A thread.🧵

In Dec 2019, millions of Indians, led by Muslim women, launched the most peaceful, powerful movement in decades against CAA. They braved cold, brutality, and hate for the Constitution.

Then came the 'Delhi Pogrom'.

This is the full story the nation tried to forget.

This thread is over 13,000 words, a rigorous, evidence-based timeline of the anti-CAA movement, culminating at Delhi pogrom.

Bookmark it, read it slowly, and share it widely.

We will smash Sanghi propaganda for good this time.

It took me more than a week to write with fact-checking help from @Grok

Let's begin.

#DelhiPogrom

Our Story starts in December, 2019.

December 4, 2019

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was cleared by the Union Cabinet for introduction in the parliament.

After the bill was cleared, violent protests erupted in Assam, especially in Guwahati, and other areas in the state. In Dispur, several thousands of protesters broke down police barricades to protest in front of the Assam Legislative Assembly building.

Demonstrations were held in Agartala. Six people died and fifty people were injured in the protests against the Act.

In Assam and parts of the Northeast, opposition was rooted in fear of influx from Bangladesh, regardless of religion.

The CAA was viewed as violating the Assam Accord (1985), which set March 24, 1971, as the cut-off for detecting/deporting illegal immigrants. Protesters argued it would legalize post-1971 Hindu Bengali migrants, swamping indigenous Assamese language/culture and resources.

Protests were led by ethnic Assamese organizations like the All-Assam Students' Union (AASU), Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), and Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad. Primarily Hindus.

So Indian Muslims didn’t even start the protest, it started in North East.

Protests turned violent in places (e.g., barricades broken in Dispur, arson, clashes), leading to curfews, army deployment, and police firing.

December 9, 2019
The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah.

December 10, 2019
The bill was passed with 311 members voting in favor and 80 against.

December 11, 2019
The bill was subsequently passed by the Rajya Sabha with 125 votes in favor and 105 votes against it.
Those parties that had voted in favor include BJP allies such as the Janata Dal (United) and the AIADMK and non-aligned parties such as the Biju Janata Dal.

December 12, 2019
After receiving assent from the President of India, the bill assumed the status of an act. The act would come into force on 10 January, chosen by the Government of India, and would be notified as such.

Dipanjal Das and Sam Stafford were killed in police firing during a protest in Guwahati. Akhil Gogoi was taken in preventive custody.

NO SIGNIFICANT MUSLIM PROTEST YET.

December 13, 2019
UK, US, France, Israel and Canada issued travel warnings for their citizens visiting India's north-east region, where the protests were mainly taking place, asking them to "exercise caution".

The Chief Ministers of the Indian states of West Bengal, Punjab, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh had stated that they would not implement the act.

December 14, 2019
Ishwar Nayak was killed in police firing at a protest in Assam.

Thousands of people protested against the law at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. People of all religion come together to protest against CAA/NRC.

December 15, 2019
A protester named Dipanjal Das (a 20-year-old college student) died on December 15 from injuries sustained in police firing the previous day (December 14) in Guwahati's Hatigaon area.

A group of artists in Guwahati staged a concert in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019.
The First Significant Muslim Protests happen at two places. Jamia Milia and Aligarh Muslim University. Which were completely Brutalized by the Police.

Jamia Millia Islamia: Students marched peacefully from campus toward Parliament to protest the CAA's passage. Police stopped the march near Holy Family Hospital, leading to clashes.

In the evening (7–8 p.m.), Delhi Police forcefully entered the campus without permission from university authorities.

They fired tear gas shells inside buildings, including the Dr. Zakir Husain Library (Old Reading Hall), where non-protesting students were studying for exams.

Viral CCTV footage later showed police beating students hiding under tables, breaking doors, and vandalizing the library.

Injuries: Over 200 students injured (some with fractures, head injuries).
Detentions: Around 100 students detained (many released later).

Aligarh Muslim University: Peaceful Protests began outside the university gate in the afternoon.

In the evening, police entered the campus and used tear gas and lathi-charge. Students reported severe brutality, including in hostels.

Injuries: At least 100 students injured; several lost fingers due to tear gas canister explosions.
Internet shutdown imposed in Aligarh district.

December 16, 2019
This day marked widespread peaceful protests, political responses, and the beginning of iconic sit-ins, with some localized tensions.

Lucknow (Nadwa College): On December 16, around 300 students planned a peaceful march against CAA in solidarity with AMU/Jamia.
Police locked the gates, prevented them from exiting, and a brief clash ensued. 15–20 students injured; 30 charged (including serious sections like attempt to murder). Nadwa College closed till January 5 as a result.

Priyanka Gandhi at India Gate: Yes, on December 16, she led a silent protest/dharna with 300 Congress workers in solidarity with Jamia students.

AASU Satyagraha in Assam: Yes, AASU's three-day mass satyagraha (non-violent civil disobedience) across Assam ran from December 16–18 (detentions occurred, but protesters released later).

West Bengal: Thousands joined a massive rally led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC in Kolkata (from Red Road to Jorasanko Thakurbari). She vowed not to implement CAA/NRC in Bengal.

Shaheen Bagh Sit-In Begins: Late evening December 15/early December 16, local Muslim women (inspired by Jamia police action) started the indefinite blockade at Shaheen Bagh in Delhi.
This became the most iconic, longest-running protest site (lasting until March 2020).

Protests spread to cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Internet suspensions continued in parts of Assam and UP.

The day focused on peaceful defiance and political mobilization amid heavy restrictions (e.g., Section 144 in many areas).

December 17, 2019
Seelampur Clashes (Delhi)
Violent clashes broke out in Northeast Delhi's Seelampur (and adjoining Jafrabad) area starting around noon–2 p.m.

The protest began peacefully against the CAA but turned violent when police stopped marchers and lathi charged.

Protesters pelted stones; police responded with tear gas, batons, and lathi-charge.

Damage included several motorcycles torched, buses and private vehicles vandalized (windows broken), and a police booth affected (though reports vary on whether a full police station was set on fire—most say a booth/post was damaged).

Several metro stations closed (e.g., Seelampur, Welcome, Jaffrabad, Maujpur-Babarpur, others temporarily).

Two FIRs registered; tension lingered into the evening.
This was the first major violent flare-up in Delhi since the Jamia incidents, in a Muslim-majority area.

Kerala Hartal: A dawn-to-dusk hartal (shutdown) was observed across Kerala, called by a coalition of over 30 organizations. It protested the CAA and police brutality against students (e.g., Jamia/AMU).
Impact varied: Stronger in northern Kerala (Malabar region, e.g., Kannur, Kozhikode roads deserted); partial elsewhere. Over 200–233 preventive arrests; no major deaths reported.

Opposition Leaders Meet President: A multi-party delegation (led by Sonia Gandhi, including Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, D. Raja, and others) met President Ram Nath Kovind to demand CAA withdrawal and probe into police actions.

Other Protests: Peaceful demonstrations continued in cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru; some universities held solidarity events.

International Echoes: Early overseas solidarity protests began emerging (e.g., small gatherings in the US/UK), building toward larger ones soon after.

No deaths were reported on December 17.

Overall, December 17 showed the movement spreading with a mix of violence (Seelampur) and organized shutdowns (Kerala), amid growing political pressure.

December 18, 2019
The Supreme Court (bench headed by Chief Justice S.A. Bobde) heard around 60 petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA.
The court refused to stay (halt) the implementation of the Act. It issued notices to the Central Government, seeking a response within four weeks.
The next hearing was fixed for January 22, 2020.
Additionally, the court suggested the government consider publicizing the aims, objectives, and benefits of the CAA (e.g., via audio-visual media) to counter misinformation and fake news circulating about it.
This was the first major judicial engagement with the challenges to the law.

International Academics' Statement: A global statement condemning the "recent police action and brutalization of students at Jamia Millia Islamia University and Aligarh Muslim University" began circulating widely and gaining signatures.

Signatories included prominent academics like Noam Chomsky, Judith Butler, Romila Thapar, and others from institutions worldwide.

Protests Continued Peacefully in Many Places: Despite restrictions, demonstrations occurred in cities like Chennai, Pune, and others. Left parties announced nationwide protests for the next day (December 19).
Political Responses: A Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) delegation met President Ram Nath Kovind, urging withdrawal of CAA and a judicial probe into police actions at Jamia/AMU.

