The US State Department said on Thursday (Mar 14) that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments calling for new elections in Israel were his and not of the Joe Biden administration.

The US State Department said on Thursday (Mar 14) that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments calling for new elections in Israel were his and not of the Joe Biden administration. Earlier in the day, Schumer, a Democrat, criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by calling him an obstacle to peace. Schumer told the Senate that Netanyahu's government "no longer fits the needs of Israel" five months into a war that began with attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7 last year. Addressing a press conference, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "Congress is an independent branch of government. I think the government of Israel understands quite well how the US government works. They interact quite frequently, not just with members of the Executive Branch, but with members of Congress, including Senator Schumer, who has travelled to Israel a number of times over the years, and I'm sure they fully understand that he speaks for himself." On being asked if there was suspicion that Schumer was putting out publicly what had been said privately, Miller said, "These are statements made by Senator Schumer. Not by the Biden Administration." Schumer faces backlash for remarks Apart from calling for fresh elections in Israel, Schumer also said it would be a "grave mistake" for Israel to reject a two-state solution and urged negotiators in the Gaza war to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, free hostages, and get aid into the Gaza Strip. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Starvation being used as a weapon, says EU foreign policy chief The Democrat faced backlash for his remarks, with Israeli PM Netanyahu's Likud party saying that Israel was not a banana republic and that Netanyahu's policy had wide public support. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Likud said in a statement, "Contrary to Schumer's words, the Israeli public supports a total victory over Hamas, rejects any international diktats to establish a Palestinian terrorist state, and opposes the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza." Also watch | Israel urges UNSC to pressure Hamas on hostage release × "Senator Schumer is expected to respect Israel's elected government and not undermine it. This is always true, and even more so in wartime," the statement added. The Senate's Republican leader Mitch McConnell also criticised Schumer's remarks. "It is grotesque... and hypocritical... for Americans who hyperventilate about foreign interference in our own democracy to call for the removal of the democratically elected leader of Israel. This is unprecedented," McConnell said. Since the conflict began, prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden have been facing intense criticism from within the party over the US' unconditional support for Israel, given the impact on Palestinian civilians of Israel's offensive in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Schumer's comments on Israel PM Netanyahu are his, not US govt's, says State Department

Russian citizens residing in Kerala cast their votes for the Russian presidential elections at the booth specifically arranged at the Honorary Consulate of the Russian Federation, Russian House, in Thiruvananthapuram.

Ratheesh Nair, Honorary Consul of Russia and Director of the Russian House in Thiruvananthapuram, said, that they arranged polling for the Russian presidential elections for the third time. He expressed gratitude to Russian citizens in Kerala for their cooperation in the polling process.

In an interview with ANI, Nair said, "This is the third time the Consulate of Russian Federation is hosting polling for the&nbsp;Russian presidential elections. This is actually for Russian nationalists staying here and also for the tourists. We are happy to associate with the Central Election Commission of Russian Federation. I am very grateful to the Russian citizens in Kerala for their cooperation and enthusiasm to cast votes in the process of electing their new president."

Sergey Azurov, Senior Consul General in Chennai, said, "We are organising preliminary voting in the framework of presidential elections. We are here to provide an opportunity for the citizens of Russian federations living in India."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-urges-citizens-including-annexed-ukrainians-to-vote-as-moldova-accuses-russia-of-breaking-laws-699893">Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws</a>

Ulia, a Russian citizen, said fellow natives in Kerala are thankful to the Russian house and consulate general in India for providing them the opportunity to cast votes in the Presidential polls.

Speaking to ANI, Ulia said, "Everyone who came today are Russian citizens either residing permanently in India or are visiting tourists. Everybody is thankful and happy to come here and participate in the election, which is very important for every citizen. This is our responsibility. So, we are thankful to the Russian house and the consulate general in India from Chennai for providing this chance."

Russia is all set to hold presidential elections from March 15-17. Russian citizens will vote from Friday until Sunday across the 11 time zones of the country. Russia's Central Election Commission (CEC) approved only three candidates to oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, CNN reported.

The three candidates standing against Putin are Leonid Slutsky of the Liberal Democratic Party, Vladislav Davankov of the New People Party and Nikolay Kharitonov of the Communist Party. All three men are thought to be satisfactorily pro-Kremlin and none is against Russia's military action against Ukraine.

As the majority of opposition candidates are either dead, jailed, exiled, barred from running or simply token figures, a victory for Putin is all but guaranteed, according to a CNN report.

