<p>The cringe-evoking pangolins&nbsp;are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either. Further, their potential <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7156161/">link with the origin of Covid pandemic</a>, has eroded their prominence within the traditional medicine landscape of Asian countries, even inside the wet markets of China and Thailand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it has emerged that there are more pangolin species than previously believed.</p>

<p>The mammal masquerading as a reptile has nine species and not eight as was previously believed, according to a finding published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.</p>

<h2><strong>What have the researchers found about pangolins?</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers have found that the scales of Pangolins confiscated in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013 and in Yunnan, China, in 2015 and 2019 belong to a previously unrecognised pangolin species.</p>

<p>Pangolins are dressed up with a coat of scales, and sharp claws and produce absurdly sticky saliva.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discovered pangolin species&nbsp;is yet to be formally described.</p>

<p>"It’s probably being captured and being called a Sunda pangolin or something like that," Matthew Shirley, a conservation biologist at Florida International University and chair of the Species Survival Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature was quoted as saying by the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pangolins remain susceptible to poaching due to their purported significance in traditional medication practices in China, Mongolia and parts of Southeast Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million</strong></p>

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<p>According to Dr Shirley, piecing together the genetic diversity of pangolins is important for stopping their poaching.</p>

<p>To find out where illegally trafficked scales are coming from, and which pangolin species are most at risk from poaching, the authorities need a strong reference database that matches pangolin genetics with geographic locations, Dr Shirley said, according to the New York Times.</p>

<p>An estimated 200,000 Sunda pangolins have been illegally traded in the decade between 2007 and 2017, according to the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Pangolin Specialist Group.</p>

<p>In 2016, it was estimated that since 2000, more than one&nbsp;million pangolins were traded illegally worldwide, making them&nbsp;the most trafficked wild mammal in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Wildlife significance of Pangolins</strong></h2>

<p>Pangolins are wildlife scavengers. An adult pangolin weighing 6.6 pounds (about 3 kg) can consume more than 0.66 (0.29 kg) pounds of termites in one meal. Their&nbsp;big appetite means that one pangolin can protect an area as large as 31 football fields (41 acres) from termite destruction.&nbsp;</p>

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The cringe-evoking pangolins are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either.

The cringe-evoking pangolins are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either. Further, their potential link with the origin of Covid pandemic, has eroded their prominence within the traditional medicine landscape of Asian countries, even inside the wet markets of China and Thailand. However, it has emerged that there are more pangolin species than previously believed. The mammal masquerading as a reptile has nine species and not eight as was previously believed, according to a finding published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. What have the researchers found about pangolins? Researchers have found that the scales of Pangolins confiscated in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013 and in Yunnan, China, in 2015 and 2019 belong to a previously unrecognised pangolin species. Pangolins are dressed up with a coat of scales, and sharp claws and produce absurdly sticky saliva. The discovered pangolin species is yet to be formally described. "It’s probably being captured and being called a Sunda pangolin or something like that," Matthew Shirley, a conservation biologist at Florida International University and chair of the Species Survival Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature was quoted as saying by the New York Times. What does it mean? Pangolins remain susceptible to poaching due to their purported significance in traditional medication practices in China, Mongolia and parts of Southeast Asia. Also watch | Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million × According to Dr Shirley, piecing together the genetic diversity of pangolins is important for stopping their poaching. To find out where illegally trafficked scales are coming from, and which pangolin species are most at risk from poaching, the authorities need a strong reference database that matches pangolin genetics with geographic locations, Dr Shirley said, according to the New York Times. An estimated 200,000 Sunda pangolins have been illegally traded in the decade between 2007 and 2017, according to the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Pangolin Specialist Group. In 2016, it was estimated that since 2000, more than one million pangolins were traded illegally worldwide, making them the most trafficked wild mammal in the world. Wildlife significance of Pangolins Pangolins are wildlife scavengers. An adult pangolin weighing 6.6 pounds (about 3 kg) can consume more than 0.66 (0.29 kg) pounds of termites in one meal. Their big appetite means that one pangolin can protect an area as large as 31 football fields (41 acres) from termite destruction. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pangolins, made famous by Covid, have more species than previously known: Study

<p>The cost of living crisis in the United Kingdom&nbsp;will cause thousands of premature deaths in the country currently under Rishi Sunak's premiership and will expand the gap between the richest and poorest in the matters of health as well as financial positioning, a study&nbsp;published in the journal BMJ Public Health&nbsp;has suggested.</p>

<h2><strong>Why so many premature deaths predicted in the UK?</strong></h2>

<p>Millions of British have been hit hard with levels of inflation not seen since the 1970s as a result of the war in Ukraine, Covid, Brexit and their collective economic ramifications coupled with frequent exit of Prime Ministers from 10, Downing Street over past few years of significant shifts in the British polity.</p>

<p>Poorer households have borne the brunt as they spend a larger proportion of their income on energy, the cost of which has soared due to increased gas prices due to Russia's tightening of the noose on European energy supply following the war in Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>UK cost of living crisis: What's the big picture?</strong></h2>

<p>The modelling study suggests premature deaths – people dying before they reach 75 – will rise 6.5 per cent this year due to the cost of living crisis, with 30 extra deaths per 100,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/part-time-jobs-skipped-meals-indian-students-in-uk-battle-to-stay-afloat-535104">Part-time jobs, skipped meals: Indian students in UK battle to stay afloat</a></strong></p>

<p>The study focused on Scotland. But the researchers, from Public Health Scotland and the University of Glasgow, said “similar effects are likely across the UK as we have modelled the impact of UK government measures”.</p>

<p>The predicted increase in premature deaths – from a baseline 463 per 100,000 people to 493 per 100,000 – equates to thousands of extra deaths a year in the UK.</p>

<h2><strong>But it's a modelling study, so take it with a pinch of salt</strong></h2>

<p>It must be noted that a number of such modelling studies, mostly heralded by epidemiologists during the Covid pandemic, predicted several million deaths due to contagion virus, none of which came true.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official death count numbers up to a little less than 7 million globally.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Premature deaths in babies will rise by 6.5% in 2023, vulnerable households to suffer the most</strong></p>

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<p>A study at the Imperial College London had showed that if the Covid had spread unchecked in the United States, 80 per cent of America will be infected and 0.9 per cent of people will die.&nbsp;If one was to project&nbsp;same figures for the world then 90 million people would have died of coronavirus but officially, the official death count is just 7 million.</p>

<p>For the latest UK study, the&nbsp;scenario modelling estimated the effect of recent high inflation on household incomes, mitigation measures' impact of potentially modifying these effects, and how death rates, life expectancy and inequalities would change as a result.</p>

<p>In every scenario modelled, households in the most deprived areas were the hardest hit in relative terms, even with government support, and will be £1,400 ($1703)&nbsp;&nbsp;worse off in 2022/23, the study found.</p>

<p>Without any mitigation, inflation will increase premature deaths by 5 per cent in the least deprived areas and by 23 per cent&nbsp;in the most deprived, the study suggests.</p>

<p>The study indicated that the premature deaths in the poorest households are predicted to rise at a rate four times faster than in the wealthiest.</p>

<p>Overall life expectancy also falls in each of the three scenarios modelled. But in each case, larger reductions in life expectancy were predicted in the most deprived areas.</p>

<h2><strong>Limitations to the modeling</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers acknowledged limitations to their modelling. For example, their price inflation estimates didn’t include the costs associated with owning, maintaining and living in one’s own home or other factors affecting household expenditure.</p>

<p>They concluded: "The mortality impacts of inflation and real-terms income reduction are likely to be large and negative, with marked inequalities in how these are experienced. Implemented public policy responses are not sufficient to protect health and prevent widening inequalities."</p>

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The cost of living crisis in the United Kingdom will cause thousands of premature deaths in the country currently under Rishi Sunak's premiership and will expand the gap between the richest and poorest in the matters of health as well as financial positioning, a study published in the journal BMJ Public Health has suggested.

