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“Why Can’t The Govt That Sells Liquor Set Up Firecrackers Shop?” Madras High Court Questions DMK Govt’s Inconsistencies On FireCracker Shop Tender Process

By
The Commune
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Madras High Court Questions DMK Govt's Inconsistencies On FireCracker Shop Tender Process

The Madras High Court sharply criticized the DMK government in Tamil Nadu asking, “Why can’t the government that sells liquor set up a firecracker shop?” This remark was made during a recent case regarding establishing firecracker shops, highlighting concerns about the government’s inefficiency in this matter.

The court has mandated the Secretary of the Tourism Department to appear personally in contempt of court case due to violations of a ban on tendering activities for firecracker shops on Chennai Island grounds during Diwali. The Chennai Firecracker Agents Welfare Association filed the case, asserting that the court’s order had been disregarded.

The case was heard by Justice M. Dhandapani. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s attorney, Vijay Anand, argued that although the government stated on 15 October 2024, that no tender had been awarded, it had allegedly granted a tender on 14 October 2024 and received the funds on 10 October 2024. He pointed out that this information was posted on the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation’s website, asserting that the tender process had already begun.

The judge then questioned why the government had previously stated that the tender had not yet been awarded. He also raised the point, about why can’t the government that sells liquor set up a firecracker shop? In response, the counsel for the government urged the court not to blame the government without cause, arguing for a balanced approach. The judge indicated that the focus seemed to be on ensuring government revenue from private entities and subsequently ordered the Secretary of the Tourism Department and the Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to appear in court personally. The hearing regarding the contempt case was then adjourned.

(With Inputs From Kumudam)

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Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Wishes OPS & EPS On AIADMK’s 53rd Anniversary, Honors MGR And Jayalalithaa’s Legacy

By
The Commune
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Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Wishes OPS & EPS On AIADMK's 53rd Anniversary, Honors MGR And Jayalalithaa's Legacy

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader Pawan Kalyan extended greeting on the 53nd anniversary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on 17 October 2024, expressing his admiration and support for the party. In a heartfelt message, he paid tribute to AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), whom he praised as a “revolutionary leader” whose visionary policies significantly transformed Tamil Nadu, particularly for the disadvantaged.

Kalyan emphasized MGR’s commitment to enhancing the lives of ordinary people, noting how his leadership propelled Tamil Nadu to become one of India’s foremost states. He also recognized the contributions of MGR’s successor, Jayalalithaa, commending her as an exceptional leader whose efforts earned her the endearing title of “Amma.”

In his message, Kalyan extended his best wishes to Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), the current AIADMK leader, expressing hope that the party would continue to realize MGR’s vision for the state’s development and welfare. He also notably commended O. Panneerselvam (OPS) for his leadership as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, highlighting how he effectively guided the AIADMK government during and after the passing of Puratchi Thalaivi Selvi Jayalalithaa, genuinely continuing her legacy. Then highlighted the cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, acknowledging Jayalalithaa’s respect and affection for the Telugu-speaking community.

Pawan Kalyan via his official X accounts stated, “On the 53rd anniversary of@AIADMKOfficial, I extend my sincere congratulations to the party leadership, members, and supporters. Founded on 17 October 1972, by the legendary “Puratchi Thalaivar” Thiru MG Ramachandran (MGR) Avl. #AIADMK rapidly became a formidable political force in Tamil Nadu. #MGR, a leader I hold in the highest regard, was deeply committed to the upliftment of the poor, ensuring no one went hungry and that every individual had the right to live with dignity.”

“What sets MGR apart is his visionary governance. His belief in balancing welfare with development transformed Tamil Nadu into one of the country’s most prosperous states. MGR’s leadership wasn’t just about addressing immediate needs, but about laying a strong foundation for sustainable progress. His commitment to both the people’s welfare and the state’s growth remains a lasting legacy, one that continues to inspire me personally. This legacy was further cemented by “Puratchi Thalaivi” Jayalalithaa Avl, who carried forward MGR’s vision with exceptional leadership.” He added.

“Her governance not only advanced MGR’s ideals but also earned her the eternal respect of the people as “Amma.” Her efforts in fostering harmonious relations with neighboring states and her respect for the Telugu language—reminding us of Bharathiyaar’s great lines, “Sundara Telugu”—are particularly commendable. Under the able leadership of Thiru@EPSTamilNadu Avl, AIADMK continues to uphold the values and vision established by MGR. Despite challenges, the party remains a strong voice for the people of Tamil Nadu, firmly rooted in its core principles.” He further stated

“On this occasion, I also extend my warm greetings to@OfficeofOPS, who, as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, ably led the AIADMK government during and after the demise of Puratchi Thalaivi Selvi Jayalalithaa, sincerely following in her footsteps On behalf of myself and the@JanaSenaParty, I extend my best wishes to AIADMK on this momentous occasion. I wish that the party will continue its legacy of serving the people of Tamil Nadu, fulfilling MGR’s vision, meeting the aspirations of the people, and steering the state towards greater heights of development and prosperity. My respect for the Tamil language, culture, and the indomitable fighting spirit of Tamils is something I have always cherished. On this occasion, may the spirit of Thiruvalluvar bless the land of Siddhars and saints in abundance.” He further stated

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Appreciations Pour In For Tamil Film Nandhan That Shows The Plight Of TN Panchayat Presidents

By
The Commune
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Appreciations Pour In For Tamil Film Nandhan That Shows The Plight Of TN Panchayat Presidents

Nandhan, is a Tamil film that critically examines the shortcomings of the much-touted Dravidian governance model, a topic that has often been sidelined. After being initially denied a screening in Chennai, the film has now gained recognition following its release on Amazon Prime Video on 11 October 2024, coinciding with the Ayudha Puja celebrations.