Putin's reelection would extend his rule until at least 2030. Following constitutional changes in 2020, he would then be able to run again and potentially stay in power until 2036.

Russian citizens residing in Kerala cast their votes for the Russian presidential elections at the booth specifically arranged at the Honorary Consulate of the Russian Federation, Russian House, in Thiruvananthapuram.

Russian citizens residing in Kerala cast their votes for the Russian presidential elections at the booth specifically arranged at the Honorary Consulate of the Russian Federation, Russian House, in Thiruvananthapuram. Ratheesh Nair, Honorary Consul of Russia and Director of the Russian House in Thiruvananthapuram, said, that they arranged polling for the Russian presidential elections for the third time. He expressed gratitude to Russian citizens in Kerala for their cooperation in the polling process. In an interview with ANI, Nair said, "This is the third time the Consulate of Russian Federation is hosting polling for the Russian presidential elections. This is actually for Russian nationalists staying here and also for the tourists. We are happy to associate with the Central Election Commission of Russian Federation. I am very grateful to the Russian citizens in Kerala for their cooperation and enthusiasm to cast votes in the process of electing their new president." Sergey Azurov, Senior Consul General in Chennai, said, "We are organising preliminary voting in the framework of presidential elections. We are here to provide an opportunity for the citizens of Russian federations living in India." Also read | Russia election 2024: Putin urges citizens to vote even as Moldova accuses Moscow of breaking laws Ulia, a Russian citizen, said fellow natives in Kerala are thankful to the Russian house and consulate general in India for providing them the opportunity to cast votes in the Presidential polls. Speaking to ANI, Ulia said, "Everyone who came today are Russian citizens either residing permanently in India or are visiting tourists. Everybody is thankful and happy to come here and participate in the election, which is very important for every citizen. This is our responsibility. So, we are thankful to the Russian house and the consulate general in India from Chennai for providing this chance." Russia is all set to hold presidential elections from March 15-17. Russian citizens will vote from Friday until Sunday across the 11 time zones of the country. Russia's Central Election Commission (CEC) approved only three candidates to oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, CNN reported. The three candidates standing against Putin are Leonid Slutsky of the Liberal Democratic Party, Vladislav Davankov of the New People Party and Nikolay Kharitonov of the Communist Party. All three men are thought to be satisfactorily pro-Kremlin and none is against Russia's military action against Ukraine. As the majority of opposition candidates are either dead, jailed, exiled, barred from running or simply token figures, a victory for Putin is all but guaranteed, according to a CNN report. Putin's reelection would extend his rule until at least 2030. Following constitutional changes in 2020, he would then be able to run again and potentially stay in power until 2036.

India's Kerala votes in Russian presidential elections. Here's how

Palestinian militant group Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal in the war-torn Gaza Strip to the mediators and the United States, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Mar 15).

Palestinian militant group Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal in the war-torn Gaza Strip to the mediators and the United States, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday (Mar 15). The proposal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners. As per the report, Hamas said that the initial release of Israelis would include women, children, elderly, and ill hostages in exchange for the release of 700-1000 Palestinian prisoners. The release of Israeli "female recruits" is included. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the new Hamas position was based on "unrealistic demands". Prime Minister Netanyahu downplayed the chances of a truce. Also read | Hamas accuses Israel of killing 29 Gazans waiting for aid, Tel Aviv denies attacks Since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7 last year, mediators Egypt and Qatar have been trying to narrow the differences between the warring factions over what a ceasefire should look like. The faltering truce talks & the new proposal Hamas had said that ceasefire talks faltered over the past few weeks due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of its demands. The militant group's demands include a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli withdrawal from the region, the return of the displaced in the south of the enclave to the centre and the north, and stepping up aid without restrictions. In the latest proposal, Hamas said a date for a permanent ceasefire would be agreed upon after the initial exchange of hostages and prisoners as well as a deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Also watch | Israeli PM Netanyahu meets Army Officers & soldiers, says 'will enter Rafah' × All detainees from both sides would be released in a second stage of the plan, Reuters further reported. The previous proposal In February, Hamas received a draft proposal from Gaza truce talks in Paris which included a 40-day pause in all military operations and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages at a ratio of 10 to one - a similar ratio to the new proposal. However, the draft proposal was rejected by Israel. The Israeli offensive in Gaza has killed more than 31,000 people and wounded over 71,500, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, and international pressure is mounting to have another ceasefire in the war-torn region. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Hamas presents ceasefire proposal to mediators, Netanyahu govt dismisses it as 'unrealistic'

The lower house of parliament in France on Thursday (Mar 14) approved a government-backed bill that seeks to impose penalties and other restrictions on fast fashion.

