Category: National

In response to the volatile law and order situation triggered by the disappearance and killing of two Meitei teenagers, the Manipur government has imposed a full curfew in Imphal East and Imphal West districts. The decision, which comes after weeks of protests and escalating tensions, aims to prevent further unrest and safeguard lives and property in the region.

Background:

The recent turmoil began with the disappearance of Phijam Hemjit Singh and Luwangbi Linthoingambi Hijam, two Meitei teenagers who vanished over two months ago, allegedly abducted. Their mysterious disappearance sparked outrage and protests across Manipur, with citizens demanding justice and accountability.

Chronology of Events:

• Partial Curfew: Earlier this month, authorities had imposed a partial curfew in Imphal East and Imphal West districts in response to the mounting unrest. On September 26, curbs were partially relaxed to allow for the movement of people.
• Full Curfew: However, in light of the escalating law and order situation, the district magistrate issued an order on September 27, 2023, canceling the curfew relaxation and reinstating a full curfew. The curfew is in effect as of 4:00 PM on that day.
• Exemptions: The curfew allows for the movement of individuals belonging to essential services, including healthcare, electricity, municipal bodies, media, and fuel stations.

Government Response:

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured him that those responsible for the abduction and murder of the two Manipuri youths will be apprehended and held accountable. A team of officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) led by Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar has arrived in Manipur to initiate a probe into the case.

“The central and state governments are very serious about this case,” said Chief Minister Singh. He conveyed that Home Minister Shah emphasized the gravity of the situation and pledged that “no one will be spared.”

Escalating Protests:

The case of the missing teenagers took a grim turn when photos of their deceased bodies circulated on social media. This revelation further fueled protests, particularly by students in Manipur, which began on September 26. The ongoing unrest has resulted in over 60 people being injured in the state capital.

Context:

Manipur has been gripped by tension since May of the same year when ethnic clashes erupted in the northeastern state. The clashes have led to the loss of more than 175 lives and left several hundred people injured.

In Summary:

• The Manipur government has imposed a full curfew in Imphal East and Imphal West districts amid protests over the killing of two Meitei teenagers who went missing over two months ago.
• The curfew was initially partial but was reinstated as the law and order situation deteriorated.
• Essential services are exempted from the curfew, and a CBI team has been dispatched to investigate the case.
• Photos of the deceased teenagers’ bodies circulating on social media have intensified protests in Manipur, which has been grappling with ethnic clashes since May, resulting in numerous casualties.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in a move that has sparked accusations of political vendetta, has obtained clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged financial irregularities surrounding the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence. The decision comes months after Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and the BJP raised concerns over the renovation expenditure.

Background:

• The MHA’s approval follows a request from Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who had urged the Centre to transfer the case to the CBI.
• The BJP had previously cited documents indicating an expenditure of ₹44.78 crore for the “addition/alteration” of the CM’s residence, exceeding the sanctioned amount of ₹43.70 crore.

CBI Preliminary Enquiry:

• The CBI has initiated a preliminary enquiry to investigate the charges, with a focus on the involvement of unidentified public servants within the Delhi government.
• This preliminary enquiry is the first step to determine if the allegations warrant the initiation of a formal FIR.

AAP Accusations:

• In response to the MHA’s decision, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the BJP of a “concerted effort” to undermine them and restrain Chief Minister Kejriwal “using all agencies.”
• The AAP asserted that over 50 cases have been filed against Kejriwal in the past, with no evidence found, and they believe the current probe will yield similar results.

CBI’s Request for Records:

• The anti-corruption branch of the CBI has requested records from the Public Works Department (PWD) related to the approval and recommendations of its officials concerning alterations, tender documents, bids submitted by contractors, approval of building plans, and client requests for specifications such as modular kitchens and ornamental work.

The CBI’s preliminary enquiry into the alleged financial irregularities in the renovation of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence has raised questions about political motivations. The AAP has accused the BJP of targeting them through various agencies, while the BJP and Lieutenant Governor Saxena maintain their concerns over the renovation expenses.

Summary:

• The BJP has secured MHA clearance for a CBI probe into financial irregularities in Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal‘s residence renovation.
• The decision has sparked accusations of political vendetta from the AAP, who claim the BJP aims to restrain their Chief Minister.
• A preliminary enquiry by the CBI is underway, focusing on unidentified public servants in the Delhi government.
• The AAP contends that previous cases against Kejriwal yielded no evidence and expects the same outcome in this investigation.

