First India-Ahmedabad Edition-06 August 2020

OUR EDITIONS: JAIPUR & AHMEDABAD

CORONA

27°C - 35°C

ALERT AHMEDABAD l THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020 l Pages 12 l 3.00 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208 l Vol 1 l Issue No. 252

COVID-19 UPDATE

WORLD

7,07,158 1,88,34,955 CONFIRMED CASES

DEATHS

MAHARASHTRA 16,476 DEATHS 4,68,265 CASES

TAMIL NADU 4,461 DEATHS 2,73,460 CASES

INDIA

40,732 19,59,822 DEATHS

DELHI 4,044 DEATHS 1,40,232 CASES

CONFIRMED CASES

GUJARAT

2,557 DEATHS

KARNATAKA 2,804 DEATHS 1,51,449 CASES

‘RAM IS EVERYWHERE! Wait of centuries has ended’

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66,777

CONFIRMED CASES

RAJASTHAN 745 DEATHS 47,845 CASES

Lord Ram living in tents for years, will finally get a temple, said PM while laying first brick for Ram Temple

Today, Ram Janmbhoomi breaks free of the cycle of breaking and getting built again - that had been going on for centuries.” PM Narendra Modi First India Bureau Ayodhya: The wait of centuries has ended, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said after performing the groundbreaking ceremony in Ayodhya for Ram Mandir.

Returning to the temple town of Ayodhya after nearly 30 years, Prime Minister Modi, clad in a traditional golden coloured dhotikurta, performed the ‘bhoomi pujan’ of the proposed Ram Mandir.

Sending out the message that “Ram is everywhere, Ram belongs to all”, Modi said the temple symbolises India’s rich heritage and will be an inspiration to all of humanity.

Across the country, people remained glued to their television sets as Modi performed rituals at the Ram Janmabhoomi, the site of a bitter Hindu-Muslim conflict that lasted decades before being settled by the Supreme Court last year.

Beginning his speech with Jai Siya Ram, the PM told the gathering that a grand temple will now be built for Ram La-

lla, the infant Ram, who had been living in a temporary tent for years.

“Many people made sacrifices for the Ram temple. I pay my respects to all of them,” he said in the speech that followed the laying of the foundation for the Ram temple. “Ram Mandir will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It’ll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of the collective resolution of crores of people. It will keep inspiring the future generations,” Modi said.

He also released a postage stamp to mark the event, an occasion which is also being seen as an ideological victory of the BJP over its rivals.

Some of the leaders of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, including former deputy prime minister LK Advani were not at among the 175 people invited to the venue, with the organisers keeping the guest list short because of the threat of COVID-19.

Turn on P6

India is creating a glorious chapter in history in the presence of the Lord Bhaskara (Sun god) on the bank of Saryu river today. From Kanyakumari to Ksheer Bhawani, Koteshwar to Kamakhya, Jagannath to Kedarnath, Somnath to Kashi Vishwanath, Bodh Gaya to Sarnath, Amritsar Sahib to Patna Sahib, Andaman to Ajmer, Sammed Shikhar to Shravanabelagola, Lakshadweep to Leh —Narendra Modi, PM

Beirut blast toll reaches 113, over 4,000 injured Beirut: The powerful blast in the port of Lebanon’s Beirut left 113 people killed and more than 4,000 injured, Lebanese Health Minister Hamad Hassan said on Wednesday, as cited by Sky News Arabia.

Earlier in the day, the Health Minister’s adviser, Reda Al Moussawi, told Sputnik that the death toll from the blast stood at 108. Beirut has already received humanitarian assistance from Kuwait, Qatar and Greece, Al Moussawi

HISTORY IN MAKING

PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI ALONG WITH RSS CHIEF MOHAN BHAGWAT, UP GOVERNOR ANANDIBEN PATEL & OTHERS PERFORMS BHOOMI PUJAN AT ‘SHREE RAM JANMBHOOMI MANDIR’, IN AYODHYA, ON WEDNESDAY. —PHOTO BY PTI

Shah attributes historic Lord Ram unique in our event to mentor Modi! culture, civilisation: Gehlot First India Bureau

New Delhi: Today Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra have paid respect to the faith of crores of people by performing ‘bhoomi pujan’ of Ram temple, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday.

Taking to Twitter, Shah wrote (roughly translated from Hindi), “The construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya has been a symbol of the faith of Hindus around the world for centuries. Today Prime

Home Minister Amit Shah

Minister Narendra Modi and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra have done the work of paying respect

to the faith of crores of people by performing bhoomi pujan of Ram temple, for this, Turn on P6

Jaipur: Chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said the focus should be on establishing an egalitarian society based on the values espoused by Lord Ram, who holds a unique place in our culture and civilization.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi was performing the Ram Mandir Bhumi Pujan rituals in Ayodhya, Gehlot in his tweet said, “Lord Ram holds a unique place in our culture & civilization. His

Impugned resolution & actions of govt has divided sections of society: HC The court called into question the state’s intentions regarding the fee issue

PMO INDIA @PMOINDIA Shocked and saddened by the large explosion in Beirut city leading to loss of life and property. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the injured

said, adding that the authorities were waiting for aid from other countries, including Russia, France, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Turn on P6

Haresh Jhala Ahmedabad: The state high court has observed, in an order, that “the state government’s impugned resolution and actions has divided sections of the society.”

The court is of the view that parents should only be liable to pay tuition fees and the schools must not levy any other charges or fees on them.

It also questioned the

state’s intentions by asking why the government had not waived the tuition fees of medical colleges run by it.

The principal bench comprising Chief Justice Vikram Nath and Justice JB Pardiwala, while disposing the petition moved by Self-Financed School Management Association of Gujarat, observed, “There is a need to balance the interests of all

stakeholders, students and families of students on one side and the teaching community on the other side.”

The court essentially remarked that it wants all shareholders to shoulder the responsibilities created by novel coronavirus pandemic’s adverse impact. It further observed, “The impugned resolution and the actions of the state have the effect of dividing sec-

tions of the society.”

It also clearly directed school managements not to charge any extra fees from parents.

“Schools should not charge any fees apart from tuition fees. No fees for extra-curricular activities should be charged. The tuition fees collected by schools will cover the salaries, establishments and curricular activities, Turn on P6

ASHOK GEHLOT @ASHOKGEHLOT51 Lord Ram holds a unique place in our culture & civilization. His life teaches us the importance of truth, justice, equality of all, compassion & brotherhood. We need to focus on establishing an egalitarian society based on the values espoused by #LordRam.

life teaches us the importance of truth, justice, equality of all, compassion and brotherhood. We need to focus on establishing an egalitarian society based on the values es-

poused by #LordRam.” “May Lord Ram’s temple become a symbol of unity and brotherhood in our country,” he said, adding #RamMandir as a hashtag.

—With Agency Inputs

J&K LG resigns, Mehrishi expected to step in?

New Delhi: Exactly a year after the GoI announced abrogation of Article 370 as well as bifurcation of the state of J&K into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir LG Girish Chandra Murmu on Wednesday sent his resignation to President Ram Nath Kovind, said sources. Murmu is set to be the next CAG of India taking over from Rajiv Mehrishi, who will retire this week.

Sources add that former Home Secy Mehri-

Rajiv Mehrishi GC Murmu

shi may be the new LG of J&K. Notably, Murmu recently courted controversy while giving statement regarding election timing in J&K on which the Election Commission had taken exception.

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02

WHY

JUNAGADH?

WHY NOW?

The timing of Pak’s inclusion of the former princely state in its new map is not coincidental Gargi Raval Ahmedabad: Pakistan’s decision to include Junagadh alongside Jammu, Kashmir, Siachen and Sir Creek in its new political map is no coincidence.

Coming as it does a day before the first anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, it is an effort to revive an issue was put to bed a long time ago.

As Head of the department of history at Saurashtra University, Professor Prafulla Raval points out, while Junagadh became a part of the union of India through a fair democratic process, there was a short while during which the former princely state was part of Pakistan.

“Today, we don’t think of Junagadh as an ‘issue’ but, at one point in time, it was considered to be disputed territory,” Raval says.

“However, about two lakh people in Junagadh and its feudatory states voted in a referendum on whether to join India or Pakistan in February 1948 and

just 130 people wanted to go with Pakistan. Hence, the state was integrated into India with the support of its people,” she explains.

As many as 1,90,779 registered voters from Junagadh cast their votes in favour of India in the referendum on February 20, 1948, while 91 voted in favour of joining Pakistan. From the six neighbouring territo-

ries, only 39 favoured Pakistan, while 31,405 voted to become part of India.

“At the time--in 1947-48—the princely state of Junagadh had a mixed population of Hindus and Muslims but was headed by a Muslim ruler, Nawab Muhammad Mahabat Khan III. When the British gave the princely states the choice of acceding

RESULTS OF THE REFERENDUM HELD IN FEBRUARY 1948 PLACE

FAVOUR INDIA

FAVOUR PAKISTAN

Junagadh

1,90,779

91

Mangrol

11,833

08

Manavadar

8,436

11

Babariyawad

5,392

08

Sardargadh

3,241

02

Bantva m

1,091

10

Bantva n

1,412

0

Total

2,22,184

130

to India or Pakistan or to remain outside them, the Nawab announced that Junagadh had acceded to Pakistan,” Raval explained, adding, “The people did not like this.”

Neither did India, especially since Junagadh did not share a border with Pakistan and its primary port of Veraval was almost 500km away from Karachi. Even-

tually, the people of Junagadh and the newly independent nation of India came together to overturn the accession. Soon, India amassed troops, feudatory states of Junagadh except Manavadar acceded, and a parallel government (Arzi Hukumat— temporary government--under Shamaldas Gandhi, the nephew of Nephew

Pakistan’s behaviour is really irresponsible.

I don’t know what they are up to, but there’s nothing new in this. They are known to make such claims.

We’ve never had good relations with Pakistan.

—Ghanshyam Shah, scholar

Mahabat Maqbara, a mausoleum built by Nawab Mahabat Khan II in the late 19th century remains an enduring symbold of the erstwhile princely state of Junagadh.

of Mahatma Gandhi) was declared in Junagadh in September 1947. The Nawab fled to Pakistan, leaving the state in the hands of his dewan, Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto.

Alongside the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan took Junagadh to the United Nations, where it fizzled.