The lower house of parliament in France on Thursday (Mar 14) approved a government-backed bill that seeks to impose penalties and other restrictions on fast fashion. The bill was passed unanimously in the National Assembly and is due to be voted on by the Senate, Bloomberg reported. The move could hit cheap imports from countries like China. The report said that if the legislation becomes law, brands like Shein and Boohoo will be subject to new constraints such as a fee of as much as $10.9 on fast fashion products. Companies would also be required to display an environmental score and fast fashion labels would also be forbidden from advertising, the report added. What is fast fashion? Fast fashion is low-priced but stylish clothing that moves quickly from design to retail stores to meet clothing trends. According to Investopedia, fast fashion collections are often based on styles presented at fashion shows or worn by celebrities. Also read | Amsterdam 'fashion library' takes aim at clothes waste This type of clothing also allows mainstream consumers to purchase a new look at an affordable price, Investopedia adds. However, fast fashion is bad for the environment as it encourages a "throw-away" consumer mentality. Many people buying such clothing have admitted that they only wear their purchases once or twice. Critics have said that fast fashion contributes to pollution, waste, and planned obsolescence due to its cheap materials and manufacturing methods. Also read | Fast Fashion vs Slow Fashion: Understanding the environmental impact There are also concerns about unregulated labour practices. Investopedia further says that manufacturers in developing countries with little regulation may not oversee subcontractors, enforce workforce rules, or be transparent about their supply chain. France's clampdown on fast fashion Praising the bill, French Ecological Transition Minister Christophe Bechu said the legislation would make "France the first country in the world to legislate to limit the excesses of ultra-fast fashion.” ✅ L’Assemblée nationale vient d’adopter à l’unanimité une proposition de loi pour freiner l’essor de l’ultra fast-fashion. Je me réjouis de cette avancée majeure. Aujourd’hui, grâce au travail de @AnneCecileVio et des députés issus de tous les groupes politiques, un grand pas a… pic.twitter.com/qxDfyUX3eK — Christophe Béchu (@ChristopheBechu) March 14, 2024 × "I am delighted with this major breakthrough. Today, thanks to the work of Anne-Cécile Violland and deputies from all political groups, a big step has been taken to reduce the environmental footprint of the textile sector," Bechu said in a post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

France's bill that clamps down on 'fast fashion' could hit cheap imports from China

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter.

The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024.

"The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X.

"Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added.

There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard.

The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report.

"Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area.

The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday.

It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the&nbsp;migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks.

Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;and often temporarily impounding their ships.

Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores.

Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday.

As many as 60 people are feared to have drowned on a vessel carrying migrants across the Mediterranean from Libya to Italy or Malta, the operators of a charity rescue group said on Thursday. SOS Mediterranee said it rescued 25 people in a "very weak" condition in coordination with the Italian Coast Guard on Wednesday and that two unconscious people were flown to Sicily by helicopter. The central Mediterranean is one of the world's deadliest migration routes. According to the U.N. migration agency (IOM), almost 2,500 migrants died or went missing attempting the crossing last year, and 226 since the start of 2024. "The survivors departed from Zawiya, Libya, seven days before they were rescued," SOS Mediterranee posted on the social media platform X. "Their engine broke after three days, leaving their boat lost (and) adrift without water and food for days. Survivors report that at least 60 people perished on the way, including women and at least one child," it added. There was no immediate comment from the Italian Coastguard. The IOM said it was "deeply troubled" by the report. "Urgent action is needed to strengthen maritime patrols and prevent further tragedies," it said on X. In a post on X on Wednesday, the SOS Mediterranee said its Ocean Viking vessel had evacuated 25 people spotted using binoculars who were on a rubber boat drifting in the Libyan search and rescue area. The charity said it picked up a further 113 people, including two children, from a wooden boat and 88 from a packed rubber dingy, in rescue operations on Wednesday and Thursday. It said it had been instructed to sail to the Italian Adriatic port of Ancona, about 1,500 km (930 miles) away, but had asked for a closer disembarkation port given the poor condition of the migrants, some of whom are on oxygen masks. Charity groups like SOS Mediterranee and others complain that Italy's right-wing government is obstructing their rescue activities, forcing them to travel to distant ports to disembark migrants and often temporarily impounding their ships. Italy and other European Union governments are trying to curb the number of sea migrants making the crossing from North Africa, and have offered money or equipment to Libya and Tunisia to stop departures from their shores. Data from the Italian Interior Ministry record that 5,968 migrants have arrived by sea so far this year, down from 19,937 at the same stage in 2023.

