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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated a sweeping operation spanning six Indian states, targeting associates of notorious gang leaders Lawrence Bishnoi, Bambiha, and Arshdeep Dalla, with alleged connections to Canada. The raids, conducted at 51 locations, aim to clamp down on criminal networks involved in extortion, terror activities, and illegal arms trade.

In the early hours of today, NIA agents descended upon a residence in Punjab’s Moga district, belonging to a liquor contractor who had been targeted by Arshdeep Dalla. Dalla had allegedly demanded ransom from the contractor and received a portion of it. The NIA is diligently investigating this matter.

Further actions by the NIA included the raiding of a gun store in the Bajpur police station area of Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand. Another operation was conducted in the Clementown police station area of Dehradun district, Uttarakhand. Sources indicate that the NIA team is meticulously examining the firearms inventory in the raided gun store.

In a significant move, the NIA had earlier released information on 43 individuals associated with the terror gangster network with suspected ties to Canada. The agency has appealed to the public to share information regarding their properties and assets that could potentially be seized by the government. This includes assets held directly or indirectly, along with details of associates, friends, relatives, business partners, employees, and collection agents linked to these individuals.

The NIA’s release also featured photographs and names of prominent figures within these criminal networks, including Lawrence Bishnoi, Jasdeep Singh, Kala Jatheri alias Sandeep, Virender Pratap alias Kala Rana, and Joginder Singh, highlighting that many of these gangsters have found refuge in Canada.

Previously, the NIA had seized properties belonging to Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in Chandigarh and Amritsar under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. A property confiscation notice was recently posted outside Pannun’s residence in Chandigarh.

On September 21, the NIA, in collaboration with Punjab police, executed raids at over 1,000 locations in Punjab and Haryana targeting fugitive gangster Goldy Brar. Goldy Brar, a prime target for the NIA, is believed to be linked to the assassination of another gangster, Sukha Dunike, in Winnipeg, Canada.

Numerous of these wanted gangsters are believed to operate from Canada, underscoring the close nexus between Khalistan sympathizers and criminal organizations. In 2018, India handed a list of nine Khalistani operatives purportedly residing in Canada to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his visit to Amritsar.

News Summary:

• The NIA launches extensive raids across six Indian states targeting associates of gang leaders with suspected links to Canada.
• The operations, covering 51 locations, aim to combat criminal networks involved in extortion, terror activities, and the illegal arms trade.
• In Punjab’s Moga district, the NIA investigates a liquor contractor’s residence after extortion demands by Arshdeep Dalla.
• Raids also extend to a gun store in Uttarakhand, where NIA agents meticulously inspect firearms inventory.
• The NIA previously released information on 43 individuals tied to the gangster network, urging the public to share details of their properties and assets.
• Several prominent gangsters, including Lawrence Bishnoi and Kala Jatheri, are known to have taken refuge in Canada.
• Recent raids by the NIA have targeted assets of Khalistani terrorists, highlighting the close links between sympathizers and gangsters based in Canada.

The disappearance of two Manipur students, Hijam Linthoingambi, 17, and Phijam Hemjit, 20, who went missing in July 2023, has sent shockwaves through the community. Recent photographs of the students surfaced on social media, revealing their whereabouts in what seems to be a makeshift jungle camp. In an emotional interview with NDTV, the parents of Hemjit expressed their anguish, promising to stop serving food at his table.

The perplexing case began on July 6, when Linthoingambi left home to attend NEET classes for pre-medical studies. Accompanied by her friend Hemjit, they embarked on a motorcycle journey along the Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts route, taking advantage of a temporary curfew relaxation.

According to Hijam Kullajit, Linthoingambi’s father, their phones were last tracked to Kwakta and Lamdan. “Her phone was last switched off at Kwakta, and her friend’s phone was switched off at Lamdan,” he told NDTV. Linthoingambi’s mother, Jayashree, added, “She seemed frightened and told me that she was in Nambol. I asked her why she was at Nambol, and she told me her exact location so that we could pick her up. It was Khoupum, and her phone got switched off.”

