<p><strong>Kolkata Doctor rape-murder case</strong>: The federally ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched its 12-hour 'Bangla Bandh' or lockdown in the eastern West Bengal state on the morning of Wednesday (August 28) to protest police action against protesters who participated in the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally on Tuesday (August 27).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Early morning visuals showed the BJP workers taking to the streets while sloganeering against the state Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress matriarch Mamata Banerjee. The BJP workers also took to the railway tracks to purportedly disrupt the railway's functioning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Government bus services were partially affected in Siliguri and Paschim Medinipur in West Bengal.</p>

<p>Visuals from the news agency Press Trust of India showed bus drivers, and conductors&nbsp;wearing helmets during duty for their physical safety</p>

<p>"The government will not allow any bandh on Wednesday. We urge people not to participate in it. All steps shall be taken to ensure that normal life is unaffected," Alapan Bandopadhyay, the chief advisor to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, said.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Aug 27), hundreds of people were arrested and several injured in several parts of Kolkata city after the police fired tear gas shells on protesters attempting to proceed towards the state secretariat to press for Mamata Banerjee's resignation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rally was organised by a new student body, 'Paschimbanga Chhatra Samaj' in protest against the alleged rape and murder of a woman trainee doctor inside RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kolkata Protests: Police detain protesters after violence at protests over doctor's rape, murder</strong></p>

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<p>Reacting to violence during the ‘<em>Nabanna Abhijan</em>’ rally, BJP President JP Nadda said the TMC chief Mamata Banerjee has crossed all limits of "cruelty and dictatorship" in West Bengal.</p>

<p>"Keeping in mind the sentiments of the common citizens, the Bharatiya Janata Party has called for a Bengal bandh for 12 hours from 6 am on Wednesday. I am confident that the people of Bengal will stand with us and will leave no stone unturned to shatter the pride of Mamata Banerjee and create an environment to overthrow such an oppressive government," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation will now seek the opinion of medical experts from the Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences to ascertain if the main accused Sanjay Roy was the only accused who committed the crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-murder-cbi-seeks-aiims-experts-help-kolkata-police-assistant-sub-inspectors-polygraph-test-753823">Kolkata rape-murder: CBI seeks AIIMS experts' help, Kolkata police assistant sub-inspector's polygraph test</a></strong></p>

<p>Roy is currently under judicial custody. The central agency is investigating the rape and murder alongside financial irregularities against the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Sandip Ghosh.</p>

<p>In addition to the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken cognisance of the CBI's first information report (FIR) and launched a money laundering probe against Ghosh.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kolkata Doctor rape-murder case: The federally ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched its 12-hour 'Bangla Bandh' or lockdown in the eastern West Bengal state on the morning of Wednesday (August 28) to protest police action against protesters who participated in the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally on Tuesday (August 27).

Kolkata Doctor rape-murder case: The federally ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched its 12-hour 'Bangla Bandh' or lockdown in the eastern West Bengal state on the morning of Wednesday (August 28) to protest police action against protesters who participated in the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally on Tuesday (August 27). Early morning visuals showed the BJP workers taking to the streets while sloganeering against the state Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress matriarch Mamata Banerjee. The BJP workers also took to the railway tracks to purportedly disrupt the railway's functioning. Government bus services were partially affected in Siliguri and Paschim Medinipur in West Bengal. Visuals from the news agency Press Trust of India showed bus drivers, and conductors wearing helmets during duty for their physical safety "The government will not allow any bandh on Wednesday. We urge people not to participate in it. All steps shall be taken to ensure that normal life is unaffected," Alapan Bandopadhyay, the chief advisor to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, said. On Tuesday (Aug 27), hundreds of people were arrested and several injured in several parts of Kolkata city after the police fired tear gas shells on protesters attempting to proceed towards the state secretariat to press for Mamata Banerjee's resignation. The rally was organised by a new student body, 'Paschimbanga Chhatra Samaj' in protest against the alleged rape and murder of a woman trainee doctor inside RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on August 9. Also watch | Kolkata Protests: Police detain protesters after violence at protests over doctor's rape, murder × Reacting to violence during the ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ rally, BJP President JP Nadda said the TMC chief Mamata Banerjee has crossed all limits of "cruelty and dictatorship" in West Bengal. "Keeping in mind the sentiments of the common citizens, the Bharatiya Janata Party has called for a Bengal bandh for 12 hours from 6 am on Wednesday. I am confident that the people of Bengal will stand with us and will leave no stone unturned to shatter the pride of Mamata Banerjee and create an environment to overthrow such an oppressive government," he added. Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation will now seek the opinion of medical experts from the Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences to ascertain if the main accused Sanjay Roy was the only accused who committed the crime. Also read | Kolkata rape-murder: CBI seeks AIIMS experts' help, Kolkata police assistant sub-inspector's polygraph test Roy is currently under judicial custody. The central agency is investigating the rape and murder alongside financial irregularities against the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Sandip Ghosh. In addition to the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken cognisance of the CBI's first information report (FIR) and launched a money laundering probe against Ghosh. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: BJP launches West Bengal shutdown over police action on protesters

<p>Five-year-old Namibian Cheetah Pawan, who made Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park his freewheeling home, was found dead near an overflowing drain in the conservation facility on Tuesday (Aug&nbsp;27).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the eighth such fatality after the wild cats were translocated from Africa to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Befitting to his name Pawan, literally meaning breeze, the wild cat roamed around Kuno and often went out of the designated enclosure. He leaves behind two litters of seven cubs, one each with Cheetahs Asha and Jwala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to his freewheeling nature, Pawan was selected as the first cheetah from his batch to be released into the wild on 11 March 2023.</p>

<p>After being released into the wild, Pawan travelled large distances and covered over 300 km to the borders with Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, successfully crossing the Chambal river, Kuno officials said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/purrs-in-the-wild-namibian-cheetah-delivers-three-cubs-in-kuno-park-in-indias-madhya-pradesh-676341">'Purrs in the wild': Namibian cheetah delivers three cubs in Kuno Park in India's Madhya Pradesh</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF) Uttam Sharma, Pawan, was traced at 10:30 am (IST).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upon closer inspection, veterinarians found the cheetah partly submerged in water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The front half of the body, including the head, was inside the water, according to a press release.</p>

