NEWS DIGEST, EVENING
24 July 2019: 20 Dhul Qadah 1440:Vol: 11, No:253
INDIA
Lok Sabha passes bill to designate individuals as terrorists amid Congress walkout
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/lok-sabha-passes-uapa-amendment-bill-shah-says-provisions-important-to-root-out-terror-5848015/
New Delhi:Lok Sabha Wednesday passed the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act, 2019, amid a walkout by Congress and TMC MPs, who sought the bill be sent to a Parliamentary standing committee for scrutiny. The Bill, tabled by Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy, seeks to introduce a provision in the anti-terror act to designate individuals suspected to have terror links, instead of just organisations, as terrorists. During a division of votes, demanded by AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi for consideration of the bill, as many as 287 MPs supported it and only 8 opposed it.During a debate in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah said the amendments were necessary to root out terror and keep the law enforcement agencies a step ahead of terrorists.Citing examples from other countries, Shah said, “UN has a procedure for it,US has it, Pakistan has it, China has it, Israel has it, EU has it, everyone has done it.” Congress criticised UAPA (Amendment) Bill, saying the legislation was being made more draconian by allowing individuals to be declared as terrorists rather than just organisations. The provision was also opposed by YSRCP and DMK. Under the Act, an investigating officer is required to obtain the prior approval of the DGP to seize properties that may be connected with terrorism. The Bill adds that if the investigation is conducted by an officer of NIA, approval of DG of NIA would be required for seizure of such property.The bill additionally empowers the officers of NIA, of the rank of inspector or above, to investigate cases.indianexpress
Amended UAPA: Onus of proving innocence lies on accused now
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/amended-uapa-onus-of-proving-innocence-lies-on-the-accused-now
Samleti blast case: ‘We are acquitted but who will bring back 23 years’
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/dausa-blast-rajasthan-high-court-police-jaipur-5846454/?fbclid=IwAR3ATjlJem6pM_LZuf_sYYEQi7dRhSKuy8NmbelsTM7G4XYZnVc_ahwpM4Q
Jaipur:The sky was overcast, but, for first time in over two decades, they were no longer under cloud, as they stepped out of Jaipur Central Jail Tuesday, a day after the Rajasthan High Court acquitted them in the 1996 Samleti blast case.At 5:19 pm Tuesday,Latif Ahmed Baja (42), Ali Bhatt (48), Mirza Nisar (39), Abdul Goni (57) and Rayees Beg (56), stepped out of prison; Beg had been incarcerated since June 8, 1997, while the others were imprisoned between June 17, 1996 and July 27, 1996.During this time,they were lodged in jails in Delhi and Ahmedabad,but were never released on parole or bail.While acquitting them on Monday, the High Court said the prosecution had failed to provide evidence of conspiracy. It said the prosecution could not establish any link between them and the main accused, Dr Abdul Hameed, whose death sentence was upheld. After their release Tuesday, 5 men said they didn’t know each other until CID-CB made them an accused in the case. While Beg is a resident of Agra, Goni is from Doda district of J&K, and the others are from Srinagar. Before they were jailed, Bhatt had a carpet business, Baja used to sell Kashmiri handicraft in Delhi and Kathmandu, Nisar was a Class IX student and Goni used to run a school.“We have no idea about the world we are stepping into,” says Goni. “We’ve lost relatives while we were inside. My mother, father and two uncles passed away. We have been acquitted, but who will bring back those years,” says Beg, adding that his sister has since got married and his niece is now about to get married too.A couple of men hug him and start crying. One is his son, Rizwan, and the other is his brother, Saleem. “We never lost hope all these years,” says Saleem, trying to hold back his tears. “Last night, we couldn’t sleep or eat. The anticipation, and then the paper work, seemed to go on forever,” says Nisar. He claims that he was just 16 years old when he was made an accused, but the officials showed his age as 19 then. Now 39, he says he would like to get married and try to make a fresh start. Baja says he hasn’t married either, but then points to his bald head and wonders if he will find any bride. Men ask for help to operate a cellphone, so that they can speak to their relatives. 4 of them head to office of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, which they credit with playing a crucial role in their acquittal. The case dates back to May 22, 1996, when a bomb blast in a bus near Samleti village in Dausa, on the Jaipur-Agra highway, killed 14 people. While 12 people were accused in the case, 7 were acquitted so far. Indian express
Maharashtra ATS chargesheet says IS-like group was inspired by Zakir Naik’s teachings
https://scroll.in/latest/931643/maharashtra-ats-chargesheet-says-islamic-state-like-group-was-inspired-by-zakir-naiks-teachings
Maharashtra ATS has said in a chargesheet filed in a Mumbai court earlier this month that members of an “Islamic State-inspired” terror group were inspired by the speeches of Zakir Naik, PTI reported today. ATS found several videos of Naik and his images on social media profiles of the accused, the chargesheet said. “The group had planned a mass killing of devotees at the 400-year-old Shree Mumbreshwar Temple at Mumbra by poisoning the ‘maha prasad’ there,”chargesheet added. An event called Shreemadh Bhagwat Katha was organised at temple in Dec last year.The chargesheet said. One of the arrested accused, Talha Potrik, had tried to poison the offering there, it added.“The group members had also obtained information through the internet and social media about making explosives and poison and conducted blast trials in hills near Mumbra bypass,” the chargesheet said.ATS identified Abu Hamza as the leader of the group, and said he conducted the blast trials. The chargesheet said that some of the arrested accused attended physical training sessions for terror activities at a stadium in Mumbra near Mumbai. Some members of the group were also in touch with foreign handlers, it added.scroll.in
Rajya Sabha Passes POCSO Amendment Bill, includes death penalty for aggravated sexual assault
