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<p>“…I can assure you that my four-year-old and my two-year-old daughters will not change (their clothes) in front of biological men. This is ridiculous,” the US Representative for Texas Wesley Hunt angrily said on July 27, 2023, as he torched the idea of gender-affirming care.</p>

<p>The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government was hearing testimony from former female college swimmer Paula Scanlan — who was forced to compete alongside a trans-identifying male.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-contributes-to-global-increase-in-mpox-cases-as-lgbtq-stigma-affects-response-638716">China contributes to global increase in mpox cases as LGBTQ+ stigma affects response</a></strong></p>

<p>“If you think that we are all equal and the same biologically, you’ve literally lost your mind. And when my two daughters work hard in a sport, work hard in their craft to be the best that they can be, amongst other women, they will compete against other women,” Representative Hunt said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congressman Hunt takes a Flamethrower 🔥🔥🔥 to<br />
“gender affirming care.”<br />
<br />
We MUST do everything we can to protect our children and we owe future generations of young women all the protection they deserve. <a href="https://t.co/adUwH2fK78">pic.twitter.com/adUwH2fK78</a></p>
— Rep. Wesley Hunt Press Office (@RepWPH) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepWPH/status/1684599182798016512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>He pointed out that when it came to gender dysphoria in children, many in the American medical establishment had “absolutely lost their mind.”</p>

<p>The LGBTQ movement is not new and has been around for decades.&nbsp;But over the years, there has been an attempt to impose the movement’s ideologies onto people, especially in the education system.</p>

<p>The efforts to appease the community in recent years have caused significant damage, especially to children and parents.</p>

<p><strong>Here’s a look at what has happened this year:</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Parents fume over LGBTQ teaching at school</strong></h2>

<p>This year, there have been multiple protests by parents against the LGBTQ curriculum in schools in Western countries.</p>

<p>&nbsp;In early July, around 100 parents gathered for a protest at Birchfields Primary School in Manchester, United Kingdom (UK), the BBC reported. They held signs which said “Stop sexualising our children,” and “Too much too soon.”</p>

<p><img alt="Around 100 parents gathered for a protest at Birchfields Primary School in Manchester" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3629c30e-2782-40b0-a189-7894e921bc66" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_19.png" /></p>

<p>The following month, about 150 protesters marched from the City Hall to the Los Angeles Unified School District headquarters on Aug 21, a report by the LA Times said. The protesters included parents whose children were studying at Saticoy Elementary, where fighting broke out between opposing sides during a protest over Gay Pride activity in June. In this case, the two main demands were placed. First - a discussion about the LGBTQ+ community and sex-related education be kept out of schools. Second- school districts notify parents if their children are asked to identify in school in a manner different than the gender assigned to them at birth.</p>

<p>In January, American media highlighted a few cases where school students changed their gender identity and their parents were completely unaware. They argued that the school administration should have sought their permission or at least told them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/to-marry-or-not-to-marry-an-analysis-of-the-same-sex-marriage-judgment-648831">To marry or not to marry: An analysis of Indian Supreme Court's same-sex marriage judgment</a></strong></p>

<p>In late September, thousands of people in Canada rallied across the country, expressing concerns about how LGBTQ+ issues were handled in schools, CBC Kids News reported. They were opposing how schools were addressing sexual orientation and gender. The protesters pointed out that parents should be responsible for deciding when their children should be exposed to LGBTQ+ teaching. These protests were met with counter-protesters who said such kind of education was essential and schools should be safe places for children to explore gender.</p>

<h2><strong>Social media, LGBTQ 'propaganda', and the dangers</strong></h2>

<p>Social media is a dangerous place if not explored carefully. The most potential victims of social media-related crimes are children who explore this part of the internet with little to no supervision from parents at times.</p>

<p>A study conducted by the MARA Technological University in Malaysia in 2019 showed that there had been aggressive attempts by the LGBTQ community in the country to push their agenda through Facebook and Instagram. The study further said that Seksualiti Merdeka- an annual sexuality rights festival held in Kuala Lumpur - was organised by organisations deemed illegal in the country.</p>

<p>Malaysia opposes LGBTQ advocacy and has criminalised same-sex sexual activity between men and between women.</p>

<p>Two years back, campaigners in the UK accused TikTok of helping children to be brainwashed by showing viral social media videos that promoted changing sex as “cool.”</p>

<p>A report by the DailyMail said that millions of young people were watching content posted by transgender influencers on the social media app- providing advice on transitioning and accessing hormone therapies.</p>

<p>One such video on TikTok said- “Heal with me after top surgery!” – a reference to a reconstructive chest operation.</p>

<p>Another video on the platform said- “I used to be a good Christian kid” before showing the person’s transformation as a "trans, gay atheist who loves tattoos and chaos".</p>

<p>Speaking to the publication, Kate Harris, of the LGB Alliance, which opposes LGBTQ rights charity Stonewall’s policies on transgender issues, was concerned that millions of children were watching these online transgender influencers.</p>

<p>“It’s no coincidence that the growth of TikTok coincides exactly with the exponential growth of children presenting with gender dysphoria,” she said, adding the videos delivered a message that parents should not be involved.</p>

<p>“What these videos would lead a generation of children to believe is that it is easy to change sex and that it is the answer to all of your problems.”</p>

<p>Now there’s nothing wrong with identifying yourself as different from the gender you were born with or having a different sexual orientation. There is nothing wrong with same-sex marriages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People from the LGBTQ community deserve equal opportunities everywhere be it education, workplace, citizen and human rights, etc. Unfortunately, the community is still fighting for these things, along with the stigma it faces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But does the community have the right to force others to think like them? Should those who oppose and want to stay out of this matter due to personal or religious beliefs be labelled bigot or homophobic? That's some food for thought.</p>

<h3><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></h3>


“…I can assure you that my four-year-old and my two-year-old daughters will not change (their clothes) in front of biological men. This is ridiculous,” the US Representative for Texas Wesley Hunt angrily said on July 27, 2023, as he torched the idea of gender-affirming care.

