27 september-03 october 2020 | Vol.11 Issue 38 | new | rs. 30.00

3 6 15 Congress will Stones of Czech out focus more on silence: this pocket MP than Ladakh and of resistance beyond against China Poirot belongs to Agatha Christie: SOPHIE HANNAH top of saturday NEED For REForM PM makes strong pitch S tock market mayhem key for ’s inclusion in UNSC

NEW YORK/NEW DELHI: Mak- ing a strong pitch for India’s weapon of anti-Modi alliance inclusion as a permanent member of United Nations Security Council, Prime Minis- A key calculation of the global alliance of groups that have coalesced to oppose Prime Minister ter , address- ing the 75th United Nations Narendra Modi is that the decline in economic performance caused by Covid-19 and other factors General Assembly in Hindi through video-conferencing, on Saturday said that “reform in will result in a steady intensification of public discontent. the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the ter Narendra Modi and by doomsday warnings about a manner that would affect vid-19 and other factors will movement against UPA 2.0. Modi government is expect- United Nations is the need of Madhav Nalapat implication, the credibility its effects is continuing to af- the confidence of the pub- result in a steady intensifi- This was before then Guja- ed to be this time around, the hour” and wondered as to NEW DELHI how long India with its unique of a government headed by fect business sentiment and lic in his ability to protect cation of public discontent. rat Chief Minister Narendra except that it will not be contribution to the United collapse in com- him. While millions of Co- economic prospects in India, the borders of India. A key The assessment is that by Modi took hold of the public Rahul Gandhi. Having Nations will be “kept out of the merce, reversal at vid-19 cases may have been a situation expected to con- calculation of the global al- the close of 2020, such a imagination as a possible bossed over the Manmohan decision-making structures” the hands of China avoided as a consequence of tinue into 2021. About China, liance of groups that have change in mood and public saviour against governmen- Singh government as Heir of the world body. Prime A and continued corona hav- the Great Indian Lockdown the assessment of those ea- coalesced to oppose Prime support would ensure the tal corruption and sluggish Apparent of the Congress Minister Modi also said India’s coronavirus vaccine production oc are regarded as the keys ordered by Modi on 24 ger to see a weakened Modi Minister Narendra Modi is beginnings of a repeat of income growth. It is unclear Party throughout the UPA and delivery capacity will help that would bring down the March, the phobia about the is that Beijing will continue that the decline in economic 2012, when Baba Ramdev who the face of the planned decade, it would have taken all humanity in fighting the popularity of Prime Minis- novel coronavirus caused by to nibble away at territory in performance caused by Co- became the face of a mass movement against the fP16 pandemic. “Even during these very difficult times of the raging pandemic, the pharmaceuti- ‘ FALSE OUTRAge’ cal industry of India has sent essential medicines to more than 150 countries,” said Prime Minister Modi. “As the largest vaccine producing country of Opposition leaders, MPs, the world, I want to give one more assurance to the global community today. India’s vac- cine production and delivery CMs had agreed on capacity will be used to help all humanity in fighting this crisis,” he added. (Full report on Page 5) urgent farm reforms SAD snaps Current stir by non-NDA parties is despite knowing that APMCs ties with NDA were looting the farmers. over farm el, Prime Minister Naren- the —who Abhinandan Mishra dra Modi—who had started were part of the Standing New Delhi Bills to work on the much-de- Committee on Agriculture, CHANDIGARH: Ahead of the Notwithstanding the vocal layed agricultural reforms which presented the 62nd 2022 Assembly elections in opposition in Parliament, even before the May 2019 report on 12 December Punjab, the Shiromani Akali in TV studios and on social general elections—had also 2019, among other sugges- Dal (SAD), one of the oldest media that has been mount- involved the state leaders tions and observations, had allies of the BJP, quit the National Democratic Alliance ed by the non-NDA parties and Chief Ministers, in- stated that the Agriculture (NDA) on Saturday after against the agriculture bills, cluding from the Congress, Produce Marketing Com- differences over the three the same parties had in in the discussion on how mittees Act (APMC Act) “controversial” farm sector Bills 2019, as part of the Stand- to bring about radical re- had become the “hot bed passed by Parliament. The decision to sever ties with the ing Parliamentary Commit- forms in the agriculture of politics, corruption and NDA was announced here by tee on Agriculture, agreed sector. This is contrary to monopoly of traders and party president and MP Sukhbir that there was urgent need the narrative being pushed middleman” while further Badal after the party’s core Hoping for a new dawn for radical reforms in the by the Opposition that the adding that it was “restrict- committee meeting late on agriculture sector and that farmer bills were brought ing promotion of multiple Saturday night. Without taking any questions from the media, the Agriculture Produce “suddenly” and without any channels of marketing Sukhbir Badal said Akali Dal’s Marketing Committees discussion. and competition in the alliance with the BJP ended, People perform yoga at the promenade at Marine Drive, amidst the outbreak (APMCs) were looting the As the rules stipulate, 31 system” which was hurt- taking the interest of the farm- of coronavirus, in Mumbai, on Tuesday. REUTERS/Niharika Kulkarni farmers. lawmakers—21 from the ing the farmers, especially ers into consideration. Not just at the Central lev- and 10 from fP17

CHINA-PAK NEXUS EXCLUSIVE STUDENTST A RISK ISI using Chinese Unrecognised Covid was made in Chinese military varsities hexacopters, drones to operate flood J&K with guns laboratory, says doctor who fled China despite in a laboratory. military ones. I was the even then. There were clear other co-head of the WHO Abhinandan Mishra secure the CPEC. New Delhi She spoke to The Sunday only one involved in that medical markers to show laboratory, Professor Malik blacklisting Abhinandan Mishra Indian intelligence agen- Guardian through Skype laboratory who could speak that human-to-human Peiris. They all knew it, but New Delhi cies tracking the develop- In an exclusive interview to from an undisclosed loca- Mandarin. My supervisor, transmission was happen- they hid it. My supervisor by UGC Hexacopters manufactured ment believe that China is The Sunday Guardian, Dr Li- tion. Edited excerpts: WHO consultant Professor ing. The government, how- told me to be careful and not by Chinese companies that helping Pakistani agencies Meng Yan, who specialises Q: How did you come to know Leo Poon, secretly asked me ever, was not allowing the to cross the “red line”. Dibyendu Mondal New Delhi are actively involved in Chi- to push into and in virology and immunology about Covid-19 virus? to do the investigation from people to talk about it as a Q: Why are you saying it is a na-Pakistan Economic Cor- as much arms as at the Hong Kong School of A: I was working in the 31 December 2019 to know result of which there was man-made virus? Several unrecognised uni- ridor (CPEC) projects, are possible before the onset of Public Health, which is af- WHO reference laboratory what exactly was happening no protection, no isolation, A: Based on my investigation versities still continue to being used by ISI-backed winter so that terror strikes filiated to the World Health in the University of Hong in cases of this new “pneu- no diagnosis of the cases; from 31 December and the operate in different parts of groups to smuggle into Jam- that have drastically reduced Organization (WHO), said Kong. It is also the top- monia” in Wuhan since he because of which more and study of genome sequence, the country, despite the Uni- mu and Kashmir assault ri- in the valley in the last one that the Chinese govern- ranked coronavirus labora- had to write a report to the more medical staff and peo- it is clear that the virus was versity Grants Commission fles produced by a Chinese year, can be resumed. ment covered up the dan- tory in the world by Elsevier. government. All this was ple were exposed to the virus. developed in a military labo- (UGC) repeatedly listing their state-owned defence corpo- The use of hexacopters gers of the Covid-19 virus in I was assigned to investigate happening amidst the lack Later, the government ratory. The genomes that are names on its website every ration, Norinco. and drones to drop arms collaboration with the WHO, this because I was working of information from China. started spreading that the found in the coronavirus year. These hexacopters were has been started by the ISI as a result of which the virus with them for five years and I started investigating my virus had come from the found in bats, were modi- According to the list noti- bought/gifted to Pakistan after it realised that the In- spread globally and infected I was among the core team old network and I found seafood market, which is fied to become harmful hu- fied by the UGC in Novem- by the Chinese government dian security forces were millions while crippling the members. I have got my that 40 confirmed cases a smokescreen. No animal man viruses. ber 2019, 24 universities are to secure the CPEC projects working on the principle of world economy like never medical degree and PhD de- had already happened in was involved as an interme- That’s why I decided to listed as “Fake Universities” and the T-97 NSR rifles not shooting at an unarmed before. Yan, who fled to gree from the two top medi- Wuhan by 31 December, but diate host, which the govern- come out because I know no by the UGC on its website. (manufactured by Norin- intruder trying to cross over the United States in April cal universities in China; so I the government had stated ment tried to make people one else will. The Chinese However, many of these co)—that are extensively into India. This modus oper- for fear of being targeted have a vast network among that only 27 cases had hap- believe. Communist Party (CCP) universities still continue to used by the PLA soldiers— andi of sending in arms and because of her exposé, also medical experts, practition- pened. Human-to-human Q: Then what happened? initially said there was no operate and take admission of were also gifted to Pakistan’s men separately has been said that it was crystal clear ers, hospitals, authorities, transmission was evident A: I communicated all this human-to-human transmis- students, but the degrees, di- Frontier Force, ostensibly to fP17 that the virus was modified laboratories, including the and had been happening to my supervisor and to an- fP5 fP16 the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 2 nation new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

SOME OMISSIONS On My RaDAR Nadda announces new team, M an Mohan C hina trying to disturb Naga peace talks In Nagaland, the Chinese have been trying to influence rebel leaders to create “internal unrest” and delay the drops some, retains others peace process. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has been alerted by the Intelligence Bureau about Chinese Tejaswi Surya appointed new chief of party’s Yuva Morcha; designs. The MHA has instructed the IB to engage Naga insurgent group NSCN (I-M)’s general secretary made national vice president. Thuingaleng Muivah. NSCN (I-M) chairman Q. Tuccu, vice-president Tongmeth Wangnao and 13 others are in Abhinandan Mishra Murlidhar Rao, Saroj Pan- the party, as a national vice while K. Laxman has been Delhi and have joined Muivah in the talks with IB officials. New Delhi dey and Anil Jain, who were president. Others who have given the responsibility to There are differences in the outfit’s ranks. Tuccu and working as general secre- found place from the state lead the BJP’s OBC Morcha his team decided to stay at separate locations, although JP national president tary in the party, have been include , and Jamal Siddiqui, who is accommodation had been arranged at one place. Jagat Prakash Nadda, replaced with Dushyant Ku- who has been appointed as the president of the party’s Bwhile announcing his mar Gautam, D. Purandesh- national secretary and Dar- minority mor- team of national office bear- wari, C.T. Ravi and Tarun jeeling MP, who cha will now head the Na- Punjab BJP leader dares ers, has chosen to retain a Chugh. As per party lead- has been made one of the 23 tional Minorities Morcha. few and drop some from ers, some of those who have national spokespersons. A The party’s SC Morcha will Akalis the existing position hold- been removed from their young party face from Bihar, be led by Lal Singh Arya, A senior BJP leader, Madan Mohan Mittal has dared ers. Nadda was appointed posts maybe inducted into Guru Prakash along with with the ST Morcha being the Akalis to break the alliance with his party. “The the party president on 20 the Cabinet. Madhav was BJP National President J.P. Nadda. ANI , Sudhanshu led by Samir Oraon, who is BJP is ready to contest all 117 Assembly seats in January. made the general secretary Trivedi, Syed Shahnawaz a Rajya Sabha member from Punjab,” Mittal, the party’s core panel member, said Among the notable and few in August 2014 and was also hya Pradesh. Former Union High profile party leader Hussain, , . on Wednesday. He claimed that several Akali, AAP and omissions that have been ef- the in-charge of Jammu and Minister Radha Mohan Varun Gandhi could not find , Rajiv Chan- All the three national Congress leaders wanted to switch over to the BJP. fected by Nadda include Kashmir earlier. Pandey is the Singh, who had not joined a place in the team after being drashekar, Rajyavardhan joint general secretaries, V. “The Akalis can form the next government in 2022 only if Prabhat Jha and Vinay Sahas- in-charge of Maharashtra. the Union Cabinet due to dropped as general secretary Singh Rathore will lead the Satish, Saudan Singh and they keep the alliance and the BJP will contest 59 of the rabuddhe who were national Union Minister Piyush Goy- his age, has been appointed of the party by party’s stand in the media. Shivprakash, who were total Assembly seats,” Mittal said. The Shiromani Akali vice presidents earlier. The al, who was the treasurer of as one of the 12 national vice in August 2014. Also miss- has been made appointed by Amit Shah, Dal has so far contested 94 seats and the BJP 23. “The other vice presidents who the party, has been replaced presidents. Former Chhattis- ing from the list is former the media in-charge, while were asked to continue in SAD cannot get a majority if they contest 94 seats and, have been dropped include with Rajesh Agarwal, who garh Chief Minister Raman Mahasrastra CM Devendra has been the same position. Similar hence, the BJP will contest 59 seats,” he argued. Punjab , O.P. Mathur, was Finance Minister in the Singh and former Rajasthan Fadnavis. made the co-incharge. is the case with national IT BJP chief Ashwani Sharma told The Sunday Guardian , Avinash Rai government Chief Minister Vasundhara Keeping next year’s West First-time Lok Sabha MP and social media head, Amit that there was no discussion on breaking the alliance. Khanna and Shyam Jaju. Jha in Uttar Pradesh. He will be Raje, who were appointed Bengal elections in mind, Tejaswi Surya has been ap- Malviya, who, too, stays in “We will react only to an official BJP statement,” said is likely to get a gubernato- assisted by Sudhir Gupta, as national vice presidents the party has appointed pointed the new president his post despite some senior SAD spokesman, Dr D.S. Cheema. rial post. the party Lok Sabha mem- in January 2019, have been Mukul Roy, who was upset of the party’s Yuva Morcha, leaders of the party pushing Ahead of the 2017 assembly elections, Mittal was at the Similarly, Ram Madhav, ber from Mandsaur, Mad- retained. for his alleged neglect by replacing , for his removal. forefront of a group within the BJP which had advocated breaking the alliance. He charged that the Akalis took a IN THREE MONTHS DOUBLE WHAMMY U-turn on the three farm Bills only after a farmers’ dharna Air India ferries over outside the Badals’ house. Rising pollution threatens to Cracks in Haryana BJP 12 lakh people under On Thursday, a day after their “secret” meeting at make Covid-19 situation worse Panchkula, five Haryana BJP leaders (all former MLAs), Vande Bharat plan said they would stand with the farmers in case the ruling and so does Covid-19. With also linked pollution with its eas”, published in the Envi- party fails to address their issues. The meeting, organised dibyendu mondal Dibyendu mondal increase in pollution levels, effect on recovery from Co- ronmental Research journal, by Parminder Singh Dhull, a former MLA from Julana new delhi New Delhi as we have seen every year vid-19. A study done by the has also found a possible link Assembly, was attended by former MLAs Balwan Singh during the winter months, Harvard Institutes’ School of in rise in spread of Covid-19 Daulatpuria (Fatehabad), Rampal Majra (Kalayat), Shyam NEW DELHI: Debt-ridden national carrier Air India, which The pollution levels which all of us need to be extra cau- Public Health has found that infection when pollution lev- Singh Rana (Radaur) and Buta Singh (Guhla). They said, is still looking for a prospective buyer, has ferried more rise quickly in the Indo-Gan- tious as the recovery rate even a small increase of 1 μg/ els are high. “Before being members of the BJP, we are farmers first.” than 12,69,000 people over the last three months under the getic plains with the onset from Covid-19 could be im- m3 in PM2.5 levels was asso- Pollution levels in cities While Rana was elected on BJP ticket in 2014, all others Vande Bharat Mission. The Vande Bharat Mission is being of winter could worsen the pacted severely since both ciated with an 8% increase in that lie on the Indo-Gan- are former INLD MLAs who switched over to the BJP undertaken by the Government of India and the Ministry of Covid-19 situation in India, Covid-19 and pollution affect Covid-19-related fatality. getic plains rise to extreme before the 2019 Assembly elections. Civil Aviation to repatriate Indians who are stuck in various doctors and environmental the lungs. Covid-19 patients Another study published levels every winter. States countries amid the Covid-19 pandemic. experts have said. could take longer to heal be- by various scientists from like Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s data, the Vande Doctors say that since Cov- cause of weak functioning of institutes like the Advanced Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, among He ro of the Zero Hour Bharat Mission has so far repatriated Indians from 94 id-19 is a respiratory disease, the lungs amid a heavily pol- Centre for Atmospheric Ra- others, face one of the worst Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was praised as hero of countries to different states in India. rising pollution levels, which luted atmosphere.” dar Research, Cochin Uni- pollution levels during the Zero Hour of the House by Parliamentary Affairs Minister The highest number of Indian expats who have been also affects one’s lungs, Dr K.K. Agarwal said that versity of Science and Tech- winter season when air cir- Pralhad Joshi, for his role in conducting proceedings of brought back to India is from the UAE. More than 4 lakh would aggravate Covid-19 the use of N-95 masks will nology, Ernakulam; The culation in the upper atmo- the House during Covid-19 pandemic. During Zero Hour, people from the UAE have been brought back to India in infection in affected people. be crucial during the pollu- Department of Atomic and sphere is poor, leading to members raise issues of public importance. Recalling his Air India flights that have been operating under the Vande Dr K.K. Agarwal, senior tion period rather than the Molecular Physics, Loui- heavy smog. earlier days as a parliamentarian, Joshi said a new MP Bharat mission. UAE is followed by other Gulf countries cardiologist and former regular three-layer masks, siana State University, Los Every winter, Delhi wit- would consider himself fortunate to get an opportunity like Saudi Arabia from where more than 1,63,000 Indians president of the Indian as N-95 masks are best suit- Angeles, U.S.; among others, nesses one of the worst pol- to raise a matter during the Zero Hour. Getting even one were brought back to India. Oman, Qatar and Kuwait also Medical Association, told ed for pollution and could in a research titled “Potential lution levels in the world, chance to speak during the Zero Hour was a “big thing”, added to a significant number of people who came back to The Sunday Guardian, “Pol- provide further respite to link between compromised when the PM levels in the he said adding that “you have become hero of the Zero India from these countries. lution which is caused by people. air quality and transmission air reach around 600 to 700, Hour, you give opportunity to everyone, so everyone is The Gulf countries have the highest numbers of Indian Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 Several studies conducted of the novel coronavirus making the air highly toxic happy. emigrant workers living and working and the sudden and PM 10 affects the lungs by reputed institutions have (SARS-CoV-2) in affected ar- to breathe. lockdown and the coronavirus pandemic had caused a lot of worries for these people after which the national carrier, vulnerable L S-RS websites not in agreement with the respective governments, was roped in to bring them back home. accessible abroad The Vande Bharat Mission also helped repatriate about Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has complained that the 671 Indians from Pakistan. ‘No credible data on rise in Rajya Sabha website is not accessible abroad. The party’s More than one lakh Indians also headed back home from chief whip in the Upper House, Ramesh tweeted that he developed countries like the United Kingdom and United has been receiving emails from students abroad saying States combined. It is to be noted that the USA at one point child marriages in lockdown’ they are unable to access the Rajya Sabha website. “On was adding the highest number of daily Covid-19 cases in checking I’m informed both LS & RS websites have been the world. The repatriation mission being carried out by Air Shaily Mishra in this arena for years. there’s a child marriage happening geofenced for a month, till mid-October, due to ‘continuous India has led to aviation industry insiders think about the new delhi According to the Union Ministry somewhere. At that time, our entire suspicious attacks’, and, therefore, can be accessed only importance of the national carrier at a time the govern- Sima (name changed) living with her of Women and Child Development team was on another case as it first came from India,” he said. ment is looking to sell off the debt-ridden airline. family in the Riga block of Sitamarhi, (WCD), during the lockdown period to us. So, we informed the administra- The sale of Air India, which was expected to be completed a border district in Bihar, was pushed between the last week of March and tion about the same and they handled it by this year, has now been pushed back due to the Covid-19 by her uncle into wedlock with the son up until June, officials received 5,584 really well. And, I was pleased that the pandemic. Sources in the Ministry of Civil aviation have said of a family friend living in a nearby phone calls pertaining to underage child marriage was cancelled without Indian firm sells stake in that the government is looking to further dilute terms and block of the same district. The loca- marriages across the country. But In- me ever going there. Two days later, the conditions of the sale as it could not still find a prospective tion of the district means it is exposed dia’s Child Protection Commission has same informer told me that in the end, Israeli defence company buyer. to many vulnerabilities, especially for stated that during the lockdown, there these people covertly managed to do Piramal Group, a global Indian business conglomerate with Sources in the Ministry also said that one of the terms children. This was the period when the was no data indicating an increase in the child marriage. Here, people marry diverse interests in pharma, financial services, real estate, which could be diluted in further rounds of bidding is that nationwide lockdown was imposed. child marriages. However, it had asked children at around 2-3 o’clock at night glass packaging and defence on Thursday sold its complete the government could do away with the clause that the She called a local partner organisation state governments to be more vigilant with a few people on the field,” she said. stake in an Israeli defence firm, BlueBird Aero Systems to new buyer would have to buy the airline along with its $3.3 (CHARM) of Save the Children India, about the danger due to reports of cas- The NGOs’ informers are also unable Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd (IAI). billion debt. The government hopes to find a buyer when informing that her parents and uncle es from official authorities of various to disclose any cases of child marriage The IAI, a world-leading aerospace and defence company, this rule is relaxed. Air India, which is currently being kept have forcibly fixed her marriage. This states like Karnataka, Telangana, Ma- because of the lockdown. In addition to signed an agreement to acquire 50% of the equity of afloat by taxpayers’ money, has one of the most prime as- was the “first case scenario” when the harashtra, Andhra Pradesh and West the limitations of on-field operations, BlueBird, which is a leading unmanned aircraft system sets in the country. Air India also holds some of the prime entire communication and action was Bengal. the main priority of NGOs in the past (UAS) developer and integrator in the small tactical arena. landing and take-off spots at the choked Heathrow airport coordinated over the phone. Many calls Dr Kriti Bharti, Founder and Manag- few months has been on Covid relief. The IAI is acquiring the holdings of Piramal Technologies in London. were exchanged between the police, lo- ing Trustee of Saarthi which is the first This has given families a safe space to SA as well as additional shares from Fiberless Access and The airline also has more than 100 fleet of aircraft, cal Panchayati Raj members, the Child organisation that annulled the first do away with a girl’s financial burden Ronen Nadir. Ronen Nadir will continue to hold 50% of trained pilots and staff, apart from having a specialised En- Protection Committee and Childline, child marriage in India in 2012, rec- through her marriage. BlueBird shares and continue to serve as the company’s gineering Services for aircraft maintenance and overhaul. and finally, the police with the “mukhia ognised by the Limca Book of Records Overall, data of National Crime Re- CEO. “(head men of villages) agreed to meet and included in the syllabus of Class 11 cords Bureau 2018 also says that 4% In recent years, both IAI and BlueBird have focused on the parents of the girl. The police met of CBSE Board, expressed her lack of of all the trafficking cases are for child vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities, a category the parents of the girl and warned them trust on data. marriages. that provides significant benefits to ground and naval and also convinced them to postpone She told this correspondent that the Speaking to The Sunday Guardian, Ku- forces. BlueBird has developed several advanced VTOL the marriage until the girl attained the number of reported cases is anyway not mar Nilendu, General Manager Devel- platforms, including the WanderB-VTOL and ThunderB- legal age of marriage. equivalent to the cases actually happen- opment Support, CRY West, said: “Be- VTOL. The company has recently sold more than 70 of the 23°c | 10°c 23°c | 08°c 23°c | 08°c 23°c | 09°c 24°c | 09°c 24°c | 10°c 24°c | 10°c The Sunday Guardian was informed ing. Being a field worker, she believes cause of the lack of any significant data, mentioned systems to an undisclosed customer. E 9 km/h WNW 15 km/h WNW 12 km/h W 11 km/h SE 3 km/h ESE 7 km/h SE 7 km/h about several instances of child mar- that the approach towards prevention one cannot say anything for sure, but 6:17 AM 07:11 am 07:11 am 07:12 am 07:12 am 07:13 am 07:13 am riages in lockdown like that of Sima by of child marriages is extremely bleak. I believe travel restrictions may have 05:30 PM 05:30 PM 05:31 PM 05:32 PM 05:33 PM 05:34 PM 05:34 PM different NGOs that have been working “A few years ago, I was informed that minimized the chances of trafficking.” Man Mohan can be contacted at [email protected] the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi nation 3 www.sundayguardianlive.com

WESTMINSTER MODEL Congress’ shadow panels, COOLBREEZE By Priya Sahgal

Twitter handles defunct Hot potato on his plate Jitin Prasada seems to have his hands full with his new wanted the panels to keep the leaders occupied with work. appointment as the in-charge for , especially with polls due in 2021. It’s not just the mercurial Mamata ment’s concept, where the inspired from the UK’s West- istry_Shadow, which were committees. PCC president, these shad- Banerjee he will have to deal with, especially given the Abhinandan Mishra New Delhi Opposition party leader minster model, was to keep described by the Congress as “Initially, there was a lot of ow committees and Congress’ on-again-off-again equation with her; he will “shadows” each of the mem- the senior and junior party an initiative to keep the gov- enthusiasm for this and we handles had generated a lot also have to ensure that the newly appointment state PCC, fter being reduced bers of the Council of Minis- leaders, who were dejected ernment accountable based worked diligently to prepare of interest among the vari- Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury keeps his ire focused on the BJP to 44 Lok Sabha ters. due to the massive loss, en- on constructive criticism, the content which was given ous state leaders as it gave a without sending too many stray bullets in Mamata’s way. AMembers of Parlia- Senior Congress leaders grossed in work and make started churning out criti- to these committees by going message that the Delhi lead- For whether they have an alliance or not, a Congress vs ment (MPs) in the 2014 gen- like A.K. Antony, Ghulam them raise issues against the cism of the policy decisions through Acts, ordinances, ers were not dejected due to TMC fight will only serve a self goal to the Opposition and eral elections, as a result of Nabi Azad, Mallikaarjun BJP-led NDA in Parliament. that were being taken by the and the policy amendments the loss of May 2014. strengthen the BJP’s chances. Can the Opposition pull off which it failed to get even the Kharge, Oscar Fernandes, As an extension of this NDA government. that were being brought by “However, this initiative, a Maharashtra type gathbandan in West Bengal and unite Leader of Opposition post, Ranjeeta Ranjan, K.V. Thom- initiative, the Congress also However, six years later, the NDA. However, the en- which should have become the Left-TMC-Congress against the BJP, the way it got Congress president Sonia as, Jairam Ramesh, Digvijaya launched the Twitter han- there is no sign of either the thusiasm started declining a permanent fixture, died on board with NCP-Congress? Not very likely, Gandhi had formed seven Singh, and dles of shadow ministries. shadow cabinet committees soon as the senior leaders as the party president could for too long the state fight has been between the Left and “shadow cabinet commit- Ninong Erring, among oth- And for the initial few days or of the shadow Twitter started taking the whole not make the senior leaders for them to patch up now. However, tees” in November 2014 with ers, were given the mandate Twitter handles like @Fin- handles. None of the shadow exercise lightly. Since they accountable. Once they re- Prasada, who is just recovering from a bout of dengue, the intention to monitor and by Sonia Gandhi to monitor MinIndShadow, @RailMi- Twitter handles exist any- showed no interest, we, too, alised that Mrs Gandhi is not certainly has his work cut out for him to save the West formulate strategies related the legislations and policies nInShadow, @UrbanDev_ more and most of the lead- had no reason to spend so too concerned about the fate Bengal unit from scoring a massive self goal for the party. to crucial ministries, includ- that were being introduced Shadow, @ShadowAgriGoI, ers who were responsible much of our time on this ex- of these committees and the ing defence, commerce, rail, by the NDA and “expose the @ShadowMinOfEA, @ for the shadow cabinets are ercise,” a media manager of traction that it was getting finance, environment. government”. FinMinIndShadow, @ now either sidelined, or have one of the shadow commit- on social media, the leaders, What next for Dr Kafeel? These committees were Another important reason CimGOIShadow, @Shad- no incentive to spend time tees’ heads recalled. too, stopped taking interest,” Will the government in Rajasthan appoint based on the British Parlia- behind this step, which was owDefenceIn, @HRDMin- and effort on these shadow According to a former he said. Dr Kafeel Khan as an assistant professor either in Jaipur or the Ajmer Government Medical College? According to CRUCIAL POLLS party sources a request has been made by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the Congress general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh. However, the Rajasthan government is a bit wary of appointing a state outsider to the post. But the request Congress will focus more on MP than on Bihar has come from the highest quarter. In fact, soon after the Allahabad High Court scrapped the NSA case against sources, Congress is mak- is mandatory for Chouhan it does not want to take any MP where he will be explain- the Doctor and freed him from imprisonment, Dr Kafeel AJIT MAINDOLA New Delhi ing preparations for two big to win the byelections to run chances. In fact, BJP strate- ing how the “BJP is toppling called on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra where he was assured rallies of Priyanka Vadra in the government comfortably gists, who were reportedly the elected governments” of her help and support. To recall, he had been arrested The Congress is going to fo- some of the Assembly seats in the remaining part of the behind the efforts to destabi- in the state and is thereby for inciting violence during the anti CAA protests and cus more on bypolls for 28 going to bypolls in Madhya tenure. lise the government in Rajas- weakening democracy. The spent seven months behind bars. Will Rajasthan give him seats of Madhya Pradesh Pradesh. Both the rallies Scindia had left Congress than, had suffered a setback entire responsibility of the sanctuary? than on the Bihar Assembly may be held in the constitu- in March and joined BJP there after Gehlot had sailed elections is on Kamal Nath elections. As far as Bihar is encies falling in the Gwalior this year. This had resulted through the crisis. The Con- who is running a campaign concerned, the Congress region. in fall of the Kamal Nath gress is keen to give BJP a jolt against the BJP. Bihar Polls is dependent on Rashtriya Chief Minister Ashok government and Shivraj in MP also more because of It is expected that the dates Will Tejashwi Yadav be able to wrest Bihar away from Nitish (RJD). Gehlot will also participate Singh Chouhan had become the impression that the “real for bypolls for 28 seats in MP Kumar? First he has to get his own allies to repose faith There are some sticking in some rallies in the con- Chief Minister with the help strategists who are expert in will be announced on Mon- in him before convincing the rest of the state. The RJD points on some seats be- stituencies adjoining Rajas- Plans are afoot for two big of Scindia supporter MLAs. toppling state governments day or Tuesday. After this, may have got a catchy slogan in place: Tez raftaar, Tejashwi rallies of Priyanka Vadra in tween the two parties in Bi- than. Congress is said to be some of the Assembly seats Now it is a big challenge for actually come from Madhya electoral heat will rise, with Ki Sarkar (Bringing in the Tejashwi government at a fast har. However, the issues are making all efforts to ensure going to bypolls in Madhya him to ensure the victory of Pradesh”. Congress planning to inten- speed), but it now has to deliver on ground. Incidentally likely to be resolved soon. its candidates’ victory in Pradesh. these MLAs who had left Scindia, who is now in BJP, sify attack on Scindia and the slogan caters to both of Lalu Yadav’s sons: Tej Pratap Though the Congress is go- regions where Jyotiraditya the same time, sparing no Congress with Scindia. was said to be close to the further its strategy to coun- and Tejashwi Yadav. However, the RJD has seen some ing to add names of Sonia Scindia commands clout. efforts to woo the voters by Both the Congress and Gandhi family. The Congress ter BJP. Though it is not easy defections to the JDU from its own ranks along with a Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and This strategy is aimed at set- announcing so many sops in the BJP have made these is keen to defeat Scindia’s to defeat Scindia in his cita- former ally Jitan Ram Manjhi crossing over. There is a Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in tling political scores with the constituencies falling in byelections a prestige issue. supporter candidates. As del, the Congress is hopeful feeling that the RJD did not do enough to nail the JDU for the list of star campaigners Scindia. Congress’ attempt is the Gwalior region of Scin- This is the reason why BJP part of the party’s strategy, of some positive results this its handling of the migrant crisis and has not emerged as a for Bihar, the possibility of also to convert these byelec- dia’s clout. Chief Minister and RSS are firmly behind Priyanka Vadra’s rallies have time. The Congress’ attempt viable alternative. And so just as Prime Minister Narendra these leaders going there for tions as a Kamal Nath versus has Scindia. The BJP high com- been planned in the Gwalior is to defeat the ministers loy- Modi’s fault lines go unchecked because of a lack of campaigning in Assembly Scindia battle. also made several announce- mand is also keeping a close region. Ashok Gehlot will al to Scindia “so that he could an alternative, it seems that Nitish may have the same polls is less. According to However, the BJP is, at ments to woo the farmers. It watch over the bypolls, as also be addressing rallies in be weakened”. advantage in Bihar as well. The BJP IT cell has already begun playing up this narrative, referring to Tejashwi as PEOPLE’S MOVEMENT being SIDELINED the “Rahul Gandhi of Bihar”. So either Rahul has to get his act together at “tez raftaar”, or Tejashwi has to reinvent L adakhis seek jobs, himself. Congress’ ‘raw deal’ for legal Just roll with it land security The never boring, always candid ex BJD MP, Tathagata luminaries, farmers, academics Satpathy has his hands full these days. His break from Noor-ul-Qamrain Parliament seems to have come at the right time, for he of extraordinary level. With a politician , who preme Court advocate K.T.S. is now busy being a hands on dad, as last fortnight he was AJIT MAINDOLA While the Central leadership of the BJP in Leh is busy pre- new delhi powerful and real leader from left BJP and joined Congress, Tulsi has been brought to blessed with a daughter and is only too happy to help his paring for the 6th general Ladakh Autonomous Hill Develop- the farming community miss- was given the responsibility Rajya Sabha, but his role is recuperating wife with the difficult night shift. However, ment Council (LAHDC) election to be held in October, most Is the Congress giving a raw ing, the Congress’ protests on of the Kisan Congress. But he limited to fighting cases for Tathagata was seen on NewsX Roundtable on a debate of the political forces along with all students’ bodies and civil deal to legal luminaries, farm- the road against farm bills is now Speaker in the Maha- the party. In other words, the on decriminalising the use of cannabis. If you recall, way society groups have come under one banner to boycott these ers and academics who are as- are clearly devoid of much- rashtra Assembly. The Con- role of lawyers in the party or- back in 2015 he had created a stir on social media when he polls, unless the Central government passes laws for the sociated with the Grand Old needed effectiveness. Bar- gress, as evidently clear, never ganisation has been curtailed confessed to smoking pot as a young college student and protection of their land and jobs for the youth. Party? If one goes by the re- ring Congress-ruled states, attached importance to this to an unsatisfactory level. even then had made the argument that since marijuana The man who was the face of BJP and introduced the cord of postings and positions the party’s protests are not department. What is also disappointing is was less addictive and less harmful than tobacco or alcohol party in every corner of Ladakh, Tupstan Chewan, was in the Congress, the answer creating the desired impact Likewise, responsibility of that new faces are not com- why was the government losing on taxable revenue by recently made head of an apex body of all religious heads, is in affirmative. in other states. The Legal Human Rights ing forward. Take academics making it illegal. As he says, banning cannabis is an elitist and students’ bodies and they put forth demand for the sixth There is a sharp dearth Earlier, there were some and RTI Department was for example. There are several concept. It’s okay to be seen with a glass of wine but the schedule to protect the regions’ jobs, rights, land, environ- of lawyers, farmers and leaders in the Congress who given to senior Supreme teachers in universities who minute you start rolling a joint you are labelled a charsi. ment, and rich culture and to prevent mass migration. academics in “Team Rahul” used to claim to be farmers. Court lawyer and legal lumi- are associated with Congress Moreover, he adds India banned it under pressure from the They have named it as a people’s movement and an- which comprises leaders who Now their sons’ claim to hail nary Vivek Tankha. But his ideology. They don’t show a US but now most states in the United States have legalised nounced a boycott of polls, urging all people of Ladakh to are mostly from political or from farmers’ families, but in responsibility is restricted hitch in openly supporting cannabis for medicinal and recreational use. Well the fight for the rights of the region and refrain from the elec- business families. There, of reality, they have nothing to within that limit only. In the Congress in their institu- debate on cannabis is one of the spin-offs of the Sushant toral process unless the demand for the sixth schedule is course, are some leaders in do with agriculture and culti- team of Sonia Gandhi previ- tions. But only a select few Singh Rajput case and certainly one needs to take a relook met. In a written statement released to the media, in which the Congress, who may have vation. There are departments ously, there were Janardan individuals are able to meet at some of our archaic laws and tailor them to suit the leaders of 12 different political, religious, and student bodies degrees in law, but the pro- and cells for the lawyers and Dwivedi and C.P. Joshi, who the high command, let alone Indian lifestyle. have unanimously called for a boycott of the forthcoming 6th fessionally established legal farmers in the Congress, but were academics. But the new the chance to get any organ- LAHDC polls scheduled to be held next month. luminaries are being side- those who are holding some faces who have been brought isational post. The poll boycott joint statement was also signed by the lined. There are undeniably position in these departments in the new team are mostly There are some leaders in BJP, Leh district president Nawang Sawstan, whose party some lawyers in Congress, are not given much impor- from political or business Team Rahul who claim to top of saturday is currently ruling the region. Nawang knows that he cannot but their utility is limited to tance in the party organisa- families. Senior leaders P. have farmers’ background. stand against his own mentor Tupstan Chewang who is fighting cases in the courts. tion and they are not given Chidambaram and Salman But, they are not farmers by drugs case heading the agitation. All the important political faces are on Sometimes, they are given prime positions. Khurshid, both lawyers, any yardstick. They did not this platform and it is a serious challenge to the BJP leader- Rajya Sabha seats in return, There is the All India Kisan have been accommodated emerge out of any farmers’ ‘ Nocleanchit to actresses, ship in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in union territory of but their role gets limited to Congress for farmers and The in the CWC. Both have been movement. They became Ladakh. It is in place to mention that Congress which has a that only. They are given rela- Legal Human Rights and RTI holding different positions in leaders because of their fa- can be called when required’ strong base both in Leh and Kargil had asked the adminis- tively less importance in the Department for the lawyers in the Congress. But they were thers who held key posts MUMBAI: Deepika Padukone, with her manager Karishma tration not to go ahead with the elections in view of growing party organisation. What is the party. The top and promi- not given important roles like in the Congress. When Ra- Prakash, was interrogated at the Narcotics Control Bureau pandemic and tensions in LAC. Meanwhile, there was a half- lamentable is that there is no nent posts in Kisan Congress and Bhupendra hul Gandhi had launched a guest house on Saturday by the SIT team, while Shraddha day general strike in Leh and other areas of Ladakh against important leader who is actu- remain vacant for most of the Yadav in BJP. The popular protest against the land ac- Kapoor and Sara Ali Khan was interrogated by the NCB the recent statement by BJP general secretary of Ladakh, ally from the farming back- time. Shamsher Singh Sur- legal luminaries of the Con- quisition bill in 2014, he got zonal office for five hours and six hours respectively. Also, Ashok Kaul, who termed the demand of extension of Sixth ground. Similarly, Congress jewala was president of the gress, Abhishek Manu Sing- support from young farmer Kshitij Ravi Prasad, Dharma Production executive producer, Schedule of Constitution for Ladakh as “nonsense.” The does not have a significant All India Kisan Congress for hvi and Kapil Sibal’s roles are leaders in UP as well as some was arrested after interrogation. Sources said that the three call was given by the Merchant Association of Leh against leader from the teaching a long time in the last phase limited to party briefings as other states. But the moment A-list actresses denied consuming any drugs, adding that the anti-Ladakh statement by Kaul and described him as an community. This is in sharp of his political career. He was spokespersons, while their agitation ended, Rahul Gan- though there are no second-time summons for these ac- outsider. Expressing shock over the comment, former MP contrast to the history of the a lawyer for a long time and experience can give party a dhi neither met them nor were tresses, no clean chit has been given to any of them. Ashok and main face of BJP Thupstan Chewang, who is heading party where its stalwarts such had been in politics in Hary- lot of benefit if used properly. they ever allowed to meet him. Mutha Jain, Deputy Director General of NCB, said, “In this the people’s movement, demanded an apology from Ashok as Motilal Nehru and Dr Ra- ana for a considerable amount Another lawyer Manish Some of those leaders were case many people have been questioned, many have been Kaul to the people of Ladakh for hurting their sentiments. jendra Prasad were legal lu- of time. After this, he got this Tewari is struggling to get a given importance in the BJP arrested. Whatever we have received so far, we will present Kaul’s utterances triggered massive protests in Leh. minaries as well as academics post. After him, Maharashtra post in the party. Senior Su- when they joined the party. in court and then further action will be taken.“ Urvashi Khona the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 4 nation new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com eye on South ‘CAGED PARROT’ Rama Krishna Sangem High Covid Laeft in keral objects only recoveries to CBI, not other agencies leading Housing for the poor launched by Vijayan government is under CBI scanner.

