Human rights violations against Kashmiri Pandits; dismantle terrorist infrastructure: US Congress resolution

Congressman Frank Pallone has introduced the Kashmir resolution HR 387. on August 1, 2011 in the House of Representatives. Please see the actual draft below:

HRES 387 IH

112th CONGRESS
1st Session

H. RES. 387
Recognizing that the religious freedom and human rights violations of Kashmiri Pandits has been ongoing since 1989.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
August 1, 2011
RESOLUTION

Recognizing that the religious freedom and human rights violations of Kashmiri Pandits has been ongoing since 1989.

Whereas Jammu and Kashmir has an ancient culture of religious tolerance and pluralism, where Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Christians practiced their faith freely in an atmosphere of mutual respect and peace until 1989;

Whereas Kashmiri Pandits are the original inhabitants of Kashmir, tracing their heritage and culture back several millennia;

Whereas Kashmiri Pandits have been the victims of documented human rights violations resulting in the severe curtailment of their religious freedom for more than two decades;

Whereas the Kashmiri Pandit population has declined from 400,000 in 1989 to a current level of less than 4,000 in the Kashmir valley and many Pandits continue to live in refugee camps;

Whereas international human rights organizations have noted the campaign of intimidation and violence directed by foreign militants and foreign terrorist organizations against Kashmiri Pandits;

Whereas thousands of Kashmiri Pandits, elected officials, and military personnel have been killed in terrorist attacks; and

Whereas numerous groups that have claimed responsibility for these attacks have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the United States Department of State: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) condemns the extremist violence, lack of religious freedom, and human rights violations committed against Kashmiri Pandits, which they have endured for more than two decades; and
(2) insists that terrorist infrastructure in the region must be dismantled and terrorists should be held accountable for their actions.

END

Amrita Bazaar Patrika’s historic Gallup Poll saved Bengali Hindus

Every so often strange things do happen in lives, potent enough to exert strong influences on any individual or notion forever. Any such influence may also lead to a different direction or change the course of life on the whole.

Well, we are not here to delve into Hindu spiritualism or any other thing like that but to have a discussion on a survey that changed the course of history in Indian subcontinent once and for all albeit discarded by scholars for weird (governed by self-seeking factors a lot) reasons.

The subject here is the historic Gallup Poll conducted under the aegis of Amrita Bazaar Patrika, highly esteemed daily in Bengal in tumultuous 1940s, in 1947 to comprehend the general mindset of then Bengali Hindus, anguished and petrified, thanks to Muslim League-led atrocities – whether they were for a non-partitioned Bengal or a separate homeland for Bengali Hindus.

It must be taken into account that the then British Government’s annunciation of Partition Proposal in 1947, in the days following Great Calcutta Killing and infamous anti-Hindu pogrom in Noakhali, added salt to the gaping wound of Hindus only. A substantial portion of them were not ready to live beside their erstwhile Muslim neighbors anymore while others remained bewildered. This led to further developments too.

Contrary to the clamor of Muslim League to have Pakistan, feeling of need of own homeland to get rid of Islamic atrocities started to gain ground among Bengali Hindus. However, to make it official there was the need of a strong movement and in absence of a strong Hindu leadership (as usual always), Gallup Poll performed the historical duty.

On March 23, 1947 edition of Patrika, a simple but razor-sharp question was asked to its readers. “Do you want a separate homeland for Bengali Hindus?” was asked directly and without a shred of doubt. The same question was repeated on a daily basis in subsequent issues till April 15, 1947. Indeed, there was a brief break of two or three days in the intervening time.

Result of Gallup Poll was announced in the April 23, 1947 edition of Amrita Bazaar Patrika. The result stated clearly that 5,34,239 answers were submitted till April 15, 1947. And its meticulous scrutiny generated the subsequent result. YES – 98.3%; NO – 0.6%; REJECTED – 1.16%.

Was this study authentic? This question, expected and significant, did turn up then as well. To brush aside any such disarray, Amrita Bazaar Patrika referred Sri Surendra Mohan Ghosh, president of then Bengal Provincial Congress Committee and he termed the study not only as momentous but as ‘regular and valid’ also.

To prove its honesty more, Amrita Bazaar Patrika also reported that Messer’s Gupta & Mitra, one of the most distinguished CA (Chartered Accountant) firms in then Calcutta, had certified that the Gallup Poll was ‘substantially accurate.’ Publication of Gallup Poll created an awe-inspiring effect among Bengali Hindus, British Governance and Muslim League and galvanized the struggle for a separate Bengali Hindu homeland under the headship of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee.

The struggle fought tooth and nail subsequently culminated with the creation of West Bengal, Bengali Hindu homeland in India.

Durgadas Rathore

Definition of Bravery

Even if Islamic suzerainty has been inflicting more and more tortures on Hindus for more than a millennium and Hindus alas have not been sufficient enough to usurp the same satanic design, there has never been any dearth of gallant Hindu warriors, intent to sacrifice all to defend Dharma. Durgadas Rathore is one of them and has been influencing the brave chronicles of India, especially annals of Marwar, through centuries.

Here is also a question. What does make him so important? Was he as valiant as Prithviraj Chauhan? Any such question is futile, especially at this juncture, since exploits of one can’t be equaled with another, representing a different age on the whole. What makes him incomparable is his inexplicable valiance, self-possession and strength to confront the then mighty Mughal empire, to preserve rule of the Rathore dynasty in Marwar, following sudden death of its ruler, Maharaja Jaswant Singh in 17 th century.

On the word of historians, his single-handed effort saved one of the last citadels of Hindu empire in Rajputana and its preset Islamization, sole intention of Aurangzeb, reigning Mughal emperor then. It is to be noted, Durgadas’ birth took place in the Kanot branch of Rathore clan and he was a Suryavanshi Rathore Rajput in person. Owing to his valorous deeds in youth, Durgadas got hold of Maharaja Jaswant Singh’s attention; he got apportionment in the royal army and started excelling.

