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Hyderabad church accused of converting over 3,000 Hindus every month: How UK-linked Cavalry ‘Temple’ is spreading its tentacles in India

Anurag
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Hyderabad church accused of converting over 3,000 Hindus every month: How UK-linked Cavalry ‘Temple’ is spreading its tentacles in India

On Saturday, 26th October, a video of CBN News (The Christian Broadcasting Network Inc) went viral on social media platform X which talked about Calvary Temple, a church in Hyderabad converting 3,000 Hindus every month to Christianity. Paster Satish, who runs the “Mega Church” Calvary Temple, claimed that they have done over 3.5 Lakh Hindu conversions to Christianity so far and planning to establish 40 Calvari-like Churches across India in the next 10 years. In the video, shared by journalist Devika Rani, CBN claimed that Hindu organisations including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are trying to stop their activities in India.

Satellite church premised and sealed by administration

On Monday, 28th October 2024, Legal Rights Protection Forum shared on social media platform X that following orders from the Kakinada District Collector, revenue officials have confiscated the Calvary Temple which was a digital church branch operated by Pastor Satish Kumar from Hyderabad. It is unclear if any complaint was filed or why the action was taken. Following the closure of this Satellite branch, there are still 10 more operating apart from the main church.

Pushing foreign powers to meddle with India’s affairs revolving around religious freedom

In a video shared by X handle missionkali in 2020, Pastor Satish was heard saying that he managed to stay out of the government’s radar as he does not use words like conversion or forced conversion. He said, “The government is happy that we are providing free food to the poor”. Interestingly, during a pandemic, they claim to have distributed 700 tons of food and medicines to the needy. It is not hard to guess how they have used this “noble” cause for luring vulnerable Hindus.

A post by then-Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, was also included in the video, showing Satish meeting with him and discussing “the importance of protecting religious freedom.” Satish, on one hand, claims he enjoys religious freedom in India, yet on the other, he meets with foreign leaders, enabling them to meddle in India’s affairs.

The US has particularly interfered in India’s internal matters concerning religious freedom for decades, especially since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) publishes annual reports on India that often target Hindus and the current government, alleging discrimination against minorities.

Satish meeting then-US VP Milke Pence. Image source: VP45 archive X account.

About Calvary Temple India

Calvary Temple India was founded by Dr. Satish Kumar in 2005. He is often described as a “widely respected” pastor, author, and international speaker, credited with visionary leadership and “integrity.” Yet, such titles raise questions when examined against the backdrop of his missionary activities. Pastor Satish’s emphasis on “biblical standards” appears strategically tailored to increase his following, especially given his goal of aggressive conversions in India. Though he claims to embody humility and accessibility, his methods suggest a calculated approach to influence and control under the guise of humanitarianism.

The growth of Calvary Temple has been praised extensively on its website, with claims of having 400,000 members. Such rapid expansion of the church raises serious concerns about its reliance on resources and the tactics used to influx funding to target vulnerable Hindus. Calvary Temple also claims the church was constructed in just 52 days. When considered alongside initiatives like Calvary Bible College and Calvary Hospital, as well as the free meals provided, it appears to be less about philanthropy and more about building a religious empire.

Church is actively converting 3,000 Hindus every month

Though the news report by CBN was supposed to be in favour of the Calvary Temple, it accidentally exposed the modus operandi of the missionary group’s operations. Calvary Temple claims to be India’s largest church, with a congregation of over 300,000 members. Led by Pastor Sathish Kumar, it converts at least 3,000 Hindus to Christianity every month. Though Christian media celebrates this as a mark of success, it highlights the controversial overreach of the church.

Massive campus and mandatory attendance

The church has a vast campus in Hyderabad, including multiple facilities to accommodate thousands of attendees every Sunday. Traffic starts to pile up as early as 4 AM, and church members, seen in the video, are “controlling” the traffic and managing the crowd. Every Sunday, five services take place, extending from early morning to evening. Interestingly, church members are reportedly compelled to attend the Sunday mass, with absentees receiving a call from the church inquiring about their absence. Pastor Kumar proudly preaches all five services, calling it a divine mission to “reach India’s lost with the gospel.”

Exploiting vulnerability under the guise of charity

Calvary Temple’s conversion practices target vulnerable Hindus, exploiting their poverty and economic instability under the guise of charity. CBN reported that every Sunday, Calvary Church offers three free meals to attendees. The number of attendees dining at Sunday mass reaches up to 50,000, amounting to 200,000 free meals monthly. In addition to free food, the church also offers free medical services, marriage arrangements, and funeral arrangements, as calculated measures to lure Hindus into conversion.

Contrast with Hindu charity practices

Notably, thousands of Hindu temples and organisations offer similar services to society without seeking conversions. For example, free food, or ‘bhandara,’ is provided at many temples three times daily throughout the year. Despite their societal contributions, Hindu temples are often viewed with suspicion and face scrutiny over claims of caste discrimination. Meanwhile, Calvary Church’s kitchen, open only on Sundays, is celebrated as if it is performing exceptional service for society.

