Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to convey his wishes, stating, “Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May this festival enhance the spirit of hope, harmony and kindness in our society. May there be joy and success in all your endeavours. Eid Mubarak!”

President Draupadi Murmu, in a special message, posted her greetings in Urdu, acknowledging the festival’s deep-rooted values of charity, kindness, and brotherhood. She stated, “On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all fellow citizens, especially my Muslim brothers and sisters. This festival strengthens the spirit of brotherhood and conveys the message of empathy, goodwill, and charity. I pray that this festival brings peace, prosperity, and happiness to everyone’s life and nurtures the spirit of righteousness in all hearts.”

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing peace and brotherhood. He tweeted, “Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May this festival bring happiness, peace and prosperity to all. Hope this day further strengthens the bonds of harmony and brotherhood all across society. Eid Mubarak!”

India’s Foreign Minister Dr. Subramaniam Jaishankar also extended his wishes, writing, “Warm greetings on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. May the festival further the spirit of peace, harmony and compassion. #EidMubarak”.

Eid-ul-Fitr, celebrated by millions across India, is a time of togetherness, generosity, and prayers for peace and prosperity. The warm wishes from the country’s leadership resonated with the spirit of the festival, reaffirming India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.

Zahack Tanvir’s viral rebuttal highlights how crucial it is to separate political rhetoric from reality.

A recent debate on X (formerly Twitter) has once again brought the discourse surrounding Indian Muslims into the spotlight. It all started when The Wire journalist Ravi Nair tweeted: “RSS and BJP hate only Indian Muslims :)” alongside a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Peace Activist Zahack Tanvir, Director of the Milli Chronicle, countered this claim, asserting: “No, they don’t hate Indian Muslims. We won’t let you use us as cannon fodder for your political reasons. ‘Indian Muslims under threat’ is a divisive narrative that’s been running since 1947 to incite victimhood among Muslims. Today, Pak cyberspace is infamous for such narratives. Unfortunately, the same is mirrored in India. Indian Muslims are the second largest majority after Hindus in India, and the Indian government does its best to engage and empower them.”

His response quickly gained traction, drawing support from intellectuals, professionals, and social media influencers who echoed his sentiments about Indian Muslims’ progress.

Voices That Joined the Conversation

Sharmistha Sharma, a Kashmiri genocide survivor, remarked, “Glad to have spoken my mind. Indian Muslims are the second-largest majority in India, which narrative paddlers just don’t want to acknowledge.”

Vedvarat Shikarpur, a Times Square-featured writer, stressed the importance of recognizing the propaganda that fuels division, stating, “I hope every Indian Muslim understands this and doesn’t fall for the narrative propagated by Muftis, Owaisis, Zakir Naiks, Afras, and the like. They benefit by instigating Hindu Vs Muslim and diverting youth from development.”

Entrepreneur and start-up consultant Saahil weighed in, “Spot on! The ‘Indian Muslims under threat’ trope is a political tool to keep the victimhood industry alive. India has the second-largest Muslim population in the world, with equal rights, scholarships, and representation in every field. The President, Vice President, Chief Justices, Governors, and Bollywood superstars—hardly signs of ‘oppression.’ Time to ditch the propaganda!”

A verified X-user known as Daily Updates added, “I appreciate your perspective. It’s important to acknowledge that Indian Muslims are indeed a significant part of the country, and efforts for inclusion are crucial for unity.”

Other users supported Tanvir’s stance, including:

Vinod Kumar, veteran Squadron Leader wrote, “This guy is a The Wire fraud journalist and also a communist scumbag. Don’t waste your energy.”

Parikshit Dhume, President of BJP Intellectual Cell, Konkan Division, added, “Commie Ravi doesn’t know where to hide after being shredded to pieces. His old Hindu-Muslim divide tactic has fed the likes of Ravi and his ecosystem, but people have seen through it. The marginalized Muslim has benefited from the Modi regime.”

Vivek Agarwal wrote, “Under the BJP government in the state for 25 years and at the center for 11 years, I see more Muslim enrollments in government schemes, hospitals, gardens, public places, and shopping malls. Everywhere you find people wearing topis and burqas.”

