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“2000 People Who Were Victims Were Listed As Co-Accused To Help Senthil Balaji Get Bail”, Says BJP TN Leader Suryah

By
The Commune
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Former Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji was granted bail by a Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Abhay Oka on Thursday, September 26, after spending over 15 months in jail. The court granted him conditional bail, considering his prolonged detention under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Balaji’s arrest stemmed from allegations of illegal money transfers and bribery related to job appointments during his tenure as the state’s Transport Minister.

Conditions for Bail

The Supreme Court laid out strict conditions for Senthil Balaji’s release:

  • He must provide a ₹25 lakh surety from two individuals.
  • He cannot contact or influence the witnesses and victims, directly or indirectly.
  • He is required to report to the Directorate of Enforcement, Chennai, every Monday and Friday between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.
  • He must also appear before investigating officers on the first Saturday of every month regarding three pending criminal cases.
  • He must surrender his passport and attend all court hearings.
  • He cannot request unnecessary adjournments during the trial.

Legal Journey Leading To Bail

Senthil Balaji’s legal troubles began with allegations of bribery during the recruitment process for various positions in the Tamil Nadu Transport Department in 2014. He was accused of accepting bribes for job placements as the then-Transport Minister, a charge that was later formalized under the Prevention of Bribery Act. Following complaints by victims who had paid for jobs but were not appointed, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed against him in 2018, and a charge sheet was submitted.

The case took a major turn in 2023 when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Senthil Balaji under the PMLA for his involvement in a money laundering case linked to the bribery allegations. The Madras Principal Sessions Court rejected his repeated bail petitions, the Madras High Court, and even the Supreme Court, until the recent judgment.

The Strategy Of Making 2,000 People Accused

A key aspect of Balaji’s legal strategy involved turning the tables on the victims of the bribery scheme. The police, in collaboration with the accused, registered cases against around 2,000 individuals who had allegedly paid bribes to secure jobs in the Transport Department. This action complicated the case significantly. It is alleged that charging the victims of bribery was a deliberate move to muddy the waters, creating a vast pool of accused individuals that would make it almost impossible to conclude the trial in a reasonable timeframe.

These 2,000 individuals, including some who had originally paid bribes hoping to secure jobs, were now listed as co-accused in the case. This added layer of complexity not only delayed the judicial process but also provided grounds for Senthil Balaji’s eventual release on bail.

Speaking in a news debate, BJP TN State Secretary SG Suryah said, “The CM states that the court is the final place where freedom can be grated. But what they forget is that when a bail plea was placed earlier, the same Supreme Court had denied it. But at that time, it was only a few days after arrest and now it is more than 450 days after arrest. Let me take you back to the origins of this case. DMK had placed the allegations forward but the present CM who was the then leader of the opposition had stated that if DMK came to power, he (Senthil Balaji) would be behind bars. In today’s judgement, there are a few things. For example, how the money was deposited, about 1.36 crores was deposited in Senthil Balaji’s account. When this was being investigated, what he said was that 80 lakhs was his MLA salary and he had deposited that. Today, even a small company transfers money (salary) to their employees’ accounts. Now the same is being done for MLAs as well. It is not given in cash. So, things are not adding up there. All this is the reason why he was in jail for 470+ days.”

Responding to the allegations that the arrest was politically motivated, Suryah said, “When the chargesheet was filed, Senthil Balaji was admitted in the hospital stating he is not well. It was also presented in court that he had got the case adjourned 12 times. Due to this, the bail conditions are strict. Especially, the F condition states that adjournment must not be requested for frivolous reasons. The reason for this specific condition is that he has done this previously and this was placed as an argument to deny bail. This itself is a DMK-conspiracy. Let me tell you how. By the time the case reached the Supreme Court (Ramasubramaniam bench), the 2000 people who had given ‘bribe’ were victims. Now in order to save him, all of the victims were named as co-accused. You know how difficult it is to conduct a trial for one single accused, our Indian judicial system is like that. Even the judgement says that it will take about 400 years to cross-examine each of the witnesses and take the case forward. What we must ask is that people give money and request a government job, and they are cheated. How can these people become accused? I don’t think this has happened, at such a scale in any case so far. Because of this conspiracy only he was granted bail. Only 4 of them were accused, Senthil Balaji, his brother, the PA, and one more person. Now all those who gave money became accused. There is no observation in the judgement of any coercion anywhere. It is a political statement; everyone says that even Hemant Soren said that. He is out now, if he can reveal who said that we will take action.”

