In a surprising turn of events, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Banwarilal Purohit has tendered his resignation from his official duties, citing “personal reasons.” The resignation comes on the heels of a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi.
In his resignation letter, Purohit stated, “Due to my personal reasons and certain other commitments, I tender my resignation from the post of governor of Punjab and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh. Please accept the same and oblige.”
The timing of Purohit’s resignation, just a day after the BJP’s triumphant victory in the Chandigarh mayoral polls, securing all three posts, raises questions. The Congress-AAP alliance, dealt a blow by the BJP’s success, has alleged ballot paper tampering despite the election results.
In a recent development, a division bench of the Punjab and Haryana High Court denied interim relief to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which had sought fresh polls under the supervision of a retired judge of the court. The Supreme Court, on Friday, has agreed to consider an urgent hearing of an AAP councillor’s plea challenging the high court order.
Purohit’s resignation adds a new layer to the political dynamics, especially given his past disagreements with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over various issues. The circumstances surrounding his departure are likely to be closely scrutinized in the days to come.
In a remarkable display of faith and unity, Tongi becomes the epicenter as Bangladesh witnesses its largest Jummah congregation during the Bishwa Ijtema.
Maulana Zubair Ahmad, a revered religious leader, delivered a powerful Jummah sermon at precisely 1:36 pm, leading the expansive congregational prayer at 1:46 pm.
Beyond the local devotees who flocked to Tongi, Muslims from across Gazipur and nearby regions gathered at the Ijtema venue to partake in the sacred Friday prayers.
As noon approached, the 160-acre Ijtema ground in Tongi overflowed, and the surrounding areas, including the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway, Kamarpara Road, and both sides of the Turag River, transformed into a sea of worshipers.
The scene exuded unity and devotion, with attendees utilizing prayer rugs, newspapers, and jute bags to secure a space for their prayers. The Dhaka-Mymensingh highway witnessed a temporary suspension of traffic due to the overwhelming turnout.
International participation added to the grandeur, with over 2,000 individuals from 47 different countries joining their Bangladeshi counterparts for the monumental Jummah prayers.
Around the Ijtema Maidan in Tongi, the ambiance was vibrant as women prepared for the prayer in designated areas.
The post-Jummah sermons featured Maulana Khatib of Jordan, Hafez Maulana Zubair of Bangladesh after Asr, and India’s Maulana Ahmad Lat after Maghrib, promising a diverse and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees. Tongi proudly hosts the largest Jummah congregation in Bangladesh during this grand Bishwa Ijtema.
“No Justice for Any Religion: Questioning the Purpose of Studying Law”
New Delhi: The hearing of the GyanVapi case took place on Friday (February 2) in the Allahabad High Court. The next hearing for this case is scheduled for February 6. Until then, the court has not imposed any restrictions on worship and has instructed to provide adequate security.
During a joint meeting of the All India Ulema Council on the matter, President Maulana Arshad Madani expressed his reaction, stating that they had raised objections even in 1991 about why the Babri Masjid was being removed under this law. Where there is Babri Masjid, there is no Ram Janmabhoomi. The verdict on the Babri Masjid has shown that it can happen with any mosque, so let’s burn the books of law. If this trend continues, no religion will receive justice. Why do you even study the law?
He further remarked that several mosques are entangled in issues after the Babri Masjid incident. The rapid emergence of these issues has created tension and sluggishness in the courts, and those seizing worship places are succeeding. He stated that if Muslims think that they only have to save mosques and minarets, nothing else will be left. He said the court made a hasty decision, not giving the other party a chance for debate. Trust in institutions providing justice has been shaken. The verdict on the Babri Masjid says that the temple was brought down, not a mosque was built. The court’s job is not to decide based on beliefs, justice is based on evidence. Efforts are being made to create mutual distances.
Maulana Madani emphasized that the law of 1991 is crucial. With the help of this law, we can stop confrontations. If this law is not implemented honestly, the country will experience turmoil. There should be a single standard for justice. If people lose trust because of this, it is not good for the country. We will also go to the Supreme Court on this matter. We will state our position in court and present the truth to everyone.
Adilabad :- Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy asserted on Friday that attempts to overthrow the Congress government in the state would face severe consequences. Addressing a public meeting in Indravelly, Adilabad district, Reddy dispelled rumors of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K. Chandrasekhar Rao becoming the chief minister in three months. Launching the Congress campaign for the Lok Sabha elections, he urged people to consider who would safeguard and progress Telangana.
This marked Reddy’s first public meeting since the Congress party assumed power in the state two months ago. Accusing BRS of secret dealings with the BJP, he warned that a victory for BRS would result in KCR’s subservience to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Reddy questioned the rationale behind voting for PM Modi and cautioned against BJP leaders who manipulate sentiments in the name of religion.
Highlighting the Congress government’s efforts in the state’s reconstruction, Reddy announced upcoming visits by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi to launch the Rs 500 gas cylinder scheme. He assured the filling of 15,000 police constable posts in 15 days and pledged to address two lakh vacancies within a year. Adopting Adilabad district for development, Reddy visited Nagoba Temple, inaugurated various projects, and honored Indravelly martyrs.
