Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86, on Wednesday (Oct 9) after being hospitalised in critical condition in intensive care at a Mumbai hospital.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, he said he was undergoing a routine medical investigation due to his age and related medical conditions.

Tata, one of India's most respected businessmen, became chairman of the autos-to-steel conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group, founded by his great-grandfather more than a hundred years ago, until 2012.

He stands out as a prominent business tycoon and philanthropist, whose success has widely impacted India's economy.&nbsp;

He transformed the Tata Group from a primary domestic company into a global powerhouse.&nbsp;

<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:226,&quot;w&quot;:796,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2117}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ratan-tata-slams-rumours-of-hospitalisation-asks-people-to-refrain-from-spreading-misinformation-765160">Also read:&nbsp;Ratan Tata slams 'rumours' of hospitalisation, asks people to refrain from 'spreading misinformation'</a>

He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004.

He led the transformation of Tata Group and his tenure as chairman saw the acquisition of high-profile global brands, like Jaguar Land Rover, Corus Steel, and Tetley Tea, positioning Tata Group on the world stage.

After stepping down as chairman, Ratan Tata&nbsp;was conferred with the title of chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals, according to the company's website.

In 2000, he was awarded&nbsp;the Padma Bhushan,&nbsp;the third-highest civilian award in India, for his outstanding contributions to trade and industry. Eight years later, he was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, for his efforts in transforming Tata into a global enterprise. 
 
His philanthropy touched millions of lives and his belief in ethical business practices and unwavering drive to uplift India made him a true icon and respected figure in the boardrooms and in millions of hearts. 
 
The great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata was born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai to Naval Tata and Sooni Tata.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86, on Wednesday (Oct 9) after being hospitalised in critical condition in intensive care at a Mumbai hospital.

Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86, on Wednesday (Oct 9) after being hospitalised in critical condition in intensive care at a Mumbai hospital. Earlier on Monday, he said he was undergoing a routine medical investigation due to his age and related medical conditions. Tata, one of India's most respected businessmen, became chairman of the autos-to-steel conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group, founded by his great-grandfather more than a hundred years ago, until 2012. He stands out as a prominent business tycoon and philanthropist, whose success has widely impacted India's economy. He transformed the Tata Group from a primary domestic company into a global powerhouse. Also read: Ratan Tata slams 'rumours' of hospitalisation, asks people to refrain from 'spreading misinformation' He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004. He led the transformation of Tata Group and his tenure as chairman saw the acquisition of high-profile global brands, like Jaguar Land Rover, Corus Steel, and Tetley Tea, positioning Tata Group on the world stage. After stepping down as chairman, Ratan Tata was conferred with the title of chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals, according to the company's website. In 2000, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, for his outstanding contributions to trade and industry. Eight years later, he was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, for his efforts in transforming Tata into a global enterprise. His philanthropy touched millions of lives and his belief in ethical business practices and unwavering drive to uplift India made him a true icon and respected figure in the boardrooms and in millions of hearts. The great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata was born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai to Naval Tata and Sooni Tata. (With inputs from agencies)

Ratan Tata, India’s most respected businessman, leaves a rich legacy behind

An Israeli airstrike killed at least 28 people&nbsp;and injured&nbsp;dozens&nbsp;in a school sheltering displaced families in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday (Oct 10), the Palestinian Red Crescent said.&nbsp;

More than 50 other people were injured in the strike at Rufaida al-Aslamia school, which the medical organisation said was close to its headquarters in the town of Deir al-Balah.

The Israeli military said the "precise" strike targeted Hamas fighters operating inside a "command-and-control centre” at the school.

It added that the military had taken steps to lessen harm to civilians and accused Hamas of systematically abusing civilian infrastructure, an allegation the group has previously denied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-carries-out-new-strikes-in-gaza-45-killed-in-last-24-hours-765961">Also read:&nbsp;At least 45 killed in last 24 hours as Israel carries out new strikes in Gaza</a>

Meanwhile, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry also mentioned the death toll, saying 28 have been killed and calling it a “new massacre” by the Israeli military.

Since the war began almost a year ago, many schools have been turned into shelters for the 1.9 million Palestinians who have fled their homes.&nbsp;

<h2>UN commission accuses Israel of 'destroying Gaza's healthcare system'</h2>

The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry issued a statement, saying, "Israel has perpetrated a concerted policy to destroy Gaza's healthcare system as part of a broader assault on Gaza."

The country is "committing war crimes and the crime against humanity of extermination with relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities", it added.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Strikes Kill 12 Palestinians In Gaza

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The report further highlighted the abuse of Palestinian detainees in Israel and of hostages in Gaza, accusing both Israel and Palestinian armed groups of "torture" and sexual and gender-based violence.

However, Israel has accused the commission of &nbsp;"systematic anti-Israeli discrimination" and has rejected the findings of its June report, which also accused Israel of committing crimes against humanity, including "extermination" in Gaza.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Israeli airstrike killed at least 28 people and injured dozens in a school sheltering displaced families in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday (Oct 10), the Palestinian Red Crescent said.

An Israeli airstrike killed at least 28 people and injured dozens in a school sheltering displaced families in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday (Oct 10), the Palestinian Red Crescent said. More than 50 other people were injured in the strike at Rufaida al-Aslamia school, which the medical organisation said was close to its headquarters in the town of Deir al-Balah. The Israeli military said the "precise" strike targeted Hamas fighters operating inside a "command-and-control centre” at the school. It added that the military had taken steps to lessen harm to civilians and accused Hamas of systematically abusing civilian infrastructure, an allegation the group has previously denied. Also read: At least 45 killed in last 24 hours as Israel carries out new strikes in Gaza Meanwhile, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry also mentioned the death toll, saying 28 have been killed and calling it a “new massacre” by the Israeli military. Since the war began almost a year ago, many schools have been turned into shelters for the 1.9 million Palestinians who have fled their homes. UN commission accuses Israel of 'destroying Gaza's healthcare system' The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry issued a statement, saying, "Israel has perpetrated a concerted policy to destroy Gaza's healthcare system as part of a broader assault on Gaza." The country is "committing war crimes and the crime against humanity of extermination with relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities", it added. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Strikes Kill 12 Palestinians In Gaza × The report further highlighted the abuse of Palestinian detainees in Israel and of hostages in Gaza, accusing both Israel and Palestinian armed groups of "torture" and sexual and gender-based violence. However, Israel has accused the commission of "systematic anti-Israeli discrimination" and has rejected the findings of its June report, which also accused Israel of committing crimes against humanity, including "extermination" in Gaza. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

UN probe accuses Israel of 'crime against humanity of extermination' after 28 killed in Gaza school

Former Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed has&nbsp;again been accused of sexual abuse by another 65 women, with allegations stretching far beyond Harrods and as far back as 1977, reported BBC.&nbsp;

Earlier, around 60 women alleged they were sexually abused by Al-Fayed, who died last year.&nbsp;

The accounts of those 65 women revealed new details of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape, sent to the BBC in the weeks since the documentary Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods and a podcast were broadcast.

