NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday expressed positivity towards the Taliban administration's decision to restore property rights to Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan. He also raised India's concerns about the Israeli attack on the attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria which killed at least 13 people including 7 Iranian military officials and 6 Syrian nationals. "We have noted with concern the attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syria on 1st April 2024. India is distressed at the escalating tensions in West Asia, and their potential to fuel further violence and instability," Randhir Jaiswal said at a press conference. "If the Taliban administration has decided to restore property rights to Hindus and Sikhs from Afghanistan, it is something which is a positive development," he added. (With inputs from agencies) The TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of jour... Read More The TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most."Read Less

Popular from India

BJP drops CM Eknath Shinde, deputy CM Ajit Pawar from list of star campaigners in Maharashtra

Defence ministry to procure 97 LCA Mark 1As from HAL in biggest-ever indigenous military equipment order

Deaths of Indian students in US: 2 cases are under probe, MEA says

Smriti Irani's choice of words shows her mental bankruptcy: UP Congress chief Ajay Rai

'Not even Ambedkar ...': PM Modi takes on INDIA bloc's allegations of 'Constitution in danger'

end of article

Read more here:

'Positive development': MEA on Taliban 'allegedly' restoring property rights of Hindus and Sikhs - The Times of India

Most Afghan and Hindus left the country after the Taliban took over the country in 2021. Source: ANI

India considers reports of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan restoring properties to the countrys minority Hindu and Sikh community as a positive development, said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday.

Jaiswals comment comes after the Taliban recently made this claim in a media report.

The vast majority of Hindus and Sikhs left Afghanistan in 2021 when the Taliban forcefully seized power after overthrowing the democratically-elected government of the then-President Ashraf Ghani. The exodus of the communities had, however, been going on since 1970-80s when unrest began in the country following the Soviet invasion and the subsequent war and the rise of the Taliban.

Advertisement

We look at it as a positive development

When asked at the weekly press briefing about the development, Jaiswal said that we have also seen some reports of the Taliban regime restoring properties to Hindus and Sikhs. He did not confirm the development on his part.

If the Taliban administration has decided to restore properties to Hindus and Sikhs from Afghanistan who are their nations, of course, it is something which is a positive development. This is how we look at it, said Jaiswal.

Following the take-over of Afghanistan by the Taliban in 2021, India had facilitated the travel of hundreds of Hindus and Sikhs out of the country. This included many who held Afghan citizenship.

The MEA set up a Special Afghanistan Cell for the purpose and a total of 669 people were evacuated from Afghanistan under the Operation Devi Shakti which included 206 Afghan nationals including Hindu and Sikh minority community members, according to a reply of Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan to Rajya Sabha in August 2022.

In January 2023, India also facilitated the safe arrival of the final two copies of Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred book of the Sikhs, from gurudwaras in Afghanistans Ghazni and Kabul to New Delhi.

Restoring properties to Hindus, Sikhs usurped by previous rulers: Taliban

Advertisement

The self-styled Justice Ministry of the Taliban told The Hindu that a commission set up by the regime has started restoring properties of Hindus and Sikhs that were taken over during the previous governments tenures by various warlords of the country.

A commission chaired by the Minister of Justice has been established to return to their owners all properties which had been usurped by warlords during the former regime, said Suhail Shaheen, Head of the Talibans Political Office, to the newspaper.

Shaheen noted in the report that Narender Singh Khalsa, a Sikh Member of the Parliament of Afghanistan, has returned to the country under the scheme. He had arrived in India after the Taliban takeover but had moved to Canada later.

Advertisement

View original post here:

'A positive development': India on Taliban restoring properties to Hindus, Sikhs - Firstpost

The Gujarat governments recent circular has brought attention to the legal procedures surrounding conversions between Hinduism and other religions, particularly Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism.

Issued under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003, the directive clarifies that these religions are distinct from Hinduism and require prior approval from the district magistrate for conversions.

This move aims to address discrepancies in the interpretation of the law by district magistrates and ensure adherence to proper legal procedures.

Key Points:

Gujarat says permission required for Hinduism to Buddhism conversion

Buddhism was declared a separate religion under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act 2003

Circular issued by Gujarat Home Department on April 8

The prescribed format for conversions mandates detailed documentation, including personal information and event logistics, submitted by a religious leader (dharmguru) to the district magistrate.

