<p>A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>27-year-old Chu Kai-pong was sentenced on Thursday at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts, after pleading guilty earlier in the week to one count of “doing acts with seditious intention”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man was arrested a subway station in June wearing a T-shirt stating the phrase "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times". He was also wearing a mask, that read "FDNOL", which abbreviates the slogan "Five demands, not one less."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both these slogans were frequently heard in large-scale protests in Hong Kong during the months-long anti-government demonstrations in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The local media reported that the man was also carrying a box containing his excrement to use against people opposing his views.</p>

<h2><strong>'New national security law, Article 23'</strong></h2>

<p>The prison term given to the man is the first in Hong Kong under a new local national security law that was passed in March this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The law, also called Article 23, is an expansion of the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail under the new legislation, Article 23.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-arrests-six-for-sedition-under-new-security-law-726461"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hong Kong arrests six for sedition under new security law</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the critics, the law could further erode civil liberties in the city. Meanwhile, Beijing and Hong Kong have been defending it, saying that it was necessary for stability in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chu was arrested on June 12, the day marking the anniversary of a key date of the 2019 protests, when particularly large crowds took to the city's streets.</p>

<p>The court heard Chu told police he wore the T-shirt to remind people of the protests, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man was jailed for three months earlier also in a separate incident for wearing a T-shirt with the same slogan, and for possession of other offensive items.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ex-CIA officer jailed after pleading guilty to spying for China</strong></p>

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<p>Chief Magistrate Victor So, who was picked by the government to hear national security cases, stated in his judgment that Chu intended to "reignite the ideas behind" the 2019 protests.</p>

<p>He further said that Chu “took advantage of a symbolic day with the intention to reignite the ideas behind the unrest”.</p>

<p>He said Chu "showed no remorse" after his previous conviction, and that the sentence reflected the "seriousness" of the sedition charge.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law.

A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law. 27-year-old Chu Kai-pong was sentenced on Thursday at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts, after pleading guilty earlier in the week to one count of “doing acts with seditious intention”. The man was arrested a subway station in June wearing a T-shirt stating the phrase "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times". He was also wearing a mask, that read "FDNOL", which abbreviates the slogan "Five demands, not one less." Both these slogans were frequently heard in large-scale protests in Hong Kong during the months-long anti-government demonstrations in 2019. The local media reported that the man was also carrying a box containing his excrement to use against people opposing his views. 'New national security law, Article 23' The prison term given to the man is the first in Hong Kong under a new local national security law that was passed in March this year. The law, also called Article 23, is an expansion of the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail under the new legislation, Article 23. Also read: Hong Kong arrests six for sedition under new security law According to the critics, the law could further erode civil liberties in the city. Meanwhile, Beijing and Hong Kong have been defending it, saying that it was necessary for stability in the country. Chu was arrested on June 12, the day marking the anniversary of a key date of the 2019 protests, when particularly large crowds took to the city's streets. The court heard Chu told police he wore the T-shirt to remind people of the protests, Reuters reported. The man was jailed for three months earlier also in a separate incident for wearing a T-shirt with the same slogan, and for possession of other offensive items. Watch | Ex-CIA officer jailed after pleading guilty to spying for China × Chief Magistrate Victor So, who was picked by the government to hear national security cases, stated in his judgment that Chu intended to "reignite the ideas behind" the 2019 protests. He further said that Chu “took advantage of a symbolic day with the intention to reignite the ideas behind the unrest”. He said Chu "showed no remorse" after his previous conviction, and that the sentence reflected the "seriousness" of the sedition charge. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong man imprisoned for 14 months for wearing 'seditious' T-shirt

<p>Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying&nbsp;that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and&nbsp;offer&nbsp;safe passage out of the Palestinian&nbsp;enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, Israel has proposed that it would also release all Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails, demilitarise the Gaza Strip, and place a new system of governance in Gaza.</p>

<p>The report stated that a government point man on the hostages, Gal Hirsch, told the families of hostages that the proposal was presented in a meeting with US officials from the White House and State Department last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pager Blasts: Iran Accuses Israel of 'Mass Murder'</strong></p>

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<p>The report, citing sources who met with Hirsch, said that the proposal is called a "safe passage deal".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'A secondary plan'</strong></h2>

<p>An anonymous Israeli official told Kan that the plan has been proposed as "Plan B".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In light of the difficulties in the negotiations and the ticking clock on the lives of the hostages, we would like to propose a secondary plan that would shorten the stages, and allow for a faster deal,” the official reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official added, “This will happen if Sinwar leaves [Gaza] and brings about an end to the war. This will allow us to&nbsp;meet the goals of the war, and for the leadership of Hamas in Gaza to leave to a safe place.”</p>

<p>Notably, it is not the first time a proposal has come into the limelight to release all hostages in one go in return for a complete end of&nbsp;war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel attacked southern Lebanon</strong></h2>

<p>As the war continues, Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks. The Israeli military said that they struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-hezbollah-in-southern-lebanon-after-iran-backed-plot-to-assassinate-netanyahu-revealed-760078"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel strikes seven Hezbollah sites in Lebanon after Iran-backed plot to assassinate Netanyahu revealed</strong></a></p>

<p>It comes just a day after pagers and walkie-talkies used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and offer safe passage out of the Palestinian enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC).

Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and offer safe passage out of the Palestinian enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC). According to the report, Israel has proposed that it would also release all Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails, demilitarise the Gaza Strip, and place a new system of governance in Gaza. The report stated that a government point man on the hostages, Gal Hirsch, told the families of hostages that the proposal was presented in a meeting with US officials from the White House and State Department last week. Watch | Pager Blasts: Iran Accuses Israel of 'Mass Murder' × The report, citing sources who met with Hirsch, said that the proposal is called a "safe passage deal". 'A secondary plan' An anonymous Israeli official told Kan that the plan has been proposed as "Plan B". “In light of the difficulties in the negotiations and the ticking clock on the lives of the hostages, we would like to propose a secondary plan that would shorten the stages, and allow for a faster deal,” the official reportedly said. The official added, “This will happen if Sinwar leaves [Gaza] and brings about an end to the war. This will allow us to meet the goals of the war, and for the leadership of Hamas in Gaza to leave to a safe place.” Notably, it is not the first time a proposal has come into the limelight to release all hostages in one go in return for a complete end of war. Israel attacked southern Lebanon As the war continues, Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks. The Israeli military said that they struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility. Also read: Israel strikes seven Hezbollah sites in Lebanon after Iran-backed plot to assassinate Netanyahu revealed It comes just a day after pagers and walkie-talkies used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel proposes new deal seeking release of all hostages, ending war in Gaza: Report

<p><strong>Kolkata rape-murder case:</strong> Junior doctors on Thursday alleged ‘external pressure’ as fans and&nbsp;tents were removed from their protest site</p>

<p>As the protest in front of Swasthya Bhawan, the West Bengal health department’s headquarters&nbsp;in Kolkata, intensified,&nbsp;junior doctors alleged that "external pressure" forced the decorators to remove tens, fans, and bamboo sticks from their protest site.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Effort to 'demoralise' protesters&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The protesters alleged that it was a move to "demoralise" them and weaken their morale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It could be an effort to demoralise us,” said a junior doctor, “but we would like to clearly say that for a protest, we don’t need all this. We can protest from anywhere and in any possible way.”</p>

<p>The protest outside Swasthya Bhawan began on September 10. After meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the doctors expressed "partial" satisfaction with the outcome and requested further discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-cbi-has-revealed-is-disturbing-indian-sc-tears-into-west-bengal-government-on-rg-kar-probe-759643"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'What CBI has revealed is disturbing...': Indian SC tears into West Bengal government on RG Kar probe</strong></a></p>

<p>The protest was triggered after a junior female doctor was brutally raped and murdered last month in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical Hospital and College.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The junior doctors announced their decision to continue the protest and cease work after a six-hour meeting with government officials on Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Debashish Haldar, a prominent figure in the protest, said, “While we appreciate the government’s verbal commitments, we remain hopeful for a written directive that formally acknowledges our demands. Until then, we will maintain our current course of action.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kolkata rape-murder case: Second round of talks inconclusive</strong></p>

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<p>The Chief Secretary requested the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front (WBJDF) to submit the particulars of four to five junior doctors as representatives in the proposed Special Task Force for further discussions. He further reiterated the government’s appeal for the doctors to immediately resume work.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kolkata rape-murder case: Junior doctors on Thursday alleged ‘external pressure’ as fans and tents were removed from their protest site As the protest in front of Swasthya Bhawan, the West Bengal health department’s headquarters in Kolkata, intensified, junior doctors alleged that "external pressure" forced the decorators to remove tens, fans, and bamboo sticks from their protest site.

Kolkata rape-murder case: Junior doctors on Thursday alleged ‘external pressure’ as fans and tents were removed from their protest site As the protest in front of Swasthya Bhawan, the West Bengal health department’s headquarters in Kolkata, intensified, junior doctors alleged that "external pressure" forced the decorators to remove tens, fans, and bamboo sticks from their protest site. Effort to 'demoralise' protesters The protesters alleged that it was a move to "demoralise" them and weaken their morale. “It could be an effort to demoralise us,” said a junior doctor, “but we would like to clearly say that for a protest, we don’t need all this. We can protest from anywhere and in any possible way.” The protest outside Swasthya Bhawan began on September 10. After meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the doctors expressed "partial" satisfaction with the outcome and requested further discussions. Also read: 'What CBI has revealed is disturbing...': Indian SC tears into West Bengal government on RG Kar probe The protest was triggered after a junior female doctor was brutally raped and murdered last month in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical Hospital and College. The junior doctors announced their decision to continue the protest and cease work after a six-hour meeting with government officials on Wednesday night. Debashish Haldar, a prominent figure in the protest, said, “While we appreciate the government’s verbal commitments, we remain hopeful for a written directive that formally acknowledges our demands. Until then, we will maintain our current course of action.” Watch | Kolkata rape-murder case: Second round of talks inconclusive × The Chief Secretary requested the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front (WBJDF) to submit the particulars of four to five junior doctors as representatives in the proposed Special Task Force for further discussions. He further reiterated the government’s appeal for the doctors to immediately resume work. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata: Protesting junior doctors allege 'external pressure' after tents, fans removed from stir site

<p>The US Justice Department filed a lawsuit on Wednesday seeking more than $100 million from the Singapore owner and operator of a cargo ship that destroyed a Baltimore bridge.</p>

<p>The 1,000-foot (300-metre) M/V Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, killing six road workers and blocking the busy shipping channel.</p>

<p>The civil suit against Grace Ocean Private and Synergy Marine Private was filed in the US District Court for the District of Maryland.</p>

<p>"The Justice Department is committed to ensuring accountability for those responsible for the destruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge," Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-collapse-eight-indian-crew-members-of-cargo-ship-that-crashed-into-bridge-leave-for-india-734351"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Baltimore bridge collapse: Eight Indian crew members of cargo ship that crashed into bridge leave for India</strong></a></p>

<p>"With this civil claim, the Justice Department is working to ensure that the costs of clearing the channel and reopening the Port of Baltimore are borne by the companies that caused the crash, not by the American taxpayer."</p>

<p>The Justice Department said the suit is aimed at recovering more than $100 million in costs incurred in responding to the disaster and for removing tons of bridge debris.</p>

