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Tamil Nadu Police Arrests YouTuber Felix Gerald For Allegedly “Instigating” ‘Savukku’ Shankar To Make Defamatory Remarks Against Police

The Tamil Nadu police apprehended Felix Gerald, the editor of the Red Pix YouTube Channel, in Delhi for allegedly instigating Savukku Shankar to make defamatory remarks against female police officers.

Gerald had traveled to Delhi to meet with the Chairman of the Press Council of India to present a petition. The cybercrime unit in Coimbatore had issued summons for Gerald to appear before them on 10 May 2024, following Shankar’s arrest.

Recently, the Madras High Court, while considering Gerald’s plea for anticipatory bail, remarked that he likely played a pivotal role as the primary instigator “First Accused” in the Savukku Shankar case by encouraging Shankar to make disparaging comments about female police personnel.

Furthermore, the Madras High Court, through Justice K Kumaresh Babu, granted the police a week to respond to Gerald’s anticipatory bail request in a case registered under the TN Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, stemming from the interview with Savukku Shankar. Justice Babu expressed concern over the proliferation of YouTube channels, labeling them as troublesome, and urged the government to begin regulating their activities. Additionally, the judge emphasized that individuals conducting interviews, like Felix Gerald, should be treated as primary offenders A1 in such situations, as they often goad interviewees into making derogatory and objectionable statements.

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Kollywood Director And Drug Lord Jaffer Sadiq’s Bestie Ameer Questions ‘Puratchi Thalaivar’ Title Give To MGR

According to Kollywood Dravidianist director and drug lord Jaffer Sadiq’s bestie Ameer Sultan, the title of “Puratchi Thalaivar” given to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and phenomenal leader Dr. MG Ramachandra is questionable.

“Is it right to call MGR a revolutionary leader?”, he said in a press conference questioning the characterization of MGR, which has ignited controversy and faced widespread criticism and condemnation on social media.

Moon Pictures producer, Adam Bawa, is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time with his upcoming film, ‘Uyir Thamizhukku’. The movie stars Ameer, Chandini, Iman Annachi, director Raj Kapoor, and others, with music composed by Vidyasagar.

The press conference for ‘Uyir Thamizhukku’ took place 10 May 2024 in Chennai, with Ameer and director Adam Bawa among the attendees. Ameer addressed the gathering, expressing his views on the challenges faced by political satire films due to censorship. He emphasized the need for a system to address this issue, highlighting the influence of censor board attitudes on filmmaking. Furthermore, Ameer distinguished ‘Uyir Thamizhukku’ as a project rooted in diligent craftsmanship rather than grandeur like ‘Ponni’s Selvan’ or ‘KGF’. He noted the film’s resonance with Seeman, stressing the importance of language preservation.

Ameer also touched upon the significance of titles like “People’s Leader” for figures such as MGR, while questioning the suitability of labels like “Revolutionary Leader“. He hinted at thematic elements within the film regarding political deception but clarified that no direct scenes address this. Ameer questioned, “Accolade and awards are based on merit. We should not buy it for money. The (term) ‘fighter’ here is… I said it in yesterday’s interview and I’m saying it now. Fighter is a big word, Makkal Thilagam is an appropriate title for MGR, but ‘Revolutionary Leader’ is a admired title, whether it is appropriate is a big question mark. Revolution is not ordinary. There are many revolutionaries who revolutionized the world.” implying that MGR wasn’t a revolutionary. 

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SMaRT4Bharat Unveils ‘Babur: The Chessboard King’ Book By Aabhas Maldahiyar In Mumbai

SMaRT4Bharat is gearing up for yet another exciting book launch event, this time featuring “Babur: The Chessboard King” penned by Aabhas Maldahiyar, a skilled Architect and Urban-Designer who seamlessly blends a deep passion for History with enthralling storytelling. The distinguished guests for the event comprise Paresh Rawal, Swaroop Sampath Rawal, and Basha Shumbli, alongside a discussion panel featuring Ratan Sharda, Abhjit Chavda, Ashwin Sanghi, and Abbhas Mahaladiyar.

