Marriage a Contract in Muslim Law, Father-in-law Has No Locus to File Habeas Corpus Plea: Allahabad HC

New Age Islam News Bureau

08 June 2023

 

Photo: Law Beat

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India

• Gyanvapi Mosque Hindu Petitioner Writes to President, Seeks Approval for Euthanasia

• NIA Quizzes Jammu and Kashmir's Top Islamic Scholar, Mir Qasmi, In an Alleged Terror-Funding Case

• Allahabad HC Denies Pre-Arrest Bail to Muslim Scholar for Issuing Fatwa to Kill Jitendra • Narayan Singh Tyagi Formerly Known As Waseem Rizvi

• DNA Verified: False Communal Twist In Odisha Train Accident? Viral Post Claims Station Master Is Muslim; Know Truth

• MP: Labourers from Bengal taken to police station on suspicion of being Rohingya Muslims

• Assam: Govt can't shut down private Madrasas, says AIUDF MLA Rafidul Islam

• Man arrested for rape and abduction of minor girl in Moradabad, Bajrang Dal alleges ‘love jihad’

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Pakistan

• Pakistan, China, Iran hold maiden talks on fighting terrorism

• 2 policemen martyred, security guard wounded by gunmen in Swat’s Mingora

• Imran to appear before IHC, anti-terrorism court in multiple cases today

• Army takes aim at ‘planners’ of May 9 riots

• Tareen announces Istehkaam-e-Pakistan Party

• PM reiterates Pakistan’s desire to further cement bilateral cooperation with Turkiye

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South Asia

• Casualties Reported after Explosion Rocks Afghanistan’s Faizabad Mosque

• We Must Develop Our Islamic and Afghan Culture, to Save Youths for Foreign Culture: Haqqani

• Medicine One of Most Fundamental Issues In the Country: Hanafi

• Islamic Development Bank pledges $8.1 million to help Afghanistan

• Islamic Emirate Pledged to Serve the People: Hanaif

• Two Bangladeshi women detained from MBB Airport in Tripura

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North America

• Blinken: Islamic State Fight ‘Not Yet Done’

• UN investigators compile evidence on chemical weapons use by Islamic State extremists in Iraq

• Montgomery County Councilmember: Muslim Families onthe Same Side as White Supremacists On LGBT In School

• ‘Struggling’ community can’t meet mosque security needs, local imam says

• US: Muslim parents protest losing right to opt out of LGBTQ school books

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Africa

• Explore Intellectual Energies of Youth to Grow Nigeria, Muslim Youths Tell Tinubu

• I Don’t Belong to Any Islamic Radical Sect, Abass Replies Opponents

• Politicians set Muslims, Christians against one another in Kaduna – Shehu Sani

• Kano man docked for allegedly stealing speaker from mosque

• Muslim-Muslim Ticket Is Fraud, Says Northern Forum Spokesman

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Arab World

• Saudi Arabia Wins UN World Tourism Organization Executive Council Seat

• Kuwait votes in opposition-led parliament, one woman elected

• Saudi Arabia highlights its tech achievements at Global Technology Forum in Paris

• Saudi Arabia makes final preparations for 10th Arab-China Business Conference

• Saudi Arabia condemns storming, vandalizing of its embassy in Sudan

• Islamic Affairs Ministry Concludes Holy Quran Exhibition in Brazil

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Mideast

• Shiite Duo, Led By Hezbollah, Pressure Tactics in Presidential Race against Jihad Azour

• Israeli forces raid mosque near Nablus

• Israeli army mounts rare raid into Palestinian city of Ramallah, clashes ensue

• Macron names French ex-minister Lebanon special envoy

• UN to launch central archives of Islamic State crimes in Iraq

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Southeast Asia

• Man Charged With Insulting God, Islam and Prophet on Facebook

• PAS MP Wants Interpretation Acts Amended To Include Explanation on Use of ‘Allah’

• Higher income can be earned ‘the halal way’, Anthony Loke tells civil servants

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Europe

• The Dundee College Where Western and Islamic Worlds Meet Is Recruiting More Local Students

• 14 yr old Muslim boy dies after unexplained ‘incident’ at Scottish school

• Southampton Muslim centre wins approval despite objections

• Pentagon defends LGBT priorities

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL:  https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/marriage-muslim-law-habeas-corpus/d/129949

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Marriage a Contract in Muslim Law, Father-in-law Has No Locus to File Habeas Corpus Plea: Allahabad HC

 

Photo: Law Beat

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JUNE 07, 2023

The Allahabad High Court recently observed that a Muslim father-in-law has no locus to file a habeas corpus petition for his daughter-in-law.

The single judge bench of Justice Shamim Ahmed said marriage is a contract as per Muslim law where the husband is bound to give protection and shelter to his wife and if there is any trouble, he has remedies to approach appropriate forums but not the father-in-law as he has no locus at all.

In the case at hand, a habeas corpus petition had been filed by a Muslim man alleging that his daughter-in-law had been detained by her own parents without any reason since 2021 and they were not allowing her to go to her matrimonial home.

Therefore, he sought the court’s direction to free his daughter-in-law from the alleged illegal custody of her own parent.

Through the petition, the court was also informed that at present, the husband of the detenue was living in Kuwait for earning his livelihood.

The plea was opposed by the government counsel who submitted that since the plea had been filed by the father-in-law of the detenue, not her husband, thus, it was not maintainable.

The single judge bench opined that since it had been told that after the marriage the husband of the detenue was living and earning in Kuwait and detenue was living with her parents thus, it could not be said that she was in illegal detention.

“It may be possible that detenue herself does not want to go to her matrimonial house when her husband is not living there," said the court.

Therefore, while stating that the father-in-law had no locus to file the present plea, the court disposed of the same.

Source: news18.com

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https://www.news18.com/india/marriage-a-contract-in-muslim-law-father-in-law-has-no-locus-to-file-habeas-corpus-plea-allahabad-hc-8021395.html

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“We Will Not Forget, We Will Not Forgive”: Message for Imran Khan Former Pakistan PM From the Army’s High Command

 

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party activists and supporters of former Pakistan´s Prime Minister Imran clash with police during a protest outside the police headquarters where Khan is in custody, in Islamabad on May 10, 2023. —AFP

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June 08, 2023

ISLAMABAD: It’s very rare to see such a strong statement from the Army’s high command as was issued on Wednesday by the ISPR. “We will not forget, we will not forgive” -- the press release does not exactly say so but it’s a clear message for PTI Chairman Imran Khan. After a three-day-long Formation Commanders Conference, the press release issued made it clear to all and sundry that the Army will neither forget the May 9 black day nor forgive anyone involved, whether planner, abettor or attacker. The military commanders have also conveyed that they will not tolerate anyone trying to save those involved in the May 9 attacks. To be precise, they said, “Forum also resolved that endeavours by any quarter to create obstructions and stymie the conclusive defeat of ill-design of inimical forces will be dealt with an iron hand.” It’s a message for IK’s facilitators in the judiciary, suggested a senior journalist in a TV talk show on Wednesday night. The Army is determined not to compromise on the trial of all those who had attacked the military installations, buildings, symbols, etc, under the Army Act and Official Secrets Act. Similarly, no propaganda, no campaign of human rights violation “to create a smokescreen” for hiding “the ugly faces” of all involved can save the culprits from punishment. What should now seriously alarm the PTI top leadership, including Imran Khan, is that the time appears to be up for “planners” and “masterminds” of the May 9 attack.

The ISPR press release warned, “It has been further stressed that, while the legal trials of perpetrators and instigators have commenced, it is time that noose of law is also tightened around the planners and masterminds who mounted the hate ripened and politically driven rebellion against the state and state institutions to achieve their nefarious design of creating chaos in the country.” Some senior ministers of the present government have already said that PTI Chairman Imran Khan may be tried under the Army Act because of his alleged planning of May 9 attacks. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also said more than once that Imran Khan had instigated his followers to create such a mayhem on May 9.

After his removal from the prime minister’s office, Imran Khan had made the blunder by picking the Army as his enemy, levelling all kinds of allegations against top military men and letting his social media run innumerable campaigns against the institution and its top command. More seriously, Khan misjudged and miscalculated the fallouts of the May 9 attack on the Pakistan Army. He avoided condemning the attack, tried to shift responsibility on others, came up with conspiracy theories and then again started attacking the Army and its chief.

Soon after May 9, everyone started assessing that Imran Khan’s politics is over, at least for the next few years. But his post-May 9 statements and allegations against the military and Army chief seem to have sealed his political future. Imran has already lost dozens of his party leaders. He is bound to lose more after the latest announcement from the ISPR. Khan is now using all his connections abroad to invite the US pressure on Pakistan and Pakistan Army to rescue him from the situation he has landed himself in because of his own doings. To his bad luck, such campaign is also contributing against him because of the nature of sanctions and pressures his party men are seeking against Pakistan and Pakistan Army from Washington.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1078052-situationer-we-will-not-forget-we-will-not-forgive-message-for-imran

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Blast Tears through Mosque at Funeral of Deputy Governor in Northern Afghanistan

 

The deputy governor of Afghanistan’s northern Badakhshan province was killed by a car bomb on Tuesday. (AFP file photo)

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June 8, 2023

KABUL, June 8 (Reuters) - An explosion took place inside a mosque in northern Afghanistan on Thursday during the funeral of the provincial deputy governor who was killed in an attack this week, a provincial official said.

Mahzudeen Ahmadi, the head of the information office of northern Badakshan province, said the explosion had caused casualties but did not clarify how many. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for a car bomb on Tuesday that killed the deputy governor.

Source: reuters.com

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https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/blast-tears-through-mosque-funeral-deputy-governor-northern-afghanistan-2023-06-08/?rpc=401&

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US Muslim Group, CAIR, Calls On Congress To Scrap Indian Prime Minister's Address

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, United States Congress at U.S. Capitol in Washington, USA in June, 2016. (Samuel Corum - Anadolu Agency)

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08.06.2023

WASHINGTON

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) urged leaders of the US Congress on Wednesday to cancel Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address in June.

Modi's address "sends the message that repressing Christians, Muslims, Dalits, Sikhs and other faith minorities is not an issue for the U.S. Congress," said CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw in a letter sent to the Congressional leaders.

They include Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

"Modi’s anti-democratic policies, such as smothering critical journalism, are also the opposite of what the U.S. Congress should be seen as celebrating. If the Joint Meeting occurs, we plan to urge Members to boycott it," said McCaw.

The US's largest Muslim advocacy group also demanded that India be designated a Country of Particular Concern due to the Modi government’s alleged human rights abuses of Christians, Muslims, Dalits, Sikhs and other faith minorities.

Meanwhile, CAIR also called on the Biden administration to cancel a planned state dinner honoring Modi.

In a letter to the Indian prime minister in early June, McCarthy asked Modi to address Congress on June 22, saying "you will have the opportunity to share your vision for India's future and speak to the global challenges our countries both face."

Modi's visit to Washington will mark his first since Biden assumed office in January 2021. Just two other world leaders have been granted state visits by Biden -- French President Emmanuel Macron in December and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in April

Source: aa.com.tr

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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/us-muslim-group-calls-on-congress-to-scrap-indian-prime-ministers-address/2917100#

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International Union for Muslim Scholars Urge Release Of Rached Ghannouchi, Political Prisoners in Tunisia

 

Tunisian Parliament Speaker Rashid Ghannouchi in Tunis, Tunisia on 4 October 2019 [Yassine Gaidi/Anadolu Agency]

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07.06.2023

ANKARA

A group of Muslim scholars urged authorities Wednesday to release former Tunisian parliament Speaker Rached Ghannouchi and political prisoners from jail.

The International Union for Muslim Scholars (IUMS) said individual and collective rights are the basics of Islamic Sharia and a cornerstone in developing the Muslims nation.

It urged Muslim scholars worldwide to act urgently to lift the injustice against Ghannouchi and other political prisoners in Tunisia.

A Tunisian court sentenced Ghannouchi, who is one of the main opponents of President Kais Saied, to one year in prison on May 15, on terrorism-related charges, after he was arrested April 17 on accusations of plotting against state security.

The sentence came amid a Tunisian campaign against critics of Saied, accusing them of being part of a conspiracy against state security.

Ghannouchi is among dozens of political opponents of the president, including former top officials and business figures, who have been arrested since February, drawing international concern.