No Major Violence Reported This Day: The focus shifted somewhat to legal and international condemnation, following the Seelampur clashes on December 17.

Overall, December 18 was a relatively calmer day on the streets compared to surrounding dates, with attention turning to the judiciary and global solidarity.

December 19, 2019
This day saw nationwide defiance of prohibitory orders, heavy police crackdowns, the first protest-related deaths, massive detentions, and significant disruptions.

Deaths: 3 protesters killed — 2 in Mangaluru (Jaleel Kudroli, 49, and Nausheen Bengre, 23, from police firing during clashes near a police station) and 1 in Lucknow (Mohammed Wakeel, 24–32, from alleged gunshot injury amid violence/arson).

Bans and Internet Shutdowns: Section 144 imposed across Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka (including Bengaluru/Mangaluru), and parts of Delhi (under central control). Mobile internet suspended in parts of Delhi (briefly), Bengaluru, Dakshina Kannada (Mangaluru), and multiple UP districts (Lucknow till noon December 21; also, Sambhal, Aligarh, Mau, Ghaziabad, Azamgarh, and others).

Protests Defying Bans: Peaceful gatherings at Delhi's Red Fort (prevented/detained) and Bengaluru (Town Hall area).

Large Protests: Tens of thousands in Hyderabad, Patna, Chandigarh, Kolkata (thousands at Moulali, peaceful), and other cities. Social media calls for peaceful action widespread.

Detentions in Delhi: Around 1,200–1,500 protesters detained (including Umar Khalid, Yogendra Yadav, Sitaram Yechury near Red Fort).

Flight Disruptions: At least 700 flights delayed and 20+ cancelled (mainly IndiGo: 19 cancelled, others delayed due to crew/passengers stuck on NH-8/Gurugram-Delhi highway from road closures).

Bengaluru Detentions: Historian Ramchandra Guha (detained at Town Hall while holding a poster/protesting peacefully) + several professors/activists; police reported 200–1,000 detentions citywide.

Mangaluru Curfew and Hospital Incident: Curfew imposed till December 20; allegations police forced entry into Highland Hospital (where victims were taken) and assaulted staff/injured.

UNICEF Statement: Issued a statement urging respect for children's rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and protest under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Ahmedabad Clash: Violent in Shah-e-Alam Roza area (2,000 protesters); police used tear gas against stone-pelting.

Hyderabad Detentions: 90 protesters, including 50 University of Hyderabad students.

Mumbai Protest: The massive anti-CAA protest at August Kranti Maidan drew thousands (Quint estimate about a Lakh people), with Bollywood celebrities like Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Kabir Khan, Swara Bhasker, and others joining. It was peaceful and one of the largest single gatherings that day.

Nationwide Scale — Protests in over 50 cities across 24 states/UTs; Left parties called for coordinated action.

Political Delegations — Opposition leaders continued pressing President/Government.

No Major Violence in Some Areas — Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad largely peaceful despite scale.

December 20, 2019
This was one of the deadliest and most intense days of the early anti-CAA protests, with widespread violence, police crackdowns, and defiance across India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh (UP).

Protests coincided with Friday (Jumma) prayers, leading to large gatherings at mosques.
Nationwide, Section 144 bans on gatherings were imposed in many areas (especially BJP-ruled states like UP and Karnataka), with internet/mobile services suspended in multiple districts.

Despite this, demonstrations erupted in over 20 cities, resulting in hundreds of arrests, and allegations of severe police brutality. Total protest-related deaths reached at least 11 by day's end (mostly in UP).

Deaths in Uttar Pradesh:
At least 6 protesters killed in separate police firing incidents amid clashes during anti-CAA demonstrations (one each in Meerut, Sambhal, Kanpur, and Firozabad; two in Bijnor). UP's Director General of Police, OP Singh, denied police fired bullets, claiming no fatalities from police action and attributing deaths to "cross-firing" or protester violence.

This brought the total UP death toll to 9 (including earlier incidents). Police shot tear gas, lathi-charges, and reportedly live ammunition.

Widespread Police Brutality in Uttar Pradesh: Reports documented excessive force, arbitrary detentions, and targeted raids, primarily against Muslim-majority areas.

In Muzaffarnagar, police allegedly stormed a madrassa (Islamic seminary) after Friday prayers, ransacked it, beat residents, broke doors, confiscated phones and money, and detained cleric Asad Raza along with 35 students (15 under 18) without explanation.

In Lucknow, one death occurred; police clashed with crowds.

In Varanasi, 69 people (including BHU students and activists) were arrested during a peaceful protest and charged under serious IPC sections (147/148/149/188/332/353/341 and 7 CLA).

Police issued notices to over 3,000 people statewide warning against protesting.

Internet services were suspended in Lucknow (till noon Dec 21), Sambhal, Aligarh, Mau, Ghaziabad, Azamgarh, and other districts to curb mobilization.
Human rights groups like HRW and Amnesty later alleged systematic bias, with police aiding or ignoring mobs in some cases.

Priyanka Gandhi attempted to visit victims' families in Meerut but was stopped by police en route.

Delhi Protests and Jama Masjid March: Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad led a massive protest at Jama Masjid after Friday prayers, defying police bans. Thousands gathered inside and on the mosque steps, waving Indian flags and chanting anti-CAA slogans.

Azad was briefly detained during a scuffle but escaped, reappearing with a copy of the Constitution amid cheers; police searched for him afterward but he remained at large.

Police imposed Section 144, shut 14 metro stations (including near HQ), and suspended mobile/internet services in parts of the city. Hundreds were detained citywide.

In Jafrabad, locals offered tea and roses to police in a gesture of peace.

Congress leaders like Priyanka Gandhi joined a protest at India Gate.

Allegations surfaced of police beating students (including minors) in the cold.

Mangaluru (Karnataka) Aftermath: Curfew extended till December 20 following previous day's deaths; police allegedly forced entry into Highland Hospital (where victims were treated) and assaulted staff/injured.

Pune: Over 10,000 marched peacefully against CAA.
Mumbai: 5,000+ gathered; a pro-CAA event also held.
Chennai: 600 booked for unlawful assembly, including actor Siddharth, musician TM Krishna, and VCK leader Thirumavalavan.

Hyderabad: 90+ detained, including 50 University of Hyderabad students.
Patna (Bihar): 200+ detained.
Bengaluru: Hundreds detained, including historian Ramchandra Guha.
Kolkata: Thousands at Moulali protested peacefully.

Shaheen Bagh (Delhi): Ongoing sit-in intensified with locals blocking roads and setting up stages.
Telangana: Women HRDs Arundhati Dhurru, Meera Sangamitra, and Madhavi arrested while protesting.
Jharkhand: Protests in Ranchi and Jamshedpur against CAA's impact on tribals.
Disruptions and International Response: In Delhi, road closures caused 700+ flight delays and 20+ cancellations.
UNICEF urged respect for children's protest rights.
Amnesty India condemned the crackdown.

December 21, 2019

Chandrashekhar Azad's arrest: He was arrested early on December 21 (after evading police on December 20 during/after the Jama Masjid protest). Along with 30 others; three FIRs registered for violence on December 20 (at Delhi Gate, Daryaganj, and Seemapuri areas).

Peaceful protests in West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Delhi: Peaceful rallies in these states/regions, including Delhi (smaller gatherings despite bans).

All-woman protest in Assam: An all-woman protest organized across Assam on December 21.
Spontaneous 1.5 km march in Kolkata: Partial—protests/rallies occurred (including student-led ones), but no specific confirmation of a single "1.5 km spontaneous march"; Kolkata saw ongoing demonstrations.

Clashes near Chennai Central: CPI-M/Left activists attempted rail roko (train blockade) at MGR Chennai Central station; foiled by police with some scuffles, but no major clashes reported.

RJD protests in Patna/Bihar: RJD-called Bihar bandh on December 21 disrupted rail/road traffic (supporters blocked stations, roads); largely enforced in Patna and other towns. RJD's statewide shutdown widely observed; rail/road blockades, preventive arrests (1,550 reported).

Amir Hanzla death: He (18-year-old) went missing during RJD bandh/protests on December 21 in Phulwari Sharif (Patna); body found decomposed on December 31. Killed (beaten) allegedly by fringe Hindutva group members.

Internet/Restrictions: Continued suspensions in UP districts and parts of other states.
Other Protests: Smaller defiance in banned areas; focus on solidarity post-December 20 violence.
Overall, a transitional day: arrests after December 20 peak, peaceful actions elsewhere, and pro-CAA academic pushback.

