<p>China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK called on China to "cease the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and allow genuine freedom of religion or belief and cultural expression without fear of surveillance, torture, forced labour or sexual violence", while the US said China should "release all arbitrarily detained individuals” and cease the operation of "forcible assimilation policies including boarding schools in Tibet and Xinjiang".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-chinas-exit-bans-prevent-tibetans-from-visiting-dalai-lama-in-india-safeguard-defenders-to-wion-588212">Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India - Safeguard Defenders to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>Each country at the UN headquarters in Geneva was given 45 seconds to make recommendations as part of the UN Human Rights Council's universal periodic review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a mechanism by which the 193 United Nations member states review each others' human rights records every five years.</p>

<h2><strong>Drop Jimmy Lai's prosecution: UK urges China</strong></h2>

<p>The UK also recommended that the national security law in Hong Kong be repealed. London also specifically urged Beijing to drop the persecution of the pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-the-national-security-trial-against-jimmy-lai-hong-kongs-pro-democracy-media-mogul-670940">Explained | What is the national security trial against Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong’s pro-democracy media mogul?</a></strong></p>

<p>Some 163 countries spoke at the Tuesday session.</p>

<p>A UN report published in August 2022 found that China was committing "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Beijing had described it as "disinformation".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China's human rights record condemned at UN</strong></p>

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<p>Washington's envoy Ambassador Michèle Taylor repeated the accusation of genocide in Xinjiang.</p>

<p>"We condemn the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and trans-national repression to silence individuals abroad," Taylor said.</p>

<h2><strong>China's response</strong></h2>

<p>While responding to the recommendations, China's UN ambassador, Chen Xu, said that concerns of the countries were caused by "misunderstanding or misinformation".</p>

<p>Chen said: "A few countries groundlessly accuse and smear China, based not on facts but on ideological bias and unfounded rumours and lies."</p>

<p>Bhutan, India's neighbour in the northeast said: "We commend the significant progress in poverty alleviation and the achievement of the poverty reduction target of the 2030 agenda ahead of schedule."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong.

China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong. The UK called on China to "cease the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and allow genuine freedom of religion or belief and cultural expression without fear of surveillance, torture, forced labour or sexual violence", while the US said China should "release all arbitrarily detained individuals” and cease the operation of "forcible assimilation policies including boarding schools in Tibet and Xinjiang". Also read | Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India - Safeguard Defenders to WION Each country at the UN headquarters in Geneva was given 45 seconds to make recommendations as part of the UN Human Rights Council's universal periodic review. It is a mechanism by which the 193 United Nations member states review each others' human rights records every five years. Drop Jimmy Lai's prosecution: UK urges China The UK also recommended that the national security law in Hong Kong be repealed. London also specifically urged Beijing to drop the persecution of the pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. Also read | Explained | What is the national security trial against Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong’s pro-democracy media mogul? Some 163 countries spoke at the Tuesday session. A UN report published in August 2022 found that China was committing "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Beijing had described it as "disinformation". Also watch | China's human rights record condemned at UN × Washington's envoy Ambassador Michèle Taylor repeated the accusation of genocide in Xinjiang. "We condemn the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and trans-national repression to silence individuals abroad," Taylor said. China's response While responding to the recommendations, China's UN ambassador, Chen Xu, said that concerns of the countries were caused by "misunderstanding or misinformation". Chen said: "A few countries groundlessly accuse and smear China, based not on facts but on ideological bias and unfounded rumours and lies." Bhutan, India's neighbour in the northeast said: "We commend the significant progress in poverty alleviation and the achievement of the poverty reduction target of the 2030 agenda ahead of schedule." (With inputs from agencies)

China slammed at UN for human rights abuses, repression of democracy in Hong Kong

<p>Former US President Donald Trump looks set to clinch the Republican nomination for the White House ahead of the November presidential elections after back-to-back&nbsp;wins in the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary. But besides his potential presidency, his weight is making headlines as well.</p>

<p>Trump has now broken his silence about significant weight loss during the recent campaign cycle. The Republican frontrunner revealed that he shed around 20 lbs (a little over 9 kilos). Many are speculating whether Trump deployed pharmaceutical interventions like Ozempic or Wegovy during his weight loss journey.</p>

