Education

Yoga Cleanses Minds of Ill Will, Conflicts & Envy

Happy soul, fresh mind and a healthy body – all three can be achieved with yoga! Dr Aniruddh Subhedar On June 21 last year when Prime Minister Narendra Modi led ninth International Yoga Day celebrations at United Nations headquarters in New York, it marked a significant shift in Bharat’s global image- from being seen as a “backward third world country of snake charmers” to a leader in philosophical and spiritual pursuits for the global communities. Bharat’s wisdom has contributed big to global order for millennia. And, today, it has so much more to offer through yoga, Ayurveda, alternative life styles in sync with environment. And, it’s only natural that Yoga has become its most popular and globally accepted brand ambassador. Yoga, by its very nature, has a universal appeal and application that puts individuals on path of spiritual self-realization as well as physical well-being. What is Yoga? Yoga is identified with various asanas (postures) and physical exercises which is just a small aspect of the entire scientific offer. Yogic philosophy is part of six orthodox Indian schools of thought, alongside Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, Samkhya, and Vedanta. These are called Astika darshanas as they all consider Vedas as the authority. Each offers a unique perspective to the world of spirituality and interpretation of the Vedas, the fountainhead of Indian civilization. What makes Yoga different and popular is its relevance to both the masses and elite. It’s in Mimamsa and Nyaya that we find deepest and intellectually rigorous philosophical musings. Yoga, on the other hand, reaches spiritual heights as any other darshan or vision while offering practical applications accessible to everyone and asanas are its most popular form. Worldwide, yoga is practised today is just a set of physical and breathing exercises. Those that delve deeper into practicing Yoga follow higher levels such as dhyana or meditation that can rightly be called India’s gift to the world. The word “Yoga” means “to add” or “to unify”. Yoga teaches union of individual consciousness thereby forging perfect harmony between mind and body, human being and nature. As Maharshi Patanjali propounded in his ‘Yoga Sutra’ योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः (Yoga controls fluctuations / wanderings of the mind). Yoga trains a person to regulate one’s mind, thoughts and achieving spiritual heights that Bhakti saints describe as “unification with God.” Physical fitness is just first step in this noble endeavour, ultimate goal is unification. This higher goal is achieved through forms of meditation, guiding a person to self-realization. Meditation is not only significant to the Vedic lifestyle but central to non-Vedic Buddhist and Jain philosophies. Siddharth became “Buddha,” the enlightened one, through power of meditation. His disciples spread meditation far and distant places. Etymologically, “Zen” meditation of Japan originates from Sanskrit word “dhyana” (meditation). Thus, Bharat’s dhyana travelled across the world, becoming spiritual foundation for many nations. Roots of Yoga can be traced to Vedic texts and we find its mention in Katha Upanishad. Traditionally, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras written in the early centuries of the CE, if not before, is considered most authoritative text discussing and throwing light on nuances of Yogic philosophy. It propounds the famous Ashtanga (eight limbs of Yoga): Yama (abstinence), Niyama (observances), Asana (posture), Pranayama (controlled breathing), Pratyahara (withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption, an advanced stage of meditation). These eight limbs of Yoga are not limited to ascetics but followed in varying degrees by laypeople. It makes Yoga an all-encompassing philosophy that one can follow in sync with their capabilities. Some stop at physical exercises while others become Yogis, lifelong devotees.. This intrinsic, all-encompassing nature of Yoga is evident from its presence in both orthodox texts and unorthodox sects. One of the most famous is “Nath Sampradaya” whose ascetics are called “Yogis.” Currently, its largest centre is in the city of Gorakhpur, India, though it had major presence at Tilla Jogian (Mound of Yogis) in Pakistan. The thriving centre could not survive onslaught of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and it is now abandoned. Nath Yogis have significantly influenced life and culture of society. Nath Yogis consider Bhagwan Shiva as the Adi-Natha (the original/first Natha). Many Hindu texts discuss propound tnature of Yoga. In Bhagavad Gita, Bhagwan Krishna says: योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् (Yoga is a skill in action). Gita calls Bhagwan Shri Krishna as “Yogeshwar” (the Lord of Yoga). Kashmir Shaivism, Shakta sects and famous Brahma-Sutra Bhashya of Adi Shankaracharya contain deep discussions on Yoga. Recent attempts like “Christian Yoga” to de-Hinduize Yoga by separating it from Hindu spirituality are thus dishonest and futile exercises. Unification, Not Domination From times immemorial, world has seen conquerors, both noble and tyrannical, attempting to establish their own rule through domination. Some have succeeded and some did not. Yoga, meaning unification, brings the world together through spiritual upliftment of individuals. It focuses on cleansing minds of ill will, conflicts, and envy. Yoga has always been spread by Indian seers and ascetics. From India, the teachings of Yoga reached ancient China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. In medieval times, scholars like Al-Beruni translated Patanjali’s Yoga-Sutras into Arabic and Persian, though their spread was limited by hostile attitude of Islamic clergy. In modern times, gurus like Swami Vivekananda introduced Indian wisdom and Yoga to the West. Yogis like Paramahansa Yogananda and teachers like BKS Iyenger popularized Yoga in America and Western World. Slowly, Yoga and its concepts are reaching the world not by force or guile but by sheer positive influence. Today, around 300 million people around world practice Yoga in some form. Statistics show that in America alone, number of people practicing Yoga has increased by almost 50 per cent since 2012. Today, around 36 million people practice America has emerged as largest yoga-practicing nation after India. This impact is visible in popular culture too with references to Yogic concepts like Kundalini in the famous Marvel movie Dr. Strange. Positive effects of practicing Yoga are recognized worldwide. Acknowledging its universal appeal, on December 11, 2014, United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga through resolution

