Crisis deepens ::: Hamas confirms death of commander in Israeli strike on West Bank :::: Biden suggests Israel not hit Iran oil fields

David Khalfa, a Middle East expert at the Jean-Jaures Foundation, a Paris-based think-tank, said Israel has little choice but to respond to the Iranian attack "because of the scale and the fact that the nature of the targets has changed" to include sensitive military sites.

Hamas confirms death of commander in Israeli strike on West Bank

Hamas’s armed wing al-Qassam Brigades has confirmed the death of one of its commanders Zahi Yaser Abd al-Razeq Oufi in an Israeli strike on the West Bank city of Tulkarm along with seven other fighters, the group says in a statement.

The Israeli military said that it killed Oufi, head of the Hamas network in Tulkarm, in an attack on Thursday.

Rifle in his hand, Iran's Supreme Leader warns Israel 'will not last long'

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 85, was seen holding a Russian-made Dragunov rifle while addressing thousands of Iranians 

In a rare public address, Iran's powerful supreme leader defends missile attack on Israel and makes appeal for Muslim unity  

Khamenei, speaking predominantly in Arabic but also in Farsi, urged Muslims from “Afghanistan to Yemen, and from Iran to Gaza” to be ready to take action, and praised those who had died doing so.

It was the first time the 85-year-old had led Friday prayers since the US killed the Revolutionary Guards leader Qassem Suleimani in Baghdad in January 2020.

The Iranian leadership aimed to show, through the size of the crowd attending the Grand Mosque, that ordinary Iranians supported the decision to attack Israel over the killings of its two allies and the Revolutionary Guards brigadier general Abbas Nilforoushan.

Despite Khamenei’s appeal for Muslim unity, the speech made little effort to build unity with moderate Arab leaders. Instead, he praised the Hamas attack on 7 October last year in which 1,200 people were killed and that triggered the Gaza war, describing it as a “legitimate act”, and insisted the root of the region’s problems lay solely in foreign interference and the actions of Israel.

Blogger in Dec 1998: Somewhere in western sector 

Notably, Iran fired more than 180 missiles at Israel on Tuesday, hitting a number of Israeli bases and causing the region to brace for Israel’s imminent anticipated response against Tehran.  

Germany says an Israeli airstrike on the Palestinian city of Tulkarem in the West Bank, which killed at least 18 people, was “shocking.”

“The high number of civilian casualties in an Israeli airstrike in Tulkarem is shocking. In the fight against terror, the Israeli army is obliged to protect civilians in the West Bank,” the German foreign ministry says on X.

Israel is said to have targeted a Hamas commander planning an October 7 anniversary attack. Seven members of terror groups have been identified among the victims, which also included a brother and sister, aged 7 and 8.

US President Joe Biden says Israel has not yet decided how it’s going to respond to Iran’s ballistic missile strike.

“If I were in their shoes, I’d be thinking about other alternatives than striking oil fields,” Biden says during a rare appearance at the White House daily press briefing where one reporter after another asks leading questions goading him to criticize Israel.

Earlier this week, Biden said he opposed Israel targeting Iranian nuclear sites as well.

Asked whether he thinks Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting diplomatic agreements in Gaza and Lebanon to influence the upcoming presidential election, Biden responds, “No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None, none, none, and I think Bibi should remember that.

“As for whether he’s trying to influence the election or I don’t know, but I’m not counting on that,” Biden adds. Biden also says he assumes he will speak to Netanyahu when Israel decides on how it wants to respond to Iran.

The US military confirmed it had carried out strikes on 15 targets in areas of Yemen controlled by the Houthi rebels. 

Iran has "already thought things through, to some extent at least. They are ready," said Citrinowicz, suggesting that Tehran's response to any Israeli retaliation would be "swift".

Sima Shine, another Iran expert at the INSS, said that the Islamic republic possessed "undeniable" destructive capabilities.   "They can launch more than 200, or even 300 missiles, and they also have drones," she said, 

Ultimately, Citrinowicz said, both Iran and Israel "will look for a political solution" that may be supported by the United States and France, whose influence particularly in Lebanon could play a critical role in restoring calm. 

ends 

Assamese, Bengali (Bangla), Marathi, Pali and Prakrit to be recognized as Classical languages

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, increasing recognized classical languages to eleven.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the move and tweeted: 

“Our government cherishes and celebrates India’s rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages."

 I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Prakrit will be conferred the status of classical languages! Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone,” he posted on X.

This cabinet decision increases the number of recognised classical languages from six to eleven. 