Ghannouchi served as parliament speaker whose party, Ennahdha, was the largest before it was dissolved by Saied in July 2021, after which he ousted the government.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar

Source: aa.com.tr

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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/muslim-scholars-urge-release-of-rached-ghannouchi-political-prisoners-in-tunisia/2916935

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 India

Gyanvapi Mosque Hindu Petitioner Writes ToPresident, Seeks Approval For Euthanasia

Jun 08, 2023

On May 23, the Varanasi district court ordered that all 7 cases related to the Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case be consolidated and heard together.

Rakhi Singh, the main plaintiff demanding the right of daily worship inside the Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, wrote to President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday, alleging that her fellow four petitioners in the case and their lawyers spread false propaganda against her, and adding that she was “considering euthanasia” due to mental pressure.

Singh, along with four other Hindu women plaintiffs, had filed the case in the court of the civil judge (senior division) Varanasi in August 2021, seeking the right to daily worship at Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal in the Gyanvapi mosque complex.

The case is currently being heard in the Varanasi district court.

“In the case, my associates, including Lakshmi Devi, Sita Sahu, Manju Vyas, Rekha Pathak, along with (senior) advocate Harishankar Jain, his son advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain and their few colleagues, did a false propaganda and defamed me and my uncle and aunt Jitendra Singh Visen and Kiran Singh in May 2022,” Rakhi Singh alleged in the letter.

Singh alleged that they spread a rumour that she was withdrawing the case, while “neither any such statement or information was issued from my side nor my uncle Jitendra Singh Visen, pleader on my behalf in the said case, issued any such information.”

“Thus, the entire Hindu society has been raised against me and my family by creating a confusion about us in the entire country due to which I and the entire family of Visenji have come under a lot of mental pressure,” she wrote.

“Therefore, you are requested to grant me the permission of euthanasia and pave the way to get rid of this immense mental pain and agony so that I can attain ultimate peace by sleeping eternally. I will wait for your reply till 9th June 2023 at 9:00 am,” the letter, seen by HT, said.

“If no order comes from you, then whatever decision will be taken after that will be my own,” the letter concluded.

This is the second time that Singh has publicly aired differences with the other plaintiffs. In September 2022, she had also opposed a petition for carbon dating of a disputed structure found inside the Gyanvapi mosque The hindu side claims its a shivling while the Muslim side says its part of an ablution tank.

Senior advocate Harishankar Jain, who represents four Hindu women plaintiffs , dismissed the allegations. “We are contesting the Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi and other related cases with full dedication. All allegations are baseless. I don’t want to waste my energy and time by reacting to baseless allegations,” he said.

One of the Hindu women plaintiffs, Rekha Pathak, said, “We are contesting the case consistently. We pray that we get the desired results. Our total focus is on our case. The allegations by Rakhi Singh are false.”

On May 23, the Varanasi district court ordered that all seven cases of the same nature related to the Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case be consolidated and heard together, with Shringar Gauri-Gyanvapi case as the leading case. On June 4, Visen announced that him and his family were separating themselves from all cases related to the Gynavapi complex in Varanasi, citing “lack of resources’ ‘ and alleged “harassment’ ‘ from various quarters.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/gyanvapi-petitioner-writes-to-president-seeks-approval-for-euthanasia-101686166257355.html

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NIA Quizzes Jammu and Kashmir's Top Islamic Scholar, Mir Qasmi, In an Alleged Terror-Funding Case

Muzaffar Raina Srinagar

08.06.23

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday questioned the head of Kashmir’s largest Islamic seminary in an alleged terror-funding case.

Officials said a summons was issued to Maulana Rehmatullah Mir Qasmi, who heads the Bandipore-based Darul Uloom Raheemiyah, on Monday regarding the raising of funds in Jammu and Kashmir and using them for “unlawful activities”.

“Maulana sahab stayed at the NIA office in Srinagar from 11am to 4pm. He faced questioning for hours and has since returned to Darul Uloom,” an aide of Qasmi told The Telegraph.

Sources said Qasmi’s home was raided last year by the NIA but the agency unusually chose not to publicise it because of the sensitives involved. Although he was formally summoned this time, no statement about the questioning was issued.

Raheemiyah is not only the biggest Islamic seminary in Kashmir but is also linked to the Deoband, which has a history of supporting Indian nationalism.

The NIA and other agencies have been relentlessly targeting people that they claim are involved in anti-national activities. They have arrested or raided homes or institutions of Islamic figures from different schools of thought — including the Jamat-e-Islami, Ahle Hadees or Barelvis.

Officials said Qasmi was questioned in connection with the alleged funding activities of Rajouri-based Al Huda Education Trust. The trust has come under scrutiny for its “suspicious” financial activities.

However, sources close to Qasmi claim he is being targeted for opposing some of the government’s “pro Hindutva” policies.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/national-investigation-agency-quizzes-jammu-and-kashmirs-top-islamic-scholar/cid/1943209

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Allahabad HC Denies Pre-Arrest Bail to Muslim Scholar for Issuing Fatwa to Kill Jitendra Narayan Singh Tyagi Formerly Known As Waseem Rizvi

JUNE 07, 2023

The Allahabad High Court recently denied anticipatory bail to a Muslim scholar accused of issuing a fatwa to kill Jitendra Narayan Singh Tyagi formerly known as Waseem Rizvi.

An FIR had been registered by Tyagi on March 18 this year alleging that Maulana Syed Mohammad Shabibul Husaini had given a statement on a channel on YouTube that Tyagi’s killing is desirable while referring to the fatwa issued against the author Salman Rushdie.

Tyagi had alleged that since he had changed his religion and accepted Sanatan Dharma, he had been repetitively getting threats of life, and after the aforesaid video was uploaded on YouTube, he was again being threatened.

Seeking a pre-arrest bail, the counsel for Maulana Husaini submitted that he is a scholar of the Shia community only concerned with academics.

The counsel contended that the interview in question was taken when Husaini was returning after finishing academic activities in New Delhi and he had replied to certain questions asked by a journalist regarding Tyagi.

The counsel stressed that the Maulana had not issued a fatwa as he has no authority to do so rather he had merely answered some questions in light ‘the provisions/sermon of the Holy Quran and Islamic jurisprudence’.

The court took note of the transcript of Maulana Husaini’s interview held on YouTube. It further observed that the meaning and purport of the interview was that Islam has supremacy over all, and it is a religion, which does not tolerate, nor accept.

The court pointed out that as per the transcript of Maulana Husaini’s interview, he had stated that the punishment for Murtad Fitri (one who despite being born to Muslim parents, rebels against Islam and becomes a Kafir) is only murder and no-one has the right to forgive him.

Further, the court highlighted that in the interview, Maulana Husaini had also reinforced his stand with the fatwa issued by Imam Khomeini to kill author Rushdie.

He justified the murder of Wasim Rizvi since he was a Muslim but adopted the Kufr (not believing in Allah), the court stated.

Moreover, the court expressed concern over the fact that in the affidavit, Maulana Husaini had tried to justify his statements made in the interview.

“…the applicant has justified his statements and has stated on oath that ‘he had given the statement according to Islamic Jurisprudence (Shia-Jafri) based on many books, wherein it is written that according to Jafri or Imami school, the male apostates must be executed, while female apostates must be held in solitary confinement until they repent and return to Islam. Apostasy from Islam is considered a crime," noted the court.

Importantly, the court pointed out that though it had been claimed by Maulana Husaini that he had only referred to the provisions/sermon of the Holy Quran and Islamic jurisprudence, he did not refer to a single verse specifically.

Source: news18.com

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https://www.news18.com/india/allahabad-hc-denies-pre-arrest-bail-to-muslim-scholar-for-allegedly-issuing-fatwa-over-religious-conversion-8021479.html

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DNA Verified: False communal twist in Odisha train accident? Viral post claims station master is Muslim; know truth

Jun 07, 2023

After the Odisha train accident claimed the lives of over 275 people, a false communal angle is being implemented to the tragic mishap. As of now, over 1000 people have suffered injuries in the accident, and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a probe in this regard.

Now, a viral post on social media has claimed that the Odisha train accident was a “planned conspiracy” by another community. The post claims that the station master near to where the accident happened was a Muslim man, and has been absconding ever since.

According to the post on the Odisha train accident, the name of station master who was present near the crash site is named Mohammed Sharif Ahmed. The post claims that he has been absconding since CBI took over the investigation of the train accident.

The post, which is going viral on Twitter, alleges a conspiracy by a certain community in the train accident near the Balasore district of Odisha, which claimed hundreds of lives. However, these claims are completely false.

Fact Check: Odisha station master was not a Muslim man

Despite the viral claim on the Odisha train accident, the station master near the accident site was not a Muslim man. According to PTI reports and the news report of India Today, the name of the station master near the accident is named SB Mohanty.

The video uploaded by India Today says that the station master has been removed from duty after the Odisha train mishap, and an inquiry has been launched against him. The current station master can be seen speaking in the video, saying that Mohanty was not at fault for the same.

There are many station masters who have been assigned to the Bahanaga railway station near the Odisha train crash site, but SB Mohanty was the one present at the station at the time of the crash.

Further, the CBI has not termed Mohanty responsible for the Coromandel Express train accident in any way till now.

Source: dnaindia.com

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https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-dna-verified-false-communal-twist-in-odisha-train-accident-viral-post-claims-station-master-is-muslim-3046504

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MP: Labourers from Bengal taken to police station on suspicion of being Rohingya Muslims

07.06.23

A group of labourers from West Bengal was taken to a police station here after some right-wing organizations suspected them of being "Rohingya Muslims", an official said on Wednesday.

They were allowed to go upon verification of documents, she said.

"On a complaint by some organisations, we brought some 20 people from a place near Muktidham crematorium in Chhota Bangarda area to the police station last night," said Kalpana Chauhan, in-charge of Aerodrome police station.

Police checked their identity documents and collected photocopies of their Aadhaar cards, she told PTI.

"On verification, they were found to be labourers from West Bengal. They were allowed to go last night itself," she added.

Police did not find anything objectionable in their possession, the police official said, adding that a local contractor had employed them for a municipal sewage line work in Chhota Bangarda area.

They were initially living on the crematorium premises, but when some organizations objected, the contractor shifted them elsewhere, the official said.

Tannu Sharma, local convenor of the Bajrang Dal, stated in a press release on Wednesday that they received information from local people that 15 to 20 "anti-social elements" were staying in the crematorium premises.

They were suspected to be "Rohingya Muslims" staying in the crematorium complex "secretly" without informing the nearby police station and police should carry out detailed investigation, he demanded.

Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by The Telegraph Online staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/mp-labourers-from-west-bengal-taken-to-police-station-on-suspicion-of-being-rohingya-muslims/cid/1943100

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Assam: Govt can't shut down private Madrasas, says AIUDF MLA Rafidul Islam

Jun 07, 2023

Guwahati (Assam) [India], June 7 (ANI): All India United Democratic Front (/topic/all-india-united-democratic-front) (AIUDF (/topic/aiudf)) MLA and party General Secretary Rafiqul Islam said that the Assam government can't shut down private Madrasas in the state.

He said that the private Madrasas in Assam are working with permission and based on the rights given by the Constitution of India to the Minority people.

"The Assam government can't shut down these private Madrasas," Rafiqul Islam said. Earlier, the Assam government shut down more than 600 state-run Madrasas in the state.

There are more than 3000 registered and unregistered private Madrasas that are still running in the state The AIUDF (/topic/aiudf) MLA said that the Assam Chief Minister talks about it only when he's outside the state.

"He talked about this in Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, but not in Assam. The Assam Chief Minister is also a lawyer and he knows that the Constitution of India has given the rights to the Minority to establish private Madrasas and impart religious education and the Constitution of India has allowed this. By following this, the Minority people of the state have established private Madrasas and are running these at their own cost, not taking any help from the government. The government can't shut down these Madrasas," Rafiqul Islam said.

The AIUDF (/topic/aiudf) MLA also said that, if there is any suggestion to develop, or modernize it, then they will accept it.