Bangladesh Bhutan Geopolitics Leadership Policy Security Sri lanka World

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‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy and Its Innovative ‘SAGAR’

At the President house during swearing-in ceremony of India’s 16th Prime Minister, the country reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its innovative ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. The invitation to neighbouring countries and those in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles, was extended amid the august assembly of dignitaries and demonstrated India’s unwavering commitment to developing strong ties with its maritime neighbours. Vision SAGAR started in 2015, to promote inclusion and adherence to international law while deepening economic and security cooperation, embodies India’s strategic vision for the IOR. Developing marine security capacities among neighbours is a key component of this goal, as it empowers them and ensures a cooperative approach to regional stability and prosperity. SAGAR is easily incorporated into the larger marine policy of India, working in concert with programs such as the Act East Policy, Project Mausam, and Project Sagarmala to advance the country’s approach towards regional providers of security. SAGAR highlights the significance of the Blue Economy and works to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable growth by utilizing the enormous potential of maritime resources. As India takes lead in IOR and is dedicated to creating an atmosphere of mutual respect, collaboration, and prosperity in order to fulfil the goals of all the nations in region. India aspires with SAGAR, the Indian Ocean would be a symbol of prosperity, peace, and advancement, demonstrating the strength of regional cooperation and strategic planning.

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Hindu Manifesto 2024

On Saturday, June 8, the British Hindu community officially unveiled the Hindu Manifesto 2024. A long-overdue manifesto will emphasise a shared commitment to the advancement of not just British Hindus but the entire nation. Rohan GIRI With the United Kingdom’s (UK) general election set for July 4, 2024. British Hindus are at a critical juncture. Due to its historical unwillingness to engage in political discourse, the community frequently regarded politics as a taboo subject. Many people do not vote, whereas some vote without thinking about the long-term consequences for themselves, their community, and the nation at large. According to the 2021 UK Census, British Hindus make up about 1.7% of the UK population, or approximately one million people. Despite their small numbers, their contributions to the British economy are unparalleled. As a community, they are among the top taxpayers, and their contributions to UK’s National Health Service (NHS) are imperative, with a large number of doctors, nurses, engineers, and other professionals. Additionally, Indians employ tens of thousands of individuals. British Hindus are a well-educated community that is self-sufficient, independent, and prosperous. Their commitment to prosperity and the rule of law reflects their extremely low numbers in British prisons, accounting for less than 0.3 percent of the total prisoners. Despite the community’s alignment with British values and society, it has minimal influence in British politics. This arena, where policies are formulated, laws enacted, and narratives established, demands a significant voice to shape the future. Unfortunately, British Hindus are often underrepresented or misrepresented in education, academia, media, and politics, both locally and nationally. They frequently face attacks, vilification, and maligning, with no substantial collective response to defend their interests and set the record straight. The next general election presents a crucial opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts. Parliamentary candidates must understand that British Hindu votes cannot be taken for granted. The community seeks fair representation and recognition of its contributions, highlighting Sanātan Hindu Dharma as an asset to Britain. The next general election presents a crucial opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts. Parliamentary candidates must understand that British Hindu votes cannot be taken for granted. The community seeks fair representation and recognition of its contributions, highlighting Sanātan Hindu Dharma as an asset to Britain. It is time for British Hindus to claim their seat at the table, shaping and influencing the country’s future. This involvement is not just a right but also a duty, or Dharma. The Hindu Manifesto 2024, launched by the British Hindu community, contains seven crucial pledges that the community expects from parliamentary candidates and future governments. These assurances are designed to ensure the protection, promotion, and progress of Hindu values and interests within the broader British society. The Seven Assurances of the Hindu Manifesto UK 2024: “Recognising Anti-Hindu Hate as a Religious Hate Crime: This expectation demands the identification and prosecution of groups and individuals that perpetrate anti-Hindu hatred. Recognising such acts as religious hate crimes will ensure that they are taken appropriately and addressed accordingly. Protecting Places of Hindu Worship: Ensuring the safety and purity of Hindu temples and places of worship is critical. This promise aims to preserve these precious areas from damage and attacks. Access to Fairer Education: This involves advocacy for an education system that accurately represents Hindu culture and contributions, as well as ensuring that textbooks are inclusive and unbiased. Equal Representation and Opportunities for Hindus: This protection aims to address Hindus’ underrepresentation in numerous sectors by struggling for equal opportunities in employment, politics, and other areas. Streamlining Immigration: The need for fair and efficient immigration laws that make it easier for people looking to join family in the UK or contribute to the British economy. Healthcare and Social Care: Encourage and enhance access to healthcare and social care services for Hindus while also addressing their special needs and concerns. Acknowledging and Protecting Dharmic Values: It aims to understand and respect the Hindu Dharmic way of life by consulting with the community while legislating on intra-community issues affecting the UK Hindu community, by facilitating infrastructure for religious ceremonies such as marriage and cremation, by commissioning a memorial for Hindu soldiers who served and died for the UK, and by understanding that the connection between UK Hindus and India (Bharat) is spiritual rather than political.” The Hindu Manifesto is a call to all parliamentary candidates and political parties to engage with and support the Hindu community in their respective areas. It has already received endorsements from various parliamentary candidates who have declared their support for the manifesto and its goals. As the general election approaches, the Hindu Manifesto will act as a guide for British Hindus, reminding them of their ability to shape the political landscape and ensure their community’s interests are reflected and safeguarded. This election is a critical opportunity for British Hindus to establish their presence, demand fair representation, and contribute to determining the future of the UK in a way that recognises and appreciates their substantial contributions. The election is an opportunity for British Hindus to turn their contributions, concerns, and expectations into legitimate political influence. The substantial participation and widespread support for the Hindu Manifesto 2024 can demonstrate to political leaders that the community is a force to be reckoned with, worthy of representation and consideration in policies. The ramifications of this participation will extend far beyond election day, potentially ushering in an era where British Hindus’ voices are fundamental to national conversations, their needs are met, and their values are upheld in the halls of government. (Author: Rohan Giri is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Disinformation Geopolitics Misinformation Security

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Propagating ‘Truth’ That Never Existed!

