Our journey began in Guwahati, with our car packed and ready, and our first stop was the Assam Skill University.

Assam Skill University
Established to meet the evolving skill demands of the state, Assam Skill University offers education in emerging fields such as manufacturing (including Industry 4.0), services, automobiles, IT, healthcare, construction, banking, hospitality, tourism, and agriculture. The university’s Chancellor and Assam’s Chief Minister, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, beautifully captured the essence of its mission:

“The evolution of human history is marked by significant breakthroughs. Skilling the human hand is one such sacred phase of human development. The human hand—with its long, dexterous fingers and opposable thumb—holds the power to create wonders.”

At the university, we were introduced to some of Assam’s most cherished Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, including Joha rice, Boka rice, Judima wine, Kaji Nemu, and Karbi Anglong ginger.

Joha Rice
Grown in Assam’s Garo Hills, Joha rice is celebrated for its sweet aroma and taste. Locally known as Mi Jaha, this rice comes in several traditional varieties such as Kola Joha, Boga Joha, Ramphal Joha, and Keteki Joha. Packed with antioxidants, Joha rice has seen rising demand internationally, especially in Vietnam.

Boka Chaul (Magic Rice)
Also known as “Magic Rice,” Boka Chaul is a wonder of simplicity—it requires only a brief soak in water before it’s ready to eat. The term Boka Chaul literally means “soft rice” in Assamese and dates back to the Ahom Dynasty.
(Is it because the Mughals never ate Boka Chaul that they couldn’t defeat the Ahoms? Well, we’ll never know!)

Judima Wine
A traditional rice wine brewed by the Dimasa tribe using steamed glutinous rice and a local herb called Thembra, Judima is sweet and distinct in flavor. Its recipe and cultural significance have been lovingly passed down through generations—a legacy preserved in every goblet.

Kaji Nemu
Declared the state fruit of Assam, the GI-certified Kaji Nemu is deeply embedded in Assamese identity. Its distinctive taste makes it a household essential—so much so that even the mildly bitter rind is often chewed. In Assam, when someone says nemu (the Assamese word for lemon), they’re almost always referring to this beloved variety.

Karbi Anglong Ginger
Known for its sharp pungency and distinct aroma, Karbi Anglong ginger enhances the flavor of everything from dishes to a strong cup of kadak chai. Granted GI-tag status in 2014, it is cultivated organically by tribal farmers in the Singhasan Hills using traditional Jhum and Tila methods.

Our next destination was Sarthebari, home to Assam’s famed bell-metal craft. Here, we had the privilege of meeting Mr. Haridas Das, recipient of the Assam Gaurav award. He offered us an exclusive look into his workshop, where he crafts stunning pieces from an alloy of copper and tin. Known locally as Kahar or Orja, these artisans produce items that are used both domestically and in religious rituals. Haridas ji’s intricate craftsmanship has earned him a well-deserved place among Assam’s most celebrated citizens, honored by the state’s civilian awards—Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav.

Driving through the scenic Kaziranga National Park, we made our way to Jorhat, where we visited CSIR-NEIST, a premier research institution overseen by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Dr. Virendra Tiwari, Director of CSIR-NEIST, introduced us to the Floriculture and Aroma Missions—ambitious projects aimed at transforming Assam’s agricultural landscape. These missions are part of a broader national vision to make Assam economically self-reliant and globally competitive.

Our journey then took us to CMER&TI, an institute dedicated to research and development in Eri and Muga silk. We explored their labs, climate adaptation projects, and innovations in sericulture—many of which are now being implemented in states like Gujarat.

Of course, no trip to Assam is complete without experiencing its legendary tea. We headed to Bahoni tea farms, where the aroma of tea hangs thick in the air. The rolling hills covered with tea bushes are a sight to behold. We learned how to identify premium tea, the nuances of plucking techniques, and delved into the world of GI-tagged Assam Orthodox Tea. The experience was both aromatic and enlightening.

Next, we journeyed to Majuli, the world’s largest river island. Flanked on three sides by the Brahmaputra and bordered on the fourth by the Subansiri River, Majuli was declared India’s first river island district in 2016. Accessible by ferry from Jorhat, the island is a vibrant hub of art and tradition.