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka emphasized the need for change in Telangana, alleging a decade of captivity under a few individuals. The public meeting saw participation from Ministers and Congress leaders, marking the initiation of the Congress campaign in the state.
“If the law of stick and buffalo prevails in the country, then not only does the stick change hands, but the buffalo as well.” – Warning by Maulana Mahmood Madani.
As tensions escalate over the GyanVapi Masjid verdict, Muslim leaders express nationwide concerns about the broader trend of unwarranted claims on places of worship. Urging swift action to address rising religious tensions, leaders call for attention to the Place of Worship Act 1991 and emphasize the need to safeguard the secular fabric of the nation.
New Delhi :- In a press statement issued today, prominent Muslim leaders voiced their profound regret and concern regarding the recent developments surrounding the GyanVapi Masjid in Varanasi. The leaders, representing various Muslim organizations, expressed dismay over the abrupt initiation of a puja in the mosque’s cellar, marked by the overnight breaking of iron grills and idols.
The statement highlighted the swift action taken despite the court granting a seven-day window for the administration to make necessary arrangements, raising questions about possible collusion between the administration and the plaintiff. This move seemingly aims to preempt any effort by the Mosque Managing Committee to challenge the District Court’s order.
The leaders expressed surprise and disappointment at the judgment rendered by the Varanasi District Judge, emphasizing what they perceive as a highly incorrect and unfounded argument. The decision revolves around the assertion that the family of Somnath Vyas worshipped in the GyanVapi Masjid’s basement until 1993, a claim contested by the leaders. They find the timing of the judgment, coinciding with the judge’s last day of service, and the unilateral disclosure of an archaeological survey report by the Hindu side to the press as highly questionable.
The Muslim leaders asserted that no pooja was ever conducted in the basement and criticized the district court for not affording the mosque party an opportunity to appeal, which they believe is their legal right. They also raised concerns about unwarranted claims on various places of worship across the country, urging attention to the Place of Worship Act 1991 by the Supreme Court.
Drawing attention to recent comments by Hon’ble Supreme Court Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave, the leaders expressed deep concern about the judiciary potentially becoming a “majoritarian judiciary.” They called for safeguarding minority communities and marginalized sections, emphasizing the need for justice to be unbiased.
In response to the situation, the leaders announced their intention to communicate these concerns to the President of India and the Chief Justice of India. They hope that these constitutional officials can address the perceived compromise in the dignity of the country, impartiality of the judicial system, and administrative affairs.
Signatories:
Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, President, All India Muslim Personal Law Board
Hyderabad :- In a dazzling display of opulence, the Asia Jewels Show, renowned as one of the Nation’s Most Luxurious Jewellery Exhibitions, revealed its dates in a grand event held at Hotel Taj Krishna, Banjara Hills. The prestigious showcase is scheduled for the 23rd, 24th, and 25th of February 2024.
Actress Varshini Sounderajan, Actress Priyanka Chowdhari, and Actress Jenny graced the occasion, adding a touch of glamour to the high-profile event. The Date Announcement Event witnessed the presence of numerous jewellery enthusiasts, showcasing scintillating pieces that are set to captivate visitors at the upcoming Asia Jewels Show.
Hyderabad : – In a significant move, BRS chief KCR has instructed all party MLAs to engage with the Chief Minister in public forums to address developmental concerns and ensure transparency in governance.
KCR, recently back in action after recovering from hip replacement surgery, conveyed his message during a party gathering aimed at gearing up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Despite setbacks in the Assembly elections, KCR expressed confidence in the party’s potential to secure 8 to 10 Lok Sabha seats, citing a favorable political climate.
In his address, KCR emphasized the need for BRS to play a responsible opposition role and cautioned against being swayed by the promises of other political entities, particularly the Congress. Referring to a recent meeting between party MLAs and Revanth Reddy, KCR clarified that while MLAs have the right to meet the Chief Minister or Ministers for developmental issues, such interactions should take place in public to avoid any misinterpretation.
KCR further outlined his plan for bi-weekly meetings with party leaders and assured a consultative approach in finalizing Lok Sabha candidates. Notable attendees at the gathering included working president KT Rama Rao, T Harish Rao, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Srinivas Yadav, Prashant Reddy, Malla Reddy, Jagadish Reddy, KP Vivekananda, Danam Nagender, and others.
Highlighting BRS’s pivotal role in the establishment and progress of Telangana, KCR asserted that the party had set a national example. He credited BRS with translating the aspirations of the people into reality over the past decade and stressed that the party alone could safeguard the interests of Telangana.
Aam Aadmi Party ko harane ke liye Modi Ji Ko Dusra Janam Lena hoga : Kejriwal
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has reportedly skipped the fifth summons from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding the ongoing investigation into irregularities in the Delhi excise policy for the year 2021-22. In response to the latest summon, Kejriwal shared a bold video statement in English and Hindi, declaring the probe as “illegal and politically motivated.”