December 22, 2019
Ashok Gehlot's Rally: Rajasthan CM led the massive "Samvidhan Bachao Rally" (peaceful march) in Jaipur against CAA/NRC. Attendance estimates: 3 lakh (300,000) per police and media reports (e.g., India Today, Firstpost). Gehlot also stated Rajasthan would not implement CAA/NRC.

Karnataka Compensation: CM B.S. Yediyurappa announced ₹10 lakh ex-gratia each to families of the two Mangaluru victims (killed December 19). It was later put on hold/withheld (around December 25–26) pending inquiry into their involvement in violence.

Uttar Pradesh Panel: UP government began the process to assess public property damage from protests and recover losses by seizing/alienating alleged protesters' properties (following CM Yogi Adityanath's statements). This led to controversial notices/hoardings in coming days.
Curfew relaxed/extended in parts of Mangaluru.

Pro-CAA academic statement circulated (counter to anti-CAA ones).
Ongoing internet suspensions in UP districts.
Prime Minister Modi addressed a rally in Delhi (Ramlila Maidan), defending CAA and denying national NRC discussions.
No major new violence or large-scale protests reported that day.

December 23, 2019

Bangalore Protest: Large peaceful anti-CAA protest in Bengaluru (at Town Hall/Mysore Bank Circle area). Crowd estimates: 50,000–80,000 (police: lower end; organizers/media: up to 80,000). It concluded peacefully despite Section 144.

Dibrugarh Arrests: Assam Police arrested 55 people in Dibrugarh district for alleged involvement in violence/arson during earlier anti-CAA protests (part of ongoing crackdown in the Northeast).

Assault on Migrant Labourers: Three migrant workers from West Bengal were assaulted in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh by unidentified persons who accused them of supporting anti-CAA protests. They were beaten and forced to chant "Jai Shri Ram."

FIR against Amanatullah Khan: Delhi Police registered FIR against AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan (Okhla) for allegedly sharing an "objectionable" social media post related to CAA protests.

Rampur Arrests: 31 people arrested in Rampur, UP, for violence during anti-CAA protests (part of statewide action; UP had arrested thousands by this point).
Ongoing Crackdown in UP: More arrests statewide; property damage assessment/recovery process advanced (hoardings with protester photos began appearing soon after).

Northeast Curfews Relaxed: Partial relaxation in Assam after weeks of unrest.

No Major New Violence: Day passed largely peacefully elsewhere; protests winding down toward Christmas lull.

December 24, 2019

NPR Approval and Funding: The Union Cabinet approved the updation of the National Population Register (NPR) during the 2021 Census cycle and allocated ₹3,941 crore. This reignited fears that NPR was a precursor to NRC, fuelling protests.

German Student Deportation: Jakob Lindenthal, a 22-year-old German exchange student at IIT Madras, was deported (deported on December 24 or shortly after) for participating in anti-CAA protests (he held placards at a Chennai rally). FRRO revoked his visa for "political activity."

Police Vandalism Reports in UP: Multiple eyewitness accounts, videos, and reports (from areas like Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Bijnor, and others) alleged police vandalizing homes/shops/vehicles, beating residents (including women/children), and falsely accusing/arresting locals for protest-related damage during raids. Human rights groups later documented this as part of excessive force.

Aligarh Muslim University Candle March: Around 1,000–1,200 AMU students/alumni organized a peaceful candlelight vigil/march on campus against CAA/police brutality. Police booked them under Section 144 violations and other sections; several detained briefly.

Ongoing Restrictions: Internet remained suspended in parts of UP; preventive arrests continued.
Smaller Protests: Scattered peaceful demonstrations (e.g., candle marches in Delhi, Chennai); no major violence reported.

December 26–28, 2019

26 December
Sambhal notices: District administration issued notices to 26 people for alleged property damage during protests, asking them to explain or pay. Assessed damage: Reports vary slightly (~₹11–15 lakh). This was part of statewide actions (e.g., similar in Rampur, Bijnor).

27 December
Delhi detentions: 357 protesters (including 75 women) detained by Delhi Police near UP Bhawan during a protest against CAA and alleged UP police atrocities. They were later released.

28 December
Congress foundation day (135th): Party organized "Save Bharat-Save Constitution" (or "Save India-Save Constitution") flag marches nationwide, including a prominent one in Mumbai. Similar events held in many states/cities.

Meerut penalty demand: Administration demanded recovery of 40 lakh total for December 20 damages, with 25,000 each from over 140 people.

UP continued posting hoardings/photos of "identified rioters" and expanding recovery notices statewide.
No major fresh violence reported.

December 29–31, 2019
29 December
Shaheen Bagh (ongoing since Dec 15, led mainly by Muslim housewives, elderly women, and children) gained further mainstream/international spotlight for resilience amid harsh winter. Delhi recorded extreme cold that month (one of the coldest Decembers on record; lows around 2–4°C on some nights, though the absolute "second coldest night in 100 years" often referenced for Dec 31 midnight).

Kolkata Rainbow Pride Walk: LGBTQ+ activists marched, prominently protesting CAA/NRC alongside pride issues.

31 December
Anti-CAA protests marked New Year's Eve in multiple cities (Delhi/Shaheen Bagh—national anthem sung at midnight; Hyderabad; Bhubaneswar; Mumbai; Kolkata). Peaceful defiance despite cold/restrictions.
Shaheen Bagh's New Year anthem sing-along became iconic.

No major new violence; focus on endurance and symbolism.

CONT++ Summary of December 2019 Anti-CAA Protests:

December 2019 marked the explosive beginning of one of India's largest and longest mass movements since Independence. Triggered by the Citizenship Amendment Act (passed December 11–12), the protests were overwhelmingly peaceful, secular, and diverse, but met with severe state repression.

Key themes and pointers:

1. Overwhelmingly Peaceful and Resilient Muslim-Led Resistance:
A. Muslim communities, especially women and students, led the movement with remarkable discipline and non-violence.
B. Iconic sit-ins like Shaheen Bagh (started Dec 15–16) became global symbols: Housewives, elderly women, and children braving Delhi's bitter cold for an indefinite dharna.
C. Similar women-led protests emerged across India (e.g., Kolkata's Park Circus Maidan, Allahabad's Mansoor Ali Khan Park, Chennai's Old Washermanpet).

2. Massive and Disproportionate Police Brutality
A. Brutal crackdowns on university campuses: Jamia Millia Islamia (Dec 15) and Aligarh Muslim University saw police enter hostels/libraries, fire tear gas indoors, and beat students.
B. In Uttar Pradesh (especially Dec 19–20), at least 19–22 protesters killed (mostly Muslims) in police firing; allegations of police vandalizing homes, shops, and vehicles in Muslim neighborhoods, arbitrary raids on madrassas, and custodial violence.
C. Women and children frequently targeted: reports of lathi-charges on all-women protests and minors detained/beaten.

3. Isolated Incidents of Provocation and Sanghi Militant Involvement:
A. While protests remained largely peaceful, isolated clashes occurred (e.g., Seelampur Dec 17, Mangaluru Dec 19).
B. Reports of fringe Hindutva militant groups harassing protesters (e.g., assaulting migrant workers in Shimla for alleged participation, forcing "Jai Shri Ram" chants).
C. Some violence attributed to infiltrators or agent provocateurs attempting to discredit the movement.

4. Muslim Women Emerge as the Face of Resistance:
A. The image of hijab-clad women holding the Indian Constitution and Tricolour became the defining visual of the movement.
B. Shaheen Bagh's women-led blockade inspired dozens of similar "Shaheen Baghs" nationwide, redefining public protest as maternal, constitutional, and unbreakable.

5. Global Academic and Intellectual Solidarity:
A. Hundreds to thousands of scholars worldwide (including Noam Chomsky, Judith Butler) issued statements condemning police brutality at Jamia/AMU and the discriminatory nature of CAA.
B. Overseas solidarity protests began in London, New York, Toronto, and elsewhere.

6. Deportation of Foreign Students and Participants
A. The government revoked visas and deported at least two foreign students for participating in protests:
Jakob Lindenthal (German exchange student at IIT Madras) deported around December 24 for holding placards at a Chennai rally.
A Bangladeshi student at AMU faced similar action.

