<p>Pakistan’s Federal investigators have summoned at least 65 individuals, including 47 people from mainstream and social media, amid an investigation into what it calls a "malicious campaign against judges of the Supreme Court", essentially for expressing their opinion on social networking platforms regarding the functioning and observations made by the incumbent chief justice of Pakistan.</p>

<p>The development comes as hundreds of social media accounts, including those affiliated with TV channels, shared slanderous content after the verdict on the PTI election symbol. These social media accounts have been allegedly involved in running anti-judiciary campaigns for months.</p>

<p>Amid the probe, the apex investigation authority served notices to 65 individuals, and hearing regarding these notices will be held on January 30 and 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The list issued by FIA includes names of prominent journalists namely Asad Ali Toor, ⁠Paras Jahanzeb, ⁠Iqrar Ul Hassan, ⁠Siddique Jan, ⁠Matiullah Jan, ⁠Syed Akbar Hussain, ⁠Danish Qamar, ⁠Saqib Bashir, ⁠Sajjad Ali Khan, ⁠Syed Haider Raza Mehdi, ⁠Shaheen Sehbai, ⁠Cyril Almeida, ⁠Rizwan Ahmed Khan, ⁠Adeel Raja, ⁠Riaz Ul Haq, ⁠Sabir Shakir, ⁠Syed Essan Hassan Naqvi, ⁠Muhammad Faheem Akhtar, ⁠Saqib Hussain, ⁠Sohail Rasheed, ⁠Nasir Mehmood, ⁠Ehtisham Naseer, ⁠Sibtain Raza, ⁠Shiraz Afzal, ⁠Muzammal Afzal, ⁠M. Afzaal Bela, ⁠Nasreen Qidwai, ⁠Jibran Nasir, ⁠Tayyab Ijaz and ⁠Aneela Munir.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-election-nomination-rejected-from-two-constituencies-675068">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies</a></strong></p>

<p>Ironically, most of the journalists who have been issued notice are those viewed as impartial voices and have in the past campaigned for the now incumbent Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa when he was being victimised under false assets beyond means charge by the Imran Khan government.</p>

<p>Article 19 of the Pakistani Constitution talks about the freedom of speech, freedom of expression and freedom of the press. Every citizen of Pakistan has the right to hold opinions, the right to express them, and the right to speech.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/imran-khan-forced-to-play-without-his-bat-676595">Imran Khan forced to play without his `bat`</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, the caretaker government had formed a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) headed by the additional director-general of the Federal Investigation Agency’s Cyber Crime Wing and including&nbsp;representatives from the Intelligence Bureau, Inter-Services Intelligence, the deputy inspector-general of Islamabad police, a representative of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and any other co-opted member.</p>

<p>JIT's terms of reference are to "determine the facts behind a malicious social media campaign attempting to tarnish the image of the honorable judges of the Supreme Court."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan</strong></p>

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<p>The committee has been tasked with identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators under relevant laws, submitting charges in appropriate courts, and proposing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.</p>

<p>Following extensive hearings last week, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, upheld the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to nullify the PTI’s electoral symbol 'bat' and deemed its intra-party polls as "unconstitutional."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The verdict faced criticism from legal experts and political analysts, with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressing concern over the judgement.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan’s Federal investigators have summoned at least 65 individuals, including 47 people from mainstream and social media, amid an investigation into what it calls a "malicious campaign against judges of the Supreme Court", essentially for expressing their opinion on social networking platforms regarding the functioning and observations made by the incumbent chief justice of Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Federal investigators have summoned at least 65 individuals, including 47 people from mainstream and social media, amid an investigation into what it calls a "malicious campaign against judges of the Supreme Court", essentially for expressing their opinion on social networking platforms regarding the functioning and observations made by the incumbent chief justice of Pakistan. The development comes as hundreds of social media accounts, including those affiliated with TV channels, shared slanderous content after the verdict on the PTI election symbol. These social media accounts have been allegedly involved in running anti-judiciary campaigns for months. Amid the probe, the apex investigation authority served notices to 65 individuals, and hearing regarding these notices will be held on January 30 and 31. The list issued by FIA includes names of prominent journalists namely Asad Ali Toor, ⁠Paras Jahanzeb, ⁠Iqrar Ul Hassan, ⁠Siddique Jan, ⁠Matiullah Jan, ⁠Syed Akbar Hussain, ⁠Danish Qamar, ⁠Saqib Bashir, ⁠Sajjad Ali Khan, ⁠Syed Haider Raza Mehdi, ⁠Shaheen Sehbai, ⁠Cyril Almeida, ⁠Rizwan Ahmed Khan, ⁠Adeel Raja, ⁠Riaz Ul Haq, ⁠Sabir Shakir, ⁠Syed Essan Hassan Naqvi, ⁠Muhammad Faheem Akhtar, ⁠Saqib Hussain, ⁠Sohail Rasheed, ⁠Nasir Mehmood, ⁠Ehtisham Naseer, ⁠Sibtain Raza, ⁠Shiraz Afzal, ⁠Muzammal Afzal, ⁠M. Afzaal Bela, ⁠Nasreen Qidwai, ⁠Jibran Nasir, ⁠Tayyab Ijaz and ⁠Aneela Munir. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies Ironically, most of the journalists who have been issued notice are those viewed as impartial voices and have in the past campaigned for the now incumbent Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa when he was being victimised under false assets beyond means charge by the Imran Khan government. Article 19 of the Pakistani Constitution talks about the freedom of speech, freedom of expression and freedom of the press. Every citizen of Pakistan has the right to hold opinions, the right to express them, and the right to speech. Also read | Imran Khan forced to play without his `bat` Earlier, the caretaker government had formed a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) headed by the additional director-general of the Federal Investigation Agency’s Cyber Crime Wing and including representatives from the Intelligence Bureau, Inter-Services Intelligence, the deputy inspector-general of Islamabad police, a representative of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and any other co-opted member. JIT's terms of reference are to "determine the facts behind a malicious social media campaign attempting to tarnish the image of the honorable judges of the Supreme Court." Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan × The committee has been tasked with identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators under relevant laws, submitting charges in appropriate courts, and proposing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Following extensive hearings last week, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, upheld the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to nullify the PTI’s electoral symbol 'bat' and deemed its intra-party polls as "unconstitutional." The verdict faced criticism from legal experts and political analysts, with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressing concern over the judgement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s Federal Investigator summons journalists for sharing opinion on Chief Justice

