#Gujarat massacre

[probablyasocialecologist]

The section of the BBC film that the government of India has acted most outraged about was the revelation of an internal report commissioned by the British Foreign Office in April 2002, so far unseen by the public. The fact-finding report estimated that “at least 2,000” people had been murdered. It called the massacre a preplanned pogrom that bore “all the hallmarks of ethnic cleansing”. It said reliable contacts had informed them that the police had been ordered to stand down. The report laid the blame squarely at Modi’s door. It was chilling to see the former, but obviously still cautious, British diplomat who was one of the investigators on the fact-finding mission choosing to remain anonymous, with his back to the camera.

[...]

Though The Modi Question was broadcast exclusively for a British audience, and limited to the UK, it was uploaded by viewers on YouTube and links were posted on Twitter. It lit up the internet. In India, students received warnings not to download and watch it. When they announced collective screenings in some university campuses, the electricity was switched off. In others, police arrived in riot gear to stop them watching. The government instructed YouTube and Twitter to delete all links and uploads. Those sterling defenders of free speech hurried to comply. Some of my Muslim friends were baffled. “Why does he want to ban it? The Gujarat massacre has always helped him. And we’re in an election year.”

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 2.28

202 BC – Liu Bang is enthroned as the Emperor of China, beginning four centuries of rule by the Han dynasty. 870 – The Fourth Council of Constantinople closes. 1525 – Aztec king Cuauhtémoc is executed on the order of conquistador Hernán Cortés. 1638 – The Scottish National Covenant is signed in Edinburgh. 1835 – Elias Lönnrot signed and dated the first version of the Kalevala, the so-called foreword to the Old Kalevala. 1844 – A gun explodes on board the steam warship USS Princeton during a pleasure cruise down the Potomac River, killing six, including Secretary of State Abel Upshur. President John Tyler, who was also on board, was not injured from the blast. 1922 – The United Kingdom ends its protectorate over Egypt through a Unilateral Declaration of Independence. 1925 – The Charlevoix-Kamouraska earthquake strikes northeastern North America. 1947 – February 28 Incident: In Taiwan, civil disorder is put down with the death of an estimated 28,000 civilians. 1958 – A school bus in Floyd County, Kentucky hits a wrecker truck and plunges down an embankment into the rain-swollen Levisa Fork river. The driver and 26 children die in one of the worst school bus accidents in U.S. history. 1959 – Discoverer 1, an American spy satellite that is the first object intended to achieve a polar orbit, is launched but fails to achieve orbit. 1966 – A NASA T-38 Talon crashes into the McDonnell Aircraft factory while attempting a poor-visibility landing at Lambert Field, St. Louis, killing astronauts Elliot See and Charles Bassett. 1969 – The 1969 Portugal earthquake hits Portugal, Spain and Morocco. 1974 – The British election ended in a hung parliament after the Jeremy Thorpe-led Liberal Party achieved their biggest vote. 1975 – In London, an underground train fails to stop at Moorgate terminus station and crashes into the end of the tunnel, killing 43 people. 1983 – The final episode of MAS*H airs, with almost 110 million viewers. 1985 – The Provisional Irish Republican Army carries out a mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary police station at Newry, killing nine officers. 1986 – Olof Palme, 26th Prime Minister of Sweden, is assassinated in Stockholm. 1993 – Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) agents raid the Branch Davidian church in Waco, Texas with a warrant to arrest the group's leader David Koresh starting a 51-day standoff. 1997 – An earthquake in northern Iran is responsible for about 1,100 deaths. 1997 – A Turkish military memorandum resulted with collapse of the government in Turkey. 2001 – The 2001 Nisqually earthquake, having a moment magnitude of 6.8, with epicenter in the southern Puget Sound, damages Seattle metropolitan area. 2002 – During the religious violence in Gujarat, 97 people are killed in the Naroda Patiya massacre and 69 in the Gulbarg Society massacre. 2013 – Pope Benedict XVI resigns as the pope of the Catholic Church, becoming the first pope to do so since Pope Gregory XII, in 1415. 2023 – Two trains collide south of the Vale of Tempe in Greece, leading to the deaths of at least 57 people and leaving 58 missing and 85 injured.

