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“Jose Is The Problem, If We Break His Hands And Legs, Everything Will Be Alright”: Did Nagercoil’s Alwin Arul Jose Also Die Because Of Church Politics?

The Commune had recently reported on the brutal murder of Xavier Kumar in Kanyakumari. Just as the issue was cooling down, the news of another alleged murder comes up in the same region. 

As per the News Tamil 24×7 report, in the Melaperuvilai region of Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district, Alwin Arul Jose, a resident, was involved in the business of buying and selling second-hand vehicles. 

Alwin was also a member of the Parish Council in the Japamalai Aalaya Matha church in Melaperuvilai. The Parish Father Carmel and Alwin worked as two teams for the church’s administration. 

In relation to this, a few days ago, the two got involved in an argument. The father is heard saying, “Did you ask? You have no qualification to ask.” In the same video, one of the members of Father Carmel’s team, Rajesh, is heard saying, “We have fixed a date for you.” Alwin is heard refuting this saying, “Don’t say that, our dates are fixed by God.”

While this happened on one side, on the other, on 2 February 2024, Alwin is said to have received a call concerning his business. He is said to have gone to Kavalkinaru to attend to it on his two-wheeler. He is said to have called up his friend Remejius and said that two people were following him. Within a short while, someone else called Remejius from Alwin’s mobile to tell him that Alwin was severely injured and had died. Alwin was taken to Asaripallam Government Hospital where they said he was not dead but was unconscious. 

Following this, Alwin was taken to Muthu Neuro Centre (a private hospital) in Sungankadai. He was admitted to the ICU for the past 10 days for treatment but passed away on 13 February 2023. 

Allegations By Alwin’s Relatives

Alwin’s relatives have raised allegations that Alwin did not die because of the accident. They also said that Alwin was constantly in touch with a person named Chinnathurai.  

The relatives alleged that they had filed a police complaint in this regard but no action was taken. Alwin’s sister, speaking to the press alleges that, “When we opened his mobile phone, we looked at the recent calls. We found that he (Alwin) had called Chinnathurai frequently and also received calls from Chinnathurai. He spoke till 1.56 that day with him. So we filed a complaint with the police. But they did not take any action. They filed this incident as an accident, they did not do any inquiry or investigation.”

Amidst all this, an audio file of an alleged conversation between a person named Iruthaya Rajan and Father Carmel Cruz has been leaked. The alleged audio says, “Jose is the problem, if we break his hands and legs, everything will be alright,”

When summing up the events, it seems clear that there is a conspiracy behind Alwin’s accident allege the relatives. They hope that action will be taken against the perpetrators. 

Thanthi TV Report

As per the Thanthi TV report on the same topic, they have merely reported it as an accident without going into the details of the incident. The report states that since the relatives alleged foul play in the death and refused to accept the mortal remains of Alwin, a controversy arose. The report also states that the relatives alleged that Alwin and Father Carmel Cruz were at loggerheads and that he was responsible for the accident. 

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Netizens Slam Chennai Police Twitter Account For Posting Quote Of EVR, The ‘Father’ Of Dravidianist Parties

The recent ‘inspirational’ message to women posted by the Greater Chennai Police (GCP) on its official microblogging site X handle, featuring quotes from E V Ramasamy (EVR) also hailed as Periyar by Dravidianists, sparked a discussion on social media. Netizens took the opportunity to engage in playful banter, expressing their varied perspectives on how the political figure was portrayed, juxtaposed with their own perceptions of reality. “Aval” or She is an initiative undertaken by the Greater Chennai City Police with the goal of ensuring the safety and enhancing the self-defence capabilities of young girls.

The GCP on its X handle said “It is enough to take away the ladle from women and give them a book – Periyar #அவள் #காவல் #aval #avalbygcp #avalsafety #avalawareness #GCPAVAL” and in the picture message read, “Every woman should learn a trade to be able to earn for herself. If so learned, no husband would dare treat his wife as a slave – Periyar

Questioning the connection between the police department, Periyar, and women, netizens began sharing their opinions, with some expressing criticism while others offered a mixed response to the post.

A netizen humorously mocked the Greater Chennai Police in a sarcastic tone, “I also thought it was the DMK IT Wing, but then I realized that both are the same.”

https://twitter.com/SaffronSurge3/status/1757298807015154078

Another netizen appended a video to his comment featuring EVR and Maniammai stating, “Then why not give that qualification to his adopted daughter and wife Maniammai? He had not even bought sandals to put on her feet.”

https://twitter.com/selvinnellai87/status/1757319789679120581

Another netizen respectfully urged the Tamil Nadu Police to share quotes on Twitter attributed to Bharathiyar not EVR. He wrote, “I humbly request the Tamil Nadu Police to quote and tweet what he said about Thirukkural as ‘poop on a gold plate’, what he said about why the price of cloth has gone up and Tamil is a barbaric language. Didn’t Bharatiyar write all the poems and essays about women’s progress?”

Another netizen urged police to share more sensible posts “Who is this person? Pls share sensible posts and don’t behave like propaganda machinery of a particular political party, dear Chennai police.

Another netizen mocked the Greater Chennai Police “Even the police has become a Dravidian model under the DMK regime.” 

