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DMK Scion Udhayanidhi Who Called For Eradicating Sanatana Dharma To Be Made Deputy CM Before This Date “To Reduce Burden” On His Father MK Stalin

By
The Commune
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According to report by Indian Express based on top sources in the DMK government, Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s youth welfare and sports development minister and son of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, is set to be coronated as the Deputy Chief Minister before 22 August 2024.

The report says that Udhayanidhi has been advocating for this promotion to gain broader acceptance within the government and alleviate some of his father’s workload.

According to the Indian Express report, a top DMK source confirmed the elevation which is likely to happen before CM Stalin’s trip to the United States on August 22. The primary aim is to reduce the Chief Minister’s burden and ensure smoother governance.

Apparently, this move will help groom Udhayanidhi with significant responsibilities. DMK leaders think that the deputy CM role will also enable Udhayanidhi to play a more prominent part in the 2026 election campaigns.

Despite mixed opinions about Udhayanidhi’s political commitment, a senior minister dismissed doubts, noting that Udhayanidhi requested the position himself.

“If he was a reluctant politician, he wouldn’t demand a heavier post. These rumors arise because of his youth and celebrity status,” the minister was quoted saying in the report.

This promotion coincides with a pending cabinet reshuffle based on ministerial performance.

In January 2024, CM Stalin addressed rumors about his son’s promotion, calling them unfounded and the “handiwork of rivals.” Stalin also quoted Udhayanidhi as saying that all ministers in the cabinet, including him, were “working as deputies to the CM.”

Two senior DMK leaders indicated that party veterans would not oppose the decision as long as powerful ministers’ portfolios were not reassigned to Udhayanidhi.

Rise Of The Dynast

Udhayanidhi, the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, joined his father’s cabinet on 14 December 2022, the auspicious day when the Parthasarathy Perumal Temple at Tiruvallikeni will underwent Thirumanjana Sevai (sacred bath ceremony). He shot to national fame after his controversial remarks about eradicating Sanatana Dharma. He had said “Mosquitoes, dengue, flu, malaria, corona – we should not oppose these things. They’ve to be eradicated completely. Same is the case with Santanam (Hinduism). Our first work should be to eradicate Sanatanam instead of opposing it. So, my appreciations to you all for giving an apt title to the meeting.”

The Supreme Court in March 2024 criticized the DMK dynast for his controversial comments on ‘Sanatana Dharma,’ stating that he “abused his rights.”

“You have abused your rights… You know what you have said. You should have realized the consequences. You are a Minister, not a layman,” remarked the Supreme Court during the hearing.

In June 2024, Udhayanidhi Stalin, appeared before the Special Magistrate’s Court in  Bengaluru to face trial for making derogatory remarks about Sanatana Dharma. He was granted bail on a ₹1 lakh cash surety.

Representing Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni in the assembly, his elevation to Deputy CM has been much anticipated but delayed. Unlike his father, who waited longer for his political ascent, Udhayanidhi is moving forward with the support of his family.

At 46, Udhayanidhi is also recognized for his influential film company, Red Giants, which significantly impacts the production and distribution of Tamil and South Indian films. The company had produced only 41 films from 2008 to 2021. However, within a span of just two years, from 2021 to 2023, they have released 35 films.

Durga Stalin initially did not want her son to face a similar delay as his father. Udhayanidhi’s decision to actively pursue a political career, with family consensus, aims to address any challenges of dynastic succession sooner rather than later.

“Won’t Enter Politics” – Udhayanidhi And His Father Stalin Had Said 

In an interview with actress Sangeetha for Puthuyugam on March 6, 2014, Udhayanidhi stated that he is not interested in politics and that it is not mandatory to enter politics if born into a political family. He also stated, “There are many people in the DMK who have worked hard for the party, and I believe they should be given prominent positions.”

On August 6, 2017, during the press meet for his mega-flop movie Pothuvaga En Manasu Thangam, Udhayanidhi stated that no one in his family or friends had asked him to enter politics and that he is not interested in doing so.

On May 26, 2011, Udhayanithi stated that he will never enter politics in response to a fan who wished him good luck for his first film Oru Kal Oru Kannadi and asked him to enter politics.

In another such instance on Jul 23, 2011, he replied to a user named @robotag that he will not enter politics.