B. This signaled an attempt to intimidate and suppress even international solidarity with the movement.

7. Secular and Interfaith Character:
A. Protests drew Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, Adivasis, and LGBTQ+ communities (e.g., Kolkata Pride Walk incorporated anti-CAA slogans).
B. Brotherhood Slogans and readings from the Preamble emphasized constitutional unity.

8. Creative and Cultural Forms of Protest
A. Poetry, art, music, and street theatre flourished: Guwahati concerts, Kolkata marches with songs, Delhi's nightly poetry sessions at Shaheen Bagh.

9. Government Crackdown and Intimidation Tactics
A. Internet shutdowns in multiple states/districts.
B. Thousands detained/arrested (often preventively).
C. In UP, controversial property seizure notices and public hoardings naming alleged "rioters."

10. Political Polarization
A. Opposition parties (Congress, Left, regional) joined or supported protests.
B. BJP countered with pro-CAA rallies and academic statements defending the law.

December 2019 laid the foundation for a movement that would continue for months, with Muslim women at its heart and the Constitution as its scripture. Despite severe repression including deportations of foreign supporters, the protests remained predominantly peaceful and resilient, earning global admiration.

But December also leads to Challenges in front of BJP and Modi's in Resolving the Anti-CAA Protests by End of December 2019:

The anti-CAA movement, which exploded in December, defied expectations of quick suppression through state machinery. It remained predominantly peaceful, women-led, and constitutionally framed, undermining the BJP's narrative of "jihadi", "urban Naxals" or "anti-national" elements.

By late December, the protests had not fizzled out despite crackdowns, creating massive problems for BJP and setting the stage for continued resistance into 2020 until Delhi Pogrom.

The Problems for the BJP:

1. State Oppression Fails to Quell the Movement
By the end of December, despite widespread arrests (thousands nationwide), internet shutdowns (in UP, Assam, etc.), and police brutality (e.g., 22+ deaths in UP alone), the protests showed no signs of abating. BJP realized brute force wasn't working, leading to a shift toward polarization tactics for the upcoming Delhi elections.

2. Attempt to Weaponize Shaheen Bagh for Electoral Gain Backfires
BJP leaders (e.g., Amit Shah, Kapil Mishra) portrayed Shaheen Bagh as "Muslim arrogance" and a security threat to scare Hindu voters, but this intensified in January 2020 (e.g., "current will be sent to Shaheen Bagh" threats). It didn't work, AAP won a landslide in February 2020, as voters prioritized local issues over communal fear-mongering.

3. Muslims' Non-Violence Undermines Sanghi Propaganda
The movement's commitment to Gandhian non-violence (e.g., reading the Preamble, singing the national anthem) directly countered stereotypes of Muslims as "violent." Isolated clashes (e.g., Seelampur, Mangaluru) were often blamed on police provocation or infiltrators, not protesters.

4. Proliferation of "Mini Shaheen Baghs" Nationwide
By late December/early January, over 100 similar women-led sit-ins ("Shaheen Baghs") sprouted in cities like Kolkata (Park Circus), Mumbai (Mumbra), Lucknow (Clock Tower), and smaller towns. This decentralized the movement, making it harder to dismantle.

5. Demands from Hardliners for Violent Suppression
RSS-BJP affiliates and online Sanghi networks called for aggressive action (e.g., "clear the roads" demands). This pressure manifested in later events like the JNU attack (January 5, 2020) by ABVP-linked mobs.

6. International Scrutiny and Diplomatic Pressure
Global media (BBC, NYT) and bodies like the UN, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch condemned the crackdowns, highlighting police bias and CAA's discriminatory nature. This embarrassed the Modi government, prompting defensive responses (e.g., denying NRC links).

7. BJP's Counter-Narrative and Pro-CAA Campaigns
To counter the movement, BJP organized pro-CAA rallies and released supportive statements from academics/intellectuals (e.g., December 21 statement by 1,100 signatories). They also approved NPR updation (December 24) despite protests, signaling defiance.

8. Economic and Social Disruptions Highlighting Movement's Impact
Protests caused widespread shutdowns (bandhs in Bihar, hartals in Kerala) and disruptions (e.g., flight delays, metro closures in Delhi), forcing the government to recognize the economic toll while failing to isolate protesters as "disruptors."

9. Interfaith Solidarity Strengthens the Movement
Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and others joined (e.g., gurudwaras providing langar at Shaheen Bagh), diluting BJP's attempts to frame it as "Muslim-only." This unity challenged the Sanghi divide-and-rule strategy.

10. Internal BJP Tensions and Miscalculations
Modi and Shah's speeches (e.g., Modi's December 22 Ramlila Maidan address defending CAA) aimed to rally the base but alienated moderates. The deportation of foreign students (e.g., German at IIT Madras on December 24) for protesting signaled paranoia, further damaging India's image.

The movement's resilience, non-violence, and symbolism (especially Muslim women) not only survived but grew, foreshadowing electoral setbacks like the Delhi polls. If anything, these points underscore how the protests evolved from reactive outrage to a sustained constitutional resistance.

Now let’s Move to January, 2020.

2020

January 1–5, 2020

1 January
Kochi rally: Organised by Muslim organisations (e.g., Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama, IUML, and others) under the banner "Samvidhan Samrakshan Samiti." 5 Lakh people joined from all religions but majority of them were Muslims. The rally caused massive traffic standstill across Kochi. One of the largest single-day anti-CAA gatherings.

3 January
UP Police admission/release: UP Police had to admit in court, in specific cases (e.g., Meerut), courts/police released four minors (and others) due to lack of evidence or age verification. This followed mounting criticism of arbitrary detentions post-December violence.

4 January
Hyderabad "Million March": Over 5 lakh attended the massive peaceful march from Mir Alam Tank to Darussalam against CAA/NRC/Census linkage. Organised by United Muslim Action Committee.
Bengaluru rally: Thousands (estimates 20,000–30,000) marched from Town Hall/Mysore Bank Circle, accusing Modi government of communal division and distracting from economic issues (slowdown, unemployment).

5 January
JNU Attack: Around 7–8 p.m., a masked mob (widely alleged to be ABVP-affiliated; police later charged some ABVP members) armed with rods, sticks, acid, and stones entered JNU campus, attacked students/teachers in hostels (Sabarmati, Periyar), vandalised property, and injured over 40 (including JNUSU president Aishe Ghosh, who was bleeding profusely).

Viral images featured Komal Sharma (masked woman with stick), whose identification sparked national outrage and symbolized alleged Sanghi orchestration of violence to intimidate anti-CAA activists. Police inaction during the hours-long rampage fueled accusations of complicity.

Described as retaliation for student activism against CAA; police accused of inaction (standing by while mob operated for hours). ABVP denied involvement, claiming counter-attack.

January 5 marked a turning point with the first major "uniformed mob" violence on a campus, escalating fears of state-backed intimidation.

Protests remained peaceful overall; Shaheen Bagh and mini-sites gained momentum. BJP intensified pro-CAA campaigns ahead of Delhi polls.

January 6–9, 2020

6 January
Malegaon all-women rally: Around 50,000-70,000 women marched peacefully in Malegaon, Maharashtra, against CAA/NRC. Organised by local Muslim organisations; one of the largest women-only anti-CAA events.

7 January
Park Circus sit-in begins: Women in Kolkata started an indefinite dharna at Park Circus Maidan (Ground No. 7), inspired by Shaheen Bagh. It became Kolkata's most prominent "mini Shaheen Bagh," lasting months with nightly cultural events.

8 January
PM Modi cancels Assam visit: Modi postponed his scheduled trip to Assam amid massive planned protests by AASU and 30+ organisations.
Protests in Assam: Thousands rallied in Dibrugarh, Guwahati, and other towns against CAA, demanding its rollback.

January 9
JNU students' march: Hundreds of JNU students attempted to march to Rashtrapati Bhavan in solidarity post-January 5 attack. Police stopped them near Janpath; 100 detained briefly (later released).

Supreme Court (CJI) remark: Chief Justice S.A. Bobde dismissed a plea seeking declaration of CAA as constitutionally valid, stating there is a "presumption of constitutionality" and the matter was already pending in multiple petitions.

Assam protests: AASU, AJYCP, KMSS, and 30+ groups/artists held large rallies in Guwahati, demanding a "corruption-free, infiltration-free, terrorism-free, pollution-free Assam" and rejection of CAA/NRC.
Ongoing Women-Led Expansion: More "Shaheen Bagh-style" sit-ins began (e.g., in Lucknow's Ghantaghar, Chennai).
Delhi Poll Campaign Heating Up: BJP intensified communal rhetoric (e.g., Amit Shah's speeches framing protests as "anti-national").
No Major Violence: Protests remained peaceful; focus on endurance and legal challenges.