Here, we met Padma Shri Hemchandra Goswami, who has dedicated his life to preserving the ancient art of mask-making and manuscript illustration. His globally respected work is even housed in the British Museum. We also met Jamini Payeng, who offered us a deep dive into Assamese handloom traditions—particularly the GI-tagged handloom of the Mising (originally Meri) tribe. The vibrant colors and patterns left us mesmerized.

Assam, the first state in our Exploring India series, exceeded all expectations. Every sense was engaged—from the rich tastes and textures to the visual splendor and heartfelt stories. It’s no wonder that the tagline of Assam Tourism is Awesome Assam—because it truly is awesome.

Join us as we continue this journey across India, unearthing the hidden treasures that make our country so incredibly diverse and beautiful.

This episode begins with a deep dive into Assam’s culinary and agricultural heritage. From the nutty and soft texture of Boka Chaul (soft rice) to the tangy punch of Kaji Nemu (Assamese lemon), the region’s palette is as diverse as its people. We also explore Judima Wine, a traditional rice wine from the Dimasa tribe, Joha Rice, known for its fragrant aroma, and even Black Rice of neighboring Manipur, a powerhouse of nutrition. These GI-tagged items are not just ingredients; they are cultural symbols, reflecting centuries of farming innovation and culinary evolution.

To better understand these marvels, Suhani sits down with professors from Assam Skill University, who shed light on the science, sustainability, and socio-economic importance of these products. Their insights help bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern agricultural practices, underscoring why these regional specialties deserve global recognition.

From taste to texture to technique — the journey then takes us to Sarthebari, a village renowned for its ancient Bell Metal Craft. Here, we enter the workshop of Mr. Haridas Das, a recipient of the prestigious Assam Gaurav Award, who opens up about the struggles and survival of this age-old art. Watching the molten metal take shape into traditional utensils and decor is nothing short of mesmerizing — a living heritage in action.

The adventure continues as Suhani and the crew travel through the breathtaking Kaziranga wilderness, home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros, soaking in the tranquil beauty of Assam’s vast grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests.

In Jorhat, the scientific and economic heartbeat of the region, the team visits CSIR-NEIST (North East Institute of Science and Technology). Led by Dr. Virendra Tiwari, the institute is playing a key role in the Floriculture and Aroma Missions, both initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These missions are not just about flowers and fragrances — they are about economic empowerment, self-reliance, and positioning Assam on the global map of scientific agriculture and innovation.

This episode is more than just a travelogue — it’s a celebration of Assam’s hidden potential, the synergy of tradition and technology, and the government’s focused push through CSIR and the Ministry of DoNER to uplift Northeast India.

What began as angry protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act soon turned into coordinated anti-Hindu violence, with disturbing new tactics: poisoned drinking water, homes torched with women and children inside, and crude bombs hurled by frenzied mobs. Survivors, intelligence inputs, and independent observers now point toward pre-planned ethnic targeting — not spontaneous rage.

The Murder That Sparked a Storm

The spiral into terror was cemented by a gruesome killing — the brutal murder of 55-year-old Harigobindo Das and his son Chandan Das, both respected Hindu businessmen in the Beldanga area.

Eyewitnesses allege that a mob, inflamed by radical slogans, dragged the duo out during a “peaceful protest” and hacked them to death. According to reports, the prime accused is linked to Islamist groups operating under the guise of anti-Waqf law protests.
India Today has cited intelligence officials connecting this network to Bangladesh-based Islamist outfits, raising alarms about the porous border and radicalisation in Bengal’s border districts.

Bombs in Broad Daylight

As tension spread, crude bombs were hurled at police vehicles and Hindu homes. One victim told us about bombs being spotted often nowadays, which are often used in Bengal’s political violence. One police constable, on condition of anonymity, said:

“There were 3 bombs in the field. They found it today”

The Name That Keeps Coming Up: Mehboob Alam

Once again, the name of TMC councillor Mehboob Alam has surfaced. Locals allege that Alam was not only complicit but actively instigated the second wave of violence.

“On Saturday, the attack unfolded from the councillor’s place – Mehboob Alam, TMC Councillor”

Radicalisation and Illegal Migrants: The Unspoken Threat

Reports from Organiser and News18 now confirm that illegal Bangladeshi migrants played a major role in swelling the mobs. Murshidabad, which has a long-standing infiltration issue, has become a hotbed of radicalisation and parallel power structures that challenge Indian sovereignty.

Weapons caches were also recovered from abandoned madrasa premises — hinting at premeditated violence, not spontaneous outrage.