Purvi Dalal remarked, “We need more voices like yours supporting Modiji. It will help take down Leftists, Communists, and divisive politicians.”

Bhavini Makwana, a Certified Ziglar Trainer, added, “You are absolutely right! No Indian hates Muslims. Muslims also know they are safer in India than in any other country. The real issue is radicals who follow violent ideologies!”

Shruti wrote, “India has the third-largest Muslim population in the world, making up 11% of the global Muslim community. If the ruling party and its allies hated Muslims, would this be possible?”

The Reality of Indian Muslim Progress

While political debates continue online, real-world data presents a different picture. Indian Muslims have made significant strides in various fields:

Education: Muslim literacy rates have been rising, with increasing enrollments in universities and technical education. Multiple government scholarships cater specifically to Muslim students.

Economic Growth: A growing number of Muslim entrepreneurs are thriving in industries like IT, textiles, and small-scale businesses. Government initiatives such as Mudra Yojana have provided them with financial backing.

Political Representation: Indian Muslims have occupied top positions in the country, including Presidents (Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Dr. Zakir Husain, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed), Vice Presidents, Chief Justices, Governors, and ministers.

Entertainment and Media: Bollywood icons like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan continue to be some of the most influential figures in Indian cinema.

Cultural and Social Inclusion: Muslims have excelled in sports, literature, academia, and other domains, challenging narratives of marginalization.

While narratives of discrimination against Indian Muslims often dominate certain political and media spaces, the facts tell a different story. Zahack Tanvir’s viral rebuttal highlights how crucial it is to separate political rhetoric from reality. As India progresses, unity, economic development, and social inclusion must take precedence over divisive narratives that serve only political agendas.

USAID has been accused of funding organizations and individuals that are vocal critics of Modi’s administration, furthering an agenda that weakens India’s independent policy-making.

In a bombshell revelation, reports have surfaced suggesting that USAID, the United States Agency for International Development, has been more than just a development agency in India—it has allegedly been working to undermine Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. Operating under the shadowy influence of the Deep State, USAID is accused of pushing a left-leaning agenda, funding Modi’s critics, and subtly shaping public sentiment to serve American geopolitical interests.

USAID’s Heavy-Handed Political Interference

BJP politician Savio Rodrigues has blown the whistle on what he describes as blatant political interference. Speaking to Sputnik India, Rodrigues revealed how USAID’s initiatives, supposedly aimed at increasing voter participation, were actually an attempt to influence Indian elections.

“DOGE’s findings expose USAID’s attempt to influence Indian voters by masquerading as an initiative to boost voter turnout,” Rodrigues stated. The implication is alarming—foreign agencies meddling in India’s democratic process under the convenient guise of development assistance.

Deep State’s Left-Wing Agenda in India

The term “Deep State” refers to an intricate network of bureaucrats, intelligence officers, and corporate lobbyists who manipulate global events to align with their ideological and economic objectives. India, under Modi’s leadership, has proven to be a thorn in their plans.

With a government that champions nationalism and self-reliance, India is seen as a disruption to the traditional Western grip on global politics. USAID, allegedly influenced by these hidden power structures, has been accused of funding organizations and individuals that are vocal critics of Modi’s administration, furthering an agenda that weakens India’s independent policy-making.

For decades, the U.S. has used foreign aid agencies to exert influence over developing nations, and India is no exception. What appears to be assistance often comes with strings attached—ensuring that opposition voices are emboldened and narratives against nationalist leaders like Modi gain traction in both domestic and international forums.

India: The Deep State’s Political and Economic Laboratory

With its vast population and growing economic influence, India has been turned into a testing ground for external manipulation. Intelligence experts argue that USAID and affiliated entities have used research, social media influence, and targeted funding to sway public opinion in ways that benefit U.S. corporate and political interests.

Many believe that social media discourse, think-tank reports, and activism have been subtly guided by USAID-linked organizations. While these efforts are often disguised as democracy-building or advocacy for human rights, they serve a larger goal—keeping India aligned with Western influence and corporate profiteering.

U.S. Corporations: The Biggest Beneficiaries

John Perkins, bestselling author of Confessions of an Economic Hitman, has extensively exposed how institutions like USAID ultimately work in favor of American businesses. Speaking to Sputnik India, Perkins explained how foreign aid, rather than being an altruistic endeavor, primarily serves U.S. corporate giants.