<p>The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations.</p>

<p>Now it has emerged that dozens of death row prisoners in Alabama may soon face the nitrogen gas route for their execution.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713">Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US</a></strong></p>

<p>The 58-year-old Smith, who spent over three decades on death row for the 1988 murder-for-hire of a pastor's wife, faced a 22-minute execution that drew criticism for its apparent brutality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Witnesses, including his spiritual adviser Reverend Jeff Hood, described the scene as a 'horror show'.&nbsp;Hood said that even prison staff couldn't conceal their shock at the distressing display, with audible gasps from onlookers as Smith struggled to breathe.</p>

<h2><strong>Nitrogen gas execution: Dozens of&nbsp;death row prisoners may follow the route</strong></h2>

<p>According to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, what happened with Kenneth Eugene Smith "was textbook" form of execution when done with Nitrogen gas.</p>

<p>“As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one. It’s the method that Kenneth Smith ultimately chose, along with 43 other death row inmates in our state,” Marshall was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p>"I now suspect many states will follow."</p>

<p>The attorney general in a purported message to other US states, said: "Alabama has done it, and now so can you," Marshall said. "And we stand ready to assist you in implementing this method in your states."</p>

<h2><strong>US nitrogen gas execution: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Reverend Hood recounted the prison authorities' assurances that the nitrogen hypoxia execution would be nearly instantaneous, quick, easy, and painless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But&nbsp;the reality unfolded quite differently. "What we saw last night was minutes, minutes, and minutes of a horror show," Hood was quoted as saying by the New York Post.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution</strong></p>

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<p>Smith's contorted movements during the execution were likened to a "fish out of water, flapping over and over again," creating a lasting impact on those who witnessed the event.</p>

<p>The White House expressed deep concern over the execution, stating it was "deeply troubled" by the unfolding events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UN human rights chief Volker Turk, the European Union, and various civil liberties groups also raised alarms about the method employed in Smith's execution, referring to it as an "untested human experiment."</p>

<p>The nitrogen hypoxia execution marks a significant departure from the conventional lethal injection method, forcing the prisoner to breathe nitrogen instead of oxygen through a respirator mask.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the bottomline?</strong></h2>

<p>The international community's condemnation suggests that the execution method will likely face further scrutiny, reigniting the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of capital punishment in the United States.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations.

The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations. Now it has emerged that dozens of death row prisoners in Alabama may soon face the nitrogen gas route for their execution. Also read | Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US The 58-year-old Smith, who spent over three decades on death row for the 1988 murder-for-hire of a pastor's wife, faced a 22-minute execution that drew criticism for its apparent brutality. Witnesses, including his spiritual adviser Reverend Jeff Hood, described the scene as a 'horror show'. Hood said that even prison staff couldn't conceal their shock at the distressing display, with audible gasps from onlookers as Smith struggled to breathe. Nitrogen gas execution: Dozens of death row prisoners may follow the route According to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, what happened with Kenneth Eugene Smith "was textbook" form of execution when done with Nitrogen gas. “As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one. It’s the method that Kenneth Smith ultimately chose, along with 43 other death row inmates in our state,” Marshall was quoted as saying by CNN. "I now suspect many states will follow." The attorney general in a purported message to other US states, said: "Alabama has done it, and now so can you," Marshall said. "And we stand ready to assist you in implementing this method in your states." US nitrogen gas execution: What happened? Reverend Hood recounted the prison authorities' assurances that the nitrogen hypoxia execution would be nearly instantaneous, quick, easy, and painless. But the reality unfolded quite differently. "What we saw last night was minutes, minutes, and minutes of a horror show," Hood was quoted as saying by the New York Post. Also watch | US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution × Smith's contorted movements during the execution were likened to a "fish out of water, flapping over and over again," creating a lasting impact on those who witnessed the event. The White House expressed deep concern over the execution, stating it was "deeply troubled" by the unfolding events. UN human rights chief Volker Turk, the European Union, and various civil liberties groups also raised alarms about the method employed in Smith's execution, referring to it as an "untested human experiment." The nitrogen hypoxia execution marks a significant departure from the conventional lethal injection method, forcing the prisoner to breathe nitrogen instead of oxygen through a respirator mask. What is the bottomline? The international community's condemnation suggests that the execution method will likely face further scrutiny, reigniting the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of capital punishment in the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama Nitrogen Gas execution: More states to follow lethal route for death sentence

<p>Afghanistan's&nbsp;Taliban government has completed&nbsp;the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for&nbsp;increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour.</p>

<p>However, analysts predict that Beijing is likely to approach the situation cautiously amid security threats posed by terrorists and separatists in its restive Xinjiang province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newly constructed 50 km (31 mile) Little Pamir Road in Badakhshan province, built with an estimated cost of 370 million Afghanis (US$5.07 million), was initially conceived by the former US-backed government to attract Chinese investment in Afghanistan's mining resources.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;China seeks to profile Afghanistan citizens?</b></p>

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<p>Construction of the road began in May 2021 but was suspended shortly. The Taliban regained control of the country three months later after the United States completed its military withdrawal.</p>

<p>According to Mohammad Ayub Khalid, the Taliban governor of Badakhshan, the 5-meter-wide road was completed around January 15.</p>

<p>Khalid stated that asphalt work would commence shortly.</p>

<p>While specific details about the road's location were not disclosed, local sources cited by the <em>South China Morning Post</em> suggest it extends to the Chinese border via the Wakhjir Pass in the Wakhan Corridor, a challenging mountainous region.</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban's extending strategic outreach to Afghanistan's neighbours</strong></h2>

<p>The former Afghan government envisioned this road as a link to China's extensive network, aiming to boost commerce, imports, exports, and cross-border transit.</p>

<p>The Taliban, however, sees it as a potential strategic corridor connecting Afghanistan not only with China but also with Pakistan and Tajikistan.</p>

<p>Despite the symbolic importance for the Taliban, experts cited by&nbsp;the media&nbsp;believe the road holds little economic interest for Beijing.</p>

<p>Zhu Yongbiao, a professor at Lanzhou University, told the <em>South China Morning Post</em>&nbsp;that the project primarily serves as a demonstration of the Taliban's governance capabilities, lacking practical access and economic value.</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban-China ties: Focus on Beijing's security concerns</strong></h2>

<p>Security concerns play a pivotal role in China's cautious approach to the Taliban, particularly in the Wakhjir Pass, widely deemed&nbsp;a major counterterrorism front line between Afghan militants and China's Xinjiang region.</p>

<p>China, worried about terrorism spilling into Xinjiang, has refrained from establishing customs facilities in the area and has only deployed border guards along the pass.</p>

<p>The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a separatist group founded by Uygur militants, further complicates the situation.</p>

<p>With an estimated 500 fighters in northern Afghanistan, primarily in Badakhshan province, ETIM has been linked to violent attacks in Xinjiang.</p>

<p>China has consistently urged the Taliban to intensify efforts against terrorism while expressing intentions to enhance trade ties with Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Despite hosting senior Taliban officials and establishing diplomatic relations, China remains cautious about the potential security risks associated with opening up the Wakhan Corridor.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Afghanistan's Taliban government has completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour.

