Author: Soham Kachdiya

Imphal, Manipur, September 26, 2023 – Mobile internet services have been suspended in the northeastern state of Manipur for a period of five days, according to an official statement released by the Home Department of the Manipur government. The decision comes in response to the growing law and order concerns stemming from the spread of disinformation, false rumors, and the incitement of violent activities on various social media platforms.

Government Takes Serious Note of the Situation

In an official statement, the Home Department expressed its grave concern over the prevailing law and order situation in Manipur, particularly the widespread dissemination of unverified information through platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The government cited the potential for these messages to facilitate and mobilize agitators and demonstrators, potentially leading to loss of life or damage to public and private property.

Internet Restrictions to Last Until October 1, 2023

As a result of these concerns, the Manipur government has decided to suspend mobile internet data services and internet/data services through VPN in the state’s territorial jurisdiction for a period of five days, with the restrictions set to be in place until 7:45 pm on October 1, 2023.

Protests Erupt Over Deaths of Two Missing Meitei Students

Earlier in the day, Imphal, the capital of Manipur, witnessed large-scale protests as hundreds of students took to the streets demanding justice for two missing Meitei teenagers who were allegedly killed by suspected Kuki militants. The two students, Hijam Linthoingambi (17) and Phijam Hemjit (20), had gone missing on July 6, during a period of heightened ethnic violence in the state.

Graphic Images Circulate on Social Media

The situation escalated further after graphic images of the deceased bodies of the two students surfaced on social media platforms. One image depicted the lifeless bodies of the students, while another showed them sitting in fear alongside two armed men.

Government Confirms Identities of Deceased Students

The Manipur government has since confirmed the identities of the deceased students, stating that they are indeed Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemjit. According to available information, the two students had gone for a ride on July 6 on a KTM bike and had not been seen since.

Summary:

• Mobile internet services have been suspended in Manipur for five days, lasting until October 1, 2023, due to concerns over the spread of disinformation and potential violence incitement on social media platforms.
• Protests erupted in Imphal, Manipur, following the circulation of graphic images of two missing Meitei students who were allegedly killed by suspected Kuki militants.
• The Manipur government has confirmed the identities of the deceased students as Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemjit, who went missing on July 6, 2023, during ethnic violence in the state.

After four consecutive sessions of weakness, the Indian stock market exhibited a flat closing on Monday, leaving investors eager for signs of a potential rebound. The Nifty 50 index managed a marginal gain, closing at 19,674 levels, while the BSE Sensex edged up by a mere 14 points, settling at 66,023. On the brighter side, the Bank Nifty index recorded a gain of 154 points, concluding at 44,766 levels. In the broader market, small-cap stocks inched up by 0.12%, while mid-cap stocks surged by 0.46% during Monday’s trading.

Analysts are closely monitoring the market’s near-term support levels, with Vaishali Parekh, Vice President of Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher, offering insights into the outlook for Tuesday’s trading. Parekh emphasized that Nifty’s critical support is situated within the range of 19,600 to 19,550 levels. According to her, a potential bounce-back in the market can be anticipated as long as Nifty remains above this crucial support zone.

For those seeking trading opportunities, Parekh recommended three intraday stocks for Tuesday: Shriram Finance, TVS Motor, and RailTel.

Vaishali Parekh’s Stock Recommendations:

1. Shriram Finance: Buy at ₹1945, target ₹2020, stop loss ₹1915.
2. TVS Motor: Buy at ₹1515, target ₹1580, stop loss ₹1490.
3. RailTel: Buy at ₹228, target ₹244, stop loss ₹224.

Parekh’s insights also extend to the Nifty 50 index and Bank Nifty index. She highlighted that Nifty managed to maintain support near the 19,600 zone amid intraday volatility, with a recovery to 19,730 levels by the end of the day. The index’s crucial near-term support lies around 19,550 levels, coinciding with the significant 50EMA.

On the other hand, Bank Nifty maintained support near 44,400 levels and experienced a respectable pullback towards the 44,930 zone, encountering resistance before closing at approximately 44,750 levels. Parekh stressed that the Bank Nifty index has a crucial support zone at 43,600 levels and could potentially witness further gains if it decisively breaches the 45,000 level.

In summary, the support and resistance levels for the day are as follows: Nifty 50 – Support at 19,550 levels, Resistance at 19,800 levels; Bank Nifty – Daily range of 44,400 to 45,000 levels.

