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Supreme Court Upholds UP Madarsa Law, Securing Future for 16,000 Institutions and 17 Lakh Students
TCN News
The Supreme Court of India has upheld the validity of a 2004 law regulating madrassas in Uttar Pradesh, offering relief to approximately 16,000 madrassas and nearly 17 lakh students. The decision overturns an earlier Allahabad High Court judgment that deemed the Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Education Act, 2004, unconstitutional on grounds that it conflicted with the principle of secularism.
A...
Crafting Harmony: Muslim Hands Shape Earthen Stoves for Hindu Devotees in Bihar
M I Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: In the heart of the capital city, a heartwarming display of communal harmony unfolds each year as the poorest Muslim women and men craft handmade earthen stoves, locally known as “mitti ka chulha” (earthen stove), for Hindu devotees celebrating Chhath, Bihar’s most revered festival. This humble act of craftsmanship not only supports the ritual needs of...
From ‘Outsiders’ to ‘Infiltrators’: BJP Stokes Divisive Fires in Jharkhand Ahead of Elections
Shahnaz M, TwoCircles.net
Ranchi (Jharkhand): Ahead of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, which are scheduled to be held on November 13 and 20, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is apparently leaving no stone unturned to plarise voters on religious line and galvanise its vote base in the state — using divisive rhetoric.
This rhetoric forms part of the BJP’s campaign in Jharkhand,...
‘Blood for Blood’: Widow of Deceased who Climbed Muslim Property and Hoisted Saffron Flag Seeks Vengeance
Punam Masih, TwoCircles.net
Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh): Villages in Bahraich are still deserted following the October 13 communal violence in the districts, particularly in the Maharajganj’s Mahasi. Young residents have fled for safety. The unrest erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession, when a dispute over music played on a DJ sparked a confrontation between communities.
The violence erupted on Sunday during the...
How Crimes in India Go Unreported: A Closer Look at Systemic Gaps in NCRB Data
Anushka Kogta, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: A 16-month-old infant was found injured by her family, 800 meters away from their home near Delhi’s Tughlaq Lane, in February this year. She was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. While the police attributed the incident to a stray dog attack, city activists have raised serious questions about the circumstances.
Ambika Shukla, an animal welfare...
UP: Uncovering Layers of Conflict in Bahraich’s Communal Violence
Shahnaz M, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: In the aftermath of the communal violence in Maharajganj, Bahraich district, the narrative surrounding the death of Ram Gopal Mishra is steeped in grief, confusion and conflicting accounts. While the Mishra family’s statements highlight a personal tragedy, they also reveal significant inconsistencies and potential loopholes that complicate the broader understanding of the incident.
Harmilan Mishra, the victim’s brother,...
UP: Harmony Prevails in Bahraich Despite Communal Strains
Shahnaz M, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich stands as a testament to communal harmony, where the fabric of society weaves together despite the strains of rising Hindu assertiveness and Muslim frustrations. Personal connections among residents continue to foster a spirit of unity.
A Muslim man in his early 50s reminisces about his childhood in the town, where Diwali was celebrated with the...
Early Marriage, Tradition and Safety: Unraveling the Challenges for Muslim Girls in Education
Iqra Fatma, TwoCircles.net
Darbhanga (Bihar): Nusrat, a bright young woman from Muzaffarpur district in Bihar, always aspired to pursue higher education. After earning her bachelor's in computer application (BCA), she aimed for masters (MCA) at a prestigious university in Bangalore. However, her father opposed her decision to pursue further education. “Girls are meant for household work, not higher learning; this...
Supreme Court’s Citizenship Verdict: A Shield for Bengali Hindus or a Sword Against Muslims?
Iqra Fatma, TwoCircles.net
The Supreme Court recently affirmed the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which addresses Assam's unique migration history. This provision allows migrants from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) to gain citizenship if they entered India before March 25, 1971, whereas the rest of the country has a cut-off date of 1951.
The court dismissed claims...
‘We’ll Sacrifice Our Lives’: AIMPLB Warns Govt on Waqf Amendment Bill
TCN Correspondent
Lucknow: The President of the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, announced his staunch opposition to the proposed Waqf bill, asserting that AIMPLB members are prepared to risk their lives to oppose it. Speaking at a gathering in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, he contended that the government seeks to curtail the board’s rights and highlighted...
Shahi Idgah Masjid-Shri Krishna Temple Dispute: Allahabad HC Rejects Mosque Committee’s Plea, Sets Stage for Hindu Parties’ Hearing
TCN News
Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court on October 3 dismissed the Shahi Idgah Masjid Committee's recall petition in long-standing dispute between the mosque and Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura. The decision resonated deeply within the Hindu community, being hailed as a significant victory in their quest for recognition and justice.
With this ruling by a single judge bench presided over...
One More Baby Dies in Patna: How the Medical System is Costing Lives – One At A Time!
Sanjana Chawla, TwoCircles.net
Raj and Pooja (names changed on request) were in Patna, Bihar, earlier this month for the delivery of their first child. The couple traveled from their hometown of Gopalganj to consult well-known gynaecologist Dr Sharika Roy at the Shivam Hospital & Research Institute in Kankarbagh. What was supposed to be the best day of their lives turned...
Supreme Court Directs Former MANUU Chancellor Firoz Ahmed Bakht to Pay ₹1 Lakh and Publish Front-Page Apology in Bold Letters
TCN News
In a decision on October 14, 2024, the Supreme Court of India ordered Firoz Bakht Ahmed, the former Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) to publish a public apology and pay compensation to Professor Ehtesham Ahmad Khan, the former Dean of the School of Mass Communication and Journalism at MANUU. This case, stemming from a controversial...
Opposition Accuses JPC Chairman of ‘Parliamentary Misconduct’ Over Waqf Bill Proceedings
TCN News
New Delhi: Opposition leaders have approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging a "gross violation" of parliamentary conduct during the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting on the Waqf Bill. The letter, endorsed by all Opposition members, claims the proceedings were handled in a "biased and partisan" manner by Chairman Jagdambika Pal.
The complaint follows a walkout staged by Opposition...
Chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ in Mosque Does Not Hurt Religious Feelings, Rules Karnataka HC
TCN News
In a ruling that raised many eyebrows, the Karnataka High Court stated that shouting "Jai Shri Ram" (a Hindu religious chant) inside a mosque does not amount to an outrage of religious feelings, the Bar and Bench reported. The court quashed criminal proceedings against two individuals, Keerthan Kumar and Sachin Kumar, who had been charged with insulting religious...
Virtual Vigilantes: Unmasking the Digital Abuse Facing Muslim Communities
Sumaiya Ali, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: As our lives increasingly shift online, the risks of cybercrimes — such as stalking, trolling, harassment and cyber bullying — have surged. In today’s political climate, minorities, particularly Muslim women, seem to have become frequent targets of these online attacks. This abuse reflects a growing polarisation within the Indian society, raising urgent concerns about individual safety...
‘Misconduct’, ‘Indiscipline’: IIT-BHU Students Suspended While Demanding Justice for Gangrape Survivor
Sayeda, TwoCircles.net
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): Almost a year after a 22-year-old student of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) was allegedly gangraped by three workers of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Indian Institute of Technology- BHU (IIT-BHU) administration has suspended student leaders who were protesting for action against the accused – two of whom remain out on bail.
An official document...
Sondeghar: A Beacon of Communal Harmony in Maharashtra’s Heart
Imran Inamdar, TwoCircles.net
Maharashtra has of late faced communal tensions in various cities, towns and villages, disrupting the lives of locals and straining community relationships. These tensions often arise from processions and provocative social media posts, escalating into unrest among citizens. However, Sondeghar village in Ratnagiri district has initiated a remarkable approach to maintain communal harmony. The village’s panchayat has unanimously passed...
BJP’s Bid for Control Fails: Saffron Party Faces Setbacks in Historic J&K Elections
Tauseef Ahmed and Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Gurez: Celebrations erupted outside the residence of National Conference (NC) candidate Nizar Ahmed Khan, who triumphed over Faqeer Mohammad Khan of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by over 1,100 votes after five rounds of counting. Alongside Shopian, Gurez was a key constituency where the BJP harbored high hopes – bolstered by Defense Minister...
Control Over Belief? Buddhists Rally to Reclaim Mahabodhi Temple Management
M.I. Khan, TwoCircles.net
Gaya (Bihar): Buddhists are making a renewed and assertive push for total control over the management of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, that is the holiest of Buddhists. This shift in tone comes with threats to intensify protests in November and December 2024.
