The complainant, Ghorpade, had alleged in the complaint that this broadcast violated NBDSA’s regulatory standards, which are designed to prevent content that promotes superstition, glorifies the supernatural, or contributes to religious intolerance. At the heart of the complaint is Shastri’s self-professed supernatural abilities and his inflammatory statements regarding Hindu nationalism and other religions. The program, titled “Baba Bageshwar Exclusive Interview,” is claimed to have allowed Shastri to make statements without adequate disclaimers or counterpoints, which Ghorpade argues could mislead viewers and incite religious disharmony.

The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of the complaint, the broadcaster’s response, the complainant’s counterarguments, and the final ruling by NBDSA.

Issues raised by the complainant

Ghorpade filed the complaint on July 11, 2023, two days after the program aired, citing concerns over how the program presented Shastri’s controversial views without sufficient context or disclaimers. Specifically, Shastri claimed supernatural abilities, stating he could locate missing animals, predict elections, and discover hidden resources, such as diamonds, through mystical means. Additionally, he made bold assertions about converting India into a “Hindu nation” and used language that could be interpreted as inflammatory towards other religious groups.  Ghorpade’s grievance was that News18 India had violated NBDSA’s Code of Ethics by allowing this content, which, he argued, glorified superstition, risked misleading viewers, and potentially incited communal tension.

The complainant raised multiple concerns regarding the nature and content of the broadcast, which, he argued, contained misleading information and reflected bias. He pointed out that the broadcast painted individuals involved in a negative light without sufficient factual basis, potentially damaging their reputations. According to the complaint, the program failed to offer a balanced perspective, choosing instead to highlight certain narratives over others, which resulted in “sensationalism over factual reporting.”

The complaint cited specific examples from the broadcast that allegedly violated NBDSA’s guidelines on impartiality and objectivity. Ghorpade’s submission underscored that the broadcaster’s portrayal was not only inaccurate but was presented in a way that amplified a single viewpoint, neglecting alternative perspectives that were crucial to an unbiased understanding of the issue.

Broadcaster’s submissions

News18 India defended itself by emphasising that the interview with Shastri was live, making it challenging for the anchor to fact-check or control Shastri’s spontaneous statements. The broadcaster argued that the views expressed during the interview were solely those of Shastri and were neither endorsed nor supported by the channel. News18 India also highlighted that Shastri was a prominent figure whose activities had captured public interest, and, as such, there was legitimate news value in covering his perspectives. The channel claimed its anchor made efforts to clarify that Shastri’s claims were personal beliefs and not objective truths.

In addition to this, the broadcaster defended its editorial choices, asserting that the program had been created within the bounds of journalistic freedom and served a legitimate public interest. The broadcaster argued that its intent was to inform viewers about pertinent issues, and it claimed that the broadcast was factually accurate. Furthermore, they maintained that editorial decisions were made in accordance with standard practices, emphasising that the program was not designed to mislead or harm any party involved.

The broadcaster further cited its right to freedom of expression, insisting that its reporting provided a necessary platform for public discourse on critical issues. They claimed that their team had followed due diligence, presenting the story in a responsible manner. According to the broadcaster’s submission, the program’s approach was “consistent with the norms of ethical journalism” and in line with industry standards. 

The complainant’s rebuttal

In response, Ghorpade countered that broadcasters have a responsibility to ensure that the content aired on their platforms does not contravene ethical standards, even if made by guests. He argued that News18 India’s decision to feature Shastri—whose controversial views were widely known—without more stringent oversight, violated NBDSA guidelines. Furthermore, he contended that the program’s lack of sufficient rebuttal or critical questioning could lead viewers to accept Shastri’s supernatural claims as credible. Ghorpade requested strict action against News18 India to reinforce that broadcasters are accountable for the statements of their guests, especially when these statements are divisive or irrational.

Decision of the NBDSA

After carefully considering both the complaint and the broadcaster’s defence, the NBDSA ruled in favour of Ghorpade, finding that the broadcaster had indeed violated its standards. The authority concluded that the program “lacked a balanced approach,” a requirement that is integral to fair and responsible journalism. In the order, the NBDSA remarked that while freedom of the press is vital, it must be exercised with responsibility to avoid harm or misinformation.

The NBDSA instructed the broadcaster to issue a public apology to address the misleading aspects of the broadcast. Additionally, it directed the broadcaster to take corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future. “This decision,” the NBDSA stated in its order, “should serve as a reminder to all media organisations about the necessity of upholding ethical journalism standards.” The ruling made it clear that sensationalism should never replace factual reporting, and it emphasised the importance of presenting a balanced narrative.

The Authority noted that broadcasters have the editorial freedom to invite guests; however, this freedom is not without limits. NBDSA found that Shastri’s statements promoting superstition and making divisive religious claims were irresponsible and risked promoting communal disharmony. The Authority criticised the broadcaster for not issuing clear disclaimers and not challenging Mr. Shastri’s claims more rigorously.

As a result, NBDSA issued a warning to News18 India, advising against inviting guests likely to promote superstitious beliefs or socially divisive opinions. It also directed the broadcaster to remove the interview from all digital platforms and confirm this action in writing within seven days. The NBDSA stressed the importance of responsible journalism and reminded News18 India of its obligation to adhere to standards that ensure content does not mislead or promote irrational beliefs.

The NBDSA’s decision in this case underscores the vital role of media accountability and ethical reporting standards in protecting public trust. By ruling in favour of Ghorpade, the NBDSA has reaffirmed that journalistic freedom must be balanced with a commitment to integrity and impartiality. This ruling serves as a precedent, reinforcing that media organisations are responsible for avoiding sensationalism and presenting a fair, balanced view to their audiences. The NBDSA’s order not only addresses Ghorpade’s concerns but also sends a clear message to the media industry regarding the importance of upholding credibility and trust in journalism.

The complete order can be viewed here:

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The post NBDSA orders News18 India to remove broadcast promoting superstition and religious intolerance based on complaint by activist Indrajeet Ghorpade appeared first on SabrangIndia.

