Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi tweeted, "From today, we are entering Pujya Bapu's 150 the anniversary year. It is a great opportunity for all of us to fulfil his dreams."

He will also attend the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention (MGISC) at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. MGISC has been a 4-day international conference that has brought together Sanitation Ministers and other leaders in WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) from around the world.

As the nation is celebrating the 150th anniversary of iconic freedom fighter of the country a number of events have been lined up to mark the day.

The National Gandhi Museum at Rajghat launched a series of programmes, including "recreated heartbeats" of the father of the nation, kickstarting the year-long celebrations to mark his 150th birth anniversary.

The "recreated heartbeats" has been formed by digitalising the electrocardiography (ECG) details of Mahatma Gandhi and it can be heard through a headphone, Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Balram Jakhar, said.

Three monuments -- Gol Gumbad, Bijri Khan and Paik tombs -- &nbsp;in the national capital will also be illuminated with colours of the national flag to mark the anniversary for seven days starting from today.

A nationwide campaign call, 'CHANGE150' by LetterFarms, a non-profit organisation has also been launched which is aimed to mobilize over a million change ideas from youngsters around India inspired by Bapu's change mantra.

The NGO is inviting the youth of India to handwrite one change that they passionately wish to see in the world on a postcard, over the next 12 months. Those ideas will then be presented to the decision makers of the country including President and Prime Minister, governors and state chief ministers.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi tweeted, "From today, we are entering Pujya Bapu's 150 the anniversary year.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi tweeted, "From today, we are entering Pujya Bapu's 150 the anniversary year. It is a great opportunity for all of us to fulfil his dreams." He will also attend the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention (MGISC) at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. MGISC has been a 4-day international conference that has brought together Sanitation Ministers and other leaders in WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) from around the world. As the nation is celebrating the 150th anniversary of iconic freedom fighter of the country a number of events have been lined up to mark the day. The National Gandhi Museum at Rajghat launched a series of programmes, including "recreated heartbeats" of the father of the nation, kickstarting the year-long celebrations to mark his 150th birth anniversary. The "recreated heartbeats" has been formed by digitalising the electrocardiography (ECG) details of Mahatma Gandhi and it can be heard through a headphone, Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Balram Jakhar, said. Three monuments -- Gol Gumbad, Bijri Khan and Paik tombs -- in the national capital will also be illuminated with colours of the national flag to mark the anniversary for seven days starting from today. A nationwide campaign call, 'CHANGE150' by LetterFarms, a non-profit organisation has also been launched which is aimed to mobilize over a million change ideas from youngsters around India inspired by Bapu's change mantra. The NGO is inviting the youth of India to handwrite one change that they passionately wish to see in the world on a postcard, over the next 12 months. Those ideas will then be presented to the decision makers of the country including President and Prime Minister, governors and state chief ministers.

Tributes pour in from far and wide on Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birthday

Half a dozen influential US lawmakers, including four Indian Americans, have moved a resolution in the US House of Representatives to posthumously award the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal to Mahatma Gandhi in recognition of his promotion of peace and non-violence.

Introduced in the US House of Representatives by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney from New York on September 23, the resolution (H R 6916) is co-sponsored by four Indian American lawmakers in the House – Ami Bera, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal.

Tulsi Gabbard, who is the current co-chair of the House Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans is also one the co-sponsors of the resolution, which has been sent to the Committee on Financial Services and Committee on House Administration for necessary action.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honour given by the US Congress and very few foreigners have been recipients of this award. Prominent among those include Mother Teresa (1997), Nelson Mandela (1998), Pope John Paul II (2000), the Dalai Lama (2006), Aung San Suu Kyi (2008), Muhammad Yunus (2010) and Shimon Peres (2014).

The announcement in this regard was made by Maloney during the popular India Day Parade in New York in August.

“Mahatma Gandhi’s historic Satyagraha movement of non-violent resistance inspired a nation and the world. His example energises us to devote ourselves to the service of others,” she said.

“His legacy inspired civil rights movements around the globe, from Martin Luther King’s movement for racial equality to Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid. As a public servant, I am inspired everyday by his courage and example. Let us all follow Gandhi’s directive to ‘be the change you wish to see in the world’,” Maloney said.

“As India and the world commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, we applaud and greatly appreciate the initiative of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney of New York for introducing legislation in the US Congress to honour the memory of the Mahatma, a person who inspired countless millions all over the world to take the path of truth, peace and non-violence,” said Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India in New York.

Half a dozen influential US lawmakers, including four Indian Americans, have moved a resolution in the US House of Representatives to posthumously award the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal to Mahatma Gandhi in recognition of his promotion of peace and non-violence.

Half a dozen influential US lawmakers, including four Indian Americans, have moved a resolution in the US House of Representatives to posthumously award the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal to Mahatma Gandhi in recognition of his promotion of peace and non-violence. Introduced in the US House of Representatives by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney from New York on September 23, the resolution (H R 6916) is co-sponsored by four Indian American lawmakers in the House – Ami Bera, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal. Tulsi Gabbard, who is the current co-chair of the House Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans is also one the co-sponsors of the resolution, which has been sent to the Committee on Financial Services and Committee on House Administration for necessary action. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honour given by the US Congress and very few foreigners have been recipients of this award. Prominent among those include Mother Teresa (1997), Nelson Mandela (1998), Pope John Paul II (2000), the Dalai Lama (2006), Aung San Suu Kyi (2008), Muhammad Yunus (2010) and Shimon Peres (2014). The announcement in this regard was made by Maloney during the popular India Day Parade in New York in August. “Mahatma Gandhi’s historic Satyagraha movement of non-violent resistance inspired a nation and the world. His example energises us to devote ourselves to the service of others,” she said. “His legacy inspired civil rights movements around the globe, from Martin Luther King’s movement for racial equality to Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid. As a public servant, I am inspired everyday by his courage and example. Let us all follow Gandhi’s directive to ‘be the change you wish to see in the world’,” Maloney said. “As India and the world commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, we applaud and greatly appreciate the initiative of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney of New York for introducing legislation in the US Congress to honour the memory of the Mahatma, a person who inspired countless millions all over the world to take the path of truth, peace and non-violence,” said Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India in New York.

Lawmakers move to posthumously award US Congressional Gold Medal to Mahatma Gandhi

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres who is on a three-day visit to India participated in the 150th birth anniversary of India's iconic freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi on Tuesday.

He visited Raj Ghat and laid a wreath to honour Gandhi.

The UN chief will also speak at a closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Conference along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He will also participate in the International Solar Alliance Assembly and a meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association energy ministers.

The UN Chief&nbsp;arrived in the country on Monday and formally inaugurated the UN House in the national capital.

On his visit, Guterres said that he was delighted to be back to Delhi and wished enormous success in the deepening of the cooperation between India and the United Nations.

During his three-day stay, he is expected to discuss key global issues such as climate change and terrorism with PM Modi. He will also meet Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with other senior leaders of the country.

Guterres is also scheduled to deliver a lecture at the India Habitat Centre on the theme 'Global challenges, global solutions'.

Guterres had visited the country, earlier in 2016, months before his election as the Secretary-General.

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres who is on a three-day visit to India participated in the 150th birth anniversary of India's iconic freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi on Tuesday.

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres who is on a three-day visit to India participated in the 150th birth anniversary of India's iconic freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi on Tuesday. He visited Raj Ghat and laid a wreath to honour Gandhi. The UN chief will also speak at a closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Conference along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He will also participate in the International Solar Alliance Assembly and a meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association energy ministers. The UN Chief arrived in the country on Monday and formally inaugurated the UN House in the national capital. On his visit, Guterres said that he was delighted to be back to Delhi and wished enormous success in the deepening of the cooperation between India and the United Nations. During his three-day stay, he is expected to discuss key global issues such as climate change and terrorism with PM Modi. He will also meet Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with other senior leaders of the country. Guterres is also scheduled to deliver a lecture at the India Habitat Centre on the theme 'Global challenges, global solutions'. Guterres had visited the country, earlier in 2016, months before his election as the Secretary-General.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary

The act of Kasturba Gandhi of keeping Rs four with her 'unlawfully' had irked the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and prompted him to write an article about her lapse, records show.

At a time when the world is set to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary Tuesday, a 1929 article which appeared in 'Navajivan', a weekly newspaper published by Gandhi, reveals his uncompromising stand for truth and ethics.

In the article titled, "My Sorrow, My Shame", Gandhi had criticised the shortcomings of some of the inmates, including his wife Kasturba at his ashram in Ahmedabad in Gujarat.

He also gave an explanation at the outset on why he decided to write this article.

"Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that it would be a breach of duty if I did not," Gandhi pointed out.

The 'Father of the Nation" said he had not hesitated to count many of the merits of Kasturba in his autobiography, but "she has got weaknesses too which mar these virtues."

Although she had given away all the money considering it to be the duty of a wife, "an ununderstandable, worldly desire still persists" in her, the Mahatma noted.

"A year or two back, she (Kasturba) had kept with her one or two hundred rupees which were received as presents from various persons on various occasions," he wrote.

"The rule (at the ashram) is that she cannot keep anything like hers, even when it is given for her. So this keeping of money was unlawful," Gandhiji said.

With a tinge of sarcasm, he said his wife's "delinquency" was detected following the arrival of some thieves at the ashram.

"Fortunately for her and for the mandir (ashram), once thieves entered her room. They did not get anything, but her delinquency was detected owing to their coming," he wrote.

Though Kasturba repented sincerely, it was proved "short-lived", Mahatma said, adding that a real change of heart had not taken place and the "fascination for treasuring money" had not vanished.

"Some days back, some strangers presented four rupees. Instead of giving away the money to the office, according to the usual rule, she kept it with herself."

Referring to the act as "theft" in the article, Gandhi said one of the inmates had later pointed to her about the mistake, leaving her repentant. 
In all humility, she gave back the money and vowed that such a thing would not be repeated.

"I believe hers was a honest repentance. She has taken a vow that she would leave me and the mandir, if any other lapse committed in the past is detected, or if she is caught doing the same thing again in future.

The mandir has accepted her repentance," Gandhi added.

Freedom fighter and staunch Gandhian Ayyappan Pillai said to be 106 years old, said there is nothing to be amused if Kasturba's trivial lapse formed the subject of Mahatma's article.

"Gandhiji was a living legend and avatar of truthfulness. He was the personification of self-righteousness and wanted everyone around him to be morally correct and transparent," he said.

Gandhi, however, had also waxed eloquent about the virtues and good qualities of his wife in the same article.

"I consider her life to be pure. She has sacrificed a great deal thinking it to be her duty as a wife... She has not stood in the way of my renunciation," Gandhiji added.&nbsp;

The act of Kasturba Gandhi of keeping Rs four with her 'unlawfully' had irked the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and prompted him to write an article about her lapse, records show.

The act of Kasturba Gandhi of keeping Rs four with her 'unlawfully' had irked the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and prompted him to write an article about her lapse, records show. At a time when the world is set to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary Tuesday, a 1929 article which appeared in 'Navajivan', a weekly newspaper published by Gandhi, reveals his uncompromising stand for truth and ethics. In the article titled, "My Sorrow, My Shame", Gandhi had criticised the shortcomings of some of the inmates, including his wife Kasturba at his ashram in Ahmedabad in Gujarat. He also gave an explanation at the outset on why he decided to write this article. "Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that it would be a breach of duty if I did not," Gandhi pointed out. The 'Father of the Nation" said he had not hesitated to count many of the merits of Kasturba in his autobiography, but "she has got weaknesses too which mar these virtues." Although she had given away all the money considering it to be the duty of a wife, "an ununderstandable, worldly desire still persists" in her, the Mahatma noted. "A year or two back, she (Kasturba) had kept with her one or two hundred rupees which were received as presents from various persons on various occasions," he wrote. "The rule (at the ashram) is that she cannot keep anything like hers, even when it is given for her. So this keeping of money was unlawful," Gandhiji said. With a tinge of sarcasm, he said his wife's "delinquency" was detected following the arrival of some thieves at the ashram. "Fortunately for her and for the mandir (ashram), once thieves entered her room. They did not get anything, but her delinquency was detected owing to their coming," he wrote. Though Kasturba repented sincerely, it was proved "short-lived", Mahatma said, adding that a real change of heart had not taken place and the "fascination for treasuring money" had not vanished. "Some days back, some strangers presented four rupees. Instead of giving away the money to the office, according to the usual rule, she kept it with herself." Referring to the act as "theft" in the article, Gandhi said one of the inmates had later pointed to her about the mistake, leaving her repentant. In all humility, she gave back the money and vowed that such a thing would not be repeated. "I believe hers was a honest repentance. She has taken a vow that she would leave me and the mandir, if any other lapse committed in the past is detected, or if she is caught doing the same thing again in future. The mandir has accepted her repentance," Gandhi added. Freedom fighter and staunch Gandhian Ayyappan Pillai said to be 106 years old, said there is nothing to be amused if Kasturba's trivial lapse formed the subject of Mahatma's article. "Gandhiji was a living legend and avatar of truthfulness. He was the personification of self-righteousness and wanted everyone around him to be morally correct and transparent," he said. Gandhi, however, had also waxed eloquent about the virtues and good qualities of his wife in the same article. "I consider her life to be pure. She has sacrificed a great deal thinking it to be her duty as a wife... She has not stood in the way of my renunciation," Gandhiji added.

Gandhi Jayanti 2018: When Bapu was irked by his wife for unlawfully keeping Rs 4

Continuing the celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, Missions abroad highlighted the relevance of Gandhi by projecting his message in the form of an LED video displayed on iconic buildings in several countries.

More than 120 locations executed the LED projection, including iconic locations like Piccadilly Circus in London, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Welt Museum in Vienna, Buda Castle in Budapest, Palazzo Senatorio in Rome, Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, and Museo de Arte in Peru, among others, in the evening of October 2.

The projections showcased the relevance of Gandhi's life and philosophy in the present day and his ability to inspire the present generation

The film consisted of key moments taken from Gandhi's life- his quotes, everyday sayings, discourses and initiatives- presented in a visual narrative using line-art style of hand drawn illustrations layered with water colour and ink wash that symbolised and represented the simplicity that was Gandhi's life and his teachings.

The illustrations seamlessly transition in a thread-like fashion, shaping different scenes, gave a visual meaning to the lesson or initiative showcased in the narrative.

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To celebrate 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Missions abroad will continue to highlight his relevance through projecting his message in the form of an LED video on iconic buildings or on other prominent locations. It'll be organised in evening of 2 Oct. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GandhiJayanti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GandhiJayanti</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mb6dZRtyZV">pic.twitter.com/Mb6dZRtyZV</a>
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In Nepal, the celebrations were commemorated with an LED projection depicting life events of Gandhi at the front facade of Rashtriya Sabha Griha, Bhrikuti Mandap, where the Kathmandu Metropolitan City had hosted a Civic Reception for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit to Nepal in May this year.

The LED projection here included slides of important life events of Gandhi, depicting the philosophy of non-violence and inclusive society.

The event was inaugurated by Acting Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Nepal, Ishwar Pokhrel, in the presence of India's Ambassador to Nepal, Manjeev Singh Puri, and other eminent individuals.

Continuing the celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, Missions abroad highlighted the relevance of Gandhi by projecting his message in the form of an LED video displayed on iconic buildings in several countries.

Continuing the celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, Missions abroad highlighted the relevance of Gandhi by projecting his message in the form of an LED video displayed on iconic buildings in several countries. More than 120 locations executed the LED projection, including iconic locations like Piccadilly Circus in London, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Welt Museum in Vienna, Buda Castle in Budapest, Palazzo Senatorio in Rome, Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, and Museo de Arte in Peru, among others, in the evening of October 2. The projections showcased the relevance of Gandhi's life and philosophy in the present day and his ability to inspire the present generation The film consisted of key moments taken from Gandhi's life- his quotes, everyday sayings, discourses and initiatives- presented in a visual narrative using line-art style of hand drawn illustrations layered with water colour and ink wash that symbolised and represented the simplicity that was Gandhi's life and his teachings. The illustrations seamlessly transition in a thread-like fashion, shaping different scenes, gave a visual meaning to the lesson or initiative showcased in the narrative. To celebrate 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Missions abroad will continue to highlight his relevance through projecting his message in the form of an LED video on iconic buildings or on other prominent locations. It'll be organised in evening of 2 Oct. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/Mb6dZRtyZV — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 × In Nepal, the celebrations were commemorated with an LED projection depicting life events of Gandhi at the front facade of Rashtriya Sabha Griha, Bhrikuti Mandap, where the Kathmandu Metropolitan City had hosted a Civic Reception for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit to Nepal in May this year. The LED projection here included slides of important life events of Gandhi, depicting the philosophy of non-violence and inclusive society. The event was inaugurated by Acting Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Nepal, Ishwar Pokhrel, in the presence of India's Ambassador to Nepal, Manjeev Singh Puri, and other eminent individuals.

Mahatma Gandhi's teachings globalised through LED projections

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP and the RSS, the Congress on Tuesday called for a "new freedom struggle" against what it called the Modi government's politics of "polarisation and intimidation", as it held a meeting of its apex decision-making body CWC at a venue where 'Quit India' resolution was adopted in 1942 under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership.

Holding its meeting at Sewagram Ashram's Mahadev Bhavan in Wardha district of Maharashtra on Mahatma Gandhi's 149th birth anniversary, the Congress Working Committee, headed by the party chief Rahul Gandhi, also condemned the use of force against protesting farmers on their way to the national capital.

The CWC had last met in Sevagram in March 1948 and before that under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi in 1942 to adopt the 'Quit India' resolution.

In a resolution adopted at the meeting, the Congress alleged the RSS had a "blatant hypocrisy" that vilified and rejected Mahatma Gandhi during his lifetime and it was now brazenly proclaiming itself to be his champion.

"It is its (RSS's) ideology that was responsible for spreading the atmosphere of hate that led to the Mahatma's tragic assassination," Congress chief spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said quoting the resolution.

Another resolution adopted at the meeting condemned the use of force on farmers on their protest march towards the national capital from all parts of the country on Tuesday.

The CWS meeting was presided over by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and was attended by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh among other leaders.

The CWC resolution accused Modi government of "crushing debate and dissent" and "imposing artificial uniformity in a nation of extraordinary diversity".

Stating that a new freedom struggle is the urgent need of the hour, the resolution called for a massive movement to combat "the forces of divisiveness and prejudice, (and) to confront the Modi government whose politics is the politics of threat and intimidation, the politics of polarisation and divisiveness, the politics of crushing debate and dissent."&nbsp;

The Congress accused the Modi government of pursuing the politics of "hatred, vendetta, deceit, fraud and subterfuge" and subverting all constitutional values.

In a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, the resolution said that "appropriating" Mahatma's legacy may be politically expedient for some, "but imbibing his principles and values in thought, word and deed is impossible for those who see in the Mahatma only electoral opportunities".

