Africa, with its internationally recognised musical talent - and growing mobile phone use - is central to Swedish music streamer Spotify's plans to extend its reach to a billion customers.

As African artists such as Nigeria's Burna Boy and South Africa's Black Coffee are streamed across the world, the continent was seen as an obvious choice and is the home to more than a third of the company's 85 new markets.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-regional-bloc-loses-92-per-cent-tourism-earnings-due-to-covid-419833">African regional bloc loses 92 per cent tourism earnings due to Covid</a>

The problem is payment on a continent where many people are more likely to have a mobile phone than a bank account.

That means Spotify's first task as it implements a plan announced in February to almost double its footprint is to win over the telecom companies that often equate to banks.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify's head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, told Reuters the company secured "alternative payment methods", namely M-Pesa, when it moved into Kenya in February.

Owned by Kenya's biggest telecoms operator, Safaricom, M-Pesa is used to send money, save, borrow and make payments for goods and services.

"A lot of African countries are unbanked so that means they don't use credit cards and this is very true for a lot of east African (countries) and in Kenya use M-Pesa for the most part," Okumu said. Elsewhere in Africa, Spotify is seeking other collaborators.

"We are having conversations with the right partners to ensure that we are providing solutions to payment problems that several African consumers face in different parts of the continent," Okumu said.

&nbsp;Chasing the mobile money

Irene Kophen, a Spotify premium user based in Kenya, said she prefers M-Pesa rather than bank cards because she thinks mobile money has made music more accessible.

"Most of us have access to our phones, but not many of us have cards, or bank accounts," the 31-year-old told Reuters.

Costs associated with opening bank accounts, the distance to financial institutions and the difficulty in meeting "Know Your Customers" requirements because of inadequate proof of address&nbsp;have added to the appeal of using phones to pay.

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"The past few years have seen an emphasis on shifting towards expansion of innovative banking services through mobile technology to capture lower income segments and the unbanked," a spokesperson for South Africa's Absa bank said in an emailed statement.

By 2020, sub-Saharan Africa had 548 million mobile money accounts, up 12 per cent&nbsp;from 2019 - more than any other region in the world, mobile industry body GSMA said.

That has provided banking access in a continent where about 43 per cent&nbsp; of sub-Saharan Africans over the age of 15 had a bank account in 2017, according to the World Bank, which has not provided any more recent data.

Win, win

Spotify's local rivals, such as Kenya-based and Danish-listed Mdundo and Nigeria headquartered Boomplay have also started to build ties with mobile operators.

Such partnerships are based on telcom providers selling music bundles that give customers access to a streaming company's premium service and exclusively-curated music mixes.

The collaboration can benefit both sides by boosting revenue and helping to increase subscribers, but for the streaming companies it is all-but essential. 
&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/african-cinema-could-create-20-mn-jobs-unesco-418269">African cinema could create 20 mn jobs: UNESCO</a>

"It is critical that streaming companies get this right, otherwise they will lose out on revenue from consumers who were willing, but unable, to pay them," Charles Stuart, PwC partner and director of Technology, Media and Telecommunications, said.

For the telecom companies, which also include Airtel Nigeria and Vodacom Tanzania, the partnership can help to achieve customer "loyalty and stickiness" by adding value, Stuart said.

MTN, Africa's largest mobile operator with 48.9 million active mobile money users, is integrating its mobile money service onto its MusicTime app to allow payments, Serigne Dioum, group chief digital and fintech officer of MTN, told Reuters.

"We're talking to players who are music-only players and also we're talking to players who have broader reach in music, video and gaming and who can position our digital services much better," MTN's Dioum said.

Boomplay, which has 60 million monthly active users, has allowed users to pay via mobile platforms such as M-Pesa and Tigo-Pesa in Kenya and Tanzania.

It aims to roll out that option in Francophone countries, Tosin Sorinola, Boomplay's director of artiste and media relations, told Reuters.

Mdundo, which had 8.7 million monthly active users as of June, has three telecom partnerships in Nigeria and Tanzania, and expects one or two more similar deals before the end of this year, Chief Executive Officer Martin Nielsen told Reuters.

"When it comes to payments across Africa our key focus is bundling with telcos because telcos are the ones who have this reach and access to people's pockets," he said.

Africa, with its internationally recognised musical talent - and growing mobile phone use - is central to Swedish music streamer Spotify's plans to extend its reach to a billion customers.

