An eminent scientist on Sunday swuggested a shift system in schools to prevent spread of the coronavirus and continuing with online classes with focus on project-based learning in a big way to promote creativity.

Former Director General of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) V K Saraswat supported the idea of online teaching in the absence of regular classes in view of closure of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

But, he said it should be organised in far better and more interactive ways so that delivery of knowledge can be better.

The NITI Aayog member stressed the need for schools to have a strategy when they reopen keeping in mind the safety of students.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-overtakes-spain-with-9971-new-cases-5th-highest-in-world-303934">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world</a>

May be they will have to organise shifts so that within the same space they can handle the students; may be they will have to employ more teachers, and they can run two shifts.

"May be half the strength in a class can come in the morning and others in the afternoon. Or students of first to sixth standard can come in the morning and seventh to tenth can come in the afternoon, Saraswat told PTI.

Reopening strategy will have to be worked out by the education department, added the former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister.

Along with normal classes, online education should be continued as a regular system in future, and promoted in a big way because that is the way technology is going to help delivery of knowledge, he added.

Saraswat also raised the pitch for reforms in the education sector, saying India is facing the problem of rote learning. 
Rote learning has to give way for more project-based teaching, he underlined.

Children should be made to work on projects at home and that can be done online. That will also support the changeover from rote learning to creative learning.

I personally believe the education delivery system -- primary, secondary and college levels -- has to be completely changed because creativity in India is less and creativity would come only if we replace rote learning with project-based learning, Saraswat said.

On some academics holding the view that the marks-based model is killing the education system in India as it does not promote creativity, he said evaluation of any outcome is important.

Even when we perform in our normal way, evaluation cannot be replaced. Otherwise, you cant find out how much you have succeeded in delivery. Certainly evaluation cannot be dispensed with.

He did not agree with some experts, who favoured a single, uniform system for school education in India by dispensing with CBSE, ICSE and state boards.

I am not for normalising everything in life. I personally believe variety should be there. This concept of one kind of a system is okay for a Communist society, society which was trying to drive everybody like a herd, he said.

Creativity comes with variety, and there is nothing wrong in having different kinds of education system, but one thing which is important is we have to integrate vocational training as part of the education curriculum," Saraswat said.

Vocational part cannot be kept away from the education system, he added.

An eminent scientist on Sunday swuggested a shift system in schools to prevent spread of the coronavirus and continuing with online classes with focus on project-based learning in a big way to promote creativity.

An eminent scientist on Sunday swuggested a shift system in schools to prevent spread of the coronavirus and continuing with online classes with focus on project-based learning in a big way to promote creativity. Former Director General of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) V K Saraswat supported the idea of online teaching in the absence of regular classes in view of closure of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But, he said it should be organised in far better and more interactive ways so that delivery of knowledge can be better. The NITI Aayog member stressed the need for schools to have a strategy when they reopen keeping in mind the safety of students. Also read: COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world May be they will have to organise shifts so that within the same space they can handle the students; may be they will have to employ more teachers, and they can run two shifts. "May be half the strength in a class can come in the morning and others in the afternoon. Or students of first to sixth standard can come in the morning and seventh to tenth can come in the afternoon, Saraswat told PTI. Reopening strategy will have to be worked out by the education department, added the former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister. Along with normal classes, online education should be continued as a regular system in future, and promoted in a big way because that is the way technology is going to help delivery of knowledge, he added. Saraswat also raised the pitch for reforms in the education sector, saying India is facing the problem of rote learning. Rote learning has to give way for more project-based teaching, he underlined. Children should be made to work on projects at home and that can be done online. That will also support the changeover from rote learning to creative learning. I personally believe the education delivery system -- primary, secondary and college levels -- has to be completely changed because creativity in India is less and creativity would come only if we replace rote learning with project-based learning, Saraswat said. On some academics holding the view that the marks-based model is killing the education system in India as it does not promote creativity, he said evaluation of any outcome is important. Even when we perform in our normal way, evaluation cannot be replaced. Otherwise, you cant find out how much you have succeeded in delivery. Certainly evaluation cannot be dispensed with. He did not agree with some experts, who favoured a single, uniform system for school education in India by dispensing with CBSE, ICSE and state boards. I am not for normalising everything in life. I personally believe variety should be there. This concept of one kind of a system is okay for a Communist society, society which was trying to drive everybody like a herd, he said. Creativity comes with variety, and there is nothing wrong in having different kinds of education system, but one thing which is important is we have to integrate vocational training as part of the education curriculum," Saraswat said. Vocational part cannot be kept away from the education system, he added.

Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced that Delhi's borders will be opened for inter-state movement from tomorrow and hospitals here will be available for people of Delhi only, while Central hospitals will remain open for all.

In another big development, Delhi Government has decided to withdraw the 'special corona fee' levied at 70 per cent of the maximum retail price on all categories of liquor, with effect from June 10, 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-overtakes-spain-with-9971-new-cases-5th-highest-in-world-303934">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world</a>

"We are opening Delhi borders from tomorrow. Delhi hospitals will be available for people of Delhi only, while Central hospitals will remain open for all. By the end of June, Delhi would need 15,000 beds," said Kejriwal in an address through video conferencing.

He, however, said that the hospitals run by the Centre will be open for all.

