Tens of thousands of citizens in Myanmar resumed protest against the military junta after a night of fear. On Saturday, army rolled back laws protecting freedoms. Citizens formed patrolling parties.

Engineering students marched through downtown Yangon, the biggest city, wearing white and carrying placards demanding the release of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been in detention since Myanmar’s military overthrew her elected government on February 1.

Part of the biggest street protests in more than a decade, a fleet of highway buses rolled slowly through the city, honking their horns in protest.

A convoy on motorbikes and in cars drove through the capital Naypyitaw. In the southeastern coastal town of Dawei, a band played drums in shadows cast by awnings as crowds marched under the hot sun. In Waimaw, in the far northern Kachin state on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, crowds carried flags and sang revolutionary songs.

Protesters were seen across the country holding pictures of Aung San Suu Kyi.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi's detention on charges of importing walkie-talkies will expire on Monday.&nbsp;

More than 384 people have been detained since the coup, the monitoring group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners said.

"While the international community is condemning the coup, Min Aung Hlaing is using every tool he has to instigate fears and instabilities," activist Wai Hnin Pwint Thon from the UK-based rights group Burma Campaign UK said on Twitter, referring to the army chief.

Many protesters in Yangon carried signs calling to authorities to “stop kidnapping people at night”.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-suspends-laws-limiting-forces-orders-arrest-of-protest-backers-363460">Myanmar army suspends laws limiting forces, orders arrest of protest backers</a>

Residents banded together late on Saturday to patrol streets in Yangon and the country's second-largest city Mandalay, fearing arrest raids as well as common crime after the junta ordered the release of thousands of prisoners.

Prisoner released to incite fear?

Citizens are reportedly worried that the military junta has ordered release of prisoners so that they could foment unrest and spread fear. This, the citizens worried, was a strategy to deter them from protesting against the military junta.

Yangon residents caught and handed over people they suspected of being released criminals over to police on Sunday (February 14), worried that they might instigate violence in their communities.

Worries about criminal activity have soared since Friday (February 12), when the junta announced it would free 23,000 prisoners, saying the move was consistent with "establishing a new democratic state with peace, development and discipline" and would "please the public". Reuters could not independently verify the identification of the captured and tied up suspects in the communities.

"We think the military intends to cause violence with these (ex) criminals by getting them to infiltrate the peaceful protests. Then the military will have a reason to extend their power to crackdown on violence," said Tin Myint, a Yangon resident.

Tens of thousands of citizens in Myanmar resumed protest against the military junta after a night of fear. On Saturday, army rolled back laws protecting freedoms.

Tens of thousands of citizens in Myanmar resumed protest against the military junta after a night of fear. On Saturday, army rolled back laws protecting freedoms. Citizens formed patrolling parties. Engineering students marched through downtown Yangon, the biggest city, wearing white and carrying placards demanding the release of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been in detention since Myanmar’s military overthrew her elected government on February 1. Part of the biggest street protests in more than a decade, a fleet of highway buses rolled slowly through the city, honking their horns in protest. A convoy on motorbikes and in cars drove through the capital Naypyitaw. In the southeastern coastal town of Dawei, a band played drums in shadows cast by awnings as crowds marched under the hot sun. In Waimaw, in the far northern Kachin state on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, crowds carried flags and sang revolutionary songs. Protesters were seen across the country holding pictures of Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi's detention on charges of importing walkie-talkies will expire on Monday. More than 384 people have been detained since the coup, the monitoring group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners said. "While the international community is condemning the coup, Min Aung Hlaing is using every tool he has to instigate fears and instabilities," activist Wai Hnin Pwint Thon from the UK-based rights group Burma Campaign UK said on Twitter, referring to the army chief. Many protesters in Yangon carried signs calling to authorities to “stop kidnapping people at night”. Also Read | Myanmar army suspends laws limiting forces, orders arrest of protest backers Residents banded together late on Saturday to patrol streets in Yangon and the country's second-largest city Mandalay, fearing arrest raids as well as common crime after the junta ordered the release of thousands of prisoners. Prisoner released to incite fear? Citizens are reportedly worried that the military junta has ordered release of prisoners so that they could foment unrest and spread fear. This, the citizens worried, was a strategy to deter them from protesting against the military junta. Yangon residents caught and handed over people they suspected of being released criminals over to police on Sunday (February 14), worried that they might instigate violence in their communities. Worries about criminal activity have soared since Friday (February 12), when the junta announced it would free 23,000 prisoners, saying the move was consistent with "establishing a new democratic state with peace, development and discipline" and would "please the public". Reuters could not independently verify the identification of the captured and tied up suspects in the communities. "We think the military intends to cause violence with these (ex) criminals by getting them to infiltrate the peaceful protests. Then the military will have a reason to extend their power to crackdown on violence," said Tin Myint, a Yangon resident.

Myanmar: After a night of fear, tens of thousands resume protests

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV has drawn criticism for broadcast of its new year gala in which performers were seen approximating African clothing. The performers had darkened their skin with make-up as well. The new year gala marked beginning Lunar New Year. CCTV's broadcast typically draws hundreds of millions of viewers.

"The New Year Gala director team is just stupid and vicious," said one of a number of users who took to Weibo, China's Twitter-like social media platform, to criticise the skit.