<p>The Dali lost power while leaving the port of Baltimore for Sri Lanka and struck the bridge.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Collapsed Baltimore bridge blown up in controlled blast: Watch</strong></p>

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<p>Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin Mizer said the owner and operator of the Dali were "well aware of vibration issues on the vessel that could cause a power outage.</p>

<p>"But instead of taking necessary precautions, they did the opposite.</p>

<p>"Out of negligence, mismanagement, and, at times, a desire to cut costs, they configured the ship's electrical and mechanical systems in a way that prevented those systems from being able to quickly restore propulsion and steering after a power outage," Mizer said.</p>

<p>"As a result, when the Dali lost power, a cascading set of failures led to disaster."</p>

<p>The Justice Department suit comes after Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine filed a legal action of their own earlier this year seeking to limit their liability to $44 million.</p>

<p>The Justice Department lawsuit does not seek damages for the eventual costs of rebuilding the bridge. That is expected to be the subject of a separate claim from the state of Maryland.</p>

<p>The families of the six road workers who lost their lives are also pursuing legal claims of their own.</p>

<p>The Fort McHenry channel leading to the port of Baltimore, a key hub for the auto industry, reopened to commercial navigation on June 10.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


The US Justice Department filed a lawsuit on Wednesday seeking more than $100 million from the Singapore owner and operator of a cargo ship that destroyed a Baltimore bridge.

The US Justice Department filed a lawsuit on Wednesday seeking more than $100 million from the Singapore owner and operator of a cargo ship that destroyed a Baltimore bridge. The 1,000-foot (300-metre) M/V Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, killing six road workers and blocking the busy shipping channel. The civil suit against Grace Ocean Private and Synergy Marine Private was filed in the US District Court for the District of Maryland. "The Justice Department is committed to ensuring accountability for those responsible for the destruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge," Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Eight Indian crew members of cargo ship that crashed into bridge leave for India "With this civil claim, the Justice Department is working to ensure that the costs of clearing the channel and reopening the Port of Baltimore are borne by the companies that caused the crash, not by the American taxpayer." The Justice Department said the suit is aimed at recovering more than $100 million in costs incurred in responding to the disaster and for removing tons of bridge debris. The Dali lost power while leaving the port of Baltimore for Sri Lanka and struck the bridge. Watch | Collapsed Baltimore bridge blown up in controlled blast: Watch × Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin Mizer said the owner and operator of the Dali were "well aware of vibration issues on the vessel that could cause a power outage. "But instead of taking necessary precautions, they did the opposite. "Out of negligence, mismanagement, and, at times, a desire to cut costs, they configured the ship's electrical and mechanical systems in a way that prevented those systems from being able to quickly restore propulsion and steering after a power outage," Mizer said. "As a result, when the Dali lost power, a cascading set of failures led to disaster." The Justice Department suit comes after Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine filed a legal action of their own earlier this year seeking to limit their liability to $44 million. The Justice Department lawsuit does not seek damages for the eventual costs of rebuilding the bridge. That is expected to be the subject of a separate claim from the state of Maryland. The families of the six road workers who lost their lives are also pursuing legal claims of their own. The Fort McHenry channel leading to the port of Baltimore, a key hub for the auto industry, reopened to commercial navigation on June 10. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US files $100 mn lawsuit against owner of ship that destroyed Baltimore's key bridge

<p>A 38-year-old man who landed in the Indian state of&nbsp;Kerala from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, was diagnosed with Mpox on Wednesday (Sep 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). The common symptoms include skin rashes, fever, and flu-like symptoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The youth was admitted to the government medical college hospital in Kerala's Manjeri on Monday after he had symptoms of the disease.</p>

<p>State Health Minister Veena George said that the samples collected from him were tested at the virology lab at the government medical college hospital in Kozhikode.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-confirms-first-mpox-case-in-traveller-who-returned-from-africa-757167"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India confirms first Mpox case in traveller who returned from 'country experiencing virus transmission'</strong></a></p>

<p>George further appealed that all those returning from abroad seek treatment if they develop Mpox symptoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"His samples have been sent for testing and the results are awaited," the minister told reporters in New Delhi.</p>

<p>Following this, isolation wards were made ready at 14 hospitals in Kerala, including medical colleges to handle the situation further.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India confirms first travel-related mpox case</strong></p>

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<p>Last week, the youth reached home at Othayi village in Mallapuram. After he recognised the symptoms, he initially went into self-quarantine at home.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Another suspected case in Delhi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A patient with suspected Mpox symptoms was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kerala has already been on alert for Mpox since August after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it&nbsp;a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, which is the highest level of alert by the organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 38-year-old man who landed in the Indian state of Kerala from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, was diagnosed with Mpox on Wednesday (Sep 18). Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV).

A 38-year-old man who landed in the Indian state of Kerala from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, was diagnosed with Mpox on Wednesday (Sep 18). Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). The common symptoms include skin rashes, fever, and flu-like symptoms. The youth was admitted to the government medical college hospital in Kerala's Manjeri on Monday after he had symptoms of the disease. State Health Minister Veena George said that the samples collected from him were tested at the virology lab at the government medical college hospital in Kozhikode. Also read: India confirms first Mpox case in traveller who returned from 'country experiencing virus transmission' George further appealed that all those returning from abroad seek treatment if they develop Mpox symptoms. "His samples have been sent for testing and the results are awaited," the minister told reporters in New Delhi. Following this, isolation wards were made ready at 14 hospitals in Kerala, including medical colleges to handle the situation further. Watch | India confirms first travel-related mpox case × Last week, the youth reached home at Othayi village in Mallapuram. After he recognised the symptoms, he initially went into self-quarantine at home. Another suspected case in Delhi A patient with suspected Mpox symptoms was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi last week. Kerala has already been on alert for Mpox since August after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, which is the highest level of alert by the organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