erate social development in Congress and BJP digging backed by the state Finance two months claimed that the to public Santosh Kumar Minister Thomas Isaac who NIA and the ED had been New Delhi many ways, the Government out the involvement of a of Kerala launched Mission Minister, close to Pinarayi, was sitting beside John Brit- probing the gold smuggling complacency t seems that Kerala, the LIFE in 2018. The target of too, in the smuggling racket. tas, the media advisor when case at the behest of the Chief only remaining Left- the mission is to provide safe K.T. Jaleel, Minister for he made the comment. The Minister, is now crying foul, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his video conference with Iruled state in the country, housing to nearly 4.30 lakh Higher Education, Welfare Chief Minister, however, re- saying CBI has been brought seven most Covid-19 affected states’ chief ministers on Wednes- has become the latest hub of homeless in the state within of Minorities, Wakf and Hajj, fused to acknowledge this, in to settle political scores. day, stressed on the need to micromanage the areas where the Central intelligence agencies. a period of five years. It is this was found close to Swapna saying his media advisor The CPM state secretariat situation is still alarming. The higher rate of recoveries—around Investigating a slew of cases project which has now come Suresh and she, in turn, does not have any role in the said in a statement that “the 82%—in these states is leading to complacency among the relating to an unprecedented under the scanner of the CBI, had allegedly used Jaleel day-to-day running of the BJP is misusing investigat- public who are ignoring safety measures, it was observed at gold smuggling case involv- much to the embarrassment to smuggle gold under the government. Regarding his ing agencies for their politi- the meet. The compulsions to come out for their livelihoods, ing a foreign country, UAE, and resentment of the state cover of import of Quran. Finance Minister, Pinarayi cal end. The probe order is the revival of traffic on the busy streets to near pre-Covid levels with whom the nation has government. The case per- Though Jaleel vehemently dodged in his characteristic an outcome of a nexus be- and relatively easy process of recovery are prompting the public the warmest of relations, tains to criminal conspiracy The Opposition brought denies having any knowl- wry smile. tween the Congress and the to neglect the strict safety measures which they had followed the nation’s top investigation and Foreign Exchange Reg- to light the scam after the edge of smuggling of gold, Though on Wednesday, BJP. The case was registered till a month ago. Interestingly, the cost of hospitalization, too, agencies such as Customs, ulation Act (FERA) viola- gold smuggling case was the ED and NIA have al- the state government had violating all precedents”. in both the public and private clinics, has come down, thanks Enforcement Directorate, tions in the construction of unearthed involving one of ready questioned him a cou- ordered a Vigilance enquiry Marxists’ dislike for the CBI to governmental initiatives. Income Tax Department, a 140-apartment complex the former employees of the ple of times. Simultaneously, into the scam, something is all too well known. The PM Modi held an hour-long interaction with these CMs as the National Investigation in a municipality in Wadak- UAE Consulate in state capi- the financial scam involving which the CM had refused party over the years had their states account for two-thirds of the total positive cases in Agency are already camp- kanchery in central Thris- tal Thiruvananthapuram. one of the projects of Mission to do for the past one-and- been blocking any investi- the country. Besides three southern states—Andhra Pradesh, ing in the state. Added to sur district, signed between However, she turned out to LIFE surfaced, once again a-half months, it was all too gation by CBI into many po- Karnataka and Tamil Nadu—Maharashtra, Punjab, Uttar them is the latest entrant, the UAE Red Crescent and a be still calling the shots in brought out by the Congress clear that the CBI was lurk- litical murders where CPM Pradesh and Delhi, too, were covered by the PM. He told the the Central Bureau of Inves- Kerala-based building com- her previous office. The em- MLA representing Wadak- ing behind. It is also interest- workers figure prominently CMs to involve a large number of grassroots public representa- tigation, probing financial ir- pany UNITAC. Emirates ployee concerned, Swapna kanchery constituency. The ing to note that the state gov- among the accused, fearing tives in the Covid-19 containment strategies. regularities in an ambitious Red Crescent is the UAE Suresh, supposed to be the key accused in the smug- ernment which had denied a that ultimately the role of The pandemic situation in the country seems nearing plateau, housing project for the poor affiliate of the International kingpin of the smuggling gling case, Swapna Suresh, copy of the MoU of the Wa- the leadership in the heinous though its incidence is severe in some districts. As per the launched by the ruling Left Red Cross and Red Crescent racket, has had allegedly supposedly confessed to dakkanchery project even to crimes would be brought to PM, the condition in 60 out of the total around 700 districts Front government led by Societies. The MoU for the tremendous influence in the the ED and NIA that a sum the Leader of the Opposition light. in the country is causing concern. While complimenting the CPM strongman Pinarayi project at Wadakkanchery Chief Minister’s Office, es- of Rs 4.25 crore had been despite repeated requests, The big political question CMs for the increased number of tests, the PM asked them Vijayan. According to the of- was signed between Red pecially Pinarayi Vijayan’s paid as commission in the all of sudden provided the being asked in Kerala today to focus on “micro-containment zones” in the days to come. ficial web portal of the Gov- Crescent and Kochi-based Principal Secretary M. Siv housing project of which very same immediately af- is why CPM is so scared of Several CMs, including Andhra Pradesh’s Y.S. Jagan Mohan ernment of Kerala, Mission private builder UNITAC on Sankar. Following the rev- over Rs 1crore had gone to ter the announcement of the a CBI probe while it has no Reddy, had agreed with the PM on this and felt that the higher LIFE (Livelihood Inclusion 11 July 2019 in Thiruvana- elations, the Chief Minister her. To make things worse vigilance probe. Even me- hesitation in welcoming recovery rate–around 82%–had led to complacency among and Financial Empower- nthapuram by the project’s who initially tried to protect for the ruling government, dia organisations that had other central agencies to the people as well as in the public health staff. Safety measures ment) envisages a compre- CEO U.V. Jose and represen- his all-powerful secretary, one of the press advisors moved for the same through state. Only the CPM leader- like social distancing, mask wearing and sanitisation at every hensive housing scheme for tatives of Red Crescent. Chief had to finally remove him, of the Chief Minister who RTI, too, were given a copy ship can answer this: why house and office seem to have been neglected in many areas. all the landless and homeless Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but the political controversy also heads ruling CPM’s TV after about one-and-a-half the CBI is a “caged parrot” Andhra Pradesh, which drastically stepped up testing since in the state. Housing being who is the chairman of Mis- regarding the involvement channel Kairali, too, went months. while NIA and ED are “free June, is able to bring down the daily average case from above the very basic requirement sion LIFE, was present on of the CMO refused to die on record that he was aware The Left Front govern- birds” floating freely in the 10,000 two months ago to around 7,300 now. Similarly, the that holds the key to accel- the occasion. down with the Opposition of the kickback. He was ment which had in the past Kerala skyline! number of deaths per day too came down from around 100 five weeks ago to below 50 now. The PM complimented the ATTACKS ON TEMBLES CM for the improvements, but told him to intensify efforts to further bring down these numbers. The PM expressed satisfaction over the measures taken by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, too, as they are showing some Andhra sees emergence of ‘Hindu politics’ downward trends in both the positive cases and deaths. Hith- erto Covid hotspots–Chennai and Bangalore–are better now, ‘TDP’s embrace of BJP’s agenda may not prove politically beneficial for it’. as most of the cases are being reported from the rural areas of these two states. Interestingly, the PM suggested the CMs to agenda may not prove to be Hindu idols’ desecration Venkateswara temple along filed any cases against him activists. It is negligence Lokeswara Rao involve village elders in the Covid containment efforts as their Hyderabad politically beneficial for it. are very unfortunate. Op- with wife. He said, “Why despite our complaints. He against attacks on Hindu influence or persuasive skills will be useful at the local level. Such an orchestrated polit- position parties are trying PM Modi did not take his should be sacked from the temples. We have requested At the same time, it was also discussed to improve facilities at For the first time, Andhra ico-religious campaign in- to imply that YSRCP is an wife to Ayodhya Bhoomi ministry. If he is not sacked, the Central government to the primary health centers in rural areas. PM Modi agreed to Pradesh has become a plat- spired by the BJP and avidly anti-Hindu party and in- Poojan?”, and “With whom we deem it as provocation act in an unbiased manner increase states’ powers to spend on Covid from their disaster form for a new kind of poli- followed by the TDP would dulged in those attacks. It should Yogi Adityanath by CM Jaganmohan Reddy.” and in accordance with the relief funds from 35% to 50% now. The PM’s videoconference tics—it is witnessing fun- only yield political gains for is an utter lie. In fact, it is go to temple?” These com- The BJP has been accusing Constitutional mandate.18 seems to have a purpose—of bringing down both the positive damental politics centered the BJP. This may divide the Chandrababu Naidu who ments sparked controversy the government of Andhra attacks have taken place on cases and deaths from these high intensity states, so that the around religious identities. anti-incumbency vote in the had demolished temples in Andhra BJP cadre. So BJP Pradesh that after Jagan- Hindu temples in a year.” country would be free of the pandemic very soon. Once India It is true that religion plays upcoming Panchayati Raj in Vijayawada at the time leaders and cadre protested mohan Reddy took charge Chief Minister Jaganmohan reaches that level, then the Centre can focus its attention on some role in Telangana, but elections. of Krishna Pushkarams. It across Andhra Pradesh. as the CM, there has been a Reddy entered the Tirumala other related matters of distribution of vaccines in the near it has never played a role But the YSRCP is strongly was the attack on . They demanded the im- spike of attacks on temples, shrine (Lord Venkateswara future. After the PM’s interaction on Wednesday, there is a in Andhra Pradesh. The defending itself by say- The Opposition parties are mediate dismissal of Kodali and the BJP is of the opinion Swamy) without signing general sense of relief among the state officials on the overall Christian religious beliefs ing the attacks on temple spreading lies.” Nani from the ministry and that these are happening the faith declaration form as situation. The assurance of additional funds and concentrated of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan- are the handiwork of some Of late, Andhra Pradesh an unconditional apology. with the support of the rul- demanded by the Opposi- focus on containing the virus spread are expected to yield mohan Reddy’s family are miscreants and stringent Civil Supplies Minister But police house arrested ing YSRCP or its negligence. tion parties, mainly the BJP, results in the coming weeks. India, after reporting its first at the centre of the opposi- action will be taken against Kodali Nani made some in- a number of protesting BJP national spokes- TDP and Jana Sena. It also Covid case 34 weeks ago, recorded a total of 56.46 lakh posi- tion’s political battle. TDP them and the Antarvedi flammatory religious com- BJP leaders and activists. man MP G.V.L. Narasimha created another controversy tive cases, while 45.87 lakh of them recovered (81.25%). One president Chandrababu temple chariot burning case ments like there won’t be BJP leader Vishnuvardhan Rao and another MP CM in Andhra Pradesh. important point of the PM’s suggestions to the CMs is that Naidu repeatedly questions was handed over to CBI. Its any problem for gods due to Reddy participated in the Ramesh complained to Andhra is not a religion the Centre is keen on continuing to open up the economy and the CM’s beliefs. He is pre- party leader and spokes- the attacks. The chariots will dharna held in Vijayawada. the Union Home Minister sensitive place. There is no bringing public life to pre-Covid levels at the earliest, without cisely following in the foot- man Ambati Rambabu be repaired and the idols will Vishnuvardhan Reddy told Amit Shah for the Centre’s Hindu-Muslim divide in pol- compromising on safety measures. The Unlock-5.0 guidelines, prints of the BJP’s political said that Opposition leader be replaced. Instead of pun- The Sunday Guardian: “How involvement in the AP law itics. But there were many which might be announced by next week, are expected to add agenda. Recent incidents in Chandrababu Naidu, when ishment to the culprits, he long can Jaganmohan Reddy and order situation. G.V.L. conversions into Christian- some more areas to the list of allowed activities. If the situation the state like attacks on idols he was the CM, demolished spoke about repairs. do vote bank politics? Minis- Narasimha Rao deplored ity. On the basis of this, the in these seven states improves, the number of deaths as well of deities and faith declara- temples in Vijayawada in Nani made another round ter Kodali Nani is provoking that the attacks were going Opposition parties would as positive cases would drastically fall. One improvement is tion in Tirumala have given the time of Krishna Push- of controversial comments the Hindus. Is he qualified on unchecked on the tem- like to consolidate the Hindu that the Covid death rate which stood at 1.87% of the positive ammunition to the TDP karam which was an attack when Jagan Mohan Reddy enough to make statements ples. Rao said, “The Andhra vote bank. But it is not cer- cases a month ago, has come down to 1.59% now. This is much boss to go aggressive. But on Hindutva. Rambabu was asked by the Opposi- on Modi and Yogi Aditya- Pradesh government is act- tain whether they can do it lower than that of the global average and that of the US too. TDP’s embrace of the BJP’s said: “Recent incidents of tion parties to go to Lord nath? Why has police not ing vengefully on Hindu or not.

POLITICAL CHURN VULNERABLE Mainstream politics trying to Killing of lawyer, BDC chief reinvent itself in Kashmir raises security concerns at outside the Parlia- In his first interview after spective of Kashmir, and the FIR against the person who and grief at the killing of ad- Earlier, unidentified gun- Noor-ul-Qamrain ment with placards in his remaining under detention geopolitical footprint of Kash- Noor-ul-Qamrain was involved in a smear vocate Qadri at his residence. men killed Bhupinder Singh, Srinagar Srinagar hands showing the pictures for more than a year, Sajjad mir,” Sajad further wrote in campaign dubbing him to The Jammu and Kashmir affiliated to the BJP, at his From Abdullahs to Muf- of victims. He protested also Gani Lone, a former minister, his blog. The killing of Bhupinder be working for agencies. Police on Friday said it has ancestral village despite the tis to Sajjad Gani Lone, all for the restoration of Article said that mainstream political Farooq Abdullah, sensing Singh, chairman of the Block Police did not act, but gun- constituted a special investi- fact that he had security mainstream political lead- 370, and said that without leaders will have to convince trouble on the ground, said, Development Council (BDC) men came to his house on gation team to probe Babar cover. Police said that he was ers of Kashmir are trying to giving back special status to people in Kashmir that they “Kashmiris are slaves and Khag, in central Kashmir of Thursday evening and killed Qadri’s killing. IGP Police wounded after an attack and keep themselves relevant in the people of Kashmir, there are for them. “5 August was a treated like second class citi- , and Babar Qadri, a him at his Hawal residence said that they will soon ei- later succumbed to injuries. Kashmir by trying to distance can be no peace. dark day for me, a day as dark zens.” He said that the new prominent lawyer and tele- in Srinagar. Some local re- ther arrest or neutralise Police further said that he themselves from the Centre Recently, Farooq Abdul- as it can get. I see 5 August domicile law was, “intended vision debater, by unknown ports blamed some sections those persons responsible had two PSOs for personal and trying to fill the space of lah in an interview said that as an unconscionable act of to flood the Valley with Hin- gunmen in the past two of separatists for the killing for Qadri’s killing. “He (Qa- security, had dropped the separatists who are silent post Kashmiri people do not feel betrayal of the Kashmiri dus and create a Hindu ma- days, has raised a question of Babar Qadri as he was dri) had said he did not want security personnel at his abrogation of Article 370. and do not want to be In- people,” Sajjad Lone said in jority”. mark on the security cover very vocal against the Hur- to leave his house. I have Allochi Bagh Srinagar and Farooq Abdullah has trav- dian. He even went as far as his recent blog. “Hatred apart, Farooq Abdullah and his of ground workers who are riyat and against lawyers like seen the tweet by him about proceeded towards Khag elled a distance from saying to say that they would rather the problem is that the ruling son know vulnerable to such attacks in Mian Abdul Qayoom who danger to his life. Unfortu- village in Budgam. All the that he will rot all separatists be ruled by the Chinese; he class in Delhi seems to have that only a united platform Kashmir. were close to separatists. The nately, he had not tagged mainstream political parties in jail, to protesting against repeated it and said that seri- a rudimentary understand- by the mainstream leaders Before his killing, Qadri, All Party Hurriyat Confer- the Kashmir police in that have condemned the killings the fake encounter of ously people of Kashmir no ing of Kashmir, the history of will be an answer to the “on- in a tweet three days ago, ence (APHC), in a statement tweet, but Jammu police,” of Babar Qadri and Bhupin- and alleged custodial killing longer believe in the Centre. Kashmir, the secularist per- slaught of BJP in Kashmir”. urged J&K Police to file an on Friday, expressed shock IGP Kashmir said. der Singh. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi india and the world 5 www.sundayguardianlive.com

EXCLUSIVE at un General Assembly PM makes Covid was made in Chinese strong pitch for India’s military laboratory, says inclusion in UNSC

ani doctor who fled China New York/New Delhi

Dr Li-Meng Yan, researcher who worked in the WHO reference laboratory Making a strong pitch for India’s inclusion as a permanent member of United Nations Security Council, Prime Minister in Hong Kong and fled to US, says the virus was developed in a military Narendra Modi on Saturday said “reform in the responses, in the processes, and in the very character of the United Nations is the need of the hour” and wondered as to how long India laboratory and that she was told by her supervisor not to cross the ‘red line’ with its unique contribution to the UN will be “kept out of the decision-making structures” of the world body. when she talked about human-to-human transmission. Addressing the 75th United Nations General Assembly in Hindi through video-conferencing, the Prime Minister said sion and was seeing what was happen- buy any vaccine developed that the international community is faced with a very impor- there was ing in Hong Kong and the way ‘When I was on the in China because the quality tant question about the relevance of United Nations as the nothing to worry, the government was clamp- is suspect. They always prefer “requirements and challenges” of the present as well as the all these have been ing down on the protesters. flight to the US, to spend more money and get future are vastly different from those when the world body was proved false. On 17 It is difficult for me to stay the Hong Kong the imported one. constituted in 1945. “Reform in the responses, in the processes, January, I decided to contact hidden, because I want to Q: You plan to stay in the US and and in the very character of the United Nations is the need of a Chinese blogger based in work. In mid-April, I was told police and Chinese work? the hour. For how long will India be kept out of the decision- the US so that through him, that I was in danger. Also, I A: The US is the only country making structures of the United Nations?,” PM Modi asked. I could share the truth to the realised that things were get- agencies informed which can lead an investiga- “This is a country, which has hundreds of languages, hun- world about coronavirus. I ting worse and the virus was Beijing state security tion to hold the CCP respon- dreds of dialects, many sects, and many ideologies; This is a chose him since I had to reach being allowed to spread, de- sible for this pandemic. US country, which was a leading global economy for centuries and out to someone who will not spite telling people concerned about my departure officials are in contact with also one which has endured hundreds of years of foreign rule. tell this to the CCP and sell how dangerous the virus was, and police officials me and I have already pro- How long would a country have to wait particularly when the me. I spent two days trying but China was still allowing vided evidence to them, we transformational changes happening in that country affect a to make him understand the people to go in and out of descended at my are working together. Eve- large part of the world?” he asked. evidence and convince him. Wuhan. ryone deserves the truth Barring China, all other four permanent members of the Q: Why would China infect its I decided to leave Hong home, started no matter, everyone should UNSC have expressed support for India’s candidature for a own people? Kong and came to the US questioning my spend some time to study permanent seat in the security council. Modi said that every A: We can only assume the on 28 April. Now, I have the these things to understand Indian, while seeing the contribution of India in the United motive; it is the CCP which support of the relevant people parents. Ten and understand that this Nations, aspires for India’s expanded role in the body. He also needs to tell this to the world. of the US government. These (Covid 19) should never referred to India’s contributions to about 50 UN peace mis- For almost a century, the CCP people, after reading my first policemen searched have ever happened. No one sions over the decades. has been ruling the country, report, are convinced that I my 20 sq meter should have got hurt from “India has always given priority to the welfare of the whole now all kinds of movements am telling the truth. this pandemic. This has al- world. India is the country, which sent its brave soldiers to have started in the country. Q: Have you been approached home in Hong ready happened and it will about 50 peacekeeping missions the world over to keep peace. People in China are looking by the Chinese government, for- come out again and again India is that country, which in the course of maintaining peace, for change. I grew up under mally or informally, post your Dr Li-Meng Yan Kong for hours.’ because you cannot trust has lost the maximum number of its brave soldiers Today this government for more revelations? If yes, what have my name to discredit me. The are being restricted. Twitter ports is already published people who did it before and every Indian, while seeing the contribution of India in the than 30 years and I can say they said? cyber military of China is put- is supporting fake accounts on this. have to put this Chinese re- United Nations, aspires for India’s expanded role in the United that this dictatorship govern- A: They have. When I was ting a lot of effort to discredit about me, but restricting the Some of the top and famous gime accountable. Nations,” he said. He called for a “serious introspection of the ment does not care about its on the flight to the US, the me and raise doubts about my one that I am operating. scientists are supporting the Q: You are saying that the peo- work of the United Nations” as there have been several wars, people. For them, human life Hong Kong police and Chi- qualifications. Q: Dr Yan, you are saying that theory of “natural origin” ple who are responsible for this terrorist attacks which shook the world. is not important. nese agencies informed the Q: Twitter recently took down if it is something that was made (of the virus) of the Chinese should be held accountable. Can Meanwhile, PM Modi also said India’s coronavirus vaccine Q: Why did you leave Hong Kong Beijing state security about your account. Have you ap- in the laboratory, I am sure you Communist Party, for dif- you tell me who these people are? production and delivery capacity will help all humanity in in April? Why not before that? my departure and police of- proached Twitter as to why they have some kind of evidence to ferent reasons and trying to A: This was intentionally re- fighting the pandemic. “Even during these very difficult times And why go to the US? The Chi- ficials descended at my home, did this? Have they given any prove this? suppress my theory. They are leased. In the very beginning, of the raging pandemic, the pharmaceutical industry of In- nese government is saying that started questioning my par- reason? A: I have two reports—one is using lies and misinformation it should have never ever dia has sent essential medicines to more than 150 countries,” you are working on the orders of ents. Ten policemen searched A: No reason. I just used my published and one I am work- to cheat people since people happened. So who should be said Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The phase-3 trial of the the US government. my 20 sq meter home in Hong Twitter account to publish ing on which will prove that cannot read scientific reports accountable? It is not an indi- coronavirus vaccine “Covoxin” in India is scheduled to start A: They have charged me of Kong for hours. my report and just after 24 the virus was made in a labo- by themselves. That’s why vidual thing. Any individual in Lucknow and Gorakhpur from October. “As the largest doing far more than what you They have put criminal hours, for no reason, my ac- ratory. You don’t need to trust Twitter banned me as soon cannot do such a big thing in vaccine producing country of the world, I want to give one are saying. Why April? In the cases against me. I left Hong count got suspended. Also, me on this, you can verify by as I released my report. such an organised way. The more assurance to the global community today. India’s vac- beginning, I was not aware Kong on 28 April and that I have another anonymous yourself as I am going to write Q: So, Dr Yan, do you think Chinese Communist Party is cine production and delivery capacity will be used to help that this would turn out to be was my annual leave time Twitter account, which no it in as simple words as pos- that China has already devel- behind it. With this regime, all humanity in fighting this crisis,” he added. Also, Serum this big (the investigation). A and during my annual leave, one knows, but because I use sible for the ordinary reader oped some kind of a vaccine for you can never solve this Institute of India is all set to begin phase three trials of the series of policy changes took they shut down my portal. I the same iPhone to operate to understand. I am going to Covid-19, but is not declaring it? problem. The second thing Covishield Vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford place (in China with regard to cannot access my email, they both the accounts, the anony- quote over 100 reference pa- A: No, please don’t trust the is all the people, no matter University at Sassoon General Hospital in Pune. Covid-19) after the YouTube have deleted my website page mous one too was suspended. pers at the end of my report vaccine China might have from whichever country, PM Modi said in India and in “our neighbourhood, we are broadcast, but still the CCP on Hong Kong University. Many people have com- to tell you who and how this developed. The Chinese gov- who were involved and col- moving ahead with phase 3 clinical trials in India” adding, tried to cover up and col- Professor Malik Peiris had plained to Twitter about this, was done. The virus genome ernment has never developed laborated with this govern- “India will also help all the countries in enhancing their cold laborate with WHO to hide been abruptly retired. All but Twitter, Facebook, Insta- is like a human’s fingerprint any vaccine by themselves. ment to cover up, should be chain and storage capacities for the delivery of the vaccines.” whatever I had said. I realised kinds of cyber attacks are gram have not given any re- and it is clear that two viruses If you check history you can responsible for their mistake Further in the address, PM Modi said despite the ongoing pan- that the CCP government was being staged against me and sponse. Even those who share were “joined” to produce a see that. Chinese people who which has harmed global demic, India is moving towards a “Self Reliant India” adding going to get angry with me. I fake profiles being created in my report, their posts too harmful one. One of my re- have enough money never health. that it would be a “ Force Multiplier for the Global Economy”.

