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TMC Goes The Dravidian Model Way As Kolkata Police Intimidate Netizens Speaking Out On RG Kar Medical College Rape And Murder Case

By
The Commune
-
TMC Goes The Dravidian Model Way As Kolkata Police Intimidate Netizens

The TMC government in West Bengal appears to be taking a page out of the DMK’s playbook by cracking down on dissent online. Similar to the Dravidian party’s tactics in Tamil Nadu, the West Bengal government uses their policemen to intimidate netizens who have spoken out against the horrific rape and murder of a medical student in Kolkata.

People living in Tamil Nadu know how TN police intimidate netizens for making critical comments about the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government or posting memes that espouse the same criticism. Read here for more on the cases filed in TN and elsewhere.

TMC-ruled West Bengal seems to be following the Dravidian Model of using their police force to intimidate its criticizing netizens in the wake of a horrific crime committed in the city. Kolkata Police was found intimidating netizens for speaking out on the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case.

Instances

A netizen named Debayan Sen claimed to reveal a cover-up involving a horrific incident at RG Kar Medical College in West Bengal, linked to a larger illegal organ trafficking, medicine smuggling, and sex and drug racket allegedly supported by political figures from the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Debayan alleged that the victim discovered the illegality involving some hospital staff, an intern, and hospital authorities, including the principal. After the victim allegedly threatened to expose the operation, she was harassed for two months, leading to her eventual death, which was initially labelled as a suicide by the hospital principal.

Sen also alleged that the proceeds from these illegal activities were linked to TMC leaders, implicating high-level involvement. Sanjoy Roy is described as a scapegoat, with the real culprits allegedly being Arshean Alam, Shahbaz Khan, Golam Azam, and Subhadip Sinha Mahapatra, the son of TMC leader Soumen Mahapatra, who is reportedly now in hiding. Sen also accused the principal, police, and state government of orchestrating a cover-up, attempting to destroy evidence, and dismissing the case as a suicide.

He also stated that during the peaceful protest on 14 August 2024, TMC-hired goons allegedly infiltrated the crowd, vandalized the college to destroy evidence, and were allegedly aided by police. Tear gas was used against the peaceful protesters, and an internet blackout was imposed to allegedly suppress information about the incident.

https://twitter.com/DebayanSen_/status/1823878847718187015

Following this, Debayan received a notice u/s 168 BNSS from the Cyber Police of Kolkata for reporting on the Kolkata horror.

Another netizen with the handle “purpleready” recounted the troubling experience when police officers visited her parents’ home to intimidate her over a social media post she made about a student from Burdwan University. The police, acting on instructions from the Kolkata police, searched for her, causing distress to her family.

When they arrived, her brother contacted her, and the police questioned her about the post, asking if she had verified its credibility. She admitted to sharing the post based on initial reports and editing it after verification. The police requested that she delete the post and warned her against sharing unverified information in the future, threatening potential harm to her career. The incident left her family, particularly her mother and brother, deeply upset and ashamed, especially since the neighbours were aware of the police inquiry. She later deleted the post as requested by the police.

https://twitter.com/epicnephrin_e/status/1824318388887277922

WB Police Intimidate Shefali Vaidya

In an X post, Temple activist and influencer Shefali Vaidya posed questions about the TMC government’s lack of action in ensuring speedy justice, for which the Kolkata Police have threatened to take down the post.

She shared on X an image card which alleged that the sons of two TMC ministers were the suspects in the rape and murder case. She asked if the information was true while questioning if the police under the Mamata government were hurriedly trying to portray the incident as a suicide by destroying evidence.

“You are hereby directed to delete the above-mentioned post and also refrain from making such acts failing which you will be liable for strict penal action under the relevant provision of law.“, the notice by Kolkata Police read.

Following this, Shefali Vaidya took to her social media, fearing threats of harassment and attempts to muzzle her voice.

“So I got this threatening letter from Kolkata Police for merely asking a few questions and for exercising my right of free speech. This is a clear case of @mamataofficial administration silencing the voice of private citizens using the power of Kolkata Police.”, she said.

Shefali pointed out that she was just a private citizen disgusted by the incident, not a politician.

“As a woman and mother, I fear for my safety. We all know what the Kolkata Police can do, and we all know what happens to women who dare to speak against @mamataofficial in West Bengal. They are either subjected to violence or intimidation like the #SandeshkhaliHorror victims or forced to leave the state like @UnSubtleDesi [OpIndia Editor Nupur Sharma].“, Shefali said.

“I am just an ordinary citizen trying to do the right thing. I am not a member of any political party, nor do I have an organisation to back me up. And I don’t have the wherewithal or the energy to fight the intimidation tactics of a state administration where the police act like the collection agents of a regime. So yes, I will delete the post as Kolkata Police asked me to do as advised by my lawyer. I am doing so not because I think I was wrong in asking questions, but after what happened to #moumitadebnath, I fear for my safety and my life. You won Kolkata Police in silencing the voice of a common citizen. Congratulations. Huge achievement. Now, if only you guys showed the same zeal in protecting the women of West Bengal, #moumitadebnath would STILL BE ALIVE!” she said.