Investors are advised to exercise caution and consult certified experts before making any investment decisions.

News Summary:

• Indian stock market closes flat after four days of weakness.
• Nifty 50 index maintains support near 19,600, with a crucial support zone at 19,550.
• Bank Nifty index shows signs of improvement, holding support near 44,400 levels.
• Analyst Vaishali Parekh recommends intraday stocks: Shriram Finance, TVS Motor, and RailTel.
• Investors cautioned to verify investment decisions with certified experts.

Pro-Kannada activists in Karnataka’s Ramanagara district staged a symbolic funeral for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday morning, intensifying protests against the release of Cauvery river water to the neighboring state. These protests have triggered a call for a statewide bandh on September 29, with Bengaluru already experiencing a strike today.

Members of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organization, orchestrated a funeral scene with a portrait of MK Stalin and conducted rituals typically performed during a person’s demise. A floral wreath was placed on the picture of Stalin, and a group of protesters chanted slogans against the DMK chief. Concurrently, a group of Tamil Nadu farmers expressed their discontent with Karnataka’s stance on Cauvery water and demanded its release. In a unique display of protest, some Tamil Nadu farmers held deceased rats in their mouths in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.

As the strike unfolded in Bengaluru today, schools and colleges were already closed, and several IT offices allowed their employees to work from home. Meanwhile, the pro-Kannada group “Kannada Chaluvali,” led by Vatal Nagaraj, affirmed their commitment to the statewide bandh scheduled for Friday. Nagaraj stated during a press conference on Monday, “Everyone will support the bandh. We will protest in front of the Raj Bhavan. We will block national highways and airports. Buses, taxis, and autos will support the bandh.”

Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda, however, made it clear that permission had not been granted for the bandh on Tuesday, explicitly prohibiting processions and rallies. He issued a stern warning of strict action against any individuals involved in untoward incidents. Prohibitory orders under CrPC Section 144 were enforced from Monday midnight to Tuesday midnight, limiting public gatherings to no more than five people.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that the government would not curtail the protests but insisted that they must be conducted in adherence to the law and order of the city.

Summary:

• Pro-Kannada activists hold mock funeral for Tamil Nadu CM amidst Cauvery water dispute.
• Karnataka witnesses a strike; schools, colleges closed; IT offices allow work from home.
• Kannada Chaluvali group calls for a statewide bandh on September 29.
• Bengaluru Police Commissioner prohibits Tuesday’s bandh; issues strict warnings.
• CM Siddaramaiah assures protests will not be curtailed, emphasizes adherence to law.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has responded promptly to a video depicting an elderly man smoking a beedi inside one of its coaches, urging commuters to report such incidents for immediate action. This move comes as part of DMRC’s commitment to maintaining a safe and comfortable travel environment for passengers.

The video, shared on social media platform X by user Manish Pandey, shows an elderly man lighting a beedi with a matchstick and subsequently throwing away the lit match. Despite the blatant violation of no-smoking rules within the Delhi Metro, initially, no one intervened. However, towards the end of the video, a fellow passenger gently tapped the man’s leg, presumably indicating that smoking was prohibited inside the metro.

DMRC, through its official statement, assured commuters that it actively monitors and takes action against such objectionable behavior through its “flying squads.” These squads conduct random checks to identify and address violations of metro rules.

“We conduct random checking through flying squads to detect any such objectionable behavior. We appeal to the public to instantly bring up such instances to our notice so that immediate action can be taken,” DMRC stated.

The video, shared just a day ago, has garnered over 3,000 views and prompted discussions among viewers. Many expressed concern over the lack of intervention by fellow passengers during the incident. Some advocated for a more robust mechanism to identify and penalize violators promptly.

“Socially responsible people. Why no one could intervene and snatch the matchbox from the culprit. Anyone who made this clip or video is also equally responsible for such an incident,” commented one individual.

Another commenter said, “Horrible. The system should have an inbuilt mechanism of identification and termination of the journey at the next stop. Ordinary citizens don’t intervene due to being scared of violent reactions or follow up by such people.”

DMRC’s call for passenger involvement in reporting violations reflects its commitment to passenger safety and ensuring a pleasant commuting experience for all.

News Summary:

• DMRC swiftly responds to a video depicting a man smoking a beedi inside a Delhi Metro coach, urging passengers to report such violations for immediate action.
• The video, shared on social media, raised concerns about passengers’ reluctance to intervene in the incident.
• DMRC employs “flying squads” to conduct random checks and address objectionable behavior within the metro.
• Commuters and social media users call for a stronger mechanism to identify and penalize violators promptly.