First Mpox case confirmed in Kerala man who arrived from UAE

<p>A former marine operator who worked for the company behind the Titan submersible that reportedly imploded&nbsp;last year, killing five people, told officials involved in an inquiry led by the United States Coast Guard&nbsp;that he believed such an incident was "inevitable" as the firm "bypassed" all standard rules.</p>

<p>David Lochridge, the former operations director for OceanGate, testified to US Coast Guard investigators that he had warned of a potential safety probe, but was ignored.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Titan submersible implosion</strong></h2>

<p>In June 2023, five people on board the Titan sub, died, when the experimental deep-sea craft imploded during an expedition to view the wreck of the Titanic. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigation has been going on for 15 months. The public hearings began on Monday as part of a two-week inquiry by the US Coast Guard into the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/titan-sub-hearing-former-oceangate-employee-reveals-troubling-red-flags-759568"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Titan sub hearing: Former OceanGate employee reveals troubling 'red flags'</strong></a></p>

<p>Lochridge was fired from OceanGate in 2018 and sued by the company for revealing confidential information to regulators. The company also accused Lochridge of refusing to listen to assurances from a lead engineer on the matter.</p>

<p>According to&nbsp;court documents, Lochridge had major concerns with the Titan's design, including the fact that it was made from carbon fibre, and warned that the material would sustain&nbsp;damage with every dive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'Titan' submersible overshadows the death of migrants</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier on Tuesday, he told US Coast Guard investigators the "whole idea" of OceanGate was "to make money".</p>

<p>"There was very little in the way of science," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Accused company and its CEO of 'arrogance'</strong></h2>

<p>Lochridge also accused the company and its CEO of "arrogance", further saying that they refused to work with experts at the University of Washington to develop the Titan submersible and opted to do all the engineering in-house.</p>

<p>"They think they could do this on their own without proper engineering support," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A former marine operator who worked for the company behind the Titan submersible that reportedly imploded last year, killing five people, told officials involved in an inquiry led by the United States Coast Guard that he believed such an incident was "inevitable" as the firm "bypassed" all standard rules.

A former marine operator who worked for the company behind the Titan submersible that reportedly imploded last year, killing five people, told officials involved in an inquiry led by the United States Coast Guard that he believed such an incident was "inevitable" as the firm "bypassed" all standard rules. David Lochridge, the former operations director for OceanGate, testified to US Coast Guard investigators that he had warned of a potential safety probe, but was ignored. Titan submersible implosion In June 2023, five people on board the Titan sub, died, when the experimental deep-sea craft imploded during an expedition to view the wreck of the Titanic. The investigation has been going on for 15 months. The public hearings began on Monday as part of a two-week inquiry by the US Coast Guard into the disaster. Also read: Titan sub hearing: Former OceanGate employee reveals troubling 'red flags' Lochridge was fired from OceanGate in 2018 and sued by the company for revealing confidential information to regulators. The company also accused Lochridge of refusing to listen to assurances from a lead engineer on the matter. According to court documents, Lochridge had major concerns with the Titan's design, including the fact that it was made from carbon fibre, and warned that the material would sustain damage with every dive. Watch | 'Titan' submersible overshadows the death of migrants × Earlier on Tuesday, he told US Coast Guard investigators the "whole idea" of OceanGate was "to make money". "There was very little in the way of science," he added. Accused company and its CEO of 'arrogance' Lochridge also accused the company and its CEO of "arrogance", further saying that they refused to work with experts at the University of Washington to develop the Titan submersible and opted to do all the engineering in-house. "They think they could do this on their own without proper engineering support," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Former OceanGate employee reveals Titan incident was 'inevitable'

