Behind the Sambhal violence, Australia's social media ban, and RaGa on Adani
Nov 28, 2024
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Legal expert Apurva Vishwanath sheds light on the Sambhal mosque controversy, tackling the intricate legal battles surrounding sacred sites. Contributor Anonna Dutt discusses Australia's drastic proposal to ban social media for minors, citing alarming statistics about youth mental health. With concerns over its harmful effects highlighted, the conversation shifts to the Adani controversy, where accusations of bribery reignite tensions in the Indian parliament, revealing ongoing political dynamics.
The Sambhal mosque violence highlights the complex interplay between law, religion, and politics in ongoing disputes over sacred sites in India.
Australia's proposed social media ban for children under 16 reflects growing concerns about the detrimental effects of social media on young, developing minds.
Deep dives
Sambhal Controversy and Clashes
A team entered the Jama Masjid mosque in Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh, to conduct a court-mandated survey, which escalated into violent clashes resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a teenager. This incident was triggered by a legal petition filed by lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, asserting that the mosque occupied a site originally belonging to a Hindu temple. The swift legal proceedings surrounding the survey have raised concerns, as they appeared to happen at an unprecedented pace, with the court ordering the survey to be conducted shortly after the petition was filed. The conflict surrounding the mosque is emblematic of ongoing disputes regarding religious sites in India, highlighting the tense intersection of law, religion, and politics.
Australia's Proposed Social Media Ban for Children
Australia's House of Representatives has passed a bill proposing a ban on social media usage for children under 16, targeted at platforms like TikTok and Facebook. This legislation aims to address rising concerns regarding problematic social media behaviors among children, characterized by excessive screen time and withdrawal symptoms when access is denied. Experts suggest that children's still-developing brains may make them particularly vulnerable to the influence of social media, prompting the call for regulatory measures. If enacted, the law would require social media platforms to implement age verification mechanisms, although challenges remain regarding user compliance and verification effectiveness.
Political Fallout from Adani Allegations
The ongoing Adani controversy has prompted significant political upheaval, with opposition members in Parliament demanding discussions on bribery allegations against the Adani group. These accusations involve over $250 million in bribes allegedly paid to Indian officials, leading to calls for accountability from opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi. The Congress party has accused the government of shielding the Adani group from scrutiny and has called for a thorough investigation by relevant agencies. This situation reflects the growing tension within Indian politics regarding power dynamics, corporate influence, and the demand for transparency.
First, The Indian Express’ National Legal Editor Apurva Vishwanath discusses the controversy surrounding the Sambhal mosque and the concerns it raises.
Next, in light of Australia proposing to ban social media for children and young adults, The Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt tells us about the technology’s harmful effects and what studies have revealed about it (09:00).
Finally, we provide an update on the Adani controversy and the Congress' latest statement regarding the matter (17:42).
Hosted by Shashank Bhargava Written and produced by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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