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TN Slides In SDG Indices, TN BJP Chief Annamalai Slams DMK Govt Over State’s Poor Performance In Crucial Indicators

By
The Commune
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Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party President Annamalai has strongly criticized the DMK government for a notable decline in several key indicators of NITI Aayog’s Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that indicators such as the Gender Equality Index, Clean Water and Sanitation Index, Sustainable Cities and Communities Index, Responsible Consumption and Production Index, Life on Land Index, and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions have shown significant regressions compared to neighboring states.

Annamalai via his official X account stated that, “In the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) indices published by NITI Aayog, it has been revealed that Tamil Nadu is lagging behind other states in many sectors. Specifically, it ranks 10th on the Gender Equality Index, 9th on the Clean Water and Sanitation Index, 10th on the Sustainable Cities and Communities Index, 10th on the Responsible Consumption and Production Index, 15th on the Life on Land Index, and 9th on the Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions Index, such that in many indices, Tamil Nadu lags behind other states.”

“Particularly, in the last three years the violence against women, children, scheduled and tribal communities has been reported to have increased significantly in Tamil Nadu. According to the report, the disappearance of children also increased by about 11%, and deaths due to road accidents and suicides in Tamil Nadu have increased significantly in the last three years. Apart from this, employment in the manufacturing sector has declined and innovation capacity has more than halved from 37.91% to 15.69% which is shocking,” he added.

“Apart from these, the low overall enrollment rate in higher education and poor language skills and math skills among eighth graders are of great concern. The increase in violence against scheduled and tribal communities shows the trend against social justice in Tamil Nadu. Moreover, it is very easy to realize that the basic reason behind the increase in violence against women and children and the increase in road accidents is the uncontrolled sale of alcohol, the sale of counterfeit liquor, and the sale of narcotics including ganja,” he further added.

“The NITI Aayog report has reflected many of the things that the Tamil Nadu BJP has so far consistently pointed out in the DMK government’s administrative blunders and shortcomings. I urge the DMK government to take constructive steps keeping the welfare of the state in mind and not engage in diversionary efforts as usual,” he concluded.

However, Dravidianists on social media were seen sharing comparison charts of TN with the national average, which includes all 28 states, and were praising Tamil Nadu. They are overlooking the fact that when compared to neighboring states, Tamil Nadu’s performance was actually declining. For example, the DMK family-owned Sun News compared TN with the national average but failed to make the comparison with the state’s immediate neighbors which would have shown a grim picture.

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ED Granted 3-Day Custody Of Ex-DMK NRI Wing Office Bearer & Intl Druglord Jaffer Sadiq In Money Laundering Case

By
The Commune
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The Principal Sessions and Special Court overseeing cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) granted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) three days’ custody of Jaffer Sadiq, international drug kingpin and former DMK functionary, on 16 July 2024.

Judge S Alli issued this ruling in response to the ED’s application, which originally sought 15 days’ custody. The judge allowed custody from 17 to 19 July 2024, with conditions including permission for relatives to visit Sadiq on 18 July 2024 and mandating his appearance in court on 19 July 2024.

During the hearing, ED’s special public prosecutor N Ramesh argued that custodial interrogation was necessary because Sadiq had been uncooperative and evasive during questioning at Tihar jail, where he was held following his arrest by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on drug smuggling charges. Ramesh emphasized that obtaining custody was crucial to uncovering the source of the proceeds from his alleged criminal activities.

In his defence, Sadiq’s senior counsel, Abudu Kumar Rajarathinam, countered that seeking custody based on Sadiq’s alleged evasiveness and non-cooperation was unfounded. He pointed out that the ED had already been granted permission to interrogate Sadiq twice while he was in Tihar jail and had completed its questioning. Rajarathinam argued that seeking custody again on these grounds was not permissible under the law.

Earlier, on 15 July 2024, the Principal Sessions and Special Court had remanded Sadiq to judicial custody for 15 days in connection with a money laundering case filed by the ED. This followed his transfer from Tihar Jail to Chennai, where the ED sought his remand after formally arresting him using a prisoner transfer warrant issued by the NCB.

Who Is Jaffer Sadiq?

Sadiq, a producer of five Tamil films, was the leader of a cartel responsible for shipping Pseudoephedrine from India to Australia and New Zealand, as per the sources. Four other individuals from Tamil Nadu were apprehended in a Delhi warehouse.

Sadiq, who was affiliated with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and serving as the Deputy Organiser for the Chennai West NRI Wing, was permanently expelled from the party on 25 February 2024 following the revelation of his involvement with the drug cartel. The case unraveled when authorities from New Zealand and Australia alerted Indian agencies about substantial drug smuggling in their countries, disguised as food products. The NCB was probing the possibility of drug money being used to fund films.