In November 1947, Bhutto held talks with Samaldas Gandhi, asking him to take over the administration and restore law and order.

However, a day later, on the urging of Muslim residents, he asked the government of India to directly take over the administration of Junagadh through the regional commissioner at Rajkot. The handover to MN Buch, Rajkot Commissioner, took place on November 9.

Interestingly, before he began talks with Gandhi, Jinnah reportedly offered to “let go” of Junagadh for Kashmir. India had indicated that it would want to formalize the arrangement through a plebiscite. And in February, the people of Junagadh decided to stay with India.

Struggle of years ended with Ram temple ‘bhoomi pujan’: Rupani Ahmedabad: Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Wednesday said the struggle of several years materialized with the 'bhoomi pujan' of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, and that this day will be written in golden letters in history books.

The beginning of construction of a grand temple of Lord Ram on Wednesday proves that the BJP always fulfils its commitments, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday performed the 'bhoomi pujan' of a Supreme Court-mandated

Ram temple in Ayodhya, bringing to fruition the BJP's 'Ram mandir' movement that defined its politics for three decades.

RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) chief Mohan Bhagwat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were among those who attended the event at the site where a large number of devout Hindus believe Lord Ram was born.

"Jay Shree Ram! August 5 will be written in golden letters in the history books of the 21st century. Five decades, 500 years of penance

CM Vijay Rupani watching the live telecast of Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir bhoomi pujan in Ayodhya.

Senior BJP party leaders watching the live telecast from Ayodhya at the party headquarters in Gandhinagar on Wednesday.

—PHOTOS BY HANIF SINDHI

Party workers arrange flowers around a huge painting of the Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir created, at the BJP headquarters in Gandhinagar, to mark the bhoomi pujan festivities.

and struggle materialized today with the 'bhoomi pujan' of Ram Lalla's temple," Rupani said in a video message.

"The slogan - 'We swear by Ram that temple will surely be built there at Ayodhya' - has been realized today. A Diwali like celebration has gripped the entire nation. Many Gujaratis made a contribution in the 'kar seva' for building this temple," the BJP leader said.

He credited the "two sons of Gujarat's soil" Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah - for the harmoni-

ous atmosphere in which the 'bhoomi pujan' was held at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday.

"We always do what we promise. This is BJP's commitment. If coronavirus was not there, today's event would have become the biggest religious congregation. I am sure the construction of Ram temple would lead to nation-building and take India ahead with pride," Rupani said.

He watched live coverage of the 'bhoomi pujan' on a large screen at his official residence in Gandhinagar. —PTI

To celebrate the bhoomi pujan of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel performed a maha aarti and puja along with members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Dilip Dasji, senior priest of the Jagannath Temple at the VHP office in Paldi area of Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

GUJARAT AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

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03

power supply Guj gets 25K Rapid Antigen 10-hour for agri activities: Govt Test kits every other day First India Bureau

Govt says no dearth of testing as 1,073 new cases, 23 deaths take tally to 66,777 and death toll to 2,557 Gandhinagar: The state, which says it tested 24,374 samples in the past 24 hours and claims to be conducting 374.98 tests Per Million Per Day, receives a supply of 25,000 Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits every alternate day, according to government sources.

With 1,073 cases and 23 deaths being reported from across the state, Gujarat has now witnessed 66,777 cases of COVID-19 and lost 2,557 people to the disease.

There are currently 14,814 active cases, of which 76 are on ventilator support.

Additional Director of the state health department, Dr Prakash Vaghela told First India, “There is no dearth of kits or testing. Staterun laboratories have a daily testing capacity of 8,000. Plus, the state

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

First India Bureau

Three tyres and a cop constitute a ‘COVID-19 checkpost’ on the outskirts of Ahmedabad.

receives about 25,000 RAT kits every other day. We are now conducting COVID-19 tests for anyone who wants to take one.”

The state has been conducting between 25,000 and 29,000 tests every day.

In the past 24 hours, the highest number of cases were reported in Surat, at 237; 187 in the

35-55% seats vacant in technical education courses First India Bureau Ahmedabad: The shambolic state of technical education in Gujarat, facilitated by the government’s permissive attitude in allowing private parties to open colleges, has resulted in 35-50% of seats in degree and diploma courses remaining vacant, the Opposition party said on Wednesday.

“The education department doesn’t have a road map or any direction to follow,” chief spokesperson of the Congress party Manish Doshi alleged.

“In degree and diploma courses in technical disciplines, around 35-55% of the seats remain vacant,” he said, blaming the sorry state of technical education in the state, which he then attributed to the government’s lack of discretion in permitting private players to open

DATA BREAKDOWN

city and 50 in rural areas. There are 344 active cases in the local Civil Hospital and COVID-19 ward, of which 14 are on ventilator support, 35 on BiPAP machines, and 277 on oxygen. SMIMER is treating 157 patients, nine of whom are on ventilators, 31 of whom are on BiPAP machines and 77 of whom are on oxygen support.

Hitesh Lathia, the Resident Medical Officer at Surat’s Venus Hospital succumbed to the novel coronavirus on Wednesday morning. He had been working in the COVID-19 ward for more than a month.

State- and private-run buses will not ferry passengers to or from Surat until August 12. The state discontinued mass

transportation services in the last week of July to control the pandemic.

In the past 24 hours, Ahmedabad reported 161 fresh cases, Vadodara had 115, Rajkot, 80, Bhavnagar, 47, Jamnagar, 46, Amreli, 30, Kutch and Gandhinagar, 27 each, Jamnagar, 25, Mehsana and Morbi, 24 each, Surendranagar, 22, and Bharuch, 21.

Gandhinagar: The state government on Wednesday took a decision to provide power supply for 10 hours a day from August 7, to facilitate agricultural activities in the state. The move comes after the government received demands from farmers in the Central and North Gujarat regions.

While making the announcement regarding the resolution, State Energy Minister Saurabh Patel said, “The second spell of rains has become prolonged and farmers fear their crops may be destroyed. In order to protect their crops, they need to irrigate water and for that they need power supply. After taking their requests into consideration, the state has decided to supply power for 10 hours per day instead of the current duration of seven hours.”

There are 4.80 lakh horsepower agriculture

added, that most of the newly permitted colleges do not have experienced staff, laboratories or libraries.

“Many of these colleges run on contract staff. More than 55,000 small and medium enterprises have shut down their business and there is no recruitment. Due to this now the youth have lost interest in these disciplines,” he said.

base power connections in the state with most of them scattered in the North Gujarat, Saurashtra and Central Gujarat regions. These areas receive less rainfall as compared to other parts of the state, thereby making them more dependent on underground water for agriculture. In order to fetch the water, the farmers need adequate power supply.

In the beginning of the monsoon season this year, Saurashtra received heavy rainfall, which damaged crops to some extent. When the farmers raised the

—FILE PHOTO

issue with the state government seeking compensation, the latter directed the state agriculture department to conduct a damage survey.

Based on the survey’s results, the government will release compensation from the State Disaster Response Fund.

Last year, the state government had announced a special relief package of Rs3,795 crore for farmers, as unseasonal rainfall from October to December had damaged standing crops on a large scale.

Around 17 lakh farmers were covered under the relief package.

‘Active monsoon’ to bring more rains

RELIGIOUS FERVOUR

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

colleges.

“There is an institution called the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) which has been established by the parliament. In the last five years, AICTE has been giving rampant permission to private bodies to open the colleges,” alleged Doshi, who

Sorry state of colleges and limited job prospects to blame, Congress alleges

A farmer tends his field.

Wednesday evening brought a dust storm, seen here over the Sabarmati river, and a little rain to Ahmedabad.

First India Bureau

A man dressed as Lord Hanuman lights a string of fireworks in celebration of the bhoomi pujan of Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi temple, in Ahmedabad’s Usmanpura area on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

Some relief for MBBS students First India Bureau Ahmedabad: The state high court on Wednesday directed the state government as well as the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) against taking any coercive action against third-year MBBS students until its next hearing.

Justice SH Vora, after

hearing arguments of both the parties, orally directed the state government not to prosecute or initiate actions against any student until the matter is heard by the court.

Meanwhile, advocate Anand Yagnik, appearing on behalf of the students, objected and submitted that the students will have to face prosecu-

They have challenged a circular forcing them to work in COVID-19 wards tion under the Disaster Management Act, if the matter was not heard by the court as per the current roster.

In a petition, MBBS

students have challenged the circular issued by the state government making it mandatory for them to render their services in COVID-19 wards. In support of their protest against the circular, the students stated that with their exams set to take place in December or January next year, they only had a few months to prepare.

Ahmedabad: The monsoon is active again over the state, especially over the Saurashtra- Kutch region. Due to the active monsoon, extremely heavy rainfall occurred at isolated places in Valsad district. Very heavy rainfall occurred at isolated places in Surat, Dwarka, Amreli, and Junagadh.

A lightning strike in Amreli’s Lathi jolted some houses but caused no injuries.

There were very heavy rain spells at isolated places in the district of the South Gujarat region namely Valsad and in Daman; in

the districts of Saurashtra namely Gir Somnath, Amreli, Porbandar and Morbi.

The weather is expected to remain the same for the next three days under a cyclonic circulation. At present, there is a cyclonic circulation over South Gujarat and neighbourhood extending from 1.5 to 4.5 km above mean sea level persists. A trough line from this cyclonic circulation to the associated cyclonic circulation of a wellmarked low-pressure area over Northwest Bay of Bengal adjoining north Odisha and West Bengal coast extending from 5.8 to 7.6 km above mean sea level persists.

LESSON LEARNT?

State HC schools lawyer on three elementary principles of advocacy Principal bench of CJ Vikram Nath & Justice JB Pardiwala called out an advocate for wasting the court’s time 

First India Bureau Ahmedabad: While disposing of a service matter, the state high court while disposing of a service matter extended pointers to the petitioner’s advocate on learning the three elementary principles of advoca-

cy to become a successful lawyer. The court was compelled to remind the advocate of these principles on account of the fact that it took over an hour for it to convince him that the case held no merit.

A principal bench comprising Chief Jus-

tice Vikram Nath and Justice JB Pardiwala was hearing an appeal moved by Mahavirshin

Jadeja through his advocate Anand Gogia.

While passing the order on the case, the court

noted, “For any lawyer to be successful, one should keep in mind the three elementary prin-

ciples of advocacy: what to argue, what not to argue and when to draw a line and stop. It is very essential for any upcoming lawyer to keep these three elementary principles of advocacy in mind.”

