As clamour grows for a ceasefire to be declared in the besieged Gaza city, reports are emerging that Qatar is negotiating with Israel and Hamas for the potential release of 10 to 15 hostages held in Gaza in exchange for a brief ceasefire.

“Negotiations mediated by the Qataris in coordination with the US are ongoing to secure the release of 10-15 hostages in exchange for a one- to two-day ceasefire,” a source close to the development told AFP news agency on Wednesday (Nov 8).

The source further said that Qatar is trying to clinch a deal on a three-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip so that essential humanitarian aid from Egypt reaches the region.

“Talks revolve around the release of 12 hostages, half of them Americans, in exchange for a three-day humanitarian pause, to enable Hamas to release the hostages and to enable Egypt an extended (period of time) to deliver humanitarian aid,” the source said.

The terror group is holding 239 hostages, including 25 Thai nationals, 21 Argentinians, 18 Germans, 10 Americans, seven French, seven Russians, four Hungarians, three Poles, three Portuguese, two Brits, two Filipinos, two Romanians and two Tanzanians.

The developments come after G7 countries called for “humanitarian pauses” to expedite humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and foreign ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Italy emphasised that they “support humanitarian pauses to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement and release of hostages", reported AP news agency.

<h2>Top Hamas weapon maker&nbsp;killed</h2>

Meanwhile, Israel on Tuesday said its troops killed a top Hamas weapons maker.

Mahsein Abu Zina was killed by two separate Israeli strikes.

According to Palestine's health department, Israeli bombardment has killed over 10,000 Palestinians since October 7.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-falls-short-of-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-as-israel-hamas-war-rages-on-656560">G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire as Israel-Hamas war rages on</a>

<h2>Hamas 'loses control’ in north of Gaza</h2>

Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari claimed that the Hamas terror group has lost control of the northern Gaza Strip as thousands of Palestinians head towards the south in search of safety, water, food and medicine not available in the north.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-mr-security-hes-mr-bullst-former-israeli-pm-slams-netanyahus-plans-for-post-war-gaza-656618">Not ‘Mr Security. He’s Mr Bulls**t’: Former Israeli PM slams Netanyahu’s plans for post-war Gaza</a>

He also said that the north-south evacuation route — which has been opened for specific windows of a few hours over the past few days —would be open tomorrow, and urged people to "leave the clutches of Hamas".

He said 50,000 people had left the Gaza City area today (Nov 8).

(With inputs from agencies)

As clamour grows for a ceasefire to be declared in the besieged Gaza city, reports are emerging that Qatar is negotiating with Israel and Hamas for the potential release of 10 to 15 hostages held in Gaza in exchange for a brief ceasefire.

As clamour grows for a ceasefire to be declared in the besieged Gaza city, reports are emerging that Qatar is negotiating with Israel and Hamas for the potential release of 10 to 15 hostages held in Gaza in exchange for a brief ceasefire. “Negotiations mediated by the Qataris in coordination with the US are ongoing to secure the release of 10-15 hostages in exchange for a one- to two-day ceasefire,” a source close to the development told AFP news agency on Wednesday (Nov 8). The source further said that Qatar is trying to clinch a deal on a three-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip so that essential humanitarian aid from Egypt reaches the region. “Talks revolve around the release of 12 hostages, half of them Americans, in exchange for a three-day humanitarian pause, to enable Hamas to release the hostages and to enable Egypt an extended (period of time) to deliver humanitarian aid,” the source said. The terror group is holding 239 hostages, including 25 Thai nationals, 21 Argentinians, 18 Germans, 10 Americans, seven French, seven Russians, four Hungarians, three Poles, three Portuguese, two Brits, two Filipinos, two Romanians and two Tanzanians. The developments come after G7 countries called for “humanitarian pauses” to expedite humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and foreign ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Italy emphasised that they “support humanitarian pauses to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement and release of hostages", reported AP news agency. Top Hamas weapon maker killed Meanwhile, Israel on Tuesday said its troops killed a top Hamas weapons maker. Mahsein Abu Zina was killed by two separate Israeli strikes. According to Palestine's health department, Israeli bombardment has killed over 10,000 Palestinians since October 7. Also read | G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire as Israel-Hamas war rages on Hamas 'loses control’ in north of Gaza Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari claimed that the Hamas terror group has lost control of the northern Gaza Strip as thousands of Palestinians head towards the south in search of safety, water, food and medicine not available in the north. Also read | Not ‘Mr Security. He’s Mr Bulls**t’: Former Israeli PM slams Netanyahu’s plans for post-war Gaza He also said that the north-south evacuation route — which has been opened for specific windows of a few hours over the past few days —would be open tomorrow, and urged people to "leave the clutches of Hamas". He said 50,000 people had left the Gaza City area today (Nov 8). (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war updates: Qatar brokering deal for hostage release, top Hamas weapon maker killed

Israeli army releases video of Hamas tunnels being destroyed.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas tunnels being destroyed | Videos released by the Israeli Army

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament is slated to start on December 4, and will continue till December 22, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Thursday (Nov 9).&nbsp;

The session will be spread over 19 days, and will have 15 sittings, the minister added.

"Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. &nbsp;Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session," he said on social media platform X.

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Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinterSession2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinterSession2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/KiboOyFxk0">pic.twitter.com/KiboOyFxk0</a>
— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshiPralhad/status/1722590861333319681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The winter session usually begins around November, but owing to assembly elections in five states — Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Telangana—it has been deferred to December.

<h2>Bills expected to be taken up in session&nbsp;</h2>

Though it is not declared officially what bills would be taken up in the session, it is widely believed that legislation pertaining to appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (EC) would be taken up.&nbsp;

Introduced during the Monsoon session, the government could not table the bill during the special session of Parliament, given the opposition and former Chief Election Commissioners' protests.

The government seeks to elevate the status of the CEC and ECs to that of the Cabinet Secretary, currently enjoying the status of a Supreme Court judge.

Apart from that, another key legislation would be tabled that seeks to replace the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Evidence Act during the session as the standing committee on Home has already adopted the three reports recently.

On August 11, Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills in the Lok Sabha that aim to repeal and replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, which were enacted during the British rule in India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-files-appeal-against-death-sentence-awarded-to-eight-citizens-in-qatar-656941">India files appeal against death sentence awarded to eight citizens in Qatar</a>

The bills are:&nbsp;Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita Bill, 2023, which will replace the&nbsp;IPC, 1860, the&nbsp;Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, which will replace the&nbsp;CrPC&nbsp;1898; and the&nbsp;Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023, which will replace the&nbsp;Evidence Act, 1872.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-minister-ktr-rao-others-fall-down-from-vehicle-during-election-rally-in-telangana-656939">Watch | Indian minister KTR Rao, others fall down from vehicle during election rally in Telangana</a>

The report of the Ethics Committee on the 'cash-for-query' allegations against TMC MP Mahua Moitra is also expected to be tabled in the Lok Sabha during the session. The House will have to adopt the report before the expulsion recommended by the panel comes into effect.

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament is slated to start on December 4, and will continue till December 22, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Thursday (Nov 9).

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament is slated to start on December 4, and will continue till December 22, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Thursday (Nov 9). The session will be spread over 19 days, and will have 15 sittings, the minister added. "Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session," he said on social media platform X. Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session.#WinterSession2023 pic.twitter.com/KiboOyFxk0 — Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) November 9, 2023 × The winter session usually begins around November, but owing to assembly elections in five states — Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Telangana—it has been deferred to December. Bills expected to be taken up in session Though it is not declared officially what bills would be taken up in the session, it is widely believed that legislation pertaining to appointing the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (EC) would be taken up. Introduced during the Monsoon session, the government could not table the bill during the special session of Parliament, given the opposition and former Chief Election Commissioners' protests. The government seeks to elevate the status of the CEC and ECs to that of the Cabinet Secretary, currently enjoying the status of a Supreme Court judge. Apart from that, another key legislation would be tabled that seeks to replace the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Evidence Act during the session as the standing committee on Home has already adopted the three reports recently. On August 11, Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills in the Lok Sabha that aim to repeal and replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, which were enacted during the British rule in India. Also read | India files appeal against death sentence awarded to eight citizens in Qatar The bills are: Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita Bill, 2023, which will replace the IPC, 1860, the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, which will replace the CrPC 1898; and the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023, which will replace the Evidence Act, 1872. Also read | Watch | Indian minister KTR Rao, others fall down from vehicle during election rally in Telangana The report of the Ethics Committee on the 'cash-for-query' allegations against TMC MP Mahua Moitra is also expected to be tabled in the Lok Sabha during the session. The House will have to adopt the report before the expulsion recommended by the panel comes into effect.

Indian Parliament's winter session to begin on Dec 4, to have 15 sittings

India on Thursday (Nov 9) said it has filed an appeal in Qatar over the death sentence awarded to eight Indians, who had been working at a company in Doha, in an alleged case of espionage.

On November 7, the Indian embassy in Doha secured additional consular access to the detainees, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a weekly press briefing.

"Qatar has a court of first instance that gave the judgment on eight Indian employees. The judgement is confidential and has only been shared with the legal team. They are now pursuing further legal steps, and an appeal has been filed. We will also remain engaged with the Qatari authorities on this matter," he said.

<h2>Eight Indians kept in confinement since August 2022&nbsp;</h2>

The Indian men were arrested by Qatari authorities in August 2022, and have been kept in detention without specifying the crimes committed by them. The Court of First Instance of Qatar passed the judgment against them. All of them worked for&nbsp;Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services.