Sixty migrants feared drowned crossing Mediterranean from Libya

The Joe Biden administration in the United States (US) has approved the sale of MQ9B Predator drones to India, media reports said on Friday (Mar 15). The approval signalled a major win for the Narendra Modi administration, as the deal underlined the deepening strategic partnership between India and the US, a report by News18 said. The deal sees the acquisition of 31 predator drones.

The deal was originally cleared last month but faced a delay due to objections raised by US senators. However, after the 30-day objection period, the final draft of acceptance was sent to India, the report added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/estonias-foreign-minister-talks-drones-cybersecurity-and-global-trade-in-exclusive-interview-with-wion-693066">Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION</a>

The US and India were examining various aspects of the deal, including the price component, but the pace of the negotiations slowed down after American federal prosecutors alleged an Indian link in a failed plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

In November last year, the US federal prosecutors accused Indian national Nikhil Gupta of working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Pannun, who holds dual citizenship of the US and Canada.

With the sale of drones now approved, India will use them to crank up the surveillance apparatus of the armed forces, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Joe Biden administration in the United States (US) has approved the sale of MQ9B Predator drones to India, media reports said on Friday (Mar 15). The approval signalled a major win for the Narendra Modi administration, as the deal underlined the deepening strategic partnership between India and the US, a report by News18 said.

The Joe Biden administration in the United States (US) has approved the sale of MQ9B Predator drones to India, media reports said on Friday (Mar 15). The approval signalled a major win for the Narendra Modi administration, as the deal underlined the deepening strategic partnership between India and the US, a report by News18 said. The deal sees the acquisition of 31 predator drones. The deal was originally cleared last month but faced a delay due to objections raised by US senators. However, after the 30-day objection period, the final draft of acceptance was sent to India, the report added. Also read | Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION The US and India were examining various aspects of the deal, including the price component, but the pace of the negotiations slowed down after American federal prosecutors alleged an Indian link in a failed plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. In November last year, the US federal prosecutors accused Indian national Nikhil Gupta of working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Pannun, who holds dual citizenship of the US and Canada. With the sale of drones now approved, India will use them to crank up the surveillance apparatus of the armed forces, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. (With inputs from agencies)

US approves sale of MQ9B Predator drones to India: Reports

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

San Bernardino Country sheriff's office on Thursday (Mar 14) released the footage of 15-year-old Ryan Gainer fatally shot by the police while he was holding a garden tool outside his house in California. Gainer, an autistic African American boy,&nbsp;was killed last Saturday in Apple Valley.

He was shot by at least one of two San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies dispatched to his home after relatives called 911 seeking help for what civil rights attorney DeWitt Lacy, representing the family, described as a mental health crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-gun-deaths-reach-all-time-high-in-the-united-states-reveals-new-study-628132">Child gun deaths reach all-time high in the United States, reveals new study</a>

In the recording of the call released by the sheriff's office, screams&nbsp;could be heard in the background as the caller, a female, said that Gainer was hitting his sibling sister and carrying a piece of broken glass that he at one point had held to his neck.

The caller requested the 911 dispatcher send the police to take the teenager in.&nbsp;

Here's a look a the video moments before Gainer was killed (Warning: Disturbing content)

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APPLE VALLEY-CA 
 
15-year-old Ryan Gainer’s family called police because the allegedly autistic teen was terrorizing them. 
 
Gainer, armed with a bladed gardening tool, attacked the San Bernardino deputy, who fired in self-defense. 
 
Now BLM will use this case to reignite more riots <a href="https://t.co/YUMNxwgzUb">pic.twitter.com/YUMNxwgzUb</a>
— ᴛʜᴇ 𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄 ʀᴇᴘᴏʀᴛ ™ (@ClownsOfCSPAN) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClownsOfCSPAN/status/1768066824799936576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to Reuters, DeWitt Lacy said the tragedy unfolded when Gainer's parents did not allow him to play video games or listen to music until he finished household chores. This angered the 15-year-old.

Gainer's father calmed him down, but the teen grew agitated again when the police arrived and rushed toward them carrying a garden tool. Gainer raised the "bladed end of the tool and ran toward" one deputy who retreated with the boy chasing him in an attempt to "assault" the officer.

