genie guessing game Police arrested a 26-year-old man on Monday in the Manhattan killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO after they say a Pennsylvania McDonald's worker alerted authorities to a customer who resembled the suspected gunman. The suspect, identified by police as Luigi Nicholas Mangione, had a gun believed to be the one used in Wednesday’s attack on Brian Thompson , as well as writings expressing anger at corporate America, police said. Here are some of the latest developments in the ongoing investigation: Mangione was taken into custody at around 9:15 a.m. after police received a tip that he was eating at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, about 85 miles (137 kilometers) east of Pittsburgh, police said. Mangione was being held in Pennsylvania on gun charges and will eventually be extradited to New York to face charges in connection with Thompson’s death, said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny. In addition to a three-page, handwritten document that suggests he harbored “ill will toward corporate America,” Kenny said Mangione also had a ghost gun , a type of weapon that can be assembled at home and is difficult to trace. Officers questioned Mangione, who was acting suspiciously and carrying multiple fraudulent IDs, as well as a U.S. passport, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a news conference. Officers also found a suppressor, “consistent with the weapon used in the murder,” the commissioner said. He had clothing and a mask similar to those worn by the shooter and a fraudulent New Jersey ID matching one the suspect used to check into a New York City hostel before the shooting, Tisch said. Kenny said Mangione was born and raised in Maryland, has ties to San Francisco and that his last known address is in Honolulu, Hawaii. Mangione, who was valedictorian of his Maryland prep school, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a university spokesman told The Associated Press on Monday. He learned to code in high school and helped start a club at Penn for people interested in gaming and game design, according to a 2018 story in Penn Today, a campus publication. His social media posts also suggest that he belonged to the fraternity Phi Kappa Psi. They also show him taking part in a 2019 program at Stanford University, and in photos with family and friends at the Jersey Shore and in Hawaii, San Diego, Puerto Rico, and other destinations. The Gilman School, from which Mangione graduated in 2016, is one of Baltimore’s elite prep schools. Some of the city’s wealthiest and most prominent people, including Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr., have had children attend the school. Its alumni include sportswriter Frank Deford and former Arizona Gov. Fife Symington. In his valedictory speech, Luigi Mangione described his classmates’ “incredible courage to explore the unknown and try new things,” according to a post on the school website. He praised their collective inventiveness and pioneering mindset. Mangione comes from a prominent Maryland family. His grandfather Nick Mangione, who died in 2008, was a successful real estate developer. One of his best-known projects was Turf Valley Resort, a sprawling luxury retreat and conference center outside Baltimore that he purchased in 1978. The father of 10 children, Nick Mangione prepared his five sons — including Luigi Mangione’s father, Louis Mangione — to help manage the family business, according to a 2003 Washington Post report. The Mangione family also purchased Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore in 1986. On Monday, Baltimore County police officers blocked off an entrance to the property, which public records link to Luigi Mangione’s parents. A swarm of reporters and photographers gathered outside the entrance. Luigi Mangione is one of 37 grandchildren of Nick Mangione, according to his obituary. Luigi Mangione's grandparents donated to charities through the Mangione Family Foundation, according to a statement from Loyola University commemorating Nick Mangione’s wife’s death in 2023. They donated to various causes ranging from Catholic organizations to colleges and the arts. One of Luigi Mangione’s cousins is Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione. A spokesman for the lawmaker's office confirmed the relationship Monday. Police said the person who killed Thompson left a hostel on Manhattan's Upper West Side at 5:41 a.m. on Wednesday. Just 11 minutes later, he was seen on surveillance video walking back and forth in front of the New York Hilton Midtown, wearing a distinctive backpack. At 6:44 a.m., he shot Thompson at a side entrance to the hotel, fled on foot, then climbed aboard a bicycle and within four minutes had entered Central Park. Another security camera recorded the gunman leaving the park near the American Museum of Natural History at 6:56 a.m. still on the bicycle but without the backpack. After getting in a taxi, he headed north to a bus terminal near the George Washington Bridge, arriving at around 7:30 a.m. From there, the trail of video evidence runs cold. Police have not located video of the suspected shooter exiting the building, leading them to believe he likely took a bus out of town. Police said they are still investigating the path the suspect took to Pennsylvania. “This just