrained from making decisions on those issues. It instructed the Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board to ensure that noise levels during the event comply with permissible limits.

Throughout this process, the Isha Foundation has consistently denied any violation of environmental laws and has repeatedly rejected claims that it is located within an elephant corridor. The Tribunal’s order explicitly stated that no incidents of human-wildlife conflict have been reported during the Maha Shivaratri festival, and it affirmed that the Isha Yoga Centre is not situated within an elephant corridor.

Even the recently concluded Mahashivaratri festival organized by the Isha Foundation faced legal challenges, some Dravidianists sought a ban through the High Court. The DMK-owned Sun News promptly highlighted this as breaking news, but the festival proceeded as planned. Shouldn’t the media’s responsibility be to also cover why the celebration was allowed to continue? Despite this, media sympathetic to the Dravidianist cause continues to allege that the Isha Yoga Center is situated within an elephant corridor.

Myth#3 – Brainwashing Volunteers

Several allegations were leveled against the Isha Foundation, including one highlighted by Dravidianist groups regarding a case filed by a retired professor. He accused the Center of brainwashing his two daughters into becoming sanyasins, leading to a Habeas Corpus petition in the Madras High Court. This narrative gained traction in Dravidianist media outlets but was ultimately debunked by the Madras High Court itself through a fact-finding process.

The Division Bench of Justices S. Nagamuthu and V. Bharathidasan dismissed the plea after reviewing the report of the Principal District Judge (PDJ), who had visited the Isha Yoga Center and interviewed Maa Mathi and Maa Maayu on August 10. The court’s order in H.C.P.No.1656 of 2016 highlighted that the PDJ’s report “categorically mentioned that there is no truth in the allegation, and that the individuals are staying at the Foundation voluntarily.”

In their ruling, the bench refuted the baseless allegations against the foundation, stating, “We are satisfied that the individuals are staying in the Isha Foundation on their own volition following a path of Sanyasin which they like. Therefore, no relief as prayed for in this petition can be granted… As a result, this Habeas Corpus Petition is dismissed”

The Isha Foundation expressed gratitude to the Madras High Court for affirming the truth and putting an end to misinformation spread by detractors against them.

Furthermore, the foundation clarified that all accusations of captivity, brainwashing, or coercion into sanyas or brahmacharya are entirely false. It emphasized that the establishment aims to promote human wellbeing, and the volunteers, numbering over 3 million worldwide, participate willingly. Approximately 1500 full-time volunteers, including brahmacharis and married individuals, reside at the Isha Yoga Center by their own choice and can leave freely anytime.

Specifically addressing the case of Maa Mathi (34) and Maa Maayu (31), who have been at the ashram for seven years and chose brahmacharya five years ago, the foundation reiterated that their decision was entirely voluntary and reflects their spiritual path. Brahmacharya, seen as a sacred commitment in Isha, is not imposed but carefully considered by applicants through introspection and self-assessment. The foundation emphasized that the idea of forcing brahmacharya on anyone is against their principles, and acceptance into this path is based on personal commitment, integrity, and sincere aspiration.

Myth#4 – Missing Volunteers Case

Another accusation is the volunteers were mysteriously missing but this too was busted. The Tamil Nadu police announced on 18 April 2024 that they had cleared Isha Foundation of any wrongdoing regarding the disappearance of six volunteers from its yoga center at the base of Velliangiri in Coimbatore district. They stated that most of the missing volunteers had returned, having left the center for personal reasons.

This announcement came during proceedings before Justices MS Ramesh and Sunder Mohan, who were overseeing a habeas corpus petition filed by C Thirumalai of Kulasekarapatti in Tirunelveli district, concerning his missing brother C Ganesan since March 2023.

According to the petitioner, Ganesan was serving as a volunteer at the yoga center. He received a call from the center on 2 March 2024, inquiring about Ganesan’s whereabouts, which alerted him to his brother’s disappearance. The center’s administrator, Dinesh, filed a complaint with the Alandurai police on 5 March 2024, leading to a missing person case being registered. As Ganesan remained untraceable, Thirumalai filed the habeas corpus petition.

During the hearing, Additional Public Prosecutor E Raj Thilak informed the court that 36 individuals, including employees and volunteers at the Isha Yoga Center, had been questioned. However, more time was requested to compile a comprehensive status report.

Responding to queries about other missing volunteers mentioned in previous hearings, the prosecutor stated that while five more volunteers were initially reported missing, most had since returned to the center, attributing their absence to personal reasons.  The Madras High Court cautioned that if the petitioner, who lodged the lawsuit concerning his brother’s disappearance, fails to attend the hearing, the case will be dismissed. Notably, neither the petitioner nor his attorney were present during the hearing, as observed by the bench. Consequently, the judges took note of the submissions made in their absence and instructed the High Court registry to schedule the case for 7 June 2024, with the designation “For Dismissal,” emphasizing that it would represent the final opportunity for the petitioner to appear.

