Category Archives: politics

MP Human Rights Commission To Remain Vacant After Acting Chairman Rajiv Tandon’s Tenure Ends On September 26

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**Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): MP Human Rights Commission Faces Vacancy Amid Growing Backlog**

The Madhya Pradesh Human Rights Commission (MPHRC) will have no members available to hear public grievances starting Saturday, as the tenure of acting chairman Rajiv Tandon ends on Friday. The post of chairman has remained vacant for an extended period, and with no members currently in the commission, public complaints risk going unheard.

In response to this situation, the state government has scheduled a meeting at 4 pm on September 29 to discuss new appointments to the commission. A committee responsible for these appointments includes the Chief Minister, Home Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the Speaker. This committee will consider the appointment of the new chairman as well as two additional members.

Sources indicate that AP Singh, the Principal Secretary of the Vidhan Sabha, is a leading candidate for one of the commission’s member positions. Singh’s tenure at the Vidhan Sabha ends on September 30, and since he is not receiving an extension, he may be appointed to the Human Rights Commission.

While the committee may select the chairman and two members, the final number of appointments will depend on the committee’s decisions.

**Over 4,600 Complaints Pending**

The MP Human Rights Commission currently has over 4,600 pending complaints. Since the end of Manohar Mamtani’s tenure as chairman, no successor has been appointed. Rajiv Tandon, initially a member of the commission, was designated as acting chairman, but with him being the sole commission member, the backlog of cases has continued to grow.

The upcoming appointments are crucial to ensure that public grievances are addressed promptly and effectively by the MPHRC.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-human-rights-commission-to-remain-vacant-after-acting-chairman-rajiv-tandons-tenure-ends-on-september-26

Ladakh Violence: 4 Dead In Protests, Calls For Dialogue And Non-Violence Amid Statehood Demand

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The violence that shook Leh on Wednesday is unfortunate. No grievance, however genuine, can justify the loss of four lives, the torching of public property, or the injury of dozens of police personnel and protesters. What Ladakh witnessed was tragic—and avoidable.

There is no denying that the people of Ladakh are exercised over their demand for statehood. This is not a sudden outburst but a long-standing aspiration, dating back to the days of Sheikh Abdullah. When Ladakh was carved out of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 and made a Union Territory, many saw it as only a halfway house to full statehood.

The Centre has indeed invested heavily in Ladakh’s infrastructure. Roads, communications, and basic facilities have improved significantly. Yet, for many Ladakhis, development is no substitute for political empowerment. Their demand is rooted in a sense of cultural identity and local control over land, jobs, and resources.

The question that remains is whether a sparsely populated region of 300,000 can realistically sustain a separate state. Leaders, past and present, have grappled with this. The late Kushak Bakula, the undisputed leader of Ladakhi Buddhists, did not extend his support to the idea of full statehood.

More recently, activist-engineer Sonam Wangchuk, whose innovative work brought him national recognition, has emerged as the face of the demand. His hunger strike gave visibility to the cause but also coincided with a disturbing outbreak of violence.

It is for the investigating agencies to determine whether he provoked the mob or whether frustration among unemployed youth spilled over into anger. He has denied responsibility and appealed for peace. Yet, history reminds us that true leadership requires the foresight to sense when passions are running beyond control. Mahatma Gandhi himself had called off agitations when they threatened to turn violent.

The tragedy should, therefore, serve as a sobering reminder: violence destroys more than it builds. The burning of offices and vehicles, the deaths of young men, and the tarnishing of an essentially peaceful movement will only make resolution harder.

Ladakh’s strength has always been in its composite culture—where Buddhists and Muslims, despite differing past aspirations, now speak in one voice for dignity and rights. That unity must not be allowed to fracture under the weight of anger.

Dialogue remains the only way forward. The committees already set up and the fresh round of talks scheduled should be pursued in good faith. Leaders must ensure that their followers do not stray from peaceful means. At the same time, citizens must recognise that negotiations, however slow, are more productive than street violence.

Ladakh is a land of unmatched beauty, strategic importance, and peace-loving people. Its future must rest on mutual trust, patient dialogue, and non-violence—the true path to peace and progress.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/analysis/ladakh-violence-4-dead-in-protests-calls-for-dialogue-and-non-violence-amid-statehood-demand

UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s Mission Shakti Empowers 1.91 Lakh Students Through Bank Visits

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Lucknow: The fifth phase of Mission Shakti for the year 2025-26, dedicated to the safety, dignity, and self-reliance of women and girls, created history on Thursday. Under the campaign inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on September 20, as many as 1.91 lakh students of classes 6 to 8 from Parishadiya schools and Kasturba Gandhi Residential Girls’ Schools visited bank branches across Uttar Pradesh.

