The concerted campaign will ensure that the counting process conducted by the ECI is exemplary, as per the rule book and not influenced by any bias. For this, a detailed action plan has been also rolled out. Counting to the ongoing 18th Lok Sabha takes place on Tuesday, June 4. The second stage after that is the issue of close interaction with the institutions of democracy –be it the President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, the ECI and the Leaders of the INDIA Alliance with regards to the transition period that follows thereafter.

The meeting in Delhi on May 28 was attended by senior leaders of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), Darshan Pal (Punjab, who attended online), Suresh Kauth, Haryana, Hannan Mollah, Polit Bureau Member of the CPI-M and Convenor of the Bhoomi Adhikar Andolan, Krishna Prasad of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), Parakala Prabhakar, political economist, Syeeda Hamid, former Chairperson of the National Commission of Women (NCW), John Dayal, senior activist and writer, Nadeem Shaikh, United Against Hate, Tara Rao and Noor Sridhar, Edelu Karnataka, Dhananjay, President of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) and Teesta Setalvad (Vote for Democracy). Senthil Sashikumar, Indian National Congress and also a candidate from Tamil Nadu and Mano Thangaraj, minister for Dairy Development in the DMK government in Tamil Nadu were also present. Several participants like MG Devashyayam and Sudhir Vombatkere, experts in the electioneering process, Subhashini Ali, senior polit bureau member CPI-M joined online.

Last week, a similar gathering had met in Bengaluru on May 21, 2024.

The resolution states that “The entire period of this 18th Lok Sabha election, particularly after the declaration of polls and the operation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) been marked by a hitherto unprecedented violations of the Constitution, Indian law and the MCC and also blatant instances of evident malpractices in electioneering.”

In addition to emphasising upon the blatant unwillingness of the ECI to discharge their duties as prescribed by the Constitution of India, the resolution seeks to collectively alert the fellow citizens of India regarding the possibilities of manipulation in the counting process and the transition period that follows thereafter. It was also provided in the resolution that issues such as agrarian distress, rampant economic inequality and impoverishment, unemployment and crimes against women set the narrative of the current elections, forming the opinion of the voting public. The mandate of the people, which has a possibility of the current ruling regime, should be fairly implemented.

The resolution states that “There is genuine apprehension and fear that these levels of structured manipulations will continue both during the counting process and thereafter, failing to respect the mandate of the people.”

Based on the aforementioned apprehensions and concern, a resolution to form a “vigilant voter task force” was issued for the following:

“1. We the People Are closely watching the Counting Process scheduled for June 4, 2024. 

2. We strongly remind all political parties to fulfil their involvement and role in the Counting Process.
3. We will reject any Mandate based on horse trading. 
4. We remind the Supreme Court of India of its duties to ensure free and fair elections. 
5. We strongly impress upon the President of India to ensure a smooth formation of government based on a free and fair result.
6. We urge that whoever comes to power will abide by, protect and uphold the Constitution.”

A total of three key interventions and their mechanisms were also put forth by the resolution. The first intervention was to retain and build upon the narrative as set by the People by encouraging independent media, building a reality-based counter narrative and countering the tactic of psychological manipulation employed by the ruling government.

The second intervention is to ensure citizens vigilance on counting day by involving citizens at the local level and political parties, as well as mobilization of people across the country in sensitive booths to ensure that the vote counting process is by the law and rule book, free and fair. The last intervention of to act as a Transition Watch Commission upon the declaration of result. To ensure the same, multiple press meets in coordination with mass organisations and civil society will be held. If required, Constitutional Courts will also be approached. 

The complete resolution can be read here.

The complete resolution in Hindi can be read here:

The complete resolution in Marathi can be read here:

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The post From counting of votes by the rule book to respecting the mandate of the people, transparency and integrity is key: People’s Organisations, Delhi appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Explaining the concept of domicide, Fahad Zuberi in his Indian Express article notes that demolition can be “both constructive and destructive”, but domicide, on the other hand, “is the killing of home”. He continues, “A home is a living breathing ecosystem. It is built of memories, snippets of life’s milestones, and social interactions. Home is a promise of safety, a necessity for dignity and a matter of pride. Home is the place for a family to live and build a future, to aspire and dream…to rejoice in achievements and to mourn and grieve in loss…Home is the basis of identity, a requirement for state welfare, and even a qualifier to be counted by the state. Home is a place to exercise rights, to engage with others in privacy and dignity, the last bastion against societal stigma, and the last space where the right to privacy can materialise. Home, therefore, is alive and hence, home is not demolished. Home is killed.”

Such “killing of homes” in Delhi has been going on since long time, but the matter has exacerbated in the last few years, with significant increase in the number of people affected due to eviction drives in the city. In February this year, the Delhi Forest Department carried out demolition drive on the ‘forest land’ in Tughlakabad and Aya Nagar, ThePrint reported. The drive which began on February 27 and continued the next day, demolished around 25-30 houses. The forest department claimed to have recovered 1.5 hectares of forest land from the ‘illegal’ possession. Many of the residents were served the notices in the evening, and the next day in the morning JCBs started bulldozing their houses, some of them were not even present as their houses got demolished. A resident claimed that they have been living here for 15 years with all the legal documents including Aadhar and electricity bill, and questioned what the forest department was doing all these years?

The Times of India reported that the demolitions carried out over the couple of days in Tughlaqabad, Sangam Vihar, Neb Sarai and Ayanagar was in adherence with the direction issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to free the encroached forest lands, following the NGT order in 2015 in the case of Sonya Ghosh v Govt of NCT and Others.

Similarly, on February 28, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) carried out demolition in Khajuri Khas, bulldozing the house of Wakeel Hassan, the famous rat-hole miner who along with his team of fellow rathole miners had rescued the trapped labourers from the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand in 2023. The family of Hassan allege that he was targeted because of his Muslim identity. As per the Indian Express report, Shri Ram Colony where Hassan lived featured among the list of unauthorised colonies, but Hassan was quoted as saying, “My house is unauthorised the way the entire colony is unauthorised. The whole exercise is to extort money from me.” He also alleged that no notice was served before razing his house. The demolition suggested that his house was particularly targeted even as some other houses in the colony remained unaffected. Ironically, DDA which was setup with the purpose of providing affordable housing to the economically weaker sections of the society has become of the leading agencies driving wholesale demolitions in the national capital to remove the encroachments and ‘illegal’ structures.

Throughout the month of January 2024, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) reportedly carried out a total of 440 demolitions. MCD claimed that it recovered around 70 acres from these demolition activities removing “illegal structures”. The areas where it carried out its operation include Dera Mandi, Bhati, Said-ul-Azaib, Chattarpur, Burari, Jaitpur, and Narela. The same report noted that the zealous demolitions drives were resumed after the temporary ban was lifted on construction and demolition activities under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Notably, GRAP Stage III is invoked whenever the AQI index goes above 400, and during its stage III enforcement, all construction and demolition activities are completely banned to mitigate air pollution in the city.

