The South Asian Times
e x c e l l e n c e
Vol.12 No. 17 August 24-30, 2019 80 Cents
Trump tells Imran
to tone down
anti-India rhetoric
After PM Modi conveyed to President Trump that extreme
rhetoric and incitement to anti‑India violence by Pakistan leaders
was not conducive to peace, the latter called Pakistanʼs PM.
Washington/New Delhi:
President Donald Trump has
asked Pakistan Prime Minister
Imran Khan to "moderate rheto‑
ric" with India over Kashmir, as
he underlined the need of exer‑
cising "restraint" by both sides
and avoid escalat ion of the
"tough" situation in the region.
Trump on Monday spoke sepa‑
rate ly to Prime Minister
Narendra Modi and his Pakistani
counterpart Khan in his bid to
ease fresh Indo‑Pak tensions
after India revoked the special
status of Jammu and Kashmir.
Trump's suggestion to Khan
Chandrayaan‑2 moved into lunar
orbit, to land on moon on Sept 7
Chennai: Indiaʼs second moon mis‑
sion, Chandrayaan‑2, on Tuesday
successfully entered the lunar
orbit in a significant milestone.
The lander (Vikram), along with
a rover (Pragyan), is expected to
touch down on September 7 at
1.55 am.
Chandrayaan‑2's 384,000‑km
journey started on July 22 after
the GSLV MkIII‑M1 vehicle lifted
of f from Isro's spaceport at
OP ED 14 BOLLYWOOD 18
i n
Isolated diplomatically,
Pakistan to now try to
raise Kashmir issue at ICJ
President Trump to
meet PM Modi in France
at G7 this weekend
came as Prime Minister Modi
during his telephonic conversa‑
tion with the US president con‑
veyed that "extreme rhetoric and
incitement" to anti‑India violence
by certain leaders in the region
was not conducive to peace. After
Continued on page 4
Sriharikota, near Chennai. After 28
days, Isro successfully completed
the lunar orbit insertion (LOI)
BOOKS 26
j o u r n a l i s m
New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info
FIA's 39th India Day Parade boasted 47 marching groups,
34 floats and 44 booths. Celebrities included NBA boss Adam Silver.
Suniel Shetty pulls
tens of thousands to
I-Day parade in NYC
Bollywood superstar and Parade Grand Marshal Suniel Shetty, riding the FIA float,
got goose pimples seeing the enthusiasm and size of the milling crowds.
By SATimes Team Avenue last Sunday to celebrate cessfully for 39 years by the
Indiaʼs 73rd Independence Day Federation of Indian Associations –
New York: Tens of thousands of and enthusiastically witnessed the NY/NJ/CT. Bollywood stars are a
people g athered on Madison India Day Parade, organized suc‑ Continued on page 16
Republicans retreat on gun control
laws after Trump's reversal
maneuver, which took nearly 29 Washington: Senate Homeland Manchin (D‑W.Va.) and a national
minutes. Security Chairman Ron Johnson is "red flag" bill are both unlikely to
“For 30 minutes, our heart was cast ing major doubt on the pass. He was open to GOP Sen.
almost stopped,” said Isro prospects of significant gun regu‑ Lindsey Grahamʼs bill that would
Chairman K Sivan, adding that lations passing this fall, the latest establish a red flag grant program,
“tension has now only increased, sign that the ef fort to pass new but said the Senate would need to
not reduced”. Prime Minister firearm laws is starting to falter, “attach to those grants very strict
Narendra Modi, in a tweet, con‑ reports Politico. guide lines in terms of due
gratulated the Isro team over this The Wisconsin Republican said process.” “I really donʼt see the
“important step in the landmark that a background checks measure dynamic having really changed
journey to the moon”. A higher‑ based on the bill written by Sens. there much,” Johnson said of an
Continued on page 4 Pat Toomey (R‑Pa.) and Joe Continued on page 4
SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 30 excellence in journalism
TheSouthAsianTimes.info August 24-30, 2019
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
CM Reddy cites US partnership to add to AP’s growth
Washington, DC: The US‑India
Business Council (USIBC) and the
Atlant ic Council's South Asia
Center held an exclusive business
roundtable discussion in
Washington, D.C with YS Jagan
Mohan Reddy, Chief Minister of
Andhra Pradesh, on August 16.
This exclusive business round‑
table in collaborat ion w ith
Georgetown University focused on
opportunities to strengthen con‑
nectivity between United States
and Andhra Pradesh and laid the
foundation for investment and
trade opportunities between the
two. Ambassador of India to the
US Harsh V. Shringla set the con‑
text for the engaging discussions
and introduced the Chief Minister
and his vision to an audience com‑
prising leading business houses,
educational institutions and think
tanks.
Meera Gandhi and her Elected officials celebrate signing of
Foundation supported Religious Attire Bill by Gov. Cuomo
NYC Parade
Meera Gandhi hosted Rishi & Neetu Kapoor, Suniel and
Mana Shetty, Nikhil Gandhi and Navika Kumar at her house
on the eve of Indiaʼs Independence Day.
New York: T he Giving Back
Foundation, helmed by TV host and
author Meera Gandhi, was one of
the supporters of the 39th India
Day Parade in NYC this Sunday.
Meera also joined hands with the
Times Group of India to host an inti‑
mate dinner party last week at her
historic townhome in Manhattan,
which was attended by the paradeʼs
Grand Marshal Suniel Shetty. Guests
included actors Rishi Kapoor, his
wife Neetu Singh, Times Now
Managing Editor Navika Kumar and
chief editor Rahul Shivshankar and
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy speaking at the
business roundtable in Washington during his visit to the US.
Leading companies were upbeat
on Andhra Pradesh's promise of
rapid economic g rowth and
appreciated the Chief Minister's
Times Now DGM International
Marketing Ajay Kulkarni.
Ms Gandhi says, “Itʼs such an
honor to be a part of the India Day
Parade and we are proud to support
this demonstration of Indian pride
amongst the diaspora. The size of
the parade and the high profile of
the participants shows just how far
we have come as a community.”
Wearing a lehnga by Heritage
India Fashions, Meera joined
Shivshankar, Kulkarni along with
actress Hina Khan aboard the Times
Now float at the parade.
impressive mandate for unlocking
the expansive growth potential of
his state. With a strong mandate
from his people, CM Reddy will
Richmond Hill, NY: New York
Assemblyman David I. Weprin,
Senator John C. Liu, many other
Assembly and Council members,
District Leaders Dr. Neeta Jain &
Gurdip Singh Narula, Hersh Parekh
from Gov Cuomoʼs office, and com‑
munity members from across
Queens g athered at the Sikh
Cultural Society gurdwara here
over a week ago to celebrate the
signing of the historic Religious
Garb Bill by Governor Andrew M.
Cuomo, which prohibits employ‑
ment discrimination based on reli‑
gious attire, clothing, or facial hair.
T he new law takes e f fect on
October 9th, 2019.
The legislation adds language to
the Human Rights Law clarifying
that the wearing of any attire,
clothing, or facial hair in accor‑
dance with the requirements of
oneʼs religion is protected unless
an employer demonstrates inabili‑
ty to reasonably accommodate the
person's religious practice without
undue hardship on the conduct of
its business. It was first introduced
by Weprin in 2011 and has passed
the Assembly each year since
2013. The bill was sponsored by
Senator Liu in the Senate where it
finally passsed. The bill was initial‑
ly proposed in response to the
August 24-30, 2019
have an opportunity to usher in
an era of inclusive growth, rapid
development and strategic leader‑
ship for Andhra Pradesh.
Speaking at the business round‑
table, CM Reddy "complimented
the USIBC for working with the
Government of India to identify
the '5 big ideas' that will catalyze
the US‑India Economic
Partnership and welcomed the
USIBC to work w ith his
Government to also identify '5 big
ideas' to catalyze the US ‑ Andhra
Pradesh Economic Partnership".
"Andhra Pradesh is poised to
catalyze investments, capital and
partnerships owing to robust
infrastructure for connectivity,
enabling policies, integration with
g lobal value chains, shift ing
demog raphic dividend and a
ready work force," the Chie f
Minister added.
Assemblyman David I. Weprin & Senator John C. Liu stand
with Sikh Coalitionʼs Nikki Singh, District Leaders
Dr. Neeta Jain & Gurdip Singh Narula.
case of Kevin Harrington, a Sikh
subway operator for the MTA, who
was initially ordered to remove his
turban and wear an MTA uniform
hat and then a turban affixed with
an MTA logo. New Yorkers can
now rest assured that they will not
have to choose between their job
and religious obligations.
“Today we celebrate a great vic‑
tory against hate and discrimina‑
tion. Finally in a state as diverse as
ours, people of faith no longer
have to choose between their reli‑
g ion and their jobs,” said
Assemblyman Weprin.
“With this bill, New York has
sent a clear message to employers
3
He said that his Government
and USIBC can prepare a roadmap
to achieve investment and trade
targets especially in the areas of
agriculture and food security,
healthcare, education, infrastruc‑
ture and manufacturing.
The state under his dynamic
leadership will provide stability
and predictability, political will,
transparent policies, strategic
direction and governance, which
will attract investments and capi‑
tal to the state of Andhra Pradesh
Speaking to global investors,
Chief Minister Reddy laid his
emphasis on delivery of corrup‑
tion free governance, bringing
transparency in procurement and
contract management and provid‑
ing investor‑friendly experience
through one‑stop handholding of
investors across the implementa‑
tion lifecycle.
across the state about the value of
diversity in professional spaces,”
said Sikh Coalition Policy and
Advocacy Manager Nikki Singh.
"I congratulate Assemblyman
Weprin and Senator Liu for having
the bill successfully passed. My
own ideolog y is based on the
notion that everyone has the right
to express themselves freely with‑
out any sorts of discrimination,”
said District Leader Dr. Neeta Jain.
Said District Leader Gurdip Singh
Narula. “I was once a victim of a
hate crime and unfortunately this
happens to often. But this bill is a
start and we now have protections
in the workplace.”
 4 August 24-30, 2019 TURN PAGE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Trump tells Imran foreign minister Shah Mehmood

Trump is considering payroll to tone down

anti‑India rhetoric
Qureshi told ARY News TV.

Chandrayaan‑2 moved into

tax cut to boost economy
Washington: President Donald
Trump on Tuesday said he was
“thinking about” cutting pay‑
roll taxes, less than a day after
the White House denied that a
payroll tax cut was under con‑
sideration.
“Payroll tax is something we
think about, and a lot of people
would like to see that, and that
very much affects the workers
of our country,” Trump told
reporters at the White House.
Trump went on to say that he
has “been thinking about pay‑
roll taxes for a long time” ̶
and he cautioned that “whether
or not we do something now,
itʼs not being done because of
recession.”
His remarks were at odds
Letter to the Editor Chidambaram goes missing after
with a White House officialʼs
statement to CNBC on Monday
evening: “More tax cuts for the
American people are certainly
on the table, but cutting pay‑
roll taxes is not something
under consideration at this
time.”
The president has pushed
back strongly on reports that
investors fear an economic
recession may be on the hori‑
zon. In a tweet Monday, he
accused Democrats of “trying
to ʻwillʼ the Economy to be bad
for purposes of the 2020
Election.” He added, “We are
very far from a recession.”
But in his nearly exchange
with the press, ahead of a
meeting with Romanian
President Klaus Iohannis,
Trump floated a number of
possible ways to stimulate the
economy. He slammed the
Federal Reserve for raising
interest rates and called for a
full percentage‑point cut in
rates “over a period of time.”
He also discussed multiple
proposals to reduce taxes,
including a payroll tax cut and
indexing capital‑gains taxes to
inflation.
If Trump attempts to pass a
payroll tax cut through
Congress, heʼs almost certain
to face strong opposition from
Democrats. The 6.2% tax helps
to fund social welfare pro‑
grams that Democrats have
vowed to protect.
Continued from page 1
his 30‑minute conversation with
Modi, Trump held a telephonic con‑
versation with Khan, the second in
less than a week. Trump spoke with
Khan to discuss "the need to reduce
tensions and moderate rhetoric with
India over the situation in Jammu
and Kashmir," the White House said
in a readout of the call.
Continuing with his tirade against
India over the Kashmir issue, Khan
on Sunday had called the Indian gov‑
ernment "fascist" and "supremacist",
alleging that it poses a threat to
Pakistan as well as to the minorities
in India.
He also said the world must also
seriously consider the safety and
security of India's nuclear arsenal as
it impacts not just the region but the
world.
During the conversation with Khan,
Trump "reaffirmed the need to avoid
escalation of the situation, and urged
restraint" on both sides, the White
House said.
lunar orbit, to land on
moon on Sept 7
Continued from page 1
than‑expected approach velocity
would have bounced of f the space‑
craft into deep space, while a slow
approach would have led to the
moon's gravity to pull Chandrayaan‑
2 and crash it on the lunar surface.
The approach velocity had to be
just right and the altitude over the
moon rather precise. “Even a small
error would have led to complete
failure of the mission,” said Sivan.
Republicans retreat on gun
control laws after Trump's
reversal
Continued from page 1
ef fort to strengthen background
checks during gun sales, which gen‑
erally polls at around 90 percent.
“There are a lot of downsides to pass‑
ing more legislation that doesnʼt do
anything positive,” Johnson added.
President Trump has repeatedly

I court refuses anticipatory bail Trump on Tuesday said he would emphasized there are already strong
had the pleasure of meeting you at
be meeting PM Modi over the week‑ background checks on the books, an
Grego Ayur Massage the other day
New Delhi: With senior Congress leader and former Finance end at the G7 in France, and he apparent reversal from his drive to
in new Hyde Park. On a recent visit
Minister P. Chidambaram continuing to remain missing after would do his best to bring down ten‑ push his party on tightening back‑
there, I picked up a copy of The South
the Delhi High Court refused to grant him protection from sions in the subcontinent. ground checks.
Asian times and I wanted to tell you
arrest in the INX Media case, the CBI late on Tuesday night Meanwhile, Pakistan on Tuesday Senate Minority Leader Chuck
how much I enjoyed reading the
pasted a notice on his gate asking him to appear before the said it w ill approach the Schumer and Speaker Nancy Pelosi
entire newspaper. As the managing
investigation officer "within two hours". Earlier, a six‑member International Court of Justice (ICJ) assailed Trump for the turnabout,
editor you should be proud that an
team of CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on over the Kashmir issue. The decision with Schumer calling it “heartbreak‑
American born person finds your
Tuesday arrived at his Jor Bagh residence one after the other, comes days after a rare closed‑door ing.” T hey are pushing Senate
news paper so interesting.
but could not meet him as he was not at home. The notice consultations on Kashmir by the UN Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to
First of all, the layout of the newspa‑
pasted at Chidambaram house read, "Whereas it appears that Security Council which ended with‑ take up the House‑passed universal
per makes it very easy to read and fol‑
you are acquainted with the facts and circumstances of the out any outcome or statement from background checks bill, which lacks
low the articles. I also found it refresh‑
cases noted below which I am now investigating under chap‑ the powerful 15‑nation UN organ, GOP support in the Senate.
ing to see the South Asian interest
ter XII of the CrPc, you are hereby directed to attend before dealing a huge snub to Islamabad Meanwhile, Trumpʼs reversal keeps
groups and their perspective on the
me within two hours of the receipt for the purpose of the and its all‑weather ally China to solidifying, "A lot of the people that
American government. Not only that,
investigation of the case." internationalize the issue. put me where I am, are strong believ‑
you cover national news, economic
Chidambaram is likely to seek protection from arrest from An overwhelming majority in the ers in the Second Amendment, and I
and global news as well as lifestyle
the Supreme Court Wednesday morning. The CBI is investi‑ UN Security Council stressed am also. And we have to be very
and Sci‑Tech.
gating Chidambaram in the INX Media case, which it had reg‑ Kashmir is a bilateral matter between careful about that. You know, they
Thank you for publishing this terrif‑
istered on May 15, 2017 alleging irregularities in the FIPB New Delhi and Islamabad. call it the slippery slope. All of a sud‑
ic product and I will definitely look
clearance granted to the media group for receiving overseas “An in‑principle decision has been den everything gets taken away,"
forward to reading it on a regular
funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as Finance taken to take the issue of Kashmir to Trump told reporters. "We're not
basis. ‑Gail Douglas
Minister the International Court of Justice," going to let that happen."