In the video, Kejriwal stated, “कहता हूँ मोदी जी, मुझे जेल में भी डाल दोगे तो Jail से भी आम आदमी पार्टी जीत जाएगी. मोदी जी, इस जन्म में तो आप दिल्ली में AAP को नहीं हरा सकते, AAP को हराने के लिए आपको दूसरा जन्म लेना पड़ेगा.
“Arvind Kejriwal posted this video on November 17th.”
Kejriwal had previously skipped summons on November 2, December 22, and January 3 and January 18, consistently labeling the investigation as “illegal and politically motivated.”
The ED has now issued a fresh, and the fifth, summons, requiring Kejriwal’s appearance this week, citing its money laundering probe linked to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22.
In response to the earlier summons, Kejriwal expressed readiness to cooperate but alleged that the agency’s intention was to arrest him and prevent him from campaigning for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The ED has specified its interest in questioning Kejriwal regarding the formulation of the excise policy, pre-finalization meetings, and allegations of bribery.
The agency recently filed its sixth charge sheet on December 2, 2023, implicating AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and his aide Sarvesh Mishra. The charge sheet claims that AAP utilized kickbacks amounting to ₹45 crore, generated through the excise policy, for its assembly elections campaign in Goa in 2022.
This revelation, indicating AAP as a direct beneficiary, is expected to be incorporated in the next charge sheet against the party. The ED alleges total bribes of ₹100 crore were paid to AAP leaders in connection with the excise policy.
ED has previously stated that the bribes generated were used to fund the poll campaign. This is the first time the agency has mentioned the specific amount of purported kickbacks.
The ongoing investigation implicates Kejriwal as the brainchild behind the excise policy. He has been mentioned in remand papers in connection with alleged meetings, commissions for private players, and the entry of political players and businesspeople from the south into Delhi’s liquor business.
So far, the financial crimes probe agency has filed six charge sheets in this investigation against 31 individuals and entities, including former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Singh, both of whom are currently lodged in Tihar jail.
The excise policy, initially aimed at revitalizing the city’s liquor business, promised swankier stores, a better buying experience, and introduced discounts and offers on liquor purchases for the first time in Delhi. However, it was later scrapped following a probe into alleged irregularities initiated by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.
The AAP accused Saxena’s predecessor, Anil Baijal, of sabotaging the move with last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues.
मोदी जी को कहना चाहता हूँ –
मुझे जेल में भी डाल दोगे तो Jail से भी आम आदमी पार्टी जीत जाएगी
मोदी जी, इस जन्म में तो आप दिल्ली में AAP को नहीं हरा सकते, AAP को हराने के लिए आपको दूसरा जन्म लेना पड़ेगा
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir – A Magical Sight Unfolds as Snow Blankets the City
After enduring a prolonged dry spell, the residents of Srinagar were greeted with a picturesque scene on Thursday as the season’s first snowfall draped the city in a shimmering white coat. Beyond being a mere meteorological event, the snowfall became a poignant reminder for the people of Srinagar of the inherent beauty embedded in the changing of seasons. Laughter of children echoed through narrow alleys as they embraced the newfound playground bestowed upon them by nature.
Not confined to the city alone, all district headquarters of the Valley experienced the season’s inaugural snowfall, with higher reaches witnessing a moderate snowfall, according to reports.
The conclusion of the 40-day-long period of intense winter cold, locally known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ on January 29 left the plains without their signature winter charm, leaving locals yearning for the distinctive beauty brought by snowfall.
While winter and snowfall pose challenges for the people of the Valley, they serve as a boon for tourism. Popular health resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam draw tourists in large numbers with the allure of snow-covered landscapes.
In a breathtaking display of the winter spectacle, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of a train passing through the snow-clad scenery of Kashmir, writing, “कश्मीर की वादियों में स्नोफॉल!” – a testament to the captivating beauty of Kashmir’s snowfall.
Ahmad Mukhtar, local Meteorological office, forecasted mostly dry weather with the possibility of very light snow at isolated higher reaches. He mentioned a likelihood of light to moderate rain/snowfall at various places in Jammu & Kashmir on Saturday.
However, the J&K Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a low danger level avalanche warning at 2800 and 3500 meters above sea level in the higher reaches of Doda district in Jammu and Ganderbal in Kashmir. A medium danger level avalanche is anticipated above 2400 meters over Poonch in Jammu and Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara districts of Kashmir. Residents in these areas are advised to take precautions and avoid venturing into avalanche-prone areas until further notice.
Commercial LPG Gas Affected; Domestic Cylinder Rates Unchanged
New Delhi :- In a prelude to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s interim budget announcement, the cost of 19-kilogram commercial Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders has witnessed a substantial hike of Rs 14. This modification took effect today, Thursday, February 01.
Following the adjustment, the retail sales price of a 19 Kg commercial LPG cylinder in Delhi has risen to Rs 1,769.50. It’s imperative to clarify that this price surge exclusively impacts commercial cylinders, leaving domestic LPG cylinder prices unaffected.
This upward shift in LPG prices is expected to reverberate across various sectors and businesses heavily reliant on commercial LPG for their operational needs