Afghanistan's Taliban government has completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour. However, analysts predict that Beijing is likely to approach the situation cautiously amid security threats posed by terrorists and separatists in its restive Xinjiang province. The newly constructed 50 km (31 mile) Little Pamir Road in Badakhshan province, built with an estimated cost of 370 million Afghanis (US$5.07 million), was initially conceived by the former US-backed government to attract Chinese investment in Afghanistan's mining resources. Also watch | China seeks to profile Afghanistan citizens? × Construction of the road began in May 2021 but was suspended shortly. The Taliban regained control of the country three months later after the United States completed its military withdrawal. According to Mohammad Ayub Khalid, the Taliban governor of Badakhshan, the 5-meter-wide road was completed around January 15. Khalid stated that asphalt work would commence shortly. While specific details about the road's location were not disclosed, local sources cited by the South China Morning Post suggest it extends to the Chinese border via the Wakhjir Pass in the Wakhan Corridor, a challenging mountainous region. Taliban's extending strategic outreach to Afghanistan's neighbours The former Afghan government envisioned this road as a link to China's extensive network, aiming to boost commerce, imports, exports, and cross-border transit. The Taliban, however, sees it as a potential strategic corridor connecting Afghanistan not only with China but also with Pakistan and Tajikistan. Despite the symbolic importance for the Taliban, experts cited by the media believe the road holds little economic interest for Beijing. Zhu Yongbiao, a professor at Lanzhou University, told the South China Morning Post that the project primarily serves as a demonstration of the Taliban's governance capabilities, lacking practical access and economic value. Taliban-China ties: Focus on Beijing's security concerns Security concerns play a pivotal role in China's cautious approach to the Taliban, particularly in the Wakhjir Pass, widely deemed a major counterterrorism front line between Afghan militants and China's Xinjiang region. China, worried about terrorism spilling into Xinjiang, has refrained from establishing customs facilities in the area and has only deployed border guards along the pass. The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a separatist group founded by Uygur militants, further complicates the situation. With an estimated 500 fighters in northern Afghanistan, primarily in Badakhshan province, ETIM has been linked to violent attacks in Xinjiang. China has consistently urged the Taliban to intensify efforts against terrorism while expressing intentions to enhance trade ties with Afghanistan. Despite hosting senior Taliban officials and establishing diplomatic relations, China remains cautious about the potential security risks associated with opening up the Wakhan Corridor. (With inputs from agencies)

China fails to strike connectivity goal with Taliban amid security threats in Xinjiang: Report

<p>The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).</p>

<p>Kumar, the chief minister of one of India's poorest but also politically consequential Bihar state in eastern India, is the leader of the Janata Dal (United) party. At the time of filing this report, he remains&nbsp;in alliance with former state chief minister and central railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kumar's JD(U) and Yadav's (RJD) are also part of the Indian National Congress-led Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.), a bloc with many regional parties forged by the Congress to de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power in the general elections in the coming spring.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Multiple media publications have reported that Nitish Kumar is set to join hands with the BJP to reconstitute the state government in Bihar. This would come as&nbsp;a major jolt to the Congress-led I.N.D.I.A. political bloc ahead of national elections later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP?</strong></p>

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<p>Bihar constitutes 40 seats in the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha. In the 2019 general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won an impressive&nbsp;39 seats. Notably, Nitish Kumar led JD(U) was in alliance with the PM Modi's&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019. The BJP won 17, while JD(U) took 16 and another NDA partner Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) won 6 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How does Nitish on BJP's side harm 'I.N.D.I.A' politically?</strong></h2>

<p>In a state widely divided on caste lines, Nitish Kumar's JD(U) along with Lalu Prasad's RJD have been popular among Other Backward Castes (OBCs), Extremely Backward Castes (EBCs) as well as the Muslims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP, however, has made inroads among these communities in Bihar with central welfare programs. But together, the JD(U), RJD along with the Congress party&nbsp;claim to helm over a sizeable voter base that they believe&nbsp;would&nbsp;halt&nbsp;the BJP's election juggernaut in Bihar in the 2024 elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Administrative rejig ahead of likely change of guard in Patna</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Bihar government executed a major administrative reshuffle on Friday (Jan 26), transferring key officers across various services. A total of 22 Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 79 Indian Police Service (IPS), and 45 Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) officers were affected by the reshuffling.</p>

<p>Among the notable changes, Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh, a 2010-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as special secretary in the chief minister's secretariat. This move follows Singh's recent involvement in a publicised dispute with the state education department over the closure of schools in Patna due to cold wave conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shirsat Kapil Ashok, a 2011-batch IAS officer currently serving as Inspector General (prisons), will take over as the new Patna DM.</p>

<p>The Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) witnessed changes as well, with 45 officers receiving new postings.</p>

