On 6 August 2024, the Madras High Court scrutinised the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to detain YouTuber Savukku Shankar under the Tamil Nadu Goondas Act, questioning whether the action was selective.
Justices SM Subramaniam and V Sivagnanam noted that preventive detention is a colonial-era law that should be employed cautiously. They warned that suppressing the voices of media professionals and YouTubers could revert the country to colonial practices. The court remarked, “Preventive detention is a colonial law. Detaining power should be used sparingly. If the voices of YouTubers and media people are strangulated, we’ll return to colonial times. Media is the fourth pillar of democracy.”
The judges suggested that the state should have pursued traditional legal avenues, such as filing a defamation suit, rather than resorting to detention. They described Shankar’s detention as overly harsh and infringing on the fundamental right to free speech.
The bench also commented on the prevalence of false news and questioned whether the state was equally diligent in addressing all instances of misinformation if it justified Shankar’s detention on such grounds. Justice Subramaniam pointed out, “How many people spread false information on TV and media? Have you arrested everyone in similar cases? Is it feasible for the government to chase after everyone spreading false news? How did Shankar’s comments disrupt public order? The issue of false news is widespread. You’ve rightly filed a case; proceed with the trial and seek a conviction, but you cannot stifle freedom of speech.”
The court was considering a habeas corpus petition filed by Shankar’s mother, Kamala, challenging her son’s preventive detention. The Supreme Court recently released Shankar from detention, while Kamala’s petition is pending in the High Court.
Kamala’s attorney argued that the detention was malicious. In response, the state said police detained Shankar for making repeated derogatory statements. He was earlier jailed for contempt of court. They let him go on the condition that he stopped making such remarks, which he allegedly failed to do.
The State’s counsel insisted, “Your lordships are dealing with someone who will never cease. We have intervened.” The court questioned, “How long will you continue to intervene?”
The bench clarified that it did not condone Shankar’s alleged derogatory comments about policewomen. The state also alleged that Shankar used a forged document to accuse corruption in a tender process, which led to public protests and disruptions. The bench expressed scepticism about whether these issues justified invoking the Goondas Act.
Justice Subramaniam commented on the nature of media and debate, questioning whether political channels and televised debates are truly neutral or factual. He also noted that past contempt convictions should not influence current judgments, emphasising a fair evaluation of the case on its merits.
Justice Subramaniam praised Justice GR Swaminathan for his impartiality in handling Shankar’s case despite previously convicting him for contempt. He commended Justice Swaminathan for recognising the wrongful nature of Shankar’s detention.
As the hearing concluded, the court advised the state to concentrate on combating corruption rather than using preventive detention laws against dissenting voices. The bench cautioned that such actions could signal a return to colonial-era practices. The court has reserved its orders on the matter.
The Chennai Cyber Crime Police arrested six individuals under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for allegedly recruiting for Hizb ut-Tahrir in Royapettah. The arrested include Dr. Hameed Hussain, his father Mansoor, brother Abdul Rahman, and their associates Mohammed Maris, Khader Nawaz Sharif, and Ahmed Ali Umari.
The arrests were made following an investigation revealing that the group had used YouTube campaigns to recruit members for Hizb ut-Tahrir, an organisation banned in multiple countries. The Chennai Police submitted all case-related documents to the Tamil Nadu government, prompting the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to register a case and conduct further investigations.
On June 30, the NIA searched 12 locations across Chennai, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, and Trichy. The raids led to the arrest of Abdul Rahman and Mujibur Rahman (also known as Mujibur Rahman Altham Sahib) from Thanjavur district. Authorities seized mobile phones, laptops, SIM cards, memory cards, books, and documents promoting Hizb ut-Tahrir, Khilafah, and Islamic State ideologies.
The NIA’s ongoing investigation indicates that the arrested individuals had recruited members for the internationally banned organisation through their online campaigns. The case has since been transferred from the Central Crime Branch-Cyber Crime Police to the NIA, which handles all related documents and evidence.
Further investigations by the NIA will focus on financial transactions involving the arrested individuals. Officials plan to trace the money flow into their bank accounts and identify other potential beneficiaries. The NIA is also considering taking the six individuals into police custody for further questioning as part of the probe. Re-raids may be conducted based on newly acquired evidence and documents obtained from the initial investigations.
Indian Leftists whitewash Hinduphobic threats in Bangladesh.
As the turmoil in Bangladesh unfolded and the Army took over the reins, violence ensued, and it was the Hindus living in Bangladesh who have been bearing the brunt. Calls for burning and killing Hindus echoed all across the country. Here are some chilling reports:
However, the likes of alleged fact-checker Mohammed Zubair and leftist mouthpieces like The Wire, kept insisting that Hindus were “safe” in Bangladesh. They went above and beyond, bending backwards to prove that Hindus were kept safe.
Here are some posts:
A handle that claims to be “anti-RSS” posted “FAKE NEWS ALERT Taking advantage of the unrest in Bangladesh, BJP IT Cell Coolies in India are spreading Fake News to create Hindu-Muslim unrest. Be Careful #KolkataPolice has already issued notification regarding Fake News and Fake Images. If you see Fake Images or News spread by RW, inform the Police.”
