Facebook Instagram X Youtube
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Facebook Instagram X Youtube
Home Blog Page 940

NCW Takes Suo Motu Cognizance Of Sexual Harassment Of 13 Minor Girls During Fake NCC Camp in Krishnagiri, Directs DGP To Submit DAR

By
The Commune
-
NCW Takes Suo Motu Cognizance Of Sexual Harassment Of 13 Minor Girls At Fake NCC Camp

On 21 August 2024, the National Commission for Women (NCW) initiated suo motu action regarding a case of sexual assault involving minor girls, which allegedly occurred under the pretense of an “NCC camp” at a private school in Bargur, Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu. Reports indicated that 13 girls were sexually abused during this incident and one them was affiliated with Naam Tamizhar Katchi (NTK) party.

The NCW has instructed the Director General of Police (DGP) in Chennai to conduct a thorough and prompt investigation in Krishnagiri, ensuring that those responsible are charged under the appropriate laws. Additionally, the commission has requested a detailed report on the actions taken from both the police and the state government within three days.

The NCW announced on its official X account that the “National Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report titled “13 girl sexually abused at fake NCC camp” from Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu. The commission has directed DGP Chennai to ensure a fair, time bound investigation, booking the accused under relevant laws. A detailed action taken report has been sought from the police and from the state govt within 3 days. @chennaipolice_ @NaduFor.”

Context to the Case

In a disturbing incident in Tamil Nadu, a 13-year-old girl was reportedly been sexually assaulted by a Naam Tamizhar Katchi (NTK) functionary during a fraudulent National Cadet Corps (NCC) camp held at a private school near Bargur in Krishnagiri district on 8th August 2024. Eleven individuals, including the school principal and several teachers, were initially arrested in the case. The primary suspect was on the run but was eventually apprehended on 19 August 2024 and charged under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the BNS Act.

The three-day camp, which ran from 5 to 9 August 2024, was held at a private school with no official connection to the NCC. The school hosted 41 students, including 17 girls, for the fake NCC camp.

The case came to light after the victim complained to the police about being assaulted by a camp trainer despite several threats from school authorities. Police then arrested eleven people, including the camp organiser, school principal, two teachers, and a correspondent. The main accused, a 30-year-old man named Sivaraman, remains absconding.

Fake Camp Trainer Molests Student

During the camp, girls stayed on the first floor of the school auditorium, while boys were housed on the ground floor. No teachers were assigned to supervise them.

On the night of 8th August, Sivaraman, who was a trainer at the fake camp, allegedly coerced a 13-year-old girl to come out of her accommodation and assaulted her. He was the district youth wing secretary of the NTK political party, which expelled him in the wake of this incident. Investigations revealed that Sivaraman was also accused of sexually harassing 13 other girls during the camp.

After a week of the alleged crimes, one of the girls reported the assault by calling the police control room, leading to an investigation. Medical examinations of the girls have been conducted, and the District Child Welfare Committee has initiated action.

It was revealed that the school management, including the principal and two teachers, were aware of the sexual offences but chose to suppress the information rather than report it to the authorities. The students were allegedly instructed not to take the incidents seriously.

Sivaraman Booked Under POCSO Act

In the aftermath, the Bargur All-Women’s Police booked Sivaraman under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and authorities are currently searching for him. The school’s correspondent, principal, and several others, including members of the fake NCC group, have been arrested.

The investigation also uncovered that the school needed to conduct proper background checks on the individuals organising the camp. The Tamil Nadu government and child rights activists have called for stringent action against the school management for failing to protect the students and not reporting the crime promptly.

The Krishnagiri Superintendent of Police, P. Thangadurai, confirmed that the police are investigating whether the group behind the fake NCC camp has conducted similar operations at other schools. The District Child Welfare Committee has initiated further actions, including performing medical examinations of the affected girls and seeking accountability from the school authorities.

Subscribe to our Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram channels and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

National Conference Release Manifesto Ahead Of Assembly Polls In J&K; Refers To Hindu Temples In Kashmir By Islamic Name

By
The Commune
-

The National Conference released its manifesto as Jammu and Kashmir gear up for their first Assembly elections in a decade. The manifesto suggests the region’s potential erasure of Hindu heritage and the complete restoration of Article 370 in Kashmir. It refers to Shankaracharya Hill as Takht-i-Sulaiman and Hari Parbat as Koh-e-Maran.

The elections are scheduled in three phases: 18 September, 25 September, and 1 October 2024, with vote counting on 4 October 2024. These elections will be crucial in determining the future political landscape of J&K. NC manifesto promises to address the unique political, economic, and social challenges facing the Union Territory (UT).

Below is a detailed overview of the key NC commitments:

Restoration of Articles 370 & 35A

A central theme of the NC’s manifesto is the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, rescinded in August 2019, leading to the revocation of J&K’s special status. The NC would fight for the return of these constitutional provisions.