“Foreign aid funds and loans intended for developing nations, channeled through U.S. agencies, are ultimately designed to benefit American corporations,” Perkins noted.

By ensuring that aid money is spent on projects where American contractors and multinational firms dominate, these agencies create long-term economic dependence. India, with its booming economy, has been a prime target for such predatory tactics, further strengthening foreign control over its financial landscape.

Economic Hitmen Are in India

John Perkins, who once worked as an “economic hitman,” has detailed the methods used to keep developing nations indebted and subservient to Western economic policies.

“I can’t imagine economic hitmen, like I once was, not operating in countries like India and Bangladesh,” Perkins admitted, underscoring the likelihood that India remains a battleground for covert financial coercion.

The strategy is clear—trap countries in debt through high-interest loans, tie infrastructure projects to American firms, and use policy advisory roles to ensure that economic decisions favor U.S. interests. These tactics have long been used in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, and India appears to be no exception.

India’s Counteroffensive and the Path Forward

Under Modi’s leadership, India has aggressively pushed back against foreign interference. The government has tightened regulations on foreign-funded NGOs, scrutinized international grants, and restricted organizations that appear to serve external interests over India’s own development goals.

While these steps have helped in reclaiming India’s sovereignty, revelations about USAID’s alleged activities prove that the challenge is far from over. The country must remain vigilant against external forces that attempt to shape its political narrative and economic policies to their advantage.

The accusations against USAID paint a troubling picture of how international aid organizations can be weaponized to serve hidden agendas. What is often presented as benevolence or humanitarian work is, in reality, a sophisticated strategy of influence and control.

As India rises as a global power, it must fortify itself against such covert interventions. The battle is not just about development aid—it’s about safeguarding national sovereignty, ensuring fair democratic processes, and keeping the country’s economic destiny firmly in Indian hands.

Ex-Diplomat Bhadrakumar raises the question of the United States’ true intentions regarding the allegations against India, suggesting that they might be part of a broader strategy

Former Indian Diplomat Ambassador M.K. Bhadrakumar in his analysis suggests that there may be a hidden agenda at play, with the United States potentially using Trudeau as a pawn to target Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

Trudeau’s allegations against the Modi government come at a crucial juncture, just after the G20 summit, where India successfully prevented any negative references to Russia in the event’s final document.

This diplomatic victory for India coincided with a significant setback for the United States, leading to speculation that these allegations may be a form of retaliation.

Canada’s Role as a Surrogate

The case of Huawei’s Meng Wanzhou, which Bhadrakumar highlights, raises concerns about Canada’s role as a surrogate for the United States.

Meng Wanzhou, the deputy chair of Huawei’s board, was detained in Canada in December 2018 on a provisional U.S. extradition request. She was accused of fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud.

However, subsequent developments in the case have cast doubt on its regularity and raised questions about the motivations behind Meng’s arrest.

In August 2021, the extradition judge expressed “great difficulty in understanding” how the evidence presented by the U.S. government supported its allegations of criminality.

Then, in December 2022, the presiding judge dismissed the charges against Meng following a U.S. request.

These developments have led to speculation about the political nature of the case and whether it was driven by ulterior motives. The dismissal of charges against Meng raises questions about the validity of the initial allegations and suggests that the case may have been flawed or politically motivated.

Former Diplomat’s reference to this case implies that Canada’s willingness to detain Meng on the U.S. extradition request without sufficient evidence may indicate a pattern of acting as a surrogate for U.S. interests.

This raises concerns about Canada’s independence in its foreign policy decisions and its potential role in carrying out the agenda of its larger ally.

The Involvement of Five Eyes

Trudeau’s allegations, as mentioned in the article, reportedly rely on surveillance of Indian diplomats in Canada, with intelligence provided by a “major ally” belonging to the Five Eyes intelligence network.

The Five Eyes alliance comprises Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States, and it is known for its close intelligence-sharing relationship.

The involvement of the Five Eyes alliance in providing intelligence raises concerns about potential bias and shared interests against India.