In a statement, the sheriff's department said, "The deputy retreated and Gainer chased the deputy in an attempt to assault him with the bladed end of the tool. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire. "

"Deputies quickly rendered medical aid to Gainer and continued until paramedics arrived. Gainer was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries," the statement added.

Lacy, while speaking to Reuters said,&nbsp;a medical professional who had examined Gainer told the family he had asphyxiated on vomit in his throat - an indication, the lawyer said, that prompt medical aid could have saved the boy's life.

The lawyer noted that the sheriff's department had not yet released full, unedited bodycam footage to the family, nor any audio from radio communications between the dispatcher and the deputies.

Lacy further told the news agency that the police knew about Gainer and his special needs, as officers were called to the house earlier in response to outbursts reported by the family.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. San Bernardino Country sheriff's office on Thursday (Mar 14) released the footage of 15-year-old Ryan Gainer fatally shot by the police while he was holding a garden tool outside his house in California.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. San Bernardino Country sheriff's office on Thursday (Mar 14) released the footage of 15-year-old Ryan Gainer fatally shot by the police while he was holding a garden tool outside his house in California. Gainer, an autistic African American boy, was killed last Saturday in Apple Valley. He was shot by at least one of two San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies dispatched to his home after relatives called 911 seeking help for what civil rights attorney DeWitt Lacy, representing the family, described as a mental health crisis. Also read | Child gun deaths reach all-time high in the United States, reveals new study In the recording of the call released by the sheriff's office, screams could be heard in the background as the caller, a female, said that Gainer was hitting his sibling sister and carrying a piece of broken glass that he at one point had held to his neck. The caller requested the 911 dispatcher send the police to take the teenager in. Here's a look a the video moments before Gainer was killed (Warning: Disturbing content) APPLE VALLEY-CA 15-year-old Ryan Gainer’s family called police because the allegedly autistic teen was terrorizing them. Gainer, armed with a bladed gardening tool, attacked the San Bernardino deputy, who fired in self-defense. Now BLM will use this case to reignite more riots pic.twitter.com/YUMNxwgzUb — ᴛʜᴇ 𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄 ʀᴇᴘᴏʀᴛ ™ (@ClownsOfCSPAN) March 14, 2024 × Speaking to Reuters, DeWitt Lacy said the tragedy unfolded when Gainer's parents did not allow him to play video games or listen to music until he finished household chores. This angered the 15-year-old. Gainer's father calmed him down, but the teen grew agitated again when the police arrived and rushed toward them carrying a garden tool. Gainer raised the "bladed end of the tool and ran toward" one deputy who retreated with the boy chasing him in an attempt to "assault" the officer. In a statement, the sheriff's department said, "The deputy retreated and Gainer chased the deputy in an attempt to assault him with the bladed end of the tool. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire. " "Deputies quickly rendered medical aid to Gainer and continued until paramedics arrived. Gainer was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries," the statement added. Lacy, while speaking to Reuters said, a medical professional who had examined Gainer told the family he had asphyxiated on vomit in his throat - an indication, the lawyer said, that prompt medical aid could have saved the boy's life. The lawyer noted that the sheriff's department had not yet released full, unedited bodycam footage to the family, nor any audio from radio communications between the dispatcher and the deputies. Lacy further told the news agency that the police knew about Gainer and his special needs, as officers were called to the house earlier in response to outbursts reported by the family. (With inputs from agencies)

Video shows moments before autistic Black teen in California was fatally shot by police

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu were appointed as two new election commissioners of India, a government notification said on Thursday (Mar 14).&nbsp;

Both Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu are former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers.

The government notification came hours after Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that two new election commissioners were chosen by a panel led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, even as&nbsp;a notification was awaited. Ranjan is the opposition member in the panel.

The development comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the country, scheduled for this summer.

Chowdhury told reporters that the Centre has the majority in the panel who appoints the election commissioners.

"Earlier, they had given me 212 names, but 10 minutes before the appointment they again gave me just six names," Chowdhury said.

"I know that the CJI (Chief Justice of India) isn't there, govt has made such a law that the CJI doesn't interfere and the Central govt can choose a favourable name. I am not saying that it's arbitrary but the procedure that is being followed has some lacunae," he added and pointed out that the CJI should have been a part of the panel.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After the meeting of selection committee to pick the Election Commissioner, the Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says, "They (govt) have the majority (in the committee who appoints election commissioner). Earlier, they had given me 212 names, but… <a href="https://t.co/90x3uLxGsx">pic.twitter.com/90x3uLxGsx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768187761054335484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Last week, Arun Goel stepped down from the election commissioner's post, and his resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu.