"One may borrow the Mahatma's spectacles for publicity campaigns, but implementing his vision will remain unfulfilled unless his principles are followed," the resolution said in an apparent reference to the logo for the government's 'Swachh Bharat' campaign.

The CWC resolved to expose "the hollowness and doublespeak of the ideologies and organisations who have never believed in, let alone followed the Gandhian path of truth, tolerance, harmony and non-violence".

The CWC also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary.

"'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' is not a slogan but a cardinal principle of faith for the Congress party," it stated.

The Congress, which has been trying to project itself as the pivot to head a united front against the BJP in future polls, said it embodies the true ethos of inclusive and secular "Bharat".

"It is only the Congress that is deeply committed to the principles of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. The CWC resolves that this fundamental message must be renewed and propagated to all corners of India, especially to the younger generation, by every member of the Congress party," the resolution stated.

The Congress further said the "ideological battle" has to be unswerving, irrespective of elections.

It called upon the people to fight the politics of "fear, intimidation, lies and deception without "bending".

It also recalled Sevagram having served as the "karmbhoomi" of Mahatma Gandhi for over a decade from the time he set up his ashram there in April 1936 and also holsted the CWC meeting which had adopted the "Quit India" resolution on July 14, 1942.

The quit India movement was launched a month later under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.

Referring to the use of force on farmers on their way to Delhi, Surjewala said they were seeking loan waiver, doubling of their income and a fair price for their produce.

"Five to 18 per cent GST is levied on fertilisers and farmers want it should be waived," he said.

Surjewala said the Congress would never accept "such atrocities".

"Farmers who had come to seek grievance redressal were beaten up and lathi-charged. Water canons and tear gas were also used. We condemn the autocratic Modi government and the prime minister who is drunk with power. We express solidarity with the farmers and resolve to redress their grievances if voted to power," he said.

The CWC also passed a resolution condoling the recent demise of party leaders R K Dhawan and Gurudas Kamat.

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP and the RSS, the Congress on Tuesday called for a "new freedom struggle" against what it called the Modi government's politics of "polarisation and intimidation", as it held a meeting of its apex decision-making body CWC at a venue where 'Quit India' resolution was adopted in 1942 under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership.

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP and the RSS, the Congress on Tuesday called for a "new freedom struggle" against what it called the Modi government's politics of "polarisation and intimidation", as it held a meeting of its apex decision-making body CWC at a venue where 'Quit India' resolution was adopted in 1942 under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership. Holding its meeting at Sewagram Ashram's Mahadev Bhavan in Wardha district of Maharashtra on Mahatma Gandhi's 149th birth anniversary, the Congress Working Committee, headed by the party chief Rahul Gandhi, also condemned the use of force against protesting farmers on their way to the national capital. The CWC had last met in Sevagram in March 1948 and before that under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi in 1942 to adopt the 'Quit India' resolution. In a resolution adopted at the meeting, the Congress alleged the RSS had a "blatant hypocrisy" that vilified and rejected Mahatma Gandhi during his lifetime and it was now brazenly proclaiming itself to be his champion. "It is its (RSS's) ideology that was responsible for spreading the atmosphere of hate that led to the Mahatma's tragic assassination," Congress chief spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said quoting the resolution. Another resolution adopted at the meeting condemned the use of force on farmers on their protest march towards the national capital from all parts of the country on Tuesday. The CWS meeting was presided over by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and was attended by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh among other leaders. The CWC resolution accused Modi government of "crushing debate and dissent" and "imposing artificial uniformity in a nation of extraordinary diversity". Stating that a new freedom struggle is the urgent need of the hour, the resolution called for a massive movement to combat "the forces of divisiveness and prejudice, (and) to confront the Modi government whose politics is the politics of threat and intimidation, the politics of polarisation and divisiveness, the politics of crushing debate and dissent." The Congress accused the Modi government of pursuing the politics of "hatred, vendetta, deceit, fraud and subterfuge" and subverting all constitutional values. In a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, the resolution said that "appropriating" Mahatma's legacy may be politically expedient for some, "but imbibing his principles and values in thought, word and deed is impossible for those who see in the Mahatma only electoral opportunities". "One may borrow the Mahatma's spectacles for publicity campaigns, but implementing his vision will remain unfulfilled unless his principles are followed," the resolution said in an apparent reference to the logo for the government's 'Swachh Bharat' campaign. The CWC resolved to expose "the hollowness and doublespeak of the ideologies and organisations who have never believed in, let alone followed the Gandhian path of truth, tolerance, harmony and non-violence". The CWC also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary. "'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' is not a slogan but a cardinal principle of faith for the Congress party," it stated. The Congress, which has been trying to project itself as the pivot to head a united front against the BJP in future polls, said it embodies the true ethos of inclusive and secular "Bharat". "It is only the Congress that is deeply committed to the principles of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. The CWC resolves that this fundamental message must be renewed and propagated to all corners of India, especially to the younger generation, by every member of the Congress party," the resolution stated. The Congress further said the "ideological battle" has to be unswerving, irrespective of elections. It called upon the people to fight the politics of "fear, intimidation, lies and deception without "bending". It also recalled Sevagram having served as the "karmbhoomi" of Mahatma Gandhi for over a decade from the time he set up his ashram there in April 1936 and also holsted the CWC meeting which had adopted the "Quit India" resolution on July 14, 1942. The quit India movement was launched a month later under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. Referring to the use of force on farmers on their way to Delhi, Surjewala said they were seeking loan waiver, doubling of their income and a fair price for their produce. "Five to 18 per cent GST is levied on fertilisers and farmers want it should be waived," he said. Surjewala said the Congress would never accept "such atrocities". "Farmers who had come to seek grievance redressal were beaten up and lathi-charged. Water canons and tear gas were also used. We condemn the autocratic Modi government and the prime minister who is drunk with power. We express solidarity with the farmers and resolve to redress their grievances if voted to power," he said. The CWC also passed a resolution condoling the recent demise of party leaders R K Dhawan and Gurudas Kamat.

Congress vows 'new freedom struggle' against Modi govt, attacks RSS

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.

The Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was the living example of the change that he sought and yearned for India. His beliefs were deeply rooted in the idea that it is imperative to change oneself before expecting the same to permeate in the immediate surrounding.&nbsp;

One of the heartwarming tales of Gandhi's interaction with a mother and her child speaks volumes about his practice of self-interrogation and inspection. Gandhi was a staunch believer of the fact that without changing oneself, nothing else with ever change.&nbsp;

That is precisely why when a mother came to Bapu complaining about her child's habit of eating excessive jaggery, Gandhi kept asking her to come after a week. The tirade went on for about four weeks when the woman got frustrated and finally inquired after Bapu's intention. Gandhi replied saying that he took four weeks to get rid of his own habit of eating too much jaggery, it is only now that he will now be able to coax and cajole her child into leaving the habit.&nbsp;

Many similar delightful anecdotes from Gandhi's life have been documented&nbsp;in scores of books and journals, these exhibit&nbsp;his teachings and life mantras. &nbsp;

On Bapu's 149th anniversary, let us all take a cue from this little, uplifting tale from his life and pledge to inculcate the change in ourselves first before expecting to see it around us.&nbsp;

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was the living example of the change that he sought and yearned for India.

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was the living example of the change that he sought and yearned for India. His beliefs were deeply rooted in the idea that it is imperative to change oneself before expecting the same to permeate in the immediate surrounding. One of the heartwarming tales of Gandhi's interaction with a mother and her child speaks volumes about his practice of self-interrogation and inspection. Gandhi was a staunch believer of the fact that without changing oneself, nothing else with ever change. That is precisely why when a mother came to Bapu complaining about her child's habit of eating excessive jaggery, Gandhi kept asking her to come after a week. The tirade went on for about four weeks when the woman got frustrated and finally inquired after Bapu's intention. Gandhi replied saying that he took four weeks to get rid of his own habit of eating too much jaggery, it is only now that he will now be able to coax and cajole her child into leaving the habit. Many similar delightful anecdotes from Gandhi's life have been documented in scores of books and journals, these exhibit his teachings and life mantras. On Bapu's 149th anniversary, let us all take a cue from this little, uplifting tale from his life and pledge to inculcate the change in ourselves first before expecting to see it around us.

When Bapu gave up eating jaggery: On Gandhi's 149th anniversary, a heartwarming anecdote from his life 

India’s heritage and culture are often reflected in its currency. Several monuments from Konark Sun Temple to ruins of Hampi have adorned our banknotes. But one thing remained unchanged- the image of Mahatma Gandhi, the only person to have been featured on currency notes. 
&nbsp; 
The Reserve Bank of India, which is responsible for regulating the country’s currency, has so far issued three series of bank notes- the &nbsp;Lion Capital Series (1949), the Mahatma Gandhi Series (1996) and the new Mahatma Gandhi Series (2016). 
&nbsp; 
Currencies are emblematic of a country’s sovereignty that is often reflected by leaders who have played a significant role in their freedom struggle. Pakistan’s currency features its founding father Mohammad Ali Jinnah and China’s features Mao Zedong. 
&nbsp; 
Colonial Indian bank notes had an image of British Emperor George VI and it was imperative to replace it with a symbol of an independent nation. According to the RBI Museum, the first notes were to feature Gandhi. But the final decision went in favour of the Lion Capital at Sarnath - the national emblem of India. 
&nbsp; 
Gandhi eventually featured on the currency notes when the Lion Capital Series was replaced by the Mahatma Gandhi series. It was obvious that Gandhi was the unanimous choice, but there seems to be a limited explanation on why no other public figure featured on the currency notes, later. 
&nbsp; 
The question was posed to former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan. During a lecture in 2014, Rajan was asked why we can’t have scientist Homi J Bhabha or poet Rabindranath Tagore on the rupee notes.

“There are so many great Indians, but of course he (Gandhi), stands head and shoulders above everyone. There are many great Indians that we could get on the notes. But I sense that almost anybody else would be controversial," said Rajan. 
&nbsp; 
Rajan was perhaps right. It’s very difficult to come to a consensus over symbols that could represent a country as diverse as India. In fact, a PIL challenged the validity of the 2000 Rupee notes on the grounds that the numbers were written in Devanagari script instead of international numerals as mandated by the Official Languages Act. 
&nbsp; 
Despite being the body that issues the currency, the RBI has little say over symbols on Rupee notes. The decision is made in consideration with the government. So far, both UPA and NDA governments have favoured Gandhi. 
&nbsp; 
In 2014, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told the Lok Sabha that an RBI panel had rejected suggestions for replacing Gandhi with any other leader. The reason- "No other personality could better represent the ethos of India than Mahatma Gandhi". 
&nbsp; 
Gandhi’s great-grandson and author Tushar Gandhi somewhat agrees with this justification. “Mahatma Gandhi is not just the most renowned leader in India but also a respected international figure and the government may have felt that his values could be reflected through bank notes,” he said. 
&nbsp; 
Unlike coinage, Indian currency notes aren’t overhauled frequently. The government &amp; RBI may find a suitable candidate for our currency notes but Mahatma Gandhi notes are here to stay for quite some time. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India’s heritage and culture are often reflected in its currency. Several monuments from Konark Sun Temple to ruins of Hampi have adorned our banknotes. But one thing remained unchanged- the image of Mahatma Gandhi, the only person to have been featured on currency notes.

India’s heritage and culture are often reflected in its currency. Several monuments from Konark Sun Temple to ruins of Hampi have adorned our banknotes. But one thing remained unchanged- the image of Mahatma Gandhi, the only person to have been featured on currency notes. The Reserve Bank of India, which is responsible for regulating the country’s currency, has so far issued three series of bank notes- the Lion Capital Series (1949), the Mahatma Gandhi Series (1996) and the new Mahatma Gandhi Series (2016). Currencies are emblematic of a country’s sovereignty that is often reflected by leaders who have played a significant role in their freedom struggle. Pakistan’s currency features its founding father Mohammad Ali Jinnah and China’s features Mao Zedong. Colonial Indian bank notes had an image of British Emperor George VI and it was imperative to replace it with a symbol of an independent nation. According to the RBI Museum, the first notes were to feature Gandhi. But the final decision went in favour of the Lion Capital at Sarnath - the national emblem of India. Gandhi eventually featured on the currency notes when the Lion Capital Series was replaced by the Mahatma Gandhi series. It was obvious that Gandhi was the unanimous choice, but there seems to be a limited explanation on why no other public figure featured on the currency notes, later. The question was posed to former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan. During a lecture in 2014, Rajan was asked why we can’t have scientist Homi J Bhabha or poet Rabindranath Tagore on the rupee notes. “There are so many great Indians, but of course he (Gandhi), stands head and shoulders above everyone. There are many great Indians that we could get on the notes. But I sense that almost anybody else would be controversial," said Rajan. Rajan was perhaps right. It’s very difficult to come to a consensus over symbols that could represent a country as diverse as India. In fact, a PIL challenged the validity of the 2000 Rupee notes on the grounds that the numbers were written in Devanagari script instead of international numerals as mandated by the Official Languages Act. Despite being the body that issues the currency, the RBI has little say over symbols on Rupee notes. The decision is made in consideration with the government. So far, both UPA and NDA governments have favoured Gandhi. In 2014, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told the Lok Sabha that an RBI panel had rejected suggestions for replacing Gandhi with any other leader. The reason- "No other personality could better represent the ethos of India than Mahatma Gandhi". Gandhi’s great-grandson and author Tushar Gandhi somewhat agrees with this justification. “Mahatma Gandhi is not just the most renowned leader in India but also a respected international figure and the government may have felt that his values could be reflected through bank notes,” he said. Unlike coinage, Indian currency notes aren’t overhauled frequently. The government & RBI may find a suitable candidate for our currency notes but Mahatma Gandhi notes are here to stay for quite some time. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Mahatma Gandhi is the only leader to feature on currency notes

Artists from more than 124 nations on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti have contributed musically in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi through his most loved bhajan 'Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye'.

This bhajan recitation is a part of the 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the medley version of the famous bhajan during the Closing ceremony of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Conference in the presence of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Gutierrez, External Affairs Minister Smt Sushma Swaraj, Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation Sushri Uma Bharti and other prominent personalities.

In pics: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/gandhis-global-influence-477">Global influence of Mahatma Gandhi</a>

Written by famous poet Narsinh Mehta back in the 15th century, the bhajan Vaishnava Jana To has become synonymous with Mahatma Gandhi.

Adopted by Gandhi into the routine of his prayers, the bhajan has been sung by several different artists over the years. It talks about equality, respecting others and helping those who are in misery.

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Bapu unites the world! 
 
Among the highlights of today’s programme was the excellent rendition of Bapu’s favourite 'Vaishnav Jan To' by artists from 124 nations. 
 
This is a must hear. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gandhi150?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gandhi150</a> <a href="https://t.co/BBaXK0TOf9">pic.twitter.com/BBaXK0TOf9</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1047025155606794240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The bhajan was originally written in Gujarati. Here are the lyrics and English translation.&nbsp;

Vaishnav jan to tene kahiye je&nbsp; 
Peed&nbsp;paraayi jaaNe re&nbsp; 
Par-dukhkhe upkaar kare toye&nbsp; 
Man abhimaan na aaNe re&nbsp;

Sakal&nbsp;lok maan sahune vande&nbsp; 
Nindaa na kare keni re&nbsp; 
Vaach kaachh man nishchal&nbsp;raakhe&nbsp; 
Dhan-dhan janani teni re&nbsp;

Sam-drishti ne trishna tyaagi&nbsp; 
Par-stree jene maat re&nbsp; 
Jivha thaki asatya na bole&nbsp; 
Par-dhan nav jhaalee haath re

Moh-maaya vyaape nahi jene&nbsp; 
Dridh vairaagya jena man maan re&nbsp; 
Ram naam shoon taaLi laagi&nbsp; 
SakaL tirath tena tan maan re&nbsp;

Van-lobhi ne kapat-rahit chhe&nbsp; 
Kaam-krodh nivaarya re&nbsp; 
Bhane Narsaiyyo tenun darshan karta&nbsp; 
KuL ekoter taarya re&nbsp;

English Translation

One who is a Vaishnav (Devotee of Vishnu) 
Knows the pain of others 
Does good to others 
without letting pride enter his mind.

A Vaishnav, Tolerates and praises the the entire world. 
Does not speak ill of others 
Keeps his promises, actions and thoughts pure 
your mother is blessed indeed.

A Vaishnav sees everything equally, rejects greed and avarice 
respects women as he respects his own mother 
though his tongue may tire he will utter no untruth 
Never touches the property of others.

A Vaishnav does not succumb to worldly attachments 
he has renounced lust of all types and anger 
The poet Narsi will like to see such a person by whose virtue, 
the entire family gets salvation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Artists from more than 124 nations on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti have contributed musically in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi through his most loved bhajan 'Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye'.

Artists from more than 124 nations on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti have contributed musically in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi through his most loved bhajan 'Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye'. This bhajan recitation is a part of the 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the medley version of the famous bhajan during the Closing ceremony of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Conference in the presence of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Gutierrez, External Affairs Minister Smt Sushma Swaraj, Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation Sushri Uma Bharti and other prominent personalities. In pics: Global influence of Mahatma Gandhi Written by famous poet Narsinh Mehta back in the 15th century, the bhajan Vaishnava Jana To has become synonymous with Mahatma Gandhi. Adopted by Gandhi into the routine of his prayers, the bhajan has been sung by several different artists over the years. It talks about equality, respecting others and helping those who are in misery. Bapu unites the world! Among the highlights of today’s programme was the excellent rendition of Bapu’s favourite 'Vaishnav Jan To' by artists from 124 nations. This is a must hear. #Gandhi150 pic.twitter.com/BBaXK0TOf9 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2018 × The bhajan was originally written in Gujarati. Here are the lyrics and English translation. Vaishnav jan to tene kahiye je Peed paraayi jaaNe re Par-dukhkhe upkaar kare toye Man abhimaan na aaNe re Sakal lok maan sahune vande Nindaa na kare keni re Vaach kaachh man nishchal raakhe Dhan-dhan janani teni re Sam-drishti ne trishna tyaagi Par-stree jene maat re Jivha thaki asatya na bole Par-dhan nav jhaalee haath re Moh-maaya vyaape nahi jene Dridh vairaagya jena man maan re Ram naam shoon taaLi laagi SakaL tirath tena tan maan re Van-lobhi ne kapat-rahit chhe Kaam-krodh nivaarya re Bhane Narsaiyyo tenun darshan karta KuL ekoter taarya re English Translation One who is a Vaishnav (Devotee of Vishnu) Knows the pain of others Does good to others without letting pride enter his mind. A Vaishnav, Tolerates and praises the the entire world. Does not speak ill of others Keeps his promises, actions and thoughts pure your mother is blessed indeed. A Vaishnav sees everything equally, rejects greed and avarice respects women as he respects his own mother though his tongue may tire he will utter no untruth Never touches the property of others. A Vaishnav does not succumb to worldly attachments he has renounced lust of all types and anger The poet Narsi will like to see such a person by whose virtue, the entire family gets salvation. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Singers from 124 nations pay tribute to Gandhi by singing his favourite hymn 

It was about half a century ago when the image of Mahatma Gandhi first appeared on the commemorative currency note of rupees 100 on the occasion birth centenary of the father of the nation.