Directed by Era Saravanan and featuring Sasikumar in the lead role, “Nandhan” highlights the struggles of marginalized Scheduled Caste communities in Tamil Nadu. It contrasts the ruling Dravidian parties’ promises of social justice with the harsh realities faced by these oppressed groups.

The film avoids the typical Dravidianist narrative where communists and atheists come to the aid of Scheduled Castes while ridiculing Brahmin characters. Instead, it presents a straightforward drama that authentically depicts the realities faced by these communities, immersing viewers in their experiences. As a result, Nandhan has received widespread acclaim from various sectors of society, with political figures such as PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss and BJP State secretary SG Suryah praising the film recently.

In this context, Tamil Nadu BJP State Secretary SG Suryah expressed his appreciation through a statement on his official X account, titled, “‘Nandhan’ Questions Federalism at the Centre… Autonomy in the States… Panchayat Autonomy.”

Suryah stated, “The film “Nandhan” has vividly told the problems faced by the Scheduled caste community holding Panchayat positions in Tamil Nadu, how a Dalit leader who gets the vote banks and support of the dominant castes is treated like a puppet without any symbolism or glosses.”

“The film which should have been celebrated on the screen, was chased out of the theater for highlighting the incidents and tragedies during the rule of Dravidian regimes, is the social justice of the Dravidian model government! Director Era Saravanan has not only exposed the attitude of the dictatorial, casteist Dravidian rulers, who were shouting empty slogans of federalism at the center… autonomy at state …autonomy in the panchayats but also has shamed the fake Dravidian organisation that have claimed to promote caste abolition and engaging politics for for over fifty years.” He added

“They say that state powers are taken away by the governor. But is the state government taking away the local authority? One can know about this by asking the Panchayat Council leaders of the ruling party and its alliance party. Even though there are MLA’s and MP’s, Panchayat Council Leaders are the ones who connect with the people,” was the argument put forward by voluntary organisation and Panchayat Council leaders from different areas at the Chennai Press Forum. At the end of the movie, some of the affected Panchayat Council leaders talked about these issues. In Tamil Nadu Local Government Elections, marginalized communities like Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes are denied their rights even after they have won (Panchayat, Panchayat, Municipality, Corporation).” He further added.

He pointed out,

  1. Refusal of other community members to sit in a seat allocated to Scheduled Caste.
  2. In case of a Scheduled Caste Chairman, the Vice Chairman/Executive Officer from another community holding the authority of the Chairman.
  3. Purposefully blacking out, writing in small letters, tarring the name of the scheduled caste leader in the notice board, name board of welfare work.
  4. Intimidation of Scheduled Caste leader to sign illegal projects.
  5. Preventing scheduled caste leaders from hoisting the national flag at public functions and preventing them from attending functions.
  6. Making the scheduled caste leader sit in people’s meetings and imposing the decisions of the meeting on him.
  7. Speaking derogatorily about the caste, profession and ancestors of the Scheduled Caste leader during the council meetings.
  8. Swearing, attacking and threatening to kill the Scheduled Caste leader who does not agree with the trend of the caste dominants.
  9. Making the Scheduled Caste leader, member sit on the floor.

Such actions are going on in Tamil Nadu. Director Era Saravanan has taken it to people from all walks of life through his screenplay with the movie “Nandhan”. According to police statistics, violence against scheduled castes has increased by 40% during the rule of Chief Minister Stalin, who is ruling in name social justice and Dravidian model.”

“While the above statistics are based on the registered criminal cases, this percentage will increase further if the cases that were settled without a formal case at the police station are also taken into account. The situation in Tamil Nadu is that there is no way to get due respect, rights and equality for a representative of the people who belong to the Scheduled castes elected by the Constitution of India. Complaints from various scheduled castes leaders have confirmed that social justice is just in books here. It is a great shame that the Dravidian organisation, even the progressive leftists are not ashamed to shout word for word that the Dravidian model’s achievement… and the movie “Nandhan” has questioned that. Congratulations on this thought-provoking work,” he added.

In this context, PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss also posted a message stating that, “I watched Nandhan movie directed by journalist Era Saravanan and starring actor Sasikumar on Amazon Prime. The movie Nandhan talks about the black history of social justice, that even if the law opens the gates of local bodies for Nandhans, those who oppose social justice close them. Government and society should ensure the rights of Scheduled Castes in local bodies”

The film also received praise from the chief coordinator of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), Seeman. On his official X handle, he wrote, “The film ‘Nandhan’, which is like a yam plucked from politics and life, sounds like a battle cry for social justice. For those who failed to watch ‘Nandhan’ on screen, you must watch it on Amazon Prime ODT site. As a story, as a field, as a revolutionary thought that makes you understand the current politics, the film ‘Nandan’ will surely thrill each and every one of you. #நந்தன் is a wonderful film that we all should support.”