Ambitious nationwide and global expansion

The church has already established 11 satellite churches and plans to build 40 mega-churches across India within the next decade. Pastor Kumar envisions his church reaching Hindus and other communities in India and beyond. This expansionist approach raises serious concerns about the influence of foreign Christian organisations on India’s religious fabric, as the church broadcasts television programmes in multiple Indian languages, reaching millions across South Asia and Gulf countries.

Intrusive tracking system raises concerns

One of the church’s most problematic practices is its tracking system, which requires members to swipe an access card to attend Sunday mass. The church claims this system helps track attendance and follow up with absentees. However, this level of surveillance within a religious setting is alarming and should raise concerns among government institutions, given its intrusive nature and the influence and control it exercises over its members.

Misleading claims of persecution

Calvary Church has alleged that “Hindu extremist groups” have escalated attacks on Christians. The labelling of Hindu organisations stems from their efforts to stop forced conversions conducted under the guise of free meals, medical treatment, or “miracles.” Hindu organisations, including the RSS, have been working extensively to prevent such conversion attempts, which has unsettled missionaries globally.

No clarity on where funds for building the church came from

In the chapter “Global, ‘Glocal’ and Local Dynamics in Calvary Temple: India’s Fastest Growing Megachurch” from the book “Handbook of Megachurches”, after founding Calvary Temple in India in 2005, he tried to build the largest church in the country. However, things did not materialise in his favour. Eventually, in 2015, he went to the US to raise funds but failed to secure any funding. Later, in his book 52 Day Miracle, author Peter Spencer claimed the church was built with the help of donations from its members. However, he failed to mention that when Kumar met him in the US, he had promised to financially support Kumar before the building project was completed. It is still unclear whether Spencer funded the project or the funding came from other sources.

Calvary Temple India’s funding details are not available on their website. However, our search revealed that they received substantial funding from the UK-based Christian Vision on two occasions. In 2020, they received £74,467, and in 2021, they received a whopping £727,394 from Christian Vision. OpIndia could not confirm if Calvary Temple India has an FCRA license.

Growing concerns over forced conversions

As Calvary Temple continues its ambitious expansion across India, concerns grow over the potential impact on the nation’s religious harmony. There is an urgent need for an extensive government investigation to curb Calvary Church’s forced conversion programmes that exploit the disadvantaged and manipulate vulnerable populations.

Sharad Pawar created split in family, politics should not be brought to such a low level: Ajit Pawar’s emotional outburst in Baramati

ANI
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Sharad Pawar created split in family, politics should not be brought to such a low level: Ajit Pawar’s emotional outburst in Baramati

After filing the nomination on Monday from Baramati assembly, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar got emotional while addressing a rally. Pawar alleged that the NCP patron Sharad Pawar had created a split in the family and fielded a candidate against him.

“I previously admitted to making a mistake, but it seems like others are now making errors too. My family and I had agreed to file the form in Baramati first, but that didn’t happen. Despite the challenges, we managed to improve the situation. My mother has been very supportive, and she even advised that they should not nominate anyone against Ajit Pawar. However, I was told that Saheb (Sharad Pawar) instructed someone to file a nomination against me…. Saheb created the split within the family. … I just want to say that politics should not be brought to such a low level, because it took the generations to be united and it doesn’t take a single moment to break the family..,” he said.

He further said that Baramati had seen significant development yet people had the right to question him on the subject.

“Some people questions development work done in Baramati, this doesn’t mean development by making roads and even building schools does not mean development. I need to understand what is development what should be done so that we can say this development, … I understand you have a right to speak ……but, what you talk it is not understandable…” he said.

Ajit Pawar exuded confidence of winning the election and said that the no continuing scheme would be shut, as it is for the benefit of people.

“Mahayuti will come back in power. We all know that by November 23 afternoon. this government will come back in power … because we have to keep promises of farmers, ‘Ladli scheme’ would continue for next five years …if they (opposition)come in power they shut it…we are people of works but they are not like that …. I don’t want to say anything on democracy everyone has right to contest on election…After filling my nomination i am sure that people of Baramati will give me vote in huge number …today while holding road show, I saw lot of enthusiasm and excitement of the people to support me. I want to tell you all that please keep this enthusiasm till voting day …,” he said.

Ajit Pawar is fielded against his nephew and Sharad Pawar’s grandson Yugendra Pawar, having lost the lok Sabha seat to his sister Supriya Sule the Maharashtra Deputy CM will be keen to prove his might in Baramati. 

