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Dravidian Model: DMK Govt Contradicts Itself In Court In Madras Race Club Land Dispute, Stands By AG’s Statement In Morning But Calls It Wrong In Afternoon

By
The Commune
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DMK Govt Contradicts Itself In Court In Madras Race Club Land Dispute

The DMK government in Tamil Nadu made yet another significant reversal in its stance before the Madras High Court on Monday, 23 September 2024. Within the same day, it took two opposing positions regarding the possession of lands leased to the Madras Race Club (MRC).

In the forenoon session, Additional Advocate General (AAG) J. Ravindran, representing the government, assured the court that it stood by the statements made by Advocate General (A-G) P.S. Raman regarding the MRC case. However, by the afternoon session, the government’s legal team contradicted this position, asserting that the A-G’s statements were “wrong both in law and on facts.”

The issue arose during a hearing before Justice RMT Teekaa Raman. In the morning, AAG Ravindran said, “I am instructed to say that this government stands by the undertaking given by the A-G. At no point in time have we differed from his undertaking. We respect his words, and the government stands by them.”

This clarification was significant since senior counsel P. Wilson, representing the Revenue Secretary, had informed the court on 19 September 2024 that the government had resumed possession of the leased lands at Guindy from Madras Race Club on 9 September 2024, contradicting a statement made by A-G Raman to a Division Bench earlier that day.

Senior counsel A.L. Somayaji, representing the MRC, and Gopal Sankaranarayanan, representing the Tamil Nadu Race Horse Owners Association and the Tamil Nadu Race Horse Trainers Welfare Association, requested that the court record the AAG’s morning submission. They argued that it confirmed MRC’s continued possession of the disputed lands.

However, when Wilson requested a brief adjournment, Justice Raman, in a lighthearted comment, asked, “Do you expect another turn of events by 2:30 PM?” Though the remark drew laughter, it turned out to be prescient when the government’s position changed in the afternoon.

Senior counsel Dushyant Dave, appearing for the Revenue Secretary, asserted in the afternoon session that the government had taken possession of the lands on 9 September 2024 at 8 AM. He argued that Madras Race Club could not rely on the A-G’s earlier statement to claim continued possession of the property. “A statement that is wrong in law and fact is never binding on the client,” Dave said.

Sankaranarayanan intervened, pointing out that the AAG had reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the A-G’s statement earlier that morning. The AAG, however, objected, stating that the horse owners and trainers had no role at this stage, as MRC’s civil suit had yet to be formally numbered. The MRC had only filed an application seeking an exemption from the requirement to issue a two-month pre-suit notice.

Dave continued his argument, stating that MRC had received a show cause notice in 2018 for violating the terms of its 1946 lease. The club had responded, but the reply was deemed unsatisfactory. As a result, a Government Order (G.O.) was issued on 6 September 2024, terminating the lease and instructing the Chennai Collector to take possession of the lands immediately.

“It is in the context of this G.O. that the A-G’s statements must be understood,” Dave argued. He contended that the A-G’s statement had been made in error. “We all make mistakes at the Bar as counsel,” he added, emphasizing that the A-G’s statement should not be grounds for challenging the government’s possession of the land.

In response, Somayaji argued that the MRC remained in possession of the land and presented evidence, including horse races conducted on 14 and 21 September 2024. He insisted that the government’s 15-day notice to vacate the property justified waiving the usual two-month pre-suit notice requirement.

When the judge inquired if any revenue proceedings existed to prove the government had taken possession of the land, Dave said no such documents were immediately available. However, he maintained that the government had the right to repossess the land due to the lease violations.

The day’s hearing concluded without a final resolution, and the case will continue on Tuesday. In a related development, Revenue Secretary P. Amudha filed an affidavit stating that the lease with MRC had been officially terminated on 6 September 2024, and possession of the land was taken at 8 AM on 9 September 2024. The MRC had been given 14 days to remove all movable property from the site.

This high-profile case is set to continue with further arguments on Tuesday, 24 September 2024.

(With inputs from The Hindu)

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Israel Warns Of Imminent Strikes On Lebanon, Urging Residents To Evacuate Jerusalem

By
The Commune
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Israel Warns Of Imminent Strikes On Lebanon, Urging Residents To Evacuate Jerusalem

Israel’s military issued a warning on Monday that it was about to attack sites in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, where Hezbollah is allegedly storing strategic weapons, urging civilians to evacuate.

“Distance yourself from houses where weapons are located, for your own protection,” Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman Daniel Hagari said during a press briefing in the afternoon, adding that the attack would begin within the next two hours without providing further details.

This marked the second warning from Hagari on Monday, following an earlier message in the morning for residents of southern Lebanon to evacuate immediately, as Israel planned airstrikes targeting homes allegedly storing Hezbollah’s cruise missiles.

