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IIT Guwahati Student Detained Following Social Media Proclamation Joining ISIS

By
The Commune
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Tauseef Ali Farooqui, a student at IIT Guwahati known for his quiet demeanor and academic excellence in the field of biotechnology, reportedly declared his affiliation with ISIS in a recent LinkedIn post. In his open letter, he cited India as a land of non-believers, urging them to convert to Islam or face consequences. Assam police took him into custody on 23 March 2024.

 

(Pic Credit: TimesNow)

Tauseef Ali Farooqui penned an open letter declaring his disassociation from the Indian construct and Constitution, asserting allegiance solely to Allah. In the letter, he expressed his aim to emigrate Muslims to the Islamic State in Khorasan Province, challenging non-believers to confront him on his journey starting from Guwahati. Farooqui emphasized the Muslim duty to fight only against non-believers and claimed all land belongs to Allah. He concluded with a call for non-believers to repent, warning of dire consequences otherwise. This letter raised alarm among security agencies upon its publication on LinkedIn.

Kalyan Pathak, the Additional Superintendent of the Special Task Force within the Assam police, stated that a lookout was issued and a search was conducted at the airport. The individual, a student hailing from New Delhi, was eventually found in Hajo. Pathak mentioned that the police are currently interrogating him, noting that the student expressed a preference to remain solitary.

Haris Farooqi, the leader of ISIS operations in India, was apprehended by Assam police on 20 March 2024, alongside his accomplices. Farooqi, who has been involved in such activities since 2019, had long been suspected of orchestrating the radicalization of susceptible Indian youths. Among his associates was Anurag Singh, also known as Rehan, originally from Panipat, who converted to Islam; his spouse is a Bangladeshi citizen. Farooqi had been believed to be evading capture in Bangladesh.

Farooqi has played a significant role in establishing modules across several states in India, including Jharkhand, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Originating from Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, Farooqui was sought by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He possesses expertise in indoctrination, fund management, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), resembling Yasin Bhatkal of the Indian Mujahideen (IM), who executed numerous bombings post-2008. Farooqi’s involvement surfaced subsequent to the NIA’s apprehension of Faizan Ansari, a 19-year-old BA Economics Hons student at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), in July of the preceding year. Ansari had encountered radicalized individuals affiliated with ISIS during his tenure near the AMU campus. Those familiar with the matter assert that Farooqi actively participated in a terrorist plot, which encompassed disseminating ISIS propaganda via social media to radicalize and enlist susceptible youths for various terrorist endeavors.

Farooqi formerly organized multiple modules across India and established exclusive circles, aiming to recruit individuals into ISIS. NIA brought the duo to New Delhi under transit remand. Parthasarathi Mahanta, IGP STF of Assam Police, informed the media, “Fifteen days ago, Assam police received intelligence on ISIS activities. We assembled a team and commenced operations on 18 March. On 19 March, a search operation was conducted in Dharmashala, Dhubri. They were on foot, seeking transportation to leave the area. We possessed photographs of ISIS leaders, which matched theirs.”

He further stated, “As there were ongoing cases with the NIA, we’ve transferred them to their jurisdiction. It’s likely they stayed in Assam for a brief period. Our focus is on addressing their sleeper cells within the state.”

Assam police announced on 20 March 2024,that they had received information from sister agencies indicating that two high-ranking ISIS leaders in India, currently situated in a neighboring country, were planning to enter India through the Dhubri Sector to carry out acts of sabotage. Both individuals are identified by the police as highly indoctrinated and driven leaders or members of ISIS operating within India. They have actively promoted ISIS’s agenda in the country by engaging in schemes related to recruitment, funding, and carrying out terrorist acts using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in various locations across India. Multiple legal cases against them are currently under investigation by agencies such as the NIA, Delhi, ATS, and Lucknow.

(With Inputs From Economic Times)

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Artist Deepa Baskar Alleges That She Was Not Paid For Performing At “Kalaignar 100” Event

By
The Commune
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In a startling revelation made by supporting artist and actress Deepa Baskar in an interview with a YouTube channel, she disclosed that she has not received payment from the administration of Kalaignar TV for her performance at the recent “Kalaignar 100” event held in Chennai. Despite two months having elapsed since the event, she has yet to receive any compensation. What’s even more surprising is that the artists were not provided with basic amenities such as dressing rooms, adding to the grievance, according to the interview.

The Tamil Film Producers Association convened an event titled “Kalaignar 100” on 6 January, 2024, at Chepauk, Chennai, dedicated to commemorating the accomplishments of the late M Karunanidhi, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. This event was aimed to honor Karunanidhi’s contributions to both the film industry and politics. Actors and actresses were in attendance at the event, where artists were invited to showcase their talents through various performances such as drama and dance.

