NEWS DIGEST, Afternoon
12 Feb. 2019: 06 Jamadiul-II 1440:Vol:11, No:126
INDIA
CAG report: Finance Ministry violated own instructions on secret service expenditure
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/cag-report-finance-ministry-violated-own-instructions-on-secret-service-expenditure
Finance Ministry violated its own instructions in 2 cases about prior approval of CAG before concurring with re-appropriation orders for increasing funds under "Secret Service Expenditure", an audit report tabled in Lok Sabha said today.The report of the Comptroller and Auditor General for 2017-18 said Finance Ministry had stated earlier that any re-appropriation of funds, which increases the provision ‘41-Secret Service Expenditure' by 25% or more of original provision in the grant, should be done only with the prior approval of CAG."The audit observed two instances where Ministry of Finance violated its own orders regarding prior approval of CAG before re-appropriation," the report said.It said total original provision as a whole under ‘41-Secret Service Expenditure' pertaining to police under Home Ministry for 2017-18 was ₹163.65 crore.The report said that Home Ministry issued a re-appropriation order of ₹150 crore in January last year to increase the provision under the above object head with the approval of Finance Ministry.Citing another instance, the report said the original provision pertaining to 'cabinet' under Home Ministry was only ₹5 crore. It said the Home Ministry issued a re-appropriation order on February 7 last year of ₹1.25 crore to increase the provision under object head ‘41-Secret Service Expenditure' with approval of Finance Ministry.In its reply to CAG, ministry said that it is the responsibility of the department concerned to get the approval of CAG before re-appropriation."The reply is not acceptable, as it is the responsibility of Ministry of Ministry of Finance to ensure that the increase in secret service expenditure over the Budget provision concurs with the prior approval of the CAG," said the report.IANS
Times Now accesses the inside details of the CAG Rafale report
https://www.timesnownews.com/videos/times-now/india/times-now-accesses-the-inside-details-of-the-cag-rafale-report/23350
Times Now accesses the inside details of the CAG Rafale report
https://www.timesnownews.com/videos/times-now/india/times-now-accesses-the-inside-details-of-the-cag-rafale-report/23350
CAG Submits Rafale Report to Govt But Price of Jets Remains Masked:Sources
https://www.news18.com/news/india/rafale-cag-report-not-on-parliaments-revised-list-of-business-for-tomorrow-price-of-jets-to-be-masked-say-sources-2032997.html?ref=hp_top_pos_3
Anil Ambani Visited French Defence Officials Just Before Rafale Deal: Leaked Email
https://thewire.in/government/anil-ambani-visited-french-defence-officials-just-before-rafale-deal-leaked-email-suggests
New Delhi: A leaked email put out by Congress today suggest that businessman Anil Ambani visited then French defence minister Jean-Yves Les Drian’s office in Paris in late March 2015, a fortnight before PM Narendra Modi announced the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from France.According to the contents of the email, this meeting was with Le Drian’s special advisor Jean Claude Mallet, his industry advisor Christophe Salomon and another technical advisor, Geoffrey Bouquot.While The Wire could not independently verify the authenticity of this email — questionnaires sent out to the parties involved last weekend did not elicit any response — the developments appear to have also been independently verified by Indian Express on Tuesday.The email itself appears to be a back-and-forth between officials at European defence company Airbus which references a conversation with Le Drian’s office.Ambani’s meeting with the French defence minister’s office is described as being “confidential and planned as you can imagine with very short notice”. Email also notes that Ambani wished to work with Airbus Helicopters on both commercial helicopters and defence in general.Another point the Congress Party has taken up as a point of attack against the Modi government is that Ambani reportedly mentioned a MoU that was “in preparation and the intention to sign during the PM visit”. Or in other words, Ambani was in the know before it happened.thewire
2 weeks before Rafale announcement, Ambani met French Defence officials
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/two-weeks-before-rafale-announcement-anil-ambani-met-french-defence-officials-5579069/
PM should be booked under Official Secrets Act: Rahul Gandhi
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/book-pm-modi-under-official-secrets-act-rahul-gandhi/article26246161.ece?homepage=true
New Delhi:Congress president Rahul Gandhi has said PM Narendra Modi should be booked under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly divulging confidential defence information relating to Rafale fighter aircraft deal to industrialist Anil Ambani.Citing an e-mail, Gandhi said Ambani was already in talks with the French govt and had told them about signing of MoU days before the Rafale deal was signed."This is breach of Official Secrets Act. PM who was aware of the deal told Anil Ambani. PM is acting as Anil Ambani's middleman... This nothing less than treason,"he said..thehindu
Modi has committed treason, revealed defence secret to private entity: Rahul
http://morungexpress.com/modi-has-committed-treason-revealed-defence-secret-to-private-entity-rahul/
Minority status to AMU: SC refers to 7-judge bench
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/minority-status-to-amu-sc-refers-to-7-judge-bench-5580356/
New Delhi:The Supreme Court today referred to 7-judge bench the issue of determining the correctness of minority status granted to AMU.A 3-judge bench headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi referred the matter to the larger bench for defining the parameters for grant of minority status to educational institutions.The then UPA-led centre government had filed an appeal against the 2006 verdict of the Allahabad High Court holding that the varsity was not a minority institution. The varsity administration had also filed a separate plea against the high court verdict on the issue.BJP government at the Centre had in 2016 told the SC that it will withdraw the appeal filed by the erstwhile UPA govt.It said a five-judge Constitution bench in 1968 in Aziz Basha case had held that AMU was a “central university” and not a minority institution.After the 1968 verdict, AMU (Amendment) Act, 1981 came into force.PTI
