politics 43 - The Latremie Post

Sikh organizations urge Centre to reconsider Pakistan pilgrimage travel ban

**Sikh Organizations Urge Centre to Reconsider Pakistan Pilgrimage Travel Ban**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 12:48 PM*

Sikh organizations and political parties have appealed to the Indian government to rethink its decision to halt pilgrimage travel to Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, a site of great religious significance. Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) advised states to stop processing applications for journeys to Nankana Sahib citing security concerns related to Pakistan.

This directive has left many devotees disappointed. Among them is Kanwaljit Kaur Dhillon from Ludhiana district in Punjab, who, along with her husband, had been eagerly planning to visit Nankana Sahib to participate in Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary celebrations in November. “If the game of cricket between two nations could be allowed, then why restrict us?” Dhillon questioned. She is one of approximately 1,900 applicants who submitted their documents through the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for the pilgrimage.

### Demand for Reopening Kartarpur Corridor

In addition to the plea for resuming pilgrimages to Nankana Sahib, Sikh organizations are also demanding the reopening of the Kartarpur corridor. This corridor, established in 2019 to facilitate easier access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, was temporarily closed during the COVID-19 pandemic but reopened in 2021. However, it was shut again in May following Operation Sindoor.

On May 9, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the suspension of the corridor citing security concerns. So far, the Ministry of External Affairs has not indicated when it might reopen the corridor.

### Concerns Over Discrimination and Security Claims

Amarjit Singh, Director of the Sikh Studies Chair at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, questioned the government’s decision, pointing out that Sikh devotees from across the globe visit Nankana Sahib. “So, security would not be an issue only for Sikhs from India, would it?” he asked.

Similarly, Dharam Singh, a former professor at Punjabi University Patiala, criticized the ban, remarking that if bilateral cricket matches are permitted between India and Pakistan, then pilgrims should logically be allowed to visit as well.

### SGPC Seeks Permission for Pilgrimage

The SGPC had begun collecting passports from devotees in July to send pilgrimage visa applications to the Pakistan High Commission. This process was initiated before the Home Ministry issued its advisory.

Currently, the SGPC has formally requested the Centre to grant permission for pilgrims to visit Nankana Sahib during the upcoming Guru Nanak Dev birth anniversary celebrations in November.

The Sikh community awaits a favorable response, hoping for the restoration of pilgrimage rights that hold deep spiritual significance.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/if-cricket-allowed-why-not-pilgrimages-to-pakistan-sikh-groups/story

Indian Embassy in US issues emergency number for H-1B concerns

**Indian Embassy in US Issues Emergency Number for H-1B Concerns**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 01:47 PM*

**Overview**

The Indian Embassy in the United States has issued an emergency assistance number for Indian nationals amid growing concerns following a new proclamation by President Donald Trump. The proclamation imposes a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, raising alarm among thousands of Indian tech professionals working in the US.

The embassy shared an official message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Indian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp).”

—

**Impact on Indian Tech Professionals**

The announcement of the hefty new fee has triggered widespread worry about its impact on Indian tech workers and remittances sent back home. Indians make up approximately 71-72% of all H-1B visa recipients, highlighting the significance of this policy change.

Fortunately, a senior official from the US administration clarified that the annual fee applies only to new H-1B visa petitions and does not affect existing visa holders or those renewing their visas. While this offers some relief, uncertainties remain among businesses and affected individuals.

—

**Important Note**

The emergency number provided by the Indian Embassy is intended strictly for urgent assistance related to the new fee structure and is **not** for routine consular queries.

—

**Diplomatic Response**

In response to these changes, the Indian government has instructed all its missions and posts in the US to provide maximum support to Indian nationals preparing to travel or return in the next 24 hours.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely analyzing how these new rules could affect Indian families and professionals living in the US.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal commented on the situation, saying, “The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned.” He emphasized that both Indian and American industries have a shared interest in fostering innovation and creativity, suggesting ongoing consultations to find the best way forward.

