<p>India supported a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly to&nbsp;affirm the right of Palestinian people to self-determination. The resolution received overwhelming support from 172 member nations, with the United States and Israel being the sole dissenters.</p>

<p>The development follows India's earlier vote in favour of a draft resolution during a General Assembly session, where the country, after abstaining for about eight weeks, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Notably, the United States and Israel, along with eight other nations, voted against this resolution.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-un-votes-in-favour-of-resolution-slamming-israeli-settlements-in-palestinian-territories-657691">India votes in favour of UN resolution against Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories</a></strong></p>

<p>Observers note that India's voting pattern in the past week appears to have assuaged concerns in the Arab world, where some perceived a tilt towards Israel.</p>

<p>New Delhi has consistently asserted that a lasting peace in the region depends on a two-state solution.</p>

<p>India's stance on these critical resolutions reflects its commitment to a balanced approach in addressing the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict in the United Nations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's External Affairs Minister on UNSC reforms &amp; India's neighbourhood policy</strong></p>

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<p>An earlier resolution, introduced by Egypt that called for an immediate humanitarian truce, was adopted on December 12 during an emergency special session.</p>

<p>It secured 153 votes in favour, with 23 nations abstaining and 10 voting against it. The resolution, sponsored by nations including Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Palestine, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. It reiterated the demand for all parties to adhere to international law, especially in safeguarding civilians, and stressed the urgent and unconditional release of hostages, coupled with ensuring humanitarian access.</p>


India supported a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly to affirm the right of Palestinian people to self-determination. The resolution received overwhelming support from 172 member nations, with the United States and Israel being the sole dissenters.

India supported a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly to affirm the right of Palestinian people to self-determination. The resolution received overwhelming support from 172 member nations, with the United States and Israel being the sole dissenters. The development follows India's earlier vote in favour of a draft resolution during a General Assembly session, where the country, after abstaining for about eight weeks, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Notably, the United States and Israel, along with eight other nations, voted against this resolution. Also read | India votes in favour of UN resolution against Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories Observers note that India's voting pattern in the past week appears to have assuaged concerns in the Arab world, where some perceived a tilt towards Israel. New Delhi has consistently asserted that a lasting peace in the region depends on a two-state solution. India's stance on these critical resolutions reflects its commitment to a balanced approach in addressing the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict in the United Nations. Also watch | India's External Affairs Minister on UNSC reforms & India's neighbourhood policy × An earlier resolution, introduced by Egypt that called for an immediate humanitarian truce, was adopted on December 12 during an emergency special session. It secured 153 votes in favour, with 23 nations abstaining and 10 voting against it. The resolution, sponsored by nations including Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Palestine, called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. It reiterated the demand for all parties to adhere to international law, especially in safeguarding civilians, and stressed the urgent and unconditional release of hostages, coupled with ensuring humanitarian access.

India votes for ‘permanent sovereignty of Palestinian people’ at UN General Assembly

<p>A temple in California's Newark city, about 100 km from Washington DC, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, pictures shared on social media by the Hindu American Foundation showed. The walls of Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha were purportedly defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans, a denounced separatist cause being propagated from North America, especially from Canada and the United States.</p>

<p>Images shared on social media showed hateful slogans against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the temple wall.</p>

<p>According to the temple administration, the incident took place on Thursday night.</p>

<p>"One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration, told New Delhi-based news agency&nbsp;ANI.</p>

<p>The Hindu American foundation&nbsp;said that the incident should be investigated as a hate crime.</p>

<p>"We are insisting that this should be investigated as a hate crime," they said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is the West reigniting the Khalistan movement?</strong></p>

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<p>Both the Newark Police Department and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division were informed about the same, the foundation added.</p>

<p>Similar anti-India defacements have occurred in the United States as well as in Canada in the recent past.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian consulate in San Francisco reacts</strong></h2>

<p>Indian consulate in San Francisco issued strong condemnation of the incident in a statement.</p>

<p>"We strongly condemn the defacing of SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. This incident has hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter," Indian consulate in San Francisco said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter says Indian consulate in San Francisco <a href="https://twitter.com/CGISFO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CGISFO</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1738407069672444161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why is it a hate crime?</strong></h2>

<p>The graffiti on the walls of Newark temple glorifies&nbsp;slain Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, visuals on social media showed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cast-from-the-past-how-khalistan-movement-took-root-in-canada-before-getting-rejected-in-india-640105">Cast From The Past: How Khalistan movement took root in Canada before getting rejected in India</a></strong></p>

<p>"The mention of the Khalistan terrorist kingpin Bhindranwale, who targeted Hindus for murder, is specifically meant to traumatize temple goers and create a fear of violence—meeting the CA definition of a hate crime," American Hindu Foundation wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A temple in California's Newark city, about 100 km from Washington DC, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, pictures shared on social media by the Hindu American Foundation showed.

