US investment bank Goldman Sachs has picked up a stake in the Adnani Powers Ltd, which sold shares worth $1 billion in a block deal.

The bank bought 103 million Adani Power shares for Rs 2,876 crore (over $300 million&nbsp;).

In total, Adani Powers sold 311 million shares in the firm on Wednesday at an average price of Rs 279.17 per share, which amounts to Rs 8.7 billion, according to data shared by the firm to the Indian stock exchange BSE.

The news of heavy investment witnessed a strong buying of Adani Power shares by local investors. Adani Power's share opened up&nbsp;on Thursday (Aug 17) and went on to hit an intraday high of Rs 288.50 apiece on the National Stock Exchange, clocking over 3 per cent intraday rise during early morning deals.

Apart from Goldman Sachs, Rajiv Jain-led GQG bought 152 million shares at an average price of Rs 279.15 apiece in a series of secondary block transactions.

<h2>GQG invests in Adani</h2>

"The GQG investment in Adani Power is a landmark deal, that showcases another vertical in the emerging energy transition space in which Adani portfolio companies are playing a leading role.

"This transaction also highlights the vote of confidence of global investor in India’s new age and re-energised power sector that is being propelled by energy transition plan of Indian government," said GQG in a note.

GQG Partners is always known for taking contrarian bets and its assets under management are worth close to $100 billion.&nbsp;

It holds about $13 billion in Indian companies including ITC, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank and Housing Development Finance Corp (now merged with HDFC Bank).

Notably, the renewed interest on Adani Powers comes days after Qatar Investment Authority, a sovereign fund, picked up a 2.7 per cent stake in Adani Green Energy for Rs3.9 billion.

Recently, Deloitte quit as the auditor of Adani Ports, renewing investor concerns even as the group slowly recovers from a report by US short-seller Hindenburg Research, released in January.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/intel-drops-54-billion-deal-after-china-holds-up-approval-report-626275">Intel drops $5.4 billion deal after China holds up approval: Report&nbsp;</a>

The report, which alleged improper use of tax havens and concerns over the conglomerate's debt levels - something it denies - wiped out nearly $147 billion from the market cap of the group's listed entities.

Though shares of the group companies have rebounded, they are still down around $100 billion in value.

Adani Ports had said that Deloitte's reason for quitting as its auditor was not convincing or sufficient to warrant such a move.

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US investment bank Goldman Sachs has picked up a stake in the Adnani Powers Ltd, which sold shares worth $1 billion in a block deal. The bank bought 103 million Adani Power shares for Rs 2,876 crore (over $300 million ).

US investment bank Goldman Sachs has picked up a stake in the Adnani Powers Ltd, which sold shares worth $1 billion in a block deal. The bank bought 103 million Adani Power shares for Rs 2,876 crore (over $300 million ). In total, Adani Powers sold 311 million shares in the firm on Wednesday at an average price of Rs 279.17 per share, which amounts to Rs 8.7 billion, according to data shared by the firm to the Indian stock exchange BSE. The news of heavy investment witnessed a strong buying of Adani Power shares by local investors. Adani Power's share opened up on Thursday (Aug 17) and went on to hit an intraday high of Rs 288.50 apiece on the National Stock Exchange, clocking over 3 per cent intraday rise during early morning deals. Apart from Goldman Sachs, Rajiv Jain-led GQG bought 152 million shares at an average price of Rs 279.15 apiece in a series of secondary block transactions. GQG invests in Adani "The GQG investment in Adani Power is a landmark deal, that showcases another vertical in the emerging energy transition space in which Adani portfolio companies are playing a leading role. "This transaction also highlights the vote of confidence of global investor in India’s new age and re-energised power sector that is being propelled by energy transition plan of Indian government," said GQG in a note. GQG Partners is always known for taking contrarian bets and its assets under management are worth close to $100 billion. It holds about $13 billion in Indian companies including ITC, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank and Housing Development Finance Corp (now merged with HDFC Bank). Notably, the renewed interest on Adani Powers comes days after Qatar Investment Authority, a sovereign fund, picked up a 2.7 per cent stake in Adani Green Energy for Rs3.9 billion. Recently, Deloitte quit as the auditor of Adani Ports, renewing investor concerns even as the group slowly recovers from a report by US short-seller Hindenburg Research, released in January. Also read | Intel drops $5.4 billion deal after China holds up approval: Report The report, which alleged improper use of tax havens and concerns over the conglomerate's debt levels - something it denies - wiped out nearly $147 billion from the market cap of the group's listed entities. Though shares of the group companies have rebounded, they are still down around $100 billion in value. Adani Ports had said that Deloitte's reason for quitting as its auditor was not convincing or sufficient to warrant such a move. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Goldman Sachs picks up stake in Adani Power, invests over $300 million

Two Christian brothers were arrested in Pakistan for the alleged desecration of the holy book Quran, which had sparked deadly riots in Jaranwala, Reuters reported quoting police.

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Police found torn pages of Quaran in the street which allegedly had derogatory comments written on them in red, police said on Friday (Aug 18).&nbsp;

Another page carried the names, addresses and national identity card numbers of the accused, provincial police chief Usman Anwar said, according to Reuters.

Meanwhile, a court has ordered the two suspects to be held in police custody for seven days for questioning.

Police are investigating as to why the names and addresses were written on it, Anwar told Reuters.&nbsp;

Blasphemy laws are quite strict in Pakistan, with the maximum punishment attracting the death penalty.&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">Violence continued for 10 hours</h2>

Though acts of blasphemy have been reported many times in Pakistan, those accused have not faced capital punishment. But the perpetrators have been lynched by outraged mobs.&nbsp;

A former provincial governor and a minister for minorities were shot dead for trying to reform the blasphemy law.

<h2>Pakistan church attacks: Rights groups demand&nbsp;justice</h2>

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On Wednesday, hundreds of people from the Islam faith ransacked and set six churches on fire in a predominantly Christian area on the outskirts of the industrial city after allegations spread that the Holy Quran had been desecrated.

The mob also desecrated a Christian graveyard and set the belongings of Christians' houses on fire.

Several people claimed to have seen Muslims led by local clerics carrying iron rods, sticks and daggers during the violence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/anti-christian-riots-in-pakistan-80-homes-19-churches-ravaged-by-islamists-626804">Anti-Christian riots in Pakistan: 80 homes, 19 churches ravaged by Islamists</a>

For 10 hours, the chaos continued unabated with the police remaining silent spectators on the scene, local people told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-100-arrested-600-booked-with-terrorism-charges-after-pakistan-mob-attacks-churches-626412">Over 120 arrested, 600 booked on terrorism charges after Pakistan mob attacks churches</a>

The police have, however, denied that, saying they prevented even worse damage.