[mullahusman]

Hashimpura Massacre

It was the 22nd of May 1987, Ramzan and Friday, just like today, when 'secular' India's most shameful and horrendous custodial kil-ling took place at #Hashimpura. That day, after the Friday prayers, in the midst of the ongoing Meerut riots, some 600-700 Muslims..

were dragged from their homes by army personnel, CRPF, PAC, and police and were made to sit on the footpath near Gulmarg Talkies. — The young and the strong among them were chosen, loaded in a PAC truck URU 1493, and taken to Upper Ganga Canal in Murad Nagar..

and later to Makanpur in Ghaziabad only to be shot cold-blooded and thrown into the canal. — This was totally an anti-muslim crime by the state, though the documented facts are known to everyone, three points are worth mentioning:

A) On May 23, 1987, at Meerut Circuit House, the next day after the massæcre, there was a meeting attended by Veer Bahadur Singh, the CM, Daya Shankar, the DGP, SK Mukherjee, the IG, Nasim Zaidi, the Ghaziabad DM, Vibhuti Narain, the Ghaziabad SP and other senior officials.

There were discussions that can the bodies of 42 be thrown away in the canal just like Malyana, never to be found? Could the 3 survivors under police protection also die? Would anyone expect justice from them? #HashimpuraMassacre

B) One of the survivors Zulfiqar Nasir had a press conference in Delhi with Syed Shahabuddin and Subramanyam Swami, narrating the nightmare he went through. There was a shameless press brief the next day addressed by Meerut DM RS Kaushik, SSP Girdhari Sharma, nd frmr SP VKB Nair.

Not only did they claim that no massacre happened at Hashimpura but also that no one with the name of Zulfiqar ever lived in Hashimpura. Shouldn't they have been punished too for propagating blatant lies. #HashimpuraMassacre

3) There were three 'Sarkari Musalmans' sitting at the vital position throughout the investigation. Just to show the Indianness in them, they did very little to ensure Justice. Syed Khalid Rizvi, who headed the CID failed to link the role of Major Satish Kaushik whose brother..

Prabhat Kumar, a RSS terrœrist, was killed the previous day; who was present at Hashimpura during the whole incident. Mr Nasim Zaidi who later became chief Election commissioner failed to act responsibly and tell the outside world about the heinous crimes.

And Ms Mohsina Kidwai, the then MP of Meerut who later became the General Secretary of AICC, not only refused to ensure medical care to one of the injured survivors but kept silent about the gory crimes.

— Hashimpura, like the Bihar killings of 1946, Nellie of 1983, Bhagalpur of 1989, Delhi Pogrom of 1984 and 2020, Muzaffarnagar of 2013, Gujarat pogrom of 2002, and numerous others remain a disgraceful instance of the merciless and barbaric use of brute state force..

and a spineless, politically expedient government lying prostate before its own men - The Killers. Hashimpura is not just an instance, it's a phenomenon that goes deep into the mindset of Indian society. Justice is awaited. #HashimpuraMassacre

"I wish the dead could have eyes for once, they could look into the Indian State with tears and anger and say that irrespective of any political party at the government, you have been inherently anti-muslim"

[tomorrowusa]

Social media barons once again kowtow to authoritarians.

Ethno-nationalist authoritarian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India has been the subject of a series of critical documentaries on the BBC. The rightwing control freak contacted numerous platforms to suppress the docs. He got a favorable reception from them.

Elon Musk Caves to Pressure From India to Remove BBC Doc Critical of Modi

Twitter and YouTube censored a report critical of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in coordination with the government of India, according to a top Indian official. Officials called for the Big Tech companies to take action against a BBC documentary exploring Modi’s role in a genocidal 2002 massacre in the Indian state of Gujarat, which the officials deemed a “propaganda piece.”

In a series of posts, Kanchan Gupta, senior adviser at the Indian government’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, denounced the BBC documentary as “hostile propaganda and anti-India garbage.” He said that both Twitter and YouTube had been ordered to block links to the film, before adding that the platforms “have complied with the directions.”

[ ... ]

This act of censorship — wiping away allegations of crimes against humanity committed by a foreign leader — sets a worrying tone for Twitter, especially in light of its new management.

Elon Musk’s self-identification as a “free-speech absolutist” has been a primary talking point for the billionaire as he has sought to explain why he took ownership of the platform last year.

It looks like Elon is willing to put aside his “free-speech absolutist” approach if it might threaten Tesla sales in India.

And a familiar (ugly) face is returning to Facebook/Instagram.