The court had to remind the advocate of these principles, because the matter it was hearing should have concluded in no time. However, it took more than an hour for the court to convince the petitioner’s advocate

that he had no case, and that it was not inclined to disturb the order passed by the single bench judge.

It also observed, “Wasting even fifteen minutes in each working session of the court on account of unnecessary prolonged submission at the insistence of the learned advocate works out to a loss of at least two full working days in a month.

If this happens in ten

courts, the loss would be twenty working days of one court. It means that the effective judge strength of the courts will be reduced to at least one judge.”

“Therefore, lawyers and judges should conduct their work keeping the interest of those who await for the outcome of the process and who have no say in their grooming at the forefront,” remarked the court.

PERSPECTIVE AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

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IN-DEPTH

TEMPLE PROMISE KEPT, IT IS TIME TO LOOK AHEAD

04

DEFECTION UNDER TENTH SCHEDULE

OF CONSTITUTION OF INDIA

A

500-year-old dispute finally ended on August 5 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing a ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. For millions of Hindus across the globe the moment filled with religious fervour was historic and memorable. After abrogation of Article 370 ending special status enjoyed by Jammu & Kashmir, Ram temple construction has been a major poll plank of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, an adjunct of the Rashtriya Swayam Sewak Sangh. “Not only is history being written with this temple, but history is also being repeated,” the prime minister said. It indeed is.

Wednesday’s grand ceremony came after a lot of blood was spilled on the streets of Ayodhya and the country before and after the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Supreme Court described it as “an egregious violation of the rule of law. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, “The destruction of the mosque took place in breach of the order of status quo and an assurance given to this court.” As a remedy the court ordered five acres of land to be given to Muslims “at a prominent place in Ayodhya”.

The land has been allocated and temple construction is set to begin, one would hope that the country will move ahead putting the long and bloody history behind. A faction of Muslims has accepted the judgment and also the land but AllIndia Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has neither accepted the SC verdict nor reconciled to the idea of Ram temple where the Babri mosque once stood. In a tweet on the eve of bhoomi pujan the BMAC issued a statement drawing parallel with the Hagia Sophia, a 1500 years old cathedral which has been converted into a mosque in Turkey. #BabriMasjid was and will always be a Masjid. #HagiaSophia is a great example for us. Usurpation of the land by an unjust, oppressive, shameful and majority appeasing judgment can’t change its status. No need to be heart-broken. Situations don’t last forever. #ItsPolitics,” the tweet said. The majority community has so far refrained from firing a riposte and, hopefully, will exercise restraint in their response.

Politics today is majoritarian. Modi, Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath are strong leaders who stand firm in their faith. They do realize that peace and harmony are prerequisites for country’s development but won’t give any quarter to those disturbing peace. While dealing with minorities India should take a few lessons from Indonesia which has biggest Muslim population. The prime minister mentioned Indonesia’s different Ramayans to say that Ram is worshipped in several countries.

Lord Ganesh and Bali’s famous temple have figured on the currency of Indonesia. Central to these features is peace and harmony.

JUSTICE SHIV KUMAR SHARMA Former Judge Rajasthan High Court and Ex-Member of Law Commission of India

P It is a talk of the town that why the legal exercise is being done at a belated stage.

Interpretation of paragraph 4 of the Tenth Schedule is the crux of the matter.

rovisions as to disqualification on the ground of defection are enumerated in Tenth Schedule appended to the Constitution of India.

These days, the merger of all the six MLAs of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) with the Indian National Congress is a hot topic in Rajasthan. The merger had taken place somewhere in the month of September in 2019.

All the six members of BSP moved an application before the Speaker for getting themselves merged with the Indian National Congress and the Speaker agreed and passed order accordingly.

We will scan here the legal provisions of the merger and relevant case law.

Para 4 of Tenth Schedule reads as under“4. Disqualification on ground of defection not to apply in case of merger(1)A member of a House shall not be disqualified under sub paragraph (1) of paragraph 2 where his original political

party merges with another political party and he claims that he and any other members of his original political party(a) have become members of such other political party or, as the case may be, of a new political party formed by such merger; or (b) have not accepted the merger and opted to function as a separate group; and from the time of such merger, such other political party or new political party or group, as the case may be, shall be deemed to be the political party to which he belongs for the purposes of sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 2 and to be his original party for the purposes of this sub-paragraph.

(2) For the purposes of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, the merger of the original political party of a member of a House shall be deemed to have taken place if, and only if, and less than two-thirds of the members of the legislature party concerned have agreed to such merger.”

The question is, whether the merger of all the six members of BSP legislative party in Rajasthan with the Congress party comes within sub-para (2) of paragraph 4 since more than two-third MLAs had agreed to merge

THESE DAYS, THE MERGER OF ALL THE SIX MLAs OF BAHUJAN SAMAJ PARTY (BSP) WITH THE INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS IS A HOT TOPIC IN RAJASTHAN. THE MERGER HAD TAKEN PLACE SOMEWHERE IN SEPTEMBER 2019

with congress party.

The merger had taken place in the month of September 2019, wide publicity was given in prominent newspapers/channels but till more than 10 months later, neither State Unit nor National Unit raised any objection to such a merger.

Can it not be presumed that implied consent was given to such a merger?

Jagjeet Singh Vs. State of Haryana (2006) 11 SCC 1 and Rajendra Singh Rana Vs. Swamy Prasad Morya (2007) 4 SCC 270 are the relevant case law.

However, there is a distin-

Young men, alienation and violence in the digital age

A

s the world was forced into lockdown at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alex Lee Moyer’s documentary “TFW No GF” was released online. The film focuses on an internet subculture of predominately young, white men who already experienced much of life from the comfort of their own homes, pandemic notwithstanding.

Its title, a reference to the 4chan-originated phrase “that feel when no girlfriend,” reveals the essence of its subjects’ grievances described in the South by Southwest (SXSW) film festival program as first a “lack of romantic companionship,” then evolving to “a greater state of existence defined by isolation, rejection and alienation.” As one of the film’s subjects remarks early on: “Everyone my

age kinda just grows up on the internet … 4chan was the only place that seemed real… I realized there were other people going through the same shit.”

What does this level of alienation tell us about society today? And how seriously should we take the content found on this online patchwork of messaging boards and forums, each with its own language and visual culture that may at first seem humorous or ironic, but often disguises misogyny, racism and violence? These are difficult and urgent questions, particularly given the emergent incel phenomenon — “incel” being a portmanteau of “involuntary celibate” — which appears to be gaining in strength online.

VIRTUAL EXPRESSIONS The idea of virtual expres-

AS COVID-19 FORCES MORE OF US TO SHIFT OUR LIVES ONLINE, IT IS ESSENTIAL TO UNDERSTAND AND COMBAT DEEPLY ENTRENCHED LONELINESS AND ITS POTENTIAL TO INTERSECT WITH EXTREME AND VIOLENT CORNERS OF THE INTERNET

sions of alienation and rage translating to actual violence remains a real and present danger, as we were reminded of this May when a teenager became the first Canadian to be charged with incel-inspired terrorism. The documentary, however, avoids confronting the violence that this subculture often glorifies, and the director has since stated that the film was never supposed to be about incels but

that it had become impossible to discuss it without the term coming up.

As it turns out, the men we meet in “TFW No GF” appear to be largely harmless — except perhaps to themselves — and despite the documentary’s lack of narrative voice, it takes a patently empathetic stance. Set against the backdrop of industrial landscapes and empty deserts, this is a United States in decline. Here, role models and opportunities lie thin on the ground, and the closest thing to “community” exists in virtual realms. Each self-described NEET — slang for “not in education, employment or training” — has his own tale of alienation: of alcoholic parents, dead friends or a disenfranchisement with the school system.

For those who study internet subcultures, the

memes of Pepe the Frog and Wojak explored in the film will be familiar. Pepe is used as a reaction image, typically in the guises of “feels good man,” and “smug/angry/sad Pepe” and, although not created to have racist connotations, is frequently used in bigoted contexts by the alt-right. Wojak, AKA “feels guy,” is typically depicted as a bald man with a depressed expression.

One of the documentary’s subjects, “Kantbot,” explains that you “can’t have one without the other … that’s the duality of man.” For these men, Pepe represents the troll self, a public persona that embodies their smug and cocky traits. Wojak denotes a more private and vulnerable self, typified by inadequacy, unfulfillment and sadness.

FOR FULL REPORT LOG ON TO WWW.FAIROBSERVER.COM

guishable feature in these authorities. The ratio of these cases relates to the split of the party.

Merger of all the MLA’s of the party with another party and split of a party are two different issues.

Full Bench decision of Punjab High Court in Madan Mohan Mittal Vs. Speaker (1997)3 Punjab LR 374(FB) para8 indicated as under“...thus it is clear that Parliament intended to treat the State unit of a political party as a separate entity for the purpose of determining whether there is any disqualification of a member of the House of that State legislature belonging to that political party. Likewise for the purpose of merger within the meaning of para4, two-thirds of the members of State legislature party must have agreed to the merger.

During the earlier tenure of congress party in Rajasthan (2008-2013), all the six MLA’s of BSP got themselves merged with congress party but no objection was ever raised by BSP. It is a talk of the town that why the legal exercise is being done at a belated stage. Interpretation of paragraph 4 of the Tenth Schedule is the crux of the matter.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Top

TWEET Piyush Goyal @PiyushGoyal Lord Shri Ram is an integral part of our culture, his life is an ideal for us. With the construction of Sri Ram temple, the holy city of Ayodhya will emerge as a cultural center in the world with its full splendor, and will ensure economic development with spirituality.

Shashi Tharoor @ShashiTharoor Lord ShriRam epitomises justice for all, righteous conduct, fairness&firmness in all dealings, moral rectitude &courage. These values are much needed in such dark times. If they spread throughout the land, Ram Rajya would not be an occasion for triumphalist bigotry. #JaiShriRam!

Spiritual SPEAK

Abandoning all paths, come to Me as the only refuge.

Grieve not, for I will liberate you from all sins.

—Bhagavad Gita 18:66

Vol 1 Issue No. 252 RNI NO. GUJENG/2019/16208. Printed and published by Anita Hada Sangwan on behalf of First Express Publishers. Printed at Bhaskar Printing Planet Survey No.148P, Changodar-Bavla Highway, Tal. Sanand, Dist. Ahmedabad.