Repeal of the Public Safety Act (PSA)

The manifesto also promises to repeal the controversial Public Safety Act (PSA), which has been criticised for its use in detaining individuals without trial. The NC argues that the PSA has been misused to stifle dissent and that its repeal is necessary to restore civil liberties in J&K.

Indo-Pak Dialogue and Regional Peace

The NC advocates for renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve ongoing conflicts and promote peace in South Asia. The party emphasises that the aspirations for peace among the people of J&K should drive this diplomatic engagement.

Autonomy and Constitutional Safeguards

The NC has reiterated its commitment to fully implementing the autonomy resolution passed by the J&K Assembly in 2000. This resolution seeks to restore the state’s pre-1953 constitutional position.

Opposition to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) & Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA)

The manifesto strongly opposes the implementation of the UCC and the CAA. The NC has promised to protect the land and employment rights of J&K residents.

Rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits & Community Reconciliation

The NC has reaffirmed its commitment to the “dignified return and rehabilitation” of Kashmiri Pandits who were displaced from the region. The party also proposes the formation of a “truth and reconciliation commission” aimed at healing communal divides and fostering harmony within communities.

Economic Initiatives

The NC has proposed the passage of the J&K Youth Employment Generation Act. This Act aims to provide 1 lakh jobs within three months of coming to power. The party also promises to fill government vacancies within 180 days to address unemployment.

Addressing Power Crisis & Welfare Schemes

The NC has pledged to transfer hydroelectric projects to J&K to address the UT’s power crisis. The party also promises residents 200 free units of electricity and a one-time settlement for outstanding electricity bills.

The manifesto also includes social welfare measures such as monthly assistance of Rs 5,000 to female heads of EWS households and increasing the monthly rice allocation to 10 kg per person. Further promises include providing six free cylinders annually to economically weaker sections, free travel for women on public transport, and establishing a minority commission.

Furthermore, the party has also committed to enhancing pensioners’ medical allowances and improving the region’s Public Distribution System (PDS).

Troubling Aspects Of National Conference’s Manifesto

The National Conference manifesto for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections includes several promises that raise significant concerns.

NC has pledged to strive for the complete restoration of Articles 370 and 35A and reinstate Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood as it existed before 5 August 2019. On this date, the central government abrogated Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories.

Reintroducing Article 370 would re-establish the constitutional division between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India, which is viewed as a step backwards in national integration. The abrogation of Article 370 was a move towards bringing Jammu and Kashmir into complete constitutional alignment with the rest of the country, eliminating the perceived legal and political barriers that separated the region from the rest of India.

The special status under Article 370 was primarily responsible for fostering a sense of separatism in the region. Bringing it back could reignite tensions and instability. The manifesto’s promise to undo post-August 2019 legislation could reverse the progress toward normalcy and peace in J&K over the past five years.

Potential Erasure Of Hindu Heritage In Kashmir?

NC proposes connecting Shankaracharya Hill with Hari Parbat Fort through a gondola system to promote tourism. However, the language used in the National Conference manifesto—referring to Shankaracharya Hill as Takht-i-Sulaiman and Hari Parbat as Koh-e-Maran—raises concerns about the erasure of these significant landmarks’ Hindu history and identity.

Shankaracharya Hill and Hari Parbat for Hindus

Shankaracharya Hill and Hari Parbat are deeply significant to Hindus and are a legacy of Kashmir’s Hindu ancestors. By referring to these sites by their Islamic names, NC is severing Kashmir from its Hindu heritage. This shift in vocabulary might contribute to a broader narrative that sidelines the region’s Hindu past. The whitewashing of Hindu identity in Kashmir is already a sensitive issue, given the historical exodus of Kashmiri Pandits.

Such moves could further deepen communal divides and can be seen as an attempt to alter or rewrite the region’s cultural and religious history.

It is noteworthy that for the first time in the history of J&K, 1.88 crore tourists visited the UT in the previous year, 2022. This was possible only after the abrogation of Article 370. Such a record was among the 17 firsts J&K and Ladakh saw after the abrogation. 

Subscribe to us on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram to get the best stories of the day.

Udaipur, RJ: Teenage Hindu Boy Stabbed To Death By Islamist Classmate; The Wire Downplayed Brutality As ‘Injury’, Obsesses Over Bulldozer Action

By
The Commune
-

The city of Udaipur has been gripped by tension following the death of a 15-year-old boy, Devraj Mochi, who succumbed to injuries after being ‘allegedly‘ stabbed by his classmate, Ayaan Sheikh, at a government school. The incident, which has resulted in communal unrest, took place on 16 August 2024 and has led to widespread violence and a significant security clampdown in the city.

Background

Devraj, a class 10 student at Government Senior Secondary School in Bhatiyani Chauhatta, Udaipur, was stabbed with a knife during a heated exchange on school premises by his classmate allegedly named Ayan Khan and sustained severe injuries. He was rushed to Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital, where he battled for his life in the intensive care unit under the supervision of a team of specialists from Jaipur. After four days in critical condition, Devraj passed away on Monday, 19 August 2024.