Goel had assumed charge of the post on November 21, 2022.

A statement from the Indian law ministry said, "In pursuance of clause (1) of Section 11 of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the president is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from 09th March 2024." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu were appointed as two new election commissioners of India, a government notification said on Thursday (Mar 14). Both Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu are former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers.

Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu were appointed as two new election commissioners of India, a government notification said on Thursday (Mar 14). Both Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu are former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers. The government notification came hours after Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that two new election commissioners were chosen by a panel led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, even as a notification was awaited. Ranjan is the opposition member in the panel. The development comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the country, scheduled for this summer. Chowdhury told reporters that the Centre has the majority in the panel who appoints the election commissioners. "Earlier, they had given me 212 names, but 10 minutes before the appointment they again gave me just six names," Chowdhury said. "I know that the CJI (Chief Justice of India) isn't there, govt has made such a law that the CJI doesn't interfere and the Central govt can choose a favourable name. I am not saying that it's arbitrary but the procedure that is being followed has some lacunae," he added and pointed out that the CJI should have been a part of the panel. #WATCH | After the meeting of selection committee to pick the Election Commissioner, the Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says, "They (govt) have the majority (in the committee who appoints election commissioner). Earlier, they had given me 212 names, but… pic.twitter.com/90x3uLxGsx — ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2024 × Last week, Arun Goel stepped down from the election commissioner's post, and his resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu. Goel had assumed charge of the post on November 21, 2022. A statement from the Indian law ministry said, "In pursuance of clause (1) of Section 11 of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the president is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from 09th March 2024." (With inputs from agencies)

India polls 2024: Gyanesh Kumar, Sukhbir Sandhu appointed new election commissioners

TikTok's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shou Zi Chew on Wednesday (Mar 13) warned of job losses after the US House of Representatives passed a bill that would give the video sharing app's owner ByteDance about six months to divest its American assets, or face a ban.

TikTok's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shou Zi Chew on Wednesday (Mar 13) warned of job losses after the US House of Representatives passed a bill that would give the video sharing app's owner ByteDance about six months to divest its American assets, or face a ban. He also urged users to oppose the ban to protect their "constitutional rights". "We believe we can overcome this together... Protect your constitutional rights. Make your voices heard," Chew said in a video message posted on TikTok and social media platform X. "Over the last few years, we have invested to keep your data safe and all platforms free from outside manipulation. We have committed that we will continue to do so. This legislation, if signed into law, will lead to a ban of TikTok in the United States," Chew said. Also read | US House passes bill that could ban TikTok Chew added that the bill would take billions of dollars out of the pockets of creators and small businesses. "It will put more than 300,000 American jobs at risk and it will take away your TikTok," he added and pointed out that that the short-video app mattered to the small business owners who relied on it to make ends meet. Bill passed 352-65 in bipartisan vote The House of Representatives bill on TikTok ban was passed 352-65 in a bipartisan vote. However, it faces a more uncertain path in the Senate where some favour a different approach to regulating foreign-owned apps posing security concerns, Reuters news agency reported. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the Senate will review the legislation. TikTok is used by about 170 million Americans, and the app's fate has become a major issue in the US where lawmakers have complained that their offices have been flooded with calls from the app users who oppose the legislation. Also read | Elon Musk joins Trump in denouncing proposed TikTok ban in US: 'It's about censorship, govt control' Wednesday's bill is the latest measure by Washington to respond to US national security concerns about China, from connected vehicles to advanced artificial intelligence chips to cranes at American ports. Some Democrats question bill Prominent Democrats in the House, including Kathleen Clark, Arizona Senate candidate Ruben Gallego, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez voted against the bill. "There are serious antitrust and privacy questions here, and any national security concerns should be laid out to the public prior to a vote," Ocasio-Cortez said. Senate Commerce Committee chair Maria Cantwell said that she wanted legislation that could hold up in court and was considering a separate bill. Before the vote, several TikTok users rallied outside the Capitol. Also watch | Gravitas: House passes bill threatening Tiktok ban in US × Twenty-three-year-old Mona Swain, who was outside the Capitol, said that the bill would put a lot of people out of work. Swain joined TikTok in 2019 and has become a full-time creator. Speaking to Reuters, Swain said that she was paying her mother’s mortgage and for her brother and sister’s college educations with her earnings from the app. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 300,000 American jobs at risk: TikTok CEO asks users to oppose bill aiming to ban app