Bail Granted Amidst Trial Delays

The Supreme Court, while granting bail, observed that the trial could not be concluded within the next three to four years, given the enormous number of accused and witnesses involved. With over 550 witnesses and 2,000 accused, the court highlighted that further detention would violate Balaji’s fundamental right to a speedy trial, as enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

The court also pointed out that while the PMLA imposes stringent conditions for bail under Section 45(1)(iii), these cannot be used to keep an individual in jail for an indefinite period without trial. Justice Oka, in his judgment, emphasized that Senthil Balaji’s detention for over 15 months without the possibility of a swift trial was in contravention of his fundamental rights.

Case Background 

Senthil Balaji’s political career has seen its share of ups and downs. Starting as a local body representative for DMK, he switched allegiance to AIADMK and served as the Transport Minister from 2011 to 2015. After a fallout within AIADMK and subsequent political shifts, Balaji returned to DMK in 2018 and was appointed Minister for Electricity, Prohibition, and Excise in 2021.

The recruitment scandal erupted in 2014, when the Transport Department, under Balaji’s leadership, advertised for several positions, including drivers, conductors, and engineers. Allegations soon surfaced that bribes were paid for job placements. Multiple complaints were filed, and investigations began, eventually implicating Balaji in a widespread bribery scheme.

Following the change of government in 2021, the ED took up the case under the PMLA, accusing Balaji of laundering money obtained through illegal means. Despite efforts to quash the case, including petitions filed in both the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court, Balaji was arrested in June 2023. His detention was extended multiple times, with the Supreme Court finally ruling in September 2024 that further detention without trial was unjust.

With the trial still pending and over 2,000 accused individuals to be cross-examined, the case is set to continue probably for years. However, Senthil Balaji’s ability to secure bail after prolonged detention marks a significant moment in his legal battle, underscoring the complex interplay of legal, political, and administrative maneuvers that have shaped this case.

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Media Plays An Important Role In Building A Developed India: Union Minister Murugan

By
The Commune
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Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan on Friday said that the media plays an important role in building a developed India while inaugurating the National Media Conference organised at the headquarters of Brahma Kumaris Institute in Abu Road.

“The media is a powerful medium that provides information from different parts of the country to its citizens. That is why it is called the fourth pillar of democracy,” Union Minister Murugan said while addressing the national conference on ‘Spiritual Empowerment for a Healthy and Happy Society – Role of Media’. It was attended by over one thousand journalists, editors, bureau chiefs, and radio and web journalists nationwide.

The Union Minister said that India is a country full of diversity, with many languages, cultures, and traditions. “The media must provide correct information to the citizens of the country sitting at the last end of the nation,” he said.

He said that today, anyone can be a journalist, write news, and create literature in the era of information revolution and social media. However, with the expansion of technology, good news does not go viral as fast as bad news; fake news goes viral. “Journalists should check the news’s veracity and publish it. Creating a healthy and happy society is possible only by promoting good news. He said that the New Broadcasting Services Regulation Bill 2024 is being brought to stop the broadcast of misinformation.” The Union Minister said that if a hostile environment is being created in society today, we need to consider what we are sending to society. “To build a value-based society, we must incorporate values in life,” he added.

Brahma Kumaris is an internationally renowned spiritual organisation with branches worldwide. It is affiliated with the United Nations in consultative status for peacekeeping. It is committed to the moral and spiritual upliftment of mankind. It conducts various programmes worldwide to raise awareness among every cross-section of society and fulfill the key objective of peace-giving.

–IANS

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First Time West Pakistan Refugees, Kashmiri Migrant Pandits Will Sit, Vote In J&K Assembly: JP Nadda

By
The Commune
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First Time West Pakistan Refugees, Kashmiri Migrant Pandits Will Sit, Vote In J&K Assembly: JP Nadda

BJP President, JP Nadda said on Friday that it is because of the BJP government at the Centre that nominated members from among West Pakistan refugees and Kashmiri migrant Pandits will sit and vote in the Assembly.