Meta allows Donald Trump back on Facebook and Instagram

Former President Donald Trump will be allowed to return to Facebook and Instagram more than two years after he was banned for inciting violence when his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Trump's accounts will be reinstated "in the coming weeks" with new guardrails "to deter repeat offenses," Nick Clegg, president of global affairs at Facebook's parent company Meta, said on Wednesday.

[ ... ]

Meta's announcement drew immediate blowback from civil rights and advocacy groups.

"[Meta CEO] Mark Zuckerberg's decision to reinstate Trump's accounts is a prime example of putting profits above people's safety," said NAACP President Derrick Johnson. "It's quite astonishing that one can spew hatred, fuel conspiracies, and incite a violent insurrection at our nation's Capitol building, and Mark Zuckerberg still believes that is not enough to remove someone from his platforms."

On Fb it’s fine to spew hate speech, encourage a coup, and spread pandemic disinformation as long as you’re a billionaire with lots of brainwashed followers.

I’d add that Nick Clegg, the Meta mouthpiece, is a former UK deputy prime minister. As leader of the Lib Dems in 2010 he got into an ill-fated coalition with Conservative David Cameron which proved disastrous for his party. He is an idiot whose only true skill is making it look like he’s more talented than he actually is. He is a hood ornament for Facebook the way Gerhard Schröder was for Gazprom.

Moth Meta and Twitter have been hurting financially with massive layoffs of workers. The decisions to censor on behalf of Modi and curry favor with Trump’s MAGA zombies have more to do with authoritarian money than anything else.

[biglisbonnews]

Twitter censors BBC documentary revealing Narendra Modi's role in 2002 massacre of Muslims in India The Intercept reports that Twitter and Youtube have both censored postings about a BBC documentary which exposes Indian premier Narendra Modi's role in the 2002 Gujarat massacre of Muslims. Kanchan Gupta, senior adviser at the Indian government's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, denounced the BBC documentary as "hostile propaganda and anti-India garbage." — Read the rest https://boingboing.net/2023/01/25/twitter-censors-bbc-documentary-revealing-narendra-modis-role-in-2002-massacre-of-muslims-in-india.html

[djuvlipen]

This is also the field I'm working in! (i'm only a master's degree student though, planning on getting a PhD one day)

The study of women during the Shoah was pioneered by Jewish feminist scholars (because of course men weren't going to talk about it). It was initally met with some strong oppositions by Holocaust studies scholars who feared a focus on the specific suffering of Jewish women would detract from the study of the Holocaust, and that talking about misogyny would take away from discussions about antisemitism and racism.

Particular shout out to Joan Ringelheim (right below), a Jewish feminist and scholar who attended the first conference on women and the Holocaust in 1983, and published many papers on the matter

Here are some books that I found particularly enlightening when it comes to gender and the Holocaust:

Women in the Holocaust, by Dalia Ofer and Lenore J. Weitzman

Different Voices: Women and the Holocaust, by Carol Rittner and John K. Roth

Resilience and Courage: Women, Men, and the Holocaust, by Nechama Tec

Here are some more books that undertake an interdisciplinary study combining both gender and genocide studies (an emerging field btw!):

Women and Genocide: Survivors, Victims, Perpetrators, by Elissa Bemporad and Joyce W. Warren (includes chapters on the Native American genocides, on the Herero and Nama genocide, on Armenia, Bosnia, Sudan, Guatemala, and the present-day Middle East, among others)

Women and Genocide: Gendered Experiences of Violence, Survival, and Resistance, by Donna Gosbee and JoAnn DiGeorgio-Lutz (includes chapters on Cambodia, the Bangladesh, and the Gujarat, among others)

Also another addition to say that to a large extent, Romani women suffered the same struggles as Jewish women (rapes, assaults, forced prostitution). The systemic sterilization of German Roma (both men and women) was implemented following the 1935 Nuremberg Laws (which did apply to Roma!). In Ravensbrück, Romani girls as young as 8 were forcibly sterilized. Romani women were forced to serve in military brothels in all of Nazi-occupied Europe.