One among the many was actress was Deepa Baskar she had previously worked as suporting artist in TV serials and acted in the movie Karnan has went to particiate in the event. when the anchor of the show question Deepa about the participation in the event, she mentioned she had the anticipation that even on normal show they will treat artists good, and event like Kalaignar 100 she had more expectation but that was contrary, she said ”

Among the performers was actress Deepa Baskar, who had prior experience as a supporting artist in TV serials and had appeared in the movie “Karnan.” When ‘Wow Tamizha’ show’s host asked about her participation in the event in the Kalaignar 100 , Deepa expressed her disappointment. She had anticipated being treated well, as she believed artists are usually respected even in regular shows. However, her expectations for the Kalaignar 100 event were higher, yet she found the reality to be contrary to her hopes. Deepa replied, “Food was not good, and nothing was good, As they called as we went there and performed”

Later, the anchor inquired of Deepa whether the reports regarding technicians and artists not receiving their salaries were accurate. She replied, “We do everything expecting the salary, Even if I call now, they never picks up the phone. I got bored after asking repeatedly. I used to ask about the money appeared in many films and they say now and then, now it has become usual in the media that not giving the payment. That too in Kalaignar centenary event we went in high expectations. They said that the rules are during the three days of shooting, no other shooting should take place, the artistes should do two days of rehearsal and one day of performance on stage. If they have said we will not give (Payment) I’d have gone to act there. At least i’d have received a pay”

She elaborated that besides herself, many others such as drivers, makeup assistants, and hairdressers were not compensated for their services at the event. She emphasized that no one has received payment yet, and there is still an expectation that they will eventually be compensated.

When the anchor inquired whether Deepa believed that the administration (under Stalin/Udhayanidhi) was unaware of the issue of non-payment to artists, she responded by pointing out that numerous voices in the media have raised this concern. She questioned whether it was plausible that (Stalin) himself remained unaware, especially considering that many artists come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and rely on their wages. Deepa suggested that while it seemed likely that he (Stalin) was aware, the reasons for the lack of action on the matter remained unclear.

Subsequently, she revealed that upon raising the matter on Facebook, she discovered that drivers and advertising agencies not been paid, but also others were affected by the non-payment issue.

TN Cop Detained In Bangladesh, Possible Cross-Border Gold & Drug Smuggling Links Under Probe

By
The Commune
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A Selaiyur police station special sub-inspector (SSI) in Chennai has been apprehended by the Bangladesh army for allegedly attempting an illegal border crossing into the country. Identified as John Selvaraj, aged 47, he was on medical leave when detained, as per police reports.

Authorities are investigating Selvaraj’s potential ties to transnational gold and drug smuggling rings, and possessed 7500 dollar cash. It’s noted that Selvaraj has a history of taking unauthorized leaves and was previously suspended for such actions. Originally from Trichy, Selvaraj previously served as a driver in the Trichy police force before transferring to the Chennai city police and later to Selaiyur.

Though he has a record of frequent absences, there were no significant red flags regarding his behavior, according to a police official. Selvaraj had a prior suspension for unauthorized leave, which was later rescinded upon formal apology.

Sources reveal Selvaraj took a hiatus from work between 2006 and 2009, during which he resided in Singapore. He resumed duty in 2010 in Tiruchy until his transfer to Chennai in 2019. According to a Times of India report, an officer provided insights into the situation involving SSI Selvaraj. The officer stated that John Selvaraj took a two-day leave to attend a family wedding of a retired police officer, beginning from March 19. Additionally, Selvaraj requested a 12-day medical leave via mail.

Further details from an officer who previously worked with Selvaraj in Trichy revealed that Selvaraj served as a police vehicle driver from 2004 to 2009. Subsequently, he left the service from 2009 to 2019, during which period he resided in Singapore. However, he was reinstated into the police force, eventually attaining the rank of SSI. He was subsequently posted in the Tambaram commissionerate. Currently residing in Madipakkam, his wife and daughter live separately. Senior police officials have contacted Bangladeshi authorities for additional information on the matter.

Another officer mentioned that Selvaraj had taken a 60-day medical leave a few months ago.

(With Inputs From TNIE)

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“M***** F*****”: DMK Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan Abuses PM Modi With DMK MP Kanimozhi On Stage

By
The Commune
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The famous China flag DMK Minister of Animal Husbandry in Tamil Nadu, Anitha Radhakrishnan, has stirred controversy once again. This time, he vented his anger towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, delivering abusive remarks on the DMK platform where the Deputy General Secretary of the party and Thoothukudi MP, Kanimozhi, was also present.

A gathering of I.N.D.I Alliance convened in Tandupathu village near Tiruchendur. During the event, Minister Anita Radhakrishnan remarked on an incident where an advertisement he placed mistakenly featured a picture of a Chinese rocket. He contrasted this with Prime Minister Modi’s interactions with the Chinese Prime Minister, including their visits to various places like Mahabalipuram, where Modi was seen in traditional Tamil attire of veshti and shirt. Radhakrishnan noted Modi’s praise for Kamaraj during these encounters.