In a bid to energize the BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April-May next year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to visit Jammu and Kashmir. During their visits, they will address rallies and launch various development projects and welfare initiatives for the Union Territory’s residents.

Modi is set to make a one-day visit to the region, while Shah’s visit is anticipated to span between two to three days, contingent upon his final schedule, according to senior BJP leaders who have prepared a draft itinerary.

While the Home Minister has already given his consent to the tour program, formal approval from the Prime Minister is expected once the Union Territory Government finalizes the detailed list of projects and welfare schemes for inauguration.

The BJP leaders express confidence in Shah’s visit in October and Modi’s visit either in November or December. The schedule includes the Prime Minister addressing one program each in the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. The Jammu division program is expected to be held in Jammu, and the Kashmir division’s event is likely to take place in Anantnag district. The final approval for these tours will be made in consultation with the Union Territory Government, which has been drafting a series of welfare measures and schemes for announcement by Narendra Modi.

According to the BJP leaders, numerous development projects are nearing completion in both divisions of the Union Territory, with some more projects set to be launched. The Prime Minister is expected to initiate and inaugurate the major projects in both divisions.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been requested by the party leadership to address at least three rallies in Jammu division, including one each in Poonch and Doda districts, and a third in either Udhampur or Kathua district. In the Kashmir Valley, he is expected to hold a massive rally in Anantnag.

During his three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir in October of the previous year, Amit Shah addressed a rally each in Rajouri and Baramulla and announced that Paharis would receive Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. He also reviewed the security scenario in the Union Territory and launched projects worth billions of rupees.

The visit of the Union Home Minister, followed by the Prime Minister, is set to sound the poll bugle for Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which are due in April-May next year.

Apart from this, the BJP leadership has also requested party president Jagat Prakash Nadda to make a two to three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir at his convenience, although his tour is yet to be finalized. Nevertheless, Nadda is expected to visit the Union Territory before the announcement of Parliamentary polls.

Party leaders have been instructed by their national leadership to ensure that the BJP secures at least three Lok Sabha seats from Jammu and Kashmir and puts up a strong fight in the remaining two. The party intends to contest all five seats with full force.

The BJP had previously won the Udhampur-Doda and Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seats for two consecutive terms in 2014 and 2019. Additionally, it secured the Ladakh Parliamentary seat for both terms. However, Ladakh is now a separate Union Territory.

Besides the Jammu and Udhampur seats, whose boundaries have been altered by the Delimitation Commission to favor the BJP, the party is also eyeing the South Kashmir-Poonch constituency, which has a significant number of Pahari electorates, to whom the Central Government is slated to grant Scheduled Tribe status ahead of the Parliamentary polls. In case of a low voter turnout in South Kashmir districts like Anantnag and Pulwama, the BJP sees an opportunity on this seat as well.

News Summary:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah plan to visit Jammu and Kashmir to bolster the BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in April-May.
• Modi’s visit will be a one-day event, while Shah’s visit may span two to three days.
• The visits will include addressing rallies and launching development projects and welfare measures.
• BJP leaders are confident about Shah’s visit in October and Modi’s visit in November or December.
• The Union Territory Government is finalizing a list of projects and welfare schemes for inauguration.
• The visits are expected to kickstart the BJP’s election campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The BJP aims to secure at least three Lok Sabha seats in the region and compete vigorously in the remaining two.
• The party previously won the Udhampur-Doda and Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seats in 2014 and 2019.
• The BJP is also eyeing the South Kashmir-Poonch constituency, which may benefit from Scheduled Tribe status.

Delhi Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code following an incident where pro-Khalistani graffiti was discovered on the walls under the Kashmiri Gate flyover on September 27, according to reports from the Asian News International (ANI). The incident occurred amid ongoing tensions between India and Canada following the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada on June 18 this year.

Graffiti Removed: The pro-Khalistani graffiti that had marred the area has since been removed.

Tensions Escalate: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada recently announced that intelligence agencies were investigating “credible” allegations linking Indian agents to Nijjar’s death. These allegations have intensified the diplomatic strain between the two nations, resulting in reciprocal expulsions of diplomats and India’s temporary suspension of visas for Canadians.

