<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1708775871954" alt="NCST report: TMC leader tortured tribals, took away MNREGA earnings in Sandeshkhali" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Allegations of land grab and coercive acts, including sexual assault, have surfaced against TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, with claims that they forcibly took MNREGA wages from poor tribal families and subjected them to torture for not supporting the party, as per the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).
According to complaints received by a three-member NCST team, led by Vice-Chairperson Ananta Nayak, the West Bengal Police purportedly "protected" Shahjahan and his accomplices. The panel, currently back in Delhi, is in the process of compiling a report to be submitted to the government.
Nayak revealed that over 50 complaints have been lodged alleging sexual harassment of tribal women and land grab by Shahjahan and his associates. The Sandeshkhali area, located in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district, has witnessed ongoing protests against Shahjahan and his supporters for more than a month.
Shahjahan's alleged modus operandi involved coercing poor tribal individuals to surrender their MNREGA earnings, and in cases where funds were unavailable, forcing them to borrow money and surrender it to him, Nayak disclosed, expressing astonishment at the unprecedented nature of these claims.
The complainants, predominantly Hindus, informed the probe team that Shahjahan and his associates resorted to torture against those who voted for opposing parties during elections.
The NCST team uncovered instances where local women were summoned for late-night meetings, and failure to comply with Shahjahan's demands resulted in torture inflicted upon their families.
Furthermore, victims who sought police intervention were reportedly met with reluctance from law enforcement, as authorities allegedly refrained from registering FIRs or complaints, instead urging them to "negotiate" with Shahjahan, thereby backing the accused.
Complainants also alleged that Shahjahan coerced tribal families into surrendering their land, threatening to inundate fields with saltwater if met with resistance.
Nayak highlighted that Shahjahan was accused of seizing land from over a thousand tribal and non-tribal individuals across a stretch exceeding 10 kilometres.
In response to the matter, on February 20, the commission issued notices to the chief secretary of West Bengal and the state's police chief, demanding factual and action taken reports within three days.

NCST report: TMC leader tortured tribals, took away their MNREGA earnings in Sandeshkhali

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The recent discussions at Azim Premji University have sparked controversy and raised serious questions about the boundaries of academic discourse and the ethical responsibilities of educational institutions.
The focus of this debate revolves around the notion of "Annihilate Hinduism," a topic that has ignited a fiery debate and stirred concerns about the role of universities in fostering divisive ideologies.
Azim Premji University, situated in Karnataka, is no stranger to controversy, being situated in a region known for its blend of Islamist and Left Liberal ideologies. However, the recent discourse on "Annihilate Hinduism" has taken the spotlight, shedding light on the delicate balance between academic freedom and responsible dialogue.
The emergence of discussions advocating the annihilation of Hinduism within academic spaces has prompted a broader conversation about the role of universities as platforms for constructive dialogue and intellectual diversity. While academic freedom is crucial for the exploration of controversial ideas, it must be exercised with sensitivity and respect for diverse beliefs and identities.
The concern over the potential indoctrination of youth through such discourse is particularly troubling, as educational institutions play a significant role in shaping the worldview and values of future generations. The propagation of extremist ideologies, disguised as academic inquiry, not only undermines the credibility of academic institutions but also threatens social cohesion and harmony.
A notable incident at Azim Premji University involving Rishi Tiwari highlights the dangers of ideological intolerance and Hinduphobia within academic circles. Tiwari's ordeal, which began with a minor altercation, escalated into targeted harassment and discrimination based on his Hindu identity and affiliation with Benares Hindu University.
The social media campaign against Tiwari, coupled with the lack of fair process and swift punitive actions by the university administration, underscores the toxic environment prevailing within certain academic institutions. The rush to judgment and the absence of nuanced discussions further exacerbate polarisation and hinder meaningful dialogue.
Moreover, the issue raises questions about double standards in addressing hate speech and incitement targeting different communities. It is imperative that all forms of hate speech and discrimination, regardless of the targeted group, be unequivocally condemned and addressed with appropriate measures to uphold principles of equality and justice.
As the debate continues, it remains essential for universities to uphold academic integrity, promote inclusive discourse, and ensure that academic freedom is exercised responsibly in line with ethical standards and societal harmony.

Controversy at Azim Premji University: The debate over 'Annihilate Hinduism' sparks national discussion

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BJP MP Khagen Murmu, who is also the party's Lok Sabha nominee for Bengal's North Malda constituency, sparked controversy following a photograph depicting him kissing a woman on the cheek during a campaign event.
The incident unfolded on Monday as the BJP contender canvassed in Srihipur village of Chanchal within his parliamentary jurisdiction. Images capturing Khagen Murmu's gesture circulated widely across social media platforms.
Trinamool Congress swiftly seized upon the opportunity to criticise the BJP, denouncing the act as evidence of the party's lack of respect for women.
The ruling party of Bengal also took to X to voice their disapproval, stating, "If you cannot believe what you just saw, let us clarify. Yes, this is BJP MP &amp; Maldaha Uttar candidate Khagen Murmu, kissing a woman on his own accord on his campaign trail. From MPs that sexually harass women wrestlers to leaders who make obscene songs about Bengali women, the BJP camp has no dearth of anti-women politicians. This is how Modi Ka Parivar engages in Nari Ka Samman! Imagine what they would do if they came to power.”
Dulal Sarkar, vice president of Trinamool Congress in Malda district, echoed these sentiments, condemning the incident as contrary to "Bengali culture." He pondered on the BJP's mindset post-election victory, questioning the propriety of such actions while "begging for votes."
" People will decide this," Dulal Sarkar added.
Khagen Murmu, on the other hand, defended his action, asserting that the woman is akin to "his own child."
"There is nothing wrong with kissing a child. This is a complete grassroots conspiracy. They have such bad values," the BJP candidate said.
He further announced intentions to file a complaint against Trinamool Congress concerning their remarks on the kissing episode. "Parties and individuals are being defamed by distorting such pictures," Khagen Murmu remarked.
Moreover, the woman involved in the incident also came forward to defend the BJP candidate's actions, chastising those who deemed the viral pictures inappropriate. She argued that there's no harm in a man kissing a woman as he would his daughter.
"If a man kisses a woman like his own daughter, what is the problem with that? People who are making such incidents viral on social media have a dirty mentality. Khagen Murmu loves me like a daughter. My father and mother were also present when the picture was taken," the woman said.

