<p>Four people are reported dead while many others are injured on Thursday (July 18) after several coaches of an express train derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda, about 650 km east of New Delhi. The derailment of Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express reportedly took place in Pikaura, a town between Gonda and Jhilahi in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search and rescue operation was going on at the time of filing this report. Another rescue team was en route for the operations. Several people are injured and visuals on social media show passengers standing on the sides of the track with their luggage. The Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express was heading to Dibrugarh, Assam, from Chandigarh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Out of the 12 coaches, four coaches of the AC compartment derailed a few kilometres before the Jhilahi railway station.&nbsp;According to railways officials cited by <em>The Indian Express</em>, the derailment took place at around 2.35 pm (IST) in Gonda district.</p>

<p>The reason behind the accident is yet to be known.</p>

<p>Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been briefed&nbsp;about the accident and authorities are monitoring the situation.</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanatah has ordered officials to reach the accident site immediately and has directed authorities to expedite the relief operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The railway medical team&nbsp;has reached the site and the North Eastern Railways has issued helpline numbers:</p>

<p>- Commercial Control: 9957555984<br />
- Furkating (FKG): 9957555966<br />
- Mariani (MXN): 6001882410<br />
- Simalguri (SLGR): 8789543798<br />
- Tinsukia (NTSK): 9957555959<br />
- Dibrugarh (DBRG): 9957555960</p>

<p>One disaster management team&nbsp;each has been sent from Lucknow and Balrampur to the accident site in Gonda, according to&nbsp;UP Relief Commissioner GS Naveen Kumar. Five ambulances have also been deployed for rescue operations.</p>

<p>Rescue personnel are shifting the injured to hospital, the official said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"First aid is being given to the injured. The injured are being shifted to the hospital. SDRF teams sent from three districts to expedite relief operations,"&nbsp;Kumar was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.</p>

<p><em>This is a developing story. More information will be added soon.&nbsp;</em></p>


Four people are reported dead while many others are injured on Thursday (July 18) after several coaches of an express train derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda, about 650 km east of New Delhi.

Four people are reported dead while many others are injured on Thursday (July 18) after several coaches of an express train derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda, about 650 km east of New Delhi. The derailment of Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express reportedly took place in Pikaura, a town between Gonda and Jhilahi in Uttar Pradesh. The search and rescue operation was going on at the time of filing this report. Another rescue team was en route for the operations. Several people are injured and visuals on social media show passengers standing on the sides of the track with their luggage. The Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express was heading to Dibrugarh, Assam, from Chandigarh. Out of the 12 coaches, four coaches of the AC compartment derailed a few kilometres before the Jhilahi railway station. According to railways officials cited by The Indian Express, the derailment took place at around 2.35 pm (IST) in Gonda district. The reason behind the accident is yet to be known. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been briefed about the accident and authorities are monitoring the situation. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanatah has ordered officials to reach the accident site immediately and has directed authorities to expedite the relief operations. The railway medical team has reached the site and the North Eastern Railways has issued helpline numbers: - Commercial Control: 9957555984 - Furkating (FKG): 9957555966 - Mariani (MXN): 6001882410 - Simalguri (SLGR): 8789543798 - Tinsukia (NTSK): 9957555959 - Dibrugarh (DBRG): 9957555960 One disaster management team each has been sent from Lucknow and Balrampur to the accident site in Gonda, according to UP Relief Commissioner GS Naveen Kumar. Five ambulances have also been deployed for rescue operations. Rescue personnel are shifting the injured to hospital, the official said. "First aid is being given to the injured. The injured are being shifted to the hospital. SDRF teams sent from three districts to expedite relief operations," Kumar was quoted as saying by The Indian Express. This is a developing story. More information will be added soon.

Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express train derails in Gonda; four killed, several injured

<p>Top Democrat leader Adam Schiff on Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;17) publicly urged United States President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race&nbsp;for another candidate. House&nbsp;Representative Schiff became the most heavyweight Democrat so far to ask Biden to make way for somebody else to face&nbsp;Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for November presidential elections.</p>

<p>Schiff called on Joe Biden&nbsp;to "pass the torch".</p>

<p>The top Democrat and&nbsp;a key congressional powerbroker praised the incumbent president. But Schiff&nbsp;told the Los Angeles Times that he doubts that the 81-year-old incumbent can defeat Trump, whom he described as a threat to "the very foundation of our democracy."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Seven democrats ask Biden to step aside</strong></p>

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<p>The Californian, who is expected to win a Senate seat this November, is one of the most influential members of the Democratic Party.</p>

<p>Schiff served as chairman of the House intelligence panel when Democrats had the majority in 2019. He shot to nationwide prominence as lead prosecutor during then-president Trump's first impeachment trial.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-should-be-removed-impeachment-trial-276268">Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement to the Los Angeles Times, Schiff aired his&nbsp;worries&nbsp;that have taken over the Democrats, which they often expressed&nbsp;in private. There are concerns among the Democrats that&nbsp;Biden's age and health will doom him and the party in the November election.</p>

<p>These concerns were aggravated after the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee's&nbsp;performance&nbsp;in a televised debate with Trump last month when the incumbent US president looked confused and was often unable to articulate his thoughts.</p>

<p>Since then, Biden has repeatedly said he intends to stay in the race. However, polls show a tight overall contest with&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;reportedly pulling ahead in key swing states.</p>

<p>Schiff called Biden "one of the most consequential presidents in our nation's history."</p>

<p>However, "a second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the president can defeat Donald Trump in November."</p>

<p>Biden should "secure his legacy" by stepping aside, Schiff said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Top Democrat leader Adam Schiff on Wednesday (Jul 17) publicly urged United States President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race for another candidate.