Shefali Vaidya also pointed out that she had said nothing wrong apart from what other institutions have asked, which is available in the public domain.

After making a (now deleted) post on X on the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case, a netizen with the handle “Lady Khabri” also received a notice from Kolkata Police.

Another netizen with the handle name “Janu” posted a video detailing the horrific incident.

https://twitter.com/real_janhavi/status/1823704244014473373

As expected, Kolkata Cyber Police issued a notice against her.

A netizen named Sunanda Roy also faced the same after her video on the details of the rape and murder case was shared widely.

TN Police seems to have found a buddy to intimidate and censor netizens’ voices critical of the ruling government or speaking the truth.

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“Ram & Vam Vandalized RG Kar Medical College”, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Accuses Left & BJP Of Collusion To Create Unrest

By
The Commune
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Mamata Banerjee Accuses Left & BJP for unrest afater doctor's rape-muder

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Left and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of collaborating to create unrest in the state following the brutal rape and murder of a young doctor at RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata.

“Left and Ram want to create unrest in Bengal, and they both have come together to do this,” Banerjee stated, referring to the unrest and vandalism caused by a mob at the hospital on 14 August 2024.

The Chief Minister alleged that those responsible for the vandalism were not college students.

“The people who vandalized RG Kar Hospital yesterday are not connected to the student movement… they are BJP people,” Banerjee asserted, pointing to videos showing individuals holding national flags and others with red and white flags associated with the communist Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI).

The incident at the hospital involved a mob entering the campus and damaging the protest site, vehicles, and public property. Security officials had to intervene to disperse the crowd.

Banerjee, also the chief of the ruling Trinamool Congress, commended the police for their restraint during a recent incident at RG Kar Hospital, where officers, including a Deputy Commissioner and two Officer-in-Charges, were attacked.

She noted that the officers were found unconscious with injuries and were promptly hospitalized. She said, “Yesterday, police were attacked; among them was one Deputy Commissioner (DC) who was there for security purposes, and two Officer-in-charges (OCs). For one hour, they couldn’t be found, and when they were found, they were unconscious and were seen blood oozing out from their heads. I informed the police at 3 am and had them taken to Apollo Hospital… I would like to congratulate them on not losing patience; they did not hurt anyone.”

Banerjee also remarked that the investigation into the case is now under the jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and anyone with relevant information should direct it to them.

Addressing the RK Kar rape and murder case, Banerjee called for the death penalty for the accused, stressing that such severe punishment is necessary to serve as a deterrent while also cautioning against punishing the innocent.

The case has sparked nationwide protests, particularly within the medical community, following the discovery of a post-graduate trainee doctor’s body in RG Kar Medical College on 9 August 2024. The victim’s family has alleged rape and murder.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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Hindu Munnani Alleges Terror Plot Against Leader, Criticizes TN Govt & Police Response

By
The Commune
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"Is Tamil Nadu Turning Into A Taliban State?" Hindu Munnani Slams DMK govt

J.A. Kishore Kumar, the State General Secretary of Hindu Munnani, issued a press release on 16 August 2024, cautioning the Tamil Nadu government to address a purported terror conspiracy against Hindu Munnani chief Kadeswara Subramaniam. Kumar warned that if the state fails to tackle the rise of Islamic terrorism effectively, it could face serious repercussions.

The press release detailed an incident involving a letter received by the Bharatiya Janata Party office in Palani, Dindigul District. The letter alleged that terrorist training was being conducted in the Palani area by Syed Ali Farooq of the SDPI, who was reportedly training ten members of the banned PFI. The letter also claimed that there were plans to assassinate Kadeswara Subramaniam.

Hindu Munnani asserted that the letter confirmed this terror plot against Subramaniam. However, they criticized the police for allegedly mishandling the investigation. They claimed that the authorities had downplayed the letter’s significance, suggesting it was merely a revenge-driven falsehood, and had failed to investigate the individuals named in the letter.

The group condemned the police for covering up the incident and accused them of enabling the growth of Islamic terrorism through their inaction. They pointed out that Tamil Nadu has witnessed a significant number of terrorist activities, highlighting a pattern of police negligence that emboldens extremists.

DMK-led Tamil Nadu government was also criticized for not recognizing how Islamic fundamentalist threats are impacting industrial development in the state. Hindu Munnani emphasized the need for proper investigation and expressed concern that failure to address the issue could lead to a resurgence of terrorism.

In response, the Hindu Munnani has contacted Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the Central Bureau of Investigation to take over the case. They have called for increased intelligence monitoring of the SDPI and associated individuals to prevent the spread of Islamic terrorism in Tamil Nadu.