Out of these 65 women who contacted the BBC, 37 said they had worked at Harrods.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mohamed-fayed-made-disgusting-proposal-to-princess-diana-which-left-her-shaking-claims-paul-burrell-762924">Also read:&nbsp;Mohamed Fayed made ‘disgusting proposal’ to Princess Diana which left her ‘shaking’, claims Paul Burrell</a>

They said that Fayed used a broader range of abuse tactics and also targeted women employed outside his businesses.

BBC interviewed several of these women, and these women alleged they were recruited by Al Fayed and were lured into roles on the billionaire’s domestic staff and were then sexually exploited by him, including at his mansion in Oxted.

One of the women said she was assaulted by Al Fayed in Dubai in 1977, eight years before his purchase of Harrods helped him become a household name in the UK, BBC reported.

She added that Fayed personally stalked her and threatened her.&nbsp;

Woman who used to work at Harrods said he later carried out similar intimidation tactics through a team of security staff.

BBC contacted Harrods, and they said, "Since the airing of the documentary, so far there are 200+ individuals who are now in the Harrods process to settle claims directly with the business."

The BBC also spoke to women who were not employed and said that they were approached and assaulted by him.

One of the women alleged that she was working at a London flower shop in the early 1980s, and at that time she was spotted by one of Al Fayed's team. She was 21 and said that she was flown to the Paris Ritz for a purported job interview, where Al Fayed sexually assaulted her.

Moreover, a former BBC make-up artist also alleged she was sexually assaulted by Al Fayed when she was working on an episode of the Clothes Show in 1989.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed has again been accused of sexual abuse by another 65 women, with allegations stretching far beyond Harrods and as far back as 1977, reported BBC.

Former Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed has again been accused of sexual abuse by another 65 women, with allegations stretching far beyond Harrods and as far back as 1977, reported BBC. Earlier, around 60 women alleged they were sexually abused by Al-Fayed, who died last year. The accounts of those 65 women revealed new details of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape, sent to the BBC in the weeks since the documentary Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods and a podcast were broadcast. Out of these 65 women who contacted the BBC, 37 said they had worked at Harrods. Also read: Mohamed Fayed made ‘disgusting proposal’ to Princess Diana which left her ‘shaking’, claims Paul Burrell They said that Fayed used a broader range of abuse tactics and also targeted women employed outside his businesses. BBC interviewed several of these women, and these women alleged they were recruited by Al Fayed and were lured into roles on the billionaire’s domestic staff and were then sexually exploited by him, including at his mansion in Oxted. One of the women said she was assaulted by Al Fayed in Dubai in 1977, eight years before his purchase of Harrods helped him become a household name in the UK, BBC reported. She added that Fayed personally stalked her and threatened her. Woman who used to work at Harrods said he later carried out similar intimidation tactics through a team of security staff. BBC contacted Harrods, and they said, "Since the airing of the documentary, so far there are 200+ individuals who are now in the Harrods process to settle claims directly with the business." The BBC also spoke to women who were not employed and said that they were approached and assaulted by him. One of the women alleged that she was working at a London flower shop in the early 1980s, and at that time she was spotted by one of Al Fayed's team. She was 21 and said that she was flown to the Paris Ritz for a purported job interview, where Al Fayed sexually assaulted her. Moreover, a former BBC make-up artist also alleged she was sexually assaulted by Al Fayed when she was working on an episode of the Clothes Show in 1989. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 60 more women accuse ex-Harrods owner Al-Fayed of sexual abuse

South Korean author Han Kang was awarded with Nobel Prize in Literature on Thursday (Oct 10) for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.

The prize was awarded to Kang, 53, by the Swedish Academy and is worth 11 million Swedish crowns ($1.1 million).

Kang was born in Gwangju, South Korea, in 1970. She belongs to a family, who have a literary background. Her father is a reputed novelist.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-in-literature-2024-awarded-to-south-korean-author-han-kang-766331">Also read:&nbsp;Nobel Prize in Literature 2024 awarded to South Korean author Han Kang</a>

Her most recent novel 'I Do Not Bid Farewell' was awarded the Medicis Prize in France in 2023, and the Emile Guimet Prize in 2024.

She made her literary debut in 1993, as a poet by publishing five poems, including "Winter in Seoul", in the winter issue of Munhak-gwa-sahoe (Literature and Society). Next year, she began her career as a novelist by winning the 1994 Seoul Shinmun Spring Literary Contest with "Red Anchor".&nbsp;

Later in 1995, she published her first short story collection entitled Yeosu (Munji Publishing Company).&nbsp;

She won the International Booker Prize in 2016 for ‘The Vegetarian’, an unsettling novel in which a woman's decision to stop eating meat has devastating consequences.

Moreover, her work is characterised by this double exposure of pain, a correspondence between mental and physical torment with close connections to Eastern thinking, the committee said.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Korean author Han Kang was awarded with Nobel Prize in Literature on Thursday (Oct 10) for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.

South Korean author Han Kang was awarded with Nobel Prize in Literature on Thursday (Oct 10) for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life. The prize was awarded to Kang, 53, by the Swedish Academy and is worth 11 million Swedish crowns ($1.1 million). Kang was born in Gwangju, South Korea, in 1970. She belongs to a family, who have a literary background. Her father is a reputed novelist. Also read: Nobel Prize in Literature 2024 awarded to South Korean author Han Kang Her most recent novel 'I Do Not Bid Farewell' was awarded the Medicis Prize in France in 2023, and the Emile Guimet Prize in 2024. She made her literary debut in 1993, as a poet by publishing five poems, including "Winter in Seoul", in the winter issue of Munhak-gwa-sahoe (Literature and Society). Next year, she began her career as a novelist by winning the 1994 Seoul Shinmun Spring Literary Contest with "Red Anchor". Later in 1995, she published her first short story collection entitled Yeosu (Munji Publishing Company). She won the International Booker Prize in 2016 for ‘The Vegetarian’, an unsettling novel in which a woman's decision to stop eating meat has devastating consequences. Moreover, her work is characterised by this double exposure of pain, a correspondence between mental and physical torment with close connections to Eastern thinking, the committee said. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is South Korean author Han Kang? 2024 Nobel prize winner in Literature

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul.&nbsp;

A Ukrainian source told The Guardian that there are dozens of North Koreans behind Russian lines, in teams that “support launcher systems for KN-23 missiles”.&nbsp;

<h2>Kremlin dismisses Seoul's claim&nbsp;</h2>

The Kremlin on Thursday (Oct 10), dismissed the claim by South Korea that Pyongyang soldiers were fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, and called it another "fake news story".&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, "This seems like yet another fake news story."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-calls-putin-his-closest-comrade-says-relation-between-both-countries-became-eternal-765691">Also read:&nbsp;North Korea's Kim calls Putin 'closest comrade', terms relations between two countries 'eternal'</a>

Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Yun travelled to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin where the two men bolstered their deepening ties with a secret arms deal.

