#BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh

[townpostin]

BJP Leader Shiv Shankar Singh Distributes New Ration Cards

Shiv Shankar Singh, BJP leader and social activist, hands out new ration cards at Nagrik Suvidha Kendra. BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh distributed new ration cards to beneficiaries, facilitating access to government schemes. JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh distributed new ration cards to beneficiaries through the Citizen Service Center. These new ration cards will ensure that…

[pegasusindiaspy]

Pegasus India List

Pegasus Project : Names Revealed

Amnesty International worked to analyze the phones of 10 Indians. Each phone showed signs of either attempted hacking or successful compromise.

The presence of a number within the database does NOT necessarily indicate that the target's device was successful. Without evidence from forensic analysis, it's impossible to tell if there were successful hacks or attempts. The list's names have been distinguished. Potential targets are those whose numbers appear on the list but whose devices have not been forensically analysed by Amnesty. If the phones of potential targets show evidence of successful hacking attempts, then they are classified as such.

161 names were revealed that were potential targets or targets for surveillance by clients at the NSO Group. The data was distributed over multiple stories. They are all listed below. This list does not include names that were disclosed by Pegasus project partners. Lets see Pegasus India List.

Journalists

At least 40 journalists that were either surveillance targets or targets. Seven journalists had their phones examined by an investigator. Five showed evidence of Pegasus infection.

1. M.K. Venu Founding editor. The phone of the victim was also forensically examined and Pegasus-related traces were discovered.

2. Sushant Singh:A former journalist for Indian Express, who now writes about national security. Amnesty came to the conclusion that his phone was compromised following a forensic investigation.

3. Siddharth Varadarajan: Founding editor The phone was then forensically analysed. Pegasus had compromised the phone, according to the analysis.

4. Paranjoy Guha Thakurta:FormerEPWNow, editorNewsclick. Pegasus compromised his phone and forensic analysis revealed that.

5. S.N.M. Abdi:FormerOutlookAccording to forensic analysis, journalist whose phone was stolen.

6. Vijaita Singh: The HinduReporter who covers the ministry of home. Her phone was examined by an investigator. However, there was no evidence that a hacker attempted to access it.

7. Smita SharmaFormer TV18 anchor. Although evidence was found of a attempted hack, it did not indicate that the phone had been infected.

8. Shishir Gupta: Executive editor atHindustan Times

9. Rohini Singh:Freelance journalist, who has written numerous exposes. About controversial business dealings by politicians or their families.

10. Devirupa Mitra: Editor in chief of the diplomatic section.

11. Prashant Jha:Views editorHindustan TimesPreviously, he was the chief of the Bureau.

12. Prem Shankar Jiha:A veteran journalist who was in editorial positions at Hindustan Times TheTimes of India He is also a regular contributor to several newspapers.

13. Swati Chakravedi She wrote a book that focuses on the infamous BJP IT Cell.

14. Rahul Singh:Defence correspondentHindustan Times.

15. Aurangzeb NaqshbandiAn ex-political reporter who worked previously forHindustan TimesIncluding coverage of the Congress party.

16. Ritika ChopraA journalist for theIndian ExpressWho covers education and Election Commission beats.

17. Muzamil JaleelAnotherIndian ExpressKashmiri journalist

18. Sandeep Unnithan India TodayJournalist who covers defence and Indian military.

19. Manoj Gopta:TV18 Security and investigations editor

20. J. Gopikrishnan:Investigative reporterThe PioneerHe also broke the 2G telecom fraud.

21. Saikat Datta:Formerly, I was a national-security reporter.

22. Ifthikar Gilani:FormerDNAReporter covering Kashmir.

23. Manoranjan Gupta:Frontier TV's Northeast editor in Chief

24. Sanjay Shyam:Bihar-based journalist.

25. Jaspal Singh Sheran:A Ludhiana-based Punjabi newspaper editor-in chief, this octogenarian is also the editor-in–chiefRozana Pehredar.

26. Roopesh Kumar Singh:A freelancer based in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh.

27. Deepak GidwaniFormer correspondentDNALucknow.

28. Sumir KaulPTI News Agency: A journalist

29.Shabir Hussain:Kashmiri-based political commentator, based in Delhi.

Politicians, political figures, and anyone associated with them

1. Rahul Gandhi:The Congress party leader, who was presumed to have been the prime ministerial nominee for the two previous general elections.

2. Alankar SawaiRahul Gandhi was a close friend.

3. Sachin RaoRahul Gandhi has another aide who is a member on the Congress Working Committee.

4. Prashant Kishor:An election strategist who worked for multiple political parties, including Congress and the BJP. His phone was forensically examined and indicated signs of a successful hack.