Abrupt death of Maharaja in 1679 devoid of any immediate male heir appeared to be a perfect ploy for the Mughal administration to interfere and bring the state under Islamic rule directly. Aurangzeb, to maintain state’s regular affairs, appointed a Muslim ruler to rule Marwar hurting its Hindu subjects and in particular, Rathore clan. When Maharaja’s widow queen (pregnant during his death) gave birth to a male child, Ajit Singh, it led to a sigh of relief among Hindus.

Noblemen of Marwar including Durgadas Rathore, with infant Ajit Singh, went to Delhi to make the emperor acknowledge his due rights. As an ideal Islamic iconoclast and fervent champion to Islamize India, Aurangzeb did not hem and haw and proposed that the infant king’s upbringing must be under his own guidance in Delhi. The proposal was thoroughly deplorable to Rathore clan, considering it as worst assault on their religious belief. But they had to yield to it for the time being.

Historians confirm that Ajit Singh along his mother was living in “Bhuli Bhatiyari" close to Jhandewalan of modern Delhi. Durgadas Rathore, in the interim, with others of the royal delegation, got engaged in smuggling Ajit Singh out of Delhi. A startling planning was made.

On a momentous night, Durgadas fastened infant king on his back and with 300 other Rajputs, especially Thakur Mokam Singh Balunda and Mukund Das Khichi, escaped.

As per the secret planning, Baghleji, wife of Thakur Mokam Singh Balunda, placed her own infant girl instead of Ajit Singh. But while approaching to fringes of Delhi, Rajputs were identified. It was a followed by an extremely fierce and close range fight between the two armies. Mughal army, as usual, was gigantic compared to Rajputs but the later could not be subdued even for once.

In the vicious struggle, 15-20 Rajput warriors were found to resist pursuing Mughal army every so often and got killed. During the combat, Thakur Mokam Singh Balunda along with his son was severely injured and in the evening Durgadas Rathore was left with just 7 Rajputs among 300, his original force. But nothing could prevent him and he managed to escape with the infant king safely to Balunda.

Completely humiliated Mughal empire, following this incident, made several attempts to seize independence of Marwar. But it remained under a Mughal governor in a self-autonomous manner. Durgadas Rathore was the last person to sit down silently after this; he conducted struggles like plundering trades of Mughal empire, attacking imperial armies from time to time affecting treasure of empire a great deal.

Nevertheless, his best chance came with the death of Aurangzeb in 1707. Taking this opportunity Durgadas occupied Jodhpur and grownup Ajit Singh was declared as Maharaja of Jodhpur. Durgadas Rathore also adopted a policy to rebuild all temples desecrated by Muslims in the past.

Thus he accomplished his objective. Durgadas Rathore, after a few years, left Jodhour and went to Ujjain to worship Mahakal. He breathed his last at the age of 81 years on November 22, 1718, on the banks of Shipra River at Ujjain.

Here is a commentary of Colonel James Tod of Durgadas Rathore.

“What a splendid example is the heroic Durgadas, of all that constitutes the glory of Rajput valor, loyalty, integrity combined with prudence in all the difficulties which surrounded him, are qualities which entitle him to the admiration which his memory continues to enjoy.

The temptations held out to him were almost irresistible... Durga had, indeed, but to name his reward, but as the bard justly says, he was ‘amolak’ beyond all price ‘anokha’ unique. not even revenge, so dear to the Rajput, turned him aside from the dictates of true honor... but to conclude our eulogy in, the words of the bard, he has reaped the immortality destined for good deeds, his memory id cherished, his actions are the theme of constant praise, and his picture on his white horse, old, yet in vigor, is familiar amongst the collections of portraits of Rajputana.”

Hindu India needs another Durgadas Rathore at this instant.

Hindu wrath to stop Friday 'namaz' prayers in Toronto school overwhelming

Even if the Indian Hindus are futile still to lodge any sound protest or campaign against rising Islamic atrocities in India aided by its political cohorts, American Hindus are determined to walk in the opposite direction. They are definite to nip any such approach in the bud and anger of an assortment of Hindu advocacy groups against Friday 'namaz' prayers at a school in the Toronto suburb of North York confirm the same spirit.

Hindu advocacy groups wish for the 40-minute prayers, conducted by an 'imam' specially brought from a mosque, to be stopped without more ado.

Canadian Hindu Advocacy in the vicinity, under aegis of Ron Banerjee, is involving assorted Hindu organizations to hold protests outside the school to pressure management to stop the Friday prayers. "This is alarming and unacceptable. We respect the separation of church and state," Banerjee said in interviews to the media.

"There's not supposed to be any religious classes taking place in public schools. We will be asking the board to stop the practice," in accordance with Banerjee. He also said that the advocacy group is adopting all constitutional measures, including writing letters to Toronto District School Board (TDSB), to put an end to all these. They are planning to make TDSB to get involved and instruct the concerned school management to call the Friday 'namaz' prayers a halt.

The school has the responsibility for ensuring secular education for students, Ron Banerjee stated with conviction. Distressed parents of Hindu students at the Valley Park Middle School had brought this practice to their notice.

Nevertheless, Hindu advocacy groups refuse to stop here. In keeping with Ron Banerjee Hindu groups will also start protesting against "the serving of 'halal' meat within TDSB schools.” He made this clear through stating, “Our organization is determined to ensure all Hindu students are provided non-'halal' meat alternatives."

Muslim fundamentalist groups, remaining ever busy to introduce Islamic curriculum everywhere, are experiencing such an organized, dedicated Hindu wrath first in Toronto.

Fitna helps to know Islamic extremism best

Fitna was released in 2008 and even it received a wide acclamation among victims of Islamic persecutions and intellectuals (freed from decade-long obsession to speak for worldwide harmony only and not the ominous changes), there was condemnation too, especially among Islamist intellectuals and Marxist theoreticians. But their voices have also calm downed in these years, thanks to crueler (more roughshod) manifestation of global Islamic extremism and its finest depiction through Fitna, creating a spell on viewers.