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info
New Jersey speller wins 2019
South Asian Spelling Bee
Washington: An Indian‑American
teenager from New Jersey won the
2019 South Asian Spelling Bee, after
correctly spelling the word "flipe" to
earn the national title and $3,000
grand prize.
By correctly spelling the word that
means to strip off by or as if by peel‑
ing, Navneeth Murali bested
Hephzibah Sujoe, 13, of Fort Worth,
Texas; Pranav Nandakumar, 13, of
Austin, Texas; and Vayun Krishna,
12, of Sunnyvale, California, who all
tied for the runner‑up position.
The bee was open to children up to
American Airlines appoints Priya Aiyar as senior vice president
New York: American
Airlines Group
announced on Aug 5th
that they have hired
Indian‑American, Priya
Aiyar to serve as the
Senior Vice President
and General Counsel.
Aiyar, a former Obama
administration of ficial,
Priya Aiyar
succeeds Paul Jones,
who retired from American earlier tual property legal issues and work.
this year. Aiyar holds a Juris Doctor
from Yale Law School, a masterʼs to American Airlines,” said Steve
degree from the University of Johnson, Americanʼs Executive Vice
Oxford, and a bachelorʼs degree President of Corporate Af fairs.
from Harvard University.
Aiyarʼs role will be the lead of the an extraordinary intellect, and her
Palki Yatra held as part of Guru Poornima fete
New York: The Shirdi Sai Baba
temple, situated on Robinson
Street in the Flushing section of
Queens in New York City organ‑
ized Guru Poornima celebrations.
The event, highlight of which
was a Palki Yatra, ended on a
successful note. This was the
ninth time that the temple organ‑
ized Guru Poornima celebrations
since the house of worship was
formally inaugurated in 2010.
T he weeklong celebrations,
held last month, began on July
14. It culminated on July 20 ̶
the day the Palki Yatra (palan‑
quin procession) was conducted.
Among the features of the cele‑
brations were Dattatreya Moola
Mantra Havan, Sahasranaama
Archana, Satyanarayana Vrata
Katha, Hanuman Abhishe ka
Pooja, Swarna Pushparchana,
Guru Paduka Pooja, Sai Baba
Maha Abhisheka and Sri Lakshmi
Kubera Pooja. Nitya Annadaana
(distribut ion of free foo d
prasadam on a daily basis) was
held as usual during the celebra‑
tions.
Though the celebrations were
held throughout the week, the
actual Guru Poornima was
observed on July 15 this year.
This is the most important day
on the Sai Baba calendar. Vijaya
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
14 years of age and was held in five
regional centers across the US,
including New Jersey, Washington,
D.C., Dallas, the San Francisco Bay
Area, and Charlotte. Over 600
spellers from these centers partici‑
pated from which 15 finalists took
the stage at the finals.
Jaideep Janakiram, Head of North
America, Sony Entertainment
Television‑Asia, Navneeth Murali
(national champion), and Rahul
Walia, founder of the South
Asian Spelling Bee
Americanʼs Legal Af fairs
team and its legal strate‑
gies. This includes the
companyʼs corporate gov‑
ernance, securities, and
corporate finance, busi‑
ness and commercial, liti‑
gation, competition and
antitrust, compliance, pri‑
vacy, environmental,
employment, and intellec‑
“We are thrilled to welcome Priya
“Priya is an outstanding lawyer and
This year an interfaith group was also part of the procession
Dashami Day, or Dasara
(Dusshehra), is also considered
equally important as Sai Baba
left his human form on that day.
Last year (2018) marked the cen‑
tenary of Sai Baba leaving his
physical body.
A total of 1,100 devotees
attended the ce le brat ions
throughout the week with at
least 300 taking part in the
palanquin procession. Devotees
de fied the searing heat that
touched 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Those who carried the palanquin
wore traditional clothes and
walked barefoot.
The procession, which started
late than the specified time, was
strategic perspective, integrity,
energy, unique experience, passion
for the law, and demonstrated abili‑
ty to build and inspire teams make
her the perfect person to lead our
legal strategy and team over the
coming years. We remain focused
on evolving our culture and attract‑
ing the best and brightest to
American and, in both respects, we
could not have found a better per‑
son.” “We are enormously proud of
what Paul and our terrific legal
team have accomplished,” contin‑
ued Johnson. “Iʼm looking forward
to working with Priya to build on
that American work and take us to
the next level.”
cut short on the advice of local
police who had opined that the
severe heat could pose problems
to children and aged devotees.
Yet the fervor exhibited by all the
devotees was as usual.
The temple ensured that plenty
of water bottles were available.
Volunteers distributed snacks,
cool drinks, paper towels and
other useful items throughout
the two‑hour procession. No
untoward incident was reported
by the volunteers and temple
of ficials who walked along the
procession route.
A special feature in this yearʼs
Palki Yatra was the formation of
linguist ic g roups such as
August 24-30, 2019
ICCR president Dr. Vinay
Sahasrabuddhe on US visit
Washington, D.C: Dr. Vinay
Sahasrabuddhe, President,
Indian Council for Cultural
Relations, visited Atlanta and
Washington D.C. from August
8‑12. In Washington D.C., Dr.
Sahasrabuddhe delivered
remarks on the topic
"Prospects and challenges for
an emerging New India" at a
well‑attended event held on
August 12 at the prestigious
think‑tank, Hudson Institute.
During his address, he dwelt on
the vision of Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, following a
renewed mandate in the 2019
elections, for a New India char‑
acterized by 'politics of per‑
formance'; good governance
and development as drivers of
democracy and tools of social
integration; cooperative feder‑
alism; women empowerment
and welfare measures for the
disadvantaged sections of
society.
He also touched upon the
recent decision of the govern‑
ment of India to reorganize the
state of Jammu & Kashmir.
Separately, Dr. Vinay
Sahasrabuddhe attended a
round table interaction hosted
by Ambassador Harsh Vardhan
Devotees took part with religious fervor in the Palki Yatra
(Photo credit: A.L. Shunmugam)
Marathi, Te lugu, Kannada,
Malayalam, Tamil and Punjabi.
Each group wore its special eth‑
nic dress and walked as specific
segments in the procession.
Another important feature, as
was evident in the centenary cel‑
ebrations, was the appearance of
Sai Baba and his close associates.
Sai Baba, when he was in his
physical form, used to take part
in the Chavadi Utsav in which he
used to walk to Chavdi (a public
square in an Indian village at the
time) from his Dwarakamayi (a
dilapidated mosque that used to
be the base of the Shirdi saint).
Dwarakamayi is now known as
Samadhi Mandir in that temple
5
Dwells on PM
Modi's vision
for new India
Shringla in Washington D.C.
with members of the US admin‑
istration, Congress, academia
and think‑tanks.
Dr. Sahasrabuddhe's engage‑
ments in Atlanta included a
meeting with US Congressman
John Lewis and the unveiling of
a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at
the Consulate General of India,
Atlanta.
He also paid homage to the
statue of Mahatma Gandhi at
the Martin Luther King Jr.
National Historic Park. During
his meeting with Congressman
Lewis, Dr. Sahasrabuddhe
applauded the latter's efforts to
introduce the 'Lewis Bill' in the
US Congress which is an initia‑
tive to celebrate the legacies of
Mahatma Gandhi and Martin
Luther King. He also interacted
with prominent representatives
from the field of art and culture
in an event hosted by Swati
Kulkarni, Consul General of
India in Atlanta.
town, now situated in
Maharashtra. That Chavadi Utsav
was aesthetically re‑created by a
group of devotees, who drew
special appreciation by onlook‑
ers that included Americans at
large.
Also this year, an interfaith
group was part of the procession.
Programs, in which regional
subcultures were exhibited, were
held shortly before the tastefully
decorated palanquin was taken
out of the temple.
The temple, whose premises
were formally inaugurated more
than nine years ago, has been in
existence for nearly three
decades.
 6 August 24-30, 2019
Mayor de Blasio, Chancellor Carranza
announce easier, more transparent Curran announces book
school admissions process club for young readers
New York: Mayor Bill de Blasio and
Schools Chance llor Richard A.
Carranza announced on August
15th a shorter, easier, and more
transparent process for students
applying to enter middle and high
school for the 2020‑21 school year.
Now, there will only be one applica‑
tion round and deadline for families
to keep track of. All admissions
processes will have one round, from
3‑K to high school. Students will be
placed on a waitlist for each school
listed higher on their application
than the school to which they are
offered admission, informed of their
spot on the waitlist, and immediate‑
ly offered admission off these wait‑
lists as seats become available.
“Parents have enough on their
plate̶tangling with bureaucracy to
get their child into school shouldnʼt
add to the load,” said Mayor de
Blasio. “We are changing the middle
and high school application
processes so families donʼt have to
go through the gauntlet just to get a
placement. There will be one appli‑
cation round and one deadline to
make everyoneʼs lives easier.”
“Weʼve heard from families and
Stamford City
proclaims India
Day to commemorate
Indian independence
New York: Stamford Mayor David Martin
proclaimed August 17th as India Day to
commemorate Indian Independence
when Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal
Nehru raised the Indian flag at the Red
Fort on August 15, 1947. The city joined
hands w ith the Indian Diaspora in
Connecticut for a celebration organized
by the Connecticut Chapter of Global
Organization of People of Indian Origin
(GOP IO‑CT ) by hoist ing American,
Indian and Connecticut flags at the
Government Center in Stamford. In his
proclamation, Mayor Martin said that
the Indian Independence was marked
largely by non‑violent resistance and
civil disobedience and the Independence
day is celebrated by the Indian Diaspora
worldwide. The proclamation further
noted that Stamford city will honor the
Indian community which is an integral
part of the cityʼs diversity, success, and
great future. Mayor Martin was present
at the flag hoisting ceremony on August
17th. Indian Consul Vipul Mesariya rep‑
resented the government of India at the
ce le brat ion. Connect icut Attorney
General WilliamTong also graced the
occasion. Following the flag hoisting, an
India Festival with dances and music
including kite flying was held at the Mill
River Park from noon to 5 p.m. Indian
food, clothes and artifacts were sold at
variousbooths.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
County Executive
educators that they want a simpler,
more transparent, and more acces‑
sible system of school choice, and
today weʼre taking a step forward,”
said Schools Chancellor Richard A.
Carranza. “T his common‑sense
change will make a real difference
for families across the five bor‑
oughs, and improve our middle and
high school choice process for years
to come.”
The DOE is eliminating the sec‑
ond application rounds for middle
and high school. The main round
application process and timeline
will remain the same, with middle
and high school applications open‑
ing in October with a December
deadline. Students will receive their
of fer in March. Families can still
appeal for travel, safety, or medical
hardships; if families have any hard‑
ship, they will be able to access in‑
person support at Family Welcome
Centers, rather than wait to partici‑
pate in a second process.
By knowing their waitlist position,
families have a better understand‑
ing of their chances of getting into a
preferred school option in the event
that seats become available.
NYPD fires officer for
chokehold death of Eric Garner
New York: After five years of
investigations and protests,
New York City's police commis‑
sioner on Monday fired an offi‑
cer involved in the 2014 choke‑
hold death of an unarmed black
man whose dying cries of "I
can't breathe" fueled a national
debate over race and police use
of force.
Police Commissioner James
O'Neill's announced at a midday
news conference that he had
fired Of ficer Daniel Pantaleo,
who is white, based on a recent
recommendation of a depart‑
ment disciplinary judge. He said
it was clear that Pantaleo "can
no longer effectively serve as a
New York City police officer."
"None of us can take back our
decisions," O'Neill said, "espe‑
cially when they lead to the
death of another human being."
This is a shorter process that
requires less paperwork. Rather
than having to complete a second
application and wait weeks̶often
into May or June̶for a second
decision or offer, families will com‑
plete one process, receive one offer,
and receive any additional of fers
based on waitlist position.
Families will now have one admis‑
sions system at all grade levels,
with the changes to the middle and
high school process making it more
similar to the elementary school
admissions process.
T here will be a robust set of
resources available to schools and
families to ensure educators and
families have information about the
changes being implemented, and
the DOE will engage families once
school is back in session. Schools
will have resources to support fami‑
lies, and Family Welcome Center
staf f will be fully trained in these
new processes to help guide and
support families. The DOE will also
share information at middle and
high school fairs this fall, and
update the website and family‑fac‑
ing materials.
Daniel Pantaleo (left). Eric Garnerʼs cries of ʻI canʼt breatheʼ
fueled national outrage against police force (Image : nypost.com)
O'Neill has been deliberating
on whether to accept a discipli‑
nary judge's recommendation to
fire Officer Daniel Pantaleo for
using a banned chokehold on
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Mineola, NY: Nassau
County Executive Laura
Curran announced the
launch of her book club for
young readers, “Lauraʼs
Book Club.” The book club
will include monthly book
suggestions for young
adults and children.
County Executive Curran
will announce her book
pick of the month on her
Lauraʼs Book Club selection for
Facebook, Twitter and
August is Turtles All The Way Down
Instagram.
“My mission is for
Lauraʼs Book Club to encourage
young people to disconnect from
technology, step away from the
screens and enjoy a book,” said
Nassau County Executive Laura
Curran. “I also hope this pro‑
gram encourages residents to
visit their public libraries and
take advantage of the free servic‑ video rentals, workshops and
es they offer beyond book
rentals.”
County Executive Curran is
also participating in the 2019
Nassau County Library Tour. The New York. For more information
program encourages residents to on the Nassau County Library
visit as many of the 57 library
branches in Nassau County as
Eric Garner. The recordings led
to years of protests and calls by
black activists and liberal politi‑
cians for Pantaleo to lose his
job. City of ficials had long
by John Green.
possible in the months of July
and August. Each participant of
the library tool receives a map to
track their progress and can earn
prizes along the way.
Public libraries offer free mem‑
bership to residents which comes
with services such as book and
seminars, access to online
research databases and even dis‑
counted admission tickets to
museums and attractions across
Tour visit: https://tour.nassauli‑
brary.org/
insisted, though, they couldn't
take action until criminal inves‑
tigations were complete. A state
grand jury declined to indict
Pantaleo in 2014. Federal
authorities, however, kept a
civil rights investigation open
for five years before announc‑
ing last month they wouldn't
bring charges.
Pantaleo's lawyer has insisted
the of ficer used a reasonable
amount of force and didn't
mean to hurt Garner.
New York City's mayor has
declined to say whether he
believes Garner should lose his
job but has been promising "jus‑
tice" to the slain man's family.
Garner's death came at a time
of a growing public outcry over
police killings of unarmed black
men that sparked the national
Black Lives Matter movement.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL August 24-30, 2019 7

Veggie Fest 2019 draws 45000 people

Illinois: It was Sunday night, Veggie
Fest 2019 was closing, and no one
wanted to go home. The weather
cooperated. Parking went smoothly.
The food was over the top, and
everyone was saying this was the
best Veggie Fest ever.
T he two‑day festival opened
August 10 morning with words
from local dignitaries, among them
Mayors Chris Pecak and Phil Suess,
of Lisle and Wheaton respectively.
Dan Hebread, president of the
DuPage County Forest Preserve
welcomed Veggie Fest to its new
location, and event coordinator, Wisconsin with their three‑ and over the world to make Veggie Fest our body, mind, and emotions. He County Health Department, talked
Jonathan Kruger said: “There were five‑year olds, said they had never a success. Their enthusiasm is con‑ continued this theme on Sunday, about the power of plant‑based
tens of thousands of people spread seen so many activities offered for tagious, and their loving service speaking about meditation and giv‑ foods to create and sustain our
out all over this beautiful park, and kids at any other public event. They accounts for the peaceful atmos‑ ing detailed meditation instructions, health and wellbeing.
it never felt crowded. Iʼm still walk‑ added, “There was so much love in phere everyone comments on. after which the audience had a After listening to several speak‑
ing around saying, ʻWow!ʼ” that tent. It was amazing.” T he Veggie Fest boasted an chance to try it for themselves. ers, a young mother commented, “I
This is the first year for Veggie The huge international food court impressive roster of speakers. John Salley, four‑time NBA cham‑ never realized there was so much
Fest at Danada South Park, Navistar went full tilt all weekend. You can Kicking of f on Saturday was pion and former member of Chicago scientific research done on plant‑
Drive in Lisle, IL ‑‑ a new venue with check it out at www.veggiefestchica‑ Saraswati Sukumar, Ph.D., professor Bulls basketball team, spoke pas‑ based eating. There are going to be
much more room than any of the go.com/food‑court/, but to appreci‑ of oncology and pathology at the sionately about why he adopted a some changes in my house.”
previous locations. More room, as ate what it really was like, you had Johns Hopkins University School of plant‑based diet. Kenny Duggal, MD, Several favorites were back doing
we all know, means more of every‑ to be there. A couple of recent addi‑ Medicine, who talked about her ABPMR, assistant professor at Rush demos: Chicagoʼs premier raw food
thing. The 4000‑foot kidsʼ tent had tions included four styles of vegan research on preventing breast can‑ University Medical Center, attracted restauranteur, Karyn Calabrese;
been packed since opening, and lots omelets (without eggs) and the ris‑ cer using natural foods and herbs. a crowd with his talk: “Eat Green, cookbook author Elle Jaf fe; Marla
of little people were walking around ing star of the vegan burger scene, Noted spiritual leader Sant Get Lean.” Rose of Chicagoʼs Vegan Mania; and
with their faces painted. A separate the Beyond Burger. South Indian Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj, head of Both Neal Barnard, M.D., F.A.C.C., vegan gourmet chefs, Acooba Scott
area for toddlers and a special dosas were back, and if youʼve Science of Spirituality, chief sponsor George Washington University and Chef Ramses Bravo. Natureʼs
learn‑to‑meditate tent just for par‑ never had one, you missed out on of Veggie Fest, gave the keynotes School of Medicine and president of Path Organics, one of the biggest
ents and kids were also part of the something great. By the way, the both days on meditation for healthy the Physicians Committee for names in organic food and a Veggie
childrenʼs program this year. lines moved quickly. A thousand living. On Saturday, he said we need Responsible Medicine, and Terry Fest favorite, of fered cooking tips
One couple, who drove from volunteers come from countries all to heal our spirit if we are to heal Mason, M.D.,COO of the Cook and free samples.

Tulsi Gabbard takes two

weeks off from campaign
to join military duty
Washington, DC: First Hindu member of the US
Congress and Democratic Presidential aspirant Tulsi
Gabbard is taking two weeks off from the election
campaign. The elections are in 2020. And Gabbard
has announced that she will leave the campaign for 2
weeks of training in Indonesia that involves counter‑
terrorism too.
Gabbard said that she knows she isnʼt expected to
leave the campaign at the moment and she under‑
stands how amazed the people are. But she says she
loves her country and wants to serve the country in
every way including a soldier. So she wants to go to
the joint training mission in Indonesia. Gabbard said
she is, in fact, looking forward to joining her col‑
leagues in learning how to combat terrorism and dis‑
aster response.
This isnʼt the first time Gabbard is taking time off
for training. She was a part of active service in 2017
too. She also served in the Hawaii Army National
Guard in Iraq from 2004 to 2005. She served a second
deployment in Kuwait in 2008 and 2009. She worked
with the Kuwaiti Army.
Kashmiri Pandit diaspora meet in Houston
Houston: Celebrating the abrogation of
Article 370 that gave special status to
Jammu and Kashmir, the Global Kashmiri
Pandit Diaspora (GKPD) organized a meet‑
ing of the community members in Houston
with the head of BJP's Foreign Af fairs
Department, Vijay Chauthaiwale.
All the heads of Kashmiri Pandits' com‑
munity organizations from India and com‑
munity members from Australia, the UK,
Germany, Singapore, India and the US con‑
nected with the meeting via teleconference
on August 18.
Addressing the gathering, Chauthaiwale Vijay Chauthaiwale, head of BJP's Foreign Affairs department
(seated) took part in the celebration
said that he could feel the joy, positive
vibrations and excitement in the communi‑ Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) and his concrete steps are taken immediately," he
ty following the recent transformational team had shown," he said. Surinder Kaul, said. On behalf of the local community,
changes in India. international coordinator of GKPD, said: "It Veena Ambardar thanked Narendra Modi
"The abrogation of Article 370 was a his‑ was time to celebrate the power and diver‑ and his team. Ambardar said: "In addition
toric moment... It was the result of the sity of our great nation." He said the GKPD to paving the way for major infrastructural
strong ideological commitment, will to exe‑ focuses on challenging the separatist nar‑ developments in Kashmir, the move has
cute, emotional involvement, strategic rative at the United Nations. "The commu‑ also instilled a ray of hope in the Kashmiri
implementation and focussed techniques nity faces challenges in terms of cultural, Pandit community that they will be able to
to execute the strategy that our visionary religious and social extermination unless reclaim their homeland."
 8 August 24-30, 2019 NATIONAL COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

USCIS may court disaster with H‑1B Ro Khanna joins Pak

visa registration system: Forbes Congressional Caucus
Washington DC: Business and edu‑
cation groups warn that USCIS
may court disaster if the agency
implements a new electronic sys‑
tem for H‑1B petitions without
suf ficient testing and input from
employers, reports Forbes maga‑
zine. T he registration system,
based on a regulation finalized in
January, is expected to be used in
April 2020 for the FY 2021 H‑1B
cap season.
“We urge USCIS to engage in
extensive beta testing of the sys‑
tem, with maximum participation
and feedback from a wide range of
interested stakeholders, before the
system is required for use to
ensure a smooth transition to the
new electronic registration system
and minimize the risk of disrup‑
tions,” wrote 15 organizations in
an August 16, 2019, joint letter.
“Meaning ful considerat ion of
stakeholder recommendations and
engagement in system testing is
necessary to ensure that the regis‑
tration system works as intended.”
The organizations expressing
concern about the proposed H‑1B
registration system include the
American Immigration Lawyers
Association, the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce, the American Council
on Education, FWD.us and a vari‑
ety of technology trade associa‑
tions and other organizations,
such as the Compete America
Coalition, the BSA | The Software
Alliance and the Semiconductor
Industry Association.
An H‑1B petition (or visa) is gen‑
erally the only path to the
American Dream for international
students and those educated
abroad seeking jobs and careers in
the U.S. that require a bachelorʼs
degree or higher. For employers,
an H‑1B visa is often the only
practical way to hire a foreign
national to work long‑term in
America in technology, finance
and other fields.
The new regulation established a
new process for submitting H‑1B
petitions and conducting the H‑1B
visa lottery. Due to a large number
of H‑1B applications submitted in
excess of the 65,000‑annual limit
(and the 20,000 advance degree
exemption from the limit) for new
H‑1B petitions, the lottery has
been used for the past several
years to select which cases USCIS
will adjudicate.
In past years, starting April 1st –
6 months before the start of the
next fiscal year – employers have
sent to USCIS completed applica‑
tions, along with supporting mate‑
rials, to apply for H‑1B petitions.
T he regulat ion changes that
process substantially. Employers
will now send in completed appli‑
cations after a petitioner (the
employer) registers electronically
for a beneficiary (the potential H‑
1B employee) and after the agency
selects that beneficiary in the H‑
1B lottery.
“To be eligible to file a petition
for a beneficiary who may be
counted against the H‑1B regular
cap or the H‑1B advanced degree
exemption for a particular fiscal
year, registration must be proper‑
ly submitted,” according to the
regulation. “A petitioner may file
an H‑1B cap‑subject petition on
behalf of a registered beneficiary
only after the petitioner's registra‑
tion for that beneficiary has been
selected for that fiscal year. USCIS
will notify the petitioner of the
selection of the petitioner's regis‑
tered beneficiaries.”
The regulation also notes, “A
petitioner must electronically sub‑
mit a separate registration to file a
petition for each beneficiary it
seeks to register, and each benefi‑
ciary must be named. A petitioner
may only submit one registration
per beneficiary in any fiscal year.
If a petitioner submits more than
one registration per beneficiary in
the same fiscal year, all registra‑
tions filed by that petitioner relat‑
ing to that beneficiary for that fis‑
cal year w ill be considered
invalid.”
Washington, DC: Indian‑American
Congressman Ro Khanna has
joined the Congressional Pakistan
Caucus and said he would contin‑
ue to pursue the American objec‑
tives of a strong US‑India relation‑
ship, as well as peace and stability
in the region. The two‑term
Democratic Congressman repre‑
senting Silicon Valley is the first
Indian‑American lawmaker to join
the Congressional Pakistan
Caucus, which is co‑chaired by
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson
Lee (Democratic) and
Congressman Jim Banks
(Republican). Both Lee and
Khanna (42) are also members of
the Congressional Caucus on India
and Indian‑Americans, which is the
largest country‑specific caucus in
the House of Representatives.
Khanna, who in the last two years
has made a mark in the House of
Representatives on foreign policy
and national security issues, joined
the Pakistani Caucus after the visit
of Pakistani Prime Minister Imran
Khan to the US last month. "I am a
proud member of the US‑India
Caucus and have supported legis‑
lation condemning the terrorist
bombing in Kashmir and promot‑
ing stronger defense ties between
the US and India," Khanna told
PTI.
"At the same time, I believe it's
critical to engage all regional play‑
Ro Khanna
ers, including India and Pakistan,
to stabilize Afghanistan so that the
US can withdraw troops. I will con‑
tinue to pursue the American
objectives of a strong US‑India
relationship and peace and stabili‑
ty in the region," he said in
response to a question.
It was in May this year that Lee
and Banks announced the forma‑
tion of Congressional Pakistan
Caucus for the current Congress.
Lee is a founding member of the
Caucus.
Pakistani Ambassador to the US
Asad M Khan thanked Khanna for
joining the Pakistani Caucus.
"Had a wonderful meeting with
Congressman Ro Khanna. We dis‑
cussed the Prime Minister's (Imran
Khan) recent visit to the US and
ways to promote Pakistan‑US rela‑
tions. Congressman Khanna took a
keen interest in promoting peace
in South Asia. Thanked him for
joining the Pakistan Caucus," Khan
wrote on Twitter.

Multifaith Eid al Adha celebrated at Islamic Center of LI

By The SATimes Team

Westbury, NY: T he Interfaith

Institute (IFI) of Islamic Center of
Long Island celebrated their first
Interfaith Eid al Adah in a unique
way by hosting a Multi Ethnic
International Food Festival. The
communities which brought their
traditional food for the feast hailed
from India (including Kerala and
Gujarat), Pakistan and Kashmir, People from diverse faith communities enjoyed the
Multi Ethnic International Food Festival feast. A section of the attendees with organizers in the front row.
Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran,
Israel, Italy, and Puerto Rico. was explained as a celebration pilgrimage taken every year by 3 history of Makkah and Kaaba. Khan, founder of the Islamic Center,
Over 250 people from diverse about sacrifice and submission to million devout Muslims to Makkah. Another IFI trustee Sister Sahar welcomed the gathering and Dr.
faith communities came together on Godʼs will and command. This Eid Mohammed Sohail Nabi, an IFI Hussain detailed the Hajj Unni Mooppan, ICLI trustees, was
August 18 for the Eid al Adah, which follows the completion of the Hajj trustee, gave a presentation on the Pilgrimage. Dr. Faroque Ahmed the master of ceremonies.

