A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.The protestors vowed to continue with the agitation till acceptance of their demand.&nbsp;

The protests come at the time when Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is visiting PoK. Bajwa has inaugurated state-of-the-art Software Technology Park, an initiative of the Special Communication Organisation (SCO), in Gilgit on Tuesday.

The protest was called by Aseeran-i-Hunza Rihaee Committee, a body formed to push for the release of the incarcerated leaders.About 500 male and female political activists from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistani Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), religious and local organisations, and family members of the prisoners gathered at College Chowk in Aliabad Hunza, blocking the Karakoram HighwayThe protesters were holding placards inscribed with different slogans, calling for giving justice to the jailed people.&nbsp;

They also chanted the slogan as `Free 14 sons of Hunza`.The protesters said Baba Jan and 13 other people had been sentenced to life imprisonment in 2011 for what they said raising voice for the rights of victims of the Attabad lake disaster.They said it was astonishing that the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) charges had been slapped against the people.&nbsp;

Baba Jan is serving a ninety-year sentence which is based on trumped-up charges. He is an activist who challenged the then Pakistani administration which was essentially working against the people of Gilgit Baltistan.The Pakistan establishment has used the draconian schedule IV of the Anti-Terrorism Act in Gilgit Baltistan to muzzle the reasonable voices that resist its repression.

It has framed dozens under the law not only to give itself a free rein to rule the region but also to send a threatening message to all sections of the societyPuppet governments in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, which largely operate at the command of the feudal elite of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, have committed systematic human rights violations to suppress the people of the region and keep them marginalised.

Pakistan makes huge claims at international platforms about working for the welfare of Kashmiri people but the ground reality reeks of a rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in the region.

A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.

A protest was organised in Aliabad Hunza of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with people demanding the release of 14 local men, including political leader Baba Jan, who were jailed in 2011 for `inciting` people against the government.The protestors vowed to continue with the agitation till acceptance of their demand. The protests come at the time when Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is visiting PoK. Bajwa has inaugurated state-of-the-art Software Technology Park, an initiative of the Special Communication Organisation (SCO), in Gilgit on Tuesday. The protest was called by Aseeran-i-Hunza Rihaee Committee, a body formed to push for the release of the incarcerated leaders.About 500 male and female political activists from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistani Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), religious and local organisations, and family members of the prisoners gathered at College Chowk in Aliabad Hunza, blocking the Karakoram HighwayThe protesters were holding placards inscribed with different slogans, calling for giving justice to the jailed people. They also chanted the slogan as `Free 14 sons of Hunza`.The protesters said Baba Jan and 13 other people had been sentenced to life imprisonment in 2011 for what they said raising voice for the rights of victims of the Attabad lake disaster.They said it was astonishing that the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) charges had been slapped against the people. Baba Jan is serving a ninety-year sentence which is based on trumped-up charges. He is an activist who challenged the then Pakistani administration which was essentially working against the people of Gilgit Baltistan.The Pakistan establishment has used the draconian schedule IV of the Anti-Terrorism Act in Gilgit Baltistan to muzzle the reasonable voices that resist its repression. It has framed dozens under the law not only to give itself a free rein to rule the region but also to send a threatening message to all sections of the societyPuppet governments in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad, which largely operate at the command of the feudal elite of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, have committed systematic human rights violations to suppress the people of the region and keep them marginalised. Pakistan makes huge claims at international platforms about working for the welfare of Kashmiri people but the ground reality reeks of a rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in the region.

Amid Pakistan Army chief's visit to PoK, people take to streets demanding release of locals

Coronavirus has had&nbsp;economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions.&nbsp;

Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment&nbsp;for the eligible couples.

Singapore has one of the lowest birth rates in the world. And the country has not had much success in boosting it.

Singapore's Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was quoted by the BBC to say that the government had received reports about couples postponing plans of parenthood due to adverse financial situation caused by coronavirus pandemic.

Singapore currently pays upto USD 7330 in benefits under its baby bonus system.

No announcement as to exact amount of the fresh benefits has been made and the deputy prime minister said that this will be announced at a later date.

BBC reported that Singapore's birth rate touched an 8-year low in 2018. The birth rate was 1.14 births per woman.

Coronavirus has had economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions. Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment for the eligible couples.

Coronavirus has had economic impact all over the world. It has hit everyone, wealthy and poor. It has made families change their plans and vital decisions. Now, out of worry that couples in Singapore were delaying parenthood due to financial stress caused by coronavirus pandemic, Singapore Government is offering on-off payment for the eligible couples. Singapore has one of the lowest birth rates in the world. And the country has not had much success in boosting it. Singapore's Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was quoted by the BBC to say that the government had received reports about couples postponing plans of parenthood due to adverse financial situation caused by coronavirus pandemic. Singapore currently pays upto USD 7330 in benefits under its baby bonus system. No announcement as to exact amount of the fresh benefits has been made and the deputy prime minister said that this will be announced at a later date. BBC reported that Singapore's birth rate touched an 8-year low in 2018. The birth rate was 1.14 births per woman.

Singapore to give 'baby bonus' for birth in times of the pandemic

Even as it moved to hit Cancun in Mexico, Hurricane Delta weakened to a category 3 hurricane on Wednesday. The US National Hurricane Center released the information. The hurricane is about 130 km east-south east of Cozumel, Mexico. In spite of its weakening, Hurricane Delta still packs a punch at maximum sustained winds of 195 kph. It is expected to strenthen again when it moves over the southern Gulf of Mexico Wednesday night and Thursday, the NHC said.

As authorities in Cancun prepared for the onslaught of Delta, shops were closed and tourists were evacuated from beach hotels.

One of the strongest hurricanes to threaten Cancun in years, Delta's arrival is a blow to Mexican efforts to revive tourism in the surrounding beach-lined state of Quintana Roo, where the industry has been battered by the coronavirus pandemic.

"I want to go home, this is crazy," said Dee Harris, a 29-year-old from Michigan who came to Cancun with his partner and had been due to leave before the storm led to the cancellation of their flight. "The vacation was good before this."

Delta is also disrupting the oil industry, with companies shutting down offshore production platforms and withdrawing workers.

Late on Tuesday, Delta was about 135 miles (217 km) east-southeast of the island of Cozumel, blowing maximum sustained winds of 130 miles per hour (209 kph), the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.

Barreling northwest relatively briskly at 16 mph (26 kph), Delta was expected to pass through Quintana Roo in 10-14 hours, state governor Carlos Joaquin said.

