Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape announced a 14-day state of emergency on Thursday (Jan 11) after 16 people were killed in riots. "Today we call for a state of emergency for 14 days in our nation's capital," Prime Minister Marape said, adding that over 1,000 troops were on standby to contain any situation that might arise in future.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape announced a 14-day state of emergency on Thursday (Jan 11) after 16 people were killed in riots. "Today we call for a state of emergency for 14 days in our nation's capital," Prime Minister Marape said, adding that over 1,000 troops were on standby to contain any situation that might arise in future. Violence broke out in the capital city of Port Moresby on Wednesday after a group of soldiers, police officers and prison guards launched protests over unexplained deductions to their pay, the news agency AFP reported. Within hours, the violence spread to Lae, a city located about 300 kilometres to the north of Port Moresby. 16 dead, several injured in violence According to police commissioner David Manning, at least 15 people were killed in the unrest in Port Moresby and Lae. Citing official data, AFP reported that Port Moresby's largest hospital treated 30 people with gunshot wounds, and six other people were treated for "bush knife" lacerations. Also read: Papua New Guinea unrest: Govt asks military to restore order amid arson, looting in capital Videos showed looters in the capital city dashing into stores stuffing stolen goods into cardboard boxes, shopping trolleys and plastic buckets. City Pharmacy Limited, one of Papua New Guinea's largest retail chains, said prescription medicines had been stolen from its ransacked stores. Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Port Moresby said that shots were fired near its compound as police tried to disperse groups of looters. China's foreign ministry complained to the Marape government after reports emerged that some of the rioters had targeted Chinese-owned businesses. 'Enough is enough' On Thursday, Prime Minister Marape conceded that security forces had a "genuine cause of concern", and his government swiftly promised to fix what it described as a payroll "glitch." However, Marape warned that "lawlessness and recklessness" would not be tolerated. "This is not the first time members of our disciplinary forces have gone rogue," the prime minister told reporters, referencing a 2018 pay dispute that ended with security staff smashing up parliament. "I want to indicate to our country enough is enough. Enough is enough," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Papua New Guinea declares 14-day state of emergency after 16 killed in riots

Justice Ijazul Ahsan of the Pakistan Supreme Court, who was slated to be the country's next chief justice, resigned on Thursday (Jan 11). According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, Justice Ahsan wrote in his resignation letter to President Arif Alvi that he no longer wished to continue.

Justice Ijazul Ahsan of the Pakistan Supreme Court, who was slated to be the country's next chief justice, resigned on Thursday (Jan 11). According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, Justice Ahsan wrote in his resignation letter to President Arif Alvi that he no longer wished to continue. He was the second senior-most judge of the apex court. His resignation came a day after another top court judge Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi stepped down, PTI reported. Ahsan had earlier served as a judge of the Lahore High Court, and later the Chief Justice of the high court. Ahsan part of bench that disqualified Nawaz Sharif Ahsan was a part of the five-member Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) but refused to join other members of the council on November 22 last year in the issuance of a fresh show-cause notice to judge Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi. Naqvi was facing allegations of misconduct and was being probed by the council. Also Watch | Justice Ahsan quits after Justice Mazahar Ali Naqvi's resignation × Ahsan was also part of the five-member bench that disqualified former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in the Panamagate case in 2017. He was appointed to monitor and supervise the implementation of the case verdict which resulted in the conviction of Sharif in two corruption cases, and his eventual exile. 'A sad day for Supreme Court' Legal experts in Pakistan reacted to Ahsan's resignation from the Supreme Court. Speaking to Dawn, lawyer Rida Hosain said that Ahsan's decision to step down was a sad day for the apex court. “The decision was historic, brave, and a victory for fundamental rights,” Hosain said adding Ahsan was part of the bench that ordered provincial polls to be held on time. He was also part of the bench that declared military trials of civilians as “unconstitutional.” Also read: Pakistan elections: Want to be voice of minorities, says Dr Saveera Parkash Lawyer Abdul Moiz Jaferii told the publication that Naqvi's resignation was expected but Ahsan's was not. “The simplest explanation is that Justice Ahsan couldn’t handle the heat. There was something he was afraid would come up, which he had until now been able to manage because he had someone more senior than himself to hide behind,” Jaferii said, adding it was sad that the outgoing judge was hounded by the same set of forces he helped to hunt all these years. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan SC judge, tipped to be next chief justice, resigns. Was part of bench that disqualified Nawaz Sharif

Facts about strange exoplanets discovered in the universe

HD 189773b: An Exoplanet that Rains Glass

To the human eye, HD 189773b looks bright blue, quite similar to Earth. However, this exoplanet has deadly weather. According to NASA, winds on HD 189773b blow up to 2 kilometres (km) per second. Rain on this exoplanet will cause death by a thousand cuts. HD 189773b rains glass—sideways—in its howling winds. The exoplanet is located 64 light years away from Earth.

55 Cancri e: An Exoplanet Made with Diamonds

55 Cancri e is one of the weirdest exoplanets ever discovered by scientists. It is made up of diamonds and is located 41 lightyears away from Earth. 55 Cancri e orbits a G-type star similar to our Sun.