<p>Pawan had no external injuries or marks on his body, following which the forest officials believe that he died of drowning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Why are cheetah cubs born at Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh dying?</strong></p>

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<p>Further details would be clear after reports of the samples sent following the post-mortem were received, authorities said.</p>

<p>There are now 24 cheetahs, 12 adults and as many cubs, in the enclosures at Kuno.</p>

<p>Pawan, originally named Oban, was among the first batch of eight cheetahs brought to India from Namibia in September 2022 under Project Cheetah. The second batch of 12 cheetahs was flown in from South Africa last February. The programme was started by the government to restore the population of cheetahs in the country.</p>

<p>Eight adult cheetahs—three females and five males—have died in Kuno so far. Four of them fell to septicemia. Seventeen cubs have been born of which 12 survived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Five-year-old Namibian Cheetah Pawan, who made Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park his freewheeling home, was found dead near an overflowing drain in the conservation facility on Tuesday (Aug 27).

Five-year-old Namibian Cheetah Pawan, who made Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park his freewheeling home, was found dead near an overflowing drain in the conservation facility on Tuesday (Aug 27). This is the eighth such fatality after the wild cats were translocated from Africa to India. Befitting to his name Pawan, literally meaning breeze, the wild cat roamed around Kuno and often went out of the designated enclosure. He leaves behind two litters of seven cubs, one each with Cheetahs Asha and Jwala. Due to his freewheeling nature, Pawan was selected as the first cheetah from his batch to be released into the wild on 11 March 2023. After being released into the wild, Pawan travelled large distances and covered over 300 km to the borders with Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, successfully crossing the Chambal river, Kuno officials said. Also read | 'Purrs in the wild': Namibian cheetah delivers three cubs in Kuno Park in India's Madhya Pradesh According to Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF) Uttam Sharma, Pawan, was traced at 10:30 am (IST). Upon closer inspection, veterinarians found the cheetah partly submerged in water. The front half of the body, including the head, was inside the water, according to a press release. Pawan had no external injuries or marks on his body, following which the forest officials believe that he died of drowning. Also watch | Why are cheetah cubs born at Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh dying? × Further details would be clear after reports of the samples sent following the post-mortem were received, authorities said. There are now 24 cheetahs, 12 adults and as many cubs, in the enclosures at Kuno. Pawan, originally named Oban, was among the first batch of eight cheetahs brought to India from Namibia in September 2022 under Project Cheetah. The second batch of 12 cheetahs was flown in from South Africa last February. The programme was started by the government to restore the population of cheetahs in the country. Eight adult cheetahs—three females and five males—have died in Kuno so far. Four of them fell to septicemia. Seventeen cubs have been born of which 12 survived. (With inputs from agencies)

Namibia's Oban, who became India's breezy Pawan in Kuno, found dead

<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (August 28) slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party's 12-hour 'Bengal Bandh' or shutdown protest&nbsp;organised in response to the violence during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally when&nbsp;the police fired tear gas on protesters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to tarnish the state's image.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have dedicated this day to the RG Kar doctor. We want justice, but the BJP today called for a bandh. They don't want justice; they are only trying to defame Bengal," she stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-bjp-launches-west-bengal-shutdown-over-police-action-on-protestors-753871">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: BJP launches West Bengal shutdown over police action on protesters</a></strong></p>

<p>Describing the bandh as unnecessary, Banerjee criticised the BJP for not demanding the resignations of chief ministers in other states where similar incidents have occurred. She even went on to praise the police for their handling of the 'Nabanna Abhijan' protesters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We don't support this bandh. BJP never demanded the resignations of the CMs of UP, MP, and even Manipur. I salute the police for handling the situation well," Banerjee said.</p>

<p>Addressing the broader issue of violence against women, Banerjee called for severe punishment for rapists and announced her government's intent to introduce new legislative measures. "For this, there is only one punishment—to hang till death," she asserted.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kolkata rape-murder case: Protest march to state secretariat</strong></p>

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<p>Banerjee also disclosed plans to introduce a bill within the next 10 days that would mandate the death penalty for rapists in West Bengal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Next week, we will call an Assembly session and pass a bill within 10 days to ensure capital punishment for rapists. We will send this bill to the Governor. If he doesn't pass the bill, we will sit outside Raj Bhavan. This bill must be passed, and he cannot evade accountability this time," Banerjee said.</p>

<p>The BJP's call for a '12-hour Bengal Bandh' came after police used lathi charge, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse demonstrators during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (August 28) slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party's 12-hour 'Bengal Bandh' or shutdown protest organised in response to the violence during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally when the police fired tear gas on protesters.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (August 28) slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party's 12-hour 'Bengal Bandh' or shutdown protest organised in response to the violence during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally when the police fired tear gas on protesters. Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to tarnish the state's image. "We have dedicated this day to the RG Kar doctor. We want justice, but the BJP today called for a bandh. They don't want justice; they are only trying to defame Bengal," she stated. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: BJP launches West Bengal shutdown over police action on protesters Describing the bandh as unnecessary, Banerjee criticised the BJP for not demanding the resignations of chief ministers in other states where similar incidents have occurred. She even went on to praise the police for their handling of the 'Nabanna Abhijan' protesters. "We don't support this bandh. BJP never demanded the resignations of the CMs of UP, MP, and even Manipur. I salute the police for handling the situation well," Banerjee said. Addressing the broader issue of violence against women, Banerjee called for severe punishment for rapists and announced her government's intent to introduce new legislative measures. "For this, there is only one punishment—to hang till death," she asserted. Also watch | Kolkata rape-murder case: Protest march to state secretariat × Banerjee also disclosed plans to introduce a bill within the next 10 days that would mandate the death penalty for rapists in West Bengal. "Next week, we will call an Assembly session and pass a bill within 10 days to ensure capital punishment for rapists. We will send this bill to the Governor. If he doesn't pass the bill, we will sit outside Raj Bhavan. This bill must be passed, and he cannot evade accountability this time," Banerjee said. The BJP's call for a '12-hour Bengal Bandh' came after police used lathi charge, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse demonstrators during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally. (With inputs from agencies)