Last month, hundreds of Buddhists, including monks, activists and followers dressed in traditional deep...
A Democratic Dilemma: Will ‘One Nation, One Election’ Suffocate State Voices?
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The approval of the proposed ‘One Nation, One Election’ by the Central Cabinet has attracted sharp criticism from Opposition parties, social scientists and academics who view it as a tool to undermine political dynamics and issues of individual states, making them subordinate to national concerns, which goes against the federal spirit of the Indian Union. They...
MP: How Parents Turn a Letter in Grade-3 Environmental Science Textbook into a ‘Love Jihad’ Frenzy
Adnan Ali, TwoCircles.net
Chhatarpur (Madhya Pradesh): The spectre of ‘Love Jihad’ has resurfaced in a striking new context — school textbooks. In Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur district, a ‘concerned’ parent has accused the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), claiming that the curriculum is subtly endorsing this contentious concept.
Raghav Pathak, whose daughter is in third grade, lodged a formal...
Haryana Elections: As Polling Continues, Mewat Residents Grapple with Promises Amid Hookah Conversations and Heated Debates
Musheera Ashraf/ TwoCircles.net
Badkali Chowk (Nuh), Haryana: At the entrance of Tigaon village, 60 kilometres away from Nuh, a group of men sit outside the local shops, passing around a hookah as they discuss the upcoming elections. The group spans generations, with ages ranging from 25 to 65, yet one sentiment unites them a sense of skepticism. "Elections come and...
Missing Voices: Rahul Gandhi’s Rally at Nuh Reveals Gender Gap in Political Engagement in Haryana Elections
Musheera Ashraf, TwoCircles.net
Nuh, Haryana: Amidst the sweltering 36-degree heat and towering buildings, the Nuh highway resonated with the pulsating beats of DJs and booming music. Flags waved exuberantly as tractors and mini trucks paraded toward the venue, where eager supporters awaited Rahul Gandhi’s arrival.
Gandhi was in Nuh to address a public meeting in support of party candidate and sitting MLA...
Silent Cries: Why Rising Suicide at IITs Turning into Epidemic
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The suicide rate among students at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has been steadily increasing, with 2024 proving particularly tragic for IIT Guwahati, where three students have taken their lives. These incidents have shocked the nation and highlighted the growing mental health crisis in India’s top educational institutions.
On September 9, Bimlesh Kumar, a 21-year-old B.Tech....
बस्तर में सुरक्षा बल और माओवादी मुठभेड़ में पिसती आम आदिवासी जिदंगियां, दूधमुंही बच्ची ने गंवाई जान
Poonam Masih/ TwoCircles.net
बस्तर। छत्तीसगढ़ के बस्तर में माओवादी और सुरक्षा बलों के बीच होने वाली मुठभेड़ अब एक आम घटना बन गई है। माओवाद को जड़ से खत्म करने के प्रयासों में सुरक्षा बलों द्वारा नियमित रूप से ऑपरेशन चलाए जाते हैं, लेकिन इन ‘मुठभेड़’ की आग में कई बार कथित तौर पर निर्दोष आदिवासी भी झुलस रहे हैं, जिससे क्षेत्र में तनाव...
‘Aao, Tumhari Netagiri Nikalte Hain’: Law Student Alleges Police Brutality During DUSU Elections
Shahzeen Khan, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Shahreyar Khan, a final-year law student and active member of the student wing of the Rashtriya Janata Dal Party (RJD), alleged that he was violently detained and assaulted by the Delhi Police during the recent Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) elections.
The purported incident occurred on September 27 near the Law Centre-1 gate at DU campus,...
Freedom on a Leash: Sikander Malik’s Journey Through Politics and Surveillance in Kashmir
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: In the heart of Kashmir’s evolving political landscape, Hafiz Mohammad Sikander Malik stood out not just as a candidate, but as a symbol of resilience and challenge. This election marked a significant moment in his life, as he contested the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections as an independent candidate from the Bandipora constituency while wearing a GPS...
As J&K Elections Conclude, Kulgam Confronts a Crucial Test of Development and Promised Change
Mubashir Naik, TwoCircles.net
Kulgam (Kashmir): Following the conclusion of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, the political landscape in Kulgam, South Kashmir, is undergoing a significant transformation. Muhammad Yousuf Rather, 77, popularly known as Tarigami, a Communist leader, faced a tough electoral challenge from Sayyar Ahmad Reshi, who was backed by the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI). It added a new dimension to the...
Mehbooba Mufti: A Controversial Legacy and the Quest for Redemption in J&K Politics
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Anantnag: The scene was set in Bijbehara, where she campaigned for her daughter Iltija Mufti. A gathering of around 100 eager supporters, primarily men, awaiting their leader Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to arrive near a local petrol pump. When she addressed the crowd from her car, she invoked her family’s...
सिर्फ दो साल में गुरुग्राम में नमाज की 37 जगहों को किया गया चार, अब जनता है परेशान
पूनम मसीह/ TwoCircles.net
गुरुग्राम- दिल्ली से सटे गुरुग्राम का जैसे-जैसे औद्योगिक विकास हुआ यहां की बसावट में भी कई तरह के बदलाव आए। राजधानी से सटे होने के कारण यहां कई विदेशी कंपनियों ने निवेश किया और कई तरह के रोजगार का सृजन हुआ।
जिसका नतीजा यह हुआ कि देश के अलग-अलग हिस्सों से बड़ी कंपनियों में काम करने वालों से...
Telangana: Jainoor Violence: Activists Claim Politics Behind Communal Tension, Urge for Independent Commission
TCN News
Following the violent unrest in Jainoor, a fact-finding team of social activists visited the Adilabad district and alleged that the incident was politically motivated. They are demanding the establishment of an independent commission to investigate the events and have called for the immediate removal of the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and the suspension of the Superintendent of...
Under Pressure: Omar Abdullah’s Hat-Trick in a Changing Kashmir Political Landscape
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
On September 4, around 2:00 p.m., the National Conference office in Ganderbal reverberated with ‘Zyoon Hoo Zyoon Hoo, Nationalan Zyoon Hoo (we won, we won, National Conference won)’ slogans as Omar Abdullah, the party’s vice president and former chief minister of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state, arrived there after filing his nomination papers. Accompanied by his...
Gujjar-Bakerwal Communities: Neglected Voices in Jammu and Kashmir Elections
Kounsar Bashir and Safoora Hilal/TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: As Jammu and Kashmir approaches the third and final phase of its Assembly elections — marking the first polls in nearly a decade — political campaigns are in full swing. However, a significant section of the population remains sidelined: the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities. With a combined population of 34 lakh, these groups, especially...
Enthusiastic Voting, Creative Floating Polling Stations Mark J&K Elections’ 2nd Phase
As per the Election Commission, the voter turnout stood at 54.11%
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: For 25-year-old Asiya Khursheed, the second phase of ongoing assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir that held today (September 25) represents more than just her first voting experience; it embodies a hopeful opportunity for change. Having completed her post-graduation last year, she has applied for...
‘This Is Our Land, We Won’t Be Silenced’: Dalits Demand Land Rights After Arson, Attack
MI Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: In a harrowing display of community strife, Dalit victims in Bihar are pleading for “patta” (lease deeds) of land to resolve a bitter ownership dispute over government-owned land. This urgent call comes as dozens of impoverished families from the Mushahar and Ravidas communities find themselves homeless, forced to endure the elements after their thatched and bamboo huts...
मध्यप्रदेश: पुलिस कस्टडी में आदिवासी की मौत, परिवार लगा रहा हत्या का आरोप!
सतीश भारतीय, TwoCircles.net
खंडवा। बीते दिनों 23 अगस्त को खंडवा के पंधाना थाने से एक आत्महत्या का मामला सामने आया है।
बताया जा रहा है कि धर्मेंद्र दांगोड़े नामक आदिवासी शख्स ने थाना में फांसी लगाकर आत्महत्या की है।
मगर, पूरे घटनाक्रम पर धर्मेंद्र के परिजनों ने हत्या का आरोप लगाया है।
पुलिस प्रशासन ने मीडिया से कहा, ‘‘धर्मेंद्र दांगोड़े चोरी का आरोपी...