(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

Access to Ram Gopal Mishra’s house restricted, Hindu victims pressurised to remain silent: A 7-day account of OpIndia’s experience in Bahraich

राहुल पाण्डेय
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Access to Ram Gopal Mishra’s house restricted, Hindu victims pressurised to remain silent: A 7-day account of OpIndia’s experience in Bahraich

After the violence that erupted during Maa Durga’s immersion procession in Bahraich on October 13th, situations in the impacted districts have come to normal. Police patrolling has significantly decreased, although officers are actively detaining suspects based on CCTV footage, witness accounts, and other evidence. The Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) has been critical in restoring order after the crisis grew beyond the authority of local police, avoiding the necessity for central forces.

A ground report by OpIndia highlighted that the police seemed primarily focused on restricting attention to the impact on Hindus who were affected by the violence. Roadblocks were reportedly set up near Hindu villages, and there were instances of harassment on social media against Hindu supporters, while members of the Muslim community were more freely able to give media interviews. The police also appeared more lenient towards Islamic-related activity on social media. Nevertheless, the Hindu community expressed fearlessness to pledge to organize an even larger procession in the future.

Restricted access to affected Hindu families

As per OpIndia reports, early police efforts concentrated on keeping the sufferings of the affected Hindu community under wraps. For instance, repeated attempts to reach Ram Gopal’s residence were unsuccessful, as a heavy police presence nearby blocked access on several occasions. Barricades were placed three kilometres before Ram Gopal’s home location, and officers cited “orders from above” when asked about the restrictions.

Barricades placed 3 km away from Ram Gopal’s home

After Ram Gopal, our team attempted to reach Sipahiya Pauli village, home of Vinod and Satyavan Mishra who were also attacked by the Islamists but were stopped again by police officers who prevented us from proceeding further. Our next destination was Gauria Ghat, the site for the idol immersion, where we encountered more obstacles along the way. One Aditya Mishra, a resident of Mahasi Bazar, managed to give a discreet interview to OpIndia, but the following day police arrived at his house, arrested him, issued a challan, and sent him to jail. Vinod Mishra, who was injured and spoke on camera, also shared that he faces pressure to stay silent.

Several Hindus meanwhile provided their contact numbers, identifying themselves as victims of the violence and agreeing to meet later. However, repeated calls went unanswered. While interviewing Satyavan Mishra, a family member of his, Vinod Mishra, received a call warning him to avoid media interactions. Aditya Mishra also reported facing pressure to keep his distance from the media.

In contrast, members of the Muslim community freely gave interviews, portraying themselves as victims. Their actions, from retrieving items from shops to partial demolitions of their homes, were broadcast live on various channels without restrictions. In the approximately 8-kilometer stretch between Nathuapur and Mahsi, we encountered many Muslim families who spoke openly to the media, unpressured and unaffected by fear. This disparity in media access initially framed the Muslim community as the sole victims of the violence and Hindus as the attackers.

Further, the Bahraich administration’s two-sided approach was evident not only on the ground but also across social media. Bahraich Police warned accounts that either highlighted the suffering of Hindus or attempted to expose the actions of the Muslim side. This warning was directed at multiple organizations, including OpIndia and Panchjanya. Despite consistent eyewitness accounts, the police denied that any attack announcements were made from the mosque and even issued an order for a notice to Dainik Jagran. Hindutva supporters and organizations were also asked to provide evidence for every tweet and statement they shared.

Meanwhile, outlets like The Wire continued to report selectively, with no intervention or requests for verification from the Bahraich police regarding interviews with Muslims who blatantly placed complete blame on Hindus. The police assured that no innocent would be punished after Muslim women were arrested. At one point, Bahraich Police even regarded Jamiat, an organization known for providing legal aid to terror suspects, as a peaceful hub, officially sharing their Urdu-language statements.

A similar scenario unfolded when rumours spread on social media that Ram Gopal Mishra’s body had been severely mutilated, with claims circulating about uprooted nails and other injuries. Bahraich Police swiftly labelled these claims as misleading and issued a denial—yet the post-mortem report followed soon after showcased injuries on toes. Conversely, no official denial was made when Muslim individuals alleged brutal house burnings and mistreatment of women without evidence at the hands of non-Muslims.

The Hindu community, despite facing religious violence and significant pressures, has made it clear they will not let these events stifle their religious practices.

The affected Hindus have unitedly declared that their Sanatani traditions are a cherished heritage passed down by their ancestors, and any attack on these traditions will not be tolerated, regardless of efforts to suppress them. Many expressed a willingness to make sacrifices, much like Ram Gopal. Ram Gopal Mishra’s wife has also vowed to fight relentlessly for a death sentence for her husband’s killers.

PAC’s significant role in curbing violence, preventing the need for central forces

At the onset of the Bahraich violence, the local police were criticized for their alleged negligence and failure to maintain order. Following a meeting with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the family of the late Ram Gopal raised direct allegations against the police. In response, the authorities swiftly suspended the outpost in-charge, station in-charge, and Deputy SP, with the Additional SP later reassigned to headquarters. When the situation intensified, PAC, a specialized unit of the UP Police, took control to restore order.