India’s Response: India has dismissed Trudeau’s claims as “absurd” and issued a travel advisory warning its citizens about increasing “anti-India activities” in Canada.

Previous Incidents: In August, Delhi Police detained two individuals in connection with the writing of pro-Khalistan messages on the walls of at least five Delhi Metro stations ahead of the G20 Summit. Pro-Khalistan messages, including slogans such as “Delhi Banega Khalistan” and “Khalistan Zindabad,” were discovered on the walls of several metro stations and a government school in Nangloi.

A video purportedly released by the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) further highlighted the defaced walls of the metro stations. In the video, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, spokesperson for SFJ, announced plans for a Khalistan referendum in Canada during the G20 Summit held in Delhi on September 10.

Earlier Incidents: Prior to these incidents, “anti-national” and “Khalistan-related” graffiti had appeared on walls in several areas of west Delhi, including Vikaspuri, Janakpuri, Paschim Vihar, and Peeragarhi on January 19, ahead of Republic Day.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic negotiations continue between India and Canada over the allegations and rising tensions.

Summary:

• Delhi Police register case over pro-Khalistani graffiti near Kashmiri Gate flyover.
• Tensions escalate between India and Canada following the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• Canada’s Prime Minister Trudeau claims credible allegations linking Indian agents to Nijjar’s death.
• India responds dismissively, issuing travel advisory for its citizens in Canada.
• Previous incidents of pro-Khalistan graffiti and tensions between the two nations outlined.

In response to rising tensions between India and Canada, the University of Toronto has taken proactive measures to support its students and faculty. The institution, home to over 2,400 international students from India, has unveiled a comprehensive set of services aimed at addressing stress, mental health, and immigration concerns.

Academic Support Services:
For undergraduate students, a dedicated helpdesk has been established to facilitate direct communication with faculty or college registrars. Graduate students can similarly reach out to their respective departments or the School of Graduate Studies for assistance.

Mental Health Portal:
Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, the university has launched a mental health portal. Additionally, the U of T Telus Health Student Support will offer 24/7 support through phone or chat services.

The University of Toronto emphasized its commitment to fostering academic collaborations in India and providing global learning opportunities for its students. Despite the suspension of visa processing for travelers from Canada, the institution expressed its dedication to maintaining relationships through online interactions.

“We will continue to build these relationships through online interactions…We look forward to continuing and deepening these relationships, aligned with our mutual goal of making a difference locally and globally,” stated the university.

Last week, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a cautionary advisory to Indian nationals and students in Canada due to strained relations between the two countries. They were advised to avoid regions and venues in Canada with growing anti-India activities.

The Consulate General of India in Toronto has also extended its consular services for Indian nationals in Canada, emphasizing the importance of registration to facilitate better communication during emergencies.

The University of Toronto’s proactive measures demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of its international student community and its dedication to fostering global academic partnerships.

Summary:

• University of Toronto introduces support services amid India-Canada tensions.
• Academic support services available for undergraduate and graduate students.
• Mental health portal and 24/7 support services introduced.
• University reaffirms commitment to academic collaborations in India.
• Indian nationals and students in Canada advised to exercise caution.
• Consulate General of India in Toronto extends consular services for Indian citizens in Canada.

In a display of solidarity, farmers from multiple states across India have joined hands with their counterparts in Punjab to stage a three-day “rail roko” protest, demanding financial assistance for flood-affected individuals and a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) among other pressing issues.

Announced by Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, this decisive move follows a pivotal gathering of representatives hailing from 19 distinct farmers’ groups.

Major Points:

1. Nationwide Farmer Solidarity: The ongoing “rail roko” protest, primarily organized in Punjab, has garnered widespread support from farmers’ outfits in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, showcasing nationwide farmer solidarity.
2. Pressing Demands: The protesting farmers have put forth several critical demands, including financial relief packages for those affected by recent floods in northern India, a legally binding assurance for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) across all crop categories, and comprehensive debt waivers.
3. Geographic Reach: The “rail roko” protests are set to take place at 12 locations across Punjab, including Moga, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, Patiala, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Amritsar.
4. Unity Among Farmer Bodies: Various farmer organizations have rallied behind this movement, including the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Bharti Kisan Union (Krantikari), Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Azaad), and others from states across India.