"Is there any difference between Chinese people doing blackface and white people slanting their eyes to make fun of Asians?"

China's foreign ministry said the integration of cultural elements from other countries into Chinese shows was a sign of respect and the inclusion of the African segment was not a diplomatic issue.

"If anyone wants to seize on the CCTV Spring Festival Gala programme to make a fuss, or even sow discord in relations between China and African countries, they obviously have ulterior motives," it said in a statement to Reuters.

The new year gala had led to a controversy in 2018 as well. At that time a skit featuring actress Lou Naiming drew criticism. She appeared on stage in colourful garb, her face and arms coloured brown, carrying a fruit basket on her head and accompanied by someone costumed as a monkey.

This year's gala saw organisations and advocates for Africans in China lambast the show. The show aired on Thursday evening.

"While supporters of the practice allege that blackface centres on empathy &amp; realism, it’s difficult to disassociate it from a long history of minstrelsy &amp; fixation on problematic caricatures," Black China Caucus, an activist group, said on Twitter.

"Next year, we hope organizers decide to end this practice &amp; hire some of thousands of Black people living in many parts of China." 
&nbsp;

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV has drawn criticism for broadcast of its new year gala in which performers were seen approximating African clothing. The performers had darkened their skin with make-up as well.

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV has drawn criticism for broadcast of its new year gala in which performers were seen approximating African clothing. The performers had darkened their skin with make-up as well. The new year gala marked beginning Lunar New Year. CCTV's broadcast typically draws hundreds of millions of viewers. "The New Year Gala director team is just stupid and vicious," said one of a number of users who took to Weibo, China's Twitter-like social media platform, to criticise the skit. "Is there any difference between Chinese people doing blackface and white people slanting their eyes to make fun of Asians?" China's foreign ministry said the integration of cultural elements from other countries into Chinese shows was a sign of respect and the inclusion of the African segment was not a diplomatic issue. "If anyone wants to seize on the CCTV Spring Festival Gala programme to make a fuss, or even sow discord in relations between China and African countries, they obviously have ulterior motives," it said in a statement to Reuters. The new year gala had led to a controversy in 2018 as well. At that time a skit featuring actress Lou Naiming drew criticism. She appeared on stage in colourful garb, her face and arms coloured brown, carrying a fruit basket on her head and accompanied by someone costumed as a monkey. This year's gala saw organisations and advocates for Africans in China lambast the show. The show aired on Thursday evening. "While supporters of the practice allege that blackface centres on empathy & realism, it’s difficult to disassociate it from a long history of minstrelsy & fixation on problematic caricatures," Black China Caucus, an activist group, said on Twitter. "Next year, we hope organizers decide to end this practice & hire some of thousands of Black people living in many parts of China."

Chinese New Year gala show sparks racism controversy

The UK media watchdog imposed a fine of 50,000 pounds on Khalsa Television Ltd for airing a music video and a discussion program which was an indirect call for British Sikhs to commit acts of violence. The telecast also had a terror reference.

The Office of Communications or Ofcom issued the order on Friday (February 12). The order was passed based on Ofcom's observations that dated back to February and November 2019.

Ofcom has asked Khalsa TV to not telecast the content found to be breaching its rules and guidelines. It has also asked the channel to broadcast a statement of Ofcom's findings on a date and in a form to be determined by the watchdog.

The order states that out of 50,000 pounds, 20,000 are for airing the music video while 30,000 are for airing the discussion programme.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-economy-suffers-worst-annual-slump-since-the-great-frost-of-1709-363249">British economy suffers worst annual slump since the Great Frost of 1709</a>

On July 4, 7, and 9 in 2018, KTV broadcast a music video for a song called 'Bagga and Shera'. Following its investigation, Ofcom found that the music video was an indirect call to action for Sikhs living in the UK to commit violence, up to and including murder. The discussion programme in question was aired live on March 30, 2019, as 'Panthak Masle'.

“Ofcom has imposed financial penalties of 20,000 pounds and 30,000 pounds on Khalsa Television Limited in relation to its service KTV for failing to comply with our broadcasting rules. The 20,000 pounds penalty relates to a music video. The 30,000 pounds penalty relates to a discussion programme,” the Ofcom decision states.

“Ofcom also found that it included a reference to the proscribed terrorist organisation the Babbar Khalsa, and which in our view could be taken as legitimising it and normalising its aims and actions in the eyes of viewers,” it notes.

The media watchdog conducted the investigation after it received complaints about Khalsa TV's broadcasts.

(With PTI inputs)

The UK media watchdog imposed a fine of 50,000 pounds on Khalsa Television Ltd for airing a music video and a discussion program which was an indirect call for British Sikhs to commit acts of violence.