Previously recognised languages included Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia, which was the last language to enter the club in 2014

Information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the “historic” move aimed to “preserve the rich cultural heritage of India.”

“Until now, the notified classical languages included Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia. These languages were already recognised as classical languages. The new proposals have been examined within this framework and any future proposals will also be assessed in the same manner, based on proper scientific evidence, research, and historical data,” he said.  

The Union government established the category of “classical languages” on October 12, 2004, initially declaring Tamil as a classical language based on three criteria: 

High antiquity of early texts with a recorded history over a thousand years, a body of ancient literature considered a valuable heritage by generations of speakers, and an original literary tradition that is not borrowed from another speech community.

In November 2004, the ministry of culture formed a linguistic experts committee (LEC) under the Sahitya Akademi to examine languages for this status. 

The criteria were revised in November 2005, resulting in the declaration of Sanskrit as a classical language, with updated standards that included “high antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years” and emphasis that “the literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community.”

In a meeting on July 25, 2024, LEC unanimously revised the criteria for classical languages. The NEW? (yes, new) criteria include high antiquity of (its) early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years, a body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a heritage by generations of speakers, the presence of “knowledge texts”, especially prose texts in addition to poetry, epigraphical and inscriptional evidence, and the stipulation that the classical languages and literature could be distinct from its current form or could be discontinuous with later forms of its offshoots.

The committee confirmed that Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali meet the revised criteria for classical language status.

The demand for granting classical language status to some of these languages dates back a decade. 

In 2013, the Maharashtra government submitted a proposal for Marathi’s recognition. Former Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan then established a committee of language experts in 2014 to assess the language. The panel confirmed that Marathi met all the criteria for recognition as a classical language, and its report reached the Centre.

The development came just days before assembly elections in Maharashtra are expected to be announced.

Calling Marathi “India’s pride,” Modi said,”This honour acknowledges the rich cultural contribution of Marathi in our nation’s history. Marathi has always been a cornerstone of Indian heritage. I am sure with the status of a Classical Language, many more people will be motivated to learn it.”

“Once a language is declared as a classical language, it garners significant international interest. Many international universities begin offering courses and research programs in those classical languages,” Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.

ends 

That United News of India, UNI, would run into financial crisis was reported in 1983 ::: "fear lurks in the minds of 700 employees" ... yet nothing was done

When I joined UNI at the fag end of circa 2016; things were already bad and it was well known in the market. But my 'survival' became difficult first with 'The Statesman' in 2014-15 - the credit goes to a 'huge donkey' and his ability to manipulate things. Nevertheless, then came a fine day when I was out ... there were a few others. 

Incidentally, the "donkeyness" had reached its peak and he too was shown the door a  few years later. 

So I was offered pea-nuts in UNI.  During those days, I remember Late Arun Jaitley stating at a seminar, "When you pay pea nuts, you get monkeys".

Prior to that I was with the IANS for a few months - precisely a few months and thanks to one 'Swamy ...." -- he made things extremely difficult. His problem was unique. He had inferiority complex even with a teenager and he would try to give a message that he was running the show all alone. He created problems for middle-aged sincere and professional fellows so that there would not be any threat to his position in the organisation.

And he too met the proverbial destiny and a few days later was 'out'. 

In UNI and I had a good boss Ms Naz Asghar.

But on financial matters, she could hardly do anything. The crisis in UNI was actually forthcoming. An old issue of 'Suraya India' magazine (Feb 1-15, 1983) issue had detailed reports about the agency standing "on the verge of a financial crisis".

 Whenever I joked with Ms Naz and gave her assurance about my professional commitment - "You can bank on me"; - she would retort "Niren, but UNI does not have much in its bank account".  

Now what did the 1983 report say ?

"The agency (UNI) which had a profit of Rs 7 crore in 1975 is now losing Rs 10 lakh a year since 1978 despite a three-fold increase in revenue".  It also spoke about other matters -- some of it were found existing in many other news organisations. 

"The prime reason for its present financial crisis is said to be wasteful expenditure....," the Surya magazine article said. It also reported:

"The Sports services is incurring heavy losses. UNI-Varta (Hindi) started in May 1982 with much fanfare, is reportedly losing more than Rs 15 lakh per month. Gulf News Service is another losing revenue - Rs 6 lakh per year".  

Please figures of losses in lakhs were of 1970s and 1980s when a lakh meant a huge amount. 

UNI's problems even during my stint was the Hindi service. The unnecessary competition the Hindi colleagues had for English unit spoiled the show even during my stint. The Hindi unit had reluctant workers and they would repeatedly show dislike for taking up assignments outside city.

