Author: Staff Reporter

Marine activity near the Port of Baltimore has ground to a halt following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, an incident poised to disrupt shipping and logistical networks.

A significant container vessel collided with a support column shortly before 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, resulting in the bridge plummeting into the Patapsco River. Officials have reported the successful rescue of two individuals, but tragically, six others are presumed deceased following their fall into the river.

Analysts are scrutinizing the potential ramifications of the incident on a crucial hub for automobile imports. While Baltimore’s port may not be the largest in the nation, it boasts the highest throughput of car and light truck shipments.

According to Abe Eshkenazi, who leads the Association for Supply Chain Management, certain automakers may be compelled to reroute their shipments to alternate East Coast ports such as those in New York, New Jersey, or Roanoke, Virginia. This redirection carries the risk of transporting goods further from their intended destinations, potentially inflating costs. Eshkenazi notes, “In the short term, we’re going to have to address the ships that are already in port that can’t get out. And then similarly, we have a number of ships that are already in transit that are scheduled to come into the port that can’t get in.”

The repercussions of the bridge collapse extend beyond automotive imports, impacting coal and sugar shipments as well as the operations of warehouses and trucking companies in the Baltimore area.

However, the collapse of the bridge is not anticipated to exert a substantial influence on global shipping, which is already contending with pressures stemming from attacks by Houthi militants in the Red Sea and a drought in Panama leading to congestion at the Panama Canal.

New Delhi, March 28, 2024:Catholic communicators in India have mourned the death of James Kottoor, a former editor of the Chennai-based New Leader publication and a prolific writer who helped spread the Vatican II reforms in India.

Kottoor died March 27 in Kochi, Kerala, where he was spending his retired life. He was 89. He is survived by his wife Agnes and three daughters who are nurses settled in the United States, and a son who is a doctor.

He was born on August 18, 1934, in Kottayam, Kerala. He edited The New Leader during 1967-1975.

He was also the editor-in-chief of the Church Citizens’ Voice, a portal. He regularly contributed to Matters India until a few years ago.

A former priest of Madras-Mylapore, he obtained a doctorate in theology from Rome’s Pontifical Urban University and Bachelors in Journalism, at Marquette University in the US.

Father D Amudhan, a former president of the Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA), expressed sadness over Kottoor’s death. “He was the editor of the New Leader when I met him in 1973. Under his editorship the New Leader was a widely read and well liked Catholic weekly,” Father Amudhan told Matters India March 28.

According to the 80-year-old priest of Thanjavur diocese, Kottoor’s “constructive criticism and bold proposals were an eye opener in the Indian church. He was one of the few who openly and positively contributed for the reforms of the Vatican Council to spread in the country.”

Salesian Father C M Paul, a former president of the Signis India, says Kottoor was known and respected for his progressive stance and critical analysis of societal and political matters from a Catholic perspective. “He was my inspiration when I took charge as the editor of the Herald weekly of Calcutta in 1989,” Father Paul told Matters India.

Father Paul too agrees that Kottoor, during his tenure as editor, was known for his bold and outspoken editorial style, often addressing controversial topics such as corruption, social justice, gender equality and religious reform within the Catholic Church.

He gained recognition for his advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities and his efforts to promote dialogue and reform within the Church hierarchy, the Salesian priest added.

Kottoor’s writings, Father Paul added, often reflected his deep concern for the poor, and he used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, caste discrimination, and human rights abuses.

“He was also known for his criticism of religious fundamentalism and his calls for greater accountability and transparency within religious institutions,” he added.

ICPA’s current president Ignatius Gonsalves, mourning Kottoor’s death, hailed the veteran journalist who clamoured for reform in the Church, especially among his own community of Kananites.

This former priest “was fiercely committed to the Church and the Gospel values. Until recently he was active with his website called “Church Citizens Voice.” survived by his and their four children.

Kottoor encouraged the formation of an association of former priests and nuns and addressed its conference at Kochi on February 28, 2015.