CM Mamata Banerjee salutes West Bengal police after teargas use on protesters

<p>The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla temple in north&nbsp;India's Ayodhya on Jan 22 costed ₹113 Crore ($13.45 million), according to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Times of India&nbsp;reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that the temple trust, in its latest meeting disclosed that ₹1,800 crore ($214.4mn) have been spent on the construction of the temple so far. Additionally ₹670 crore ($79.8mn) will be spent on the construction of the remaining phases of the temple, scheduled to be completed by the end of this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The annual accounts for the financial year 2023-24 were also presented before the board of trustees. The trust will file income tax return in September. The trust said in the past four years, devotees have donated approximately 20kg gold and 13 quintal silver to the temple.</p>

<p>According to trust general secretary Champat Rai, the total projected expenditure between April 1, 2024, and Mar 31, 2025, would be ₹850 crore ($101.24mn).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cast-from-the-past-rath-yatra-to-ram-mandir-between-advani-of-1990-and-modi-of-2024-682579">Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was formed on February 5, 2020, as a result of the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ayodhya title dispute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On November 9, 2019, the Supreme Court allowed the construction of a Ram temple at the site of the demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and ordered handing over another 5-acre plot to the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board for the mosque.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled</strong></p>

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<p>The top court ordered the government to create a trust to construct a Hindu temple on the disputed land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trust's objectives include building a grand temple to Shri Ram at Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya, managing the 67.703 acre land acquired under the Supreme Court's verdict, and constructing and managing ancillary works, such as a museum and hospital. The trust has 15 members, of which 9 are permanent and 6 are nominated members. One of the members of the Trust is supposed to be a Dalit person.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla temple in north India's Ayodhya on Jan 22 costed ₹113 Crore ($13.45 million), according to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Times of India reported.

The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla temple in north India's Ayodhya on Jan 22 costed ₹113 Crore ($13.45 million), according to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Times of India reported. The report added that the temple trust, in its latest meeting disclosed that ₹1,800 crore ($214.4mn) have been spent on the construction of the temple so far. Additionally ₹670 crore ($79.8mn) will be spent on the construction of the remaining phases of the temple, scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. The annual accounts for the financial year 2023-24 were also presented before the board of trustees. The trust will file income tax return in September. The trust said in the past four years, devotees have donated approximately 20kg gold and 13 quintal silver to the temple. According to trust general secretary Champat Rai, the total projected expenditure between April 1, 2024, and Mar 31, 2025, would be ₹850 crore ($101.24mn). Also read | Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024 The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was formed on February 5, 2020, as a result of the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ayodhya title dispute. On November 9, 2019, the Supreme Court allowed the construction of a Ram temple at the site of the demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and ordered handing over another 5-acre plot to the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board for the mosque. Also watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled × The top court ordered the government to create a trust to construct a Hindu temple on the disputed land. The trust's objectives include building a grand temple to Shri Ram at Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya, managing the 67.703 acre land acquired under the Supreme Court's verdict, and constructing and managing ancillary works, such as a museum and hospital. The trust has 15 members, of which 9 are permanent and 6 are nominated members. One of the members of the Trust is supposed to be a Dalit person. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya consecration costed $13.45 million; over $214mn spent on temple so far

<p>Canadian police warned an aide to listed Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar of an increased threat to his life, yet another Sikh separatist claimed on Tuesday (Aug&nbsp;27).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun said police in the Canadian province of Ontario had issued a so-called "duty to warn" notice to Inderjeet Singh Gosal this week.</p>

<p>Gosal worked as an aide to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was gunned down in June 2023.</p>

<p>In September 2023,&nbsp;shortly after New Delhi hosted Canadian PM Justin Trudeau during the G20 leaders summit, the Canadian leader cited so-called "credible allegations" of possible Indian government involvement in Nijjar's killing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police have since charged four men with the killing. India has denied any connection to the shooting.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in June 2024, the Canadian parliament went on to observe a "one-minute silence" in the memory of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pulls-off-a-pakistan-act-holds-moment-of-silent-for-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-in-parliament-733095">Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament</a></strong></p>

<p>India on June 21 was critical of the Canadian parliament's act of commemorating a listed terrorist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We naturally oppose any moves giving political space to extremism and advocacy of violence," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said.</p>

<p>The US Federal Bureau of Investigation last week said it was investigating an Aug 11 drive-by shooting that targeted a California activist with close ties to Nijjar.</p>

<p>New Delhi has called out Canada's harbouring of Sikh separatists who seek to create a homeland known as Khalistan by carving it out of the Indian region of Punjab.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects</strong></p>

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<p>"I have been informed by Canadian officials about the threats to my life," a statement from Pannun cited Gosal as saying.</p>

<p>In June 2023, the FBI foiled an alleged assassination attempt against Pannun. Indian national Nikhil Gupta has been charged with trying to arrange the murder at the behest of an Indian intelligence official.</p>


Canadian police warned an aide to listed Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar of an increased threat to his life, yet another Sikh separatist claimed on Tuesday (Aug 27).

Canadian police warned an aide to listed Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar of an increased threat to his life, yet another Sikh separatist claimed on Tuesday (Aug 27). Separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun said police in the Canadian province of Ontario had issued a so-called "duty to warn" notice to Inderjeet Singh Gosal this week. Gosal worked as an aide to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was gunned down in June 2023. In September 2023, shortly after New Delhi hosted Canadian PM Justin Trudeau during the G20 leaders summit, the Canadian leader cited so-called "credible allegations" of possible Indian government involvement in Nijjar's killing. Police have since charged four men with the killing. India has denied any connection to the shooting. Meanwhile, in June 2024, the Canadian parliament went on to observe a "one-minute silence" in the memory of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Also read | Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament India on June 21 was critical of the Canadian parliament's act of commemorating a listed terrorist. "We naturally oppose any moves giving political space to extremism and advocacy of violence," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said. The US Federal Bureau of Investigation last week said it was investigating an Aug 11 drive-by shooting that targeted a California activist with close ties to Nijjar. New Delhi has called out Canada's harbouring of Sikh separatists who seek to create a homeland known as Khalistan by carving it out of the Indian region of Punjab. Also watch | Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects × "I have been informed by Canadian officials about the threats to my life," a statement from Pannun cited Gosal as saying. In June 2023, the FBI foiled an alleged assassination attempt against Pannun. Indian national Nikhil Gupta has been charged with trying to arrange the murder at the behest of an Indian intelligence official.