I can name colleagues who despite repeated instructions declined to cover 2018 elections in Karnataka and other states such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.  

The 'Surya' magazine also had reported:

"The payment for subscription of UNI service by five-star hotels is also misused. The payment for this service is made partly in cash and partly on short credit vouchers which goes on accumulating. This credit facility with the five stars, it is alleged, is being misused in the name of entertainment, accommodation etc".  

The Provident Fund norm was misused even those days apparently. This vice later cropped up in other news organisations too. 

The 1983 article says:

"Provident Fund contributions particularly that of employer's have not been regularly deposited for the last three years".  

If a few Meiteis and Kukis can shake hands, there is optimism !! Now, centre should build on this and aggressively pursue a strategy to bring Reconciliation :: Also give a role to UNC

Circa 2016.... the BJP was not sure it will make it to power in Manipur. 

The Congress still banked on veteran Okram Ibobi Singh. He knew how to survive, he also knew how to 'emerge' as a protector of Meitei interests and also as someone who showed enough guts even to take on Congress Home Minister P Chidambaram.  

Ibobi ignited a tussle in Manipur amongst Meiteis and leaked out the information that Thuingaleng Muivah wanted to visit his native village in Manipur. Chidambaram and the Home Ministry wanted him to create a ground so that Muivah only makes a personal (unofficial) visit to his village - where he was born. But Ibobi did exactly the opposite. That was Ibobi. 

Assam Rifles repairing 'damaged water pipes' in 2023 clash 

In December 2016, he played his Surgical Strike of 'social engineering' and almost ensured that he would return to power.  

In what was touted as a major social engineering - vis-a-vis the sensitive socio-politics of Nagas and Kukis residing in Manipur, Ibobi Singh threw a major political challenge to the BJP, which was banking on its newly created support base in the hill districts.

The state cabinet presided over by Chief Minister in Imphal decided to form seven new districts making it a total of 16 districts in the state. 

The new districts are Tengnoupal (from Chandel), Kakching (from Thoubal), Pherjawl (from Churachandpur), Kamjong (from Ukhrul), Noney (from Tamenglong), Jiribam (from Imphal East), Kangpokpi (from  Senapati).  

Now even in 2024, this issue is in public debate. Of course, the Naga-Kuki (to be precise Tangkhul-Kuki relation) is hardly good. 

Instead in May 2023, Manipur entered a new phase of ethnic troubles - Kukis and Meiteis clash. 

There came religious overtone too and even places of worships were attacked. All these have created major administrative, social and political challenges to the BJP, to the governments both in Manipur and in centre. 

Worse, the credibility of the duo of PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah is also at stake. 

Hence the challenge is to bring Kukis and Meiteis to talking terms and if possible a tripartite meeting at the earliest to bring about reconciliation. 

But who does not know, this is easier said than done. 

The northeastern region has seen enough of such clashes and enough of so-called ethnic 'cleansing'. Biharis, Bengali Hindus and Gorkhalis have been at the receiving end in Shillong, and people have left for good.

Forget tribal-non tribal issues; episodes like the Reang-Mizo differences and Naga-Kuki issues of the 1990s were really unfortunate. 

Therefore, it is time sanity prevails and the 'sincerity' displayed by all becomes important achievements; and more so for the government(s) of the day, both in Imphal and in New Delhi. 

A video footage available in social media and internet shows Kuki youths and their Meitei counterparts were shaking hands and hugging each other. All individuals who have taken the initiative must be applauded. 

Video link

But what we need is more of such efforts and most importantly, the Modi government in the Centre should build on this gesture and aggressively pursue a strategy to bring both communities together.

 

But how will New Delhi do this ?

One harsh recommendation  as expected by many anti-Amit Shah (anti-BJP) camps would suggest imposition of President's Rule. But this is unlikely and perhaps more importantly this may not help bring amity between the two warring communities. 

So that brings us on the need to suggest more a pragmatic step. New Delhi mandarins and the political masters should henceforth try to involve Naga civil society organisations CSOs including the influential United Naga Councl (UNC).

So far, the Meitei-Kuki clashes since May 2023 saw Nagas keeping a safe distance and playing it safe and cool. That was pragmatism and a smart move. And it must be appreciated. 

Here one must add creditably for Nagas even after church destroyed and Hindutva spin were brought in, the Nagas did not drag themselves into the row and the bigger debate. Kukis must have thought the 'threat to Christians' angle will ensure them Naga support; but Nagas of Manipur have shown the much required maturity. 

