<p>A harrowing development in a moral policing case in Haveri city has sent shockwaves across the Indian state of Karnataka. A young Muslim woman from the state has come forward with allegations of gang rape against seven men who attacked her and her interfaith partner when the assailants forcibly entered a hotel room.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The victim, involved in an interfaith relationship, revealed the horrifying details during her testimony before a judicial magistrate, which turned the case initially perceived as moral policing&nbsp;into a graver one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman survivor involved in the incident narrated her traumatic experience saying, "I pleaded with folded hands, but they paid no heed. Later, three of them dropped me off at a bus stop from where I managed to reach home. While I don't know their names, I will be able to identify them if they are presented in front of me."</p>

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<p>The distressing incident unfolded just four days ago on January 8 in Hangal town and three suspects, identified as Aftab Maqbul Ahmed Chandanakatti, Madarasab Mohammad Isak Mandakki, and Abdul Khader Jafersab Hanchinamani, have been apprehended by the police.</p>

<p>At the time of the incident, the woman was accompanied by her male partner. After the seven men thrashed the Muslim woman and a Hindu man, they allegedly took the woman to a wooded area near Nalkuru Cross of Hangal.</p>

<p>There, the seven men allegedly subjected her to sexual assault. All of them are now facing rape charges. A video of the gruesome incident is now going viral on social media where the men can be seen thrashing the interfaith couple.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-mentions-chinese-article-says-indias-rising-global-standing-can-no-longer-be-ignored-679201">Rajnath Singh cites Chinese article, says India's rising global standing 'can no longer be ignored'</a></p>

<p>The alleged gang rape has also triggered a political turmoil in Congress-ruled Karnataka.</p>

<h2><strong>Political reactions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The party at the centre, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the Congress of not taking any action because of the religion of the accused men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the level of law and order in Karnataka. But the voluble and loud Priyanka Vadra, Rahul Gandhi, Congress ecosystem, and spokespersons, all of them are maintaining pin drop silence. Why is it because Karnataka is Congress-ruled or because of the religion of the accused, based on which they will selectively express outreach and selectively remain silent?" BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said.</p>

<section>
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<p>Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai demanded an investigation and expressed concerns that women are not safe in the state.&nbsp;</p>
</section>

<p>This incident followed a separate incident that transpired on January 6, where seven men were arrested in Belagavi. Their crime was allegedly assaulting two cousins whom they mistook to be an interfaith couple.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A harrowing development in a moral policing case in Haveri city has sent shockwaves across the Indian state of Karnataka. A young Muslim woman from the state has come forward with allegations of gang rape against seven men who attacked her and her interfaith partner when the assailants forcibly entered a hotel room.

A harrowing development in a moral policing case in Haveri city has sent shockwaves across the Indian state of Karnataka. A young Muslim woman from the state has come forward with allegations of gang rape against seven men who attacked her and her interfaith partner when the assailants forcibly entered a hotel room. The victim, involved in an interfaith relationship, revealed the horrifying details during her testimony before a judicial magistrate, which turned the case initially perceived as moral policing into a graver one. The woman survivor involved in the incident narrated her traumatic experience saying, "I pleaded with folded hands, but they paid no heed. Later, three of them dropped me off at a bus stop from where I managed to reach home. While I don't know their names, I will be able to identify them if they are presented in front of me." Also Read | India weather: Delhi shivers in coldest morning of season at 3.9C; zero visibility hits rail, air traffic The distressing incident unfolded just four days ago on January 8 in Hangal town and three suspects, identified as Aftab Maqbul Ahmed Chandanakatti, Madarasab Mohammad Isak Mandakki, and Abdul Khader Jafersab Hanchinamani, have been apprehended by the police. At the time of the incident, the woman was accompanied by her male partner. After the seven men thrashed the Muslim woman and a Hindu man, they allegedly took the woman to a wooded area near Nalkuru Cross of Hangal. There, the seven men allegedly subjected her to sexual assault. All of them are now facing rape charges. A video of the gruesome incident is now going viral on social media where the men can be seen thrashing the interfaith couple. Also Read | Rajnath Singh cites Chinese article, says India's rising global standing 'can no longer be ignored' The alleged gang rape has also triggered a political turmoil in Congress-ruled Karnataka. Political reactions The party at the centre, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the Congress of not taking any action because of the religion of the accused men. "This is the level of law and order in Karnataka. But the voluble and loud Priyanka Vadra, Rahul Gandhi, Congress ecosystem, and spokespersons, all of them are maintaining pin drop silence. Why is it because Karnataka is Congress-ruled or because of the religion of the accused, based on which they will selectively express outreach and selectively remain silent?" BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said. Watch | LeT founder & Hafiz Saeed Deputy Abdul Salam Bhuttavi found dead in Pakistan jail | WION × Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai demanded an investigation and expressed concerns that women are not safe in the state. This incident followed a separate incident that transpired on January 6, where seven men were arrested in Belagavi. Their crime was allegedly assaulting two cousins whom they mistook to be an interfaith couple. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka: Haveri moral policing and gang rape case shake state, woman reveals new details