The study of anything pertaining to the Romani Holocaust is really lagging behind, it mostly took off after the fall of communism with the uncovering of archives related to the Holocaust on the Eastern front. Prior to that, historians used to think there had been no genocide against Roma -- an idea that's nowadays discarded as more and more documental evidence attests of the propensity of anti-romani massacres during WWII. That's why the history of Romani women during the Holocaust is mostly unknown. Still, here are the very few existing articles we have:

"Romani women and the Holocaust: Testimonies of Sexual Violence in Transnistria," by Michelle Kelso, in Women and Genocide, Gosbee and DiGeorgio-Lutz

"An Austrian Roma Family Remembers: Trauma and Gender in Autobiographies by Ceija, Karl, and Mongo Stojka," by Lorely French

"Hidden Lives: Sinti and Roma Women," by Sybil Milton in Elizabeth R. Baer, Myrna Goldenberg, Experience and Expression. Women, the Nazis, and the Holocaust

This weekend I was schmoozing at an event when some guy asked me what kind of history I study. I said “I’m currently researching the role of gender in Jewish emigration out of the Third Reich,” and he replied “oh you just threw gender in there for fun, huh?” and shot me what he clearly thought to be a charming smile.

The reality is that most of our understandings of history revolve around what men were doing. But by paying attention to the other half of humanity our understanding of history can be radically altered.

For example, with Jewish emigration out of the Third Reich it is just kind of assumed that it was a decision made by a man, and the rest of his family just followed him out of danger. But that is completely inaccurate. Women, constrained to the private social sphere to varying extents, were the first to notice the rise in social anti-Semitism in the beginning of Hitler’s rule. They were the ones to notice their friends pulling away and their social networks coming apart. They were the first to sense the danger.

German Jewish men tended to work in industries which were historically heavily Jewish, thus keeping them from directly experiencing this “social death.” These women would warn their husbands and urge them to begin the emigration process, and often their husbands would overlook or undervalue their concerns (“you’re just being hysterical” etc). After the Nuremberg Laws were passed, and after even more so after Kristallnacht, it fell to women to free their husbands from concentration camps, to run businesses, and to wade through the emigration process.

The fact that the Nazis initially focused their efforts on Jewish men meant that it fell to Jewish women to take charge of the family and plan their escape. In one case, a woman had her husband freed from a camp (to do so, she had to present emigration papers which were not easy to procure), and casually informed him that she had arranged their transport to Shanghai. Her husband—so traumatized from the camp—made no argument. Just by looking at what women were doing, our understanding of this era of Jewish history is changed.

I have read an article arguing that the Renaissance only existed for men, and that women did not undergo this cultural change. The writings of female loyalists in the American Revolutionary period add much needed nuance to our understanding of this period. The character of Jewish liberalism in the first half of the twentieth century is a direct result of the education and socialization of Jewish women. I can give you more examples, but I think you get the point.

So, you wanna understand history? Then you gotta remember the ladies (and not just the privileged ones).

ask historicity-was-already-taken a question

[schooldekho91]

Freedom Fighters of India: Heroes Who Shaped the Nation's Independence

Introduction

India's struggle for independence is a saga of courage, sacrifice, and unyielding determination. The nation’s freedom fighters played a crucial role in overthrowing British colonial rule, and their legacy continues to inspire generations. These brave individuals came from various backgrounds, but they shared a common goal: to see India free from foreign domination. This article delves into the lives and contributions of some of the most notable freedom fighters of India.

Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation

Mahatma Gandhi, born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, is arguably the most recognized figure in India's fight for independence. His philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience became the cornerstone of the Indian independence movement.

Early Life and Education

Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. He studied law in London and later moved to South Africa, where he developed his political views and leadership skills.

Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience

Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and soon became a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress. His non-cooperation movement in 1920 and the civil disobedience movement in 1930, which included the famous Salt March, were pivotal in galvanizing Indian masses against British rule.

Legacy

Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence and his role in the freedom struggle earned him the title "Father of the Nation." His teachings continue to influence global movements for civil rights and freedom.

Jawaharlal Nehru: The First Prime Minister

Jawaharlal Nehru was a central figure in Indian politics both before and after independence. He was a close associate of Gandhi and played a key role in shaping modern India.

Early Life and Political Awakening

Born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, Nehru was educated at Harrow and Cambridge. His exposure to Western political ideas deeply influenced his thinking.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Nehru was a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress and participated in several key movements, including the Quit India Movement of 1942. He was imprisoned multiple times for his activities against British rule.