"Hopefully, that speed means it won't do us so much damage," Joaquin told Mexican radio.

Slow-moving hurricanes often do more destruction than those with faster lateral movement because they have more time to unleash their force on structures.

Delta is expected to lose some wind power over the peninsula before gathering strength again in the Gulf of Mexico.

On Tuesday, residents queued at supermarkets to stock up on provisions in anticipation of disruptions, while the state government readied shelters that need extra space due to coronavirus social-distancing requirements.

Officials ordered the evacuation of Cancun's hotel zone and other coastal areas, while shop workers boarded up windows.

A hurricane watch was in place from the beach town of Tulum westwards, including Cozumel.

Water levels could rise by up to 13 feet (4 m) over normal tide conditions due to Delta, the NHC said.

The Yucatan peninsula had already taken a hit at the weekend from Hurricane Gamma, a smaller storm that damaged property and forced restaurants and other attractions to close.

(With Reuters inputs)

Even as it moved to hit Cancun in Mexico, Hurricane Delta weakened to a category 3 hurricane on Wednesday. The US National Hurricane Center released the information.

Even as it moved to hit Cancun in Mexico, Hurricane Delta weakened to a category 3 hurricane on Wednesday. The US National Hurricane Center released the information. The hurricane is about 130 km east-south east of Cozumel, Mexico. In spite of its weakening, Hurricane Delta still packs a punch at maximum sustained winds of 195 kph. It is expected to strenthen again when it moves over the southern Gulf of Mexico Wednesday night and Thursday, the NHC said. As authorities in Cancun prepared for the onslaught of Delta, shops were closed and tourists were evacuated from beach hotels. One of the strongest hurricanes to threaten Cancun in years, Delta's arrival is a blow to Mexican efforts to revive tourism in the surrounding beach-lined state of Quintana Roo, where the industry has been battered by the coronavirus pandemic. "I want to go home, this is crazy," said Dee Harris, a 29-year-old from Michigan who came to Cancun with his partner and had been due to leave before the storm led to the cancellation of their flight. "The vacation was good before this." Delta is also disrupting the oil industry, with companies shutting down offshore production platforms and withdrawing workers. Late on Tuesday, Delta was about 135 miles (217 km) east-southeast of the island of Cozumel, blowing maximum sustained winds of 130 miles per hour (209 kph), the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. Barreling northwest relatively briskly at 16 mph (26 kph), Delta was expected to pass through Quintana Roo in 10-14 hours, state governor Carlos Joaquin said. "Hopefully, that speed means it won't do us so much damage," Joaquin told Mexican radio. Slow-moving hurricanes often do more destruction than those with faster lateral movement because they have more time to unleash their force on structures. Delta is expected to lose some wind power over the peninsula before gathering strength again in the Gulf of Mexico. On Tuesday, residents queued at supermarkets to stock up on provisions in anticipation of disruptions, while the state government readied shelters that need extra space due to coronavirus social-distancing requirements. Officials ordered the evacuation of Cancun's hotel zone and other coastal areas, while shop workers boarded up windows. A hurricane watch was in place from the beach town of Tulum westwards, including Cozumel. Water levels could rise by up to 13 feet (4 m) over normal tide conditions due to Delta, the NHC said. The Yucatan peninsula had already taken a hit at the weekend from Hurricane Gamma, a smaller storm that damaged property and forced restaurants and other attractions to close. (With Reuters inputs)

Hurricane Delta weakens into a category 3 hurricane

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets. This covers futures, options, exchange-traded notes and contracts-for-difference. Although analysts believe that the decision will not affect the actual sale of cryptocurrencies, the online trading platforms for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ripple and Ether among others are expected to get a hit.

UK's Financial Conduct Authority said that it has taken the decision to safeguard retail consumers as they are exposed to unexpected financial losses due to unregulated crypto-assets. Volatility and unreliable valuations add to retail consumers' woes.

The latest decision by the FCA came a year after it actually proposed such a ban. The authority took a review of the situation in its analysis that went on for a year.

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Soon after the decision of the FCA, shares in the online trading platform fell by 2-3 per cent.

Cryptocurrencies have attracted a lot of interest from investors all around the globe in recent years. According to an estimate, the cryptocurrency market is worth around USD 337 billion. It was worth USD 200 billion just 2 years ago.

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets.

Financial authority in the UK on Tuesday banned some cryptocurrency-based products in order to safeguard retail consumers. From next year, firms in UK will not be able to sell, market or distribute products that track prices of crypto-assets. This covers futures, options, exchange-traded notes and contracts-for-difference. Although analysts believe that the decision will not affect the actual sale of cryptocurrencies, the online trading platforms for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ripple and Ether among others are expected to get a hit. UK's Financial Conduct Authority said that it has taken the decision to safeguard retail consumers as they are exposed to unexpected financial losses due to unregulated crypto-assets. Volatility and unreliable valuations add to retail consumers' woes. The latest decision by the FCA came a year after it actually proposed such a ban. The authority took a review of the situation in its analysis that went on for a year. × Soon after the decision of the FCA, shares in the online trading platform fell by 2-3 per cent. Cryptocurrencies have attracted a lot of interest from investors all around the globe in recent years. According to an estimate, the cryptocurrency market is worth around USD 337 billion. It was worth USD 200 billion just 2 years ago.

Cryptocurrency products banned in UK after year-long review

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country.

"They (Sinovac Biotech Ltd) sent a letter to Bangladesh government seeking co-financing for performing phase-3 human trial," Abdul Mannan, the health division secretary of Bangladesh, was quoted as saying by The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest circulating English language newspaper.

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As per The Daily Star, Sinovac had made an agreement with Bangladesh saying that it would bear the cost of the phase-3 trials itself.

In a letter to Bangladesh dated September 24, Sinovac said that the trials would get delayed unless Bangladesh co-financed the efforts. No specific amount has been mentioned by Sinovac as yet

"It may take some time to reach a concrete decision on co-funding the vaccine trial . . . (but) Bangladesh government is sincerely thinking about the matter keeping in mind the issue of public benefits," Mannan said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-bangladesh-take-part-in-high-level-consultation-on-economic-partnership-331781">US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership</a>

Dr Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, the chief professor at Directorate General of Health Services said that Bangladesh government was positive about the proposal.

However, officials familiar with the fresh development said they received Sinovac's proposal seeking the co-funding on September 22.

Bangladesh continues to report a surge in the number of coronavirus cases, with the current infections number standing at 368,690. The total number of deaths due to the deadly virus stands at 5,348, local media reported.

