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Communist-Backed Labour Organizations Turning TN Into Bengal & Kerala To Disrupt India’s Manufacturing Ambitions At The Behest Of China?

By
The Commune
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CITU Samsung Protests: A Trojan Horse For China's Manufacturing Dominance?

The ongoing strike at Samsung’s factory in Tamil Nadu is yet another example of how union-backed protests, especially those supported by Communist parties, can disrupt industrial operations in India. About 1,500 workers from the South Korean tech giant’s Chennai plant, one of Samsung’s two major factories in India, have halted production for weeks. The workers, represented by the newly formed Samsung India Labour Welfare Union (SILWU), are demanding better wages, improved working conditions, and, most importantly, formal recognition of their union.

This protest, which has seen daily gatherings of workers in Samsung uniforms, has led to significant production slowdowns, impacting the company’s ability to meet demand for consumer goods like air conditioners, refrigerators, and televisions. The Chennai plant contributes a substantial portion of Samsung’s $12 billion annual revenue in India, making the disruptions a costly affair.

The striking workers, supported by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) – the labour wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) – are pushing for wage hikes, improved conditions, and union recognition. They argue that Samsung’s current wage of approximately ₹25,000 per month ($298) does not account for rising living costs. CITU has been vocal in accusing Samsung of mistreating workers by forcing them to meet unrealistic production targets and providing unsafe working conditions. While Samsung denies these allegations, the protests have escalated to the point where the company has had to rely on temporary workers to maintain minimal operations.

This isn’t the first time Communist-backed unions have disrupted international companies operating in India. These strikes raise concerns about India’s ability to retain foreign investment, particularly in manufacturing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to attract foreign manufacturers—positioning India as an alternative to China—are now at risk as these protests continue to generate negative publicity and disrupt business operations.

Fire Accidents At Factories In India

A fire at Tata Group’s Apple iPhone component plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, caused a production halt, affecting the supply of iPhone back panels and other parts for Foxconn and Tata’s iPhone assembly lines. The damage comes at a critical time, ahead of India’s festive season, potentially disrupting 10-15% of iPhone 14 and 15 sales in the country. Tata is the only Indian supplier of these components, and Apple may need to source parts from China to meet demand. Tata exported over $250 million worth of iPhones and components in the year leading up to August 2024. Although Apple reportedly has stock for eight weeks, the prolonged suspension could lead to shifting production back to China.

Some of the other incidents at factories in India in the recent past include:

  • Fire incidents at Foxlink and Pegatron plants in India – led to brief operational halts in the past, with Foxlink’s facility lacking functional fire safety equipment.
  • Labour unrest at the Wistron and Foxconn plants has affected production in India in recent years.

Impact Of Communist Labour Unions: Driving Business Away?

The strike at Samsung’s Chennai plant is reminiscent of the violent protests at the Wistron iPhone factory near Bengaluru in 2020. In that instance, employees protested against poor working conditions and wage delays. The disruption caused significant damage to the factory, leading to a temporary shutdown and production delays. In 2023, Wistron exited Apple India’s business.

Communist-backed unions justified these protests, which were costly not just for the company but also for India’s image as a stable manufacturing hub.

These events have raised alarms for multinational corporations looking to shift their production from China to India. Apple, one of the companies planning a large-scale move to India, experienced significant setbacks due to these protests. The Chinese government, alongside its state-run media, used the unrest as a propaganda tool to deter other businesses from leaving China. Reports from Chinese outlets highlighted how “unstable” labour conditions in India make it an unreliable destination for companies looking to diversify their supply chains away from China.

Could CITU’s Role Push Factories Back To China Or Other Countries?

CITU’s involvement in these labour disputes is part of a broader trend where Communist-backed unions seek dominance over factory operations, often leading to aggressive tactics that disrupt production. These disruptions don’t only hurt the companies involved but also damage India’s broader efforts to become a global manufacturing powerhouse.

Multinational corporations, including Apple and Samsung, have been moving some of their production lines to India to diversify away from China. However, the instability caused by union-backed protests might push these companies to reconsider their choices. Chinese propaganda channels have already leveraged these strikes to their advantage, portraying India as an unstable option for global manufacturing. Such narratives and the real financial losses caused by these strikes could deter companies from investing further in India or even prompt them to scale back their operations.