<p>This significant administrative shuffle comes on the heels of a similar move on January 23, where 29 senior IAS officers were reassigned to new roles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior official from the General Administration Department&nbsp;told news agency Press Trust of India that these transfers and postings are part of routine exercises.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Kumar, the chief minister of one of India's poorest but also politically consequential Bihar state in eastern India, is the leader of the Janata Dal (United) party. At the time of filing this report, he remains in alliance with former state chief minister and central railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Kumar's JD(U) and Yadav's (RJD) are also part of the Indian National Congress-led Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.), a bloc with many regional parties forged by the Congress to de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power in the general elections in the coming spring. Multiple media publications have reported that Nitish Kumar is set to join hands with the BJP to reconstitute the state government in Bihar. This would come as a major jolt to the Congress-led I.N.D.I.A. political bloc ahead of national elections later this year. Also watch | India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP? × Bihar constitutes 40 seats in the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha. In the 2019 general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won an impressive 39 seats. Notably, Nitish Kumar led JD(U) was in alliance with the PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019. The BJP won 17, while JD(U) took 16 and another NDA partner Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) won 6 seats. How does Nitish on BJP's side harm 'I.N.D.I.A' politically? In a state widely divided on caste lines, Nitish Kumar's JD(U) along with Lalu Prasad's RJD have been popular among Other Backward Castes (OBCs), Extremely Backward Castes (EBCs) as well as the Muslims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP, however, has made inroads among these communities in Bihar with central welfare programs. But together, the JD(U), RJD along with the Congress party claim to helm over a sizeable voter base that they believe would halt the BJP's election juggernaut in Bihar in the 2024 elections. Administrative rejig ahead of likely change of guard in Patna Meanwhile, the Bihar government executed a major administrative reshuffle on Friday (Jan 26), transferring key officers across various services. A total of 22 Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 79 Indian Police Service (IPS), and 45 Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) officers were affected by the reshuffling. Among the notable changes, Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh, a 2010-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as special secretary in the chief minister's secretariat. This move follows Singh's recent involvement in a publicised dispute with the state education department over the closure of schools in Patna due to cold wave conditions. Shirsat Kapil Ashok, a 2011-batch IAS officer currently serving as Inspector General (prisons), will take over as the new Patna DM. The Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) witnessed changes as well, with 45 officers receiving new postings. This significant administrative shuffle comes on the heels of a similar move on January 23, where 29 senior IAS officers were reassigned to new roles. A senior official from the General Administration Department told news agency Press Trust of India that these transfers and postings are part of routine exercises. (With inputs from agencies)

'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports

<p>The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is witnessing India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation.</p>

<p>In other news,&nbsp;Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas.</p>

<p>In Australia, thousands of protesters marked the country's&nbsp;National Day by taking out 'Invasion Day' rallies to show solidarity with the indigenous community of the country</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/75th-republic-day-2024-live-parade-speech-pm-modi-france-president-emmanuel-and-droupadi-murmu-news-26-january-683706"><strong>75th Republic Day 2024 updates: Indian PM Modi extends wishes ahead of parade</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/26/408033-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>India marks its Republic Day every year on January 26. This year the country celebrates its 75th Republic Day on Friday. French President Emmanuel Macron landed in the national capital, New Delhi to participate as the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713"><strong>In a first, Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/04/403565-new-wion-2024-01-04t124341616.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas on Friday (Jan 26).&nbsp;Kenneth Smith, found guilty in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, was&nbsp;an unusual inmate who endured an unsuccessful execution in November 2022. Alabama authorities halted his lethal injection as they grappled for hours to properly insert the intravenous needle.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-briefly-testifies-at-jean-carroll-defamation-trial-in-new-york-683720"><strong>Donald Trump briefly testifies at Jean Carroll defamation trial in New York</strong></a></p>

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<p>Former United States president and current presidential frontrunner Donald Trump gave a brief testimony on Thursday (Jan 25) in author E Jean Carroll's second defamation trial against him. According to a report by CNN, Trump's testimony in a New York court lasted for less than five minutes as he sought to avoid a multimillion-dollar jury verdict against him in the civil defamation trial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protesters-attend-invasion-day-rallies-to-protest-australia-day-holiday-683741"><strong>Protesters attend 'Invasion Day' rallies to oppose Australia Day holiday</strong></a></p>

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<p>Thousands of protesters marked Australia's National Day by taking out 'Invasion Day' rallies to show solidarity with the indigenous community of the country whilst raising calls to drop celebrations or move the date.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>South Korean ruling party MP Bae Hyun-jin attacked in street</strong></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-lebron-james-creates-history-with-record-20th-nba-all-star-game-nomination-683737"><strong>LeBron James creates history with record 20th NBA All-Star game nomination</strong></a></p>

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<p>Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was voted into the NBA All-Star Game for a record 20th time on Thursday, named among 10 starters for next month's 73rd All-Star contest.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is witnessing India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation.

The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is witnessing India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation. In other news, Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas. In Australia, thousands of protesters marked the country's National Day by taking out 'Invasion Day' rallies to show solidarity with the indigenous community of the country Click here to read more: 75th Republic Day 2024 updates: Indian PM Modi extends wishes ahead of parade India marks its Republic Day every year on January 26. This year the country celebrates its 75th Republic Day on Friday. French President Emmanuel Macron landed in the national capital, New Delhi to participate as the chief guest at the Republic Day parade. In a first, Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas on Friday (Jan 26). Kenneth Smith, found guilty in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, was an unusual inmate who endured an unsuccessful execution in November 2022. Alabama authorities halted his lethal injection as they grappled for hours to properly insert the intravenous needle. Donald Trump briefly testifies at Jean Carroll defamation trial in New York Former United States president and current presidential frontrunner Donald Trump gave a brief testimony on Thursday (Jan 25) in author E Jean Carroll's second defamation trial against him. According to a report by CNN, Trump's testimony in a New York court lasted for less than five minutes as he sought to avoid a multimillion-dollar jury verdict against him in the civil defamation trial. Protesters attend 'Invasion Day' rallies to oppose Australia Day holiday Thousands of protesters marked Australia's National Day by taking out 'Invasion Day' rallies to show solidarity with the indigenous community of the country whilst raising calls to drop celebrations or move the date. South Korean ruling party MP Bae Hyun-jin attacked in street × LeBron James creates history with record 20th NBA All-Star game nomination Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was voted into the NBA All-Star Game for a record 20th time on Thursday, named among 10 starters for next month's 73rd All-Star contest.

Morning brief: Indian Republic's 75th march forward, Australians mark 'Invasion Day', and more

<p>Japan Aerospace Exploration Company (JAXA) has unveiled the first image of its lunar lander on the moon's surface, which showed that the lander had an unusual upside-down landing. The spacecraft encountered a setback with an "abnormality in the main engine" when it was merely 50 metres above the lunar surface. Subsequently, an unexpected change in landing orientation occurred, JAXA said in an update on Thursday (Jan 25).</p>

<h2><strong>Japan's Moon landing still a distinct achievement</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the anomaly affecting the spacecraft's ability to charge its solar panels due to misalignment with the sun, Japan has become the fifth nation to successfully execute a soft landing on the moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The onboard software of the SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) mission continued to autonomously guide the descent autonomously, resulting in a landing speed below the design range at around 1.4 metres per second.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-unprecedented-pinpoint-landing-japan-says-its-moon-landing-was-within-100-metres-of-target-683429">An 'unprecedented' pinpoint landing: Japan says its Moon landing was within 100 metres of target</a></strong></p>

<p>The lander, however, ended up just 55 metres east of the original target landing site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JAXA officials declared the primary objective of demonstrating pinpoint landing technology within a 100-metre accuracy range as a success.</p>

<p>Earlier in the week, JAXA announced the planned powerdown of the spacecraft on the lunar surface to prevent the over-discharge of batteries connected to the misaligned solar cells.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency now awaits a change in the sun's direction, anticipating the potential for power generation once the solar cells are properly oriented.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan's 'Moon Sniper' achieves historic lunar landing</strong></p>

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<p>Accompanying the lander were two rovers, with the Lunar Exploration Vehicle-2, or SORA-Q, responsible for capturing the first image.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rovers were deployed following the lunar touchdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JAXA officials are actively investigating the cause of the main engine malfunction and promise updates as the investigation progresses. A crucial juncture in the mission's recovery will occur in approximately one week when the sun's beams shift westward towards the lander's solar cells.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan Aerospace Exploration Company (JAXA) has unveiled the first image of its lunar lander on the moon's surface, which showed that the lander had an unusual upside-down landing.