Indian student gets a year in jail

for damaging college computers
Washington, DC: An Indian student
was sentenced to 12 months in prison,
to be followed by one year of super‑
vised release, for intentionally damag‑
ing computer equipment of a college
in New York.
Vishwanath Akuthota, 27, of Albany
was also ordered to pay $ 58,471 as
restitution charge, United States
Attorney Grant C Jaquith said on
Tuesday.
Pleading guilty, Akuthota admitted
that on February 14 he inserted a
"USB Killer" device into 66 computers,
as well as numerous computer moni‑
tors and computer‑enhanced podiums,
owned by the College of St Rose in
Albany.
The device, when inserted into a
computer's USB port, sends a com‑
mand causing the computer's on‑
board capacitors to rapidly charge and
then discharge repeatedly, thereby
overloading and physically destroying
the USB port and electrical system.
Akuthota is a citizen of India and
was residing in the United States on a
student visa. He has been in custody
since his arrest in North Carolina on
February 22. Vishwanath Akuthota
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL August 24-30, 2019 9

World Hindu Councilʼs

STARTALK Hindi Program pays
tributes to common men of India
The instructors of the STARTALK Hindi Program at the event
Franklin Township, NJ: Last week forty‑five
Middle and High school students, dressed
in colorful Indian attire, arrived at Franklin
High School auditorium to showcase their
Hindi skills learned at Sangam‑Franklin
STARTALK Hindi Program, a three‑week
intensive summer Hindi learning program,
and received certificates of completion.
“I am reminded of my own cultural origin
and heritage,” said Jigna Rao, Director,
Center for Continuing Studies, Division of
Life long Learning, Mercer County
Community College, who attended the event
as the chief guest and sat through the hour‑
long cultural performance by students. “It is
heartening to see young students speak
Hindi as they performed theatrical activities
on stage,” she said while distributing certifi‑
cates of completion to all students.
The federally funded program was organ‑
ized by Hindi Sangam Foundation, a New
Jersey‑based non‑profit institution in col‑
laboration with Franklin Township Board of
Education. “This is our fourth year conduct‑
ing STARTALK program at this venue,” said
Ashok Ojha, director of the program and
president of the foundation. “Our goal is to
introduce Hindi and the Indian culture at
an early stage for students who are born
and growing up on the USA. Most of our
students come from Indian‑American fami‑
lies. However, we have also reached out to
non‑Indian families for allowing their chil‑
dren to learn Hindi and Indian culture,” he
said.
“We are very proud to host this program
at Franklin High School,” said Principal
Frank Chmiel, who attended the event as
the Guest of Honor. “Sangam‑Franklin
STARTALK Hindi program has added diver‑
sity in our community. We feel that this
program should continue in the future,” he
said.
“We introduced varieties of interesting
stories from India under the theme of
ʻStorytellingʼ for our learners, most of them
Middle and High School students. These
stories connected learners with the accom‑
plishments of ordinary people of India,”
said Sanjyot Tatke, lead coordinator of the
program. “The characters in the stories,
such as Dashrath Manjhi, the Mountain
Man and Jadav Payeng, the Forest Man,
proved to be very inspiring for students,”
she said. “These stories presented local
issues, such as global warming and preser‑
vation of natural resources, in global con‑
texts. It made Hindi learning at our pro‑
gram very meaningful.”
Ojha said, “The curricula of our program
was developed with rich cultural content.
We integrated our daily learning plans with
varieties of cultural activities including folk
dances and skits that students enjoyed per‑
forming on stage. A day‑long field trip was
organized to take students on a guided trip
to nearby Colonial Park, where a park
authority named Surina Rashid briefed
them on the highlights of the park includ‑
ing its Rose Garden and the Fragrance‑
Perennial garden. After spending two hours
in the natural surroundings we headed to a
community center, Bharat Sevashram,
where two guest speakers Mamta Tripathi
and Sanjana Tatke spoke about their experi‑
ences. Sangam‑Franklin STARTALK Hindi
Prog ram was launched on July 22 at
Franklin High School in Somerset, NJ. It
ended on August 8th, the fifteenth day
when the students presented on stage their
Hindi skills.
3‑day conference
ʻThreads 2019ʼ
in Boston
Boston, MA: The World Hindu Council of
America has announced that it will hold a three‑
day conference here from November 1‑3, 2019.
The purpose of the event is two‑fold: exploring
and chronicling the contributions of Hindus to
America and, paying tribute to the largesse of
America and its warm embrace of Hindus.
WHCʼs conference ʻThreads 2019: Share,
Appreciate and Engage‑To Shape a Collective
Futureʼ will bring together a community that is
maturing and making its mark every day in
America. Speakers who are leaders, scholars
and leading lights in various aspects of life ‑ phi‑
lanthropy, science, arts, technology,media, busi‑
ness, medicine and academia – will narrate their
story so each thread can be picked up and
woven into a fabric that tells the larger tale of
the impact of Hindus on American society.
Conference Convener Dr.Jai Bansal said, “The
aim is also to look forward. We are bringing
together people in one place so they can meet
and engage in a way that ideas for a roadmap
for the community, on how to keep gainfully
contributing to America will emerge.”
Attendees will be treated to a wealth of details
which will inform, empower and nurture. The
conference will cover a broad range of topics:
Science and Technology, Arts and Literature,
Holistic Living, Education, Medicine, Industry
and Commerce, Public Service and Advocacy,
Service and Philanthropy. There will also be
lightning talks on unique ideas, projects and
poster presentations. The three‑day conference
welcomes people from all disciplines, denomina‑
tions, and cultures who seek a deeper under‑
standing of the Hindu‑American narrative.
Registration is open at www.threads2019.org.
The World Hindu Council of America is an inde‑
pendent, nonprofit and volunteer‑based charity
organization serving the needs of the Hindu
community in the US since 1970.

DIASPORA

Indians world over celebrate

Independence Day
Beijing/ Canberra: T housands of
Indians across the world on Thursday
proudly ce le brated India's 73rd
Independence Day with the tricolor
fluttering hig h and the nat ional
anthem reverberating at Indian mis‑
sions abroad.
Indians in China, Australia, and
many other countries marked the day
with hoisting of the national flag and
singing of patriotic songs.
In Beijing, people took part in the
Independence Day celebrations held
at the Indian Embassy.
India's Ambassador to China Vikram
Misri hoisted the tricolor at the India
House and read out President Ram
Nath Kovind's address to the nation.
A large number of Indians were
present on the occasion.
Addressing the members of the
Indian diaspora, Misri said this year
India and China are embarking on an
important phase of their bilateral
relations as in 2020 both the coun‑
tries are all set to celebrate the 70th
year of the establishment of diplomat‑
ic relations between them.
A number of hig h‑leve l visits,
including Chinese President Xi
Jinping's tour to India later this year,
between the two nations, are planned,
he said.
In Australia, a large number of
Indian expatriates attended the flag
hoist ing ceremonies he ld at the
Indian High Commission in Canberra
and consulate buildings in Melbourne,
Sydney, and Perth.
Extending his best wishes to the
Indian diaspora on the occasion,
Australian Prime Minister Scott
Morrison said the community was "a
rich and vibrant part of modern, mul‑
ticultural Australia."
"To all who hold this day dear, it is a
reminder of the promise of freedom
and the strength of hope. It recalls the
powerful test imony of peace ful
protest, the vision, and devotion of
the ''Great Soul'', Gandhi, and the
modern emergence of a proud and
free nation," he said in a statement.
"On that first Independence Day, in
August 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru called
for the people of India to take up their
''tryst with destiny'' and share the
great adventure of a new age. He
spoke of a new star of freedom rising,
new hope and a long‑cherished vision
coming into being," he added.
In Canberra, High Commissioner
AM Gondane unfurled the flag in
presence of a large crowd in a chilly
morning, while in Perth, a cultural
prog ram was org anized by the
''Sanskriti Seniors Group'' where the
diaspora sang patriotic songs.
Dantu Charandasi, the Consul
General in Perth, and Raj Kumar, the
Consul General in Me lbourne, The tricolor unfurled at the Indian Embassy
unfurled the tricolor. in Warsaw, Poland
 10 August 24-30, 2019 US AFFAIRS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Danish PM: Trump's idea of US tests new missile

buying Greenland is 'absurd' after withdrawing
Greenland: Greenland is not for
sale and President Donald Trump's from INF Treaty
idea of buy ing the semi‑
autonomous Danish territory in Washington: The US tested a lier this month”.
the Arctic from Denmark is "an new ground‑based cruise missile The collapse of the INF Treaty,
absurd discussion," Denmark's which can hit a target after more which was signed by the Soviet
prime minister has said. than 500 km of flights weeks Union and the United States in
Mette Frederiksen, who was vis‑ after withdrawing from the 1987, has triggered the fear that
iting the world's largest island to Intermediate‑Range Nuclear a new round of arms race is
meet Premier Kim Kielsen, told Forces (INF) Treaty banning such looming, many analysts say.
reporters: "Greenland is not systems, the Pentagon said on Last year, Washington said
Danish. Greenland is Greenlandic. I Monday in a statement. that it would withdraw from the
persistently hope that this is not The test took place at 2.30 pm Intermediate‑range Nuclear
something that is seriously meant." at San Nicolas Island, California, Forces Treaty (INF) while accus‑
Frederiksen said Sunday that the the Xinhua news agency report‑ ing Russia of failing to comply
Arctic, with resources that Russia ed. with it.
and others could exploit for com‑ President Trump called the idea of buying Greenland interesting, According to the statement, Within the next few weeks, the
mercial gain, "is becoming increas‑ but it's not a priority of his administration. “The missile exited its ground United States is expected to test
ingly important to the entire world mobile launcher and accurately a ground‑launched cruise mis‑
coastal regions. "Strategically it's interesting and impacted its target after more sile, and in November, the
community."
Even there, conditions are far we'd be interested, but we'll talk to than 500 km of flight”. Pentagon will aim to test an
Retreating ice could uncover
from ideal due to the long winter them a little bit. It's not No. 1 on “Data collected and lessons intermediate‑range ballistic mis‑
potential oil and mineral resources
with frozen ports, 24‑hour dark‑ the burner, I can tell you that," the learned from this test will inform sile. Both would be tests of con‑
in Greenland which, if successfully
ness and temperatures regularly president said. the Department of Defenseʼs ventional weapons – and not
tapped, could dramatically change
dropping below minus 30 degrees It wouldn't be the first time an development of future interme‑ nuclear.
the island's fortunes. However, no
Centigrade in the northern parts. American leader has tried to buy diate‑range capabilities,” it said. President Trump has said that
oil has yet been found in
Trump is expected to visit the world's largest island. In 1946, US Secretary of Defense Mark he would like to see a “next‑gen‑
Greenlandic waters, and 80 per‑
Denmark Sept. 2‑3 as part of a trip the U.S. proposed to pay Denmark Esper said, “The US will fully eration” arms control deal with
cent of the island is covered by an
to Europe. $100 million to buy Greenland develop ground‑launched con‑ Russia and China to cover all
ice sheet that is up to 3 kilometers
Trump said Sunday that he is after flirting with the idea of swap‑ ventional missiles after with‑ types of nuclear weapons, some‑
(1.9 miles) thick, which means
interested in the idea, but it's not a ping land in Alaska for strategic drawing from the INF Treaty ear‑ thing Beijing has so far rejected.
exploration is only possible in
priority of his administration. parts of the Arctic island.

Release of Iranian oil US urged to attach conditions

tanker unfortunate:
Pompeo
Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called
the release of an Iranian oil tanker "unfortunate", as the ship
which was detained by Gibraltar in July on suspicion of
transporting oil to Syria, was on its way to Greece after leav‑
ing port in the British territory.
"It's very unfortunate that that ship was released," Pompeo
told Fox News on Monday.
Data from ship‑tracking service MarineTraffic showed that
the oil tanker, which has changed its name from Grace 1 to
Adrian Darya‑1, set sail shortly before midnight on Sunday
towards international waters and was heading for the Greek
port of Kalamata. Gibraltar authorities freed the Adrian
Darya‑1 on August 15 after receiving assurances from Iran
that it would not discharge its cargo in Syria.
The next day, the US Justice Department filed a request to
detain the ship on the grounds that it had links to Iran''s
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which it has des‑
ignated a terrorist group.
But Gibraltar in a statement on Sunday said it could not
comply with the request because the IRGC was not viewed as
a terrorist organization by the EU, which the British territory
is currently part of, the BBC reported.
In his interview on Monday, Pompeo claimed that if Iran
was successful in making profits by selling the oil from the
tanker, Tehran's elite forces will "have more money, more
wealth, more resources to continue their terror campaign, to
continue their assassination campaign in Europe".
A US State Department official told the media on Monday
that Washington has expressed its "strong position" to Greek
authorities and all ports in the Mediterranean.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Monday warned against
any attempt by the US to seize the Iranian oil tanker.
to Israel economic aid
Washington: Democratic
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who
recently got barred from entering
Israel, has urged the US government to
set conditions on economic and mili‑
tary aid to the country until it guaran‑
tees the rights of the Palestinians.
"We give Israel more than $3 billion
in aid every year, based on it being an
important ally in the region and the
only democracy in the Middle East," Efe
news quoted Omar as saying at a news
conference on Monday in St Paul,
Minnesota. She was barred from enter‑
ing Israel along with her colleague
Rashida Tlaib last week. Muslim Congresswomen Rashida Tlaib (D‑MI) and Ilhan Omar (D‑MN)
"Denying a visit to duly elected mem‑ held a press conference to discuss travel restrictions to Palestine
bers of Congress is not consistent with and Israel on August 19. (Photo courtesy Reuters)
being an ally," she said. Omar and Tlaib, the latter who is of allow Tlaib to make a trip to visit her
"And denying millions of people free‑ Palestinian descent, US President grandmother, who lives in the occupied
dom of movement or expression or Donald Trump urged the Netanyahu West Bank, for humanitarian reasons,
self‑determination is not consistent government to do so in an unprece‑ though the lawmaker was barred from
with being a democracy." dented gesture. Both Tlaib and Omar, making any comments critical of Israel
Omar demanded that the govern‑ the nationʼs first two Muslim‑American or promoting BDS during the trip.
ment of Israe li Prime Minister women in Congress, support the non‑ But Tlaib rejected those terms.
Benjamin Netanyahu "stop the expan‑ violent Boycott, Divestment, and Tlaib and Omar, together with
sion of settlements on Palestinian land Sanctions (BDS) movement against Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez and Ayanna
and ensure full rights for Palestinians if Israel, which is highly controversial in Pressley, have formed a group of pro‑
we are to give them aid". She was refer‑ the US, prompting all kinds of attacks gressive freshmen members of
ring to the military aid package for from conservative and liberal pro‑ Congress known as "The Squad". In
Israel of $38 billion over 10 years, Israel activists and Zionist sympathiz‑ July, President Trump accused them of
which was approved by Congress in ers.Israel acceded to Trump's request hating the US and Israel and told them
2018 and is scheduled to run until and barred the two legislators from to return to the places they came from,
2028. entering the country. even though three of the four were
Israel blocked an of ficial visit by However, it later announced it would born on US soil.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Hillary slams Trump for sharing
'debunked study' that Google tilted
votes in her favor
Washington: Hillary Clinton
blasted President Trump for
tweeting about what she
described as a "debunked study"
that suggests "millions" of voters
in 2016 were manipulated in her
favor by Google.
The latest war of words
between the 2016 presidential
rivals kicked off when Trump
tweeted an unverified claim:
"Report Just Out! Google manipu‑
lated from the 2.6 million to 16
million votes for Hillary Clinton
in 2016 election! This was put
out by a Clinton supporter, not a
Trump Supporter! Google should
be sued. My victory was even big‑
ger than thought!"
Trump's tweet was seemingly
in reference to claims by Robert
Epstein, of the American Institute
for Behavioral Research and
Technology, that the tech giant
used what he described as the
“Search Engine Manipulation
Effect” to sway at least 2.6 mil‑
lion votes toward Clinton.
However, many have criticized
Epstein's allegation, made at a
Senate hearing in June, with The
Hillary Clinton blasted President Trump
Washington Post describing the
report as an incomplete picture.
"This is one claim from one
person that, as far as I can tell,
hasnʼt been peer‑reviewed or
replicated. On its surface, itʼs
dubious, as is the methodology
underlying it. Itʼs the sort of
thing that people in positions of
authority – such as, say, a senator
or a president – might be cau‑
tious about spreading," the news‑
paper's Philip Bump wrote on
Monday.
Clinton expressed similar
doubts.
US AFFAIRS
"The debunked study you're
referring to was based on 21
undecided voters," Clinton told
the president in a tweet. "For
context that's about half the
number of people associated
with your campaign who have
been indicted."
Judicial Watch, which was
tagged in the president's tweet,
told Fox News in a statement
they considered the shoutout to
be "encouragement that Judicial
Watch investigate this issue as
part of our Election Integrity
Project."
August 24-30, 2019 11
Barr sacks prisons director
after Epsteinʼs suicide
Washington DC: Attorney
General William Barr
rounding Epsteinʼs death,
will "get to the bottom of
announced the appoint‑ what happened." Barr also
ment of a new director for said “there will be
the Bureau of Prisons on accountability” for those
Monday, a week after who did not do their jobs
accused child sex traffick‑ properly. The Justice
er Jeffrey Epstein was Department announced
found dead in his federal last Tuesday that the war‑
prison cellin New York. den in charge of the New
Epstein, whoʼd been York City prison was reas‑
arrested and charged in Jeffrey Epstein, the signed to a regional office
already convicted sex
July and was being held pending the outcome of
offender and jet‑
in the Metropolitan the ongoing investiga‑
setting financier
Correctional Center while tions.
awaiting a trial scheduled to begin Many questions remain about why
sometime next summer, hanged him‑ Epstein was reportedly taken off sui‑
self in what New York City medical cide watch despite allegedly being
examiner Dr. Barbara Sampson said found nearly unconscious on his cell
was a suicide. Numerous glaring prob‑ floor with marks on his neck in July
lems at the prison were revealed in the and why such a high‑profile prisoner
wake of Epsteinʼs death. wasnʼt being closely monitored.
Barr said last week that he was Epstein, the already convicted sex
“appalled” to learn of Epsteinʼs appar‑ offender and jet‑setting financier, was
ent suicide and revealed the Justice alleged to have “sexually exploited and
Department was “learning of serious abused dozens of minor girls” at his
irregularities at this facility that are homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach,
deeply concerning and demand a thor‑ Florida, among other locations,
ough investigation.” between 2002 and 2005 and perhaps
He promised that Justice beyond. Prosecutors claimed Epstein
Department Inspector General Michael “enticed and recruited” minor girls to
Horowitz and the FBI, who are both “engage in sex acts with him” and built
investigating the circumstances sur‑ a “vast network of underage victims.”
 12 August 24-30, 2019 INDIA NEWS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Trump urges Modi, Imran to reduce tensions

Washington/New Delhi: US
President Donald Trump has
urged his "two good friends",
Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of
India and Pakistan's Imran Khan,
to work towards reducing ten‑
sions over Kashmir. He also
advised Pakistan to "moderate
rhetoric with India" over Kashmir.
In a tweet, Trump said though
Kashmir was a "tough situation",
he had "good conversations" with
both the leaders.
"Spoke to my two good friends,
Prime Minister Modi of India, and
Prime Minister Khan of Pakistan,
regarding trade, strategic partner‑
ships and, most importantly, for
India and Pakistan to work
towards reducing tensions in
Kashmir. A tough situation, but
good conversations," he tweeted.
Trump first called up Modi earli‑
er on Monday during which they
held a 30‑minute talk.
Modi conveyed that "extreme
rhetoric and incitement to anti‑
India violence by certain leaders
in the region was not conducive to
peace", in a re ference to the
Pakistani leadership spewing anti‑
India venom over the Kashmir
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with
US President Donald Trump. (File Photo: IANS/PIB)
issue. Prime Minister Khan has
been regularly taking to Twitter to
attack Modi, calling him a fascist
and racist. He has also alleged
that Modi was turning India into a
Hindu supremacist country, and
that Muslims in the country were
being disenfranchised and "RSS
goons were on the rampage".
During the call, the Indian
leader also highlighted the impor‑
tance of creating an environment
free from terror and violence and
eschewing cross‑border terrorism
without exception, the Indian
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
said in a statment.
Modi reiterated India's commit‑
ment to cooperate with anyone
who followed this path, in fighting
poverty, illiteracy and disease.
The conversation comes days
after the UN Security Council
backed India in its efforts to bring
in development in Kashmir after
revoking its special status.
Kashmir an internal matter:
US Defense Secretary
New Delhi: The US has now reaf‑
firmed its position that Kashmir
remains a bilateral issue. Today,
Union Defense Minister Rajnath
Singh held a telephonic conversa‑
tion with his US counterpart Mark
Esper. In an introductory call, the
two had a conversation on Article
370 and Jammu and Kashmir.
Rajnath Singh told the US Defense
Secretary that Kashmir is an inter‑
nal matter and a sovereign issue.
According to a White House
readout of the conversat ion,
Trump spoke with Modi to discuss
regional developments and the
US‑India strategic partnership.
The President also conveyed the
importance of reducing tensions
between India and Pakistan and
maintaining peace in the region.
T he two leaders further dis‑
cussed strengthening of US‑India
economic ties through increased
trade, and looked forward to
meeting again soon, the readout
Sources say that Mark Esper
agreed with India's stand and reit‑
erated Washington's position that
Kashmir is a bilateral issue.
Both sides also discussed deep‑
ening of defence ties under the
Major Defense Partner Framework
(MDP). The conversation came a
day after Prime Minister Narendra
Modi talked with US President
Donald Trump about regional
security.
added. Later, Trump called up
Khan. Pakistan Foreign Minister
Shah Mehmoo d Qureshi said
Trump made a call to Khan after
his talk with Modi on the prevail‑
ing situation in Kashmir.
T he US has reaf firmed that
there was no change in its
Kashmir policy, that it is a bilater‑
al issue between India and
Pakistan.
Modi also said that he appreciat‑
ed remaining in regular touch
with the US President.