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.</strong></em></p>

<p>FBI has arrested 29-year-old Texas man Arthur Hector Fernandez III, a former employee of the Houston Galleria, for filming himself, along with six others, while they gang-rape two toddlers in a restroom of the popular shopping mall.</p>

<p>This came after an&nbsp;investigation by the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) which discovered videos on the dark web. Subsequently, the centre provided the evidence to the FBI.</p>

<p>According to authorities, the heinous acts occurred within public restrooms of the Houston Galleria, a well-known shopping destination in the US state of Texas.</p>

<p>Fernandez has been charged with the sexual exploitation of children. The victims, aged 2 and 3, were identified in the disturbing videos. One of the videos depicts a male toddler on a changing table in a public restroom, being assaulted while Fernandez allegedly records the act.&nbsp;In three other videos, a second toddler is shown on a changing table, with multiple men, including Fernandez. Fernandez was part of the act which was caught on at least two of these recordings.</p>

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<p>The FBI, through a meticulous investigation, identified Fernandez by analysing videos and the clothing worn by the victims. Additionally, Fernandez's silver bracelets, noticed by relatives of the toddlers, played a crucial role in linking him to the crimes.</p>

<p>Relatives of the first toddler revealed that Fernandez offered to babysit during an unexpected work situation. This was the only time the child was alone with Fernandez, media reports said citing court documents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Records indicate that the incidents involving the first toddler occurred on May 6 in a Galleria bathroom.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>During a search at Fernandez's listed address, FBI Houston discovered three pairs of white, low-top Converse All-Star shoes seen in one of the videos. Electronic devices, particularly those capable of storing explicit material, were also found, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Children at Risk president and CEO Dr. Bob Sanborn reportedly said, "Kids, after they’ve been out with someone who you thought you trusted them, they will sort of withdraw. They’ll be more quiet. Look for those changes in your children; bedridden, not eating."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In light of this disturbing incident involving toddlers, Sanborn stressed the importance of creating safe environments for children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. FBI has arrested 29-year-old Texas man Arthur Hector Fernandez III, a former employee of the Houston Galleria, for filming himself, along with six others, while they gang-rape two toddlers in a restroom of the popular shopping mall.

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. FBI has arrested 29-year-old Texas man Arthur Hector Fernandez III, a former employee of the Houston Galleria, for filming himself, along with six others, while they gang-rape two toddlers in a restroom of the popular shopping mall. This came after an investigation by the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) which discovered videos on the dark web. Subsequently, the centre provided the evidence to the FBI. According to authorities, the heinous acts occurred within public restrooms of the Houston Galleria, a well-known shopping destination in the US state of Texas. Fernandez has been charged with the sexual exploitation of children. The victims, aged 2 and 3, were identified in the disturbing videos. One of the videos depicts a male toddler on a changing table in a public restroom, being assaulted while Fernandez allegedly records the act. In three other videos, a second toddler is shown on a changing table, with multiple men, including Fernandez. Fernandez was part of the act which was caught on at least two of these recordings. Also Read | US political ad spending set to surge 30 per cent in 2024, fuelled by digital boom The FBI, through a meticulous investigation, identified Fernandez by analysing videos and the clothing worn by the victims. Additionally, Fernandez's silver bracelets, noticed by relatives of the toddlers, played a crucial role in linking him to the crimes. Relatives of the first toddler revealed that Fernandez offered to babysit during an unexpected work situation. This was the only time the child was alone with Fernandez, media reports said citing court documents. Records indicate that the incidents involving the first toddler occurred on May 6 in a Galleria bathroom. Watch | US: Pentagon to probe Defence Chief Lloyd Austin's hospitalisation × During a search at Fernandez's listed address, FBI Houston discovered three pairs of white, low-top Converse All-Star shoes seen in one of the videos. Electronic devices, particularly those capable of storing explicit material, were also found, as per reports. Children at Risk president and CEO Dr. Bob Sanborn reportedly said, "Kids, after they’ve been out with someone who you thought you trusted them, they will sort of withdraw. They’ll be more quiet. Look for those changes in your children; bedridden, not eating." In light of this disturbing incident involving toddlers, Sanborn stressed the importance of creating safe environments for children. (With inputs from agencies)