Although after the Independence in 1947, it was felt that the British King's portrait ought to be replaced by a picture of Mahatma Gandhi, it took quite some time for the government of the day to reach a consensus on the issue.

In the meantime, King's portrait was replaced by Lion Capital at Sarnath in lieu of the Gandhi Portrait.

The Reserve Bank in 1969 came out with a commemorative note of Rs 100 showing Mahatma Gandhi seated in the backdrop of the Sevagram Ashram.

But the portrait of the father of the nation made its regular appearance on currency notes only in 1987 when the series of rupee 500 currency notes showing a smiling Gandhi was launched in October that year.

Since then Mahatma Gandhi's portrait has been used regularly on currency notes of different denominations.

Before Gandhi's portrait, many designs and images were used in on currency notes.

In 1949 the then government brought out the new design Re 1 note with Ashoka Pillar.

In 1953, Hindi was displayed prominently on new notes. The debate regarding the Hindi plural of Rupaya was settled in favour of Rupiye. 
High denomination notes (Rs 1,000, Rs 5,000, Rs 10,000) were reintroduced in 1954. The Rs 1000 currency note displayed the motif of Tanjore Temple, Rs 5000 Gateway of India and Rs 10,000 Lion Capital, Ashoka Pillar. These high denomination currency notes were, however, demonetised in 1978.

The 1980s saw a completely new set of notes. The motifs on these notes marked a departure from the earlier ones.

The emphasis was on symbols of Science &amp; Technology (Aryabhatta on the Rs 2 note), Progress (the Oil Rig on Re 1 and Farm Mechanisation on Rs 5) and a change in orientation to Indian Art forms on the Rs 20 and the Rs 10 notes (Konark Wheel, Peacock).

With the advancement of reprographic techniques, traditional security features were deemed inadequate.

The RBI came out with additional features and a new 'Mahatma Gandhi Series' was introduced in 1996.

These included changed watermark, windowed security thread, latent image and intaglio features for the visually handicapped.&nbsp;

It was about half a century ago when the image of Mahatma Gandhi first appeared on the commemorative currency note of rupees 100 on the occasion birth centenary of the father of the nation.

It was about half a century ago when the image of Mahatma Gandhi first appeared on the commemorative currency note of rupees 100 on the occasion birth centenary of the father of the nation. Although after the Independence in 1947, it was felt that the British King's portrait ought to be replaced by a picture of Mahatma Gandhi, it took quite some time for the government of the day to reach a consensus on the issue. In the meantime, King's portrait was replaced by Lion Capital at Sarnath in lieu of the Gandhi Portrait. The Reserve Bank in 1969 came out with a commemorative note of Rs 100 showing Mahatma Gandhi seated in the backdrop of the Sevagram Ashram. But the portrait of the father of the nation made its regular appearance on currency notes only in 1987 when the series of rupee 500 currency notes showing a smiling Gandhi was launched in October that year. Since then Mahatma Gandhi's portrait has been used regularly on currency notes of different denominations. Before Gandhi's portrait, many designs and images were used in on currency notes. In 1949 the then government brought out the new design Re 1 note with Ashoka Pillar. In 1953, Hindi was displayed prominently on new notes. The debate regarding the Hindi plural of Rupaya was settled in favour of Rupiye. High denomination notes (Rs 1,000, Rs 5,000, Rs 10,000) were reintroduced in 1954. The Rs 1000 currency note displayed the motif of Tanjore Temple, Rs 5000 Gateway of India and Rs 10,000 Lion Capital, Ashoka Pillar. These high denomination currency notes were, however, demonetised in 1978. The 1980s saw a completely new set of notes. The motifs on these notes marked a departure from the earlier ones. The emphasis was on symbols of Science & Technology (Aryabhatta on the Rs 2 note), Progress (the Oil Rig on Re 1 and Farm Mechanisation on Rs 5) and a change in orientation to Indian Art forms on the Rs 20 and the Rs 10 notes (Konark Wheel, Peacock). With the advancement of reprographic techniques, traditional security features were deemed inadequate. The RBI came out with additional features and a new 'Mahatma Gandhi Series' was introduced in 1996. These included changed watermark, windowed security thread, latent image and intaglio features for the visually handicapped.

Gandhi first appeared on currency note on his birth centenary

A ban on sale, storage and manufacture of plastic came into force in six cities of Odisha Tuesday, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 149th birth anniversary, a senior official said here.

The state government has set a target of making the state plastic-free over the next two years, he said.

"In the first phase, the ban has been enforced in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Rourkela and the seaside town of Puri. The administration has been asked to ensure that the order is enforced in the cities in line with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's instructions," he stated.

The CM had said in July that plastic prohibition would come into effect across the state over the next two years.

According to the state government's directive, no one will be able to sell, manufacture and import or stock plastic and polythene items once the ban comes into force.

Also, drinking water pouches, plastic water bottles with less than 500 ml capacity, polythene bags, disposable plastic cups, plates, glasses, bowls, spoons, and plastic straws, too, will no longer be allowed anywhere in the state.

The departments of Housing and Urban Development and Panchayati Raj have been asked to execute the order in urban and rural areas respectively, while the Forest and

Environment Department has been tasked with monitoring its implementation.

Those violating the order will undergo a five-year jail term with a fine of up to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh. The state has also decided to introduce a penalty provision of Rs 2000-Rs 3000 for small traders.

"Traders dealing in plastic bags have been given time till November 30 to do away with the remaining products. Appropriate action would be taken if anyone is found selling these items," the senior official explained.

The district administration has been directed to conduct surprise raids to check violation of norms, he said.

"People have been asked not to carry any plastic or polythene bags to any public place. All religious institutions, hotels and restaurants have been told to strictly abide by the order," the official maintained.

The government is also mooting a buy-back policy, under which consumers would be given cash for selling off their plastic bottles.

The official, however, clarified that there would be no ban on blood transfusion bags, plastic used in nurseries, horticulture, healthcare, medicines, polythene more than 50 micron, water bottles of more than 500 ml capacity and thermocol used for transportation of electronic goods.

An office-bearer at Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation said teams comprising administrators of Labour Department, Odisha State Pollution Control Board and the police have been asked to create awareness among the people about the harmful effects of plastic in the state capital.

In Puri, a team led by District Collector Jyoti Prakash Das raided shops near Jagannath Temple in the morning and warned the traders and shopkeepers against use of polythene bags.

"As of now, our objective is to make people aware of the ill-effects of plastic. The response has been quite encouraging so far as around 80 per cent of people were seen using alternative means," Das added.&nbsp;

A ban on sale, storage and manufacture of plastic came into force in six cities of Odisha Tuesday, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 149th birth anniversary, a senior official said here.

A ban on sale, storage and manufacture of plastic came into force in six cities of Odisha Tuesday, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 149th birth anniversary, a senior official said here. The state government has set a target of making the state plastic-free over the next two years, he said. "In the first phase, the ban has been enforced in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Rourkela and the seaside town of Puri. The administration has been asked to ensure that the order is enforced in the cities in line with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's instructions," he stated. The CM had said in July that plastic prohibition would come into effect across the state over the next two years. According to the state government's directive, no one will be able to sell, manufacture and import or stock plastic and polythene items once the ban comes into force. Also, drinking water pouches, plastic water bottles with less than 500 ml capacity, polythene bags, disposable plastic cups, plates, glasses, bowls, spoons, and plastic straws, too, will no longer be allowed anywhere in the state. The departments of Housing and Urban Development and Panchayati Raj have been asked to execute the order in urban and rural areas respectively, while the Forest and Environment Department has been tasked with monitoring its implementation. Those violating the order will undergo a five-year jail term with a fine of up to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh. The state has also decided to introduce a penalty provision of Rs 2000-Rs 3000 for small traders. "Traders dealing in plastic bags have been given time till November 30 to do away with the remaining products. Appropriate action would be taken if anyone is found selling these items," the senior official explained. The district administration has been directed to conduct surprise raids to check violation of norms, he said. "People have been asked not to carry any plastic or polythene bags to any public place. All religious institutions, hotels and restaurants have been told to strictly abide by the order," the official maintained. The government is also mooting a buy-back policy, under which consumers would be given cash for selling off their plastic bottles. The official, however, clarified that there would be no ban on blood transfusion bags, plastic used in nurseries, horticulture, healthcare, medicines, polythene more than 50 micron, water bottles of more than 500 ml capacity and thermocol used for transportation of electronic goods. An office-bearer at Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation said teams comprising administrators of Labour Department, Odisha State Pollution Control Board and the police have been asked to create awareness among the people about the harmful effects of plastic in the state capital. In Puri, a team led by District Collector Jyoti Prakash Das raided shops near Jagannath Temple in the morning and warned the traders and shopkeepers against use of polythene bags. "As of now, our objective is to make people aware of the ill-effects of plastic. The response has been quite encouraging so far as around 80 per cent of people were seen using alternative means," Das added.

Plastic ban enforced in six cities of Odisha on occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday led a foot march here to mark the start of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary celebrations and to give a message against what the party called the "atmosphere of fear" in the country.

Congress leaders like K C Venugopal, R P N Singh, state unit president Ashok Chavan, Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and others joined Rahul Gandhi as he began the march after garlanding a statue of the Father of the Nation near the district collector's office here.

The march culminated at the Circus Ground (in Ramnagar locality) here, where the Congress president was set to address a rally.

Rahul Gandhi walked for around 50 minutes before reaching the rally venue, a Congress leader said.

The party leadership has converged at the Sevagram village, located around 10 km from Wardha district headquarters, to attend the meeting of the Congress Working

Committee (CWC), the highest decision-making body of the party.

The Congress is seeking return to power at the centre and also in Maharashtra following its drubbing at the hands of the BJP in the 2014 Lok Sabha and state Assembly polls.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday led a foot march here to mark the start of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary celebrations and to give a message against what the party called the "atmosphere of fear" in the country.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday led a foot march here to mark the start of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary celebrations and to give a message against what the party called the "atmosphere of fear" in the country. Congress leaders like K C Venugopal, R P N Singh, state unit president Ashok Chavan, Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and others joined Rahul Gandhi as he began the march after garlanding a statue of the Father of the Nation near the district collector's office here. The march culminated at the Circus Ground (in Ramnagar locality) here, where the Congress president was set to address a rally. Rahul Gandhi walked for around 50 minutes before reaching the rally venue, a Congress leader said. The party leadership has converged at the Sevagram village, located around 10 km from Wardha district headquarters, to attend the meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), the highest decision-making body of the party. The Congress is seeking return to power at the centre and also in Maharashtra following its drubbing at the hands of the BJP in the 2014 Lok Sabha and state Assembly polls.

Rahul leads foot march on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary

Indian Railways has planted?13.26 lakh trees over 1,300 km of its network from September 15 to October 2, as part of the celebrations to mark the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, an official statement said Tuesday.

The Railways ministry was observing 'Swachhta Hi Sewa Pakhwada' across its network during the period. On Tuesday, Railways administered Swachhta (cleanliness) pledge to its personnel.

Two days each were proposed to be devoted to Swachh Station, Swachh Train, Swachh Neer, Swachh Parisar, Swachh Samwad, Swachh Awareness across the entire network of Indian Railways, the statement said.

It said detailed guidelines for the 'Pakhwada' (fortnight) were formulated and circulated to each unit of Indian Railways.

During the Swachchta Pakhwada, tree plantation on over 1,300 km on railway network was done, the statement said.

Cleaning of 43 stations associated with Mahatma Gandhi and 28 stations near iconic places and golden triangle Delhi, Agra, Jaipur was undertaken during the fortnight, it said.

Railway stations associated with the father of the nation were painted thematically. The Swachhta logo and the national flag were displayed on all coaches, the statement said.&nbsp;

Swachh Bharat Mission is the Centre's flagship programme that aims to clean up the streets, roads and infrastructure in the country.

Indian Railways has planted?13.26 lakh trees over 1,300 km of its network from September 15 to October 2, as part of the celebrations to mark the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, an official statement said Tuesday.

Indian Railways has planted?13.26 lakh trees over 1,300 km of its network from September 15 to October 2, as part of the celebrations to mark the 149th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, an official statement said Tuesday. The Railways ministry was observing 'Swachhta Hi Sewa Pakhwada' across its network during the period. On Tuesday, Railways administered Swachhta (cleanliness) pledge to its personnel. Two days each were proposed to be devoted to Swachh Station, Swachh Train, Swachh Neer, Swachh Parisar, Swachh Samwad, Swachh Awareness across the entire network of Indian Railways, the statement said. It said detailed guidelines for the 'Pakhwada' (fortnight) were formulated and circulated to each unit of Indian Railways. During the Swachchta Pakhwada, tree plantation on over 1,300 km on railway network was done, the statement said. Cleaning of 43 stations associated with Mahatma Gandhi and 28 stations near iconic places and golden triangle Delhi, Agra, Jaipur was undertaken during the fortnight, it said. Railway stations associated with the father of the nation were painted thematically. The Swachhta logo and the national flag were displayed on all coaches, the statement said. Swachh Bharat Mission is the Centre's flagship programme that aims to clean up the streets, roads and infrastructure in the country.

Railways plants more than 13 lakh trees over 1,300 km of its network from Sep 15-Oct 2

On Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, the Congress will discuss the country's social, political and cultural atmosphere and pass a resolution urging people to follow his vision of love, peace and brotherhood.

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) will meet at Mahatma Gandhi's Sevagram Ashram at Wardha in Maharashtra on October 2, where former prime minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party president Rahul Gandhi will lead the deliberations.

The CWC is the top decision-making body of the grand old party. On the birth anniversary of the father of the nation, the Congress is seeking to send a political message to the country ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

The party is on an all-out mission to defeat the BJP in the next general elections and is utilising every occasion to attack the ruling party and the RSS.

"On Gandhiji's birth anniversary, the CWC under Rahul Gandhi's presidentship will meet and discuss the current social political and cultural atmosphere under the BJP and Narendra Modi's rule, and will send Gandhiji's message of love, peace and communal harmony from Bapu's ashram, where he spent the last 12 years of his life," AICC General Secretary Ashok Gehlot told PTI.

He said, "Mahatma Gandhi message has assumed significant in today's India which is being increasingly gripped by the politics of hatred and communal violence being spread by the BJP and the RSS."

On October 2, top Congress leadership will pay their respects to Gandhiji at his samadhi in Delhi and will then attend a prayer meeting at his Wardha ashram.&nbsp;

Gehlot said a peace march will also be taken out by Congress workers in the afternoon followed by a public meeting at Wardha. Top Congress leaders from across the country will attend the rally.

According to a senior party leader, the Congress will hold its working committee meeting in Wardha on October 2 to mark the beginning of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary celebrations and will give a message against the "atmosphere of fear, hate and violence prevailing in the country".

"Now fascist forces have have started taking the name of Mahatma Gandhi. Those who do not believe in democracy, those who believe in violence, these forces are indulging in politics over his name," the leader said.

"In my entire political career, I have never seen such a political atmosphere --every family, every household is living in fear. There is an atmosphere of hate, there is an atmosphere of violence, innocents are being killed, economy has collapsed, farmers are committing suicide," he alleged.

Claiming that messages of hate were being sent "from the top", Gehlot said it was only befitting that a message to remove the "atmosphere of fear, hate and violence" is given from a place where the Quit India resolution was passed.

On Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, the Congress will discuss the country's social, political and cultural atmosphere and pass a resolution urging people to follow his vision of love, peace and brotherhood.

On Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, the Congress will discuss the country's social, political and cultural atmosphere and pass a resolution urging people to follow his vision of love, peace and brotherhood. The Congress Working Committee (CWC) will meet at Mahatma Gandhi's Sevagram Ashram at Wardha in Maharashtra on October 2, where former prime minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party president Rahul Gandhi will lead the deliberations. The CWC is the top decision-making body of the grand old party. On the birth anniversary of the father of the nation, the Congress is seeking to send a political message to the country ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The party is on an all-out mission to defeat the BJP in the next general elections and is utilising every occasion to attack the ruling party and the RSS. "On Gandhiji's birth anniversary, the CWC under Rahul Gandhi's presidentship will meet and discuss the current social political and cultural atmosphere under the BJP and Narendra Modi's rule, and will send Gandhiji's message of love, peace and communal harmony from Bapu's ashram, where he spent the last 12 years of his life," AICC General Secretary Ashok Gehlot told PTI. He said, "Mahatma Gandhi message has assumed significant in today's India which is being increasingly gripped by the politics of hatred and communal violence being spread by the BJP and the RSS." On October 2, top Congress leadership will pay their respects to Gandhiji at his samadhi in Delhi and will then attend a prayer meeting at his Wardha ashram. Gehlot said a peace march will also be taken out by Congress workers in the afternoon followed by a public meeting at Wardha. Top Congress leaders from across the country will attend the rally. According to a senior party leader, the Congress will hold its working committee meeting in Wardha on October 2 to mark the beginning of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary celebrations and will give a message against the "atmosphere of fear, hate and violence prevailing in the country". "Now fascist forces have have started taking the name of Mahatma Gandhi. Those who do not believe in democracy, those who believe in violence, these forces are indulging in politics over his name," the leader said. "In my entire political career, I have never seen such a political atmosphere --every family, every household is living in fear. There is an atmosphere of hate, there is an atmosphere of violence, innocents are being killed, economy has collapsed, farmers are committing suicide," he alleged. Claiming that messages of hate were being sent "from the top", Gehlot said it was only befitting that a message to remove the "atmosphere of fear, hate and violence" is given from a place where the Quit India resolution was passed.

CWC to discuss India's social, political, cultural atmosphere on October 2

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village.&nbsp;

The Indian troops and their presence in the village is one of the reasons villagers feel secure and consider Indian forces as their own.

Aiming to promote Gandhi's principle of non-violence among the youths of war-ravaged Lebanon, the Indian contingent of the United Nations interim force, with the help of local municipality in Lebanon, has built a park in his memory.

Samih Al Bekai is the mayor of Ebel es saqi. He has been a teacher for 40 years and used to teach his students about Mahatma Gandhi. Moved by the&nbsp;unwavering cooperation of Indian men in blue helmets, he offered the land for Mahatma Gandhi park.&nbsp;

He said, now he is experiencing the teachings of Gandhi after seeing the Indian peacekeepers risking their lives to sustain peace in the conflicted area of southern Lebanon.