While some news was false, it is a fact that Hindu households were being attacked, some torched. Photos and videos of attacks on Hindus have been circulated since the coup took place.
⚠️ FAKE NEWS ALERT ⚠️
Taking advantage of the unrest in Bangladesh, BJP IT Cell Coolies in India are spreading Fake News to create Hindu Muslim unrest.
In a video interview with Arfa Khanum Sherwani, The Wire‘s Siddharth Varadarajan stated that claims of Hindus in Bangladesh being unsafe were “baseless and stupid“
Chilling
Siddharth Varadarajan of Wire says absolutely nothing to worry for Hindus in Bangladesh
Alleged fact-checker Mohammed Zubair, being the Islamist mouthpiece, bent over backwards to prove his Islamist brothers’ innocence. He already set propaganda that Muslims in Bangladesh were “stepping up” to protect the temples in the country. Well, protect from whom, one wonders.
A lot of Indian Right wing accounts are spreading communal propaganda. Here are images of local Muslims stepping in to protect the temples in Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/WJZNer4ntc
He shared multiple posts to prove this – photos and videos. In this post, he shared a video taken inside a mosque where a Bangladeshi Muslim man is seen making an announcement. He wrote, “A Special Announcement on a loudspeaker from inside the Mosque in Bangladesh. “Dear Citizens, We ‘Students Against Discrimination’ are requesting you, during this period of unrest in the country, We all must maintain communal harmony. We should protect Hindu minorities. Protect their lives and their wealth from miscreants/evil forces. It is your responsibility, our responsibility, and everyone’s responsibility. lets all be vigilant.” “
A Special Announcement on a loudspeaker from inside the Mosque in Bangladesh.
"Dear Citizens, We 'Students Against Discrimination' are requesting you, during this period of unrest in the country, We all must maintain communal harmony. We should protect Hindu minorities.… https://t.co/lPYvfwRI7ppic.twitter.com/lcXTGzZETS
Zubair also reshared a post from an account that was created just a few days ago that Hindus are safe in Bangladesh – all this to shield his co-religionists across the border.
To shield his co-religionists across the border, @zoo_bear is reposting an account that was created this week, and has done only one post so far – that Hindus are safe in Bangladesh
No surprises given he tried to prove a Dalit woman liar for accusing his co-religionists of rape pic.twitter.com/oVSDml2aNa
Another so-called Hindu in Bangladesh claims he is safe when news reports of attacks on Hindu businesses and households keep pouring in.
Stay safe Sir. And I will trust Bangladeshi media over you because you alone don't represent all Hindus spread all over Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/kw8HFifDUw
A Bloomberg reporter even shared a picture of “Bangladesh’s Muslim clerics” who were “voluntarily guarding a Hindu temple in Cumilla after reports of attacks on Hindu communities and their places of worship prompted politicians and protest leaders to call for ‘resisting’ those committing violence.”
Bangladesh’s Muslim clerics are voluntarily guarding a Hindu temple in Cumilla after reports of attacks on Hindu communities and their places of worship prompted politicians and protest leaders to call for 'resisting' those committing violence.
It is very clear that a narrative of the “kind Muslim” helping and safeguarding Hindu temples keeps coming out. Netizens demanded answers from those who claimed Hindus were safe and who shared such posts.
Not this again. Peacefuls have this template down to a pat. Burn down temples, kill and rape Hindus and then a few will guard a temple and that becomes the news. https://t.co/yhHPuvESQJ
As we publish report after report on the situation, more and more videos and news come flooding in from Bangladesh on Hindus and temples being attacked. It is noteworthy that there are over a crore Hindus living in Bangladesh.
TET Teachers Protest In Tiruchy, waiting for jobs since 11 years
(Image Source: The Hindu)
On 5 August 2024, candidates who passed the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) in 2013 protested in Tiruchy, criticising the State government for issuing appointment orders to only 410 candidates while over 40,000 have been waiting for more than 11 years.
The protesters highlighted that despite more than 40,000 candidates clearing the TET in 2013, the government has failed to appoint them. They accused the DMK of breaking its election manifesto promise to appoint TET-cleared candidates. Meanwhile, 410 candidates who pursued legal action were given appointment orders.
“These candidates, who obtained lower marks in the TET, managed to secure employment because they could afford the legal proceedings, leaving the rest still waiting,” said State Coordinator Ilangovan, who led the protest.
He added that they have organised over 60 protests statewide and sent over 2,000 petitions to the Chief Minister’s special cell, yet no action has been taken.
“Struggling for livelihood, we are ready to work for a consolidated payment of Rs 10,000,” he said. Candidates from various districts participated in the protest.
Last year in October 2023, there was also a protest where TET candidates demanded appointments and the cancellation of Government Order 149 (G.O.), enacted by the previous AIADMK government. This order requires these candidates to pass another competitive exam to verify their eligibility.
The TET candidates argue that, according to the 2018 government order (G.O.), those who passed the TET exam needed to take an additional test to be appointed. However, the DMK, in its 2021 poll promise number 177, assured that this order would not prevent these teachers from working since they had already passed the eligibility test five years before the G.O. was issued.