Top Democrat leader Adam Schiff on Wednesday (Jul 17) publicly urged United States President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race for another candidate. House Representative Schiff became the most heavyweight Democrat so far to ask Biden to make way for somebody else to face Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for November presidential elections. Schiff called on Joe Biden to "pass the torch". The top Democrat and a key congressional powerbroker praised the incumbent president. But Schiff told the Los Angeles Times that he doubts that the 81-year-old incumbent can defeat Trump, whom he described as a threat to "the very foundation of our democracy." Also watch | US: Seven democrats ask Biden to step aside × The Californian, who is expected to win a Senate seat this November, is one of the most influential members of the Democratic Party. Schiff served as chairman of the House intelligence panel when Democrats had the majority in 2019. He shot to nationwide prominence as lead prosecutor during then-president Trump's first impeachment trial. Also read | Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff In a statement to the Los Angeles Times, Schiff aired his worries that have taken over the Democrats, which they often expressed in private. There are concerns among the Democrats that Biden's age and health will doom him and the party in the November election. These concerns were aggravated after the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee's performance in a televised debate with Trump last month when the incumbent US president looked confused and was often unable to articulate his thoughts. Since then, Biden has repeatedly said he intends to stay in the race. However, polls show a tight overall contest with Trump reportedly pulling ahead in key swing states. Schiff called Biden "one of the most consequential presidents in our nation's history." However, "a second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the president can defeat Donald Trump in November." Biden should "secure his legacy" by stepping aside, Schiff said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Pass the torch': Biden faces strongest call so far to drop out of White House race

<p>Iran remains open to resuming negotiations with the United States to restore the&nbsp;nuclear agreement from which Washington under then President Donald Trump backed out in 2018, Iran's acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri-Kani told Newsweek in an interview published on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;16).</p>

<p>Bagheri-Kani's comments come ahead of his address to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York.</p>

<p>The United States, under Trump, withdrew from the nuclear accord between Iran and six world powers in 2018, which had restricted Tehran's nuclear program.</p>

<p>Despite indirect talks during the incumbent President Joe&nbsp;Biden's administration to revive the deal, negotiations have stalled. Iran remains part of the agreement but has reduced its commitments in response to US sanctions.</p>

<p>Newsweek quoted Bagheri-Kani as saying, "On the foreign policy front, Tehran remains open to resuming negotiations with Washington toward restoring mutual participation in a nuclear deal."</p>

<p>However, Bagheri-Kani also added that Iran will continue its focus on strengthening ties with China, Russia, and neighbouring countries. He further stated that Iran would call for greater action against Israel in the wake of the war in Gaza.</p>

<p>The Biden administration announced last week that the United States was not ready to resume nuclear talks with Iran under its new president.</p>

<p>Following the election of reformist President&nbsp;Masoud Pezeshkian earlier in July, there was speculation that Tehran might pursue more serious talks with Washington. However, Pezeshkian has so far signalled the continuation of Iran's regional policies of projecting power.</p>

<p>Bagheri-Kani assumed the role of acting foreign minister after the death of Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May. His trip to New York for the UNSC meeting is seen by some as a possible attempt to advance the issue of renewed talks, despite Iran not currently being a member of the council.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Does Iran have nuclear weapons?</strong></p>

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<p>Pezeshkian, elected in a snap election, initially campaigned on promoting a pragmatic foreign policy and easing tensions with the powers involved in the 2015 nuclear pact.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delivers-reformist-verdict-as-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-wins-hearts-in-presidential-elections-738393">Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections</a></strong></p>

<p>But after his election, he reaffirmed Tehran's support for militant proxy forces in the region and continued the insistence on the anti-western agenda of Raisi's days.</p>

<p>When asked about Iran's nuclear capabilities and whether the country might pursue weapons development, Bagheri-Kani reiterated Iran's commitment to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).</p>

<p>"Iran will make use of all its potentials and capacities within the framework of the NPT and the Safeguards Agreement to expand its peaceful nuclear activities according to its national plans and programs," he added.</p>


Iran remains open to resuming negotiations with the United States to restore the nuclear agreement from which Washington under then President Donald Trump backed out in 2018, Iran's acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri-Kani told Newsweek in an interview published on Tuesday (Jul 16).

Iran remains open to resuming negotiations with the United States to restore the nuclear agreement from which Washington under then President Donald Trump backed out in 2018, Iran's acting foreign minister Ali Bagheri-Kani told Newsweek in an interview published on Tuesday (Jul 16). Bagheri-Kani's comments come ahead of his address to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York. The United States, under Trump, withdrew from the nuclear accord between Iran and six world powers in 2018, which had restricted Tehran's nuclear program. Despite indirect talks during the incumbent President Joe Biden's administration to revive the deal, negotiations have stalled. Iran remains part of the agreement but has reduced its commitments in response to US sanctions. Newsweek quoted Bagheri-Kani as saying, "On the foreign policy front, Tehran remains open to resuming negotiations with Washington toward restoring mutual participation in a nuclear deal." However, Bagheri-Kani also added that Iran will continue its focus on strengthening ties with China, Russia, and neighbouring countries. He further stated that Iran would call for greater action against Israel in the wake of the war in Gaza. The Biden administration announced last week that the United States was not ready to resume nuclear talks with Iran under its new president. Following the election of reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier in July, there was speculation that Tehran might pursue more serious talks with Washington. However, Pezeshkian has so far signalled the continuation of Iran's regional policies of projecting power. Bagheri-Kani assumed the role of acting foreign minister after the death of Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May. His trip to New York for the UNSC meeting is seen by some as a possible attempt to advance the issue of renewed talks, despite Iran not currently being a member of the council. Also watch | Does Iran have nuclear weapons? × Pezeshkian, elected in a snap election, initially campaigned on promoting a pragmatic foreign policy and easing tensions with the powers involved in the 2015 nuclear pact. Also read | Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections But after his election, he reaffirmed Tehran's support for militant proxy forces in the region and continued the insistence on the anti-western agenda of Raisi's days. When asked about Iran's nuclear capabilities and whether the country might pursue weapons development, Bagheri-Kani reiterated Iran's commitment to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). "Iran will make use of all its potentials and capacities within the framework of the NPT and the Safeguards Agreement to expand its peaceful nuclear activities according to its national plans and programs," he added.