The chief minister also said that all restaurants, malls and places of worship will resume activity the national capital from tomorrow, however, hotels and banquet halls will continue to remain closed in Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced that Delhi's borders will be opened for inter-state movement from tomorrow and hospitals here will be available for people of Delhi only, while Central hospitals will remain open for all.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced that Delhi's borders will be opened for inter-state movement from tomorrow and hospitals here will be available for people of Delhi only, while Central hospitals will remain open for all. In another big development, Delhi Government has decided to withdraw the 'special corona fee' levied at 70 per cent of the maximum retail price on all categories of liquor, with effect from June 10, 2020. Also read: COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world "We are opening Delhi borders from tomorrow. Delhi hospitals will be available for people of Delhi only, while Central hospitals will remain open for all. By the end of June, Delhi would need 15,000 beds," said Kejriwal in an address through video conferencing. He, however, said that the hospitals run by the Centre will be open for all. The chief minister also said that all restaurants, malls and places of worship will resume activity the national capital from tomorrow, however, hotels and banquet halls will continue to remain closed in Delhi.

Delhi govt to open borders from Monday, withdraws special corona fee on liquor

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ruled out the return to a strict shutdown to stem the spread of coronavirus, saying the "elitist" idea would collapse the economy and increase poverty even as the COVID-19 cases in the country on Sunday inched closure to the 100,000-mark while the death toll rose to over 2,000.

A record 4,960 fresh coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 98,943, according to the Ministry of National Health Services.

With 67 more fatalities due to COVID-19, the death toll jumped to 2,002 in the country. The Health Ministry said that on the positive side, at least 33,465 patients have fully recovered so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/american-blogger-accuses-pakistans-zardari-govt-officials-of-rape-harassment-former-minister-denies-charges-303796">Also read:&nbsp;American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges&nbsp;</a>

So far 37,090 cases have been reported in Punjab, 36,364 in Sindh, 13,001 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 6,221 in Balochistan, 4,979 in Islamabad, 927 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 361 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Amid the spike in coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Khan on Saturday called for creating awareness among the masses regarding the severity of the coronavirus pandemic and the need for strict observance of the standard operating procedures (SOPs), the Express Tribune reported.

Khan again ruled out the return to a strict lockdown to stem the spread of coronavirus, stressing that the ?elitist? idea would cause the economy to collapse and increase poverty. Instead, he insisted on a ?smart lockdown? with strict adherence to the SOPs.

"And some of our elite, wanting a lockdown - the elite who have the privilege of spacious homes and income unaffected by fallout of lockdown," he said in a series of tweets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/kabul-denounces-pakistans-accusations-of-ttp-using-afghan-soil-to-destabilise-region-303818">Also read:&nbsp;Kabul denounces Pakistan's accusations of TTP using Afghan soil to destabilise region</a>

"A lockdown means collapse of the economy and in poorer countries a steep rise in poverty, crushing the poor as happened in Modi's lockdown in India," the prime minister added.

"Only solution as world has discovered is smart lockdown which allows for economic activity with SOPs. We are amongst pioneers of this approach. I appeal to civil society, media, Ulema and our tiger force to create awareness amongst the public of Covid-19's severity and the need to strictly observe SOPs," he tweeted.

Earlier this week, the prime minister ordered reopening of more sectors of the economy as part of easing the lockdown in order save people's livelihood, particularly the daily-wage workers. However, since then there is a spurt in new cases.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ruled out the return to a strict shutdown to stem the spread of coronavirus, saying the "elitist" idea would collapse the economy and increase poverty even as the COVID-19 cases in the country on Sunday inched closure to the 100,000-mark while the death toll rose to over 2,000.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ruled out the return to a strict shutdown to stem the spread of coronavirus, saying the "elitist" idea would collapse the economy and increase poverty even as the COVID-19 cases in the country on Sunday inched closure to the 100,000-mark while the death toll rose to over 2,000. A record 4,960 fresh coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 98,943, according to the Ministry of National Health Services. With 67 more fatalities due to COVID-19, the death toll jumped to 2,002 in the country. The Health Ministry said that on the positive side, at least 33,465 patients have fully recovered so far. Also read: American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges So far 37,090 cases have been reported in Punjab, 36,364 in Sindh, 13,001 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 6,221 in Balochistan, 4,979 in Islamabad, 927 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 361 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Amid the spike in coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Khan on Saturday called for creating awareness among the masses regarding the severity of the coronavirus pandemic and the need for strict observance of the standard operating procedures (SOPs), the Express Tribune reported. Khan again ruled out the return to a strict lockdown to stem the spread of coronavirus, stressing that the ?elitist? idea would cause the economy to collapse and increase poverty. Instead, he insisted on a ?smart lockdown? with strict adherence to the SOPs. "And some of our elite, wanting a lockdown - the elite who have the privilege of spacious homes and income unaffected by fallout of lockdown," he said in a series of tweets. Also read: Kabul denounces Pakistan's accusations of TTP using Afghan soil to destabilise region "A lockdown means collapse of the economy and in poorer countries a steep rise in poverty, crushing the poor as happened in Modi's lockdown in India," the prime minister added. "Only solution as world has discovered is smart lockdown which allows for economic activity with SOPs. We are amongst pioneers of this approach. I appeal to civil society, media, Ulema and our tiger force to create awareness amongst the public of Covid-19's severity and the need to strictly observe SOPs," he tweeted. Earlier this week, the prime minister ordered reopening of more sectors of the economy as part of easing the lockdown in order save people's livelihood, particularly the daily-wage workers. However, since then there is a spurt in new cases.