(With PTI inputs)

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country.

Chinese drugmaker Sinovac, which is developing a COVID-19 vaccine has broken its promise to Bangladesh. Sinovac has told Bangladesh that it needs to co-finance the effort if it wanted phase-3 trials to take place in the country. "They (Sinovac Biotech Ltd) sent a letter to Bangladesh government seeking co-financing for performing phase-3 human trial," Abdul Mannan, the health division secretary of Bangladesh, was quoted as saying by The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest circulating English language newspaper. As per The Daily Star, Sinovac had made an agreement with Bangladesh saying that it would bear the cost of the phase-3 trials itself. In a letter to Bangladesh dated September 24, Sinovac said that the trials would get delayed unless Bangladesh co-financed the efforts. No specific amount has been mentioned by Sinovac as yet "It may take some time to reach a concrete decision on co-funding the vaccine trial . . . (but) Bangladesh government is sincerely thinking about the matter keeping in mind the issue of public benefits," Mannan said. Also Read: US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership Dr Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, the chief professor at Directorate General of Health Services said that Bangladesh government was positive about the proposal. However, officials familiar with the fresh development said they received Sinovac's proposal seeking the co-funding on September 22. Bangladesh continues to report a surge in the number of coronavirus cases, with the current infections number standing at 368,690. The total number of deaths due to the deadly virus stands at 5,348, local media reported. (With PTI inputs)

Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials

Sudanese leaders have found themselves divided over US precondition of normalising ties with Israel before Sudan could be removed from US list of states sponsoring terror. Sudan is under tremendous pressure from US to normalise ties with Israel. This is widely seen as Trump administration's attempt to win more brownie points before US Presidential Elections on November 3.

Sudan, an Arab country, was designated by the US as a state sponsoring terrorism back when its toppled ruler Omar al-Bashir called the shots.

The interim government in Sudan is negotiating terms for its removal from the list as it will be possible for the government to get international funds critically necessary for the battered economy. However, the precondition of normalisation of ties with Israel is a recently added talking point in the negotiations.

"This topic (ties to Israel) needs a deep discussion of the society," said Abdalla Hamdok, Prime Minister of Sudan told a conference in Khartoum.

Sudan's surging inflation and plummeting currency have been the biggest challenges to Hamdok's transitional administration, which rules with the military since Bashir's ouster.

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Sudan was put on the U.S. list in 1993 because the United States believed Bashir's government was supporting militant groups. But many in Sudan consider this is undeserved since Bashir was removed last year and Sudan has long cooperated with the United States on counter-terrorism.

During a video statement to the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, which was pre-recorded because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Hamdok said Sudan was actively cooperating with international and bilateral efforts to fight terrorism and terrorism financing.

"Sudan's name should be removed from the list of countries that are sponsoring terrorism. Sudan has returned to the international fold after 30 years outside it. This must happen," he said. "We hail the efforts of the U.S. government and the U.S. Congress to remove Sudan's name from the list."

The White House and State Department have declined to comment when asked about the status of negotiations.

Sudan was a staunch foe of Israel under Bashir. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the chairman of Sudan's transitional military council, had a surprise meeting in Uganda earlier this year with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

(With Reuters inputs)

Sudanese leaders have found themselves divided over US precondition of normalising ties with Israel before Sudan could be removed from US list of states sponsoring terror.

Sudanese leaders have found themselves divided over US precondition of normalising ties with Israel before Sudan could be removed from US list of states sponsoring terror. Sudan is under tremendous pressure from US to normalise ties with Israel. This is widely seen as Trump administration's attempt to win more brownie points before US Presidential Elections on November 3. Sudan, an Arab country, was designated by the US as a state sponsoring terrorism back when its toppled ruler Omar al-Bashir called the shots. The interim government in Sudan is negotiating terms for its removal from the list as it will be possible for the government to get international funds critically necessary for the battered economy. However, the precondition of normalisation of ties with Israel is a recently added talking point in the negotiations. "This topic (ties to Israel) needs a deep discussion of the society," said Abdalla Hamdok, Prime Minister of Sudan told a conference in Khartoum. Sudan's surging inflation and plummeting currency have been the biggest challenges to Hamdok's transitional administration, which rules with the military since Bashir's ouster. Also Read | Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions Sudan was put on the U.S. list in 1993 because the United States believed Bashir's government was supporting militant groups. But many in Sudan consider this is undeserved since Bashir was removed last year and Sudan has long cooperated with the United States on counter-terrorism. During a video statement to the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, which was pre-recorded because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Hamdok said Sudan was actively cooperating with international and bilateral efforts to fight terrorism and terrorism financing. "Sudan's name should be removed from the list of countries that are sponsoring terrorism. Sudan has returned to the international fold after 30 years outside it. This must happen," he said. "We hail the efforts of the U.S. government and the U.S. Congress to remove Sudan's name from the list." The White House and State Department have declined to comment when asked about the status of negotiations. Sudan was a staunch foe of Israel under Bashir. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the chairman of Sudan's transitional military council, had a surprise meeting in Uganda earlier this year with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (With Reuters inputs)

US efforts for Arab-Israel ties divides leaders in Sudan

Weeks after India and China engaged in their deadliest border clash in decades, the sight of an American nuclear-powered aircraft carrier entering the Bay of Bengal drew attention across the region.

The carrier, the USS Nimitz, and its strike group deployed to the area in mid-July to conduct an exercise with the Indian Navy in pursuit of a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” according to a statement by the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, whose headquarters are in Japan. But as tensions soar between India and China, two nuclear-armed neighbors, the joint operation took on a greater significance.

“It was symbolic,” said Tanvi Madan, the director of the India Project at the Brookings Institution. “It’s also signaling to China and others that the U.S. is standing by India.”

As the rivalry between India and China intensifies, the United States and India have taken their shared anger toward Beijing and forged stronger diplomatic and military ties that could alter the balance of power in the region. Officials note that while that friendship has been on an upswing over the past two decades, the border dispute with China has accelerated relations between the countries.

“Both the U.S. and India have recognized the importance of the other,” said Nisha Biswal, an assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs during the Obama administration. “It’s not a surprise that the Indians are looking for like-minded strategic and security partners, given concerns around a destabilizing environment in the Indo-Pacific.”

But social justice advocates worry that the Trump administration is turning a blind eye to India’s rights abuses against Muslims under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prioritizing military and geopolitical alliances over all else.

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“They are warming relations under the same authoritarian banner,” said Wasim Dar, who campaigns for rights of people in the disputed territory of Kashmir. “They’re prioritizing military, or hegemony, over any kind of human rights or political freedom.”

