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A Stirring Salute to a Forgotten Patriot: The Relevance of Kesari Chapter 2 in Today’s India

By
Vaidehi Taman
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kesari chapter 2, kesari, akshay kumar, r madhavan, jallianwala bagh massacre, jallianwala bagh
A Stirring Salute to a Forgotten Patriot: The Relevance of Kesari Chapter 2 in Today’s India 2

It is important—indeed, imperative—to remember and revere the lives of nationalists who carved the path of India’s freedom with both intellect and courage. Among such stalwarts was Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair, a towering yet under-recognized figure in India’s freedom struggle. The newly released film Kesari Chapter 2, which premiered on 18 April 2025 to mark the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, is a powerful cinematic resurrection of his story—a tale that not only demands remembrance but commands deep reflection.

Directed with conviction and emotional depth, Kesari Chapter 2 serves as a divine sequel to the 2019 film Kesari, and this time, it transports us into the judicial corridors of colonial India, where morality battled might, and a single man stood unshaken against an Empire. Inspired by the book “The Case That Shook the Empire” by Raghu and Pushpa Palat, the film unfolds the extraordinary life of C. Sankaran Nair—a man of law, letters, and national resolve—who dared to indict the British Crown for the genocide at Amritsar.

In an era when Jallianwala Bagh has become a mere pitstop on the tourist trail, stripped of its original context and diluted in collective memory, this film restores its place as a searing symbol of British brutality and Indian resistance. Through a gripping courtroom drama, the movie recounts Nair’s decision to legally challenge General Reginald Dyer, the architect of the massacre. Assigned to “investigate” the incident with an expected cover-up in mind, Nair instead chose truth over complicity, a choice that led him to sue the British government and Dyer himself.

The narrative is enriched by a supporting cast of compelling characters—Pargat Singh, a fiery young revolutionary, and Dilreet Gill, a bold law student—who accompany Nair in his crusade for justice. On the other side stands Neville McKinley, a bitter Anglo-Indian lawyer fueled by personal vendetta and colonial allegiance, setting the stage for a courtroom clash that transcends mere legalities—it becomes a battle for the soul of a nation.

As a writer and citizen, I cannot help but feel deeply moved by the decision to bring such a monumental yet forgotten chapter of Indian history to the screen. Sir Sankaran Nair’s unwavering stand against the British Raj, his dignified dissent within the Viceroy’s Executive Council, and his fierce critique of imperialism have been masterfully portrayed, reminding us that not all battles are fought with guns—some are fought with words, reason, and moral integrity.

The film is not just a biopic—it is a clarion call to today’s youth. It urges us to seek inspiration not merely from trending hashtags but from the pages of our own past. How many among us, even those moderately aware of India’s freedom struggle, truly knew the legacy of Chettur Sankaran Nair before this film? His contributions were vast—Advocate-General of Madras, puisne justice of the Madras High Court, Education Minister on the Viceroy’s Council, President of the Indian National Congress in 1897, and a relentless proponent of Dominion Status for India.

Born in the illustrious Chettur family of Mankara, Palakkad, Nair’s journey was that of brilliance from the very beginning. From his early education at Kozhikode and Madras to his law degree and judicial appointments, he was a man deeply rooted in both tradition and intellect. His wife, Palat Kunhimalu Amma (Lady Sankaran Nair), stood by his side, and their family continued the legacy of distinction.

His resignation from the Viceroy’s Council in 1919, post the Jallianwala massacre, was not merely symbolic—it was a thunderous statement. Even in retirement, his influence continued, whether through his critique in Gandhi and Anarchy (1922) or his active involvement with the Simon Commission deliberations. When others sought relevance through political convenience, Nair sought it through truth and principle.

To the filmmakers, I offer my deepest respect and admiration. You have not only brought history alive—you have ignited a conscience. In an age where content often panders to escapism, Kesari Chapter 2 dares to educate, elevate, and inspire. It reminds us that behind every Independence Day celebration, there were voices like Nair’s that roared in courtrooms, councils, and conventions, demanding dignity for a nation that had been long denied it.

