* Opposition to Modi, Shah’s intention of Congress mukt
Udupi: Narendra Modi led central government’s performance is not as expected, said Sri Vishvesha Tirtharu of the Pejawara Mutt.
Addressing a press conference here at Pejawara Mutt in Udupi, he said, "There are some achievements from the central government. But this government has not been able to achieve the desired level."
“The Modi government has not fulfilled their promises. They had said that they would bring black money but did not bring, Ganga was not cleansed. But they have brought some control over the country's economic sector,” Swamiji said.
► Ram Mandir is not a priority
When media asked about the completion of the Ram Mandir’s construction, he replied “it is not the country's priority. The conservation of farmers, the economic condition of the country is an urgent need. Construction of the Ram Mandir comes later; besides, this matter is still in court," said Pejawar Shree.
► Opposition to Congress Free
I oppose Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah's intention of making the country free from Congress. There has to be strong opposition parties for a healthy democracy,” Sri Vishvesha Theertha Swamiji opined.
► Today's democracy is distorted
Pejawarashree expressed concern that today's democracy is distorted by the political parties' legislators operation resort politics.
"I do not have a good opinion about any of these parties. They fought between each other and abused at each other before the elections, then joined hands for power. All of this is happening like a drama.
Looking at all this, there is an indication that I am the most ideal. That is the government of all religions. In some places, it has been practical. But I am skeptical about whether it is possible in India today, "said Pejawar Shree.
“Kumaraswamy is experienced. I expect good governance from him. In fact, I expect the best out of all governments. But today's politics is not clean, and democracy is distorted,” the Swamiji added.
► Unity of opposition parties
When asked about the BJP government losing its popularity, he said “today the BJP's strength is uniting the opposition parties. How all the opposition parties were united when Congress was strong; in the same way, now parties including Congress are uniting against BJP today. The impact can be seen in the next elections," he said.
It all depends upon how the Narendra Modi Government fulfills its promises and how it gives governance.
► Thinking of the Iftar party
This time also the idea of organising an Iftar party by the Pajawara mutt is taking place and talks are going on with Muslims. But the final decision is not yet taken. We would organise it if the Muslim leaders agree, will not insist.
But this time they are not showing that enthusiasm. If we do, we will organize it at the Pejawara mutt’s Govinda Kalyanamantapa.
I do not listen to anyone. We aim to bring harmony in both Hindu and Muslim communities. I will condemn when Hindus face injustice.
“Hindus should get all the benefits available to minorities. It was a big controversy when I had asked to amend the Constitution for this if necessary. I did not say that I would change the constitution. I wanted there was no discrimination against anyone,” the seer said.
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Shreveport(US) (AP): A gunman in Louisiana killed eight children in shootings at two different homes early Sunday in the nation's deadliest mass shooting in more than two years, police in Shreveport said.
The victims ranged in age from one to about 14 years old, said Shreveport police spokesperson Chris Bordelon. A total of 10 were shot and some of the children were related to the suspect, Bordelon said.
The gunman later died after a chase with officers who fired at the suspect, Bordelon said. The suspect stole a car while leaving the scene of the shootings and was followed by police, according to Bordelon.
Police did not release the name of the suspect but did say he was an adult male. The shootings were the result of a “domestic disturbance,” Bordelon said.
Officials said they were still gathering details at the crime scenes south of downtown Shreveport — the two homes and a third location.
“This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” he said.
It was the deadliest mass shooting in the US since eight people were killed in a Chicago suburb in January 2024, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.
At a news conference outside the residence where one of the shootings occurred, officials appeared stunned, requesting patience and prayers from the community as they sorted through multiple crime scenes.
“I just don't know what to say, my heart is just taken aback,” Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said. “I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”
“This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we've ever had,” said Tom Arceneaux, mayor of the city in northwestern Louisiana with about 180,000 residents. “It's a terrible morning.”
Louisiana State Police say their detectives have been asked by Shreveport police to investigate. In a statement, state police say no officers were harmed in the shooting that involved an officer after a police pursuit into Bossier City on Sunday morning.
State police are asking anyone with pictures, video or information to share it with state police detectives.
Louisiana Gov Jeff Landry said in a statement that he and his wife were heartbroken. “We're deeply grateful to the law enforcement officers and first responders working tirelessly on the scene,” he added.