Prime Minister of Independent India

On August 15, 1947, India gained independence, and Nehru became the first Prime Minister. His vision of a secular, socialist India laid the foundation for the country's political and economic policies.

Subhas Chandra Bose: The Revolutionary Leader

Subhas Chandra Bose, known for his militant approach, was a formidable force in the Indian independence movement. His slogan "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom" reflects his fierce patriotism.

Early Life and Radical Ideology

Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha. He was educated in England and passed the Indian Civil Services exam but chose to join the freedom struggle instead.

Formation of the Indian National Army

Disillusioned with the Congress's non-violent methods, Bose formed the Indian National Army (INA) with the support of Axis powers during World War II. His aim was to liberate India through armed struggle.

Impact and Legacy

Although the INA did not achieve its goal, Bose's efforts significantly boosted the morale of Indian nationalists. He remains a symbol of defiant patriotism.

Bhagat Singh: The Martyr

Bhagat Singh is revered as a martyr and one of India's greatest revolutionaries. His daring acts of defiance and ultimate sacrifice made him a legend in the freedom movement.

Early Life and Radicalization

Born on September 28, 1907, in Punjab, Bhagat Singh was inspired by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Ghadar movement. He joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and advocated for a socialist India.

Iconic Acts of Rebellion

Singh’s most famous acts include the assassination of British police officer John Saunders in 1928 and the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929. He was arrested and sentenced to death.

Execution and Legacy

Bhagat Singh was hanged on March 23, 1931, at the age of 23. His fearless actions and writings continue to inspire youth and activists across India.

Rani Lakshmibai: The Warrior Queen

Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi is one of the most celebrated female freedom fighters. Her bravery during the 1857 revolt against the British is legendary.

Early Life and Marriage

Born in 1828 in Varanasi, she married the Maharaja of Jhansi. After her husband’s death, she assumed control of the kingdom.

Role in the 1857 Revolt

Lakshmibai led her troops against the British forces with remarkable valor. Her defense of Jhansi became a symbol of resistance and courage.

Legacy

Lakshmibai died in battle in 1858, but her legacy as a fearless leader and patriot endures. She remains an icon of strength and resistance.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak: The Assertive Nationalist

Bal Gangadhar Tilak, known as "Lokmanya," was a fiery nationalist and one of the first leaders to demand complete independence for India.

Early Life and Education

Tilak was born on July 23, 1856, in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. He was a scholar and teacher who founded educational institutions to foster nationalist sentiments.

Political Activism

Tilak’s slogan "Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it" resonated with millions of Indians. He launched the Home Rule Movement and was imprisoned for sedition.

Influence and Legacy

Tilak’s assertive stance and advocacy for self-rule laid the groundwork for future freedom fighters. His contributions to Indian nationalism are immeasurable.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man of India

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in India's independence and the integration of princely states into the Indian Union.

Early Life and Legal Career

Patel was born on October 31, 1875, in Gujarat. He was a successful lawyer before joining the freedom struggle.

Role in the Freedom Movement

Patel was a key leader in the Indian National Congress and worked closely with Gandhi. He led the Bardoli Satyagraha and played a significant role in the Quit India Movement.

Architect of Indian Unity

After independence, Patel became the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs. He was instrumental in unifying over 500 princely states into the Indian Union.

Conclusion

The freedom fighters of India exhibited unparalleled bravery and dedication. Their sacrifices and relentless efforts paved the way for India's independence. These heroes, through their diverse strategies and unyielding spirit, have left an indelible mark on the nation's history. Their legacy is a testament to the power of unity and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

[endquire]

[delhidarshan1]

Shaheedi Park, Delhi: A Chronicle of India's Valor and Resilience

Nestled in the heart of Delhi, Shaheedi Park stands not just as a green oasis but as a living testament to India's history, resilience, and the sacrifices made by its brave souls. Opened to the public on August 8, 2023, this park is more than just a recreational space; it is a tribute to the heroes who shaped the nation. Let's delve into the reasons why tourists, representing diverse segments of the world, should visit this poignant park.

1. Commemoration of Sacrifice: Shaheedi Park is a solemn homage to the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout India's history. Eleven sets and galleries showcase the nation's journey through different eras—ancient, medieval, and modern—using 2D and 3D sculptures made from scrap material. Tourists can immerse themselves in the stories of India's valiant heroes.