The news of his death triggered immediate unrest across Udaipur. A large crowd gathered at Mukherjee Nagar Chowk and marched to the hospital, demanding justice and access to the boy. Protests quickly escalated, with mobs taking to the streets, setting vehicles on fire, and attacking properties, including a shopping mall. The situation prompted the district administration to impose Section 144, banning public gatherings and suspending mobile internet services to restore order.

In response to the tragedy, the local government in Udaipur announced a compensation package of ₹51 lakh for Devraj’s family and promised a government job to a family member. However, this announcement has done little to soothe the aggrieved Hindu community, which feels deeply affected by the incident.

Bulldozer Action

Authorities demolished the rented house where Ayan Sheikh’s family lived, which was reportedly constructed illegally on Forest Department land. The 15-year-old accused has been detained under the Juvenile Justice Act.

Devraj’s funeral, held on Tuesday under tight security, saw a large turnout of people expressing their grief and anger. The procession, which started from his home, was accompanied by senior district officials, and chants demanding justice for Devraj echoed throughout the city.

How The Wire Peddled Its Narrative 

Leftist mouthpiece The Wire went overboard with their reporting – they downplayed the murder as an ‘injury‘ and the focus of the report was on the bulldozer action on Khan’s home.

The headline read, “‘Is This Justice?’: Muslim Auto Driver’s House Bulldozed After Tenant’s Minor Son Injures Classmate“ while inside the article, it says, “The dispute between the minor accused (a Muslim) and the minor victim (a Hindu) – both students of class 10 – had turned communal after Hindu outfits staged massive protests.“

https://twitter.com/Messismm/status/1825813667469828170

This is an insult to the victim, his family, and the Hindu community. A young life was lost due to an unprovoked and violent attack. Yet, instead of calling out the mentality of the Islamist classmate, The Wire’s framing of this murder as a mere injury is a blatant attempt to diminish the severity of the crime, as if it were a minor altercation.

While the demolition of the house where the accused lived is undoubtedly a significant event, The Wire’s disproportionate focus on this aspect of the story seems like a deliberate attempt to divert attention from the core issue—the brutal murder of a teenage boy. Instead of prioritising the crime, The Wire has highlighted the demolition, framing it as an unjust act against the homeowner, Rashid Khan, who purchased the house in 2019. The article dedicates considerable space to detailing Khan’s financial losses and the hardships faced by tenants while the horrific nature of the murder is downplayed.

Furthermore, The Wire criticises the authorities for demolishing the house because it was illegally constructed on forest land, questioning why the demolition occurred only after the incident. However, the same article fails to hold the accused’s family accountable for their illegal occupation of the land, instead portraying them as victims of a draconian government action.

The Wire’s ‘Illustrious’ History Of Peddling False Narratives

The Wire, run by NRI Siddharth Varadarajan, has been indulging in peddling a certain anti-Hindu, anti-India narrative since its inception. Columnists at The Wire, like Ajai Shukla, published a fake report on US drone sales to India and linked it to Pannun’s “assassination conspiracy.”

In October 2022, The Wire released a controversial article claiming that ShareChat’s parent company Mohalla Tech Pvt. Ltd is involved with Tek Fog, and both were engaged in sharing news favourable to the BJP; ShareChat has released a statement asking the media house to take down the previously disputed articles. Earlier that month, on 10 October 2022, The Wire had published a story in which it alleged that BJP IT Cell Head Amit Malviya can get any social media post on Facebook or Instagram taken down because Meta had given him special privileges. Meta rubbished this allegation.

Siddharth Varadarajan’s wife, a US citizen named Nandini Sundar, who also works as a professor at Delhi University, blamed Israel for Hamas terrorist attack in October last year.

An ‘independent journalist’ made false claims about SBI electoral bonds earlier this year, and The Wire peddled the same propaganda.

The Wire’s columnists are of a separate type – they indulge in all kinds of uncivilised behaviour – Ravi Nair made derogatory comments about PM Modi.

One columnist named Natasha Narwal was booked for inciting the Delhi riots.

Arfa Khanum Sherwani repeatedly makes pro-Muslim (read anti-Hindu) comments and peddles Islamist propaganda through The Wire, ably aided by her boss Varadarajan – they downplayed the attacks against Bangladeshi Hindus. They claimed that they were ‘safe‘ and that the claims were ‘baseless and stupid’.

In such times, the media is responsible for reporting the truth, not manipulating it. As always, The Wire’s coverage of this incident falls woefully short of that standard.

Subscribe to our Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram channels and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

‘Don’t Distract Me’: Rahul Gandhi Refuses To Comment On Kolkata Doctor Rape And Murder, Sets A New Benchmark For Hypocrisy And Selective Political Maneuvering To Support INDI Ally Mamata

By
The Commune
-
Rahul Gandhi Refuses To Comment On Kolkata Doctor Rape And Murder

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi deflected a question about his stance on the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, terming the query a distraction. He rejected the question by focusing on his visit to RaeBareli, where he sought justice for a Dalit individual killed in Nasirabad.