The cost of living crisis in the United Kingdom will cause thousands of premature deaths in the country currently under Rishi Sunak's premiership and will expand the gap between the richest and poorest in the matters of health as well as financial positioning, a study published in the journal BMJ Public Health has suggested. Why so many premature deaths predicted in the UK? Millions of British have been hit hard with levels of inflation not seen since the 1970s as a result of the war in Ukraine, Covid, Brexit and their collective economic ramifications coupled with frequent exit of Prime Ministers from 10, Downing Street over past few years of significant shifts in the British polity. Poorer households have borne the brunt as they spend a larger proportion of their income on energy, the cost of which has soared due to increased gas prices due to Russia's tightening of the noose on European energy supply following the war in Ukraine. UK cost of living crisis: What's the big picture? The modelling study suggests premature deaths – people dying before they reach 75 – will rise 6.5 per cent this year due to the cost of living crisis, with 30 extra deaths per 100,000 people. Also read | Part-time jobs, skipped meals: Indian students in UK battle to stay afloat The study focused on Scotland. But the researchers, from Public Health Scotland and the University of Glasgow, said “similar effects are likely across the UK as we have modelled the impact of UK government measures”. The predicted increase in premature deaths – from a baseline 463 per 100,000 people to 493 per 100,000 – equates to thousands of extra deaths a year in the UK. But it's a modelling study, so take it with a pinch of salt It must be noted that a number of such modelling studies, mostly heralded by epidemiologists during the Covid pandemic, predicted several million deaths due to contagion virus, none of which came true. The official death count numbers up to a little less than 7 million globally. Also watch | UK: Premature deaths in babies will rise by 6.5% in 2023, vulnerable households to suffer the most × A study at the Imperial College London had showed that if the Covid had spread unchecked in the United States, 80 per cent of America will be infected and 0.9 per cent of people will die. If one was to project same figures for the world then 90 million people would have died of coronavirus but officially, the official death count is just 7 million. For the latest UK study, the scenario modelling estimated the effect of recent high inflation on household incomes, mitigation measures' impact of potentially modifying these effects, and how death rates, life expectancy and inequalities would change as a result. In every scenario modelled, households in the most deprived areas were the hardest hit in relative terms, even with government support, and will be £1,400 ($1703) worse off in 2022/23, the study found. Without any mitigation, inflation will increase premature deaths by 5 per cent in the least deprived areas and by 23 per cent in the most deprived, the study suggests. The study indicated that the premature deaths in the poorest households are predicted to rise at a rate four times faster than in the wealthiest. Overall life expectancy also falls in each of the three scenarios modelled. But in each case, larger reductions in life expectancy were predicted in the most deprived areas. Limitations to the modeling The researchers acknowledged limitations to their modelling. For example, their price inflation estimates didn’t include the costs associated with owning, maintaining and living in one’s own home or other factors affecting household expenditure. They concluded: "The mortality impacts of inflation and real-terms income reduction are likely to be large and negative, with marked inequalities in how these are experienced. Implemented public policy responses are not sufficient to protect health and prevent widening inequalities." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK projected to see premature deaths as cost of living hits hard deprived British

<p>As tensions between India and Canada continue to escalate after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that&nbsp;Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Baloch Human Rights Council of Canada (BHRC) has raised concerns about the&nbsp;inaction over&nbsp;the abduction and alleged murder of exiled Baloch human rights activist Karima Baloch in 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to Karima Baloch?</strong></h2>

<p>The body of Karima Baloch was found in Toronto in 2020. She had been&nbsp;living in exile for five years due to terrorism charges in Pakistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Renowned Pak activist Karima Baloch found dead in Toronto</strong></p>

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<p>A vocal critic of the Pakistani military and spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) —&nbsp;collectively dubbed as establishment —Karima Baloch hailed from the region of Balochistan in western Pakistan.</p>

<p>Accusing Trudeau of political maneuvering and overlooking Baloch's death, the BHRC expressed its reservations to the Canadian prime minister and underscored the&nbsp;inconsistencies in the government's response to her mysterious demise.</p>

<p><strong>Karima Baloch Vs Hardeep Singh Nijjar: The difference</strong></p>

<p>The BHRC claimed that there was a "stark contrast" with the Canadian government’s actions on the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar.</p>

<p>It slammed Trudeau’s "conspicuous silence regarding the high-profile, unexplained death of Karima Baloch stands in stark contrast to his impassioned speeches in the House of Commons and extensive media coverage concerning the shooting death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/karima-baloch-was-threatened-anonymously-says-friends-of-slain-activist-352022">Karima Baloch was 'threatened anonymously', says friends of slain activist</a></strong></p>

<p>Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon official and senior fellow at American Enterprise Institute, also slammed Trudeau over&nbsp;Baloch's death.</p>

<p>Rubin said what is striking about Trudeau's "shameless and cynical action" is that while he's making a statement now, the killing of Baloch that was carried out allegedly with Pakistani assistance is a police matter and has not reached higher echelons of power in Ottawa.</p>

<p>Rubin made the remarks during a panel discussion at the Hudson Institute think-tank.</p>

<p>Tensions between India and Canada escalated following Trudeau's explosive allegations, leading to reciprocal diplomatic expulsions.</p>

<p>Nijjar was shot dead in British Columbia on June 18</p>

<p>India has vehemently rejected allegations of its involvement in his death as "absurd" and "motivated."</p>

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As tensions between India and Canada continue to escalate after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Baloch Human Rights Council of Canada (BHRC) has raised concerns about the inaction over the abduction and alleged murder of exiled Baloch human rights activist Karima Baloch in 2020.

As tensions between India and Canada continue to escalate after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Baloch Human Rights Council of Canada (BHRC) has raised concerns about the inaction over the abduction and alleged murder of exiled Baloch human rights activist Karima Baloch in 2020. What happened to Karima Baloch? The body of Karima Baloch was found in Toronto in 2020. She had been living in exile for five years due to terrorism charges in Pakistan. Also watch | Renowned Pak activist Karima Baloch found dead in Toronto × A vocal critic of the Pakistani military and spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) — collectively dubbed as establishment —Karima Baloch hailed from the region of Balochistan in western Pakistan. Accusing Trudeau of political maneuvering and overlooking Baloch's death, the BHRC expressed its reservations to the Canadian prime minister and underscored the inconsistencies in the government's response to her mysterious demise. Karima Baloch Vs Hardeep Singh Nijjar: The difference The BHRC claimed that there was a "stark contrast" with the Canadian government’s actions on the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar. It slammed Trudeau’s "conspicuous silence regarding the high-profile, unexplained death of Karima Baloch stands in stark contrast to his impassioned speeches in the House of Commons and extensive media coverage concerning the shooting death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada". Also read | Karima Baloch was 'threatened anonymously', says friends of slain activist Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon official and senior fellow at American Enterprise Institute, also slammed Trudeau over Baloch's death. Rubin said what is striking about Trudeau's "shameless and cynical action" is that while he's making a statement now, the killing of Baloch that was carried out allegedly with Pakistani assistance is a police matter and has not reached higher echelons of power in Ottawa. Rubin made the remarks during a panel discussion at the Hudson Institute think-tank. Tensions between India and Canada escalated following Trudeau's explosive allegations, leading to reciprocal diplomatic expulsions. Nijjar was shot dead in British Columbia on June 18 India has vehemently rejected allegations of its involvement in his death as "absurd" and "motivated." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Justin Trudeau slammed for inaction over Baloch activist's mysterious death