2. Waste-to-Art Innovation: The park is a marvel of waste-to-art ingenuity, constructed at a cost of Rs 15 crore. Artisans from Gujarat utilized 250 tonnes of discarded material to create sculptures representing India's historical epochs. The eco-friendly approach not only contributes to sustainability but also showcases India's commitment to innovative solutions.

3. Cultural and Educational Significance: For tourists seeking a deeper understanding of India's rich cultural and historical heritage, Shaheedi Park offers a comprehensive narrative. From ancient empires to the struggle for independence, the park provides a visual journey through the annals of Indian history.

4. Global Inspiration for Waste Management: The waste-to-art concept embraced by Shaheedi Park is not only a local success but also serves as a global inspiration for sustainable waste management. Tourists from around the world can witness firsthand how discarded materials can be transformed into meaningful art installations.

5. Varied Themes for Different Interests: Shaheedi Park's diverse sets and galleries cater to a wide range of interests. From ancient history enthusiasts to those passionate about India's freedom struggle, the park offers something for everyone. The sculptures depict tales of Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka, the Maratha and Sikh empires, the Battle of 1857, Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and more.

6. Honoring Unsung Heroes: Two galleries specifically dedicated to India's unsung heroes, poets, women, and children provide a nuanced perspective on the diverse contributions that shaped the nation. The park recognizes the often overlooked but crucial roles played by these individuals.

7. Recreational Facilities and Events: Apart from its historical and educational significance, Shaheedi Park offers recreational facilities such as a souvenir shop, food kiosk, and ample seating areas. The civic body plans to organize light and sound shows, patriotic movies, and other events, making it a dynamic destination for tourists of all ages.

8. Contribution to Bharat Darshan: Shaheedi Park joins the league of waste-to-art parks in Delhi, contributing to the Bharat Darshan initiative. With the success of previous projects like Waste-to-Wonder Park and Bharat Darshan Park, Shaheedi Park adds another layer to the capital's efforts to transform waste into artistic marvels.

In conclusion, Shaheedi Park beckons tourists from around the globe to witness the harmonious blend of art, history, and environmental consciousness. It stands not only as a local attraction but as a symbol of India's commitment to preserving its past and inspiring a sustainable future for generations to come.

[storizenmagazine]

#BookReview: "The Peacemakers," compiled by Ghazala Wahab and published by Aleph Book Company, is a compelling and moving collection of stories about those who have shown great bravery and devotion to peace in the face of bloodshed and war. This book, compiled by diverse authors, gives optimism in a country riven by communal violence and upheaval.

The book contains multiple narratives, each focusing on a different period or place in India's history. Rajmohan Gandhi focuses on Mahatma Gandhi's post-independence attempts to reduce violence in Bihar and Bengal. Nandita Haksar, a human rights lawyer, investigates the difficulties of establishing peace in Nagaland, a conflict-torn region. Rahul Bedi looks at the 1984 Delhi Sikh massacre, revealing testimonies of the criminals and the brave individuals who rescued lives.

The book digs into the aftermath of major events as well. Uttam Sengupta investigates how Bihar stayed relatively quiet following the destruction of the Babri Masjid in 1992, while Jyoti Punwani interviews heroic members of civil society who risked their lives during the ensuing communal craziness. Teesta Setalvad, a journalist-activist, shares personal stories of the 2002 Gujarat inferno and peacekeeping operations.

The stories continue to shed light on different areas of strife and resilience. Sunil Kumar delves into Maoist violence in Chhattisgarh and highlights individuals working for peace and justice in this volatile region. Teresa Rehman's inspiring story follows the work of a non-governmental organization that empowers women in Assam's once-conflict-ridden areas. Ghazala Wahab reflects on the optimistic years of 2005-2008 in Kashmir, documenting the sacrifices and efforts made by individuals seeking a peaceful future.

Ghazala Wahab, one of my favourite authors, analysts, journalists, and the editor of this book, wrote one of the most significant articles, Jammu and Kashmir, 2004-19: No Peace without Justice. Not just because Ghazala edited the book but also because her exhausting reporting on Jammu and Kashmir topics over many days has always piqued my interest.

"The Peacemakers" provides a ray of hope amid despair by highlighting the strenuous efforts of peacemakers across India. These tales highlight the extraordinary bravery, compassion, and perseverance of activists, journalists, legislators, leaders, and everyday residents. By sharing their stories, the writers encourage hope and motivate readers to rise beyond prejudice and violence.