<h2 dir="ltr">Interim PM vows to protect minority&nbsp;</h2>

On Friday, while addressing the cabinet, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar assured that their interim government will protect the minorities and that they would not let forces of darkness to rule.

"The minorities will stay protected in this country. There may be an attempt to harm them from a section of the marginalised and peripheral group of people, but that would be responded sternly and strictly," Kakar said during his maiden federal cabinet meeting.

"Pakistani state and society [do] not align with such elements. They may be from us but they are divorced from us, they are divorced from our identity process. We do not stand for the forces of darkness," the interim prime minister said.

Police have so far arrested at least 128 people involved in the mob attack against the churches.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Two Christian brothers were arrested in Pakistan for the alleged desecration of the holy book Quran, which had sparked deadly riots in Jaranwala, Reuters reported quoting police.

Two Christian brothers were arrested in Pakistan for the alleged desecration of the holy book Quran, which had sparked deadly riots in Jaranwala, Reuters reported quoting police. Police found torn pages of Quaran in the street which allegedly had derogatory comments written on them in red, police said on Friday (Aug 18). Another page carried the names, addresses and national identity card numbers of the accused, provincial police chief Usman Anwar said, according to Reuters. Meanwhile, a court has ordered the two suspects to be held in police custody for seven days for questioning. Police are investigating as to why the names and addresses were written on it, Anwar told Reuters. Blasphemy laws are quite strict in Pakistan, with the maximum punishment attracting the death penalty. Violence continued for 10 hours Though acts of blasphemy have been reported many times in Pakistan, those accused have not faced capital punishment. But the perpetrators have been lynched by outraged mobs. A former provincial governor and a minister for minorities were shot dead for trying to reform the blasphemy law. Pakistan church attacks: Rights groups demand justice On Wednesday, hundreds of people from the Islam faith ransacked and set six churches on fire in a predominantly Christian area on the outskirts of the industrial city after allegations spread that the Holy Quran had been desecrated. The mob also desecrated a Christian graveyard and set the belongings of Christians' houses on fire. Several people claimed to have seen Muslims led by local clerics carrying iron rods, sticks and daggers during the violence. Also read | Anti-Christian riots in Pakistan: 80 homes, 19 churches ravaged by Islamists For 10 hours, the chaos continued unabated with the police remaining silent spectators on the scene, local people told Reuters. Also read | Over 120 arrested, 600 booked on terrorism charges after Pakistan mob attacks churches The police have, however, denied that, saying they prevented even worse damage. Interim PM vows to protect minority On Friday, while addressing the cabinet, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar assured that their interim government will protect the minorities and that they would not let forces of darkness to rule. "The minorities will stay protected in this country. There may be an attempt to harm them from a section of the marginalised and peripheral group of people, but that would be responded sternly and strictly," Kakar said during his maiden federal cabinet meeting. "Pakistani state and society [do] not align with such elements. They may be from us but they are divorced from us, they are divorced from our identity process. We do not stand for the forces of darkness," the interim prime minister said. Police have so far arrested at least 128 people involved in the mob attack against the churches. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Two Christian brothers arrested for blasphemy that led to riots in Pakistan’s Jaranwala

The London Police have launched an investigation to find the lone culprit involved in the vandalism of 300 CCTV cameras that were installed in city’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) used to detect non-compliant vehicles.

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From April to mid-August, the Met police received &nbsp;339 reports of camera cables being damaged, or cameras being stolen or obscured.

However, local media reported that the actual number could go higher, closing to almost 500.

The Transport for London (TfL) is installing 2,750 cameras in the new ULEZ areas, and already put 1,900 cameras in outer London so far.

Despite the widespread damage, one man has so far been charged by police.

Scotland Yard released an image of the man who is said to be involved in four offences in Hillingdon, Harrow and Uxbridge on June 17.

<h2 dir="ltr">Police working with transport dept to find culprits&nbsp;</h2>

Police Commander Owain Richards said that the Met had "a team of officers investigating and identifying those responsible" and was working with TfL to "identify new ways to prevent further cameras from being damaged or stolen".

“These are clearly unacceptable acts of criminality and we have a team of officers investigating and identifying those responsible.

“We are providing a proportionate policing response, balancing these incidents against the wide range of operational demand and crime we must respond to across London.”

The damage is being attributed to the widespread backlash against the administration’s plan for the expansion of the ULEZ on August 29.

The plan, which was first introduced in 2019 and separate from London’s two-decades-old congestion charge, requires the most polluting vehicles to pay a £12.50 (S$21.60) toll on days they are driven within the inner city.

Its the extension to all of Greater London that sparked a fierce backlash from some living in and around the newly encompassed areas, who face fines of up to £160 for each day they fail to pay.

Most drivers of vehicles that do not meet ULEZ standards – typically the oldest petrol cars from before 2006 and dirtier diesels registered before 2015 – will be liable to pay a £12.50 daily fee after 29 August.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The London Police have launched an investigation to find the lone culprit involved in the vandalism of 300 CCTV cameras that were installed in city’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) used to detect non-compliant vehicles.

The London Police have launched an investigation to find the lone culprit involved in the vandalism of 300 CCTV cameras that were installed in city’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) used to detect non-compliant vehicles. From April to mid-August, the Met police received 339 reports of camera cables being damaged, or cameras being stolen or obscured. However, local media reported that the actual number could go higher, closing to almost 500. The Transport for London (TfL) is installing 2,750 cameras in the new ULEZ areas, and already put 1,900 cameras in outer London so far. Despite the widespread damage, one man has so far been charged by police. Scotland Yard released an image of the man who is said to be involved in four offences in Hillingdon, Harrow and Uxbridge on June 17. Police working with transport dept to find culprits Police Commander Owain Richards said that the Met had "a team of officers investigating and identifying those responsible" and was working with TfL to "identify new ways to prevent further cameras from being damaged or stolen". “These are clearly unacceptable acts of criminality and we have a team of officers investigating and identifying those responsible. “We are providing a proportionate policing response, balancing these incidents against the wide range of operational demand and crime we must respond to across London.” The damage is being attributed to the widespread backlash against the administration’s plan for the expansion of the ULEZ on August 29. The plan, which was first introduced in 2019 and separate from London’s two-decades-old congestion charge, requires the most polluting vehicles to pay a £12.50 (S$21.60) toll on days they are driven within the inner city. Its the extension to all of Greater London that sparked a fierce backlash from some living in and around the newly encompassed areas, who face fines of up to £160 for each day they fail to pay. Most drivers of vehicles that do not meet ULEZ standards – typically the oldest petrol cars from before 2006 and dirtier diesels registered before 2015 – will be liable to pay a £12.50 daily fee after 29 August. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

London Police on lookout for vandal who damaged 300 vehicle pollution cameras in four months 

India’s first 3D-printed&nbsp;post&nbsp;office was officially inaugurated in southern Bengaluru city’s Cambridge Layout area on Friday (Aug 18).