On January 30, 2024, DDA demolished one mosque, four temples and 77 graves in Sanjay Van, which are were recorded as illegal structures in the protected Southern Ridge, Hindustan Times reported. DDA also demolished the historic Akhondji mosque as part this drive, which finds mention in Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) list under entry no 135, which recorded that the monument was repaired in 1853, much before Sanjay Van or DDA came up, contradicting the agency’s claim about its illegality. Notably, the agency also demolished the house of the grave digger Zakir Hussain in the process, leaving his family without any roof.

On December 21, 2023, MCD demolished around 300 houses near DPS Mathura Road in Nizamuddin, leaving the residents without any shelter in the biting cold of Delhi winters, Indian Express reported. Furthermore, the residents affected due to the demolition found no place in urban shelter homes run by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), as the DUSIB run shelter homes refused them entry. A month before, on November 13, 2023, large number of Burari residents were reported protesting against the demolition orders sent by the Land and Building Department, affecting around 1000 families and 4800 individuals, Land Conflict Watch reported. In the same month, New Indian Express noted that the demolition drive carried out against alleged encroachments in a slum cluster near Sunder Nursery at Nizamuddin has rendered over 500 families homeless.

HLRN report notes that most evictions (58.7%) during 2022-23 were carried out under the category of slum clearance/anti-encroachment, followed by 35% of evictions under the category of infrastructure and ‘development’ projects. It further revealed that in “….at least 36 per cent of evictions in 2023 and 27 per cent of evictions in 2022, affected persons belonged to historically marginalized groups, including religious minorities, Adivasis/Scheduled Tribes, Dalits/Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, as well as nomadic and indigenous communities, such as the Gadia Lohars.”

In the backdrop of G20 summit, which was hosted in New Delhi in 2023, thousands of poor residents were further rendered homeless, as the authorities zealously made efforts to clean up and beautify the city. As per the Down to Earth report, nearly 3 lakh residents were affected due to G20 preparations. “The Forced Evictions Across India and G20 Events” report prepared by the concerned citizens forum has said that “The demolitions in Tughlaqabad and Mehrauli are possibly linked to the heritage walks being planned for the G20 delegates. The Tughlaqabad demolitions, one of the biggest, have left more than 2,50,000 men, women and children displaced.” Outlook had reported that in April 2023 “close to 1,000 homes were razed in Tughlakabad claiming that the land belonged to the Archaeological Survey of India”. Similarly, it noted that 600 homes were razed in Moochand Basti, and further evictions were carried out in Mehrauli, Yamuna flood plains, and other areas of NCR region.  The Janta camp located at Pragati Maidan, the venue of G20 summit, and a slum cluster at Dhaula Quan were also demolished as the international delegation would traverse along that route. In June 2023, TheWire reported that 40 families were served notice to immediately vacate from the banks of the Yamuna, without specifying any deadline. As per the Quint, since March 2023, on the directives of the Delhi High, the DDA has carried out multiple demolition drives in the Yamuna floodplains. Reuters in its reportage on G20 induced demolitions in the national capital noted the response of the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Kaushal Kishore as saying that “At least 49 demolition drives in New Delhi between April 1 and July 27 led to nearly 230 acres (93 hectares) of government land being reclaimed”. The Quint on September 7, 2023, published an article citing the parliamentary response of the housing ministry and said that “as many as 13.5 million people live in unauthorised colonies in the national capital”.

Law, Policy and Politics

While most of these demolitions take place under the guise of lawful and legal enforcement to remove illegal structures from the city, the substantive question of rule of law remains unanswered. The courts on their part are seen increasingly reluctant to stop such demolition drives, and even on many occasions directing the agencies to remove ‘illegal’ encroachments. Thus, the agencies often cite court orders or directives as a response when asked about the evictions and demolitions activities, ignoring that on many occasions even a notice is not issued to the affected person before undertaking demolition.

The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) released the policy in 2015 which notes that in-situ rehabilitation in the form of alternative accommodation shall be provided “to those living in JJ of Bastis, either on the same land or in the vicinity within a radius 5 Km. In case of exceptional circumstances, it can be even beyond 5 Km with prior approval of the Board.” But this protective cover extends only to Bastis and Jhuggies that have come up before 2006 and 2015 respectively. The policy maintains that “JJ Bastis which have come up before 01.01.2006 shall not be removed (as per NCT of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second Act, 2011) without providing them alternate housing. Jhuggis which have come up in such JJ Bastis before 01-01-2015 shall not be demolished without providing alternate housing…”. But the same policy also excludes any Basti or Jhuggi that has come up after the said cutoff dates, it notes, “GNCTD shall ensure that no new jhuggi comes up after 01-01- 2015. any jhuggi comes up after this date, the same shall immediately be removed without providing them any alternate housing.”

Importantly, DUSIB was setup as a response to the Supreme Court judgement in Sudama Singh and Others v. Govt. Of Delhi and Others, which ruled that in the context of the MPD (Master Plan for Delhi), “jhuggi dwellers are not to be treated as „secondary‟ citizens. They are entitled to no less an access to basic survival needs as any other citizen. It is the State‟s constitutional and statutory obligation to ensure that if the jhuggi dweller is forcibly evicted and relocated, such jhuggi dweller is not worse off. The relocation has to be a meaningful exercise consistent with the rights to life, livelihood and dignity of such jhuggi dweller.” The verdict further highlighted the need to undertake proper survey to record the jhuggis spread across the city and said that “…since most relocation schemes require proof of residence before a „cut-off date…If these documents are either forcefully snatched away or destroyed (and very often they are) then the jhuggi dweller is unable to establish entitlement to resettlement. Therefore, the exercise of conducting a survey has to be very carefully undertaken and with great deal of responsibility keeping in view the desperate need of the jhuggi dweller for an alternative accommodation.”

But this progressive judgement lost its force in the face of another Delhi High Court judgement delivered in 2022, which held that “only residents of 675 slums listed by the DUSIB and DDA were eligible for rehabilitation under the 2015 policy”, as per the Article 14 report. This verdict also affected another judgement on the Delhi High Court in Ajay Makan v. Union of India which had provided slum residents with constitutional protections from forced and unannounced evictions, Scroll reported. Furthermore, the aforementioned Article 14 report analysed the DUSIB Act and found that as per section 2(g) of the DUSIB Act, “a settlement may be considered a JJ basti only if it comprises at least 50 houses, making smaller slum colonies ineligible for rehabilitation even if residents meet other eligibility criteria.” Following these developments, courts have increasingly refused to intervene in matters of forceful or summary evictions by the public authorities, leaving the petitioners red-faced. Thus, as a result of these policy and legal developments, poor residents in the city find themselves without any strong constitutional or political recourse, with some lawyers and activists even arguing against going to courts in such cases.

Evictions and Elections 2024

As the Delhi votes on May 25 to send 7 MPs to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the parliament, many who lost their homes in the demolition drives are disillusioned and lack trust in any political party. Speaking with Indian Express, Renu, a voter from South Delhi constituency, expressed her displeasure and said “When the bulldozer arrived, nobody came to help. Nobody stood with us… so, who will we vote for…We lost our belongings in the demolition. I don’t want to vote for any of them…BJP carried out the demolitions, but the AAP government did nothing. Dealers sold the land to us and we took a loan to buy it. We didn’t know it was government land.”