In conclusion, this film is more than a tribute—it is a torch. A torch passed from one generation to another. Let it burn in our hearts. Let it light the minds of the youth. And let us never again forget the name Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair—the man who took the Empire to court and, with a pen sharper than a sword, struck a blow for Bharat Mata.

Jai Hind.

Bombay HC Shields Kunal Kamra from Arrest, But Defamation Probe Over ‘Traitor’ Jibe to Continue

By
Web Team
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kunal kamra, bombay high court, bombay hc, kamra, defamation, shinde, traitor, eknath shinde
Bombay HC Shields Kunal Kamra from Arrest, But Defamation Probe Over 'Traitor' Jibe to Continue 4

The Bombay High Court on Friday granted comedian Kunal Kamra permanent protection from arrest in connection with a criminal case registered against him in Mumbai for his satirical jibes directed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The court, however, allowed the investigation to continue.

A division bench of Justices Sarang Kotwal and SM Modak ruled that if the police intend to question Kamra, they must do so in Chennai, where he is a permanent resident, with prior notice and assistance from local authorities. The bench also directed that no trial court proceedings can commence against Kamra unless the High Court decides on his plea to quash the FIR.

The case stems from a March 23 video uploaded to Kamra’s YouTube channel, where he performed a parody song criticizing Shinde—without naming him directly—by alluding to his 2022 rebellion against then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, which triggered a major political upheaval in Maharashtra. In the video, Kamra referred to the political defector as a “traitor.”

Following the viral video, Shinde supporters from the Shiv Sena faction allegedly vandalized The Habitat, the Khar-based studio where the act was filmed. On March 24, Mumbai Police booked Kamra under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita’s provisions for defamation and public mischief. Though summoned thrice for questioning, Kamra has yet to appear before investigators.

Earlier, the Bombay High Court had granted Kamra interim protection from arrest on April 16, which has now been made permanent. The Madras High Court had also extended him interim protection until April 17, recognizing his residence in Tamil Nadu.

While Kamra’s legal team argues that the satire was within the bounds of free speech, the controversy continues to stir debates on the limits of political humour and freedom of expression in India.

Medha Patkar Arrested, Freed Hours Later in 24-Year-Old Defamation Case Involving Delhi LG

By
Web Team
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medha patkar, defamation case, vk saxena, delhi court, court
Medha Patkar Arrested, Freed Hours Later in 24-Year-Old Defamation Case Involving Delhi LG 6

Activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar was arrested on Friday and released hours later after furnishing bond assurances in a 24-year-old defamation case filed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The arrest followed a non-bailable warrant issued earlier this week after Patkar failed to submit probation bonds as directed by the court.

The case dates back to 2001, when Saxena, then heading the Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties, accused Patkar of defamation over a press note titled “True Face of Patriot” issued by her on November 25, 2000. The note, according to the court, questioned Saxena’s patriotism and integrity, calling it a “direct attack” on his personal character and public image.

In May, Patkar was convicted of criminal defamation under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code. While the court granted her one year’s probation in April citing the non-grave nature of the offense, it warned that failing to follow the terms—including furnishing probation bonds and paying a ₹1 lakh fine—would nullify the leniency.

Patkar was expected to appear before the court on Wednesday but remained absent, prompting the judge to issue the warrant, stating she was “deliberately violating the directions.” She was arrested Friday morning and produced before Additional Sessions Judge Vipin Kharb at Saket Court, who allowed her release after her counsel assured that the probation terms would be met later that day.

The case was initially filed in an Ahmedabad court and later transferred to Delhi in 2003. Patkar pleaded not guilty in 2013, but the judgment in May ruled that her statements caused potential irreversible damage to Saxena’s public standing, especially given the sensitive nature of patriotic identity in public discourse.

Lashkar Commander Altaf Lalli Gunned Down in Bandipora: Army Hits Back Days After Pahalgam Massacre

By
Web Team
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Lashkar Commander, altaf lalli, bandipora, kashmir, indian army
Lashkar Commander Altaf Lalli Gunned Down in Bandipora: Army Hits Back Days After Pahalgam Massacre 8

In a major breakthrough against terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian security forces on Friday eliminated top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Altaf Lalli during an encounter in the Bandipora district. The operation comes just days after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people, mostly tourists, dead, sending shockwaves across the nation.