His refusal to address the Kolkata incident reeks of hypocrisy to support INDI ally Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. This response has also raised concerns that he selectively engages with victims based on political convenience, particularly avoiding cases of crime against women in states governed by his allies.

Rahul Gandhi’s Comments On Kolkata Rape & Murder

On 20 August 2024, Gandhi deflected questions regarding his position on the rape-murder case of a doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. Instead, he highlighted his visit to his parliamentary constituency, RaeBareli, where he claimed to be seeking justice for a Dalit individual killed in Nasirabad. This move has further fueled allegations of selective political manoeuvring.

The Congress scion travelled to Uttar Pradesh to support the family of a Dalit individual who was killed, emphasising his role as Leader of the Opposition.

When Rahul Gandhi was pressed by reporters about why he hadn’t addressed the Kolkata doctor’s rape and murder case, Gandhi responded, “I have come here (Raebareli) to support the family of the victim (Dalit youth). I will not let you distract from this matter. I will speak on the Kolkata doctor rape and murder case later.” 

This response has raised severe concerns about Gandhi’s credibility. It suggests he may only engaget victims in opposition-ruled states while neglecting those in states governed by his allies. This selective approach appears to elevate his hypocrisy to a new level.

Here are a few instances where the Congress scion has shown solidarity with victims in states ruled by rival parties:

Prajwal Revanna Case 2024:

Prajwal Revanna, affiliated with the Janata Dal (Secular) party—an ally of the BJP in Karnataka—was embroiled in controversy ahead of the second phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, held on 26 April 2024. Revanna faced suspension from his party after videos surfaced showing non-consensual sexual acts involving him.

Politicising the issue, Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Shivamogga, labelling the situation not merely a sex scandal but “mass rape.” He accused BJP leaders of knowing about Revanna’s alleged crimes yet supporting him and forming alliances with JD(S). Gandhi claimed that Revanna had raped 400 women and recorded the assaults. He demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for campaigning on behalf of Revanna.

Gandhi, in a letter, urged Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to “extend all possible support to the victims” of the alleged sexual abuse case involving Janata Dal (Secular) MP Prajwal Revanna. He wanted to ensure that “all parties responsible for these heinous crimes are held accountable.”

In his letter, Gandhi expressed concern that women across India—from wrestlers in Haryana to sisters in Manipur—are suffering.

Manipur Issue 2023

When Manipur was engulfed in ethnic violence and two Kuki women were paraded naked and sexually assaulted in Churachandpur district, the Congress scion tweeted, “Prime Minister, the issue is not that it’s a shame for the country. The issue is the immense pain and trauma inflicted on the women of Manipur. Stop the violence immediately.” 

Bilkis Bano Convicts Released 2022

The BJP government in Gujarat released all 11 individuals convicted of raping Bilkis Bano and murdering seven of her family members during the 2002 Gujarat riots under their remission policy. Gandhi criticised their move.

“Those who raped a five-month-pregnant woman and killed her three-year-old daughter have been released during ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.’ What message are those who claim to champion ‘Nari Shakti’ sending to the women of our country? Prime Minister, the entire nation is witnessing the gap between your words and your actions,” Rahul Gandhi tweeted in Hindi.

Kathua & Unnao Rape Cases

In 2018, Gandhi and senior Congress leaders, including his mother, Sonia Gandhi, led a midnight candlelight vigil at India Gate in New Delhi. They were demanding justice for two girls, who were raped and murdered in Kathua (Jammu and Kashmir), and Unnao (Uttar Pradesh).

Gandhi’s sister, Priyanka, and her husband, Robert Vadra, were among hundreds of people who participated in the march, which was heavily secured.

Gandhi addressed reporters, stating, “We demand that the government take immediate action. Women and children are being raped and murdered everywhere. This is not a political issue but a national crisis that affects all women in the country. The government must address these atrocities.”

He also tweeted, “How can anyone defend the culprits of such horrific acts? The crime in #Kathua is a grave violation of humanity and must not go unpunished. What have we become if we let politics interfere with such unimaginable brutality against an innocent child?” Gandhi faced criticism on social media for his perceived delayed response, especially as some Congress leaders in Jammu seemed to support protests for those arrested in connection with the case.

Gandhi and his sister Priyanka visited Hathras in solidarity with the victim.

It seems that Rahul Gandhi won’t acknowledge the suffering and rights of victims. Instead, he seems to be cherry-picking states where the government must be held responsible for women’s safety. It is apparent from his selective approach, including his recent dismissive response to reporters regarding the Kolkata rape and murder.

By saying, “Don’t distract me,” Gandhi seems eager to safeguard his political prospects. After all, the state where the rape and murder occurred is governed by his ally Mamata Banerjee-led TMC. He appears to prioritise political strategy over genuine concern for the victims’ plight, right to safety, and justice.

Subscribe to our Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram channels and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Pa. Ranjith Takes Jibes At Mani Ratnam At Mari Selvaraj’s Vaazhai Film Trailer Launch Event, Also Targets Venkat Prabhu?