"India has a very positive impact in Ebel es saqi and the villagers see Indians with great respect. All the Indian battalions have shown the same teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and are spreading his teachings… They are the peacekeepers and are sacrificing their lives to maintain peace for years," he continued.

In Southern Lebanon, due to an unending conflict in the area of Golan Heights, several people lost their lives when Israel attacked and occupied the area near Ebel es saqi, perhaps Mahatma Gandhi's teachings of austerity, peace and non-violence are even more important than before in parts of southern Lebanon.

The park, in Ebel es saqi, is the symbol of friendship between India and Lebanon and their common dream of ever-lasting peace for Lebanon.

The Indian contingent has been celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in South Lebanon for the past few years where a series of programmes are organised to make the locals aware of his teachings.

The message of peace, non-violence and co-existence that Gandhi spread throughout the world has inspired not just India but even those countries which have been the victim of unending battles.

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village.

The Indian Army has been serving as peacekeepers under United Nations interim force in Lebanon for decades in the conflict-affected area of Golan Heights and historically important Cheeba village. The Indian troops and their presence in the village is one of the reasons villagers feel secure and consider Indian forces as their own. Aiming to promote Gandhi's principle of non-violence among the youths of war-ravaged Lebanon, the Indian contingent of the United Nations interim force, with the help of local municipality in Lebanon, has built a park in his memory. Samih Al Bekai is the mayor of Ebel es saqi. He has been a teacher for 40 years and used to teach his students about Mahatma Gandhi. Moved by the unwavering cooperation of Indian men in blue helmets, he offered the land for Mahatma Gandhi park. He said, now he is experiencing the teachings of Gandhi after seeing the Indian peacekeepers risking their lives to sustain peace in the conflicted area of southern Lebanon. "India has a very positive impact in Ebel es saqi and the villagers see Indians with great respect. All the Indian battalions have shown the same teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and are spreading his teachings… They are the peacekeepers and are sacrificing their lives to maintain peace for years," he continued. In Southern Lebanon, due to an unending conflict in the area of Golan Heights, several people lost their lives when Israel attacked and occupied the area near Ebel es saqi, perhaps Mahatma Gandhi's teachings of austerity, peace and non-violence are even more important than before in parts of southern Lebanon. The park, in Ebel es saqi, is the symbol of friendship between India and Lebanon and their common dream of ever-lasting peace for Lebanon. The Indian contingent has been celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in South Lebanon for the past few years where a series of programmes are organised to make the locals aware of his teachings. The message of peace, non-violence and co-existence that Gandhi spread throughout the world has inspired not just India but even those countries which have been the victim of unending battles.

Gandhi park opens in southern Lebanon, carries forward Gandhian legacy

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit.

The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019. In 2007, the General Assembly designated 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence.

During his visit, Guterres will formally open the new UN House in New Delhi on October 1. The following morning, the Secretary-General will participate in the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention.

He is also scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, before giving an address at the India Habitat Centre on Global Affairs on the theme "Global challenges, global solutions" on October 2. The same evening, Guterres will take part in the General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance.

On October 3, the Secretary-General will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. In the afternoon, he will visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Guterres will return to New York on October 4.&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit. The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit. The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019. In 2007, the General Assembly designated 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence. During his visit, Guterres will formally open the new UN House in New Delhi on October 1. The following morning, the Secretary-General will participate in the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention. He is also scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, before giving an address at the India Habitat Centre on Global Affairs on the theme "Global challenges, global solutions" on October 2. The same evening, Guterres will take part in the General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance. On October 3, the Secretary-General will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. In the afternoon, he will visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Guterres will return to New York on October 4.

UN Secretary-General Guterres to visit India in October

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has pleaded "not guilty" to the defamation case filed against him by an RSS worker.&nbsp

Rahul entered his plea at a court in Bhiwandi, near Thane in Maharashtra, where he had said at a rally in 2014 that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp

The Bhiwandi court framed charges against Gandhi on Tuesday and set August 10 as the next date of hearing.&nbsp

News reports quoted Rahul as saying the BJP and RSS could slap as many cases as they wanted on him but&nbsp"we will fight them and win".&nbsp

Rahul had earlier approached the Supreme Court asking for the case to be quashed.&nbsp

The court however told Gandhi in 2016 that he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation and would either have to apologise or face trial.&nbsp

Gandhi chose to go to trial.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Rahul entered his plea at a court in Bhiwandi, near Thane in Maharashtra, where he had said at a rally in 2014 that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has pleaded "not guilty" to the defamation case filed against him by an RSS worker. Rahul entered his plea at a court in Bhiwandi, near Thane in Maharashtra, where he had said at a rally in 2014 that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. The Bhiwandi court framed charges against Gandhi on Tuesday and set August 10 as the next date of hearing. News reports quoted Rahul as saying the BJP and RSS could slap as many cases as they wanted on him but "we will fight them and win". Rahul had earlier approached the Supreme Court asking for the case to be quashed. The court however told Gandhi in 2016 that he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation and would either have to apologise or face trial. Gandhi chose to go to trial.

Rahul Gandhi pleads 'not guilty' in RSS defamation case

In a clarion call, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today exhorted party workers with the slogan 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' (L-G, Quit India) , as the ruling Aam Aadmi Party announced a city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi.&nbsp;

Addressing party's ward-level officer-bearers and legislators at his residence here, the chief minister equalled the fight for Delhi's full statehood with the freedom struggle.&nbsp;

In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign.

He said that in 1947, India got freedom and all British viceroys were removed, but in Delhi, L-G was appointed in place of viceroys.

Elaborating on the campaign, Kejriwal said AAP leaders, MLAs and workers will hold meetings at 300 locations in the national capital from June 17 to June 24 in the first phase of the agitation.

In the second phase, AAP has planned to hold party workers' convention at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 1, where the next course of action will be decided, he said.

"Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi (sic)", the chief minister tweeted after the meeting.

The clarion call for full statehood to Delhi comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year.

According to party sources, the ruling party in Delhi is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We would ask people (during meetings) whether there should be people's rule or L-G's rule in Delhi. L-G creates hurdles in our every project, be it the CCTV project or doorstep delivery of ration," Kejriwal said.

During his address, the AAP supremo also pitched for 85 per cent reservation in recruitment for Delhi government departments.&nbsp;

"If we want to open colleges, they (L-G) do not allow. It is not the issue of just development....Our ancestors had also fought for freedom of the country. Delhi gives Rs 1.3 lakh crore tax to the Centre, but we get nothing in lieu of this...

"Every person in Delhi will get good job and every family will get own house if Delhi is given full statehood status," he said.

The chief minister also attacked former chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, alleging that during her government's tenure, people were fed up with inflated water and electricity bills, as well as the poor condition of government hospitals.&nbsp;

"During your (Sheila) tenure, your party's government was at the Centre for ten years and your L-G was also there. I challenge you to run Delhi under Modi's rule for one year," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

His comment came in response to Dikshit's reported statement that she ruled Delhi for 15 years, but never had any conflict with the Centre and L-G during her tenure.

Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai alleged that the BJP and Congress have taken 'U turn' on the issue of full statehood to Delhi.

The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had tabled a government resolution in this regard.

Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in the assembly tomorrow.

In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign.

In a clarion call, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today exhorted party workers with the slogan 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' (L-G, Quit India) , as the ruling Aam Aadmi Party announced a city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi. Addressing party's ward-level officer-bearers and legislators at his residence here, the chief minister equalled the fight for Delhi's full statehood with the freedom struggle. In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign. He said that in 1947, India got freedom and all British viceroys were removed, but in Delhi, L-G was appointed in place of viceroys. Elaborating on the campaign, Kejriwal said AAP leaders, MLAs and workers will hold meetings at 300 locations in the national capital from June 17 to June 24 in the first phase of the agitation. In the second phase, AAP has planned to hold party workers' convention at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 1, where the next course of action will be decided, he said. "Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi (sic)", the chief minister tweeted after the meeting. The clarion call for full statehood to Delhi comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year. According to party sources, the ruling party in Delhi is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during the Lok Sabha elections. "We would ask people (during meetings) whether there should be people's rule or L-G's rule in Delhi. L-G creates hurdles in our every project, be it the CCTV project or doorstep delivery of ration," Kejriwal said. During his address, the AAP supremo also pitched for 85 per cent reservation in recruitment for Delhi government departments. "If we want to open colleges, they (L-G) do not allow. It is not the issue of just development....Our ancestors had also fought for freedom of the country. Delhi gives Rs 1.3 lakh crore tax to the Centre, but we get nothing in lieu of this... "Every person in Delhi will get good job and every family will get own house if Delhi is given full statehood status," he said. The chief minister also attacked former chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, alleging that during her government's tenure, people were fed up with inflated water and electricity bills, as well as the poor condition of government hospitals. "During your (Sheila) tenure, your party's government was at the Centre for ten years and your L-G was also there. I challenge you to run Delhi under Modi's rule for one year," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. His comment came in response to Dikshit's reported statement that she ruled Delhi for 15 years, but never had any conflict with the Centre and L-G during her tenure. Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai alleged that the BJP and Congress have taken 'U turn' on the issue of full statehood to Delhi. The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had tabled a government resolution in this regard. Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in the assembly tomorrow.

AAP announces campaign for full statehood to Delhi

How does one remember Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi? For becoming the leading light of fight against the British? For his writings? For lending the concept of non-violence in the sphere of political action or simply for his compassionate view on how people can live together? I would remember Gandhi on 125th year of Satyagraha for the last reason.

Gandhi's exercise of freedom struggle was both external and internal at the same time. It was different from violent struggles where the object was to target the colonial power through any means so as to force them out of India.

Gandhi on the other hand embarked on self-transformation through public campaign. Making of salt was an act of defiance but it never concluded in violence. Non-violent protest was part of character building process whereby power of protest flew from moral outrage than possibility of physical harm. It never allowed violence to create a vicious circle which was witnessed in many colonised nations which continued way after they had won independence.

Freedom was not an achievement for Gandhi. It was a desire to create Ram Rajya for millions of people who were divided by caste and religion and united by poverty. The idea was not to build Ram Rajya which would exclude people. It was all inclusive. It tried not to create a sense of other to unite the rest. It is for this reason when Nehru and Patel were busy grappling the reign of power, the dejected old man was busy trudging through the riot hit areas of the sub-continent. The sub-continent was partitioned but Gandhi never allowed his grief to turn into bigotry. He ensured that Congress doesn't indulge in it. Gandhi could not control organisations like RSS but he never went after them like a rogue policeman.

Gandhi should be remembered for his idea of India which was not to build an exclusive cultural identity. His idea of India had space for every religion. He did not hunt for internal enemy. Gandhi's struggle was both collective practice and individual practice in honesty, intellectual development, discipline, ecological sustainability and socio-religious tolerance. Today India is caught in the same debate which dominated political narrative before Gandhi was assassinated. Who does India belong to? Who has the first right to India? Who can stay in India and who should leave? Will Hindus have their say in the country? It is for this reason that Gandhi's satyagraha should be remembered.

It was simply against discrimination and segregation. It united people in campaign which became a nation. His campaign united colour and race and created space for citizens. His Satyagraha even neutralised patriarchy by allowing women full participation in public life. It is for this reason that Gandhi's Satyagraha should be remembered.

Lastly, the biggest lesson of Satyagraha and non-violence is that inner demons have to be dealt first because he made all of us realise that those who hunt outer demons and enemies perpetrate worst crimes against humanity. His Satyagraha stood against all these virtues which today are busy making India strong and confident nation.

Gandhi's assassination brought post-Partition madness to halt. The guilt of assassination prevented violence to escalate further. To there is no Gandhi. So it becomes incumbent upon everyone that they pause and recollect as to what was happening on the eve of Partition. It would calm us all.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Gandhi should be remembered for his idea of India which was not to build an exclusive cultural identity.

How does one remember Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi? For becoming the leading light of fight against the British? For his writings? For lending the concept of non-violence in the sphere of political action or simply for his compassionate view on how people can live together? I would remember Gandhi on 125th year of Satyagraha for the last reason. Gandhi's exercise of freedom struggle was both external and internal at the same time. It was different from violent struggles where the object was to target the colonial power through any means so as to force them out of India. Gandhi on the other hand embarked on self-transformation through public campaign. Making of salt was an act of defiance but it never concluded in violence. Non-violent protest was part of character building process whereby power of protest flew from moral outrage than possibility of physical harm. It never allowed violence to create a vicious circle which was witnessed in many colonised nations which continued way after they had won independence. Freedom was not an achievement for Gandhi. It was a desire to create Ram Rajya for millions of people who were divided by caste and religion and united by poverty. The idea was not to build Ram Rajya which would exclude people. It was all inclusive. It tried not to create a sense of other to unite the rest. It is for this reason when Nehru and Patel were busy grappling the reign of power, the dejected old man was busy trudging through the riot hit areas of the sub-continent. The sub-continent was partitioned but Gandhi never allowed his grief to turn into bigotry. He ensured that Congress doesn't indulge in it. Gandhi could not control organisations like RSS but he never went after them like a rogue policeman. Gandhi should be remembered for his idea of India which was not to build an exclusive cultural identity. His idea of India had space for every religion. He did not hunt for internal enemy. Gandhi's struggle was both collective practice and individual practice in honesty, intellectual development, discipline, ecological sustainability and socio-religious tolerance. Today India is caught in the same debate which dominated political narrative before Gandhi was assassinated. Who does India belong to? Who has the first right to India? Who can stay in India and who should leave? Will Hindus have their say in the country? It is for this reason that Gandhi's satyagraha should be remembered. It was simply against discrimination and segregation. It united people in campaign which became a nation. His campaign united colour and race and created space for citizens. His Satyagraha even neutralised patriarchy by allowing women full participation in public life. It is for this reason that Gandhi's Satyagraha should be remembered. Lastly, the biggest lesson of Satyagraha and non-violence is that inner demons have to be dealt first because he made all of us realise that those who hunt outer demons and enemies perpetrate worst crimes against humanity. His Satyagraha stood against all these virtues which today are busy making India strong and confident nation. Gandhi's assassination brought post-Partition madness to halt. The guilt of assassination prevented violence to escalate further. To there is no Gandhi. So it becomes incumbent upon everyone that they pause and recollect as to what was happening on the eve of Partition. It would calm us all. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Remembering Gandhi and 125 years of Satyagraha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore's former premier Goh Chok Tong today jointly unveiled a plaque to pay tribute at the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at the waterfront Clifford pier in the city-state.

Over 250 members of Indian diaspora led by Singapore's Emeritus Minister Goh Chok Tong joined the ceremony at the pier, 70 years after a part of the Mahatma's ashes were immeresed in the Singapore water with a plane showering flowers and petals.

Modi, who is here on the last leg of his three-nation tour, unveiled the plaque on the seafront where some of the Mahatma's ashes were immersed in 1948.

"Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and I unveiled a plaque marking the site where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed at the Clifford Pier in Singapore," Modi tweeted.

"Bapu's message reverberates globally. His thoughts and ideals motivate us to work for the greater good of humanity," he said.

Beautiful renditions of 'Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye' and 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram', two favourite bhajans of Mahatma Gandhi, were sung on the occasion.

"Beautiful musical presentation by Singaporean artists on local instruments of 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram' - another favourite bhajan of Mahatma at Clifford Pier in the presence of Prime Minister Modi," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

After Gandhi's death in 1948, his ashes were sent to various parts of India and the world, including Singapore, for immersion.

Earlier, Modi met Goh, a veteran leader and an advocate of deeper India-Singapore engagement.

"Had a productive meeting with Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong," Modi tweeted.

Modi and Goh unveiled the plaque at the pier, which is now a heritage landmark in the Fullerton Hotel Complex.

"The unveiling of plaque of the Mahatma is remembrance again of Gandhi as a global figure and his relationship with all his Indian diaspora globally. That is the significance of this event," said Ameerali Jumabhoy, a 93-year old Singaporean businessman, who leads Gandhi Jayanti celebration in Singapore every year as a leading members of the Global People of Indian Origin.

Following the unveiling of the plaque, Gandhi's picture carved in gold leaf and framed in table-top were gifted to people who attended today's ceremony.

Later, Modi visited the National Orchid Garden of Singapore where an orchid was named after him.

He then visited Singapore's oldest Hindu temple Sri Mariamman, Chulia mosque in Chinatown and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.&nbsp;

Modi arrived here&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;on the last leg of his three-nation visit.

Modi unveiled the plaque on the seafront where some of the Mahatma's ashes were immersed in 1948

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore's former premier Goh Chok Tong today jointly unveiled a plaque to pay tribute at the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at the waterfront Clifford pier in the city-state. Over 250 members of Indian diaspora led by Singapore's Emeritus Minister Goh Chok Tong joined the ceremony at the pier, 70 years after a part of the Mahatma's ashes were immeresed in the Singapore water with a plane showering flowers and petals. Modi, who is here on the last leg of his three-nation tour, unveiled the plaque on the seafront where some of the Mahatma's ashes were immersed in 1948. "Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and I unveiled a plaque marking the site where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed at the Clifford Pier in Singapore," Modi tweeted. "Bapu's message reverberates globally. His thoughts and ideals motivate us to work for the greater good of humanity," he said. Beautiful renditions of 'Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye' and 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram', two favourite bhajans of Mahatma Gandhi, were sung on the occasion. "Beautiful musical presentation by Singaporean artists on local instruments of 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram' - another favourite bhajan of Mahatma at Clifford Pier in the presence of Prime Minister Modi," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. After Gandhi's death in 1948, his ashes were sent to various parts of India and the world, including Singapore, for immersion. Earlier, Modi met Goh, a veteran leader and an advocate of deeper India-Singapore engagement. "Had a productive meeting with Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong," Modi tweeted. Modi and Goh unveiled the plaque at the pier, which is now a heritage landmark in the Fullerton Hotel Complex. "The unveiling of plaque of the Mahatma is remembrance again of Gandhi as a global figure and his relationship with all his Indian diaspora globally. That is the significance of this event," said Ameerali Jumabhoy, a 93-year old Singaporean businessman, who leads Gandhi Jayanti celebration in Singapore every year as a leading members of the Global People of Indian Origin. Following the unveiling of the plaque, Gandhi's picture carved in gold leaf and framed in table-top were gifted to people who attended today's ceremony. Later, Modi visited the National Orchid Garden of Singapore where an orchid was named after him. He then visited Singapore's oldest Hindu temple Sri Mariamman, Chulia mosque in Chinatown and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. Modi arrived here on Thursday on the last leg of his three-nation visit.