<p>A day after pagers exploded in Lebanon, killing nine people, Hezbollah sources claimed that walkie-talkies have blown up at strongholds across Beirut. According to the media reports, "thousands of walkie-talkies" blew up, killing at least nine people and injuring 300 others. In other news, India’s major opposition political parties on Wednesday opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "One Nation One Election" (ONOE) proposal. The proposal was approved by PM Modi-led Union Cabinet earlier in the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-pagers-walkie-talkie-explosions-rock-hezbollah-in-lebanon-three-dead-759880"><strong>After pagers, walkie-talkie explosions rock Hezbollah in Lebanon, nine dead</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455486-screenshot-2024-09-18-204101.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Hezbollah sources have claimed that walkie-talkies have blown up at strongholds across Beirut, a day after similar explosions occurred in pagers being used by the fighters and medics linked to the militant organisation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/attempt-to-divert-attention-indias-opposition-parties-reject-modis-one-nation-one-election-plan-759831"><strong>‘Attempt to divert attention,’ India’s Opposition parties reject Modi’s One Nation One Election plan</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455454-ani-20230718186-016896789249211689678955669.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>India’s major opposition political parties have opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "One Nation One Election" (ONOE) proposal, calling it non-practical and non-pragmatic. The proposal was green-lighted by PM Modi-led Union Cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18). The chief of Congress, India’s principal opposition party, termed the move "an attempt to divert the attention of the public".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panic-choas-as-home-security-solar-energy-systems-explode-in-lebanon-after-pagers-walkie-talkies-759904"><strong>Panic, chaos as home security, solar energy systems explode in Lebanon after pagers, walkie-talkies</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455498-screenshot-2024-09-18-214707.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Lebanon's official news agency is now reporting that home solar energy systems have exploded in several areas of Beirut.&nbsp;This surge in explosions follows a series of deadly blasts involving pagers and walkie-talkies&nbsp;used by Hezbollah.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/215-of-649-pages-are-just-children-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-israel-hamas-war-victims-759752"><strong>Israel-Hamas war: 215 of 649 pages are just children; Gaza health ministry releases names of victims</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455396-new-wion-57.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Gaza health ministry has identified over 34,000 Palestinians that have been killed in the almost one-year-long, ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. It has published a 649-page exhaustive list of the victims.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-mpox-case-confirmed-in-kerala-man-who-arrived-from-uae-759885"><strong>First Mpox case confirmed in Kerala man who arrived from UAE</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455489-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>A 38-year-old man who landed in Kerala from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, was diagnosed with Mpox on Wednesday.&nbsp;The youth was admitted to the government medical college hospital in Kerala's Malappuram's Manjeri on Monday after he had symptoms of the disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-will-meet-fantastic-indian-pm-narendra-modi-next-week-759639"><strong>Trump meeting Modi: Donald Trump says will meet 'fantastic' Indian PM Narendra Modi next week</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455332-new-wion-53.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Donald Trump at a campaign event on Tuesday (Sep 17) said that he will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra next week. However, the former US President did not reveal details of where the two leaders would meet.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-in-us-senate-block-passage-of-bill-that-wouldve-guaranteed-access-to-ivf-759610"><strong>Republicans in US Senate block passage of bill that would've guaranteed access to IVF</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455314-new-wion-50.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>A bill that sought to enshrine the right for American couples to avail of IVF treatments was blocked by Republicans in the US Senate on Tuesday (Sep 17). This comes just days after Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump surprised voters by voicing his support for the procedure.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-cabinet-approves-one-nation-one-election-759753"><strong>PM Narendra Modi's cabinet approves One Nation One Election</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/01/452428-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18) approved the proposal for a 'One Nation One Election', in a step towards holding simultaneous polls for Lok Sabha and state assemblies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/that-is-what-made-you-gambhir-hails-virat-kohli-for-transforming-indias-test-team-after-succeeding-dhoni-759856"><strong>That is what made you...: Gambhir HAILS Virat Kohli for transforming India's Test team after succeeding Dhoni</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455470-mixcollage-18-sep-2024-07-06-pm-2263.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sean-diddy-combs-denied-bail-in-sex-trafficking-case-759642"><strong>Sean 'Diddy'&nbsp;Combs denied bail in sex trafficking case</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/17/455091-kim-porter-inspired-diddy-first-music-in-years-091523-01-5492d85a488945d9bdf3b5862ba9f9e0.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Sean “Diddy” Combs has been denied bail. The disgraced music mogul was indicted on charges of racketeering and sex trafficking.</p>


A day after pagers exploded in Lebanon, killing nine people, Hezbollah sources claimed that walkie-talkies have blown up at strongholds across Beirut. According to the media reports, "thousands of walkie-talkies" blew up, killing at least nine people and injuring 300 others.

A day after pagers exploded in Lebanon, killing nine people, Hezbollah sources claimed that walkie-talkies have blown up at strongholds across Beirut. According to the media reports, "thousands of walkie-talkies" blew up, killing at least nine people and injuring 300 others. In other news, India’s major opposition political parties on Wednesday opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "One Nation One Election" (ONOE) proposal. The proposal was approved by PM Modi-led Union Cabinet earlier in the day. Click on the headlines to read more: After pagers, walkie-talkie explosions rock Hezbollah in Lebanon, nine dead Hezbollah sources have claimed that walkie-talkies have blown up at strongholds across Beirut, a day after similar explosions occurred in pagers being used by the fighters and medics linked to the militant organisation. ‘Attempt to divert attention,’ India’s Opposition parties reject Modi’s One Nation One Election plan India’s major opposition political parties have opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "One Nation One Election" (ONOE) proposal, calling it non-practical and non-pragmatic. The proposal was green-lighted by PM Modi-led Union Cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18). The chief of Congress, India’s principal opposition party, termed the move "an attempt to divert the attention of the public". Panic, chaos as home security, solar energy systems explode in Lebanon after pagers, walkie-talkies Lebanon's official news agency is now reporting that home solar energy systems have exploded in several areas of Beirut. This surge in explosions follows a series of deadly blasts involving pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah. Israel-Hamas war: 215 of 649 pages are just children; Gaza health ministry releases names of victims Gaza health ministry has identified over 34,000 Palestinians that have been killed in the almost one-year-long, ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. It has published a 649-page exhaustive list of the victims. First Mpox case confirmed in Kerala man who arrived from UAE A 38-year-old man who landed in Kerala from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, was diagnosed with Mpox on Wednesday. The youth was admitted to the government medical college hospital in Kerala's Malappuram's Manjeri on Monday after he had symptoms of the disease. Trump meeting Modi: Donald Trump says will meet 'fantastic' Indian PM Narendra Modi next week Donald Trump at a campaign event on Tuesday (Sep 17) said that he will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra next week. However, the former US President did not reveal details of where the two leaders would meet. Republicans in US Senate block passage of bill that would've guaranteed access to IVF A bill that sought to enshrine the right for American couples to avail of IVF treatments was blocked by Republicans in the US Senate on Tuesday (Sep 17). This comes just days after Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump surprised voters by voicing his support for the procedure. PM Narendra Modi's cabinet approves One Nation One Election Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18) approved the proposal for a 'One Nation One Election', in a step towards holding simultaneous polls for Lok Sabha and state assemblies. That is what made you...: Gambhir HAILS Virat Kohli for transforming India's Test team after succeeding Dhoni Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022). Sean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail in sex trafficking case Sean “Diddy” Combs has been denied bail. The disgraced music mogul was indicted on charges of racketeering and sex trafficking.