Continuing, the minister accused the BJP of attempting to harm Kamaraj during his time in Delhi.  He questioned Modi’s sincerity in his recent speech in Salem, where he spoke fondly of Kamaraj. Radhakrishnan expressed indignation, stating that despite the BJP’s past actions, they had no right to speak about Kamaraj.

Anitha Radhakrishnan said, “I am asking while speaking in salem, he (PM Modi) spoke about Kamarajar, as if Kamarajar hugged and embraced him and as if he happily accepted, Mother-Fuckers we know what you did, you guys tried to kill him when he was in Delhi. What right do they have to talk about Kamaraj”

 

Furthermore, Radhakrishnan urged the electorate to ensure that all candidates opposing Kanimozhi in the upcoming Thoothukudi parliamentary elections lose their deposits. This statement has gained significant traction online, with the video of his abusive remarks becoming viral.

The Tamil Nadu BJP has issued a strong condemnation against DMK Minister  Anita Radhakrishnan and MP Kanimozhi, expressing deep disapproval of their recent statements stating, “Strong Condemnation! DMK Minister Thiru @ARROffice has spoken disgustingly about our beloved Prime Minister Thiru @narendramodi avl who hails from a humble background and has dedicated his entire life for the people of India, and DMK MP Tmt. @KanimozhiDMK has stood witness to this nauseating act! But, this is not surprising! In-fact, this is the vile, vulgar political culture that is in the very DNA of the DMK! What’s worse? Without condemning this obscene talk, Tmt @KanimozhiDMK enjoys the speech on stage, exposing her pseudo-feminism! People will teach the DMK and I.N.D.I. Alliance a fitting lesson! The law will also do its duty! This time the “Rising Sun” will go down the horizon!”

This verbal attack directed towards the BJP occurs in the context of recent criticism aimed at the party leader. This criticism stemmed from Anitha Radhakrishnan recent faux pas in a Full Page Advertisement depicting PM Modi inaugurating a spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam with Chinese rockets, rather than Indian ones, sparking widespread mockery and trolling. Additionally, he faces scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding an old case dating back to when Anitha Radhakrishnan served as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development in the AIADMK government from 2001 to 2006. The DVAC investigation revealed assets worth ₹4.90 crores in excess of Radhakrishnan’s reported income during his tenure, resulting in significant political backlash and pressure on him.

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History Repeats: What Happened To BJP’s SG Suryah Happened To His Grandfather ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram 47 Years Ago

By
The Commune
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The recent announcement by the BJP regarding its candidate list for the upcoming elections brought to the fore an unexpected twist. Former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, stepping down from her position, declared her intention to contest the Lok Sabha elections, with South Chennai designated as her constituency. This decision marked a pivotal moment, as it intersected with the aspirations of BJP State Secretary, S.G. Suryah, who had been actively engaged in groundwork within the same constituency.

Suryah’s extensive groundwork and community engagement within South Chennai had positioned him as a formidable candidate, endorsed by the burgeoning support for BJP in the constituency. His dedication during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and floods, further solidified his standing as the face of BJP in the region.

According to sources, Suryah’s name was among the top choice of 3 probable names considered for South Chennai constituency. As soon as Tamilisai Soundararajan’s re-entry into activie politics was announced it was discussed that she may contest from Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli or South Chennai. However, the decision to allocate the South Chennai seat to Tamilisai came as a surprise to many, given Suryah’s ardent efforts and growing influence.

But what happened to SG Suryah happened to his late grandfather and BJP leader ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram.

According to The Hindu Tamil, during the 1977 Legislative Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, the Kumari Anandan-led Gandhi Kamaraj National Congress Party was part of the broader Janata alliance. Kumari Ananthan is the father of Tamilisai Soundararajan.

SG Suryah’s grandfather ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram, a grassroots worker of the Sangh Parivar and a member of the Janata Sangh was poised for candidacy in the Rishivanthiyam constituency. He had begun his work in the constituency early on. Yet, fate took a different turn when Kumari Ananthan, representing the coalition party, fielded his own candidate, Jayachandran. Despite not being fielded as the candidate as expected, ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram worked tirelessly for his alliance party’s candidate.

As soon as Tamilisai Soundararajan was declared as the BJP’s South Chennai candidate Suryah released a video affirming his support and commitment to the party’s decision to field Tamizhisai Soundararajan.

He praised Dr.Tamizhisai Soundararajan, crediting her for providing him with opportunities, including his appointment as the Youth Wing leader and official spokesperson for the Tamil Nadu BJP.

He pledged to dedicate himself tirelessly leading up to the election date of 19 April 2024, specifically focusing on South Chennai. He said that he would campaign vigorously for Tamilisai Soundararajan to fulfill Prime Minister Modi’s target of securing 400 seats in Parliament this year.