Both, US and China used devious means to force a tilt, influence outcomes of recently concluded Lok Sabha elections in Bharat Vinod Kumar Shukla Cognitive warfare is the new tool deployed by a few global powers to ensure their continued dominance on others throwing ethics and internationally accepted practices to wind. These powers have attempted suppression of fair practices in election of a government especially in countries where there is a vibrant democracy. Among others, India too faced challenges where democratic process was allegedly tried to be influenced by creating false narratives with help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Social Media influencers. Most of these falsehoods were not only funded by foreign countries but ideas too were generated on foreign soil. Investigations revealed that STOIC, an Israeli company attempted to interfere in Lok Sabha elections by peddling anti-BJP agenda dubbed as ‘Zero Zeno.’ Efforts were made to manipulate public opinion even in Canada, US, Israel, and Ghana. With help of AI, web articles and social media, comments and content were generated and pushed across Instagram, Facebook, and X focusing on criticizing the BJP and praising the Congress. AI was used to create fictional characters and fake social media accounts with specific variables like age, gender and location. Bogus accounts were created to engage people with such posts that gave the impression of genuine audience interaction. China too was actively involved in this disinformation campaign and escalated its campaign for changing the government in India after People’s Liberation Army was humiliated both in Doklam and Galwan Valley. Artificial intelligence was craftily used to construct propaganda content, images and videos targeting parties and politicians opposed to Chinese hegemonic design. Microsoft had cautioned that China was poised to use generative AI to sway elections all across scheduled for this year. Chinese interference is deeply rooted in its expansive ‘influence operations’ (IO) targeting leaders of other countries with its disinformation campaign to undermine leaders by portraying them as weak and vulnerable. Spamouflage Dragon or Dragon Bridge or Storm 1376, a key Chinese disinformation propagator network has been functioning since 2017-18 on social media. Its activities came to notice when around 9,000 Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to this network were shut down by Meta in August 2023. In November 2023, approximately 4,800 fake Chinese social media accounts impersonating Americans were shut down for disseminating narratives designed to polarise public opinion through biased political content ahead of US elections. The same was done in Australia and the Philippines during 2022 elections. Beyond social media, Chinese IO strategies include both overt and covert tactics involving cultivation of assets like local and independent media, influential personalities, political parties, business figures and NGOs. Preference for particular candidates was subtly communicated not through direct diplomatic utterances but via Chinese state-affiliated media and United Front Work Department (UFWD) which is dedicated to exerting overseas influence. On the parallel, investigation on Chinese funding of NewsClick in Bharat is underway and the matter being heard in the court. Chinese objective of meddling in elections is to ensure that elected candidates or parties should adopt a pro-China stance. These disinformation campaigns aim to sway election outcomes by undermining voters’ confidence in candidates not favoured by China. Recent escalation in Chinese disinformation involves leveraging generative AI technology to prepare propaganda images and videos. These AI-generated materials target parties and politicians critical to China. Initially this technology was used during presidential elections of Taiwan to undermine Taiwan’s democratic framework, promoting a pro-unification narrative, and weakening Taiwan’s ties with the US. In fact, Chinese disinformation campaigns on the national security of various countries have prompted many to ban popular Chinese social media platform TikTok. But, reports indicate that China continues to meddle in foreign elections to emerge as a global power. Besides China and Israel, millions of dollars were spent to impact elections in India. Western interference from European Union and US too were in the game. Media outlets with tacit, explicit funding and a few funded by organizations with background in peddling agenda based narratives through stories on ‘random WhatsApp groups’ by creating heroes out of Pak-sponsored stooges. Recent elections in India witnessed the most intrusive foreign reporting with overwhelming negative and brazen reports about ruling dispensation. All this was done to have a Parliament with leaders who can help impose political agenda of countries which are instrumental in spreading these canards. The objective is to secure a favourable outcome aligning with its strategic interests. Western media was found indulging in mud-slinging to sully the image of select leaders and their party in a sinister attempt to impact voter’s minds. Dangerous narratives were peddled by a so-called Indologist Christophe Jaffrelot as the ‘caste census’ narrative allegedly came from France. Jaffrelot extensively writes on India. The French media had shown special interest in these elections with extensive reporting by Le Monde, Le Soir, France 24, La Croix (International), Le Temps, Reporterre, and Radio France Internationale (RFI) to shape up a particular narrative to impact Indian elections with Jaffrelot as an expert on almost everything in India. With the help of Trivedi Centre for Political Data (TCPD) at Ashoka University, Jaffrelot and his disciple Gilles Verniers aggressively peddled a narrative that ‘lower castes’ had lesser representation in politics, quoting profile of MPs in 2014 Lok Sabha. However, the expert duo immediately changed their stand when the 2019 Lok Sabha had a higher representation from lower castes. In fact, never before was he referred by so many outlets in such a short time. He wrote a paper on ‘need of caste census’, in September 2021. US and China attempted to play dirty in just concluded elections with startling discourse being Caste Census which certainly was not organic. Jaffrelot had allegedly received massive funding from the US-based ‘philanthropic’ organization Henry Luce Foundation (HLF) around the same time. HLF was founded by Henry Luce, the founder of TIME magazine. Lesser known fact about Luce is his alleged deep-state connections. He was born to Presbyterian Christian Missionaries and supported by

Hindus Human Rights Security

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California Civil Rights Report: Hinduphobia is real & kicking!