But Fitna is neither any fiction nor any series of photographs or anything else. In reality, Fitna is a brief political film made under the auspices of Geert Wilders, well-known critic of Islam, and his views examining Islam. Here is a few more info on its aspects. While the motion picture is almost 17 minutes in length, it brings forth an assortment of (though selected) excerpts from Suras of the Qur'an, combined with media clips, newspaper cuttings portraying barbarous acts of violence, persecution by Islamic supremacists.

In short, Fitna makes a grievous and valorous endeavor to exhibit how Qur'an propels its adherents to detest all violators of Islamic teachings or persons daring to have faith in other religious beliefs. The film, from the day 1 of its formal release, led to a foul cry among Muslims and as per reports, Geert Wilders also received quite a few life threatening warnings. Fitna is an Arabic word indicating "disagreement and division among people" or a "test of faith in times of trial.” On the word of Geert Wilders, the movie is "a call to shake off the creeping tyranny of Islamization."

Fitna, to be precise, states with conviction that Islam invigorates dreadful acts of terrorism, anti-Semitism, violence against women, violence and suppression of "infidels" and against homosexuals and Islamic universalism. An extensive portion of the movie speaks of Islam’s role (intensifying with time) in Netherlands, known more as first bastion of Eurabia these days.

Nevertheless, Fitna’s experiences in the days following its formal publication on the internet in 2008 were not solacing. There were several interruptions in its showings emanating from abrupt closure of show and raging protests.

Continual backing of its followers has been the greatest force behind Fitna and its growing popularity. If one is interested to know of Islamic terrorism and related aspects, Fitna must be watched.

Sachar Committee Report – political gimmick of Congress

Salman Khursheed fails to rely on it even

Is the Rajinder Sachar Committee Report, meant to find out problems tormenting Indian Muslims and resolve those straight away, a mere political stance? Considering such is indeed shocking but there can’t be anything else if the fresh speech of Salman Khursheed, UPA Minister for Minorities Affairs, is taken into account. To be precise, the Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, speaking at a function in Chennai on June 25, brought to the fore some issues regarding the Rajinder Sachar Committee Report, enough to raise eyebrows. He was found to state categorically “the recommendations of Sachar Committee Report are not divine like Quran; they can be wrong also and that’s why one must approach them critically.”

All these indicate that Salman Khursheed oppugned the very basis Sachar Committee Report and also is the last person to hinge on its recommendations to better Muslims. He was delivering an oration on ‘Minorities of India: Issues and Challenges,' at the Justice Basheer Ahmed Sayeed College for Women. Dismaying many on the podium and to the astonishment of the audience, the Minister went on saying that by critical approach he indicated that the overall impact and benefits of Report on Muslims must be analyzed prior to its acceptance wholeheartedly.

It is worthwhile to mention that the Rajinder Sachar Committee was appointed by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in March 2005 and there was the inclusion of several dignitaries in the team to prepare a comprehensive, authentic report on the social, economic and educational position of the Muslim community of India. The Report was submitted in Parliament on 30 November 2006 – 20 months after getting the terms from the PMO.

On the word of Salman Khursheed, Report might benefit the community in the short term but it could also lead to its further ghettoization, ruinous for the community in the long term as it will stop Muslims’ mainstreaming. He also emphasized the fact that Muslims’ never-ending expectations and advancements (every now and then) to Minorities Affairs Ministry (MMA) are not desirable. MMA, as per him, looks after other minorities too at the same instant.

Khursheed advised Muslims to approach the Ministry of Human Resources and Development (MHRD), affluent with a budget of over Rs 65,000 crore, instead of MMA.

Without doubt, the Minorities Affairs Minister’s assertion speaks of his distrust on UPA’s pet project to woo Muslims. Is his discourse fallout of an intra-party row also? Sachar Committee Report, at this moment in time, seems more a political gimmick of Congress-led UPA to keep its opposition and detractors at bay.

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Hindu Temples in United States – best messengers of Dharma

The Woodlands temple depicts essence of Hinduism to all

It is no longer a secret that the dream of founding fathers of modern Hindu movements, especially in the mid 20 th century, is getting true with time – Hinduism is getting prominent in other parts of the globe fast. West that became conscious of Hindu way of life, its fundamental beliefs and practices in early19 th century, has come a long way by now. It, at the moment, has got bored stiff of insensibility and authoritarian principles of other religions and hence, is extending its assistances to uphold Hinduism – religion that speaks of unity, diversity and also of harmony (essential to better humans on earth). The latest specimen of this endeavor is new temple dedicated to serve Hindus living in north Houston.

Houston is the largest city in Texas; positioned in southeastern Texas near the Gulf of Mexico; also site of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. It has also been learnt that this temple happens to be the lone one on the north side of the city, on an 8-acre lot along tree-lined Woodlands Parkway. The 10,000-square-foot building consists of an austere stone exterior — to abide by building codes. Well, what makes it most beautiful and also sanctified is that temple is home to the vibrant, flowery worship and ancient deities.

Obviously the next question should be of Hindu population in the vicinity. Reports affirm that The Woodlands is nothing except a thickly populated white-skinned Christian burb. But influx of Indian-American professionals in recent years has added religious miscellany to the entire area. And the administration is certainly helpful. At the moment there is the presence of almost 350 families in the vicinity and documents confirm that 20 to 25 families add to here yearly.

The $3 million temple is serving, at this point in time, Hindus living across Spring, Tomball, Conroe and northern Harris County. Indeed the temple is a great relief for these families as they had to travel to temples in Pearland or Sugar Land. The distance is almost an hour-and-a-half drive each way.

What are the other purposes of the temple other than performing essential rituals? The temple remains a precious resource for community celebrations, religious festivals and other community gatherings. But above all it caters to the needs of all the Hindus in the area, unlike older temples in Houston that concentrate on certain regional traditions.

Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee’s virile influence on Indian politics can’t be erased

The new book of Prashanto Kumar Chatterjree “Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee & Indian Politics” has been an imperative addition to annals of history in the Indian sub continent and compels the readers to think in a new manner. However, had the struggling mindset of Dr. Mookerjee been expressed more, the better would have been.

Whatever it is, while sitting in the armchair and going through the pages of history like an ardent student, ascendancy in Dr. Mookerjee’s career seems to be no less than meteoric. To be precise, his short yet highly significant political life (we are not heeding his brilliant academic career at the moment) is divided into a few phases.