Scheduled for 11 May 2024, at 6:00 PM, the event will take place at the Rangsharda Auditorium, Bandra. This acclaimed book delves into the narrative surrounding Mughal Emperor Babur. Through meticulous exploration, Maldahiyar unveils the moniker ‘the chessboard king,’ symbolizing Babur’s maneuvering through the intricate political landscapes of his time.

From his early struggles for power in Ferghana amidst familial challenges to his triumphs and setbacks in Samarkand, the book paints a vivid portrayal of Babur’s journey. It highlights his retreat to tribal lands following the relinquishment of Ferghana and his eventual establishment of a kingdom in Kabul, a significant precursor to his ambitious expansion into Hindustan.

The narrative meticulously recounts Babur’s initial forays into Hindustan in AD 1505, his delicate alliances, and the challenges he faced after the demise of Sultan Husayn Mirza Bayqarah, which left him as the sole Timurid prince in power. Supported by Penguin India publication, this remarkable narrative has garnered praise from notable figures such as Amish Tripathi, who commends Maldahiyar for providing rare insights into the Turkic conquerors of pre-modern India through primary sources like Baburnama.

Similarly, Bibek Debroy acknowledges the book’s contribution in challenging conventional narratives surrounding Babur’s life and times, welcoming a fresh perspective on Bharatvarsha’s history.

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KS Rajanna, The Physically Challenged Social Worker Awarded Padma Shri By Modi Govt Was Removed As Disabilities Commissioner Without Notice By Karnataka Congress Govt

Dr. KS Rajanna, a stalwart in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, was stripped of his position as the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities unceremoniously by the Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka Congress government in 2015.

Having lost his arms and legs to polio during childhood, Dr. Rajanna’s life story is one of remarkable perseverance. Despite his physical challenges, he pursued education, earning a diploma in mechanical engineering. His achievements extend beyond academia, as he clinched gold in discus throw and silver in swimming at the 2002 Paralympics, proudly representing India.

Beyond his personal accomplishments, Dr. Rajanna is an exemplary entrepreneur, providing employment opportunities for over 350 individuals, many of whom share his disability. His commitment to service led him to become the first differently-abled Karnataka State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in 2013.

During the Padma awards ceremony, Dr. Rajanna’s determination was palpable as he declined assistance, showcasing his self-reliant spirit. His story resonates deeply, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and contribute meaningfully to society.

In a touching moment captured on video, Dr. Rajanna’s brief exchange with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah underscored his indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements. Shared by BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, the video encapsulates Dr. Rajanna’s journey from adversity to triumph, earning him the title of a true People’s Padma awardee.

Among the 132 individuals honored with Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, Dr. Rajanna stands as a shining example of resilience and service.

Failure To Support PwD By Karnataka Congress

The Siddaramaiah government in 2015 abruptly concluded KS Rajanna, the state’s first differently-abled commissioner for persons with disabilities and replaced with Kamalakshi Rajanna, a Congress worker. K S Rajanna, appointed in September 2013, merely served 16 months of his three-year term before being replaced without prior notice or explanation. Rajanna, who lost his limbs to polio in childhood, was widely praised for representing the interests of differently-abled individuals in Karnataka.

However, on 16 January 2015, a notification from the state government appointed Kamalakshi Rajanna, a Congress worker, as the new commissioner. This sudden decision drew criticism from the differently-abled community across the state, who deemed it unjust. During his tenure, K S Rajanna reigned in government officials including secretaries and department heads actively pursued various initiatives, including enforcing the Supreme Court directive on implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995. He advocated for measures like free entry to Vidhana Soudha, free bus passes, parking facilities, grievance redressal cells, and enhancing job and education opportunities for the differently-abled.

Rajanna, functioning as a quasi-judicial officer, ensured justice for the disabled through the commission’s court proceedings and initiated a state-wide survey to drive reforms. His surprise inspections of public facilities aimed to ensure they were disability-friendly. Even now, the unexpected end of Rajanna’s term on January 16, 2015 remains fresh in memory, celebrated for his unwavering determination to serve his community.