A temple in California's Newark city, about 100 km from Washington DC, was defaced with anti-India graffiti, pictures shared on social media by the Hindu American Foundation showed. The walls of Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha were purportedly defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans, a denounced separatist cause being propagated from North America, especially from Canada and the United States. Images shared on social media showed hateful slogans against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the temple wall. According to the temple administration, the incident took place on Thursday night. "One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration, told New Delhi-based news agency ANI. The Hindu American foundation said that the incident should be investigated as a hate crime. "We are insisting that this should be investigated as a hate crime," they said. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Is the West reigniting the Khalistan movement? × Both the Newark Police Department and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division were informed about the same, the foundation added. Similar anti-India defacements have occurred in the United States as well as in Canada in the recent past. Indian consulate in San Francisco reacts Indian consulate in San Francisco issued strong condemnation of the incident in a statement. "We strongly condemn the defacing of SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. This incident has hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter," Indian consulate in San Francisco said. We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter says Indian consulate in San Francisco @CGISFO — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 23, 2023 × Why is it a hate crime? The graffiti on the walls of Newark temple glorifies slain Khalistani terrorist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, visuals on social media showed. Also read | Cast From The Past: How Khalistan movement took root in Canada before getting rejected in India "The mention of the Khalistan terrorist kingpin Bhindranwale, who targeted Hindus for murder, is specifically meant to traumatize temple goers and create a fear of violence—meeting the CA definition of a hate crime," American Hindu Foundation wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Hindu temple in US becomes target of 'hate crime' with anti-India slogans

<p>The case for a reformed UN Security Council is on the agenda of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) since 1993. But 2023 held distinction as India relentlessly utilised its diplomatic capital in and out of the UN Secretariat building in the New York City to expand its initiative of reformed multilateralism. It was also the year when New Delhi held the presidency of Group of 20 nations, the grouping of world's wealthiest economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Delhi led by example.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Right at the start of the inaugural session of the G20 summit in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hammered the gavel and embraced African Union's chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat into the fold of G20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With African Union's inclusion into G20, India is credited to have revamped the forum of the world's wealthiest economies with the idea of reformed and inclusive multilateralism that successive governments in New Delhi and their representatives at UN headquarters in New York long advocated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/10/378750-untitled-design-85.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p><em>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi embraced the African Union chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi as the 55-nation bloc became a permanent member of G20 | X/@narendramodi</em></p>

<p>"Just as India has actively supported the idea of bringing AU into G20, the world will some day soon recognise that India and Africa's representative states should also be included in the UN Security Council," Rajiv Bhatia, a former Indian ambassador and Distinguished Fellow at Mumbai-based Gateway House, had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">told</a> WION on September 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion</a></strong></p>

<p>A week before the New Delhi G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi, in an interview on September 3rd, reiterated Delhi's position on reformed multilateralism and the question of Security Council reforms. "A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century," Modi said, while referring to the lack of representative character of the UN Security Council, which was first created in 1945 with an aim to prevent a third world war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN Security Council, as a principal organ of the United Nations, has five permanent members (or P5) – UK, China, USA, Russia and France – and 10 non-permanent elected members (E10), who are elected through the two-thirds majority in the UN General Assembly, in line with geographical distribution by region. The P5 hold the right to disprove the passage of any resolution or decision of the Council. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On September 5, Ruchira Kamboj, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations launched one of the most impassioned verbal offensives of the year against the exclusive nature of UN Security Council during an open debate on its working methods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the collective approach of P5 to ensure its wishes are adhered to by the ten elected members of the Security Council, Kamboj said, "reflects a continuation of the mindset of the post 1945 era: to the victors belong the spoils."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is simply unacceptable," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Denying the Global South a voice in Council decisions diminishes its credibility says Indian envoy to UN <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaUNNewYork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ruchirakamboj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ruchirakamboj</a> calling for reform of the UNSC <a href="https://t.co/TL8UgNlSSX">pic.twitter.com/TL8UgNlSSX</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1699291274581532724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>But was it all noise and no substance?</p>

<p>The fact remains that since 2008, the exact process of UN Security Council Reforms — Intergovernmental Negotiations — occur in the informal plenary of a session of the UN General Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By virtue of their "informal" nature, the Inter-Governmental Negotiations do not have any draft text on the table to negotiate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-chinas-smokescreen-tricks-the-world-against-reforms-at-un-security-council-635950">How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council</a></strong></p>

<p>The diplomatic calendar next year is set to revolve around 'The Summit of the Future'. The United Nations has branded it as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance cooperation on critical challenges and address gaps in global governance, reaffirm existing commitments including to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Charter, and move towards a reinvigorated multilateral system that is better positioned to positively impact people’s lives."</p>

<p>The reforms for UN Security Council are expected to dominate the showpiece UN summit in 2024, powered by India's aggressive diplomatic efforts for reformed multilateralism during the year of its G20 presidency.</p>

<p>"By advancing the idea of ‘reformed multilateralism’, India has made it a part of the global agenda," Sameer Patil, Deputy Director of Observer Research Foundation in Mumbai, told WION. Patil referred to Joe Biden's address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 21 in which the US President affirmed Washington's support for increasing the number of permanent and non-permanent representatives on the UNSC.</p>

<p>"While earlier, there was reluctance on the part of the P-5 to acknowledge the aspect of UN Security Council reforms; now you see them highlighting the need to undertake such a reform, as evidenced by US President Joe Biden’s statement in September 2023," Patil said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Along with Japan, Brazil and Germany, India is part of G4 political cooperative alliance. The four countries support each other’s bids for permanent seats in the UN Security Council.</p>

<p>"In the upcoming Summit of the Future, India and other like-minded nations will undoubtedly press for text-based negotiations at the IGN to move the needle," Patil added.</p>


The case for a reformed UN Security Council is on the agenda of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) since 1993. But 2023 held distinction as India relentlessly utilised its diplomatic capital in and out of the UN Secretariat building in the New York City to expand its initiative of reformed multilateralism.