https://www.news18.com/news/politics/rajya-sabha-passes-pocso-amendment-bill-by-including-death-penalty-for-aggravated-sexual-assault-2244683.html
New Delhi: Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill entailing amendments to POCSO Act by including death penalty for aggravated sexual assault on children, besides providing stringent punishments for other crimes against minors. Now the bill would be sent to the Lok Sabha for its approval.The proposed changes in the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act also provide for fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday by Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani. To combat rising cases of child sex abuse, the Union Cabinet earlier this month approved amendments to strengthen the POCSO Act.Applauding Derel O’Brien for sharing his own experience of sexual harassment, Smriti Irani on Wednesday talked about how much the incident leaves an imprint on the mind."At least 123 fast-courts have been sanctioned by the Govt especially for women. More than one lakh cases are pending across the country and 18 states have given consent to establish these courts. The Govt has sanctioned over Rs 700 crore for the expenditure and by 2021, we aim to form these courts," she added.Irani said over 6 lakh sexual offenders have been registered under NSOR.news18
Yogi govt withdraws 20 more Muzaffarnagar cases
https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/yogi-govt-withdraws-20-more-muzaffarnagar-riots-cases
Yogi Adityanath Govt in UP has allowed 20 more cases of Muzaffarnagar riots to be withdrawn.With this, total numbers of cases withdrawn in the Muzaffarnagar riots has reached 74.The cases, which have been allowed to be withdrawn by the Govt, were registered on behalf of the police and the public. All these cases were related to arson, robbery and rioting and were registered at the Fugana police station. Some of the cases are also registered at Bhaurakala, Jansath, New Mandi and Kotwali police stations.The Yogi Govt has been in the process of withdrawing the cases in the Muzaffarnagar riots since last year.Before the Lok Sabha elections, seven rulings had come up till March 8, allowing withdrawal of 48 cases.Five cases have been disposed of in the court, while in one case, the police have filed a final report.The Yogi Govt has so far allowed withdrawal of 74 cases from 92 riot cases marked. The process of withdrawal of 18 cases is still in progress. More than 500 people were booked by the police after the riots.IANS
‘Jai Shri Ram’ has become provocative war-cry: 49 celebrities write to PM Modi, seek action on lynching
https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/jai-shri-ram-has-become-a-provocative-war-cry-49-celebrities-write-to-pm-modi-seek-action-on-intolerance-mob-lynching/1654738/lite/?fbclid=IwAR1p3BheieTb-bOlwchi_inOxs5YvfjkdfLAKWTkWvSIOvr_-Kw3aCG6ymc
Expressing concerns over the rise in the number of mob lynchings and the religious persecution of minorities in the name of religion in country, 49 activists, filmmakers and artists have written an open letter to PM Narendra Modi. Among the signatories are eminent directors Adoor Gopalkrishnan, Shyam Benegal, Mani Ratnam, Anurag Kashyap and actors Aparna Sen, Konkona Sensharma and Riddhi Sen.The letter urges PM Modi to take action against the perpetrators of such mob lynchings. The artists said that even though Modi had criticised such lynchings, it wasn’t enough.“If life imprisonment without parole can be the sentence in cases of murder, why not for lynchings, which are even more heinous? No citizen should live in fear in his/her own country,”letter read.The artists also expressed regret over how ‘Jai Shri Ram’ had become a provocative war-cry. “Ram is sacred for the majority community, stop defiling the name of Ram.” In their open letter to Modi, the activists also talk about number of lynching cases witnessed in India. According to NCRB data, the letter said, 840 incidents of atrocities against Dalits had taken place in 2016. It also said that while the number of cases was on the rise, there was a definite decline in the percentage of convictions.financialexpress
2 Muslim kids thrashed for not chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ in Bengal’s Asansol
https://caravandaily.com/2-muslim-kids-thrashed-for-not-chanting-jai-shri-ram-in-bengals-asansol/
Asansol:In yet another incident of hate crimes against Muslims, 2 Muslim children were thrashed for not chanting Jai Shri Ram in West Bengal’s Asansol district. According to Urdu daily Rashtriy Sahara, the incident forced Muslims to live in a state of fear, while school and markets remain shut.Recently, Rizwan from north Asansol was lynched by a mob there.2 children who were returning from school at Musaddi locality were stopped and asked to chant Jai Shrei Ram. When they refused they were beaten and threatened to be killed. In the meantime, local Muslim youths reached the spot and rescued the minors.Police succeeded in nabbing one accused while others escaped. he incident is being seen as an attempt to instigate the communal passions among the people in the constituency which is represented by BJP’s Babul Supriyo.caravandaily
Muslim man ‘beaten up’ for not chanting Jai Shri Ram in West Bengal, one arrested
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/muslim-man-beaten-up-for-not-chanting-jai-shri-ram-in-west-bengal-one-arrested-5843269/
Kolkata :One person has been arrested in Birbhum’s Paikar area for allegedly beating up a 35-year-old Muslim man after he reportedly refused to chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’.Ismail Sheikh, who sells spices for a living, had lodged a complaint with police, alleging that he was beaten by one Gautam Mondal at Kushmor village on Sunday when he went to sell spice there.“I had gone to Kushmor village to sell spices on Sunday when a man accosted me and asked me to chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’. I told him that every person has the right to follow his religion, and therefore I did not chant the slogan. When I refused to chant, he started beating me up. Later, I left the spot. He thrashed me again when I was returning home,” Sheikh, a resident of Bhadista area of Birbhum district, said.Acting on the complaint, police have arrested Gautam Mondal. indianexpress
Aurangabad: 4 engineering students held for forcing youths to chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/aurangabad-four-engineering-students-held-for-forcing-youths-to-chant-jai-shri-ram/articleshow/70338475.cms