Back in the day, ‘Thirukovilur’ Sundaram put party interest above self-interest and sacrificed it for father Kumari Ananthan. Today, his grandson SG Suryah has put party interest above self-interest for Kumari Ananthan’s daughter Tamilisai Soundararajan.

History repeats itself across generations albeit under different circumstances.

(With inputs from The Hindu Tamil)

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Yes, EVR Called For A Genocide Of Tamil Brahmins! Here’s The Proof

By
The Commune
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Over the past couple of days, advocates of the Periyarist and Dravidian ideologies have been consistently claiming that their leader E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (EVR) is a respectable figure who never incited violence or promoted hatred against Brahmins, nor did he speak disrespectfully about women. However, this attempt to portray EVR positively while casting Brahmins in a negative light has been debunked. Below are several instances where he openly expressed his animosity towards Brahmins.

To verify the credibility of the article, let’s begin with Suba Veerapandian, a prominent advocate of EVR’s ideology, who addressed the audience (specific event name not clear). He elaborated on the reasons behind advocating for the annihilation of Brahmins, “After Anna (Annadurai) parted with Periyar, he began saying, “We are not against Brahmins, but Brahminism” stating this when we inquired if Ayya (EVR) agreed with this statement, EVR responded “it’s right sir, It’s right. I’m also not against the mosquito, Sir. I’m only against the mosquito bite, but how can you get rid of mosquito bite without killing the the mosquito? The reason why I oppose Brahmins is, Brahminism coming from them only, no? Nowadays, many people say things without understanding. You always talk about their Brahminism, but never talk about other castes, Yes, I am not denying that. There is Brahminism alive in other castes too. But what we have to see is, what is the source of both Brahmanism? The Brahmin is the source of both Brahminism, who benefits from both Brahmanism? This comes from ignorance, that Brahminism comes from the arrogance . We should not see both of these as same, but we have to oppose both. I’m not saying both Brahmins should not be opposed, both should be opposed, but both should not be seen as equal.”  

In another instance, Viduthalai magazine published an article regarding a speech delivered by EV Ramasamy Naicker (EVR) on 31 August 1959, in Chidambaram. In this speech, EVR espoused sentiments of hatred, advocating for the removal of Brahmins from society. EVR said, “Do you hate Brahmins? Or Brahminism? Or what is Brahminism? What is the answer to the question? Brahminism came from Brahmins themselves, right? Therefore, I say that the Brahmins should be eradicated. It is because one is a thief, one indulges in thievery. When someone says he hates thievery, it means he hates the thief, too, doesn’t it? Thus, Brahminism grew out of the Brahmins and I am striving to annihilate the root.”

The book “Periyar Thought Collection Part 1” records a speech by EVR where he advocated for the killing of Brahmin men and women if the Rajaji government failed to withdraw the Madras scheme of elementary education (Kulakalvi Thittam) in 1953.

EVR says, “If Kulakalvi scheme is not withdrawn in a month, I asked (people) to stab every and any paapaan and [aapaathi (Tambram man and woman). Buy petrol and matchsticks and set fire to all Agraharams. In our protest, if we shoot 10, 20 people and are hung for it, what’s wrong with it?”

That’s why we took this effort. It materialized somewhat. All Tamil Brahmins got afraid and complained to Rajaji that ‘Because of your bad decision, all our Agraharams are in danger. We are afraid to go for our jobs alone. Our women are scared to walk the streets alone’ Which is why Rajaji resigned in 1954 (as CM) and ran away.

In another incident, EVR made a direct comparison between Brahmins and Jews, suggesting that Brahmins should be forcibly removed from India. This statement was made in 1938, coinciding with the rise of persecution against Jews in Germany. It is evident that EVR’s intention behind this comparison was to incite prejudice and discrimination against Brahmins. Additionally, he expressed the belief that in order to eliminate caste in India, it was necessary to eradicate God, religion, scriptures, and Brahmins. This rhetoric raises concerns about the promotion of genocide-like sentiments. He states, “The people in India are in a situation where they have to expel the Aryans, just like they expel them saying that they have no right to be in Germany. It is worth noting that the reasons given by the Germans for expelling the Jews fit the Indians for expelling the Aryans.”

In a separate address by EVR in Virudhunagar in 1944, he offered guidance to students, proposing that just as the Germans persecuted Jews and rose to power, why shouldn’t we do the same to Aryans?

He stated, “The Germans asked, why should Jews remain in our land? Why should the Jew exploit our country? What business does an alien have in our land? Why should a outsider oppress us? With such passion, they got excited and protested. Because of that Germany today is a super power and other countries are afraid of it. Why should we also not be like that (Germany)? We should think like this.” 