<p>World Health Organization, in a report released last week, said that more than 180 million (or 18 Crore) people in India are living with hypertension. But despite that, only 37 per cent are aware of their condition as such.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The WHO report further states that only 30 per cent of those diagnosed with the condition started treatment and only 15 per cent managed to keep it under control.</p>

<p>The global health watchdog relied on data from 2019 to come to the conclusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Worldwide, hypertension affects one in three individuals and four out of five do not have it under control, the World Health Organization said in its first-ever report on hypertension released on September 19.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India's state of hypertension: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The remarkably high number of affected people means increased heart stroke incidence. According to a February 2022 study, India has a 108-172 per 100,000 people stroke rate with a one-month fatality rate measured between 18 to 42 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2019, heart attack was the leading cause of death and disability in India, according to the Global Burden of Disease report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-new-study-finds-exercises-like-planks-and-wall-sits-lowers-blood-pressure-619614">Exercises like planks and wall sits help lower blood pressure, reveals new study</a></strong></p>

<p>Hypertension or high BP affects the quality of life of a patient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Uncontrolled hypertension over a long time can lead to heart attacks and strokes and can also affect the kidneys and eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hypertension in India: Efforts by Indian government?</strong></h2>

<p>The government has an ambitious programme by the name of India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI) to take BP care to more than 70 million patients in the next two years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the sheer number of Indian people affected by hypertension is huge in itself, India’s approach to hypertension treatment has seen success.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/young-indias-heart-health-cardiologist-dispels-myths-around-cardiac-activity-570624">Young India's heart health: Cardiologist dispels myths around cardiac activity</a></strong></p>

<p>The IHCI received a 2022 UN Interagency Task Force and the WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award at the UN General Assembly in September last year. The award recognises India’s "highly impactful, large-scale hypertension intervention within India’s existing primary health care system."</p>

<p>According to the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer,&nbsp;Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke, people above the age of 30 should have their blood pressure measured at each interaction with the public health system. This protocol is reported to be followed in most hospitals and public health care systems across India.&nbsp;</p>

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World Health Organization, in a report released last week, said that more than 180 million (or 18 Crore) people in India are living with hypertension. But despite that, only 37 per cent are aware of their condition as such.

World Health Organization, in a report released last week, said that more than 180 million (or 18 Crore) people in India are living with hypertension. But despite that, only 37 per cent are aware of their condition as such. The WHO report further states that only 30 per cent of those diagnosed with the condition started treatment and only 15 per cent managed to keep it under control. The global health watchdog relied on data from 2019 to come to the conclusion. Worldwide, hypertension affects one in three individuals and four out of five do not have it under control, the World Health Organization said in its first-ever report on hypertension released on September 19. India's state of hypertension: What does it mean? The remarkably high number of affected people means increased heart stroke incidence. According to a February 2022 study, India has a 108-172 per 100,000 people stroke rate with a one-month fatality rate measured between 18 to 42 per cent. In 2019, heart attack was the leading cause of death and disability in India, according to the Global Burden of Disease report. Also read | Exercises like planks and wall sits help lower blood pressure, reveals new study Hypertension or high BP affects the quality of life of a patient. Uncontrolled hypertension over a long time can lead to heart attacks and strokes and can also affect the kidneys and eyes. Hypertension in India: Efforts by Indian government? The government has an ambitious programme by the name of India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI) to take BP care to more than 70 million patients in the next two years. While the sheer number of Indian people affected by hypertension is huge in itself, India’s approach to hypertension treatment has seen success. Also read | Young India's heart health: Cardiologist dispels myths around cardiac activity The IHCI received a 2022 UN Interagency Task Force and the WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award at the UN General Assembly in September last year. The award recognises India’s "highly impactful, large-scale hypertension intervention within India’s existing primary health care system." According to the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke, people above the age of 30 should have their blood pressure measured at each interaction with the public health system. This protocol is reported to be followed in most hospitals and public health care systems across India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO report shows how Indians struggle to control their blood pressure

<p>The killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a leader in a widely denounced separatist cause of Khalistan, has now emerged as a "larger and more organised" operation than previously known, according to footage from the site of the killing reported by the Washington Post.</p>

<p>The report cites a number of Khalistani separatists, including Moninder Singh, one of the founders of the Sikh Liberation Front (SLF), who claimed that Nijjar's car was bugged with a tracker and that he was purportedly a target. It also quotes the&nbsp;Sikh community members as telling&nbsp;the investigators that the assailants fired about 50 bullets on Nijjar, of which 34 hit the Khalistani terrorist.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indias-dossier-details-nijjars-history-of-travel-terror-and-thuggery-638830">Explained | India’s dossier details Nijjar’s history of travel, terror and thuggery</a></strong></p>

<p>Hardeep Singh Nijjar entered Canada in the late 1990s on a fake passport and produced false asylum claims based on fake marriages. He became a Canadian citizen in May 2007. In November 2014, an Interpol Red Corner Notice cited over a dozen criminal cases of murder and other terrorist activities against Nijjar in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite details of the cases being shared with the Canadian authorities, no action was taken. Instead, the Canadian government only put Nijjar on a no-fly list.</p>

<h2><strong>How was Hardeep Singh Nijjar killed?&nbsp;Latest report</strong></h2>

<p>Nijjar’s killing was captured by a security camera at Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Canada's Surrey.</p>

<p>A 90-second recording of the video begins with Nijjar’s grey pickup truck pulling out of a parking space, Washington Post reported.</p>

<p>A white sedan appears in an adjacent lot, pulls up and drives parallel to the truck, the report adds.</p>

<p>It further says that when the truck speeds up, the sedan matches its pace. Then the truck merges into the sedan’s lane and for a moment they’re side-by-side. As the vehicles approach the parking lot exit, the sedan pulls in front and brakes to block the truck.</p>

<p>"Two men in hooded sweatshirts emerge from under a covered waiting area and move toward the truck. Each points a firearm at the driver’s seat. The sedan exits the parking lot and drives out of view. Then the two men run in the same direction," the Washington Post report says, following which the paper cites witness accounts of what are deemed to be gunshots.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Explained: Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar and what is his death story?</strong></p>

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<p>A witness told the paper that while he did not recognise the men, they were wearing "a Sikh get-up", with hoodies pulled over small paghs&nbsp;(turbans) on their heads and masks over their "bearded faces."</p>

<p>"They got inside our home and killed our leader," Gurmeet Singh Toor, another separatist figurehead has been quoted as saying by the paper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made an unfounded claim last week and cited "credible allegations" that the agents of the Indian government were involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June.</p>

<p>India has called out Trudeau's claim as 'absurd' and expelled a Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move. New Delhi has also suspended visa services for all Canadian citizens.</p>

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The killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a leader in a widely denounced separatist cause of Khalistan, has now emerged as a "larger and more organised" operation than previously known, according to footage from the site of the killing reported by the Washington Post.

The killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a leader in a widely denounced separatist cause of Khalistan, has now emerged as a "larger and more organised" operation than previously known, according to footage from the site of the killing reported by the Washington Post. The report cites a number of Khalistani separatists, including Moninder Singh, one of the founders of the Sikh Liberation Front (SLF), who claimed that Nijjar's car was bugged with a tracker and that he was purportedly a target. It also quotes the Sikh community members as telling the investigators that the assailants fired about 50 bullets on Nijjar, of which 34 hit the Khalistani terrorist. Also read | Explained | India’s dossier details Nijjar’s history of travel, terror and thuggery Hardeep Singh Nijjar entered Canada in the late 1990s on a fake passport and produced false asylum claims based on fake marriages. He became a Canadian citizen in May 2007. In November 2014, an Interpol Red Corner Notice cited over a dozen criminal cases of murder and other terrorist activities against Nijjar in India. Despite details of the cases being shared with the Canadian authorities, no action was taken. Instead, the Canadian government only put Nijjar on a no-fly list. How was Hardeep Singh Nijjar killed? Latest report Nijjar’s killing was captured by a security camera at Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Canada's Surrey. A 90-second recording of the video begins with Nijjar’s grey pickup truck pulling out of a parking space, Washington Post reported. A white sedan appears in an adjacent lot, pulls up and drives parallel to the truck, the report adds. It further says that when the truck speeds up, the sedan matches its pace. Then the truck merges into the sedan’s lane and for a moment they’re side-by-side. As the vehicles approach the parking lot exit, the sedan pulls in front and brakes to block the truck. "Two men in hooded sweatshirts emerge from under a covered waiting area and move toward the truck. Each points a firearm at the driver’s seat. The sedan exits the parking lot and drives out of view. Then the two men run in the same direction," the Washington Post report says, following which the paper cites witness accounts of what are deemed to be gunshots. Also watch | Explained: Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar and what is his death story? × A witness told the paper that while he did not recognise the men, they were wearing "a Sikh get-up", with hoodies pulled over small paghs (turbans) on their heads and masks over their "bearded faces." "They got inside our home and killed our leader," Gurmeet Singh Toor, another separatist figurehead has been quoted as saying by the paper. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made an unfounded claim last week and cited "credible allegations" that the agents of the Indian government were involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. India has called out Trudeau's claim as 'absurd' and expelled a Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move. New Delhi has also suspended visa services for all Canadian citizens. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was hit with 34 bullets fired by men in 'Sikh getup': Report

<p>New Delhi's longstanding foreign policy&nbsp;principle of strategic autonomy -- the pursuance of self-sufficient and independent strategic goals without an allegiance to a conventional "alliance" -- was vindicated by the state of affairs stoked by a geopolitical slapdash by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trudeau made an explosive statement in the Canadian&nbsp;Parliament in Ottawa that the country's security officials were pursuing "credible allegations" of a "potential link" to India in the killing of&nbsp;Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist, in June.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement&nbsp;led to expulsion of diplomats from the two capitals, with New Delhi upping the ante by enforcing the ceasing of visa services to all Canadian citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later this week, the Canadian state broadcaster reported, and the US later gave official confirmation that the coveted&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-five-eyes-intelligence-alliance-and-how-does-it-support-canadas-claim-in-nijjar-killing-639080">Five Eyes' intelligence alliance</a> — constituted by the intelligence establishments of the&nbsp;&nbsp;United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada — "shared intelligence" Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the killing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has denied Trudeau's oxymoronic "credible allegations" charge, terming them 'absurd and motivated".</p>

<p>But the row has thrown open a geopolitical reality in front of New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For months, the Indian analysts have cited Russia's support to India in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War as reason behind geopolitical vagueness that is perceived as New Delhi implicitly standing by Moscow during its hours of war, however unjustified, with Ukraine.</p>

<p>Many are now coming to terms with the fact that the US puts allies such as Canada, who have fought alongside it, in a separate, more trusted category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The role of the US intelligence in emboldening Trudeau to pick a geopolitical fight with India could have a bearing on the direction of the US-India ties, not least by reinforcing India's imperative for strategic autonomy. The task of building mutual trust now becomes harder," ace Indian strategic thinker Brahma Chellaney <a href="https://twitter.com/Chellaney">wrote</a> on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Less clear is what Ottawa and Washington have sought to achieve against India through allegations arising from the murky world of espionage, where the line between information and disinformation is easily blurred. With neither Ottawa nor Washington willing to present any video, audio or forensic evidence in support, can vague, unsubstantiated allegations about a "potential" India link to a terrorist's killing serve any purpose, other than to make New Delhi rethink its nascent foreign-policy tilt toward the West?", asked Chellaney.</p>

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New Delhi's longstanding foreign policy principle of strategic autonomy -- the pursuance of self-sufficient and independent strategic goals without an allegiance to a conventional "alliance" -- was vindicated by the state of affairs stoked by a geopolitical slapdash by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

New Delhi's longstanding foreign policy principle of strategic autonomy -- the pursuance of self-sufficient and independent strategic goals without an allegiance to a conventional "alliance" -- was vindicated by the state of affairs stoked by a geopolitical slapdash by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trudeau made an explosive statement in the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa that the country's security officials were pursuing "credible allegations" of a "potential link" to India in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, in June. The statement led to expulsion of diplomats from the two capitals, with New Delhi upping the ante by enforcing the ceasing of visa services to all Canadian citizens. Later this week, the Canadian state broadcaster reported, and the US later gave official confirmation that the coveted 'Five Eyes' intelligence alliance — constituted by the intelligence establishments of the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada — "shared intelligence" Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the killing. India has denied Trudeau's oxymoronic "credible allegations" charge, terming them 'absurd and motivated". But the row has thrown open a geopolitical reality in front of New Delhi. For months, the Indian analysts have cited Russia's support to India in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War as reason behind geopolitical vagueness that is perceived as New Delhi implicitly standing by Moscow during its hours of war, however unjustified, with Ukraine. Many are now coming to terms with the fact that the US puts allies such as Canada, who have fought alongside it, in a separate, more trusted category. "The role of the US intelligence in emboldening Trudeau to pick a geopolitical fight with India could have a bearing on the direction of the US-India ties, not least by reinforcing India's imperative for strategic autonomy. The task of building mutual trust now becomes harder," ace Indian strategic thinker Brahma Chellaney wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Less clear is what Ottawa and Washington have sought to achieve against India through allegations arising from the murky world of espionage, where the line between information and disinformation is easily blurred. With neither Ottawa nor Washington willing to present any video, audio or forensic evidence in support, can vague, unsubstantiated allegations about a "potential" India link to a terrorist's killing serve any purpose, other than to make New Delhi rethink its nascent foreign-policy tilt toward the West?", asked Chellaney. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: For New Delhi, a silver-lining in Ottawa's assassination accusation

<p>About 11,000 km away from Kabul, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2023-what-is-stalling-the-progress-of-sustainable-development-goals-explained-637192">United Nations has convened for its 78th General Assembly</a> where the world leaders will also&nbsp;discuss the rights of Afghan women and children. In Kabul, Ghazala (22) misses the time she spent at her university.</p>

<p>It was during that typically dreadful exam season in Afghanistan in December 2022 that the Taliban ordered universities to shut their doors for millions of girls of her age and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Ghazala, who was top of her class, and her classmates were excited for the new beginnings of a new semester that appeared just a few weeks away. Only to witness Taliban extremists turn the clock in opposite direction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They snatched away our smiles. Our abilities are now locked at home," Ghazala told WION in Dari language from Kabul over a phone interview.</p>

<p>Ghazala wondered the rights of Afghan women have become the bargaining chip for Taliban to legitimise their authority on international landscape.</p>

<p>"Our current government is not recognising that we have rights but at least the rest of the world should," said the&nbsp;former Political Science student.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>Unicef, the United Nations children’s agency, says more than one million girls are affected by the ban on education, but local non-profits put the number at several million.</p>

<p>"Please ensure that our right to study is restored," Ghazala said, as her throat went&nbsp;heavy.</p>

<p>Controlling her tears, she gave this message for the world's leaders: "We just want access to our schools and universities. Please restore our right to study, and freedom to dream for a better future."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officially, Taliban has banned girls beyond sixth grade from attending schools.</p>

<p>But Afghanistan's extremist rulers&nbsp;have instructed schools and educational institutes to not permit girls to attend primary school, even if they are above the age of 10.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Taliban think women&nbsp;are good at kitchen or better dead'</strong></h2>