Women Targeted: NCW Raises Alarm

The National Commission for Women has issued a scathing report on the violence, stating that Hindu women were deliberately attacked and intimidated. Many faced threats of rape and molestation, with several families alleging that local police refused to even register complaints.

Central Forces Deployed, But For How Long?

In response to public outcry and a High Court directive, 17 companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been deployed. While this has stabilised the situation temporarily, local residents fear the violence will return once the spotlight fades.

Conclusion: The Bengal Borderline Has Been Breached

Murshidabad is not just a district in Bengal anymore — it’s a communal time bomb, one ticking at the intersection of vote-bank politics, demographic manipulation, Islamist radicalisation, and state complicity.

The Waqf Act may have sparked the fire, but what followed was an organised attempt to erase dissenting communities, rewrite territorial control, and instill fear through methods unseen in recent Indian memory.

“Watch our exclusive video report on the second phase of Murshidabad violence — including survivor interviews, site footage, and a breakdown of how the state looked away when people were marked for death.”

Surge in Orders for Pahalgam Imagery

Maxar Technologies, a leader in high-definition satellite imagery, experienced an unusual spike in orders for images of Pahalgam between June 2024 and February 2025. Orders for high-resolution images, essential for military surveillance and infrastructure monitoring, peaked in February 2025, with a final order placed just ten days before the attack. While the identities of the clients behind these orders remain unknown, the coincidence of their timing with the attack has sparked suspicions among defense analysts. Though no direct link has been established between these orders and the terrorist assault, experts have expressed concern that such detailed imagery could have been exploited to plan the attack.

Business Systems International Pvt Ltd (BSI) and Maxar’s Partnership

Adding complexity to the situation is Maxar’s partnership with Business Systems International Pvt Ltd (BSI), a Pakistani geospatial firm owned by Obaidullah Syed, a convicted Pakistani-American businessman. Syed was sentenced in 2022 for illegally exporting high-performance computing equipment to the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), a body responsible for Pakistan’s nuclear and missile programs. Despite Syed’s criminal background, BSI remained a partner with Maxar.

The partnership raised alarms due to BSI’s role in sensitive exports, and its continued involvement with Maxar after Syed’s conviction became a point of concern. Though there is no evidence that BSI placed the orders for Pahalgam imagery, the timing and the firm’s history raised questions about the adequacy of Maxar’s vetting process for its international partners. After the controversy erupted, Maxar removed BSI from its partner list, though this action came only after the media attention.

Maxar’s Response and Accountability

Maxar Technologies denied that BSI placed orders for Pahalgam imagery and emphasized that it does not share client information without permission. However, the company’s delayed response to the issue and its weak vetting process for international partners have drawn criticism. The case underscores the growing risks posed by commercial satellite imagery, which is increasingly available to anyone willing to pay for it. Without adequate checks, this powerful tool can be misused by rogue elements or adversaries to carry out hostile activities, as was allegedly the case in Pahalgam.

Risks to National Security

The Pahalgam incident highlights the security risks of relying on foreign satellite imagery providers. While such imagery is indispensable for military and surveillance operations, the availability of high-resolution images to commercial clients increases the potential for misuse. As more private space-tech companies enter the market, governments must ensure stronger regulations and safeguards surrounding the use of geospatial data, especially in sensitive regions.

India, which heavily depends on foreign space-tech companies for geospatial intelligence, must take a proactive approach to secure its data. This could involve developing self-reliant systems for satellite surveillance or pushing for international regulations on the trade of high-resolution imagery.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Surveillance Practices

The Pahalgam satellite imagery controversy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in the global surveillance landscape. While Maxar Technologies has removed BSI from its partner list, the incident raises larger questions about the commercial availability of sensitive satellite data and the need for stricter controls. Governments must tighten regulations and ensure that foreign satellite providers uphold stringent security standards to prevent misuse by hostile actors. This incident is a call to action for the international community to establish robust protocols for managing the risks associated with satellite surveillance.

In 2004, after returning from Iraq, former U.S. Army officer Ralph Peters wrote a searing op-ed in the New York Post. His words were clear: “The media weren’t reporting. They were taking sides. With our enemies. And our enemies won. Because, under media assault, we lost our will to fight on… The Marines in Fallujah weren’t beaten by the terrorists and insurgents… They were beaten by Al Jazeera. By lies.”

His point was sharp and prescient: in modern warfare, the media is not merely a chronicler of events—it is a combatant.