The Supreme Court has granted permission to Ashish Mishra, the prime accused in the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case, to visit and stay in Delhi temporarily to attend to his ailing mother and daughter. This decision comes after Mishra’s earlier interim bail restricted him from entering the national capital or Uttar Pradesh.

In January, the apex court had granted Ashish Mishra, the son of Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ajay Mishra Teni, an eight-week interim bail, but with strict conditions. However, the recent ruling allows him to be with his family in New Delhi for compassionate reasons.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta, while hearing Mishra’s plea seeking a modification of the interim bail condition, directed that he should not participate in any public functions or address the media regarding the case.

Mishra’s mother is reportedly admitted to the RML Hospital in New Delhi, while his daughter requires treatment for leg deformities, making his presence with his family essential.

Background on Lakhimpur Kheri Violence Case:

On October 3, 2021, a tragic incident occurred in Lakhimpur Kheri’s district Tikunia during a farmers’ protest against the then Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Keshav Prasad Maurya’s visit to the area. Eight people lost their lives during the violence.

According to the UP Police FIR, an SUV, in which Ashish Mishra was seated, allegedly mowed down four farmers, leading to a violent clash where the driver of the SUV and two BJP workers were reportedly lynched by enraged farmers. The FIR also stated that a journalist lost their life during the violence.

Ashish Mishra was arrested on October 9, 2021, after a daylong interrogation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). On February 15, 2022, the high court granted him bail. However, he had to surrender on April 24, 2022, after his bail order was canceled by the Supreme Court.

In January of this year, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and JK Maheshwari granted Mishra an eight-week interim bail, emphasizing that the top court would closely monitor the trial in the case.

News Summary:

• The Supreme Court has allowed Ashish Mishra, the prime accused in the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case, to visit Delhi temporarily to care for his ailing mother and daughter.
• Earlier, Mishra was granted an eight-week interim bail with restrictions preventing him from entering Delhi or Uttar Pradesh.
• The court has directed Mishra not to participate in any public functions or address the media regarding the case.
• The Lakhimpur Kheri violence occurred during a farmers’ protest in October 2021, resulting in eight fatalities and several injuries.
• Mishra, son of a Union Minister, had previously been arrested and granted bail in this case, but had to surrender after the Supreme Court’s intervention.

In response to recent concerns raised by Moody’s Investors Service regarding the reliability of India’s Aadhaar system, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and the Ministry of Electronics & IT have strongly defended the country’s ambitious biometric identification program.

Moody’s had voiced doubts about Aadhaar’s effectiveness in India’s hot and humid climate and its impact on service denials, raising questions about security and privacy safeguards. Here’s how the Indian authorities have responded to these allegations:

UIDAI Refutes Allegations:
UIDAI emphatically refuted Moody’s assertions, highlighting the absence of concrete evidence to support the claims. The agency pointed out that over a billion Indians have successfully used Aadhaar for authentication over 100 billion times in the past decade.

“The investor service did not make any attempt to ascertain facts regarding the issues raised by it from the Authority,” the UIDAI stated.

Biometric Technology and Security:
Both UIDAI and the Narendra Modi government underscored that Aadhaar employs multiple authentication methods, including facial and iris recognition, in addition to fingerprinting. They also noted the availability of one-time passwords (OTP) via mobile phones, providing a fail-safe mechanism.

Ministry of Electronics & IT’s Response:
The Ministry of Electronics & IT expressed its dissatisfaction with Moody’s report, citing a lack of substantiated opinions with primary or secondary data. It pointed out that Aadhaar enjoys the trust of over a billion Indians and has received positive evaluations from international agencies like the IMF and World Bank.

Addressing Centralization Concerns:
Regarding concerns about centralization, UIDAI and the Ministry emphasized that there have been no reported breaches of the Aadhaar database to date. They stressed that Aadhaar’s architecture incorporates state-of-the-art security measures and complies with global security and privacy standards, including ISO 27001:2013 and ISO 27701:2019.

Aadhaar’s Role in Financial Inclusion:
The government also cited a recent G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) report, highlighting how Aadhaar, along with Jan Dhan bank accounts and mobile phones, has significantly increased the ownership of transaction accounts among Indian adults, expediting a process that could have otherwise taken nearly half a century.