<p>Contrary to such speculations, Trump disclosed to Fox News that his weight loss was achieved "the hard way".</p>

<p>He attributed his slimmer appearance to a hectic schedule, stating, "I have been so busy I haven't been able to eat very much. I'm not able to sit down and eat like a person like you - you can sit down and eat. Me, it's a little bit tougher."</p>

<p>Dr Carolyn Williams, a licensed dietitian in Alabama, noted that Trump's weight loss appears focused on problematic visceral fat, particularly in the abdominal area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, concerns linger about the sustainability and health implications of his approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What's less clear is how healthy his approach is for losing this weight and maintaining it," she said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Trump is very sharp'</strong></h2>

<p>Dr&nbsp;Williams also cautioned against skipping meals, while pointing out the potential nutritional deficiencies arising from such practices.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-hampshire-us-primaries-donald-trump-delivers-knockout-blow-to-nikky-haley-683000">New Hampshire Republican primary: Donald Trump delivers knockout blow to Nikki Haley</a></strong></p>

<p>New York City-based internal medicine physician Dr Stuart Fischer suggested that over-exertion might have contributed to Trump's weight loss, cautioning against attempts to portray his current health as equivalent to his younger self.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fischer remarked, "He cannot convince anyone that he's the picture of health and he shouldn’t try to convince people he’s as fit as he used to be."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Elections: Donald Trump wins Republican primary in New Hampshire</strong></p>

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<p>Amid discussions about Trump's physical health, questions have also emerged regarding his mental fitness, highlighted by recent instances of confusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Ronny Jackson, the White House physician in 2018,&nbsp;administered the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to Trump, affirming his mental sharpness with a perfect score of 30 out of 30.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jackson reportedly stated, "The [former] president is mentally very sharp, very intact."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former US President Donald Trump looks set to clinch the Republican nomination for the White House ahead of the November presidential elections after back-to-back wins in the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary.

Former US President Donald Trump looks set to clinch the Republican nomination for the White House ahead of the November presidential elections after back-to-back wins in the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary. But besides his potential presidency, his weight is making headlines as well. Trump has now broken his silence about significant weight loss during the recent campaign cycle. The Republican frontrunner revealed that he shed around 20 lbs (a little over 9 kilos). Many are speculating whether Trump deployed pharmaceutical interventions like Ozempic or Wegovy during his weight loss journey. Contrary to such speculations, Trump disclosed to Fox News that his weight loss was achieved "the hard way". He attributed his slimmer appearance to a hectic schedule, stating, "I have been so busy I haven't been able to eat very much. I'm not able to sit down and eat like a person like you - you can sit down and eat. Me, it's a little bit tougher." Dr Carolyn Williams, a licensed dietitian in Alabama, noted that Trump's weight loss appears focused on problematic visceral fat, particularly in the abdominal area. However, concerns linger about the sustainability and health implications of his approach. "What's less clear is how healthy his approach is for losing this weight and maintaining it," she said. 'Trump is very sharp' Dr Williams also cautioned against skipping meals, while pointing out the potential nutritional deficiencies arising from such practices. Also read | New Hampshire Republican primary: Donald Trump delivers knockout blow to Nikki Haley New York City-based internal medicine physician Dr Stuart Fischer suggested that over-exertion might have contributed to Trump's weight loss, cautioning against attempts to portray his current health as equivalent to his younger self. Fischer remarked, "He cannot convince anyone that he's the picture of health and he shouldn’t try to convince people he’s as fit as he used to be." Also watch | US Elections: Donald Trump wins Republican primary in New Hampshire × Amid discussions about Trump's physical health, questions have also emerged regarding his mental fitness, highlighted by recent instances of confusion. Notably, Ronny Jackson, the White House physician in 2018, administered the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to Trump, affirming his mental sharpness with a perfect score of 30 out of 30. Jackson reportedly stated, "The [former] president is mentally very sharp, very intact." (With inputs from agencies)

US elections 2024: 'Very sharp' Donald Trump shed weight 'the hard way'

<p>Ahead of the much-awaited consecration ceremony of the grand temple of Lord&nbsp;Ram at his birthplace in northern Indian state of&nbsp;Ayodhya on January 22, authorities have managed to avert a potential mass casualty event after the arrest of three men linked with terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun's banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pannun, who was at the center of a recent diplomatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-pannun-plot-the-india-us-strategic-partnership-665515">flashpoint</a> between India and the United States, calls for the separation of the Indian state of Punjab from the Union of India, a cause widely denounced in India.</p>