happened this morning," Kenny said. "We’ll be working, backtracking his steps from New York to Altoona, Pennsylvania,” Kenny said. Associated Press reporters Lea Skene in Baltimore and Cedar Attanasio in New York contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.Old oil palms are not as productive as young ones, as the old stock tends to be of a taller variety, harder to reach for the fruit harvesters. — Bernama file photo I AM happy to know that there exists an Incorporated Society of Planters (ISP) in Sarawak. It has a branch headed by Mr Ling Chia Yi ( The Borneo Post – Dec 3, 2024). Hello! I am not sure if this is the same society formed by the rubber planters in Malaya during the colonial days. Whatever it is, this kind of organisation is good for the plantation managers in the state. Many oil palm plantations have been established here in the past 50 years. This society of planters serves as a club where members may meet and relax and talk about other problems connected with the plantation industry, as well as the current affairs. One difficult problem faced by the oil palm industry in Sarawak is the shortage of labour. There are plenty of fresh fruits growing on the palms, but harvesters are few. That has been a blight on the industry. Perhaps, the leaders of ISP Central branch may, if they have not done so, get together with the various organisations such as the Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (Soppoa). As a larger grouping, they can make strong representations to the federal government, urging it to help devise a scheme by which foreign labourers could be recruited for the industry on a regular basis. When you are talking about replanting, you still need enough workers to cut down the old trees and plant new ones. True-blue planters will tell you which trees ought to go. Old oil palms are not as productive as young ones. The old stock tends to be of a taller variety, harder to reach for the fruit harvesters. Things will improve once more mechanical harvesters, such as the ‘Lipan’, are available cheaply. Not next year, not the next harvesting season for most plantations in this part of the world, considering the type of terrain in this state. Yes, it is true that the edible oils market is good. More palm oil and its derivatives are required by many countries other than China and India. The BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa are the founding members of this inter-governmental bloc) are potential buyers of our products as long as we keep producing the oil according to the international quality standards set by the Roundtable Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and our own Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO). Other edible oils will always be there to compete with our product, but buyers know what is better for them. My locus standi for this account of the plantation industry is minimal. I learned the basics of plantation management from the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda), Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Felcra) and BAL Estate in Tawau in the early 1970s. It was in Tawau that I learned that the land in Sabah and Sarawak would be suitable for the planting of the palms on a large scale. Come to think of it: what the managers at BAL were telling me made sense. Apparently, they were up to date in terms of the latest information on the trade in edible oils in the world: China and India, potential big buyers of our palm oil. “Money on these trees, Sidi,” said veteran planter Mr Walker, pointing to the young palms at the nursery ready for field planting. These gave me ideas: what to do with Native Customary Rights (NCR) land in Sarawak? Another story, 15 years in Lubok Antu; another article, God-willing. ‘Rubber, cocoa, rice’ It appears that there has been a revival of interest among the people in authority in terms of rehabilitating the rubber plantations in Malaysia. They are talking about doing something about rubber trees that have remained untapped for a long time. It is said that there are about 47,000 hectares of land planted with rubber trees that have not been tapped regularly, according to the Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang. And now, ‘RisSmart24’. What’s that? The Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) has all sorts of ideas by which the rubber industry may be revived. One new initiative is called the ‘RisSMart24’. I would like to see how the scheme will work in Sarawak. Two areas in the state have been earmarked for this scheme – one in Betong, and the other in Samarahan. As of today, I have not been able to get details of the scheme. Who among the owners of the trees, which need to be rehabilitated, are eligible for assistance? Whether or not trees planted on NCR land are eligible for rehabilitation? I wish the authorities would organise a series of talks on the scheme as soon as possible for those interested in it. What about the rubber trees planted under the settlement schemes at Triboh, Melugu, Skrang, Meradong, Sebintek, Lambir and Lubai Tengah? Are they qualified for assistance under this scheme? I used to visit them when I was Secretary of the Sarawak Land Development Board in 1972. I do not know about the condition of the trees now; I hear that parts of the rubber land are now under palms. I won’t be