The joint forces launched a cordon and search operation in Kulnar Bazipora area of Bandipora after receiving intelligence inputs about the presence of militants. As the search intensified, the hiding terrorists opened fire on security personnel, triggering a fierce gunfight in which Lalli was gunned down. Two police personnel were injured during the exchange of fire.

Altaf Lalli was a top LeT commander and considered a key player in orchestrating attacks in the Kashmir Valley. His neutralization is seen as a significant blow to the terror network operating in the region.

Coinciding with the encounter, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Kashmir to assess the security situation following the recent spate of violence. Accompanied by Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Commander of the Northern Command, the Army Chief held high-level security briefings with top commanders to review strategies and actions taken post-Pahalgam massacre.

This high-profile visit also comes on the heels of cross-border provocation, as Pakistan resorted to small arms firing along the Line of Control less than 24 hours earlier. The swift elimination of a key Lashkar figure signals India’s hardened stance and accelerated counter-terror operations in the Valley.

“Will Hunt Them to the Ends of the Earth”: PM Modi’s Fierce Warning After Pahalgam Terror Attack

By
Web Team
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pm modi, narendra modi, terror attack, pahalgam, pm narendra modi, pakistan
"Will Hunt Them to the Ends of the Earth": PM Modi's Fierce Warning After Pahalgam Terror Attack 10

In a fiery response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist involved and their backers, promising retribution “beyond their imagination.” Addressing a public gathering in Bihar during the National Panchayati Raj Day programme, Modi stated emphatically that terrorism would not go unpunished and that the enemies of the country had dared to strike at the very soul of India.

“Today, from the soil of Bihar, I say to the whole world—India will not spare those who kill innocents. We will hunt them down to the ends of the earth,” Modi said to thunderous applause, marking his first public reaction since the heinous attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam, where at least 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by terrorists.

Calling for unity and resilience, the Prime Minister said, “India’s spirit will never be broken by terrorism. Every effort will be made to ensure justice is served. Terrorism will be crushed with full force.” Modi also extended his gratitude to global leaders and nations standing in solidarity with India during this time.

At the event, Modi and the audience observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to the victims, whom he referred to as “our family members.” Modi urged the public to remain seated in silence, honoring those who lost their lives in the brutal act of terror.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also condemned the attack and reiterated that the entire nation stands united in the fight against terrorism. Union Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh expressed confidence in Modi’s leadership, assuring the public that a strong response to the attackers was imminent.

How Many More Pahalgams? When Will Accountability Begin?

By
Vaidehi Taman
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pahalgam, terror attack, pahalgam attack, kashmir, attack, terrorist attack, intelligence, amit shah, narendra modi, hindu
How Many More Pahalgams? When Will Accountability Begin? 12

How many more Pahalgams must be written into our national tragedy before someone in power finally stands up—not with hollow statements or political blame games but with real accountability? The horrific terrorist attack in the serene Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam has once again shattered the illusion of normalcy in Kashmir. Twenty-six innocent lives were extinguished in a hail of bullets, and the question that echoes louder than the gunfire is, ‘Why was this allowed to happen again?

With every such attack, we witness a predictable ritual: condemnation from the government, outrage on social media, candlelight vigils, and then silence. Until the next massacre. But this is not just about public mourning—it is about institutional failure at the highest level. The intelligence agencies, armed forces, and the government machinery were caught napping again. Why is our response always reactive, never preventive?

This massacre was not an isolated incident—it was a calculated, symbolic strike, executed during the high-profile four-day visit of US President JD Vance. Have we learnt nothing from the past? The Chittisinghpura massacre of 2000 happened on the eve of President Clinton’s visit. Thirty-five Sikh villagers were massacred by men in army fatigues who introduced themselves as Indian soldiers before lining up the victims and executing them. Even today, the truth of who perpetrated that attack remains murky, shrouded in state secrecy and political expediency.