KELT-9b, a gas giant 2.8 times more massive than Jupiter, is hotter than many stars. It has a dayside temperature of more than 4,315 degrees Celsius. A year on this exoplanet lasts less than a day and a half.

In spite of a court order, the US administration has refused to produce material to prove allegations against Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been detained for an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.

In spite of a court order, the US administration has refused to produce material to prove allegations against Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who has been detained for an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. Washington said it would provide the information only upon his appearance in a New York court and arraignment in the case, Indian news agency PTI reported. Earlier, a court had asked the Biden administration to respond to a motion filed by lawyers of Gupta seeking material relating to charges against him. US District Judge Victor Marrero said in a court order that on January 4, defence counsel filed a motion to compel production of discovery, and directing the government to begin providing defence counsel with such discovery material. "The Court hereby directs the government to file a reply to the Motion to Compel within three days of the date of this order," the judge had said. The charges against Nikhil Gupta Federal prosecutors in the US had charged that Gupta, 52, was working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Pannun. According to US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Matthew G. Olsen, Gupta had been charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, both of which carry a 10-year-prison sentence. Prosecutors said that Czech authorities arrested and detained Gupta on June 30, 2023, under the bilateral extradition treaty between the United States and the Czech Republic. India has already constituted a probe committee to investigate allegations, PTI reported. Pannun has been charged in India for advocating separatism and holding referendums overseas to carve out an independent Sikh state- Khalistan. In November last year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a case against him under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967 and sections of the Indian Penal Code. The case was filed after the Khalistani terrorist threatened flag carrier Air India's passengers in a video, saying that their lives were in danger. New Delhi had listed Pannun as an "individual terrorist" in 2020 for what it said is challenging India's security by financing violence and issuing appeals to "Punjab-based gangsters and youth" to fight for Khalistan. An arrest warrant has also been issued against him. (With inputs from agencies)

Pannun murder plot: US govt refuses to produce proof against Indian national despite court ruling

United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden abruptly walked out of his contempt hearing at Capitol Hill on Wednesday (Jan 10), as soon as Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stood up to question him.

United States President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden abruptly walked out of his contempt hearing at Capitol Hill on Wednesday (Jan 10), as soon as Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stood up to question him. At a US House of Representatives hearing, the Republican lawmakers were pushing for a vote to hold Hunter in contempt of Congress for not testifying in their impeachment inquiry targeting his father. House Republicans have alleged that Joe Biden and his family improperly profited from policy actions in which Biden participated when he was vice president in 2009-2017. Hunter left as soon as it was MTG’s turn to speak, took all the cameras with him, and made a statement to the press in the hallway. I know she was HEATED 💀 pic.twitter.com/HpfwT62jau — chris evans (@notcapnamerica) January 10, 2024 × The House Oversight and Judiciary Committees advanced resolutions recommending that Hunter be held in criminal contempt of Congress, sending the matter to full House. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Hunter entered the hearing without speaking to the media, and sat quietly in the gallery with his lawyer, causing pandemonium, with members of the House Oversight Committee arguing with each other and scolding him for the surprise. He left before the vote on the resolution. As Hunter was exiting, a man yelled out “What kind of crack do you normally smoke, Mr Biden?” President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden made an unexpected appearance at a US House committee hearing called by Republican lawmakers pushing for a vote to hold him in contempt of Congress https://t.co/EYJPYQFPrI pic.twitter.com/PnfHEEat8s — Reuters (@Reuters) January 10, 2024 × "We plan to question Hunter Biden about this record of evidence during our deposition, but he blatantly defied two lawful subpoenas," Committee chairperson James Comer said. "Hunter Biden's willful refusal to comply with the committee subpoenas is a criminal act. It constitutes contempt of Congress and warrants referral to the appropriate United States Attorney's Office for prosecution, as prescribed by the law. We will not provide Hunter Biden with special treatment because of his last name." 'You're the epitome of white privilege' US Representative Nancy Mace (a Republican) slammed Hunter's surprise appearance at the hearing by saying that he was the "epitome of white privilege." "You are the epitome of white privilege -- coming into the Oversight Committee, spitting in our face, ignoring a congressional subpoena to be deposed. What are you afraid of? You have no balls to come up here!" Mace added. Representative Jared Moskowitz (also a Republican) said, "The witness accepted the chairman's invitation. It just so happens the witness is here. If the committee wants to hear from the witness and the chairman gave the witness that option, then the only folks that are afraid to hear from the witness with the American people watching, are my friends on the other side of the aisle. "I don't know if there's a proper motion, Mr. Chairman, but I'll make a motion. Let's vote. Let's take a vote. Who wants to hear from Hunter right now, today?" Hunter's lawyer Abbe Lowell slammed Republican chairs for commandeering an unprecedented resolution to hold someone in contempt who has offered to publicly answer all their proper questions. "Last year Chairman Comer made an explicit offer that people like Hunter and others like him have the option to attend the deposition or a public hearing - whichever they chose," Lowell said. "Hunter chose a hearing where Republicans could not distort, manipulate, or misuse that testimony honour and then ignoring that invitation and proving once again that they cared little about the truth and wanted only to, quote, 'move the needle of political support', which was a quote Chairman Comer confessed was his true purpose," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Hunter Biden abruptly walks out of contempt hearing as Marjorie Taylor Greene starts speaking

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs.