5. Abhishek Banerjee:Trinamool Congress MP and nephew to Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal chief minister.

6. Ashwini Vaishnaw:Former IAS officer made Union cabinet minister in recent expansion.

7. Prahlad Singh Patel:Another cabinet minister in Union government. His wife, secretaries and assistants. Cook, gardener, etc.

8. Pravin Togadia:Former head, Vishwa India Parishad.

9. Pradeep AwasthiVasundhara Raje Skindia was the former chief minister in Rajasthan.

10. Sanjay Kachroo:Smriti Iraniani, the then minister of human resources development, chose a corporate executive to be her officer on special duty in 2014. She was never officially appointed. His father and minor son are also listed.

11. G. ParameshwaraDeputy chief Minister in the JD(S) - Congress coalition government in Karnataka. It was toppled following several MLAs defecting to the BJP.

12: SatishPersonal secretary to H.D. Kumaraswamy, the chief minister in Karnataka.

13. VenkateshPersonal secretary to Siddaramaiah who was the Congress chief Minister of Karnataka during Kumaraswamy.

14. Manjunath Muddegowda:H.D. Devegowda. They are also part of Pegasus India List.

Constitutional authority

1. Ashok LavasaHe was a career bureaucrat but was also a target of surveillance as an election commissioner.

Academicians, lawyers, and activists

1. Hany Babu M.T. :An accused at Delhi University in the Elgar Parishad case is a professor

2. Rona WilsonAn activist for prisoners' rights who is also an accused in the Elgar Parishad trial.

3. Vernon Gonsalves:An activist for human rights. Elgar Parishad: He is also charged.

4. Anand TeltumbdeElgar Parishad: Academic and civil rights activist.

5. Shoma Sen:Retired professor, and one of the suspects in the Elgar Parishad trial.

6. Gautam Navrakha:Journalist and rights activist, Elgar Parishad is his case.

7. Arun FerreiraOne of the Elgar Parishad lawyers.

8. Sudha Bhardwaj:Activist, lawyer, and accused in Elgar Parishad case

9. Pavana:Varavara Rao is the daughter of a Telugu poet. She is charged in the Elgar Parishad trial.

10. Minal GadlingSurendra Gadling's spouse is being charged in the Elgar Parishad trial.

11. Nihalsing Rathod:Surendra Gadling's associate and lawyer.

12. Jagadish Mehram:Surendra Gadling has another lawyer.

13. Maruti Kurwatkar:He was charged in several cases under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Surendra Gadling represented him.

14. Shalini Gera:Sudha Bharadwaj has been represented by an attorney.

15. Ankit GrewalSudha Bharadwaj is a close associate in law.

16. Jaison Cooper:Anand Teltumbde's friend, a Kerala-based rights activist.

17. Rupali Jadhav:Kabir Kala Manch, a member of the cultural troupe.

18. Lalsu Nagoti:Mahesh Raut is close to a lawyer, and he is being accused in the Elgar Parishad matter.

19. Soni Sori:Bastar-based tribal rights activist.

20 Lingaram Kodopi:Soni Sori's nephew, a journalist.

21. Degree Prasad ChouhanA Chhattisgarh state president for the People's Union for Civil Liberties.

22. Rakesh Ranjan:A Sri Ram College of Commerce assistant professor

23. Ashok BhartiChairman of All India Ambedkar Mahasabha (an umbrella organization of Dalit rights' groups).

24. Umar KhalidJawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), former student. During the notorious JNU sloganeering trial, he was first arrested for sedition. He is currently being held in prison, and is awaiting trial for the Delhi riots conspiracy case.

25. Anirban Battacharya:Khalid, a former JNU student was also taken into custody on suspicion of sedition.

26. Banjyotsna Lahiri:You can also be a JNU student.

27. Bela BhatiaChhattisgarh's lawyer and human rights activist.

28. Shiv Gopal MaishraA leader of the railway union.

29. Anjani Kumar:Delhi-based labour rights activist.

30. Alok ShuklaA prominent anti-coal mining activist who was also the convenor of Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan.

31. Saroj GiriA Delhi University professor.

32 Shubhranshu Choudhary:Bastar-based peace activist.

33. Sandeep Kumar Rai:Former BBC journalist and trade union activist.

34 Khalid Khan:Sandeep Kumar Rai's friend.

35 Ipsa ShatakshiA Jharkhand-based activist.

37. S.A.R. GeelaniProfessor at Delhi University who was later convicted in the Parliament Bombing Case. His phone was forensically analyzed and showed signs that it had been infected by Pegasus.