MP SC/ST welfare fund diverted for the welfare of cow

In Madhya Pradesh, SC/ST welfare fund diverted for the welfare of cow, museum and religious sites. According to documents reviewed by HT, of ₹252 crore meant for cow welfare (Gau Samvardhan and Pashi Samvardhan), ₹95.76 crore has been allocated from SC/ST sub-plan. The cow welfare fund has increased from about ₹90 crore last year.

For redevelopment of six religious sites, almost half of the money allocated for the current financial years is from the SC/ST sub-plan. The government in the budget presented in July announced ₹109 crore for developing Shri Devi Mahalok, Salkanpur in Sehore, Saint Shri Ravidas Mahalok, Sagar, Shri Ram Raja Mahalok Orchha, Shri Ramchandra Vanvasi-Mahalok, Chitrakut and for a memorial of former prime minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee in Gwalior

Madhya Pradesh is the second state after Karnataka to divert funds from the SC/ST sub-plan for other schemes. Karnataka decided to take ₹14,000 crore from the sub-plan for funding its welfare scheme, following which the National Commission for Scheduled Castes had issued a show cause notice to the state chief secretary seeking an explanation. The ST sub-plan was introduced in 1974 and SC sub-plan in 1979-80 to implement provisions of Article 46 of the Constitution that provides for states to care for promotion of education and economic interests of the weaker sections. Under the scheme, the Central provides 100% special assistance to states to fund their SC/ST sub-plans. As Hindustan Times reported

Dalit teen forced to drink Cow Urine in UP

In UP’s Shravati district three youth were arrested on for forcing a Dalit minor to drink cow uterine. The victim, who is barely 15 years old (technician), setting sound mixers and audio system at social cultural events. When he was on his way home after work on July 9 in night, he was accosted by the trio – Kishan Tiwari, Dilip Mishra and Satyam Tiwari, who were in an inebriated state.

The accused also misbehaved with the minor and thrashed him, and one of them shot a video of the entire incident, Said Gilaula police station SHO Mahima Nath Upadhyay.

The victim reached home and narrated the ordeal to his elder brother. Next day, his parents and brother lodged a police complaint. The accused were allegedly peeved over the boy’s family charging them extra for an audio system they had installed for a function at their house, police said.

20-Year-Old Dalit Man sets Himself on fire after assault by Employer in UP

On July 13, a 20-year-old Dalit man, Kamalkant allegedly committed suicide in UP’s Firozabad by setting himself on fire after being beaten by his employer and associates.

On July 6, Kamalkant requested an advance of Rs 60, 000 from his employer, Pramod alias Pappu, to repay a loan. Instead of helping, Pramod, along with his associates, held Kamalkant hostage and brutally thrashed him, according to Superintendent of Police (Rural) Ranvijay Singh. A case was registered against Pramod and his associates—Bhura, Bholu, Arjun, and Anuj on Thursday. Anuj was arrested on Friday, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects, SP Singh added.

Dalit youth beaten for social media post in Gujarat

On July 17, in Gujrat’s Ahmedabad a 24-year-old Dalit youth was beaten up by a group of upper caste men allegedly for upholding his picture on his social media handle on Instagram, wearing a traditional headgear and sunglasses. 

The incident happened in Sayebapur village in Himatnagar taluka of Sabarkantha district in north Gujrat on the intriguing night of July 17. According to the FIR filed, Ajay Parmar, who runs an auto rickshaw for living, was beaten up by four men from the Darbar community, who consider themselves Kshatriyas. Parmar has said in the FIR, which was registered on July 18, that while he was returning home in his auto, he was stopped by two people near the Navanagar bus stand. The accused allegedly started beating Parmar, objecting to Parmar’s display picture (DP) which he had uploaded on his Instagram account.

Ajay said that “they told me that only from the Darbar community can wear safa and sunglasses”.

The case against the accused has been lodged under various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 147 (rioting), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) as well as the SC/ST Act.

This is not the first case in Gujarat where a Dalit has been beaten up for wearing sunglasses. In June 2023, a 21-year-old Dalit youth and his family were allegedly assaulted by the upper caste Rajput community members for purportedly wearing sunglasses and good clothes. The incident had taken place at Mota village in Palampur.

Several incidents of cast-based atrocities and violence have been reported across the country. Recently A Dalit minor boy brutally beaten by a school teacher. His mistake was that he refused to pluck lemons and Jamuns from the tree in the school for the teacher. The incident happened in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh

A #Dalit minor boy brutally beaten by a school teacher. His mistake was that he refused to pluck lemons and Jamuns from the tree in the school for the teacher. The incident happened in #Bareilly district of #UttarPradesh. pic.twitter.com/ZgKnpoaKrp

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 23, 2024

However, on July 20, derogatory and hate oriented slogans such as “Chamar Quit India”, “Dalit Quit India”, “Brahmin-Bania Zindabad’, and “Hindu-RSS Zindabad” were found on the walls of Kaveri hostel in Jawahar Lal Nehru University (JNU).

In agitation various Ambedkarite students raises slogans of “Jai Bheem” in protest against the anti-Dalits Slogans.

जेएनयू में ‘चम#र भारत छोड़ो, दलित भारत छोड़ो, ब्राह्मण-बनिया ज़िंदाबाद, RSS जिंदाबाद’ लिखा गया…छात्रों ने विरोध में ‘जय भीम’ के नारे लगाए…@BAPSA_JNU @AISA_tweets @aisa_delhi pic.twitter.com/S6BqJrROnY

— The Mooknayak (@The_Mooknayak) July 21, 2024

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The post MP diverted SC/ST welfare funds for cow welfare, atrocities against Dalits reported across country appeared first on SabrangIndia.

There were 10 such incidents of cow vigilantism that took place reportedly from May 28 to June end, where these vigilante mobs attacked people transporting cattle, with three incidents in Rajasthan, in Mal Ki Dhani, Jaipur on June 2 and one took place at an unspecified location on May 28, as per Hate Detectors.