SC reserves verdict on plea seeking fresh probe into murder of ex-Gujarat Home Minister Pandya
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/haren-pandya-murder-case-former-gujarat-home-minister-sc-verdict-5580296/
The Supreme Court today reserved its verdict on a plea seeking fresh probe into the murder of ex Gujarat Home Minister Haren Pandya in the then Narendra Modi govt. Pandya was shot dead on March 26, 2003, by 2 unidentified assailants while he was in his car outside Ahmedabad’s Law Garden.A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra reserved the order after senior advocate Shanti Bhushan, appearing for NGO CPIL, and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta concluded their arguments. Bhushan said that several new facts have emerged recently which required fresh investigation into the case.In the plea, NGO has stated that “some startling information that has recently come to light and has been extensively reported by the media regarding Pandya’s murder, information which was never investigated into by the investigating agency, CBI”.The petitioners in the murder case had earlier alleged that Azam Khan, a witness in the encounter of gangster Sohrabuddin Sheikh, had told a Mumbai court during a trial that:“Sheikh had told him that Pandya was murdered as a part of a contract killing…” involving a senior IPS officer. According to Khan, probing officer had refused to record the statement back in 2010.indianexpress
‘Sit in corner till court rises’: Ex- interim CBI director Rao guilty of contempt of court
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/sc-holds-former-interim-cbi-director-nageswara-rao-guilty-of-contempt-of-court-fined-rs-1-lakh/
New Delhi:Former CBI interim director M Nageswara Rao was found guilty of contempt of court and fined Rs 1 lakh by the Supreme Court today for shunting out a CBI officer who was in charge of the Muzaffarpur shelter abuse probe despite a freeze on transfers. Additional Legal Advisor S Bhasuran was also held guilty for the same offence and imposed Rs 1 lakh fine. The 2 were sentenced till the rising of the court.“Go to one corner of court and sit down till court rises,” a bench led by CJI Ranjan Gogoi ordered.Coming down heavily on Rao for his “brazen” attitude, the court said, “Rao was aware of SC’s directions that CBI officer cannot be transferred without its consent. If this is not contempt of court then what is?”Rao who had personally appeared in the court today tendered an “unconditional” apology in the court. The bench also comprising of Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna said, “Rao has put himself at mercy of the court and has had an unblemished career as a police officer. Even if we accept his apology, his career record will remain blemished, as he has acted in contempt by his own admission.”indianexpress
Govt sought legal opinion on changes to sedition law, told necessary, go by Supreme Court
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/government-sought-legal-opinion-on-changes-to-sedition-law-told-necessary-go-by-supreme-court-5579092/
New Delhi:A legal opinion sought by Centre on a Law Commission report on British era sedition law (Section 124-A of IPC) has stated that “Section 124A sedition as interpreted by the Supreme Court is necessary”. In short, it is unlikely that IPC section on sedition is diluted or scrapped. In Sept.2016, the Supreme Court had reiterated that a larger bench had already provided necessary safeguards that should be followed by all authorities, and “every magistrate is bound by what we said in the Kedar Nath (case)”.It was referring to the order in Kedar Nath Singh vs State of Bihar, 1962, in which a Constitution Bench had ruled in favour of the Constitutional validity of Section 124A, but had added a vital caveat: that a person could be prosecuted for sedition only if his acts caused “incitement to violence or intention or tendency to create public disorder or cause disturbance of public peace”.indian express
J&K govt seeks adjournment of hearing on Art 35A
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-govt-seeks-adjournment-of-hearing-on-art-35a/story-s21HFC4He7s7l0WK9ampKK.html
J&K govt has sought adjournment of hearing on the contentious Article 35A case, which was expected to be taken up by the Supreme Court this week. M Shoeb Alam, the standing counsel of the J&K govt in the Supreme Court, filed a note before top court’s secretary general, requesting postponement of the hearing. The matter was listed for Feb.12.In the letter, Alam submitted that the state “will be seeking adjournment in the matter because there is presently no elected government in Jammu and Kashmir and the State is under President’s Rule”.“The present matter involves a sensitive issue regarding a challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution of India. A short reply has been filed by the State of J&K in the lead matter and notices have not been issued in the other petitions. It will therefore be requested that the matter may kindly be heard when an elected government is in place,” the letter reads. Article 35A, incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of J&K and denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision also applies to children of such women marrying non-state subjects.HT
‘Division on Communal Lines’, ‘Use of Musharraf Formula’: Storm Over Divisional Status For Ladakh
https://www.news18.com/news/politics/division-on-communal-lines-use-of-musharraf-formula-storm-over-separate-division-status-for-ladakh-2032357.html
Jammu: Soon after the governor of J&K, Satya Pal Malik, approved Ladakh as a separate division, a new political storm has started brewing in the state with some people looking it as a discriminatory decision “purely for electoral gains”. While some see it as a larger plan to make Ladakh a “union territory”, others are looking at it as a division of the state on “communal” lines.Though all the political parties in the valley welcomed the decision, many of them sought a similar status for Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal areas of the state.However, there is also a division among the people of Ladakh.With about 87,000sqkm area, Ladakh has 2 districts—Kargil and Leh — and is one of the most sparsely populated areas in the state. This “cold-desert” has a population of about 284,000 people according to the 2011 survey — 39% Buddhists, 46% Muslims and 12% Hindus. Kargil is 204km northeast of J&K’s summer capital, Srinagar, and has a predominantly Muslim population. About 230 km east is the Leh, largest town in the area where most people practice Buddhism.The initial rift is between Kargil and Leh as the latter has been designated as the headquarters of the newly created division.Politicians from Kargil threatened a mass agitation if the administration did not review its decision of setting up all the offices in Leh. news18