Another voter, Mustaqim, from East Delhi constituency told the reporter that “Modi ji said ‘jahan jhuggi wahan makaan’. Here there’s no jhuggi, no house. The councillor and MLA (AAP Jangpura MLA Praveen Kumar) helped us with the court case. Now we can only hope…”

Both BJP and AAP touted ‘jahan jhuggi wahan makan’ scheme but the slow implementation of the Centre run PM-AWAS (Urban) scheme under which EWS flats are to be handed over to economically weaker section remains lackluster. Importantly, the issue of lack of funds in the hands of jhuggi dwellers makes even these highly subsidised schemes impractical for many. Therefore, even policies like DUSIB’s “Delhi Slum & JJ Rehabilitation and Relocation Policy, 2015” remains ineffective as it requires eligible beneficiaries to pay rupees 1,12,000 + 30000(maintenance) to avail the benefits of alternative housing scheme.

While the opposition AAP and Congress, which are alliance partners, have criticised the Central Government for the spate of demolitions and evictions, the affected voters remain stoically unhappy that no party stood with it when demolitions took place.

The AAP is yet to release its manifesto for the Lok Sabha Election 2024 while Congress and BJP manifestos find no mention on rehabilitating the jhuggies or preventing demolitions.

[1] https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2022/10/domicide-must-be-recognised-international-crime-un-expert

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The post As Delhi votes this week for the Lok Sabha 2024 election, those affected by demolitions and evictions lack trust in the parties appeared first on SabrangIndia.

VIDEO | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Congress candidate from North East Delhi, Kanhaiya Kumar was attacked by unidentified men earlier today.#LSPolls2024WithPTI #LokSabhaElections2024

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/X6Z1S0FXje

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 17, 2024

The attackers said that they attacked Kumar because he had given anti-India slogans earlier. The alleged attacker is referring to the 2016 incident at Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru University where the media had raised allegations about anti-national, separatist slogans being raised at the university. Kumar, who was the student union president, along with other students, had been arrested in the case that followed. 

Recently, during the course of an investigation, a forensic report has revealed that that it was a close aide of the then Human Resource Department Minister Smriti Irani, Shilpe Tewari, has come under  the focus of the investigation in relation to some doctored videos of the event. These videos, now considered to be doctored, which had been circulated around by media in the aftermath of the event had been used to accuse the students at the university of making anti-India slogans. 

According to Hate Detectors, the two now detained for attacking the MP candidate call themselves ‘Sanatani’ and ‘Kattar Hindu’ respectively. They both are public Instagram figures it seems, as one of them has over 11000 followers, and the other has over 300,000. They have both claimed responsibility for the attack in a video shared by them. They say they have given Kumar a ‘treatment’ for his ‘anti-India’ talks. 

The main attackers who carried out a pre-planned attack on #Congress leader #KanhaiyaKumar are #DakshChaudhary and #AnnuChaudhary. Many criminal cases are already registered against them. pic.twitter.com/CsYoJm5avF

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) May 17, 2024

The north-east Delhi police commissioner has stated that the videos of the incident are being examined and an investigation is underway. 

As of now the Congress has claimed that the attackers belong to the BJP, and especially to those known by the north-east Delhi’s current MP Manoj Tiwari and the candidate opposite Kumar. However the party’s office has denied such claims and stated that the Congress party is spreading rumours.  Delhi goes to vote for the country’s Lok Sabha elections on May 25, on the sixth phase. 

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The post Delhi candidate Kanhaiya Kumar attacked during campaign appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The study focuses on the crucial issue of production of a person within the first 24 hours of arrest and determination of remand hearing, an issue pivotal for personal liberty. This study also breaks important new grounds on production and remand. The report highlights problems with trial courts, which are often the first layer of the justice system for citizens.

In one Delhi court when India was to play against England, a magistrate extended the lunch break by 40 minutes, Project 39A study reveals Delhi courts experiences!

The key points of study focus on the pretrial of the criminal legal process, first production remand, artefacts of the arrest memo and medico-legal certificate (MLC), engagement of magistrates, experience of accused, role of remand lawyers, workload of magistrate, invisibilisation of causelist, consequence of violations along with future directions.

The Executive Director Project 39A –at the release on May 15–highlighted that they undertook this study because these issues have considerable bearing on core liberty protections in the Constitution against arbitrary arrest and detention. Further, in these proceedings before the magistracy, important aspects of the subsequent trial get determined and therefore have significant fair trial implications. This study is also important because of its focus on magistrate courts as its site. For far too long, legal research in India has not paid sufficient attention to the district and magistrate courts – courts where the law gets shaped and assumes a life of its own. In order to understand first productions and remand hearings, we certainly need to travel beyond the provisions of the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code and various judgments that declare the law on the issues. As is plainly obvious from the findings of this study, the law on these issues is much more than just those things. It is imperative that the technical legal understanding of the law on these critical aspects of criminal justice be infused with a real understanding of its practice at its primary site.

The study calls for the display of causlists for remand cases also outside courtroom, as Project 39A team had found the absence of the same during their observations.

The study further offers directions that with extended periods of pretrial detention in the new criminal law framework[i] , there is need for urgent attention to ensure that statutory safeguards are implemented substantively and systemic fault lines addressed effectively. While the new criminal laws intend to bring about changes in the structure of the magistracy[ii], the organisation and work structure of a magistrate remains unchanged.

The key conclusion of the study can be found here:

The entire report may be read here.

[i] See S.187 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 which is due to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 in July 2024, as part of the complete overhaul of criminal laws in India

[ii] A different system of judicial hierarchy of Metropolitan Magistrates in Metropolitan areas, including Delhi (Section 16 to Section 19, CrPC) has been excluded under the Bharatiya Nagarik Surakha Sanhita, 2023 (due to be enforced in July 2024).

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October 23, 2023, Delhi

The Telegraph reported that students from JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia and Delhi University detained as they try to hold protest near Israeli embassy and police had erected barricades to stop them from reaching the embassy at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road. The report detailed that scores of students from JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia and Delhi University had gathered to take part in the protest. Police had erected barricades to stop them from reaching the embassy at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road. When some of the students tried to march towards the embassy, they were detained as they did not have the required permission to hold the protest, said a police officer, adding that “no one was allowed to violate law and order”.  All India Students Association (AISA) Delhi unit president Abhigyan said several students were detained and taken to a police station.

October 21, Mumbai

This protest reported on social media from Mumbai took place on October 21.

Mumbai, India
Another big protest was organized in Mumbai in solidarity with Palestine.

Free Free Palestine pic.twitter.com/U4B8T2DJ4W

— زماں (@Delhiite_) October 21, 2023

October 17, 2023

In Delhi, again, the state police, along with the Rapid Action Force had, on October 17, detained two busloads of protesters who came for a “Citizens’ Vigil” against Israel’s offensive on Gaza.

