<p>Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and&nbsp;Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China in Beijing.&nbsp;The talks were held for the first time in five years after tensions soared between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both leaders met according to the decision taken during the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan for them to meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace and&nbsp; tranquillity in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question.</p>

<p>Doval and Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining a political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship and seeking a fair and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ready-to-work-with-india-says-chinese-envoy-as-nsa-doval-meets-wang-yi-in-beijing-784988"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing</strong></a></p>

<p>The representatives "positively affirmed the implementation of the latest disengagement agreement of October 2024, resulting in patrolling and grazing in relevant areas," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They further underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote the overall development of the relationship between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They emphasised the need to ensure peaceful conditions on the ground so that issues on the border do not hold back the normal development of bilateral relations," the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, based on the events of 2020, both representatives also discussed various measures to maintain peace on the border and advance effective management.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue</strong></p>

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<p>They decided to use, coordinate, and guide the relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this purpose.</p>

<p>Further, both the representatives provided a green signal for cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, and border trade.</p>

<p>The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China in Beijing.

Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China in Beijing. The talks were held for the first time in five years after tensions soared between the two nations. Both leaders met according to the decision taken during the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan for them to meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace and tranquillity in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question. Doval and Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining a political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship and seeking a fair and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question. Also read: 'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing The representatives "positively affirmed the implementation of the latest disengagement agreement of October 2024, resulting in patrolling and grazing in relevant areas," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. They further underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote the overall development of the relationship between the two countries. "They emphasised the need to ensure peaceful conditions on the ground so that issues on the border do not hold back the normal development of bilateral relations," the statement read. Moreover, based on the events of 2020, both representatives also discussed various measures to maintain peace on the border and advance effective management. Watch | India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue × They decided to use, coordinate, and guide the relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this purpose. Further, both the representatives provided a green signal for cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, and border trade. The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations. (With inputs from agencies)

India, China seek peace and tranquility on border, agree to resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

<p><span class="region">Beijing, China</span>
<p>Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China in Beijing. The talks were held for the first time in five years after tensions soared between the two nations. </p></p>
<p>Both leaders met according to the decision taken during the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan for them to meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace and  tranquillity in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question.</p>
<p>Doval and Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining a political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship and seeking a fair and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ready-to-work-with-india-says-chinese-envoy-as-nsa-doval-meets-wang-yi-in-beijing-784988"><strong>Also read: 'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing</strong></a></p>
<p>The representatives "positively affirmed the implementation of the latest disengagement agreement of October 2024, resulting in patrolling and grazing in relevant areas," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. </p>
<p>They further underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote the overall development of the relationship between the two countries. </p>
<p>"They emphasised the need to ensure peaceful conditions on the ground so that issues on the border do not hold back the normal development of bilateral relations," the statement read. </p>
<p>Moreover, based on the events of 2020, both representatives also discussed various measures to maintain peace on the border and advance effective management. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue</strong></p>
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<p>They decided to use, coordinate, and guide the relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this purpose.</p>
<p>Further, both the representatives provided a green signal for cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, and border trade.</p>
<p>The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Doval and Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining a political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship and seeking a fair and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question. 



Beijing, China Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China in Beijing. The talks were held for the first time in five years after tensions soared between the two nations. Both leaders met according to the decision taken during the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan for them to meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace and tranquillity in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question. Doval and Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining a political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship and seeking a fair and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question. Also read: 'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing The representatives "positively affirmed the implementation of the latest disengagement agreement of October 2024, resulting in patrolling and grazing in relevant areas," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. They further underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote the overall development of the relationship between the two countries. "They emphasised the need to ensure peaceful conditions on the ground so that issues on the border do not hold back the normal development of bilateral relations," the statement read. Moreover, based on the events of 2020, both representatives also discussed various measures to maintain peace on the border and advance effective management. Watch | India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue × They decided to use, coordinate, and guide the relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this purpose. Further, both the representatives provided a green signal for cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, and border trade. The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.</p>

<p>However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station.</p>

<p>"The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex."</p>

<h2><strong>Sunita Williams and her condition in space</strong></h2>

<p>William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/another-day-another-sleigh-sunita-williams-and-fellow-iss-crew-prepare-to-celebrate-christmas-in-space-784705"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space</strong></a></p>

<p>Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why was it delayed?</strong></h2>

<p>The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January."</p>

<p>Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts</strong></p>

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<p>After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025.

NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station. "The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex." Sunita Williams and her condition in space William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. Why was it delayed? The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January." Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.” Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts × After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams's return further delayed until March 2025. Here's why

<p><span class="region">Washington, United States</span>
<p>NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. </p></p>
<p>Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.</p>
<p>However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station.</p>
<p>"The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. </p>
<p>"NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. </p>
<p>They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex."</p>
<h2><strong>Sunita Williams and her condition in space</strong></h2>
<p>William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/another-day-another-sleigh-sunita-williams-and-fellow-iss-crew-prepare-to-celebrate-christmas-in-space-784705"><strong>Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space</strong></a></p>
<p>Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. </p>
<p>Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. </p>
<h2><strong>Why was it delayed?</strong></h2>
<p>The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January."</p>
<p>Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.”</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts</strong></p>
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<p>After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. 



Washington, United States NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station. "The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex." Sunita Williams and her condition in space William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. Why was it delayed? The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January." Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.” Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts × After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". </p></p>
<p>The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26.</p>
<p>The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-rail-roko-agitation-in-punjab-travellers-may-face-inconvenience-784880"><strong>Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience</strong></a></p>
<p>“He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. </p>
<p>This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. </p>
<p>The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. </p>
<p>"He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?</strong></p>
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<p>The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. </p>
<p>"We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. </p>
<p>Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers.</p>
<p>The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. 



New Delhi, India As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience “He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. "He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. "We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers. The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: SC warns Punjab govt if something happens to farmers 'entire state machinery to be blamed'

<p><span class="region">Maharashtra, India</span>
<p>A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, lost their lives, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. </p></p>
<p>Meanwhile, two others are critically injured. Around 101 people have been safely rescued by the authorities. </p>
<p>The Neelkamal ferry was on way to Elephanta Islands when the speed boat circled it before crashing into it. </p>
<p>The ferry had over 110 people on board, while the naval boat had six individuals, including two Navy personnel and four staff members, according to the reports. </p>
<p>The search operation is being conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships. </p>
<p>The videos of the incident soon went viral, showing ongoing rescue operations. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Boat capsizes near Mumbai's Gateway of India while en route to Elephanta Island; rescue operations underway</p>
<p>.</p>
<p>.</p>
<p>.</p>
<p>.</p>
<p>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GatewayOfIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GatewayOfIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElephantaIsland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElephantaIsland</a> <a href="https://t.co/FoPABoe8Ep">pic.twitter.com/FoPABoe8Ep</a></p>
<p>— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1869357031880274144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>The Mumbai Police, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) joined forces for the rescue mission.</p>
<p>Moreover, three police boats from the Yellow Gate Police Station and local fishing vessels also joined in aiding the efforts. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Tragedy Strikes As Ferry Dock Collapses In US</strong></p>
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<p>The cause of the incident is yet to be identified, as the authorities are involved in the rescue operation and locating the survivors.</p>
<h2><strong>Maharashtra CM reacts to incident</strong></h2>
<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police teams have been immediately dispatched for assistance. </p>
<p>"We are in constant touch with the district and police administration, and fortunately, most of the passengers have been rescued. However, rescue operations are still ongoing. Orders have been given to the district administration to deploy all necessary resources for the operation," he added. </p>
<p>He added that according to the preliminary information, five to seven people are still missing. "I will make a statement in the House as soon as I receive more detailed information."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meanwhile, two others are critically injured. Around 101 people have been safely rescued by the authorities. 



Maharashtra, India A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, lost their lives, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Meanwhile, two others are critically injured. Around 101 people have been safely rescued by the authorities. The Neelkamal ferry was on way to Elephanta Islands when the speed boat circled it before crashing into it. The ferry had over 110 people on board, while the naval boat had six individuals, including two Navy personnel and four staff members, according to the reports. The search operation is being conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships. The videos of the incident soon went viral, showing ongoing rescue operations. Boat capsizes near Mumbai's Gateway of India while en route to Elephanta Island; rescue operations underway . . . . .#Mumbai #GatewayOfIndia #ElephantaIsland pic.twitter.com/FoPABoe8Ep — WION (@WIONews) December 18, 2024 × The Mumbai Police, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) joined forces for the rescue mission. Moreover, three police boats from the Yellow Gate Police Station and local fishing vessels also joined in aiding the efforts. Watch | Tragedy Strikes As Ferry Dock Collapses In US × The cause of the incident is yet to be identified, as the authorities are involved in the rescue operation and locating the survivors. Maharashtra CM reacts to incident Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police teams have been immediately dispatched for assistance. "We are in constant touch with the district and police administration, and fortunately, most of the passengers have been rescued. However, rescue operations are still ongoing. Orders have been given to the district administration to deploy all necessary resources for the operation," he added. He added that according to the preliminary information, five to seven people are still missing. "I will make a statement in the House as soon as I receive more detailed information." (With inputs from agencies)

