Month: July 2024

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Amnesty slams Pakistan’s crackdown on Baloch protests

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Pant called for an immediate halt to the harsh crackdown on Baloch protests…reports Asian Lite News

Amid escalating tensions in Balochistan, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for South Asia, Babu Ram Pant, issued a scathing condemnation of Pakistani authorities’ response to the Baloch Raji Machi protests.

He expressed grave concern over reports of three deaths and the mass arrests of protest organisers, including Sammi Deen Baloch, Sabghatullah Shah, and Sabiha Baloch.

According to Pant, these incidents reflect a troubling trend of using violence and repression to stifle peaceful demonstrations by the Baloch community.

“Every time Baloch protests take place, their demands are met with violence by security forces and mass arrests. We saw it in December last year at the Baloch Long March. We see it now again with the Baloch Raji Machi protests in what is clearly a punitive attempt by the Pakistani authorities to deter, vilify and criminalise peaceful protesters,” Pant said.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Pant called for an immediate halt to the harsh crackdown on Baloch protests and demanded the unconditional release of all individuals detained.

“The reports of three deaths and the arrest of organisers, including Sammi Deen Baloch, Sabghatullah Shah and Dr. Sabiha Baloch, are extremely concerning and indicative of the continuing decline in civil and political rights in Pakistan. Amnesty International calls for an end to the brutal crackdown on the Baloch protests and the immediate and unconditional release of all those arrested for exercising their right to peaceful assembly” Pant added.

Additionally, Pant criticised the government’s imposition of roadblocks and shutdowns of internet and mobile networks in Balochistan, which he argued severely restricts movement and access to information.

He reminded Pakistan of its obligations under both its constitution and international human rights law to uphold freedoms of expression, access to information, movement, and peaceful assembly.

Amnesty’s reaction came after Pakistani security forces reportedly took severe actions against participants of a Baloch national gathering.

The recent crackdown has sparked significant backlash amid fears that these measures might exacerbate rather than alleviate the underlying problems.

The Baloch community remains subjected to serious human rights violations, notably enforced disappearances, where individuals are taken away by state or affiliated forces without legal avenues, causing immense distress to their families and often leading to severe torture.

Adding to the complexity, extrajudicial killings targeting activists and critics without proper legal procedures have created a climate of fear, suppressing dissent. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Hamas chief assassinated in Iran

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-Top News Arab News Asia News

Hamas chief assassinated in Iran

The head of Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), Ismail Haniyeh was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Iranian President-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian….reports Asian Lite News

Hamas Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an attack in Iran’s capital, Tehran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday, Press TV reported.

In a statement to Meher News Agency the IRGC said that Ismail Haniyeh and one of his bodyguards were killed after their residence was targeted in Tehran.

“With condolences to the heroic nation of Palestine and the Islamic nation and the combatants of the Resistance Front and the noble nation of Iran, this morning (Wednesday) the residence of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of the political office of the Islamic Resistance of Hamas, was hit in Tehran, and following this incident, he and one of his bodyguards were martyred,” the statement read.

Earlier on Tuesday, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei, held a meeting with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh. Khamenei took to social media platform X to share pictures of his meeting with Haniyeh. 

In a post on X, Khamenei’s office stated, “Imam Khamenei met with Mr. Ismail Haniyah, head of the political bureau of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas, and Mr. Ziyad al-Nakhalah, the Secretary General of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Movement.”

In its reply to the post, the Israel Defence Forces posted “Did someone ask for a photo-op of Iran and the leaders of their proxies? Iran’s Khamenei met with Hamas’ Ismail Haniyah and the Islamic Jihad’s Ziyad-al Nakhalah — two of the terrorist organizations who have been attempting to kill Israelis using weapons made and funded by Iran. We can only assume the topics of conversation included how to spend more Iranian money to kill Israelis while wishing Hezbollah’s Nasrallah could join them.” 