Another netizen posted in the comment with pictures of pages of a book by EVR titled ‘Why is a woman a slave’. He highlighted that in Chapter 4 on Freedom of Marriage, EVR says “A brief look at our philosophy of marriage is nothing more than the enslavement of women by men. And they teach that a man should have only one wife and a wife only one man, and force them to live accordingly. The self respect movement’s main plan is ‘Annulment ‘. If the Marriage Annulment Act does not happen, the marriage rejection campaign and the multi-party campaign for both men and women who want to marry will have to be done. This is not conducive to religious unity, satisfaction, and pleasure, and we urge men who have women to come forward willingly and dare to marry the women they like again”.

Another netizen raised questions to the GCP by sharing two pictures along with corresponding excerpts. “Sir take a look at this book” In Viduthalai on 11 May 1953, EVR wrote “If you can’t control your lust, then solve it with your mother or daughter, they are women and your satisfaction is important to you.

Another netizen another shared excerpts of 11th edition 1997 of Tamilar Thalaivar book page 44, “On that day, EVR would often enter and leave through the courtesans home. Ramaswamy and his associates used to go to the Cauvery river sands along with the courtesans crowd during the moon days. They spend the whole night on the banks of the river and return home only at dawn. For this gathering, the food will come from EVR’s house. EVR ‘s wife Nagammai is the cook and dispatcher.”

Another netizen appended a video clip to the comment, featuring a scene from the movie “Periyar,” depicting EVR slapping his his wife, Maniammai in the cheek while dining.

Another netizen sharing EVR quotes from the Kudiarasu dated 8 February 1931, EVR advocating for gender equality “Women should be prepared to do the same as men. If a man keeps two courtesans, a woman should try to keep three desired heroes. Soon the situation will improve; a true compromise will emerge.”

Another netizen trolled the post by sharing a post of EVR’s wife Maniammai was serving food to EVR, with caption “It is enough to take away the ladle from women and give them a book – Ramasamy”

Another agitated netizen expressed frustration, stating, “A family with the help of the police grabbed the money of my wife who was living on her own and supporting her parents What the police say about women’s progress is shameful. Your department which is doing Katta Panchayat (kangaroo courts) is not qualified to talk about women progress.

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“Only After DMK Came To Power We Got Hope”: DMK Govt Sets Free Coimbatore Bomb Blast Terror Convicts, Sun News Glorifies Them As They Praise MK Stalin & His Govt

As the courts denounced the release of 1998 Coimbatore blast convicts, the state government, backed by various minority-centric political parties, reportedly sets free the three terrorists. With the approaching tragic anniversary on 14 February, seemingly for opportunistic political gains, the DMK government is contemplating the release of the terrorists to appeal to the extremist Islamist votes as Lok Sabha elections imminent.

On 7 February 2024 , Sun TV, affiliated with the DMK family, conducted an interview featuring three terrorists implicated in the 1998 Coimbatore blast case. In the interview, these terrorists openly expressed admiration for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and the DMK government. The terrorists, who seemed to have any remorse for their past actions, has since gained widespread attention on social media. The video, with all the background music, makes on think the terrorists were actually wronged by the justice system.

In the above video, one Mohammed Ibrahim expresses happiness that he feels happy to come out of prison after 25 years of distress and will now be able to live with his family.

I convey my heartfelt gratitude to those who fought for our freedom – including social organizations, political parties and other outfits” and goes on to name Islamist outfits like Tamil Nadu Muslim Munnetra Kazhagam (TMMK), SDPI, (Social Democratic Party of India – a subsidiary of the banned terror outfit Popular Front of India), Muslim League, Thamimum Ansari’s Manidhaneya Jananayaga Katchi, Tamil Nadu Thowheed Jamat etc. He also names I.N.D.I. Alliance parties namely Congress, VCK and also Naam Tamilar Katchi.

I prayed to God. We were so happy that what couldn’t be done by many governments, the DMK government did it“, Ibrahim said.

Another terrorist Shahul Hameed said “After the DMK government came, our release was brought to the attention of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. He only took cognizance of our requests and helped in our release. He repeatedly assured to release us and was of support throughout. Only after the regime change and the DMK government came to power, we got hope of our release.

Annamalai Condemns The Move

On 13 February 2024, Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president K Annamalai conveyed his apprehensions in a video message on the microblogging platform X. He voiced concern about the DMK government’s attempts to release 16 convicts linked to the Coimbatore bomb blast right before the Lok Sabha elections. Annamalai strongly criticized these efforts and concluded his message with a warning to the DMK government to refrain from repeating a misadventure similar to the one in 2009.

Annamalai expressed concern about the DMK government’s efforts to release 16 convicts involved in the Coimbatore bomb blast just before the Lok Sabha elections. The Coimbatore bombing on 14 February 1998, resulted in 58 deaths and over 200 injuries. The incident occurred during the DMK government’s tenure, and there is criticism of their attempts to release the convicts despite strong opposition.

In 2009, nine convicts were released, drawing criticism from various quarters, including Cho Ramasamy, who equated it to the government patronizing a terrorist organization. The Supreme Court rejected bail for the remaining 16 convicts in October 2023, deeming it a grave crime of high order. However, the DMK government, after receiving a report from the Justice Aadhinadhan Committee in 2021, is making efforts to release the prisoners.

The BJP in Tamil Nadu strongly condemns these actions, emphasizing that the people of Tamil Nadu are also against the government’s attempts to release the convicts. The message highlights the seriousness of the crime and the potential risk to human lives if the release is pursued. The concern is reinforced by recent incidents, such as a suicide bombing in 2022 in Coimbatore, and ongoing efforts by the NIA to address terrorism-related activities.