Engineer Rasheed’s Rallying Cry: A Fight for ‘Rights’, ‘Dignity’ and a ‘New Political Era’ in Kashmir
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: Out on bail and ready to make waves, Engineer Rasheed hit the campaign trail with a powerful rallying cry echoing across the Kashmir valley: “Jail Ka Badla Vote se” (the avenge of jail with the vote). His emotional return electrified supporters as he vowed to challenge mainstream political parties and combat the BJP’s influence in the region.
Rasheed’s...
The Curious Grave of Lucknow: A Tale of Cigarettes and Faith
Mirza Shaina Beg, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: Tucked away on the outskirts of Lucknow, behind the remnants of Musabagh Palace, lies an intriguing grave not adorned with flowers or candles, but with a curious collection of cigarette packs. Locals reverently refer to it as the shrine of ‘Cigarette Wale Baba’. This unusual site is tied to Captain Frederick Wells, a British officer who...
SC Halts Extrajudicial ‘Bulldozer Justice: Jamiat Applauds Decision; APCR Calls for a Pan India Guideline
TCN News
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India onSeptember 17 issued a nationwide stay on bulldozer demolitions until October 1, 2024. The order came in response to a batch of petitions – highlighting concerns about alleged misuse of demolition drives and “bulldozer justice”.
The Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) and the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind (JuH) are among...
‘No One Will Trust Them Anymore’: Jamaat-e-Islami Faces Backlash for Electoral Shift
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) was founded in 1941 by Syed Abdul Ala Maududi. Inspired by the Muslim Brotherhood, the organisation was rooted in ideals such as Pan-Islamism, religious conservatism, Islamic revivalism, Shia–Sunni unity and anti-secularism. It aimed to spread Islamic values across the Indian subcontinent and advocate for an Islamic political system. Maududi believed that Western...
Hindutva Extremists Operate with Impunity in Cong-ruled Himachal Pradesh? Elderly Muslim Shopkeeper Assaulted Amid Cheers
TCN News
In a disturbing incident, an elderly Muslim shopkeeper was violently attacked by a Hindutva mob in Himachal Pradesh, which has witnessed a rise in Islamophobic incidents in recent weeks.
A purported video, which surfaced on social media on Tuesday, shows the mob aggressively beating the shopkeeper, while spectators cheer and blow whistles. The footage captures the man crying and pleading for...
J&K Elections: How Anti-Delhi Rhetoric Shapes Kashmiri Political Survival Amidst Poll Battles
Aakib Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: In April this year, Syed Altaf Bukhari, a prominent Kashmiri politician, openly aligned himself with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that supporting the central government was beneficial if it brought development and stability to the region.
Bukhari, who leads the newly formed political outfit Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP), faced significant backlash from rival political parties for his closeness...
Uttarakhand: How Administrative Blunder Energises Hindutva Groups to Create Unrest, Demand Mosque Demolition
TCN News
New Delhi: An administrative error in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, triggered protests by Hindu groups demanding demolition of a mosque they claim is illegally built. An initial Right to Information (RTI) response indicated that there were no records of the mosque’s land, which heightened tensions. However, further investigation has confirmed that the land is legally registered, and the mosque is listed...
Jhola Chap Doctors: A Grave Threat to the Lives of the Poor and Marginalised in Rural Bihar
MI Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: Mohi Yadav, Krishna Kumar and Lakshmi Devi, whose lives tragically ended in recent days, share a grim commonality: they were all victims of ‘Jhola Chaap’ doctors (quacks) in rural Bihar. These unlicensed practitioners, lacking an MBBS degree and proper medical qualifications, run private clinics that prove fatal for those seeking treatment.
Mohi Yadav, a middle-aged Home Guard Jawan,...
Bulldozer Action in Surat Under Scrutiny: Activists Allege Targeted Retribution After Communal Violence
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
On September 10, 2024, municipal authorities in Gujarat’s Surat district launched a demolition drive in Saiyedpura, an area recently hit by riots following an alleged stone-pelting at a Ganesh pandal. Despite official claims of a pre-planned anti-encroachment operation, the timing and scale of the demolitions of “illegal” structures — just a day after the unrest — have...
Death of Mangesh Yadav Stirs Up Storm: Are Uttar Pradesh Police Encounters ‘Targeting Marginalised Communities’?
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
The recent death of Mangesh Yadav in a police encounter has sparked intense controversy and debate. The 24-year-old, who was allegedly involved in the August 28, 2024, robbery at Bharat Jewellers at Sultanpur, was killed by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) on September 5, 2024. While the police claim Yadav was a key participant in the...
Empowering Change: Women Candidates Challenge the Status Quo in J&K Elections
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: As mainstream parties gear up for campaigns ahead of the long-awaited assembly elections in Kashmir that is scheduled to be held from September 18 to October in three phases after five years of Centre’s rule through the lieutenant governor (L-G), a notable shift is emerging in the political landscape of the Valley, with several new independent female...
From Legacy to Challenge: Iltija Mufti’s Fight to Revive PDP and Retain Bijbehara
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
In 1996, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed rejoined the Congress, he was assigned the task of fielding candidates for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. Though he successfully identified candidates for most constituencies, no one was willing to contest the Bijbehara seat on a Congress ticket due to its reputation as a militant stronghold in South...
Crushing Muslims, Marginalised: India’s Bulldozer Raj Displaces Over 7 Lakh Amidst Legal and Human Rights Concerns
Iqra Fatma, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: On August 23, the family members of Haji Shahzad Ali, a former vice president of the Congress in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur, awoke to the threatening sound of JCB excavators. Peering out of a window, they saw a group of policemen accompanied by a medical team and three bulldozers. Without any prior notice, one of the bulldozers...
The Fading Echoes of Delhi’s Urdu Bazaar: A Glimpse into a Disappearing Heritage
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
‘Dekho nigaahein naaz se Delhi ke nazaare, ye tehzeeb ki jannath Jamuna ke kinare,’ recited Mirza Sikander Beg Changezi, quoting the poetry by his father, Naseem Mirza Changezi.
Nestled in the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, the Urdu Bazaar was once the beating heart of the city’s intellectual and cultural life. Established during the Mughal era, this bustling...
Judicial Independence Under Scrutiny: Ex-Judges Join BJP, VHP, as CJI Hosts Modi
TCN News
New Delhi: As the political landscape heats up ahead of state elections, a significant trend is emerging: the judiciary is transitioning into active politics. In a recent move, former Supreme Court Justice Hemant Gupta, known for his ruling on Karnataka’s hijab (veil) ban, stirred controversy after attending an event of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), signaling a possible alignment...
Owaisi Appeals Muslims to Oppose Waqf Amendment Bill: What Makes Proposed Law Contentious
Iqra Fatma, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: On September 11, a sense of urgency gripped Hyderabad as MP Asaduddin Owaisi who made a fervent appeal, urging people to oppose the recently introduced Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024. Describing the proposed legislation as “oppressive and unconstitutional,” he issued a statement via a video clip that rapidly circulated among concerned citizens.
The bill, which had been...
Kashmir’s Political Shake-Up: From BJP Proxies to NC Resurgence, New Parties Struggle for Relevance
Zaid Bin Shabir, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: On March 8, 2020, more than seven months after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Union government abrogated Jammu & Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and reclassified the state as a Union Territory (UT), most of Kashmir’s leadership remained in detention. The exception was a few who launched a new political front, the Jammu & Kashmir...
Maratha Reservations vs. OBC Quotas: A Deepening Divide in Maharashtra’s Rural Heartland
Aqib Nazir and Azib Ahmed, TwoCircles.net
On the morning of October 14, in Antarwali Sarathi, members of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community gathered to support a Maratha rally. They provided tea and water for the Maratha participants, showing solidarity. However, Maratha leader Manoj Jarange’s speech, in which he demanded reservations from the OBC quota, sent shockwaves through the OBC...
Protests Erupt Over Muslim Advocate Purchasing Home in Predominantly Hindu Area in UP
TCN News
On Monday, September 9, tensions erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Hindutva groups protested the recent purchase of a house by Muslim advocate Nadeem in a predominantly Hindu area.
Nadeem acquired the property in Bhartiya Colony, Muzaffarnagar, through an open bank auction. The purchase sparked strong reactions from local Hindutva groups, who organized a protest against Nadeem’s new home.
Protesters voiced...
Homes Demolished After Ganesh Pandal Incident in Gujarat; 28 Arrested
TCN News
Communal violence erupted in Surat’s Syedpura area on September 8 after minors allegedly threw stones at a Ganesh Chaturthi pandal. The unrest led to violent clashes, causing significant destruction to property, including shops, vehicles, and a mosque, primarily affecting Muslims.
