*INDIA- ISLAMOPHOBIA, HUMAN RIGHTS & OTHERS*

Ram Mandir ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ In Ayodhya Finalised For Aug. 5. Advani, Joshi Not In Guest List?

https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-ram-mandir-bhoomi-pujan-in-ayodhya-finalised-for-august-5-advani-joshi-not-in-guest-list/357197

With August 5 finalised for Ram Mandir ‘bhoomi pujan’ in Ayodhya, there are reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other frontline leaders of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, including veteran leaders like L.K. Advani, are expected to attend the function.While govt sources confirm that Prime Minister has indeed been invited, he still has to give a confirmation whether he will attend the ‘bhoomi pujan’. “Invitation to him has been extended by Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and also by UP CM Yogi Adityanath but he hasn’t confirmed yet. Ultimately, he may just decide to go,” govt sources said.However, there seems to be no credence to reports about other veterans like Advani attending the function. While Trust, set-up by Centre to oversee the construction of the temple, claims they have invited stalwarts like Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who were at the forefront of Ram Mandir movement, sources close to the senior leaders say that they haven’t got any intimation. “How can anyone report that Advani ji will accompany PM when he hasn’t even got the invitation. Nobody has got in touch with him,” sources add. Even Joshi has got no invitation.In fact both the leaders are scheduled to appear before a special CBI court, through video conferencing, for recording their statements in Babri Masjid demolition case. Joshi is due to record his statement on July 23 and Advani, a day after. Other leaders who led the Ram Janmabhoomi movement include Joshi, Uma Bharti and Vinay Katiyar.

 

Amit Shah Meets BJP Veteran LK Advani Ahead Of Babri Case Hearing

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/union-home-minister-amit-shah-meets-bjp-veteran-lk-advani-ahead-of-babri-case-hearing-2267175?pfrom=home-topscroll

 Home Minister Amit Shah today called on veteran BJP leader LK Advani, who will record his statement in the 1992 Babri mosque demolition case on Friday. 92-year-old, named among the accused in the case related to the razing of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya, is expected to appear before a special CBI court via video link. Shah and Advani spoke for around 30 minutes. The court, through daily hearings, has to complete the trial and deliver its verdict by August 31.

 

RSS chief's informal visit, to discuss India-China, Ram temple issues

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rss-chiefs-informal-visit-to-discuss-india-china-ram-temple-issues/articleshow/77092137.cms

Bhopal: RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat arrived in Bhopal on a 5-day visit during which he will hold several informal meetings with Sangh core group committee members and senior BJP leaders. Bhagwat was accompanied by his deputy Bhaiyyaji Joshi.He would discuss several issues related to Covid-19 crisis, India-China stand off and preparations for the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, said sources."This is an informal meeting amid Covid-19 crisis. The Sangh Parivar has ceased all gatherings and meetings in the wake of strict Covid norms and to follow the social distancing guidelines. Bhagwat ji will hold informal discussions with only 20 leaders including all Sah Sarkaryavah (joint general secretary) and top Pracharaks, besides a few BJP leaders," disclosed a senior RSS functionary. "On the foundation ceremony, Sangh Parivar plans a major celebration throughout the day to mark the beginning of the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Bhagwat, alongwith other senior cadre, discussed the role of Sangh Parivar to create an atmosphere and encourage the people all over the country to get involved with the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya," said sources.TOI

 

Shiv Sena seeks closure of Babri demolition case before bhoomi pujan of Ram temple at Ayodhya

https://zeenews.india.com/india/shiv-sena-seeks-closure-of-babri-demolition-case-before-bhoomi-pujan-of-ram-temple-at-ayodhya-2297453.html

As Ayodhya gears up for Ram Temple bhoomi pujan on August 5, Shiv Sena editorial 'Saamana' in its latest article attacked BJP. Shiv Sena mouth piece brought out the contradiction of the situation that even as the foundation stone for the temple will be laid on August 5 by PM Narendra Modi in a ceremony at Ayodhya, there are some BJP leaders who are still engaged in a legal battle for demolition of Babri Masjid that once stood on the same ground.The article points to the contradiction that though the Supreme Court ruled in favour of construction of Ram Temple the case against veteran BJP leaders like LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi for the demolition of Babri Masjid still continues.The editorial questioned the turn of legal events and even claimed that if Babri case is dismissed before the Bhumi Pujan then it will be a tribute for the 'martyrs' who died for the cause.

 

Babri Mosque Demolition Case: Special CBI Court Records Statement of Accused Lodged in Jail

https://www.news18.com/news/india/babri-mosque-demolition-case-special-cbi-court-records-statement-of-accused-lodged-in-jail-2727285.html

Aspecial CBI court hearing the Babri mosque demolition case recorded the statement of accused Ram Chandra Khatri, who is lodged in a Haryana jail in another case. Khatri appeared on Tuesday through video-conferencing as he is in Sonipat jail. He had requested the special court to record his statement through video link. The court is recording statements of the 32 accused under Section 313 of CrPC to enable them to plead their innocence, if they so want.PTI

 

Delhi riots: HC dismisses fresh plea by police seeking cancellation of bail to school owner Faisal

https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/delhi-violence-hc-dismisses-fresh-plea-by-police-seeking-cancellation-of-bail--to-school-owner/1900361

Delhi High Court today dismissed a fresh plea by Delhi Police seeking cancellation of bail granted to the owner of a private school in a case related to communal violence in northeast Delhi during anti-CAA protests on the ground that a similar petition is already pending before it. While one petition filed on behalf of state challenging the bail granted to accused Faisal Farooq, owner of the private school, is already pending before the high court, another similar petition was now filed through another advocate.Justice Suresh Kumar Kait said as June 20 order of the trial court is already challenged in another petition, “the present petition is not maintainable and is dismissed”.The earlier petition was filed on behalf of the state by advocate Amit Mahajan who is also Central govt standing counsel and claimed that he was authorised by Delhi Police to file the matter.While the earlier petition is still pending and the court has already sought response of the accused school owner and has been hearing arguments, fresh plea has been filed through Special Public Prosecutor Amit Prasad who said he has been duly appointed by Lt.Governor to represent the state inriots related cases.Delhi govt standing counsel Rahul Mehra, who has been appointed by the full court of HC to represent the state in criminal matters, opposed the filing of the petition saying it was an attempt to do back door entry and they have created an artificial cause of action. He questioned how two petitions can be filed in the same court on same cause of action and by same parties and how can the registry allow listing of such a plea. The controversy over who will represent the police in Delhi violence related matters has been raised in HC repeatedly. The court allowed the request and listed the plea for July 24.PTI

 

Delhi riots: 40 organisations demand release of Gulfisha booked under UAPA

https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/delhi-riots-40-organisations-demand-release-of-gulfisha-fatima-booked-under-uapa/1900389

New Delhi: Over 40 organisations, including NGOs, have demanded the release of 27-year-old student Gulfisha Fatima who has been booked under the stringent UAPA for her alleged involvement in the riots in northeast Delhi and lodged in Tihar jail. Faitma was arrested on April 9, during the first phase of nationwide lockdown imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus infection."She has been falsely charged under draconian UAPA for daring to defend the Constitution and for peacefully resisting the anti-people CAA-NRC-NPR," alleged a statement signed by over 200 activists and lawyers."She was reportedly mentally tortured while in police custody. To add to that, her bail applications have been repeatedly rejected by the courts on technicalities," it alleged.They also demanded that the state immediately drop, what they claim, all "false" charges against Fatima. The statement added that the activists and lawyers stand by all other young activists, students and other leaders, including Safoora Zargar, Ishrat Jahan, Devangana Kalita, Natasha Narwal, Meeran Haider, Sharjeel Imam, Sharjeel Usmani, Khalid Saifi, Akhil Gogoi, Dhairjya Konwar, Bittu Sonowal, Manash Konwar, who were arrested during the anti-CAA protests.PTI