surprised, given the attractive lure of the golden crop. Whatever crops – rubber, or cocoa, or rice, or oil palm – planted on a large scale in this country, aiming for the world market, will face difficulties if there are not enough workers. The rubber tappers are old; the village youngsters are away working in the cities. The rice planters are getting old; the young ones in the village or longhouses will not work in the sun. You need workers from outside, like it or not, and we require them badly. If the government has no new concrete plan for recruiting foreign workers, the planters in the country cannot do much on their own. Perhaps, this is where members of the local branch of ISP could assist in lobbying the federal government for the recruitment of foreign workers. And do not forget to consult the Sarawak government in respect of matters relating to workers entering and working in the state. Give them ideas that the state should have its own agency for the recruitment of foreign workers, and a proper system for registering and monitoring them. You can do all sorts of things with artificial intelligence (AI), but you cannot grow a crop on a computer. That needs human hands – lots of them! * The opinions expressed in this article are the columnist’s own and do not reflect the view of the newspaper.With the massive growth in cryptocurrency adoption, the environmental impact of blockchain technology has become a pressing issue. Many popular blockchain networks, particularly those that use proof-of-work (PoW) mechanisms like Bitcoin, consume significant amounts of electricity, contributing to a large carbon footprint. Sustainable crypto wallet solutions have emerged as a response to this challenge, aiming to reduce the ecological impact of digital finance. Crypto wallets are essential tools for holding, sending, and receiving digital assets, so developing wallets with sustainability in mind can play a major role in reducing the crypto industry’s environmental impact. What Makes a Good Crypto Wallet The top wallet to store crypto is one that prioritizes user control and security, offering users full custody of their funds without relying on third-party access. Features like strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and multi-signature capabilities are essential to protect assets from unauthorized access. A non-custodial wallet, where only the user holds the keys, ensures that no external entity can freeze or limit access to funds, enhancing user autonomy and privacy. In addition to security, versatility is a key factor in a quality wallet. A good crypto wallet supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies across multiple blockchain networks, allowing users to manage diverse portfolios in one place. Furthermore, features such as easy-to-navigate interfaces, integrated access to decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, and compatibility with trusted third-party payment providers make the user experience smooth and accessible for both beginners and seasoned investors. Exploring Eco-Friendly Wallet Technologies Technological advancements are paving the way for more eco-friendly crypto wallets. Many wallet providers are moving away from energy-intensive PoW blockchains toward networks that use proof-of-stake (PoS) mechanisms. PoS networks, such as Ethereum 2.0, Cardano, and Solana, require far less energy than PoW systems. Ethereum’s recent transition to PoS significantly reduced its energy consumption and provided a model for other blockchain projects. Wallets that integrate with PoS networks, or with other low-energy protocols, are helping to make crypto transactions less energy-intensive and more sustainable. Additionally, some wallets are exploring partnerships with green energy providers to offset their environmental impact. Adopting Green Standards in Wallet Development To achieve a sustainable future for digital finance, wallet developers are increasingly adopting green standards in their applications which is the equivalent of construction using eco-friendly building materials. For instance, lightweight wallet applications are designed to use minimal processing power and require less data storage, reducing the energy consumption on the user’s device as well as on the network. By implementing streamlined code and efficient data practices, these wallets aim to minimize their carbon footprint without sacrificing user experience or security. Some wallet providers are also adding carbon tracking features, giving users visibility into the environmental impact of their transactions. Green standards like these are making crypto wallets more sustainable while maintaining essential functionality. Education and Awareness for Sustainable Wallet Use Educating users about the environmental impact of cryptocurrency transactions is an essential part of promoting sustainable crypto wallet use. Many users are unaware of the energy costs associated with certain types of blockchain transactions. Wallet providers have an opportunity to raise awareness by integrating educational resources into their platforms, helping users make environmentally conscious decisions. For example, some wallets are beginning to show carbon emissions data for each transaction, allowing users to see the impact of their actions. Transparency around transaction emissions enables users