The violence began when stones were allegedly thrown at a Ganesh pandal. In response, a large Hindu crowd gathered...
Struggling for Recognition: The Journey of Assam’s ‘D-Voters’ Through Legal Battles and Hope for the CAA
Iqra Farrukh, TwoCircles.net
Rahim Ali, who lived his entire life in Kashimpur village, Assam, with the label of an “illegal citizen,” was buried under that same label. It wasn’t until July 11, 2024, twelve years after his death, that the Supreme Court declared him an Indian citizen.
This story extends beyond Rahim Ali. Thousands of individuals in Assam, including Arun, Mamta,...
Mob vandalizes Muslim shops and an Eidgah in Gujarat following an accident
TCN News
On the evening of Sunday, September 8, a Hindutva mob vandalized several Muslim-owned shops and a local Eidgah in the Kathlal-Balasinor area of Gujarat. The violence erupted following a minor road accident and quickly escalated, with properties associated with the Muslim community being targeted. This incident has raised serious concerns about growing communal tensions and increasing violence in...
Empowering Rural Women: India’s Drone Pilots Pioneering Agricultural Innovation
Suhail Bhat, TwoCircles.net
Gurugram (Haryana): On a Monday morning in Manesar, a village in Gurugram district, Haryana, a group of four women attentively follows instructions from their female drone instructor. “These propellers need adjustment before we take the drone into the sky,” advises Nisha, the master instructor at the Drone Destination programme.
Anita is among the many women benefiting from the Drone...
How Toxic Masculinity, Cultural Crisis and Legal Failures Fuel Sexual Violence
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
In a world tainted by the curse of masculinity, a word that translates solely to dominance, I walk as an object to be controlled — a mere silhouette in the landscape where my worth is measured by how easily I can be subdued. A lingering gaze capable of stripping me of my dignity follows while I weave...
Kolkata’s Rally Revolution: The RG Kar Tragedy and the City’s Defiant Stand
Utsa Sarmin, TwoCircles.net
“Kolkata has transformed into a city of rallies,” observed Mayurakshi Banerjee, a Mumbai-based cine worker who has called the city home for over two decades. This sentiment resonates throughout Kolkata’s iconic locations, where large-scale protests and smaller demonstrations have become increasingly common. A stroll through College Street on any evening reveals pockets of protests by students, workers,...
Voices From the Void: J&K’s Long-Awaited Assembly Polls Stir Hope and Uncertainty
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: Ghulam Nabi Bhat, a dedicated 65-year-old voter, has always prioritised casting his vote and has never missed an election. However, he now faces a dilemma about participating in the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which are the first in a decade. The last time he voted in an assembly election was in 2014,...
As Kashmir Gears Up for Assembly Elections, What It Means for the Region and Its People
Aqib Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: Mohammad Rizwan, 38, expressed his excitement upon learning that the Election Commission of India (ECI) had finally announced assembly elections for Jammu and Kashmir after a decade-long hiatus. Rizwan, a painter, and many others like him saw this announcement as a “long-awaited relief”.
“We wanted our own representative — someone who could listen and address our issues,” Rizwan...
Why Prashant Kishor is Wooing Muslims Ahead of Bihar Assembly Polls: Will He Succeed?
MI Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: Election strategist-turned-political activist Prashant Kishor, convenor of Jan Suraj Abhiyan (JSA), is positioning himself as a significant new political force in Bihar ahead of next year’s Assembly polls. Recently, he has focused intensely on appealing to Muslims, a community traditionally aligned with Opposition leader Lalu Prasad of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Notably, Kishor, commonly known as...
A.G. Noorani: A Stalwart Defender of Constitutional Integrity and Civil Liberties Passes Away
TCN News
India bids farewell to one of its most esteemed legal luminaries, A.G. Noorani, who has passed away at the age of 94. Noorani was not merely a lawyer and historian; he was a towering figure in the realm of constitutional law and civil liberties, whose impact resonated through both the corridors of power and the heart of public...
ग्राउंड रिपोर्ट: नूंह दंगे के आरोपी बनाए गए दिव्यांग और पटरी विक्रेताओं की तबाह हुई जिंदगी, कोर्ट कचहरी के चक्कर व अवसाद में बीत रहे दिन
Poonam Masih/ TwoCircles.net
पिछले साल हिन्दू समूह द्वारा हरियाणा के नूंह में निकाली गई कलश यात्रा के दौरान हुई हिंसा के बाद कानूनी कार्रवाई की जद में आए दिव्यांग और फुटपाथ विक्रेताओं की रोजी-रोटी के लाले. कोर्ट-कचहरी के चक्कर में जीवनयापन हो रहा मुस्किल. पुलिस पर जबरन अपराध मढ़ने के आरोप.
हरियाणा/नूंह। महीने भर में लगभग 17 दिन नूंह जिला अदालत में...
Unseen and Unheard: The Battle for Shelter and Healthcare in India’s Homeless Population
Sanjana Chawla, TwoCircles.net
India, home to approximately 142 crore people, is bustling with activity and teeming with its populace. Yet, beneath the surface of this vibrant nation lies a silent crisis: a widespread and multifaceted homelessness epidemic that reveals the stark reality of life for many. Thousands are living on the streets, contending not only with the lack of shelter...
एससी-एसटी आरक्षण के वर्गीकरण के खिलाफ और समर्थन में सजातियों में छुआछूत है बड़ी समस्या
Poonam Masih, TwoCircles.net
देश आजाद होने के बाद संविधान निर्माता डॉ. भीमराव अंबेडकर ने वंचित समुदाय के लिए आरक्षण की मांग करते हुए इसे संवैधानिक रुप देने की पहल की। इसमें वह सफल भी रहें।
इसके बाद साल 1992 में मंडल कमीशन की सिफारिश पर ओबीसी आरक्षण लागू किया गया। लेकिन समय-समय पर आरक्षण में कई तरह के बदल भी हुए...
Forensic report is confidential; it’s evidence’: Misinformation and Media Leaks Tarnish R.G. Kar Medical College Rape, Murder Probe
Utsa Sarmin, TwoCircles.net
Kolkata: The brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s state-run R.G. Kar Hospital has sparked widespread outrage and protests in the city. However, the case has also been marred by a wave of misinformation, particularly surrounding the post-mortem report.
Initial reports and social media speculation claimed that a substantial amount of semen, ranging from...
Fact vs. Fiction: Unpacking the Viral Misinformation Behind the Bangladesh-Hindu Atrocity Claims
Yusha Rahman, TwoCircles.net
An image of a screenshot from a video showing a woman being raped went viral on social media. The image was accompanied by a description, suggesting that Islamist forces were celebrating the rape of Hindu women in Bangladesh and encouraging other Muslims to seize Hindu properties there.
This image gained widespread popularity in India with claims that the...
Disturbing and Contradictory: A Timeline of the Events at R.G. Kar Medical College
Utsa Sarmin, TwoCircles.net
Kolkata: The brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College on August 9 has sent shockwaves across the nation. The case, now under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court, has unfolded through a series of disturbing and contradictory events.
August 9
9:30-10:00 a.m.: The victim’s body is discovered by a fellow postgraduate...
‘I knew the victim as a colleague and friend’: Rape and Murder at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College Leaves Medical Fraternity in Distress
Musheera Ashraf, TwoCircles.net
“This incident has left us all shaken. I knew the victim as a colleague and friend; we shared long working hours and struggles. The incident has created a sense of fear and uncertainty,” said a resident doctor from Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. This reflection of collective anguish underscores the profound impact of a recent...
From Nepali Dreams to Kashmir’s Nightmare: The Journey of Trafficked Women and Their Lost Identities
Safoora Hilal and Kounsar Bashir, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: In the dimly lit room, barely illuminated by the single window, the space was cluttered with various items. The room was half-filled with a jumble of belongings, and in one corner, opposite to the chaos, sat a family of four, accompanied by a few neighborhood children. Nearby, a man leisurely smoked a hookah, the...
Digital Deceit: How AI and Voice Apps Were Weaponised to Sexually Assault Tribal Girls in Madhya Pradesh
Iqra Farrukh, TwoCircles.net
Bhopal: In a chilling revelation from Madhya Pradesh, technology has been weaponised for deceit and cruelty. Approximately 80 kilometers from Sidhi district headquarters, impoverished tribal girls were tricked with promises of government scholarships and subjected to horrific sexual assaults.
The perpetrators employed advanced technology — using artificial intelligence and a magic voice app to mimic a woman’s voice and lure...