Aurangabad city police arrested 4 engineering students in early hours of Monday for allegedly forcing 2 Muslim youths to chant “Jai Shri Ram” on Sunday night. Police said the suspects had consumed liquor at a bar and had just stepped out to go to their car when they spotted the Muslim youths. They accosted the duo and forced them to chant the slogan. TOI
Bihar: Woman accused of witchcraft, beaten to death
https://thewire.in/rights/bihar-woman-accused-of-witchcraft-beaten-to-death
Nawada: A 50-year-old woman was allegedly beaten to death here on Tuesday by villagers, who accused her of practicing witchcraft, police said.The incident took place at Koyaligarh village under Govindpur police station area, where the woman was attacked with bamboo and wooden sticks around 8 am, SHO Jyoti Punj said. “Woman was brought to police station by her husband and other family members. Noticing her critical condition, we rushed her to a primary health centre, where doctors declared her brought dead,” he said.An FIR has been lodged by the woman’s husband, who has named 12 residents of the village in the complaint, SHO said.PTI
NRC: Minority students’ union is happy as SC foils ‘conspiracy’ of Centre, BJP
http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/jul/23/nrc-minority-students-union-is-happy-as-sc-foils-conspiracy-of-centre-bjp-2008242.html
Guwahati: All Assam Minority Students’ Union (AAMSU) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s order that turned down the request of Centre and Assam Govt to conduct 20% sample re-verification of draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the districts bordering Bangladesh and 10 per cent sample re-verification in the other districts. The students’ body said by turning down the request, the SC had thwarted a conspiracy of the Centre and BJP which allegedly did not want the draft’s publication.
President Doesn't Make Things Up: Trump's Advisor On Kashmir Comment
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/president-doesnt-make-things-up-says-donald-trumps-advisor-2074275
US President Donald Trump "does not make up things", one of his top advisers said when asked about his stunning claim that PM Narendra Modi had asked him to "mediate" on the Kashmir issue. India has strongly rejected that claim.It is "a very rude question," Donald Trump's Chief Economic Advisor Larry Kudlow told reporters at the White House when a journalist asked if the remarks were made up."The President doesn't make things up," Kudlow said.On Monday, President Trump offered to "mediate" between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue as he met PM Imran Khan at the White House. US President claimed that PM Modi asked him to mediate on Kashmir when they met in Osaka in Japan on the sidelines of the G20 Summit last month.PTI
Created ‘favourable conditions’ to resolve Doklam standoff: China
https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/created-favourable-conditions-to-resolve-doklam-standoff-china/article28698704.ece?homepage=true
A white paper titled ‘China’s National Defence in the New Era’, released by the Chinese Defence Ministry in Beijing touched upon various aspects of its military development comparing with India, US, Russia and other countries.Chinese military today said it is striving to promote security and stability along the India-China border and has created “favourable conditions” to resolve the Doklam standoff in 2017.A white paper titled ‘China’s National Defence in the New Era’, released by the Chinese Defence Ministry in Beijing touched upon various aspects of its military development comparing with India, US, Russia and other countries.About the situation at the Sino-Indian border, the white paper said the Chinese military “strive to promote stability and security along the border with India, and taken effective measures to create favourable conditions for the peaceful resolution of Donglang [Doklam] standoff”.PTI
'Article 370 can't be shielded from Parliament,courts'
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/article-370-cant-be-shielded-from-parliament-courts-experts/articleshow/70357689.cms
The constitutional validity of contentious Article 370 has been put to test again! Legal experts believe that the Article is temporary in nature, and avenues have not been explored yet to change its status via Amendment Act to the Constitution. Therefore, it is contestable on the floor of the Parliament and exposed to the scrutiny of law. Constitution expert and former Secretary General of Lok Sabha Subhash Kashyap, said this Article is not barred from a debate on the floor of the Parliament."A Member of Parliament can give notice on motion and contest its validity. Amendments to the Constitution are necessary to keep it contemporary and relevant," Kashyap added while speaking to IANS but refrained from commenting on petition filed before the Supreme Court. Petition filed by BJP leader Ashwani Upadhyay has questioned the constitutional validity of the provision that grants special status to J&K. "Article 370 under the Constitution has been ascribed as a temporary provision, and not a special provision.There are provisions in the Constitution - temporary, transitional and special. Temporary is the weakest. The question is - how can be it ended and when shall be ended." Kashyap said. The hearing on a plea challenging the constitutional validity of Article 370 is pending in the SC since the beginning of this year, although the matter came up for early hearing on July 10, but it is yet to list for a detailed hearing. "The temporary status of Article 370 has been there for over 50 years. The SC has held that Constitution is Supreme and India is a sovereign Country, not the state of J&K. So, the SC can declare Article 370 manifestly arbitrary," said Upadhyay.The plea contends that the Constitution of J&K is invalid as it is yet to get the assent of the President, which is mandatory according to the Constitution.IANS
Karnataka LIVE : Yeddyurappa yet to stake claim, says waiting for instructions from Delhi
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/karnataka-live-updates-bs-yeddyurappa-plans-return-to-chair-bjp-party-leaders-to-meet-guv-5846769/?#liveblogstart