Texas: Man arrested for filming himself, six others gang-raping two toddlers in mall bathroom

<p>A batch of Russians are to arrive as first tourists in North Korea for the first time since it implemented some of the harshest COVID-19 border lockdowns in early 2020, reports said on Friday (Jan 12).</p>

<p>Entry to North Korea has been severely restricted ever since the Kim Jong Un government closed borders at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent defector testimony disclosed that North Korea had executed citizens for violating&nbsp;quarantine rules imposed during the pandemic, as reported by Nknews.</p>

<p>Tourists are returning after North Korea announced last year that it would begin permitting the entry of citizens who had been barred from the country for almost four years due to pandemic border controls.</p>

<p>Concerns are flagged by Human Rights Watch which stated in its World Report 2024 that the North Korean government continued to exploit the Covid&nbsp; pandemic to enforce “shoot on sight” orders on its northern border, restricting movement, maintaining trade restrictions, and reinforcing ideological control.</p>

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<p>The upcoming four-day tour of the Russian group was advertised by a Vladivostok-based agency.</p>

<p>This reportedly followed discussions between the governor of Russia's far eastern region of Primorsky Krai and officials in Pyongyang in December.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As outlined in an online itinerary, the tourists are scheduled to depart on February&nbsp;9 and will include stops in Pyongyang and a ski resort.</p>

<p>Media reports earlier pointed out that satellite image analysis before and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic along the China and Russia border revealed the extent of the restrictive measures implemented by Kim Jong Un regime.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/argentina-faces-economic-crisis-as-inflation-soars-over-200pc-under-president-javier-milei-679225">Argentina faces economic crisis as inflation soars over 200pc under President Javier Milei</a></p>

<p>About the resumption of tourism, Simon Cockerell, general manager at Beijing-based Koryo Tours, reportedly said,&nbsp;"It is a good sign, but I would hesitate to say it necessarily will lead to a broader opening due to the special circumstances for this one trip."</p>

<p>"But given that no tourists have been for four-plus years, any tourism trip can be viewed as a positive step forward."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tech-titans-in-valuation-race-679231">Tech titans in valuation race</a></strong></p>

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<p>The development also comes after a meeting between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in September in eastern Russia where they pledged deeper cooperation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A batch of Russians are to arrive as first tourists in North Korea for the first time since it implemented some of the harshest COVID-19 border lockdowns in early 2020, reports said on Friday (Jan 12).

A batch of Russians are to arrive as first tourists in North Korea for the first time since it implemented some of the harshest COVID-19 border lockdowns in early 2020, reports said on Friday (Jan 12). Entry to North Korea has been severely restricted ever since the Kim Jong Un government closed borders at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent defector testimony disclosed that North Korea had executed citizens for violating quarantine rules imposed during the pandemic, as reported by Nknews. Tourists are returning after North Korea announced last year that it would begin permitting the entry of citizens who had been barred from the country for almost four years due to pandemic border controls. Concerns are flagged by Human Rights Watch which stated in its World Report 2024 that the North Korean government continued to exploit the Covid pandemic to enforce “shoot on sight” orders on its northern border, restricting movement, maintaining trade restrictions, and reinforcing ideological control. Also Read | China-Russia trade hits record high in 2023 amid decline in US commerce The upcoming four-day tour of the Russian group was advertised by a Vladivostok-based agency. This reportedly followed discussions between the governor of Russia's far eastern region of Primorsky Krai and officials in Pyongyang in December. As outlined in an online itinerary, the tourists are scheduled to depart on February 9 and will include stops in Pyongyang and a ski resort. Media reports earlier pointed out that satellite image analysis before and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic along the China and Russia border revealed the extent of the restrictive measures implemented by Kim Jong Un regime. Also Read | Argentina faces economic crisis as inflation soars over 200pc under President Javier Milei About the resumption of tourism, Simon Cockerell, general manager at Beijing-based Koryo Tours, reportedly said, "It is a good sign, but I would hesitate to say it necessarily will lead to a broader opening due to the special circumstances for this one trip." "But given that no tourists have been for four-plus years, any tourism trip can be viewed as a positive step forward." Watch | Tech titans in valuation race × The development also comes after a meeting between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in September in eastern Russia where they pledged deeper cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea to welcome Russian tourists for first time since harsh Covid restrictions