COVID-19 cases in Pakistan inching closer to 100,000-mark

Thousands of Israelis took to streets to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu's plan to extend sovereignty over parts of the occupied West Bank, de-facto annexation of land that the Palestinians seek for a state.

The decision by the controversial Prime Minister has not gone well with all communities of Israel.

With the banner of&nbsp;"No to annexation, no to occupation, yes to peace and democracy", a lot of protestors also waved the Palestinian flag.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/israel-caught-in-the-middle-of-intensifying-rivalry-between-us-and-china-302292">Also read:&nbsp;Israel caught in the middle of intensifying rivalry between US and China</a>

The protests, organised&nbsp;&nbsp;by left-wing groups, paid heed to the precautions of coronavirus. Majority protestors were spotted wearing face masks, while some also wore gloves. Roads were marked with squares to guide people where to stand to maintain proper social distance.

The guidelines were followed keeping in mind the rising number of coronavirus positive cases in the country, post the lifting of lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-lawmaker-who-was-spotted-without-masks-tests-positive-700-employees-quarantined-303293">Also read:&nbsp;Israel's lawmaker who was spotted without masks tests positive; 700 employees quarantined</a>

While the protest saw&nbsp;attendance of thousands of people, a recent opinion poll has revealed around half of Israelis support annexation.

A video address by US Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders was also screened by the organisers in which Sanders called for justice and said,&nbsp;"It has never been more important to stand up for justice, and to fight for the future we all deserve. It’s up to all of us to stand up to authoritarian leaders and to build a peaceful future for every Palestinian and every Israeli."

The US President Donald Trump&nbsp;has unveiled a peace plan that requires Palestinians to establish&nbsp;a state under stringent conditions, but Israelis get to retain their establishments.

Israel's PM has, meanwhile,&nbsp;set July 1 as the date to begin advancing his plan. Palestinians have rejected his plan.

Some European and Arab states, along with the United Nations, have voiced concerns against this plan, calling it illegal, and have also warned Israel of possible violence in the country, and diplomatic repercussions.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

Thousands of Israelis took to streets to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to extend sovereignty over parts of the occupied West Bank, de-facto annexation of land that the Palestinians seek for a state.

Thousands of Israelis took to streets to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to extend sovereignty over parts of the occupied West Bank, de-facto annexation of land that the Palestinians seek for a state. The decision by the controversial Prime Minister has not gone well with all communities of Israel. With the banner of "No to annexation, no to occupation, yes to peace and democracy", a lot of protestors also waved the Palestinian flag. Also read: Israel caught in the middle of intensifying rivalry between US and China The protests, organised by left-wing groups, paid heed to the precautions of coronavirus. Majority protestors were spotted wearing face masks, while some also wore gloves. Roads were marked with squares to guide people where to stand to maintain proper social distance. The guidelines were followed keeping in mind the rising number of coronavirus positive cases in the country, post the lifting of lockdown. Also read: Israel's lawmaker who was spotted without masks tests positive; 700 employees quarantined While the protest saw attendance of thousands of people, a recent opinion poll has revealed around half of Israelis support annexation. A video address by US Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders was also screened by the organisers in which Sanders called for justice and said, "It has never been more important to stand up for justice, and to fight for the future we all deserve. It’s up to all of us to stand up to authoritarian leaders and to build a peaceful future for every Palestinian and every Israeli." The US President Donald Trump has unveiled a peace plan that requires Palestinians to establish a state under stringent conditions, but Israelis get to retain their establishments. Israel's PM has, meanwhile, set July 1 as the date to begin advancing his plan. Palestinians have rejected his plan. Some European and Arab states, along with the United Nations, have voiced concerns against this plan, calling it illegal, and have also warned Israel of possible violence in the country, and diplomatic repercussions. (With inputs from Reuters)

Israel: Thousands march against PM Benjamin Netanyahu's plans

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Brazil takes down COVID-19 data; lowers total cases and increasing death toll The official website, covid.saude.gov.br, was taken down on Friday for few hours and was made active again on Saturday.

Brazil takes down COVID-19 data; lowers total cases and increasing death toll The official website, covid.saude.gov.br, was taken down on Friday for few hours and was made active again on Saturday. However, the website on Saturday saw a new layout and saw changed figures. READ MORE Two Buffalo police officers charged with assault in shoving 75-year old to ground Robert McCabe and Aaron Torgalski, who surrendered on Saturday morning, pleaded not guilty to second-degree assault. They were released without bail. READ MORE 'Black Lives Matter' protestors rally at Trump golf resort in Florida A separate sign -- 'Don't Be A Bunker Boy' -- was a reference to reports that Trump went into the White House bunker when protests in Washington got more violent. READ MORE University cancels Ivanka's graduation speech, invite dropped over Trump's action × Major Hydroxychloroquine trial for COVID-19 treatment halted ×

Morning news brief: Anti-racism protestors rally at Trump golf resort, Buffalo police officers charged with assault and more

India saw yet another highest spike in the number of new coronavirus cases, as the&nbsp;Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported&nbsp;9971 new&nbsp;cases and&nbsp;287 deaths in the last 24 hours.