The alliance has a history of cooperation in intelligence gathering and sharing, primarily focused on counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and other security-related matters.

While the alliance is built on the principle of trusted collaboration among its members, concerns about potential biases and shared interests are not unfounded.

Critics argue that the intelligence shared between Five Eyes members may reflect their collective perspectives and priorities, which may not always align with the interests of non-member countries such as India.

Support from the United States

The article mentions that Trudeau’s allegations were met with a supportive response from the White House, while the British government, another Five Eyes member, highlighted the close collaboration between Canberra (referring to the Australian government) and Washington regarding evidence of potential Indian involvement in Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing.

The White House emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation and encouraged India to cooperate.

The supportive response from the White House and the collaboration mentioned between Canberra and Washington regarding the evidence could indicate a shared perspective or alignment of interests among these countries.

India’s Reaction and BRICS Membership

According to Bhadrakumar, India’s response to the allegations made by Trudeau has been criticized for its lack of assertiveness. He argues that downgrading India’s representation at the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) foreign ministers’ meeting was a missed opportunity to strategically address the situation.

He emphasizes the significance of India’s BRICS membership, particularly during these extraordinary times.

The downgrade in India’s representation at the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, as suggested by Bhadrakumar, implies that India missed an opportunity to use the platform to address the allegations and present its perspective.

BRICS is an important multilateral forum that brings together major emerging economies and provides a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and collective decision-making on global issues.

By downgrading its representation, India may have missed an opportunity to engage with other BRICS members and present its side of the story, potentially influencing their perceptions and gaining support. 

Possible Motivations

Ex-Diplomat Bhadrakumar raises the question of the United States’ true intentions regarding the allegations against India, suggesting that they might be part of a broader strategy.

It also mentions Biden’s political career and potential controversies surrounding his presidency, implying that the allegations against India could be a diversionary tactic or an attempt to weaken Prime Minister Modi’s position ahead of India’s general election.

Speculating on the true intentions of a country or its leaders can be challenging, as it often involves analyzing complex geopolitical dynamics and motivations. 

The Crown Prince was received with the utmost respect and warmth, being greeted by both the President and Prime Minister of India.

In a momentous display of diplomacy, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, recently embarked on a state visit to India and actively participated in the G20 Summit. This visit was marked by a series of significant events and agreements that underscore the growing importance of Saudi-Indian relations on both the regional and global fronts.

Below are the key takeaways from this significant visit, drawn from a post authored by Saud Salman Al-Dossary, an MA Candidate in Middle-Eastern Studies at Columbia University.

Summit Success Celebrated

The G20 Summit concluded with resounding success, and the Crown Prince was quick to commend India’s role in this achievement. He remarked, “Well done India, a lot of announcements were made that will benefit both our countries, the G20 nations, and the whole world”.

This statement underlines the summit’s accomplishments and its positive impact on the global stage.

A Presidential and Prime Ministerial Welcome

The Crown Prince was received with the utmost respect and warmth, being greeted by both the President and Prime Minister of India. This exceptional welcome not only reflected the strength of diplomatic ties but also set the tone for the entire visit.

It was a tangible testament to the importance of the Saudi-Indian relationship and the commitment of both nations to further enhance their cooperation on various fronts.

Grand Reception at the Presidential Palace

The official reception ceremony at the Presidential Palace was a grand affair, followed by an elegant banquet. These ceremonial events were not merely diplomatic formalities, they were symbolic of the deep-rooted friendship between Saudi Arabia and India.

The lavishness and grace with which they were conducted highlighted the profound bond and mutual respect shared by the two nations.

Strategic Partnership Council Inauguration

A pivotal moment in the visit was the inauguration of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council. This was a historic first meeting, co-chaired by the Crown Prince and the Indian Prime Minister, signifying their commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors.

It marked a significant step forward in the bilateral relationship, underlining the intent to strengthen ties and collaborate on a broader range of economic, political, and strategic endeavors.

Prolific Memorandums of Understanding

The visit saw the exchange of numerous Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering critical areas such as energy, communications, manufacturing, anti-corruption, and bilateral investments.

These agreements reflect the intent of both nations to deepen their economic collaboration significantly.