Top 10 world news: Walkie-talkies explode in Lebanon; India unveils One Nation One Election plan, and more

<p>As the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on, a Ukrainian drone attack on a large Russian weapons depot, caused a major blast and triggered an earthquake monitoring station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was one of the biggest strikes on Moscow's military arsenal since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>According to the pro-Russian military bloggers, Ukraine struck an arsenal for the storage of missiles, ammunition and explosives in Toropets, a historic town, located more than 300 miles north of Ukraine and about 230 miles west of Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-russian-army-to-become-second-largest-after-chinas-at-15-million-strong-759355"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Putin orders Russian army to become second largest after China's at 1.5 million-strong</strong></a></p>

<p>The Ukrainian strike was part of a broader drone campaign by Kyiv, targeting Russian oil refineries, power plants, airfields and military factories. It further highlights Kyiv's enhanced long-range drone capabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The earthquake monitoring stations picked it up, with its sensors registering what it thought was a minor earthquake in the area.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Tver region&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A report by Ukrainska Pravda said&nbsp;that the operation was conducted by the Ukrainian security service along&nbsp;with the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine and the Special Operations Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia to NATO: Kremlin vows powerful retaliation for deep strikes</strong></p>

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<p>Russia's defence ministry said 54 Ukrainian drones targeted five western Russian regions overnight, adding that all of them were destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Igor Rudenya, the governor of Russia’s Tver region, said firefighters there were trying to contain a fire and that some residents were being evacuated from their homes. Rudenya added that wreckage from a destroyed Ukrainian drone had sparked a fire, however, did not say what was burning.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's counter-offensive in Kursk region 'stopped'</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesman from Ukraine's military administration set up in the Kursk region said that Russia's counter-offensive to retake territory captured by Ukrainian forces in the region has been "stopped".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They tried to attack from the flanks, but they were stopped there," spokesman Oleksiy Dmytrashkivsky, told news agency&nbsp;AFP, adding, "The situation was stabilised and today everything is under control, they are not successful."</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on, a Ukrainian drone attack on a large Russian weapons depot, caused a major blast and triggered an earthquake monitoring station.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on, a Ukrainian drone attack on a large Russian weapons depot, caused a major blast and triggered an earthquake monitoring station. It was one of the biggest strikes on Moscow's military arsenal since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to the pro-Russian military bloggers, Ukraine struck an arsenal for the storage of missiles, ammunition and explosives in Toropets, a historic town, located more than 300 miles north of Ukraine and about 230 miles west of Moscow. Also read: Putin orders Russian army to become second largest after China's at 1.5 million-strong The Ukrainian strike was part of a broader drone campaign by Kyiv, targeting Russian oil refineries, power plants, airfields and military factories. It further highlights Kyiv's enhanced long-range drone capabilities. The earthquake monitoring stations picked it up, with its sensors registering what it thought was a minor earthquake in the area. Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Tver region A report by Ukrainska Pravda said that the operation was conducted by the Ukrainian security service along with the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine and the Special Operations Force. Watch | Russia to NATO: Kremlin vows powerful retaliation for deep strikes × Russia's defence ministry said 54 Ukrainian drones targeted five western Russian regions overnight, adding that all of them were destroyed. Igor Rudenya, the governor of Russia’s Tver region, said firefighters there were trying to contain a fire and that some residents were being evacuated from their homes. Rudenya added that wreckage from a destroyed Ukrainian drone had sparked a fire, however, did not say what was burning. Russia's counter-offensive in Kursk region 'stopped' A spokesman from Ukraine's military administration set up in the Kursk region said that Russia's counter-offensive to retake territory captured by Ukrainian forces in the region has been "stopped". "They tried to attack from the flanks, but they were stopped there," spokesman Oleksiy Dmytrashkivsky, told news agency AFP, adding, "The situation was stabilised and today everything is under control, they are not successful." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Earthquake monitors triggered after Ukraine's drone attack on arsenal in Russia's Tver region

<p>Japan has only 13 female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across approximately 1,600 top-listed companies in the country, a survey by Tokyo-based Kyodo News revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The survey highlights that the Asian country is still struggling to increase diversity among its corporate decision-makers.</p>

<p>According to the survey, women lead just 0.8 per cent of the 1643 firms listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's top-tier prime market. The data is based on investigations of fiscal 2023 financial statements released by the end of August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The declining number also underlines the uphill struggle Japan's government faces in reaching its target of having women in at least 30 per cent of executive roles by the end of the decade.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/japan-offers-women-4200-to-marry-rural-men-quickly-suspends-plan-758083"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Japan offers women $4,200 to marry rural men, quickly suspends plan</strong></a></p>

<p>Ryusuke Ishii, a manager at the Japan Research Institute, said that the lack of progress in appointing female CEOs is due partly to the hiring of top officers from outside businesses rather than promoting internally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even after former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that he would "create a society in which all women shine", the country continues to be low in international gender comparisons of politics and business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research further highlighted that the number of female board members exceeded 3,000, doubling from fiscal 2019. It underscores that Japanese companies have been progressing in promoting women to top roles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Japan: Tokyo Electric Power Company Suspends Operations At Fukushima Plant</strong></p>

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<p>Apart from the 29 firms that have been listed at the market's top tier for less than five years, the number of female CEOs at 1,614 Prime Market companies remained at between seven and nine for three years through fiscal 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To further increase the number of female executives in the sector, the Japanese government has asked top-listed firms to raise the proportion of female executives to 30 per cent or more by 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, the figure increased to 16.2 per cent or 3,052 women, up from 1,502 in fiscal 2019.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan has only 13 female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across approximately 1,600 top-listed companies in the country, a survey by Tokyo-based Kyodo News revealed.