The total number of cases in the country is now at 2,46,628, including 1,20,406 active cases, 1,19,293 cured/discharged/migrated patients and 6,929 deaths.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has conducted 1,42,069 new samples in the past 24 hours. A total of 44,66,386 samples have been conducted till now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-more-die-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-taking-total-death-toll-to-251-303883">Also read:&nbsp;19 more die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu taking total death toll to 251</a>

Mumbai, which has been the epicenter of the country, reported 1,274 new cases and 57 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. The total number of cases has increased to 47,128 and death toll now stands at 1,575, according to the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

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Uttarakhand reports 58 new cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>; number of total cases stands at 1303: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/g58dOc60Em">pic.twitter.com/g58dOc60Em</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1269283662794612746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi, another badly-hit city, reported an increase on 1,320 cases, taking total number of cases to 27,654 out of which 16,229 cases are active. A total of 761 people have succumbed to the virus so far. No death has been reported in the last 24 hours, reported Delhi Health Department.

A five-member committee formed by the state government has predicted that the number of cases in the capital can cross one lakh by the end of the current month.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Delhi's doubling rate is 15 days. Based on our projections, the number of cases would increase. About 25 per cent of patients will require hospitalisation," an official stated.

However, Delhi Medical Association has locked horns with the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and has voiced their opinion against the alleged disrespectful treatment and allegations of the medical industry by the Delhi government.

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Delhi Medical Association strongly condemns the way Delhi CM is warning the doctors &amp; threatening hospitals about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> patients' admissions&amp;tests. FIR on Sir Ganga Ram Hospital is highly condemnable and demoralizing for the whole medical fraternity: Delhi Medical Association <a href="https://t.co/SsirANUdVC">pic.twitter.com/SsirANUdVC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1269467131218821120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rajasthan reported&nbsp;253 new cases and 13 deaths, taking the total number of cases to 10,337 and death toll to 231. Number of active cases stands at 2,605.

Haryana's total number of cases rose to 3,952, with an increase of 355 cases. A total of 24 people have lost their battle against the virus.

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1269296764936318976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Madhya Pradesh recorded 232 new cases and 15 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 9,228 and death toll to 399. There are a total of 2,721 active cases in the state.

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Number of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases reaches 4831 in Bihar, with 86 more people testing positive today: State Health Department
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1269315281555353600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Uttar Pradesh, too, saw a rise in the number of cases as the state government reported&nbsp;382 fresh cases of and 11 deaths&nbsp;in last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 10,103 and death toll to 268. Number of active cases stands at 3,927.

Assam saw an increase of&nbsp;230 cases last night, taking the total number of cases to 2,473, including 588 discharged and 4 deaths, according to Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Number of&nbsp;cases rose to 3,496 in Telangana with 206 more people testing positive. State health department reported 123 deaths in total.

India now has world's fifth highest number of cases. There are more than 6.6 million cases and nearly 393,000 deaths worldwide.

India saw yet another highest spike in the number of new coronavirus cases, as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported 9971 new cases and 287 deaths in the last 24 hours.

India saw yet another highest spike in the number of new coronavirus cases, as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported 9971 new cases and 287 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country is now at 2,46,628, including 1,20,406 active cases, 1,19,293 cured/discharged/migrated patients and 6,929 deaths. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has conducted 1,42,069 new samples in the past 24 hours. A total of 44,66,386 samples have been conducted till now. Also read: 19 more die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu taking total death toll to 251 Mumbai, which has been the epicenter of the country, reported 1,274 new cases and 57 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. The total number of cases has increased to 47,128 and death toll now stands at 1,575, according to the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. Uttarakhand reports 58 new cases of #COVID19; number of total cases stands at 1303: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/g58dOc60Em — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2020 × Delhi, another badly-hit city, reported an increase on 1,320 cases, taking total number of cases to 27,654 out of which 16,229 cases are active. A total of 761 people have succumbed to the virus so far. No death has been reported in the last 24 hours, reported Delhi Health Department. A five-member committee formed by the state government has predicted that the number of cases in the capital can cross one lakh by the end of the current month. "Delhi's doubling rate is 15 days. Based on our projections, the number of cases would increase. About 25 per cent of patients will require hospitalisation," an official stated. However, Delhi Medical Association has locked horns with the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and has voiced their opinion against the alleged disrespectful treatment and allegations of the medical industry by the Delhi government. Delhi Medical Association strongly condemns the way Delhi CM is warning the doctors & threatening hospitals about #COVID19 patients' admissions&tests. FIR on Sir Ganga Ram Hospital is highly condemnable and demoralizing for the whole medical fraternity: Delhi Medical Association pic.twitter.com/SsirANUdVC — ANI (@ANI) June 7, 2020 × Rajasthan reported 253 new cases and 13 deaths, taking the total number of cases to 10,337 and death toll to 231. Number of active cases stands at 2,605. Haryana's total number of cases rose to 3,952, with an increase of 355 cases. A total of 24 people have lost their battle against the virus. #UPDATE Number of COVID-19 positive cases reaches 400 in Himachal Pradesh: State Health Department https://t.co/KSYICUh2dr — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2020 × Madhya Pradesh recorded 232 new cases and 15 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 9,228 and death toll to 399. There are a total of 2,721 active cases in the state. Number of #COVID19 cases reaches 4831 in Bihar, with 86 more people testing positive today: State Health Department — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2020 × Uttar Pradesh, too, saw a rise in the number of cases as the state government reported 382 fresh cases of and 11 deaths in last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 10,103 and death toll to 268. Number of active cases stands at 3,927. Assam saw an increase of 230 cases last night, taking the total number of cases to 2,473, including 588 discharged and 4 deaths, according to Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Number of cases rose to 3,496 in Telangana with 206 more people testing positive. State health department reported 123 deaths in total. India now has world's fifth highest number of cases. There are more than 6.6 million cases and nearly 393,000 deaths worldwide.