Civil Rights Department (CDR) of California recently put together a report outlining frequency in cases relating to religious hatred in the California state, USA. As per the report, incidences of anti-Hindu hate crimes accounted for 23.3 per cent of all religious hate crimes reported to Department’s Anti-Hate Hotline in one year. Almost one-quarter of all reported religious hate crimes were directed at Hindu community. The rise in such crimes is a serious concern and necessitates a closer look at the underlying reasons, ramifications and possible remedies to stop this worrying trend. Among the states with most diversity in terms of culture and religion in the US is California. Hindus make up a sizable chunk of the state’s population; they are mostly Indian Americans who enrich the social, cultural and economic fabric of the region. This diversity notwithstanding and the ideals of acceptance, reports of religious hatred and intolerance persist. Verbal abuse, physical assaults, vandalism of places of worship, harassment and other types of hate speech or discrimination against Hindu persons or groups are examples of anti-Hindu hate incidents. Substantive absolute number of incidents suggests that the larger problem of religious intolerance is anti-Hindu hostility. (Author is head of operations at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, a non-partisan think tank based in New Delhi)

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Fresh Set of Challenges for Modi 3.0

Khalistanis, Naxalites, Kashmiri subversives gaining legitimacy in Parliament demands fresh thinking and strategy K.A.Badarinath As Bharat’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi readies to take reins at centre for a third consecutive term, challenges, known and unknown may have to be dealt with on priority basis. Commentators of every hue and shade have written copiously on Prime Minister Modi’s tenacity or lack of it to run a coalition government with Telugu Desam and Janata Dal (United) and half a dozen others in tow. Challenges identified here are different and mostly new to tackle right away. For a year, Amritpal Singh, a Khalistani extremist who waged a war on Punjab Police has been put away in Dibrugarh jail of Assam. Waris Punjab De chief who hitherto owned a logistics company in Dubai is being tried for crimes including possible treason after having led a mob on Ajnala police station in Punjab. He’s being tried under National Security Act (NSA) from April 2023. His reported linkages with Pakistani spy agency, ISI to source weapons to spill violence on streets of Punjab are some of the allegations against Amritpal Singh. The 31-year old radical Khalistani separatist will have to be dealt with by Modi government when eighteenth Lok Sabha opens for newly elected members of Parliament to take oath. From Khadoor Sahib in the Punjab, Amritpal Singh was elected a member of Lok Sabha after having trounced his Congress rival. Security forces that laid trap in and around Punjab after the Ajnala incident will now have to provide security cover to the ‘Honourable Member of parliament’. Singh was successful in recent elections with highest majority of 1.97 lakh votes in Punjab. Member-elect from Khadoor Sahib will have to be respectfully escorted by the very security forces from jail to Parliament. Election Commission of India (ECI), Lok Sabha Speaker and the new government apart from courts will have to bear with his idiosyncrasies on Khalistan, the imaginary separate Sikh state. One big positive however is that the avowed Khalistani will have to take a pledge as per Bharat’s Constitution and work within the country’s governance system. Protocols to deal with him will change overnight. Second case will be Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, son of Beant Singh who killed then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi following Operation Blue Star. Sarabjeet is the new Member of Parliament elected from Faridkot and a fundamentalist. Though an independent candidate, hitherto Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa was with Siromani Akali Dal – Amritsar. This party has had Simranjit Singh Mann as its member in Lok Sabha from Sangraur previously represented by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa’s plank as an independent in Faridkot was to seek justice for desecration of Guru Granth Sahib in October 2015. On October 12 that year, Sikhs’ holy book was desecrated in Behbal Kalan and a couple of days later two sikh youth were killed. This very is part of Faridkot constituency. Even after election, Khalsa and Mann along with several Khalistani separatists shouted slogans for a separate Sikh state at Golden Temple, the highest seat of Sikh Panth in Amritsar. While Sarabjeet is regarded a fundamentalist, his election and allegiance to Bharat’s Constitution as a Parliament Member may ring in some positivity. But, there’s denying that going forward Sikh panthic politics has come here to stay and traditional Sikh parties like Shiromani Akali Dal will have to make way for new alignments and forces especially aligned with extremist and terror elements globally. Modi government will have to redraw its Punjab strategy in sync with new realities. Third member who could turn tricky for Narendra Modi government is Sheikh Abdul Rashid who’s serving his term in Tihar jail. He’s been elected to lower house from Baramulla after trouncing former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of National Conference. Popularly known as engineer Rashid, he’s been in high security Tihar jail for over five years in cases relating to money laundering and funding terror in the Kashmir valley from across the border and elsewhere. Oppression, revenge and jail term were emotionally put forth by his sons to garner votes for engineer Rashid. While Rashid’s swearing in as Lok Sabha member would turn an eyeball event, abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections may come back to focus. Courts have to take a call on his interim bail to facilitate his swearing in. After a gap of 25-years, Communist Party of India – Marxist Leninist (Liberation), Left extremist group will enter the parliament with two of its members in Rajaram Singh from Karakat constituency. His comrade, Sudhama Prasad defeated BJP minister and high profile R K Singh from Arrah. Both these constituencies are in Bihar. The party that draws inspiration from one of left extremist movement, Charu Mazumdar, has moved into public space from arms struggle and is part of the opposition, Indi alliance. CPI-ML Liberation shifted gears and moved away from Kondapalli Seetaramaiah faction’s Peoples’ War group that still is in the midst of waging a war against the state. Mainstreaming of naxalites with entry into Parliament and state legislatures is a tribute to Bharat’s democracy. But, spread of Left extremist political ideology overtly may demand a fresh strategy from Modi government. Chandrashekhar Azad alias Ravan is yet another figure from Uttar Pradesh that BJP-led alliance that needs to watch out for. Chandrashekhar will represent Nagina Lok Sabha constituency in the lower house after having won the seat with a margin of over 1.51 lakh votes. He is regarded as a self-established Dalit leader after having setup the Bhim Army. His activism extends to a decade. On March 15, 2020, Chandrashekhar launched Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram) to mainstream his political activism overtly. Initially, he looked at a tango deal with Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party (SP). But, Chandrashekhar felt let down when his party was offered just two seats in the Lok Sabha elections by SP. Azad’s direct involvement in Saharanpur violence led to his arrest under National Security Act by the Uttar Pradesh government. Delhi Police denied him