Japan Aerospace Exploration Company (JAXA) has unveiled the first image of its lunar lander on the moon's surface, which showed that the lander had an unusual upside-down landing. The spacecraft encountered a setback with an "abnormality in the main engine" when it was merely 50 metres above the lunar surface. Subsequently, an unexpected change in landing orientation occurred, JAXA said in an update on Thursday (Jan 25). Japan's Moon landing still a distinct achievement Despite the anomaly affecting the spacecraft's ability to charge its solar panels due to misalignment with the sun, Japan has become the fifth nation to successfully execute a soft landing on the moon. The onboard software of the SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) mission continued to autonomously guide the descent autonomously, resulting in a landing speed below the design range at around 1.4 metres per second. Also read | An 'unprecedented' pinpoint landing: Japan says its Moon landing was within 100 metres of target The lander, however, ended up just 55 metres east of the original target landing site. JAXA officials declared the primary objective of demonstrating pinpoint landing technology within a 100-metre accuracy range as a success. Earlier in the week, JAXA announced the planned powerdown of the spacecraft on the lunar surface to prevent the over-discharge of batteries connected to the misaligned solar cells. The agency now awaits a change in the sun's direction, anticipating the potential for power generation once the solar cells are properly oriented. Also watch | Japan's 'Moon Sniper' achieves historic lunar landing × Accompanying the lander were two rovers, with the Lunar Exploration Vehicle-2, or SORA-Q, responsible for capturing the first image. The rovers were deployed following the lunar touchdown. JAXA officials are actively investigating the cause of the main engine malfunction and promise updates as the investigation progresses. A crucial juncture in the mission's recovery will occur in approximately one week when the sun's beams shift westward towards the lander's solar cells. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's successful Moon landing was 'upside down', quite literally

<p>The families of three Kansas City Chiefs fans are grappling with the sudden and mysterious deaths of their loved ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The victims, Ricky Johnson (38),&nbsp;Clayton McGeeney (36)&nbsp;and David Harrington&nbsp;(37)&nbsp;were found dead on January 9, two days after they had gathered at their friend Jordan Willis' home to watch a Chiefs game against the Los Angeles Chargers.</p>

<p>The father of one of the victims, Jon Harrington, has voiced suspicions about the friend Jordan Willis' involvement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-mysterious-deaths-of-3-kansas-city-chiefs-fans-found-frozen-outside-friends-home-683287">Explained: Mysterious deaths of three football fans found ‘frozen’ in friend’s backyard</a></strong></p>

<p>Willis, however, claims he did not know about the bodies outside his home until the police arrived days later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harrington's parents, however, say they do not believe Willis' account and have instead pointed to alleged foul play in the deaths of the "perfectly healthy men."</p>

<h2><strong>What David Harrington's family is saying?</strong></h2>

<p>Harrington's father suggests that the trio might have uncovered something they shouldn't have and Willis took drastic measures to silence them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"[Harrington's mother] and I are both convinced that Jordan Willis played a part in this somehow," the elder Harrington told Fox News on Thursday. "We just haven’t figured out how yet... What else could it be? Perfectly healthy men don’t just drop off the face of the earth," he further said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Italy court gives verdict on Pakistani teen's murder | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>"There were four of you in the house and now three of them are dead and you’re not. That doesn’t add up," the father continued.</p>

<p>"I’m thinking that he, the three of them learned something or saw something that they shouldn’t have seen, and he decided ‘well, I need to get rid of you now.’ Friends or not," he added.</p>

<p>Despite Harrington's father's sinister theory, the Platte County prosecutor's office is expected to treat the case as a drug overdose, a notion that Harrington's father deems oversimplified.</p>

<p>Kansas City Police, however, say that Willis is not a suspect and is facing no criminal charges. Authorities maintain that the case is not under investigation as a homicide.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The families of three Kansas City Chiefs fans are grappling with the sudden and mysterious deaths of their loved ones. The victims, Ricky Johnson (38), Clayton McGeeney (36) and David Harrington (37) were found dead on January 9, two days after they had gathered at their friend Jordan Willis' home to watch a Chiefs game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The families of three Kansas City Chiefs fans are grappling with the sudden and mysterious deaths of their loved ones. The victims, Ricky Johnson (38), Clayton McGeeney (36) and David Harrington (37) were found dead on January 9, two days after they had gathered at their friend Jordan Willis' home to watch a Chiefs game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The father of one of the victims, Jon Harrington, has voiced suspicions about the friend Jordan Willis' involvement. Also read | Explained: Mysterious deaths of three football fans found ‘frozen’ in friend’s backyard Willis, however, claims he did not know about the bodies outside his home until the police arrived days later. Harrington's parents, however, say they do not believe Willis' account and have instead pointed to alleged foul play in the deaths of the "perfectly healthy men." What David Harrington's family is saying? Harrington's father suggests that the trio might have uncovered something they shouldn't have and Willis took drastic measures to silence them. "[Harrington's mother] and I are both convinced that Jordan Willis played a part in this somehow," the elder Harrington told Fox News on Thursday. "We just haven’t figured out how yet... What else could it be? Perfectly healthy men don’t just drop off the face of the earth," he further said. Also watch | Italy court gives verdict on Pakistani teen's murder | World News | WION × "There were four of you in the house and now three of them are dead and you’re not. That doesn’t add up," the father continued. "I’m thinking that he, the three of them learned something or saw something that they shouldn’t have seen, and he decided ‘well, I need to get rid of you now.’ Friends or not," he added. Despite Harrington's father's sinister theory, the Platte County prosecutor's office is expected to treat the case as a drug overdose, a notion that Harrington's father deems oversimplified. Kansas City Police, however, say that Willis is not a suspect and is facing no criminal charges. Authorities maintain that the case is not under investigation as a homicide. (With inputs from agencies)

