Strong reactions arise as Congress faces court order over controversial video of Prime Minister Modi.
In a recent development, the Patna High Court has directed the Congress party to remove a video that allegedly tarnishes the reputation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his late mother, Heeraben Modi. The 36-second video, created using artificial intelligence, was shared on September 10 and depicted the Prime Minister dreaming of his mother criticizing him for his political decisions in Bihar, particularly with upcoming Assembly elections in the state expected in October or November. Following a first information report filed regarding the video, Congress asserted that it did not intend to disrespect either the Prime Minister or his mother.
In another significant case, the Gauhati High Court has dismissed a petition requesting an investigation into the alleged custodial deaths of three men from the Hmar community in Assam’s Cachar district. These individuals were reportedly killed during an encounter with police on July 17, 2024, shortly after their arrest on suspicion of militant activities. The families of the deceased sought a probe conducted by officers outside of Assam, arguing for independence from local authorities. However, the court noted that the matter had already been referred to the National Human Rights Commission and an additional superintendent of police in a neighboring district. The court expressed confidence that the investigation would not be conducted in a biased manner. Nonetheless, the National Human Rights Commission had previously closed the case in March, based on a magisterial inquiry, a decision that contradicted its own guidelines which typically mandate a judicial inquiry into suspected custodial deaths.
On the international front, the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice has announced plans for a 12-hour “siege” of the Indian consulate in Vancouver, Canada, scheduled for Thursday. The organization has urged Indian-Canadians to avoid visiting the diplomatic mission for their safety. This date coincides with the two-year anniversary of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion in Parliament regarding credible allegations linking Indian government agents to the assassination of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Amidst these developments, questions arise regarding the differing levels of support for the Khalistan movement among Sikhs abroad compared to those residing in India. Furthermore, the Supreme Court of India has instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management to explore alternatives to a blanket construction ban during winter months in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region, which is aimed at addressing air pollution. The court emphasized that such prohibitions adversely affect the livelihoods of daily wage workers. It has directed the air quality panel to engage with state authorities to devise concrete pollution prevention strategies and mandated that the states of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan fill vacancies in their pollution control boards within three months. The court also indicated that strict measures, including possible arrests, may be necessary to deter stubble burning among farmers.