SATELLITE IMAGES GAME CHANGER Pak army burns down forests ‘Doklam jolted China to India’s to contain Baloch fighters new-found capabilities’ “Acres of trees have been Abhinandan Mishra burnt down and since there ‘It was following Doklam that the Chinese realised that New Delhi is a very strict restriction on India’s military posturing was not based on thin air’. Close to .40 square km or 101 carrying a mobile in these acres of forest area in Kech areas, images and videos are kind of infrastructure the control of areas which were the government) are aware Abhinandan Mishra district of Balochistan, that not coming out as they need New Delhi Chinese had built along the traditionally dominated by of what is happening on also encompasses a national to be physically shared from borders and the infrastruc- India, thereby coming near- their side of the border. The park and wildlife sanctuary, one person to the other due Officials who have been ture that we had. The kind er towards our borders while OSINT (Open Source Intel- were allegedly burnt down to the long-standing inter- watching and studying of gap I am referring to is expanding their borders,” an ligence Tools) experts are do- by personnel of the Pakistan A NASA satellite image showing the burned down forest area. net lockdown in entire Balo- the India-China stand-off, well documented and it was official source said. ing their jobs, we are doing Frontier Corp (FC) and the chistan. These farmers, who now in its fifth month, have only the sheer dedication of Responding to a recent re- ours,” the official said. Pakistan army to dissuade of Kech, no assistance was post that houses 40 men and are all Balochis, had started reasons to believe that the our soldiers which stopped port published by a foreign The satellite images used the Baloch freedom fighters provided by the civil admin- multiple checkpoints in the returning to the area after June-August 2017 Doklam the PLA from using that intelligence platform which in the report were provided from taking refuge in these istration to contain the fire on area to eliminate the Baloch three years when they had incident, during which In- gap for its gain. However, by has claimed that China has to the foreign platform by forests. the orders of the FC person- fighters. This recent fire was been forcefully evicted by dia was successfully able 2017, that gap was signifi- more than doubled its air a Twitter user. “Since 2017 Open source Investigation nel and the army. also started after the person- the army. They are all poor to thwart China’s attempt cantly reduced, which the bases, air defence positions, and till now, the PLA has (OSINT) done by The Sunday The Sunday Guardian spoke nel of the army post realised farmers who are barely able to annex Doklam, which Chinese realised when men and heliports near the Line added new infrastructure at Guardian by using the satel- to two individuals, includ- that the Balcoh fighters to earn even Rs 70 from the is claimed by Bhutan, gave and machines were rushed of Actual Control (LAC), the the border, while modifying lite images available with ing one government official, would hide in these forests farm produce. Even their a rude jolt to the Chinese to Doklam, outnumbering official said that such infor- and enhancing the old ones. NASA clearly shows that al- who is based in Kech, who (which is locally known as farms were not spared by strategists and “awakened” the ones that were brought mation was already available We, too, have done the same. most 100 acres of area with confirmed that the fire was Hapsagz Hasadi and Dabebi the army. The villagers had them to the reality that the by the PLA. We believe it with the people in the estab- In the present crisis, it took the coordinates at Lat: 25.859, started by the armed forces. forests),” the government of- approached the Deputy massive gap between India was post Doklam that they lishment who needed it and us not even seven days to de- Lon: 62.668 was on fire on “There used to be a lot of ficial said. Commissioner, seeking gov- and China when it came to realised that India’s military there was nothing alarm- ploy the massive resources 20 September. These coor- movement of the Baloch According to another in- ernment help in containing infrastructure in the border posturing was not based on ing about what the report that are presently looking to- dinates are of Kech. The fire, fighters in these areas and dividual, who spoke to The the fire, but they were told areas, had decreased. thin air. What we are now had stated. “Construction wards China. The talks that which started on the night of after taking part in opera- Sunday Guardian from Kech, by the officer that he cannot “2017 was definitely a game seeing at the Eastern Ladakh of defence and civil infra- are going on (to resolve the 19 September, continued till tions against the Pakistan the fire had also destroyed the interfere,” the individual said. changer when it comes to border is an extension of the structure by a foreign coun- dispute) are happening from 21 September and despite army, they would hide in small farms of the marginal The fire finally burnt out by how we acted at the border hard lessons that they learnt try inside their borders is a a position of strength, some- repeated requests by the lo- these forests which are quite farmers who were seen as itself, but not before destroy- when it involved the Chinese in Doklam. They do not want routine affair and it is hard thing which the PLA too has cal Balcohis to the Deputy dense. One month ago, the FC sympathizers of the Baloch ing precious flora and fauna PLA. Till 2010, there was a to be taken by surprise again to hide such constructions. realised,” a senior Defence Commissioner of Dast tehsil had established one big army fighters by the Pakistan army. of the region. massive gap between the and hence they have taken The people concerned (in ministry official said. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 6 covert new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

PART VI Stones of silence: Ladakh and beyond The September 1842 peace treaty accepted the traditional boundary between Ladakh and Tibet. The village and the area around Minsar near Mansarover Lake that were held by the Rajas of Ladakh since 1583, were retained by the Jammu and Kashmir Maharajas and till 1948 they continued to receive the revenue from Minsar that lies hundreds of miles inside Tibet. help paint the larger picture, or so I hoped! The area of ethnologic Ti- bet was close to 800,000 square miles, with the ma- jority of the Tibetan popu- lation at the time living in the districts between Lhasa and the Chinese border. Not only was the altitude a factor, the harshness of the terrain served to isolate it not just Shiv Kunal Verma Bandrol, Kullu from India to the south, but also China to the east and he Kiang, or the Mongolia to its north. The Tibetan Wild Ass devastating hordes of Mon- T(Equus kiang), whose gols that poured through small herds inhabit the area Central Asia and reduced the around Chushul and the Russians and half of Europe Spangur Gap, shows a lot to vassalage never entered more common sense than Tibet, even though it lay at the Chinese President, Xi their very doorstep. Even Jinping when it comes to when they attacked India, identifying borders. The they chose to swing around ass knows which area is Tibet and entered the sub- controlled by the Indians continent through the easier and it roams freely there, passes of Afghanistan. while keeping well clear of Given the nature of the ter- PLA-held ground. The Chi- rain, the Indo-Tibet bound- nese, their knives honed to ary was always going to be salami slice territory, are a problem. Apart from its Zorawar Singh, Gulab Singh’s general who led a military also known to eat, among vastness—extending from expedition into Zanskar and Ladakh in 1835 and then again in Royal scene inside the Dukhang Karpo (White Temple) at Hunder, Nubra, built by King Tsewang Stanba around the 15th century. other things, the largest of the in the west 1841. (Shiv Kunal Verma/KaleidoIndia) (Shiv Kunal Verma/KaleidoIndia) the wild asses which other- to the area beyond the Lohit wise harms no one, barely River in the east—the actual at that time. The three sons of the Kingdom of Ladakh September the Dogras had from this ill-fated campaign Sinkiang and Tibet. The gesting the demarcation of scrimping out an existence demarcation could never be of the prince each took his even when it was officially set up base at Taklakot near escaped into British Ku- first British attempt in 1847, the frontier between Sinki- on the scarce montane and done. Both the Tibetans and share of fiefs from the unit- annexed by Kashmir in 1846. the Mansarovar Lake, where maon. Cunningham’s Ladakh Bor- ang and Tibet with Ladakh. alpine grasslands of the high the peoples living in various ed Skyid-Ida-Ngeemagon Leaving the Aksai Chin they hastily constructed a Gulab Singh’s prestige der Commission, failed to Once again China refused to Himalayas. kingdoms to the south, rare- dominions, and Meryal at to the north, the boundary small fort. This location was was severely dented by the delineate the eastern border accept the proposal. Subse- The PLA, when it first ly followed geographical fea- that time was a small state.” then drops south from the 15 miles from the borders of demise of Zorawar Singh between Ladakh and Tibet quently, the Chinese would came calling in Tibet and tures, being content to con- The Chinese then conclude: Chang Chenmo valley to Nepal and Kumaon. Both the and his army, and to make and the northern boundar- point to the MacDonald then Eastern Ladakh in fine themselves to the more “Therefore, the question of Spiti, which is today a part king of Nepal and the British matters worse, the Tibetan ies between Kashmir and proposal as proof that none the immediate decade pre- practical method of separat- delimiting the boundary be- of Himachal Pradesh. This governor of the North West Army was now advanc- Xinjiang, which left the of the earlier arguments ceding 1962, showed scant ing territories by need. For tween Ladakh and Tibet as line passes through Pangong Province (later United Prov- ing on Ladakh. A force British no choice but to rely held any water as the pro- disregard for traditionally example, the Tibetans were between two countries does Tso, Chushul and Demchok. inces, then Uttar Pradesh under the command of on the earlier treaty of 1842 posal itself proved that the settled boundaries that had more interested in the high- not arise.” The entire frontage for the and later still, ) Dewan Hari Chand was which the Chinese would boundary had not been de- survived the test of time or er reaches for grazing their The main bone of con- western section is over 1,610 sent their emissaries to meet rushed from Jammu to later contest on the grounds lineated. However, on closer any existing formal treaty for yaks and flocks of upland tention in later years with kilometres and this entire re- with Zorawar Singh. The Chushul where it convinc- that it had more to do with scrutiny, the MacDonald that matter. The then Chi- sheep, while those in the the Chinese is the bound- gion has continuously been British had been viewing the ingly crushed the Tibetans, non-aggression rather proposal was a major de- nese strongman, Chairman relatively lower areas would ary that extends eastwards a part of Ladakh for close Dogra advance with alarm; thereby avenging the de- than the delineation of the viation from the earlier es- Mao, had already pulled off base their claim on the veg- from the Pass to a thousand years. Gulab from their point of view a feat at Toyu. In September boundary. tablished boundary. The the largest land grab in the etation that grew there. This to the Chang Chenmo valley Singh’s mercurial rise under direct link between Lahore 1842, Diwan Hari Chand So what then were the new proposal, in fact, drew post WWII-era by bring- system worked well until that lies to the south. This Maharaja Ranjit Singh had (the Sikhs) and Nepal (the and Wazir Ratnu, on be- old established frontiers? a line from the Karakoram ing both Sinkiang and Tibet the beginning of the 20th was the traditional line that made the 1835 Dogra expe- Gorkhas) was most unde- half of Gulab Singh, signed Much has been written Pass towards the east that into the overall fold of the century, until surveyors and divided the Ladakh region dition under Zorawar Singh sirable, and they had been a peace treaty with Kalon about the survey conducted differed from any Indian PRC, after which he decided cartographers armed with from Sinkiang and Tibet, into the trans-Himalayan putting relentless pressure Surkhan and Depon Pishy, by William Henry Johnson or British map of that time. to cut Nehru down to size in modern mapping gadgets both of which came under region an important event on the Lahore Durbar to who represented the Tibet- in 1865 whose main task Ironically, the MacDon- keeping with the age old Chi- began to delineate frontiers Communist China’s control whose ramifications were press Gulab Singh to recall an government. This treaty was to draw the line from ald line would have placed nese saying that “there can- on geographical lines. after Mao came to power. On felt in the Lahore Durbar. Zorawar Singh and vacate “as recognised by both sides Demchok in the south to more than half of the Aksai not be two tigers on a hill”. The frontiers also re- the other hand, India claims After crossing Umasi-la and the Tibetan territory occu- since olden times,” accepted the 18,000 feet high Kara- Chin in Chinese territory. Having completely misread mained relatively ill-defined the huge expanse of the Ak- getting to Padam, Zorawar pied by him. the traditional boundary koram pass in the north. Unfortunately, post-Inde- Mao’s devious intentions, because governmental con- sai Chin that lies south of the had then moved westwards, However, by then, Zorawar between Ladakh and Tibet. Some claim Johnson’s bor- pendence, India’s getting the Indians then handed trol in Tibet was fairly fluid. Kuen Lun mountain range capturing the Suru River Singh had already shot his The village and area around der took a circuitous route embroiled in an inconclu- unto themselves a military Given the fact that both the as an integral part of its ter- Valley and the small town of bolt. The intense cold and Minsar near Mansarover beyond the Kuen Lun sive shooting match with defeat that then scared the Chinese and the British ritory. The entire zone is a Kargil. In the next four years, lack of supplies had virtually Lake that were held by the Mountains and thus in- Pakistan over Kashmir, fur- nation’s psyche for the next were constantly probing vast high altitude desert with he had the entire region of immobilized his army and to Rajas of Ladakh since 1583, cluded the barren and cold ther complicated matters. five and a half decades, creat- and pushing their frontiers huge salt lakes at heights in Ladakh and Baltistan under make matters worse, the Ti- were, however, retained by Aksai Chin desert into the Pakistani tribal lashkars, ing an unequal relationship, forward, it was perhaps in- the region of 5,000m. Geo- his control. betans, aware of the threat the Jammu and Kashmir political map of Kashmir, apart from making a grab where the Chinese dragon evitable that there would be graphically though part of Once again in 1841, to Lhasa, had put together a Maharajas and till 1948 they but in reality he was only for Srinagar, also made a de- repeatedly tries to bully the serious differences in opin- the Tibetan Plateau and the Zorawar Singh crossed large force to neutralize the continued to receive the rev- following the established termined grab for Ladakh, Indian elephant. ion. In subsequent years, it Chang Tang, the region is al- back into Ladakh. His Dogras. Boldly seeking to enue from Minsar that lies boundaries of Ladakh that the invaders getting to the Travelling through the would be a great irony that most uninhabited and sees 5,000-strong army supple- engage the Tibetans rather hundreds of miles inside Ti- already existed. To compli- outskirts of Leh itself. With Shyok Valley in winter the PRC would on behalf of little precipitation due to the mented by another 2,000 than sit back and wait for bet. This treaty of 1842 set- cate matters, Johnson re- the Pakistan factor also with Dr Sonam Wangchuk Tibet, lay claim to areas that Himalayan and other moun- men from , Lada- them to attack him, the Do- tled the boundary between signed his job and was ap- coming into play, the Sino- in 2011, we would try to the Tibetans themselves had tains to the south soaking kh and Baltistan advanced gras were overcome at Toyu Ladakh and Tibet in un- pointed by the Maharaja of Indian boundary became wrap our heads around conceded as not being a part up the Indian monsoon. eastwards along the Indus on 11/12 December, 1841 at an equivocal terms, leaving no Kashmir as the Governor of even more complicated. the topography of the sur- of political Tibet. Historically, however, the river and brushed aside altitude of over 16,000 feet. cause for any kind of border Ladakh. This move gave his Five years were to pass af- rounding area, which in the The frontier between 38,000 sq km Aksai Chin all Tibetan opposition at Zorawar Singh himself died dispute in this region. Or so critics the ammunition they ter Jammu and Kashmir pre-satellite imagery days Ladakh and Tibet can be was considered to be a part Rudok and Tashigong. By fighting. Very few survivors it was thought! needed to rubbish his map- acceded to India in 1947 be- was a forbidding task. “It traced back to the 10th cen- The Treaty itself was in making abilities on the fore the Chinese moved into is believed that in ancient tury when a Tibetan prince, three separate, but essen- ground that Johnson had the Aksai Chin area, which times, Ladakh might have Skyid-Ida-Ngeemagon, con- tially identical, versions; included the vast territory had been left unguarded. At been under Greater Tibet ferred the Meryal (Ladakh) one each between Tibet and of the Aksai Chin to cosy that time India’s boundar- as part of Zhangzhung and fief to his eldest son. Since Ladakh, another between up to the Maharaja who ies in Eastern Ladakh were Ngar Skorsum, but ruled by then, various kings ruled their principals, the Sikh was obviously pleased as based on Johnson’s map. local chieftains. But since the over Ladakh. In 1681 and Durbar and China. The Per- punch to see the size of his But matters had moved on, 10th century it was always an 1683, the Tibetans, aided sian text in Tibet’s posses- state increase dramatically. for by the time India sent independent kingdom until by Mongols, invaded La- sion reads: “We shall remain Johnson on his part had a patrol into the Western the Dogra invasion took dakh. Subsequently, in 1684 in possession of the limits of been fairly meticulous— Karakorams to show the place in 1835.” Sonam was a peace treaty between the boundaries of Ladakh and besides overseeing trans- flag, the G-219 Highway, the from Khardung village and two sides was concluded that the neighbours subordinate portation and advice on main link to the Karakoram had been handpicked by read: “The boundaries fixed to it, in accordance with the the routes, Johnson himself Highway, had already been the Rimpoche to do a PhD in the beginning, when Skid- old customs, and there shall travelled right up to Shahid- constructed by the Chinese. on Tibetan Buddhism and Ida-Ngeemagon gave a king- be no transgression and no ula. In 1878, when the Chi- And then of course 1962 his knowledge of the area dom to each of his three sons, interference in the country nese once again established happened, and ever since was formidable. We would should still be maintained.” beyond the old-established their control over Sinkiang, hair continues to be split climb into the remotest of After Mao’s intervention, frontiers.” The Tibetan text they created a customs post over differing Chinese claim places looking for royal in- the Chinese started to ques- in Kashmir’s possession north of Shahidula imply- lines! scriptions and paintings that tion the existence of any was of the same tenor. ing that they considered the Shiv Kunal Verma is the au- few knew of. “Inscription such treaty. Peking further After the Amritsar Treaty Kuen Lun as outside their thor of “1962: The War That mentions King Bhagaram claimed that: “Skyid-Ida- formally created the king- jurisdiction. Wasn’t” and “The Long Road to Mir,” he would say, while I Ngeemagon conferred fiefs dom of Jammu and Kash- Almost half a century Siachen: The Question Why”. would dutifully take photo- on each of his three sons only mir, the British abrogated to later, the British Minister to This is the sixth part of a series graphs and file the informa- reflects a change in own- themselves the responsibil- China, Sir Claude MacDon- on Kashmir. The fifth part was tion away. These little bits of ership of manorial estates A royal inscription engraved on stone at Hunder in the Shyok Valley, mentioning King Bhagaram ity for Kashmir’s northern ald, again tried to address published on 20 September information someday would among feudal lords of Tibet Mir. (Shiv Kunal Verma/KaleidoIndia) and eastern borders with the boundary issue, sug- 2020. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi covert 7 www.sundayguardianlive.com

need for caution Communist China’s influence operations: India’s think-tanks, politicians, intellectuals, academia, media are targets Such ‘influence-operations’ include fully-funded media conferences, academic conferences, paid trips of intellectuals and civil society members to China, and scholarships to students.

fresh round of funding from is likely to use such think- all practical purposes, are cast aspersions on the cred- Abhinav Pandya new delhi China’s Bytedance. Such tanks to find out the views hand-in-glove against India, ibility of the think-tanks massive funding in the app, of India’s next generation of be it deployment, intelligence and the academic institu- ndia’s which claims to have over 28 strategic experts on China, operations, cross border ter- tions mentioned above as strategic million monthly active users which will furnish critical rorism, or global influence examples. Instead, the au- Iexperts, surfing the app for regional data on whom to cultivate operations and information thor has the utmost respect intelligence language content in videos, and target. Given that Nepali warfare. Hence, even while for the claims of independent apparatus, audios, news and ebooks, NGOs (China Study Center) investigating lobbying by research and non-partisan political speaks volumes of the abil- have been tasked earlier to Pakistan’s proxy Islamist approach made by the institu- leadership, ity and power which Byte- investigate Gurkhas joining groups in the west on the tions mentioned above. How- and the majority of the aca- dance will hold to influence the Indian Army, such new Kashmir and Khalistan is- ever, as discussed above, such demic community failed and the opinions and thoughts of entities operating from Ne- sue, the China factor needs linkages and events, on the did so rather abysmally in un- such a huge consumer base of pal and engaging a range of to be kept in mind. part of the Indian entities, in- derstanding and preventing 28 million people. strategic experts and other tentionally or unintentionally, China’s penetration in India’s stakeholders must be moni- MEDIA end up promoting China’s innards, i.e., our social, politi- CHINA’S INFLUENCE tored carefully. Closer analysis of the writ- goodwill and strategic inter- cal, educational, and a pleth- OPERATIONS A Delhi-based think tank ings of those in the media ests, precisely the objectives ora of other institutions. The China’s United Front Works recommends Indian students who intentionally or unin- pursued by Chinese influence consequent internal sabotage Department (UFWD) is an for post-doctoral studies in tentionally become a part operations. The intelligence was evident in full steam dur- entity responsible for run- China through a tie-up with of the dragnet of Chinese apparatus of China controls ing the ongoing India-China ning psychological and Harvard-Yenching Institute. influence operations can such influence operations. standoff. When China with information operations in India’s MHRD and the Chi- amaze any profound and Notably, Chinese influence Representative photo: Indian nationals, mostly students from all over China left for home on its deceit and treachery in full China and foreign countries. the Guangzhou-Delhi Vande Bharat Mission special flight, in Guangzhou, China on 6 August. ANI nese government offer schol- perceptive analyst with their operations are not unique to bloom, was intruding into It aims to expand Chinese in- arships for higher studies in refinement, subtlety, and India. In the US, elitist educa- Indian territory, one could fluence through soft power. (check images 1 and 2). Even a gues that public alienation players like Netflix. China. In ordinary parlance, complexity. Those who are tional institutions, including witness an entire brigade UFWD has immense power cursory glance at the tweets of Kashmir is at its peak due The ORF is known for its such initiatives are part of not trained in such matters Ivy League universities, have of security analysts, think in the foreign policy set-up from the account mentioned to the abrogation of Article clout and might at South routine educational exchange will find it extremely difficult received substantial Chinese tank community, academi- of China. Deeply connected above makes it amply clear 370. It can be a significant Block. Every year it holds initiatives between countries. to see through the covert and funding. “End of Harvard cians, politicians and media with intelligence, it runs in- that the tweets have a clearly disruption to India’s neme- “Raisina Dialogue,” India’s However, in China’s case, malicious agenda behind it. Century,” an article published organisations promoting and fluence operations in target defined objective of promot- sis during a war with China. premier security dialogue thought must be given to For example, an article pub- by Harvard Crimson, reveals protecting Chinese strategic countries to influence their ing enemy interests. Also, the piece blames India sponsored by the Ministry. the possibility of extraneous lished by a well known online alarming degrees of Chinese interests with passionate zeal politicians, intellectuals, The upshot of this account’s for the standoff by project- In the same league falls Rajiv considerations and the ul- news portal, argued that most penetration in the Harvard and fervour, which could media and socio-economic tweets is that PLA is far su- ing the abrogation of Article Gandhi Foundation (RGF), an terior motives behind such companies are not delinking University, the ivory tower of only come if there is an un- institutions. Such “influence- perior in capabilities as it has 370 as the leading cause of NGO led by Sonia and Rahul programs. Reportedly, the business from China because knowledge, liberal traditions, interrupted flow of dollars operations” include fully- excelled in algorithm war- the India-China standoff. Gandhi. According to a Times students are indoctrinated in China is a paramount player and freedom of thought. Teng from invisible foreign hands. funded media conferences, fare. In contrast, the Indian However, the facts suggest of India report, RGF received the Chinese world view, and in the global supply chain, Biao, a Chinese dissident and Clive Hamilton and Ma- academic conferences, paid Army is continuing with otherwise. In Kashmir, the Rs 90 lakh in donations from when they come back, care and there is no escaping it. a scholar at Harvard Law reike Ohlberg have exposed trips of intellectuals and civil Second World War tactics. infrastructure of terrorism is the Chinese Embassy in should be taken to see that Superficially, it appears like School, was stopped by a how the Chinese Communist society members to China, Further, provoking the Army in acute crises, and the people 2006-07. Reportedly, RGF they are not China’s secret an opinion piece based on “powerful person” at Harvard Party is shaping the global and scholarships to students. veterans, the said Twitter are increasingly accepting the produced many research envoys and spies. economic and political analy- from organizing an event at order in their classic work, Lately, several Chinese dip- account has, on many occa- new narrative of development papers convincing the then sis; however, the analysis, in Harvard where they would “Hidden Hand: Exposing How lomats, including most of sions, posted that the Indian and good governance. Most Congress government to pur- ACADEMIA all likelihood, is misleading be sharing their experiences the Chinese Communist Party the ambassadors in entire Army’s leadership is incom- interestingly, local Muslims sue a Free Trade Agreement In academia, a Delhi-based because it presents a one- as dissidents. A few days is Reshaping the World.” They South Asia, have come from petent and has no knowledge are joining BJP, the so-called with China. The studies com- prestigious private university sided view. That said, one before the event, Harvard write, “The Party’s program UFWD, which clearly shows of the current innovations in Hindu Nationalist Party. The missioned by RGF argued offers China-India visiting cannot rule out the possibil- president had met Xi Jinping; of influence and interference China’s focus and massive ef- the art of warfare. The said post 370 narratives of integra- that India needed the FTA Scholars Fellowship. As the ity of the said article shaping hence the “powerful person” is well planned and bold, and forts in expanding influence. account also re-tweeted and tion and development have more than China, and hence, website reads, the fellowship opinions and global narra- told Teng that “after the his- backed by enormous econom- In particular, it has targeted commended the article of a disturbed Pakistan so much the government should brook aims to “give Indian schol- tives in China’s favour. toric meeting between Xi and ic resources and technologi- India’s civilisational influence Russian columnist, Andrew that the terrorist groups are no delay in pursuing the mat- ars an opportunity to study the Harvard President,” their cal power. The wide-ranging in South Asia. Korybko, who alleged India brutally murdering local ter. Citing deficit figures as China and create new knowl- NO FREEDOM IN CHINA event against China would campaign of subverting insti- Recently, this author came of illegal incursions into Chi- Muslims joining BJP. evidence that between 2003- edge about China in India”. On the other hand, in China, embarrass Harvard. tutions in Western countries across a well-known NGO nese territory in the recent Very soon, Pakistan and 04 and 2013-14, India’s trade Though the fellowship does as told by Indian students and winning over their elites from Udaipur, whose higher stand-off. On closer investi- its proxy jihadists will be deficit with China jumped not have Chinese funding, the pursuing higher studies EASY TO LURE INDIA’S has advanced much further officials visited China. The gation, this author found that the most reviled community by 33 times, Amit Malviya, doubts arise from the nature there, to this author on the HEAVYWEIGHTS than Party leaders might have NGO and its leadership are the owner of the said account in Kashmir. Further, contrary BJP’s IT-cell head, raised an of the research topics being condition of anonymity, the India has a rich history of hoped.” Such influence op- renowned for their faith in visited China for various con- to the said article’s claims, the alarming question: Is there studied under the program. students on the campuses its bureaucrats, politicians, erations aimed to restructure Gandhian values, human ferences in the past. Chinese aggression presaged any connection between the A cursory glance at the pro- have no freedom to indulge academicians, intellectuals, thoughts are the bedrock of rights, secularism, and their Besides, there were many Article 370, and we all saw donations made to RGF for gram shows that the research in any debate on any po- and civil rights activists, be- China’s Comprehensive Na- disdain for Hindu national- dubious reports, commen- it in Doklam, Depsang, and lobbying with the govern- areas include urbanization, litical issue. The professors ing manipulated by myriad tional Power outlined by Cleo ism. However, despite such taries, and analytical pieces other standoffs. Further- ment for an FTA and the public health, economics, openly use racist and bi- foreign powers, severely Paskal in her recent Sunday robust faith in lofty Gandhian based on the amateurish more, the Indian Army has meteoric rise in India’s trade financial industrialization, ased language in the classes harming India’s national Guardian article. The demo- ideals, when they came back, reading of the satellite im- captured many strategic deficits with China? law and governance, environ- against India and the West, security. As told by a former cratic governing systems and they were extraordinarily im- ages and maps of the ground heights in Ladakh. As per In the middle of the Gal- ment, and migration. and the students are not US intelligence official to this the concomitant freedoms pressed with China and its situation on LAC, written by Harvard Kennedy’s Belfour wan crisis (May-June 2020), The author did not come allowed to ask questions author, Delhi was always a are the perfect enablers for progress. They maintained some pseudo-security ex- center, the Indian Army is a prominent Mumbai-based across any research interests against those references. A den of spies. It has always China’s booming and devious the most mysterious silence perts without even the most likely to inflict severe damage prestigious think-tank fo- on the condition of Uyghurs senior professor from Jindal been a cakewalk to lure In- influence operations. on so-called “aberrations” basic credentials, and carried to PLA in the Ladakh region. cusing on economic affairs, in East Turkestan, treatment Global University, who went dia’s heavyweights “with a China, a totalitarian party- like the massacre of Tibetans, by India’s prestigious media Instead, China appears to be organized an online sympo- of Tibetans, and the state of on an educational program bottle of good champagne, state, has a clear vision and pro-democracy students of houses. Such writings with making desperate attempts to sium on “Post-COVID 19 City human rights and freedom of to China, told this author a paid foreign trip, a lucra- a well-planned road map for Tiananmen Square, and Uy- a hidden agenda were only avoid war by diplomacy and Governance China-India”, in expression in China. that surveillance cameras tive fellowship at a western dominating the world order. ghur concentration camps of a step short of declaring psy-ops, fearing a colossal partnership with the Chinese Likewise, as per this au- are on the campuses every research think-tank or berth Such ambitions are manifest East Turkestan. Interestingly, China’s decisive victory and loss of its prestige and man- consulate in Mumbai and thor’s research, attempts 50 metres. Those students in elite western campuses for not only in military expan- some of the passionate ones the conquest of Ladakh. Such power in a war. Shanghai Institute of Inter- were underway to establish who interacted with this their children.” sionism but also through even accused India’s “Hindu reports at best added to the national Studies. At a time Confucius Institutes, noto- author requested anonym- It is high time as a society; devious ways to control the nationalist” government of confusion, created a sense of THINK TANKS when the entire world was rious for their alleged links ity because they feared that we woke up to the threat global supply chains, sabo- abandoning Gandhian values panic, fear, and distrust in the Coming to the world of think demanding an investigation with Chinese intelligence, in if they come out in the open, posed by China’s hidden of- tage, and subvert democratic of non-violence and making current political leadership. tanks, by funding confer- into China’s role in the spread some of India’s most presti- the Chinese universities will fensive. The national security countries’ institutions. It is aggression into the “Chinese” At worst, these sabotaged ences and large donations, of coronavirus pandemic, this gious academic institutions. fail them in the exams. These apparatus has to come out of the party-state’s fundamen- territory, after “murdering India’s vital national securi- China intends to whitewash influential Indian think-tank Several eminent professors, days many of them are in In- its outmoded frameworks tal ideology, which poses the democracy in Kashmir by ty interests by tarnishing the its crimes against humanity, organized a webinar on city- media personalities, and pub- dia attending online classes of strategic thought and biggest threat to the stabil- abrogating Article 370”. image of India’s armed forces. project its clean image and in- governance that showcased lic intellectuals availed paid run by Chinese universities. perceive these new threats. ity of the rules-based world Wonders never cease. doctrinate the future thought China’s urban governance trips to China for conferences They describe those classes as Though a separate detailed order. The article seven of BIASED ANALYSIS leaders with Chinese world- practices. Will others on Ti- and lectures. Interestingly, Chinese concentration camps discussion on countermea- China’s national intelligence O N SOCIAL MEDIA “Can India Transcend Its view i.e., Sinicize the thought bet, organ harvesting from most ardent critics of Hindu solely dedicated to indoctri- sures is needed, a beginning law (2017) stipulates that “any Chinese influence operations Two-Front Challenge?” a process of emerging global prisoners and Uygur repres- nationalism, beef-lynching nating young minds. There is can be made by scrutinising organization or citizen shall sup- on social media have acquired commentary, recently pub- opinion-makers. A presti- sion follow glowing accounts incidents, random incidents no discussion of China’s role and monitoring the activities, port, assist, and cooperate with a high level of sophistication lished by the US’ prestigious gious and influential think of the PRC? of custodial killing, and pellet in the spread of coronavirus. tie-ups, and funding channels state intelligence work according and finesse. Though the sub- War on the Rocks and writ- tank received three grants A Nepal-based think-tank gun firing in Kashmir prefer In contrast, specialised of think-tanks, media houses, to law.” Given that, amid se- ject needs systematic investi- ten by an Indian journalist worth nearly Rs 1.26 crore focusing on China and India to maintain complete silence modules on China’s effective and public policy institutions rious concerns of the CCP’s gation, the author would like is another example of biased from the Chinese consulate has come up in a major way over massacres and concen- measures containing Covid from the viewpoint of the on- deep penetration in Chinese to substantiate by drawing at- analysis. Reading this piece in in 2016 in three in the last few months. It has tration camps of East Turkes- and aid-programs to foreign going covert and overt war of tech companies and Chinese- tention to a particular Twitter makes it unmistakably clear tranches—Rs 7.7 lakh on 29 already become immensely tan. Most often, this happens countries are being force-fed the PRC and its allies against owned and operated ones, account. A closer analysis of that either the author has in- April 2016; Rs 11.55 lakh on popular among the new gen- after their China visits. Their to reluctant minds. Not even a India China’s soft power tools and the tweets posted from this sufficient knowledge of the 4 November 2016; and Rs eration of IR scholars of In- opinion of China undergoes single mention of Uyghurs is Abhinav Pandya is the author entities also raise many sus- account by trained strategic security affairs or presented 10,683,761 on 31 December dia, many of whom presented a sea change, and they seem allowed, but endless lectures of “Radicalization in India: An picions about their intent and analysts will suggest that the distorted research to project 2016. The ORF received papers in its recent virtual to forget everything about the are being held on “Black Lives Exploration” (Pentagon Press, the modus-operandi. Hence tweets are a part of a consis- narratives at crossroads with a grant of Rs 50 lakh on 1 conference. Interestingly, its past of the CCP. Matter”. Professors teach 2019). He did his BA from St. any individual and organiza- tent, systematic, layered, and India’s strategic interests. The December 2017. It needs to senior leadership serves as It does not end here. Here, it conspiracy theories forecast- Stephen’s College, Delhi and post tion with ties to China mer- a complex psychological op- underlying message is that be mentioned that the list a visiting faculty in Chinese merits mentioning that post ing the decline of the US on graduation in Public Affairs from its careful investigation and eration to elicit information India is not prepared for a of donors includes various universities. Given the dete- 370 abrogation, Pakistan account of acute racism and Cornell University, US. He has scrutiny before any engage- about India’s defence secrets decisive war with China; other entities like the Brit- riorating state of Indo-Nepal launched a vigorous infor- violation of human rights in more than seven years of expe- ment. from Army veterans by pro- hence India should explore ish High Commission, EU, relations, such organizations mation war against India. the United States! rience in public policy, counter- India’s local language con- voking them and establishing diplomatic efforts and find Ministry of Foreign Affairs, need to be monitored. Like Notably, as per the informed terrorism, electoral politics and tent, a news aggregating a fear of PLA’s capabilities in peace on reasonable terms. Denmark, the consulate of Ja- any standard intelligence interlocutors of this author, CHINESE OBJECTIVE the development sector in India app, got Rs 168 crore in a India’s strategic community Further, the piece also ar- pan, UNDP, and a few private practice, Chinese intelligence China, and Pakistan, for The author does not intend to and the US. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 8 covert new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

EAT HEALTHY ANALYSTS BULLISH Mahindra EPC Should India adopt NOVA Irrigation stock classification of food? may see 20% price This is an opportunity to halt the exponential rise in consumption of unhealthy diets and to upside in 9 months mitigate the escalation of obesity and associated non-communicable diseases.