By
The Commune
-

Director Pa Ranjith is once again in the spotlight due to a new controversy from a recently concluded trailer launch event held on 19 August 2024. Ranjith stirred up a storm by making sly jibes at directors Mani Ratnam and Venkat Prabhu with whom he worked as an assistant director. He didn’t stop there, continuing with an appeal for greater emphasis on Dalit politics in cinema, arguing that such discussions are lacking and should be prioritised without much effort from him.

The speech received criticism on social media, as Ranjith appeared more focused on lamenting Mari Selvaraj’s successes.

Mari Selvaraj, acclaimed for his films “Pariyerum Perumal” and “Karnan,” is preparing to release his new movie, “Vaazhai.” The film is set in his childhood and captures Selvaraj’s moments of joy and sorrow. It features a Santhosh Narayanan soundtrack and Theni Eswar cinematography.”Vaazhai” stars Ponvel, Raghul, Kalaiyarasan, Nikhila Vimal, and Dhivya Duraisamy.

At the event, Pa Ranjith remarked that during his initial days as Assistant Director he never got the “space” to discuss his politics and the kind of films he wanted to make. “If I had worked with a director like Ram, I think I could have conveyed my politics more effortlessly in my first film. I am happy you (Ram) created that for Mari Selvaraj and others.” , he said.

This comment was seen as a sly jibe at his mentor Venkat Prabhu, with whom he worked as assistant director.

Then, Pa Ranjith revealed that his initial interaction with Mari Selvaraj arose from Selvaraj’s concerns over a namesake portrayal of his character in ‘ Madras’. This encounter led to Ranjith discovering Selvaraj’s work. He then highlighted how “Pariyerum Perumal” underscored the need for open discussion and the importance of sharing such stories with the public.

Ranjith criticised certain audience members and movie critics, accusing them of trolling films rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue. Ranjith said, “Over the past ten to twelve years, we have been discussing and fighting it, but have we received justice for that? Has everyone accepted it as valid, or are they dismissing it and questioning why we are making these films in cinema?  Is that needed? Whenever they get a chance, some audience and cinema critics seize the opportunity to troll us. Our films are praised in the same breath that they are subjected to slur trolling. But do you think we are afraid of this? No, we have faced many challenges since childhood.”

Then he continued and said, “I don’t have courage like Mari Selvaraj; he dares to make films about his pain, but I could not.” He mentioned that he didn’t want to focus solely on his community’s pain. For instance, he was moved to tears when he recreated a personal experience in “Attakathi”. In contrast, Mari Selvaraj chose a harrowing subject for his debut film. Ranjith even questioned Mari about his readiness for the public’s reaction. However, he realised that Mari’s bravery lies in his storytelling. Mari remains calm, composed, and adept at ensuring his conversations are commercially successful. Ranjith is impressed by Mari’s dedication.

As Ranjith praised Mari’s growing conviction and the evolution of his cinematic language with each film, he began to weave in his political views. He criticised certain audience members who struggle to accept the portrayal of Dalit experiences and the retribution it represents.

Ranjith said, “Another criticism is levelled at Mari, the crowd applauding as he shows the pain in his films, but when he shows his characters fighting back, like in Karnan, they say he glorifies violence. Is it not worse? What should I do? What should I do? Will you teach me continuously? Will you school me continuously to speak, stand, go that way and show us like this? I’m not understanding it.” He urged dissenters to reflect on their attitudes and question the status quo. “Why aren’t you curious why he feels compelled to speak out? Why do those in privileged positions expect to be challenged only in the most refined manner? You’re comfortable watching films that question you as long as they do so subtly and maintain your sense of goodwill. Why should we cater to your comfort zone?”

In closing, Ranjith praised Mari Selvaraj, highlighting his decision to screen “Vaazhai” to leading filmmakers, indirectly quoting prominent figures like Mani Ratnam and documenting their responses. He lamented that Mani Ratnam, after watching his film, did not contact him to criticise or praise him, but Selvaraj cleverly made Mani Ratnam watch and record his observation.

Taking jibes at Mani Ratnam, Ranjith remarked, “A filmmaker I greatly admire has not acknowledged watching my film for a long time. Although he watched it, he hasn’t mentioned it that “he has watched the movie”. I’m aware of this as people who watched with him said to me. However, he (Mari) made him to watch the film and even recorded a video about it, which I find quite impressive.”

Subscribe to our Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram channels and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Modi Govt Asks UPSC To Withdraw Lateral Entry Notification, 2nd U-Turn After Rollback Of Indexation Removal For Properties

By
The Commune
-

The central government directed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to withdraw its recent notification inviting applications for lateral entry into the bureaucracy on 20 August 2024. The decision came just three days after the UPSC announced 45 vacancies for joint secretary and director-level positions in various ministries, with an application deadline for 17 September 2024.

The advertisement, which sought “talented and motivated Indian nationals for Lateral Recruitment,” faced strong opposition from several political parties, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

Resistance also came from within the ruling coalition, with BJP allies like Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) voicing their disapproval.