One of the protesters lamented, “Some of us, including myself, have crossed the age limit (57) to be appointed as government teachers. The upper age limit for the second test mandated by the 2018 G.O. is 42, which many aspirants have also exceeded.”
Temporary government school teachers are also protesting for permanent jobs. The protesters claim that Tamil Nadu has not recruited permanent teachers for more than a decade.
In 2019, the government began appointing temporary teachers on 11-month contracts, but these contracts are continuously extended without signs of permanent employment, which would provide the benefits of permanent employee status under India’s labor codes.
As of April 2023, around 10,200 temporary teachers have been working in government schools across the state, handling primary to higher secondary classes since December 2022, according to a report by the New Indian Express.
The teachers argue that Chief Minister MK Stalin’s ruling party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, promised in their 2021 poll manifesto to consider part-time art, music, and physical education teachers for permanent employment in the Department of School Education, but this promise has not been fulfilled.
The protesting teachers have also alleged delays in payments. A primary school headmaster in Thiruvalluvar reported that their salary of ₹12,000 has been delayed by one month since March 2023.
Additionally, SSTA teachers are seeking equal pay for equal work. For more than 10 years, secondary-grade teachers have demanded equal compensation for all teachers hired before and after 31 May 2009, to eliminate disparities in the salary structure. According to The Indian Express, teachers hired on or after 1st June 2009, receive pay that is ₹3,000 less than those hired before that date.
SSTA General Secretary J Robert stated that the DMK government promised in their poll promise number 311 that 20,000 teachers appointed on or before 31 May 2009, would receive equal wages as their colleagues appointed after them. However, this has not been fulfilled despite repeated protests, said the candidates.
Additionally, ANI reported that over 70 teachers were taken to the hospital from the protest site due to deteriorating health conditions.
Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the Minister of School Education, neglecting the genuine candidates mentioned that the government has held three rounds of meetings as a temporary measure and views this not as a protest but as a mechanism for teachers to garner attention.
On 5 August 2024, the Madras High Court directed the State machinery to submit a report detailing the actions taken to remove illegal encroachments on the slopes of Tiruvannamalai Girivalam Hill. The first division bench, composed of acting Chief Justice D Krishnakumar and Justice PB Balaji, considered a public interest litigation filed by advocate Elephant G Rajendran. The litigation seeks the removal of encroachments at the base and slopes of Tiruvannamalai Girivalam hill.
Advocate Elephant Rajendran has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to remove encroachments around the ancient and holy Thamarai Kulam Lake in Tiruvannamalai, which spans over 20 acres. This lake features two ancient mandaps, where during the annual festival of Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple, the deities would be displayed for darshan, attracting thousands of devotees to witness the procession and rituals.
However, the local administration and officials from the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (TNHRCE) department allegedly allowed the four sides of the lake to be encroached upon and failed to address the pollution and occupation of the mandaps. As a result, the annual festivals have not been celebrated in the mandaps and the lake for many years.
The First Bench of the Madras High Court issued directions to the Secretary of the Revenue Department, the Secretary of the Public Works Department, the Commissioner of TNHRCE, and the Tiruvannamalai District Collector to remove all encroachments within two weeks and submit an Action Taken Report to the Court. The State requested additional time to provide the report.
The bench also warned that if the State fails to file the status report, the Court will establish an independent committee to take action. The case has been adjourned for three weeks. The petitioner argued that the hill covers a total area of 718 acres and 35,719 square feet, with several streams channeling rainwater to tanks in Tiruvannamalai City.
The petitioner claimed that illegal buildings constructed in the streams obstruct the natural flow of rainwater. Additionally, the petitioner noted that the path to the top of the mountain, where the maha deepam is lit, has been encroached upon by houses. Specifically, the petitioner highlighted that illegal constructions span about 400 feet from the bottom of the hill’s slope. According to the petitioner, lavatories, bathrooms, and septic tanks have been built on the hill’s slope.
Good news!
Advocate Elephant Rajendran Ji filed a PIL to remove the encroachments around an ancient and holy Lake in Tiruvannamalai measuring more than 20 acres – Thamarai Kulam –
While the Indian government mulls ways to restore peace in Bangladesh, leftists and anarchists have been shamelessly celebrating the chaos that includes violence against minority Hindus there. They posted their anarchist ideas on social media and also tried to call for similar violence in India against PM Narendra Modi.
Riots in Bangladesh as Sheikh Hasina flees for life to India
Thousands of protesters in Bangladesh stormed and looted the official residence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka. This pillaging followed weeks of demonstrations against a controversial government job quota system and her 15-year rule.
The violence on 5 August 2024 saw demonstrators ransacking the official residence, Ganabhaban. Looters took items such as TV sets, furniture, fish, live cattle, and personal belongings. Viral images showed the mob parading with undergarments like bras and blouses.
Sheikh Hasina, 76, is said to have resigned as Prime Minister and fled to India, landing at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad. The military assumed control of Bangladesh after her resignation, with plans to form an interim government announced by army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman. The protests, which have been ongoing for over a month, have resulted in at least 300 deaths.