He told a Press conference here on Friday, “Previously, Valmiki Samaj people could not vote, could not get a government job, their children could not get admission in colleges. They could only work as sanitation workers. We gave them reservation. We gave reservation to OBCs. “For the first time West Pakistan refugees can vote in the legislative Assembly elections. They could previously only vote for the Lok Sabha and not the J&K Assembly. You had 36 seats in the Assembly and now Jammu has 43 seats.”

He added, “The Congress and NC have insulted Maharaja Hari Singh. We gave him respect. We made Dogri the official language. Our government held three-tier elections never done during the NC and Congress rule. This will be the first time that nominated members of the West Pakistan refugees and Kashmir Pandit migrants will sit in the J&K Assembly.” Nadda continued, “Voting for the first two phases has proved how overwhelmingly the people have extended support to the idea of PM Narendra Modi. “These elections were fair, free and transparent and largely people participative. Diplomats of 16 countries visited and saw the poll process. The voting has been the people’s rejection of the gun and assertion for democracy.” “The youth have come forward in large numbers to prove that violence does not interest them anymore. Jammu is one of the developed cities of the country now. I have seen your AIIMS with one of the best modular operation theatres. The Indian Institute of Mass Communication and the Indian Institute of Technology, these are PM Modi’s gifts to Jammu. “Jammu is now recognised as the hub of education. In the last five years there was no shutdown while previously 100 days were lost to shutdowns in Jammu. I come to seek the blessings of the people of Jammu when I speak of double engine,” he said. Dwelling on the issue of mainstreaming of Kashmiri youth, Nadda said, “Youth of Kashmir Valley have rejected terrorism and the mainstreaming of Kashmiri youth has taken place. Before this, every year, 300 to 400 Kashmiri youth would join militancy and they would be categorised as militants. The number has now come down to just four.”

Slamming the NC and Congress he said, “The problem is that when J&K has started its march towards development, parties like the NC and Congress are talking in support of those who work against the integrity of the country. They want to resume cross-border trade. The NC says they want talks with Pakistan. This is endorsed by the Defence Minister of Pakistan who has said that the NC and the Congress represent Pakistan in Kashmir. The NC and Congress are family interest parties and they have no interest in Jammu’s progress.” “They have now become champions of democracy. They talk of statehood. The Home Minister in the Parliament and the Prime Minister has said statehood will be restored. You are promising statehood in your manifesto while you don’t have the power to restore statehood. It is the government in power in the country that can give statehood to J&K,” he said further slamming the NC and the Congress.

“We have given equitable development. We have AIIMS in Awantipora and also in Jammu. You have Asia’s tallest bridge, you have the longest road tunnel, Chenani-Nashri tunnel. Katra and Baramulla are being joined through railways. “The NC and Congress are talking about development today. The Shahpur Kandi project was declared as a National Project by the BJP government and it is ready now to irrigate the farthest areas of Jammu. “We have built five major hydro power projects in Jammu region and our government held three-tier elections that was never done in NC and Congress rule. This will be the first time that nominated members of West Pakistan refugees and Kashmiri Pandit migrants will sit in the J&K legislative Assembly”, he said.

Highlighting the welfare measures of the government he stated that Ayushman Bharat was the world’s largest health coverage scheme for 12.36 crore families under which Rs 5 lakh health cover was given to each family per year which had now been increased to Rs 7 lakh, and the elderly over 70 years of age would get an additional health cover of up to Rs 5 lakh per year. “Over six crore elderly people are being added in the Ayushman Bharat programme by PM Modi”, he said. He ended his press conference by requesting the media to give wide publicity to the points made by him so that the people would get to know the good work the BJP has done in J&K and intends to do in the future.

–IANS

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Jagan Mohan Reddy Cancels Tirupati Visit Amid Demand For Declaration Of Faith

By
The Commune
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Jagan Mohan Reddy Cancels Tirupati Visit Amid Demand For Declaration Of Faith

Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy cancelled his visit to Tirumala temple in view of the growing tension following threats by some groups to disrupt his visit if he fails to give a declaration of his faith before entering the famous hill shrine. YSR Congress Party president cancelled his visit, hours before he was to leave for Tirupati for darshan on Saturday.