<p>According to a report in The Times of India, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad arrested three individuals hailing from western India's Rajasthan state. The arrests were made during the special surveillance and security operation ahead of the inauguration ceremony of Ram Temple on Jan 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-mandir-a-confluence-of-devotion-faith-and-science-681683">Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A confluence of devotion, faith and science</a></strong></p>

<p>"Acting on intelligence reports about a potential threat, UPATS identified and tracked a suspicious vehicle in Ayodhya. The occupants of the white Scorpio (HR51BX3753) visited various sensitive locations before heading towards Trimurti Hotel. Subsequently, the individuals were intercepted and apprehended," Prashant Kumar Director General of Police (Law and Order), was quoted as saying by the Times of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-temple-live-updates-with-2-days-to-go-before-inauguration-security-bolstered-in-up-delhi-681710">Ram Mandir Inauguration: World's largest lock reaches Ayodhya as offering to temple</a></strong></p>

<p>One of the three arrested individuals, identified as Shankar Lal, had a police record including a 2011 murder of a Congress party politician.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What was the potential conspiracy?</strong></h2>

<p>The report citing&nbsp;the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UPATS) said that the trio received instructions from abroad from a Khalistan supporter to conduct reconnaissance in Ayodhya. The Khalistan supporter&nbsp;acted as a mediator between Pannun and the arrested three individuals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group also tried to shield their activities by displaying a flag depicting God Ram on their vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya</strong></p>

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<p>Terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun released an audio message in which he claimed that the trio arrested in Ayodhya are members of his banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation.</p>

<p>Authorities are investigating the claim made in the audio message.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of the much-awaited consecration ceremony of the grand temple of Lord Ram at his birthplace in northern Indian state of Ayodhya on January 22, authorities have managed to avert a potential mass casualty event after the arrest of three men linked with terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun's banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation.

Ahead of the much-awaited consecration ceremony of the grand temple of Lord Ram at his birthplace in northern Indian state of Ayodhya on January 22, authorities have managed to avert a potential mass casualty event after the arrest of three men linked with terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun's banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation. Pannun, who was at the center of a recent diplomatic flashpoint between India and the United States, calls for the separation of the Indian state of Punjab from the Union of India, a cause widely denounced in India. According to a report in The Times of India, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad arrested three individuals hailing from western India's Rajasthan state. The arrests were made during the special surveillance and security operation ahead of the inauguration ceremony of Ram Temple on Jan 22. Also read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A confluence of devotion, faith and science "Acting on intelligence reports about a potential threat, UPATS identified and tracked a suspicious vehicle in Ayodhya. The occupants of the white Scorpio (HR51BX3753) visited various sensitive locations before heading towards Trimurti Hotel. Subsequently, the individuals were intercepted and apprehended," Prashant Kumar Director General of Police (Law and Order), was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Also read | Ram Mandir Inauguration: World's largest lock reaches Ayodhya as offering to temple One of the three arrested individuals, identified as Shankar Lal, had a police record including a 2011 murder of a Congress party politician. What was the potential conspiracy? The report citing the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UPATS) said that the trio received instructions from abroad from a Khalistan supporter to conduct reconnaissance in Ayodhya. The Khalistan supporter acted as a mediator between Pannun and the arrested three individuals. The group also tried to shield their activities by displaying a flag depicting God Ram on their vehicle. Also watch | Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya × Terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun released an audio message in which he claimed that the trio arrested in Ayodhya are members of his banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation. Authorities are investigating the claim made in the audio message. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya: Anti-terrorist squad arrests men allegedly awaiting terrorist Pannun's instructions

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has issued a notice to Amazon over "deceptive trade practices" after ordinary sweets were sold on the e-commerce platform as divine offerings (or prasad) from Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The sweets were allegedly being sold under the name 'Shri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad.'</p>

<p>The action was taken in response to a complaint filed by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) which said that the Seattle-headquartered e-commerce giant is misleading consumers by selling sweets in the name of "prasad" from the temple that is yet to be inaugurated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The response of Indian government</strong></h2>

