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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reiterated his dedication to the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), highlighting that his commitment to uniform laws for all communities in the state. The UCC proposes uniform rules for all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations.
Addressing a public gathering in Haridwar, CM Dhami stated, "After coming to power in the state, we pledged to implement uniform laws for all. Under the chairmanship of Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, the five-member UCC Committee has prepared the draft. This information was shared with me today itself."
He further added, "As soon as we receive the draft, we will convene a session of the Assembly and implement the Uniform Civil Code throughout the state."
The Uttarakhand Cabinet had previously approved the recommendations of the five-member panel tasked with drafting the UCC in the state during a meeting on December 22. The committee, led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, consists of retired Delhi High Court judge Pramod Kohli, social activist Manu Gaur, ex-chief secretary and IAS officer Shatrughan Singh, and Doon University Vice-Chancellor Surekha Dangwal.
The BJP had prominently included the enforcement of uniform civil laws in Uttarakhand in its electoral promises during the 2022 Assembly elections in the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing his views on the nationwide rollout of the UCC, asserted that a country cannot operate on two laws and highlighted that the Uniform Civil Code aligns with the foundational principles and ideals of the Constitution.
The move in Uttarakhand reflects a broader push towards uniformity in civil laws, transcending religious boundaries.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reaffirms commitment to Uniform Civil Code implementation

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has launched a scathing attack on Governor CV Ananda Bose in light of molestation allegations against him, stating that someone facing such accusations should not have the authority to address the Sandeshkhali issue.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Banerjee expressed dismay over the incident, highlighting that she has received numerous similar cases in the past, but chose not to speak about them. However, she found the recent episode particularly distressing.
The controversy arose when an employee at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata accused Governor CV Ananda Bose of sexual harassment, prompting her to file a complaint at the Hare Street police station in Kolkata.
Banerjee questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was present in the state, remained silent on the matter. She talked about the fear and trauma experienced by the victim, who has expressed reluctance to return to work at the Raj Bhavan.
Following the allegations, Governor Bose issued an order banning the entry of the police and Minister of State for Finance Chandrima Bhattacharya into Raj Bhavan premises in Kolkata, Darjeeling, and Barrackpore, citing defamation and anti-constitutional media statements.
Trinamool Congress leader Shashi Panja condemned the Governor's actions, stating that he has tarnished the reputation of his position and compromised the dignity of his office. Panja also highlighted the irony of the Governor addressing women's rights issues in Sandeshkhali while being embroiled in a scandal involving a staff member at Raj Bhavan.
In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come to Governor Bose's defence, labelling the allegations as a political tactic by the Trinamool Congress (TMC). State BJP chief Dilip Ghosh criticised the TMC's approach and questioned the depths to which they would descend in their political manoeuvres.
BJP MP Agnimitra Paul accused the TMC of filing the molestation case against Governor Bose in response to his criticisms of the TMC government's policies and practices.
The situation remains tense as both sides present conflicting narratives, with the focus shifting between the serious allegations and the political dynamics at play.

CM Banerjee condemns Governor over molestation allegations, calls out PM Modi's silence

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The recent discussions at Azim Premji University have sparked controversy and raised serious questions about the boundaries of academic discourse and the ethical responsibilities of educational institutions.
The focus of this debate revolves around the notion of "Annihilate Hinduism," a topic that has ignited a fiery debate and stirred concerns about the role of universities in fostering divisive ideologies.
Azim Premji University, situated in Karnataka, is no stranger to controversy, being situated in a region known for its blend of Islamist and Left Liberal ideologies. However, the recent discourse on "Annihilate Hinduism" has taken the spotlight, shedding light on the delicate balance between academic freedom and responsible dialogue.
The emergence of discussions advocating the annihilation of Hinduism within academic spaces has prompted a broader conversation about the role of universities as platforms for constructive dialogue and intellectual diversity. While academic freedom is crucial for the exploration of controversial ideas, it must be exercised with sensitivity and respect for diverse beliefs and identities.
The concern over the potential indoctrination of youth through such discourse is particularly troubling, as educational institutions play a significant role in shaping the worldview and values of future generations. The propagation of extremist ideologies, disguised as academic inquiry, not only undermines the credibility of academic institutions but also threatens social cohesion and harmony.
A notable incident at Azim Premji University involving Rishi Tiwari highlights the dangers of ideological intolerance and Hinduphobia within academic circles. Tiwari's ordeal, which began with a minor altercation, escalated into targeted harassment and discrimination based on his Hindu identity and affiliation with Benares Hindu University.
The social media campaign against Tiwari, coupled with the lack of fair process and swift punitive actions by the university administration, underscores the toxic environment prevailing within certain academic institutions. The rush to judgment and the absence of nuanced discussions further exacerbate polarisation and hinder meaningful dialogue.
Moreover, the issue raises questions about double standards in addressing hate speech and incitement targeting different communities. It is imperative that all forms of hate speech and discrimination, regardless of the targeted group, be unequivocally condemned and addressed with appropriate measures to uphold principles of equality and justice.
As the debate continues, it remains essential for universities to uphold academic integrity, promote inclusive discourse, and ensure that academic freedom is exercised responsibly in line with ethical standards and societal harmony.