The United States and India have increasingly soured on China in recent years.

A looming presidential election in the United States — and President Donald Trump’s eagerness to paint China as a rival — has caused Washington to sharply shift its policies toward Beijing. The Trump administration has taken a series of economic, political and diplomatic actions against China, citing its crackdown on democratic protests in Hong Kong, human rights abuses against the largely Muslim Uighur minority, unfair trade practices and aggressive expansion into the South China Sea.

At the same time, India and China have engaged in increasing aggression in recent months.

In June, Indian and Chinese troops brawled along a land border in the Himalayas, killing 20 Indian soldiers. In August, a soldier in the secretive force of Tibetan refugees working for the Indian Army was killed by a land mine. In September, both countries blamed each other for firing gunshots in the same region, the first time military fire had been recorded in the area for decades.

“Nobody’s backing down. They’re going to go through the winter like this,” said Vikram Singh, senior adviser to the Asia program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. “Now you’ve got a situation where there’s a whole bunch more flash points at a tactical level.”

Washington’s relationship with India has a rocky history. During the Cold War, the United States grew closer with Pakistan, India’s border rival, and Russia with India. U.S. relations with India started to warm in 2000 after President Bill Clinton became the first American president to visit the country since 1978. Since then, every American leader has made the trip to India and extolled the virtues of teaming with the world’s largest democracy.

Still, the United States and India have not signed a formal alliance. India, which for years has maintained a stance of nonalignment, has been reluctant to engage.

But the Himalayan crisis is helping change that.

India’s increasing focus on China — a turnaround from the days when Pakistan claimed most of its attention — is a welcome sign for American diplomats, who believe the shared anger can draw India into a strategic partnership that will help neutralize China’s growing influence in the region.

Of most interest, experts say, is whether the border dispute will move India closer into a regional partnership with the United States, Japan and Australia — known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or “Quad.”

The forum — proposed in 2007 by the Japanese prime minister at the time, Shinzo Abe — was billed as the Asian “arc of democracy.” China has seen it as a threat to its dominance in the region, saying the Quad is a U.S. attempt to create an Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization directly aimed at counterbalancing its interests.

In the past, India was hesitant to fully engage in the partnership, spurned by Australia’s exit in 2008 and fearful of upsetting China and ruining its trade ties with the country. Australia has since rejoined.

But former State Department officials and diplomacy experts note China’s aggressive actions have started to backfire, pointing to recent moves that show India is more willing to participate in a coalition that is seen by most as anti-China.

Modi signaled in his call with Japan’s new prime minister, Yoshihide Suga, that the two countries must work together for a “free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,” echoing language used by the Quad and United States.

India’s minister of external affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, has also become increasingly vocal about the partnership, experts say, and will meet in Tokyo on Tuesday with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the foreign ministers of Japan and Australia for the Quad’s second official meeting.

“The goal before was, don’t provoke China too much,” said Richard Fontaine, who served as Sen. John McCain’s foreign policy adviser and is now chief executive of the Center for a New American Security. “But now, with China acting the way it is, there’s no longer the sense of as much restraint on what India might do with the United States.”

Should India become more willing to turn the forum into a strategic alliance, it could prove beneficial for the region, State Department officials have said. “Anything of the fortitude of NATO or the European Union” does not exist there, said Stephen Biegun, the deputy secretary of state. He added that while India was a “centerpiece” of the U.S.’ strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, it cannot be taken for granted that India wants to cement a formal partnership.

But some scholars say the tide has turned, and the relationship can go only one way. “The direction of U.S.-India relations is clear now — toward closer cooperation,” said Brahma Chellaney, a professor of strategic studies at the Center for Policy Research, a New Delhi think tank. “That will be the main fallout of China’s aggression in the Himalayan region.”

Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, have pledged to ease tensions along their contested border. However, a joint statement they issued in September fails to address key differences behind the border dispute, including the exact demarcation of the contested territory.

India and the United States are also looking to increase military cooperation. Over the years, India has accelerated its weapons purchases from the United States. It is slated to buy upward of $20 billion in U.S. arms in 2020, a sharp increase from nearly zero in 2008, according to the State Department.

More recently, India has sought to fast-track a purchase 30 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics in a deal that is likely to exceed $3 billion, according to industry officials. The drones could be deployed to India’s disputed border region with China and significantly expand its surveillance over the area. The news was reported earlier by India Today.

In September, the United States also signed a defense agreement with the Maldives, the small island nation hundreds of miles southwest of India, that provides the United States an opportunity to counter China’s ability to expand its presence in the region. India has been historically skeptical of foreign military presence so close to its borders but blessed the deal.

Diplomats are watching to see if India invites Australia to participate in a naval exercise it holds with Japan and the United States. It would be another sign that India is taking the concept of the Quad seriously, experts said. As of Wednesday, India was still considering whether Australia should be included, according to a senior State Department official.

But despite the warming ties, Trump and Modi, both conservatives, have not addressed human rights concerns.

Modi, a Hindu nationalist, has been criticized heavily for actions that have disenfranchised Muslims in India. Last August, Modi revoked a special status for Kashmir that had granted it greater autonomy than other Indian states. After protests erupted over the measure, he clamped down with lockdowns and a suspension of phone and internet services.

Late last year, Modi also introduced a law that laid out a path to citizenship for people from six religious minorities who arrived to India before 2015. Muslims were excluded. The action prompted mass protests across India and resulted in a brutal police crackdown.

Human rights experts say it is troubling that the United States talks so strongly about human rights abuses in China but is willing to engage in deeper diplomatic and strategic ties with India, where similar situations are occurring.

“It’s basically hypocrisy,” Dar said. 
&nbsp;

Weeks after India and China engaged in their deadliest border clash in decades, the sight of an American nuclear-powered aircraft carrier entering the Bay of Bengal drew attention across the region.