So far, Israel has struck about 300 homes where Hezbollah allegedly hide missiles, Israeli army spokesperson Avichai Adraee said in a statement, Xinhua news agency reported. Israel has launched on Monday a third wave of airstrikes on Lebanon, the IDF said in a statement, resuming an assault that has killed over 100 people since early the day, according to Lebanese health officials.

–IANS

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10 Instances Of Appointments Of Non-Hindus In TTD And Other Hindu Temples/Temple-Run Institutions Across India

By
The Commune
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10 Instances Of Appointments Of Non-Hindus In TTD And Other Hindu Temples/Temple-Run Institutions Across India

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has faced significant scrutiny regarding various appointments involving individuals of Christian faith. Here are six notable cases that have stirred controversy:

Bhumana Karunakar Reddy As TTD Chairman

In August 2023, Tirupati MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy was appointed as the Chairman of TTD. It is noteworthy that his first tenure as TTD chairman was from 2006 to 2008, during the Congress government led by Dr. YS Rajasekhar Reddy, father of the current Chief Minister, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. At the time, Karunakar Reddy was a loyal member of the Congress and a close associate of the YSR family. In 2016, Karunakar Reddy’s daughter, Neeha Reddy, married Y.S. Sumadhur Reddy, a cousin of Jagan Reddy, strengthening his ties with the YSR family. The outgoing TTD Chairman, YV Subba Reddy, is also closely related to Jagan, being his uncle through marriage to Jagan’s maternal aunt.

Additionally, controversy escalated after a video surfaced in which ex-CM Y.S. Jagan Reddy’s mother stated, “We are a Christian family. We go to temples only for Hindu votes.”

https://twitter.com/_Ajaychoudhary1/status/1837047346246594571

There are images of Bhumana Reddy’s daughter’s wedding circulating in social media where the bride and groom are seen to be wearing clothes pertinent to a Christian wedding.

Appointment Of Christian Teachers At Venkateswara School

In January 2023, the State School Education Department automatically appointed three surplus teachers of Christian faith to fill vacant positions at the Sri Venkateswara Higher Secondary School, which is managed by TTD in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. The principal, Napoleon, allowed the teachers to begin work without informing TTD, sparking protests from Hindu staff and local Hindus, as TTD mandates only Hindus can be employed. Following the backlash, the principal informed the District Chief Education Officer that the appointments would require TTD’s permission, and the teachers were sent back to their previous positions.

Hindu activists planned to raise the issue with TTD board members, but the School Education Department later withdrew the appointments after learning that non-Hindus cannot be employed by TTD institutions. The incident adds to ongoing concerns over TTD’s management, with accusations of non-Hindus being employed in its institutions, linked to alleged anti-Hindu actions under Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s government.

A. Rajasekhar Rao’s Dual Identity

In February 2020, a media report revealed that A Rajasekhar Rao, Assistant Executive Officer (AEO) of the Sri Venkateswara (SV) Group of temples, was seen praying at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Puttur. Rao, who was in charge of overseeing the “Parakamani” (Hundi counting) at the Tirumala Mandir, had claimed to be a Hindu while acknowledging that his wife had converted to Christianity. He initially denied participating in any church prayers, stating that he had only entered the church premises with his wife. Following these allegations, Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam (TTD) launched an inquiry on 20 April 2020 (Roc No. DA1/9968/2019) under the supervision of Shri Rajendradu, Special Grade Deputy Executive Officer, SV Group of temples, Vijayawada. The investigation concluded that the charges against Rao were proven. According to the GO 1060 of 1989, appointments to TTD institutions, except for teaching positions, are restricted to individuals professing the Hindu faith. This rule was further strengthened in 2007 by GO 1372, which mandates that all appointments across all categories in TTD-administered or funded institutions must be made exclusively among individuals professing the Hindu religion.

Discovery Of Appointment Of 44 Non-Hindu Employees In AP (TTD)

In 2019, the Andhra Pradesh government under Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy sparked controversy by ordering that non-Hindus would not be allowed employment at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), which manages the Sri Venkateswara temple, one of the richest Hindu temples globally. The new directive stated that only those who converted to Hinduism could retain their jobs, while others would be dismissed. Surprise checks were planned to verify the religious identities of employees.

The controversy was ignited by advertisements on state government bus tickets promoting pilgrimages to Jerusalem for Christians and Haj for Muslims, leading to significant backlash. Accusations against previous administrations also resurfaced, with claims that the proliferation of churches in Tirupati began during Y.S. Reddy’s tenure as Chief Minister.