Prime Minister Modi unveils Gandhi's plaque with former Singaporean premier

Each portrait tells a story. A portrait, behind its contours, contains a persona that inspires, stimulates and motivates the beholders to emulate the ideals and ideologies that the former represents. The portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah hanging on the walls of the Students Union office in the Aligarh Muslim University, similarly, hides many stories behind the dust of time gathered around it that contains different message to different people. 
&nbsp; 
Muhammad Ali Jinnah is not just another figure lying in the debris of the history, but one who caused the dismemberment of India in order to create a separate nation on religious line. He gave political expression to a dangerous and dysfunctional "two-nation theory", which was long being propagated in-principle by the likes of Md Iqbal and Sir Syyid Ahmad Khan. Finally, through his unfathomable obstinacy and persistence he became successful in creating the theocratic state of Pakistan but not before programming a madness in which nearly 2 millions were killed and 14 millions were displaced permanently for no fault of their own. Those who lived behind, untouched with the ravages of death or displacement, got a permanent scar on their psyche and a pathological divide in their hearts.

While to the Hindus, Jinnah is a villain who divided India, to the Muslims he comes across as the greatest leader, the undisputed Quaid-i-azam who pulled off a valiant coup on the belligerent Hindus led by an 'obstructionist' Gandhi to create Pakistan for the ummah, an act of valiance comparable to none other than the Rashidun caliphs, who expanded the reach of Islam immediately after the Prophet's death.

But Jinnah was not like that, and at least till 1936 he wasn't a Muslim bigot. Jinnah was a free spirit caged within a Muslim body. Born an Ismaili Shia, Jinnah was as much a Muslim as Jawaharlal Nehru was a Hindu. With cigar, wine, western clothes and British mannerism he wasn't someone who fits the bill of a jihadi fighter struggling in the way of Allah for establishing an Islamic state for his followers. He never entertained the obscurantism of Islam or its fanatic traditions.

So, how suddenly Jinnah becomes fanatic? What makes him fall to the notion of partition of a country, in which he lived all through his life, on religious line? The answer lies in two factors.

The first factor that drew him to a separate Muslim state was the fear that the western democracy, as being adopted gradually in India, would be detrimental for the Muslims because of their small population. Constituting less than one third of the total population, Jinnah believed the Muslims would ever remain outnumbered by Hindus in all policy decisions.

Though the idea of a separate Islamic state within India was incubating slowly since the days of ideologues like Sir Saiyyad Ahmad Khan, this idea didn't resonate well with Jinnah, who at best looked for extracting concessions for Muslims from the Congress leaders as well as the British for a bigger pie in the governance within a united India. However, the Government of India Act, 1935, providing 'separate electorates' for Muslims and the subsequent elections of the 1937 proved disastrous for the political ambitions of Jinnah. Whereas the Congress was successful in making governments in eight provinces across India, the Jinnah-led All India Muslim League (AIML) couldn't form government anywhere including Punjab and Bengal, which were Muslim majority states. This exposed him to the realisation that the provision of 'separate electorate' was not working to the benefit of Muslims.

Thus, the developments convinced him that electoral democracy would result into the permanent subjugation of Muslims by the Hindus - a hypothesis that has since been thoroughly and comprehensively defeated in India, which has largely remained successful in ensuring rights and dignity for the minorities over its 70 years of post-Independence existence. The conclusion convinced him on the need and necessity of pitching a political demand for Pakistan.

The second factor was his close association with Muhammad Iqbal, the poet, politician and ideologue who is considered as the "spiritual father of Pakistan" in the 1930s till the latter's death. Through his series of speeches and writings, Iqbal established that Islam had a "legal concept" which was anachronistic with the principles of nationalism or democracy as neither of the two can operate without dividing the community (ummah). 
&nbsp; 
During the period of political vacuum in the IUML, mainly due to the self-imposed exile of Jinnah from India in the first half of 1930s, Iqbal theorised and successfully articulated, what was to be known later as the "Two-Nation Theory" - a political principle of religious exclusivism that holds Muslims as a distinct nation unable to co-exist with any other religious group or community, hence deserving political independence from the Hindus.

Having theorised such a blatant communalist principle, Iqbal set himself on the task of convincing Jinnah to come back to India and take up the leadership of the IUML, as he believed that the latter was the only Muslim in India who possessed the ability to lead the community and to make them join the League. With a series of intense and fruitful correspondences with Jinnah, Iqbal was successful in bringing the former back from London in 1936 to lead the IUML. Thus, appears Jinnah 2.0, thoroughly transformed and wholly steeped into the ideologies of Iqbal, whom he declared as his political mentor.

From the 1937 through the World War II, Jinnah still looked hesitant to ask for partition and wanted to have some kind of rapprochement with the Indian National Congress. However, the subsequent political developments dashed all hopes of Jinnah and he got more and more drawn to the visions of Iqbal. Finally, convinced of the need of Pakistan, Jinnah formally brought up "Pakistan Resolution" for creation of a Muslim state of Pakistan in its Lahore session of 1940 and the IUML adopted the same as its political goal henceforth.

The AMU had become the hotspot of Pakistan movement during this period as Jinnah made multiple visits to the institution all through this period. He was was given a lifetime membership of its student union in 1938.

Thus, the vagaries of electoral democracy and the machinations of Muhammad Iqbal were the two factors that completed the transformation of a secular-liberal Jinnah 1.0 to his 2.0 avatar, which saw a communal and obstinate politician spewing venom against Gandhi and Congress leaders while talking of Pakistan in an uncompromising manner. That's why the Indians, including a majority of Muslims who stayed behind rejecting his flawed theory, loathe him and find his portrait on an Indian university campus shocking.

However, from the Muslim perspective, Jinnah was a savior of Muslims from the 'oppressive' democracy that would have put them under the permanent subjugation of Hindus in an undivided India. He fought the British authorities as well as with the Hindu majority tooth and nail to carve out Pakistan. That's why he is still the hero of a section of Indian Muslims who treat him as an Islamic victor conquering over the Hindu majoritarianism. The portrait hanging in the Students Union office of the AMU is the portrait of Jinnah 2.0 which still finds space in the current Indian political environment.

Thus, Jinnah is a moral leader of those Indian Muslims who look for a dominant political space for themselves in the 21st century India. The Jinnah portrait gives them the inspiration and assures them that it's possible. The chant, 'lad ke lenge azadi' (we'll achieve independence by force) reverberating from the walls of the AMU, has its source in that portrait.

Just because the Berlin wall was there since the 1960s didn't mean it couldn't be demolished. Many such mistakes of the history have been rectified in course of time hence the argument that the portrait is there since 1938 is not the raison d'etre for its existence in the university. The portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the AMU's Students Union office is nothing but the moral elixir of the aspirational Muslim youths looking for an Islamic icon in India through the leadership vacuum of modern times.

Thus, don't expect the portrait to be taken down from AMU. No wonder, if you find it creeping up many other university walls in India in days to come.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Jinnah was a free spirit caged within a Muslim body.

Each portrait tells a story. A portrait, behind its contours, contains a persona that inspires, stimulates and motivates the beholders to emulate the ideals and ideologies that the former represents. The portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah hanging on the walls of the Students Union office in the Aligarh Muslim University, similarly, hides many stories behind the dust of time gathered around it that contains different message to different people. Muhammad Ali Jinnah is not just another figure lying in the debris of the history, but one who caused the dismemberment of India in order to create a separate nation on religious line. He gave political expression to a dangerous and dysfunctional "two-nation theory", which was long being propagated in-principle by the likes of Md Iqbal and Sir Syyid Ahmad Khan. Finally, through his unfathomable obstinacy and persistence he became successful in creating the theocratic state of Pakistan but not before programming a madness in which nearly 2 millions were killed and 14 millions were displaced permanently for no fault of their own. Those who lived behind, untouched with the ravages of death or displacement, got a permanent scar on their psyche and a pathological divide in their hearts. While to the Hindus, Jinnah is a villain who divided India, to the Muslims he comes across as the greatest leader, the undisputed Quaid-i-azam who pulled off a valiant coup on the belligerent Hindus led by an 'obstructionist' Gandhi to create Pakistan for the ummah, an act of valiance comparable to none other than the Rashidun caliphs, who expanded the reach of Islam immediately after the Prophet's death. But Jinnah was not like that, and at least till 1936 he wasn't a Muslim bigot. Jinnah was a free spirit caged within a Muslim body. Born an Ismaili Shia, Jinnah was as much a Muslim as Jawaharlal Nehru was a Hindu. With cigar, wine, western clothes and British mannerism he wasn't someone who fits the bill of a jihadi fighter struggling in the way of Allah for establishing an Islamic state for his followers. He never entertained the obscurantism of Islam or its fanatic traditions. So, how suddenly Jinnah becomes fanatic? What makes him fall to the notion of partition of a country, in which he lived all through his life, on religious line? The answer lies in two factors. The first factor that drew him to a separate Muslim state was the fear that the western democracy, as being adopted gradually in India, would be detrimental for the Muslims because of their small population. Constituting less than one third of the total population, Jinnah believed the Muslims would ever remain outnumbered by Hindus in all policy decisions. Though the idea of a separate Islamic state within India was incubating slowly since the days of ideologues like Sir Saiyyad Ahmad Khan, this idea didn't resonate well with Jinnah, who at best looked for extracting concessions for Muslims from the Congress leaders as well as the British for a bigger pie in the governance within a united India. However, the Government of India Act, 1935, providing 'separate electorates' for Muslims and the subsequent elections of the 1937 proved disastrous for the political ambitions of Jinnah. Whereas the Congress was successful in making governments in eight provinces across India, the Jinnah-led All India Muslim League (AIML) couldn't form government anywhere including Punjab and Bengal, which were Muslim majority states. This exposed him to the realisation that the provision of 'separate electorate' was not working to the benefit of Muslims. Thus, the developments convinced him that electoral democracy would result into the permanent subjugation of Muslims by the Hindus - a hypothesis that has since been thoroughly and comprehensively defeated in India, which has largely remained successful in ensuring rights and dignity for the minorities over its 70 years of post-Independence existence. The conclusion convinced him on the need and necessity of pitching a political demand for Pakistan. The second factor was his close association with Muhammad Iqbal, the poet, politician and ideologue who is considered as the "spiritual father of Pakistan" in the 1930s till the latter's death. Through his series of speeches and writings, Iqbal established that Islam had a "legal concept" which was anachronistic with the principles of nationalism or democracy as neither of the two can operate without dividing the community (ummah). During the period of political vacuum in the IUML, mainly due to the self-imposed exile of Jinnah from India in the first half of 1930s, Iqbal theorised and successfully articulated, what was to be known later as the "Two-Nation Theory" - a political principle of religious exclusivism that holds Muslims as a distinct nation unable to co-exist with any other religious group or community, hence deserving political independence from the Hindus. Having theorised such a blatant communalist principle, Iqbal set himself on the task of convincing Jinnah to come back to India and take up the leadership of the IUML, as he believed that the latter was the only Muslim in India who possessed the ability to lead the community and to make them join the League. With a series of intense and fruitful correspondences with Jinnah, Iqbal was successful in bringing the former back from London in 1936 to lead the IUML. Thus, appears Jinnah 2.0, thoroughly transformed and wholly steeped into the ideologies of Iqbal, whom he declared as his political mentor. From the 1937 through the World War II, Jinnah still looked hesitant to ask for partition and wanted to have some kind of rapprochement with the Indian National Congress. However, the subsequent political developments dashed all hopes of Jinnah and he got more and more drawn to the visions of Iqbal. Finally, convinced of the need of Pakistan, Jinnah formally brought up "Pakistan Resolution" for creation of a Muslim state of Pakistan in its Lahore session of 1940 and the IUML adopted the same as its political goal henceforth. The AMU had become the hotspot of Pakistan movement during this period as Jinnah made multiple visits to the institution all through this period. He was was given a lifetime membership of its student union in 1938. Thus, the vagaries of electoral democracy and the machinations of Muhammad Iqbal were the two factors that completed the transformation of a secular-liberal Jinnah 1.0 to his 2.0 avatar, which saw a communal and obstinate politician spewing venom against Gandhi and Congress leaders while talking of Pakistan in an uncompromising manner. That's why the Indians, including a majority of Muslims who stayed behind rejecting his flawed theory, loathe him and find his portrait on an Indian university campus shocking. However, from the Muslim perspective, Jinnah was a savior of Muslims from the 'oppressive' democracy that would have put them under the permanent subjugation of Hindus in an undivided India. He fought the British authorities as well as with the Hindu majority tooth and nail to carve out Pakistan. That's why he is still the hero of a section of Indian Muslims who treat him as an Islamic victor conquering over the Hindu majoritarianism. The portrait hanging in the Students Union office of the AMU is the portrait of Jinnah 2.0 which still finds space in the current Indian political environment. Thus, Jinnah is a moral leader of those Indian Muslims who look for a dominant political space for themselves in the 21st century India. The Jinnah portrait gives them the inspiration and assures them that it's possible. The chant, 'lad ke lenge azadi' (we'll achieve independence by force) reverberating from the walls of the AMU, has its source in that portrait. Just because the Berlin wall was there since the 1960s didn't mean it couldn't be demolished. Many such mistakes of the history have been rectified in course of time hence the argument that the portrait is there since 1938 is not the raison d'etre for its existence in the university. The portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the AMU's Students Union office is nothing but the moral elixir of the aspirational Muslim youths looking for an Islamic icon in India through the leadership vacuum of modern times. Thus, don't expect the portrait to be taken down from AMU. No wonder, if you find it creeping up many other university walls in India in days to come. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why you shouldn't expect the portrait of Jinnah to be taken down from AMU

A Bhiwandi court has asked Congress President Rahul Gandhi to appear before it on June 12 to record his plea in a defamation case filed against him by an RSS functionary.

The court on Wednesday heard arguments on Gandhi's application, seeking a detailed recording of evidence instead of a 'summary trial', and adjourned the matter till June 12.

The court said that on June 12 it would pass an order on the application and would also record the defendant's (Rahul Gandhi) plea, and asked him to remain present on that day.

Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi.

He filed the case against the Congress president over the latter's alleged statement at an election rally near Bhiwandi on March 6, 2014 that "the RSS people had killed (Mahatma) Gandhi."

Kunte claimed in his case that this statement slandered the reputation of the RSS.

While the trial in such cases are normally held summarily, Rahul Gandhi filed an application last month seeking for it to be conducted as a 'summons trial'.

"A summary trial is short and will be completed with just submitting the written arguments. We have sought for a summons trial which would go into the in-depth recording of the evidence," Rahul Gandhi's lawyer Narayan Iyer said.

"The case relates to historical facts and hence, we need to rely on several documents and would like to record the evidence of experts," he said.

Rahul Gandhi had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of the case.

The apex court had in July 2016 said he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation, and would have to face trial if he did not express regret for his remark.

The Congress leader had declined to accept the suggestion and expressed willingness to face the trial.

Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi

A Bhiwandi court has asked Congress President Rahul Gandhi to appear before it on June 12 to record his plea in a defamation case filed against him by an RSS functionary. The court on Wednesday heard arguments on Gandhi's application, seeking a detailed recording of evidence instead of a 'summary trial', and adjourned the matter till June 12. The court said that on June 12 it would pass an order on the application and would also record the defendant's (Rahul Gandhi) plea, and asked him to remain present on that day. Rajesh Kunte, a local worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, had in 2014 filed the case against Rahul Gandhi after watching his speech in Thane's Bhiwandi township where the Congress leader alleged that the RSS was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi. He filed the case against the Congress president over the latter's alleged statement at an election rally near Bhiwandi on March 6, 2014 that "the RSS people had killed (Mahatma) Gandhi." Kunte claimed in his case that this statement slandered the reputation of the RSS. While the trial in such cases are normally held summarily, Rahul Gandhi filed an application last month seeking for it to be conducted as a 'summons trial'. "A summary trial is short and will be completed with just submitting the written arguments. We have sought for a summons trial which would go into the in-depth recording of the evidence," Rahul Gandhi's lawyer Narayan Iyer said. "The case relates to historical facts and hence, we need to rely on several documents and would like to record the evidence of experts," he said. Rahul Gandhi had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of the case. The apex court had in July 2016 said he should not have resorted to "collective denunciation" of an organisation, and would have to face trial if he did not express regret for his remark. The Congress leader had declined to accept the suggestion and expressed willingness to face the trial.

RSS defamation case: Court asks Rahul Gandhi to appear on June 12

In a spate of vandalism of statues of iconic leaders and ideologues in different parts of the country which started on Wednesday, B R Ambedkar's statue was found decapitated by miscreants on Thursday morning.

Earlier, the bust of Mahatma Gandhi's statue was found decapitated in Nathdwara, Rajasthan on Thursday.

Three people were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the vandalisation of Gandhi's statue on the basis of CCTV footage.

Those&nbsp;arrested were&nbsp;identified as Kuldeep, Arvind and Ankit. The accused confessed that they vandalised the statue on late Monday night, reports said. However, the intention behind their act is not yet clear and the police is investigating the matter.

Recently, the Rajasthan police had arrested a person for vandalising the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Jaisalmer.&nbsp;

Last month, a statue of the country's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was defaced with ink in West Bengal.

In a similar incident, Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee's idol was vandalised in Kokrajhar's Assam.

The incidents of vandalism began after a statue of communist icon Vladimir Lenin was razed after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the Left front government out of power in the assembly elections in Tripura.

Soon after, the statue of social reformer and rationalist leader E V Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, was vandalised in Vellore.

The incidents of vandalism began after a statue of Vladimir Lenin was razed after the BJP swept the Left front government out of power in the assembly elections in Tripura

In a spate of vandalism of statues of iconic leaders and ideologues in different parts of the country which started on Wednesday, B R Ambedkar's statue was found decapitated by miscreants on Thursday morning. Earlier, the bust of Mahatma Gandhi's statue was found decapitated in Nathdwara, Rajasthan on Thursday. Three people were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the vandalisation of Gandhi's statue on the basis of CCTV footage. Those arrested were identified as Kuldeep, Arvind and Ankit. The accused confessed that they vandalised the statue on late Monday night, reports said. However, the intention behind their act is not yet clear and the police is investigating the matter. Recently, the Rajasthan police had arrested a person for vandalising the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Jaisalmer. Last month, a statue of the country's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was defaced with ink in West Bengal. In a similar incident, Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee's idol was vandalised in Kokrajhar's Assam. The incidents of vandalism began after a statue of communist icon Vladimir Lenin was razed after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the Left front government out of power in the assembly elections in Tripura. Soon after, the statue of social reformer and rationalist leader E V Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, was vandalised in Vellore.

Ambedkars statue vandalised in Uttar Pradesh

A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was found defaced in Kannur district&#39;s Taliparamba town today, police said.

The spectacle carving was damaged and a garland on the statue was lying nearby, an official said, giving details of the vandalisation, the latest in a series of similar incidents being reported from various parts of the country.