Weeks after India and China engaged in their deadliest border clash in decades, the sight of an American nuclear-powered aircraft carrier entering the Bay of Bengal drew attention across the region. The carrier, the USS Nimitz, and its strike group deployed to the area in mid-July to conduct an exercise with the Indian Navy in pursuit of a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” according to a statement by the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, whose headquarters are in Japan. But as tensions soar between India and China, two nuclear-armed neighbors, the joint operation took on a greater significance. “It was symbolic,” said Tanvi Madan, the director of the India Project at the Brookings Institution. “It’s also signaling to China and others that the U.S. is standing by India.” As the rivalry between India and China intensifies, the United States and India have taken their shared anger toward Beijing and forged stronger diplomatic and military ties that could alter the balance of power in the region. Officials note that while that friendship has been on an upswing over the past two decades, the border dispute with China has accelerated relations between the countries. “Both the U.S. and India have recognized the importance of the other,” said Nisha Biswal, an assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs during the Obama administration. “It’s not a surprise that the Indians are looking for like-minded strategic and security partners, given concerns around a destabilizing environment in the Indo-Pacific.” But social justice advocates worry that the Trump administration is turning a blind eye to India’s rights abuses against Muslims under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prioritizing military and geopolitical alliances over all else. ALSO READ | Even the White House’s testing regime couldn’t stop coronavirus “They are warming relations under the same authoritarian banner,” said Wasim Dar, who campaigns for rights of people in the disputed territory of Kashmir. “They’re prioritizing military, or hegemony, over any kind of human rights or political freedom.” The United States and India have increasingly soured on China in recent years. A looming presidential election in the United States — and President Donald Trump’s eagerness to paint China as a rival — has caused Washington to sharply shift its policies toward Beijing. The Trump administration has taken a series of economic, political and diplomatic actions against China, citing its crackdown on democratic protests in Hong Kong, human rights abuses against the largely Muslim Uighur minority, unfair trade practices and aggressive expansion into the South China Sea. At the same time, India and China have engaged in increasing aggression in recent months. In June, Indian and Chinese troops brawled along a land border in the Himalayas, killing 20 Indian soldiers. In August, a soldier in the secretive force of Tibetan refugees working for the Indian Army was killed by a land mine. In September, both countries blamed each other for firing gunshots in the same region, the first time military fire had been recorded in the area for decades. “Nobody’s backing down. They’re going to go through the winter like this,” said Vikram Singh, senior adviser to the Asia program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. “Now you’ve got a situation where there’s a whole bunch more flash points at a tactical level.” Washington’s relationship with India has a rocky history. During the Cold War, the United States grew closer with Pakistan, India’s border rival, and Russia with India. U.S. relations with India started to warm in 2000 after President Bill Clinton became the first American president to visit the country since 1978. Since then, every American leader has made the trip to India and extolled the virtues of teaming with the world’s largest democracy. Still, the United States and India have not signed a formal alliance. India, which for years has maintained a stance of nonalignment, has been reluctant to engage. But the Himalayan crisis is helping change that. India’s increasing focus on China — a turnaround from the days when Pakistan claimed most of its attention — is a welcome sign for American diplomats, who believe the shared anger can draw India into a strategic partnership that will help neutralize China’s growing influence in the region. Of most interest, experts say, is whether the border dispute will move India closer into a regional partnership with the United States, Japan and Australia — known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or “Quad.” The forum — proposed in 2007 by the Japanese prime minister at the time, Shinzo Abe — was billed as the Asian “arc of democracy.” China has seen it as a threat to its dominance in the region, saying the Quad is a U.S. attempt to create an Asian version of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization directly aimed at counterbalancing its interests. In the past, India was hesitant to fully engage in the partnership, spurned by Australia’s exit in 2008 and fearful of upsetting China and ruining its trade ties with the country. Australia has since rejoined. But former State Department officials and diplomacy experts note China’s aggressive actions have started to backfire, pointing to recent moves that show India is more willing to participate in a coalition that is seen by most as anti-China. Modi signaled in his call with Japan’s new prime minister, Yoshihide Suga, that the two countries must work together for a “free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,” echoing language used by the Quad and United States. India’s minister of external affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, has also become increasingly vocal about the partnership, experts say, and will meet in Tokyo on Tuesday with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the foreign ministers of Japan and Australia for the Quad’s second official meeting. “The goal before was, don’t provoke China too much,” said Richard Fontaine, who served as Sen. John McCain’s foreign policy adviser and is now chief executive of the Center for a New American Security. “But now, with China acting the way it is, there’s no longer the sense of as much restraint on what India might do with the United States.” Should India become more willing to turn the forum into a strategic alliance, it could prove beneficial for the region, State Department officials have said. “Anything of the fortitude of NATO or the European Union” does not exist there, said Stephen Biegun, the deputy secretary of state. He added that while India was a “centerpiece” of the U.S.’ strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, it cannot be taken for granted that India wants to cement a formal partnership. But some scholars say the tide has turned, and the relationship can go only one way. “The direction of U.S.-India relations is clear now — toward closer cooperation,” said Brahma Chellaney, a professor of strategic studies at the Center for Policy Research, a New Delhi think tank. “That will be the main fallout of China’s aggression in the Himalayan region.” Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, have pledged to ease tensions along their contested border. However, a joint statement they issued in September fails to address key differences behind the border dispute, including the exact demarcation of the contested territory. India and the United States are also looking to increase military cooperation. Over the years, India has accelerated its weapons purchases from the United States. It is slated to buy upward of $20 billion in U.S. arms in 2020, a sharp increase from nearly zero in 2008, according to the State Department. More recently, India has sought to fast-track a purchase 30 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics in a deal that is likely to exceed $3 billion, according to industry officials. The drones could be deployed to India’s disputed border region with China and significantly expand its surveillance over the area. The news was reported earlier by India Today. In September, the United States also signed a defense agreement with the Maldives, the small island nation hundreds of miles southwest of India, that provides the United States an opportunity to counter China’s ability to expand its presence in the region. India has been historically skeptical of foreign military presence so close to its borders but blessed the deal. Diplomats are watching to see if India invites Australia to participate in a naval exercise it holds with Japan and the United States. It would be another sign that India is taking the concept of the Quad seriously, experts said. As of Wednesday, India was still considering whether Australia should be included, according to a senior State Department official. But despite the warming ties, Trump and Modi, both conservatives, have not addressed human rights concerns. Modi, a Hindu nationalist, has been criticized heavily for actions that have disenfranchised Muslims in India. Last August, Modi revoked a special status for Kashmir that had granted it greater autonomy than other Indian states. After protests erupted over the measure, he clamped down with lockdowns and a suspension of phone and internet services. Late last year, Modi also introduced a law that laid out a path to citizenship for people from six religious minorities who arrived to India before 2015. Muslims were excluded. The action prompted mass protests across India and resulted in a brutal police crackdown. Human rights experts say it is troubling that the United States talks so strongly about human rights abuses in China but is willing to engage in deeper diplomatic and strategic ties with India, where similar situations are occurring. “It’s basically hypocrisy,” Dar said.