The case for a reformed UN Security Council is on the agenda of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) since 1993. But 2023 held distinction as India relentlessly utilised its diplomatic capital in and out of the UN Secretariat building in the New York City to expand its initiative of reformed multilateralism. It was also the year when New Delhi held the presidency of Group of 20 nations, the grouping of world's wealthiest economies. New Delhi led by example. Right at the start of the inaugural session of the G20 summit in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hammered the gavel and embraced African Union's chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat into the fold of G20. With African Union's inclusion into G20, India is credited to have revamped the forum of the world's wealthiest economies with the idea of reformed and inclusive multilateralism that successive governments in New Delhi and their representatives at UN headquarters in New York long advocated. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi embraced the African Union chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi as the 55-nation bloc became a permanent member of G20 | X/@narendramodi "Just as India has actively supported the idea of bringing AU into G20, the world will some day soon recognise that India and Africa's representative states should also be included in the UN Security Council," Rajiv Bhatia, a former Indian ambassador and Distinguished Fellow at Mumbai-based Gateway House, had told WION on September 9. Also read | G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion A week before the New Delhi G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi, in an interview on September 3rd, reiterated Delhi's position on reformed multilateralism and the question of Security Council reforms. "A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century," Modi said, while referring to the lack of representative character of the UN Security Council, which was first created in 1945 with an aim to prevent a third world war. The UN Security Council, as a principal organ of the United Nations, has five permanent members (or P5) – UK, China, USA, Russia and France – and 10 non-permanent elected members (E10), who are elected through the two-thirds majority in the UN General Assembly, in line with geographical distribution by region. The P5 hold the right to disprove the passage of any resolution or decision of the Council. On September 5, Ruchira Kamboj, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations launched one of the most impassioned verbal offensives of the year against the exclusive nature of UN Security Council during an open debate on its working methods. On the collective approach of P5 to ensure its wishes are adhered to by the ten elected members of the Security Council, Kamboj said, "reflects a continuation of the mindset of the post 1945 era: to the victors belong the spoils." "This is simply unacceptable," she added. Denying the Global South a voice in Council decisions diminishes its credibility says Indian envoy to UN @IndiaUNNewYork @ruchirakamboj calling for reform of the UNSC pic.twitter.com/TL8UgNlSSX — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) September 6, 2023 × But was it all noise and no substance? The fact remains that since 2008, the exact process of UN Security Council Reforms — Intergovernmental Negotiations — occur in the informal plenary of a session of the UN General Assembly. By virtue of their "informal" nature, the Inter-Governmental Negotiations do not have any draft text on the table to negotiate. Also read | How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council The diplomatic calendar next year is set to revolve around 'The Summit of the Future'. The United Nations has branded it as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance cooperation on critical challenges and address gaps in global governance, reaffirm existing commitments including to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Charter, and move towards a reinvigorated multilateral system that is better positioned to positively impact people’s lives." The reforms for UN Security Council are expected to dominate the showpiece UN summit in 2024, powered by India's aggressive diplomatic efforts for reformed multilateralism during the year of its G20 presidency. "By advancing the idea of ‘reformed multilateralism’, India has made it a part of the global agenda," Sameer Patil, Deputy Director of Observer Research Foundation in Mumbai, told WION. Patil referred to Joe Biden's address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 21 in which the US President affirmed Washington's support for increasing the number of permanent and non-permanent representatives on the UNSC. "While earlier, there was reluctance on the part of the P-5 to acknowledge the aspect of UN Security Council reforms; now you see them highlighting the need to undertake such a reform, as evidenced by US President Joe Biden’s statement in September 2023," Patil said. Along with Japan, Brazil and Germany, India is part of G4 political cooperative alliance. The four countries support each other’s bids for permanent seats in the UN Security Council. "In the upcoming Summit of the Future, India and other like-minded nations will undoubtedly press for text-based negotiations at the IGN to move the needle," Patil added.

India at UN in 2023: How Delhi's case for reformed UN Security Council is stronger than ever

<p>In a move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India's Congress party has officially announced a 16-member Manifesto Committee, with the experienced former finance minister P Chidambaram at its helm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The committee comprises a mix of seasoned politicians and emerging leaders, reflecting a diverse representation.</p>

<p>Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, along with stalwarts Anand Sharma, Jairam Ramesh, and Shashi Tharoor, are among the&nbsp;notable figures in the committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-clears-bill-to-appoint-three-poll-officers-in-elections-672121">Indian Parliament clears bill to appoint three poll officers in elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The inclusion of fifth generation member of India's Nehru-Gandhi family, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also adds a significant political weight. While T S Singh Deo, a senior leader from central Indian state of Chhattisgarh takes on the pivotal role of the committee's convenor.</p>