Ismail Haniyeh who is based in Qatar, was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Iranian President-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian, according to a Press TV report. 

Earlier in April, three sons of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh were killed in an air strike carried out by the Israeli Air Force on Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed. The three sons of the Hamas leader, who were confirmed dead by the Israeli forces, were identified as Amir Haniyeh, a cell commander in the Hamas military wind and Mohammad and Hazem Haniyeh.”

In a post on X, IDF on April 10 stated, “IAF aircraft struck Amir Haniyeh, a cell commander in the Hamas military wing, and Mohammad and Hazem Haniyeh, both Hamas military operatives, in central Gaza today. The IDF confirms that the 3 operatives are the sons of Ismail Haniyeh, the chairman of Hamas’ political bureau.”

Meanwhile, the Israel Defence forces also announced that they had eliminated Fuad Shukr “Sayyid Muhsan”, Hezbollah’s Most Senior Military Commander. According to the IDF, Shukr was Hezbollah commander Hassan Nasrallah’s Right-Hand Man and directed Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel. IDF said he was responsible for the killing of 12 children in Majdal Shams in northern Israel earlier, as well as the killing of numerous Israelis and foreign nationals over the years. The IDF said Shukr was also responsible for the majority of Hezbollah’s most advanced weaponry, including precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets and UAVs.

The commander “was responsible for the majority of Hezbollah’s most advanced weaponry, including precise-guided missiles, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, long-range rockets, and UAVs. He was responsible for force build-up, planning, and execution of terror attacks against the State of Israel,” IDF said.

A strong blast was heard in the Lebanese capital on Tuesday night, and video footage on social media showed mass destruction of a residential building, with rubble scattered in the street.

Lebanese media reported that at least another person was killed in the Israeli attack and 35 were injured.

ALSO READ: Hamas softens stance in truce talks

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Healthy Pasta Lunch Box Ideas for Kids

As a parent, you always want your child to have a tasty and nutritious meal at school. Pasta can be a great option for a lunch box. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and kids love it. Hence here are five healthy pasta recipes that are perfect for your child’s lunch box

Vegetable pasta salad

Vegetable pasta salad is both healthy and delicious. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Mix in colourful vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. Add some boiled corn and peas for extra taste. For the dressing, use a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This pasta salad is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins.

Spinach and cheese pasta

Spinach-and-cheese pasta is a favourite among kids. Use any type of pasta your child likes. Cook the pasta and mix it with fresh spinach leaves. Add a little cream and grated cheese. Let it cook until the cheese melts and blends well with the spinach. This dish is rich in iron and calcium, which are important for growing kids.

Chicken and broccoli pasta

For a protein-packed lunch, try chicken and broccoli pasta. Cook some pasta and set it aside. In a separate pan, cook small pieces of chicken breast until done. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for a few minutes. Mix in the pasta, a spoonful of tomato sauce, and some grated cheese. This meal is nutritious and filling, keeping your child energized throughout the day.

Pasta with tomato and basil

Tomato and basil pasta is simple yet flavourful. Use whole wheat pasta for more nutrients. Prepare a sauce with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil leaves. Cook the sauce until it thickens, then mix it with the pasta. Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top. This recipe is full of antioxidants and good for your child’s health.

Mango pasta salad

Mango pasta salad is a unique and refreshing dish. Cook pasta and let it cool. Add ripe mango cubes, boiled corn, and chopped mint leaves. For the dressing, mix a little yogurt with honey and lemon juice. This salad is sweet, tangy, and perfect for summer.

ALSO READ-Post-Workout Meals to Maximize Muscle Recovery

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-Top News Asia News China

Tibetan govt-in-exile slams China’s closure of educational institute

The Chinese government has recently closed a prominent vocational high school in a Tibetan region of Qinghai province, adding to a series of closures of Tibetan private schools in recent years…reports Asian Lite News

Amidst China’s clampdown on Tibetan-run private schools in the China’s Qinghai province, the research centre of the Central Tibetan Administration organised a discussion in Dharamshala recently to highlight the issues faced by the community.