AIMPLB Fires Back at Modi’s UCC Proposal: ‘Sharia Is Not Communal; Misleading Terms Undermine Constitution, Erode Unity’
TCN News
New Delhi: The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has strongly responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day call for a uniform civil code, asserting that such a move would be unacceptable to Muslims as it conflicts with Sharia law. Criticising him for describing religious personal laws as communal, the board labeled the stance as highly objectionable.
PM...
Provocation, Misinformation: How a Schoolyard Brawl Escalated Communal Tensions in Rajasthan’s Udaipur
TCN Special Correspondent
Jaipur: Rajasthan’s Udaipur district is gripped by unrest as a student altercation at a local government school ignited a surge of communal violence on August 16. What began as a schoolyard fight escalated into arson, stone-pelting and vandalism, leading to market shutdowns and a flood of tourists fleeing the City of Lakes.
As per the orders of the Udaipur...
Udaipur Communal Unrest Aftermath: Muslim Teen’s Home Demolished, PUCL Decries ‘Goonda Raj’ Tactics
TCN News Desk
New Delhi: Demolition of the home belonging to the family of a Muslim teenager accused of stabbing his Hindu classmate in Rajasthan’s Udaipur district has sparked significant controversy. The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) has condemned the action as an example of “goonda raj” and has called for urgent judicial intervention in a letter to the chief...
Bombay HC Rules Minority Schools Exempt from RTE Act Quota; Maharashtra Govt Ordered to Reimburse Past Admissions
TCN News
New Delhi: The Bombay High Court’s Aurangabad bench has recently determined that minority educational institutions cannot enrol students under the 25% quota designated for economically and socially disadvantaged children as outlined in the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act), even if they wish to do so voluntarily, Bar and Bench reported.
This...
The Last Guardian of Turquoise: Mohammad Hanief’s Struggle to Preserve Kashmir’s Dying Art
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: In the early morning, as the streets of downtown Srinagar — known for its artisans and art forms — begin to buzz with activity, shopkeepers display their goods and autowalas wait for customers. Mohammad Hanief Bhat, 62, starts his day by opening a window in his workstation, located on the first floor of a 100-year-old...
Hate Crimes Against Bengali-Speaking Muslim Migrant Workers in Odisha: Their Pain and Trauma
M I Khan, TwoCircles.net
Saidul Sheikh and Noorul Sheikh, both migrant workers from Murshidabad, West Bengal, have allegedly been forced to return to their homes prematurely. They are the latest victims of hate crimes in Odisha. Labeled as "Bangladeshi Muslims," they have been subjected to abuse, humiliation, threats, attacks and beatings allegedly by Hindutva activists and members of organizations linked...
From Famine Relief to Heritage Jewel: The Story of Lucknow’s Rumi Darwaza
Sidra Fatima and Syed Taqui Haider, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: Nestled in the heart of Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the Rumi Darwaza stands as a breathtaking testament to the city’s rich architectural legacy and cultural achievements. Often dubbed the “Turkish Gate”, this magnificent gateway was constructed in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, a pivotal figure in Awadh’s history. Positioned between the Chota...
Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024: Government Control vs. Religious Autonomy
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in the Centre recently tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Parliament, igniting a significant controversy. The proposed amendments have faced strong opposition from the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Muslim leaders and Opposition parties, who argue that the bill threatens the autonomy and...
Caste, Cash and Construction: The Struggle of a Dalit Student Aspiring an IIT Education Against the Odds
Iqra Farrukh, TwoCircles.net
Darbhanga (Bihar): Neha Kumari, a determined young woman from the Scheduled Caste (SC) Mehtar community, dreams of becoming an architect. Her ambition is not undermined by any lack of drive or desire typical of marginalized communities but is instead threatened by significant financial barriers.
At 17, Neha has recently completed her pre-university education with exceptional marks from the Bihar...
From Urdu to Sufism: Young Author’s New Book Illuminates Bihar’s Mystical Past
Nikhat Fatima, TwoCircles.net
Hyderabad: Syed Amjad Hussain, 19, who previously authored a book on the celebrated Urdu writer Akhtar Orenvi, is now poised to unveil his second work, focusing on Sufi history in Bihar.
His new book offers a comprehensive exploration of the Sufi tradition, delving into the teachings of Sufi saints and the spiritual principles they established. Amjad Hussain explains,...
Amidst Ruin, Humanity Reigns: Compassion and Solidarity Shine Through Wayanad Landslide Aftermath
By Najiya O, TwoCircles.net
Wayanad (Kerala): At around 2:40 a.m. on July 30, Feroz Khan received a phone call about the landslide in Wayanad. Residing in Nilambur, 20 kilometers from the affected area and along the banks of the Chaliyar River, which originates in Wayanad, he and his family, along with their neighbors, remained awake, worried about rising water levels....
बजट 2024-25: माइनॉरिटी स्कीम मौलाना आज़ाद एजुकेशन फाउंडेशन के फंड में इस बार आवंटन नहीं
अल्पसंख्यक छात्रों को पढ़ाई में मदद पहुंचाने वाली योजना मौलाना आज़ाद एजुकेशन फाउंडेशन में साल 2022-23 के बजट में भारी कटौती के बाद इस बार कोई आवंटन नहीं किया गया है। क्या इस कटौती से अल्पसंख्यकों का विकास होगा?
एम.ओबैद, TwoCircles.net
सबका साथ, सबका विकास और सबका विश्वास का नारा देने वाली मोदी सरकार के तीसरे कार्यकाल के पहले बजट में ज़्यादातर माइनॉरिटी स्कीम...
With SC Denying Re-NEET, Indian Medical Aspirants Confront Persistent Hurdles at Home and Abroad
Md Kaifee Alam, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on July 23 decisively ruled out the possibility of re-conducting the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET-UG. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, concluded there is insufficient evidence to suggest a systemic leak of the exam paper that would undermine its integrity.
Though the ruling cleared...
Honoring a Legacy: Alums Rally to Support Journalism Students at Jamia Millia Islamia
Sanjana Chawla, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: In a significant move to support education and empower those in need, the Professor Obaid Siddiqui Memorial Scholarship 2024 has been awarded to six incoming students of the MA Convergent Journalism (MACJ) programme at Jamia Millia Islamia. The announcement was made by the MACJ alumni group in July 2024, ahead of the new academic session.
The MACJ...
Godna’s Decline: The Baiga Tribe’s Struggle to Preserve a Vanishing Tradition in a Modern World
Hamaad Habibullah & Anamika Yadav TwoCircles.net
Samarlin Agriya, a young Adivasi woman from the Baiga tribe, received her first tattoo at the age of 10. “I was scared of getting inked,” she recalled, describing her experience of having tattoos placed on her forehead, hands, back and other parts of her body. Despite her initial fear, she worries that the tradition...
बिहार : नीतीश सरकार के ड्रीम प्रोजेक्ट नल जल योजना को लेकर क्यों उठ रहे सवाल!
नल जल योजना में गड़बड़ी को लेकर पीएचईडी मंत्री नीरज सिंह बबलू को ज्ञापन सौंपा गया।
एम.ओबैद/ TwoCircles.net
नल जल योजना नीतीश सरकार की ड्रीम प्रोजेक्ट है। इसके कार्यान्वयन को लेकर सवाल उठते रहे हैं। इसी कड़ी में अब इस योजना में गड़बड़ी को लेकर बिहार सरकार के पीएचईडी मंत्री नीरज सिंह बबलू को लेकर एक ज्ञापन सौंपा गया है।
बता दें...
Cafés in Kashmir’s Smaller Towns: Crucial Hubs for Social Interaction and Community Engagement
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: At 3 p.m., a steady stream of young girls begins to filter into Taste of Tibet, a café nestled between prominent coaching centers and the Women’s Degree College in Anantnag. Opting for Ting Mo Shapta, a beloved Tibetan dish, these girls are drawn to the café’s reputation for authentic Tibetan cuisine, a legacy brought...
Security Threats Loom Large: Militant Attacks Cast Shadow Over Jammu and Kashmir’s Assembly Elections?
Auqib Javeed, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: More than a decade since Jammu and Kashmir regained the right to elect its own government, a wave of militant attacks in the Jammu region has cast a shadow over anticipated elections, plunging both the people and regional political parties into uncertainty.
On August 5, 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government revoked the region’s special status...
नेमप्लेट पर नाम लिखने के पीछे भाजपा का एक ही मकसद मुसलमानों को आर्थिक रुप से कमजोर करना?