Read here - https://tinyurl.com/2s3m9yts

[gadgetsforusesblog]

Naroda Gam riots: Victims are extremely saddened by the verdict after 21 years of waiting, this black day said. Survivors of the Naroda Gam riot said justice has been killed

Naroda Gam riots: The court declared all 67 accused innocent in the Naroda Gam case. All the victims are deeply saddened by this decision of the court. The victims speak of a black day. Naroda Gam Riots: Gujarat finally after a long wait of 21 years Naroda Gam massacre The verdict has been reached in the case. The court declared all 67 suspects in this case innocent on Thursday. Where on the one…

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 2.28

202 BC – Liu Bang is enthroned as the Emperor of China, beginning four centuries of rule by the Han dynasty. 870 – The Fourth Council of Constantinople closes. 1525 – Aztec king Cuauhtémoc is executed on the order of conquistador Hernán Cortés. 1638 – The Scottish National Covenant is signed in Edinburgh. 1835 – Elias Lönnrot signed and dated the first version of the Kalevala, the so-called foreword to the Old Kalevala. 1844 – A gun explodes on board the steam warship USS Princeton during a pleasure cruise down the Potomac River, killing six, including Secretary of State Abel Upshur. President John Tyler, who was also on board, was not injured from the blast. 1922 – The United Kingdom ends its protectorate over Egypt through a Unilateral Declaration of Independence. 1925 – The Charlevoix-Kamouraska earthquake strikes northeastern North America. 1947 – February 28 Incident: In Taiwan, civil disorder is put down with the loss of an estimated 30,000 civilians. 1948 – Christiansborg Cross-Roads shooting in the Gold Coast, when a British police officer opens fire on a march of ex-servicemen, killing three of them and sparking major riots and looting in Accra. 1953 – James Watson and Francis Crick announce to friends that they have determined the chemical structure of DNA; the formal announcement takes place on April 25 following publication in April's Nature (pub. April 2). 1958 – A school bus in Floyd County, Kentucky hits a wrecker truck and plunges down an embankment into the rain-swollen Levisa Fork river. The driver and 26 children die in what remains one of the worst school bus accidents in U.S. history. 1959 – Discoverer 1, an American spy satellite that is the first object intended to achieve a polar orbit, is launched but fails to achieve orbit. 1966 – A NASA T-38 Talon crashes into the McDonnell Aircraft factory while attempting a poor-visibility landing at Lambert Field, St. Louis, killing astronauts Elliot See and Charles Bassett. 1972 – China–United States relations: The United States and China sign the Shanghai Communiqué. 1974 – The British election ended in a hung parliament after the Jeremy Thorpe-led Liberal Party achieved their biggest vote. 1975 – In London, an underground train fails to stop at Moorgate terminus station and crashes into the end of the tunnel, killing 43 people. 1980 – Andalusia approves its statute of autonomy through a referendum. 1983 – The final episode of M*A*S*H airs, with almost 106 million viewers. It still holds the record for the highest viewership of a season finale. 1985 – The Provisional Irish Republican Army carries out a mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary police station at Newry, killing nine officers in the highest loss of life for the RUC on a single day. 1986 – Olof Palme, 26th Prime Minister of Sweden, is assassinated in Stockholm. 1991 – The first Gulf War ends. 1993 – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents raid the Branch Davidian church in Waco, Texas with a warrant to arrest the group's leader David Koresh. Four ATF agents and six Davidians die in the initial raid, starting a 51-day standoff. 1995 – Former Australian Liberal party leader John Hewson resigns from the Australian parliament almost two years after losing the 1993 Australian federal election. 1997 – An earthquake in northern Iran is responsible for about 3,000 deaths. 1997 – GRB 970228, a highly luminous flash of gamma rays, strikes the Earth for 80 seconds, providing early evidence that gamma-ray bursts occur well beyond the Milky Way. 1997 – A Turkish military memorandum resulted with collapse of the government in Turkey. 2001 – The 2001 Nisqually earthquake, having a moment magnitude of 6.8, with epicenter in the southern Puget Sound, damages Seattle metropolitan area. 2002 – During the religious violence in Gujarat, 97 people are killed in the Naroda Patiya massacre and 69 in the Gulbarg Society massacre. 2004 – Over one million Taiwanese participate in the 228 Hand-in-Hand rally form a 500-kilometre (310 mi) long human chain to commemorate the February 28 Incident in 1947. 2005 – A suicide bombing at a police recruiting centre in Al Hillah, Iraq kills 127. 2013 – Pope Benedict XVI resigns as the pope of the Catholic Church, becoming the first pope to do so since Pope Gregory XII, in 1415.