The Broader Picture: India’s Challenge

As India seeks to present itself as a viable alternative to China for global manufacturers, it faces significant challenges from within. The Samsung protests highlight a critical issue: the influence of politically backed unions, particularly those with Communist affiliations, which can cause long-term disruptions to foreign investment. While India offers a large, cost-effective workforce, protests such as these send mixed signals to foreign investors about the country’s ability to maintain stable industrial relations.

The Tamil Nadu government has attempted to mediate talks between the workers and Samsung, but progress has been slow. Meanwhile, CITU’s hardline stance suggests that the protest will continue until the union’s demands are met, adding further strain to the situation.

For foreign companies operating in India, the risk of strikes and labour disputes—exacerbated by the growing influence of Communist-backed unions—remains a significant concern. Without proper intervention and resolution, India could see more multinational corporations reconsider their plans to shift operations from China, undermining the country’s potential as a global manufacturing hub.

As the Samsung strike enters its fourth week, it’s clear that India faces an uphill battle in balancing the interests of foreign investors with the demands of local workers. If the country fails to address these labour issues swiftly, it may lose out on the foreign investment it has been courting so aggressively in recent years. Ultimately, the biggest beneficiaries of this unrest could be China (or other countries), which are watching India’s struggles with keen interest.

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All ‘Thieves’ Have Got Together: MUDA Petitioner On JD-S Leader Supporting Siddaramaiah

By
The Commune
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MUDA Scam By CM Siddaramaiah and petitioning Activist Krishna

After senior JD-S legislator GT Deve Gowda extended support to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Snehamayi Krishna, one of the petitioners in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case, said that “all thieves have got together”.

Speaking to media persons at the Lokayukta office, Snehamayi Krishna stated on Friday, “JD-S MLA Gowda is a beneficiary of the 50:50 ratio scheme in the MUDA which is a matter of investigation.

“Gowda is making such a statement fearing action. It is expected that thieves will make more statements on these lines in the coming days,” he said. “All the thieves have formed a gang to protect their interests,” the MUDA petitioner said.

Krishna questioned what Gowda did for three months and why he had come out after the inauguration of the Dussehra festival.

“There is information that a site was allotted to the son of Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa’s brother. Another close associate of CM Siddaramaiah Mari Gowda had got the plot for his brother through the sale deed. The information in this regard has also been given to officers,” he stated.

In a surprising development, Gowda on Thursday lashed out at his party leader and Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, and advised him to focus on getting central grants for Karnataka instead of CM Siddaramaiah’s resignation.

“We are all living in glass houses. Has the court sought his resignation? If the people against whom FIRs have been lodged have to tender their resignations, will those in the JD-S be ready to tender resignations from their posts?” Gowda questioned taking a swipe at the Union Minister.

“If Kumaraswamy is asked to resign, will he submit his resignation? Is it possible for CM Siddaramaiah who became CM after winning 136 seats to resign? Is it possible to tender a resignation, if asked?” Gowda stated.

Praising the Chief Minister, Gowda stated, “Siddaramaiah is the blessed son of goddess Chamundeshwari. He started his political career from the Chamundeshwari constituency and has grown to become a Chief Minister twice.” Reacting to the development, Kumaraswamy stated that he had sought the resignation of the CM not due to the filing of an FIR against him but for “misuse” of power.

“Gowda is no one to vouch for CM Siddaramaiah,” the Union Minister maintained. “The evidence was destroyed by officers in the CM Siddaramaiah case and that is why his resignation is being demanded. Let G. T. Deve Gowda speak in favour of CM Siddaramaiah. They are up to something against me,” he claimed.

–IANS

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SC Refuses To Stay Gujarat’s Anti-Encroachment Drive Near Somnath Temple

By
The Commune
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SC Refuses To Stay Gujarat's Anti-Encroachment Drive Near Somnath Temple

The Supreme Court on Friday declined to pass any order staying the demolition drive initiated by the Gujarat administration in the state’s Gir-Somnath district.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta apprised a bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan that although several authorities were approached for an interim injunction, no relief was ever granted.