These include his stint as Bengal’s Finance Minister (1941-42), mounting esteem of Hindu Mahasabha in Indian politics (1945-47), as a Union Minister (1947-50) and formation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (1950-53). Well, his gallant sacrifice in Kashmir agitation, especially against the capitulation of Nehru ministry to desires of global forces shielding Pakistan, rabid anti-Hindu since its birth, forms a different chapter altogether. But even in such paucity of time, Dr. Mookerjee had made whole-hearted efforts to save Hindu community, especially Bengali Hindus, with a prodigious ardor. All these indicate his untimely death in 1953 has bereaved India. His pragmatic policies, principally regarding Pakistan, could have saved the country from an assortment of flaws.

Let’s scrutinize his political career. Without a shred of doubt, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee was one of the very few Hindu leaders having experiences to work under a Muslim Premier, representing a Muslim-majority province of Bengal. Closely he had perceived stratagems of Fazlul Haq Ministry to lessen power of Hindus and turn them into second-class citizens or a hopeless minority – a minority group that can listen but can’t speak. He also noticed how mounting communalization of secondary education, discrimination in the matter of employment, abduction of Hindu women, forcible destruction of Hindu temples and hermitages were breaking moral fiber of Hindus. What led to all these? The answer is simple – Congress’ refusal to form a coalition with Haq. Fazlul Haq had to collide with Muslim League.

He resigned from Haq ministry on March 31, 1943, citing his inability to save Hindus. In his words , the greatest crime committed by anyone is that he/she is a Hindu (legacy is in full swing till date). In this context, the author quotes Prof Balraj Madhok: “The way he (Mookerjee) let go of the ministership, when he found that he could do no good to his people by continuing in the ministry, made it clear to all that here was a man whom no temptation could deflect from the path of duty. He had joined the coalition cabinet as a representative of the Hindu Mahasabha, but he came out of it as the undisputed leader of entire nationalist Bengal.”

Taking lessons from these, Mookerjee devoted himself entirely to the spiraling of the Hindu Mahasabha. He was convinced that the Congress was no more devoted to the welfare of the nation, mainly Hindus, on account of its policy of appeasement and soft attitudes while dealing with Muslim League.

1945-46 election results had proved yet again that the League was the one and only representative of Indian Muslims while Jinnah was their undisputed leader. To reinforce their claim for a separate homeland for Muslims on a religious basis, Jinnah gave a call for Direct Action in 1946 leading to Great Calcutta Killings of August 16, 1946. there were setbacks for Muslims indeed but the call solidified the image of Jinnah once and for all. Muslim League, following 1945-46 election, had laid claims to the addition of the whole of Bengal and Punjab provinces in Pakistan. But these vigorous attempts were foiled by the leonine presence of Dr. Mookerjee and had he not fought valiantly for division of said provinces (on religious lines) there were no hopes. Congress was too feeble compared with Muslim League.

Following independence, Dr. Mookerjee, owing to innate (but rare) qualities like perseverance and merit, was appointed a Minister in the first Cabinet under Jawaharlal Nehru. Before long thereafter, Pakistan resorted to the policy of ethnic cleansing of Hindus in East Pakistan (Bangladesh). Mass migration of Hindus occurred and getting anxious he told the Prime Minister that it was India’s duty to make protection of Hindus in Pakistan certain. Reluctance of Nehru to adopt strong measures against Pakistan made Dr. Mookerjee resign from the Central Cabinet.

Dr. Mookerjee, on November 15, 1952, with conviction stated in Parliament: “The question of the minorities in Pakistan has been settled during the last five years in different ways. So far as West Pakistan is concerned, today it stands virtually denuded of its minority population. The creation of a homogenous Islamic state was the principal aim of the founder of Pakistan and those who have come into his shoes have carried that deal into execution in every possible way. Hindus have been deprived of their rights in every sphere — social, cultural, economic, religious and political. They are treated as zimmis or protected citizens on regular payment of jizya.”

The same saga continues and Hindu persecution in Bangladesh (former East Pakistan) and Pakistan (despite having virtually no substantial Hindu-Sikh population) is rising by leaps and bounds.

Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee’s divine self-sacrifice inspires Hindus

How ungrateful can a nation be to disregard significance of June 23! This is not any common day but denotes divine self-sacrifice of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, noted educationist, political leader and above all a great patriot – defiant against anti-national forces constantly, for the cause of nation in 1953. Well, even if people continue to pay homage to him by offering garlands at his altar and through deeds, it is much less than expectation still.

What led to the mysterious death of Dr. Mookerjee? The lone tiger was fighting against the despicable decision of then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to grant state of Kashmir a special status and to have own flag at the same instant. There were other implications of this special status as well. Special status indicated that even President of India couldn’t enter land of Kashmir devoid of permission of its prime minister.

Dr. Mookerjee lodged strongest protest against this incongruous decision and stated with all might Ek desh mein do Vidhan, do Prdhan and Do Nishan nahi chalenge (A single country can’t have two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two national emblems). This slogan, in fact, questioned the basis of Indian Nationalism, guiding principle of gallant independence struggle against the British Empire, and invigorated the whole nation to burst into protest against the hideous decision. It is alleged that Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee through his vigorous struggle created a fright in the Indian governance and hence, it had no other way except to get rid of him before long.

Though his confidants cautioned him earlier, Dr. Mookerjee, a person of rare attributes, to carry on the desperate struggle, went to Kashmir in 1953. He, there, started a hunger strike to protest the edict nixing Indian citizens from taking root in a state in their own country, necessity to carry ID cards. To bring all these agitations to a close Dr. Mookerjee was arrested on 11th May while crossing border.

What happened to him is shrouded in mystery still. Even if no stone is left unturned to ascertain that he was kept as a prisoner of State and used to get all privileges thus, many pundits consider such governmental assertions as deception. Though the ID card rule was annulled on account of his sole efforts, Dr. Mookerjee, in reality, died as detenu on June 23, 1953 under strange state of affairs. The aftermath of his death is more painful.