 

Congress to launch massive campaign in UP demanding the release of Dr Kafeel Khan

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/congress-to-launch-massive-campaign-in-up-demanding-the-release-of-dr-kafeel-khan

In a move which is likely to open another front in the ongoing political battle between resurgent Congress and the incumbent BJP in UP, grand old party has decided to launch a three-week-long signature campaign for the release of jailed Dr Kafeel Khan. Dr Kafeel Khan – a native of Gorakhpur, the city which UP CM Yogi Adityanath belongs to – has been languishing in Mathura jail for taking part in anti-CAA-NRC protests.The campaign for the release of Dr Kafeel Khan will be monitored by the head of UP Congress minority cell, Shahnawaz Alam who himself faced arrest allegedly for taking part in anti-CAA protest in Lucknow. After spending 16 days in jail, he was recently granted bail by Lucknow session court.According to the plan, from July 22 to August 12, a door-to-door signature campaign would be launched all over the state. People will be asked to sign memorandums and make videos demanding the release of Dr Kafeel.

 

San Francisco Becomes Sixth US City to Denounce CAA-NRC Human Rights Crisis in India

https://clarionindia.net/san-francisco-becomes-sixth-us-city-to-denounce-the-caa-nrc-human-rights-crisis-in-india/

Washington D.C.:San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed a resolution on Tuesday denouncing India’s draconian CAA, NRC and NPR.The resolution, passed by a unanimous vote at the Board’s meeting categorically opposes the CAA, NRC and NPR as “discriminatory to Muslims, caste oppressed, women, indigenous peoples, and LGBTQ community.” Alliance for Justice and Accountability (AJA), an umbrella organisation of progressive South Asian groups across US, in coordination with the local San Francisco community, has welcomed the resolution passed by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

 

AMU students angry with VC’s silence over Usmani’s arrest, say ‘assurances not implemented’

http://twocircles.net/2020jul21/438200.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Twocirclesnet-IndianMuslim+%28TwoCircles.net+-+Indian+Muslim+News%29

Aligarh:After the suspicious arrest of Sharjeel Usmani on 8 July, student community across the country are up in arms against what they perceive as ‘witch-hunting of students’.AMU students have voiced their disappointment over the silence of V-C over Usmani’s arrest.“This is not the first time that students have been betrayed. In the presence of V-C, it was concluded that there will be no FIR’s against the students by the district administration,” says Mashkoor Usmani, former president AMUSU. “Farhan Zuberi is also a victim of such a case where the VC had promised that there will be no FIR but now Farhan is in jail. He has got bail in all other cases except the 15 Dec.case. We were assured that the students are innocent and will not be charged but it has not happened,” he adds.Mashkoor Usmani said that there are many cases where DM and SSP assured the students in front of V-C but the promises were never carried through. “It seems VC is incapable. He should otherwise intervene and talk to the govt because he knows that there is no involvement of students in events that occurred on 15 Dec,” says ex AMUSU president.“It is clear that Union and UP govts is targeting students because they don’t want any dissent from the campuses,” he said.“VC should act as a responsible person and stop acting like a mouthpiece of RSS and should stand with his students,” said Hamza Masood, an AMU student.

 

Jamiat Wants to Place Minority Commission’s Report on Delhi Violence in HC

https://clarionindia.net/jamiat-wants-to-place-minority-commissions-report-on-delhi-violence-in-high-court/

Jamiat Ulema Hind on Tuesday told the Delhi High Court that it wants to place on record Delhi Minorities Commission’s fact-finding report about the North-east Delhi violence. Jamiat has filed a petition in the HC seeking constitution of a SIT to probe the violence.During Tuesday hearing of the petition, the Jamiat submitted that it supported the minority panel’s report and wanted to place it on record of the court, says LiveLaw.in. However, appearing for Delhi Police, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta contested Jamiat’s move and submitted that the parties should stick to the materials already on record. He also said that he would like to file a reply in case minority panel’s report is filed before the court. The court will hear the matter on July 27.

 

Delhi Riots: Accused Didn't See 'Bottomless Stupidity' of Propaganda to Avenge Muslims, Says Court

https://www.news18.com/news/india/delhi-riots-accused-didnt-see-bottomless-stupidity-of-propaganda-to-avenge-muslims-says-court-2727279.html

There was a well hatched conspiracy in the murder of a local youth during the northeast Delhi riots as in order to take revenge from Muslims, the accused, who failed to perceive the "bottomless stupidity" of propaganda, created a WhatsApp group as "saviours" of their community, a Delhi court has observed. The court made these observations while taking cognisance of the charge sheet filed against 11 persons in the case of the alleged murder of Aamir Khan whose body was found in a nearby drain in Gokulpuri area. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate said there was no doubt about it that prima-facie case for commission of the offence, as alleged, did exist.The court will next hear arguments on framing of charges against the accused in the case. In its order, the court further said: "The accused -- Lokesh Kumar Solanki, Pankaj Sharma, Sumit Chaudhary, Ankit Chaudhary, Prince, Rishabh Chaudhary, Jatin Sharma, Vivek Panchal and Himanshu Thakur-- have committed an offence under various sections of IPC. Offences entail a maximum punishment of death penalty. The court said members of WhatsApp group, named 'Kattar Hindu Ekta', lost their individuality and started working with mob mind and sacred slogans "deadened" their mind.PTI

 

Delhi riots: Court dismisses bail plea of accused Harinder Rawat who is clearly visible in CCTV footage

https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2020/jul/21/northeast-delhi-riots-court-dismisses-bail-plea-of-accused-who-is-clearly-visible-in-cctv-footage-2172739.html

NEW DELHI: A special court of Karkardooma district court has decided to dismiss the bail plea of an accused who is clearly visible in CCTV footage taking an active part in north-east Delhi violence in which several houses and shops were vandalised. Additional Session Judge Vinod Yadav decided to reject the bail plea of Harinder Rawat, an accused who was the active part of the violent mob which had vandalised, looted and put on fire more than 10 houses and shops in the area. The shop of the complainant was also looted and put on fire. The shop of the complainant Farukh Ali was also looted and put on fire. The complainant Farukh Ali has clearly identified the applicant to be part of the mob.

 

Rs18.67 crore disbursed to northeast riot victims: Delhi govt tells HC

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/rs18-67-crore-disbursed-to-northeast-riot-victims-delhi-govt-tells-hc/story-sRvAbbWoeZg6XNlocWotVK.html

Delhi govt has informed the Delhi High Court that it has disbursed Rs 18.67 crore as compensation to victims of the communal riots in northeast Delhi. In an affidavit filed through its additional standing counsel Sanjoy Ghose before a bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and justice Prateek Jalan, the government said that it has received 3,041 applications for compensation of which 1,526 have been approved.

 

Student bodies in Assam slam arrest of anti-CAA activist

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/student-bodies-in-assam-slam-arrest-of-anti-caa-activist/article32158635.ece

Students’ organisations in Assam have slammed the arrest of anti-CAA activist and Gauhati University student Dipjyoti Gogoi for posting on social media a fake flood-related fund-raising appeal in the name of CM Sarbananda Sonowal. Anti-CAA groups, however, claimed he was caught for allegedly reciting an anti-government poem on social media. The poem had references to peasant leader and anti-CAA activist Akhil Gogoi.Friends and members of Dipjyoti Gogoi’s family in eastern Assam’s Demow said he was whisked away in a white vehicle around 8 pm on July 20. The way he went “missing” for some time was likened to the case of AMU Sharjeel Usmani.