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The Tragic State Of Valmiki Temple In Chennai That Lies Neglected

By
The Commune
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The Tragic State Of Valmiki Temple In Chennai That Lies Neglected

Valmiki Jayanthi celebrated on Ashwin Purnima, honours Maharishi Valmiki, the revered ancient poet who authored the Ramayana, one of Hinduism’s greatest epics. This year, Valmiki Jayanthi falls on 17 October 2024, bringing attention to the small yet historically significant Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, a structure whose condition has sadly deteriorated over the years.

The Life And Legacy of Maharishi Valmiki

Valmiki is celebrated as the first Sanskrit poet, often referred to as the Adi Kavi, for composing the Ramayana, a monumental epic with 24,000 verses spread across seven kandas. The Ramayana narrates the story of Prince Rama of Ayodhya, who rescues his abducted wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The epic not only exemplifies poetic mastery but also serves as a guiding text for moral and ethical values in Hindu culture.

Valmiki’s life journey is equally fascinating; he was born Ratnakar, a dacoit who encountered Narada Muni. This meeting transformed his life, as he began chanting the name “Rama” and underwent a profound spiritual awakening, eventually being renamed Valmiki after anthills (valmika) formed around him during his prolonged meditation. His later life saw him sheltering Sita in his hermitage during her exile, where she gave birth to her sons, Lava and Kusha, who would later learn the Ramayana from Valmiki himself.

If you thought he’s got nothing to do with Tamil, you’re wrong.

Valmiki is revered as one of the 18 Yoga Siddhars in Tamil Hinduism alongside figures like Bogar and is said to have participated in the first Tamil Sangam. In Tamil references, he is known as Vanmiki, with the letters “L” and “N” being interchangeable according to certain grammatical rules. Valmiki is credited with composing “Vanmikatpathinaaru,” a set of sixteen verses.

The Historic Valmiki Temple In Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai

The Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, believed to be around 1,300 years old, serves as a tribute to this great sage. Legend holds that Valmiki rested at this site after composing the Ramayana, inspiring the name “Thiru-Valmiki-Oor,” which gradually evolved into Thiruvanmiyur. Situated on East Coast Road in Valmiki Nagar, this modest temple is near the famous Marundeeswarar Shiva Temple, to which it was once connected. The region’s history reflects a strong connection with Hindu mythology and literature, as the temple and nearby areas were significant centers for spiritual activities during the Chola dynasty.

The temple itself is quite small, resembling a simple mandapam (pavilion) rather than an elaborate structure. There is also a belief that the site may serve as the Jeeva Samadhi (final resting place) of Maharishi Valmiki. The temple is now under the official supervision of the Marundeeswarar Temple, renowned for its association with Lord Shiva, who blessed the sage Agastya with medicinal knowledge.

While the Valmiki Temple may not have the grandeur of larger Hindu temples, it holds significant cultural and spiritual value. The annual Brahmotsavam festival, which takes place in March, is marked by special poojas and devotional activities, drawing worshippers from across the city. Monthly rituals on the full moon day (Pournami) further underscore the temple’s continued, albeit modest, spiritual relevance.

The Declining State Of The Valmiki Temple

Despite its historical significance, the Valmiki Temple has faced numerous challenges over the years. In recent times, the East Coast Road’s expansion has left the temple situated in the middle of the highway, putting it at risk of being removed. Protests by local communities have managed to save the temple from demolition, but its condition remains far from ideal. Decades ago, the temple was part of the Marundeeswarar Temple’s land, and the road infrastructure connecting Chennai to Pondicherry (OMR Road) had yet to be developed.

The temple has suffered from neglect, with limited renovation efforts. Once adjacent to the road, it is now engulfed by urban development, raising concerns over the preservation of Chennai’s cultural heritage. Although managed under the Marundeeswarar Temple’s supervision, the Valmiki Temple lacks adequate funding and maintenance. Its central location on a busy road further complicates preservation efforts, making it difficult for devotees to perform rituals in peace.

The Continued Legacy Of Maharishi Valmiki

The teachings and poetry of Maharishi Valmiki continue to resonate deeply within Hindu culture, inspiring festivals like Valmiki Jayanthi. In North India, the Valmiki community reveres him as a Guru, and several temples dedicated to him dot the region. While the Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur may not receive the same level of attention, its history and cultural significance remain integral to the legacy of the great sage.

As we celebrate Valmiki Jayanthi today, there is a renewed call for preserving the temple and revitalizing efforts to honor Maharishi Valmiki’s contribution to literature, spirituality, and Hinduism. It serves as a reminder of the need to protect such cultural landmarks, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations.