“…I can assure you that my four-year-old and my two-year-old daughters will not change (their clothes) in front of biological men. This is ridiculous,” the US Representative for Texas Wesley Hunt angrily said on July 27, 2023, as he torched the idea of gender-affirming care. The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government was hearing testimony from former female college swimmer Paula Scanlan — who was forced to compete alongside a trans-identifying male. Also read: China contributes to global increase in mpox cases as LGBTQ+ stigma affects response “If you think that we are all equal and the same biologically, you’ve literally lost your mind. And when my two daughters work hard in a sport, work hard in their craft to be the best that they can be, amongst other women, they will compete against other women,” Representative Hunt said. Congressman Hunt takes a Flamethrower 🔥🔥🔥 to “gender affirming care.” We MUST do everything we can to protect our children and we owe future generations of young women all the protection they deserve. pic.twitter.com/adUwH2fK78 — Rep. Wesley Hunt Press Office (@RepWPH) July 27, 2023 × He pointed out that when it came to gender dysphoria in children, many in the American medical establishment had “absolutely lost their mind.” The LGBTQ movement is not new and has been around for decades. But over the years, there has been an attempt to impose the movement’s ideologies onto people, especially in the education system. The efforts to appease the community in recent years have caused significant damage, especially to children and parents. Here’s a look at what has happened this year: Parents fume over LGBTQ teaching at school This year, there have been multiple protests by parents against the LGBTQ curriculum in schools in Western countries. In early July, around 100 parents gathered for a protest at Birchfields Primary School in Manchester, United Kingdom (UK), the BBC reported. They held signs which said “Stop sexualising our children,” and “Too much too soon.” The following month, about 150 protesters marched from the City Hall to the Los Angeles Unified School District headquarters on Aug 21, a report by the LA Times said. The protesters included parents whose children were studying at Saticoy Elementary, where fighting broke out between opposing sides during a protest over Gay Pride activity in June. In this case, the two main demands were placed. First - a discussion about the LGBTQ+ community and sex-related education be kept out of schools. Second- school districts notify parents if their children are asked to identify in school in a manner different than the gender assigned to them at birth. In January, American media highlighted a few cases where school students changed their gender identity and their parents were completely unaware. They argued that the school administration should have sought their permission or at least told them. Also read: To marry or not to marry: An analysis of Indian Supreme Court's same-sex marriage judgment In late September, thousands of people in Canada rallied across the country, expressing concerns about how LGBTQ+ issues were handled in schools, CBC Kids News reported. They were opposing how schools were addressing sexual orientation and gender. The protesters pointed out that parents should be responsible for deciding when their children should be exposed to LGBTQ+ teaching. These protests were met with counter-protesters who said such kind of education was essential and schools should be safe places for children to explore gender. Social media, LGBTQ 'propaganda', and the dangers Social media is a dangerous place if not explored carefully. The most potential victims of social media-related crimes are children who explore this part of the internet with little to no supervision from parents at times. A study conducted by the MARA Technological University in Malaysia in 2019 showed that there had been aggressive attempts by the LGBTQ community in the country to push their agenda through Facebook and Instagram. The study further said that Seksualiti Merdeka- an annual sexuality rights festival held in Kuala Lumpur - was organised by organisations deemed illegal in the country. Malaysia opposes LGBTQ advocacy and has criminalised same-sex sexual activity between men and between women. Two years back, campaigners in the UK accused TikTok of helping children to be brainwashed by showing viral social media videos that promoted changing sex as “cool.” A report by the DailyMail said that millions of young people were watching content posted by transgender influencers on the social media app- providing advice on transitioning and accessing hormone therapies. One such video on TikTok said- “Heal with me after top surgery!” – a reference to a reconstructive chest operation. Another video on the platform said- “I used to be a good Christian kid” before showing the person’s transformation as a "trans, gay atheist who loves tattoos and chaos". Speaking to the publication, Kate Harris, of the LGB Alliance, which opposes LGBTQ rights charity Stonewall’s policies on transgender issues, was concerned that millions of children were watching these online transgender influencers. “It’s no coincidence that the growth of TikTok coincides exactly with the exponential growth of children presenting with gender dysphoria,” she said, adding the videos delivered a message that parents should not be involved. “What these videos would lead a generation of children to believe is that it is easy to change sex and that it is the answer to all of your problems.” Now there’s nothing wrong with identifying yourself as different from the gender you were born with or having a different sexual orientation. There is nothing wrong with same-sex marriages. People from the LGBTQ community deserve equal opportunities everywhere be it education, workplace, citizen and human rights, etc. Unfortunately, the community is still fighting for these things, along with the stigma it faces. But does the community have the right to force others to think like them? Should those who oppose and want to stay out of this matter due to personal or religious beliefs be labelled bigot or homophobic? That's some food for thought. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Rewind 2023: Did the LGBTQ movement cross the line?

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<p>US intelligence officials have said that a Chinese spy balloon that flew across the country earlier this year had used an American internet service provider, NBC News reported on Thursday (Dec 28) citing two current and one former official familiar with the assessment. According to the assessment, the spy balloon connected to a US-based company to send and receive communications from China, primarily related to the balloon's navigation.</p>

<p>Officials told NBC News the assessment found that the connection allowed the balloon to send burst transmissions or high-bandwidth collections of data over short periods. The internet service provider's name has not been disclosed, and the company denied that the Chinese spy balloon had used its network.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A 'highly secretive' court order sought by Biden admin</strong></h2>

<p>The NBC News report on Thursday said that the Biden administration had sought a highly secretive court order from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to collect intelligence about the spy balloon while it was over the US. But how the court ruled in this matter has also not been disclosed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-balloon-panda-diplomacy-us-china-ties-in-2023-entered-a-phase-of-21st-century-cold-war-669728">Spy balloon, Panda diplomacy: US-China ties in 2023 entered a phase of 21st century cold war</a></strong></p>

<p>Officials told the network that such a court order would have allowed American intelligence agencies to conduct electronic surveillance on the balloon as it flew over the country and as it sent and received messages to and from China, including communication sent via the US-based internet service provider.</p>

<p>The balloon had first passed into US airspace north of Alaska's Aleutian Islands in late January. It was shot down on Feb 4. The appearance of this balloon caused a political uproar in the US, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelling his visit to Beijing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Balloon unintentionally drifted into US: China</strong></h2>

<p>China has repeatedly said that the balloon was used for meteorological research. Speaking with NBC News, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the US, said, "As we had made it clear before, the airship, used for meteorological research, unintentionally drifted into US because of the westerlies and its limited self-steering capability."</p>

<p>Liu added that the facts in this matter were clear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US intelligence officials have said that a Chinese spy balloon that flew across the country earlier this year had used an American internet service provider, NBC News reported on Thursday (Dec 28) citing two current and one former official familiar with the assessment.