The PAC brought the situation under control within hours. Senior IPS officer Ajay Kumar was seen frequently patrolling not only Maharajganj, the site of the incident but also nearby villages. With the arrival of STF in-charge IPS Amitabh Yash, the government machinery has become highly active. Due to the collective efforts of the authorities, the violence that erupted on October 13th was contained by the end of the day, eliminating the need for central forces. Several new officers have since been assigned to local police stations and districts, working to identify suspects and pursue further legal action.

‘Fishes in Sarayu River traumatised’, ‘Infringement of the rights of darkness lovers’, and ‘Muslims marginalised’: Leftwing reportage on Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya

Jinit Jain
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‘Fishes in Sarayu River traumatised’, ‘Infringement of the rights of darkness lovers’, and ‘Muslims marginalised’: Leftwing reportage on Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is beautifully adorned in preparation for Diwali, one of the most significant festivals celebrated by millions of Hindus around the world. This festival commemorates Lord Ram’s return home after 14 years of exile. This year is particularly special for Ayodhya, as it marks the first Diwali celebrations held in the temple town with the newly consecrated Ram Mandir.

Into its eighth year, the UP government plans to deck up Ayodhya with diyas to celebrate ‘Deepotsav’, decorating the city with 25-28 lakh lamps and setting a world record. The Yogi Adityanath government said Diwali celebrations would be undertaken with environmental concerns in mind and eco-friendly lamps would be used to light up the grand Ram Temple.

However, even as the country is drowned in the festive mood and preparations are underway to celebrate Diwali in Ayodhya’s Ram Temple, the festivities face threats not from Ravana but a section of ‘conscientious environmentalists’ and ‘secular critics’, armed with their keyboards and tweets, rearing to wage war on the Hindu festival.

In the past week, the WhatsApp group of these ‘activists’ saw heightened activity, with its members routinely throwing lavish parties in their respective ‘2BHKs’ and discussing issues such as ‘growing polarisation’ in society hours after routinely spreading fake news demonising Hindus. They apparently decided to meet in person in an upscale seafood restaurant in Khan Market to discuss how they could attack Diwali celebrations by raising concerns about pollution and the safety of animals among other reasons to target the Yogi Adityanath government in UP and Modi government at the Centre.

“Modi’s new India splurges on Diwali celebrations while it struggles to feed its population,” tweeted a ‘journalist’ popularly known as ‘parking lot’ on X, a day after Diwali, highlighting the recently released Global Hunger Index that ranked India at 105 out of 127 nations, even though it placed India lower than several nations to which it had gifted free ration as a goodwill gesture.

His wife, a YouTuber these days too, partook in the collective propaganda effort, suggesting Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya this year reflect badly on a nation where poor children ferret out oil from earthen lamps and pour it in utensils for their family’s use.

Another member of this esteemed group, who was recently in the United States for a ‘scholarship’ programme, decided to include a Muslim angle to report on Ayodhya celebrations. “The ostentatious Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya is a jarring reminder of how Muslims in India continue to be sidelined and marginalised,” said the ‘scribe’ working for a left-leaning propaganda portal and who recently expressed the desire for the return of a man who coined ‘Two Nation Theory’ to direct Indian Muslims in the ‘right’ direction. The premise of her argument was a juxtaposed picture of a Muslim family of a husband, 4 wives, and 8 children living in darkness because of their inability to pay electricity bills with a brightly lit-up Ram Temple in Ayodhya. 

Yet another leftist, a psephologist by profession but who claims to have expertise in every field under the sun, tweeted, “Imagine the audacity, celebrating Diwali with actual lamps! Do they not know the carbon footprint of all those diyas?” The tweet, naturally, featured an image of Ayodhya—not radiating with traditional warmth, but rather portrayed as a smog-filled dystopia. A witty X user promptly responded underneath his tweet, “Aaj Duggal Saab environmentalist hai.”

Articles trashing the Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya began to emerge in publications, such as mushrooms sprouting after rains. ‘Yogi Adityanath govt plunges Ayodhya in environmental catastrophe’ was the title of an article that argued about the violation of animal rights. “Doesn’t lighting so many lamps infringe on the rights of nocturnal animals? Think of the owls, they must be so triggered by all this light!” it contended.

Meanwhile, a video by a popular YouTuber based out of Germany, discussed how the Diwali celebration was a clear sign of cultural appropriation. “I mean, Diwali isn’t just about lights, it’s about inclusivity. Where’s the inclusivity for the light-sensitive community? Was there a sincere attempt undertaken to seek permission from the environment before lighting up those diyas? And don’t even get me started on the trauma felt by fishes and crocodiles living in the Saryu River,” the YouTuber pondered, subtly hinting at his followers to file a petition against this gross misconduct.

“What? We are lighting up Ayodhya with diyas, but what about those who love darkness? Don’t they have the right to enjoy darkness? Isn’t this a gross undermining of the Indian constitution?” lamented a Radio Jockey claiming to voice concerns for the darkness lovers.  