Even if his sudden death made the whole of India suspicious of governments (both Central and State) and there were earnest requests from his mother, Jogmaya Devi to the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, to probe Dr. Mookerjee’s death , no enquiry commission was set up.

Here are excerpts from letter (dated 4 July, 1953) of Jogmaya Devi Mookerjee to Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru - 'His death is shrouded in mystery. Is it not most astounding and shocking that ever since his detention there, the first information that I, his mother, received from the government of Kashmir was that my son was 'no more', and that also at least two hours after the end? And in what a cruel, cryptic way the message was conveyed! '. A fearless son of free India has met his death while 'in detention without trial' under most tragic and mysterious circumstances. I, THE MOTHER OF THE GREAT DEPARTED SOUL, DEMAND THAT AN ABSOLUTELY IMPARTIAL AND OPEN ENQUIRY BY INDEPENDENT AND COMPETENT PERSONS BE HELD WITHOUT ANY DELAY. I know nothing can bring back to us the life that is no more. But I do want is that the people of India must judge for themselves, the real causes of this great tragedy enacted in a free country and the part that was played by your government'.

Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee remains is our heart for his eruditeness, astute leadership and above all divine self-sacrifice for nation.

Swami Nigamananda’s valorous struggle manifests warrior-saint spirit

There has always been an allegation that Hindu sannyasins (monks) remain apathetic to society on the whole but how abominable that is it has been proved by the valorous struggle of Swami Nigamananda Saraswati, succumbed to death recently owing to his long fast against illegal mining notorious for polluting the river Ganges.

Venerable Swami Nigamananda Saraswati, it has come to the knowledge, had been fasting for four months at a stretch to save river Ganga and finally died at around 2 pm on June 13, 2011 at Jolly Grant Himalayan Institute Hospital in Dehradun. The 34-year-old Swami had been fasting for 115 days in Haridwar.

The name of Swami Nigamananda Saraswati was not known to many people beyond his acquaintance till the other day but his single-handed protestation has awakened lots of people by now. He was a member of Matri Sadan and had initiated his lone struggle, to make the reluctant governance acknowledge the grievous reality and act fast accordingly, from February 19. However, his health started deteriorating from April 27, 2011 and all these compelled the authority to admit him at the district hospital. Thereafter, he went into coma (comatoseness) and had to be admitted to Jolly Grant Hospital in Dehradun on April 27, 2011 in a very critical condition.

What did inspire Swamiji to act such? Matri Sadan, known as his mentor too, and its views must be explained at this hour. Struggle of Matri Sadan, in a nutshell, to save Ganga from illegal mining is not new and has been going on for last 12 years. And this way of struggle was not anything new to Swami Nigmanand. Anecdotes confirm that he had also fasted from Jan 20, 2008 till April 1, 2008. There was a great success at that time. His vigorous campaign and protest made then government outlaw stone mining. But this unlawful saga started once again and with more vigor than the past.

It was then the turn of Swami Dayanand to do something; he fasted for 30 days in March 2009 to call illegal mining going in full swing then a halt. All these indicate sannyasins in Matri Sadan remain alert of the changing reality and are ready to struggle at any time.

Swamiji is no more but we have got carry on the movement. River Ganga is the cradle of Hindu civilisaiton and hence, her sanctity can’t be compromised.

Hindus must challenge Islamic brutality

An assortment of chronicles have been written on the national independence struggle in India, from 1875 (year of inception of Indian National Congress) to 1947 (marking national independence and also partition of undivided India), against the iniquitous British Empire. What do we get from here? History is confident that India was under the brutal British Raj and had there been no resistance or active struggles, anguishes would have continued.

However, the same notion remains silent of Islamic supremacists’ subjugation and insensate atrocities in India, especially on Hindus, and endeavors lots in making people believe that Hindu-Muslim bonhomie dominated pre-British era. Is this acceptable ever? The answer is simple; if this is considered true, we have to find out a new definition of the word “travesty” then.

Another grave issue, in this regard, must be introspected. Why did Hindus fail altogether to thwart this violent Jihad in India? Were not there competent generals and soldiers among Hindus? Indeed, there were and a great number of them, through exuberance, excellence and valor, have left a perennial impression on history. What has been troubling Hindus then? There is only one difference – theory and execution of violence for expansion is a legitimate or sole policy in Islam while it is an exception, or even aberration, among Hindus. War field is not a bed of roses but a stern field of actions. How can you fight a blood thirsty animal with lack or no conviction? And the same tradition has been going on for more than a millennium.

Has there not been any effort to get rid of this pessimism? Sadly, unlike the field of Dharma, known for innovation or evolution of newer policies frequently, Hindu polity has been remaining stagnant. It has failed to cope with the fast changing reality like Islamic order and has, therefore, suffered defeat outrageously.

Now let’s take note of saga of violence and ruthlessness in the Islamic environment. Mohammed Bin Kashem invaded India in 712 AD but even with small contingents he defeated Hindu ruler Dahir Sen of Sindh decisively. The civil society was also plundered and all these were done for the establishment of an Islamic hegemony in Indian subcontinent. Surja Devi & Parimal Devi, teenaged daughters of Dahir, were sent to Baghdad as bounty to Khalif (civil and religious leader of a Muslim state considered to be a representative of Allah on earth).

During invasion Arab warriors were not accompanied by their women and to avenge this irreparable loss, rape and other forms of tortures were used at random. This also proved to be a good way to teach infidels a lesson once and for all. And from this period India became acquainted with the saga of Islamic brutality. It is worthwhile to mention that Muslims consider non-Muslim properties are BAITUL MAL while women are MALE GANIMAT, indicating dutifully HALAL (legal) for consumption.

But Hindus did not learn anything from this. Hindu defenses, above all their standpoints, in the following ages do reflect the same. Among these Hindu philosophy of tolerance and compassionate behavior plays a substantial role. How can influences of Buddhism be ruled out? Saga of non-violence, emanating from both Hinduism and Buddhism, has inflicted the heaviest blow on Hindu psyche and thousands of such examples can be found these days too.