to adopt greener practices, such as using blockchains with lower environmental impact or reducing the frequency of their transactions. By embedding sustainability information directly into the wallet experience, providers can foster a more eco-conscious approach to crypto usage. Challenges in Developing Sustainable Wallet Solutions Despite advancements in green technology, creating sustainable crypto wallets remains a challenging endeavor. One significant obstacle is that the most widely used cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, still rely on energy-intensive PoW mechanisms . This means that wallets supporting these popular currencies face limitations in achieving full sustainability. Additionally, transitioning wallet infrastructure to eco-friendly standards can be resource-intensive, requiring continuous updates to ensure security and efficiency. Balancing energy efficiency with robust security features is another complex challenge for wallet providers. Moreover, the rapid pace of innovation in the blockchain space requires wallet developers to adapt constantly, making it difficult to maintain a consistent standard of sustainability. Addressing these challenges will require ongoing dedication, innovation, and collaboration across the industry. Carbon Offsetting Initiatives and Partnerships To address the environmental impact of crypto wallets, many providers are turning to carbon offset initiatives. Carbon offsets involve investing in environmental projects that reduce carbon emissions, such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives, to balance out the emissions generated by wallet operations. Some wallet providers are implementing these programs to offset the carbon footprint of transactions processed through their platforms. By participating in carbon offsetting, wallet providers can take an active role in supporting sustainability initiatives. This approach not only helps reduce the ecological impact of digital finance but also raises awareness among users, encouraging them to consider their own environmental impact. Carbon offset programs provide a practical, accessible way for wallets to promote sustainability while still offering users access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies. Renewable Energy and Decentralised Wallets Another promising approach for sustainable crypto wallets is the use of renewable energy sources. Some wallets and blockchain networks are exploring ways to power their servers and data centers with renewable energy, such as wind, solar, and hydropower. This shift to green energy can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of wallets, particularly in high-transaction environments. Decentralized wallets, which operate through a distributed network rather than a central server, could benefit greatly from this approach. By adopting renewable energy at multiple nodes within their network, decentralized wallets could further reduce their environmental impact. As access to renewable energy grows, the adoption of these sustainable practices in the crypto wallet space will become even more feasible. Regulatory Support and Industry Standards Sustainability in crypto wallets is also gaining traction through regulatory support and the development of industry standards. Some governments and regulatory bodies are now introducing policies to encourage eco-friendly practices in the crypto industry. For example, certain regions are providing incentives like tax benefits or grants for companies that implement green practices, including crypto wallet providers. Clear regulatory guidelines for sustainability can help drive the industry towards greener practices. Moreover, industry standards that establish eco-friendly guidelines for wallet developers would create a unified approach, allowing the industry to work collectively toward reducing the environmental impact of cryptocurrency. With regulatory and industry support, sustainable crypto wallets could become a standard across the market. Consumer Demand for Sustainable Wallets Consumer interest in sustainability is growing, and the demand for eco-friendly crypto wallets is following this trend. Many users are increasingly aware of the ecological impact of their financial activities and want options that align with their values. Wallet providers that prioritize sustainability can attract environmentally conscious consumers by offering features like energy-efficient designs, carbon tracking, and renewable energy integrations. In response to this demand, some wallets are now marketing their green initiatives as a unique selling point. As users become more selective, wallets that can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability are likely to gain a competitive edge in the market. By meeting this consumer demand, wallet providers can support environmental goals while expanding their user base. The Role of Innovation in Sustainable Wallet Solutions Innovation is key to advancing sustainability within the crypto wallet industry. Emerging technologies, such as second-layer solutions, offer new possibilities for reducing the environmental impact of crypto transactions. Second-layer solutions , like the Lightning Network for Bitcoin, enable faster and more efficient transactions that consume less energy. This technology allows wallet providers to offer