On the Yogi Adityanath administration’s use of eco-friendly lamps instead of traditional diyas, an ‘environmental activist’ tweeted, “But what about the cultural authenticity?”, arguing that the government has failed everyone, Hindus, environmentalists, minorities, animals, and others, without offering any explanation regarding it.

A self-described ‘journalist’ accused of plagiarism for her columns in an American daily and who faces enquiry for committing fraud in the name of donations in India shared a news report of a thief caught red-handed for stealing valuables from a house in Ayodhya. The ‘journalist’ claimed the arrest of the thief, identified as Abdul, on the day of Diwali was yet another blow to the secular credentials of the nation under the Modi government. “Now needy Muslims in India can not even steal from the privileged ones. This is what India has been turned into in the last 10 years of rule. This is the fascism we are living under,” she tweeted.

PM Modi and Spain’s Prime Minister launch Airbus-Tata C-295 aircraft facility in Vadodara: Everything to know about India’s first privately built military aircraft

OpIndia Staff
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PM Modi and Spain’s Prime Minister launch Airbus-Tata C-295 aircraft facility in Vadodara: Everything to know about India’s first privately built military aircraft

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated the C-295 aircraft factory in Vadodara, Gujarat on 28th October.

These aircraft will be jointly manufactured by Airbus and Tata under the ‘Make in India’ campaign for the Indian Air Force. During this time, PM Modi also talked about the steps taken to expand the defence sector.

“Today the defence manufacturing ecosystem in India is touching new heights. If we had not taken concrete steps 10 years ago, it would have been impossible to reach this level today. We expanded private sector participation in defence manufacturing and made the public sector efficient,” PM Modi expressed during the event.

PM Modi also remembered former Tata Sons chairman late Ratan Tata and stated that he would have been delighted to have been present on the occasion. The latter had recently passed away at the age of 86 due to age-related issues.

“But, wherever his soul is, he would be happy,” he added. The factory is India’s first private-sector aircraft manufacturing facility. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was the only company in the nation producing aircraft prior to this.

The joint Airbus and Tata facility in Vadodara will produce Airbus C-295 aircraft on the order of the Air Force. The Indian Air Force had ordered 56 C-295 aircraft in 2021. Of these 16 will arrive from Spain while 40 aircraft will be developed in India in 2026.

All the systems and other parts including the engine are set to be installed in the Vadodara factory while their bodies will be manufactured in Tata’s factory located in Hyderabad which also develops bodies of other aircraft.

This is the first chance for India’s private sector to produce aircraft due to which the suppliers of aircraft parts in the country will be able to expand, and eventually, it will be feasible to export aircraft from India.

Furthermore, if the Air Force or Navy makes such orders in the future, they will be completed swiftly. This plant will also produce a huge number of jobs and an ecosystem for the manufacture of aeroplanes in India.

Pilots and other Air Force personnel won’t need to travel to Spain as they would be able to train here. These Airbus aircraft have been ordered by the Air Force to replace its outdated HS-748 aircraft. The nearly 60-year-old HS-748 is no longer functional in the present day.

On the other hand, the C-295 has contemporary technology and can transport military gear with relative ease. In addition, they require minimal maintenance and have a large capacity.

According to military analysts, Airbus and Tata may receive additional orders if the Air Force first approves this aircraft. The Air Force must also replace its old AN-32 aircraft in addition to HS-748.

The Air Force will be placing a very large order if they decide to replace them with C-295. This aeroplane, which Tata and Airbus are jointly developing, is unique in a lot of ways. It is essentially a plane for transporting freight.

Its primary function is to move troops or military hardware from one location to another. 73 soldiers can be transported at once by this two-pilot aircraft.

Approximately nine tons of cargo can be transported in one flight by this aircraft. It can also work as an air ambulance and does not require any special runway to land. In such a situation, it will be useful to help the Indian Army deployed in inaccessible or remote areas.

Why are Hindu organisations demanding demolition of the disputed mosque in Uttarkashi: Here’s all you need to know

OpIndia Staff
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Why are Hindu organisations demanding demolition of the disputed mosque in Uttarkashi: Here’s all you need to know

After Sanjauli Mosque in Himachal Pradesh, Hindu organisations are calling for the removal of an alleged illegal mosque in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. On the 24th of October 2024, members of local Hindu rights organisations like the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharma Rakshak Sangh staged a protest rally against the illegal structure.

Following stone pelting, tensions rose and the police lathi-charged the protesters leaving several injured. Hindu organisations have alleged that a mosque has been built illegally on government land in the Barahat area of ​​Uttarkashi.

A rally was held by the protesters starting from Hanuman Chowk against this. Swami Darshan Bharti, leader of the Devbhoomi Raksha Abhiyan, was also present in the rally. During this time, the protesters also raised slogans of ‘Jai Shri Ram’. Markets remained completely closed in Uttarkashi, Dunda, Bhatwadi and Joshiyada during the protest.