 

 

Hindutva March is Following the Path of German Nazis: Zafarul Islam Khan

https://clarionindia.net/hindutva-march-is-following-the-path-of-german-nazis-zafarul-islam-khan/

Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan demitted the office of Delhi Minority Commission as its chairman on July 19. In an Interview with Clarion India, Dr. Khan talks about his experiences of working as the DMC chief, hurdles in the Commission’s functions and the condition of minorities in India. On the present condition of minorities in India, Dr. Khan said, "Minorities and all marginalised classes are at the receiving end under the current regime. Attacks on Muslims and Christians continue unabated. Dalits and Adivasis are reeling under Hindutva supremacist attacks. Even Sikhs are extremely angry at present. This is a very serious matter for our country. The central government should set up a high-level commission to inquire into how we reached this impasse and how Hindutva forces have come to think that they can so fearlessly take the law into their hands and the whole system is dancing to their tunes. The commission should suggest a way out. The current Hindutva March is following the path the Nazis and fascists strode in Germany and Italy. "

 

Bombay HC acquits 2 for sending youths for terror training

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/aurangabad/hc-acquits-2-for-sending-youths-for-terror-training/articleshow/77093318.cms

Aurangabad: Aurangabad bench of Bombay High Court recently allowed criminal appeals by 2 men who were sentenced by a Jalgaon court to 10 years of imprisonment under Section 120-B of IPC in 2017 for their involvement in sending some suspects for terror training to Kashmir. While quashing and setting aside the Jalgaon court’s order, Justice R G Awachat observed: “On close scrutiny of the evidence in the case, it is found to be a case of no evidence against the appellants herein.” The two from Jalgaon were members of the banned SIMI. The trail court had acquitted the two appellants of 10 other charges, including waging war against the nation. It had, however, convicted them under Section 120-B of IPC for absconding till their arrest in 2006. Parvez Khan Riyazodding Khan (40), and Asif Khan alias Junaid Abdulla Basheer Khan (35) had approached the high court separately through lawyers Joydeep Chatterji and Asfiya N Ansari respectively, challenging the trail court verdict.

 

SC Notice To Prashant Bhushan For Tweet On 'Role Of 4 CJIs' In Destruction Of India's Democracy

https://www.huffingtonpost.in/entry/prashant-bhushan-twitter-contempt-supreme-court-hearing_in_5f17ce57c5b6296fbf3b1923

A Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra said on Wednesday that the contempt of court proceeding against activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan was related to two tweets posted by him in June and issued notices to Bhushan, the Attorney General and Twitter Inc. The court took up two tweets, one posted by Bhushan on June 27 about the “role of the SC” in destroying India’s democracy.The second was Bhushan’s tweet on June 29 with a photo of sitting CJI SA Bobde riding a motorcycle “belonging to a BJP leader”. Bhushan had also pointed out that CJI Bobde was not wearing “a mask or helmet”.The Bar&Bench had on Tuesday reported that this tweet was highlighted by petitioner in his contempt petition.“If court directs then we will disable alleged contemptuous tweets of lawyer Prashant Bhushan,” Twitter’s counsel told the SC. The SC had on Tuesday initiated suo motu (on its own) contempt proceedings against Bhushan for his alleged derogatory tweets against the judiciary.

 

Vadodara ‘custodial death’ of migrant worker Nisar: Accused cops booked for murder following HC’s direction

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/vadodara-custodial-death-accused-cops-booked-for-murder-following-gujarat-hcs-direction-6517435/

Ahmedabad: 6 policemen, who are accused in the alleged custodial death of a 65-year-old migrant worker, were booked for murder on Tuesday following directions of the Gujarat High Court. 6V adodara policemen were booked for the murder of Babu Sheikh Nisar, a migrant worker from Telengana, who went missing in December after being picked up on an alleged theft charge, by the Vadodara city police.The move came a day after the high court, while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by Nisar’s son Salim, enquired why accused were charged with IPC Section 304(culpable homicide not amounting to murder) instead of Section 302 (culpable homicide amounting to murder).The court yesterday directed the Vadodara police to book the accused for murder.

 

UP Journalist Shot in Front of Children in Ghaziabad Dies, Congress Slams 'Jungle Raj'

https://www.news18.com/news/india/up-journalist-shot-at-in-front-of-children-near-ghaziabad-dies-2727491.html

A journalist from UP, who was shot in Ghaziabad near Delhi by unknown persons on Monday, died on Wednesday morning at a hospital.The journalist, identified as Vikram Joshi, was attacked while he was returning from his sister's place on a motorcycle with his two daughters when a group of men opened fire at him. Joshi received a bullet injury on his head and was in a critical condition at city's Yashoda Hospital, reported ANI. SSP Kalanidhi Naithani said nine persons have been arrested, including two main accused — Ravi and Chotu. He added that an illegal weapon was also seized from their possession, ANI reported. Ghaziabad DM Ajay Shankar Pandey said chief minister has announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the family of the deceased and a job for his wife. Visuals of the attack were captured in CCTV footage of a road in Ghaziabad's Vijay Nagar area, where the attack took place. 9 people have been arrested in connection with a case.

 

Vikas Dubey killing: SC approves Uttar Pradesh government’s choice of retired judge for probe panel

https://scroll.in/latest/968269/vikas-dubey-killing-sc-approves-uttar-pradesh-governments-choice-of-retired-judge-for-probe-panel

The Supreme Court has approved the draft notification by Uttar Pradesh government to include retired top court judge BS Chauhan and former state DGP KL Gupta in the inquiry committee to probe the killing of gangster Vikas Dubey earlier this month. The Supreme Court also ordered that the panel should start its work within a week and submit its report within two months. The Supreme Court’s directives came after Uttar Pradesh government told it that Chauhan had agreed to be part of the committee, PTI reported.

Policemen spend entire lockdown at Vikas Dubey's residence, later destroyed him, alleges widow

https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/jul/21/policemen-spend-entire-lockdown-at-vikas-dubeys-residence-later-destroyed-him-alleges-widow-2172935.html

LUCKNOW: Opening up for first time after encounter killing of dreaded gangster Vikas Dubey, his widow Richa expressed faith in judiciary but pointed out how cops used to enjoy her husband’s hospitality all the time. While interacting with a few media persons at her residence in Krishna Nagar locality of Lucknow on Tuesday, Richa remembered the fateful night of July 2 when around 2 am Vikas Dubey called her up asking her to flee Lucknow as soon as possible as scores of people were killed. She followed her husband’s diktat and left Lucknow taking refuge at a friend’s place.

 

Rajasthan ex-royal ‘Raja’ Man Singh murder: 11 policemen including DSP sentenced to life imprisonment

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/rajasthan-ex-royal-raja-man-singh-murder-11-policemen-including-dsp-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment/article32161186.ece?homepage=true

A Mathura court on Wednesday sentenced 11 policemen including a then Deputy SP to life imprisonment for the murder of ‘Raja’ Man Singh, then titular head of the Bharatpur erstwhile princely state in Rajasthan, in 1985.A lawyer for the accused read out the Court’s decision before mediapersons a day after 11 policemen were convicted of the crime. 3 policemen, who were accused of forging the general diary entries and facing charges under Section 218 of the IPC, however, had been acquitted.Narayan Singh, lawyer for Man Singh’s family, also said the 11 cops including then DSP Kan Singh Bhati and SHO Virendra Singh were awarded life imprisonment for the murder.Of the 18 persons initially accused, three died during trial, while one had been discharged, said  Singh.The case had led to a political storm in the State leading to the resignation of the then Rajasthan Chief Minister. The incident took place on Feb.21, 1985 when Man Singh, then 64, and his two associates were shot dead by police a day after he had allegedly battered his military jeep into the stage set up for an election rally of CM Shiv Charan Mathur. Man Singh even resisted the waves of 1977 (Indira Gandhi) and 1980 (Janata Party) to win as an independent. In the 1985 Assembly elections, Congress fielded Brijendra Singh, a retired IAS officer, against Man Singh from Deeg seat.