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Completed in just 43 days—– two days ahead of its deadline— the building cost 2.6 million rupees ($31,249 approx.), which is 40 per cent less than the conventional construction expcenditure.

Not only it took less time to complete the construction, but the technology also gave more flexibility to the shape of the building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Spread over 1021 square feet, the structure was built by Larsen &amp; Tourbo Limited under the technological guidance of India’s prestigious engineering institute—the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras.

This is said to be the first commercial building to have used 3D printing technology.&nbsp;

Communications and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who virtually inaugurated the building, said that the new post office reflects the spirit of present-day India.

He marvelled at the structure, saying that it was possible because the country has a leadership that is decisive and has confidence in its people’s capabilities.&nbsp;

“This city always presents a new picture of India. The new picture that you saw in terms of this 3D-print post office building is the spirit of India today. That's the spirit with which India is progressing today…”

“The spirit of development, the spirit of developing our own technology that's the defining feature. All this is possible because the country has a leadership that is decisive &amp; has confidence in our people’s capabilities,” Vaishnaw said.

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The spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat! 
🇮🇳India’s first 3D printed Post Office. 
 
📍Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru <a href="https://t.co/57FQFQZZ1b">pic.twitter.com/57FQFQZZ1b</a>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1692406662261604615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The minister hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and said that in the last nine years, the country has developed many new technologies and the 3D-printed concrete building has been constructed with the same spirit.

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Every Indian would be proud to see India's first 3D printed Post Office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. A testament to our nation's innovation and progress, it also embodies the spirit of a self-reliant India. Compliments to those who have worked hard in ensuring the Post… <a href="https://t.co/Y4TrW4nEhZ">pic.twitter.com/Y4TrW4nEhZ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1692438486522196383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Every Indian would be proud to see India’s first 3D printed post office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. A testament to our nation’s innovation and progress, it also embodies the spirit of a self-reliant India. Compliments to those who have worked hard in ensuring the post office’s completion.”

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India’s first 3D-printed post office was officially inaugurated in southern Bengaluru city’s Cambridge Layout area on Friday (Aug 18). Completed in just 43 days—– two days ahead of its deadline— the building cost 2.

India’s first 3D-printed post office was officially inaugurated in southern Bengaluru city’s Cambridge Layout area on Friday (Aug 18). Completed in just 43 days—– two days ahead of its deadline— the building cost 2.6 million rupees ($31,249 approx.), which is 40 per cent less than the conventional construction expcenditure. Not only it took less time to complete the construction, but the technology also gave more flexibility to the shape of the building. Spread over 1021 square feet, the structure was built by Larsen & Tourbo Limited under the technological guidance of India’s prestigious engineering institute—the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras. This is said to be the first commercial building to have used 3D printing technology. Communications and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who virtually inaugurated the building, said that the new post office reflects the spirit of present-day India. He marvelled at the structure, saying that it was possible because the country has a leadership that is decisive and has confidence in its people’s capabilities. “This city always presents a new picture of India. The new picture that you saw in terms of this 3D-print post office building is the spirit of India today. That's the spirit with which India is progressing today…” “The spirit of development, the spirit of developing our own technology that's the defining feature. All this is possible because the country has a leadership that is decisive & has confidence in our people’s capabilities,” Vaishnaw said. The spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat! 🇮🇳India’s first 3D printed Post Office. 📍Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/57FQFQZZ1b — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) August 18, 2023 × The minister hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and said that in the last nine years, the country has developed many new technologies and the 3D-printed concrete building has been constructed with the same spirit. Every Indian would be proud to see India's first 3D printed Post Office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. A testament to our nation's innovation and progress, it also embodies the spirit of a self-reliant India. Compliments to those who have worked hard in ensuring the Post… pic.twitter.com/Y4TrW4nEhZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 18, 2023 × Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Every Indian would be proud to see India’s first 3D printed post office at Cambridge Layout, Bengaluru. A testament to our nation’s innovation and progress, it also embodies the spirit of a self-reliant India. Compliments to those who have worked hard in ensuring the post office’s completion.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s first 3D-printed post office thrown open for public in Bengaluru 

Fresh violence broke out in India’s northeastern Manipur state in which three people were killed during heavy gunfire. The police found three bodies from Kuki Thowai village in Ukhrul district, which has been relatively peaceful ever since ethnic strife engulfed the state in May.

Fresh violence broke out in India’s northeastern Manipur state in which three people were killed during heavy gunfire. The police found three bodies from Kuki Thowai village in Ukhrul district, which has been relatively peaceful ever since ethnic strife engulfed the state in May. The ages of the deceased have been determined as anywhere between 24 years and 35 years, and their bodies were found by police while carrying out a thorough search in the surrounding villages and forest areas. According to the police, the three persons bore injury marks caused by sharp-edged weapons and their limbs were also chopped off. Deceased were guarding village Giving details of the deceased, Ukhrul’s top police officer Ningshem Vashum told the Indian Express newspaper that the three were village guards tasked with guarding the village. “The incident is related to the ongoing ethnic problem in the state. Some armed miscreants entered the village and these three people who were guarding the village were shot. The firing has stopped in the area and security forces comprising the Army and police have moved into the area,” Vashum said. The violence erupted on May 3 after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Indian laws provide reservations in some government jobs, college admissions and electoral seats for communities under the ST category as a form of affirmative action to tackle historical structural inequality and discrimination. Over 100 dead in the violence The Kuki community has opposed the Meitei community’s inclusion in the list, fearing loss of jobs and opportunities due to the group’s demographically and politically advantageous position. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Also read | Extradition of Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana a 'pending matter': US Tribals – Nagas and Kukis – constitute little over 40 per cent and reside in the hill districts. Also read | India: Man shoots eight people, kills two after argument over pet dogs More than 120 people have died and over 3,000 were injured in the violence. Around 40,000 central security personnel, besides the Manipur Police, have been deployed to control the violence and bring back normality in the state. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Fresh violence breaks out in restive Manipur, three more killed

Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico.