<p>The committee also features Lok Sabha Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi, and Rajya Sabha members Ranjeet Ranjan and Imran Pratapgarhi. Jignesh Mevani, a Congress leader from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state of Gujarat, is also the member of the manifesto committee.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;I.N.D.I.A Election: Who is the opposition's face?</strong></p>

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<p>Praveen Chakravarty, the head of All India Professionals&nbsp;Congress, and K Raju, the national coordinator of SC/ST, OBC, and Minority Departments, complete the rest of the composition of the party.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>This strategic move comes hot on the heels of the Congress Working Committee's (CWC) resolution, adopted just a day ago.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“This meeting of the CWC expresses its firmest resolve to be fully prepared at the earliest to fight the forthcoming Lok Sabha election both as a party in its own right and also as a member of the INDIA group. It reiterates the determination of the Indian National Congress to take all steps necessary to make the INDIA group an effective bulwark and force against the BJP and its allies,” the resolution said.</p>

<p>As the political landscape evolves in the lead-up to the elections, the Manifesto Committee's formation underscores the Congress'&nbsp;proactive stance, signaling its approach towards shaping its electoral agenda and strategies for the upcoming electoral battle.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India's Congress party has officially announced a 16-member Manifesto Committee, with the experienced former finance minister P Chidambaram at its helm.

In a move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India's Congress party has officially announced a 16-member Manifesto Committee, with the experienced former finance minister P Chidambaram at its helm. The committee comprises a mix of seasoned politicians and emerging leaders, reflecting a diverse representation. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, along with stalwarts Anand Sharma, Jairam Ramesh, and Shashi Tharoor, are among the notable figures in the committee. Also read | Indian Parliament clears bill to appoint three poll officers in elections The inclusion of fifth generation member of India's Nehru-Gandhi family, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also adds a significant political weight. While T S Singh Deo, a senior leader from central Indian state of Chhattisgarh takes on the pivotal role of the committee's convenor. The committee also features Lok Sabha Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi, and Rajya Sabha members Ranjeet Ranjan and Imran Pratapgarhi. Jignesh Mevani, a Congress leader from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state of Gujarat, is also the member of the manifesto committee. Also watch | I.N.D.I.A Election: Who is the opposition's face? × Praveen Chakravarty, the head of All India Professionals Congress, and K Raju, the national coordinator of SC/ST, OBC, and Minority Departments, complete the rest of the composition of the party. What does it mean? This strategic move comes hot on the heels of the Congress Working Committee's (CWC) resolution, adopted just a day ago. “This meeting of the CWC expresses its firmest resolve to be fully prepared at the earliest to fight the forthcoming Lok Sabha election both as a party in its own right and also as a member of the INDIA group. It reiterates the determination of the Indian National Congress to take all steps necessary to make the INDIA group an effective bulwark and force against the BJP and its allies,” the resolution said. As the political landscape evolves in the lead-up to the elections, the Manifesto Committee's formation underscores the Congress' proactive stance, signaling its approach towards shaping its electoral agenda and strategies for the upcoming electoral battle. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Congress party constitutes manifesto committee ahead of 2024 polls

<p>The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also&nbsp;revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February.</p>

<p>The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-admits-losing-cipher-during-interrogation-by-fia-in-attock-jail-629664">Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order.</p>

<p>The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced&nbsp; Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also&nbsp;declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017.</p>

<p>It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections.</p>

<h2><strong>PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X.</p>

<h2><strong>No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is a country with&nbsp;one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward in terms of Human Development Indicators.</p>

<p>Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-bat-for-imran-khan-pakistans-election-commission-may-take-away-ptis-electoral-symbol-662157">No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol</a></strong></p>

<p>In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>


The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February. The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol. Also read | Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail "It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order. The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017. It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections. PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan' Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019. "The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X. No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean? Pakistan is a country with one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan. Also read | No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party says loss of election symbol part of ‘London plan’

<p>Cuba has become the second country in Latin America and the Caribbean to legalise euthanasia — the practise of intentionally ending life to eliminate pain and suffering — following in the footsteps of Colombia. The decision was approved by the Communist-run country's National Assembly as part of a legislation that was aimed at updating the legal framework of Cuba's universal and free healthcare system.</p>

<p>The recently passed legislation affirms, "The right of people to a dignified death is recognised in end-of-life decisions, which may include the limitation of therapeutic effort, continuous or palliative care, and valid procedures that end life."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The development marks a significant step for the South American nation as it establishes guidelines for future euthanasia practices which cover&nbsp;both active euthanasia and assisted suicide.</p>

<p>The subjects&nbsp;of euthanasia and medically assisted suicide are&nbsp;often met with religious opposition&nbsp;and continue to stir global controversy. While only a handful of countries permit these practices, some view them as contentious and akin to murder.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/between-legal-and-moral-the-case-for-and-against-euthanasia-1700327497895">Between legal and moral: The case for and against Euthanasia</a></strong></p>

<p>At Havana’s Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology, the country’s leading cancer centre, Dr Alberto Roque, who has a masters in bioethics, welcomed the measure and said it established the "legal framework for future euthanasia in any of its forms, that is, active euthanasia or assisted suicide."</p>

<h2><strong>Discourse in Cuba around euthanasia</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report by Reuters, outside the cancer institute, 47-year-old nurse Suaima Lopez, suffering from rectal cancer, said she favoured euthanasia in case she or other patients did not recover.</p>

<p>"Families want to keep loved ones alive until the very, very last moment but one has to think of those suffering," Lopez was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland</strong></p>

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<p>"If only we could have a dignified death… at a certain moment when nothing can be done anymore… let me die peacefully, in peace and harmony," she said.</p>

<p>Countries like Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Canada, Australia, Spain, Germany, New Zealand, and certain U.S. states already permit euthanasia and, in some instances, medically assisted suicide for cases of intense suffering without a terminal illness.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Cuba has become the second country in Latin America and the Caribbean to legalise euthanasia — the practise of intentionally ending life to eliminate pain and suffering — following in the footsteps of Colombia.