After Opposition BJP in Karnataka won the confidence motion moved by CM HD Kumaraswamy by 6 votes, state BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa is expected to meet Governor Vajubhai Vala after consulting the party’s central leaders today.“I’m awaiting instructions from Delhi. I can call legislature party meeting any time and go to Raj Bhavan (to stake claim). I’m waiting for it,” Yeddyurappa who masterminded attempts to topple the coalition, told reporters after meeting RSS leaders at its state HQRS “Keshava Krupa” in Bengaluru. “BJP is a natural claimant with the majority on its side in the House of which the strength is reduced now.We will be looking to take the responsibility and we will be following the directions of our national president and parliamentary board,”said P Muralidhar Rao, BJP general secretary in-charge of Karnataka. Meanwhile, 2 Independent MLAs today urged the Supreme Court to allow them to withdraw their plea seeking its direction to Speaker to conduct "forthwith" floor test on a trust motion moved by Kumaraswamy Govt.A day after the coalition Govt headed by him collapsed, Kumaraswamy on Wednesday remained non-committal on the future of his party JDS' alliance with the Congress, saying both parties have not yet discussed it.indianexpress
Hours after BJP Says Kamal Nath Govt Won't Last a Day, 2 Party MLAs Vote for Cong on Amendment Bill
https://www.news18.com/news/politics/hours-after-bjps-challenge-for-floor-test-in-mp-2-of-its-mlas-side-with-congress-during-voting-on-amendment-law-2244577.html
New Delhi: Hours after daring Kamal Nath Govt that it would fail to last if the BJP "No. 1 or No.2" issued an order, 2 BJP MLAs voted in favour of Congress-led Govt during voting on the criminal law (amendment) in the state assembly.Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul, who cross-voted and supported Congress Govt on Penal Code Amendment Bill,said they were not given due respect in BJP.After Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargav's challenge earlier in the day, MP CM Kamal Nath had dared the BJP to bring a no-trust motion in the Assembly on Wednesday.“Every day BJP says we are a minority Govt and one which could fall any day,” said Nath. “Today in voting in the assembly (on criminal law amendment), 2 BJP MLAs voted in favour of our Govt. My Govt is not in a minority.” Congress reportedly secured support of 122 MLAs during a dramatic vote division on amendment bill, with BJP MLAs abstaining. Bhargav had told Congress Govt in the Assembly that “if the No. 1 or No. 2 of our party issue an order, we can bring down this Govt within 24 hours”.Although BJP has been questioning the longevity of Nath Govt, this is the first time that a Leader of Opposition has put it on record inside the House.“Soon we would perform last rites of Congress Govt,” Bhargav said.news18
You won't last 24 hours If..:BJP leader to Kamal Nath
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/madhya-pradesh-wont-last-24-hours-if-bjp-leader-gopal-bhargava-to-kamal-nath-after-karnataka-trust-v-2074552
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra turns down offer to be Congress chief, say reports
https://www.newsx.com/national/priyanka-gandhi-vadra-congress-chief-rahul-gandhi-lok-sabha-elections-sonbhadra-massacre
Congress East UP General Secretary and top party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra turned down the request to take charge as party president todday, reports said. The position of Congress chief has been vacant after Rahul Gandhi stepped down as the party president following the debacle in Lok Sabha elections 2 months ago. If the reports are to be believed, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has told senior Congress leaders that there is no question of her taking the charge as the new president and she would like to continue working in the role she was assigned by her brother.Priyanka’s recent politically powerful appearance like protest over Sonbhadra massacre and election campaigns during Lok Sabha elections 2019 gave hopes to party leaders and workers that she is all set to take over. While protesting over the Sonbhadra incident, Priyanka Gandhi had spent a night at a Govt guest house as she was taken into custody when she was on the way to meet kins of 10 people who were killed over a land dispute.NewsX
Kerala HC Judge Calls on Brahmins to 'Agitate' Against Caste-Based Reservations
https://thewire.in/caste/kerala-high-court-judge-chitambaresh-brahmin-caste-based-reservations
Justice V. Chitambaresh of the Kerala high court courted controversy on Tuesday after recent remarks he made asking Brahmins to agitate against caste-based reservation were circulated on the internet. Speaking at Tamil Brahmin’s Global Meet, the judge also described certain characteristics that apparently define a Brahmin. He went on to promote preservation of agraharams (temple land donated to Brahmins) and apparently expressing an opposition to constitutionally mandated system of reservation. He also said Brahmins should be at the helm of affairs.On the issue of reservations,the HC judge, after claiming that he was not expressing any opinion because he is holding a constitutional post, said that the Brahmins must “agitate” or voice their concerns about “economic reservation alone,and not caste or commual reservation.”“It is time for you to deliberate as to whether reservation should be on the basis of community or caste alone. Occupying a constitutional post, it may not be proper for me to express any opinion– I am not expressing my opinion at all. But I am only kindling your interest or reminding you that there is a platform for you to agitate or to voice your concern about economic reservation alone,and not caste or communal reservation,” he said.While acknowledging that there is a 10% quota for the economically weaker upper castes, Justice Chitambaresh goes on to say,“A son of a Brahmin cook, even if he falls within the non-creamy layer zone, will not get any reservation. Whereas, a son of a timber merchant who belongs to other backward communities will get reservation if he is within the non-creamy layer zone.”He once again reiterates that he is “not expressing any opinion at all” and says “it is for you (audience)to deliberate and put forward your opinion”.thewire/B&B
A Brahmin is twice born, should be at the helm of affairs: Kerala HC judge Justice V Chitambaresh
https://barandbench.com/brahmin-justice-v-chitambaresh-kerala-high-court/
To fight its communal image, BJP sets up Christian missionary cell in Mizoram
https://thewire.in/politics/bjp-mizoram-christian-missionary-cell