Nijjar aide warned of 'increased threat to life', claims separatist Pannun

<p>A Texas federal judge temporarily blocked on Monday (August 26) a Biden administration order that could effectively give citizenship to up to half a million undocumented immigrants married to US citizens. A total of 16 Republican-led states had sued the Biden administration for the program.</p>

<p>Judge J. Campbell Barker of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas issued an administrative stay. This stay stops the Biden administration from approving these citizenship applications.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rupert-murdoch-is-in-legal-battle-to-change-his-trust-terms-lachlan-pitted-against-james-and-sisters-report-743995">Rupert Murdoch is in legal battle to change his trust terms, Lachlan pitted against James and sisters: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The administration began accepting such applications last week based on the merits of the case.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the federal judge say?</strong></h2>

<p>Judge Barker while suspending the initiative said that the 67-page complaint filed last week raised legitimate questions about the authority of the executive branch to bypass Congress and set immigration policy.</p>

<p>"The claims are substantial and warrant closer consideration than the court has been able to afford to date." wrote Judge Barker who was&nbsp;appointed by former US President Donald Trump.</p>

<p>The suspension of the policy will remain in place for two weeks and is subject to extension.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US immigration policy 2024: What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The Biden administration can continue to accept applications for the program but can no longer approve them, according to Judge Barker's order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Biden administration's latest immigration program, called Keeping Families Together, has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans led by Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Controversial U.S. Immigration policy Title 42 ends</strong></p>

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<p>In the lawsuit, the Republican-led states said that the program appears to be an "amnesty" for immigrants who entered the United States unlawfully.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Biden administration's Keeping Family Together programme?</strong></h2>

<p>The program eases legalisation for undocumented people who are married to Americans and have been living in the United States for more than 10 years. The potential beneficiaries have been in the country for 23 years, on average, according to the Homeland Security Department.</p>

<p>While marrying a US citizen is enough for a pathway to the US citizenship, the individuals who cross the southern border illegally are required to return to their home countries to complete the green card process.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Texas federal judge temporarily blocked on Monday (August 26) a Biden administration order that could effectively give citizenship to up to half a million undocumented immigrants married to US citizens.

A Texas federal judge temporarily blocked on Monday (August 26) a Biden administration order that could effectively give citizenship to up to half a million undocumented immigrants married to US citizens. A total of 16 Republican-led states had sued the Biden administration for the program. Judge J. Campbell Barker of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas issued an administrative stay. This stay stops the Biden administration from approving these citizenship applications. Also read | Rupert Murdoch is in legal battle to change his trust terms, Lachlan pitted against James and sisters: Report The administration began accepting such applications last week based on the merits of the case. What did the federal judge say? Judge Barker while suspending the initiative said that the 67-page complaint filed last week raised legitimate questions about the authority of the executive branch to bypass Congress and set immigration policy. "The claims are substantial and warrant closer consideration than the court has been able to afford to date." wrote Judge Barker who was appointed by former US President Donald Trump. The suspension of the policy will remain in place for two weeks and is subject to extension. US immigration policy 2024: What next? The Biden administration can continue to accept applications for the program but can no longer approve them, according to Judge Barker's order. The Biden administration's latest immigration program, called Keeping Families Together, has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans led by Donald Trump. Also watch | Gravitas: Controversial U.S. Immigration policy Title 42 ends × In the lawsuit, the Republican-led states said that the program appears to be an "amnesty" for immigrants who entered the United States unlawfully. What is Biden administration's Keeping Family Together programme? The program eases legalisation for undocumented people who are married to Americans and have been living in the United States for more than 10 years. The potential beneficiaries have been in the country for 23 years, on average, according to the Homeland Security Department. While marrying a US citizen is enough for a pathway to the US citizenship, the individuals who cross the southern border illegally are required to return to their home countries to complete the green card process. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump-appointed judge halts path to citizenship of over half a million immigrants

<p>While Indian and Chinese troops remain locked in a standoff in Ladakh since April 2020, &nbsp;the race for influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) continues. On Monday (Aug 26), Indian frontline warship, the guided-missile destroyer INS Mumbai docked at Colombo port.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The docking of INS Colombo coincided with the docking of three Chinese warships on the same morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;New Delhi's 'neighbourhood first' policy</strong></p>

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<p>The purported maritime show of influence by Beijing and New Delhi has sent some waves across the Indian Ocean Region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chinese warships, including those part of its anti-piracy escort forces, are now staying in the IOR for a much longer time than earlier," an Indian defence establishment was quoted as saying by the Times of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-neighbourhood-first-sagar-outlook-foreign-policy-frameworks-at-centre-of-modi-30-inauguration-730111">What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration</a></strong></p>

<p>"The expanding Chinese naval presence in the IOR, along with Beijing's hunt for additional logistical turnaround facilities in the region," the person further told Times of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian naval forces tracked three Chinese warships since the beginning of their voyage in the Indian Ocean Region. Beijing sent destroyer Hefei, and landing platform docks Wuzhishan and Qilianshan with a combined crew of nearly 1,500 personnel, the Times of India report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-south-asia-outreach-has-a-minus-india-angle-amid-new-delhis-neighbourhood-first-push-743606">China's South Asia outreach has a 'minus India' angle amid New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' push</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As New Delhi continues its focus on 'Neighbourhood First' foreign policy paradigm, Colombo welcomed INS Mumbai. But Colombo also welcomed the Chinese warships in accordance with the "naval traditions". The warship is commanded by Captain Sandeep Kumar with a crew of 410 sailors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past, New Delhi has registered strong protests with Colombo for allowing Chinese vessels to dock on its ports.</p>


While Indian and Chinese troops remain locked in a standoff in Ladakh since April 2020, the race for influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) continues. On Monday (Aug 26), Indian frontline warship, the guided-missile destroyer INS Mumbai docked at Colombo port.