Japan has only 13 female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across approximately 1,600 top-listed companies in the country, a survey by Tokyo-based Kyodo News revealed. The survey highlights that the Asian country is still struggling to increase diversity among its corporate decision-makers. According to the survey, women lead just 0.8 per cent of the 1643 firms listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's top-tier prime market. The data is based on investigations of fiscal 2023 financial statements released by the end of August. The declining number also underlines the uphill struggle Japan's government faces in reaching its target of having women in at least 30 per cent of executive roles by the end of the decade. Also read: Japan offers women $4,200 to marry rural men, quickly suspends plan Ryusuke Ishii, a manager at the Japan Research Institute, said that the lack of progress in appointing female CEOs is due partly to the hiring of top officers from outside businesses rather than promoting internally. Even after former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that he would "create a society in which all women shine", the country continues to be low in international gender comparisons of politics and business. The research further highlighted that the number of female board members exceeded 3,000, doubling from fiscal 2019. It underscores that Japanese companies have been progressing in promoting women to top roles. Watch | Japan: Tokyo Electric Power Company Suspends Operations At Fukushima Plant × Apart from the 29 firms that have been listed at the market's top tier for less than five years, the number of female CEOs at 1,614 Prime Market companies remained at between seven and nine for three years through fiscal 2022. To further increase the number of female executives in the sector, the Japanese government has asked top-listed firms to raise the proportion of female executives to 30 per cent or more by 2030. Last year, the figure increased to 16.2 per cent or 3,052 women, up from 1,502 in fiscal 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Only 13 female CEOs among top 1,600 companies in Japan, reveals survey

<p>Hundreds of people marched across France on Saturday (Sep 14) in solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a woman whose husband is currently on trial on charges of drugging her and recruiting dozens of strangers to rape her for over&nbsp;a decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Feminist associations have called for nearly 30 gatherings in multiple cities across France, from Marseille to Paris. In the French capital, at the Place de la Republique dozens gathered with banners that read "Support to Gisele," "Shame Must Change Camp,” and “Victims We believe you”.</p>

<p>The case has shaken the whole nation since the matter came out earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pelicot, 72, has become a symbol of courage and resilience and of the fight against sexual violence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-rape-horror-monstrous-husband-says-wife-refused-to-try-swinging-forced-him-to-commit-heinous-crime-757281"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;France rape horror: Monstrous husband says wife refused to try 'swinging', forced him to commit heinous crime</strong></a></p>

<p>Her lawyers said that she was the one who decided to forgo a private trial and instead insisted on a public trial, due to run until December, to alert the public to sexual abuse and drug-indicted blackouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 71-year-old Dominique Pelicot has been accused of repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily intoxicated wife in their home over a decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, he was due to testify this week but was excused due to his ill health. He is scheduled to testify on Monday (Sep 16).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele</strong></p>

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<p>Feminist Fatima Benomar from the “Coudes a Coudes” association told BFM TV, "We thank her a thousand times for her enormous courage", adding that the gatherings were also to pay tribute to all rape victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pelicot's lawyer Beatrice Zavarro told French media that he has admitted to his crimes. Some of the other defendants have admitted their guilt while others say they thought the wife had pretended to be asleep, according to French media.</p>

<p>All the accused face up to 20 years each in prison if found guilty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hundreds of people marched across France on Saturday (Sep 14) in solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a woman whose husband is currently on trial on charges of drugging her and recruiting dozens of strangers to rape her for over a decade.

Hundreds of people marched across France on Saturday (Sep 14) in solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a woman whose husband is currently on trial on charges of drugging her and recruiting dozens of strangers to rape her for over a decade. Feminist associations have called for nearly 30 gatherings in multiple cities across France, from Marseille to Paris. In the French capital, at the Place de la Republique dozens gathered with banners that read "Support to Gisele," "Shame Must Change Camp,” and “Victims We believe you”. The case has shaken the whole nation since the matter came out earlier this month. Pelicot, 72, has become a symbol of courage and resilience and of the fight against sexual violence. Also read: France rape horror: Monstrous husband says wife refused to try 'swinging', forced him to commit heinous crime Her lawyers said that she was the one who decided to forgo a private trial and instead insisted on a public trial, due to run until December, to alert the public to sexual abuse and drug-indicted blackouts. The 71-year-old Dominique Pelicot has been accused of repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily intoxicated wife in their home over a decade. Initially, he was due to testify this week but was excused due to his ill health. He is scheduled to testify on Monday (Sep 16). Watch | France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele × Feminist Fatima Benomar from the “Coudes a Coudes” association told BFM TV, "We thank her a thousand times for her enormous courage", adding that the gatherings were also to pay tribute to all rape victims. Pelicot's lawyer Beatrice Zavarro told French media that he has admitted to his crimes. Some of the other defendants have admitted their guilt while others say they thought the wife had pretended to be asleep, according to French media. All the accused face up to 20 years each in prison if found guilty. (With inputs from agencies)

'Drugged and raped for decades,' Hundreds gather in support of Gisele Pelicot in France

<p>External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Friday (Sep 13), shared his personal experience in connection with a hijacking incident of 1984, saying that he was a young officer in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and while serving, he found out that his father was on the&nbsp;hijacked plane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar was speaking at a community event on Friday in Geneva, Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He revealed this while&nbsp;answering&nbsp;questions about the recently released Netflix series on the 1999 hijacking of flight IC814.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about his opinion on the Netflix series <em>IC814: The Kandahar Hijack</em>, which according to the questioner, portrayed the government and bureaucracy "in poor light" during the crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said, "In 1984 there was a hijacking", and continued explaining how as a young officer, he was part of the team tasked with handling the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EAM further explained how he was part of the team tasked with handling the situation, adding that as a son, he faced the surreal situation of discovering that his father was one of the passengers on the hijacked flight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I rang up my mother, actually, to tell her, 'Look, I can't come. There's a hijacking,'" he recalled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And then I discovered, my father was on the flight," he said, speaking of his father, K. Subrahmanyam, a senior IAS officer and a well-known commentator on strategic issues.</p>

