Friday, January 30, 2009
NDTV uses Freedom of expression to gag freedom of expression
werent these the guys who cried hoarse when the government tried to put in some curbs on irresponsible reporting in the aftermath of the Mumbai attack? Now NDTV arm twists blogger into retracting article. Check this write up on the incident - http://shripriya.com/blog/2009/01/28/shame-on-ndtv-and-barkha-dutt/
Thursday, January 29, 2009
We should strive for Su-raj - L K ADVANI
Excellent speech by Advaniji -
http://www.lkadvani.in/eng/content/view/711/282/
I shall conclude with one thought. Netaji Bose had said to his countrymen: 'Tum mujhe khoon do; main tumhe aazadi doonga! (Give me blood, and I promise you freedom!) The times have changed, India has been azaad since 1947, and we need to make different kinds of sacrifices and commitments. Hence, if I were to rephrase Netaji’s clarion call, I would say that the call of all nationalistic and forward-looking political leaders to the people of India today should be: 'Tum humein samarthan do; hum tumhe sushaasan denge! (Give us your support, we promise you Good Governance.)
This is what my colleagues and I would humbly say when my party, the BJP, and my alliance, the NDA, go out to seek people’s support in the forthcoming elections to the 15th Lok Sabha.
We shall remind the people that India has ample resources, both natural and human, for making great strides forward. Indeed, wherever and whenever governments have governed well, they have produced good results. For example, the states in which the BJP has governments are far better governed than the Congress-ruled states. Similarly, now that the term of the UPA Government has almost come to an end, I can also claim that the track record of the NDA Government under Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was far superior to that of the incumbent government under Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Dr. Manmohan Singh.
We shall attend to India’s developmental challenges with a sense of urgency, bringing many innovative ideas to bear on our efforts. We shall be uncompromising in our fight against terrorism. We shall not tolerate corruption in governance, especially at the top echolons. I am saying this because if there is probility in public life at the top, it will have a positive influence down the line. With Good Governance, Development and Security as our mantras, we shall serve India in a manner that would befittingly honour the ideals of great patriot-warriors like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
http://www.lkadvani.in/eng/content/view/711/282/
I shall conclude with one thought. Netaji Bose had said to his countrymen: 'Tum mujhe khoon do; main tumhe aazadi doonga! (Give me blood, and I promise you freedom!) The times have changed, India has been azaad since 1947, and we need to make different kinds of sacrifices and commitments. Hence, if I were to rephrase Netaji’s clarion call, I would say that the call of all nationalistic and forward-looking political leaders to the people of India today should be: 'Tum humein samarthan do; hum tumhe sushaasan denge! (Give us your support, we promise you Good Governance.)
This is what my colleagues and I would humbly say when my party, the BJP, and my alliance, the NDA, go out to seek people’s support in the forthcoming elections to the 15th Lok Sabha.
We shall remind the people that India has ample resources, both natural and human, for making great strides forward. Indeed, wherever and whenever governments have governed well, they have produced good results. For example, the states in which the BJP has governments are far better governed than the Congress-ruled states. Similarly, now that the term of the UPA Government has almost come to an end, I can also claim that the track record of the NDA Government under Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was far superior to that of the incumbent government under Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Dr. Manmohan Singh.
We shall attend to India’s developmental challenges with a sense of urgency, bringing many innovative ideas to bear on our efforts. We shall be uncompromising in our fight against terrorism. We shall not tolerate corruption in governance, especially at the top echolons. I am saying this because if there is probility in public life at the top, it will have a positive influence down the line. With Good Governance, Development and Security as our mantras, we shall serve India in a manner that would befittingly honour the ideals of great patriot-warriors like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Govt's flip-flop on Mumbai attack has emboldened Pak: BJP
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/19DDF44B8705BAD46525754D00472B8C?OpenDocument
New Delhi, Jan 29 (PTI) In the wake of the reports in Pakistan that the Mumbai attacks were planned outside the country and so it was not liable to act on the dossier, the BJP today said the Indian government's flip-flop on the issue had emboldened the neighbouring country."It is the failure of the government of India to go further and get back the fugitives and have a trial in India (that has led to this attitude of Pakistan). I think the flip flop on the Indian side is visible and is emboldening the Pakistan government," BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters.He said the Indian government had submitted "incriminating" evidence to Pakistan about its involvement in attacks on Mumbai and many other places in the past."So a denial is unacceptable," Rudy said.He mentioned the controversial statement of union Minority Affairs Minister A R Antulay to argue his point. "The statement of A R Antulay raising doubts on ATS chief Hemant Karkare's death...I think this shroud of suspicion being created by Congress on the attacks in Mumbai is strengthening what is happening in Pakistan," the BJP MP said.The party demanded that the government take a firm stand on the issue and ask Pakistan to extradite those involved in the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai. PTI
New Delhi, Jan 29 (PTI) In the wake of the reports in Pakistan that the Mumbai attacks were planned outside the country and so it was not liable to act on the dossier, the BJP today said the Indian government's flip-flop on the issue had emboldened the neighbouring country."It is the failure of the government of India to go further and get back the fugitives and have a trial in India (that has led to this attitude of Pakistan). I think the flip flop on the Indian side is visible and is emboldening the Pakistan government," BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters.He said the Indian government had submitted "incriminating" evidence to Pakistan about its involvement in attacks on Mumbai and many other places in the past."So a denial is unacceptable," Rudy said.He mentioned the controversial statement of union Minority Affairs Minister A R Antulay to argue his point. "The statement of A R Antulay raising doubts on ATS chief Hemant Karkare's death...I think this shroud of suspicion being created by Congress on the attacks in Mumbai is strengthening what is happening in Pakistan," the BJP MP said.The party demanded that the government take a firm stand on the issue and ask Pakistan to extradite those involved in the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai. PTI
Advani asks countrymen to support security forces
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200901261481.htm
Putting aside all political differences, BJP leader L K Advani on Monday said his party has attempted to stand along with the UPA government in the country's fight against terror.