The UK media watchdog imposed a fine of 50,000 pounds on Khalsa Television Ltd for airing a music video and a discussion program which was an indirect call for British Sikhs to commit acts of violence. The telecast also had a terror reference. The Office of Communications or Ofcom issued the order on Friday (February 12). The order was passed based on Ofcom's observations that dated back to February and November 2019. Ofcom has asked Khalsa TV to not telecast the content found to be breaching its rules and guidelines. It has also asked the channel to broadcast a statement of Ofcom's findings on a date and in a form to be determined by the watchdog. The order states that out of 50,000 pounds, 20,000 are for airing the music video while 30,000 are for airing the discussion programme. Also Read | British economy suffers worst annual slump since the Great Frost of 1709 On July 4, 7, and 9 in 2018, KTV broadcast a music video for a song called 'Bagga and Shera'. Following its investigation, Ofcom found that the music video was an indirect call to action for Sikhs living in the UK to commit violence, up to and including murder. The discussion programme in question was aired live on March 30, 2019, as 'Panthak Masle'. “Ofcom has imposed financial penalties of 20,000 pounds and 30,000 pounds on Khalsa Television Limited in relation to its service KTV for failing to comply with our broadcasting rules. The 20,000 pounds penalty relates to a music video. The 30,000 pounds penalty relates to a discussion programme,” the Ofcom decision states. “Ofcom also found that it included a reference to the proscribed terrorist organisation the Babbar Khalsa, and which in our view could be taken as legitimising it and normalising its aims and actions in the eyes of viewers,” it notes. The media watchdog conducted the investigation after it received complaints about Khalsa TV's broadcasts. (With PTI inputs)

UK media watchdog imposes 50 thousand pound fine on Khalsa TV

Mario Draghi, former European Central Bank chief on Friday formally accepted Italy's prime ministerial post. He will now lead the government set to&nbsp;replace Giuseppe Conte's centre-left coalition that collapsed a month ago. Draghi, the 73-year-old economist, spoke with Italy President Sergio Mattarella and spoke only to list the names of his ministers, a mix of politicians and technocrats. Draghi will return to the presidential palace at midday on Saturday to be formally sworn in, a spokesman for Mattarella said.

The senior deputy governor of Bank of Italy, Daniele Franco, was named as the new economy minister, while Roberto Speranza and Luigi Di Maio stay on at health and foreign affairs, respectively.

Draghi will take the reins when Italy has not fully recovered from the blow of coronavirus pandemic.

More than 93,000 people with coronavirus have died in Italy since it became the first European country to face the full force of the pandemic one year ago, and the toll is still rising by the hundreds each day.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-spare-turkey-from-tax-blacklist-sources-say-363228">EU to spare Turkey from tax blacklist, sources say</a>

Shutdowns and coronavirus restrictions have plunged Italy, eurozone's third-largest economy into its worst recession since second world war. More than 420,000 people have lost their jobs.

Coalition, for now?

President Sergio Mattarella asked Draghi to form a new government on February 3, and the respected economist has spent the last nine days assembling the widest possible majority in parliament.

Almost all the main parties are behind him, from leftists to Matteo Salvini's far-right League, and including the populist Five Star Movement (M5S), the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and Italia Viva, who shared power before.

Draghi was expected to present a list of ministers to Mattarella, before being formally sworn in on Saturday.

M5S, the biggest party in parliament which began life as an anti-establishment movement, was split over whether to support a government led by an unelected technocrat.

But in an online vote, members backed Draghi by 59 per cent, after it claimed to have secured the promise to set up a new super-ministry for "ecological transition".

Uphill challenges

Italy has high hopes for its new leader, dubbed "Super Mario" after vowing to do "whatever it takes" to save the euro single currency during the 2010s debt crisis.&nbsp;

His arrival was greeted with delight by the financial markets, and Italy's borrowing costs dropped to a historic low this week.

But "it is difficult to overstate the scale of the challenges that Draghi and Italy face", said Luigi Scazzieri, of the Centre for European Reform.

The economy shrank by a staggering 8.9 per cent last year, while Covid-19 remains rife and restrictions including a night curfew and the closure of bars and restaurants in the evening remain in place.

(With AFP inputs)

Mario Draghi, former European Central Bank chief on Friday formally accepted Italy's prime ministerial post. He will now lead the government set to replace Giuseppe Conte's centre-left coalition that collapsed a month ago.

Mario Draghi, former European Central Bank chief on Friday formally accepted Italy's prime ministerial post. He will now lead the government set to replace Giuseppe Conte's centre-left coalition that collapsed a month ago. Draghi, the 73-year-old economist, spoke with Italy President Sergio Mattarella and spoke only to list the names of his ministers, a mix of politicians and technocrats. Draghi will return to the presidential palace at midday on Saturday to be formally sworn in, a spokesman for Mattarella said. The senior deputy governor of Bank of Italy, Daniele Franco, was named as the new economy minister, while Roberto Speranza and Luigi Di Maio stay on at health and foreign affairs, respectively. Draghi will take the reins when Italy has not fully recovered from the blow of coronavirus pandemic. More than 93,000 people with coronavirus have died in Italy since it became the first European country to face the full force of the pandemic one year ago, and the toll is still rising by the hundreds each day. Also Read | EU to spare Turkey from tax blacklist, sources say Shutdowns and coronavirus restrictions have plunged Italy, eurozone's third-largest economy into its worst recession since second world war. More than 420,000 people have lost their jobs. Coalition, for now? President Sergio Mattarella asked Draghi to form a new government on February 3, and the respected economist has spent the last nine days assembling the widest possible majority in parliament. Almost all the main parties are behind him, from leftists to Matteo Salvini's far-right League, and including the populist Five Star Movement (M5S), the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and Italia Viva, who shared power before. Draghi was expected to present a list of ministers to Mattarella, before being formally sworn in on Saturday. M5S, the biggest party in parliament which began life as an anti-establishment movement, was split over whether to support a government led by an unelected technocrat. But in an online vote, members backed Draghi by 59 per cent, after it claimed to have secured the promise to set up a new super-ministry for "ecological transition". Uphill challenges Italy has high hopes for its new leader, dubbed "Super Mario" after vowing to do "whatever it takes" to save the euro single currency during the 2010s debt crisis. His arrival was greeted with delight by the financial markets, and Italy's borrowing costs dropped to a historic low this week. But "it is difficult to overstate the scale of the challenges that Draghi and Italy face", said Luigi Scazzieri, of the Centre for European Reform. The economy shrank by a staggering 8.9 per cent last year, while Covid-19 remains rife and restrictions including a night curfew and the closure of bars and restaurants in the evening remain in place. (With AFP inputs)