of IMS foods as compared Arun Gupta & H.P.S. Sachdev processing, and that led to ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD into diversified and delicious New Delhi development of the “NOVA” dishes and meals; 3) con- to 560,000 tons in China, taking stock food classification, which Packaged powdered baby Sweet or savoury packaged sume Group 3 foods (such which has a weak law. did not depend on food nu- milk and cereal snacks as bread and cheese) as part We do believe that all types trient contents. Instant soups and noodles Ice-creams of dishes and meals based on of foods should be avail- rajiv kapoor NOVA classification pro- Group 1 foods; and 4) Avoid able as some people find it Yoghurt with added artificial poses four food groups: 1) Packaged breads sweeteners Group 4 foods, which are convenient and cheaper to Unprocessed/minimally ultra-processed. Once this eat these packaged UPFs. processed foods; 2) pro- Carbonated drinks Chocolates is adopted and confirmed to However, the intense mar- he answer to the cessed culinary ingredi- Packaged fruit juices Biscuits and cakes be useful, we would not need keting, which pushes people Mahindra EPC is a Mahindra question on whether ents; 3) processed foods; any other terminologies. to unnecessarily consume group company, popularly Health or energy drinks Protein bars Tor not India should and 4) ultra-processed Some common examples the harmful foods, can cer- known as EPC Irrigation Lim- adopt NOVA classification foods (UPFs). It is based on Increased consumption of UPF is del- of ultra-processed foods tainly be minimized, if not ited and a pioneer of micro- for foods is obviously yes. the extent and purpose of eterious to health. Estimates indicate are packaged powdered completely eliminated. The irrigation in the country. But why? food processing, instead of that 10% increase in the consumption of baby milk, cereal, instant Government of India should Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd Well, you might have the nutrient content. The UPFs enhances the risk of obesity, diabe- soups, noodles, packaged consider instituting relevant had acquired a majority stake tes, cardiovascular diseases and certain heard several terminolo- classification is a valuable types of cancer by approximately 10%. breads, carbonated drinks, regulatory measures after a in Mahindra EPC Irrigation gies about food, which are new addition to guide our packaged fruit juices, health thorough evidence-based re- Limited through a preferen- related to your health. “Fast dietary recommendations. or energy drinks, sweet or view and transparent advice tial issuance of equity shares food”, “junk food”, “street UPFs are being manufac- savoury packaged snacks, from experts and partners and through this transaction, food”, “high sugar/salt” tured through processing Government of India, by enacting Food ice-creams, yoghurt with without conflict of interest. it enabled Mahindra and or “high fat” are some that of food elements, which added artificial sweeteners, With the health of millions Mahindra to enter the micro-irrigation sector. Started with have been popularly used occasionally results in ad- Safety and Standards Act (2006), made chocolates, biscuits, cakes, at stake, this matter cannot initial French Technology support, Mahindra EPC has devel- in the past few years and dition of harmful additives. an attempt to control the marketing protein bars, and others. be on the backburner any oped the capability to design and develop various irrigation are overtaking our food However, the overarching They have typically five or longer. products of international standards, satisfying every need of culture. The Food Safety concern is their ability to of unhealthy foods by prohibiting even more ingredients and Finally, we make an urgent Indian farmers. Mahindra EPC provides complete solution and Standards Authority cause enhanced palatabil- this helps in easy identifica- appeal to the Parliamentary for agriculture with a focus on micro-irrigation, pumps and of India (FSSAI), mandated ity induced overconsump- “misleading advertisements”. tion. Committee on Health and inter-related requirements of fertigation and agronomic to ensure your food safety, tion of unhealthy nutrients, The Food and Agricultural all policymakers to con- support. Mahindra EPC has also launched a first-of-its-kind in 2018 proposed a draft resulting in obesity and Organisation (FAO) recog- sider the following steps. one stop shop for agro products and solutions in Buldhana regulation on labelling and related cardiometabolic nises the health risks due One, adopting NOVA clas- district of Maharashtra, wherein farmers can find all agri- display of unhealthy foods disease risk. This classifi- to increased consumption sification and two, make cultural input products and services under one roof. As the based on the traffic light cation thus represents an tion of UPFs is currently WHAT ARE THE of UPFs and concludes that use of this for framing and population of the world is growing and there is an urgency system. This has, as yet, important development in low as compared to the BENEFITS OF NOVA policies should contribute to enforcing relevant regula- to grow more food, our farms are reaching their maximum not seen the light of the day, food science. The food in- United States or UK, but we CLASSIFICATION? actions that fully take into tory framework for food yield point through traditional farming methods. Also for in- possibly due to the delicate dustry did realise that their are making a case to halt its Adopting NOVA classi- account the nature, extent and business operators. Of creased population, more water will be required for farming balancing of “concerns sales could be impacted if exponential rise—the op- fication could be helpful and purpose of food process- course, the third vital com- to grow more crops. As water availability is limited, we have and pressures” from the people avoid high sugar or portunity to act is now by in many ways to control ing. Recently, the UN Special ponent is to educate people to derive methods to optimise its use and at the same time, food industry. Therefore, high salt foods. They began learning from the experi- consumption of unhealthy Rapporteur on the right on suitable dietary practices provide more yield to feed the increased population. Drip we propose an alternative reformulation of foods by ence of such nations. foods. This classification to the highest attainable and harms of consumption irrigation maximises water use efficiency and also its pro- approach to Indian policy- reducing little sugar and Scientific evidence ac- helps in quickly identifying standard of physical and of UPFs. Let us not lose this ductivity. Other benefits of crop irrigation are better quality makers—that of adopting fats and claimed the foods cumulated during the past if a particular food is harm- mental health has also rec- opportunity to act in time— of crop produce, economised cost of production, soil health the NOVA Classification of to be healthier. However, decade unequivocally con- ful, less harmful or safe. It ommended adopting an inte- this is eminently doable as improvement and total food security. The micro irrigation foods. if ultra-processing is the firms that increased con- can spur periodic monitor- gral approach to reduce the demonstrated by Brazil and system market is one of the fastest growing segments of the fundamental issue leading sumption of UPF is delete- ing of food consumption pat- consumption of unhealthy a few other countries. agricultural industry and this growth is complemented by WHAT IS NOVA to biological perturbations, rious to health. Estimates terns and justify marketing food products through the Dr Arun Gupta is a pediatri- the government’s encouragement for adoption of micro ir- CLASSIFICATION? then a UPF will remain indicate that 10% increase controls of the more harm- use of a broader set of laws cian and convener of the Nu- rigation system for various crops. Government programmes Brazilian scientists found UPF. in the consumption of UPFs ful foods. NOVA can prove and regulations. Several sci- trition Advocacy in Public like Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana launched in that the consumption of Government of India, by enhances the risk of obesity, valuable for educating peo- entists in India and globally, Interest (NAPi), a national 2015 with an outlay of Rs 50,000 crore are also a step in the processed foods made peo- enacting Food Safety and diabetes, cardiovascular ple with simple guidance to who believe that our food think tank on nutrition issues. right direction. The major objective of PMKSY is to achieve ple eat more, and led to in- Standards Act (2006), diseases and certain types identify and consume less of system requires a transfor- Prof H.P.S. Sachdev is Se- convergence of investments in irrigation at the field level, creased obesity and type-2 made an attempt to control of cancer by approximately unhealthy foods or eliminate mational shift also support nior Consultant in Pediatrics expand cultivable land under assured irrigation, improve diabetes. This was happen- the marketing of unhealthy 10%. In children, obesity them from their dietary pref- these proposals. Regulat- and Epidemiology, and also a on farm water use efficiency to reduce wastage of water, ing in spite of the fact that foods by prohibiting “mis- and asthma are higher in erences. It has four central ing marketing of UPFs is member of NAPi with special enhance the adoption of precision irrigation and other water people were buying less leading advertisements”. those consuming UPFs. recommendations: 1) base one important approach to interest in maternal and child saving technologies (more crop per drop). Analysts are quite sugar and oil; but the con- However, this has made These effects are probably your diet on a diversity of achieve this objective. In this nutrition in LMICs. He is also bullish on the farm sector and irrigation stocks in particular. sumption of highly processed little impact as we continue a consequence of altera- Group 1 foods, which are context, an earlier success the Chair or Member of FSSAI Mahindra EPC Irrigation stock has been hovering around or ultra-processed, ready to to bear the brunt of aggres- tion of satiety controls and real unprocessed or mini- is worth replicating, when Expert Committee and Panels. the Rs 150 levels for some time and can be accumulated by eat, sugary and packaged sive marketing of unhealthy metabolic pathways, high mally processed; 2) use small India enacted a law in 1992 However, these views are in his portfolio investors for a 20% price upside in the next nine food products had gone up. food products leading to glycemic load, deleterious amounts of Group 2 ingredi- and 2003 to prohibit pro- personal capacity and should months’ time frame. They began to look at the their overconsumption. nutrient profile and harm- ents (salt, oil, vinegar, sugar) motion of baby foods, India not be construed as views or Rajiv Kapoor is a share broker, certified mutual fund expert and extent and purpose of food India’s per capita consump- ful additives. to transform Group 1 foods now sells about 27,000 tons endorsement of FSSAI. MDRT insurance agent.

NO HOLDS BARRED In rubbishing the Delhi riots charge sheet, secularists play investigator, prosecutor and judge The manner in which the liberals have rushed to pan the charge sheet, without sparing thought for the conspiracy hatched by the ring leaders of the anti-CAA protests, betrays their inherent inability to see things in perspective. CAA protests, betrays their professional leftist-liberals. in Jaffrabad. Why? We all sustained all through. A dus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, with their radio silence eral crowd is it robotically VIRENDRA KAPOOR inherent inability to see Yet, the failure to be even- know the reason why, don’t myth was created about the etc., who still remain there. when Kashmiri pundits are picks on an aberrant act by New Delhi things in perspective. It is handed, to not see things we? long suppressed and long- In the name of high-fluting mercilessly kept out of their a nameless Hindu in some The po- this ingrained habit of the always from the prism of This is not all. Video imag- suffering Muslim women concerns for Constitutional homes from where they remote part of the country lice charge viscerally anti- Right crowd anti-RSS, anti-BJP, has di- es—not trashed as contrived overnight possessed of a values, they closed their were driven at the point of and rushes to condemn sheet in which has rendered it vir- rectly and indirectly given even by the liberal-secular- new and fully “woke” con- eyes to the lived reality of the jihadi sword decades ago the ruling regime for turn- the case of tually irrelevant in shaping succour to the most vicious ist crowd—of an AAP mu- sciousness and emerging on the suffering minorities or when Hindus are killed ing India into lynchistan. the Delhi the popular narrative. It criminal elements who con- nicipal councillor amassing the street to defend secular- in Pakistan, Afghanistan, daily by the jihadis. Like how it latched on to riots ear- is particularly regrettable trol the collective Muslim in bulk well in advance of ism and the Indian Consti- , etc. Given that As for the riots, while all the Kapil Mishra-Anurag lier in the year has drawn when one realises that some psyche. the D-Day the full arsenal tution. The fact that aside the alleged totems of secu- the tell-tale evidence which Thakur misspeak ahead of the ire of the leftist-liberal of the liberal commentators Let us stay on the Delhi ri- of riots on the roof of his il- from a handful of activists, larism had resorted to rank speaks of a pre-planned the Assembly poll. Stray crowd. This is not surpris- are exceedingly decent men ots for a moment. In all the legally built four-storey most of whom regularly sat communalism to divide the conspiracy to create the ri- acts of egregious behaviour ing. In particular, their an- who have nothing but the commentary on the Delhi house were widely available on dharna were paid and sub-continent in 1947, try- ots and indulge in violence by members of the majority ger is directed against the good of society at heart. Police charge sheet in the on social media. The lethal provided food, water and ing to protect the victims of is ignored completely by the community must be mag- alleged bid to malign civil Apparently, even other- riots case one has failed to tools of violence could not other refreshments is lost on the perfidious Partition was liberal-left crowd, they harp nified a million-fold, while society members who had wise, good men find it hard find an oblique mention have been amassed over- the defenders of the repub- a laudable act and was cer- incessantly on the ill-chosen organised crime mafias and mentored some of the key to break free from the long- of the well-planned con- night by Tahir Hussain and lican values. It was a well- tainly pro-humanity. words of a Kapil Mishra or riots and never-ending ji- figures in the anti-CAA pro- standing collective mould, spiracy to create violence his accomplices. Nor could oiled operation master- When the framers of the an Anurag Thakur. “Desh had against the state must tests and, later, organised which postulates that a dai- to embarrass the country anyone with an open mind minded by jihadi elements Constitution made a ques- key gaddaro ko, goli maro saley be shoved under the carpet the riots to coincide with ly condemnation of the RSS- when the US President was have ignored the use of il- with masjids, mullahs and tionable distinction between ko” was indeed an attempt in the name of secularism- Donald Trump’s visit. Of BJP alone can earn them here on a two-day visit in legal firearms brandished banned Islamic outfits sus- Hindus and Muslims to be- to polarise the Delhi voters liberalism. For, otherwise, course, they are horrified respect of their peers. To be late February. Even the pur- on camera by some of the taining it organisationally stow on the latter the special on the eve of the local As- the liberal-leftist intellectu- that the police has treated a fellow traveller, one is re- blind could have seen how anti-CAA rioters. The pro- and materially. privilege to be governed by sembly poll, but it was more als fear being defrocked by the provocative role of the quired to adhere to the fun- overnight the anti-CAA vocative harangues of Umar Contrary to the false pro- their own personal laws in than an orator on the stump the high priests of secular- pro-CAA elements with kid damentals which prescribe protesters opened another Khalid and others of his ilk paganda, the anti-CAA ele- marriage, divorce and in- haranguing his audience ism. Therefore, we are not gloves. a robotic finger-pointing at front at Jaffrabad, declaring too were widely available ments revealed their nar- heritance, etc., to say this against the corrupt politi- surprised that even before Yet, the manner in which the ruling regime. Magnify- their intent to block a busy for anyone to fathom the ac- row-mindedness and lack of was the first time religion as cians—jala do, phoonk do, aag a moment’s judicial scru- the liberals have rushed to ing the aberrant act of some thoroughfare. All along tual mindset at work behind generosity of spirit towards a marker of state policy was laga do aisey samaj ko jis mein tiny, the professional liberal- pan the charge sheet, with- nameless individuals in they had occupied Shaheen the protests. the persecuted minorities introduced and was, there- chor or loottarey panpatey ho leftist phalanx has rushed out sparing a moment’s some remote corner of the Bagh and Jamia Millia quar- Indeed, if they wanted in the Islamic nations in our fore, repugnant to their sec- (burn down the world in to rubbish the charge sheet thought for the well laid- country and then foist the ters, but without offering to see with eyes open they neighbourhood which have ular conscience was nothing which thugs and thieves of as a tissue of lies. Their one- out conspiracy hatched by blame on the ruling regime any cogent reason they de- could also have seen how failed to protect the life and but sheer hypocrisy. This public purse prosper). sidedness evokes pity rather the ring leaders of the anti- is the stock-in-trade of the cided to block the busy road the anti-CAA protests were limb of the handful of Hin- hypocrisy being of a piece The problem with the lib- than anger. V09v

Commentthe sunday guardian | 27 september&– 03 octoberanalysis 2020 | new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com opinion “I think we ought always to entertain our opinions with some measure of doubt. I shouldn’t wish of the people dogmatically to believe any philosophy, not even mine.” week Bertrand Russell

editorial PICK OF NO GAGGING THE WEEK Pandemic caused ‘MAGA’ US President Donald by restraints Trump speaks during on speech a campaign rally In countries where differences of opinion are seldom aired at Cecil Airport in in public, and where any marked divergence of views Jacksonville, Florida, between a discussant and those in authority often meet US, on Thursday. with penalties, the apparent cacophony of competing and confrontational voices in a democracy gets taken as REUTERS/Tom Brenner a symptom of weakness. In fact, such an apparent chaos is a sign of strength, just as the open expression of ideas and perspectives within a family is a sign of the health of relationships. The greater the trust, the more the willing- ness to listen to and where found necessary accept the other person’s point of view. In a country where it is a risk to personal liberty to challenge the opinions of those in charge, what happens is similar to the situation that took place in Hubei when the novel coronavirus first made its appearance. If China had been a democracy, the doctors who raised the issue of the new disease would have had little trouble disseminating that information on social and conventional media. In China, the doctors and virologists who understood the toxicity of Covid-19 and the risk that it was causing to public health were silenced. Unaware that they were spreading the disease across the world, civil aviation authorities in China permitted aircraft to land and take off from Wuhan months after it was unsafe to do so. The few social media posts of whistleblowers were erased and the experts responsible punished. The most courageous died as a consequence of a disease that he had warned about months before the authorities took it seriously. Of ELECTION IN U.S. course, freedom of speech sometimes leads to problems. In the case of the novel coronavirus, several institutes gave exaggerated estimates of the lives that would succumb to the disease. As a consequence, panic set in and lockdowns became the norm. In India, the world’s biggest lockdown was imposed for months, because Prime Minister Naren- dra Modi’s government was particular that as many lives Biden’s lack of boldness should be saved as it was possible to do so. The immense respect and credibility of Modi made more than a billion citizens obey the lockdown at severe cost to their economic fortunes. By spreading the virus across the world long after such movement was unsafe, the PRC has harmed itself, in that the market for products has shrunk drastically as emboldens Trump a consequence of the collapse of economies. At the same time, across the world, public opinion has turned against Biden seems to lack the intensity of Trump, and is giving an appearance China and its authoritarian system. If Donald Trump wins a second term in the White House it will be because he is of being micro-managed by smug and know-it-all staffers. seen as more combative towards China than Joe Biden. If the New York Times, the Guardian or the Washington Post “impossible to lose” against and is giving an appearance ship. Neither Joe Biden nor Voters in the US are look- were to be believed, India was a haven of free speech until a candidate as riddled with of being micro-managed by Kamala Harris has reacted ing for the candidate who can Narendra Modi became Prime Minister on 26 May 2014. contradictions as Donald J. smug and know-it-all staff- to an initiative designed to face down the Xi-Putin com- In reality, whether it be Bengal or Maharashtra, those in Trump. ers in the way Hillary Clin- advantage China and Paki- bo. Trump is vulnerable in authority have gleefully reached for the bludgeon of law roots of power While the 45th President ton allowed herself to be. stan over India. Not to men- view of his softness towards and the police to silence those who raise inconvenient is- of the US has his flaws, and On China, Biden has stuck tion benefit the military sales Vladimir Putin, but Biden is sues. The Information Technology laws have acquired multiple books have been to the State Department entities of Russia, who would less than convincing in at- so broad a scope that any manner of speech may be said m.d. nalapat pointing this out coinciden- handbook, which is to talk step in to fill the vacuum left tempting to show that he can to fall within its ambit. Sending to jail those responsible tally close to election night, in language that is subject by the US blocking weapons take on Moscow, while where for posts deemed to be criminal when they were simply he cannot be accused of be- to different meanings and sales to India. Biden cam- Beijing is concerned, all that inconvenient has become commonplace, and no party is ing anything other than his which conceals the intent, if paign managers seem to is visible from the Democrat- immune from such temptations. Freedom of speech is known for her steadfastness. own man. The volley of barbs any, of the speaker. If Trump have muzzled even Kamala ic standard bearer are either embraced by politicians when they are out of power, and Both are unlike younger son directed by President Trump can succeed in making the 3 Harris—for the few events in platitudes or silence. Such discarded almost the minute they assume high office. This Hunter, who seems fixated at China during this year’s November contest a referen- which she is allowed to par- reticence could act as fodder is unfortunate, as free speech needs to be protected. It is on making money, no mat- UNGA speech went against dum on who can best take on ticipate are lacklustre—with for the expected Republican expected that both the government and the courts will un- ter where or how. This has the obsession of diplomats China, he would win, as Joe poor choice of background volley against Hunter Biden derstand the importance of freedom of speech and curb made Hunter the second- everywhere to substitute Biden in his hyper-scripted together with boilerplate next month. Joe Biden would the tendency of public servants to use the processes of law weakest link in the chain of plain speaking with opaque establishment avatar seems introductory speeches. It is a have done well to support to punish those who exchange abuse for flattery. Abuse events that could catapult the language capable of multi- diffident about facing the surprise that Joe Biden does some of Trump’s initiatives is to be avoided, but those guilty of it get exposed when Bidens into the White House ple interpretations. Donald challenge to US global pri- not show some boldness in against China rather than they utter phrases that have an unpleasant flavour. Each on 20 January 2021. The Trump likes those who are macy that China under Xi using his Vice-Presidential reflexively oppose whatever instance of playing with facts needs to be called out, and weakest link is Joe Biden’s “less educated”, and what he Jinping represents. Aston- pick’s charisma and speak- the 45th President has been social media provides an immediate and convenient plat- resident Donald J. staff, several of whom are not said about China in that very ishingly, 17 Congresspersons ing skills. Both Harris and doing. Given the trouble that form for doing so. To use the police or the force of law on Trump refers to his even Barack Obama vintage, consequential UNGA speech from the Democratic Party in her partner Doug Emhoff geopolitical shifts mixed with such people adds rather than subtracts to their allure, for Popponent as “Sleepy but are unrepentant Clinton would have been understood the House of Representatives are attractive campaigners Covid-19 is causing, only a it gives them the sheen of martyrs. When Home Minister Joe”, while others in his en- groupies. They are uncom- even by a 12-year old. Several (including the youthful hope with an appeal far beyond bolder Biden can win the P. Chidambaram sent Anna Hazare to jail (most probably tourage use another epithet fortable with (and uncom- in the inner recesses of power of the Kennedy family, who considerations of ethnicity, contest for the White House, on the instructions of his boss, Sonia Gandhi), that single to describe the Democratic prehending of) the immense in Beijing fondly remember shamed the memory of John but neither seems to be in fa- not a candidate constrained action made Anna Hazare a national hero, although in challenger, “wimp”. They changes that have taken Vice-President Biden (as F. Kennedy by this action) vour with Biden’s handlers, by his staff, many of whom months he was overtaken in the public imagination by say that the only time Joe place in the world and in the well as Hunter), and expect demanded that “arms sales hence the sparing way in are operating in the belief Narendra Modi. By his image of integrity and efficiency, Biden showed genuine emo- US in particular since the that the US will go back to the to India stop”. The beneficia- which they are being used in that the 1990s can return. Of the Gujarat Chief Minister was able to give the BJP a Lok tion was when he reacted 1990s. While there are a few Clinton-Obama era where ries of such a move would be the 2020 campaign. Much of course, several in the Trump Sabha majority for the first time since 1984. Abuse was to Trump mocking soldiers outstanding talents within the PRC is concerned. This Pakistan and China, clearly this consists of scripted meet- train believe and act as rained upon CM Modi ever since he took office, but that did in wartime as “losers and the Biden campaign, many was a time of occasional countries closer to the hearts ings addressed by Biden with though the 1950s can return, not make any difference in the esteem with which people suckers”. From all accounts, of the key staffers are of the symbolic gestures designed and minds (if not the pocket- the help of a teleprompter, and hence the 2020 race for regarded him. What counts is performance, and so long Biden’s son and former sol- same vintage and mindset as for television audiences books) of these members of thereby forcing voters to con- the White House is develop- as there is performance, abuse and falsehoods will not dier Beau was an outstand- lost the 2016 election for Hill- camouflaging a welter of the House of Representatives trast diffident delivery with ing into a battle between two touch the image of a politician. Freedom of speech may ing human being, and not ary Clinton, by misinterpret- concessions. It was Presi- than the world’s most popu- the easy confidence of Presi- different revivalist visions. be inconvenient to some or to many, but so long as there just his family but his coun- ing the mind of the very vot- dent Clinton who opened lous democracy. Or the need dent Trump. An election is The more Joe Biden goes by is no incitement to violence or a call for secession, such try has been diminished by ers needed for victory. The the doors wide to the WTO to defend it against a Wah- the compound of intellect the dictates of some of his key outpourings in a democracy need to be tolerated. The more his loss. The former Vice- same excess of confidence as well as to technology im- habi military that breeds ter- and emotion, and in the lat- minders rather than listen to free the media, the more open public expression, the faster President is himself known seen in Team Clinton during ports from the US to China, ror organisations and an au- ter department, thus far the his own conscience and hark will problems be discovered and resolved, and the quicker to be a person of faith who the 2016 campaign has been even while keeping the door thoritarian expansionist state Biden campaign is much low- to the example set by Beau, will the country grow. India must learn from the example has preserved family values present in Team Biden, the barred to India. In contrast, intent on driving the US out er down the scale than events the closer Donald Trump is of China, where a gagged press and society let loose the and his own integrity, to- latter sharing the earlier be- Joe Biden seems to lack the of the Indo-Pacific and from involving Donald Trump and to securing a second term in monster of the pandemic on the world. gether with wife Jill, who is lief of the former that it was intensity of Donald Trump, the pinnacle of world leader- the formidable Mike Pence. the White House. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 10 comment analysis new delhi & www.sundayguardianlive.com

T ime for revamp ASSEMBLY ELECTION Former Bihar States must be given DGP set for more responsibilities political plunge Our Constitution is more unitary than federal. between us family planning, and drugs. or mining production, irri- sions do away with a state or Magistrates and Secretaries. All residual matters—those gation & power generation. redraw its territorial bound- Not surprisingly, most state not included in any list re- Most so-called residuary aries, a Damocles’ sword al- political leaderships view pankaj vohra main a Central responsibil- subjects can now be identi- ways hanging over the heads such officers as employees opinion ity. Also, in case of a conflict fied and allocated. Constitu- of state governments. of the Centre rather than as between a Central and state tional Articles 245, 249 and Another administrative staff with full loyalty to their law on any concurrent item, 252, all of which impinge on issue causing much con- state-cadres. As was expected, former AJAY DUA the former prevails. Such the powers of the states, must sternation is the institution Almost all Indian states are Bihar Director General of provisions have tipped the be deleted with the only situ- of Governors of states who sizeable in area and popu- Police, Gupteshwar Pandey, balance of power heavily ation when the Centre could are appointees of the Cen- lation, resembling many is all set for a future in poli- in favour of the Centre, and legislate on state subjects be- tral government. As widely countries around the world. tics; he opted for voluntary provinces, than to federal made the Constitution more ing the grounds of national known, many Governors fail Most state-residents rarely retirement days ahead of the countries such as the United unitary than federal. emergencies. to remain politically neutral travel beyond their nearby Assembly poll announce- States, Canada or Australia. Furthermore, in case a state Assigning more responsi- as is Constitutionally and towns and districts. It is the ment, and is now expected to Fast-forward 70 years to legislates on any state subject bilities to states, as opposed ethically expected of them, elected bodies of panchayats contest as the JD (U) nominee today, and with a minuscule that may impose restrictions to adding to the Concurrent but instead virtually serve and municipal bodies, fol- from Buxar. In 2009 too, the threat of internal secession on trade and commerce, pri- List, would enable doing as “agents of the Centre”. lowing the 74th Constitu- 1987 batch IPS officer had now persisting, the situation or approval of the President away with several of the Union Governments have on tional amendment effected shown his inclination to enter public life but his request for has vastly changed. Several of India (a euphemism for the extant Central ministries many occasions used Gover- in 1986, that are expected to a VRS was turned down. The indication of his interest in the differences between the Cen- Central government), has to and agencies and make for nors to invoke Article 356 to bear responsibility for deliv- electoral arena first came to light when he proactively took tre and states have been adju- be obtained. After obtaining a leaner government. Argu- supersede duly elected state ery of many public services. up the investigation of the Sushant Singh Rajput case, by reg- dicated by the apex court and Rajya Sabha approval, Arti- ably, a more focused Central governments on one of the While this is highly desired, istering an FIR on a complaint filed by the late actor’s father, istory was written these decisions have the force cle 249 empowers the Centre government would be more three prescribed grounds: the shift of responsibilities despite the fact that the Mumbai police was probing the matter. on 26 January 1950 of law. Two full-fledged Com- to also legislate on State List impactful, allowing it to fo- breakdown of the Constitu- towards local government The complex mystery is now being handled by the CBI, which Hwhen India was de- missions under the chair- subjects if deemed in public cus on its primary responsi- tional machinery of admin- has not come about within was asked to take over the case by the Apex Court. Legal lumi- clared a Republic, based on manship of eminent justices interest. Article 245 of the bilities of defence and foreign istration, failure in law and states for much the same for naries continue to debate whether this was legally permissible a Constitution declaring it a (R.S. Sarkaria and M.M. Constitution facilitates the affairs, monetary, banking order maintenance, or gross which the Centre has not but had no choice after the Court gave its ruling, thus ensuring Union of States. For the first Puchhi) have exhaustively Centre to give directives to and currency issues, external financial mismanagement. transferred power to states that the verdict was implemented both in letter and spirit. time, a diverse land stretch- deliberated the relationship. the states in regard to the ex- trade, atomic energy, space, The gubernatorial recom- i.e., the human tendency to However, Pandey courted controversy when he used inap- ing from Kashmir to Kan- However, rather than taking ercise of their executive pow- and scientific and technical mendations and the Central retain powers and patron- propriate language for Rhea Chakraborty, the deceased actor’s yakumari and from Kutch a fresh, holistic view, only in- ers, while Article 252 allows research. Simultaneously, government actions based on age with themselves, and not live-in partner, stating that she had no “aukaat” to question the to Kohima, saw a common cremental approaches were the Centre to legislate on a states will acquire more re- these, have many a times not upset a prevailing system. Bihar police. It was more or less clear in political circles that flag flutter over it. With over made with piecemeal Consti- state subject if two states or sponsibility in policy-mak- met with judicial approvals Making for co-operative the Sushant Singh Rajput case had become an issue which all 600 princely kingdoms com- tutional amendments being more request it. The Gover- ing, devising programmes when challenged. federalism calls for truly em- political parties in the state were raking up, with the purpose ing together and joining erst- incorporated. Over the years, nor of a state can also reserve and measuring outcomes— Given the Governors’ lim- powering the states legisla- of encashing in on his popularity. while British India, a unified and under all permutations any Bill approved by its state all matters of day to day con- ited worthwhile functions, tively, administratively and Thus, Pandey’s VRS did not come as an unexpected devel- Bharat was formed in which of ruling parties, states have legislature for the President’s cern to their citizens and to it is time to think of doing financially. Unfortunately, opment as he prepares for his post-police innings in politics. the writ of one national gov- grown discontented; a phe- consideration, who retains whom their accountability away with this structure of it is unlikely to happen ever To his credit, he has enjoyed a fine reputation in Bihar, and ernment was henceforth nomenon which seems to be absolute veto power. will become even more real. Centrally appointed Gov- at the initiative of a Central has been perceived as an officer who always had his ear to to run. The new India was growing by the day. Legislatively, that states are The Kesavanand Bharati ernors sitting over elected government and clearly the ground. His debut, therefore, could assist him to achieve organised into 16 provinces The Constitution lays down not adequately empowered case apex court judgement of Chief Ministers. Appropriate requires the states to work more success and thereby, in times to come, shape him as a with defined identities, re- areas of responsibilities be- has long been recognised. 1973 could be used to ensure alternatives are conceivable towards it systematically, principal player in public life. sponsibilities and powers. tween the Centre and the There is little reason to keep the sanctity of Centre-State for performance of all their unitedly and assudiously. Pandey is definitely not the first police officer, bureaucrat or Given these exceptional states in three lists—a Union the Central and Concurrent provisions in the Constitu- ceremonial and other func- To start the process, irre- a government functionary to enter politics. Former Mumbai circumstances, it was per- List that contains 99 subjects Lists as long as they are, and tion, both existing and pro- tions. Equally important, spective of their alignments, Police Commissioner, Satyapal Singh, had similarly quit the haps inevitable that the such as defence, foreign af- the Constitution must be re- posed. As done by the SC in the imposition of President’s all state level political lead- IPS to successfully contest in 2014 from the Baghpat Lok Sabha Central Government would fairs, money, banking, cur- balanced to reflect the cur- Constitutional amendments Rule by the Union Govern- ers must think beyond their constituency. (Baghpat was once represented by Chaudhury be made strong to maintain rency, railways, communi- rent reality and development for Right to Education in ment under Article 356 must nose and become cognisant Charan Singh, the most influential Jat leader of Western UP, the unity of the nation, with cations, postal services, and goals. With state and local 2006 and in 2018 for assert- be made conditional upon of their long-term interests. who briefly became the country’s Prime Minister.) Satyapal, provinces being assigned a higher judiciary; a State List governments closer to the ing judicial independence the prior endorsement of a For effectively materialising in the two elections he has fought, has defeated both Charan limited role that consider- with 59 subjects such as po- ground, and acutely aware in the National Judicial Ac- five-member Constitutional it, they need to make Centre- Singh’s son, Ajit Singh and grandson, Jayant Choudhury. He ably subjected them to the lice, law and order, prisons, of the needs of their citizenry, countability Commission bench of the Supreme Court State relations the foremost was also a minister in the Narendra Modi government and national government’s big land, agriculture , health- as opposed to a singular na- for appointment of judges, of India. issue in all future elections, continues to wield considerable influence in the Western UP brotherly approach in mat- care, roadways, local gov- tional government that has the Court could consider put- Perhaps equally controver- both provincial and nation- hinterland. ters both minor and major. ernments, and sanitation; to try and enforce consistent ting the Centre-State provi- sially, it is time to re-think the al. Prior to him, Nikhil Kumar, former Delhi Police Commis- Most members of the Con- and a Concurrent List with policy across a large, diverse sions in the basic structure of role of All India Services viz Dr Ajay Dua, a public policy sioner, was elected to the Lok Sabha from Aurangabad in stituent Assembly, led by the 55 subjects where both the land, there is no convincing the Constitution viz Part III IAS, IPS and IFS (Forest) specialist and a development Bihar, which in the past was represented by his father, the erudite Dr Rajendra Prasad, Union and states have roles rationale today for the Centre outside the future scope of whose members are selected economist by training, is an ex late Satyendra Narain Sinha and later by his wife, Shyama and the chief draftsman Dr in areas such as education, to have a role in several sub- Parliament. Such enabling and appointed by UPSC but Union Secretary. Sinha. Kumar’s foray into politics was after his superannua- Bhimrao Ambedkar, had far labour welfare, electricity, jects. Among others, these provisions would also ensure then required to be posted Part II of this article on Centre- tion, having inherited the political legacy of his illustrious more exposure to the English criminal and civil law proce- subjects include education, that the Centre cannot by the by states in key administra- State financial relationship will family—parents and grandfather. He subsequently went on system, a country without dures, marriage and divorce, healthcare, labour, industrial extant or any other provi- tive positions such as District appear next week. to become the Governor of Nagaland and Kerala. Yashwant Sinha, former Finance Minister, had an event- ful career in the IAS and was the General Manager of the HISTORIC BILLS Delhi Transport Corporation, as well as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Transport. He had his share of problems in the bureaucracy, and finally was granted VRS after Rajiv Gandhi Farmers first, finally became the Prime Minister. Sinha was a close aide of Chandra Shekhar and later a major functionary in the Atal Bihari Va- The passage of reformist, pro-farmer legislation in Parliament has unleashed the fury of those who stand to lose, and their proxies. jpayee government. His grasp over foreign affairs and finance made him one of the most distinguished leaders of his time. amendment to the antiquated which should be applauded Hopefully, export bans will only. While it is unlikely that His son, Jayant, succeeded him as the BJP representative from Essential Commodities Act by all those who care for the be consigned to the dustbin MSP will be abolished or Hazaribagh. and introduction of a Con- welfare of both farmers and of history. In fact, those who withdrawn anytime soon, Ajit Jogi was also in the IAS, being drafted into politics by tract Farming law will usher consumers. Naturally, these are genuinely pro-farmer there is a need to relook at Rajiv Gandhi. He rose to become the Chief Minister of Chhat- bottom line in competition and choice will be abhorred by those should have outraged over the way farmers are sup- tisgarh and at one time was considered to be extremely close Of course, when vested who could make extraordi- the government decision to ported by the Government. to the Congress interim president, Sonia Gandhi, though later interests are uprooted, the nary profits without having ban onion exports just days There must be a greater fo- there was a fallout. Likewise, Krishan Kumar from Kerala was Dhiraj Nayyar sound is deafening. The pas- to work hard for it. before the passage of the re- cus on income support so viewed as an upcoming bureaucrat-turned-politician but faded sage of reformist, pro-farmer Nothing in the new laws formist legislation. But that that crop failure or a crash away, after being first disillusioned with the Congress and then legislation in Parliament has prevents traders from run- decision did not hurt vested in prices does not destroy the BJP. K.J. Alphons, a 1979 batch IAS officer, is currently unleashed the fury of those ning mandis. But it permits interests, only farmers. lives and livelihoods. And in the Rajya Sabha and was also a member of the Narendra ties are frequent and futures who stand to lose, and their farmers to look for alter- It should also end the re- there must be a shift to pro- Modi government. R.K. Singh, former Home Secretary, now a markets for agriculture com- proxies. These are not farm- natives, whether selling to luctance to permit future viding more support on the minister, at one time enjoyed ’s patronage. modities have been frowned ers. Nor are they the average another mandi, or to a food trading in all agricultural input side—seeds, irrigation, He was the one who arrested L.K. Advani, when, in 1990, upon. Now, with the passage Indian consumer. These are processer, or the national commodities. Futures would credit and extension. It is In- his Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra reached Bihar, leading of three historic Bills, the Na- the interests who have prof- e-market or directly to cor- provide important price sig- dia’s tragedy that MSP alone thereupon to the collapse of the rendra Modi government has ited at the expense of both porates/retailers, or indeed nals to the famer and enable is equated with support for government after the BJP withdrew support to the Janata Dal. made a determined attempt farmers and consumers for anyone interested in buying a better and more informed farmers. If anything, over Manohar Singh Gill was principal secretary to Prakash to end the apparent conflict decades. Now, with their mo- farming produce. The farm- choice in sowing decisions. the years, MSP has distorted Singh Badal and later the Chief Election Commissioner. of interest between farmers nopoly profits under mortal er does not need protection Price signals are accepted as a sowing choices by encourag- He was brought into the Rajya Sabha by the Congress and and consumers. threat, they are flexing their from choices—he or she is means of resource allocation ing farmers to grow crops served as a minister in the government. It is no secret that under considerable financial and perfectly capable of choos- in other parts of the economy which may not be suitable Both Hardeep Singh Puri and S. Jaishankar, Union Ministers, The apparently contradic- the old system, both farm- political muscle to force a ing the best offer available. so why not agriculture? for the land they till and re- were eminent diplomats. tory objectives of provid- ers and consumers got a raw policy reversal. The Govern- Traders will be compelled to The other myth being sources they possess. And Most recently, former Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi ing remunerative prices to deal. It is the middlemen/ ment must stand firm. sweeten their offer to survive. perpetuated is that these created shortages of those was nominated to the Upper House, soon after relinquishing farmers and cheap food to traders who prospered by There seems to be a grave, Competition is a leveler in a reforms spell the end of commodities which are not the top office in the Supreme Court. Ajay Kumar, earlier with consumers have dogged In- profiting from the yawning possibly deliberate, mis- way the hand of government government support for the covered by the MSP system. the Congress and now with the AAP, is a former IPS officer dia’s political economy for a gap between farm gate price interpretation of the facts. can never be. farmer. Support for farmers This is the perfect moment who also took VRS. long time. Usually, the Gov- and retail price. Farmers The abolition of the APMC This will be a major achieve- is the cornerstone of India’s to switch from a faux protec- The short point is that Gupteshwar Pandey cannot be faulted ernment, irrespective of the got a low price for their pro- Act does not put any trader ment with long term implica- politics. And it will continue tion of farmer interests to for aspiring to have a future in politics, it being his fundamental party in power, weighs in fa- duce—the monopsony effect out of business. Nor does it tions. It will finally end the to be. The APMC Act and proactive support. The Modi right. However, what is objectionable to some of his critics is vour of consumer interests. (single buyer) of APMC Act prohibit the farmer from need for the Government’s Essential Commodities Act Government has taken the that he should have abstained from using the Sushant Singh After all, even small farmers and consumers paid a high selling to these traders at constant intervention in me- never worked in the interest first, bold steps in that direc- Rajput case as a springboard to enter public life. Nevertheless, and agricultural workers price—the monopoly (singer the existing mandis. What it diating the conflict between of farmers. The Minimum tion. he is well aware that one has to have a rhinoceros’ thick skin are net buyers of food. Thus, seller) effect. Now, the aboli- does do is introduce compe- higher prices for farmers and Support Price system works Dhiraj Nayyar is Chief Econo- to survive in this game. It is now for the people to make their export bans on commodi- tion of APMC monopolies, tition and choice, principles food inflation for consumers. in favour of certain farmers mist, Vedanta Resources. call. Between us. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi comment analysis 11 www.sundayguardianlive.com &