By Thursday morning, Hurricane Hilary was located 530 miles (852 kilometres) southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, with higher gusts—an environment ripe for rapid intensification.

“Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Hilary could become a major hurricane by tonight or early Friday,” the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said recently.

As it continues to move in a west-northwest direction, Hilary is forecast to become a major Category 4 hurricane by late Thursday night or early Friday morning, US-based The Weather Channel reported.

But if it makes landfall in the US, the weather forecasters expect the hurricane to weaken.

<h2>California could see heavy showers</h2>

However, heavy rains are projected, especially in California, where several months’ worth of rain could fall in just one or two days, potentially causing flash flooding.

If Hilary makes landfall in California as a tropical storm, it'll be the first one in 84 years, CBS News reported.

And by Saturday and Sunday, the hurricane is expected to rapidly weaken as it moves over colder waters.

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And with that, Hilary is now a hurricane. Note: the track forecast was not updated with this advisory. Curious on how to interpret this product? Check out this video from the National Hurricane Center: <a href="https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA">https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA</a> <a href="https://t.co/J9Pdya1NKX">pic.twitter.com/J9Pdya1NKX</a>
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSSanDiego/status/1692147868336075019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The NHC said that the storm may bring high winds, surf, and rain to southern California, and parts of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico could also be affected.

The effects of the storm may start to be seen as early as Friday through the start of next week. The heaviest rainfall from Hilary within the United States is expected to peak on Sunday and Monday, according to&nbsp;NHC.

A climate scientist at the University of California at Los Angeles, Daniel Swain, told CNN that “multiple years’ worth of precipitation” could potentially fall in some of California’s driest areas.

Regardless of the flood danger, experts believe that the rainfall would combat drought and recharge groundwater across arid portions of the Southwest.

Drought conditions expanded in New Mexico and remained steady in California and Arizona this week, the US Drought Monitor reported Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

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Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico.

Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico. By Thursday morning, Hurricane Hilary was located 530 miles (852 kilometres) southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, with higher gusts—an environment ripe for rapid intensification. “Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Hilary could become a major hurricane by tonight or early Friday,” the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said recently. As it continues to move in a west-northwest direction, Hilary is forecast to become a major Category 4 hurricane by late Thursday night or early Friday morning, US-based The Weather Channel reported. But if it makes landfall in the US, the weather forecasters expect the hurricane to weaken. California could see heavy showers However, heavy rains are projected, especially in California, where several months’ worth of rain could fall in just one or two days, potentially causing flash flooding. If Hilary makes landfall in California as a tropical storm, it'll be the first one in 84 years, CBS News reported. And by Saturday and Sunday, the hurricane is expected to rapidly weaken as it moves over colder waters. And with that, Hilary is now a hurricane. Note: the track forecast was not updated with this advisory. Curious on how to interpret this product? Check out this video from the National Hurricane Center: https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA pic.twitter.com/J9Pdya1NKX — NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) August 17, 2023 × The NHC said that the storm may bring high winds, surf, and rain to southern California, and parts of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico could also be affected. The effects of the storm may start to be seen as early as Friday through the start of next week. The heaviest rainfall from Hilary within the United States is expected to peak on Sunday and Monday, according to NHC. A climate scientist at the University of California at Los Angeles, Daniel Swain, told CNN that “multiple years’ worth of precipitation” could potentially fall in some of California’s driest areas. Regardless of the flood danger, experts believe that the rainfall would combat drought and recharge groundwater across arid portions of the Southwest. Drought conditions expanded in New Mexico and remained steady in California and Arizona this week, the US Drought Monitor reported Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

California braces for impact as Hurricane Hilary approaches after hitting Mexico

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has threatened to use nuclear weapons in response to “aggression” by the NATO allies at the border. Lukashenko’s remarks were directed at Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, who have expressed their concerns against Belarus for giving shelter to the Wagner troops.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has threatened to use nuclear weapons in response to “aggression” by the NATO allies at the border. Lukashenko’s remarks were directed at Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, who have expressed their concerns against Belarus for giving shelter to the Wagner troops. In an interview with state-run BelTA on Thursday (Aug 17), Lukashenko said, “If aggression against our country is launched from the side of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, we will immediately respond with everything we have," he said, adding, "And the strike will be unacceptable." In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly sent nuclear warheads to its ally Belarus for “deterrence”. It is unclear how much nuclear arsenal Russia has delivered to Minsk recently, but senior officials from the US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) told CNN that they had “no reason to doubt” Putin’s claim. Lukashenko said that they will not strike first unless provoked, adding, “We will not tarry, wait and the rest. We will use the entire arsenal of our weapons for deterrence," he said, explaining that they are a small country that can be "captured within a month." "We didn't bring nuclear weapons here in order to scare someone," he said. Belarusian leader Lukashenko taunts Poland over presence of Wagner group Belarus got nukes from Russia "Yes, nuclear weapons represent a strong deterring factor. But these are tactical nuclear weapons, not strategic ones. This is why we will use them immediately once aggression is launched against us." Belarus was one of the few countries that actively supported Russia during its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Though it hasn’t yet participated in the war, the recent joint military drills between Russia and Belarus over the past year have fuelled concerns. The security situation in Eastern Europe has been volatile, as two of the northern neighbours of Belarus—Poland and Lithuania—have been wary of Wagner troops currently stationed in Minsk after a failed coup against Putin in Russia. Eastern Europe in turmoil There were reports circulating that Wagner troops have been dispatched towards a thin strip of land between Poland and Lithuania to increase pressure on NATO and European Union members. Also read | US approves sending F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands Following this, Poland announced that it would move around 10,000 troops to its border with Belarus, and detained two Russians accused of spying and spreading propaganda for the Russian mercenary group. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' On Wednesday, Lithuania said it would temporarily suspend operations at two of its six border checkpoints with Belarus due to concerns about Wagner forces, with the interior minister citing “emerging threats to national security and possible provocations at the border.” In response, Belarus slammed Lithuania for taking an “unconstructive and unfriendly step,” calling its Wagner reasoning “far-fetched.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko threatens nuclear weapons strike in response to aggression

On July 26, Niger witnessed a military coup for the fifth time since the country gained independence from France in the 1960s.

On that day, the presidential guards detained President Mohamed Bazoum, and commander General Abdourahamane Tchiani proclaimed himself the leader of a new military junta.

In a televised address, soldiers announced that they had removed the president from power, seized control of the government and suspended the constitution.

The coup leaders justified their actions by claiming that it was in response to the “continuing deterioration of the security situation”, adding that the president’s measures did not go far enough to protect Niger.