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TNM Gives A Perfect 5/5 For Pa. Ranjith’s Thangalaan Despite Film’s Lukewarm Response, Netizens Question TNM’s Credibility And Neutrality

By
The Commune
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TNM Gives A Perfect 5/5 For Pa. Ranjith's Thangalaan

Tamil film director Pa Ranjith’s film Thangalaan, starring Vikram, was released on 15 August 2024. The film, released amid heightened expectations, was a damp squib for movie watchers. However, Dravidianist and leftist mouthpiece TNM gave it a perfect 5/5 for the movie in their review.

What Is The Film About?

Thangalaan is a historical drama set in the 1800s during British rule in the Kolar region known for its gold deposits. The story revolves around Clement, a British officer eager to exploit the ancient gold mines of Tipu Sultan in Kolar, Karnataka. To achieve this, he seeks labour from a tribal village in Veppur, North Arcot, known for its mining skills. He promises to share the wealth with them, aiming to lift them out of poverty. Thangalaan, a tribal leader played by Vikram, agrees to the offer, driven by a desire for self-respect and a better life for his people, who have long been oppressed.

However, the tribals fear Aarathi, a mystical guardian believed to protect the gold. Thangalaan has encountered Aarathi’s fierce power before but believes things will be different this time. The group, led by Thangalaan and accompanied by Clement, embarks on a journey to Kolar to seek gold, facing challenges along the way. The film explores whether they find the gold, if the legend of Aarathi is true, and whether Clement genuinely helps the tribals improve their lives.

What Went Wrong With The Film?

The film was loaded with expectations since it was a Vikram-Pa.Ranjith combination. However, the film fell flat on its face, with a few positives as its saving grace. 

Vikram delivers a powerful and transformative performance, creating a memorable presence despite potential shortcomings in the screenplay or editing.

The film attempts a daring and experimental form, similar to Pa. Ranjith’s previous works. It focuses on visuals and minimal backstory to establish the film’s world.

Certain scenes, such as Thangalaan’s transformation when aligning with Clement, are visually impactful and symbolic.

Let’s take a look at the negatives:

The film’s structure, which seems to mimic a hallucination, creates a disjointed and chaotic narrative that confuses the audience.

Despite dealing with heavy themes like oppression and betrayal, the film failed to evoke a strong emotional response, feeling generic and surface-level. Apart from Thangalaan, other characters, including those played by Parvathy Thiruvothu and Malavika Mohanan, are underdeveloped, and their actions sometimes lack sense. The film lacks sufficient setup and character moments, making it difficult to feel emotionally invested when something bad happens to a family member.

Several key arcs, such as Pasupathy’s journey, Thangalaan’s relationship with his people, and Hari’s dynamic with his wife, are underdeveloped and have no clear beginning, middle, or end.

The big action set pieces where VFX makes an entry involving panthers and snakes do not work effectively, diminishing their intended impact. Despite the big budget, the visuals, score, and action set pieces fail to deliver the expected cinematic impact. The film’s cinematography fails to delve into the characters’ psyches, with an overreliance on wide shots and a lack of memorable frames. The direction lacks strong staging of set-piece moments, and the editing feels rushed, leading to a frustrating viewing experience.

The geography and positioning of characters in many sequences are unclear, leading to confusion about what is happening in certain scenes.

Some crucial dialogues are difficult to understand due to a problematic sound mix, which affects the plot’s overall understanding.

The film’s screenplay lacks coherence and depth, leading to a less emotionally impactful narrative. Overall, the film attempts an ambitious blend of adventure and drama but struggles to bring its various elements together satisfactorily.

https://twitter.com/__NameNo__/status/1823940524375728408

 

TNM’s Hypocrisy

Despite these flaws, the News Minute, a Dravidianist-Leftist mouthpiece, rated the film 5/5. Pa. Ranjith’s films often receive such ratings from TNM, regardless of their merits or flaws.

The same TNM reviewed Maharaja and gave it a 3.5/5. The film reflected a male perspective, which is unsurprising given its male creator. Portals like TNM remain silent about similar issues in their preferred directors’ works. Take Attakathi, for example. Such inconsistent criticism lacks substance and seems aimed merely at sounding contrarian.

Pa Ranjith’s ‘Natchathiram Nagargirathu’ was also given high ratings even when unpalatable to his followers. It seems one cannot criticise Pa Ranjith without getting cancelled.

The film seems to present a skewed historical perspective, portraying British colonizers in an overly positive light, almost like saints. In a scene, the Britisher makes a kind statement in English. But a Brahmin interpreter deliberately mistranslates it to “serve his interests”. Thus, the film successfully portrays the Brahmin as the primary antagonist.

However, this portrayal overlooks significant historical realities, such as the Criminal Tribes Act by the British. This Act criminalized large segments of lower-caste populations. However, the reviewer conveniently omitted it and didn’t raise a question on the inaccuracy.