Chidambaram faces Chhota Rajan gets 8 years jail

arrest, HC denies bail for attack on hotelier
New Delhi: W hile
denying anticipatory Mumbai: A special MCOCA court Rajan, who was deported from
bail to P. here on Tuesday sentenced mafia Indonesia in October 2015, is cur‑
Chidambaram, the don Rajendra Nikhalje alias Chhota rently incarcerated in Delhi's Tihar
De lhi High Court Rajan and five others to eight Jail. T he other accused are
observed the former years rigorous imprisonment after Talvinder Singh, Selvin Daniel,
Finance Minister was convicting them for attempting to Nityanand Nayak, Dilip Upadhyay
the "key conspirator" murder a city hotelier in 2012. and Rohit T hangappan Joseph
in the INX media case. Special Judge A. T. Wankhede, alias Satish Kalia.
"Facts of the case who earlier in the day found the The case dates back to October
prima facie reveal that six guilty on various counts of the 2012 when hotelier B.R. Shetty
the petitioner is the Maharashtra Control of Organised was attacked in Andheri.
kingpin, the key con‑ Crime Act and the Indian Penal T he Mumbai Police's Ant i‑
spirator in this case," Code including attempt to murder Extortion Cell, which investigated
it said. "The facts per‑ and criminal conspiracy, also the case, contended that Chhota
suade me to decline Congress leader P. Chidambaram. slapped a fine of Rs 5 lakh on each Rajan had ordered his sharpshoot‑ Mafia don Rajendra Nikhalje
pre‑arrest bail to the convict. er Kalia to kill Shetty. alias Chhota Rajan.
petitioner, while refraining to com‑ opposed Chidambaram's bail plea,
ment on merits of the case," said saying custodial interrogation of
Justice Sunil Gaur. the former finance minister was
"It is a classic case of money laun‑ necessary as he was evasive and
dering. The twin factors, which have had given false information during
Pak commando behind capture
weighed to deny pre‑arrest bail to questioning.
the petitioner are gravity of offence Chidambaram is on interim pro‑
and evasive replies of the petitioner tection from arrest by the Delhi
of Abhinandan killed
to questions put to him while he High Court. The ED and the CBI are New Delhi: A Pakistani commando facilitate more infiltrators into facilitate infiltration.
was under protective cover," the probing how his son Karti who was behind the capture of India. In photos re leased by Sources said that Khan used to
order said. Chidambaram managed clearance Commander Abhinandan Pakistan after Abhinandan's cap‑ mobilize well‑trained militants of
On January 25, the Delhi High from the Foreign Investment Varthaman when his IAF jet ture on February 27, the bearded Jaish‑e‑Mohammed (JeM) outfit at
Court had reserved its order on Promotion Board (FIPB) in 2007 crashed in Pakistani territory in Khan can be seen behind the IAF a forward post as part of
Chidambaram's bail plea in the case when his father was the Finance February this year, and had report‑ officer. Abhinandan was captured Pakistan's plan to keep terrorism
being probed by the Enforcement Minister. edly tortured the IAF pilot, has after his MiG 21 was shot down by alive in Kashmir.
Directorate (ED) and the Central Karti was arrested on February been killed in firing by Indian Pakistani forces when he went On August 17, India retaliated
Bureau of Investigation (CBI). 28, 2018 by the CBI for allegedly forces along the Line of Control. chasing after a Pakistani jet in the fiercely to Pakistan launching a
On March 11, the high court accepting money to facilitate the According to reports, Ahmed aftermath of the Balakot air strike. mortar fire attack on Indian forces
allowed the CBI to file additional FIPB clearance to INX Media. He Khan, a subedar with the Pakistan It is reported that Ahmed Khan in the Krishna Ghati sector in
documents on record to support its was later granted bail. His chartered Army's Special Service Group, was used to facilitate infiltration in the Poonch. Pakistan was firing mortar
case against Chidambaram in the accountant S. Bhaskararaman was killed by the Indian Army in Nowshera, Sundarbani and Pallan shells to allow infiltrators to enter
case. also arrested and released on bail Nakyal sector of the LoC on Wala sectors. He was specially India. Khan was killed in the
The investigating agencies had later. August 17 when he was trying to roped in by the Pakistani army to return fire by India.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Modi to visit France, UAE, Bahrain
New Delhi: India will seek to reinvig‑
orate its relations with three coun‑
tries that backed India openly over
the Kashmir issue ‑‑ France, UAE and
Bahrain, with Prime Minister
Narendra Modi visiting the three this
week.
France, which has backed India in
the UN Security Council over its
moves to bring in development into
Kashmir through changing its status,
is to be the first stop in the Prime
Minister's visit.
Modi also spoke with US President
Donald Trump over phone on
Monday, days after the UNSC backed
India during the closed‑door session
on Kashmir on Friday. T he US,
France and Russia were for India's
stand on Kashmir.
Modi will pay a two‑day of ficial
visit to France from August 22 dur‑
ing which he will hold talks with
French President Emmanuel Macron
with defence cooperation, nuclear
energy, maritime cooperation and
counter‑terrorism high on the agen‑
da.
India's purchase of 36 Rafale fight‑
er jets for around Rs 60,000 crore
has been concluded and the first of
the jets is to arrive in India this year.
From France, the Prime Minister
will proceed for bilateral visits to the
UAE and Bahrain, and will return to
the French city of Biarritz on August
25 for G7 Summit where India has
been invited as a partner country.
During his bilateral visit to France,
FIR sought against Shehla
Rashid for spreading fake news
New Delhi: Supreme Court advocate
Alakh Alok Srivastava, here on
Monday, wrote a letter to Delhi
Police Commissioner Amulya
Patnaik to immediately register an
FIR against Jawaharlal Nehru
University's Ph.D scholar and J&K‑
based politician Shehla Rashid for
"deliberately" spreading fake news
with the intention to incite violence
and malign the army's image.
Confirming receipt of the lawyer's
complaint, the police said it was
being studied before any action
against Rashid, who was JNU
Student's Union vice‑president in
2015‑16 and is associated with the
political party named the J&K
Peoples Movement.
The complaint against Rashid has
been forwarded to special cell of the
Delhi Police. No FIR had been filed
till now, Delhi Police sources said.
Of ficers in the special cell were
"examining" the complaint and a
decision on it would be taken soon,
they said.
In his letter, the advocate men‑
tioned some of the tweets posted by
Rashid on her Twitter handle
@Shehla_Rashid in which she had
claimed, "Armed forces are entering
PM Narendra Modi with Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering at
Simtokha Dzong Monastery in Bhutan. (Photo: IANS/PIB)
Modi will also meet French Prime
Minister Edouard Charles Philippe.
Modi and Macron are expected to
focus on strengthening of their
defence partnership, including
future defence acquisitions, progress
on setting up of the Jaitapur nuclear
power plant, and their priorities in
the Indo‑Pacific, Secretary, Economic
Relations, T.S. Tirumurti said.
Counter‑terror cooperation, cyber
security, the International Solar
Alliance, and joint development proj‑
ects are also on the table for discus‑
sion.
From France, Modi will visit the
UAE that has openly backed India
over its Kashmir move. He is to also
go on a state visit to Bahrain, where
the administration cracked down on
Pakistanis holding an anti‑India
demonstration last week over
Kashmir.
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Students' Union Vice President
Shehla Rashid addresses a press conference. (File Photo: IANS)
house at night, picking up boys, ran‑
sacking houses, deliberately spilling
rations on the floor, mixing oil with
rice, etc". Rashid claimed she got to
know about it from the people com‑
ing from Kashmir.
"In Shopian, 4 men were called
into the Army camp and "interrogat‑
ed" (tortured). A mic was kept close
to them so that the entire area could
hear them scream, and be terror‑
ized. This created an environment of
fear in the entire area," Rashid
tweeted.
Srivastava has said the allegations
INDIA NEWS
The UAE, which shares close bonds
with India, had on August 6 said that
the Indian government's decision to
abrogate Article 370 that gave spe‑
cial status to Jammu and Kashmir
was an internal matter of India
aimed at improving efficiency.
During his visit, Modi would meet
the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi,
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, to discuss bilateral, regional
and international matters of mutual
interest.
The Prime Minister would pay a
state visit to Bahrain from August
24‑25 in the first ever Prime
Ministerial visit to the Gulf monar‑
chy. Last week, the Bahrain govern‑
ment had cracked down on a protest
carried out by Pakistanis and some
Bangladeshis over the Indian govern‑
ment's decision to revoke Jammu
and Kashmir's special status.
by the "accused are absolutely false,
baseless and concocted, which is evi‑
dent from the fact that she has not
produced any voice recording of the
alleged torture or name, date, time
or any other specific information
about the aforesaid alleged inci‑
dent".
He also mentioned a statement of
the army that said: "Allegations lev‑
elled by Shehla Rashid are baseless
and rejected. Such unverified and
fake news are spread by inimical
elements and organisations to incite
unsuspecting population".
August 24-30, 2019
IMA slams 'mala
fide' Lancet article
on Kashmir
New Delhi: The Indian Medical
Association (IMA) has condemned
an editorial in The Lancet raising
concerns on the "health, safety
and freedom of the Kashmiri peo‑
ple" following the the govern‑
ment's measure to scrap Article
370, terming it "interference" in
India's internal affairs.
Terming the editorial "Fear and
Uncertainty around Kashmir's
future" a "breach of propriety" in
commenting on a political issue,
the IMA's President Santanu Sen
and Secretary General R.V.
Ashokan, in a letter to Lancet's
Editor‑in‑Chief Richard Horton on
Monday, questioned the "credibili‑
ty" and "malafide intention"
behind it.
They also said following this
"unsolicited intrusion" into Indian
Notice to Center on Shah
Faesal's detention
New Delhi: As former bureaucrat
Shah Faesal knocked at the door
of the Delhi High Court against his
recent detention at the airport, a
Division Bench of the court, head‑
ed by Justice Manmohan, issued
notice to the Center seeking its
response.
The court posted the matter for
hearing on September 9.
The petition, filed by Faesal's
friend, also sought the former
bureaucrat's release and contend‑
ed that he was "illegally picked
up" from the airport while on way
to Harvard University in the
United States. He was going there
to complete his fellowship.
"The circumstances of his illegal
custody from the Delhi airport
point to unlawful and illegal
detention, which ef fective ly
amounts to abduction," the plea
said.
After his illegal detention in the
intervening night of August 14‑
15, Faesal was "illegally whisked
away to Kashmir against his wish‑
es. No transit remand was sought
in Delhi before taking him to
Srinagar," it said.
The bureaucrat‑turned‑politi‑
cian, who has been highly critical
of the government moves on
Kashmir, was last week stopped
from leaving the country and sent
to Srinagar, an official said.
According to an immigration
official, Faesal was stopped at the
Indira Gandhi International
Airport and sent back to Srinagar
on another flight and detained
there.
13
affairs, the IMA, on behalf of the
country's medical fraternity, now
withdrew "the esteem" they had
for the medical journal.
T he editorial, terming the
Kashmir decision a "controversial
move", noted that it had fanned
tension with Pakistan and led to a
severe lockdown, which "raises
serious concerns for the health,
safety, and freedoms of the
Kashmiri people".
It also alleged "gross human
rights violations by state security
forces and armed groups", as
reported by UN High
Commissioner for Human Rights,
as well as "excessive force against
civilians" as in the "use of pellet‑
firing shotguns has led to 1253
people being blinded between
2016 and 2018".
Former bureaucrat
Shah Faesal.
Faesal, who quit the Indian
Administrative Service in January
to form the Jammu and Kashmir
Peoples' Movement (JKPM), has
been posting tweets and Facebook
content highly critical of abroga‑
tion of Article 370 that gave spe‑
cial status to J&K, and split the
state into two Union Territories.
On August 12, he had triggered
controversy with his tweet that
there would be "no Eid till the last
bit of insult is avenged and
undone" over what he termed as
the "illegal annexation" of
Kashmir.
Just before that he had tweeted:
"There is no Eid. Kashmiris across
the world are mourning the illegal
annexation of their land. There
shall be no Eid till everything that
has been stolen and snatched
since 1947 is returned back."
His comments have invited
strong criticism on social media.
 14 August 24-30, 2019
By Ashok Malik
ulminating in the “informal,
C closed‑door meeting” of the
United Nat ions Security
Council on August 16, the past two
weeks have been revealing. They
have made apparent three dif fer‑
ent strands to the diplomatic chal‑
lenge India faces following the
bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir
and the removal of Article 370. In
some senses, this is the biggest
such challenge created by a
domestic event since the Pokhran
II nuclear tests. Many of the lead
actors are the same. However,
Indiaʼs leverage in the internation‑
al system is much greater than in
1998.
The first challenge is the civil lib‑
erties debate. Seen dispassionately,
it represents a pressing dilemma
for demo crat ic governance –
between lockdown conditions that
ensure peace, and a relaxing of
such conditions that makes space
for incitement and violence. There
is no easy “sweet spot” or “right
moment”.
A graded easing of administra‑
tive arrangements in the Valley
has begun and schools and offices
are due to re‑open. With the
advent of the apple harvesting sea‑
son in a few wee ks, polit ical
activism is, in any case, likely to
decline. If the government can
maintain stability till then, it would
have passed a milestone. Summer
Kashmir: Will BBC once again lift veil of secrecy?
By Saeed Naqvi
I
t is just as well that the BBC has
decided to expand its shortwave
radio service in Kashmir to beat
the communications blackout. This
is not the first time the BBC has
played this role ‑ and for good rea‑
son. Because the supine, main‑
stream media in L.K. Advani's
words crawls when it is asked to
bend.
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi
had touched on the reasons for this
spine lessness in his very first
speech in Parliament in May, 2014.
Although he did not mention the
media, he traced the general obse‑
quiousness to 1,200 years of "ghu‑
lami" or subjugation. Moghuls can‑
not be blamed for warts on the
media's face because in their peri‑
od there was no media to speak of.
Yes, one great editor of a paper
called Urdu Akhbar, was tied to a
cannon by the British and blown to
smithereens for his critical writ‑
ings. The Editor, Molvi Mohammad
Baqar was the son of the greatest
stylist in Urdu literature,
Mohammad Hussain Azad.
The media, as we know it today,
was a gift of the British. The impe‑
rial DNA is indelibly embedded in
Kashmir fallout: 3 strands of Indiaʼs
diplomatic challenge
2020 is another story.
Predictably, the Narendra Modi
government has been condemned
by a familiar assortment of New
York/London‑based know‑alls,
fringe left activists, Pakistani state
agents masquerading as aggrieved
neutrals, and freelance self‑deter‑
minists representing nothing but
their bylines. Despite this, New
Delhi is determined to stick to its
timelines and not be rushed.
T he second strand relates to
Kashmir per se – the historical dis‑
pute between India and Pakistan.
As is obvious, Kashmir is now less
of a priority for the global system
than it once was. Pakistan desper‑
ately wants it to stay alive. Yet, for
most major powers, there is little
to gain by either wasting political
capital in pressuring India on the
Kashmir issue, or in promoting a
quasi‑independent, inevitably
Islamist territory at the intersec‑
tion of South and Central Asia.
That may have been a Cold War
fantasy; today it is a nightmare.
Apart from Pakistan, Kashmir is
being kept on the table by two self‑
appointed third umpires – China
and the United Kingdom. They
Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal with IGP
Kashmir Swayam Prakash Pani and Director Information and
Public Relations Syed Sehrish Asgar in Srinagar.
this media, both electronic and
print, which dominates the Indian
mindscape. Mark Twain had put his
finger on the nerve. "There are only
two forces that carry light to all
corners of the globe ‑ the sun in the
heavens and the Associated Press
down here."
It is this western "ghulami",
which tempers our nationalism. To
wear the badge of nationalism, the
formula is simple: heap hatred on
Pakistan and work assiduously to
have your progeny parked perma‑
nently in the US.
What the BBC is proposing now
The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
OP-ED
Apart from Pakistan, Kashmir is being kept on the table by two self‑
appointed third umpires – China and the United Kingdom.
were aligned at the Security
Council meeting and outmanoeu‑
vred only by the strident support
India received from France and the
United States, and some smaller
countries. On its part, Russia took
a careful middle path.
What explains the UKʼs conduct?
There are two factors. For a start,
the Pakistani‑origin communityʼs
role and influence in British elec‑
toral politics has made London
extremely vulnerable to extra‑ter‑
is to expand its short wave radio to
beat the blackout in what is now
"undisputedly" India. Here is yet
another irony. The BBC has always
had credibility in a state where a
balanced, fearless Indian media
would have gone miles to win
hearts and minds.
W hen the senior Mirwaiz
Mohammad Farooq, the present
Mirwaiz's father, was assassinated
in 1990, I accompanied BBC's
Satish Jacob, to cover the Mirwaiz's
funeral at the Idgah. Why did Mark
Tully the Bureau Chief himself not
cover the most important of sto‑
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
ritorial state manipulation.
The final strand relates to China.
It has been extraordinarily hostile,
even talking of “human rights vio‑
lations” for probably the first time
in diplomatic memory. This, while
Hong Kong is in turmoil and
Xinjiang is crowding its concentra‑
tion camps. China would want
Kashmir to continue to simmer as
this is an inexpensive mechanism
by which India is kept bogged
down by Pakistan. In reimagining
ries? After all, 72 men and women
were killed in the violence. Since
the BBC radio was the only credible
media which covered Kashmir,
Tully would be mobbed because he
was too well known. Satish, his
deputy, would turn up with his
fancy recorder but he would proj‑
ect himse lf as "German radio"
which the agitated Kashmiris had
no interest in.
I sought protection joining the
funeral as Satish's sidekick. My
appearances on Doordarshan were
on issues unrelated to Kashmir. But
the agitated processionists put two
and two together and, not only did
they identify me, they turned upon
me with unspeakable fury. They
had recognized me from my
Doordarshan appearances. I had
incurred their wrath because in a
BBC radio interview I had pointed
my finger of suspicion for the mur‑
der of Mirwaiz at various groups in
the valley but not on Indian agen‑
cies. "You are a sarkari chamcha"
they jeered at me.
The mob multiplied in geometri‑
cal progression. Soon I had thou‑
sands, arms raised, about to assault
me in unison. It was a frenzied,
lynch mob. Just then a short man
with light eyes, wearing a blue
the contours of the Kashmir issue,
testing international response, and
getting tacit endorsement from a
cross‑section of countries – includ‑
ing in the Arab world – China real‑
izes India has made a significant
advance. As an international cause,
Kashmir is becoming yesterdayʼs
news.
Even so, Chinaʼs principal con‑
cern is not Kashmir – it is Ladakh.
As a standalone Union Territory,
fully under Union government
administration, Ladakh will get the
attention it has long deserved. This
could have profound implications.
In the coming decade, if India
acts strategically in Ladakh and
builds appropriate capacities,
some of the Chinese investments
and assumptions (as described
above) could be at risk.
As shrewd realists, quite unlike
their intellectual auxiliaries in the
West, the Chinese understand
India is playing for the long term.
They are alarmed not by todayʼs
realities – but tomorrowʼs possibili‑
ties.
(The article appeared in the
Hindustan Times)
shirt and trouser, whipped out a
revolver. He shouted above the din.
"I shall finish him of f." Then he
waved his revolver at the howling,
screaming mob. "Move back."
He dragged me by the sleeves to
the exit. "Now you can go, and do
not be seen here." He was Feroz
from the Jammu and Kashmir
Liberation Front (JKLF). This was
the Front's signal that it was not
anti‑India.
The story now has taken a much
more blistering turn. The BBC's
credibility will grow astronomically
unless strings are pulled at its head
office in London with the following
message: "Look, you have turned
your face away from the
Palestinian story under pressure of
the Jewish lobby. Why can't you
turn your face away from this one?
BBC will have to ponder. The Arab
audience has been neutralized by
Israeli stratagem, Saudi money and
the western media. But is the BBC
prepared to forgo the steady, reli‑
able clientele in Pakistan?
The only balm on the wounded
Kashmiri psyche will be to shut up
the screaming jingoist anchors con‑
trolling the multiple channels.
Open the valley to a balanced, inde‑
pendent media.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
India Day celebrated at Nassau
County legislative chambers
Mineola, NY: The office of Nassau
County Executive Laura Curran
Nassau County Legislator Ellen W.
Birnbaum (D‑Great Neck), he
Nassau County Of fice of Asian
American Affairs, Indian‑American
community leaders and organiza‑
tions such as Indian American
Forum, IDPUSA and IALI celebrat‑
ed the 73rd anniversary of Indiaʼs
independence with a flag‑raising
ceremony in the Ceremonial
Chamber of the T heo dore
Roosevelt Executive and Legislative
Building on Aug 15. “I recognize
and honor your culture, and at
these trying times in our nation,
we really have to celebrate our
diversity and get to know one
another even better,” Legislator
Birnbaum said.
The program included remarks
by Indian American Forum
Chairperson Indu Jaiswal, IALI
President Lalit Aery, Asian
American Af fairs Director Farrah
Mozawalla. Geeta Setia, Dr. Rajpal
Chopra, Jyoti Gupta, and Anjali
Purohit sang patriot ic Indian
songs.
COMMUNITY August 24-30, 2019 15
Honorees included Jasbir Jay
Singh, President of IDPUSA that
organized the India Day parade in
Hicksville earlier this month, Dr
Tarun Wasil and Mohinder Kumar
Verma (of Kunal Jewe lers).
Attendees included Champak
Parikh, and Members of Indian
Veterans Association. Town of
North Hempstead Supervisor Judi
Bosworth, Nassau County
Comptroller Jack Schnirman and
Nassau Legislator Debra Mulé (D‑
Jasbir Jay Singh, President of IDPUSA that organized the India Day
Freeport) were among dignitaries
parade in Hicksville earlier this month, was recognized for his leadership.
who graced the ceremony
Legislator
Ellen W.
Birnbaum
led the
Indian flag
raising
ceremony.
Participants celebrating with an impromptu dance.
 16 August 24-30, 2019 NYC INDIA DAY PARADE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Suniel Shetty pulls

FIA holds 39th successful

tens of thousands to
I‑Day parade in NYC
Continued from page 1
constant factor in attracting the
thongs to what is called the largest
such I‑Day event outside India.
This year that role went to Suniel
Shetty, veteran of the Indian film
industry and an entrepreneur. ʻBad
India Day Parade in NYC
Manʼ Gulshan Grover, actresses
Hina Khan and Nargis Fakhri gave
added star power. International
celebrity this year was NBA com‑
missioner. Two NBA players –
Julius Randle and Dikembe
Mutombo ‑‑ were also there to
inspire the youths.
Marching in the parade were 47
marching groups including bands,
34 well‑decorated floats highlight‑
ing the diversity of the Indian
American community as well as
Indiaʼs g rowth story and 44
booths. The parade route down
Madison Avenue stretched from
38th to 24th street.
Ankur Vaidya, member of FIA
Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty
board, estimates the number of FIA President Alok Kumar. Grand Marshal Suniel Shetty, and FIAʼs Vice President Saurin Parikh
people at the parade at 100,000. NBA chief Adam Silver and Dr. Sudhir Parikh waiving to crowds. honoring TV and film actress Hina Khan.
Official figures of crowd size from
city authorities are still awaited, he
told The South Asian Times. In
keeping with the parade theme of
“Support Our Troops, Salute Our
Troops”, members of the Indian
and American armed forces were
present in 17 of the 34 floats, he
said.
FIA President Alok Kumar com‑
mended the diversity of the Indian
community displayed at the
parade, and said it was not FIAʼs
parade but belongs to everyone
who loves the Motherland and the
tiranga. He also reported that
Suniel Shetty had goosepimples
from the patriotic vibes all around.
The parade culminated in a per‑
Marchers with the FIA banner.
formance area, which saw 25
items performed during the 4‑hour said at the event that his goal is to previous years will be invited. The
cultural program. expand the partnership between parade festivities were telecast on
FIA held the post‑parade Gala FIA and the Consulate. Fox 5, Republic TV and Times
Banquet Reception on Monday At FIA Chairman Ramesh Patel has Now. FIA should be appreciated for
Royal Albertʼs Palace in Fords, NJ, announced that the landmark 40th organizing the annual parade, a
which was attended by some 650 parade next year will be celebrat‑ mammoth project by any standard,
people. Indiaʼs Consul General in ed in a grand manner and all the that takes almost a year to pre‑
New York Sandeep Chakravorty living grand marshals from the pare.