The initiative was more than just an educational visit. It served as a strong foundation for the future economic self-reliance of young girls, where students were introduced to the nuances of banking systems, financial services, and digital banking. The primary aim of the program was to familiarize them with savings, banking processes, and digital services.

During the visits, students learned the process of opening a bank account, the use of passbooks, chequebooks, and ATM cards. They also practiced filling deposit and withdrawal slips and experienced digital tools like mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.

Focus on Savings and Investment

Special emphasis was laid on savings and investment schemes, helping students understand how small savings can lead to significant benefits in the future. Bank officials introduced them to basic investment options such as fixed deposits and recurring deposits.

Additionally, students were guided on financial security and online safety measures to conduct transactions responsibly.

Girls Show Enthusiasm and Curiosity

The visits were marked by the enthusiasm of the students, who actively interacted with bank officials. They asked questions with curiosity, which were patiently answered in simple language by the officials.

This exposure not only enriched their knowledge but also enhanced their confidence.

Key Learnings from the Visits

  • The process of opening a savings account and the required documents.
  • How to use a passbook, chequebook, and ATM card.
  • The procedure of filling deposit and withdrawal slips and the system of financial transactions.
  • Working of digital services such as mobile banking, UPI, and internet banking.
  • Importance and long-term benefits of savings and investment schemes.
  • Awareness about online fraud and precautions for ATM safety.

“During the auspicious days of Navratri, the bank visits by 1.91 lakh girls should not be seen merely as an activity. It is the foundation of tomorrow’s journey of economic empowerment for women. The aim of Mission Shakti is to provide daughters not only with knowledge but also with the power of self-reliance, and this initiative is a historic step in that direction.”

— Monika Rani, Director General, School Education

https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/up-cm-yogi-adityanaths-mission-shakti-empowers-191-lakh-students-through-bank-visits

Azim Premji Declines Karnataka CM’s Request To Allow Public Vehicles Through Wipro Campus

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**Wipro Founder Azim Premji Declines CM Siddaramaiah’s Request to Allow Vehicular Movement Through Company Campus**

*Bengaluru:* Wipro founder chairman Azim Premji has declined Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s request to allow limited vehicular movement through the company’s Sarjapur campus in Bengaluru. Premji stated that the campus is exclusive private property owned by a listed company and is not meant to serve as a public thoroughfare.

Premji explained that permitting public vehicular movement through the Wipro campus would pose “significant legal, governance, and statutory challenges.”

On September 19, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had written to Premji exploring “the possibility of allowing limited vehicular movement through the Wipro campus, subject to mutually agreed terms and necessary security considerations.” He noted that preliminary assessments by traffic and urban mobility experts indicated such a measure could reduce congestion on adjoining stretches of the Outer Ring Road (ORR) by nearly 30%, especially during peak office hours.

In his letter, Siddaramaiah emphasized, “Your support in this matter will go a long way in easing traffic bottlenecks, enhancing commuter experience, and contributing to a more efficient and livable Bengaluru. I would greatly appreciate it if your team could engage with our officials to work out a mutually acceptable plan at the earliest.”

Responding on Wednesday, Premji appreciated the Chief Minister’s leadership on addressing Bengaluru’s critical traffic congestion but highlighted the challenges involved.

“With respect to the specific suggestion of allowing public vehicular movement through our Sarjapur campus, we apprehend significant legal, governance, and statutory challenges since it is an exclusive private property owned by a listed company not intended for public thoroughfare,” he wrote.

He further added that the Sarjapur campus is a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) providing services to global customers. As a result, contractual obligations mandate stringent, non-negotiable access control norms for governance and compliance.

Premji noted that public vehicular movement through private property is unlikely to be an effective, sustainable long-term solution.

“Wipro nevertheless stands committed to partner with the Government of Karnataka to find a lasting solution for Bengaluru’s mobility challenges,” he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative and data-driven approach for the city’s best interests.

Highlighting the urgency of the traffic situation, especially along the Outer Ring Road — a major export-oriented economic hub — Premji acknowledged the complexity of the problem. “The problem’s complexity, stemming from multiple factors, suggests that there is unlikely to be a single point solution or a silver bullet to resolve it,” he observed.

He proposed commissioning a comprehensive, scientific study conducted by an entity with world-class expertise in urban transport management. This study would help develop a holistic roadmap featuring effective solutions for the short, medium, and long term.

“To demonstrate our commitment to being a part of the solution, Wipro will be pleased to engage in this process and underwrite a significant portion of the cost for this expert study,” Premji added.

The Outer Ring Road has long been plagued by severe traffic congestion and poor road conditions, making daily commutes challenging. The issue gained attention when BlackBuck CEO and co-founder Rajesh Yabaji publicly announced on social media platform ‘X’ that his company would relocate from the ORR (Bellandur area). He cited the average commute time increasing by one-and-a-half hours one way, along with roads full of potholes and dust.