US intelligence officials have said that a Chinese spy balloon that flew across the country earlier this year had used an American internet service provider, NBC News reported on Thursday (Dec 28) citing two current and one former official familiar with the assessment. According to the assessment, the spy balloon connected to a US-based company to send and receive communications from China, primarily related to the balloon's navigation. Officials told NBC News the assessment found that the connection allowed the balloon to send burst transmissions or high-bandwidth collections of data over short periods. The internet service provider's name has not been disclosed, and the company denied that the Chinese spy balloon had used its network. A 'highly secretive' court order sought by Biden admin The NBC News report on Thursday said that the Biden administration had sought a highly secretive court order from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to collect intelligence about the spy balloon while it was over the US. But how the court ruled in this matter has also not been disclosed. Also read: Spy balloon, Panda diplomacy: US-China ties in 2023 entered a phase of 21st century cold war Officials told the network that such a court order would have allowed American intelligence agencies to conduct electronic surveillance on the balloon as it flew over the country and as it sent and received messages to and from China, including communication sent via the US-based internet service provider. The balloon had first passed into US airspace north of Alaska's Aleutian Islands in late January. It was shot down on Feb 4. The appearance of this balloon caused a political uproar in the US, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelling his visit to Beijing. Balloon unintentionally drifted into US: China China has repeatedly said that the balloon was used for meteorological research. Speaking with NBC News, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the US, said, "As we had made it clear before, the airship, used for meteorological research, unintentionally drifted into US because of the westerlies and its limited self-steering capability." Liu added that the facts in this matter were clear. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese spy balloon used American internet provider to communicate: US intelligence officials

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<p>Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose whereabouts had been unknown for over two weeks, said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that he was fine after a "pretty exhausting" 20-day transfer to a penal colony beyond the Arctic Circle. In a post on X, Navalny said, "Don't worry about me. I'm fine. I'm totally relieved that I've finally made it."</p>

<p>"I'm still in a good mood, as befits a Santa Claus," he added.</p>

<p>Navalny was tracked down to the penal colony called 'Polar Wolf', his spokesperson told the news agency Reuters on Monday. "We find Alexei, after three weeks of search, in polar region, in the north of Russia, in a settlement called Kharp, in penal colony number 3. It is penal colony of special regime," Kira Yarmysh told Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-out-russia-over-its-malicious-targeting-of-kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-673649">US calls out Russia over its 'malicious targeting' of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny</a></strong></p>

<p>"The lawyer saw him today, so he is well, especially given the fact that he was transferred for three weeks, to this place, so this is the information I have right now," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Deeply concerned for Navalny's wellbeing: US</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the US State Department said it remained for the Kremlin critic's well-being.</p>

<p>"We welcome reports that Mr Navalny has been located. However, we remain deeply concerned for Mr. Navalny's well-being and the conditions of his unjust detention," a State Department spokesperson said on Monday.</p>

<p>"We have conveyed to the Russian government that they are responsible for what happens to Mr Navalny in their custody," the spokesperson added and called for Navalny's immediate release and accused Russia of repressing independent voices in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before being imprisoned in 2021, Navalny mobilised huge anti-government protests in Russia. He has spent most of his detention at the IK-6 penal colony in the Vladimir region, some 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In August, a court extended his sentence to 19 years on extremism charges and ruled he be moved to a harsher "special regime" prison for particularly dangerous prisoners.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose whereabouts had been unknown for over two weeks, said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that he was fine after a "pretty exhausting" 20-day transfer to a penal colony beyond the Arctic Circle.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose whereabouts had been unknown for over two weeks, said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that he was fine after a "pretty exhausting" 20-day transfer to a penal colony beyond the Arctic Circle. In a post on X, Navalny said, "Don't worry about me. I'm fine. I'm totally relieved that I've finally made it." "I'm still in a good mood, as befits a Santa Claus," he added. Navalny was tracked down to the penal colony called 'Polar Wolf', his spokesperson told the news agency Reuters on Monday. "We find Alexei, after three weeks of search, in polar region, in the north of Russia, in a settlement called Kharp, in penal colony number 3. It is penal colony of special regime," Kira Yarmysh told Reuters. Also read: US calls out Russia over its 'malicious targeting' of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny "The lawyer saw him today, so he is well, especially given the fact that he was transferred for three weeks, to this place, so this is the information I have right now," she added. Deeply concerned for Navalny's wellbeing: US Earlier, the US State Department said it remained for the Kremlin critic's well-being. "We welcome reports that Mr Navalny has been located. However, we remain deeply concerned for Mr. Navalny's well-being and the conditions of his unjust detention," a State Department spokesperson said on Monday. "We have conveyed to the Russian government that they are responsible for what happens to Mr Navalny in their custody," the spokesperson added and called for Navalny's immediate release and accused Russia of repressing independent voices in the country. Before being imprisoned in 2021, Navalny mobilised huge anti-government protests in Russia. He has spent most of his detention at the IK-6 penal colony in the Vladimir region, some 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow. In August, a court extended his sentence to 19 years on extremism charges and ruled he be moved to a harsher "special regime" prison for particularly dangerous prisoners. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I’m fine’: Kremlin critic Navalny after his transfer to penal colony beyond Arctic Circle

How Tiny Is the Sun Compared to Other Stars? 

The Sun is the largest object in our solar system. It is 1.4 million kilometres in diameter. It is 100 times wider than Earth and about 10 times wider than Jupiter. Despite being this massive, the sun is only an average-sized star, as there are stars of unimaginable size further away in the universe. Here are some stars that are bigger than our Sun: 

Stephenson 2–18 is the largest star known so far. It lies 18,900 light-years away from Earth. Stephenson 2–18’s diameter is 2,150 times that of the Sun. If Stephenson 2–18 replaced the Sun in the solar system, it would stretch all the way up to Saturn. 