Myth#5 – Isha’s Samskriti Case

Vetriselvan, who had previously pushed for a ban on the Isha Yoga Mahashivaratri celebration, also sought to restrict Isha schools that teach Vedic knowledge and traditional Indian martial arts like Kalari. However, the Madras High Court dismissed a petition filed by lawyer M. Vetriselvan, which sought an interim injunction to prevent an Isha school from admitting children aged six to eight and teaching Veda and other subjects. The court criticized Vetriselvan’s petition, stating it attempted to constrain educational diversity.

The First Bench, comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice M. M. Sundresh, observed that India has various educational systems, noting the historical method where children learned under scholars, and later the adoption of boarding schools influenced by English education. The court emphasized that today, multiple forms of education exist and it is inappropriate for any individual to impose a singular model. The bench dismissed the application, viewing it as having potential ulterior motives.

The case stemmed from Vetriselvan’s original PIL concerning the Isha Foundation’s activities in the Vellingiri foothills of Coimbatore, specifically focusing on Isha Samskriti, a school for children aged 6 to 18, housed in what he termed an ‘unapproved’ building. He alleged violations of Constitutional Articles 14 and 21, and criticized the School and Elementary Education departments for purportedly neglecting their duties. Vetriselvan claimed that the foundation did not adhere to Tamil Nadu government standards for education, thereby depriving children of their right to free and compulsory education from ages 6 to 14.

It is to be noted, the Isha Samskriti program represents a unique amalgamation of Yogic practices, traditional Indian arts like Bharatanatyam and Classical Music, and martial arts such as Kalaripayattu, rooted in Dhanurveda, aimed at fostering physical and mental balance and stability in children. These ancient art forms, far from being mere entertainment or hobbies, have served as profound spiritual practices for millennia. The program also emphasizes Samskrit, a language renowned for its spiritual depth, as a significant component of the curriculum. Alongside this, children study English and basic Mathematics.

In an environment characterized by dedication, discipline, and focused learning, every aspect of the children’s daily lives is meticulously designed to nurture their inner potential. Starting around ages 7 to 8, they undergo a comprehensive, life-oriented education that continues until they reach 18. Through this holistic approach, children evolve into dynamic, competent, and committed individuals poised to positively impact the world around them.

In conclusion, the Isha Foundation has faced persistent and unfounded attacks from Periyarist and Dravidianist groups, who have repeatedly defamed it with fabricated narratives and false allegations. Despite courts consistently debunking these claims as baseless, these efforts continue unabated. The biased portrayal by sympathetic media in Tamil Nadu, which often presents only half-truths, remains a troubling reality.

Interestingly, Karunya University, designated as a Christian minority institution, has not been subjected to similar levels of litigation and allegations by these groups. Environmentalists have pointed out that the institutions face similar issues regarding violations and lack of approvals. For instance, Karunya University, sprawling over 800 acres, is located in an elephant corridor that includes wetlands and numerous water sources of the River Noyyal.

(With inputs from Einstein & Agathiyar)

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Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Acknowledges Financial Irregularity In Maharishi Valmiki ST Development Corporation

By
The Commune
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On 15 July 2024, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah acknowledged a financial irregularity amounting to ₹89.6 crore within the Karnataka Maharishi Valmiki ST Development Corporation, which contrasted with the opposition’s assertion of ₹187 crore. This admission occurred during a contentious debate initiated by BJP’s Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka in the legislative assembly.

Siddaramaiah intervened during Ashoka’s opening remarks to refute allegations connecting former ST minister B Nagendra to electoral funding fraud, specifically denying any admissions regarding funds for Ballari LS elections as claimed by the BJP and Ashoka.

The debate grew heated as the ED’s arguments in legal proceedings were discussed. Ashoka accused unidentified entities of orchestrating the scam covertly, lamenting the death of accountant Chandrashekar and labeling him a “martyr” who allegedly succumbed under pressure to manipulate funds.

Amidst calls from BJP for a CBI inquiry due to concerns over perceived bias of state police and suspicions of a government cover-up, Ashoka stressed the importance of transparency given the gravity of the allegations.

The debate in the assembly was tumultuous, marked by repeated adjournments due to objections from Congress members who argued that ongoing probes by the CBI, ED, and SIT should prevent discussion. Congress members also attempted to delay proceedings, leading council chairman Basavaraj Horatti to consult advocate general Shashi Shetty. After deliberation, Horatti allowed discussion on the condition that no individuals linked to the case were named during the proceedings.

Previously, the principal accused in the ST fund scandal reportedly purchased a pre-owned Lamborghini from a Hyderabad dealership, using ₹3.3 crore diverted from funds designated for the development of Scheduled Tribes in Karnataka. However, this extravagant purchase was short-lived. Law enforcement swiftly tracked the money, located the car, seized it, and returned it to the dealer. They also recovered the misappropriated ₹3.3 crore.