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency for 60 days after one of the country's most notorious narco bosses escaped from prison. On Wednesday (Jan 10), President Daniel Noboa said that his country was at war with drug gangs. Noboa, who came to power in January, named 22 gangs as terrorist organisations which made them official military targets. Following the government announcements, gangs started hitting back with a fresh wave of violence across the country. The crisis presents a fresh challenge for Noboa, who pledged during last year's election campaign that he would curb violence in the Central American country. A fresh wave of violence Violence is not new in Ecuador. Since the Covid pandemic in 2020, the security situation in the country worsened which also battered the economy. Citing government data, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that the number of violent deaths rose to 8,008 in 2023, nearly doubling the figure reported in 2022. The government has blamed the situation on the growing reach of cocaine-trafficking gangs, who have destabilised swathes of South America. Ecuador's prison system is also a major contributor to the de-stability. Inside jails, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. In recent times, prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in numerous deaths. Govt's crackdown and chaos that unfolded Last Sunday, the police said that Adolfo Macias, a notorious narco boss and leader of the Los Choneros, disappeared from the prison where he was serving a 34-year sentence. This caused President Noboa to declare a state of emergency in Ecuador for sixty days, which included a nationwide curfew from 11 pm to 5 am. Exceptions were given to workers and individuals travelling to and from airports with a scheduled flight during curfew hours. As the week began on Monday, there were incidents of violence in at least six prisons. Reuters reported that as of Wednesday, more than 100 guards and other staff were still being held hostage by prisoners. In central Ecuador's Riobamba, around 39 inmates escaped from a prison but some of them were re-captured. The report said that seven police officers had also been kidnapped of which three were freed. Also read: 'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover Unrest has spread in the streets. On Tuesday, videos circulated on social media showing armed men setting vehicles on fire in a street in Esmeraldas. On the same day, two police officers were killed in Guayas province where Guayaquil is located. The most dramatic display of violence came when armed men wearing balaclavas stormed a studio of public broadcaster TC carrying weapons and grenades on Tuesday. The gunmen held journalists hostage. Over a dozen people in the group were arrested. Explosions were also reported in several cities on Tuesday, but there were no reports of injuries. The police said on Wednesday that 70 people had been arrested since Monday in response to incidents like the TV station take-over. Schools were shut across the country (on Wednesday), with students tending to online classes and many businesses choosing to close for the day. Since the state of emergency began, 329 people, mostly members of gangs like Los Choneros, Los Lobos and Los Tiguerones, were arrested, armed forces commander Jaime Vela told reporters on Wednesday evening. "There is no hostage who has been murdered," Vela said in response to videos shared on social media which showed prison staff being subjected to extreme violence, including being shot and hanged. 'An armed conflict' A day after declaring a state of emergency, President Noboa said in an updated decree on Tuesday that he recognised an "internal armed conflict" in Ecuador and identified several criminal gangs as terrorist groups, including Los Choneros. The decree ordered the armed forces to neutralise the groups. "It is a non-international armed conflict. We are fighting for national peace. We are also fighting against terrorist groups, which today number more than 20,000 people," Noboa told a local radio station on Wednesday. Also watch | Ecuador: Violent chaos unfolds as soldiers patrol streets, nationwide curfew imposed × "We will not give in to the stupid things they are used to doing. They, I mean the terrorists who are in these prisons. It is difficult, it is hard and I also sympathise with the families of the kidnapped officials. We are in a state of war, we are in a state of war, and we cannot give in to these terrorist groups," he added. After coming to power, the president has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" for security. This plan includes a new intelligence unit, tactical weapons for security forces, new high-security prisons, and reinforced security at ports and airports - key points for drug shipments - which would cost some $800 million. In December last year, Noboa said that the US would provide new weapons worth $200 million for the army, and the rest of the funds would come from the national budget. Later this year, he plans to hold a security-focused plebiscite. This would include asking citizens if the government should undo a ban on the extradition of Ecuadoreans wanted abroad and if the seizure of assets from suspected criminals should be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How Ecuador became a nation held hostage by its own criminal gangs

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight,

Read our top 5 picks of the day:

Seen her music video yet? This is why everyone thinks Katy Perry is pregnant!

In a teaser for the new song that made way to her Instagram page, Katy Perry can be seen wearing neck plunging gown in which she can be seen cradling her baby bump, triggering rumours that the pop star is expecting a child with her fiancee Orlando Bloom.&nbsp;

In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456</a>

'The Batman': Check out the first look of Robert Pattinson as caped crusader with his Batmobile

Director Matt Reeves gave Batman fans a huge surprise Wednesday as he revealed the first look of Robert Pattinson as the caped crusader alongside his Batmobile.