K. Veeramani, the current president of Dravidar Kazhagam, warned Thughlak editor S. Gurumurthy in an article published in Viduthalai in 2022 about the incidents following MK Gandhi’s assassination. After MK Gandhi was killed, Brahmins (Chitpavan Brahmins) were targeted and their homes were raided in Maharashtra. He speculated on what might have happened if EVR had given a signal, suggesting that EVR should be praised for not inciting such actions. Veeramani also remarked in the article that it wouldn’t take Dravidar Kazhagam more than a minute to provoke non-Brahmins against Brahmins, cautioning against provoking individuals like himself. This statement could be interpreted as a veiled threat, hinting at the potential for instigating conflict between different groups. It indicates the kind of considerations that might have been entertained in 1948 but were ultimately not pursued due to practical constraints.

In another instance, during his speech in Karaikudi, EVR openly encouraged non-Brahmins to kill Brahmins. EVR said, “They are celebrating festival it seems , he is celebrating Soora Samhaaram, what is it? He (Soorapadman the demon) was someone who said there is no god, they killed him, therefore now we can kill those buggers… that won’t be wrong (if we kill them) may be legally it will be wrong, that legal offence and all are bullshit we cant be bothered that it is legally wrong. We have to come to the conclusion, wherever we see a temple we must go inside and break all the idols inside, wherever we find Paapan (Brahmins) we must kill and destroy him. He has done like this to us, after all he (Tamil Brahmin) has done things like this only to come to this position. We must also do to the him, whatever he has done, what, a few of us have to die, if one Tamil dies for one paapan, means only three of us will die out of every hundreds, balance 94% will still remain.”  

The Kudiyarasu magazine of 1948 contained a disturbing article attributed to EVR, in which he speculated about the motives behind Ambedkar’s second marriage. According to him, Ambedkar’s wife, Lakshmi, was purportedly a Brahmin who attempted to poison him by lacing his drink. Ambedkar did not consume the poison, and she was subsequently apprehended by authorities. Hence he says, “Do not fall for Brahmin woman’s eye.”

So, no matter how much the Dravidianists, leftists and the woke Brahmins try to hail EVR as a social reformer, the fact that he instigated violence and annihilation of a community is undisputable.

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Dr Ananda Shankar Jayant – The Face Behind The Ramayana Kalpavrksam Festival

By
The Commune
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Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant is a multifaceted personality who effortlessly navigates the realms of administration, academics, and the arts. Renowned as one of India’s foremost classical dancers, choreographers, and dance scholars, she leads an acclaimed ensemble while also grooming the next generation of Bharatanatyam artists. Her remarkable contributions to the field of classical dance have been acknowledged with prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri in 2007 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar for Bharatanatyam in 2009. Additionally, Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant is a sought-after motivational speaker, captivating audiences with her insights on various subjects across corporate entities, educational institutions, and other platforms. Her TED talk, ranked among the 12 Incredible TED talks, stands as a testament to her ability to inspire and engage.

In her pursuit of blending technology with the arts, Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant has conceptualized groundbreaking initiatives such as Natyarambha, a pioneering digital arts project that offers a Bharatnatyam practice app used by students and gurus worldwide. Her innovative digital product, Kutty Kahani, has garnered attention, even drawing praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his ‘Man ki Baat’ address in June 2023. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant has also served the Ministry of Railways in a senior capacity.

Under her artistic leadership, Shankarananda Kalakshetra has flourished into a premier institution for classical dance in Hyderabad since its establishment in 1979. As the institution commemorates its 40th year, it continues to uphold its commitment to promoting the performing arts on a national scale. Shankarananda Kalakshetra’s dance productions encompass a diverse range of themes, from traditional mythologies to contemporary social issues, showcasing the richness and versatility of Indian classical arts.

One of the hallmark events organized by Shankarananda Kalakshetra and Natyarambha is the Ramayana Kalpavrksam festival. This year the festival is scheduled to take place from 29 March 2024 to 31 March 2024, at the CCRT Campus, Madhapur, Hyderabad. This three-day extravaganza promises to captivate audiences with its dynamic lineup of performances, insightful discussions, immersive workshops, book releases, and more.

The festival’s evening events, collectively titled ‘Rama Rasa,’ will feature mesmerizing performances by esteemed artists. From Shankarananda Kalakshetra’s rendition of ‘Sri Rama Namam- Entha Ruchi Ra’ to Aayana Dance Company’s ‘Dhruva – Songs of Faith,’ the audience will be treated to a melange of classical and contemporary dance forms. Additionally, Vinaya Varanasi and Vivek Sadashivam will present ‘Sri Rama Raksha,’ blending storytelling with music, while Indosoul by Karthick Iyer will enthrall with their musical evening, ‘Rejoice in Raghu.’

In addition to performances, the festival will host thought-provoking talks by eminent speakers such as Dushyant Sridhar, Swati Goel Sharma, and Shefali Vaidya, exploring various facets of the Ramayana and its relevance in contemporary times. Furthermore, immersive arts workshops led by experts like Dr. Anupama Kylash and Uday Shreyas will provide participants with hands-on experiences in dance ideation and Sanskrit chanting.