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Time for US to Take Extradition of Terrorists Rana and Headley to India Seriously

Washington and Ottawa have discarded Bharat’s national security concerns by not extraditing terrorists, David Coleman Headley & Tahawwur Rana Rahul Pawa Bharat has come under scrutiny of Western powers especially United States and Canada along with routine rhetorical accusations from Pakistani military officials on New Delhi’s involvement in elimination of terrorists on foreign shores. This leads us to a critical question. While both Washington and Ottawa take an aggressive stance on alleged Indian clandestine operations, are they committed to extraditing American and Canadian terrorists like David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Rana? Or is there a deeper disregard for Bharat’s legitimate national security and criminal justice concerns? Fifteen years have passed since the devastating 26 / 11 Mumbai attacks, a series of coordinated terrorist assaults that shocked the world. Meticulously orchestrated by Pakistan, ten terrorists from Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) crossed Arabian Sea to unleash terror on Mumbai, Bharat’s financial capital. The 60-hour siege that followed claimed 166 lives and injured over 300 civilians and security personnel leaving an indelible mark on the city’s history. Central to reconnaissance efforts leading to these vicious terrorist attacks were David Coleman Headley a.k.a Daood Sayed Gilani, an American citizen of Pakistani origin and Tahawwur Rana, a former Pakistan Army Captain and Canadian citizen. Headley, who conducted extensive surveillance and gathered crucial information on Mumbai targets, played a pivotal role in planning and execution of the attacks. He made multiple trips to Mumbai and provided detailed videos and sketches of the locations to attackers. Rana, an old friend of Headley from their days in Pakistani military school who also visited Mumbai facilitated these reconnaissance missions by providing Headley cover through his Chicago based immigration business. Following the devastating attacks, Headley and Rana were both apprehended and prosecuted for their roles in planning and executing these terrorist activities, as well as for conducting reconnaissance of a Danish daily in Denmark. American terrorist Headley was arrested by Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) in Chicago on October 3, 2009. In March 2010, he pleaded guilty to being terror trained in Pakistan, 12 terrorism-related charges, including aiding and abetting the 26/11 attacks which included six American victims. Headley cooperated with U.S. authorities providing intelligence and testimony that significantly advanced the investigation including key tip offs regarding Rana. In January 2013, Headley was sentenced to 35 years in prison. Around the same time, Canadian terrorist Rana was arrested on October 18, 2009. He was charged with providing material support to terrorist plots, including the Mumbai terrorist attacks and a planned terror attack on Jyllands-Posten in Denmark. In June 2011, Rana was convicted of conspiracy to provide material support to Lashkar-e-Taiba, terrorist group responsible for Mumbai attacks and for supporting the plot against Danish newspaper. However, strikingly, he was acquitted of direct involvement in Mumbai attacks. Rana was sentenced to 14 years in prison in January 2013. For over 11 years, Bharat diligently pursued extradition of David Headley and Tahawwur Rana from US under India-U.S. Extradition Treaty of 1997seeking justice for their roles in 26 / 11 Mumbai terrorist attacks. The extradition request for Headley was sent on December 7, 2012. Headley’s cooperation with U.S. authorities and his plea agreement which precluded his extradition to India, Pakistan, or Denmark, Bharat remains steadfast in its efforts to hold him accountable under her own laws where the crime was abetted, planned and committed. The plea agreement spared Headley from death penalty and barred his extradition. It has been a point of contention with Indian authorities which feels that US soft-pedaled and did not cooperate in providing access to Headley. Although officials from India’s National Intelligence Agency (NIA) were able to interrogate Headley in Chicago in June 2010, they could do so only in the presence of FBI agents, leading to concerns that the information obtained was restricted. Importantly, while the plea agreement limits Headley’s extradition for the crimes he confessed to, the U.S. Secretary of State holds the authority to potentially extradite Headley for offenses other than those related to the 26/11 attacks or if he violates the plea agreement. Secretary of State seems to have been party to this plea agreement thereby denying extradition of Headley. Bharat has been pursuing extradition of Tahawwur Rana. Following his conviction in US, New Delhi requested his extradition along with evidence on August 13, 2020. On May 16, 2023, a US court concluded that Rana was extraditable for offenses related to Mumbai attacks and certified this finding to US Secretary of State. In May, Rana had filed a writ of habeas corpus, challenging the court order that agreed with US government’s request for his extradition to India. On August 2, 2023, Judge Dale S. Fischer of US District Court in California denied Rana’s petition for a writ of habeas corpus, paving the way for US Secretary of State to issue a certification for his extradition to India. However, Rana has filed an appeal against the order and sought a stay on his extradition to India until his appeal in the Ninth Circuit Court is heard, leading to his extradition being stayed on August 18, 2023. His extradition remains pending. US and Canada played hardball on both these key extraditions that were to be tried for waging a war against Bharat’s sovereignty. On the other hand, the two countries were working in tandem to corner Bharat on the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar is a Khalistani terrorist trained by Pakistan’s notorious Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and funded to carry out terrorist activities in India and posed significant threats. Similarly, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, face of proscribed entity, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), is another example. SFJ has been declared an unlawful association under Sub-Section (1) and (3) of Section 3 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Numerous scholars of terrorism and international relations, as well as the Indian government, recognise both Nijjar and Pannun as terrorists. They frequently expose the so-called “Khalistani Movement” as a front for Pakistan recently furthered by Communist Party of China (CPC) to engage in