Statements:

Sarwan Singh Pandher, General Secretary of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, stated, “Farmers are facing tremendous challenges, and we are united in our demand for support, fair pricing, and relief from the burdens of debt.”

In Recent Protests:

Earlier this month, approximately 100 farmers in Maharashtra’s Sangli district staged a “rail roko” protest against land acquisition by the railways. This led to the Kolhapur-Gondia Maharashtra Express coming to a standstill for over four hours in the Bhilwadi-Nandre area in Palus tehsil. The Maharashtra farmers are calling for a joint measurement process with the district administration regarding land acquisition.

Summary:

Farmers from across India have come together in a united “rail roko” protest in Punjab, demanding financial aid for flood-affected individuals, a legal guarantee for the MSP, and comprehensive debt waivers. This show of solidarity includes support from farmer organizations in various states and emphasizes the collective voice of the farming community in India.

Summary Bullet Points:

• Farmers from multiple states join Punjab’s “rail roko” protest for financial relief and MSP assurance.
• Demands include financial aid for flood-affected individuals, legal MSP guarantee, and debt waivers.
• Protests to be held at 12 locations in Punjab with nationwide farmer support.
• Various farmer organizations unite behind the movement.
• Earlier in Maharashtra, farmers protested land acquisition by railways, causing train disruptions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for Mumbai and surrounding areas as unpredictable weather patterns continue to affect the region. Here are the latest updates:

Yellow Alert for Mumbai and Suburbs on Thursday:

• IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for Mumbai and its suburbs for Thursday, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds at one or two places.

Yellow Alert for Palghar, Raigad, and Thane:

• Similar ‘yellow’ alerts have been issued for Palghar, Raigad, and Thane for the next two days, raising concerns of adverse weather conditions in these regions.

Orange Alert in Ratnagiri:

• An ‘orange’ alert has been issued for Ratnagiri, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, urging residents to stay cautious.

Flight Delays at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport:

• On Wednesday, continuous rainfall led to delays in flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. IndiGo attributed these delays to “bad weather” and “weather and air traffic congestion.”

Monsoon Revival and Meteorological Factors:

• Mumbai has experienced consistent rainfall this month following a break in August attributed to the El Nino effect. Meteorologists suggest that a convergence of various meteorological factors has contributed to this monsoon revival.

Upcoming Weather Forecast for Friday and the Weekend:

• For Friday, IMD forecasts “moderate to heavy rain or thundershowers” in most places in South Konkan Goa and South Madhya Maharashtra, with “light to moderate rain or thundershowers” in North Konkan and a few places in North Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.
• Over the weekend, moderate to heavy rain or thundershowers are expected in most places in South Konkan Goa and many places in South Madhya Maharashtra, with similar conditions anticipated in North Konkan. In addition, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are expected in most places in North Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada.

Conclusion:
Residents of Mumbai and surrounding areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for varying weather conditions, as IMD continues to monitor and update forecasts.

Summary:

• IMD issues ‘yellow’ alert for Mumbai, Palghar, Raigad, and Thane, warning of thunderstorms and gusty winds.
• An ‘orange’ alert is issued for Ratnagiri due to heavy rainfall predictions.
• Flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport affected by continuous rainfall.
• Monsoon revival in Mumbai attributed to a combination of meteorological factors.
• IMD forecasts varying rain patterns for different parts of Maharashtra over the next few days.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the birth anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, by paying heartfelt tributes to his enduring legacy. In a video message shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Modi hailed Bhagat Singh as a symbol of unwavering courage and a beacon of inspiration in India’s relentless pursuit of justice and liberty.

Modi expressed, “Remembering Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the cause of India’s freedom continue to inspire generations.”

Prominent Leaders Join in Paying Homage

Leaders from across the political spectrum joined Prime Minister Modi in honoring Bhagat Singh’s memory. Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor, [Name], called upon the nation to work collectively towards realizing the dreams of Bhagat Singh, envisioning India as the world’s foremost nation.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann evoked the indomitable spirit of Bhagat Singh, emphasizing that his ideals and revolutionary fervor would forever remain ingrained in the hearts and minds of the people.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to Bhagat Singh’s unparalleled dedication and sacrifice for the country, underscoring how his legacy continues to inspire each generation.