In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419</a>

BTS drops surprise music video for 'Map of the soul: 7' single ‘Black Swan’

The K-pop superstars are once again back with another music video from their newly released album 'Map of the soul: 7'

In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402</a>

'Hocus Pocus' sequel to return as Disney+ film with director Adam Shankman

Disney is moving fast with its content. They have now made rumours of Hocus Pocus returning, a reality.&nbsp;The witches will finally return to Salem as Disney has now hired director Adam Shankman to helm ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ as a Disney+ original film.&nbsp;

In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388</a>

PornHub to host first non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers

One of the biggest porn websites of the world, PornHub is in news but for something other than what they usually have to offer. The adult website will be hosting ‘Shakedown’, a non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers.&nbsp;

In detail:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406">https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406</a>

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight, Read our top 5 picks of the day: Seen her music video yet?

Among the top 5 Hollywood news today, 'The Batman', Katy Perry and PornHub hogged the maximum limelight, Read our top 5 picks of the day: Seen her music video yet? This is why everyone thinks Katy Perry is pregnant! In a teaser for the new song that made way to her Instagram page, Katy Perry can be seen wearing neck plunging gown in which she can be seen cradling her baby bump, triggering rumours that the pop star is expecting a child with her fiancee Orlando Bloom. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-seen-her-music-video-yet-this-is-why-everyone-thinks-katy-perry-is-pregnant-284456 'The Batman': Check out the first look of Robert Pattinson as caped crusader with his Batmobile Director Matt Reeves gave Batman fans a huge surprise Wednesday as he revealed the first look of Robert Pattinson as the caped crusader alongside his Batmobile. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-the-batman-check-out-the-first-look-of-robert-pattinson-as-caped-crusader-with-his-batmobile-284419 BTS drops surprise music video for 'Map of the soul: 7' single ‘Black Swan’ The K-pop superstars are once again back with another music video from their newly released album 'Map of the soul: 7' In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-drops-surprise-music-video-for-map-of-the-soul-7-single-black-swan-284402 'Hocus Pocus' sequel to return as Disney+ film with director Adam Shankman Disney is moving fast with its content. They have now made rumours of Hocus Pocus returning, a reality. The witches will finally return to Salem as Disney has now hired director Adam Shankman to helm ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ as a Disney+ original film. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hocus-pocus-sequel-to-return-as-disney-film-with-director-adam-shankman-284388 PornHub to host first non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers One of the biggest porn websites of the world, PornHub is in news but for something other than what they usually have to offer. The adult website will be hosting ‘Shakedown’, a non-porn documentary about black lesbian strippers. In detail: https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pornhub-to-host-first-non-porn-documentary-about-black-lesbian-strippers-284406

UK to send warships, aircraft carrier to Indian Ocean for joint training with Indian forces

Bird flu has been detected in fur and elephant seal populations for the first time on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, a team of scientists from the United Kingdom (UK) confirmed on Thursday.

Bird flu has been detected in fur and elephant seal populations for the first time on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, a team of scientists from the United Kingdom (UK) confirmed on Thursday. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, scientists had first suspected the presence of avian influenza in October last year, after the death of several brown skua seabirds on Bird Island which is part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. In December, a large number of elephant seals were found dead. Last month, scientists with Britain's Animal and Plant Health and Agency (APHA) and the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) spent three weeks in the affected islands, collecting samples from dead mammals and birds. Also read: EU agency urges pet owners to keep cats and dogs indoors amid rising cases of avian influenza The scientists said that the samples tested positive for HPAI H5N1 in elephant seals, fur seals, brown skuas, kelp gulls, and Antarctic terns. “Given Antarctica is such a unique and special biodiversity hotspot it is sad and concerning to see the disease spread to mammals in the region," said APHA scientific services director Ian Brown. Impact of H5N1 on Antarctic wildlife could be devastating Reuters reported that as per scientists, the current impact of H5N1 on Anon Antarctic wildlife could be devastating. A report by the OFFLU (a joint OIE-FAO global network of expertise on animal influenzas) said that the virus had the potential to infect 48 species of birds and 26 species of marine mammals. OFFLU said that thousands of seals and hundreds of thousands of birds congregate in dense colonies in Antarctica which could allow the virus to easily jump between individuals. Alastair Ward, an ecologist at the University of Leeds, said seals that are known to scavenge, may become infected when they consume infected bird carcasses. Amid global concern about the virus' spread to imperilled wildlife populations, Alaskan officials confirmed last week the first known case of a polar bear dying of H5N1. Speaking to Reuters, Andrew Derocher, a polar bear biologist at the University of Alberta, said, "If a bird is weakened by avian influenza, or succumbs to it, polar bears aren't fussy about what eat." Derocher said that if a bird is dead and it is edible, polar bears will probably eat it. "There is a high likelihood of an interaction between climate change, avian influenza, bird mortality and polar bears," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Bird flu detected in seals in southern Atlantic for the first time

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in London on Wednesday.

The defence minister is currently on an official visit to Great Britain. The visit marks the first visit by a sitting Indian Defence Minister to the UK in more than 20 years.

Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Singh and his British counterpart Grant Shapps attended the India-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable at Trinity House in London.

"Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh and his British counterpart Mr. @grantshapps attended the India-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable at Trinity House in London," read a post on the defence minister's official handle on 'X'.

The UK announced its plans to send its Littoral Response Group to the Indian Ocean Region later this year, with a proposal for the Carrier Strike Group to visit the Indian waters in 2025. Both will operate and train with Indian forces.

The announcement was made by UK Defence Secretary Shapps.

The UK and India also vowed to continue strengthening ties during defence minister's visit to the country.

In a move that signals the growing importance of the strategic relationship between the UK and India, Defence Secretary Shapps welcomed Singh to the UK and the two leaders agreed on unprecedented levels of UK-India defence cooperation, according to an official release.

The two nations also discussed future cooperation in defence from joint exercises to knowledge sharing and instructor exchanges. These steps build on the comprehensive strategic partnership envisaged in the 2030 India-UK roadmap, announced in 2021, it added.

In the coming years, the UK and India will also embark on more complex exercises between their respective militaries, building up to a landmark joint exercise to be conducted before the end of 2030, supporting shared goals of protecting critical trade routes and upholding the international rules-based system, as per the release.

Defence Secretary Shapps said, "There is absolutely no question that the world is becoming increasingly contested, so it's vital that we continue to build on our strategic relationships with key partners like India. Together we share the same security challenges and are steadfast on our commitment to maintaining a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

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Had a very warm meeting with the UK Prime Minister, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rishisunak</a> in London. I had the opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues with him. 
 
We discussed issues pertaining to defence, economic cooperation and how 🇮🇳 and 🇬🇧 could work together for strengthening a peaceful… <a href="https://t.co/1yk2RWJpbn">pic.twitter.com/1yk2RWJpbn</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1745276155408597343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He said it is clear that "this relationship is going from strength-to-strength, but we must continue to work hand-in-hand to uphold global security in light of threats and challenges that seek to destabilise and damage us".

"Collaboration with industry is also key in the strategic defence partnership between the UK and India, with the two nations working together on electric propulsion systems that will power our future fleets and cooperating on the development of complex weapons," Shapps was quoted as saying further in the release.

The UK and India also confirmed several new joint initiatives.

These include a Letter of Arrangement that will enable further emphasis to be placed on research and development between the two nations, focused on next-generation capabilities.

They also include solidifying an agreement on logistics exchange, allowing for the provision of logistic support, supplies and services between the United Kingdom and Indian Armed Forces, for joint training, joint exercises, authorised port visits and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.

Eearlier, on Tuesday, Defence Minister Singh on Tuesday said both India and the UK desire strong strategic relations and are working towards that.

"Both India and the UK want strong strategic relations. We want to strengthen the comprehensive strategic relations," Singh, who is currently on an official visit to the UK, said.

Also, on Tuesday, the Raksha Mantri paid a visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple (Neasden Temple) in London. The Hindu temple is Europe's first authentic and traditionally built Hindu shrine.

Singh offered Abishek Puja at the temple, according to sources.

Singh's visit to the Neasden Temple also underlined the significance of cultural connections in bilateral relations between the two countries.

&nbsp;

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in London on Wednesday. The defence minister is currently on an official visit to Great Britain.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in London on Wednesday. The defence minister is currently on an official visit to Great Britain. The visit marks the first visit by a sitting Indian Defence Minister to the UK in more than 20 years. Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Singh and his British counterpart Grant Shapps attended the India-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable at Trinity House in London. "Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh and his British counterpart Mr. @grantshapps attended the India-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable at Trinity House in London," read a post on the defence minister's official handle on 'X'. The UK announced its plans to send its Littoral Response Group to the Indian Ocean Region later this year, with a proposal for the Carrier Strike Group to visit the Indian waters in 2025. Both will operate and train with Indian forces. The announcement was made by UK Defence Secretary Shapps. The UK and India also vowed to continue strengthening ties during defence minister's visit to the country. In a move that signals the growing importance of the strategic relationship between the UK and India, Defence Secretary Shapps welcomed Singh to the UK and the two leaders agreed on unprecedented levels of UK-India defence cooperation, according to an official release. The two nations also discussed future cooperation in defence from joint exercises to knowledge sharing and instructor exchanges. These steps build on the comprehensive strategic partnership envisaged in the 2030 India-UK roadmap, announced in 2021, it added. In the coming years, the UK and India will also embark on more complex exercises between their respective militaries, building up to a landmark joint exercise to be conducted before the end of 2030, supporting shared goals of protecting critical trade routes and upholding the international rules-based system, as per the release. Defence Secretary Shapps said, "There is absolutely no question that the world is becoming increasingly contested, so it's vital that we continue to build on our strategic relationships with key partners like India. Together we share the same security challenges and are steadfast on our commitment to maintaining a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific." Had a very warm meeting with the UK Prime Minister, Shri @rishisunak in London. I had the opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues with him. We discussed issues pertaining to defence, economic cooperation and how 🇮🇳 and 🇬🇧 could work together for strengthening a peaceful… pic.twitter.com/1yk2RWJpbn — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) January 11, 2024 × He said it is clear that "this relationship is going from strength-to-strength, but we must continue to work hand-in-hand to uphold global security in light of threats and challenges that seek to destabilise and damage us". "Collaboration with industry is also key in the strategic defence partnership between the UK and India, with the two nations working together on electric propulsion systems that will power our future fleets and cooperating on the development of complex weapons," Shapps was quoted as saying further in the release. The UK and India also confirmed several new joint initiatives. These include a Letter of Arrangement that will enable further emphasis to be placed on research and development between the two nations, focused on next-generation capabilities. They also include solidifying an agreement on logistics exchange, allowing for the provision of logistic support, supplies and services between the United Kingdom and Indian Armed Forces, for joint training, joint exercises, authorised port visits and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. Eearlier, on Tuesday, Defence Minister Singh on Tuesday said both India and the UK desire strong strategic relations and are working towards that. "Both India and the UK want strong strategic relations. We want to strengthen the comprehensive strategic relations," Singh, who is currently on an official visit to the UK, said. Also, on Tuesday, the Raksha Mantri paid a visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple (Neasden Temple) in London. The Hindu temple is Europe's first authentic and traditionally built Hindu shrine. Singh offered Abishek Puja at the temple, according to sources. Singh's visit to the Neasden Temple also underlined the significance of cultural connections in bilateral relations between the two countries.