Buddhism will be considered a separate religion. A person who converts another person from Hinduism to Buddhism, Sikhism or Jainism has to take prior permission from the District Magistrate

The response from the Gujarat Buddhist Academy (GBA) indicates support for the circular, emphasizing the independence of Buddhism from Hinduism and advocating for proper adherence to legal protocols.

Conversions to Buddhism, particularly among Dalits, reflect a broader societal desire for distinct religious and social identities.

However, recent amendments to the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, particularly regarding conversions through marriage, have faced legal challenges, highlighting ongoing debates surrounding religious freedom and regulatory measures in the state.

More:

Gujarat says Hindus need permission to convert to Buddhism - Pune Pulse

A notable Indian-American legislator has proposed a resolution in the House of Representatives denouncing Hinduphobia and other forms of hate crimes targeting the community.

The resolution, introduced by Congressman Shri Thanedar on Wednesday, highlights that Hindu Americans encounter stereotypes, misinformation regarding their heritage and symbols, and have been subjected to bullying in educational institutions along with discrimination and hateful speech.The resolution states that the House of Representatives:

Recognises and celebrates the contributions of Hindus and Hinduism to the United States.

Affirms the United States as a nation that embraces the diversity brought by Hindu Americans.

Condemns Hinduphobia, anti-Hindu prejudice, bigotry, and intolerance.

Authorizes the distribution of appropriate copies of this resolution to the public and the press.

The resolution has been forwarded to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability. It comes at a time when hate crimes against Hindus, including attacks on temples and individuals, are increasing annually, alongside a concerning rise in Hinduphobia within American society, as stated in the resolution.

Emphasising that the United States has embraced over four million Hindus from various parts of the world since the 1900s, representing diverse racial, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds, the resolution underscores the significant contributions made by Hindu Americans to every aspect of the nation's economy and various industries.

Notably, approximately two weeks ago, Indian-American Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar, Ami Bera, and Pramila Jayapal penned a letter to the Department of Justice. They requested a briefing to gain insight into the ongoing investigation concerning a surge in incidents of vandalism at places of worship nationwide, including Hindu temples. Their aim was to better understand the existing coordination among law enforcement agencies regarding these matters.

In a letter dated March 29, it was highlighted that attacks on Hindu temples spanning from New York to California have added to the growing collective anxiety among Hindu Americans. Leaders representing these affected communities have expressed dismay over the lack of leads on suspects, leaving many individuals living in fear and intimidation. Concerns persist within these communities regarding the coordination among law enforcement agencies in addressing these bias-motivated crimes. Additionally, questions arise regarding whether there is sufficient federal oversight to guarantee equal protection under the law.

The frequency of these incidents and their proximity in timing raise concerning questions about potential linkages and underlying motives. Even a small number of coordinated acts of hate can instill widespread fear within a community that has historically faced marginalisation or neglect. It's imperative that we work together to combat hate directed at all religious, ethnic, racial, and cultural minorities across America.

"Therefore, we urge you to outline the Department's strategy specifically aimed at addressing hate crimes targeting Hindus in the United States," concluded the letter.

Image Source: OP India

Read the original here:

US resolution condemns attacks on Hindu Places of Worship and Hinduphobia - MyIndMakers

Hindus in Gujarat who wish to undergo religious conversion to Buddhism, Jainism or Sikhism will need to seek their district magistrates prior approval under provisions of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, the state home department said in a circular on Monday, reported The Indian Express on Thursday.

The circular said that Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism were distinct from the Hindu religion as per the Act. It also claimed that district magistrates were not processing applications for conversion to Buddhism in compliance with the Act.

Representations are being received from applicants and autonomous bodies that for religious conversion from Hinduism to Buddhism, prior permission is not required, read the circular, signed by Deputy Secretary (Home) Vijay Badheka, according to The Indian Express.

Badheka pointed out that some officers were disposing of applications on grounds that under Article 25(2) of the Constitution, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism are included within Hinduism and so the applicant is not required to take permission for such conversions.

The circular said that such replies could lead to litigation and clarified that as per the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, the person who is getting another to convert from Hinduism to Buddhism/Sikhism/Jainism will have to take prior permission of the district magistrate in a prescribed format.