Mario Draghi formally accepts Italy's prime ministerial post

London and UK are in the grips of heavy winter, with Storm Darcy bringing the mercury down to -20C in some parts of the country. The extreme freeze has had a marked effect in London as large parts of river Thames have frozen for the first time since 1963. London has been experiencing sub-zero temperatures. UK experienced coldest night in 25 years on Friday.

Even in the face of harsh winter, Thames has been not given to freezing usually. And it is exactly why the freeze this time is creating so much of buzz and excitement. Images of frozen surface of the Thames in Teddington (southwest London) are doing rounds on social media. Spokesperson for Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) joked that they would have to use icebreakers in order to abe able to operate lifeboats in the Thames.

Extreme cold has had effect on transport around London. Train services have had to be cancelled. Travelling by roads has become dangerous due to heavy snow deposits.

It was a regular occurrence for the Thames to freeze during winters centuries ago. It was during this time the 'frost fairs' would be held on the ice. It was so thick that even elephants could walk across the ice sheet. Last of such fairs was held in the year 1814.

London and UK are in the grips of heavy winter, with Storm Darcy bringing the mercury down to -20C in some parts of the country. The extreme freeze has had a marked effect in London as large parts of river Thames have frozen for the first time since 1963.

London and UK are in the grips of heavy winter, with Storm Darcy bringing the mercury down to -20C in some parts of the country. The extreme freeze has had a marked effect in London as large parts of river Thames have frozen for the first time since 1963. London has been experiencing sub-zero temperatures. UK experienced coldest night in 25 years on Friday. Even in the face of harsh winter, Thames has been not given to freezing usually. And it is exactly why the freeze this time is creating so much of buzz and excitement. Images of frozen surface of the Thames in Teddington (southwest London) are doing rounds on social media. Spokesperson for Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) joked that they would have to use icebreakers in order to abe able to operate lifeboats in the Thames. Extreme cold has had effect on transport around London. Train services have had to be cancelled. Travelling by roads has become dangerous due to heavy snow deposits. It was a regular occurrence for the Thames to freeze during winters centuries ago. It was during this time the 'frost fairs' would be held on the ice. It was so thick that even elephants could walk across the ice sheet. Last of such fairs was held in the year 1814.

Parts of river Thames freeze for first time in 60 years

Remains of French and Russian soldiers who died in a battle during the Napoleonic war will be laid to rest on Saturday. The soldiers squared off with each other during Napoleon's retreat from Moscow, that heralded the disastrous collapse of his Russian campaign. A ceremony near the city of Smolensk will see the re-burial of 126 people killed in one of the bloodiest battles of Napoleon's Russian campaign. This battle was fought in 1812.

Descendants of 19th-century Russian and French military leaders, as well as dozens of re-enactors, are expected to attend the burial in Vyazma, a town more than 200 kilometres (120 miles) west of Moscow.

Remains of 120 soldiers, three women and three teenagers were discovered in a mass grave by archaeologists from both countries in 2019.

The dig was led by Pierre Malinowski, the Kremlin-connected head of the Foundation for the Development of Russian-French Historic Initiatives.

The three women are believed to be so-called "vivandieres", who provided first aid and kept canteens in the French army, while the three adolescents are believed to have been drummers.

All are thought to have fallen during the Battle of Vyazma on November 3, 1812 at the beginning of the French army's retreat from Moscow and before the horrific crossing of the Berezina River.

The ceremony, complete with a gun salute, will mark a rare moment of unity between Russia and Europe at a time of heightened tensions over a litany of issues including the Kremlin's increasingly harsh crackdown on political opposition.

Napoleon's dreams of conquering the world fell apart after he appeared to bite more than he could chew in the Russian campaign. The Emporer who had brought Europe to its knees played a huge gamble in an attempt to win Russia, only to be defeated by the vast country and its unforgiving winter.

(With AFP inputs)

Remains of French and Russian soldiers who died in a battle during the Napoleonic war will be laid to rest on Saturday. The soldiers squared off with each other during Napoleon's retreat from Moscow, that heralded the disastrous collapse of his Russian campaign.