Hoisting the tricolour at his residence to mark Republic Day, he said "I urge the people of India to extend complete support to security forces who are engaged in a grim battle against terror".
He said the BJP has attempted to stand along with the UPA government in the country's fight against terror, putting aside all political differences.
The saffron party supported the Bills on formation of National Investigation Agency (NIA) and amendment to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the last Parliament session, he noted.
The flag-hoisting ceremony at Advani's residence was attended by BJP spokespersons Ravi Shankar Prasad and Prakash Javadekar. The senior leader's security team, including NSG commandos and para-military personnel, were also present on the occasion.
BJP President Rajnath Singh arrived soon after the flag hoisting.
Earlier, Advani attended the Republic Day parade at Rajpath along with his daughter Pratibha.
Putting aside all political differences, BJP leader L K Advani on Monday said his party has attempted to stand along with the UPA government in the country's fight against terror.
Hoisting the tricolour at his residence to mark Republic Day, he said "I urge the people of India to extend complete support to security forces who are engaged in a grim battle against terror".
He said the BJP has attempted to stand along with the UPA government in the country's fight against terror, putting aside all political differences.
The saffron party supported the Bills on formation of National Investigation Agency (NIA) and amendment to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the last Parliament session, he noted.
The flag-hoisting ceremony at Advani's residence was attended by BJP spokespersons Ravi Shankar Prasad and Prakash Javadekar. The senior leader's security team, including NSG commandos and para-military personnel, were also present on the occasion.
BJP President Rajnath Singh arrived soon after the flag hoisting.
Earlier, Advani attended the Republic Day parade at Rajpath along with his daughter Pratibha.
Chinese wants Congress to stay in Center!!!
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/KA29Df03.html
Any guesses why the Chinese funded asia times, wants the Congress to stay in power?
"Indeed they have, but another important factor was the government's speed in showing the door to controversial home minister Shivraj Patil and former Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh after the November 26, 2008, Mumbai terror attacks. It followed this up with a raft of tough new anti-terror laws, and in his first few days in office new Home Minister P C Chidambaram has steered through a record number of tough anti-terror laws in parliament. The steps have naturally bolstered the public image of the Congress-led government, which had been accused of being "soft" on terror. "
Speed in kicking out Sleeper Cell Patil??!! Are you kidding me, it tok 4 years of mismanagement.
They brought in a bunch of anti terror laws because they repealed the ones that were existing, thereby creating this problem. No prizes for solving a problem that was created by the UPA.
Another article from outside Bharat trying to influence what the people of Bharat should be doing. Time to be very very wary.
Any guesses why the Chinese funded asia times, wants the Congress to stay in power?
"Indeed they have, but another important factor was the government's speed in showing the door to controversial home minister Shivraj Patil and former Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh after the November 26, 2008, Mumbai terror attacks. It followed this up with a raft of tough new anti-terror laws, and in his first few days in office new Home Minister P C Chidambaram has steered through a record number of tough anti-terror laws in parliament. The steps have naturally bolstered the public image of the Congress-led government, which had been accused of being "soft" on terror. "
Speed in kicking out Sleeper Cell Patil??!! Are you kidding me, it tok 4 years of mismanagement.
They brought in a bunch of anti terror laws because they repealed the ones that were existing, thereby creating this problem. No prizes for solving a problem that was created by the UPA.
Another article from outside Bharat trying to influence what the people of Bharat should be doing. Time to be very very wary.
Indonesia Yoga Ban
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1874651,00.html
Ban on Yoga??!!
Whats next, ban the decimal number system beause it was invented in Bharat?
Ban on Yoga??!!
Whats next, ban the decimal number system beause it was invented in Bharat?
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Appaling traditions bar non-aryavartas from entering Jagannath Temple
http://www.orissadiary.com/Shownews.asp?id=10164
Truly abhorrent behaviour by the temple priests and a mideval tradition that prevents non-Aryavarta Hinduss from entering the Jagannatha Temple. Will the government take note. Will Hindu reform group take note.
Truly abhorrent behaviour by the temple priests and a mideval tradition that prevents non-Aryavarta Hinduss from entering the Jagannatha Temple. Will the government take note. Will Hindu reform group take note.
Explaining away terror - Vir Sanghvi
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=HomePage&id=6e16ba65-2bab-4dbe-80e1-c809b7e89ba3&&Headline=Explaining+away+terror
An excellent article. Some points to note -
1. Vir Sanghvi - "The distinguishing characteristic of 21st Century jihadi violence is that, unlike much of what has gone before, it has no clear political aim. When Osama bin Laden sent the planes into the twin towers, he did not think that America would collapse as a result. The British-born Pakistani, who carried out the London bombings did not think that Tony Blair would step down because of their actions. "
Sorry Sanghviji you are wrong here. He says that Jihad does not have any political objective. It certainly does. Jihad on the "infidels" is its own end. The objective IS the terror that is imposed. and to that end it has succeeded wherever it has occured. Proof and evidence below -
“The universalism of Islam, in its all-embracing creed, is imposed on the believers as a continuous process of warfare, psychological and political, if not strictly military. . . . The Jihad, accordingly, may be stated as a doctrine of a permanent state of war, not continuous fighting.” Majid Khadduri in War and Peace in the Law of Islam.
