<p>British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sara was hooded, burned, and beaten during a "campaign of torture" for two years by her father, stepmother and uncle. Her body was found at the family home in Woking, Surrey, in 2023.</p>

<p>Justice Cavanagh on Tuesday (Dec 17) described the treatment of Sara as "torture" and condemned the defendants for not showing a "shred of remorse".</p>

<p>Sara's father has been sentenced to a minimum of 40 years in prison for murder, her stepmother Beinash Batool, 30, received a minimum of 33 years, and her uncle Faisal Malik received 16 years of prison sentence for causing or allowing her death.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-case-father-stepmother-and-uncle-charged-with-10-year-olds-murder-in-uk-636114"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sara Sharif case: Father, stepmother and uncle charged with 10-year-old’s murder in UK</strong></a></p>

<p>Sara's mother, Olga Domin, in a statement read out in court, called the murderers "sadists", adding, "Although even this word is not enough for you. I would say you are executioners."</p>

<p>Further paying tribute to her daughter, she said, "She is now an angel who looks down on us from heaven. She is no longer experiencing violence. I hoped that when she grew up we would meet, but now that won't happen."</p>

<p>Prosecutor William Emlyn Jones KC said that the 10-year-old girl was subjected to serious violence from at least the age of six with a variety of weapons, including a cricket bat, an improvised metal truncheon made from the broken leg of a high chair, and a domestic iron.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 10-year-old Sara Sharif's father, stepmother &amp; uncle charged with murder</strong></p>

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<p>“This is a case involving a gross breach of trust because the deceased was the defendant’s own little child. In their care, she suffered this violence in her own home, where she ought to have been entitled to feel safe, loved, and cared for," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Sara's uncle was found not guilty of murder but was convicted of causing or allowing her death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the judge continued to speak in the court, his voice shook while describing some of the injuries suffered by Sara, calling the abuse as "nothing short of gruesome".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sara was found dead in her family home in Surrey on August 10 last year. Her father and stepmother killed her two days earlier and fled to Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, the prison term will take into account time served on remand, with a minimum term of 38 years and 272 days for Sharif and 31 years and 272 days for Batool.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Sara was hooded, burned, and beaten during a "campaign of torture" for two years by her father, stepmother and uncle.

British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Sara was hooded, burned, and beaten during a "campaign of torture" for two years by her father, stepmother and uncle. Her body was found at the family home in Woking, Surrey, in 2023. Justice Cavanagh on Tuesday (Dec 17) described the treatment of Sara as "torture" and condemned the defendants for not showing a "shred of remorse". Sara's father has been sentenced to a minimum of 40 years in prison for murder, her stepmother Beinash Batool, 30, received a minimum of 33 years, and her uncle Faisal Malik received 16 years of prison sentence for causing or allowing her death. Also read: Sara Sharif case: Father, stepmother and uncle charged with 10-year-old’s murder in UK Sara's mother, Olga Domin, in a statement read out in court, called the murderers "sadists", adding, "Although even this word is not enough for you. I would say you are executioners." Further paying tribute to her daughter, she said, "She is now an angel who looks down on us from heaven. She is no longer experiencing violence. I hoped that when she grew up we would meet, but now that won't happen." Prosecutor William Emlyn Jones KC said that the 10-year-old girl was subjected to serious violence from at least the age of six with a variety of weapons, including a cricket bat, an improvised metal truncheon made from the broken leg of a high chair, and a domestic iron. Watch | Gravitas: 10-year-old Sara Sharif's father, stepmother & uncle charged with murder × “This is a case involving a gross breach of trust because the deceased was the defendant’s own little child. In their care, she suffered this violence in her own home, where she ought to have been entitled to feel safe, loved, and cared for," she said. Meanwhile, Sara's uncle was found not guilty of murder but was convicted of causing or allowing her death. As the judge continued to speak in the court, his voice shook while describing some of the injuries suffered by Sara, calling the abuse as "nothing short of gruesome". Sara was found dead in her family home in Surrey on August 10 last year. Her father and stepmother killed her two days earlier and fled to Pakistan. Further, the prison term will take into account time served on remand, with a minimum term of 38 years and 272 days for Sharif and 31 years and 272 days for Batool. (With inputs from agencies)

Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her

<p>Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/igor-kirillov-the-russian-general-in-charge-of-nuclear-protection-forces-killed-in-explosion-in-moscow-784646"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces</strong></a></p>

<p>Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit.</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Igor Kirillov?</strong></h2>

<p>In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast</strong></p>

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<p>The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin".</p>

<p>Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.