MAYHEM How united? Infantile disorder in Equality of nations not ‘House of Elders’ takes sheen off well organised session part of UN charter Bills passed, but Parliament fails to send out a message The UN is almost bankrupt and a lame duck of unity in times of external, internal peril. set up a panel to draft its for that the House had to be outfit. Does the world need the UN? strategy for this opposition. in order, that is, members State of the US government Mission of India to the UN. I In the Lok Sabha the inter- seated in their assigned made it abundantly clear served under three ambassa- vention by Congress MPs seats. The situation in the that “The veto provision dors, C.S. Jha, ICS 1933, B.N. opinion clearly indicated that a well House at that point merited was an absolute condition Chakravarty, ICS, 1929 and chalked out strategy was be- to be described as “grossly for the USA’s participation G. Parthasarthi. The Secre- ing cascaded. After a long disorderly”—the reason as i please in the UN. The superpow- taries General who served Shubhabrata Bhattacharya time such coordination was cited as per the Rule Book to ers would not be subject the UN during my time were visible. The government suspend eight members the to any collective coercion.” Dag Hammarskjold of Swe- had the numbers in both next day. K. Natwar Singh The veto ensured that the den—he was killed in an air Houses. In Lok Sabha the This was Rajya Sabha’s General Assembly or the Se- crash in September 1961 in passage of the farm bills was 252nd session. The 100th Ses- curity Council could not act Nodola in Northern Rhode- Question Hour, in which stormy but smooth. In Rajya sion of this august House against any of the Permanent sia (present day Zambia)— oral replies are given, was Sabha, which was consider- was held in 1977, when Ra- the obligations arising from Members. U. Thant of Burma and Kurt skipped due to exigency of ing the Bills after they had jya Sabha also celebrated its treaties and other sources The Mexican Delegate at Waldheim of Austria. The Covid protocol as the pres- been passed by Lok Sabha, Silver Jubilee. On 22 June of international law can be San Francisco said, “That present Secretary General, ence of a large number of the storm turned to bedlam. 1977, the House feted Bh- maintained and to promote under the UN Charter the Antonio Guterres was Por- officials in the galleries was Some Opposition mem- upesh Gupta,who had been social progress and better mice would be disciplined, tugal Prime Minister. not feasible. However, spe- bers insisted on division member from the very first standards of life in larger but the lions would be free.” The UN is almost bankrupt cial mentions and “Zero of votes on amendments day in 1952. Leader of the freedom, and for these ends In other words the vital in- and a lame duck outfit. Does Hour” references to mat- moved. Deputy Chairman, House, L.K. Advani and to practice tolerance and live terests of the P5 would not the world need the UN? ters of public importance Harivansh Narain Singh, Leader of Opposition, Kam- in peace with one another be subject to UN jurisdiction. With some hesitation I say, gave opportunity to 230 Lok whose unanimous election lapati Tripathi led the House as good neighbours, and to For 15 years the UN re- yes. The Monsoon Session of Sabha and 198 Rajya Sabha on the first day of the Ses- in praising the Communist unite our strength to main- mained a white man’s club. *** Parliament, held under ex- members to take the floor. sion had seen encomiums MP from West Bengal. It’s tain internal peace and se- Ghana was the first black Alan Nazareth joined the In- traordinary circumstances, All legislation was passed being showered on him perhaps an irony that on he Charter of the curity, and to ensure, by the nation to become a member dian Foreign Service in 1959. was exemplary. It goes to the by voice vote. No division from all sides of the House, 21 September 2020 when United Nations was acceptance of principles and in 1957. His was a large batch, nearly credit of Vice President Ven- took place either or the main was surrounded by slogan members were expelled Tsigned on 26 June the institution of methods, a dozen, if I am not mistaken. kaiah Naidu and Lok Sabha Bill or on the amendments shouting MPs, who defied due to “gross disorder” it in- 1945 at San Francisco, at the that armed force shall not The Mexican In those days Prime Min- Speaker Om Birla that both moved—and that makes social distancing norms cluded members from West conclusion of the United Na- be used, save in common in- ister used chambers of Parliament this Monsoon Session an in full view of TV cameras Bengal and Communist tions Conference on Inter- terest, and to employ, inter- Delegate at San to meet the new entrants. were commandeered to exception. The brouhaha (the Session is telecast live). MPs. West Bengal is also national Organisation, and national machinery for the Francisco said, I took Alan’s batch to meet hold the session, ensuring which affected the Session Members encountered known for its “bhadralok” came into force on 24 Octo- promotion of the economic the Prime Minister. Half social distancing and ob- stemmed from the Opposi- House Marshalls, who tried (gentlemanly) culture. The ber 1945. and social advancement of “Under the UN way through, Foreign Secre- servance of Covid protocol. tion’s feeling that discus- to protect the chair. Accord- behaviour of its MPs in the In 1965, the membership all peoples, have resolved tary Subimal Dutt came and The spurt in the pandemic, sion and debate was being ing to clips available from end of this session was a far of the Security Council in- to combine our efforts to ac- Charter the mice whispered into the Prime which affected MPs and curtailed. The suspension the cell phones of some cry from that image. creased from 11 members complish these aims. would be disciplined, Minister’s ear. Immediately caused the death of a Min- of eight Rajya Sabha MPs Members who recorded the As the successfully con- to 15. The Permanent Five, “Accordingly, our respec- he got up to leave, “I have to ister, necessitated curtailing due to their behaviour on melee, the microphone was ducted session ended in USA, UK, USSR, France and tive Governments, through but the lions leave for Parliament.” Later the session to just ten days. 20 September, which trig- attempted to be broken; rule disharmony Parliament of China were not touched. representatives assembled would be free.” we learnt that the Dalai Sittings took place even over gered Opposition boycott of book torn; and the podium India did not pass a resolu- The preamble of the Char- in the city of San Francisco, Lama had arrived in India the intervening weekend. proceedings in both Houses was infiltrated upon. tion to reflect the unity of ter is the only genuinely in- who have exhibited their full after escaping from Tibet. Lok Sabha sat till midnight in the penultimate period of Describing the behaviour the people of this country in spiring part of the Charter. powers found to be in good The Seventy-Fifth session Alan Nazareth’s autobiog- to clear legislation. Rajya the Session, is attributed to of his opponents in 1920, the face of the twin external Let me quote: “We the peo- and due form, have agreed of the UN General Assembly raphy, A Ring Side Seat to His- Sabha saw unprecedented this “curtailment of discus- the leader of the Russian and internal threats—China ples of the United Nations to the present Charter of the opened a few days back. On tory, makes absorbing, lively bedlam. sion”. Revolution, Vladimir Illych and Covid. The word Parlia- determined to save succeed- United Nations and do here- account of the Covid men- and compelling reading. He In their respective valedic- The time for discussion Lenin, had coined the term ment evolved in the 12th and ing generations from the by establish an International ace, Heads of States are not had an exceptionally suc- tory speeches, the presiding was limited. Metamorpho- “infantile disorder”. Rajya 13th centuries from French scourge of war, which twice organisation to be known as participating in the 75th ses- cessful career. After retire- officers of the two Houses sis of Ordinances, which Sabha, which is ineptly re- parlement, derived from par- in our lifetime has brought the United Nations.” sion. Prime Minister Naren- ment he became a Gandhian. reported, respectively, that had been promulgated in ferred to as “House of El- ler (to speak). Discussion untold sorrow to mankind Equality of nations was ex- dra Modi in his three-minute His book, Gandhi’s Outstand- Lok Sabha productivity the past few months, into ders” saw unprecedented and debate can certainly be and to reaffirm faith in fun- cluded. The Permanent Five speech on TV (the time limit ing Leadership, won praises has been 167% and Rajya legislation was top on pri- disruption caused by infan- agenda of Parliament. But damental rights, in the dig- were given the power of the set by the UN for Heads) even from President Barack Sabha 100.47%. The session ority. Changes in the farm tile disorder. According to disruption? Demonstrations nity and worth of the human veto. Any one of them could spoke, if I am not mistaken, Obama, the Dalai Lama and saw the passage of 25 Bills. sector and in labour laws the chairman of the House, in the well of the House, person, in the equal rights of block any resolution or pro- of strengthening of the UN. Mikhail Gorbachev, whose Written replies to 2,300 were on cards. Opposition Vice President Naidu, Dep- unfortunately, often deny men and women and of na- posal of the General Assem- He did not suggest how this foreword makes gripping questions were provided in to the Ordinances had been uty Chairman Harivansh democratic contestation of tions large and small and to bly of any member state or a was to be achieved. reading. Lok Sabha and 1,567 in Ra- voiced by many Opposi- had announced 13 times that ideas—the leitmotif of Par- establish conditions under group of member states. I was, for nearly five years, This book will attract a jya Sabha. The traditional tion parties. Congress had he will call for a division, but liamentary democracy. which justice and respect for Cordell Hull, Secretary of a member of the Permanent wide readership.

Editorial director Prof. M.D. Nalapat People Of The Sacred Books Managing Editor Pankaj Vohra Editor Joyeeta Basu Hinduism islam sikhism christianity Printed and Published by Rakesh Sharma for and on Ashtang Yoga 4 The power of Selecting leaders a Jesus raises Lazarus behalf of MJP Media Pvt Ltd. By Prarthna Saran Printed at: spirituality crucial process from the dead Good Morning India DHARANA: The mind clings naturally to that which By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan By Davinder P.S. Sandhu By Rev. Dr. Richard Howell Media Pvt. Ltd, it believes contains joy. Deep concentration and in- Khasra No. 39, Village Basai quiry reveal that the joy we seek from objects guar- Some people have extraordinary inherent qualities, In 1539, Guru Nanak hinted to his followers that Jesus’ raised Lazarus from the dead. This action is a Brahuddin Nagar, Gautam antees no permanent satisfaction. In fact the charm due to which they can become masters of all situa- the mantle of Guru would now be passed on. A change sign of who Jesus is; the promised Messiah and the Buddha Nagar, Noida, dies in your own embrace! Yet we ‘lay waste our tions. Such individuals can, when they come to a of leadership is always an important time in the life of Son of God. And Jesus has the authority to give life Uttar Pradesh, (U.P.-201301). powers’ in the futile and idiotic search for joy, seek- gathering, win the hearts and minds of people sim- an organization, because it gives an insight into future (John 5:21) and to resurrect the dead (5:28-29). It also The Editorial offices: ing it where it lies not. The mind of the true seeker ply by appearing there. There is a saying about such directions. The Guru’s family favoured his sons, but he demonstrated Jesus’ claim to be “the resurrection 275 Captain Gaur Marg soon discovers the futility of this foolish search, and persons: They came, they saw, they conquered. chose to test for a successor. The event finds mention and the life” (John 11:25). John had said, “in Him was Sriniwaspuri Okhla turns single pointedly towards the true source of This kind of ability to conquer is not the monop- in the Guru Granth Sahib, through the hymns of poets life and the life was the light of all humankind” (John New Delhi - 110065 joy. When one applies oneself to a single idea , con- oly of extraordinary people. Any ordinary person Balwand and Sata. The Guru throws a pitcher into a 1:4). The eternal life that Jesus gives begins here and Mumbai Office: Juhu Hotel, sistently to the exclusion of all other thoughts, it is can win the hearts and minds of people, provided muddy pool, and call for its retrieval. Again, he asks now for those who believe in Him. The gospel is Juhu Tara Road, Santa called ‘Dharana’, concentration. Concentration is he knows the law of nature and can avail of it by for a wall to be built, and then strikes it down, asking called good news because God has acted in time and Cruz-West, Mumbai-400049. the only weapon to help us pierce through the high the power known as the power of spirituality. Ac- for it to be built again. history on behalf of people and offers, by His grace, Chandigarh Office: SCO-7, and mighty walls of the fortress of Truth. The seeker cording to the creation plan of God, all human be- The Guru gave the True Command; why should we hesitate eternal life to all who turn to Him in faith and receive Sector 17-E, Chandigarh- must cultivate right values and seek spiritually and ings, both men and women, have two quite different to proclaim this? their forgiveness and freedom, free of cost. 160017 ethically evolved company (Satsang) to gain a steady qualities – the ego and the conscience. The ego sym- They did not obey His Word; they turned their backs on Him At the time Jesus raised Lazarus, many people RNI registration NO. mind that can be focussed for deep spiritual explo- bolizes arrogance, while the conscience symbolizes as Guru. were rejecting Jesus because He was not measuring DELENG/2010/31355 ration. “ The engine of the mind runs on the oil of modesty. Bhai Lehna, a loyal devotee, was however ever-will- up to their expectations of a political deliverer. Jesus’ perception ...... the more the perceptions the more When one’s conscience is touched it turns into su- ing to serve as directed. When others commented on claim to be the good shepherd who lays his life for Postal Regn no. DL(S) -17/3366/2013-15 the agitations.” Discovering clinging attachments, per conscience and the result is complete surrender. Lehna’s spoilt clothes, the Guru called it “the saffron the sheep baffled people. Jesus, however, knew that pinning them down and destroying them root and This second formula is within the reach of every of His court”. Guru Nanak then picked up a stick and as the Good Shepherd He must give His life for the For Subscriptions and branch is called ‘DHARANA’. human being, and can be used quite successfully threatened to hit all those who did not leave. All did, sheep (John 10:11, 15). Circulation Complaints Contact: DHYAN: Dharana enables Dhyan, (meditation). by him, however unintelligent or ordinary he may save Lehna. The Guru asked why he had not left, and While Jesus’ discussion with Lazarus’ sister, Mar- DELHI Unless we know what exactly meditation is, any be. When you use the formula of conscience you are Lehna said, “My Teacher, they have somewhere to go, tha, reveals Jesus’ divine authority over life and Mahesh Chandra Saxena quick fix attempt at it e.g. “ two minutes a day before turning your rival against himself and it is a fact that I have nobody but you.” A few days before he left his death, His discussion with Mary also reveals Jesus’ Mobile:+ 91 9911825289 office”, will never succeed. Prolonged meditation is one can fight against others, but no one has the pow- body, Guru Nanak appointed Bhai Lehna as the next perfect humanity (John 11: 28-37). Jesus was “deeply CHANDIGARH described by the scriptures as ‘Dhyan’. Even to be er to fight against himself. Herein lies the conquer- Teacher, on 2nd September 1539, renaming him as moved in spirit and troubled” (v. 33). Jesus even wept Contact: Suman Singh capable of attempting meditation one should have ing ability of a modest person. Guru Angad. Guru Angad Dev earned his living by (v. 35), so that those around Him said, “See how he Mobile: + 919555309181 developed a steady hold on one’s thoughts. Rising One can say that the second formula is a risky twisting coarse grass into rope, all offerings went into a loved Lazarus” (v. 36). This is very reassuring to us For All Advertising Queries from the instinctual level of animal man in thoughts formula. There is every possibility that this kind of common fund for running a community kitchen, and as it was to Mary. These actions reveal the tender- Contact: Suman Singh and deeds, one gains full mastery in controlling and behaviour will make the other person more arro- the congregation sat together to partake of the same ness of Jesus’ heart, that as the Good Shepherd He Mobile: + 919555309181 directing one’s thought flow. The mind is hard wired gant. He will react more aggressively. But this view food. He thus demonstrated dignity and importance also cares. Jesus’ display of His love and compas- E-mail: to vacillate. The yogi can , through practice settle his is completely unfounded, because it is due to an ig- of honest labour, and the oneness of all beings. Guru sion also sets the stage for the miracle to follow. The suman.singh mind, using his discriminating intellect. Purified norance of the power of nature, or more precisely, Nanak Dev had passed on the mantle to a befitting raising of Lazarus from the dead, declared Jesus to @sunday-guardian.com actions and thoughts slowly integrate the mind and the power of spirituality. According to nature if you leader. The scriptures illustrate the importance of a be the Master of humankind’s last and most merci- ISN 0976 - 0008 intellect, chastening them into a clear brilliance and challenge someone’s ego, your success is doubtful leader’s own conduct, but also on the importance of less enemy, death. Even today, in our most desperate piercing sharpness that enables meditation. but when you challenge someone’s conscience, then selection of future leaders. death like circumstance the compassionate Jesus is Prarthna Saran, President Chinmaya Mission Delhi. your success is guaranteed. with us, and we can experience His presence by call- This first appeared on 29 May, 2016. The writer could not write this week due to Email: [email protected] www.cpsglobal.org unavoidable circumstances. His latest column will appear soon. ing upon Him. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 12 comment analysis new delhi & www.sundayguardianlive.com

HISTORY Tagore and Khilafat: Only Hinduism can relieve world from meanness Tagore was concerned about the lack of unity among Hindus and argued that unity was the bulwark against the destructive tides of Semitic religions.

co-opt the Moplas in its fight hour of action in to a night of not keep silent. Meaningless only thorny shrubs you can- to abolish all other religions. for Swaraj, the Moplas under merriment. That’s why they rituals keep the Hindus di- not expect any fruit.” This is called Bolshevism the leadership of Ali Mu- are always struck by the ghost vided in hundred sects. So in religion. Only the path saliar and Variamkunnath at the middle of the day.” we are suffering from series ‘ONLY ISM’ OR shown by the Hinduism can opinion Kujahammed Haji mounted of defeats. We are tired and BOLSHEVISM IN relieve the world form this a war on Hindus and estab- GET RID OF OUR worn-out by the fortunes by RELIGION meanness.” lished Al-Daula (Islamic IDIOCY the internal external enemies. Tagore was also worried J. Nandakumar State), which lasted till they In the same article, Tagore The Muslims are united in re- about the new religion that PAN-ISLAMISM were captured and killed by writes: “The king of Mala- ligion and rituals. The Bengali was taking shape in the cul- MAKES the British army. bar once gave away his Muslims the South Indian tural horizon of India. He HINDU-MUSLIM UNITY Delving deep into the cause throne to idiocy. That idiocy Muslims and even the Mus- believed that Universalism IMPOSSIBLE Rabindranath Tagore quoted of the riots, Tagore notes: is still ruling Malabar from a lims outside India—all are preached by Hindutva is Pan-Islamism is a politi- from the report of Dr Munje, “In another portion of the Hindu throne. That’s why the united. They always stand the only solution to divisive cal tool that gives primacy submitted to Jagat Guru San- report, Dr. Munje briefed that Hindus are still being beaten Rabindranath Tagore untied in face of danger. The and destructive influences of to religion—Ummah—and karacharya of Sringeri Shara- eight hundred years back, and saying that God is there, broken and divided Hindus religions emerged from the excludes culture, ethnicity da Peeth Math, on the Mopla Hindu king of Malabar al- turning the faces towards the upon the Muslim society, he will be again humiliated by Western thought process. He and country. The Khilafat riots of 1921 thus: “The Hin- lowed the Arabs to settle in sky. Throughout India we al- never faced any resistance— the Muslims. ‘You are a moth- wanted India to hold on to movement showed how dus of Malabar are generally his state, following the advice lowed idiocy to rule and sur- he called in the name of one er of children, one day you the Hindu ethos and believed pan-Islamism played out in speaking mild and docile and of Brahmin ministers. The render ourselves to it. That God ‘Allah-ho-Akbar’. On will die, passing the future of that other religious visions India. Pan-Islamism poses have come to entertain such a Muslims were encouraged kingdom of idiocy—the fatal the other hand, when we Hindus society on the weak were detrimental to the intel- a threat to the unity and moral fear of the Moplas that to convert Hindus in such an lack of common sense—was (Hindus) call will call, ‘come shoulders of your children, lectual and moral progress of integrity of the country. In the moment any such trouble extent that, the king direct- continuously invaded by the on, Hindus’, who will re- but think about their future’.” humanity. “There are two re- an interview to the Times arises; the only way of escape ed every fisherman’s family Pathans, sometimes by the spond? We, the Hindus, are In the article Swamy Shrad- ligions in earth, which have of India (18-4-1924), Tagore lthough social and the Hindus can think of is to to allow one of their family Mughols and sometimes by divided in numerous small dananda, Tagore writes: “So, distinct enmity against all states: “A very important political leaders of run for life leaving their chil- members to be converted into the British. From outside we communities, many barri- if the Muslims beat us and other religions. These two factor which is making it AIndia such as Rabi- dren and womenfolk behind, Islam. The reason was very can only see the torture done ers—provincialism—who we, the Hindus, tolerate this are Christianity and Islam. almost impossible for Hin- ndranath Tagore, Dr B.R. to take care of themselves as simple, adherent king and his by them, but they are only the will respond overcoming all without resistance—then, we They are not just satisfied du-Muslim unity to become Ambedkar, Veer Savarkar best they could, thinking ministers considered the voy- tools of torture, not really the these obstacles? We suffered will know that it is made pos- with observing their own an accomplished fact is that and Annie Besant had clearly perhaps honestly that if the age as against religion. They cause. The real reason of the from many dangers, but we sible only by our weakness. religions, but are determined the Muslims cannot confine brought out the real commu- Moplas attack them without delegated the responsibility torture is our lack of common could never be united. When For the sake of ourselves to destroy all other religions. their patriotism to any one nal motive behind the 1921 any previous molestation, of coastal security upon the sense and our idiocy, which Mohammed Ghouri brought and our neighbour Muslims That’s why the only way to country. I had frankly asked Mopla rebellion that led to God, the Almighty and the Muslims, those who used be- is responsible for our suffer- the first blow from outside, also, we have to discard our make peace with them is to (the Muslims) whether in the the genocide of the Hindus in Omniscient, is there to teach lieve in their common sense ings. So we have to fight this the Hindus could not be weakness. We can appeal embrace their religions.” event of any Mohammedan Malabar, Marxist historians, them lesson and even to take a and not in ‘Manu’.” idiocy that divided the Hin- united, even in the days of to our neighbour Muslims, (Original works of Rabin- power invading India, they driven by a political agenda, revenge on their behalf.” Dr Munje said in another dus and imposed slavery on imminent danger. When the ‘Please don’t be cruel to us. dranath Vol. 24 page 375, (Muslims) would stand side had turned facts on their head Tagore further states: “Hin- part of his report that, eight us ...If we only think about Muslims started to demolish No religion can be based on Vishwa Bharti; 1982.) by side with their Hindu and presented it as a regular dus are not accustomed to hundred years ago, the Hin- the torture we will not find the temples one after another, genocide’—but this kind of Tagore had compared Se- neighbours to defend their struggle for freedom against handle earthly matters in du king of Malabar on the any solution. But if we can get and to break the idols of Gods appeal is nothing, but the mitic religions to Bolshe- common land. I was not the British and their feudal a realistic way, they have advice of his Brahmin min- rid of our idiocy, the tyrants and Goddesses, the Hindus weeping of the weak person. vism, which was spreading satisfied with the reply I got supporters. It is an irony that snuggled themselves in the isters, made big favor to the will surrender to us.” fought and died in small When the low pressure is cre- very fast in the country in from them… Even such a the family members of some hegemony of ‘nitya’ and Arab Muslims to settle in his units, but they could not be ated in the air, storm comes those days. Communism man as Mr. Mohammad Ali protagonists of the Commu- ‘anitya’ and have lost their kingdom. Even he appeased UNITED AND united. It has been provided spontaneously; nobody can is also a sequel to Christi- (one of the famous Ali broth- nist movement in Kerala were common sense. As they insult the Arab Muslims by con- ORGANISED HINDU that we were killed in differ- stop it for sake for religion. anity. In the article, “Aat- ers, the leaders of the Khila- victims of the worst commu- God by replacing intelligence verting the Hindus to Islam SOCIETY ent ages due to our discord.” Similarly, if weakness is maparichapa”, published fat Movement-the compiler) nal riots that happened in the with rituals, projecting God to an extent to making law Tagore was concerned about According to Tagore, mean- cherished and be allowed in his book Parichaya, Tagore has declared that under no state, but still tried to paint it in place of self-reliance, they for compulsory conversion the lack of unity among Hin- ingless rituals keep Hindus to exist, torture comes auto- states: “When two-three dif- circumstances is it permis- as a movement against the suffer, and don’t understand of a member of each Hindu dus and argued that unity divided. In a letter to Heman- matically—nobody can stop ferent religions claim that sible for any Mohammedan, bourgeoisie by the proletariat. this due to inertia of mind.” fisherman family in to Is- was the bulwark against the tabala Sarkar, quoted in it. Possibly, the Hindus and only their own religions are whatever be his country, to Nobel laureate Rabindra- The violence unleashed by lam. Those, whose nature is destructive tides of Semitic Bengali weekly “Swastika” the Muslims can make a fake true and all other religions stand against any Moham- nath Tagore had not left any the fanatic Moplas in Mala- to practice idiocy rather than religions. In an article titled (21-6-1899), the Nobel laure- friendship to each other for are false, their religions are medan.” room for speculation on the bar in 1921 triggered massive common sense, never can en- “Swamy Shraddananda” in ate states: “The terrible situ- a while, but that cannot last only ways to Heaven, con- Nandakumar is an RSS ideo- motive of the Mopla rioters. outrage across the country. joy freedom even if they are “Kalantar”, Tagore writes: ation of the country makes forever. As long as you don’t flicts cannot be avoided. logue and All India Convenor In his article titled “Samasya”, While the Congress tried to in the throne. They turn the “Whenever a Muslim called my mind restless and I can- purify the soil, which grows Thus, fundamentalism tries of Prajna Pravah.

HOMAGE Surgical strike revisited: When India shed its soft-nation tag Uri was the last straw. It was a dark Sunday for me as the Corps Commander to lose 18 young lives on my watch. the life of their soldiers. It is soldiers also used every trick countries to isolate China on a low investment-high gain out of the book, but showed the Ladakh border standoff, option. great mettle and bravery to inter alia, are a good example So, Uri was the last straw. It inflict heavy damage on the of synergising instruments generally was a dark Sunday for me as enemy. In so doing, we lost of power towards a national the Corps Commander to lose 20 bravehearts, led bravely endeavour. We also see that speaking 18 young lives on my watch, by their commanding offi- when military creates some to go to the site and see the cer, Colonel Santosh Babu. tactical strength it generates fires burning, to salute their A couple of months later, invaluable bargaining levers Lt Gen Satish Dua (Retd) mortal remains—eighteen of our soldiers occupied a few in diplomacy and a comfort- them—next morning. But it mountain peaks south of able position on the negotiat- was also a day of resolution. Pangong Tso. It has pre- ing table. the outskirts of Srinagar, took The Defence Minister and empted the Chinese strengths This all began with the sur- 66 hostages in the biggest Army Chief were in my of- in the tactical battle space as gical strike four years ago. I hostage situation in India. fice on the very same day, the well as on the negotiating can still feel the pain. But it And then in a repeat attack, day when there was outrage table. This has frustrated is also satisfying to note that the neighbouring building, in the country, the nation was the Chinese side that never the bravery of our soldiers not also a six-storey building, was incensed, the leadership was imagined that India would only exacted an appropriate attacked by suicide terrorists agitated, and on a day when take such proactive steps. revenge by launching a sur- a few months later. all soldiers wanted revenge, This is the new Indian gical strike on the terrorists’ REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO: Indian Army women soldiers stand guard in Bandipora district in this These and many more such they wanted to avenge the 12 August photo. For the first time, women soldiers have been deployed along the LOC in order paradigm. This is a changed camps across the LoC, but The surgical strike was high profile terrorist attacks death of the comrades. The to keep a check on weapons and drug smuggling in the area. ANI India—newer and stronger. also paved the way for bold launched four years ago. Ac- were launched from across leadership agreed to a bold India has finally shed the ripostes when required. tually it was launched on 28 the LOC, employing the plan of causing similar hurt Ten days later, an operation new red lines. It set the stage been silently announced, soft-nation tag. While I have I pay homage to those who September 2016, completed low cost option of sending to the other side; of taking was launched at multiple for Balakot airstrikes when whereby India has started recounted only the military made the supreme sacrifice and announced on the 29th in terrorists; they also used the battle into his territory; points and the desired results terror attack took taking an overt bold stand actions, several strong steps in Uri and a General Salute morning. In fact, it began on the deniability card. We, on of boldly striking across at were achieved. Next morning place. where required. have been taken in the po- to the bravehearts, who went 18 September when terrorists the other hand, could never the terrorists’ camps across the Army DGMO called up Far removed geographi- This year the Indo-China litical, diplomatic and eco- across and launched the sur- attacked the Army Camp at use such devices. Hence, the the Line of Control. Some- his Pakistani counterpart cally, let us also not forget the standoff took place at several nomic fields for the good of gical strike. Uri and we lost 18 soldiers. Indian Army, even the whole thing that had never been and told them we did it. We manner in which we stood points in Ladakh and some the country. To list a current Jai Hind! It had perhaps been build- Indian state, was becoming done before at this magni- did this because you did Uri. resolutely against China to of them became more bel- relevant combination, the Lt General Satish Dua is a former ing up even earlier, when more defensive. It is well tude and depth by our coun- We don’t want to expand it protect the interests of Bhu- ligerent than others. While political actions of banning Corps Commander in Kashmir, terrorists attacked the airbase known that the one who has try. Political and diplomatic further; the ball is in your tan at the India China Bhu- seemingly engaged in nego- Chinese apps, economic who retired as Chief of Integrated at Pathankot in January and initiative will be able to inflict instruments of power were court now. All that denial tan tri-junction at the Dolam tiations, Galwan became a steps of curbs on FDI and Defence Staff. His book cover- caused damage to life and larger damage. Especially synergised, in the on-going and bluster came because plateau. These are the major turning point, where faced participation in tenders for ing this and other stories will be property. Then in February, when they launch terrorists, UN General Assembly ses- Pakistan did not know how to operations where a new secu- with unimaginable Chinese business, and diplomatic published by this year end. Views they occupied a building on Pakistan does not even risk sion and outside. react. And India had drawn rity paradigm seems to have devices or techniques, Indian confabulations with other expressed are personal. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi legally speaking 13 www.sundayguardianlive.com

PART II The delay disaster: Are there solutions to the pendency pandemic? Our legal system is heading for disaster, with undertrial numbers increasing and civil case pendency rising to levels that make the system of contract enforcement untenable.