North Korea's ammunition shipments were important in allowing Russian forces to advance in a grinding war of attrition in eastern Ukraine this summer.&nbsp;

Ukraine's Kyiv Post reported on Friday that six North Korean military officers had been killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on Russian-occupied territory near Donetsk a day earlier, citing intelligence sources.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Slams US For Providing Military Aid To Ukraine | World DNA

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South Korean Defence Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, told lawmakers that the report was probably correct.

"We assess that the occurrence of casualties among North Korean officers and soldiers in Ukraine is highly likely, considering various circumstances," he said, adding, "The issue of deploying regular troops is highly likely due to the mutual agreements that resemble a military alliance between Russia and North Korea."

Head of Ukraine's centre for countering disinformation, Lieutenant Andriy Kovalenko, took to Telegram and said that there were "small numbers of combat engineers" from North Korea in the Donetsk region combat zone.

According to experts, North Korean missiles have been deployed in Ukraine by Russian forces, a report denied by both Moscow and Pyongyang.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul.

North Korean military engineers have been deployed to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine with ballistic missiles, and North Koreans operating in occupied regions of Ukraine have already been killed, alleged senior officials in Kyiv and Seoul. A Ukrainian source told The Guardian that there are dozens of North Koreans behind Russian lines, in teams that “support launcher systems for KN-23 missiles”. Kremlin dismisses Seoul's claim The Kremlin on Thursday (Oct 10), dismissed the claim by South Korea that Pyongyang soldiers were fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, and called it another "fake news story". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, "This seems like yet another fake news story." Also read: North Korea's Kim calls Putin 'closest comrade', terms relations between two countries 'eternal' Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Yun travelled to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin where the two men bolstered their deepening ties with a secret arms deal. North Korea's ammunition shipments were important in allowing Russian forces to advance in a grinding war of attrition in eastern Ukraine this summer. Ukraine's Kyiv Post reported on Friday that six North Korean military officers had been killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on Russian-occupied territory near Donetsk a day earlier, citing intelligence sources. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Slams US For Providing Military Aid To Ukraine | World DNA × South Korean Defence Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, told lawmakers that the report was probably correct. "We assess that the occurrence of casualties among North Korean officers and soldiers in Ukraine is highly likely, considering various circumstances," he said, adding, "The issue of deploying regular troops is highly likely due to the mutual agreements that resemble a military alliance between Russia and North Korea." Head of Ukraine's centre for countering disinformation, Lieutenant Andriy Kovalenko, took to Telegram and said that there were "small numbers of combat engineers" from North Korea in the Donetsk region combat zone. According to experts, North Korean missiles have been deployed in Ukraine by Russian forces, a report denied by both Moscow and Pyongyang. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops to fight against Ukraine; Kremlin rejects claims as ‘fake’

Global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 73 per cent in 50 years as humans continue to push ecosystems to the brink of collapse, according to a new scientific assessment.&nbsp;

The latest edition of the Living Planet report, issued on Thursday (Oct 10), by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), stated that despite such promises, the health of the planet's animal species and ecosystems is continuing to deteriorate.&nbsp;

According to the annual update of the Living Planet Index (LPI), between 1970 and 2020, the population size of monitored birds, mammals, amphibians, fish and reptiles have shrunk, on an average by 73 per cent on a global scale.&nbsp;

However, earlier in 2022's edition, it stated that the population has declined by 69 per cent.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/california-is-seeing-the-return-of-a-wild-animal-after-100-years-weve-been-invaded-756020">Also read:&nbsp;California is seeing the return of a wild animal after 100 years. 'We’ve been invaded'</a>

"This flagship WWF report reveals the extent of the decline in biodiversity and confirms the trend of previous editions," Véronique Andrieux, director general of the NGO's French branch said, adding, "Behind each species, environments and ecosystems are affected."

Latin America and the Caribbean recorded the steepest average declines in recorded wildlife populations, with a 95% fall, according to the WWF and the Zoological Society of London’s (ZSL) biennial Living Planet report.

It was further followed by Africa with 76 per cent and Asia and the Pacific at 60 per cent. Meanwhile, North America recorded comparatively lower falls of 35 per cent and 39 per cent respectively since 1970.

Watch |&nbsp;World Tourism Day Special: Sustainable Tourism &amp; Global Adventures

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Scientists have warned that the loss could fasten in future years as global heating accelerates, triggered by tipping points in the Amazon rainforest, Arctic and marine ecosystems, which could have catastrophic consequences for nature and human society.

Matthew Gould, ZSL’s chief executive, said the report’s message was clear, saying, “We are dangerously close to tipping points for nature loss and climate change. But we know nature can recover, given the opportunity, and that we still have the chance to act.”

Meanwhile, in a critique of the index published in June, scientists said it, “suffers from several mathematical and statistical issues, leading to a bias towards an apparent decrease even for balanced populations”.

“This does not mean that in reality there is no overall decrease in vertebrate populations [but the] current phase of the Anthropocene [epoch] is characterised by more complex changes than … simple disappearance," they added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 73 per cent in 50 years as humans continue to push ecosystems to the brink of collapse, according to a new scientific assessment.

Global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 73 per cent in 50 years as humans continue to push ecosystems to the brink of collapse, according to a new scientific assessment. The latest edition of the Living Planet report, issued on Thursday (Oct 10), by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), stated that despite such promises, the health of the planet's animal species and ecosystems is continuing to deteriorate. According to the annual update of the Living Planet Index (LPI), between 1970 and 2020, the population size of monitored birds, mammals, amphibians, fish and reptiles have shrunk, on an average by 73 per cent on a global scale. However, earlier in 2022's edition, it stated that the population has declined by 69 per cent. Also read: California is seeing the return of a wild animal after 100 years. 'We’ve been invaded' "This flagship WWF report reveals the extent of the decline in biodiversity and confirms the trend of previous editions," Véronique Andrieux, director general of the NGO's French branch said, adding, "Behind each species, environments and ecosystems are affected." Latin America and the Caribbean recorded the steepest average declines in recorded wildlife populations, with a 95% fall, according to the WWF and the Zoological Society of London’s (ZSL) biennial Living Planet report. It was further followed by Africa with 76 per cent and Asia and the Pacific at 60 per cent. Meanwhile, North America recorded comparatively lower falls of 35 per cent and 39 per cent respectively since 1970. Watch | World Tourism Day Special: Sustainable Tourism & Global Adventures × Scientists have warned that the loss could fasten in future years as global heating accelerates, triggered by tipping points in the Amazon rainforest, Arctic and marine ecosystems, which could have catastrophic consequences for nature and human society. Matthew Gould, ZSL’s chief executive, said the report’s message was clear, saying, “We are dangerously close to tipping points for nature loss and climate change. But we know nature can recover, given the opportunity, and that we still have the chance to act.” Meanwhile, in a critique of the index published in June, scientists said it, “suffers from several mathematical and statistical issues, leading to a bias towards an apparent decrease even for balanced populations”. “This does not mean that in reality there is no overall decrease in vertebrate populations [but the] current phase of the Anthropocene [epoch] is characterised by more complex changes than … simple disappearance," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Global wildlife populations drop by 73%, scientists warn loss could quicken ahead