COVID 19: India overtakes Spain with 9971 new cases; 5th highest in world

Dozens of scientists who are conducting research, backed by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, have advised the CEO to atleast flag the posts published by the US President Donald Trump.

The researchers believe that the social media giant should&nbsp;not allow Donald Trump use&nbsp;the social media platform to "spread both misinformation and incendiary statements."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-will-review-its-content-policies-says-zuckerberg-after-backlash-303746">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook will review its content policies, says Zuckerberg after backlash</a>&nbsp;

The researchers have asked Zuckerberg to consider the sensitive time that the country is going through and ensure "stricter policies on misinformation and incendiary language that harms people."

The team of researchers sent a letter to the Facebook CEO&nbsp;giving their suggestions. The letter had 160 signatories, out of these 160, about&nbsp;10% are employees of Chan Zuckerberg foundations and nearly 60 professors are from leading US research institutions.

The research is led by Debora Marks of Harvard Medical School,&nbsp;Martin Kampmann of the University of California-San Francisco and Jason Shepherd of the University of Utah.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-place-state-media-labels-on-russian-chinese-outlets-303466">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook to place state media labels on Russian, Chinese outlets</a>

All of them have grants from a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative program,&nbsp;working to prevent, cure and treat neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The initiative is run by Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan.&nbsp;

The letter calls the spread of "deliberate misinformation and divisive language."

The researchers are looking at using technology to prevent and eradicate disease, improve childhood education and reform the criminal justice system.

The researchers' mission "is antithetical to some of the stances that Facebook has been taking, so we're encouraging them to be more on the side of truth and on the right side of history as we've said in the letter," said&nbsp;Debora Marks of Harvard Medical School.

The letter clearly voices against the post of Trump in which he said 'when looting starts, shooting starts'. The researchers claimed this was "a clear statement of inciting violence". The researchers have voiced against such insensitive posts and has asked the Facebook CEO to flag such posts.

There has been no comment from Zuckerberg or the&nbsp;Chan Zuckerberg Initiative program.

Dozens of scientists who are conducting research, backed by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, have advised the CEO to atleast flag the posts published by the US President Donald Trump.

Dozens of scientists who are conducting research, backed by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, have advised the CEO to atleast flag the posts published by the US President Donald Trump. The researchers believe that the social media giant should not allow Donald Trump use the social media platform to "spread both misinformation and incendiary statements." Also read: Facebook will review its content policies, says Zuckerberg after backlash The researchers have asked Zuckerberg to consider the sensitive time that the country is going through and ensure "stricter policies on misinformation and incendiary language that harms people." The team of researchers sent a letter to the Facebook CEO giving their suggestions. The letter had 160 signatories, out of these 160, about 10% are employees of Chan Zuckerberg foundations and nearly 60 professors are from leading US research institutions. The research is led by Debora Marks of Harvard Medical School, Martin Kampmann of the University of California-San Francisco and Jason Shepherd of the University of Utah. Also read: Facebook to place state media labels on Russian, Chinese outlets All of them have grants from a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative program, working to prevent, cure and treat neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The initiative is run by Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan. The letter calls the spread of "deliberate misinformation and divisive language." The researchers are looking at using technology to prevent and eradicate disease, improve childhood education and reform the criminal justice system. The researchers' mission "is antithetical to some of the stances that Facebook has been taking, so we're encouraging them to be more on the side of truth and on the right side of history as we've said in the letter," said Debora Marks of Harvard Medical School. The letter clearly voices against the post of Trump in which he said 'when looting starts, shooting starts'. The researchers claimed this was "a clear statement of inciting violence". The researchers have voiced against such insensitive posts and has asked the Facebook CEO to flag such posts. There has been no comment from Zuckerberg or the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative program.

Flag Trump's 'incendiary statements' on Facebook: Zuckerberg-funded researchers advice

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has&nbsp;denied charges.

Cynthia D. Ritchie, who shifted to Pakistan from America in 2010, revealed the details and the threats&nbsp;through a Facebook live video.&nbsp;(The user has advised for parental&nbsp;guidance, and has mentioned trigger warning)

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Cynthia D. Ritchie first visited Pakistan in 2009. She claims to have been&nbsp;invited by then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and then Interior Minister Rehman Malik to help in building Pakistan’s image. She said she was a communications consultant to the PPP.&nbsp;

As things were going well, she shifted to Pakistan towards the end of 2010, and now resides in Islamabad.

However, things were not all rosy for her in this long journey, she claims. She has accused&nbsp;Rehman Malik of raping her in 2011, after lacing her drink with sedatives. She also accused former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and former health minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin of physically manhandling her inside the President’s House in Islamabad.

Pakistan was then under the government of&nbsp;Asif Ali Zardari.

However, former prime minister Gilani has denied the charges, and has called the allegations a form of&nbsp;"humiliation and disgrace". He has further accused Cynthia of maligning him&nbsp;because his two sons had filed a defamation case against her for her allegedly defamatory tweet against late Benazir Bhutto.&nbsp;

The other two ministers have not yet replied to the accusations.

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Occurred at IM's house in min enclave 2011 around the OBL incident. I thought it a meeting about my visa but I was given flowers/ a drugged drink. I kept quiet - who in PPP gov't would help me against PPP IM? 
 