ment appellant) in the The Civil Courts should that prevent unnecessary name of ensuring substan- The Law Commission of India reports and several policy papers, adopt and require uniform- appeals and references to tive justice regardless of when read together suggest that we must look for somewhat ly formatted pleadings that the courts especially for tax any “procedural” law such are based on templates with cases; separately for crimi- opinion as the Limitation Act. radical steps and novel approaches to achieve even reasonable specified portions limiting nal cases: Taking words well-ad- targets for pendency to reduce rather than for it to grow at a the number of characters Where an accused is umbrated by the Supreme (such as a field for a synop- falsely implicated and is Amir Singh Pasrich Court in A. R. Anthulay’s healthy rate exceeding our current GDP growth. Numerous sis), standard paragraphs honourably discharged, the case, “Fair, just and reason- for limitation, territorial courts must compensate able procedure implicit in documents in the public domain identify the problem and and pecuniary jurisdiction, such persons based on a Article 21 of the Constitution commentators have suggested dozens of possible solutions. ordinary check-box style fixed formula referencing pensatory mechanisms for creates a right in the accused and special prayers, iden- their income, period of in- wrongful imprisonment to be tried speedily. Right to tification of relief and clas- carceration plus damages and falsely implicated un- speedy trial is the right of the sification by statute, spe- for loss of reputation, etc. dertrials are patently lack- accused. The fact that a speedy cific formats for pleadings where appropriate pay- ing. In 2018, the Supreme trial is also in the public inter- that reflect urgency, special able by the false complain- Court granted Rs 50 lakh est or that it serves the societal man and documentary im- cerned litigant, his original progress, but this is yet to circumstances, etc. These ant, the State or such other compensation to the ISRO interest also, does not make it perfection. While the limits grievance as a plaintiff has be seen. formats should be evolved person as the court finds scientist Mr. Nambi Naray- any-the-less the right of the ac- of that generosity are yet been lost in years of delay In a webinar hosted by to help judges to identify is- to be responsible, grossly anan who had been falsely cused. It is in the interest of all to be identified, we need to and often the litigation bal- the PHD Chamber of Com- sues faster before a hearing negligent or complicit (this implicated in an espionage concerned that the guilt or in- decide whether the courts ance struck at the interim merce and Industry on the and to determine if a case is will take care of many false case in 1994, he had been nocence of the accused is deter- should jettison some of that stages would be seriously topic of “Unclogging the rightly filed in the correct cross-FIRs and cases of he first part of this found not guilty by the Su- mined as quickly as possible…” generosity and indulgence disturbed once the court Indian Legal System” on forum. complaints for “wreaking article concerning preme Court in 1998. He and in Akhtari Bi’s case in exchange for faster adju- steps-in to decide the mat- 26 September 2020, two The High Courts rules vengeance” consequent to Tthe backlog of cases was relatively lucky, most (2001) 4 SCC 355 “It is in- dication. After writing this ter one way or the other. Hon’ble Delhi High Court should set out automati- genuine complaints). pending in Indian courts serious offence cases take cumbent upon the high courts article, I might rightfully be At this stage defendants judges acknowledged that cally determined time-lines Trials must be conducted was published in The Daily much longer and most re- to find ways and means by tak- denied indulgences based express shock that the case pendency was increasing, for various stages of litiga- by strict reference to a sin- Guardian on 26 September. leased detainees don’t get ing steps to ensure the disposal on these very generous has actually come-up for but they pointed out that tion operating as a default gle-session trial before the The backlog is euphemisti- compensated. The positive of criminal appeals, particu- principles and ideology, trial or hearing and scram- the judiciary has already minimum standard with same judge who will also cally described simply as outcome award of com- larly such appeals where the but unless there is a change ble to derail its progress so been quite conscious of automatically imposed decide the matter (this will “pendency”. For those of pensation 20 years after accused are in jails, that the of mindset, I strongly be- as to continue the status quo the problem and the en- costs for delay determined avoid delays arising from you who missed this statis- the adjudication still dem- matters are disposed of within lieve that our legal system unless the Plaintiff had se- tire court was taking steps by judicial order or by partial adjudication). tic in part – I, about 20,000 onstrates our nonchalant the specified period not exceed- is heading for disaster, cured an injunction, some to improve the situation. reference to the disputed A single cause-of-action cases have been added to approach to the passage of ing 5 years in any case”. From absolute saturation of our sensibly go for mediation. This approach is reflected amount (say 0.05% of the giving rise to multiple com- the “pendency” every day in time. these cases, one can appre- jails with undertrial num- These realities affect or- in the Delhi High Court disputed amount for every plaints in different State the past few months. That An accused is found in- ciate that the problem has bers increasing and civil dinary commercial cases, report on a pilot project day’s delay) and limits on jurisdictions must be inves- aside, since 2009 the num- nocent or adjudicated as been well recognized for case pendency rising to lev- property disputes, tenancy report optimistically titled the possible extension that tigated and tried through a ber of cases pending in the guilty after exhaustive pro- over two decades. In 2016, els that make the system of matters and other types of “The Zero Pendency Courts may be available to a party unified mechanism. District and High Courts cedures and a prolonged the Supreme Court refer- contract enforcement un- dispute, each one has its Project”. There is no doubt even after payment of such Prosecutors must be has actually increased even trial. Long procedures, ring to an affidavit of 24th tenable (we are presently own nuances and calls for that the Delhi High Court, costs (if we understand a monitored through stan- before the pandemic hit us delayed decision-making April 2015 recorded that in 163rd place for contract careful dispute resolution. several other High Courts “slow-over rate” for cricket dardised systems and pro- leading to tremendous in- and acceptance of this pen- “67% of all the prisoners in enforcement). At this rate, Having identified the as the Supreme Court are matches, we should be able vided with better resources justice for those who hap- dency pandemic seem to jails are under trial prisoners” the pendency of civil cases pendency problem in In- all reconsidering their ap- to understand the same in and incentives to assist the pen to be denied bail and have been inalienably as- as on 31st December 2013. without an excuse to be dia, one has to move to- proach to technology and this context!). courts effectively for re- remain under trial, the similated into the DNA of Seven years later this sta- heard on an urgent basis wards solutions. A debate virtual hearings so the old, The judges should specify duced pendency. Provisions lockdown did not help this our legal system. The real tistic has worsened to 69%. will also grow leaving in- that may be initiated is obvious and inadequate traffic-light styled periods for proper case assessment situation at all. problem lies in the imbal- The world median rests be- justice in its wake. whether the current le- solutions may give way to for argument by counsel by the prosecutor, dis- Pendency delays further ance between the accused’s tween 30 and 40% placing As I mentioned in “The gal system, mostly bor- effective technology-driven or parties in-person so that charge at the initial stages complicate old and new well-recognised right to India ingloriously at the 16th delay disaster, Part 1”, we rowed and adapted from approaches that could be hearings are predictable and plea-bargaining must civil cases that require even a fair trial and the state- position out of 217 coun- also have a problem on the English Common Law, is game changers if pursued and arguments restricted be automatically pursued more judicial time and at- ments about substantive tries/jurisdictions. In the commercial or civil side. good enough for India, or effectively. These and some to necessary points that at the early stages. tention to unravel the mess justice enunciated by our 2012 case of Imtiyaz Ahmed That disaster only seems does it call for a somewhat of the solutions suggested require oral explanation. It would appear that many caused by delayed adju- Supreme Court in the 70s, v. State of U.P. (2012) 2 SCC less serious because it is not radical overhaul. Alter- by the Delhi High Court Written Submissions also of the above measures can dication. It may be worth 80s and even in the early 688, the Supreme Court a noticeable human-rights natively, does India need in the report call for im- based on a set template not be implemented immedi- mentioning that our courts 90s often justifying unend- observed “Unduly long delay catastrophe. The litiga- something totally fresh, in mediate assessment and exceeding 7 to 10 pages but ately without increasing seem to have adopted what ing opportunities for docu- has the effect of bringing about tion indicators require us the new form of legislation implementation. The solu- supplemented by a docu- the number of judges or may be called a deontologi- ments to be filed (by both blatant violation of the Rule to re-examine the issues preferred by the Govern- tions offered in the report ment containing extracts of expending a much larger cal approach dealing not sides). The much misused of law and adverse impact on and evolve solutions from ment – do we need a new depart from the common case-law must be submit- percentage of GDP on dis- only with the consequences Latin phrase “audi alteram the common man’s access to a long list of possibilities. Code on Justice Delivery? Is refrain (more judges and ted automatically before pute resolution, but there is of their adjudication, but partem” is thrown-in for justice. A person’s access to There are numerous in- there a need for legislation resources) offering better every argument hearing. nothing to signify that such with its conformity to a good measure by courts to justice is a guaranteed funda- stances of Suits not being to achieve newer solutions, practices and procedures. Old measures for pre- investment of resources and highly anthropomorphic indicate that we should al- mental right under the Consti- listed for hearing for over to accommodate for the Clearly India needs more vention of corruption like augmentation of the courts and ideal concept of justice low further opportunities tution and particularly under 15 years in certain courts. march of technology and by way of resources (hu- transfers and rotation of should not be a priority. that assumes the luxury both for hearing, responses Article 21. Denial of the right Colleagues in a certain to achieve targeted reduc- man and financial) to be roasters should be discon- The above steps and many of unlimited time and re- to allegations, rejoinders to undermines public confidence western state who have tion of the pending cases? ploughed into justice de- tinued and replaced with others proposed by the Law sources as if judicial time such responses and in rare in the justice delivery system been in practice for over 20 Alternatively, can we find livery, but we also need to alternative technologi- Commission and the Delhi was purely incidental. Ad- cases something called a and incentivizes people to years have never seen an solutions within our pres- suggest some other new cal approaches involving High Court in the ‘Zero judication may proceed “sur-rejoinder” which is oc- look for short cuts and other original suit filed by them ent system using fast-track and novel approaches as a transparency and moni- Pendency Courts Project’ blind-folded, but it still casionally permitted in re- ways where they feel that jus- reach the stage of trial let procedures, better govern- foundation for discussions toring. Eventually no court must be implemented as should not be blinkered sponse to a rejoinder. Audi tice will be done quicker. In alone its final stage of hear- ment policies for avoid- to arrive at new solutions. should function unless the quickly as possible and out- and unconscious of the sur- alteram partem continues ad the long run, this also weak- ing. Many are unfamiliar ing government-initiated We have discussed some proceedings are recorded side the cliched concept of rounding circumstances nauseam to interfere with ens the justice delivery system with the original side prac- litigation, approaches to solutions with the Learned and the recordings should ‘phased implementation’. as also the consequences fair and speedy civil tri- and poses a threat to the Rule tice except when it comes to rethink corruption and so Judges in the webinar, but be publicly available online We need radical solutions of delay simply because als and more importantly of Law”. Despite all these interim relief – it is assidu- on? they require more detailed for atleast a year. and we need them now. our judges would (eventu- it even interferes with the recognitions of the prob- ously folded in half, tied The Law Commission of consideration and are pres- Session trials should re- The pandemic has wors- ally) like to deliver a perfect accused’s right to a speedy lem and even a decision of with a string and sent off India reports and several ently offered “without prej- sume, and courts must ar- ened the situation, but the judgement. and conclusive judicial the Supreme court regard- to the bowels of the court policy papers, when read udice” simply to enhance range to schedule a trial consequent lessons, advent On the criminal side, our process. Unfortunately, ing inhuman conditions in registry where it may suf- together suggest that we the list of available solu- from start to finish within of virtual hearings and the courts are understandably this right to a fair hearing 1382 Prisons AIR (2016) SC fer termites, rats and other must look for somewhat tions for courts and judges the same month so that evi- new-found comfort of both reluctant to grant bail and has been extended in India 999, the situation seems to destructive forces. It will radical steps and novel ap- going beyond the identified dence is recorded quickly, judges and litigants with release a murder, terror or even to cover circumstanc- have only worsened as far of course suddenly emerge proaches to achieve even resources requirement: witnesses are not incon- online solutions and tech- sexual offender back into es arising from a party or as pendency is concerned onto the active cause list for reasonable targets for pen- All High Courts and Dis- venienced and the judges nology should be exploited. civilized society where s/ lawyer’s bona fide mistakes underscoring the need for trial after a decade (some- dency to reduce rather than trict Courts must have live- deliver their judgements Amir Singh Pasrich is Manag- he may pose a threat even - the Courts generously serious reform. times even two decades) for it to grow at a healthy streaming arrangements expeditiously as mandated ing Partner of I.L.A. Pasrich though an initial apprais- permit amendment of From my 28 years of prac- and an intrepid judge un- rate exceeding our current for parties and the public to by the Supreme Court in & Company, Advocates. He al of basic evidence can pleadings, supplementary tice, I would opine that our daunted by the state of the GDP growth. Numerous observe the court’s dispen- the 2001 matter of Anil Rai is Co-chair of the India Work- hardly warrant a finding affidavits, re-opening of a judiciary is full of generous records will ask the party/ documents in the public sation of justice and to par- v. State of Bihar. ing Group of the International of guilt, leave alone one lost right to cross-examine, and accommodating judges ies who managed to no- domain identify the prob- ticipate virtually if needed. Summons and other court Bar Association (IBA) and beyond reasonable doubt. setting aside of ex parte or- (and I do mean this to be tice its existence whether lem and commentators Proceedings should be communications may be is- is a member of the IBA’s LPD From the prisoner’s point- ders or decrees when the true without any underly- s/he or they still want to have suggested dozens of recorded at the option and sued by e-mail, WhatsApp Council, he is also Chairman of-view, an arrest can be a party or his lawyer simply ing message or sarcasm). pursue the matter (if he possible solutions. Sadly, cost of the parties. Once the or other digital media. Liti- of the Law & Justice Com- horrid tragedy, one com- failed to show-up subject to The judges have been is the plaintiff) or, if he is this process of identifica- system is set up, it should gants who ignore the sum- mittee of the PHD Chamber of pounded by poverty if the nominal costs. Appeals are trained to demonstrate pa- the Defendant whether he tion has not led to serious enable judges to offer par- mons then may do so at Commerce and Industry. The accused happens to lack filed long after the statu- tience by their own years has the evidence ready to effective action by the ju- ties an option to participate their own peril. Author acknowledges research the means to engage a de- tory time-limit has expired of practice and by previous pursue a proper defence. diciary or the government. virtually or in person and Government officers inputs and ideas from Amit cent lawyer to get released and this is also permitted generations of the judicial In both cases, the result is Even an annual reduc- even for evidence to be re- should be encouraged to Ranjan Singh & Kshitij Pali- on bail. Worse still, com- (especially for a govern- fraternity to allow for hu- usually unfair to the con- tion of 10% would suggest corded online. follow standard procedures wal, Advocates. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 14 world new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

u.s. elections Long way to go for Biden as Trump set to get personal in debates President Trump has already lined up his Republican administrators to ‘dig out’ scams involving VP Biden and his son, Hunter Biden.

for his political career” will political booster he was in have made inroads into Re- poor handling of coronavi- these polls saying, while the North Carolina, where polls as how he withstands three leave nothing in the way to need of as it created news, publicans strongholds; he rus. Americans continue to five key states hold the key show the race getting closer. 90-minute battles against his march to the occupation got some media limelight may have got nearly 500 have positive views of the to the political fate of the two Biden may be leading an opponent known for of White House from Janu- and on top of it, women of security advisers and many nation’s economy, according Presidential candidates, but still in polls, but even the brutal personal attacks. ary 2021. both Indian diaspora and from the Republican camp, to a new Pew Research Cen- it is also that every day, the US media and poll predic- From Tuesday, as Presi- maneesh pandeya President Trump is set to Afro-American commu- including Cindy McCain, ter survey. gap between the two leaders tors do not guarantee him dent Trump, who has been make his tone stronger, per- nity pledged generous sup- widow of Arizona Sena- A majority of the public is narrowing and making it a lock on the White House often painted by the left- ith sonal and may dig up some port to his campaign. But it tor John McCain and Colin (55%) says that national a tight finish. A new Yahoo for strong reasons, the liberal US media as “po- “family scams” against his seems that we are looking at Powell endorsing his elec- economic conditions are News/YouGov poll finds Democratic presidential litically notorious”, will W Democratic Presidential the elections more from the tion, but that also cannot excellent or good. This has Biden leading by 5 points nominee should not for- be in his true colours and just about 36 nominee and former Vice perspective of India, Kamala hide Trump’s surge among changed little since January, nationally, down from a get. First, Trump’s base of Biden needs to be aware of days to go for President, Joe Biden. Re- Harris and Indian American the Latino and Black voters, but spells good signals for 10-point margin only two support—Whites without the central fact that Presi- the “biggest cent media reports suggest vote bank, which is not go- raising political worries for Trump’s poll report card. weeks ago. That’s obviously college degrees—is more dent Trump, love him or battle of the ballot” and per- that President Trump has ing to decide the final results the Biden campaign. No one The survey by Pew Research very good news for Trump, energized and committed hate him, has hogged more haps the only news that has already lined up his Repub- of this election. The Indian can also deny the fact that Center, conducted on 10-15 although we’ll need to see a to voting this year than key limelight and press than gripped the global media lican administrators to “dig diaspora vote bank, current- Trump has actually split the July among 1,502 adults, few more of these before we Democratic constituencies. any other US President in after the coronavirus pan- out” scams involving VP ly in the limelight for influ- Indian American vote bank also finds that Americans call it a trend. Biden leads Second, Latinos, who are recent times and also his demic, I am on a “virtual Biden and his son, Hunter encing the US elections, and and he himself has got a 12% are generally upbeat about by 7 points nationally. But key to the outcome in sev- tumultuous presidency has tour” of the US presiden- Biden. US media this week surely it will, is just 1.8 mil- popularity jump among the their personal finances: 55% it is also a fact that in 2016, eral crucial states—Arizona triggered strong emotions tial elections in my column had reported about Hunter lion out of the over 200 mil- diaspora voters in 2020. now characterise their per- even 12 hours before the fi- and Florida, for example— among both supporters and today to take you through Biden’s “past involvement lion registered voters in the According to the latest In- sonal financial situation as nal ballot, Trump was trail- have shown less support for opponents. Political scien- what’s simmering in the in a Ukrainian gas company US. And if going by what po- dian American voter sur- excellent or good. Currently, ing in national polls against Biden. There will be more tists in the US are forecast- battleground states. Poll rat- during President Obama’s litical scientists are predict- vey, Trump commands 28% 79% of Republicans and Re- Hillary Clinton and he won absentee voters this time, ing that he’s surely going to ings are changing, creating regime”, in a way taking a ing it to be the “most diverse diaspora support, a double publican leaners rate the na- the states where the polls something similar to Indian stir “a voter turnout storm more buzz and speculation direct aim at Joe Biden’s ten- and highest voter turnout digit jump from 16% in 2016. tional economy as excellent showed him trailing behind polling where strong cadre of a century in 2020”. among the political pundits, ure as a Vice President then. election”, nearly 157 million But most important, and or good, with 34% saying it her. vote have been crucial for And if he manages to get who are holding their final This may be just the begin- are expected to vote in 2020, what Biden and all should is excellent. Interestingly, new surveys Prime Minister Narendra the vaccine before the 3 prediction till the last as the ning as how the US presi- a high jump over nearly 137 not ignore, that not only And to his benefit, Biden show Biden running strong Modi’s thumping mandate. November elections, highly battle is set to go to the wires dential elections are going million in 2016. So we can’t has Trump played the “na- is also being projected in the in states Trump won eas- Will that hold true for his unlikely though, but already and to the last ballot. It’s get- to be more “personal” from say at the moment as who tionalism” card well since media as “working from the ily in 2016, which is alarm- friend President Trump? reported in US media about ting intense, gripping and here. To me, Biden has sure- really caused this prob- the conventions, but he has basement and not letting ing news for Republicans. US media and analysts say Trump making such claims, fierce, probably threatening ly gained more dollars in his able large voter swelling for also narrowed his gap with Kamala Harris out in open But the bottom line is that that the narrowing gap it would be the “booster in- to get abusive after the first campaign funding and also 2020, Trump or Biden. But Biden and his stimulus too often, including in the while Biden is competitive between the two and the jection” for Trump and his scheduled debate on 29 Sep- a strong Indian-American a few things are clearly vis- package is showing off right press”. in traditionally red states, “undecided voters” are not campaign, ensuring his re- tember in Cleveland. Many support, both in terms of ible. Biden and his campaign signals for the Republicans. The game of ratings and like Texas and Georgia, and favourable signs for the entry to the White House. have already started to pre- when he nominated Indian may have earned more in He’s scored in media polls the unending surveys make in states Trump won easily Democrats’ poll prospects. Really a perfect time for dict that President Donald origin California Senator dollars in his election funds over economic recovery the contest intense, yet mak- in 2016, such as Iowa and And not to forget, the de- watching it as an external Trump, who has taken his Kamala Harris as his run- than what Mr Trump has and has overshadowed his ing it confusing for the vot- Ohio. Trump badly needs bates will test Biden against from the fence without tak- re-election as “the battle ning mate. Biden got the been able to amass; he may strong criticism over the ers. US media reports cite to win Florida, Arizona and Trump in open public eye ing sides.

alarm outside politics blow to france Lebanon’s Global Covid-19 death toll prime could hit 2 million before minister designate vaccine in wide use, WHO says steps GENEVA/ZURICH: The the woods anywhere, we ing talks with China about ing the total to 159 partici- global death toll from Co- are not out of the woods in its possible involvement pants. Some 34 are still de- down vid-19 could double to 2 Africa,” said Ryan. in the COVAX financing ciding. million before a success- He said young people scheme designed to guar- Talks with China also BEIRUT: Lebanon’s ful vaccine is widely used should not be blamed for antee fast and equitable include discussion of the prime minister- and could be even higher a recent increase in infec- access globally to Covid-19 world’s second-largest designate quit on without concerted action to tions despite growing con- vaccines, a week after the economy potentially sup- Saturday after trying curb the pandemic, an offi- cerns that they are driving deadline for committing plying vaccines to the for almost a month to cial at the World Health Or- its spread after restrictions passed. scheme, he said. line up a non-partisan ganization said on Friday. and lockdowns were eased “We’re in discussions The U.N. agency pub- cabinet, dealing a blow “Unless we do it all, (2 around the world. with China about the role lished on Friday draft cri- to a French bid aimed million deaths) ... is not “I really hope we don’t they may play as we go for- teria for the assessment of at rallying sectarian only imaginable, but sadly get into finger wagging: it’s ward,” said Bruce Aylward, emergency use of Covid-19 leaders to tackle the very likely,” Mike Ryan, all because of the youth,” WHO senior adviser and vaccines to help guide worst crisis since the head of the U.N. agency’s said Ryan. “The last thing head of the ACT-Acceler- drugmakers as vaccine tri- nation’s 1975-1990 civil emergencies program, told a young person needs is ator program to back vac- als reach advanced stages, war. Mustapha Adib, a briefing on Friday. The an old person pontificating cines, treatments and diag- said WHO assistant direc- former ambassador number of deaths about and wagging the finger.” nostics against Covid-19. tor-general, Mariangela to Berlin, was picked nine months since the nov- Rather, indoor gatherings He confirmed that Tai- Simao. The document will on Aug. 31 to form a el coronavirus was discov- of people of all ages were wan has signed up to the be available for public com- cabinet after President Japanese designer Takahiro Shibata wears a protective mask that looks like a steaming bowl of ramen noodle soup while posing for a photo at his house, following the Covid-19) outbreak in Yokohama, Japan, on Wednesday. Reuters ered in China is nearing 1 driving the epidemic, he scheme, even though it is ment until 8 Oct., she said. Emmanuel Macron’s million. “We are not out of said. The WHO is continu- not a WHO member, bring- REUTERS intervention secured a consensus on naming COBR meeting him in a country where power is shared out between Muslims and Christians. Tory coronavirus emergency powers meet rebels Under the French roadmap, the new for Sadiq Khan, Mayor of prohibit events and restrict imposed. Steve Baker MP has son was Foreign Secretary The Independent and The appreciation might alienate government would antonia filmer london London. If this is the case access to ports/offices/retail/ attached a separate amend- he went unaccompanied to Evening Standard could not South Asian countries and take swift steps to Conservative lack of engage- schools/leisure, issue urgent ment to omit regulations a party at Russian Evgeny have been more wrong, both the US. Another alienating tackle corruption and Go to work, work at home, ment and arrogant pomposity warrants that could intercept about prosecutions against Lebedev’s castello in Tuscany, publications and a good num- event as far as India is con- implement reforms now go to work, now work with other leaders will likely communications, and store potentially infectious people. the peerage to a Russian me- ber of Johnsons new peers are cerned was the launch of needed to trigger at home, eat out to help out be leveraged by the Scottish bio-metric data when neces- Now it is up to Sir Lindsay dia tycoon- the same Evgeny continuously finding with the conservative friends of billions of dollars of but only in groups of six and National Party and Labour sary for national security, as Hoyle, the Speaker to decide Lebedev, recent rumours cir- fault with the government. Kashmir group, consisting international aid to fix leave pubs/restaurants by communities. reported last week and even whether to allow the Brady culating of a romantic liaison China sceptics in UK were of several Conservative MPs an economy that has 10pm or risk up to a £10,000 The Coronavirus emergen- insist on identity cards for motion or just to allow a bi- with a Russian violinist, ten- amazed to see Alok Shar- whose purpose is to gain sup- been crushed by a fine, confused, so is the Brit- cy powers that the govern- everyone. All this with no nary vote on the emergency nis games bought by a Rus- ma, the Secretary of State port for self-determination mountain of debt. ish public. Folks have to stay ment introduced in March oversight, at the time demo- powers. Either way the pres- sian lady and British Citizen in charge of COP26 tweet for Kashmir. Conservative Lebanon faced a alert to keep up with the latest are due back in parliament for cratically minded backbench- sure is on the government to who donated huge sums to appreciation to Xi Jinping Campaign Headquarters further knock when a restrictions now that policy a vote by MPs, to prolong or ers added an amendment be- involve MPs. the Tory party and a recent about China reaching car- have confirmed to The Sunday huge explosion on Aug. seems to be made up on the reject their existence. These fore the Bill was passed that The Prime Minister’s Rus- Panorama programme about bon neutrality by 2060; Guardian this is not a group 4 at Beirut port ruined hoof. temporary powers gave the afforded them a review every sian headline nightmares money laundering in Lon- Sharma is also Secretary of organised by The Conserva- a swathe of the capital. With Covid infections ris- government unusual au- six months. Graham Brady, are relentless, first the de- don. So many of the so-called State for Business, Energy tive Party. Adib, announced he ing a COBR meeting was thority to instruct police, Chair of the 1922 Committee, layed then redacted Russian scandals are Russian but who and Industrial Strategy. As The passing of the Internal was stepping down but called, it is reported that immigration officials and has rustled together Tories Report, then the Russian knows if this convenient for this was on the same day Market Bill points to a Brexit said Lebanon must not Nicola Sturgeon, First Min- public health departments who would prefer a debate on superyacht moored off the anyone. The peerage com- as the US were reporting deal in process with the EU abandon the French ister of Scotland, had not met to quarantine anyone, in- any new restrictions or mea- coast of Scotland where he mentators who claimed that about China’s Tibetan la- which will be presented as a plan or squander Johnson since the month of cluding with help from the sures of national importance was on a family holiday, old the Lebedev peerage would bour camps, there were tremendous victory over the Macron’s goodwill. May. This is also reported army. The government can being introduced rather than reports of when Boris John- result in good press from suggestions that Sharma’s technocratic era. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 new delhi world 15 www.sundayguardianlive.com

IN EU Czech out this pocket of resistance against China In the eyes of many Czechs, as Chinese investment has increased, so has corruption. The new pro-China direction has sparked a backlash from Czech opposition, as well as large sections of Czech society.

mediate post-war period, ward expansion of the bloc. charges. misusing subsidies for his led the charge. Last year he eting up its rhetoric against John Dobson London the population favoured the Significantly, with a foreign For many Czechs, closer private businesses, accusa- ended Prague’s “sister-city” Beijing’s heavy-handed ap- Communist Party, largely policy rooted in liberal val- relations with Beijing sym- tions which he denies. Babis, relationship with Beijing proach to the economy and he because of their revulsion ues, he never formally met bolise the Czech Republic’s a strong supporter of China, and agreed a new one with human rights, with many of the Nazis, and the com- a senior Chinese official, drift away from democracy has also been dogged by re- Taipei. Cutting off Beijing officials describing what T munists duly gained 38% of instead forming a close re- and liberalism at home, val- ports that he worked as an and linking Prague with the they once saw hopefully as Czech the vote in the 1946 elections. lationship with the Dalai ues which are in the DNA agent for the Czechoslova- capital of Taiwan did little to a partnership now more as Republic The inevitable then hap- Lama. of older residents, values kian secret police during the improve Hrib’s relationship a rivalry. Relations between doesn’t fig- pened, carefully contrived This values-led foreign pol- which were crushed during Soviet period. with Xi Jingping. Twisting Europe and China became ure highly in most people’s by Joseph Stalin: a coup icy continued under Havel’s the Nazi and Soviet years Anti-Beijing sentiment is the knife, Hrib even flew the frosty in June after a long- consciousness; but then why d’état. For the next 41 years, successor, Vaclav Klaus, but of occupation. The largest high among Czechs, who Tibetan flag over Prague’s delayed leaders’ summit should it? After all, it’s only a Czechoslovakia was a com- was upended in 2013 when street demonstrations since hold the fourth-worst opin- City Hall last year to mark ended with no joint com- tiny, hilly Central European munist state, controlled by Milos Zeman was elected 1989 took place last year, ion of China (57% against, the anniversary of a failed muniqué. For years, much country with a population Moscow and part of the Sovi- President and began form- chiefly against what dem- 27% for) among Europeans, Tibetan uprising. On cue, as the US did in the past, less than Delhi. But some- et Empire, before returning ing closer ties with Russia onstrators saw as Zeman’s according to a Pew Research during his visit last month, the EU has sought to nudge thing really interesting is to a liberal democracy after and China. Zeman defended autocratic instincts, his US Secretary of State Mike China to make reforms in going on there, which should the fall of the Soviet Union. Russia’s 2014 annexation Zdenek Hrib, the mayor of illiberal rhetoric and sup- Pompeo commended Hrib how it trades and does busi- be of concern to Beijing. Finally, because of the dif- of Crimea, and the follow- Prague, ended Prague’s port of China. Just as many saying that he has “contin- ness, but has been met with “sister-city” relationship To understand why and ferent Czech and Slovak na- ing year he announced that with Beijing and agreed a Czechs during the Cold War ued President Havel’s good deaf ears. Now, EU officials what is happening, a little tionalist aspirations, in 1993 the Czech Republic would new one with Taipei. Hrib mythologised their First work in supporting Tibet”. openly talk of China as a even flew the Tibetan flag history is necessary. So bear Czechoslovakia peacefully be “China’s gateway into over Prague’s City Hall last Republic as a democratic Although Chinese foreign rival, which has to make with me. split into two independent Europe”. He even mocked year to mark the anniversary and progressive golden age, direct investment in the changes or face restrictions Czechoslovakia came into countries: the Czech Repub- Havel’s foreign policy as of a failed Tibetan uprising. many today mythologise Czech Republic is modest from Beijing’s biggest trad- existence only after the First lic and Slovakia. “dalailamism”, calling it “just the post-communist 1990s, by comparison with the rest ing partner. World War, following the The famed anti-communist a trend”. Zeman proposed Prague. Fans appreciated the symbolised by Havel, for the Centre survey conducted of the EU, with a cumulative There’s an old English say- collapse of the Austro-Hun- dissident, Vaclav Havel, be- developing a strong rela- money Ye poured into the same reason. last year (India recorded value of about 1bn euros be- ing, “from little acorns, oak garian Empire. The country came the Czech Republic’s tionship with China which club, but knowing that their Few Czech politicians 46% against and 23% for). tween 2000 and 2019, the trees grow”. Could the Czech was the only democracy in first President and returned he claimed “should not be beloved team was in hawk to personify the country’s In the eyes of many Czechs, growing anti-Chinese sen- Republic’s anti-Chinese Central Europe in the inter- the country to liberalism restricted just because of the Chinese, the purchase in- problems with corruption as Chinese investment has timent will be of concern to “acorn” grow into a Euro- war period, during which and democracy after more human rights issues”! cited more hatred than grati- and links with China more increased, so has corruption. Beijing. In other countries, pean “oak tree”? After all, its population enjoyed free- than 50 years of Nazi and In 2017, President Zeman tude. There was little sorrow than Prime Minister Andrej The new pro-China direc- such as Italy and Greece, as Pompeo said in Prague dom until Nazi Germany Communist domination. named the Chinese tycoon or grief when Jianming, who Babis, one of the country’s tion has sparked a backlash which have been seduced last month “China’s world took control in 1938. It then His foreign policy looked to Ye Jianming as a personal sat atop a business empire richest men. Ironically, he from Czech opposition par- by vast amounts of Chinese dominance is not inevitable. disappeared, becoming the the West, a symbolic “return advisor. Ye’s firm, CEFC worth more than $44bn and led his populist party to vic- ties, as well as large sections cash, murmurings against We are the authors of our Protectorate of Bohemia to Europe”. Under Havel, China Energy, had recently was known as a “Belt and tory in the last general elec- of Czech society who are de- a “Chinese takeover” are own fate.” and Moravia, before reap- the Czech Republic joined embarked on a spending Road” billionaire, suddenly tion, in 2017, by campaign- manding a return to Havel’s more discreet. However, af- John Dobson is a former Brit- pearing again in 1945 with NATO in 1999 and the EU spree in the country, which disappeared in 2018. He is ing on an anti-corruption values-based foreign policy. ter years of courting closer ish diplomat and worked in UK the arrival of Soviet and five years later, playing a key included the purchase of the now believed to be sitting in platform while under in- The mayor of the capital city, economic ties with China, Prime Minister John Major’s American troops. In the im- role in the subsequent east- historic football team, Slavia a Chinese jail on corruption vestigation by the EU for Prague, Zdenek Hrib has the EU appears to be ratch- office between 1995 and 1998.

student-friendly KIIT IS A REAL hub University with a vision: KIIT infuses humanity, of excellence compassion in students to achieve their potential KIIT is an all-rounder, offering a wide range of academic programmes as well as fostering holistic development of students.