Alok Kumar, Hina Khan, Suniel Shetty and Gulshan Grover

watching the parade pass by.

A group from NYPD Desi Society marched in the parade. Women doing Lezim, a folk dance form of Maharashtra.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
The float of International Ahimsa Foundation, founded by Dr Neeta Jain to spread Mahatma Gandhiʼs
message of non‑violence and peace from Jain principles.
Global Kashmir Pandit
Diaspora group marching
with placards thanking
PM Modi for Article 370
abrogation.
FIA Chairman Ramesh
Patel and President
Alok Kumar presented
Suniel Shetty a plaque
in appreciation at the
post‑parade gala.
Grover praised for being a good
man off‑screen at book launch
Special to The South Asian
Times
New York: Last Saturday speakers at the
unveiling of “Bad Man” book on Bollywood
villain Gulshan Grover praised him for
being a very “good man” in real life
Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty
said he was impressed by the bookʼs con‑
tents. Referring to the India Day Parade, he
lauded FIA for choosing the motto of
“Support our Troops, Salute our Troops.”
FIA had organized the book launch and
the pre‑parade news conference with both
Grover and Grand Marshal Suniel Shetty.
The iconic Empire State Building dis‑
NYC INDIA DAY PARADE
played the Indian flag colors that evening.
“I was excited to see it turn into the
Tricolor of India,” Shetty said.
Actor Anupam Kher said at the book
launch, “We have had very talented villains
such as Amjad Khan, Prem Chopra, Pran
and Gulshan Grover. Not a spot on their
personal character.” Praising NRIs, he com‑
mented, “Indians outside India are better
than Indians in India.”
Actor Rishi Kapoor, who has been conva‑
lescing in New York from a bout of cancer,
unveiled Groverʼs autobiography, written
with Roshmila Bhattacharya, a veteran
journalist, that has a Foreword by film‑
maker Mahesh Bhatt.
August 24-30, 2019 17
The South Asian Times Chairman Kamlesh Mehta & Jay Jasbir Singh,
President of IDPUSA, presenting a Proclamation from New York State
Senator Kevin Thomas for FIA to Grand Marshal Suniel Shetty.
Air India's float at the parade.
This scintillating dance item was part of the
entertainment program. (Photos Paresh Gandhi/FIA)
Grover thanked all for appreciating the
book and urged NRIs to work hard and
have faith in God.
“Then the fragrance you spread about
India here in America will reach the coun‑
try,” he added.
Suniel Shetty, speaking separately to
journalists later, said he has helped set up
an online platform, ftctalent.com, to
encourage actors from anywhere in the
world to enter Bollywood.
“It is unbelievable that NBA chief Adam
Silver is gracing the parade,” he said,
adding that Indians should show interest in
sports other than cricket. "Be Indian and be
a proud Indian, and excel in every field.”
 18 August 24-30, 2019 ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Don't yell: Priyanka hits 'Mission Mangal': Ordinary film

back at angry Pakistani girl about an extraordinary feat
P
riyanka Chopra hit back at a
Pakistani girl who called her a "hyp‑
ocrite" for tweeting in favor of the
Indian Army despite being a United Nations
Goodwill Ambassador, and the girl, faced
with widespread social media flak, has sub‑
sequently come out to claim the actresses
was making her seem like the "bad guy".
At an incident in Los Angeles, Priyanka
told the girl: "I have many, many friends
from Pakistan and I am from India. War is
not something I'm really fond of but I am
patriotic, so I'm sorry if I hurt sentiments of
people who do love me and have loved me.
But I think that all of us have a, sort of, mid‑
dle ground that we all have to walk. Just like
you probably do as well. The way that you
came at me right now... girl, don't yell. We're
all here for love." The star cast of ʻMission Mangalʼ.
Priyanka's comment came as a retort to
the Pakistani girl's accusation that the
By Vinayak Chakravorty the first chance to get away to NASA.
Actress and UN Goodwill Spacecraft anatomy designer Neha Siddiqui

actress is a "hypocrite", who was "encourag‑
ing nuclear war against Pakistan."
The girl had questioned the Priyanka's
role as a United Nations Goodwill ambassa‑
dor over the actress's controversial tweet
congratulating the Indian Air Force for their
attack on Jaish‑e‑Mohammed terror camp at
Balakot in Pakistan earlier this year.
Soon, there was widespread criticism on
social media against the Pakistani girl. "That
Pakistani girl who jumped @priyankachopra
was very disrespectful!... i was supposed to
be the next one to ask a question but she
ruined it for all," tweeted a user present at
the do. Following such flak, the girl subse‑
'Most Handsome Man' title not
N
Ambassador Priyanka Chopra. otably, for a film that narrates a (Kirti Kulhari) is fighting social ostracism
national achievement, "Mission owing to her minority status. The naviga‑
quently came out on social media to reveal
Mangal" is lower on the jingoism tion expert Krittika Agarwal (Taapsee
her name as Ayesha Malik. She also shot out
quotient than many of Akshay's past odes Pannu) must tend to her armyman hus‑
several tweets blaming Priyanka for the fact
to the nation. Of course, there is a line by band. Varsha Pillai (Nithya Menen), the
that she was being projected as the "bad
our hero advocating why Make In India satellite designer, battles her mother‑in‑
guy" now.
matter in ISRO's scheme of things, but the law's taunts at home.
"Hi, I'm the girl that "yelled" at Priyanka
idea is kept to a minimum. Director Jagan Too much footage is allotted to each of
Chopra. It was hard listening to her say, "we
Shakti maintains pace through most of the these sub‑stories, which distracts from
should be neighbors and love each other" ‑
first half, as the story begins at a point what the film was essentially supposed to
swing that advice over to your PM. Both
where an ambitious ISRO project goes be a gripping drama of an overwhelming
India and Pakistan were in danger. And
kaput. Rakesh Dhawan (Akshay Kumar), a achievement. ISRO's Mars Orbiter Mission
instead she tweeted out in favor for nuclear
maverick genius scientist who was in (MOM) was accomplished in record time,
war," wrote the girl, on her official twitter
charge of the project, takes blame, using minimal funds and skeletal infra‑
account, @Spishaa.
although it was project director Tara structure. The gravity of such an achieve‑
Shinde (Vidya Balan) who was actually at ment never really comes across.
fault. Following the failure, Rakesh is To their credit, Jagan Shakti and his co‑
shunted to a project no one believes will
ever take off ‑‑ in a country that was still
writers have managed to keep the narrative
lucid despite the fact that they were deal‑

an achievement for Hrithik struggling at that point to send a rocket to

moon, Rakesh is asked to head India's mis‑
sion to Mars.
That build‑up portion of the script inter‑
twines personal lives of Tara and her team
Actor Hrithik
with the account of the mission itself. So,
Roshan was
Eka Gandhi, the propulsion control expert
last seen in
the movie (Sonakshi Sinha), starts off as a youngster
ʻSuper 30ʼ. who hates most things Indian and looks for
ing with a storyline that is heavily techni‑
cal. The cinematography and special effects
are functional, though a lot of the melodra‑
ma could have been edited. For Akshay
Kumar, this is a very different nationalist
hero. For a change, he is only a catalyst to
the epic achievement. Despite enjoying
maximum footage, Akshay is actually let‑
ting the female protagonists push the plot.

B‑Town has fond

memories of Vidya Sinha
B
ollywood celebrities took to social
media to express sorrow and shock at Vidya
the demise of actress Vidya Sinha on Sinha was
August 15. She was 71 and passed away after a major
respiratory failure. Sinha was known for her figure in
Bollywood

A
ctor Hrithik Roshan probably
scores 10 on 10 in the looks
department, and it seems like a
US‑based agency has also noticed it. The
"Kaabil" actor, popular as 'Greek God'
among his admirers, has been reportedly
named the 'Most Handsome Man in the
World' by the agency. He is thankful for
the title, though it's not really an achieve‑
ment for him.
The secret behind his good looks?
"Well, it's broccoli. Just kidding,"
Hrithik said in an interview.
roles in seventies middle‑of‑the‑road hits
"I'm thankful for this title although on in the
such as "Rajnigandha", Chhoti Si Baat", and
the face of it, it's not really an achieve‑ 1970s‑
"Pati Patni Aur Woh". Jaaved Jaaferi remem‑ 1980s.
ment.
bered Vidya Sinha as "an actress who was tal‑
According to me, if there's anything
ented, beautiful and dignified, and who we all
one should aspire for and value the most
loved in the 70's", adding that she "passes on from others". Rituparna also added that
in this world, it's their character.
to her next journey" Vidya "exuded unusual grace" and that she
"A good character will always make
"RIP Vidya Sinha Ji. You were the epitome considered herself "privileged to work with
you look more attractive," he said in an
of grace and dignity on and off the screen," her as a daughter in ʻTere Ane Se'," which is
interview with hindustantimes.com.
wrote filmmaker Sanjay Gupta. yet to be released. Bengali superstar
On the work front, he is looking for‑
Actress Rituparna Sengupta was "deeply Prosenjit wteeted his favorite picks among
ward to the release of "War", which will
saddened by the demise of our beloved Vidya Sinha's films. "You will be always
bring him and his fan and actor Tiger
actress Vidya Sinha", adding that her "sweet‑ remembered specially for ʻRajnigandha',
Shroff on the big screen together.
est voice and unusual beauty made her apart ʻChhoti Si Baat', ʻMukti'," he wrote on Twitter.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD August 24-30, 2019 19

Meet Hollywood's master of blood, gore, kills & chills

A
lexandre Aja's love for horror made
him dive deep into the genre and
create hits like "The Hills Have
Eyes", "Piranha 3D" and "Mirrors". The film‑
maker says he initially thought that he
would get over the genre, but is glad that
his obsession with the genre is intact.
The director says he just wants to keep
growing, and spread chills and thrills.
"I have been watching horror movies
since I was a young kid. I loved them and I
thought that at some point by making
them, I will, kind of, get used to them and
not be in it anymore, but I am still into it,"
Aja told IANS in an exclusive sit‑down inter‑
view.
Aja feels it is a great time for horror as a
genre. "Today, there are so many opportuni‑
ties. These movies are so successful in the‑
atres and I think it is very important to see
them on big screen. It is very important to
feel on the big screen," he pointed out.
Aja's cinema is known for blood, gore,
wince‑worthy kills and for building sus‑
ing to save her father from an alligator‑
infested house amid a hurricane.
Director
"Crawl" chronicles the struggle of a swim‑
Alexandre
mer Haley Keller (played by Kaya
Aja says he
wants to Scodelario) as she tries to save herself and
spread chills her father (Barry Pepper) from alligators
and thrills. amidst a Florida hurricane. The horror
thriller will open in India on August 23. The
movie will be distributed in India by
Viacom18 Motion Pictures. It is written by
Michael Rasmussen and Shawn Rasmussen,
and produced by Craig Flores, Sam Raimi
and Aja. The story is simple, and that is
what drew Aja in.
"I wanted people to have a wide, scary
and intense suspense film experience. I
remember when I got the script for the first
time, what got me in and made me fall in
love with the story was the log line. The
simple idea of this young woman who has
pense with music. He got his break in 2003 Eyes", "Mirrors", "Piranha 3D" and "Horns". to go and save her dad during hurricane
with "Haute Tension" ("High Tension") ‑‑ He will be back with a disaster horror category five in Florida in a place infested
which turned out to be his ticket to movie "Crawl". Aja has returned to water to with alligators ‑‑That was all I needed," he
Hollywood, where he made "The Hills Have narrate a suspenseful tale of a daughter try‑ said.

WHAT NEXT? I fly to other countries just to catch

films: Anurag Kashyap
Filmmaker's dilemma F
ilmmaker Anurag Kashyap
says he has done stupid things
for movies, and likes to fly all
around the world just to catch a
By Vinod Mirani show of his favorite project.

W
ith the kind of films
that unspool every
week, one can con‑
clude that there is a dearth of not
only ideas but also direction! A
varied kind of films are being
made. Each filmmaker trying to
come out with something differ‑
ent. This includes all ‑ big as well
as medium‑range producers. The
idea seems to be taking a shot in
the dark. It is all about taking
chances.
Some producers are falling
back on period costume dramas,
which work out very costly and
not every director's cup of tea.
This genre was avoided for a long
time mainly because of these two
reasons, capability and cost. Yet,
we have had period films like
"Bajirao Mastani" and
"Padmaavat", "Manikarnika" and
"Kesari".
Each week, a new kind of film is
dropped in the market. For
instance, last week we had
"Khandaani Shafakhana", a film
discussing sexual problems for
those who can make sense of the
title! For one, sex and problems
related to it are not generally dis‑
cussed in India. Delhi and sur‑
rounding areas do have such clin‑
ics but that does not make the
subject acceptable all over.
One may have thought if Vicky
Donor could work, why not take
it a step further? An odd subject
like "Vicky Donor" or "Piku", very
personal to people, does work.
But they need to be woven into a
plausible story and dealt with a
fair amount of humor.
Actor Akshay Kumar has become a torchbearer of the films
that convert real‑life stories into reel life sagas.
Most writers who script stories
like "Piku" or "Vicky Donor", or
directors who make films like
"Dangal", "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag"
and "Neerja", have always had
this problem: What next? They
usually have nothing that match‑
es the earlier success. No maker
seemed to have a worthy succes‑
sor. So, they go back to usual
claptrap and come a cropper.
Akshay Kumar has become a
torchbearer of the films that con‑
vert real‑life stories into reel life
sagas. He has been greatly suc‑
cessful in his endeavors. His
image of being a thoroughbred
nationalist probably adds to the
acceptability of his films. His
instincts and beliefs seem to be
paying up so far.
It is believed that there are only
seven basic storylines in this
world. Films were made accord‑
ingly. There was a time when
some makers stuck to making
religion‑based or mythological
films while a few others only
made horror movies. The main‑
stay for most makers, however,
was romance and family socials.
Action movies were not in vogue
in the mainstream cinema till
mid‑1970 and action, in a meas‑
ured amount, was a part of regu‑
lar movies.
Now, the genres of family
socials, horror and mythology
have been taken away by televi‑
sion serials. Action films are
accepted only coming from a
couple of stars. There is little
choice left for filmmakers.
The limited choice is between
romance, action and comedy,
with few writers and makers to
justify the last named. While
ideas are borrowed from foreign
films (which includes this year's
National Award winner,
"Andhadhun"), and films from
South languages are being
sought once again for remakes
by a few.
"I have done stupid things for
movies. I wanted to see 'Mesrine Part
1: Killer Instinct' and I was trying to
figure out where I could catch the
film. So, I googled every city in the
world where 'Mesrine' was playing.
At times, I fly to other countries to
watch films. So, when 'Mesrine Part
II' was releasing, both parts of the
film were playing back‑to‑back at
Curzon Soho in London, and I flew to
London to catch the film! The film‑
maker revealed "House Of Cards"
changed his perception about digital
series.
"'House of Cards' changed the way I
saw shows. Suddenly, shows became
cinema to me. There was a voice to it.
The others on my list are 'True
Detective' and 'Delhi Crime'," said
Khayyam: Music maestro of classical allure
New Delhi: When living legend Lata
Mangeshkar tweeted to describe
music maestro Khayyam's demise as
the "end of an era", she said it all.
Not surprisingly, the first film that
comes to mind when you talk
Khayyam is "Umrao Jaan", Muzaffar
Ali's lavish costume drama of 1981,
which won the composer a National
Award for Best Music Direction.
Ghazals, thumris, dadras and other
genres of Hindustani classical music
were Khayyam's forte. In an era when
orchestra pop reigned, Khayyam was
what many in Bollywood referred to
as an artiste of refined expertise. He
revelled composing songs in these
intrinsically Indian genres for films
such as "Anjuman" (1986), "Razia
Sultan" (1983), "Bazaar" (1982), "Dil‑
e‑Nadaan" (1982), and "Noorie"
(1979).
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.
Anurag, opening up about his influ‑
ences in the IMDb Original "The
Insider's Watchlist".
What would he recommend for
upcoming filmmakers? "Watch
Vittorio De Sica's 'Bicycle Thieves'.
The film is historical, political and it
has much irony to it. It is a film
through which you understand a
country, a time, a space," he said.
His classical flair prompted the leg‑
endary Meena Kumari to approach
Khayyam to score music for her
album, "I Write, I Recite", where she
sang her own poetry.
But Khayyam was equally effective
scoring simpler tunes that compli‑
mented the poetry of Sahir Ludhianvi
in "Kabhi Kabhie" and "Trishul", or
Gulzar in "Thodisi Bewafaii". These
films were musical hits.
Khayyam was a genius with a large
heart, which genius became evident in
2016 when composer and his singer‑
wife Jagjit Kaur established the
Khayyam‑Jagjit Kaur KPG Charitable
Trust, in the memory of their son, the
late actor Pradeep who passed away
six years ago. The couple gave away
all their earnings to the cause of
upcoming artistes and technicians of
the film industry.
 20 August 24-30, 2019
Advancing interdependence and
common ground on India Day
By Frank Islam
I
n his first speech after winning the election
for his second term, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi proclaimed that "we have to
win ''sabka vishwas'' (everyoneʼs trust)." What
will be required to win that trust is establishing
a true state of interdependence.
Interdependence can be achieved by creating a
country in which there is a shared understand‑
ing of the value of each citizen and a reliance
on one another to eliminate discrimination,
hostility, and prejudice and to provide equality
and opportunity for all. All citizens must be
active participants in shaping the future of
India. They must be equal partners in Indiaʼs
inclusive economic mobility and in Indiaʼs
shared prosperity. Independence Day is the per‑
fect day to highlight the importance of and
advance the concept of interdependence. This
can be accomplished by promoting the need for
a unified India on this national holiday.
T he need for doing this is critical.
Unfortunately, in the period since the Prime
Minister called for winning "trust" in his speech,
some Indians have engaged in actions destroy‑
ing it. Sadly, the heinous crimes at the begin‑
ning of Modi's second term are nothing new.
There were several lynchings and numerous
attacks on Muslims during his first term.
Modi did not speak out vigorously then. He
must do so now to demonstrate the essential
leadership that will be required to create a state
of interdependence. There are other serious
Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation rapidly approaching 100,000 schools target
By Prakash Waghmare
C
onsidering Ekal Vidyalaya
Foundationʼs profound impact and
rapid growth at the grass‑root level,
Indian PM Narendra Modi in 2017 gave Ekal
a unique goal of establishing 100,000
schools by 2022, which happens to be the
75th anniversary of Indiaʼs Independence.
Ekal is poised to ring the ʻtarget‑bellʼ by
early 2020 itself.
We already have 93,000 schools in the
same number of villages that are grooming
2.55 million children & youths each year for
lifeʼs major challenges. Remarkably, more
than half of them are girls and quite a few of
its alumni have gone on to become high‑cal‑
iber teachers, District Of ficers, company
administrators and technocrats in their adult
life. Although rooted in Education, Ekal has
blossomed into healthcare, integrated village
development and economic empowerment.
Recently, UNESCO confirmed that, defying
global trend, India is likely to meet 100%
child enrolment and school completion tar‑
get set by them by in 2030. This is a conse‑
quential endorsement of Ekalʼs educational
mission in rural and tribal areas of India.
This year, “Ekal Abhiyan Trustʼ (an umbrella
body for various of f‑shoots of Ekal) was
bestowed with “Gandhi Peace Prize” by the
Govt of India for its contribution to educa‑
tion in remote areas, with gender and social
INDIA FEATURES
All its citizens must be made equal
partners in Indiaʼs inclusive economic
mobility and in shared prosperity.
conditions that must be addressed as well. To
name just a few: sexual violence and subjuga‑
tion of females continues; the caste system still
exists; and, the problematic conditions of those
in the weaker sections persist.
By speaking out, Prime Minister Modi can
bring the country together to confront the mat‑
ters that are hardening Indiaʼ's democratic
arteries. He cannot do that alone, however. He
Ekal Abhiyan Trust was bestowed the Gandhi Peace Prize by the Govt of India this
year. Seen at the ceremony are Ekal Abhiyanʼs Senior Trustee M.L. Jain,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind.
equality. Ekal is the largest literacy move‑
ment undertaken by the Indians and NRIs in
a dozen countries.
In last one year alone, Ekal has successful‑
ly added 20,000 schools. This meteoric rise
has been partly due to high‑end “Future of
India” Galas has started hosting in various
metropolitan areas since 2017. Last year,
between October 6‑13, it hosted three Galas
will need buy in and support from across the
country and the citizenry.
A first step should be to "find our spiritual
common ground". That step can be initiated by
recognizing that spirit is the invisible force that
brings us together regardless of our caste, race,
religion, region or political predisposition. The
goal in discovering that common ground should
be to create one nation under God. That nation
would be an interdependent one and its God
would be ecumenical and non‑denominational.
Its God would be welcoming to all.
As one nation, India would celebrate and
embrace the richness of religious diversity
As one nation, India would be inclusive and
accepting unity over division and hope over
fear As one nation, India would elevate citizen‑
ship above angry and mindless partisanship
and bring people together to pursue the com‑
mon good
As one nation, India would be the place
known for sharing and caring as opposed to
blaming and shaming
As one nation, India would emphasize build‑
ing bridges instead of constructing boundaries
and barriers As one nation, India would ensure
that all its people are literate and equipped with
the skills to succeed in the 21st century
As one nation, India would extend lifelines
instead of drawing battle lines
As one nation, India would be a land of big
dreams, small treasures, brave people, kind
deeds, and tender mercies
As one nation, India would ensure the impor‑
‑‑ in Houston, Washington DC & New York –
and raised over $5 Million. This was in addi‑
tion to $6 Million it had already raised
through its annual fund‑raising concerts
across USA in 55 cities.
This year, two Galas have been planned ‑
one in Los Angeles area and another in NYC.
LA Gala is being hosted on September 14 at
ʻHyatt Regencyʼ (Long Beach, CA), and NYC
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
tance of the freedom of the free press, not to
bury it
As one nation, India would be a role model
and exemplar for other democracies to emulate.
Everyone must play a role in establishing
India as one nation. Each citizen should engage
in small acts of kindness by reaching out to
those less fortunate and to the downtrodden by
extending a helping hand and a hand up.
Some people can make special contributions.
Religious leaders should promote interfaith dia‑
logue. They should bring people together fol‑
lowers of different persuasions for meaningful
conversations. They should promote a dialogue
of understanding and a shared sense of commu‑
nity with other faiths. They should call the fact
that attack on one faith is attack on all faiths.
Political leaders should promote a framework
of unity and civility. Civic and community lead‑
ers should promote collaboration in problem‑
solving. They should toil together their creeds
to plant the seeds for doing good deeds. There
is no better day on which to resume our jour‑
ney than Independence Day. There is no better
way to make that journey than to chart a course
to interdependence. By reaching that destina‑
tion, India will establish itself as the beacon of
hope for democracy worldwide. By realizing
that potential, India will bring a new dawn for
democracy in this 21st century.
Frank F. Islam is an Indian‑American entre‑
preneur, civic and thought leader based in
Washington DC. The views expressed are
personal.
Gala is taking place on November 9 at the
majestic ʻGotham Hallʼ.
At LA Gala, the keynote speaker is going to
be ʻEmily Churchʼ, Exec Dir of ʻXPrize
Foundationʼ with Bollywood heart‑throb
Vivek Oberoi as the special guest. Bollywood
comedian ʻOmi Vaidyaʼ will be featured as
will be fusion‑music concert by ʻNauzadʼ.
Ekal is a duly registered as a non‑profit
501(C) in USA and dispenses its assistance in
rural areas irrespective of recipientʼs reli‑
gion, creed, caste and region. Its overhead is
barley 10%.
Suresh Iyer, President of ʻEkal‑USAʼ, has
confirmed that, so far this year, Ekal has
raised almost $5.5 Million. Attributing this
to thousands of devout donors and dedicated
volunteers, Suresh is confident that, with two
Galas, Ekal will once again cut through $10
million mark by the yearʼs end.
In 2017, Bajrang Bagra, CEO of ʻEkal
Abhiyan Trustʼ, initiated a special literacy
project for ʻtroubled spotsʼ in border region.
He has confirmed that almost 6,000 Ekal
schools are in operation in Jammu and
Kashmir and that has resulted in establish‑
ing peace, tranquility, and life‑normalcy in
peopleʼs lives there.
For details of ticket purchase, sponsorship
of Ekal galas this year, please go to
www.lagala.ekal.org OR
www.nycgala.ekal.org.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info SUBCONTINENT August 24-30, 2019 21