38. G. HaragopalHe was a retired professor at the University of Hyderabad. He was also chairman of the Saibaba Defence Committee. Three of his smartphones were forensically examined, and the results were non-conclusive.

39. Vasantha Kumari:G.N., an ex-university professor from Delhi, was married to G.N. Saibaba was convicted in connection with a banned Maoist group.

40 Jagdeep Chhokar:Co-founder of Association for Democratic Reforms.

Civilians : Pegasus India List

1. A former Supreme Court staffer:The woman had accused Ranjan Gogoi (then chief justice of India) of sexual harassment. Her family members were also possible targets.

Figures taken from the Northeast

1. Samujjal Bhattacharjee:Assistant to the All Assam Students Union. Also member of the high-level advisory committee for the Assam Accord.

2. Anup Chetia:The leader of the United Liberation Front of Assam.

3. Malem NingthoujaManipuri writer based in Delhi.

Naga leaders

1. Atem VashumAn assumed successor to Th. Muivah, the leader of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim. Muivah.

2. Apam Muivah:Th. is another NSCN (I-M), leader. Muivah is Muivah’s newphew.

3. Anthony Shimray:The commander-in-chief of the Naga Army of NSCN. (I-M).

4. Phunting ShimrangFormer commander-in-chief of the NSCN's Naga Army (I-M).

5. Kitovi Zhimomi:Convenor, Naga National Policy Groups (NNPGs). Narendra Modi was in talks with the groups to find a 'one solution to the Naga question'.

Scientists or others in the health sector

1. Gagandeep Kang:One of India’s top virologists was involved in fighting the Nipah disease.

2. Hari Menon:The Indian head for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

CBI officers, and those who are related to them

1. Alok Verma:Verma, who was the former chief of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was added to the list shortly after Modi was removed from office. It would be possible to add the personal phone numbers of his wife and daughter as well as his son-in-law to the list. This would make it 8 numbers total from this family.

2. Rakesh Athana:Verma was also added to the list at the same time Asthana, a former senior CBI officer. He is close to Modi and currently leads the BSF.

3. A.K. SharmaAn additional CBI official of high rank was added to this list along with Asthana, Verma, and Verma.

Businesspersons

1. Anil AmbaniReliance ADAG chairman. Anil Ambani used the phone number in 2018. This was after controversy over Rafale had intensified.

2. Tony JesudasanADAG is the corporate communications chief. Ambani also added his number. Jesudasan’s wife also has a number.

3. Venkata Rao Posina:India representative of Dassault Aviation.

4. Inderjit Sial:Ex-head of Saab India.

5. Pratyush Kumar:Boeing India boss.

6. Harmanjit Nagi:EDF is the head of the French energy firm.

India's Tibetan activists, officials and clerics

1. Tempa Tsering:Long-term Envoy for Dalai Lama in New Delhi

2. Tenzin Taklha:Senior aide of Dalai Lama.

3. Chimmey Rigzen:Senior aide to Dalai Lama.

4. Lobsang Sangay:Former head of exile Tibetan government.

Figures from Kashmir

1. Bilal Lone:An independent leader and brother to Sajad Loone, Peoples Conference leader. His phone was forensically analyzed. The forensic analysis of his phone revealed Pegasus spyware, even though it is different from the one he used to be targeted in the leaked database.

2. Tariq Bukhari:Altaf Bukhari is the brother of Apni Party leader. He is a businessman, and political leader. In April 2019, he was questioned by NIA for a 'terror financing' case.

3. Syed Naseem GeelaniSyed Ali Shah Geelani, a prominent separatist leader, is a scientist.

4. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq:Separatist leader, head of Hurriyat Conference. He is also chief cleric at Jama Masjid.

5. Waqar BhattiProminent human right activist.

6. Zaffar Akbar Bhat:Influential Shia cleric, associated with Hurriyat and prominent separatist leader.

Figures of national security : Pegasus India List

1. K.K. SharmaWhen he was identified as a possible target of surveillance, he was the head the Border Security Force (BSF).

2. Jagdish Mathani:BSF inspector General who was integral in the Union home ministry’s comprehensive integrated border management (CIBMS), smart fencing project.

3. Jitendra Kumar Ojha:A senior official in the Research and Analysis Wing. He was made a target of surveillance in the wake of his January 2018 retirement.

4. Colonel Mukul dev:An army officer who refused to accept the government's request that rations be cut for officers posted in peace-areas.

5. Colonel Amit Kumar:Another army officer, who petitioned the Supreme Court in support of 356 Army personnel for relief from what they had discovered was an imminent dilution under the Armed Forces Special Forces Act (AFSPA), filed a Petition.