<p>Gulnoor (28), a school administrator at a city in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province, is deeply disappointed with the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Agendas are taken up, discussions take place, but no decisions are made in Afghan women's favour," Gulnoor told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She asks of United Nations: "Since two years, the education is banned in this country. They [Taliban] have banned us from most of the jobs. Talibs think we are either good at kitchen or better dead.&nbsp;Don't they [United Nations] know all of this?"</p>

<p>"Nobody is serious about restoring our rights. I swear we are tired of this," Gulnoor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban, however, have allowed women to pursue nursing courses but the hardliner rulers have banned virtually every vocation that may involve a potential intermingling between men and women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Sona, a medical professional, was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-afghan-women-fear-for-life-as-taliban-ban-male-doctors-from-treating-them-551218">denied a job at a Kabul clinic last year</a>. A few months ago, she was allowed to begin her practice&nbsp;at a Comprehensive Health Center (CHC). When WION spoke to her in December, Dr Sona was distraught.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This time around, she is willing to believe in a hope for change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want nothing but restoration of education rights. Please reopen our schools and universities. We just want freedom to study. This is all we want if they [UN] are listening," Dr Sona said.</p>

<p><em>(The names in the story have been changed to protect identities.)</em></p>

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About 11,000 km away from Kabul, the United Nations has convened for its 78th General Assembly where the world leaders will also discuss the rights of Afghan women and children.

About 11,000 km away from Kabul, the United Nations has convened for its 78th General Assembly where the world leaders will also discuss the rights of Afghan women and children. In Kabul, Ghazala (22) misses the time she spent at her university. It was during that typically dreadful exam season in Afghanistan in December 2022 that the Taliban ordered universities to shut their doors for millions of girls of her age and beyond. But Ghazala, who was top of her class, and her classmates were excited for the new beginnings of a new semester that appeared just a few weeks away. Only to witness Taliban extremists turn the clock in opposite direction. "They snatched away our smiles. Our abilities are now locked at home," Ghazala told WION in Dari language from Kabul over a phone interview. Ghazala wondered the rights of Afghan women have become the bargaining chip for Taliban to legitimise their authority on international landscape. "Our current government is not recognising that we have rights but at least the rest of the world should," said the former Political Science student. Also read | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × Unicef, the United Nations children’s agency, says more than one million girls are affected by the ban on education, but local non-profits put the number at several million. "Please ensure that our right to study is restored," Ghazala said, as her throat went heavy. Controlling her tears, she gave this message for the world's leaders: "We just want access to our schools and universities. Please restore our right to study, and freedom to dream for a better future." Officially, Taliban has banned girls beyond sixth grade from attending schools. But Afghanistan's extremist rulers have instructed schools and educational institutes to not permit girls to attend primary school, even if they are above the age of 10. 'Taliban think women are good at kitchen or better dead' Gulnoor (28), a school administrator at a city in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province, is deeply disappointed with the United Nations. "Agendas are taken up, discussions take place, but no decisions are made in Afghan women's favour," Gulnoor told WION. She asks of United Nations: "Since two years, the education is banned in this country. They [Taliban] have banned us from most of the jobs. Talibs think we are either good at kitchen or better dead. Don't they [United Nations] know all of this?" "Nobody is serious about restoring our rights. I swear we are tired of this," Gulnoor said. The Taliban, however, have allowed women to pursue nursing courses but the hardliner rulers have banned virtually every vocation that may involve a potential intermingling between men and women. Dr Sona, a medical professional, was denied a job at a Kabul clinic last year. A few months ago, she was allowed to begin her practice at a Comprehensive Health Center (CHC). When WION spoke to her in December, Dr Sona was distraught. This time around, she is willing to believe in a hope for change. "We want nothing but restoration of education rights. Please reopen our schools and universities. We just want freedom to study. This is all we want if they [UN] are listening," Dr Sona said. (The names in the story have been changed to protect identities.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: Afghan women ask United Nations to restore right to education under Taliban rule

<p>Astronauts go through an episode of loss of bone density during extended microgravity missions. This is why there have been very few lunar landing missions in the history of space science. A quick loss of bone density is deemed life-threatening, and this has been a major factor that space agencies are supposed to address before humans can be sent to Mars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But now, experiments on a group of daring astronaut mice have provided a significant boost to the mission of sending humans to Mars.</p>

<p>The mice became the first animals to return safely to Earth after a space journey,&nbsp;pointing to&nbsp;a potential solution for preventing bone density loss in astronauts during extended microgravity missions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science/8-strangest-things-in-outer-space--1692381191849">8 strangest things in Outer Space</a></strong></p>

<p>The mice were sent to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of a study whose results were published in the&nbsp;npj Microgravity journal.</p>

<p>Half of these mice were placed aboard a capsule and returned to Earth midway through the study, marking a historic "first ever live animal return of mice in US history."</p>

<p>NASA lauded this study, with an official readout saying that "rodents help NASA take the next step to Mars."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India &amp; US will undertake joint mission to international space station in 2024</strong></p>

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<p>Astronauts aboard the ISS experience weightlessness because both the space station and its occupants are in freefall, creating the sensation of "microgravity."</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>In 2017, 40 mice were sent to the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX vessel.&nbsp;Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the Forsyth Institute in Massachusetts developed a therapy involving a supplement called neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (Nell-1) to address the issue of exposure to microgravity.</p>

<p>On board the International Space Station, astronauts Peggy Whitson and Jack D Fischer administered either the Nell-1 protein or an inactive saline solution to the mice.</p>

<p>Another group of mice in Florida on the ground received the same treatment for comparison.</p>

<p>Half of the mice remained aboard the ISS for nine weeks to simulate extended space travel, while the others returned to Earth after four and a half weeks, reaching a laboratory within 72 hours. This marked the first instance of live mice re-entering Earth's atmosphere and safely returning to the surface in US space travel history.</p>

<p>The results of the study revealed that the treatment "significantly increased bone formation in both flight and ground-control mice without apparent adverse effects." This therapy holds promise as a "promising therapeutic to mitigate extreme bone loss from long-duration microgravity exposure."</p>

<h2><b>Efforts and roadmap for human steps on Mars</b></h2>

<p>NASA has been planning for a potential Mars mission in the late 2030s or 2040s, which could last nearly two years. To achieve this, concerns about significant bone density loss in astronauts must be rectified.&nbsp;</p>

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Astronauts go through an episode of loss of bone density during extended microgravity missions. This is why there have been very few lunar landing missions in the history of space science.