January 10–13, 2020

10 January
CAA comes into force: Official gazette notification made the Act effective.
Delhi High Court on Shaheen Bagh: HC dismissed a PIL seeking removal of protesters, observing that the right to protest is fundamental and the matter falls under police jurisdiction.

11 January
PM Modi in Kolkata: Two-day visit; hundreds protested with black flags at airport and elsewhere.
Esplanade/Dorina Crossing protest: Left parties, SFI, and student unions held demonstrations; vowed continuation till Modi left (Sunday).

Hyderabad Tiranga Rally: Thousands marched peacefully waving Tricolour; reports/videos of police lathi-charge/caning on protesters.

Tripura protest: Pradyot Debbarma led massive indigenous rally in Agartala (largest to date); demanded no CAA beneficiaries settle in Tripura, citing threats to tribal identity.

12 January
Kolkata detentions: Protesters outside Modi’s event venue detained.

Jogeshwari (Mumbai) protest: Thousands participated; poignant banners referencing 2002 Gujarat riots ("My Documents Burned in 2002"), "No CAA, Boycott NRC," "Save Constitution."

Congress statement: Party demanded CAA withdrawal and halt to NPR updation, calling NPR a "disguised NRC."

13 January
Parliamentary panel criticism: Standing Committee on Home Affairs (chaired by Anand Sharma) questioned Delhi Police Commissioner over Jamia (Dec 15) and JNU (Jan 5) violence; directed police to avoid "harsh" actions on students.

20 opposition parties meeting: Hosted by Congress in Delhi; joint statement demanded CAA revocation and urged CMs refusing NRC to also stop NPR (as its foundation). Attended by TMC, DMK, Left, SP, RJD, etc.

Jamia student protest: Students demonstrated outside VC Najma Akhtar's office demanding exam postponement, FIR against Delhi Police, and safety assurances. VC announced FIR filing on January 14.

More women-led sit-ins proliferated (e.g., new ones in Patna, Allahabad).
Delhi Election Campaign: BJP's communal rhetoric ramped up (e.g., Later, Anurag Thakur's speeches); AAP countered with local governance focus.
No Major Violence: Protests largely peaceful; emphasis on legal/political pressure.

January 14–17, 2020

14 January
Kerala challenges CAA in Supreme Court: Kerala became the first state to file a suit under Article 131 (original jurisdiction for state vs. Centre disputes), arguing CAA violated Articles 14, 21, and 25 (equality, life/liberty, religion).

Mani Shankar Aiyar at Shaheen Bagh: Senior Congress leader joined protesters, spoke in solidarity.

Prayagraj (Allahabad) sit-in: 5,000 women began indefinite dharna at Mansoor Ali Khan Park (later called "Mini Shaheen Bagh").

Mumbai students at Wankhede: Group of students wore T-shirts with "No NPR, No NRC, No CAA" during India vs Australia ODI; peaceful protest inside stadium.

Gujarat kite flying: Makar Sankranti saw kites with both pro-CAA (BJP slogans) and anti-CAA messages in Ahmedabad and other cities.

15 January
Mangalore rally: Massive peaceful protest (2 lakh+ estimates); hundreds arrived by boats waving Tricolour. Speeches by Harsh Mander and Kannan Gopinathan; ended with national anthem.

Women sit-ins: New/ongoing dharnas at Patna (Sabzibagh), Kolkata (Park Circus), Prayagraj (Roshan Bagh), Kanpur (Chaman Ganj), Gaya (Shanti Bagh), alongside Shaheen Bagh.

Gujarat HC petition: PIL argued police denied permission for anti-CAA protests while approving 62 pro-CAA events. HC directed police to decide "properly" on applications.

Chandrashekhar Azad bail: Delhi court granted bail with conditions (e.g., not leave country, not participate in Delhi protests till elections).

AMU exams postponed: University indefinitely postponed semester exams due to ongoing protests and trauma from December violence.

16 January
Chennai protest ban: Police imposed 15-day ban on gatherings; detained five women and one disabled man for defying it with a small demonstration.

January 18–21, 2020

18 January

Uttar Pradesh police cracked down on protesters at Lucknow's Clock Tower (Ghantaghar) sit-in: seized blankets, food, utensils in cold weather; heavy deployment amid ongoing dharna (started January 17).

19 January
Delhi candlelight march: Hundreds marched from Jamia Millia Islamia gate to Shaheen Bagh holding lighted candles in solidarity.

Berlin protest: Over 200 Indian diaspora members marched from Brandenburg Gate to Indian Embassy against CAA/NRC and JNU attack.

Pune all-women protest: Ongoing (started January 11 outside Konark Mall in Kondhwa, organised by Kul Jamaat-e-Tanzeem); reached ninth day with 500–600 participants.

20 January
UK Labour MPs meeting: Several Labour MPs (e.g., Stephen Timms, Rupa Huq, Claudia Webbe, Pat McFadden) discussed CAA concerns in House of Commons (organised by South Asia Solidarity Group and Ambedkar International Mission); expressed worry over human rights and Muslim disenfranchisement; pledged Early Day Motion.

21 January
Varun Grover's iconic poem: Lyricist Varun Grover posted video of "Hum kagaz nahin dikhayenge" (We will not show our papers) a defiant anthem of civil disobedience against CAA/NRC document demands. It went viral rapidly, becoming a core chant at Shaheen Bagh and nationwide sit-ins.

Kalaburagi (Karnataka) rally: Thousands (50,000–75,000) protested peacefully against CAA.

Etawah (UP) police violence: Video showed police chasing and lathi-charging women protesters attempting to disperse sit-in (night of January 21–22).

Khureji Khas (Delhi) creative protest: Over 100 women released 10,000 black balloons with "No CAA NPR NRC" messages.

Lucknow police action: Registered cases against 160 women for violating assembly ban at Clock Tower sit-in.

Amit Shah pro-CAA rally: Despite Section 144 ban on gatherings, administration allowed Home Minister Amit Shah to address large pro-CAA public meeting in Lucknow; Shah stated protesters could continue but CAA would not be revoked.

Northeast students' call: Various student associations announced complete shutdown of colleges and universities across Northeast on January 22 (day of SC hearing on CAA petitions), demanding Act declared unconstitutional.

Cultural Momentum: "Hum kagaz nahin dikhayenge" began dominating chants from this point.
Delhi Election Polarization: BJP's communal speeches ramping up.
Peaceful Nature: All protests largely non-violent; focus on symbolism (balloons, flags).

22 January
Thousands of students from 9 universities in North-East India boycotted classes and joined protest marches in the states of Assam, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh.

A 5-kilometre-long procession against the CAA was led by CM Mamata Banerjee in Darjeeling, West Bengal; participants wore ethnic dresses, played musical instruments, chanted anti-CAA slogans, and carried banners and posters.

Women continued sit-in protests for the third day at the Haj House near Kadru Over Bridge in Ranchi, Jharkhand (this sit-in began on January 19 and was inspired by Shaheen Bagh).

143 CAA-related petitions were heard in the Supreme Court; the court refused to stay the CAA, gave notice to the government, allowed four weeks to respond for the next hearing in February, and segregated the cases of Assam and Tripura due to cross-border infiltration concerns; the three-judge bench was led by Chief Justice Sharad A. Bobde.

While addressing a pro-CAA public meeting in Lucknow, the CM of UP, Yogi Adityanath, threatened to charge protesters with sedition if they raised slogans demanding "Azadi" (freedom) in Uttar Pradesh.

A large rally against CAA/NRC took place in Kalaburagi with significant turnout; separately, 10,000 balloons with anti-CAA-NRC banners were released at Khureji Khas, and 10,000 black balloons were released in Khureji as part of the protests.

Women at a CAA protest in UP's Etawah were chased and thrashed by police.
Amit Shah asserted, "Protest as you like but CAA will stay."

23 January
A fact-finding team consisting of students from various prominent universities like Banaras Hindu University, Jamia Millia Islamia, and JNU released a report after visiting 15 violence-affected cities in Uttar Pradesh and accused the Uttar Pradesh police of brutality in dealing with protesters and attacking Muslims; the police were accused of violating basic principles of firearm usage by firing above the waist.