Those sentenced have been identified as Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vasisht, Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, and Sanjeev Gupta. Their trial began on March 29 after bail pleas were rejected. Bagchi also said that the Indian authorities are in constant touch with the aggrieved families.

"We are in touch with the family... if you remember, the External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) met their family in Delhi. We will continue to extend all possible legal and consular support," he said.

<h2>Jaishankaer met aggrieved families&nbsp;</h2>

On October 30, Jaishankar met the families and said that he shares their pain and concern.

&nbsp;"Met this morning with the families of the 8 Indians detained in Qatar. Stressed that Government attaches the highest importance to the case. Fully share the concerns and pain of the families. Underlined that the Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release. Will coordinate closely with the families in that regard," he said on X.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL4LOC_baCAxUG3jgGHR0cCoEQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-s-jaishankar-meets-families-of-indian-detained-in-qatar-652873" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-s-jaishankar-meets-families-of-indian-detained-in-qatar-652873&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL4LOC_baCAxUG3jgGHR0cCoEQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">India`s EAM S Jaishankar meets families of Indians detained in Qatar</a>

After the verdict was announced, India's foreign minister had expressed shocked and stressed that it would take up the issue with Qatari authorities.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjL4LOC_baCAxUG3jgGHR0cCoEQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carrot-or-stick-what-can-india-do-to-seek-concessions-from-qatar-on-espionage-row-651835" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/carrot-or-stick-what-can-india-do-to-seek-concessions-from-qatar-on-espionage-row-651835&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjL4LOC_baCAxUG3jgGHR0cCoEQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Carrot or stick: What can India do to seek concessions from Qatar on espionage row?</a>

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," the ministry had said.

India on Thursday (Nov 9) said it has filed an appeal in Qatar over the death sentence awarded to eight Indians, who had been working at a company in Doha, in an alleged case of espionage.

India on Thursday (Nov 9) said it has filed an appeal in Qatar over the death sentence awarded to eight Indians, who had been working at a company in Doha, in an alleged case of espionage. On November 7, the Indian embassy in Doha secured additional consular access to the detainees, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a weekly press briefing. "Qatar has a court of first instance that gave the judgment on eight Indian employees. The judgement is confidential and has only been shared with the legal team. They are now pursuing further legal steps, and an appeal has been filed. We will also remain engaged with the Qatari authorities on this matter," he said. Eight Indians kept in confinement since August 2022 The Indian men were arrested by Qatari authorities in August 2022, and have been kept in detention without specifying the crimes committed by them. The Court of First Instance of Qatar passed the judgment against them. All of them worked for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services. Those sentenced have been identified as Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vasisht, Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, and Sanjeev Gupta. Their trial began on March 29 after bail pleas were rejected. Bagchi also said that the Indian authorities are in constant touch with the aggrieved families. "We are in touch with the family... if you remember, the External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) met their family in Delhi. We will continue to extend all possible legal and consular support," he said. Jaishankaer met aggrieved families On October 30, Jaishankar met the families and said that he shares their pain and concern. "Met this morning with the families of the 8 Indians detained in Qatar. Stressed that Government attaches the highest importance to the case. Fully share the concerns and pain of the families. Underlined that the Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release. Will coordinate closely with the families in that regard," he said on X. Also read | India`s EAM S Jaishankar meets families of Indians detained in Qatar After the verdict was announced, India's foreign minister had expressed shocked and stressed that it would take up the issue with Qatari authorities. Also read | Carrot or stick: What can India do to seek concessions from Qatar on espionage row? "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," the ministry had said.

India files appeal against death sentence awarded to eight citizens in Qatar

India carried the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB ) cases in the world in 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a report.

The WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023 released on Tuesday said that around 87 per cent of the world's total cases in 2022 emerged from 30 high TB-burden countries, with two-third of the cases registered from eight countries.&nbsp;

India with 27 per cent ranked highest, followed by Indonesia (10 per cent), China (7.1 per cent), the Philippines (7 per cent), Pakistan (5.7 per cent), Nigeria (4.5 per cent), Bangladesh (3.6 per cent) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (3 per cent).

In India, 2.8 million cases of TB was registered and of them, 342,000 people (12 per cent) died due to the disease, the report said.&nbsp;

<h2>Silver lining&nbsp;</h2>

In a press release, WHO later lauded India for a reduction in TB cases, but noted that the progress was insufficient to meet global targets set in 2018, with disruptions caused by COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts.&nbsp;

It said that the “net decrease in TB-related deaths from 2015 to 2022 was 19 per cent, falling far short of the WHO End TB Strategy milestone of a 75 percent reduction by 2025”.&nbsp;

"The cumulative reduction in the TB incidence rate from 2015 to 2022 was 8.7 per cent, far from the WHO End TB Strategy milestone of a 50 percent reduction by 2025,” the WHO said, adding that about 50 per cent of TB patients and their households face “total costs that are catastrophic, far from the WHO End TB Strategy target of zero”.