In the early hours of March 26, a cargo ship carrying a crew of 22 Indians collided with a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.

The Singapore-based Synergy Marine Group, the charter manager of the cargo ship, confirmed that all crew members were safe, and there were no casualties.

Reports indicate that the ship struck a column of the bridge, causing it to fall into the water. Rescue operations are ongoing, and both city and state officials have declared a state of emergency in response to the incident.

The shipping company issued a statement regarding the collision, stating, “Owners and managers of the Singapore-flagged container ship ‘DALI’ (IMO 9697428) report that the vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore whilst under pilotage with two pilots onboard, at approximately 01:30 local time on 26th March.”

The statement also confirmed that all crew members, including the two pilots, were safe, with no injuries or pollution reported. The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation, but initial findings suggest that the crew issued a distress call, indicating a loss of power and propulsion before the collision.

The company stated that it has informed the US Coast Guard and local officials and is fully cooperating with government agencies. Details about the ship’s capacity were also provided, noting it as a 10,000 TEU vessel with 4,679 TEU onboard, outbound from Baltimore to Colombo.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore mentioned on social media platform X that the ship had lost power before the collision. He stated that his office is in communication with the US Transportation secretary and fire emergency personnel to coordinate response efforts.

Authorities at the Patapsco River Baltimore Port have suspended vessel traffic until further notice, stating, “At this time, we do not know how long vessel traffic will be suspended. As soon as that is determined, we will provide an update.”

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott declared a local state of emergency following the collapse of the Key Bridge. He assured the public that resources were being mobilized swiftly to address the crisis and ensure community safety and well-being.

The Major Archbishop of the influential Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, has urged citizens to cast their votes in favor of parties that prioritize the protection of minorities and uphold the Constitution, as the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections.

Speaking to reporters at an event, Thattil expressed concern over a recent report by a Christian forum revealing 161 reported attacks on Christians in 2024. He described the findings as “painful” and highlighted the significance of the Constitution in safeguarding citizens’ rights. He mentioned assurances from the Prime Minister and the government regarding taking strict actions in response to such incidents.

“The reports on the rise in attacks are painful, especially when we have a strong Constitution which provides us our rights. The Prime Minister, when we met him, and the government had assured stern action,” said Thattil.

When questioned about the approaching Lok Sabha elections, Thattil emphasized the importance of voting for candidates who prioritize protecting minorities and upholding the Constitution.

“Everyone can vote according to their wish. But personally, I would say, people should vote for those who protect minorities and the Constitution,” he stated.

Regarding the increasing attacks on the Christian community, Thattil advised members to remain composed while urging the government to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of the victims.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India has scheduled April 26 as the polling date for Kerala’s 20 Lok Sabha constituencies.

The latest biographical film on Savarkar offers a compelling narrative, catering not just to his admirers but also to those unfamiliar with his legacy or critical of it. It delves into the complexities of Savarkar’s life, highlighting his pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and the sacrifices he made. Despite facing a decade of harsh imprisonment in the British penal colony of Kālā Pānī, Savarkar remained steadfast in his commitment to the cause.

While some may argue that the film portrays Savarkar in a glorified light, it undeniably presents factual accounts that challenge common perceptions. A central theme of the biopic is the contrast between Mahatma Gandhi and Savarkar, emphasizing their differing approaches to achieving Indian independence. Unlike Gandhi’s advocacy for non-violence, Savarkar championed armed resistance, earning him the fear of the British authorities.

Savarkar’s redefinition of the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny as the First War of Indian Independence and his inspiration drawn from figures like Mazzini are depicted in the film. It also explores his establishment of “Abhinav Bharat,” mirroring Mazzini’s “Young Italy,” to promote nationalist sentiment and unity.

Despite covering a vast expanse of history, the film maintains a brisk pace, though some editing could have streamlined the narrative. Portrayals of historical figures such as Gandhi and Churchill occasionally border on caricature, detracting from the otherwise factual presentation.