"The Chief Minister can also give suggestions, but he has not any right to shut it down. By making such statements, he is trying to please some people. They are thinking that they will get votes by making such type of statements, but they will not get benefits. They will only be harmed by making such statements. People will not fall into their trap. These Madrasas are running under the law, rights given by the Constitution of India. They can't shut down it," Rafiqul Islam said. (ANI)

Source: aninews.in

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https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/assam-govt-cant-shut-down-private-madrasas-says-aiudf-mla-rafidul-islam20230607153404/

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Man arrested for rape and abduction of minor girl in Moradabad, Bajrang Dal alleges ‘love jihad’

The police arrested the accused after the girl's family complained that she had been missing since May 29. Bajrang Dal members rushed to the area police station soon after the arrest.

Written by Amit Sharma

June 7, 2023

love-jihadSoon after the arrest of the accused, Bajrang Dal members rushed to the area police station, terming the incident a case of ‘love jihad’ and demanding strict action against the man. (Representational)

The Moradabad police in Uttar Pradesh Tuesday arrested a 24-year-old Muslim man for allegedly abducting and raping a 17-year-old Hindu girl.

Soon after the arrest of the accused, Bajrang Dal members rushed to the area police station, terming the incident a case of ‘love jihad’ and demanding strict action against the man.

The police said the girl’s mother complained Monday, stating that her daughter had been missing since May 29. They said within 12 hours of registering a First Information Report (FIR), they arrested the accused and handed over the Class 12 student to her family.

“The family members had made their own efforts to trace the girl for nearly a week before registering the complaint. Tracing the location of the last call in the girl’s mobile number, we nabbed the accused and rescued her,” Moradabad SP Akhilesh Bhadauria said.

He said the police charged the accused, who used to run a general store near the girl’s house, with rape and under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.

Bajrang Dal district unit chief Rohan Saxena, who led the group which thronged the police station, said, “The accused took a cue from the recently released movie Kerala Story. He first asked his younger sister to have a friendship with the girl and then abducted her. He was also putting her under pressure to marry him after embracing Islam. Such incidents have risen manifold in recent times. We request the Modi government to bring out a tough law to deal with such ‘love jihad’ cases,” said Saxena.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/moradabd-minor-rape-abduction-bajrang-dal-love-jihad-8650234/

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Pakistan

 

Pakistan, China, Iran hold maiden talks on fighting terrorism

June 07, 2023

Pakistan, China and Iran on Wednesday held the first meeting of “Trilateral Consultation on counter-terrorism and security” in the Chinese capital Beijing, announced the Foreign Office spokesperson.

The Pakistani side was represented by Director General (Counter-Terrorism) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Abdul Hameed, the Chinese side was led by Director General of the Department of External Security Affairs at the Chinese Foreign Ministry Bai Tian, and the Irani side was led by Assistant to the Foreign Minister and Director General of South Asia at the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Seyed Rasoul Mosavi.

As per the spokesperson, the delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region.

“Based on the outcome of these consultations, they decided to institutionalise the Trilateral Consultations on counter-terrorism and security for which further details will be worked out,” said the spokesperson.

Later, DG Hameed and DG Mosavi also called on Assistant Foreign Minister of China Nong Rong.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1078024-pakistan-china-iran-hold-maiden-talks-on-fighting-terrorism

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2 policemen martyred, security guard wounded by gunmen in Swat’s Mingora

June 8, 2023

Two police constables were martyred while one security guard was critically injured on Thursday when gunmen opened indiscriminate fire near the Sabzi Mandi area of Swat’s Mingora city, an official said.

According to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Public Relations Officer (PRO) Moin Fayaz, the policemen were on routine duty near the Sabzi Mandi area in Mingora when a few unidentified assailants opened fire at them.

Both policemen — Umra Khan and Ashraf Ali — embraced martyrdom on the spot while a security guard of a bank was injured, Fayaz added.

The official further said the armed men fled the scene, following which the police surrounded the area and launched a search operation to find them.

Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Safiullah told Dawn.com that a search operation was under way to find the armed men who had fled the scene.

The KP police also shared the incident’s details in a tweet.

A day ago, a policeman had sustained injuries when militants opened fire on the vehicle of Kulachi Deputy Superintendent of Police Rashid Khan in Dera Ismail Khan.

The same day, unknown attackers had opened fire at the vehicle of DPO Abdur Rauf Babar Qaiserani in the Garah Guldad area of the Kulachi tehsil as well. However, no casualties or injuries were reported while the attackers fled the scene.

Also on Wednesday, the Peshawar police repulsed a midnight militant attack on the Achini post in the Sarband area on the outskirts of the provincial capital.

Increase in terror attacks

Pakistan has seen an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year.

A recent report revealed that the number of terrorist attacks across the country has seen a phenomenal surge of 73 per cent during the first 21 months since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan, compared to the corresponding period before their takeover.

In his maiden press briefing in April, ISPR Director General Maj Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry had said that at least 293 people were martyred and 521 were injured in 436 terrorist incidents over the past year.

In KP, 192 people were martyred in 219 terror activities, while 80 people lost lives in 206 incidents in Balochistan, 14 people in five attacks in Punjab, and seven in six terrorism incidents across Sindh.

The DG ISPR had also said that overall 137 security personnel were martyred and 117 injured in anti-terror operations in the ongoing year.

Source: dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1758611/2-policemen-martyred-security-guard-wounded-by-gunmen-in-swats-mingora

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Imran to appear before IHC, anti-terrorism court in multiple cases today

June 8, 2023

In a video posted on PTI’s official Twitter account, the former prime minister could be seen departing from his Lahore residence in a black SUV along with his security personnel.

Amid a tight schedule today, Imran will appear before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a case linked to his appeal against the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) move to initiate criminal proceedings against him in the Toshakhana reference.

The Toshakhana is a department responsible for storing gifts and other precious items given by foreign officials to Pakistani public officials and is under the control of the Cabinet Division.

The reference alleges that Imran had “deliberately concealed” details of the gifts he retained from the Toshaskhana — a repository where presents handed to government officials from foreign officials are kept — during his time as the prime minister and proceeds from their reported sales.

Imran has faced a number of legal issues over his retention of gifts. The issue also led to his disqualification by the electoral body in the past. Last month, the PTI chief was indicted in the case.

Additionally, Imran will make an appearance before a district court today at the Federal Judicial Complex for a petition seeking pre-arrest bail in a first information report (FIR) related to the alleged fraud in the sale of Toshakhana gifts, which was registered on June 6.

He is also expected to appear before an anti-terrorism court in 10 cases related to violation of Section 144 and threatening a female judge.

Earlier in the day, the FJC registrar granted the PTI chief permission to enter the court premises in his vehicle.

In the request, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, Imran said it was crucial for him to have access to his vehicle within court premises to “ensure safety and minimalise potential risk during the attendance”.

IHC extends stay in criminal proceedings against Imran in Toshakhana case

Prior to Imran’s arrival, the IHC granted an extension in its order issued last month in which it had temporarily halted the criminal proceedings against the PTI chairman in the Toshakhana reference.

The court agreed to extend its orders upon the request of Imran’s lawyer, Khawaja Haris, who sought a week-long adjournment in the proceedings. However, the ECP counsel urged the court to revoke its order that prevents the trial court from taking action against the ex-PM.

Haris brought to the court’s attention that he had filed a petition challenging the jurisdiction of the trial court.

Following the arguments, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq adjourned the hearing until June 14.

Source: dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1758610/imran-to-appear-before-ihc-anti-terrorism-court-in-multiple-cases-today

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Army takes aim at ‘planners’ of May 9 riots

June 8, 2023

ISLAMABAD: Troubles continue to multiply for the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf following the violent events of May 9-10, as the military’s top brass vowed on Wednesday to tighten the noose on the “planners and masterminds” of the riots that erupted following the arrest of Imran Khan in a corruption case, leaving a number of military and government installations destroyed in its wake.

Amid flak from national and international watchdogs over alleged rights abuses, the military leadership brushed aside these insinuations, saying the protesters and politicians were arrested in connection with violent protests on the basis of “irrefutable evidence”.

According to the statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR): “General Syed Asim Munir presided over the 81st Formation Commanders Conference at [the] GHQ, which was attended by corps commanders, principal staff officers and all formation commanders of Pakistan Army.”

Participants were bri­efed on the prevalent environment, challenges to security i.e. both internal and external and the military’s operational preparedness in response to evolving threats, both “traditional and non-traditional”.

“Hostile forces and their abettors have been trying hard to create societal division and confusion through fake news and propaganda but all such designs will continue to be defeated with the full support of the nation,” the army chief said, as per the statement.

The forum, while condemning the violence on May 9, reiterated its firm resolve that “desecrators of Shuhada Monuments, Jinnah House [corps commander’s house in Lahore] and attackers of military installations would certainly be brought to justice speedily under the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secret[s] Act which are the derivatives of the Constitution of Pakistan”.

In this regard, efforts to create distortions and attempts to take refuge behind “imaginary and mirage human rights violations to create [a] smoke screen for hiding the ugly faces of all involved, are absolutely futile and do not stand the abundantly collected irrefutable evidence”.

It has been further stressed that, while the “legal trials [under army act] of perpetrators and instigators have commenced, it is time that [the] noose of law is also tightened around the planners and masterminds who mounted the hate-ripened and politically driven rebellion” against the state and state institutions to create chaos in the country.

It may be mentioned that during the protest, military installations, including the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, the Lahore corps commander’s residence, an ISI office in Faisalabad, and Radio Pakistan’s building in Peshawar were damaged by the protesters.

The formation commanders warned quarters concerned about the consequences of creating hurdles in the due process, with the statement saying, “The forum resolved that endeavours by any quarter to create obstructions and stymie the conclusive defeat of ill design of inimical forces will be dealt with iron hands.”

The statement claimed that “unfounded and baseless allegations on law enforcement agencies and security forces for custodial torture, human rights abuses and stifling of political activities are meant to mislead the people and malign [the] armed forces in order to achieve trivial vested political interests”.

‘Operational preparedness’

Also, the forum was briefed on the structural changes and niche technologies being incorporated to enhance the operational preparedness of the army besides the upgradation of essential logistic infrastructure corresponding to emerging security imperatives.

The army chief reiterated “Pakistan Army will remain committed towards their national obligations of safeguarding territorial integrity and sovereignty” of the country. He further said that people shared a deep bond with the armed forces and will “remain central to all our undertakings and events of May 25 [Martyrs Day] were a clear manifestation of [the] same”.

Gen Munir commended the commanders for their constant focus on the high state of morale of their soldiers who remained the foundation of the army’s operational readiness.

The forum also paid rich tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs, including officers and men of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and civil society, who laid their lives for the country.

Source: dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1758590/army-takes-aim-at-planners-of-may-9-riots

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Tareen announces Istehkaam-e-Pakistan Party

June 08, 2023

LAHORE: A new party has emerged on the country’s political scene, as Istekaam-e-Pakistan, it was officially announced here. The sources say that Jahangir Tareen formally announced the new party at a dinner at Aleem Khan’s house. The dinner was hosted in honour of Jahangir Tareen and his group, which was attended by around 100 leaders from across the country. Former Sindh governor Imran Ismail, Ali Zaidi, Mahmood Maulvi and Jay Prakash were among those who attended. GG Jamal from erstwhile Fata, and Ajmal Wazir from KP also attended the dinner. Murad Raas, Fayyaz Chauhan, Firdous Ashiq Awan, Nauman Langriyal and Noreez Shakur from Punjab were also present among the noteworthy leaders who have joined the new group. According to sources, these political leaders expressed full confidence in Jahangir Tareen. Tareen Group sources say that Jahangir Tareen will announce his party and manifesto in a press conference today (Thursday).

Earlier, the leader of the Democrats group and former provincial minister of Punjab, Murad Raas joined the Jahangir Tareen group. Aleem Khan and Awn Chaudhry were also present during the meeting. Besides, several former members of the assembly and key political figures also announced joining the Tareen group. They included former adviser to the chief minister of Punjab on endowments and religious affairs, Rafaqat Ali Geelani, ex-MPA from Chishtian, Mumtaz Mehravi and ex-MPA from Sahiwal, Meher Irshad Kathia. From Nankana Sahib, Mian Usman Ashraf and Mianwali and Major (R) Khurram Rokhri also announced joining the Tareen party. Ex-MPA Diwan Azmat and Syed Muhammad Chishti also met Jahangir Tareen at his residence in Lahore. Abdul Aleem Khan, Ishaq Khakwani, Awn Chaudhry, Malik Nauman Langriyal, Firdous Ashiq Awan, Ajmal Cheema, Ameer Haider Sanga and Shoaib Siddiqui were also present in the meetings.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1078057-tareen-announces-istehkaam-e-pakistan-party

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PM reiterates Pakistan’s desire to further cement bilateral cooperation with Turkiye

June 08, 2023

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says Pakistan is desirous of further promoting bilateral cooperation with Turkiye in diverse fields including trade, investment, higher education, tourism and infrastructure development.