On January 23, 2020, a pro-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) rally, known as a "Tiranga Yatra" (Tricolor March), was organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) with support from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Lohardaga town, Jharkhand. The rally aimed to garner public support for the CAA, which had sparked widespread protests across India since its passage in December 2019. It began peacefully with participants carrying Indian flags and chanting pro-CAA slogans, drawing hundreds of supporters, including local BJP leaders and VHP members.

The violence erupted around 3-4 PM as the procession passed through Amlatoli Chowk, a densely populated area with a significant Muslim population.
The VHP and BJP goons attacked and around 40 motorbikes, 3 trucks, A dozen shops and 2 houses set on fire.

This is noteworthy because, now that state violence is no longer effective, Sanghis are modifying their approach, around a month before the Delhi pogrom. Sanghi militant organizations are now being mobilized, as is common in Indian riots. Jharkhand is the first experiment. Where it succeeds is in areas where the BJP is not in power, and they can still riot.

Don't forget, the Sanghis are peaceful since the Delhi elections are only around the corner. After that, Sanghis will rethink their entire approach. The Delhi pogrom is the consequence of that approach.

In Bengaluru, over 400 women began a 24-hour continuous sit-in protest at Pulikeshi Nagar (Frazer Town) against the CAA, inspired by Shaheen Bagh (this would extend into the next days).

24 January
A statewide shutdown, "Maharashtra Bandh," was organized by Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA, led by Prakash Ambedkar) across Maharashtra to protest against the CAA and the economic policies of the BJP-led central government, which according to the organizers "were ruining the country"; protesters were detained, and a BEST bus was attacked in areas like Kurla and Sion-Trombay.

Curfew was imposed in Jharkhand's Lohardaga district after clashes and violence between pro- and anti-CAA protesters (following the violence on January 23; schools and colleges were closed for two days).
Protests continued in Pune with a sit-in at Camp, led by women against the CAA.

In Kerala, the Muslim Youth League built a 'black wall' against Amit Shah in Kozhikode as part of ongoing protests.

CONT++

Thread:

Today is my 11 year old son's History exam.

While helping him prepare yesterday about the Vedic period. We had a very interesting discussion. (As a habit, I never teach, I ask questions and discuss).

Cont+ So, we were discussing how during the early Vedic period, kingship was often more elective and influenced by the tribal assembly.

But later, as society became more complex and monarchies consolidated power, the political theory evolved significantly.

+++

Long Read: Muslims in Assam are facing horrific circumstances.

(Dear Indian Muslims this is your real worry, so please pay attention.)

I've been reading numerous news sources to get a sense of the dreadful situation for Muslims in Assam.

According to recent reports, the situation for Indian Muslims in Assam, particularly those of Bengali descent, has worsened horribly in the last month.

The BJP government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has increased eviction drives targeting alleged encroachments, disproportionately harming Muslim populations.

So let's go over key events and developments from the last month based on available sources:

1. Eviction Drives Targeting Muslim Communities:

A. Scale and Impact:

Over 3,500–4,000 Muslim families, primarily Bengali-origin, have been displaced across districts like Goalpara, Dhubri, Lakhimpur, and Nalbari.

This affects an estimated 20,000–24,000 individuals, with evictions involving the demolition of homes, schools, mosques, and other structures.

For instance, in Goalpara’s Paikan Reserve Forest, approximately 1,080–1,100 families were evicted on July 12, 2025, with 1,400 families displaced in Dhubri from over 450 hectares of land.

B. Conditions Post-Eviction:

Evicted families are living in dire conditions, often in makeshift camps with limited access to food, shelter, or sanitation. In Goalpara, 93 families are reportedly sheltering on a rented three-bigha plot.

Reports highlight a lack of proper rehabilitation, with some families receiving minimal compensation (e.g., ₹50,000 in Dhubri).

C. Resistance and Arrests:

Evictions have sparked protests, with tensions escalating in some areas. In Paikan village, Saminur Ali was arrested for allegedly inciting communal hatred during a protest, though locals claim he was questioning selective targeting of Muslims.

The All Assam Minority Students’ Union organized statewide protests on July 12, condemning the drives as “inhumane.”

D. Political Opposition:

The All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) and Congress have criticized the evictions as discriminatory, alleging violations of Gauhati High Court orders mandating temporary shelter and rehabilitation.

An AIUDF delegation was barred from visiting eviction sites in Goalpara, prompting further protests. Congress MP Rakibul Hussain has promised compensation for evicted Indian citizens if Congress gains power.

2. Forced Deportations to Bangladesh:

A. Pushbacks:

Since May 2025, over 300 Muslims from Assam have reportedly been “pushed back” to Bangladesh, with some sources claiming up to 1,200 individuals were forcibly sent across the border in May alone, including from other states.

These actions, often conducted by the Border Security Force (BSF), have been criticized for lacking due process.

For example, Shona Banu, a 58-year-old from Barpeta, was allegedly forced across the border on May 25 despite having lived in Assam her entire life and having an appeal pending in the Supreme Court.

B. Impact on Families:

Families report missing relatives, with at least 10 individuals unaccounted for after being pushed into no-man’s land. Some, like Bakkar Ali’s father, are reportedly in Bangladesh police custody.

The Bangladesh government has protested these actions diplomatically, noting the lack of legal process.

C. Indigenous Muslim Concerns:

Even Deshi Muslims, recognized as “indigenous” by the state, have been affected, challenging claims that only “illegal immigrants” are targeted.

CONT. 3. Political Rhetoric and Policy Changes:

A. Chief Minister’s Statements:

Himanta Biswa Sarma has framed evictions as necessary to “restore demography” and protect “indigenous” Assamese identity, alleging a “conspiracy” behind Bengali Muslim migration to Hindu or Assamese Muslim areas.

He has also linked evictions to clearing land for corporate projects, prompting accusations of favoring industrial interests, such as those of the Adani Group.

B. Legislative Moves:

The Assam Assembly passed a bill for compulsory registration of Muslim marriages and divorces, sparking protests from opposition parties like AIUDF, who see it as targeting Muslim practices. Sarma’s comments against “Miya” Muslims (a term for Bengali-origin Muslims).

4. Social and Political Backlash:

A. Community Response:

Thousands of Muslims are leaving the BJP in protest against evictions. Others highlight the humanitarian crisis, with families left homeless under plastic tents.

B. Opposition Allegations:

Congress and AIUDF allege that the BJP is targeting Muslims to polarize voters ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. The Jamaat Ulama Council has called for a halt to “discriminatory” evictions.

C. Arrests for Dissent:

AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam was arrested for allegedly supporting Pakistan after a terror attack in Pahalgam, reflecting a crackdown on dissenting voices.

5. Trigger Event:

The eviction drives gained momentum after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which was linked to Pakistan, reigniting anti-Muslim sentiments.

6. Corporate Interests:

Some reports suggest evictions are linked to clearing land for industrial projects, with accusations that the Adani Group is a beneficiary, though these claims remain unverified. (Adani name always seems to appear in all Sanghi persecutions)

How bad is the situation:

The situation for Indian Muslims in Assam, particularly Bengali-origin Muslims, is highly precarious and can be described as severe due to the following factors:

Humanitarian Crisis:

The displacement of thousands of families, coupled with inadequate rehabilitation, has created a humanitarian crisis.

Evicted families face homelessness, lack of sanitation, and limited access to basic necessities, with some living in makeshift camps or under plastic tents.

The psychological toll is evident, with reports of individuals attempting suicide out of desperation.

Horrifying Erosion of Human Rights:

The forced deportations to Bangladesh, often without due process, and the targeting of even “indigenous” Muslims like the Deshi community suggest a broadening of state actions against Muslims.

The lack of transparency in Foreigners’ Tribunals and the pending NRC reverification exacerbate fears of statelessness.

Political Targeting:

The BJP’s rhetoric, particularly Sarma’s statements about “restoring demography” and targeting “Miya” Muslims, has created a climate of fear and marginalization.

Policies like mandatory marriage registration are perceived as intrusive and discriminatory, further alienating the community.

Social Polarization:

The evictions and deportations, coupled with Sarma’s demographic claims, have deepened communal divides. Narratives framing Muslims as a threat to Assamese identity, is deeply polarizing the social environment.