Alleging that there is devil’s rule in the state, Jagan Mohan Reddy said he was being stopped from visiting the temple. He said police have issued notices to YSRCP leaders and cadres stating that there is no permission for his visit to Tirumala temple and warned them against participating in the programme. The former chief minister alleged that BJP functionaries from adjoining states were being called to Tirupati to stop him. “I don’t know if the BJP’s central leadership knows this,” he said. Jagan Mohan Reddy mentioned that thousands of policemen were deployed in Tirupati.

He appealed to YSRCP cadres and people to pray at temples in their respective constituencies and villages that “god’s wrath for desecrating Tirumala temple confine to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and that state is saved from this”. Jagan alleged that since CM Naidu “lied” about the use of ghee adulterated with animal fat for laddu ‘prasadam’, he was trying to “divert” the issue by raking up the issue of declaration. He reiterated that the Chief Minister levelled allegations of adulterated ghee in ‘prasadam’ to divert public attention from “failure” to deliver on poll promises in 100 days of his government. The YSRCP chief said CM Naidu “tarnished” the sanctity of Sri Venkateswara temple and “hurt” the sentiments of devotees by making false allegations that ghee used for making laddus had animal fat in it.

Reiterating that Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam (TTD) has a foolproof system to check adulteration through three levels of quality tests, Jagan said There were many instances of TTD sending back ghee tankers that failed the tests. Jagan said the four tankers that failed the tests had reached TTD on July 6 and 12 when the Naidu government had already assumed office. He said that earlier the TTD was sending samples from suspected adulterated to a lab in Mysuru for crosschecking in the past, for the first time the samples from these four tankers were sent to NNDB, Gujarat. Citing the statements of TTD Executive Officer Syamala Rao, appointed by CM Naidu, that ghee from these four tankers was sent back, Jagan said despite knowing the facts, CM Naidu spread the “lie” that adulterated ghee was used for making laddus and devotees consumed it.

Jagan said CM Naidu deliberately spread “falsehood” for politics, desecrating Tirumala temple and hurting the sentiments of millions of devotees. The YSRCP chief said since CM Naidu’s “lies” were getting “exposed”, he “diverted” the topic and raised the issue of declaration of faith. He recalled that his father Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, who was chief minister for five years, participated in Brahmotsavam and offered sacred clothes to Lord Venkateswara. Jagan said he visited Tirumala temple many times before becoming the chief minister and recalled that he walked up to the hill shrine after completing his state-wide padayatra. “After I became the chief minister, TTD invited me every year to give clothes to Lord Venkateswara Swamy,” he said.

–IANS

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Hindu Munnani Demands Action Against YouTube Channel U2 Brutus For Video Defaming Hindu Religious Practices Amidst Tirupati Laddu Controversy

By
The Commune
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Hindu Munnani Demands Action Against YouTube Channel U2 Brutus

The Hindu Munnani has urged the TN government to take swift and strict action against the YouTube channel ‘U2 Brutus’, which has stirred controversy by releasing a video allegedly defaming Hindu religious practices, particularly surrounding the preparation of the sacred Tirupati Laddu. Hindu Munnani State President Kadeshwara Subramanian has released a press note in this regard.

The press release mentioned that the video derides Hindu traditions, especially after the news that animal fat mixed in the ghee was used for the Tirupati temple’s Naivedya Prasadam. This has sparked outrage among Venkatesa Perumal devotees globally, with Hindu Munnani State President Khadeswara C. Subramaniam leading calls for immediate intervention.

In the press release, Subramaniam highlighted that the video posted by U2 Brutus has deeply hurt the sentiments of Hindus worldwide. He criticized the state police for their inaction on previous complaints filed by Hindu devotees, including one regarding an earlier incident where the same individual allegedly insulted the Chidambaram Thillai Nataraja. According to Subramaniam, while police have promptly acted on cases involving other communities, they have been hesitant to take legal measures when it comes to offenses that target Hindu deities and traditions.

The allegations in the U2 Brutus video have not only caused distress among devotees but also raised concerns about the integrity of religious offerings at one of India’s most revered temples. Hindu Munnani warns that this incident has the potential to ignite widespread protests if the authorities fail to act.