Kansas City Chiefs fans death: Mystery deepens as parents allege foul play

<p>India Republic Day 2024: The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is set to witness India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But older than the ambition of today's free India is the history of the Indian Army's senior-most regiment: The President's Bodyguard (PBG). This Republic Day is special for this elite regiment as the '<em>Angrakshak</em>' has completed 250 years of service since its raising in 1773.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/republic-day-parade-2024-many-firsts-at-this-years-parade-1706188866271">Republic Day Parade 2024: Many Firsts At This Year's Parade</a></strong></p>

<p>Add to this the fact that French President Emmanuel Macron is presiding as the chief guest. This is the sixth time that a French leader is being accorded the honour of being New Delhi's chief guest during Republic Day celebrations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The arrival of the President of India and her French counterpart will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard – ‘Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak’," according to an official readout.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi &amp; President Macron hold joint roadshow in India's Jaipur city</strong></p>

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<p>The two Presidents will arrive in the 'Traditional Buggy', the practice which is making a comeback after a gap of 40 years.</p>

<p>Just on November 16, 2023, India's President Droupadi Murmu inspected a guard of honour at the sestercentennial (250th anniversary) celebrations of the elite regiment. President Murmu presented the President's Standard of Bodyguard and Regimental Standard to the regiment at Rashtrapati Bhavan.</p>

<p>On January 26, 2024, the elite household cavalry regiment&nbsp;is set to represent the Indian Republic's glory on&nbsp;Kartavya Path.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>President's Bodyguard: History and legacy</strong></h2>

<p>The President's Bodyguard is the successor to the Governor General's Bodyguard of the Presidency armies and the British Indian Army raised in September 1773. The troopers were from a handpicked 50 troopers of the Moghal Horse, itself raised in 1760 by local sardars from present-day Punjab and Haryana in India and Punjab province of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the same year, Maharaja Chait Singh of Benares provided another 50 troopers, raising the strength of the unit to 100. PBG's current strength in the Indian Army is&nbsp;222 personnel (4 officers, 20 Junior Commissioned Officers and&nbsp;198 soldiers) and is part of the 50th Parachute Brigade. With&nbsp;Bharat Mata Ki Jai (Victory to Mother India) as its motto, the PBGs march to the tunes of <em>Saare Jahan Se Achha.</em></p>

<p>During the partition of India, the British Indian Army was divided 2:1 between the Dominions of India and Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muslim personnel of the regiment were transferred to the Pakistan Army.</p>

<p>The rest of the regiment, comprising the Sikhs, Jats, and Rajputs remained with the Indian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fate of the Viceroy's gold-plated buggy&nbsp;was decided by a coin toss between Colonel Thakur Govind Singh (India) and Sahabzada Yaqub Khan (Pakistan) and India won the buggy.</p>

<p>The regiment was renamed President's Bodyguard when India became a republic on January 26, 1950.</p>


India Republic Day 2024: The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is set to witness India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation.

India Republic Day 2024: The Indian Republic turned 75 on Jan 26, 2024, since independent India transitioned into a parliamentary democracy in 1950. New Delhi's Kartavya Path is set to witness India's now-achievable ambition to be a 'developed' nation with women's role in the world's fifth largest economy being pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government as the accelerating factor for the country's years forward to transition from a developing to a developed nation. But older than the ambition of today's free India is the history of the Indian Army's senior-most regiment: The President's Bodyguard (PBG). This Republic Day is special for this elite regiment as the 'Angrakshak' has completed 250 years of service since its raising in 1773. Also read | Republic Day Parade 2024: Many Firsts At This Year's Parade Add to this the fact that French President Emmanuel Macron is presiding as the chief guest. This is the sixth time that a French leader is being accorded the honour of being New Delhi's chief guest during Republic Day celebrations. "The arrival of the President of India and her French counterpart will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard – ‘Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak’," according to an official readout. Also watch | PM Modi & President Macron hold joint roadshow in India's Jaipur city × The two Presidents will arrive in the 'Traditional Buggy', the practice which is making a comeback after a gap of 40 years. Just on November 16, 2023, India's President Droupadi Murmu inspected a guard of honour at the sestercentennial (250th anniversary) celebrations of the elite regiment. President Murmu presented the President's Standard of Bodyguard and Regimental Standard to the regiment at Rashtrapati Bhavan. On January 26, 2024, the elite household cavalry regiment is set to represent the Indian Republic's glory on Kartavya Path. President's Bodyguard: History and legacy The President's Bodyguard is the successor to the Governor General's Bodyguard of the Presidency armies and the British Indian Army raised in September 1773. The troopers were from a handpicked 50 troopers of the Moghal Horse, itself raised in 1760 by local sardars from present-day Punjab and Haryana in India and Punjab province of Pakistan. In the same year, Maharaja Chait Singh of Benares provided another 50 troopers, raising the strength of the unit to 100. PBG's current strength in the Indian Army is 222 personnel (4 officers, 20 Junior Commissioned Officers and 198 soldiers) and is part of the 50th Parachute Brigade. With Bharat Mata Ki Jai (Victory to Mother India) as its motto, the PBGs march to the tunes of Saare Jahan Se Achha. During the partition of India, the British Indian Army was divided 2:1 between the Dominions of India and Pakistan. Muslim personnel of the regiment were transferred to the Pakistan Army. The rest of the regiment, comprising the Sikhs, Jats, and Rajputs remained with the Indian Army. The fate of the Viceroy's gold-plated buggy was decided by a coin toss between Colonel Thakur Govind Singh (India) and Sahabzada Yaqub Khan (Pakistan) and India won the buggy. The regiment was renamed President's Bodyguard when India became a republic on January 26, 1950.