The harrowing experiences of Savarkar in Kālā Pānī, including torture and encounters with brutal jailers, are vividly depicted. While the extensive portrayal of torture may seem excessive, it underscores the exceptional suffering endured by Savarkar, orchestrated by fellow Indians under British direction.

The biopic raises pertinent questions about the legitimacy of resistance against colonial oppression. It suggests that India’s independence ultimately came through the threat of violence, forcing the British to recognize the futility of continued colonial rule.

A notable aspect addressed in the film is Savarkar’s infamous mercy petition, contextualizing it within his broader strategy for the freedom struggle. His pragmatic approach, rooted in legal training, aimed to secure the release of all prisoners, prioritizing the larger cause over personal liberty.

Furthermore, the film challenges misconceptions about Savarkar’s Hindutva ideology, portraying it as inclusive rather than exclusionary. According to Savarkar, anyone identifying with the Indian homeland and culture could be considered a Hindu, irrespective of religious affiliation.

In essence, the Savarkar biopic offers a nuanced portrayal of a controversial figure in Indian history, inviting viewers to reassess their perspectives on his contributions to the nation’s freedom struggle. Whether one admires or opposes Savarkar’s ideology, the film provides valuable insights into a pivotal era of Indian history.

Shubhangi Sharma, a resident of Berlin, prepares for a vibrant Holi celebration, emblematic of the growing trend among high-earning Indians settling abroad to infuse billions into local economies. Sharma’s forthcoming festivities reflect a significant economic footprint, as she plans to spend approximately €200 to host friends, purchase Holi paint, and adorn traditional attire procured during her visits to Delhi.

As a microbiologist married to a tech professional, Sharma epitomizes a demographic capable of indulging in traditional festivals and luxury living, attributing their financial freedom to their relocation to countries like Germany. She remarks, “I moved my investments from India to Germany, so now all my savings are here, and I enjoy investing money in different stock profiles and different exchange-traded funds (ETFs).”

The surge in skilled Indian migration to Germany, facilitated by relaxed visa regulations, mirrors broader global trends. Indians, particularly in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), are becoming the top immigrant earners in Europe’s largest economy, with a median monthly wage of €4,974.

The diaspora’s economic influence extends beyond Germany, with approximately 18 million Indians residing overseas, spanning continents. This dispersion contributes to a significant global economic footprint, as highlighted by economist V N Balasubramanyam: “Both in terms of the global economy and their own purchasing power, the impact is substantial.”

Remittance payments to India, a key economic driver, reached record highs in 2023, reflecting the diaspora’s financial contributions. However, the economic impact transcends remittances, encompassing investments, entrepreneurship, and skill enhancement within industries such as IT and pharmaceuticals.

In the United States, Indians emerge as the highest-earning ethnic minority group, wielding considerable buying power and driving demand in real estate markets. Similar patterns manifest in countries like the UK, Singapore, and the Gulf, indicating a global trend of Indian diaspora investment.

Strategic financial planning characterizes the diaspora’s approach to wealth management, with a focus on low-risk investments and retirement planning. Approximately 25% of non-resident Indians prefer conservative investment options, demonstrating a prudent approach to capital retention and growth.

Analysts anticipate continued global resonance of the Indian diaspora’s economic story, contingent upon political dynamics and visa policies. Balasubramanyam observes, “The economic power of the Indian diaspora will continue to increase and be substantial,” emphasizing the potential for joint ventures and investment back into India.

This economic narrative is propelled by a cohort of young, ambitious professionals navigating open-market policies across multiple countries. Dutta notes, “They are young people in the 30s who still have decades of work life ahead, are super ambitious and aspirational,” underscoring their potential to shape global economies.

In a digitalized, globalized context, the economic impact of high-earning Indian expatriates resonates across borders, promising continued contributions to global markets and investment landscapes.

Russia is observing a day of mourning following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of at least 137 individuals during a crowded concert at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall on Friday evening. Flags across the nation fly at half-mast, numerous events have been canceled, and TV schedules have been adjusted in light of the somber occasion.