Ladakh division: J&K guv’s administration asks people opposing headquarters at Leh to be patient
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ladakh-division-jammu-kashmir-governor-administration-headquarters-leh-satya-pal-malik-5580274/
J&K administration today asked all those opposing setting up of divisional headquarters of Ladakh at Leh to be patient, saying that “everyone’s interest will be taken care of as that is the objective of the govt”.“Governor and the govt have taken note of the sentiments of the people of Kargil, following the decision to create a new administrative/revenue division of Ladakh,” an official spokesperson said. The creation of the division has been a long-standing need of the people of Ladakh which has two districts- Kargil and Leh. indianexpress
PDP leader wants back remains of Afzal Guru, Bhat
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pdp-leader-wants-back-remains-of-afzal-guru-maqbool-bhat/story-qfo4OKHhVQ1KAlsmN5ajSI.html
Srinagar:A leader of former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti’s PDP on Monday wrote to PM Narendra Modi seeking the remains of separatist JKLF founder, Maqbool Bhat, and 2001 Parliament attack convict, Afzal Guru.Bhat was hanged at Delhi’s Tihar jail on Feb.11, 1984, for the murder of a policeman and his body was buried on the prison premises. Guru, too, was buried at Tihar after his hanging at the prison on Feb. 9, 2013. “I can with utmost responsibility say that should the Government of India decide to act upon this request [for returning the remains], the animosity of Kashmiris and their sense of alienation can be brought down by several notches,’’ said PDP leader and Rajya Sabha member, Fayaz Mir, in a letter to Modi as a shutdown was observed in Kashmir on Bhat’s 35th death anniversary. In his letter, Mir cited the demands for clemency for former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s killers. “I do not think it is appalling or disrespectful to seek the return of mortal remains of 2 Kashmiri men to their families.’’HT
Pulwama encounter: Soldier, militant wanted in Srinagar hospital firing killed in Ratnipora
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pulwama-encounter-live-updates-ratnipora-5579209/
New Delhi :A militant and a soldier were killed Tuesday in an encounter with security forces in Ratnipora area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. Police said the militant, Hilal Ahmad Rather, affiliated with Hizbul Mujahideen, was involved in the killing of 2 policemen at Srinagar’s SMSH Hospital in Feb.last year.The deceased Army man has been identified as Baljeet Singh. Another soldier was also injured in the encounter. The encounter broke out in the early hours of Tuesday after a cordon and search operation was launched in the area, following specific information about the presence of militants there. indianexpress
Tension in Jammu, passengers-students clash
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/tension-in-jammu-passengers-students-clash-highway-blocked-5579150/
Jammu :Stranded in Jammu after landslides blocked the strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway for the sixth day running, a group of Kashmir-bound passengers clashed with some local students on Monday.With tempers running high, a few people allegedly raised pro-Pakistan slogans, leading to further tension.Nearly 4,000 stranded passengers, including women and children, are stranded in Jammu for 6 days; they have been put up at General Bus Stand.Following complaints of cash crunch and health problems due to unsanitary conditions, the local admn shifted them to Mufti House, a hostel run by Auqaf Islamia, on Sunday. Trouble began on Monday when someone threw a stone at a vehicle passing by the hostel, and occupants of the vehicle alleged that the stranded passengers were behind the act.Amid tension, some passengers, already irked over administration’s failure to airlift them to Srinagar, allegedly raised pro-Pak slogans, officials said. Indianexpress
South crown prince to visit India next week; trade, energy security top on agenda
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/s-arabia-crown-prince-to-visit-india-next-week-trade-energy-security-top-on-agenda-mohammed-bin-salman-5580390/
New Delhi:Defence, trade and energy security are expected to be high on the agenda when Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Defence Minister Mohammed bin Salman holds talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his two-day visit to India next week.Accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials and leading Saudi businessmen, Prince Salman will arrive India on Feb.19 on his maiden trip to the country, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement here.During the visit, Crown Prince will hold talks with PM Modi on wide range of issues of mutual interest. He will also call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.PTI
Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Kalyan unit organises mosque visit for city’s non-Muslims
https://www.hindustantimes.com/mumbai-news/kalyan-group-organises-mosque-visit-for-city-s-non-muslims/story-qZ7Cdb933WV2OIKCzMbDwO.html