<p>The flight, travelling from New Delhi to Srinagar was hijacked mid-air and was taken to Dubai. Later, the crisis ended&nbsp;with all passengers, including Jaishankar's father, released unharmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Friday (Sep 13), shared his personal experience in connection with a hijacking incident of 1984, saying that he was a young officer in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and while serving, he found out that his father was on the hijacked plane.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Friday (Sep 13), shared his personal experience in connection with a hijacking incident of 1984, saying that he was a young officer in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and while serving, he found out that his father was on the hijacked plane. Jaishankar was speaking at a community event on Friday in Geneva, Switzerland. He revealed this while answering questions about the recently released Netflix series on the 1999 hijacking of flight IC814. When asked about his opinion on the Netflix series IC814: The Kandahar Hijack, which according to the questioner, portrayed the government and bureaucracy "in poor light" during the crisis. Jaishankar said, "In 1984 there was a hijacking", and continued explaining how as a young officer, he was part of the team tasked with handling the situation. The EAM further explained how he was part of the team tasked with handling the situation, adding that as a son, he faced the surreal situation of discovering that his father was one of the passengers on the hijacked flight. "I rang up my mother, actually, to tell her, 'Look, I can't come. There's a hijacking,'" he recalled. "And then I discovered, my father was on the flight," he said, speaking of his father, K. Subrahmanyam, a senior IAS officer and a well-known commentator on strategic issues. The flight, travelling from New Delhi to Srinagar was hijacked mid-air and was taken to Dubai. Later, the crisis ended with all passengers, including Jaishankar's father, released unharmed. (With inputs from agencies)

'Father was on hijacked plane,' EAM Jaishankar recalls IC 814 controversy

<p>China has announced that the country will "gradually raise" its retirement age for the first time since the 1950s, as the country confronts an ageing population and a low pension budget.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The top legislative body of China, on Friday (Sep 13), approved proposals to raise the statutory retirement age from 50 to 55 for women in blue-collar jobs, and from 55 to 58 for women in white-collar jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the&nbsp;retirement age&nbsp;will be raised&nbsp;from 60 to 63.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delayed-retirements-chinas-answer-to-pension-woes-743973"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Delayed retirements: China's answer to pension woes</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, China's current retirement age is among the lowest in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the plan passed on Friday, the change will begin from January 1, 2025, with the respective retirement ages raised every few months over the next 15 years, the state media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to China's state media Xinhua, retiring before the statutory age will not be allowed, however, people can delay their retirement by no more than three years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping to China's women: 'Marry early, have children, retire late'</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier in 2019, the state-run Chinese Academy of Social Sciences said that the country's main state pension fund would be out of money by 2035.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In order to receive pensions, employees will also have to contribute more to the social security system from 2030. By 2039, they would have to clock 20 years of contributions to access their pensions.</p>

<p>The proposal to increase retirement ages was based on &nbsp;"a comprehensive assessment of the average life expectancy, health conditions, the population structure, the level of education and workforce supply in China," Xinhua reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens criticise the plan</strong></h2>

<p>However, the plan has triggered scepticism and discontent on Chinese social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the next 10 years, there will be another bill that will delay retirement until we are 80," one user wrote on the Chinese social media site Weibo.</p>

<p>"What a miserable year! Middle-aged workers are faced with pay cuts and raised retirement ages. Those who are unemployed find it increasingly difficult to get jobs," another user said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Men in most European countries retire when they are 65 or 67, while women do at 60. This is going to be the trend in our country as well," one Weibo user said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China has announced that the country will "gradually raise" its retirement age for the first time since the 1950s, as the country confronts an ageing population and a low pension budget.

China has announced that the country will "gradually raise" its retirement age for the first time since the 1950s, as the country confronts an ageing population and a low pension budget. The top legislative body of China, on Friday (Sep 13), approved proposals to raise the statutory retirement age from 50 to 55 for women in blue-collar jobs, and from 55 to 58 for women in white-collar jobs. Meanwhile, the retirement age will be raised from 60 to 63. Also read: Delayed retirements: China's answer to pension woes Notably, China's current retirement age is among the lowest in the world. According to the plan passed on Friday, the change will begin from January 1, 2025, with the respective retirement ages raised every few months over the next 15 years, the state media reported. According to China's state media Xinhua, retiring before the statutory age will not be allowed, however, people can delay their retirement by no more than three years. Watch | Xi Jinping to China's women: 'Marry early, have children, retire late' × Earlier in 2019, the state-run Chinese Academy of Social Sciences said that the country's main state pension fund would be out of money by 2035. In order to receive pensions, employees will also have to contribute more to the social security system from 2030. By 2039, they would have to clock 20 years of contributions to access their pensions. The proposal to increase retirement ages was based on "a comprehensive assessment of the average life expectancy, health conditions, the population structure, the level of education and workforce supply in China," Xinhua reported. Netizens criticise the plan However, the plan has triggered scepticism and discontent on Chinese social media. "In the next 10 years, there will be another bill that will delay retirement until we are 80," one user wrote on the Chinese social media site Weibo. "What a miserable year! Middle-aged workers are faced with pay cuts and raised retirement ages. Those who are unemployed find it increasingly difficult to get jobs," another user said. "Men in most European countries retire when they are 65 or 67, while women do at 60. This is going to be the trend in our country as well," one Weibo user said. (With inputs from agencies)

China raises retirement age for first time in 70 years amid low pension budget

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