 

Triple Talaq Cases Dropped By 82% Since Law Against It Came Into Force: Minister Naqvi

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/minority-affairs-minister-mukhtar-abbas-naqvi-about-82-per-cent-decline-in-triple-talaq-cases-since-law-enacted-by-modi-government-2267133

New Delhi: There has been about 82 per cent decline in triple talaq cases since the law against the "social evil" was put in place, Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said on Wednesday, terming August 1, when the legislation came into being as, "Muslim women's rights day".He also asserted the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, has taken its course whenever such a matter has been reported.In an article ''Triple Talaq-- Big Reform, Better Result'' which was posted by Press Information Bureau, Naqvi said triple talaq or talaq-e-biddat was neither Islamic nor legal, but social evil was still given "political patronage" by "merchants of votes"."One year has passed since the law against triple talaq was passed and there is a decline of about 82 per cent in triple talaq cases thereafter," Naqvi said, without elaborating on the figures of such cases.PTI

 

Cops Beat, Shave Dalit Man's Head After Complaint By MLA In Andhra

https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-cops-beat-shave-dalit-mans-head-after-complaint-by-mla-in-andhra-pradesh/357190

A Dalit youth had his head tonsured and was beaten up, allegedly by police, in East Godavari district, after a ruling YSR Congress party leader lodged a complaint over blocking of a sand-laden lorry.The incident came to light on Tuesday, inviting the wrath of opposition parties,following which CM Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy took a serious note of it and pulled up police.DGP D G Sawang said a Sub-Inspector at police station concerned has been arrested, while two constables were placed under suspension.A case has been registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, he said.A senior police officer said the Dalit youth was booked in a case filed by YSRC leader Kavala Krishna Murthy for allegedly blocking the truck that was reportedly transporting sand illicitly.PTI

 

Flood menace: 87 die, over 24 lakh marooned in Assam; 16 NDRF teams deployed in Bihar for rescue operations

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/flood-menace-87-die-over-24-lakh-marooned-in-assam-16-ndrf-teams-deployed-in-bihar-for-rescue-operations

Amid rising COVID-19 cases, the flood situation in Assam and Bihar remained grim on Tuesday while 2 more persons died in Nagaon and Morigaon districts, raising the death toll in monsoon deluge to 87, while around 24.20 lakh people in 24 of 33 districts continue to be marooned. Nearly 16 NDRF teams have been deployed in several districts in Bihar for flood rescue operations. Besides Assam, at least five people were killed in floods in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district where the deluge has affected about one lakh people during the past few days. Meanwhile, heavy monsoon rains affected normal life in most other northeastern states. The rainwater has inundated vast human habitations and low lying areas of Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram.IANS

 

For Muslim dominated Seemanchal in Bihar, floods bring added misery amid COVID-19 pandemic

http://twocircles.net/2020jul21/438206.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Twocirclesnet-IndianMuslim+%28TwoCircles.net+-+Indian+Muslim+News%29

Bihar: In Seemanchal, monsoon means floods. A Muslim dominated area, comprising of 4 districts is the seat of Bihar’s most deprived and poor citizenry. A major section of the residents are farmers and depend on agriculture for their sustenance. Each year, flood engulfs the entire region and destroys homes and crop fields, causing a dent to the economy.“Our whole livestock, our fields, our house, and all the savings are submerged now. We have nowhere to go. I don’t know where I will keep my family now” Nilesh, a peasant said. “Nitish (CM) has done nothing for us here. Every year the government promises to do something, nothing eventually happens. There is no one for the poor” he added.Locals say although flood is an annual occurrence, the Bihar government has not taken any concrete steps to control it.TwoCircles

 

Mukesh Ambani becomes world's 6th richest man, fortune swells over $2 billion in a day

https://www.indiatoday.in/business/story/mukesh-ambani-sixth-richest-man-world-billionaires-index-reliance-1703254-2020-07-22

Reliance Industries Limited Chairman Mukesh Ambani on Wednesday became the world’s sixth-richest man after his fortune surged by $2.12 billion in a single day, according to latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.According to the index, Ambani’s net worth at $74.3 billion is currently more than Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, an American investor and philanthropist Warren Buffet and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. It may be noted that the net worth of individuals listed on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index changes on a daily basis.

 

*SOUTH ASIA, INDO-PAK & J&K*

Chinese Betrayal? Ladakh Disengagement Slows Down, Say Sources: NDTV report

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-has-40-000-troops-at-lac-despite-de-escalation-promise-report-2267157?pfrom=home-bigstory

New Delhi: China has not pulled back troops from all the areas that it had intruded into Ladakh near LAC in May, govt sources have told NDTV.After several rounds of military talks, the Chinese have not held up their part in the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash with the Chinese on June 15. China's troops are still present in the Depsang Plains region, Gogra and Fingers region along Pangong Lake where India and China had started a mutual disengagement by creating a buffer zone between both sides. There has been disengagement in Galwan, Hot Springs and a part of Fingers region along Pangong Lake. However, sources say there has been no movement in Gogra as expected or in the Depsang plains. It also appears that Chinese do not want to move east from Finger 5, which they illegally occupy, to Finger 8-their traditional base in contested area.According to sources, Chinese are reluctant to move out of the Finger 5 area and retreat as they want to create an observation post in Finger area."Chinese have not shown any signs of deescalation as they continue to maintain their heavy troop deployment of almost 40,000 troops supported by heavy weaponry like air defence systems, armoured personnel carriers and long-range artillery in front and depth areas," ANI quoted sources.

 

China’s LAC stance expansive, goes beyond its1960 claim line:Tribune

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/chinas-lac-stance-expansive-goes-beyond-its1960-claim-line-116154

New Delhi:China’s actions along LAC in Ladakh seek to alter whatever is the approximate alignment at the undemarcated border, aiming to create fresh tussles in addition to 10 known points of dispute or differing perception.4 fresh disagreements—Galwan, patrol points (PP) 15 and 17A and Finger-4 at Pangong Tso—have separate implications. While Galwan is a fresh claim, other 3 fall in gray areas, implying these are geographically located between the multiple self-claimed boundaries of China and the Indian perception of LAC. Any construction or holding onto territory in disputed (or gray areas) is barred under agreement between the two countries. It is clearly an attempt to push India westwards to “fix” a fresh LAC that partly adheres to 1962 war-time position of PLA and partly to China’s own claim line of 1960, said a senior functionary. The disengagement process that started some two weeks ago has hit a hurdle as PLA is yet to fully pull back to points agreed upon by the two sides.

 

LAC standoff | India and China agree not to use UAVs indiscriminately at friction points in eastern Ladakh

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lac-standoff-no-indiscriminate-use-of-uavs-at-friction-points-in-eastern-ladakh-india-and-china-agree/article32163333.ece?homepage=true

Chinese and the Indian armies have agreed to not indiscriminately use unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at the friction points in eastern Ladakh along LAC. The confidence-building measure, however, has impacted the real-time verification of de-escalation process, as aerial objects cannot be used within 10 km of face-off sites, a senior govt official said.Earlier, two armies had agreed for a 30-day moratorium on foot patrolling at all the friction points while they pulled back from their positions.The official said that as of now, at none of the points, they were engaged in an eyeball to eyeball confrontation but a continuous verification was required and they were prepared for a long haul. Corps Commanders of both the armies have held 4 rounds of talks so far on June 6, 22, 30 and July 14 to de-escalate from build-up areas in Galwan Valley, Gogra- Hot Springs and Finger area along Pangong Tso (lake).