The Gandhi statue was close to the Taliparamba Taluk office, the official said, adding that a probe was on to identify those behind the incident. A CCTV visual showed the suspected man behind the incident walking away from the site.

Some locals on the spot were reported as saying that they saw a man hurling a stone at the statue before fleeing the spot.

A complaint was received from Deputy Tahsildar C V Prakasan, based on which investigations are on, the official said.

Yesterday, a bust of Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee was vandalised in Kolkata. The day before, a statue of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar was damaged in Meerut. The incidents came close on the heels of Communist leader Lenin&#39;s statues being damaged in Tripura and Dravidian movement founder E V Ramasamy Periyar&#39;s bust being desecrated in Vellore, Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Ambedkar statue vandalised:&nbsp;

Adding to the list of statues of leaders being vandalised in various parts of the country, a bust of Dalit leader B R Ambedkar in a residential locality in Chennai was found defaced on Thursday, triggering a protest by locals, police said.

The bust, placed inside a structure covered with a grill in a residential neighbourhood in Tiruvotriyur, was splattered with paint.

As news of the defacement spread, people in the north Chennai area staged a protest. A police team led by Deputy Police Commissioner (DCP) G Shashank Sai visited the spot and assured action against the culprits.

&quot;Based on a complaint from the local people, we have registered an FIR and two special teams have been formed to trace the culprits,&quot; the DCP said.

More police pickets have been posted in the area for maintenance of law and order, he said.

A series of incidents of desecration of statues of various leaders, including Ambedkar, rationalist E V Ramasamy &quot;Periyar&quot; and Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, have been reported from different parts of the country.

The incidents began after statues of Communist icon Vladimir Lenin were pulled down in Tripura following the BJP&#39;s victory in the Assembly elections, ending 25 years of Communist rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the vandalism and said stern action would be taken against those found guilty.

Locals said they saw a man throw a stone at the Gandhi bust before fleeing the spot

A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was found defaced in Kannur district's Taliparamba town today, police said. The spectacle carving was damaged and a garland on the statue was lying nearby, an official said, giving details of the vandalisation, the latest in a series of similar incidents being reported from various parts of the country. The Gandhi statue was close to the Taliparamba Taluk office, the official said, adding that a probe was on to identify those behind the incident. A CCTV visual showed the suspected man behind the incident walking away from the site. Some locals on the spot were reported as saying that they saw a man hurling a stone at the statue before fleeing the spot. A complaint was received from Deputy Tahsildar C V Prakasan, based on which investigations are on, the official said. Yesterday, a bust of Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee was vandalised in Kolkata. The day before, a statue of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar was damaged in Meerut. The incidents came close on the heels of Communist leader Lenin's statues being damaged in Tripura and Dravidian movement founder E V Ramasamy Periyar's bust being desecrated in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Ambedkar statue vandalised: Adding to the list of statues of leaders being vandalised in various parts of the country, a bust of Dalit leader B R Ambedkar in a residential locality in Chennai was found defaced on Thursday, triggering a protest by locals, police said. The bust, placed inside a structure covered with a grill in a residential neighbourhood in Tiruvotriyur, was splattered with paint. As news of the defacement spread, people in the north Chennai area staged a protest. A police team led by Deputy Police Commissioner (DCP) G Shashank Sai visited the spot and assured action against the culprits. "Based on a complaint from the local people, we have registered an FIR and two special teams have been formed to trace the culprits," the DCP said. More police pickets have been posted in the area for maintenance of law and order, he said. A series of incidents of desecration of statues of various leaders, including Ambedkar, rationalist E V Ramasamy "Periyar" and Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, have been reported from different parts of the country. The incidents began after statues of Communist icon Vladimir Lenin were pulled down in Tripura following the BJP's victory in the Assembly elections, ending 25 years of Communist rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the vandalism and said stern action would be taken against those found guilty.

Statue wars continue: Gandhi bust defaced in Kerala, Ambedkar in Chennai

Statues are symbols of politics in many parts of the world. They are associated with cult politics, subversive politics, authoritarian regime, religion and change both from above and below. Statues stand as symbols of power, as an embodiment of certain philosophy.&nbsp;

With the imposition of colonial rule in the subcontinent, the metropolises, such as Chennai and Mumbai and, particularly, Kolkata, witnessed a plethora of statutes being set up at crucial public places. Maidan, the largest green space of Kolkata which separated the British part of the city from the native quarters, boasted statutes of British governor generals and other eminent personalities of the British Raj, including Lord Curzon, Kitchener, Roberts, Minto, Northbrook and Canning.

While men are mortal, statues are there to stay. For the colonialists, this was the best way to ingrain in the public memory of its subjects the face of its rulers. These statues inspired awe and reverence for the British rule beyond the clutch of draconian laws of the colonial masters.&nbsp;

When eventually the colony struck back at the heart of the empire, a role reversal happened. Not only were some of these vestiges of colonial rule removed but many new statues came up after independence, commemorating the &#39;makers of modern India&#39;. Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Nehru and statues of women freedom fighters, such as Matangini Hazra was there for us to see and celebrate.&nbsp;

The independent nation-state used these nationalist icons to assert an ideological continuity in the imagination of its citizens.&nbsp;

Thus, while the putting up and taking down of statutes were very much part of the political landscape of modern India, what was absent was the violence and the compulsion of electoral politics. That is something that emerged in more recent times as communities and political groups jostled to remake and redefine, through statutory politics, the political narrative of the country.&nbsp;

We, and the statues that we have built, have come a long way from representing the Indian &#39;us&#39; from British &#39;them&#39;. It has fragmented and splintered into multiple variants of regional political assertion. Consequently, new statues are not simply being built to take the place of the old but political aggression is finding expression in the form of defacement of statues of people who do not fall within our preferred political ambit.&nbsp;

In India, it is not the first time statues have been defaced. Statues of Ambedkar routinely got defaced in Uttar Pradesh. Upper caste saw these as the ugly assertion of Dalit politics. Some saw them as a land grab exercise but statues did not go away. Mayawati went even a step further. She got her statues erected under her supervision only.

More recently, similar incidents of defacing and disfiguring of statues have happened in Tripura, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. In all these cases, there have been forms of physical acts of removal, violence and indecency. The similarity, however, ends here. The violence associated with Lenin, Shyama Prasad Mukherji and Periyar is related to coming of the RSS-BJP combine as the sole national party and their civilizational worldview. It is the same distinction which RSS draws between Gandhi family and the Congress Party. Indian philosophy and western influences. Though the organisation of RSS itself has been modern, the state of Tripura has put on the table the ideological frontier of the RSS-BJP.

&nbsp;It is not about Lenin only. It is about communism&rsquo;s take on religion, internationalism which put the Left in a dock when China invaded India and about a value system which with pro-labour ideas also threatened the cultural vision of India which RSS has. It is for this reason that BJP&rsquo;s engagement with protests in JNU acquired an ideological angle which was pinned to nationalism, commitment to India&rsquo;s border and sense of being &lsquo;true&rsquo; Indian.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Periyar, on the other hand, is the father of Dravidian politics in India. His rationalist thoughts challenged the idea of religion and its hierarchies. It made Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s politics very different from the rest of India. Despite, places of high Hinduism&nbsp;associated with Tamil Nadu, it was Periyar&rsquo;s politics which reshaped the cultural map. He did not believe in God but his supporters made him a God like icon of him.

Though BJP is trying to give Tripura incident a spin of upsurge, we should not forget that Left was not a dictatorship and won elections. Tripura was neither Iraq nor USSR where democracy had a chequered history.

Statues in India, as well as outside, are, primarily, an expression of power and preservation of memories. Most political parties have their leaders enshrined in the form of statues in the Parliament. Every nook and corner of Parliament is littered with them. The present controversy is an expression of the contested idea of India which includes the debate on inclusiveness, nationalism, modernity, tolerance and individual expression.&nbsp;

The violence that has come to surround politics of statues in India can create problems for BJP. Tamil Nadu is one area where BJP wants to have a regional partner. What may benefit them in the North East may hurt them in some other parts of India. The only problem is for Congress which will have to pick sides. The Congress is in no position to argue against the politics of statuary because it has done the same when in power. It ensured that country was littered with statues of Indira and Rajiv. Congress does not belong to the Left but cannot be seen not taking a position against violence.&nbsp;

The statues of politicians or ideologues are here to say. These statues are just like idols; one may not understand the ambiguous philosophical aspect of religion but will bow down in respect to a &#39;murti&#39; of god and goddess. Similarly, in lieu of proper political education, political parties will continue using larger and grandiose statues of their leaders to impress the electorates. Statues, any day, will work more effectively, than political leaflet, particularly in a country like India where the literacy rate is low. But while we accept statutory politics, it is imperative that in a democratic polity, instead of vandalising opposing political insignia, it will serve the interests of the citizens better if we can accommodate statues representing different positions of a political spectrum.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

New statues are not simply being built to take the place of the old but political aggression is finding expression in the form of defacement of statues of people who do not fall within our preferred political ambit.

Statues are symbols of politics in many parts of the world. They are associated with cult politics, subversive politics, authoritarian regime, religion and change both from above and below. Statues stand as symbols of power, as an embodiment of certain philosophy. With the imposition of colonial rule in the subcontinent, the metropolises, such as Chennai and Mumbai and, particularly, Kolkata, witnessed a plethora of statutes being set up at crucial public places. Maidan, the largest green space of Kolkata which separated the British part of the city from the native quarters, boasted statutes of British governor generals and other eminent personalities of the British Raj, including Lord Curzon, Kitchener, Roberts, Minto, Northbrook and Canning. While men are mortal, statues are there to stay. For the colonialists, this was the best way to ingrain in the public memory of its subjects the face of its rulers. These statues inspired awe and reverence for the British rule beyond the clutch of draconian laws of the colonial masters. When eventually the colony struck back at the heart of the empire, a role reversal happened. Not only were some of these vestiges of colonial rule removed but many new statues came up after independence, commemorating the 'makers of modern India'. Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Nehru and statues of women freedom fighters, such as Matangini Hazra was there for us to see and celebrate. The independent nation-state used these nationalist icons to assert an ideological continuity in the imagination of its citizens. Thus, while the putting up and taking down of statutes were very much part of the political landscape of modern India, what was absent was the violence and the compulsion of electoral politics. That is something that emerged in more recent times as communities and political groups jostled to remake and redefine, through statutory politics, the political narrative of the country. We, and the statues that we have built, have come a long way from representing the Indian 'us' from British 'them'. It has fragmented and splintered into multiple variants of regional political assertion. Consequently, new statues are not simply being built to take the place of the old but political aggression is finding expression in the form of defacement of statues of people who do not fall within our preferred political ambit. In India, it is not the first time statues have been defaced. Statues of Ambedkar routinely got defaced in Uttar Pradesh. Upper caste saw these as the ugly assertion of Dalit politics. Some saw them as a land grab exercise but statues did not go away. Mayawati went even a step further. She got her statues erected under her supervision only. More recently, similar incidents of defacing and disfiguring of statues have happened in Tripura, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. In all these cases, there have been forms of physical acts of removal, violence and indecency. The similarity, however, ends here. The violence associated with Lenin, Shyama Prasad Mukherji and Periyar is related to coming of the RSS-BJP combine as the sole national party and their civilizational worldview. It is the same distinction which RSS draws between Gandhi family and the Congress Party. Indian philosophy and western influences. Though the organisation of RSS itself has been modern, the state of Tripura has put on the table the ideological frontier of the RSS-BJP. It is not about Lenin only. It is about communism’s take on religion, internationalism which put the Left in a dock when China invaded India and about a value system which with pro-labour ideas also threatened the cultural vision of India which RSS has. It is for this reason that BJP’s engagement with protests in JNU acquired an ideological angle which was pinned to nationalism, commitment to India’s border and sense of being ‘true’ Indian. Periyar, on the other hand, is the father of Dravidian politics in India. His rationalist thoughts challenged the idea of religion and its hierarchies. It made Tamil Nadu’s politics very different from the rest of India. Despite, places of high Hinduism associated with Tamil Nadu, it was Periyar’s politics which reshaped the cultural map. He did not believe in God but his supporters made him a God like icon of him. Though BJP is trying to give Tripura incident a spin of upsurge, we should not forget that Left was not a dictatorship and won elections. Tripura was neither Iraq nor USSR where democracy had a chequered history. Statues in India, as well as outside, are, primarily, an expression of power and preservation of memories. Most political parties have their leaders enshrined in the form of statues in the Parliament. Every nook and corner of Parliament is littered with them. The present controversy is an expression of the contested idea of India which includes the debate on inclusiveness, nationalism, modernity, tolerance and individual expression. The violence that has come to surround politics of statues in India can create problems for BJP. Tamil Nadu is one area where BJP wants to have a regional partner. What may benefit them in the North East may hurt them in some other parts of India. The only problem is for Congress which will have to pick sides. The Congress is in no position to argue against the politics of statuary because it has done the same when in power. It ensured that country was littered with statues of Indira and Rajiv. Congress does not belong to the Left but cannot be seen not taking a position against violence. The statues of politicians or ideologues are here to say. These statues are just like idols; one may not understand the ambiguous philosophical aspect of religion but will bow down in respect to a 'murti' of god and goddess. Similarly, in lieu of proper political education, political parties will continue using larger and grandiose statues of their leaders to impress the electorates. Statues, any day, will work more effectively, than political leaflet, particularly in a country like India where the literacy rate is low. But while we accept statutory politics, it is imperative that in a democratic polity, instead of vandalising opposing political insignia, it will serve the interests of the citizens better if we can accommodate statues representing different positions of a political spectrum. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why Indians are waging war over statues of Lenin, Periyar, Syama Prasad

A letter written by Mahatma Gandhi, in which he discusses the nature of existence of Jesus Christ, is up for sale and could be purchased for US $50,000.

The letter dated April 6, 1926, is written by Gandhi from his Sabarmati Ashram in India.

Typed in faint ink and with a bold, unaffected signature, the letter was part of a private collection for the past several decades and is now being sold by the Pennsylvania-based Raab Collection.

&quot;Jesus was one of the great teachers of mankind,&quot; Gandhi wrote in the letter to Christian religious elder in the United States, Milton Newberry Frantz.

Nathan Raab, principal at the Raab Collection, described the letter as the embodiment of Gandhi&#39;s vision for a world of religions at peace. &quot;His belief in Jesus as a teacher of mankind shows his efforts to find commonality with his fellow man,&quot; he said.

&quot;This is one of the finest letters on religion that Gandhi ever wrote,&quot; the Raab Collection said in a press statement.

&quot;Our research discloses no other letter of Gandhi mentioning Jesus to have ever reached the public market,&quot; the historical-document dealer said.

The Raab Collection said it located no record of any letter of Gandhi on Jesus to have reached the public market. Gandhi also discusses his hope for peace among religions worldwide, it added.

&quot;Dear Friend, I have your letter. I am afraid it is not possible for me to subscribe to the creed you have sent me. The subscriber is made to believe that the highest manifestation of the unseen reality was Jesus Christ. In spite of all my efforts, I have not been able to feel the truth of that statement,&quot; Gandhi wrote in the letter.

&quot;I have not been able to move beyond the belief that Jesus was one of the great teachers of mankind. Do you not think that religious unity is to be had not by a mechanical subscription to a common creed but by all respecting the creed of each?&quot; he asked.

&quot;In my opinion, difference in creed there must be so long as there are different brains. But who does it matter if all these are hung upon the common thread of love and mutual esteem?&quot; Gandhi wrote in the letter, which is now up for grabs beginning US $50,000.

Typed in faint ink and with a bold, unaffected signature, the letter was part of a private collection for the past several decades and is now being sold by the Pennsylvania-based Raab Collection.

A letter written by Mahatma Gandhi, in which he discusses the nature of existence of Jesus Christ, is up for sale and could be purchased for US $50,000. The letter dated April 6, 1926, is written by Gandhi from his Sabarmati Ashram in India. Typed in faint ink and with a bold, unaffected signature, the letter was part of a private collection for the past several decades and is now being sold by the Pennsylvania-based Raab Collection. "Jesus was one of the great teachers of mankind," Gandhi wrote in the letter to Christian religious elder in the United States, Milton Newberry Frantz. Nathan Raab, principal at the Raab Collection, described the letter as the embodiment of Gandhi's vision for a world of religions at peace. "His belief in Jesus as a teacher of mankind shows his efforts to find commonality with his fellow man," he said. "This is one of the finest letters on religion that Gandhi ever wrote," the Raab Collection said in a press statement. "Our research discloses no other letter of Gandhi mentioning Jesus to have ever reached the public market," the historical-document dealer said. The Raab Collection said it located no record of any letter of Gandhi on Jesus to have reached the public market. Gandhi also discusses his hope for peace among religions worldwide, it added. "Dear Friend, I have your letter. I am afraid it is not possible for me to subscribe to the creed you have sent me. The subscriber is made to believe that the highest manifestation of the unseen reality was Jesus Christ. In spite of all my efforts, I have not been able to feel the truth of that statement," Gandhi wrote in the letter. "I have not been able to move beyond the belief that Jesus was one of the great teachers of mankind. Do you not think that religious unity is to be had not by a mechanical subscription to a common creed but by all respecting the creed of each?" he asked. "In my opinion, difference in creed there must be so long as there are different brains. But who does it matter if all these are hung upon the common thread of love and mutual esteem?" Gandhi wrote in the letter, which is now up for grabs beginning US $50,000.

Mahatma Gandhi's original letter on Jesus Christ up for sale

In this era of global warming and climate change, everyone is striving towards a clean and safe India. The recent initiative led by the Indian government added to its up-scaling. My recent visit to Medh village for a SHG (self help group) meeting gave me an opportunity to analyse the impact of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or Clean India Mission.&nbsp;

&ldquo;A clean India would be the best tribute India could pay to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150 birth anniversary in 2019,&rdquo; said Shri Narendra Modi as he launched the Swachh Bharat Mission at Rajpath in New Delhi. On 2nd October 2014, Swachh Bharat Mission was launched throughout length and breadth of the country as a national movement.

Its aim is to provide sanitation facilities to every family, including toilets, solid and liquid waste disposal systems, village cleanliness, and safe and adequate drinking water supply by 2nd October, 2019. The campaign of Clean India movement is the biggest step taken ever as a cleanliness drive till date. On the day of the launch of the campaign, around 3 million government employees, including students from schools and colleges, had participated in the event to popularize it globally and make the common public aware of it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had nominated the name of nine famous personalities from business industries, sports and Bollywood to drive the clean India campaign. He also had requested from all nine personalities to invite another nine persons individually and requested to continue the chain of nine people to take this campaign to every Indian living in any corner all around the country. While leading the mass movement for cleanliness, the Prime Minister exhorted people to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi&rsquo;s dream of a clean and hygienic India.