When the protesters tried to remove the barricades, they clashed with the police and the police lathi-charged the protesters. During this, tear gas shells were also fired. 27 people, including 2 female protesters and 8 police officers, were injured in the clash. The injured have been admitted to the district hospital for treatment.

The police crackdown on Hindu activists was met with outrage, and on Friday, the local traders and Hindu activists observed a “Bandh” in the Yamunaghati area to register their protest against the police. It has been reportedly decided that a Hindu Mahapanchayat will be held on the 4th of November to address this matter.

On Thursday night (23rd October), Swami Darshan Bharti issued a warning that if namaz were offered at the illegal Uttarkashi mosque on Friday, markets will remain shut and there would be widespread protests.  In reaction to the rising tensions, District Magistrate Dr. Meharban Singh Bisht enforced Section 144 in Uttarkashi District.

Extending solidarity to the Vyapar Mandal, Uttarkashi’s vegetable market stayed shut. To successfully manage the situation, police from Tehri Garhwal, Haridwar, and Dehradun were dispatched to the region. Members of various Hindu organisations met at the Vishwanath Temple compound in the afternoon to raise their demands regarding the said illegal mosque.

What is the protest against the mosque about

Hindus say that the mosque in Uttarkashi has been built illegally on government land. However, the district administration says that the mosque is old and is built on the land of the people of the Muslim community. Regarding this, the District Magistrate Office of Uttarkashi also issued a notice on the 21st of October. In this, the report of Bhatwadi’s Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mukesh Chand Ramola has been cited, in which he said that the land on which the mosque is built is registered in the name of the land account holders.

This mosque is also reported to be mentioned in the government gazette published by the Muslim Waqf Department of the Uttar Pradesh government on 20th  May 1987. In this, the khasra, raqwa, Nali and religious purpose of the mosque are mentioned on behalf of the Sunni Waqf. This land was reportedly bought by Ramzan Ali, Abdul Hameed Beg, Ali Ahmed, Yasin Beg, Ilahivaksh, and Mohammad Rafiq, residents of Sakinan Uttarkashi, Patti Barahat, Tehsil Bhatwadi. They apparently purchased a total of four Nali and 15 Mutthi land [Mutthi and Nali are traditional units of land measurement in Uttarakhand].

The mutation of the land took place in 2004, and an order passed by the Tehsildar in 2005 states that the mosque is built on the land in question. This dispute began when the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharma Rakshak Sangh sought information about the mosque under RTI. In this, the district administration gave vague information and said that it did not have the necessary documents.

Devbhoomi Raksha Abhiyan founder Swami Darshan Bharti says that the administration provided incorrect information in the RTI. Following this, on the 6th of September, 2024, Hindu organisations protested outside the DM office, demanding the mosque’s demolition. They issued a three-day ultimatum to the administration. They stated that if their demand was not met, they would demolish the mosque themselves. Following this, the District Magistrate of Uttarkashi appointed a committee to investigate the matter. This committee stated that the mosque is legal and does not sit on government land.

Reports say that the local Muslim community claimed that the Uttarkashi mosque was constructed in the pre-independence period, however, at that time it had only two floors and three others were illegally constructed later on.

Local Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gaurav Pandey has said that several “outsiders” have entered the Devbhoomi and are involved in illegal activities. Pandey stated that in recent years, cases of molestation and enticing of women have increased in hilly areas, resulting in anger among locals, which can be seen on the streets. The BJP leader said that there have been illegal encroachments and buildings on government land in several parts of the state, which have been reported by locals; the government has taken note of this and freed many hectares of land from encroachment. He further stated, “In the Pushkar Singh Dhami government, no one will be allowed to take the law into their hands and strict action will be taken against the culprits.”

On 28th October, the police conducted a routine inspection in the unrest-hit area. The Investigating Officer Manoj Aswal said that as part of the investigation, a routine inspection of the spot has been done. Also, a map has been prepared of where the protesters were coming from and where the policemen were standing. He said that efforts have been made to collect evidence from the spot and based on the evidence found, the stone pelters will be identified and arrested.

DMK minister targets actor Vijay’s Tamilga Vatri Kajhagam, says they are ‘C team of BJP’

ANI
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DMK minister targets actor Vijay’s Tamilga Vatri Kajhagam, says they are ‘C team of BJP’

Tamil Nadu law minister S Regupathy on Monday targeted Actor Vijay’s Tamilga Vatri Kajhgam (TVK) party, saying that the party is not an A team or B team, but the BJP’s C team.

He further added that Sunday’s TVK public meeting was more like a grand film than a real meeting.

Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu law minister S Regupathy said, “Actor Vijay’s TVK (Tamilga Vatri Kajhgam) party is not an A team or B team, but it is BJP’s C team. It is clear that the Dravidian model of governance cannot be removed from the minds of the people. Yesterday’s TVK public meeting was more like a grand film than a real meeting.”