Betelgeuse: A Star Much Younger than Sun 

Betelgeuse is roughly 10 million years old and is much younger than the Sun which is five billion years old. 
Betelgeuse is 700 light-years away from Earth. It’s about 700 times the size of the Sun and around 15 times more massive. According to NASA, if we replaced our Sun with Betelgeuse, it would stretch past Jupiter’s orbit. 



Sirius: The Brightest Star in Night Sky 

Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky and February is the month when Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere observers can see it. It is 8.6 light-years away from Earth. Sirius is slightly more than twice the mass of the sun and just less than twice its diameter. 


China to See More Extreme Weather in 2024 

China Grappling with One of its Coldest Decembers 

China is grappling with one of its coldest Decembers on record with some areas in the northeast hitting minus 40 degrees Celsius. China’s north, including the capital Beijing, its surrounding Hebei and Tianjin, Henan, Inner Mongolia, and northeastern provinces Liaoning and Heilongjiang saw their coldest temperatures in December. 

 Beijing Breaks 70-yr Cold-Weather Record

China's capital city of Beijing broke its record for hours of sub-zero temperatures in December dating back to 1951.

After being hit with freezing temperatures, China will brace for another scorching heat and more weather extremes next year. A climate expert told state media that 2024 may be hotter and it could also be a year when extreme weather may become more frequent. 

More weather extremes are likely to hit China next year due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, the climate expert said. Weather experts predict El Nino could fade between April and June 2024, but as its effects take months to materialise, there could be more temperature records broken next year. 

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<p>The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be held on January 22. With less than a month left for the event, a political squabble has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition parties. Invitations to attend the grand ceremony have been sent to religious leaders as well as politicians.</p>

<p>The war of words comes just months ahead of the general election&nbsp;in India.</p>

<h2><strong>'Attempt to politicise a religious programme'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the news agency ANI on Tuesday, senior CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat said her party would skip the Jan 22 event. “Our party will not attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. We respect religious beliefs but they are connecting a religious programme with politics. This is the politicisation of a religious programme. This is not right,” Karat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-temple-massive-108-feet-long-incense-stick-being-prepared-ahead-of-ram-temple-inauguration-672139">Massive 108-feet-long incense stick being prepared ahead of Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya</a></strong></p>

<p>Karat added that using religion as a political weapon or for advancing a political agenda was not right.</p>

<p>CPI (M)'s General Secretary Sitaram Yechury had recently received a formal invitation from Nripendra Mishra, who is the chairperson of the temple's construction committee.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi says, "...The invitations have been sent to all. Those called by lord Ram will only reach (Ayodhya, for Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Temple) <a href="https://t.co/1YawlSfT3c">https://t.co/1YawlSfT3c</a> <a href="https://t.co/5fTgTezDgi">pic.twitter.com/5fTgTezDgi</a></p>
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<p>"What is happening in this inauguration ceremony is that it has been converted into a state-sponsored event with the Prime Minister, UP CM and others holding Constitutional positions... This is straightforward politicisation of the religious belief of the people which is not in consonance with the Constitution. Therefore, in these circumstances, I regret not being able to attend the event," Yechury told ANI.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal told the news agency on Tuesday that he would not attend the event as well. "I have Ram in my heart. I don't need to show off. What I say to you is from my heart because I do not care about all these things. If Ram is in my heart and Ram has guided me throughout my journey, it means that I have done something right."</p>

<p>Sibal, the former Congress leader and former Union minister, said that the whole temple construction issue was a show-off as the BJP's behaviour, and character was nowhere similar to Lord Ram.</p>

<h2><strong>'Only those called by Ram will come': BJP&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In a sharp retort to the opposition leaders, Union Minister and BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi said on Tuesday “Invitations were sent to all but only those called by Lord Ram will come.” Apart from the BJP, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) also criticised the CPI(M)'s refusal to attend the event.</p>

<p>Hitting out at Sitaram Yechury, VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal said, "Those whose name is Sitaram will not go to Ayodhya Dham!! Political opposition is understandable, but if someone has so much hatred for his own name, he can only be a communist! Whether the hatred is towards Ram or towards one's own name, it has to be told..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be held on January 22. With less than a month left for the event, a political squabble has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition parties.

The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be held on January 22. With less than a month left for the event, a political squabble has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition parties. Invitations to attend the grand ceremony have been sent to religious leaders as well as politicians. The war of words comes just months ahead of the general election in India. 'Attempt to politicise a religious programme' Speaking to the news agency ANI on Tuesday, senior CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat said her party would skip the Jan 22 event. “Our party will not attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. We respect religious beliefs but they are connecting a religious programme with politics. This is the politicisation of a religious programme. This is not right,” Karat said. Also read: Massive 108-feet-long incense stick being prepared ahead of Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya Karat added that using religion as a political weapon or for advancing a political agenda was not right. CPI (M)'s General Secretary Sitaram Yechury had recently received a formal invitation from Nripendra Mishra, who is the chairperson of the temple's construction committee. #WATCH | Delhi: Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi says, "...The invitations have been sent to all. Those called by lord Ram will only reach (Ayodhya, for Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Temple) https://t.co/1YawlSfT3c pic.twitter.com/5fTgTezDgi — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2023 × "What is happening in this inauguration ceremony is that it has been converted into a state-sponsored event with the Prime Minister, UP CM and others holding Constitutional positions... This is straightforward politicisation of the religious belief of the people which is not in consonance with the Constitution. Therefore, in these circumstances, I regret not being able to attend the event," Yechury told ANI. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal told the news agency on Tuesday that he would not attend the event as well. "I have Ram in my heart. I don't need to show off. What I say to you is from my heart because I do not care about all these things. If Ram is in my heart and Ram has guided me throughout my journey, it means that I have done something right." Sibal, the former Congress leader and former Union minister, said that the whole temple construction issue was a show-off as the BJP's behaviour, and character was nowhere similar to Lord Ram. 'Only those called by Ram will come': BJP In a sharp retort to the opposition leaders, Union Minister and BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi said on Tuesday “Invitations were sent to all but only those called by Lord Ram will come.” Apart from the BJP, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) also criticised the CPI(M)'s refusal to attend the event. Hitting out at Sitaram Yechury, VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal said, "Those whose name is Sitaram will not go to Ayodhya Dham!! Political opposition is understandable, but if someone has so much hatred for his own name, he can only be a communist! Whether the hatred is towards Ram or towards one's own name, it has to be told..." (With inputs from agencies)