While Indian and Chinese troops remain locked in a standoff in Ladakh since April 2020, the race for influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) continues. On Monday (Aug 26), Indian frontline warship, the guided-missile destroyer INS Mumbai docked at Colombo port. The docking of INS Colombo coincided with the docking of three Chinese warships on the same morning. Also watch | New Delhi's 'neighbourhood first' policy × The purported maritime show of influence by Beijing and New Delhi has sent some waves across the Indian Ocean Region. "Chinese warships, including those part of its anti-piracy escort forces, are now staying in the IOR for a much longer time than earlier," an Indian defence establishment was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Also read | What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration "The expanding Chinese naval presence in the IOR, along with Beijing's hunt for additional logistical turnaround facilities in the region," the person further told Times of India. The Indian naval forces tracked three Chinese warships since the beginning of their voyage in the Indian Ocean Region. Beijing sent destroyer Hefei, and landing platform docks Wuzhishan and Qilianshan with a combined crew of nearly 1,500 personnel, the Times of India report added. Also read | China's South Asia outreach has a 'minus India' angle amid New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' push As New Delhi continues its focus on 'Neighbourhood First' foreign policy paradigm, Colombo welcomed INS Mumbai. But Colombo also welcomed the Chinese warships in accordance with the "naval traditions". The warship is commanded by Captain Sandeep Kumar with a crew of 410 sailors. In the past, New Delhi has registered strong protests with Colombo for allowing Chinese vessels to dock on its ports.

INS Mumbai docks in Colombo as three Chinese warships visit Sri Lankan port

<p>Police in the Maldives are investigating an alleged attempt to topple President Mohamed Muizzu by stirring anger over the Indian Ocean archipelago's worsening financial woes.</p>

<p>Last week, the main commercial bank in the upmarket tourist destination drastically reduced the foreign exchange spending allowed for Maldivians, sparking widespread anger.</p>

<p>Muizzu has slammed the move as an "illegal attempt" to overthrow his government, by making him unpopular and encouraging street protests.</p>

<p>"An investigation has been launched into the alleged coup attempt," the police said in a statement late Monday.</p>

<p>There have been no demonstrations in the capital Male, but scathing criticism of the government has erupted online.</p>

<p>"Hundreds of 'bot' accounts have been used on social media to encourage people to take to the streets to overthrow the government and incite public unrest," police said.</p>

<p>The bank said the changes, which they have since rescinded, came "in response to the escalating usage of foreign currency spend on cards and the static sale of foreign currency to the Bank".</p>

<p>The international credit rating agency Fitch downgraded the Maldives in June and warned it could be headed for a sovereign default, after its foreign currency reserves dropped to $492 million in May.</p>

<p>The downgrade came weeks after the IMF warned the Maldives against a looming "debt distress", as the small but strategically placed country eyes further borrowing from main creditor China.</p>

<h2><strong>Pivot to China</strong></h2>

<p>Official data showed the Maldives' foreign debt reaching $4.038 billion last year, about 118 percent of gross domestic product, an increase of nearly $250 million from 2022.</p>

<p>Fitch had noted the government's debt servicing obligations, amounting to $409 million this year, would add to severe stress.</p>

<p>The crisis escalated over the weekend, when the Bank of Maldives Limited (BML) stopped debit card transactions and allowed a maximum monthly credit card spend of $100 for online transactions.</p>

<p>Maldivians use their cards to pay for tuition and medical treatment abroad apart from online purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-thanks-india-for-debt-relief-hopes-for-fta-with-new-delhi-745030">Maldives president thanks India for debt relief, hopes for FTA with New Delhi</a></strong></p>

<p>Muizzu told supporters late Monday the bank decision was a plot to discredit him, and accused some BML directors of being loyal to the former government.</p>

<p>"There is room to believe that this (cap on spending) was an illegal attempt to overthrow a legitimate government," Muizzu said.</p>

<p>The bank on Sunday raised forex spending limits after the Maldives Monetary Authority intervened.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives</strong></p>

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<p>Political parties have called on the government to tax hotels in foreign currency.</p>

<p>Since winning office last year, Muizzu has reoriented his nation from traditional benefactor India and towards China.</p>

<p>As of June 2023, the Export-Import Bank of China owned 25.2 percent of the Maldives' external debt and was the country's biggest single lender, Male's finance ministry figures showed.</p>


Police in the Maldives are investigating an alleged attempt to topple President Mohamed Muizzu by stirring anger over the Indian Ocean archipelago's worsening financial woes.

Police in the Maldives are investigating an alleged attempt to topple President Mohamed Muizzu by stirring anger over the Indian Ocean archipelago's worsening financial woes. Last week, the main commercial bank in the upmarket tourist destination drastically reduced the foreign exchange spending allowed for Maldivians, sparking widespread anger. Muizzu has slammed the move as an "illegal attempt" to overthrow his government, by making him unpopular and encouraging street protests. "An investigation has been launched into the alleged coup attempt," the police said in a statement late Monday. There have been no demonstrations in the capital Male, but scathing criticism of the government has erupted online. "Hundreds of 'bot' accounts have been used on social media to encourage people to take to the streets to overthrow the government and incite public unrest," police said. The bank said the changes, which they have since rescinded, came "in response to the escalating usage of foreign currency spend on cards and the static sale of foreign currency to the Bank". The international credit rating agency Fitch downgraded the Maldives in June and warned it could be headed for a sovereign default, after its foreign currency reserves dropped to $492 million in May. The downgrade came weeks after the IMF warned the Maldives against a looming "debt distress", as the small but strategically placed country eyes further borrowing from main creditor China. Pivot to China Official data showed the Maldives' foreign debt reaching $4.038 billion last year, about 118 percent of gross domestic product, an increase of nearly $250 million from 2022. Fitch had noted the government's debt servicing obligations, amounting to $409 million this year, would add to severe stress. The crisis escalated over the weekend, when the Bank of Maldives Limited (BML) stopped debit card transactions and allowed a maximum monthly credit card spend of $100 for online transactions. Maldivians use their cards to pay for tuition and medical treatment abroad apart from online purchases. Also read | Maldives president thanks India for debt relief, hopes for FTA with New Delhi Muizzu told supporters late Monday the bank decision was a plot to discredit him, and accused some BML directors of being loyal to the former government. "There is room to believe that this (cap on spending) was an illegal attempt to overthrow a legitimate government," Muizzu said. The bank on Sunday raised forex spending limits after the Maldives Monetary Authority intervened. Also watch | Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives × Political parties have called on the government to tax hotels in foreign currency. Since winning office last year, Muizzu has reoriented his nation from traditional benefactor India and towards China. As of June 2023, the Export-Import Bank of China owned 25.2 percent of the Maldives' external debt and was the country's biggest single lender, Male's finance ministry figures showed.