Indian defence minister meets UK PM in London

Dubbed “Buddha Boy” in early 2005, Ram Bahadur Bomjan, a controversial spiritual leader has been arrested by the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal from the outskirts of the capital Kathmandu.

Worshipped and regarded as a reincarnation of Gautam Buddha, Bomjan had a significant number of disciples but has been on the run since early 2020 as complaint was filed against him for sexual exploitation of female disciples.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nepals-former-skipper-sandeep-lamichhane-sentenced-to-eight-years-for-rape-678683">Nepal’s former skipper Sandeep Lamichhane sentenced to eight years for rape</a>

“We have arrested him from Budhanilkantha (outskirts of Kathmandu) by a team of CIB,” confirmed Nabaraj Adhikari, spokesperson at the Nepali investigation agency to ANI.

Earlier in July 2020, the District Court in Sarlahi had registered a case of sexual exploitation filed by a minor female disciple (aged 15 at the time). As per the chargesheet, the incident took place at the ashram in Pattharkot, Sarlahi.

The victim accused Bomjan of rape at night on August 4, 2016. The minor also stated that she kept it hidden after receiving threats from Bomjan to not relay the incident to others otherwise would face the consequences.

Soon after the filing of the complaint, the Police discovered that four of his disciples also had gone missing from his Ashram. In June 2020, a joint team from CIB, Bagmati Provincial Police and District Police Offices in Kavre, Sindhupalchowk and Sarlahi conducted a raid at his ashram in Pairey, Sindhuli but could not locate him.

Bomjan came to the attention of the public in 2005 after he claimed of meditating for months without food, water or sleep. Soon after his meditation was over he set up ashrams in Bara, Sarlahi, Sindhupalchowk and Sindhuli Districts.

Apart from the sexual exploitation charges, the dubbed “Buddha Boy” also has been charged with the disappearance of five people- his disciples in different districts. A local news portal, Setopati.com had reported the incident in a series that unearthed the incidents that took place inside the ashrams of the claimed spiritual leader.

Dubbed “Buddha Boy” in early 2005, Ram Bahadur Bomjan, a controversial spiritual leader has been arrested by the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal from the outskirts of the capital Kathmandu.

Dubbed “Buddha Boy” in early 2005, Ram Bahadur Bomjan, a controversial spiritual leader has been arrested by the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal from the outskirts of the capital Kathmandu. Worshipped and regarded as a reincarnation of Gautam Buddha, Bomjan had a significant number of disciples but has been on the run since early 2020 as complaint was filed against him for sexual exploitation of female disciples. Also read: Nepal’s former skipper Sandeep Lamichhane sentenced to eight years for rape “We have arrested him from Budhanilkantha (outskirts of Kathmandu) by a team of CIB,” confirmed Nabaraj Adhikari, spokesperson at the Nepali investigation agency to ANI. Earlier in July 2020, the District Court in Sarlahi had registered a case of sexual exploitation filed by a minor female disciple (aged 15 at the time). As per the chargesheet, the incident took place at the ashram in Pattharkot, Sarlahi. The victim accused Bomjan of rape at night on August 4, 2016. The minor also stated that she kept it hidden after receiving threats from Bomjan to not relay the incident to others otherwise would face the consequences. Soon after the filing of the complaint, the Police discovered that four of his disciples also had gone missing from his Ashram. In June 2020, a joint team from CIB, Bagmati Provincial Police and District Police Offices in Kavre, Sindhupalchowk and Sarlahi conducted a raid at his ashram in Pairey, Sindhuli but could not locate him. Bomjan came to the attention of the public in 2005 after he claimed of meditating for months without food, water or sleep. Soon after his meditation was over he set up ashrams in Bara, Sarlahi, Sindhupalchowk and Sindhuli Districts. Apart from the sexual exploitation charges, the dubbed “Buddha Boy” also has been charged with the disappearance of five people- his disciples in different districts. A local news portal, Setopati.com had reported the incident in a series that unearthed the incidents that took place inside the ashrams of the claimed spiritual leader.

