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The Army is once again playing with fire in Pakistan

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The Army is once again playing with fire in Pakistan

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Army’s role in first defying government orders to restore normalcy and then brokering peace with the protestors is a disturbing development in Pakistan

~By Seema Guha

A little known Islamic group, Tehreek-e-LibaikYa Rasool Allah Pakistan (TLYR) had virtually brought the government of Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to its knees. By bowing to their demand for the sacking of the federal justice minister Zahid Hamid, the government finally succeeded in getting protesters out of the streets.

The angry mobs had virtually paralysed the authorities and brought life in the cities and towns of Pakistan to a halt.

The Abbasi administration had got some breathing space for the moment, but the take away from the crisis is a damning indictment of the current situation in Pakistan, where a hand full determined fanatics can plunge the nation into a monumental crisis.

It is a well known fact that the Army calls the shots in Pakistan, mainly on foreign affairs and particularly on relations with India, US and Afghanistan. It usually plays a more subtle role in internal politics, but this time round the gloves were off.

Army chief Qamar Jawed Bajwa openly flouted government orders and instead of putting its forces on the ground to clear the streets off protesters, as ordered by the executive, the Army played peace maker. The Army chief met Prime Minister Abbasi and lectured the government to handle the agitation peacefully. The Army then got into action and got the government and the Islamic group to negotiate.

In the end the protesters had their way and Zahid Ahmed had to step down.

The negotiations are said to have continued all Sunday night and into the wee hours of Monday morning. The government was represented by Interior minister Ahsan Iqbal. It is only in the fitness of things, that when the leader of the Tehreek-e-Libaik announced lifting the sit-in protests, he thanked the Army chief for diffusing the crisis.

What is more, in the agreement that was signed by Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the chief of  Tehreek-e-Libaik, the Interior Secretary Arshad Mirza, and Major General, Faiz Hameed who facilitated the negotiations , there is reference to the Army chief. “We are thankful to him (General Bajwa) for saving the nation from a big catastrophe,” the document said. The Army chief and General Hamid are both guarantors to the agreement.

The Army’s support of the fundamentalist group is not surprising considering these outfits have often been used by the military ever since military dictator General Zia ul-Haq decided it was in his best interests to play the religious card.

The Islamasition of the Pakistan army began during General Zia’s time. Since then, whenever it suited the generals, they played footsie with religious leaders.

Yet ever since the brutal slaughter of school children in an army school in Peshawar, the Army had cracked down on the Pakistani Taliban and other extremist groups. Yet at a time, when the PML (N) is at its weakest, with Nawaz Sharif debarred from politics and facing trial for corruption and a weak man in the country’s top executive office, the Army’s support for the Tehreek-e-Libaik is somewhat surprising.

This group of fundamentalists grew out of the protest movement against the hanging of Mumtaz Qadri, the security guard who gunned down Punjab Governor Salman Taseer in 2011, for standing up for a Christian woman facing death under the country’s tough blasphemy laws. When Qadri was hanged, a cult grew around what supporters described as his “martyrdom.’’ The group hopes to take part in national elections and promises to rule Pakistan by shariah law, if voted to power.

The current agitation by this fringe outfit is also seeped in Sunni orthodoxy. The law minister has become the target for a slight change to an oath – the finality of Prophethood – that lawmakers in Pakistan must take to run for office. The oath declares that the spiritual leader of the Ahmadi movement, a Muslim minority group, is a false prophet. The change to the oath, was slight : “I believe” from the original “I solemnly declare.” The wording was quickly changed to “I solemnly declare” but the religious group led by Khadim Hussain Rizvi bayed for the minister’s head.

The Army may be supporting the group but liberal Pakistani’s are angry at this craven submission by the PML government and the Army’s role in this sorry affair. In fact, Justice Shaukat Aziz of the Islamabad High Court did not mince words, when he questioned the government on its inept handling of the recent protests. “Is Gen Qamar Jawed Bajwa above the law and constitution?” he questioned. “It appears as though the Army was actively involved with the sit-in,” he stated.

“How long can we allow this to happen with the government?” Justice Aziz had asked.

“Army officials interested in politics are welcome to resign from the Army and join politics,” the Islamabad High Court had added while commenting that the “Government has been made into a joke of sorts.”

The Army cannot be reined in by the Court. The Army will continue to do what it pleases. But this action of playing to the extremist Islamic sentiments can come back to haunt it in future.

The Pakistan Army chief is on a visit to Saudi Arabia. Here he may find that Riyadh is also changing its stand on several key issues, including religious bigotry.

The new power centre in Riyadh, the 32-year old Crown Prince, is working towards making Saudi Arabia a moderate Islamic state. The religious police that created havoc on the streets are no longer in evidence in cities and towns. The Saudis who have long supported the austere Wahabi ideology is trying to move away from it. Why is the Pakistan Army now embracing the fundamentalists? The Pakistan Army is playing with fire.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Karnataka’s Republic Day tableau depicts artistic temples of Lakkundi

Beyond its religious significance, Lakkundi’s historical importance cannot be overstated. Once a flourishing commercial hub between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, the city flourished under the rule of various dynasties, with the Chalukyas leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape.