And for the people - the faceless voters - they did their best and gave a mandate rejecting NDA and NPF candidate in Outer Maniput even as local issues too influenced the outcome.  

The fact of the matter is everyone is aware of the strong elements of 'us' and 'them' syndromes in the northeast region. Some years back while working on these inherent issues between two and more communities in another northeastern state (not Manipur), I was told by an expert that the 'logic of us and the ideology of others' motivates the root cause of identity politics in the northeast.  

In 2023, my article on Manipur crisis for news agency IANS ran ::: "In this season of rumour mongering and intense provocation, there are people among Nagas in Manipur and rights organisations who have understood the gravity of the situation and displayed maturity". 

Now, this is an advantage point like a Tennis match and the Home Ministry should make optimum use of good will gesture and maturity. 

ends 

  

"A husband has no “fundamental right” to violate his wife's consent (for physical love), but penalising Marital Rape will destroy families: Govt of India

In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, the government of India has asserted that while a husband has no “fundamental right” to violate the consent of his wife, invoking stringent penal provisions of rape in matrimonial relationships would be “excessively harsh”.

The introduction of any stringent law on Marital Rape will be “disproportionate”, besides having “far-reaching socio-legal implications” on the institution of marriage in India, it said. 

The Centre defended the marital rape exception in laws, arguing its removal could destabilize marriage, while emphasizing the need for legislative wisdom.

The centre also asked the apex court to respect the legislature’s wisdom in retaining the exception, arguing that Parliament has done so after understanding complex socio-economic and cultural aspects.

It also warned of the possible misuse of the law were the exception to be removed.

The affidavit, filed through the ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in response to petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Exception 2 to Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), underscored the complexity of applying rape laws within marriages.

The government asserted that while consent is foundational, breaches of this consent in marriage should be dealt with through less severe penalties than the“ghastly” provisions applied to cases involving strangers.

“The central government asserts that a woman’s consent is not obliterated by marriage, and its violation should result in penal consequences. 

However, the consequences of such violations within marriage differ from those outside it. Parliament has provided different remedies, including criminal law provisions, to protect consent within marriage. 

Sections 354, 354A, 354B, 498A IPC, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, ensure serious penal consequences for such violations,” it maintained. The provisions cited by the government relate to sexual assault or use of criminal force, as the affidavit maintained that these provisions represent the “sufficiently adequate remedy” and the “delicate balance” that Parliament has sought to maintain.

The affidavit conceded that both parties in a marriage have rights to privacy and dignity even as it added that invoking Section 375/376 of the IPC (rape charges) in matrimonial settings “would necessarily entail consequences” that do not reflect the nuanced reality of conjugal relationships. 

The affidavit maintained that Parliament has adequately balanced these rights by enacting alternative provisions because applying the harsh label of “rape” to marital settings could potentially destabilise the institution itself.

ends 

Congrats 'Haryana polls' !! Rahul Gandhi is back with his 'pappu' elements and talks about Jalebi factory employing 100 people !!!

 Not many parties can afford a leader like Rahul Gandhi. And not many people and leaders can show the innovative genius like Rahul Gandhi.  

The Congress party needs to be congratulated for giving India a 'Leader of the Opposition' who talks about a 'Jalebi factory'.  

During an election rally, Rahul Gandhi mentioned the idea of a jalebi factory, which quickly went viral. His comment, suggesting more people should be involved in making jalebis, sparked discussions and jokes on social media.

Jalebis need not be made in a factory or cannot be made because it is one of the 'fastest' perishable sweet item. It can be relished only when served hot. But India's Leader of the Opposition is so much detached from Indian reality that he ended up making some ridiculous comments. 

A tweet from DD News says:  "Jalebi has made an appearance in the Haryana elections. Rahul Gandhi visited Gohana in Sonipat amid the election fervor, where jalebis are very popular. He also ate the famous jalebi of Gohana and, praising it, said that this jalebi should be available worldwide".  

"This Jalebi (of a particular shop in Haryana) should be made available nationwide and later in different forms (alag alag roop mein) Jalebis should be made available in America and Japan. 

Of course BJP leader Anurag Thakur shared a 'story' of Rajiv Gandhi era vis-a-vis jalebi and how reportedly one the then civil servant I D Swami in 1985 had to face the wrath of Congress leadership's anguish.

 All these 'father-son' tales seem to be quite relevant today because only a month back 'Nehru-Gandhi family confidant' Sam Pitroda has said that Rahul Gandhi is more intellectual and strategist than his father, former PM Rajiv Gandhi.