Kashmir

On the two Fridays (October 20 and before that October 13) since the war began, Muslims were barred from offering prayers at Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, Kashmir. Police closed down the iconic masjid, apprehending protests in support of Palestine. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, who was recently allowed to offer Friday prayers and deliver the Friday sermon at Jama Masjid, was once again put under house arrest on October 15 and is not being allowed to step out of his house, The Wire has reported.

October 15-18, 2023, Mumbai

While the Indian Express reported that two activists say cops beat them up during protest against Israel that took place on October 13, police has denied the accusation and claimed that the protesters “assaulted” policemen. The Mankhurd police Friday night arrested two young activists who were protesting against the Israeli government. 

Police also allegedly beat up one of them in custody. While the two protesters were arrested, others were booked. The arrested activists were identified as Ruchit Lad, 28, an architect from Mulund, and Supreeth Ravish, 26, a teacher from Mankhurd (arrested under sections 353 and 332 and sections of rioting under IPC). Both are activists of Revolutionary Workers Party of India (RWPI). According to Mankhurd police, RWPI had planned to organise a protest in Matunga-Dadar area in connection with the Israel-Palestine clash. But, as they were not allowed, Supreeth and Ruchit on Friday, October 13, evening held placards in Lallubhai compound area in Mankhurd and protested against the Israel government. Other youths soon joined them.

It was when the youths were produced before the court thereafter that Ruchit –one of them–alleged that he was assaulted in the police station. “The magistrate recorded the statement of Ruchir and ordered for medical to be conducted and the report be made available Monday. The application for police custody was rejected and the activists were remanded to judicial custody,” said advocate Shahbuddin Shaikh, who represented the two accused to the IE.

Meanwhile the TISS Students’ Union in a press statement issued thereafter stated that it stands in solidarity with the two activists who have been detained by the Mankhurd Police following a peaceful protest against Israel’s violence in Palestine. The Students’ Union of TISS Mumbai stated that it stands in “unwavering solidarity and condemns, in the strongest terms, the recent arrests of two dedicated Mumbai activists, Supreeth our alumnus (MASW – PH, 2018) and Ruchir, by the Mankhurd Police. Supreeth and Ruchir were detained in the wake of their participation in a protest against the Israeli government’s ongoing violence on civilians in Palestine.” The statement also says that “the charges filed against these activists, including sections 353 and 332 of the Indian Penal Code, in addition to other related sections such as those for alleged violations of section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code and section 37 of the Maharashtra Police Act, are a source of significant concern. The misuse of these provisions is particularly troubling when applied to peaceful protestors and civilians. Such abuse poses a serious risk to the suppression of democratic voices and individuals advocating for justice and accountability. “The statement also points out that such actions are a violation of article 19(1)(b) and it must be vigorously protected in the interest of our nation and its welfare. 

Meanwhile in Pune, October 13, even as the war between Israel and Palestinian militant outfit Hamas is on, various organisations in Pune came out in support of Palestine on October 13. 

Activists of the Revolutionary Workers’ Party of India, New Socialist Alternative, Naujawan Bharat Sabha, Stree Mukti League, with support from Indian Christian Womens’ Movement and Disha Vidyarthi Sanghtna staged protest at the Pune District Collectorate against the “colonial occupation of Palestine by Zionist Israel”.  According to reports in The Indian Express, protesters condemned Israel by shouting slogans of “Palestine Zindabad” and were holding several banners like “Death to Zionist Occupation, Death to Imperialism”, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!” They also distributed pamphlets, which claimed that the October 7 attack on Israel from Gaza was in self-defence of Palestinian citizens. “We do not support the Hamas ideology. But we support the Palestinian freedom movement,” it stated.

A delegation of protesters thereafter submitted a letter to Resident Deputy Collector Jyoti Kadam. “PM Modi is supporting Israel in the ongoing war. We condemn it. We demand that our government end all ties with Israel and stands by Palestine,” said Parmeshwar Jadhav of RWPI, part of the delegation. He told the media, “Some of our activists faced detentions by police in Mumbai, Delhi and in Andhra Pradesh. We demand their immediate release,” said Jadhav. He said no activists in Pune were detained.

 October 9, 2023, UP

First, in response to the Israel-Gaza war, several students of the Aligarh Muslim University took out a rally on October 9. This peaceful rally, organised as an expression of solidarity with Palestinians, saw four students in trouble as the police booked them under Sections 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, language, etc.), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), and 505(statements inducing public mischief) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). 

The state chief minister, Ajay Bisht aka Yogi Adityanath, soon after the AMU protest, directed the police to take “stern action” against actions or social media posts in support of Palestine. According to a report in the Deccan Herald, senior district police officials have been told to speak to the Muslim clerics and make it clear that “any attempt to incite passion on social media or a similar call from the religious places will not be tolerated”.

A cop, belonging to the Muslim community, posted in Lakhimpur Kheri district in Uttar Pradesh, had merely shared a pro-Palestine post on social media. Within days, he was suspended from duty and an additional superintendent of police rank officer was appointed to carry out an inquiry about the constable and “his political inclination”. 

In similar incidents, the police in Kanpur booked two young Muslim clerics, Suhail Ansari and Atif Chowdhary, for posting content in support of Palestine on social media. While Ansari was arrested, the police raided Chowdhary’s residence.

Background

Irrespective of which parties dominate the government is in power and what the political party’s stand has been on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, protestors in many states are facing criminal action for acts of “unlawful assembly” to promote “enmity between two groups”. India’s position on West Asia – reiterated by the Narendra Modi government – on the Israel-Palestine conflict is that it supports a “negotiated solution resulting in a sovereign, independent, viable and united State of Palestine, within secure and recognised borders, at peace beside Israel as endorsed in the relevant UNSC and UNGA Resolutions”.

It is the right to protest peacefully however which is guaranteed but appears in many instances to have been denied.

Ironically even in Congress-ruled Karnataka, the police’s actions were no different than UP, Delhi or Mumbai.

The police from the Cubbon Park jurisdiction in Bengaluru booked 11 persons, including a member of the Bahutva Karnataka (a citizen’s group), and other unnamed people for holding a solidarity gathering in support of Palestine on MG Road. While the police haven’t booked them for “promoting enmity”, the sections applied are largely for gathering without permission and for “public nuisance”. 

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New York, Chicago, Madrid, Athens, Sydney, Paris, the people march for #Palestine

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Pursuant to the raids and sealing of the Newsclick office, on October 4, a statement was released by Newsclick wherein they firmly condemned the action undertaken by the Government “that refuses to respect journalistic independence, and treats criticism as sedition or “anti-national” propaganda.” They provided that no FIR has been submitted to them and the electronic devices seized from the houses of journalists without any adherence to law.

The complete statement can be read here.

A copy of the FIR was supplied to the Newsclick on October 5 on the order of the Delhi Court.