In February, New Zealand customs and Australian police provided information about large amounts of pseudoephedrine, hidden in desiccated coconut powder, being shipped to both countries. Additional information from the US Drug Enforcement Administration pointed to Delhi as the source of the consignment.

An international drug trafficking network has been broken up by a combined operation from the NCB and the Special Cell of Delhi Police, resulting in the seizure of at least 50 kg of Pseudoephedrine in Delhi.

Following extensive questioning, officials disclosed that over the past three years, 45 shipments containing roughly 3,500 kg of pseudoephedrine, worth over ₹2,000 crore in the international market, had been dispatched.

On 9 March 2024, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) announced the arrest of Jaffer Sadiq, the mastermind behind the India-Australia-New Zealand drug trafficking network. According to the NCB, Sadiq is reportedly the mastermind behind the drug trafficking ring spanning India, Australia, and New Zealand. Sadiq, who has five film productions to his credit, allegedly operated a cartel that transported pseudoephedrine from India to Australia and New Zealand. Four individuals from Tamil Nadu were apprehended in a Delhi warehouse two weeks prior.

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Smoke Emerges In DMK-Congress Alliance, TNCC President Selvaperunthagai Once Again Calls To Strengthen Party To Regain Self-Respect In TN

By
The Commune
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"Should We Just Come And Go Like Orphans?", TNCC President Selvaperunthagai Criticizes DMK For Inadequate Security At Tyagi Immanuel Sekaran Memorial Event

Selvaperunthagai, the president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, has once again stirred controversy within his alliance by asserting that Congress hasn’t received the respect it deserves. He emphasized the need for recognition and urged party cadres to strengthen the organization independently for the 2029 elections. This comes after the DMK-Congress alliance swept all 39 constituencies in the Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections, where Congress contested and won all 9 seats it contested.

Critics from opposition parties, including the BJP, and political analysts allege that Congress’s victories are solely due to DMK’s support, arguing that Congress lacks its own voter base in Tamil Nadu. Responding to these criticisms, Selvaperunthagai stated that Congress will indeed contest the 2029 parliamentary elections alone in Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at an executive meeting organised by the Tiruvallur district Congress, attended by party leaders such as Thiruvallur MP Sasikant Senthil and others, Selvaperunthagai reiterated the importance of strengthening the party.

Selvaperunthagai said, “All the leaders here are talking about our structure. The message that comes to my ears is that when we become part of any alliance, be it the 2021 assembly elections or the 2024 parliamentary elections, we are not given due respect and recognition. Somehow, we are being neglected and we want this respect. All the regional heads, city heads, and district heads are asking, when will we get our recognition, they say it is not right in two or three elections. We will get self-respect and dignity only if we strengthen our party machinery.”

He mentioned that they had already visited all 38 revenue districts once, and now they were revisiting them. According to feedback from cadres, Selvaperunthagai indicated at concerns about the alliance members not showing sufficient respect. He advised that to regain respect, they should focus on strengthening the Congress structure in Tamil Nadu. Later, he emphasized that the Congress aimed to win the 2029 elections independently, sending 19 members from Tamil Nadu to the Parliament.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Selvaperunthagai highlighted the significance of Tiruvallur in his political journey and expressed confidence in Congress’s prospects in the upcoming elections. His statements have sparked discussions not only among DMK members but also within the Congress party itself.

This wasn’t the first instance he spoke in this manner. Previously, during the state general committee meeting on 11 June 2024,  Selvaperunthagai posed a significant question to the party cadres, “How much longer do we continue depending on others?” His speech delved into the party’s historical journey in Tamil Nadu, prompting introspection among the cadres.

Selvaperunthagai emphasized, “‘Are we going to depend on others’ or ‘Are we going to be on our own?’ How long can you depend on others? The Congress organisation has a history. Congress organisation has crossed 139 years, and we have an ideology that embraces, supports, and gives voice to all people, which no other party has. Why BJP could not make a Christian or a Muslim minister, our parliamentarians have won 99 out of which two have volunteered and joined the Congress saying we are on the side of I.N.D.I, today the tally is 101, and the tally is going to go up.“

Previously in May 2024, speaking at a Congress executive meeting in Arani, Tiruvannamalai district, Selvaperunthagai expressed, “How long will we wait for another party to give us seats? In Tamil Nadu, the Congress party should grow from the position of asking for seats to the position of giving seats.” Selvaperunthagai, openly expressed his grievances, highlighting the 2026 state assembly elections. He emphasized the party’s past role as a decisive force in the 1950s and urged party members to aim for that level of authority once again. His candid remarks have reportedly caused a commotion within the I.N.D.I Alliance in Tamil Nadu.