Russian diplomat Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Kirillov was killed outside an apartment building along with his assistant when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter went off, said Russia's Investigative Committee, which probes serious crimes. According to the report, a bomb was hidden inside an e-scooter which was parked near the apartment building. Also read: 'Ukraine kills' Russian General Igor Kirillov who was in charge of nation's nuclear protection forces Later, Ukraine claimed responsibility for his killing and said that a Ukrainian intelligence agency had been behind the hit. Who was Igor Kirillov? In Russia, Kirillov was seen as a tireless patriot, fighting for the truth and exposing Western "crimes". He was also accused by the West of overseeing the use of chemical weapons in their war with Ukraine. He got popular for his offbeat briefings at the Russian defence ministry, which also provoked the UK Foreign Office to label him as a "significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation". He was much more than a mouthpiece, as he was heading Russia's Timoshenko Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Academy, before going on to lead the Russian army's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Troops in 2017. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Head Of Russia’s Nuclear Defence Forces Killed In Moscow Blast × The troops were responsible for identifying hazards and protecting units from contamination but also "causing loss to the enemy by using flame-incendiary means". The UK Foreign Office said that the force Kirillov commanded had deployed "barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine", stressing that it highlighted what according to them was the widespread use of riot control agents and "multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin". Kirillov got his notoriety since the beginning of Russia's war with Ukraine as he put forward certain claims directed towards both Ukraine and the West. However, these claims were not based on any facts. One of his outrageous claims was that the US had been building biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine. Last month, he also claimed that "one of the priority aims" of Ukraine's counter-offensive into Russia's Kursk border region was to seize the Kursk nuclear power plant. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief and a mouthpiece for exposing Western 'crimes'

<p><strong><em>Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.</em></strong></p>

<p>A teenager rammed his car into pedestrians, injuring four people, including a 55-year-old man and his seven-year-old grandson, in Delhi's Adarsh Nagar on Monday (Dec 16).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The driver was a 17-year-old boy who was later apprehended. Moreover, legal action has been taken against the owner of the vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said that a case under sections 281 (rash driving) and 125A (causing hurt by an act endangering the life of personal safety) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)&nbsp;has been registered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The car driven by the teenager rammed into half a dozen pedestrians.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India: Several injured as a driver loses control and crashes into pedestrians in Adarsh Nagar, Delhi.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AdarshNagar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AdarshNagar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Accident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Accident</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> <a href="https://t.co/CcBuLEtCa2">pic.twitter.com/CcBuLEtCa2</a></p>
— Ali Shunnaq 🖊️ ★彡 𝒜𝓁𝒾 彡★ (@schunnaq) <a href="https://twitter.com/schunnaq/status/1868980968494940586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>WION cannot verify the authenticity of the video</em></p>

<p>The 55-year-old has been identified as Rajesh and his grandson Mannat. Both of them were&nbsp;rushed to hospital and were in critical condition.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-minor-in-speeding-suv-runs-over-man-in-mumbais-goregaon-754518"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India: Minor in speeding SUV runs over man in Mumbai's Goregaon</strong></a></p>

<p>The incident was caught on CCTV, which then went viral on social media. According to the video, a white Hyundai Santro car rammed into people standing on a roadside. Rajesh was seen carrying his grandson in his lap when he was hit by the car.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four more people received minor injuries and required first aid, the police said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pune Porsche case: Bombay HC releases Pune Porsche crash minor accused</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Similar incidents</strong></p>

<p>Incidents like these involving minor drivers ramming vehicles into people on the roads have been happening for a long time now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, a 19-year-old driving a Porsche rammed the speeding vehicle into motorcycles parked along the footpath in Mumbai's Bandra area. Although no one&nbsp;was injured in the incident, the police booked the teenager Dhruv Gupta for rash and negligent driving.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accident was captured on a CCTV camera, and according to the footage, five people, including a woman, were sitting in the car.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A teenager rammed his car into pedestrians, injuring four people, including a 55-year-old man and his seven-year-old grandson, in Delhi's Adarsh Nagar on Monday (Dec 16).

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A teenager rammed his car into pedestrians, injuring four people, including a 55-year-old man and his seven-year-old grandson, in Delhi's Adarsh Nagar on Monday (Dec 16). The driver was a 17-year-old boy who was later apprehended. Moreover, legal action has been taken against the owner of the vehicle. The police said that a case under sections 281 (rash driving) and 125A (causing hurt by an act endangering the life of personal safety) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered. The car driven by the teenager rammed into half a dozen pedestrians. India: Several injured as a driver loses control and crashes into pedestrians in Adarsh Nagar, Delhi.#India #Delhi #AdarshNagar #Accident #BREAKING pic.twitter.com/CcBuLEtCa2 — Ali Shunnaq 🖊️ ★彡 𝒜𝓁𝒾 彡★ (@schunnaq) December 17, 2024 × WION cannot verify the authenticity of the video The 55-year-old has been identified as Rajesh and his grandson Mannat. Both of them were rushed to hospital and were in critical condition. Also read: India: Minor in speeding SUV runs over man in Mumbai's Goregaon The incident was caught on CCTV, which then went viral on social media. According to the video, a white Hyundai Santro car rammed into people standing on a roadside. Rajesh was seen carrying his grandson in his lap when he was hit by the car. Four more people received minor injuries and required first aid, the police said. Watch | Pune Porsche case: Bombay HC releases Pune Porsche crash minor accused × Similar incidents Incidents like these involving minor drivers ramming vehicles into people on the roads have been happening for a long time now. Earlier this month, a 19-year-old driving a Porsche rammed the speeding vehicle into motorcycles parked along the footpath in Mumbai's Bandra area. Although no one was injured in the incident, the police booked the teenager Dhruv Gupta for rash and negligent driving. The accident was captured on a CCTV camera, and according to the footage, five people, including a woman, were sitting in the car. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: 17-year-old rams car into pedestrians in Delhi's Adarsh Nagar, four injured

