Akhilesh Yadav condemns Jain temple demolition in Mumbai
Lucknow, Apr 18 (PTI): Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Friday voiced concern over the recent demolition of a Jain temple in Mumbai, accusing the BJP governments of systematically targeting the peaceful Jain community across India.
He was responding to reports in a section of the media that a Jain temple has been demolished in Mumbai.
In a post on X, Yadav addressed the Jain community directly, stating, "In today's times, being a minority in the country is becoming a curse. The fear, insecurity, and uncertainty currently prevailing among the Jain community is deeply concerning and has drawn worldwide attention and condemnation."
Highlighting a series of incidents, Yadav claimed these were part of an increasing pattern of aggression towards the community.
He referred to the violent attack on Jain monks in Singoli, Madhya Pradesh, a leaked audio clip from Jabalpur allegedly containing objectionable remarks against Jains by BJP members, and the demolition of a Jain temple in Mumbai, where sacred idols, scriptures, and religious books were allegedly disrespected.
Yadav questioned, "Why is it that wherever there is a BJP government, such incidents targeting Jain temples, pilgrimage sites, and institutions occur?"
He alleged that BJP-backed elements have been eyeing not just Jain religious and public properties but also their private assets.
Listing past incidents, he recalled the controversy around Shri Girnar Ji in Gujarat, central government's interference at Shri Sammed Shikhar Ji, and the opposition to the installation of a Jain idol in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. He also referred to the 2022 killing of 65-year-old Bhawarlal Jain in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, allegedly at the hands of a powerful BJP supporter.
Yadav further alleged that the BJP views the Jain community only through the lens of donations and votes. "Does the BJP believe our importance lies only in giving donations? Who will protect our religion and community?" he asked.
"Rebuilding a temple cannot undo the insult caused to our idols, scriptures, and sentiments."
Praising the Jain philosophy of non-violence, co-existence, and compassion, Yadav said, "Jainism has long stood as a model of tolerance and morality, contributing immensely to India's culture, economy, and education."
He assured the community of support, saying the Jain community may be numerically small but is a part of the broader PDA (Pichhda-Dalit-Alpsankhyak) alliance representing 90 per cent of the population.
"These discouraging actions by those in power will not weaken the Jain community. We stand united with them in this difficult time."
The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister ended his message with a sharp remark: "The Jain community must remember - BJP is loyal to no one."
प्रिय जैन समाज,
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) April 18, 2025
जय जिनेंद्र!
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ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan takes leave amid sexual misconduct probe linked to UN investigation
Hague: International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has taken a leave of absence pending the outcome of a United Nations investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of authority, the court confirmed on Friday.
Khan, a British barrister elected in 2021, recently made global headlines by seeking arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza. His leave comes amid increasing internal pressure from senior ICC staff following the emergence of serious accusations.
The investigation, launched in November 2024 by the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), is examining allegations that Khan engaged in unwanted sexual contact, coercive behaviour, and abused his position of authority toward a female subordinate. Additionally, the probe is exploring claims of possible witness intimidation and retaliation against prosecution staff. Khan was reportedly questioned by OIOS investigators over two days last week.
Despite initially resisting calls to step aside, Khan has now informed the court that he will take leave until the inquiry concludes. In his absence, the ICC's two deputy prosecutors—Nazhat Shameem Khan of Fiji and Mame Mandiaye Niang of Senegal—will assume interim leadership of the Office of the Prosecutor, which oversees around 450 personnel.
The developments come at a particularly sensitive moment for the ICC, which is currently navigating politically charged investigations, including those related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Observers have noted that the timing of the investigation into Khan has raised suspicions of political motivation, particularly following his actions against Israeli officials, though no conclusive evidence has surfaced to support such claims.
The United States, which has previously sanctioned ICC officials, is reportedly considering renewed measures in response to the court's recent actions regarding Israeli leaders. Earlier this year, former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed travel and financial restrictions on Khan.
Once the OIOS completes its investigation, the final report will be submitted to the president of the court’s governing body. If it concludes that Khan committed serious misconduct or violated his official duties, the ICC’s 125 member states will vote via secret ballot on whether he should be removed from office.
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