from the public and private sector Application and Rural Manage- OUR CORRESPONDENT Bhubaneswar into world-class teaching and re- ment—is equally good. search institutions. Beyond placements, many stu- he Kalinga Institute of In- Despite being a very young insti- dents go ahead to set up their dustrial Technology (KIIT), tution—23 years as an institute and own enterprise and start-up with Ta Deemed to be University 16 years as a university—KIIT has support from KIIT-Technology in Bhubaneswar, is one-of-its-kind been achieving impressive positions Business Incubator, a DST rec- multifaceted university with diverse in various benchmark national ognised centre, which provides activities carefully designed to help and global university rankings. handholding support to budding students achieve their best poten- Recently, it was ranked 1st among entrepreneurs. KIIT, which has Students working in a laboratory inside the KIIT campus. tial. Anchored on the principles of self-financing institutions of India academic tie-ups with 195 reput- humanity and compassion, KIIT in the Atal Ranking of Institutions ed global institutes, also supports • As a university with a vision, KIIT promotes sports and is an all-rounder not only for of- on Innovation Achievements (- about 500 students every year to games in a big way among students. It is proud to produce fering a wide range of academic IA) 2020, published by the Ministry go for higher studies abroad. Some an Olympian and several other athletes who have won programmes, but also for fostering of Education, Government of India. An aerial view of the sprawling KIIT Campus at Bhubaneswar. other students have found success medals for the country in international sports meets like the holistic development of students It is ranked 24th among Indian uni- in the national level recruitment ex- Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and World Univer- and its great social impact. Expect- versities by the National Institu- ams conducted by the UPSC, UGC sity Games. Both India’s fastest woman, Dutee Chand, edly, the university has been pro- tional Ranking Framework (NIRF), Despite being a very young institution—23 years and other bodies. KIIT is proud to who is an Arjuna Awardee, and the fastest man, Amiya ducing high achievers in myriad Ministry of Education, Government produce IAS, IPS and IES officers. Mallick, are KIIT students. It has the most elaborate sports fields, including Olympians, IAS of India. KIIT has also been achiev- as an institute and 16 years as a university—KIIT KIIT proactively nurtures stu- infrastructure located at a single place in the country. This and IPS officers and successful en- ing an impressive position in inter- has been achieving impressive positions in various dents’ creativity and has established includes a world-class multi-sport stadium and 16 world- trepreneurs, in addition to bright national university rankings like Student Research Cell for innova- class sports complex in different campuses. Recently, KIIT students who get coveted jobs in the QS and Times Higher Educa- benchmark national and global university rankings. tive research. It encourages stu- hosted the 1st Khelo India University Games, the biggest campus placements. tion (THE). dents and provides financial sup- sports extravaganza in the country. KIIT is one of the most student- The world has fast transitioned port to write and present research • KIIT is the world’s only self-financing university to have a friendly campuses in the country. to a knowledge society, where mere papers in academic seminars, really wide spectrum of social outreach activities. It is run- Despite 30,000 students, who come possession of an academic degree workshops and conferences. Stu- ning the world’s biggest fully-free fully-residential institute from all parts of India and 53 coun- does not guarantee success. KIIT its, Projects and Dissertations, Use drive of the University attracts top dents of KIIT have the distinction exclusively for tribal children—the Kalinga Institute of So- tries, expansive campus and varied has kept pace with the change, of Reverse Teaching Methods, etc. multinationals and reputed na- of being appreciated at the national cial Sciences (KISS). KISS provides holistic education from facilities, its student community is adapting its curriculum and peda- Students get unmatched exposure tional companies. KIIT is placing and international forum for their KG to PG, food, accommodation, health care, and all basic highly satisfied and disciplined as gogy to ensure that students achieve by attending and interacting with nearly 3,000 students every year research projects. Numerous re- necessities of life to 60,000 tribal children (30,000 existing the entire system and structure of the desired level of knowledge, skill eminent academicians, legal lumi- in technology streams. This year search papers authored by students students, 20,000 well-placed alumni and 10,000 students KIIT is student-centric. This has and attitude specific to a particular naries, corporate leaders, policy- about 1,200 students (40%) have have been published in reputed na- in its various satellite centres). KIIT has transformed a also enabled the students to develop area and domain. With 200 aca- makers and scientists, who come to bagged job offers with a high salary tional and international journals. remote village (Kalarabank) in Odisha as a “Smart Village” to their best potential and achieve demic programmes spanning en- attend numerous academic confer- package ranging from Rs 6.5 lakh to KIIT has implemented a highly having all modern amenities of a city, while the Panchayat big. gineering, medicine, management, ences, seminars and workshops or- Rs 30 lakh. This is comparable to effective mentoring programme, (Manpur) has been developed as a Model Panchayat. KIIT was founded by eminent biotechnology, law and more offered ganized around the year. So far, 20 any other national institute in the which looks after the academic as Among community outreach projects, KIIT is facilitating educationist and social activist Prof. from 28 constituent Schools, KIIT Nobel Laureates have visited KIIT country. The remaining students well as social and emotional de- developmental work in one aspirational district of Odisha. Achyuta Samanta in 1992 -93 as a Deemed to be University has be- and delivered talks under Nobel are also placed in good national velopment of students. Mentors The University has also contributed immensely to the field modest vocational training insti- come a model for the integration of Lecture Series and KIIT Knowledge international companies with pay provide emotional and academic of art, literature, culture, film, media and spiritualism. tute. It took shape as an institute of knowledge. Students have an op- Tree, which are unique initiatives packages ranging from Rs 6.5 lakh support, guidance, motivation, pose • After the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, KIIT higher learning in 1997, considered portunity to choose their electives to provide exposure to students. to Rs 4.5 lakh. Campus placement themselves as ideal role models for responded swiftly. Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, as the base year, and was declared from a wide range of choices. KIIT The impact of these academic in- in other streams—Management, the mentees and also help them in the medical wing of KIIT, set up India’s first standalone a deemed to be university in 2004. has implemented student-centered novations is reflected by the suc- Biotechnology, Law, Computer their career growth. Covid-19 hospital with the support of the Government of Today, it has become one of the pedagogy, including Project-based cess of KIIT students in the cam- More than 25 vibrant student Odisha. KIIT also set up three special Covid-19 hospitals, most sought after universities of Learning. This innovative approach pus placement. The University has societies, functioning from KIIT one each in Kandhamal, Balangir and Mayurbhanj dis- the country known for its world- involves an optimum combination a remarkable campus placement Student Activity Centre, catalyze tricts of Odisha. KIIT reached out to groups facing hardship class academics. The “Institution of classroom lecture and innovative record since its inception. There the all-round development of stu- due to the extended lockdown. The intervention includes of Eminence” (IoE) recognition teaching pedagogy such as Live In- has been a significant improvement dents. The societies, which deal distribution of food materials and other essentials to over from the Government of India has dustry Projects, Simulation Process, every year in various parameters with areas ranging from litera- 3 lakh pandemic-hit people. KIIT has decided to provide further bolstered the “brand KIIT”. Role Play, Case Study Presentations, such as the salary package, the ture, film-making and social work free education to children of the Covid-deceased in Odi- IoE is an ambitious scheme of the Seminars, Business Exercises, number and quality of companies, to robotics, contribute to the holistic sha. The facility will be available for two academic years: Government of India that seeks to Group Discussions, Field Activities, etc. Due to its academic excellence growth of students in academics as 2020-21 and 2021-22. develop 10 select universities each Research Activities, Industrial Vis- and brand value, the recruitment A basketball court at KIIT University. well as creativity. the sunday guardian 27 september-03 october 16 the big story new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

NEED FOR REFORM Stock market mayhem key weapon of anti-Modi alliance the skills of ficials have to be identified (c) diversion of client funds The widespread dissemina- through fraud vest with the a Houdini for Ra- continuously and removed and securities for cover- tion of the PC Network with- clearing corporation, which hul Gandhi as in- from responsibility rather ing losses incurred in in the financial bureaucracy is the central counter party. heritor of the UPA than continue to do their trading by brokers. This (including some regulatory Of course, exchanges and legacy to escape the charge dirty work undisturbed. common and fraudulent agencies) has led to a sense the clearing corporation of corruption that he flings Several within the IAS, IFS, practice results in Ponzi of invincibility amongst will resist such a move in with alacrity against Modi. IRS, IPS and other services schemes that eventually stockbrokers favoured by favour of innocent investors. The results of the 2019 Lok entered through the an- go bust at huge cost to the network. These get used Once Prime Minister Modi Sabha elections were de- cient Chinese system of a innocent investors who in financial transactions goes ahead with a necessary cided from the moment Ra- single set of examinations operate on the basis that which are not always ethi- reform of the stock market, hul Gandhi embraced the are motivated by a genuine regulatory and monitor- cal or even lawful, of course the effect will be to force suggestion made by seniors desire to work for a better ing agencies are watch- with a blind eye turned to- the exchanges to take up within his party that he be country, and such reforms ful rather than sleeping wards them by somnolent inspections properly rather the party’s 2019 candidate would be welcomed by the at the wheel; regulators. Such brokers are than simply for show. It will for the Prime Ministership honest majority of officials. (d) utilisation of client funds confident that the exchange act as a disincentive to ex- of India. The decision by him Indeed, several officials and securities for propri- & clearing corporation changes to turn a Nelson’s to enter the PM sweepstakes have even before retirement etary trading by broker; (which would have to bail eye to frauds being commit- converted the 2019 electoral migrated from the adminis- (e) diversion of client funds them out in case of defaults) ted by unscrupulous bro- contest into a choice between trative services to the private for other business such has a near perfect record kers and clearing members Rahul Gandhi and Naren- sector, and are doing very as real estate or lending of not discovering frauds who are giving exchanges dra Modi as PM. The con- well there. Only a minority Representative photo: The BSE to cronies. until the last paisa has been in India a bad name by re- sequence was that the BJP within the administrative the keystone of the economic lition is the stock market. It to be made by North Block to While SEBI sleeps and the squeezed out of the unwary taining the practices they tally crossed 300 Lok Sabha services have succumbed to arch. By word of mouth and is here that “termites” have bring to account the entities EOWs chase after diversions, investor and diverted to the perfected during the UPA seats in that poll, while the the lure of lucre and thereby by other means, capsules of been at work undisturbed by responsible for the cheating such misuse of the market clearing corporation. The re- era. Of course, the clear- Congress Party strength in betrayed the trust of the misinformation are being multiple regulatory agencies. of investors. These cabals mechanism takes place dai- cord will show that this has ing corporation would be the Lok Sabha fell in an un- people, but the harm done disseminated about Prime Even before Covid-19 was include the “PC Network”, ly in a country where even happened in a miscellany entitled to recover its dues precedented manner. There by such corrupt officials is Minister Modi that have released upon the world in who lead in their predatory something as major as the of cases, many involving a through the processes of must be glee within the NDA often much more than the been expertly compiled to January 2020 by the WHO behaviour. These also in- co-location imbroglio has particular exchange that in- law. What is needed is to that neither Sonia Gandhi good done by officials who discredit him in the eyes of failing to warn countries in clude certain stock exchang- been swept under the carpet spected such trades only af- avoid the protracted litiga- nor her designated succes- belong to the honest major- those who have long sup- time to block visitors from es, depositories, clearing cor- as the matter involves an ex- ter the clearing corporation tion that has become a com- sor Rahul seems to be in any ity within the administrative ported him. The strength of Hubei, there has been a suc- porations and professional change that has long been fa- had received and used the monplace, with cases lin- hurry to surrender control services. This is especially the NDA government that cession of what agencies clearing members. Ending voured by elements in North money that investors were gering on while defrauded of the Congress Party to any the case when the political has been in power since have identified as market the somnolence of regula- Block. Litigation does get re- persuaded to hand over investors suffer helplessly. of the capable non-family interface becomes a force 2014 is that PM Modi is manipulations that have tors and monitors such as sorted to by those who have in good faith. The process Many simply give up, as individuals present in an multiplier for corruption seen by millions as the pro- in their reckoning caused the Economic Offences been affected by such frauds. ends with the clearing cor- they lack the money needed organisation that still has and its effects, as has been tector of India from chaos immense financial harm to Wing in different states and However, such processes poration walking away with to hire the expensive law- support within elements of repeatedly witnessed in In- and the PM who can rescue investors. Entities needing SEBI needs urgent attention take years if not decades to the money and securities of yers needed for challenging the public. Such backing is dia to the detriment of the India from the misery of low forensic examination for by Prime Minister Narendra conclude, and are therefore investors who run after a the pricey advocates hired based on sentiment rather country. Corrupt officials growth rates. Unfortunately, their practices are listed by Modi and Finance Minister hardly a disincentive. As broker only to discover that by the other side. Stock than on more tangible fac- form a network that protects thus far standard police honest officials in monitor- . Inter- for the police, their lack of he has closed shop. The spe- market scams wiped out the tors, but sentiment and emo- each other, so that account- methods have been used ing and regulatory agencies national investor confidence knowledge of the market cific exchange that members urban Lok Sabha seats held tion have long been drivers ability for past misdeeds against the tactics used by as including BMA Wealth in stock markets in India is gets added to the propensity of the PC Network normally by the Congress regime of political choices in India. has almost entirely been predators, such as the filing Advisors, Karvy Stockbrok- in danger of ebbing away of corrupt elements to look utilise will then declare the under Narasimha Rao and Although this has yet to eliminated from a system of multiple FIRs and other ing, India Nivesh Securities, as a consequence of market the other way. This is once broker to be a defaulter, so the same happened to the happen, there is anxiety in that prides itself on being methods relying on state Allied Financial Services, V manipulators functioning “goodwill” gets distributed that no further arbitration is BJP government headed by Beijing as well as among inbred and resistant to out- power. Most such actions Rise Securities, Anugrah with the help of accomplices to corrupt officers and offi- possible under the by-laws. A.B. Vajpayee. The effort those opposed to Modi that side ideas and influence. In become an exercise in futil- Stockbroking and Modex in levels of authority. Confi- cials by brokers who gladly The exchange and clearing is to ensure a similar situ- he may soon take advantage particular, any suggestion ity. An example is the man- Securities. Such entities dence in the integrity of mar- hand over a small share of corporation gobbles up the ation of political fallout in of the geopolitical opportu- which reduces the grip of ner in which Vijay Mallya may deny that anything kets is essential if genuine in- the moneys they have made fruits of the stolen property India, once again involving nities created by the anti- the administration from the is still living in comfort in other than “routine er- vestors rather than vulture at the expense of the inves- of the investor. The exist- an unscrupulous section China mood in the wake of colonial-era levels it still en- the UK after officials in In- rors” have been made and funds and arbitrageurs with tor. Small wonder that even ence of such trades, which of brokers together with Wuhan being the epicentre joys is thrown away without dia turned down his public that not wilful actions but insider accomplices are to be efforts at accountability were given a boost during lax oversight by regulators. of the pandemic. The gov- a second look. Central offi- offer to repay the princi- “market changes” were the motivated to invest substan- result in cases that drag on the Manmohan Singh years, The present laws, regula- ernment has the strength cials with a vested interest pal and interest he owes to culprit in the destruction of tially in the Indian market. for years with no result and is among the reasons why tions and administrative to hold a Special Session of in retaining discretionary the public banking system. investor value. What is im- SEBI seems clueless about which are initiated by charge genuine investors are wary practices have not kept pace Parliament to put through powers well beyond what Nirav Modi and his high- possible to deny are losses what is taking place, and as sheets that are so riddled of Indian markets, even the with the way markets have measures designed to push is desirable in the interests priced lawyers are still smil- amounting to thousands of for the EOWs, the less said with inconsistencies and few unaffected by practices evolved and the newer ways through fiscal and monetary of public policy seek to con- ing even as the exchequer crores of rupees suffered by the better. Police Constable inaccuracies that they get which would ensure hefty of cheating the investor. This policy that frees itself of the stantly expand such powers bleeds as a consequence of Indian investors through (PC) methods can never dismissed in court. It was fines and possible jail time is the reason why cleansing Milton Friedman nostrums at the national level, while the manner in which banks their trust in entities indulg- succeed in thwarting the during the UPA period that in the US but which escape and making transparent that are designed to keep the their like-minded colleagues have been drained of funds ing in questionable activity sophisticated frauds and such issues multiplied, with with either no or negligi- the functioning of stock ex- poor in poverty, squeeze the work for the same expansion by him and by others too nu- in plain sight of somnolent manipulations that are tak- Union Finance Minister P. ble penalties in India. This changes and ancillary trades middle class and reduce its of discretion at the state level. merous to mention. The list (and seemingly complicit) ing place almost with impu- Chidambaram not hiding needs to change during should be given high prior- numbers while at the same Every crisis is used by them of those who have clandes- regulators. The losses made nity in certain exchanges in his partiality towards cer- Modi 2.0. ity during Modi 2.0. Among time leaving the wealthy un- for the purpose, including tinely secured a passport of as a consequence of market India. All they do is create tain exchanges. This com- PROTECT GENUINE the steps that could be taken scathed. the reverberations to public convenience as a prelude to mischief get distributed an illusion of accountability bined with an open display INVESTORS is to avoid cartels and mo- TRANSFORMATIONAL policy caused by the novel escape overseas is growing. amongst hundreds of thou- that television anchors can of hostility to the business PM Modi can protect inves- nopolies by permitting in- CHANGE INITIATED coronavirus. Since the 1950s, What is needed urgently is sands of investors, who al- declaim over until public at- rivals of favoured entities. tors by passing a law that vestors to access the market A start at substantive struc- policymakers in India have a transformational change most always lack the unity tention moves on to another Thus far, Chidambaram has would make the clearing in ways more freely than at tural reforms has been been talking of decentralised in the matrix of policy that and political and financial subject and the inactivity of been held to account only for corporation repay funds to present. Trust the citizen made during Modi 2.0 in Panchayati Raj, without tak- is designed to enhance the reach and resources nec- the agencies gets ignored in pocket change rather than defrauded investors with- while keeping an eye out Education and Agriculture, ing the steps needed to de- capability of the economy essary to secure justice the thrill of a fresh diet of the substantial amounts of out the latter having to go for the very few who betray although in both fields addi- volve sufficient finances and to begin growing at an an- through a legal system not “breaking news”. money that flow from stock through the judicial mecha- that confidence in the integ- tional fine tuning is needed authority down the line of nual minimum of 9%. This always known for speed in MISUSE OF MARKET market manipulations. The nism. An amendment needs rity of citizens of the world’s of the reforms undertaken. administrative jurisdiction. floor rate is needed to enable decisions. As a consequence, MECHANISM PC Network is making to be incorporated into the most populous democ- The government’s policy These are matters requir- social stability to be main- the perpetrators of such A few brokerage houses can sure that the light shines SCRA which provides that racy. Change is needed in a options have to be secured ing urgent attention during tained so as to create the frauds have thus far mostly bring about a shock to the on only a small patch. This in cases where client funds situation where fraud has from a much larger pool Modi 2.0, and the worry of conditions for double digit escaped not merely penal- economic system as would is in order to avoid a situa- and securities have been become rampant and pun- of talent than the limited those opposed to Narendra growth rates spread over a ties or prosecution, but even severely retard its prospects. tion where the culpability in used to settle another cli- ishment of the perpetrator group comprising the higher Modi is that he will finally generation. If Beijing could detection. Their cabals en- Among the ways in which frauds and sabotage of com- ent or broker trades, the almost non-existent. Every bureaucracy and their long- ensure such changes, hence do it, why not Delhi? joy official as well as politi- this can be done (and gets peting entities of those still in settlement will be void. The investor cheated of his or term contacts. Innovations the intensifying effort to de- TERMITES IN THE cal protection. While some done) include: high positions gets exposed. clearing corporation being her money is a family ru- which include substantial stroy his goodwill and cred- STOCK MARKET brokerage entities have been (a) transfer of client securi- The PC network ensures the central counter party ined, something that should horizontal recruitment and ibility especially within the An institution affecting tens directly involved in actions ties without authority that its members be pro- should be obliged to return be eliminated through dis- the resulting embedding of middle class. This group is of millions of the middle that have reduced hundreds (from the client); tected from discovery or the funds or securities to the covery and punishment of domain specialists need to the link between the poor class that is vulnerable to of thousands of investors to (b) trading without authority penalties in case any gets dis- affected clients. This is pos- offenders in a manner that be introduced. Corrupt of- and the wealthy, and forms attack by the anti-Modi coa- penury, greater effort needs (from the client); covered, usually by accident. sible as the properties lost is the opposite of the past.

STUDENTS AT RISK Unrecognised varsities operate despite blacklisting by UGC plomas or is still functioning. lor further added that this Asked about this notice, Court’s order claiming that for Self Employment” from UGC has listed about seven UGC list. certificates This correspondent called course will provide multi- the admission counsellor the apex court has dismissed Delhi, has been termed “fake” such unregistered universi- Other states like Odisha provided by these the institute to seek admis- ple certifications and that said, “We do not know how all AICTE cases and has ap- by the UGC year after year. ties operating in Delhi. Some and West Bengal have two “universities” are sion in a digital marketing the institute is recognised this notice appeared. We are proved them for imparting However, despite this, the of the other so-called univer- such fake universities each not recognised by course and the “admission and affiliated to the Delhi looking into this.” MBA degrees without AI- university continues to oper- sities in Delhi include a one- in both states. These fake the UGC or any other body. counsellor” on the other University, and the Union Another such institute CTE approval. ate. The “university’s” web- room university in Daryaganj universities in West Bengal One such institute in Delhi side of the phone, speaking Ministry of Education. which continues to operate However, a UGC notice site has a well-listed course which goes by the name of are offering homoeopathy which runs under the name on behalf of the institute, said, The UGC in October 2019 despite the UGC blacklist- dated May 2019 mentions which it offers. Its website Commercial University Ltd, and alternative medicine of National Institute of Man- “We have three courses in digi- had issued a public notice ing it is the IIPM (Indian that this aforesaid institute also showcases photos of and another by the name of courses to its students and agement Solutions, operates tal marketing, but the most through which it had said Institute of Planning and does not have the authority political leaders who have United Nations University, both are registered in Kol- from a building in Janakpuri sought-after course in digital that this institute was not Management). The institute to provide any undergradu- visited the “university”. among others. kata, the state capital. in West Delhi and is listed as marketing is MBA in digital recognised by the UGC and runs a website calling for ad- ate or postgraduate degrees The “university” has also Delhi and Uttar Pradesh Some other states like Ma- an unrecognised university marketing. It is a one-year it had no authority to provide missions in various courses. which includes MBA as well. uploaded letters of creden- have the highest number of harashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, by the UGC. Despite this, the regular course which will Bachelors or Masters degree The institute’s website, on the Another “university” which tials from the Delhi govern- such “universities”. Uttar Andhra Pradesh and Pu- website of this institute is cost Rs 210,000.” either through regular mode home page has also put out runs under the name of ment’s Department of Edu- Pradesh has eight such “uni- ducherry have one fake uni- calling for admissions and The admission counsel- or through distance mode. a long note on the Supreme “Vishwakarma University cation. versities” operating as per the versity in each of the states. the sunday guardian 27 september-03 october 2020 new delhi the big story 17 www.sundayguardianlive.com

‘FALSE OUTRAGE’ Opposition leaders, MPs, CMs had agreed on urgent farm reforms

the small From the Rajya Sabha, the “Market fee and commission lukewarm response when ket, dominance of middle- access to government pro- and D&N Haveli. reforms, the Central gov- farmers. seven non-BJP members charges are legally to be it came to reforming the man in APMCs, lack of curement facilities for agri- “The Committee further ernment in July 2019 had There are 24 were Partap Singh Bajwa levied on traders; however, APMC market. transportation facilities etc. culture produce due to var- notes that the status of in- constituted a high-powered Departmentally (Congress), Sukhdev Sin- the same is collected from “Remunerative pricing are major factors which ious reasons such as small frastructure and other civic committee of Chief Minis- Related Standing Commit- gh Dhindsa (SAD), Ram farmers by deducting the for the farmers cannot be propel majority of small agriculture surplus, dis- facilities in APMC mar- ters for transforming agri- tees, with the Committee Nath Thakur (JDU), Vaiko amount from farmers’ net ensured unless a number and marginal farmers to tance to the procurement kets varies widely across culture under the convenor- on Agriculture being one (MDMK), R. Vaithilingam proceeds,” the report stated. of marketing platforms use the services of local centre, delay in payment, the country and only 65% ship of , of them. These committees, (AIADMK), Chhaya Verma The Committee also for farm produce are en- middleman or shops to cumbersome bureaucratic market have 25% facility of former Chief Minister of whose term of office does (Congress) and Chandrapal noted that “provisions in hanced and the functioning dispose of their surplus ag- procedure etc. “These fac- toilets, whereas only 38% Maharashtra. The Member not exceed one year, are Singh Yadav (SP). the APMC Act in some of APMC markets is made riculture produce much be- tors and lack of alternative markets have Farmers Rest Secretary of the committee mandated to exhaustively The standing commit- states are so restrictive democratic and transpar- low the Minimum Support marketing platforms lead House. The Committee was Prof Ramesh Chand, study and consider the spe- tee, which was headed by to the interest of farmers ent. The Committee appre- Prices (MSP) announced by to a situation where farm- further notes that only 15% Member, NITI Aayog. The cific issues at hand. BJP MP from Karnataka, that market fee is levied ciates the efforts of the gov- the government.” ers do not have any option APMC markets have a cold committee also had Captain Interestingly, out of these P.C Gaddigoudar, found even when sale of agricul- ernment for reforms in the According to the com- but to sell their produce to storage facility, whereas , Chief 31 members, only 13 were that “the APMC Act which ture produce takes place APMC market. However, mittee report, despite the middlemen with very lit- weighing facility is avail- Minister of Punjab; Kamal from the BJP—10 from the was enacted in various outside the market yard. the Committee is surprised success of the farmers in tle and no profit at all. The able in only 49% markets. Nath, Chief Minister of Lok Sabha and three from state governments with The Committee members to note the lukewarm re- ensuring food security of Committee is of the opin- These APMC markets also Madhya Pradesh; Manohar the Rajya Sabha. The re- the objectives to ensure an were informed that mar- sponse of the state govern- the country, they were not ion that failure of the Cen- fare poorly in banking, in- Lal Khattar, Chief Minis- maining 18 MPs (11 from environment for fair play ket fee is collected in some ments towards reforms able to get remunerative tral and state governments ternet connectivity and dry- ter of Haryana; Narender the Lok Sabha and 7 Rajya for supply and demand states even without actual in the APMC market. The pricing for their produce. to ensure transparent and ing facilities. The Commit- Singh Tomar, Minister of Sabha) were from other forces thereby resulting in trade-transaction having Committee is also of the “The Committee further easily accessible market- tee has also been informed Agriculture and Rural De- parties including Congress, an effective price discovery taken place and simply on opinion that provisions re- notes that the procurement ing platforms for agricul- that civic infrastructure velopment and Panchayati BSP, All India Trinamool for farm produce, regulate landing the commodity at garding entry fee and other of rice and wheat by the ture produce is one of the at most of the APMC mar- Raj; , Chief Congress, NCP, MDMK, market practices and attain processing units and some cess levied on transaction of government agencies (FCI reasons for poor financial kets are in a very bad shape Minister of Odisha; Pema TRS, Shiv Sena, Janata Dal transparency in transac- states treat transaction agriculture produce should and state government agen- condition of the majority causing inconvenience to Khandu, Chief Minister of (United), YSR Congress, tions, has become hotbed outside the market yard as be done away with as it will cies) are one of the main of farmers of the country. the farmers. The Commit- Arunachal Pradesh; Vijay Samajwadi Party (SP) and of politics, corruption and illegal. Multiple licences help to reduce corruption platforms available to the There is a need to create tee, therefore, recommends Rupani, Chief Minister of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). monopoly of traders and are required for trading in and malpractices prevalent farmers for sale of agricul- platforms for marketing the government to initiate Gujarat; and Yogi Adity- The 11 non-BJP Lok Sabha middleman”. multiple APMC markets in APMC markets. The ture produce. However, the of agriculture produce so consultation with the state anath, Chief Minister of Ut- members, who were a part The Committee mem- and multiple market fees on Committee would like the Committee notes that the that access of farmers to government concerned tar Pradesh. of the standing commit- bers further stated that the the same commodity even government to hold discus- government was able to the end consumers may be to enhance the number of This high-powered com- tee, included Afzal Ansari APMC markets across the within the state are collect- sion with the state govern- procure only 358.82 million enhanced. This will help agriculture markets in the mittee had its first meet- (BSP), A. Ganeshamurthi country “were not work- ed. The Committee further ments to abolish entry fee tonnes of wheat as against to ensure remunerative country and for improve- ing on 18 July 2019, dur- (MDMK), Abu Taher Khan ing in the interest of farm- notes that APMC Acts are and other cess in APMC production of 1340.02 mi- pricing for agricultural ment of civic infrastructure, ing which it was decided (AITC), Amol Ramsing ers due to various reasons highly restrictive in promo- markets.” ilion tonnes (26.77 %) and produce and therefore in- banking facility, digital to bring amendments to Kolhe (NCP), Bheemrao such as limited numbers of tion of multiple channels of The Committee further 487.60 million tonnes of crease the income of farm- connectivity and other fa- the Agricultural Produce Baswanthrao Patil (TRS), traders in APMCs markets marketing and competition noted that existing market- rice as against production ers,” the report states. cilities in APMC markets. Market Committee Act and Navneet Ravi Rana (Inde- thereby reducing competi- in the system”. ing platforms available to of 1557.75 million tonnes There are 6,630 APMC The Committee desires Essential Commodities pendent), Vinayak Bhaurao tion, cartelization of trad- According to the Com- the majority of small and (31.30%) during the period markets in 23 states and five the government to devise Act. The second meeting Raut (Shiv Sena), Pocha ers, undue deduction in the mittee members, there was marginal farmers were of 2002-03 to 2017- 18.” union territories. There are a Centrally-sponsored of the committee was held Brahmananda Reddy (YSR name of market fee, com- an urgent need for radical inadequate to sell surplus Further, the Committee no APMC markets in the scheme for modernisation in Mumbai on 16 August Congress), Mohammad mission charges etc”. reforms in the APMC Act agriculture produce and members observed that states of Bihar, Kerala, Ma- of APMC markets in the 2019. According to official Sadique (Congress), V.K. The report stated that the in order to provide justice ensure remunerative prices small and marginal farm- nipur, Mizoram and Sikkim country,” the report states. sources, the report of this Sreekandan (Congress) provisions of the APMC to the farmers. According for their investment. “Vari- ers, who constitute the ma- and in the UTs of Andaman Apart from involving the committee has already been and Mulayam Singh Yadav Acts were not being imple- to the members, the state ous factors such as distance jority of the farming com- & Nicobar Islands, Lak- Members of Parliament to submitted to the CEO of (SP). mented in their true sense. governments had given a to the nearest APMC mar- munity in the country, lack shadweep, Daman & Diu discuss these agricultural NITI Aayog.