New Delhi: Having failed to make much headway against the majority Mizo community’s idea about the BJP as a communal force in the last Mizoram assembly elections, the party has embarked on a novel strategy in the small northeastern state – setting up a Christian missionary cell within its unit.According to local news reports, the cell, aimed at increasing its footprint among the Christian-majority population of the state, would be headed by a new member, Lalhriatrenga Chhangte. The other committee members would soon be appointed with the advice of the state party chief J.V. Hluna.Pu Lahriatrenga, state’s first mining engineer, is a well-known name among Mizos. BJP, for some time, has been trying to bring him into the party fold. Though he was reportedly offered a ticket to contest the recent general elections from the lone Mizoram seat, he had refused it and contested as an independent instead. However, on July 12, he decided to join BJP.A Mizoram Post report, quoting an unnamed party member, said on July 19 that the formation of the missionary cell was approved by the party’s northeast zonal secretary Ajay Jamwal on July 17.The cell would primarily offer help to churches and missionaries and thereby change BJP’s unpopular image in the state that it indulges in communal politics, a major reason for its defeat in the assembly polls held in Nov.2018.This was also the reason why Mizo National Front (MNF), a constituent of NDA and BJP’s North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), didn’t have any electoral truck with the party.thewire
RSS women’s wing seeks global focus on forced conversions in Pakistan
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/rss-women-s-wing-seeks-global-focus-on-forced-conversions-in-pakistan/story-FpukbTmgV1TXFo3UBTKb5M.html
New Delhi:Rashtra Sevika Samiti, women’s wing of RSS has urged the international community to take notice of the alleged cases of forced conversion of Hindu women in Pakistan’s Sindh province.According to a senior functionary, Samiti has decided to take up the issue by raising awareness about the atrocities being faced by the women in Pakistan. In a tweet put out by the Samiti, it said, “…The world community should focus on growing atrocities and conversion of Hindu women in Sindh province of Pakistan and stand against it. The Sevika Samiti seeks to secure the life of women all over the world and the right for them to follow their religion.”HT
Rajasthan publishing house apologizes for objectionable content on Muslims,recalls book
http://www.indiatomorrow.net/eng/rajasthan-publishing-house-apologizes-for-objectionable-content-on-muslims-recalls-book-from-market?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=emailemail&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Indiatomorrownet+%28IndiaTomorrow.net%29
Jaipur:A publishing house in Jaipur has apologized for objectionable content on Muslims in a text book for B.Ed. after a delegation from the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) met them and drew their attention to the content. In its written apology, the publishing house has also ordered recall of the book from the market. On page 22 of Rajhans publishing house’s B.Ed. ‘One Week Series’ book, Q.No.21 had this question:“What steps should we take to end religious fundamentalism and bias?” As answer to the question, seven steps were suggested:“1) Equal opportunities to people of all religions in schools, institutions and colleges. 2) Religious education should be stopped in madrasas. 3) All should be taught religious tolerance. 4) A minimum sentence of two years should be given to those who do religious discrimination. 5) Muslims should understand that they are sons of Hindus. 6) Muslims want to establish their Govt all over the world, and for this, they have spread terrorism, which they call Jihad. But they cannot establish their supremacy through terror. For this they need brotherhood and harmony because after death one needs ‘two yard land’. 7) Due to religious bias, communal feeling is spreading, particularly, Hindu-Muslim communities are engaged in clashes due to communal bias and fundamentalism, for example, breaking of idols, killing cows, spreading colour on Muslims, blowing music outside mosque….”A delegation of APCR rights group comprising joint secretary Muzammil Rizvi, Jaipur vice president M.Ansar Khan, Journalist Raheem Khan and others visited the head office of Rajhans Prakashan in Jaipur and submitted a written complaint. Official at the publishing house instantly admitted the mistake and offered apology. In its written apology, they also promised to recall the controversial book.indiatomorrow
B.Ed guide declares Muslims as terrorists
https://www.siasat.com/b-ed-guide-declares-muslims-terrorists-1557524/
Notion Eggs are Non-Veg is Religious, Not Rational: Economist Jean Dreze on Midday Meal Row
https://www.news18.com/news/india/notion-that-eggs-are-non-vegetarian-is-religious-not-rational-economist-jean-dreze-on-midday-meal-row-2242139.html
New Delhi: In January, the newly-elected Congress Govt in Chhattisgarh decided to include eggs at least twice a week in the midday meals given to children in schools under the National Food Security Act.The decision was based on the food samples tested in 2017-18 from 19 districts across the state. The results showed that meals provided in only two schools met the prescribed calorie requirements. The protein requirement was met only in three school meals. In a state, where 38% children are malnourished, with rate being higher at 44% in children from Scheduled Tribes, the move to add eggs, a super food, was celebrated by many. But in July, in a state where 83%population consumes eggs, protests by minority vegetarian groups picked up steam,pressurising the state to withdraw the move.Speaking to News18, economist and Right to Food activist Jean Dreze explains why eggs have no substitute and why adding these in school meals trigger controversy. Jean Dreze said, "The resistance comes mainly from a minority of upper-caste vegetarians. As a vegetarian myself, I am dismayed at their narrow-mindedness. Vegetarianism is about voluntary abstention from certain foods, not imposing one's preferences on others. Besides, the notion that eggs are non-vegetarian is an odd idea peculiar to India. As Gandhi himself pointed out, "He who can take milk should have no objection to taking sterile eggs". The notion that eggs are non-vegetarian but not milk is a religious belief, not a rational idea." He added, "egg vigilantism is not very different from cow vigilantism. It involves imposing your own religious beliefs on others, by force if necessary. The main difference is that in this case, it is a minority that is imposing its beliefs on the majority."news18