Africa, with its internationally recognised musical talent - and growing mobile phone use - is central to Swedish music streamer Spotify's plans to extend its reach to a billion customers. As African artists such as Nigeria's Burna Boy and South Africa's Black Coffee are streamed across the world, the continent was seen as an obvious choice and is the home to more than a third of the company's 85 new markets. Also Read | African regional bloc loses 92 per cent tourism earnings due to Covid The problem is payment on a continent where many people are more likely to have a mobile phone than a bank account. That means Spotify's first task as it implements a plan announced in February to almost double its footprint is to win over the telecom companies that often equate to banks. Phiona Okumu, Spotify's head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, told Reuters the company secured "alternative payment methods", namely M-Pesa, when it moved into Kenya in February. Owned by Kenya's biggest telecoms operator, Safaricom, M-Pesa is used to send money, save, borrow and make payments for goods and services. "A lot of African countries are unbanked so that means they don't use credit cards and this is very true for a lot of east African (countries) and in Kenya use M-Pesa for the most part," Okumu said. Elsewhere in Africa, Spotify is seeking other collaborators. "We are having conversations with the right partners to ensure that we are providing solutions to payment problems that several African consumers face in different parts of the continent," Okumu said. Chasing the mobile money Irene Kophen, a Spotify premium user based in Kenya, said she prefers M-Pesa rather than bank cards because she thinks mobile money has made music more accessible. "Most of us have access to our phones, but not many of us have cards, or bank accounts," the 31-year-old told Reuters. Costs associated with opening bank accounts, the distance to financial institutions and the difficulty in meeting "Know Your Customers" requirements because of inadequate proof of address have added to the appeal of using phones to pay. Also Read | Indian Transport minister mulls a law replacing vehicle horns with Indian musical instruments "The past few years have seen an emphasis on shifting towards expansion of innovative banking services through mobile technology to capture lower income segments and the unbanked," a spokesperson for South Africa's Absa bank said in an emailed statement. By 2020, sub-Saharan Africa had 548 million mobile money accounts, up 12 per cent from 2019 - more than any other region in the world, mobile industry body GSMA said. That has provided banking access in a continent where about 43 per cent of sub-Saharan Africans over the age of 15 had a bank account in 2017, according to the World Bank, which has not provided any more recent data. Win, win Spotify's local rivals, such as Kenya-based and Danish-listed Mdundo and Nigeria headquartered Boomplay have also started to build ties with mobile operators. Such partnerships are based on telcom providers selling music bundles that give customers access to a streaming company's premium service and exclusively-curated music mixes. The collaboration can benefit both sides by boosting revenue and helping to increase subscribers, but for the streaming companies it is all-but essential. Also Read | African cinema could create 20 mn jobs: UNESCO "It is critical that streaming companies get this right, otherwise they will lose out on revenue from consumers who were willing, but unable, to pay them," Charles Stuart, PwC partner and director of Technology, Media and Telecommunications, said. For the telecom companies, which also include Airtel Nigeria and Vodacom Tanzania, the partnership can help to achieve customer "loyalty and stickiness" by adding value, Stuart said. MTN, Africa's largest mobile operator with 48.9 million active mobile money users, is integrating its mobile money service onto its MusicTime app to allow payments, Serigne Dioum, group chief digital and fintech officer of MTN, told Reuters. "We're talking to players who are music-only players and also we're talking to players who have broader reach in music, video and gaming and who can position our digital services much better," MTN's Dioum said. Boomplay, which has 60 million monthly active users, has allowed users to pay via mobile platforms such as M-Pesa and Tigo-Pesa in Kenya and Tanzania. It aims to roll out that option in Francophone countries, Tosin Sorinola, Boomplay's director of artiste and media relations, told Reuters. Mdundo, which had 8.7 million monthly active users as of June, has three telecom partnerships in Nigeria and Tanzania, and expects one or two more similar deals before the end of this year, Chief Executive Officer Martin Nielsen told Reuters. "When it comes to payments across Africa our key focus is bundling with telcos because telcos are the ones who have this reach and access to people's pockets," he said.

Music streamers turn to telcos to make Africa pay

More than three thousand residents of La Palma were told on Tuesday they can leave their homes after authorities ended a lockdown caused by a thick cloud of smoke from a volcano that has devastated the Spanish Canary island.

A stream of red-hot lava gushing from the Cumbre Vieja volcano engulfed a cement plant on Monday, raising clouds of smoke and prompting authorities to order people in the area stay at home.

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Emergency services instructed residents in the towns of El Paso and Los Llanos de Aridane to remain indoors, shut their windows and turn off air conditioning units to avoid inhaling toxic fumes from the burning cement plant as it was being gradually swallowed by the lava.

On Tuesday, authorities said the smoke cloud had passed and the air quality had improved so 3,500 residents could leave their homes.

There were 18 seismic movements on Tuesday, the strongest measuring 3.8, according to the Spanish National Geological Institute.

Lava from the eruption that began on September&nbsp;19 has laid waste to a total area of nearly 600 hectares, said Miguel Angel Morcuende, technical director of the Canary Islands Volcanic Emergency Plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-palma-flights-resume-as-volcanic-lava-reaches-sea-417100">La Palma flights resume as volcanic lava reaches sea</a>

After the volcano's cone partially collapsed on Saturday, a new river of lava streamed towards the sea, devouring banana and avocado plantations and most of the remaining houses in the town of Todoque.

Torrents of molten rock have destroyed 1,186 buildings in the three weeks since the eruption, the Canary Islands Volcanic Institute said.

About 6,000 people have been evacuated from their homes on La Palma, which has about 83,000 inhabitants.

More than three thousand residents of La Palma were told on Tuesday they can leave their homes after authorities ended a lockdown caused by a thick cloud of smoke from a volcano that has devastated the Spanish Canary island.

More than three thousand residents of La Palma were told on Tuesday they can leave their homes after authorities ended a lockdown caused by a thick cloud of smoke from a volcano that has devastated the Spanish Canary island. A stream of red-hot lava gushing from the Cumbre Vieja volcano engulfed a cement plant on Monday, raising clouds of smoke and prompting authorities to order people in the area stay at home. Also Read | Lava blocks the size of buildings falling from La Palma volcano Emergency services instructed residents in the towns of El Paso and Los Llanos de Aridane to remain indoors, shut their windows and turn off air conditioning units to avoid inhaling toxic fumes from the burning cement plant as it was being gradually swallowed by the lava. On Tuesday, authorities said the smoke cloud had passed and the air quality had improved so 3,500 residents could leave their homes. There were 18 seismic movements on Tuesday, the strongest measuring 3.8, according to the Spanish National Geological Institute. Lava from the eruption that began on September 19 has laid waste to a total area of nearly 600 hectares, said Miguel Angel Morcuende, technical director of the Canary Islands Volcanic Emergency Plan. Also Read | La Palma flights resume as volcanic lava reaches sea After the volcano's cone partially collapsed on Saturday, a new river of lava streamed towards the sea, devouring banana and avocado plantations and most of the remaining houses in the town of Todoque. Torrents of molten rock have destroyed 1,186 buildings in the three weeks since the eruption, the Canary Islands Volcanic Institute said. About 6,000 people have been evacuated from their homes on La Palma, which has about 83,000 inhabitants.

Lockdown ends for 3,000 La Palma residents as volcano cloud passes

An abandoned and rotting oil tanker in the Red Sea is leaking oil, something that can leave millions of people without water.

The oil tanker FSO Safer was abandoned in the year 2017. 1.1 million barrels of crude oil is still onboard the oil tanker.&nbsp;

Negotiations are underway to offload the oil cargo. As days pass and negotiations go on, the likelihood of an oil spill is increasing.