Special sessions, including a meet-and-greet with renowned dancer Chitra Visweswaran and a book release of ‘Babur – The Chessboard King,’ will add to the festival’s allure. Attendees can also explore the artisan corner and bookshop, showcasing exquisite handicrafts and literary works.

With its diverse array of offerings, Ramayana Kalpavrksam 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Indian arts and culture. Audiences are encouraged to register for the event at www.ramayanakalpavrksam.com and immerse themselves in a three-day extravaganza that celebrates the timeless epic of the Ramayana through the prism of art and scholarship. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of the Ramayana brought to life by some of the country’s most esteemed artists and scholars.

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Implications Of BRS Top Tier Leader’s Arrest By The ED

By
The Commune
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On Friday, 15 March 2024, BRS (Bharath Rashtra Samithi) leader, K Kavitha, the daughter of BRS chief and ex-Telangana Chief Minister, K Chandrasekhar Rao, was arrested by the ED in connection with the infamous Delhi Liquorgate Scam. Several months ago, while the BRS was still in power in Telangana and her father was chief minister, K Kavitha was named a prime accused in the Delhi Liquor scandal, as a key participant of the “South Group” whose role in the liquor scandal was found to be a significant one in receiving kickbacks for liquor licences & sale. 

In a quick reversal of trends and political prospects, Telangana’s BRS is now slotted to fall to third place behind the Congress and the BJP for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Less than six months ago, before the recently held November 2023 Telangana state elections, the BRS’s political prospects and fortune were almost double what they appear to be at this point in time.

So what went wrong in a matter of a few months for a party that was in power for almost ten consecutive years through two state elections and one national election? It has only been ten years since the BRS shot into the national limelight as Telangana state’s first regional party in power after the division of the erstwhile state of Andhra Pradesh into Telangana and Andhra in 2014. Yet, within a short span of ten years, it has seen a lifetime of highs and lows. 

The party was previously known as TRS – Telangana Rashtra Samiti, a regional party founded with the principal aim of seeking a separate state for the Telangana region within the larger state of Andhra Pradesh. Kavitha’s father and BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao managed to accomplish the primary goal of his BRS (formerly TRS) in 2014, in conjunction with the Congress government at the centre, in the creation of a separate state, carved out from the larger state of Andhra Pradesh. 

His party’s main premise for seeking a separate statehood for Telangana was the claim that the Telangana region within the larger Andhra Pradesh was socially and economically ignored by political leaders, who for the most part, hailed from the Andhra region. Another theory claimed by Rao and his BRS/TRS was that while both Telugu-speaking regions of undivided Andhra Pradesh were linguistically similar and shared some common history, they were socially and culturally different.  

His claims were disproved by a central commission created to study the alleged social and economic disparity between the Andhra and Telangana regions within the state of undivided Andhra Pradesh. Based on its findings, the Srikrishna Commission recommended the continuity of a united Andhra Pradesh and suggested that the state should be divided ONLY under unavoidable circumstances. 

Despite the survey results of the Srikrishna Commission, the Sonia Gandhi-led Congress at the Centre in 2014 agreed to the TRS/BRS’s demand for the division of the state into two Telugu-speaking regions. At the time, there was widespread criticism and allegations of a purely political motive behind the Congress’s decision to split the state, despite the Srikrishna Commission’s findings. Almost ten years after the event, K Chandrasekar Rao and his family-centered party find themselves isolated from both the Congress and the BJP.  

Political reasons aside, Andhra and Telangana analysts believe this is partly the doing of Chandrasekar Rao himself, who is often chided for his crude personal attacks on leaders of all opposition parties including the Congress, the BJP, and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Rao finds himself without friends across party lines at a time when his daughter is being investigated for her involvement in a major liquor-related scam.

Reasons For The BRS’s Present Predicament

Many tall leaders of the BRS were originally from the Telangana state unit of the TDP and a few from the Congress as well. Their loyalties are split between their ‘original’ parties and the BRS, which they joined in 2014 for temporary benefit. After the party’s recent loss in the 2023 state elections, a number of these leaders have left the party in search of greener pastures.  

The BRS is still seen as a family party of K Chandrasekhar Rao, with the most coveted positions reserved for his immediate family (both his son and daughter were elected members/ministers) and extended family (his brother-in-law, Harish Rao, etc.). Rao is now an older man with health issues. Is the next generation of the Rao family ready for the uphill task of rebuilding and rebranding the party and helping it win another election or will it fade into oblivion after a short streak of success? In the current circumstances, will the party survive potential rivalry among family members? 