Published at D/302 3rd Floor Plot No. 35 Titanium Square, Scheme No. 2, Thaltej Taluka, Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad. Editor: Jagdeesh Chandra, responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

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TEMPLE WILL BE EPITOME OF NOT ONLY LORD RAM’S GREATNESS, BUT OF INDIA’S TOO: YOGI Ayodhya: Calling the foundation stone laying for Ram temple ‘the most awaited moment of the past 500 years’, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said the temple will not only be the epitome of Lord Ram’s greatness but of India’s too.

“I thank PM Modi for being present today, at the most awaited moment of the past 500 years. We have to implement the work plan prepared by PM Modi. This temple will not only be the epitome of Lord Ram’s greatness but of India’s too,” Adityanath told ANI. “PM Modi’s guidance has always been helpful to us. On behalf of the citizen and countrymen, I am thankful to him for his presence in Ayodhya for the foundation laying ceremony. There will be a grand temple in Ayodhya. This temple will be a symbol of peace and friendship to the world,” he added.

Nine bricks were laid down as part of the ‘bhoomi pujan’ at the site for Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Modi took part in ‘bhoomi pujan’ for the construction of Ram temple.

—ANI

9 bricks laid down at Ram Janmabhoomi temple site

UP CM Yogi Adityanath presents PM Narendra Modi a statue of Lord Rama, in presence of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, after the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ for RamTemple in Ayodhya .

—PHOTO BY ANI

Construction will be done within stipulated time: Mahant Gopal Das Ayodhya: The wishes of devotees will soon be fulfilled with the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, said the president of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Wednesday.

Speaking after the ‘bhoomi pujan’ ceremony, the president of the trust said that countless

Mahant Nritya Gopal Das

devotees will finally be content after the construction gets over within the stipulated time. “I have been asked

many times when will the Ram temple be constructed. I had started saying one side Modi (Prime Minister Narendra Modi), one side Yogi (Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath), if not now, then when will Ram mandir be constructed? Now, it will be constructed soon. The wishes of devotees will be fulfilled,” Das said. —ANI

Ayodhya: Nine bricks were laid down as part of the ‘bhoomi pujan’ at the site for Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday.

During the ‘bhoomi pujan’, a priest had explained the significance of the nine bricks which were to be laid down to mark the beginning of the construction process. “Nine bricks are kept here... these were sent by devotees of Lord Ram from around the world in 1989. There are 2,75,000 such bricks, out of which 100 bricks with ‘Jai Shri Ram’ engraving have been taken,” the priest said.

Soil from more than 2,000 pilgrimage sites and water from more than 100 sacred rivers were brought to be used for purification and other rituals. After laying the foundation stone for the Ram temple, PM Modi had termed the event as an “emotional moment” for the country and added that “every heart is illuminated today”.

“Every heart is illuminated; it is an emo-

WITNESSING HISTORY BEING MADE

Lord Ram core of humanism: RaGa New Delhi: Soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the ‘bhoomi poojan’ of the proposed Ram temple in Ayodhya, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said Lord Ram was the ultimate embodiment of supreme human values and could never appear in cruelty, hatred or injustice.

Tweeting in Hindi, Gandhi said, “Maryada Purshottam Lord Ram is the ultimate embodiment of supreme hu-

man values. He is the core of humanism embedded deep in our hearts”.

“Ram is love, he can never appear in hatred.

Ram is compassion, he can never appear in cruelty. Ram is justice, he can never appear in injustice,” he said.

The remarks from the former Congress chief comes with the party initially being circumspect on entering the ‘bhoomi pujan’ discourse.

—Agencies

Vice president of india @VPSecretariat As the King of Ayodhya, Lord Rama led an exemplary life, worthy of emulation by everyone. His conduct and values constitute the core of the consciousness of India, cutting across all kinds of divisions and barriers and are relevant for the present. #RamMandir

PM Narendra Modi offers prayers to Ram Lalla performing ‘Sashtang pranam’ (prostration) at Ram Janmabhoomi site.

tional moment for the entire country... A long wait ends today... A grand temple will now

—PHOTOS BY ANI

Clockwise from Top: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mother Heeraben watched the live telecast of ‘Bhoomi Poojan’ of #RamTemple earlier on Wednesday, at her residence in Gandhinagar.

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar along with his wife Sudesh Dhankhar lighted earthen ghee diyas at Raj Bhawan in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Bricks laid as part of ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ for RamTemple in Ayodhya on Wednesday.

Soil from more than 2000 pilgrimage sites and water from more than 100 rivers was brought for the rituals.

Mins commemorate ‘historic’ day New Delhi: Before ‘bhoomi pujan’, PM Modi visited Hanuman Garhi temple, marking the first-ever visit by any Prime Minister to this temple. He also became the first Prime Minister to visit the Ram Janmabhoomi site.

Many political leaders across the country hailed this day. Several Cabinet Ministers and former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan commemorated the “historic” day in their own ways.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari offers prayers at his home in Nagpur.

Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, recited Ram Raksha and performed ‘puja’ with his family in Ma-

harashtra’s Nagpur while the ‘bhoomi pujan’ was conducted in Ayodhya.

Meanwhile in Delhi, Dr Harsh Vardhan on

President of India @rashtrapatibhvn Felicitations to all for the foundation laying of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Being built in tune with law, it defines India’s spirit of social harmony and people’s zeal. It will be a testimony to ideals of RamRajya and a symbol of modern India.

Wednesday, Union Health Minister distributed sweets to his staff at his residence to mark the occasion of ‘bhoomi pujan’ for Ram Temple.

“We are lucky that we could witness the fulfilment of the dream for which 500-year long struggle took place,” he told media.

MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan hailed Modi, stating that the “willpower and resolve” shown by him has today made him the “tallest leader of India in the last 500 years”.

—ANI

be built for our Ram Lalla who had been living under a tent for many years,” PM said. —ANI

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra @priyankagandhi Ramayana has left an indelible mark on the civilization of the world and the Indian subcontinent. For ages, Lord Ram’s character has helped the Indian sub-continent….

Lord Ram belongs to everybody. Lord Ram wants everybody’s welfare. That is why he is called ‘Maryada Purshottam

New beginning of new India: Bhagwat Ayodhya: Soon after the ‘bhoomi pujan’ ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday said that today is the beginning of a new India.

Bhagwat said, “Our country believes in ‘Vasudev Kutubhkam’ i.e.

World is One Family. We believe in taking everyone along. Today is a new beginning of a new India. So many people had sacrificed, they couldn’t be here physically. There are some who couldn’t come here, Advani ji must be at his home watching this.

There are some who should have come but could not be invited because of the situation.”

“The kind of self-confidence we need to be self-reliant has been es-

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

tablished now. The foundation of practice to take everyone along is being laid here today,” said Bhagwat.

“We had taken a resolution. I remember the then RSS chief Balasaheb Deoras telling us that we’ll have to struggle for 20-30 years, only then will this be fulfilled. We struggled for 30 years and in the 30th year, we’ve attained the joy of fulfilling our resolution,” he added.—ANI

JP Nadda, Rajnath Singh thank PM Modi New Delhi: BJP chief JP Nadda and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fulfilling the wishes of devotees across the globe by laying the foundation stone for the Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

Nadda also said that with this PM has completed the oath taken by BJP of getting the Ram Temple constructed.

Singh said, “Every Bharat-wasi had the dream of getting a

JP Nadda and Rajnath Singh

grand temple of Lord Shri Ram constructed.

By doing bhoomi pujan today, PM Modi has fulfilled the oath of the nation which is connected to India’s rich cultural traditions. Thanks to the PM for this.” —ANI

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SUSHANT CASE: CBI PROBE ORDERED

SUPREME COURT ASKS MUMBAI POLICE TO SUBMIT CASE FILES IN THREE DAYS New Delhi: The central government submitted before the Supreme Court on Wednesday that it has accepted the request of Bihar government recommending a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the case related to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the central government, submitted before a single-judge bench of Justice Hrishikesh Roy that the Centre has accepted Bihar government’s request recommending a CBI inquiry into the Sushant Singh Rajput death case. The apex court was hearing a petition filed by actor Rhea Chakraborty seek-

DISHA-SUSHANT’S DEATH INTERLINKED?

ing directions to transfer the case registered regarding the late actor’s death in Bihar’s Patna to Mumbai.

Senior lawyer Shyam Divan, appearing for Chakraborty, said that Rajput died on June 14 and the Mumbai police had already started its investigation in the case.

“There are 56 witnesses. Everything has happened at Mumbai,” Divan said, after which

Justice Roy observed that the fundamental issue here is about jurisdiction. “In a matter like this, very unfortunate situations happen. There is criminality or any situation, the matter has to be investigated properly.

Everybody has an opinion in the matter,” Justice Roy noted, following which Divan sought protection in the case.

Eventually, it is good for everybody’s interest

that the truth should come out, Justice Roy observed. Advocate Vikas Singh, the lawyer for the family of the late actor, sought the apex court’s direction to pass orders to Maharashtra Police to co-operate with Bihar Police. “The Maharashtra police is not cooperating with the Bihar Police,” Singh said.

Maharashtra government’s counsel R Basant pleaded that no direction is necessary in this regard in the case.

Meanwhile, Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday summoned actor Rhea Chakraborty in connection with Sushant Singh Rajput’s case, she has to appear before the agency at its Mumbai office on August 7. —ANI

06

Military bands perform for Corona warriors

New Delhi: The military bands are, for the first time, celebrating Independence Day by displaying their performances across the country, during the fortnight beginning August 1, said officials on wednesday.

"The performances are intended as gestures of gratitude and appreciation of the nation towards the corona warriors," said Defence Ministry.

On August 7, military

bands are scheduled to perform in Srinagar and Kolkata; in Delhi at Red Fort, Rajpath and the India Gate on August 8, 9 and 12 respectively. Later, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Shimla and Almora, Chennai, Nasirabad, Andaman & Nicobar, Dandi,Imphal, Bhopal and Jhansi. The final performance will be held on Aug 13 in Lucknow, Faizabad, Shillong, Madurai and Champaran, their statement said. —Agencies

BJP celebrates one year of abrogation With spike of 52,509, of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir recovery rate rises to 67% Srinagar: The BJP’s Kashmir unit on Wednesday celebrated the first anniversary of the revocation of special status of Jammu and Kashmir and accused those protesting the constitutional changes of being sympathisers of the ISIS. BJP leaders and workers unfurled the national flag and distributed sweets. BJP leader Altaf Thakur said “We are celebrating the completion of one year of abrogation of Article 370 (provisions) and the positive changes that it brought in Jammu and Kashmir.”