The Illusion of Neutrality

In times of conflict, the press often insists on a stance of neutrality. But this so-called objectivity is far removed from any true or meaningful neutrality. A headline, a ticker, a photograph—each can shape national morale or fracture it. In the age of hybrid warfare, information becomes a weapon. And those who disseminate it are combatants, whether they accept it or not.

Take, for instance, the concept of “positive auxiliary assistance” in information warfare. On social media, users—intentionally or not—spread narratives that bolster national interests. Whether these narratives are perfectly factual or not, their strategic value lies in countering adversarial propaganda and reinforcing the national psyche. In cognitive warfare, the target is not territory but the mind: shaping beliefs, manipulating emotions, and altering behavior through information.

From Kargil to Operation Sindoor: A Changed Landscape

The Kargil War in 1999 was India’s first televised war. Today, Operation Sindoor can be streamed live from mobile phones across the world. Our information consumption has grown exponentially. But so has our vulnerability.

Social media platforms operate on a fundamentally different logic from traditional media. There’s no editor, no gatekeeper. A single anonymous account can spread content just as widely as The Hindu or Republic TV. In this unfiltered, fast-moving environment, fake news is cheap—but its cost to society is staggering.

The risk is not just military. It’s political. We may win battles on the ground, but surrender our strategic advantage in the media. Speed kills, but so does misreporting.

Lessons from Rwanda, Somalia, and the Cold War

History has already warned us. In Rwanda and Somalia, civilian broadcasters incited mass violence. In the early Cold War, U.S. President Harry Truman recognized the strategic value of media and launched the Campaign of Truth, urging journalists to support the national cause in countering Soviet propaganda.

India must now internalize this lesson.

Media as a Frontline Asset

The media is no longer neutral terrain. It is an active battlefield. Morale, international perception, and the enemy’s confidence are all shaped by media output.

India’s media must act as a strategic asset—not a chaotic echo chamber. This does not mean blind cheerleading or jingoism. It means disciplined, responsible journalism with national security at its core.

• Avoid performative objectivity. Confused or contradictory reporting during wartime can inflict more damage than enemy fire.
• Headline discipline matters. So do visuals and tickers. Perception fuels warfare.
• Respect operational secrecy. Avoid real-time location leaks, troop movements, or sensitive footage that could be exploited by the enemy.
• Coordinate with defense authorities. Clarify, verify, and confirm before broadcasting battlefield updates.
• Frame the narrative. English-language and global outlets must highlight India’s legal, moral, and defensive justifications. India did not start this war. But we must finish it—militarily and narratively.
• Establish wartime editorial protocols. Decide what to publish, what to delay, and how to fact-check without compromising speed.

Win the War, Win the Narrative

Victory on the battlefield is only half the war. The other half is waged in headlines, hashtags, and reels.

Information dominance is military dominance.

India’s journalists, editors, influencers, and media houses must rise to the moment. We are at war—not just with bullets, but with words, images, and narratives. In this war, neutrality is not virtue. Strategic clarity is.

The media must not become a liability. It must be a line of defense.

On April 22, 2025, the idyllic town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir was shattered by a brutal terrorist attack. Militants affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) opened fire in a crowded market, killing 26 civilians—tourists, hotel workers, pony owners—people with dreams and families, now lost forever. The tragedy didn’t just take lives; it tore through the soul of a grieving nation.

The massacre marked a breaking point. What followed was not just a military response, but a deeply emotional reckoning—Operation Sindoor. The name “Sindoor” was carefully chosen. Rooted in the ancient Sindhu River that flows through both India and Pakistan, the word evokes a shared history, but also the deep divide created by partition. In Indian tradition, sindoor (vermilion) symbolizes sacrifice, protection, and the promise of resilience. The operation was India’s vow: never again to allow such bloodshed to go unanswered.

Day 1 – May 7: A Night of Retribution

At 1:05 AM on May 7, India launched a precise and powerful air campaign. Rafale jets, flying under the cover of darkness, crossed into Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), striking nine terror camps in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Balakot, Manshera, and Muzaffarabad. In just 25 minutes, 70 militants—including JeM commander Abdul Rauf Azhar—were eliminated.

These strikes were more than military action. They were a message to every Indian who had lost someone in Pahalgam: your pain has not been forgotten. It was a declaration that India would no longer wait for justice—it would deliver it.