Bureaucrats and officials of investigating agencies

1. Rajeshwar Singh:His agency had several high-profile, high-profile investigations led by a senior enforcement directorate officer. Potential targets for surveillance included his wife and both of their sisters.

2. Abha Singh:Rajeshwar Singh's brother is a Mumbai-based lawyer. Although her mobile phone was forensically analyzed, the results were not conclusive.

3. V.K. JainA former officer in the Indian Administrative Service, who was a personal assistant of Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi.

Official Bihar cricket

1. Rakesh Tiwary:The current chief of Bihar Cricket Association.

PSU bureaucrats, lobbyists and businesspeople

1. NareshGoyal:Jet Airways ex-boss who ran into legal problems.

2. Ajay Sing:SpiceJet managing director and chairman

3. Prashant Ruia:Director of Essar Group.

4. Vikramkothari:Associated with Rotomac Pens - a group that was investigated as a suspect in loan fraud.

5. Rahul Kothari:Vikram Kothari is Vikram's son.

6. C. SivasankaranAircel maverick entrepreneur and former promoter, who was also under surveillance.

7. B.C. TripathiFormer head of GAIL India state-run GAIL India. As non-executive chairman, he joined Essar January 2020.

8. V. Balasubramanian:Reliance Industries' long-time lobbyist.

9. A.N. Sethuraman: A lobbyist associated the Reliance AD Group.

Tamil politicians and activists

1. SeemanLeader of the Naam Thaamizhar Katchi, this man is vocal in support of Sri Lankan Tamils.

2: Thirumurugan Gandhi:The founder of the May 17, which fights for Sri Lankan Tamils' rights, He was also a supporter of the anti-Sterlite protests, and other civil rights movements.

3. K. RamakrishnanAn activist with decades of expertise. He was with Dravidar Kazhagam but later left to create the Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam.

4. Kumaresan:Periyar founded the Dravidar Kamhagam as its treasurer.

Supreme Court Judges, Officials and Lawyers

1. N.K. Gandhi:Former Supreme Court registrar, who worked in the crucial "writ" section.

2. T.I. RajputAnother Supreme Court Register.

3. Justice Arun MishraRetired Supreme Court Judge who is now the head of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The potential target of surveillance was a number that had been registered in the name and address of the judge. Sources at the BSNL said that there were no sources. Justice Mishra had the number registered from September 18, 2010 to September 19, 2018. The judge stated that he had given it up on April 21, 2014.

4. Vijay Agarwal: Counsel for fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi. After signing on as Modi’s lawyer, he was chosen as a target of surveillance. His wife's number was also a potential target.

5. Aljo P. Joseph:Lawyer representing Christian Michel in the Agusta Westland fraud. Amnesty's tech group says that preliminary indications point to Pegasus targeting his iPhone data.

6. M. Thangathurai:A junior lawyer working for Mukul Rohatgi, the former attorney general. He stated that his telephone number is listed under the name of his boss in many places, such as the bank, so that the senior advocate doesn't get disturbed by "routine".

The world's leaders

1. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador:While he is currently the president of Mexico, he was also targeted before his election in 2018 His aides also were targeted.

2. Emmanuel MacronFrance's president.

3. Imran Khan:The prime minister, Pakistan.

4. Mostafa Madbouly:The prime minister in Egypt.

5. Saad-Eddine El Othmani:The prime minister of Morocco.

6. Barham Salih:The president of Iraq.

7. Cyril RamaphosaThe president of South Africa.

8. Mohammed VI:Morocco's King.

9. Saad Hariri:Former prime Minister of Lebanon.

10: Ruhakana Rugunda:Former prime Minister of Uganda.

11. Noureddine Beoui:Former prime Minister of Algeria.

12. Charles Michel:The current president of European Council is a former prime minister of Belgium.

13. Panah Huseynov:Former prime minister, Azerbaijan.

14. Felipe Calderon:Former Mexican president

Jamal Khashoggi-related people

Jamal Khashoggi was a Saudi dissident and wrote for the Washington Post. Assassins sent by the Saudi government allegedly murdered him at the Saudi embassy. His associates or the investigation into their deaths were all targets or potential targets of surveillance.

1. Hatice CengizTurkish doctorate student engaged to Jamal Khashoggi Her phone was forensically analyzed.

2. Hanan Elatr:Khashoggi was the man she married. Her phone was also forensically examined.

3. Wadah Khanfar:The former director-general ofAl JazeeraTelevision network. His phone was forensically examined.

4. Turan Kislakci:Cengiz was introduced by a Turkish journalist.

5. Irfan FidanChief Turkish prosecutor responsible for investigations into Khashoggi’s murder.

Dubai rulers are individuals who are connected

1. Sheikha Latifa:A member the Dubai royal family, and the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum (the UAE's prime minister). She attempted to flee from her father's care but was captured by Indian forces in Goa and brought back to Dubai.