They serve as a testament to the commitment of Saudi Arabia and India to foster closer ties and engage in mutually beneficial partnerships across a wide spectrum of vital sectors.

Surge in Bilateral Trade

Economic ties between Saudi Arabia and India are flourishing, with bilateral trade reaching a remarkable $52 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23.

This impressive growth rate of over 23% underscores the robust economic potential that exists between the two nations.

It signifies not only the current strength of their economic partnership but also the opportunities for further expansion and cooperation in the future.

Gratitude and Congratulations

India expressed its heartfelt gratitude to Saudi Arabia for evacuating Indian nationals from Sudan via Jeddah, highlighting the crucial role of diplomacy during times of crisis.

Saudi Arabia received warm congratulations from India for the successful management of the Hajj season, demonstrating their expertise in handling large-scale events.

Commitment to Oil Market Stability

Both nations underscored the importance of maintaining stability in the global oil market, reaffirming their commitment to collaborative efforts in this regard.

This shared commitment reflects the recognition of the crucial role that the energy sector plays in the global economy and the need for responsible and coordinated actions to ensure its stability and resilience.

Enhancing Cooperation in Key Sectors

Saudi Arabia and India have set their sights on boosting cooperation in the fields of electricity interconnection and petrochemical production, aligning their objectives for economic development.

This strategic alignment highlights their intention to harness the potential of these sectors to drive economic growth and enhance the energy landscape, ultimately benefiting both nations and fostering regional prosperity.

Sustainability in Focus

India welcomed Saudi Arabia’s commendable green initiatives, most notably the ‘Saudi Green’ and ‘Middle East Green’ initiatives, aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.

This warm reception demonstrated India’s recognition of the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its willingness to collaborate on critical global challenges.

In response, Saudi Arabia reciprocated by acknowledging India’s substantial efforts in combating climate change, underscoring their shared responsibility towards environmental challenges.

This mutual acknowledgment highlights the importance of global cooperation and joint action to address pressing issues such as climate change and underscores the potential for collaboration between the two nations in sustainable development endeavors.

Vision 2030 Acknowledged

India extended its congratulations and support for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan for economic diversification and modernization.

This gesture of solidarity reflects India’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties and its recognition of the Kingdom’s ambitious efforts to transform its economy and society.

The endorsement of Vision 2030 underscores the potential for mutual growth and collaboration between the two nations in the years ahead.

BRICS Invitation Appreciated

Saudi Arabia expressed profound gratitude to India for its unwavering support of the Kingdom’s invitation to join BRICS, a recognition of the Kingdom’s growing global significance.

This acknowledgement underscores the depth of the strategic partnership between the two nations and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s expanding role on the world stage.

The inclusion of Saudi Arabia in BRICS is not only a testament to its geopolitical importance but also an opportunity for both nations to collaborate within this influential forum.

Modi also expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed for his efforts in improving the welfare of the Indian expatriate community residing in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman on Monday has reiterated the importance of the Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia, affirming that they are an integral part of the Kingdom.

With approximately 7 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population hailing from India, this declaration underscores the significance of the Indian diaspora in the Kingdom. The Crown Prince stated, “The Indian community in Saudi Arabia is part of us, and we take care of them as we take care of our citizens”.

In his opening remarks of Saudi-India Strategic Partnership Council Meeting, the Crown Prince commended the leaders for the successful management of the recent G20 Summit and the initiatives achieved, particularly the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEE) project that aims to connect the Middle East, India, and Europe.

He stressed the need for sustained collaborative efforts to transform this vision into a reality, stating, “We need to work diligently to make it a reality”.

The Crown Prince underscored the historic spirit of cooperation between Saudi Arabia and India, highlighting the absence of any historical disagreements. Instead, he emphasized the joint commitment to building a prosperous future for both nations.

Prince Mohammed expressed optimism about the extensive agenda being pursued through the council, emphasizing the promising opportunities on the horizon.

During the first Leaders’ Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council, Crown Prince Mohammed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in extensive discussions covering a broad spectrum of bilateral cooperation areas.

These included energy security, trade and investment, defense and security, healthcare, food security, culture, and community welfare. Prime Minister Modi described Saudi Arabia as one of India’s most crucial strategic partners and anticipated that their talks would further enhance the strong ties between the two nations.