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Kolkata Police Threatens Columnist Shefali Vaidya For Speaking About Rape & Murder Of RG Kar College Doctor

By
The Commune
-
Kolkata Police Threatens Columnist Shefali Vaidya

The Kolkata Police served notice to author Shefali Vaidya for her criticism of the TMC government‘s response to the horrific rape and murder of a doctor from the city’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. They have been going on a threatening spree against people who are vocal about the tragedy.

Shefali Vaidya, in an X post, had posed questions about the TMC government’s lack of action in ensuring speedy justice, for which the Kolkata Police have threatened to take down the post.

In her X post, she shared an image card which alleged that the sons of two TMC ministers were the suspects in the rape and murder case. She asked if the information was true while questioning if the police under the Mamata government were hurriedly trying to portray the incident as a suicide by destroying evidence.

“You are hereby directed to delete the above-mentioned post and also refrain from making such acts failing which you will be liable for strict penal action under the relevant provision of law.“, the notice by Kolkata Police read.

Following this, Shefali Vaidya took to her social media, fearing threats of harassment and attempts to muzzle her voice.

“So I got this threatening letter from Kolkata Police for merely asking a few questions and for exercising my right of free speech. This is a clear case of @mamataofficial administration silencing the voice of private citizens using the power of Kolkata Police.”, she said.

Shefali pointed out that she was just a private citizen who was disgusted by what happened to a woman doctor and was not a member of any political party.

“As a woman and mother, I fear for my safety. We all know what the Kolkata Police can do, and we all know what happens to women who dare to speak against @mamataofficial in West Bengal. They are either subjected to violence or intimidation like the #SandeshkhaliHorror victims or forced to leave the state like @UnSubtleDesi [OpIndia Editor Nupur Sharma].“, Shefali said.

“I am just an ordinary citizen trying to do the right thing. I am not a member of any political party, nor do I have an organisation to back me up. And I don’t have the wherewithal or the energy to fight the intimidation tactics of a state administration where the police act like the collection agents of a regime. So yes, I will delete the post as Kolkata Police asked me to do as advised by my lawyer. I am doing so not because I think I was wrong in asking questions, but after what happened to #moumitadebnath, I fear for my safety and for my life. You won Kolkata Police in silencing the voice of a common citizen. Congratulations. Huge achievement. Now if only you guys showed the same zeal in protecting the women of West Bengal, #moumitadebnath would STILL BE ALIVE!”, she said.

Shefali Vaidya also pointed out that she had said nothing wrong apart from what other institutions have asked, which is available in the public domain.

Referring to the proceedings in the Calcutta High Court, during which it was pointed out that Commissioner of Kolkata Police Vineet Kumar Goyal, when he was Inspector General of CID, was the investigating officer of the Kamduni rape and murder case, which ended up shoddily.

Shefali Vaidya also asked if the staff of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital would be threatened and arrested by Kolkata Police for exposing administrative apathy and alleged attempts to cover up the case.

Background

A tragic event unfolded at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College, where a second-year postgraduate trainee doctor was found brutally raped and murdered. The incident, which occurred on August 8, has sparked nationwide outrage, with medical professionals in Kolkata protesting the lack of safety in their work environment.

After having dinner with her juniors, the trainee doctor chose to rest in the seminar hall at around 2 am due to the hospital’s insufficient resting facilities, believing it to be a safe space. However, on the morning of August 9, her partially unclothed body was discovered in the seminar hall after her night shift.

The victim’s father raised serious concerns, pointing to signs of rape and accusing the hospital of delaying the investigation. In response, postgraduate doctors ceased work in all departments except for emergency services, demanding immediate action and the arrest of those responsible. Student groups also organized protests, calling for a thorough investigation, while opposition leaders, including Bengal BJP legislators, advocated for an independent inquiry led by a magistrate.

Due to the slow progress and mishandling of the case, the Kolkata High Court transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). A specialized CBI team, including forensic and medical experts, arrived in Kolkata to begin their probe into the alleged rape and murder. Protests have erupted across the city, with a mob forcibly entering RG Kar Medical College during demonstrations. Police had to use lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Initial autopsy findings confirmed that the victim had been sexually assaulted before her murder, ruling out suicide. The report also revealed numerous injuries, such as broken bones and bleeding, indicating a violent death. Evidence suggests the victim’s nose and mouth were covered, and her head was forcibly pressed against a surface to stifle her cries. The crime is believed to have occurred between 3 am and 6 am, with signs of strangulation and smothering.

Several doctors who reviewed the autopsy report suggested the involvement of multiple assailants. Dr. Subarna Goswami, in an interview with India Today TV, noted the severity of the injuries, indicating the possibility of gang rape. The autopsy revealed 151 mg of semen in the vaginal swab, which Dr. Goswami stated was likely from multiple individuals based on the amount found. This further supports the theory that several attackers assaulted the trainee doctor.