Remains of French and Russian soldiers who died in a battle during the Napoleonic war will be laid to rest on Saturday. The soldiers squared off with each other during Napoleon's retreat from Moscow, that heralded the disastrous collapse of his Russian campaign. A ceremony near the city of Smolensk will see the re-burial of 126 people killed in one of the bloodiest battles of Napoleon's Russian campaign. This battle was fought in 1812. Descendants of 19th-century Russian and French military leaders, as well as dozens of re-enactors, are expected to attend the burial in Vyazma, a town more than 200 kilometres (120 miles) west of Moscow. Remains of 120 soldiers, three women and three teenagers were discovered in a mass grave by archaeologists from both countries in 2019. The dig was led by Pierre Malinowski, the Kremlin-connected head of the Foundation for the Development of Russian-French Historic Initiatives. The three women are believed to be so-called "vivandieres", who provided first aid and kept canteens in the French army, while the three adolescents are believed to have been drummers. All are thought to have fallen during the Battle of Vyazma on November 3, 1812 at the beginning of the French army's retreat from Moscow and before the horrific crossing of the Berezina River. The ceremony, complete with a gun salute, will mark a rare moment of unity between Russia and Europe at a time of heightened tensions over a litany of issues including the Kremlin's increasingly harsh crackdown on political opposition. Napoleon's dreams of conquering the world fell apart after he appeared to bite more than he could chew in the Russian campaign. The Emporer who had brought Europe to its knees played a huge gamble in an attempt to win Russia, only to be defeated by the vast country and its unforgiving winter. (With AFP inputs)

France and Russia to bury soldiers 200 years after Napoleonic war

China has refused to provide WHO, the raw COVID-19 data on early cases, said Wall Street Journal on Friday. The report cited WHO investigators is said spoke of heated exchange over lack of detail.&nbsp;

World Health Organisation (WHO) concluded a month-long investigation into origin of COVID-19 in China. The team travelled to various parts of the country including the wet market in Wuhan, where the virus is understood to have caused the first outbreak.

As per the news report, the investigators were provided info about the analysis carried out by Chinese experts. They also provided aggregated data and retrospective analysis based on medical records made in the months preceding the viral outbreak. However, when WHO team asked for raw, personalised data, the request was denied. The raw data may have enabled WHO experts to carry out their own analysis. But it was not possible.

Thoughout WHO team's visit to China, authorities had kept close watch on the members as they visited various parts of the country. Information about their itinerary and immediate findings was not readily forthcoming. Many times, the media had to depend on individual tweets made by team members.

China has repeatedly denied that coronavirus had an origin in the country. The assertive claims have come in spite of country having been the first one to have a massive outbreak.

China has refused to provide WHO, the raw COVID-19 data on early cases, said Wall Street Journal on Friday. The report cited WHO investigators is said spoke of heated exchange over lack of detail.

China has refused to provide WHO, the raw COVID-19 data on early cases, said Wall Street Journal on Friday. The report cited WHO investigators is said spoke of heated exchange over lack of detail. World Health Organisation (WHO) concluded a month-long investigation into origin of COVID-19 in China. The team travelled to various parts of the country including the wet market in Wuhan, where the virus is understood to have caused the first outbreak. As per the news report, the investigators were provided info about the analysis carried out by Chinese experts. They also provided aggregated data and retrospective analysis based on medical records made in the months preceding the viral outbreak. However, when WHO team asked for raw, personalised data, the request was denied. The raw data may have enabled WHO experts to carry out their own analysis. But it was not possible. Thoughout WHO team's visit to China, authorities had kept close watch on the members as they visited various parts of the country. Information about their itinerary and immediate findings was not readily forthcoming. Many times, the media had to depend on individual tweets made by team members. China has repeatedly denied that coronavirus had an origin in the country. The assertive claims have come in spite of country having been the first one to have a massive outbreak.

China refused WHO raw COVID-19 data on early cases: Report 

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.

Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country.

Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?"

Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022.

"The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party.

"The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said.

As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said.

Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad".

Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do".

"Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said.

"Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers."

In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names.

Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders."

Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies.

"SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time."

Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi`s "Hum do, Hamare do" jibe with the same slogan. She also accused him of playing a role like a "doomsday man" by insulting the legislative authority like the PM, former PM, President and even the Lok Sabha chair. Delivering her final speech on the discussion on Union Budget 2021-2022 in the Lok Sabha, the Finance Minister took on Gandhi saying he is probably becoming the "doomsday man" of India, building "fake narratives" that "demean" the country. Sitharaman`s "doomsday" remark came in an obvious indication when she mentioned without taking Rahul`s name that "there is a `doomsday man` who said two days ago that he will not speak on Budget. What kind of role he wants to play?" Gandhi on Thursday spoke the same line in the Lok Sabha while speaking on the farm laws when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President`s Address was already over and he was given time to participate in the ongoing debate on Union Budget 2021-2022. "The leader and its party continuously abusing the legislative by hitting the dignity of PM, former PM, President and the Lok Sabha chair. Why do you always choose to insult the legislative authority?...Abuse and then seek apology, this is the tendency of the party. "The party`s position in Rajya Sabha is different and here in Lok Sabha they show another position. The party is continuously spreading fake narrative. The party follows two tendencies -- create institution, use it for own benefit; create disturbance," Sitharaman said. As Sitharaman was replying to the discussion on the Union Budget, she posed 10 questions about Rahul Gandhi`s speech which was mainly on the farmers` protest, not Union Budget 2021, the finance minister said. Referring to Gandhi`s `Hum do, Hamare do` comment which Gandhi had made in the Lok Sabha to attack the Central government on Thursday over the farm laws, the Minister used the same slogan, mentioning if the party blames the government it should also think about how it is taking care of "daughter and damad". Sitharaman said though the Congress comes up with "very good schemes", it lacks the will to use those schemes properly as those schemes turn into devices to only favour "cronies" and "hum do hamare do". "Hum do, Hamare do` is that we are two people taking care of the party, and there are two other people who take care of daughter and damad," Sitharaman said, adding "we don`t do that as Rs 10,000 is given to 50 lakh street traders as working capital for one year and they are not anyone`s cronies," Sitharaman said. "Take the credit of giving birth to MNREGA. But also take credit for mismanaging it, for giving money to ghost workers." In his remarks against the government, Gandhi had said, "Years ago there was a family planning slogan - Hum do, Hamare do (we two and our two), but just like corona has returned in another form, this slogan too has made a comeback. Today, four people run the country - Hum do, Hamare do," Gandhi had said without taking any names. Continuing her attack, Sitharaman questioned, "Where are the cronies? They are hiding probably in the shadow of that party which has been rejected by the people. The shadows who were invited to even develop a port. They invited, no open tenders, no global tenders." Mentioning PM SVANidhi Yojana, the Minister said she mentions it for those who are constantly accusing the government of dealing with cronies. "SVANidhi doesn`t go to cronies. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties -- Rajasthan, Haryana once upon a time." Addressing Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Sitharaman said, "Kerala invited one crony to develop a port -- no bidding, just invitation. Because Kerala has no damad, Damad is here. Damads get land in states which are governed by some parties."

FM Sitharaman calls Rahul Gandhi a 'doomsday man'

Asteroids are beautiful things as long as they put on a stellar show while burning to dust in Earth's atmosphere. Asteroids that are a bit bigger leave space rocks on Earths surface for scientists to study. Anything bigger than that, well, ask dinosaurs what happens when such a thing strikes the Earth.

An asteroid by the name of Apophis is approaching our home planet. Apophis is the Egyptian God of chaos and darkness. Anything named after such a deity is surely not going to be anything sweet. On top of it, it's an asteroid.

Apophis, known officially as &nbsp;99942 Apophis (2004 MN4) is three football-fields wide. It may appear to be small given how huge Earth is. But remember, asteroids zap around in space at speeds of thousands of kms an hour. And that's why if any of the astroids strikes the Earth, the explosion would be comparable to one caused by several exploding atomic bombs.

Apophis is going to have a very close flyby past Earth in 2029. At its closest point, Apophis will be at an altitude of some of our artificial satellites. Previously, Apophis had a 3 per cent chance of hitting the Earth. This again may sound pretty small a number. But for a space body as large as Apophis, this is a terrifying figure.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/potentially-hazardous-largest-known-asteroid-to-fly-past-earth-in-2021-362083">'Potentially hazardous': Largest known asteroid to fly past Earth in 2021</a>

Fortunately, scientists have now able to determine that Apophis will not hit the Earth 2029.

But while 2029 seems a bit away, it may scare you to know that another close approach is scheduled to take place this year. Next month to be precise.

Apophis will fly by Earth on March 5, 2021. This time though it will be at a much greater distance away from Earth than its approach scheduled to take place in 2029.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/life-on-mars-study-gives-fresh-evidence-to-back-the-claim-362767">Life on Mars? Study gives fresh evidence to back the claim</a>

But both of these events are going to provide scientists with an opportunity to study the trajectory and motion of Apophis.&nbsp;

Why the study?

Because Apophis will make another close call to Earth in the year 2068 and it will give all of us relief if know 100 per cent that it will not strike the Earth at that time.

Asteroids are beautiful things as long as they put on a stellar show while burning to dust in Earth's atmosphere. Asteroids that are a bit bigger leave space rocks on Earths surface for scientists to study.

Asteroids are beautiful things as long as they put on a stellar show while burning to dust in Earth's atmosphere. Asteroids that are a bit bigger leave space rocks on Earths surface for scientists to study. Anything bigger than that, well, ask dinosaurs what happens when such a thing strikes the Earth. An asteroid by the name of Apophis is approaching our home planet. Apophis is the Egyptian God of chaos and darkness. Anything named after such a deity is surely not going to be anything sweet. On top of it, it's an asteroid. Apophis, known officially as 99942 Apophis (2004 MN4) is three football-fields wide. It may appear to be small given how huge Earth is. But remember, asteroids zap around in space at speeds of thousands of kms an hour. And that's why if any of the astroids strikes the Earth, the explosion would be comparable to one caused by several exploding atomic bombs. Apophis is going to have a very close flyby past Earth in 2029. At its closest point, Apophis will be at an altitude of some of our artificial satellites. Previously, Apophis had a 3 per cent chance of hitting the Earth. This again may sound pretty small a number. But for a space body as large as Apophis, this is a terrifying figure. Also Read | 'Potentially hazardous': Largest known asteroid to fly past Earth in 2021 Fortunately, scientists have now able to determine that Apophis will not hit the Earth 2029. But while 2029 seems a bit away, it may scare you to know that another close approach is scheduled to take place this year. Next month to be precise. Apophis will fly by Earth on March 5, 2021. This time though it will be at a much greater distance away from Earth than its approach scheduled to take place in 2029. Also Read | Life on Mars? Study gives fresh evidence to back the claim But both of these events are going to provide scientists with an opportunity to study the trajectory and motion of Apophis. Why the study? Because Apophis will make another close call to Earth in the year 2068 and it will give all of us relief if know 100 per cent that it will not strike the Earth at that time.