Desperate for answers, Linthoingambi’s father, alongside Hemjit’s family, are demanding justice for their children. Phijam Ibungobi, Hemjit’s father, questioned, “Has my son or the girl done anything wrong? Did they harm anyone?”

The Manipur state government has pledged “swift and decisive” action against those responsible for the abduction and tragic loss of these two students. Authorities have called for public restraint, urging citizens to allow professionals to conduct the investigation. The police are collaborating with central security agencies to uncover the full details of the incident.

The state of Manipur has been embroiled in widespread violence since May, following a high court directive that recommended considering the non-tribal Meitei community for inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes (ST), sparking ethnic clashes. The unrest has resulted in over 170 fatalities and numerous injuries.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in their quest for justice, awaiting answers to the mysterious disappearance of these two young students.

News Summary:

• The disappearance of Manipur students Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemjit has shocked the community, with recent photos suggesting they were in a makeshift jungle camp.
• Linthoingambi and Hemjit vanished in July after leaving for NEET classes, with their phones last traced to different locations.
• The families of the missing students are demanding justice, and the Manipur state government has promised swift action.
• Manipur has witnessed widespread violence since May, following ethnic clashes prompted by a high court directive, resulting in over 170 casualties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 20th anniversary of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, hailing its transformation from humble beginnings into a formidable platform for industrial growth. During the event, he reflected on the early challenges and unveiled a slew of development projects in Gujarat, underscoring the state’s remarkable journey.

The Journey of Vibrant Gujarat:

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Modi stated, “The event started at a time when the Centre was indifferent to the industrial progress of the state.” He went on to praise the summit’s remarkable success over two decades, comparing it to a small seed that has now grown into a substantial tree.

“When Vibrant Gujarat was started,” he reminisced, “there were no big hotels in Gujarat where foreign guests could stay. Even government guesthouses used to get full, and we used even University guesthouses…”

A Platform for Self-Confidence and Global Interaction:

Modi emphasized that Vibrant Gujarat not only revitalized the state but also laid the foundation for its future growth. He described it as a channel to boost the self-confidence of Gujarat and a means to engage with the world on equal footing. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he remarked, “Every work goes through three stages – first, it is mocked, later it faces opposition, and finally, it is accepted.”

Inauguration of Development Projects:

During the event, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated development projects worth ₹5,206 crores in Chhota Udepur, Gujarat. These projects include village Wi-Fi facilities in 22 districts, promoting digital connectivity across the state.

Additionally, the Gujarat government announced that PM Modi would inaugurate projects worth ₹4,505 crore under the Mission Schools of Excellence. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of education and infrastructure in Gujarat’s schools.

Other Projects Inaugurated:

• A new Navodaya Vidyalaya, constructed at a cost of ₹23 crore in Dahod, was inaugurated.
• An FM Radio Studio, built at a cost of ₹10 crore, was also officially opened.

The village Wi-Fi facilities, set to benefit 20 lakh beneficiaries in 7,500 villages across 22 districts, reflect the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in rural areas.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Gujarat reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering growth, education, and technological advancement in the state.

News Summary:

• Prime Minister Modi celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, highlighting its evolution into a catalyst for industrial growth.
• In his speech, Modi recalls the early challenges of the summit and emphasizes its role in boosting Gujarat’s self-confidence on the global stage.
• The Prime Minister inaugurates development projects worth billions, including village Wi-Fi facilities and initiatives to enhance educational excellence.
• Other projects unveiled include a new Navodaya Vidyalaya and an FM Radio Studio, aimed at improving education and communication infrastructure.
• The village Wi-Fi facilities will benefit 20 lakh beneficiaries across 7,500 villages in Gujarat.

Indian External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has raised concerns about Canada’s alleged inaction against terrorists and extremists residing within its borders. Speaking at a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York, Jaishankar suggested that political convenience may be hindering Canada’s response to the issue.