Iran willing to resume nuclear talks with United States: Acting foreign minister

<p>US President Joe Biden has renewed his call for Congress to ban high-powered firearms, such as the AR-15-style rifle that was used recently by the shooter who tried to assassinate former president Donald Trump. Speaking at a convention in Las Vegas, Biden called for the need for stringent gun control measures.</p>

<p>"An AR-15 was used in the shooting of Donald Trump, just as other assault weapons were used to kill so many others, including children," Biden stated. "It’s time to outlaw them. I did it once and I will do it again."</p>

<p>The Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, commonly known as the assault weapons ban, was originally enacted in 1994 but expired in 2004. Efforts to renew the ban have repeatedly stalled in Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-counting-the-cost-the-rising-numbers-in-us-gun-violence-666610">Counting the Cost: The Rising Numbers in US Gun Violence</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden also called for a reduction in political hostility and a rejection of all forms of violence.</p>

<p>"If we are gonna speak about violence, we are gonna speak about guns. More children in America died of gunshot wounds than any other reason. That is sick," Biden said. "And it’s sheer cowardice if we do nothing about it. So, you wanna stand against violence in America, then join me in getting these weapons of war off the streets of America."</p>

<p>Since taking office, Biden has made over 70 appeals to Congress to renew the assault weapons ban, which would primarily target the AR-15, the most popular gun in America, The Independent reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump Assassination Attempt: Jack Black apologises for insensitive joke</strong></p>

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<p>The suspected shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, reportedly stole&nbsp;the AR-15 from his father. Although&nbsp;the minimum age for buying rifles and shotguns is 18 in Pennsylvania from where Crooks hails.</p>

<p>Polling from Ipsos and The Washington Post indicates that roughly 16 million Americans own at least one AR-15-style rifle. These rifles, originally designed for military use, have been involved in 10 of the 17 deadliest mass shootings since 2012.</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>


US President Joe Biden has renewed his call for Congress to ban high-powered firearms, such as the AR-15-style rifle that was used recently by the shooter who tried to assassinate former president Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden has renewed his call for Congress to ban high-powered firearms, such as the AR-15-style rifle that was used recently by the shooter who tried to assassinate former president Donald Trump. Speaking at a convention in Las Vegas, Biden called for the need for stringent gun control measures. "An AR-15 was used in the shooting of Donald Trump, just as other assault weapons were used to kill so many others, including children," Biden stated. "It’s time to outlaw them. I did it once and I will do it again." The Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, commonly known as the assault weapons ban, was originally enacted in 1994 but expired in 2004. Efforts to renew the ban have repeatedly stalled in Congress. Also read | Counting the Cost: The Rising Numbers in US Gun Violence Biden also called for a reduction in political hostility and a rejection of all forms of violence. "If we are gonna speak about violence, we are gonna speak about guns. More children in America died of gunshot wounds than any other reason. That is sick," Biden said. "And it’s sheer cowardice if we do nothing about it. So, you wanna stand against violence in America, then join me in getting these weapons of war off the streets of America." Since taking office, Biden has made over 70 appeals to Congress to renew the assault weapons ban, which would primarily target the AR-15, the most popular gun in America, The Independent reported. Also watch | Donald Trump Assassination Attempt: Jack Black apologises for insensitive joke × The suspected shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, reportedly stole the AR-15 from his father. Although the minimum age for buying rifles and shotguns is 18 in Pennsylvania from where Crooks hails. Polling from Ipsos and The Washington Post indicates that roughly 16 million Americans own at least one AR-15-style rifle. These rifles, originally designed for military use, have been involved in 10 of the 17 deadliest mass shootings since 2012. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden calls for ban on assault rifles after Trump assassination attempt

<p>Peter Navarro, a former advisor to Donald Trump, was released from a federal prison in Miami, Florida on Wednesday&nbsp;(Jul&nbsp;17) morning&nbsp;after completing a four-month sentence. Navarro was imprisoned for refusing to comply with a subpoena issued by the House January 6 committee.</p>

<p>Navarro was convicted last year on two counts of contempt of Congress after failing to provide testimony and documents to the committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed that Navarro was&nbsp;released on Wednesday, and multiple news outlets reported his departure from the facility earlier that day.</p>

<p>The House committee’s final report identified Navarro as a central figure in Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and delay the certification of the election results on January 6, 2021.</p>

<p>The former advisor is expected to address the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee on Wednesday night, where the party continues to show strong support for Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Former Donald Trump rivals pay tribute on second night of RNC</strong></p>

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<p>The RNC&nbsp;is in the midst of its&nbsp;third day as of Wednesday.</p>

<p>During his tenure in the Trump administration, Navarro held several senior positions, including advisory roles on trade and economic policies. He has been a vocal supporter of the former United States&nbsp;president’s claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election.</p>

<p>In his 2021 memoir, Navarro detailed his involvement in the plan to delay Congress' certification of the election results. He said that he worked alongside former Trump advisor Steve Bannon, who is currently serving a four-month sentence for contempt of the US Congress.</p>

<p>The Grand Old Party's efforts to overturn the 2020 election results remain a key talking point for Democrats ahead of the election in November. Trump is facing criminal charges in Washington and Georgia related to the alleged&nbsp;election scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navarro, Bannon, and Trump have all denied any wrongdoing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Peter Navarro, a former advisor to Donald Trump, was released from a federal prison in Miami, Florida on Wednesday (Jul 17) morning after completing a four-month sentence.

Peter Navarro, a former advisor to Donald Trump, was released from a federal prison in Miami, Florida on Wednesday (Jul 17) morning after completing a four-month sentence. Navarro was imprisoned for refusing to comply with a subpoena issued by the House January 6 committee. Navarro was convicted last year on two counts of contempt of Congress after failing to provide testimony and documents to the committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed that Navarro was released on Wednesday, and multiple news outlets reported his departure from the facility earlier that day. The House committee’s final report identified Navarro as a central figure in Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and delay the certification of the election results on January 6, 2021. The former advisor is expected to address the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee on Wednesday night, where the party continues to show strong support for Trump. Also watch | Former Donald Trump rivals pay tribute on second night of RNC × The RNC is in the midst of its third day as of Wednesday. During his tenure in the Trump administration, Navarro held several senior positions, including advisory roles on trade and economic policies. He has been a vocal supporter of the former United States president’s claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election. In his 2021 memoir, Navarro detailed his involvement in the plan to delay Congress' certification of the election results. He said that he worked alongside former Trump advisor Steve Bannon, who is currently serving a four-month sentence for contempt of the US Congress. The Grand Old Party's efforts to overturn the 2020 election results remain a key talking point for Democrats ahead of the election in November. Trump is facing criminal charges in Washington and Georgia related to the alleged election scheme. Navarro, Bannon, and Trump have all denied any wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies)