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UP Govt Mandates Name Display For Eateries Along Kanwar Yatra Route, Islamists Like Zubair & Owaisi Call It “Dangerous”, Compare It To “Apartheid”, Netizens Call Out Hypocrisy

By
The Commune
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The Uttar Pradesh state government and local administrations have ramped up security measures to ensure the smooth completion of the Kanwar Yatra, scheduled to take place from 22 July 2024 to 2 August 2024. In Muzaffarnagar, the local administration has mandated that proprietors and operators of food establishments such as hotels, dhabas, and carts along the Yatra route display their names. This measure aims to prevent confusion and potential confrontations among Kanwariyas, according to SSP Abhishek Singh.

SSP Singh explained to the media that this initiative helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures a peaceful yatra. “Kanwariyas can buy goods from anywhere,“ he emphasized, noting that many eateries have voluntarily complied with the order by putting up signs with their names.

SSP Singh reiterated that the measure is intended solely to maintain order and safety. Police personnel from various stations, including Nai Mandi, Chhapar, Purkaji, Mansoorpur, and Khatauli, are actively enforcing the order, with many eateries near Meenakshi Chowk already displaying the required signs.

This administrative decision follows allegations that some Muslim eatery owners have been using fake Hindu names on their posters, potentially deceiving vegetarian customers and causing conflicts. Swami Yashveer Maharaj has been vocal about this issue, claiming that many Muslim-owned eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route disguise their identity, which could hurt the sentiments of Shiva devotees. He has called for transparency and warned of protests if the administration fails to act.

“The identity of people from a particular community operating shops by putting up boards with the names of Hindu deities should be made public,” Swami Yashveer Maharaj demanded, emphasizing the need for a campaign to address this issue.

Hindus Welcome Move

Hindu netizens welcomed the move by the UP government and indicated that this was necessary since several Islamists tend to sell food that should not be consumed during the Yatra out of spite. Additionally, there was a danger of stone pelting and violence during the Yatra.

 

Some netizens called out the bigotry of Muslims for eating in Halal-certified shops but who cry hoarse when it comes to Hindus.

https://twitter.com/Chai_Allure/status/1813855417837228371

Islamists Raise Uproar Upon Hearing About Order

Upon hearing the announcement, Islamists like AIMIM Chief Owaisi, alleged fact-checker Mohammed Zubair, and several other Islamists accused the administration of religious discrimination.

Asaduddin Owaisi who said “Jai Palestine” while taking oath in the Parliament after the Lok Sabha polls, compared the move to the “Apartheid” of South Africa and the “Judenboycott” of Hitler’s Germany.

“As per the order of Uttar Pradesh Police, now every food shop or cart owner will have to put his name on the board so that no Kanwadia buys anything from a Muslim shop by mistake. This was called Apartheid in South Africa and in Hitler’s Germany it was called ‘Judenboycott’.“

Alleged fact-checker Zubair called it “dangerous” and whined about it being discriminatory based on religion. He wrote, “Isn’t this discrimination based on religion? Asking the small time vendors to display their names on their shops? What if these shop owners are selectively targeted by extremists by seeing the names on the display board?”

The same Islamists would prefer to buy from Muslim-run shops and also not allow Hindus to pass through “Muslim areas”.

It is noteworthy that Kanwar Yatras often turn violent with Islamists pelting stones and attacking the Hindus taking the Yatra. It is fresh in our memory what happened in the Shobha Yatra in Nuh, Haryana in 2023.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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Supreme Court Orders Interim Release of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, Questions DMK Govt’s Preventive Detention Rationale

By
The Commune
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The Supreme Court on Thursday (18 July 2024) ordered the interim release of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, who has been detained under the Goondas Act by the Tamil Nadu Police since May 2024. The bench, comprising Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, scrutinized the legitimacy of Shankar’s detention, raising concerns about the approach taken by the Madras High Court in handling the case [A Kamala v State of Tamil Nadu and Ors].