These costs include “direct medical expenditures, non-medical expenditures, and indirect costs such as income losses that amount to more than 20 percent of total household income”, said the release.&nbsp;

<h2>India's response</h2>

The Union Health Ministry, however, highlighted positive aspects of the WHO report which it said acknowledged India's success in reducing number of TB cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-minister-drops-crucial-dates-when-city-could-experience-artificial-rain-656602">Delhi's pollution woes likely to be solved by artificial rain after IIT Kanpur steps in</a>

It said that the report highlighted India's significant progress made in improving case detection and reversing the impact of COVID-19 on tuberculosis (TB) programme.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-kind-of-fireworks-are-allowed-across-india-after-scs-ban-on-crackers-656669">Explained | What kind of fireworks are allowed across India after SC's ban on crackers?</a>

India’s efforts have resulted in the reduction of TB incidence by 16 per cent from 2015 to 2022, almost double the pace at which global TB incidence is declining, which is 8.7 per cent.

TB mortality has also reduced by 18% during the same period in India, the ministry said.

“The WHO has made a downward revision of TB mortality rates from 4.94 lakh in 2021 to 3.31 lakh in 2022, a reduction of over 34%,’’ a release issued by the health ministry said.

India carried the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB ) cases in the world in 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a report. The WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023 released on Tuesday said that around 87 per cent of the world's total cases in 2022 emerged from 30 high TB-burden countries, with two-third of the cases registered from eight countries.

India carried the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB ) cases in the world in 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a report. The WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023 released on Tuesday said that around 87 per cent of the world's total cases in 2022 emerged from 30 high TB-burden countries, with two-third of the cases registered from eight countries. India with 27 per cent ranked highest, followed by Indonesia (10 per cent), China (7.1 per cent), the Philippines (7 per cent), Pakistan (5.7 per cent), Nigeria (4.5 per cent), Bangladesh (3.6 per cent) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (3 per cent). In India, 2.8 million cases of TB was registered and of them, 342,000 people (12 per cent) died due to the disease, the report said. Silver lining In a press release, WHO later lauded India for a reduction in TB cases, but noted that the progress was insufficient to meet global targets set in 2018, with disruptions caused by COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts. It said that the “net decrease in TB-related deaths from 2015 to 2022 was 19 per cent, falling far short of the WHO End TB Strategy milestone of a 75 percent reduction by 2025”. "The cumulative reduction in the TB incidence rate from 2015 to 2022 was 8.7 per cent, far from the WHO End TB Strategy milestone of a 50 percent reduction by 2025,” the WHO said, adding that about 50 per cent of TB patients and their households face “total costs that are catastrophic, far from the WHO End TB Strategy target of zero”. These costs include “direct medical expenditures, non-medical expenditures, and indirect costs such as income losses that amount to more than 20 percent of total household income”, said the release. India's response The Union Health Ministry, however, highlighted positive aspects of the WHO report which it said acknowledged India's success in reducing number of TB cases. Also read | Delhi's pollution woes likely to be solved by artificial rain after IIT Kanpur steps in It said that the report highlighted India's significant progress made in improving case detection and reversing the impact of COVID-19 on tuberculosis (TB) programme. Also read | Explained | What kind of fireworks are allowed across India after SC's ban on crackers? India’s efforts have resulted in the reduction of TB incidence by 16 per cent from 2015 to 2022, almost double the pace at which global TB incidence is declining, which is 8.7 per cent. TB mortality has also reduced by 18% during the same period in India, the ministry said. “The WHO has made a downward revision of TB mortality rates from 4.94 lakh in 2021 to 3.31 lakh in 2022, a reduction of over 34%,’’ a release issued by the health ministry said.

India accounted for world's highest burden of tuberculosis cases in 2022: WHO report 

Spain's Socialists have reached a deal with the Catalan separatist Junts party for government support, a source close to the negotiations told Reuters on Thursday, a pact which could draw strong criticism if it involves amnesties for separatist activists.

The Socialist Party (PSOE) did not immediately respond to request for comment, while a spokesman for Junts declined to comment. Asked about a deal, Acting Economy Minister Nadia Calviño said on Thursday: "I hope we have a government as soon as possible."

Spain's acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and his Socialist Party are trying to form a government after a July&nbsp;election&nbsp;produced no outright winner.

He reached a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;to govern in coalition with the hard left Sumar platform last month but also needs several other smaller parties - who have supported him in the past - to back him in an investiture vote that could take place as soon as next week.

Junts has said during negotiations that it would give its seven votes in parliament in exchange for an amnesty law that could exculpate as many as&nbsp;1,400 activists&nbsp;and politicians involved in a failed attempt to separate Catalonia from the rest of Spain that reached a head in 2017.