Nevertheless, Islamic terrorism has changed a lot and sword-wielding Muslim warriors have turned into gun-wielding ones, highly proficient in latest technological applications and munition. Hindus, on the contrary, are in the same position as they were centuries before. Islamic terrorism worldwide is not anything new but finest interpretation of the words expressed by Muhammad, Arab Prophet or written in al-Qur'an.

How can Hindus defeat this demonic force then? After all this is not any video game. They have to imbibe excellence (ruthlessness) of Muslims and overwhelm them in the coming years. There is the necessity of another upheaval among Hindus. Scriptures have got to be interpreted in a new manner; Dharma himsaa tathaiva cha or that righteous violence is also authorized by Hindu Dharma must also be accepted.

Escapism or admission of defeat without struggle leads to destruction only. Hindus, to save own lives and also Dharma, must challenge Islamic terrorism.

Hindu-Jews protest against defaming Lord Shiva in United States strongly

As mark of an ideal effort to strengthen religious bonds, Jews in United States are supporting a US-based Hindu group, distressed at the portrayal of the image of Lord Shiva in Nataraja form on leggings, harem-pants and miniskirts. The mischievous act was done by globally celebrated “Manish Arora” fashion label of India.

One of the main strugglers, against the said pernicious activity, has been Rabbi ElizaBeth W. Beyer, renowned Jewish leader in Nevada (United States of America). In her statement, the venerated Rabbi stated even if reflection of the sanctified may be an effort to compliment, the fashion house is clearly insensate in trying to market Hinduism’s respected deity along with sacrosanct notions. She also pleaded internationally renowned “Manish Arora” fashion label to steer clear of hurting billions Hindus through reworking the image with apposite consultants.

As per ElizaBeth W. Beyer, liberal Jews are known to favor gospels of freedom of expression, but this is the time that businesses must show liability and not use revered religious traditions and symbols gratuitously to better commercial interests altogether.

Speaking on this sudden development, prominent Hindu statesman in United States, Rajan Zed, stated in his release from western USA, it was highly worrying to perceive an image of Lord Shiva, greatly revered in Hinduism, on women's legwear. It is known to all that God Shiva is worshipped in temples or home shrines and not desecrated by wearing on the legs and other lower parts of the body for the commercial greed of a fashion house.

Rajan Zed is also the President of Universal Society of Hinduism and has asked Manish Arora to express regret, stop selling and recall legwear having Hindu Lord Shiva straight away in public. He has also stated that businesses have got to be more aware while dealing with faith related subjects and sanctified emblems of all religions.

It is to be noted that lots of hue and cry took place when a model portrayed an image of Goddess Lakshmi on her swimwear at a fashion event held in Sydney (Australia) recently.

Hindu Samhati salutes Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

Bande Mahapurushashashya Charanarabindam

Controversies are expected in any field of human life be it political or academic; but the continual castigation against a single individual or the mythos (propounded or procreated and nurtured by him) for decades by the indigenous governance authenticates its might only.

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (28 May 1883 - 26 Feb 1966), in spite of being a valiant freedom fighter, social reformer, author, historian, political leader and philosopher, has always been chastised by the Indian government and his notion of Hindutva has turned into a hapless victim of mischievousness and half truths only. An assortment of political commentators, philosophers, historians has penned of Hindutva. Sadly, Savarkar has been termed as scholar but an intransigent chauvinist by his detractors. Fellow travelers have venerated him and his lifelong struggle time and again, it is needles to say.

Savarkar’s birth anniversary on 28 May, therefore, brings forth an excellent opportunity to assess his contributions on the modern Indian scenario dispassionately. It must also be mentioned (at the same instant) five philosophical attributes of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar include Rationalism and Positivism, Utilitarianism, Pragmatism and Realism and last of all, Humanism and Universalism.

Certainly any such person must depict seeds of his brilliance in early days of own life and Savarkar was also no exception. He was instrumental in forming Mitra Mela, youth group in those days, known for promoting radical and nationalist views. Nevertheless, his admission in Fergusson College, Pune was a great juncture. Indian freedom struggle, then, was in its formative years and under the auspices of radicals. Speeches, austere lifestyles of leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai and Bipin Chandra Pal and their valiant struggles for national freedom made a great impact on his psyche. Partition of Bengal in 1905 and struggles against it, Swadeshi movement changed his life altogether.

In 1905, to further the cause of Swadeshi campaign, Abhinav Bharat was founded by Savarkar along with a band of his friends, followers and students. Even if he was expelled from the college, none could dampen his revolutionary zeal. Philosophy of Swaraj, advocated by Tilak, impressed him a great deal.

Gradually Savarkar realized that such notions must be spread among the Indian students studying abroad also and with this end in view he joined Gray’s Inn law college in London and got accommodation in India House. Free India Society was soon founded by Savarkar to help organize fellow Indian students with the aim of fighting for total independence through a revolution. He declared unequivocally “We must stop complaining about this British officer or that officer, this law or that law. There would be no end to that. Our movement must not be limited to being against any particular law, but it must be for acquiring the authority to make laws itself. In other words, we want absolute independence.”

Two major things happened during this time. His book “ The History of the War of Indian Independence" and wholehearted efforts to save Madan Lal Dhingra, arrested for assassinating Sir Curzon Wylie, British Member of Parliament, in 1909 in a public meeting, made him famous and source of blazing inspiration for the Indian youth, both in England and India.

In subsequent years, following the horrific experiences in Cellular Jail in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there was a shift in his way of thinking. He became more interested in Hindu culture, its political nationalism and evolution of Hindu political ethos through ages. All these led him publish “Essentials of Hindutva” in 1923 and dedicate himself to the cause of Hindus till his last breadth. Throughout his life he was criticized for his vehement support or espousing gospels of Hindus on the whole (termed by many as a bigoted notion leading to Hindu separatism only against Indian nationalism) but he remained nonchalant. On the word of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a Hindu happens to be a devoted resident of Bharatvarsha, venturing beyond a religious identity. His seminal slogans ‘Hinduize politics’ and ‘Militarize Hindudom’ has inspired Hindus a lot from time to time.