The unrest persisted despite the partial rollback of the job quota scheme by Bangladesh’s top court. Reports estimated that around 400,000 protesters were on the streets of Dhaka, defying curfew and breaching security barriers. Additionally, protesters vandalized a statue of Sheikh Hasina’s father, former President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and caused significant damage to the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.
Further violence included the vandalism of the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre and minor damage to four Hindu temples.
Leftists & Anti-nationals Justify Unrest & Call For “Similar Situation” In India
As expected, anti-nationals and leftists in the garb of “journalists” justified the coup and the anarchy that followed stating that a “dictator” (Sheikh Hasina) who had allegedly “rigged” elections would see this fate. This was a blatant attempt to incite violence in India and justify the violent protests led by Islamists in Bangladesh.
Former Pakistani cricketer Danish Kaneria warned Indians to be cautious as some people in India were hoping for a Bangladesh-like scenario. He added,“Guard against those trying to incite unrest for their own agendas.”
India, be cautious: Some inside your nation are hoping for a Bangladesh-like scenario. Guard against those trying to incite unrest for their own agendas. pic.twitter.com/P6gLnvxC12
Upon hearing the news of the coup in Bangladesh, so-called science journalist Vidya Krishnan, who spread lies and misinformation during the Covid pandemic, wished for a similar situation in India. She wrote, “Upar wala aise din humein bhi dikhaye”
An alleged writer and a mouthpiece of the leftists and Islamists, Saba Naqvi, wrote,“Sheikh Hasina reportedly rigged an electionand hence this tragic unravelling in #Bangladesh is happening. There’s a message in here for all democracies and institutions meant to guard people’s mandate. Jai Hind.”
Sheikh Hasina reportedly rigged an election and hence this tragic unravelling in #Bangladesh is happening. There’s a message in here for all democracies and institutions meant to guard people’s mandate. Jai Hind.
Leftist portal, The Wire’s founder Siddharth Varadarajan wrote,“People wondering at the fury should remember the backstory: the rigged election earlier this year which allowed Hasina to stay in power. A leader rigs an election when they know they’re beat. She deprived the people of the chance of ousting her through the ballot box. So they’re now finding other means.”
People wondering at the fury in🇧🇩should remember the backstory: the rigged election earlier this year which allowed Hasina to stay in power. A leader rigs an election when they know they're beat. She deprived the people of the chance of ousting her through the ballot box. So…
He also alleged that“India’s inability to say something, anything, about today’s developments in Bangladesh, is testimony to the utter mess the Modi government has made of its Bangladesh policy. It has been one of the strongest backers of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian rule and India may well pay a price for this.”
India's inability to say something, anything, about today's developments in Bangaldesh, is testimony to the utter mess the Modi government has made of its Bangladesh policy. It has been one of the strongest backers of Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian rule and India may well pay a…
The Wire’s “founding editor” MK Venu also peddled the same propaganda. He wrote,“Bangladesh anarchy is caused by brazen manipulation of elections, treating opposition as enemies and destroying them, stifling free press and dissent. All this accompanied by 40% plus unemployment among age 15 to 24 youth!”
Bangladesh anarchy is caused by brazen manipulation of elections, treating opposition as enemies and destroying them, stifling free press and dissent. All this accompanied by 40% plus unemployment among age 15 to 24 youth!
Alleged writer and journalist Rana Ayyub wrote,“Hubris has been the undoing of the most powerful leaders in the world. South Asian leaders like Rajapaksa, Sheikh Hasina and others are testimony“
Hubris has been the undoing of the most powerful leaders in the world. South Asian leaders like Rajapaksa, Sheikh Hasina and others are testimony
Alleged historian, Irfan Habib also justified the developments. He wrote,“Sheikh Hasina had been a great disappointment. She had an opportunity to take the progressive politics forward butover the years she turned authoritarian. In the name of keeping her political rivals at bay she crushed democratic rights. What has now happened was inevitable.”
Sheikh Hasina had been a great disappointment. She had an opportunity to take the progressive politics forward but over the years she turned authoritarian. In the name of keeping her political rivals at bay she crushed democratic rights. What has now happened was inevitable .
— S lrfan Habib एस इरफान हबीब عرفان حبئب (@irfhabib) August 5, 2024
The Wire “journalist”, Arfa Khanum Sherwani, called the act of calling out the violence and anarchy as “demonising”. She wrote, “The new Sanghi playbook is now demonizing the Bangladeshi protestors. They didn’t have a problem with the dictator Hasina but they are hating on the democratic takeover. The reality is that they hate democracy and any democratic expression, at home and abroad.”
The new Sanghi playbook is now demonizing the Bangladeshi protestors. They didn’t have a problem with the dictator Hasina but they are hating on the democratic takeover. The reality is that they hate democracy and any democratic expression, at home and abroad.
Iltija Mufti, the daughter of Mehbooba Mufti, wanted to know “for a friend” if,“Does Lok Kalyan Marg have a swimming pool as well? Asking for a friend“
Does Lok Kalyan Marg have a swimming pool as well? Asking for a friend 🤔 https://t.co/mceg3ftS6X
By calling the elections rigged and addressing Bangladesh’s PM (former) as a dictator, the leftist mouthpieces in India are justifying that the coup and the subsequent violence and anarchy are correct and that it would be good to have such protests and developments in India as well.