Thousands of copies of former United States&nbsp;President Donald Trump's "God Bless the USA" Bible were printed in China, a country that he&nbsp;has repeatedly accused of stealing American jobs and engaging in unfair trade practices, according to a report by the&nbsp;Associated Press (AP).&nbsp;

According to the global trade records reviewed by the AP, a printing company in China's eastern city of Hangzhou shipped close to 120,000 of the Bibles to the US earlier this year.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the estimated value of the three separate shipments was $342,000 or less than $3 per Bible, according to databases that track exports and imports.&nbsp;

Moreover, the minimum price for the Trump-backed Bible is $59.99, keeping the potential sales revenue at nearly $7 million.&nbsp;

The connection between the former US president’s Bible and China explained Trump's harsh anti-China rhetoric and his efforts to raise money for election campaigning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-white-house-disgusted-as-trump-blames-illegal-immigrants-for-bad-genes-in-us-765407">Also read:&nbsp;Watch: White House 'disgusted' as Trump blames illegal immigrants for ‘bad genes in US’</a>

The Trump campaign, however, did not respond to emails and calls for comment on the matter.&nbsp;

The former US president posted a video on his Truth Social platform in March announcing a partnership with country singer Lee Greenwood to hawk Bibles, inspired by Greenwood’s hit song “God Bless the USA.”

Trump, in his video, blended religion with his campaign message as he urged viewers to buy the Bible.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US Elections: Donald Trump Launches 'Trump Watches' As Potential Gifts For Supporters

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“This Bible is a reminder that the biggest thing we have to bring back in America, and to make America great again, is our religion,” Trump said.

However, the former US president&nbsp;did not mention where the "God Bless the USA” Bibles were printed, how much they cost, or how much he earns per sale.&nbsp;

Moreover, the&nbsp;"God Bless the USA” Bibles are sold exclusively through a website that states it is not affiliated with any political campaign nor is it owned or controlled by Trump.&nbsp;

According to the website, the Republican presidential candidate's name and image are used under a paid license from CIC Ventures, a company Trump reported owning in a financial disclosure released in August.&nbsp;

Trump has been slamming China for being an obstacle to America's economic success, slapping hefty tariffs on Chinese imports. He has also blamed China for the COVID-19 outbreak and recently suggested, without evidence, that Chinese immigrants are flooding the US to build an “army” and attack the US.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of copies of former United States President Donald Trump's "God Bless the USA" Bible were printed in China, a country that he has repeatedly accused of stealing American jobs and engaging in unfair trade practices, according to a report by the Associated Press (AP).

Thousands of copies of former United States President Donald Trump's "God Bless the USA" Bible were printed in China, a country that he has repeatedly accused of stealing American jobs and engaging in unfair trade practices, according to a report by the Associated Press (AP). According to the global trade records reviewed by the AP, a printing company in China's eastern city of Hangzhou shipped close to 120,000 of the Bibles to the US earlier this year. Reportedly, the estimated value of the three separate shipments was $342,000 or less than $3 per Bible, according to databases that track exports and imports. Moreover, the minimum price for the Trump-backed Bible is $59.99, keeping the potential sales revenue at nearly $7 million. The connection between the former US president’s Bible and China explained Trump's harsh anti-China rhetoric and his efforts to raise money for election campaigning. Also read: Watch: White House 'disgusted' as Trump blames illegal immigrants for ‘bad genes in US’ The Trump campaign, however, did not respond to emails and calls for comment on the matter. The former US president posted a video on his Truth Social platform in March announcing a partnership with country singer Lee Greenwood to hawk Bibles, inspired by Greenwood’s hit song “God Bless the USA.” Trump, in his video, blended religion with his campaign message as he urged viewers to buy the Bible. Watch | US Elections: Donald Trump Launches 'Trump Watches' As Potential Gifts For Supporters × “This Bible is a reminder that the biggest thing we have to bring back in America, and to make America great again, is our religion,” Trump said. However, the former US president did not mention where the "God Bless the USA” Bibles were printed, how much they cost, or how much he earns per sale. Moreover, the "God Bless the USA” Bibles are sold exclusively through a website that states it is not affiliated with any political campaign nor is it owned or controlled by Trump. According to the website, the Republican presidential candidate's name and image are used under a paid license from CIC Ventures, a company Trump reported owning in a financial disclosure released in August. Trump has been slamming China for being an obstacle to America's economic success, slapping hefty tariffs on Chinese imports. He has also blamed China for the COVID-19 outbreak and recently suggested, without evidence, that Chinese immigrants are flooding the US to build an “army” and attack the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump accuses Beijing of stealing American jobs, but his 'God Bless the USA' Bible printed in China

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat's Lothal on Wednesday.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the museum at Lothal will be the largest maritime heritage complex in the world.

Briefing the media after the Union Cabinet meeting, Vaishnaw said, "Today, the Cabinet approved the development of a National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal in Gujarat. The proposal aims to showcase India's rich and diverse maritime heritage and create the largest maritime heritage complex in the world."

The maritime project at Lothal will be completed in two phases. The Union Cabinet has granted in-principle approval for Phases 1B and 2, based on the master plan. Funds will be raised through voluntary contributions, and construction will commence once the necessary resources are secured.

The construction of the Lighthouse Museum under Phase 1B will be funded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-marks-23-years-in-public-office-key-achievements-and-future-vision-765336">Also read:&nbsp;Narendra Modi marks 23 years in public office: Key achievements and future vision</a>

A separate society will be established for the development of future phases, governed by a Governing Council headed by the minister of ports, shipping and&nbsp;waterways, under the Societies Registration Act, of 1860. This body will oversee the implementation, development, management, and operation of the NMHC at Lothal, Gujarat.