(With Inputs From IE & Bangalore Mirror)

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“We’ve Never Seen A Bad Season Like This In 14 Years”: TN Govt’s E-Pass System For Ooty And Kodaikanal Hits Small Business Owners & Vendors Hard

The e-pass system came into force in Kodaikanal Dindigul district from 7 May 2024. All vehicles, including tourist vehicles, are allowed only after checking through the QR codes.

Usually Kodaikanal continues to see an increase in tourist arrivals ahead of the summer season and Traffic jams will caused by excessive number of vehicles during such seasons. To avoid this, the Madras High Court has ordered the implementation of e-pass system for tourists to visit Kodaikanal from May 7 to June 30. Following this order, guidelines for obtaining e-pass were published at epass.tnega.org.

In this case, all vehicles arriving at Kodaikanal were allowed to enter the city, including two-wheelers, only after undergoing e-pass check through the QR line at the customs booth near Silver Falls.Vehicles without e-pass were stopped at the entry gate. Vehicles were allowed only after registering e-pass on the spot.

Officials advised foreign tourists who were not aware of e-pass on the process of obtaining e-pass and helped them to get e-pass. Tourists eagerly applied as e-pass was being issued to all those who applied. Unfortunately on 8 May , only 3,792 vanas were given permission to visit to Kodaikanal.

With the introduction of e-pass to Ooty and Kodaikanal, the number of tourists has slowly decreased. Tourists started to cancel their bookings in cottages and lodges. The influx of tourists in vehicles to Ooty and Kodaikanal has dropped and the roads were free. On the other hand, the number of tourists who flocked was less at the tourist spots. This sudden introduction of e-pass mandatory has made the tourists dissatisfied.

Kodaikanal residents, who typically rely on income generated from tourism, are experiencing dissatisfaction due to recent e-pass system, they allege Kodaikanal usually visited by tens of thousands of people per day during the summer season holidays. However, only around 28,168 tourists came. Traders said that this is 25 percent less than the usual arrival, and around 5,000 to 10,000 tourists have been affected. However, there is significant opposition, with various parties, including Kodaikanal residents, strongly protesting the implementation of the e-pass system. Calls to retract the system are growing louder.

A Muslim female street vendor in Kodaikanal, addressing the media, expressed her sorrow, “We’re having a store here for 14 years and in 14 years we’ve never seen a bad season like this. After you’ve declared election, no crowd comes, after that on 7th you say that e-pass is mandatory , even if 1000 vehicles we poor people will (cherish), I’m sick, I can’t go to work. In times like this, if we do business for 200 rupees from morning, how to pay school fees, how to pay loan, we all have bought EMI, taken loan, paying loan monthly. can’t pay loan, you can’t eat even if you want to purchase meat. We think that in this kind of season we can earn ten rupees and save it… You say that Kodaikanal is visited by more tourists, today Kodaikanal should be declared as a non-tourist town”

In response to calm the situation, the Tamil Nadu government has provided clarification, asserting that the operation of issuing e-passes will not disrupt or pose any threat to tourists. Furthermore, the government assures that the public will not face any inconvenience due to the approval of e-passes.

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“Despite All The Provocation, Islamists Are Silent, I Salute Them; Every Action Will Have An Equal And Opposite Reaction”: Netizens Call Out Inflammatory Speech Of ‘Senior Journalist’ Mani

During a recent appearance on the YouTube channel “The Debate,” senior journalist Mani launched a barrage of allegations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. His discourse was rife with fear-mongering, particularly along communal lines, attempting to exacerbate tensions between Hindus and Muslims. Much of his interview comprised unfounded claims, painting a narrative collaborating with Congress and portraying the BJP as an anti-Muslim entity, especially during the crucial peak of election season. Such conduct from a journalist is indeed regrettable and atrocious for cheap fame.