Further suggested reading - Quaranic Concept of War - S K Malik
2. Vir Sanghvi says - But two points are worth making. The first is that even in Muslim majority countries, education remains a problem. In last Sunday’s Times of India, M.J. Akbar provided some interesting statistics. There are only 500-odd universities in the Muslim world. India has nearly 8,500. Literacy in the developed world is 90 per cent as against 40 per cent in the Muslim world. High-tech goods and services constitute only 0.90 per cent of Pakistan’s exports. They add up to 68 per cent of Singapore’s exports.
Yes, but why is that? All factors remaining the same, what has Bharat forged ahead in many sectors while Pakistan remains behind?
I can go on nit picking a few more minutiea but that would be discrediting a good article. Soon the day will come when people will stop being politically correct and call Islam what it is - a blueprint for creation of a violent and backward society shorn of any personal freedoms and lacking any inclination for progress.
An excellent article. Some points to note -
1. Vir Sanghvi - "The distinguishing characteristic of 21st Century jihadi violence is that, unlike much of what has gone before, it has no clear political aim. When Osama bin Laden sent the planes into the twin towers, he did not think that America would collapse as a result. The British-born Pakistani, who carried out the London bombings did not think that Tony Blair would step down because of their actions. "
Sorry Sanghviji you are wrong here. He says that Jihad does not have any political objective. It certainly does. Jihad on the "infidels" is its own end. The objective IS the terror that is imposed. and to that end it has succeeded wherever it has occured. Proof and evidence below -
“The universalism of Islam, in its all-embracing creed, is imposed on the believers as a continuous process of warfare, psychological and political, if not strictly military. . . . The Jihad, accordingly, may be stated as a doctrine of a permanent state of war, not continuous fighting.” Majid Khadduri in War and Peace in the Law of Islam.
Further suggested reading - Quaranic Concept of War - S K Malik
2. Vir Sanghvi says - But two points are worth making. The first is that even in Muslim majority countries, education remains a problem. In last Sunday’s Times of India, M.J. Akbar provided some interesting statistics. There are only 500-odd universities in the Muslim world. India has nearly 8,500. Literacy in the developed world is 90 per cent as against 40 per cent in the Muslim world. High-tech goods and services constitute only 0.90 per cent of Pakistan’s exports. They add up to 68 per cent of Singapore’s exports.
Yes, but why is that? All factors remaining the same, what has Bharat forged ahead in many sectors while Pakistan remains behind?
I can go on nit picking a few more minutiea but that would be discrediting a good article. Soon the day will come when people will stop being politically correct and call Islam what it is - a blueprint for creation of a violent and backward society shorn of any personal freedoms and lacking any inclination for progress.
Take up cause of European Roma facing apartheid
http://www.centralchronicle.com/20090117/1701322.htm
Emphasizing the maltreatment of Roma people of Europe, Hindus have strongly urged His Holiness Pope Benedictus to immediately and openly embrace their cause.
Rajan Zed, acclaimed Hindu and Indo-American leader, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Roma were reportedly facing blatant injustice and discrimination right under Pope's nose in Europe. Being the biggest religious leader in the world, it was Pope's moral obligation to make efforts to stop human rights violations suffered by around ten million European Roma.
Emphasizing the maltreatment of Roma people of Europe, Hindus have strongly urged His Holiness Pope Benedictus to immediately and openly embrace their cause.
Rajan Zed, acclaimed Hindu and Indo-American leader, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Roma were reportedly facing blatant injustice and discrimination right under Pope's nose in Europe. Being the biggest religious leader in the world, it was Pope's moral obligation to make efforts to stop human rights violations suffered by around ten million European Roma.
How Gujarat has become ‘Vibrant’
http://blog.lkadvani.in/uncategorized/how-gujarat-has-become-%e2%80%98vibrant%e2%80%99#comments
Makar Sankranti (January 14) goes by different names in different parts of our country. In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal. In Assam, it brings song, dance and joy in the name of Bihu. In Punjab and in several other parts of north India, it comes, a day or two in advance, as Lohri. People gather around ceremonial log-fire to warm themselves up on a cold night, singing Lohri songs and exchanging popcorn, peanuts, crystal sugar and sweets made out of til (sesame seeds). Every year my family has Lohri celebration at home, sharing our joy with friends, office colleagues and security personnel.
Makar Sankranti reminds me of the kite festival in Gujarat, the state which I represent in Parliament. On this day, the deep blue sky in Ahmedabad and other cities and towns of the state becomes a canvas for a vibrant splash of colours as tens of thousands of people climb their rooftops to celebrate the kite festival. Indeed, the International Kite Festival in Gujarat has become a major tourist attraction.
Since 2003, the word ‘Vibrant’ has become associated with Gujarat in yet another manner, enhancing the national and international reputation of the state. Consider the fact that even in the current year of economic slowdown, the two-day Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors’ Summit 2009, which concluded in Ahmedabad on January 13, attracted promised investments of over Rs. 12 lakh crore. More than 8,500 Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the State government and the intending investors. These have the potential to create over 25 lakh additional employment opportunities. While the last three editions of the ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ summit in 2003, 2005 and 2007 together received promises for investment of over Rs 6.34 lakh crore, the 2009 summit alone had inked MoUs to invest 12 lakh crore.
Vibrant Gujarat 2009
This is how The Hindu newspaper reported it:
“The Chief Minister’s announcement was greeted with resounding noise of clapping with even foreign delegations and prominent industrialists from the country and abroad giving Mr. Narendra Modi a standing ovation for the achievement by a State in attracting industrial investments at a time when the global economy was facing recession.”