District magistrates, on the other hand, were directed to decide on religious conversion applications only after a detailed study of the governing legal provisions, and in step with the state governments instructions.

Gujarat has seen several mass conversion events in recent years where people belonging mostly to Dalit communities have embraced Buddhism, reported The Indian Express.

In October, nearly 400 Hindus converted to Buddhism at an event organised by Gujarat Buddhist Academy in Ahmedabad on Dussehra. In April 2023, nearly 50,000 Dalits and Adivasis had converted to Buddhism to mark the 132nd birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and an anti-caste leader, reported The New Indian Express.

Ramesh Banker, the secretary of the Gujarat Buddhist Academy, welcomed the governments circular, which he cited as evidence of Buddhism being a separate religion that had nothing to do with Hinduism.

We believed from the beginning that Buddhism is not a part of Hinduism and for conversion to Buddhism, prior permission of the district magistrate is mandatory, Banker said. It was our demand [that such a clarification be issued], which has been fulfilled. In our conversion events, we have always followed procedure.

View post:

Hindus need approval before converting to Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, says Gujarat government - Scroll.in

New Delhi: The Gujarat government has issued a circular stating that Buddhism is counted as a separate religion and so anyone converting from Hinduism to Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism needs to get approval from the local district magistrate as defined under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003.

According to The Indian Express, this circular was issued on March 8 by the Gujarat home department after it came to the notice of the government that applications seeking conversion to Buddhism were not being dealt with as per rules.

Every year, the state sees mass conversions by Dalits to Buddhism on festivals like Dussehra.

it has come to notice that in applications seeking permission for conversion from Hinduism to Buddhism, procedure as per rules are not being followed. Moreover, sometimes, representations are being received from applicants and autonomous bodies that for religious conversion from Hinduism to Buddhism, prior permission is not required, the circular stated.

In cases where applications are filed seeking prior permission, concerned offices are disposing such applications while stating that under Article 25(2) of the Constitution, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism are included within Hinduism and so the applicant is not required to take permission for (such) religious conversion, it continued.

It is possible that the replies given to applicants in sensitive subject like religious conversion without sufficient study of legal provisions can result in judicial litigations, according to the circular.

A home department official told The Indian Express that this circular had been issued as a clarification. Some district magistrates were wrongly interpreting the Act and its rules while deciding applications of the religious conversion from Hinduism to Budhhism. Also, some district magistrates had sought guidance on the subject. So, we have issued the clarification through this circular, the official said.

Several Buddhist groups organise mass conversions for Dalits inspired by Dr B.R. Ambedkar.

Ramesh Banker, the secretary of one such group Gujarat Buddhist Academy, told The Indian Express, This circular has made it clear that Buddhism is a separate religion and it has nothing to do with Hinduism. The confusion was created by (some in the) administration while misinterpreting the law. We believed from the beginning that Buddhism is not a part of Hinduism and for conversion to Buddhism, prior permission of the district magistrate is mandatory in a prescribed format. It was our demand (to issue such a clarification), which has been fulfilled.

Read the original:

Gujarat Govt Circular 'Clarifies' Hindus Converting to Buddhism Need Prior Permission - The Wire

In a unique initiative aimed at recognising and honouring individuals dedicated to the cause of Hindutva and cultural nationalism, the second edition of the Akshayya Hindu Awards ceremony is set to take place in May 2024. Building upon the success of its inaugural event in 2023, this years ceremony promises to be even more impactful, with increased awards and a broader scope for nominations.

The brainchild of like-minded individuals committed to promoting the values of Hinduism and nationalism, the Akshayya Hindu Awards seek to acknowledge the contributions of grassroots workers across various domains related to Hindutva. Inspired by the vision of action advocated by revered figures such as Samarth Ramdas, the organizers emphasize the importance of tangible efforts in advancing the cause.

Shefali Vaidya hailed the initiative about honouring those who are relentlessly working for the cause of Hindutva and cultural nationalism

Central to the ethos of the Akshayya Hindu Awards is the principle of community participation. Unlike traditional award ceremonies, where nominations often come from select committees or political leaders, the Akshayya Hindu Awards rely on the involvement of the public. This ensures that the recognition is truly representative of the collective efforts of the Hindutva movement.