(With inputs from OrientalZenz,  TamilNadu Tourism Blog, India.com)

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Why Hindus Are Not Safe In Bangladesh: 20 Incidents Highlighting Recent Attacks On Durga Puja Celebrations

By
The Commune
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Why Hindus Are Not Safe In Bangladesh: 20 Incidents Highlighting Recent Attacks On Durga Puja Celebrations

Whether or not there has been a democratic rule in Bangladesh, the Hindu community in Bangladesh has always faced attacks, genocide, you name it. Given the present scenario with an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus following the ouster of former premier Sheikh Hasina, a troubling series of incidents targeting the Durga Puja celebrations occurred – a pattern of attacks, vandalism, and harassment. Here are 20 recent events that highlight the ongoing challenges and dangers faced by Hindus in the country:

1. Bomb Blast At Durga Puja Pandal In Dhaka (11 October 2024) 

During the Durga Puja celebrations in Bangladesh, an incident occurred on 11 October 2024, when petrol bombs were thrown at a pandal in Dhaka’s Tati Bazar area, causing panic and a stampede. A video shared online showed an injured person being taken to the hospital.

https://twitter.com/VHindus71/status/1844769472315343102

Authorities are investigating the incident, and legal action is being considered.

2. Slogans of “Islamic Revolution” Raised In Chittagong (9 October 2024) 

Islamic fundamentalists climbed onto the porch of a Durga Puja stage in Chittagong under the guise of singing patriotic songs, then began chanting slogans of “Islamic Revolution.” Although the administration initially downplayed the incident, six youths were later arrested after a video of the event went viral.

3. Vandalism of Idols At Durga Temple in Rajbaro (8 October 2024) 

 Unidentified miscreants stormed the Sajjankanda Modhapara Sarbojanin Durga Temple, damaging several idols of Hindu deities during the Durga Puja festival, adding to the community’s distress. This happened on the eve of Durga Puja in Rajbari town, Bangladesh. The incident occurred at the temple on Rajbari-Kushtia road, where idols of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesh, and Karthik were damaged. The temple committee, initially hesitant to report the incident, eventually informed authorities. Additional Superintendent of Police Iftekharuzzaman confirmed that efforts are underway to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face justice. The temple lacked security at the time, raising concerns about the protection of religious sites during the festivities.

4. Destruction of Idols in Barisal (4 October 2024)

At the Shyampur Deuri Bari Sarbojanin Shri Durga Temple in Barisal, several idols were vandalized. Organizers discovered that the heads and hands of three idols, including that of Durga, had been broken. They are working to repair the idols promptly to ensure uninterrupted Durga Puja celebrations. Muhammad Mustafa, Officer-in-Charge of Bakerganj Police Station’s Investigation, noted that the temple was unguarded and unlisted, facilitating the vandalism. District Puja Celebration Council President Manik Mukherjee called for an immediate investigation and justice, urging the administration to implement preventive measures against future incidents.

5. Idol Heads Smashed In Kishoreganj (3 October 2024)

Miscreants vandalized seven idols at the Durga Puja Mandap in Sri Sri Jeor Akhara, Kishoreganj, on the night of 3 October 2024. The Gopinath Sangh of Manipurghat Road organized the Puja for the first time in this arena, with guards watching until 4 AM. After they slept, vandals broke into the temple and damaged idols, including Durga, Lakshmi, Ganesha, Saraswati, and Kartika. Authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, visited the scene, and security has been increased across 363 puja pavilions in Kishoreganj. An investigation is underway, with calls for the culprits to be swiftly arrested.

6. Looting And Vandalism In Comilla (3 October 2024)

In Comilla, Bangladesh, a newly made Durga idol was vandalized, and the temple’s donation box was looted. This incident is one of several reports of idol desecration amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Durga Puja celebrations in the country under the Mohammad Yunus-led interim government.

7. Attempted Arson In Sherpur 

In Sherpur district, Bangladesh, on the night of 31 August 2024, miscreants vandalized a clay Durga idol inside a temple near the Meghalaya border. The attackers broke the lock, entered the temple, and damaged the idol. They also attempted to burn the idol by sprinkling petrol, but the fire did not ignite. Local police and army personnel arrived at the scene after the incident, but no arrests were made yet.

8. Destruction Of Under-Construction Idols In Pabna (2 October 2024)

In Pabna’s Sujanagar, Bangladesh, three under-construction Durga idols at Palpara Durga Mandir were found vandalized, with their hands and heads damaged. The incident likely occurred overnight, prompting local authorities to increase security ahead of the Durga Puja festival. Law enforcement, including police, Rab, and army personnel, visited the site and an investigation is underway, although no formal complaint has been filed yet. This is the second vandalism incident in the area, following a similar event in Nishipara. Local committees have been formed to monitor the situation and ensure security for the upcoming festival.

9. Multiple Idol Attacks In Rishipara (1 October 2024)

In Sujanagar, Pabna, two incidents of vandalism targeting Durga idols occurred within four days, raising concerns ahead of the Durga Puja celebrations. On one night, four idols, including the Durga idol, were damaged at Rishipara Barowari Puja Mandap, and on the night a few days later, five idols were vandalized at Manikdi Palpara Barowari Puja Mandap. The idols were nearing completion, with only painting left when the heads of the idols were found broken. Following these incidents, security measures were heightened, and the Officer-in-Charge of Sujanagar Police Station was transferred. 