The potential&nbsp;amnesty&nbsp;has met fierce condemnation from Sanchez's conservative opponents who have organised large&nbsp;protests&nbsp;and accused him of putting the rule of law in Spain on the line for his own political gain.

Reacting to the news of a deal on Thursday, the main opposition centre-right People's Party spokesman Cuca Gamarra said Spain was looking at "a shameful and humiliating deal," while the popular - and populist - PP Madrid leader Isabel Ayuso told Antena 3 TV station: "I am worried that we are becoming a dictatorship."

<h2 data-testid="Heading">'Serious concerns' about amnesty plan&nbsp;</h2>

On Wednesday, the European Commission's Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders wrote to the Spanish government asking for more details about the amnesty agreement being negotiated.

"Serious concerns are now being voiced as regards ongoing discussions on the possible adoption of an amnesty law," he wrote in a letter to Spanish Presidency Minister Felipe Bolanos.

"While for the time being there is no formal proposal, this has become a matter of considerable importance in the public debate and the Commission has been contacted on this matter, including by a large number of citizens."

Bolanos responded on Wednesday, saying: "Should an amnesty bill be registered [in parliament], be assured that we will explain to you all the details of such a law, as well as the position of our government."

The potential amnesty has also drawn&nbsp;fire&nbsp;from Spanish judges who warned this week it could undermine the rule of law - a shot across the bows for a law that Catalan separatist parties fear could be watered down by judges in its implementation in individual cases, regardless of what the socialists and Junts agree.

Pablo Simon, a political expert at the Carlos III University in Madrid, said that fear was legitimate.

"Unlike the pardons which the governments gave out to (individual) Catalan separatists, the amnesty law will take much longer to be processed, going through parliament, with each case reviewed by judges," he told TVE television on Thursday.

Spain's Socialists have reached a deal with the Catalan separatist Junts party for government support, a source close to the negotiations told Reuters on Thursday, a pact which could draw strong criticism if it involves amnesties for separatist activists.

Spain's Socialists have reached a deal with the Catalan separatist Junts party for government support, a source close to the negotiations told Reuters on Thursday, a pact which could draw strong criticism if it involves amnesties for separatist activists. The Socialist Party (PSOE) did not immediately respond to request for comment, while a spokesman for Junts declined to comment. Asked about a deal, Acting Economy Minister Nadia Calviño said on Thursday: "I hope we have a government as soon as possible." Spain's acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and his Socialist Party are trying to form a government after a July election produced no outright winner. He reached a deal to govern in coalition with the hard left Sumar platform last month but also needs several other smaller parties - who have supported him in the past - to back him in an investiture vote that could take place as soon as next week. Junts has said during negotiations that it would give its seven votes in parliament in exchange for an amnesty law that could exculpate as many as 1,400 activists and politicians involved in a failed attempt to separate Catalonia from the rest of Spain that reached a head in 2017. The potential amnesty has met fierce condemnation from Sanchez's conservative opponents who have organised large protests and accused him of putting the rule of law in Spain on the line for his own political gain. Reacting to the news of a deal on Thursday, the main opposition centre-right People's Party spokesman Cuca Gamarra said Spain was looking at "a shameful and humiliating deal," while the popular - and populist - PP Madrid leader Isabel Ayuso told Antena 3 TV station: "I am worried that we are becoming a dictatorship." 'Serious concerns' about amnesty plan On Wednesday, the European Commission's Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders wrote to the Spanish government asking for more details about the amnesty agreement being negotiated. "Serious concerns are now being voiced as regards ongoing discussions on the possible adoption of an amnesty law," he wrote in a letter to Spanish Presidency Minister Felipe Bolanos. "While for the time being there is no formal proposal, this has become a matter of considerable importance in the public debate and the Commission has been contacted on this matter, including by a large number of citizens." Bolanos responded on Wednesday, saying: "Should an amnesty bill be registered [in parliament], be assured that we will explain to you all the details of such a law, as well as the position of our government." The potential amnesty has also drawn fire from Spanish judges who warned this week it could undermine the rule of law - a shot across the bows for a law that Catalan separatist parties fear could be watered down by judges in its implementation in individual cases, regardless of what the socialists and Junts agree. Pablo Simon, a political expert at the Carlos III University in Madrid, said that fear was legitimate. "Unlike the pardons which the governments gave out to (individual) Catalan separatists, the amnesty law will take much longer to be processed, going through parliament, with each case reviewed by judges," he told TVE television on Thursday.

Spanish Socialists reach deal with Catalan separatist party for government support: Report

Don’t add a lot of extra information and details that you usually would not. The other person may wonder why you are talking so much. Also, you may start to provide details that do not make sense.


If you do not tell the lie like you believe it, the other person will not believe you either. Believe that you can successfully deceive the other person

Drink a lot of water 45 minutes before you plan to tell your lie. This will only work if you have to pee while you are telling the lie. Practicing self-control earlier in the day will not help you when it is time to tell your lie.