There were another three that took place in Haryana Julana, and Pachgaon, Mewat on June 15, and Faridabad on June 18. Going ahead, one was reported by Hate Detectors in Maharashtra at Nagar Patti, Dhule on June 17, and another one in Vrindavan and Unnao in Uttar Pradesh. Another such incident was also reported in Khordha, Odisha. 

This is from Pachgaon, Mewat, Haryana. (15/06/2024)

The Cow Vigilantes armed with guns raided a village and assaulted 2 Muslims men over alleged cattle slaughter and selling beef. pic.twitter.com/XoPuiCzPoi

— Mohd Shahnawaz Hussain (@Mohd_S_Hussain) June 22, 2024

Churu, Rajasthan

On June 30th, a group of around 20 cow vigilantes brutally assaulted a driver and another man with him in Sadulpur, Rajasthan’s Churu District. The victims are named Sonu Banshiram, 29, and Sundar Singh, 35. They both hailed from Haryana and were transporting lemons from Jaipur to Punjab when they were stopped by the vigilantes on the highway. A huge number of the vigilante groups reportedly began chasing the truck after they allegedly received a ‘tip off’. After they got the truck stopped, they dragged the two men out, and beat them brutally. The police have informed the media that they got to know about the incident from a video uploaded online. 

A video of the incident has surfaced which shows the mob armed with sticks mercilessly beating the victims as they lie down helpless on the ground, as per a report in the Times of India.

Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

In Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr, two Muslim brothers were brutally thrashed by a mob after they went to a shop to exchange an item. A video of the incident has come online. It shows the two young boys being brutally beaten mercilessly by the mob. According to report by NewsX, the police has stated that it was the victims that “started” the issue. 

In #UttarPradesh‘s #Bulandshahr, two #Muslim brothers were beaten up by mob when they went to exchange some item at shop of Santlal. The shopkeeper rejected to exchange it and the victims Faizan and Tazeem opposed. They were beaten up. The police arrested the victims. pic.twitter.com/w2ojtcrskl

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 3, 2024

Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh

In Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, a 25-year-old doctor was brutally assaulted by a mob on June 30. The attack took place when Dr. Istekhar was returning home from his clinic and stopped to get petrol at a petrol pump when he was attacked. More attackers arrived to beat the doctor in a black car even as a passer-by tried to help. 

Dr. Istekhar has stated that he does not know the attacker’s. Around six people have been reportedly been detained after the incident, one of whom was identified as a “BJP Metropolitan President” based on a sticker on his bike, as per a report by The Observer Post. 

An FIR has been filed against Vasu, Rachit Sharma, Abhishek Chaudhary, Vipin Saini, Ranjit Thakur, Gaurav Rohila, and others. 

On June 30, Dr. Istekhar, 25, was brutally assaulted by a mob while on his way home from his clinic in Asalatpura, Moradabad. The attack occurred after he refuelled at a petrol pump near the Double Gate Bridge. The mob stopped him, verified his identity, and then subjected him to… pic.twitter.com/OoypTU7vN4

— The Observer Post (@TheObserverPost) July 4, 2024

Koderma, Jharkhand

As per journalist Meer Faisal, an Imam named Maulana Sahabuddin from Basramo Turkabad in the Barkatha area, was lynched by a mob in Koderma district on July 1st. A resident of Raghuniyadih, Sahabuddin was returning home on his bike when a mob surrounded him and accused him of hitting a woman on the road. After this accusation, they brutally beat him to death, hitting him viciously.

News has been arriving that the police is saying that this was not a case of mob lynching, but was an accident. However, the family are saying it was clearly a case of mob lynching and have named one man who is local leader Suraj Das as an accused as well. 

Khordha, Odisha

A mob arrived and forced their way into a house and seized meat from a fridge in the home on June 16. This incident had taken place only shortly after Eid al-Adha and a viral video has surfaced showing a group of cow vigilantes forcefully entering a Muslim household. The mob, chanting slogans of “Jai Shri Ram,” as they entered and raided the family’s refrigerator, seizing all the meat and the refrigerator itself on mere suspicion that it contained beef. 

Violence broke out between two communities in Balasore, Odisha, during a protest against animal slaughter on Eid ul Adha. A curfew has been imposed after ten persons were reportedly injured. pic.twitter.com/PEeznbt9RB

— Meer Faisal (@meerfaisal001) June 20, 2024

Bhirbhum, West Bengal

In Noapara, Birbhum, West Bengal, another case took place after Eid, where a Muslim man named Tufan Sekh was brutally assaulted. He was surrounded by a mob and accused of dropping meat near a Hindu temple. After this, he was attacked by the mob and was seriously injuried. As per a report in The Observer Post, he was also tied to a pole for an hour after which the local police later rescued him and got him medical treatment. 

The report also states that the Association for Protection of Civil Rights is looking in to the incident and providing legal support to Tufan and his family. Further, a FIR has been registered against unknown people by the police who have arrested around 9-10 people, though their identities have not been released yet.

A person on ground told the Observer Post, “He was riding his bike with one of our family members, and was on his way to a relative’s house to distribute the sacrificial meat, one of the meat packets must have dropped out on the road from the main bag. My brother made a U-turn to retrieve it and was immediately surrounded by local residents. They accused him of deliberately throwing it in front of the Hindu temple to hurt their sentiments. This accusation makes no sense; if it had been his intention, he wouldn’t have returned to search for the missing packet.”

Medak, Telangana

The unrest in Medak began when the management of Minhaj Ul Uloom madrasa in Medak bought cattle to sacrifice ahead of Bakr Eid and a mob came and attacked the madrasa, which left several people injured in the process. The violence also escalated when the mob also went and attacked a nearby hospital where the injured were being treated. The mob, reportedly also pelted stones. The Medak police had arrested BJP figures who reportedly played key roles in the communal violence that erupted in Medak town on June 15. Those detained included BJP Medak district president Gaddam Srinivas, BJP Medak town president M. Nayam Prasad, the BJYM president, and seven others. Medak BJP MP Raghunandan Rao also appeared in court on June 20 for the cow vigilantes allegedly involved in the violence.

Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh

In the early hours of June 12, an Imam named Maulana Akram was shot dead by unidentified people in Bhainsia village, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. Akram who has been a resident of Rampur district, had been supervising the Badi Masjid in the village for the past 15 years. 

Police reported that he suffered a bullet injury to his chest. Villagers mentioned that Akram had no known enemies, and after receiving the information, the police arrived at the scene and found a 312-bore pistol nearby. Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Bhadoria has told the media that they have started investigating.

Akram is survived by his wife and six children. According to sources, he was sleeping when he received a phone call at 4 am. After stepping outside, he was shot by an unknown person and died on the spot. The attacker then fled the scene.

A mosque’s imam, #MaulanaAkram, was shot dead in #UttarPradesh‘s Moradabad in the early hours of Tuesday, June 11. Unidentified miscreants called Maulana Akram outside his house at 4 AM. in the morning and shot him in the chest.

“Maulana Akram, the Imam of the #Bhensia village’s… pic.twitter.com/yZHe8AnpiG

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) June 11, 2024

Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh

As per a report in Maktoob Media, on June 12, Christian families in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, were reportedly attacked by a Hindutva mob. They were also given an ultimatum to denounce their religion within 10 days.

 The violent incident took place in Bade Paroda village, under Badanji Police Station. Three victims were hospitalised after the incident. 

As per the report in Maktoob Media, the lawyer of the injured has stated that all the attacks happening in the area since 2023 were aided by local police, and has also been forcing the families to flee their village.

One of the injured suffered a broken leg, according to the lawyer. Since 2023, Bade Paroda has been reportedly a tense area for violence against Christians, with Christian minorities often targeted by violence and intimidation.

Kaithal, Haryana

In Haryana’s Kaithal, a Sikh man was beaten by unknown people who also called him a Khalistani, as per a report in the Times of India. The Haryana Police have so far arrested two people in connection with the assault.

Following the incident on June 10, the Kaithal police created a five-member Special Investigation Team to investigate the incident. The arrested men have been identified as Ishu who is a resident of Singwal village in Jind, and Sunil who is from Shergarh village, according to Superintendent of Police Upasana.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the Congress, and the Shiromani Akali Dal have all condemned the attack and demanded immediate action against the perpetrators. The police complaint states that the victim was waiting at a railway-level crossing in Kaithal when the incident took place on the evening of June 10.

Meerut, Uttar Pradesh

On June 9, Mohammed Umar Qureshi, a Muslim vendor from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, was attacked by a mob in Bangana town, Himachal Pradesh. Members of the Bajrang Dal, Shiv Sena, and BJP reportedly beat him, stole his money, and forced him to chant Jai Shri Ram. 

Qureshi, who was working as a street vendor, told about the horrifying incident in a video that went viral on social media. He said the attackers asked for his Aadhaar card and permission letter, which he provided, but they still assaulted him despite that. After this he was taken to a closed shop, where 10-15 people continued beating him and looted his belongings.

According to Qureshi, the attack happened because he is Muslim. Furthermore, when he tried to file a complaint at the police station, the police refused to accept it. The attackers also laughed at him and confidently stated that they had the support of the state police and government.

Pune, Maharashtra

In Maharashtra’s Pune, members of the Christian community were thrashed by Bajrang Dal men over the suspicion of religious conversion. The incident reportedly took place in Chikhali village of Pune district, Maharashtra. A video of the incident has been widely circulated and can show the alleged members of the radical Hindutva outfit attacking the victims.

In #Maharashtra‘s #Pune, members of the #Christian community were thrashed by the #BajrangDal men over the suspicion of religious conversion. pic.twitter.com/blYE6TTOkq

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) June 13, 2024

Unnao, Uttar Pradesh

In Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, a Hindutva mob created a huge ruckus on June 7 over a container transporting buffalo meat from West Bengal to Mumbai. They were claiming it was cow meat. Following the uproar, a sample of the meat was sent to a lab for testing, which confirmed that it was indeed buffalo meat. A series of such similar mob vigilante attacks over trucks have taken place over the month. 

Raipur, Chhattisgarh

In Raipur, Chhattisgarh, two Muslim men, Chand Miya and Guddu Khan, were beaten to death reportedly by cow vigilantes on June 6 while transporting buffaloes in a truck. Their bodies were found in the Mahanadi River. A third man, Saddam Khan was also critically injured and receiving treatment in a hospital, only to succumb to his injuries a short while later. 

The incident took place when a group of youths began following it, eventually surrounding it on the Mahanadi Bridge. Reports indicate that the attackers laid spikes on the road to stop the truck, then forcefully pulled out the occupants and assaulted them. In a desperate attempt to escape, one of the victims jumped into the river.

On June 25, it was reported that one Raja Agrawal was arrested in connection with the lynching of three Muslim men. Interestingly, on Facebook, Agrawal described himself reportedly as a leader of BJP’s youth wing, BJP Yuva Morcha.

Raja Agrawal was arrested in connection with lynching of three #Muslim men in #Chhattisgarh‘s #Raipur. On Facebook, Agrawal has described himself as a leader of #BJP‘s youth wing #BJPYuvaMorcha. pic.twitter.com/A1u8KDAorU

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) June 25, 2024

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The post June 2024: 10 violent attacks against cattle transporters and 14 cases of communal violence in various states across India appeared first on SabrangIndia.

In the one-minute video, Paul can be seen spewing violent and abusive content against Muslims and their religion. His comments, filled with cuss words and hate speech, had caused widespread outrage. The video also quickly went viral and got concerned responses from the local community.

On Sunday, June 23, after these derogatory remarks on social media local people protested on Sunday and blocked National Highway 17 as demands were made for his arrest.

They blocked the highway in protest and demanded Paul’s arrest. The protest even got was lathi-charged. Officers resorted to lathi-charge and even fired shots to disperse the crowd. Several people, including police personnel, were injured. Some people have also been arrested.

Meanwhile, the main accused involved in the incident, Emon Paul was arrested by the Kokrajhar police. This got a welcome response from the local residents as well as officials of All BTR Minority Students Union (ABMSU).