<p>One Nation One Election bill was admitted in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday afternoon (December 17) amid fierce condemnation from the opposition parties. 269 MPs voted in favour of the bill, while&nbsp;198 voted against it in the Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal introduced two bills that would allow simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and assemblies of states and Union Territories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the bill was introduced, it was&nbsp;sent to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed discussion.</p>

<p>The opposition slammed the bill introduced by the BJP, calling it "anti-constitutional" and an "attack on democracy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee said that this is nothing less than an unashamed attack on democracy, adding that the bill is seizing people's fundamental rights to vote regularly.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-slams-one-nation-one-election-bill-in-lok-sabha-784576"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha</strong></a></p>

<p>“The BJP’s brazen attempt to introduce a constitutional amendment bill today, while the constitution debate is still underway in Parliament, is nothing short of an unashamed attack on democracy. The One Nation One Election bill seeks to rob the people of their fundamental right to vote regularly,” Banerjee posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Anti-constitutional'</strong></h2>

<p>Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra termed the bill as "anti-constitutional", adding that it is against federalism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Anti-constitutional bill, it is against the federalism of our nation. We are opposing the bill,” Gandhi told reporters in Parliament premises.</p>

<h2><strong>'An attempt to remove regional parties from power'</strong></h2>

<p>Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) spokesperson TKS Elangovan also slammed the bill, alleging that it is unconstitutional and is an attempt to put one government in place and remove regional parties from power.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha</strong></p>

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<p>"One Nation One Election is not a practical bill. It is unconstitutional. They want one government. The BJP doesn’t want state governments. Do they have the majority to run the government for the next five years? This government will fall, we are waiting. The BJP is planning to remove Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu from politics and capture Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. Regional parties should understand that this is an attempt to remove them from power," Elangovan said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


One Nation One Election bill was admitted in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday afternoon (December 17) amid fierce condemnation from the opposition parties. 269 MPs voted in favour of the bill, while 198 voted against it in the Parliament.

One Nation One Election bill was admitted in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday afternoon (December 17) amid fierce condemnation from the opposition parties. 269 MPs voted in favour of the bill, while 198 voted against it in the Parliament. Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal introduced two bills that would allow simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and assemblies of states and Union Territories. After the bill was introduced, it was sent to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed discussion. The opposition slammed the bill introduced by the BJP, calling it "anti-constitutional" and an "attack on democracy". Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee said that this is nothing less than an unashamed attack on democracy, adding that the bill is seizing people's fundamental rights to vote regularly. Also read: 'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha “The BJP’s brazen attempt to introduce a constitutional amendment bill today, while the constitution debate is still underway in Parliament, is nothing short of an unashamed attack on democracy. The One Nation One Election bill seeks to rob the people of their fundamental right to vote regularly,” Banerjee posted on X. 'Anti-constitutional' Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra termed the bill as "anti-constitutional", adding that it is against federalism. “Anti-constitutional bill, it is against the federalism of our nation. We are opposing the bill,” Gandhi told reporters in Parliament premises. 'An attempt to remove regional parties from power' Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) spokesperson TKS Elangovan also slammed the bill, alleging that it is unconstitutional and is an attempt to put one government in place and remove regional parties from power. Watch | One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha × "One Nation One Election is not a practical bill. It is unconstitutional. They want one government. The BJP doesn’t want state governments. Do they have the majority to run the government for the next five years? This government will fall, we are waiting. The BJP is planning to remove Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu from politics and capture Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. Regional parties should understand that this is an attempt to remove them from power," Elangovan said. (With inputs from agencies)

One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose

<p><span class="region">Washington DC, US</span>
<p>Democratic party aides have been floating ideas for a Kamala Harris political comeback, looking forward to another run at the US's highest office even after Republican Donald Trump defeated Democratic Party nominee last month in the US Presidential elections. </p></p>
<p>Earlier also, Harris did not rule out a second run for the presidency and now has been reportedly considering a run for the California governorship, currently held by Gavin Newsom until 2027. </p>
<p>There were rumours that Newsom was also a presidential contender during this year's elections when Joe Biden stepped down from a rematch with Donald Trump. </p>
<p>Some Democratic party aides believe Trump has sufficiently overturned the norms of losing White House candidates' not attempting a second bite of the proverbial apple to give Harris the opportunity of a repeat bid in 2028, The Washington Post reported. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-where-did-kamala-harris-campaign-money-of-1-billion-go-776930"><strong>Also read: US election: Where did Kamala Harris' campaign money of $1 billion go?</strong></a></p>
<p>Donna Brazile, a Harris ally, Al Gore 2000 presidential campaign manager, and a political commentator, said, “Since Donald Trump has rewritten the rules—the norms—I don’t believe Kamala Harris or anyone should try to go with precedent, ever." </p>
<p>She added, "There are no rule books.”</p>
<p>“The rules potentially don’t apply this time, and she still absolutely could have a mulligan because of the unique circumstances of this race and the candidate switch," Molly Murphy, a pollster who worked on both the Biden and Harris campaigns said. “But I don’t think it will be a given.”</p>
<p>The Democratic Party has been shaping an argument, saying that her loss to Trump was not as comprehensive as has been popularly portrayed.</p>
<p><strong>Watch | US Elections 2024: 'Time To Roll Up Sleeves' Says Kamala Harris As She Concedes Defeat</strong></p>
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<p>One of the Harris advisors said, “She is ending this race in a very different place than other nominees that have lost. Her approval is higher. People were very happy with the race that she ran.”</p>
<p>However, Harris has not revealed her thoughts on this, but is said to be “processing” her loss and plans to “stay in the fight”. </p>
<p>“The fight that fueled our campaign – a fight for freedom and opportunity – that did not end on November 5,” Harris said on a call with donors and supporters in November. Reportedly, she used the word “fight” 19 times during that call. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Earlier also, Harris did not rule out a second run for the presidency and now has been reportedly considering a run for the California governorship, currently held by Gavin Newsom until 2027. 