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Karnataka’s 76th Republic Day tableau paid a vibrant tribute to Lakkundi, a historical city nestled in Gadag district, approximately 70 km from Hubballi. Acclaimed as the “Cradle of Stone Craft,” Lakkundi’s architectural splendour took centre stage in the parade along Kartavya Path.

The tableau’s design masterfully captured the essence of Lakkundi’s rich heritage. The forefront showcased the majestic Brahma statue from the Brahma Jinalaya temple, the oldest Jain shrine in the city, dedicated to Lord Mahaveera. Its intricate details and imposing presence immediately drew the viewer’s attention, setting the tone for the tableau’s narrative.

Following the Brahma statue was a depiction of the open-pillared mantapa of the Brahma Jinalaya temple, a testament to the sophisticated architectural techniques employed during the era. The open structure, with its elegant pillars and intricate carvings, added another layer of visual appeal to the tableau’s composition.

The tableau’s main section provided a breathtaking glimpse into the grandeur of Lakkundi’s most prominent temples. The Kashi Vishweshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stood as a symbol of architectural mastery. Its ornate carvings and imposing structure were vividly represented, highlighting the city’s rich religious and cultural tapestry. Completing the ensemble was the Nanneshwara temple, another significant Shiva temple in Lakkundi, further emphasizing the city’s devotion to Lord Shiva.

The temples of Lakkundi are not merely structures of stone; they are living testaments to the syncretic nature of Karnataka’s culture. They reflect a harmonious blend of different faiths and traditions, showcasing the state’s long-held reputation for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Karnataka, known as the “SarvaJanangadaShaanthiya Thota” or “garden of peace,” embraces diversity, and Lakkundi’s temples embody this spirit.

Beyond its religious significance, Lakkundi’s historical importance cannot be overstated. Once a flourishing commercial hub between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, the city flourished under the rule of various dynasties, with the Chalukyas leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape.

The city’s legacy extends beyond its temples; its numerous step wells and inscriptions serve as invaluable historical records. With over 50 temples, most dedicated to Lord Shiva, 101 stepwells, and 29 inscriptions, Lakkundi presents a captivating journey through time, an unparalleled treasure trove for history and architecture enthusiasts. The tableau served as a powerful reminder of Lakkundi’s enduring legacy, highlighting the artistic prowess and cultural richness of the Kalyani Chalukyas.

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K M Cherian, eminent Indian cardiac surgeon, passes away

He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in London, an Honorary Member of the Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 1991.

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Dr. K.M. Cherian, a towering figure in Indian medical history and a renowned cardiac surgeon, passed away on Saturday night in Bengaluru at the age of 82. His sudden death cast a pall over the nation, leaving a void in the field of cardiology and beyond. He had travelled to Bengaluru to attend a wedding when he unexpectedly collapsed.

His daughter, Sandhya Cherian, confirmed the tragic news, stating that he was rushed to Manipal Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead at 11:55 pm. The medical community mourns the loss of a true giant, a pioneer whose contributions reshaped the landscape of cardiac surgery in India.

Dr. Cherian’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive list of accomplishments. His pioneering spirit led him to achieve what was once considered impossible in India. In 1975, he etched his name into the annals of medical history by becoming the first surgeon in the country to successfully perform a coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG).

This groundbreaking achievement marked a turning point, paving the way for countless life-saving procedures and advancements in the field. His expertise and dedication earned him international acclaim, transcending geographical boundaries and establishing him as a leading authority in cardiac surgery.

His profound impact on the medical landscape is further exemplified by his instrumental role in the establishment and growth of the Madras Medical Mission (MMM) in Chennai. As Founder, Vice President, and Director of this leading healthcare institution, Dr. Cherian spearheaded its development into a centre of excellence for cardiac care. His vision and leadership nurtured a culture of innovation and excellence, shaping generations of medical professionals and leaving an indelible mark on the institution.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Cherian was recognised for his exceptional qualities and numerous accolades. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in London, an Honorary Member of the Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 1991. These honours reflected not only his exceptional surgical skills but also his unwavering commitment to medical excellence and ethical practice.

Even in his final days, Dr. Cherian’s dedication to his profession and his unwavering belief in the importance of compassionate patient care shone through. Just a day before his passing, he participated in the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode, where he shared his insights and experiences, emphasizing the crucial role of empathy in the doctor-patient relationship.

His words resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring his dedication to ethical medical practice and leaving a lasting impression. The nation mourns the loss of a remarkable individual, a medical visionary whose contributions continue to shape the future of cardiac care in India. His memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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Padma Awards 2025: Full list of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri awardees

The awards recognize outstanding achievements across all fields, with a focus on public service. The recipients are selected by a committee appointed by the Prime Minister.

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The central government announced the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards on Saturday. These awards, conferred annually on the eve of Republic Day, represent India’s highest civilian honours. They are presented in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a higher order), and Padma Shri (for distinguished service).

The awards recognize outstanding achievements across all fields, with a focus on public service. The recipients are selected by a committee appointed by the Prime Minister.