A file photograph of L.K. Advani, BJP President Rajnath Singh and Narendra Modi, when the latter was sworn in as Gujarat's Chief Minister after a landslide win in the state Assembly elections in December 2007.
What accounts for Narendrabhai’s success? The answer is simple: he exemplifies the BJP’s commitment to Good Governance, Development and Security.
Gujarat has not only registered the fastest economic growth in the country, but also registered impressive successes in social development. The problem of drinking water, severe and perennial in many parts of the state, has been largely solved. The widely applauded Jyotirgram scheme has succeeded in providing 24×7 electricity supply to all the villages and hamlets in the state. School dropout rate, including in tribal areas, has drastically come down. Gujarat is a leader in slum improvement and urban renewal.
What gives me special satisfaction is that Gujarat has succeeded in brining down political and bureaucratic corruption in a way that is truly a model for other governments.
After the BJP’s success in winning a renewed mandate in the December 2007 Gujarat assembly elections, I had commented as follows:
“The Congress and its pseudo-secular supporters had sought to convert these elections into some kind of a national referendum on ‘communalism vs secularism’. Needless to say, they failed miserably in their plans.
“I consider the outcome of the Gujarat polls significant for another reason. It showed how a leader with integrity, courage and competence could count on people’s support to beat back a personalised campaign of vilification. I cannot think of any other leader in Indian politics in the past sixty years who was as viciously, consistently and persistently maligned, both nationally and internationally, as Modi had been since 2002. Sonia Gandhi even went to the extent of calling him ‘maut ka saudagar’ (merchant of death). I am happy that the people of Gujarat have given a fitting reply to the practitioners of this kind of toxic politics.”
It is amusing to find these days some sections of the media hostile to the BJP labouring hard to discern even in the Vibrant Gujarat event evidence of differences in the BJP.
I can only recall what I had said at a New Delhi press conference I had addressed shortly after our splendid victory in the Gujarat Assembly polls.
A lady correspondent had posed me the question. “Don’t you think Narendra Bhai is now becoming larger than the party? My reply to her query was: “It often happens in a family that a younger member records an achievement which no one else has made earlier. This only makes the whole family proud. The family never feels diminished on that account.”
Makar Sankranti (January 14) goes by different names in different parts of our country. In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal. In Assam, it brings song, dance and joy in the name of Bihu. In Punjab and in several other parts of north India, it comes, a day or two in advance, as Lohri. People gather around ceremonial log-fire to warm themselves up on a cold night, singing Lohri songs and exchanging popcorn, peanuts, crystal sugar and sweets made out of til (sesame seeds). Every year my family has Lohri celebration at home, sharing our joy with friends, office colleagues and security personnel.
Makar Sankranti reminds me of the kite festival in Gujarat, the state which I represent in Parliament. On this day, the deep blue sky in Ahmedabad and other cities and towns of the state becomes a canvas for a vibrant splash of colours as tens of thousands of people climb their rooftops to celebrate the kite festival. Indeed, the International Kite Festival in Gujarat has become a major tourist attraction.
Since 2003, the word ‘Vibrant’ has become associated with Gujarat in yet another manner, enhancing the national and international reputation of the state. Consider the fact that even in the current year of economic slowdown, the two-day Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors’ Summit 2009, which concluded in Ahmedabad on January 13, attracted promised investments of over Rs. 12 lakh crore. More than 8,500 Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the State government and the intending investors. These have the potential to create over 25 lakh additional employment opportunities. While the last three editions of the ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ summit in 2003, 2005 and 2007 together received promises for investment of over Rs 6.34 lakh crore, the 2009 summit alone had inked MoUs to invest 12 lakh crore.
Vibrant Gujarat 2009
This is how The Hindu newspaper reported it:
“The Chief Minister’s announcement was greeted with resounding noise of clapping with even foreign delegations and prominent industrialists from the country and abroad giving Mr. Narendra Modi a standing ovation for the achievement by a State in attracting industrial investments at a time when the global economy was facing recession.”
A file photograph of L.K. Advani, BJP President Rajnath Singh and Narendra Modi, when the latter was sworn in as Gujarat's Chief Minister after a landslide win in the state Assembly elections in December 2007.
What accounts for Narendrabhai’s success? The answer is simple: he exemplifies the BJP’s commitment to Good Governance, Development and Security.
Gujarat has not only registered the fastest economic growth in the country, but also registered impressive successes in social development. The problem of drinking water, severe and perennial in many parts of the state, has been largely solved. The widely applauded Jyotirgram scheme has succeeded in providing 24×7 electricity supply to all the villages and hamlets in the state. School dropout rate, including in tribal areas, has drastically come down. Gujarat is a leader in slum improvement and urban renewal.
What gives me special satisfaction is that Gujarat has succeeded in brining down political and bureaucratic corruption in a way that is truly a model for other governments.
After the BJP’s success in winning a renewed mandate in the December 2007 Gujarat assembly elections, I had commented as follows:
“The Congress and its pseudo-secular supporters had sought to convert these elections into some kind of a national referendum on ‘communalism vs secularism’. Needless to say, they failed miserably in their plans.
“I consider the outcome of the Gujarat polls significant for another reason. It showed how a leader with integrity, courage and competence could count on people’s support to beat back a personalised campaign of vilification. I cannot think of any other leader in Indian politics in the past sixty years who was as viciously, consistently and persistently maligned, both nationally and internationally, as Modi had been since 2002. Sonia Gandhi even went to the extent of calling him ‘maut ka saudagar’ (merchant of death). I am happy that the people of Gujarat have given a fitting reply to the practitioners of this kind of toxic politics.”