 

India Ideas Summit: Deeply Regret Death of 20 Indian Soldiers, Says Pompeo as He Assures to Reduce Dependence on China in Areas Like Medicine

https://www.news18.com/news/india/india-ideas-summit-live-updates-focus-on-better-future-in-post-pandemic-world-pm-modi-to-address-virtual-summit-pompeo-jaishankar-among-key-speakers-2728399.html

Expressing grief over killing of 20 Indian soldiers in Galwan Valley, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Chinese Communist Party is a mutual threat. He added that Washington will look to reduce dependence on China in areas like medicine. Pompeo said that US has always been supportive of India's security.The theme for this year's India Ideas Summit is 'Building a Better Future', a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday. The summit will feature high-level presence from Indian and US government policymakers, state-level officials, and thought leaders from business and society, it pointed out.

 

After Dahal stand down in round 1, fight with Oli is now for cabinet berths in Nepal reshuffle ahead

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/after-dahal-stand-down-in-round-1-fight-with-oli-is-now-for-cabinet-berths-in-nepal-reshuffle-ahead/story-wfwZmDbl8QPo1dukDKbsYN.html

After a dramatic stand down by Nepalese Communist Party co-chairman P K Dahal during a political duel with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli last week, the stage is now set for a possible cabinet reshuffle in the Himalayan Republic after the party standing committee meets on July 28. It is the allotment of cabinet berths to various factions of NCP which will define the politics ahead. While it is known that the morning meeting between co-chair Oli, Dahal and Madhav Nepal on July 15 was acrimonious to say least, it is still not clear who ensured the stand down from Dahal after a lunch with Nepalese PM the same day and at what cost. It is only after this crucial lunch meeting with 2 associates of 2 leaders negotiating on the sidelines that Oli refused to step down either from PM post or the party post and Dahal caved in by saying that he was opposed to the division of the party. Oli got a walkover in the duel last week and Dahal is now looking towards more Cabinet berths to maintain his political clout. Chinese envoy to Nepal, Hou Yonqi, on her part is preparing for another political battle ahead in an uncertain Nepal. “We do not know whether it was lure of incentives or threat of vulnerabilities that settled the round last week. But what is definitely know is that the Chinese had a major role to play in avoiding the bust-up,” said a western diplomat based in Kathmandu.

 

*INDIAN POLITICS*

SC to hear on July 23 Rajasthan Speaker’s plea challenging order to defer anti-defection proceedings

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajasthan-speaker-challenges-in-supreme-court-hc-order-to-defer-anti-defection-proceedings-against-pilot/article32158540.ece?homepage=true

A Supreme Court Bench led by Justice Arun Mishra is scheduled to hear on Thursday an appeal filed by Rajasthan Speaker’s office challenging the State High Court order to defer anti-defection proceedings against former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and 18 breakaway Congress MLAs till July 24. The other two judges on the Bench are Justices B.R. Gavai and Krishna Murari. The virtual court hearing will begin after 11 a.m. Pilot and the other legislators have filed a caveat petition in the court, saying “nothing should be done” without notifying them first.In a steady progression of events on Wednesday, Speaker C.P. Joshi’s office filed the special leave petition, through advocate Sunil Fernandes, three minutes to noon on Wednesday and within a day of the High Court order. Shortly after the petition was filed, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, while appearing in another case, happened to complain to CJI SA. Bobde about the lack of a proper mechanism to mention cases for urgent hearing in the current virtual court system. He said his team had been trying hard, but without success, to mention the Rajasthan Speaker’s case for an early hearing.CJI told Sibal that he would apprise the court Registry and see if the case could be put up before a Bench. By evening, the case was listed before Justice Mishra’s Bench.

 

Ashok Gehlot Writes To PM, Alleges Attempt To Topple Rajasthan Government

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-writes-to-pm-alleges-attempt-to-topple-rajasthan-government-2267170?pfrom=home-topscroll

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, battling rebellion by his former deputy Sachin Pilot that has pushed his government to the brink, has written to PM Narendra Modi alleging attempts by BJP to engineer defections by bribing Congress MLAs. In the letter dated July 19, Gehlot named Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat among BJP leaders he said were involved in deal-making with rebel Congress MLAs.

 

Rajasthan: ED Raids Ashok Gehlot's Brother In Alleged Fertiliser Scam

https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-enforcement-directorate-raids-ashok-gehlots-brother-in-alleged-fertiliser-scam/357186

Enforcement Directorate is conducting searches at the residence of Rajasthan Chief Minister’s brother Agrasen Gehlot in connection with an alleged scam in exporting fertiliser.ED also conducted searches at several locations in Rajasthan, West Bengal, Gujarat and Delhi in fertiliser scam.Raids are also being conducted at the residence of former MP Badri Ram Jakhar.Agrasen Gehlot is the promoter of a seeds and fertiliser company named Anupam Krishi. ED raids come at a time when CM Ashok Gehlot is battling to keep his government intact in Rajasthan after his former deputy, Sachin Pilot, rebelled along with 18 other MLAs.

 

*CORONAVIRUS- LOCKDOWN*

Sero-prevalence survey shows only tip of infection in Delhi: doctors’ forum

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/sero-prevalence-survey-shows-only-tip-of-the-infection-in-delhi-says-doctors-forum

Slamming the findings of sero-prevalence study conducted by National Center for Disease Control in Delhi, Progressive Medicos and Scientists Forum (PMSF) has stated that the sero-survey established the utter failure of Central and Delhi govts to control the spread of COVID-19 in Delhi. NCDC study had stated that 21,387 blood samples were collected as per lab standards and tests were done to help in identification of presence of antibodies in general population. The tests performed were not a diagnostic test but only provided information about past infection due to SARS CoV-2 in individuals who tested positive.The results of the sero-prevalence study show that across Delhi, on an average, prevalence of IgG antibodies is 23.48%. Study also indicates that a large number of infected persons remain asymptomatic. Patting the back of Delhi govt, NCDC study attributed the low prevalence to the proactive efforts taken by the state govt to prevent the spread of infection including prompt lockdown, effective containment and surveillance measures.

Maharashtra: Minister Abdul Sattar, MP Fauzia Khan test positive for COVID

https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/coronavirus/news/maharashtra-minister-abdul-sattar-mp-fauzia-khan-test-positive-for-covid-19/articleshow/77100776.cms

Another minister and a MP from Maharashtra have tested positive for coronavirus. Abdul Sattar, MLA from Sillod and Minister of State (MoS) in Uddhav Thackeray led Maha Govt has tested positive for the virus.The minister is the fifth member of the state government to have contracted the virus.Sattar took to Twitter to inform his followers. "There was a little doubt, therefore, did a COVID-19 test. Unfortunately, the report has come positive. However, there is no need to worry. I might have contracted the virus while being engaged in pandemic relief work."Sattar also said that he will soon be fine and back in service of the people. NCP's Rajya Sabha member Fauzia Khan too has tested Covid-19 positive. She was detected positive in the antigen test conducted in Parbhani. Just a day ago, Congress leader Aslam Shaikh who is also Cabinet and Mumbai's Guardian Minister in the Thackeray government, tested positive for COVID-19. The other 3 ministers who too tested positive and recovered include - NCP's Dhananjay Munde and Jitendra Awhad and Congress'Ashok Chavan.Mirror Online

 

 6-day complete lockdown reimposed in Kashmir

https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/coronavirus-6-day-complete-lockdown-reimposed-in-kashmir-as-cases-surge-1703238-2020-07-22