Cuba has become the second country in Latin America and the Caribbean to legalise euthanasia — the practise of intentionally ending life to eliminate pain and suffering — following in the footsteps of Colombia. The decision was approved by the Communist-run country's National Assembly as part of a legislation that was aimed at updating the legal framework of Cuba's universal and free healthcare system. The recently passed legislation affirms, "The right of people to a dignified death is recognised in end-of-life decisions, which may include the limitation of therapeutic effort, continuous or palliative care, and valid procedures that end life." What does it mean? The development marks a significant step for the South American nation as it establishes guidelines for future euthanasia practices which cover both active euthanasia and assisted suicide. The subjects of euthanasia and medically assisted suicide are often met with religious opposition and continue to stir global controversy. While only a handful of countries permit these practices, some view them as contentious and akin to murder. Also read | Between legal and moral: The case for and against Euthanasia At Havana’s Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology, the country’s leading cancer centre, Dr Alberto Roque, who has a masters in bioethics, welcomed the measure and said it established the "legal framework for future euthanasia in any of its forms, that is, active euthanasia or assisted suicide." Discourse in Cuba around euthanasia According to a report by Reuters, outside the cancer institute, 47-year-old nurse Suaima Lopez, suffering from rectal cancer, said she favoured euthanasia in case she or other patients did not recover. "Families want to keep loved ones alive until the very, very last moment but one has to think of those suffering," Lopez was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also watch | Gravitas: Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland × "If only we could have a dignified death… at a certain moment when nothing can be done anymore… let me die peacefully, in peace and harmony," she said. Countries like Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Canada, Australia, Spain, Germany, New Zealand, and certain U.S. states already permit euthanasia and, in some instances, medically assisted suicide for cases of intense suffering without a terminal illness. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Right to a dignified death’: Cuba follows Colombia as it legalises euthanasia

<p>Days after India's Akash Missile system engaged four targets at once, multiple countries from South America, West Asia and Africa have reportedly shown interest in the acquisition of the surface-to-air missile (SAM) weapon system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defence sources cited by India Today said that&nbsp;the Akash missile system has generated a lot of interest in some countries, including the Philippines, Brazil and Egypt.</p>

<p>In recent years, India has made consistent efforts to push the&nbsp;weapon exports of India-made weapons.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-demonstrates-unmatched-astrashakti-after-akash-engages-four-targets-at-once-670546">India demonstrates unmatched ‘Astrashakti’ as ‘Akash’ unit neutralises four targets in one go</a></strong></p>

<p>Already, the Akash SAM weapon system has&nbsp;received a significant export order from Armenia, with supplies scheduled to commence in the next few months.</p>

<p>"The deliveries to Armenia are expected to begin in the next few months from now. In the meanwhile, many countries including Brazil, Egypt and the Philippines have shown interest in the Akash missile system," a defence official&nbsp;told ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/which-are-the-deadliest-missiles-filling-up-indias-arsenal-indias-next-generation-of-missiles-585840">Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal? India's next generation of missiles</a></strong></p>

<p>On December 12, India demonstrated the firepower of the indigenous Akash missile system at Suryalanka Air Force Station, where four targets (unmanned aerial targets) were engaged simultaneously by a single Akash firing unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Akash firing unit was deployed with Firing Level Radar (FLR), Firing Control Centre (FCC), and two Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) launchers having five armed missiles," a defence official was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.</p>

<p>The successful demonstration of the Akash missile system has now added to India's weapon-export initiatives.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Akash Weapon System</strong></h2>

<p>The Akash Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by defence public sector units along with other industries.</p>

<p>The Akash missile system comprises a launcher, a set of missiles, a control centre, a built-in mission guidance system and C4I (command, control communication and intelligence) centres. It also supports ground equipment along with a radar named Rajendra which accompanies each of the missile batteries.</p>

<p>It is 96 per cent Made in India, according to the Ministry of Defence.</p>

<p>Akash has been deployed by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army in the last decade.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Days after India's Akash Missile system engaged four targets at once, multiple countries from South America, West Asia and Africa have reportedly shown interest in the acquisition of the surface-to-air missile (SAM) weapon system.