It is amusing to find these days some sections of the media hostile to the BJP labouring hard to discern even in the Vibrant Gujarat event evidence of differences in the BJP.
I can only recall what I had said at a New Delhi press conference I had addressed shortly after our splendid victory in the Gujarat Assembly polls.
A lady correspondent had posed me the question. “Don’t you think Narendra Bhai is now becoming larger than the party? My reply to her query was: “It often happens in a family that a younger member records an achievement which no one else has made earlier. This only makes the whole family proud. The family never feels diminished on that account.”
Advani to be the next Prime Minister: Modi
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/23147C530B06584665257541003EF4F9?OpenDocument
Vadodara, Jan 17 (PTI) Rubbishing speculation that he was involved in a leadership tussle in BJP, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today said L K Advani "will be the prime minister" after the next Lok Sabha elections."After the Lok Sabha elections, BJP will come to power and L K Advani will be the prime minister," Modi said addressing a gathering in Halol town after inaugurating three day-care centres.Without naming anybody, Modi accused a "tolki (a mocking reference to a group of people) sitting in Delhi" for deliberately raising the controversy on the issue of BJP's prime-ministerial candidate to divert attention from the "success" of Vibrant Gujarat global investors summit."After the development works we have undertaken in Gujarat, Delhi now recognises that a BJP government can come to power at the Centre after the upcoming elections. Our leader L K Advani will be the prime minister and under his leadership even the country will witness rapid growth like Gujarat," Modi said.The BJP has projected Advani as its prime ministerial candidate.However, Modi's praise as Prime Ministerial material by industry captains including Anil Ambani and Sunil Mittal on the sidelines of investors summit in Ahmedabad recently led to a flutter in the BJP with the saffron party terming it as a complement to the party's senior leaders and its chief ministers.Modi said as many as 8,500 MoUs projecting an investment of Rs 12 lakh crores were signed during the summit. PTI
Vadodara, Jan 17 (PTI) Rubbishing speculation that he was involved in a leadership tussle in BJP, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today said L K Advani "will be the prime minister" after the next Lok Sabha elections."After the Lok Sabha elections, BJP will come to power and L K Advani will be the prime minister," Modi said addressing a gathering in Halol town after inaugurating three day-care centres.Without naming anybody, Modi accused a "tolki (a mocking reference to a group of people) sitting in Delhi" for deliberately raising the controversy on the issue of BJP's prime-ministerial candidate to divert attention from the "success" of Vibrant Gujarat global investors summit."After the development works we have undertaken in Gujarat, Delhi now recognises that a BJP government can come to power at the Centre after the upcoming elections. Our leader L K Advani will be the prime minister and under his leadership even the country will witness rapid growth like Gujarat," Modi said.The BJP has projected Advani as its prime ministerial candidate.However, Modi's praise as Prime Ministerial material by industry captains including Anil Ambani and Sunil Mittal on the sidelines of investors summit in Ahmedabad recently led to a flutter in the BJP with the saffron party terming it as a complement to the party's senior leaders and its chief ministers.Modi said as many as 8,500 MoUs projecting an investment of Rs 12 lakh crores were signed during the summit. PTI
Thursday, January 15, 2009
A case for guns
http://regularfolksunited.com/index.php?tab=article_view&article_id=619
Last spring, while preparing for their murderous attack on Mumbai, ten terrorists dutifully took their driver’s licenses and proofs of residency to their nearest gun licensing office to ensure that their rifles and handguns were legally registered with the appropriate authorities.Seriously? Of course not – its ludicrous. Criminals don’t stand in line to register weapons, and neither do terrorists. Only the law abiding do, unless – as in the case of India – they can’t.Although private gun ownership in India is allowable by law, bewildering licensing restrictions, bureaucratic red tape, and government policy that makes guns and ammunition prohibitively expensive renders gun ownership unattainable for most people— and provided the Mumbai terrorists unfettered access to their victims.
Last spring, while preparing for their murderous attack on Mumbai, ten terrorists dutifully took their driver’s licenses and proofs of residency to their nearest gun licensing office to ensure that their rifles and handguns were legally registered with the appropriate authorities.Seriously? Of course not – its ludicrous. Criminals don’t stand in line to register weapons, and neither do terrorists. Only the law abiding do, unless – as in the case of India – they can’t.Although private gun ownership in India is allowable by law, bewildering licensing restrictions, bureaucratic red tape, and government policy that makes guns and ammunition prohibitively expensive renders gun ownership unattainable for most people— and provided the Mumbai terrorists unfettered access to their victims.
Bharateeyas need Guns
http://www.cnsnews.com/public/content/article.aspx?RsrcID=40567
India’s strict gun laws are partly to blame for the success of the terrorist attack in Mumbai, according to the head of an Indian gun rights group and a U.S. expert who has examined the impact of gun laws on crime and terrorism. Abhijeet Singh, founder of Indians for Guns, told CNSNews.com Tuesday that if the citizens of Mumbai had been allowed to carry guns, terrorists would not have killed as many people as they did--and might have been deterred from attacking in the first place.
India’s strict gun laws are partly to blame for the success of the terrorist attack in Mumbai, according to the head of an Indian gun rights group and a U.S. expert who has examined the impact of gun laws on crime and terrorism. Abhijeet Singh, founder of Indians for Guns, told CNSNews.com Tuesday that if the citizens of Mumbai had been allowed to carry guns, terrorists would not have killed as many people as they did--and might have been deterred from attacking in the first place.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Islamic Jurisprudence alert001
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com./Girls_over_10-12_years_are_eligible_for_marriage/articleshow/3979207.cms
'Girls over 10 or 12 years are eligible for marriage'
The powerful Grand Mufti Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh said in a speech late on Monday that Islamic Sharia law allows the practice of pre-teen girls getting married, and that critics of the practice were doing the girls "an injustice," reports said.