SG Mehta added that the Gujarat High Court, in a detailed hearing held on Thursday, declined to pass any status quo order, after a petition was “heard at length” in which “dictation of order continued till 4 o’clock”.

The apex court was dealing with a plea filed by the Samast Patni Muslim Jamat seeking contempt action against state authorities for carrying out a demolition drive in utter disrespect to the SC order that had paused all demolition actions across the country, except with its permission.

“We will not issue notice; you only file your reply,” the bench told SG Mehta, who appeared on behalf of the Gujarat government. The Supreme Court said it will not pass any status quo order at the present stage, but if it is later found that demolitions were carried out in violation of its order, it will “send authorities to jail and ask them to restore the position as it was.”

The matter will be heard next on October 16. The plea, filed through advocate Anas Tanwir, said that the demolition of centuries-old Muslim places of worship, including mosques, Edgars, dargahs, mausoleums, and residential places of Mutawallis, was carried out on September 28 without “issuing any notices for such demolition and without granting any opportunity of hearing.”

It contended that “Haji Mangroli Shah Baba’s tomb and surrounding graveyards have existed since the time of the State of Junagadh, with the matter of their ownership and usage being resolved as early as 1903 by a legal resolution passed under the supervision of the Colonel J. M. Hunter Commission. This land, measuring 57 acres and 01 gunthas, was allotted to the Muslim community with legal sanction, recognising its sanctity as a burial ground and religious site”.

The state action, which began on September 27, targeted unauthorised structures near the famous Somnath temple, with the aim of paving the way for the proposed Somnath Development Project.

According to the district administration, illegal structures had been constructed without permission on land owned by the Shree Somnath Trust, which oversees the temple’s operations and the Gujarat government.

In January this year, Gujarat authorities initiated a large-scale anti-encroachment operation targeting approximately three hectares (7.4 acres) of illegally occupied land behind the Somnath temple in the district.

Somnath temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval town on the Arabian Sea coast, is of immense religious and cultural importance.

It is believed to be the foremost among the 12 jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and serves as a primary pilgrimage site and tourist attraction.

–IANS

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The Pakistani Influence In USCIRF Report On India Exposed

By
The Commune
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The Pakistani Influence In USCIRF Report On India Exposed

In its annual report, the USCIRF has recommended designating India as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to “severe violations of religious freedom.” The report points to incidents of violence against religious minorities and the demolition of homes and places of worship, claiming that India’s legal framework—particularly laws like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and various state-level anti-conversion regulations—disenfranchises these communities.

The USCIRF stated, “Throughout 2024, individuals have been killed, beaten, and lynched by vigilante groups; religious leaders have faced arbitrary arrests; and homes and places of worship have been demolished. These incidents represent severe violations of religious freedom.” The report also noted that India has consistently denied visas to USCIRF members since the tenure of the previous Manmohan Singh-led government, citing concerns over “interference” in its internal affairs.

India has firmly rejected a report from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) that highlighted “increasing abuses” against religious minorities in the country. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) labeled the report as biased and accused the USCIRF of promoting a motivated narrative.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Our stance on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is well established. It is a biased organization with a political agenda.” He added, “We reject this malicious report, which only serves to further discredit the USCIRF.”

Who Wrote The Report?

As always, factory of lies, USCIRF came up with another dog & pony show-country update report on India. While it is laced with usual anti-India tropes such as CAA & Islamophobia, what is important is to take a good look at the person drafting it.

Meet Sema G Hasan & USCIRF’s Pakistani pool of “experts” on India

The report is curated by Sema Gabriela Hasan, a Pakistani American appointed as South Asia Policy Analyst first in 2023, then promoted to senior analyst in 2024. Before this, she served as an intern at South and Central Asia Bureau, Office of Pakistan Affairs, US State Department.

She has been closely linked to the US State Department, having previously served as a Congressional Staffer at the Joint Economic Committee as a Democratic Representative in 2019.

More importantly in 2021, she was granted the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS), a program of the US State Department, pursuing which she came to the American Institute of Indian Studies to learn Urdu. A year & a half later, she was appointed as South Asia Policy Analyst at USCIRF.

But where have we seen this before? Sema G Hasan was groomed following the same blueprint before being appointed at the USCIRF as an “expert” on India. USCIRF’s 2020 policy analyst Harrison Akins covered a similar journey before bullshitting on India.