13 dead as Navy speed boat crashes into passenger ferry off Mumbai coast

<p><span class="region">Saudi Arabia</span>
<p>Kenyan single mothers in Saudi Arabia have been "trapped" in the country after being denied visas and birth certificates for their children in order to leave and return to their homeland. </p></p>
<p>Guardian spoke to five Kenyan women who explained their misery, saying that they have been unable to register the birth of their children as they were born outside marriage. </p>
<p>They said that they all fled abusive employers who then kept their identity documents. </p>
<p>The women complained that they have been trying to leave the country as their children are unable to get enrolled in schools in Saudi Arabia without the documents. They added that they have also been told that exit visas cannot be processed because they have "stateless" children. </p>
<p>In Saudi Arabia, having sex outside marriage is a crime as per the Islamic laws. However, the human rights groups said that women are disproportionately charged for this since resulting pregnancies are considered evidence. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-military-chief-visits-iran-for-rare-high-level-defence-talks-775058"><strong>Also read: Saudi military chief visits Iran for rare high-level defence talks</strong></a></p>
<p>Moreover, survivors of rape or sex trafficking can be deemed to have confessed to extramarital sex and prosecuted.</p>
<p>Children born outside the marriage in Saudi Arabia are not entitled to birth certificates. Additionally, their undocumented status means that they cannot access basic rights and services, including medical care and education, and are also not allowed to travel outside the Kingdom. </p>
<p>These five women interviewed by Guardian shared that they had pregnancies during relationships with fellow migrant workers. </p>
<p>Hence, all these women became single mothers, meanwhile, some said that they were abandoned by their child's fathers because they feared getting arrested for having extramarital sex. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Saudi Arabia welcomes deal between Yemeni government, Houthis</strong></p>
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<p>Fatima, a migrant from Kenya who came to Saudi Arabia to be a domestic worker, said staff at her nearest hospital in the Saudi capital Riyadh threatened to call the police when she rushed there with labour pains, the Guardian reported. </p>
<p>“They said they would send me to jail if I didn’t bring [the necessary] documents. I was so afraid to go to jail with labour pains. I pretended like I was strolling around the hospital. Then, I just walked out of the gate and went back to my house," she said. </p>
<p>Fatima entered her accommodation in Riyadh, and gave birth to a son just five minutes after that. "I cut the umbilical cord and cleaned myself. I cleaned my baby and wrapped him in a blanket. It was scary, but I just had to do it. There was nobody else to help me.”</p>
<p>She added that she ran away from her employer's home because he was sexually assaulting her and was physically abusive. Moreover, the employer also seized her passport. </p>
<p>Moreover, she said that she has been trying to leave Saudi Arabia for the past two years because her son, who has now turned eight, has been unable to go to school. </p>
<p>“The authorities here are not too concerned about the babies and their mothers,” Fatima said. </p>
<p>Earlier in April, Fatima also staged a public protest in the Manfuhah neighbourhood in Riyadh, along with a group of other migrant mothers. However, protests are illegal in Saudi Arabia and punishable by imprisonment. </p>
<p>“We want our kids to go to school. They’re missing a lot in their early childhood education. It’s very important, and our babies are missing that opportunity.”</p>
<p>Meanwhile, migrant rights experts have estimated that the number of cases of stateless children born outside marriage in Gulf countries is in thousands, adding that every child has a right to identity and protection, regardless of how and when they were born. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Guardian spoke to five Kenyan women who explained their misery, saying that they have been unable to register the birth of their children as they were born outside marriage. 