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amidst escalating protests and arrived at Ghaziabad’s Hindon Air Base near New Delhi aboard a C-130 Hercules aircraft.
Following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure from Bangladesh amid widespread protests, the Modi-led Indian government convened an all-party meeting on 6 August 2024 to discuss the country’s current political turmoil.
Key Union ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, attended the 10 AM meeting.
On 5 August 2024, Bangladesh reported that clashes between demonstrators and members of the Awami League resulted in the deaths of at least 96 people due to police gunfire.
According to Dhaka Tribune, unrest on Monday claimed the lives of at least 135 people in Bangladesh, involving police shootings, mob attacks, and arson incidents across the nation.
Following clashes between police and troublemakers on Monday, at least 18 people were killed on the outskirts of the capital, specifically in the Savar and Dhamrai areas.
Prothom Alo, citing sources from Dhaka Medical College Hospital, reported that 500 individuals were admitted with injuries, including gunshot wounds, with 70 of them remaining hospitalized.
After Sheikh Hasina departed from Bangladesh, reports from local media indicated that individuals entered the Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister’s residence, and were seen leaving with various items. There were also reports of people entering the Parliament building and taking items from within.
What Are Sheikh Hasina’s Contributions To Bangladesh?
While leftist voices echo Western sentiments, the reality presents a different narrative. Notable achievements in several critical areas have marked Sheikh Hasina’s tenure:
Economic Growth
Under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, Bangladesh has consistently maintained a robust GDP growth rate, exceeding 6% and reaching over 8% in recent years. This growth trajectory has positioned Bangladesh to become a middle-income country.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge, Dhaka Metro Rail, highways, and power plants have significantly bolstered connectivity and economic activities nationwide.
Poverty Reduction & Social Development
The government’s initiatives in social safety nets, poverty alleviation programs, and digital literacy through the Digital Bangladesh program have notably reduced poverty rates and empowered communities.
Industrial Growth and Export Expansion
The Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector has flourished, making Bangladesh the second-largest exporter globally. Government policies supporting industrial growth, export diversification, and economic zones have attracted substantial foreign investment.
Women Empowerment
Efforts to enhance women’s access to education, microfinance, and employment opportunities have not only advanced gender equality but also contributed to economic growth by integrating more women into the workforce.
Handling the Rohingya Crisis
Humanitarian Response
In 2017, Bangladesh opened its borders to Rohingya refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar, demonstrating a solid commitment to human rights and earning international acclaim for its compassion.
International Advocacy
Sheikh Hasina has been a prominent advocate for Rohingya rights in international forums, urging global action for their safe return to Myanmar.
Resource Mobilization
Collaborating with international organizations and NGOs, Bangladesh has mobilized resources to provide essential aid, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education to Rohingya refugees despite resource constraints.
Diplomatic Efforts
Sheikh Hasina’s administration has actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to pressure Myanmar for the safe repatriation of Rohingya refugees and sought international sanctions against Myanmar for their human rights violations.
Countering Extremism & Ensuring Security
Security Measures
The government has implemented rigorous counter-terrorism measures, enhancing security forces, intelligence capabilities, and legal frameworks to combat radical groups like JMB and Ansarullah Bangla Team.
Community Engagement And De-radicalization
Programs promoting moderate Islamic teachings, community engagement, and socio-economic development have been pivotal in mitigating radicalization and promoting societal harmony.
International Cooperation And Judicial Actions
Bangladesh has collaborated closely with international partners, including India, the United States, and regional organizations, to combat terrorism through strengthened laws and judicial actions.
Efficient Check On China’s Influence
Sheikh Hasina’s administration has navigated China’s diplomacy strategically and pragmatically. She maximized mutual benefits from bilateral engagements while protecting Bangladesh’s interests.
In summary, despite facing various challenges and criticisms, Sheikh Hasina’s tenure has substantial achievements across economic development, humanitarian efforts, security enhancements, and diplomatic engagements.
In the spellbinding world of Carnatic music, where notes dance like celestial beings, Ranjani and Gayatri emerge as twin stars, whose voices intertwine in sublime harmony. These Mumbai-born, Chennai-nurtured sisters have, for over two decades, painted the canvas of Indian classical music with strokes of familial love and artistic brilliance. Their journey, a melodious weave woven with threads of shared values and guru-given wisdom, exemplifies the magical synergy born of sisterhood.
Like the intricate patterns in a Kanjivaram silk, their partnership balances the warp of individual expression with the weft of collaborative resonance. Through the bhava-laden aalaps and lightning-fast brigas of Carnatic music, Ranjani and Gayatri navigate the delicate ragas of their relationship, their mutual respect and trust creating a symphony as beautiful as their music. Theirs is a tale not just of vocal prowess but of a harmonious dance between two souls, united by blood and divine music, in the grand concert hall of life.
The Commune caught up with Ranjani and Gayatri through this email interview. Read on…
The Commune: How did you two become an inseparable duo? What is the one thing that holds you both together?