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an emotional message, announced that he is beginning an 11-day-long 'anushthan' or special ritual in the days leading up to the grand Ram Mandir consecration scheduled for January 22 in the Ayodhya temple city in the northern state of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>"Only 11 days are left for the consecration of Ramlala in Ayodhya. I am fortunate that I will also be a witness to this auspicious occasion. The Lord has made me an instrument to represent all the people of India during the consecration. Keeping this in mind, I am starting a special ritual of 11 days from today. I am seeking blessings from all the people. At this moment, it is very difficult to express my feelings in words, but I have tried from my side," the Indian prime minister said in a post on X social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also shared a YouTube link to his page on the site which played an audio message dedicated to the upcoming 'Pran-Pratishtha' or consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-mentions-chinese-article-says-indias-rising-global-standing-can-no-longer-be-ignored-679201">Rajnath Singh mentions Chinese article, says India's rising global standing 'can no longer be ignored'</a></p>

<p>With devotees of Lord Ram flooding to the temple town ahead of the Ram temple inauguration, the Indian prime minister said that he is "passing through such feelings for the first time" in his life.</p>

<p>The 11-day ritual being held by PM Modi started on Friday (Jan 12) and will end with the grand event in the holy city of Ayodhya on Jan 22.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Remembering his mother&nbsp;Heeraben Modi, who passed away on December 30, 2022 in Ahmedabad in India's Gujarat, PM Modi said, "My mother used to chant the name of Sita Ram until the end of her life. I will witness the pran pratishtha physically, but 140 crore Indians will be present in my mind. Every devotee of Ram will be with me."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is my fortune that I am beginning my 11-day ritual from Nashik Dham Panchwati," he added.</p>

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<p>Ram temple construction has taken place after years of legal battle, which finally got settled with the judgment by the Supreme Court on November 9, 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The dream that several generations have dreamt in their hearts for several years. I am getting an opportunity to be present when it will become a reality. The Lord has made me an instrument to represent all the people of India during the consecration. It is a huge responsibility. The guidance that I got from the great spiritual people, I am starting a special ritual of 11 days from today. I seek blessings from people, saints that there should be no dearth from my side," said PM Modi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an emotional message, announced that he is beginning an 11-day-long 'anushthan' or special ritual in the days leading up to the grand Ram Mandir consecration scheduled for January 22 in the Ayodhya temple city in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an emotional message, announced that he is beginning an 11-day-long 'anushthan' or special ritual in the days leading up to the grand Ram Mandir consecration scheduled for January 22 in the Ayodhya temple city in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. "Only 11 days are left for the consecration of Ramlala in Ayodhya. I am fortunate that I will also be a witness to this auspicious occasion. The Lord has made me an instrument to represent all the people of India during the consecration. Keeping this in mind, I am starting a special ritual of 11 days from today. I am seeking blessings from all the people. At this moment, it is very difficult to express my feelings in words, but I have tried from my side," the Indian prime minister said in a post on X social media platform. PM Modi also shared a YouTube link to his page on the site which played an audio message dedicated to the upcoming 'Pran-Pratishtha' or consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Also Read | Rajnath Singh mentions Chinese article, says India's rising global standing 'can no longer be ignored' With devotees of Lord Ram flooding to the temple town ahead of the Ram temple inauguration, the Indian prime minister said that he is "passing through such feelings for the first time" in his life. The 11-day ritual being held by PM Modi started on Friday (Jan 12) and will end with the grand event in the holy city of Ayodhya on Jan 22. Also Read | Ram Mandir consecration: 100 chartered planes to land at Ayodhya airport on January 22 Remembering his mother Heeraben Modi, who passed away on December 30, 2022 in Ahmedabad in India's Gujarat, PM Modi said, "My mother used to chant the name of Sita Ram until the end of her life. I will witness the pran pratishtha physically, but 140 crore Indians will be present in my mind. Every devotee of Ram will be with me." "It is my fortune that I am beginning my 11-day ritual from Nashik Dham Panchwati," he added. Watch | First Solar opens factory near Chennai to make solar panels × Ram temple construction has taken place after years of legal battle, which finally got settled with the judgment by the Supreme Court on November 9, 2019. "The dream that several generations have dreamt in their hearts for several years. I am getting an opportunity to be present when it will become a reality. The Lord has made me an instrument to represent all the people of India during the consecration. It is a huge responsibility. The guidance that I got from the great spiritual people, I am starting a special ritual of 11 days from today. I seek blessings from people, saints that there should be no dearth from my side," said PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