The Indian Supreme Court set aside the conviction of two Tamil Nadu teachers in a sexual harassment case, according to media reports on Monday (Mar 11). A report by ETV Bharat said that one of the two teachers was the main accused in the case and was convicted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

The Indian Supreme Court set aside the conviction of two Tamil Nadu teachers in a sexual harassment case, according to media reports on Monday (Mar 11). A report by ETV Bharat said that one of the two teachers was the main accused in the case and was convicted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). The second teacher was charged with criminal intimidation. A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court comprising justices Dipankar Datta, K V Viswanathan, and Sandeep Mehta said that it agreed with the submissions of the senior counsel of Tamil Nadu that an act of sexual harassment of a girl student who is also a minor by "any teacher would figure quite high on the list of offences of grave nature since it has far-reaching consequences, which impact more than just the parties to the proceeding." The bench said that the two teachers were behind bars and should be immediately released from custody. What is the case about? In 2018, on the occasion of Valentine's Day (February 14), the main accused teacher entered a classroom, approached a minor female student and forcefully presented her with flowers and chocolates in the presence of other students. The report said that despite the student's refusal to accept the offerings, the teacher resorted to twisting her arm, forcing her to accept the items. Later on the same day, the victim was called by another teacher in the school. This teacher asked her why she was refusing to talk to the teacher who presented her with flowers and chocolates. He said that if the victim continued to not talk to the first teacher, he (the teacher who gave gifts) would die and she would be held responsible. The convictions Both the teachers were convicted in 2021. They moved the Supreme Court challenging the Madras High Court judgment passed in November 2022, which dismissed their plea seeking relief in the case. The ETV report said that in November 2021, a special court convicted the main accused teacher under section 12 of the POCSO Act and sentenced him to three years of rigorous imprisonment. The second teacher, meanwhile, was convicted under section 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment. The Supreme Court bench said on Monday that the right to live a life of dignity and personal liberty was not supposed to be jeopardised based on half-baked evidence. Justice Datta said that it was axiomatic that a teacher earns a reputation upon rendering service over the years and an accusation like this becomes an indelible mark marring his entire future life. The bench said it was inclined to deem that this case was unsuitable for securing a conviction under section 11 read with section 12 of the POCSO Act, as there were enough missing links to extend the benefit of the doubt to the main accused. As for the second teacher, the bench said, "As regards A-2, we do not consider that the prosecution was successful in proving that the conduct of A-2 was a case of criminal intimidation punishable under section 506 of IPC; his conviction, too, is also liable to be set aside." (With inputs from agencies)

How a bunch of flowers and chocolates landed a teacher in sexual harassment case in India's Tamil Nadu

A massive fire broke out in a house in the Shahdara area of the National Capital in the early hours of Thursday. According to the police, it was a residential building with four floors and parking. Three men, four women and two children were rescued at Hedgewar Hospital.

DCP Shahdara Surendra Chaudhary told ANI, "We received a phone call at Geeta Colony Police Station regarding a major fire in a house at approximately 5:30 am.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: DCP Shahdara Surendra Chaudhary says, "We received a phone call at Geeta Colony Police Station regarding a major fire in a house at approx 5:30am. Accordingly, local police, fire brigade, ambulance and PCR Vans rushed to the spot. 9 people were rescued and were… <a href="https://t.co/OMVHM8KoDf">https://t.co/OMVHM8KoDf</a> <a href="https://t.co/5G2WPfYAE0">pic.twitter.com/5G2WPfYAE0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768099853966381414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Accordingly, local police, fire brigade, ambulance and PCR vans rushed to the spot. Nine people were rescued and were sent to hospital."

A resident Shankar Lal said, "The cars caught fire in the circuit room in the underground parking. There were some children and adults there. They are feared dead. Only the hospital can clear the details."&nbsp;

A massive fire broke out in a house in the Shahdara area of the National Capital in the early hours of Thursday. According to the police, it was a residential building with four floors and parking.

A massive fire broke out in a house in the Shahdara area of the National Capital in the early hours of Thursday. According to the police, it was a residential building with four floors and parking. Three men, four women and two children were rescued at Hedgewar Hospital. DCP Shahdara Surendra Chaudhary told ANI, "We received a phone call at Geeta Colony Police Station regarding a major fire in a house at approximately 5:30 am. #WATCH | Delhi: DCP Shahdara Surendra Chaudhary says, "We received a phone call at Geeta Colony Police Station regarding a major fire in a house at approx 5:30am. Accordingly, local police, fire brigade, ambulance and PCR Vans rushed to the spot. 9 people were rescued and were… https://t.co/OMVHM8KoDf pic.twitter.com/5G2WPfYAE0 — ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2024 × Accordingly, local police, fire brigade, ambulance and PCR vans rushed to the spot. Nine people were rescued and were sent to hospital." A resident Shankar Lal said, "The cars caught fire in the circuit room in the underground parking. There were some children and adults there. They are feared dead. Only the hospital can clear the details."