Like Sema, he’s also a graduate of Johns Hopkins & came to India in 2016 under the same CLS program. Another commonality- both their trips aligned with visa denials to USCIRF officials

Cherry on top, while Akins isn’t Pakistani, he was groomed by former Pak diplomat Akbar Ahmed.

That’s not it. USCIRF’s affair with Pakistanis and terror-linked Islamists isn’t new. Two other names in this special report on India also have roots in Pakistan and incidentally, they happen to hold brazen anti-India views.

Asif Mahmood is a Pakistani national appointed as a Commissioner at USCIRF in May 2024. Perhaps the USCIRF is trying to make us believe that a Pakistani would be anything but biased when it comes to India. His views say otherwise.

Next is Mohamed Elsanousi, appointed as commissioner in June 2024. He’s a graduate of Shariah & Law from International Islamic University, Pakistan & has served as director of Community Outreach & Interfaith Relations of the MB offshoot Islamic Society of North America (ISNA).

USCIRF’s best picks for opining on India’s religious freedom are either of Pakistani descent, trained in Pakistan or by a Pakistani national, or have spent years in the country for some project. In 2021, it was another Pakistani national Niala Mohammed, who crapped on India. It is noteworthy that the 2020 Report was written by Harrisson Akins and the 2021 & 2022 reports on India were drafted by Pakistani national Niala Mohammed who is a critic of India.

USCIRF had sold its soul to Islamists to publish bullshit reports on India when they fed USCIRF with some dimes to lobby against India, as exposed multiple times.

Years of this charade and the USCIRF isn’t even trying to hide it anymore. At this point, they are carelessly operating on zero ounce of credibility.

This article is based on an X thread by OSINTWa.

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When PM Modi Fulfilled Last Wishes Of Freedom Fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, 56 Years After Independence

By
The Commune
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Shyamji Krishna Varma and PM Modi

As the nation observes the birth anniversary of great freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, here is a story on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an emotional and memorable tribute to the great patriot and revolutionary.

Shyamji Krishna Varma, a Gujarat-born freedom fighter played pivotal role in India’s struggle for Independence. Besides being a noted scholar in Sanskrit and other Indian languages, he founded the India House in London, which served as a leading centre of Indian nationalism outside the country, before Independence.

Shyamji Krishna Varma passed away in 1930, holding on to the hope that his ashes would return to a free and Independent India. However, his ‘last wish’ was realized only after five decades of India attaining freedom from colonial rule.

The dream was realized in August 2003, after Narendra Modi took over as Gujarat Chief Minister. The then Gujarat CM brought his ashes back from Geneva, honouring the freedom fighter’s final request.

On 22nd August 2003, PM Modi reached St. George’s cemetery in Geneva, Switzerland, to collect Shyamji Krishna Varma’s ashes from the Ville de Genève and the Swiss government, fulfilling this patriot’s long-held wish.

Few years later, in 2010, PM Modi also inaugurated the Kranti Peeth memorial in Mandvi, replicating the India House in London, housing statues of Shyam ji and his wife, alongside their ashes.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tributes to the revolutionary freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma on his birth anniversary today. In a social media post, PM Modi also highlighted Shyamji Krishna Varma’s unwavering spirit and dedication to the nation, emphasising that his legacy will continue to inspire generations.

He said that Shyamji Krishna Varma’s revolutionary actions infused remarkable strength into the resolve for the country’s independence.

“Hundreds of salutations to the great freedom fighter and brave son of Mother India, Shyamji Krishna Verma, on his birth anniversary. With his revolutionary steps, he infused amazing power in the resolve for the independence of the country. His dedication and spirit of service towards the nation will continue to inspire every generation,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

–IANS

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Andhra Pradesh Dy CM Pawan Kalyan Advocates For Sanatana Dharma With Varahi Declaration

By
The Commune
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Pawan Kalyan Advocates For Sanatana Dharma With Varahi Declaration

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has positioned himself as a strong proponent of Sanatana Dharma during a recent gathering in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Addressing a large audience after performing rituals at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, Kalyan vehemently criticized pseudo-secular critics, declaring himself an unapologetic Sanatani Hindu. He made a pointed remark against Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had compared Sanatana Dharma to a virus, asserting, “You cannot wipe out Sanatana Dharma. If anyone tries, they will be wiped out.”