According to the report by Bar & Bench, the bench expressed its doubts regarding the necessity of Shankar’s detention. Justice Dhulia and Justice Amanullah remarked that the Madras High Court seemed to have taken “the matter of his liberty casually.” This observation was pivotal in the decision to release Shankar on an interim basis while the High Court continues to deliberate on the petition challenging his preventive detention.

The Supreme Court’s order emphasized the urgency of the case, noting that preventive detention matters require prompt attention. “We also request for an expedited hearing considering that it is a preventive detention matter,” the bench stated. This directive underscores the Court’s recognition of the significant implications of preventive detention on individual liberty.

The Court noted that all involved parties, including the State, had agreed to bring the matter before the High Court on the upcoming Monday. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the High Court addresses the petition without further delay, providing clarity on the legality of Shankar’s detention.

In a previous hearing, the Supreme Court had questioned Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing the Tamil Nadu government, about the grounds for detaining Shankar. The Court highlighted the limited number of cases cited against Shankar, including one involving a reporter based in Delhi, far from Tamil Nadu. The bench inquired, “You tell me you have mentioned only two cases. Some reporter who has filed a case against him is not even in that state but in Delhi. He mentions a particular case which is also not very good to our mind. How can he be put in detention? Is he a threat to national security of this country?”

This line of questioning reflects the Court’s skepticism regarding the justification for Shankar’s detention, suggesting that the evidence presented might not warrant such severe measures.

The Supreme Court’s decision to release Shankar on an interim basis is a significant development in this case, highlighting the judicial system’s role in safeguarding individual rights against potential misuse of preventive detention laws. The forthcoming hearing in the Madras High Court will be closely watched as it addresses the broader implications of this case on personal liberty and state power.

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Republican Leader Harmeet Dhillon Who Sang Ardaas For Donald Trump Is A Khalistani Sympathizer

By
The Commune
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Following the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, Republican Party leader Harmeet Dhillon recited an “ardaas” for Trump at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in his presence.

After reciting the ardaas, she said, “We recite the Ardas prayer before any new endeavour, giving thanks to God and asking for his protection and help to uphold the values of humility, truth, courage, service, and justice for all.”

“Dear Waheguru, our one true God, we thank you for creating America as a unique heaven on this Earth, where all people are free to worship according to their faith. We seek your blessings and guidance for our beloved country. Please bless our people with wisdom as they vote for the upcoming election and please bless with humility, honesty, skill, and integrity all those who conduct the election,” she further added.

Dhillon, a Khalistani sympathiser, received flak from Christian supremacists in the US for reciting this prayer.

Dhillon, on 17 July 2024, shared the meaning of the ardaas prayer on her X handle. She wrote, “This is a translation of the ardaas prayer I offered last night at the RNC Convention. Sikhism is a monotheistic faith—we believe in one God, the same God other monotheistic faiths worship. I am deeply touched & grateful for the thousands of positive messages I have received.”

Khalistani Sympathiser

It is noteworthy that Dhillon had welcomed the condemnation of the “extrajudicial” murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Here are some of the remarks she made on her X handle over the months.

She also claimed that Indian “death squads” were targeting diaspora Sikhs and quoted some secret memo.

She repeatedly used the phrase death squad to point out India’s alleged hand in the killings of terrorists outside of the country.

 

She further claimed the Modi government was “assassinating India’s critics in the diaspora. Full service!”

She also peddled the leftist narrative of lack of freedom of speech in India, quoting a US report.

Minorities In The USA vs Majority Hindus In India

All said and done, it is noteworthy that in the United States, politicians from minority faiths, such as Harmeet Dhillon or Vivek Ramaswamy, often make efforts to assure the majority that they share common beliefs, sometimes even converting to the majority religion like Nikki Haley and Bobby Jindal.

Conversely, in India, the majority Hindu population is often seen seeking validation from so-called minority groups, who steadfastly assert the superiority of their faith and denounce idol worship. Additionally, it is the Hindus who have been patiently fighting their temple-related battles in court while these alleged minority groups refuse to work out an amicable solution and return these sacred temples to the majority.

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Madurai Bench Supports Ervadi’s Traditional Muharram Practices, Rejects ‘Talibanic’ Restrictions

By
The Commune
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The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court permitted the observance of Muharram ceremonies in Ervadi, Ramanathapuram district, in accordance with traditional practices, including music, processions, and other rituals. Emphasizing the supremacy of fundamental rights over extremist elements, the court underscored that individuals have the right to conduct these ceremonies as per their customs.