In contrast, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supported the move, arguing that lateral entry could improve the quality of governance.

Lateral Entry Details

The lateral entry initiative aimed to fill 10 joint secretary positions, including roles such as Joint Secretary for Digital Economy, FinTech, Cyber Security, and Investment in the Ministry of Finance, and Joint Secretary (Policy and Plan) for the National Disaster Management Authority under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Opposition leaders criticised the policy for not including reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) candidates, calling it unconstitutional. The controversy surrounding the exclusion of reservations and the political pushback ultimately led to the government’s decision to retract the UPSC advertisement.

Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, wrote on his official X handle, “Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji has always firmly believed in social justice. His programmes have advanced the welfare of the weakest sections of our society. The decision to align lateral entry with principles of reservation shows PM Shri @narendramodi Ji’s commitment to social justice.”

Following backlash against the removal of indexation benefits on long-term capital gains (LTCG), the Modi government offered taxpayers the option to pay a 20% LTCG tax with indexation benefits on the sale of property acquired before July 23, 2024.

Indexation adjusts the original purchase price of an asset to account for inflation, allowing taxpayers to reduce their capital gains tax burden by reflecting a more accurate cost of acquisition over time. Without indexation, long-held assets may show inflated gains that don’t accurately represent true profit, leading to higher tax liabilities. The recent amendments to the Budget have been viewed as a significant rollback of the earlier LTCG-related proposals, especially for the real estate sector. The government initially justified the removal of indexation benefits by offering a lower LTCG tax rate of 12.5 percent, but backlash from various stakeholders led to the reintroduction of indexation for properties purchased before July 23, 2024.

Under the amendments, taxpayers can now choose between the old regime, with a 20 percent LTCG tax and indexation, or the new regime, with a 12.5 percent tax without indexation, for property bought before the specified date. However, for properties acquired after July 23, 2024, the new regime will apply exclusively.

(With inputs from Swarajyamag)

This is the second

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally. 

“People from MH, AP Celebrate Me Because of My Politics,” Director Pa Ranjith Blows His Own Trumpet

By
The Commune
-
Pa Ranjith claims Thangalaan sparked debates.

Even though Thangalaan severely underperformed at the box office, director Pa Ranjith asserted that it had sparked important debates and claimed widespread support for his work and political ideas in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. However, his statements were met with ridicule online. Many netizens questioned whether his comments reflected deep self-promotion rather than genuine public sentiment.

The director also claimed that his film received “love and support” from people in Maharashtra and Delhi, where it has yet to be released. He has been in the spotlight recently, drawing attention to his controversial statements following the death of Tamil Nadu BSP leader Armstrong and the latest debacle, Thangalaan.

Thangalaan Failed At Box Office

The film, which failed to meet expectations at the box office, has sparked debates and criticism, with many questioning Ranjith’s motives and his penchant for making statements designed to keep him in the limelight.

At a recent event in Chennai, marking the “thanksgiving” for the “success” of the film Thangalaan, Pa Ranjith once again made headlines with his remarks.

Ranjith expressed his satisfaction with the film’s reception. He said, “The film has created an important debate in the Tamil community. It is common to convey a new experience to people in an unfamiliar language. Thanks to people who understand Thangalaan properly and celebrate it. Many people have worked with me in this success.”

Ranjith emphasised the significance of hard work in filmmaking, stating, “People don’t have to accept a film just because of hard work. A film requires labour. If I am standing here, I believe it is because of my hard work. Your love is what keeps me moving to the next level. Sometimes, we will be met with vehemence. But if we continue answering it, we will be finished/decimated. That is what this monster (vehemence) also wants.”

“Northern States Love Me”

The director also expressed his ‘surprise‘ at the level of support he has received, saying, “I don’t understand why a creator (like me) should be given so much love and support. This is not only in Tamil Nadu but also in Andhra Pradesh and everywhere else where the film was released. Even in northern states where the film has yet to be released, like Maharashtra and Delhi, I receive support everywhere. It is my opinion that is reflected in it. They love my ‘art‘, my thoughts. Thangalaan has given us the enthusiasm that we have no worries when lakhs of people understand it correctly.”

Netizens Rebuke Pa Ranjith’s Self-Promotion

However, Ranjith’s claims that people from Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh celebrate him and his work because of his political stance have drawn ridicule from netizens. Many have taken to social media to question the director’s assumptions, with some suggesting that his statements are more about self-promotion than a genuine reflection of public sentiment. Here are some reactions:

One netizen wrote, “The truth is that many people in Tamil Nadu do not know what kind of politics you are talking about as they celebrate you only as a director.”

Another wrote, “This way, he has celebrated himself“

Another wrote, “A very broad-minded person who thinks of even negative criticism as a celebration“

Yet another netizen wrote, “Who told you? No one told me, so I told this to myself – Pa Ranjith“

(With inputs from Hindu Tamil)

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally. 