Astronauts go through an episode of loss of bone density during extended microgravity missions. This is why there have been very few lunar landing missions in the history of space science. A quick loss of bone density is deemed life-threatening, and this has been a major factor that space agencies are supposed to address before humans can be sent to Mars. But now, experiments on a group of daring astronaut mice have provided a significant boost to the mission of sending humans to Mars. The mice became the first animals to return safely to Earth after a space journey, pointing to a potential solution for preventing bone density loss in astronauts during extended microgravity missions. Also read | 8 strangest things in Outer Space The mice were sent to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of a study whose results were published in the npj Microgravity journal. Half of these mice were placed aboard a capsule and returned to Earth midway through the study, marking a historic "first ever live animal return of mice in US history." NASA lauded this study, with an official readout saying that "rodents help NASA take the next step to Mars." Also read | India & US will undertake joint mission to international space station in 2024 × Astronauts aboard the ISS experience weightlessness because both the space station and its occupants are in freefall, creating the sensation of "microgravity." How was the study conducted? In 2017, 40 mice were sent to the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX vessel. Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the Forsyth Institute in Massachusetts developed a therapy involving a supplement called neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (Nell-1) to address the issue of exposure to microgravity. On board the International Space Station, astronauts Peggy Whitson and Jack D Fischer administered either the Nell-1 protein or an inactive saline solution to the mice. Another group of mice in Florida on the ground received the same treatment for comparison. Half of the mice remained aboard the ISS for nine weeks to simulate extended space travel, while the others returned to Earth after four and a half weeks, reaching a laboratory within 72 hours. This marked the first instance of live mice re-entering Earth's atmosphere and safely returning to the surface in US space travel history. The results of the study revealed that the treatment "significantly increased bone formation in both flight and ground-control mice without apparent adverse effects." This therapy holds promise as a "promising therapeutic to mitigate extreme bone loss from long-duration microgravity exposure." Efforts and roadmap for human steps on Mars NASA has been planning for a potential Mars mission in the late 2030s or 2040s, which could last nearly two years. To achieve this, concerns about significant bone density loss in astronauts must be rectified. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Experiments on astronaut mice prove humanity has a chance to land on Mars

<p>Elon Musk has floated the idea of turning X, formerly Twitter, into a subscription-based platform during a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.</p>

<p>"[We’re] moving to a small monthly payment for use of the X system," Musk told Netanyahu.</p>

<p>He mentioned the possibility of implementing a small monthly fee to use the X system as a way to combat bots.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-choosing-india-over-china-big-meet-in-delhi-to-decide-teslas-road-to-india-593390">Elon Musk choosing India over China? Big meet to decide Tesla's road to New Delhi</a></strong></p>

<p>Musk did not specify when this change might occur or its exact cost. He noted that X currently has 550 million monthly active users who generate 100-200 million daily posts.</p>

<p>In prior discussions, Musk has considered placing Twitter behind a paywall, citing a 50 per cent&nbsp;drop in advertising revenue since acquiring the company.</p>

<p>"We are still negative cash flow, due to ~50 per cent drop in advertising revenue plus heavy debt load," Musk posted on X in July.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk sells nearly $7bn in Tesla shares</strong></p>

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<p>At present, X's subscription programme, rebranded as X Blue, starts at $8 per month and offers various benefits, including verified status and extended post-editing.</p>

<p>In October 2022, Musk took control of Twitter, terminated its senior management, and oversaw significant layoffs.</p>

<p>While Linda Yaccarino was appointed CEO, Musk continues to lead X.</p>

<h2><strong>Elon Musk's meeting with Erdogan</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, in other developments that reinvigorated Musk's relevance in the global news cycle, Musk met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Manhattan&nbsp;to explore the possibility of establishing Tesla's seventh factory in Turkey.</p>

<p>Musk attended the meeting with his son, Lil X, sparking heartwarming moments captured in photos and videos.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Elon Musk took his son little X to meet Turkiye's President Erdogan. <a href="https://t.co/Cq0S59hLGA">pic.twitter.com/Cq0S59hLGA</a></p>
— Upsilon (@Upsilon_2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/Upsilon_2020/status/1703782270312591517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In their candid conversation, Erdogan inquired about Musk's wife, to which Musk revealed they were separated, explaining that he was now caring for his son.</p>

<p>Turkish Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir, who attended the meeting, said Musk described Turkey as "among the most important candidates for Tesla investment."</p>

<p>He added that Musk and Erdogan also discussed Turkey’s armed aerial drone programme.</p>

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Elon Musk has floated the idea of turning X, formerly Twitter, into a subscription-based platform during a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Elon Musk has floated the idea of turning X, formerly Twitter, into a subscription-based platform during a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "[We’re] moving to a small monthly payment for use of the X system," Musk told Netanyahu. He mentioned the possibility of implementing a small monthly fee to use the X system as a way to combat bots. Also read | Elon Musk choosing India over China? Big meet to decide Tesla's road to New Delhi Musk did not specify when this change might occur or its exact cost. He noted that X currently has 550 million monthly active users who generate 100-200 million daily posts. In prior discussions, Musk has considered placing Twitter behind a paywall, citing a 50 per cent drop in advertising revenue since acquiring the company. "We are still negative cash flow, due to ~50 per cent drop in advertising revenue plus heavy debt load," Musk posted on X in July. Also watch | Elon Musk sells nearly $7bn in Tesla shares × At present, X's subscription programme, rebranded as X Blue, starts at $8 per month and offers various benefits, including verified status and extended post-editing. In October 2022, Musk took control of Twitter, terminated its senior management, and oversaw significant layoffs. While Linda Yaccarino was appointed CEO, Musk continues to lead X. Elon Musk's meeting with Erdogan Meanwhile, in other developments that reinvigorated Musk's relevance in the global news cycle, Musk met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Manhattan to explore the possibility of establishing Tesla's seventh factory in Turkey. Musk attended the meeting with his son, Lil X, sparking heartwarming moments captured in photos and videos. Elon Musk took his son little X to meet Turkiye's President Erdogan. pic.twitter.com/Cq0S59hLGA — Upsilon (@Upsilon_2020) September 18, 2023 × In their candid conversation, Erdogan inquired about Musk's wife, to which Musk revealed they were separated, explaining that he was now caring for his son. Turkish Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir, who attended the meeting, said Musk described Turkey as "among the most important candidates for Tesla investment." He added that Musk and Erdogan also discussed Turkey’s armed aerial drone programme. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will every X user have to pay for rebranded Twitter? Elon Musk drops big hint

<p>Hours after an Indian diplomat&nbsp;in Canada was told to leave the country over Ottawa's inconclusive accusations linking Indian government with the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, New Delhi ordered a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within the next five days.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Canadian diplomat olivier sylvestre expelled by India. <a href="https://t.co/rUEggA2rJx">https://t.co/rUEggA2rJx</a></p>
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<p>"The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned today and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said.</p>

<p>"The decision reflects Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities."</p>

<p>Cameron MacKay, the Canadian High Commissioner to India, was seen ducking reporters at Raisina Hill's South Block in New Delhi on Monday morning where he was present to acknowledge the Indian foreign ministry's&nbsp;summons.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Canadian High Commissioner to India, Cameron MacKay leaves from the MEA headquarters at South Block, New Delhi.<br />
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📷 ANI <a href="https://t.co/au6T8O66qM">pic.twitter.com/au6T8O66qM</a></p>
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<p>In a remarkable reflection of a unique trend of worsening India-Canada ties, the Canadian envoy in New Delhi has been summoned more times than Pakistani diplomats this year, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal reported.</p>

<p>In the recent past, the Canadian High Commissioner was summoned in December 2020, July 2023 and March 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The expulsion of the&nbsp;Canadian diplomat from New Delhi was ordered&nbsp;a day after Canada did the same to a top Indian&nbsp;diplomat over&nbsp;accusations that 'agents of Indian government' may have had links to the killing of Nijjar.</p>

<p>The terrorist was gunned down on June 18 outside a Sikh cultural centre in Surrey, British Columbia.</p>

<p>Nijjar was organising an unofficial referendum in India for an independent Sikh nation at the time of his death.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does tit-for-tat diplomat expulsions&nbsp;mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Bilaterally, before Justin Trudeau came to power in Ottawa, Canada and India considered each other friends, not foes.</p>

<p>But Trudeau, with his political alliance with Sikh radicals in Canada, has brought bilateral ties with India under increasing strain.</p>

<p>After being snubbed&nbsp;during his recent New Delhi visit at the G20 summit, the tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats will likely bring Canada-India relations to a new unique&nbsp;low.</p>

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Hours after an Indian diplomat in Canada was told to leave the country over Ottawa's inconclusive accusations linking Indian government with the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, New Delhi ordered a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within the next five days.