It should be noted that in the Bagribari region, both Hindu and Muslim communities have been living in harmony for many years.

But this unexpected event has naturally made people worried. Additional police forces have been deployed in the area since the incident. It is notable that such an incident happened soon after the state’s CM’s reportedly hateful remarks against the minority community in a recent statement to the media on June 22, 2024. He called the Muslims in Assam ‘Bangladeshi’ and stated that they are only good at ‘communal activity.’ The BJP chief minister has been notorious for his vitriolic speech against minorities, and even has made statement support casteism in the past, as per reports. Recently, Sarma was also in the news for using 58 crores out of public funds to fund his air travel to and from weddings attended by him.

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The post After politicians, hate speech catches on among citizens in Assam appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh

A Dalit youth in Mainpuri, while working on his own land, was attacked by a group of men. The authorities have registered a case involving assault and harassment against the Dalit community under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. As per reports, the police is now searching for the culprits who are currently absconding. The police have filed a complaint against one Munshi Khan and his associates. 

The victim has said in his complaint that on June 9 he was working on his plot when a couple of men came and started swearing at him. When he stood up to them, they started threatening to take his life and began to beat him. 

On June 7th, it was reported that a group of Dalit women protesting against liquor shops in Uttar Pradesh’s Mainpuri were beaten by the shop owners. The women were also subjected to casteist slurs and also threats to their life. 

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

On June 2nd, another horrifying incident took place in Lucknow, where a man urinated on the face of a Dalit labourer while he was taking an afternoon nap. The incident was even shot on camera and uploaded online after which it quickly went viral on social media.

The victim, Rajkumar Rawat, had been resting after a day’s work when the accused allegedly urinated on his face to wake him up. Rawat’s family has written a complaint to the police, who say that the investigation in the matter has started. 

This was the third incident from June reported from Uttar Pradesh. As per statistics, UP bears 28% of the total number of crimes committed against Dalit people across all over India. In 2022, a total of 57,428 crimes were reported to have been committed against Dalits in UP alone. 

Morena, Madhya Pradesh

In Morena, Madhya Pradesh, a Dalit sarpanch was reportedly tied to a tree and beaten. After the violence, the man was forced to flee his native village. The sarpanch of Koutharkalan panchayat has reportedly filed a complaint at the Porsa police station on Thursday. He had reportedly faced harassment over the past two years. The attackers had pressured him to leave his position and hand over his digital account details. However, after he refused to follow their demands, the goons allegedly took him to the outskirts of Koutharkalan, tied him to a tree, and brutally thrashed him, according to PTI. 

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RSS deceit on constitutional reservation and Dalits in general

The post Hate Watch: violence against Dalits fails to get attention appeared first on SabrangIndia.

According to a report released by a Washington-based research group, India Hate Lab incidents of anti-Muslim hate speech in India have increased over the time. In 2023, they increased by 62% during the second half of 2023 compared to the first half of the year. The report also documented a total of 668 hate speech incidents targeting Muslims in 2023. Of these, 255 incidents occurred in the first half of the year, while 413 took place in the latter half. The United Nations has warned that unchecked hate speech can lead to actual violence. Yet despite that, these incidents continue across the country. 

Wanaparthy, Telangana

In a polytechnic college, a young Muslim boy was beaten by six fellow students on his way to offer his daily prayers one evening. The student, Mohammed Masum, a 19-year-old student at the college could be seen on a video posted by Hate Detectors, bleeding and heavily injured. The incident took place at the KDR Govt Polytechnic College in Wanaparthy district, Telangana on April 24.  Masum was reportedly stopped by the attackers, who included fellow students one of which was named Lokesh, who not only threw his skull cap on the ground and stomped on it and beat the young student up. 

Masum managed to attract the attention of other students by calling out for help after which his attackers ran away. He was later admitted to a hospital by the mosque’s imam for treatment. The Wanaparthy police have reportedly started an investigation into the matter and have already arrested one suspect linked to the assault. 

Vadodara, Gujarat

On April 20, late at night at around 2:15 am in Vadodara, Gujarat, Mohammed Faizan Amiruddin Shaikh, a 26-year-old street food vendor, was beaten and assaulted allegedly by police officials. As per a report, the incident unfolded after Faizan had a disagreement with the officers, leading to a violent altercation.

In response to the police’s abuse, Faizan stood in front of their PCR van, blocking its path following which a crowd began to gather. The police personnel responded by driving forward and reportedly pushed Faizan back nearly 100 feet until he fell under the van. 

Faizan is currently in critical condition and is receiving medical treatment at a private hospital. Consequently, the three policemen—Mohammad Salim, Raghuvir Bharatbhai, and driver Kishan Parmar—have been suspended from duty, and a case has been filed against them. Faizan himself has been subjected to an FIR by the police at the Sayajigunj police station. The X, previously Twitter, page of Hate Detectors uploaded a video that showed a young man grievously injured and unconscious in the hospital. 

The  Assistant Commissioner of Police A Division DJ Chavda told the Indian Express, “The personnel in the PCR van used the needed physical force and he has been injured. Faizan too attacked the police personnel on duty. We have registered two FIR’s and are probing the incident.”

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

In another distressing incident, a police official from the UP Police was allegedly caught on video violently beating a young boy clad in kurta-pajama in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad. The video footage captured a Inspector Bhanu Prakash was seen violently dragging a 14-year-old driver by his hair and subjecting him to merciless beating. 

Following public outcry over the video, the police has told the public that appropriate action would be taken against the officer. Authorities shared on X that the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Wave City had been tasked with initiating an investigation into the matter.  Hate Detectors reported the young boy to be named Sohail. 