Hyderabad:Alleged Police campaign to evoke sentiments of Muslim youths: Siasat report
https://www.siasat.com/alleged-police-campaign-evoke-sentiments-muslim-youths-1557522/
Hyderabad: Police have started a campaign to entangle Muslim youths who attempt to save the Muslim girls who are wandering with Hindu boys.Earlier, police took the support of social media to target Muslim youths who are emotional towards Islam and imprisoned them in serious offences. There are many such instances where Muslim youths are behind the bars.This time, West Zone Police formed a team of non-Muslim girl constables clad in burkhas and wandering with civil dress constables posing them as the Hindus(with teeka on their forehead). It is reported that police started this campaign against the Muslim youths who make an attempt to save the Muslim girls who are found with Hindu boys. Police had a plan to arrest the emotional Muslim youths who get provoked seeing the Muslim girls with non-Muslim men. There are also cases that police implicates such youths in fake cases associating them with ISIS activities and puts them in prison.The West Zone Police have started a new way to catch the emotional Muslim youths and this was carried out by Tappa Chabutra Police. Under this secret operation, four persons by name Abdur Raoof, Ateeq, Mohammed Riyaz and a 60-year-old Mohammed Ziyauddin were arrested by the police when they stopped a Muslim lady who is in Burkha with a Hindu boy (the police team which was clad in Burkhas) and assaulted them.When the family members of the arrested person got the news they reached the Police Station at Tappa Chabutra and protested against the act.Inspector of police, Chabutra, Ashok Kumar confirmed that he had deputed four constables for this campaign. He also informed that the protestors who were arrested were released later after they wrote a bond of good conduct in the future.It is also reported that this campaign has permission from Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad. Siasat
Tamil Nadu man held for ‘criticising’ NIA raids
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/tamil-nadu-man-held-for-criticising-nia-raids-on-social-media-5846458/
Chennai:A 39-year-old man was arrested and remanded in judicial custody for his remarks in a social media criticising a recent NIA raid in his village. Police said they arrested M Thaj, from Muthupettai near Tiruvarur, for his message criticising NIA raids and attributing political motives to it.The message in question apparently referred to recent NIA raids,held in 14 locations in Tamil Nadu, to probe 14 Muslim youths for their alleged role in funding an alleged module called Ansarullah. Asked why Thaj was arrested, SP of Tiruvarur, said Thaj has no link to the case being probed by NIA. “But his social media post was portraying NIA case in bad light. He attributed communal motives to NIA probe,”SP said.indianexpress
Terror funding case: NIA raids house of bizman Ghulam Ahmad Wani in Pulwama
https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/terror-funding-case-nia-raids-house-of-bizman-ghulam-ahmad-wani-in-pulwama20190723134658/
Pulwama:NIA carried out a raid at residence of businessman Ghulam Ahmad Wani in Achgoza Keller area.The raid was a part of NIA investigation against suspected terror funding.On July 2 also, NIA had issued summons to separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani's grandson to appear before it in New Delhi on July 9 for questioning in connection with terror funding case.NIA and ED have so far arrested dozens of businessman in the Valley and separatist leaders in the case. ANI
WORLD
US House passes resolution condemning anti-Israel BDS movement
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/house-passes-resolution-condemning-bds-movement-190724000415752.html
US House of Representatives approved a resolution condemning Global Boycott Divestment and Sanctions Movement (BDS), in a move Palestinian rights groups called "misguided". The House resolution, a non-binding expression of congressional sentiment, won bipartisan support with a 398-17 vote. Supporters of the bill argued BDS movement is harmful because it seeks to delegitimise Israel and is incompatible with support for a two-state solution.But opponents say that even though the resolution is non-binding, "it still very troubling". "They are misguided with this resolution. Americans have a right to protest," said Abed Ayoub, national policy director for American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. "BDS itself is working to end the oppression of Palestinians and what Israel does to allow that to happen.It is pushing for Israel to comply with international law. So there is nothing wrong with BDS movement,"Ayoub said."The issue here is aggressions and the policies put forward by Israel and how we are turning a blind eye on those as a nation. There should be resolutions against occupation,against the checkpoints and other human rights violations Israel is perpetrating on Palestinians." BDS movement was launched in 2005 by Palestinians to generate international pressure on Israel to respect Palestinian human rights. Supporters say the effort draws from the anti-apartheid campaign in South Africa in the 1980s and the earlier African American Civil Rights movement of 1950s and 60s.But by selecting Israel for criticism and blaming it for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocates of the anti-BDS resolution claimed the movement is anti-Semitic and should be rejected.aljazeera
Israel's home demolitions a 'war crime': Palestinian envoy at UNSC
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/israel-home-demolitions-war-crime-palestinian-envoy-190723172958631.html