“There used to be stone pelting during encounters that has stopped. There used to be ISIS flag, Pakistani

SENSEX: MARKET CLOSES NEAR FLATLINE Mumbai: The sensex closes near flatline on wednesday. Indian indices pared gains to end flat on Wednesday after heavyweights HDFC Bank, RIL, and Infosys turned negative. However, gains in metals and auto stocks capped the decline. The Sensex ended 24 points lower at 37,633 while Nifty rose 6points to settle at 11,101. - Agencies

Senior BJP leaders hoist the Tricolor as they celebrate on the first anniversary of revocation of the special status of J &K (PTI Photo)

flag etc that has stopped.

That is what we are celebrating,” he added.

On some political parties in Kashmir observing ‘Black Day’ on Wednesday, Thakur said they were sympathisers of the ISIS. Omar took

note of celebration and said “BJP displaying its hypocrisy. They can gather and celebrate.

The rest of us can’t even meet to discuss what’s happening in JK.” PDP President Mehbooba Mufti’s twitter

says, “Until the restoration of the special position of J&K, August 5 will be observed as Black Day. This is the issue of our identity and existence, this is the battle of all of us that we have to fight collec-

tively.”

Abrogating Article 370 empowered Kashmiris in multiple ways, says Member of European Parliament On the first anniversary of abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, a Member of European Parliament (MEP), who visited Kashmir last autumn, Maxette Pirbakas said, “It (revocation of Article 370) has lifted the artificial barrier that has dwelled in the minds of two generations of Kashmiris on the absence of their links to India and initiated a process of healing and homecoming. I am certain that now Kashmiri industrial will benefit with greater opportunities to attract private investments.” —ANI

New Delhi: With the single-day spike of 52,509 cases India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 19 lakh mark on Wednesday, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

This includes 5,86,244 active cases, 12,82,216 cured, discharged and migrated cases. With 857 new deaths being reported from the country on Tuesday, the toll due to the infection stands at 39,795.

Maharashtra continues to be the worst-affected state as it has a total of 1,42,458 active cases and 16,142 deaths.

The active COVID-19 count in Tamil Nadu stands at 55,152. The national capital has 9,897 active cases. 25 'corona warriors' have died in Odisha while in Cov-

MINISTER BRAJESH PATHAK COVID +IVE

id-19 duty. A mobile Covid-19 lab, approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), was inaugurated on Wednesday by the Karnataka Medical Ed-

SC refers to 5-judge bench pleas against 10 pc EWS quota New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday referred to a five-judge Constitution Bench pleas challenging the central government’s decision to grant 10 per cent quota to Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) in jobs and admissions in the general category.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Justice (CJI) Sharad Arvind Bobde said that a larger bench will de-

cide the pleas filed by 35 petitioners challenging Centre’s decision. The petitions filed by NGOs ‘Janhit Abhiyan’ and ‘Youth For Equality’ along with 33 others sought directions to quash the Constitution (103 Amendment) Act, 2019, saying that the economic criterion cannot be the sole basis for reservation. The Centre had earlier defended its decision & contended that the Constitution

(103 amendments) Act, 2019 granting 10 per cent reservation to EWS is intended to uplift around 200 million people who are still below the poverty line.

Referring to the ninejudge bench decision of the apex court in the landmark 1992 Indira Sawhney case, the petition had submitted that the latest amendment completely violated the Constitutional norm. —ANI

ful. “Social harmony was the core principle of Lord Ram’s governance,” the prime minister said.

The construction of the Ram temple is an instrument to unite the country, he said, adding that it will lift the economy of the entire region.

“We have to join stones for the construction of Ram temple with mutual love, brotherhood,” he said, asserting that everyone’s sentiments have to be taken care of. Modi also recalled the significance of the path of ‘maryada’ associated with Lord Ram in the backdrop of

the situation created by COVID-19 and emphasised the importance of social distancing and wearing face masks.

The PM arrived in Ayodhya in a helicopter and was received by CM Yogi Adityanath. He offered prayers at the Hanumangarhi temple before travelling the Ram Janmabhoomi site, where he first prayed before the deity of Ram Lalla. He also planted a parijat (Indian night jasmine) sapling, before the bhoomi pujan began.

historic and proud day for India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram worshipped and laid the foundation stone of the grand Ram temple, which has written a golden chapter in the history of great Indian culture and civilization and has started a new era,” he added.

“His character and philosophy of life is the cornerstone of Indian culture. With the construction of Ram temple, this auspicious land will rise again in the world with its full splendour. Coordination of religion and develop-

Delhi HC dismisses plea against barring Nun rape case: SC dismisses plea security force using social media New Delhi: The Delhi High Court division bench of Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw & Justice Asha Menon dismissed Lieutenant Colonel PK Choudhary’s petition saying, “We may also notice that warfare and intercountry rivalries and animosities today are

not confined to accession of territory and destruction of installations and infrastructure of enemy countries but also extend to influencing and affecting the economies and political stability of enemy country including by inciting civil unrest.” —ANI

New Delhi: The Supreme Court bench

by Chief Justice of India, Sharad Arvind Bobde dismissed the plea, “We are not saying anything and we are dismissing the case on discharge.” Mulakkal has filed plea for innocence. —ANI

ucation Minister Dr K Sudhakar. The lab is touted as a first of its kind in the nation.

Soon, Sun Pharma’s FluGuard will be available in the market. —ANI

Ex-Maharashtra CM Shivajirao dies at 90 New Delhi: Ex-Maharashtra CM Shivajirao Patil Nilangekar dies on Wednesday. He was a stalwart of Maharashtra politics. He served the state diligently, especially working for the welfare of farmers and the poor. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Guv Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the demise. —ANI

FROM PG 1 ‘Ram is...

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust head Nritya Gopal Das were on the dais along with the PM, consecrating the very first bricks that will go into building the temple.

Despite efforts to eradicate Lord Ram’s existence, he lives in our hearts and is the basis of our culture, Modi said.

Citing Lord Ram’s message, Modi said the more powerful India gets, the more it will be loved and remain peace-

Shah attributes...

I express my heartfelt gratitude.” “Today is a

ment will also generate employment opportunities,” Shah tweeted.

“The construction of this grand Ram temple reflects the strong and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. My heartiest congratulations to all Indians on this unforgettable day. The Modi government will always be committed to protecting and preserving Indian culture and its values,” he added.

“The construction of the Prabhu Shri Ram temple is the result of centuries of constant sacrifice, struggle, penance and sacrifice of in-

numerable name-unnamed Ram devotees. On this day, I salute all those ascetics who fought for this invaluable heritage of Sanatan culture for so many years. Jai Shree Ram!” Shah wrote in another tweet. ANI

Impugned resolution... the maintenance expenditure which continues to be incurred by schools, even during the period of lockdown,” stated the court.

Taking into consideration issues faced by smaller institutions, the court observed, “Expecting smaller institutions

to bear their own expenses without receipt of tuition fees will force many institutions to shut down, permanently.

This can have a cascading effect on students and parents.”

It also questioned the state government’s intentions regarding the fee issue, “If teaching is a noble and charitable cause as stated in the impugned resolution, why does the state not take steps to waive the collection of tuition fees in colleges? Why should the state not exempt the fees to state-run as well as private medical and engineering colleges?”

asked the court.

The state government was also directed by the court to convene a meeting with the office-bearers of the association of unaided private schools again and endeavour to arrive at some understanding which is equitable in nature.

Beirut blast...

A large number of the world’s countries, including Lebanon’s Middle East neighbours, have already offered their assistance to Beirut and extended their condolences over the tragic incident. (Sputnik/ANI)

TALKING POINT AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

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07

ALL THE ASTONISHING THINGS HAPPENED WITHIN THE CONSCIOUS WORKINGS OF HUMAN MINDS OFFER RATIONAL EVIDENCE FOR CONCLUSION THAT HUMAN BEINGS MAY WELL BE MADE “IN THE IMAGE OF A GOD.”

T

he question of whether a god exists is heating up in the 21st century.

According to a Pew survey, the percent of Americans having no religious affiliation reached 23 percent in 2014. Among such “nones,” 33 percent said that they do not believe in God – an 11 percent increase since only 2007.

Such trends have ironically been taking place even as, I would argue, the probability for the existence of a su-

pernatural god have been rising. In my 2015 book, “God? Very Probably: Five Rational Ways to Think about the Question of a God,” I look at physics, the philosophy of human consciousness, evolutionary biology, mathematics, the history of religion and theology to explore whether such a god exists. I should say that I am trained originally as an economist, but have been working at the intersection of economics, environmentalism and theology since the 1990s.

MATH AND OTHER WORLDS n 2004 the great British Iforward physicist Roger Penrose put a vision of a universe composed of three independently existing worlds – mathematics, the material world and human consciousness. As Penrose acknowledged, it was a complete puzzle to him how the three interacted with one another outside the

ability of any scientific or other conventionally rational model.

How can physical atoms and molecules, for example, create something that exists in a separate domain that has no physical existence: human consciousness?

ARGUMENTS WHY

God EXISTS

EVOLUTION AND FAITH

LAWS OF MATH n 1960 the Princeton physiIPrize cist – and subsequent Nobel winner – Eugene Wigner

raised a fundamental question: Why did the natural world always – so far as we know – obey laws of mathematics?

As argued by scholars such as Philip Davis and Reuben Hersh, mathematics exists independent of physical reality.

It is the job of mathematicians to discover the realities of this separate world of mathematical laws and concepts. Physicists then put the mathematics to use according to the rules of prediction and confirmed observation of the scientific method.

But modern mathematics generally is formulated before any natural observations are made, and many mathematical laws today have no known existing physical analogues.

Einstein’s 1915 general theory of relativity, for example, was based on theoretical mathematics developed 50 years earlier by the great German mathematician Bernhard Riemann that did not have any known practical applications at the time of its intellectual creation.

In some cases the physicist also discovers the mathemat-

ics. Isaac Newton was considered among the greatest mathematicians as well as physicists of the 17th century.