The message concludes with a plea for the DMK government not to embark on this misadventure again, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing human lives over electoral gains.

 In the video message, Annamalai said, “It is very unfortunate that the DMK government is trying its best to release 16 convicts in the infamous Coimbatore bomb blast and they are doing everything within their power to get this done just before the Lok Sabha elections just to get a brownie point. We all know February 14 1998 that day is etched in the memories of Coimbatore people and Tamil Nadu, because Tamil Badu has never seen a bomb blast of that order. 58 people killed, and more than 200 people injured, bombs found in 24 other locations. It was squarely aimed at L K Advaniji, our Bharat Ratna… and luckily with God’s grace Advaniji escaped. Unfortunately, innocent people who got nothing to do, they all got killed on that day. The incident happened during the government of DMK, now DMK tried everything within its power to release the convicts at different points of time against people’s opinion.”

“In 2009 November 7 they released 9 convicts of this case. Cho Ramasamyji a great writer and ideologue, he mentioned this act is equal to a government of the day acting as a patron of a terror organization. Now there is huge demand, they create an artificial demand which every single political party in Tamil Nadu except BJP, they all want to join the bandwagon to release the remaining 16 people also. Now it is very unfortunate to see the political parties of Tamil Nadu behaving just for vote bank politics. Only in October 2023, the Supreme Court has squarely rejected the bail for all the 16 convicts saying it is a grave crime of very high order” he said.

“Now the DMK government in 2021, after they come to power, they got Justice Aadhinadhan Commission, more like an eyewash commission, they got a report from the commission which said they should be released. They find all means at their disposal to release all the 16 prisoners immediately. Now BJP Tamil Nadu, we strictly condemn, not only do we condemn, we believe that people of Tamil Nadu are against this act of government trying to release these people early. Only in 2022, just before Deepavali, a suicide bomber targeted the city of Coimbatore. Fortunately only the suicide bomber got killed and none of the people got killed or injured, the common people. And the NIA is still raiding multiple charge-sheets filed, even day before yesterday the NIA has raided, arresting multiple people of the same module, ISIS-inspired module. Now they want to release these people,” he further said

“I clearly don’t know what the DMK’s mindset is. If there is somebody who will do religious appeasement politics of the highest order in India, DMK comes first. We are not against other prisoners getting released, who don’t fall under the category of terror crime or the crimes of highest grievous nature. But this is the crime of highest grievous nature even the Supreme Court on October 2023 has said. Now they are trying everything under their disposal to get them before Lok Sabha election just because of the winning elections and getting votes matters more than human lives. I hope and pray the DMK doesn’t get into this misadventure. In 2009 they have done one mistake, I hope, they won’t do the second one,”  he concluded.

Devastating Coimbatore Serial Blasts – A Grim Chapter

The 1998 Coimbatore serial blasts, orchestrated by S. A. Basha, the founder of the Islamic fundamentalist group Al Ummah, unfolded in a series of 12 bomb attacks across 11 locations. The intended target, L.K. Advani, narrowly escaped the tragedy due to a delayed flight, marking a dark day in Coimbatore’s history on 14 February. The aftermath of the blasts left 58 dead, 252 seriously injured, and economic losses in crores. Survivors and families of victims continue to grapple with the trauma, as highlighted by poignant testimonials.

Recalling the tragic incident mother of the victim mourned death of her son “Today is the death anniversary of my son who I toiled so hard to bring up. He would have been 35 today, I am extremely upset. All my sons have passed. He promised me as a child that he would study well and take good care of me.”

Rangaraj, a survivor facing physical and financial scars, recounts his experience of being caught in two bomb blasts and the ongoing pain he endures. Despite multiple surgeries over 25 years, financial constraints hinder his access to necessary medical treatment, serving as a reminder of the long-lasting impact on survivors’ lives. while speaking he mentioned that, “The blasts occurred in a Muslim-dominated area, but eerily, no one was present when the explosions transpired. It was as if they had prior knowledge. We behaved and worked with them as if we were family.”

Journalist Mani during a interview recounting the traumatic experience of covering the terrorist attack in Coimbatore describing it as the most catastrophic event he has ever witnessed and , a day etched into his memory, he narrates the tense atmosphere marked by anti-Muslim and anti-DMK sentiments. Focusing on M. Karunanidhi, the then Chief Minister, he highlights the gravity of the situation, with L.K. Advani personally inspecting the aftermath.

Mani details the sequence of events, noting that the blasts unfolded during CP Radhakrishnan’s election campaign at RS Puram. The coordinated bombings occurred at various locations from 3:50 PM to 10:30 PM, claiming 58 lives and injuring over 200. Hospitals were not spared, resulting in the tragic deaths of medical staff and patients.

The journalist visited the blast site the next day, witnessing a grim scene with bloodstains serving as a haunting reminder. The diverse hiding places for bombs, from vehicles to bags, schools, and public places, added to the shocking nature of the attack. Drawing parallels with the 1993 Mumbai bombings, Mani emphasizes the national significance of the Coimbatore serial bomb blasts.

Survivors and families of victims strongly oppose the release of the convicted terrorists responsible for the Coimbatore blasts. Their steadfast conviction is fueled by the profound suffering they’ve endured, and they vehemently wish to prevent others from experiencing a similar fate. The enduring physical and emotional scars serve as a poignant testament to the lasting impact of the Coimbatore blasts on their lives.