Upcoming Ram temple event turns into a political issue between BJP, oppn

<p>A huge crowd gathered in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit district on Tuesday (Dec 26). The reason - a tigress was spotted resting on a wall of the Gurudwara in the district's Atkona village. According to reports, the tiger came out of the Tiger Reserve forest in the district and reached Atkona village on Monday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The big cat was still resting on the Gurudwara's wall. Scores of people gathered in nearby houses to make videos which went viral on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Here's a look at the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Uttar Pradesh : The tiger, which came out of the Tiger Reserve forest in Pilibhit district and reached Atkona village in the night, is still resting on the wall of the Gurudwara. A huge crowd has gathered to see the Tiger. A security cordon has been created by the Forest… <a href="https://t.co/lvGWH7VHmb">pic.twitter.com/lvGWH7VHmb</a></p>
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/1739501619077882330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A security cordon had been created by the state forest department using a net. Police administration had also reached the spot.</p>

<p>The tigress was rescued and was under the observation of veterinary doctors at the district's tiger reserve. "We have rescued the tigress that was spotted in Atkona village. It is under observation by the veterinary doctors in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. It is a young female and is approximately 2-3 years old," Naveen Khandelwal, the reserve's deputy director, told the news agency PTI.</p>

<p>Khandelwal said that the tigress was spotted in the village early Tuesday. "The tigress was first localised in the village and was brought out from the village on Tuesday morning after being tranquilised," he added.</p>

<p>The official also said that four darts were fired at the big cat, of which two missed, while one dart was removed by the tiger itself.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A huge crowd gathered in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit district on Tuesday (Dec 26). The reason - a tigress was spotted resting on a wall of the Gurudwara in the district's Atkona village.

A huge crowd gathered in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit district on Tuesday (Dec 26). The reason - a tigress was spotted resting on a wall of the Gurudwara in the district's Atkona village. According to reports, the tiger came out of the Tiger Reserve forest in the district and reached Atkona village on Monday night. The big cat was still resting on the Gurudwara's wall. Scores of people gathered in nearby houses to make videos which went viral on social media. Here's a look at the video: Uttar Pradesh : The tiger, which came out of the Tiger Reserve forest in Pilibhit district and reached Atkona village in the night, is still resting on the wall of the Gurudwara. A huge crowd has gathered to see the Tiger. A security cordon has been created by the Forest… pic.twitter.com/lvGWH7VHmb — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) December 26, 2023 × A security cordon had been created by the state forest department using a net. Police administration had also reached the spot. The tigress was rescued and was under the observation of veterinary doctors at the district's tiger reserve. "We have rescued the tigress that was spotted in Atkona village. It is under observation by the veterinary doctors in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. It is a young female and is approximately 2-3 years old," Naveen Khandelwal, the reserve's deputy director, told the news agency PTI. Khandelwal said that the tigress was spotted in the village early Tuesday. "The tigress was first localised in the village and was brought out from the village on Tuesday morning after being tranquilised," he added. The official also said that four darts were fired at the big cat, of which two missed, while one dart was removed by the tiger itself. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Tigress rests on wall in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit, huge crowd gathers to see the big cat

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<p>The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) saw some spectacular title and non-title fights this year. Two vacant divisions - Light heavyweight and Heavyweight got new champions - Alex Pereira (Brazil) and Jon Jones (United States). Islam Makhachev (Russia), the Lightweight champion, defended his title against Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski (Australia) twice.</p>

<p>India made its entry into the world's biggest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) league for the second time with Lightweight contender Anshul Jubli taking on American Mike Breeden. Even though Anshul lost, he has cemented India's name in the UFC.</p>

<p><strong>Here are the biggest highlights in 2023:</strong></p>

<h2><strong>&gt; Justin Gaethje is the BMF title holder</strong></h2>

<p>Lightweight second-ranked Justin Gaethje (United States), who is the former interim champion of the division, won the BMF title at UFC 291 after defeating Dustin Poirier (United States) by knockout. Gaethje finished Poirier with a beautiful side-high kick which the latter didn't expect.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">JUSTIN GAETHJE KO's POIRIER BY HEAD KICK 😱<br />
<br />
WE HAVE A NEW BMF <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC291?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC291</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUunAPoHnO">pic.twitter.com/eUunAPoHnO</a></p>
— UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1685507485010993152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gaethje also won the performance of the night and has now become one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC.</p>

<h2><strong>&gt; Jon Jones: The GOAT makes a return to the Octagon</strong></h2>

<p>Jon Jones is arguably one of the greatest MMA fighters the combat sport has ever seen. He became the youngest UFC champion in the league's history at the age of 23. A two-time former Lightheavyweight champion, Jones' record inside the octagon is insane- the longest win streak, most number of wins, and title defences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2023, Jones stepped back into the octagon after three years and shocked the MMA community as he won the Heavyweight title after defeating Ciryl Gane (France) by submission (guillotine choke) in just the first round of the fight.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The sweetest sound you'll hear all weekend 🔊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC285?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC285</a> <a href="https://t.co/n2MOjU1b4Y">pic.twitter.com/n2MOjU1b4Y</a></p>
— UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1632268464378335237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>There were concerns that this three-year gap could affect Jones' efficiency. But he proved everyone wrong. He was set to make his first title defence against Stipe Miocic (United States) at UFC 295. However, Jones suffered a pectoral injury and the fight was cancelled. UFC 295 saw a bout for the interim title between Tom Aspinall (United Kingdom) and Sergei Pavlovich (Russia). Aspinall was crowned the interim champion.</p>

<p>It is not yet known when will Jones fight next. But he is currently ranked second in the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings.</p>

<h2><strong>&gt; Alex Pereira: A kickboxing champion who shocked the UFC</strong></h2>