—

The situation is evolving, and Indian nationals affected by these changes are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and utilize the emergency assistance number if needed.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/h-1b-row-indian-embassy-issues-emergency-number-for-assisting-nationals/story

Russia launches large-scale attack on Ukraine, three dead, dozens injured

The enemy’s target was our infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated. He added that a missile armed with cluster munitions struck a multi-storey building in the city of Dnipro.

“Each such strike is not a military necessity but a deliberate strategy by Russia to intimidate civilians and destroy our infrastructure,” Zelenskyy wrote on his official Telegram account.

The Ukrainian President also informed that he expects to meet United States (US) President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) next week. He added that the first ladies of Ukraine and the US would likely hold separate talks focused on humanitarian issues concerning children.

His comments, made on Friday, were embargoed until Saturday morning.

—

At least 30 people were wounded in the attack in Ukraine’s central Dnipropetrovsk region, Governor Serhii Lysak said. Several high-rise buildings and homes were damaged in the eastern city of Dnipro, according to the Associated Press (AP).

In the Kyiv region, authorities reported strikes in Bucha, Boryspil, and Obukhiv, which damaged homes and cars. In western Lviv, Governor Maxim Kozytsky said two cruise missiles were shot down.

Russia launched 619 drones and missiles, Ukraine’s Air Force reported. This included 579 drones, eight ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles. Ukrainian forces shot down 552 drones, two ballistic missiles, and 29 cruise missiles.

“Western weapons once again prove their effectiveness on the battlefield,” the Air Force said.

—

**Russia Denies Violating Estonia’s Airspace**

Russia’s Defence Ministry denied its aircraft violated Estonia’s airspace after Tallinn reported that three Russian fighter jets crossed into its territory on Friday without permission for 12 minutes. The incident was described by Estonia’s top diplomat as an unprecedentedly brazen incursion.

This occurred just over a week after NATO planes downed Russian drones over Poland, raising fears that the conflict could spill over into NATO territory.

Moscow stated that the MiG-31 fighter jets remained over neutral Baltic Sea waters, more than three kilometres from Estonia’s Vaindloo Island in the Gulf of Finland.

On September 19, the three MiG-31 fighter jets completed a scheduled flight from Karelia to an airfield in the Kaliningrad region. The Russian Defence Ministry emphasized that the flight was conducted in strict compliance with international airspace regulations and did not violate the borders of other states, as confirmed through objective monitoring.

Estonian officials said Tallinn summoned a Russian diplomat to protest the incident and initiated consultations among NATO allies under Article 4, which allows members to confer whenever territorial integrity, political independence, or security is threatened.

—

**Polish and Allied Aircraft Scrambled**

Poland’s Operational Command reported that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed overnight in response to Russian long-range airstrikes in neighbouring Ukraine. The operation was described as preventive and aimed at securing airspace near the threatened zones.

Polish jets have frequently patrolled the country’s airspace in connection with Russian attacks on Ukraine. Last week, Romania deployed two F-16 jets to intercept a drone that briefly entered its airspace.

—

**Zelenskyy Seeks to Finalise Security Guarantees in New York Meetings**

President Zelenskyy said Ukraine and its partners have laid the groundwork for long-term security guarantees. He hopes to gauge progress during next week’s meetings in New York.

He added that European nations are ready to move forward with a framework if the United States remains closely engaged, with ongoing discussions among military leadership and general staffs in Europe and the US.

“I would like to receive signals for myself on how close we are to understanding that the security guarantees from all partners will be the kind we need,” Zelenskyy said.

He stressed that sanctions against Russia must remain in place if peace efforts stall and stated he would press the issue with President Trump.