Hours after an Indian diplomat in Canada was told to leave the country over Ottawa's inconclusive accusations linking Indian government with the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, New Delhi ordered a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within the next five days. Canadian diplomat olivier sylvestre expelled by India. https://t.co/rUEggA2rJx — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) September 19, 2023 × "The High Commissioner of Canada to India was summoned today and informed about the decision of the Government of India to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The concerned diplomat has been asked to leave India within the next five days," an official readout said. "The decision reflects Government of India’s growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities." Cameron MacKay, the Canadian High Commissioner to India, was seen ducking reporters at Raisina Hill's South Block in New Delhi on Monday morning where he was present to acknowledge the Indian foreign ministry's summons. #WATCH | Canadian High Commissioner to India, Cameron MacKay leaves from the MEA headquarters at South Block, New Delhi. 📷 ANI pic.twitter.com/au6T8O66qM — WION (@WIONews) September 19, 2023 × In a remarkable reflection of a unique trend of worsening India-Canada ties, the Canadian envoy in New Delhi has been summoned more times than Pakistani diplomats this year, WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal reported. In the recent past, the Canadian High Commissioner was summoned in December 2020, July 2023 and March 2023. The expulsion of the Canadian diplomat from New Delhi was ordered a day after Canada did the same to a top Indian diplomat over accusations that 'agents of Indian government' may have had links to the killing of Nijjar. The terrorist was gunned down on June 18 outside a Sikh cultural centre in Surrey, British Columbia. Nijjar was organising an unofficial referendum in India for an independent Sikh nation at the time of his death. What does tit-for-tat diplomat expulsions mean? Bilaterally, before Justin Trudeau came to power in Ottawa, Canada and India considered each other friends, not foes. But Trudeau, with his political alliance with Sikh radicals in Canada, has brought bilateral ties with India under increasing strain. After being snubbed during his recent New Delhi visit at the G20 summit, the tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats will likely bring Canada-India relations to a new unique low. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar killing row: New Delhi expels top Canadian diplomat over 'anti-India activities'

<p>India's foreign ministry on the morning of September 19 slammed the Canadian government's purported accusations linking a top Indian diplomat&nbsp;in Canada with Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, marking a unique low in India-Canada ties who have historically shared friendly ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trudeau's government subsequently ordered a top Indian diplomat in Ottawa to leave the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-hardeep-singh-nijjar-khalistan-terrorist-at-the-heart-of-india-canada-tensions-637346">Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar? Khalistan terrorist at the heart of India-Canada tensions</a></strong></p>

<p>A similar reciprocation for a&nbsp;Canadian diplomat in New Delhi followed after India's foreign ministry termed the Canadian accusations as "absurd and motivated".</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-delhi-expels-canadian-envoy-over-anti-india-activities-637399">New Delhi expels top Canadian diplomat over 'anti-India activities'</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have seen and reject the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister. Allegations of Government of India's involvement in any act of violence in Canada are absurd and motivated," India's foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>"Similar allegations were made by the Canadian Prime Minister to our Prime Minister, and were completely rejected," the Indian foreign ministry added. Canadian PM Trudeau told his country's parliament that he had taken up the purported matter of alleged Indian hand in Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing "directly" with his Indian counterpart during the G20 summit in Delhi earlier this month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-expels-top-indian-diplomat-over-killing-of-khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjar-637332">Canada expels top Indian diplomat over killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar</a></strong></p>

<p>Trudeau was seen as the most snubbed leader during the G20 summit in Delhi, away from media's attention and geo-economic significance,&nbsp;as he chose to skip official dinners and made it a point to attend the formal business of the summit only. As Trudeau was to leave Delhi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-almost-24-hours-canadas-trudeau-still-remains-stranded-in-india-634948">his official plane developed a technical malfunction</a>&nbsp;and he had to stay back in India for nearly two days, and denied the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-offered-air-india-one-to-stranded-canadian-pm-trudeau-635397">Indian offer to take the service of an Indian Air India&nbsp;One</a> plane instead.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Khalistani terrorists are sheltered by Canada: India's foreign ministry</strong></h2>

<p>India's foreign ministry said that the country is&nbsp;a democratic polity with a strong commitment to the rule of law.</p>

<p>"Such unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A number of individuals designated as terrorists by India's National Investigative Agency continue to call for India's break-up in Canada. Since 2020, self-proclaimed "referendums" that call for the break-up of the Indian state of Punjab from the Union of India have been occurring despite India&nbsp;asserting strong diplomatic offences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The inaction of the Canadian Government on this matter has been a long-standing and continuing concern," India's foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>Harjit Sajjan, a minister in Justin Trudeau's government, has expressed implicit support for the denounced cause of a Sikh homeland in the form of separate Khalistan. His parents are reportedly associated with&nbsp;the World Sikh Organisation, a Sikh advocacy group which supports the Khalistani movement.</p>

<p>"That Canadian political figures have openly expressed sympathy for such elements remains a matter of deep concern," India's foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>"The space given in Canada to a range of illegal activities, including murders, human trafficking and organised crime is not new. We reject any attempts to connect the Government of India to such developments. We urge the Government of Canada to take prompt and effective legal action against all anti-India elements operating from their soil."</p>

<p>In the past, while reacting to the visuals of a parade that showed former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination by her Sikh bodyguards, India's foreign minister Dr S&nbsp;Jaishankar had pointed to the purported compulsions of "vote bank politics" in Canada.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Vote bank politics", EAM Jaishankar hits outs at Canada over Khalistani extremist celebrating assassination of former Indian PM Indira Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/PNMXhgD2GE">https://t.co/PNMXhgD2GE</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZFsY7e9Lxe">pic.twitter.com/ZFsY7e9Lxe</a></p>
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<p>"<em>Ulta Chor Kotwal ko Dantey</em>" (Pot calling the kettle black), External Affairs Minister&nbsp;Jaishankar had said in June over comments by a Canadian National Security Advisor&nbsp;that India interferes in Canada's domestic affairs.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada-India ties at new low: Washington's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>The Biden administration also reacted to the latest unique lows in the India-Canada ties.</p>

<p>"We are deeply concerned about the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau earlier today," White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement, adding, "We remain in regular contact with our Canadian partners. It is critical that Canada’s investigation proceed and the perpetrators be brought to justice."</p>

<p>Washington&nbsp;faced&nbsp;a "no-win situation" with the latest unique low in India-Canada ties. By siding&nbsp;with Ottawa, it contradicted concerns raised by&nbsp;New Delhi over Canada's support of Khalistan terrorists.</p>

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India's foreign ministry on the morning of September 19 slammed the Canadian government's purported accusations linking a top Indian diplomat in Canada with Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, marking a unique low in India-Canada ties who have historically shared friendly ties.