UNSC accepts India's effort for

normalcy in Kashmir: Envoy
United Nations: The UN Security Council in
its informal consultation on Kashmir
acknowledged India's measures to bring
normalcy and development to the Union
Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, said
India's Permanent Representative Syed
Akbaruddin.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting,
Akbaruddin said India's "position was and
remains that matters pertaining to Article
370 are entirely an internal matter of India.
These have no external ramifications.
"T he recent decision taken by the
Government of India and our legislative
bodies are intended to ensure that good
governance is promoted, socio‑economic
development is enhanced for our people in
Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," he said,
referring to the revocation of special status
for Kashmir and bifurcation of the state
into the Union Territories of J&K and
Ladakh.
"You are aware that the Chief Secretary of
India's permanent representative
to the UN, Syed Akbaruddin.
Jammu and Kashmir announced a whole
set of measures that the government is
undertaking to move towards normalcy," he
said, referring to the announcement by
Chief Secretary B.V.R. Subrahmanyam that
schools would be reopened, and that all
restrictions would be eased soon.
Referring to the results of the closed door
consultations, he said: "We are gratified
that the UNSC in its closed consultations
appreciated these ef forts, acknowledged
them, and indicated that this is the direc‑
tion that it would like the international
community to move. We are committed to
gradually removing all the restrictions."
Referring to the objections of China and
Pakistan, he said: "Since the change is inter‑
nal to India, it has not made any difference
to our external orientation. India remains
committed to ensure that the situation
there remains calm and peaceful."
The Council met for about an hour in a
closed‑door consultation at the request of
China. In the format of the informal consul‑
tation, it was held without public access.
Akbaruddin also said that after the end of
the closed consultations "we noted that two
states that made national statements tried
to pass them off as the will of the interna‑
tional community".
He said that since some were trying to
masquerade national statements as the will
of the international community, he was
there to explain India's national position.
Slamming Pakistan, which has been try‑
ing to whip up passions over Kashmir, he
said: "Of particular concern is that one state
is using terminology of jihad against and
promoting violence in India, including by
their leaders. Violence is no solution to the
problems that all of us face. We are com‑
mitted to and consistent in our previous
position that all issues between India and
Pakistan as well as India and any other
country will be resolved bilaterally, peace‑
fully and in a manner that behoves normal
inter‑state relations between countries.
"We are saddened that terrorism is being
fuelled, incendiary language and talk of
jihad is being mentioned by people who
should know better. We stand ready to con‑
tinue our efforts towards peaceful resolu‑
tion of all issues in an atmosphere free of
terrorism and violence," he said.

63 KILLED IN KABUL Would be unwise to alienate India,

BLAST, IS OWNS turn to Pakistan as partner: US expert
RESPONSIBILITY A
mid an increased India‑Pak
tension on Kashmir and an
ongoing Afghan peace talks,
a top American foreign policy expert
has cautioned the Trump
Administration against any strategic
tilt towards Pakistan and moving
away from India. "The US would be
unwise to turn to Pakistan as a
strategic partner," Richard N Hass,
president of the Council on Foreign
Relations, wrote in an op‑ed last
week.
Pakistan sees a friendly govern‑
ment in Kabul as vital to its security
and competition with arch‑rival
India, he wrote in his op‑ed that was
first published by Project Syndicate
and thereafter, on the CFR website.
"There is little reason to believe
that the military and intelligence
services, which continue to run
Pakistan, will rein in the Taliban or
rule out terrorism," Hass said.
"Equally, the US would be unwise
to alienate India. Yes, India has a tra‑
dition of protectionist trade policies
and often frustrates US policymakers
with its reluctance to cooperate fully
on strategic issues," he wrote.
"It is a natural partner to help bal‑
ance China. India has rejected partic‑
ipation in China's Belt and Road
Initiative, whereas Pakistan, strug‑ Richard N Hass is the
gling economically, has embraced it," president of Council
Hass said. (PTI) on Foreign Relations.

Bajwa to remain Pak Army Chief

Blast took place inside the Shahr‑e‑Dubai
wedding hall in Kabul.
Kabul: At least 63 people were
killed and over 180 injured in a
suicide bombing at a packed
wedding hall here, reports said.
The IS has claimed responsibili‑
ty for the attack, which has left
many relatives of the couple
getting married dead.
Citing an IS statement issued
in Arabic, Khaama Press report‑
ed that the attack, "which tar‑
geted a gathering of non‑believ‑
ers", was carried out by IS sui‑
cide bomber Abu Asim Al‑
Pakistani.
Earlier, the Taliban, in a state‑
ment, rejected any involvement
in the August 17 attack, saying
that they condemned incidents
which target women and chil‑
dren.
Interior Ministry spokesman
Nusrat Rahimi said the blast,
that took place around 10.40
pm was a suicide bombing,
TOLO News reported. He also
expressed apprehensions that
the number of casualties might
increase.
Sources and witnesses said
the Shahr‑e‑Dubai wedding hall,
located in police district 6
(PD6), was packed with guests
when the explosion occurred.
for another three years
Islamabad: Pakistan Army Chief,
Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa's term
has been extended by three years
citing the "regional security envi‑
ronment".
Even be fore the of ficial
announcement, Bajwa's continua‑
tion in office was seen as a fore‑
gone conclusion as in Pakistan,
the army chief decides the dura‑
tion of his own term even though
the order for the extension of his
term was signed by Prime
Minister Imran Khan.
Bajwa, who became the Army
chief on November 29, 2016, did
not want to leave office at a time
when Islamabad's relations with
India are at the lowest ebb and
the US is preparing to leave
Afghanistan, throwing open a new
chapter in the region's geopolitics.
In terms of the internal political
situation in Pakistan, Bajwa is said
to be in total command as he
played a key role in getting Imran
Khan e lected as the Prime
Minister.
Apart from handling the inter‑
nal situation in the country, Bajwa
is playing a direct role in driving
foreign policy. He was in the US
with Imran Khan on the crucial
visit last month and is said to be
the key man for Washington in its Pakistan Army Chief, Gen
plans to exit Afghanistan. Qamar Javed Bajwa.
 22 August 24-30, 2019 INTERNATIONAL TheSouthAsianTimes.info

100,000 hit streets as Zakir Naik in soup over

protests continue to roil HK racial speeches in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur: Controversial
Hong Kong: Over
Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who
100,000 people dressed
was granted permanent residency
in black took part in the
in Malaysia after he fled India on
pro‑democracy protests,
being charged with giving inflam‑
amid severe warnings
matory speeches, has been barred
from Beijing. Rains could‑
from holding religious talks in
n't dissuade people from
several Malaysian states.
filling the Victoria Park
Naik, who has been living in
then spilling out to occu‑
Malaysia for the last three years,
py major roads in all
is in the limelight for his remarks
direct ions, the BBC
against non‑Muslim minorities,
reported. A file photo of controversial
especially the Chinese and Hindus
T he protests were preacher Zakir Naik addressing
in Malaysia. Malaysia's former a press conference via Skype.
sparked by an extradition
police chief Rahim Noor has
bill, which has since been
urged the government to rescind called on the Malaysian Chinese
suspended by the Hong
his Permanent Resident (PR) sta‑ to "go back" first as they were the
Kong government.
tus and return him to India. "old guests" of the country.
Subway railway sta‑ Violent radicals block a passage at Hong Kong International Airport. "Prime Minister Mahathir "Later on, more people came
tions were forced to shut
Mohamad had commented that and Malaysia became fully
after getting clogged with pro‑ again." Activists and the police peaceful gatherings. Last week‑
the government will consider Muslim. Then you have the
testers heading to the rally. have clashed over the past 10 end, activists occupied the air‑
rescinding his PR status if it is Chinese coming, the Indian com‑
Though the authorities didn't weeks with the security forces port, leading to cancellation of
proven that he has committed ing, the British coming. They are
grant permission to organisers frequently firing tear gas and hundreds of flights. The turmoil
criminal offences," Noor was our new guests. "People call me a
Civil Rights Human Front for the rubber bullets, but this week‑ has plunged one of Asia's leading
quoted as saying. guest. So I said, before me, the
march, the sheer weight of num‑ end's rallies have been peaceful. financial centres into crisis.
In his racial comments, Naik Chinese were the guests. They
bers around the park meant that China, which has built up secu‑ Mass protests erupted in June
had said that Hindus in Malaysia aren't born here. If you want the
activists had to shift to streets. rity forces in nearby Shenzhen, over the Hong Kong govern‑
get "100 times more rights" than new guest to go first, (then) ask
However, the police had allowed has likened the protests to ter‑ ment's now‑shelved extradition
the Muslim minority gets in India, the old guests to go back…”
demonstration in Victoria Park. rorist activity. bill, the South China Morning
and yet they support the "Prime The Malaysian Prime Minister,
Wong, a protester, said, "We After increasingly violent clash‑ Post reported.
Minister of India and not the who has backed the Muslim schol‑
have been fighting for more than es in recent weeks, there's been a The administration dropped
Prime Minister of Malaysia". ar several times before, said the
two months, but there has been concerted effort to win back pub‑ the draft legislation on June 15
Despite facing calls for deporta‑ preacher has gone too far with his
no government response. We lic support for the democratic and city leader Carrie Lam later
tion by multiple parties, Naik recent racial comments.
could just come out again and reforms by focusing on larger declared it dead.

N Korea says it tested 'new UK PM to tell EU leaders

weapon' under Kim's guidance
North Korean leader Kim Jong‑un guiding the test‑fire of a new weapon.
Seoul/Pyongyang: North Korea said that it
has tested a "new weapon" under the guid‑
ance of its leader, Kim Jong‑un, in the
launch of two projectiles the previous day,
the media reported. Kim "guided the test‑
fire of (a) new weapon again on August
16", the state‑run Korean Central News
Agency (KCNA) said. "The national defense
scientists showed a perfect result in the
test‑fire, too, and helped cement bigger
confidence in this weapon system.
"It is our party's goal of defence building
to possess invincible military capabilities
no one dare provoke and to keep bolster‑
ing them," KCNA quoted Kim as saying.
"Everyone should remember that it is the
party's core plan and fixed will for defence
building to possess such a powerful force
to renegotiate Brexit deal
London: British Prime
Minister Boris Johnson
will tell European Union
(EU) leaders that there
needs to be a new Brexit
deal when he makes his
first trip abroad as the
Prime Minister later this
week.
The UK will leave the
European Union (EU) on
October 31 with or with‑
out a deal, Johnson will
insist.
Meanwhile, the Sunday
Times has printed leaked
strong enough to discourage any forces government documents
from daring to provoke us." The report warning of food, medi‑
came a day after South Korea's military cine and fuel shortages
said that the North fired two projectiles in a no‑deal scenario, the
presumed to be short‑range ballistic mis‑ BBC reported. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
siles off its east coast. It said that they flew A source told the BBC
around 230 km at a maximum altitude of that a former minister leaked the dossier to try blocking what needed to be done to get ready
30 km. to influence discussions with EU leaders. to leave and the funds were not available".
Military experts say that the projectiles The documents say the cross‑government Michael Gove, who is responsible for over‑
bear outward similarities to the US' Army paper on preparations for a no‑deal Brexit, seeing the devolution consequences of Brexit,
Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), a sur‑ code‑named Operation Yellowhammer, reveals said in a tweet that Operation Yellowhammer
face‑to‑surface missile system. that the UK could face months of disruption at was "a worst case scenario".
The recent firing came six days after its ports. It also states that plans to avoid a Johnson is expected to say Parliament can‑
North Korea flew two projectiles believed hard border between Northern Ireland and the not and will not change the outcome of the
to be short‑range ballistic missiles, though Republic of Ireland are unlikely to prove sus‑ 2016 referendum and insist there must be a
the North said later it tested a "new tainable. new deal to replace May's withdrawal agree‑
weapon". It also was the sixth such launch The Downing Street source told the BBC the ment ‑‑ defeated three times by the MPs ‑‑ if
since late July. leaked document "is from when ministers were the UK is to leave the EU with a deal.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info BUSINESS August 24-30, 2018 23

Trump defends China policy, Recession likely in

says US economy is world's best 12 months: Survey
Washington: President Donald
Trump has defended his strategy Mumbai: After Morgan Stanley, Bank of successive quarters. Warning signals are
versus China, on whose goods America Merrill Lynch (BofAML) has on also coming via other historic indicators
Washington has imposed heavy Monday on the basis of a survey of fund of recession: the bond yield curve, which
tarif fs as the two nat ions are managers said a recession is imminent. gets inverted before a recession. The
engaged in high‑stakes trade talks, One‑third of those surveyed by BofAML yield curve is now nearly similar to what
and he called the US economy "the expect recession in the next 12 months. was seen ahead of the 2008 financial
best in the world." Thirty‑four per cent Of the 224 fund‑ meltdown.
"Our economy is the best in the managers with $553 billion of assets Morgan Stanley earlier said if the
world, by far. Lowest unemploy‑ under management said recession was trade war escalated further with the US
ment ever within almost all cate‑ likely in a year. However, 64 per cent further raising tarif fs on all goods
gories," wrote Trump on his said it was unlikely. imported from China to 25 per cent, "we
Twitter account, the Efe news According to BofAML, this was the would see the global economy entering
reported. Trump has threatened to slap 10 per cent highest recession probability since recession in three quarters".
The US economy is "poised for big tariffs on an additional $300 billion worth October 2011. BofAML's report comes However, India is not close to a reces‑
of Chinese exports to the US. days after the investment firm Morgan sion but is witnessing a crippling slow‑
growth after trade deals are com‑
pleted. Import prices down," the president threat that intensified the trade war between Stanley said a recession was due in 9 down. Some sectors, like the automobile
added in the same tweet, going on to claim the two economic powerhouses, since the months if the US‑China trade tension industry, is dangerously close to a reces‑
that "China eating Tariffs. Helping targeted new tariffs would have meant that all China's escalated further. A recession is general‑ sion. India's economy has shrunk for
Farmers from big Tarif f money coming in. products would be subject to significant ly identified by decline in a country's three straight quarters and the growth
Great future for USA!" import duties when entering the US. gross domestic product (GDP) in two forecast is also not uplifting.
In another Twitter post, the President However, Trump later postponed the meas‑
alluded directly to his administration's policy ure, saying that the new tariffs would not go
toward the Asian giant, saying "We are doing into effect until December 15.
very well with China, and talking!" Analysts interpreted the postponement as
On August 1, Trump threatened to slap 10 an attempt by the administration to avoid
India's forex reserves
per cent tariffs on an additional $300 billion impacting US consumers, mainly during the
worth of Chinese exports to the US that are Christmas buying season, what appeared to
still not weighed down with the tariffs the US be a tacit acknowledgement that American
reach $430.57 billion
imposed previously. The new tarif fs were shoppers are the ones being asked to, in Mumbai: India's foreign exchange and India's reserve position with the
slated to go into ef fect on September 1, a effect, foot the bill for the tariffs. reserves increased by $1.62 billion dur‑ International Monetary Fund (IMF).
ing the week ended August 9, of ficial On a weekly basis, FCAs ‑ the largest