This year, a total of 199 awards were presented: 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri. The President of India bestows these awards at a formal ceremony in Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically held in March or April.

List of Padma Award Winners 2024:

Padma Vibhushan:

  • Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy
  • Justice (Retd.) Jagdish Singh Khehar
  • Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia
  • Lakshminarayana Subramaniam
  • MT Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous)
  • Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous)
  • Sharda Sinha (Posthumous)

Padma Bhushan:

  • A Surya Prakash
  • Anant Nag
  • Bibek Debroy (Posthumous)
  • Jatin Goswami
  • Jose Chacko Periappuram
  • Kailash Nath Dikshit
  • Manohar Joshi (Posthumous)
  • Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti
  • Nandamuri Balakrishna
  • PR Sreejesh
  • Pankaj Patel
  • Pankaj Udhas (Posthumous)
  • Rambahadur Rai
  • Sadhvi Ritambhara
  • S Ajith Kumar
  • Shekhar Kapur
  • Shobana Chandrakumar
  • Sushil Kumar Modi (Posthumous)
  • Vinod Dham

Padma Shri:

  • Advaita Charan Gadanayak
  • Achyut Ramchandra Palav
  • Ajay V Bhatt
  • Anil Kumar Boro
  • Arijit Singh
  • Arundhati Bhattacharya
  • Arunoday Saha
  • Arvind Sharma
  • Ashok Kumar Mahapatra
  • Ashok Laxman Saraf
  • Ashutosh Sharma
  • Ashwini Bhide Deshpande
  • Baijnath Maharaj
  • Barry Godfray John
  • Begam Batool
  • Bharat Gupt
  • Bheru Singh Chouhan
  • Bhim Singh Bhavesh
  • Bhimawa Doddabalappa Shiilekyathara
  • Budhendra Kumar Jain
  • C S Vaidyanathan
  • Chaitram Deochand Pawar
  • Chandrakant Sheth (Posthumous)
  • Chandrakant Sompura
  • Chetan E Chitnis
  • David R Syiemlieh
  • Durga Charan Ranbir
  • Farooq Ahmad Mir
  • Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid
  • Gita Upadhyay
  • Gokul Chandra Das
  • Guruvayur Dorai
  • Harchandan Singh Bhatty
  • Hariman Sharma
  • Harjinder Singh Srinagar Wale
  • Harvinder Singh
  • Hassan Raghu
  • Hemant Kumar
  • Hriday Narayan Dixit
  • Hugh and Colleen Gantzer (Posthumous)
  • Inivalappil Mani Vijayan
  • Jagadish Joshila
  • Jaspinder Narula
  • Jonas Masetti
  • Joynacharan Bathari
  • Jumde Yomgam Gamlin
  • K. Damodaran
  • K L Krishna
  • K Omanakutty Amma
  • Kishore Kunal (Posthumous)
  • L Hangthing
  • Lakshmipathy Ramasubbaiyer
  • Lalit Kumar Mangotra
  • Lama Lobzang (Posthumous)
  • Libia Lobo Sardesai
  • M D Srinivas
  • Madugula Nagaphani Sarma
  • Mahabir Nayak
  • Mamata Shankar
  • Manda Krishna Madiga
  • Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli
  • Miriyala Apparao (Posthumous)
  • Nagendra Nath Roy
  • Narayan (Bhulai Bhai) (Posthumous)
  • Naren Gurung
  • Neerja Bhatla
  • Nirmala Devi
  • Nitin Nohria
  • Onkar Singh Pahwa
  • P Datchanamoorthy
  • Pandi Ram Mandavi
  • Parmar Lavjibhai Nagjibhai
  • Pawan Goenka
  • Prashanth Prakash
  • Pratibha Satpathy
  • Purisai Kannappa Sambandan
  • R Ashwin
  • R G Chandramogan
  • Radha Bahin Bhatt
  • Radhakrishnan Devasenapathy
  • Ramdarash Mishra
  • Ranendra Bhanu Majumdar
  • Ratan Kumar Parimoo
  • Reba Kanta Mahanta
  • Renthlei Lalrawna
  • Ricky Gyan Kej
  • Sajjan Bhajanka
  • Sally Holkar
  • Sant Ram Deswal
  • Satyapal Singh
  • Seeni Viswanathan
  • Sethuraman Panchanathan
  • Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
  • Sheen Kaaf Nizam (Shiv Kishan Bissa)
  • Shyam Bihari Agrawal
  • Soniya Nityanand
  • Stephen Knapp
  • Subhash Khetulal Sharma
  • Suresh Harilal Soni
  • Surinder Kumar Vasal
  • Swami Pradiptananda (Kartik Maharaj)
  • Syed Ainu Hasan
  • Tejendra Narayan Majumdar
  • Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi
  • Tushar Durgeshbhai Shukla
  • Vadiraj Raghavendracharya Panchamukhi
  • Vasudeo Kamath
  • Velu Assaan
  • Venkappa Ambaji Sugatekar
  • Vijay Nityanand Surishwar Ji Maharaj
  • Vijayalakshmi Deshamane
  • Vilas Dangre
  • Vinayak Lohani

Note that “(Posthumous)” indicates the award was given posthumously.

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