The oil spill, if it takes place, will wreak environmental havoc that is likely to affect Saudi Arabia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Oman.

The talks between Houthi rebels, the UN-recognised government of Yemen and the UN have not yielded much so far and a staff of just seven is keeping a watch on the rotting hull.

A model predicting the oil spill has been published in journal Nature Sustainability. The model shows that the oil spill is likely to force closure of Red Sea ports of Hodeidah and Salif within two weeks. This may cause fuel shortage in Yemen. Water pumps will not work in this case and 8 million Yemenis will lose access to running water. Desalination plants in the region are likely to get polluted as well.

It is anticipated that half of the oil will evaporate within 24 hours. But the rest will reach Yemen's western coastline in three weeks.

An abandoned and rotting oil tanker in the Red Sea is leaking oil, something that can leave millions of people without water. The oil tanker FSO Safer was abandoned in the year 2017.

An abandoned and rotting oil tanker in the Red Sea is leaking oil, something that can leave millions of people without water. The oil tanker FSO Safer was abandoned in the year 2017. 1.1 million barrels of crude oil is still onboard the oil tanker. Negotiations are underway to offload the oil cargo. As days pass and negotiations go on, the likelihood of an oil spill is increasing. The oil spill, if it takes place, will wreak environmental havoc that is likely to affect Saudi Arabia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Oman. The talks between Houthi rebels, the UN-recognised government of Yemen and the UN have not yielded much so far and a staff of just seven is keeping a watch on the rotting hull. A model predicting the oil spill has been published in journal Nature Sustainability. The model shows that the oil spill is likely to force closure of Red Sea ports of Hodeidah and Salif within two weeks. This may cause fuel shortage in Yemen. Water pumps will not work in this case and 8 million Yemenis will lose access to running water. Desalination plants in the region are likely to get polluted as well. It is anticipated that half of the oil will evaporate within 24 hours. But the rest will reach Yemen's western coastline in three weeks.

Abandoned Red Sea oil tanker may leave millions without water

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered China's growth forecast this year. "Large-scale disorderly corporate debt defaults or restructuring" has been cited as the reason behind this. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed G20 nations on Tuesday. He stressed the need for not letting Afghanistan become a haven for terrorists. Read this and more in Top 10 World News.

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In April, the IMF had pegged China's growth this year at 8.4 per cent. The international fund also lowered China's growth for next year to 5.6 per cent.

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PM Modi told the G20 summit on Afghanistan that there should be an "inclusive administration" in the country&nbsp;

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In May this year, drugs controller general of India Dr VG Somani permitted Bharat Biotech to conduct phase 3 clinical trials of its Covid vaccine on 525 child volunteers.

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Fingers were raised at IMF chief Georgieva after a previous report that said that she had manipulated data in favour of China when she was at the World Bank. IMF board on Monday expressed it confidence in her

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The islands are claimed by Japan and the Koreas. They are currently administered by South Korea. A simple curry served in a Japanese restaurant has brought the topic to the fore again.

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&nbsp;

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered China's growth forecast this year. "Large-scale disorderly corporate debt defaults or restructuring" has been cited as the reason behind this.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered China's growth forecast this year. "Large-scale disorderly corporate debt defaults or restructuring" has been cited as the reason behind this. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed G20 nations on Tuesday. He stressed the need for not letting Afghanistan become a haven for terrorists. Read this and more in Top 10 World News. IMF cuts China's growth forecast amid 'disorderly corporate debt defaults' In April, the IMF had pegged China's growth this year at 8.4 per cent. The international fund also lowered China's growth for next year to 5.6 per cent. Need to ensure Afghan territory does not become source of terrorism: PM Modi at G20 summit on Afghanistan PM Modi told the G20 summit on Afghanistan that there should be an "inclusive administration" in the country COVID-19: Covaxin gets emergency use nod for children aged 2-18 years In May this year, drugs controller general of India Dr VG Somani permitted Bharat Biotech to conduct phase 3 clinical trials of its Covid vaccine on 525 child volunteers. China rejects WHO calls for inspection of bat caves, animal farms: Report Till now, China has been vehemently denying that coronavirus originated from the country and has been resisting international calls for a thorough investigation. A WHO team was earlier carried out observations inside China but there were many restrictions on the members' movement within the country. Kristalina Georgieva to remain IMF chief, gets support from board Fingers were raised at IMF chief Georgieva after a previous report that said that she had manipulated data in favour of China when she was at the World Bank. IMF board on Monday expressed it confidence in her Not storm in a teacup: Korea, Japan fight over 'islands' in curry The islands are claimed by Japan and the Koreas. They are currently administered by South Korea. A simple curry served in a Japanese restaurant has brought the topic to the fore again. Japan's ruling party unveils manifesto with focus on coronavirus, defence The manifesto highlighted coronavirus measures including supplying oral antiviral medication this year, as well as Kishida's vision of realising a "new capitalism" that focuses on economic growth and redistribution of wealth Filled with oppression, can China ever learn to live in peace? China has been allegedly intimidating numerous countries for several years. The increasingly aggressive country has been flexing its muscles in every direction. Will the nation ever learn the importance of peace Parents 'request' school to beat daughter who allegedly had alcohol Netizens are moved and surprised as to how parents can request flogging of their daughter suspecting her to have drunk alcohol. The incident has taken place in an Islamic school in Nigeria Couple uses real tiger in gender reveal party, receives flak The gender of the baby the couple is expecting is indicated when the tiger bursts one of balloons being dangled few metres above him. The video has been posted on Instagram

Top 10 World News: IMF lowers China's growth forecast, PM Modi addresses G20, more

Pakistan was ranked among the worst countries in Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index 2021, slipping 14 places since last year and standing at the 97th spot among 110 countries, The Express Tribune reported.

The DQL survey was conducted by cyber security company Surfshark which evaluates countries based on a set of five fundamental digital wellbeing pillars&nbsp;internet affordability, internet quality, electronic infrastructure, electronic security and electronic government.