A sting operation revealed that a senior TTD official regularly attended church, the TTD began identifying non-Hindu staff, ultimately finding 44 employees in violation of guidelines that prohibit non-Hindus from working in temple services. Although most were employed in non-religious roles, the TTD plans to reassign them to other state departments. New measures will require all TTD employees to wear “Thiru Namam,” a traditional Hindu mark, to ensure adherence to the temple’s religious identity and prevent further controversy over non-Hindu appointments.

Vangalapudi Anita On TTD Trust Board

In 2018, the appointment of Payakaraopet legislator Vangalapudi Anita, reportedly a Christian, to the then-newly constituted Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Trust Board sparked controversy. A video of her confirming her Christian background went viral, prompting criticism from right-wing organizations. The Andhra Pradesh government, which reformed the board after the previous term ended, faced backlash, particularly for appointing chairman Putta Sudhakar Yadav, who was accused of attending Christian events, raising concerns about his suitability to lead an organization meant to uphold Hindu Dharma.

In the video, Anita admits to marrying a Hindu but maintains her Christian identity, stating, “I always keep a Bible in my bag.” This incident follows a previous controversy in January, when the TTD relocated 45 non-Hindu employees after a video of one staff member visiting a church went viral, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding non-Hindus in temple management.

Snehalatha’s Church Visits

In 2017, Snehalatha, a Deputy Executive Officer in TTD’s Welfare Department, was found to be in gross violation of service rules by regularly attending a Christian Lutheran church in an official car. Additionally, she reportedly never took ‘Prasadam’ but accepted gifts during Brahmotsavam, leading to questions about her adherence to TTD’s Hindu traditions.

 

The TTD is governed by the A.P. Charitable & Hindu Religious Institutions & Endowments Act (1987), which mandates that executive officers must be Hindu. Past investigations have highlighted similar issues, recommending thorough probes into the backgrounds of non-Hindu employees and prohibiting the propagation of non-Hindu religions within Tirumala. Despite a pledge by TTD employees to uphold Hindu Dharma, concerns persist about Christian proselytization and the presence of non-Hindus in key positions.

Nawaz Appointed At Shri Avimukteshwara Swamy Temple

In 2024, a Muslim man named Nawaz was appointed to the committee responsible for organizing the Brahmotsavam festivities at the Shri Avimukteshwara Swamy Temple, located in the Bangalore Rural District of Karnataka. His appointment raised eyebrows, considering the religious significance of the temple and the traditional expectations surrounding its administration.

Non-Hindu Employees From Maa Sharda Temple, MP

In 2023, the Madhya Pradesh government’s Department of Culture announced the removal of non-Hindu employees associated with the Maa Sharda Temple in Maihar, Satna district. The individuals affected by this decision included Abid Hussain, Ayub Khan, and Yusuf Khan. Till 2023, the Maa Sharda Management Committee had three Muslim employees, who had been working there since 1988 including legal advisor Abid Hussain, who faced criticism for the committee’s inability to win court cases. Following a memorandum from Hindu organizations demanding the removal of Muslim staff and the closure of meat and liquor shops, SDM Dharmendra Mishra announced a meeting to discuss potential actions.

Non-Hindus Appointed At Maa Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangra

In 2021, in Himachal Pradesh, the state government appointed Jashan Deen and Shakeen Mohhamad, both from the non-Hindu community, as langar sevakars at the Maa Jwalamukhi Temple in Kangra. This decision faced opposition from the nine non-government members of the temple, who expressed their discontent with the appointments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the temple’s Hindu identity.

17 Non-Hindu Employees At Srisailam Devasthanams

In 2019, a shocking revelation came when it was reported that 17 non-Hindu employees were appointed at various levels within the administration of the Srisailam Devasthanams in Andhra Pradesh. Among these non-Hindu employees were Muslims like S. Khasim Vali, S. A. Wahab, and S. A. Rasool, alongside Christians including Ch. Yohan, D. Ibrahim, K. Yebu, M. Chandi Bai, Y. Israel, P.Daniel, K.Benjamin, C.Emanuel, Ch. Isak, D.Devaraju, G.Mery, J.Lazar, J.Mariyamma, K.K. Mariamma.

It is noteworthy that in January 2021, the Andhra High Court stated, “If a person is known after a name found in the Bible, attended a Christian meeting, read the Holy Bible, and kept the Cross in his house, all these cannot be construed to mean he’s a Christian.”

In October 2021, the Madras High Court stated, ‘going to Church or displaying Holy Cross cannot be grounds to cancel SC certificate.’

In July 2023, the Mumbai High Court stated, ‘Mere’ cross at entrance and bust of Jesus inside house is no basis to discard claim for Hindu Mahar scheduled caste certificate’.