Srinagar:Jammu and Kashmir administration has reimposed a 6-day lockdown in Kashmir Valley till July 27 after a sharp spike in coronavirus cases over the last three weeks. The lockdown has been imposed in entire Kashmir Valley except for Bandipora district.However, movement of goods carriers, LPG and oil tankers will continue unhindered,   J&K admin added. Agriculture, horticulture and construction activities will also continue. A senior official said that the relaxation of lockdown will depend on how situation is after 6 days.There has been a sharp jump in Covid-19 cases in Kashmir Valley and it accounts for 243 of 263 deaths reported so far in the union territory.indiatoday

 

3-day lockdown in some areas of Bhopal from today

https://www.livemint.com/news/india/three-day-lockdown-in-some-bhopal-areas-from-today-11595377112518.html

Bhopal: There would be a lock-down in some areas of Bhopal from Tuesday midnight to July 24, district officials said. The decision was taken in view of a sudden spike in coronavirus cases in Bhopal during the past fortnight, they said. The lockdown will be applicable in several localities in Old Bhopal under Kotwali, Mangalwara and Hanumanganj police station areas, some areas of Bagsewania area under Kolar sub- division, and some areas of Kamla Nagar police station.PTI

 

Goats aren’t gadgets that can be ordered online:Maha Muslims

https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/coronavirus/news/goats-arent-gadgets-that-can-be-ordered-online/articleshow/77096108.cms

Maharashtra govt’s guidelines for observance of Eid-al-Adha that stipulates online purchase of animals for sacrifice has met with a stiff opposition from people within the community. According to guidelines issued last Thursday, goats for sacrifice could only be bought or sold online.The people fear that traders could cheat them by selling defective cattle, which is against Islamic rules for qurbani. Advocate Adil Khatri said that there are only a few farms engaged in online trade of goats in Mumbai, and traders, who are mainly from rural areas, are not themselves well-versed with e-commerce. This coupled with a lack of clarity on method of online buying has caused confusion within the community.“We cannot buy the animal online because as per Islamic ritual, we have to check whether it has defects,” he said.Imran Firoz, a Bandra resident, said if one checks online, one would see only a handful of people selling goats online.“The vendors are usually farmers from Rajasthan, UP and they are not literate enough to sell online. Traditionally, sacrificial animals have been sold at mandis. On OLX, livestock is sold sometimes for personal use, but not for qurbani. But that too is done after proper inspection,” said Firoz.All India Jamiatul Quresh, told Mirror that government should have consulted Muslim religious scholars before issuing guidelines for Bakri Eid.

 

Muslim MLAs likely to meet Pawar over restrictions on Eid-ul Adha celebrations

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/muslim-mlas-likely-to-meet-pawar-over-restrictions-on-eid-ul-adha-celebrations-6517367/

Mumbai :A delegation of Muslim MLAs and community leaders is planning to reach out to NCP president Sharad Pawar to seek relaxations to celebrate Eid-ul Adha or Bakri Eid on August 1 amid Covid-19 .The delegation, to be led by Rais Shaikh, Samajwadi Party MLA from Bhiwandi, is set to request Pawar to intervene to ensure the state government reviews its recent guidelines that have prohibited the sale of animals, for purpose of sacrifice, in open markets across Maharashtra. He has sought time to meet Pawar on Wednesday.

Mutton prices may come down in Delhi as only slaughterhouse, main livestock market in Gazipur opens

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/more-on-plate-mutton-prices-may-come-down/articleshow/77096289.cms

New Delhi:Mutton prices are finally likely to come down as the only slaughterhouse of the city and the main livestock market at Ghazipur will restart functioning from Wednesday. The abattoir was closed 4 months ago because of the novel coronavirus-induced crisis.East Delhi mayor Nirmal Jain said that disinfection of the area was being carried out and the slaughterhouse would restart functioning from Wednesday. “The livestock market had briefly opened on Monday. Both the units will be fully functional from Wednesday,” Jain said. An agreement on conditional operational lease extension has been reached between the corporation and the private concessionaire who runs the slaughterhouse. The lease of the company had expired in August last year itself. Traders operating in the market say that while meat sales in the ongoing Sawan month remain low, they expect them to pick up in coming days because of Eid. Ghazipur slaughterhouse was shut down on March 24. Since then, city has been facing acute shortage of meat. Gulfam Qureshi, who heads the local livestock market at Ghazipur, said that the lease-related matter has been sorted and both buffalo and goat-sheep sections have been reopened. “Around 1,200 traders and many farmers from neighbouring states will benefit from the reopening of the abattoir,” he added. Qureshi said “22 trucks of goats and sheep and seven trucks of buffaloes have arrived from UP, Rajasthan and Haryana. Eid is coming and it will help revive a large number of livelihoods,” he added. Delhi Meat Merchant Association head Mohammad Arshad Qureshi said that all machinery will be cleaned before the abattoir resumes functioning on Wednesday.TOI

 

98 Delhi Mosque Event Foreign Attendees Pay Fine, Allowed To Walk Free

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-98-delhi-mosque-event-foreign-attendees-pay-fine-allowed-to-walk-free-2267183

A Delhi court Wednesday allowed 98 Indonesians to walk free on payment of different fines, after they accepted mild charges under the plea bargain process, related to various violations including visa norms while attending Tablighi Jamaat congregation during lockdown. Metropolitan Magistrate Saema Jameel allowed the Indonesians to walk free on payment of a fine of Rs 5,000 each, said advocates Fahim Khan and Ahmed Khan, appearing for them. Two Indonesians however did not plead guilty to the charges against them and claimed trial before the court.PTI

 

India's Covid Recovery Rate Rises To 63.13% With Over 28,000 Patients Recuperating In 24 Hours

https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-covid-recovery-rate-rises-to-6313-with-over-28000-patients-recuperating-in-24-hours/357199

India's COVID-19 recovery rate rose to 63.13 per cent today with a record 28,472 patients recuperating from the disease in 24 hours, while the case fatality rate further dropped to 2.41 per cent, Union Health Ministry said. According to ministry data updated at 8 am, recoveries have surged to 7,53,049 exceeding active cases of Coronavirus infection by 3,41,916. Case fatality rate has dropped to 2.41 per cent from Tuesday's 2.43 per cent. It was 3.36 per cent on June 17.

 

JNU's ex professor of Arabic Farooqi passes away

https://milligazette.com/news/1-community-news/33644-jnus-former-professor-arabic-faizanullah-farooqi-passes-away/?fbclid=IwAR2DSV8XQovunK_YdDyBjX-5SoUSFtvw30oTOsT19ETAdEjdPxJ5JvI_pZY

New Delhi:JNU's former professor of Arabic, Janab Faizanullah Farooqi passed away today. He was not well and tested positive for Corona a week ago and was under treatment at Fortis Escorts Hospital. He breathed his last at 2 am early this morning. Faizanullah Saheb taught at Centre for Asian and African Studies, JNU till his retirement in 2017. He was a great scholar and critic of Arabic and Islamic Studies and a poet of Arabic, Persian and Urdu. Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan tweeted, "He was a distinguished scholar of Arabic who enriched teaching of Arabic in India and enhanced Indo-Arab relations. He had translated most parts of my Arabic book on methodology of research which is available in Urdu as "Usool-e Tahqiq". He leaves behind a rich legacy and many sad hearts." Milli Gazette

 

Govt extends work from home norms for IT, ITes companies till Dec 31

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/govt-extends-work-from-home-norms-for-it-ites-companies-till-dec-31

The government has said it has extended connectivity norms for work from home for IT and BPO companies till Dec 31. The time period for work from home was expiring on July 31.PTI

 

COVID lockdown impact: With limited customers, UP restaurants to shut down again

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/covid-19-lockdown-impact-with-limited-customers-up-restaurants-to-shut-down-again

Hospitality industry in UP is unable to regain its business in the unlock phase, mainly due to the fear of the pandemic and the restrictions imposed by the govt.While 60 to 70 per cent eateries opened up after the state govt gave the nod last month, half of them are planning to shut down again following lack of customers.55-hour weekend shutdown now has worked as a catalyst."The food industry deals with perishable items and cannot afford these frequent shutdowns. It is better to shut the business rather than keep suffering losses," said Gokul, who runs a sweet shop in Gomti Nagar.IANS

 

Schools in Andhra to reopen on Sept. 5: Minister

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/lkg-ukg-in-govt-schools-from-this-academic-year-minister/article32154427.ece?homepage=true

AP Minister for HRD Adimulapu Suresh has announced the commencement of pre-primary education, Lower Kindergarten and Upper Kindergarten, in all the government schools from coming academic year. Suresh also announced that the schools in the State would reopen on September 5 in line with the guidelines issued by the Central government.