Jaishankar highlighted, “Canada actually has seen a lot of organized crime relating to the secessionist forces, organized crime, violent extremism.” He expressed his concerns about the permissive environment and the threat it posed to Indian diplomats.

The remarks come amidst a growing diplomatic rift between India and Canada following the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While Jaishankar did not directly accuse Canada of harboring terrorists or providing a safe haven for extremists, he emphasized the need for concrete action.

“We have a situation where, actually, our diplomats are threatened,” Jaishankar stated, alluding to the safety concerns faced by Indian diplomatic personnel.

Despite repeated inquiries about the alleged involvement of Indian officials in Nijjar’s death, Jaishankar declined to comment directly on the matter. He did, however, reiterate India’s stance on the issue, saying, “This is not the government of India’s policy. If you have something specific, if you have something relevant, let us know. We are open to looking at it.”

In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar urged for UN reform and a more inclusive approach. He cautioned against allowing “political convenience” to dictate responses to terrorism or violence.

Jaishankar emphasized that respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs should not be selectively applied, suggesting that nations should refrain from cherry-picking issues.

While the minister did not explicitly mention Canada in his UN speech, it is worth noting that the Indian government has previously accused Canada of turning a blind eye to extremism among its influential Sikh diaspora.

Summary:

• Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar accuses Canada of not taking action against terrorists and extremists living in the country.
• Jaishankar suggests that political convenience may be influencing Canada’s response to the issue.
• He raises concerns about the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada.
• Jaishankar refrains from commenting directly on the alleged involvement of Indian officials in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• At the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar calls for UN reform and warns against allowing political convenience to determine responses to terrorism.
• The Indian government has previously accused Canada of ignoring evidence of extremism within its Sikh diaspora.

TORONTO – As Canada gears up to welcome an unprecedented wave of immigrants, primarily international students, a housing crisis and a dearth of part-time jobs are casting a shadow over the Canadian dream for young Indians in their twenties.

In 2023, Canada is set to embrace approximately 500,000 permanent residents, in addition to a staggering 900,000 international students, underlining the nation’s commitment to fostering economic growth and resilience through immigration. However, this commendable drive coincides with a housing crisis that has sent shockwaves across the country.

Housing Shortage and Soaring Interest Rates

The Canadian housing market has been grappling with an acute shortage of affordable housing units. Construction has failed to keep pace with the surging demand, making it increasingly challenging for both Canadians and newcomers to secure suitable accommodation. International students, who have historically relied on part-time jobs to sustain themselves while pursuing education thousands of kilometers away from home, are particularly hard-hit.

To exacerbate the situation, record-high interest rates have further compounded the housing woes. These rates have pushed the dream of owning a home beyond the reach of many Canadians and immigrants alike.

Government’s Immigration Drive

Canada’s commitment to welcoming immigrants has been a cornerstone of its economic strategy, aiming to fuel growth and resilience. However, critics argue that the government’s ambitious immigration targets must be met with a corresponding investment in housing infrastructure and job opportunities to ensure the success and well-being of newcomers.

Student Struggles

Indian students, who form a substantial part of the international student population in Canada, are bearing the brunt of these challenges. Many have found themselves in precarious living situations, struggling to make ends meet without the availability of part-time jobs that have traditionally been a lifeline for them.

Neha Sharma, a 24-year-old student from New Delhi studying in Toronto, expressed her concerns, saying, “Coming to Canada was a dream, but the reality has been tough. Finding affordable housing is a constant struggle, and with fewer job opportunities, it’s been harder than expected to cover expenses.”

Government Response and Future Prospects

In response to the housing crisis, the Canadian government has initiated measures to increase housing construction and affordability. However, these efforts may take time to yield significant results.

As Canada continues its pursuit of immigration-driven economic growth, finding a balance between welcoming newcomers and ensuring their successful integration into the Canadian society will remain a formidable challenge. Addressing the housing crisis and providing ample job opportunities will be pivotal in transforming the Canadian dream into a reality for all those who seek it.