From Miami prison to Republican Convention: Former Trump aide Peter Navarro released from jail

<p>The final photo of Donald Trump's would-be-assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old gunman, shows him crawling on the ground and seemingly scoping out a spot to shoot&nbsp;the former United States president from. The photo was taken nearly one hour before the shooting occurred.</p>

<p>The image, captured by a Secret Service agent around 5:30 pm (local time)&nbsp;on Saturday (July 13), was circulated among law enforcement at Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, to report the suspicious activity, according to WXPI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the photo, Crooks is seen with long brown hair, glasses, and wearing a grey t-shirt representing the popular gun YouTube channel, Demolition Ranch.</p>

<p>At 6:11 pm (local time), Crooks fired his first shot from about 130 yards away, injuring the former US president's ear and killing one rally attendee. Two others were seriously injured in the attack.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NEW ... Per NY Post, the shooter was Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park PA. If that is correct, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania voter records shows Matthew Thomas Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park PA as a registered Republican. <a href="https://t.co/O5phizW8Js">pic.twitter.com/O5phizW8Js</a></p>
— Jeffrey Evan Gold (@jeffgoldesq) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffgoldesq/status/1812345865530745183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The recently surfaced photos show&nbsp;Crooks' cell phone and a remote transmitter next to his dead body atop the manufacturing plant where he attempted the assassination. A grey, 12-button remote and a newer model phone were recovered from his body, as reported by WPXI.</p>

<p>Investigators believe the transmitter was linked to an explosive device found inside Crooks' car, suggesting he had planned to create a distraction during the shooting.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;20-year-old gunman had been spotted by law enforcement with a rangefinder, looking at his phone nearly an hour before Trump took the stage. He had first raised suspicions around 3 pm (local time)&nbsp;that day when he passed through the security screening area with the rangefinder.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-trump-assassination-attempt-has-turbocharged-his-presidential-re-run-740763">How Trump assassination attempt has turbocharged his presidential re-run</a></strong></p>

<p>A rangefinder is a device similar to binoculars used by hunters and target shooters to measure distances for long-range shots. Investigators say that Crooks retrieved an AR-style rifle he had stolen from his father from his car before the attack.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Trump assassination attempt: Probe one Trump shooter's security breach</strong></p>

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<p>Seconds before Crooks aimed at Trump, a local police officer interrupted him. Crooks pointed the AR-style rifle at the officer, who then dropped and fell eight feet down, the New York Post reported.</p>

<p>Although the bullet only went through the former US president's right ear, the 20-year-old gunman fatally shot Corey Comperatore, a hero firefighter and father who was at the rally with his wife and daughters.</p>

<p>Authorities are yet to disclose a possible motive for the shooting.</p>


The final photo of Donald Trump's would-be-assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old gunman, shows him crawling on the ground and seemingly scoping out a spot to shoot the former United States president from.

The final photo of Donald Trump's would-be-assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old gunman, shows him crawling on the ground and seemingly scoping out a spot to shoot the former United States president from. The photo was taken nearly one hour before the shooting occurred. The image, captured by a Secret Service agent around 5:30 pm (local time) on Saturday (July 13), was circulated among law enforcement at Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, to report the suspicious activity, according to WXPI. In the photo, Crooks is seen with long brown hair, glasses, and wearing a grey t-shirt representing the popular gun YouTube channel, Demolition Ranch. At 6:11 pm (local time), Crooks fired his first shot from about 130 yards away, injuring the former US president's ear and killing one rally attendee. Two others were seriously injured in the attack. NEW ... Per NY Post, the shooter was Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park PA. If that is correct, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania voter records shows Matthew Thomas Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park PA as a registered Republican. pic.twitter.com/O5phizW8Js — Jeffrey Evan Gold (@jeffgoldesq) July 14, 2024 × The recently surfaced photos show Crooks' cell phone and a remote transmitter next to his dead body atop the manufacturing plant where he attempted the assassination. A grey, 12-button remote and a newer model phone were recovered from his body, as reported by WPXI. Investigators believe the transmitter was linked to an explosive device found inside Crooks' car, suggesting he had planned to create a distraction during the shooting. The 20-year-old gunman had been spotted by law enforcement with a rangefinder, looking at his phone nearly an hour before Trump took the stage. He had first raised suspicions around 3 pm (local time) that day when he passed through the security screening area with the rangefinder. Also read | How Trump assassination attempt has turbocharged his presidential re-run A rangefinder is a device similar to binoculars used by hunters and target shooters to measure distances for long-range shots. Investigators say that Crooks retrieved an AR-style rifle he had stolen from his father from his car before the attack. Also watch | Trump assassination attempt: Probe one Trump shooter's security breach × Seconds before Crooks aimed at Trump, a local police officer interrupted him. Crooks pointed the AR-style rifle at the officer, who then dropped and fell eight feet down, the New York Post reported. Although the bullet only went through the former US president's right ear, the 20-year-old gunman fatally shot Corey Comperatore, a hero firefighter and father who was at the rally with his wife and daughters. Authorities are yet to disclose a possible motive for the shooting.

US Secret Service clicked final image of would-be Trump assassin Matthew Crooks

<p>UK's new Labour government's governance agenda was laid out in British parliament on Wednesday (July 17) by the British monarch King Charles III. In an archaic tradition showcasing the symbols of Britain's colonial plundering, the monarch outlined the draft laws. The speech coincided with anti-monarchy protests as demonstrators booed at&nbsp;Charles and his wife Camilla's carriage during the procession ahead of the state opening of the UK parliament.</p>

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<p>Here are the key points from Prime Minister Keir Starmer's governance agenda laid out by the British monarch.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Liz Truss bill'</strong></h2>

<p>The Budget responsibility bill, otherwise dubbed as the 'Liz Truss Bill' after the short-serving British premier's mini-budget, will be independently assessed by the Office for Budget Responsibility.</p>

<h2><strong>National Wealth Fund Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The proposed law lays out a £7.3 billion capitalised fund to spread investment and boost the largely stagnant British economy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Great British Energy Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The big-ticket bill sets up Prime Minister Keir Starmer's long-promised publicly owned clean energy production company.</p>