more sustainable options without compromising transaction speed or reliability. Additionally, research into green blockchain protocols and further improvements in PoS networks are likely to provide even more eco-friendly solutions for wallet developers. As the technology continues to evolve, innovation will remain central to creating truly sustainable crypto wallets. The Future of Sustainable Crypto Wallets The future of sustainable crypto wallets appears promising as developers, regulators, and users work together toward a greener crypto ecosystem. Technological innovations, such as energy-efficient blockchains, renewable energy adoption, and carbon offset programs, will continue to play a critical role in shaping the industry’s path to sustainability. Furthermore, collaboration between wallet providers, blockchain networks, and environmental organizations can strengthen the impact of these green initiatives, leading to more comprehensive eco-friendly solutions in the crypto space. As sustainability becomes a priority, wallets that integrate green practices without sacrificing security or performance will set a new standard for the industry. By adopting these sustainable practices, crypto wallets can contribute to global environmental efforts and help ensure a responsible future for digital finance. Conclusion Sustainability is an essential consideration for the future of cryptocurrency, and crypto wallets play a vital role in this journey. From adopting energy-efficient blockchain networks to investing in renewable energy and carbon offset programs, wallet providers have multiple avenues to reduce their environmental impact. As technology advances and consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, crypto wallets that embrace sustainable practices will not only align with user values but also support a healthier planet. While challenges remain, ongoing innovation, regulatory support, and awareness-building can guide the crypto wallet industry toward a more sustainable future. By prioritizing sustainability, crypto wallets can help shape a greener, more responsible cryptocurrency ecosystem, benefiting both users and the global environment.

Coach Ancelotti, with a hint of resignation in his eyes, acknowledges the tough road ahead for Real Madrid. The legendary manager, known for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his teams, faces a formidable challenge in turning the tide for his struggling side. The fans, who have stood by the team through thick and thin, are hoping for a resurgence from Real Madrid as they look to defend their Champions League crown.

On the other hand, supporters of the deal argue that Nvidia's acquisition of Arm could lead to greater innovation and efficiency in the tech industry. Nvidia has a strong track record of developing cutting-edge technologies, and combining its expertise with Arm's resources could unlock new opportunities for growth and development.AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - IKO, a worldwide leader in the roofing, waterproofing and insulation industries for residential and commercial markets, is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of its recent Profit Power events. Hosted at minor league ballparks, these events offered a unique and memorable setting. On October 29, the event took place at Riders Field, home of the Frisco RoughRiders, in Charlotte, NC, followed by Dell Diamond, home of the Round Rock Express, in Austin, TX, on November 7. These were the final two of six events held in 2024. With nearly 200 roofing professionals, industry experts, and thought leaders in attendance at each event, the atmosphere was electric. "IKO's Profit Power events provide practical tips and guidance that roofing businesses can easily implement," said Jack Gottesman, marketing services and loyalty program group director at IKO North America. "The discussions, real-world insights, and actionable strategies shared during these events are designed to help ROOFPRO members stay ahead, innovate, and elevate their businesses. We are immensely thankful to our amazing speakers who brought their A-game and made these events as exciting as they were insightful." Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Get the latest need-to-know information delivered to your inbox as it happens. Our flagship newsletter. Get our front page stories each morning as well as the latest updates each afternoon during the week + more in-depth weekend editions on Saturdays & Sundays.

White House announces nearly $1 billion more in military assistance to UkraineIn today's fast-paced world, financial planning has become a crucial aspect of maintaining stability and securing a bright future. For the three heroes of Aurora, their latest quest involves utilizing their idle funds to purchase medium to low-risk financial products. Let's delve into their journey and explore the intricacies of this strategic financial decision.

Liverpool Football Club is reportedly keeping a close watch on two potential targets, Frlimpong and K77, amidst growing concerns over the possible departures of key players Arnold and Salah. The Reds, who are currently sitting at the top of the Premier League table, are keen on strengthening their squad and have identified these two talents as potential additions to bolster their already impressive roster.