He was talking to Ambassador of Turkiye to Pakistan Mehmet Pacaci who called on him in Islamabad.

The Prime Minister said that Turkiye and Pakistan have long-standing historical ties based on common faith and mutual respect and the people of both countries have great respect for each other.

Referring to his meetings with Turk investment companies during his recent visit to Turkiye, the Prime Minister said now is the best time for foreign investment in Pakistan and the government welcomes the deep interest of Turkish companies in this regard.

He said Pakistan looks forward to the visit of the Turkish President to Pakistan for the seventh meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperative Council.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/08-06-2023/pm-reiterates-pakistans-desire-to-further-cement-bilateral-cooperation-with-turkiye

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South Asia

 

Casualties Reported after Explosion Rocks Afghanistan’s Faizabad Mosque

June 8, 2023

An explosion occurred inside a mosque in northern Badakhshan province, Faizabad city, on Thursday during the funeral of the provincial deputy governor who was killed in an attack this week, officials said.

Maazudin Ahmadi, head of the information and culture office, confirmed to Khaama Press and said that an explosion occurred in the Faizabad city of Badakhshan province at around 10: 00 am local time inside the mosque.

Ahmadi added that the explosion had caused casualties but did not provide details.

ISIS, or the Islamic State, claimed responsibility for the car bomb attack on Tuesday that killed the Taliban deputy governor and his driver.

ISIS claimed responsibility and stated they had detonated a bomb targeting the deputy governor Mawlavi Nisar Ahamd Ahmadi, including his driver and six injured others.

The deputy governor’s vehicle was attacked while it was on its way to a court in Faizabad, the provincial capital of Badakhshan province.

Since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, ISIS has posed a serious security threat to Afghanistan’s de facto government. Over the previous close to two years, the insurgency combatants have been behind several violent attacks against the Russian Embassy, Pakistan’s diplomatic mission, and a Chinese-run hotel in the centre of Kabul.

The attacks on the foreign diplomatic missions in the capital city of Kabul resulted in the deaths and injuries of several foreigners and ordinary people in the country.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/casualties-reported-after-explosion-rocks-afghanistans-faizabad-mosque/

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We Must Develop Our Islamic and Afghan Culture, to Save Youths for Foreign Culture: Haqqani

2023-06-08

KABUL (BNA) Acting Interior Minister Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani during his trip to Balkh province in a gathering said “To save the youth from the domination of foreign culture, we must develop our Islamic and Afghan culture and thought.

The Interior Minister Haqqani said that the enemies are plotting to divide the Afghans, but the roots of prejudice here are not civil, but from outsiders and have a political form, a statement said by Ministry the other day.

“Enemies are making many conspiracies to divide Afghans, but the roots of prejudice here were never present in the people but brought by foreigners and only had a political aspect” the statement quoted Haqqani.

The enemies of Afghanistan tried to divide the country, but the Mujahideen of the North and the deep roots of national unity proved that we are a united nation.

Our real situation is that from Panjsher to the earthquake victims of Paktika and from Uruzgana to the people affected by the natural calamities of Badakhshan, the helping hands were extended.

Minister Haqqani reminded saying that “Our real situation is that from Panjsher to the earthquake victims of Paktika and from Uruzgana to the people affected by the natural calamities of Badakhshan, the helping hands were extended”

“Our unity is natural, it has deep roots in our beliefs, he said and called on those Afghans who were frightened by propaganda and left their homeland to return home”

In the end, Mr. Haqqani said that “In order to save the youth from the domination of foreign culture, we must develop our Islamic and Afghan culture and thought. We should make it so beloved that people accept it voluntarily by themselves”.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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https://bakhtarnews.af/en/we-must-develop-our-islamic-and-afghan-culture-to-save-youths-for-foreign-culture-haqqani/

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Medicine One of Most Fundamental Issues In the Country: Hanafi

2023-06-08

KABUL (BNA) Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs in a meeting with the head of the medical council, asked the council to work in coordination with the relevant departments to standardize and provide standard services to the people.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Hanafi met with Dr. Gul Mohammad Osman, the general chairman and members of the Afghan Medical Council, according to a statement released by his office.

Osman shared details on the activities, functions, the importance of the existence of the Medical Council in the standardization of medicine fields in the country and the future plans of the aforementioned Council for the development of medicine in the country.

He said that aligning medical issues with international standards, arranging and adjusting the curriculum for medical students across the country, creating a national symposium in the health department and creating coordination between the relevant departments are among the basic issues that require the special attention of the officials of the Islamic Emirate.

For his part, Hanafi, called the reality of the Medical Council important for the country in order to monitor, evaluate and develop medicine in coordination with the relevant departments.

Deputy PM Hanafi called medicine one of the most fundamental issues of the country, which unfortunately has not been significantly developed in the past years, but the Islamic Emirate has paid serious attention to the above issues.

Hanafi asked the medical council to coordinate with the relevant departments to use all their efforts to standardize and provide standard services to the people.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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https://bakhtarnews.af/en/medicine-one-of-most-fundamental-issues-in-the-country-hanafi/

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Islamic Development Bank pledges $8.1 million to help Afghanistan

June 7, 2023

The Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has signed cooperation agreements worth $8.1 million with six international humanitarian agencies to help the people of Afghanistan in various sectors.

The contracts are in the areas of food security, drinking water supply, health and in agriculture in different provinces of the country.

The Ministry of Finance in a statement welcomed the move.

“The Ministry of Finance welcomes this good action of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Islamic Development Bank, the King Salman charity, the Saudi Fund and the member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and expresses its gratitude and appreciation for their humanitarian and generous assistance to the people of Afghanistan,” the statement said.

The Ministry of Finance called on all humanitarian aid organizations to design projects, taking into account the realities and priorities of the society and with the coordination of the ministry, so that the existing problems of the people are “completely solved.”

Source: ariananews.af

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https://www.ariananews.af/islamic-development-bank-pledges-8-1-million-to-help-afghanistan/

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Islamic Emirate Pledged to Serve the People: Hanaif

2023-06-07

KABUL (BNA) Deputy Prime Minister, for administrative affairs, during a meeting with the chief police commander of Ghanzi, said that the Islamic Emirate is pledged to serve the people and the Mujahidin.

Speaking at the meeting Makhdoom Alam reminded of the sacrifices of the people of Ghazni in the last twenty years against foreign invaders and said that the people and Mujahideen of this province deserve more attention in the sectors of job creation, education, and health.

For his part, Deputy PM Hanafi, welcoming the chief Police Commander of Ghazni and the Mujahideen of that province, praised the sacrifices of the people of Ghazni in the time of Jihad and the fight against the invaders.

The people of Afghanistan fulfilled their religious and patriotic duty during the Jihad, and now it is the turn of the Islamic Emirate to fulfill its responsibility in serving the people and the Mujahidin, adding that the Islamic Emirate will address the problems and needs of all to the best of its ability.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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https://bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-pledged-to-serve-the-people-hanaif/

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Two Bangladeshi women detained from MBB Airport in Tripura

In their preliminary investigation, the police found that they came to India from Bangladesh in search of work.

Written by Debraj Deb

June 6, 2023

Tripura news, Bangladeshi women detention, MBB Airpor, Tripura airpot women detention, Police probe, Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, indian express, indian express newsThe Airport police and Bamutia police outpost jointly conducted a probe to trace an autorickshaw that was used by the Bangladeshi nationals. (Express Photo)

Two Bangladeshi women were detained on Tuesday after they were found moving suspiciously at Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport, according to police. The two have been identified as Hasma (23) and Swapna Sarkar (21).

“Our on-duty mobile team found the two women were moving suspiciously. We brought them to the police station and came to know they are Bangladeshi nationals. Our interrogation is on to know from which bordering side they have intruded here,” said officer-in-charge of Airport police station Suman Singha.

In their preliminary investigation, the police found that they came to India from Bangladesh in search of work. However, they did not reveal where they were headed.

Meanwhile, the Airport police and Bamutia police outpost jointly conducted a probe to trace an autorickshaw that was used by the Bangladeshi nationals.

“We could not arrest anyone but we found an autorickshaw from Bamutia that was used for transportation of the Bangladeshi nationals,” said Singha.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/tripura/two-bangladeshi-women-detained-from-mbb-airport-in-tripura-8649329/

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North America

 

Blinken: Islamic State Fight ‘Not Yet Done’

June 08, 2023

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday that when it comes to defeating the Islamic State militant group, the “fight is not yet done.”

Speaking in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the start of a ministerial meeting of the 80-member Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, Blinken said the group has achieved territorial defeat of the group in Iraq and Syria, taken out its leaders and prevent large-scale attacks.

But Blinken highlighted several areas of focus to achieve what he called the “enduring end” of the Islamic State group.

He announced a goal for commitments of $600 million to help with programs in Iraq and Syria to address areas that militants exploit to recruit fighters, including funding for social services and ensuring accountability for crimes.

Blinken also discussed repatriations from the region, saying it is particularly important for countries to take back their nationals who traveled to Iraq and Syria to fight with the Islamic State group and are now in detention centers. Not doing so, he said, risked those fighters one day being freed and returning to militant activities.

He also said civilians, especially children, need to be taken back to their home countries in order to have hope and opportunities.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Saudi foreign minister, told the meeting that while it is admirable that many countries, including smaller nations, have stepped forward and carried out repatriations, a number of wealthy countries he did not name have not done so. He called that lack of action “unacceptable” and said that being part of a coalition means “you must take your responsibility.”

Blinken also discussed the threat of Islamic State affiliates, including those in the Sahel region in Africa and in Afghanistan. He said there is a need to keep up with evolving threats and to also remain vigilant and ensure that Afghanistan does not become a safe haven for terrorists.

Source: voanews.com

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https://www.voanews.com/a/blinken-islamic-state-fight-not-yet-done-/7128122.html

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UN investigators compile evidence on chemical weapons use by Islamic State extremists in Iraq

June 7, 2023

UNITED NATIONS — U.N. investigators are compiling evidence on the development and use of chemical weapons by Islamic State extremists in Iraq after they seized about a third of the country in 2014 and are advancing work on the militant group's gender-based violence and crimes against children, Sunni and Shiite Muslims, Christians and Yazidis, the head of the investigative team said Wednesday.

Christian Ritscher told the U.N. Security Council that survivors of a March 2016 chemical attack against Taza Khurmatu, a mainly Shia Turkmen town south of Kirkuk in northeast Iraq, were still deeply impacted when he visited earlier this year.

He said he has prioritized the investigation of chemical weapons used by the Islamic State.

"ISIL weaponized several chemical agents and deployed these as chemical rockets and mortars, as well as improvised explosive devices, in the vicinity of Taza Khurmatu" which hit residential neighborhoods and agricultural fields, Ritscher said.

The attack against Taza Khurmatu was believed to be the first use of chemical weapons by ISIL, according to the U.N. investigators. They have said more than 6,000 residents were treated for injuries and two children died within days of exposure while many survivors continue to suffer chronic and ongoing effects.

Ritscher said his team's investigation "has provided specialized insight and analysis on the munitions, remnants and materials that were recovered" in Taza Khurmatu.

"Significant volumes of battlefield evidence, including ISIL payroll records and correspondence, were discovered, allowing the team to identify persons of interest and establish links to potential senior ISIL members," he said.

Islamic State fighters seized Iraqi cities and declared a self-styled caliphate in a large swath of territory in Syria and Iraq in 2014. The group was formally declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 following a three-year bloody battle that left tens of thousands dead and cities in ruins. However, its sleeper cells continue to stage attacks in different parts of Iraq.

The U.N. Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes committed by the Islamic State group, known as UNITAD, which Ritscher heads, was established by the Security Council in 2017 to collect evidence so perpetrators of crimes by the Islamic State can be held accountable at trials. It has worked closely with Iraqi judicial officials.