In wake of recent India-China conflict, US sees opportunity

Coronavirus has taken US political circles by storm ever since US President Donald Trump was found to be positive for infection. Trump, who notoriously played down coronavirus pandemic in the initial stages of its outbreak in the US has become a target of criticism as well as jokes.

But another amusing incident took place on Saturday as a Senator declared on national television that he was coronavirus positive, only to retract his statement later.

His defense? He said he 'misspoke' on TV.

On Saturday morning, Rick Scott, the Republican Senator from Florida said during his interview on Fox News that he was positive.

"I was tested yesterday, I think for the 6th time, and I tested positive again," he said during the interview.

However he later took to Twitter to clarify.

"I misspoke this morning in my @FoxNews interview. I was tested yesterday for COVID and tested NEGATIVE," read the tweet.

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I misspoke this morning in my <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxNews</a> interview. I was tested yesterday for COVID and tested NEGATIVE.
— Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/1312406170594926593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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At least three Republican colleagues US Senators Mike Lee of Utah, Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin have been diagnosed with the virus in recent days. A few moments before he misspoke, Scott had said that senators were still doing their jobs.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-having-trouble-breathing-at-hospital-report-332269">Trump having 'trouble breathing' at hospital: Report</a>

"They're talking to people. They're trying to do their job every day," Scott said.

A short time later, Scott's spokesman, Chris Hartline, tweeted, ?For everyone calling and texting right now, Senator Scott misspoke on tv this morning. He tested negative for COVID yesterday." 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus has taken US political circles by storm ever since US President Donald Trump was found to be positive for infection. Trump, who notoriously played down coronavirus pandemic in the initial stages of its outbreak in the US has become a target of criticism as well as jokes.

Coronavirus has taken US political circles by storm ever since US President Donald Trump was found to be positive for infection. Trump, who notoriously played down coronavirus pandemic in the initial stages of its outbreak in the US has become a target of criticism as well as jokes. But another amusing incident took place on Saturday as a Senator declared on national television that he was coronavirus positive, only to retract his statement later. His defense? He said he 'misspoke' on TV. On Saturday morning, Rick Scott, the Republican Senator from Florida said during his interview on Fox News that he was positive. "I was tested yesterday, I think for the 6th time, and I tested positive again," he said during the interview. However he later took to Twitter to clarify. "I misspoke this morning in my @FoxNews interview. I was tested yesterday for COVID and tested NEGATIVE," read the tweet. I misspoke this morning in my @FoxNews interview. I was tested yesterday for COVID and tested NEGATIVE. — Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) October 3, 2020 × At least three Republican colleagues US Senators Mike Lee of Utah, Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin have been diagnosed with the virus in recent days. A few moments before he misspoke, Scott had said that senators were still doing their jobs. Also Read | Trump having 'trouble breathing' at hospital: Report "They're talking to people. They're trying to do their job every day," Scott said. A short time later, Scott's spokesman, Chris Hartline, tweeted, ?For everyone calling and texting right now, Senator Scott misspoke on tv this morning. He tested negative for COVID yesterday."

Florida senator declares he's COVID-19 positive, says later he 'misspoke'

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Trump talks of 'real test' ahead in his fight against coronavirus infection "Over the next period of a few days, I guess that`s the real test, so we`ll be seeing what happens over those next couple of days," Trump said into the camera, seated in front of an American flag and wearing a jacket and open-necked shirt.

Trump talks of 'real test' ahead in his fight against coronavirus infection "Over the next period of a few days, I guess that`s the real test, so we`ll be seeing what happens over those next couple of days," Trump said into the camera, seated in front of an American flag and wearing a jacket and open-necked shirt...Read more Azerbaijan accuses Armenia of bombing another city, escalating conflict Ignoring appeals from Russia, the United States, France and the EU to call a ceasefire, Armenia and Azerbaijan have stepped up hostilities over the weekend, with an accompanying rise in aggressive rhetoric....Read more Belarus police use water cannon in Minsk amid anti-Lukashenko protests Reports said protesters were not just detained in capital Minsk but in other places as well including Vitebsk and Gomel... Read more Paris braces for maximum COVID-19 alert level amid rising cases The number of hospitalizations in the country has risen to a 10-week high of 6,590 with the total number of cases at 563,535 which is the second-highest in Western Europe... Read more Mecca reopens for limited 'umrah' pilgrimage A raft of precautions have been adopted to ward off any outbreaks during the umrah, according to state media...Read more Lawyer named as first Black woman to lead national party in Canada She succeeds Elizabeth May, who led the Greens for 13 years before stepping down at the end of 2019...Read more Reports emerge of ISI's involvement in car bomb explosion in Afghanistan's Nangarhar At least 15 people were killed and more than 30 wounded in a car bomb explosion near the district governor`s compound in Ghanikhil district in the eastern province of Nangarhar on Saturday afternoon...Read more Sri Lanka imposes indefinite curfew in 2 towns after detection of new COVID-19 cases Nearly 50 people from her workplace and the hospital have been sent for home quarantine after she was detected positive for COVID-19...Read more Nepal Prime Minister's advisers test positive for COVID-19 Oli has previously tested negative, but had yet to take a test after his associates tested positive...Read more India, Bangladesh conduct naval exercise in Bay of Bengal Indian Navy ships Kiltan, Khukri and Bangladesh Navy ships Abu Bakr, Prottoy & MPA undertook manoeuvres, surface drills, helo operations and seamanship evolutions...Read more

Top 10 world news: Trump talks of 'real test',  Mecca reopens, and more

Beijing has confirmed to United Nations a death of an Uyghur Muslim. The man's family has been long alleging that he was held in Xinjiang internment camp, as per the Guardian. The disappearnce of the man belonging to Uyghur Muslim community was registered was registered with the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID) since April 2019. For all these day China had not responde to any of formal enquiries until now.

As per The Guardian, China admitted to the man's death in a document submitted to the UN WEID. It said that the man had died two years ago, on November 3, 2018 of 'severe pneumonia and tuberculosis'.

The daughter of Abdulghafur Hapiz, the departed man, refused to believe in the reason of death cited by China.

"I don`t believe it," his daughter, Fatimah Abdulghafur, told The Guardian. "If he died of anything it would have been diabetes."

"I know my father`s health and I`ve been talking about his health issues. He had a (tuberculosis) shot," she added.

She says she believed that her father was sent to Xinjiang camp in March 2017.