One of the key factors contributing to the steady improvement in corporate credit is the government's commitment to implementing prudent financial policies and regulations. By emphasizing the importance of sound credit practices and risk management, authorities are creating a more transparent and stable financial environment that fosters sustainable economic growth.Ruling may further delay count of Puerto Rico's still-uncertified votes in Nov. 5 electionsIn an exciting revelation for fans of the acclaimed "Uncharted" series, it has been confirmed that "Uncharted 4: A New Adventure for the Four Seas Brothers" will be participating in this year's The Game Awards (TGA). The highly anticipated addition to the beloved franchise has generated immense buzz since its announcement, and this latest news has only heightened anticipation for its release.Why I’m keeping my 2004 beater with 315,000 miles

In conclusion, Maurizio Sarri's coaching at Chelsea has been nothing short of historic. After fifteen games in the Premier League, the Blues find themselves in uncharted territory as the second-best team in the league. With a blend of attacking flair, defensive solidity, and a winning mentality, Sarri has transformed Chelsea into a team to be reckoned with. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how far Sarri can take this talented squad and whether they can maintain their impressive form. The future looks bright at Stamford Bridge under the guidance of the innovative Italian coach.Stuart Bingham on last Zhang Anda meeting: ‘I absolutely hammered him’

Cambridge University historian Yasmin Khan describes how India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru tackled a national crisis of gigantic proportions created by the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi within months of gaining independence, and how the funeral and mourning were designed by him to build a united and secular ‘Nehruvian’ India. The assassination of Mahatma Gandhi by a Hindu fanatic on January 31, 1948 in New Delhi, though immeasurably unsettling, played a seminal role in uniting a conflict-ridden India both emotionally and politically, says Cambridge University historian Prof. Yasmin Khan in her paper in Modern Asian Studies (Vol 45, Issue 1, Jan. 2011). The elaborate State funeral and the 14-day nation-wide memorialisation which followed, played a seminal role in giving newly independent India a firm foundation marked by unity and secularism, that was the need of the hour after the partition of India in 1947 that was marked by mass killings and mass migration between India and Pakistan. India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru thoughtfully used the assassination of the Father of the Nation to build India after his heart as well as strengthen the new born Indian State and legitimise the leadership of the Congress party, says Prof. Khan. She shows how the Congress Government headed by Jawaharlal Nehru managed to mitigate the high voltage Hindu-Muslim tension that gripped the newly independent country following the assassination of the much-revered Gandhi. As India faced the prospect of another carnage, Nehru, backed by Governor General Lord Mountbatten, planned a grand State (military) funeral and a 14-day memorialisation programme with three objectives: (1) Bring out the innate mass appeal of Gandhi’s philosophy based on non-violence and communal harmony; (2)Legitimise the new Government; (3) Strengthen secularism and its votary, the Congress party. Public support The assassination revived the cult of Gandhi that was waning in the final years of the British Raj. From 1946 on, Gandhi was no longer at the centre of decision-making in the Congress because his opposition to partition on the basis of religion seemed to be utopian. He was also misunderstood by Hindu and Muslim extremists, with the Hindus branding him a lackey of the Muslims and the Muslims seeing him as a covert agent of the Hindus. But his assassination at the hands of Hindu extremist, Nathuram Vinayak Godse, brought into the open the huge reservoir of public support Gandhi really enjoyed, totally disproportionate to the then image of him as an out-of-date politician. Given the creation of Pakistan only a year earlier, Hindus at first thought that the assassin was a Muslim and an anti-Muslim pogrom seemed imminent. But the Nehru Government strained every nerve to disabuse Hindus of the dangerous notion. Melville de Mellow and other announcers of All India Radio repeatedly broadcast that the alleged assassin was a “Hindu fanatic, not a Muslim”. This brought the searing communal temperature down dramatically. Public outpouring of grief was of epic proportions, says Prof. Khan. It seemed that what the apostle of peace and Hindu-Muslim harmony could not achieve in his lifetime, he did upon his violent