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Combating Terrorism, Not Targeting Sikh Community

Nobody supports violating sanctity of Harmandir Sahib, hurting panthic traditions, culture or devout Sikhs way of life. Handful of terrorists aligned to Khalistan forced Operation Blue Star. Operation Blue Star was carried out by the Indian Armed Forces from June 1 to 10, 1984. The key objective was to remove Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his associates from the Golden Temple compound in Amritsar, Punjab, where they had seized control of this sacred site revered in Sikhism and other Dharmic faiths. This holy place, recognized as the most sacred in Dharmic culture, became the center of a significant criminal justice operation. Many have misinterpreted it as an attack on the Sikh community. However, a broader perspective reveals that Operation Blue Star was a necessary response to escalating terrorism in Punjab, which was supported and backed by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan under Zia-Ul-Haq’s K2 policy. K2 aimed to foster several secession movements by promoting insurgencies and terrorism as part of its larger objective to destabilize India. Context and Catalysts for Operation Blue Star The roots of Operation Blue Star can be traced back to the early 1980s, when insurgency in Punjab was on the rise. Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a radical Sikh preacher, emerged as a strong supporter of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution. This resolution advocated for more autonomy for Punjab, and Bhindranwale controversially manipulated its narrative to the larger community to establish a separate Sikh state called Khalistan. His speeches and actions drew a large following, and by 1982, he and his armed supporters had fortified themselves inside the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) complex. Bhindranwale held captive pilgrims belonging to Hindu and Sikh Dharmic faiths, encouraged violence, carried out assassinations, and stockpiled weapons within the sacred compound. The initial bloodshed was ignited by Bhindranwale’s gang within the Darbar Sahib or Golden Temple. The first murder was that of DIG Avtar Singh Atwal, killed in broad daylight. After Atwal’s murder, police officers were afraid to touch the body without Bhindranwale’s permission. This murder sparked a debate over the sanctity of the Darbar Sahib, which was undermined by Bhindranwale’s terrorist associates. The Indian government was under increasing pressure to maintain law and order and combat the growing threat of terrorism. Despite numerous attempts to negotiate, Bhindranwale’s intransigence forced the government to launch an operation to reclaim the Golden Temple and eliminate the militant threat. Operation Blue Star Operation Blue Star was carried out in two phases: Operation Metal and Operation Woodrose. Operation Metal aimed to eliminate the terrorists entrenched in the Golden Temple compound. Following this, Operation Woodrose sought to combat terrorism in Punjab by apprehending or neutralizing suspected terrorists. On June 3, 1984, a 36-hour curfew was imposed in Punjab, cutting off all communication, electricity, and transportation. Hundreds of Sikh pilgrims who had arrived to mark Guru Arjan Dev’s martyrdom anniversary found themselves trapped inside the Golden Temple. The Indian Army, led by Lt. General Kuldip Singh Brar, surrounded the temple complex with troops, tanks, and artillery. The operation began on the night of June 5, 1984, and lasted five days. The Akal Takht, a significant structure inside the complex, was occupied by Bhindranwale’s armed followers, making it a focal point of fierce confrontation. In the effort to save the Akal Takht, the Indian Army incurred heavy losses. By the morning of June 7, the army had taken control of the Harmandir Sahib complex, and Bhindranwale, along with his associates, were neutralized. Separating Fact from Fiction Operation Blue Star was not an attack on the Sikh community or its believers; it was a targeted response to terrorism. The Indian government’s primary objective was to reestablish law and order in Punjab by ending the criminals’ occupation of the Golden Temple. Critics of the operation often overlook the fact that Bhindranwale and his companions had turned a holy site into an armed fortress, risking the lives of innocent pilgrims and undermining the temple’s sanctity. Despite the adverse conditions, the Indian Armed Forces took extraordinary steps to defend the holy site and avert civilian casualties. The timing of the operation was planned to prevent further mobilization and violence by Bhindranwale and his associates. To maintain the sanctity of the temple, it was critical to reclaim the sacred site from Bhindranwale and his terror accomplices, who had transformed it into a terrorist hotspot. Global Propaganda In subsequent years, outfits like Pakistan backed Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) have continued to use unfortunate unraveling’s at the Golden temple to advance their radical cause. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a proscribed terrorist and face of SFJ has spread false propaganda to legitimize Pakistan’s agenda within the Sikh community. Pannun and his outfit continue to portray Operation Blue Star as an intentional attack on Sikhism, neglecting the background of escalating terrorism and the government’s responsibilities to maintain law and order. The SFJ’s activities are part of a larger successionist propaganda to legitimize the Khalistan movement. This narrative is intended to manipulate emotions and create outrage, particularly among younger generations who may lack a systematic understanding of the historical background. By presenting the operation as an act of religious oppression, the SFJ aspires to impart a sense of hate and regularize their separatist and violent actions. The Impact of Fabricated Narratives The misleading narratives crafted by SFJ have grave consequences for civic harmony and national security. By misrepresenting the facts, these entities feed a cycle of distrust and anger within the dharmic community especially Sikhs in India as well as abroad. This divisive discourse undermines efforts toward reconciliation and peace, intensifying contentions and potentially inspiring future violence. Moreover, describing Operation Blue Star as an attack on the Sikh community rather than a counter-terrorism operation diminishes the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces. Many soldiers, especially Sikhs, endangered their lives to reestablish peace and safeguard the nation’s integrity. Recognizing the true nature of Operation Blue Star is critical to honoring their bravery while also acknowledging the government’s complicated challenges in dealing with terrorism. Eyewitness Accounts A veteran journalist, Satish Jacob, who was then freelancing