The first term of the BRS/TRS administration rode on a wave of the separate statehood sentiment, giving the BRS a significant emotional and sentimental advantage over the Congress, the TDP, and the BJP parties. However, by the second consecutive term, the initial euphoria of the people was beginning to die down and their support for the BRS was further dampened by several instances of arrogant behaviour and corruption by BRS leaders.

Aside from the initial advantage of the BRS in terms of its role in the creation of a separate state, the BRS does not have a distinct political ideology, different from that of the Congress. Its supporters and voters are inclined to vote either for the BRS or the Congress, easily switching between the two parties based on which of the two ideologically similar parties offers better welfare schemes and free handouts.

Implications Of The K Kavitha Arrest

The BJP doesn’t see the BRS as a partner in the near future. Chandrasekhar Rao has not been on comfortable or favorable terms in the past, with either Modi or Shah. It appears that the BJP does not see near-future prospects of a mutually beneficial political partnership.  

The BRS’s alliance with the minority-based AIMIM led by Hyderabad native, Asaduddin Owaisi, may also be a deterrent for the BJP, even if it chose to consider a potential partnership with the BRS. 

The BJP’s goal of growing its own voter base, preferring to retain a strong and distinct identity in various states Versus a continued reliance on partnerships with regional parties who may not share the BJP’s political ideology. 

The BRS’s weakened position serves the BJP’s organisational goal of reducing the importance and relevance of regional parties that do not share a similar political ideology centered on economic development, decentralisation, private business opportunities, the smaller role of government and bureaucracy, financial prudence, national security, nationalism and pride in a common, pan-Indian a civilisational and cultural heritage. 

There is news of many BRS leaders – both MLAs and MPs quitting the party in favour of either the Congress or the BJP. The BRS exodus appears to be benefitting the BJP, in line with their expectations that a weakened BRS will add to the BJP’s own strength in Telangana. 

Evidence against AAP’s Kejriwal gets closer with the arrest of top-tier, high-stakes political leaders like K Kavitha. Jagan Reddy’s YSRCP leaders, whose involvement in the Delhi Liquorgate scandal was investigated by the ED, have already turned approvers for the agency and have shared crucial information on a few AAP leaders. If Kavitha acknowledges the information already gathered by the ED and divulges any additional details, Delhi CM Kejriwal would be in trouble for his direct or indirect involvement in the liquor scam. As of Thursday, 20 March 2024, Kejriwal was taken into custody by the ED for interrogation. 

The BJP doesn’t see a future with Andhra’s YSRCP either. Jagan Reddy’s Andhra-based YSRCP is equivalent to Chandrasekhar Rao’s Telangana-based BRS. Both leaders are reported to share a close rapport, especially in the areas of political alignment and personal business interests. 

Both parties have a past with the Congress for their own reasons. Both parties toe the same line as the Congress with their political strategy of minority appeasement and/ or alliance with minority vote-bank groups. Ideologically, both the BRS and the YRSCP are closer to the Congress-Left-Secular grouping than they are to the BJP’s capitalist, cultural, and nationalist leanings. The BJP, by choosing to distance itself from Telangana’s BRS as well as Andhra’s YSRCP, sends a clear, ideologically-loud message to the Telugu electorate of both states.

Shivani is a freelance writer from Vijayawada.

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DMK Ally KMDK To Replace Suriamoorthy Known For Casteist Speeches With PCR-Accused?

By
The Commune
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The Kongunadu Makkal Desiya Katchi (KMDK), an ally of the DMK, gained notoriety recently due to a casteist video circulating online that advocated violence against Dalits by the party’s candidate Suriamoorthy.

Soon after the video went viral, there was widespread public and online outcry calling for the withdrawal of KMDK Suriamoorthy’s candidacy. In response to the backlash, both KMDK and DMK decided to retract Suriamoorthy’s candidacy.

On Friday, KMDK announced Madheswaran as the new candidate for the Namakkal constituency. However, the background of the newly selected KMDK candidate, Madheswaran, appears to be even more problematic.

A Facebook page named “Kongu Kavundargal” which predominantly posts news about KMDK party and Gounder caste has posted information about the arrest of KMDK Madheshwaran in the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act or more commonly PCR Act.

A Facebook post, dated June 11, 2016, alleges that Madheshwaran from the KMDK party engaged in a dispute with local police recently. Subsequently, when he attempted to file a complaint at the district SP office, local police allegedly dissuaded him from doing so. The post further claims that shortly after, Madheswaran was arrested on false PCR charges. According to the post, Madheswaran was remanded and transferred to Salem Jail in connection with the PCR case.

The Gounder caste page seized this opportunity to rally Gounders against other castes, labeling the case as fabricated and garnering sympathy for Madheswaran. They questioned whether such a situation was acceptable for a district secretary of the KMDK party, urging people to consider the plight of the common folk in the Kongu region. Additionally, the post urged unity against the PCR or SC/ST case.