India's foreign ministry on the morning of September 19 slammed the Canadian government's purported accusations linking a top Indian diplomat in Canada with Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, marking a unique low in India-Canada ties who have historically shared friendly ties. Trudeau's government subsequently ordered a top Indian diplomat in Ottawa to leave the country. Also read | Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar? Khalistan terrorist at the heart of India-Canada tensions A similar reciprocation for a Canadian diplomat in New Delhi followed after India's foreign ministry termed the Canadian accusations as "absurd and motivated". Also read | New Delhi expels top Canadian diplomat over 'anti-India activities' "We have seen and reject the statement of the Canadian Prime Minister in their Parliament, as also the statement by their Foreign Minister. Allegations of Government of India's involvement in any act of violence in Canada are absurd and motivated," India's foreign ministry said. "Similar allegations were made by the Canadian Prime Minister to our Prime Minister, and were completely rejected," the Indian foreign ministry added. Canadian PM Trudeau told his country's parliament that he had taken up the purported matter of alleged Indian hand in Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing "directly" with his Indian counterpart during the G20 summit in Delhi earlier this month. Also read | Canada expels top Indian diplomat over killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar Trudeau was seen as the most snubbed leader during the G20 summit in Delhi, away from media's attention and geo-economic significance, as he chose to skip official dinners and made it a point to attend the formal business of the summit only. As Trudeau was to leave Delhi, his official plane developed a technical malfunction and he had to stay back in India for nearly two days, and denied the Indian offer to take the service of an Indian Air India One plane instead. Khalistani terrorists are sheltered by Canada: India's foreign ministry India's foreign ministry said that the country is a democratic polity with a strong commitment to the rule of law. "Such unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," it added. A number of individuals designated as terrorists by India's National Investigative Agency continue to call for India's break-up in Canada. Since 2020, self-proclaimed "referendums" that call for the break-up of the Indian state of Punjab from the Union of India have been occurring despite India asserting strong diplomatic offences. "The inaction of the Canadian Government on this matter has been a long-standing and continuing concern," India's foreign ministry said. Harjit Sajjan, a minister in Justin Trudeau's government, has expressed implicit support for the denounced cause of a Sikh homeland in the form of separate Khalistan. His parents are reportedly associated with the World Sikh Organisation, a Sikh advocacy group which supports the Khalistani movement. "That Canadian political figures have openly expressed sympathy for such elements remains a matter of deep concern," India's foreign ministry said. "The space given in Canada to a range of illegal activities, including murders, human trafficking and organised crime is not new. We reject any attempts to connect the Government of India to such developments. We urge the Government of Canada to take prompt and effective legal action against all anti-India elements operating from their soil." In the past, while reacting to the visuals of a parade that showed former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination by her Sikh bodyguards, India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar had pointed to the purported compulsions of "vote bank politics" in Canada. "Vote bank politics", EAM Jaishankar hits outs at Canada over Khalistani extremist celebrating assassination of former Indian PM Indira Gandhi https://t.co/PNMXhgD2GE pic.twitter.com/ZFsY7e9Lxe — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 8, 2023 × "Ulta Chor Kotwal ko Dantey" (Pot calling the kettle black), External Affairs Minister Jaishankar had said in June over comments by a Canadian National Security Advisor that India interferes in Canada's domestic affairs. Canada-India ties at new low: Washington's reaction The Biden administration also reacted to the latest unique lows in the India-Canada ties. "We are deeply concerned about the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau earlier today," White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement, adding, "We remain in regular contact with our Canadian partners. It is critical that Canada’s investigation proceed and the perpetrators be brought to justice." Washington faced a "no-win situation" with the latest unique low in India-Canada ties. By siding with Ottawa, it contradicted concerns raised by New Delhi over Canada's support of Khalistan terrorists. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing

<p>For the first time in nearly 50 years, the Spanish government is contemplating a far-reaching amnesty which if greenlit,&nbsp;may pave the way for a new left-leaning administration under Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.</p>

<h2><strong>Spain potential political amnesty row: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Detractors caution that it could stoke political instability with implications for secessionist movement in Catalonia region.</p>

<p>The proposed amnesty is a key requirement put forth by the pro-independence Junts party in exchange for its support of the acting Prime Minister, Socialist Pedro Sanchez, in a parliamentary investiture vote.</p>

<p>Junts, primarily represented by the self-exiled former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont, is advocating for a legislative action that would nullify pending legal proceedings and sanctions against pro-independence leaders connected to the failed 2017 secession attempt.</p>

<h2><b>Implications for&nbsp;</b><strong>Pedro Sanchez's premiership</strong></h2>

<p>Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the opposition Popular Party (PP) and the top performer in the July election in terms of votes, faces a seemingly futile investiture vote in late September, lacking the parliamentary support to form a government.</p>

<p>Following that, Sanchez&nbsp;will have an opportunity to establish a coalition. However, without Junts' backing, Sanchez's anticipated investiture in November is likely to fail, triggering a repeat of the general election.</p>

<h2><strong>History of political amnesties in Spain</strong></h2>

<p>The last significant amnesty in Spain occurred in 1977 during the transition from dictatorship to democracy, shielding both regime supporters and opponents from prosecution.</p>

<p>The specifics of a potential new amnesty remain unclear, although the Catalan organisation Òmnium Cultural contends it should encompass over 1,400 nationalists who have faced convictions, sanctions, or ongoing legal actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-elections-spaniards-vote-in-snap-polls-after-campaign-centered-on-womens-rights-618598">Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women's rights</a></strong></p>

<p>Nevertheless, there exists no exact&nbsp;consensus on the constitutional limits related to an amnesty, as the 1978 constitution does not explicitly address the issue.</p>

<p>The call for an amnesty is already encountering intense political opposition, with Sanchez's opponents highlighting his previous rejection of such a move and stating his current consideration is solely for political survival.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women`s rights</strong></p>

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<p>PP's Feijóo party has launched a campaign encouraging local governments across Spain to pass resolutions denouncing the proposal, asserting that it "violates our constitutional values."</p>

<p>The PP is also set to launch an anti-amnesty demonstration in Madrid later this month.</p>

<p>Sanchez has faced similar allegations in the past, such as when his government pardoned nine imprisoned independence leaders in 2021 or when it modified the criminal code to benefit Catalan politicians still facing charges of sedition and misuse of public funds.</p>

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For the first time in nearly 50 years, the Spanish government is contemplating a far-reaching amnesty which if greenlit, may pave the way for a new left-leaning administration under Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

For the first time in nearly 50 years, the Spanish government is contemplating a far-reaching amnesty which if greenlit, may pave the way for a new left-leaning administration under Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Spain potential political amnesty row: What does it mean? Detractors caution that it could stoke political instability with implications for secessionist movement in Catalonia region. The proposed amnesty is a key requirement put forth by the pro-independence Junts party in exchange for its support of the acting Prime Minister, Socialist Pedro Sanchez, in a parliamentary investiture vote. Junts, primarily represented by the self-exiled former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont, is advocating for a legislative action that would nullify pending legal proceedings and sanctions against pro-independence leaders connected to the failed 2017 secession attempt. Implications for Pedro Sanchez's premiership Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the opposition Popular Party (PP) and the top performer in the July election in terms of votes, faces a seemingly futile investiture vote in late September, lacking the parliamentary support to form a government. Following that, Sanchez will have an opportunity to establish a coalition. However, without Junts' backing, Sanchez's anticipated investiture in November is likely to fail, triggering a repeat of the general election. History of political amnesties in Spain The last significant amnesty in Spain occurred in 1977 during the transition from dictatorship to democracy, shielding both regime supporters and opponents from prosecution. The specifics of a potential new amnesty remain unclear, although the Catalan organisation Òmnium Cultural contends it should encompass over 1,400 nationalists who have faced convictions, sanctions, or ongoing legal actions. Also read | Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women's rights Nevertheless, there exists no exact consensus on the constitutional limits related to an amnesty, as the 1978 constitution does not explicitly address the issue. The call for an amnesty is already encountering intense political opposition, with Sanchez's opponents highlighting his previous rejection of such a move and stating his current consideration is solely for political survival. Also watch | Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women`s rights × PP's Feijóo party has launched a campaign encouraging local governments across Spain to pass resolutions denouncing the proposal, asserting that it "violates our constitutional values." The PP is also set to launch an anti-amnesty demonstration in Madrid later this month. Sanchez has faced similar allegations in the past, such as when his government pardoned nine imprisoned independence leaders in 2021 or when it modified the criminal code to benefit Catalan politicians still facing charges of sedition and misuse of public funds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's PM Sanchez warned against giving political amnesty to separatism backers

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