<p>Just a few years ago, not many people in the MMA community would have heard of Brazil's Alex Pereira, a Glory kickboxing champion in two different weight classes- Middleweight and Light heavyweight. Pereira made his UFC debut in November 2021 and since then, he has become a fans' favourite due to his exceptional striking and a devastating left hook that would knock his opponents cold.</p>

<p>After just a few fights in the UFC, Pereira took on then Middleweight champion Israel Adesanya (New Zealand) at UFC 281 in November 2022. The Brazilian defeated Adesanya, his long-time kickboxing rival via knockout and became the new division champion. Months later, Pereira had his first title defence against Adesanya but lost the fight.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC295?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC295</a> Official Result: Alex Pereira (<a href="https://twitter.com/AlexPereiraUFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlexPereiraUFC</a>) defeats Jiri Prochazka by TKO (strikes) at 4:08 of Round 2.<br />
<br />
All Fight Results ⬇️: <a href="https://t.co/jS1Gv3z0gc">https://t.co/jS1Gv3z0gc</a></p>
— UFC News (@UFCNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/UFCNews/status/1723570131899502816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pereira then announced his move to the Light heavyweight division and faced Jan Blachowicz (Poland) at UFC 291. Pereira defeated the Polish by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28.)</p>

<p>Next, the Brazilian signed up for the Light heavyweight title fight against former division champion Jiří Procházka (Czech) at UFC 295. Pereira clinched the title by knocking out Procházka in the second round.</p>

<h2><strong>&gt; India in the house: Anshul Jubli makes UFC debut</strong></h2>

<p>In a country largely obsessed with cricket, MMA or any other combat sport has a niche audience. But in recent years, the popularity of MMA, mainly the UFC has grown. This year, India entered the UFC for the second time with Lightweight contended Anshul Jubli fighting Mike Breeden. Jubli entered Road to UFC in 2022 and went to the semi-finals, defeating South Korea's Kyung Pyo Kim via split decision.</p>

<p>The Indian then faced Indonesia's Jeka Saragih in the finals at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs Spivak. Jubli defeated Saragih via knockout in the second round, earning performance of the night and a contract with the UFC.</p>

<p>Jubli is the second Indian fighter to be signed by the UFC after Bharat Kandare. Though Jubli lost his debut fight at UFC 294, he still has a long way to go.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) saw some spectacular title and non-title fights this year. Two vacant divisions - Light heavyweight and Heavyweight got new champions - Alex Pereira (Brazil) and Jon Jones (United States).

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) saw some spectacular title and non-title fights this year. Two vacant divisions - Light heavyweight and Heavyweight got new champions - Alex Pereira (Brazil) and Jon Jones (United States). Islam Makhachev (Russia), the Lightweight champion, defended his title against Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski (Australia) twice. India made its entry into the world's biggest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) league for the second time with Lightweight contender Anshul Jubli taking on American Mike Breeden. Even though Anshul lost, he has cemented India's name in the UFC. Here are the biggest highlights in 2023: > Justin Gaethje is the BMF title holder Lightweight second-ranked Justin Gaethje (United States), who is the former interim champion of the division, won the BMF title at UFC 291 after defeating Dustin Poirier (United States) by knockout. Gaethje finished Poirier with a beautiful side-high kick which the latter didn't expect. JUSTIN GAETHJE KO's POIRIER BY HEAD KICK 😱 WE HAVE A NEW BMF #UFC291 pic.twitter.com/eUunAPoHnO — UFC (@ufc) July 30, 2023 × Gaethje also won the performance of the night and has now become one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC. > Jon Jones: The GOAT makes a return to the Octagon Jon Jones is arguably one of the greatest MMA fighters the combat sport has ever seen. He became the youngest UFC champion in the league's history at the age of 23. A two-time former Lightheavyweight champion, Jones' record inside the octagon is insane- the longest win streak, most number of wins, and title defences. In 2023, Jones stepped back into the octagon after three years and shocked the MMA community as he won the Heavyweight title after defeating Ciryl Gane (France) by submission (guillotine choke) in just the first round of the fight. The sweetest sound you'll hear all weekend 🔊 #UFC285 pic.twitter.com/n2MOjU1b4Y — UFC (@ufc) March 5, 2023 × There were concerns that this three-year gap could affect Jones' efficiency. But he proved everyone wrong. He was set to make his first title defence against Stipe Miocic (United States) at UFC 295. However, Jones suffered a pectoral injury and the fight was cancelled. UFC 295 saw a bout for the interim title between Tom Aspinall (United Kingdom) and Sergei Pavlovich (Russia). Aspinall was crowned the interim champion. It is not yet known when will Jones fight next. But he is currently ranked second in the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings. > Alex Pereira: A kickboxing champion who shocked the UFC Just a few years ago, not many people in the MMA community would have heard of Brazil's Alex Pereira, a Glory kickboxing champion in two different weight classes- Middleweight and Light heavyweight. Pereira made his UFC debut in November 2021 and since then, he has become a fans' favourite due to his exceptional striking and a devastating left hook that would knock his opponents cold. After just a few fights in the UFC, Pereira took on then Middleweight champion Israel Adesanya (New Zealand) at UFC 281 in November 2022. The Brazilian defeated Adesanya, his long-time kickboxing rival via knockout and became the new division champion. Months later, Pereira had his first title defence against Adesanya but lost the fight. #UFC295 Official Result: Alex Pereira (@AlexPereiraUFC) defeats Jiri Prochazka by TKO (strikes) at 4:08 of Round 2. All Fight Results ⬇️: https://t.co/jS1Gv3z0gc — UFC News (@UFCNews) November 12, 2023 × Pereira then announced his move to the Light heavyweight division and faced Jan Blachowicz (Poland) at UFC 291. Pereira defeated the Polish by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28.) Next, the Brazilian signed up for the Light heavyweight title fight against former division champion Jiří Procházka (Czech) at UFC 295. Pereira clinched the title by knocking out Procházka in the second round. > India in the house: Anshul Jubli makes UFC debut In a country largely obsessed with cricket, MMA or any other combat sport has a niche audience. But in recent years, the popularity of MMA, mainly the UFC has grown. This year, India entered the UFC for the second time with Lightweight contended Anshul Jubli fighting Mike Breeden. Jubli entered Road to UFC in 2022 and went to the semi-finals, defeating South Korea's Kyung Pyo Kim via split decision. The Indian then faced Indonesia's Jeka Saragih in the finals at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs Spivak. Jubli defeated Saragih via knockout in the second round, earning performance of the night and a contract with the UFC. Jubli is the second Indian fighter to be signed by the UFC after Bharat Kandare. Though Jubli lost his debut fight at UFC 294, he still has a long way to go.