Asteroid Apophis approaches Earth, scientists have their eyes set

Kyaw Tint Swe close aide to ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was detained on Thursday, said a party official. Myanmar is witnessing fresh wave of arrests following the military coup on February 1. Kyi Toe, an information committee member of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD), said Kyaw Tint Swe and four other people linked to the previous government had been taken from their homes overnight, and the top leadership of the former electoral commission had all been arrested.

NLD had won the November 2020 election by a landslide. Military claims that there was widespread fraud in the elections. Myanmar's electoral commission had rejected those claims.

Protesters gathered across the country for a sixth straight day on Thursday.

Hundreds of workers lined a road in the capital Naypyitaw in support of the civil disobedience movement, chanting anti-junta slogans and carrying placards supporting Suu Kyi.

In line with the creative ethos of recent demonstrations where some protesters have worn ball gowns and fancy dress, rallies in Yangon included men and boys dressed in short skirts. "We don't take off our skirt until we get democracy back," one sign read.

US Sanctions

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday approved an executive order for sanctions on those who were responsible for the coup in Myanmar. He has demanded that Myanmar's generals give up power and civilian leaders be freed.

Washington would identify the first round of targets this week and was taking steps to prevent the generals in Myanmar, also known as Burma, having access to $1 billion in Myanmar government funds held in the United States.

"We're also going to impose strong exports controls. We're freezing U.S. assets that benefit the Burmese government while maintaining our support for health care, civil society groups, and other areas that benefit the people of Burma directly," Biden said at the White House.

Washington is likely to target coup leader Min Aung Hlaing and other top generals who are already under U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019 over abuses against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities.

(With Reuters inputs)

Kyaw Tint Swe close aide to ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was detained on Thursday, said a party official. Myanmar is witnessing fresh wave of arrests following the military coup on February 1.

Kyaw Tint Swe close aide to ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was detained on Thursday, said a party official. Myanmar is witnessing fresh wave of arrests following the military coup on February 1. Kyi Toe, an information committee member of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD), said Kyaw Tint Swe and four other people linked to the previous government had been taken from their homes overnight, and the top leadership of the former electoral commission had all been arrested. NLD had won the November 2020 election by a landslide. Military claims that there was widespread fraud in the elections. Myanmar's electoral commission had rejected those claims. Protesters gathered across the country for a sixth straight day on Thursday. Hundreds of workers lined a road in the capital Naypyitaw in support of the civil disobedience movement, chanting anti-junta slogans and carrying placards supporting Suu Kyi. In line with the creative ethos of recent demonstrations where some protesters have worn ball gowns and fancy dress, rallies in Yangon included men and boys dressed in short skirts. "We don't take off our skirt until we get democracy back," one sign read. US Sanctions US President Joe Biden on Wednesday approved an executive order for sanctions on those who were responsible for the coup in Myanmar. He has demanded that Myanmar's generals give up power and civilian leaders be freed. Washington would identify the first round of targets this week and was taking steps to prevent the generals in Myanmar, also known as Burma, having access to $1 billion in Myanmar government funds held in the United States. "We're also going to impose strong exports controls. We're freezing U.S. assets that benefit the Burmese government while maintaining our support for health care, civil society groups, and other areas that benefit the people of Burma directly," Biden said at the White House. Washington is likely to target coup leader Min Aung Hlaing and other top generals who are already under U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019 over abuses against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities. (With Reuters inputs)

Myanmar: Suu Kyi close aide detained, fresh wave of arrests

Twitter on Wednesday said that ban on former US President Donald Trump was permanent and it did not matter whether he ran for the post of president again. A senior executive of Twitter stressed that if anyone was removed from platform, Twitter did not allow him to come back. Twitter's Chief Financial Officer Ned Segel said this while he was being interviewed on CNBC.

He was asked whether Donald Trump's Twitter privileges could be restored if he came back to power.

“The way our policies work, when you’re removed from the platform, you’re removed from the platform,” Segal was quoted as saying.

“Whether you’re a commentator, you’re a CFO, or you are a former or current public official. Remember, our policies are designed to make sure that people are not inciting violence, and if anybody does that, we have to remove them from the service and our policies don’t allow people to come back,” he added during his interview on CNBC.

US Senate is holding trial for Donald Trump impeachment. Trump is the only American president to be impeached twice.&nbsp;

A prolific tweeter, Trump faced criticism during his presidency for what was called policy-making on Twitter. His tweets were often at odds with public stance taken by departments of his own administration.

The breaking point came when Trump supporters attacked US Capitol building on January 6. Trump was criticised for not making appeals for calm hours after the violence began. He was soon permanently banned by Twitter, Facebook and many other social media platforms.

Twitter on Wednesday said that ban on former US President Donald Trump was permanent and it did not matter whether he ran for the post of president again. A senior executive of Twitter stressed that if anyone was removed from platform, Twitter did not allow him to come back.