On 3 October 2024, Kalyan unveiled the Varahi Declaration, which he described as more than a political initiative; it is a mission aimed at defending the cultural and religious heritage of Andhra Pradesh. He stated that the Varahi campaign began 14 months ago and represents a call to action for millions who wish to establish a “Sanatana Dharma Raksha Board” to protect their beliefs.

Key Proposals Of the Varahi Declaration

  • Uniform Application of Secularism: The declaration stresses that secularism should be applied uniformly to ensure equal protection for all religions.
  • National Legislation: A call for a national act that specifically defends Sanatana Dharma against actions or statements that harm its core beliefs, ensuring uniform enforcement throughout India.
  • Sanatana Dharma Protection Boards: Establishment of these boards at both national and state levels to implement the act and safeguard the faith’s interests.
  • Budget Allocations: Annual budgets should be allocated to support these boards and their activities, ensuring they have adequate resources.
  • Disengagement from Hate: The declaration advocates for disengagement from individuals or groups that promote hatred or defame Sanatana Dharma.
  • Sanatana Dharma Certification: Introduction of certification to ensure the purity and authenticity of materials used in temple rituals, such as offerings and prasadam.
  • Broader Role of Temples: Kalyan envisions temples evolving into centers of art, education, economy, and environmental conservation, contributing to the broader cultural and social welfare of society.

Kalyan’s speech reflects a call to action for the protection of Sanatana Dharma, urging Hindus to unite against perceived attacks while also advocating for respect for all faiths. This declaration comes in the wake of rising controversies surrounding Sanatana Dharma and aims to foster a collective voice among its adherents.

(With inputs from ABPLive)

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Two Arrested For Stealing And Selling Cows For Meat In Kodaikanal

By
The Commune
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Mohammad Azharuddin (36) and Marudupandi (35) arrested for selling Cows for Meat in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal police have arrested two individuals, Mohammad Azharuddin (36) and Marudupandi (35), for allegedly stealing cows from a residence and selling them for meat in the Kodaikanal area of Dindigul district. The arrests were made following a complaint from a local resident, Chelladurai, who reported the disappearance of his cow.

Residents in and around Kodaikanal had expressed concerns over the frequent theft of cows they had been bringing up as domestic animals, prompting multiple complaints to the police. In response, a special police team was formed to investigate the matter. Utilizing CCTV footage, authorities discovered Azharuddin and Marudupandi leading the stolen cow by its rope.

Further investigation revealed that both suspects, who own beef shops, had been involved in smuggling and slaughtering the stolen cows for meat in the surrounding areas. The police have launched an ongoing investigation into the case, focusing on uncovering the full extent of their operations.

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1000-Year Old Shiva Lingam Restored by Aran Pani Foundation In Cuddalore District

By
The Commune
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1000-Year Old Shiva Lingam Restored by Aran Pani Foundation In Cuddalore District

In a remarkable effort towards preserving ancient heritage, a group of youths from Thanjavur have successfully restored a thousand-year-old Shiva Lingam in the Choladharam area near Srimushnam, Cuddalore district. The restoration was part of a broader initiative led by the Aran Pani Trust, which is focused on reviving and protecting historic Shiva Lingams across Tamil Nadu.

The ancient Shiva Lingam, believed to date back over a millennium, was found buried deep in the soil amidst trees before the dedicated team from Thanjavur restored it. The work by Aran Pani Trust has been hailed as a significant contribution to preserving Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and religious history.

Efforts like this underscore the importance of community participation in conserving historical monuments as local volunteers and organizations come together to protect their heritage for future generations. The restoration of this Shiva Lingam has drawn appreciation from local devotees and heritage enthusiasts, highlighting the ongoing efforts to revive ancient temples and sacred sites in the region.