GE engaged in 'bigger fraud

data showed. component of the forex reserves ‑ edged
According to the Reserve Bank of higher by $15.2 million to $398.739
India's weekly statistical supplement, billion. Besides the US dollar, FCAs con‑

than Enron': Whistleblower the overall forex reserves rose to

San Francisco: A whistleblower has accused
General Electric (GE) of hiding massive losses
by engaging in a $38 billion accounting
fraud, which is "bigger than Enron".
In his report this week, investigator Harry
Markopolos accused GE of utilizing many of
the same accounting tricks as Enron did to
mislead the investors.
"In fact, GE's $38 billion in accounting fraud
amounts to over 40 per cent of GE's market
capitalisation, making it far more serious than
either the Enron or WorldCom accounting
frauds," said the report.
GE denied the charge saying the 175‑page
report contained false statements.
"GE will always take any allegation of finan‑
cial misconduct seriously. But this is market
manipulation ‑ pure and simple," Lawrence
Culp, Chairman and Chief executive Officer of
GE said in a statement.
"Mr. Markopolos' report contains false
statements of fact and these claims could
have been corrected, if he had checked them
with GE before publishing the report," said
the statement.
Investigator
Harry
Markopolos
accused GE of
utilizing
many of the
same
accounting
tricks as
Enron did to
mislead the
investors.
To investigate GE's fraud, Markopolos team
went out and located the eight largest Long‑
Term Care (LTC) insurance deals that GE is a
counterparty to, accounting for approximate‑
ly 95 per cent or more of GE's exposure.
Either these eight insurance companies filed
false statutory financial statements with their
regulators or GE's financial statements are
false, alleged the report.
The investigator said he got access to these
eight insurers' statutory financial statements
filed with the relevant state insurance com‑
missions.
The Enron scandal, revealed in 2001, led to
the prosecution of several of its executives.
Enron's CEO, Jeff Skilling resigned on August
14, 2001. The company was downgraded to
junk status on November 28, 2001 and filed
for bankruptcy protection on December 2
that year.
Markopolos is best known for his role as the
whistleblower, who warned the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC), the US's top
financial watchdog, about Madof f 's Ponzi
scheme, the Guardian reported.
$430.57 billion from $428.95 billion
reported for the week ended August 2.
sist of 20‑30 per cent of the other
major global currencies.
The RBI's weekly data showed that
India's forex reserves comprise the value of the country's gold reserves
Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs), gold went up by $1.59 billion to $26.75 bil‑
reserves, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) lion.
Slowdown dogs auto sector,
overall retail sales down 6%
New Delhi: The general eco‑
nomic slowdown, along with
t ig ht liquidity condit ions,
dragged overall retail sales of
the Indian automobile sector in
July down by 6 per cent on a
year‑on‑year basis.
According to data furnished
by the Federat ion of
Automobile Dealers
Associations (FADA), overall
retail sales last month declined
to 16,54,535 units from
17,59,219 units reported for units in July 2018.
the corresponding month of previous fis‑ Similarly, July retail sales for the two‑
cal. However, on the month‑on‑month wheeler category, fell by 5 per cent to
basis, the overall retail sales grew higher 13,32,384 units from 14,03,382 units.
by 5 per cent to 16,54,535 units from an "Consumer sent iment and overall
off‑take of 15,81,141 units in June. The demand continued to be quite weak
data also showed that retail sales of pas‑ across all segments and most geographies.
senger vehicles were lower by 11 per cent The July sales continue to be in the nega‑
on a Y‑o‑Y basis. Sales declined to tive zone YoY. Although some respite seen
2,43,183 units in July from 2,74,772 with growth in MoM numbers which was
units reported for the corresponding mainly due to revival of the monsoon
month of previous fiscal. On a Y‑o‑Y basis, bringing some positivity and also June
commercial vehicle retail sales during the having the 2nd lowest volume base this
month under review edged lower by 14 calendar year after February," FADA
per cent to 23,118 units from 26,815 President Ashish Harsharaj Kale said.
 24 August 24-30, 2019
Indian men thrash Japan
to enter Test Event final
Tokyo: After a 1‑2 loss against
New Zealand in their second
match of the Olympic Test Event,
the Indian men's hockey team
booked their place in the final by
defeating Japan 6‑3 in their final
round‑robin clash held at the Oi
Hockey Stadium on Tuesday.
Mandeep Singh (9', 29', 30'),
Nilakanta Sharma (3'), Nilam
Sanjeep Xess (7') and Gurjant
Singh (41') scored for India, while
Kentaro Fukuda (25'), Kenta
Tanaka (36') and Kazuma Murata
(52') scored the goals for Japan.
Nilakanta got India of f to an
excellent start through a field goal
in the third minute. The Indian
team put tremendous pressure on
the Japan defence as Gurjant took
a shot on goal, but saw his shot
going wide of the post.
However, a penalty corner was
awarded to India in the seventh
minute which was converted bril‑
liantly by Nilam to help the team
take a 2‑0 lead.
India cont inued to take the
aggressive approach and a few
minutes later, Mandeep found the
back of the net with an excellent
Smith returns to No.2
in Test rankings
Dubai: Steve Smith, who followed up
his twin tons at Edgbaston with a
92 at Lord's in the second Ashes
Test, has reclaimed the No.2 spot in
the ICC Test Rankings for batsmen
as per the latest updated rankings
published by ICC on its website.
England pacer Jofra Archer has
debuted at No.83 on the bowlers'
ranking.
Smith's 92 in the second Ashes
Test took his runs tally to 378 in
three innings at an impressive aver‑
age of 126. Despite being banned
for a year, he is only nine points
behind table‑topper Virat Kohli,
with Smith making up 19 points on
the Indian captain after his per‑
formance at Lord's. Australia pacer
Pat Cummins has strengthened his
hold on the Test Rankings for
bowlers, reaching career‑high rank‑
ing points. Several Australians have
made noteworthy strides in the bat‑
ting rankings owing to their per‑
formances in the ongoing Ashes
series. Travis Head climbed two
spots to No.18, while Marnus
Labuschagne has jumped 16 spots
on the table to be No.82. Their
English rivals, notably Ben Stokes
(six spots up to No.26), Jonny
Bairstow (seven spots up to No.30)
and Rory Burns (17 spots up to
No.64) have made advances too.
However, Australia's top‑order play‑
ers David Warner (down four),
Usman Khawaja and Cameron
Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh in action.
field goal in the ninth minute.
Japan tried to make inroads in the
last few minutes of the first quar‑
ter as they won a penalty corner.
Gurinder Singh positioned himself
brilliantly and defended the shot
on the goal line. India led 3‑0 at
the end of the first quarter.
India continued their attacking
game in the second quarter with
Jarmanpreet taking a shot on goal,
but putting it wide of the post.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh had a
A rocket Jofra Archer bouncer
clattered Steve Smith down flat
on his face. (Photo: IANS)
Bancroft (both down five) have lost
out. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka captain
Dimuth Karunaratne, whose bril‑
liant 122 in the first Test helped his
team claim a six‑wicket win over
New Zealand, has broken into the
top 10, climbing four spots to No.8,
the highest he has been in his
seven‑year Test career. Among
bowlers, Archer, who returned
match figures of 5/91 in his debut
Test at Lord's, has broken through
in the rankings to 83rd. Jack Leach,
who was playing only his sixth Test,
climbed eight spots to be No.40.
The left‑arm spinner, who made his
Test debut against New Zealand last
year, has already picked up 24
wickets at an average of 24.16.
SPORTS
shot on target, but the Japanese
goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa
pulled off a brilliant save.
Japan managed to open their
account through a field goal by
Kentaro Fukuda in the 25th
minute, but Mandeep scored two
field goals in quick succession to
help India take a massive lead at
5‑1. T he Indian vice‑captain
scored just before the half‑time
whistle in the 29th and 30th min‑
utes.
Archer's heart skipped a
beat when ball hit Smith
London: England's Jofra Archer said
that he did breath a sigh of relief
when former Australia skipper
Steve Smith got up after being hit
on the neck by a bouncer bowled by
the 24‑year‑old on Day 4 of the sec‑
ond Ashes Test at Lord's.
Archer clarified that hurting the
batsman was never the idea. "It is
never the plan. You are trying to get
a wicket first. To see him go down,
everyone stopped and everyone's
heart skipped a beat," Archer said.
Archer lighted up Lord's on his
Test debut with some hostile fast
bowling. He took five wickets across
two innings and peppered the
Australian batsmen with short
deliveries that clattered against
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Sreesanth's ban to end in
August 2020: Ombudsman
New Delhi: Observing that Indian
pacer S. Sreesanth has under‑
gone a ban for alleged spot‑fixing
for almost six years, Board of
Control for Cricket in India
(BCCI) Ombudsman, Justice
(retd) D.K. Jain has ordered the
restriction to end in August
2020.
"Sreesanth is already facing a
ban, for almost a period of six
years now, which bars him from
playing cricket or participating
in any event, with which the BCCI
is, directly or indirectly, associat‑
ed. S. Sreesanth.
"Even otherwise, for Mr.
Sreesanth, who is now in his late Committee had commenced, will
thirties, his prime years as a meet the ends of justice," the
cricketer, particularly as a fast Ombudsman said in his August 7
bowler may already be over. order.
"Bearing in mind, all these fac‑ The BCCI had banned
tors, I am of the view that ban‑ Sreesanth for life in August 2013
ning Sreesanth from participat‑ for his alleged involvement in the
ing in any kind of commercial spot‑fixing scandal that rocked
cricket or from associating with the 2013 Indian Premier League.
any activities of the BCCI or its On March 15, the Supreme
affiliates, for a period of seven Court had quashed the BCCI dis‑
years with effect from ciplinary committee's order that
September 13, 2013, i.e. the date imposed a life ban on Sreesanth
from which the period of ban and directed the committee to
imposed by the Disciplinary take action.
left side of his neck and he col‑
lapsed immediately.
Smith eventually managed to
recover and walk off. While Archer
earned praise from many quarters
for his impact on the match and
possibly the series, there were some
who chastised him for not showing
enough concern for Smith after the
latter was on the ground.
"After he got up he was moving
around and you breathe a sigh of
relief. No one wants to see anyone
Jofra Archer.
getting carried off on a stretcher,"
(Photo: Twitter/@JofraArcher)
Archer told BBC One before the
their helmets and bodies. One of start of play on Day 5. "It was a
good challenge, a really good spell.
those forced Smith to retire hurt on
For me, I wouldn't like to see it end
Day 4 after the ball hit the prolific
like that."
former Australian captain on the
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ADVERTISEMENT August 24-30, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE
 26 August 24-30, 2019 BOOKS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

New book applauds Ranjit Singhʼs polity, rule

By Vishnu Makhijani ruled with an iron hand and was

Maharajaʼs statue an absolute monarch, he was

T
he secularism of Maharaja known to be scrupulously fair,
Ranjit Singh (1780‑1839) never tyrannical and generous to
needs to be studied in the
current context for the manner in
vandalized in Lahore de feated foes,” the author
explained. But as another great

which he brought together a col‑
lection of warring misls (confed‑
eracies) to create a Sikh Empire
that stretched from the Khyber
Pass in the west to western Tibet
in the east, and from Mithankot in
the south to Kashmir in the north,
says US‑based poet, playwright
and commentator Sarbpreet Singh
in a new book. “Ranjit Singh needs
to be studied, ce lebrated and
humanized not just in Punjab but
all over India. There are many
unique aspects of his court, most
notably his insistence on meritoc‑
racy and pragmatic embrace of
true secularism, which I feel are
very essential for India given
where we find ourselves today,”
Singh told IANS in an email inter‑
view on his book, T he Came l
Merchant of Philade lphia
(Tranqebar).
Given the vastness of the sub‑
ject, the book focuses on Ranjit
Singhʼs cosmopolitan Sikh court in
Lahore. Beg inning from the
repeated invasions of Nadir Shah
to the innumerable skirmishes
between Afghan and Sikh misls to
the rise and consolidat ion of
Ranjit Singhʼs Sukerchakias misl,
the book brings alive the
Maharajaʼs tumultuous but ef fec‑
tive reign.
One is intro duced to Akali
Phoola Singh, who won Ranjit
The book focuses on Ranjit
Singhʼs cosmopolitan Sikh court
in Lahore. The author lauds the
Maharaja for his insistence on
meritocracy and pragmatic
embrace of true secularism.
Singh some of his most notable
victories, but never fully submit‑
ted to him; the teenaged courtesan
Bibi Moran, the love of Maharajaʼs
life; Josh Harlan, a Quaker from
Philadelphia (who features in the
title) who became a trusted admin‑
istrator but de fected to the
Afghans, and many more such
characters. What could the rise of
Maharaja Ranjit Singh be ascribed
to? “After the collapse of the
Mug hal Empire, Punjab had
descended into anarchy. T he
repeated incursion of Ahmed Shah
Abdali further weakened the
Mughalsʼ hold over Punjab.
“T he only resistance Abdali
I
n a show of intoler‑
ance for religions
other than Islam in
Pakistan, two men
allegedly vandalized a
statue of Punjabʼs
ruler Raja Ranjit Singh
placed near his grave
in Shahi Qila, Lahore.
Local
Superintendent of
Police told the Dawn
newspaper that the
attackers were moti‑
vated and vandalized
the statue "on the
basis of religious bias‑
es".
encountered was from Sikhs who
had consolidated into 12 misls,
who were constantly jockeying
against each other, but would
unite in the face of an external
threat. Ranjit Singh came from one
of the smallest and weakest of the
misls, the Shukerchakias.
“Aided in no small part by his
brilliant and visionary mother‑in‑
law, Sada Kaur, who was married
into the once powerful Kahnayya
misl, the young upstart was able
to seize power and get himself
crowned the King of Lahore, which
had been the capital of Mughal
Punjab. His genius became appar‑
ent quickly as he started consoli‑
dating power and through a com‑
bination of alliances and military
adventures, soon became the mas‑
ter of the entire Punjab. “One of
the early master strokes of his
reign was a treaty with the East
India Company, which enabled
him to secure his eastern border
and continue expanding e lse‑
where. Despite being unlettered,
Ranjit Singh was a shrewd leader,
who excelled at attracting the best
talent, an attribute that played a
huge role in his success. His rule
was marked by peace in the terri‑
tories he controlled. While he
writer, Khushwant Singh, has sep‑
arately recorded: “Ranjit Singhʼs
greatest oversight was his failure
to train any one of his sons to take
his place. When he died on the
evening of June 27, 1839, there
was no one fit to step into his
shoes and guide the destinies of
the State.”
How is it that there was no one
before or after Maharaja Ranjit
Singh? “The fiercely republican
nature of Sikhs in the 18th centu‑
ry precluded the rise of a ʻkingʼ. It
was only Ranjit Singhʼs genius and
his mother‑in‑lawʼs foresight that
made his reign possible.
“After his demise, a tragedy of
Shakespearean proportions played
out as every potential successor
perished due to treachery or hap‑
penstance. T he result was the
Empireʼs collapse, aided in no
small part by the perfidy of the
British and their ability to find
willing courtiers who betrayed the
Empire for their personal benefit,”
Sarbpreet explains.
The Empire was under threat
from the British, who were by then
the undisputed masters of the
Indian subcontinent. All this laid
the foundations for the first of the
two Anglo‑Sikh Wars and the sub‑
sequent annexation of Punjab by
the East India Company.
The wheel had come full circle.

Now, Marvel Superheroes in a book format

By Vishnu Makhijani and TV audiences," Saffel added.
Among the titles released are 'Avengers

Y
ou have read about them in comics
‑‑ that was the original genre. They
then transformed to the stage, to
the small screen, then to the big screen
and soon the streaming platform. Now,
read about your favorite Marve l
Superhero in book format with the seven
titles that have been released making
waves worldwide and also in India, where
they recently debuted.
What prompted the release of these
books considering that some of the origi‑
nal comics date back to the mid‑1960s
and that all of the originals, barring
Thanos, have been turned into hugely suc‑
cessful movies?
"As with the novels Marvel themselves
published previously, the Titan releases
are specifically based on the comic book
incarnations of the characters. In some
cases, such as 'Captain Marvel: Liberation
Run', the authors have produced entirely
new stories set within the comic book
canon. In others, as with 'X‑Men: The Dark
Phoenix Saga', they've adapted seminal
storylines," Stephen W. Saf fel, Senior
Acquisitions Editor at Titan Books, the
London‑based publisher, told IANS in an
‑‑ Everybody Wants To Rule The World',
'Ant‑Man ‑ Natural Enemy', 'Black Panther'
and 'Thanos ‑‑ Death Sentence'.
Saf fel said Titanʼs focus is entirely on
adapting the comic book concepts.
This comes with challenges, though, as
exemplified by 'Avengers: Infinity'. That
comic book event had many threads that
fed into various Marvel comic book titles,
"Yet we were tasked with producing a
novel that would be self‑contained and
entertaining. T hus the writer had to
organize the material very carefully, at
times removing elements that weren't
essential to the core storyline, while
expanding or reorganizing facets to keep
the narrative focused and dramatic" Saffel
explained.
"We've had a wonderful response. The
books have been very well‑reviewed, and
the readers have been enthusiastic. In
In some cases, such as 'Captain Marvel: Liberation Run', the authors have produced
entirely new stories set within the comic book canon. In others, as with 'X‑Men: many cases the novel has been a reader's
The Dark Phoenix Saga', they've adapted seminal storylines. first introduction to the characters or
comic book storylines, while in other
email interview. Because of their tremendous popularity, instances the readers have enjoyed the
"Our goal is to entertain as many read‑ many of these characters and storylines new approach to familiar storylines,'
ers as possible, so frequently we will have also led to films. Other novels will Saffel said, adding that there will be more
choose the most high‑profile characters. feature stories entirely new to the film novels down the line.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info IMMIGRATION August 24-30, 2019 27

By Michael Phulwani,
Esq. and Dev B.
Viswanath, Esq. The I‑212: Request for permission to
I reapply for admission after removal
f an individual was previously
removed or deported from the
United States based on sections
212(a)(9)(A), (9)(B), or or departure before filing the I‑ for admission is conditional upon tation or removal proceedings;
212(a)(9)(C) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (INA) they may
be allowed to re‑enter the U.S. by
VISA 212 request. One exception for
this rule is for foreign individualʼs
who entered the U.S. before April
the individualʼs departure from the
U.S. The Applicant must show
hardship to a qualifying relative or
Evidence of the individualʼs rela‑
tionship to any immediate rela‑
tives. If the relative is a U.S. citizen,

filing Form I‑212, Application for
Permission to Reapply for
Admission After Deportation or
Removal. Form I‑212 is a waiver
request which allows foreign indi‑
viduals to ask permission from the
U.S. government to apply for law‑
ful re‑admission to the U.S. after
they have been deported or
removed. An individual is not
allowed to return to the U.S. until
the I‑212 application is filed and
approved. While the application is
being processed the individual
must remain outside of the U.S.
except for limited circumstances.
Individualʼs who had been
deported or removed have com‑
mitted an immigration violation
and therefore not allowed to re‑
enter the U.S. for a specific period
of time. The period of inadmissibil‑
ity depends on the reason for the
TALK
individualʼs removal, circum‑
stances surrounding their removal,
and the amount of time they were
present in the U.S. unlawfully.
Individualʼs may be barred from
re‑entering the U.S. for five, ten,
twenty years, or indefinitely. The I‑
212 waiver allows certain foreign
individuals to ask permission to re‑
apply for admission to the U.S.
before their period of inadmissibil‑
ity has been reached. It can also be
requested in conjunction with a
waiver on form I‑601 for inadmis‑
sibility.
Foreign individualʼs who are per‑
manently inadmissible under sec‑
tion 212(a)(9)(C) of the INA must
wait until at least 10 years have
passed from their date of removal
1, 1997 because they are protect‑
ed by the Illegal Immigration
Reform and Immigrant
Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRI‑
RA). Under IIRIRA foreign individ‑
ualʼs who re‑entered the U.S.
before April 1, 1997 after their
removal are not subject to the per‑
manent bar. Foreign individualʼs
who have accrued unlawful pres‑
ence before April 1, 1997 are also
exempt from the permanent bar.
Individualʼs who are inadmissi‑
ble under 212(a)(9)(A) or (9)(B) of
the INA who have an outstanding
order of removal and are still in
the U.S., are allowed to file the I‑
212 Form before leaving the U.S.
as long as they plan to apply for an
immigrant visa abroad. USCIS has
a discretionary right to approve or
deny the application and once
approved, permission to reapply
employer. then proof of citizenship is
When submitting the I‑212 waiv‑ required;
er request, supporting documents Statement describing the favor‑
should be included. Examples of able and unfavorable factors of the
some supporting documents are: individualʼs case and why the
Copies of all the documents favorable factors outweigh the
relating to the individualʼs depor‑ unfavorable factors.
Dev Banad Viswanath is the Principal
Attorney of The Banad Law Offices PC
in the United States,
and Banad Immigration in India for which
Attorney Michael Phulwani is also affiliated
as Of Counsel. With Offices in Manhattan,
Queens, Bangalore, and Mumbai, the firm is
able to assist clients with all facets of the
immigration process, including
Employment Visas, Consular Visa Assistance,
Student Visas, Removal & Deportation, US
Citizenship and Green Card Applications
based on Family or Employment. Dev B.
Viswanath can be reached at
Dev@Banadlaw.com and 718‑361‑5999.