10. Forced Removal Of Puja Pandal In Uttara (27 September 2024)

In Uttara, a suburb of Dhaka, the Hindu community faced obstruction in organizing Durga Puja celebrations due to opposition from radical Islamist groups. A week prior, human chains were formed by local worshippers and madrasa students in Sectors 11 and 13 to protest against the festivities. Tensions rose, leading to a meeting between the army, police, and local Hindu and Muslim leaders. Last year, Durga Puja was held in a field in Sector 11, but this year, permission was denied, and similar issues occurred in Sector 13. Consequently, the Hindu community had to change the festival’s venue.

11. Idol Vandalism In Mymensingh (25 September 2024)

On 25 September 2024, Yasin Mia, a 22-year-old man, vandalized idols of Goddess Durga and other deities at Gobinda Jeor temple in Gouripur, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. The idols were being prepared for the upcoming Durga Puja festival. Mia entered the temple in the early hours, destroyed the idols, and was spotted by local woman Dolly Rani, who raised the alarm. Two locals, Akhil Chandra Bishwasharma and Bipul Ghosh, apprehended Mia, and he was arrested by the police the next day. Mia’s mother claims he is mentally challenged. The desecration has shocked the local Hindu community ahead of Durga Puja.

12. Extortion Threats In Khulna (22 September 2024)

Hindus in Khulna have been asked to pay 5 lakh Bangladeshi taka (nearly, INR 3,50,726) to celebrate Durga Puja. Hindus will be beheaded, according to the letter received in the mail, if they reveal this to the government or the media. It further stated that the recipient’s fate would be similar to what transpired with Hanif’s project if the money was not paid. Awami League Joint General Secretary Mahbub Ul Alam Hanif’s house was plundered for multiple days after Sheikh Hasina’s government fell.

13. Government Restrictions Ahead of Durga Puja (10 September 2024)  

 The Bangladesh Home Ministry issued orders instructing Hindu communities to halt Durga Puja rituals and stop using sound systems five minutes before the azaan and namaz, curtailing religious expression. This directive has sparked backlash, with many criticizing it as a “Talibani” order. During a meeting with Puja leaders, Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury emphasized maintaining law and order and discouraging cross-border travel for Puja. He assured security for the Hindu community during the festival and announced that volunteers from any Bangladeshi community would help secure the 32,666 Puja mandaps. 

14. Flood-Related Idol Vandalism In Kaligram (28 August 2024)

In Rajshahi’s Bagha, an 18-year-old madrasa student, Rabbi Hossain, was arrested for vandalizing three temples in Pakuria and Kaligram on Friday morning. He was caught by locals while breaking the idol at the Kaligram Pundaripara temple and handed over to the police. Rabbi admitted acting alone, claiming that a video on his sister’s phone, showing floodwater from India affecting Bangladesh, had disturbed him, prompting the attacks. A case was filed against him, and he was sent to jail.

15. Islamic Radicals Take To Streets – Won’t Allow Durga Puja

Radical Islamic groups in Bangladesh issued threats to the minority Hindu community, urging them not to openly celebrate Durga Puja and opposing nationwide holidays for the festival. They have also demanded that Hindus refrain from protesting their actions. Members of the Hindu minority claim that the Bangladeshi government has failed to take action against these radical groups, which have intensified their attacks since the fall of the previous Sheikh Hasina-led administration.

16. Crown Donated By PM Modi Stolen (10 October 2024)

A gold-plated crown offered to Goddess Kali was stolen from a temple on the afternoon of 10 October 2024, as reported by local media. The theft was discovered by cleaning staff who entered the temple after the priest left around 2 p.m., according to The Daily Star. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the Jeshoreshwari Temple on 27 March 2021, during Bangladesh’s ‘Golden Jubilee of Independence’ and the birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka is coordinating with local authorities, urging a thorough investigation to recover the stolen crown and hold the perpetrators accountable. The thief has been arrested.

17.  Goddess Durga idol vandalised On Ashtami Day

After the idol of Goddess Durga was vandalized by extremists at Ganpara Bishwas Bari Sarbojanin Durga Mandir, a Hindu priest conducted the Durga Ashtami puja using a banner of the Goddess in place of the idol. 

18. Islamist Caught When attempting To Vandalise Durga Puja Idol In Raozan (8 October 2024)

On 8 October 2024, around 2 AM at the Sarbojanin Shri Shri Durga Temple in Palpara, Raozan, Chittagong, Hindus caught an islamist red-handed while he was attempting to vandalize the idol.

19. Islamists Vandalize Idols In Rangpur (8 October 2024)

Around 4:30 am on the night of 8 October 2024 in Putimari, Gangachara, Rangpur, an attempt was made to vandalize the idol. Local Hindus caught one of the perpetrators red-handed. After being confronted and dealt with by the locals, he was handed over to the police. There were two attackers, but the other managed to escape.

20. Islamists Vandalise Puja Idols In Chapainawabganj (6 October 2024)

Unfinished murtis for Durga Puja broken at Maa Bhavani Durga & Kali Mata Temple in Bhat Tala Hat, Chapainawabganj on 6 October 2024.

These incidents, ranging from vandalism and bomb attacks to government restrictions, underscore the hostility and challenges Hindus face in Bangladesh, particularly during significant cultural and religious celebrations.