In 2017, Lt Gen KS Gill openly claimed that a report was submitted to the then Home Minister L.K. Advani. Where is that report now? Why hasn’t it been made public? Why has no action followed? If our own institutions cannot come clean about past failures, how can we expect justice for today’s victims?

Kashmir has become a carefully curated news cycle of blood and apathy. Pulwama, Chittisinghpura, Uri, Nowgam, and now Pahalgam—each tragedy is consumed with outrage, only to be forgotten and replaced. We call these “incidents” when in reality they are manifestations of a broken security doctrine, repeated proof that something is deeply wrong with our intelligence gathering, counter-terror strategy, and political will.

The “Kashmir Resistance” group, which claimed responsibility for this latest attack, cited “demographic change” as the reason, referring to the settling of 85,000 outsiders. How is it that armed militants have access to such precise grievances while our agencies remain clueless? How does a group penetrate such a sensitive tourist zone and operate with impunity in a highly militarised region?

Despite the abrogation of Article 370 and the promise of peace and integration, what we are witnessing is not normalcy—it’s managed chaos. Kashmiris are caught between two extremes: foreign-backed terror and domestic political manipulation. And now, tourists too have become collateral damage in this game of blood and betrayal.

It is no longer enough to blame Pakistan for every failure. That script is tired. Yes, Pakistan sponsors terror. Yes, they harbour criminals. But what about us? What about the state’s responsibility to prevent attacks on its soil? What about the promises made by leaders, the declarations of peace, development, and security?

Every time Kashmir bleeds, the response is a display of state power after the fact—flag marches, helicopter evacuations, increased troop deployment. But by then, the blood has already soaked the soil, and the dead can no longer hear the speeches.

Where are the heads rolling in Delhi? Who has resigned? Who has been sacked? Who has taken moral responsibility? Why are bureaucrats and ministers still in office after repeated security collapses? If this were any other democracy, there would be public enquiries, resignations, and swift corrective action. Here, there is silence.

The people of India deserve better. The people of Kashmir deserve justice. And the victims of Pahalgam deserve far more than our sympathy—they deserve truth, accountability, and above all, a system that values their lives enough to prevent the next massacre.

Until that happens, Kashmir will remain a graveyard of promises—where the only constant is grief, and the only question that remains unanswered is: how many more must die before someone is held accountable?

Terrorists Forced My Father to Recite Islamic Verse Before Shooting Him, Says Daughter in Kashmir Attack

By
Web Team
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pahalgam, terror attack, religion, hindu, kashmir
Terrorists Forced My Father to Recite Islamic Verse Before Shooting Him, Says Daughter in Kashmir Attack 14

In a heart-wrenching account from the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Asavari Jagdale, 26, recounted how terrorists brutally murdered her father, Santosh Jagdale, 54, in front of her. The Pune businessman, along with his family, was enjoying a vacation at the scenic Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam when terrorists opened fire on tourists. Asavari, speaking in a telephonic interview to PTI, described how the terrorists forced her father to recite an Islamic verse before shooting him thrice—once in the head, again behind the ear, and finally in the back.

The family, terrified and huddling inside a tent for cover, watched as the assailants turned on her uncle, who was lying beside her, and shot him multiple times in the back. The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, marked one of the deadliest incidents in Kashmir in recent years.

Asavari, who works as an HR professional in Pune, said the family had been in the valley, often called “Mini Switzerland,” when they heard gunshots. Initially assuming the firing was a confrontation between terrorists and security forces, they took shelter inside a nearby tent. But the gunmen soon approached, ordering her father out of the tent and accusing them of supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After demanding he recite an Islamic verse, and when he couldn’t, they executed him in cold blood.

Asavari and her mother, along with another relative, were spared, and locals and security forces evacuated them to Pahalgam Club. However, Asavari remains uncertain about the condition of her father and uncle, as they have yet to receive any medical updates.