The putschists also pointed to the country’s collapsing economic position as another reason.

They also closed the country’s borders and suspended all institutions of the republic, and announced a national curfew. The soldiers warned against any foreign intervention.

The apparent coup was said to be led by the head of a regional political and security group.

Apart from the international players like Russia and the United States, the regional bloc ECOWAS or the Economic Community of West African States has been playing an active role.

The ECOWAS threatened to intervene militarily if the coup leaders fail to restore constitutional order. It had also given the Niger military junta a deadline to adhere to its demands, but it did not yield any desired results.

Following this, ECOWAS said it has activated the 'standby force' to "restore constitutional order" in Niger.

It said that its intervention aims to bring back ousted President Mohamed Bazoum to rule Niger.

The Niger junta, in response, reportedly issued a call for volunteers to resist ECOWAS "invaders".

<h2>What is ECOWAS?</h2>

Established in 1975 through the Lagos Treaty, ECOWAS’s aim is to promote economic integration among its members through a single common currency and create a single trading bloc in areas of industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, financial issues, and social and cultural matters.

According to its website, the vision of ECOWAS is the creation of a “borderless region” that is well-integrated.

“ECOWAS is meant to be a region governed in accordance with the principles of democracy, rule of law and good governance,” it states.

At the helm of its organisation structure is the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government. The Chairman is the current Head of State and Government and is appointed by other Heads of State and Government to oversee its affairs for one year.

It has 15 members: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’ Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal and Togo. Around 400 million people live in this region.

However, Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso, were suspended after the civilian government was overthrown and the ECOWAS leaders refused to recognise their new governments.

<h2>Role of ECOWAS </h2>

Apart from their stated goals of economic cooperation, ECOWAS has been busy in attempting to prevent military conflicts in the region.

AP news agency states that ECOWAS operated as a regional peacekeeping operation known as ECOMOG, led by Nigeria in the 1990s and early 2000s, in Liberia when forces were first deployed in 1990 during the deadly civil war and in Sierra Leone in 1997 when a democratically elected government was overthrown.

In 2017, it intervened in Gambia after longtime president Yahya Jammeh refused to step down after losing the elections which eventually led to the winner Adama Burrow coming to power. It has sent its troops to other countries but never to Niger.

Notably, Niger coup’s leader Gen. Tchiani has previously served as battalion commander for ECOWAS peacekeepers in Ivory Coast after a ceasefire between government and rebel forces in 2003.

<h2>What will happen next?</h2>

For all intents and purposes, ECOWAS leaders plan to intervene militarily, though Niger putschists have said that they will give an apt response.

ECOWAS had set a&nbsp;deadline for mutinous soldiers to release and reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum earlier this month.

But the junta leaders didn’t toe the line, following which the military chiefs from West African states on Thursday began two days of discussions in Ghana's capital&nbsp;of Accra about the ongoing crisis in&nbsp;Niger.

West African regional bloc&nbsp;ECOWAS&nbsp;said the meeting&nbsp;was being held "to finalize plans for the deployment of the Standby Force."

"Democracy is what we stand for and it's what we encourage," Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, told the meeting.&nbsp;

"The focus of our gathering is not simply to react to events, but to proactively chart a course that results in peace and promotes stability," he added.

He listed past ECOWAS deployments in Gambia, Liberia and elsewhere as examples of readiness.

“If push comes to shove we are going into Niger with our own contingents and equipment and our own resources to make sure we restore constitutional order. If other democratic partners want to support us they are welcome,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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On July 26, Niger witnessed a military coup for the fifth time since the country gained independence from France in the 1960s. On that day, the presidential guards detained President Mohamed Bazoum, and commander General Abdourahamane Tchiani proclaimed himself the leader of a new military junta.

On July 26, Niger witnessed a military coup for the fifth time since the country gained independence from France in the 1960s. On that day, the presidential guards detained President Mohamed Bazoum, and commander General Abdourahamane Tchiani proclaimed himself the leader of a new military junta. In a televised address, soldiers announced that they had removed the president from power, seized control of the government and suspended the constitution. The coup leaders justified their actions by claiming that it was in response to the “continuing deterioration of the security situation”, adding that the president’s measures did not go far enough to protect Niger. The putschists also pointed to the country’s collapsing economic position as another reason. They also closed the country’s borders and suspended all institutions of the republic, and announced a national curfew. The soldiers warned against any foreign intervention. The apparent coup was said to be led by the head of a regional political and security group. Apart from the international players like Russia and the United States, the regional bloc ECOWAS or the Economic Community of West African States has been playing an active role. The ECOWAS threatened to intervene militarily if the coup leaders fail to restore constitutional order. It had also given the Niger military junta a deadline to adhere to its demands, but it did not yield any desired results. Following this, ECOWAS said it has activated the 'standby force' to "restore constitutional order" in Niger. It said that its intervention aims to bring back ousted President Mohamed Bazoum to rule Niger. The Niger junta, in response, reportedly issued a call for volunteers to resist ECOWAS "invaders". What is ECOWAS? Established in 1975 through the Lagos Treaty, ECOWAS’s aim is to promote economic integration among its members through a single common currency and create a single trading bloc in areas of industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, financial issues, and social and cultural matters. According to its website, the vision of ECOWAS is the creation of a “borderless region” that is well-integrated. “ECOWAS is meant to be a region governed in accordance with the principles of democracy, rule of law and good governance,” it states. At the helm of its organisation structure is the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government. The Chairman is the current Head of State and Government and is appointed by other Heads of State and Government to oversee its affairs for one year. It has 15 members: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’ Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal and Togo. Around 400 million people live in this region. However, Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso, were suspended after the civilian government was overthrown and the ECOWAS leaders refused to recognise their new governments. Role of ECOWAS Apart from their stated goals of economic cooperation, ECOWAS has been busy in attempting to prevent military conflicts in the region. AP news agency states that ECOWAS operated as a regional peacekeeping operation known as ECOMOG, led by Nigeria in the 1990s and early 2000s, in Liberia when forces were first deployed in 1990 during the deadly civil war and in Sierra Leone in 1997 when a democratically elected government was overthrown. In 2017, it intervened in Gambia after longtime president Yahya Jammeh refused to step down after losing the elections which eventually led to the winner Adama Burrow coming to power. It has sent its troops to other countries but never to Niger. Notably, Niger coup’s leader Gen. Tchiani has previously served as battalion commander for ECOWAS peacekeepers in Ivory Coast after a ceasefire between government and rebel forces in 2003. What will happen next? For all intents and purposes, ECOWAS leaders plan to intervene militarily, though Niger putschists have said that they will give an apt response. ECOWAS had set a deadline for mutinous soldiers to release and reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum earlier this month. But the junta leaders didn’t toe the line, following which the military chiefs from West African states on Thursday began two days of discussions in Ghana's capital of Accra about the ongoing crisis in Niger. West African regional bloc ECOWAS said the meeting was being held "to finalize plans for the deployment of the Standby Force." "Democracy is what we stand for and it's what we encourage," Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, told the meeting. "The focus of our gathering is not simply to react to events, but to proactively chart a course that results in peace and promotes stability," he added. He listed past ECOWAS deployments in Gambia, Liberia and elsewhere as examples of readiness. “If push comes to shove we are going into Niger with our own contingents and equipment and our own resources to make sure we restore constitutional order. If other democratic partners want to support us they are welcome,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What is ECOWAS, the African regional bloc threatening to intervene militarily in Niger?