Since the news of massive searches surfaced multiple protests have been organised and statements of solidarity have been extended. Students, journalists, media organisations, politicians, etc. spanning across the length and breadth of the country expressed their anguish and surprise at the crackdown, and took to streets and social media to show camaraderie with the ones that were (and still are) targetted. For those protesting, the searches were clearly aimed at suppressing dissent and controlling the remaining independent media houses that are critical of the Modi government.

1. Protest at Jantar Mantar

On October 4, a protest was called by All India Students’ Association (AISA) at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The said protest saw the participation of a large group of civil society members- journalists, students and citizens. Protestors could be seen carrying banners at the protest, bearing the messages “We will neither bend nor crawl”, “Release Prabir Purkayastha” and “Stop attack on press freedom”. As per reports, the said protest saw the participation of more than 500 people.

Shabnam Hashmi, sister of historian Sohail Hashmi whose house was also raided by the Delhi Police was quoted by the Print as saying, “These attempts will not deter us from standing for what is right.”

Furthermore, Neha, secretary of the AISA’s Delhi unit, had addressed the protest gathering and stated that “This is a blatant attack on the democratic values of India. The government is targeting the journalists who raised their voice in support of the farmers’ issue. We condemn this attack on press freedom in the country.” She had further called for a citizens’ collective effort to fight back against the illegal police action.

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2. Protest outside the Press Club of India

On October 4, several journalists expressed their angst and protested at the office of Press Club of India to show solidarity. The said protest saw the participation of Journalist Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, who was himself interrogated as a part of the raids for being a contributor at Newsclick, MK Venu, Siddharth Varadarajan, author Ramchandra Guha, Mukul Kesavan and author Arundhati Roy. The protesting journalists had held banners demanding press freedom and end to misuse of anti-terror laws against independent and free thinking journalist.

Journalist Thakurta had also shared his experience with the questioning and behaviour of the police. “The entire staff of Delhi’s Special Cell asked me a set of many questions. However, their behaviour was very decent. They asked me if I needed tea and ordered lunch for me as well. As for the two — Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty —who have been arrested, I feel the police also behave in a decent way with them,” Thakurta said, as per a report of the New Indian Express.

 Protest outside the NYT office in New York

A protest was held in New York, USA in front of the NYT offices to extend support to Newsclick and journalists under attack. The solidarity protest also voiced their anger against the New York Times (NYT) which had published an ‘investigative piece’ in August, alleging NewsClick received funding from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which had formed the basis of the police action. The protestors could be seen carrying yellow placards that read “NYT lies leads to Modi’s crimes against the Press”, “Stop NYT Slander against anti-war voices”, and “Hands off NewsClick and independent media.” The protestors also called out the Modi government’s stance against press freedom.

A video from the protest can be viewed here:

Hands off NewsClick!

A recent New York Times hit piece smeared leading Indian progressive outlet @newsclickin as part of a “Chinese propaganda network”. This week the Modi gov’t cited this pretext for mass raids & arrest of journalists — we protested outside the NYT in response! pic.twitter.com/BsOyWJzagJ

— Party for Socialism and Liberation (@pslnational) October 4, 2023

4. Protest at Kolkata Press Club

On October 5, a solidarity protest was called by the Kolkata Press Club wherein hundreds of journalists had gathered. As per media reports, the protesting journalists had taken out a rally from the Press Club premises to the Gandhi Statue. The protesting journalist could be seen donning black badges and carrying placards saying, “Journalists are not terrorists”, “Defend press freedom”, etc.

Participating in the protest were renowned members of the media fraternity such as veteran journalist Rantideb Sengupta, Subhasish Maitra, ALTnews founder Pratik Sinha, senior journalist Monideepa Banerjee (former regional director of NDTV), Calcutta Journalists Club president Prantik Sen, associate editor of Bengali daily, Ganashakti, Atanu Saha, Press Club Kolkata president Snehasish Sur and secretary, Kingshuk Pramanik.

5. Protest at Freedom Park, Bangalore

A protest was held at the Freedom Park, Bangalore which saw the participation of several prominent citizens and civil society organisations. Journalists and lawyers had led the protest. Arvind Narrain, president of the Peoples’ Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) Karnataka, was also a part of the said protest and had pointed out that the recent raids and arrests mirror those that marked the beginning of the Emergency of 1975-77.

6. Candlelight Vigil at Mumbai Press Club

Various media organisations in Mumbai came together to hold a candlelight vigil in solidarity with the NewsClick journalists on October 5 within the premises of the Mumbai Press Club. The event was backed by the Mumbai Press Club, Mumbai Marathi Patrakar Sangh, TV Journalists Association, Brihanmumbai Union of Journalists, Bombay News Photographers Association, and Mantralaya Vidhimandal Vartahar Sangh.

The participating protesting media organisations expressed their collective concern and emphasised the need for an impartial investigation into the allegations. They also called upon the authorities and the Delhi Police to cease actions perceived as a targeted campaign of harassment against these journalists.

Journalists in Mumbai protests against the BJP centre govt & its police coercive actions against journalists under draconian law. Journalists condemned the Delhi police act of seizing the mobile phones and laptops of the journalists. pic.twitter.com/cogix7O0B0

— Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) October 5, 2023

Speaking at the protest, senior journalist Nikhil Wagle compared the current crackdown on independent dissenting voices to the ones that took place during the emergency.

Senior Marathi journalist Nikhil Wagle (@waglenikhil) condemns crackdown on journalists by #Modi govt and compares it to the “declared emergency in 1984” #NewsClick #Mumbai. #JournalismIsNotACrime pic.twitter.com/vt3oJNCIBS

— Anmol Alphonso (@AnmolAlphonso) October 5, 2023

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7. Protest by journalists in Hyderabad

On October 5, a protest march was held by the Indian Journalists Union in Hyderabad to condemn the raids. The protest began at Desoddharaka Bhavan in Basheerbagh and ended near the Ambedkar statue near Tankbund.

Journalists protest rally in #Hyderabad against #DelhiPolice oppression raids on #NewsClick in #Delhi ##NewsClickRaided @MahtabNama @ShabnamHashmi pic.twitter.com/WnLCaQxkvr

— Mubashir.Khurram (@infomubashir) October 5, 2023

8. Demonstration and reading of a memorandum to the PM in Indore

On October 5, a demonstration against the attack on journalists was held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh wherein around 50 people assembled in front of the commissioner’s office near Gandhi Hall. The protest began with exhortation of slogans and display of posters denouncing the abusive police action and led to the crowd marching gathering at the entrance of the commissioner’s building.  On behalf of the organizers, Vineet Tiwari (National Secretary, Progressive Writers’ Association) read out the memorandum of the protest addressed to the Prime Minister which had raised questions regarding the harassment of journalists by authorities, the allegations of terrorism and anti-nationalism levied against Newsclick and the erosion of fundamental rights.

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Many conscientious citizens, intellectuals, artists, journalists associations – both nationally and internationally have also come out in solidarity with newsclick.