Referencing past incidents where the Hindu community rallied together to protect its faith—such as the jallikattu ban in Tamil Nadu, attempts to undermine the sanctity of the Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir, and conspiracies targeting the Ayyappan temple in Kerala—Subramaniam emphasized that Hindus have always risen to defend their religious rights and traditions. He expressed confidence that those responsible for tarnishing the Tirupati Laddu Prasad would face consequences.

The Hindu Munnani has demanded that the police take strict action under the Goondas Act to arrest those responsible for the controversial video. They warned that failure to act could lead to massive public protests, as many Hindus have pledged to file complaints at their local police stations in response to this affront.

“If the police continue to hesitate, the Hindu community will be left with no choice but to gather in large numbers and stage a democratic protest,” the press release stated. Subramaniam also pointed out that similar insults to Hindu deities, like those against Lord Muruga’s Kanda Sashti Kavasam, had led to widespread protests, and this latest incident could provoke a similar reaction.

In closing, the Hindu Munnani called on the Tamil Nadu police to act decisively, arresting the individuals behind the U2 Brutus channel and preventing further damage to Hindu religious sentiments.

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“Nandhan”: A Bold Exposé On Dravidian Model Of Social Justice, Film Not Screened In Chennai Theatres?

By
The Commune
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Nandhan Film Poster

In an alarming turn of events, Nandhan, a film that exposes the deep flaws within the much-touted Dravidian model of governance, is reportedly not running in a single theatre in Chennai. Directed by Era Saravanan, the movie sheds light on the harsh realities faced by marginalized (SC) communities in Tamil Nadu, revealing the disconnect between the ruling Dravidian parties’ claims of social justice and the lived experiences of the oppressed.

The film’s narrative draws from real-life incidents, detailing how Scheduled Caste (SC) members in various villages across Tamil Nadu have been systematically denied their basic rights despite holding elected positions in local governance. Nandhan portrays the struggles of Panchayat councilors from marginalized communities, who are often denied the opportunity to hoist the national flag at public government functions—an act that symbolizes not just exclusion but systemic discrimination. Through its raw depiction of caste oppression, the film courageously addresses an issue that has been long ignored by those in power.

One of the key themes Nandhan tackles is the institutional hurdles faced by SC panchayat leaders in securing fundamental civic necessities, such as cemeteries for their communities. The film recounts the story of a man who has spent three years fighting, unsuccessfully, to get approval for a cemetery in his village—a right denied to him due to the dominance of upper-caste power structures.

Moreover, Nandhan amplifies the voices of those who have faced severe physical threats, beatings, and even stabbings simply for daring to contest elections against dominant caste candidates. These incidents, heartbreakingly told by the film’s protagonists, reveal the dangerous conditions that SC leaders endure while the state government promotes a superficial narrative of social equality.

Despite Nandhan receiving a positive response from viewers during a special screening – many of whom were moved to tears by its powerful storytelling, the film has encountered heavy opposition seemingly from the ruling DMK government. Some believe this resistance is rooted in its daring critique of the Dravidian model, which has been upheld by the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) as a beacon of social justice. The film suggests otherwise, showing how the model has failed to uplift SC communities, who still face systemic discrimination, exclusion, and violence.

Kollywood, which has seen many such themes focusing on the Brahmin-bashing alone has not voiced concerns about the suppression of Nandhan. Attempts to stifle this film’s screening raise uncomfortable questions about the nature of censorship and the power wielded by the ruling DMK in the state. Ticket booking apps like Book My Show do not show the film screening in Chennai. Critics call this move an act of “real fascism,” asserting that it is designed to silence any critique of the ruling government’s claims.

Director Era Saravanan deserves recognition for his brave attempt to tell the story of those who have been failed by the system. Through Nandhan, he exposes the ugly realities behind the Dravidian movement’s hollow promises of equality and empowerment. The film gives a voice to the disenfranchised, making it a powerful piece of political cinema that demands to be seen.

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Indian Mountaineering Team’s Naming Of Arunachal Peak After 6th Dalai Lama Leaves China Fuming

By
The Commune
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Indian Mountaineering Team's Naming Of Arunachal Peak After 6th Dalai Lama Leaves China Fuming

China expressed strong disapproval after an Indian mountaineering team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) scaled an unnamed peak in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang region and named it after the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. The peak, standing at 6,383 meters (20,942 ft), was conquered last Saturday by a 15-member team led by NIMAS director Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal.