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The study shows that Pakistan is lagging behind India and Iran in DQL but performing better than Bangladesh.

The third annual edition of the DQL ranks Pakistan 97th among 110 countries and covering 90 per cent of the global population, according to an official statement.

Internet affordability and internet quality in Pakistan have been ranked at 66th and 74th on DQL Index, respectively, the report said.

However, out of 110 countries Pakistan stood at 106th spot in e-infrastructure, 98th in e-security and 85th in e-government.

Overall, Pakistan has demonstrated one of the most significant downfalls compared to DQL 2020, dropping from 83rd to 97th.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hospitals-run-out-of-beds-on-dengue-surge-419622">Pakistan hospitals run out of beds on dengue surge</a>

The study found that the country`s internet affordability has decreased by 14 per cent and is now around 50 per cent worse than the global average.

The country ranks 66th for internet affordability and is surpassed by India and Iran.

At the moment, people in Pakistan have to work more than four hours to afford the cheapest broadband package.

Pakistan was ranked among the worst countries in Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index 2021, slipping 14 places since last year and standing at the 97th spot among 110 countries, The Express Tribune reported.

Pakistan was ranked among the worst countries in Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index 2021, slipping 14 places since last year and standing at the 97th spot among 110 countries, The Express Tribune reported. The DQL survey was conducted by cyber security company Surfshark which evaluates countries based on a set of five fundamental digital wellbeing pillars internet affordability, internet quality, electronic infrastructure, electronic security and electronic government. Also Read | Digital gender gap: Unequal access to the internet has cost low-income countries $1 trillion The study shows that Pakistan is lagging behind India and Iran in DQL but performing better than Bangladesh. The third annual edition of the DQL ranks Pakistan 97th among 110 countries and covering 90 per cent of the global population, according to an official statement. Internet affordability and internet quality in Pakistan have been ranked at 66th and 74th on DQL Index, respectively, the report said. However, out of 110 countries Pakistan stood at 106th spot in e-infrastructure, 98th in e-security and 85th in e-government. Overall, Pakistan has demonstrated one of the most significant downfalls compared to DQL 2020, dropping from 83rd to 97th. Also Read | Pakistan hospitals run out of beds on dengue surge The study found that the country`s internet affordability has decreased by 14 per cent and is now around 50 per cent worse than the global average. The country ranks 66th for internet affordability and is surpassed by India and Iran. At the moment, people in Pakistan have to work more than four hours to afford the cheapest broadband package.

Pakistan lags India in Digital Quality of Life

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday.

Severe Tropical Storm Kompasu drenched swathes of the most populous island of Luzon on Monday as it swept across the archipelago nation towards the South China Sea.

Four people were killed in landslides in the landlocked mountainous province of Benguet, and one person drowned in the coastal province of Cagayan, the national disaster agency said.&nbsp;

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Seven people were missing on Luzon island.&nbsp;

"Eleven municipalities were flooded but it subsided this morning," Cagayan provincial information officer Rogelio Sending told AFP.

Major highways and bridges were flooded, he said, but the water was retreating Tuesday.

The storm intensified the southwest monsoon, sparking a flash flood in a village in the western island province of Palawan, leaving four people dead and the same number missing.

"Around seven to eight barangays (villages) are still flooded&nbsp;due to clogged drainage or lack of drainage," said Earl Timbancaya, a disaster officer in the city of Puerto Princesa on Palawan.

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"But it's subsiding now."

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons every year, which typically wipe out harvests, homes and infrastructure in already impoverished areas.

Because a warmer atmosphere holds more water, climate change increases the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday.

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday. Severe Tropical Storm Kompasu drenched swathes of the most populous island of Luzon on Monday as it swept across the archipelago nation towards the South China Sea. Four people were killed in landslides in the landlocked mountainous province of Benguet, and one person drowned in the coastal province of Cagayan, the national disaster agency said. Also Read | Cyclone Shaheen: Death toll reaches 13 as storm moves further inland into Oman Seven people were missing on Luzon island. "Eleven municipalities were flooded but it subsided this morning," Cagayan provincial information officer Rogelio Sending told AFP. Major highways and bridges were flooded, he said, but the water was retreating Tuesday. The storm intensified the southwest monsoon, sparking a flash flood in a village in the western island province of Palawan, leaving four people dead and the same number missing. "Around seven to eight barangays (villages) are still flooded due to clogged drainage or lack of drainage," said Earl Timbancaya, a disaster officer in the city of Puerto Princesa on Palawan. Also Read | Philippines president congratulates journalist Ressa on Nobel Prize "But it's subsiding now." The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons every year, which typically wipe out harvests, homes and infrastructure in already impoverished areas. Because a warmer atmosphere holds more water, climate change increases the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.

Nine dead in Philippines storm

Samsung conglomerate leader Jay Y. Lee plead guilty in court on Tuesday to a charge of unlawful use of a controlled substance, as legal woes continue to haunt the executive even after his release on parole in August following a bribery conviction.

Lee's release had raised market watchers'&nbsp;expectations of a flurry of major decisions at crown jewel Samsung Electronics Co Ltd and its affiliates, including the location of a $17 billion chip factory being planned in the United States.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-orders-google-to-track-people-searching-specific-names-report-418636">US government orders Google to track people searching specific names: Report</a>

But Lee's legal troubles continued on Tuesday at the Seoul Central District Court where, in a short first hearing on the matter, Lee said he received propofol - a sedative used in anaesthesia - 41 times from 2015 through 2020.

Prosecutors said that the use was under the guise of skin treatment or unrelated to a legitimate treatment. 
"This matter originated as for treatment, but I am deeply regretful," Lee said. "I will&nbsp;make sure that this does not happen again," Lee told the small court of about 15 people.

Prosecutors are seeking a fine of 70 million won ($84.34 billion) and an additional fee of 17 million won. The ruling will be on October 26.

Under South Korean law, the recipient of a controlled substance deemed to have been administered illegally is liable for prosecution, as well as those who administered the drug.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-seems-to-maintain-strict-land-border-controls-seoul-419089">North Korea seems to maintain strict land border controls: Seoul</a>

Staff at a clinic where Lee received the sedative, who are being tried separately, have denied wrongdoing.