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Major Land Owners In India: Govt Of India, The Catholic Church & The Waqf Board

India, despite being the world’s 7th largest country by land area, possesses only 2.4% of the total land area, emphasizing the need for strategic land management. The Indian Government stands as the largest landowner, with the Government Land Information System (GLIS) indicating ownership of at least 15,531 square km of land.

In India, the intricacies of land ownership hold substantial sway over the economic landscape. Surprisingly, entities like the Catholic Church and Waqf have emerged as significant landowners, reshaping the dynamics of property possession. As of 2017, this religious institution, with its extensive network as trusts and charitable societies, stands as the second and third largest non-agricultural landowner in the country, trailing only behind the Government of India.

Recent land conflicts in Nagaland spotlight the imperative need for transparent communication and collaboration between the Catholic Church and local communities to establish fair land management practices. Despite being a religious institution, the Catholic Church’s impact on landownership is substantial.

Church Properties: Unveiling The Catholic Church’s Extensive Land Portfolio

Christians constitute roughly 2.3% of India’s population (census 2011) Contrary to expectations of real estate magnates dominating land ownership, it is the Catholic Church of India that boasts an extensive property portfolio. Functioning as a conglomerate of various trusts and charitable societies to spread Christianity in India, the Catholic Church employs over 50,000 religious sisters, making it the largest non-governmental employer in the country. With an estimated value between 50,000 to 100,000 crore rupees, the Church’s vast land holdings, acquired through the Indian Churches Act of 1927, have been a subject of legal debates.

The Church’s influence extends beyond urban areas, impacting small villages where its religious institutions become central to local life. Historical roots, legal debates, challenges, and controversies surround the Catholic Church’s land ownership, prompting discussions on transparency and legal frameworks.

Waqf Properties: Exploring The Islamic Religious Trust’s Land Holdings

Meanwhile Muslims constitute roughly 14.2% of India’s population (census 2011), contribute significantly to the nation’s diverse religious landscape. Waqf boards, established under the Waqf Act, 1954, manage Islamic religious places and are free from state interference. These boards, with more than 610,000 immovable properties, own substantial land across various states, making them the third-largest landowner in India. The absence of a monetary estimate adds complexity to understanding the actual value of Waqf properties.

A joint parliamentary committee report in 2009 highlighted that Waqf properties, encompassing around 6 lakh acres, rank as the third-largest landowner in India after the Defence Department and Indian Railways. Recent concerns about misuse and a lack of estimates on the monetary value of these properties have prompted legal interventions.

The situation where state governments own the lands of Hindu temples in the name of secularism, while minorities can independently enjoy the benefits and become a land-owning class promoting their religion, resembles a system reminiscent of feudalism in medieval European countries. This scenario raises concerns and is viewed as alarming.

Why we say the situation is considered alarming? Lets recall a specific incident in Tamil Nadu, a farmer attempting to sell his land was surprised to find that the registration department refused the transaction, stating that the land did not belong to him. Upon inquiry, it was revealed that the Waqf board claimed ownership. Another instance that made the news was when Waqf board claimed ownership of the entire Tiruchendurai village in Tiruchirapalli.

The extensive land holdings by religious institutions and boards raise questions about transparency, legal legitimacy, and the potential impact on India’s future land requirements. As the country strives to accommodate its growing population, estimated to require 4 to 8 million hectares of land for residential use by 2030, navigating these complexities becomes paramount. Striking a balance between development, social equity, and environmental sustainability remains a challenge, necessitating strategic land governance and comprehensive regulatory measures.

(With Inputs From OpIndia)

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Calling Out Those Mocked PM Modi With Vishwaguru Jibes But Went Mute After Qatar’s Release Of Indian Navy Veterans

In what is seen as a diplomatic success for the Narendra Modi government, Qatar released the eight former Indian Navy personnel who were facing spying charges. The Qatari Emir’s equation with Modi and backdoor diplomacy, led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, played key roles. Legal assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs further contributed, with a possible change of mind in Qatar after Modi’s meeting with the Qatari Emir in December last year.

After a year-long trial, a Qatari court sentenced them to death on 26 October 2023. The Indian government mounted a legal challenge and engaged in proactive diplomacy, with the release announcement supervised by PM Modi. The veterans thanked Modi, stating their return was possible due to his personal intervention. They were employees of Qatar-based Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, owned by Khamis Al Ajami, a retired squadron leader of the Royal Air Force of Oman.

How Congress Mocked

The Modi government’s “alleged” failure to secure the release of eight Indian Navy veterans facing death sentences in Qatar was blown up by the Congress and its supporters as if it had cast a “shadow” on India’s diplomatic prowess. They claimed that despite Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on fostering robust international relations, particularly with Islamic nations, the death sentence was a glaring vulnerability in India’s diplomatic influence.

They argued that it exposed a gap between the government’s claims of being a global leader and the actual “effectiveness” of its diplomatic efforts. The news of the death sentence back in October 2023 became a focal point for criticism on social media, particularly from India’s liberal ecosystem, raising questions about the government’s handling of such sensitive international issues. 

Here are some of their comments from October 2023. But, after the announcement of the release of all 8 veterans was received with absolute silence from the same detractors. 

Mallikarjun Kharge

Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge back in April 2023 was quick to call the Modi government meek and also said their “meek surrender exposed their tall claims of making India a Vishwaguru”.

He also added, India & Qatar celebrate 50th year of Diplomatic Ties in 2023. Indians are Qatar’s largest expatriate community. @narendramodi ji, calls Qatari counterpart to extend wishes on FIFA World Cup, but can’t intervene to save the precious lives of our bravehearts! Nationalism?”