Uncategorized

649

When A Nation Crushed Its Own People…

A horrific incident in global history unfolded on June 4, 1989, when Deng Xiaoping, leader of Communist Party of China, declared martial law to trample upon students led protests in capital city, Beijing. The 27th and 38th divisions of People’s Liberation Army slaughtered hundreds of innocent citizens, student and youth, brutally carrying out diktats of Communist Oligarchs run party leadership. Rohan Giri June 3, 1989 was the day when Beijing engulfed with fear as Chinese dictatorship turned its weapons and tanks on its own people. Tiananmen Square Massacre is vivid reminder to which the Chinese regime led by Communist Party of China (CPC) went to reinforce its authority. This was more than just a crackdown; it was ruthless invasion of the Chinese people by their own leadership, sending shockwaves globally and haunting generations. The protest was outcome of rising socio-political inequality in China. Economic changes under Deng Xiaoping’s leadership lead to elevated corruption and socio-political inequality. On the other hand, reformist leader Hu Yaobang’s demise led to students’ rallies calling for political reform, government accountability and an end to corruption. As the protests spread, Chinese dictatorship declared martial law, fearing a loss of power and eventually chose to deploy soldiers of People’s Liberation Army to crush the peaceful protesters. The merciless crackdown killed hundreds of people and marked a dark episode in the Communist Party of China’s purported revolutionary efforts, symbolizing the extent to which CPC went to secure its rule and suppress dissent. The massacre had far-reaching consequences, emphasizing constant struggle for human rights and political liberty. How Brutality Began The protests that ended in the massacre began in April 1989, following death of Hu Yaobang, a former Communist Party leader who had been a symbol of reform. Students, intellectuals and labour activists gathered at Tiananmen Square (a city square in Beijing) to mourn Hu and request political and economic reforms including freedom and an end to corruption. Today also, CPC leadership under President Xi Jingping exhibits massive purge in political dissent and challenge to his leadership in the name of campaign against corruption. Same was the case then in1989 when the People’s Liberation Army tanks run over its own people seeking political and economic reforms. In 1989, when number of protestors increased, the authorities became more anxious. On May 20, martial law was imposed, and thousands of troops were sent out in Beijing. By end of May, the administration was set to crush demonstrators. On the evening of June 3, a directive was issued to eradicate demonstrators from the square using all violent and dictatorial means. The bloodshed that occurred was profound. People’s Liberation Army equipped with rifles, bayonets and tanks paraded into the city. The armed forces were instructed to shoot to kill and they did so extensively. The streets surrounding Tiananmen Square became slaughter houses when the army opened fire on defenseless civilians including women, children, and the elderly. Eyewitness stories depict scenes of chaos and slaughter, with victims scattered all over the streets and makeshift blockades flattened by tank treads. Victims’ Account One of the most distressing accounts is that of Wang Nan, 19-year-old student and aspiring journalist. Wang was among the first to be killed, shot in the head by PLA soldiers as he tried to photograph the events unfolding. His father, Wang Fandi, later detailed the suffering of detecting his son’s body amid many others in a hospital mortuary. Wang Nan’s execution represents silence of a generation’s voice and the shattering aspirations for an inclusive society. Another tragic account is of Liu Xiaobo, who was not killed in the massacre but became one of its recognizable victims. Liu, a literary critic and activist, was present at Tiananmen Square during the crackdown. On June 2, he began a four-man, three-day hunger strike. Later known as “Tiananmen Four Gentlemen Hunger Strike,” that gained students faith. Another three gentlemen with Liu were Hou Dejian (well-known songwriter and vocalist), Zhou Tou (Lecturer in sociology at Peking University), and Gao Xin (former editor of the Beijing Normal University Gazette). Liu was taken into custody at Qincheng Prison on June 5 for his involvement in students protest. The Chinese state-backed media published numerous reports calling him a “mad dog” and a “black hand” for allegedly inciting and manipulating student movement to topple the government and socialism. His writings were banned including his fourth book ‘Going Naked Toward God’. He survived and continued to struggle for human rights and democracy in China that led to several imprisonments. Liu received Nobel Peace Prize in 2010. Liu Xiaobo’s struggle and death in prison in 2017 validate the massacre’s lasting consequences for those who dared to speak out. Butchers of Beijing Tiananmen Square Massacre has had a lasting effect on generations. In light of the CPC’s rigorous control over information, younger generations in China may be oblivious to the massacre because the story is banned from textbooks, media and all other public contexts. Control of traditional forms of media such as newspapers, books, television, and radio has always been the norm for CCP from the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) to Tiananmen massacre. Immediately after massacre of the students, it was renamed as ‘counter-revolutionary rebellion,’ gradually downgraded the massacre to an event and finally skirmish. However, individuals who learn about it, whether through family stories or international media, frequently experience a complicated range of emotions, including anger, despair and a sense of unfairness. Memory of the massacre has played an important part in formation of the post-1989 understanding between rulers and ruled in China. The legacy of Tiananmen Square Massacre highlights importance of historical reminiscence. Efforts to preserve remembrance of the massacre, such as annual vigils in Hong Kong and formation of monuments around the world, serve as a reminder of those who made ultimate sacrifice for their convictions. These measures are critical to confirming that the lessons of Tiananmen are not overlooked. Concluding Observation Tiananmen Square Massacre was a moment when a nation turned against its own people causing unspeakable suffering and leaving