[zwischenstadt]

"Episode two of the BBC documentary, less seen but even more frightening, is about the dangerous divisiveness and deep fault lines Modi has cultivated during his tenure as prime minister. For most Indians it’s the texture of our daily lives: sword-wielding mobs, saffron-clad god-men routinely calling for the genocide of Muslims and the mass rape of Muslim women, the impunity with which Hindus can lynch Muslims on the street, and not only film themselves while doing it but be garlanded and congratulated for it by senior ministers in Modi’s cabinet.

Though The Modi Question was broadcast exclusively for a British audience, and limited to the UK, it was uploaded by viewers on YouTube and links were posted on Twitter. It lit up the internet. In India, students received warnings not to download and watch it. When they announced collective screenings in some university campuses, the electricity was switched off. In others, police arrived in riot gear to stop them watching. The government instructed YouTube and Twitter to delete all links and uploads. Those sterling defenders of free speech hurried to comply. Some of my Muslim friends were baffled. “Why does he want to ban it? The Gujarat massacre has always helped him. And we’re in an election year.”

[buzz-london]

Recently, India's most well-known film script-writer Salim Khan (Salmaan Khan's father) has said to a senior journalist in an interview: "Does anyone remember who the chief minister of Maharashtra was during the Mumbai riots which were no less deadly than the Gujarat riots of 2002?" Does anyone recall the name of the chief minister of UP during Malliana and Meerut riots or that of the Bihar CM when the Bhagalpur or Jamshedpur riots under Congress regimes took place? Do we hear names of earlier chief ministers of Gujarat under whose charge, hundreds of riots took place in post-Independence India? Does anyone remember who was in-charge of Delhi's security when the 1984 massacre of Sikhs took place in the capital of India? How come Narendra Modi has been singled out as the Devil Incarnate as if he personally carried out all the killings during the riots of 2002?" No speck of doubt about what Salim Khan has said. The criminal brigade has always been silent on Godhra Carnage that led to 2002 riots. When one says Gujarat's agriculture growth is 10-11% since whole last decade The other says 2002 Riots! When one says he made the Asia's biggest solar plant, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says Gujarat is the only state in the whole of India to provide 24*7 and 365 days electricity to almost all of its 18,000 villages, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says - World Bank's statement of 2011 said, Gujarat roads are equivalent to international standards, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says Gujarat is the first State in country to have "high speed wireless Broadband service in its all 18,000 villages, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says Forbes Magazine rated Ahmadabad as the fastest growing city in India and 3rd in the world, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says Gujarat Tourism is growing faster than ever before, The other says 2002 Riots! When one says according to central govt's Labour Bureau's report, Gujarat has the lowest unemployment rate in country, The other says 2002 Riots! When Narendra Modi is being chosen as the best current Indian leader in almost all surveys & polls again and again The other says 2002 Riots! When one says 2003-2013 are the only 10 straight years in Gujarat history which are totally riot-free, The other STILL says 2002 Riots! But when we remind them about riots which occurred during Congress and in Communist Party rule : 1947 Bengal....5,000 to 10,000 dead ...CONGRESS RULE. 1948 Maharashtra....2000 + Chitpavans DEAD..........CONGRESS RULE. 1969 Ahmedabad...512 DEAD........CONGRESS RULE. 1980 Moradabad...2,000 DEAD...CONGRESS RULE. 1983 Nellie Assam.....5,000 DEAD...CONGRESS RULE. 1984 anti-Sikh Delhi...2,733 DEAD...CONGRESS RULE 1989 Bhagalpur......1,070 DEAD......CONGRESS RULE 1990 Hyderabad......300 PLUS DEAD....CONGRESS RULE 1992 Mumbai....2000 DEAD....CONGRESS RULE they become totally deaf ..................because they have only one answer - Gujarat riots of 2002! Congress and Opposition Parties are hypocrites. The youth of India says:............ We are not interested in 2002, We are only interested in 2022 and our future. That’s why Modi has won CM post 3 times and PM post twice already!