Recently they attacked family; I've had it. Ready to face any accuser <a href="https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs">https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268921048822661125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As she went live on Facebook on Friday, she backed her accusations by providing details and sequences of the events listed in her video. She also claimed to possess evidence in form on screenshots, text messages and call recordings. “I will be happy to go into more detail with an appropriate, neutral, and investigative journalist,” she said.

While she has not revealed the evidence and proof yet, she has assured that she will soon be revealing all of the mentioned evidence in a week or two. However, she did upload screenshots of her WhatsApp conversation with Nasir Rashid Baralvi, Secretary Information, PPP, UAE, after filing a report against him in the UAE.

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Thanks to those who helped in filing a report against this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PPP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PPP</a> worker in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a>. I will fully cooperate with all authorities to ensure justice is done. <a href="https://t.co/U4FOhc8XBc">pic.twitter.com/U4FOhc8XBc</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1269130781332590593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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She also claimed to have complained to the US Embassy in 2011. However, "due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate."

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And, yes, I did tell someone at the UsEmb in 2011, but due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate. 
 
I've been engaged to a wonderful man who I met in 🇵🇰. He encouraged me to speak out, so we can move on as a couple. <a href="https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib">https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268923253025882113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Revelations pour in

This is not the first shocking news that Cynthia has revealed. While this is a personal tragedy for her, she has also revealed images of members and leaders of PPP in situations which are not considered to be idle in "Muslim community".

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Is this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PPP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PPP</a> MNA Ramesh Lal throwing money that belongs to the poor people of Sindh on Senior Minister PPP Nisar Khuhro? 
 
Politicians are elected and answerable to the public. Can someone be honest with his constituency if he throws poor people's money? Also, Article 62(1)(F). <a href="https://t.co/bTlly1eNqd">pic.twitter.com/bTlly1eNqd</a>
— Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) <a href="https://twitter.com/CynthiaDRitchie/status/1268508497756463104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The freelance filmmaker and social media strategist had also&nbsp;posted parts of the book “Indecent Correspondence: Secret sex life of Benazir Bhutto" on Twitter. She highlighted the parts of the book which reveal details of private lives of Benazir Bhutto, her son and current PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto and senior party leader Sherry Rehman.

She also accused the late Benazir Bhutto of letting her guards rape women and made some disturbing accusations of the late&nbsp;leader's sex life. She also revealed a receipt of an adult toys store and&nbsp;challenged senior PPP leader Sherry Rehman to prove her allegations to be false.

While she claims to "have a lot of&nbsp;dirt on a lot of people in this country”, she has also accused PPP of sending rape and death threats to her, her friends and family. In her live video, she also mentioned that few party workers contacted her sisters who 'naively' revealed her location as they were unaware of the situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has denied charges.

An American blogger and former social media strategist of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has accused a former interior minister and former prime minister of rape and sexual assault -- through Facebook lives and a series of Twitter posts -- even as the former official has denied charges. Cynthia D. Ritchie, who shifted to Pakistan from America in 2010, revealed the details and the threats through a Facebook live video. (The user has advised for parental guidance, and has mentioned trigger warning) × Cynthia D. Ritchie first visited Pakistan in 2009. She claims to have been invited by then Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and then Interior Minister Rehman Malik to help in building Pakistan’s image. She said she was a communications consultant to the PPP. As things were going well, she shifted to Pakistan towards the end of 2010, and now resides in Islamabad. However, things were not all rosy for her in this long journey, she claims. She has accused Rehman Malik of raping her in 2011, after lacing her drink with sedatives. She also accused former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and former health minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin of physically manhandling her inside the President’s House in Islamabad. Pakistan was then under the government of Asif Ali Zardari. However, former prime minister Gilani has denied the charges, and has called the allegations a form of "humiliation and disgrace". He has further accused Cynthia of maligning him because his two sons had filed a defamation case against her for her allegedly defamatory tweet against late Benazir Bhutto. The other two ministers have not yet replied to the accusations. Occurred at IM's house in min enclave 2011 around the OBL incident. I thought it a meeting about my visa but I was given flowers/ a drugged drink. I kept quiet - who in PPP gov't would help me against PPP IM? Recently they attacked family; I've had it. Ready to face any accuser https://t.co/KkGSKTERQs — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 5, 2020 × As she went live on Facebook on Friday, she backed her accusations by providing details and sequences of the events listed in her video. She also claimed to possess evidence in form on screenshots, text messages and call recordings. “I will be happy to go into more detail with an appropriate, neutral, and investigative journalist,” she said. While she has not revealed the evidence and proof yet, she has assured that she will soon be revealing all of the mentioned evidence in a week or two. However, she did upload screenshots of her WhatsApp conversation with Nasir Rashid Baralvi, Secretary Information, PPP, UAE, after filing a report against him in the UAE. Thanks to those who helped in filing a report against this #PPP worker in #UAE. I will fully cooperate with all authorities to ensure justice is done. pic.twitter.com/U4FOhc8XBc — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 6, 2020 × She also claimed to have complained to the US Embassy in 2011. However, "due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate." And, yes, I did tell someone at the UsEmb in 2011, but due to 'fluid' situation and 'complex' relations between US and Pakistan, response was less than adequate. I've been engaged to a wonderful man who I met in 🇵🇰. He encouraged me to speak out, so we can move on as a couple. https://t.co/PpfdF9Fuib — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 5, 2020 × Revelations pour in This is not the first shocking news that Cynthia has revealed. While this is a personal tragedy for her, she has also revealed images of members and leaders of PPP in situations which are not considered to be idle in "Muslim community". Is this #PPP MNA Ramesh Lal throwing money that belongs to the poor people of Sindh on Senior Minister PPP Nisar Khuhro? Politicians are elected and answerable to the public. Can someone be honest with his constituency if he throws poor people's money? Also, Article 62(1)(F). pic.twitter.com/bTlly1eNqd — Cynthia D. Ritchie (@CynthiaDRitchie) June 4, 2020 × The freelance filmmaker and social media strategist had also posted parts of the book “Indecent Correspondence: Secret sex life of Benazir Bhutto" on Twitter. She highlighted the parts of the book which reveal details of private lives of Benazir Bhutto, her son and current PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto and senior party leader Sherry Rehman. She also accused the late Benazir Bhutto of letting her guards rape women and made some disturbing accusations of the late leader's sex life. She also revealed a receipt of an adult toys store and challenged senior PPP leader Sherry Rehman to prove her allegations to be false. While she claims to "have a lot of dirt on a lot of people in this country”, she has also accused PPP of sending rape and death threats to her, her friends and family. In her live video, she also mentioned that few party workers contacted her sisters who 'naively' revealed her location as they were unaware of the situation. (With inputs from agencies)