CHINA-PAK NEXUS at the united nations Roeplying t Imran, ISI using Chinese hexacopters, India turns mirror on Pak’s record of drones to flood J&K with guns genocide, terrorism done, ac- and Kashmir are strictly in- One Chinese made Norinco T97 NSR ARUL LOUIS cording to United Nations ternal affairs of India.” sources, to mini- rifle, one AK47 rifle with four magazines The only dispute, he said, mise the instanc- India turned the mirror was Islamabad’s illegal oc- es of terrorists and 218 rounds and three grenades on Pakistan after its Prime cupation of Kashmiri terri- being killed at the LoC itself. were discovered. The consignment was Minister Imran Khan deliv- tory, which it must vacate, Ever since January, the ered a speech at the UN drip- Vinito said. security forces have dis- dropped from a drone at Samba. ping vitriol, and recalled its He said that Khan’s speech covered at least 15 such in- record of genocide in Ban- was a “new low” and his stances where Chinese made gladesh, being a haven for words “demean the very es- arms were recovered either terrorists and suppression sence of the UN”. from individuals or were in region were Rampur sector. On 18 Au- of minorities. “For a nation that is deeply discovered near the LoC. seized by Jammu and Kash- gust, one AK-47 rifle was Indian UN Mission’s First buried in medievalism, it Six of these have happened mir Police. recovered along the Line Secretary Mijito Vinito said is understandable that the in September alone. Similarly, on 18 September, of Control in the Tangdhar on Friday: “The leader of tenets of a modern civilised On the intervening night of two AK-56 rifles, two pis- sector. Pakistan today called for society such as peace, dia- 23-24 September 2020, the tols and four grenades were On 31 July, three AK-47 those who incite hate and logue and diplomacy are security forces arrested two recovered along the Line of rifles, one Pika Gun, one violence to be outlawed. But, farfetched,” Vinito said. individuals while they were Control in Sector Sniper Rifle, 12 grenades as he went on, we were left He called Khan’s speech the going from Jammu to South which, too, were dropped and two UBGLs were re- wondering, was he referring “incessant rant of someone Kashmir. One Chinese made by a Pakistani drone. covered along the Line of to himself?” who had nothing to show for Norinco T97 NSR rifle, four The security forces, on 14 Control in the Machil sec- During his pre-recorded himself, who had no achieve- magazines with 190 rounds, September, recovered two tor. On 22 July, one AK-47 speech shown at the Gen- ments to speak of, and no one AK47 rifle with four China made QBZ 95 rifles rifle, five pistols and 24 eral Assembly earlier in the reasonable suggestion to of- magazines and 218 rounds in the sector of North grenades were recovered day, Khan had repeated the fer to the world”. and three grenades were dis- Kashmir when they chal- along the Line of Control same allegations about In- “The only crowning glory covered from them. Their in- lenged a group of terrorists in the Rampur sector. dia as last year focused on that this country has to terrogation revealed that the attempting to infiltrate from On 6 July, three AK-47 the Rashtriya Swayamsevak show to the world for the consignment was dropped Pakistan-occupied Jammu rifles and two pistols were Sangh (RSS) and the Bharati- last 70 years is terrorism, from a drone at Samba. and Kashmir. These terror- recovered along the Line ya (BJP) assert- ethnic cleansing, majoritar- “The nexus between China ists abandoned their ruck- of Control in the Uri sector. ing they and the government ian fundamentalism, and and Pakistan in arming the sacks before jumping into On 8 June, two AK-56 rifles, were persecuting minorities. clandestine nuclear trade,” terrorists in Jammu and the Kishanganga river. The two UBGL, five pistols and He also raised the Kashmir he added. Kashmir is becoming more bodies of the two terrorists, 57 grenades were recovered issue, suggesting Security Vinito reminded Pakistan evident with every passing who had drowned, were re- along the Line of Control in Council action there with a of what he sarcastically day. The evidence we have of covered later. the Keran sector. peacekeeping force. called its “stellar record.” Chinese ‘goods’ being used On 12 September, the BSF On 31 March, two AK-47 Vinito, an Indian Foreign Referring to the massacre to spread terror in India are troops recovered one AK-47 rifles and one pistol were Service diplomat of the of over a million people by too many,” a senior Intelli- rifle, one M16 Rifle and two recovered along the Line of 2010 batch who had walked Pakistani troops and its allies gence officer said. pistols which were smug- Control in the Keran sector. outduring Khan’s speech, in what was its province of gled across the IB fence in On 22 March, eight AK-47 took him on exercising New East Pakistan in 1971 and is RECOVERIES MADE Ferozpur Kudian. On 8 Sep- rifles and 28 grenades were Delhi’s right of reply. now Bangladesh, Vinito said: On 23 September, five AK-47 tember, the forces recovered recovered as dumped on the He dismissed Khan’s “This is the country that rifles, and two pistols were one AK-47, one M-4 Rifle, Line of Control in the Keran claims to Kashmir saying: brought genocide to South recovered in the Ferozpur two magazines and six pis- sector. “Let me assert here loud and Asia 39 years back when it Mamdot sector. On 22 Sep- tols which were smuggled On 19 January, a Pakistani clear. The Union Territory killed its own people. This tember, two AK assault from across the IB. Quad copter was recovered of Jammu and Kashmir is is also the country that is rifles, one pistol, three AK On 30 August, seven AK- by the BSF in the an integral and inalienable shameless enough not to of- magazines and 90 rounds 47 rifles, two pistols and 29 sector, with one M4 rifle, part of India. The rules and fer a sincere apology for the which were airdropped by a Seized assault rifles and paraphernalia produced by Chinese state-owned defence corporation grenades were recovered two magazines, 60 rounds legislations brought in the horrors it perpetrated even Pakistani drone in a village Norinco, smuggled into Kashmir by ISI-backed groups. along the Line of Control in and seven grenades. Union Territory of Jammu after so many years.” IANS 27 sept-03 oct 2020

Poirot belongs to Agatha Christie: SOPHIE HANNAH British novelist Sophie Hannah, in an interview with G20, talks about her latest book The Killings at Kingfisher Hill, the art of writing thrillers, and if she revisited any Agatha Christie novel for writing a new Poirot mystery. wanted to appropriate or if when I find out the truth Latha Srinivasan change him in any way. it’s a disappointment?’ Cre- There’s a reason he’s so well ating suspense is so much ou’re back with the loved by readers and I want- more than just presenting a fourth Poirot mystery. ed to keep him, and all of question: ‘Who is the mur- YDo you ever re-visit this brilliant idiosyncrasies, derer?’ or ‘What was the any Agatha Christie novels be- totally in tact! I’ve become motive?’ Suspense, once es- fore you start writing? so familiar with Poirot over tablished, needs to be stoked A. As a lifelong and totally the years that I do find him throughout the novel to keep obsessed fan, I’m always re- easy to write – he’s like an old the reader’s interest tightly reading Agatha Christie’s friend! wound. novels so I don’t have any Q. You’ve also brought back Q. The Poirot in this novel seems particular re-visiting sched- Christie’s complicated and dys- closest to Christie’s. ule before I start to write a functional family in this novel. A. I’m delighted if my read- new Poirot. I dip into my A. A fascination with dys- ers feel this way as I have collection on a regular ba- functional families and the always wanted—and tried sis and while I suppose you harm they can inflict on lying or mad. The explora- very hard— to stay true to could call it research, to me their members is something tion of the various, complex the Hercule Poirot we all it’s pure pleasure! which Agatha and I have in and ever-evolving rela- know and love. I’m always Q. In this book too, you’ve stayed common. As a writer, I’ve tionships that exist within thrilled when I hear from very true to building Christie’s long been interested in how families make for rich and readers who say they’ve Poirot and the other characters. particular dynamics within wonderful stories and Aga- British novelist Sophie Hannah. loved the books but the best How easy or difficult is it to do families can play out – my tha made brilliant use of this compliments are from those that? first ever crime novel Little in many of her books: After the integral to the mystery ing this? find out, and then when it The feeling in life is from the who say they were initially A. I have always firmly be- Face, for example, features the Funeral, Hercule Poirot’s of The Killings at Kingfisher A. I think that form related starts to approach the end possibility of receiving bad apprehensive about Poi- lieved that Poirot belongs a woman convinced her Christmas, Crooked House Hill. fear works really well in fic- and you are going to find news, but in a crime novel rot being brought back but to Agatha Christie; I’m just husband has swapped their and The Hollow, to name a Q. Building the suspense is not tion. It means that for the out, the excitement comes it’s from a different source, ‘I who, having read my ver- a new person who’s work- new baby for another, even few. It’s a preoccupation I ab- easy every single time. What first three quarters of the from a different source; do have so enjoyed not knowing sion of him, are now de- ing with him and I’ve never though he insists she’s either solutely love and very much do you keep in mind when do- book, you are desperate to I actually want to know? and being in suspense, what lighted! Designer Reynu Taandon’s art Prevention always better of bridal canvas embellishment than cure: Dr Babina

Kritika Dua New Delhi

Reynu Taandon’s showcase at the FDCI India Couture Week 2020 was a complete handwoven affair dipped in spectacular opulence. NEEVA JAIN New Delhi The models adorned exqui- site lehengas, anarkalis, saris, Dr Babina N.M., Chief Medi- sharara and gharara as the de- cal Officer at Jindal Nature- signer experimented with care Institute, speaks to G20 light zari work, block printing, about the unprecedented gota patti work, patch work Covid-19 pandemic and the Dr Babina N.M. is CMO at Jindal Naturecare Institute. and the zardozi work on chan- ways to tackle a myriad is- tion and elimination of food. cal, and social factors that deri. The eco-friendly col- sues at home. Excerpts: An unhealthy lifestyle and are unique to each patient. lection ‘Surkh’ presented Q. How are you adapting to bad dietary habits are two We have a number of cost- an elegant melange of tra- the trying times we are experi- of the main causes. In our effective treatment plans for dition and contemporane- encing? practice, we try to speed up patients from economically ity shrouded in the timeless A. At present, we are not ad- detoxification by stimulating vulnerable backgrounds. hues. On what influenced mitting any patients. Patient the four natural outlets for Q. Can you share some tips re- and shaped up the collec- safety is our top priority, and waste secretion — the colon, garding boosting the immunity tion, Reynu says, “Surkh re- we want to make sure we are the kidneys, the lungs, and at home? fers to the colour red which doing everything we can to the skin. A: Consume vitamin C-rich symbolises passion and I curb the spread of Covid-19. Q. Can you tell us about the rel- foods like lemon, orange, have created this collection Since we get patients from evance of the ideas and benefits gooseberry, guava and with just as much passion. all over the world, reopen- of naturopathy and yoga amid pineapple. Zinc-rich foods Nowadays the brides have Veteran designer Reynu Taandon. ing our doors not only puts the pandemic? like cashew nuts, pumpkin a contemporary approach of uncertainty amongst put into it which I did not them in danger but is also A. According to the WHO, seeds, sunflower seeds, leg- about the hair, makeup and them about work earlier so want to be futile. However, a cause of concern for state good health is a state of umes, lentils, chickpeas and overall look but the bridal they buckled up and gave I realised that digital is the and public health authorities. physical, mental and social beans help the immune sys- lehenga is an exception. their all. This announcement way to go with the current The medical experts in our wellbeing, and not just the tem function optimally. Re- Many of them want a royal was a blessing as we can now scenario. The upside is earli- facility are doing everything absence of disease. Negative place regular tea with ginger and regal look look for the participate in annual fashion er only limited people could they can to educate patients thoughts can also weaken tea, tulsi tea or green tea. For D-day. Taking inspiration events without risking our be accommodated but now online. More than ever, the our immunity. To give you an a simple detox drink, grind from it, I created ‘Surkh’ for health.” millions would be able to pandemic has foregrounded analogy, just as sanitizers act up onions, ginger, garlic, tur- the contemporary brides The veteran designer adds watch the show.” the need to take care of our as a shield against respiratory meric, black pepper, lemon who are traditional at the setting of the show exuded in order to accomplish the that the coordination and Talking about technology health. Improving our im- pathogens, a positive state of juice and jaggery, with a little core. I went traditional from old world charm, inspired target. Some of the artisans preparation of the show upping the ante of the fash- munity is just as important mind and a healthy immune honey for sweetness. Honey the silhouette to the em- from old gharanas, forts and were in their hometowns were done through video ion world, she underlines, as avoiding the infection. We system shield you on the also has antioxidant and an- broidery and incorporated palaces. and were called back, quar- consultations, the safer “The constant development can achieve this via lifestyle inside. By following naturo- tibacterial properties that the classic bridal red as the Reynu’s initial reaction antined and underwent way of connection in these of technology would lead the changes, dietary modifica- pathic principles and prac- improve digestion and boost color besides using khush- when she first heard that Covid-19 tests in order to re- times. Reynu highlights, “I fashion industry towards a tions and regular exercise. ticing yoga, you can protect immunity. Getting enough numa (fuschia) and sharmayi India Couture Week is go- sume work. We took the nec- could visualise my dream more efficient and creative Q. What exactly is naturopathy. your immune system. vitamin D is also important gulabi (baby pink). I retained ing digital was of happiness essary precautions to main- which made me keep my future. This initiative of the What does it comprise of? Q. How is Jindal Naturecure as it is an effective immune the old world charm of the followed by a sigh of relief tain and ensure the safety of passion intact. We will be first digital Couture Week A. The central tenet of natur- Institute working towards the modulator and increases wedding attire as it’s the as the designer was ponder- every team member. It also catering to a larger client will bring to the forefront opathy is that prevention is benefit of the common person? the production of immune only day where a modern- ing on ways to buck up her provided an opportunity to base through the FDCI In- each designer experiences better than cure. We believe A. We believe in a preven- cells. Probiotics like yogurt day woman wants to dress staff. She elaborates, “The educate the people around dia Couture Week 2020. A fashion. Also, people have that the accumulation of tive and holistic approach and curd help improve gut up completely traditional. I pandemic brought along a us about safety standards digital fashion show was a the sensibility to understand toxins is the root cause of all to healthcare, and our na- health, which in turn forti- felt that after the pandemic wave of negativity but the while working for the big- new concept, so initially, I how the garments would diseases, and we emphasise turopaths have decades of fies the immune system. brides would like to get opportunity given by FDCI gest event of the fashion in- had apprehensions about look through videos with on detoxifying and cleansing experience designing patient- Drink at least three liters of married in a red lehenga, instilled hope in my team. It dustry. It brought back the the collection’s reach and zoom shots doing justice to the system. Toxins can be centric treatments after thor- water a day as it is important the reason I played around provided them with a com- joy of work amid the chaos. will people buy the clothes? the detailing and intricate produced in the body due to oughly studying the physical, to stay hydrated. Avoid car- with shades of red.” The mon goal and drive to work There was an environment Since a great effort is being craftsmanship.” improper digestion, absorp- environmental, psychologi- bonated drinks. the sunday guardian 20: supplement to the sunday guardian | 27 September-03 october 2020 | new delhi Guardian 20 19

A Shared Analysing PM Modi from Slice RENÉE Ranchan sociological point of view Bollywood’s As per author Indu Shekhar, Narendra Modi’s personality reflects impact, idealism Sound of Silence and a soul that is forged out of the adversaries in life with a relentless effort to lead. t’s not been quite two weeks when Jaya Bachchan whipped up, yet another debate (if that’s what one can Adversity is sometimes Divided into four sections, the book runs Icall it) in Parliament, in a rather shouty voice that usually hard upon a man; but for comes when pressing on an old bruise. She went foghorn one man who can stand through and analyses twist and turns loud fuming over how the film industry was being target- prosperity, there are a hun- in the life of Narendra Modi—from his ted, accused of peddling and consuming drugs, that too by dred that will stand adver- members of the same fraternity. Supposedly it was the broad sity.” Invoking Carlyle and childhood, travels, marital life, life as a range of thoughts articulated by Ravi Kishan, an MP from his own passion to study the BJP and a renowned actor as well, that made Jayaji hit the the relationship between member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak ceiling. Or in actuality, was it Kangana Ranaut, post Sushant man and his world, Shek- Sangh, relationship with his mother, to Singh Rajput’s death relentlessly going on and on, without har delves into the person- coming up for a breather, roaring from a mountain-top, that ality of Narendra Damod- being the 14th Prime Minister of India. Bollywood was full of Dopeheads, and no high-end party ardas Modi. In his view, went without the heavy consumption of drugs that were Gracy Samjetsabam Modi as a personality re- worth lakhs and lakhs of rupees?! But back to Ravi Kishan, flects impact, idealism and he was not making any monstrous attack on Bollywood. Yes, Publisher: Manak a soul that is forged out of he conceded, that there were no or perhaps, a few Smack- Publications the adversaries in life with lic personalities, Shekhar including questions and dis- heads in the 1980s and 1990s, but over the past decade, a Pages: 165 a relentless effort to lead. To mentions Barack Obama’s courses of the ascetic life, ra- drug nexus had infiltrated not only the film world but the Price: Rs 750 understand and explain the appreciation for the “energy tional, secular, communica- entire nation. A conspiracy was at large to wrought havoc transition of Modi’s person- and readiness” in Prime tion, reinforcement of roles on our youth thereby, with rapid relentlessness bringing In- ince the day Prime ality from boy who used to Minister Modi’s leadership. as a person and as a public dia on its knees …Still am trying to figure out Jaya’s towering Minister Narendra sell tea, to becoming the 14th He eludes to the variables of figure, events and percep- rage, her being so incensed that yesteryear’s Dream Girl— SModi assumed the and current Prime Minister energy and readiness, and tions of a resurgent India, who belies her 70-odd years, retaining her ethereal beauty— leadership of the largest of India, the author uses the its function in free-decision idea of the great tradition Hema Malini had to speak up as well. Afterall, she too, was a democracy in the world, notions of the “soul self,” by researching on the sourc- and the little tradition, the Member of Parliament and had to render her support to Ms his life and times have been “role self” and “goal self” in es and consequences of shift from the local to the Bahaduri. Pardon me, slip of the tongue, ‘Bachchan’. Hema studied and analysed by a the “Personality System”. these variables on the per- universal man and varied had been a heroine to Amitabh in a number of films, surely number of writers through Thus, Shekhar employs a sonality system of Modi. By dimensions of questions the need of the hour was not to keep mum. Speaking of the different prisms and lenses. methodology that analyses drawing signs and reading that work on the manage- sounds of silence, rather peculiar, that after Rajput’s death, His journey till now, both the variables that contrib- on the meanings produced ments of this building of our top actors who tweet on everything, come rain or shine, personal and political, has ute to the making of the through these traits and the self. Shekhar shows had no comment regarding his supposed substance abuse. increasingly gained atten- personality of the subject their workings in his life’s interest in the knowledge Or that his live-in partner, Rhea Chakraborty, was in a thriv- tion in India and across the and relevant theories to experiences during child- or attributes of the work- ing drug liaison readily supplying dope to her boyfriend. world. Indu Shekhar’s book construct an understand- hood, or in his living a life ings of the soul through the These top-notch actors became tongue-tied or something An Apolitical Biography of Na- ing of the personality of the of celibacy, or a yogic life, goals setting and roles play- more like, the cat bit your tongue?! In a TV interview Hema rendra Modi is a perceptive self and its performance Shekhar mainly draws on dia. Just as the title suggest, Shekhar provides an under- ing or vice versa and there- speaks of Bollywood’s immense contribution to the world of contribution to the grow- and influence. sociological and psychologi- the book is “an apolitical standing of the function of after, the churning and the art. No doubt on that front, but when asked about film par- ing amount of literature Narration and craftman- cal theories to undertake the biography,” where Shekhar “energy” and likewise, other deific transformation of the ties being less about hors d’ oeuvres, wine and music, she on the Prime Minister. The ship are the significant take- qualitative research, bring- works on the facts, events variables not intelligently self. off-handedly informs the anchor that she had no idea—being work leaves no doubt in the aways from the book but, ing forth the debates and and symbols to set the but scientifically on the self A number of books have not a part of the party scene! However, the truth of the mat- minds of the reader that the Shekhar’s mode of narrative discourse on the complexi- background with theoreti- and the making and becom- been written and published ter, to my 2+2=4 understanding is that it all started with Kan- author is an ardent admirer in the biography is not sto- ties and dimensions of the cal underpinnings of Marx, ing of Modi as the subject of on PM Modi, his personality gana Ranaut, soon after Rajput was found dead. Foul play, of the personality that PM rytelling but systematic and journey it takes to re-define Weber and Durkheim along study within the Weberian and leadership. Shekhar’s she cried early on, going as far to, with smouldering fury, Modi is. Nevertheless, the scientific. It is a biography a personality and the tussles with the models of division framework of a “Charismat- work is iconoclastic in its spew she’d return her National Award, if the actor’s death framework under which the deep in its methodological in the individual and the of selves by Freud, Erikson ic Leader”. approach and employment was not investigated. Murder, she cried! No suicide was it, study has been carried out rigour, research and appli- differentiations in the self, and others. Thus, under- At the core of the book’s of sociological and psycho- she emphatically claimed. She spoke, in her quintessential and presented through the cation and Shekhar’s socio- and what comes out of it. He scoring the sociological, framework of the study logical theories to not only style, without mincing words, about the Dil Bechara star’s book, sheds light on how the logical imagination focusses clearly sets down the propo- psychological and situation- on “personality system” is the life and times of Naren- state spurred on by his head turned inside out as his chai, author has used an evident- on the study of the man and sitions, the contexts, the ap- al dynamics of the develop- Shekhar’s idea that the self, dra Damodardas Modi, but juice, soup or whatever, was being laced with drugs. Un- ly sociological perspective the world. The book brings proaches, and the methods ment of the personality to comprises of three elements also to provide a framework doubtedly, Kangana is a headline grabber so whatever she to assess and analyse the out the interrelation and to do so. bring out the relevance of — the soul, role and goal — for further scientific stud- says, or does, is naturally going to be brewed beyond boiling Prime Minister Modi’s per- interlinkages between the Divided into four sections the examination and ap- and that, they have a symbi- ies on other personalities point…But this actress does have a point. sonality in the private and man that is Modi and the the book runs through and preciation of the evolution otic relationship where on whose “soul, role and goal” the public domain. world through the lens of analyses twist and turns in of the self in the life of Modi the one hand, the soul plays have had and will have an as Sushant driven to depression, was he given Shekhar cites Thomas history and society; look- the life of Narendra Modi and qualify it as an attempt the synthesis and on the impact on history and soci- drugs sometimes knowingly and at other times Carlyle who said, “The his- ing at the ‘self-traits’ or the from childhood, travels, to contribute to the body of one hand, the goal and role ety at large. Won the sly either to calm him down or to cause tory of the world is but the ‘qualitative traits in the per- marital life, life as a member knowledge of understand- interchangeably play the hallucinations? Little purpose would be served in rewind- biography of great men. All sonality system’ and there- of the Rashtriya Swayam- ing the development of the thesis and the anti-thesis. The writer is a Research Schol- ing the sequence of his suicide or murder, yet it—certainly human things do require by, constructing a theoreti- sevak Sangh, relationship qualitative research. Writ- Within the three divisions, ar at Manipal Institute of Com- does send one in a flap to think that a 5-finger exercise of to have an ideal in them; cal edifice that makes Modi with his mother and to the ing about the element of en- he discusses numerous as- munication, Manipal Academy how he died—remains a mystery, unsolved even a good three to have some soul in them. an apt subject for the study. Prime Ministership of In- ergy and dynamism in pub- pects of self-making process of Higher Education, Manipal. months after his being no more. Police-mafia tie-in?! Or if one thinks not, then should not the Mumbai police hang their heads in shame for their lackadaisical conduct and pull up their socks or better, turn in their badges?! But if the Till next birth, Madan holding your dinner warm Consuming the right cops, think that twiddling their fingers is all that they can do, I will be that incense smoke since to go idiomatic, ‘the local fire station burnt down last my love Curling sinuously around your beloved week’, should they not be pelted by a rain of bullets?! Some deity information is key dizzying questions unstoppably, almost feverishly have been The same Sun that clambers up whom you pray to doing the rounds of my mind. (Talk of pedestrians wearing The East and slide down the West I will be the tears you shed a cause. It is easier to blame out roads!) Supposing, Sushant was a Junkie, then how is to unfailing pop up the next dawn Abhishekam a news anchor or a newspa- it that in his recently released movies, Chhichhore and Dil The anxious Moon will go its From your eyes to the floor per but it is always hard to Bechara (the latter, with double irony at play, had him die in Monthly yoyo diet I will be that pause as you clear say that I have a choice not the film post his demise in real life…) he displays such verve, while distant stars having emitted your throat, the familiar Manthras to hear or read what I con- such enthusiasm, acting skills portraying a panorama of Their light have died and gone Having a distance your never perceived sider is harmful or dishonest emotions, not over-the-top-expressions, but nuanced, sub- Into black holes of their own creation I will be the wide grin of the girl information. tle ones if he was stoned from head to toe?! And how is it The perennially forgiving Earth you educate, the one who still It is always easy to get lured that he had a sculpted, well-toned body that can only be ac- Will nurture those cannibal species on brings you flowers on Tuesdays Richa Kapoor by the information that is quired after regular, disciplined exercise and a special diet, it I will be the silence of he who calls you entertaining and often de- designed to remain fit and healthy?! The body, the temple of Called human beings “Re Kishan!”, the only one to do so What used to be once regard- meaning someone else. We the mind?! And it definitely is not a walk in the park galore She will throw a few tantrums of Now that your aunt is dead ed as a Page 3 article is now all in someone or the other with caroling larks, fragrant roses and precious orchids to anger, wet Tsunamis, fiery earthquakes I will be your pocket monster making rounds on the front get sadistic pleasure seeing memorise dialogues for getting into the skin of the charac- Yet still let fodder and food grow out of Now retired into the pouch of Time pages. To lose a cause to an a bigger person go down or ter, so much so that one becomes the character?! Remember, Her Someone your hand reaches out for issue is what really has hap- lose reputation. All this al- M.S. Dhoni, the Untold Story? It is said that Dhoni was so taken To feed people and other gentler spe- By your knee pened in the Sushant Singh property was wrong. But is ways bleaches our vision to in by Sushant’s portrayal of him, down to the slight swivel of cies I will be the gathering clouds of the Rajput’s case. The reason for it right to tarnish the reputa- see the right information. his waist while swinging the bat from varied angles, depend- All this will still happen my darling Bombay monsoons present unfailingly which the entire nation came tion of everyone you dislike We like to believe in the thing ing on the pitch and the spin of the ball, to his facial expres- You will see, even after I leave I will be the song of vendors at the together was to understand without any proof? This that seems to entertain us sions, that he, Sushant, had flawlessly, pristinely cloned him. Yes my precious your hair shines silver Gateway of India, where the Taj waits what really caused the death reminds me so much of our more. This actor was self-made, had no Godfather and in a short Like the glow of a Super Moon Remembering us becoming of the actor. Was his suicide present Delhi CM, whose It is ok to disagree with a span managed to, as they say, ‘Live life King Size’. Brushing You sit on your bed I have usurped What we were, what we will be real? Was it a cover up? Was first agenda used to be to de- particular perspective. It is him aside, however, can any actor, director, technician etc. To watch me while I sleep I will wait darling like a tortoise he bullied or was it a live- fame opposition in any form ok to not have the same faith & etc. be on a surplus of drugs, to the extent that once the Well into the day Without its shell, the cockles of Time in relationship gone sour? and then fight legal battles and believe as someone else. affect wears off and tremors set in, the Acidhead needs more I hear you intoning prayers I learned concealed on this deserted Somehow now the questions with no real outcome. Since Likewise, it is ok to know of more to sustain himself?! The question is how in this in- While dreaming of dinner cooked by you Beach of Time, with waves marking are anything but this. Who he changed his formula of that information might not ebriated, hallucinatory condition does one drag oneself out A glass of white wine on the floor The passage of days and nights is drug-taker in Bollywood? politics, he certainly gained always be right therefore of bed, leave alone do Bollywood somersaulting stunts and Besides me, where I sprawl by your feet you have to live through Is Bollywood been reduced more votes and honest fans. what you are consuming and John Travolta’s ‘Saturday Night Fever’ dancing?! Is it not Your orange carpet a little faded till you hold me again to a parking space for spoils What is happening right how you are doing that you so, that ordinary mortals like us, are blurry-brained if say Like a hazy Sunrise in Bombay Bring your golden spectacles brats? Is Kangana Ranaut a now is not quite different: should be sure about it. Try we have had that extra goblet of wine?! Forget about liquor, The cries of the paper boy, the milk With you, in our next birth victim? Now no one seems Call everyone a drug abuser not to believe everything you or how about a 5-day course of antibiotics making one nau- man Where we shall love to care about the suspected and thanks to no checks and see and read without some seous, finding it hard to get through the day?! Or going on an rise up to your balcony The nurtured and the Nurturer Rs 15 crore missing story. No balances on social media, proof. Don’t make people eating spree of glutted-in-ghee food, what about that acidu- in a morning ritual all of its own Something I carelessly let slip one talks about his depres- people go ahead tarnishing stars and drug addicts just lated indisposition?! You, my man with velvet feet Through my fingers as I reached out sion. No one seems to really reputations without any ac- based on someone’s allega- Back to Bollywood. Definitely not laughing off that more Which have trodden rocky paths For steel balloons, filled with gas think there is an insider-out- countability. tions. than a handful consume but…but, ‘with a give us our daily That brought us so far Which glittered, but fell on me sider issue. The entire case is The issue lies in the per- As an audience of news & bread’ religiosity?! If so, cinema, would have long back, May I kiss you chastely on your brow? Crushing all that was Life, now all about Kangana vent- spective. That as an audi- information in all forms, you made its way to its comatose grave. And who does not know, Yes I shall hover around you from my body ing out her personally grudg- ence to the news we read should always be sure that ‘To live like a King, one has to work like a Slave…’ When you look out through your window —Lakshmi Bayi es. Which has also become and consume has happened you are certain about the in- more political than anything to us. We forget why in the formation you are taking in. Dr Renée Ranchan writes on socio-psychological issues, quasi-polit- else. What BMC did with her very first place we looked at It is always your choice. ical matters and concerns that touch us all. the sunday guardian 27 september – 03 october 2020 20 the week new delhi www.sundayguardianlive.com

FDA WARNING BENADRYL CHALLENGE POSES HEALTH RISK

washington: The U.S. Food and Drug Admin- istration on Thursday warned of serious health problems from higher consumption of the com- mon over-the-counter allergy medicine Benadryl following a social media challenge on TikTok. The higher intake could lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or even death, the agency said. The FDA said it was aware of reports of teen- agers getting admitted to emergency rooms or dying after participation in the “Benadryl Challenge” on the short-video app. Johnson & Johnson’s Benadryl is used to tem- porarily relieve symp- toms of hay fever, upper respiratory allergies, or the common cold, such as runny nose and sneezing.

COVID-19 Not a dumpster A child wears plastic bottle waste provided by climate change and environmental activists as they protest marking a global climate action day under the theme NO SAMBA #AfricaIsNotADumpster at the Uhuru Park’s Freedom Corner in Nairobi, Kenya, on Friday. Reuters

PARADE DUTCH ‘LIVING COFFIN’ AUTOGRAPH C hain reaCTION THIS YEAR sourceor f life after death bikes and pedestrians Kobe’S RIO DE JANERIO: DELFT: A Dutch start-up structure of mushrooms, turns them into nutrients. plant within the space of a Samba schools in Rio has created a biodegrad- and filled with a bed of moss “It’s used in Chernobyl to week at the company’s lab LAST battle in de Janeiro decided on able “living coffin” made of to stimulate decomposition. clean up the soil there from at the Technical University Thursday to delay Brazil’s a fungus, instead of wood, “Mycelium is nature’s the nuclear disaster”, Hen- of Delft by mixing mycelium most famous Carni- which it says can convert biggest recycler”, Bob drikx said. “And the same with wood chips in the mould SIGN UP COVID-era Paris val parade that would a decomposing human Hendrikx, the creator of the thing happens in our burial of a coffin. After the myce- normally have been held body into key nutrients for living coffin told Reuters. places, because the soil is lium has grown through the PARIS: Parisian commuters in their thousands reacted to in February 2021, as the plants. “It’s continuously looking for super polluted there and wood chips, the coffin is dried FOR the COVID-19 epidemic by ditching public transport and country grapples with The company, Loop, says food and transforming it into mycelium really likes metals, and has enough strength to walking or biking instead, but now they find themselves the second-deadliest its casket is made of myce- plant nutrition.” Mycelium oils and microplastics.” carry a weight of up to 200 fighting each other for space on the crowded streets. coronavirus outbreak in lium, the underground root also devours toxins and The coffin is grown like a kilograms (440 lb). AUCTION Twice daily during rush hour, throngs of cyclists teem the world. LOS ANGELES: Bas- through central Paris, in many places using cycle lanes Liesa, the independent safety ketball legend Kobe specially widened to encourage people to avoid cramming samba league, did not Bryant’s autograph, on a into the metro where they risk spreading the disease. give a new date for the hardwood section of the At junctions and pedestrian crossings, the flow of cy- festival, saying it would Space bubbles ease NY restaurant WOES court where he played clists intersects with a flow of people on foot.O n occasion, depend on a vaccine. his last game, is on the cyclists ride through red lights, or pedestrians step out “It’s increasingly dif- NEW YORK: Space bub- take a minute to set up and this world, eating in a bubble is committed to making auction block online and into a cycle lane without looking. Accidents and near- ficult to have Carnival bles are frothing up busi- take down, have become is about one of the best outdoor dining a permanent expected to fetch at least misses are common. “Cyclists are not so careful with without a vaccine,” Leisa ness at a New York bistro, an attraction at Café du experiences we can have,” option for the thousands $500,000 next week. The pedestrians. They just keep going,” said Nadine Lefebvre, President Jorge Castan- offering fresh air in safe Soleil on Manhattan’s Upper said Valerie Worthy, as she of restaurants that have four-panel floor piece, a 66-year-old retiree. “This morning on the pavement, a heira told journalists. capsules on sidewalks West Side, especially as the dined with two coworkers. embraced the concept since measuring 4 feet by 8 bicycle slalomed around me, because he could no longer “There is no way to have for customers on guard weather gets colder and “They have everything safe, the coronavirus pandemic feet (1.2 by 2.4 meters), pass on the road.” In September last year sensors in Paris Carnival without safety.” against the coronavirus. wetter in the fall. clean. Everything is six feet struck in the spring, Mayor is emblazoned with a detected an average of 55.8 cyclists per hour around the The plastic tents, which “With everything going on in apart. Love it.” New York Bill de Blasio said on Friday. huge “8,” one of two city; this September the figure is up to 97.2 per hour. numbers Bryant wore Paris city authorities have sent out marshals to keep during a sensational order in the cycle lanes, and they say they are imposing 20-year career with the on-the-spot fines of up to 135 euros ($157) for cyclists U.S. senators urge Byill Murra , the Los Angeles Lakers. It who break the rules. FREEZE graced one end of the FRAME National Basketball Netflix to drop Doobie Brothers and Association court for the ‘Smoke with freedom’ game on April 13, 2016, balancing a section with planned Chinese ‘ugly’ golf shirts his other jersey number “24” at the other end. Mexicans get high in LOS ANGELES : Musicians have long protested about “This is really among sci-fi series politicians using their songs during campaign rallies, but the most unique and in- actor Bill Murray has now found himself in the crosshairs spiring pieces we’ve ever marijuana garden LOS ANGELES: Five Republican U.S. senators have urged of a complaint by the Doobie Brothers. had,” said Dan Imler, NetflixI nc NFLX.O to reconsider plans to adapt a Chinese The idiosyncratic “Ghostbusters” star was hit with an vice president of direct science-fiction book trilogy into aT V series because they unconventional letter this week from the band over Mur- sales and consignments outside Senate said the author has defended the Chinese government’s ray’s use of the song “Listen to the Music” in ads for the for Heritage Auctions. treatment of Uighur Muslims. “The Three-Body Problem” actor’s line of whimsical golf apparel. “Most fans will remem- MEXICO CITY: A cannabis ‘garden’ sprouting next to Mexi- and two sequels were written by Chinese author Liu Cixin. “It’s a fine song.I know you agree because you keep ber that as one of, if not co’s Senate building has become a smoker’s paradise, with Netflix announced earlier this month that it was turning using it in ads for your Zero Hucks Given golf shirts. the, greatest farewell Mexican stoners lighting up joints without fear of arrest. the books into a live-action, English-language TV series However, given that you haven’t paid to use it, maybe you performance in the his- The cannabis seeds sowed in a plaza by Mexico’s Senate led by D.B Weiss and David Benioff, the creators of HBO should change the company name to ‘Zero Bucks Given,’” tory of sports.” by pro-marijuana activists in February have mushroomed megahit “Game of Thrones.” Liu serves as a consulting said the letter from Doobie Brothers attorney Peter Pa- Bryant scored 60 points into strikingly large plants, and become symbolic of a drive producer on the project. terno. “We’d almost be ok with it if the shirts weren’t so in the Lakers’ 101-96 to legalize marijuana in a nation riven by drugs-related vio- In a letter to Netflix, the senators pointed to comments damn ugly,” the letter continued. victory over the Utah lence. “Being able to smoke here (in the garden) in freedom by Liu to the New Yorker magazine in 2019 about China’s Representatives for Murray, who is known for playing Jazz. is very important to me,” said Marco Flores, a barista sitting clampdown on ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims in the world-weary characters in movies like “Groundhog Day” on a bench overlooking the Congress building. “After the final piece of Xinjiang region. and “Lost in Translation,” did not return a request for “I no longer go out on the streets in fear”. Mexico’s confetti had fallen, one “If anything, the government is helping their economy comment. Murray, 70, a keen golfer, owns the William Supreme Court has ruled that laws prohibiting cannabis of Kobe’s absolute last and trying to lift them out of poverty,” Liu said. “If you Murray clothing line, which describes itself as “where golf use are unconstitutional but the government is yet to draft acts before he walked were to loosen up the country a bit, the consequences meets irreverence and fun inspires style.” Its shirt designs legislation that would formally legalise marijuana, leaving off the professional would be terrifying.” The United States and human rights include pink flowers, shot glasses, frothy beer mugs and pot-smokers facing criminal charges if caught smoking. court was to add a large groups have criticized China’s treatment of the Uighurs. a shirt called Zero Hucks Given that pays tribute to literary But in the garden run by pro-marijuana activists, people signature to the center China’s foreign ministry has repeatedly denied the exis- hero Huckleberry Finn on a raft. “It seems like the only are allowed in for 30 minutes at a time and can light up in of the number 8,” said tence of internment camps in Xinjiang, calling the facili- person who uses our clients’ music without permission peace. Imler. ties vocational and educational institutions and accusing more than you do is Donald Trump,” Paterno said in his So far police appear to be turning a blind eye to the prac- “It’s one of the biggest what it calls anti-China forces of smearing its Xinjiang letter, referring to other bands he represents. The U.S. tice, though it’s unclear how long that will last. Kobe autographs we’ve policy. president has been hit with numerous lawsuits and cease “It’s great that they have opened a space for people who ever seen. It’s about a Walt Disney Co DIS.N was criticized by U.S. lawmakers and desist letters for playing music without permission are open to new experiences, or who want to find out a little recently for filming parts of “Mulan” in Xinjiang. during campaign rallies and official appearances. foot and a half long.” bit about this subject,” said Carlos Diaz, another smoker.