E-rickshaw driver Sohail was brutally manhandled by police inspector Bhanu Prakash in #UttarPradesh‘s #Ghaziabad. pic.twitter.com/q1PlOMHmIB

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) April 24, 2024

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The post Hate Watch: Muslim college student beaten by fellow students in Telangana appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Since the announcement of the seven-phase schedule for the Lok Sabha polls on March 16, the Model Code of Conduct has come into effect. This further rigorously puts in place avowedly strict guidelines for campaigners, parties and their candidates. As a part of the effort  to track and counter hate, Citizens for Justice and Peace has been rigorously tracking provocative and inflammatory speeches being delivered across India, especially –but not only–during election time.   

Compiled below is our HateWatch Monitor’s listicle of the instigating speeches delivered in the past fortnight, between April 8 and April 23. The hate offenders (speakers) are leaders from the far-right, including Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, who have either singled out and stigmatised the Muslim community and culture in their speeches, or used religious symbols including places of worship to garner voter support. All these individually and together violate the Representation of Peoples Act, 1951 and are defined as “corrupt practices” under this law. None have been rigorously called out or prosecuted as a compliant Election Commission of India (ECI) turns a blind eye. A common theme in these speeches were exhortations to violence against Muslims and for the destruction of Mosques, with the objective of converting India into a Hindu nation. 

1. Location: Sirohi, Rajasthan

Date: April 23

BJP leader Mahant Balaknath Yogi delivers communal speech using Muslims to attack the incumbent CM of Rajasthan, namely Ashok Gehlot. He brought in the topic of cow smuggling while defending cow vigilantism.

Speech: 

“Last time, appeasement politics took place in Rajasthan. You must remember the Jaipur incident and the way in which these people slit the throat of a Ram follower and killed him brutally. On the other hand, these people gave a compensation 50 lakhs to someone who was killed in a road accident. Who gave them [Congress party] the right to give money earned by the people of Rajasthan to others in this way?”

“So many sisters and daughters had their honours snatched. So many innocents were killed brutally. No money was given to us. While these people go on giving 50 lakhs to road accident victims of a particular community.”

“In another alleged incidents, a cow smuggler was killed in Alwar. Even when the incident took place in another state, our CM [incumbent CM Ashok Gehlot] had gone to their house to give them money. The deceased had multiple cases of cow slaughter and sow smuggling against him. They went and gave 25 lakhs to them. do you want to support such a man?”

The post can be viewed here:

2. Location: Budhwar Peth, Nashik, Maharashtra 

Date: April 22

Far-right social media influencer Harsha Thakur delivered a provocative speech against Muslims, peddling conspiracy theories and advocating call to arms. As per Hindutva Watch, the event at which the said speech was delivered had been organized by Sakal Hindu Samaj. 

“Learn how to take up arms. Anyone can wear a Burqa. If you leave your religion, not your caste but your religion, then you will be cut into 35 pieces. You will then only be found in suitcase or fridge. Read your religious texts and take up arms. Become hardcore and loyal towards you own religion.”

The post can be viewed here:

3. Location: Faridabad, Haryana

Date: April 14

Gau Raksha Dal leader Bittu Bajrangi delivered an inflammatory speech targeting Muslims of Mewat. Accusing them of being involved in crimes and cyber frauds, the speaker who is himself out on bail, peddled many anti-Muslim conspiracy theories.

The speech:

“They say that they are Mewatis (Muslim residents of Mewat). And we know that that they are Mewati as all of the terrorists, thieves and thugs are from there only. All the cyber frauds that are happening are from there only. They cannot keep themselves clean how ill they clean the surroundings.”

“This Maulana from Delhi, belonging to Jamiat-ul-Hind, has openly offered 100 acre plots of lands to those who conspire against Hindus, more to the ones that do more damage and kill more people.”

“In Mewat, 1500 cows are getting slaughtered every day, who is responsible for that?their Muslim minister call those who protect cows as goons. Those shameless Hindus who live there also hear that Muslim minister say it. Had it been someone like me, I would hold the neck of that man and throw him out.”

The post can be viewed here:

4. Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Date: April 12

Communal speech targeting Muslims delivered was delivered by an unknown speaker at Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP) event where anti-Muslim sentiments were spread. 

The speech:

“We need to be aware. Ask those who live in a Muslim dominated society how important awareness is. Ask those who live in Kashmir or Hyderabad. Pick up a newspaper and you will read the crimes that these Maulanas are doing. We need to be aware about our history.”

The post can be viewed here:

5. Location: Moshi, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra

Date: April 10

Hindu Rashtra Sena Chief Dhananjay Desai, a frequent hate offender, indulges in fear mongering against Muslims.

The speech:

“Chanting of this Swami name is still going on; it was also done earlier in Sindh Punjab and Bengal. But now Bengal has become Bangladesh. Sindh Punjab has become Pakistan. And Kashmir which is our god land has become Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.”

“Here also some scheming is going on to create some horrible situation. Kashmir Files is a true incident that haunts Kashmir. The producer said that anyone who thinks this is extreme depiction of the situation should go and file lawsuits. I have made the entire film like a documentary.”

“All the mothers and sisters have come here; the devotees of Swami have come. Swami who recites are devotees. Because unless the mother is a devotee, without a good womb, without good blood, a Swami devotee cannot be born. Aren’t you a devotee of Swami, this is not just your devotion, your parents also deserve it.”

The post can be viewed here:

6. Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Date: April 9

Sudarshan News Editor-in-Chief Suresh Chavhanke delivered an anti-Muslim hate speech. he used slurs, raised calls for violence and taking up of arms, and even demanded changing the name of Ahmedabad city of Gujarat. While promoting anti-Muslim conspiracy theories, he called for law for population growth of Muslims.

The speech:

“If you want to ensure that your children do not have to indulge in a blood bath in the future, we need to let play with sticks and rods today.”

“If these K***h M***e (anti-Muslim slur) have the audacity to say that they will demolish a temple eve as we have Modi as our PM, Yogi as our CM and Amit Shah as our HM, just think of what they will do in the dark times ahead.”

“Those who will limit themselves to only keeping a pen in their hands will regret it. In the future, they will have to bow down to these Muslims. It is essential that we pick arms. We need to keep arms in one hand and a pen in the other.”

“Keep in mind that even one rupee donated to a green chaddar will result in a white chaddar for you.”