Satyanarayana Varma, 36, was apprehended by the SIT in Hyderabad on 13th June. During the operation, authorities seized ₹8.2 crore linked to the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki ST Development Corporation Ltd.

Varma claimed that the Lamborghini had cost him ₹3.3 crore. Following his arrest in Hyderabad, Varma was brought to Bengaluru for further questioning by the SIT. He allegedly admitted to the purchase during interrogation. SIT officials verified this by contacting the dealership, though they did not disclose specifics such as the model of the vehicle involved.

Separately, the Congress government in Karnataka faced fresh allegations on Monday as the BJP raised concerns about a ₹120 crore scandal related to rice procurement for the state’s ‘Anna Bhagya’ programme. BJP’s N Ravikumar highlighted significant irregularities under the scheme, pointing out differing purchase prices where the Food and Civil Supplies Department procured rice at ₹34.6 per kg for Anna Bhagya, while the School Education Department paid ₹29.3 per kg for midday meals. In defense, Food Minister KH Muniyappa justified the price disparity, emphasizing the quality of rice distributed under Anna Bhagya.

(With Inputs From TOI)

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Dravidian Model: TNPSC Calls Freedom Fighter Vanchinathan As ‘Accused’ In Ashe Murder Case In Group-1 Exam

By
The Commune
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The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) is facing strong criticism for portraying Tamil Nadu freedom fighter Vanchinathan as a criminal in the assassination case of Robert Ashe during India’s struggle for independence, which is seen as aligning with colonial British perspectives.

In the recently concluded Group 1 examination held on 13 July 2024, TNPSC included a question that states, “Who was the first accused in Ashe murder’s case?.” This question has offended many individuals and sparked criticism of the TNPSC on the internet and social media.

In response, the Hindu Munani has issued a statement condemning the incident and calling for an apology, stating, “A question asked in the recently held TNPSC Group Examination question paper has shaken the mind of every Indian citizen. Freedom fighter #Vaanchinathon who shot the brutal collector #Ashe who enslaved this country and killed many people.”

“It is the TNPSC examination board that has questioned Indian freedom fighter Vanjinathan in the question paper as a murderer! Don’t denigrate the sacrifice of a hero who died for our nation like this! Don’t spread hatred among the younger generation! Tamil Nadu government should immediately apologize for this… @TNPSC_Office @CMOTamilnadu @mkstalin,” Further added.

Another netizen shared his displeasure stating, “Vanjinathan guilty in TNPSC GROUP 1 question, Not only the eyes..! The whole body is disturbed! This is what happens when traitors are in power?”

Another netizen criticized the ruling government for such question in the exams

Who is Vanchinathan?

The Communemag published an in-depth history of Vanchinathan, revealing his true story and dispelling myths about Dravidian movements in the article titled, “Veera Vanchinathan: The Hero Who Turned Ashe To Ashes, Unmasking The Falsehood Peddled By Dravidian Gangs.”

Vanchinathan is celebrated as an Indian independence activist who gained prominence by assassinating Robert Ashe, the district collector of Tirunelveli on 17 June 1911, at Maniyachchi railway station. Ashe was known for suppressing independence movements and ordering violent crackdowns.

Vanchinathan targeted Robert William Escourt d’Ashe because Ashe was instrumental in the arrest of V.O.Chidambaranar Pillai (V.O.C) and in dismantling the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company founded by V.O.C. Ashe, an ICS officer serving as collector of Tinnevely district (now Tirunelveli), earned the ire of many young nationalists who turned to vigilantism against British authorities. Vanchinathan’s act of assassinating Ashe symbolized their commitment to complete independence (Poorna Swaraj) from British rule.

Part of the Bharatha Matha Association, a group of revolutionary youth planning actions against British colonial rule, Vanchinathan aimed to send a direct message to King George V, who had permitted the use of cowhide in military equipment. By assassinating Ashe, the top British bureaucrat in the area, Vanchinathan intended to communicate their resolve to challenge imperial authority.

Vanchinathan, after killing Robert Ashe, took his own life while attempting to evade capture. The assassination marked a significant moment in the South Indian independence movement, fueling the revolutionary spirit against British domination.

Dravidianists Derogating Vanchinathan

In recent years, a new narrative has emerged surrounding the assassination of Collector Ashe. Dravidianists have begun projecting Ashe as a “crusader of social justice” and painting Vanchinathan as a casteist Brahmin. They claim that Vanchinatha Iyer was provoked by Ashe’s wife, Mary Lillian Patterson, who assisted a pregnant outcast woman in need of immediate medical treatment to pass through the agraharam. According to this claim, Vanchinathan killed Ashe to protect the Brahminical establishment. However, there is no evidence to prove the occurrence of this incident.

However this narrative has been busted as there is no conclusive evidence to prove the occurrence of this incident.

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