Amid the tactical success, Pakistan’s economic vulnerabilities began to surface. The country’s fiscal deficit widened, and its foreign exchange reserves dipped dangerously low. A war of attrition was not something Pakistan could afford.

Day 2 – May 8: Escalation on the Ground and at Sea

On the second day, the Line of Control (LoC) ignited. Pakistani forces shelled Indian posts in Uri, Poonch, and Kargil. India responded with disciplined yet forceful counter-fire. Each shell fired carried the weight of years of hostility and the agony of fresh loss.

Simultaneously, the Indian Navy deployed the INS Vikrant near Pakistani waters in the Arabian Sea. The message was unambiguous: India was prepared to fight across every domain—land, air, and sea.

Day 3 – May 9: The Diplomacy Gap and a Ceasefire in Doubt

As global leaders scrambled to de-escalate tensions, backchannel diplomacy intensified. Countries like the United States, France, and the UAE urged restraint. India, having met its military objectives, signaled openness to a halt in operations—but not an official ceasefire. India’s stance was conditional: Pakistan had to act decisively against terror groups operating on its soil.

That same day, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under a $7 billion bailout plan. In India, this raised red flags. Could these funds, meant to stabilize a crumbling economy, be diverted to further military buildup or terrorism?

By evening, hopes of calm were dashed. Pakistan violated the informal truce by resuming artillery fire along the LoC. It became clear: though Operation Sindoor’s initial military phase had concluded, peace was still a distant dream.

The Ceasefire Question: Was It Ever Real?

Contrary to some reports, India did not formally announce a ceasefire. It had paused active military operations after Day 3, but remained on high alert. Pakistan, on the other hand, publicly acknowledged a desire for de-escalation—yet its continued shelling cast doubt on the sincerity of that intent. The ceasefire, in essence, existed more on paper and in diplomatic halls than in reality.

Conclusion: The Fire That Still Burns

Operation Sindoor was not merely about missiles and air raids—it was about memory, mourning, and justice. It reminded the world that India’s patience has limits, and its commitment to protect its citizens is absolute. But it also exposed the fragile nature of peace in the subcontinent.

For Pakistan, the economic burden grows heavier. The IMF relief is a bandage on a deeper wound—a faltering economy strained further by military ambitions and global mistrust.

And for India, while the strikes brought a measure of justice, they also reopened old wounds. The families of Pahalgam’s victims may find some solace, but true peace remains elusive. Operation Sindoor may have ended militarily, but emotionally, for many, it continues. The cost of terrorism, once again, has been counted in lives lost, dreams broken, and a nation’s resolve rekindled.

The Murder That Sparked a Storm

The violence took a deadly turn with the brutal killing of 55-year-old Harigobindo Das and his son Chandan Das. The father-son duo, both local Hindu businessmen, were reportedly hacked to death by a mob amid the chaos. The prime accused, now arrested, is said to be affiliated with groups closely linked to the anti-Waqf law protests. This gruesome act has become a chilling symbol of the ongoing unrest.

According to India Today, the attacker was directly involved in the orchestration of violent riots masquerading as peaceful protests. Intelligence officials suspect the hand of organised groups with links to Bangladesh-based Islamist organisations, exploiting communal fault lines in Bengal’s border districts.

The Plight of Parul Das: A Microcosm of Fear

One of the most haunting stories from Murshidabad is that of Parul Das, a widow who lost her entire home and livelihood in the violence. In her words, “They marked our houses. They came prepared.” Her cries for justice have echoed far beyond her village, stirring national outrage.

As The Indian Express reported, Parul’s village now stands divided by fear. Many Hindu families have either fled or are living under makeshift police protection. The sense of betrayal is deepened by the perceived inaction of the local administration, which many believe is paralysed by vote-bank compulsions and communal appeasement.

Marked for Attack: Visual Evidence Emerges

Social media videos — including a viral YouTube clip — show Hindu homes in Murshidabad marked with blue ink, eerily reminiscent of targeting tactics used during past communal pogroms. Several activists and retired intelligence officers have called it a form of “psychological warfare” aimed at intimidation and eventual displacement.

Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants: The Unspoken Threat

The role of illegal Bangladeshi migrants in the current unrest is becoming impossible to ignore. According to an Organiser report, Murshidabad, which borders Bangladesh, has long been a hub for illegal infiltration. These migrants, often radicalised and undocumented, are said to be fueling local unrest and swelling the ranks of violent mobs.