Rewind 2023: From Pereira’s LHW title win to Anshul Jubli’s debut, here are the highlights of UFC

From Solar Eclipse to Gator-Back Rocks: Five Fascinating Images Seen on Mars

Mars is not just about Rocks and Red Dust

Mars, the fourth planet in our Solar system, is a lot more than just rocks and red dust. Over the years, several pictures of the red planet have been clicked which have mesmerised astronomy lovers.
Here's a look at some of them.

Recently, footage shared by NASA showed what a solar eclipse would look like on Mars. The footage captured by the NASA rovers Opportunity and Curiosity captured eclipses that are very different from those on Earth.

An image taken by the Curiosity rover from the foothills of Mount Sharp showed the formation of rocks that NASA named gator-back rocks because of how they look.

Another image taken by Curiosity showed a sandy floral-like formation on Mars. According to planetary scientist Abigail Fraeman, these flowers are formed by minerals precipitating from water.

Cracks on Surface that Look like Spiders


There are cracks on Mars' surface that look like giant spiders. These cracks were photographed in 2009 by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.

In 2015, a selfie of Curiosity was taken when the rover was drilling and collecting rock samples for analysis.

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<p>Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier in the United States, finds itself in a pickle after it put an unaccompanied child on the wrong flight, American media reported on Sunday (Dec 24). According to a report by NBC Washington, the child was supposed to fly from Philadelphia International Airport to Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers on Thursday. However, the child was boarded on a flight to Orlando.</p>

<p>In a statement, Spirit Airlines said, “The child was always under the care and supervision of a Spirit Team Member, and as soon as we discovered the error, we took immediate steps to communicate with the family and reconnect them."</p>

<p>“We take the safety and responsibility of transporting all of our Guests seriously and are conducting an internal investigation,” Spirit Airlines added and apologised to the minor's family.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Internet reacts to incident, draws comparison with 'Home Alone'</strong></h2>

<p>This incident sparked discussion online with people drawing comparisons with the iconic "Home Alone," movie series. The comparisons were specifically made to Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, where Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) ends up on the wrong plane and gets separated from his family.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Scholars: Home Alone 2 could never happen in modern society. Airports and airlines have too many checks in place.<br />
<br />
Spirit Airlines: <a href="https://t.co/PafSdktabE">https://t.co/PafSdktabE</a> <a href="https://t.co/r9APzDb8M9">pic.twitter.com/r9APzDb8M9</a></p>
— Cody Williams (@TheSizzle20) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSizzle20/status/1738980425001816462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a post on X, a user named @TheSizzle20 wrote, "Home Alone 2 could never happen in modern society. Airports and airlines have too many checks in place." The user then shared the popular "Monkey Puppet" meme.</p>

<p>In another post on the social media platform, The Fact of Other Minds" said, "The plot of Home Alone 2: Lost In New York was only missing one thing to become fully plausible: Spirit Airlines."</p>

<p>"'Home Alone 2 could never happen in 2023.' My friend have you considered: Spirit Airlines," another user on X said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier in the United States, finds itself in a pickle after it put an unaccompanied child on the wrong flight, American media reported on Sunday (Dec 24).

Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier in the United States, finds itself in a pickle after it put an unaccompanied child on the wrong flight, American media reported on Sunday (Dec 24). According to a report by NBC Washington, the child was supposed to fly from Philadelphia International Airport to Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers on Thursday. However, the child was boarded on a flight to Orlando. In a statement, Spirit Airlines said, “The child was always under the care and supervision of a Spirit Team Member, and as soon as we discovered the error, we took immediate steps to communicate with the family and reconnect them." “We take the safety and responsibility of transporting all of our Guests seriously and are conducting an internal investigation,” Spirit Airlines added and apologised to the minor's family. Internet reacts to incident, draws comparison with 'Home Alone' This incident sparked discussion online with people drawing comparisons with the iconic "Home Alone," movie series. The comparisons were specifically made to Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, where Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) ends up on the wrong plane and gets separated from his family. Scholars: Home Alone 2 could never happen in modern society. Airports and airlines have too many checks in place. Spirit Airlines: https://t.co/PafSdktabE pic.twitter.com/r9APzDb8M9 — Cody Williams (@TheSizzle20) December 24, 2023 × In a post on X, a user named @TheSizzle20 wrote, "Home Alone 2 could never happen in modern society. Airports and airlines have too many checks in place." The user then shared the popular "Monkey Puppet" meme. In another post on the social media platform, The Fact of Other Minds" said, "The plot of Home Alone 2: Lost In New York was only missing one thing to become fully plausible: Spirit Airlines." "'Home Alone 2 could never happen in 2023.' My friend have you considered: Spirit Airlines," another user on X said.

Home Alone in 2023? US airline trolled for putting unaccompanied kid on wrong flight

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<p>At least 68 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a refugee camp in central Gaza as the war between Israel and Hamas&nbsp;soon enters its third month. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (Dec 24), the strike was on the Maghazi refugee camp east of Deir al-Balah. The deaths include at least 12 women and seven children. The Palestinian health ministry had earlier put the death toll at&nbsp;70.</p>

<p>The Israeli military has not commented on the development yet. The report said that the number of Israeli soldiers killed in combat over the weekend climbed to 15.</p>

<h2><strong>'No safe place in Gaza'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the news agency, Ahmad Turokmani, who lost several family members, including his daughter and grandson in the strike said, "We were all targeted. There is no safe place in Gaza anyway."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-hopes-of-truce-revived-as-egypt-proposes-ambitious-peace-plan-673207">Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes ambitious peace plan</a></strong></p>

<p>Last Friday, Israeli airstrikes on two houses in Gaza killed 90 Palestinians, including dozens from an extended family. A spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense Department said that one of the houses, located in Gaza City, fell prey to one of the deadliest airstrikes in the war after 76 people from the al-Mughrabi family were killed.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, an Israeli strike overnight hit a house in a refugee camp west of the city of Rafah, on Gaza’s border with Egypt, killing at least two men. Another Israeli missile struck a building in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, killing two people and wounding six others.</p>