'Girls over 10 or 12 years are eligible for marriage'
The powerful Grand Mufti Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh said in a speech late on Monday that Islamic Sharia law allows the practice of pre-teen girls getting married, and that critics of the practice were doing the girls "an injustice," reports said.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Family Matters - Update 2
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Priyanka_entering_poll_fray_is_beneficial_Cong/articleshow/3971169.cms
Congies say - Priyanka entrering the polls will be "beneficial".
To whom is the question.
Congies say - Priyanka entrering the polls will be "beneficial".
To whom is the question.
SP- Congress marriage woes
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/SP_continues_tirade_against_Cong/articleshow/3974482.cms
Congress response would be interesting to watch now that SP chief has himself taken up cudgels against Congress and Centre's actions on issues ranging from CBI case against him to dragging its feet on seat-sharing to media reports that they were batting for a corporate house. Congress has been playing cool to the SP aggression, having let go all its bouncers without even feeling the need to raise the bat, often leaving the UP-based outfit exasperated.
SP chief came out strongly against media reports quoting Congress sources that the real reason for SP's anger was the CBI case against him and the non-allocation of gas for a power project. "I have been in jail for 19 months during Emergency and still did not bow before Indira Gandhi. I have enough evidence to prove my innocence, which if made public, could shock Congress," he said, reading out a three-page statement before the media.
Congress response would be interesting to watch now that SP chief has himself taken up cudgels against Congress and Centre's actions on issues ranging from CBI case against him to dragging its feet on seat-sharing to media reports that they were batting for a corporate house. Congress has been playing cool to the SP aggression, having let go all its bouncers without even feeling the need to raise the bat, often leaving the UP-based outfit exasperated.
SP chief came out strongly against media reports quoting Congress sources that the real reason for SP's anger was the CBI case against him and the non-allocation of gas for a power project. "I have been in jail for 19 months during Emergency and still did not bow before Indira Gandhi. I have enough evidence to prove my innocence, which if made public, could shock Congress," he said, reading out a three-page statement before the media.
BJP to emulate Gujarat if voted to the center.
http://www.hindu.com/2009/01/12/stories/2009011259971100.htm
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha L.K. Advani on Saturday promised firm action to deal with both terrorism and climatic change due to global warming if the BJP and the NDA were voted back to power at the Centre in the coming Parliamentary elections.
Mr. Advani said a BJP-led Central government would follow the “Gujarat pattern of development” and replicate the model of Chief Minister Narendra Modi all over the country.
Inaugurating the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) here, Mr.Advani said that while terrorism was the “most extreme and inhuman form of violence” which the government must deal with firmly, the “destruction of environment” was another form of terrorism.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha L.K. Advani on Saturday promised firm action to deal with both terrorism and climatic change due to global warming if the BJP and the NDA were voted back to power at the Centre in the coming Parliamentary elections.
Mr. Advani said a BJP-led Central government would follow the “Gujarat pattern of development” and replicate the model of Chief Minister Narendra Modi all over the country.
Inaugurating the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) here, Mr.Advani said that while terrorism was the “most extreme and inhuman form of violence” which the government must deal with firmly, the “destruction of environment” was another form of terrorism.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Indian preists return to Pashupathinath
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Indians_Abroad/Indian_priests_return_to_Pashupatinath/articleshow/3957102.cms
"It is a victory for Hindus worldwide," said Bharat Jangam, a social activist and regular visitor to the temple, who was among the three groups that had asked Nepal's Supreme Court to intervene after the Indian priests appointed at the shrine nearly a decade ago were replaced by Nepali priests under the new Maoist government.
"It is a victory for Hindus worldwide," said Bharat Jangam, a social activist and regular visitor to the temple, who was among the three groups that had asked Nepal's Supreme Court to intervene after the Indian priests appointed at the shrine nearly a decade ago were replaced by Nepali priests under the new Maoist government.
Dhimmin Hindu alert
http://news.chennaionline.com/newsitem.aspx?NEWSID=9560944b-d692-4b91-a17b-a6a671688887&CATEGORYNAME=CHN
Dhimmi Hindus celebrate Muharram.
Dhimmi Hindus celebrate Muharram.
Temple Protection demand by Hindus
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Goa/Hindus_demand_temples_to_be_protected/articleshow/3961636.cms
Over 20 bus loads of members of various Hindu organisations descended on SAG ground to hear their leaders condemn the recent series of temple desecrations in the state.
Over 20 bus loads of members of various Hindu organisations descended on SAG ground to hear their leaders condemn the recent series of temple desecrations in the state.
Sufism and Sodomy -
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/JH12Ak03.html
Islamic mysticism (Sufism) of the High Middle Ages is the only case in which a mainstream current of a major world religion preached pederasty as a path to spiritual enlightenment. A vast literature documents this, and a great deal of it is available online. Sufi adoration of pre-pubescent boys “persisted in many Islamic countries until very recent times,” according to the Orientalist Helmut Ritter.[3] The Afghan penchant for dancing boys in female costume, shown in the 2007 film The Kite Runner, is the last vestige of a Sufi practice that has been long suppressed by both the Sunni and Shi’ite branches of Islam. Sufism has a reputation in Western pop culture as a kinder and gentler branch of Islam. It is not a different kind of Islam, but rather Islam’s mystical practice, to which the adage applies, “by their fruits shall ye know them.”