<p>The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), India's consumer rights watchdog,&nbsp;said that such practices mislead consumers about the actual nature of the products with inaccurate representations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-consecration-ceremony-100-dignitaries-from-55-nations-to-be-present-on-jan-22-679901">Ram temple consecration ceremony: 100 dignitaries from 55 nations to be present in Ayodhya on Jan 22</a></strong></p>

<p>"Enabling the sale of food products online that make false representations misleads consumers regarding the genuine characteristics of the product. Such practice falsely influences consumers to make purchase decisions they might not have otherwise taken, had the accurate attributes of the product been mentioned," the CCPA said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>These products&nbsp;sold as Ram Mandir 'prasad' on Amazon</strong></h2>

<p>The products in question listed on Amazon include 'Sri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad - Raghupati Ghee Ladoo, Ayodhya Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad, Khoya Khobi Ladoo, Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad - Desi Cow Milk Peda,' among others.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>Amazon is supposed to respond to the notice by the Indian consumer watchdog in the next seven days.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon</strong></p>

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<p>If the e-commerce platform fails to take&nbsp;necessary action, the CCPS can initiate action&nbsp;against Amazon under&nbsp;the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has issued a notice to Amazon over "deceptive trade practices" after ordinary sweets were sold on the e-commerce platform as divine offerings (or prasad) from Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has issued a notice to Amazon over "deceptive trade practices" after ordinary sweets were sold on the e-commerce platform as divine offerings (or prasad) from Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The sweets were allegedly being sold under the name 'Shri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad.' The action was taken in response to a complaint filed by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) which said that the Seattle-headquartered e-commerce giant is misleading consumers by selling sweets in the name of "prasad" from the temple that is yet to be inaugurated. The response of Indian government The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), India's consumer rights watchdog, said that such practices mislead consumers about the actual nature of the products with inaccurate representations. Also read | Ram temple consecration ceremony: 100 dignitaries from 55 nations to be present in Ayodhya on Jan 22 "Enabling the sale of food products online that make false representations misleads consumers regarding the genuine characteristics of the product. Such practice falsely influences consumers to make purchase decisions they might not have otherwise taken, had the accurate attributes of the product been mentioned," the CCPA said in a statement. These products sold as Ram Mandir 'prasad' on Amazon The products in question listed on Amazon include 'Sri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad - Raghupati Ghee Ladoo, Ayodhya Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad, Khoya Khobi Ladoo, Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad - Desi Cow Milk Peda,' among others. What next? Amazon is supposed to respond to the notice by the Indian consumer watchdog in the next seven days. Also watch | Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon × If the e-commerce platform fails to take necessary action, the CCPS can initiate action against Amazon under the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Ram Mandir 'prasad' on Amazon? Modi government pulls up e-commerce platform

<p>A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moily claimed to have consulted a doctor who questioned the feasibility of sustaining on coconut water alone for such an extended period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the veteran Congress leader went on to say, "If he (PM Modi) is alive, then&nbsp;is it a miracle?&nbsp;I doubt if he fasted."</p>

<p>In response, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lahar Singh Siroya said that not everyone is "fake like him (Veerappa Moily)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 11 days leading up to the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, PM Modi engaged in worshipping and feeding cows as per Hindu tradition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His diet was reported to be minimal, consisting mainly of coconut water and fruits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi takes 'Panchamrit', breaks fast after 'Pran Pratishtha' ritual</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, the Prime Minister also embarked on a spiritual tour, visiting various temples linked to the Ramayana era.</p>

<p>A day before the consecration ceremony, PM Modi visited Arichalmunai, believed to be the location where Ram Setu was built.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On January 22, following the Pran Pratishtha (consecration), he broke his fast by having charanamrit (holy water)&nbsp;from Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Khestra.</p>

<p>Moily, however, suggested that if PM Modi had not observed the fast, the sanctum sanctorum might have become impure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ram-mandir-in-ayodhya-isros-satellite-view-of-ram-temple-shows-holy-town-in-all-its-glory-682327">Ram Mandir in Ayodhya: ISRO's satellite view of Ram temple shows holy town in all its glory</a></strong></p>