Maldives police probe alleged bid to topple government

<p>The Supreme Court on Tuesday (August 27) granted conditional bail to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, who was arrested earlier this year in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam. Kavitha, who was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in March, and by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) a month later, was released following a decision by a two-judge Supreme Court bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan.</p>

<p>Kavitha's arrest is part of a broader investigation into the Delhi liquor policy scam, which also implicates Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his former deputy, Manish Sisodia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sisodia, who was arrested in February last year, was granted bail earlier this month by the Supreme Court, which cited delays in the trial and the need to uphold his fundamental rights.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cbi-arrests-brs-leader-k-kavitha-over-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-710150">India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam</a></strong></p>

<p>Kavitha is the second major opposition figure to get bail in this case. While Sisodia has been released, Kejriwal remains in jail, having secured bail in the ED case but not yet in the CBI case. The Supreme Court recently refused to grant him relief.</p>

<p>In their ruling, Justices Gavai and Viswanathan noted that Kavitha, like Sisodia, had already spent over five months in jail and that the trial was unlikely to commence soon, even though the investigation had concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We find the investigation is complete. As such, custody of the appellant is not necessary... she is in jail for five months and, as observed with Sisodia, the likelihood of trial in the near future is impossible," the bench stated.</p>

<p>The court also said that the law provides special consideration for women when reviewing bail applications. They referred to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, which allows for the release of certain categories of accused individuals, including women, without meeting the standard twin requirements for bail.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: BRS leader K Kavitha remanded to ED custody till March 24</strong></p>

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<p>The Supreme Court slammed the Delhi High Court for denying Kavitha's earlier bail plea on the grounds that she is an educated woman and a former Member of Parliament, and thus not a 'vulnerable' woman. The High Court had argued that her education and status precluded her from being considered for bail under the usual provisions for women.</p>

<p>Arguing that the High Court had "totally misapplied" the relevant section of the law, the Supreme Court asserted that courts must exercise judicial discretion appropriately when deciding such matters. "The court cannot say that merely because a woman is highly educated, or an MLA, [she] should be denied the benefit of bail," the bench said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Supreme Court on Tuesday (August 27) granted conditional bail to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, who was arrested earlier this year in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (August 27) granted conditional bail to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, who was arrested earlier this year in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam. Kavitha, who was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in March, and by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) a month later, was released following a decision by a two-judge Supreme Court bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan. Kavitha's arrest is part of a broader investigation into the Delhi liquor policy scam, which also implicates Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his former deputy, Manish Sisodia. Sisodia, who was arrested in February last year, was granted bail earlier this month by the Supreme Court, which cited delays in the trial and the need to uphold his fundamental rights. Also read | India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam Kavitha is the second major opposition figure to get bail in this case. While Sisodia has been released, Kejriwal remains in jail, having secured bail in the ED case but not yet in the CBI case. The Supreme Court recently refused to grant him relief. In their ruling, Justices Gavai and Viswanathan noted that Kavitha, like Sisodia, had already spent over five months in jail and that the trial was unlikely to commence soon, even though the investigation had concluded. "We find the investigation is complete. As such, custody of the appellant is not necessary... she is in jail for five months and, as observed with Sisodia, the likelihood of trial in the near future is impossible," the bench stated. The court also said that the law provides special consideration for women when reviewing bail applications. They referred to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, which allows for the release of certain categories of accused individuals, including women, without meeting the standard twin requirements for bail. Also watch | India: BRS leader K Kavitha remanded to ED custody till March 24 × The Supreme Court slammed the Delhi High Court for denying Kavitha's earlier bail plea on the grounds that she is an educated woman and a former Member of Parliament, and thus not a 'vulnerable' woman. The High Court had argued that her education and status precluded her from being considered for bail under the usual provisions for women. Arguing that the High Court had "totally misapplied" the relevant section of the law, the Supreme Court asserted that courts must exercise judicial discretion appropriately when deciding such matters. "The court cannot say that merely because a woman is highly educated, or an MLA, [she] should be denied the benefit of bail," the bench said. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi liquor policy scam case: After Manish Sisodia, BRS leader K. Kavitha granted bail

<p>The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) saga continues as dismissed mayor Alice Guo’s companions remain under the government’s custody. The Filipino authorities reported on August 22 that Guo’s sister, Sheila, and Katherine Cassandra Ong, who is tagged in the Porac, Pampanga POGO, were under Indonesia’s custody.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two were deported to the Philippines on Thursday (August 22) afternoon, and have since been held by authorities.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (August 27), Shiela Guo confirmed before the Filipino senate that she "escaped" Philippine jurisdiction with her siblings, and dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and Wesley Guo, via a small white boat.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The mysterious 'Chinese spy' who became a mayor in Philippines</strong></p>

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<p>During the subcommittee on justice and human rights hearing, Shiela admitted to senators how they managed to leave the country after being pressed for details.</p>

<p>"We rode a boat in the sea." Shiela said in Filipino.</p>

<p>"I don’t know the place," she added.</p>

<p>"We just came from home, and somebody with a vehicle fetched us," Shiela said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senator Risa Hontiveros, who was presiding over the hearing, asked what type of vehicle they used, to which Shiela answered: a van.</p>