"I had an opportunity to see many prime ministers from very close quarters but the difference between Rahul and Rajiv maybe is that Rahul is much more intellectual, thinker, Rajiv was a little more doer. They have the same DNA, they have the same concerns and feelings for the people, they genuinely believe in building a better India for everybody, the Congress leader told a leading agency from Chicago.

Of course, only Sam Pitroda can make such a statement which has been stated a 'bizarre comparison' 

 

 

Naga group's protest has multiple ramifications :::: Congress legacy of Manipur : 7 new districts formed in 2016 amid opposition by Nagas

 The United Naga Council (UNC) has reaffirmed its opposition to the arbitrary creation of seven new districts in Manipur, demanding the immediate rollback of the decision made on December 8, 2016. This was during the Congress regime when Oikram Ibobi Singh could not be wrong.  

He was the 'protector' of Meitei interests and was already in power for almost 15 years. But he was ousted in 2017 polls. 

The BJP stormed back to power in 2022 as well. But in circa 2024, the issue is back in the debate. 

The apex Naga body in Manipur, the UNC, said the new districts were formed by bifurcating existing parent districts during the Congress regime, without consultation with key stakeholders, including the Naga people. 

This move, according to the UNC, violates four standing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the government of Manipur and the Naga community, as well as assurances made by the Government of India in 2011. 

The UNC further stated that the creation of the districts was not only undemocratic but also divisive, sparking widespread protests, hartals, and a 139-day-long economic blockade on national highways. 

It may be pointed out that the newly-created districts are Tengnoupal, bifurcated from Channel district, Kampong from Ukhrul, Pherzawl from Churachandpur, Kangpokpi from Senapati and Jiribam from Imphal East districts. 

Even in 2016, the United Naga Council (UNC) had protested the creation of two districts, Sadar and Jiribam, alleging that the new districts would encroach the ancestral land of the Nagas.  

It is claimed that despite ten rounds of Tripartite Talks between the Government of Manipur, the UNC, and the Government of India, the last of which took place on March 9, 2019, no resolution has been reached. 

The UNC has criticized the lack of follow-up on the commitment by the government of Manipur to bring forward concrete proposals in subsequent talks.

The UNC in a press statement has now announced a 48-hour total bandh in all Naga areas, commencing at midnight on October 3, 2024. 

In a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the UNC said the key BJP leader id now thus "expected to create a vital space and congenial atmosphere to rectify the errors".  

However, all these activism,  power politics and agitation from pressure groups are also often trapped as 'wheels' within wheels.  

And in all these comes also the significance of Lok Sabha elections 2024. The entire electoral showdown was not in the name of Narendra Modi or voting for the NDA.  

The NPF  candidate apparently had the backing of  'social leaders' and also the crucial so-called backing of other influential stake holders. However, Kachui Timothy Zimik of NPF was defeated by the Congress nominee Alfred Kan-Ngam Arthur.  

These bring us to the debate whether some individuals or 'groups' have lost the support base. This is not unusual as faceless common people can always make use of the democratic measure that is the EVM (ballot papers) to turn the table.  

New Delhi seems to be well seized of the issues involved. There will be a good reason to consider the element of 'diversion' attempt by stake holders and vested interests. 

The North Block in New Delhi is under scrutiny when it comes to these sensitive and also emotive issues. 

All eyes would be now again on how the Govt of India conducts its much expected meeting(s) with NSCN-IM leaders next week. 

ends 

West planned for months to repel long-range Iranian attack – but Israel did not need them (The Guardian analysis)

"Because the Iranian attack on Tuesday comprised 181 high speed ballistic missiles, there was no role for US or UK jets. They had been on standby in the eastern Mediterranean to shoot down slower moving Shahed drones – as they had done during Iran’s previous attack in April, when a mixture of weapons were used," writes Dan Sabbagh for 'The Guardian', London  

The US, which reported it was moving three additional air squadrons into the region on Monday, said its fighter jets had not targeted any Iranian missiles, though Pentagon officials were coy whether any had been used in aerial reconnaissance.

John Healey, the UK defence secretary, said two RAF Typhoons took off from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus on Tuesday, but while they were “ready to engage” he acknowledged there was nothing for them to attack. “The nature of the attack was different,” the minister said.

The piece says - "Quiet planning by the US, UK and other allies to help Israel repel an Iranian long-range attack have been going on for several months or more – but most of the defensive effort appears to have been undertaken by Israeli air defence systems.