Legal and Political Resistance:

While opposition parties and civil society groups are challenging the evictions through protests and legal action, their efforts have been met with resistance, including arrests and restrictions on access to eviction sites. This limits avenues for redress.

CONT.

You should bookmark this post about Narendra Modi's lies and then thank me later.

Please share it with everyone.

So, on a whim, I requested @grok to list out Modi's lies. I started with the top ten and worked my way down to 50. Grok does not even refer to it as an exhaustive list. According to Grok, these are the top 50 lies told by Narendra Modi, the list may possibly extend to hundreds of lies.

Anyway Enjoy: 😜

1. Demonetisation and Black Money (2016)

Claim: Modi stated that the 2016 demonetisation would eradicate black money and terrorism funding.

Criticism: Reports later showed that 99.3% of demonetised currency returned to banks, per the Reserve Bank of India, suggesting little impact on black money. Critics argue the goalposts shifted to "digital economy" promotion when the original aim didn’t pan out.

2. Job Creation (Various Speeches)

Claim: Modi promised 2 crore jobs per year during the 2014 campaign and later claimed significant job growth under his tenure.

Criticism: Data from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) showed unemployment rising, with 50 lakh jobs reportedly lost post-demonetisation. Fact-checks dispute his claims of massive job creation, citing official statistics showing stagnation.

3. Congress Wealth Redistribution and Mangalsutras (April 2024)

Claim: During a speech in Rajasthan, Modi said the Congress manifesto planned to survey and seize private wealth, including women’s mangalsutras, to redistribute to Muslims, whom he called "infiltrators" and "those with more children."

Criticism: The Congress manifesto mentions no such policy. It only references redistributing government and surplus land under existing land ceiling laws, not private property or jewelry. This was widely flagged as a divisive falsehood.

4. Muslims and Resource Priority (April 2024)

Claim: Modi claimed a previous Congress government said Muslims have the "first right" to India’s resources.

Criticism: This distorts a 2006 speech by Manmohan Singh, who actually said minorities, Scheduled Castes, and other disadvantaged groups should have priority in development programs—never singling out Muslims for exclusive rights.

5. Aadhaar and Fake Beneficiaries (Various Speeches)

Claim: Modi claimed Aadhaar helped remove crores of fake beneficiaries from welfare schemes.

Criticism: No comprehensive data supports this scale of removal. Studies and government reports suggest duplicates were reduced, but the "crores" figure lacks evidence and is seen as exaggerated.

6. FDI Inflows (Various Claims)

Claim: Modi touted $130 billion in FDI over 2.5 years as a major achievement.

Criticism: Official data from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade showed lower figures for that period, with critics arguing he inflated numbers by including reinvestments or commitments, not just fresh inflows.

7. No Terror Attacks Under His Watch (2019)

Claim: At a 2019 rally in Bangalore, Modi asked, “Was there even a single terrorist attack when your chowkidar was on duty?” prompting a "No" from the crowd.

Criticism: This ignores attacks like Pulwama (2019), where 40 CRPF personnel died, and other incidents in Kashmir during his tenure. His own government’s data contradicts this.

8. Electoral Bonds Transparency (2024)

Claim: Modi called electoral bonds a transparent system where “anybody could know from where money is coming and where it is going.”

Criticism: The Supreme Court ruled the scheme unconstitutional in 2024, citing opacity. Data revealed only after court orders showed BJP as the biggest beneficiary, contradicting the transparency claim.

9. Omar Abdullah Quote (2020)

Claim: In a Lok Sabha speech, Modi attributed a fabricated statement to Omar Abdullah, saying he’d predicted a massive earthquake after Article 370’s abrogation.

Criticism: Abdullah denied this, and no record exists of such a statement. It’s seen as a deliberate misrepresentation.

CONT. 10. Congress and Article 370 (Various Speeches)

Claim: Modi asked why Congress didn’t implement the Constitution fully in Jammu & Kashmir earlier, implying inaction.

Criticism: This overlooks the 1954 Presidential Order under Nehru, which extended most of the Constitution to J&K, contradicting Modi’s narrative of Congress neglect.

11. INS Viraat as a Personal Taxi (2019)

Claim: During a 2019 rally, Modi alleged that Rajiv Gandhi used the INS Viraat, an Indian Navy aircraft carrier, as a "personal taxi" for a family vacation in 1987.

Criticism: Navy veterans and official records clarified that Rajiv Gandhi’s trip to Lakshadweep was an official visit, with naval personnel and logistics planned accordingly. No evidence supports the "taxi" narrative; it was a misrepresentation of a state function.

12. Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022 (2016)

Claim: Modi promised to double farmers’ income by 2022, reiterated in multiple speeches.

Criticism: The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data showed farm income grew marginally—far from doubling. Adjusted for inflation, real income barely increased, with agricultural distress rising due to costs outpacing earnings.

13. Covid-19 Management Success (2020-2021)

Claim: Modi claimed India’s Covid-19 response was a global success, citing low case counts and effective lockdowns.

Criticism: The second wave in 2021 exposed underreported deaths and a healthcare collapse. Independent estimates (e.g., The Lancet) suggest millions died, far exceeding official figures, contradicting the "success" narrative.

14. No Discussion on NRC (2019)

Claim: Modi said in December 2019 that his government had never discussed a nationwide National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Criticism: This clashed with Home Minister Amit Shah’s parliamentary statements and the President’s address, both referencing a nationwide NRC plan tied to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

15. Inheritance Tax and Rajiv Gandhi (2024)

Claim: Modi claimed Rajiv Gandhi abolished the inheritance tax in 1985 to save his family’s wealth, implying Congress wants to reintroduce it.

Criticism: Finance Minister VP Singh’s 1985 budget speech cited administrative inefficiencies, not family wealth, as the reason for scrapping estate duty. No Congress manifesto proposes its return.

16. Gandhi and Cleanliness (2019)

Claim: Modi said Mahatma Gandhi wanted the Congress dissolved after independence and that he (Modi) fulfilled Gandhi’s cleanliness dream with Swachh Bharat.

Criticism: Gandhi’s call to rethink Congress’s role is debated, not a clear dissolution demand. Swachh Bharat’s impact is overstated—sanitation improved, but open defecation persists per ground reports.

17. Rewa Solar Project as Asia’s Largest (2020)

Claim: Modi called the Rewa Solar Project in
Madhya Pradesh "Asia’s largest" upon its launch.

Criticism: At 750 MW, it was dwarfed by projects like China’s 2,200 MW Longyangxia Dam Solar Park. The claim was either ignorance or exaggeration.

18. Rafale Deal Transparency (2019)

Claim: Modi defended the Rafale fighter jet deal as transparent and cost-effective.

Criticism: The Comptroller and Auditor General flagged opacity in pricing, and the Supreme Court dismissed a review petition without fully resolving cost discrepancies compared to the UPA-era negotiations.

19. Nehru and J&K Integration (Various Speeches)

Claim: Modi often says Jawaharlal Nehru blocked full integration of Jammu & Kashmir into India.

Criticism: The 1954 Presidential Order under Nehru applied most of the Constitution to J&K, contradicting Modi’s narrative of negligence.

20. Agnipath Scheme and Jobs (2022)

Claim: Modi touted the Agnipath military recruitment scheme as a job-creation masterstroke for youth.

Criticism: Critics, including opposition leaders and ex-servicemen, argue it reduces long-term employment prospects, with only 25% of recruits retained after four years, clashing with earlier job promises.

CONT.

So, in Lucknow, following Akbar Nagar, it's time for Pant Nagar (Rahim Nagar) Demolition.

Some might argue that illegal structures should be dismantled (Mostly Sanghis). Others may ask, "Where will these people go?"

While I vehemently agree that people should not be made homeless. I'd want to point out something else.

Because Akbarnagar was a Muslim majority region, simply look at the coverage in Hindi and English newspapers such as Dainik Bhaskar, Jagaran, Hindustan Times, and so on.

They had chosen a specific method to relay the news, referring to the structures and the colony as "Avaidh," implying that it was illegal hence should be demolished.

"Mandir-Masjids" were demolished, demonstrating that just and equitable measures were adopted.

Talking about "Tree planting and riverfront beautification."

However, because Pant Nagar is predominantly Hindu, the reporting takes on a different emotional tone.

Now they're siding with the people. For example, "Rote-Bilakhte parivar", "Panic among residents", "10 hazaar log honge beghar", and so on.

(I'll include screen shots in the thread).