<h2><strong>Sustainable Aviation Fuel (revenue support mechanism) Bill</strong></h2>

<p>This is a proposed legislative attempt to increase investment in UK by making lower-emission aviation fuels.</p>

<h2><strong>Tobacco And Vapes Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The initial work on this bill is the legacy of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government. The bill would gradually ban smoking and stop vapes being marketed to children.</p>

<h2><strong>Mental Health Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The broad bill aims to modernise mental health provisions, including in areas such as how people can be detained and treated under the Mental Health Act.</p>

<h2><strong>Planning And Infrastructure Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The bill aims to streamline and speed up planning and associated infrastructure needs to get more housing built. It includes a more top-down approach, with penalties for councils that fail to act.</p>

<h2><strong>Renters' Rights Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The bill introduces an end to "no fault" evictions. The bill was long promised by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government.</p>

<h2><strong>Employment Rights Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The long-promised bill&nbsp;will be introduced in parliament in the first 100 days of the government. It would ban zero-hours contracts and fire and rehire practices.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: First time for King Charles III to announce new party in power</strong></p>

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<p>It will also add extra rights such as flexible working, and make parental leave, sick pay and protection from unfair dismissal immediate rights.</p>

<h2><strong>Border Security, Asylum And Immigration Bill</strong></h2>

<p>This sets up the new Border Security Command, with the aim to limit the number of unofficial Channel crossings by asylum seekers.</p>

<h2><strong>English Devolution Bill</strong></h2>

<p>The proposed law is intended to extend devolution across England, giving mayors and local authorities the opportunity to take on extra powers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK's new Labour government's governance agenda was laid out in British parliament on Wednesday (July 17) by the British monarch King Charles III. In an archaic tradition showcasing the symbols of Britain's colonial plundering, the monarch outlined the draft laws.

UK's new Labour government's governance agenda was laid out in British parliament on Wednesday (July 17) by the British monarch King Charles III. In an archaic tradition showcasing the symbols of Britain's colonial plundering, the monarch outlined the draft laws. The speech coincided with anti-monarchy protests as demonstrators booed at Charles and his wife Camilla's carriage during the procession ahead of the state opening of the UK parliament. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × Here are the key points from Prime Minister Keir Starmer's governance agenda laid out by the British monarch. 'Liz Truss bill' The Budget responsibility bill, otherwise dubbed as the 'Liz Truss Bill' after the short-serving British premier's mini-budget, will be independently assessed by the Office for Budget Responsibility. National Wealth Fund Bill The proposed law lays out a £7.3 billion capitalised fund to spread investment and boost the largely stagnant British economy. Great British Energy Bill The big-ticket bill sets up Prime Minister Keir Starmer's long-promised publicly owned clean energy production company. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (revenue support mechanism) Bill This is a proposed legislative attempt to increase investment in UK by making lower-emission aviation fuels. Tobacco And Vapes Bill The initial work on this bill is the legacy of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government. The bill would gradually ban smoking and stop vapes being marketed to children. Mental Health Bill The broad bill aims to modernise mental health provisions, including in areas such as how people can be detained and treated under the Mental Health Act. Planning And Infrastructure Bill The bill aims to streamline and speed up planning and associated infrastructure needs to get more housing built. It includes a more top-down approach, with penalties for councils that fail to act. Renters' Rights Bill The bill introduces an end to "no fault" evictions. The bill was long promised by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government. Employment Rights Bill The long-promised bill will be introduced in parliament in the first 100 days of the government. It would ban zero-hours contracts and fire and rehire practices. Also watch | UK: First time for King Charles III to announce new party in power × It will also add extra rights such as flexible working, and make parental leave, sick pay and protection from unfair dismissal immediate rights. Border Security, Asylum And Immigration Bill This sets up the new Border Security Command, with the aim to limit the number of unofficial Channel crossings by asylum seekers. English Devolution Bill The proposed law is intended to extend devolution across England, giving mayors and local authorities the opportunity to take on extra powers. (With inputs from agencies)

British monarch Charles lays out PM Starmer's governance agenda: Top points

<p>Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Thousands of POWs have been freed in more than 50 individual exchanges throughout the war -- an area where the two sides have been able to strike rare agreements since Russia invaded in February 2022.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia's defence ministry on Wednesday each said that 95 of their soldiers had been freed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-exchange-150-prisoners-after-uae-brokered-deal-727558">Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal</a></strong></p>

<p>"We continue to bring our people home. Another 95 defenders have been released from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.</p>

<p>He said the exchange was mediated by the United Arab Emirates.</p>

<p>"As a result of a negotiation process, 95 Russian servicemen... have been returned," Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram.</p>

<p>The ministry shared video images of the freed Russian soldiers smiling and chanting "Glory to Russia" as they were transported by bus to an undisclosed location.</p>

<p>Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova shared a video in which the soldiers, interviewed by Russian officials, said they felt well and did not complain of any health problems.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia &amp; Ukraine exchange 90 prisoners of war</strong></p>

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<p>In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that 1,348 Russian soldiers were being held in Ukrainian captivity, and that Russia had detained 6,465 Ukrainian POWs.</p>

<p>Exchanges have taken place sporadically throughout the conflict.</p>

<p>In a rare instance of direct talks between officials from Moscow and Kyiv, Moskalkova said her office met with a counterpart from Ukraine at the exchange.</p>

<p>The first such meeting took place at an exchange in June, Ukraine's human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told AFP at the time.</p>

<p>The officials discussed "joint humanitarian actions, including those related to the reunification of families", Moskalkova said.</p>

<p>Kyiv accuses Russia of having forcibly deported thousands of Ukrainian children from territory that came under Moscow's control, and is working to secure their return.</p>

<p>Moscow says children were moved for their own protection.</p>

<p>Several have been returned, including through deals brokered by Qatar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday.