The only reported military engagements in support of Israel were a dozen interceptors fired by two US warships in the Eastern Mediterranean, while Jordan said its own air defence systems and air force were involved in targeting Iranian missiles."  

Both countries (US and UK) maintain a standing air presence in and around the Middle East – and strengthened it in August, when it was feared Iran would respond militarily to the assassination of Hamas’ political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran. The US sent the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group of warships and fighter jets.

Overt US military intervention was limited to the USS Bulkeley and USS Cole firing off a dozen interceptors, though it was not immediately clear if they were successful, the Pentagon said. Nor would the US confirm which missiles had been deployed, though SM-3 ballistic interceptors have been costed at $10m (£7.5) to $28m each.

Interceptor missiles are more expensive than the missiles they seek to destroy, and in April US navy secretary, Carlos Del Toro, told the US senate that his force had spent $1bn on munitions, used to defend Israel in April and on attacking the Houthi rebels in Yemen who had been targeting commercial shipping.

The cost of the interceptors is a key reason why fighter jets are used to target drones, ideally shooting them down with simple gunfire. But Iran’s goal, as well as to cause damage to Israeli airfields and other targets, was to inflict financial costs on the country and its western backers for helping it.

Given the US was warning of an impending attack around two and a half hours in advance, it is likely that this was derived from satellite or signals intelligence or both, which may have come from American, British, Israeli or other international monitoring – and most likely a combination of all to produce a coordinated picture.

Jordan, a western ally and recipient of over $1bn a year in US military aid, was involved again, as it had been in April, though the success of its efforts was also unclear. The country’s public security directorate said on Tuesday the air force and air defence systems “responded to a number of missiles and drones that entered Jordanian airspace,” though its report of drones appears inaccurate.

Where US and other western support to Israel may have been more significant is in the area of intelligence. Although Iran said it passed on a warning about its attack via the Swiss embassy in Tehran, the foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said officials only did so, after missiles with 12-minute journey times had been launched.

This is how HISTORY is remade !!! Article 370 removal helps Hindu refugees from Pakistan create history in J&K

Jammu & Kashmir :::: Article 370 removal helps Hindu refugees from Pak create history in J&K

A 45-year-old voter, enabled to vote for the first time, answers the question of what did removal of Article 370 achieve. On a red-letter day, Hindu refugees from Pakistan cast their votes in the Jammu and Kashmir election for the first time, reports 'India Today'. 

"A caged bird has been set free," said a voter in the Jammu and Kashmir elections to the Daily Excelsior. That was the sentiment that echoed with many others. It was also an answer to the question -- what has abrogation of Article 370 done. 

For the first time, Hindu refugees from Pakistan, including West Pakistan Refugees (WPR), Valmikis and Gorkhas cast their votes in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election on Tuesday.

There are around 1.5 lakh people from these communities in J&K, and Tuesday was a day filled with emotions.

"Our community has had no voting rights for the last 70 years. The Valmiki community was kept away from the voting process," the Hindu refugee from Pakistan, who was voting for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir, told the Daily Excelsior, a J&K-based newspaper.

Refugee leader Labha Ram Gandhi told news agency PTI that he and his community were grateful to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Home Minister Amit Shah for revoking Article 370, which enabled them to become citizens and voters of Jammu and Kashmir

The eligibility to vote was one among the list of rights that the abrogation of Article 370 provided. Among the other rights is the right to own land.

SHARE SWEETS, GATHER AND CELEBRATE VOTING RIGHTS

Ahead of the voting day, West Pakistan refugees celebrated by sharing sweets in Chakra and Chabay Chak in Samba and Jammu districts.

"I am very happy... I am 50 but I am casting vote for the first time. Things are changing now," a voter told the Daily Excelsior.

The West Pakistan Refugees, Valmikis and Gorkha communities who have lived as "unwanted citizens" for over seven decades now are able to vote. They have always lacked political representation.

They comprise 1.5 lakh people and live in the areas of Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts, especially around the border areas.

BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA FOR MANY IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The members of the three communities: the WPRs, the Valmikis and the Gorkhas will now elect MLAs. It is the beginning of a new era, people said.

"After residing in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 75 years as unwanted citizens, we are finally participating in the Assembly elections for the first time in history. It is a dream come true for us," said Labha Ram Gandhi, president of the West Pakistan Refugees Action Committee. 

"We still can't believe that we are now citizens and voters of J&K. It is a red-letter day for us," Gandhi added.

The 63-year-old refugee leader who voted at Nundpur polling station in Samba.