पूनम मसीह/ TwoCircles.net
सावन का महीना शुरु होने से पहले ही उत्तर प्रदेश और उत्तराखंड में मुसलमानों के लिए प्रशासन द्वारा तुगलकी फरमान जारी किया है। जिसके अनुसार कावड़ यात्रा के दौरान रास्ते में पड़ने वाली सभी दुकानों, होटलों और ठेले-खोमचे पर दुकानदार का नाम लिखा होना चाहिए। ताकि आमुख व्यक्ति के धर्म की पहचान आसानी से की जाए। इतना ही...
लावारिस लाशों का अंतिम संस्कार करने वाली पूजा शर्मा को अपनों ने ठुकरा दिया, आसपास के लोग भी नहीं रखते कोई वास्ता
पूनम मसीह/ TwoCircles.net
“अब मेरे मोहल्ले के लोग भी मुझसे बात नहीं करते हैं. मेरे दोस्तों ने मुझे छोड़ दिया है। लेकिन मैं अकेली खुश हूं”। यह कहना है 28 वर्षीय पूजा शर्मा का जो पिछले दो सालों से दिल्ली में लावरिस लाशों को जलाने काम कर रही हैं। वह रोज सुबह 10 बजे घर से शमशान घाट की तरफ...
Breaking Boundaries: Gurez Border Youths Master Filmmaking to Share J&K’s Stories with the World
Tauseef Ahmad/ TwoCircles.net
Bandipora: For centuries, women in the border areas of Kashmir Valley have been predominantly confined to household and agricultural roles. However, a remarkable transformation is underway, challenging societal norms as young girls break barriers and excel in diverse fields. This shift signals a significant departure from their traditional roles, showcasing their talents and ambitions on broader stages.
Take Shaheena,...
In the Shadows of Safety: Delhi’s Homeless Women Navigate Fear and Heat
Tauseef Ahmad and Abdul Basit
New Delhi: Homeless women in the national capital are grappling with an unprecedented challenge: safety. They have been unable to sleep for months due to heightened fears of harassment on the streets.
One such woman, Sehrish (name changed on request), aged 28 and a mother of two children, said she has spent the past month staying awake...
Central Government’s Move to Seize of ‘Pandaram’ Land Ignites Fear and Tension in Lakshadweep
Mohammed Ramees, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: India’s smallest union territory, Lakshadweep Islands, has been tense following the central government’s action to take possession of 'pandaram' land, a type of land for which the Government of India holds proprietary rights. Tensions escalated after the deputy collector of Kavaratti, Lakshadweep, issued a notice to assume control over the land.
This move comes in the wake...
मेडिकल फील्ड में आती तब्दीली में दाई का काम हो रहा बंद
पूनम मसीह, TwoCircles.net
सावित्री (बदला हुआ नाम, 70) और सुनीता(55) अपने घर में दोपहर के वक्त आराम कर रही थीं। घर में 21 दिन पहले ही नन्हा मेहमान आया था। यह बच्ची सावित्री की परनातिन थी। जिसकी डिलीविरी घर पर ही हुई। लेकिन आजकल घर पर डिलीविरी के लिए सरकार ने रोक के साथ-साथ कई जागरुकता अभियान का भी आयोजन...
From Akhlaq to Vohra: Tracing India’s Lingering Tragedy of Lynchings, Amid Calls for Justice and Political Accountability
Mohammed Ramees, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Around 10:30 PM on September 28, 2015, 50-year-old Akhlaq was brutally beaten and dragged by a frenzied mob fuelled by rumours of beef consumption. This horrifying incident received widespread coverage from both national and international media outlets, shocking the nation with its brutality.
Eight years later, in June alone, six people fell victim to mob lynchings,...
Tragic Lynching Cases in Gujarat and Aligarh Spark Calls for Justice and Legislative Reform Amid Political Silence
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Salman Vohra, 23, had planned a bike ride with his one-month-pregnant wife on a quiet Sunday. However, a sudden change of plans led him to a cricket match instead, a decision that would tragically cost him his life. On June 22, in Anand, Gujarat, known for its milk production, Vohra's distinctive attire — a white kurta...
From Tragedy to Triumph: How a Delhi-based IITian Empowering Survivors of Violence Through Education and Entrepreneurship
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth, TwoCircles.net
On February 16, 2024, 36-year-old Sajida, a mother of six, received the most
devastating news of her life. Her husband, Mohammad Junaid, the sole breadwinner
of the family, along with his cousin, Nasir, had tragically passed away. They were
brutally killed in a premeditated attack by cow vigilante goons. She was horrified to
learn that her husband had been...
Journalists Face Legal Persecution Amid Criticism of Anti-Lynching Laws: Upholding Press Freedom Amidst Controversy
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: On a tranquil Sunday morning, Zakir Ali Tyagi, an independent journalist, was roused from slumber by the persistent ringing of his phone — a fellow journalist extending congratulations for a newly lodged FIR against him. This was not an unfamiliar scenario for Ali; in fact, such incidents had become so commonplace that his colleagues now greeted...
Hidden Struggles of Aspiring Doctors in India: Navigating Competition, Corruption and Infrastructure Challenges
Shriya Sharma, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Medicine has historically stood as one of the most esteemed professions worldwide. The allure of perpetual learning and the fulfilment derived from easing human suffering serve as primary motivations for students opting for medicine over other careers promising quicker and more stable financial rewards. The excitement of exploring the mysteries of life at various levels —...
Caste Dynamics in Bihar Politics: Spotlight on Kushwaha Influence Amidst Shifting Alliances and Marginalized Muslims
M.I. Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: More than any other social group, the Kushawaha, an agrarian caste belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC), has become highly sought after by both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in Bihar. Both political factions are actively vying to secure their support.
Despite constituting only 4.27%...
Fanning Communal Flames? Analysing Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Post-election Rhetoric Against Minorities
Arshad Ahmed, TwoCircles.net
Guwahati: In a recent speech at a felicitation program, celebrating the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma repeatedly labelled Bengal-origin Muslims in the state as “communal”.
Clearly implicating the Bengal-origin Muslim community without naming them explicitly, he stated, “I say it with pride that...
Unveiling Muslim Perspectives: Election Dynamics, Governance Challenges and Continued Atrocities
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The 2024 Lok Sabha election results, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured victory with the backing of its coalition, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), but fell short of a majority on its own, mark a significant democratic shift, particularly concerning minorities, notably Muslims. TwoCircles.net spoke to the members of the community to know their perspectives...
The Uphill Battle to Rejuvenate the Bahujan Samaj Party: Aakash Anand’s Daunting Task
Asad Rizvi, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: Rejuvenating the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) will be a formidable challenge for Aakash Anand. Despite his reinstatement as the national coordinator of the BSP, his earlier removal from this position during the general elections significantly undermined his credibility, feel those close to the party.
BSP supremo has once again appointed her nephew Anand as her successor and party...
Foxconn’s Discriminatory Hiring Practices: Undermining Women’s Empowerment in India
Sanjana Chawla, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: A startling revelation regarding Foxconn’s alleged discriminatory hiring policies at its Apple iPhone plant in India has come to light. Shockingly, the company has systematically barred married women from employment opportunities at its assembling facilities, justifying this discriminatory practice by citing supposed heightened risk factors associated with familial responsibilities. This exposé has reverberated across the industry, shining a...
Fading Glory: Khrew’s Transformation from Saffron Capital to Sparse Cultivation
Mohammad Aatif Ammad Kanth and Hamaad Habibullah, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: Khrew in Kashmir’s Pampore town, which is known for its lush saffron fields, once thrived with abundant blooms. However, the emergence of nearby cement factories has precipitated a decline in farming of the world’s most expensive spice. “For generations, we cultivated saffron and enjoyed substantial profits. But with the increasing number of...
Underrepresentation and Expectations: Challenges and Hopes for Muslim MPs in India’s 18th Lok Sabha
Md Kaifee Alam, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Despite being a crucial vote bank for many parties, the number of Muslim Members of Parliament (MPs) has consistently remained low over the years. In this 18th Lok Sabha, it reached its second-lowest count ever. The current House of the People includes a total of 24 Muslim MPs, with two independents lawmakers, which is two fewer than...