Savarkar felt a shock at the adoption of Lahore Resolution of Muslim League in 1940 demanding a separate Muslim state on the basis of Two-Nation theory and lost no time to term it as a vicious plan leading to racial extermination of Hindus ultimately. Had the Indian National Congress under Mahatma Gandhi comprehended the reality, fate of India would have surely been different. This has been explicitly described by Bhimarao Ramji Ambedkar in his internationally renowned book “Pakistan or The Partition of India”.

The book states – “Mr. Savarkar... insists that, although there are two nations in India, India shall not be divided into two parts, one for Muslims and the other for the Hindus; that the two nations shall dwell in one country and shall live under the mantle of one single constitution;... In the struggle for political power between the two nations the rule of the game which Mr. Savarkar prescribes is to be one man vote, be the man Hindu or Muslim. In his scheme a Muslim is to have no advantage which a Hindu does not have. Minority is to be no justification for privilege and majority is to be no ground for penalty. The State will guarantee the Muslims any defined measure of political power in the form of Muslim religion and Muslim culture. But the State will not guarantee secured seats in the Legislature or in the Administration and, if such guarantee is insisted upon by the Muslims, such guaranteed quota is not to exceed their proportion to the general population.”

But the Indian governance has always been the rowdiest listener to these words of wisdom and its vengeance got most discernible when Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was implicated (as part of a sinister design) in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. But due to lack of evidence he was bailed out ultimately.

Savarkar died on February 26, 1966 through renouncing food, medicine and water – something unbelievable for any Gandhian Congress leader till date. There had never been any dearth of malice against him but he fought like a valiant warrior with his strongest conviction in Hindutva.

Hindu Samhati salutes Vinayak Damodar Savarkar on his birthday.

Bengali Hindus are innate fighters

There is a common and quite famous (at the same instant) tittle-tattle across India that Bengali Hindus, for being a traditional non-martial race, remains vulnerable to Islamic aggression ever. Hence, there is nothing unusual that there would be genocides of community members from time to time unlike other Hindu communities in India. The issue, as it reflects, happens to be quite imperative and makes the entire Bengali Hindu community answer a few significant questions. If it is non-martial, passive and even pessimist these days, whether this is a new phenomenon. There is another issue too – whether the overwhelming Left presence in Bengali Hindu mindset has played a vital role in this regard.

There is always the need of a battleground to prove one’s worth. This is said responsively and also aggressively since the past of Bengali Hindus is resplendent with manliness and this certainly dates back mediaeval India, period when an assortment of Bengali Hindu royal chiefs offered stiff resistance to Islamic aggressions. The most famous of them include Raja Ganesh, Raja Pratapaditya and Maharani Bahavashankari.

This tradition was followed in the later ages too and the emergence of militant nationalism to oust iniquitous British Empire under aegis of generations of vibrant Bengali Hindus manifested the same zeal yet again. Nevertheless, despite great sacrifices the community remained at the receiving end forever and a day. The last phase of Indian independence struggle that came along with the proposal of partition of undivided Bengal was the greatest blow on the community and what happened on 16 th August, 1946 wounded its psyche forever.

The day was marked as “Direct Action Day” under the patronage of Muslim League and was meant for the racial extermination of Bengali Hindus once and for all. But reversely it turned out to be a disastrous defeat of Muslims; it became a war and Bengali Hindus with a fierce mindset participated in it en masse. Bengali Hindu prowess was revealed once again. Even if the “Direct Action Day” led to series of riots across India, including Noakhali, Bengali Hindus didn’t succumb to Islamic supremacists even for once.

Barishal genocide happened in then East Pakistan in 1950 and the pogrom there shook moral sense. But instead of mitigating the crime, there was an out and out retribution in the Indian state of West Bengal. This became most prominent with the hurried exodus of millions of Muslims from Indian Bengal. The mindset was same in 1964 and the following days.

Surely there has already been a stiff deterioration in attitude and the entire community has to be blamed. There has never been any dearth of religious persecutions on Hindus in Bangladesh (former East Pakistan) since 1947 but protests against these dastardly acts from this side of the border have always been feeble and poor-spirited. This inhuman silence has instigated Islamic persecutors only who consider Bengali Hindus are the easiest prey to them.

If Bengali Hindus want to exist, they have got to bring back masculinity, brightest jewel of the community once. It has already mastered “Shapadapi” or power of knowledge; now it has to surmount “Sharadapi” or knowledge of power.

Rashbehari Bose; rebel who never slept

What will be the first reaction of a youngster if he is ever asked of Rashbehari Bose? The answer will surely be negative and his next approach would be to steer clear of the questioner. But this would not have been, had the history of India been written in a free and fair way. Sadly, approach of the Indian governance has always been to despise the role of revolutionary activities in Indian freedom struggle and herald non-violent movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. What can be done then? It’s the duty of the present generation to bring the unsung heroes of independence struggle to limelight.

Rashbehari Bose (May 25, 1886–January 21, 1945), if truth be told, is one of the greatest revolutionary leaders who vowed to fight against the British Raj in India. He was one of the foremost organizers of Hindu-German conspiracy to overthrow British Raj and also of Indian National Army, later on. From his young days, Rashbehari was interested in radical activities to overthrow the iniquitous British Raj but he had to leave Bengal (for the time being) to shun the Alipore Bomb Case (1908).

In Dehradun he worked as Head Clerk in Forest Research Institute and being inspired by Jatindra Nath Banerjee a.k.a. Niralamba Swami, Jatindra Nath Mukherjee or Bagha Jatin and also Amarendra Chatterjee, got involved with the revolutionaries of Bengal. However, following the failed effort of to assassin Lord Hardinge, he went to hiding soon. Whatever happened, nothing could kill his zeal. Hindu–German Conspiracy, series of plans formulated between 1914 and 1917 to instigate a Pan-Indian rebellion against the British Raj during World War I, happened during this time and he got involved.