However, there is no message on the release of the Navy veterans.

Kapil Sibal

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal was also quick to poke Modi with the Vishwaguru jibe when the news of the death sentence broke out. However, as expected, there is no sign of any positive words for the same Vishwaguru who personally intervened to bring back the Indian Navy veterans to safety. 

Manish Tewari

Congress MP Manish Tewari had complained that his question regarding the death sentence to the Indian Navy veterans was disallowed. Well, he must have got his answer now.

How Congress Supporters And Islamist Zubair Mocked

The Congress ecosystem is such that they pounce on the Modi government at every single opportunity to pinpoint mistakes. Here are a few of them:

Sumanth Raman

Political commentator Sumanth Raman ensured he would frequently taunt the government with the Vishwaguru jibe. When the death sentence was announced, he again taunted the government over it. 

After so much mocking, once the news of the release came out, Sumanth Raman did put out a congratulatory post but for EAM S Jaishankar and not Modi – despite the fact that the Navy veterans themselves were quoted saying it was PM Modi who personally intervened in securing their release.

‘Deshbhakt’ Akash Banerjee

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

He deleted this post and made the said video private!

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

He also quietly points to an LNG deal signed between India and Qatar was probably the reason for the negotiation power we had. Well, Akash, you are wrong. The deal signed was an extension/renewal of an existing agreement. 

Mohammed Zubair

The self-styled fact-checker also taunted Prime Minister Modi when the news about the death sentence broke out. He wrote, 

However, he has not opened his zippered mouth after the release of the veterans. 

Other Opposition Members Who Mocked

Will the parties in the opposition leave any chance to mock the government? No, they won’t. Here are a few examples.

Owaisi

AIMIM leader, Asaduddin Owaisi had claimed that he had raised the issue about the Navy veterans back in April 2023 and after the death sentence announcement, he questioned PM Modi to prove that Islamic countries loved him and to bring our people back. Well, he did! However, Owaisi forgot to thank PM Modi and has not posted anything related to the release.

Saket Gokhale

“Journalist” turned Trinamool Congress RS MP had also mocked the Modi government using the Vishwaguru jibe and accused the government of not taking cognisance of his letter to the EAM S Jaishankar. Well, things do take time but the Modi government brought back India’s people home. 

Here are some more great “patriots” questioning the Vishwaguru status of India and PM Modi.

From the above instances, it is clear that the concern of Congress and its lackeys was not about the plight of the Indian Navy officers but to target PM Modi to satiate their political itch.

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8th Century Kotravai Sculpture Discovered In Pilrampattu Village Near Ulundurpettai

Historian Raj Panneerselvam, accompanied by Aruppukkottai Sridhar and Thamarai Kannan, embarked on a riveting research expedition to Ulundurpettai in Kallakurichi district, driven by reports of an extraordinary find: a sculpture uncovered in the fields of Pilrampattu village near Neivanai.

Nestled amidst the verdant fields of Pilrampattu, just north of the Sesha river and sheltered by surrounding trees, lay a remarkable slab stone sculpture. Standing at about 5 feet in height and 4 feet in width, this stunning artwork depicted a female figure adorned with eight arms, unmistakably hailing from the Pallava period.

Upon meticulous examination and cleaning, experts discerned distinctive features, including a locally styled crown atop an oval-faced visage, adorned with thick lips and bhadra kundalams in both ears. The sculpture was bedecked with intricate ornaments—a string-like necklace, a chest girdle, shoulder bracelets, and arm bands adorning all eight arms.

The sculpture wielded various symbolic objects, including a discus, a sword, a bell, a conch, a bow, and a shield, each held with precision and purpose. Layers of bangles adorned its arms, while a trident and a lion graced its right side, a reindeer stood on its left, and soldiers flanked its feet, underscoring its regal presence.

Dating back approximately 1200 years, this Kotravai sculpture exuded timeless grace and power, serving as a poignant testament to ancient craftsmanship and spirituality. Despite the passage of centuries, it remained steadfast in its role as the guardian deity of prosperity, a timeless sentinel amidst the fields of Pilrampattu.

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BJP TN President Annamalai Files Complaint With DVAC Against DMK Min Gandhi Alleging Corruption In Pongal Free Veshti And Sarees

Recently,Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president K Annamalai posted on his official X handle that the Department of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in Tamil Nadu has officially recognized his complaint regarding corruption allegations against DMK Minister R. Gandhi who is the Textiles and Handlooms Minister. Annamalai provided supporting evidence related to corruption in the distribution of Pongal sarees and dhotis. He expressed hope for an impartial investigation to be conducted promptly, leading to the timely apprehension of those involved in corruption.

Annamalai stated in his statement that, “Under the DMK Govt, corruption has become the order of the day. On the 6th of February 2024, we exposed the monumental corruption that has taken place in the Free Dhoti Scheme & the involvement of DMK Minister Thiru Gandhi in the same. Today, with all the supporting evidence, @BJP4TamilNadu has filed a complaint with the Department of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption. We hope an unbiased investigation will be carried out and the corrupt will be booked at the earliest“.

In the formal complaint dated 10 February 2024, submitted by K. Annamalai and directed to Tr. Abhay Kumar Singh, Director General of the Police Department of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption in Chennai stated that there was significant corruption within the Handloom & Textiles Department, specifically implicating DMK Minister Gandhi and accused him of peddling wrong information in the public.