Other physicists sought his help in finding a mathematics that would predict the workings of the solar system. He found it in the mathematical law of gravity, based in part on his discovery of calculus.

At the time, however, many people initially resisted Newton’s conclusions because they seemed to be “occult.” How could two distant objects in the solar system be drawn toward one another, acting according to a precise mathematical law?

Indeed, Newton made strenuous efforts over his lifetime to find a natural explanation, but in the end he could say only that it is the will of God. Despite the many other enormous advances of modern physics, little has changed in this regard. As Wigner wrote, “the enormous usefulness of mathematics in the natural sciences is something bordering on the mysterious and there is no rational explanation for it.”

In other words, as I argue in my book, it takes the existence of some kind of a god to make the mathematical underpinnings of the universe comprehensible.

THE MYSTERY OF HUMAN CONSCIOUSNESS he workings of human Tmiraculous. consciousness are similarly Like the laws of

mathematics, consciousness has no physical presence in the world. Yet, our nonphysical thoughts somehow mysteriously guide the actions of our physical human bodies. This is no more scientifically explicable than the mysterious ability of nonphysical mathematical constructions to determine workings of a separate physical world. Until recently, scientifically unfathomable quality of human consciousness inhibited the very scholarly discussion of the subject. Since 1970s, it has become a leading area of inquiry among philosophers. Recognizing that he could not reconcile

his own scientific materialism with existence of nonphysical world of human consciousness, Daniel Dennett, in 1991 took radical step of denying that consciousness even exists.

SOURCE: THE CONVERSATION

is a contentious subject Eingvolution in American public life. Accordto Pew, 98 percent of scientists

connected to the American Association for the Advancement of Science “believe humans evolved over time” while only a minority of Americans “fully accept evolution through natural selection.”

From the 1970s onwards, the Harvard evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould created controversy by positing a different view, “punctuated equilibrium,” to the slow and gradual evolution of species as theorized by Darwin.

In 2011, University of Chicago evolutionary biologist James Shapiro argued that many microevolutionary processes worked as though guided by a purposeful “sentience” of the evolving plant and animal organisms themselves.

“The capacity of living organisms to alter their own heredity is undeniable,” he wrote. “Our current ideas about evolution have to incorporate this basic fact of life.” For my part, the most recent developments in evolutionary biology have increased the probability of a god.

MYSTERY THAT LIES BEYOND SCIENCE his mystery is the same one that Tof Plato, existed in the Greek worldview who believed that abstract ideas (above all mathematical) first existed outside any physical reality. The material world that we experience as part of our human existence is an imperfect reflection of these prior formal ideals. As the scholar of ancient Greek philosophy, Ian Mueller, writes in “Math-

ematics And The Divine,” the realm of such ideals is that of God. Indeed, in 2014 the MIT physicist Max Tegmark argues in “Our Mathematical Universe” that mathematics is the fundamental world reality that drives the universe. As I would say, mathematics is operating in a god-like fashion.

MIRACULOUS IDEAS AT THE SAME TIME? or the past 10,000 years at a Fchanges minimum, the most important in human existence have

been driven by cultural developments occurring in the realm of human ideas.

In the Axial Age (commonly dated from 800 to 200 B.C.), world-transforming ideas such as Buddhism, Confucianism, the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, and the Hebrew Old Testament almost miraculously appeared at

CONCEPT: RAKSHITA PAREEK

DESIGN: CP SHARMA

about the same time in India, China, ancient Greece and among the Jews in the Middle East, groups having little interaction with one another. The development of the scientific method in the 17th century in Europe and its modern further advances have had at least as great a set of worldtransforming consequences.

There have been many historical theories, but none capable, I would argue, of explaining as fundamentally transformational a set of events as the rise of the modern world.

It was a revolution in human thought, operating outside any explanations grounded in scientific materialism, that drove the process.

That all these astonishing things happened within the conscious workings of human minds, functioning outside physical reality, offers

further rational evidence, in my view, for the conclusion that human beings may well be made “in the image of [a] God.”

DIFFERENT FORMS OF WORSHIP n his commencement address IAmerican to Kenyon College in 2005, the novelist and essay-

ist David Foster Wallace said that: “Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship.”

Even though Karl Marx, for example, condemned the illusion of religion, his followers, ironically, worshiped Marxism.

The American philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre thus wrote that for much of the 20th century, Marxism was the “historical successor of Christianity,” claiming to show the faithful the one correct path to a new heaven on Earth.

In several of my books, I have explored how Marxism and other such “economic religions” were characteristic of much of the modern age.

So Christianity, I would argue, did not disappear as much as it reappeared in many such disguised forms of “secular religion.”

That the Christian essence, as arose out of Judaism, showed such great staying power amidst the extraordinary political, economic, intellectual and other radical changes of the modern age is another reason I offer for thinking that the existence of a god is very probable.

For every generation, ‘good old days’ have been mostly nostalgic.

Nobody thought the days were good enough at that time, we all look back and feel nostalgic.

2ND FRONT Lax authorities to blame Teacher in HC over sus—Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor, First India

AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

www.firstindia.co.in I www.firstindia.co.in/epaper/ I twitter.com/thefirstindia I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

for Covid situation in Surat

Gujarat High Court says Surat death rate is ‘quite high’, authorities failed to anticipate the crisis Shishir Awasthi Ahmedabad: After Ahmedabad, the Gujarat High Court has taken the State Government to task for the ballooning Covid-19 cases in Surat and observed the situation in the diamond city had “gone from bad to worse” because the authorities were caught napping.

The State Health Department and Surat civic authorities, who were relieved that the situation there was much better than Ahmedabad, were shaken out of stupor after Unlock 1.0 on June 8 when offices and commercial activities started in full steam, and the cases started zooming.

Between June 8 and August 5, the Covid-19 cases in Surat city and rural areas went up around 6 times and deaths by 7 times. On June 8, the district accounted for 2,333 cases and 87 deaths, while

SURAT CORONA JUMP: AS ON AUGUST 5 Total Positive Cases: 14,902 (649 deaths) City: 11,978 Rural: 2,924 As on June 8, when full-fledged Unlock 1.0 begins Total positive cases: 2,333 (87 deaths) City: 2,156 Covid-19 cases are increasing by leaps and bounds in Surat.

Rural: 177

7 THINGS HIGH COURT WANTS TO KNOW

this was 14,902 with 649 deaths respectively, on August 5.

Hearing petitions about rising cases in

Surat, a division bench of Chief Justice Vikram Nath and Justice JB Pardiwala pointedly asked the Gu-

jarat Government to explain why had the situation gone from “bad to worse.”

The bench asserted,

“The delayed response from the state administration is responsible for the current situation in Surat.”

The court order, which has now been made public, stated, “The health department of the state government knew that Surat would erupt in a matter of time. We are informed that the testing was not ramped up.”

The court observed that Surat had become the state’s Covid-19 hotspot with one in every five cases being reported from here, though nearly 18 lakh migrants had already left. The judges expressed their worry that Surat’s mortality rate was “quite high.”

The bench stated that Surat’s caseload had increased from 14.5% to 28.8% in a fortnight, while that of Ahmedabad fell from 65% to 42.2% as of July 24, the day of the hearing.

08

pension for FB remarks First India Bureau Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court has issued notices to the State Government on a petition filed by a teacher who was suspended allegedly after a Facebook comment criticizing Education Minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama.

A government primary school teacher, Jigneshkumar Gangaram Patel, stated that a show-cause notice was issued to him for his comments on Facebook against the Education Minister and Education Secretary. His grouse is that he was suspended on July 28 despite tendering an apology for his remarks.

Following the petition, Justice Biren Vaishnav issued notices to the government and posted the next hearing for September 4, 2020.

The petitioner has contended that some

FREEDOM OF SPEECH!

High Courts have ordered against the suspension of state employees for voicing critical views about the goverment. Earlier this year, the Tripura High Court had held that government servants are entitled to hold and express their political beliefs, subject to the restrictions laid under Rule 5 of the Tripura Civil

Services (Conduct) Rules.

“As a government servant, the petitioner is not devoid of her right to free speech, a fundamental right which can be curtailed only by a valid law,” Chief Justice Akil Kureshi had held, while setting aside suspension of an employee for a Facebook post.

Gujarati is NY’s new 1.12 cr meals served to Guj masons 3 persons killed in road mishap health commissioner First India Bureau

Gandhinagar: More than 1.12 crore meals have been served during the last three years at food booths operated under the Shramik Annapurna Yojana, under which hot and nutritious food is provided at highly subsi-

dized rates to construction workers.

Vipul Mittra, Additional Chief Secretary, Labour and Employment, said the Gujarat Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board operates 199 food booths at kadiya nakas (labour points) across the state.

“The food booths were started under the Shramik Annapurna Yojana to provide nutritious meals to construction workers in June 2017. Since then, more than 1.12 crore meals have been provided at just Rs. 10 per meal. This translates into more than 10,500 meals per

day,” he said.

The maximum number of meals were served in Ahmedabad (46.11 lakh), followed

by Surat (15.94 lakh), and Vadodara (15.81 lakh). Mittra said the number of meals would have been higher but for the threemonth lockdown.

3 persons were killed in accident near Morbi.

Dr Dave A Chokshi is new NY Health Commissioner.

First India Bureau Ahmedabad: A Gujarati doctor, Dave A Chokshi, a 39-yearold Indian-origin physician with expertise in public health, has been appointed as New York City’s new health commissioner

by Mayor Bill de Blasio who praised him for playing a crucial role in addressing the unprecedented coronavirus challenges faced by the city.

Chokshi was named Commissioner of the City’’s Department of

Health and Mental Hygiene on Tuesday after serving health commissioner Dr Oxiris Barbot resigned from her post.

Blasio said Chokshi has spent his career fighting for those too often left behind.

“Never has that been more true than during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he has helped lead our City’’s public health system under unprecedented challenges. I know he’s ready to lead the charge forward in our fight for a fairer and healthier city for all.”

WELCOMING THE LORD!

First India Bureau

Oil lamps and rangoli at various places in Gujarat to mark Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir’s groundbreaking in Ayodhya on Wednesday.

Morbi : A Surat-based businessman and two others were killed when the SUV they were travelling in rammed into a truck from behind near Chirai village, about 15 km from Morbi on Wednesday afternoon.