“If the war continues and there is no movement toward peace, we expect sanctions,” he said, adding that Trump is seeking strong steps from Europe.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/russia-ukraine-war-three-killed-in-massive-drone-and-missile-attack-across-nine-regions-says-volodymyr-zelenskyy-23594995

Leaving Hamas in power would be a cowardly betrayal of the Israeli people – opinion

**Leaving Hamas in Power Would Be a Cowardly Betrayal of the Israeli People**

As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, those who have sacrificed in the conflict are growing increasingly frustrated with both Israeli and US officials. Many believe that allowing Hamas to remain in power is not only unacceptable but also a betrayal of the Israeli people who have endured tremendous hardship.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue their operations in the Gaza Strip, aiming to dismantle Hamas’s capabilities and protect Israeli civilians. For example, on September 19, 2025, the IDF intensified their efforts as part of this ongoing campaign. *(Photo credit: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)*

This prolonged conflict highlights the urgent need for decisive action. Leaving Hamas unchecked could empower a group responsible for consistent attacks against Israel, undermining the safety and future of its citizens.

— Jonathan Pollard
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868170

Australian singer quits Russia’s Eurovision alternative

Intervision, the Russian alternative to the Eurovision Song Contest, has kicked off in Moscow with a message from President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that the event promotes the preservation of cultural identity. “Respect for traditional values and the diversity of cultures is the fundamental idea of the competition and inspires participants to achieve artistic heights,” Putin stated.

The musical competition features 23 countries and is being held at the Live Arena concert hall in Moscow, with an audience of approximately 11,000 spectators, according to the organizers.

Shortly before the performance of Australian-born singer Vasiliki Karagiorgos, known as Vassy, who was set to represent the United States, the hosts announced her withdrawal from the contest. The organizers, confirming that Vassy holds US citizenship, attributed her removal to alleged “unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government.”

Vassy was originally a replacement candidate after the initially announced US entrant, musician B Howard (Brandon Howard), withdrew on Wednesday due to “unforeseen family reasons.”

Russia’s state-run Channel One is broadcasting the three-and-a-half-hour show. The winner will be decided by an international jury composed of representatives from the participating countries. These include former Soviet republics such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, as well as Russia’s allies within the BRICS group—China, India, Brazil, and South Africa.

Unlike Eurovision, Intervision does not allow public voting. Russia has been barred from participating in Eurovision since 2022, following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Intervision is widely seen as President Putin’s conservative counter-project to Eurovision. Reflecting this stance, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov remarked, “There will be no perversions or mockery of human nature.”
https://www.perthnow.com.au/entertainment/australian-singer-quits-russias-eurovision-alternative-c-20091310

Report Alleges George Soros Doled Out $80 Million To Leftist Groups Glorifying Terrorism

**Billionaire George Soros Allegedly Funneled Over $80 Million to Groups Praising Terrorism or Urging Protest Violence, Report Claims**

A new report by the Capital Research Center alleges that billionaire megadonor George Soros has channeled more than $80 million to organizations that praised terrorists or encouraged protest violence in the United States. According to the report, Soros, through his Open Society Foundations, has distributed tens of millions of dollars to groups engaging in or endorsing actions that meet the FBI’s definition of domestic terrorism.

The revelations come amid ongoing investigations into left-wing organizations potentially linked to the September 10 murder of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

### Funding Controversial Groups

Since 2020, the Open Society Foundations have reportedly provided $400,000 to the Center for Third World Organizing, a group noted by the Capital Research Center for its involvement in street protests during the George Floyd riots. The Center has consolidated various radical groups, including the Ruckus Society, whose founders and training materials reportedly endorse tactics that may be illegal.

The network also includes the BlackOUT Collective, co-author of a pro-Hamas guide that glorifies the October 7 attacks and references a Ruckus Society manual promoting tactics such as property destruction and blockades.

Other significant contributions include $1,850,000 to Dream Defenders and $18 million to Movement for Black Lives. The latter collaborated with the BlackOUT Collective to produce the pro-Hamas guide.

Additionally, Soros’s foundations have given $200,000 to Dissenters, another co-author of the guide. Dissenters is listed as an endorser of the Shut It Down for Palestine coalition, which reportedly praises shutting down highways and bridges and targets Israeli arms producers.

### Affiliations with Tax Resistance and Radical Coalitions

Shut It Down for Palestine partners with the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee, a group that promotes illegal tax avoidance linked to U.S. defense activities. A spokesperson for the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee confirmed to the Daily Caller News Foundation that the group advises activists on avoiding paying some taxes to the IRS to avoid funding national security activities but refrained from further comment on the report.