UN:The latest demolitions of Palestinian homes near a separation barrier on the outskirts of Jerusalem were "shocking and heartbreaking" and should be probed as a war crime, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour said. Addressing UNSC in New York City, Mansour held up photographs of bulldozers, Israeli police and soldiers moving in on the Sur Baher community the previous day as Palestinian families watched on as their homes were torn down."In the early hours of Monday, a large contingent of Israeli soldiers entered the homes of the families residing there, forcing them to leave their homes before proceeding to destroying them using military bulldozers and massive amounts of dynamite," Mansour said. According to Mansour, demolition of some 10 buildings, most of them still under construction,had left 17 people homeless, including 11 children. Another 350 Palestinians await the imminent arrival of bulldozers on their doorsteps too, he added.aljazeera
Hamas delegation meets with Iranian officials
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/hamas-delegation-meets-with-iranian-officials-in-tehran/1539636#
Tehran:A senior delegation from Palestine’s Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) held talks with advisor of Iran’s supreme leader and the head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, according to Iranian local media reports.During a meeting with Saleh al-Arouri, Hamas deputy leader, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council President Ali Shamkhani described US Mideast compromise plan dubbed the Deal of Century as “a failed plan” ruling out that it can come true, Iran’s state-run IRNA reported.Shamkhani also referred to some Arab states, which he did not name, saying they have tried to divide Palestinian resistance movement as well as Palestine’s main supporters."But it turned out that their rulers are in contact with the Zionist enemy, and are receiving Israeli military advisors for killing Muslims," he added.For his part, Iran’s advisor to the Supreme Leader in International Affairs, Ali Akbar Velayati, said ''Deal of the Century” has not been formed yet, expecting its failure.“Your last day’s talks with the Supreme Leader were very strategic and important, and a milestone in the relations between Iran and Palestine, and relationship of the Republic Islamic of Iran with Palestinian people is a deep-rooted, and deep-seated that is getting stronger every day," he was quoted by IRNA as telling the Hamas delegation in reference to Monday's talks with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah AliKhamenei.“The delegation reiterated that Hamas will continue upholding Palestinian rights and that the movement refuses to make concessions on any right, regardless of pressure placed on the Palestinian resistance movement,” said Hamas. “During the meeting, both sides voiced their rejection to US aggression in the region, especially the US sanctions on Iran and its harassment of Iran,“ it added.AA
Rouhani hints at possible swap for seized tankers
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/iran-rouhani-hints-swap-seized-tankers-190724095311088.html
Iran's President Hassan Rouhani appears to have suggested that if the UK releases an Iranian tanker it apprehended off the coast of Gibraltar earlier this month, then his country will return a British-flagged vessel it seized last week."If Britain steps away from the wrong actions in Gibraltar, they will receive an appropriate response from Iran," Rouhani said today.The Grace-1 supertanker was seized off the British overseas territory on Spain's southern coast on July 4 on suspicion it was shipping oil to Syria, in breach of EU sanctions. Some two weeks later, Iran seized British-flagged Stena Impero in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, claiming that it had collided with a fishing boat and violated international law.
Boris Johnson due to become UK PM, unveil cabinet
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/boris-johnson-due-uk-prime-minister-unveil-cabinet-190724101745504.html
Boris Johnson is due to enter 10 Downing Street as the United Kingdom's new PM following his election as the leader of the ruling Conservative Party. 55-year-old will assume the role later on Wednesday, just over three months before he has to make good on his promise to lead UK out of the EU - a process known as Brexit - by Oct31 with or without a withdrawal agreement. He also must win over the many Britons who oppose Brexit. In his victory speech on Tuesday, Johnson vowed to deliver Brexit and unite the country.He will replace Theresa May,who announced her resignation last month after parliament repeatedly rejected the withdrawal agreement she struck with the 28-nation bloc.aljazeera
Possible Israeli attack in south: Syria state media
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/syria-state-tv-reports-israeli-attack-country-south-190723235634747.html
Syria's state media said on Wednesday an Israeli missile attack had targeted the country's southern province of Daraa, but did not report any casualties.State news agency SANA and TV added that "Israeli aggression" struck Tal al-Hara hill that is home to Syrian army posts adding that it only caused material damage. The media gave no further details about attack that came a month after Israel targeted the same area. aljazeera
Qatar and Somalia deny NYT's bombing news report
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/07/qatar-somalia-deny-nyt-bombing-news-report-190723204815882.html
Qatar and Somalia denied a news report that suggested Doha had an "interest" in a bombing in northern Somalia carried out by a local armed group in May. New York Times reported on Monday it obtained an audio recording from a foreign intelligence agency involving a Qatari businessman working in Somalia.The recorded conversation suggested the bombers attacked the city of Bosaso "to advance Qatar's interests by driving out its rival, UAE".Qatar's Govt refuted Times' story on Tuesday, and noted it was not given the audio recording by the newspaper after requesting it."The state of Qatar's foreign policy has always been one of creating stability and prosperity - we do not meddle in the internal affairs of sovereign countries. Anybody doing so is not acting on behalf of our Govt," it said in a statement. Somalia's Foreign Minister Ahmed Isse Awad backed up Qatar's assertion. Aljazeera
May Unleash Terror Such People Would Forget Al Qaeda: Imran Khan On Iran
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/may-unleash-terror-such-people-would-forget-al-qaeda-imran-khan-on-iran-conflict-2074340