Days after India's Akash Missile system engaged four targets at once, multiple countries from South America, West Asia and Africa have reportedly shown interest in the acquisition of the surface-to-air missile (SAM) weapon system. Defence sources cited by India Today said that the Akash missile system has generated a lot of interest in some countries, including the Philippines, Brazil and Egypt. In recent years, India has made consistent efforts to push the weapon exports of India-made weapons. Also read | India demonstrates unmatched ‘Astrashakti’ as ‘Akash’ unit neutralises four targets in one go Already, the Akash SAM weapon system has received a significant export order from Armenia, with supplies scheduled to commence in the next few months. "The deliveries to Armenia are expected to begin in the next few months from now. In the meanwhile, many countries including Brazil, Egypt and the Philippines have shown interest in the Akash missile system," a defence official told ANI. Also read | Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal? India's next generation of missiles On December 12, India demonstrated the firepower of the indigenous Akash missile system at Suryalanka Air Force Station, where four targets (unmanned aerial targets) were engaged simultaneously by a single Akash firing unit. "The Akash firing unit was deployed with Firing Level Radar (FLR), Firing Control Centre (FCC), and two Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) launchers having five armed missiles," a defence official was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. The successful demonstration of the Akash missile system has now added to India's weapon-export initiatives. Akash Weapon System The Akash Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by defence public sector units along with other industries. The Akash missile system comprises a launcher, a set of missiles, a control centre, a built-in mission guidance system and C4I (command, control communication and intelligence) centres. It also supports ground equipment along with a radar named Rajendra which accompanies each of the missile batteries. It is 96 per cent Made in India, according to the Ministry of Defence. Akash has been deployed by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army in the last decade. (With inputs from agencies)

Made in India 'Akash' missile system generates interest globally after major breakthrough: Report

<p>In a rare sighting, beachgoers in southern India's Chennai discovered two venomous marine organisms typically found in the deep sea. The Blue Sea Dragon (<em>Glaucus atlanticus</em>), and colonies of polyps known as Blue Button (<em>Porpita porpita</em>) were spotted in the Besant Nagar locality of the Tamil Nadu capital.</p>

<h2><strong>When was this discovery made?</strong></h2>

<p>On December 17, Srivatsan Ramkumar, a Chennai resident working with the Environmentalist Foundation of India, reported the presence of these marine creatures along the stretch between the broken bridge and the Ashtalakshmi temple in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/large-sea-creature-with-20-arms-found-in-antarctic-ocean-624539">Massive sea creature with 20 arms attached to a strawberry-shaped body found in Antarctic Ocean</a></strong></p>

<p>“Hundreds of them had washed ashore between the broken bridge and the Ashtalakshmi temple stretch of the beach. While a large number of them were dead, I spotted some Blue Sea Dragons and Blue Button which were alive,” Ramkumar was quoted as saying by The News Minute.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are Blue Buttons?</strong></h2>

<p>Blue Buttons, resembling button-like shapes, are not singular organisms but colonies of small predators called hydroids. The Blue Buttons are often confused with jellyfish.</p>

<h2><strong>What are Blue Sea Dragons?</strong></h2>

<p>The Blue Sea Dragon, a rare deep-sea organism, is known for its unique appearance.</p>

<p>It is a sea slug, a class of marine organisms that are shell-less molluscs with a wide range of colours and shapes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Over a billion sea creatures died off US, Canada coast in 2021</strong></p>

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<p>The Blue Sea Dragon, with its ability to camouflage using both blue and silver sides, is a captivating sight, particularly when forming groups known as 'blue fleets'.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report in The News Minute, the unusual appearance of these marine creatures on the shores of Chennai has been linked to Cyclone Michaung.</p>

<p>"After cyclonic disturbances, flushing of the sea bed is a common occurrence. On Chennai’s shore, spotting Blue Sea Dragons is not a regular occurrence but they do show up once in a while. It is best not to touch them," Prashanth E, Tamil Nadu Forest Department, Wildlife Warden told the news publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a rare sighting, beachgoers in southern India's Chennai discovered two venomous marine organisms typically found in the deep sea. The Blue Sea Dragon (Glaucus atlanticus), and colonies of polyps known as Blue Button (Porpita porpita) were spotted in the Besant Nagar locality of the Tamil Nadu capital.

In a rare sighting, beachgoers in southern India's Chennai discovered two venomous marine organisms typically found in the deep sea. The Blue Sea Dragon (Glaucus atlanticus), and colonies of polyps known as Blue Button (Porpita porpita) were spotted in the Besant Nagar locality of the Tamil Nadu capital. When was this discovery made? On December 17, Srivatsan Ramkumar, a Chennai resident working with the Environmentalist Foundation of India, reported the presence of these marine creatures along the stretch between the broken bridge and the Ashtalakshmi temple in the city. Also read | Massive sea creature with 20 arms attached to a strawberry-shaped body found in Antarctic Ocean “Hundreds of them had washed ashore between the broken bridge and the Ashtalakshmi temple stretch of the beach. While a large number of them were dead, I spotted some Blue Sea Dragons and Blue Button which were alive,” Ramkumar was quoted as saying by The News Minute. What are Blue Buttons? Blue Buttons, resembling button-like shapes, are not singular organisms but colonies of small predators called hydroids. The Blue Buttons are often confused with jellyfish. What are Blue Sea Dragons? The Blue Sea Dragon, a rare deep-sea organism, is known for its unique appearance. It is a sea slug, a class of marine organisms that are shell-less molluscs with a wide range of colours and shapes. Also watch | Over a billion sea creatures died off US, Canada coast in 2021 × The Blue Sea Dragon, with its ability to camouflage using both blue and silver sides, is a captivating sight, particularly when forming groups known as 'blue fleets'. What does it mean? According to a report in The News Minute, the unusual appearance of these marine creatures on the shores of Chennai has been linked to Cyclone Michaung. "After cyclonic disturbances, flushing of the sea bed is a common occurrence. On Chennai’s shore, spotting Blue Sea Dragons is not a regular occurrence but they do show up once in a while. It is best not to touch them," Prashanth E, Tamil Nadu Forest Department, Wildlife Warden told the news publication. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclonic events in Indian Ocean throw Blue Sea Dragon, Blue Button off Chennai coast