In fact, experts believe that the demographic manipulation aided by years of political protection has created a parallel power structure that now challenges the Indian state itself. As the report notes, “Mamata Banerjee’s government sleeps over it — for reasons best understood in terms of electoral calculus.”

Toolkits, Doctored Videos, and a Broader Agenda

Adding fuel to the fire, intelligence sources have flagged a troubling trend: the circulation of pre-planned protest toolkits, doctored videos, and coordinated misinformation campaigns on social media. A News18 investigation links these digital footprints to the same elements that were active during the CAA protests — some with ties to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami and external agencies in Bangladesh.

Weapons caches recovered from protest sites suggest that these were not spontaneous uprisings, but premeditated attacks disguised as civil resistance.

Women Bear the Brunt

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued a damning report, stating that the attacks were “deliberate and premeditated,” and that women from the Hindu community were specifically targeted. Several testimonies collected by the Commission point to attempted molestations, property vandalism, and threats of rape — raising serious questions about law enforcement’s inability to prevent or contain the violence.

Central Forces Stepping In

Following widespread outrage and a public interest litigation, the Calcutta High Court directed the deployment of 17 companies of central forces to stabilise the region. The Union Home Ministry, which had been monitoring the situation, acted swiftly to prevent further escalation.

While the deployment has brought temporary relief, the root causes — illegal immigration, religious radicalisation, and state apathy — remain unaddressed.

Conclusion: A Tipping Point for Bengal?

Murshidabad is no longer just a law-and-order problem — it’s a cautionary tale of what happens when national security, demographic control, and communal balance are sacrificed at the altar of vote-bank politics. As Waqf lands become a flashpoint and communities are pitted against each other, the question remains: Who will ensure justice and stability in Bengal — when the state seems unwilling or unable to act?

Will this be a wake-up call for India’s policymakers, or just another chapter in the long list of ignored warnings from Bengal’s bleeding borderlands? Watch our video about the Murshidabad Waqf riot.

As time passed, Ansari repaid the society members using money borrowed from elsewhere. Slowly, strangers started visiting his home regularly for namaz and other religious activities. During the COVID lockdown in 2020, Ansari sold his house and moved away—but the visitors didn’t stop. In fact, they increased. People kept gathering to offer prayers, even when social gatherings were legally restricted. When society members investigated, they discovered something baffling: the house had been declared Waqf property, without any notice or prior consent. The entire society was stunned. “What is Waqf, and how can a private house be suddenly claimed in the name of religion?” they asked.

What Is Waqf?

Waqf, in Islamic tradition, refers to a permanent charitable endowment—essentially a donation made in the name of Allah. Once a property is declared as Waqf, its ownership is considered to be with God and cannot be sold, gifted, or inherited. The donor is called waqif, and the caretaker is called mutawalli. It’s a form of Sadaqah-e-Jaariyah—a charity that keeps benefitting others indefinitely.

In India, the first historical record of Waqf dates back to Muhammad Ghori, who allocated land to support mosques, setting a model of mosque-land pairing that spread over time. During British rule, Waqf went through critical shifts:

• 1828: Land Resumption Act imposed taxes on Waqf lands.
• 1857: Post-revolt, taxes were removed to maintain peace.
• 1864: Kazee Act transferred legal authority from Qazis to British judges, weakening the Shariah link.
• Land Acquisition Act: Allowed British government to acquire Waqf lands, shaking Waqf’s autonomy.

How the Legal Framework Evolved

• 1923: Mussulman Wakf Act gave Waqf its first formal legal identity.
• 1954: Indian Parliament passed the Waqf Act, largely built on British-era provisions. Each sect got its own Waqf Board with full control over Waqf properties—even if the donor was non-Muslim, the funds had to be used solely for Islamic purposes.
• Most controversial provision: Waqf by user—if a property is used for Islamic purposes for a long time without owner objection, it can be automatically deemed Waqf.

This is exactly what happened in Deepak Patel’s society—a private residence used informally for religious purposes was unilaterally claimed as Waqf, with no notice to the actual owners or the society.

A System Ripe for Misuse

Over the years, Waqf Boards have been marred by countless scandals:

• In Bangalore, the ex-CEO of the Waqf Board was accused of embezzling 4 crore rupees.
• In Saharanpur, revenue from 183 bigha of land is missing.
• In Delhi, the AAP government faced allegations of helping misuse Waqf property worth over 100 crore rupees.
• Pune’s 7.7 crore rupees scam led to ED arrests.
• In Assam, Waqf land was sold illegally for profit, with no board action taken.