<p>"If he (Modi) had done Pooja in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple without observing fast, then that place would become impure and will (sic) not generate (supernatural) power," Moily remarked.</p>

<p>Responding to Moily's doubts, Lahar Singh Siroya said: "You can fast and survive if you have faith in Lord Ram, not if you are pleasing the Gandhi family."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also predicted that despite Moily's efforts to please the family, he would not secure a Congress ticket to contest from Chikkaballapur in Karnataka.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Moily claimed to have consulted a doctor who questioned the feasibility of sustaining on coconut water alone for such an extended period. On Tuesday, the veteran Congress leader went on to say, "If he (PM Modi) is alive, then is it a miracle? I doubt if he fasted." In response, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lahar Singh Siroya said that not everyone is "fake like him (Veerappa Moily)." During the 11 days leading up to the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, PM Modi engaged in worshipping and feeding cows as per Hindu tradition. His diet was reported to be minimal, consisting mainly of coconut water and fruits. Also watch | Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi takes 'Panchamrit', breaks fast after 'Pran Pratishtha' ritual × Additionally, the Prime Minister also embarked on a spiritual tour, visiting various temples linked to the Ramayana era. A day before the consecration ceremony, PM Modi visited Arichalmunai, believed to be the location where Ram Setu was built. On January 22, following the Pran Pratishtha (consecration), he broke his fast by having charanamrit (holy water) from Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Khestra. Moily, however, suggested that if PM Modi had not observed the fast, the sanctum sanctorum might have become impure. Also read | Ram Mandir in Ayodhya: ISRO's satellite view of Ram temple shows holy town in all its glory "If he (Modi) had done Pooja in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple without observing fast, then that place would become impure and will (sic) not generate (supernatural) power," Moily remarked. Responding to Moily's doubts, Lahar Singh Siroya said: "You can fast and survive if you have faith in Lord Ram, not if you are pleasing the Gandhi family." He also predicted that despite Moily's efforts to please the family, he would not secure a Congress ticket to contest from Chikkaballapur in Karnataka. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya consecration: 'Miracle' that Modi is alive, says Congress leader Moily on PM's 11-day ritual

<p>The newly consecrated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees for the second consecutive day on Jan 24, as people from across India and beyond queued up to offer prayers to Ram Lalla. Visuals showed a massive crowd at Rampath, the way towards Ram Temple inside which Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 'Pran Pratishtha' rituals and revealed the face of Ram Lalla on Monday, January 22.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Jan 23), nearly five lakh devotees thronged the temple, braving the severe cold as they queued up from 3 am to secure an early entry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ayodhya Inspector General, Praveen Kumar, urged devotees to plan their visits wisely and added that while preparations were complete, the continuous crowd influx necessitated careful scheduling.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Huge crowd throngs Ayodhya's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandir</a><br />
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Hundreds of thousands of people break through security parameter <a href="https://twitter.com/Mohammed11Saleh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mohammed11Saleh</a> tells you more<br />
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Watch more on <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J">https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J</a> <a href="https://t.co/QyYRa2Yh2i">pic.twitter.com/QyYRa2Yh2i</a></p>
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<p>Security measures were visibly strict as devotees, clad in heavy winter robes, made their way into the temple complex for darshan (auspicious viewing).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-devotees-throng-ram-temple-in-indias-ayodhya-as-it-opens-doors-for-public-682992">In Pics | Devotees throng Ram temple in India's Ayodhya as it opens doors for public</a></strong></p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh DG, Law and Order, Prashant Kumar, assured smooth crowd management.</p>

<p>"We made sure that better crowd control and traffic management is done here. We were instructed that the devotees should not face any difficulty. We have all seen positive outcomes from today. Devotees are not getting withheld in the waiting area. They are sent to respective queues and darshan is being carried out smoothly. Today around 8000 police personnel are present in and around the temple. CRPF, SSF and other police officials will be deployed inside the temple...There will be changes made in the deployment outside the temple depending on the situation...," Kumar said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon</strong></p>

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<p>Videos circulating on social media depicted devotees taking a holy dip in the Sarayu River amidst dense fog and biting cold.</p>

<p>Devotees are allowed two daily time slots, from 7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 7 pm, to catch a glimpse of the 51-inch Ram Lalla idol sculpted by Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the gathering after unveiling the idol of Ram Lalla during a grand ceremony, PM Modi said a thousand years later, people will talk about Jan 22, 2024.</p>

<p>The PM added that the occasion is not only about victory but also about humility.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The newly consecrated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees for the second consecutive day on Jan 24, as people from across India and beyond queued up to offer prayers to Ram Lalla.