Mumbai:Around 125 non-Muslim men visited 167-year-old Jama Masjid at Doodh Naka in Kalyan on Sunday. It is one of the oldest and largest mosques in the city.The visit was organised by Kalyan chapter of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), an Islamic reformist organisation, as part of its ‘Masjid Parichay’ initiative. The initiative aims to familiarise people with the place of worship.Most visitors had never visited a mosque.They explored the building, including the sanctorum where an imam leads prayers, water pool for performing pre-prayer ablution (wudu) and the library containing Quran and other religious texts.The visitors were guided by local Muslims. And when the sun set, they watched the muezzin recite adhaan (call to prayers) followed by a namaz performed by a large gathering of locals and believers.“A large population of our country is ignorant about mosques and how they function. Several non-Muslims are curious to learn more about these places of worship. Masjid Parichay provides such curious minds with an immersive learning experience,” said Mishal Choudhary, Kalyan president of the JIH.Wajid Ali Khan, an Islamic scholar from Aurangabad, explained to the visitors the importance of wudu, namaz and masjid.“Islam is not merely a religion, but a way of life. Hence, a mosque is more than just a place of worship. Its objective is to be a centre to resolve pressing problems facing society. It’s a shelter for the entire humanity and is open to all,” said Khan.Rajendra Ranawade, one of the visitors, said it was a great experience. “I have always respected mosques. But today I saw how the prayers are offered in a disciplined manner and how people from all sections of the society come together,” he added.Yashraj Dixit, 15, who visited the mosque with his father Abhinav, said, he learnt a lot about a different religion. hindustantimes
Parliament Budget Session: Lok Sabha passes Finance Bill, Citizenship Bill pending in RS
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/parliament-live-updates-citizenship-bill-rafale-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-5579332/
New Delhi: Both Houses have been adjourned for the day. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned following an uproar by Samajwadi Party members after party chief Akhilesh Yadav was allegedly stopped at Lucknow airport while on his way to Allahabad.While the Citizenship Bill was not tabled today in Rajya Sabha as scheduled, Lok Sabha concluded its session passing the Finance Bill, 2019 and discussing issues including tourism in India, GST. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh was likely to table the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha Tuesday. The Citizenship Bill was passed in Lok Sabha in January. Assam and other north-eastern states have been witnessing protests over the Bill that seeks to provide citizenship to religious minority groups from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh.indianexpress
This is a Criminal Act, Says Karnataka Speaker After Audio Clip Claims BJP ‘Booked’ Him for Rs 50 Crore
https://www.news18.com/news/india/this-is-a-criminal-act-says-ktaka-speaker-after-audio-clip-claims-bjp-booked-him-for-rs-50-crore-2033879.html
Bengaluru: An audio tape of Karnataka BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa’s conversation with the son of a JD(S) MLA to allegedly persuade his father to switch sides has kicked up a huge political controversy in the state. Even as the opposition BJP says a SIT won't have the power to summon MLAs, Speaker Ramesh Kumar says he takes a strong view of the fact that his name has been dragged into controversy.In audio, Yeddyurappa purportedly tells JD(S) MLA Naganagouda’s son Sharana Gouda that Speaker is on “BJP side” and has been “booked” for Rs50 crore. Kumar says he doesn’t take kindly to such aspersions being cast on him, adding that the controversy merits criminal probe.News18
Not enough in Budget for minorities: Owaisi
http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2019/feb/12/not-enough-in-budget-for-minorities-1937629.html
Hyderabad: MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has protested against the passing of the Interim Budget in Lok Sabha, citing that the allocation for Minorities, Schedule Castes, Scheduled Tribes and OBCs in it was not enough. Speaking in Lok Sabha on Monday, Hyderabad MP said that despite several government bodies documenting the backwardness of Muslims in various parameters such as education, health and employment, the budget, presented by Minister Piyush Goyal, saw a decrease in allocation for post-matric scholarship for minorities. He also questioned the usage of the `500-crore Haj Subsidy, which was abolished recently. “I myself had demanded its abolishment. But, what happened to the money?” he asked. new indian express
Owaisi: ‘If the contest becomes between Modi and Rahul, it’s not good. It gives RSS, Modi huge advantage’
https://indianexpress.com/elections/asaduddin-owaisi-if-the-contest-becomes-between-modi-and-rahul-its-not-good-it-gives-rss-modi-huge-advantage-5578935/
Modi is BJP’s PM face in 2019, who is yours: Amit Shah to ‘Mahagathbandhan’
https://indianexpress.com/elections/amit-shah-says-narendra-modi-will-be-pm-face-in-2019-elections-5579627/
New Delhi :Putting to bed speculations, BJP president Amit Shah Tuesday announced that Narendra Modi will be face of the party in the upcoming General Elections. Claiming that there was “rock-solid” support for the Prime Minister, he added that the party will consolidate its position in West Bengal and Odisha, while in UP, its number will not go down “by a single seat under any circumstance”.Shah said the Opposition’s grand alliance, made up of only state-level leaders, will not affect the BJP’s prospects. “BJP workers call me expressing concern over Mahagathbandhan. They ask me ‘kya hoga’. I tell them to remove the fear of the Mahagathbandhan from their hearts,” Shah said while addressing workers in Ahmedabad after launching ‘Mera Parivar, BJP Parivar’ campaign.indianexpress
Want court verdict on Ram temple in 24 hrs: Adityanath in UP Assembly
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/want-court-verdict-on-ram-temple-in-24-hrs-yogi-adityanath-in-up-assembly-5578968/
Lucknow :Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath hassaid that Ramjanmabhoomi is a matter related to people’s faith and respecting it, the court should give its decision on the matter within 24 hours. Speaking in the Assembly on Monday, Adityanath said that as far as the distribution of land is concerned, Allahabad High Court has already stated that the place of Ram Lala Virajman is Ramjanmabhoomi.“Those who are raising questions on a temple at Ramjanmabhoomi, I want to tell them that we have done our job and we are still doing so. Faith should be respected in Ayodhya. I thinkthere should be a decision on this within 24 hours and not an hour more than that,” he said.indianexpress
When a Mob Lynches a Person for the Food He Eats, Constitution is Lynched: Justice Chandrachud
http://www.indiatomorrow.net/eng/when-a-mob-lynches-a-person-for-the-food-he-eats-constitution-is-lynched-justice-chandrachud?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=emailemail&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Indiatomorrownet+%28IndiaTomorrow.net%29