In summary, both UIDAI and the Ministry of Electronics & IT consider the criticisms raised by Moody’s to be “baseless.” They maintain that Aadhaar is a highly secure and reliable system, a stance supported by a vast number of Indians and acknowledged by global institutions.

News Summary:

• Moody’s concerns about Aadhaar’s reliability in India’s climate and its impact on service denials have been refuted by UIDAI and the Ministry of Electronics & IT.
• UIDAI emphasized the lack of concrete evidence supporting Moody’s claims and highlighted the widespread use of Aadhaar for authentication.
• The Indian government stressed the multiple authentication methods and security measures in place within the Aadhaar system.
• The Ministry of Electronics & IT cited the trust of over a billion Indians and positive evaluations from international agencies like the IMF and World Bank.
• Concerns about centralization were addressed with the assurance of no reported breaches in the Aadhaar database.
• Aadhaar’s role in financial inclusion was highlighted, with reference to a G20 GPFI report.

The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance against the Uttar Pradesh government, reprimanding them for their handling of a case involving a woman teacher accused of encouraging her students to slap a Muslim classmate and making communal remarks at a private school in Muzaffarnagar. The apex court has not only directed the state to appoint a senior IPS officer to investigate the case but has also sought a comprehensive report on the implementation of the Right To Education (RTE) Act in the state.

A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Pankaj Mithal termed the incident as “serious” and insisted on proper counseling for the victim child and the students involved in the incident.

Key Details:

1. The accused teacher allegedly incited her students to slap a Muslim classmate and made communal remarks at a private school in Muzaffarnagar.
2. The Supreme Court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to assign a senior IPS officer to investigate the case and submit a report to the court.
3. The state government was also instructed to provide counseling to the victim child and the other students involved, with the assistance of professional counselors.
4. The court raised concerns about the state’s compliance with the RTE Act, which ensures quality, free, and compulsory education to children up to 14 years without discrimination based on caste, creed, or gender.
5. A status report on the implementation of the RTE Act in schools across Uttar Pradesh is expected to be submitted within four weeks.

Background:

This development came in response to a plea filed by Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, who sought a swift investigation into the case. Earlier, on September 6, the Supreme Court had directed the Muzaffarnagar superintendent of police to provide a status report on the case and measures taken to protect the student and his parents. The court had also issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government, requiring a response by September 25.

The Muzaffarnagar Police had registered a case against the teacher for allegedly making communal comments and instructing her students to slap a Muslim classmate over incomplete homework. The state education department also served a notice to the school in connection with the matter.

Summary:

• The Supreme Court has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government for their handling of a case involving a teacher’s alleged encouragement of students to slap a Muslim classmate and make communal remarks.
• The court ordered the appointment of a senior IPS officer to investigate the case and demanded counseling for the victim child and other students involved.
• Concerns were raised about the state’s compliance with the Right To Education Act, prompting a request for a status report on its implementation within four weeks.

In a flurry of political exchanges, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have launched verbal salvos, characterizing each other’s parties and governance styles. The heated rhetoric comes as both Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh prepare for upcoming state elections.

Rahul Gandhi Accuses BJP of Operating ‘Secret Remote Controls’

Rahul Gandhi, while launching the Mukhyamantri Gramin Awas Nyay Yojana in Chhattisgarh, waved a remote control and claimed that the BJP operates hidden “remote controls” to manipulate the government. He asserted that PM Modi “presses it secretly,” alluding to alleged crony capitalism and privatization. Rahul Gandhi cited the example of Adani Group’s involvement in Mumbai airport and claimed that questioning such actions led to the cancellation of his Lok Sabha membership.

“In all Congress-ruled states, the public is at the helm. Our governments are not run by Adaniji. And all our remote controls are for the public to see,” Rahul Gandhi countered.

Prime Minister Modi Labels Congress as ‘Rusted Iron’

Meanwhile, PM Modi addressed a rally in Madhya Pradesh and likened the Congress party to “rusted iron,” warning that a Congress-led government would push the state back into the BIMARU category, signifying economic underdevelopment. He touted the BJP’s achievements in lifting over 13.5 crore people out of poverty during their rule.

“The Congress and its allies in the Ghamandia bloc supported the Women’s Reservation Bill out of compulsion and hesitation as they understood the power of nari shakti. Its passage became possible as ‘Modi hai to Mumkin hai’,” the PM asserted.