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Kamal Fans Abuse YouTubers ‘Parithabangal’ For Parody On ‘Indian 2’

By
The Commune
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Kamal Fans Abuse YouTubers 'Parithabangal' For Parody On 'Indian 2'

YouTube comedy duo Parithabangal has found itself at the centre of a heated social media outrage by Kamal Hassan fans who were upset because the channel shared a parody of the much-trolled Tamil film, “Indian 2, starring their favourite actor.

It’s well-known that the movie “Indian 2,” featuring Kamal Haasan, a part-time politician and full-time actor, became one of the biggest film disasters of all Tamil cinema this year. As soon as the film hit theatres, critics panned it severely, burying it under a wave of negative reviews and trolling, hoping to deter future attempts at similar movies in Tamil Nadu.

On 9 August 2024, Netflix released “Indian 2” on its platform, reigniting the criticism. On 13 August 2024, the YouTube satire channel Parithabangal created a parody video of the film, which resonated with viewers who had experienced the movie’s torment firsthand. While many enjoyed the humorous take, Kamal Haasan’s fans were outraged. They felt deeply hurt by the satire and responded with a barrage of propaganda and abusive comments aimed at the YouTube content creators Gopi and Sudhakar.

Parithabangal Parody Of The Movie

Gopi and Sudhakar jibe at the film’s mindless, cringeworthy scenes in their parody video, which has already clocked over 2 million views in just two days. One of the epic takedowns was of actor Siddharth, who in the original film proclaims himself to be from “social media” as if it were a legitimate job.

Anirudh’s average background score, in which he uses the character’s name along with some beats, has also been trolled.

The parody also trolls how, in Indian 2, Kamal as Indian Thatha appears depending on social media hashtag trends.

Below are Some of the Rants & Abuses by Kamal Fans

One fan expressed intense anger towards the YouTube duo, saying, “Gopi & Sudhakar: I pray to all the powers that rule this world on behalf of good people that both of you and your families will perish. I pray to the almighty God that evils will continue to haunt both of you for many years.”

“Stop wagging your tails for biscuits put by someone. Don’t embarrass yourself by spitting in the opposite wind. Don’t spew hate in the name of the video. You shouldn’t forget that you will reap tomorrow what you sow today,” another fan said.

Recalling an old scam they were involved in, a fan said, “How can you enjoy this film as you looted the people’s money in the name of crowdfunding? Don’t come here and bark for a piece of bone that someone threw. You are not worth the dust of his feet.”

Another fan claimed, “This is a cheap trick and a personal vehemence and you call this fun.”

Another fan started abusing, “You are eating food, right? You have a family and a life. So why do you troll others like this and what do you get from these sons of B**du. You can drink someone’s p**s.”

https://twitter.com/karthickhaasan7/status/1823376599519224240

Another criticized their family stating, “For this, both of you can sell your newly married wife to pros**tution and earn.”

Another fan criticized Parithabangal, stating, “You can make a living by making fun of other people’s work and their artwork. You cannot make a film yourself. The only thing left is to cheat people’s money in the name of going to make a film on crowd funding.”

Another fan cried to initiate a defamation case stating, “@RKFI  Please file a defamation suite against these two, as they have been for the longest time defaming Mr.Kamal Haasan. If not them we should put a defamtion suite against these frauds.”

Another fan ranted, “Wherever we see you dogs you will be served biscuits Shameless Content Prostitutes. This is not talent & you will be in the street soon”

Another fan commented, “You stole common people’s money in the name of crowd funding, and you are conveniently living after sucking out their bloods. Yet here you are trolling a legend and the same people whose blood you sucked are supporting you. Where fools live cheaters like #gopisudhakar thrive.“

https://twitter.com/Hapu_27/status/1823711207939019114
Another said, “Paid mafia”

Another fan ranted, “Ban #GopiSudhakar YouTube ID & Twitter ID. Don’t You Know How to Give Respect to Others.Who are you?What’s Your Achievement? How Dare You Troll My #KamalHaasan? From whom did you get money and doing all these? You are thieves who scammed people’s money.” 

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BJP TN Chief Annamalai Mocks AIADMK MLA Sellur Raju’s Comments, Dismisses Alliance Possibilities

By
The Commune
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BJP TN Chief Annamalai Mocks AIADMK MLA Sellur Raju’s Comments, Dismisses Alliance Possibilities

Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai dismissed any possible alliance with AIADMK for the 2026 election, calling Madurai MLA Sellur Raju’s comments hinting at the same as a “comedy” and a misunderstanding.

Annamalai said the BJP has moved on and is not considering rekindling its alliance with the AIADMK during a press meeting in Chennai today. He was responding to a reporter’s question on Sellur Raju.

The state BJP chief used the opportunity to criticize the AIADMK and its MLAs, asserting that the BJP has chosen a separate path with leaders working towards a unified goal of winning elections. In contrast, he noted the inconsistency in the statements of AIADMK MLAs, who claim they are not interested in alliances but then ask for them, which he finds ironic.