“The Handloom & Textiles Department, has been instrumental in supplying Free Dhoti and Sarees to ration card holders during the Pongal festival every year. Ever since the DMK came to power, there has always been a lag either in the procurement of yarn on time or in the settlement of payment to handloom owners. This year, Thiru Gandhi has wilfully manipulated the production method of free dhoti and sarees for his personal gains.”, Annamalai said.

He said that the DMK government ordered the manufacture of 1.68 Crore Dhoti and 1.68 Crore Sarees, with a government order dated 22 October 2021, adding that while it has been a practice to use Polycot material for Free Dhoti & Sarees since 2003, the order stipulates that only the Warp in Dhotis must be Cotton, with the Weft potentially being Polyester.

Annamalai pointed out that the South Indian Textile Research Association report on a sampled Dhoti (Stamp number: SA2-920) revealed that only 22% of the Warp was cotton and 68% was polyester, contradicting Minister Gandhi’s claims.

He also gave a detailed break up estimating the amount of corruption involved.

Cotton yarn is priced at ₹320 per kg, while the tendered procurement rate is ₹160. Polyester, which ranges from ₹90 to ₹110 per kg, was allegedly used. The Textile Minister is accused of a corruption amounting to 60 Crore Rupees in the Free Dhoti procurement alone, with the corruption amount in Free Sarees yet to be determined.

The letter urges the Department of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption to conduct a thorough investigation based on the enclosed documents, including the government order and the textile research association’s test report. It calls for filing a case and appropriate action against Minister Gandhi for his alleged corruption with enclosing Government order from the Department of Handlooms & Textile vide reference number 20758/2021/P1 dated 22.10.2021 and the Test Report number N2306248 Dated 31.01.2024″

On 6 February 2024, as part of his “En Mann En Makkal” padayatra, Annamalai visited the Ranipet Assembly Constituency and leveled accusations of corruption against Tamil Nadu Handloom Minister, Gandhi. Annamalai claimed that Minister Gandhi, despite his name’s significance, was allegedly engaged in a sophisticated form of corruption related to the distribution of Pongal sarees and veshti (dhotis). According to Annamalai, Minister Gandhi was reputed for soliciting commissions from weavers and workers involved in the production of veshti and sarees, earning him the nickname “Commission Gandhi.”

 

Announcing on his official social media handle, Annamalai shared that a sample of the dhoti distributed during the Pongal collection was sent to the Coimbatore-based textile research center South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) in Coimbatore for testing. Shockingly, the results indicated that 78% of the dhoti was made from polyester, while only 22% comprised cotton. Annamalai expressed concern about a significant reduction in production costs and widespread corruption.

 

Online users rejoiced as yet another DMK minister in Tamil Nadu faces corruption charges. Currently, the former excise minister, who now serves as a minister without portfolio, has been detained and denied bail 17 times by the court. Additionally, K Ponmudi, the former Higher Education minister, is grappling with corruption allegations. This development is part of the BJP’s efforts to expose corruption within the DMK party and the family, with three segments of corruption audio recordings released thus far in 2G scam case.

 

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Qatar Releases Indian Navy Veterans; Shuts Up The Likes Of Mohammed Zubair Who Questioned India’s Power

India achieved a diplomatic victory and successful resolution through back-channel negotiations as eight veteran Indian Navy officers and sailors, previously detained in the Gulf country of Qatar on charges of alleged espionage in the Al Dahra Global Case, safely returned to India.

In August 2022, the intelligence agency in Qatar apprehended Indian nationals working for the private company Al Dahra on suspicions of espionage. At that time, neither Qatar nor India publicly disclosed any formal charges. Subsequently, the Qatari authorities accused these individuals of spying on a submarine, leading to their imprisonment in the same month.

In March of the following year, the trial of the navy veterans commenced in compliance with Qatari law, with official charges being filed against them. In October 2023, the Court of First Instance in Qatar issued death sentences to the eight men. Expressing deep shock, the Government of India pledged to provide consular and legal assistance, exploring all possible avenues to secure the release of the veterans. In response, the Indian government lodged an appeal against the death sentences in a higher court in Qatar in November 2023. The Qatari court accepted India’s appeal against the death penalty, signaling a review of the case.

During the COP-28 summit in Dubai on 1 December 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani influenced a change in the Qatari authorities’ position on the death sentences. Two days after this meeting, the Indian ambassador to Qatar obtained the first consular access to meet the eight imprisoned Indians. Subsequently, an appellate court in Qatar commuted the death sentences to prison terms for the eight Indian veterans. Doha finally released all eight veterans of the Indian Navy, with seven of them returning to India on 12 February 2024.

How Indian Navy veterans their families learnt about release from Qatar jail

(Timeline Credit: Firstpost)

 The eight Indian Navy veterans are Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh.

Bilateral Trade And Diplomacy

In 1973, India and Qatar established diplomatic relations. During a visit by Emir Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in March 2015, under the leadership of the present NDA-led Narendra Modi government, five Memoranda of Understanding were signed to facilitate cooperation across diverse domains. Additionally, an agreement addressing the repatriation of prisoners was reached. According to this accord, individuals convicted and sentenced for a crime in either India or Qatar can be repatriated to their respective home countries to complete the remainder of their prison terms.