Islamic mysticism (Sufism) of the High Middle Ages is the only case in which a mainstream current of a major world religion preached pederasty as a path to spiritual enlightenment. A vast literature documents this, and a great deal of it is available online. Sufi adoration of pre-pubescent boys “persisted in many Islamic countries until very recent times,” according to the Orientalist Helmut Ritter.[3] The Afghan penchant for dancing boys in female costume, shown in the 2007 film The Kite Runner, is the last vestige of a Sufi practice that has been long suppressed by both the Sunni and Shi’ite branches of Islam. Sufism has a reputation in Western pop culture as a kinder and gentler branch of Islam. It is not a different kind of Islam, but rather Islam’s mystical practice, to which the adage applies, “by their fruits shall ye know them.”
Friday, January 9, 2009
We can’t accuse Pakistan agencies without proof: U.S
http://www.hindu.com/2009/01/10/stories/2009011059121200.htm
Speaking at a farewell luncheon for him organised by Confederation of India Industry here on Friday, U.S. Ambassador to India David Mulford sought to differentiate the American stand from the one articulated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram of some Pakistani agencies having quarterbacked the attack in view of its sophistication.
Speaking at a farewell luncheon for him organised by Confederation of India Industry here on Friday, U.S. Ambassador to India David Mulford sought to differentiate the American stand from the one articulated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram of some Pakistani agencies having quarterbacked the attack in view of its sophistication.
Rahul Nehrus Birthright
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Rahul+Gandhi%E2%80%99s+birthright&artid=MjftawJFZVw=&SectionID=RRQemgLywPI=&MainSectionID=RRQemgLywPI=&SEO=Manmohan+Singh,+rahul+gandhi&SectionName=XQcp6iFoWTvPHj2dDBzTNA==
Considering the belief in the Congress that the Nehru-Gandhi
family has almost a birthright to the prime minister’s position, it is hardly surprising that Rahul Gandhi’s name is occasionally mentioned in this context. Ever since Sonia Gandhi declined to accept the post, it is her son who is deemed to be the next member of the dynasty to don the mantle. If Pranab Mukherjee’s remark that, after Rajiv Gandhi, it is Rahul who will be the next young prime minister has attracted more than the usual attention, the reason is that the external affairs minister is known to weigh his words with care. Had it been Arjun Singh
or Digvijay Singh, the suspicion would have been that they were trying to curry favour with the party’s first family. But the person who is nearly always the automatic choice to head a group of ministers is in a different category.
Considering the belief in the Congress that the Nehru-Gandhi
family has almost a birthright to the prime minister’s position, it is hardly surprising that Rahul Gandhi’s name is occasionally mentioned in this context. Ever since Sonia Gandhi declined to accept the post, it is her son who is deemed to be the next member of the dynasty to don the mantle. If Pranab Mukherjee’s remark that, after Rajiv Gandhi, it is Rahul who will be the next young prime minister has attracted more than the usual attention, the reason is that the external affairs minister is known to weigh his words with care. Had it been Arjun Singh
or Digvijay Singh, the suspicion would have been that they were trying to curry favour with the party’s first family. But the person who is nearly always the automatic choice to head a group of ministers is in a different category.
Tamasha over Pak culpability - Swapan Dasgupta
http://dailypioneer.com/147739/Tamasha-over-Pak-culpability.html
"There are two wildly divergent debates raging in the world. The first, centred on the Israeli attacks on Hamas-run terrorist bases in Gaza, is about the definition of the term “proportionate”. Article 51 of the UN Charter accords to every nation the right to engage in self-defence against armed attacks — there is no distinction made between State and non-State aggressors. However, international law also stipulates that any retaliation must satisfy the principle of proportionality. Has Israeli targeted air strikes in crowded localities in Gaza which has produced nearly 420 casualties been disproportionate? Alternatively, should proportionality be measured by the risk posed by the aggressor rather than the number of civilians killed? After all, the Hamas is habituated to using women and children as human shields to maximise civilian casualties."
"There are two wildly divergent debates raging in the world. The first, centred on the Israeli attacks on Hamas-run terrorist bases in Gaza, is about the definition of the term “proportionate”. Article 51 of the UN Charter accords to every nation the right to engage in self-defence against armed attacks — there is no distinction made between State and non-State aggressors. However, international law also stipulates that any retaliation must satisfy the principle of proportionality. Has Israeli targeted air strikes in crowded localities in Gaza which has produced nearly 420 casualties been disproportionate? Alternatively, should proportionality be measured by the risk posed by the aggressor rather than the number of civilians killed? After all, the Hamas is habituated to using women and children as human shields to maximise civilian casualties."
Kasab’s parents missing from their home
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/kasabs-parents-missing-from-their-home-burney/408682/
Thanks to Burneyji for highlighting this.
Thanks to Burneyji for highlighting this.
The depths Indian democracy has
http://www.rediff.com/news/2009/jan/08-the-depths-indian-democracy-has-fallen-to.htm
Makes for some interesting reading. The sad part is not that everything Mr Shenoy says is true, the sad part is that most of us feel nothing after reading this anymore. Till the next "Mumbai" of course.
Makes for some interesting reading. The sad part is not that everything Mr Shenoy says is true, the sad part is that most of us feel nothing after reading this anymore. Till the next "Mumbai" of course.
Has Pakistan Outwitted India?