'I tried...': Indian PM Modi gets emotional, begins 11-day ‘anushthan’ for Ram temple consecration

<p>India and the Maldives share long-standing diplomatic relations. New Delhi has consistently offered support to Male whenever the archipelago nation is hit with any crisis, be it humanitarian or security-related. The most&nbsp;recent example of assistance was witnessed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where India provided valuable aid to Maldives in the form of vaccines.</p>

<p>New Delhi has a history of aiding the Maldives, an island nation with a population of nearly 500,000, including during the devastating 2004 tsunami.</p>

<p>But perhaps the most exceptional illustration of India's commitment to its neighbour was when Male was hit with a security crisis during the 1988 coup.</p>

<p>On November 3, 1988, a group of Maldivian rebels led by Abdullah Luthufi, and Sri Lanka's People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE) attempted to overthrow the government of then-president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in the small island nation in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Gayoom's government quickly sought assistance from the international community, including then-Soviet Union, Singapore, Pakistan, US, UK and India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the one country that stood the test of&nbsp;times for Maldives was India.</p>

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<p>New Delhi, within 16 hours of the SOS received from President Gayoom for assistance, rescued the leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maldives is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, and any political turmoil in the region could have broader implications.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation was tense.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the request for assistance, India swiftly launched 'Operation Cactus' on the night of November 3, 1988, when the coup was attempted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How India went in&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking with WION, Lieutenant General (Retd) Vinod Bhatia, who was then brigade major of the 50 Independent Parachute Brigade,&nbsp;gave a first-hand account of the coup attempt by rebels to overthrow the Male government and how India thwarted it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gayoom, by that time, had already faced two coup attempts: in 1980 and 1983.&nbsp;</p>

<p>General Bhatia told WION, "They staged the coup when the President of Maldives was to come to India on November 3, 1988. On November 3 morning, Male was taken over and the headquarters were surrounded. TV stations and radio stations were taken over, just like it happens during any coup."</p>

<p>On that day, 80 PLOTE fighters and some locals, armed with heavy weaponry, seized control of Male, targeting key infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response, a crisis committee in Delhi led by then-Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi decided to help the Male government.</p>

<p>The 50th Independent Parachute Brigade was activated in Agra, and Air Force and Parachute Brigade units were ready for deployment.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Two Ilyushin IL-76s landed in Maldives at 9:30 pm, carrying Indian soldiers and then-High Commissioner to Maldives Arun Banerjee.</p>

<p>"There were 80-odd people involved in the coup. The moment they saw us landing there, they just vanished. They were firing, they realised the game was over," General Bhatia told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually, paratroopers secured the airport. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We went in at the invitation of the president. Our task was to rescue the Maldivian president. We got the first intimation around 10-10:30 am and the para brigade launched the operation, and we could rescue the president by 2 am in the morning.... within 16 hours. Then we were told to restore normalcy in Maldives."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, the rebels "hijacked a ship called MV Progress Light. They took that ship away. Some of them took boats and went away and we chased them. By 8 November, we got everyone back."</p>

<p>The Navy, under commander of the brigade Farouk Bulsara, ordered to open fire which damaged the fleeing ship. Indian Navy ships INS Betwa and INS Godavari intercepted it, following which the rebels surrendered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every military operation is inherently dangerous. There was a cold start and this was a totally blind one. We had very little intelligence but that's what we are trained and meant to do," General Bhatia said, adding that after the operation, India's intervention was highly appreciated.</p>

<p>The coup led to the deaths of 19 people, while 68 Sri Lankan fighters and seven Maldivians were arrested.</p>

<p>Four, including Luthufee, received initially a death sentence, later commuted at PM Rajiv Gandhi's request.</p>

<h2><strong>A pivotal moment in India's diplomatic history</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Indian forces, including the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, conducted the successful military intervention to quell the rebellion and reinstate the legitimate government in the Maldives.</p>

<p>The swift and decisive action by India is often hailed as a successful example of regional cooperation and intervention to maintain stability in the South Asian region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The operation showed India's ability to respond to a crisis in its immediate neighbourhood and demonstrated its commitment to preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of neighbouring nations.</p>

<p>The Maldives coup and India's intervention in 1988 further strengthened diplomatic ties between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"India is the only nation where whenever we have helped out our neighbours, we have never made a base, we have always come out. Whether it is Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Nepal. So we are one nation where we are friendly to our neighbours."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even in 1971 war, we vacated.. we came back to our country. On 17 Nov, we were out of Maldives," General Bhatia added.&nbsp;</p>

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India and the Maldives share long-standing diplomatic relations. New Delhi has consistently offered support to Male whenever the archipelago nation is hit with any crisis, be it humanitarian or security-related.