Nepal: Spiritual leader 'Buddha Boy' arrested for rape, kidnapping

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-ecuador-on-edge-as-armed-men-storm-tv-station-state-of-emergency-declared-678390">takeover of a Guayaquil TV station</a>, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal."

On Tuesday, gunmen stormed a studio at public broadcaster TC, carrying a range of weapons as well as grenades amid a state of emergency imposed in the country following the disappearance of one of the most powerful narco bosses.&nbsp;

The disappearance of Jose Adolfo Macias prompted the government to launch a military crackdown (on criminal gangs) which in turn led to gangs hitting back. The country is now under an emergency and the government has declared war on the gangs.

Speaking to the news agency Reuters, journalist Jose Luis Calderon of TC said that he was in the studio as his colleagues led a broadcast on Tuesday afternoon when he heard yelling, shots and people running outside in the hallway.

"Our immediate reaction was to seek refuge in the bathroom," Calderon, 47, said, adding he hid with some colleagues and they called family members and police, but were overheard by the gunmen.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-declares-state-of-emergency-after-its-most-wanted-criminal-disappears-from-jail-678015">Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail</a>

"They forced us, under threats, to come out. They took us (into the studio) as hostages with other colleagues," he further said and pointed out that the attackers menaced the staff with guns.&nbsp;

Upon interrupting the broadcast, the gunmen said that they were part of La Firma, a gang associated with the larger crime group Los Choneros.

Calderon further told Reuters on Wednesday that the gunmen held a rifle to his head and tucked dynamite into his jacket, demanding he appear on the live feed.

"That's when I said the police shouldn't come in or they would kill us one by one, that was what they obliged me to say," the journalist said, adding the experience was surreal.&nbsp;

The gunmen opened fire "and they shot a door and one of the bullets ricocheted and injured the leg of a cameraman," Calderon said. Another employee suffered a broken arm, according to TC.&nbsp;

The gunmen eventually surrendered and 13 people were arrested at the site.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the takeover of a Guayaquil TV station, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal.

A journalist in Ecuador, who was held hostage on live TV by gangster gunmen during the takeover of a Guayaquil TV station, said on Wednesday (Jan 10) that the experience was "surreal." On Tuesday, gunmen stormed a studio at public broadcaster TC, carrying a range of weapons as well as grenades amid a state of emergency imposed in the country following the disappearance of one of the most powerful narco bosses. The disappearance of Jose Adolfo Macias prompted the government to launch a military crackdown (on criminal gangs) which in turn led to gangs hitting back. The country is now under an emergency and the government has declared war on the gangs. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, journalist Jose Luis Calderon of TC said that he was in the studio as his colleagues led a broadcast on Tuesday afternoon when he heard yelling, shots and people running outside in the hallway. "Our immediate reaction was to seek refuge in the bathroom," Calderon, 47, said, adding he hid with some colleagues and they called family members and police, but were overheard by the gunmen. Also read: Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail "They forced us, under threats, to come out. They took us (into the studio) as hostages with other colleagues," he further said and pointed out that the attackers menaced the staff with guns. Upon interrupting the broadcast, the gunmen said that they were part of La Firma, a gang associated with the larger crime group Los Choneros. Calderon further told Reuters on Wednesday that the gunmen held a rifle to his head and tucked dynamite into his jacket, demanding he appear on the live feed. "That's when I said the police shouldn't come in or they would kill us one by one, that was what they obliged me to say," the journalist said, adding the experience was surreal. The gunmen opened fire "and they shot a door and one of the bullets ricocheted and injured the leg of a cameraman," Calderon said. Another employee suffered a broken arm, according to TC. The gunmen eventually surrendered and 13 people were arrested at the site. (With inputs from agencies)

'It was surreal': Ecuadorean journalist held hostage recounts armed takeover

Ivanka Trump, the eldest daughter of former US president Donald Trump, has faced criticism over a social media post about her husband Jared Kushner. In a post on X on Monday (Jan 8), Ivanka shared a video of Kushner promoting a go-getter attitude in a podcast. In the podcast with Lex Fridaman on Oct 11 last year, Kushner said, "I just think it’s just something where, if you want to accomplish something, you know, a lot of people, I hear, complain about what other people do or why it’s hard, or why it’s impossible."

“And again, I say this as somebody who has been so blessed with so many things in life, but when I’ve had challenges or things I’ve wanted to achieve, I just focus and say, ‘What can I do?’” he said

“I’ll read everything I can get my hands on. If I fail at one thing, if the door closes, I’ll try the window. If the window closes, I’ll try the chimney. If the chimney closes, I’ll try to dig a tunnel. It’s just, if you want to accomplish something, you just have to go at it,” Donald Trump's son-in-law added.

Here's a look at the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I’ve received a remarkable number of gracious compliments on <a href="https://twitter.com/jaredkushner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaredkushner</a>'s recent in-depth discussion with <a href="https://twitter.com/lexfridman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lexfridman</a>. 
 