Phase 1A of the project is currently underway, with over 60 per cent of the physical work completed. It is expected to be finished by 2025. Phases 1A and 1B will be developed in EPC mode, while Phase 2 will be developed through land subleasing or a public-private partnership (PPP) to establish NMHC as a world-class heritage museum.

The development of the NMHC project is expected to create around 22,000 jobs, with 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the implementation of NMHC aims to boost growth and significantly benefit local communities, tourists, researchers, scholars, government bodies, educational institutions, cultural organisations, environmental and conservation groups, and businesses.

Watch |&nbsp;India: People performed 'Swastik Raas' in Gujarat's Jamnagar

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Phase 1A will feature an NMHC museum with six galleries, including an Indian Navy and&nbsp;Coast Guard gallery, which is expected to be one of the largest in the country. It will showcase external naval artefacts, a replica model of Lothal township surrounded by an open aquatic gallery, and a jetty walkway.

Phase 1B will add eight more galleries, a Lighthouse Museum, which is planned to be the world's tallest, a Bagicha complex with parking for about 1,500 cars, a food hall, and a medical centre.

Phase 2 will include Coastal State Pavilions developed by respective coastal states and union territories, a hospitality zone featuring a maritime-themed eco-resort and "museotels," a recreation of the real-time Lothal city, a maritime institute and hostel, and four theme-based parks.&nbsp;

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.

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat's Lothal on Wednesday.

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat's Lothal on Wednesday. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the museum at Lothal will be the largest maritime heritage complex in the world. Briefing the media after the Union Cabinet meeting, Vaishnaw said, "Today, the Cabinet approved the development of a National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal in Gujarat. The proposal aims to showcase India's rich and diverse maritime heritage and create the largest maritime heritage complex in the world." The maritime project at Lothal will be completed in two phases. The Union Cabinet has granted in-principle approval for Phases 1B and 2, based on the master plan. Funds will be raised through voluntary contributions, and construction will commence once the necessary resources are secured. The construction of the Lighthouse Museum under Phase 1B will be funded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL). Also read: Narendra Modi marks 23 years in public office: Key achievements and future vision A separate society will be established for the development of future phases, governed by a Governing Council headed by the minister of ports, shipping and waterways, under the Societies Registration Act, of 1860. This body will oversee the implementation, development, management, and operation of the NMHC at Lothal, Gujarat. Phase 1A of the project is currently underway, with over 60 per cent of the physical work completed. It is expected to be finished by 2025. Phases 1A and 1B will be developed in EPC mode, while Phase 2 will be developed through land subleasing or a public-private partnership (PPP) to establish NMHC as a world-class heritage museum. The development of the NMHC project is expected to create around 22,000 jobs, with 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect employment opportunities. Furthermore, the implementation of NMHC aims to boost growth and significantly benefit local communities, tourists, researchers, scholars, government bodies, educational institutions, cultural organisations, environmental and conservation groups, and businesses. Watch | India: People performed 'Swastik Raas' in Gujarat's Jamnagar × Phase 1A will feature an NMHC museum with six galleries, including an Indian Navy and Coast Guard gallery, which is expected to be one of the largest in the country. It will showcase external naval artefacts, a replica model of Lothal township surrounded by an open aquatic gallery, and a jetty walkway. Phase 1B will add eight more galleries, a Lighthouse Museum, which is planned to be the world's tallest, a Bagicha complex with parking for about 1,500 cars, a food hall, and a medical centre. Phase 2 will include Coastal State Pavilions developed by respective coastal states and union territories, a hospitality zone featuring a maritime-themed eco-resort and "museotels," a recreation of the real-time Lothal city, a maritime institute and hostel, and four theme-based parks. 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.

India: Union Cabinet approves National Maritime Heritage Complex project in Gujarat

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016.

The outspoken Badenoch received 42 votes from fellow Tory MPs while Jenrick picked up 41. Ex-foreign minister James Cleverly was surprisingly eliminated with 37 votes.

Conservative party members will now select the winner in a ballot that closes at the end of October, with the next leader announced on November 2.

The winner will have to reunite a fractious party, hurting from a brutal election defeat in July when it returned just 121 MPs -- the lowest number in its history. It also lost support to the hard-right Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-interior-minister-priti-patel-eliminated-from-uk-conservative-leadership-race-756081">Also read:&nbsp;Ex-interior minister Priti Patel eliminated from UK Conservative leadership race</a>

The Conservatives face a daunting rebuilding campaign to overturn Labour's 174-seat parliamentary majority at the next election, likely in five years.

But with British elections typically won from the centre, any lurch to the right could scupper that chance.

<h2>Badenoch&nbsp;</h2>

The British-Nigerian Badenoch is a right-wing firebrand, unafraid to speak her mind and not shy of picking a battle in the culture wars.

Badenoch, 44, has been an MP since 2017, representing an area in the southeastern English county of Essex.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent much of her childhood in Lagos before returning to the UK aged 16.

She worked in IT and banking before launching into politics, rising to become a business minister in Rishi Sunak's government.

A self-described "sceptic" of net-zero carbon emissions, Badenoch is popular amongst Tory members who tend to be further right than many lawmakers.

She sparked a storm during the leadership contest when she suggested that statutory maternity pay on small businesses was "excessive".

Badenoch lashed out at the finance ministry, blaming it for a rise in immigration during the Conservatives' time in power from 2010.

She sparked a further furor when she joked that up to 10 per cent of Britain's half a million civil servants were so bad that they "should be in prison".

Badenoch, who says she grew up middle-class but "became working class... working in McDonald's", has promised to make Labour "wriggle" and "sweat" if elected leader.

"I will always fight against left-wing nonsense," she told the Conservatives' recent annual conference.

<h2>Jenrick&nbsp;</h2>

Jenrick, 42, was once considered so mild-mannered and middle-of-the-road that he was referred to in UK political circles as Robert "Generic".

In recent months the decade-long MP has been on a political journey rightwards, prompting some commentators to question his real views.

Jenrick resigned as immigration minister last December saying Sunak's plan to send undocumented migrants to Rwanda did not go far enough.

Watch |&nbsp;Who will replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader?

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He has called for Britain to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), claiming it made it "impossible to secure" UK borders.

In July last year, media reported that Jenrick had told staff to paint over murals depicting cartoons at an asylum centre because they were too welcoming for children.

Jenrick has put some of his recent weight loss down to the drug Ozempic and told the Tory conference he gave one of his three daughters the middle name Thatcher after the Conservative icon Margaret Thatcher.

"The leadership contest has come down to a three-week fight between two Thatcherite culture warriors, both of whom are in denial about why the party lost the election," Tim Bale, politics professor at Queen Mary University of London, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Badenoch is seen by right-wingers as the real deal, a politician who is genuinely obsessed with combatting what they see as 'wokery' in all its forms, said Bale, who wrote a book on the Tories since Brexit.