India and the Maldives share long-standing diplomatic relations. New Delhi has consistently offered support to Male whenever the archipelago nation is hit with any crisis, be it humanitarian or security-related. The most recent example of assistance was witnessed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where India provided valuable aid to Maldives in the form of vaccines. New Delhi has a history of aiding the Maldives, an island nation with a population of nearly 500,000, including during the devastating 2004 tsunami. But perhaps the most exceptional illustration of India's commitment to its neighbour was when Male was hit with a security crisis during the 1988 coup. On November 3, 1988, a group of Maldivian rebels led by Abdullah Luthufi, and Sri Lanka's People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE) attempted to overthrow the government of then-president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in the small island nation in the Indian Ocean. President Gayoom's government quickly sought assistance from the international community, including then-Soviet Union, Singapore, Pakistan, US, UK and India. But the one country that stood the test of times for Maldives was India. Also Read | ‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppo leader amid row New Delhi, within 16 hours of the SOS received from President Gayoom for assistance, rescued the leader. Maldives is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, and any political turmoil in the region could have broader implications. The situation was tense. In response to the request for assistance, India swiftly launched 'Operation Cactus' on the night of November 3, 1988, when the coup was attempted. How India went in Speaking with WION, Lieutenant General (Retd) Vinod Bhatia, who was then brigade major of the 50 Independent Parachute Brigade, gave a first-hand account of the coup attempt by rebels to overthrow the Male government and how India thwarted it. Gayoom, by that time, had already faced two coup attempts: in 1980 and 1983. General Bhatia told WION, "They staged the coup when the President of Maldives was to come to India on November 3, 1988. On November 3 morning, Male was taken over and the headquarters were surrounded. TV stations and radio stations were taken over, just like it happens during any coup." On that day, 80 PLOTE fighters and some locals, armed with heavy weaponry, seized control of Male, targeting key infrastructure. In response, a crisis committee in Delhi led by then-Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi decided to help the Male government. The 50th Independent Parachute Brigade was activated in Agra, and Air Force and Parachute Brigade units were ready for deployment. Also Read | India’s Lakshadweep to get new airport as part of overhaul to boost tourism Two Ilyushin IL-76s landed in Maldives at 9:30 pm, carrying Indian soldiers and then-High Commissioner to Maldives Arun Banerjee. "There were 80-odd people involved in the coup. The moment they saw us landing there, they just vanished. They were firing, they realised the game was over," General Bhatia told WION. Eventually, paratroopers secured the airport. "We went in at the invitation of the president. Our task was to rescue the Maldivian president. We got the first intimation around 10-10:30 am and the para brigade launched the operation, and we could rescue the president by 2 am in the morning.... within 16 hours. Then we were told to restore normalcy in Maldives." Later, the rebels "hijacked a ship called MV Progress Light. They took that ship away. Some of them took boats and went away and we chased them. By 8 November, we got everyone back." The Navy, under commander of the brigade Farouk Bulsara, ordered to open fire which damaged the fleeing ship. Indian Navy ships INS Betwa and INS Godavari intercepted it, following which the rebels surrendered. "Every military operation is inherently dangerous. There was a cold start and this was a totally blind one. We had very little intelligence but that's what we are trained and meant to do," General Bhatia said, adding that after the operation, India's intervention was highly appreciated. The coup led to the deaths of 19 people, while 68 Sri Lankan fighters and seven Maldivians were arrested. Four, including Luthufee, received initially a death sentence, later commuted at PM Rajiv Gandhi's request. A pivotal moment in India's diplomatic history Indian forces, including the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, conducted the successful military intervention to quell the rebellion and reinstate the legitimate government in the Maldives. The swift and decisive action by India is often hailed as a successful example of regional cooperation and intervention to maintain stability in the South Asian region. The operation showed India's ability to respond to a crisis in its immediate neighbourhood and demonstrated its commitment to preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of neighbouring nations. The Maldives coup and India's intervention in 1988 further strengthened diplomatic ties between the two countries. Watch | Major boost to India-UK security ties: India, UK sign deal on Cadet Exchange Program × "India is the only nation where whenever we have helped out our neighbours, we have never made a base, we have always come out. Whether it is Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, and Nepal. So we are one nation where we are friendly to our neighbours." "Even in 1971 war, we vacated.. we came back to our country. On 17 Nov, we were out of Maldives," General Bhatia added.