<p>Police in South America's&nbsp;Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Armstrong was reportedly abducted on Saturday&nbsp;from his home in the town of Baba in Los Rios province, local Ecuavisa outlet reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Colin Armstrong rescue operation: How it occurred?</strong></h2>

<p>According to General Cesar Zapata, Commander General of the Police in Ecuador,&nbsp;Armstrong&nbsp;was released on Wednesday and was now safe.</p>

<p>Zapata added that nine people had been apprehended in the operation, one foreign national&nbsp;and eight Ecuadoreans.</p>

<p>Zapata later told reporters that&nbsp;a&nbsp;Colombian woman was kidnapped along with Armstrong before being abandoned in a residential area of Guayaquil. The woman was attached with what appeared to be explosives but they later turned out to be fake.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-third-political-leader-killed-in-a-week-after-presidential-hopefuls-assassination-625774">Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a report in the Reuters, police carried out more than 30 raids on homes, uncovering grenades, firearms, ammunition and drugs. They also located a vehicle they say was used for the kidnapping.</p>

<h2><strong>Why&nbsp;was Armstrong kidnapped?</strong></h2>

<p>The police said that kidnapping was economically motivated. "We will not allow impunity. Police actions continue," Interior Minister Monica Palencia added on the social media platform.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-drugs-gang-warfare-and-corruption-transformed-ecuador-625424">Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder</a></strong></p>

<p>Kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common in Ecuador amid rising crime largely attributed to drug trafficking gangs active in the region.</p>

<p>Britain's ambassador in Ecuador, Chris Campbell, thanked the police for the rescue.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from the agencies)</em></p>


Police in South America's Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito.

Police in South America's Ecuador rescued a prominent British businessman on Wednesday (Dec 20) morning, four days after he was reported missing. Colin Armstrong was also Britain's former honorary consul in the industrial city of Guayaquil, about 431 km south of capital Quito. Armstrong was reportedly abducted on Saturday from his home in the town of Baba in Los Rios province, local Ecuavisa outlet reported. Colin Armstrong rescue operation: How it occurred? According to General Cesar Zapata, Commander General of the Police in Ecuador, Armstrong was released on Wednesday and was now safe. Zapata added that nine people had been apprehended in the operation, one foreign national and eight Ecuadoreans. Zapata later told reporters that a Colombian woman was kidnapped along with Armstrong before being abandoned in a residential area of Guayaquil. The woman was attached with what appeared to be explosives but they later turned out to be fake. Also read | Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination According to a report in the Reuters, police carried out more than 30 raids on homes, uncovering grenades, firearms, ammunition and drugs. They also located a vehicle they say was used for the kidnapping. Why was Armstrong kidnapped? The police said that kidnapping was economically motivated. "We will not allow impunity. Police actions continue," Interior Minister Monica Palencia added on the social media platform. Also read | Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder Kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common in Ecuador amid rising crime largely attributed to drug trafficking gangs active in the region. Britain's ambassador in Ecuador, Chris Campbell, thanked the police for the rescue. (With inputs from the agencies)

Ecuador: Colin Armstrong, British businessman rescued, nine arrested

Friends, The Office, Modern Family: Best Christmas Episodes


Friends S07E10: 'The One With The Holiday Armadillo'

This is our first Christmas without the mortal presence of Matthew Perry, the beloved Chandler Bing of the show who passed away recently. If Friends now feels like homage to Perry's superlative flamboyance to you, then this episode is a must-watch on Christmas. Because Bing still asks Ross: "What are you doing here… weird… turtle… man?!"


Friends S02E09: 'The One With Phoebe's Dad'


Phoebe confronts her father with Joey and Chandler. On the way back they buy gifts for the gang. Don't miss Nat King Cole's 'The Christmas Song' that has makes this one truly one of the greatest sitcom Christmas episodes ever.


The introduction to a Dundr Mifflin Christmas is rather ho-ho-howdy. Jim's thoughtful gift to Pam takes the cake.


Holly's return to Michael Scott's office is one of the most heartwarming moments in the show. Scott's insistence to have an upscale Christmas celebration creates laughs and gaffes in equal proportions.


The show kicks off the holiday special of its inaugural season at a remarkable high. The lack of funny moments are made up for with heartfelt ones.


Modern Family S11E09: 'The Last Christmas'

The episode achieves climactic realism for the show. Conflicts arise. Bickering occurs. But the family puts together the best Christmas show ever.

Planning your Christmas binge. Here's the list for you from the best of the sitcoms out there.