American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges

Brazil has been the centre of criticism for few weeks now due to the country's rising number of coronavirus cases, and the poor response from&nbsp;President Jair Bolsonaro.

'Another day, another controversy' became real in Brazil, as the country removed&nbsp;months of COVID-19 related data from public view on Saturday.

"The cumulative data ... does not reflect the moment the country is in," Bolsonaro said on Twitter, citing a note from the ministry. "Other actions are underway to improve the reporting of cases and confirmation of diagnoses."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-threatens-who-exit-after-facing-backlash-for-reopening-economy-303751">Also read:&nbsp;Bolsonaro threatens WHO exit after facing backlash for reopening economy</a>

Brazil has the second-highest number of coronavirus cases, and the number has been rising rapidly, as the Brazilian President still calls it "just a flu".

Brazil, since the beginning of the pandemic, had been maintaining a website with the cumulative data, divided by state and municipality.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-cases-surge-past-600000-as-countrys-death-toll-passes-italy-303447">Also read:&nbsp;Brazil cases surge past 600,000 as country's death toll passes Italy</a>

However, on Saturday, the country's Health Ministry removed the data and&nbsp;also stopped giving a total count of confirmed cases and the death toll.

The official website,&nbsp;covid.saude.gov.br, was taken down on Friday for few hours and was made active again on Saturday. However, the website on Saturday saw a new layout and saw changed figures.

The revised website only showed&nbsp;a fraction of the data, reflecting only deaths, cases and recoveries within the last 24 hours.

Bolsonaro had gained criticism for actively undermining the critical condition of the country. He has been infamous for changing the Health Minister frequently, ignoring advice from health experts, and being irregular in daily coronavirus-related updates. He has also been recently accused of trying to silence the media.

The Brazilian government, last week, changed the time of its daily coronavirus update from 5pm to 10pm, which gained a lot of criticism from the local media. However, Bolsonaro tweeted on Saturday that a later daily update would "avoid undernotification and inconsistencies."

(With inputs from Reuters)

Brazil has been the centre of criticism for few weeks now due to the country's rising number of coronavirus cases, and the poor response from President Jair Bolsonaro.

Brazil has been the centre of criticism for few weeks now due to the country's rising number of coronavirus cases, and the poor response from President Jair Bolsonaro. 'Another day, another controversy' became real in Brazil, as the country removed months of COVID-19 related data from public view on Saturday. "The cumulative data ... does not reflect the moment the country is in," Bolsonaro said on Twitter, citing a note from the ministry. "Other actions are underway to improve the reporting of cases and confirmation of diagnoses." Also read: Bolsonaro threatens WHO exit after facing backlash for reopening economy Brazil has the second-highest number of coronavirus cases, and the number has been rising rapidly, as the Brazilian President still calls it "just a flu". Brazil, since the beginning of the pandemic, had been maintaining a website with the cumulative data, divided by state and municipality. Also read: Brazil cases surge past 600,000 as country's death toll passes Italy However, on Saturday, the country's Health Ministry removed the data and also stopped giving a total count of confirmed cases and the death toll. The official website, covid.saude.gov.br, was taken down on Friday for few hours and was made active again on Saturday. However, the website on Saturday saw a new layout and saw changed figures. The revised website only showed a fraction of the data, reflecting only deaths, cases and recoveries within the last 24 hours. Bolsonaro had gained criticism for actively undermining the critical condition of the country. He has been infamous for changing the Health Minister frequently, ignoring advice from health experts, and being irregular in daily coronavirus-related updates. He has also been recently accused of trying to silence the media. The Brazilian government, last week, changed the time of its daily coronavirus update from 5pm to 10pm, which gained a lot of criticism from the local media. However, Bolsonaro tweeted on Saturday that a later daily update would "avoid undernotification and inconsistencies." (With inputs from Reuters)

Brazil takes down COVID-19 data; lowers total cases and increasing death toll

Today in history: First cricket world cup, Israel-Iraq bombing and more

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced on Saturday that Libyan Parliament Speaker Aguila Saleh and eastern-based military leader Khalifa Haftar have welcomed an initiative to end the military conflict in the neighboring war-torn Libya.