 

Manipur goes into complete lockdown for 14 days

https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/manipur-complete-lockdown-14-days-guidelines-coronavirus-636279

Manipur will go under complete lockdown for 14 days, starting 2 pm tomorrow. Earlier on Tuesday, COVID-19 tally in Manipur crossed 2,000-mark with the detection of 90 new cases. The total tally now stands at 2,015 of which 631 are active cases. 64 people also recovered from COVID-19 on Tuesday, taking the total number of recovered persons to 1,384. COVID-19 recovery rate in the state is 68.68 percent.

 

Oman to impose curfew and travel bans for Eid

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200721-oman-to-impose-curfew-and-travel-bans-for-eid/

Oman will ban travel between all its governorates from July 25 to August 8, a period that includes a Muslim holiday, to prevent spread of the new coronavirus. A statement from Health Ministry described the measure as a “total lockdown” of all governorates. Gulf state will also implement a daily curfew from 7 pm to 6 am during the period, which includes the Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday period. Shops and public spaces will be closed during the hours of curfew.Oman, a country of 4.7 million people, recorded 1,458 new case of infection on Tuesday and 11 deaths, taking the total tally to 69,887 cases and 337 deaths.

 

Nepal ends 120 days of coronavirus lockdown

https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/latest-37000-cases-india-testing-urged-71890152

 Nepal’s government has ended a lockdown 120 days after it was imposed to control the spread of coronavirus.Information Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada said the number of cases was declining in Nepal.Govt and private offices would be fully functional from Wednesday and all private and public vehicles would be allowed back on the streets. All the markets, malls and shops would be also be allowed to open. However, airports and commercial flights would resume only on Aug. 1. Khatiwada said schools and colleges would remain closed until further notice. Prohibition would continue on large public gatherings, religious functions, parties, gymnasium, zoo and parks.The lockdown was first imposed in March and it was renewed several times. The country has 17,994 confirmed cases and 40 deaths from coronavirus.AP

 

Wuhan welcomes tourists 100 days after lifting coronavirus-induced lockdown

https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-welcomes-tourists-100-days-after-lifting-coronavirus-induced-lockdown-315171

The initial epicentre of COVID-19, Wuhan in China welcomed its first group of tourists since the lockdown ended over 100 days ago.Situated in the Hubei province, the first tour in the city known for its culture opened up. Meanwhile, the country is experiencing one of the worst floods in its history at the moment. Large areas in the country still remain submerged, and homes destroyed. Millions are affected by the devastating floods.

 

Bihar BJP MLC Sunil Kumar Singh dies of COVID-19

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bihar-bjp-mlc-sunil-kumar-singh-dies-of-covid-19/article32157403.ece

Bihar BJP MLC Sunil Kumar Singh, 69, died of COVID-19 late on Tuesday. He is the first legislator from Bihar to die of coronavirus. The State has seen a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the last 10 days.A 3-member Central team led by Joint Secretary of Health and Family Welfare Ministry Luv Agrawal had visited the State recently and suggested several measures to check the spread of COVID-19.

COVID in Bihar: As bodies lie unattended in hospitals, BJP-JDU leaders spar over Rahul Gandhi’s tweet

https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/india/covid-19-in-bihar-as-bodies-lie-unattended-in-hospitals-bjp-jdu-leaders-spar-over-rahul-gandhis-tweet

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks that COVID-19 situation in Bihar was critical and that bodies lying unattended in hospitals in the state exposed its claim of susashan (good governance) are based on media reports.But the manner in which BJP and second rung JDU leaders have reacted to it has put a big question mark on the political culture that ruling leaders have adopted of late. They have questioned the very right of Congress leader to speak on the state of affairs in Bihar.Gandhi’s tweeted:“Corona pandemic-triggered situation in Bihar is critical; it has slipped beyond the control of the state government. The unattended bodies lying in the hospital wards expose the claim of the good governance of Bihar”. The tweet tagged a newspaper report which was based on TV footage. The BJP spokesman, Nikhil Anand said, “Rahul is spreading verbal corona in India”.

 

22 Million Children From South Asia Missed Out On Early Education Due To COVID-19: UNICEF

https://www.ndtv.com/education/22-million-children-from-south-asia-missed-out-on-early-education-due-covid-19-unicef

 Nearly 22 million children from South Asian countries, including India, have missed out on early childhood education in their critical pre-school year due to coronavirus outbreak, according to a new research by UNICEF. The research brief released on Wednesday looks at the state of childcare and early childhood education globally and includes an analysis of the impact of widespread COVID-19 closure of vital family services.In South Asia region, UNICEF covered Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for the research.

 

*WORLD*

UN: COVID efforts hampered amid Israeli-Palestinian breakdown

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/07/covid-19-efforts-hampered-israeli-palestinian-breakdown-200722111602590.html

The sharp deterioration in coordination between Israeli and Palestinian officials as Israel threatens to annex large parts of the occupied West Bank has hurt efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus, UN has said. The warning on Tuesday came hours after Israeli forces demolished a structure used as a quarantine centre for people suspected of having the virus in West Bank city of Hebron, sparking outrage among Palestinians. "Regrettably, situation on ground is rapidly being affected by the dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel," Nickolay Mladenov, UN's special envoy for Middle East peace, told UNSC. "I am also concerned that we are far below the level of coordination that existed in the beginning of the year, when first wave of the virus hit. This situation could have serious repercussions on the ability to control its spread and its impact on people's lives," he added. UN officials have repeatedly warned Israel to abandon "illegal" plans to annex large swaths of West Bank, including parts of the strategic Jordan Valley, in line with US President Donald Trump's "Middle East plan".Palestinian leadership has rejected the controversial proposal and said it was no longer bound by past agreements with Israel and US.

 

Israel: Anger over Netanyahu's virus response, corruption charges

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/07/israel-anger-netanyahu-virus-response-corruption-charges-200722091639610.html

Dozens of Israeli demonstrators have been arrested after chaining themselves together and briefly blocking the entrance to Parliament, as protests against PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his government grow louder.The gathering in West Jerusalem on Wednesday was called to protest against an upcoming vote to grant the government sweeping authority to bypass Knesset - Israel's parliament-in enacting measures to combat the rapid spread of the new coronavirus. At least 34 protesters were arrested. It came the morning after a night of intense street protests, in the latest outpouring of discontent with Netanyahu and his government over the handling of the pandemic. Public anger has been compounded by corruption allegations against long-serving prime minister, who went on trial in May for bribery, fraud and breach of trust - charges he denies.