"Credit goes to the prime minister and home minister for revoking Article 370, which enabled us to become citizens and voters of Jammu and Kashmir. We are grateful to them," he added.

WEST PAKISTAN REFUGEES VOTING FOR THE FIRST TIME

Around 5,764 families of West Pakistan Refugees, called WPRs, settled in various parts of Jammu in 1947.

Now, the number of West Pakistan refugees has increased to over 22,000 families, taking the total of two lakh people.

After the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, the Hindu refugees have gained citizenship in J&K. They will also be able to vote, work, get an education and own land now on. In July 2024, the Jammu and Kashmir administration decided to give proprietary rights to state land allocated to WPR after 1947.

The West Pakistan refugees have also planned to commemorate this momentous occasion in RS Puara.

'ELECTIONS ARE A HISTORICAL MOMENT FOR US,' SAY VALMIKIS

In 1957, the Valmikis (Dalits) were brought to J&K in 1957 from Punjab's Gurdaspur district for sanitation work by the state government. They, too, voted for the first time. Around 12,000 members living in the Gandhi Nagar and Dogra Hall areas had been denied any voting rights, educational opportunities, job opportunities and land ownership due to the absence of a state subject certificate.

All thanks to abrogation of Article 370.

Now, they hope to ask for better amenities such as housing, education and employment opportunities.

"Now that we are citizens of J&K, we have voting rights and all other privileges enjoyed by the state's regular citizens. Tuesday's assembly elections mark a historic moment for us. We are delighted on this occasion," said Gaurav Bhati, president of the Valmiki Samaj.

"Our community members will also start contesting elections now. We can now explore new job opportunities. This was long overdue," he said.

'GRANTED ALL RIGHTS' NOW, SAY GORKHA COMMUNITY

This is an equally exciting opportunity for the Gorkha community. Their ancestors came from Nepal to Jammu and Kashmir decades ago to serve in the Dogra army. Most families at least have at least one war veteran today.

"We express our gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji and Home Minister Amit Shah ji for transforming our fortunes here. Thanks to their bold decision to revoke Article 370, we are now citizens of J&K and have been granted all rights," said Karuna Chhetri, president of All J&K Gorkha Sabha. 

"We will vote in the assembly elections for the first time. It's a proud moment for us. We are delighted," he added. 

More than 2,000 Gorkha community members live here, where lanes are narrow and houses are next to each other.

India will be among the three 'global superpowers' by 2050, says former British PM Blair :::: But will Sickularism gang and sections of western and Christian media be pleased ??

"It is a very dangerous situation with every potential of escalation, because of what is now happening to the north of Israel," Tony Blair said.

A section of Sickularism gang, self styled Left Liberal gang and a section of anti-Hindu and westerm and Christian media may not be too pleased.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair predicted that by 2050, there will be a new world order, dominated by three superpowers: the United States, China, and India.

Modi and Blair in 2019 

He also predicts that India, the United States, and China will emerge as the dominant superpowers by 2050, creating a "complex world order" that global leaders must be prepared to navigate.  

“By the middle of this century, three superpowers effectively: America, China, and probably India,"Blair said in an interview with 'The Straits Times' newspaper.

The 71-year-old said, "You have got to decide where your country fits in the world, because it is going to be a world that is going to be multipolar".

Blair, who served as British Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, noted that the current global landscape is vastly more complex than it was during his time in office, when the US was the dominant superpower. 

The rise of China and India, he explained, is 'reshaping geopolitics' and demands a reevaluation of alliances and diplomatic strategies.

"You are going to have to build strong alliances that enable you to talk to these three superpowers with some level of equality," he said. Blair also addressed the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, and the growing risk of a wider conflict.

The former UK Prime Minister also reiterated his support for a two-state solution as the only viable path to peace between Israel and Palestine. "The core to any solution, in my view, is to construct a day-after plan for Gaza that neither has the Israel Defence Forces nor Hamas running Gaza," he added.

Blair further said that he believes China could play a key role in peace negotiations but urged Beijing to restrain its ally, Iran.

He also suggested that Iran was involved in the planning of Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, stating the assault had been "a long time in the making."

Importance or 'over importance' of Haryana politics yet again :::: Will outcome of assembly polls make or mar Rahul's future polity ?

 As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has higher stakes. The outcome in Jammu and Kashmir polls will have a mandate on what his government did on Aug 5th, 2019 and stated later including the renewed assertion on Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Elections are also due in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. 