Annamalai said, “If someone today says there should be an alliance and there should not, it shows their fear. We are clearly going on our path. We have identified and shown the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) leaders, not just once or twice. We are speaking unanimously on many stages, and all leaders are working tirelessly. We have placed the 2026 election as a coalition government before the people on one side. On the other hand, we are not speaking about other parties.”

He later said the AIADMK was unnecessarily issuing statements about the alliance. “You tell me if someone says ten times that I’m not going to ally with you. They keep saying we wont form an alliance tomorrow, on the third day, and on the tenth day, then I am in doubt if they are inviting us for an alliance. We have decided not to ally and have started our work. Hence, the former ministers and honourable leaders’ statements are like a comedy to me.”

Annamalai also expressed surprise at the misinterpretation of his speech at the Tirupur conference, which he believes has led to misleading statements. Annamalai ridiculed that, “To tell you I’ve forgotten that there is a party called ADMK, and we are doing our work.”

Previously speaking in Tiruppur, Annamalai highlighted a decline in vote shares for the two major Dravidian parties, noting that those with 40% support have dropped to 30%, 26%, and 19%. He remarked that if the AIADMK and DMK declare a willingness for a coalition government in Tamil Nadu for the 2026 elections, it could alter the political landscape. Annamalai emphasized that the BJP is closely monitoring the situation and suggested that a shift could occur if these parties explicitly use the term “coalition government”.

Annamalai said, “Parties that had a vote share of 40% have decreased to 30%, 26%, and 19%. If, in the 2026 Assembly election, the AIADMK and DMK declare that they are ready for a coalition government in Tamil Nadu, then the political landscape will change. We are not fools, and we are keenly watching the politics. For this to change differently, the DMK and AIADMK should take it into their hands, meaning they should use the word ‘coalition government.’ The DMK will not use that term, and I don’t know about the AIADMK. If they say it will be a coalition government, then change is possible.”

In response, Sellur Raju appeared to have misinterpreted Annamalai’s comments. Raju criticized Annamalai’s remarks, questioning whether Annamalai’s statements implied that AIADMK should request seats from the BJP and said, “It’s like ADMK should ask him for a seat. Is he a leader? Look at how he speaks. If AIADMK comes to such a position, we will die.”

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The Forgotten Story Of A Hindu Confederacy That Defended Bharat Against Arabs

By
Jayasri Viswanathan
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The Forgotten Story Of A Hindu Confederacy That Defended Bharat Against Arabs

Not enough has been said about the great emperors of Bharat who fought as a united confederacy to protect this sacred geography from countless barbarians who wanted to massacre natives and plunder this country.

On the 78th Independence Day, let’s crush the myth that India was always just “a union of states” and had fragmented leadership that fought each other mindlessly until a coloniser came along and unified them under one government.

Here is a story of a great Hindu confederacy that crushed the Arab ambitions to conquer India. It is a story of great Bharatiya kings who anticipated, prepared for, collaborated and successfully crushed foreigners who wanted to commit the same atrocities upon us that Bangladeshi Hindus are facing now.

The Sindh Massacre

Before the British, there were the Arabs, before the Turks, and before the Persians. And before them all, there stood a rampart of Indian valour, a bulwark against barbaric ambitions.

It all begins before the coronation of Lalitaditya Muktipada, the fourth ruler of the Karkota dynasty in Kashmir. He ascended the throne in 724 CE and was well aware of Mohammad Bin Qasim’s attack a decade earlier on Sindh.

Sindh was ruled by a Brahmin family founded by Chacha Rai. They had valorously repelled the repeated Arab onslaughts ordered by several Umayyad Caliphs at Thane (636 CE), Bharuch (643 CE) and Debal in Sindh (643 CE). However, in 711, Qasim attacked Sindh as an act of Jihad and massacred the entire male population of the town, including Raja Dahar, in a gory blood bath. An insider had treacherously sided with Qasim.

The echoes of this massacre reverberated across the land, a chilling reminder of the barbarity that awaited if Bharat were to fall into the wrong hands.

Interestingly, Qasim was killed shortly after capturing Sindh by the same Caliph who sent him. Raja Dahar’s brave daughter, Suryadevi, misinformed the caliph that Qasim had “used her first” before presenting her for the Caliph’s harem.

After Qasim was killed by the Caliph’s soldiers, Suryadevi and her sister Parimaldevi were buried alive after they proudly told the Caliph that they had lied to avenge their father’s death. That was the end of Raja Dahar’s rule and lineage.

Junayd-al-Murri, Arab Governor Of Sindh

When Lalitaditya became the king, he knew that the new Arab governor of Sindh, Junayd-al-Murri, planned to attack Kashmir the way Qasim attacked Sindh.

Lalitaditya was a man of action. He recognized the need to modernize his army to counter the Arab advantage in cavalry. Arab forces had the advantage of using horses and camels that moved faster than the elephants that Indian kings were using. By combining elephants with a formidable force of horsemen and foot soldiers, he created a military machine capable of matching the invaders on their terms.