Washington DC, US Democratic party aides have been floating ideas for a Kamala Harris political comeback, looking forward to another run at the US's highest office even after Republican Donald Trump defeated Democratic Party nominee last month in the US Presidential elections. Earlier also, Harris did not rule out a second run for the presidency and now has been reportedly considering a run for the California governorship, currently held by Gavin Newsom until 2027. There were rumours that Newsom was also a presidential contender during this year's elections when Joe Biden stepped down from a rematch with Donald Trump. Some Democratic party aides believe Trump has sufficiently overturned the norms of losing White House candidates' not attempting a second bite of the proverbial apple to give Harris the opportunity of a repeat bid in 2028, The Washington Post reported. Also read: US election: Where did Kamala Harris' campaign money of $1 billion go? Donna Brazile, a Harris ally, Al Gore 2000 presidential campaign manager, and a political commentator, said, “Since Donald Trump has rewritten the rules—the norms—I don’t believe Kamala Harris or anyone should try to go with precedent, ever." She added, "There are no rule books.” “The rules potentially don’t apply this time, and she still absolutely could have a mulligan because of the unique circumstances of this race and the candidate switch," Molly Murphy, a pollster who worked on both the Biden and Harris campaigns said. “But I don’t think it will be a given.” The Democratic Party has been shaping an argument, saying that her loss to Trump was not as comprehensive as has been popularly portrayed. Watch | US Elections 2024: 'Time To Roll Up Sleeves' Says Kamala Harris As She Concedes Defeat × One of the Harris advisors said, “She is ending this race in a very different place than other nominees that have lost. Her approval is higher. People were very happy with the race that she ran.” However, Harris has not revealed her thoughts on this, but is said to be “processing” her loss and plans to “stay in the fight”. “The fight that fueled our campaign – a fight for freedom and opportunity – that did not end on November 5,” Harris said on a call with donors and supporters in November. Reportedly, she used the word “fight” 19 times during that call. (With inputs from agencies)

Democrats eye Kamala Harris’ political comeback in 2028 presidential run and bid for California governor

<p><span class="region">Kyiv, Ukraine</span>
<p>Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. </p></p>
<p>Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. </p>
<p>The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. </p>
<p>They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-russia-using-noticeable-number-of-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-assaults-784053"><strong>Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults</strong></a></p>
<p>Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. </p>
<h2><strong>North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion'</strong></h2>
<p>The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". </p>
<p>"Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym.</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk</strong></p>
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<p>The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. </p>
<p>They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction."</p>
<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the 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</em></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The North Korean units were involved in assaults at the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. 



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border. Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion' The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". "Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk × The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the 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)

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region

<p><span class="region">Ottawa, Canada</span>
<p>Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. </p></p>
<p>In a statement shared on X, Freeland, who is also Canada's Finance Minister, stressed that the country is facing a grave challenge with the incoming Trump administration and their tariff threats. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">See my letter to the Prime Minister below // Veuillez trouver ma lettre au Premier ministre ci-dessous <a href="https://t.co/NMMMcXUh7A">pic.twitter.com/NMMMcXUh7A</a></p>
<p>— Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) <a href="https://twitter.com/cafreeland/status/1868659332285702167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Referring to Canadian PM Trudeau, she said, "For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada."</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Trump's Tariffs: A Trade Gamble With Mexico &amp; Canada | GRAVITAS</strong></p>
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<p><strong>'Country today faces grave challenge'</strong></p>
<p>"Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 per cent tariffs," the Deputy PM said. </p>
<p>She stressed, "We need to take that threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war."</p>
<p>Freeland added, "That means pushing back against 'America First' economic nationalism" with a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932"><strong>Also read: 'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat</strong></a></p>
<p>She further mentioned that PM Trudeau told her on Friday that he does not want her to serve as finance minister and offered her another position in the Cabinet.</p>
<p>"Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet," she said.</p>
<p>Freeland was first elected to parliament in 2013, however, she joined Trudeau's cabinet two years later when the Liberals swept to power. </p>
<p>The Canadian deputy PM announced her resignation just hours before she was due to deliver a fiscal and economic update in parliament, Bloomberg reported. </p>
<p>It still remains unclear whether that document will be released or not.  </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


She stressed that the country is facing a grave challenge with the incoming Trump administration and their tariff threats. 