Guest Column Leadership

985

Reforms Should Go Beyond Economy, Touch Every Facet of Life

Let’s leverage strengths for global good, meet aspirations of Bharat’s citizens as we progress to become a developed country by 2047 Narendra Modi The biggest festival of democracy, the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, is concluding today in our nation, the Mother of Democracy. After a three-day spiritual journey in Kanniyakumari, I have just boarded the plane for Delhi. Through the day, Kashi and numerous other seats have been in the midst of voting. My mind is filled with so many experiences and emotions… I feel a boundless flow of energy within myself. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are the first in the Amrit Kaal. I began my campaign a few months ago from Meerut, the land of the First War of Independence of 1857. Since then, I have traversed ac-ross the length and breadth of our great nation. The final rally of these elections took me to Hoshiarpur in Punjab, the land of the great Gurus and a land associated with Sant Ravidas Ji. After that, I came to Kanniyakumari, at the feet of Maa Bharti. It is natural that the fervour of the elections was echoing in my heart and mind. The multitude of faces seen in rallies and road shows came in front of my eyes. The blessings from our Nari Shakti… the trust, the affection, all of this was a very humbling experience. My eyes were getting moist… I entered into a ‘sadhana’ (meditative state). And then, the heated political debates, the attacks and counter-attacks, the voices and words of accusations which are so characteristic of an election… they all vanished into a void. A sense of detachment came to grow within me… my mind became completely detached from the external world. Meditation becomes challenging amidst such huge responsibilities, but the land of Kanniya Kumari and the inspiration of Swami Vivekananda made it effortless. As a candidate myself, I left my campaign in the hands of my beloved people of Kashi and came here. I am also grateful to God for instilling in me these values from birth, which I have cherished and tried to live up to. I was also thinking about what Swami Vivekananda must have experienced during his meditation at this very place in Kanniyakumari! A part of my meditation was spent in a similar stream of thoughts. Amidst this detachment, amidst the peace and silence, my mind was constantly thinking about the bright future of Bharat, the goals of Bharat. The rising sun at Kanniyakumari gave new heights to my thoughts, the vastness of the ocean expanded my ideas, and the expanse of the horizon continuously made me realise the unity, the Oneness, embedded in the depths of the universe. It seemed as if the observations and experiences undertaken in the lap of the Himalayas decades ago were being revived. Kanniyakumari has always been very close to my heart. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari was built under the leadership of Shri Eknath Ranade ji. I had the opportunity to travel extensively with Eknath ji. During the construction of this memorial, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Kanniyakumari as well. From Kashmir to Kanniyakumari… this is a common identity that is deeply ingrained in the heart of every citizen of the country. This is the ‘Shakti Peeth’ (seat of Shakti) where Maa Shakti incarnated as Kanya Kumari. At this southern tip, Maa Shakti performed penance and waited for Bhagwan Shiva, who was residing in the Himalayas at the northernmost parts of Bharat. Kanniyakumari is the land of confluences. The sacred rivers of our country flow into different seas, and here, those very seas converge. And here, we witness another great confluence – the ideological confluence of Bharat! Here, we find the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a grand statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar, Gandhi Mandapam, and Kamarajar Mani Mandapam. These streams of thought from these stalwarts converge here to form a confluence of national thought. This gives rise to great inspirations for nation-building. This land of Kanniyakumari gives an indelible message of unity, especially to any person who doubts Bharat’s nationhood and the sense of unity. The grand statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar in Kanniyakumari seems to be looking at the expanse of Maa Bharti from the sea. His work Thirukkural is one of the crown jewels of the beautiful Tamil language. It covers every aspect of life, inspiring us to give our best for ourselves and for the nation. It was my great fortune to pay my respects to such a great figure. Swami Vivekananda once said, “Every nation has a message to deliver, a mission to fulfil, a destiny to reach.” For thousands of years, Bharat has been moving forward with this sense of meaningful purpose. Bharat has been a cradle of ideas for thousands of years. We have never considered what we have acquired as our personal wealth or measured it purely by economic or material parameters. Therefore, ‘Idam-na-mama’ (this is not mine) has become an inherent and natural part of the character of Bharat. Bharat’s welfare benefits our planet’s journey to progress as well. Take the freedom movement as an example. Bharat gained independence on Aug 15, 1947. At that time, many countries around the world were under colonial rule. Bharat’s independence journey inspired and empowered many of those countries to achieve their own freedom. That same spirit was seen decades later when the world came face to face with the once in a century Covid-19 pandemic. When concerns were raised about the poor and developing countries, Bharat’s successful efforts provided courage and assistance to many nations. Today, Bharat’s governance model has become an example for many countries around the world. Empowering 25 crore people to rise above poverty in just 10 years is unprecedented. Innovative practices such as Pro-People Good Governance, aspirational districts, and aspirational blocks are being discussed globally today. Our efforts, from empowering the poor to last-mile delivery, have inspired the world by prioritising individuals standing at the last rung of society. Bharat’s Digital India campaign is now an example for the entire

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