Nine rescued after massive fire breaks out in residential building in New Delhi's Shahdara

There is relative calm in violence-hit Haiti after Ariel Henry announced he would resign as the prime minister. After the announcement a&nbsp;proposal was put up to install a new government in the&nbsp;Caribbean nation. However, the plan&nbsp;appeared to be crumbling on Wednesday (Mar 13) as some political parties rejected the proposal to create a presidential council that would manage the transition.&nbsp;

According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, former senator&nbsp;Jean Charles Moïse told reporters that he rejected the&nbsp;proposed council backed by the international community which would select an interim prime minister and a council of ministers.&nbsp;

Moïse insisted that a three-person presidential council he recently created with former rebel leader Guy Philippe and a Haitian judge should be implemented.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-weighs-using-guantanamo-bay-for-haitian-migrant-influx-699865">Biden administration weighs using Guantanamo Bay for Haitian migrant influx</a>

Philippe, who helped lead a successful revolt in 2004 against former president Jean-Bertrand Aristide, said on Tuesday that no Haitian should&nbsp;accept any proposal from the international community.

He accused the community of being&nbsp;complicit with Haiti’s elite and corrupt politicians and urged citizens to take to the streets. Some other high-profile politicians who rejected the proposal included&nbsp;Himmler Rébu, a former colonel of the country's army.

Rébu is also the president of the Grand Rally for the Evolution of Haiti, a party that is part of a coalition awarded a spot on the transitional council. In a statement,&nbsp;Rébu said that his party preferred that a judge from the Supreme Court assume the reins of power.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Amid escalating violence in Haiti, PM resigns

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The above developments come as Henry remains locked out of Haiti as gangs, who had been calling to overthrow his government, closed the country's airports. Henry is currently in&nbsp;Puerto Rico.

The latest gang attacks started on February 29 when Henry was in Kenya to push for a United Nations (UN)-backed deployment of a Kenyan police force. The deployment has been temporarily suspended.

Between February 27 and March 8, over 130 people were killed in Haiti, officials told the news agency, adding that&nbsp;40 gang members were killed between February 29&nbsp;and March 10.

(With inputs from agencies)

There is relative calm in violence-hit Haiti after Ariel Henry announced he would resign as the prime minister. After the announcement a proposal was put up to install a new government in the Caribbean nation.

There is relative calm in violence-hit Haiti after Ariel Henry announced he would resign as the prime minister. After the announcement a proposal was put up to install a new government in the Caribbean nation. However, the plan appeared to be crumbling on Wednesday (Mar 13) as some political parties rejected the proposal to create a presidential council that would manage the transition. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, former senator Jean Charles Moïse told reporters that he rejected the proposed council backed by the international community which would select an interim prime minister and a council of ministers. Moïse insisted that a three-person presidential council he recently created with former rebel leader Guy Philippe and a Haitian judge should be implemented. Also read | Biden administration weighs using Guantanamo Bay for Haitian migrant influx Philippe, who helped lead a successful revolt in 2004 against former president Jean-Bertrand Aristide, said on Tuesday that no Haitian should accept any proposal from the international community. He accused the community of being complicit with Haiti’s elite and corrupt politicians and urged citizens to take to the streets. Some other high-profile politicians who rejected the proposal included Himmler Rébu, a former colonel of the country's army. Rébu is also the president of the Grand Rally for the Evolution of Haiti, a party that is part of a coalition awarded a spot on the transitional council. In a statement, Rébu said that his party preferred that a judge from the Supreme Court assume the reins of power. Also watch | Amid escalating violence in Haiti, PM resigns × The above developments come as Henry remains locked out of Haiti as gangs, who had been calling to overthrow his government, closed the country's airports. Henry is currently in Puerto Rico. The latest gang attacks started on February 29 when Henry was in Kenya to push for a United Nations (UN)-backed deployment of a Kenyan police force. The deployment has been temporarily suspended. Between February 27 and March 8, over 130 people were killed in Haiti, officials told the news agency, adding that 40 gang members were killed between February 29 and March 10. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti crisis: Proposal to install new govt rejected by some political parties

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