At the onset of the interview, Senior journalist Mani wasted no time in directing sharp criticism towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described Modi’s speeches as perilous, derogatory, and repulsive, accusing him of placing undue emphasis on religion, vilifying individuals, propagating falsehoods about the Congress manifesto, and branding it as an ‘Anti-Muslim campaign’. He claimed that the cornerstone of Modi’s speeches is anti-Muslim rhetoric.

Additionally, he emphasized that their most significant accomplishments include the abolition of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram temple. He also pointed out that garnering votes solely by mentioning these achievements isn’t enough; instead, he accused Modi of inciting anti-Muslim sentiment. He referenced a Supreme Court ruling, highlighting that the police should take proactive measures against hate speech. However, he questioned the current state of affairs, noting that despite hate speech being deemed a crime under the RPA act, the individual in question continues to campaign without repercussions, despite repeated offenses. Mani asserted that, “Modi sincerely believes that either his 10-years achievement, or the opening of a Ram temple, or 370 will not give him votes. Surely, he believes only in Muslim hate which will win him votes, and that’s why he keeps speaking it. Its a conscious decision. It’s a well-planned decision. He’s not just speaking in a spur of the moment, or speaking in a fit of anger.” Mani elaborates that Modi believes his hate speech will secure votes from the majority Hindu population in North India, emphasizing that such rhetoric has sadly become a daily occurrence.

After shamelessly spreading hateful and fear-mongering narratives against Modi, So called senior journalist Mani hypocritically instigates Muslims, despite the Prime Minister not uttering a single word against them, says, “Such atrocities has not happened to Muslims in the last 17 general elections. Now, hate is being spread against them openly without any shame. The Prime Minister himself is leading that, using all tools in this technological decade. Where it will end? Do not forget – every action has equivalent and opposite reaction. How much will you persecute a community (Muslims)? Despite of all this provocation, the Muslims remain calm, I salute them, truly I salute them. Even after so much provocation—the young men and women who are in it are staying silent, this is cruelty, this is not a country but a crematorium.”  

Mani persistently maintained that regardless of the outcome, this election would be remembered for its religious polarization.

The host Manoj Prabhakar asked journalist Mani about his perspective on the current election scenario, highlighting the contrasting narratives of potential NDA losses alongside aggressive campaigning, and the apparent disunity among parties. In response, senior journalist Mani commented that this election is crucial for determining the future of India. He criticized Prime Minister Modi’s divisive rhetoric, accusing him of pitting his own people against each other, akin to wolves thirst for blood. Mani expressed concern over BJP’s tactics, stating that, “if the Indian populace elects BJP with a simple majority, it means the country is travelling down a perilous path.”   

The distinction between past elections and the present one lies in more than just selecting our next leader for the next five years. I perceive this election as a referendum on the vitality of India’s soul. Despite ongoing events, if the Indian populace chooses to endorse them, speaks volumes. That’s why I maintain that Modi is not the illness itself but merely a symptom. Their reliance on these tactics suggests they believe it will secure victory, hence Modi’s persistent rhetoric throughout the campaign. Journalist Mani referenced Mahatma Gandhi’s statement, wherein he expressed that if India were to achieve independence solely through the turmoil of Hindu-Muslim riots and the subsequent bloodshed, resulting in countless floating skulls, he would delay India’s freedom by a decade.

Senior journalist Mani has launched a fervent attack on the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that if the BJP faces a potential loss, they might resort to any means necessary, as indicated by their aggressive campaign. Mani said, “Secularism is the soul of India, after sacrificing it…. But where we are today, will a prime minister speak so rudely? If the Prime Minister speaks won’t there be impact? How will it continue to insert down there, how far the poison is spreading and how are you going to deal with it? That’s why I said, what is going to happen after results. If the mandate is decisive then okay. Perhaps if results favour INDIA Bloc to some extent, BJP is unable to form the government, i.e. BJP is the single largest party, but could not form the government, and with alliance INDIA bloc comes to power. Do you think BJP will be silent? They wont! Of course not. Look at that scenario and Modi’s speech now. We are standing in dangerous times”

Mani later went on to discuss the situation in North India, where cities have a 50/50 Hindu-Muslim population ratio. He expressed concern that with just a spark, the tension could escalate, potentially leading to widespread unrest across the country. He inquired about strategies to address this volatile situation.