Google Form Link : https://forms.gle/VDSAf2rpe1C1JTJL7

In line with this ethos, the organisers have outlined three key criteria for the awards. Firstly, nominations must come from the public, reflecting the inclusive nature of Hindutva as a societal endeavour. Secondly, the focus is on honouring ground-level workers who are actively engaged in promoting Hindutva ideals, with a deliberate exclusion of political figures from the nomination process. Finally, the awards are presented under the banner of the Hindu Humanist Indian Nationalist Democratic Union (HHINDU), symbolising the unity and diversity inherent within the community.

The format of the awards draws inspiration from Kodanddhari Shriram, a symbol of valour and righteousness in Hindu mythology. Recipients of the Akshayya Hindu Awards receive a cash prize of ten thousand rupees each, along with a set of books authored by leading proponents of Rashtravadi thought.

The awards are presented across five categories, representing different dimensions of Hindutva activism. These include cow protection, religious awareness, social harmony, social awareness (literature, art, media), and tribal welfare. By recognising individuals working in diverse fields, the Akshayya Hindu Awards highlight the multifaceted nature of the Hindutva movement and its impact on society.

Nominations for the awards are open to the public, with a Google form available for submissions. Interested individuals can either nominate themselves or recommend others for consideration. The deadline for nominations is April 15, with the final selection process overseen by the organising committee.

It was last year, in 2023, that the awards were launched for the first time. A diverse array of activists from various backgrounds and regions who made significant contributions to their communities, driven by a shared commitment to serving God, country, and religion, were recognised for their work.

From Shalutai Kolhes efforts to empower women from scheduled tribes in Gondia district to Swati Shilkars dedication to Gorakshan in Goa, and the courageous work of Dinesh and Sneha Joshi in rescuing Hindu girls from Love Jihad in Nagar, these individuals exemplify the spirit of service and sacrifice. Whether its Kumar Panjalars diligent work or Ashutosh Adonijis insightful statements, each persons experience and contribution are invaluable in advancing the causes they believe in. Their collective efforts reflect a deep-rooted commitment to addressing societal challenges and promoting the values of faith, patriotism, and social justice.

Subscribe to updates Unsubscribe from updates

See the article here:

Akshayya Hindu Award: Call for nominations to honour those dedicated to cause of Hinduism and cultural nationalism - Organiser

The external affairs ministry said it has seen reports of the Taliban Justice Ministry taking steps to restore property to displaced members of the Hindu and Sikh communities and said it is a positive development".

We have seen reports on this issue. If the Taliban Administration has decided to restore property rights to their citizens belonging to Afghan Hindu and Sikh community, we see this as a positive development," the ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

The news of restoration of properties of displaced members of the Hindu and Sikh communities was first reported by The Hindu, which cited a senior Taliban official.

The report named the official as Suhail Shaheen, head of the political office of the Taliban.

The report said that Taliban has set up a commission to ensure return of Hindu and Sikh families who have played a historic role in the Afghan economy.

A commission chaired by the Minister of Justice has been established to return to their owners all properties which had been usurped by warlords during the former regime," Shaheen was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

Shaheen also drew attention to the return of Narender Singh Khalsa, a former member of the parliament of Afghanistan. The parliament was dissolved following the terrorist groups takeover the nation in 2021 following the withdrawal of the American forces.

Many Sikhs and Hindus left Afghanistan following the takeover of Taliban fearing they will be targeted for their faith and beliefs. But Hindus and Sikhs were also targeted by fighters of the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) who soon after US withdrawal positioned itself as a challenger to the Taliban.

In 2022, it launched a series of ferocious attacks on Hindus and Sikhs, targeting a gurdwara on one occasion, forcing the Sikhs living there to bring the last two swaroops of the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul to New Delhi in January 2023.

The Hindu and Sikh communities, historically present in Afghanistan, make up about 1% of its population. Their displacement began in the late 1970s and 1980s amidst political upheaval and the Soviet occupation. The rise of the Taliban and ongoing conflict led to further exodus, reducing their numbers drastically.

(with inputs from Abhishek Jha)

first published: April 12, 2024, 17:01 IST

Read this article:

Positive Development: MEA On Reports Of Taliban Restoring Property Rights Of Displaced Hindus, Sikhs - News18

Navratri 2024: Chaitra Navratri reminds that light will always triumph over darkness.