Saudi Arabia Kenyan single mothers in Saudi Arabia have been "trapped" in the country after being denied visas and birth certificates for their children in order to leave and return to their homeland. Guardian spoke to five Kenyan women who explained their misery, saying that they have been unable to register the birth of their children as they were born outside marriage. They said that they all fled abusive employers who then kept their identity documents. The women complained that they have been trying to leave the country as their children are unable to get enrolled in schools in Saudi Arabia without the documents. They added that they have also been told that exit visas cannot be processed because they have "stateless" children. In Saudi Arabia, having sex outside marriage is a crime as per the Islamic laws. However, the human rights groups said that women are disproportionately charged for this since resulting pregnancies are considered evidence. Also read: Saudi military chief visits Iran for rare high-level defence talks Moreover, survivors of rape or sex trafficking can be deemed to have confessed to extramarital sex and prosecuted. Children born outside the marriage in Saudi Arabia are not entitled to birth certificates. Additionally, their undocumented status means that they cannot access basic rights and services, including medical care and education, and are also not allowed to travel outside the Kingdom. These five women interviewed by Guardian shared that they had pregnancies during relationships with fellow migrant workers. Hence, all these women became single mothers, meanwhile, some said that they were abandoned by their child's fathers because they feared getting arrested for having extramarital sex. Watch | Saudi Arabia welcomes deal between Yemeni government, Houthis × Fatima, a migrant from Kenya who came to Saudi Arabia to be a domestic worker, said staff at her nearest hospital in the Saudi capital Riyadh threatened to call the police when she rushed there with labour pains, the Guardian reported. “They said they would send me to jail if I didn’t bring [the necessary] documents. I was so afraid to go to jail with labour pains. I pretended like I was strolling around the hospital. Then, I just walked out of the gate and went back to my house," she said. Fatima entered her accommodation in Riyadh, and gave birth to a son just five minutes after that. "I cut the umbilical cord and cleaned myself. I cleaned my baby and wrapped him in a blanket. It was scary, but I just had to do it. There was nobody else to help me.” She added that she ran away from her employer's home because he was sexually assaulting her and was physically abusive. Moreover, the employer also seized her passport. Moreover, she said that she has been trying to leave Saudi Arabia for the past two years because her son, who has now turned eight, has been unable to go to school. “The authorities here are not too concerned about the babies and their mothers,” Fatima said. Earlier in April, Fatima also staged a public protest in the Manfuhah neighbourhood in Riyadh, along with a group of other migrant mothers. However, protests are illegal in Saudi Arabia and punishable by imprisonment. “We want our kids to go to school. They’re missing a lot in their early childhood education. It’s very important, and our babies are missing that opportunity.” Meanwhile, migrant rights experts have estimated that the number of cases of stateless children born outside marriage in Gulf countries is in thousands, adding that every child has a right to identity and protection, regardless of how and when they were born. (With inputs from agencies)

Kenyan single mothers 'trapped' in Saudi Arabia as visas are denied to 'stateless' children

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said on Wednesday (Dec 18) that China is ready to work with India on the core interests and major concerns of both nations.</p></p>
<p>The statement comes ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing to discuss the management of peace along the Line of Actual Control. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-nsa-ajit-doval-china-fm-wang-yi-hold-vital-talks-on-peace-along-lac-784914"><strong>Also read: India NSA Ajit Doval, China FM Wang Yi hold vital talks on peace along LAC</strong></a></p>
<p>The Chinese ambassador emphasised that China will work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries and strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication. </p>
<p>"China is ready to work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of China and India, respect each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication, properly settle differences with sincerity and good faith, and bring bilateral relations back to the track of stable and healthy development as soon as possible," the ambassador said in a post on X. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">China is ready to work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of China and India, respect each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication, properly settle differences with… <a href="https://t.co/GxEnBPfWnV">pic.twitter.com/GxEnBPfWnV</a></p>
<p>— Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1869308280545411247?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>During the meeting held on Wednesday, Doval and Wang Yi discussed the restoration of ties between New Delhi and Beijing, which have been frozen for over four years due to the military standoff in eastern Ladakh.</p>
<p>The Indian National Security Adviser arrived in China on Tuesday to take part in the 23rd round of the Special Representatives' talks. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue</strong></p>
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<p>These vital talks are being held after a gap of five years, with the last edition being held in 2019. </p>
<p>The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Chinese ambassador emphasised that China will work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries and strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication. 