Junayd didn’t know what hit him when Lalitaditya, with audacious strategy, preempted the invasion. He crossed the Punjab border, surprised Junayd’s forces, and inflicted a crushing defeat before returning to his capital triumphantly. Junayd never dared to attack Kashmir again.

But, Junayd shifted his focus southwards after his plans to invade Kashmir dashed against the rocks of Karkota King’s resolve.

The Arab Governor conquered Kangda, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Bharuch, carving a swathe through the heart of India. But Lalitadiya quickly thwarted his ambitions.

Hindu Kings United In A Battle For Bharat

By this time, Lalitaditya had formed a military alliance with several Hindu kings and shared intelligence from his past campaigns. This confederacy of Hindu kings, from the Himalayas to the Deccan, rose to challenge Junayd’s onslaught.

This formidable alliance formed a military confederacy that included:

North India: Lalitaditya Muktipada of Kashmir, and the Gurjara Pratihara king Nagabhata I of Ujjain.

East India: Kingdoms under Gurjara Pratihara kings in the Ganga basin, such as those in Bengal and Bihar

West India: The Lat king Pulkeshiraja and Gurjara ruler Jayabhat IV were key players in the western theatre, along with the Guhila ruler Bappa Rawal of Mewar.

Central India: The Gurjara Pratihara king Nagabhata I, based in Ujjain, played a pivotal role in the heart of the country.

South India: The Chalukya king Vikramaditya II, ruling from Badami in Karnataka, and his feudatory Rashtrakuta ruler Dantidurga joined hands with Lat king Pulkeshiraja as southern bulwarks against Arab expansion.

Together, the confederacy of these kings formed an impenetrable wall against Junayd’s ambitions. Their combined forces inflicted heavy losses on the Arabs, forcing them to abandon their expansionist plans.

The Sindh governor had now suffered three knocks after what had seemed an invincible Arab conquest in Sindh, Multan, Balochistan and Gandhar.

Junayd later decided to move menacingly towards Central India, towards the King of Kannauj, Yashovarman. But in a diplomatic checkmate, Lalitaditya and Yashovarman joined hands in a strategic alliance and defeated them ruthlessly.

The Caliph recalled Junayd and made Tamim-al-Utbi the new governor. Lalitaditya later chased Tamim away, too.

Thereafter, it took nearly three centuries for invasions from the West, starting with the Turkish forces of Ghazni, to even consider invading India and her frontiers.

Conclusion

There are many such stories of Hindu confederacies across India that valorously fought proselytizing armies at different times.

Here is another example shared by X handle @HindutvaItihas – In 1325, shortly after the Kakatiyas’ fall, a coalition of 75 Hindu chiefs in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, led by Prolaya Nayaka and Prolaya Vema Reddi rose to uphold Dharma. They successfully liberated Warangal, the Andhra coastline, and north Tamil Nadu from Muslim control. By 1335, they defeated Delhi’s defenders, Harihara and Bukka, at Anegundi, further strengthening their resistance. It was out of this struggle that the mighty Vijayanagara Empire was born.

Sadly, these stories are overlooked in our history books. They are tales of courage, unity, and strategic brilliance put up by Bharatiya powers against an expansionist global hegemony. The kings and warriors of this era were not merely defenders of their kingdoms; they were guardians of this Dharmic civilization.

It is time to reclaim this lost narrative. It is time to celebrate the heroes, from the Himalayas to the Deccan, who united against waves of marauding invaders. Let’s recognize that India was never a mere collection of disparate states but a unified nation, a civilizational powerhouse that inspired awe and fear in its enemies.

(This article is based on a chapter from Dr. Vikram Sampath‘s compelling work, “Bravehearts of Bharat,” which delves deeper into the heroic tales of India’s forgotten warriors.)

Jayasri Viswanathan is a journalist and columnist. 

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TN: Tirunelveli Villagers Successfully Halt Illegal Church Construction

By
The Commune
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Tirunelveli Villagers Successfully Halt Illegal Church Construction

The villagers of South Eranthai in Tirunelveli district successfully halted a Christian family’s unauthorized construction of a church on public land. They raised black flags during a two-day sit-in protest at a local temple, prompting officials to intervene and stop the construction.

A newly converted Christian family in a predominantly Hindu village near Nanguneri Union began building a church on public land.

The family continued construction despite protests from residents who suggested the family either worship at home or build the church on authorized private land, Hindu Munnani said.

South Eranthai, a village near Thisayanvilai in the Tirunelveli District, is predominantly Hindu, with 130 families.

The previous day, villagers conducted a hunger strike at the Uchimakali Amman temple to protest the unauthorized church construction. They also displayed black flags on their homes to symbolise their dissent.

Village leader Dhana Singh stated, “Since their conversion, the family has disrupted Hindu temple ceremonies. They are now constructing a church without the necessary approvals from the revenue department or police. Despite authorities’ orders to halt construction, work continues. We demand action on this issue. Else, we will stop sending our children to local schools and colleges and intensify our protest.”