The Sunrise Movement, another recipient of at least $2 million from the Open Society Foundations, promoted the Stop Cop City/Defend the Atlanta Forest coalition. This coalition has been connected to Antifa-associated anarchist terrorism, with dozens of members facing domestic terrorism and racketeering charges for arson, property destruction, and assaults on law enforcement.

Sunrise also encouraged donations to the Atlanta Solidarity Fund, which prosecutors allege provided bail, legal defense, and materials such as ammunition, drones, and surveillance equipment.

### Responses and Statements

Requests for comment from the Center for Third World Organizing, Ruckus Society, BlackOUT Collective, Dream Defenders, Movement for Black Lives, Dissenters, Sunrise Movement, and the Stop Cop City/Defend the Atlanta Forest coalition went unanswered. The Shut It Down for Palestine coalition also could not be reached for comment.

A spokesperson for the Open Society Foundations told the Daily Caller News Foundation, “The Open Society Foundations does not fund terrorism. Our activities are peaceful and lawful, and our grantees are expected to abide by human rights principles and be in compliance with the law. Our work is solely dedicated to strengthening American democracy and upholding the fundamental freedoms enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.”

### Political Reactions

Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for federal racketeering charges against George Soros and his son, Alex. In an August post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “George Soros, and his wonderful Radical Left son, should be charged with RICO because of their support of Violent Protests, and much more, all throughout the United States of America. Soros, and his group of psychopaths, have caused great damage to our Country!”

Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk—which investigators are probing as a politically motivated attack—dozens of House Republicans have demanded the formation of a select committee to investigate “the money, influence, and power behind the radical Left’s assault on America and the rule of law.”

President Biden also announced the designation of Antifa as a major terrorist organization, labeling the far-left group a “sick, dangerous, radical Left disaster” and urging investigations into its financial backers.

—

*This article is based on information from the Capital Research Center and statements made by various public figures and organizations.*
https://www.dailysignal.com/2025/09/20/report-alleges-george-soros-doled-out-80-million-to-leftist-groups-glorifying-terrorism/

Leaving Hamas in power would be a cowardly betrayal of the Israeli people – opinion

**Leaving Hamas in Power Would Be a Cowardly Betrayal of the Israeli People – Opinion**

As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, those who have sacrificed in this conflict are growing increasingly frustrated with both Israeli and US officials. The ongoing hostilities continue to take a heavy toll on the Israeli population, leading many to question the current strategies and approaches.

On September 19, 2025, the IDF conducted operations in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the intense military engagements taking place. (Photo credit: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)

By Jonathan Pollard
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868170

UF Rescinds Emeritus Status for Professor Over Kirk Facebook Post

The University of Florida rescinded a retired professor’s emeritus status on Friday over a controversial Facebook post made on the evening of Charlie Kirk’s death. The post had sparked significant backlash on social media.

The university announced on social media that a retired faculty member, who issued a post causing concern, had lost their emeritus status. However, in a follow-up, the university did not confirm to the Florida Phoenix the identity of the professor involved.

The Gainesville Sun later reported that the professor in question is Jeffrey Harrison, a retired UF law professor. On his public Facebook profile, Harrison posted on the night of Kirk’s death:

> “There is a lot of commentary about Charlie Kirk. It’s not that complicated. He was an evil person spouting all kinds of hateful messages. I did not want him to die. I reserve that wish for Trump. But let’s face it, even members of the Gestapo and guards at the concentration camps had children. That does not make them heroes, nor does it make Charlie Kirk someone to be admired.”

At the time the Florida Phoenix began writing their story, the post was still publicly visible. However, before publication and after a reporter reached out to Harrison for an interview, his Facebook profile disappeared.

Conservative activist Scott Presler, who has 2.3 million followers on X (formerly Twitter), called on Thursday for the university to sever all ties with the professor and remove any current duties he might have at UF.