Russia and Ukraine have released a total of 190 captured soldiers in the latest prisoner exchange between the two countries, officials in Moscow and Kyiv announced on Wednesday. Thousands of POWs have been freed in more than 50 individual exchanges throughout the war -- an area where the two sides have been able to strike rare agreements since Russia invaded in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia's defence ministry on Wednesday each said that 95 of their soldiers had been freed. Also read | Russia, Ukraine exchange 150 prisoners after UAE-brokered deal "We continue to bring our people home. Another 95 defenders have been released from Russian captivity," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. He said the exchange was mediated by the United Arab Emirates. "As a result of a negotiation process, 95 Russian servicemen... have been returned," Russia's defence ministry said on Telegram. The ministry shared video images of the freed Russian soldiers smiling and chanting "Glory to Russia" as they were transported by bus to an undisclosed location. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova shared a video in which the soldiers, interviewed by Russian officials, said they felt well and did not complain of any health problems. Also watch | Russia & Ukraine exchange 90 prisoners of war × In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that 1,348 Russian soldiers were being held in Ukrainian captivity, and that Russia had detained 6,465 Ukrainian POWs. Exchanges have taken place sporadically throughout the conflict. In a rare instance of direct talks between officials from Moscow and Kyiv, Moskalkova said her office met with a counterpart from Ukraine at the exchange. The first such meeting took place at an exchange in June, Ukraine's human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told AFP at the time. The officials discussed "joint humanitarian actions, including those related to the reunification of families", Moskalkova said. Kyiv accuses Russia of having forcibly deported thousands of Ukrainian children from territory that came under Moscow's control, and is working to secure their return. Moscow says children were moved for their own protection. Several have been returned, including through deals brokered by Qatar. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia and Ukraine conduct third prisoner exchange in recent months

<p>The talks aimed to end the nine-month-old war in the Gaza Strip face four key sticking points that are determining the direction of the overall conflict in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. According to a report in Bloomberg, the sticking points include a host of issues and concerns that the representatives of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led government put up on the table.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Release of hostages</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas took some 250 hostages from Israel when it attacked the Jewish nation-state's southern border areas on October 7 last year. Of these, the group returned 110 and Israel released Palestinian detainees during a seven-day ceasefire that ended on December 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the latest count, Israel says 120 hostages still remain in Gaza. Of these, 32 are women, children and elderly, who should be freed during an initial six-week suspension of hostilities under the draft deal proposed by the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-truce-negotiations-underway-in-doha-739947">Israel-Hamas War: Truce negotiations underway in Doha</a></strong></p>

<p>But, two people briefed on the negotiations quoted by Bloomberg say that Hamas claims it has only 18 living hostages in its captivity. Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly insisting on the return of close to 32 hostages during any next stage of a potential ceasefire, which would include men of military age.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No Hamas in northern Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly demanded that Hamas be barred from northern Gaza. The Israeli prime minister is also insisting on an independent mechanism to ensure that no Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives, which Israel describes as terrorists, or their weaponry are allowed to return to the northern Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel wants control of key southern border corridor</strong></h2>

<p>The Bloomberg report adds that Prime Minister Netanyahu wants Israeli forces to retain control of a key southern border corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No indefinite ceasefire</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Netanyahu further doesn't want to be bound to an indefinite ceasefire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Washington's proposals, on the 16th day of the initial truce Israel and Hamas would start mediated talks on the second stage. If those negotiations prove&nbsp;to be protracted, the initial truce would be extended beyond the allotted six weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Who is Mohammed Deif? The mastermind behind October 7 attacks</strong></p>

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<p>The truce talks gained pace after Hamas dropped objections to the US President Joe Biden's proposed deal on July 7. Negotiators then met in Qatar and Egypt, but the negotiations slowed down when Israel struck central Gaza&nbsp;in a bid to kill Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif.</p>

<p>More than 38,000 Palestinians have died in the fighting, according to Hamas claims. Israel says it has killed some 14,000 fighters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The talks aimed to end the nine-month-old war in the Gaza Strip face four key sticking points that are determining the direction of the overall conflict in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

The talks aimed to end the nine-month-old war in the Gaza Strip face four key sticking points that are determining the direction of the overall conflict in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. According to a report in Bloomberg, the sticking points include a host of issues and concerns that the representatives of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led government put up on the table. Release of hostages Hamas took some 250 hostages from Israel when it attacked the Jewish nation-state's southern border areas on October 7 last year. Of these, the group returned 110 and Israel released Palestinian detainees during a seven-day ceasefire that ended on December 1. At the latest count, Israel says 120 hostages still remain in Gaza. Of these, 32 are women, children and elderly, who should be freed during an initial six-week suspension of hostilities under the draft deal proposed by the United States. Also read | Israel-Hamas War: Truce negotiations underway in Doha But, two people briefed on the negotiations quoted by Bloomberg say that Hamas claims it has only 18 living hostages in its captivity. Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly insisting on the return of close to 32 hostages during any next stage of a potential ceasefire, which would include men of military age. No Hamas in northern Gaza Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly demanded that Hamas be barred from northern Gaza. The Israeli prime minister is also insisting on an independent mechanism to ensure that no Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives, which Israel describes as terrorists, or their weaponry are allowed to return to the northern Gaza Strip. Israel wants control of key southern border corridor The Bloomberg report adds that Prime Minister Netanyahu wants Israeli forces to retain control of a key southern border corridor. No indefinite ceasefire Prime Minister Netanyahu further doesn't want to be bound to an indefinite ceasefire. Under Washington's proposals, on the 16th day of the initial truce Israel and Hamas would start mediated talks on the second stage. If those negotiations prove to be protracted, the initial truce would be extended beyond the allotted six weeks. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Who is Mohammed Deif? The mastermind behind October 7 attacks × The truce talks gained pace after Hamas dropped objections to the US President Joe Biden's proposed deal on July 7. Negotiators then met in Qatar and Egypt, but the negotiations slowed down when Israel struck central Gaza in a bid to kill Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. More than 38,000 Palestinians have died in the fighting, according to Hamas claims. Israel says it has killed some 14,000 fighters. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas proposed six-week truce: What are the four key sticking points?