During the blockade imposed by Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE on Qatar over alleged support for Islamists and Iran, Qatar faced pressure to meet the Anti-Terror Quartet’s demands. Although admitting to aiding groups like the Muslim Brotherhood, Qatar denied supporting terror organizations like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. In 2017, neighboring countries closed land and sea borders, disrupting Qatar’s food imports, and prompting the establishment of the India Qatar Express Service to alleviate the food crisis. India and Qatar also formed joint business ventures to enhance Qatar’s agricultural resources. Recently, India signed a $78 billion LNG deal with Qatar, extending imports till 2048 at lower rates, contributing to PM Modi’s vision of making India a “gas-based economy” and increasing natural gas’s share to 15% in the primary energy basket by 2030. The deal is expected to save $6 billion for India. Key exports between the two nations include LPG, chemicals, petrochemicals, and various commodities, highlighting the growing economic ties.

Criticism Gone Wrong, Only Silence Persists

On 6 April 2023, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh raised questions about the Indian government’s alleged inability to facilitate the return of retired Navy personnel detained in Qatar. In a social media post, he shared a lengthy statement, expressing concern over the prolonged detention despite the special relationship between India and Qatar. Ramesh questioned why the government had not been able to clarify the case details or provide reassurance to the ex-naval personnel and their families. He also raised the possibility of the Prime Minister’s reluctance to pressure Qatar due to the country’s significant investment in Adani Electricity Mumbai through its sovereign wealth fund. The statement urged the government to explain to the families and the public why the ex-servicemen were being treated this way. Will the Congress now recognize the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in the release and issue a press statement? Sensationalizing a critical issue for political gains is regrettable for the grand old party.

Upon the veterans being sentenced to death, Mohammed Zubair of Alt News posted a sarcastic message on X expressing satisfaction, underscoring the Prime Minister’s statement referring to Qatar as his “second home.” It’s worth noting that Zubair had actively participated in a contentious campaign against former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma during diplomatic tensions between India and Qatar. The latter demanded an apology from India over remarks related to Prophet Muhammad, though the actual situation revealed a different reality. The MK Stalin-led DMK government of Tamil Nadu has granted the Kottai Ameer Communal Harmony Award to such propagandist and a pseudo-journalist. Moreover, he has not only stirred tensions within communities but has also escalated matters to the extent of creating friction between two nations while remaining cool with the burning fire. 

The NDA-led Narendra Modi government consistently emphasizes its commitment to nationalism, putting the nation first. A notable instance is the swift return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman to India, just 58 hours after being captured by Pakistan. His courageous walk through the Attari-Wagah border on the night of February showcased India’s resilience. Now, witnessing the safe return of 8 Indian veterans through diplomatic channels is another significant victory for the country.

 (With inputs from IndiaToday

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Panchami Land Legal Battles: Madras High Court Asserts Scheduled Community Rights, Orders Annulment of Leases

Madras HC increased security in court campus after country bombs were exchanged among suspects in the Armstrong murder case. Christian shrine

The Madras High Court has mandated the annulment of land leases for those occupying Panchami land in Ariyalur, affirming that ‘Panchami land designated for scheduled communities cannot be utilised by other communities.’

The government originally allocated 1.12 acres of Panchami land to the grandfather of Kamaraj from Periyanagalur village in Ariyalur district. However, Kamaraj’s grandfather sold this land to a non-scheduled individual in 1963. Subsequently, the land changed hands multiple times from 2009 to 2021. In response, Kamaraj filed a petition with the district collector and other authorities, urging the cancellation of these sales agreements and the recovery of the Panchami land.

Faced with inaction on his petition, Kamaraj escalated the matter by filing a case in the Madras High Court, seeking an order for the concerned authorities to address his grievances. Justice P. Velmurugan presided over the hearing, with Advocate D. Gnana Banu representing the petitioner. The judge’s ruling stipulated that entering into an agreement to sell Panchami land allocated to a Scheduled Caste community to a non-Scheduled Caste is illegal, and such land cannot be converted.

The authorities were censured for their failure to monitor the situation, leading to the conversion of the land into residential plots and subsequent construction by various individuals. Upon learning of this development in 2022, the petitioner took legal action. The government has yet to respond to the case.

Documents obtained by the petitioner through the Right to Information Act unequivocally establish the land in question as Panchami land, designated for the Scheduled Caste community. The court stressed that this land cannot be used by other communities, and the government lacks the authority to alter its categorisation. Consequently, the judge ruled in favor of recovering the land from its current occupants, canceling land titles, and instructing the government to register it as Panchami land in the revenue records for allocation to eligible landless individuals.

Murasoli Land Case

It is noteworthy to revisit the Murasoli land case at this juncture. On 4 January 2024, the Madras High Court, under Justice SM Subramaniam, directed the DMK government to provide revenue documents related to the Murasoli Trust’s land in the Panchami land case. The Trust, representing DMK, aimed to restrain the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) from hearing a complaint by Tamil Nadu BJP Secretary R Srinivasan. The government, on 5 January 2024, countered Panchami land claims, stating the Murasoli office land belongs to Anjugam Publications. The High Court, on 10 January 2024, directed NCSC to issue a new summons, invalidating prior ones. The judge urged an unbiased inquiry considering TN government documents and BJP’s complaint. The court emphasised the commission’s duty to investigate Panchami land issues and dismissed pleas to annul the previous summons. BJP leader K Annamalai called on DMK to cooperate with the investigation, emphasising their legal struggle to recover Panchami lands.