<p>Shiela added that she was unaware of where the vehicle took them, but they traveled for five hours, arriving at a port around midnight.</p>

<p>Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, who was also present during the hearing, asked Shiela how many were in the van.</p>

<p>"There’s three of us — Alice and Wesley," she confessed.</p>

<p>After the small white boat, Shiela said they transferred to a “fishing ship” and later transferred to a small “blue or green” boat direct to Malaysia.</p>

<p>Shiela claimed that from Malaysia, they boarded a plane to Singapore. She said she and Alice along with the dismissed Bamban mayor’s business associate Cassandra Ong later on traveled via ferry to Indonesia.</p>

<p>Shiela and Ong were apprehended by authorities at a mall in Indonesia, but Alice was not with them at the time of their arrest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) saga continues as dismissed mayor Alice Guo’s companions remain under the government’s custody. The Filipino authorities reported on August 22 that Guo’s sister, Sheila, and Katherine Cassandra Ong, who is tagged in the Porac, Pampanga POGO, were under Indonesia’s custody.

The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) saga continues as dismissed mayor Alice Guo’s companions remain under the government’s custody. The Filipino authorities reported on August 22 that Guo’s sister, Sheila, and Katherine Cassandra Ong, who is tagged in the Porac, Pampanga POGO, were under Indonesia’s custody. The two were deported to the Philippines on Thursday (August 22) afternoon, and have since been held by authorities. On Tuesday (August 27), Shiela Guo confirmed before the Filipino senate that she "escaped" Philippine jurisdiction with her siblings, and dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and Wesley Guo, via a small white boat. Also watch | The mysterious 'Chinese spy' who became a mayor in Philippines × During the subcommittee on justice and human rights hearing, Shiela admitted to senators how they managed to leave the country after being pressed for details. "We rode a boat in the sea." Shiela said in Filipino. "I don’t know the place," she added. "We just came from home, and somebody with a vehicle fetched us," Shiela said. Senator Risa Hontiveros, who was presiding over the hearing, asked what type of vehicle they used, to which Shiela answered: a van. Shiela added that she was unaware of where the vehicle took them, but they traveled for five hours, arriving at a port around midnight. Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, who was also present during the hearing, asked Shiela how many were in the van. "There’s three of us — Alice and Wesley," she confessed. After the small white boat, Shiela said they transferred to a “fishing ship” and later transferred to a small “blue or green” boat direct to Malaysia. Shiela claimed that from Malaysia, they boarded a plane to Singapore. She said she and Alice along with the dismissed Bamban mayor’s business associate Cassandra Ong later on traveled via ferry to Indonesia. Shiela and Ong were apprehended by authorities at a mall in Indonesia, but Alice was not with them at the time of their arrest. (With inputs from agencies)

'Chinese spy' who became a mayor in Philippines reveals her escape route to China

<p>China spent 7 per cent or $15 billion of its defence budget on exercises in the Western Pacific in 2023, a Taiwanese estimate cited by Reuters showed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The internal research by Taiwan’s armed forces shows that Beijing has ramped up its military presence amid rising tensions in the region.</p>

<p>China claims the self-ruled island of Taiwan as its own. Beijing has even emphasised the use of force to bring the island nation under its control. China is also locked in maritime disputes with several countries over sovereignty of large parts of West Philippine Sea and East China Sea.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-extended-conscription-and-loss-of-face-for-xi-jinping-547113">Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping</a></strong></p>

<p>"This reveals the logic of allocation of their resources," a senior Taiwan official briefed on the research was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are spending a huge amount of resources trying to gain control of the west of the First Island Chain."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Chinese Communist Party’s enormous military investment in recent years indeed has a negative impact to the peace and stability in the region, which is not conducive to global prosperity and development,," Taiwan's defence ministry told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details</strong></p>

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<p>According to Reuters,&nbsp;Taiwan’s defence ministry compiled the reports in May based on Taiwanese surveillance and intelligence on Chinese military activity in the Bohai Sea off northeast China, the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, the South China Sea, and the western Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>The reports tallied China’s naval and air missions there in 2023, then estimated how much fuel and other consumables would cost for each hour of activity. The total was 110 billion yuan ($15.3 billion), including maintenance, repairs and salaries, the reports and the officials briefed on the research said.</p>

<p>The 110 billion yuan figure amounts to about 85 per cent of Taiwan’s 2023 defence budget, Reuters report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China spent 7 per cent or $15 billion of its defence budget on exercises in the Western Pacific in 2023, a Taiwanese estimate cited by Reuters showed. The internal research by Taiwan’s armed forces shows that Beijing has ramped up its military presence amid rising tensions in the region.

China spent 7 per cent or $15 billion of its defence budget on exercises in the Western Pacific in 2023, a Taiwanese estimate cited by Reuters showed. The internal research by Taiwan’s armed forces shows that Beijing has ramped up its military presence amid rising tensions in the region. China claims the self-ruled island of Taiwan as its own. Beijing has even emphasised the use of force to bring the island nation under its control. China is also locked in maritime disputes with several countries over sovereignty of large parts of West Philippine Sea and East China Sea. Also read | Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping "This reveals the logic of allocation of their resources," a senior Taiwan official briefed on the research was quoted as saying by Reuters. "They are spending a huge amount of resources trying to gain control of the west of the First Island Chain." "The Chinese Communist Party’s enormous military investment in recent years indeed has a negative impact to the peace and stability in the region, which is not conducive to global prosperity and development,," Taiwan's defence ministry told Reuters. Also watch | US-China war over Taiwan? Xi Jinping demands 'modern system for military governance' | Details × According to Reuters, Taiwan’s defence ministry compiled the reports in May based on Taiwanese surveillance and intelligence on Chinese military activity in the Bohai Sea off northeast China, the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, the South China Sea, and the western Pacific Ocean. The reports tallied China’s naval and air missions there in 2023, then estimated how much fuel and other consumables would cost for each hour of activity. The total was 110 billion yuan ($15.3 billion), including maintenance, repairs and salaries, the reports and the officials briefed on the research said. The 110 billion yuan figure amounts to about 85 per cent of Taiwan’s 2023 defence budget, Reuters report added. (With inputs from agencies)