Lok Sahbhagi Sansthan (LSS), the organisation I am placed in, is working closely with the community with their signature project named &lsquo;SAMMAN&rsquo; which is aimed at transforming the lives of women SHG members by helping them build their own toilets. SAMMAN is the Hindi word for honour/dignity and therefore it is a suitable name for this project.&nbsp;

It was being carried out by LSS with the involvement of, none other than one of previous AIF Clinton Fellow &ndash; Adil. He helped construction of many toilets along with support from this organisation&rsquo;s staff and his mentor.

Our project seeks to transform and improve the quality of the life of the poor in rural Jaipur, Rajasthan, and largely, India, by motivating them to build personal toilets and helping them get loans from banks and the encouragement amount from the government under Swachh Bharat Campaign for construction costs. &nbsp;I carried a small case study of this SHG group named Ganga.

It consists of around 15-20 members. &nbsp;I was able to speak to all the members of this SHG individually and ask them to share their opinion towards sanitation and cleanliness. I was also able to document and record their achievement. For a big surprise, almost all the members in this SHG have constructed their own toilets and are now in a more comfortable situation. It was because they encouraged each other to build those toilets in or near their home. They have also received encouragement amount from the government to their respective bank accounts. Before having toilets they would have to walk miles away into the fields to get relieved, where they would feel insecure and also helpless. During winter seasons, due to the cold climate, it was again a big hurdle for them every day. But after getting the awareness for construction of toilets, they built their own toilets and are now free and happy. This was all possible because of the sincere efforts of LSS staff and the previous AIF Fellow.&nbsp;

Although the problems such as water availability etc. still persist, the women now feel more secure and way better than before having their own toilets at home.

Also, Jaipur district is now in the process of being declared as Open Defecation Free (ODF). It is having 100% ODF villages as of today.

Way ahead to go is to ensure that piped water supply to each and every single household is made available around these villages so that this initiative becomes completely successful and sustainable. Also, this is a major challenge for the government, as it requires a lot of budget and infrastructure to create this facility for all houses in the villages, due to their remoteness and various other issues.

A solution towards this issue can be the design of cost-effective toilets with low water usage and also if possible bio-toilets. Mainly, the poorest of the poor are unable to afford proper construction and maintenance of the toilets in the current design structure. It is also being said that the figures are manipulated since; many toilets are unconstructed or partially constructed with no real time usage at all. So, the challenge now is to ensure proper scrutinize and data collection. There have been efforts to make use of GPS to report the covered areas under this scheme but it needs to be dealt more accurately.

India consists of people of various faiths; Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains etc, and they follow their faiths very devotedly. But it is a sad reality of our country that all the cleanliness and piousness is only confined to religious activities or kitchen.

Also, many insights can be taken from the book &ldquo;Where India Goes&rdquo; authored by former AIF Clinton Fellow Diane Coffey, which talks about the connection between caste, toilet and development in India and how to address these related issues. It calls for the annihilation of caste and attendant prejudices, and a fundamental shift in policy perspectives to effect a crucial, much overdue change.

I learned that change is possible only if you seek it. Especially rural India needs more of awareness and encouragement from people dedicated to promote sustainable development. People in rural areas are easy to understand, more humble and responsive than urban population. If you are successful in convincing them about which is the right way to do things and how it would benefit all the community, then they will themselves come forward to join any initiative and work towards its success.

To sum up, I realised that &ndash; Real INDIA lies in this 6 lakh plus villages of our country.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Although the problems such as water availability etc. still persist, the women, having their own toilets at home, now feel more secure and way better than before.

In this era of global warming and climate change, everyone is striving towards a clean and safe India. The recent initiative led by the Indian government added to its up-scaling. My recent visit to Medh village for a SHG (self help group) meeting gave me an opportunity to analyse the impact of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or Clean India Mission. “A clean India would be the best tribute India could pay to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150 birth anniversary in 2019,” said Shri Narendra Modi as he launched the Swachh Bharat Mission at Rajpath in New Delhi. On 2nd October 2014, Swachh Bharat Mission was launched throughout length and breadth of the country as a national movement. Its aim is to provide sanitation facilities to every family, including toilets, solid and liquid waste disposal systems, village cleanliness, and safe and adequate drinking water supply by 2nd October, 2019. The campaign of Clean India movement is the biggest step taken ever as a cleanliness drive till date. On the day of the launch of the campaign, around 3 million government employees, including students from schools and colleges, had participated in the event to popularize it globally and make the common public aware of it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had nominated the name of nine famous personalities from business industries, sports and Bollywood to drive the clean India campaign. He also had requested from all nine personalities to invite another nine persons individually and requested to continue the chain of nine people to take this campaign to every Indian living in any corner all around the country. While leading the mass movement for cleanliness, the Prime Minister exhorted people to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of a clean and hygienic India. Lok Sahbhagi Sansthan (LSS), the organisation I am placed in, is working closely with the community with their signature project named ‘SAMMAN’ which is aimed at transforming the lives of women SHG members by helping them build their own toilets. SAMMAN is the Hindi word for honour/dignity and therefore it is a suitable name for this project. It was being carried out by LSS with the involvement of, none other than one of previous AIF Clinton Fellow – Adil. He helped construction of many toilets along with support from this organisation’s staff and his mentor. Our project seeks to transform and improve the quality of the life of the poor in rural Jaipur, Rajasthan, and largely, India, by motivating them to build personal toilets and helping them get loans from banks and the encouragement amount from the government under Swachh Bharat Campaign for construction costs. I carried a small case study of this SHG group named Ganga. It consists of around 15-20 members. I was able to speak to all the members of this SHG individually and ask them to share their opinion towards sanitation and cleanliness. I was also able to document and record their achievement. For a big surprise, almost all the members in this SHG have constructed their own toilets and are now in a more comfortable situation. It was because they encouraged each other to build those toilets in or near their home. They have also received encouragement amount from the government to their respective bank accounts. Before having toilets they would have to walk miles away into the fields to get relieved, where they would feel insecure and also helpless. During winter seasons, due to the cold climate, it was again a big hurdle for them every day. But after getting the awareness for construction of toilets, they built their own toilets and are now free and happy. This was all possible because of the sincere efforts of LSS staff and the previous AIF Fellow. Although the problems such as water availability etc. still persist, the women now feel more secure and way better than before having their own toilets at home. Also, Jaipur district is now in the process of being declared as Open Defecation Free (ODF). It is having 100% ODF villages as of today. Way ahead to go is to ensure that piped water supply to each and every single household is made available around these villages so that this initiative becomes completely successful and sustainable. Also, this is a major challenge for the government, as it requires a lot of budget and infrastructure to create this facility for all houses in the villages, due to their remoteness and various other issues. A solution towards this issue can be the design of cost-effective toilets with low water usage and also if possible bio-toilets. Mainly, the poorest of the poor are unable to afford proper construction and maintenance of the toilets in the current design structure. It is also being said that the figures are manipulated since; many toilets are unconstructed or partially constructed with no real time usage at all. So, the challenge now is to ensure proper scrutinize and data collection. There have been efforts to make use of GPS to report the covered areas under this scheme but it needs to be dealt more accurately. India consists of people of various faiths; Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains etc, and they follow their faiths very devotedly. But it is a sad reality of our country that all the cleanliness and piousness is only confined to religious activities or kitchen. Also, many insights can be taken from the book “Where India Goes” authored by former AIF Clinton Fellow Diane Coffey, which talks about the connection between caste, toilet and development in India and how to address these related issues. It calls for the annihilation of caste and attendant prejudices, and a fundamental shift in policy perspectives to effect a crucial, much overdue change. I learned that change is possible only if you seek it. Especially rural India needs more of awareness and encouragement from people dedicated to promote sustainable development. People in rural areas are easy to understand, more humble and responsive than urban population. If you are successful in convincing them about which is the right way to do things and how it would benefit all the community, then they will themselves come forward to join any initiative and work towards its success. To sum up, I realised that – Real INDIA lies in this 6 lakh plus villages of our country. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Women are building their own toilets in Rajasthan

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India&nbsp;honours Subhas Chandra Bose on Tuesday on his 121st birth anniversary, one of the phalanx of India&#39;s pre-independence leaders who continue to inspire the country&#39;s young.

Subhas Chandra Bose was among the key figures who laid the foundations of modern-day India.

He established the Indian National Army to take on the British. Controversially though -- following the principle of &#39;my enemy&#39;s enemy is my friend&#39; -- he also entered into an alliance with Nazi Germany, hoping it would help overthrow British rule in India.

Here are some lesser-known facts about the patriot of patriots:

Mahatma Gandhi always opposed Bose&#39;s ideology, as he was a believer of non-violence, Bose was opposite of that he believed that Gandhi&#39;s ideology&nbsp;would never be sufficient to secure India&#39;s independence, however, Bose was still admired by Gandhi and was to called&nbsp;&quot;patriot of patriots by Gandhi.&#39;

Subhas Chandra Bose was expelled from Calcutta&#39;s Presidency College for assaulting Professor Oaten for his anti-India comments.

He was influenced by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna after reading their works at the age of 16. He felt that his religion was more important than his studies.

Subhas Chandra Bose was elected president of the Indian National Congress twice but he resigned after conflicting ideas of independent India as Bose wanted complete independence while Gandhi and other INC members were trying for dominion status.

Bose was married to an Austrian woman Emille Shinken and his daughter Anita Bose was a popular economist in Germany.

Bose was the editor in Chief of &#39;The Forward&#39;&nbsp;formerly known as &#39;The Jewish Daily Forward&#39;,&nbsp;American magazine published monthly for a Jewish-American audience in New York, but later he left to open his own newspaper called &quot;Swaraj in India.&quot;

Bose, a bright and hard-working student, appeared in the ICS exam and came 4th on the merit list. But he was not happy about the result as he did not wanted to work for the government he grown to hate.

Bose was trying every effort to get freedom for the nation. He sought help from enemy&#39;s enemy, Japan, With Japan&#39;s help Bose formed an Indian National Congress and along with Japanese army, both brought independence to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

To this day there is no certain explanation of how Bose died, the general belief is that he died in a plane crash Formosa now Taiwan. There are still conspiracy theories surrounding his death such as he lived in Russia and later came back to India and lived anonymously in UP.

Bose was called 'patriot of patriots' by Gandhi

× India honours Subhas Chandra Bose on Tuesday on his 121st birth anniversary, one of the phalanx of India's pre-independence leaders who continue to inspire the country's young. Subhas Chandra Bose was among the key figures who laid the foundations of modern-day India. He established the Indian National Army to take on the British. Controversially though -- following the principle of 'my enemy's enemy is my friend' -- he also entered into an alliance with Nazi Germany, hoping it would help overthrow British rule in India. Here are some lesser-known facts about the patriot of patriots: Mahatma Gandhi always opposed Bose's ideology, as he was a believer of non-violence, Bose was opposite of that he believed that Gandhi's ideology would never be sufficient to secure India's independence, however, Bose was still admired by Gandhi and was to called "patriot of patriots by Gandhi.' Subhas Chandra Bose was expelled from Calcutta's Presidency College for assaulting Professor Oaten for his anti-India comments. He was influenced by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna after reading their works at the age of 16. He felt that his religion was more important than his studies. Subhas Chandra Bose was elected president of the Indian National Congress twice but he resigned after conflicting ideas of independent India as Bose wanted complete independence while Gandhi and other INC members were trying for dominion status. Bose was married to an Austrian woman Emille Shinken and his daughter Anita Bose was a popular economist in Germany. Bose was the editor in Chief of 'The Forward' formerly known as 'The Jewish Daily Forward', American magazine published monthly for a Jewish-American audience in New York, but later he left to open his own newspaper called "Swaraj in India." Bose, a bright and hard-working student, appeared in the ICS exam and came 4th on the merit list. But he was not happy about the result as he did not wanted to work for the government he grown to hate. Bose was trying every effort to get freedom for the nation. He sought help from enemy's enemy, Japan, With Japan's help Bose formed an Indian National Congress and along with Japanese army, both brought independence to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. To this day there is no certain explanation of how Bose died, the general belief is that he died in a plane crash Formosa now Taiwan. There are still conspiracy theories surrounding his death such as he lived in Russia and later came back to India and lived anonymously in UP.

Remembering 'patriot of patriots' Subhas Chandra Bose on his 121st birth anniversary

An unidentified person tonight hurled a shoe at AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi while he was addressing a rally at Nagpada in south Mumbai, police said. The Member of Parliament was not hurt in the incident, they said.

Owaisi was voicing his opposition on the triple talaq issue at the rally around 9.45 pm when the incident took place, a senior police officer said.

&quot;I am willing to lay down my life for my democratic rights. These are all frustrated people, who cannot see that the government decision on triple talaq has not been accepted by the masses in general and Muslims in particular,&quot; Owaisi told PTI.

&quot;These people (referring to the person who threw the shoe at him) are the ones who follow the ideology of the killers of Mahatma Gandhi, Govind Pansare and Narendra Dabholkar,&quot; he said.

Owaisi claimed that such incidents were happening at the behest of people, who follow &quot;hate ideologies&quot; and that they are getting emboldened with each passing day.

&quot;This will not stop us from speaking the truth against them,&quot; the Hyderabad MP said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone-III, Virendra Mishra said the police were going through the CCTV footage and probing the matter.

AIMIM MLA Imtiyaz Jaleel said Owaisi was unhurt and continued his speech after the incident.

&quot;We do not care for such incidents. Some people and parties do not want us to speak the truth. Owaisi continued with his speech (despite the incident). We simply ignore these type of acts,&quot; he added.

Owaisi was voicing his opposition on the triple talaq issue when the incident took place

An unidentified person tonight hurled a shoe at AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi while he was addressing a rally at Nagpada in south Mumbai, police said. The Member of Parliament was not hurt in the incident, they said. Owaisi was voicing his opposition on the triple talaq issue at the rally around 9.45 pm when the incident took place, a senior police officer said. "I am willing to lay down my life for my democratic rights. These are all frustrated people, who cannot see that the government decision on triple talaq has not been accepted by the masses in general and Muslims in particular," Owaisi told PTI. "These people (referring to the person who threw the shoe at him) are the ones who follow the ideology of the killers of Mahatma Gandhi, Govind Pansare and Narendra Dabholkar," he said. Owaisi claimed that such incidents were happening at the behest of people, who follow "hate ideologies" and that they are getting emboldened with each passing day. "This will not stop us from speaking the truth against them," the Hyderabad MP said. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone-III, Virendra Mishra said the police were going through the CCTV footage and probing the matter. AIMIM MLA Imtiyaz Jaleel said Owaisi was unhurt and continued his speech after the incident. "We do not care for such incidents. Some people and parties do not want us to speak the truth. Owaisi continued with his speech (despite the incident). We simply ignore these type of acts," he added.

Shoe thrown at Asaduddin Owaisi during Mumbai rally

In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress.&nbsp;

Modi, who had earlier spoken in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-heckles-pm-modi-as-he-speaks-in-lok-sabha-32078" target="_blank">Lok Sabha for over two hours</a>, spoke in the Rajya Sabha this time for over an hour. The first speech too had been vitriolic in content -- and was interrupted again --&nbsp;with Modi saying it was not Nehru who had won India its independence (like the Congress likes to keep reminding us).&nbsp;

This time Modi said the idea of a Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhiji&#39;s:&nbsp;

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Aapko Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahaiye mujhe bhi Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahiye. Gandhi Ji ne kaha tha ab aazaadi mil gayi ab Congress ki zaroorat nahi hai: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha <a href="https://t.co/Qw1jj8DY2P">pic.twitter.com/Qw1jj8DY2P</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961187854566207488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Look at what all you mocked- Swachh Bharat, Make in India, surgical strikes, Yoga Day. You are free to mock as you please but why are you blocking the bill for OBC Commission? Why are you blocking Triple Talaq Bill. Are you not sensitive to the aspirations of OBCs?: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/rG169fwcdQ">pic.twitter.com/rG169fwcdQ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961197451519684608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Modi took on the Congress for their opposition to the triple talaq bill.

You say there will be no one to look after the family of a Muslim man who uses triple talaq to leave his wife and is then jailed, said Modi. But what happens when a Hindu man gets married for a second time is jailed?&nbsp;Who will look after his family? &nbsp;

Modi said the opposition was obsessed with him but that in in criticising him, they cross the line.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-on-opposition-during-parliament-speech-highlights-32083" target="_blank">PM Modi takes on opposition during Parliament speech:</a> Top 20 highlights

Mock me, Modi said, mock the BJP -- but don&#39;t hurt India.&nbsp;

&quot;BJP ki burai karte karte aap Bharat ki burai karne lag jaate hain. Modi par hamla bolte bolte aap Hindustan par hamla bolne lag jaate hain,&quot; Modi said.&nbsp;

Congress culture to take credit, refuse responsibility

It is the Congress&#39; culture to take credit, Modi said.&nbsp;

​&quot;You complain that I don&#39;t give enough credit to your party and its legacy. Well, starting projects and then putting them on the backburner is your legacy and I give you credit for it,&quot; Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi&#39;s speech in the Rajya Sabha was interrupted by Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury.&nbsp;

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Sabhapati Ji meri aapse vinti hai Renuka Ji ko kuch mat kahiye. Ramayan serial ke baad aisi hansi sunne ka saubhagya aaj jaake mila hai: PM Modi on Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury laughing during his speech in Rajya Sabha
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961192558591430657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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We were waiting for the PM to make some serious response to the points raised by the opposition, he said nothing. Only Bhashan, no action, no vision so after 15 minutes TMC staged a walkout from Rajya Sabha while the PM was speaking : Derek O&#39;Brien, Trinamool Congress MP <a href="https://t.co/OAz2BbZuuL">pic.twitter.com/OAz2BbZuuL</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961206886929518598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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बहुत लम्बी थी साहेब की बात 
सदन में दिन को बता दिया रात 
 
अपनी नाकामियों पर डाले पर्दे 
अफसोस भाषण से गायब थे देश के मुद्दे 
 
प्रधानमंत्रीजी चुप्पी कब तोड़ेंगे 
राफेल डील पर आखिर कब बोलेंगे?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PradhanMantriJawabDo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PradhanMantriJawabDo</a>
&mdash; Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG/status/961194197683462144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A visibly-angry Modi&#39;s speech in the Lok Sabha had also been interrupted by the Opposition.&nbsp;

Simulatenous elections

Modi again brought up the idea of simulatenous general and state elections. &quot;Let us have a constructive discussion,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

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You said we are Name Changers and not Game Changers but if you notice our mode of operation and working pattern you will realise we are Aim Changers. We plan our action, set the road map so that we take the nation on the path to development: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/SFyMzRmgee">pic.twitter.com/SFyMzRmgee</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961189054476963841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I have always said that for the nation&#39;s development so far, all the previous govt&#39;s have made a contribution: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha <a href="https://t.co/p5wWy7dyCr">pic.twitter.com/p5wWy7dyCr</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961189440478728192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He added that the Congress had ignored Sardar Patel&#39; for years, and had invoked his memory only for political gain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And he added that it was the BJP which first thought up the idea of Aadhaar. &quot;Congress keeps saying we brought Aadhaar. Let me remind them about a debate in the Rajya Sabha in 1998 and what LK Advani Ji said. It is in his speech that you will find the genesis of Aadhaar,&quot; he said.