Republic Day 2024: At 250, President's Bodyguard regiment set to embody Republic's glory

<p>Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken on Jan 17 had said that while Washington is always open for talks, "in this moment", he doesn't see it happening.</p>

<p>"There has to be a willingness on the part of Russia to engage, to negotiate in good faith, based on the basic principles that have been challenged by its aggression — territorial integrity, sovereignty, independence," Blinken said.</p>

<p>According to a&nbsp;Bloomberg report that cited&nbsp;two people close to the Kremlin, Putin has indicated to Washington through indirect channels that he is open to discussions, which&nbsp;may potentially include future security arrangements for Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UNSC Meet: Sergey Lavrov rules out peace plans supported by Kyiv and West</strong></p>

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<p>As the Russia-Ukraine war heads into its third year, the US officials that Bloomberg cited said they are not aware of Moscow's supposed overtures for a conclusive end of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's past efforts to end war in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>In June 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Moscow to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that in the spring of 2022, during the initial weeks of war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace in June 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a></strong></p>

<p>Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.</p>

<p>Ukraine under President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to recapture lost territories and has expressed unwillingness to end the war with nothing short of full withdrawal by Russian forces as per the status quo before February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What amends Putin is reportedly willing to make for peace this time?</strong></h2>

<p>Putin, according to Kremlin insiders cited by Bloomberg, may be willing to consider dropping an insistence on neutral status for Ukraine and "even ultimately abandon opposition to eventual NATO membership". This, the report added, may potentially come once Ukraine gives up the claim on Ukrainian land captured by Russian forces since February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address right before launching war on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin had reasoned NATO's eastward expansion towards Russian borders as one of the defining reasons behind Moscow's&nbsp;offensive in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"We are unaware of the shifts in Russia’s position described," US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will be up to Ukraine to decide whether, when, and how to negotiate with Russia."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States.

Days after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US is "always open" to talks with Russia, it has emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking for ways to engage with the United States. Blinken on Jan 17 had said that while Washington is always open for talks, "in this moment", he doesn't see it happening. "There has to be a willingness on the part of Russia to engage, to negotiate in good faith, based on the basic principles that have been challenged by its aggression — territorial integrity, sovereignty, independence," Blinken said. According to a Bloomberg report that cited two people close to the Kremlin, Putin has indicated to Washington through indirect channels that he is open to discussions, which may potentially include future security arrangements for Ukraine. Also watch | UNSC Meet: Sergey Lavrov rules out peace plans supported by Kyiv and West × As the Russia-Ukraine war heads into its third year, the US officials that Bloomberg cited said they are not aware of Moscow's supposed overtures for a conclusive end of the war in Ukraine. Russia's past efforts to end war in Ukraine In June 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Moscow to end the ongoing war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' shortly after that in the spring of 2022, during the initial weeks of war in Ukraine. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at St. Petersberg's historic Konstantinovsky Palace in June 2023. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Ukraine under President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to recapture lost territories and has expressed unwillingness to end the war with nothing short of full withdrawal by Russian forces as per the status quo before February 2022. What amends Putin is reportedly willing to make for peace this time? Putin, according to Kremlin insiders cited by Bloomberg, may be willing to consider dropping an insistence on neutral status for Ukraine and "even ultimately abandon opposition to eventual NATO membership". This, the report added, may potentially come once Ukraine gives up the claim on Ukrainian land captured by Russian forces since February 2022. In a televised address right before launching war on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin had reasoned NATO's eastward expansion towards Russian borders as one of the defining reasons behind Moscow's offensive in Ukraine. "We are unaware of the shifts in Russia’s position described," US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said. "It will be up to Ukraine to decide whether, when, and how to negotiate with Russia." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Putin willing to let Ukraine join NATO? New report indicates renewed peace effort

<p><strong>India-Republic Day Parade 2024:</strong> The sun was up on the&nbsp;morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950. With French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, the nation began its show of might on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (women power) and 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India), the Kartavya Path witnessed the might of the All-women Tri-Services contingent comprising Agniveer troops.</p>

<p>This was the first time a women soldiers contingent representing all three services&nbsp;marched&nbsp;in the Republic Day with pride. The motto of the Tri-Service women contingent is 'Seva Tatha Sahayata'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-macron-says-france-will-welcome-30000-indian-students-by-2030-683750">France will welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, President Macron announces</a></strong></p>

<p>The contingent comprised of women soldiers from the Corps of Military Police of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, President Droupadi Murmu commenced the celebrations of the 75th Republic Day&nbsp;by unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path.</p>

<h2><strong>Lord Ram and Uttar Pradesh tableau</strong></h2>

<p>A child depicted as&nbsp;Lord Ram was showcased in Uttar Pradesh's tableau on Friday on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.</p>

<p>The front of the tableau showed the <em>pran pratishtha (</em>consecration) ceremony that took place in Ayodhya on Jan 22,&nbsp;with an artistic model depicting a young Lord Ram holding a bow and arrow.</p>

<p>The tableau symbolised Ayodhya as a city that shows a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) with "Samriddh Virasat" (rich heritage).</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade.<br />
<br />
The theme of the tableau is based on 'Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat'. The front of the tableau symbolises the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, showcasing his childhood form. <a href="https://t.co/VHdsaiVMvo">pic.twitter.com/VHdsaiVMvo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750765474839949782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The frill surrounding the tableau portrays 'Deepotsav - the festival of lights initiated by the state government to commemorate Bhagwan Shri Ram's arrival in Ayodhya," read a description of the tableau provided in an official booklet on the 75th Republic Day celebrations.</p>

<h2><strong>Republic Day 2024: Rafale jets roared through&nbsp;Delhi's skies&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The French contingent with Rafale fighter jets was flanked by a multi-role tanker transport aircraft roaring through Delhi's skies. On the ground, it was complemented&nbsp;with a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band on Kartavya Path on Friday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> celebrations. <a href="https://t.co/iBwwxWnfpm">pic.twitter.com/iBwwxWnfpm</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750776385835262425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The French president also shared the visuals of the march past on his X platform thanking India for the opportunity. "A great honor for France. Thank you, India," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great honor for France.<br />
Thank you, India. <a href="https://t.co/fXfp4hdCsb">pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750757564281766236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Republic Day Parade: Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation</strong></p>

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<p>For the first time, the 75th Republic Day parade was heralded by 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. The parade commenced with the music of Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, etc. played by women artists.</p>

<p>The Republic Day Parade at New Delhi's Kartavya Path began after President Droupadi Murmu along with French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron arrived at Kartavya Path in a 'traditional buggy'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India-Republic Day Parade 2024: The sun was up on the morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950.