2. Haya bint Hussein:Estranged spouse of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum

3. David Haigh:British activist and lawyer who participated in the campaign for Sheikha Latifa's release. Pegasus was confirmed by forensic analysis of his phone.

It was the Pegasus India List and will be updating it when we have new information.

[net4news]

'We know what he’s been reading': Opposition slams govt over Pegasus 'snooping' report | India News

NEW DELHI: The opposition parties on Monday slammed government over alleged "snooping" of several prominent politicians, journalists and activists using Israel's Pegasus software and demanded an independent probe into the matter. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the matter using the hashtag "Pegasus". "We know what he's been reading- everything on your phone," Gandhi said on Twitter. We know what he’s been reading- everything on your phone!#Pegasus https://t.co/d6spyji5NA — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) 1626663694000 Spyware Pegasus, which is sold by the NSO Group of Israel, may have been used to conduct surveillance on about 300 Indians, including politicians, scientists and 40 journalists, according to a report. "Modi government is guilty of “treason”. Modi government’s spyware has “dismantled national security”. Congress seeks sacking of home minister and probe into the Prime Minister’s role in the issue," party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said on Twitter. Modi Govt Guilty of “TREASON”Modi Govt’s Spyware Has “Dismantled National Security”Snooping of Shri Rahul Gandh… https://t.co/Vxtcbq2rYS — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) 1626697114000 Shashi Tharoor termed it a very serious issue concerning national security and demanded an independent inquiry into the matter. "GoI has denied resorting to unauthorised surveillance. The question this raises is, if Pegasus is only sold to governments, which other govts (China/Pakistan?) are using it to snoop on prominent Indian citizens? Shouldn't the authorities call for an independent investigation," he said in a tweet. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said the Pegasus report shows the country's "government and administration is weak". "There is an atmosphere of fear among people. The PM and Home Minister should address the issue and clarify," he said. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar called such snooping acts "dirty" and said that new technologies are being used to disturb and trouble people and to hamper their work. "I have been saying that new technology will definitely create problems. We should look into this aspect. Such new technologies are beneficial, but people also misuse them," he said. "All these are dirty. All these are worthless. Disturbing someone like this is not good. All these are rubbish. People are misusing the new technology. People get into trouble because of this and their work is hampered," he added. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury also hit out at the Centre over alleged "phone-tapping" and said the government is "using Pegasus against people who speak against Modi." "The Prime Minister says he promotes digital India but today we're seeing it is surveillance India. NSO is saying that its products are used exclusively by govt to fight crime and terror. But they're using Pegasus against people who speak against Modi," he said during a press briefing. Meanwhile, information technology minister Ashwini Vaishnaw dismissed the allegations in Lok Sabha saying the Pegasus report was an attempt to malign the Indian democracy. The reports, appearing on the eve of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, look more than just a coincidence. Former IT minister and BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad also questioned the timing of report. "Was it planned to break 'Pegasus' story before Monsoon session to create a new atmosphere?," he asked. "Not a shred of evidence linking Indian government or BJP to this entire Pegasus story. It is an attempt to disrupt Parliament, build baseless agenda in country as Congress is shrinking, losing," Ravi Shankar Prasad said. (With agency inputs) Source link Read the full article

[whittlebaggett8]

Modi meets Shah ahead of government formation

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a last round of consultations with BJP president Amit Shah and is learnt to have offered shape to his council of ministers in advance of the swearing-in ceremony of his new government in the night. 

The checklist of union ministers is most likely to be sent to the Rashtrapati Bhavan before long, sources said. 

Capping a landslide election victory, Modi will acquire oath along with a new council of ministers for a 2nd expression at 7 pm.

Modi and Shah have held various rounds of conversations in the very last two days forward of government formation.

Sources mentioned Modi government 2. is likely to have illustration from most allies and showcase the party’s newfound strength in different locations.

BJP allies like Shiv Sena, JD(U), AIADMK, LJP, Akali Dal and Apna Dal are set to be represented in the authorities.

Each and every NDA ally is very likely to get 1 cupboard berth, resources reported. 

The Shiv Sena has confirmed its leader Arvind Sawant, who defeated Congress heavyweight Milind Deora from Mumbai, will be its nominee in the council of ministers. 

The Lok Janshakti Party has now passed a resolution recommending its president Ram Vilas Paswan as the party’s consultant in the Modi government.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley’s final decision to decide out on wellness grounds has fuelled speculation about who will get his coveted portfolio. Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, who stuffed in for Jaitley and offered the populist pre-election funds, is currently being viewed as a critical contender.