In Summary:

• A housing crisis and limited part-time job opportunities are dimming the Canadian dream for Indian students.
• Canada is set to welcome 500,000 permanent residents and 900,000 international students in 2023.
• The housing shortage and soaring interest rates have made housing unaffordable for many.
• Critics call for increased investment in housing infrastructure and job opportunities to support newcomers.
• Indian students, a significant part of the international student community, are facing challenges in finding affordable housing and jobs.
• The government is taking measures to address the housing crisis, but long-term solutions are needed to ensure immigrant success.

In the wake of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau‘s controversial statements linking New Delhi to the killing of Sikh separatist advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, Canadian Sikhs have taken to the streets, staging protests outside India’s diplomatic missions. Trudeau’s claims have heightened tensions between the two nations, resulting in diplomatic expulsions and visa suspensions. Here’s a closer look at the unfolding events:

Protests Erupt in Canadian Cities:

• About 100 protesters in Toronto set an Indian flag ablaze and symbolically struck a cardboard cut-out of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a shoe. Approximately 200 demonstrators also gathered outside the Vancouver consulate.

Safety Concerns and Allegations:

• Joe Hotha, a member of the Sikh community in Toronto, voiced the fear many Sikhs share: “We are not safe back home in Punjab. We are not safe in Canada.” Another protester, Harpar Gosal, accused Indian authorities of being terrorists, claiming they were responsible for Nijjar’s death.

Support for Khalistan:

• In Ottawa, fewer than 100 people congregated in front of the Indian high commissioner’s office, waving yellow flags bearing the word “Khalistan,” a reference to their support for an independent Sikh state in India’s Punjab region—a cause Nijjar had campaigned for.

Thankfulness Towards Trudeau:

• Reshma Singh Bolinas expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Trudeau, emphasizing the need to uncover the truth behind Nijjar’s killing and urging Canada to pressure India to prevent further violence against innocent people.

Canada’s Sikh Community and India’s Response:

• Canada is home to approximately 770,000 Sikhs, the largest Sikh population outside Punjab. Recent demonstrations in Canada have strained relations between the two countries.
• India has dismissed Trudeau’s allegations as “absurd” and cautioned its citizens about growing “anti-India activities” in Canada.

International Implications:

• The accusations have drawn international attention and resulted in both countries expelling diplomats and India suspending visas for Canadians.

Demand for Diplomatic Expulsion:

• Some protesters in Toronto and Ottawa called for the expulsion of the Indian high commissioner, Sanjay Kumar Verma, who assured authorities were providing security.

Nijjar’s Background:

• Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a plumber, left Punjab for Canada 25 years ago and became a Canadian citizen. India designated him a “terrorist” in 2020.
• The Canadian government reported collecting human and signals intelligence during a months-long investigation into Nijjar’s activities.

US-Canada Collaboration:

• The United States collaborated closely with Canada in the intelligence gathering, indicating possible involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar’s killing.

These protests and allegations have exposed the delicate situation involving Canada’s Sikh community, India, and the complexities of international relations. The ongoing diplomatic fallout underscores the need for a thorough investigation to ascertain the truth behind Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s tragic death.

Summary:

• Canadian Sikhs protest outside Indian diplomatic missions in Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa.
• Prime Minister Trudeau’s allegations of Indian involvement in Sikh advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing have escalated tensions.
• Demonstrators express concerns for their safety and support for Khalistan.
• Canada’s Sikh community is the largest outside Punjab, India.
• Diplomatic expulsions and visa suspensions follow Trudeau’s accusations.
• Protesters demand the expulsion of the Indian high commissioner in Canada.
• Hardeep Singh Nijjar was designated a “terrorist” by India in 2020.
• The United States collaborates with Canada on intelligence related to Nijjar’s killing.

As anticipation builds ahead of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has responded to swirling reports suggesting that he might be sidelined by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The absence of his name on the candidate list for the state election had fueled speculation that the incumbent chief minister was being deserted by the party leadership. In contrast, prominent leaders like Kailash Vijayvargiya have been named as candidates, prompting questions about Chouhan’s political future.