Over 60 migrants are feared to have died, while search is on to trace others after a boat carrying them capsized off Cape Verde.

The boat left Senegal in July "with 101 passengers on board",&nbsp;the Senegalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released on Tuesday (Aug 16).

While at least 38 people were rescued, more than a dozen migrants are still reported to be missing and presumed dead.

The Cape Verdean authorities were informed of the boat incident after it was spotted by a Spanish fishing vessel about 150 nautical miles (277 km) from the Cape Verdean island of Sal on Monday.

<h2>Victims are all Senegalese&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

A health services official in Sal, Jose Rui Moreira, said that 38 were rescued, of which seven have been hospitalised. The 38 survivors include four children aged 12 to 16.

All the competent services have been activated to assist the survivors, the police said.

"We must open our arms and welcome the living and bury the dead with dignity," said Cape Verdean Health Minister Filomena Goncalves, according to the Inforpress news agency.

The Senegalese ministry, "in conjunction with the competent Cape Verdean authorities, has made the necessary arrangements for (the) repatriation (of Senegalese nationals) as soon as possible", he said.

The Spanish migration advocacy group Walking Borders said the vessel was a large fishing boat.

<h2>Cape Verde, gateway to Europe&nbsp;</h2>

Cape Verde, an Atlantic archipelago located a few hundred kilometres from the West African coast, lies on the maritime migration route to the Spanish Canary Islands —a gateway to the European Union.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-reveal-china-building-airbase-on-dispute-south-china-sea-island-626184">Satellite images show China building airbase on island in South China Sea</a>

Every year, thousands of Africans undertake this dangerous journey to Europe in the hope of better life.

They often travel in modest boats or motorised canoes supplied by smugglers, who charge a fee for the journey.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ukrainian-captives-claim-they-were-brutally-tortured-by-russia-626049">Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia</a>

In January, rescue teams in Cape Verde saved about 90 refugees and migrants adrift in a canoe, while two others on board died.

They were from Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Over 60 migrants are feared to have died, while search is on to trace others after a boat carrying them capsized off Cape Verde. The boat left Senegal in July "with 101 passengers on board", the Senegalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released on Tuesday (Aug 16).

Over 60 migrants are feared to have died, while search is on to trace others after a boat carrying them capsized off Cape Verde. The boat left Senegal in July "with 101 passengers on board", the Senegalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released on Tuesday (Aug 16). While at least 38 people were rescued, more than a dozen migrants are still reported to be missing and presumed dead. The Cape Verdean authorities were informed of the boat incident after it was spotted by a Spanish fishing vessel about 150 nautical miles (277 km) from the Cape Verdean island of Sal on Monday. Victims are all Senegalese A health services official in Sal, Jose Rui Moreira, said that 38 were rescued, of which seven have been hospitalised. The 38 survivors include four children aged 12 to 16. All the competent services have been activated to assist the survivors, the police said. "We must open our arms and welcome the living and bury the dead with dignity," said Cape Verdean Health Minister Filomena Goncalves, according to the Inforpress news agency. The Senegalese ministry, "in conjunction with the competent Cape Verdean authorities, has made the necessary arrangements for (the) repatriation (of Senegalese nationals) as soon as possible", he said. The Spanish migration advocacy group Walking Borders said the vessel was a large fishing boat. Cape Verde, gateway to Europe Cape Verde, an Atlantic archipelago located a few hundred kilometres from the West African coast, lies on the maritime migration route to the Spanish Canary Islands —a gateway to the European Union. Also read | Satellite images show China building airbase on island in South China Sea Every year, thousands of Africans undertake this dangerous journey to Europe in the hope of better life. They often travel in modest boats or motorised canoes supplied by smugglers, who charge a fee for the journey. Also read | Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia In January, rescue teams in Cape Verde saved about 90 refugees and migrants adrift in a canoe, while two others on board died. They were from Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least 60 feared dead after migrant boat capsizes off Cape Verde

In a move that is likely to ruffle feathers within the Indian establishment, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday (Aug 17) added jailed terrorist Yasin Malik's wife Mushaal Hussein Mullick to his 19-member Cabinet.

Notably, this is the first time that a leader from Pakistani-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) has been included in the federal government.

Mushaal is not a full-time minister rather she would work as a special assistant to the prime minister on human rights. A full or deputy minister has to be a Pakistani national while special assistants can be dual nationals.

The newly appointed interim cabinet members were sworn-in earlier in the day at a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. President Arif Alvi administered the oath of the interim cabinet ministers.

<h2>Mushaal met Yasin 2005</h2>

Mushaal is from PoK and is married to Indian Kashmiri&nbsp;separatist leader Yasin Malik, who was recently convicted by the Indian court on terrorism charges.

She married Yasin in Rawalpindi on February 22, 2009. According to reports, the two met when Yasin was on a tour of Pakistan in 2005.

Mushaal studied from the London School of Economics. Her mother Rehana Hussein Mullick was the secretary general of PML-N Women’s Wing, while her father MA Hussein Mullick was an international economist who headed the University of Bonn’s economics department and was the first Pakistani member of a Nobel Prize jury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-100-arrested-600-booked-with-terrorism-charges-after-pakistan-mob-attacks-churches-626412">Over 100 arrested, 600 booked after Pak mob attacks churches</a>

Her brother Haider Ali Hussein Mullick is a foreign policy analyst based in Washington, DC, and is currently a lecturer at the Naval Post Graduate School. Her sister, Sabien Hussein Mullick, is a social worker.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-plane-carrying-eight-people-crashes-into-a-road-all-dead-626352">Malaysia: Plane carrying 8 crashes in landing bid; all aboard, 2 locals dead</a>

Mashaal lives with her daughter Raziyah Sultana, 12, in Islamabad.