<p><strong>Mandsaur Farmer Viral Video:</strong> An old man in the Indian state of&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Mandsaur, about 670 kilometres&nbsp;from New Delhi, rolled on the floor of the collectorate office with folded hands while repeating, "What should we do now?" as visitors looked on.</p>

<p>The distressed farmer, in a rugged and worn-out dhoti, was filmed inside the collectorate office, appealing against the alleged occupation of his land by a local mafia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farmer, Shankarlal, accused that even after multiple complaints, no action was taken. The inaction of the authorities prompted him to roll into the halls of the collectorate's office to draw attention.</p>

<p>Shankarlal said: "I am troubled by the land mafia. The Tehsildar makes a mistake, and the farmer suffers. They make the mistake, and I suffer the consequences. I am unhappy with the government and the administration. The officers here are corrupt. We are so troubled... farmers are being cheated."</p>

<h2><strong>Mandsaur Farmer Viral Video</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">मंदसौर के बुजुर्ग किसान हैं, कहते हैं कहीं सुनवाई नहीं हो रही आरोप है कि ज़मीन फर्जी दस्तावेजों के जरिये कुछ लोगों ने हड़प ली है ... कलेक्टर दफ्तर से यूं निराश होकर लौटे ... <a href="https://t.co/bpAHfHp2NH">pic.twitter.com/bpAHfHp2NH</a></p>
— Anurag Dwary (@Anurag_Dwary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anurag_Dwary/status/1813502185684021656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>WION reached out to Mandsaur's collectorate office for a response on the story but our calls went unanswered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the local administration has clarified that the complainant, which is Shankarlal, continues to maintain possession of the disputed land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, in Sukhad village of Mandsaur, in area number 604, there are 2.5 hectares of land, and survey number 625 comprises 1.01 hectares.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The land at present is jointly held by Shankarlal and his family. They are Anokhilal, Bhagwan Bhai, and Resham Bhai, sons of Phoolchand, along with Baba Ghasiram, Karu Lal, Ramlal, Prabhu Lal, Mangi Bai, and Parvati Bai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Half of these 1.01 hectares was&nbsp;sold to one Ashwin, according to a sale deed dated December 31, 2010.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the sold land currently remains in the possession of Karu Lal, Ramlal, Prabhu Lal, Mangi Bai and Parvati Bai, who are unwilling to hand it over to Ashwin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It remains unclear if the land was sold by Shankarlal under duress or not.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mandsaur Farmer Viral Video: An old man in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur, about 670 kilometres from New Delhi, rolled on the floor of the collectorate office with folded hands while repeating, "What should we do now?

Mandsaur Farmer Viral Video: An old man in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur, about 670 kilometres from New Delhi, rolled on the floor of the collectorate office with folded hands while repeating, "What should we do now?" as visitors looked on. The distressed farmer, in a rugged and worn-out dhoti, was filmed inside the collectorate office, appealing against the alleged occupation of his land by a local mafia. The farmer, Shankarlal, accused that even after multiple complaints, no action was taken. The inaction of the authorities prompted him to roll into the halls of the collectorate's office to draw attention. Shankarlal said: "I am troubled by the land mafia. The Tehsildar makes a mistake, and the farmer suffers. They make the mistake, and I suffer the consequences. I am unhappy with the government and the administration. The officers here are corrupt. We are so troubled... farmers are being cheated." Mandsaur Farmer Viral Video मंदसौर के बुजुर्ग किसान हैं, कहते हैं कहीं सुनवाई नहीं हो रही आरोप है कि ज़मीन फर्जी दस्तावेजों के जरिये कुछ लोगों ने हड़प ली है ... कलेक्टर दफ्तर से यूं निराश होकर लौटे ... pic.twitter.com/bpAHfHp2NH — Anurag Dwary (@Anurag_Dwary) July 17, 2024 × WION reached out to Mandsaur's collectorate office for a response on the story but our calls went unanswered. However, the local administration has clarified that the complainant, which is Shankarlal, continues to maintain possession of the disputed land. According to reports, in Sukhad village of Mandsaur, in area number 604, there are 2.5 hectares of land, and survey number 625 comprises 1.01 hectares. The land at present is jointly held by Shankarlal and his family. They are Anokhilal, Bhagwan Bhai, and Resham Bhai, sons of Phoolchand, along with Baba Ghasiram, Karu Lal, Ramlal, Prabhu Lal, Mangi Bai, and Parvati Bai. Half of these 1.01 hectares was sold to one Ashwin, according to a sale deed dated December 31, 2010. But the sold land currently remains in the possession of Karu Lal, Ramlal, Prabhu Lal, Mangi Bai and Parvati Bai, who are unwilling to hand it over to Ashwin. It remains unclear if the land was sold by Shankarlal under duress or not. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Indian farmer rolls on floor while protesting alleged land occupation by mafia

<p>After former US president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump survived the July 13 assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the Republican National Convention in which US President Joe Biden's predecessor is all set to announce his running-mate for the November presidential elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-trump-assassination-attempt-has-turbocharged-his-presidential-re-run-740763">How Trump assassination attempt has turbocharged his presidential re-run</a></strong></p>

<p>Unlike 2016 and 2020, when Trump-Pence banners marked Republican political ascent and descent from the White House, this time Trump is yet to announce who his running mate will be.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Who will be Donald Trump's Vice President?</strong></p>

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<p>Here's a look at his potential running mates:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>J.D. Vance</strong>: The senator from Ohio has been in the elected office since less than two years. But he has emerged as a leading figure of Trump's 'Make America Great Again' movement. His unparalleled ability to articulate the principle stands of US right-wing&nbsp;— in quite Ben Shapiro style&nbsp;— has earned him praise among Republicans and simultaneous opposition from the Democrats. As the voice of "national conservatives" or "the new right", Vance calls for the need for secure borders and state intervention in the economy.</p>

<p><strong>Doug Burgum</strong>: The North Dakota governor has been companion to Donald Trump on the campaign trail while acting as an articulate Republican voice on American&nbsp;television. After Burgum endorsed Donald&nbsp;Trump in January, the former president described him as "the most solid guy." "There’s no controversy whatsoever," Trump was quoted as saying by the Wall Street Journal.</p>

<p><strong>Marco Rubio</strong>: The Florida senator's supporters have projected Donald Trump as the "only hope for the United States". Rubio has thrown off his charisma to both working-class and professional-sector voters, including Hispanics, while pitching his attributes as son of Cuban immigrants. Trump and Rubio bonded during Trump’s presidential term, when Rubio served as an informal adviser on Latin American policy and worked with Ivanka Trump on expanding the Child Tax Credit.</p>

<p>Are we looking at a Trump-Rubio campaign for November? Well, Trump is set to clarify in the Republican National Convention.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After former US president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump survived the July 13 assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the Republican National Convention in which US President Joe Biden's predecessor is all set to announce his running-mate for the November presidential elections.