India-Republic Day Parade 2024: The sun was up on the morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950. With French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, the nation began its show of might on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. With a focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (women power) and 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India), the Kartavya Path witnessed the might of the All-women Tri-Services contingent comprising Agniveer troops. This was the first time a women soldiers contingent representing all three services marched in the Republic Day with pride. The motto of the Tri-Service women contingent is 'Seva Tatha Sahayata'. Also read | France will welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, President Macron announces The contingent comprised of women soldiers from the Corps of Military Police of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Earlier on Friday, President Droupadi Murmu commenced the celebrations of the 75th Republic Day by unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path. Lord Ram and Uttar Pradesh tableau A child depicted as Lord Ram was showcased in Uttar Pradesh's tableau on Friday on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The front of the tableau showed the pran pratishtha (consecration) ceremony that took place in Ayodhya on Jan 22, with an artistic model depicting a young Lord Ram holding a bow and arrow. The tableau symbolised Ayodhya as a city that shows a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) with "Samriddh Virasat" (rich heritage). #WATCH | The #RepublicDay2024 tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade. The theme of the tableau is based on 'Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat'. The front of the tableau symbolises the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, showcasing his childhood form. pic.twitter.com/VHdsaiVMvo — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024 × "The frill surrounding the tableau portrays 'Deepotsav - the festival of lights initiated by the state government to commemorate Bhagwan Shri Ram's arrival in Ayodhya," read a description of the tableau provided in an official booklet on the 75th Republic Day celebrations. Republic Day 2024: Rafale jets roared through Delhi's skies The French contingent with Rafale fighter jets was flanked by a multi-role tanker transport aircraft roaring through Delhi's skies. On the ground, it was complemented with a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band on Kartavya Path on Friday. #WATCH | Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation during #RepublicDay2024 celebrations. pic.twitter.com/iBwwxWnfpm — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024 × The French president also shared the visuals of the march past on his X platform thanking India for the opportunity. "A great honor for France. Thank you, India," he said. A great honor for France. Thank you, India. pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024 × Also watch | Republic Day Parade: Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation For the first time, the 75th Republic Day parade was heralded by 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. The parade commenced with the music of Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, etc. played by women artists. The Republic Day Parade at New Delhi's Kartavya Path began after President Droupadi Murmu along with French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at Kartavya Path in a 'traditional buggy'. (With inputs from agencies)

Republic Day 2024 Parade: Women-led spectacle with Ram, Rafale, G20 success and Indo-French bonhomie

<p>Taiwan's Young Liu, the chairman of&nbsp;Taiwanese multinational electronics contract manufacturer Foxconn, has been conferred with Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-awards-2024-declared-on-indian-republic-day-eve-full-list-of-awardees-683648">Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees</a></strong></p>

<p>Young Liu was among the 132 awardees of the Padma wards approved by President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of&nbsp;75th Republic Day.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Foxconn CEO thanks Indian govt for conferring the award <a href="https://t.co/tTkHfIaQUa">https://t.co/tTkHfIaQUa</a> <a href="https://t.co/msOtjS8EQH">pic.twitter.com/msOtjS8EQH</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1750734321084940442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>With more than 40,000 employees across India, Foxconn operates 30 factories with an annual revenue of $10 billion. This figure represents 4.6 per cent of the company's total $216bn&nbsp;revenue.</p>

<h2><strong>India Padma Awards 2024: Who is Young Liu?</strong></h2>

<p>Young Liu has been leading Foxconn as chairperson and president since 2019. With a rich entrepreneurial background, he has&nbsp;founded three companies: A motherboard company Young Micro Systems in 1988, a Northbridge and Southbridge Integrated Circuit design company in 1995 with a focus on the PC chipset and an ITE Tech, and an ADSL IC design company, ITeX in 1997.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-emerge-as-new-manufacturing-centre-in-the-world-foxconn-chairman-liu-633155">India to emerge as new manufacturing centre in the world: Foxconn Chairman Liu</a></strong></p>

<p>He holds an MS degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Southern California (1986) and a BS degree in Electrophysics from Taiwan's National Chiao Tung University (1978).</p>

<h2><strong>Narendra Modi, Young Liu meeting in July 2023</strong></h2>

<p>Foxconn chief Young Liu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar in July 2023 during the Semicon India 2023 conference.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/foxconn-plans-to-invest-and-increase-its-employees-by-two-fold-in-india-by-next-year-637036">Foxconn plans to increase its employees by two-fold in India by next year</a></strong></p>

<p>The meeting occurred shortly after the Taiwanese company withdrew from a $20 billion joint venture, Vedanta Foxconn Semiconductors Limited, intending to establish the first chip manufacturing plant in India.</p>

<p>Foxconn, however, has&nbsp;expressed plans to apply separately to build a semiconductor manufacturing plant in the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taiwan's Young Liu, the chairman of Taiwanese multinational electronics contract manufacturer Foxconn, has been conferred with Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honour.

Taiwan's Young Liu, the chairman of Taiwanese multinational electronics contract manufacturer Foxconn, has been conferred with Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honour. Also read | Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees Young Liu was among the 132 awardees of the Padma wards approved by President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of 75th Republic Day. Foxconn CEO thanks Indian govt for conferring the award https://t.co/tTkHfIaQUa pic.twitter.com/msOtjS8EQH — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 26, 2024 × With more than 40,000 employees across India, Foxconn operates 30 factories with an annual revenue of $10 billion. This figure represents 4.6 per cent of the company's total $216bn revenue. India Padma Awards 2024: Who is Young Liu? Young Liu has been leading Foxconn as chairperson and president since 2019. With a rich entrepreneurial background, he has founded three companies: A motherboard company Young Micro Systems in 1988, a Northbridge and Southbridge Integrated Circuit design company in 1995 with a focus on the PC chipset and an ITE Tech, and an ADSL IC design company, ITeX in 1997. Also read | India to emerge as new manufacturing centre in the world: Foxconn Chairman Liu He holds an MS degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Southern California (1986) and a BS degree in Electrophysics from Taiwan's National Chiao Tung University (1978). Narendra Modi, Young Liu meeting in July 2023 Foxconn chief Young Liu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar in July 2023 during the Semicon India 2023 conference. Also read | Foxconn plans to increase its employees by two-fold in India by next year The meeting occurred shortly after the Taiwanese company withdrew from a $20 billion joint venture, Vedanta Foxconn Semiconductors Limited, intending to establish the first chip manufacturing plant in India. Foxconn, however, has expressed plans to apply separately to build a semiconductor manufacturing plant in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Padma Awards 2024: India confers its third highest civilian honour on Taiwanese tycoon Young Liu

Top 7 States In The US With Biggest Racial Wealth Gaps

Based on 21 key metrics, ranging from the median household income gap to the unemployment rate gap, a list has emerged of US states with the biggest racial wealth gaps. The list was released by personal finance website WalletHub.

Black Americans have a median household wealth of $14,100, compared to $187,300 for non-Hispanic white households. Here's a list of top 7 states having the biggest racial wealth gaps.


Prevailing racism in the United States also exhibits in the job gaps in the United States.

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