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1870269,00.html
Despite its outrage over November's Mumbai terrorist attacks, which originated in Pakistan, India has been restrained in its response. Fears that the fallout from the massacre could spark a military confrontation between the hostile, nuclear-armed neighbors proved unfounded, and even India's diplomatic efforts to shame Pakistan and pressure the nation to act against militants operating from its soil have been viewed in India as timid and incoherent. Six weeks after the attacks, the issue has been bumped off the global diplomatic agenda by the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation in Gaza, and India's options are shrinking. In the eyes of many in India who take a dim view of Islamabad's handling of cross-border terrorism, the game is going in Pakistan's favor.
Despite its outrage over November's Mumbai terrorist attacks, which originated in Pakistan, India has been restrained in its response. Fears that the fallout from the massacre could spark a military confrontation between the hostile, nuclear-armed neighbors proved unfounded, and even India's diplomatic efforts to shame Pakistan and pressure the nation to act against militants operating from its soil have been viewed in India as timid and incoherent. Six weeks after the attacks, the issue has been bumped off the global diplomatic agenda by the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation in Gaza, and India's options are shrinking. In the eyes of many in India who take a dim view of Islamabad's handling of cross-border terrorism, the game is going in Pakistan's favor.
What's the Hindu take on biofuels?
http://religionblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/01/whats-the-hindu-take-on-biofue.html
Interesting question. Voice your opinion.
Interesting question. Voice your opinion.
And now for some funny stuff
http://www.slate.com/id/2208198
This stuff is rib tickling funny.
"My big Bollywood break came while I was walking down a side street in Mumbai, talking on a cell phone to a man named Imran.
"How many people with you?" he asked."Just me.""No problem. You got long hair, short hair?""No hair," I said."No problem. You how old?"Forty-four."
"No problem. OK, meet tomorrow at the Bandra train station, west ticket counter. Eight a.m., work till 8 p.m. Give you food, makeup, costume, transport. Pay 500 rupees. Put you in Bollywood movie, OK?"
You could call Imran a freelance talent scout for the film industry of India, except—as our interview suggests—he's not looking for talent. He's looking for white people. Bollywood requires a few dozen Western extras every day, to add vérité to crowd scenes in ostensibly exotic locales. Imran's job is to find foreigners and chaperon them to Film City, an expansive badlands of rocks and shrubs at the northern edge of this megalopolis, where most of India's movies are made. I got his phone number through a reporter in Delhi, but usually he finds you, trolling local tourist sites."
This stuff is rib tickling funny.
"My big Bollywood break came while I was walking down a side street in Mumbai, talking on a cell phone to a man named Imran.
"How many people with you?" he asked."Just me.""No problem. You got long hair, short hair?""No hair," I said."No problem. You how old?"Forty-four."
"No problem. OK, meet tomorrow at the Bandra train station, west ticket counter. Eight a.m., work till 8 p.m. Give you food, makeup, costume, transport. Pay 500 rupees. Put you in Bollywood movie, OK?"
You could call Imran a freelance talent scout for the film industry of India, except—as our interview suggests—he's not looking for talent. He's looking for white people. Bollywood requires a few dozen Western extras every day, to add vérité to crowd scenes in ostensibly exotic locales. Imran's job is to find foreigners and chaperon them to Film City, an expansive badlands of rocks and shrubs at the northern edge of this megalopolis, where most of India's movies are made. I got his phone number through a reporter in Delhi, but usually he finds you, trolling local tourist sites."
Omar Abdullah admits to serious "ailment" promises cure
http://www.zeenews.com/states/2009-01-08/497191news.html
"Jammu and Kashmir's new Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday promised to look into the seriousness of regional "discrimination" raised by the people and termed it as an "ailment that required proper treatment." "There have been allegations of regional discrimination by one or the other region. The ailment will have to be diagnosed and treated properly," Omar told deputations of people during public-meetings here. "
Wasnt this the guy who said - "Hamara zameen hai, ladenge, marte dam tak ladenge". Its not your zameen Omar and what you are accusing the people of Jammu of, you are guilty of.
"Jammu and Kashmir's new Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday promised to look into the seriousness of regional "discrimination" raised by the people and termed it as an "ailment that required proper treatment." "There have been allegations of regional discrimination by one or the other region. The ailment will have to be diagnosed and treated properly," Omar told deputations of people during public-meetings here. "
Wasnt this the guy who said - "Hamara zameen hai, ladenge, marte dam tak ladenge". Its not your zameen Omar and what you are accusing the people of Jammu of, you are guilty of.
Omar Abdullah wants to rewrite the Koran
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/delink-religion-from-terrorism-says-omar/407393/
"Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said there was a need to defeat the ideology of terrorism which could be achieved only after delinking religion from it. "
Fantastic idea Mr Abdullah, which parts of the Koran are you going to delete?
"Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said there was a need to defeat the ideology of terrorism which could be achieved only after delinking religion from it. "
Fantastic idea Mr Abdullah, which parts of the Koran are you going to delete?
Pranab admits - Parentage more important than capability
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Day_not_far_for_Rahul_to_be_PM_Pranab/articleshow/3953567.cms
India is still colonised, we replaced the white rulers with brown ones.
Sidelining other more competent leaders, Pranab Mukherjee said that Rahul Gandhi can be PM soon. A meteoric rise for someone who was a non-entity a few years ago. Will this happen to any other Indian National not born in the Nehru family?
India is still colonised, we replaced the white rulers with brown ones.
Sidelining other more competent leaders, Pranab Mukherjee said that Rahul Gandhi can be PM soon. A meteoric rise for someone who was a non-entity a few years ago. Will this happen to any other Indian National not born in the Nehru family?
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