Prosecutors were first made aware of the matter in 2020 but were advised to drop their investigation in March 2021 by an independent panel reviewing prosecution probes. They continued to seek a fine as recently as June before another police report of sedative use led the court to order a hearing.

As propofol is less likely to be misused than many other controlled substances, many similar cases of unlawful use have resulted in fines rather than jail terms.

Lee was convicted in January of bribery and embezzlement and sentenced to 30 months in jail - including a year served before his sentencing. He was paroled in August, with the presidential office calling for public understanding, citing hope that he will help the country produce "semiconductors and vaccines".

After his release, Samsung said it would invest 240 trillion won in the next three years in fields such as chips and biopharmaceuticals. Lee himself has kept a low profile.

Lee is simultaneously on trial accused of stock-price manipulation and accounting fraud related to the $8 billion merger of two Samsung firms in 2015, with hearings held weekly.

Samsung conglomerate leader Jay Y. Lee plead guilty in court on Tuesday to a charge of unlawful use of a controlled substance, as legal woes continue to haunt the executive even after his release on parole in August following a bribery conviction.

Samsung conglomerate leader Jay Y. Lee plead guilty in court on Tuesday to a charge of unlawful use of a controlled substance, as legal woes continue to haunt the executive even after his release on parole in August following a bribery conviction. Lee's release had raised market watchers' expectations of a flurry of major decisions at crown jewel Samsung Electronics Co Ltd and its affiliates, including the location of a $17 billion chip factory being planned in the United States. Also Read | US government orders Google to track people searching specific names: Report But Lee's legal troubles continued on Tuesday at the Seoul Central District Court where, in a short first hearing on the matter, Lee said he received propofol - a sedative used in anaesthesia - 41 times from 2015 through 2020. Prosecutors said that the use was under the guise of skin treatment or unrelated to a legitimate treatment. "This matter originated as for treatment, but I am deeply regretful," Lee said. "I will make sure that this does not happen again," Lee told the small court of about 15 people. Prosecutors are seeking a fine of 70 million won ($84.34 billion) and an additional fee of 17 million won. The ruling will be on October 26. Under South Korean law, the recipient of a controlled substance deemed to have been administered illegally is liable for prosecution, as well as those who administered the drug. Also Read | North Korea seems to maintain strict land border controls: Seoul Staff at a clinic where Lee received the sedative, who are being tried separately, have denied wrongdoing. Prosecutors were first made aware of the matter in 2020 but were advised to drop their investigation in March 2021 by an independent panel reviewing prosecution probes. They continued to seek a fine as recently as June before another police report of sedative use led the court to order a hearing. As propofol is less likely to be misused than many other controlled substances, many similar cases of unlawful use have resulted in fines rather than jail terms. Lee was convicted in January of bribery and embezzlement and sentenced to 30 months in jail - including a year served before his sentencing. He was paroled in August, with the presidential office calling for public understanding, citing hope that he will help the country produce "semiconductors and vaccines". After his release, Samsung said it would invest 240 trillion won in the next three years in fields such as chips and biopharmaceuticals. Lee himself has kept a low profile. Lee is simultaneously on trial accused of stock-price manipulation and accounting fraud related to the $8 billion merger of two Samsung firms in 2015, with hearings held weekly.

Samsung leader Lee pleads guilty to unlawful use of sedative

After over a year of closure due to the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic, discos and nightclubs in Italy have reopened, following a specific decree by the country's cabinet.

Discos and nightclubs have remained shut since the first lockdown in Italy declared in spring 2020, and Monday's reopening would mark the country's latest step to bring back life to normal in terms of leisure activities, reports Xinhua news agency.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-starts-administering-covid-booster-shots-to-people-over-60-419579">&nbsp;Italy starts administering Covid booster shots to people over 60</a>

The move was authorised by a specific decree unanimously passed by Prime Minister Mario Draghi's cabinet on October 7, which also loosened anti-pandemic rules for other cultural and sports venues further.

More specifically, discos and nightclubs will now be allowed to operate to 50 per cent of their capacity indoors, and to 75 per cent outdoors, according to the decree.

Theatresand cinemas will start operating at full capacity, after having been allowed to fill up to 50 per cent of their seats since summer.

Sports venues including stadiums can now operate to 60 per cent indoors and to 75 per cent outdoors.

All new rules will apply to the so-called "white-zone" areas, those where the virus circulation is the lowest, and the related anti-Covid restrictions the fewest.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-tourism-surges-in-july-but-falls-short-of-pre-covid-levels-418165">World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels</a>

Since October 9, the whole country has been in the white zone, and considered at low risk of infection by the Health Ministry.

Only people holding their Green Pass, the certificate showing the holder has been vaccinated, tested negative within the past 48 hours, or recovered from COVID-19 , will be admitted to any of the above mentioned venues.

To ensure better safety, all discos and clubs will be required to have ventilation systems not using air re-circulation in their indoor areas.

After over a year of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, discos and nightclubs in Italy have reopened, following a specific decree by the country's cabinet. Discos and nightclubs have remained shut since the first lockdown in Italy declared in spring 2020, and Monday's reopening would mark the country's latest step to bring back life to normal in terms of leisure activities, reports Xinhua news agency.