Abdulghafur, a poet and activist residing in Australia, was further quoted as saying that her father had left her a voice message on WeChat: "`I have something urgent to tell you please call me`.""However, when I called him back he wasn`t there..."I was frantically looking for my father, when he was already gone. It`s also really sad because I couldn`t speak to him before his death," she said while adding that the authorities gave her no information about her father`s burial or even the location of his body.

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With China finally officially confirming the death of her father, Abdulghafur told The Guardian that this will bring hope and potentially legal recourse.

"This is an official letter from the government given to the UN, so I can take this letter to maybe an international court to say this is my evidence, and let the Chinese government show their evidence."

"To me it`s a major personal success. I`m not sure who can help me but I`m searching."Meanwhile, upon the WGEID enquiring about Abdulghafur`s mother and two younger siblings, who are also missing, Abdulghafur said authorities reported back that her 63-year-old mother was "leading a social, normal life"."I haven`t been able to speak to her at all. That`s another lie," she said.&nbsp;

"She is at home, I`m sure of it. But she`s not living a normal life. I think she is under house arrest."

AbdulGhafir's daughter had anonymously written to the WGEID to probe into her family`s mysterious disappearance. She further highlighted that when her sister living in Turkey had called up the Chinese Embassy in Istanbul, she was harassed and intimidated and made to give her personal details.

China put a million or more Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities into detention camps and prisons in Xinjiang over the last three years, according to reports in US media.

However, China regularly denies such mistreatment and says the camps provide vocational training.Uyghur activists and human rights groups have countered that many of those held are people with advanced degrees and business owners who are influential in their communities and have no need for any special education.People in the internment camps said they are subjected to forced political indoctrination, torture, beatings, and denial of food and medicine, and have been prohibited from practising their religion or speaking their language.Now, as Beijing denies these accounts, it also refuses to allow independent inspections into the regions, at the same time, which further fuels reports related to China`s atrocities on the minority Muslims.&nbsp;

"As long as he stays in power it will continue, and the world will watch all the Uighur people disappear one by one," said Abdulghafur."They are fully armed to either completely get rid of us or completely make us one of them, like complete assimilation. There is no in-between pathway," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Beijing has confirmed to United Nations a death of an Uyghur Muslim. The man's family has been long alleging that he was held in Xinjiang internment camp, as per the Guardian.

Beijing has confirmed to United Nations a death of an Uyghur Muslim. The man's family has been long alleging that he was held in Xinjiang internment camp, as per the Guardian. The disappearnce of the man belonging to Uyghur Muslim community was registered was registered with the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID) since April 2019. For all these day China had not responde to any of formal enquiries until now. As per The Guardian, China admitted to the man's death in a document submitted to the UN WEID. It said that the man had died two years ago, on November 3, 2018 of 'severe pneumonia and tuberculosis'. The daughter of Abdulghafur Hapiz, the departed man, refused to believe in the reason of death cited by China. "I don`t believe it," his daughter, Fatimah Abdulghafur, told The Guardian. "If he died of anything it would have been diabetes." "I know my father`s health and I`ve been talking about his health issues. He had a (tuberculosis) shot," she added. She says she believed that her father was sent to Xinjiang camp in March 2017. Abdulghafur, a poet and activist residing in Australia, was further quoted as saying that her father had left her a voice message on WeChat: "`I have something urgent to tell you please call me`.""However, when I called him back he wasn`t there..."I was frantically looking for my father, when he was already gone. It`s also really sad because I couldn`t speak to him before his death," she said while adding that the authorities gave her no information about her father`s burial or even the location of his body. Also Read: The 7th India-China corps commanders meet on October 12 With China finally officially confirming the death of her father, Abdulghafur told The Guardian that this will bring hope and potentially legal recourse. "This is an official letter from the government given to the UN, so I can take this letter to maybe an international court to say this is my evidence, and let the Chinese government show their evidence." "To me it`s a major personal success. I`m not sure who can help me but I`m searching."Meanwhile, upon the WGEID enquiring about Abdulghafur`s mother and two younger siblings, who are also missing, Abdulghafur said authorities reported back that her 63-year-old mother was "leading a social, normal life"."I haven`t been able to speak to her at all. That`s another lie," she said. "She is at home, I`m sure of it. But she`s not living a normal life. I think she is under house arrest." AbdulGhafir's daughter had anonymously written to the WGEID to probe into her family`s mysterious disappearance. She further highlighted that when her sister living in Turkey had called up the Chinese Embassy in Istanbul, she was harassed and intimidated and made to give her personal details. China put a million or more Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities into detention camps and prisons in Xinjiang over the last three years, according to reports in US media. However, China regularly denies such mistreatment and says the camps provide vocational training.Uyghur activists and human rights groups have countered that many of those held are people with advanced degrees and business owners who are influential in their communities and have no need for any special education.People in the internment camps said they are subjected to forced political indoctrination, torture, beatings, and denial of food and medicine, and have been prohibited from practising their religion or speaking their language.Now, as Beijing denies these accounts, it also refuses to allow independent inspections into the regions, at the same time, which further fuels reports related to China`s atrocities on the minority Muslims. "As long as he stays in power it will continue, and the world will watch all the Uighur people disappear one by one," said Abdulghafur."They are fully armed to either completely get rid of us or completely make us one of them, like complete assimilation. There is no in-between pathway," she added. (With inputs from Reuters)

China formally admits death of Uyghur man held in Xinjiang camp

Reports have emerged of the ISI`s involvement in the car bomb explosion in Nangarhar even as the Afghan govt accused the Taliban and other terrorist groups of continuing crimes against the people of Afghanistan.

"The Taliban and other terrorist groups in collusion with them continue their terrorist activities and, like today`s terrorist attack in Nangarhar, kill civilians every day and destroy public infrastructures," according to a Presidential Palace statement reported by Tolo News.

Ahmad Shuja, DG for international affairs &amp; regional cooperation, Office of the National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan tweeted, "Images of dead and injured children in Taliban`s car bomb in Nangarhar are too gruesome to share, but the toll today is a stark reminder of the real cost of the Taliban`s daily acts of terrorism. The group is using the lives of civilians to bargain for more power.&nbsp;

"Unconscionable."He added, "Time for Taliban to admit that this is a morally bankrupt way to build a so-called Islamic government. You are using terrorism to reinstate tyranny. Where`s the jihad in that?"

In reply, one user said, "Only because of Pakistan we are facing these days."One user also said that Pakistan is playing a dangerous game in Afghanistan."&nbsp;

"Days after @DrabdullahCE visited #Pakistan &amp; was assured that Pak will use its influence over #Taliban to ensure reduction in violence, a car-bomb today in Nangarhar province killed at least 15 people &amp; wounded 34 others. Pakistan is playing a dangerous game in Afghanistan," the user wrote.