(with inputs from Dinamalar)

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Chaos At Kilambakkam Continues, DMK Transport Min Says Plying Buses Past Midnight Is Not Safe

Over the past few days, Kilambakkam Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus (KCBT) has witnessed growing public discontent and protests due to the ongoing issue of operating a restricted number of buses. This has resulted in prolonged waiting periods, and with each passing day, the situation is intensifying, people are increasingly finding themselves stranded and facing inconvenience in their efforts to travel to their hometowns.

The demonstrations of ordinary citizens at the bus stand and GST road gained extensive coverage on various news channels through the night, notably on the DMK-affiliated Sun TV. The events were also widely circulated on social media with a hashtag trending #KilambakkamBusTerminus. However, when ministers visited KCBT, they downplayed the situation, asserting that there were no genuine concerns. During the subsequent press conference, they casually dismissed the protests as a supposed conspiracy orchestrated by opposition parties and some agitated omnibus owners.

Following the visit, Transport Minister SS Sivasankar and Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department Minister PK Sekar Babu held a press briefing to elaborate on the situation.

There is a favorable situation which will definitely bring the omnibus station into use by the end of April. Therefore, we are informing you that the Omnibus bus stand will be fully completed by April and facilities will be provided to park the omnibuses“. – Minister Sekhar Babu said.

Transport Minister SS Sivasankar said “For the past two days, the Leader of the Opposition and some other party leaders have been spreading unnecessary rumors about the Kilambakkam Bus Stand and trying to create an appearance that the regular buses are not running. After the inauguration of Kilambakkam Kalaingar Centenary Bus Station, 20% of the buses are operated from the Madhavaram bus stand and 80% of the buses are from our Kilambakkam bus stand out of 100%. Rumours are being spread unnecessarily that some buses have already arrived and running are not running today.”

“Next, there was a problem that the bus did not come on these two days. It happened 12 o’clock and 1 o’clock in the middle of the night. In the evening, there is no such problem, regular buses are running and the people who come on the bus are leaving. Whether it is Koyambedu or Kilambakkam, there are only very few buses running after 11:30 PM at night. In other words, buses run only to Trichy and other buses will not be available. Why because it is not safe for those who are going to travel long distances to go beyond that time. Running buses from 12 o’clock till 4 o’clock means that it is not safe when traveling in NH where the traffic of lorries is heavy is a time-honored practice. But after twelve o’clock a hundred or two hundred people come, stand, and make this trouble, it seems they are doing it with some intention,” he further said.

Later during the press conference, he explained omnibus owners had approached the High Court and requested to run buses from Koyambedu. During that hearing, the judge directed to accept certain requests of the owners and issued direction to Transport department. Until Mudichur omnibus bus stand establishes they can carry on from their own bus depots and various pickup and drop points and also said that some omnibus stand owners were misguiding the judgement and twisting it as Koyambedu has reopened again and also blamed some omnibus owners that by creating fake news that government bus facility low in Kilambakkam so that the passengers will come to them.

Later during the press briefing, it was revealed that Omni bus owners had approached the high court, seeking permission to operate buses from Koyambedu. In the hearing of the two parties’ arguments, the judge directed the acceptance of certain requests from the owners. The judge issued instructions to the Transport department, allowing the bus owners to continue operating from their own depots, pickup, and drop points until the establishment of the Mudichur Omni Bus Stand. Additionally, he cautioned against misinformation, stating that some omnibus owners were misinterpreting the judgment to suggest that Koyambedu had reopened. Furthermore, he accused certain omnibus owners were spreading fake news about the government bus facility being inadequate in Kilambakkam, presumably to attract passengers to their services.

 After the briefing, when reporters questioned the ministers, they responded with anger, issuing threats and displaying disrespectful behavior. They spoke in singular disrespectfully, attempting to deter sharp questions from the journalists.

A reporter questioned, “People say traveling to Kilambakkam there is only one bus in an hour?” Immediately Transport Minister SS Sivasankar angrily replied, “Oh! People are saying, did you confirm it? Come let’s go, we will confirm it, let’s see.”

Immediately HR&CE minister Minister PK Sekar Babu jumped into the conversation saying, ” You ask us in a blaming tone… What can we do if question us in a blaming tone? 

Minister Sivasankar continued, “We are not accusing all the people.”

The reporter sadly said “Sir, the protest is happening for three days, for a day it’s okay to say a planned conspiracy but it is happening for 3 days.

Minister Sivasankar replied “On what time did it happen, tell me yourself, do you like only if Annamalai speaks?

Immediately HR&CE minister Minister PK Sekar Babu intervened and said, “Sir you should speak like a journalist you are speaking like on stage, stop with the question (singular Tone)… how many have asked questions, we are answering them all. You’re talking continuously like you’re on stage. If you ask a question we will answer, if you talk like on stage… you are talking like on stage ask only questions, I won’t answer if you talk like that.”

The Tamil Nadu government was aware of the traffic congestion on GST Road even before the construction of KCBT. Despite recognizing the road’s limited capacity to accommodate increased traffic, the government went ahead with building the terminus. This oversight is evident on two occasions – during Pongal and now on Friday nights for the weekends and special occasions like auspicious days, when there is a higher demand for buses. The lack of adequate pre-planning and subsequent disregard for the actual situation, coupled with an unwillingness to acknowledge faults, is disheartening. Moreover, the administration’s response, including threats to journalists and protesters, and the attribution of blame to omni bus owners, reflects poorly on the state’s governance.

https://twitter.com/SaffronSurge3/status/1756562557018783963

 

 

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