<h2>Yasin serving life sentence&nbsp;</h2>

On May 19, 2022, a court in the capital New Delhi convicted Yasin Malik in a case related to alleged terrorism and secessionist activities in the Kashmir Valley in 2016-17. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Malik pleaded guilty to the charges framed against him. He told the court that he was not contesting the charges levelled against him including sections 16 (terrorist act), 17 (raising funds for the terrorist act), 18 (conspiracy to commit terrorist act) and 20 (being a member of a terrorist gang or organisation) of the UAPA and sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 124-A (sedition) of the IPC. 
 
&nbsp;

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In a move that is likely to ruffle feathers within the Indian establishment, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday (Aug 17) added jailed terrorist Yasin Malik's wife Mushaal Hussein Mullick to his 19-member Cabinet.

In a move that is likely to ruffle feathers within the Indian establishment, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Thursday (Aug 17) added jailed terrorist Yasin Malik's wife Mushaal Hussein Mullick to his 19-member Cabinet. Notably, this is the first time that a leader from Pakistani-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) has been included in the federal government. Mushaal is not a full-time minister rather she would work as a special assistant to the prime minister on human rights. A full or deputy minister has to be a Pakistani national while special assistants can be dual nationals. The newly appointed interim cabinet members were sworn-in earlier in the day at a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. President Arif Alvi administered the oath of the interim cabinet ministers. Mushaal met Yasin 2005 Mushaal is from PoK and is married to Indian Kashmiri separatist leader Yasin Malik, who was recently convicted by the Indian court on terrorism charges. She married Yasin in Rawalpindi on February 22, 2009. According to reports, the two met when Yasin was on a tour of Pakistan in 2005. Mushaal studied from the London School of Economics. Her mother Rehana Hussein Mullick was the secretary general of PML-N Women’s Wing, while her father MA Hussein Mullick was an international economist who headed the University of Bonn’s economics department and was the first Pakistani member of a Nobel Prize jury. Also read | Over 100 arrested, 600 booked after Pak mob attacks churches Her brother Haider Ali Hussein Mullick is a foreign policy analyst based in Washington, DC, and is currently a lecturer at the Naval Post Graduate School. Her sister, Sabien Hussein Mullick, is a social worker. Also read | Malaysia: Plane carrying 8 crashes in landing bid; all aboard, 2 locals dead Mashaal lives with her daughter Raziyah Sultana, 12, in Islamabad. Yasin serving life sentence On May 19, 2022, a court in the capital New Delhi convicted Yasin Malik in a case related to alleged terrorism and secessionist activities in the Kashmir Valley in 2016-17. He was sentenced to life imprisonment. Malik pleaded guilty to the charges framed against him. He told the court that he was not contesting the charges levelled against him including sections 16 (terrorist act), 17 (raising funds for the terrorist act), 18 (conspiracy to commit terrorist act) and 20 (being a member of a terrorist gang or organisation) of the UAPA and sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 124-A (sedition) of the IPC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan caretaker PM adds terrorist Yasin Malik's wife in cabinet as special assistant

The controversy surrounding an Indian private university over the controversial research paper is refusing to die down as another faculty professor has quit, sparking a strong response from other faculty members who have threatened to quit en masse.

According to reports, Pulapre Balakrishnan, an economics professor at Ashoka University, put his papers on Tuesday (Aug 15) in protest against the varsity’s decision to accept the resignation of Sabyasachi Das, whose research work suggesting voter manipulation in 2019 elections sparked a major political controversy with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Following Balakrishnan’s exit, his colleagues have written to the university’s governing body threatening a faculty exodus if Das is not reinstated. The English and Creative Writing departments have also extended their support to the demand, reports PTI news agency.

<h2>'Won't carry out teaching obligations'</h2>

In a joint statement, they said that they would not be able to carry out their teaching obligations "unless questions regarding basic academic freedoms are resolved before the Monsoon 2023 semester".

"The offer of resignation by our colleague Prof. Sabyasachi Das and its hasty acceptance by the University has deeply ruptured the faith that we in the faculty of the Department of Economics, our colleagues, our students, and well-wishers of Ashoka University everywhere, had reposed in the university's leadership," the letter said.

"We urge the governing body to address this immediately, but no later than August 23, 2023. Failure to do so will systematically wreck the largest academic department at Ashoka and the very viability of the Ashoka vision," it added.

Furthermore, the professors have put out two demands. One, Professor Das' unconditional return to his position at Ashoka University, and second, the governing body to play no role in evaluating faculty research through any committee or any other structure.

&nbsp;"Unless these questions regarding basic academic freedoms are resolved before the start of the Monsoon 2023 semester, faculty members of the department will find themselves unable to carry forward their teaching obligations in the spirit of critical enquiry and the fearless pursuit of truth that characterise our classrooms,” the letter stated.

<h2>What was the controversy about?</h2>

The university had earlier distanced itself from Das’ research paper ‘Democratic Backsliding in the World's Largest Democracy’ after it came under immense criticism.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-ashoka-university-distances-itself-from-disputed-paper-that-questioned-integrity-of-indias-elections-621555">India's Ashoka University distances itself from disputed paper that questioned integrity of India's elections</a>

On social media, the varsity stated that social media activity or public activism by Ashoka faculty, students or staff in their “individual capacity” does not reflect its stand.

Das later resigned and the university accepted his resignation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-33-academicians-demand-removal-of-names-from-rationalised-ncert-textbooks-604808">India: 33 academicians demand removal of names from 'rationalised' NCERT textbooks</a>

According to Das’ paper, the “disproportionate” wins were never observed in past elections by BJP or Congress, and also that they were mainly seen in states ruled by BJP at that time.

His paper cites that the reasons for this could be that either the BJP committed electoral fraud or it was able to accurately predict closely contested seats and mobilise party workers to campaign more intensively.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The controversy surrounding an Indian private university over the controversial research paper is refusing to die down as another faculty professor has quit, sparking a strong response from other faculty members who have threatened to quit en masse.

