Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing criticism for comments made during a campaign rally in Rajasthan, which have been condemned as hate speech against Muslims. This has caused anger and fear among the Muslim minority, as Modi campaigns for a potential third term in India's six-week election process.

The article discusses the plight of civilians in Kashmir affected by explosive remnants of war, highlighting the case of Bhat, who lost his house and had family members injured due to uncleared explosives. Despite a compensation order from the State Human Rights Commission, Bhat's financial struggles continue. The article also touches on India's obligations under the UN Protocol on Explosive Remnants of War and contrasts the official stance of the Indian army with the ground reality in Kashmir, where civilians, especially children, are at risk from abandoned explosives. The case of Junaid Ahmed Dar, a 12-year-old killed by an explosive while playing, is also mentioned, underscoring the human cost of the conflict and the negligence in clearing explosive hazards.

The article discusses the impact of India's demonetisation policy on refugees, particularly the Rohingya and Afghan communities in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes created difficulties for refugees who lack legal status and access to banking. Fatima Bano, a Rohingya refugee, had to exchange her savings at a loss to buy medicine. Shahnawaz, an Afghan refugee, faces uncertainty about his savings for rent. Mohammed Akim, another Afghan refugee, worries about paying rent and school fees. The demonetisation has also affected the refugees' ability to work, as some construction projects have halted and some workers are being paid in demonetised notes, which they cannot use or have to exchange at a loss.

The article discusses the current political and social climate in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the threats to press freedom with the summoning of Fayaz Ahmad Kaloo and the arrest of Ghulam Jeelani. It reflects on the historical context of Kashmir's contentious status since 1947 and the diminishing autonomy under Indian rule, particularly with the BJP's desire to revoke Articles 370 and 35A. The BJP's re-election has seen a rise in violence and human rights violations, with international attention from the UN. The article also covers the BJP's electoral strategies and the potential for increased conflict due to policies that target Muslim groups and suppress dissent. Civil society groups and journalists express concerns over the government's actions, which are seen as attempts to force compliance and silence opposition. The BJP's stance is linked to the RSS's long-term agenda, and fears of demographic changes akin to Tibet are mentioned. The article concludes with the potential political maneuvers to alter the state's electoral map and the opposition's readiness to challenge such moves legally.

The article discusses a series of braid-chopping incidents that have been occurring in Kashmir and parts of North India. Over 200 alleged cases have been reported in Kashmir since September, causing widespread panic and protests. Educational institutions were closed and restrictions imposed in several areas. The attackers, whose identities remain unknown, target women who are alone, often using chemicals or physical force before cutting off their braids. The article includes accounts from victims Aijaz, Mameeta Najar, and Shakeela Mohammad, who describe their experiences of being attacked. The police's response to these incidents has been criticized, and no arrests have been made despite the growing number of attacks.

The article discusses the aftermath of the Indian government's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370. Abdul Hameed, a laborer from Kupwara district, found himself stranded in Srinagar amidst a sudden military lockdown, with communication lines cut off. The revocation has led to widespread fear, confusion, and anger among the residents, with many fearing an erosion of the region's Muslim identity and an increase in alienation. Protests and clashes with security forces have occurred, and there have been injuries from tear gas shells and pellets. The article also touches on the concerns of non-local laborers and the impact on local businesses. The situation remains tense, with the potential for long-term implications for the region's relationship with India.

The article discusses the pioneering efforts of Even Cargo, a startup in New Delhi, India, which employs female delivery drivers in a bid to challenge gender norms and create job opportunities for women in the logistics sector. Highlighting the story of Komal, a 20-year-old who joined the company to support her family, the article sheds light on the broader context of women's restricted access to jobs and public spaces in India. It references a World Bank report detailing the decline in female labor force participation and attributes this to societal norms. Even Cargo, founded by Yogesh Kumar in 2016, aims to disrupt the male-dominated delivery industry by hiring only women and providing them with self-defense training, although it currently limits deliveries to daytime and safer routes.

The article discusses the ongoing situation in Kashmir following the Indian government's decision to revoke the region's special status. Despite official claims of normalcy, Kashmir remains tense with a communication blockade affecting mobile and internet connections for over two weeks. Nisar Hamid Khan, Senior Vice President of The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce, highlights the severe economic and humanitarian crisis, with businesses unable to operate, children unable to attend school, and families running out of supplies. The lockdown has led to the detention of thousands, including politicians and businessmen, and has severely impacted various industries such as logistics, online retail, horticulture, and agriculture. The article also touches on the social impact, with many marriage functions being cancelled. Khan criticizes the government's handling of the situation, fearing long-term economic damage and accusing the government of downplaying the crisis as a minor law and order issue.

The article discusses the aftermath of the killing of Zakir Musa, a militant commander in Indian-administered Kashmir, by government forces. Musa was a controversial figure who had declared allegiance to al-Qaeda and aimed to establish Sharia law across India and Pakistan. His death sparked protests and a curfew in Kashmir. The article explores the historical context of the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan, Musa's rise to prominence after the death of Burhan Wani, and his split from Hizbul Mujahideen to form Ansar-Gazwatul-Hind. It also examines the impact of Musa's ideology on Kashmiri youth and the challenges of combating ideological extremism. The article includes perspectives from Musa's father, a local youth, and a PhD scholar from Kashmir University.

The article discusses the issue of caste discrimination in Kashmir's Muslim majority society, challenging the common belief that caste does not play a role in the region. It highlights the personal story of Fazil Jeelani, who faces difficulties in getting married due to his mother's adherence to caste hierarchies. The late sociologist Bashir Ahmed Dabla's work is cited, explaining the existence and significance of caste in Kashmiri society. The article also shares the experiences of Rubaiya Gilkar, who faced social ostracism due to her caste after marrying Aamir Wani. Wakar Amin, an assistant professor, provides insight into the historical context and current implications of caste in Kashmir. The article suggests that despite changes, caste discrimination remains a pervasive issue in the region.