RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Advocates for Social Harmony
Nagpur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, during a speech in Nagpur on October 12, 2024, emphasized the importance of shared spaces between different communities, particularly with Dalits, to promote social harmony. Addressing the audience at a gathering, Bhagwat called for a collective effort to bridge societal divisions, stressing that unity within diverse groups is essential for national progress. His remarks come amid growing discussions around caste-based discrimination and inclusion in India.
Bhagwat’s speech highlighted the RSS’s stance on national unity, which he believes can be strengthened by encouraging interactions between various segments of society, including Dalits. This approach, according to Bhagwat, will foster mutual respect and understanding, vital for a cohesive social fabric.
This message arrives at a time when caste-related issues remain central to political and social discourse in India. Bhagwat’s call for inclusivity resonates with ongoing efforts to address caste disparities, making it a pivotal moment in the nation’s socio-political landscape particularly when elections are just around the corner in Maharashtra.
NCP Leader Baba Siddiqui Shot Dead in Mumbai
Mumbai: In a shocking turn of events, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddiqui was shot dead in Mumbai’s Bandra area on Saturday. The 66-year-old politician, who had recently joined the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP, was attacked by three gunmen outside his son Zeeshan Siddiqui’s office near Colgate Ground in Nirmal Nagar. Siddiqui succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital, leaving the political landscape of Maharashtra in shock.
Two suspects, hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, have been arrested in connection with the murder, while a third suspect managed to escape. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that Mumbai police commissioner Vivek Phansalkar is overseeing the investigation, and a thorough probe has been promised.
Baba Siddiqui, a prominent Muslim leader who served as an MLA from Bandra (West) three times, was well-known in both political and Bollywood circles. His assassination has not only sparked outrage but also raised serious concerns about the state’s law and order, especially with the upcoming assembly elections looming.
Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar expressed his grief, calling the attack “extremely unfortunate and condemnable.” Pawar highlighted Siddiqui’s contributions to the minority community and secularism in Maharashtra. Opposition parties have swiftly condemned the incident, using it as a focal point to criticize the state’s handling of law and order.
Sharad Pawar, president of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), voiced his concerns over the deteriorating security situation, holding Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the home department, accountable. Pawar stated that the ruling government should take responsibility and step down.
Several political leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, echoed similar sentiments, calling the murder a reflection of the “collapse of administration” in the state. Thackeray and Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat emphasized that the assassination of a leader with Y-category security underlined the serious lapses in the state’s governance.
Siddiqui’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political arena, with leaders from across the spectrum expressing their grief and concern. As the investigation progresses, all eyes are on the state government to restore public confidence ahead of the elections.
Six Workers Dead After Wall Collapse at Construction Site
In a tragic incident on Saturday, October 12, 2024, six workers were killed when a wall collapsed at a private construction site in Mehsana, Gujarat. The disaster occurred around 1:45 pm near Jasalpur village, in Kadi Taluka. Around 9-10 workers were trapped under the debris after the wall collapsed during the construction of an underground tank. Emergency rescue operations were immediately launched to recover the victims.
The District Development Officer (DDO) of Mehsana, Dr. Hasrat Jasmine, confirmed that six bodies had been recovered and that a 19-year-old worker had been pulled out alive. Rescue efforts continued for others still trapped under the soil. Dr. Jasmine expressed hope that the remaining workers would be found alive.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the incident. He tweeted his condolences to the families of the deceased and announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakhs from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for each victim’s family and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. Modi also assured that the state government, alongside local authorities, is providing all possible assistance to those affected.
Inspector Prahaladsinh Vaghela of Kadi police station explained that the incident occurred when laborers were digging a pit for the underground tank, and the loose soil suddenly caved in, burying the workers.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the collapse, while the rescue teams remain at the scene, ensuring no further casualties are left unaccounted for.
Odisha Woman Raped, Abandoned in Delhi: Police Struggle to Unravel Mystery
In a tragic case from Delhi, a 34-year-old woman from Odisha was found semi-conscious in the Sarai Kale Khan area on Friday morning. According to reports, the woman, who had been living on the streets after a dispute forced her out of a friend’s house in August, was allegedly raped and dumped at the location. An Indian Navy officer noticed her in a bloodied condition at around 3:20 a.m. and immediately alerted the police.
The woman was rushed to AIIMS Trauma Center, where doctors confirmed the assault occurred elsewhere. Initial investigations indicate she had been living rough in the city, staying near ATM booths and other public spaces due to financial distress after losing contact with her family. Her family in Odisha had previously filed a missing person report but were informed of her presence in Delhi a few months ago.
Efforts to identify the accused are ongoing, with the police combing through CCTV footage from nearby locations. The woman’s fragmented recollections have complicated the investigation. She has been inconsistent in her statements, likely due to trauma, which has delayed the investigation’s progress. Authorities have now contacted her brother, a doctor, in an attempt to gather more details and offer additional support.
“The investigation is challenging as the victim is unable to provide coherent details,” said a senior police officer. “We are using all available surveillance to track the movements before the incident and identify the perpetrators.”
The case has sparked outrage, with demands for swift justice and better protection for vulnerable women in the capital. As of now, no arrests have been made.