After over a year of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, discos and nightclubs in Italy have reopened, following a specific decree by the country's cabinet. Discos and nightclubs have remained shut since the first lockdown in Italy declared in spring 2020, and Monday's reopening would mark the country's latest step to bring back life to normal in terms of leisure activities, reports Xinhua news agency. Also Read | Italy starts administering Covid booster shots to people over 60 The move was authorised by a specific decree unanimously passed by Prime Minister Mario Draghi's cabinet on October 7, which also loosened anti-pandemic rules for other cultural and sports venues further. More specifically, discos and nightclubs will now be allowed to operate to 50 per cent of their capacity indoors, and to 75 per cent outdoors, according to the decree. Theatresand cinemas will start operating at full capacity, after having been allowed to fill up to 50 per cent of their seats since summer. Sports venues including stadiums can now operate to 60 per cent indoors and to 75 per cent outdoors. All new rules will apply to the so-called "white-zone" areas, those where the virus circulation is the lowest, and the related anti-Covid restrictions the fewest. Also Read | World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels Since October 9, the whole country has been in the white zone, and considered at low risk of infection by the Health Ministry. Only people holding their Green Pass, the certificate showing the holder has been vaccinated, tested negative within the past 48 hours, or recovered from COVID-19 , will be admitted to any of the above mentioned venues. To ensure better safety, all discos and clubs will be required to have ventilation systems not using air re-circulation in their indoor areas.

Discos, nightclubs reopen in Italy after over a year

A UN&nbsp;panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first.

The complaint was filed with the UN&nbsp;Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2019&nbsp;and the 18-member panel has been conducting hearings and deliberating since.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-set-to-worsen-resource-degradation-conflict-report-says-418842">Climate change set to worsen resource degradation, conflict, report says</a>

The 15 activists, aged between eight and 17 at the time, had argued that France, Turkey, Brazil, Germany and Argentina had known about the risk of climate change for decades but failed to curb their carbon emissions.

"I have no doubt this judgment will haunt the committee in the future," said US&nbsp;petitioner Alexandria Villasenor said of Monday's judgment. "When the climate disasters are even more severe than they are now, the committee will severely regret not doing the right thing when they had the chance."

There was no immediate comment from Thunberg.

The case is one of a growing number of climate litigation cases that invoke human rights and is seen as setting an important precedent.

The committee, made up of 18 independent human rights experts, concluded that a "sufficient causal link" had been established between the significant harm allegedly suffered by the children and the acts or omissions of the five states.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-cautious-over-fulfilling-un-climate-fund-pledges-414349">Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges</a>

However, it accepted the arguments of the five countries that the children should have tried to bring cases to their national courts first.

"You were successful on some aspects but not on others," the committee told the youth activists in a letter, in which it saluted their "courage and determination".

"We hope that you will be empowered by the positive aspects of this decision, and that you will continue to act in your own countries and regions and internationally to fight for justice on climate change," it said.

&nbsp;National Courts

Lawyers for the children said that they would go to national courts though they said this was likely to be time-consuming and fruitless.

"In effect, the Committee instructed the youth to squander years waiting for inevitable dismissal," a joint statement from lawyers Hausfeld and Earthjustice issued late on Monday said.

One important detail of the ruling was that the committee found that it can deal with cases even if the harmful effects of one country's emissions are felt by children in another country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-taliban-prepares-to-meet-eu-representatives-un-chief-slams-taliban-over-broken-promises-420023">As Taliban prepares to meet EU representatives, UN chief slams Taliban over 'broken promises'</a>

Margaretha Wewerinke, an international lawyer focused on environmental justice,said the case had "broken new ground in climate litigation and will no doubt inform future efforts to protect rights against climate change".

The activists come from 12 countries: Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Palau, Marshall Islands, Nigeria, South Africa, Sweden, Tunisia and the United States.

The committee monitors adherence of state parties to a 1989 convention which declared the unassailable civil, economic, political and cultural rights of children. The convention has 196 state parties. 
A smaller number of countries, 48, have agreed to a protocol allowing children to seek redress under the convention and these include the five countries that are respondents in the case.

A UN panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first.

A UN panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first. The complaint was filed with the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2019 and the 18-member panel has been conducting hearings and deliberating since. Also Read | Climate change set to worsen resource degradation, conflict, report says The 15 activists, aged between eight and 17 at the time, had argued that France, Turkey, Brazil, Germany and Argentina had known about the risk of climate change for decades but failed to curb their carbon emissions. "I have no doubt this judgment will haunt the committee in the future," said US petitioner Alexandria Villasenor said of Monday's judgment. "When the climate disasters are even more severe than they are now, the committee will severely regret not doing the right thing when they had the chance." There was no immediate comment from Thunberg. The case is one of a growing number of climate litigation cases that invoke human rights and is seen as setting an important precedent. The committee, made up of 18 independent human rights experts, concluded that a "sufficient causal link" had been established between the significant harm allegedly suffered by the children and the acts or omissions of the five states. Also Read | Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges However, it accepted the arguments of the five countries that the children should have tried to bring cases to their national courts first. "You were successful on some aspects but not on others," the committee told the youth activists in a letter, in which it saluted their "courage and determination". "We hope that you will be empowered by the positive aspects of this decision, and that you will continue to act in your own countries and regions and internationally to fight for justice on climate change," it said. National Courts Lawyers for the children said that they would go to national courts though they said this was likely to be time-consuming and fruitless. "In effect, the Committee instructed the youth to squander years waiting for inevitable dismissal," a joint statement from lawyers Hausfeld and Earthjustice issued late on Monday said. One important detail of the ruling was that the committee found that it can deal with cases even if the harmful effects of one country's emissions are felt by children in another country. Also Read | As Taliban prepares to meet EU representatives, UN chief slams Taliban over 'broken promises' Margaretha Wewerinke, an international lawyer focused on environmental justice,said the case had "broken new ground in climate litigation and will no doubt inform future efforts to protect rights against climate change". The activists come from 12 countries: Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Palau, Marshall Islands, Nigeria, South Africa, Sweden, Tunisia and the United States. The committee monitors adherence of state parties to a 1989 convention which declared the unassailable civil, economic, political and cultural rights of children. The convention has 196 state parties. A smaller number of countries, 48, have agreed to a protocol allowing children to seek redress under the convention and these include the five countries that are respondents in the case.

UN panel says it can't rule on climate case brought by Thunberg

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) unveiled on Tuesday its manifesto for an October&nbsp;31 election with a focus on ending the coronavirus pandemic, promises to rebuild the middle class and defend against an increasingly assertive China.

The party's leader, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, enjoys a reasonable level of public support a week into the job, polls show, boding well for his goal of maintaining a lower house&nbsp;majority for the LDP and its Komeito party coalition partner.