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SC Quashes Madras HC Judgment Holding That Watching Child Pornography In Private Not POCSO Offence

By
The Commune
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SC Quashes Madras HC Judgment Holding That Watching Child Pornography In Private Not POCSO Offence

The Supreme Court on Monday set aside a decision of the Madras High Court, which had held that watching pornography involving children in private would not fall within the scope of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The judgment authored by Justice J.B. Pardiwala suggested that the Parliament should seriously consider substituting the term “child pornography” with “child sexual exploitative and abuse material” (CSEAM), and in the meantime, the Union government may bring an ordinance to amend the POCSO. Further, the top court asked all the courts across the country not to use the term “child pornography” in any judicial order or judgment and instead endorse the term “child sexual exploitative and abuse material (CSEAM).”

In its judgment, the Supreme Court said that an offence under Section 15 of the POCSO is in the nature and form of an inchoate offence, which penalises the mere storage or possession of any pornographic material involving a child when done with a specific intent prescribed thereunder, without requiring any actual transmission, dissemination etc. The CJI D.Y. Chandrachud-led Bench, in March this year, issued a notice on the plea challenging the Madras High Court order which had held that downloading and possessing child pornography does not amount to any offence.

The Madras High Court, in its impugned judgment, had quashed the FIR and criminal proceedings against a 28-year-old Chennai man, holding that watching child pornography in private would not fall within the scope of the POCSO Act. A Bench of Justice N. Anand Venkatesh reasoned that the accused had merely downloaded the material and watched the pornography in private. It was neither published nor transmitted to others. “Since he has not used a child or children for pornographic purposes, at best, it can only be construed as a moral decay on the part of the accused person,” it said.

The Chennai police registered an FIR under Sections 67 B of the Information Technology Act and Section 14(1) of the POCSO Act after it seized the phone of the accused and discovered that he had downloaded and possessed child sexual exploitative and abuse material.

–IANS

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Public-Private Partnership Model Brings Strength Of Public & Private Sector Together: Rajnath Singh

By
The Commune
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Public-Private Partnership Model Brings Strength Of Public & Private Sector Together: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday inaugurated the Shri Bhawani Niketan Sainik School in Jaipur, which will operate under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. He emphasised the need for public-private partnerships to advance the nation through education combined with soldiery discipline.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony of Sainik School run under Shri Bhavani Niketan Shiksha Samiti located on Sikar Road in Jaipur, Rajnath Singh described himself fortunate to inaugurate the Sainik School here. He reflected on his own background as a teacher and said that it was a special honour to be present at the inauguration of a Sainik School. “I am happy that I have been a teacher,” he added. Further speaking on the rich history of Rajasthan, he said, “The land of Rajasthan is known not only for bravery but also for culture. Heroes like Maharana Pratap, Prithviraj Chauhan, Surajmal and Sawai Jai Singh were born here. Opening of Sainik School on the land of Rajasthan is no less than a blessing.”

He added: “Some people might think that many Sainik Schools are already running in the country. So, why was there a need to open 100 new Sainik Schools?” The Defence Minister replied to this query, “Actually, the Sainik Schools that have been in the country till now were established with the joint efforts of the Central and state governments. The state government used to allocate land, and the central government played other roles. All the old Sainik Schools of the country were running similarly. But, the 100 new Sainik Schools that PM Modi has set a target of establishing in the country are not being run through the partnership of the Central and state governments but based on the PPP model, i.e. Public-Private Partnership.”

He then emphasised the role of private entities in shaping the Indian economy and said, “The PPP model suits our system as it helps to bring in the strength of public and private sector together.” “Private sector contributes to over 50 per cent of the country’s economy, and hence PPP can be termed Private-Public Partnership.” Rajnath Singh also quoted the ancient education system, saying, “In our ancient education system, the focus has been on literature, science and mathematics along with spirituality.” He also quoted the lines spoken by former PM Atal Behari Vajpayee and said he used to say, “A person with a small mind can never become great, a person with a broken mind can never stand up. As the mind expands, happiness and joy will increase.” The Defence Minister praised Rajasthan’s historical significance, noting that the state has always played a key role in every era.

He highlighted Rajasthan’s reputation not only for its bravery but also for its rich traditions. Speaking of Jaipur, he emphasised its renowned architecture, cultural heritage, and popular tourist attractions, which make it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to India. He also paid homage to the legendary figures of the state, including Maharana Pratap, Prithviraj Chauhan, Maharaja Surajmal, and Sawai Mansingh.

Rajnath Singh also highlighted the vital characteristics of Sainik Schools and said that they inculcate commitment towards values and discipline and hence a student gets comprehensive development which inspires him to take his country forward. “Sainik Schools have delivered renowned talent. Our Army Chief is a passout from Sainik School. In fact, students here can choose a career as per their choice; they can be doctor, engineer, banker, civil servant and others, however their learnings from Sainik schools will stay with them, this is what I believe,” he said.

Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari expressed gratitude to PM Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and said that after 2014, a strong defence shield has been created in the country. “The government is completely with the soldiers. PM Modi also celebrates Diwali with the soldiers. I am proud that I am a soldier’s daughter,” she said.

–IANS

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Bengaluru Horror: 29-Year-Old Mahalakshmi’s Dismembered Body Found In Refrigerator In A Chilling Reminder Of Shraddha Walkar Case, Suspect Alleged To Be Ashraf

By
The Commune
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Mahalakshmi was discovered inside a refrigerator

In a chilling case of crime that has left Bengaluru and the nation in horror, the dismembered body of 29-year-old Mahalakshmi was discovered inside a refrigerator at her rented apartment in Vyalikaval, Malleshwaram on 21 September 2024. Her body, which had been cut into more than 30 pieces, was found after her mother, Meena Rana, filed a missing complaint with the police.

Mahalakshmi, a team leader at a costume outlet in Malleshwaram, had been living separately from her husband, Hemant Das, due to ongoing domestic disputes.

The police have identified a suspect allegedly named Ashraf, believed to be from West Bengal, and efforts are underway to apprehend him. Karnataka’s Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, confirmed the investigation is progressing, stating that the police have collected crucial details but cannot share them publicly. The suspect is reportedly not from Karnataka, and authorities are confident of making an arrest soon.

Mahalakshmi had filed a complaint against her husband in February, accusing him of assault, while Hemant had also accused her of having an extramarital affair. The couple had been separated for nine months, with their daughter living with Hemant in Nelamangala. The police had previously registered a Non-Cognisable Report (NCR) concerning the domestic disputes between Mahalakshmi and her husband, Hemant Das, with family members attempting to mediate and resolve the issues.

On Sunday, 22 September 2024, Hemant shared that he and Mahalakshmi had been married for six years and had a daughter. He claimed that an extramarital affair triggered the couple’s separation Mahalakshmi allegedly had with a barber from Uttarakhand. “They both had an extra-marital affair, which led to the problem, and I discovered it somewhere in April-May last year. We were separated for the last nine months, and I do not know whether she was in contact with the man. He was also told not to meet her when she separated, but I did not know if he met her. For the first four months, my daughter stayed with her (Mahalakshmi), and later, she lived with me in Nelamangala,” Hemant said, as reported in Indian Express.

He also mentioned that Mahalakshmi visited Nelamangala about a month ago to see their daughter. “She was calm and did not talk much about her life,” he added.

Mahalakshmi’s brother recounted, “I visited her in July and stayed with her for a few days in another house. After I left, she rented a new place and started living there.” He also mentioned that they had planned to meet on 15 August 2024 to celebrate Independence Day together. Mahalakshmi’s brother mentioned that she had been unreachable since 4 September 2024.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda, while addressing the media, confirmed that the prime suspect has been identified. However, the police are still determining whether more individuals were involved in the murder. Mahalakshmi’s body was handed over to her family following a post-mortem examination. Authorities have registered a case under Section 103 (1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as the investigation continues.

The case has drawn attention to concerns over women’s safety in Karnataka. Home Minister Parameshwara assured the public that the state is continuing efforts to ensure security through programs like Nirbhaya, with measures including increased CCTV installations.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to arrest the suspect and uncover further details behind the gruesome murder.

Reminder Of Shraddha Walkar Case

In November 2022, the nation woke up to a spine-chilling murder case of Shraddha Walkar by her live-in partner, Aftab. Aftab Ameen Poonawalla and Shraddha were living in Delhi’s Mehrauli area. Both of them worked together at a call centre in Mumbai. He got to her through a dating app. The two started dating and moved in to live together. Since Shraddha’s family disapproved of the relationship, the couple eloped to Delhi.

Aftab strangled the 26-year-old Shraddha on 18 May 2022, following a heated argument as she had asked him to marry her. He then dismembered her body with a sharp weapon into 35 pieces and bought a fridge to store them. He then threw the butchered body parts at 18 different locations in Delhi over the next 18 days. To avoid being caught, he reportedly left the house in the wee hours carrying 1-2 body parts in a plastic bag.

Since Shraddha did not communicate or update her social media accounts, her concerned father came to Delhi to check her flat, which was found locked. He then filed a missing person complaint with the Mumbai police and also told them about his daughter’s relationship with Aftab, whom he suspected to be behind her disappearance. Her last location was found to be in Delhi.

In a statement, the Delhi police said that the Mehrauli Police had solved the six-month-old case and arrested Aftab for killing Shraddha, chopping her into pieces and disposing of them. Ironically, Aftab, on his social media, had shared posts positioning him as a champion of women and gay rights.