Navratri, meaning "nine nights", is a vibrant festival celebrated with fervour and devotion across India and among Hindu community worldwide. Chaitra Navratri, specifically observed in the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra (March-April), holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. Lasting for nine days, this festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various forms, representing the triumph of good over evil. The festival will begin on April 9, 2024 (Tuesday) and continue till April 17. Chaitra Navratri also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year in many parts of India, especially in North India.

Chaitra Navratri is considered an auspicious time for spiritual renewal, cleansing and seeking the blessings of the divine. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness, righteousness over wickedness and knowledge over ignorance.

Each day of Navratri is also associated with a specific colour, with devotees wearing attire corresponding to the day's colour as a form of reverence and devotion. The colours vary from region to region but commonly include red, yellow, green, grey, orange, blue, white, pink and purple.

Devotees observe a range of rituals during Chaitra Navratri, including fasting, prayer, meditation and attending elaborate ceremonies at temples dedicated to Goddess Durga. Each day is associated with the worship of a different form of the Goddess, known as Navadurga, symbolising various virtues and aspects of feminine energy.

The forms include Ma Shailputri, Ma Brahmacharini, Ma Chandraghanta, Ma Kushmanda, Ma Skandamata, Ma Katyayani, Ma Kaalratri, Ma Mahagauri and Ma Siddhidatri.

The festival concludes on the ninth day with Ram Navami, the birth anniversary of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Devotees celebrate this day with special prayers, hymns, and offerings, seeking blessings for prosperity, happiness, and spiritual fulfilment.

Chaitra Navratri is not just a religious festival but also a celebration of unity, harmony and cultural heritage. It brings people from diverse backgrounds together, fostering a sense of community, shared values, and devotion to the divine feminine energy.

Read more:

Chaitra Navratri 2024: Significance, Rituals And All You Need To Know - NDTV

Ahmedabad: The Gujarat government, which issued a circular earlier this week designating Buddhism as a distinct religion has ruled, under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003, that conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism will now necessitate prior approval from respective district magistrates.

This directive, released by the state home department on April 8, aims to address concerns regarding the handling of conversion applications.

Highlighting discrepancies in the interpretation of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act by district magistrate offices, the circular underscored the necessity of adhering to prescribed procedures for conversion applications. It acknowledged instances where applicants and autonomous bodies contesting the need for prior permission for conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism.

Also Read: Legally Speaking | Are laws that prevent forced conversions really about freedom to practise religion?

The circular warned against potential legal challenges stemming from inadequate understanding of legal provisions surrounding religious conversions. It underscored the need for a thorough examination of the legal framework by district magistrates when evaluating conversion applications.

Weve observed a lapse in adhering to the prescribed procedure for applications seeking permission for Hinduism to Buddhism conversions. Furthermore, weve received feedback from applicants and autonomous bodies suggesting that prior permission is unnecessary for such religious conversions, the notification said.

Emphasising the separate status of Buddhism under the Act, the circular mandated that those facilitating conversions must obtain prior permission from the district magistrate. Additionally, individuals undergoing conversion are required to inform the district magistrate accordingly.

District magistrates are instructed to meticulously review conversion applications in accordance with legal provisions and state government directives. This move seeks to streamline the process and ensure consistency in the handling of religious conversion applications across Gujarat.

Also Read: Chhattisgarhs previous brush with anti-conversion bill

The relevant Act was introduced by the government with the aim of curbing religious conversions achieved through methods such as allurement, coercion, misrepresentation, or any other fraudulent means. In an amendment introduced in 2021, the Act was revised to explicitly prohibit forced religious conversions through marriage.

The Act includes stringent penalties, with offenders facing a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching up to 5 lakh. Notably, the burden of proof rests on the accused, and investigations into such matters are to be conducted by officers holding the rank of deputy superintendent of police or higher. However, the amended Act has faced legal challenges, with its validity currently being contested before the Gujarat High Court.

Get Current Updates on India News, Lok Sabha Election 2024 Live, Election 2024 along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.

Read more:

Gujarat govt notice requires Hindus to seek permission for converting to Buddhism - Hindustan Times