Ranjani, Gayatri (RaGa): It seems natural that being sisters would be the best way to be artistic partners, nurtured with the same values from birth, learning from the same guru. Being together all through the formative years will create such a bond and sync in understanding and ideation. However, this is also challenged by the reality of ‘familiarity breeds contempt. Between the kinship of sisterhood and the highly individualistic pursuit and expression that music inherently is, there is a lot of middle ground to negotiate. What makes it work is that we respect the same musical and ethical values, respect, trust, and support each other, and agree to disagree after each argument.
The Commune: Mumbai or Chennai?
RaGa: That is a difficult one to answer. Vada Pav or Sambar Idly? Mumbai is our janma bhoomi, Chennai our karma bhoomi. Mumbai has given us broad exposure to many genres of music, different languages and their sounds, a drive, andan aspirational attitude. Chennai audiences have the ability to spot and nurture worthy talent early on, and their discerning support has been valuable in our professional journey.
The Commune: Do you still practice playing the Violin, ordo youjust take it out during Saraswati Pooja and Vijayadasami?
RaGa: Unfortunately, the latter these days. The violin is an immensely demanding instrument that requires constant arduous practice, which we cannot commit to right now. It is fascinating that destiny keeps throwing up unexpected opportunities to return to our first love. Once, we were compelled to cancel a concert because of one of us being down with a severe throat infection, and the organizers pleaded with us not to cancel. So, with barely a 12-hour notice, we had to brush up our violin skills and prepare for a three-hour violin concert. We were surprised that those 12 hours cleared up years of rust, revealing underneath the strength of 12+ years of violin performance in the earlier part of life. Here is a clip from that concert, which turned out to be a memorable one for us!
The Commune: You’ve accompanied legends like DK Pattamal and Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna. Tell us about that experience. What do you admire about them? What did you learn from them?
Ra-Ga: We have learned different things from each artist we have accompanied. We were very young when we shared performance space with legends like Smt Pattammal and Sri Balamuralikrishna. It was more like a blessing to play the violin alongside them. Smt Pattammal was so gracious, loving, and warm, as she generously appreciated our music.
We recall the sincerity, earnestness, and shraddha with which she sang at 80! Balamuralikrishna ji gently tested me (Gayatri, then 13) in the first few minutes of the concert, gauging and then amplifying the complexity when he felt I could handle the challenge. He radiated a positivity, happiness, and playful yet intense demeanour that was uniquely his. The way these legends happily made space for us andallowed us to soar was a huge inspiration.
The Commune: What language gels well with Carnatic music—Tamil, Telugu, or Sanskrit?
RaGa: The more you internalise a language, learn songs in it, and become familiar with its nuances, the more you grow to love it. Tamizh being our mother tongue, becomes intuitive to emote and express, especially when we sing viruthams. Sanskrit, a classical language, is a natural fit for Indian classical music. Muthuswamy Dikshitar’s compositions exemplify the ideal combination of Sanskrit and classical music. However, Telugu is one of the most pleasing and musical of languages, hence a major part of the mainstream Carnatic compositions is in this language. Tyagaraja, Shyama Sastry, and many others have composed such timeless gems in Telugu that bring together language, poetry, music, and emotion, and hence to us, Telugu is music to our ears in more ways than one!
The Commune: From your social media posts, we see that you’re a big fan of PM Modi, Annamalai, and the BJP. When did RaGa become political? What triggered you?
Ra-Ga:It is incorrect to brand our candid appreciation of some leaders as becoming ‘political‘. If that is so, then 80 crore Indians or whatever the number is, all voters are political. And, yes, we reiterate our respect and support for our PM and Annamalaiji. As Indians, we feel inspired and motivated by their vision, integrity, and hard work.
The Commune: What’s the worst thing that ever happened to you, and how did you overcome it?
Ra-Ga: We can’t really term it as a “worst thing”, but something that we see as a part of the real, though unfair world. And we haven’t overcome that. It is the opportunity costs we pay for not doing any active ‘PR work’. There are losses in terms of ‘positioning’ and ‘opinion making’. We have more than once heard about editorial powers watering down articles when superlatives were writtenorcover stories were proposed. They block it out, saying, “What is the hurry (to print superlatives)? Let some more time go” (before giving any spotlight). That extends to other institutional recognitions, too. Sangeet Natak Academy announced Yuva Puraskar for us when we were almost 40, and we learned it from their Press release! (Ranjani Gayatri declined the award in 2014, requesting that the Sangeet Natak Academy consider upcoming young artists for the same).
We were oblivious to the need and value of such active work, which helped our single-minded focus on music. At this point, we believe working in this direction of PR is unnecessary and in conflict with our artistic pursuits. But social media’s emergence and its democratic power help us. Another truth we can’t overcome is gender. Our best concerts used to be appreciated with comments, “Aha, how classical! AambaLa paaTTu” (meaning man’s music). It implies that only men can deliver certain standards of cerebrally engaging performance. It has faded from the audible zone, but we can still hear it!
The Commune: Do you follow Gen-Z pop culture? Favourite movies/series?