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We Have ‘Psychologically’ Defeated PM Modi, Says Rahul Gandhi In J&K

By
The Commune
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There Will Be Two MPs From Wayanad As I Will Be Unofficial One: Rahul Gandhi

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Monday in J&K’s Poonch district that the Congress party has “psychologically defeated” the Prime Minister.

Addressing a large NC-Congress election campaign rally in the Surankote area of Poonch district, Rahul Gandhi said, “BJP and RSS people in J&K and other states spread hatred and violence. They make brother fight against brother. They only know to spread hatred and their politics is based on hatred. Hatred cannot be defeated by hatred. It can only be defeated by love. On one side are people spreading hatred, and on the other side are we, those who want to open the shop of love. During our Bharat Yatra, we opened the shop of love in every state in India.”

“Narendra Modi of today is not a shade of what he was in the past. They bring laws, and we oppose them, and they cannot pass laws now. We have defeated the psychology of Narendra Modi. When he came under pressure during the Lok Sabha polls, he said he was not ‘biological’ pretending to be in direct connection with God. This shows we have broken him psychologically by defeating his hatred with our love,” said Gandhi, the opposition leader (LoP) in the Lok Sabha.

“In India, UTs are made out of states, states are divided into two states, but never in our constitutional history has a state been downgraded into a UT. Today, your democratic right has been snatched. We will put enough pressure on them to restore your statehood,” said Rahul Gandhi.

“Today, all your decisions are taken from Delhi, but we want your decisions to be taken in J&K. We wanted statehood before the election, but they did not. They divide people based on region, language, and community. They are trying to divide Gujjars and Paharis. We will carry everybody together, give all of them their rights and move forward together,” said the Congress leader. While commenting on the job scenarios, he alleged, “In the entire country, Narendra Modi helps only two to three billionaires. He has waived off Rs 16 lakh crore of billionaires’ loans. He has finished small industries, and because of this, employment is not available in the country, including for J&K. A congress candidate is fighting from here, and NC is supporting us. I appeal to all my workers to support NC candidates wherever they fight elections,” said Gandhi.

National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah also accompanied Rahul Gandhi to Surankote, where he addressed the Congress poll rally. Abdullah said, “The future PM of India, Rahul Gandhi, is here today, and our war is against the hatred spread by BJP and RSS. They first tried to divide people based on religion and now they want to divide us in the name of communities. This PM says Muslims are intruders, and they produce a lot of children. He tells our Hindu sisters and daughters that Muslims will snatch their ‘Mangalsutra’. We joined hands to fight this. I request that the BJP candidate, Chowdhary Akram, withdraw from the contest and support the NC-Congress candidate in Surankote. If you want to end hatred, vote for the Congress.”

“Rahul Gandhi says he wants to stop the shop of hatred, but we add to his words that we want to sink the boat of hatred,” Abdullah further said. He appealed to voters to vote in favour of the Congress candidate in this Assembly constituency, Shahnawaz Choudhary.

–IANS

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Congress Insults Dalit Leaders Like Selja, Says Amit Shah In Haryana

By
The Commune
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Congress Insults Dalit Leaders Like Selja, Says Amit Shah In Haryana

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Congress has constantly disrespected Dalit leaders, be it Ashok Tanwar or Kumari Selja, and even did not give Dr B.R. Ambedkar Bharat Ratna when it was in power. Minister Shah said this on Monday at a public meeting in Tohana town in Haryana’s Fatehabad district.

“If there is anybody who can protect the SC (Scheduled Caste) and OBC (Other Backward Class) reservation, it is PM (Narendra) Modi,” he said while slamming Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on the reservation. In the last ten years of the BJP government in the state, Shah said, “Haryana has become free from corruption and hooliganism and is rapidly progressing on the path of development.”

The districts of Rohtak, Sonepat, Jind, and Hisar are known as the state’s Jat heartland, although the community also has a formidable presence in Jhajjar, Bhiwani, Sirsa, and Fatehabad. Jats constitute about 25 per cent of the state’s electorate and have traditionally dominated politics.

Eyeing to woo the voters in the region, who essentially constitute Sikhs, HM Shah asked Rahul Gandhi, “What are you talking about? You have a history of disrespecting the Sikh community. Thousands of Sikhs were killed on roads during the Delhi riots, and your party was at the helm. Even children and mothers were not spared…Rahul baba, if you want to do something, wear a turban, go to a gurdwara and apologise to our Sikh brothers.”

Minister Shah was addressing a Jan Ashirvaad Rally in Haryana to support BJP candidates Devender Singh Babli from Tohana and former parliamentarian Sunil Duggal from Ratia, with top party leaders in attendance. Clarifying the recruitment of all Agniveers from Haryana in government jobs after retirement from the Indian Army, Shah said, “About Agniveer, Rahul Baba is misguiding the youth. I am firm in what I say, and today, I am saying that none of the Agniveers of Haryana will be left. The Haryana government will provide them jobs equivalent to their pension,” he said.