death. Of course as a precautionary measure the Government banned the Hindu Rashtra Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and arrested over thousands of them. It also banned the Muslim National Guards and the Khaksars. Importantly, Nehru used the communal calm to speed up the drafting of a secular and democratic Indian Constitution, finalising it by 1949 and putting it into effect in January 1950 within two years of Gandhi’s assassination. Acutely aware that in a country as rooted in tradition as India is, the pomp and show of Gandhi’s funeral was a mix of State pageantry and traditional Hindu funeral rituals. Nehru was aware that independent India will have to be both a powerful State and one shaped by tradition. The funeral and the mourning exhibited both aspects. The bier was not carried by kinsmen as is the Hindu practice, but placed on a converted gun carriage. The ‘militarism’ of the funeral was also striking. According to Prof. Khan 4000 troops, 1,000 armed men, 100 police and 100 navy men marched in the funeral procession. These were drawn from units of the Indian army such as the Rajputana Rifles, Madras Regiment, Bengal Sappers and Miners, Indian Signal Corps, armoured vehicles and the mounted cavalry of the General-Governor’s Body Guard. The gun carriage was pulled by troops, with relatives and other disciples on foot in front of it. ‘Son and heir’ “Baldev Singh (Defence Minister), Nehru and Sardar Patel (Home Minister) were seated alongside the body in the main vehicle itself, with Gandhi’s son, Devdas Gandhi, as the chief mourner, seated at the head of the vehicle. The kinship of the leading Congressmen with Gandhi was therefore visibly emphasised with Nehru naturally assuming the role of ‘son and heir’, Prof. Khan states. Through the procession, the Indian State had made Gandhi its totem and also legitimising the leadership of Gandhi’s declared heir, Jawaharlal Nehru. And backing Nehru was his friend in the British Raj, Governor General Lord Mounbatten. According to Khan, Mountbatten was the hidden hand behind the planning of the Statist pageantry of the funeral procession. In fact, the funeral procession was commanded by the British Indian army chief, Gen. Sir Roy Bucher. However, at the cremation ground Raj Ghat, all the trappings of the modern State fell off and traditional Hindu rites took over. Gandhi’s other son, Ramdas Gandhi performed the lighting of the pyre as the attending priest, Pandit Ram Dhan Sharma, recited Vedic texts. People frantically picked up relics of Gandhi for preservation. “There was a great scramble and a diligent search for small twigs of the sandal chips near the pyre and many were seen, with the greatest reverence, picking up withered and trodden rose petals, picking up twigs from the mound of wreaths or bits of ash blown by the breeze,” Prof Khan writes. Most significantly, the fortnight of national mourning declared by the Congress leadership coincided with the holding of the Ardh Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, or Prayag at the confluence of three rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, which is held every six years and at which thousands of sadhus and pilgrims gather for a mass ritual bathing to cleans past sins. At the Ardh Kumbh Mela, thousands of pilgrims prayed in front of a large portrait of the Mahatma which had been placed on a dais with a Charkha (spinning wheel) in front of it, and the Quran and the Gita on either side of it. The dais had become a temple with many offering coins as is done in temples to various Hindu deities. The Gandhi cult had become part of folk Hinduism. Gandhi’s ashes Gandhi’s ashes were immersed in the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati in Allahabad as per custom. And significantly, the ashes were taken to every State in India to be immersed in the local holy river. They were also taken to Hyderabad and Rampur in North India, which saw communal riots during the partition. Here too the ashes were reverentially accepted and immersed in the local waters solemnly underscoring the healing of communal wounds. The parcelling out of the ashes to all States of India played a role in linking reverence for Gandhi to the authority of the Congress and the new Indian State. Condolence meetings were held in mosques, churches, temples, educational institutions, bar associations and Congress committees. Prof.Khan points out that these moments were utilised to square conflicts and provided an extraordinary outlet for reconciliation which would otherwise have been unavailable. Giving an instance of accommodation following a conflict, a disputed plot of land contested by Hindus and Muslims in Bangla Bazaar, a suburb of Lucknow, was dedicated as a space to raise a memorial to Gandhi instead.

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