How India thwarted 1988 coup attempt in Maldives: Indian army veteran Vinod Bhatia speaks to WION

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<p>Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China was our (Maldives') number one market pre-Covid, and it is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position," Muizzu told the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian Province on Tuesday (Jan&nbsp; 9) during his official visit to China, as per an official readout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His remarks came in the wake of Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against India which triggered sharp reactions from Indians to boycott the island country as a tourism destination.</p>

<p>Notably, there has been a slew of travel cancellations to the Maldives by Indian tourists following the diplomatic row where one of the sitting ministers of Muizzu's government passed unwelcome&nbsp;comments against Indian PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, is on a five-day state visit to China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his Tuesday (Jan 9) address, the Maldivian president said, "China remains one of our closest allies and development partners."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even went on to appreciate China's&nbsp;Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects launched in 2014 in the archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Muizzu said that these initiatives "delivered the most significant infrastructure projects witnessed in Maldivian history".</p>

<p>It is also reported in Maldivian media that China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million project to develop an integrated tourism zone in Maldives.</p>

<p>After the row following PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Muizzu's government suspended three deputy ministers who made abusive posts against India.</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, in India, the number of inquiries for travel to Lakshadweep has increased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) President, Jyoti Mayal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inquiries-for-lakshadweep-surging-none-for-maldives-taai-president-jyoti-mayal-to-wion-678303">told WION </a>that Maldives' Tour Operators and Travel Associations, in a letter to the organisation, have distanced themselves from the remarks by the sitting minister of Maldives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, India was the largest contributor to the Maldives tourist market in 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists. "China was our (Maldives') number one market pre-Covid, and it is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position," Muizzu told the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian Province on Tuesday (Jan 9) during his official visit to China, as per an official readout. His remarks came in the wake of Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against India which triggered sharp reactions from Indians to boycott the island country as a tourism destination. Notably, there has been a slew of travel cancellations to the Maldives by Indian tourists following the diplomatic row where one of the sitting ministers of Muizzu's government passed unwelcome comments against Indian PM Modi. Also Read | Ecuador: Gunshots on live TV broadcast send shockwaves amid country's state of emergency | Video Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, is on a five-day state visit to China. During his Tuesday (Jan 9) address, the Maldivian president said, "China remains one of our closest allies and development partners." He even went on to appreciate China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects launched in 2014 in the archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza Muizzu said that these initiatives "delivered the most significant infrastructure projects witnessed in Maldivian history". It is also reported in Maldivian media that China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million project to develop an integrated tourism zone in Maldives. After the row following PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Muizzu's government suspended three deputy ministers who made abusive posts against India. Watch | Antony Blinken: Israel 'must stop' undercutting Palestinian's ability to govern × Meanwhile, in India, the number of inquiries for travel to Lakshadweep has increased. Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) President, Jyoti Mayal told WION that Maldives' Tour Operators and Travel Associations, in a letter to the organisation, have distanced themselves from the remarks by the sitting minister of Maldives. Notably, India was the largest contributor to the Maldives tourist market in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid India-Maldives row, President Muizzu seeks China's support to boost tourism

<p>Lloyd Austin, the 70-year-old US defence secretary, had been admitted to intensive care due to complications arising from prostate cancer surgery,&nbsp; doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre said, days after it emerged that White House was unaware of the matter.</p>

<p>Initially a minor surgery was conducted on December 22 after early detection through routine screening and Austin returned home the next day, US media reported on Tuesday (Jan 9) citing the doctors.</p>

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<p>On January 1, Austin was admitted again to the hospital due to complications from the procedure, including severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain, along with nausea. The doctors also identified a urinary tract infection, requiring further treatment.</p>

<p>The doctors reportedly said, "He continues to make progress and we anticipate a full recovery although this can be a slow process. During this stay, Secretary Austin never lost consciousness and never underwent general anesthesia."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The delayed disclosure of Austin's hospitalisation has stirred a transparency controversy, with criticism directed at him for not informing the White House promptly.</p>