Shah said middlemen in Delhi are waiting for the Congress to come into power in Haryana. “I want to ask the people of Tohana if they want to give Haryana to the middlemen?”

The BJP leader said the Congress governments were there to make “Delhi’s son-in-law happy. Farmers’ land was allotted at cheap rates. In (Bhupinder) Hooda Saheb’s government, (property) dealers have much say, the son-in-law has a say, and the corrupts have a say. The BJP has ended the government of the dealer and son-in-law”. “Hooda Saheb has promised to give two lakhs jobs. It’s in the manifesto of the Congress and I want to ask the leaders of the Congress party that these two lakh jobs will be given on the ‘kharchi-parchi’ (corruption-favouritism) system,” Shah said in his 25-minute address in Hindi.

Haryana will go to the polls for the 90-member assembly on October 5 with the counting on October 8. In the 2019 Assembly elections, the BJP, which won 40 seats, well below the 75-plus target, and was six short of a majority in the 90-member Assembly, announced an alliance with the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) led by Dushyant Chautala, a great-grandson of former Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal.

The rival Congress won 31 seats, while the less-than-year-old JJP, which broke away from the state’s once major regional Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) owing to family disputes, won 10 seats. Seven Independents and one each of the INLD and the Haryana Lokhit Party had also won. In the 2014 Assembly polls, BJP had won 47 seats and formed the government in the state for the first time.

–IANS

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Archbishop Hails India’s Diversity, Lauds PM Modi’s Concern For All, Including Minorities

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The Commune
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Archbishop Hails India’s Diversity, Lauds PM Modi's Concern For All, Including Minorities

Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the Archbishop of Bombay, on Monday, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for pursuing inclusivity in all spheres of his governance and said that his concern for everyone instils a feeling of confidence even among minorities.

Speaking to media persons after the ‘Ek Ped Ma ke Naam’ programme in Mumbai, Archbishop Gracias said PM Modi is concerned about everyone, including minority communities. “I am confident that he has the interests of every minority, including the Christian community, in mind in all his plans and progress.”

He also hailed India’s diversity and called it a key pillar of its greatness. “Our greatness lies in our diversity — people, cultures, languages, and religions. I believe no other country has our richness,” he said.

Sharing his views on the celebration of ‘Sewa Pakhwada’ to mark PM Modi’s birthday, Cardinal Gracias said, “Today was a very significant event as a part of the Sewa Pakhwada 2024. We had a programme to encourage our youth and everybody else also to make sure Earth’s resources are very wisely used.

“The sapling plantation today symbolised our continuous commitment to care for the Earth and nature for future generations. We hope a movement begins here in the country and the world. I am happy that the government of India has taken the initiative to do this, and I am thankful to the Prime Minister for encouraging this movement (tree plantations).”

The Christian community of Maharashtra organized a ‘Sewa Pakhwada’ on Monday to celebrate PM Modi’s 74th birthday with a ‘prayer for peace’. Notably, Sewa Pakhwada is a 15-day event, organised every year from September 17 to October 2, to mark PM Modi’s birthday. The period as part of the party’s devotion to poor and marginalised sections. During this period, various activities, from health camps to blood donation drives to cleanliness drives, are organised throughout the country.

–IANS

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“Without VCK’s Votebank, DMK Cannot Win, A Cinema Star Becomes Dy CM, Why Not Thirumavalavan?”, VCK’s Aadhav Arjuna Stirs The Hornet’s Nest

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The Commune
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"Without VCK's Votebank, DMK Cannot Win, A Cinema Star Becomes Dy CM, Why Not Thirumavalavan?", VCK's Aadhav Arjuna Stirs The Hornet's Nest

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi has been showing increasing displeasure with the DMK for quite a while now. The cracks in the alliance seem to be becoming more and more visible as the days pass.

Recently, an interview between Aadhav Arjuna, Deputy General Secretary of the VCK, and Thanthi TV seemed to endorse these fissures even more. Responding to the question about Thirumavalavan’s recent ‘power-sharing’ comment, he said, “The cadre wanting to address issues faced by the community suggested that it would be nice if Thirumavalavan could become the Chief Minister or have a Cabinet position.”

Aadhav Arjuna added, “In 46 constituencies, there are not many good schemes announced by the government for Dalits. They are in extreme poverty, there are education-related issues, and no one could enter the professional education system. Everyone knows about it but we cannot turn a blind eye to it because we are not in power – VCK or Dalits.”