Ra-Ga:Interestingly, you mention Gen-Z. While we aren’t tuned fully to Gen Z, we find a good lot of them have tuned to our music. We meet a lot of youngsters from this generation at our concerts and interact with quite a few of them post-concert. A good number of the audience in our concerts is between the ages of 6 and 25, and how they immerse themselves fully into the concert experience is something! We look forward to their engaging post-concert notes, reels, andwhat they share as their favourite snippets. Gen Z is a forthright and expressive generation.
The Commune: There is always this criticism that the Brahmins created Carnatic music for the Brahmins. Even today, the Sabhas and the performers are dominated by Brahmins. What are your thoughts?
Ra-Ga: Shouldn’t the question be, “How is it that Brahmins are still managing to protect and nurture this art that pays so little and takes a long and arduous journey to achieve decent success?” It is reverse casteism to raise such questions repeatedly. These charges are triggered by agenda-driven activists and amplified by lazy writers who perhaps unwittingly become tools in the hands of hate-mongering political groups. Has any caste-based group opposed, insulted, orprevented any artistic pursuit of people from other communities? Has any organized group of musicians refused to teach and share their knowledge based on caste? This field has a minuscule base of followers. Carnatic music does not offer financial success comparable to popular arts. Carnatic musicians are regularly caricatured as jokers singing “tha dha rina” in popular movies.
With all this, who would aspire to be a Carnatic musician? All serious artists, including those in Carnatic music, focus intensely on their art. It is absurd to expect them to be loud activists. Accusing them of being casteists and opponents of change is fundamentally dishonest and a perversion of truth. Loud activism achieves smart manipulation of the media narratives. The only transformation that is evident is in the fortunes of so-called activists. They also partially succeed in distorting reality and damaging the art-oriented focus of unsuspecting artists. Most journalists do not research before buying into such narratives. Perhaps this helps them feel good about contributing to “Instant Social Justice”. If you observe the film world, despite the blatant nepotism, real talents win big. The number of winners is proportional to the number of aspirants. Success in art can only be democratic.
The Carnatic music world celebrates all greats, from Madurai Somu to Chinna Moulana, from Mandolin Srinivas to TN Rajaratnam Pillai, andfrom Ilaiyaraja to Rashid Khan. Not just the Semmangudis and GNBs. Nandanar Charitram has been most celebrated on the Carnatic music stage for decades. In summary, we say, “Change your glass. Do some honest homework. Stop being shills to divisive political groups”.
The Commune: You’ve many fans. Who are you a fan of?
Ranjani, Gayatri:N Rajam, KV Narayanaswamy, Kapil Dev, the Williams Sisters, PG Wodehouseto name a few.
The Commune: Biggest critic?
Ranjani, Gayatri: Ourselves, our family.
Subscribe to our channels onTelegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on 4 August 2024 that his government will introduce a stringent law against Love Jihad, with lifetime imprisonment as the punishment. Speaking at a BJP state executive meeting in Guwahati, he also revealed plans for a domicile policy restricting government jobs to those born in Assam and imposing restrictions on land sales to Muslims.
Addressing the audience at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, CM Sarma stated, “We will bring a new law in the next few days to convert the punishment for love jihad to life imprisonment,” receiving applause from the crowd.
He further announced a new law to protect land owned by Indigenous people in Assam. This law will require the Chief Minister’s permission for inter-religious land sales, emphasising that a Muslim wishing to buy land from a Hindu or vice versa will need the CM’s approval. “The land transfer can happen only after permission from the CM,” he stressed.
In areas of the undivided Goalpara district, a special provision will be enacted to prevent land sales to people from a specific community. This will aim to protect the land owned by Indigenous people, who have become a minority in these regions.
CM Sarma also revealed plans for a law to safeguard the land rights of tribal communities. This law will create micro-tribal belts and blocks in areas inhabited by tribals and other backward communities.
Fulfilling an election promise, CM Sarma announced a domicile law reserving government jobs for those born in Assam. He explained that this move addresses the state’s changing demography, describing it as a “huge concern” and a “matter of life and death.” He assured that the new domicile policy would be implemented within the next two months.
Additionally, the Chief Minister announced a law to protect land owned by religiously significant sites in Barpeta, Bordowa, and Majuli. Only residents can purchase land in these areas, and people from other parts of Assam are even restricted from settling there. He mentioned that,re locations could be added to this provision based on public suggestions, mo.
“We can’t push anyone to Bangladesh, but we will take every step within our power to protect our future,” CM Sarma concluded.
असम सरकार Land Jihad और Love Jihad को रोकने के लिए दो क़ानून ला रही है।
1️⃣ अगर कोई मुस्लिम हिंदू की संपत्ति ख़रीदना चाहता है या कोई हिंदू मुस्लिम की संपत्ति ख़रीदना चाहता है, तो उसे सरकारी अनुमति लेनी होगी।
August 5 is a landmark day in India, especially since several historic decisions and steps were taken on this day over the years in the Modi era. Article 370 was abrogated on 5 August 2019.
While there is a debate on whether the move was good for the country and Kashmir as such, we take a look at 17 “firsts” that were possible because of the abrogation.
Tribals Of J&K Got Equal Rights
The abrogation of Article 370 ended decades-long discrimination against tribal communities like the Gujjar-Bakerwal and Gaddi-Sippi in Jammu and Kashmir, granting them equal rights for the first time since Independence. This change empowered these communities, protected their land, improved education, and uplifted their socio-economic status.