 

Israel ‘uncovers terror cell’ in occupied West Bank

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-israel-uncovers-terror-cell-in-occupied-west-bank/

Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, claimed on Tuesday that it had uncovered a Palestinian “terror” cell in the occupied West Bank linked to Iran and Hezbollah, local media have reported. According to Ynet News, cell was operating under the cover of a humanitarian aid agency. One of those arrested, Yazan Abu Salah, 23, is a known operative of Popular Front for Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). He apparently told Israeli interrogators that the attacks planned by the cell included the abduction of a soldier from the occupation army who could be swapped with Palestinian prisoners held in harsh conditions in Israeli jails. Abu Salah, who was arrested in April, allegedly acknowledged that he bought weapons and recruited people to carry out attacks in Ramallah and the north of the West Bank. He is reported to have claimed that he received funds from Iran and Hezbollah, and that members of the cell were planning to travel to Lebanon for weapons training and instruction in operating drones.

Hezbollah fighter killed by Israel strike in Syria

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-hezbollah-fighter-killed-by-israel-strike-in-syria/

Lebanese Hezbollah has said one of the group’s fighters was killed in an Israeli strike which struck near Damascus airport, south of the city, on Monday night. Ali Kamel Mohsen, a Hezbollah fighter originally from southern Lebanon, was declared a martyr in a death notice which was later confirmed by the group. According to a report by Reuters, Mohsen is believed to have died during Israeli strikes on Monday, which targeted, and hit, an Iranian-backed ammunition store based in the outskirts of the Syrian capital.

 

Hamas calls for Yarmouk refugee camp in Syria to be rebuilt

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-hamas-calls-for-yarmouk-refugee-camp-in-syria-to-be-rebuilt/

Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement called for rebuilding of Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus to be speeded up so that residents can return, a senior official has said.Raafat Morra commented on the plan to rebuild the refugee camp and stressed the importance of the refugees being allowed to go back to their homes from which they have been displaced. The camp represents safety and security for them, he pointed out, and so rebuilding the camp is a humanitarian and social necessity.Hamas official rejected any changes to the refugee camp or ownership of the land. Yarmouk, explained Morra, is a symbol for Palestinian presence in Syria and, indeed, for all Palestinian refugees and their identity and culture.

 

‘Put Palestine back on the map,’ demands American singer Madonna

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-put-palestine-back-on-the-map-demands-madonna/

American singer, songwriter and actress Madonna expressed solidarity with Palestine over the weekend in a series of Instagram posts protesting against the removal of the occupied Palestinian territories from Google maps. Madonna’s solidarity with Palestine coincided with the launch of a petition calling on Google to explain its decision, which more than a million people have signed.

 

‘Saudi is legally responsible for war crimes in Yemen,’ insists Nobel Laureate

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-saudi-arabia-is-legally-responsible-for-war-crimes-in-yemen-insists-nobel-laureate/

Yemeni activist and 2011 Nobel Laureate Tawakkol Karman has said that Saudi Arabia is “legally responsible” for all the crimes of the Arab coalition it leads in her country. “Saudi Arabia is the one who is leading the coalition formally and practically… This is what the world knows and what has been announced,” Karman wrote on Facebook. “Saudi Arabia therefore bears legal responsibility for all the crimes committed by Arab Coalition, whether the perpetrator is Saudi Arabia or one of the member states. To say that UAE is guilty of laundering Saudi crimes, on the one hand, and tempting the Saudi army to continue to mess with the Yemenis’ lives, on the other, is useless.”The human rights activist made her comment after it was reported that French judiciary has opened an investigation against Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Zayed who is accused of complicity in the torture of prisoners in Yemen detention centres controlled by the UAE armed forces. French can look into such cases on the basis of universal jurisdiction.

 

Qatar denies allegations it supports Yemen’s Houthis

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-qatar-denies-allegations-it-supports-yemens-houthis/

Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denied allegations that it backed the Houthis in Yemen in their efforts to overthrow UN-recognised government, based in Saudi Arabia. On Monday, exiled PMMoeen Abdul Malik Saeed accused Qatar of backing Houthi movement, which forms part of National Salvation Government (NSG), based in Yemeni capital Sanaa.His comments were made in a speech delivered during his visit to Egypt yesterday, according to MENA. Qatar’s the Peninsula reported that Foreign Ministry expressed “deep surprise” that Doha was accused of being involved in Yemen war. Qatar has also conveyed its “categorical rejection and denunciation of the false accusations made by Yemeni PM”.

 

IOM: Over 100,000 Yemenis have been displaced since beginning of 2020

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-iom-over-100000-yemenis-have-been-displaced-since-beginning-of-2020/

More than 100,000 people have been displaced in Yemen since the beginning of the year due to fighting, insecurity and the spread of COVID-19, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said.“It has been nearly six years since the war erupted in Yemen, but the conflict is still raging,” UN organisation said in a report, adding that since the beginning of the year, more than 100,000 people have been displaced in Yemen, most of them due to fighting and insecurity. “However, COVID-19 is beginning to emerge as a new cause of internal displacement across the country,” it warned.

 

Qatar Airways sues Saudi-led bloc over blockade

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/qatar-airways-sues-saudi-led-bloc-over-blockade/1918788

Qatar Airways has submitted 4 international arbitration requests for $5 billion in compensation from a Saudi-led bloc that imposed a blockade on the Gulf state in mid-2017.“The decision by the blockading states to prevent Qatar Airways from operating in their countries and flying over their airspace is a clear breach of civil aviation conventions and several binding agreements they are signatories to,” Qatar Airways CEO Akbar al-Baker said in a statement.The company is seeking compensations of at least $5 billion from the four countries for closing their airspaces to the flag carrier.

 

Kuwait sentences ex-MP to 6 months in prison for insulting UAE

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-kuwaiti-sentences-ex-mp-to-6-months-in-prison-for-insulting-uae/

Kuwaiti Court of Appeal on Monday sentenced former lawmaker and lawyer, Nasser Al-Duwailah, to six months in prison and fined him 2,000 dinars ($6,500) after finding him guilty of offending UAE, Kuwait’s Al-Anbaa paper reported. Earlier in February, the Criminal Court acquitted Al-Duwailah of the same charges, however the prosecution appealed the verdict and demanded he be charged with violating the Cyber Crime Law over posts he made on Twitter.

 

Assad’s Baath Party wins Syria election, as expected

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-assads-baath-party-wins-syria-election-as-expected/

Syria’s ruling Baath Party has won a majority in the country’s parliamentary election according to the result declared. The win for President Bashar Al-Assad was seen widely as unsurprising and expected through the questionable election process held over the weekend.Assad’s Baath and allied candidates who ran under National Unity list won 177 out of 250 seats. The head of Syria’s electoral commission, Samir Zamreeq, said that any candidate not satisfied with the result “is entitled to submit his complaint within three days” starting from today.  The poll has been condemned as fraudulent and mere theatrics aimed at presenting a democratic face to the international community.

Israeli intelligence unit struggles to fight brain drain

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200722-israeli-intelligence-unit-struggles-to-fight-brain-drain/

Israel’s army intelligence unit 8200 is struggling to fight a brain drain of its personnel into the private sector, Safa news agency reported on Tuesday.In an effort by the 8200 unit to reverse the trend, it has started to ask reservists to sign a conflict of interest form. The departure of highly qualified personnel to civilian technology companies has the potential to leak sensitive technology and information.The unit is also seeking to halt attempts by private security firms to get the better of it in the security and cybersecurity sector so that it loses its reputation.

 

 

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Important for Tablighi Jamaat to speak on issues of Islamic interests: Author of new book

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Why’re Delhi Police Targeting Innocents Instead of Pursuing Plotters of Anti-Muslim Riots?Ghazanfar Abbas | Clarion India

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 Compiled and edited by Anwarulhaq (Released at: 9:00 PM)