There is also a excitement about Shah, who has been elected to the Lok Sabha from Gandhinagar and is a key architect of the BJP’s thumping victory of 303 seats in the Lok Sabha, becoming a member of the govt.

If Shah joins the Modi cabinet, he is probable to get 1 of the four main portfolios Finance, Residence, Defence or External Affairs.

The BJP has refrained from building any formal comment about the possible users of the governing administration, with its leaders asserting that it is the primary minister’s prerogative.

Senior bash leaders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Nirmala Sitharaman, Narendra Singh Tomar, Prakash Javadekar, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Dharmendra Pradhan and Smriti Irani are most likely to sign up for the 2nd Modi federal government soon after becoming its members in its initial avatar. 

Irani defeated Congress president Rahul Gandhi in his household bastion Amethi. 

The swearing-in ceremony in the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan is predicted to be grand affair with about 8,000 friends, which includes leaders from the BIMSTEC nations around the world, opposition leaders Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, chief ministers, corporate honchos and film stars, viewing as President Ram Nath Kovind administers the oath of office and secrecy to 68-year-old Modi and his ministerial colleagues.

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[lazyupdates]

Mahrashtra government on Wednesday took an extraordinary decision to accord the cabinet rank to a head of a Hindu temple. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis gave the chief of Siddhivinayak temple trust, Aadesh Bandekar, a junior minister’s status in his cabinet.

Bandekar, a Shiv Sena leader and popular Marathi TV show host, will now enjoy the facilities of Minister of State (MoS) in the Maharashtra cabinet.

“I won’t take any allowance; I just want to serve the people. The status of MoS has not been given to a man, it has been given to the position (Chairman of Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple) in which I am right now,” Aadesh Bandekar was quoted by news agency ANI.

Glass half empty

Although some have viewed his appointment as an attempt to woo the Shiv Sena, which has been routinely attacking the BJP while also embarrassing Prime Minister Narendra Modi; the Fadnavis government’s decision doesn’t appear to be focussing just on the future electoral gains in Maharashtra.

The appointment of a Hindu priest into a state cabinet is yet another manifestation of BJP targeting the Hindu voters wooing them along the religious lines. This comes just a day after the saffron party sensationally severed ties with its alliance partner, PDP, to pull out of the state government, prompting the imposition of the President’s Rule. The split in the alliance with the PDP was imminent simply because it was bound to damage BJP’s nationalism and pro-Hindutva agenda ahead of next year’s Lok Sabha polls. All these events have given legitimacy to the cynics among liberals, who’ve long held the view that Modi had failed on all fronts and had no option but to exhibit his hardcore Hindutva face more explicitly than ever before.

This isn’t the first time a BJP government has inducted a Hindu religious leader into the cabinet. Only recently, Madhya Pradesh’s Shivraj Singh Chouhan government honoured as many as five Hindu saints with cabinet ranks. That was, of course, to stop them from embarrassing the BJP government. These Hindu babas had threatened to launch a stir against an alleged scam in the Narmada conservation programme. That would have been catastrophic for Chouhan and the BJP just few months before the crucial assembly polls.

Both the BJP and PM Modi are masters of camouflaging failures through well-crafted deceptions. You need to analyse the developments of Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and now Maharashtra, and you have a clear pattern that is set to define Indian politics from here on. This pattern is dangerous, for it has every ingredient to bring the worst fear of an average liberal Indian true. A sinister force has started to convert a secular India into a Hindu nation, slowly and steadily.

Now cast your mind back to all those murders of Mulsims and Dalits by the so-called fringe elements. They were never fringe and the murders of Dadri’s Mohammad Akhlaq or Haryana’s Junaid or Rajasthan’s Pehlu Khan was not a case in isolation. What happened in Una two years ago was also not a case of aberration. They were carried out to build a vicious atmosphere, capable of helping the BJP electorally in the election year. The idea was to create the bogey of a Hindu nation to feed Hindu masses as opium if and when they question the BJP and, more crucially, Modi on its spectacular failures in governance.

A former associate of Ram Madhav earlier this week wrote beautifully just how spectacular the BJP’s failure has been on all fronts. Disenchanted, Shivam Shankar Singh announced in his blog that he was resigning from the BJP even though he had helped the party secure a phenomenal win in Tripura earlier this year.

Glass half full?

As I write this piece, I’ve had electricity supply interrupted over a dozen times within a span of an hour. I am fine since I live in a housing society and have the luxury of power back-up, which ensures uninterrupted supply of electricity all throughout the day and night. You should also not worry since at least you now have a Hindu priest in a state cabinet which would ensure that the religion is finally safe and out of danger.