The Tibet Policy Institute (TPI), organised a panel discussion titled “Forced Closure of Ragya Sherig Norling Educational Institute: Causes and Impacts,” moderated by its Deputy Director Zamlha Tempa Gyaltsen.

Key participants included Parliamentarian Pema Tso, Director Dawa Tsering from the Tibet Policy Institute, and Shede Dawa, a former student and researcher at Tibet Watch.

The Chinese government has recently closed a prominent vocational high school in a Tibetan region of Qinghai province, adding to a series of closures of Tibetan private schools in recent years.

During the discussion, Pema Tso highlighted the difficulties encountered by Ragya Sherig Norling, expressing her initial disbelief upon learning via mobile about its sudden closure on July 14. She emphasised the institute’s crucial role in Tibetan education, having graduated more than 2,200 students, and provided a historical context on its founder, Gen Jigme Gyaltsen.

Shede Dawa, drawing on personal experiences, emphasised Gen Jigme Gyaltsen’s commitment to preserving Tibetan language and culture, despite modest beginnings. He recounted his own transformation from disinterest to dedication under Gen Jigme’s guidance, underscoring the institute’s significance in nurturing Tibetan identity.

The panel also included parliamentarians, additional secretaries, and representatives from NGOs, all united in their condemnation of the closure and its adverse effects on Tibetan cultural and educational institutions.

According to reports, there’s a deliberate effort to elevate Mandarin Chinese over Tibetan in education and public discourse. Tibetan language instruction is increasingly restricted, with Mandarin becoming the primary language of instruction in many schools. Higher education institutions face limitations on teaching Tibetan, stifling opportunities for Tibetan language development.

The recent report by the International Campaign for Tibet highlighted significant challenges faced by Tibetans on Chinese social media platforms like Douyin, which are part of China’s strategy to diminish Tibetan language and culture in favour of promoting Mandarin.

Despite Chinese claims of supporting minority languages, including Tibetan, there has been no official response to Tibetan protests against these discriminatory practices. The report detailed how Tibetans encounter barriers such as blocked livestreams and restricted comments in Tibetan, severely limiting their online engagement.

Even Tibetan medical professionals struggle to communicate effectively in Tibetan due to platform-imposed language restrictions. These actions are portrayed as deliberate efforts to enhance Mandarin dominance while suppressing Tibetan cultural expression, contradicting official claims of respecting ethnic minority languages.

The International Campaign for Tibet has criticised the stringent censorship and monitoring of Tibetan-related content on platforms like Douyin, which it sees as part of a broader Chinese Communist Party agenda to control narratives and silence dissent. (ANI)

ALSO READ: US Senators push sanctions for China if Taiwan is invaded

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Food Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Post-Workout Meals to Maximize Muscle Recovery

For gym enthusiasts, the post-workout meal is almost as crucial as the workout itself. It’s the time to refuel, repair muscle tissue, and replenish energy stores. If you’re looking for tasty and effective ways to maximise your recovery, check out these five meal ideas to satisfy your hunger and boost your fitness results.

Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad

High in protein and complex carbs, this meal is perfect for muscle repair and sustained energy.

Greek Yoghurt and Fruit Smoothie

This smoothie is a quick, protein-rich option that also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Egg White and Veggie Frittata

Low in fat but high in protein, this frittata is perfect for muscle recovery and energy replenishment.

Chia Seed Pudding with Almonds and Berries

This pudding is rich in protein, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great recovery snack.