On 15 June 2016, another post appeared on the Facebook page, announcing the release of KMDK’s Madheswaran on bail. The post called upon all Kongu people (Gounders) to gather near the Salem bypass to accord Madheswaran, who was arrested under the SC/ST Atrocities Act, a warm welcome. Notably, the call to assemble was made by none other than the ousted KMDK candidate, Suriamoorthy.
It’s evident that Suriamoorthy, Madheswaran, or any other member of the party show no distinction in their treatment of Dalits.

In a video from a Gounder conference taken before the 2019 Parliament elections, Madheswaran can be heard saying, “We have gathered 75% of our caste members. Our aim should be to solidify our caste’s vote even more, reaching 100%, and demonstrate our strength in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections (2019).”

“Has one casteist of KMDK been replaced by another KMDK casteist? Is this the Dravidian Model of social justice?” ask people.

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Pro-Congress Propagandists Unleash Venom On Anti-Corruption Activist Anna Hazare, All-In-All Sumanth Abuses Him As ‘Scum’

By
The Commune
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Social activist Anna Hazare expressed his dismay over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy, attributing it to Kejriwal’s own actions.

Speaking to ANI news agency in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, Hazare remarked that it is difficult to reconcile the fact that someone who once advocated against the consumption of alcohol is now involved in crafting policies related to liquor with the intention of money laundering.

Hazare emphasized, “I had told him that our job is not to make excise policy. Even a small child knows that liquor is bad. I had asked him to stay away from this (excise policy) issue. But he went ahead and made the policy. He thought that he will earn more money and that is why he made this policy. I felt sad and wrote to him (Arvind Kejriwal) twice. I felt sad that a person like Kejriwal, who once worked with me and raised our voice against alcohol, is now making the excise policy. He got arrested due to his deeds. Had he not done anything, there was no question of his being arrested. Now law will take its course and the government will do the needful”

Kejriwal had initially gained prominence by participating in the Anna movement in 2011, which aimed to combat alleged corruption within the Congress government. Subsequently, he established his own political party in 2012 and contested for the position of chief minister.

Kejriwal’s arrest occurred on 21 March 2024 on the evening following an interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate, after which he was taken to the agency’s headquarters where he remained overnight. This unprecedented arrest of a sitting chief minister came shortly after the Delhi High Court declined to shield the AAP national convenor from potential coercive measures by the agency. It should be noted that in relation to the Delhi Liquor Scam case, two leaders from AAP, namely Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are presently under judicial custody.

Despite Kejriwal’s arrest coinciding with the ongoing Lok Sabha election campaign, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) affirmed his continuation as the chief minister of Delhi, even suggesting the possibility of governing from jail if necessary. The AAP organized a protest against Kejriwal’s arrest, the BJP demanded his resignation from the chief ministerial position on moral grounds.

Against this backdrop, the AAP, feeling the weight of political pressures, began responding to social activist Anna Hazare’s comments regarding the arrest of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). They expressed their dismay and disappointment at the remarks made by the social activist, stating that they found them distressing. This response was echoed by individuals such as self-proclaimed fact checker Mohammed Zubair and political commentator Sumanth Raman, who are known for his obsession for commenting on everything under the sun.

Mohammed Zubair arrived to reinforce the notion that the video, shared by the news agency ANI, was propaganda – something he has been repeatedly doing. He justified the attack on ANI media persons by “farmer” protestors in February 2024 during the protests.

In this instance, he pointed out that at the 14-15 second mark, a voice is heard whispering from behind the camera. Hence Zubair concluded that this was a propaganda involving Anna Hazare.

The video appeared to have been recorded in a confined space, possibly Hazare’s residence in Maharashtra, although this is yet to be confirmed. In the background of the video, there was audible noise from a television. Due to his advanced age of 86, he spoke with a slightly subdued voice, yet his words were clear. While the cameraman or his assistant recording is saying ‘Sir, voice is audible‘, whispered this assertion without interrupting activist Hazare’s speech. Despite briefly glancing at the whispering voice, Hazare continued speaking uninterrupted. However, Zubair, in an attempt to propagate misinformation, insinuated through his official X handle that the news media outlet ANI was scripting Hazare’s speech.

Without delay, debunking the false narrative spread by Mohammed Zubair, netizens educated him with accurate information and mocked him for his past instances of spreading fake news – especially sticking to his “Naseer Saab Zindabad” narrative.

However, what came as a surprise was Sumanth Raman’s sudden intrusion without prior knowledge of the situation. In an unexpected turn of events, he referred to Anna Hazare as “Scum” on his official X handle. Sumanth Raman’s remark, “Why is this scum being resurrected now?” insinuated agreement with Mohammed Zubair’s stance.

Right away, netizens began to ridicule his hypocrisy and raised doubts about the sudden surge in his anger. They questioned whether his outrage stemmed from his association with the Congress party or because his leader had been imprisoned.

(with inputs from Hindustan Times)

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