Avoid covering your mouth, throat, chest, head, or stomach when you are lying. These are all signs that you are not telling the truth


Also avoid making excessive eye contact. You naturally look away and move your eyes around when you talk.


One sign that someone is under stress is a hard, gulping kind of swallow. It doesn't necessarily mean that they're lying, but it does mean that something is getting to them


How to Tell a Lie Without Being Caught

It was a Tuesday worth remembering for the Democrats as the party&nbsp;reaped significant gains in the off-year elections in some states, offering them a glimmer of hope ahead of the 2024 US presidential polls.

In two states, Democrats-backed candidates were handed victory, while in Ohio, the abortion rights activists prevailed over the naysayers, which experts believe would set the tone for national debates in the upcoming presidential polls.

The off-year elections are considered to be the bellwether of the 2024 presidential elections, and it is believed that Tuesday’s win would have major implications in US politics.

<h2>Democrats win in Trump’s county</h2>

Kentucky has historically elected the Republicans in the national elections. Donald Trump’s victory by a wide margin in 2020 is a testament to that.

But incumbent Democrat Governor Andy Beshear won a second term against Republican rival Daniel Cameron.

While Beshear’s first term was focused on his response to a series of natural disasters and the pandemic, his re-election campaign harped on abortion rights.

He portrayed Republican Cameron as too extreme on the issue, pointing to his support for the state’s abortion ban, which lacks exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest.

<h2>Once wrongfully jailed, now a member of New York City Council</h2>

Yusef Salaam was wrongfully jailed in an infamous rape case. He was one of five black and Hispanic boys who were wrongfully accused of raping a jogger in Central Park in 1989.

The case gripped New York City and the group became known as the Central Park Five.

Salaam, who was 15 at the time, was jailed for several years before a serial rapist confessed to the crime and the group's convictions were vacated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-votes-to-legalise-recreational-marijuana-but-opponents-say-fight-not-over-656440">Ohio votes to legalise recreational marijuana but opponents say ‘fight not over’</a>

On Tuesday (Nov 7), Salaam, a Democrat, was elected unopposed to a central Harlem district in one of many local elections held across New York state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-voters-add-abortion-rights-to-states-constitution-approve-marijuana-legalisation-656366">Ohio voters add abortion rights to state’s constitution, Biden says 'MAGA lost'</a>

He had won the Democratic primary in July that assured his election.

"For me, this means that we can really become our ancestors' wildest dreams," Salaam said in an interview before the polls.

<h2>Abortion remains a top issue in Ohio</h2>

In Ohio, voters backed an amendment to the state's constitution that will guarantee abortion rights, marking a major victory for pro-choice campaigners in the state.

According to CBS News, about 57 per cent of voters in the conservative-leaning state backed the measure.

The amendment will change the state's constitution to include protections for abortion access. It will establish "an individual right to one's own reproductive medical treatment", including abortion, contraception and miscarriage care. It will take effect on December 7, 30 days after the election.

The success in Kentucky and Ohio has significantly bolstered the Democrats' hopes that abortion rights remain a winning issue ahead of elections in 2024.

(With inputs from agencies)

It was a Tuesday worth remembering for the Democrats as the party reaped significant gains in the off-year elections in some states, offering them a glimmer of hope ahead of the 2024 US presidential polls.

It was a Tuesday worth remembering for the Democrats as the party reaped significant gains in the off-year elections in some states, offering them a glimmer of hope ahead of the 2024 US presidential polls. In two states, Democrats-backed candidates were handed victory, while in Ohio, the abortion rights activists prevailed over the naysayers, which experts believe would set the tone for national debates in the upcoming presidential polls. The off-year elections are considered to be the bellwether of the 2024 presidential elections, and it is believed that Tuesday’s win would have major implications in US politics. Democrats win in Trump’s county Kentucky has historically elected the Republicans in the national elections. Donald Trump’s victory by a wide margin in 2020 is a testament to that. But incumbent Democrat Governor Andy Beshear won a second term against Republican rival Daniel Cameron. While Beshear’s first term was focused on his response to a series of natural disasters and the pandemic, his re-election campaign harped on abortion rights. He portrayed Republican Cameron as too extreme on the issue, pointing to his support for the state’s abortion ban, which lacks exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest. Once wrongfully jailed, now a member of New York City Council Yusef Salaam was wrongfully jailed in an infamous rape case. He was one of five black and Hispanic boys who were wrongfully accused of raping a jogger in Central Park in 1989. The case gripped New York City and the group became known as the Central Park Five. Salaam, who was 15 at the time, was jailed for several years before a serial rapist confessed to the crime and the group's convictions were vacated. Also read | Ohio votes to legalise recreational marijuana but opponents say ‘fight not over’ On Tuesday (Nov 7), Salaam, a Democrat, was elected unopposed to a central Harlem district in one of many local elections held across New York state. Also read | Ohio voters add abortion rights to state’s constitution, Biden says 'MAGA lost' He had won the Democratic primary in July that assured his election. "For me, this means that we can really become our ancestors' wildest dreams," Salaam said in an interview before the polls. Abortion remains a top issue in Ohio In Ohio, voters backed an amendment to the state's constitution that will guarantee abortion rights, marking a major victory for pro-choice campaigners in the state. According to CBS News, about 57 per cent of voters in the conservative-leaning state backed the measure. The amendment will change the state's constitution to include protections for abortion access. It will establish "an individual right to one's own reproductive medical treatment", including abortion, contraception and miscarriage care. It will take effect on December 7, 30 days after the election. The success in Kentucky and Ohio has significantly bolstered the Democrats' hopes that abortion rights remain a winning issue ahead of elections in 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Big win for Democrats in Kentucky, Ohio and New York: Here’s a round-up of off-year elections