Ottawa, Canada Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. In a statement shared on X, Freeland, who is also Canada's Finance Minister, stressed that the country is facing a grave challenge with the incoming Trump administration and their tariff threats. See my letter to the Prime Minister below // Veuillez trouver ma lettre au Premier ministre ci-dessous pic.twitter.com/NMMMcXUh7A — Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) December 16, 2024 × Referring to Canadian PM Trudeau, she said, "For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada." Watch | Trump's Tariffs: A Trade Gamble With Mexico & Canada | GRAVITAS × 'Country today faces grave challenge' "Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 per cent tariffs," the Deputy PM said. She stressed, "We need to take that threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war." Freeland added, "That means pushing back against 'America First' economic nationalism" with a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring. Also read: 'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat She further mentioned that PM Trudeau told her on Friday that he does not want her to serve as finance minister and offered her another position in the Cabinet. "Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet," she said. Freeland was first elected to parliament in 2013, however, she joined Trudeau's cabinet two years later when the Liberals swept to power. The Canadian deputy PM announced her resignation just hours before she was due to deliver a fiscal and economic update in parliament, Bloomberg reported. It still remains unclear whether that document will be released or not. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada's Deputy PM Freeland resigns over disagreements with Trudeau, says country facing grave challenge

<p><span class="region">Karnataka, India</span>
<p>As the probe in the Bengaluru techie suicide case continues, details have emerged that Nikita Singhania, the estranged wife of 34-year-old techie Atul Subhash, changed her location every day and made calls only on WhatsApp to not get caught by the police. </p></p>
<p>Nikita also constantly tried to secure anticipatory bail after the techie's family filed a suicide abetment case against her. </p>
<p>However, a mistake by her and one phone call gave her location away, and the Bengaluru Police tracked her down to Gurugram, police sources told Indian news agency IANS. </p>
<p>While she moved to a PG accommodation in Gurugram, her mother and brother hid in Jhusi town in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj district. They all communicated on WhatsApp calls. </p>
<p>But Nikita made one call, by mistake, to one of her close relatives. Following this, the police tracked the tower location and reached the PG accommodation in Gurugram's Rail Vihar, according to the sources. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atul-subhash-suicide-case-techies-wife-and-in-laws-arrested-by-police-784075"><strong>Also read: Atul Subhash suicide case: Bengaluru techie's wife and in-laws arrested by police</strong></a></p>
<p>The police then detained her and made her call her mother. When her mother received the call, police tracked them to Jhusi town and took them into custody. </p>
<p>Nikita was arrested from Gurugram, and at that time, her mother Nisha Singhania and brother Anurag Singhania were taken into custody by Prayagraj. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, Nikita's uncle Sushil Singhania, the fourth accused in the suicide abetment case, is still on the run. </p>
<p>Soon after the Bengaluru Police registered the case, the accused locked their home in Uttar Pradesh's Jaunpur and fled, the police sources said. </p>
<p>When the police reached Jaunpur, they pasted notices on their home, asking them to appear within three days. </p>
<p>The Bengaluru Police also made a list of the family's close relatives and kept an eye on them. </p>
<p>However, the accused only made calls on WhatsApp, which made it difficult for the police to track them. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Atul Subash Case: Father Demands Justice As Search For Estranged Wife Continues</strong></p>
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<p>The Singhanias also pleaded for anticipatory bail in the Allahabad High Court. </p>
<h2><strong>'Key challenge'</strong></h2>
<p>The key challenge in taking all three accused to Bengaluru was to ensure that co-passengers did not recognise Nikita during the journey during the late-night flight. </p>
<p>The three accused were taken to Bengaluru on a late-night flight, the police said, adding that they were extremely cautious in ensuring that the news of their detention was not out before reaching Bengaluru. </p>
<p>If the news had leaked, it would have created huge chaos, as the suicide of Atul Subhash has created a nationwide outrage. </p>
<h2><strong>'Never harassed Atul'</strong></h2>
<p>While being interrogated, Nikita said that she never harassed Atul and was in fact harassed by him. She further said that she would not have left their home if she wanted money. </p>
<p>The arrests were made days after the 34-year-old techie accused Nikita and her family of extortion and harassment in an over-an-hour-long video and died by suicide.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nikita made a mistake when she made a phone call that gave away her location, and the Bengaluru police tracked her down to Gurugram, police sources told Indian news agency IANS. 