Yabaji lamented the “lowest intent to get them rectified” and expressed skepticism about any improvement, stating, “Didn’t see any of this changing in the next 5 years.”

—

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/azim-premji-declines-karnataka-cms-request-to-allow-public-vehicles-through-wipro-campus

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav Says Caste Is Emotional Connect, Accuses BJP Of Fearing PDA Unity – VIDEO

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**Akhilesh Yadav Emphasizes Caste as Emotional Connect, Criticizes BJP Government in Uttar Pradesh**

*Lucknow:* Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday underscored caste as an emotional connection for backward communities, highlighting that reservation was granted on this basis. Referring to the Mandal Commission, he noted that it clearly stated backward classes are entitled to reservation due to caste-based discrimination.

Addressing a press conference at the SP office in Lucknow, Yadav criticized the Yogi Adityanath government’s recent order that caste should not be mentioned in FIRs, arrest warrants, or any official documents. He remarked, “The Harijan Act itself is based on caste. Action should be taken against those who purified houses with Ganga water because Dalits had entered them. I went to a temple where the priest allowed me, but BJP people still got the temple washed. They should explain why.”

Yadav claimed that the BJP is unsettled by the growing unity of PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) communities. “Ever since we released data on the representation of PDA in different departments, BJP has panicked and started humiliating people. Today, PDA trusts the Samajwadi Party,” he added.

Highlighting corruption, the SP president alleged that the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh has broken all records. “Even legislators are admitting on stage that there is a ten percent commission, but they do not speak further. Instead, they are distracting people with talk of cream, powder, and shampoo. We will also go to the market. The truth is that discussions are only with those making huge profits,” Yadav said.

On the occasion, Yadav welcomed several leaders into the Samajwadi Party, including Sudhir Chauhan, former MLA Chaudhary Amar Singh, Vidyasagar, and Lalji Bharti, who joined after leaving the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

Further, Yadav accused the BJP of conspiring against farmers by forcibly acquiring their land. “This government grabs land by ignoring laws, creating pressure, filing false cases, and cheating farmers. Development cannot come at the cost of injustice to farmers. When our government comes, compensation will be given by increasing the circle rate,” he declared.

Yadav’s sharp remarks come at a time when the Samajwadi Party is seeking to build momentum for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. By repeatedly invoking PDA, he is positioning himself as the political voice of backward castes, Dalits, and minorities, aiming to counter the BJP’s consolidation of upper castes and non-Yadav OBCs.

Analysts say Yadav’s emphasis on caste as an “emotional connect” signals a return to Mandal-era politics, which could energize the SP’s traditional base. His criticism of corruption and land acquisition is also aimed at appealing to farmers and small traders, sections that have shown signs of discontent with the ruling BJP.

With new leaders from the BSP joining the SP, Yadav is also attempting to broaden his party’s social coalition. The challenge, however, remains whether the SP can translate this strategy into a statewide narrative that resonates beyond its core support base.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/samajwadi-party-chief-akhilesh-yadav-says-caste-is-emotional-connect-accuses-bjp-of-fearing-pda-unity-video

JD Vance Trolls Joy Reid’s DEI Rant with A Meme That Goes Mega Viral [WATCH]

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Vice President JD Vance responded Wednesday to a viral segment featuring former MSNBC host Joy Reid by posting a lighthearted meme mocking her remarks about his background and education.

Reid, who was dismissed from MSNBC in February, made her comments during an interview with former CNN anchor Don Lemon. The conversation drew attention online as she linked Vance’s academic career to affirmative action policies and criticized his public stance on the issue.

The discussion began with Reid reflecting on the recent death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk before turning to criticism of Vance. She accused him of benefiting from affirmative action in the same way that she claimed women and minorities have historically relied on such programs. Reid singled out Vance’s admission to Yale Law School, suggesting it was not based solely on merit.

“Maybe the way that JD Vance got into Yale is because they were tired of just letting in White men from New York, from all the elite schools, and they wanted an Appalachian White. That’s how that man got into Yale, I promise you,” Reid said.

The former television host argued that affirmative action policies have empowered individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including racial minorities, people with disabilities, military veterans, and those from rural regions. She claimed these programs helped place people in spaces they might not otherwise reach.

Reid also cited herself as a personal example, arguing that affirmative action contributed to her own visibility in media. “Right-wingers, you have the ability to know who I am when I don’t know who most of y’all are, but you know me because affirmative action brought me your way,” she said. “Tell the Lord, thank you. Be grateful for all that God has given you. God knows what God is doing. She’s a smart, smart lady.”