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From Tech Guru To Scammer: YouTuber A2D Nanda Kumar Involvement In Grey Market Software Keys Exposed; Had Virtue Signaled Followers About Scams

By
The Commune
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YouTuber A2D Nanda Kumar Involvement In Grey Market Software Keys Exposed

Popular Tamil tech YouTuber, Nanda Kumar, known as “PC Doctor,” is facing backlash after being exposed for promoting illegitimate software keys. The influencer, revered for his budget-friendly tech solutions, allegedly built a “piracy empire” by advertising grey market keys through his own company.

Illegal Windows Keys

In an era where technology reigns supreme, piracy has emerged as a formidable threat, undermining legitimate businesses and siphoning off their hard-earned revenues. Despite stringent laws governments implement worldwide, the reality is stark: a simple computer center can offer Windows keys for a fraction of their true cost, leaving many to wonder how such practices persist.

Recently, a well-known Tamil YouTuber, “Nanda Kumar”, known online as PC Doctor, faced a scandalous exposé for promoting illegitimate software keys. Celebrated for his expertise in tech exploration and PC building, Nanda Kumar’s credibility took a massive hit when he got exposed by another techie “The Jason Samuel”. The investigation was to dig deeper into the suspiciously low prices of the software keys that was advertised. To everyone’s shock, it was uncovered that the very company promoting these deals traced back to Nanda himself. The irony of the situation was striking, Nanda had previously criticized other social media influencers for engaging in similar scams, virtuous in his condemnation while knowingly participating in the very practices he had denounced.

Nanda Kumar & his Illegitimate Piracy Empire

Nanda Kumar, known for his YouTube channel “A2D Channel,” built his reputation on engaging content that includes PC building, tech reviews, and sharing affordable alternatives for the tech-savvy public. With a staggering 1.77 million followers, he became a go-to source for budget-friendly tech solutions, even showcasing impressive feats like running GTA V on Tamil Nadu government laptops and self-repairing iPhones. His popularity grew as he frequently schooled other social media influencers on the pitfalls of scams, often using sarcasm to highlight their missteps.

However, as his channel evolved, Nanda began to focus more on the social dynamics within the influencer community, aligning himself with certain factions and critiques. This shift in focus raised eyebrows among his followers, especially when he continued to expose scams, even as he promoted his own questionable partnerships.

The façade of legitimacy came crashing down when it was uncovered that Nanda was linked to the very scams he condemned. In every video, Nanda had been promoting a grey site “cdkeylabs.com,” a site offering software keys at drastically reduced prices—₹1,000 to ₹1,500 compared to the legitimate ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 from Microsoft.

So, Jason Samuel, determined to uncover the truth, decided to purchase a key from the grey site cdkeylabs.com, which had been heavily promoted by Nanda Kumar. During the checkout process, he noticed the name “Gopinath Sekar” associated with the transaction. Upon doing a background check of this name, it was discovered that it belonged to a business manager at “Nuke Technologies Pvt Ltd.”

Intrigued, he delved deeper into Nuke Technologies and found that it was co-directed by none other than Annamalai Nanda Kumar and Vigneshwara Karthikeyan. Further investigation revealed that the registered address for the company matched that of A2D Channel’s operational address, confirming that Nanda Kumar, the celebrated PC Doctor influencer, was indeed behind the very business promoting these questionable software keys.

What struck as particularly alarming was that Nanda Kumar never disclosed his involvement with Nuke Technologies on any of his social media profiles. Despite being a director, he maintained an air of separation from the company, further complicating the trust issues surrounding his online persona.

When Jason Samuel reached out to Nanda Kumar for comment, seeking clarification on whether he was a reseller or if cdkeylabs.com was indeed a grey market site, Nanda acknowledged that it was, in fact, an operated site. Nanda Kumar said, “You may ask why I was not concerned of this right? It’s why because as were cooperating for 6 years I never thought like this… I was okay with me as we were doing for 6 years do you understand? I let to my team to handle it. However, now I think I shouldn’t have done like this.” 

Later, Nanda admitted that by promoting such grey market sites, he received a lower commission, which ultimately led him to enter the business himself a shocking revelation. Nanda Kumar said, “Let me explain how this evolved from CD key offers to CD Key Labs. First of all, CDKey offers was the long-term sponsor for us. After some time, the amount paid from the sponsor was very low. We asked them the amount provided was low and to increase it, but they denied as they had fewer orders since only PayPal payments were accepted. When we suggested paying via Indian payment methods, they offered us saying, ‘Better we start together a Indian website in that we will provide you with a commission. You create a website, and we shall share the revenue’. This is how it happened.”

What His Followers Feel About This?

One of them on Reddit noted, “Such a hypocrite this guy is. Doesn’t have the balls to admit his mistake publicly!”

Another said, “I was very disappointed with Nanda after watching the video. He holds no integrity, from starting a company called Nuke Technologies to resell licenses under cdkeylabs to blatantly say I don’t overlook the operations. All just to increase his sales commission.”

Another said, “I only came to know about A2D becuase of the Tamil Tech incident. I tried watching some videos later, but I found that MF kinda snobby. So, I stopped, his “tech” content are not really that great imo just a disgracing knock off of LTT. What i’m really frustrated is when he was advising to all while secretly doing all this low key stuff. He needs to be canceled. But we have too much tolerance here; he’ll just drop an apology video and continue his nonsense.”