Karnataka, India As the probe in the Bengaluru techie suicide case continues, details have emerged that Nikita Singhania, the estranged wife of 34-year-old techie Atul Subhash, changed her location every day and made calls only on WhatsApp to not get caught by the police. Nikita also constantly tried to secure anticipatory bail after the techie's family filed a suicide abetment case against her. However, a mistake by her and one phone call gave her location away, and the Bengaluru Police tracked her down to Gurugram, police sources told Indian news agency IANS. While she moved to a PG accommodation in Gurugram, her mother and brother hid in Jhusi town in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj district. They all communicated on WhatsApp calls. But Nikita made one call, by mistake, to one of her close relatives. Following this, the police tracked the tower location and reached the PG accommodation in Gurugram's Rail Vihar, according to the sources. Also read: Atul Subhash suicide case: Bengaluru techie's wife and in-laws arrested by police The police then detained her and made her call her mother. When her mother received the call, police tracked them to Jhusi town and took them into custody. Nikita was arrested from Gurugram, and at that time, her mother Nisha Singhania and brother Anurag Singhania were taken into custody by Prayagraj. Meanwhile, Nikita's uncle Sushil Singhania, the fourth accused in the suicide abetment case, is still on the run. Soon after the Bengaluru Police registered the case, the accused locked their home in Uttar Pradesh's Jaunpur and fled, the police sources said. When the police reached Jaunpur, they pasted notices on their home, asking them to appear within three days. The Bengaluru Police also made a list of the family's close relatives and kept an eye on them. However, the accused only made calls on WhatsApp, which made it difficult for the police to track them. Watch | Atul Subash Case: Father Demands Justice As Search For Estranged Wife Continues × The Singhanias also pleaded for anticipatory bail in the Allahabad High Court. 'Key challenge' The key challenge in taking all three accused to Bengaluru was to ensure that co-passengers did not recognise Nikita during the journey during the late-night flight. The three accused were taken to Bengaluru on a late-night flight, the police said, adding that they were extremely cautious in ensuring that the news of their detention was not out before reaching Bengaluru. If the news had leaked, it would have created huge chaos, as the suicide of Atul Subhash has created a nationwide outrage. 'Never harassed Atul' While being interrogated, Nikita said that she never harassed Atul and was in fact harassed by him. She further said that she would not have left their home if she wanted money. The arrests were made days after the 34-year-old techie accused Nikita and her family of extortion and harassment in an over-an-hour-long video and died by suicide. (With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru techie suicide: How one phone call helped police track down estranged wife Nikita Singhania

<p><span class="region">Kolkata, India</span>
<p>Hundreds of people staged a protest in Kolkata, the capital of India's eastern state of West Bengal, on Monday (Dec 16) under the banner of "Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti", raising their voices on the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and demanding the release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das. </p></p>
<p>The rally began at Sealdah station and culminated at Rani Rashmoni Road in Kolkata. The protesters were seen traveling a distance of 2 km as they raised slogans demanding the release of Hindu monks. </p>
<p>They further demanded the Bangladesh interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, to stop the atrocities on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. </p>
<p>The protesters were carrying saffron flags and banners, highlighting their concerns over the continued violence against Hindus and their temples in Dhaka. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hoping-for-stable-relationship-jaishankar-on-bangladesh-ties-amid-attacks-on-hindus-783686"><strong>Also read: ‘Hoping for stable relationship,’ Jaishankar on Bangladesh ties amid attacks on Hindus</strong></a></p>
<p>Moreover, they called for immediate action from the interim government to ensure the safety and security of Hindus in Bangladesh, adding that the perpetrators should be punished. </p>
<h2><strong>Chinmoy Das's arrest</strong></h2>
<p>The protesters alleged that the Hindu monk's arrest was unjustified and he was targeted when he voiced his concerns over attacks on Hindus and other minorities and their places of worship after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. </p>
<p>They demanded the interim government ensure that the minorities in Bangladesh live in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. </p>
<p>Last week, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that the government of Bangladesh was responsible for the safety of religious minorities in the country.</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Vikram Misri In Bangladesh: India Seeks Constructive, Mutually Beneficial Relations | WION</strong></p>
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<p>He said the treatment of Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh was a matter of concern, referring to a series of attacks on Hindu temples by mobs.</p>
<p>“It is our hope that with the new dispensation in Bangladesh, we will settle down to a mutually beneficial and stable relationship," he said. </p>
<p>Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. </p>
<p>The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The rally began at Sealdah station and culminated at Rani Rashmoni Road in Kolkata. The protesters were seen traveling a distance of 2 km as they raised slogans demanding the release of Hindu monks. 



Kolkata, India Hundreds of people staged a protest in Kolkata, the capital of India's eastern state of West Bengal, on Monday (Dec 16) under the banner of "Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti", raising their voices on the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and demanding the release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das. The rally began at Sealdah station and culminated at Rani Rashmoni Road in Kolkata. The protesters were seen traveling a distance of 2 km as they raised slogans demanding the release of Hindu monks. They further demanded the Bangladesh interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, to stop the atrocities on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The protesters were carrying saffron flags and banners, highlighting their concerns over the continued violence against Hindus and their temples in Dhaka. Also read: ‘Hoping for stable relationship,’ Jaishankar on Bangladesh ties amid attacks on Hindus Moreover, they called for immediate action from the interim government to ensure the safety and security of Hindus in Bangladesh, adding that the perpetrators should be punished. Chinmoy Das's arrest The protesters alleged that the Hindu monk's arrest was unjustified and he was targeted when he voiced his concerns over attacks on Hindus and other minorities and their places of worship after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. They demanded the interim government ensure that the minorities in Bangladesh live in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Last week, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that the government of Bangladesh was responsible for the safety of religious minorities in the country. Watch | Vikram Misri In Bangladesh: India Seeks Constructive, Mutually Beneficial Relations | WION × He said the treatment of Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh was a matter of concern, referring to a series of attacks on Hindu temples by mobs. “It is our hope that with the new dispensation in Bangladesh, we will settle down to a mutually beneficial and stable relationship," he said. Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months. (With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of people protest in Kolkata over attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, demand release of Chinmoy Das