The announcement came after Sisi attentded a meeting with Libyan leaders in Cairo. The meeting was organised to&nbsp;discuss the recent developments of the ongoing war civil war in Libya.

The peace-calling initiative is called&nbsp;Cairo Declaration. It seeks a cease-fire between the&nbsp;warring Libyan parties starting from June 8, a UN-supervised election of a Libyan presidential council and drafting a constitutional declaration to regulate elections for the later stage, Sisi said in a joint press conference with Haftar and Saleh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libyas-haftar-pulls-back-east-as-tripoli-offensive-crumbles-303763">Also read:&nbsp;Libya's Haftar pulls back east as Tripoli offensive crumbles</a>

Under the initiative, foreign mercenaries will pull out from Libya. All militias will dismantle and disarm, to allow the Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) take charge in the country, according to the Egyptian president.

Things have been tense in Libya since 2011 when former leader&nbsp;Muammar Gaddafi was assassinated, and later in 2014 the country was divided into two major parts -- one ruled by&nbsp;Government of National Accord (GNA), which is backed by UN,&nbsp;Turkey, Italy and Qatar and the other being LNA, backed by&nbsp;Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, France and Russia .

"The initiative calls for respecting all relevant UN efforts and initiatives. The initiative will mark a beginning for a new stage towards the return of normal and safe life to Libya," Sisi said.

Sisi's announcement was welcomed by other countries. The Egyptian President said he hopes the UN will invite all Libyan parties to the UN headquarters to relaunch the political process.

(With inputs from ANI)

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced on Saturday that Libyan Parliament Speaker Aguila Saleh and eastern-based military leader Khalifa Haftar have welcomed an initiative to end the military conflict in the neighboring war-torn Libya.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced on Saturday that Libyan Parliament Speaker Aguila Saleh and eastern-based military leader Khalifa Haftar have welcomed an initiative to end the military conflict in the neighboring war-torn Libya. The announcement came after Sisi attentded a meeting with Libyan leaders in Cairo. The meeting was organised to discuss the recent developments of the ongoing war civil war in Libya. The peace-calling initiative is called Cairo Declaration. It seeks a cease-fire between the warring Libyan parties starting from June 8, a UN-supervised election of a Libyan presidential council and drafting a constitutional declaration to regulate elections for the later stage, Sisi said in a joint press conference with Haftar and Saleh. Also read: Libya's Haftar pulls back east as Tripoli offensive crumbles Under the initiative, foreign mercenaries will pull out from Libya. All militias will dismantle and disarm, to allow the Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) take charge in the country, according to the Egyptian president. Things have been tense in Libya since 2011 when former leader Muammar Gaddafi was assassinated, and later in 2014 the country was divided into two major parts -- one ruled by Government of National Accord (GNA), which is backed by UN, Turkey, Italy and Qatar and the other being LNA, backed by Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, France and Russia . "The initiative calls for respecting all relevant UN efforts and initiatives. The initiative will mark a beginning for a new stage towards the return of normal and safe life to Libya," Sisi said. Sisi's announcement was welcomed by other countries. The Egyptian President said he hopes the UN will invite all Libyan parties to the UN headquarters to relaunch the political process. (With inputs from ANI)

Egypt's President offers peace-talks to end civil war in war-torn Libya

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis.

This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy.

The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-government-protesters-back-on-streets-after-3-months-pause-in-lebanon-303935">Also watch:&nbsp;Anti-government protesters back on streets after 3 months pause in Lebanon</a>

Protesters marched in the streets wearing face masks and gloves. However, social distancing was not maintained on the streets.

The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road.

Security forces responded by firing rounds of tear gas, footage from Lebanese broadcasters showed.

"The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter.

The country is facing extreme economic crisis, which the locals blame on corruption, claiming that the pandemic has only made it worse.

The pound currency has lost more than half of its value on the parallel market, prices have soared, and companies dealing with the double blow of the coronavirus have axed jobs.

(With inputs from Reuters)

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis.

As the government lifted the lockdown in Lebanon, people took to streets to protest against the way the government handled the pandemic, and for landing the country into a deep economic crisis. This was the first big anti-government protest since the three-month long lockdown has been lifted in the country, to help revive the crippling economy. The government is negotiating an International Monetary Fund package it hopes will secure billions of dollars in financing to prop up its collapsing economy. Also watch: Anti-government protesters back on streets after 3 months pause in Lebanon Protesters marched in the streets wearing face masks and gloves. However, social distancing was not maintained on the streets. The protests turned violent as people burned garbage bins and ransacked a furniture shop in the capital's upscale shopping district. The shop's windows and doors were broken. People also took out couch from the store to block that road. Security forces responded by firing rounds of tear gas, footage from Lebanese broadcasters showed. "The Prime Minister condemns and denounces in the strongest terms, all sectarian slogans ... and calls on all Lebanese and their political and spiritual leaders to exercise awareness and wisdom and cooperate with the army and security services," Prime Minister Hassan Diab wrote on Twitter. The country is facing extreme economic crisis, which the locals blame on corruption, claiming that the pandemic has only made it worse. The pound currency has lost more than half of its value on the parallel market, prices have soared, and companies dealing with the double blow of the coronavirus have axed jobs. (With inputs from Reuters)

Masks and gloves clad Lebanese join anti-government protests

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