The court’s decision came in response to a petition by Thameem Sindha Madar, seeking protection against interference in their customary Muharram observance. The petition faced opposition from adherents of Thowheed Jamath, who objected to the manner of celebration. Thameem Sindha Madar had sought intervention from the Madras High Court after the Tamil Nadu authorities denied permission for their customary Muharram observance involving drums and music, due to objections raised by the radical faction.

In Ervadi town, Tirunelveli, Sufi Muslim devotees have long carried out Muharram processions featuring drum beats and music, such as the Santhanakoodu procession and Kuthirai Pancha. This year, they encountered opposition from a radical faction within the Muslim community, which opposed the inclusion of drums and music in the Muharram observance. Thowheed Jamath, the opposing group, argued that musical elements in the Muharram procession could lead to moral corruption among devotees and insisted on practicing Islam in a purist form devoid of such rituals.

Despite the Muslim group’s appeals to district and state authorities, they were advised against including music in the Muharram procession to prevent potential law and order issues, effectively yielding to the restrictions imposed by Thowheed Jamath on the traditional practices of other Muslims in the region.

Justice G.R. Swaminathan affirmed that the petitioners had an inherent right, guaranteed by Articles 25, 19(1)(b), and 19(1)(d) of the Constitution, to observe Muharram in their traditional manner. The court noted the diversity within religious beliefs and practices, rejecting the imposition of singular interpretations.

Highlighting the historical significance of the Hasan and Husain Dargha in Ervadi and the enduring tradition of Muharram observance, the court recognized drum beats as integral to local religious and social events. It affirmed the petitioners’ entitlement to conduct their religious processions without interference.

The court further stated that Thowheed Jamath did not possess the authority to dictate the conduct of ceremonies by the petitioner’s group or obstruct their religious processions. It emphasized the administration’s duty to protect fundamental rights and to prevent any interference with their exercise.

The court asserted, “This right has been exercised by the petitioner’s forefathers over centuries. It is not open to Thowheed Jamath to dictate to the petitioner’s group as to how they should conduct the festival.” The court emphasized that “religious beliefs and practices cannot be reduced to singular categories; perceptions are inevitably diverse.”

The court asserted that Thowheed Jamath lacked the authority to obstruct the petitioner’s group from conducting a religious procession. It argued that religion takes on various hues depending on individual experiences, noting that the people of Ervadi embrace music, drum beats, and traditional processions involving horses and chariots. Therefore, expecting them to adhere strictly to practices akin to those in Saudi Arabia would be akin to adopting a “Talibanic outlook.”

Critically, the court rebuked the District Administration for capitulating to threats from extremist factions. It condemned the administration for choosing the “easy and lazy” route of banning the exercise of rights under the pretext of maintaining law and order, which it deemed as an act of helplessness.

Emphasizing that the right to religious procession is safeguarded under Article 19 and can be defended against Thowheed Jamath, the court mandated that the District Administration must take all necessary actions to protect this right.

Consequently, the court granted the writ petition, specifying, “The Thowheed group has the right to adhere to their own beliefs… If members of Thowheed Jamath object to the Santhanakoodu procession or Kuthirai Pancha, they may choose not to participate and remain indoors.”

(With inputs from LawBeat)

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TN BJP Criticizes DMK Government Over Electricity Tariff Hike, Invokes Karunanidhi’s Words From 2014, “Who Is Responsible For Inflation In TN?”

By
The Commune
-

The Tamil Nadu BJP has criticized the current DMK government in Tamil Nadu by invoking the words of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi, MK Stalin’s father, who once criticized former CM J Jayalalitha for the rise in general commodity prices in the state. Since the DMK assumed power in Tamil Nadu, within three years, the government has repeatedly raised property taxes, electricity tariffs, drinking water fees, milk prices, and bond registration fees, significantly burdening the public with these increased charges.

In a statement from its official X account, the Tamil Nadu BJP queried, “At the drop of the hat, the chief minister @mkstalin proudly says that he is the son of the Kalaignar! Do you have the guts to answer this fair question of your father?” Referring to a statement made by MK Stalin’s father as opposition leader on 14 March 2014, the BJP quoted, “If the central government is responsible for price hikes, then who is responsible for the increase in milk prices, bus fares, and electricity bills in Tamil Nadu?”

This has sparked a significant debate among netizens, particularly following recent criticisms from the opposition regarding the increase in electricity bills in Tamil Nadu. Netizens criticized the government, drawing comparisons with the ‘Gujarat Model‘ under BJP rule, which is the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi where the power tariffs are comparatively less.