Mumbai:In the most powerful attack on the trend of mob lynching over someone’s choice of food, Justice D. Y. Chandrachud of Supreme Court has said that lynching of a man or woman over what he or she eats is actually the lynching of the Constitution of India.“When a mob lynches a person for the food that she or he eats it is the constitution which is lynched. When we deny to human beings the power of lover for reasons of religion or caste it is the constitution which is made to weep,” said Justice Chandrachud while speaking at Justice Desai Memorial Lecture at the Bombay HC.He highlighted the diversities of the country in the background of which the Constitution was framed.IndiaTomorrow
Constitution Lynched When Person Lynched for Food He Had: Justice Chandrachud
https://www.newsclick.in/constitution-lynched-when-person-lynched-food-he-had-justice-chandrachud
Hapur lynching: SC issues notice to UP Police seeking direction for SIT probe
https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/hapur-lynching-sc-issues-notice-to-up-police-seeking-direction-for-sit-probe-119021100374_1.html
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to UP Police on a plea filed by the son of Qasim, the victim in the Hapur lynching case, seeking direction for an SIT probe under an officer from another state.The apex court also tagged the matter with earlier pending pleas.In September last year, the top court said that the investigation in the matter will be conducted under the supervision of Meerut's IG.The apex court also said that the IG Meerut will adhere and follow the court's judgment while conducting the investigation in the case.In June last year, 38-year-old Qasim, a cattle trader, was lynched to death and 65-year-old Shamsuddin was severely injured in Hapur after a group of people attacked them on suspicion of being involved in cow slaughter.ANI
‘Citizenship Amendment Bill painfully unpopular’: Bhupen Hazarika’s son slams Bill, puts Govt on notice on Bharat Ratna
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/bhupen-hazarikas-family-turns-down-bharat-ratna-in-protest-of-citizenship-bill-reports-5578903/
Guwahati :2 days after PM Narendra Modi paid tributes to Bhupen Hazarika and took a swipe at previous governments for delaying the Bharat Ratna conferred posthumously on the celebrated singer this Republic Day, Hazarika’s son Tej, protesting “painfully unpopular” Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, put the govt on notice Monday, saying the Bill was “actually undermining” his father’s “documented position” and “would in reality be in direct opposition to what Bhupenda believed in his heart of hearts”.“Bharat Ratnas and longest bridges, while necessary, will not promote the peace and prosperity of the citizens of India. Only just popular laws and foresight on the part of leadership will.Numerous media journalists are now asking me whether or not I will accept the Bharat Ratna for my father. I go on record here to answer that A), I have not received any invitation so far there is nothing to reject, and B), how the Center moves on this matter far outweighs in importance the awarding and receiving of such national recognition — a display of short-lived cheap thrills,” Tej Hazarika, who is based in the US, said.indianexpress
Protests intensify against citizenship bill in northeast; parties rush to Delhi to stall amendment
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/protests-intensify-against-citizenship-bill-in-northeast-parties-rush-to-delhi-to-stall-amendment/story-g5YSCffHStyqjHvUbrNrXM.html
Guwahati:Protests against the citizenship bill continued in the northeast states even as regional political parties rushed to New Delhi to make a last ditch effort to stall the proposed amendment, which is likely to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.In Manipur, mobile internet services have been suspended and curfew imposed in the twin districts of Imphal (East) and Imphal (West), according to police officials manning the control rooms. Manipur People against Citizenship Amendment Bill announced Feb.12 as D Day while People Alliance Manipur announced a 36-hour shutdown starting Monday. In Mizoram, civil society groups said they will intensify the protests and observe Feb.12 as black day. Normal life in Manipur and Nagaland was disrupted as outfits had announced a complete shutdown on Monday in protest against the bill.In a meeting on Jan.29, 10 regional outfits including allies of BJP,NPP,in Meghalaya,MNF in Mizoram, NDPP in Nagaland,AGP among others had passed a resolution opposing the bill. The grouping had support from the JDU and Shiv Sena.
Pakistan has Mecca, Medina for Sikhs: Imran Khan on Expanding Tourism Potential for Minorities
https://www.news18.com/news/world/imran-khan-to-expand-tourism-potential-for-minorities-says-pak-has-mecca-medina-for-sikhs-2031999.html
Dubai: Pakistan has the Mecca and Medina for the Sikhs and the country is opening up those sites for the minority community, Prime Minister Imran Khan has said.Prime Minister Khan in November last year laid the foundation stone for the corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district to facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims.Khan was in UAE on a day-long trip to take part in 7th edition of the World Government Summit on the invitation of Vice President and PM of UAE Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum."We have the Mecca and Medina of the Sikhs... and we are just opening up those sites for Sikhs," Khan said.PTI
Release Teltumbde against Rs 1 lakh bail bond if arrested: Bombay HC to Pune Police
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/release-anand-teltumbde-against-rs-1-lakh-bail-bond-if-arrested-bombay-hc-to-pune-police-5579053/
Pune:After Pune Police refused to make a statement over not arresting professor and activist Anand Teltumbde before Feb.22,Bombay High Court has directed Pune Police to release him against a bail bond of Rs 1 lakh in event of his arrest. Teltumbde has been charged under UAPA and is accused of being part of the Elgaar Parishad, held in Pune on Dec.31, 2017, and having links with the banned CPI-Maoist. HC will hear the arguments on the anticipatory bail application filed by Teltumbde on Feb. 22.On Monday, senior counsel Mihir Desai, representing Teltumbde, told the HC that Police were supposed to serve them an affidavit on Saturday, but since they received it only on Monday, they sought time to go through the affidavit. Desai said they were willing to argue on Thursday provided the protection from arrest was extended till then.indianexpress
Principal, VP quit after Gujarat college says no Jignesh Mevani event