<p>The Pentagon did not make a public announcement until four days after his hospitalisation, and key officials were kept in the dark about his condition amid ongoing geopolitical challenges such as the Israel-Hamas conflict and its repercussions on American forces in Iraq and Syria, as well as international shipping.<br />
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Quoting the doctors from Walter Reed, the Pentagon stated, "Austin's prostate cancer was detected early, and his prognosis is excellent."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>While some Republican lawmakers have called for Austin's resignation, President Joe Biden's administration has expressed support for the Defence Secretary.</p>

<p>Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder reportedly confirmed that Austin has no plans to resign. Austin has taken "full responsibility" for his "decisions about disclosure."</p>

<p>He said he "could have done a better job ensuring the public was appropriately informed."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lloyd Austin, the 70-year-old US defence secretary, had been admitted to intensive care due to complications arising from prostate cancer surgery, doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre said, days after it emerged that White House was unaware of the matter.

Lloyd Austin, the 70-year-old US defence secretary, had been admitted to intensive care due to complications arising from prostate cancer surgery, doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre said, days after it emerged that White House was unaware of the matter. Initially a minor surgery was conducted on December 22 after early detection through routine screening and Austin returned home the next day, US media reported on Tuesday (Jan 9) citing the doctors. Also Read | Terrorist Hafiz Saeed is serving 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan: UN On January 1, Austin was admitted again to the hospital due to complications from the procedure, including severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain, along with nausea. The doctors also identified a urinary tract infection, requiring further treatment. The doctors reportedly said, "He continues to make progress and we anticipate a full recovery although this can be a slow process. During this stay, Secretary Austin never lost consciousness and never underwent general anesthesia." Also Read | US thwarts 24 missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen The delayed disclosure of Austin's hospitalisation has stirred a transparency controversy, with criticism directed at him for not informing the White House promptly. The Pentagon did not make a public announcement until four days after his hospitalisation, and key officials were kept in the dark about his condition amid ongoing geopolitical challenges such as the Israel-Hamas conflict and its repercussions on American forces in Iraq and Syria, as well as international shipping. Quoting the doctors from Walter Reed, the Pentagon stated, "Austin's prostate cancer was detected early, and his prognosis is excellent." Watch | EU Scientists confirm 2023 as hottest year on Earth × While some Republican lawmakers have called for Austin's resignation, President Joe Biden's administration has expressed support for the Defence Secretary. Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder reportedly confirmed that Austin has no plans to resign. Austin has taken "full responsibility" for his "decisions about disclosure." He said he "could have done a better job ensuring the public was appropriately informed." (With inputs from agencies)

US Defence Secy Lloyd Austin was admitted to ICU for complications from prostate cancer surgery

<p>South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.</p>

<p>He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan.</p>

<p>"I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country.</p>

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<p>The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties.</p>

<p>Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday.</p>

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<p>Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station.</p>

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<p>Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery.</p>

<p>Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.</p>

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South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country.

South Korea's main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, said on Wednesday he hoped a stabbing attack he suffered could mark the end of the "politics of hate" in the country. He was speaking to reporters and supporters after he was discharged from a hospital in Seoul, where he has been recovering since last week's attack in the southern city of Busan. "I hope this case which shocked everyone can serve as a milestone to end the politics of hate and confrontation and restore proper politics," said Lee, who thanked medical staff at the hospital and vowed to serve his country. Also Read | Twitch, Amazon's live streaming platform, to trim workforce by 35pc with 500 job cuts The attack was widely condemned as an "act of terror" and a challenge to democracy by President Yoon Suk Yeol and politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties. Police are due to announce the outcome of an investigation into the attack later on Wednesday. Also Read | AI's double-edged sword: Technology making hacking easy for non tech savvy people, warn US officials Earlier, the alleged assailant told reporters he was sorry over the fallout from the attack as he was leaving a police station. Watch | Taiwan's Defence Ministry issues air raid alert ahead of polls × Three members of the main opposition Democratic Party announced they would leave the party citing disagreements over Lee's leadership while wishing him a swift recovery. Though the Democratic Party and Yoon's conservative People Power Party account for the majority of lawmakers in parliament, a number of politicians on both sides of the aisle have indicated they plan to break away to form new parties to run in general elections due in April.

South Korea opposition leader hopes for end to 'politics of hate' after attack

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