Another said, “How can he do this kind of thing and preach the opposite to others in video. Uruttu this, uruttu that, after saying all that he did a big urutu! All for views!”

Another said, “Saw the video. Up until now I thought the cdkey site was legit and now I see this is a grey site and Microsoft has already warned reselling keys are not authorised. Guess next video la victim card play Pannuvan and his cult soldiers will believe it. Damn!!! Dont know whom to trust”

A conversation unfolded with one netizen saying, “Will this impact their PC factory customers and profits? Most likely, he used those pirated keys to install the OS on all the PCs he’s built so far.” Another replied, “Absolutely, A2D definitely used those pirated keys. I hope the buyers step up and demand legitimate ones. They can’t just get away with this!”

Scammer Who Lectured Others on Avoiding Scams

While Nanda Kumar was scamming people by selling illegitimate black Windows keys through his grey site, he was simultaneously lecturing others on the importance of avoiding scams. He positioned himself as a moral authority, condemning unethical practices while secretly engaging in them himself. This hypocrisy highlights the deep irony of his actions—he preached integrity and caution, all while profiting from the very scams he claimed to denounce.

This revelation not only tarnished Nanda’s reputation but also underscored the pervasive issue of piracy within the tech community, prompting followers to reevaluate their trust in influencers in this rapidly changing digital landscape. How can we navigate this murky terrain, and what measures can be implemented to hold those who exploit it accountable?

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J&K: Probe Against NC MLA For Not Standing For National Anthem During CM’s Swearing-In

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The Commune
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J&K: Probe Against NC MLA For Not Standing For National Anthem During CM's Swearing-In

J&K administration on Thursday ordered a probe against a National Conference (NC) MLA for not standing in respect for the national anthem during Wednesday’s swearing-in ceremony of Omar Abdullah as the Chief Minister.

Official sources here said that the J&K administration has ordered a probe against Hilal Akbar Lone, NC MLA from Sonawari Assembly constituency in Bandipora district for not standing up when the national anthem was played during the swearing-in ceremony of Omar Abdullah and his Council of Ministers.

Sources said that during the oath-taking ceremony at Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) on Wednesday, some attendees were not seen standing when the national anthem was played. Lone was one of them.

“To ascertain the veracity of the report, the CCTV footage of the event was also scanned. On being questioned, Lone said that he did not get up because of a medical condition,” sources said adding that just a couple of hours before the ceremony, Lone was seen standing and giving interviews to press.

“The entire footage of the event will be scanned to find out who all didn’t stand up during the national anthem,” sources confirmed. Omar Abdullah was administered the oath of office and secrecy by the J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha.

Five MLAs including Surinder Choudhary, Sakina Itoo, Javaid Ahmad Rana, Javaid Ahmad Dar and Satish Sharma were sworn in as ministers in the Omar Abdullah-headed Council of Ministers. Omar Abdullah later announced that he is deputing Surinder Choudhary as the Deputy Chief Minister to give proper representation to Jammu division as he had promised before forming the government.

Omar Abdullah has taken over as the 14th Chief Minister of J&K, having served previously full six-year term from 2009 to 2015 as the Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. On Wednesday, he chaired a meeting of all the Secretaries of the UT administration at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar.

Omar posted on his X on Thursday, “I’ll be travelling to Warwan, Kishtwar today to meet the families whose lives have been turned upside down by this devastating fire.”

Over 70 houses were destroyed in a devastating fire in the Warwan area of Kishtwar district. Locals and officials of civil administration engaged in dousing the flames literally with their bare hands during the blaze because in the remote area where the blaze occurred, there is no fire and emergency service station in vicinity.

–IANS

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Telangana’s Muthyalamma Temple Vandalised By Islamist Allegedly Inspired By Radical Preacher Zakir Naik, Allegedly A Repeat Offender

By
The Commune
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Telangana's Muthyalamma Temple Vandalised By Islamist Allegedly Inspired By Radical Preacher Zakir Naik

In the wake of the Muthyalamma temple vandalism in Secunderabad, allegations have emerged linking the perpetrator to Zakir Naik and hardline Islamist groups. The attack, which occurred early on October 14, 2024, has ignited protests and communal tension in the area. Locals, enraged by the desecration of the Goddess Durga idol, apprehended the suspect, who is in critical condition following a mob assault.

Islamist Attacks Muthyalamma temple

Secunderabad, Telangana, witnessed unrest after an incident of temple vandalism early on Monday morning, 14 October 2024. The desecration occurred at the Muthyalamma temple in Kummariguda, triggering widespread outrage and protests by locals, as well as prompting a political and communal outcry.

The incident unfolded around 4:35 AM when a man from another faith allegedly entered the temple premises near the Regional Passport Office and damaged the idol of the temple deity, Goddess Durga. A local resident, who was out for his morning walk, noticed suspicious activity at the temple and raised the alarm after spotting the vandalism.

Locals quickly gathered at the site and apprehended the suspect. They dragged the man out onto the road and beat him up before handing him over to the police. Videos circulating online show the angry mob pinning him to the ground, raining blows on him and kicking him until he fell unconscious.