"Jenrick attracts more suspicion because he's shape-shifted from a standard issue, centre-right careerist into a hard-liner - so much so that he often appears, as was the case in his speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham, to be trying too hard."

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.

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016.

Right-wing candidates Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick won through Wednesday to the final round of the contest to become leader of Britain's opposition Conservative Party -- seeking its sixth chief since the Brexit referendum of 2016. The outspoken Badenoch received 42 votes from fellow Tory MPs while Jenrick picked up 41. Ex-foreign minister James Cleverly was surprisingly eliminated with 37 votes. Conservative party members will now select the winner in a ballot that closes at the end of October, with the next leader announced on November 2. The winner will have to reunite a fractious party, hurting from a brutal election defeat in July when it returned just 121 MPs -- the lowest number in its history. It also lost support to the hard-right Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Also read: Ex-interior minister Priti Patel eliminated from UK Conservative leadership race The Conservatives face a daunting rebuilding campaign to overturn Labour's 174-seat parliamentary majority at the next election, likely in five years. But with British elections typically won from the centre, any lurch to the right could scupper that chance. Badenoch The British-Nigerian Badenoch is a right-wing firebrand, unafraid to speak her mind and not shy of picking a battle in the culture wars. Badenoch, 44, has been an MP since 2017, representing an area in the southeastern English county of Essex. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent much of her childhood in Lagos before returning to the UK aged 16. She worked in IT and banking before launching into politics, rising to become a business minister in Rishi Sunak's government. A self-described "sceptic" of net-zero carbon emissions, Badenoch is popular amongst Tory members who tend to be further right than many lawmakers. She sparked a storm during the leadership contest when she suggested that statutory maternity pay on small businesses was "excessive". Badenoch lashed out at the finance ministry, blaming it for a rise in immigration during the Conservatives' time in power from 2010. She sparked a further furor when she joked that up to 10 per cent of Britain's half a million civil servants were so bad that they "should be in prison". Badenoch, who says she grew up middle-class but "became working class... working in McDonald's", has promised to make Labour "wriggle" and "sweat" if elected leader. "I will always fight against left-wing nonsense," she told the Conservatives' recent annual conference. Jenrick Jenrick, 42, was once considered so mild-mannered and middle-of-the-road that he was referred to in UK political circles as Robert "Generic". In recent months the decade-long MP has been on a political journey rightwards, prompting some commentators to question his real views. Jenrick resigned as immigration minister last December saying Sunak's plan to send undocumented migrants to Rwanda did not go far enough. Watch | Who will replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader? × He has called for Britain to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), claiming it made it "impossible to secure" UK borders. In July last year, media reported that Jenrick had told staff to paint over murals depicting cartoons at an asylum centre because they were too welcoming for children. Jenrick has put some of his recent weight loss down to the drug Ozempic and told the Tory conference he gave one of his three daughters the middle name Thatcher after the Conservative icon Margaret Thatcher. "The leadership contest has come down to a three-week fight between two Thatcherite culture warriors, both of whom are in denial about why the party lost the election," Tim Bale, politics professor at Queen Mary University of London, told AFP. "Badenoch is seen by right-wingers as the real deal, a politician who is genuinely obsessed with combatting what they see as 'wokery' in all its forms, said Bale, who wrote a book on the Tories since Brexit. "Jenrick attracts more suspicion because he's shape-shifted from a standard issue, centre-right careerist into a hard-liner - so much so that he often appears, as was the case in his speech to the Tory conference in Birmingham, to be trying too hard." 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.

James Cleverly eliminated, Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick to be part of UK's Tory leadership race

Hurricane Milton is expected to double in size by the time it makes landfall in the US late on Wednesday or early Thursday, with up to 15 feet of storm surge along a low-lying stretch of the Florida coast that includes the cities of Tampa, St Petersburg, and Sarasota.

The "storm of the century" Milton turned northeast overnight about 300 miles (480 km) southwest of Tampa, targeting heavily populated and highly vulnerable communities.&nbsp;

Tampa mayor Jane Castor warned the people who are not leaving their homes, “That home that you’re in ultimately will be a coffin.”

Castor issued the warning on ABC’s Good Morning America, saying that if they remain in an evacuation area, “you’re going to die”.

<h2>Schools turned into supplemental state shelters</h2>

Most school districts in the state have been shut down. Meanwhile, several schools are being used as supplemental state shelters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-milton-to-hit-florida-timing-areas-at-risk-wind-speeds-and-what-to-expect-766046">Also read:&nbsp;Hurricane Milton to hit Florida: Timing, areas at risk, wind speeds, and what to expect</a>

Florida governor Ron DeSantis and other emergency officials are urging those in vulnerable areas to seek shelter as there is still so much capacity, adding “It’s not the Four Seasons,” but the message is clear: the alternative is worse.

<h2>Over 300 healthcare facilities evacuated&nbsp;</h2>

At least 352 healthcare facilities in the path of the storm have been evacuated. Notably, out of these facilities, 16&nbsp;are hospitals.&nbsp;

<h2>More than 50,000 linemen to work&nbsp;on power restoration</h2>

As soon as the storm passes, over 50,000 linemen will be working on power restoration, and many will be from California, authorities have said.

Meanwhile, Governor Ron DeSantis said that the state is now "bracing and preparing for a major hit" but remains confident "we'll get through it".

Watch |&nbsp;Several Hurricanes Hit Category 5 Intensity

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He added that 51 counties remain under a state of emergency but authorities are "prepared and we will respond".

<h2>'Deadly and catastrophic'</h2>

Deanne Criswell, head of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), said that the hurricane will bring a "deadly and catastrophic" storm, adding that she will be travelling back to Florida today and will remain there to assess the impact and federal resources moving into the area.

<h2>'Gas stations ran out of fuel'</h2>

Governor Ron DeSantis announced that certain gas stations in the state have depleted their fuel reserves. However, he further reassured that measures are being taken to address the situation.

"And they are continuing with the fuel escorts as we speak," he said, adding that the state's highway patrol vehicles, with their sirens activated, are currently accompanying gasoline tanker trucks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hurricane Milton is expected to double in size by the time it makes landfall in the US late on Wednesday or early Thursday, with up to 15 feet of storm surge along a low-lying stretch of the Florida coast that includes the cities of Tampa, St Petersburg, and Sarasota.