The controversy surrounding an Indian private university over the controversial research paper is refusing to die down as another faculty professor has quit, sparking a strong response from other faculty members who have threatened to quit en masse. According to reports, Pulapre Balakrishnan, an economics professor at Ashoka University, put his papers on Tuesday (Aug 15) in protest against the varsity’s decision to accept the resignation of Sabyasachi Das, whose research work suggesting voter manipulation in 2019 elections sparked a major political controversy with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Following Balakrishnan’s exit, his colleagues have written to the university’s governing body threatening a faculty exodus if Das is not reinstated. The English and Creative Writing departments have also extended their support to the demand, reports PTI news agency. 'Won't carry out teaching obligations' In a joint statement, they said that they would not be able to carry out their teaching obligations "unless questions regarding basic academic freedoms are resolved before the Monsoon 2023 semester". "The offer of resignation by our colleague Prof. Sabyasachi Das and its hasty acceptance by the University has deeply ruptured the faith that we in the faculty of the Department of Economics, our colleagues, our students, and well-wishers of Ashoka University everywhere, had reposed in the university's leadership," the letter said. "We urge the governing body to address this immediately, but no later than August 23, 2023. Failure to do so will systematically wreck the largest academic department at Ashoka and the very viability of the Ashoka vision," it added. Furthermore, the professors have put out two demands. One, Professor Das' unconditional return to his position at Ashoka University, and second, the governing body to play no role in evaluating faculty research through any committee or any other structure. "Unless these questions regarding basic academic freedoms are resolved before the start of the Monsoon 2023 semester, faculty members of the department will find themselves unable to carry forward their teaching obligations in the spirit of critical enquiry and the fearless pursuit of truth that characterise our classrooms,” the letter stated. What was the controversy about? The university had earlier distanced itself from Das’ research paper ‘Democratic Backsliding in the World's Largest Democracy’ after it came under immense criticism. Also read | India's Ashoka University distances itself from disputed paper that questioned integrity of India's elections On social media, the varsity stated that social media activity or public activism by Ashoka faculty, students or staff in their “individual capacity” does not reflect its stand. Das later resigned and the university accepted his resignation. Also read | India: 33 academicians demand removal of names from 'rationalised' NCERT textbooks According to Das’ paper, the “disproportionate” wins were never observed in past elections by BJP or Congress, and also that they were mainly seen in states ruled by BJP at that time. His paper cites that the reasons for this could be that either the BJP committed electoral fraud or it was able to accurately predict closely contested seats and mobilise party workers to campaign more intensively. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ashoka University: Another professor quits, faculty members threaten exodus over research paper row

More than 100 people were arrested and at least 600 booked in two terror cases in the aftermath of the torching and ransacking of churches in eastern Pakistan city, police said on Thursday (Aug 17).

Jaranwala police chief Rizwan Khan said that 129 suspects had been arrested so far.

At least five churches came under attack in Jaranwala city of Faisalabad district on Wednesday, following claims that two Christian men desecrated the holy Quran.

Though the two men accused of damaging the Quran, Islam's holy book, have not been arrested, they have been charged with blasphemy, which is punishable by death in Pakistan.

So far, no casualties have been reported, the authorities said.

<h2>Situation tense on ground&nbsp;</h2>

The situation still remained tense on the ground in Jaranwala, but the local media reports indicated that life was coming back to normal with Christians slowly returning to their homes.

The district authorities have imposed Section 144 for seven days, prohibiting all kinds of assembly, except for events organised by the government.

Media reports said that at least one church was burning on Thursday and four others were also damaged.

“This was a well thought out plan to disrupt peace and a high-level investigation is underway regarding the desecration of the Holy Quran and incidents that take place afterwards,” a spokesperson for the provincial government of Punjab said in a statement.

At least two dozen homes belonging to Christian families were torched or badly damaged during the riots.

<h2>Punjab interim CM vows to restore churches&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the day, the Punjab government ordered the formation of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the incident, in line with directives issued by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq.

Addressing the reporters, Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi vowed to restore all the churches and Christians’ homes within three to four days.

He also condemned Wednesday’s violence and described such incidents as anti-Islam and against the teachings of the Holy Prophet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-expresses-concern-over-attacks-on-christian-community-in-pakistan-626235">US State Department expresses concern over attacks on Christian community in Pakistan</a>

“For the future, we should sit with our minorities and chalk out a plan to prevent such incidents,” he stressed, urging religious leaders to spread the message of the Holy Quran among the people.

On Wednesday, the US urged Pakistan to investigate the mob attacks against churches and Christian homes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mob-of-thousands-burns-churches-attacks-christian-colonies-sequence-of-events-626139">Pakistan: Mob of thousands burns churches, attacks Christian colonies | Sequence of events</a>

“We are deeply concerned that churches and homes were targeted in response to reported Quran desecration in Pakistan,” the State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 100 people were arrested and at least 600 booked in two terror cases in the aftermath of the torching and ransacking of churches in eastern Pakistan city, police said on Thursday (Aug 17).

More than 100 people were arrested and at least 600 booked in two terror cases in the aftermath of the torching and ransacking of churches in eastern Pakistan city, police said on Thursday (Aug 17). Jaranwala police chief Rizwan Khan said that 129 suspects had been arrested so far. At least five churches came under attack in Jaranwala city of Faisalabad district on Wednesday, following claims that two Christian men desecrated the holy Quran. Though the two men accused of damaging the Quran, Islam's holy book, have not been arrested, they have been charged with blasphemy, which is punishable by death in Pakistan. So far, no casualties have been reported, the authorities said. Situation tense on ground The situation still remained tense on the ground in Jaranwala, but the local media reports indicated that life was coming back to normal with Christians slowly returning to their homes. The district authorities have imposed Section 144 for seven days, prohibiting all kinds of assembly, except for events organised by the government. Media reports said that at least one church was burning on Thursday and four others were also damaged. “This was a well thought out plan to disrupt peace and a high-level investigation is underway regarding the desecration of the Holy Quran and incidents that take place afterwards,” a spokesperson for the provincial government of Punjab said in a statement. At least two dozen homes belonging to Christian families were torched or badly damaged during the riots. Punjab interim CM vows to restore churches Earlier in the day, the Punjab government ordered the formation of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the incident, in line with directives issued by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq. Addressing the reporters, Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi vowed to restore all the churches and Christians’ homes within three to four days. He also condemned Wednesday’s violence and described such incidents as anti-Islam and against the teachings of the Holy Prophet. Also read | US State Department expresses concern over attacks on Christian community in Pakistan “For the future, we should sit with our minorities and chalk out a plan to prevent such incidents,” he stressed, urging religious leaders to spread the message of the Holy Quran among the people. On Wednesday, the US urged Pakistan to investigate the mob attacks against churches and Christian homes. Also read | Pakistan: Mob of thousands burns churches, attacks Christian colonies | Sequence of events “We are deeply concerned that churches and homes were targeted in response to reported Quran desecration in Pakistan,” the State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 120 arrested, 600 booked on terrorism charges after Pakistan mob attacks churches

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