BJP candidate Khagen Murmu's campaign kiss stirs debate; TMC attacks, woman clarifies

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National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah expressed scepticism on Wednesday regarding promises to revoke the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting it might be a pre-election tactic akin to promises made and broken about including Ladakh in the 6th schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Abdullah's remarks came after reports in local media quoted Union Home Minister Amit Shah stating that the BJP-led Centre would consider revoking AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir in due course.
“I am waiting for this day since 2011. We made a lot of efforts to remove the AFSPA (when he was the chief minister) as well, but I fear that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will be misled and cheated like the people of Ladakh were misled and cheated on the promise of the Sixth Schedule as elections are here,” Abdullah told reporters in Budgam district.
The former Union minister urged for immediate action on revoking AFSPA, citing statements by central leaders about the improved situation and the restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.
“As far as revoking the AFSPA is concerned, start from today. When they say the situation is normal and militancy has ended and there is no separatist thought left, then what are they waiting for?” he asked.
Reports surfaced quoting Amit Shah saying that the Centre is considering the revocation of AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir as the situation is improving, and change is underway.
During an interview with the JK Media Group, Shah also mentioned plans to reduce troop presence in the Union Territory, entrusting law and order responsibilities primarily to the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
"We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir police was not trusted, but today they are leading the operations," Home Minister said.
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act grants extensive powers to armed forces in disturbed areas, including search, arrest, and use of force if deemed necessary for public order maintenance. While the act has been partially lifted in northeastern states, it remains in force in Jammu and Kashmir, eliciting calls for its revocation from various quarters.

Omar Abdullah questions AFSPA promise by Amit Shah amidst Lok Sabha polls

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The Madras High Court declined to issue a writ of ‘quo warranto’ in response to petitions filed by members of a Hindu nationalist group against DMK Ministers Udhayanidhi Stalin and PK Sekar Babu, along with Member of Parliament A Raja.
The ‘quo warranto’ petitions questioned the legitimacy of their official positions following comments allegedly disparaging Sanatana Dharma.
Justice Anita Sumanth disposed of the petitions brought forth by two Hindu Munnani functionaries and another individual, which raised concerns over the authority of the three DMK leaders to hold office after participating in what was described as an "anti-Sanatana Dharma meeting" and delivering speeches critical of religious practices.
While acknowledging Minister Udayanidhi Stalin's remarks equating Sanatana Dharma to diseases like HIV, AIDS, and Malaria as concerning and contrary to constitutional principles, the court ultimately dismissed the petitions.
The judge stated that individuals in positions of authority must exercise greater responsibility and verify historical facts before making public statements.
According to reports, Udhayanidhi Stalin clarified that his intention was not to belittle or disrespect any religion, but to oppose discriminatory religious practices. He underscored that Article 25 safeguards the right to practice and profess religion, including the freedom to profess atheism and hold non-belief in God.
Minister Sekar Babu refuted the plea, arguing that it was a response to his efforts to reclaim temple properties allegedly encroached upon by individuals associated with the Hindu Munnani. He asserted that the petition was driven by malicious intent. Additionally, he highlighted his involvement in a meeting advocating for the abolition of the caste system, elimination of untouchability, and promotion of social equality.
MP A Raja asserted that freedom of speech and expression supersedes freedom of religion. He contended that Article 19(1)(a) encompasses the dissemination of information and positive ideals, fostering constructive dialogue among citizens for societal progress.
On Monday, 4 March, the Supreme Court admonished Udhayanidhi Stalin for his "eradicate Sanatana Dharma" statement and questioned why he had approached the apex court with his plea after purportedly misusing his right to freedom of speech and expression.
“You abuse your right under Article 19(1)(a) (of the Constitution). You abuse your right under Article 25. Now, you are exercising your right under Article 32 (to file a plea in the Supreme Court)? Do you not know the consequences of what you said? You are not a layman, you are a minister. You should know the consequences,” the bench said, adjourning the matter to 15 March.
<ins>Background</ins>
On September 2, 2023, Tamil Nadu’s Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister PK Sekar Babu participated in a conference organised by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers’ Association in Chennai, focused on the "annihilation of Sanatana Dharma."
During the event, Udhayanidhi likened Sanatana Dharma to diseases like coronavirus, malaria, dengue, and mosquitoes, advocating for its eradication. This statement sparked controversy, particularly with the BJP expressing strong opposition.
DMK MP A Raja also entered the fray, describing Sanatana Dharma as a "social disgrace."
At a protest gathering against the Vishwakarma Yojana organised by the Dravidar Kazhagam in Chennai on September 6, Raja further compared Sanatana Dharma to HIV and leprosy.

NCST report: TMC leader tortured tribals, took away their MNREGA earnings in Sandeshkhali

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