9. Statement by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and international support

On October 3, the CPJ had called for the immediate release of arrested Prabir Purkayastha. The international organisation had also asked the Indian authorities to “stop trying to intimidate journalists through tactics such as Tuesday’s police raids on the Delhi office of Indian news website NewsClick and the homes of at least 12 staff and journalists with ties to the outlet.”

Beh Lih Yi, CPJ’s Asia program coordinator, also stated that “This is the latest attack on press freedom in India. We urge the Indian government to immediately cease these actions as journalists must be allowed to work without fear of intimidation or reprisal.”

As per The Hindu, a similar statement was also issued by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia, urging the authorities to respect the fundamental rights of journalists and uphold the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression as per the Indian Constitution.

On October 4, 2023, the Office of the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights had also expressed serious concern over the ongoing assault on media freedom in India and the detention of journalists, saying, “Our office is troubled by reports of raids, arrests and detentions, and seizures of property of journalists in Delhi yesterday (Tuesday).”

As per a report of the Wire, the spokesperson in the office of the Human Rights Commissioner had said: “We have previously expressed concern about the shrinking of civic space in India, in particular for independent journalists and activists, and yesterday’s events may have a further chilling effect.”

10. Students of Columbia School of Journalism speak out

On October 5, the students of Columbia Journalism School also issued a statement condemning the persecution of journalists in India. In their statement, they highlighted the falling position that India holds in the Freedom Press Index and the worrying trend of using anti-terror laws against journalists to silence the truth.

11. Statement by Amnesty International India

Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India, also issued a statement on consistent targeting of Newsclick and the recent raids. He said “Journalism is not a crime. The NewsClick raids and the arrest of Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty are the latest attempts by the Indian government to decimate independent and critical media. Authorities must immediately release Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty and allow them to carry out their work without any reprisals.”

In his statement, Patel further highlighted the grave attack on human rights by employment of UAPA, a draconian law which violates fair trial rights with impunity, and urged for the immediate release of journalists detained on trumped-up or politically motivated charges and solely for their critical reporting.

12. Statement by the Press Club of India, the Editors Guild of India and other news organisations and associations of jo

The Press Club of India (PCI) and the Editors Guild of India (EGI) issued statements expressing solidarity with the journalists being questioned and arrested in the Newsclick case. have urged the government to provide details.

The EGI had issued a statement stating that it was deeply concerned about the raids at the residences of senior journalists. The organisation had called the said raids to be an attempt to muzzle the media. “We remind the government of the importance of an independent media in a functioning democracy and urge it to ensure that the fourth pillar is respected, nurtured and protected. While we recognise that the law must take its course if actual offences are involved, the due process has to be followed. The investigation of specific offences must not create a general atmosphere of intimidation under the shadow of draconian laws, or impinge on the freedom of expression and the raising of dissenting and critical voices,” the guild had said.

The PCI had expressed their deep concern regarding the raids by taking to ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter) and stated “The PCI stand in solidarity with the journalists and demand the government to come out with details.”

The Press Club of India is deeply concerned about the multiple raids conducted on the houses of journalists and writers associated with #Newsclick.

We are monitoring the developments and will be releasing a detailed statement.

— Press Club of India (@PCITweets) October 3, 2023

A statement was also released by the Indian Women’s Press Corps on social media through which they had expressed outrage and argued that the repeated targeting of certain media outlets for their criticism of government policies that are not people-friendly reflects poorly on a government that represents the world’s largest democracy.

We at @IWPC express strong outrage at the targeting of our members and other journalists.

We stand in solidarity with them and demand they be released and harassment stopped pic.twitter.com/2rPWyje765

— Indian Women’s Press Corps (@iwpcdelhi) October 3, 2023

The National Alliance of Journalists, the Delhi Union of Journalists, and the Kerala Union of Working Journalists (Delhi Unit) had also issued statements condemning the act of the Delhi police, emphasising the far-reaching impact that such raids will have on press freedom. Furthermore, the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) had demanded that usage of stringent anti-terror laws such as the UAPA indiscriminately to target journalists should be prohibited.

A joint statement was also issued by ten independent media organisations of West Bengal wherein they had highlighted the abuse of law against journalists, using spywares as well as increasing raids by government agencies like ED and the CBI to harass journalists.

Ten independent media organisations of West Bengal come together to support #NewsClick and attacked independent journalists pic.twitter.com/uL9Qy8gVOy

— Nagorik.net (@netnagorik) October 4, 2023

The Press Club of Bangalore in a statement said that it was deeply concerned over the raids by the Delhi police on the residences of journalists. “The Press Club of Bangalore urges for an unbiased and fast-tracked investigation in the matter while pushing for all authorities to uphold the freedom of press,” it had said.

13. Renowned intellectuals speak out

On October 5, a joint statement was issued by renowned writers and activists, including International Booker Prize winner Geetanjali Shree, Ramon Magsaysay Award winners P. Sainath and Aruna Roy, writers K.R. Meera, Perumal Murugan, Ramachandra Guha and V. Geetha, and singer T.M. Krishna. Through the statement, they condemned the Delhi Police’s UAPA case and action against the editor, staff members and contributors of Newsclick. in their statement, they have emphasised that “criticism is essential for a democracy and any attempt to mute voices is an assault on India’s democratic spirit.”

An open letter renouncing the employment of repressive tactics by the Indian government, issued by the International media outlet Peoples Dispatch, was signed by over 300 journalists, political leaders, artists, academics, and progressive activists from around the world. The statement provided that “NewsClick is exactly the kind of media outlet which strengthens a democracy, shining a light and giving a voice to those marginalized and silenced sectors of society which clamor for dignity and change.”

14. Statement by political parties and leaders.

In a joint statement, the INDIA alliance, a coalition of 28 opposition political parties, expressed their dismay over the raids conducted and  alleged that the Narendra Modi government has persecuted the media over the past nine years by using investigative agencies against them. As reported by the Hindu, the coalition had said, “The coercive actions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government are directed against only those media organisations and journalists that speak truth to power.”

The statement can be accessed here:

INDIA stands against any form of intimidation or silencing of journalistic voices. We are on the side of democracy, not dictatorship.

This is nothing but yet another distraction from the most important question in India today – of a nationwide caste census. pic.twitter.com/FG1UWXWbrT

— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) October 3, 2023

Many leaders of the opposition parties have also been putting out separate posts on social media to show their continuous support with the journalists and defending their rights.

On October 5, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also pointed finger at the Delhi Police and called the raids “unfortunate and a disgrace to democracy and traditions of freedom”

“Freedom of the press is fundamental to any democracy…In our country, we have a very long record of Supreme Court judgments upholding the freedom of the press in our country. I believe the government erred. If there is a charge of foreign funding that is illegal or improper, there are right ways to investigate it. But confiscating journalists’ laptops and depriving them of access is not right,” Tharoor told the media.