Addressing these reports, Shivraj Singh Chouhan sought to quell any concerns by stating, “This has ensured BJP’s big victory. All our senior leaders will contest…”

While NDTV has reported that claims of Chouhan being denied a ticket were “wrong,” they added that “any big leader can become chief minister post-election.”

The BJP recently unveiled its candidate list for the Amarwara assembly constituency, which is reserved for Schedule Tribes (ST) in Chhindwara district. Monika Batti, who recently switched to the BJP from the Gondwana Gantantra Party, will represent the BJP in this seat.

In a significant development, the BJP released its third list for the upcoming assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, which featured a single candidate. Earlier, the party released a second list of 39 candidates, which included four Members of Parliament (MPs) and three Union Ministers.

Union Ministers Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Singh Patel have been nominated as candidates for the Dimani and Narsinghpur constituencies, respectively. Similarly, Union Minister Faggan Singh Kulaste will contest from the Niwas constituency.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and BJP MP Rakesh Singh have been fielded from Indore-1 and Jabalpur Paschim constituencies, respectively. Notable candidates in the list also included MPs Ganesh Mantri, Rakesh Singh, and Reeti Pathak.

The BJP initially unveiled its first list of candidates for the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections on August 17, revealing the names of 39 candidates. The state is gearing up for Assembly polls later this year, where voters will elect legislators from 230 Assembly constituencies.

News Summary:

• Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan responds to speculation about his political future amid reports of being sidelined by the BJP ahead of the state’s Assembly election.
• BJP leaders deny reports of Chouhan being denied a ticket but suggest that any prominent leader could become chief minister post-election.
• BJP releases candidate lists for assembly constituencies, including notable leaders and Union Ministers. The party is preparing for Assembly polls in the state later this year.

The construction of the ground floor of the three-storey Ram Temple in Ayodhya is on track to be completed by the end of December, with the consecration (pran pratishtha) ceremony scheduled for January 22, according to Nripendra Mishra, the Chairperson of the Ram Temple Construction Committee.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to participate in an event related to the “pran pratishtha” between January 20 and 24, as confirmed by Mishra in an interview with PTI. The final date for Modi’s participation is yet to be communicated by the Prime Minister’s Office.

“It was planned to complete the construction of the ground floor of the temple by December 2023, and this work will definitely be completed within the stipulated time,” Mishra assured.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple project is the creation of an apparatus designed to be installed on the “shikhar” of the temple. This apparatus, currently under construction in Bengaluru under the supervision of scientists, will momentarily allow sun rays to fall on the forehead of the deity in the sanctum sanctorum on the auspicious day of Ram Navami each year.

The much-awaited Ram Temple is expected to be open to devotees on January 24 after the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol. Mishra had previously indicated this timeline back in June.

In 2019, the Supreme Court’s landmark judgement paved the way for the construction of the Ram Temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya.

The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is preparing to formally invite Prime Minister Modi to the consecration ceremony, during which the idol of Ram Lalla will be installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The process of consecrating Ram Lalla is likely to commence after Makar Sankranti on January 14, and it will involve a 10-day ritual of Ram Lalla’s “pran pratishtha.”

Mishra emphasized that the temple is being constructed with a vision of lasting for at least 1,000 years.

News Summary:

• The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya’s ground floor is set to conclude by the end of December, with the consecration ceremony slated for January 22. Prime Minister Modi is expected to participate between January 20 and 24.
• A unique apparatus, designed to make sun rays fall momentarily on the deity’s forehead, is under development in Bengaluru.
• The temple is expected to open for devotees on January 24, following the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol, with the process starting after Makar Sankranti on January 14.
• The temple is constructed with the intent of lasting for at least 1,000 years.
• In 2019, a Supreme Court judgement cleared the way for the temple’s construction at the disputed site in Ayodhya.