A UNITAD report in May 2021 said the Islamic State group "tested biological and chemical agents and conducted experiments on prisoners ... causing death," and an initial investigation was launched.

Ritscher assured the Security Council that "there is no shortage of evidence on ISIL crimes in Iraq, as ISIL was a large-scale bureaucracy that documented and maintained a state-like administrative system."

He said his team has led efforts that have so far digitized 8 million pages of ISIL documents held by Iraqi authorities, including Kurdish officials, and as a next step UNITAD is establishing a central archive "that will be the unified repository of all digitized evidence against ISIL."

Ritscher said UNITAD is also prioritizing "persons of interest" living in other countries and is currently supporting criminal proceedings against alleged members and supporters of ISIL in 17 countries.

Source: stripes.com

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https://www.stripes.com/theaters/middle_east/2023-06-07/un-investigators-chemical-weapons-iraq-10368196.html

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Montgomery County Councilmember: Muslim Families On The Same Side as White Supremacists On LGBT In School

June 7, 2023

Montgomery County, Maryland Councilmember Kristin Mink tells the county public school board that Muslim families who seek the right to opt out of teachings on sexual morality that violate their religion are on the same side as white supremacists

Source: realclearpolitics.com

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https://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2023/06/07/montgomery_county_councilmember_muslim_families_on_the_same_side_as_white_supremacists_on_lgbt_in_school.html

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‘Struggling’ community can’t meet mosque security needs, local imam says

07-06-23

From a lack of funding to cultural biases, local mosques face several challenges in protecting their premises and worshippers, Minnesota Muslim leaders said at a community forum Tuesday.

Community members spoke out at an event at the Mercy Islamic Center co-hosted by Sahan Journal and MPR News in response to attacks on four Twin Cities mosques between April and May. The event was held in the same building where Jackie Rahm Little allegedly lit a fire on the third floor that houses Masjid Al Rahma, causing an estimated $50,000 in damages.

Panelist Imam Yusuf Abdulle, an executive director of the Islamic Association of North America, said the solution to protecting houses of worship lies in funding. Yusuf said most mosques can’t afford safety training like active shooter training, much less added security and equipment like security cameras.

“This is not a community that is wealthy or rich; it’s a poor community that is struggling in life in general,” Yusuf said.

The panelists, which included imams, police officials, and a law professor, discussed the impact of hate crimes, restorative justice, and mosque security, among other topics. Minnesota U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger also announced that his office will participate in a national campaign called United Against Hate, which aims to provide support, partnership, and resources to communities of all kinds affected by hate and Islamophobia.

“Right now, given what’s happening and given the fear and the concern in the community, we want to make sure that we’re reaching out to the Muslim community first,” Luger said.

The United Against Hate program was announced in September 2022. It brings community groups and federal, state, and local law enforcement together in forums to increase understanding. It also hopes to increase the reporting of hate crimes and to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and community groups to fight hate, according to the U.S. Department of Justice website.

St. Paul Police Deputy Chief of Operations Joshua Lego also revealed that a suspect has been identified in the vandalism at Masjid As Sunnah. The suspect threw a large chunk of concrete at the St. Paul mosque’s glass door several times on May 12, shattering it. Lego said Tuesday night that police are working to find the suspect.

Luger reaffirmed his commitment to finding justice for the mostly East African communities affected by the four recent mosque attacks. While prosecutors allege that one suspect in two cases was motivated by hate, the motive in a third case remains unknown, and a fourth case has been deemed unrelated to bias.

Little was indicted on a federal hate crime for lighting fires at Masjid As Sunnah and Masjid Omar Islamic Center, which is located in 24 Somali Mall, in April. Said Murekezi was charged for starting a fire inside the Oromo American Tawhid Islamic Center on May 17, allegedly to protest homelessness. No charges have been filed in the vandalism at Masjid As Sunnah.

“I have had my own brushes with hate, even if they are minor compared with an arson or a bombing of a mosque,” Luger said after noting that he is Jewish and that synagogues have also been targeted for violence.

Moderators asked Luger  how he planned to earn community trust while simultaneously prosecuting 60 mostly East African defendants in the Feeding Our Future food-aid fraud case, and in light of his previous work leading a federal counterterrorism program focused on Minnesota’s Somali community.

He said being present at community events such as Tuesday’s forum and maintaining an open line of communication with local imams are his key strategies, along with doing his job “quickly.”

“I hope we build trust, because it’s something—as I said in my remarks—is deeply personal to me that we protect all communities, and in particular right now this community,” Luger said.

A major talking point among panel members, which included a representative from the Minnesota chapter of the Council of American Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN), was how to treat suspects who have mixed intentions, including those diagnosed with mental health issues.

Minneapolis Police Chief, Brian O’Hara and Deputy Chief Lego from St. Paul police said every incident would be investigated similarly without assumption of a suspect’s motive.

“What we saw in Minneapolis in the last few months was just an increasing escalation of these really dangerous behaviors,” O’Hara said. ”If a person needs help, that’s fine. They can get the help in federal prison.”

Liliana Zaragoza, a professor and the director of the Racial Justice Law Clinic at the University of Minnesota, said arrests won’t completely stop future attacks. The solutions lie in how society combats white supremacy, and how future attacks can be prevented by providing services that address mental health and other issues.

“I think it does matter because what if, somehow, that mental illness exacerbates the ideas about hate,” Zaragoza said.

Yusuf, the local imam, echoed Zaragoza’s sentiments. The long term solution, he said, is to deal with the root of the problem. He said the country was due for a “cultural change” regarding its views on Muslims.

Panelist Mohamed Ibrahim, deputy director of the CAIR-MN, said St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter made a commitment to purchasing cameras for houses of worship in his city, and that he’d like to see Governor Tim Walz and state legislators step up their commitment.

“We still have a huge gap in terms of how do we financially, at least, equip these mosques with just the basic fundamentals of having a camera that isn’t, you know, only activating based on motion,” Mohamed said.

Source: sahanjournal.com

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https://sahanjournal.com/policing-justice/twin-cities-mosques-vandalism-panel-discussion-minneapolis-st-paul/

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US: Muslim parents protest losing right to opt out of LGBTQ school books

7 June 2023

A Maryland law permits students and families to opt out of engaging with any instructional materials in schools related to family life and human sexuality. But in March, a public school district ended that policy in its schools, leaving some parents outraged.

In the Fall of 2022, the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) system revealed its plans to alter the curriculum the following school semester. The new curriculum was to include a new list of books to read from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade which were on sexual and gender identity.

According to the Council on American–Islamic Relations (Cair), schools gave families advanced notice of the planned discussions and the option to opt their children out of those discussions based on their held religious beliefs, which many families did. Parents argued that topics of sexual orientation and gender identity were being introduced too early.

In March, the school system abruptly revised its parental notification policy, which meant that parents were no longer informed in advance of the books being read in class. And opting out of lessons was not allowed anymore.

According to MCPS, Maryland law only allows opting out for sexual education lessons, and these books were not on that topic.

In Montgomery County, parents and organisers told Middle East Eye that they want the school system to bring back the opt-out option and they are not trying to get the books themselves removed.

“We have rights under the First Amendment. This was an opt-out that was already in place. It was already afforded to us. It was already there. We were already opting out,” Wael Elkoshairi, an organiser with Family Rights for Religious Freedom (FRRF), told MEE.

“We are not anti-LGBT. You know, this is not a monolithic society we live in. We understand people have different lifestyles and we respect everybody's right to live those lifestyles.

"What we are saying is when it comes to sexual education and things that we feel relate to sexual education and family life, according to Maryland law, we have the option to opt-out.”

In a demonstration organised by FRRF on 6 June, over 400 people protested outside the MCPS headquarters in Rockville, Maryland, to bring back the opt-out option.

Additionally, parents and students have been speaking in education hearings about their concerns and will continue to do so, Elkoshairi said.

Momina, a parent with two daughters in the MCPS school system, told MEE that she does not want them to be introduced to sexual and gender identity books.

"They are too young. I don't want my daughters reading and discussing about straight or gay identity," she said. "I am not saying that these discussions shouldn't be allowed in schools. If people want them, then fine. I am saying that we should have the option to have our kids opt out if we please."

"Sex does not belong in schools," she said.

Likening Muslims to white supremacists

Parents’ concerns over sexually explicit content in schools have long been an issue.

In October, chaos erupted after a Dearborn school district temporarily restricted access to seven books after parents raised concerns that the books contained sexually explicit content. Parents then told MEE that the narrative from the media has since changed, with them turning it into an issue with the greater LGBTQ community.

In May, three families sued the MCPS board and superintendent over the updated curriculum and argued that the lack of an opt-out option violated their First Amendment rights.

The complaint from the families suing the school district doesn’t request the removal of the books, the Washington Post reported.

“The Montgomery County Muslim parents have been clearly and consistently asking MCPS for only one thing: respect the rights and sincerely held beliefs of parents and children by restoring the opt-out option that worked well throughout the fall semester,” Zainab Choudry, the director of Cair-Maryland told MEE.

Following the protests, Maryland Democrat Kristin Mink of Montgomery County Council said Muslim children were on the "side of White supremacists".

"This issue, unfortunately, does put… some Muslim families on the same side of an issue as White supremacists and outright bigots," Mink said. "I would not put you in the same category as those folks, although, you know, it's complicated because they're falling on the same side of this particular issue."

Mink added that this is not an infringement on religious freedoms, “just as we cannot allow folks to opt out of teachings about evolution".

Elkoshairi said the words were careless, obnoxious, and insensitive.

Cair called on Mink to publicly apologise for “wrongly singling” out Muslim families and making “unfair characterisations and disparaging remarks” about their concerns.

“Any attempt to silence or smear families who are simply asking for their rights as taxpayers and residents in the county is deeply disingenuous and harmful.”

Source: middleeasteye.net

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https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/muslim-parents-protest-losing-right-to-opt-out-lgbtq-school-books

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Africa

 

Explore Intellectual Energies of Youth to  Grow Nigeria, Muslim Youths Tell Tinubu

08-06-23

The youth wing of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria under the aegis of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Nigeria, yesterday  called on  President Bola  Tinubu to engage the youth and  explore their  intellectual energies towards the growth of the country.

The National President of the group, Abdur Rogib Akinyemi, stated this at a press conference in Akure the Ondo state capital, to kick start the 49th annual national Ijtema convention, with the theme; “Upholding the Institution of Khilafah Through Activities of Nizam-e-jama’at.”

According to him, youths are the backbone of any nation, their physical and intellectual energies matter to the growth of a developing nation such as Nigeria, hence, the government should leverage the manifold talents in its youth is through meaningful engagement and dialogue.

Akinyemi called on Tinubu to fulfill his promises, stressing that Nigeria is lagging behind because of lack of fulfilling promises by leaders who have governed the country.

His words: “Tinubu should leave by the promises he has made to Nigerians and by show doing Nigeria will move forward. There must be justice at the point in time, and when there is justice there will be peace. If we want peace to reign in our society, there must be justice. Every stakeholder must be given what is due to them. So, we as citizens of Nigeria we are going to obey the authority while the president of the nation must fulfill his promises too   because we voted for him, due to his promises.

 “Tinubu must be committed to the development of this nation, he should engage youths of nowadays to move the country forward through their wisdom and knowledge. The simple way for the developing nation to get there is for the leaders whom have been voted for to leave by their promises and they should ensure that all what they are doing are done with the sincerity of purpose.”

Speaking on their 49th annual national convention, holding in Owo between June 7 and 10, 2023, Akinyemi said: “The theme of this year’s Ijtema underscores the significance of preserving and promoting the concept of Khilafah and the role of Nizam-e-Jama’at in society. The convention aims to deepen the participants’ understanding of these principles and inspire them to play an active role in their implementation within the Muslim community.

“A good understanding of this theme is critical to peace and harmony in our community and to our individual moral and spiritual success. The primary purpose of creation is to serve our Creator as the Holy Qur’an 51 vs 57 states; “And I have not created the Jinn and the men, but they may worship Me”. It is also our responsibility to serve humanity and give back to our community.”

 He added that over 2,000 participants across the 16 states in Nigeria will take part in the 49th annual convention.