Effective 1 July 2024, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) has approved a 2.18% hike in electricity tariffs for consumers based on the multi-year tariff order. This adjustment, aligned with the consumer price index, is scaled to 2.18% from a potential 4.7% increase to consider consumer welfare. Notably, this increase for households is entirely covered by the government’s electricity subsidy.

Last year, the TNERC also limited the tariff hike to 2.18%, although it could have been raised by up to 5%. TANGEDCO’s financial losses have escalated significantly, from ₹18,954 crore in FY12 to ₹94,312 crore over the past decade. Consequently, TANGEDCO has been compelled to secure loans from financial institutions and banks due to previous non-commitments, contrasting with the current government’s full absorption commitment from 2021-22. The loan amount has tripled over the last decade, soaring from ₹43,493 crore in FY12 to ₹1,59,823 crore in FY22. This has led to a 259% increase in net interest on loans, rising from ₹4,588 crore in FY12 to ₹16,511 crore in FY21.

The press release also highlighted that the government has been implementing minor annual tariff hikes to minimize consumer impact. According to the Union Ministry of Power guidelines, annual electricity tariff revisions are mandatory to avail central government funds under the Strengthening of Distribution System (RDSS) scheme.

The tariff hike has drawn criticism from opposition party leaders. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami and BJP State President Annamalai have condemned the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government for the increase in power tariffs.

Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president Annamalai condemned the price hike and also urged the DMK government to withdraw the tariff hike, shift to monthly billing, and move to solar energy to reduce the burden on the public. He wrote on his official X handle, “Within three years of coming to power, the DMK government has increased property tax, electricity charges, drinking water charges, milk prices, and bond registration fees many times and burdened the public with the increase in charges. Shocked. The DMK government purchased electricity worth ₹65,000 crore in the last fiscal year 2023-2024 alone. In three years of coming to power, without taking any measures to increase power generation, the cost of this electricity has been borne by the public. While many states have taken steps to increase solar power generation across the country, the DMK has spent around ₹5,400 crore per month to purchase electricity. If we continue to increase the amount of electricity purchased without increasing the production of electricity, it will lead to repeated increases in electricity tariffs. DMK’s Dravidian model of government is a stupid model without even this basic administrative knowledge. When he was in the opposition, Chief Minister Mr. @mkstalin, who released a video talking about shocking electricity charges, is now giving shocks to the public. He came to power with an election promise that if he did come to power, monthly electricity bills would be calculated, and after three years have passed, he has not implemented it. Without the practice of paying monthly electricity bills, people are already paying 50% more electricity bills. They said that they would install smart meters in the houses and calculate the monthly electricity bill, but now they have shelved the plan to install smart meters. In this situation, for DMK’s administrative failure, how is it fair to impose a fare hike on the public? I urge on behalf of @BJP4Tamilnadu that the DMK, which is victimizing the public for their administrative incompetence, should immediately withdraw this electricity tariff hike and take measures to increase electricity generation including solar power generation and implement the monthly electricity tariff procedure immediately across Tamil Nadu.”

LoP Edappadi Palanisami took to his official X handle and wrote, “My strong condemnation to the DMK government which has increased the electricity tariff again in Tamil Nadu! By waiting for the parliamentary elections and the Vikravandi by-elections to end, the DMK Chief Minister has gifted the people of Tamil Nadu with a shock. DMK Chief Minister. What pleasure does this Vidya government have in beating people’s stomachs? “I will do what I say – I will do what I don’t say,” said Mr.@mkstalin. They have not fulfilled any of their promises including the electricity bill once a month; You are only increasing the electricity tariffs without telling! It is unfair to put the burden of your administrative incompetence on the people! It has become a habit of the DMK government to torture the people. Without the basic capacity to provide uninterrupted power, I strongly condemn the DMK government for repeatedly increasing the electricity tariff. I urge the DMK Chief Minister to immediately roll back the increase in electricity tariff which is a huge burden on the people.”

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US Embassy In India Announces Programme Featuring Divisive YouTuber ‘The DeshBhakt’ Akash Banerjee, Had Earlier Engaged With RJ Sayema; New Modus Operandi To Subvert Indian Politics?

