Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to watch the film 'The Sabarmati Report' on Monday, after lauding it for "revealing the truth" behind the Godhra train tragedy. The film has also been declared tax-free in many BJP-ruled states in a move to promote its portrayal of the "reality" of the incident. After watching the film, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath congratulated the filmmakers and praised the film for exposing certain individuals and their malicious narratives. Starring Vikrant Massey, the film depicts a Hindi journalist who stands up to the system for covering the truth in his reportage.
Godhra Train Tragedy: A Controversial Film Sparks Debate
The Godhra train tragedy of 2002 remains a highly controversial and polarizing event in Indian history. The upcoming film "The Sabarmati Report" has reignited discussions about the incident, prompting political reactions and public debate.
Background:
On February 27, 2002, a train carrying Hindu pilgrims was attacked by a Muslim mob near the town of Godhra in Gujarat. Fifty-nine people were killed in the incident, sparking widespread riots and communal violence across the state. The Gujarat government, led by Narendra Modi at the time, was accused of failing to protect the victims and inciting violence.
The Sabarmati Report Film:
"The Sabarmati Report," directed by Dushyant Pratap Singh, is based on the book of the same name by a Hindi journalist. The film alleges that the Godhra tragedy was a conspiracy orchestrated by certain individuals and groups with malicious intentions. It depicts the protagonist, a journalist, who uncovers the truth despite facing resistance from the system.
Political Reactions:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the film for "revealing the truth" about Godhra. Several BJP-ruled states have declared it tax-free to promote its portrayal of the incident.
In contrast, opposition parties and critics have accused the film of being politically motivated and distorting the facts. They claim that it is an attempt to whitewash the government's failures and exonerate those responsible for the violence.
FAQs:
1. What was the Godhra train tragedy? It was an attack on a train carrying Hindu pilgrims on February 27, 2002, which led to 59 deaths and widespread communal violence in Gujarat.
2. Who is responsible for the Godhra incident? A Muslim mob carried out the attack, but investigations and trials have been controversial, leading to accusations of a cover-up.
3. What is "The Sabarmati Report"? It is a book and now a film that alleges a conspiracy behind the Godhra tragedy and accuses certain individuals of orchestrating it.
4. Why is "The Sabarmati Report" controversial? It is seen as politically motivated by some and as distorting the facts by others. It has reignited the debate about the Godhra incident and the role of the government at the time.
5. What is the significance of the film's tax-free status in BJP-ruled states? It is a promotional move by the ruling party to encourage the film's distribution and presentation of its version of the Godhra incident.
Activists and advocacy groups staged massive demonstrations across the country in response to what they see as President Trump's abuse of power. With signs protesting policies such as mass deportations and the federal government shutdown, protestors showed a fierce love for their country. Though there were no reports of violence or arrests, Republicans labeled the demonstrations as "hate America" rallies. Organizers estimate that nearly 7 million people participated in over 2,700 cities and towns throughout the U.S., making it one of the largest reported one-day protests in American history.
With the 2025 Assembly Elections in Bihar on the horizon, the state's Araria constituency is gearing up for an intense revision of its electoral roll. This decision by the Election Commission aims to ensure that all eligible citizens are registered to vote in the upcoming elections. In the last election, the Congress emerged victorious in the constituency, but with no candidates declared yet, all eyes are on the official schedule for the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Andhra Pradesh marked Dhanvantari Jayanti with a colorful rally and speeches highlighting social inclusion, cultural heritage, and development. Leading state and district leaders, including BJP State president PVN Madhav, addressed the gathering and emphasized the party's commitment to equal respect for all religions and welfare initiatives for marginalized groups. At another event, Telangana BJP president Ramachandra Rao endorsed a proposed reservation for backward classes in Telangana and criticized the Congress and other parties for corruption while touting BJP's claim of clean governance.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while flagging off the first batch of BrahMos missiles in Lucknow, warned Pakistan that their entire territory is now within range of India's powerful missiles. Singh also highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, stating that it was just a glimpse of India's growing capabilities. The minister emphasized that BrahMos serves as a symbol of India's strategic confidence and is a key pillar of the country's defence forces.
Crowds gathered in various cities across the US and overseas today for the No Kings rallies, organized to protest against President Trump's administration and to defend First Amendment rights. From Los Angeles and New York to Chicago, Washington D.C, and Austin, Texas, protesters marched and chanted, carrying homemade signs with messages such as "We want all of the government to work" and "Make America Good Again." Despite the festive atmosphere, the message was serious as speakers called for the protection of Constitutional rights, which they feel are being threatened by the current administration.
After issuing directions earlier this year to expedite the disposal of execution petitions, the Supreme Court has expressed disappointment over the fact that more than 8.8 lakh such petitions are still pending across the country. Despite disposing of 3.38 lakh petitions since March, the Court notes that the backlog is still concerning. It warns that delay in executing decrees could result in travesty of justice and directs the Karnataka High Court to provide an explanation for not submitting data on pending cases.
With election results just around the corner, the Union Home Minister has reiterated the BJP's respect for its alliance partners. The decision on forming a government in light of the election outcome will be based on the results and mutually agreed upon by all parties involved. Stay updated with News24 for the latest developments in the political sphere.
In a surprise move, President Donald Trump has commuted the sentence of former U.S. Representative George Santos, who was serving a seven-year prison term for fraud and identity theft. Santos, a New York Republican, admitted to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of 11 people, including family members, to fund his campaign. The decision was announced by Trump on social media, spurring strong reactions from both supporters and critics.
In a significant development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's third production line for the LCA Tejas Mk1A and also witnessed the aircraft's successful maiden flight in Nashik. The event also marked the inauguration of HAL's second production line for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40). With the approval of the purchase of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, the need for new inductions has been underlined by IAF chief AP Singh, while HAL officials remain confident in meeting this requirement.
In a significant development, over 200 Maoist rebels, including top leaders Rupesh and Ranita, have surrendered to Indian security forces in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. This marks a critical moment in the long-standing fight against Naxalism in the country. The region of Abujhmarh and North Bastar, known for its dense forests and difficult terrain, has historically served as a safe haven for Maoist groups, making it challenging for authorities to root out their presence. The massive surrender of Maoists is not only a tactical win but also a symbolic victory in the government's efforts to rid the "Red Corridor" of Naxalite influence.