Even if this plan failed also, Rashbehari was soon recognized as the key person to the then British administration. It is to be noted that the conspirators included revolutionaries from India, Ghadar Party in United States, Indian Independence Committee in Germany. Basic idea of Jugantar Party was to make a rebellion among Indian soldiers in different cantonments and there was hope, since British Empire became highly engaged with World War I, it would not be able to quell the rebellion. But the conspiracy failed, majority of revolutionaries got arrested and also killed brutally. Nevertheless Rashbehari became successful to escape and arrive at Japan in 1915.

A rebel never sleeps and being the perfect example of this maxim, Rashbehari continued his efforts to help Indian independence movement from abroad. Owing to continual pressures of British Empire on Japanese government for his extradition, he married a Japanese lady, daughter of well-known Pan-Asian leaders, and turned into a legitimate citizen of Japan in 1923. During intervening years, he along with AM Nair was instrumental to fortify Indian independence struggle.

In 1942, Rashbehari Bose convened an international conference in Tokyo, capital and largest city of Japan, from March 28-30 that led to the formation of Indian Independence League. The conference also adopted a resolution that an army would be raised for national liberation of India. The second conference took place on June 22, 1942 in Bangkok, capital of Thailand. The conference was historical indeed as it decided to invite Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to join the League and become its president. Bear in mind that all these endeavors led to the formation of INA (Indian National Army) under the leadership of Netaji.

But his falling health could not let him perceive the glory and he died soon after, on January 21, 1945. He was honored by the Government of Japan with Order of the Rising Sun (2nd Grade).

Hindu Samhati pays homage to 19 May martyrs

We have got to initiate this text by accepting a depressing reality; crude truth at the same instant as well. Hindu Bengalis are scattered across the globe and the majority of them, if not more, look to West Bengal, dominated by Bengali Hindus, at times to draw inspiration. But in most cases they become dejected; West Bengal is morally reprehensible to lead them. Same mindset was portrayed during the Bengali language movement in the Barak valley of Assam in 1961. West Bengal has been maintaining a bizarre silence of this even if interest in paying tributes to cause and martyrs of 21 st February (International Mother Language Day) is increasing.

To be precise, the culmination of the Bengali language movement in the Barak valley of Assam has a few origins. The first partition of then Surma Valley (at the behest of British Empire) segregated people of this region from Bengal (mainstay of their ethnicity) and compelled them to merge with the State of Assam, at variance to them in every context. The partition of Indian subcontinent in 1947 proved to be more fatal; 4 among 5 subdivisions of Sylhet district went to Pakistan and Barak Valley was having Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi districts only. Influx of refugees from East Pakistan made dominating Assamese community more skeptical, leading to infamous Bongal Kheda Movement in 1960. The violence and arson that followed polarized the entire state. Barak Valley was simmering in anger for rising, cruel economic distress and forced cultural alienation.

Salt was added to the gaping wound when Assam Legislative Assembly introduced a bill (Official Language Act) in 1960 for making Assamese the sole official language of Assam except English. It is to be noted, then Chief Minister of Assam Bimala Prasad Chaliha played the predominant role in this regard. This entailed outright denial of the demand to render due respect to Bengali, second key language in Assam and major language in Barak Valley. Bengali Hindus were not in a mood to accept the insult and commenced a democratic language movement in opposition. Mounting strength of the movement created uproar both in state and central (New Delhi) administrations and the campaign attained its height in Silchar in 1961.

The movement was both peaceful and democratic and touched the soul of every person in Barrak Valley; women participation was indeed praiseworthy. On 19th May, struggling Cachar Zila Gana Sangram Parishad gave a call for bandh (general strike throughout the valley). This pointed out radical change in the movement’s approach. The movement that started form some mere protests turned into a full-blown revolutionary movement by then. Satyagrahis (non-violent activists and volunteers) were in the streets from morning to make the strike a success. Administration made efforts to stamp down the revolutionary zeal but failed.

A different scene was witnessed in Tarapur Railway Station where making use of fiery protests administration assigned security forces and they fired without prior warning. 11 agitators died within next few minutes and hundreds of others were injured thanks to assault of bayonets along with inhuman lathi charges. The martyrs include Kanailal Niyogi, Chandicharan Sutradhar, Hitesh Biswas, Satyendra Deb, Kumud Das, Sunil Dey Sarkar, Tarani Deb Nath, Sachindra Paul, Birendra Sutradhar, Sukomal Purakayastha and Kamala Bhattacharjya.

On account of intense pressure, following the massacre and rebellious situation, Government of Assam drew back Official Language Act. Bengali was given official status in the three districts of Barak Valley.

Now the question remains – whether there is any difference between movements of 19 th May and 21 st February. There can’t be but people must acknowledge both in similar manner.

Hindu-Jewish Solidarity Day performed with gaiety in United States

The first Hindu-Jewish Solidarity Day was observed on January 19, 2011 at Houston, largest city in Texas in the United States, under the aegis of “Hindus of Greater Houston”, noted Hindu organization and “Bridge Houston”, well-known Jewish organization, amidst grandness. The grand assembly took place at India House and was joined by sages of both religions, along with workers and representatives of temples and synagogues. The assembly was inaugurated by the chanting of a Sanskrit Mantra, Vaijyanti Vivek and the prefatorial address was given by Ira Bleiweiss, founder of “Bridge Houston.”

Speaking on the event, Ira Bleiweiss told with conviction that Jews have been living in India for the past 2000 years but they have never undergone any kind of religious persecution like other nations. For that reason Hindus and Jews living in the United States have got to work together. She also stated that they also adopted the plan to celebrate Diwali together in the coming November.

Swami Nikhilananda, inhabitant of Barsana Dham in the city of Austin, and Rabbi Steve Morgan gave speeches in Sanskrit and Hebrew languages respectively. A video comprising Jewish life and history in India was also shown on the occasion. Dharmendra Kumar, Vijay Pallod and Girish Naik of “Hindus of Greater Houston” played potent roles to make the assemblage a success.

Michael Duke, journalist of Jews Herald Voice newspaper, got influenced by the temperament of the program. He said that Hindu-Jew unity of last 2000 years must be forwarded to the posterity so that the unity can sustain for the next 2000 years.