Also on Thursday, Harrison posted a statement in response to the backlash:

> “I am getting a lot of hateful commentary about a recent post in which I did not want Charlie Kirk to die but it would be fine with me if Trump did. The latter sentiment I have seen on Facebook scores of times. This avalanche of hate came after someone reposted my original post on X. This leads me to ask if X has gone over, even more than Facebook, to Trumpers?”

This subsequent post is also no longer publicly accessible.

According to University of Florida regulations, emeritus status is conferred in recognition of meritorious service and includes continued campus courtesies such as parking privileges, use of library and recreational facilities, admission to athletic and cultural events, receipt of faculty publications, participation in contracts and grants, and attendance at academic convocations. Following the incident, Harrison’s name was removed from the Levin College of Law’s list of emeritus faculty.

Harrison previously wrote a guest column in The Gainesville Sun in 2022 criticizing UF administrators for what he described as their deference to Governor Ron DeSantis.

This rescinding of emeritus status comes amid warnings from Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas and State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues, who have promised accountability for educators celebrating or excusing campus violence.

The University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, and now the University of Florida have all been under scrutiny for professors’ social media posts following Kirk’s death. Several K-12 teachers have also faced investigations, as previously reported by the Florida Phoenix.

On Friday, Miami-Dade public schools confirmed to the Florida Phoenix that they have received five allegations against employees regarding inappropriate conduct on social media or in the classroom related to Charlie Kirk’s death. These allegations are currently under investigation, according to the district.

— Jay Waagmeester, Florida Phoenix
https://flaglerlive.com/uf-professor-firing/

Mumbai: VHP Advises Only Hindus Should Attend Garba, Suggests Aadhaar Verification

**VHP States Only Hindus Should Be Allowed Entry to Garba Events During Navratri**

Mumbai: The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Saturday declared that only Hindus must be permitted entry to garba events held in observance of Navratri. The organization also advised event organizers to verify the identity of participants by checking their Aadhaar cards at entry points.

Maharashtra minister and senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule commented on the matter, stating that organizers have the right to set conditions for entry to their events, provided they have obtained the necessary police permissions. However, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar criticized the VHP’s stance, accusing the group of attempting to “set society on fire.”

Navratri is scheduled to be observed from September 22 to October 1 this year.

“Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess,” said VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair. “Those who do not believe in idol worship—apparently referring to Muslims—should not be allowed to participate. Only those who have faith in the rituals must be permitted.”

The VHP has issued advisories to garba event organizers, instructing them to check Aadhaar cards at entry, apply a ’tilak’ (a religious mark) on participants, and ensure that the participants perform puja before entering the event.

Furthermore, Nair added, “VHP and Bajrang Dal workers will monitor the events. Garba is a form of worship, not entertainment. Those who do not have faith in the goddess should not be part of it.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-vhp-advises-only-hindus-should-attend-garba-suggests-aadhaar-verification

Durga Puja 2025: CM Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates Pandals, Plans 3,000 Openings Ahead Of Mahalaya; VIDEO

Kolkata: Braving the rains, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday began inaugurating several Durga Puja pandals ahead of Mahalaya.

### CM to Inaugurate Durga Idols from Mahalaya

Speaking at the Tala Prattoy Durga Puja in north Kolkata, Mamata Banerjee announced that she will also inaugurate Durga idols starting from Mahalaya.

### 3,000 Pandal Inaugurations Planned

“I will be inaugurating three thousand puja pandals this year over the next four to five days, which includes several virtual inaugurations,” said the Chief Minister.

### Sreebhumi Sporting Club Puja Inaugurated

During the inauguration of the Sreebhumi Sporting Club Puja, conducted by State Fire and Emergency Service Minister Sujit Bose, Mamata once again criticized the central government for allegedly heckling Bengali-speaking migrant workers. She made these remarks without naming anyone specifically.

### Also Watch: Songs Composed by Mamata to Launch on Mahalaya

Notably, Mamata Banerjee has composed a few songs for Durga Puja, which are scheduled to be launched on Mahalaya.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/durga-puja-2025-cm-mamata-banerjee-inaugurates-pandals-plans-3000-openings-ahead-of-mahalaya-video