“Why do we keep referring to this heritage city as Ahmedabad? Do we want to be introduced by “Ahmad?” we should start calling it as Karnavati.”

The Hindu population rate is 1.3, while the Muslim population rate is 2.9. the Hindu population is decreasing. In a few years, Hindustan will not remain Hindustan. our ancestors dedicated their lives to save this nation, but will it remain free in the coming few years? To save our nation, we need to introduce a policy on population control.”

“We need to stop this whole programme of 4 wives and 52 kids.” 

The post can be viewed here:

7. Location: Barmer, Rajasthan

Date: April 8

Religious preacher Dhirendra Krishna Shastri promoted anti-Muslim conspiracy theory of “love jihad” and forced religious conversion. He also raised calls for destruction of mosques in Kashi and Mathura.

The speech:

“I hope my Hindu brother to ensure that no Hindu converts. I would also suggest my Hindu sisters to keep their eyes and ears open, these people come wear Kalava as well. Do not trust them at all, do not get trapped into “Love-Jihad”.

“Till now, only Ram has been welcomed back. Ayodhya and Kashi are just trailers, Mathura is still yet to happen.”

“Earlier we use to say ‘Lord Ram we will come and make the temple’, and now we say to Lord Krishna that we will feed him cream there only”.

“I want to make it clear that if there is an attack on our religion, I will give a fitting response to the same. I am a Hindu and I will only talk about Hinduism.”

The post can be viewed here:

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The post Elections 2024: The lead up to the first two phases of voting have seen far right leaders deliver anti-Muslim hate speech across India appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have once again, witnessed distressing instances of caste-based violence, shedding light on the pervasive discrimination that continues to grip society. The two separate incidents of attacks on Dalit students took place this month and have brought the spotlight on caste-based violence in Tamil Nadu, India.

Karur, Tamil Nadu

A young boy and his grandmother were attacked last week in Karur. According to the police, the 14-year-old Dalit boy is alleged to have engaged in a verbal altercation with an intermediate caste boy, resulting in a brawl aboard a government school bus. The altercation took a more sinister turn the following day, as the 20 boys appeared at the Dalit boy’s residence, assaulting him and his grandmother, identified as Kaliyammal, according to the Indian Express.

These people have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 294 B (related to obscene acts) and 323 (pertaining to voluntarily causing hurt). Additionally, they face charges under the Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act and the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, reflecting the gravity of their actions.

The Dalit boy, in a police complaint, accused the group of several boys of attacking him and his grandmother. Two individuals, Ilango and Manikantan, along with two minors, were taken into police custody. Meanwhile, the Dalit boy and his grandmother, who has been his sole caretaker following the loss of both his parents, were swiftly transferred to the Karur Government Hospital for medical attention. However, the police has alleged that no attack took place.

This unsettling occurrence marks the second instance of Dalit students reportedly being targeted by students from the intermediate caste. Earlier, in Nanguneri, Tirunelveli district, another group of intermediate caste boys assaulted a Dalit boy, leaving his younger sister injured as well.

Valliyoor, Tamil Nadu 

In a separate case from the state, the Tamil Nadu Police apprehended six minor boys on Friday for their alleged involvement in an attack on a 17-year-old Dalit student. The victim, who had complained of harassment by three of the boys to the school management, was reportedly attacked with sickles. The victim’s sister also suffered injuries in the assault, according to India Today.

The victim and his sister were immediately rushed to a hospital, where they are reportedly out of danger. In response to the incident, the victim’s family staged a protest outside the hospital, urging law enforcement to take swift action against the attackers.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin condemned the attack, saying “The incident in Nanguneri is shocking. This shows how deeply caste poison has permeated even amongst the young students.” The Chief Minister also offered reassurance to the victims’ mother, promising comprehensive support to ensure the continuation of their education. 

All six accused individuals belong to the Maravar community, and two of them were classmates of the victim at a school in Valliyoor. The victim had endured casteist slurs, extortion, and demeaning tasks assigned by the accused boys, compelling him to skip from school for several days. Despite assurances from his class teacher and the headmistress that the issue would be addressed, the situation escalated dramatically.

The assailants, armed with sickles, forcibly entered the victim’s residence, leading to a violent altercation during which the victim’s sister attempted to shield him. The police promptly detained the suspects and their associates. The accused minors have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. 

A fact-finding study conducted on-site by Evidence, a Dalit rights organisation, concluded that the assailants had allegedly harboured intentions to cause harm. The organisation’s report stated that the attackers were armed with a sickle, with three of them reportedly using it in the assault.

Tragically, this incident is not isolated. The Deccan Herald reports that according to Kathir, the leader of the NGO ‘Evidence,’ between November 2022 and January 2023, nearly 450 cases were registered under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and thus highlight the distressing prevalence of such violence.

These disturbing incidents have highlighted the urgent need for addressing caste-based violence and discrimination in Tamil Nadu. The events have also prompted conversations about the safety and security of Dalit students within the state’s educational institutions. As investigations continue, the spotlight remains on the imperative to ensure a just and inclusive society that safeguards the rights and dignity of all its citizens.

Satara, Maharashtra 

Adding to this grim narrative is the recent incident in Satara, Maharashtra, where a Dalit woman faced public humiliation and assault. Her only “crime” was daring to demand the return of money she was reportedly owed.

The woman was from Maan Taluka in Satara and had lent money to a group of individuals, but upon requesting repayment, she was subjected to a brutal attack by four assailants in Panavan village, Maan Taluka. The disturbing incident was caught on video. The attackers used sharp weapons in the assault and abused her as they beat her brutally in public view. Subsequently, the police responded by lodging a complaint, resulting in the arrest of two suspects. However, two more culprits remain at large, prompting an ongoing search by the police. The victim sustained severe injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital. The case has been registered under the SC/ST Atrocities Act, with IPC 354 also included in the charges, according to Sameer Shaikh, Superintendent of Police, Satara.