But for Rahul Gandhi, the results of Haryana battle would have serious impact. In 2024 Lok Sabha, he did well to almost double the Congress tally from 53 to 99. This was his major win especially in the context of Lok Sabha polls and direct confrontation with Narendra Modi. 

Otherwise from 2014, Rahul has been at the receiving end and whenever Modi or BJP suffered electorally in some states - the loss was to regional satraps like Bihar's Nitish Kumar in 2015 and Mamata Banerjee in 2021 in West Bengal.  But honeymoon period of  June 4 (results of general elections) is practically over. 

However, it goes without stating that Rahul is unable to come out of the pre-Lok Sabha election mode and continues to attack Modi and even business tycoon Gautam Adani. 

But will that help him in the long run?

Therefore, election in Haryana and its outcome has become very crucial. Even for Jammu and Kashmir, Rahul is unable to work out seriously with a determined electoral strategy. Apparently, his ally National Conference leader Omar Abdullah is also unhappy to an extent that Rahul has focused his campaign chiefly in Kashmir valley where NC is strong enough.

The National Conference and even the analysts expected Rahul Gandhi to focus more in the Jammur region where Congress is in a position to give a stiff fight to the BJP.  Nevertheless, Rahul or Congress party do not have much to gain or loss in J&K.  

Here the players are NC, Mufti Sayeed's PDP and BJP and other smaller parties. The Congress is largely seen as an ally of National Conference only. But when it comes to Haryana, the main contest is between Congress and the BJP. 

Even in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, the Congress is not the chief opponent to the BJP. Thus, there is always an added importance this year to Haryan elections and the politics around farmers, Jats, non-Jats, Dalits and wrestlers. 

But when it comes to Haryana politics, Kumari Selja factor is slowly bothering the grand old party. She skipped away from the release of the party manifesto show. 

And  later on being asked about 'missing' the manifesto launch, the Congress MP Kumari Selja said: "I was having some other work". Of course, she is not happy. 

Congress sources in Haryana say several of her people have been denied tickets. One of them is Ishwar Singh in Narwana. 

In broad sense, there are two-camps within the Congress - one the Bhupinder Singh Hooda camp and the other Randeep Singh Surjewala and Kumari Selja camp. But as the proverbial wheels within wheels; there are camps within camps. 

One got the glimpse of a clear division in the so-called perceived Surjewala-Kumari Selja camp in Narwana belt. Here this camp itself is vertically split between Surjewala camp and Kumari Selja camp. Surjewala's supporters are working overtime raising slogans repeatedly stating that Surjewala should be and will be made Congress chief minister.  

But the fact of the matter is as of now Hooda is the face of Congress and Rahul Gandhi has also given 'free hand' to Hooda even for selection of candidates.  

Hence if the Congress fails to make it a convincing win in Haryana, the Rahul balloon will be pricked yet again. 

Masterstroke by Israel: Indian Army chief on Lebanon pager blast operation

"The war does not start the day you start fighting, it starts the day you start planning," Army chief General Dwivedi said.

 Masterstroke by Israel: Indian Army chief on Lebanon pager blast operation

Last month, multiple explosions of pagers and walkie-talkies of Hezbollah members in Lebanon killed nearly 40 and left over 3,000 injured.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said the move by Israel to set up a shell company that manufactured the "explosive pagers" sent to Lebanon in order to derail the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group was a "masterstroke". Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogues, the Army Chief said the move required years and years of preparation by Israel.

"The war does not start the day you start fighting, it starts the day you start planning," General Dwivedi said.  

Israel has now shifted its military focus from the Gaza Strip to its northern border with Lebanon, where it has targeted Hezbollah and bumped off its chief Hassan Nasrallah and several top commanders.  

"Israel has done something different. Israel had decided that Hamas was their primary target. So, Israel first wiped out Hamas and then focused on the other side (Hezbollah). The shell company that was created for the pagers was something of a masterstroke by Israel," he said.

Last month, multiple explosions of pagers and walkie-talkies of Hezbollah members in Lebanon killed nearly 40 and left over 3,000 injured. Three Israeli intelligence officers told the New York Times that the company that manufactured the pagers was a shell firm set up by Mossad to rig the devices at the source before shipping them to Lebanon.

Experts called the move a "supply chain attack", which involves infiltrating a supplier and placing a small amount of explosives inside devices.

Asserting the need for various levels of inspection at the technological level, General Dwivedi said India needed to be "watchful" of supply chain interruptions.

"Supply chain interruption, interception is something we have to be very watchful of. We need to have various levels of inspection at the technological level as well as the manual level to make sure such things do not get repeated in our case," the Army chief said.