Tofu with Veggie Stir-Fry

Combining lean beef with colourful vegetables provides a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

ALSO READ-Organic vegetables are alive

Categories
-Top News China USA

US Senators push sanctions for China if Taiwan is invaded

Title : China launches military exercises around Taiwan Caption : EAST CHINA SEA, May 23, 2014 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese navy helicopter takes off from China's Ningbo missile destroyer, East China Sea during a drill on East China Sea, May 23, 2014. The Chinese and Russian navies staged exercises, including joint escort drill, joint aircraft identification exercise and air defense and maritime assault drills, on the East China Sea on Friday to simulate anti-piracy operations. (Photo: Xinhua/Zha Chunming/IANS)

The bill states that it would impose sanctions on China should it initiate “a military invasion of Taiwan.”…reports Asian Lite News

Two members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee have proposed a bipartisan bill that would impose a wide range of sanctions on China if it attacks Taiwan, reported Focus Taiwan.

The bill states that it would impose sanctions on China should it initiate “a military invasion of Taiwan.”

Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced the Sanctions Targeting Aggressors of Neighbouring Democracies with Taiwan Act of 2024, or STAND with Taiwan Act of 2024 for short, on July 25.

The proposed bill “would impose devastating, comprehensive economic, energy, financial, and other sanctions on China in the event that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) initiates military aggression against Taiwan,” according to a press release issued by Sullivan’s office on July 26.

The sanctions would include the targeting of “Chinese Communist Party members and Chinese financial institutions and industrial sectors, as well as prohibiting US financial institutions, including investment companies, from making any investments in a Chinese entity that benefits or is affiliated with the CCP,” the release said.

Further, the bill would also restrict the importation of China-produced goods into the United States, as reported by Focus Taiwan.

US-China flag

“In these increasingly dangerous times, it is critical that America show steady, unwavering bipartisan commitment and resolve in support of Taiwan’s democracy,” Sullivan said.

Tammy Duckworth said that it was important for the US as a global leader to show support for Taiwan, which is facing escalating threats from China.

“With this legislation, we’re sending a strong message to our partner [Taiwan] and our competitors that we are here for long haul — and we won’t tolerate the kind of unilateral aggression that would endanger a democratic friend and the health and stability of the global economy,” she stated.

According to the draft text of the bill, if passed into law, the STAND with Taiwan Act would “require the imposition of sanctions with respect to the People’s Republic of China if the People’s Liberation Army initiates a military invasion of Taiwan.”

The term “military invasion” is defined in the bill to include amphibious landings, airborne operations, aerial bombardments or blockades, missile attacks, naval bombardments or blockades, or an “attack on any territory controlled or administered by the Government of Taiwan, including offshore islands.”

The two senators were among the visiting US Congressional delegation to Taiwan in May, during which time they met with President Lai Ching-te (Lai Qing De ) at the Presidential Office in Taipei, Focus Taiwan reported.

However, Sullivan previously introduced the STAND with Taiwan Act in 2022.

The bill was later referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, but no further action was taken by Congress in relation to the proposed legislation.

Earlier on Tuesday, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) thanked the two American lawmakers for their continued support and for proposing the STAND with Taiwan Act of 2024.

MOFA spokesperson Jeff Liu said that MOFA will closely monitor the progress of the legislation and “continue to work closely with friends from all walks of life in the United States on the basis of the robust friendship between Taiwan and the US”. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Vietnam PM lands in India for 3-day state visit

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-Top News Arab News India News

India, Saudi Arabia hold high-level meeting on investments

The two sides reviewed the discussions held between the technical teams of the task force….reports Asian Lite News

The first meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia High Level Task Force on Investments was held on Tuesday, wherein the two nations affirmed their commitment to bolster cooperation in the areas of petroleum, renewable energy, telecom and innovation.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PK Mishra, and Saudi Energy Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in virtual mode, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a press release.

The two sides reviewed the discussions held between the technical teams of the task force.

Constructive discussions were held on various opportunities for bilateral investments in diverse areas in the public and private sectors, including refining and petrochemical plants, new and renewable energy, power, telecom, and innovation, among others.

The two sides had a detailed review of the measures aimed at promoting two-way investments in a mutually beneficial manner.