These incidents of violence are stark reminders of the deeply rooted caste-based discrimination that continues to plague society across the length and breadth of the nation. While legal actions are a step toward justice, they also underline the pressing need for systemic changes, education, and awareness campaigns to dismantle the entrenched biases that perpetuate such violence. 

Dalit women thrashed, molested in full public view in Satara Maharashtra

Her crime? She was asking people to return the they borrowed from her
Atrocity act filed against accused seen in the video pic.twitter.com/jVacr969ww

— Ravi Ratan (@scribe_it) August 28, 2023

Parbatsar, Rajasthan

Two Dalit youths tragically lost their lives, and another was injured in a devastating incident that occurred in Ranasar village of the Didwana-Kuchaman district. The incident transpired on Monday night when a high-speed Bolero jeep collided with their motorcycle. The victims, identified as Rajuram and Chunni Lal from Bidiyad village in Parbatsar, in Rajasthan’s Nagaur, were on their way back home after attending a religious fair. Reportedly, a according to Free Press Journal, during a halt at a hotel along the way, an altercation erupted between them and a group of men. The situation escalated, resulting in the group chasing the victims and deliberately ramming their Bolero jeep into the youths’ motorcycle, leading to the untimely demise of Rajuram and Chunni Lal. Another individual, Kishnaram, also sustained injuries during the incident. The police have launched an investigation to apprehend the culprits, and the family members of the deceased are urging for a CBI inquiry to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into this distressing incident. According to Times Now, the vehicle repeatedly crushed the legs of the victims to the point where there legs were discovered separate from the body. 

According to CJP, the statistics presented in the NCRB report tell us that there was a 1.2% rise in crimes against Scheduled Castes in 2021, with the number increasing from 50,291 cases in 2020 to 50,900 cases, making it a grim picture for the situation of Dalits rights in India.

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The post Continued Surge of Violence against Dalits Spans Maharashtra to Tamil Nadu appeared first on SabrangIndia.

In a video appearing on Twitter on the August 20, 2023, the victim can be seen speaking as he lies grievously injured in a hospital bed. Shahid, the young victim, summoned the physical strength to recount the terrifying events that transpired on what was supposed to be an ordinary evening. The incident, which took place in the bustling streets of Ghatkopar, unfolded with a chilling sequence of events.

Location: Ghatkopar, Mumbai, Maharashtra

A Muslim pizza delivery boy was brutally attacked and subjected to anti-Muslim slurs by a group of far-right goons. pic.twitter.com/PZ6j273ZED

— HindutvaWatch (@HindutvaWatchIn) August 19, 2023

A group of men called Shahid to a corner under the guise of asking for a lighter. Suspecting nothing out of the ordinary, Shahid proceeded. He was called ‘Aurangzeb ki aulaad‘ after which they hit him from the back and started a relentless assault. He says they tried to force him into saying the names of “some deities”, however he didn’t say them and they proceeded to beat him brutally with sticks and hands.  Without warning, the situation escalated into a violent frenzy. Shahid, taken by surprise, was struck from behind with a force that left him disoriented. The assailants launched into a relentless barrage of blows, causing Shahid to fear for his life. Shahid also stated that they first called him to as a corner and began asking his name. After the assault, the four attackers ran away.

According to Free Press Journal, using CCTV footage and witness accounts, the police has arrested 4 men. While the family noes it to be an incident of a communal nature, the senior police inspector of Pant Nagar station, refuted such claims, saying that all were under the influence of alcohol and it was a ‘light matter’.

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The post Brutal attack on young Muslim boy in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar appeared first on SabrangIndia.

In its order issued on June 27, the NBDSA stated, “NBDSA has decided that a warning be issued to the broadcaster (Channel: Times Now Navbharat) directing it to be more careful in the future.” NBDSA also directed the broadcaster to “remove the video of the said broadcast, if still available on the website of the channel, or Youtube, and remove all hyperlinks, including access which should be confirmed to the NBDSA in writing within 7 days of the Order.”

The NBDSA held that the broadcaster violated the, “Specific guidelines covering Reportage related to Racial and Religious Harmony” which states that 9.1 Racial and religious stereotyping should be avoided; 9.2 Caution should be exercised in reporting content which denigrates or is likely to offend the sensitivities of any racial or religious group or that may create religious intolerance or disharmony.

The NBDSA had also held that “There would have been no issue if the broadcaster had factually reported on the illegalities in the running of some madrassas. However, in the impugned broadcast, the findings of the survey conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Government were used to allege that ‘Madrassa Jihad’ was taking place in the country, which created an impression that every madrassa is a breeding ground for terrorism and activities of similar nature. The tilt given to the findings of the survey was not only misleading but a violation of the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards.”

The entire order may be read here:

Brief Background of the Case:

On November 11, 2022, a debate segment was aired by the Times Now Navbharat, titled “’Madrasa Jihad’ पर बड़ा खुल़ास़ा, मजहबी त़ालीम क़ा ‘491 तंत्र”. The debate, hosted by Naina Yadav and Rakesh Pandey, was based on a “survey” carried out by the UP government on Madrassas in certain districts of the State. Reportedly, it was found that Bahraich city, which is close to the Nepal border, has 792 madrassas out of which 491 were found to be running “without license”.

Over this news, the channel held a debate and declared that something called “madrassa Jihad” was taking place in Bahraich.

In the complaint sent to the NBDSA on December 5, 2022, CJP had raised “concern over the manner in which or the approach chosen to deal with this data. The complainant had stated that by using terms like “Madrassa Jihad” and “the ‘M’ Factor” the channel has resorted to cheap tactics to spread communal tension and hatred which is unbecoming of a news channel”. The complaint had also pointed out that the channel used the “jihad” trope to further its communal narrative. “The trend of using the suffix of ‘jihad’ to propagate their communally divisive narrative has caught traction in the mainstream news media. The moment any news wherein a person from Muslim Community is involved, news channels rush to label it as some kind of Jihad,” the complaint stated.

Related:

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The post CJP Victory! NBDSA delivers order in favour of CJP, directs removal of impugned video aired by broadcaster appeared first on SabrangIndia.