Source: thisdaylive.com

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http://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2023/06/08/explore-intellectual-energies-of-youth-to-grow-nigeria-muslim-youths-tell-tinubu

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I Don’t Belong to Any Islamic Radical Sect, Abass Replies Opponents

08-06-23

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The anointed candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the position of the 10th House of Representatives Speakership position, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, has said he was not a member of any radical Islamic sect as being speculated in certain quarters.

Abass also said, contrary to accusations, from his opponents in the social media, he is a Hausa/Fulani tribe from a royal family in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The ranking lawmaker stated this in Abuja on Tuesday night at a dinner organised for him by members-elect from the North West geopolitical zone.

No fewer than 74 lawmakers-elect attended the event where they also endorsed Abass as the next Speaker of the House of Representatives and Hon Benjamin Kalu as Deputy Speaker.

He said, “I want to highlight some areas of what has been going on in the social media  about my identity in the past few months

“I want to use this opportunity to say that I am a Hausa man from my father’s side from Zaria and a Katsina man from my mother’s side. I’m both Hausa/Fulani from both sides.

“I also want to debunk allegations from those who are saying I have religious inclination to radical Islamic group. I want to say that I am a Royal Prince in Zaria. We don’t belong to any other Islamic sect than the Sunni.

“I have no other religious sect other than the Sunni. I tell you for those that know the North in general, a member of any sect other than the Sunni cannot even win election to any leadership position.

“Imagine somebody who has been a member three times spanning a period of 12 years can be branded a religious fanatic or a member of a radical sect. That is politics.

“Those who believe that they can only succeed by smearing their opponent’s image please stop because I believe as a Muslim that power comes from God. No matter what you do if it is not designed for you to be you can never be.”

Abass also assured Nigerians that the 10th Assembly will not and will never be a rubber stamp to the executive.

He said, “In areas where we need to cooperate or collaborate we will do the very best for us to ensure that there is that synergy.

“Where we believe that the Executive has erred, we will not be afraid to stand up and tell the the executive you are wrong in this place and we will not accept it.”

The Majority Leader and Chairman North-West Caucus of the 9th House of Representatives, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, who read the group’s communique, said the group was in total support of the zoning of offices of presiding officers of the 10th National Assembly by the All Progressives Congress.

Doguwa said, “The  House of Representatives members -elect from the Northwest geopolitical zone comprising Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, Jigawa and Sokoto states irrespective of political affiliations hereby resolve as follows:

“That we perused the proposed zoning arrangement of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with respect to the sharing of presiding officers of the National Assembly and concluded that it is acceptable to us in its entirety as it is reflective of the federal character principle as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

“That the decision to cede the positions of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the 10th National Assembly to the North West and South-East geo-political zones which is the most populated zone of the country is in order as it is essential for the stability and progress of the country.

“That the North-West geopolitical zone has contributed significantly to the victory of the ruling party in the just concluded 2023 General elections, particularly to the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 “That the National Assembly is a critical institution in our democracy and that whoever must preside over the House of Representatives must not only be experienced in legislative affairs but must be competent and well versed in the affairs of governance of the country.

“Consequently, our decision to declare support for the candidacy of Dr Tajudeen Abass and Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu is based on their pedigree and accomplishments  over the years as a legislator of note.

“That as a fourth termer with an outstanding performance as the sponsor of the highest number of Bills and motions in the House of Representatives, it is in the interest of the nation to have such an experienced legislator as the Speaker of the  10th House of Representatives.

“That we appeal to other Speakership contestants to as a matter of national interest and cohesion concede and pave the way for the seamless emergence of Dr Tajudeen Abass and Hon Benjamin Kalu as the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives

“That we are committed to supporting the administration of the PresidentAsiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a better Nigeria and this can only happen with a competent and acceptable leadership in the House of Representatives.

“In conclusion, we hereby unanimously declare our total support for the sole candidature of Dr Tajudden Abbas as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu as Deputy Speaker.”

Source: thisdaylive.com

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http://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2023/06/07/i-dont-belong-to-any-islamic-radical-sect-abass-replies-opponents

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Politicians set Muslims, Christians against one another in Kaduna – Shehu Sani

7th June 2023

The former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has alleged that Muslims and Christians in the state are set up against one another for political gains.

This comment was following the state’s erstwhile governor, Nasir El-Rufai’s remark in a viral video where he told his audience that in the course of the electioneering campaigns, when “they”(Christians) tried to ask questions on why the Muslim/Muslim ticket, he deceived ‘them’ that it was not for religious dominance when in reality, the tickets both nationally and at the state level were for Islamic dominance.

He further said that the victory of Bola Tinubu as President had silenced the Christian Association of Nigeria, adding, “I will sustain an Islamic-dominated government for 20 years and unending not only in Kaduna State but in Nigeria at large.

Sani in a tweet on Wednesday, however, said he had read the reactions that trailed the video and it is nothing new.

“Bigotry is a state policy in Kaduna State for the past eight years.

“Muslim and Christians were set up against each other for political gains. Religious clerics were drafted and paid to propagate hate and divisiveness,” he wrote.

Sanni further alleged that the government purports itself as the champion of the interest of the Muslims while it inflicted suffering and hardship on the same people.

“The past government maintained a systemic policy of marginalisation and repression of the people of Southern Kaduna because of their faith and political choices.

“Over the years, some of their leaders were arrested for voicing out. The last act was the proscription of one of their groups,” he added.

The former senator, however, said most of such clips are cunningly and deliberately not done in the English Language.

Source: punchng.com

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https://punchng.com/politicians-set-muslims-christians-against-one-another-in-kaduna-shehu-sani/

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Kano man docked for allegedly stealing speaker from mosque

 JUNE 7, 2023

A20-year-old man, Halifa Sani, was on Wednesday docked in a Kano Sharia Court in Kano for allegedly stealing a speaker and cable from a mosque worth N70,000.

Mr Sani, who lives in Gadon Kaya, Kano is charged with theft.

The Prosecution Counsel, Abdullahi Wada, told the court that the case was reported on June 2, at the Gwale police station by Nura Muhammed, who is also the complainant.

Mr Wada said the defendant stole the speaker, property of Usman Ibn-Affan mosque, worth N50,000 and a cable worth N20,000.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Judge, Umar Lawal-Abubakar, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N10,000 with one surety who should be a blood relation.

Mr Lawal-Abubakar adjourned the matter until June 22, for mention.

Source: gazettengr.com

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https://gazettengr.com/kano-man-docked-for-allegedly-stealing-speaker-from-mosque/

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Muslim-Muslim Ticket Is Fraud, Says Northern Forum Spokesman

Wed, 7 Jun 2023

Baba Ahmed stated this during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, while commenting on APC’s zoning of Senate Presidency.

He said the legislators should be allowed to decide whom they want to lead them.

According to him, the North Western region should be allowed to produce the next senate president, saying their votes brought President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to power.

Commenting on the Muslim Muslim ticket in Kaduna State, he said, “What did he (El-Rufai) do for the Muslims? He demolished their houses. Ninety five percent of the houses and building he demolished belong to Muslims. So for what value has Muslim-Muslim. It’s fraud.

“Politicians have poisoned faith. They took it made it a political capital. And they are fooling everybody. The earlier we open our eyes, the better. They are destroying the political process by bring faith into it. They are deceiving people into thinking that they represent a class, which is not true.”

Source: dailytrust.com

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https://dailytrust.com/muslim-muslim-ticket-is-fraud-says-northern-forum-spokesman/

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Arab World

 

Saudi Arabia Wins UN World Tourism Organization Executive Council Seat

June 08, 2023

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has won a seat on the UN World Tourism Organization Executive Council from 2023 to 2027 for the Middle East region.

The Kingdom has been elected as a member of the work team in charge of “Redesigning Tourism for the Future,” which was formed under an initiative introduced by Saudi Arabia during the 24th General Assembly of the UNWTO in 2021.

The work team aims to enhance the role played by the UNWTO as a pioneer in the global tourism sector.

The election was held during the 49th meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the Middle East hosted by Jordan from June 7 to 9, 2023.

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb led the Kingdom’s delegation that took part in the meeting.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317931/saudi-arabia

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Kuwait votes in opposition-led parliament, one woman elected

June 07, 2023

KUWAIT CITY: Opposition lawmakers won a majority in Kuwait’s parliament with only one woman elected, results showed on Wednesday, after the Gulf state’s seventh general election in just over a decade.

The opposition figures include conservatives and independent politicians not tied to the ruling family who are pushing for a raft of reforms.

The vote on Tuesday came after Kuwait’s constitutional court in March annulled the results of last year’s election — in which the opposition made significant gains — and reinstated the previous parliament elected in 2020.

Opposition lawmakers won 29 of the legislature’s 50 seats, according to results published by the official Kuwait News Agency. Only one woman was elected — opposition candidate Janan Bushehri.

The makeup of the new parliament is very similar to the one elected last year and later annulled, with all but 12 of its 50 members retaining their seats.

This has sparked concerns that the legislature may once again find itself locked in disputes with the Cabinet, further deepening a political crisis that has delayed reforms and hampered growth.

“The government has to contend with a more combative parliament than the already combative 2022 version,” said Bader Al-Saif, assistant history professor at Kuwait University. “Therefore, expect bumps in the road unless radical reforms unfold,” he said.

Longtime speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanim and Ahmed Al-Saadoun, who replaced him last year, both return to parliament. Saadoun is expected to run again for the post of speaker.

Parliament’s first session is scheduled to take place on June 20.

“We are celebrating today the (victory of the) reformist approach,” opposition lawmaker Adel Al-Damkhi told reporters after the results were announced.

“The election results are an indication of the awareness of the Kuwaiti people.”

Turnout reached 50 percent one hour before polls closed, according to the Kuwait Transparency Society, a nongovernment group. Last year’s election saw turnout of 63 percent.

Since Kuwait adopted a parliamentary system in 1962, the legislature has been dissolved around a dozen times.

Continual standoffs between the branches of government have prevented lawmakers from passing economic reforms, while repeated budget deficits and low foreign investment have added to an air of gloom.

Bushehri, the new parliament’s sole female member, said she expected it “to seek stability and move ahead on outstanding issues, whether political or economic.”

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah congratulated the incoming deputies and called on them to “carry the responsibility of representing the people and ... realize their aspiration for a better future,” according to KUNA.

Kuwait, which borders Iraq, boasts 7 percent of global crude reserves. It has little debt and one of the strongest sovereign wealth funds in the world.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317696/middle-east

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Saudi Arabia highlights its tech achievements at Global Technology Forum in Paris

June 08, 2023

RIYADH: During the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Global Technology Forum in Paris on Tuesday, Saudi experts talked about the Kingdom’s achievements in the tech sector.

Saudi Arabia was represented at the event, which had the theme “Shaping our future at the tech frontier,” by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Its aim was to exchange experiences and ideas relating to developments in the technology sector, policies for the digital economy policies, and innovation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Daniah Orkoubi, the deputy minister for technology foresight and digital economy, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to create an advanced digital infrastructure that can rival the best in the world, in line with the goals of the nation’s Vision 2030 development and diversification plan.

She also discussed the Kingdom’s pioneering work to empower women, which has helped to increase female participation in the labor force to 33.6 percent.

Orkoubi also highlighted the Kingdom’s continuing efforts to help bridge the global digital divide, including the provision of satellite and non-terrestrial networks.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317816/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia makes final preparations for 10th Arab-China Business Conference

June 08, 2023

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Affairs Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan will open the 10th Arab-China Business Conference in Riyadh on Sunday, June 11.

The theme for the two -day event, held under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is “Collaborating For Prosperity,” and its aim is to support and promote strategic collaboration in the fields of economics, commerce and investment that benefits Arab nations and China.

The event is being organized by the Saudi Ministry of Investment in partnership with the Arab League secretary-general, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, and the Union of Arab Chambers.

It will look at investment opportunities in a variety of industries, organizers said. Key areas for potential cooperation include technology, renewable energy, agriculture, real estate, minerals, supply chains and innovation.

The agenda includes dialogue sessions and bilateral meetings to discuss ways in which Arab nations and China can work together to achieve prosperity and sustainable development.

Khalid Al-Falih, the Saudi minister of investment, said the crown prince’s patronage of the event reflects the commitment of the Saudi leadership to efforts to foster strategic partnerships with global economic powers.