New Delhi, India Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, said on Wednesday (Dec 18) that China is ready to work with India on the core interests and major concerns of both nations. The statement comes ahead of Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval's meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing to discuss the management of peace along the Line of Actual Control. Also read: India NSA Ajit Doval, China FM Wang Yi hold vital talks on peace along LAC The Chinese ambassador emphasised that China will work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries and strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication. "China is ready to work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of China and India, respect each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication, properly settle differences with sincerity and good faith, and bring bilateral relations back to the track of stable and healthy development as soon as possible," the ambassador said in a post on X. China is ready to work with India to implement the important common understandings between the leaders of China and India, respect each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen mutual trust through dialogue and communication, properly settle differences with… pic.twitter.com/GxEnBPfWnV — Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) December 18, 2024 × During the meeting held on Wednesday, Doval and Wang Yi discussed the restoration of ties between New Delhi and Beijing, which have been frozen for over four years due to the military standoff in eastern Ladakh. The Indian National Security Adviser arrived in China on Tuesday to take part in the 23rd round of the Special Representatives' talks. Watch | India-China to Hold Special Representatives Dialogue × These vital talks are being held after a gap of five years, with the last edition being held in 2019. The border standoff between India and China began in eastern Ladakh along the LAC in 2020 and was sparked by Chinese military actions. It led to prolonged tensions between the two nations, significantly straining their relations. (With inputs from agencies)

'China ready to work with India,' says Chinese envoy as NSA Doval meets Wang Yi in Beijing

<p>Nigeria's anti-graft agency said it had arrested 792 suspects in a raid on a building believed to be a hub for fraudsters who lured victims with offers of romance, then pressed them to hand over cash for phony cryptocurrency investments.</p>

<p>The suspects, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were detained on December&nbsp;10 at the seven-storey Big Leaf Building in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said.</p>

<p>The luxury building housed a call centre mostly targeting victims from the Americas and Europe, he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyber-slavery-thousands-of-indians-are-trapped-and-tens-of-thousands-have-gone-missing-in-south-asia-763178"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia</strong></a></p>

<p>Staff there would make contact with people through social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, then seduce them online or offer them apparently lucrative investment opportunities, Uwujaren told reporters.</p>

<p>Once victims were hooked, they were pressured to transfer money for fake cryptocurrency schemes and other non-existent projects.</p>

<p>"Nigerian accomplices were recruited by the foreign kingpins to prospect for victims online through phishing, targeting mostly Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and several others from European countries," Uwujaren said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran</strong></p>

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<p>"Once the Nigerians are able to win the confidence of would-be victims, the foreigners would take over the actual task of defrauding the victims," he said.</p>

<p>Uwujaren said the Commission was collaborating with international partners and would look into potential links to organised crime. Its agents seized computers, phones, and vehicles in the raid, he added.</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 audience</em>.</p>


Nigeria's anti-graft agency said it had arrested 792 suspects in a raid on a building believed to be a hub for fraudsters who lured victims with offers of romance, then pressed them to hand over cash for phony cryptocurrency investments.

Nigeria's anti-graft agency said it had arrested 792 suspects in a raid on a building believed to be a hub for fraudsters who lured victims with offers of romance, then pressed them to hand over cash for phony cryptocurrency investments. The suspects, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were detained on December 10 at the seven-storey Big Leaf Building in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said. The luxury building housed a call centre mostly targeting victims from the Americas and Europe, he added. Also read: Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia Staff there would make contact with people through social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, then seduce them online or offer them apparently lucrative investment opportunities, Uwujaren told reporters. Once victims were hooked, they were pressured to transfer money for fake cryptocurrency schemes and other non-existent projects. "Nigerian accomplices were recruited by the foreign kingpins to prospect for victims online through phishing, targeting mostly Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and several others from European countries," Uwujaren said. Watch | ‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran × "Once the Nigerians are able to win the confidence of would-be victims, the foreigners would take over the actual task of defrauding the victims," he said. Uwujaren said the Commission was collaborating with international partners and would look into potential links to organised crime. Its agents seized computers, phones, and vehicles in the raid, he added. 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.