A Life Committed to Freedom

Born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab, Bhagat Singh’s early exposure to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre instilled in him a profound determination to free India from British colonial rule. At the tender age of 12, he took a solemn oath to dedicate his life to this noble cause.

In 1931, at the age of 23, Bhagat Singh was sentenced to death by the British government in the Lahore conspiracy case. Alongside fellow revolutionaries Sukhdev and Rajguru, he sought retribution for the brutal beating and death of Lala Lajpat Rai, ultimately targeting police officer John P. Saunders.

Their executions on March 23, 1931, prior to their scheduled trial on March 24, sent shockwaves across the nation and left an enduring void in the hearts of the people.

Calls for Bharat Ratna Honor

In a move to honor the legacies of iconic freedom fighters, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had previously advocated for conferring the prestigious Bharat Ratna award upon Bhagat Singh, Udham Singh, and Kartar Singh Sarabha. He believed that recognizing their supreme sacrifices in liberating the nation from British rule would elevate the significance of the award.

The profound influence of Bhagat Singh’s commitment to India’s freedom struggle endures to this day, as the nation celebrates his birth anniversary with reverence and gratitude.

News Summary:

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh, lauding his enduring dedication to India’s freedom.
• Leaders from various political backgrounds, including Delhi Chief Minister [Name] and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, paid homage to Bhagat Singh, emphasizing his everlasting impact.
• Bhagat Singh, born in 1907, dedicated his life to India’s freedom struggle and was executed by the British government at the age of 23.
• His commitment to the cause continues to inspire generations, and there are calls to posthumously award him the Bharat Ratna.
• Bhagat Singh’s legacy remains an integral part of India’s history, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made in its quest for independence.

BJP President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a late-night strategy meeting in Jaipur to deliberate on the party’s approach for the forthcoming Rajasthan assembly elections. The meeting, which commenced at a Jaipur hotel on Wednesday evening and extended into the early hours, marked a significant milestone in the party’s election preparations.

In a significant development, the BJP has resolved to field Union Ministers and Members of Parliament on challenging electoral battlegrounds, indicating their commitment to securing victory in the polls.

The meeting follows the party’s announcement of three Union ministers and four MPs as candidates in the second list for the poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, underlining the BJP’s dedication to putting forward strong contenders in crucial constituencies.

Sources within the BJP’s Rajasthan unit have hinted at the possibility of Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat contesting in the assembly elections, alongside other Members of Parliament.

One of the most noteworthy decisions to emerge from the meeting was the party’s choice to forgo projecting a Chief Ministerial face during the campaign. Instead, the BJP aims to adopt a collective leadership approach, emphasizing the party’s interests over individual ambitions and rivalries.

The move is strategically aimed at preventing conflicts among regional leaders and reinforcing the party’s core principle of “party above individual.”

Prominent leaders who could potentially assume the role of Rajasthan Chief Minister if the BJP secures victory include Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena, and Lok Sabha MPs Diya Kumar and Sukhveer Singh Jaunpuria.

Surprisingly, Vasundhara Raje, a two-term Chief Minister and a member of the Scindia royal family, has not been projected as the presumptive Chief Minister, despite being widely regarded as the BJP’s most influential leader in the state.

As the election season gathers momentum, the BJP’s strategic decisions are poised to shape the political landscape in Rajasthan and impact the forthcoming assembly polls.

News Summary:

• BJP President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah held an extensive meeting in Jaipur to formulate the party’s strategy for the upcoming Rajasthan assembly elections.
• The BJP plans to field Union Ministers and Members of Parliament on challenging seats, showcasing their determination to secure victory.
• Notably, the party has decided not to project a Chief Ministerial candidate during the campaign, opting for a collective leadership approach to mitigate rivalries and reinforce the principle of “party above individual.”
• Potential Chief Ministerial candidates if the BJP wins include Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena, and Lok Sabha MPs Diya Kumar and Sukhveer Singh Jaunpuria.
• Vasundhara Raje, a prominent BJP leader in Rajasthan, has not been projected as the presumptive Chief Minister, despite her significant influence in the state.
• These strategic decisions are expected to shape the political landscape in Rajasthan as the assembly polls approach.