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Ancient Chola Era Nandi And Vishnu Stone Sculptures Unearthed In Chitrakudi, Thanjavur District

In a significant archaeological discovery, researchers in Chitrakudi, Thanjavur district, have unearthed ancient sculptures believed to date back to the 9th or 10th century. Among the artifacts found are a Nandi sculpture and a Vishnu sculpture, the latter of which is missing its head but is made of stone.

The idols were discovered by a team led by Mani Maran, a  Tamil scholar at Saraswati Mahal Library, Thanjavur, after being alerted by S. Sathya, Assistant Professor in Tamil at Bon Secours College for Women. Thillai Govindarajan, headmaster of Government Elementary School, Ponthiyakulam, and G. Jayalakshmi, a government schoolteacher, were also part of the team.

According to Mr. Maran, based on the style and features of the sculptures, both idols belonged to the Chola period. The Nandi, with half of its body buried, was found in an agricultural land at Lingathadimedu in Chithirakudi. The well-sculpted idol features a “manimalai” around the neck of the Nandi. Mr. Maran pointed out that the hump of the Nandi is well sculpted and similar to those found in local bulls.

The idol of Vishnu was discovered about 100 meters away, on the Ananda Cauvery, an irrigation canal that irrigates the village. “The idol, with its head and a hand broken, was found close to the south bank of the canal. The idol, about three feet tall, was buried below the hip. There could have been a big Sivan temple that had fallen into ruin in the area,” Mr. Maran added.

The Nandi sculpture, which is intact, is believed to be a representation of the sacred bull that serves as the mount of the Hindu god Shiva. The Vishnu sculpture, despite missing its head, is an important find, shedding light on the religious and cultural practices of the time.

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“No Point Relying On Aavin And This Govt”: Tamil Nadu’s Dairy Milk Dealers Association Welcomes Amul, Says They’ve Lost Faith On DMK Govt

Amidst a surprising turn of events in Tamil Nadu, the state Milk Dealers Association has declared a shift away from reliance on Aavin, stating, “If Amul comes, we will welcome it!”.

This statement comes in stark contrast to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s letter to the Central government opposing Amul’s arrival from Gujarat.

S A Ponnusamy, the president of the Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers Welfare Association, emphasized Amul’s prominence as the leading cooperative milk company in India, particularly its significant presence in Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu. He refuted media reports suggesting the establishment of a dairy farm by Amul in Krishnagiri district.

Highlighting Amul’s longstanding presence in neighboring states and its diverse product range, including milk powder and ice cream, Ponnusamy also mentioned the marketing of curd packets sourced from a farm in Balamaneri, Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, in bordering districts of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The association expressed readiness to embrace Amul’s potential establishment of a dairy farm in Tamil Nadu and its involvement in the milk business, citing past disillusionment with Aavin’s ability to safeguard the interests of milk producers and dealers.

In response to Chief Minister MK Stalin’s protest letter against Amul’s visit, the association criticized milk and dairy sector officials, including current ministers, of exploiting the milk industry without addressing their issues. Ponnusamy pointed out that they stood with the Tamil Nadu government in the past and opposed the entry of other cooperatives like Amul and Nandini in order to protect Aavin in the hope that Aavin would protect their livelihoods in return. Consequently, the Tamil Nadu Milk Agents Workers Welfare Association has lost faith in Aavin and the Tamil Nadu government, viewing their actions as merely superficial. In light of this, the association invites cooperative milk companies like Amul and Nandini to step forward and ensure equitable income for milk agents engaged in service-oriented milk distribution across Tamil Nadu.

“The Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers Workers Welfare Association has come to the conclusion that it is no longer working for them to trust Aavin and the Tamil Nadu government as they are giving importance only to empty advertisements.”, Ponnusamy said in his statement.