This level of cruel, biased, prejudiced, and malicious manipulation is the hallmark of terrible Sanghi Media in India. The problem is the same, yet the portrayal differs simply because the residents' religions are different.

Even reasonable journalists and commentators rarely discuss the manipulation of exactly the same news like this.

This is how consent is manufactured in India.
This is how you absorb knowledge.
This is India's despicable Jounalism in a Nutshell.
This is why I have little respect for the majority of India's respected voices.

This, especially this needs to change. Because we are not being silent, anymore. Akbar Nagar Coverage:

🧵
I'll keep reminding you that India has only one problem: communalism.

Communalism allows a rapist to get away with rape.
A murderer can get away with murder by hiding behind communalism.
A deeply corrupt person can use communalism to further their corruption. They can get away with giving you no jobs, no medical facilities, no education because your hate needs immediate quenching. They will fan your hate to turn you blind.

You can be tuned into a slave if they control your hate.

🧵
This is not mediaeval times. This is the year 2023.

According to the Archbishop of Imphal, 249 churches in Manipur, India's Secular Democratic Republic, have been burned down.

Not 1, not 2, not 10, not 50, not 100, not 200, but 249 churches.
+++ 1. How can 249 churches burn down without mass planning?
2. In a place where 41% of the population is Christian?
3. Because 249 is such a large number, it requires the participation of thousands of people. It does not appear possible without state support. ++

🧵
Manoj Muntashir and Om Raut are a miniature BJP.

Please allow me to explain:
1. They promised the moon and delivered a pile of sand.
2. They exploited people's communal feelings to gain power.
3. They strike a powerful pose. 4. They attempted to sell hatred by vilifying and demonising Muslims. They did their best to make Ravan appear Muslim.
5. They are conmen who have no actual skill but act as if they do.
6. They are C-level people and D-level artists, but they have fantastic PR.

In Junagadh, Gujarat Police are publicly flogging Muslims.

I simply require clarification.

1. Which section of the IPC permits public flogging?
2. Do these videos ever make it to the Supreme Court of India's judges? I can't believe they don't watch these videos. +++ 3. Who decided these men deserved to be punished? Where is the due process? Have India's courts abandoned their objective?
4. Aren't these cops committing a crime in front of the camera?
5. Why haven't these cops been arrested yet?

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संघियों की दुनिया के 101 झूठे सच:

1. जैक डोरसी झूठ बोल रहा है.
2. चीन ने भारत के किसी भूभाग पर कब्जा नहीं किया.
3. अडानी पाक साफ है.
4. मणिपुर शांतिपूर्ण है.
5. उत्तराखंड शांतिपूर्ण है.
6. कोविड में ऑक्सीजन की कमी से किसी की मौत नहीं हुई.
7. सीएए/एनआरसी भेदभावपूर्ण नहीं है. 8. निर्दोष उमर खालिद को जेल होना चाहिए क्योंकि...
9. भीमा कोरेगांव मामले में किसी ने नकली सबूत प्लांट नहीं किए!
10. ढाबोलकर, पंसारे, कलबुर्गी और गौरी लंकेश को किसी ने नहीं मारा.
11. भारत में कोई भी बेरोजगार नहीं है.
12. मुसलमान जिहादी होते हैं.

On the morning of June 13, Mohammad Ashraf, a 41-year-old trader who has not been able to open his garment shop for over two weeks, because of an intimidating campaign by groups of Hindus to evict Muslims from their homes and trades in this town in Uttarkashi. Muslim families have reportedly fled the town in fear, since May 28, soon after Hindutva groups started taking out processions demanding the town be cleared of Muslims and eviction notices were pasted on shops.

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The world according to Sanghis:

1. Jack Dorsey is lying.
2. China didn't occupy any territory of
India.
3. Adani is clean.
4. Manipur is peaceful.
5. Uttrakhad is peaceful.
6. Nobody died due to the lack of oxygen in Covid.
7. CAA/NRC is not discriminatory. 8. Umar Khalid should be jail because...
9. Nobody planted evidence in Bheema Koregaon case.
10. Nobody killed Dhabolkar, Pansare, Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh.
11. Nobody is unemployed in India.
12. Muslims are Jihadis.
13. Sikhs are Khalistanis.

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Dear @INCIndia,
Uttarakhand gives you the option. It is now up to you to decide what you stand for.

Do you support an India that is pluralistic, diverse, secular, tolerant, and democratic?

And

Do you oppose a hateful, divisive, and homogeneous India? You may:

1. Organise meetings throughout the state to mobilise your cadre.
2. Talk to the people in the majority who are filled with hatred and try to fix them.
3. Hold road shows across the state with Muslim participation to demonstrate unity in diversity.

"What is happening in Uttarakhand is akin to Nazi Germany."

"No, it is similar to what happened to Kashmiri Pandits."

"Just like what happened to Sikhs in 1984 and Muslims in 2002."

"So you deny Kashmir?"

Nobody denies Kashmiri Pandits. The Sanghis are the worst...+++ Sanghis want the world to accept only their truth while rejecting everything else. Using Kashmiri Pandits as an excuse to commit atrocities and oppression against every minority, Dalit and Adivasi.
Kashmiri Pandits are merely a shield used to justify their sadism and bloodlust.

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What is happening to Muslims in Uttarakhand is no different than what happened to Jews in Nazi Germany.

1. The Muslim traders are given a deadline of 15th June to leave the state.

2. Rampant fear and hate mongering accompanied by Hate Speeches by Right Wing groups. 3. Right-wing organisations, which are scheduled to hold a mahapanchayat on June 15, said they will not allow the Muslims to hold their meeting on June 18.

4. On May 29, the Right Wingers attacked shops and establishments belonging to the Muslims.

Isn't this a humiliation of the entire Dalit community? Why is it still a thing to eat at a Dalit home, why shouldn't it be normal? It shows deeply ingrained casteism.

S Jaishankar should invite Dalits to his house for dinner and use his kitchen and utensils the next time. ++ + Even tweets and news articles like these should be punished severely by the law and classified as discrimination.

Why does it not bother people to read such news? This is both infuriating and perplexing.

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5 Irritating things about Umar Khalid:

1. "Hmm hmm" If he is listening to you, he will say "hmm hmm" at least 20-30 times per minute.
2. He has a habit of standing with one hand on his back, pressing down hard as if trying to straighten his back.
#1000DaysOfInjustice 3. Scholars cite sources in their books; he cites sources in casual conversations. Even if the subject is as stupid as Farts.
4. "However". Even when Umar agrees with you, he always manages to bring the conversation back to "However." (Those who know him understand what I mean.)

1. Manoj Sahni (53), the accused's name, is cleverly missing.

2. Saraswati Vaidya, his 36-year-old live-in partner, was murdered.

3. He dismembered her body with tree cutters in order to destroy evidence.+++ 4. Police discovered three buckets filled with chopped body parts and blood inside the flat's kitchen.

5. The accused boiled her body parts in a pressure cooker before putting them in plastic bags to dispose of them.

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Here's a question I'd ask if I were making Kerala Story. If you have an answer, please let me know.

Assuming I'm a recruiter for ISIS. Why would I want to recruit a Hindu girl into ISIS when there are millions of Muslim girls and boys to choose from? Shouldn't Muslims be the ideal candidate for any ISIS recruiter, and in 20 crore India Muslims, they couldn't find not more than 100? And then they thought If indoctrination isn't working on Indian Muslims, why not try it on Hindu girls? Do you see where I'm going with this?

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The Kerala Story will almost certainly be a hit. However, it is not an organic hit, and neither was Kashmir Files. The PM is pushing this propaganda piece.

It will be a success if your marketer is the PM. And this is where Mr @IAmSudhirMishra assessment falls short.+++ While I initially agreed with Sudhir bhai that Liberals don't come to watch films made for them. I realised it was a shallow assessment.

We must recognise that we are up against a well-oiled behemoth known as Sangh Parivar. There are millions of moving parts in this machine.

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This is the Jaipur-Delhi National Highway. And because Jaipur is my hometown and I grew up there, I must have performed Eid Namaz on this very road for at least 20 years.

A thread about how wonderful growing up was.

https://twitter.com/erbmjha/status/1649729439515967488

LOCATION

This is the location on Google Maps; the entire area is known as Eidgah locally; as you can see in the right corner, there is an Idgah van vihar colony, and just above it is an Idgah Kachchi Basti.

The yellow road on the map is the national highway.