The video of Tharoor addressing the media can be viewed here:

#WATCH | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: On Delhi Police conducting raids at different premises linked to #NewsClick, #Congress MP #ShashiTharoor says, “Freedom of the press is fundamental to any democracy…What happened yesterday was not only unfortunate, it was a disgrace to our… pic.twitter.com/XkAJshrNjc

— NewsMobile (@NewsMobileIndia) October 5, 2023

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan tweeted his condemnation

Condemn the efforts to stifle alternative media that highlight issues sidelined by mainstream media. Criticism of Delhi Police’s moves against @newsclickin should be taken seriously. Silencing opposing voices is a fascist tendency. GoI should uphold the freedom of media to…

— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) October 4, 2023

15. Joint letter addressed to the Chief Justice of India by Digipub

On October 4, a letter was addressed to the Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, requesting for judicial intervention to “put an end to the increasingly repressive use of investigating agencies against the media”.

“During your time at the Supreme Court, you have seen how on numerous occasions, the country’s investigating agencies have been misused and weaponised against the press,” the letter said. “Sedition and terrorism cases have been filed against editors and reporters, and multiple, sequential and/or frivolous FIRs have been used as an instrument of harassment against journalists.”

The letter urged for the courts to consider three points: the framing of norms to discourage the seizure of journalists’ devices; guidelines for seizures and the interrogation of journalists; and finding ways to ensure accountability of state agencies. Through the letter, the media organisations also highlighted that these raids are an attack against the democratic structure of our country and its fourth pillar by stating that “…ad hoc, sweeping seizures and interrogations surely cannot be considered acceptable in any democratic country.”

Notably, the said letter was signed by a coalition of 24 media organisations, including the Press Club of India, Digipub News India foundation, The Indian Women’s Press Co., Foundation for Media Professionals, Chandigarh Press Club, Kerala Union of Journalists, among others.

Letter from the media to D.Y. Chandrachud, Chief Justice of India, on the Delhi police raids at the homes of journalists and seizure of devices.

“…ad hoc, sweeping seizures and interrogations surely cannot be considered acceptable in any democratic country.” pic.twitter.com/AY1idO1Oao

— DIGIPUB News India Foundation (@DigipubIndia) October 4, 2023

16. Statement by the PUCL (People’s Union for Civil Liberties)

On October 3, a statement was released by the PUCL condemning the raids as well as shocking usage of draconian terror sections against journalists. The statement highlighted that the raids have been carried out by the Delhi police “in order to influence public opinion and the court” as the 2021 cases of ED against the news portal and its founder were listed to be heard by the Delhi High Court after a week.

Additionally, the PUCL deemed the police action to be “nothing other than an egregious abuse of state power utilized to build a fairy tale narrative that Chinese money was being used by the raided journalists and media professionals for purposes of terrorism!”

The complete statement can be read here.

17. Statement by the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD)

On October 4, the NPRD released a statement strongly condemning the raids against Newsclick as well as the arrest of Amit Chakravarthi, who is a polio survivor and person with disability using crutches. In their statement, the international commitments of India to protect people with disabilities from inhumane treatment and torture was emphasised upon. The NPRD urged the authorities to make all reasonable accommodations for Amit Chakravarti while he remained in custody and take care of his accessibility needs. The statement, signed by general secretary Muralidharan, also said that the portal has been consistently championing the cause of the marginalised sections, including disabled people.

NPRD statement demanding #reasonableaccommodation for #disabled #polio survivor Amit Chakravarti of @newsclickin covered in @thewire_in https://t.co/hvQe3NEEkZ @armanaly @ncpedp_india @drag_org @vjayakumar @DisabilityIndia @SNAMBURAJAN @handicareindia @AmbikaPanditTOI

— National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (@NPRD_IN) October 5, 2023

18. Statement by the Campaign Against State Repression (CASR)

On October 5, a strongly-worded statement was released by the CASR condemned the raids against Newclick journalists, associated activists and NIA raids all over the country in the name of national security as well as the arrests made after these raids. CASR’s statement painted a concerning picture of the broader repression occurring across India. The CASR also demanded for the immediate end to the raids and for the immediate release of all political prisoners arrested after these raids. They also urged all democratic organizations and activists to come together in a united struggle against ‘Brahmanical Hindutva fascism’.

19. Memorandum submitted to Delhi Police Commissioner by National Union of Journalists (India)

On October 5, under the leadership of NUJI President Rash Bihari, a delegation of journalists submitted a memorandum to Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora to ensure that there is a fair investigation and that no journalists are misbehaved with by the police during interrogation. Notably, the NUJI is affiliated with the International Federation of Journalists. It was also asserted by the NUJI that it has always been in favor of independent, impartial and transparent journalism and strict action must be taken against anyone that is producing fake news, but no innocent journalist should be put behind bars.

20. Press Release by the All Indian Kisan Sabha (AIKS)

On October 5, the AIKS released a statement strongly criticizing the fascistic assault on NewsClick and other independent media organisations who are critical of the Narendra Modi led BJP regime. The statement provided that “The hounding of NewsClick based on false allegations is part of a larger design by the Modi regime to eliminate all forms of dissent. It is a blatant attack on press freedom.”

The AIKS highlighted the tireless role that the news click played in covering the stories of Farmer’s protest against the three farm laws, the killing of the dairy farmers by cow vigilantes, the role of the Sangh parivar in delhi riots, depicting “Newslick’s journalistic integrity and commitment to the masses”. An appeals was also made by the AIKS to the Indian peasantry “to intensify their struggles and align with democratic forces to fight this undeclared emergency.”

The complete statement can be read here.

There are reports of multiple protests from across India even as this piece is being published.

Related:

What is behind the synchronised Income Tax “survey” at NewsClick, Newslaundry? 

113 hours raiding multiple locations, it is still not clear why the ED is investigations Newsclick

ED Raids & NewsClick: Weaponising law by Criminalising Free Speech

85 hours and counting: Raid continues at NewsClick, editor’s health deteriorates

ED questioning of NewsClick Founder continues, while staff’s electronic gadgets seized

Truth shall prevail, have full faith in legal system: Newsclick

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In a video accessed by Sabrang India, there are disturbing visuals of saffron clad men assaulting the attendees violently. The ordeal reportedly escalated to a disturbing level, with reports emerging of victims being not only violently thrashed but some of them also subjected to attempts to forcibly remove their clothing.

The mob also later gathered in large numbers outside the local police station. According to Outlook India, the mob shouted “Jai Shree Ram,” towards members of the Christian community who sought refuge within the station.

According to The Wire, violence had unfolded on August 20, when a group of around 35 to 40 assailants armed with sticks, rods, and even swords, launched a brutal attack on the Christian community. The incident happened at 10:45 AM, within the walls of Siyyon Prathan Bhawan in the Tahirpur locality. The attackers barged into the prayer hall, amplifying their message of “Hindu rashtra banayenge, Jai Shree Ram” through loud speakers. 

 After the initial turmoil, the victims tried to seek refuge within the GTB Enclave police station. However, their attempt to file a First Information Report (FIR) was met with obstacles as outside the station, the mob of over 300 individuals continued their vociferous chants of “Jai Shree Ram,” creating an environment of tension and uncertainty.