On Sunday, Actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam state conference was held in V Salai, Vikravandi, where lakhs of Vijay supporters thronged and participated in the party’s first-ever state conference.

Vijay accused the DMK of deceiving the public under the guise of the Dravidian model and called the DMK government anti-people.

Addressing the people, Vijay said, “Here one group singing the same song. Applying specific colour to whoever comes for politics. They are cheating people and they are doing underground dealing. In the name of the Dravidian Model running anti people’s government cheating the people. TVK’s first ideological enemy is who troubles this country with divisive politics. The second is in the name of the Dravidian model and using the names of Thanthai Periyar and Peraringanar Anna cheat Tamil Nadu people which is one selfish family group (Dynasty).”

He further remarked that politics is “not a cine field but a battlefield,” adding that his party members must be vigilant on the ground.

“Politics is not a cine field; it is a battlefield. It’s serious. Whether it’s dealing with a snake or politics, if we decide to take it up with seriousness and a touch of humour, only then can we endure in this field and handle opponents. We need to stay cautious on the ground,” Vijay said.

Vijay entered politics and launched his party, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam, in February this year.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are anticipated to take place in 2026. 


(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

Delhi: Asif and his father Riyazuddin attack police officers, punch SHO in the face

OpIndia Staff
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Delhi: Asif and his father Riyazuddin attack police officers, punch SHO in the face

On Saturday (26th October), a youth named Asif assaulted multiple on-duty police officers for stopping the former from riding a bike with a modified silencer. He was accompanied by his father Riyazuddin.

According to reports, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Jamia Nagar police station, Narpal Singh, was on patrol duty in Batla House at about 8:45 pm. He saw Asif driving towards Zakir Nagar market on his motorcycle while creating a loud noise.

Singh stopped the accused for inspection and found that his bike was equipped with a modified silencer, which emitted sound beyond permissible limits as mandated by the Motor Vehicles Act.

The SHO directed the cops to take legal action against the 24-year-old Asif. The accused called his father Riyazuddin to the scene. He attempted to take away the bike and threatened the police officers with drastic consequences.

“Just settle it here and let him go, or else things won’t go well,” Riyazuddin threatened. He then held onto SHO Narpal Singh while Asif threw punches at his face. The officer sustained injuries to his eye. Constable Ramkesh was also injured.

SHO Singh and constable Ramkesh were rushed to the Holi Family Hospital for treatment. Their condition is now said to be stable. Other police officers on patrol duty overpowered the duo and arrested them.

A case was thereafter registered against Asif and Riyazuddin for assaulting on-duty police officers and obstructing public servants from performing their duties.

AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid instigates Muslims to create unrest over Waqf Amendment bill, says it is ‘matter of life and death’

OpIndia Staff
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AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid instigates Muslims to create unrest over Waqf Amendment bill, says it is ‘matter of life and death’

Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rehmani, the president of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) stepped up his opposition to the proposed Waqf (Amendment) bill. In an effort to provoke Muslims, he vowed to fight its implementation “at any cost” and declared that members of the organisation are willing to give their lives for the cause. He further alleged that the government wanted to limit the board’s rights and added that it had unlawfully occupied the highest number of Waqf properties.

“It is a matter of life and death for us, and we should stop it (Waqf bill) at all costs. If needed, the Muslims of the country will fill the jails in such a way that the government will not have any place to house criminals,” he threatened while speaking at an event in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. “If needed, we will not hesitate to give our own lives,” he claimed in front of his audience.

“If its (waqf boards) management is done by non-Muslims, will they sympathise with your mosques and graveyards? The result will be your land will be taken away from you. This is a very dangerous law. In Tamil Nadu itself there are 4,78,000 acres of temple land. In Andhra Pradesh, there are 4,68,000 acres of temple land. Both these states have 10 lakh acres of temple land. If Muslims have six lakh acres of Waqf land in the whole country, then what is the problem,” he asked.

Additionally, the AIMPLB chief accused that the center governemnt was “pressurising” certain Waqf Board members to drop the legal battle and refrain from submitting any paperwork. “Think about it. If there is a dispute between the Waqf board and the government, will the collector give a decision against the government? The collector is from the government itself,” he claime dinf ront of the gathering.

Notably, a group headed by the AIMPLB supremo met with Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on 9th October to allegedly discuss their objections to the bill. They claimed that the Waqf Act would permit the seizure of Waqf holding and charged that the move is in violation of the Constitution, federalism, democratic values and the pluralistic structure of the nation. According to a statement issued by the AIMPLB following the meeting, Soren would “never support the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 if it is presented in Parliament.”

On 28th July, the central government proposed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament. However, it was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) due to the objection from the opposition parties. Waqf boards now have the jurisdiction to declare any property “waqf property.” The law seeks to limit their authority. It also recommends including Muslim women and non-Muslims to state Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council.