After having spoken in the Lok Sabha, Modi was speaking in the Rajya Sabha

In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress. Modi, who had earlier spoken in the Lok Sabha for over two hours, spoke in the Rajya Sabha this time for over an hour. The first speech too had been vitriolic in content -- and was interrupted again -- with Modi saying it was not Nehru who had won India its independence (like the Congress likes to keep reminding us). This time Modi said the idea of a Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhiji's: Aapko Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahaiye mujhe bhi Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahiye. Gandhi Ji ne kaha tha ab aazaadi mil gayi ab Congress ki zaroorat nahi hai: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha pic.twitter.com/Qw1jj8DY2P — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × Look at what all you mocked- Swachh Bharat, Make in India, surgical strikes, Yoga Day. You are free to mock as you please but why are you blocking the bill for OBC Commission? Why are you blocking Triple Talaq Bill. Are you not sensitive to the aspirations of OBCs?: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/rG169fwcdQ — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × Modi took on the Congress for their opposition to the triple talaq bill. You say there will be no one to look after the family of a Muslim man who uses triple talaq to leave his wife and is then jailed, said Modi. But what happens when a Hindu man gets married for a second time is jailed? Who will look after his family? Modi said the opposition was obsessed with him but that in in criticising him, they cross the line. PM Modi takes on opposition during Parliament speech: Top 20 highlights Mock me, Modi said, mock the BJP -- but don't hurt India. "BJP ki burai karte karte aap Bharat ki burai karne lag jaate hain. Modi par hamla bolte bolte aap Hindustan par hamla bolne lag jaate hain," Modi said. Congress culture to take credit, refuse responsibility It is the Congress' culture to take credit, Modi said. "You complain that I don't give enough credit to your party and its legacy. Well, starting projects and then putting them on the backburner is your legacy and I give you credit for it," Modi said. Modi's speech in the Rajya Sabha was interrupted by Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury. Sabhapati Ji meri aapse vinti hai Renuka Ji ko kuch mat kahiye. Ramayan serial ke baad aisi hansi sunne ka saubhagya aaj jaake mila hai: PM Modi on Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury laughing during his speech in Rajya Sabha — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × We were waiting for the PM to make some serious response to the points raised by the opposition, he said nothing. Only Bhashan, no action, no vision so after 15 minutes TMC staged a walkout from Rajya Sabha while the PM was speaking : Derek O'Brien, Trinamool Congress MP pic.twitter.com/OAz2BbZuuL — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × बहुत लम्बी थी साहेब की बात सदन में दिन को बता दिया रात अपनी नाकामियों पर डाले पर्दे अफसोस भाषण से गायब थे देश के मुद्दे प्रधानमंत्रीजी चुप्पी कब तोड़ेंगे राफेल डील पर आखिर कब बोलेंगे?#PradhanMantriJawabDo — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 7, 2018 × A visibly-angry Modi's speech in the Lok Sabha had also been interrupted by the Opposition. Simulatenous elections Modi again brought up the idea of simulatenous general and state elections. "Let us have a constructive discussion," he said. You said we are Name Changers and not Game Changers but if you notice our mode of operation and working pattern you will realise we are Aim Changers. We plan our action, set the road map so that we take the nation on the path to development: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/SFyMzRmgee — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × I have always said that for the nation's development so far, all the previous govt's have made a contribution: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha pic.twitter.com/p5wWy7dyCr — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × He added that the Congress had ignored Sardar Patel' for years, and had invoked his memory only for political gain. And he added that it was the BJP which first thought up the idea of Aadhaar. "Congress keeps saying we brought Aadhaar. Let me remind them about a debate in the Rajya Sabha in 1998 and what LK Advani Ji said. It is in his speech that you will find the genesis of Aadhaar," he said.

Modi continues attack on opposition, says Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhi's idea

On January 30th, 1948, Gandhiji was killed. This year marks his 70th death anniversary. Twice every year, on Gandhi&#39;s birthday on 2nd October and his death anniversary on 30 January, the country remembers the &#39;Father of the Nation&#39;. Both these dates are celebrated amidst much fanfare; there are seminars and conferences across the country. Long lectures abound. Intellectuals and politicians prepare notes of their speeches based on Gandhi&#39;s ideas.&nbsp;

But, sadly, soon with the end of these occasions, Gandhi&#39;s ideas are put into the freezer.&nbsp;

India respects Gandhi but ignores his message

Gandhiji&#39;s unifying role in bringing together a country as diverse as India is beyond question. However, his contribution has been largely forgotten by the state and the society. This collective amnesia is best proven in instances where government employees, unhesitatingly, take bribes in front of the framed pictures of Mahatma Gandhi which adorns almost all government offices of India.

The blood of the common men of India fills up the pocket of these corrupt officials. They lie, prepare incorrect reports and fool the citizens of the nation.

Possibly, all the major crossings of the country have a statue of Gandhiji. But that does not deter anyone from committing some of the heinous crimes on the roads and streets of India.&nbsp;

Gandhi said, see no evil, speak no evil and don&#39;t listen to evil. However, we have learned not to pay heed to the most basic tenets of Gandhi&#39;s teachings. We continue, unhindered, to witness, speak and listen to evil.&nbsp;

The civil society stands in full support whenever it feels the freedom of expression is threatened but no one is willing to take responsibility for expressing the ideas concerned.&nbsp;

Gandhi&#39;s global influence

In the history of human civilisation, Gandhi is unique for devising an unprecedented strategy of protest. He proved that one can oppose a powerful and oppressive regime without shedding a drop of blood. Without hurting anyone physically, through the most peaceful of means, one can bring about a change.&nbsp;

Gandhi&#39;s ideas of non-violence and non-cooperation were an inspiration to the rest of the world. The human rights activist Martin Luther King who fought civil rights of the African-Americans took his political and ideological lessons from Gandhi.

Similarly, South Africa&#39;s Nelson Mandela infused his politics with Gandhi&#39;s ideas and action plans.&nbsp;

It is undeniable, how 70 years after his death, Gandhi continues to be relevant to the rest of the world.&nbsp;

Barack Obama, the former US president, acknowledged Gandhi&#39;s influence on him. We will hardly find a political leader in India who ends his speech without mentioning or quoting Gandhi.&nbsp; Not to mention, one political family in India who retained power through decades using their &#39;Gandhi&#39; surname.

Notwithstanding the profound influence that Gandhi had across space and time, he did not receive the Nobel prize. Perhaps, Gandhi was bigger than the prize. But another question crops up whether there was a secret agenda that denied Gandhi of the Nobel Peace Prize. After all, the politics surrounding the Nobel Prize is pretty well known to anyone who cares to explore.&nbsp;

Why did Gandhi not get the Nobel Peace Prize?

Now, the committee responsible for awarding the Nobel prize regrets that they did not give Gandhi the award when he was alive and fighting for India&#39;s freedom against a mighty opponent. What people, generally, think is that Norway&#39;s Nobel Prize Committee did not want to upset the Britishers who were India&#39;s colonial master.&nbsp;

But in reality, appeasement was not the only reason.

Gandhi was nominated 5 times for the Nobel prize: in 1937, 1938, 1939, 1947 and in 1948.

In the first instance, a member of Norway&#39;s Parliament proposed Gandhi&#39;s name but it was overlooked by the committee.

Our research revealed a letter written by Prof. Jacob Worm-Muller who served as a consultant advisor to the committee. Reading the letter makes it very clear that Worm-Muller praised Gandhi but he also mentioned that he can not trust the latter&#39;s personality.

&quot;He is undoubtedly a good, noble and ascetic person &mdash; a prominent man who is deservedly honored and loved by the masses of India. But there are sharp turns in his policies, which can hardly be satisfactorily explained by his followers. He is a freedom fighter and a dictator, an idealist and a nationalist. He is frequently a Christ, but then, suddenly, an ordinary politician&quot;

Jacob Muller presented his thought in the year 1937 in front of the Committee. There were a lot of people at that time who were unable to understand Gandhi&#39;s ideology. Because, on the one hand, he was living a life of a saint, on the other hand, he was a lawyer. Gandhi while speaking about truth, non-violence and morality, was also fully aware of the working of the colonial machinery. This knowledge of the colonial system enabled Mahatma to counter the colonial rule like a seasoned politician. This is what the Nobel Committee, perhaps, found confusing. Is Gandhi a saint or a politician.

Prof. Muller also wrote that Gandhi was not completely non-violent. Muller said that Gandhi&#39;s nationalism is limited to the Indians. Even in South Africa, Gandhi&#39;s action was limited to the Indian communities living there.&nbsp;

What Prof. Muller mentioned about Gandhiji was unfortunate as Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King got the Nobel prize. And they were themselves a follower of Gandhi. It is very surprising that those who were inspired by Gandhi got the Nobel prize, but Gandhi did not.

Though Gandhi never expected any prize as an acknowledgment for his work.

After 1937, Gandhi was nominated in 1938 and 1939, but his name was not even shortlisted.

In 1947, it was expected that Gandhi will receive the Nobel but again the committee did not consider him.

It was happening because there were many powerful forces that were influencing the decisions of the Nobel Committee and there were some international media houses too behind this who acted against Gandhi&#39;s nomination.

Jens Arup Seip, the advisor of Nobel Prize Committee, supported Gandhi&#39;s case in 1947 but even then he did not receive the prize.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Seip&#39;s report gives a detailed account of the events that happened during 1937 to 1947. In 1947, Gandhiji was one among other 6 listed candidates but over Gandhi&#39;s name, there was a huge conflict among the jury members.

During that time, Gandhiji said in a rally that, &quot;If such practice would continue that India might declare war against Pakistan&quot;

This report was published in Britain&#39;s newspaper &quot;The Times&quot; which went against Gandhi. Consequently, 3 of 5 jury members voted against him and Gandhi did not receive the Nobel Prize.

While the Nobel Committee kept itself busy trying to find violence in the non-violent politics of Mahatma, it did not hesitate to award the Nobel Peace Prize to Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt, a US president, had been a career soldier. He had participated in several wars but Nobel Committee chose to forget all that and focused only on Roosevelt&#39;s effort to stop the war between Russia and Japan in 1905.

In the year 1948, Gandhiji had a huge chance of winning the Nobel prize but 2 days before the announcement, Gandhi was assassinated. There had been no tradition of posthumous awarding of Nobel prize. Even then there was a buzz that Gandhi might be the first one to receive it after death but in absence of a trust or organisation which could have taken the prize in Gandhi&#39;s absence, the idea was aborted.&nbsp;

That year the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to no one. On Gandhi&#39;s 70th death anniversary, the Nobel Committee paid its tribute to Gandhi, stating &quot;That year, the Nobel Committee decided to make no award on the grounds that &quot;there was no suitable living candidate&quot;. This definitely implies that Gandhi was the chosen candidate in 1948 and death robbed him of that honour.&nbsp;

In 1989, while awarding Dalai Lama of the Nobel Peace Prize, the Committee openly admitted that it was a mistake not to award Gandhiji.&nbsp;

Gandhiji, history has proven, does not need the Nobel Prize to exercise his influence across the world. But the Nobel Committee needs Gandhiji to enhance its stature. If the Nobel Committee wants, it can rectify its past mistake easily. Even new laws can be brought about to honour a great man like Gandhiji. Perhaps, it is about time that the Nobel Committee considers Mahatma Gandhi as the first posthumous awardee of the Nobel Prize.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Colonial politics of the time, particularly the prejudice of the Nobel Committee and its lack of understanding of the many contradiction of Gandhi's political career robbed Mahatma Gandhi of Nobel Peace Prize.

On January 30th, 1948, Gandhiji was killed. This year marks his 70th death anniversary. Twice every year, on Gandhi's birthday on 2nd October and his death anniversary on 30 January, the country remembers the 'Father of the Nation'. Both these dates are celebrated amidst much fanfare; there are seminars and conferences across the country. Long lectures abound. Intellectuals and politicians prepare notes of their speeches based on Gandhi's ideas. But, sadly, soon with the end of these occasions, Gandhi's ideas are put into the freezer. India respects Gandhi but ignores his message Gandhiji's unifying role in bringing together a country as diverse as India is beyond question. However, his contribution has been largely forgotten by the state and the society. This collective amnesia is best proven in instances where government employees, unhesitatingly, take bribes in front of the framed pictures of Mahatma Gandhi which adorns almost all government offices of India. The blood of the common men of India fills up the pocket of these corrupt officials. They lie, prepare incorrect reports and fool the citizens of the nation. Possibly, all the major crossings of the country have a statue of Gandhiji. But that does not deter anyone from committing some of the heinous crimes on the roads and streets of India. Gandhi said, see no evil, speak no evil and don't listen to evil. However, we have learned not to pay heed to the most basic tenets of Gandhi's teachings. We continue, unhindered, to witness, speak and listen to evil. The civil society stands in full support whenever it feels the freedom of expression is threatened but no one is willing to take responsibility for expressing the ideas concerned. Gandhi's global influence In the history of human civilisation, Gandhi is unique for devising an unprecedented strategy of protest. He proved that one can oppose a powerful and oppressive regime without shedding a drop of blood. Without hurting anyone physically, through the most peaceful of means, one can bring about a change. Gandhi's ideas of non-violence and non-cooperation were an inspiration to the rest of the world. The human rights activist Martin Luther King who fought civil rights of the African-Americans took his political and ideological lessons from Gandhi. Similarly, South Africa's Nelson Mandela infused his politics with Gandhi's ideas and action plans. It is undeniable, how 70 years after his death, Gandhi continues to be relevant to the rest of the world. Barack Obama, the former US president, acknowledged Gandhi's influence on him. We will hardly find a political leader in India who ends his speech without mentioning or quoting Gandhi. Not to mention, one political family in India who retained power through decades using their 'Gandhi' surname. Notwithstanding the profound influence that Gandhi had across space and time, he did not receive the Nobel prize. Perhaps, Gandhi was bigger than the prize. But another question crops up whether there was a secret agenda that denied Gandhi of the Nobel Peace Prize. After all, the politics surrounding the Nobel Prize is pretty well known to anyone who cares to explore. Why did Gandhi not get the Nobel Peace Prize? Now, the committee responsible for awarding the Nobel prize regrets that they did not give Gandhi the award when he was alive and fighting for India's freedom against a mighty opponent. What people, generally, think is that Norway's Nobel Prize Committee did not want to upset the Britishers who were India's colonial master. But in reality, appeasement was not the only reason. Gandhi was nominated 5 times for the Nobel prize: in 1937, 1938, 1939, 1947 and in 1948. In the first instance, a member of Norway's Parliament proposed Gandhi's name but it was overlooked by the committee. Our research revealed a letter written by Prof. Jacob Worm-Muller who served as a consultant advisor to the committee. Reading the letter makes it very clear that Worm-Muller praised Gandhi but he also mentioned that he can not trust the latter's personality. "He is undoubtedly a good, noble and ascetic person — a prominent man who is deservedly honored and loved by the masses of India. But there are sharp turns in his policies, which can hardly be satisfactorily explained by his followers. He is a freedom fighter and a dictator, an idealist and a nationalist. He is frequently a Christ, but then, suddenly, an ordinary politician" Jacob Muller presented his thought in the year 1937 in front of the Committee. There were a lot of people at that time who were unable to understand Gandhi's ideology. Because, on the one hand, he was living a life of a saint, on the other hand, he was a lawyer. Gandhi while speaking about truth, non-violence and morality, was also fully aware of the working of the colonial machinery. This knowledge of the colonial system enabled Mahatma to counter the colonial rule like a seasoned politician. This is what the Nobel Committee, perhaps, found confusing. Is Gandhi a saint or a politician. Prof. Muller also wrote that Gandhi was not completely non-violent. Muller said that Gandhi's nationalism is limited to the Indians. Even in South Africa, Gandhi's action was limited to the Indian communities living there. What Prof. Muller mentioned about Gandhiji was unfortunate as Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King got the Nobel prize. And they were themselves a follower of Gandhi. It is very surprising that those who were inspired by Gandhi got the Nobel prize, but Gandhi did not. Though Gandhi never expected any prize as an acknowledgment for his work. After 1937, Gandhi was nominated in 1938 and 1939, but his name was not even shortlisted. In 1947, it was expected that Gandhi will receive the Nobel but again the committee did not consider him. It was happening because there were many powerful forces that were influencing the decisions of the Nobel Committee and there were some international media houses too behind this who acted against Gandhi's nomination. Jens Arup Seip, the advisor of Nobel Prize Committee, supported Gandhi's case in 1947 but even then he did not receive the prize. Seip's report gives a detailed account of the events that happened during 1937 to 1947. In 1947, Gandhiji was one among other 6 listed candidates but over Gandhi's name, there was a huge conflict among the jury members. During that time, Gandhiji said in a rally that, "If such practice would continue that India might declare war against Pakistan" This report was published in Britain's newspaper "The Times" which went against Gandhi. Consequently, 3 of 5 jury members voted against him and Gandhi did not receive the Nobel Prize. While the Nobel Committee kept itself busy trying to find violence in the non-violent politics of Mahatma, it did not hesitate to award the Nobel Peace Prize to Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt, a US president, had been a career soldier. He had participated in several wars but Nobel Committee chose to forget all that and focused only on Roosevelt's effort to stop the war between Russia and Japan in 1905. In the year 1948, Gandhiji had a huge chance of winning the Nobel prize but 2 days before the announcement, Gandhi was assassinated. There had been no tradition of posthumous awarding of Nobel prize. Even then there was a buzz that Gandhi might be the first one to receive it after death but in absence of a trust or organisation which could have taken the prize in Gandhi's absence, the idea was aborted. That year the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to no one. On Gandhi's 70th death anniversary, the Nobel Committee paid its tribute to Gandhi, stating "That year, the Nobel Committee decided to make no award on the grounds that "there was no suitable living candidate". This definitely implies that Gandhi was the chosen candidate in 1948 and death robbed him of that honour. In 1989, while awarding Dalai Lama of the Nobel Peace Prize, the Committee openly admitted that it was a mistake not to award Gandhiji. Gandhiji, history has proven, does not need the Nobel Prize to exercise his influence across the world. But the Nobel Committee needs Gandhiji to enhance its stature. If the Nobel Committee wants, it can rectify its past mistake easily. Even new laws can be brought about to honour a great man like Gandhiji. Perhaps, it is about time that the Nobel Committee considers Mahatma Gandhi as the first posthumous awardee of the Nobel Prize. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why Gandhiji did not get the Nobel Prize

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