Even religious minorities like Christians in Kerala have faced arbitrary Waqf claims. In Munambam, over 600 families were shocked when Waqf claimed their land. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has publicly supported the recent Waqf reforms, indicating the extent of cross-community concern.

Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: What’s New?

The newly passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 marks a turning point. After multiple failed attempts and cosmetic amendments, this bill introduces serious reforms:

1. Transparency and Digitisation: Mandatory online registration of all Waqf properties.
2. Inclusivity: Reserved seats for women and non-Muslims on Waqf Boards.
3. Judicial Oversight: Earlier, Waqf Tribunal decisions were “final”; now, they can be challenged in court.
4. Preventing Illegal Encroachments: Stronger legal provisions to stop property grab in the name of Waqf.
5. Focus on Marginalized Muslims: Special measures to ensure that benefits reach backward and poor sections within the Muslim community.

Why It Matters

India’s Waqf estates are worth over 1.2 lakh crore rupees—but they generate just ₹163 crore in revenue. With proper management, this figure could touch 12,000 crore rupees annually, significantly uplifting underprivileged Muslims. Instead, the system remained plagued by fraud, mismanagement, and religious misuse.

Unlike secular trusts and temples—whose finances are often under state control—Waqf has operated with unchecked powers. This asymmetry has long raised questions of fairness and accountability.

Conclusion

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 doesn’t just tweak the law—it rebalances it. It’s an attempt to restore public trust, ensure fair treatment of all religious communities, and protect individuals like Deepak Patel from waking up to find their homes no longer belong to them. Whether this bill truly reforms the Waqf structure or becomes another missed opportunity depends on one thing: implementation.

Variation in the use of antibiotics also existed by geographical area. The rate was 33% of patients with COVID-19 treated with antibiotics in the Western Pacific Region, 83% in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions. Remarkably, the pattern of use was decreasing in Europe and the Americas between 2020 and 2022, but it grew in Africa.

The WHO employs the AWaRe classification system—Access, Watch, and Reserve—to encourage appropriate use of antibiotics. Access antibiotics are used as first-line therapies for uncomplicated infections, Watch antibiotics have a higher risk of resistance and need to be prescribed with caution, and Reserve antibiotics are last options for severe drug-resistant infections. The study came as a concern when it was found that ‘Watch’ antibiotics—those that have a higher likelihood of promoting resistance—were most commonly prescribed during the pandemic.

Although antibiotics may be life-saving when properly prescribed, their improper use subjects the patient to unneeded side effects and promotes resistant pathogen development. After surviving COVID-19, especially among immunocompromised patients, secondary infections including bacterial pneumonia, sinusitis, and otitis media were reportedly increased. Amoxicillin is generally used for these as the first- line antibiotic.

A study titled ‘The Trend of Antibiotic Consumption After the COVID-19 Pandemic: Approach to Future Outbreaks’ examined changes in antibiotic consumption patterns. It reported a spike in antibiotic use at the onset of the pandemic in 2020 compared to 2019, driven by early fears of fatal secondary bacterial infections. Antibiotic consumption was most prevalent in the early wave of the pandemic and was strongly associated with hospital and ICU admission, particularly with broad- spectrum antibiotics. Evidence also indicated that antibiotic consumption was greater in lower- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries.

In the United States, between January 2018 and December 2022, data from 120 hospitals indicated a rise in AMR mainly because of hospital-acquired infection rates in the pandemic period. An ICMR report in India also reported that out of 17,534 COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals (June–August 2020), nearly half of all those with secondary infections had multidrug-resistant organisms. India saw increased self-medication with antibiotics as well during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-medication of antibiotics in India was also aided by fear, misinformation, and the ready availability of over-the-counter medicines. As an example, in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, 18% of patients claimed to have consumed antibiotics without consulting a doctor, with amoxicillin being widely used.

Physicians have pointed to the psychological and systemic factors driving such
trends. In an interview with India Today, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Delhi’s BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital Dr. Vivek Pal Singh said: “Commoners have fears, and to satisfy their psychology they pops a pill. Most doctors, I won’t say all but most doctors satisfy their patients’ fears with antibiotics. It is almost like giving them a placebo. For example, if you go to a physician and say you have a cough, rather than seeing what is causing a cough they give an antibiotic. Sometimes, I am shocked by the strength of antibiotics given by doctors inside and outside hospital settings.”