The Association has asked for uninterrupted access to quality milk products for the public and fair purchase prices for milk supplied by producers, without any outstanding dues.

In a bid to ensure fair treatment for milk agents and producers, the association extended a warm invitation to cooperative milk companies like Amul and Nandini, advocating for equitable income and uninterrupted supply of quality milk products across Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Dairy Development Department refuted claims of Amul planning to compete with Aavin, stating that Amul has not yet established a dairy farm or commenced milk sales in Tamil Nadu.

(With Inputs From Vikatan)

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“Some YouTube Channels Turning Out To Be A Menace”: Madras High Court Adjourns Anticipatory Bail Plea Of Red Pix’s Felix Gerald

The Madras High Court has directed the police department to respond to the petition submitted by journalist Felix Gerald, who is seeking anticipatory bail regarding the broadcast of an interview featuring ‘Savukku’ Shankar.

Justice K Kumaresh Babu of the Madras High Court expressed concern on 9 May 2024, that certain YouTube channels prioritize gaining subscribers over ethical content, potentially posing a threat to society. His remarks came during the hearing of an anticipatory bail petition by Felix Gerald of the RedPix YouTube channel. Gerald and ‘Savukku’ Shankar faced charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Woman Act of 1988.

The court learned that Gerald had facilitated derogatory remarks against women police personnel during an interview with Shankar. This led to a case being filed by the Coimbatore cyber crime cell, resulting in Shankar’s arrest. The police had summoned Felix for questioning who later moved an anticipatory bail to avoid arrest.

The judge criticized the nature of Gerald’s interview, suggesting he may have prompted or encouraged Shankar to make offensive statements. The judge questioned whether Gerald’s journalistic experience justified his actions, indicating that Gerald should have been treated as the primary offender in the case.

Is this what you even call as an interview?” the judge asked saying that the petitioner Felix would have questioned Savukku on knowing well that he would answer it in a particular way, or he would have encouraged the interviewee make derogatory statements.

When considering allowing Gerald to appear for an inquiry without facing coercive measures, the judge was cautious, as it might indirectly grant anticipatory bail. As per the Additional Public Prosecutor’s request, the judge adjourned the hearing on Gerald’s bail petition for a week.

(With Inputs From The Hindu)

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DMK Propaganda Journo Peddles Half-Truths About RTI On Katchatheevu Issue; DMK MP Wilson, Congress Supporter Sumanth Raman Amplifies

The recent activity on social media has been ignited by the actions of a self-proclaimed journalist, Aravindakshan B R. Since 7 May 2024, he has been utilizing his official social media platform, X, to propagate a series of tweets purporting to expose the truth behind a previous allegation involving the DMK’s involvement in ceding the Kachchatheevu island to Sri Lanka. In these tweets, he claimed to shed light on the alleged collaboration between Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in this matter.

This so-called exposé by the journalist aimed to discredit the previous narrative but ended up being riddled with contradictions. As a result, all the constructed narratives fell apart, causing embarrassment to those who initially believed in the authenticity of the claims. Dravidian journalists, activists, and ministers who had endorsed the allegations faced public scrutiny and subsequently deleted their posts upon realizing the falsity of the narratives.

On 7 May 2024, self-proclaimed journalist Aravindakshan, associated with Sathiyam TV, made a statement on his official X account. He announced a big breaking, as Sathyam news will soon expose with evidence of the fraud of the ‘Katchatheevu island’ political drama orchestrated by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai K to sway the parliamentary elections in Tamil Nadu.

Later in a series of threaded posts, Aravindakshan launched into a tirade, leveling numerous baseless and unsubstantiated allegations against the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the minister, and the RTI process, displaying a lack of understanding of common RTI procedures.  Aravindakshan claimed, “Before the Tamil Nadu election polling, MEA India, the BJP, and Times of India conspired against the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government and Congress to propagate slander and false news for the benefit of the Tamil Nadu BJP. Complementing the BJP’s electoral strategy, the Ministry of External Affairs of India was involved. It’s a part of BJP’s efforts to instigate trouble in opposition-led states for political gain.