Twitter on Wednesday said that ban on former US President Donald Trump was permanent and it did not matter whether he ran for the post of president again. A senior executive of Twitter stressed that if anyone was removed from platform, Twitter did not allow him to come back. Twitter's Chief Financial Officer Ned Segel said this while he was being interviewed on CNBC. He was asked whether Donald Trump's Twitter privileges could be restored if he came back to power. “The way our policies work, when you’re removed from the platform, you’re removed from the platform,” Segal was quoted as saying. “Whether you’re a commentator, you’re a CFO, or you are a former or current public official. Remember, our policies are designed to make sure that people are not inciting violence, and if anybody does that, we have to remove them from the service and our policies don’t allow people to come back,” he added during his interview on CNBC. US Senate is holding trial for Donald Trump impeachment. Trump is the only American president to be impeached twice. A prolific tweeter, Trump faced criticism during his presidency for what was called policy-making on Twitter. His tweets were often at odds with public stance taken by departments of his own administration. The breaking point came when Trump supporters attacked US Capitol building on January 6. Trump was criticised for not making appeals for calm hours after the violence began. He was soon permanently banned by Twitter, Facebook and many other social media platforms.

Twitter: Trump ban permanent, no matter if he runs for president again

Prominent Saudi Arabian women's rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul was released from prison after nearly three years behind bars, said her family on Wednesday. Hathloul was detained in May 2018. She was sentenced to six years in prison in December that year. UN rights experts had called charges against her "spurious". She still faces a five-year travel ban ordered by the court

"Loujain is at home !!!!!!" her sister Lina tweeted.

Another sister, Alia, said Hathloul was at their parents' home in Saudi Arabia. She posted a picture of Hathloul smiling in a garden, looking much thinner and with grey streaks in her hair.

Hathloul had campaigned for women's right to drive and to end Saudi's male guardianship system. Rights groups and her family say that she was subjected to abuse, including electric shocks, waterboarding, flogging and sexual assault. Saudi authorities have denied the allegations. A court dismissed claims of torture saying evidence was lacking.

On Wednesday, Amnesty International said that Saudi Arabia should bring to justice "those responsible for her torture". It has also urged the authorities to ensure that no punitive measures like travel ban against Hathloul.

Saudi officials have not commented on her conviction or sentencing. There was no immediate comment on her release.

US President Joe Biden welcomed Loujain al-Hathloul's release from prison.

"Releasing her was the right thing to do," Biden said of Hathloul.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the development as well.

"But I think it is important that others who are in the same condition as her, who have been jailed for the same reasons as her, also be released and that charges be dropped against them," said Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

Hathloul, detained along with several other women's rights activists, was convicted on charges including seeking to change the Saudi political system and harming national unity.

Saudi Arabia's rights record came under global scrutiny after the 2018 murder of prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, which tarnished Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's image. The prince denied ordering the killing.

Agnes Callamard, the independent U.N. rights investigator who led an international probe into Khashoggi's murder, welcomed Hathloul's release but said in a Twitter post that "the cruelty" of Saudi rulers that "violated her most basic right to physical and mental integrity" should not be forgotten.

(With Reuters inputs)

Prominent Saudi Arabian women's rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul was released from prison after nearly three years behind bars, said her family on Wednesday. Hathloul was detained in May 2018.

Prominent Saudi Arabian women's rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul was released from prison after nearly three years behind bars, said her family on Wednesday. Hathloul was detained in May 2018. She was sentenced to six years in prison in December that year. UN rights experts had called charges against her "spurious". She still faces a five-year travel ban ordered by the court "Loujain is at home !!!!!!" her sister Lina tweeted. Another sister, Alia, said Hathloul was at their parents' home in Saudi Arabia. She posted a picture of Hathloul smiling in a garden, looking much thinner and with grey streaks in her hair. Hathloul had campaigned for women's right to drive and to end Saudi's male guardianship system. Rights groups and her family say that she was subjected to abuse, including electric shocks, waterboarding, flogging and sexual assault. Saudi authorities have denied the allegations. A court dismissed claims of torture saying evidence was lacking. On Wednesday, Amnesty International said that Saudi Arabia should bring to justice "those responsible for her torture". It has also urged the authorities to ensure that no punitive measures like travel ban against Hathloul. Saudi officials have not commented on her conviction or sentencing. There was no immediate comment on her release. US President Joe Biden welcomed Loujain al-Hathloul's release from prison. "Releasing her was the right thing to do," Biden said of Hathloul. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the development as well. "But I think it is important that others who are in the same condition as her, who have been jailed for the same reasons as her, also be released and that charges be dropped against them," said Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. Hathloul, detained along with several other women's rights activists, was convicted on charges including seeking to change the Saudi political system and harming national unity. Saudi Arabia's rights record came under global scrutiny after the 2018 murder of prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, which tarnished Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's image. The prince denied ordering the killing. Agnes Callamard, the independent U.N. rights investigator who led an international probe into Khashoggi's murder, welcomed Hathloul's release but said in a Twitter post that "the cruelty" of Saudi rulers that "violated her most basic right to physical and mental integrity" should not be forgotten. (With Reuters inputs)

Saudi Arabian women's rights activist Hathloul freed from jail: Family

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