He said that this year’s conference will be the biggest yet, with more than 3,000 decision-makers, government officials, investors, business owners and experts from 23 countries set to attend.

It will include eight panel discussions, 18 workshops, and a showcase of high-quality projects and cutting-edge technology. In particular, it aims to strengthen the Arab-Chinese partnerships as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing’s infrastructure-development strategy, in the areas of investment, the economy and trade, organizers said.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317801/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia condemns storming, vandalizing of its embassy in Sudan

June 08, 2023

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia strongly condemned on Thursday the storming and vandalism of its embassy building and attache offices in Sudan by armed groups.

In a statement by the Saudi foreign ministry, the Kingdom also denounced the sabotaging of housing and property of Saudi embassy staff.

The ministry expressed the Kingdom's total rejection of all forms of violence and sabotage towards diplomatic missions and representations.

It reiterated the importance of confronting these armed groups that are trying to undermine the return of security and stability to Sudan and its people.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317786/saudi-arabia

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Islamic Affairs Ministry Concludes Holy Quran Exhibition in Brazil

07 Jun, 2023

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance yesterday concluded the "Holy Quran" exhibition held in the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguacu, in cooperation with the Islamic Call Center for Latin America. The exhibition targeted Arab and Muslim communities in Brazil and neighboring countries.

The exhibition welcomed a large number of nationalities and age groups. Many copies of the Holy Quran were distributed in different sizes, in addition to distributing interpretations of the meanings of the Holy Quran from the publications of King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran in Madinah.

Source: alriyadhdaily.com

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http://alriyadhdaily.com/article/87782978748a453bb27d5d614d4e9659

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Mideast

 

Shiite Duo, Led By Hezbollah, Pressure Tactics in Presidential Race against Jihad Azour

2023-06-08

What resembles a "holy war" is currently being waged by the Shiite duo, led by Hezbollah, against the crossroads presidential candidate, Jihad Azour.

The resistance team has mobilized all its forces as support for this candidate grows.

This support indicated that the 12th session on the 14th of this month might witness Azour receiving 65 votes or more, a victory that cannot be surpassed, whether in obstructing the quorum of the first or second session.

This as sources told "Nidaa al-Watan" that the tense and charged atmosphere between Bkerke and Ain Tineh last week has dissipated after Berri scheduled a session on June 14th.

Patriarch Bechara Rai will send Bishops Paul Abdel Sater and Maroun Ammar to Ain Tineh tomorrow, Friday.

The patriarch's envoys will ask Berri to call for consecutive and swift sessions if the upcoming session fails and not settle for just one session.

They hope to avoid obstructing the quorum in the second round, as it happened previously, and resort to the electoral game.

It is worth noting that Bkerke and the Christian components accept this scenario, while the patriarchate wished for respect for Christian consensus, which was achieved for Azour after the other team, led by Berri, was blamed for the vacancy of Christian forces, which were not in agreement on a candidate.

Therefore, despite the appearance of the Shiite duo as challengers to Christian will, Bkerke insists on continuing internal dialogue, nationalizing the process, and completing it as soon as possible.

Despite the "confidence" displayed by Berri, stating that the team supporting his candidate Sleiman Frangieh will directly vote for Frangieh and not submit blank ballots as they did in the previous 11 sessions, the Shiite duo has chosen, before reaching the threshold of 65 votes, to embark on what resembles a "greater jihad."

This includes various forms of pressure, as stated in the statements of Hezbollah leaders yesterday under the guise of "dialogue," as mentioned by Sheikh Naim Qassem, the Deputy Secretary-General.

However, at the same time, the spokesman for the duo, Excellent Jaafari Mufti Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan, in a statement, demanded "the election of national interest alone, without the advice of the IMF armed with the US siege."

Sources told "Nidaa al-Watan" that the tension within the "duo" has led them to exaggerate their "real fear that the electoral session might be decisive from the first round, with Azour securing two-thirds of the votes of the deputies and declaring victory."

They base this assumption on the silence of the United States and, with it, Saudi Arabia, in addition to leaks from the French capital indicating, at the very least, a suspension of the initiative to exchange the presidency with the government.

Sources within the opposition forces have said, "If a Saudi password and another American one were disseminated to the deputies categorized under the gray area, we would find thirty deputies joining the intersection of forces supporting Azour's nomination."

In contrast to the fear-mongering campaign conducted by the opposition group against Azour, sources told "Nidaa al-Watan" that an extensive meeting was held yesterday for all components of the opposition, in addition to several independent MPs, to coordinate their position regarding the upcoming session on June 14th and study the practical steps to broaden the scope of consultations with blocs that have not yet determined their presidential choice.

As a result of this meeting, it became clear that among those who have determined their choice in favor of Azour among the Change MPs are Marc Dsou, Michel Douaihy, and Waddah al-Saddek.

On the other hand, those who have decided against Azour are Halima Kaakour, Cynthia Zarazir, and Elias Jradeh.

Six MPs still need to decide, including Melhem Khalaf, Najat Saliba, Paula Yaacoubian, Yassin Yassin, Firas Hamdan, and Ibrahim Mneimneh.

A prominent source within the Change MPs says that Azour's name was proposed among them before the intersection of the opposition took place. It was notable that some Change MPs changed their position without providing clear reasons.

Source: lbcgroup.tv

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https://www.lbcgroup.tv/news/press/707448/the-greater-jihad-shiite-duos-pressure-tactics-in/en

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Israeli forces raid mosque near Nablus

NABLUS , Wednesday, June 7, 2023 (WAFA) – Israeli forces today raided a mosque in the town of  Deir Sharaf, to the west of the occupied West Bank city of Nablus, according to local sources.

They said that a large unit of Israeli forces raided Abu Baker Al-Sadiq mosque, summoned the Imam of the mosque and searched a number of nearby stores, and prevented citizens from approaching the site.

Meanwhile, the soldiers intensified their measures at the town's entrance and roundabout leading to the Jenin and Tulkarm governorates, placing more cement cubes.

Source: english.wafa.ps

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https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/136192

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Israeli army mounts rare raid into Palestinian city of Ramallah, clashes ensue

June 08, 2023

RAMALLAH: Clashes erupted after Israeli forces mounted a rare raid into the Palestinian city of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank early on Thursday, in what the military said was an operation to demolish the house of an assailant.

A Reuters witness said a large military convoy arrived in downtown Ramallah, the seat of the Palestinian government, leading hundreds of Palestinians to gather in the area.

Some Palestinian youth hurled stones at the Israeli forces, who fired live bullets, stun grenades and tear gas at the crowd, the witness said. Trash bins that were set on fire blocked roads as ambulance sirens wailed.

The Palestinian health ministry said at least six people were transferred to hospital for treatment, including three who sustained gunshot wounds.

The Israeli military said its forces were operating in Ramallah “to demolish the residence of the terrorist who carried out the bombing attack in Jerusalem last November.”

The twin blasts killed two people, including an Israeli-Canadian teenager, and wounded at least 14 others in what police said were explosions of improvised bombs that were planted at bus stops near the city exit and in a junction leading to a settlement.

“The demolition of the homes of fighters is a collective punishment that falls under the war crimes committed by the occupation against our people,” said Abdel Fattah Dola of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah party.

Israel has said the policy of demolishing homes of perpetrators is both punitive and a deterrence to potential attackers.

Hours earlier the US envoy to Palestinians, Hady Amr, met with senior Palestinian official Hussein Al-Sheikh.

Violence in the West Bank, among territories where Palestinians seek statehood, has risen during the past year. Israel has intensified its military raids amid a spate of street attacks carried out by Palestinians in its cities.

The Palestinian health ministry said at least 158 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since January. Israel’s foreign ministry said 20 Israelis and two foreign nationals have been killed in Palestinian attacks in the same period.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317821/middle-east

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Macron names French ex-minister Lebanon special envoy

June 07, 2023

PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron has named his former foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as his personal envoy for Lebanon, in a new bid to end the country’s political crisis, the presidency said on Wednesday.

Le Drian will be charged with helping to find a “consensual and efficient” solution to the crisis which has intensified after the deadly 2020 Beirut port explosion, said a presidential official, asking not to be named.

The official said Le Drian, who served for five years as foreign minister up to 2022, had vast experience in “crisis management” and would be heading to Lebanon “very soon.”

Lebanon is facing a political crisis as factions struggle to agree on a new president while an economic crisis has seen the living standards of most Lebanese plummet over the last year.

“The situation remains difficult in Lebanon” with a need to “get out of both the political crisis and the economic and financial difficulties,” the official said.

There is an urgent need “to bring together a form of consensus” to allow the election of a president of Lebanon, which has been without a head of state for more than seven months because of the political deadlock.

Macron won praise from observers for heading to Beirut in the immediate aftermath of the explosion to push Lebanon’s leaders into radical reform. But he now faces pressure to follow up on these promises.

Former president Michel Aoun’s term expired last October with no successor lined up.

Since then, there have been 11 parliamentary votes to try to name a new president, but bitter divisions have prevented anyone from garnering enough support to succeed Aoun.

Lebanese lawmakers on Sunday nominated Jihad Azour, an International Monetary Fund regional director and former minister, for president, in a new bid to find a solution.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2317626/middle-east

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UN to launch central archives of Islamic State crimes in Iraq

7 June 2023

UNITED NATIONS — The United Nations will soon launch central archives containing millions of digitized documents that it says provide proof of crimes committed by the Islamic State group in Iraq, an official said Wednesday.

UNITAD, the UN body set up to investigate IS crimes in the country, began its fieldwork five years ago in an effort to bring the jihadists to justice.

“For us, it is absolutely clear that only if we work side by side with Iraqi authorities, in particular with our counterparts in the Iraqi judiciary, UNITAD can be successful,” said the UN’s chief investigator Christian Ritscher.

The German former prosecutor has been looking into a slew of IS atrocities, from murder, torture and mass rape to slavery and genocide.

He says success would mean that perpetrators of “heinous international crimes” are held accountable “through evidence-based trials and before competent courts.”

“I can assure you that there is no shortage of evidence of ISIL crimes in Iraq,” he said, using an alternate acronym for the IS group.

“ISIL was a large-scale bureaucracy that documented and maintained a state-like administrative system.”

Because of this, UNITAD launched a huge project to digitize IS documents “to ensure that this evidence is admissible before any competent court, whether in Iraq or in other states.”

So far, eight million pages of documents in the possession of Iraqi authorities have already been digitized and are already proving useful in the Iraqi judicial system, he said.

The next step will be “establishing a central archive that will be the unified repository of all digitized evidence,” Ritscher added.

In agreement with Iraqi authorities, Ritscher said, the archive will be launched “in the coming days,” and will be located at the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq.

The repository, he added “could be a milestone to founding a comprehensive e-justice system in Iraq which can be upheld as a leading example, not only in the region, but also globally.”

After their meteoric rise in 2014, IS jihadists briefly controlled a third of Iraqi territory.

In December 2017, Iraq claimed victory against IS, but it wasn’t until March 2019 that the radical jihadist group collapsed, losing its last stronghold in neighboring Syria.

Source: timesofisrael.com

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https://www.timesofisrael.com/un-to-launch-central-archives-of-islamic-state-crimes-in-iraq/

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Southeast Asia

 

Man charged with insulting God, Islam and Prophet on Facebook

07-06- 2023

JOHOR BAHRU: A trader claimed trial in the Sessions Court here today on 10 charges of making and initiating transmission of offensive communication mixed with insults against Islam, Allah and the Prophet, through a Facebook account, last April.

Alimuddin Mohd Hayat (pix), 39, pleaded not guilty when six charges were read before Judge Datuk Ahmad Kamal Arifin Ismail and four charges before Judge V. M Mabel Sheela.

According to all the charges, the widower with two children is accused of knowingly making and sending communications that are offensive and insulting Islam, Allah and the Prophet through the Facebook account ‘Ali Tikos’ with the intention of hurting the sensitivity of others.

The message was read at 10 pm on April 26, at a house in the Larkin Public Flats, here.

The accused is charged with committing an offence under Section 233 (1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and can be punished under Section 233 (3) of the same act.

He faces a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year or both and a further fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continues, if convicted.

Earlier, Deputy Public Prosecutor Umar Faiz Abdul Kohar and Noor Idayu Salim offered bail of RM15,000 each for the six charges with one surety.

