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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.

The United States has voiced its “deep concern” regarding the allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, implicating India in the assassination of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The US Department of State spokesperson, Matthew Miller, emphasized the importance of an ongoing Canadian investigation and urged India’s cooperation in the matter.

Addressing a press briefing, Miller stated, “We are deeply concerned by the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau. We remain in close contact with our Canadian partners. We believe it’s critical that Canada’s investigation proceed, and that the perpetrators be brought to justice. And we have publicly and privately urged the Indian Government to cooperate in the Canadian investigation.”

Tensions between India and Canada have escalated since Trudeau’s allegations. India has vehemently denied any involvement, dismissing the claims as “absurd and motivated.” Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India, was killed in Canada’s Surrey on June 18.

Meanwhile, US Representative Jim Costa has called for an investigation into Nijjar’s killing, expressing concern and requesting an official briefing. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also echoed the US’s “deep concern” over Trudeau’s allegations and emphasized the importance of accountability and a thorough investigation.

Blinken stated, “It is critical that the Canadian investigation proceed. And it would be important that India work with the Canadians on this investigation. We want to see accountability, and it’s important that the investigation run its course and lead to that result.”

While not divulging details of diplomatic discussions, Blinken underscored the need for the investigation to move forward and be completed. He also highlighted the US’s vigilance in addressing alleged transnational repression on a broader international scale.

In response to the diplomatic row between India and Canada, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry remarked that terrorists have found a safe haven in Canada. He criticized Trudeau’s habit of making “outrageous and unsubstantiated allegations” and cited a similar instance involving Sri Lanka.

News Summary:

• The United States expresses “deep concern” over Canadian allegations against India in the killing of Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
• US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller calls for continued probe and urges India’s cooperation in the Canadian investigation.
• India has vehemently denied any involvement, calling the allegations “absurd and motivated.”
• US Representative Jim Costa calls for an investigation into Nijjar’s killing, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasizes the importance of accountability and a thorough investigation.
• Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry criticizes Trudeau for making “outrageous and unsubstantiated allegations.”

Canada has informed India of its updated travel advisory, citing videos targeting Canadians on the internet. Meanwhile, all eyes are on External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s impending address to the UN General Assembly, where he is expected to respond to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations regarding Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in June.

Key Points:

• Canada updated its travel advisory to India, citing online videos targeting Canadians.
• India was informed well in advance of the advisory update, with assurances that it should not be overinterpreted.
• Jaishankar is set to address the UN General Assembly and is expected to respond to Trudeau’s allegations.
• Canada has yet to provide legal evidence linking India to Nijjar’s killing.
• The Sikh vote plays a significant role in Canadian politics, making the issue politically sensitive.
• Trudeau’s allegations were made in the Canadian Parliament, prompting expectations of a strong response from Jaishankar.
• Jaishankar will also discuss the credibility of evidence provided by the Five Eyes Alliance during his visit to Washington, D.C.
• India maintains it had no role in Nijjar’s killing and supports the legal process in Canada but demands credible evidence to address unsubstantiated charges.

The diplomatic tensions between India and Canada continue to simmer as both nations await further developments in the case of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar’s killing. Canada’s decision to update its travel advisory to India, citing online videos targeting Canadians, has added a new dimension to the ongoing dispute.

India was informed in advance of Canada’s travel advisory update, with assurances that it should not be misconstrued as a political move. However, the timing of the advisory coincides with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations against India regarding its involvement in Nijjar’s killing.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to address these allegations during his upcoming speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. The global community is keenly watching Jaishankar’s response to Trudeau’s claims, made in the Canadian Parliament, as he is expected to provide a robust counter-narrative.

Despite the allegations, Canada has yet to provide concrete legal evidence linking India to Nijjar’s killing. The issue has taken on political significance due to the influential Sikh vote in Canadian politics, making it a delicate matter for Trudeau’s administration.

Following his address at the UN, Jaishankar will embark on bilateral meetings in Washington, D.C., where he will discuss not only the bilateral relationship but also the credibility of the evidence provided by the Five Eyes Alliance to Canada regarding Nijjar’s killing.

India maintains its stance that the Modi government had no role in the political killing of Nijjar and supports the legal process in Canada. However, it demands credible, substantiated evidence to address the unsubstantiated charges made by Trudeau and his Foreign Minister.

As the diplomatic standoff continues, many are hoping for a resolution to the issue and a restoration of bilateral ties between India and Canada.

News Summary:

Canada has updated its travel advisory to India, citing online videos targeting Canadians. India was informed in advance about the advisory update, but it coincides with allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to address these allegations in his UN General Assembly speech. Canada has yet to provide legal evidence linking India to Nijjar’s killing. The issue is politically sensitive due to the influence of the Sikh vote in Canadian politics. India supports the legal process in Canada but demands credible evidence to address unsubstantiated charges.