By
The Commune
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A post from the official handles of the US Embassy in India caused quite a stir in social media circles. The reason: they made an announcement about a programme titled “Influence to Impact“. The post read, “Are you a social media influencer or a content creator curious about impactful content that drives real change? Here’s your chance to learn from the best! Join us at American Center New Delhi for “Influence to Impact” with @TheDeshBhakt Akash Banerjee.”

The post also had a registration link which was not working when we tried to register. The event is expected to be held on 25 July 2024 between 6 and 8 PM at the American Center New Delhi.

Who Is “Deshbhakt” Akash Banerjee?

YouTuber Akash Banerjee runs a channel on the platform titled The Deshbhakt. His only claim to fame is peddling false narratives and disseminating fake news to his followers.

On EC

In March 2024, he peddled half-truths about the Election Commission. We debunked his false narratives here.

He made allegations of bias among the recent Election Commissioners when historical figures such as TN Seshan and MS Gill, both former CECs, had political affiliations, joining Congress post-tenure. Navin Chawla, another CEC, was also associated with Congress, a fact supported by instances of alleged partiality.

He also made allegations of unfair appointments of ECs and CECs wherein, historically, 20 out of 25 CECs were appointed by Congress Prime Ministers. The established process and criteria for appointing ECs and CECs are transparent and governed by constitutional provisions. The assertion overlooks that the President’s appointment of commissioners has always been based on government recommendations, with senior commissioners traditionally becoming CECs.

He made allegations of interference in EC appointments by the government but forgot the fact that the present law involves the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Cabinet Minister, ensuring broader political representation. Previously, appointments did not involve opposition input, which has now been included. He also alleged that the electoral bonds were a scam.

On Gyanvapi Temple

He also made elaborate videos to spread lies and further the leftist narrative surrounding the Gyanvapi temple in Kashi.

He first claimed that the history of Gyanvapi was complicated with differing views on what existed before the mosque when in reality, historical records and archaeological evidence strongly support that a Hindu temple, specifically the Kashi Vishwanath temple, existed at the site before the mosque was built during Aurangzeb’s rule.

He portrayed Hindu beliefs and historical facts about the Kashi Vishwanath temple as mere assumptions or popular beliefs when there was substantial historical documentation and scholarly consensus affirming the temple’s existence before its destruction by Aurangzeb.

Banerjee claimed that the structure near the mosque could have been a Deen-e-Ilahi center, representing Akbar’s synthetic religion when there is no credible historical evidence to support this claim, which diverts from the established fact of the site’s significance to Hindu worship.

He also went on to blame Hindu organizations for escalating tensions and altering worship practices at the site.

He even went on to assert that historical narratives, such as temples being built on Buddhist structures, are equivalent to the mosque-temple disputes.

Silent On Modi Govt Positives

Banerjee was among those who used the “Vishwaguru” jibe against PM Modi and India who went on mute when India used its power to ensure Navy veterans returned home safely from Qatar.

Banerjee posted a video in October 2023 where he said, “8 Indian Navy Veterans just got the death sentence in #Qatar. Govt KNEW about this case for the last one year & yet couldn’t get relief. How did our relations with a once friendly nation go SO BAD & our diplomatic might so ineffective beyond soundbytes?” He deleted this post and made the said video private!

He then came up with a follow-up video where if one reads between the lines, it is not necessarily that he praised the Modi government for the diplomatic victory. He blamed the Nupur Sharma episode and India’s relations with Israel for the strained relationship with Qatar! 

It is noteworthy that the US Embassy in India had nominated divisive figures like RJ Sayema in the past as their “Equality Ambassador“

 

 

RJ Sayema is a very well-known RJ for Radio Mirchi who indulges heavily in mocking Hindu festivals/rituals, and practices and speaking anti-national words. Sayema, a Muslim herself, who has never been seen wearing a Hijab, did not consider the Hijab regressive and did not open her mouth to support the triple talaq abolition by the Modi government. Instead, we went on and on about women’s empowerment giving sermons on her social media handles. In fact, she calls wearing hijab, a choice.

 

 

 

Sayema is known to post defending Islamist fundamentalists. During the CAA “protests“, RJ Sayema, along with urban naxals like Swara Bhaskar and The Wire journo Arfa Khanum, was accused of inciting people instead of promoting calm, contributing to the unrest that led to the deaths of 60 people in the Delhi riots.

It is perplexing why the US Embassy in India will choose to engage with anti-national and divisive “influencer” in the name of creating impact regarding “Active citizenship”. Critics argue whether this a sign of “active interference” in Indian affairs and meddling with the politics of the land?

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