Illegal Prayer House Next To Marungoor Vinayaka Temple

In a similar issue, the Hindu Munnani recently filed a formal complaint with the Thittacheri police station in Nagapattinam district, requesting a ban on an illegal prayer house opposite the Vinayaka temple on Marungoor Main Road, which allegedly sought to convert temple visitors.

“This prayer group is brainwashing poor Hindus with the intent of converting them to Christianity. They are also targeting patients in government hospitals under the guise of missionary work and pressuring them to convert. This illegal activity should be stopped, and action should be taken against them,” their petition states.

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“Chennai’s 1000-yr-old Peyazhwar Temple Is On Waqf Property”: TN Waqf Board Chief Claims

By
The Commune
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Waqf claims 1000-year-old Chennai Peyazhwar temple

Tamil Nadu Waqf Board President Abdul Rahman announced that many Hindu temples are present on Waqf properties, including the Peyazhwar Temple, on land allegedly owned by the Kutchery Road Mosque. Rahman said the board never disputed their existence or interfered with its operations even then.

Rahman also claimed that some individuals are attempting to politicize Hindu temples located on Waqf board properties.

During a recent press conference in Nagapattinam, he explained that during the British era, the Waqf Board was established to manage lands voluntarily donated by wealthy individuals to maintain dargahs and mosques. He emphasized that the “Waqf Board has never opposed Hindu temples situated on Waqf properties” and views such temples as a pride.

Rahman accused certain parties of trying to create discord between religious communities by politicizing these Hindu temples. At the same time, the Board’s primary concern remains addressing any attempts to expropriate these properties illegally.

At a press conference on 11 August 2024, Abdul Rahman clarified the status of Tiruchendurai village. He explained that a wealthy Mirasdar had donated 385 acres of land for public use, officially registered with the Waqf Board. He said this is documented and recorded with the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board. Based on these documents, including survey numbers and other data, orders were issued to all sub-registrar offices to prevent the sale of these lands without permission, including orders on Tiruchendurai.

Rahman noted that Tiruchendurai has since expanded to over 600 acres. The Waqf Board’s authority is limited to reclaiming land it owns, and any suggestion that the Waqf Board is seeking to claim the entire village is misleading and creates unnecessary panic among the public. He emphasized that the Waqf Board has not made such claims.

Addressing the allegations regarding the Waqf Board’s claims on 1,000-year-old temples, Abdul Rahman clarified, “A 1000-year-old temple is pointed out in the particular area, and the temple is not an issue as the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board has never said anything about it. The Waqf does not even claim the presence of a temple on Waqf property.”

Rahman provided an example from Sooriyur, a vast village in the Trichy district that is one of seven villages under Waqf management. He said that “eight to nine lakes surround a 1000-year-old temple. The documents state that the temple and these surrounding lakes belong to the Hindus for their worship and should continue. Therefore, we are not disputing it.”

Continuing his response to claims regarding Hindu temples, Abdul Rahman provided another example from Chennai. He mentioned that the Kutchery Road Mosque, which owns 144 grounds, includes a 4-ground piece of land on which the Peyazhwar temple is situated. He questioned whether the Waqf Board has ever claimed this land.

Abdul Rahman said, “Chennai’s Kutchery Road Mosque owns 144 acres of land, among which four grounds contain a temple called Peyazhwar Temple or something like that. It is on waqf property. Have we ever talked about it? The Hindus worship there, so we are keeping it as it is.”

Rahman emphasized that the lands donated by wealthy individuals were meant for public benefit and should be viewed from a religiously neutral perspective. Ironically, he further argued that while the temple belongs to Hindus, the land is under the Waqf Board’s jurisdiction, which has a duty to protect these lands. He noted that the Waqf Act underscores the importance of safeguarding such properties.

Finally, Abdul Rahman buttressed his claim with a thought-provoking explanation regarding the claim on the 1,000-year-old temple. He illustrated his point with a hypothetical scenario. If he were to purchase a piece of land that contains a Vinayagar temple and allowed the worshippers to continue their practices there, it would be unreasonable for those worshippers to then claim the temple as their own based on its 600-year history after the purchase. Rahman used this analogy to emphasize that, likewise, the Waqf Board manages lands and properties of villages like Tiruchendurai and others, including temples. However, he did not address how these ancient properties came under Waqf’s control.

Who was Peyazhwar?

Pey Azhvar, one of the twelve Alvar saints, is a key figure in the Vaishnava tradition of Hinduism in Southern India. Ranked third among the principal Azhvars, he is renowned for composing a hundred verses, known as Munram Tiruvantati. According to legend, Pey Azhvar was discovered at the Adi Kesava Perumal Temple in Mylapore, Chennai.

In Tamil, pey refers to someone who is possessed. The saint was intensely devoted to Lord Vishnu.

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