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges&nbsp;in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8).

Moitra is currently under the lens of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee after Dubey first raised the allegations.

"On the basis of my complaint, Lokpal has ordered a CBI probe into the Mahua Moitra's corruption that compromises national security," the BJP MP said on X in Hindi.

Dubey had approached the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on October 21, accusing Moitra of accepting bribes for asking questions in parliament at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani.

<h2>What is the cash-for-query scam?</h2>

Dubey had earlier claimed to have received a letter from a lawyer named Jai Anant Dehadrai stating that Moitra accepted "cash and gifts" from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in order to "ask questions in Parliament" to target his rival Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He said the letter reveals indisputable proof of bribes exchanged between Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani.

The BJP MP further alleged that Moitra shared her parliamentary login with the businessman, and in doing so, compromised national security.

Darshan Hiranandani later admitted to the login sharing in an explosive affidavit but did not mention the cash for query issue, claiming that he had given gifts to Moitra as she had demanded.

There are allegations that Moitra's login was used multiple times from Dubai, where Hiranandani currently resides. &nbsp;

<h2>Acrimonious scenes in ethics panel&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The TMC leader had also accepted that she shared her login ID, but claimed that the protocols of sharing credentials were not shared with the MPs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nitish-kumar-sex-remark-pm-modi-says-cm-has-no-shame-as-latter-takes-his-words-back-656545">Nitish Kumar sex remark: Modi says CM has 'no shame' as latter apologises</a>

On November 2, Moitra appeared before the ethics panel to record her oral evidence on the allegations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-police-arrest-two-militants-in-manipur-following-alleged-abduction-of-two-teens-656462">India: Police arrest two militants in Manipur following alleged abduction of two teens</a>

However, she stormed out of the meeting, claiming that chairperson and BJP MP Vinod Sonkar asked her "unethical" and personal questions.

Sonkar accused Moitra of using unparliamentary language against him and other members of the panel.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8).

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8). Moitra is currently under the lens of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee after Dubey first raised the allegations. "On the basis of my complaint, Lokpal has ordered a CBI probe into the Mahua Moitra's corruption that compromises national security," the BJP MP said on X in Hindi. Dubey had approached the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on October 21, accusing Moitra of accepting bribes for asking questions in parliament at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani. What is the cash-for-query scam? Dubey had earlier claimed to have received a letter from a lawyer named Jai Anant Dehadrai stating that Moitra accepted "cash and gifts" from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in order to "ask questions in Parliament" to target his rival Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the letter reveals indisputable proof of bribes exchanged between Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani. The BJP MP further alleged that Moitra shared her parliamentary login with the businessman, and in doing so, compromised national security. Darshan Hiranandani later admitted to the login sharing in an explosive affidavit but did not mention the cash for query issue, claiming that he had given gifts to Moitra as she had demanded. There are allegations that Moitra's login was used multiple times from Dubai, where Hiranandani currently resides. Acrimonious scenes in ethics panel The TMC leader had also accepted that she shared her login ID, but claimed that the protocols of sharing credentials were not shared with the MPs. Also read | Nitish Kumar sex remark: Modi says CM has 'no shame' as latter apologises On November 2, Moitra appeared before the ethics panel to record her oral evidence on the allegations. Also read | India: Police arrest two militants in Manipur following alleged abduction of two teens However, she stormed out of the meeting, claiming that chairperson and BJP MP Vinod Sonkar asked her "unethical" and personal questions. Sonkar accused Moitra of using unparliamentary language against him and other members of the panel. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI to probe cash-for-query scam involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra, says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey

The Gaza strip ---- home to some 2.3 million people has now become a strip of graveyard for thousands of children. According to the United Nations agency -- UNICEF. The figure of children killed and injured daily is at over 400.