The anchor said VCK had to contest independently and not piggyback on some other party’s vote bank to achieve it. Arjuna said, “If you take a look at DMK’s history, Anna won in 1967 for several reasons, such as creating a campaign against central government policies like the Hindi language policy. It is believed that MGR had a role to play in such matters. The main reason for this was Rajaji’s Swatantra party. DMK opposed Rajaji their whole life, but they allied with the same Rajaji, winning 18 MLA seats. Anna also wins with a majority – can you call this statecraft or election politics?”

To this, the anchor questioned, “But Rajaji did not ask for a share in power“. Arjuna replied, “The situation did not arise. We should learn about that from Kalaignar. In 2004, he created a big alliance and won 40/40 seats. It is a coalition in the centre and their government in the state. At that time, there was a need for 272 MPs to stay in power, so DMK was a part of this alliance and won 40 seats. DMK, on its own, won only 16 seats. This is about 6% on a national level. But for this, they got 8 minister posts – 4 cabinet ministers. So if DMK can do it, why do we think it is wrong if some other party does it? And if Thirumavalavan speaks about this in public, why is it wrong? He has been in politics for 40 years, a PhD holder, he is a Periyarist, Ambedkarite, well-read, he can read without any form of paper in hand for 2 hours but if he wants to come to power, everyone belittles him and talks him down.”

Subsequently, the anchor threw a hypothetical question and said if VCK, which had only a 2% vote share in the recently concluded LS polls, depended on a party such as ADMK or DMK, which has a 30% vote share, how was it right to ask for a share in power. Arjuna reversed the question, put it back to the anchor, and said, “Let me reverse this to you: if your party has a 30% vote share, why don’t you contest the polls by yourself and win? Why do you need 2% and 6% to add to that ‘big’30% vote share? Because there is an alliance, we are contesting only two seats. You can contest alone. In 2014, Madam Jayalalithaa contested alone and did not speak to anyone. Like that, you can contest all 234 constituencies alone. Both DMK and VCK need each other. If there were no alliance, DMK would not have won. Take ADMK for example. In 2021, ADMK had a 33% vote share. I was a part of the campaign. Dalit and minority votes dropped because it allied with the BJP.”

Aadhav Arjuna further said, “This is like Maamannan film, which allows people to understand the point easily. My leader (Thirumavalavan) is taking things slowly. But the cadre are eager to see their leader in power, they wonder why he has to slog so much more. Someone who was in the film industry yesterday wants to become the Chief Minister, someone who came to politics yesterday is going to become the Deputy CM they say, so why is my leader still not one? VCK’s ground-level cadres have this sentiment and I am addressing that. What is wrong with having a share in power or having a Dalit CM? Why are you stressing on Dalit CM? Just call it Chief Minister. We have to create a Chief Minister for the public.”

He further said, “What can VCK’s principles be? Should it be what DMK thinks and acts upon? Or should we focus on how to improve the party and make it grow, focus on how to make VCK members minister? We want to focus on making our leader the Dy CM or Chief Minister. What DMK think about that, will DMK suffer because of that, or what ADMK or other parties will think is not our cadres’ job?”

He continued, “When a party has grown, why should we ask for seats in the alliance? There is no big party here. If they are a big party, they must contest alone in all 234 constituencies. We will come together, form an alliance based on an agenda, and decide how governance should be. When policies are not right in governments, we must raise questions. We recently voiced out against the Murugan Conference. Why did we do it? As per DMK’s ideology, you conduct a Periyar Conference and talk about his equality principles, but instead of doing that, we were the first ones to question why they conducted the Murugan Conference. You cannot say that we raised this question because of our comment on share in power.

Even today, when Vijay has entered politics, people speak about him becoming CM but no one talks the same of Thirumavalavan. Why is everyone looking at him with a casteist mindset?”

Regarding VCK being a 2.5% vote bank, Aadhav Arjuna said, “In the north constituencies in TN, without VCK’s vote bank, DMK cannot win. You can check statistics for yourself. We have that much of an influence. If DMK has to win 50 out of 58 constituencies in north TN, they can win in the delta region, in the south it is 50-50, in the west it is difficult, only then they can cross 120. Since 1996, they have never formed a majority government. The victory in the northern constituencies is important for the DMK and VCK has a 60% share in it. 100% votes from Dalits and OBCs will vote for VCK. Everyone fights for the elections and wins but the victory is enjoyed only by DMK.”

Notably, Aadhav Arjuna is the son-in-law of ‘Lottery King Santiago Martin. Arjuna, who recently became the president of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), surprised many with his switch to VCK. He was previously associated with a group led by Sabareesan, the son-in-law of Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin.

In this interview, too, Arjuna insisted that he had nothing to do with his father-in-law’s business and had not inherited any wealth from Martin. He claims to be a self-made entrepreneur. He joined VCK during their ‘Vellum Sananayagam’ conference in Trichy, which saw large crowds and praise from party leader Thol. Thirumavalavan thanked Arjuna for supporting the event.

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