Petrol and diesel prices have skyrocketed under the Modi government even at a time when the prices of crude oil in the international market has been at an all-time low. But should this be a cause of concern for us and influence our voting pattern? Not really since India is finally inching closer to becoming a Hindu nation.

Businesses particularly start-ups are bleeding because of demonetisation and the rolling out of the GST, but this mustn’t be a reason for you or your workforce to not record fitness challenge videos or display exuberance on Yoga Day. UK has excluded India from relaxed student visa rules, the UN has called for an international probe into Kashmir alleging gross human rights violation and Maldives has denied work visa to 2,000 Indians. But you must feel proud as Indians since there’s no bigger pride than being able to flaunt your faith. A mere chant of Jai Shri Ram and Bharat Mata Ki Jai would soon have all these nations eat out of our hands. I’ve always trusted my Hindu samrat Narendra Modi and still do, but what about you?

Most Indians still don’t have access to basic healthcare, free quality education and a roof on their heads to qualify as decent accommodation. But, you mustn’t lose sleep over these minor irritants. PM Modi’s fitness challenge should adequately take care of your health. Education is no longer a stumbling block to reach high in life. You can draw some inspiration from our own prime minister and Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani. And, as for homes, do have some faith in our leader Modi ji, who has promised to build free homes for every poor person in the country by 2022. This deadline is subject to change, but you ought to be patience as Mahatama Gandhi once said “If patience is worth anything, it must endure to the end of time.”

In the meantime, let’s celebrate the inclusion of Hindu priests into the  Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra cabinet with a hope that other governments up and down the country soon follow suit.

Why we must celebrate India becoming Hindu nation under Modi

The post Why we must celebrate India becoming Hindu nation under Modi appeared first on Lazy Updates.

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Shiv Shankar Singh Meets Vaishnav Community, Pledges Support

BJP leader addresses concerns at Birsanagar gathering, women’s participation notable A prominent BJP leader engaged with the Vaishnav community in Birsanagar, promising to tackle their issues and work towards solutions. JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh met with Vaishnav community members in Birsanagar to discuss their concerns and pledged support for addressing their grievances. The…

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'Shame on you' Pawar tells PM for remarks against Manmohan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegation against his predecessor Manmohan Singh over the Gujarat polls drew more condemnation today with NCP chief Sharad Pawar telling him "shame on you" and Congress president-elect Rahul Gandhi calling it unacceptable.

Key BJP ally Shiv Sena also launched a sharp attack on Modi, saying that dragging Pakistan into Gujarat election campaign was an "impious" way of trying to win the polls.

The prime minister at a poll rally in Gujarat on Sunday sought to link a dinner meeting hosted by suspended Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar for Pakistan dignitaries and attended by Manmohan Singh among others with the ongoing Assembly polls and a conspiracy against the BJP.

Modi had insinuated that his predecessor had colluded with Pakistan for BJP's defeat at the polls. The former premier responded by saying Modi was setting a "dangerous precedent" and asked him to apologise to the nation, a demand rejected by the union government.

Pawar criticised Modi for "deliberately" misconstruing the dinner meeting at Mani Shankar Aiyar's residence on December 6 and presenting it as a conspiracy by Pakistan to interfere in the Gujarat polls.

The meeting took place a day before Aiyar's "neech aadmi"(lowly person) jibe against Modi that led to his suspension from the party.

"Shame on you, Prime Minister for making such allegations. You have made the allegations against this country's former prime minister and former Defence officials," Pawar, a former Defence minister, said.

"Modi's government has not solved issues of farmers and other issues the country faces, but he is bringing the Pakistan angle as a diversionary tactic for Gujarat elections," Pawar said at a public rally -- 'Halla Bol' -- organised by the Congress and the NCP in Nagpur on issues relating to agrarian crisis.

Modi has demeaned the office of the prime minister, Pawar alleged.

Rahul Gandhi hit out at the prime minister for his remarks against Manmohan Singh while addressing a press conference in Ahmedabad on the final day of campaigning for the Assembly polls.

"What Modiji has said about former PM Manmohan Singh is not acceptable," he said.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the Shiv Sena said a prime minister is supposed to take action and not level allegations.

"Prime Minister Modi has levelled a serious charge that Pakistan is interfering in Gujarat polls. We can understand the worries of Modi but a PM is supposed to take action and not level allegations.

"Gujarat has become even more important than Kashmir. Until yesterday, Pakistan was interfering in Kashmir and China was interfering in Leh, Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh," it said.