Hurricane Milton is expected to double in size by the time it makes landfall in the US late on Wednesday or early Thursday, with up to 15 feet of storm surge along a low-lying stretch of the Florida coast that includes the cities of Tampa, St Petersburg, and Sarasota. The "storm of the century" Milton turned northeast overnight about 300 miles (480 km) southwest of Tampa, targeting heavily populated and highly vulnerable communities. Tampa mayor Jane Castor warned the people who are not leaving their homes, “That home that you’re in ultimately will be a coffin.” Castor issued the warning on ABC’s Good Morning America, saying that if they remain in an evacuation area, “you’re going to die”. Schools turned into supplemental state shelters Most school districts in the state have been shut down. Meanwhile, several schools are being used as supplemental state shelters. Also read: Hurricane Milton to hit Florida: Timing, areas at risk, wind speeds, and what to expect Florida governor Ron DeSantis and other emergency officials are urging those in vulnerable areas to seek shelter as there is still so much capacity, adding “It’s not the Four Seasons,” but the message is clear: the alternative is worse. Over 300 healthcare facilities evacuated At least 352 healthcare facilities in the path of the storm have been evacuated. Notably, out of these facilities, 16 are hospitals. More than 50,000 linemen to work on power restoration As soon as the storm passes, over 50,000 linemen will be working on power restoration, and many will be from California, authorities have said. Meanwhile, Governor Ron DeSantis said that the state is now "bracing and preparing for a major hit" but remains confident "we'll get through it". Watch | Several Hurricanes Hit Category 5 Intensity × He added that 51 counties remain under a state of emergency but authorities are "prepared and we will respond". 'Deadly and catastrophic' Deanne Criswell, head of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), said that the hurricane will bring a "deadly and catastrophic" storm, adding that she will be travelling back to Florida today and will remain there to assess the impact and federal resources moving into the area. 'Gas stations ran out of fuel' Governor Ron DeSantis announced that certain gas stations in the state have depleted their fuel reserves. However, he further reassured that measures are being taken to address the situation. "And they are continuing with the fuel escorts as we speak," he said, adding that the state's highway patrol vehicles, with their sirens activated, are currently accompanying gasoline tanker trucks. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Hurricane Milton likely to double in size; Tampa mayor warns people, ‘If you stay, you’re in coffin’

The Aam Aadmi Party will contest the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections alone against an "overconfident" Congress, a party member said on Wednesday.

"In Delhi, AAP will contest alone. We are capable of fighting the overconfident Congress and arrogant BJP alone," AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said.

She blamed the Congress for not taking alliance partners seriously in Haryana and ultimately facing a rout due to its overconfidence.

"The Congress has had zero seats in the Delhi assembly for the past 10 years, yet AAP gave Congress three seats in the Lok Sabha polls; still they did not feel necessary to take allies along in Haryana," she said.

Kakkar claimed that Congress thwarted all efforts by the INDIA bloc to forge an alliance in Haryana and "didn't feel it necessary to take its ally along with them." The AAP and Congress failed to stitch up a pre-poll alliance due to differences over seat sharing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-atishis-belongings-forcibly-removed-from-official-residence-pwd-seals-home-cmo-766025">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi CM Atishi evicted from official residence? CMO says PWD has sealed house</a>

While the AAP lost all seats it contested in Haryana, the Congress fell well short of the majority mark, making way for the ruling BJP to return for a third consecutive time.

The AAP and the Congress had fought Lok Sabha elections together in Haryana.

In the election held earlier in the year, the AAP lost the sole seat it contested and the Congress won five out of 10 seats.

Kakkar attributed the AAP's winning one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir to the party's development-driven politics.

AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal is scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, she said.

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi's New CM: AAP's Atishi To Become Delhi's CM After Kejriwal Resigns

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The Aam Aadmi Party registered its first victory in assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday when its candidate Mehraj Malik defeated its nearest rival from the BJP in Doda constituency by a margin of over 4,538 votes.

"Mehraj Malik is a very hard-working person, and he has been with the party since the time of the movement and struggle," Kakkar said.

Malik, a District Development Council member, polled 23,228 votes against BJP's Gajay Singh Rana's 18,690 votes.

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.

The Aam Aadmi Party will contest the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections alone against an "overconfident" Congress, a party member said on Wednesday. "In Delhi, AAP will contest alone.

The Aam Aadmi Party will contest the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections alone against an "overconfident" Congress, a party member said on Wednesday. "In Delhi, AAP will contest alone. We are capable of fighting the overconfident Congress and arrogant BJP alone," AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said. She blamed the Congress for not taking alliance partners seriously in Haryana and ultimately facing a rout due to its overconfidence. "The Congress has had zero seats in the Delhi assembly for the past 10 years, yet AAP gave Congress three seats in the Lok Sabha polls; still they did not feel necessary to take allies along in Haryana," she said. Kakkar claimed that Congress thwarted all efforts by the INDIA bloc to forge an alliance in Haryana and "didn't feel it necessary to take its ally along with them." The AAP and Congress failed to stitch up a pre-poll alliance due to differences over seat sharing. Also read: Delhi CM Atishi evicted from official residence? CMO says PWD has sealed house While the AAP lost all seats it contested in Haryana, the Congress fell well short of the majority mark, making way for the ruling BJP to return for a third consecutive time. The AAP and the Congress had fought Lok Sabha elections together in Haryana. In the election held earlier in the year, the AAP lost the sole seat it contested and the Congress won five out of 10 seats. Kakkar attributed the AAP's winning one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir to the party's development-driven politics. AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal is scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, she said. Watch | Delhi's New CM: AAP's Atishi To Become Delhi's CM After Kejriwal Resigns × The Aam Aadmi Party registered its first victory in assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday when its candidate Mehraj Malik defeated its nearest rival from the BJP in Doda constituency by a margin of over 4,538 votes. "Mehraj Malik is a very hard-working person, and he has been with the party since the time of the movement and struggle," Kakkar said. Malik, a District Development Council member, polled 23,228 votes against BJP's Gajay Singh Rana's 18,690 votes. 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.

AAP to contest Delhi elections alone, rules out alliance with Congress after its poor poll show

The Delhi Chief Minister's Office&nbsp;on Thursday (Oct 9) claimed that Delhi LG got all her belongings removed from her Civil Lines residence, where she shifted just two days ago.&nbsp;

CM Atishi claimed that Delhi LG got all her belongings removed from her Civil Lines residence, where she shifted just two days ago

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) linked the incident to the differences between Delhi lieutenant governor V K Saxena and the chief minister.&nbsp;

The Delhi CM's office stated that Lt Governor Vinai Saxena ordered Atishi's belongings to be removed at the behest of the BJP.