The peak, located in a region claimed by China as part of its territory, has sparked a fresh diplomatic controversy. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated during a press briefing in Beijing that it is “illegal and null and void for India to set up the so-called ‘Arunachal Pradesh’ in Chinese territory.” China insists that Arunachal Pradesh is part of its territory, referring to it as “Zangnan.”

The Indian Defence Ministry, in a statement, emphasized that naming the peak after the 6th Dalai Lama is a tribute to his “timeless wisdom” and “profound contributions” to the Monpa community of the Tawang region. The 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, who lived in the 17th and 18th centuries, was born in Tawang, a region Beijing claims as part of its sovereign territory. China’s discontent also stems from the symbolic significance of the Dalai Lama, an institution representing Tibet’s independence prior to Chinese control.

NIMAS, based in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, and operating under the Ministry of Defence, undertook the expedition as part of its regular adventure activities, though such missions are often seen as reinforcing India’s territorial claims. According to Lt. Col. M. Rawat, a defence spokesperson, the expedition to the peak, previously unscaled and unnamed, was particularly challenging due to ice walls, treacherous crevasses, and a two-kilometer-long glacier.

China, which has been renaming places in Arunachal Pradesh since 2017 as part of its ongoing territorial claim, reiterated its stance that the area, including Tawang, is Chinese territory. However, India’s decision to honor the 6th Dalai Lama with the naming has been perceived as a strategic response to counter China’s territorial assertions over Arunachal Pradesh.

As tensions between the two countries remain strained over the region, this latest development adds to the complex geopolitical landscape of the India-China border dispute.

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Amidst Tirupati Laddu Beef Row, Dravidianist Media Puthiya Thalamurai Does Exclusive Episode Celebrating Beef

By
The Commune
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Dravidianists have been having a field day mocking Hindus over the beef adulteration in ghee in the Tirupati prasadam issue. Day in and day out, they have been trying to deride Hindus and their sentiments by talking about beef and making posts around it. Be it politicians or Dravidianist ideology supporters, they mocked and made fun of Hindus, especially Brahmins.

Several news media persons also indulged in the same. On 25 September 2024, the Dravidianist media channel Puthiya Thalaimurai shared a video dedicated to beef lovers. In the 6-minute video, the host Priya Rajendran talks about a place in Chennai that is dubbed the “Heaven for Beef Lovers“.

She is seen to be in a place named Dadashamakan located near Otteri in northern Chennai. The locality is a predominantly Muslim neighborhood with a population of around 5,000. The area is said to be known for its shops offering a wide variety of food items, particularly attracting regular customers for its “renowned” beef. Locals claim that no other part of the city can match the quality of beef available in Dadashamakan, with prices being comparatively lower than in other areas of Chennai.

In the video, the Puthiya Thalamurai anchor Priya says, “As soon as we enter the street, the fragrance is so appealing. We are in beef lovers’ heaven, Dadashamakan.” The video is interspersed with shots of beef being cooked in various methods, something that would make a vegetarian puke while making a beef lover salivate probably.

One of the members of the Muslim community then describes how the place got its name. “There is a Dada Peer dargah here and makan is an Urdu word, together the name Dadashamakan came to be. Meat shops have been here for the past 50 years.”

Then the Puthiya Thalamurai anchor goes on to find out what varieties of beef-based food she can get and gets a list of items from one of the sellers, a visibly Muslim man. He shows her the various parts of the cow that are converted into different types of food – thigh which is cooked over coal, and undercut piece which is supposed to be soft and relished by kids, apparently, then he shows her the seekh kebab made with minced beef and finally shows her the tawa curry made with small pieces of beef which are consumed with idiyappam and chapati. He also stated that the shop sold food worth ₹20,000-₹25000 per day.

Dadashamakan is said to have hundreds of such shops. The the Puthiya Thalamurai anchor then goes on to explain how the beef is supplied. She says, “They bring a week’s worth of cows from Andhra Pradesh and Vellore and they convert them to beef in a place nearby called Maaduthotti where it is checked for cleanliness and purity and then brought here.”