Alimuddin, who was not represented by a lawyer, requested that the bail be reduced because he has two children under his care and has no regular income.

Judge Ahmad Kamal Ariffin allowed the accused to be bailed at RM9,000 with one surety for the six charges.

In another court, Deputy Public Prosecutor S. Thiviya sought bail of RM10,000 for the four charges.

Judge Mabel Sheela accepted the RM9,000 bail set by Judge Ahmad Kamal Ariffin.

The date for the mention of the case has been set for July 9. – Bernama

Source: thesundaily.my

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https://www.thesundaily.my/local/man-charged-with-insulting-god-islam-and-prophet-on-facebook-NH11075888

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PAS MP wants Interpretation Acts amended to include explanation on use of ‘Allah’

By Soo Wern Jun

Thursday, 08 Jun 2023

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Jasin MP Zulkifli Ismail today proposed an amendment to the Interpretation Acts 1948 and 1967 to include a specific explanation on the usage and the meaning of the word “Allah” to refer to God in Malaysia.

The Opposition lawmaker said doing so will enable the authorities to regulate the use of the word and prevent misunderstanding.

“The amendment should not be seen as a choice but as a must and compulsory.

“This is in light of worrying situations of apostasy and deviant religious teachings,” the PAS politician told a press conference in Parliament with Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin present.

The word “Allah” is a thorny topic in multireligious Malaysia where its Islamic authorities insist its use is exclusive to God in the Muslim context even though other religions like Christianity and Sikhism also use it in their holy books to refer to their Gods.

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/06/08/pas-mp-wants-interpretation-acts-amended-to-include-explanation-on-use-of-allah/73242

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Higher income can be earned ‘the halal way’, Anthony Loke tells civil servants

By Keertan Ayamany

Thursday, 08 Jun 2023

SHAH ALAM, June 8 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke today said civil servants do not have to resort to corruption to get more money.

Calling on civil servants not to go rogue, he said Malaysia would have “tremendous” economic growth, which would in turn enable the government to provide them with better pay and benefits if corruption were curbed.

“Let’s have a higher income the halal way,” he said during a memorandum of understanding signing event between the Port Klang Authority, government agencies and other maritime industry stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in fighting corruption.

“Of course everyone wants better income, a better life, but let’s do this with integrity,” he added at the event that was held at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton in i-City here.

The event also doubled as a congratulatory ceremony for the Port Klang Authority receiving an International Organization for Standardisation Certificate of Compliance for Anti-Bribery Management Systems.

Loke said that the government wants to assure the business community that they will not need to pay for corruption to do business in Malaysia.

“We are here to facilitate that business can be conducted in a friendly manner and with integrity,” he said.

In February Selangor Anti-Corruption Commission director, Datuk Alias Salim said that civil servants were the biggest group detained by the commission for investigations into corruption, irregularities and abuse of power between 2018 and 2022.

Citing the commission’s records, Alias said 170 civil servants were arrested during that period, followed by 84 private workers, 50 civilians and five each involving politicians and individuals from government-linked companies.

In the same news conference, Loke said that investigations were still ongoing regarding an incident yesterday where 13 shipping containers caught fire in the North Port of Klang.

He said he could not confirm or deny speculations that the incident involved falsely declared goods pending the completion of investigations.

“If there were indeed false declarations, that is an irresponsible decision, thus we will need to take strict action against the involved parties,” he said.

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/06/08/higher-income-can-be-earned-the-halal-way-anthony-loke-tells-civil-servants/73244

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Europe

 

The Dundee college where western and Islamic worlds meet is recruiting more local students

June 8 2023

Most Dundee folk won’t have set foot inside Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education – but its head Dr Abi Abubaker hopes more of them will soon will.

The college was Scotland’s first ever institute for Arabic and Islamic studies when it opened in 2001.

It was established with funding from the United Arabic Emirates through the Al-Maktoum Foundation of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, deputy ruler of Dubai.

Currently eight out of 10 of its students are from overseas.

But Dr Abubaker wants to change that by evening the balance between international and Scottish students.

Addressing any misconception that Al-Maktoum College is for Muslims only, Dr Bubaker stressed the institution is for everyone; people of all faiths or none.

He said: “We had incidents in the early days of people walking through the front doors and wanting to take their shoes off, as if they were entering a mosque. Why would they need to do that?

“But that’s another time altogether now, we are firmly established within the city and people understand what we do and why we are here.”

Students come from all over to study at Al-Maktoum College – Africa, the Middle East, Asia and beyond. It has more than 2000 graduates of more than 40 nationalities.

Courses include Islamic finance and Muslim family law, but also business and human resources. There are also beginners evening classes in Arabic language.

Stepping inside, you can see the appeal – it’s small and welcoming, the former Dundee College building aesthetically-pleasing, combining traditional and modern features and with a library stocked with beautifully-inscribed Arabic text and reference books.

Its lecturers are leaders in their fields.

The college is already making inroads to increasing local student numbers, working with schools including Morgan Academy, Grove Academy, Harris Academy, and Dundee and Abertay universities.

Dr Bubaker said: “We already have a good number of young people who are choosing us as a destination after they finish school and we want more of that.

“I would like to think we offer something different from the main colleges and universities.”

The college describes itself as “small in size, big in ambition”, with classes of around 10 students, rather than 20 or 30.

“We are small, we have almost like a family-orientated atmosphere. We can offer a lot of one-to-one care for young people,” said Dr Bubaker.

And he says it has something to offer for those work with Middle Eastern companies or like to travel, teaching both Arabic language and culture.

He said: “Arabic language can be very poetic, and a lot people are interested in learning it just because of the way it sounds.

“People want to go for a holiday in the Middle East, Egypt, Dubai or wherever.

“A lot of businesses work with Middle Eastern firms.

“It’s useful not necessarily to speak it fluently, but at least to have a few phrases or learn about the culture.”

What courses does Al-Maktoum College offer?

Al-Maktoum College, which is SQA-accredited, collaborates with universities for some of its courses, including Dundee, Abertay and Trinity College in Dublin.

These include Islamic finance and Muslim family law, but also business and human resource management.

Source: thecourier.co.uk

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https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/education/higher-education/4454950/al-maktoum-college-dundee-students/

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14 yr old Muslim boy dies after unexplained ‘incident’ at Scottish school

7th June 2023

A 14-year-old Muslim boy, named locally as Hamdan Khaliq, has died following an unexplained incident at a Scottish secondary school.

Police were called to St Kentigern’s Academy in West Lothian, following reports of “concern” for a student.

The pupil was taken to hospital but died shortly after, with counselling set up for other students following the incident.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 1.20pm on Tuesday June 6, 2023, officers were called to a report of concern for a 14-year-old boy at a school in the Bathgate area.

“He was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment, but died a short time later. His family have been informed and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.”

Family members have taken to social media to say that Hamdan was being bullied.

His cousin Sana Khaliq said he had lost his life “during break time” and “suffered a horrible death whilst many stood around and watched.” She also denied rumours that Hamdan died after taking part in Tik Tok trend “Tap Out” which causes people to pass out due to a lack of oxygen.

Another relative, Zain Mohammed, said Hamdan had been “put in a chokehold” by “a boy who’s been bullying him.” He added: “The worst thing about it is that it’s being passed off as a game they were playing called tap out. This wasn’t the case. He was being singled out and bullied for being different.”

However, a statement posted on the school’s website did not address the speculation.

“We can confirm that emergency services were called to St Kentigern’s Academy earlier today (Tuesday) following an isolated incident within the school grounds.

“All parents of pupils directly affected have been contacted and we are assisting the relevant authorities with their ongoing inquiries. We have set up emotional support and signposting for students affected by today’s incident and are unable to comment further at this time due to an ongoing police investigation.”

Headteacher Andrew Sharkey added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with their family and friends and we extend our deepest condolences and offers of support.

“We have set up ongoing emotional support and signposting for students and staff affected by this tragic news. We would like to respect the family’s privacy at this incredibly painful time.

“We are assisting the relevant authorities with their investigation to establish the facts and we will not be making any further comment at this time.”

Source: 5pillarsuk.com

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https://5pillarsuk.com/2023/06/07/14-yr-old-muslim-boy-dies-after-unexplained-incident-at-scottish-school/

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Southampton Muslim centre wins approval despite objections

08-06-23

A Muslim centre in Woolston has been given permission to stay by Southampton City Council after a retrospective planning application led to 84 objections.

The Woolston Learning Centre has been on Victoria Road in Woolston for six years and offers education for children, reading groups for women – and Friday prayer.

However, it recently came to light that the premises didn’t have proper planning permission and bosses had to apply.

This led to 84 residents objecting to the centre – and 42 supporting it.

The objectors cited concerns over parking, noise disturbance and members congregating on the street outside – despite the centre having never received a single complaint.

Rashidul Islam, secretary of the Muslim Council in Southampton, prior to Tuesday’s planning meeting, accused objectors of ‘finding any excuse’ to ‘divide the community’.

He said the truth is some residents just don’t want to see a Muslim centre in Woolston.

The Muslim population of Woolston is almost three times lower than in the city as a whole at just over two per cent, compared to the city’s just under six per cent.

Ibrahim Sen, a member of the Woolston Learning Centre attended the planning meeting to share his support for the centre.

He said: “We haven’t received one single complaint.

“It’s only when this matter has been brought to attention that there is a campaign to say we are building a big mosque in the centre of Woolston – which was misleading.”

Mr Sen made comparisons between their 50 metre squared premises and the Medina Mosque in the city centre which is ’20 times the size’.

A consensus amongst members of the Woolston Learning Centre and the Muslim community is that their centre was wrongly being referred to as a ‘new’ mosque by campaigners in order to incite parking and mass-visitor fears among residents.

The centre is one shop front which has gone more or less unnoticed by residents since 2017.

The retrospective planning application was approved unanimously by the city council’s planning panel – and the centre can continue to run.

Source: dailyecho.co.uk

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https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/23574086.southampton-muslim-centre-wins-approval-despite-objections/

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Pentagon defends LGBT priorities

8 Jun, 2023

US Department of Defense officials have decried new laws in various states that push back against LGBTQ activism – such as bans on sex-change surgeries for children – arguing that the legislation could undermine the readiness of America’s military.

“LGBTQ+ and other diverse communities are under attack just because they are different – hate for hate’s sake,” chief DOD diversity officer Gil Cisneros said on Wednesday at a Pentagon event celebrating Pride Month. “But we must stick together, and we must be prepared to confront any such challenge directly.”

Cisneros was referring to bills passed or proposed in more than a dozen Republican-controlled states on LGBTQ-related issues. Some US states have outlawed giving hormone blockers or sex-change surgeries to minors and prohibited schools from counseling children on gender identity without parental consent. Florida has banned classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation, targeting curriculums that Governor Ron DeSantis has condemned as “indoctrination.”

US Space Force chief of space operations, Lieutenant General DeAnna Burt, argued that such laws could weaken the nation’s military, and “demonstrates a trend that could be dangerous for service members, their families and the readiness of the force as a whole.”

Alex Wagner, the US Air Force’s top manpower and reserve affairs official, raised similar concerns at an event on Tuesday, saying troops at some bases had to be relocated.

“If servicemembers are thinking and concerned about the experience their kids are having, they’re not going to be focused on their jobs,” Wagner said. “They’re not gonna be focused on their mission.”

Republican lawmakers have criticized the Pentagon for adopting “woke” policies, such as teaching cadets critical race theory and promoting transgender ideology, since President Joe Biden took office in 2021. Conservatives also have argued that the DOD’s diversity and inclusion programs have contributed to recruiting struggles.

Citing a 2020 poll claiming that 20% of Americans ages 18 to 25 identify as LGBTQ, Burt warned that military recruiting efforts could be hurt by improper policies and messaging.

“Those barriers are a threat to our readiness, and they have a direct correlation to the resiliency and well-being of our most important operational advantage: our people,” she said.

The DOD has responded to some of the conservative backlash, drawing the ire of LGBTQ activists. Pressed by US Representative Matt Gaetz, a Florida Republican, on why military bases were hosting “drag queen story hours” for children, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said such events wouldn’t be allowed on DOD properties. A drag show scheduled for earlier this month at Nevada’s Nellis Air Force Base was canceled.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/577676-pentagon-lgbt-pride-event/

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