Surviving Against the Odds: The Journey of Surendra — a Homeless TB Survivor in Delhi
Shobha Shukla, Bobby Ramakant
New Delhi: After enduring debilitating tuberculosis (TB) symptoms for over a year, a migrant homeless man received life-saving assistance from a community health worker. Thanks to timely intervention, he was eventually diagnosed with lung TB, started treatment, quit alcohol and even survived one of Delhi’s worst floods during his recovery, ultimately achieving a cure.
Surendra migrated to Delhi...
Eid’s Quiet Mourning: Unseen Tears of Families of Delhi Riots Accused Held Under UAPA for Years
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: In a poignant lament, 60-year-old Sayyad Tasneef Hussain spoke softly, his voice laden with grief that has settled deep within his heart over time. “Chashm-o chiragh to hai kisi aur ke liye, apne naseeb mai hai andhere likhe hue (eye and lamp are for someone else, in my fate, darkness is inscribed),” he said, recalling the sher-o-shayari...
Justice Niyay Bindu Faces Online Trolling for Kejriwal Bail Decision, Right-wing Critics Question Her Integrity as a Judge
Snobar and Sajid Raina, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The decision by Special Judge Niyay Bindu to grant bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the city’s excise policy case has ignited a substantial backlash online. Supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and influential figures on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) have expressed strong opposition towards the judge. Critics argue that the judge...
Unanswered Calls: Himachal Government and Congress Silence Amid Muslim’s Shop Vandalism at Nahan
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
Nahan (Himachal Pradesh): On June 19, a day after Eid al-Adha, a garment shop in the Himachal Pradesh city of Nahan was vandalized and looted allegedly by Hindutva groups. This followed after the shop owner’s WhatsApp status featured photos of an animal sacrifice. Despite police presence, a mob forcibly entered the shop, threw out clothes and chanted slogans...
Modi’s Rhetorical Shift: Examining the Absence of Muslim References in PM’s Recent Speeches
Atika Sayeed, TwoCircles.net
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent public addresses have notably steered clear of any mention of Muslims, a departure from his past rhetoric where Muslim-related topics featured intermittently. This shift warrants thorough examination due to its potential implications for India’s democratic landscape.
During Modi’s previous electoral campaigns, he frequently employed divisive language that portrayed Muslims as a privileged minority...
Towards Unity: Shahanshah Naqvi’s Call and Shia-Sunni Harmony in Contemporary Lucknow
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: On a humid afternoon in the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Maulana Shanshah Naqvi, a distinguished Shia scholar from Pakistan, addressed a crowd at Asafi Masjid on June 10 with fervour and passion. His hour-long speech passionately advocated for unity between Shias and Sunnis — a perennial theme resonating through the centuries-old arches.
“Sunni meri jaan hai,...
Resilience and Identity: Refugee Women in India Navigate Challenges Through Intersectional Feminism
Syed Muskan and Kulsoom Faiz, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The intersectional feminist approach illuminates the myriad issues confronting migrant women globally. As per the latest report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Refugee Population Statistics Database, India hosts over 46,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers, with women constituting 46% of this population. The refugees and asylum seekers in India...
From Hope to Despair: NEET-UG 2024 Exam Results Leave Students Disheartened, Mentally Harassed
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on June 21 once more refused to halt National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET-UG 2024 counselling amidst a significant controversy surrounding alleged irregularities in conducting the medical entrance examination. The apex court has instead issued a notice to the National Testing Agency (NTA).
It stayed proceedings related to paper-leak allegations in the Rajasthan, Calcutta...
Patna: Nitish Kumar’s Son Nishant Kumar Poised to Enter Bihar Politics, Challenging Established Dynasties
M.I. Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: Young Tejashwi Yadav, Chirag Paswan and Santosh Suman may soon face competition in Bihar’s caste-ridden politics from another young man: Nishant Kumar, the only son of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and president of the ruling Janata Dal (United) or JD-U. Speculation is rife that Nishant will soon enter politics, fueled by reports from within the JD-U indicating...
Communal Unrest in Telangana’s Medak: How Police Passivity Escalated Clash Over Eid’s Sacrificial Animals
Nikhat Fatima, TwoCircles.net
Hyderabad: Communal tensions flared in Telangana’s Medak district on June 16 following clashes over the procurement of sacrificial animals by two madrasas — Minhaj Ul Uloom Madrasa and Madeenat Ul Uloom. Allegations that the animals were cows, considered sacred in Hinduism, led to confrontations despite assurances from the authorities of the religious seminaries that the cattle were oxen.
The...
Shifting Allegiances: Dalits in Uttar Pradesh Explore ASP and Congress Amidst BSP’s Woes
Asad Rizvi, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: Amid the Bahujan Samaj Party’s (BSP) existential crisis, Dalits seem to have begun exploring new political alternatives. They are apparently weighing their options between the Congress and the newly formed Azad Samaj Party-Kanshiram (ASP-Kanshiram).The community’s disenchantment with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seemingly evident. At the same time, they are also reluctant to align with the...
‘Limiting Our Future’: Students from Marginalised Communities Condemn Maharashtra’s Revised Scholarship Requirements
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Scholarship, aimed at supporting marginalized students from Maharashtra pursuing education abroad, has recently undergone significant revisions. Previously, the scholarship required Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Other Backward Class (OBC) students to achieve a 60% academic score, while SC students needed 55%. The updated criteria now mandate a minimum academic score of...
‘A Year of Hard Work Wasted’: Students Rage as UGC-NET Exam Canceled Amid Allegations of Paper Leak
Musheera Ashraf, TwoCircles.net
Saharanpur (Uttar Pradesh): Twenty-five-year-old Shaheen, determined to secure a Ph.D. seat, chose to remain in her hostel room in Hyderabad for her exams despite Eid festivities back home in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, where her family resides 1,600 kilometers away. They supported her journey with meager financial resources. Confident of her success in this year’s University Grants Commission–National Eligibility Test...
Congress Launches Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Wayanad, Aims to Strengthen Electoral Presence in Kerala
Mohammed Ramees, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra announced her electoral debut in the upcoming Lok Sabha bypolls from Wayanad, Kerala, surprising many after Rahul Gandhi's anticipated decision to relinquish the seat.
During a post-election rally in Wayanad on June 12, Rahul Gandhi remarked, “I have a dilemma before me, whether I should represent Wayanad or Raebareli. What I...
Lowest Muslim Representation in Six Decades: Only 4.4% of MPs in 18th Lok Sabha are Muslim Despite Community Making Up 15% of Country’s Population
TCN News
New Delhi: The eighteenth Lok Sabha has the lowest representation of Muslims in six decades, with less than 5% of its members identifying as Muslims, despite the community constituting over 15% of India’s population. Presently, there are 24 Muslim MPs (4.4%) in the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament). This record low comes despite a notable increase in the...
Right-Wing Duplicity: Protesting Eid Al-Adha Sacrifices, Promoting Meat Exports Internationally
Huneza Khan, TwoCircles.net
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): As Eid al-Adha approaches, right-wing organizations and animal rights advocacy groups begin advocating for a vegan festival — condemning animal sacrifices as cruel. PETA India, for instance, called for the deletion of Section 28 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960, arguing that sacrifices inflict unnecessary pain and suffering on animals and are...
Madhya Pradesh: Stark Contrast as 11 Muslim Homes Leveled, 16 Others Spared Amid Beef Suspicions
Adnan Ali, TwoCircles.net
Mandla (Madhya Pradesh): In a controversial move, the Mandla district administration in Madhya Pradesh demolished the homes of 11 Muslim residents of Bhainswal village on June 15 following the recovery of meat, suspected to be beef, from their refrigerators. All the homes are owned by members of the Qureshi community. The demolition has left at least 50 members...
Gender Representation Declines: India Elects 74 Women MPs in 2024, Down from 78 in 2019
Sakshi Srivastava, TwoCircles.net
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India elected 74 women MPs, down from 78 in 2019, indicating a decrease in women's representation. Despite progress over the decades, achieving gender parity in the Indian Parliament remains a gradual and uneven process.
New Delhi: In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India elected 74 women MPs, four fewer than the 78 elected...
Communal Tensions Grip Odisha’s Balasore: Allegations of Cow Slaughter and Water Turning ‘Red’ Spark Curfew
TCN News
New Delhi: Tensions escalated late night on June 17 at Balasore town in Odisha, leading to the imposition of a curfew following a clash between two communities earlier in the day. The conflict erupted amid allegations of cow slaughter and reports of water bodies turning red, believed by some to be linked to the alleged slaughter.
Initial investigations indicate the...