China spent 7 per cent of its defence budget on Pacific exercises in 2023: Report

<p>The biggest separatist assault of the decade on Pakistani assets in Balochistan has killed at least 50 members of Pakistani armed forces while 10 others are injured, WION has learnt from sources on the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday (Aug 26), a 'coordinated' spree of separatist attacks on police stations, railway lines, and vehicles on highways rocked Balochistan, a restive region bordering Iran and Afghanistan. Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) had claimed responsibility for the attacks in email to various media groups in and beyond Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BLA is the biggest of several ethnic insurgent groups that have battled the central government for decades, saying it unfairly exploits Balochistan's gas and mineral resources. It seeks the expulsion of China and independence for the province.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan police attacked by rocket: 12 policemen killed in ambush</strong></p>

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<p>Armed separatists in Balochistan along with the BLA have fought a decades-long ethnic insurgency to demand the secession of the resource-rich southwestern province.</p>

<p>Balochistan is home to several major China-led projects, including a strategic port and a gold and copper mine.</p>

<h2><strong>Balochistan separatist attacks: Casualty figures</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from 50 members of the Pakistani army, a local policeman was killed during Monday's attack while one other was injured. &nbsp;</p>

<p>WION has learnt that a total of four levies were killed and six levies were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 33 vehicles were torched and the Pakistani forces killed 13 "miscreants".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/balochistan-23-punjab-passengers-offloaded-from-bus-and-shot-dead-753321">Pakistan: 'Coordinated' separatist attacks kill over 50; Baloch Liberation Army takes responsibility</a></strong></p>

<p>The maximum number of armed personnel were killed in Lasbella, a coastal town about 700 km south of the provincial capital Quetta. In Lasbella, 40 members of Pakistani armed personnel were killed and 10 others were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Kachhi, ten members of Pakistani armed personnel were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A maximum number of civilians were killed in Mushakhel, where separatists offloaded a bus and targeted citizens hailing from Pakistan's Punjab province. A total of 23 citizens were killed in this attack and two were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Balochistan separatist attacks: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Balochistan's Gwadar is the culmination of the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) opposed by armed and unarmed Baloch leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A number of projects are under construction as part of the Special Economic Zones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least a dozen Chinese engineers have been killed in attacks in recent years which Pakistan has blamed on militant entities purportedly based out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May 2024, Pakistani authorities said they arrested 11 Islamist militants who were involved in the suicide bombing that killed five Chinese engineers in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest surge in militancy, although largely symptomatic of festering separatism in Balochistan, is also influenced against Chinese presence in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti strongly condemned Monday's incidents and expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the acts.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Chief Minister Bugti said, "The terrorists and their facilitators will not be able to escape an exemplary end."</p>

<p>Besides, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed that security forces would retaliate and bring those responsible to justice.</p>

<p>Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said, "The terrorists showed brutality by targeting innocent passengers near Musakhail. The terrorists and their facilitators will not be able to escape an exemplary end."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The biggest separatist assault of the decade on Pakistani assets in Balochistan has killed at least 50 members of Pakistani armed forces while 10 others are injured, WION has learnt from sources on the ground.

The biggest separatist assault of the decade on Pakistani assets in Balochistan has killed at least 50 members of Pakistani armed forces while 10 others are injured, WION has learnt from sources on the ground. On Monday (Aug 26), a 'coordinated' spree of separatist attacks on police stations, railway lines, and vehicles on highways rocked Balochistan, a restive region bordering Iran and Afghanistan. Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) had claimed responsibility for the attacks in email to various media groups in and beyond Pakistan. The BLA is the biggest of several ethnic insurgent groups that have battled the central government for decades, saying it unfairly exploits Balochistan's gas and mineral resources. It seeks the expulsion of China and independence for the province. Also watch | Pakistan police attacked by rocket: 12 policemen killed in ambush × Armed separatists in Balochistan along with the BLA have fought a decades-long ethnic insurgency to demand the secession of the resource-rich southwestern province. Balochistan is home to several major China-led projects, including a strategic port and a gold and copper mine. Balochistan separatist attacks: Casualty figures Apart from 50 members of the Pakistani army, a local policeman was killed during Monday's attack while one other was injured. WION has learnt that a total of four levies were killed and six levies were injured. A total of 33 vehicles were torched and the Pakistani forces killed 13 "miscreants". Also read | Pakistan: 'Coordinated' separatist attacks kill over 50; Baloch Liberation Army takes responsibility The maximum number of armed personnel were killed in Lasbella, a coastal town about 700 km south of the provincial capital Quetta. In Lasbella, 40 members of Pakistani armed personnel were killed and 10 others were injured. In Kachhi, ten members of Pakistani armed personnel were killed. A maximum number of civilians were killed in Mushakhel, where separatists offloaded a bus and targeted citizens hailing from Pakistan's Punjab province. A total of 23 citizens were killed in this attack and two were injured. Balochistan separatist attacks: What does it mean? Balochistan's Gwadar is the culmination of the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) opposed by armed and unarmed Baloch leaders. A number of projects are under construction as part of the Special Economic Zones. At least a dozen Chinese engineers have been killed in attacks in recent years which Pakistan has blamed on militant entities purportedly based out of Afghanistan. In May 2024, Pakistani authorities said they arrested 11 Islamist militants who were involved in the suicide bombing that killed five Chinese engineers in March. The latest surge in militancy, although largely symptomatic of festering separatism in Balochistan, is also influenced against Chinese presence in the region. Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti strongly condemned Monday's incidents and expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the acts. Chief Minister Bugti said, "The terrorists and their facilitators will not be able to escape an exemplary end." Besides, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed that security forces would retaliate and bring those responsible to justice. Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said, "The terrorists showed brutality by targeting innocent passengers near Musakhail. The terrorists and their facilitators will not be able to escape an exemplary end." (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Army hit hard as Balochistan separatists kill its 50 members

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Mukul Sharma

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