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/principal-vp-quit-after-gujarat-college-says-no-jignesh-mevani-event-5579128/
Ahmedabad:A DAY after the management of HK Arts College in Ahmedabad declined permission to use the college auditorium for an annual function where Vadgam independent MLA Jignesh Mevani was invited as chief guest, in-charge principal of the college, Hemantkumar Shah resigned on “moral grounds”.Shah tendered his resignation to the Brahmchari Wadi trust, which runs the college. He said there has been no response from the trust. Hours later, the college’s in-charge vice-principal, Mohanbhai Parmar resigned too, citing similar reasons. While Shah, currently head of Economics dept at HK Arts College, has worked for over 15 years, Parmar has been with the college for the last decade. Both were in-charge of their respective posts for the last 4 months. Shah said: “I am a lover of an individual’s freedom and not acted as a principal of the college. I received a letter from the trustees at 4 pm Sunday) cancelling permission for today’s event. The only reason given to me for declining permission to use the auditorium was that it is due to the current political situation. But I want to ask, what is that situation?”indianexpress
PMK cadre murder case: Hindu outfits call for total shutdown today
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/pmk-cadre-murder-case-hindu-outfits-call-for-total-shutdown-today/articleshow/67949896.cms
Kumbakonam: BJP and a few Hindu outfits have decided to go ahead with their plan for a full shutdown on Tuesday, to condemn the murder of V Ramalingam, a PMK functionary from Thirubuvanam near Kumbakonam who was allegedly murdered by a group belonging to the Muslim community after he questioned them for attempting to convert dalit people into Islam.The decision comes after peace talks convened by police officials with the district-level functionaries of BJP and Hindu outfits failed.The meeting was headed by Kumbakonam revenue divisional officer, Veerasamy in which ASP Balachandran, DSP Sengamalakannan and Ramachandran and Kumbakonam and Thiruvidaimaruthur tahsildar Janakiraman and Rajeswari also participated. District BJP president Raja and representatives of Hindu Makkal Katchi, Sivasena, VHP and Hindu Munnani took part.The representatives of BJP and Hindu outfits alleged that were not satisfied with police action, despite the arrest of 9 members and walked out of the meeting, police sources said. Elaborate security has been made in Thirubuvanam and surrounding areas to avert any untoward incident.TOI
Triple talaq bill unlikely to get RS nod
https://www.thequint.com/news/hot-news/triple-talaq-bill-unlikely-to-get-rs-nod
New Delhi: Modi govt is keen to get parliamentary approval for the triple talaq bill but there is no certainty that it will clear Rajya Sabha hurdle in the remaining two days of the budget session and the measure may again be implemented through an ordinance.Opposition parties and several leaders from the Muslim community are sticking to their stand against the bill, contending there is no need for it as the instant triple talaq has been banned by the Supreme Court.Most leaders IANS spoke to also opposed the criminalisation of triple talaq and the provision of 3-year jail to the husband. Kamal Farooqui, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, termed the bill "a political gimmick" that was not needed when the practice of triple talaq itself has been struck down by the Supreme Court.IANS
Telangana: Talaq decreases but khula on rise
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/120219/telangana-talaq-decreases-but-khula-on-rise.html
Hyderabad: Number of divorces (talaq) given by Muslim men is decreasing in the state, while the number of khula (separation initiated by women) is increasing, according to statistics with the TS Wakf Board.Data with the Qazzath section of the Wakf Board showed that it had issued 882 divorce certificates in 2016, 579 in 2017 and 385 last year. The number of khula certificates issued increased from 640 in 2016 to 688 in 2017 though it fell to 597 last year. The number of marriage certificates stood at 36,055 in 2016, 36,774 in 2017 and 39,769 in 2018. Khateeb Shahi Masjid Moulana Ahsan bin Mohammed Alhamoomi said this data showed that the separation ratio in Muslim families was negligible.He said in the Sharia, men and women had the right to seek separation by following certain conditions. The main reason for the rise in khula cases was that girls were better educated.“Education is not an obstacle to conjugal life. These women are seeking separation because they feel they can live without depending on others after separation from the husband,” he said.deccan chronicle
17 Killed In Fire At Hotel In Delhi's Karol Bagh, Man Seen Jumping Off Terrace
https://www.ndtv.com/delhi-news/delhi-major-fire-breaks-out-at-hotel-arpit-in-karol-bagh-20-fire-engines-rushed-to-spot-1991984
New Delhi: 17 people, many of them sleeping guests, were killed in a fire at a hotel in central Delhi's congested Karol Bagh area early Tuesday morning. Some of the victims were charred to death and others suffocated in the poisonous fumes. A woman and a child were killed when they jumped off the fifth floor to escape the blaze, reports said.Videos recorded by witnesses showed thick smoke and flames crowning the terrace of 6-storey Hotel Arpit Palace after the fire broke out at around 4am.A person was seen dangling from the terrace and then jumping off. Police said he died.Fire could have started because of a short-circuit, reports said. Guests at the hotel that is popular with budget and business travellers, were unable to use corridors to escape because of wooden panelling,according to a fire officer.Hotel didn't have proper fire escapes. ndtv
Al Qaeda Attempting to Exploit Rising Hindu-Muslim Tensions, claims think tank: news 18
https://www.news18.com/news/india/al-qaeda-attempting-to-exploit-rising-hindu-muslim-tensions-says-report-2033385.html
New Delhi: A report put together by a leading think tank on global security issues has stated that the Al Qaeda is attempting to exploit the rising tensions between Hindus and Muslims in India. In its report titled - ‘Al Qaeda In India Subcontinent:Nucleus Of Jihad In South Asia’, Soufan Centre, which was founded by ex FBI agent Ali Soufan, said that the growing communal divide and increased incidences of violent attacks on Muslims in India has created an atmosphere of fear and exacerbated tensions between 2 religious communities.