At least 15 people were killed and more than 30 wounded in a car bomb explosion near the district governor`s compound in Ghanikhil district in the eastern province of Nangarhar on Saturday afternoon, TOLO news reported.&nbsp; 
Abdullah Orakzai, the key leader of the Islamic State in Khorasan Province`s (ISKP), who was responsible for the recent Jalalabad prison attack, was killed in an operation by Afghan forces, the National Directorate of Security (NDS) announced in August.

Assadullah, a Pakistan-origin terrorist operating in Afghanistan as the head of intelligence for the ISIS Khorasan branch, was killed in an operation by Afghan security forces early this month. 
&nbsp;

Reports have emerged of the ISI`s involvement in the car bomb explosion in Nangarhar even as the Afghan govt accused the Taliban and other terrorist groups of continuing crimes against the people of Afghanistan.

Reports have emerged of the ISI`s involvement in the car bomb explosion in Nangarhar even as the Afghan govt accused the Taliban and other terrorist groups of continuing crimes against the people of Afghanistan. "The Taliban and other terrorist groups in collusion with them continue their terrorist activities and, like today`s terrorist attack in Nangarhar, kill civilians every day and destroy public infrastructures," according to a Presidential Palace statement reported by Tolo News. Ahmad Shuja, DG for international affairs & regional cooperation, Office of the National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan tweeted, "Images of dead and injured children in Taliban`s car bomb in Nangarhar are too gruesome to share, but the toll today is a stark reminder of the real cost of the Taliban`s daily acts of terrorism. The group is using the lives of civilians to bargain for more power. "Unconscionable."He added, "Time for Taliban to admit that this is a morally bankrupt way to build a so-called Islamic government. You are using terrorism to reinstate tyranny. Where`s the jihad in that?" In reply, one user said, "Only because of Pakistan we are facing these days."One user also said that Pakistan is playing a dangerous game in Afghanistan." "Days after @DrabdullahCE visited #Pakistan & was assured that Pak will use its influence over #Taliban to ensure reduction in violence, a car-bomb today in Nangarhar province killed at least 15 people & wounded 34 others. Pakistan is playing a dangerous game in Afghanistan," the user wrote. At least 15 people were killed and more than 30 wounded in a car bomb explosion near the district governor`s compound in Ghanikhil district in the eastern province of Nangarhar on Saturday afternoon, TOLO news reported. Abdullah Orakzai, the key leader of the Islamic State in Khorasan Province`s (ISKP), who was responsible for the recent Jalalabad prison attack, was killed in an operation by Afghan forces, the National Directorate of Security (NDS) announced in August. Assadullah, a Pakistan-origin terrorist operating in Afghanistan as the head of intelligence for the ISIS Khorasan branch, was killed in an operation by Afghan security forces early this month.

Reports emerge of ISI's involvement in car bomb explosion in Afghanistan's Nangarhar

As Pakistan bears the brunt of human rights violations in the country against journalists, in Balochistan and the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region, Prime Minister Imran Khan has now turned to recommend books to the youth of the nation.According to The News, for the month of October, Khan recommended Elif Shafak`s "The Forty Rules of Love" for the youth of Pakistan in an attempt to "bring them close" to Islam.

"This October I suggest our youth to read "The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak. An inspirational book about divine love, Sufism, Rumi &amp; his Murshid Shams Tabriz. I read it a few years back and was deeply inspired," Khan captioned his post where he shared the photograph of the book on Instagram.

In May, in the wake of the coronavirus-induced lockdown, Khan recommended that the youth read the famous book `Lost Islamic History`."A great read for our youth during lockdown days. An excellent brief history of the driving force that made Islamic civilisation the greatest of its time and then the factors behind its decline," he tweeted.

The United Nations Human Rights Office on Tuesday expressed its concern over the increasing instances of threats of violence against journalists and human rights activists in Pakistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-hc-to-hear-plea-for-banning-sharifs-speech-332405">Islamabad HC to hear plea for banning Sharifs' speech</a> 
 
"We have followed with increasing concern numerous instances of incitement to violence - online and offline - against journalists and human rights defenders in Pakistan, in particular against women and minorities. Especially worrying are accusations of blasphemy - which can put accused individuals at imminent risk of violence," said a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Rupert Colville in a briefing.

With Regard to the GB region, Pakistan is also planning to hold elections to the so-called Gilgit Baltistan legislative assembly on November 15.India had said that any action by Islamabad to alter the status of the military occupied so-called `Gilgit-Baltistan` has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally ab-initio.

As Pakistan bears the brunt of human rights violations in the country against journalists, in Balochistan and the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region, Prime Minister Imran Khan has now turned to recommend books to the youth of the nation.

As Pakistan bears the brunt of human rights violations in the country against journalists, in Balochistan and the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region, Prime Minister Imran Khan has now turned to recommend books to the youth of the nation.According to The News, for the month of October, Khan recommended Elif Shafak`s "The Forty Rules of Love" for the youth of Pakistan in an attempt to "bring them close" to Islam. "This October I suggest our youth to read "The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak. An inspirational book about divine love, Sufism, Rumi & his Murshid Shams Tabriz. I read it a few years back and was deeply inspired," Khan captioned his post where he shared the photograph of the book on Instagram. In May, in the wake of the coronavirus-induced lockdown, Khan recommended that the youth read the famous book `Lost Islamic History`."A great read for our youth during lockdown days. An excellent brief history of the driving force that made Islamic civilisation the greatest of its time and then the factors behind its decline," he tweeted. The United Nations Human Rights Office on Tuesday expressed its concern over the increasing instances of threats of violence against journalists and human rights activists in Pakistan. Also Read | Islamabad HC to hear plea for banning Sharifs' speech "We have followed with increasing concern numerous instances of incitement to violence - online and offline - against journalists and human rights defenders in Pakistan, in particular against women and minorities. Especially worrying are accusations of blasphemy - which can put accused individuals at imminent risk of violence," said a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Rupert Colville in a briefing. With Regard to the GB region, Pakistan is also planning to hold elections to the so-called Gilgit Baltistan legislative assembly on November 15.India had said that any action by Islamabad to alter the status of the military occupied so-called `Gilgit-Baltistan` has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally ab-initio.

Imran Khan turns to recommending books to youth as Pakistan bears brunt of human rights violations

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