Speaking on the incident to Wire, Pastor Satpal Bhati expressed profound dismay, saying, “The Christian community lives in constant fear, fearing for their lives.” This sentiment echoes the broader sentiment of the community, who felt targeted and unsafe within their own neighbourhood as attacks against Christian minorities increase.

This incident comes in the wake of rising violence against minorities. According to a report by Sabrang India, in the first half of 2023, there were alarming incidents of violence against Christians in India, with Uttar Pradesh accounting for 155 cases, as reported by the United Christian Forum (UCF). Whereas, across India, there were 400 such incidents, regardless of the ruling political party, marking a rising trend when compared to 274 incidents during the same period the previous year.

Related 

13 of Rajasthan’s 33 districts host Trishul Diksha Samarohs, spawn hate against Christians, & Muslims

Intolerance on the Rise: Unveiling Disturbing Trends in India

Under Guise of Religious Conversions, Attacks by Hindutva Groups Worsen Situation for Christians in India

India 131st out of 180 countries on child survival rankings: WHO-UNICEF-Lancet report

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Residents of Brahmapuri in the North-East district of Delhi were left shocked and outraged after a poster was posted and widely shared on social media, calling on Hindu landlords in the area not to sell their houses to Muslim buyers. The poster, which was pasted in Gali No. 13, warned that any registry of such sales would not be allowed and that landlords would be held responsible for any issues that may arise. It also stated that any future deals should be made with Hindus only. The poster was signed by Pradeep Sharma, an advocate from Gali No. 13, Brahmapuri.

When our correspondent spoke to local residents, they reported that the situation was now calm but that people were hesitant to discuss the matter. According to local residents, Sharma is a resident of Gali No. 13 and self-identifies as a lawyer. However, they were unable to confirm whether he had been arrested or if he had any affiliations with any political party.

Silence in Gully no 13 where the offensive poster appeared three days ago

One local resident from Gali No. 13 said that “two days ago, posters were found in the street. The imam of Mateen Masjid in the street filed a complaint with the police and an investigation was conducted. The station head and ACP from Osmanpur police station arrived at the scene, apprehended the accused Pradeep Sharma and took him into custody.” Other residents had different perspectives on the matter, claiming that he was absconding.

According to another resident, the street has a mixed population of Hindus and Muslims, and members of both communities jointly filed a complaint against Sharma and handed him over to the police. According to some residents, Sharma has claimed that there is a conspiracy against him and that his name was used in the poster without his knowledge or consent. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to contact Mr Sharma. However, when our correspondent contacted the police, the Osmanpur police station ASI Ramer stated that they received a complaint about such posters being put up, however, upon investigation, their police station head and ACP, along with their team, did not find any such posters when they reached Brahmapuri street number 13.

The area of Brahmapuri was not affected by the riots that occurred in the North East district of Delhi in 2020, but neighboring areas like Chauhan Bangar, Jaffrabad, and Brahmapuri adjacent to Ghonda on the left and Bhajanpura area experienced significant violence. These areas have remained sensitive since then, and the emergence of such posters has the potential to vitiate the atmosphere in the area. Already the streets seemed deserted and residents appeared reluctant to speak freely.

Related:

Bajrang Dal smells an opportunity in stirring the halal pot, pastes boycott posters

The ‘Jai Sriram’ posters betray a violent intent

Posters in UP village ‘order Muslims out’; Bid to hoist BJP flag atop mosque in another village

The post Provocative poster in Delhi’s Brahmpuri calls on Hindu landlords to not sell to Muslim buyers appeared first on SabrangIndia.

A 10-year-old boy from Seelampur in East Delhi, who had been allegedly sexually assaulted by his friends on September 18, has succumbed to his injuries. The boy breathed his last on the morning of October 1 while being treated at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Delhi government’s Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital (LNJP).

He had been brought to the hospital on September 22, three days after he had been sexually assaulted, the delay in getting proper and timely medical attention may have cost the boy his life. According to NDTV, the hospital contacted the police, but the parents did not make a statement until September 24, and that too only after receiving counselling. The mother told the police that the boys attacked her son due to the family’s inability to repay a debt. The three accused are also minors said to be in the age group of 10-12 years.

The police then filed a case against the accused under sections 377 (Unnatural offences) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Protection Of Children Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) had also issued notice to the police. According to the DCW, the mother had filed a complaint saying that the three boys had beaten her son with bricks and rods and also inserted a rod in his private parts.

Two of the three accused boys have been caught so far, while the third is absconding. The two boys who have been apprehended, were presented before the juvenile justice board. But according to Times of India, they were released when their families gave an undertaking.

Related:

Lakhimpur Kheri: Postmortem confirms Dalit sisters were raped before murder
Delhi HC expresses concerns over presence of CSA survivor at the time of POCSO bail

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Image Courtesy: english.newstracklive.com

In a shocking incident a Zomato Delivery agent was stabbed and left to bleed to death in Delhi’s Tilak Nagar area on June 15, 2022. Passersby allegedly ignored the dying man’s pleas for help. It was only when his Muslim colleague Asif found out about it, that help finally arrived… though it was too late by then.

The deceased, identified as 29-year-old Sagar Singh, had picked up a late-night delivery from a restaurant near his home and had stopped to smoke a cigarette before going to deliver the food package. At this point, two men, said to be Nihangs, asked him to stop smoking. When Singh protested, they allegedly stabbed him.

But what is more shocking is the allegation that Singh lay at the spot for 15-20 minutes before anyone called for help. Passersby allegedly ignored his pleas for help. It was his colleague Asif who called for help when he arrived on the spot. He first called Singh’s wife and then just as he was trying to reach the police helpline, the customer who had ordered the delivery called and Asif asked him to call the police. By the time the ambulance arrived and Singh was taken to hospital, it was too late. He was declared ‘brought dead’.

“Till the time I reached, nobody touched his body. It was already 15 minutes at least. If he would have been taken to the hospital in time, he might have been saved,” Asif said.

Singh’s brother-in-law Inder Pal who also works as a delivery agent told Hindustan Times, “Two Nihang Sikhs, who were present near the restaurant, abused Sagar for smoking. But when Sagar told them that he was smoking in an open space, and refused to stop, the two Nihangs got angry.” Pall alleged, “They took out their kirpans (daggers) and stabbed him in the left side of the chest.”

Deputy commissioner of police (west) Ghanshyam Bansal told the publication that the police arrested Harshdeep Singh, 22, a resident of nearby Chander Vihar, and the knife used in the murder was recovered from him. “During interrogation, Harshdeep told the police that he and his friend were near a restaurant on street number 13, Krishna Puri, when they saw Sagar blocking their way. He said they asked Sagar to move aside but he rebuked them instead,” said the DCP. Police are also investigating allegations of Singh being hit with bricks.

Meanwhile, Zomato has extended support to the deceased man’s family.

Related:

Hate Watch: Haribhushan Bachaul dubs Agnipath protesters “Jihadi”

Most troubling abuse of YouTube involves targeting of Muslims in India by BJP backers: NYU Stern Report

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