Controversy at Azim Premji University: The debate over 'Annihilate Hinduism' sparks national discussion

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BJP MP Khagen Murmu, who is also the party's Lok Sabha nominee for Bengal's North Malda constituency, sparked controversy following a photograph depicting him kissing a woman on the cheek during a campaign event.
The incident unfolded on Monday as the BJP contender canvassed in Srihipur village of Chanchal within his parliamentary jurisdiction. Images capturing Khagen Murmu's gesture circulated widely across social media platforms.
Trinamool Congress swiftly seized upon the opportunity to criticise the BJP, denouncing the act as evidence of the party's lack of respect for women.
The ruling party of Bengal also took to X to voice their disapproval, stating, "If you cannot believe what you just saw, let us clarify. Yes, this is BJP MP &amp; Maldaha Uttar candidate Khagen Murmu, kissing a woman on his own accord on his campaign trail. From MPs that sexually harass women wrestlers to leaders who make obscene songs about Bengali women, the BJP camp has no dearth of anti-women politicians. This is how Modi Ka Parivar engages in Nari Ka Samman! Imagine what they would do if they came to power.”
Dulal Sarkar, vice president of Trinamool Congress in Malda district, echoed these sentiments, condemning the incident as contrary to "Bengali culture." He pondered on the BJP's mindset post-election victory, questioning the propriety of such actions while "begging for votes."
" People will decide this," Dulal Sarkar added.
Khagen Murmu, on the other hand, defended his action, asserting that the woman is akin to "his own child."
"There is nothing wrong with kissing a child. This is a complete grassroots conspiracy. They have such bad values," the BJP candidate said.
He further announced intentions to file a complaint against Trinamool Congress concerning their remarks on the kissing episode. "Parties and individuals are being defamed by distorting such pictures," Khagen Murmu remarked.
Moreover, the woman involved in the incident also came forward to defend the BJP candidate's actions, chastising those who deemed the viral pictures inappropriate. She argued that there's no harm in a man kissing a woman as he would his daughter.
"If a man kisses a woman like his own daughter, what is the problem with that? People who are making such incidents viral on social media have a dirty mentality. Khagen Murmu loves me like a daughter. My father and mother were also present when the picture was taken," the woman said.

BJP candidate Khagen Murmu's campaign kiss stirs debate; TMC attacks, woman clarifies

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National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah expressed scepticism on Wednesday regarding promises to revoke the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting it might be a pre-election tactic akin to promises made and broken about including Ladakh in the 6th schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Abdullah's remarks came after reports in local media quoted Union Home Minister Amit Shah stating that the BJP-led Centre would consider revoking AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir in due course.
“I am waiting for this day since 2011. We made a lot of efforts to remove the AFSPA (when he was the chief minister) as well, but I fear that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will be misled and cheated like the people of Ladakh were misled and cheated on the promise of the Sixth Schedule as elections are here,” Abdullah told reporters in Budgam district.
The former Union minister urged for immediate action on revoking AFSPA, citing statements by central leaders about the improved situation and the restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.
“As far as revoking the AFSPA is concerned, start from today. When they say the situation is normal and militancy has ended and there is no separatist thought left, then what are they waiting for?” he asked.
Reports surfaced quoting Amit Shah saying that the Centre is considering the revocation of AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir as the situation is improving, and change is underway.
During an interview with the JK Media Group, Shah also mentioned plans to reduce troop presence in the Union Territory, entrusting law and order responsibilities primarily to the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
"We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir police was not trusted, but today they are leading the operations," Home Minister said.
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act grants extensive powers to armed forces in disturbed areas, including search, arrest, and use of force if deemed necessary for public order maintenance. While the act has been partially lifted in northeastern states, it remains in force in Jammu and Kashmir, eliciting calls for its revocation from various quarters.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reaffirms commitment to Uniform Civil Code implementation

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