From 2010 to 2024: UAPA Charges Against Arundhati Roy Spark Backlash
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: On June 14, 2024, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena granted sanctions to prosecute noted writer Arundhati Roy and former Central University of Kashmir professor Dr Sheikh Showkat Hussain under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act or UAPA. The charges stem from alleged incendiary speeches delivered at a 2010 seminar in support of Kashmir separatism, as confirmed...
Lucknow Fascinated: Rahul Gandhi’s Display Sparks Surge in Demand for Pocket Constitution Edition
TCN News
Lucknow: A leather-bound copy of the Constitution, measuring approximately 20 centimetres in length and nine centimetres in breadth, has strong ties to Lucknow through its publishers, who first printed it in 2009. This copy gained prominence during the Lok Sabha elections when former Congress President Rahul Gandhi frequently displayed it.
New agency PTI has quoted the Eastern Book Company as...
Bihar’s Healthcare Crisis: Dalit Woman Struggles for Kidney Transplant After Tragic Surgery
MI Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: There appears to be no hope for justice for Sunita Devi, a Dalit woman from Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district, who allegedly had both kidneys removed at a private clinic nearly two years ago. Disappointed by the lack of support, she is now turning to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for help to undergo a kidney transplant and survive.
“Modiji is...
India’s $111 Billion Remittance Inflow: Triumph or Symptom of Economic Challenges?
Shriya Sharma, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The landmark World Migration Report 2024, released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on May 10, 2024 and corroborated by data from the World Bank, highlighted that international remittances surged from an estimated USD 128 billion in 2000 to USD 831 billion in 2022. In 2022 alone, migrants globally sent an estimated USD 831 billion in...
How Muslims Received OBC Quotas in Karnataka: Understanding Historical Background and Legal Challenges
TCN News
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a campaign rally in Rajasthan’s Tonk-Sawai Madhopur Lok Sabha constituency on April 23, had accused the Congress party of reallocating reservation benefits meant for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Class (OBCs) to Muslims through covert means. He had linked the allegation to his broader claim that...
From Imam to MP: Mohibbullah Nadvi’s Surprising Victory in Uttar Pradesh’s Rampur
TCN News
New Delhi: Mohibbullah Nadvi’s journey to victory in the general elections from Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, was a tale of unexpected twists and challenges. Initially not the preferred candidate of the Samajwadi Party (SP), he filed his nomination papers on the final day (March 27).
Nadvi, who has spent nearly two decades serving as an imam (prayer leader) at Delhi’s...
From Homemaker to Entrepreneur: Asiya Begum’s Inspiring Journey in Indoor Mushroom Cultivation and Rooftop Vegetable Farming
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: In a region where unemployment among youth is a pressing issue, Asiya Begum, a 29-year-old woman from North Kashmir, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration. Through her innovative indoor mushroom farming techniques and rooftop vegetable cultivation, she has not only gained recognition but also established a thriving livelihood.
Living in the quaint village of Lankrishipora in Bandipora...
Pratapgarh in Turmoil: Murder of Renowned Cleric Sparks Outrage, Residents Demand Swift Justice
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: On June 8, 67-year-old Maulana Farooq was brutally murdered in his native village Sonpur, under the jurisdiction of the Jethwara police station in Uttar Pradesh’s Pratapgarh district. The shocking incident has ignited significant tension among locals, who have taken to the streets, demanding immediate justice and the apprehension of those responsible.
Izhar, a resident of Pratapgarh and...
Unexpected Triumph: Engineer Rashid’s Electoral Victory Alters Kashmir’s Political Trajectory
Syed Taqui Haider
Srinagar: Engineer Rashid’s surprising victory over political stalwart Umar Abdullah in Baramulla constituency has reverberated throughout Kashmir's political landscape. The unexpected outcome challenges conventional wisdom and signals a profound shift in the priorities and aspirations of the valley’s voters.
In 2019, Abdul Rashid, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, was booked by the National Investigative Agency (NIA) under the...
Inclusive Living Challenge: Muslim Resident Faces Opposition in Vadodara Housing Complex
TCN News
New Delhi: A 44-year-old Muslim woman employed with the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Skill Development eagerly anticipated moving into a dwelling unit allocated to her at Harni in Vadodara Municipal Corporation’s low-income group housing complex under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana back in 2017. She looked forward to residing in an inclusive neighborhood with her then-minor son.
However, before she...
Empowering Taste and Women Entrepreneurs: Doodhpathri’s Culinary Queens in J&K Redefine Tradition
Mehar Zargar, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: Amidst the picturesque scenery of Doodhpathri in Jammu Kashmir’s Budgam district, where lush meadows meet flowing streams, a remarkable story unfolds. Here, dozens of women entrepreneurs run stalls, serving up not just delicious food but also breaking barriers and setting examples. One such entrepreneur, Afroza Bano, juggles kneading dough, cooking rotis and serving customers — all while...
Nitish Kumar’s Quest: Will the ‘Kingmaker’ Secure Special Status for Bihar After 18 Years?
M.I. Khan, TwoCircles.net
Patna: After playing a pivotal role in supporting the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar now stands at a critical juncture to leverage this opportunity for the maximum benefit of his state, which grapples with poverty and backwardness.
As the president of the...
Hijab Hurdle: Professor’s Resignation Roils Kolkata College
Snobar, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: The resignation of Sanjeeda Quader, an assistant law professor at LJD Law College, a private institution in Kolkata, has ignited a fierce debate. Quader alleged that she was compelled to resign due to the college’s restriction against her wearing a hijab while teaching.
She began wearing the headscarf on April 1, coinciding with the beginning of Ramadan, a...
From Struggle to Success: How Samajwadi Party’s Policy Reforms and Youth Appeal Won Over Uttar Pradesh
Sanjana Chawla, TwoCircles.net
Lucknow: The 2024 general elections have reshaped the nation's political landscape, with the surprising resurgence of the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh — a state known for its fierce political rivalries.
In a remarkable turn of events, the SP clinched victory with 37 seats, overshadowing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won in 35 constituencies. This dramatic reversal...
Divisive Rhetoric to Ethical Quagmires: Women Politicians Under the Spotlight
TCN News
New Delhi: In the aftermath of the recent elections, several women politicians have come under intense scrutiny for their controversial actions and statements during their campaigns. These incidents have sparked a debate on the ethical conduct expected from public figures, especially those in positions of power and influence.
One such instance involves Madhvi Latha, who contested from Hyderabad on...
Murder and Mystery: Silence Shrouds Tragic Tale of a Dalit Family in Bhopal
TCN Correspondent
Bhopal: Following the deaths of three members in the past one year, silence prevails at Raghuvir Ahirwar’s home. This Dalit family lives on the outskirts of Naunagir village in Badohia area of Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district.
Besides his wife, he had three sons and one daughter. Last year, his youngest son, Nitin, was murdered. Subsequently, his brother, Rajendra, was killed...
Thirsty Streets in Photos: The Plight of Kusumpur Pahari Amid Delhi’s Water Crisis
Anushka Kogta and Mohsin Javed, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Nestled within a 1 km radius of the upscale enclave of Vasant Vihar, Kusumpur Pahari grapples with persistent water supply challenges. For four decades, its residents have endured the absence of running water from their taps. According to a recent World Bank report, 163 million Indians lack access to safe drinking water, with...
Press Under Siege? The Caravan Journalists Face Legal Wrath Post Mob Assault
Sidra Fatima, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Three years after being assaulted by a Hindutva mob in northeast Delhi, three journalists from The Caravan have been booked under serious criminal charges. They have been accused of outraging the modesty of a woman and promoting communal enmity, raising significant concerns over press freedom in the country.
The incident occurred on August 11, 2020, when...
Anger Boils Over: Students Demand Justice Amid NEET Result Controversy
Snobar Khan, TwoCircles.net
New Delhi: Amid widespread dissatisfaction following the release of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET-UG 2024 results on June 4, hundreds of students staged a protest in front of the Ministry of Education on June 10 against the suspected irregularities surrounding the pre-medical entrance examination.
Emerging at around 11 am, a unified cohort of students displayed banners emblazoned...
From Struggles to Success: Inspiring Stories of Kashmir’s NEET Qualifiers
Tauseef Ahmad, TwoCircles.net
Srinagar: The National Testing Agency (NTA) recently announced the results of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2024 for admissions into various undergraduate courses in medical colleges across the country.
In Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 48,545 candidates registered for NEET 2024, with 48,228 appearing for the exam and 24,565 qualifying. This marks an improvement from 2023, when 20,564...