Hindutva Leader Dhananjay Desai Violates Bail Conditions Soon After Release
https://thewire.in/law/mohsin-shaikh-murder-case-hrs-dhananjay-desai
Mumbai: While ordering the release of Hindu Rashtra Sena (HRS) leader Dhananjay Desai on Jan17, Bombay high court set stringent bail conditions. Desai, the prime accused in the four-and half-year-old murder case of IT engineer Mohsin Shaikh, was strictly prohibited from making any public appearances and running any outfits, particularly the HRS, till the end of the trial.Justice Sadhana Jadhav while granting Desai bail, observed: “Applicant shall not in any manner whatsoever involve in any public/political activities related to or organised at the behest of Hindu Rashtra Sena or even otherwise.”However, the order was violated within moments of his release from Yerwada jail on February 9.Pune roads leading to his residence from Yerwada Central Jail to Paud village were blocked for nearly an hour as his supporters gathered in large numbers of cars and bikes, chanting “Jai Shri Ram” throughout.thewire
Hyderabad: In a first, women's only clinic opens doors to pregnant women in Old City slums
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/in-a-first-womens-only-clinic-opens-doors-to-pregnant-women-in-old-city-slums/articleshow/67949777.cms
Charminar: In a first, an exclusive women’s clinic for pregnant women was opened in a mosque at Achi Reddy Nagar in Old City. A primary healthcare centre being run in the mosque now includes a clinic solely for pregnant women and is aimed at benefitting women in Old City.The healthcare centre is a joint initiative of Majid Ishaq and Helping Hand Foundation (HHF), a city-based NGO and is funded by SEED, USA, one of the leading US-based charity bodies, said Mujtaba Hasan Askari, HHF president.As part of the initiative, HHF has enrolled over 200 pregnant women from over 10 anganwadi centres spread across slums of Achi Reddy Nagar, N S Kunta, Chasma, Teegal Kunta, Sanjay Reddy Nagar, and Vatapally at the clinic. TOI
WORLD
Israel expels 50 Bedouin families for military drill
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/israel-expels-50-bedouin-families-for-military-drill/1390496
Jerusalem:Israeli army has ordered 50 Palestinian Bedouin families to leave their homes in Jordan Valley ahead of a new military drill, for the second such move in one week, according to a local Palestinian official. "50 families have received orders from the Israeli military to evacuate their homes and lands by Wednesday," Motaz Bsharat, who is responsible for monitoring Israeli settlement building in the Jordan Valley, said. He said an Israeli military force broke into Bedouin communities in the area this morning and "handed over the orders to the families to leave their homes". Almost 300 Palestinians, including 140 children, currently live in these areas. Last week,Israeli military expelled dozens of Bedouin families in the Jordan Valley for a week-long exercise. Anadolu
US politician Ilhan Omar apologises over Israel tweet
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/02/politician-ilhan-omar-apologises-israel-tweet-190211194722858.html
Muslim-American congresswoman Ilhan Omar "unequivocally" apologised on Monday for a tweet criticising a pro-Israel lobbyist group, after the post prompted reams of criticism from Republicans and many Democrats."Anti-Semitism is real and I am grateful for Jewish allies and colleagues educating me on the painful history of anti-Semitic tropes," Omar, one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress, said in a statement posted on Twitter. "We have to always be willing to step back and think through criticism, just as I expect people to hear me when others attack me for my identity," she continued. "This is why I unequivocally apologise," Omar said, adding that she "reaffirm[s]" the "problematic role of lobbyists in our politics, whether it be AIPAC, or fossil fuel industry".Omar's statement came after a wave of criticism from Republicans and many Democrats, in which they called on her to apologise for using "anti-Semitic tropes". aljazeera
US-led coalition strikes kill 50 in Syria's Deir ez-Zor
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/us-led-coalition-strikes-kill-50-in-syrias-deir-ez-zor/1390492
deir ez-zor:At least 50 civilians, mostly children and women, were killed in US-led coalition airstrikes in Syria's eastern Deir ez-Zor province over the past 24 hours, according to local sources today. Attack targeted the Daesh-held Bagoz town in the province, the sources said on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.The U.S.-led international coalition has yet to comment on the report. Last year, YPG/PKK terrorist group-- with US assistance -- captured parts of Deir ez-Zor’s eastern, western and northern outskirts west of the Euphrates. Anadolu
Syria says Israeli drone fired 4 missiles in Quneitra
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/syria-says-israeli-drone-fired-four-missiles-quneitra-province
An Israeli drone has fired four missiles near a demolished hospital and an army observation post in Syria's southern Quneitra province near the border with Israel, but there had been only material damage, the Syrian army has said.An army source was quoted by state news agency SANA as saying that the "Israeli enemy" on Monday also hit several sites along border villages close to a 1974 demilitarized zone on the Golan frontier, which with Russian support, the Syrian army regained control from rebels last year.middleeasteye
Acting Pentagon chief reaches Iraq to discuss US troops presence
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/02/pentagon-chief-shanaha-reaches-iraq-discuss-troops-presence-190212092423377.html
Patrick Shanahan, acting US defence secretary, has arrived in Baghdad on an unannounced visit for talks on the continued US troops presence in Iraq."We are in Iraq at the invitation of the govt and our interests are to build Iraqi security capability,"Shanahan told reporters travelling with him on his first trip to Iraq."I want to hear first-hand from them about concerns, the political dynamics that they are facing and then based on that we will obviously factor that into our planning."The acting Pentagon chief is due to meet Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi and will also discuss the withdrawal of US troops from Syria with US commanders.aljazeera
Iraqi Christians fear returning home, wary of Shia militia
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/iraqi-christians-fear-returning-home-wary-of-shia-militia/articleshow/67940481.cms
Bartella: Only a fraction of Christian residents has returned to the northern Iraqi town of Bartella, 2 years since it was liberated from Islamic State militants. Many fear intimidation by the town's population of Shabak, a Shiite Muslim ethnic group that dominates the militias now running Bartella. The tensions are a sign of the sectarian splits around northern Iraq in the wake of the defeat of the IS group. The large cross in Bartella's main square is one of few overt signs this town was historically Christian. Nearby, a massive billboard shows Shiite Muslim martyrs alongside a photo of Iran's Ayatollah Khomeini. AP