Then the video shows people eating the beef items, and butchers cutting the beef into pieces, which can get a bit nauseating, as she continues to narrate. She says, “It is said that at least 2000kg of beef is sold per day here.”

One of the shop owners then goes on to justify the “healthy” nature of the beef saying, “Since it is cooked over coals, the cholesterol in the beef is removed and the end product is only meat. So the food only has meat and masala so the customers enjoy it. To add to this, many of them who go to the gym and indulge in fitness regimes come here often. So this place is very famous. The crowd starts to trickle in by 5 PM in the evenings and we close at midnight. “

Following this, Puthiya Thalamurai shows more images and video shots of people offering beef to the viewers as if in a mocking way and eating right on camera.

One of the customers says, “Beef is like a banana plant, the way the entire plant is beneficial to us – be it the leaves, the stem, the banana, the flower, etc, in the same way, each part of cow meat is nutritious, has a lot of protein and is good to eat. I have been eating since my childhood and I like it, so I come here once a week to eat.”

A few more customers are interviewed, and they list the varieties they love eating. The Puthiya Thalamurai host then “explains” why beef is good for health. She says, “Did you know beef has all the nutrients that you need? It has vitamins, iron, minerals, zinc, fats, protein, etc. Doctors say beef can cure anaemia, fatigue, shrinking of skin, and improve immunity.”

They then get a nutritionist to explain how “good” beef is for humans. The nutritionist says, “Since it has high protein content, it can help increase muscles. It also contains Vitamins B6, B12, iron, which help cure issues with brain, nerves, and anaemia. Those who have these issues can benefit from consuming beef. The fat content is very high in beef. So if you have cholesterol issues, kidney disease, liver disease, or heart disease, your body cannot digest this high level of protein and fat. Such people must avoid it.”

And while all this happens, they keep showing video shots of the varieties of beef items.

The video ends with a few seconds showing the anchor relishing the meat and chewing on camera. She says, “This tastes out of the world. It costs less and gives you high protein and only beef can give you that. Beef lovers will find Dadashamakan a beef world.”

This Puthiya Thalamurai video comes at a time when the Tirupati laddu controversy is at its peak. Hindus in Tamil Nadu also observe pitrupaksha or Mahalaya during the Tamil month of Purattasi where they pay respects to their ancestors and avoid eating meat. To share such a video during such a holy period for Hindus is not only insulting but also belittling and not giving space to their emotions. The Puthiya Thalaimurai channel has once again proved its allegiance and loyalty to its Dravidianist masters by posting such a video on its social media.

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Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex Transformed Lives Of Para-Athletes; Shehla Rashid Questions If Waqf Board Has Done Anything

By
The Commune
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The Paris Paralympic Games gave us the highest number of medals ever. Among them was a special victory – for the Mixed Team Compound Open in Archery. This was won by the duo from Jammu – Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar. Here’s a brief profile of the two.

Sheetal Devi

Born on 10 January 2007, in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir, Sheetal Devi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and courage. Despite being born without arms due to a congenital disorder known as phocomelia, Sheetal refused to let her physical limitations define her. Introduced to archery in 2022 at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex, her natural athleticism and determination quickly shone through. Under the mentorship of coaches Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Vedwan, she mastered a unique technique—using her legs, shoulder, and jaw to shoot arrows with a compound bow.

Sheetal’s meteoric rise in the world of para-archery has been nothing short of extraordinary. In her debut season, she secured a silver medal at the World Archery Para Championships in 2023, becoming the first armless female archer to win a medal at the event. She followed this up with two gold medals at the Asian Para Games 2023, cementing her status as one of the world’s top para-archers. At just 17 years old, Sheetal is ranked number one in the world in the women’s compound open category and has her sights set on gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Sheetal’s unwavering belief in herself, combined with her resilience, has inspired millions. Her achievements are a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable with the right mindset and hard work.

Rakesh Kumar

Rakesh Kumar’s journey to becoming a world-class para-archer is one of resilience and determination. Born on January 13, 1985, in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, Rakesh’s life took a tragic turn in 2010 when a severe accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Confined to a wheelchair and facing deep despair, Rakesh found new hope when he was introduced to archery at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in 2017.