Principal Secretary to PM, PK Mishra, reiterated the firm intention of the Government of India to provide active support to Saudi investments of the order of USD 100 billion that were committed during the visit of the Crown Prince and PM of Saudi Arabia, the release stated.

The two sides agreed to regular consultations between technical teams on both sides to take forward the discussions and reach an agreement on specific investments. An empowered delegation led by Secretary Petroleum will visit Saudi Arabia for follow-up discussions on the mutually beneficial investment in the oil and gas sector. The Saudi side was also invited to set up an office of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (PIF) in India.

The Principal Secretary also invited the Saudi Energy Minister to India for the next round of the meeting of the High Level Task Force.

The High-Level Task Force is a special body to facilitate bilateral investments following the decision taken by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Crown Prince and Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud during the latter’s State Visit to India in September 2023, according to the PM Office.

It comprises senior officials from both sides, including CEO Niti Aayog, Secretaries for Economic Affairs, Commerce, MEA, DPIIT, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Power from India. (ANI)

ALSO READ: UP passes bill to award life term for unlawful conversions

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Tahiliani Reimagines Couture with ‘Otherworldly’ Showcase

Breaking away from the conventional view that couture equates to discomfort, Tahiliani’s collection emphasizes the fusion of technology and tradition to create garments that feel like a second skin…reports Asian Lite News

Indian fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani’s ‘Otherworldly’ collection took center stage on the seventh day of India Couture Week 2024, held at The Ashok, Delhi.

The showcase, celebrated for its blend of regal elegance and modern comfort, captivated the audience with its homage to India’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.

Tahiliani’s collection, which combines traditional techniques with contemporary innovation, was a standout highlight of the event.

“Imagine being enveloped in a cocoon–feeling safe, cared for, and in complete harmony with your body and transcending into a new phase of self-confidence and awareness. To me, that is the world I aspire to create through our couture. ‘Otherworldly’ is a journey into a realm where comfort and ethereal beauty coexist seamlessly,” Tahiliani explained.

Breaking away from the conventional view that couture equates to discomfort, Tahiliani’s collection emphasizes the fusion of technology and tradition to create garments that feel like a second skin.

“We’re committed to blending technology and tradition to create otherworldly, comfortable clothing that feels like a second skin. Beauty may be subjective, but comfort and fit are not,” he added.

The collection featured a variety of silhouettes designed to offer both elegance and ease, including flowing lehengas, intricately draped sarees, and structured bodices.

Traditional crafts like Kashidakar, Mukaish, and Chikankari were reimagined with a contemporary touch, incorporating Swarovski crystals, aari embroidery, and zardozi.

Unique design elements such as monochromatic Pichwai, carpets, and blooms enhanced the collection’s innovative approach, presenting a modern yet timeless sense of style.

Menswear pieces, including embroidered sherwanis, modern bandhgalas, and crisp kurtas, stood out with their sharp, tailored silhouettes and sophisticated color palette dominated by black.

The integration of traditional motifs with sheer fabrics and marble jaalis highlighted the collection’s balance between heritage and modernity.

The ethereal ensembles were complemented by jewelry from Hazoorilal by Sandeep Narang and Shree Jee Jaipur, footwear by Aquazzura, and makeup by MAC, with hairstyling by Aveda enhancing the overall look.

The soundtrack, curated by Jayant Arora, mixed soulful Indian voices with global influences, including tracks from ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ to Amy Winehouse, reflecting the multifaceted modern Indian identity.

In a historic move, Tahiliani’s show was presented twice on the same day.

This decision, a first in fashion history, was made to accommodate the overwhelming demand from the audience that could not all be seated for the initial presentation at The Ashok, Delhi.

India Couture Week 2024, which commenced on July 24, continues to be a celebration of fashion excellence. The event will conclude on July 31 with Falguni Shane Peacock’s grand finale presentation, capping off a week of remarkable fashion showcases. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Kashish Duggal Balances Comfort and Style in Fashion Choices

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-Top News India News World News

Vietnam PM lands in India for 3-day state visit

PM Pham Minh Chinh is on his visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi…reports Asian Lite News

Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, arrived in India for his three-day state visit on Tuesday.