Modi also expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed for his efforts in improving the welfare of the Indian expatriate community residing in Saudi Arabia.

Following the meeting, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Modi formally signed the minutes of the first meeting, reinforcing their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation.

In addition to the leaders’ discussions and agreements, more than two dozen Memoranda of Understanding were signed between Indian and Saudi Arabian companies, spanning various sectors such as information technology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and human resources.

The Saudi Crown Prince’s visit was accompanied by a high-level delegation, comprising ministers and senior officials, further underscoring the importance of strengthening the enduring partnership between Saudi Arabia and India.

With Bangladesh sharing the longest land border with India, any adverse situation in the country directly affects India’s security and stability.

India has reportedly expressed its dissatisfaction with the United States’ involvement in the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, emphasizing that such actions may destabilize the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The message from India comes ahead of the G20 Leaders Summit, where both President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Hasina are scheduled to attend. This development holds significance, as India believes that a weak government in Bangladesh could have adverse consequences for regional security and bilateral relations.

India’s Concerns and Perspective

According to unnamed sources cited by Anandabazar Patrika, a Kolkata-based newspaper, India has raised concerns about the potential political concessions to Jamaat-e-Islami, a fundamentalist organization in Bangladesh. New Delhi fears that such concessions could pave the way for fundamentalism to gain a stronghold in Dhaka, endangering the liberal environment that currently exists. India shares the view with Washington that a weak government under Hasina’s leadership would not be in the best interest of either country.

Indian diplomats have reportedly communicated their concerns to the Biden administration at various levels of meetings. The decision to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan and the subsequent power shift to the Taliban have significantly altered the security dynamics in the entire region, including India’s Northeast Frontier region. India perceives the situation as precarious, with the Taliban’s ascendancy in Afghanistan raising concerns about the safety and stability of neighboring countries.

India’s concerns extend beyond Bangladesh, as it believes that America’s policies toward Kabul and other neighboring nations have created discomfort and raised questions about national interests. With Bangladesh sharing the longest land border with India, any adverse situation in the country directly affects India’s security and stability.

India’s Warnings and Consequences

Indian officials have warned the Biden administration that patronizing the growth of Jamaat-e-Islami could lead to increased cross-border terrorism and enhanced Chinese influence in Bangladesh, outcomes that are undesirable for Washington. While the U.S. views Jamaat as an Islamic political organization, India firmly believes that it is controlled by radical fundamentalist groups and Pakistan, rather than representing a moderate stance.

India has also expressed its reservations about the Biden administration’s separate visa policy for Bangladesh, which is seen as a direct interference in the internal politics of Bangladesh. Under this policy, individuals involved in disrupting the upcoming elections will be denied entry to the United States. Indian diplomats argue that this move undermines regional stability and represents an imposition of U.S. laws on another country.

Positive Engagement and Regional Stability

During a recent visit to New Delhi, a delegation from Bangladesh Awami League held meetings with top leaders of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and central government ministers. The delegation conveyed the message that the alliance between Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami poses a threat to regional stability. Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzaque, the leader of the delegation, had a positive meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Following the meeting, Razzaque stated that the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is committed to preventing Bangladesh’s soil from being used for anti-India activities.

India’s warnings regarding the potential consequences of empowering Jamaat-e-Islami and the implications for cross-border terrorism and Chinese influence highlight the importance of maintaining a strong and stable government in Bangladesh. As both India and the United States navigate their bilateral relations and engage with regional dynamics, constructive dialogue and cooperation will be crucial in ensuring peace and stability in South Asia.

India’s inclusion among the top US alliances underscores the significant progress in bilateral relations between the two nations.

The United States of America has identified India among the strong alliances and partnerships, while Pakistan has been listed among the “trouble spots” in the region, according to a recent analysis conducted by Derek J Grossman, national security and Indo-Pacific analyst at the renowned RAND Corporation.

Grossman’s assessment of the US alliances in the Indo-Pacific region emphasizes the growing strength and importance of these partnerships. The list of countries marked with a green tick includes Australia, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Mongolia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These nations have established deep ties and collaborative relationships with the United States, demonstrating a shared commitment to regional stability, security, and economic cooperation.