Taliban demand release of captive leader
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/taliban-demand-release-of-captive-leader-in-afghanistan/1390480
Taliban has named one of their captive leaders in Afghanistan as member of a peace negotiation team for the second round of talks with the US. With this move, the Taliban are pushing for the release of Anas Haqqani, a top leader of their offshoot Haqqani Network.Mullah Baradar, who is leading the Taliban's political office in Qatar, named a total of 14 men led by Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai to hold talks with US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad later this month in the capital Doha.“Anas Haqqani has been appointed to the negotiation committee, but he has not been released [Afghan govt] so far,” Zabihullah Mujahed,Taliban spokesman, said in a tweet.US envoy is on a tour to coordinate efforts for peace in Afghanistan with partners in Europe, the Middle East and South Asia.In a series of tweets following a meeting in Brussels with EU and NATO partners, Khalilzad said "jumpstarting" the intra-Afghan dialogue is an immediate priority.“Our shared purpose is to reach a peace agreement (not a withdrawal pact) that is worthy of sacrifices made over decades of war,”he said.Anadolu
5 Trucks With Saudi Crown Prince's Personal Amenities Reach Pakistan Ahead of Visit
https://www.news18.com/news/world/five-trucks-with-saudi-crown-princes-personal-amenities-reach-pakistan-ahead-of-visit-2033211.html
Personal amenities of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have reached Islamabad, ahead of his two-day trip to Pakistan during which investment deals worth billions of dollars are expected to be signed between the two-decades-old allies, according to a media report on Monday.The powerful heir to the oil-rich kingdom is expected to arrive in Pakistan this week, but the exact date of his arrival has not been disclosed due to security reasons. The crown prince's belongings, including his exercise equipment and furniture, reached Islamabad in five trucks, the Dawn News reported quoting Saudi Embassy sources.His security team and Saudi media representatives also arrived in the capital ahead of his visit.This will be the first visit of Mohammed as the crown prince. He had earlier visited Pakistan as defence minister at the start of Yemen conflict.PTI
Pak Jamaat asks Imran govt to make IMF deal public
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/430921-siraj-asks-govt-to-make-imf-deal-public
Lahore: Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan ameer Sirajul Haq has demanded the government make public its agreements with IMF so far and asked why the PTI government who took votes on the slogan of transparency was keeping the masses in the dark regarding IMF’s new conditions.Siraj was talking to the media at Mansoora on Monday with reference to the recent govt talks and agreements with IMF. He said the govt had raised prices of electricity, gas and POL before approaching IMF, expressing fears that prices of these items would be raised further after IMF fresh loan since it would cause a flood of price hike. As a result of deal, the value of the rupee would go down further and dollar rate would go up, he said.thenews
Iranian leader meets Pak Jamaat chief at Mansoora
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/430895-iranian-religious-leader-meets-siraj-at-mansoora
Lahore: Visiting chairman of Iranian educational institutions, Ayatullah Ali Raza Arafi, called on Jamaat-e-Islami Pak ameer Sirajul Haq at Mansoora here on Monday and discussed with him the situation prevailing in the Muslim world with particular reference to Pak-Iran relations, and avenues of cooperation in education sector. The newly-appointed Iranian Consul General in Lahore, Muhammad Raza Nazari, and principal of Jamia Al-Muntazir, Allama Niaz Naqvi,were also accompanying the visiting dignitary.Speaking on the occasion, Senator Sirajul Haq said Muslim unity and unanimity of Muslim Ummah on all major issues was the only way to counter enemy conspiracies against the security and survival of the Ummah. He said that the enemy wanted to destroy the Muslims by dividing them through different biases and prejudices. However, he said,Holy Quran repeatedly warned the believers that internal difference would weaken Muslims and finally annihilate them. thenews
Families of political prisoners in Egypt barred from visiting relatives: middleeasteye
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/families-political-prisoners-agony-egyptian-authorities-restrict-family-visits '
Families of many political prisoners in Egypt have complained that they have recently been barred from visiting their detained relatives despite obtaining permits from the interior ministry.At least 13 families were barred from visits, according to numerous reports by activists, including the family of ex presidential candidate Abdelmonem Abolfotouh and those of prominent politicians Massoum Marzouk and Shadi al-Ghazali Harb, as well as the son of former president Mohamed Morsi. The restrictions on visiting prisoners violate Egypt’s own prison law that grant prisoners the right to two visits per month.
Bangladesh seeks safe zone for Rohingya refugees
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/bangladesh-seeks-safe-zone-for-rohingya-refugees/1390522
Dhaka:Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has called on Russia, China and India to help the country tackle the Rohingya refugee crisis.Momen talked about a government proposal to establish a safe-zone in Rakhine State in Myanmar from where the refugees fled state persecution in late 2017.“If a safe zone is created under the vigilance of China, Russia and India along with ASEAN states, Rohingya people will be encouraged to return to their own land,"he said, adding that guaranteeing them citizenship upon their return is a pre-condition.Anadolu
flash: views & NEWS
Rafale deal: CAG Rajiv Mehrishi’s BJP connection & ‘conflict of interests’:Ashutosh Sharma
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/rafale-deal-cag-rajiv-mehrishis-bjp-connection-and-conflict-of-interests
Hindustan Paper Corporation employees approach NHRC against Modi govt, salaries unpaid for over 2 years
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/hindustan-paper-corporation-employees-approach-nhrc-against-modi-govt-salaries-unpaid-for-over-2-years
In Thanjavur, murder of man who argued with Muslim preachers creates a cloud of communal tension:S Senthalir
https://scroll.in/article/912710/in-thanjavur-murder-of-man-who-argued-with-muslim-preachers-creates-a-cloud-of-communal-tension
In partial victory for Amol Palekar, Ministry of Culture issues clarification on dissolved committees:Saurav Datta
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/in-partial-victory-for-amol-palekar-ministry-of-culture-issues-clarification-on-dissolved-committees
'A victory!': Jubilation as freed footballer returns to Australia
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/02/victory-joy-freed-footballer-set-australia-return-190212010457317.html
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