He pointed to an article published by Times of India on 31 March 2024, authored by Diwakar and Akhilesh Singh, allegedly revealing sensitive information obtained through an RTI query made by Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai to the MEA. Aravindakshan questioned the timing of the release of the RTI response and its subsequent publication by Times of India on the same day, implying collusion between the newspaper and the ministry. He suggested that the responses were leaked to the press before the petitioner received them, likening it to a breach of legal protocol. Aravindakshan also criticized Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for allegedly participating in the dissemination of these documents for electoral gain, calling it an “illegal act” and a “disgraceful act.” He further accused the MEA of fraudulent behavior, citing discrepancies in the official names listed on the ministry’s website and those mentioned in the RTI response. Aravindakshan concluded by condemning the alleged actions of the MEA, calling it “the stupidest thing any ministry in India has ever done” and suggesting that the ministry should feel ashamed of its actions.

Aravindakshan, a Dravidian journo, focused his contention on the identity of Ajay Jain, asserting that Jain was not affiliated with the Ministry of External Affairs, thus branding the entire scheme as fraudulent.

Soon after the propagation of unsubstantiated claims, Congress supporter and ‘All-in-All’ commentator Sumanth Raman, along with DMK MP P Wilson, swiftly shared this propaganda on their official social media platforms. However, as netizens quickly began debunking these claims, citing Ajay Jain’s designation as the CPIO under the Ministry of External Affairs with sourced data, the DMK MP was compelled to remove his post.

In another attempt to promote his agenda, Aravindakshan straightforwardly shared a copy of an RTI response, stating that, “The list of holding charge as the Under Secretary in CNV & I division of Ministry of External Affairs is a s follows:

  1. Smt. Monika Aggarwal, Under Secretary (Vigilance-I) &CPIO
  2. Shri Sheelmani, Under Secretary (Vigilance-II)”

This assertion is highly debatable since the CPIO’s authority is limited to responding to specific inquiries. As there are possibility that the inquiry was about the current CPIO of the CNV & I Division, to which the MEA provided information, hence its debatable and there’s no indication of any inquiry about Ajay Jain or any response from the MEA regarding him. This appears to be a clear case of propagandist misinformation from the alleged journalist. However, the journalist is cleverly framing propaganda in his X post instead of filing an RTI request.

Example, Aravindakshan in his X post states, “India’s External Affairs Ministry @MEAIndia says no one named Ajay Jain has worked as Under Secretary in the CNV &I Division of MEA. If so, Mr. Jaishankar, who is Ajay Jain who provided documents related to “Kachchatheevu island” to @annamalai_k‘s RTI application? @DrSJaishankar Did you order the External Affairs Ministry to fraudulently and illegally issue documents in the name of a fake person?

Did the RTI response received by the purveyor of false narrative RTI activist, Aravindakshan, indicate that there is no individual named Ajay Jain employed at the Ministry of External Affairs? No!

In conclusion, Aravindakshan’s attempt to promote narratives favoring both the DMK and Congress regarding the Kachchatheevu island issue backfired. While his narrative initially appeared successful, with endorsement from a DMK MP, it eventually unraveled. Later, when all else failed, he resorted to openly pleading for support from Congress officials, highlighting the stark contrast in reactions of the Congress. He lamented out that if a Congress functionary were to express an incorrect opinion in an interview, it would be swiftly seized upon by BJP leaders, key figures, and supporters, including the Prime Minister, making it a major issue.

However, Congress and all its administrators, including the chief, remained conspicuously silent, seemingly unable to voice any opposition. Similarly, He dragged Tamil Nadu Congress as a quiet observation from Tamil Nadu Congress functionaries even after a leader’s interview, as noted by Selvaperunthagai. This disparity led him to suggest, metaphorically, that it seemed as if the mouths of state-level officials were sealed shut, urging them to practice speaking out against such injustices.

 

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