Six Relationship Lessons From Modern Family


Phil and Claire, Gloria and Jay, Cam and Mitchell. The sitcom had some relationship lessons, and more than few. Spoilers ahead. You’ve been warned. 

Hailey could not move beyond Dylan. The eldest Dunphy girl had the potential to spread her sass as fashion designer. She lost her individuality because she put her relationship with Dylan before her dreams.


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A Great Partner Would Prioritise Their Partner’s Dreams


No hurdle could prevent Phil from supporting Claire’s return to work. Claire revived her sense of being at work. And Phil deserves his due credit for it. 

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Quirks Keep The Relationship Alive and Kicking


Mitchell and Cameroon had each other during their every goofy step in the show. Quirks keep the relationship fun, alive and kicking.


It Takes Effort For Love To Not Fade Away


Gloria and Jay made efforts to keep their charm alive. Jay decided to take Spanish lessons at the end of ‘Queer Eyes, Full Hearts’ to make Gloria happy. Later in season 11, Jay tried taking Spanish lessons again. Gloria was full of love, obviously.


Establishing Some Relationship Rituals Can Do The Trick


Claire and Phil celebrated every Valentine’s Day together and always made sure to go to a nice restaurant. Their role-play in which Claire pretended to be a woman named Julianna, whereas Phil was Clive Bixby really made them love each other more.


https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2023-12-21 at 06-1703119370182.mp4

Phil and Claire were a united front when it came to looking after their children. One example was in the fifth season episode ‘iSpy’ when they thought that Luke was doing drugs. They spied on him together and learned that he was just making a movie.


Modern Family had some relationship lessons, and more than few. Spoilers ahead. You’ve been warned.

<p>Harvard University&nbsp;President Claudine Gay has been accused of more than 40 additional accusations of plagiarising other people's work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a 37-page document obtained by the Washington Free Beacon, Gay, a political scientist, allegedly quoted or paraphrased authors without proper attribution in her academic works.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outlet reported that it independently verified the veracity of the accusations along with the identity of the author — a respected professor at another university reportedly said&nbsp;requesting&nbsp;anonymity.</p>

<p>“[I]t is impossible that your office has already reviewed the entirety of these materials, as many … have not been previously reported or submitted,” the complaint, which was filed with Harvard on Tuesday, reads.</p>

<h2><strong>Claudine Gay plagiarism row</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, the plagiarism accusations against Gay surfaced when she was accused of lifting other scholars’ works in her 1997 doctoral thesis and that four papers published between 1993 and 2017 did not have proper attributions.</p>

<p>Carol Swain, a former political science professor at Vanderbilt University, said Gay copied sections of her 1993 book, "Black Faces, Black Interests: The Representation of African Americans in Congress," as well as an article published in 1997 titled, “Women and Blacks in Congress: 1870-1996."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Claudine Gay: Harvard president won't lose job over Antisemitism row</strong></p>

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<p>She added in an essay for the Wall Street Journal: “Ms. Gay had no problem riding on the coattails of people whose work she used without proper attribution. Many of those whose work she pilfered aren’t as incensed as I am. They are elites who have benefited from a system that protects its own.”</p>

<h2><strong>Gay's defence</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement to the Boston Globe, Gay has vehemently defended her academic rigor, saying: "I stand by the integrity of my scholarship. Throughout my career, I have worked to ensure my scholarship adheres to the highest academic standards."</p>


Harvard University President Claudine Gay has been accused of more than 40 additional accusations of plagiarising other people's work. According to a 37-page document obtained by the Washington Free Beacon, Gay, a political scientist, allegedly quoted or paraphrased authors without proper attribution in her academic works.

Harvard University President Claudine Gay has been accused of more than 40 additional accusations of plagiarising other people's work. According to a 37-page document obtained by the Washington Free Beacon, Gay, a political scientist, allegedly quoted or paraphrased authors without proper attribution in her academic works. The outlet reported that it independently verified the veracity of the accusations along with the identity of the author — a respected professor at another university reportedly said requesting anonymity. “[I]t is impossible that your office has already reviewed the entirety of these materials, as many … have not been previously reported or submitted,” the complaint, which was filed with Harvard on Tuesday, reads. Claudine Gay plagiarism row Earlier this month, the plagiarism accusations against Gay surfaced when she was accused of lifting other scholars’ works in her 1997 doctoral thesis and that four papers published between 1993 and 2017 did not have proper attributions. Carol Swain, a former political science professor at Vanderbilt University, said Gay copied sections of her 1993 book, "Black Faces, Black Interests: The Representation of African Americans in Congress," as well as an article published in 1997 titled, “Women and Blacks in Congress: 1870-1996." Also watch | Claudine Gay: Harvard president won't lose job over Antisemitism row × She added in an essay for the Wall Street Journal: “Ms. Gay had no problem riding on the coattails of people whose work she used without proper attribution. Many of those whose work she pilfered aren’t as incensed as I am. They are elites who have benefited from a system that protects its own.” Gay's defence In a statement to the Boston Globe, Gay has vehemently defended her academic rigor, saying: "I stand by the integrity of my scholarship. Throughout my career, I have worked to ensure my scholarship adheres to the highest academic standards."

Harvard president Claudine Gay accused of 40 plagiarism instances in new complaint

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