A senior resident physician at SMHS Hospital shared similar apprehensions while talking to The Kashmir Monitor said,”There is so much fear of the virus among the people that they end up taking antibiotics even for a common cold. If only they knew the extent of damage it causes rather than healing.” Azithromycin, Ofloxacin, Levofloxacin, and Amoxicillin are available over the counter and people pop them up like candies. The doctor added,“ Some of these medications like Levofloxacin delay the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Ofloxacin and Amoxicillin cause diarrhea commonly, for which the patients again take further antibiotics.” The study in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (IJPSR)reported that even medical professionals—in spite of an awareness of dangers—practiced self-medication. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provided clear directions against the usage of antibiotics such as amoxicillin for treatment of COVID-19 unless proven bacterial infection existed. Yet studies such as from Jodhpur indicated community pharmacies still distributing antibiotics without a prescription, exacerbating the situation.

Sources:

1. MDPI
2. PubMed
3. The Kashmir Monitor
4. WHO
5. International Journal of Pharmacies, Science, and Research
6. India Today
7. Times of India
8. University of Minnesota- CIDRAP
9. MDPI
10. National Library of Medicine

1. “Don’t Phunk with My Heart” – Black Eyed Peas (2005)

Copied from: “Ae Naujawan Hai Sab Kuchh Yahan” by Asha Bhosle and Mohammad Rafi
 Film: Apradh (1972)
 Music Composer: Shankar–Jaikishan

The playful beat and looping hook come almost directly from this retro classic.

2.“On the Floor” by Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull (2011)

Copied from: Sochna Kya Jo Bhi Hoga Dekha Jayega” by Kumar Sanu and Asha Bhosle
Film: Ghayal (1990)
Music Composer: Bappi Lahiri

J.Lo’s global hit samples Lambada, which itself was heavily influenced by Lahiri’s
Bollywood composition.

3. “Toxic” – Britney Spears (2003)

Copied from: “Tere Mere Beech Mein” by Lata Mangeshkar & S.P. Balasubrahmanyam
Film: Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981)
Music Composer: Laxmikant–Pyarelal

The string section and melodic progression of “Toxic” bear a striking resemblance to the
opening bars of “Tere Mere Beech Mein”.

4. “Whoopty” – CJ (2020)

Copied from: “Sanam Re” by Arijit Singh
Film: Sanam Re (2015)
Music Composer: Mithoon

That moody violin loop looping in “Whoopty” is lifted straight from the original’s haunting
score.

5. “The Bounce” – Jay-Z (2002)

Copied from: “Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai” by Alka Yagnik & Ila Arun
Film: Khalnayak (1993)
Music Composer: Laxmikant–Pyarelal

6.“Sexy Bitch” – David Guetta ft. Akon (2009)

Copied from: “Rangeela Re” by Asha Bhosle
Film: Rangeela (1995)
Music Composer: A. R. Rahman

7. “It’s My Birthday” – Will.i.am (2011)

Copied from: “Urvashi” by A. R. Rahman
Film: Humse Hai Muqabala (1994)
Music Composer: A. R. Rahman

Rahman’s original is sampled directly and credited—but only a few listeners know the
Bollywood roots.

8. “Jimmy” – M.I.A. (2007)

Copied from: “Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy Aaja” by Parvati Khan
Film: Disco Dancer (1982)
Music Composer: Bappi Lahiri

M.I.A. samples the disco anthem almost bar-for-bar, but gives it an electro-pop

9. “Choose Your Side” – La Coka Nostra ft. Bun B (2009)

Copied from: “Mujhe Maar Daalo” by Asha Bhosle
Film: Geeta Mera Naam (1974)
Music Composer: Laxmikant–Pyarelal

A haunting Bollywood melody backs dark, violent lyrics—creating a jarring but powerful
contrast. One of the grittiest uses of a sweet Asha Bhosle track in hip-hop.

10. “What’s Happenin’” – Method Man ft. Busta Rhymes (2004)

Copied from: “Dum Maro Dum” by Asha Bhosle
Film: Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971)
Music composer: R.D. Burman

DJ Scratch flips this trippy RD Burman classic to sound like a gritty East Coast banger.