The assault, perpetrated by gunmen who entered the venue, resulted in more than 140 people sustaining injuries as they fired indiscriminately before setting the hall ablaze. The Islamic State (IS) group has claimed responsibility for the attack, with Amaq, the IS media outlet, posting an image purportedly depicting the four masked assailants involved. However, Russian authorities have not officially commented on IS’s assertion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that all four perpetrators have been apprehended. Images released by Russia’s Investigative Committee showed the detainees being escorted into a building, restrained and blindfolded. President Putin condemned the massacre as a “barbaric terrorist act,” echoing earlier statements by Russian security services that the assailants may have attempted to flee to Ukraine.

However, Ukraine swiftly dismissed any involvement, labeling such claims as “absurd.” Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military intelligence directorate, refuted suggestions of a link to Ukraine, stating that such a notion would imply the attackers were either “stupid or suicidal.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Putin of attempting to shift blame onto Ukraine, criticizing his silence in addressing the Russian populace in the aftermath of the tragedy.

BBC Verify has corroborated details of two of the alleged attackers seen in the IS video with images of the arrested suspects circulating on pro-Kremlin Telegram channels. The US National Security Council revealed it had previously alerted Russia to a potential IS threat targeting “large gatherings,” including concerts, in Moscow. The Kremlin dismissed this warning as “propaganda” and an attempt by the US to interfere in Russian affairs.

The White House condemned the attack, describing IS as a “common terrorist enemy” that must be defeated globally. Reports of the assault inside Crocus City Hall emerged around 20:00 local time on Friday, as thousands gathered for a rock concert by veteran band Picnic. Videos posted online captured the chaos as gunmen opened fire, prompting panic among attendees who sought refuge wherever possible.

Eyewitness accounts described the assailants methodically targeting individuals, with some concertgoers attempting to escape to the basement or roof. Anastasia Rodionova, who attended the concert, recalled the terrifying scene of gunmen gunning down victims in silence. Vitaly, another witness, observed the attackers throwing petrol bombs before chaos ensued.

Outside the hall, smoke billowed into the sky as flames engulfed the roof and facade. Reports indicated explosions that shattered glass on the building’s upper floors. Special forces units swiftly responded, storming the venue as medical personnel and numerous ambulances rushed to the scene. Helicopters circled overhead, aiding efforts to extinguish the fire.

The Russian Investigative Committee confirmed that the attackers used flammable liquid to ignite portions of the concert hall. They attributed the victims’ deaths to gunshot wounds and poisoning from smoke inhalation. On Saturday, a makeshift memorial emerged outside the venue, where mourners lit candles and laid flowers. Across Moscow and other cities, electronic billboards displayed a single burning candle alongside the word “Skorbim” – “we mourn.”

Authorities are currently in pursuit of two individuals believed to be involved in the brutal murder of a 52-year-old woman whose body was discovered concealed in a duffel bag within her deceased mother’s luxurious Manhattan residence last week, as stated by law enforcement officials on Thursday.

The victim, identified as Nadia Vitel, reportedly encountered the assailants while she was preparing her late mother’s 19th-floor apartment on East 31st Street for the occupancy of a family friend upon her recent arrival from Spain. According to police, Vitel was subjected to a vicious assault by the perpetrators upon discovering them unlawfully occupying the premises.

“We believe that some squatters took the apartment over and this woman came home … and walked in on the squatters that were there,” stated NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny.

The suspects, whose identities have not been disclosed by the NYPD, were captured on surveillance footage fleeing the scene following the murder, absconding in the victim’s Lexus SUV. Their escape led them across state lines, culminating in a crash in Lower Paxton Township, Pennsylvania.

Despite the occurrence of the incident, authorities were not notified until the subsequent day, as Pennsylvania law enforcement officials did not promptly run the license plates to ascertain the vehicle’s connection to a homicide, explained Kenny.