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday (Dec 16) alleged that the photograph of the Pakistan Army surrendering in front of the Indian Army in the 1971 war has been removed from the Army hedquarters.</p></p>
<p>During the Parliament winter session, Priyanka Gandhi, in her Zero Hour reference, said that the picture was removed on Monday, which also happens to be Vijay Diwas. </p>
<p>"Today, that picture has been removed from the Army headquarters where the Pakistan Army is surrendering before the Indian Army," she said.</p>
<p>She further recalled the role of soldiers and martyrs who fought the war between India and Pakistan in 1971. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-carries-palestine-emblazoned-bag-in-parliament-stirs-controversy-784334"><strong>Also read: Priyanka Gandhi carries 'Palestine' emblazoned bag in Parliament, stirs controversy</strong></a></p>
<p>Gandhi added, “I want to salute the brave soldiers who fought for us in the war of 1971. Whatever was happening in Bangladesh, no one was listening to the voice of the people of Bangladesh, our Bengali brothers and sisters. Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister at that time, I want to salute her. She showed courage in the most difficult situations and showed such leadership that made the country victorious.”</p>
<p>Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on December 16 to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. The war also resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh.</p>
<h2><strong>Attacks on minorities in Bangladesh</strong></h2>
<p>The Congress MP stressed the need to raise their voice against the atrocities committed against the Hindu and Christian minorities in Bangladesh. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's Maiden Speech In Lok Sabha | World News | WION</strong></p>
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<p>“The government should raise its voice against the atrocities committed against the Hindu and Christian minorities in Bangladesh, it should hold talks with them and take their support,” the Wayanad MP said.</p>
<h2><strong>Gandhi's 'Palestine' emblazoned bag</strong></h2>
<p>The Congress MP also landed at the centre of a controversy when she carried a bag with "Palestine" emblazoned on it inside the Parliament to express her support for Palestinians. </p>
<p>Congress's general secretary has been known to raise her voice against the actions of Israel in Gaza and show her solidarity with Palestinians.</p>
<p>Priyanka Gandhi was seen carrying a handbag that had the word "Palestine" and Palestinian emblems like a watermelon emblazoned on it. The watermelon is seen as a symbol of Palestinian solidarity.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


During the Parliament winter session, Priyanka Gandhi, in her Zero Hour reference, said that the picture was removed on Monday, which also happens to be Vijay Diwas. 



New Delhi, India Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday (Dec 16) alleged that the photograph of the Pakistan Army surrendering in front of the Indian Army in the 1971 war has been removed from the Army hedquarters. During the Parliament winter session, Priyanka Gandhi, in her Zero Hour reference, said that the picture was removed on Monday, which also happens to be Vijay Diwas. "Today, that picture has been removed from the Army headquarters where the Pakistan Army is surrendering before the Indian Army," she said. She further recalled the role of soldiers and martyrs who fought the war between India and Pakistan in 1971. Also read: Priyanka Gandhi carries 'Palestine' emblazoned bag in Parliament, stirs controversy Gandhi added, “I want to salute the brave soldiers who fought for us in the war of 1971. Whatever was happening in Bangladesh, no one was listening to the voice of the people of Bangladesh, our Bengali brothers and sisters. Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister at that time, I want to salute her. She showed courage in the most difficult situations and showed such leadership that made the country victorious.” Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on December 16 to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. The war also resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh. Attacks on minorities in Bangladesh The Congress MP stressed the need to raise their voice against the atrocities committed against the Hindu and Christian minorities in Bangladesh. Watch | Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's Maiden Speech In Lok Sabha | World News | WION × “The government should raise its voice against the atrocities committed against the Hindu and Christian minorities in Bangladesh, it should hold talks with them and take their support,” the Wayanad MP said. Gandhi's 'Palestine' emblazoned bag The Congress MP also landed at the centre of a controversy when she carried a bag with "Palestine" emblazoned on it inside the Parliament to express her support for Palestinians. Congress's general secretary has been known to raise her voice against the actions of Israel in Gaza and show her solidarity with Palestinians. Priyanka Gandhi was seen carrying a handbag that had the word "Palestine" and Palestinian emblems like a watermelon emblazoned on it. The watermelon is seen as a symbol of Palestinian solidarity. (With inputs from agencies)

Photo of Pakistan surrendering before India removed from Army headquarters: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi

<p>The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial.</p>

<p>"I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies".</p>

<p>In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her.</p>

<p>Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prosecutors-demand-maximum-term-for-husband-who-drugged-wife-in-french-rape-trial-779115"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial</strong></a></p>

<p>Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help.</p>

<p>Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon.</p>

<p>He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Rest of my life in your hands'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame".</p>

<p>"I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said.</p>

<p>Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>"We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.</p>

<p>As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters.</p>

<p>On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape.</p>

<p>The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape.</p>

<p>One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison.</p>

<p>Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot.</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 French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial.