It is alleged that the Islamist who vandalized the Muthyalamma temple was a follower of Zakir Naik and other hardline Islamists. The accused was also said to be involved in similar incidents in Mumbai in 2022 where he entered a Ganesh pandal wearing footwear and even attacked locals.

The suspect was later taken to a city hospital, where he is said to be in critical condition. Additionally, there are allegations that he was passed off as a “mentally unstable person” by various media and machinery. 

The police arrived shortly after raising the alarm and took the man into custody. He was later identified as being in his mid-30s, with reports suggesting he had migrated to the city from Maharashtra only a few days before the incident. The mob assault critically injured the man and is currently undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a city hospital, where his condition remains critical.

Following the incident, the authorities intensified security around the temple to prevent further unrest and maintain law and order. A case was registered at the Market Police Station based on a complaint filed by a resident, Chelmela Kiran Kumar, aged 33. The FIR charges include trespassing, breaking, obstructing public servants from carrying out their duties, fabricating evidence, offending religious sentiments, and culpable homicide.

The investigation focuses on determining the motive behind the vandalism and whether others were involved. The police are actively questioning witnesses, reviewing CCTV footage, and analyzing evidence to gain more insights into the circumstances leading to the act of desecration.

The vandalism of the temple idol sparked widespread outrage among locals and worshippers, who gathered at the site in large numbers to protest the incident. The demonstration saw an influx of devotees and residents from various parts of Hyderabad, who demanded immediate and stringent action against those responsible for the sacrilege.

Authorities deployed additional police personnel to manage the crowd and quell rising tensions. Despite these efforts, the incident stirred anger within the community, with many expressing frustration over what they perceived as a failure to protect places of worship from acts of desecration.

Meanwhile, the Secunderabad police confirmed that they were closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to prevent any escalation. The investigation remains ongoing, focusing on uncovering the exact motive behind the temple desecration and ensuring those involved face legal consequences.

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400 Crore India-Manufactured Vaccines Distributed Worldwide Last Year: Health Secy

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The Commune
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400 Crore India-Manufactured Vaccines Distributed Worldwide Last Year: Health Secy

India manufactured 400 cr vaccines in the last one year — half of the total vaccines developed and distributed globally, said Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava. Addressing the annual India Leadership Summit 2024, organised by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Srivastava said that India has emerged as a global leader in pharmaceuticals.

The country is the third-largest producer and a key supplier of generic medicines. The Health Secretary said that India manufactured half of all vaccines that were distributed across the globe. “In the last one year alone, of the 800 crore vaccine doses manufactured and distributed across the world, 400 crore doses were manufactured in India,” she noted. Srivastava added that besides supporting healthcare systems worldwide, India has also made a notable contribution to the US healthcare system.

“India has the highest number — 25 per cent of the total number — of US FDA-approved pharmaceutical plants outside of the US,” she said. The country also leads in vaccine production, with a significant share of global manufacturing, underscoring its role as the “pharmacy of the world”, she said. Further, she noted that India has reformed medical education to ensure a robust healthcare system. The reforms include the replacement of outdated regulatory frameworks with the National Medical Commission Act and related laws.

This has not only led to a significant increase in medical and nursing college numbers and enrollment but has also addressed disparities in healthcare professional availability. This is because of continuous efforts by the government which has progressively improved the quality, scale, and cost-effectiveness of healthcare in India, Srivastava said.

“It is a testament to our expanded healthcare services that the out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE), which is borne entirely by the households, has declined by 25 percentage points as a share of total health expenditure between 2013-2014 and 2021-2022,” she said.

-IANS

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Meta Lays Off Employees Across Teams At WhatsApp, Instagram And More

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The Commune
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Facebook India’s Net Profit Up 43% To ₹505 Crore In FY24
Image Source: Munsif Daily

Social media giant Meta has laid off employees across multiple teams, including at WhatsApp and Instagram, as part of an apparent restructuring exercise, reports said on Thursday. Meta did not immediately comment on how many employees were impacted in the latest round of job cuts. In a statement to TechCrunch, the company confirmed layoffs hit multiple teams.

“A few teams at Meta are making changes to ensure resources are aligned with their long-term strategic goals and location strategy,” a Meta spokesperson said. “This includes moving some teams to different locations and moving some employees to different roles. In situations like this when a role is eliminated, we work hard to find other opportunities for impacted employees,” the spokesperson added.

Employees working on Reality Labs, Instagram and WhatsApp were affected by the layoffs, according to reports. Several Meta employees took to social media platforms to announce they have been laid off. Jane Manchun Wong, who was part of the Threads team, posted: “I’m still trying to process this but I’m informed that my role at Meta has been impacted. Thank you to everyone, especially my Threads and Instagram teammates, for my wild journey at Meta”.

“If anyone is interested in working together esp on software/security engineering, please reach out via my email, LinkedIn, etc noted on my personal website,” she wrote on Threads. Earlier this year, Meta laid off employees at its Reality Labs division. The social media company run by Mark Zuckerberg first laid off 11,000 employees in 2022.

In 2023, Meta laid off another 10,000 employees and withdrew 5,000 open roles it had yet to fill as part of CEO Zuckerberg’s “year of efficiency”.

-IANS

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