<h2><strong>Gaza death toll hits 20,424</strong></h2>

<p>The total number of deaths in the Gaza Strip during the ongoing conflict has climbed to 20,424, the Palestinian health ministry said on Sunday. The toll included 166 deaths in the past 24 hours.</p>

<p>Israel has been facing international criticism for the civilian death toll but it blames Hamas, citing the militants’ use of crowded residential areas and tunnels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-didnt-talk-about-ceasefire-during-private-conversation-with-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-673116">Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a></strong></p>

<p>Israel also faces allegations of mistreating Palestinian men and teenage boys detained in homes, shelters, hospitals, and elsewhere during its offensive. It has denied abuse allegations and said those without links to militants are quickly released.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least 68 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a refugee camp in central Gaza as the war between Israel and Hamas soon enters its third month. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (Dec 24), the strike was on the Maghazi refugee camp east of Deir al-Balah.

At least 68 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a refugee camp in central Gaza as the war between Israel and Hamas soon enters its third month. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (Dec 24), the strike was on the Maghazi refugee camp east of Deir al-Balah. The deaths include at least 12 women and seven children. The Palestinian health ministry had earlier put the death toll at 70. The Israeli military has not commented on the development yet. The report said that the number of Israeli soldiers killed in combat over the weekend climbed to 15. 'No safe place in Gaza' Speaking to the news agency, Ahmad Turokmani, who lost several family members, including his daughter and grandson in the strike said, "We were all targeted. There is no safe place in Gaza anyway." Also read: Hopes of truce revived as Egypt proposes ambitious peace plan Last Friday, Israeli airstrikes on two houses in Gaza killed 90 Palestinians, including dozens from an extended family. A spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense Department said that one of the houses, located in Gaza City, fell prey to one of the deadliest airstrikes in the war after 76 people from the al-Mughrabi family were killed. Meanwhile, an Israeli strike overnight hit a house in a refugee camp west of the city of Rafah, on Gaza’s border with Egypt, killing at least two men. Another Israeli missile struck a building in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, killing two people and wounding six others. Gaza death toll hits 20,424 The total number of deaths in the Gaza Strip during the ongoing conflict has climbed to 20,424, the Palestinian health ministry said on Sunday. The toll included 166 deaths in the past 24 hours. Israel has been facing international criticism for the civilian death toll but it blames Hamas, citing the militants’ use of crowded residential areas and tunnels. Also read: Biden says didn’t talk about ceasefire during private conversation with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Israel also faces allegations of mistreating Palestinian men and teenage boys detained in homes, shelters, hospitals, and elsewhere during its offensive. It has denied abuse allegations and said those without links to militants are quickly released. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: At least 68 killed in Gaza Strip following Israeli strike on refugee camp

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<p>An aircraft with 303 Indian passengers detained near Paris over the suspicion of human trafficking could leave on Monday (Dec 25),&nbsp;news agency AFP reported citing French judicial officials. The Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340 has been held at the Vatry airport, 150 kilometres east of Paris, since arriving from Dubai on Thursday following an anonymous tip-off that it was carrying potential victims of human trafficking.</p>

<p>The aircraft was operated by the Romanian company Legend Airlines.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plane-carrying-over-300-indians-grounded-in-france-faces-allegations-of-human-trafficking-672727">Indian embassy obtains consular access of 300 Indians grounded in France amid human trafficking allegations</a></strong></p>

<p>After passengers were questioned for two days, French prosecutors on Sunday gave the go-ahead for the plane to leave, and full approval for its departure is expected Monday, according to the local prefecture.</p>

<p>It was not known what would be the destination, but the head of the local bar association, Francois Procureur, told a press conference the passengers would be flown to India, AFP reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Eleven unaccompanied minors among passengers</strong></h2>

<p>The passengers aboard the aircraft included 11 unaccompanied minors, according to Paris prosecutors. Six of the minors expressed an interest in applying for asylum.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/303-indians-include-11-unaccompanied-minors-as-france-continues-human-trafficking-probe-672998">11 minors among 303 Indian passengers on flight grounded by France: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The passengers were put up at the airport during the investigation. Two of them were detained&nbsp;"to verify" whether their role "may have been different than the others in this transport, and under what conditions and with what objectives".</p>

<p>Twelve of the passengers have requested asylum, a source told AFP.</p>

<p>Another source said that Indian passengers were likely workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who had been bound for Nicaragua as a jumping-off spot for the United States or Canada.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An aircraft with 303 Indian passengers detained near Paris over the suspicion of human trafficking could leave on Monday (Dec 25), news agency AFP reported citing French judicial officials.

An aircraft with 303 Indian passengers detained near Paris over the suspicion of human trafficking could leave on Monday (Dec 25), news agency AFP reported citing French judicial officials. The Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340 has been held at the Vatry airport, 150 kilometres east of Paris, since arriving from Dubai on Thursday following an anonymous tip-off that it was carrying potential victims of human trafficking. The aircraft was operated by the Romanian company Legend Airlines. Also read: Indian embassy obtains consular access of 300 Indians grounded in France amid human trafficking allegations After passengers were questioned for two days, French prosecutors on Sunday gave the go-ahead for the plane to leave, and full approval for its departure is expected Monday, according to the local prefecture. It was not known what would be the destination, but the head of the local bar association, Francois Procureur, told a press conference the passengers would be flown to India, AFP reported. Eleven unaccompanied minors among passengers The passengers aboard the aircraft included 11 unaccompanied minors, according to Paris prosecutors. Six of the minors expressed an interest in applying for asylum. Also read: 11 minors among 303 Indian passengers on flight grounded by France: Report The passengers were put up at the airport during the investigation. Two of them were detained "to verify" whether their role "may have been different than the others in this transport, and under what conditions and with what objectives". Twelve of the passengers have requested asylum, a source told AFP. Another source said that Indian passengers were likely workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who had been bound for Nicaragua as a jumping-off spot for the United States or Canada. (With inputs from agencies)

Aircraft with Indian passengers detained in France could leave today

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