He was welcomed by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, at the airport.

Taking to social media platform X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal said the visit of Vietnam PM will further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.

“Warm welcome to PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam as he arrives in New Delhi on a State Visit. Received by MoS @PmargheritaBJP at the airport. India & Vietnam share civilizational links and a longstanding friendship based on mutual trust. The visit will further strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he stated.

PM Pham Minh Chinh is on his visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is being accompanied by a high-level delegation, including several ministers, deputy ministers, and business leaders.

During his visit, Vietnamese PM Chinh will receive a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 1, after which he will visit Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

Moreover, he will also hold bilateral discussions with PM Modi, who will also host a luncheon in his honour.

Prime Minister Chinh is further scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is also expected to call on the visiting Prime Minister of Vietnam, the MEA stated.

Last week, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid their respects to the late General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Nguyen Phu Trong, in separate solemn ceremonies marking his state funeral.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval represented India at the state funeral held in Hanoi last Thursday.

Simultaneously, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Vietnam Embassy in India to express his condolences on behalf of the Indian government and people.

India and Vietnam have age-old historical and civilizational ties, which were elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership during the visit of PM Modi to Vietnam in September 2016.Furthermore, India considers Vietnam a key pillar of its Act East Policy and an important partner in its Indo-Pacific vision, MEA stated. (ANI)

ALSO READ: UP passes bill to award life term for unlawful conversions

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-Top News India News Uttar Pradesh

UP passes bill to award life term for unlawful conversions

UP BJP leader Mohsin Raza hit out at the Opposition parties for ‘smelling a conspiracy’ in the proposed law….reports Asian Lite News

The Yogi Adityanth-led government has passed the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Assembly, which proposes harsher punishment, leading up to life imprisonment in ‘love jihad’ cases. 

The proposed amendments have been welcomed by the BJP as a step in the right direction while the Samajwadi Party has termed it a ‘divisive’ move, aimed at creating ‘animosity’ in society.

UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya who reached the Assembly, this morning told reporters that the legislation should be welcomed as this would act as a ‘deterrent’ against such practices.

BJP leader Mohsin Raza said that the law, when amended, will help greatly in tackling illegal religious conversions as many ‘love jihad’ cases have emerged where impersonators marry a girl by hiding their identity and then force her to convert.

“If any impersonator plays with the life of your daughter, why shouldn’t the culprit be held accountable? If an imposter marries any girl by hiding his identity and with malicious intent, why can’t such people be brought to book,” asked the BJP leader.

Samajwadi Party, on the other hand, slammed the Yogi Adityanath government for brining amendments in the existing laws regarding ‘love jihad’ and said that it nothing but negative politics and motivated by the BJP’s ‘aversion’ towards a particular community.

SP leader Fakhrul Hasan Chand in a video message said, “UP has already a law on love jihad. If someone traps someone in his/her love trap with some motive, then there is a law for it but the BJP only wants to do negative politics. It does not want to do anything about unemployment and paper leak.”

UP BJP leader Mohsin Raza also hit out at the Opposition parties for ‘smelling a conspiracy’ in the proposed law.

“A strict regulation is required to put an end to such practises. The BJP believes in ‘sabka saath, sabka vikas.’ It’s unfortunate that the Opposition finds it communal and discriminatory. Their opposition to the ordinance is driven by their appeasement policy towards a certain religion,” Mohsin Raza pointed out.

As per the existing law, the punishment for such cases of an imposter marrying someone with a concealed identity ranges from one to ten years while religious conversions done only for marriage are held invalid.

When the ‘revised’ law comes into force, the guilty will be subjected to life imprisonment. The amendment is likely to be passed in the Assembly by voice vote on August 2, as per reports.

ALSO READ: Hamas Leader Haniyeh Assassinated