After former US president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump survived the July 13 assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the Republican National Convention in which US President Joe Biden's predecessor is all set to announce his running-mate for the November presidential elections. Also read | How Trump assassination attempt has turbocharged his presidential re-run Unlike 2016 and 2020, when Trump-Pence banners marked Republican political ascent and descent from the White House, this time Trump is yet to announce who his running mate will be. Also watch | Who will be Donald Trump's Vice President? × Here's a look at his potential running mates: J.D. Vance: The senator from Ohio has been in the elected office since less than two years. But he has emerged as a leading figure of Trump's 'Make America Great Again' movement. His unparalleled ability to articulate the principle stands of US right-wing — in quite Ben Shapiro style — has earned him praise among Republicans and simultaneous opposition from the Democrats. As the voice of "national conservatives" or "the new right", Vance calls for the need for secure borders and state intervention in the economy. Doug Burgum: The North Dakota governor has been companion to Donald Trump on the campaign trail while acting as an articulate Republican voice on American television. After Burgum endorsed Donald Trump in January, the former president described him as "the most solid guy." "There’s no controversy whatsoever," Trump was quoted as saying by the Wall Street Journal. Marco Rubio: The Florida senator's supporters have projected Donald Trump as the "only hope for the United States". Rubio has thrown off his charisma to both working-class and professional-sector voters, including Hispanics, while pitching his attributes as son of Cuban immigrants. Trump and Rubio bonded during Trump’s presidential term, when Rubio served as an informal adviser on Latin American policy and worked with Ivanka Trump on expanding the Child Tax Credit. Are we looking at a Trump-Rubio campaign for November? Well, Trump is set to clarify in the Republican National Convention. (With inputs from agencies)

Countdown to Republican VP: Who will be Donald Trump's running mate?

<p>Probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar's training in western Maharashtra state was put on hold on Tuesday (July 16) amid ongoing controversy over her selection in the civil services exam. Khedkar is accused of forging disability certificates to clear the highly competitive exam taken by millions annually.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-pune-ias-officer-pooja-khedkar-ias-trainee-who-made-vip-demands-739564">Who is Pooja Khedkar? IAS trainee who made VIP demands, transferred</a></strong></p>

<p>Mussoorie-based Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), in a letter said that it has decided to place the District Training Programme of Puja Dilip Khedkar on hold. It also issued an immediate recall for further necessary action.</p>

<p>According to the official notice from LBSNAA, Puja Khedkar, currently the Super Numerary Assistant Collector in Washim, Maharashtra, has been relieved from her training duties in Maharashtra. Khedkar has been asked to report back to the academy as soon as possible, and no later than July 23.</p>

<h2><strong>Puja Khedkar controversy: What is it all about?</strong></h2>

<p>Khedkar is accused of misusing the disability and Other Backward Class quota to secure a position in the service.</p>

<p>Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government constituted a single-member committee to verify the candidature of Puja Khedkar.</p>

<p>Khedkar is a 2023-batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre. She kicked up a row after requesting special privileges from the Pune Collector’s office that were not permitted for her designation.</p>

<p>The Maharashtra government led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde&nbsp;then transferred her from Pune to Washim district.</p>

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<p>But Khedkar's demand for special privileges and her subsequent transfer became a doorstep of&nbsp;details about her attempts at the civil services exam.</p>

<p>It was revealed in a certificate submitted by her in which she claimed to be visually impaired and mentally ill. Despite her low examination marks, these concessions made it possible for her to clear the exams. Khedkar secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 821.</p>

<h2><strong>Puja Khedkar files harassment complaint</strong></h2>

<p>Later on Tuesday (July 16), &nbsp;Khedkar lodged a harassment complaint against Pune district collector Suhas Diwase. Khedkar filed the complaint at her Washim residence. "Women police personnel visited Khedkar at her residence in Washim on Monday, and she lodged a complaint of harassment against Pune district collector Suhas Diwase," an&nbsp;official stated.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar's training in western Maharashtra state was put on hold on Tuesday (July 16) amid ongoing controversy over her selection in the civil services exam.

Probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar's training in western Maharashtra state was put on hold on Tuesday (July 16) amid ongoing controversy over her selection in the civil services exam. Khedkar is accused of forging disability certificates to clear the highly competitive exam taken by millions annually. Also read | Who is Pooja Khedkar? IAS trainee who made VIP demands, transferred Mussoorie-based Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), in a letter said that it has decided to place the District Training Programme of Puja Dilip Khedkar on hold. It also issued an immediate recall for further necessary action. According to the official notice from LBSNAA, Puja Khedkar, currently the Super Numerary Assistant Collector in Washim, Maharashtra, has been relieved from her training duties in Maharashtra. Khedkar has been asked to report back to the academy as soon as possible, and no later than July 23. Puja Khedkar controversy: What is it all about? Khedkar is accused of misusing the disability and Other Backward Class quota to secure a position in the service. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government constituted a single-member committee to verify the candidature of Puja Khedkar. Khedkar is a 2023-batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre. She kicked up a row after requesting special privileges from the Pune Collector’s office that were not permitted for her designation. The Maharashtra government led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde then transferred her from Pune to Washim district. × But Khedkar's demand for special privileges and her subsequent transfer became a doorstep of details about her attempts at the civil services exam. It was revealed in a certificate submitted by her in which she claimed to be visually impaired and mentally ill. Despite her low examination marks, these concessions made it possible for her to clear the exams. Khedkar secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 821. Puja Khedkar files harassment complaint Later on Tuesday (July 16), Khedkar lodged a harassment complaint against Pune district collector Suhas Diwase. Khedkar filed the complaint at her Washim residence. "Women police personnel visited Khedkar at her residence in Washim on Monday, and she lodged a complaint of harassment against Pune district collector Suhas Diwase," an official stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar’s training in Maharashtra put on hold, recalled to Mussoorie academy

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