“For the first time in the history of the country, the Chief Minister has been asked to vacate her house. The L-G has forcibly removed CM Atishi’s belongings at the behest of the BJP. Preparations are underway on behalf of the L-G to allot CM residence to a big BJP leader. BJP, which has been in exile in Delhi for 27 years, now wants to capture the CM’s residence,” the office said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atishi-officially-takes-charge-as-delhi-cm-leaves-kejriwals-seat-vacant-761135">Also read:&nbsp;Atishi officially takes charge as Delhi CM, leaves ‘chair’ vacant for Kejriwal</a>

"A team of PWD officials reached Delhi Chief Minister's residence, 6-Flag Staff Road, Civil Lines. Delhi LG got all the belongings of Chief Minister Atishi removed from the Chief Minister's residence,"&nbsp;it claimed.&nbsp;

The house has been sealed, Public Works Department (PWD) officials said.&nbsp;

Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said that Arvind Kejriwal's "Sheesh Mahal" has been sealed, adding that the way he tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional.&nbsp;

"... Arvind Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' has finally been sealed... What secrets are hidden in that bungalow that without handing over the keys to the concerned department, you were trying to enter the bungalow again? You created a good drama by taking your belongings in two small trucks. Everyone knows that the bungalow is still in your possession. The way you tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional. Atishi has already been allotted a bungalow then how can she take your bungalow? A lot of secrets are hidden in that bungalow...," Sachdeva said.&nbsp;

Delhi assembly LoP Vijender Gupta stressed that finally Kejriwal's PwD employees had to surrender and accept our demands.

"Arvind Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' has been sealed... The whole fiasco needs to be investigated. The current CM was illegally moved to the bungalow. What is the conspiracy behind this? Why wasn't the bungalow handed over to PwD by following protocols... What is Arvind Kejriwal trying to hide in the Sheesh Mahal?...," he questioned.&nbsp;

However, the Lt Governor’s office has not responded to AAP's claims yet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi's New CM: AAP's Atishi To Become Delhi's CM After Kejriwal Resigns

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Earlier, former CM Arvind Kejriwal was staying in the house till last week and vacated the residence around three weeks after he resigned from his post.

According to PWD officials, Atishi was in possession of the keys but was not given an official allotment letter for the premises.

Notably, there is no dedicated house earmarked as the official residence of the Chief Minister in Delhi. Kejriwal has been living in that house since 2015. Later, the house was rebuilt in 2020-21, inviting controversy over the related cost. 
 
Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition in Delhi assembly, Vijender Gupta, said, "Finally, Kejriwal's PwD employees had to surrender and accept our demands. Arvind Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' has been sealed... The whole fiasco needs to be investigated. The current CM was illegally moved to the bungalow. What is the conspiracy behind this? Why wasn't the bungalow handed over to PwD by following protocols... What is Arvind Kejriwal trying to hide in the Sheesh Mahal?..."&nbsp; 
 
In similar reaction, Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said, "... Arvind Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' has finally been sealed... What secrets are hidden in that bungalow that without handing over the keys to the concerned department, you were trying to enter the bungalow again? You created a good drama by taking your belongings in two small trucks. Everyone knows that the bungalow is still in your possession. The way you tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional. Atishi has already been allotted a bungalow then how can she take your bungalow? A lot of secrets are hidden in that bungalow..." 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Delhi Chief Minister's Office on Thursday (Oct 9) claimed that Delhi LG got all her belongings removed from her Civil Lines residence, where she shifted just two days ago.

The Delhi Chief Minister's Office on Thursday (Oct 9) claimed that Delhi LG got all her belongings removed from her Civil Lines residence, where she shifted just two days ago. CM Atishi claimed that Delhi LG got all her belongings removed from her Civil Lines residence, where she shifted just two days ago The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) linked the incident to the differences between Delhi lieutenant governor V K Saxena and the chief minister. The Delhi CM's office stated that Lt Governor Vinai Saxena ordered Atishi's belongings to be removed at the behest of the BJP. “For the first time in the history of the country, the Chief Minister has been asked to vacate her house. The L-G has forcibly removed CM Atishi’s belongings at the behest of the BJP. Preparations are underway on behalf of the L-G to allot CM residence to a big BJP leader. BJP, which has been in exile in Delhi for 27 years, now wants to capture the CM’s residence,” the office said in a statement. Also read: Atishi officially takes charge as Delhi CM, leaves ‘chair’ vacant for Kejriwal "A team of PWD officials reached Delhi Chief Minister's residence, 6-Flag Staff Road, Civil Lines. Delhi LG got all the belongings of Chief Minister Atishi removed from the Chief Minister's residence," it claimed. The house has been sealed, Public Works Department (PWD) officials said. Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said that Arvind Kejriwal's "Sheesh Mahal" has been sealed, adding that the way he tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional. "... Arvind Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' has finally been sealed... What secrets are hidden in that bungalow that without handing over the keys to the concerned department, you were trying to enter the bungalow again? You created a good drama by taking your belongings in two small trucks. Everyone knows that the bungalow is still in your possession. The way you tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional. Atishi has already been allotted a bungalow then how can she take your bungalow? A lot of secrets are hidden in that bungalow...," Sachdeva said. Delhi assembly LoP Vijender Gupta stressed that finally Kejriwal's PwD employees had to surrender and accept our demands. "Arvind Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' has been sealed... The whole fiasco needs to be investigated. The current CM was illegally moved to the bungalow. What is the conspiracy behind this? Why wasn't the bungalow handed over to PwD by following protocols... What is Arvind Kejriwal trying to hide in the Sheesh Mahal?...," he questioned. However, the Lt Governor’s office has not responded to AAP's claims yet. Watch | Delhi's New CM: AAP's Atishi To Become Delhi's CM After Kejriwal Resigns × Earlier, former CM Arvind Kejriwal was staying in the house till last week and vacated the residence around three weeks after he resigned from his post. According to PWD officials, Atishi was in possession of the keys but was not given an official allotment letter for the premises. Notably, there is no dedicated house earmarked as the official residence of the Chief Minister in Delhi. Kejriwal has been living in that house since 2015. Later, the house was rebuilt in 2020-21, inviting controversy over the related cost. Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition in Delhi assembly, Vijender Gupta, said, "Finally, Kejriwal's PwD employees had to surrender and accept our demands. Arvind Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' has been sealed... The whole fiasco needs to be investigated. The current CM was illegally moved to the bungalow. What is the conspiracy behind this? Why wasn't the bungalow handed over to PwD by following protocols... What is Arvind Kejriwal trying to hide in the Sheesh Mahal?..." In similar reaction, Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said, "... Arvind Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' has finally been sealed... What secrets are hidden in that bungalow that without handing over the keys to the concerned department, you were trying to enter the bungalow again? You created a good drama by taking your belongings in two small trucks. Everyone knows that the bungalow is still in your possession. The way you tried to hand over the bungalow to Atishi was unconstitutional. Atishi has already been allotted a bungalow then how can she take your bungalow? A lot of secrets are hidden in that bungalow..." (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Atishi evicted from official residence? CMO says PWD has sealed house

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