Caste Census Promised by Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi reiterated his commitment to conducting a caste census, calling it the “X-ray of Hindustan.” He claimed that the government was avoiding it and pledged that the Congress government would undertake this task.

Election Outlook

As both states gear up for elections, Rahul Gandhi expressed confidence in the Congress’s prospects in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and even Telangana. He predicted a close contest in Rajasthan.

The war of words between the two political leaders underscores the escalating rivalry and stakes involved in the upcoming state elections.

Summary:

• Rahul Gandhi accuses BJP of operating hidden “remote controls” for government decisions.
• PM Modi characterizes Congress as “rusted iron” that would hinder Madhya Pradesh’s progress.
• Both leaders trade barbs as Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh prepare for state elections.
• Rahul Gandhi reiterates the commitment to conduct a caste census.
• Political pundits closely watch the unfolding political drama as elections approach.

Diplomatic relations between Canada and India are teetering on the edge following allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of Canadian Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of an ongoing investigation into these allegations has sparked a series of diplomatic clashes between the two nations.

In-Depth Analysis:

The simmering tensions between Canada and India reached a boiling point in the wake of the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Canadian Sikh separatist leader. In response to Trudeau’s statement regarding “credible” allegations of Indian involvement, diplomatic relations have been strained, with significant developments unfolding:

1. Trudeau’s Investigation: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the initiation of an investigation into the allegations connecting Indian agents to Nijjar’s death. This announcement underscored Canada’s commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident.
2. Expulsions and Visa Suspensions: The allegations led to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats between the two nations. In a significant move, India temporarily suspended visas for Canadian citizens, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
3. Indian Response: India has vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing Trudeau’s claims as “absurd.” Furthermore, they issued a travel advisory warning Indian citizens about rising “anti-India activities” in Canada.
4. Canada’s Sikh Community: The largest Sikh population outside of Punjab resides in Canada. This community has often been a point of contention between the two countries. India previously labeled Nijjar as a “terrorist.”
5. Protests and Security Measures: Protests have erupted in Canada, with one protester expressing gratitude to Justin Trudeau for his efforts. Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Indian High Commissioner to Canada, acknowledged awareness of the protests and assured the implementation of security measures.
6. Sikh Rally: The Sikh community, comprising a majority in the Punjab region but only 2% of India’s population, continues to rally for their cause, further intensifying the international diplomatic crisis.

Conclusion:

The murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar has placed Canada and India on a collision course, with diplomatic relations strained and allegations of covert involvement. The international community watches closely as both nations grapple with the fallout from these accusations, which have broader implications for global diplomacy.

News Summary:

Diplomatic tensions escalate between Canada and India following allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau initiates an investigation into the claims, leading to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats and India’s temporary suspension of visas for Canadians. India denies the allegations, labeling them “absurd” and issuing a travel advisory. The Sikh community in Canada rallies for their cause, intensifying the international diplomatic crisis.

The Manipur government has taken swift action in response to the disturbing discovery of photos showing the bodies of two missing students, Hijam Linthoingambi, 17, and Phijam Hemjit, 20, that surfaced on social media after the restoration of mobile Internet in the state. The case has been promptly handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.

In an official statement issued by the Manipur Chief Minister’s Office on September 25, it was emphasized that this case was already under the jurisdiction of the CBI, aligning with the wishes of the people of the state. The images, which have since gone viral, depict the two students in a grassy compound resembling a makeshift jungle camp of an armed group.

The Manipur police, in collaboration with central security agencies, have launched an active investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the students and to identify those responsible for their murders.

The statement read: “In response to this distressing situation, the government assures the public that swift and decisive action will be taken against all those involved in the kidnapping and killing of Phijam Hemjit and Hijam Linthoingambi. The government is committed to ensuring justice prevails and will impose severe punishment on any perpetrators found responsible for this heinous crime. The Government encourages the public to exercise restraint and to let the authorities handle the investigation.”

Security forces have initiated a search operation to apprehend the culprits behind this tragic incident.

Summary:

• The Manipur government has handed over the case of two missing students, Hijam Linthoingambi, 17, and Phijam Hemjit, 20, to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following the discovery of photos depicting their bodies on social media.
• The students had been missing since July, and the case has garnered widespread attention.
• The Manipur police, in collaboration with central security agencies, are actively investigating the case to determine the circumstances of their disappearance and to identify the individuals responsible for their murders.
• The government has vowed swift and decisive action against the perpetrators and encourages the public to allow authorities to handle the investigation.