Reid has previously criticized prominent White public figures. In recent commentary, she described Elvis Presley as a mediocre White man, a remark that also drew widespread online debate.

In response to the interview clip circulating on X, Vance posted a meme of himself, appearing to downplay Reid’s criticisms. The image quickly spread across social media, with his supporters creating and sharing memes of their own in solidarity.

The exchange highlighted ongoing debates about affirmative action and its role in shaping opportunities for individuals across different backgrounds. Reid framed her comments as part of a broader argument that such policies have benefited people beyond traditional categories, while Vance and his allies brushed aside her attack with humor online.

Neither Lemon nor Reid issued additional public statements following the viral spread of the interview. The Vice President’s meme response, however, ensured that the back-and-forth remained a trending topic on social media throughout the day.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/jd-vance-trolls-joy-reids-dei-rant-with-a-meme-that-goes-mega-viral-watch/

Ladakh protest: LG reviews security situation in Leh, calls for vigilance

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The situation in Ladakh has become extremely concerning amid ongoing protests, which have resulted in four people being killed and more than 80 others injured. The violence erupted during widespread clashes amid a shutdown called in the region.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. During the meeting, Gupta emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to maintain peace across Ladakh, as reported by news agency PTI.

The shutdown and protests were initiated by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in support of their demand to advance proposed talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the grant of statehood to Ladakh.

According to a statement posted on the social media platform X by the Lieutenant Governor’s office, a high-level security review meeting was held to assess the emerging situation across Ladakh. The meeting highlighted the necessity of seamless inter-agency coordination, proactive measures, and heightened vigilance to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the Union Territory.

Senior officers from the police, CRPF, and civil administration attended the meeting, discussing the prevailing law and order situation in detail.

Hundreds of protesters advocating for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. The protest escalated with demonstrators setting fire to the BJP office in Leh and several vehicles, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in the town and adjoining areas.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was incited by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The Modi-led party also suggested that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress in ongoing talks between the government and Ladakhi groups.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who had been leading a hunger strike in Leh over the twin demands, called off his hunger strike following the violence. He urged people to restore peace across Ladakh, according to PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-lg-reviews-security-situation-in-leh-calls-for-heightened-vigilance-23595753

PM Modi : AK-203 rifles production starts soon in UP, strengthens Make In India

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“Our armed forces aspire to achieve self-reliance and minimise dependence on external sources. To this end, we are dedicated to developing a robust defence infrastructure within India, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that every component is proudly ‘Made in India’,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He added that to support this vision, a thriving ecosystem is being fostered, with Uttar Pradesh playing a pivotal role in this initiative. In line with these efforts, the production of AK-203 rifles will soon commence in a factory established with assistance from Russia.

A Defence Corridor is also being developed in Uttar Pradesh, where manufacturing of BrahMos missiles and other weapon systems has already begun, the Prime Minister noted.

The trade show, held under the theme “Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here,” is scheduled from September 25 to 29. It has three core objectives: innovation, integration, and internationalisation. A three-pronged buyer strategy is targeting international buyers, domestic Business-to-Business (B2B) buyers, and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers, providing opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.

UPITS-2025 highlights the state’s diverse craft traditions, modern industries, robust MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs, all showcased on a single platform.

PM Modi also highlighted the benefits of the GST reforms, stating that ordinary families will see significant monthly savings. He criticised Congress over its criticism of the GST reform campaign, saying, “To hide their pre-2014 failures, Congress and its allies are lying to the people. We have increased the income and savings of the people of India. We are not going to stop here. As we continue to strengthen our economy, we will continue to reduce taxes. The process of GST reforms will go on continuously.”

In response, Congress pointed out that Narendra Modi had opposed the GST taxation model when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh remarked, “From 2006-2014, for eight years, only one CM opposed the GST, and that CM became the Prime Minister in 2014 and took a U-turn and emerged as a messiah of GST in 2017.”

The BJP responded by saying that the Congress-led government’s rule was marked by “only talks and no work,” accusing the party of resorting to “lies.”

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed/ agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pm-modi–ak203-rifles-production-to-start-in-uttar-pradesh-boosting-make-in-india-defence-drive-23595747

Ukraine restores diplomatic relations with Syria, Zelensky says

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**Ukraine Restores Diplomatic Relations with Syria, President Zelensky Announces**

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Syria.

In 2022, Ukraine severed ties with Syria after the ousted Syrian leader, Bashar al-Assad’s government, recognized large areas of Russian-occupied Ukraine as “independent” regions backed by Russia. This recognition led to a significant diplomatic rift between the two countries.

President Zelensky made the announcement during a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, Italy, on July 9, 2025.

The restoration of diplomatic relations marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy amid ongoing regional tensions. Further details on the implications of this decision are expected in the coming days.
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868489