Terror Attack in Pahalgam: 26 Dead, Mostly Hindu Tourists, in Kashmir’s Deadliest Assault Since Pulwama

By
Web Team
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pahalgam, terror attack, kashmir, pulwama, hindu, attack
Terror Attack in Pahalgam: 26 Dead, Mostly Hindu Tourists, in Kashmir's Deadliest Assault Since Pulwama 16

In a gruesome act of terror, 26 people, including two foreigners and two locals, were killed in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday afternoon. The attack occurred at the picturesque Baisaran meadow, a popular tourist spot near Pahalgam, as terrorists opened fire on unsuspecting tourists. The assailants targeted those enjoying their day with pony rides, picnicking, and strolling near the eateries.

Witnesses described the horrifying scene of gunfire echoing through the meadow, with people frantically seeking cover, but there was nowhere to hide in the open space. Many of the victims were tourists from various states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Among the dead was a businessman from Shivamogga, Karnataka. Over 20 people were also injured in the assault.

The terrorist group, The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the attack. Authorities suspect that the terrorists might have crossed over from Kishtwar in Jammu and reached Baisaran through Kokernag in south Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is visiting Saudi Arabia, and soon after, an urgent security review meeting was held. Prime Minister Modi condemned the attack, expressing condolences to the families of the victims and vowing that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.

The attack, which unfolded as Kashmir’s tourist season was gaining momentum, comes just days after increased tourist arrivals in the region. The attack is the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing, which killed 40 CRPF personnel. The shockwaves of the Pahalgam attack have left the region on edge, with both local authorities and national security agencies on high alert.

SC to Hear Contempt Plea Against BJP’s Nishikant Dubey Over CJI ‘Civil War’ Remark

By
Web Team
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nishikant dubey, contempt proceedings, supreme court, contempt of court, bjp
SC to Hear Contempt Plea Against BJP's Nishikant Dubey Over CJI 'Civil War' Remark 18

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it will hear next week a contempt plea filed against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for his controversial remarks blaming Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna for “civil wars” in the country. The matter was brought before a Bench comprising Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih by a lawyer who highlighted that the Attorney General had not responded to the request for sanction to initiate contempt proceedings.

“The remark is viral. Dubey says CJI responsible for civil wars. No reply from Attorney (General),” the lawyer said, prompting Justice Gavai to respond, “List it next week.”

Dubey had sharply criticized the judiciary, claiming that if the Supreme Court continues to frame laws, then Parliament and state assemblies might as well be shut down. His comments came after the Centre assured the court that it would hold off on implementing controversial provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, following judicial scrutiny.

The BJP was quick to distance itself from Dubey’s explosive comments. Party president J.P. Nadda called the statements personal opinions and reiterated the BJP’s “utmost respect for the judiciary,” instructing party leaders to refrain from such remarks in the future.

Porsche Crash Blood Swap Scandal: Doctors’ Licenses Suspended Over Tampering Evidence

By
Web Team
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pune porsche, pune case, hit and run case, doctors,
Porsche Crash Blood Swap Scandal: Doctors' Licenses Suspended Over Tampering Evidence 20

In a dramatic development nearly a year after the Porsche car crash in Pune that killed two software professionals, the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) has suspended the licenses of two doctors involved in tampering with evidence. Dr. Ajay Taware and Dr. Shrihari Halnor, both employed at the government-run Sassoon General Hospital at the time, were arrested for allegedly swapping blood samples of the teenage driver involved in the fatal accident.

The incident, which occurred on May 19, 2024, involved a 17-year-old driver, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, who ran over two IT professionals on a motorcycle in Pune’s Kalyani Nagar. To avoid detection of alcohol, the doctors are accused of swapping the juvenile’s blood sample with that of his mother, according to police.

The MMC took suo motu cognizance of the matter after the doctors were booked for their involvement in the tampering. Despite their detention in judicial custody, the council proceeded with the suspension of their licenses, effectively barring them from practicing medicine. The suspension will remain in effect until the case reaches its final resolution.

In addition to the two doctors, hospital staffer Atul Ghatkamble has also been arrested for his role in the alleged evidence manipulation. The juvenile driver, the son of a real estate developer, has since been released from an observation home, while ten others, including his parents, hospital staff, and alleged middlemen, remain in judicial custody as the investigation continues.

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