Israel-Hamas war: 160 children killed in Gaza everyday: WHO

In pics | Thousands flock to Washington DC zoo to bid goodbye to giant pandas

The European Commission on Wednesday opened formal accession talks with Ukraine, bloc’s executive body said, adding that detailed negotiations would likely begin next year.

The European Commission, EU’s executive arm, said that the invitation has also been extended to Moldova, and added that they have granted candidate status to Georgia.

"Today is a historic day because today the commission recommends that the council opens&nbsp;accession negotiations with Ukraine and with Moldova," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

The announcement is a major shot in the arm of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose ambitions to integrate Kyiv have been stalled by the EU’s stringent regulations in combating corruption and eliminating oligarchs’ influence.

Zelensky applied for EU membership in February 2022, shortly before Russia invaded his country.

<h2>EU wants Ukraine to fight corruption&nbsp;</h2>

In a statement, the bloc noted Ukraine's drawbacks and said that talks would formally launch once Ukraine satisfies the remaining conditions regarding stepping up the fight against corruption.

Accordingly, Kyiv is also expected to adopt a law on lobbying in line with EU standards, as well as strengthen national minority safeguards.

Zelensky later lauded the EU’s recommendations to open membership talks with Ukraine, calling it a “right step in history”.

"Ukrainians deserve this both for their protection of European values, and for the fact that even at times of a full-scale war, we keep our word by developing state institutions," he said on Telegram messenger.

However, experts argue that Zelensky’s path to EU membership won’t be as smooth as expected since the conditions listed by the bloc are unlikely to be met any time soon as it is currently at war with Russia.

<h2>Can Ukraine become EU member?</h2>

The European Commission said&nbsp;in a statement, “The Ukrainian government and Parliament demonstrated resolve in making&nbsp;substantial progress&nbsp;on meeting the 7 steps” required for negotiations to open.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/hundreds-of-girls-fall-victim-to-ai-generated-deep-fake-porn-images-656492">'Hundreds' of girls fell victim to AI-generated deepfake porn images,&nbsp;says&nbsp;minor victim's&nbsp;mother</a>

European top diplomats, while welcoming the decision, harped on Ukraine’s ability to fight corruption.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-targets-local-governments-banks-for-hidden-debt-violations-by-naming-and-shaming-them-656493">China targets local governments, banks for hidden debt violations by naming and shaming them</a>

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström said that Kyiv "belongs in the European family," but added that corruption in the country was a "scourge that needs to be tackled."

The proposal on membership talks would now be taken up by EU leaders during a summit on December 14-15, where it will be decided to whether to accept the commission's recommendation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Commission on Wednesday opened formal accession talks with Ukraine, bloc’s executive body said, adding that detailed negotiations would likely begin next year.

The European Commission on Wednesday opened formal accession talks with Ukraine, bloc’s executive body said, adding that detailed negotiations would likely begin next year. The European Commission, EU’s executive arm, said that the invitation has also been extended to Moldova, and added that they have granted candidate status to Georgia. "Today is a historic day because today the commission recommends that the council opens accession negotiations with Ukraine and with Moldova," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said. The announcement is a major shot in the arm of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose ambitions to integrate Kyiv have been stalled by the EU’s stringent regulations in combating corruption and eliminating oligarchs’ influence. Zelensky applied for EU membership in February 2022, shortly before Russia invaded his country. EU wants Ukraine to fight corruption In a statement, the bloc noted Ukraine's drawbacks and said that talks would formally launch once Ukraine satisfies the remaining conditions regarding stepping up the fight against corruption. Accordingly, Kyiv is also expected to adopt a law on lobbying in line with EU standards, as well as strengthen national minority safeguards. Zelensky later lauded the EU’s recommendations to open membership talks with Ukraine, calling it a “right step in history”. "Ukrainians deserve this both for their protection of European values, and for the fact that even at times of a full-scale war, we keep our word by developing state institutions," he said on Telegram messenger. However, experts argue that Zelensky’s path to EU membership won’t be as smooth as expected since the conditions listed by the bloc are unlikely to be met any time soon as it is currently at war with Russia. Can Ukraine become EU member? The European Commission said in a statement, “The Ukrainian government and Parliament demonstrated resolve in making substantial progress on meeting the 7 steps” required for negotiations to open. Also read | 'Hundreds' of girls fell victim to AI-generated deepfake porn images, says minor victim's mother European top diplomats, while welcoming the decision, harped on Ukraine’s ability to fight corruption. Also read | China targets local governments, banks for hidden debt violations by naming and shaming them Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström said that Kyiv "belongs in the European family," but added that corruption in the country was a "scourge that needs to be tackled." The proposal on membership talks would now be taken up by EU leaders during a summit on December 14-15, where it will be decided to whether to accept the commission's recommendation. (With inputs from agencies)

EU Commission formally opens membership talks with Ukraine

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