Hindu Munnani Slams DMK Govt Over Allegedly Banning Traditional Drumming During Lord Murugan’s Procession In Tiruparankundram

By
The Commune
-

The Hindu Munnani has criticized the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowment Department (HR&CE) department under the DMK government for banning the traditional drumming and beats known as “Kottu Mellam” during the procession of Lord Murugan at the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple in Tiruparankundram, Madurai.

Lord Murugan is depicted in his marriage adornments at the Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Tiruparankundram, which is one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, both local and international, who come to seek blessings, especially on auspicious marriage and full moon days. It remains a major pilgrimage and tourist destination in the Madurai district.

In response to HR&CE decision, Hindu Munnani issued a statement via social media platform X, asserting, “The Dravidian model government must cease its unwarranted interference in, and disruption of Tamil worship practices rooted in our cultural and traditional heritage. Hinduism has long embraced the practice of singing praises and celebrating through various musical instruments, including drums. Lord Shiva holds a conch, Lord Krishna wields a flute, Lord Nandi carries a mridangam, and Narada plays the veena.

It is deeply objectionable to halt the festival processions of devotees who revere Hindu deities. In Hindu society, where it is legally acceptable to use drums for festivals, weddings, and funerals, such prohibitions are a disregard for the law. The Hindu Munnani strongly denounces the DMK’s Dravidian model government in Tamil Nadu for its deliberate suppression of Hindu practices and temple festivals, which appears to be an attempt to placate minority groups for electoral gain.”

Hindu Munnani also released a video purportedly showing the procession without the presence of any traditional musical instruments, used as evidence to confirm the absence of these traditional drumming elements during the event.

In January 2024, during Pongal and Thaipoosam celebrations, devotees encountered same difficulties when the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowment Department (HR&CE) of Palani allegedly prohibited traditional drumming and beats, which are central to the worship and festivities. Reports indicate that Assistant Commissioner Lakshmi of the HR&CE department stated that drumming is not allowed at the Arulmigu Dandayuthapani Swami Temple on the Palani hills.

A widely shared video on Twitter featured a devotee expressing frustration, saying, “For the past five days, I’ve been on a sacred journey (Paadha yathirai), providing food along the paths from Thogai malai, Karur. Every year, we climb the Palani hills with drums and beats, but this year, the Assistant Commissioner is stopping us, which is causing distress. I don’t understand why the drums and beats are being prohibited. Please help us resolve this issue.”

Another devotee shared, “This tradition has been a part of my life for 42 years. At 56 years old, I have been coming here every January since I was 19. After worshiping at Thiru Avinankudi Temple, we perform a ritual walk around the hills and then ascend with drums and beats to worship Palani Andavar. We have been fasting for 48 days in preparation for this spiritual journey. Please assist us; our spiritual hearts are troubled. Your intervention would bring joy and fulfillment as we look forward to experiencing the divine presence of Palani Andavar. Please take the necessary steps to allow us to celebrate with drums and beats.”

In reaction to the HR&CE’s decision, Hindu Munnani announced plans to organize a significant demonstration to protest the restriction, highlighting the potential impact on the livelihoods of many families and devotees involved in the celebrations.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Rising Anti-Hindu Violence In Bangladesh Post-Coup: Leaked Telegram Messages Reveal Islamist Agenda

By
The Commune
-
Leaked Telegram Messages Reveal Islamist Agenda Against Bangladeshi Hindus.

Leaked Telegram messages from private Jamaat-e-Islami and opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)  groups reveal a disturbing campaign to marginalise and expel Hindus from Bangladesh following the August 5 coup. These messages outline a strategy to remove Hindu officials, frame their persecution as a political conspiracy, and exacerbate violence against the community. The reports also highlight the troubling role of extremist groups in providing security to police officers.

Leaked Telegram Messages

In the aftermath of the recent coup in Bangladesh that led to the ousting of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a surge of violence has been unleashed against the country’s minority Hindu population. Both ordinary Hindus and those in positions of power have become targets of brutal attacks by Islamist factions, with reports suggesting a coordinated effort to marginalise and expel Hindus from Bangladesh.

Leaked messages from private Telegram groups, particularly those associated with the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, have surfaced, revealing a disturbing agenda aimed at systematically weakening and eliminating the Hindu community from the country.

One of the messages, allegedly circulated within a pro-Jamaat group and forwarded from a private BNP channel, outlined a chilling strategy: “If we want to create a Bangladesh free from Hindus, we must first force all the major Hindu government officials to resign and ensure that Muslims are recruited instead. This will weaken the resolve of ordinary Hindus, and they will be forced to leave for India. We have started our work; if you know any such Hindu public servants, then please help us by providing information.”

This revelation highlights a coordinated attempt to purge Hindus from influential positions within the government, thereby destabilizing the community and compelling them to flee the country.

On 11 August 2024, a message shared in a private BNP Telegram group and later forwarded to a Jamaat-e-Islami public channel called for Hindus to be “taught a lesson so they never find the courage to protest again.” The message further suggested framing the persecution of Hindus as a political conspiracy orchestrated by the Awami League. The strategy also included plans to infiltrate Hindu protests with individuals carrying Awami League flags to discredit their cause and further exacerbate their plight.