"We would like to show solid measures and appeal to the people, first, how to confront the coronavirus&nbsp;and to bring peace of mind and hope to the people," LDP policy chief Sanae Takaichi told a news conference.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-kishida-vows-to-devote-himself-to-ending-covid-19-crisis-419051">Japan PM Kishida vows to devote himself to ending COVID-19 crisis</a>

Voters will want to see a government with plans for decisive action to bring an end to the pandemic and rebuild a weak economy.

A recent Sankei newspaper poll showed that about 48 per cent&nbsp;say they want the Kishida administration to work on coronavirus most, followed by economic recovery and employment.

The manifesto highlighted coronavirus measures including supplying oral antiviral medication this year, as well as Kishida's vision of realising a "new capitalism" that focuses on economic growth and redistribution of wealth.

The LDP said in its manifesto it would expand support for small and medium businesses hit by the pandemic and offer subsidies for enterprises if they move into new industries.

Fortunately for Kishida, the coronavirus situation has improved, with the smallest number of new cases on Monday since the middle of last year.

But Kishida is taking nothing for granted and told parliament earlier on Tuesday the government would plan for a worst-case coronavirus scenario by securing more health resources and preparing to start giving booster shots in December.

Asked about how the government would respond to excessive yen declines, Kishida said he would closely watch the impact of currency moves, noting that a weak yen increases costs for companies by pushing up import prices.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-gauge-timing-for-restarting-subsidised-travel-programme-418299">Japan to gauge timing for restarting subsidised travel programme</a>

&nbsp;More on defence

On security, the LDP said it would "reconsider" its response to an increase in China's military activity around the Taiwan strait and islets in the western Pacific controlled by Japan but also claimed by China. 
The government would aim to raise its defence budget "with an eye to bringing it even above two percent" of gross domestic product (GDP), the party said.

Japan's defence spending has stayed around one per cent&nbsp;of GDP in recent decades. 
Kishida, a former foreign minister seen as a safe if lacklustre pair of hands, has a 49 per cent&nbsp; approval rating, according to poll published by state-run broadcaster NHK late on Monday.

That is lower than the approval enjoyed by some predecessors at the beginning of their tenures but support for Kishida's government was higher than the most recent ratings for that of his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-compile-big-extra-budget-after-polls-says-ldp-heavyweight-417867">Japan to compile big extra budget after polls, says LDP heavyweight</a>

Suga grew deeply unpopular as he struggled to contain a fifth wave of coronavirus infections and stepped down last month after only a year in office.

Kishida can take more cheer from the Sankey survey published on Monday that showed 63 per cent&nbsp; of respondents supported his administration, with many voters saying there was no better person than him for the job of prime minister.

The poll showed a solid 45 per cent&nbsp; rate of voter support for the LDP, with backing for opposition parties hovering around the single digits.

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) unveiled on Tuesday its manifesto for an October 31 election with a focus on ending the coronavirus pandemic, promises to rebuild the middle class and defend against an increasingly assertive China.

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) unveiled on Tuesday its manifesto for an October 31 election with a focus on ending the coronavirus pandemic, promises to rebuild the middle class and defend against an increasingly assertive China. The party's leader, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, enjoys a reasonable level of public support a week into the job, polls show, boding well for his goal of maintaining a lower house majority for the LDP and its Komeito party coalition partner. "We would like to show solid measures and appeal to the people, first, how to confront the coronavirus and to bring peace of mind and hope to the people," LDP policy chief Sanae Takaichi told a news conference. Also Read | Japan PM Kishida vows to devote himself to ending COVID-19 crisis Voters will want to see a government with plans for decisive action to bring an end to the pandemic and rebuild a weak economy. A recent Sankei newspaper poll showed that about 48 per cent say they want the Kishida administration to work on coronavirus most, followed by economic recovery and employment. The manifesto highlighted coronavirus measures including supplying oral antiviral medication this year, as well as Kishida's vision of realising a "new capitalism" that focuses on economic growth and redistribution of wealth. The LDP said in its manifesto it would expand support for small and medium businesses hit by the pandemic and offer subsidies for enterprises if they move into new industries. Fortunately for Kishida, the coronavirus situation has improved, with the smallest number of new cases on Monday since the middle of last year. But Kishida is taking nothing for granted and told parliament earlier on Tuesday the government would plan for a worst-case coronavirus scenario by securing more health resources and preparing to start giving booster shots in December. Asked about how the government would respond to excessive yen declines, Kishida said he would closely watch the impact of currency moves, noting that a weak yen increases costs for companies by pushing up import prices. Also Read | Japan to gauge timing for restarting subsidised travel programme More on defence On security, the LDP said it would "reconsider" its response to an increase in China's military activity around the Taiwan strait and islets in the western Pacific controlled by Japan but also claimed by China. The government would aim to raise its defence budget "with an eye to bringing it even above two percent" of gross domestic product (GDP), the party said. Japan's defence spending has stayed around one per cent of GDP in recent decades. Kishida, a former foreign minister seen as a safe if lacklustre pair of hands, has a 49 per cent approval rating, according to poll published by state-run broadcaster NHK late on Monday. That is lower than the approval enjoyed by some predecessors at the beginning of their tenures but support for Kishida's government was higher than the most recent ratings for that of his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga. Also Read | Japan to compile big extra budget after polls, says LDP heavyweight Suga grew deeply unpopular as he struggled to contain a fifth wave of coronavirus infections and stepped down last month after only a year in office. Kishida can take more cheer from the Sankey survey published on Monday that showed 63 per cent of respondents supported his administration, with many voters saying there was no better person than him for the job of prime minister. The poll showed a solid 45 per cent rate of voter support for the LDP, with backing for opposition parties hovering around the single digits.

Japan's ruling party unveils manifesto with focus on coronavirus, defence

Israel will remain opposed to Washington's plan to reopen a US&nbsp;consulate in Jerusalem that has traditionally been a base for diplomatic outreach to the Palestinians, even if political conditions change, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Tuesday.