Nowadays, in all elections, either Pakistan or fugitive underworld don Dawood Ibrahim is brought at the forefront, the Sena quipped.

"When sand below the feet starts moving, Pakistan and Dawood chanting begins. It is happening today as well. This is an impious way," it said.

The Sena further said that even in Bihar polls, BJP's national president had brought in Pakistan. Despite he saying that crackers will be burst in Pakistan if Nitish Kumar wins, the latter decimated the BJP, it said.

If the prime minister had all the details of the meet at Aiyar's house and knew the meeting was to undertake anti- national activities, why did he only level allegations and why were all those present at the meeting not arrested and an inquiry conducted, it asked.

"Why are allegations levelled only in election rallies? If an interference from Pakistan is happening, let the Indian Army enter that country and take action, the Sena suggested.

"The country expects Modi to work. How many times will you chant Pakistan's name?" 

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Former Jharkhand CM Champai Soren Gets Warm Welcome in BJP

Shiv Shankar Singh welcomes ‘Kolhan Tiger’ to BJP, sees boost for party’s vision Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has joined the BJP after leaving his former party JMM, strengthening the party’s position. JAMSHEDPUR – Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has joined the BJP, with party leader Shiv Shankar Singh welcoming the move. Shiv Shankar Singh, a BJP leader and social…

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Shiv Shankar Singh Distributes Sports Equipment in Jamshedpur

BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh supports young athletes by providing essential sports materials. Shiv Shankar Singh, Vice President of Kriya Bharati Jharkhand, distributed sports equipment to athletes in Jamshedpur’s Cable Harijan Basti. JAMSHEDPUR – Shiv Shankar Singh, a social worker and BJP leader, distributed sports equipment to young athletes in Cable Harijan Basti, Jamshedpur, emphasizing the…

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Shiv Shankar Singh Participates in Religious Events Across Jamshedpur

BJP leader and social worker Shiv Shankar Singh attends multiple religious ceremonies and prasad distribution events in Jamshedpur. BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh actively participated in several religious events across Jamshedpur on the fourth Monday of Sawan. JAMSHEDPUR – On the auspicious fourth Monday of Sawan, BJP leader and social worker Shiv Shankar Singh engaged in various religious…

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BJP Leader Launches Free Fogging Drive Against Mosquitoes

Shiv Shankar Singh combats dengue, malaria in waterlogged areas Key Points: • Free fogging operations initiated in New Cable Town and other localities • Campaign aims to curb spread of dengue and malaria during monsoon • Citizen Suvidha Kendra assists public with government schemes JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh has launched an extensive fogging campaign to combat mosquito-borne…

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Jamshedpur BJP Leader Inaugurates Multiple Ganesh Pandals

City-wide celebrations mark BJP leader’s visit to Ganesh Chaturthi festivities Key Points: • BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh inaugurates Ganesh pandals across Jamshedpur • Singh participates in various Ganesh puja festivals around the city • Leader offers prayers for residents’ prosperity at multiple locations JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader and social activist Shiv Shankar Singh inaugurates numerous…

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BJP Leader Shiv Shankar Singh Distributes Bleaching Powder in Birsanagar

Shiv Shankar Singh urges residents to use bleaching powder to prevent mosquito-borne diseases near Hari Mandir, Zone No. 7. BJP leader and social worker Shiv Shankar Singh distributed bleaching powder at his own expense to needy people in Birsanagar to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. JAMSHEDPUR – Shiv Shankar Singh, BJP leader and patron of the organization "Koshish Ek Muskaan Laane Ki,"…

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BJP Slams FIR Against Rally Participants in Jharkhand

Shiv Shankar Singh accuses Hemant government of suppressing youth voices BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh strongly condemns FIR filed against party members and supporters after Yuva Aakrosh Rally. JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh has vehemently criticized the Jharkhand government for filing an FIR against 42 named individuals and 12,000 unknown participants of the recent Yuva Akrosh…

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Army Camp Goes Green: Major Plantation Drive in Sonari

BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh leads environmental initiative with army personnel A significant plantation drive at Sonari’s Army Camp marks a step forward in local environmental conservation efforts. JAMSHEDPUR – Shiv Shankar Singh, an emerging leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Thursday led a significant tree-planting initiative at the Army Camp in Sonari to encourage environmental…

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BJP Leader Shiv Shankar Singh Launches 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Campaign

BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh launched the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign at Bagunhatu Kali Temple, urging citizens to proudly hoist the national flag. BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh, along with Baridih Mandal President Jeevanlal, kicked off the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign, encouraging people to participate enthusiastically. JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh inaugurated the ‘Har Ghar…