Three other passengers of the SUV suffered serious injuries and were rushed to Morbi civil hospital for treatment The deceased were identified as Rajendra Bachav (42), who had an export-import business in Surat and his two em-

ployees, Mahendra Singh Pal (41) and Jainendra Singh Rajput (45).

They all were going to Mundra in Kutch for business purposes.

According to Maliya Miyana police sub-inspector, RB Tapariya, Bachav and three others had set off from Surat on Wednesday morning and had picked up two men from Chotila in Surendranagar district. Taparia said that the driver of the vehicle lost control and rammed the vehicle into a moving truck on the Maliya-Morbi Highway.

EMPOWERING WOMEN

WEE winner makes Covid accessories, natural textiles

The WEE cohort initiative is an IIT-Delhi endeavour supported by the Dept of Science & Technology 

First India Bureau Vadodara: Meghna Gandhi of Vadodara has emerged as one of the key winners at the Women Entrepreneurship and Empowerment (WEE) cohort initiative, which helps women ranging from college going students to middle-aged house-

wives to take up entrepreneurship as a viable, fulfilling career option.

The WEE cohort initiative is India’s first of its kind endeavour to strengthen women’s ecosystem at Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and is supported and sponsored by the Department of Science

Meghna Gandhi of Vadodara wins WEE cohort award.

and Technology.

Meghna Gandhi is the Founder and Creative Director at Ribbon Candy, which is a homegrown label that makes handmade apparel and accessories for girls. She has worked with underprivileged women in Vadodara during the Covid-19 lockdown and made natural textiles and Covid-19 related accessories.

An elated Gandhi said Ribbon Candy works closely with underprivi-

DIFFERENT WINNERS!

leged women and more than 30 such women have already been impacted positively by their initiative.

The awards, which have been granted to 11 women entrepreneurs

this time, are in the form of cash grants totalling Rs 25 lakh.

Among the others, Kalpana Arora, who has a doctorate in wastewater management from IIT-Delhi,

has been awarded for her products like sanitizers manufactured from wastewater. She is a social entrepreneur and works for tribal women and farmers in the hilly region of Uttarakhand through selfhelp groups.

Kalpana Arora said her journey with WEE helped her meet a community of like-minded individuals and expects many more underprivileged people will benefit from the initiative.

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The ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ at Ayodhya is a dream come true, though Lord Rama has lived on for centuries in the hearts of Hindus. City First talks to a few of its readers on how did they learned about Lord Ram and also how do they plan to pass on this learning to the future generation!

NEHAL NAYAR

nehal.nayar@firstindia.co.in

T

here must be a rare person in India who has not heard of Lord Ram and something about the Ramayana.

For the Hindus, the Ramayana is more than just a sacred text, it is a part of the family. Anecdotes, lessons and examples from Ramayana are a part of daily life. References are quoted and understood immediately because we all have heard the story of Maryada Purushottam Ram! I was introduced to Lord Rama by my grandmother as she would regale us with different stories, all a part of Ramayan. Ramayana has been handed down for centuries through word of mouth, books and

in the modern age we have travelled with Lord Rama, Mata Sita and Lakshman in movies, serials, comics, animated films and even video games!

Ramayan grows even more popular today, breaking all generational myths, proof of the popularity is that the 1980’s TV serial Ramayana telecast on Doordarshan during the lockdown and the TRP it brought for DD after decades.

As the Ram temple at Ayodhya finally becomes a reality, it is the culmination of a dream of not just the millions of Hindus living in India and the world across but generations of ancestors who are no more but dreamt of this day when Ram Lalla would finally be in his rightful place.

Ram, the very word signifies duty, truth, obedience, family and dharma. It is the identity of the millions of Hindus for whom, today, a dream comes true!

I have grown up hearing stories of Ramayan from my grandparents.

In fact, when we were growing up, watching Ramayan on television was a weekly ritual.

All the work was kept on halt for that period and after that very episode, the whole week went by discussing the characters. We as kids were given examples from it. It was a great learning experience. We got more and more involved and curious to learn more about our culture because of it.

—APRA KUCHHAL, Rajasthan I have a vivid memory of being introduced to Ramayana by my maternal grandfather. He believed thoroughly in the sanctity it holds.

The learning I hold the utmost respect for is the crux which is selfless love and sacrifice depicted primarily by Sitaji. That is something I would like to imbibe in my future generation, not just with narration but also a hypothesis.

—AKSHARA SHARMA, Rajasthan As a kid, my memories take me to my grandmother who used to sing folk bhajans of Lord Ram. Then it was told as a story from my mother with an understanding of the actions and importance of karma. I feel these ancient Hindu epics can guide us in life to stay focused on our karma, responsibilities towards our loved ones and also in building a great culture around.

—RINKLE, Gujarat My parents were devotees; especially my mother was fond of telling mythological short stories and idioms. She certainly introduced me to Ramayana and Mahabharata. I follow and prefer my mother’s way of sharing our legacy with small books but in the digital world, videos are playing vital role for passing to the future generations.

—NAMAN MUNSHI, Gujarat

09

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AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

10

Iron Man, I Love You 3000 GURMAN SINGH cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

R

obert Downey Jr., one of the most bankable and highly paid actors in show business. The son of underground filmmaker Robert Downey was born in New York City. He made his first on-screen appearance at the age of five, as a puppy in his father’s film Pound (1970).

Downey’s first leading role on the big screen was a charming womanizer in The Pick-up Artist soon after that His breakthrough performance came in 1987 with Less Than Zero.

Downey’s portrayal in the

1992 biopic Chaplin earned him an Academy Award nomination. Some of His best movies are The Soloist, Soapdish, The Singing Detective, Heart and Souls, Air America, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.

Although for a time, Downey’s stormy offscreen life and personal problems threatened to challenge his public image, he quickly bounced back and overcame these setbacks, with a continued array of impressive roles on the big screen that never sacrificed his audience appeal or affability. Downey’s star-power rose in 2008 when

he starred in the 2008 summer blockbusters Iron Man and Tropic Thunder, earning him an Oscar nomination for the latter. Since then Downey aka ‘Iron Man’ became the proverbial king of the MCU. In addition, he has filled roles in two Sherlock Holmes movies and other movies that continues to show his talent and range as an actor. Though his last film “Dolittle” opened with a charming animated prologue still audiences had comparatively shown little interest because people have developed a habit of watching him as Iron Man and

sometimes in Sherlock Holmes. There is this one Avenger actor “Iron Man actor Downey” the most followed on Instgram, with over 46M followers.

He got paid in gold for his role in the Marvel Universe, earning about $75 million for his role in ‘Avengers: Endgame.’ Nearly all of his earnings come from acting, though he also receives millions for doing campaigns of upcoming smartphone brands. Where once he was viewed as toxic, Downey now finds himself in a place where studios and directors are seeking him out.

A versatile actor with the poker face expression. His turn in Chaplin was brilliant and his performance as Iron Man has revitalized his career.

But his charisma as an amazing actor is limited to a few legendary roles. I want to see him in roles with more depth as a well-rounded actor.

—AJAY SINGH RATHORE Ironman’s role has been really justified by him, The last scene in avengers where Robert Downey Jr. dies was the most heartbreaking scene ever and people are still waiting for his comeback as Ironman. This shows how much respect n love this actor has earned from this character.

—HARJYOT MALIK

FA CE OF TH ED AY

Robert Downey Jr

YOUR DAY Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Your achievements speaks for yourself and its a reminder that you can start afresh and build your castle of dreams. You are conscious towards health and its a good thing specially right now. You may fall in love at the first sight. Judicious use of time is the need of this hour.

Dedication is must in these trial times as any source of income is a blessing, Family is always by your side and they will never let you fall.

You have a brilliant personality and you are someone full of talents, for someone like you all the times are favourable.

You will feel energetic today to do things which you have been planning to do for a long time. For students this is a very precious time to change their weakness into strength as you have plenty of time at home to work on yourself. Think before you speak.

Your seniors will acknowledge you efforts in work and will truly admire your dedication even when you are working from home. Don’t take your assignments lightly even if this time feels like an extended holiday, utilise this time to learn.

Bickering around is a waste of time.

MAR 21 - APR 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

It’s still not too late to regain your ground on academic front. The dream of getting married to your long term friends will come true and it will be a very fruitful reunion. You are an ideal child of your parents and you have always taken their needs in account.

The intention of helping someone climb the ladder is in itself very pure and you will earn many blessings for it. The feeling of responsibility is a sign that you are all grown up and can handle things like an adult. Immaculately dressed is how people define you.

You are a freedom seeker but considering the current times you may have to procrastinate your plans to go away from home for studies. For those in search of love can expect cupid arrows. Adhere to the terms of your job and there is nothing to worry. Be efficient and innovative.

With changing times there is a change in demand and supply therefore try to come up with ideas which can help you earn money at current time by catering to the prevailing needs. Open up to your close ones if you are facing any challenges in your life as certain issues can be resolved.

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

AUG 24 - SEP 23

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Spirituality is the answer to your your problems, indulge yourself in some form of yoga and medication. A promise made by sibling will be kept.

Your focus should be your goals and rest who says what shall not matter. A life with purpose is worth living. Don’t be confused while decision making.

Health is wealth at current times therefore nothing should come before your own safety. Youth has the power to bring about the change so be the beacon of light in your family.

A healthy competition with sibling is not so bad. Valiant and pivot is how you can be defined.

Your sorrows will disappear in the thin air once you decide to do something about it. Romance is on the cards and making your partner feel special is your uncompromised quality.

Demeanour plays an important role when it come to being a part of an elite group and you never disappoint.

You have a taste for unusual things. You will not waste your time at home rather you will utilise this pandemic break from schools and college to enhance your skills. Whining over the what has been lost is not a sensible thing to do, move ahead with time.

NOV 23 - DEC 22

KARISHMA YADAV, Content Creator

APR 21 - MAY 20

DEC 23 - JAN 20

JAN 21 - FEB 19

FEB20 - MARCH 20

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AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

11

Bollywood on Ram Mandir Bhumi Pujan A

Aapko aur aapke parvar ko Ram janm bhumi pujan ki haardik shubhkamnayein. Jai Shree Ram! #JaiShreeRam —ANUPAM KHER

s Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Bollywood celebrities have taken it to their social media platforms to express their excitement and shared their thoughts.

Taking to Twitter handle, senior Bollywood actor Anupam Kher extended his best wishes to his legion of followers for the Ram Janmabhoomi Pujan.