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“Sentiments Of Crores Of Devotees At Stake”: SC Orders SIT Probe Into Ghee Adulteration Allegations In Tirupati Laddu

By
The Commune
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SC orders SIT Probe into Tirupati laddu case

The Supreme Court, on 4 October 2024, ordered the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe allegations that substandard ghee containing animal fat was used in the preparation of laddus at the revered Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. The allegations, raised by the Andhra Pradesh government under N Chandrababu Naidu, claimed that the previous government led by the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party was responsible for the use of the tainted ghee.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan directed that the SIT would consist of two officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), two from the Andhra Pradesh State Police, and one senior officer from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The probe will be conducted under the supervision of the CBI director.

“In order to assuage the feelings of crores of people, we find that an investigation by an independent SIT consisting of representatives from the State police, CBI, and FSSAI shall be done,” the Court said.

The SIT previously appointed by the state government will be replaced by this new team, with appointments made by the respective heads of CBI and FSSAI. The Court emphasized that its order should not be viewed as a reflection on the current state-appointed SIT, stating, “We clarify that our order should not be construed as a reflection on the independence and fairness of the members of the state SIT. We have constituted the committee only to assuage the feelings of crores of people having faith in the deity.”

The hearing was in response to four petitions seeking an independent investigation into the serious allegations. Among the petitioners were former MP Dr. Subramanian Swamy, YSR Congress Party leader and former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) chairperson YV Subba Reddy, historian Vikram Sampath, Vedic speaker Dushyanth Sridhar, and news anchor Suresh Chavhanke.

During previous hearings, the Court expressed concern over Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s public statements, which accused the YSR Congress Party of using animal fat in the laddus, despite the lack of conclusive evidence. The Court questioned the CM’s decision to go public without definitive proof, with Justice Gavai stating that the claims “should not have been made prematurely.”

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central government, supported the formation of an independent SIT. “If there is any truth in the allegations, it is unacceptable. The sentiments of devotees are spread across the country. Let it be supervised by a senior officer from a Central government force. That will inspire confidence,” he suggested.

Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Andhra Pradesh government, defended the state’s investigation, stating, “We wish to go ahead with the SIT. Any officer of the court’s choice can be added. There can be no allegation against the SIT. We cannot go by some newspaper report.”

However, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing YV Subba Reddy, argued that Chief Minister Naidu’s statements had already compromised the integrity of the investigation. “An impartial independent investigation needs to be ordered,” Sibal said.

The Court underscored the gravity of the allegations, noting the widespread faith in the temple. “Politics is taking over the faith of crores of people,” remarked Solicitor General Mehta, as the Court moved to form the new SIT.

The SIT will now begin its investigation, and the Court will oversee its progress to ensure impartiality and fairness. The case continues to stir political tensions between the ruling and opposition parties in Andhra Pradesh, with both sides trading accusations over the issue.

This move by the Supreme Court marks a significant step toward addressing the concerns of millions of devotees and ensuring that the sanctity of one of India’s most revered temples is upheld.

(With inputs from Bar and Bench)

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Khatakhat Economics: Under Fiscal Crisis, Congress Govt In Himachal Imposes “Toilet Seat Tax” On Urban Residents

By
The Commune
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Himachal tax for Toilet seats

Himachal Pradesh residents will now be taxed based on the number of toilets in their homes, as per a recent notice issued by the Congress government, which is grappling with a financial crisis.

The Himachal government’s announcement, tied to the sewerage and water bills, states that urban residents must pay ₹25 tax for each toilet seat installed in their homes. This additional charge will be added to the Jal Shakti department’s account along with the sewage bill.

According to the government, 30% of the water bill will be allocated to sewage charges. Households using private water supplies but relying on the government’s sewage system will also need to pay ₹25 per toilet each month. The department has instructed all divisional officers to enforce this rule.

Previously, water bills were not issued in Himachal Pradesh. The BJP had promised free water if it came to power. However, under the Congress government, a monthly water charge of ₹100 per connection has been introduced starting from October.

Urban residents are expected to be most impacted by this new tax, as homes with multiple bathrooms will face higher costs for each toilet seat.

With five municipal corporations, 29 municipalities, and 17 nagar panchayats, Himachal Pradesh is home to nearly 10 lakh people, meaning a substantial portion of the population will be affected by this new tax policy.’

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed shock at the development saying that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi took efforts to build toilets as part of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the Congress is taxing people for toilets.

(With inputs from English Jagran)

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