The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial. "I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week. "I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies". In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her. Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court. Also read: Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help. Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon. He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added. 'Rest of my life in your hands' He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame". "I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said. Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands." The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial. Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION × "We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters. On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape. The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape. One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison. Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot. 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.

'Accept my apologies,' says Gisele Pelicot's ex-husband in French rape trial

<p>Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report -- "A Digital Prison" -- Serbian authorities have deployed spyware that "provides Serbian authorities with extensive surveillance capabilities once installed on a target's device".</p>

<p>The report includes testimonies of a journalist and activist who accused authorities of covertly installing spyware on their devices while in custody and during an interview with officials.</p>

<p>"Our investigation reveals how Serbian authorities have deployed surveillance technology and digital repression tactics as instruments of wider state control and repression," said Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for Europe.</p>

<p>The report highlights the use of the Cellebrite and NoviSpy software and forensic tools to target phones and devices belonging to members of civil society.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sentences-state-media-journalist-dong-yuyu-7-years-in-jail-over-spy-charges-780191"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;China sentences state media journalist Dong Yuyu for 7 years in jail on spy charges</strong></a></p>

<p>NoviSpy can be used to remotely turn on a phone's microphone or camera for recording and extracting sensitive personal data, according to Amnesty.</p>

<p>Cellebrite products are widely used by law enforcement agencies across the globe to unlock smartphones and search for evidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Belgrade-based youth activist Nikola Ristic -- who was profiled by Amnesty in the report -- told AFP his phone was hacked by authorities after being arrested at a protest in November over a deadly railway station roof collapse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While in custody, Ristic said intelligence officials seized his phone and he was repeatedly told to unlock the device.</p>

<p>"Their behaviour and the conversation with me seemed like a charade, a cover for something else," he told AFP, adding that he did not have any compromising evidence or material stored on the phone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being released, Ristic later handed over his phone to Amnesty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a forensic scan, it found that Cellebrite had been used to unlock the device and NoviSpy spyware had been installed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We don't actually have agencies focused on the safety of citizens, but rather spy agencies," Ristic told AFP.</p>

<p>Serbia's intelligence agency (BIA) dismissed the Amnesty report's claims as "absurd".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a separate statement, Serbian police said its forces only use forensic tools in accordance with the country's laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Amnesty, Serbia received the phone unlocking software from Cellebrite as part of a broader package aimed at helping the country meet the requirements for European Union integration.</p>

<p>Independent journalists and civil society groups in Serbia have long accused the government and its allies of targeting them with defamatory statements, lawsuits, and public threats.&nbsp;</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>


Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday.

Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday. According to the report -- "A Digital Prison" -- Serbian authorities have deployed spyware that "provides Serbian authorities with extensive surveillance capabilities once installed on a target's device". The report includes testimonies of a journalist and activist who accused authorities of covertly installing spyware on their devices while in custody and during an interview with officials. "Our investigation reveals how Serbian authorities have deployed surveillance technology and digital repression tactics as instruments of wider state control and repression," said Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for Europe. The report highlights the use of the Cellebrite and NoviSpy software and forensic tools to target phones and devices belonging to members of civil society. Also read: China sentences state media journalist Dong Yuyu for 7 years in jail on spy charges NoviSpy can be used to remotely turn on a phone's microphone or camera for recording and extracting sensitive personal data, according to Amnesty. Cellebrite products are widely used by law enforcement agencies across the globe to unlock smartphones and search for evidence. Belgrade-based youth activist Nikola Ristic -- who was profiled by Amnesty in the report -- told AFP his phone was hacked by authorities after being arrested at a protest in November over a deadly railway station roof collapse. While in custody, Ristic said intelligence officials seized his phone and he was repeatedly told to unlock the device. "Their behaviour and the conversation with me seemed like a charade, a cover for something else," he told AFP, adding that he did not have any compromising evidence or material stored on the phone. After being released, Ristic later handed over his phone to Amnesty. After a forensic scan, it found that Cellebrite had been used to unlock the device and NoviSpy spyware had been installed. "We don't actually have agencies focused on the safety of citizens, but rather spy agencies," Ristic told AFP. Serbia's intelligence agency (BIA) dismissed the Amnesty report's claims as "absurd". In a separate statement, Serbian police said its forces only use forensic tools in accordance with the country's laws. According to Amnesty, Serbia received the phone unlocking software from Cellebrite as part of a broader package aimed at helping the country meet the requirements for European Union integration. Independent journalists and civil society groups in Serbia have long accused the government and its allies of targeting them with defamatory statements, lawsuits, and public threats. 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.

Serbia authorities using spyware to track journalists and activists, Amnesty claims

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