India sees dramatic rise in cyber
attacks post‑Kashmir decision?
New Delhi: There has been a rise in cyber attacks on
Indian institutions after the abrogation of Article 370
and 35A and the country needs to be extra careful
when it comes to the security of websites and critical
infrastructure, Russian cyber security firm Kaspersky
said on Monday.
On Sunday, the official website of the Bihar
Education Department was hacked and "RootAyyildiz
Turkish Hacker" claimed responsibility for posting
messages praising Pakistan and Islam like "We Love
Pakistan" on the website.
The hacked portal was later restored.
"We have definitely seen an increase in the cyber
attacks on India after the abrogation of Article 370 by
the Indian government. According to our Cyberthreat
World‑time Map, India is currently the 7th most
attacked country in the world," Saurabh Sharma,
Senior Security Researcher, Global Research and
Analysis Team (GReAT) APAC, Kaspersky, told IANS.
However, he added, it is difficult in the current situ‑
ation to understand if these are state‑sponsored
attacks.
"We cannot confirm if it originated from Pakistan or
it's a group of cyber attackers targeting India while
taking advantage of the current situation and leaving
SCI-TECH
Twitter slammed for
China‑backed ads
against HK protesters
Hong Kong: Users on the
social bookmarking web‑
site Pinboard have
slammed China‑backed
advertisements being run
on Twitter, attacking
Hong Kong protesters.
The ads try to portray the
protests as "escalating violence"
and call for "order to be restored,"
Engadget reported on Monday.
messages that may suggest otherwise," said Sharma. "Every day I go out and see stuff
Last month, the Indian Computer Emergency with my own eyes, and then I go to
Response Team (CERT‑In) informed the Parliament report it on Twitter and see promot‑
that over 24 websites of central ministries, depart‑ ed tweets saying the opposite of
ments and state governments were hacked till May. what I saw. Twitter is taking money
IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in a written from Chinese propaganda outfits
reply in the Lok Sabha that some of these attacks and running these promoted tweets
were seen to be originating from a number of coun‑ against the top Hong Kong protest
tries, including China and Pakistan. hashtags," Pinboard tweeted.
"India needs to be more careful when it comes to Since June, Hong Kong has been
the security of their websites and critical infrastruc‑ rocked by a wave of protests
ture," the Kaspersky executive cautioned. because of the extradition bill,
which would have enabled
fugitives to be extradited
from Hong Kong to main‑
land China.
Though the bill has been
declared "dead" by the
city's top leader Carrie
Lam, the civil campaign against it
has since morphed into a broader
movement seeking to reverse a gen‑
eral decline in freedom and investi‑
gate police brutality. The "ads have
highlighted alleged supporters of
the Chinese 'motherland' and have
pointed out Hong Kong's economic
troubles from earlier in the year,"
the report said. Twitter was yet to
issue a statement.
The Chinese government has
been clamping down on those who
voice dissent on Twitter, even
though the service is blocked
beyond Hong Kong.
28 August 24-30, 2019 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Humor with Melvin Durai

Money‑saving tips
that really work!
E
veryoneʼs offering money‑saving tips other.) He or she buys all sorts of luxury
these days, trying to help people sur‑ items with the credit card, whereas you use
vive the economic downturn. It does‑ it only for essential items, such as wool paja‑
nʼt take much to save a few bucks here and mas for the dog. It might be time to get a
there, even if youʼre already scrimping, even divorce̶from your credit card.
if you order the 3. Find vacations on the
“short” cappuc‑ Internet. Letʼs face it: itʼs
cino at Starbucks expensive to travel abroad
and have reduced your and, even if you can afford
cable TV package to only 380 it, do you really want to
channels. Anyone whoʼs spend half your vacation

BEST really serious about sav‑

ing money needs to fol‑
going throug h airport
security? T hankfully,

RATE low Melvinʼs canʼt‑miss

tips:
thereʼs an easy solution.
Just travel anywhere in the

FOR 1. Be more religious.

Yes, going to the tem‑
world̶Tahiti, Jamaica,
Hawaii̶by gazing at your

INDIA ple, gurudwara, mosque

or church can save you
Facebook friendsʼ vacation
pics. Put your face right

AND money. How? We ll,

many of these religious
against the computer screen
and youʼll almost feel your‑

PAKISTAN institutions of fer you

something you canʼt usually find
anywhere else: FREE FOOD! Entire meals are
served at many temples, gurudwaras and
New York Head Quarter mosques, while snacks are commonplace at
churches.
422‑S Broadway
Iʼm not suggesting, of course, that you go
HICKSVILLE there just to eat. You can also get something
NY 11801 to drink. But if the minister asks if you want
to be “filled with the spirit,” itʼs probably not
516‑827‑1010 a good idea to say, “No, thanks. Iʼm driving.”
2. Donʼt pay interest on your credit card.
If youʼre buried in credit card debt, it might
be time to look in the mirror and accept that
thereʼs only one person to blame for the
mess youʼre in: your spouse. (Or significant
self there.
4. Cancel your gym membership. Does it
really make sense for you to spend two
hours lifting weights, sweating profusely
and not getting paid for it? Instead, head to
the airport or train station and get yourself
a job as a porter. Many companies, including
UPS, Wal‑Mart and Sears, of fer “lifting
opportunities,” though it might be a good
idea to stay away from shoplifting.
5. Take the bus or train to work and do
some reading. The first step is to buy a
monthly bus/train pass. The second step is
to cancel your newspaper subscription. Why
subscribe to the newspaper when you can
read it for free over someoneʼs shoulder?
6. Take advantage of telemarketers. If
you get lots of calls from telemarketers, you

Laughter is the Best Medicine need to do what I do: sell them stuf f. Itʼs
amazing how much you can sell if youʼre a
little forceful. Just ask Satwinder, the guy in
New Delhi who just bought 100 copies of
my novel Bala Takes the Plunge.
7. Do your own recycling. Donʼt throw out
By that fashion magazine̶pull out the glossy
Mahendra pages and use them to wrap small gifts.
Shah Donʼt throw out that worn boot̶fill it with
soil and grow a plant in it. Donʼt throw out
Mahendra Shah that old pair of underwear̶cut it into a
is an architect by fancy shape and use it as a doily.
education, 8. Donʼt play the lottery. Itʼs okay to buy a
entrepreneur by ticket now and then, but if youʼre plunking
profession, artist down 10 bucks a week, youʼre throwing
and humorist, your hard‑earned money away. Yes, people
cartoonist and do win the lottery, but you have a better
writer by hobby. chance of getting Justin Bieber to share nail‑
He has been polishing tips with you.
recording the 9. Think big. Donʼt buy a small bag of rice
plight of the when a big bag is more economical in the
immigrant long run. The best part is, once the bag is
Indians for the empty, you can recycle it. Just write “Gucci”
past many year on the side of it and use it for shopping.
in his cartoons. 10. Get to know your neighbors.
Hailing from Neighbors can save you a lot of money. In
Gujarat, he lives fact, if youʼre trying to buy a house, make
in Pittsburgh, sure you find one with a plumber living on
Pennsylvania. one side, an electrician on the other and a
carpenter across the street. Donʼt forget to
show them your appreciation with a special
gift, such as a nicely wrapped doily.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ASTROLOGY August 24-30, 2019 29

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899
psharma@premastrologer.com; w.premastrologer.com

AUGUST 24‑30, 2019

Aries: Investment in stocks & mutual
funds would help in earning profits.
You are likely find comfort in the
arms of romantic partner. Be ready to
travel with a challenge, new connections
will help you.
Your partnerʼs desire for an apartment
might lead to its destination. You succeed
in maintaining a distance from affairs that
donʼt concern you at all.
Taurus: Channelizing energy for
positive changes on health front
would immensely benefit you. The
coming week would require some urgent
& quick decisions to turn the tide in your
favor at professional front. Good time to
get involved into activities that interests
you. Make sure you do not overspend on
household luxuries. Donʼt give into unnec‑
essary demands of romantic partner.
Gemini: Crucial decisions regarding
job should be put of f for another
week. You need to remain calm &
tension‑free to enjoy a sound health. Take
a trip, as there is some place waiting for
you. It might be the right time to sale your
empty plot as property rates are at peak
this week.
You are likely to contemplate a new con‑
struction programme.
Cancer: You are likely to establish
yourself a good manager on man‑
aging people and situation without
any problem. A promising week is fore‑
seen to plan things for your progeny.
Improvement in finances is certain.
Partner brings immense romantic pleas‑
ure even if work pressure occupies your
mind Positive outlook impresses those
around you besides keeping you fit & fine.
Leo: To gain something we have to
lose something. This is the success
of maintaining relationship. Take
your parents into confidence regarding
your new projects and plans. Avoid over‑
spending on entertainment and luxuries.
Love and romantic encounter will keep
you in a cheerful state. Health will be fine
despite some mental pressures.
Virgo: Be careful with whom you
deal financially during this week. If
possible, give the gift of time to
beloved/lover.
Avoid disclosing personal secrets even to
your close relatives. Understand your
body and at the same time avoid the food
that does not go well with it to keep ail‑
ments a bay. Make sure you keep team
spirit going to achieve higher professional
goals.
Libra: Donʼt force your opinion on
others in the family. Your invest‑
ment on overseas plans might give
some impact on your bank balance. Be
prepared to say no to people who expect
too much in financial matters. You need to
hold romantic emotions and shouldnʼt do
anything making you repent later. Make
the best use of your energy to enjoy a
sound health.
Scorpio: Speculation coupled with
some unexpected gains improves
your financial health. Romance
rules heart & mind this week. Chances of
recovering from physical illness are on the
cards. Travel opportunities full of chal‑
lenges are often the beginning of great
enterprises. Being too choosy in investing
plans can lose the property you are
looking for.
Sagittarius: Avoid being volunteer
to overspend otherwise you will
have to come home empty pocket.
Use your discretion power in love this
week. Knowing your calories would enable
to keep yourself fit. If your family loves to
travel, then put together some ideas to
help you. Location is the key to any prop‑
erty you purchase, so go through it very
well.
Capricorn: Love comes your way as
friendship turns into romance.
Your confidence and energy will be
high this week. Destination with a great
deal is on your way, be ready for traveling.
Your investment plans are at full boom
and you might succeed in them. In the
company of friends you are likely to enjoy,
as many good things happen at a same
time.
Aquarius: Long‑term investment in
stocks & mutual funds will enable
to earn profits. Sudden romantic
encounter is foreseen this week. You need
to relax and get involved in hobbies that
you enjoy doing the most. You will be
highly benefited by making the fullest use
of communication skills and the ability to
handle any pressurized situation.
Pisces: Make sure you donʼt get sen‑
timental on lover/beloveds com‑
ments. Your energy level will be
high. The deals which you are looking for‑
ward might be delayed due to increase in
property rates. Use your strong determi‑
nation & decision‑making trait to face
unusual & challenging situations with
ease at professional front. It would be in
your interest if you avoid easily get friend‑
ly with others.

August 24, 2019 and peace. Be extra careful of your

Dominated by number 6 and the
planet Venus, you are attractive,
emotional, intelligent, creative,
trustworthy and very simple per‑
son. Your farsightedness and your
planning ability are your true
assets, but you need to check your
tendencies to behave timid and
moody at times.
This year you would see certain
changes in your career that would
oscillate your mood between
extreme happiness and some dis‑
pleasure. No matter what you do,
donʼt get into power struggle with
co‑workers and managers. Use tact
and diplomacy when handling diffi‑
cult issues and try to work towards
a compromise. Businessmen would
see their new plans and ventures
getting executed. Frequent jour‑
neys in‑between the year would
bring in pleasure and an opportuni‑
ty to establish new and important
contacts. T he months of July,
November and February will be
highly result oriented.
August 25, 2019
Influenced by number 7 and the
planet Neptune, you are ambitious,
independent, sincere and an ener‑
getic person. You are highly enter‑
prising and have an in‑built talent
to impress others, but you need to
check your tendency to behave
moody, reckless and impatient at
times.
This year your financial condition
would improve, as you would bene‑
fit from past investments. New
business ventures would prove
quite lucrative. Improved finances
will make you spend more on luxu‑
ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK
ries and other living comforts. You
would change your perception of
love this year, as you would tend to
be more secretive and keep many
things to yourself only. Your rela‑
tionship will lack the trust it nor‑
mally did, which might create prob‑
lems at times. Health would be
matter of concern, and preventive
medication should not be ignored
at any cost. The months of June,
September, December and
February will be important.
August 26, 2019
Ruled by number 8 and the plan‑
et Saturn, you are authoritative,
practical, systematic, original, and
highly disciplined person. You feel
very happy when you are close to
nature. You are very religious and
you take deep interest in spiritual‑
ism, but you need to check your
tendency to behave moody, stub‑
born and lazy at times.
T his is going to be a highly
rewarding period for women, as
there seems to be a promise of a
bright career prospect. You would
also improve your income and sav‑
ings, provided you are ready to
curb lavish expenses. This year
would also prove to be highly sig‑
nificant for students wanting to go
for higher education overseas, as
they would manage to obtain
admission in their desired college/
university despite tough competi‑
tion. Middle of the year taking care
of your health would be important,
especially for expecting mothers.
An eminent person would provide
new ideas and unconditional sup‑
port on your projects. The months
of June, October, January and April
will be eventful.
August 27, 2019
Influenced by number 9 and the
planet Mars, you are active, coura‑
geous, energetic, and enthusiastic
person. Your impressive personali‑
ty and your command over your
work do wonders for you, but you
need to control your tendency to
behave timid and indecisive at
times.
This promises to be a memorable
year bringing you prosperity and
good fortune. Your creative ideas
would flourish and you would be
highly appreciated for your efforts.
You would gain importance
amongst your colleagues because
of your improved skills and apti‑
tude. Participating in lectures and
seminars would bring you new
growth opportunities. This seems
to be a good period for new ven‑
tures and alliances, but speculation
needs to be done with extreme
care. T he months of July,
September, November and
February will be significant.
August 28, 2019
Influenced by number 1 and the
Sun, you are energetic, practical,
dignified, brilliant and highly sensi‑
tive person. You possess excellent
communication skills and you take
advantage of the given opportuni‑
ties, but you need to check your
tendency to behave spendthrift,
fickle minded and restless at times.
This coming year you would tend
to be highly adventurous and
would be taking major risks, but
you should avoid making any hasty
investment decisions otherwise
losses are certain. Legal and tax
matters would trouble you. Some
unexpected dispute or litigation
might also arise around the later
half of the year. Seek the best pro‑
fessional advice available before
making any decisions. It would be a
rather interesting year for young‑
sters. Exciting romance would lift
their spirits and gifts and presents
are almost certain. Some care is
needed towards your health. The
months of May, August, September
and December will be important.
August 29, 2019
Ruled by number 2 and the
Moon, you are highly creative,
practical, emotional, friendly, sim‑
ple and generous person. You enjoy
enormous respect at your work‑
place, but at the same time you
need to check your tendency to
behave introvert, selfish and jeal‑
ous at times.
This year will be highly beneficial
for those who are willing to take
investment and business risks.
Speculation in property and stocks
will bring in handsome results. This
year will be highly significant for
working and professional women,
as they will prosper in their respec‑
tive fields. New romance will be
exciting but short‑lived. Journey or
pilgrimage will provide comfort
jewe lry and expensive items.
Chances of overseas education for
few students who are looking for a
better career. The months of April,
July, September and November will
be important.
August 30, 2019
Dominated by number 3 and the
planet Jupiter. You are ambitious,
courageous, dignified, aggressive
and friendly. You are independent
by nature and thought and you
avoid any interference in your
work, but you also become a sub‑
ject of immense criticism because
of your tendency to behave stub‑
born and hot‑tempered at times.
This year gains from past invest‑
ments will see your financial posi‑
tion improve. New alliances and
projects would lift your confidence.
Bold decisions would be essential
at workplace. Despite minor dis‑
agreements at times with your sen‑
iors and colleagues your profes‑
sional graph would grow with suc‑
cess and achievements.
Expenditure on the renovation or
beautification of the house or on
purchase of luxuries seems high
later in the year. Property related
matters need to be dealt with
extreme caution. Your spouse
would be supportive to your con‑
cerns and provide you with love
and af fection. Health definitely
would require more attention,
especially for those suffering from
chronic ailments. Some auspicious
ceremonies and functions are likely
to be performed in the family. The
months of August, November and
March seem to be significant.
 30 August 24-30, 2019 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Ego - edging God out

By Sant Rajinder Singh
Ji Maharaj
O
ne of the subtlest and
trickiest blockages to
overcome is ego. Ego is
the mindʼs way of keeping us from
having contact with our spiritual
nature. Ego manifests in many
forms: pride of wealth, pride of
knowledge, pride of beauty and
pride of power. We may suffer
from the ego of wealth in which
we are proud of how much money
we have or our expensive posses‑
sions. We may have ego of knowl‑
edge in which we become proud of
how much we know or the number
of educational degrees we have.
We lack humility and think we are
the source of all knowledge and
look down on others who know
less than we do. There is also the
ego of beauty. We may flaunt our
(Image courtesy: desiseni.com)
looks to such a degree that we
make others who are not as beau‑
tiful feel inferior. We can become
an egoist when we talk too much
about ourselves or think too much
about ourselves.
Outer beauty fades with age. If
we do not have the beauty of spir‑
it, few will be attracted to our
outer beauty as wrinkles appear
on our face. Knowledge is also
temporary, for it changes every
year. What we learnt in the ele‑
mentary school maybe obsolete
today. Wealth can disappear with
the changes in the economy.
Stocks and bonds may lose value
or a serious illness may drain our
finances.
The harm caused by ego is that
it boosts up our mental and physi‑
cal attributes, worldly positions
and possessions while it negates
God, who is the true Giver of these
gifts. It causes us to forget our
true self and God. Rooting out ego
of life. Empowering our soul
Ego is the mind’s means we free ourselves from
reliance on outer sources of pride
way of keeping to make us happy. Rather, we live
us from having in a state of eternal happiness
with the state of our soul, because
contact with our it is one with the Lord.
It is said that among the ascetics
spiritual nature. and monks, the last enemy they
must conquer is the ego. They may
Ego manifests give up desire for material posses‑
in many forms: sions, they may give up lust,
anger, greed and attachment. But
pride of wealth,
if they pride themselves on giving
up these things, they are still
pride of caught in the net of ego. That is
how ego imperceptibly rears its
knowledge, pride ugly head. It is said by the mystics,
of beauty and “Where I am God is not. Where
God is I am not.” In Sikh scriptures
pride of power. it is written:
Where egoism exists, Thou are
takes understanding and a firm not experienced,
grip on the mind. If our attention Where Thou art, is not egoism.
is on the outer being, our person‑ You who are learned, expound in
ality, looks, mind, or possessions, your mind
then we are certainly not going to This inexpressible proposition.
be focusing on our soul. The soul (Adi Granth, Maru‑ki‑Var,M.1,
is the source of all beauty, wisdom, p1092)
and wealth, but we remain bereft If God and the soul are one,
of these gifts as long as we are there is no question of I and Thou.
filled with thoughts of our body Both are Thou. When we eliminate
and mind. ego‑‑‑‑ I‑ness is gone, and there is
Our soul is free of ego. Thus, it no separation between the soul
is free from fear of the vicissitudes and God.

TAKE AN INNER VOYAGE Yoga & meditation

T
here are many forms of yoga. Some forms of

A
vacation offers a chance to take
a break from the stresses of
daily living. We usually seek
places that are relaxing, enjoyable, and
beautiful. Yet going on an outer vaca‑
tion is often stressful. We have to earn
money for the trip; book tickets; under‑
go the rigors of travel, whether by
road, train, bus, or air; find the right
accommodations and food service; and
face unexpected inclement weather.
Often, we return from a vacation more
exhausted than we had left.
What if we could experience a vaca‑
tion that did not cost anything and in
which we could instantly travel to and
experience unimaginable vistas more
beautiful than anything ever seen in
this world? What if that vacation filled
us with relaxation of our body, mind,
and spirit, and had the added benefit of
putting us into the states of tremen‑
dous love, joy and bliss? What if we
could tap into a restful peace that
washed away our troubles and stayed
with us even when we returned from
the journey? What if we could take this
trip anytime we wanted, as many times
as we wished, by just closing our eyes?
This is not science fiction. This jour‑
ney is not imaginary. Many enlight‑
ened beings, saints, mystics, and spiri‑
tual masters have taken this inner voy‑
age. Through the ages, the spiritual
journey was largely a mystery to the
masses, but was known to the disciples
through an oral tradition whereby
Many enlightened beings, saints, mystics, and
spiritual masters have taken this inner voyage.
Masters passed on the travel directions
for this journey. This experience is
still available today to all who want to
undertake this incredible voyage. The
way within is through meditation.
Meditation is the art of inverting our
attention from the world outside to
that within. Sightseeing in the physical
(Image courtesy:
pinterest.com)
world may attract our senses with
interesting and beautiful sights,
sounds, smells, tastes, and feelings. Yet
inner sightseeing dazzles us. The inner
voyage thrills our soul with bliss, love
and joy that far surpass any sensory
delights experienced in this physical
world.
yoga deal with controlling the bodily functions.
In our body we have two currents. We have the
motor currents and the sensory currents flowing
through our bodies. The motor currents keep us alive,
by controlling our involuntarily body functions, such
as the growth of our nails and hair, our breathing, and
our blood circulation. In meditation on the inner
Light and Sound, one does not practice the control of
the motor currents for transcending the body. The
motor currents are allowed to go on by themselves so
that the process by which we survive in this world is
not tampered with. Instead, we withdraw the sensory
currents. The sensory currents give us sensation in
the body. It is the sensory currents which make us
aware of the sense of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and
touch. If we withdraw our sensory currents from the
outside world, and collect them at the eye‑focus, we
will be able to travel to the realms within.
Meditation is, in reality, a process of concentration.
It is so simple and natural that it can be practiced by
a young child or the elderly, by a healthy person or
someone with a physical disability.
Meditation does not require any asanas or difficult
postures or any rigorous physical activity. It is a non‑
denominational technique that has been practiced by
people of all religions and faiths, cultures, and back‑
grounds, as a science. It is open to one and all, and
has been offered as a free gift by the spiritual
Masters who have come throughout the ages. It is up
to us whether we wish to merely read about the
realms beyond, or experience them. The saints tell us
that being made of matter, the physical body deterio‑
rates, decays, and is finally destroyed. But our true
self, which is our spirit or soul, is eternal. It lives on
and on. By connecting with our soul, we will have
access to the answers of what awaits us beyond.
(www.sos.org)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info August 24-30, 2019
TheSouthAsianTimes.info August 24-30, 2019

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