The messages also expose a celebratory tone among BNP members regarding the lynching of Hindus. One particular message, initially shared in a private BNP Telegram channel and then forwarded to a Jamaat-e-Islami public channel, demonstrated how certain factions within the BNP were openly rejoicing at the brutal violence against Hindus.

https://twitter.com/UnSubtleDesi/status/1822673050552467799

These leaked communications underscore the growing threat to the Hindu community in Bangladesh, as extremist groups exploit the political turmoil following the coup to intensify their campaign against religious minorities.

How Law Enforcement Agencies In Bangladesh Submitted Themselves To BNP & Jamaat

After attacking and killing police officers under the guise of ‘anti-government protests,‘ Islamists began assuming the role of ‘protectors’ for these same officers.

According to a report by ‘Jugantar,‘ members of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami were seen providing security to police stationed at Begumganj Chowki in Noakhali, as confirmed by BNP leaders Mohammed Ahsanullah and Morshdul Amin Faisal.

Following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on 5 August 2024, extremists launched an attack on the Begumganj police station. In response, Jamaat and BNP took it upon themselves to safeguard the officers there.

Religious minorities, terrorised by these Islamist groups, found themselves unable to seek police assistance, as the police were relying on these extremists for their own protection. Compounding the issue, 2,200 BNP and Jamaat members, previously arrested for causing chaos during ‘anti-quota protests,’ were released on bail.

The leaked messages have further fueled fears of an organized campaign to drive out Hindus, exacerbating an already dire situation for religious minorities in Bangladesh. It remains to be seen whether the interim government will take action to protect the Hindu minorities in Bangladesh- will Prof. Yunus address this on an urgent basis?

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally. 

2 Terror Suspects Chargesheeted By NIA In Al-Hind ISIS Module Probe, Linked To Rameshwaram Cafe Blast & SSI Wilson Murder

By
The Commune
-
2 Terror Suspects Chargesheeted By NIA In Al-Hind ISIS Module Probe

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has submitted a supplementary chargesheet in the Karnataka case involving the “Al-Hind ISIS module,” which is reportedly part of a broader international terrorist conspiracy.

In a statement released today, the NIA revealed that two additional individuals have been charged in connection with a plot involving targeted killings and other terrorist activities.

The newly charged suspects, Abdul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, both from Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district, had been evading capture until their arrest following a bomb blast at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru on 1 March 2024 which injured nine people. Taha and Shazib were apprehended in West Bengal on 12 April 2024 concerning the cafe explosion. Authorities believe Shazib planted the bomb and Taha was a key conspirator. Both individuals face charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the Al-Hind ISIS module case. To date, 18 people have been charged in this investigation, which the NIA took over from Bengaluru City police on 23 January 2020.

The NIA’s investigation has revealed that Taha, a radical himself, recruited Shazib and others. In 2018, Taha was introduced to an online handler, Bhai or Laptop Bhai, who was later introduced to Mehaboob Pasha. Pasha established the Al-Hind Trust in Bengaluru with his family. The NIA found that Pasha provided an online handler link to Khaja Mohideen, who, along with his associates, purportedly joined the Al-Hind Trust to advance ISIS activities in India.

Additionally, the NIA discovered that Taha and Shazib had sheltered Thowfeek and Abdul Shameem, who allegedly used a pistol supplied by Pasha to murder Wilson, a special sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu police, at the Kaliyakkavilai checkpoint on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The investigation is ongoing.

Who Was SSI Wilson?

Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) Wilson, who was tragically murdered on 8 January 2020, was a police officer stationed at the Kaliyakavilai police station in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. He was on duty at a checkpoint on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border when he was shot and stabbed by individuals linked to extremist groups.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged seven suspects with this case. They are Abdul Shamim (30), Taufiq (27), Khaja Moideen (53), Mehboob Pasha (48), Ijaz Pasha (46), Zafar Ali (26), and Sikkabuddin (36). The case, initially handled by the state police, was later taken over by the NIA. The suspects were moved from various prisons to appear before Judge Ilavalagan, after which they were returned to their respective facilities under strict security.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally. 

1...939940941...1,967Page 940 of 1,967
TheCommune
The Commune is a news and views portal focusing on social and political issues of the southern part of India with a focus on Tamil Nadu.
Contact us: thecommune.news@gmail.com
Facebook Instagram X Youtube

NATIONAL NEWS

Pakistan Links, Anti-India Campaigns And Soros-Affiliated Funding: How Workplace Harassment-Accused 'The Polis Project' Operated Under Suchitra Vijayan

Pakistan Links, Anti-India Campaigns And Soros-Affiliated Funding: How Workplace Harassment-Accused ‘The...

The Commune - 0
Suchitra Vijayan, co-founder of the George Soros-backed Polis Project, now stands exposed by her own former employees of workplace harassment, arbitrary sackings, and running...
© The Commune 2025. All Rights Reserved.