Following the abrogation, the central government implemented key initiatives, including implementing the Forest Rights Act, establishing milk villages, developing transit accommodations, and creating seasonal schools and hostels. The government also supported tribal women and established Tribal Chairs in educational institutes.
Double-Lane Bridge In Ladakh
In August 2020, the Union Territory of Ladakh got its first double-lane motorable bridge at Choglamsar.
Electricity Supply In Ladakh
In November 2020, Photoksar village in Leh district, Ladakh, received electricity for the first time since India’s Independence, bringing immense joy to its residents. The power grid line was attributed to initiatives like the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The electrification enhanced children’s education and overall living conditions.
Industrial Development Scheme
In January 2021, the administration of Jammu and Kashmir announced a new Industrial Developmental Scheme (IDS), with a substantial outlay of ₹28,400 crore aimed at promoting investment and fostering industrial growth at the block level for the first time in history. The initiative would transform the industrial landscape, bringing significant socio-economic benefits to the area.
Domicile Certificate
In July 2021, the Jammu and Kashmir administration announced a significant amendment to the Domicile Act, allowing non-state subject spouses of native women to obtain domicile certificates. Previously ineligible, spouses can secure domicile based on their partner’s status. The new policy ensures gender equality, addressing a long-standing issue where women who married outside the UT faced discrimination. It happened because Article 37o was abrogated.
Investments Pour Into J&K
For the first time in India’s history post-independence, the UAE became a significant investor in Jammu and Kashmir’s development in January 2022. In October 2021, both governments signed an MoU to develop real estate, industrial parks, and super-speciality hospitals. In January 2022, an agreement with the LuLu Group aimed to establish a food processing and logistics hub in Srinagar, facilitating the reach of J&K products to LuLu Hypermarkets across the Gulf.
Women Empowerment
For the first time since Independence, abrogation of Article 370 led to women being given 15% reservation in non-gazetted cadre in J&K Police on 27 January 2022.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha made this announcement on National Girl Child Day. This move aims to empower women and increase their representation. It also addresses long-standing inequalities and enhances the handling of gender-based crimes.
Data Connectivity In Ladakh
In June 2022, Reliance Jio launched 4G voice and data services in Spangmik village near Pangong Lake, becoming the first operator to provide 4G connectivity. This was a long-standing local demand and enhanced connectivity for tourists and troops. In May 2022, Jio started services in Kanji, Urbis, Hanupatta, and Chunglungkha villages. This project wouldn’t have been executed so well if the Centre hadn’t abrogated Article 370.
National Rowing Championship
In June 2022, the first-ever National Rowing Championship in J&K UT at SKICC was inaugurated. This event follows the historic ‘First Chess Olympiad Torch Relay.‘ The Nehru Park Water Sports Center, offering world-class facilities, trains 400 children daily and has contributed to 100 national-level medals in the last three years. Another water sports centre is being developed in Basohli, Jammu.
GI Tag For Ladakh Apricot
In December 2022, theLadakh “Raksey Karpo” apricot received its first geographical identification (GI) tag.
J&K Tourism
For the first time in the history of J&K, 1.88 crore tourists visited the UT in the previous year, 2022.
Electricity Supply In Kashmir
In January 2023, residents of Tethan in Dooru block, Anantnag district, received electricity for the first time in 75 years under the centrally sponsored PM Development Package scheme. The village, with a population of 200, had relied on traditional wood and candlelight until now. The electrification brought immense joy, with residents celebrating and expressing gratitude to the government and power department. The project included installing a 63 KV transformer, 38 High-Tension lines, and 57 LT poles, providing electricity to 60 houses.
Jammu Tourism
The first Tulip Garden in the Jammu division was inauguratedat Sanasar in April 2023. The garden is spread over 40 Kanals. It has 2.75 lakh tulip bulbs of 25 varieties situated amid lush green woods in the Ramban district.
Kupwara Tourism
In May 2023, J&K Road Transport Corporation started tourist bus services for the first time to Teetwal near the Line of Control in Kupwara to promote border and religious tourism. This followed the inauguration of Maa Sharda Devi Temple.
Poonch To Srinagar Tourism
In May 2023, the first-ever J&K Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) deluxe bus service from Poonch to Srinagar via Mughal Road was flagged off. Mughal Road, an alternate route connecting Jammu and Kashmir divisions, recently reopened for one-way traffic after delays due to inclement weather conditions.
Cinema Halls In Baramulla & Handwara
In July 2023, two 100-seater Multipurpose Cinema halls were inaugurated in Baramulla and Handwara, marking the return of cinema to Baramulla after over three decades. These halls, established under a Public-Private Partnership, offer recreational facilities, a café, VR, and seminar spaces.
Mobile Tower In Kupwara
In August 2023, on the fourth anniversary of Article 370’s abrogation, Machil village in Kashmir celebrated receiving its first mobile tower, an Airtel installation. This marked a significant advancement in the village’s communication infrastructure, which had long lacked mobile connectivity.
Subscribe to our channels onTelegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