While ‘Masti’ actor Riteish Deshmukh, on the micro-blogging site tweeted multiple hashtag ‘Jai Shree Ram’ to mark the historic day. Among these, actor Kirron Kher, legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, filmmaker Ashok Pandit and others also marked the day and expressed their excitement.

Earlier, evergreen star Hema Malini, through an audio recording congratulated the devotees of Lord Ram on the occasion.

The Mathura MP expressed her excitement on the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the much-awaited Ram Temple.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the special Bhoomi Poojan at Ayodhya ahead of the foundation stone laying ceremony.

He also released a commemorative postage stamp on ‘Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir’. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi had offered prayers at the Hanuman Garhi Temple in Ayodhya.

—ANI

#JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam#JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam#JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam#JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam #JaiShreeRam —RITEISH DESHMUKH What could not happen in 500 years happened this year.... this is not picture of the day but the moment of many centuries #JaiShreeRam #RamMandirAyodhya —KANGANA RANAUT

‘21 would not have happened WITH JUST NEPOTISM’

B

ollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan who recently completed 20 years in the industry weighed in on the ongoing debate on nepotism.

Ever since the unfortunate demise of Sushant Singh Rajput, the debate on nepotism has been reignited and those from the film families have been on the receiving end of trolling and criticism.

In a recent interview, Kareena said that for her to work so long in the industry would not have been possible if the audience had not accepted her. “21 years of working would not have happened with just nepotism. It is not possible. I can take a long list out of superstars’ children for

‘Growing young with you is a blessing’

whom it’s not been able to happen that way,” she said.

She said that even though she comes from a privileged background, she has her own struggle even though it might not be as interesting as the others. “It might sound weird but my struggle is there.

There is a struggle but it probably is not as interesting as somebody who comes in a train with just Rs 10 in his pocket. Yeah, it’s not been that and I can’t be apologetic about it,” she said.

—Agency

...his post

Wishes from the

MAIN MAN

S Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh

A

ctor Riteish Deshmukh on Wednesday showered love over his star wife Genelia Deshmukh to mark the 33rd birthday of the ‘Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na’ actor.

Deshmukh took to Instagram to share an adorable picture of himself with his actor wife and penned down a sweet birthday message for her. “You are my bestest friend, my eternal laughter, my partner in crime, my happiness, my guide, my enthusiasm, my excitement, my light, my life, my everything,” the ‘Housefull’ actor wrote. “Wishing you a very Happy Birthday Baiko - growing young with you is a blessing. @geneliad #HappyBirthdayGenelia,” he added. The celebrity couple is celebrating the ‘Force’ actor’s birthday at home amid the coronavirus socialdistancing protocols. —ANI

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West

MENDING

Kajol

RELATIONSHIP

Virtual Fan Meet

K

im Kardashian and Kanye West are riding through the rough tides for a while now. The couple’s rocky relationship came under the spotlight after Kanye broke down during his first Presidential rally. The rapper spoke about aborting his first child with Kim. After the rant, he took to Twitter and posted some shocking statements about his marriage with Kim and also mentioned his mother-in-law Kris Jenner. While rumors are doing the rounds that Kim is considering moving forward with the divorce for she feels that Kanye doesn’t understand her. As per recent reports, the couple is giving their relationship yet another chance.

—Agency

haring a stunning throwback picture of himself with his star wife Kajol, actor Ajay Devgn on Wednesday extended a heartwarming birthday wish to the ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaayenge’ actor.

Devgn took to Instagram to share the picture, in which the celebrity couple is seen walking beside each other and looking each other in the eye. “Happy returns of the day, forever & always @kajol,” the ‘Shivaay’ actor wrote in the caption.

The couple is seen exuding elegance in the picture as they are seen wearing attires of contrasting colours. While Kajol is seen in an all white traditional suit, Ajay is dressed in an all black denim and T-shirt.

—ANI

A

s her classic romantic drama ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun’ clocked 26 years on the horizon of Indian cinema on Wednesday, evergreen actor Madhuri Dixit Nene announced a virtual meet with 26 fans of the movie from across the globe.

“Join me along with 26 fans from all over the world to celebrate #26YearsOfHAHK. Streaming LIVE 7 pm onwards on Youtube & Facebook.” wrote the ‘Kalank’ actor as she announced the special virtual Kareena Kapoor Khan

Madhuri Dixit Nene

meet on Twitter.

Sharing the Twitter account where the fans of the classic film will be able to view the virtual meet, the ‘Devdas’ star noted, “Join me along with 26 fans from all over the world to celebrate #26YearsOfHAHK. I can’t believe it’s been 26 years since ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun’ released. Remembering the fun memories & hard work of the incredible team who left no stone unturned to perfect every single scene.”

—ANI

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AHMEDABAD | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020

BACK IN ACTION

12

THE HAPPENINGS!

KAVITA CHAUHAN cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

T

he gymnasiums and yoga institutes have re-opened their doors for the fitness enthusiasts on Wednesday. To curb the coronavirus spread, the central government had ordered to shut the gyms and yoga institutions in the last week of March across the nation. As “physical activity and yoga are important for health”, the Centre has now allowed gymnasiums and yoga centers to function during the third phase of nationwide unlock. A fresh set of guidelines have been issued to maintain so-

RAJASTHAN: On the occasion of Bhoomi Pujan for the construction of Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the City Palace in Jaipur was resplendent with traditional lamps.

cial distancing norms amid the COVID 19 pandemic. The aim is to minimize all the possible contact between staff, members and visitors to prevent coronavirus spread.

All the gymnasiums and yoga institutes have been directed to plan fitness activities keeping the floor area of 4m2 per person.

Equipment and machines should be placed at a distance of 6 feet.

They are advised to utilise the outdoor space if any. There should be a proper marking on the floor to ensure 6 ft distancing.

For air-conditioned premises, the temperature of AC should be between 24 to 30 degrees Celsius.

With the required social dis-

tancing, gyms will operate under-capacity allowing limited members at one time. Also, the gyms will have to bear the costs of sanitization, cleaners, masks, thermometer, etc. However, there are a lot of gyms and fitness centers that will remain closed out of choice to observe the situation and then make a decision.

A GREAT LOSS GUJARAT: A novel chocolate maker artist Shilpa Bhatt makes a replica of the Ram Mandir using chocolates on the occasion of Ram Mandir Bhumi Pujan in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

‘SAHEBZADE of Rajasthan’ CITY FIRST

T

he filmmaker from Jaipur is making a documentary film ‘Sahebzade of Rajasthan’ on Irrfan Khan. The founder of the Film Forum and the director of this documentary film, Mohsin Khan Badgujjar, shared that the documentary film is a tribute to a great artist who has made his fame not only in the country b u t abroad and has made Rajasthan’s name bright.

T h e

film will show Irrfan Khan’s association with Rajasthan; especially Tonk and the city of Jaipur. In this connection, the film’s team met Irfan’s close friend, DIG Hyder Ali Zaidi in Rajasthan Police and recorded him reminiscing the memories connected to Irfan Khan on camera. Soon this documentary film will be completed by taking views of the special people and will be shown to all their fans. cityfirst@firstindia. co.in

Late Irrfan Khan

HAPPY B’DAY!

IAS Punam (left) and IPS Tejraj Singh Kharodia celebrated their birthdays on 5 August, Wednesday. We wish them all the best!

RAJASTHAN: The team Pheonix from JECRC won in Smart India Hackathon 2020, where the students worked on the problem statement associated with the Ministry of Power and created a tool through which it will facilitate the automated generation of regulatory compliance data from power sector stakeholders. This would be helpful for analysis and reporting.

(From left) Jaivardhan Agrawal, Sangita Agrawal, Priti Bakshi, Akansha Bakshi, Saroj Agrawal, Shivangi Agrawal, Sanjana Agrawal, Aishwarya Bakshi and Rajiva Agrawal at the Prayer Meet on Wednesday.

Late Manohar Dass Agrawal KARISHMA GWALANI

J

aipur’s acclaimed industrialist, Manohar Dass Agrawal passed away on Monday morning, after battling with cancer for a long time. Confirming the news, veteran industrialist’s son-in-law, Dr Sandeep Bakshi, Chancellor of Jaipur National University said that late Manohar Dass Agrawal led a remarkable life that was filled with

good, meaningful work and notable accomplishments.

The news of his demise was received in the city circles with a deep sense of loss and sorrow at the passing away of a man whose presence in itself was a source of solace for all associated with him.

A Prayer Meet was held at Arya Samaj Mandir, Raja Park on Wednesday afternoon where all the norms of COVID-19 protocols were followed. The family members, especially the grandchildren fondly shared their memories.

Messages of condolence

Dr Sandeep Bakshi

poured in from all quarters, mourning the loss of a great leader, a wonderful friend and above all, an exemplary human being.

Manohar Agrawal lived a life full of adventures and made sure that he was of great value to society through his philanthropic orientation. He was a rare and remarkable combination of someone who had a love of life and a surefooted understanding of what was important- the simplicity of living a contented life with those that you love. According to Dr Sandeep Bakshi, his father leaves behind a rich and enviable legacy for his loved ones to live up to.

Survived by his wife, four children and his treasure trove of grandchildren, he leaves behind a void that would be hard to fill.

The song may have ended, but the memory shall linger on.

—Dr SANDEEP BAKSHI

GUJARAT: Ahmedabadbased organization Dog Promise conducted ‘Special Behavioural Training Programmes’ for pet dogs on Wednesday. Over eight different breeds of puppies and dogs showed up with their owners for a two and a half-hour-long session at Sugar Rush Outdoors in the Ghuma area.

—PHOTO BY HANIF SINDHI

Taking cognizance of Covid-19 pandemic, The Institute of Company Secretaries of India has decided to conduct the first CSEET on Saturday, 29 August, through remote proctored mode instead of conducting the same from test centres. All eligible candidates would be allowed to appear for the test through laptop or desktop from home.

RAJASTHAN: To celebrate the occasion of Friendship day, a family treasure hunt was organised at Empyreal Club, Jaipur, where about 100 teams participated in the hunt, which was conducted by cars racing on the streets of the city. To maintain the norms of social distancing, every car had a maximum of four participants, and each car contested as a single team.

RAJASTHAN: Shri Ram Temple Trustee, Maharaj Devgiri greeted Dainik Nirala Rajasthan Editor, Arvind Gitesh on Wednesday.