With the guidance of coach Kuldeep Kumar, Rakesh discovered a new passion for archery, which quickly transformed his life. Despite financial challenges and limited resources, his dedication to the sport propelled him to the top of the para-archery rankings. In 2023, Rakesh secured a gold medal in the Mixed Team event at the World Archery Para Championships and delivered a stellar performance at the Asian Para Games, establishing himself as one of India’s premier para-athletes.

Rakesh’s story exemplifies the power of resilience, proving that even the toughest obstacles can be overcome with determination and belief in oneself. His achievements are a source of pride for India and an inspiration to those facing adversity.

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex: A Catalyst For Success

Both Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar owe much of their success to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir. The complex, known for identifying and nurturing young talent, played a crucial role in transforming the lives of these para-archers. For Sheetal, the facility offered an introduction to the world of archery and a support system that guided her through her early training. Coaches worked with her unique abilities, customizing equipment and developing techniques that allowed her to thrive in the sport.

Similarly, for Rakesh, the sports complex provided a second chance at life. After his accident, the support of the coaches and training infrastructure gave him the opportunity to develop his skills and pursue a new passion. The focus on individual development and technical training at the complex has helped these athletes rise to the pinnacle of international competition, proving that with the right resources, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.

What Does Waqf Board Contribute To?

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, stands as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring athletes, including para-archers like Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar. This facility, renowned for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and individualized coaching, has played a pivotal role in the lives of these athletes. Through tailored training programs and unwavering support, the complex has nurtured their talents and provided them with a platform to shine on the global stage. The board’s commitment to sports development showcases the power of institutions in fostering both physical and mental strength in young athletes, empowering them to transcend their limitations and aim for international success.

In contrast, the Waqf Board, historically centered around religious and charitable activities, has not prioritized initiatives like sports development in its agenda. While it plays a vital role in managing educational and community welfare projects such as Jamia Hamdard or Waqf Board College in Madurai, TN, the board’s focus remains on traditional forms of social service, often neglecting areas such as sports infrastructure for physically challenged individuals. This lack of emphasis on athletic programs can limit opportunities for individuals with disabilities who may benefit from the same kind of transformative support offered by facilities like the Shrine Board’s sports complex. Encouraging a shift towards including sports and physical development in Waqf’s purview could provide new avenues for empowerment and integration.

https://twitter.com/Shehla_Rashid/status/1838846187111084362

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TN Congress MP’s Direct Appeal To Sri Lankan President Dissanayake On Fishermen Release Raises Eyebrows On Protocol

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The Commune
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TN Congress MP Appeals To Dissanayake On Fishermen Release, bypasses protocol

In an unusual move, newly elected Congress MP R Sudha from Mayiladuthurai constituency has directly petitioned Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to release Indian fishermen, bypassing established diplomatic channels. This unorthodox approach has drawn sharp criticism from political observers and raised questions about protocol in international relations.

MP Sudha’s “open-hearted and open-minded” letter urges President Dissanayake to release Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lankan jails and return their boats as a goodwill gesture. She specifically requested the release of 37 fishermen from her constituency, noting that a total of 80 Indian fishermen and 173 fishing boats are currently in Sri Lankan custody.

The letter criticizes Sri Lanka’s treatment of Indian fishermen, stating, “No country arrests, fines, damages and attacks fishermen from neighbouring countries so regularly as Sri Lanka does.” Sudha argues that fishermen shouldn’t be treated as criminals for operating in shared waters like the Bay of Bengal.

However, this direct communication from a state-level MP to a foreign head of state has been met with significant backlash. Critics label it as “immature” and a breach of diplomatic protocol. They argue that such matters should be addressed through proper channels, involving the Chief Minister, Central-State Minister, or the Indian Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister, who would then engage with the Sri Lankan government.

The controversy highlights the complex nature of the fishing disputes between India and Sri Lanka, as well as the need for adherence to established diplomatic procedures. It also raises questions about the preparedness of newly elected officials in handling sensitive international issues.

This incident has sparked a broader debate about the selection and training of parliamentarians in Tamil Nadu, with some questioning the effectiveness of representatives who may lack experience in navigating complex diplomatic scenarios.

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