Washington: Cautioning the US about any misadventure against Iran, Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Tuesday said any action on the lines of Iraq could be much worse and people would "forget al-Qaeda"."My worry about Iran is.... I am not sure whether all the countries realise the gravity of the situation if there is a conflict with Iran," Khan said in response to a question during his appearance at Institute of Peace, a think-tank funded by US Congress."You know, this is not going to be the same as (2003 US invasion of) Iraq. This could be much, much, much worse.... It could unleash terrorism, which -- people would forget al-Qaeda.... You know, the battle might be quite short if it goes ahead, bombing airfields and so on," he said."But the consequences after that, my worry is that not many people fully understand it. And I would strongly urge that there should not be...another military situation," Mr Khan said amidst an escalation of tension between Iran and US."We would do anything, I mean, if (there is) any role Pakistan can play in this. We have already suggested this to Iran," he said."Until recently, Iran was willing but then, somehow I felt Iran is getting very desperate. And I do not think they should be pushed into a situation where this leads to a conflict," Khan added.The visiting PM said he had previously declined to meet the Afghan Taliban leaders, following objections by the Afghan Govt. "But now, when I go back after meeting President Trump, and also, I have spoken to Afghan President Ghani, now I will meet the Taliban and try my best to get them to talk to Afghan Govt," he said. Eventual peace talks, Khan said, should lead to "an inclusive election where Taliban...also participate."PTI
Pak ready to release doctor who helped CIA track Osama in exchange of jailed Aafia Siddiqui
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/pakistan-ready-to-release-doctor-who-helped-cia-track-osama-in-exchange-of-jailed-neuroscientist/articleshow/70346704.cms
PM Imran Khan has offered to release jailed Pakistani surgeon Shakeel Afridi, who helped CIA track down Osama bin Laden, in exchange of neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui serving an 86-year US prison sentence after her 2010 conviction in shooting at FBI agents and American soldiers in Afghanistan.Khan, in an interview to Fox News appeared reluctant to give any commitment on the release of Pakistani doctor Afridi.He said that the release of Afridi is an "emotive issue" for the country as in Pakistan he is considered a spy for the US.He, however, said he would be willing to consider releasing Afridi in exchange for Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia.economictimes
Publication of Al-Quds paper suspended for 1st time
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20190724-publication-of-al-quds-newspaper-suspended-for-first-time-since-1951/
Well-known Palestinian newspaper Al-Quds was not printed on Tuesday for first time since it was established due to a strike by its employees over salary payments. In an ultimatum to the editorial board issued on Monday, the staff pointed out that they have not been paid for four months.The board did not solve the issue on time, so the paper’s print and online editions were suspended on Tuesday.According to employees’ strike committee, it is an open-ended dispute which includes the newspaper’s advertising company Modeco. Established in 1951, it has highest circulation of all papers in Palestine. MEMO
China warns of war in case of move towards Taiwan independence
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/china/china-warns-of-war-in-case-of-move-towards-taiwan-independence/articleshow/70358721.cms
China's defence ministry warned today that it was ready for war if there was a move toward Taiwan's independence, accusing the US of undermining global stability and denouncing its arms sales to the self-ruled island. This month, Pentagon said US State Department had approved sales of weapons requested by Taiwan, including tanks and Stinger missiles estimated to be worth about $2.2 billion. China responded by saying it would impose sanctions on US firms involved in such a deal. China would make its greatest effort for peaceful reunification, defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said. "However, we must firmly point out that seeking Taiwan independence is a dead end," Wu told a news briefing on a national defence white paper, the first in several years to outline the military's strategic concerns. Reuters
Not exonerate Trump in Russia probe: Mueller
https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/trump-russia-probe-robert-mueller-says-he-did-not-exonerate-donald-trump/article28699944.ece?homepage=true
Ex-US Special Counsel Robert Mueller today defended the integrity of his Russia investigation during a dramatic congressional hearing and reiterated that he had not cleared President Donald Trump of obstruction of justice or, as the President has said, totally exonerated Trump. Mueller appeared for eagerly anticipated testimony at the first of two back-to-back congressional hearings that carry high stakes for Mr. Trump and Democrats who are split between impeaching him or moving on to the 2020 election.Ex-FBI director, who spent 22 months investigating Russian interference in 2016 US election and Trump's conduct, appeared first before the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee. The committee's Democratic chairman,Jerrold Nadler, praised Mueller and said no one including Trump is “above the law”.
Flash: NEWS, views, Articles
Draft Education Policy ignores role of states, fails to examine role of private sector, undermines importance of English: Abusaleh Shariff
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/draft-national-education-policy-dnep-hrd-narednra-modi-pokhriyal-5846120/
Between NIA Amendment and Now UAPA, the Squeeze on Human Rights is On:Sarim Naved
https://thewire.in/Govt/the-centre-wants-to-give-the-nia-more-powers-but-it-wont-explain-why
Helpline for victims of mob lynching launched:ZIYA US SALAM
https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/article28687012.ece
By elevating D Raja to post of general secretary, CPI makes history:Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/d-raja-communist-party-of-indiageneral-secretary-general-secretary-cpi-5846100/
Things are panning out in favour of a US-Pak thaw. Time may also be right for India-Pak normalisation: Khaled Ahmed
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/us-pakistan-donald-trump-imran-khan-kashmir-india-narendra-modi-5846093/
Compiled and edited by Anwarulhaq
(Released at: 8:56 PM)
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