I personally love this clip as it reveals the determined optimist who firmly believes that there's always a solution if you're willing to try enough paths.… <a href="https://t.co/ge8xt6edqR">pic.twitter.com/ge8xt6edqR</a>
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump/status/1744136669551374625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ivanka claimed she had received several compliments on her husband's discussion and optimism. "I personally love this clip as it reveals the determined optimist who firmly believes that there's always a solution if you're willing to try enough paths. I love this about Jared… and it’s a good reminder as we start the new year!" she said.

However, Kushner's remarks faced backlash too.

"Her husband, Jared, who was born into a family worth billions, explains to us how his tenacity led to his success. I learned that if I never give up on my dreams and work really hard, I can also be born into a wealthy family," X user Carlos Turnbull said.

"Most trust fund babies are optimistic. It’s built into the free money," a second X user said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Gracious compliments.” Lol. Trying to alter reality. The remarks were so “Gracious” that she turned them off 😂 <a href="https://t.co/eUzJfeN9cp">https://t.co/eUzJfeN9cp</a>
— Julie B(rooklyn) BABY WOKE AF❌ (@JMeanypants) <a href="https://twitter.com/JMeanypants/status/1744212700928827829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“Gracious compliments.” Lol. Trying to alter reality. The remarks were so “Gracious” that she turned them off," another user on the social media platform said.

Ivanka has disabled all comments on her post.&nbsp;

The critics also included Donald Trump's estranged niece Mary who said, "There’s nothing like 2 billion dollars in Saudi blood money to keep you optimistic."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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There’s nothing like 2 billion dollars in Saudi blood money to keep you optimistic. <a href="https://t.co/HcKKPBNOZt">https://t.co/HcKKPBNOZt</a>
— Mary L Trump (@MaryLTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryLTrump/status/1744145980793250102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Mary's remark could be linked to the year 2022 when a Saudi sovereign wealth fund of the government reportedly invested $2 billion in Kushner’s Affinity Partners fund.

Ivanka Trump, the eldest daughter of former US president Donald Trump, has faced criticism over a social media post about her husband Jared Kushner. In a post on X on Monday (Jan 8), Ivanka shared a video of Kushner promoting a go-getter attitude in a podcast.

Ivanka Trump, the eldest daughter of former US president Donald Trump, has faced criticism over a social media post about her husband Jared Kushner. In a post on X on Monday (Jan 8), Ivanka shared a video of Kushner promoting a go-getter attitude in a podcast. In the podcast with Lex Fridaman on Oct 11 last year, Kushner said, "I just think it’s just something where, if you want to accomplish something, you know, a lot of people, I hear, complain about what other people do or why it’s hard, or why it’s impossible." “And again, I say this as somebody who has been so blessed with so many things in life, but when I’ve had challenges or things I’ve wanted to achieve, I just focus and say, ‘What can I do?’” he said “I’ll read everything I can get my hands on. If I fail at one thing, if the door closes, I’ll try the window. If the window closes, I’ll try the chimney. If the chimney closes, I’ll try to dig a tunnel. It’s just, if you want to accomplish something, you just have to go at it,” Donald Trump's son-in-law added. Here's a look at the video: I’ve received a remarkable number of gracious compliments on @jaredkushner's recent in-depth discussion with @lexfridman. I personally love this clip as it reveals the determined optimist who firmly believes that there's always a solution if you're willing to try enough paths.… pic.twitter.com/ge8xt6edqR — Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) January 7, 2024 × Ivanka claimed she had received several compliments on her husband's discussion and optimism. "I personally love this clip as it reveals the determined optimist who firmly believes that there's always a solution if you're willing to try enough paths. I love this about Jared… and it’s a good reminder as we start the new year!" she said. However, Kushner's remarks faced backlash too. "Her husband, Jared, who was born into a family worth billions, explains to us how his tenacity led to his success. I learned that if I never give up on my dreams and work really hard, I can also be born into a wealthy family," X user Carlos Turnbull said. "Most trust fund babies are optimistic. It’s built into the free money," a second X user said. “Gracious compliments.” Lol. Trying to alter reality. The remarks were so “Gracious” that she turned them off 😂 https://t.co/eUzJfeN9cp — Julie B(rooklyn) BABY WOKE AF❌ (@JMeanypants) January 8, 2024 × “Gracious compliments.” Lol. Trying to alter reality. The remarks were so “Gracious” that she turned them off," another user on the social media platform said. Ivanka has disabled all comments on her post. The critics also included Donald Trump's estranged niece Mary who said, "There’s nothing like 2 billion dollars in Saudi blood money to keep you optimistic." There’s nothing like 2 billion dollars in Saudi blood money to keep you optimistic. https://t.co/HcKKPBNOZt — Mary L Trump (@MaryLTrump) January 7, 2024 × Mary's remark could be linked to the year 2022 when a Saudi sovereign wealth fund of the government reportedly invested $2 billion in Kushner’s Affinity Partners fund.

'Trust fund babies': Ivanka Trump trolled for praising billionaire husband Jared Kushner

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