On 22nd October, Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MP Kalyan Banerjee reportedly attacked JPC chairman Jagdambika Pal with a glass bottle during the Joint Parliamentary Committee meeting on the Waqf (Amendment) bill. He had a heated dispute with Bharatiya Janata Party member and former Calcutta High Court Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay and injured his thumb as well as index finger when he shattered a glass water bottle on the table out of rage. Meanwhile, Jagdambika Pal expressed, “Yesterday during the Joint Parliamentary Committee meeting, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee broke a glass bottle and threw it with such anger and fury and the way he threw it at me, it is God’s grace that I narrowly escaped.”

“The government is having discussions on the bill so that it can benefit the Muslim community. The objective of the bill is to benefit the poor Muslims. The state wants such land to be used for the education and development of poor Muslims. We have to come to a consensus. If anybody disagrees, they must make their point. But showing such anger is not valid,” Jagdambika Pal noted.

Kerala govt refuses to prosecute Kalamassery blast accused Dominic Martin under UAPA, will be charged under IPC and Explosives Act

OpIndia Staff
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Kerala govt refuses to prosecute Kalamassery blast accused Dominic Martin under UAPA, will be charged under IPC and Explosives Act

In an update to the blast that was reported in Kerala’s Kochi last year, the police have withdrawn terrorism charges against Dominic Martin, the only person accused in the case. The blasts took place last year at a Jehovah’s Witness convention in Kalamassery, which killed eight people and injured 45 others severely. 

The UAPA charges filed against Martin were reportedly dropped after the state refused to prosecute him under the said act. According to the New Indian Express, the police stated that despite the fact the investigation team had finished every procedure for prosecuting Martin under UAPA, the state administration declined to pursue UAPA charges.

“The paperwork was completed, and the police had submitted the documents to the UAPA committee. After the committee reviewed it, the government decided not to grant prosecution sanction under UAPA in the case. The sanction was denied due to the stand of Left parties against UAPA,” a police source was quoted as saying by the New Indian Express. 

After the police submitted the chargesheet at the Ernakulam District Principal Sessions Court in April of this year, the matter was sent to the Kalamassery magistrate court for committal hearings. Martin will now stand trial for offenses only under several sections of the IPC and the Explosives Act.

Kochi City Police Deputy Commissioner K S Sudarshan, who examined the issue, confirmed that Martin’s UAPA charges were withdrawn because they did not get the sanction from the government. “However, we don’t know the reason behind the denial,” he said. 

Officers on the investigation team assert that, while UAPA charge has been dismissed, Martin still faces additional serious allegations that might result in a capital punishment. There are 284 witnesses in this case. Over 150 material objects and documents were submitted before the court, along with a chargesheet spanning over 3,500 pages.

Last year, multiple blasts were executed at a Jehovah’s Witnesses prayer meeting at a convention center at Kalamassery, Ernakulam in Kochi district, killing eight and injuring over more than 50 persons.

Hours after the blasts, a man named Dominic Martin surrendered to the police claiming responsibility for the explosions. Before his arrest, Martin, a former member of Jehova’s Witness, appeared live on a social media platform and said that he believed that its teachings were “anti-national and seditious”.

“Their teaching is not right. They are teaching anti-national things. I told them that they should change their ways. Staying in a…but cursing and addressing people in that country in the worst…derogatory form is they do. They are telling a 4-year-old child that if somebody from another community gives you candy, you shouldn’t have it. From an early age, they are feeding such poison into the child,” the accused reportedly alleged.

He further said, “I took this decision because I understood that this organization is bad for the country. Political parties won’t take action because everyone is scared of religion. You should open your eyes.”

The Indian Express quoted Martin saying that Jehova’s Witnesses ask the children not to sing the national anthem or join the defense services. “They teach that all people of the world will perish and only they will live. What should we do with the people who long for the ruin of the entire people in the world? I could not find a solution,” Martin said.

Jehova’s Witnesses, according to information available on their website jw.org, “strive to adhere to the form of Christianity that Jesus taught and that is apostles practiced”. They consider Jehova as the one true and Almighty God, the Creator, who is the God of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.

According to information on jw.org, Jehova’s Witnesses do not participate in nationalistic ceremonies. “Jehova’s Witnesses choose not to participate in such ceremonies because we believe that these conflict with Bible teachings. We appreciate receiving the same respect for our beliefs as we show to others who make a different choice,” the official website of Jehova’s Witnesses reads. The group claims to remain “strictly neutral” in political affairs and “avoid affiliation with other religions”. Interestingly, a lot of these beliefs bear a resemblance to Islam in more than one way primarily owing to their Abrahamic origins. They believe religion to be above nationalism, propagate and practice conversion, and provoke people to commit anti-national acts.

In the given case, the Kerala government and the UAPA committee have now withdrawn the UAPA charge against Dominic. It is believed that the government has taken this decision owing to politics.

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