India’s inclusion among the top US alliances underscores the significant progress in bilateral relations between the two nations. Over the years, India and the United States have strengthened their strategic partnership, focusing on defense cooperation, trade, and shared democratic values. The acknowledgment of India’s pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region solidifies its position as a key player on the world stage.

On the other hand, the identification of Pakistan as a “trouble spot” highlights the existing challenges and complexities within the region. While Pakistan has been a long-standing partner of the United States, its political dynamics and historical tensions contribute to its inclusion in this category. The designation does not imply a complete breakdown of relations, but rather serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues that require attention and diplomatic efforts.

The remaining countries listed as potential “trouble spots” are Bangladesh, Kiribati, Malaysia, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and Thailand. Each of these nations faces unique challenges, ranging from geopolitical concerns to internal conflicts or governance issues.

The RAND Corporation, a renowned global policy think tank, conducts comprehensive research and analysis to provide insights into various aspects of international affairs.

Grossman’s analysis serves as a valuable resource for policymakers and analysts, shedding light on the evolving dynamics of US alliances and highlighting the need for continued engagement and collaboration to address regional challenges effectively.

*In Featured Image: President Joe Biden, center, leads a virtual meeting with Prime Mininster Narendra Modi of India at the White House on Monday, April 11, 2022. He is joined by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, left, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh of India, and Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

The resolution, titled “Countering religious hatred constituting incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence”, was adopted by the 47-member Council with 28 members voting in favor, seven abstentions, and 12 nations voting against.

India’s vote in favor of the resolution condemned and rejected the recent public and premeditated acts of desecration of the Holy Quran. The resolution called on states to hold perpetrators of these acts accountable in line with international human rights law.

The draft resolution was brought by Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the State of Palestine. It urged the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and relevant special procedures to speak out against religious hatred and contribute to the examination of gaps in national laws, policies, and practices.

The resolution also called upon states to examine their national laws, policies, and law enforcement frameworks to identify gaps that impede the prevention and prosecution of acts of religious hatred and to take immediate steps to plug those gaps.

The debate on the topic was prompted by recent incidents of burning the Quran, which is the core of faith for over a billion people. The burning of the Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm last month by an Iraqi Christian immigrant, supported by the Swedish government, has sparked widespread anger and condemnation across the Islamic world.

Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, underlined that many societies are struggling with the weaponization of religious differences for political purposes. He warned against allowing ourselves to be instrumentalized by those who seek to divide us and emphasized the need to reject the deliberate provocation of hatred and violence.

PM Modi tweeted, “Congratulations @RTErdogan on re-election as the President of Türkiye!”.

The Indian premier also expressed his desire to strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Turkey, and to work together on issues of mutual interest.

“I am confident that our bilateral ties and cooperation on global issues will continue to grow in the coming times”, he said.

President Erdogan won a resounding victory in Turkey’s presidential elections held on May 14th, securing a third term in office with over 52.14% of the vote.

The election campaign was marked by a fierce debate over Turkey’s future direction, with Erdogan’s opponents accusing him of authoritarianism and curtailing civil liberties.

However, the Turkish President dismissed the criticism, arguing that his policies were necessary to maintain stability and security in a volatile region.

Modi’s congratulatory message comes at a time when India and Turkey have been working to strengthen their ties, particularly in the areas of trade and investment.

In recent years, India and Turkey have signed several agreements aimed at boosting economic cooperation, including a bilateral trade agreement and an investment protection pact.

Both countries have also been keen to enhance cultural and people-to-people ties, with the Turkish government recently announcing plans to establish a cultural center in New Delhi.

In February, PM Modi instructed his office to offer all possible support to deal with the earthquake in Turkey. Later, the picture of Turkish woman tightly hugging an Indian female military officer, won the hearts.

Modi’s message of congratulations is likely to be welcomed by Erdogan and his supporters, who have been keen to highlight the international support for the Turkish President’s reelection.

Erdogan has faced criticism from some quarters for his crackdown on political opponents and the media, as well as his controversial policies on issues such as Syria and the Kurdish minority in Turkey.

With Modi’s message of congratulations, Erdogan can now add another high-profile endorsement to his list of international supporters.