The consulate was subsumed into the US&nbsp;Embassy that was moved to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in 2018 by then-US&nbsp;president Donald Trump, steps hailed by Israel and condemned by Palestinians.

President Joe Biden wants to reopen the consulate to rebuild relations with the Palestinians, who seek parts of Jerusalem, as well as the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip, for a hoped-for state.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honouring-genocide-victims-merkel-vows-german-support-to-israels-security-419718">Honouring genocide victims, Merkel vows German support to Israel's security</a>

"No way, no way," Justice Minister Gideon Saar told a conference hosted by the Jerusalem Post newspaper when asked if the consulate reopening might go ahead - perhaps in the event of this or a future Israeli government yielding to US&nbsp;pressure.

"It needs Israeli approval," he added, speaking in English. "We will not compromise on this issue" for generations to come.

The US&nbsp;Embassy had no immediate comment.

The issue is likely to come up during a visit to Washington on Tuesday by Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-alerts-embassies-over-iran-terror-threat-report-418779">&nbsp;Israel alerts embassies over Iran terror threat: Report</a>

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a nationalist atop a cross-partisan coalition, opposes Palestinian statehood, and Lapid has said that reopening the consulate could unsettle the government.

But Israeli media have speculated that Bennett could relent if Washington holds off until after his government secures more domestic stability by passing a long-delayed national budget, with ratification votes due next month.

Saar ruled out such a scenario, saying: "I want to make it very clear - we oppose it. We won't oppose it now and have a different opinion after the budget. We are 100 per cent&nbsp;opposed to it."

Israel will remain opposed to Washington's plan to reopen a US consulate in Jerusalem that has traditionally been a base for diplomatic outreach to the Palestinians, even if political conditions change, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Tuesday.

Israel will remain opposed to Washington's plan to reopen a US consulate in Jerusalem that has traditionally been a base for diplomatic outreach to the Palestinians, even if political conditions change, an Israeli cabinet minister said on Tuesday. The consulate was subsumed into the US Embassy that was moved to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in 2018 by then-US president Donald Trump, steps hailed by Israel and condemned by Palestinians. President Joe Biden wants to reopen the consulate to rebuild relations with the Palestinians, who seek parts of Jerusalem, as well as the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip, for a hoped-for state. Also Read | Honouring genocide victims, Merkel vows German support to Israel's security "No way, no way," Justice Minister Gideon Saar told a conference hosted by the Jerusalem Post newspaper when asked if the consulate reopening might go ahead - perhaps in the event of this or a future Israeli government yielding to US pressure. "It needs Israeli approval," he added, speaking in English. "We will not compromise on this issue" for generations to come. The US Embassy had no immediate comment. The issue is likely to come up during a visit to Washington on Tuesday by Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid. Also Read | Israel alerts embassies over Iran terror threat: Report Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a nationalist atop a cross-partisan coalition, opposes Palestinian statehood, and Lapid has said that reopening the consulate could unsettle the government. But Israeli media have speculated that Bennett could relent if Washington holds off until after his government secures more domestic stability by passing a long-delayed national budget, with ratification votes due next month. Saar ruled out such a scenario, saying: "I want to make it very clear - we oppose it. We won't oppose it now and have a different opinion after the budget. We are 100 per cent opposed to it."

Israeli minister sees no compromise on US Palestinian mission in Jerusalem

Although sex determination of an unborn baby is illegal in India, in countries where it is permissible, gender reveal parties are a common fixture. Various creative ways are adopted to indicate gender of the baby to the guests. The creativity may have gone a bit too far in a gender reveal party in Dubai. A real tiger was used to indicate gender of the child.

The couple in question has received a lot of flak for making use of the tiger.

In a video posted on Instagram, the tiger can be seen roaming on the beach next to the famed Burj al-Arab hotel in Dubai. Its curiosity is piqued by a few balloons floating just a few metres above ground. The tiger leaps in air, bursts a balloon that sends pink powder in air, an apparent indication that it's a girl.

Check out the video

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The video has not gone down too well with viewers. Many of them have termed use of tiger, an endangered animal, improper, even a gimmick.

"Ridiculous, wild animals shouldn’t be pets," says a viewer in comments

"Yes congratulations and everything. But this animal belongs to the wild," says another.

The diapproving remarks have come in spite of a disclaimer written by the woman who has posted the video&nbsp;

"Disclaimer- tiger was not harmed and plastic was disposed of," it reads.

Along with those who disapproved of the video, there apparently are many of them who didn't mind watching the tiger burst the balloon. The video has got more than 900 likes.

Although sex determination of an unborn baby is illegal in India, in countries where it is permissible, gender reveal parties are a common fixture. Various creative ways are adopted to indicate gender of the baby to the guests.

Although sex determination of an unborn baby is illegal in India, in countries where it is permissible, gender reveal parties are a common fixture. Various creative ways are adopted to indicate gender of the baby to the guests. The creativity may have gone a bit too far in a gender reveal party in Dubai. A real tiger was used to indicate gender of the child. The couple in question has received a lot of flak for making use of the tiger. In a video posted on Instagram, the tiger can be seen roaming on the beach next to the famed Burj al-Arab hotel in Dubai. Its curiosity is piqued by a few balloons floating just a few metres above ground. The tiger leaps in air, bursts a balloon that sends pink powder in air, an apparent indication that it's a girl. Check out the video View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carlotta (@carlotta.cavallari) × The video has not gone down too well with viewers. Many of them have termed use of tiger, an endangered animal, improper, even a gimmick. "Ridiculous, wild animals shouldn’t be pets," says a viewer in comments "Yes congratulations and everything. But this animal belongs to the wild," says another. The diapproving remarks have come in spite of a disclaimer written by the woman who has posted the video "Disclaimer- tiger was not harmed and plastic was disposed of," it reads. Along with those who disapproved of the video, there apparently are many of them who didn't mind watching the tiger burst the balloon. The video has got more than 900 likes.

Couple uses real tiger in gender reveal party, receives flak

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Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

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