Almost 800 arrested in Nigeria over crypto-romance scam

<p>Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.</p>

<p>Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.</p>

<p>On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor."</p>

<p>She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-court-ruling-bars-ex-leader-morales-from-presidency-774796"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency</strong></a></p>

<p>Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback.</p>

<p>Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States.</p>

<p>"I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote.</p>

<p>Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police.</p>

<h2><strong>'Climbing the political ladder'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term.</p>

<p>In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking.</p>

<p>They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter."</p>

<p>The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October.</p>

<p>Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bolivians Struggle As Fuel &amp; Food Prices Skyrocket</strong></p>

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<p>Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters.</p>

<p>Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest.</p>

<p>The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days.</p>

<h2><strong>Eyeing third term&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters.</p>

<p>At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head.</p>

<p>The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint.</p>

<p>Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction.</p>

<p>Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later.</p>

<p>Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections.</p>

<p>In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies.</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>


Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.

Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office. Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl. On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor." She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months. Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback. Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States. "I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote. Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police. 'Climbing the political ladder' A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term. In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking. They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter." The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October. Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel & Food Prices Skyrocket × Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters. Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest. The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days. Eyeing third term Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters. At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head. The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint. Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction. Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later. Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections. In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies. 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.

Bolivian ex-prez slams 'brutal judicial war' after arrest warrant issued against him in sexual abuse case

<p>As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26.</p>

<p>The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-rail-roko-agitation-in-punjab-travellers-may-face-inconvenience-784880"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience</strong></a></p>

<p>“He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?</strong></p>

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<p>The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers.</p>

<p>The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed".

As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience “He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. "He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. "We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers. The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, lost their lives, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, two others are critically injured. Around 101 people have been safely rescued by the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Neelkamal ferry&nbsp;was on way to Elephanta Islands&nbsp;when the speed boat circled it before crashing into it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ferry had over 110 people on board, while the naval boat had six individuals, including two Navy personnel and four staff members, according to the reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search operation is being conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The videos of the incident soon went viral, showing ongoing rescue operations.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Boat capsizes near Mumbai's Gateway of India while en route to Elephanta Island; rescue operations underway<br />
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GatewayOfIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GatewayOfIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElephantaIsland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElephantaIsland</a> <a href="https://t.co/FoPABoe8Ep">pic.twitter.com/FoPABoe8Ep</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1869357031880274144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Mumbai Police, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) joined forces for the rescue mission.</p>

<p>Moreover, three police boats from the Yellow Gate Police Station and local fishing vessels also joined in aiding the efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Tragedy Strikes As Ferry Dock Collapses In US</strong></p>

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<p>The cause of the incident is yet to be identified, as the authorities are involved in the rescue operation and locating the survivors.</p>

<h2><strong>Maharashtra CM reacts to incident</strong></h2>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police teams have been immediately dispatched for assistance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are in constant touch with the district and police administration, and fortunately, most of the passengers have been rescued. However, rescue operations are still ongoing. Orders have been given to the district administration to deploy all necessary resources for the operation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that according to the preliminary information, five to seven people are still missing. "I will make a statement in the House as soon as I receive more detailed information."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, lost their lives, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.

A passenger ferry with over 110 people capsized on Wednesday (Dec 18) near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the police said. 13 people, including 10 passengers and three Navy personnel, lost their lives, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Meanwhile, two others are critically injured. Around 101 people have been safely rescued by the authorities. The Neelkamal ferry was on way to Elephanta Islands when the speed boat circled it before crashing into it. The ferry had over 110 people on board, while the naval boat had six individuals, including two Navy personnel and four staff members, according to the reports. The search operation is being conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships. The videos of the incident soon went viral, showing ongoing rescue operations. Boat capsizes near Mumbai's Gateway of India while en route to Elephanta Island; rescue operations underway . . . . .#Mumbai #GatewayOfIndia #ElephantaIsland pic.twitter.com/FoPABoe8Ep — WION (@WIONews) December 18, 2024 × The Mumbai Police, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) joined forces for the rescue mission. Moreover, three police boats from the Yellow Gate Police Station and local fishing vessels also joined in aiding the efforts. Watch | Tragedy Strikes As Ferry Dock Collapses In US × The cause of the incident is yet to be identified, as the authorities are involved in the rescue operation and locating the survivors. Maharashtra CM reacts to incident Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police teams have been immediately dispatched for assistance. "We are in constant touch with the district and police administration, and fortunately, most of the passengers have been rescued. However, rescue operations are still ongoing. Orders have been given to the district administration to deploy all necessary resources for the operation," he added. He added that according to the preliminary information, five to seven people are still missing. "I will make a statement in the House as soon as I receive more detailed information." (With inputs from agencies)

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