The fugitives, who are still at large as of Thursday, reportedly attempted to procure a new vehicle for $1,000 from various local car dealerships subsequent to the collision.

These developments transpired subsequent to the grim discovery made by Vitel’s 19-year-old son, Michael Medvedev, who stumbled upon his mother’s lifeless body inside the apartment with the assistance of the building’s superintendent after being unable to contact her for 48 hours.

“As they’re getting ready to leave, the son opens up the closet door near the front door and discovers the duffel bag with a foot sticking out,” recounted Kenny.

The duration of time the perpetrators had been occupying the apartment prior to Vitel’s encounter with them remains unclear, as does the method by which they gained entry into the premises.

“The apartment itself is very unique in that there’s no front door to the apartment. You take an elevator up and then you key your way in. The elevator is actually your front door,” explained Kenny, emphasizing the upscale nature of the residence.

Although the identities of the two suspects have not been divulged by law enforcement, insider sources have previously described them as a man and woman in their twenties.

“As of right now, we have probable cause, we have two subjects, we have the Regional Fugitive Task Force actively hunting as we speak,” asserted Kenny, noting that one of the squatters has a prior arrest record.

In the quiet corners of Assam, where the lush greenery meets the vibrant culture of its people,lies a tale of dedication, faith, and unwavering commitment. It is a tale woven through the corridors of schools, where knowledge blossoms and futures take shape. And in this tale, I find myself as both witness and participant, a humble servant in the grand tapestry of education and enlightenment.

My journey has taken me through the hallowed halls of Dokmoka Krist Jyoti School, Assumption School Chokihola, Holy Family School Japrajan, and besides being an acting principal of Don Bosco School, Diphu, St.Joseph School Dolomora, Principal of St.Mary’s School Diphu,Principal of Little Flower School Manja, Principal of Kristu Jayanti School Dhansiri, Principal of St. Mary’s School Daldali and many others scattered across the landscape of Assam. As a teacher, as an acting principal-I have walked these paths with reverence and purpose, knowing thet each step I take is a step towards shaping young minds and nurturing the seeds of wisdom within them.

But beyond the titles and the roles, there lies a deeper truth that guodes me- the truth of my faith, the truth of my calling. As a Catholic priest, In wear my cassock not just as a uniform but as a symbol of my commitment to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, It is a mantle of responsibility, a reminder of thge sacred duty bestowed upon me to serve others with love, compassion, and humility.

In a world where divisiveness and discord seem to be on the rise, I am confronted with a choice – to stand idly by or to speak out, to conform to the status quo or to challenge it. And I choose the latter, not out of defiance, but out of a deep-rooted belief in the values that I hold dear. For I believe that true courage lies not in the absence of fear,but in the willingness to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost.

I have seen the status of famous figures that adorn our government buildings, parks, and memorials – figures who have shaped the destiny of our nation and left an indelible mark on history. And just as we honour and commemorate these individuals, so too do Christians honor and preserve the memory of the saints who have walked before us. They are beacons of light in a world shrouded in darkness, guiding us with their examples of faith, courage, and selflessness.

But amidst the noise and clamor of the world, I am reminded of the simple yet profound teachings of Jesus Christ – to love one another, to treat others as we would like to be treated, to uphold the dignity and worth of every human being. And so, I stand resolute in my commitment to these values, ready to defend them with every fiber of my being.
To my students, to their parents, to all who call Assam home – I urge you to embrace the sacredness of our constitution and the magnanimity of Christian works. For it is through these principles that we can build a society rooted in justice, equality, and compassion.

And as I reflect on the countless lives that have passed through the doors of our schools, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and humility. For it is in the faces of these young minds that I see the hope and promise of a brighter future – a future built on the foundation of humanity, decency, and mutual respect.

So let us rise above the divisions that threaten to tear us apart. Let us stand together as one community, United in our shared humanity and our common purpose. For only then can we truly safeguard the values that define us as a people, and only then can we fulfill the promise of a better tomorrow for generations to come.