The newly consecrated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees for the second consecutive day on Jan 24, as people from across India and beyond queued up to offer prayers to Ram Lalla. Visuals showed a massive crowd at Rampath, the way towards Ram Temple inside which Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the 'Pran Pratishtha' rituals and revealed the face of Ram Lalla on Monday, January 22. On Tuesday (Jan 23), nearly five lakh devotees thronged the temple, braving the severe cold as they queued up from 3 am to secure an early entry. Ayodhya Inspector General, Praveen Kumar, urged devotees to plan their visits wisely and added that while preparations were complete, the continuous crowd influx necessitated careful scheduling. Huge crowd throngs Ayodhya's #RamMandir Hundreds of thousands of people break through security parameter @Mohammed11Saleh tells you more Watch more on https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J pic.twitter.com/QyYRa2Yh2i — WION (@WIONews) January 23, 2024 × Security measures were visibly strict as devotees, clad in heavy winter robes, made their way into the temple complex for darshan (auspicious viewing). Also read | In Pics | Devotees throng Ram temple in India's Ayodhya as it opens doors for public Uttar Pradesh DG, Law and Order, Prashant Kumar, assured smooth crowd management. "We made sure that better crowd control and traffic management is done here. We were instructed that the devotees should not face any difficulty. We have all seen positive outcomes from today. Devotees are not getting withheld in the waiting area. They are sent to respective queues and darshan is being carried out smoothly. Today around 8000 police personnel are present in and around the temple. CRPF, SSF and other police officials will be deployed inside the temple...There will be changes made in the deployment outside the temple depending on the situation...," Kumar said. Also watch | Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon × Videos circulating on social media depicted devotees taking a holy dip in the Sarayu River amidst dense fog and biting cold. Devotees are allowed two daily time slots, from 7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 7 pm, to catch a glimpse of the 51-inch Ram Lalla idol sculpted by Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru. Addressing the gathering after unveiling the idol of Ram Lalla during a grand ceremony, PM Modi said a thousand years later, people will talk about Jan 22, 2024. The PM added that the occasion is not only about victory but also about humility. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Devotees throng to view Ram Lalla as authorities ramp up preparations

<p>After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route.</p>

<p>After verifying if it was a private or a chartered flight, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Sunday (Jan 21) said "the plane is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non-Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited: Indian Govt <a href="https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL">https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1748974666067411380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft," the Ministry of Civil Aviation added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited.</p>
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/1748973098169209068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Afghanistan-based media publications initially reported&nbsp;that the crashed plane was of Indian origin and was en route to Moscow.</p>

<p>An official readout from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the aircraft was an air ambulance&nbsp;and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and had refueled at Gaya airport in eastern India's Bihar state.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Indian Civil Aviation ministry says that the Afghanistan crash did not involve an Indian Carrier: <a href="https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC">https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC</a> <a href="https://t.co/y1XjG4kJhe">pic.twitter.com/y1XjG4kJhe</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1748986277259776230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"As per available information, the crashed aircraft is a DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco. It is not an aircraft of Indian carriers. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and did refueling at Gaya Airport," the Ministry of Civil Aviation's statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Taliban say?</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban-run&nbsp;Afghan Aviation Ministry said that a&nbsp;plane carrying six Russians from India to Tashkent crashed in Badakshan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zabihullah Amiri, a spokesperson for Badakhshan's provincial government, told Reuters that a team had been sent to the location of the crash, a remote area more than 200 km (124 miles) from the provincial capital Fayzabad that would take the team 12 hours to reach.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Russia say?</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;A Russian-registered chartered plane with six people on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan a day earlier, Russian aviation authorities said after Afghan police said they had received reports of a crash. The aircraft, local media reported while citing Taliban officials, was of Indian origin, a claim later denounced by Indian authorities.</p>

<p>The plane was a charter ambulance flight travelling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation.</p>

<p>The flight was carrying out a private medical evacuation from Thailand's Pattaya, a popular tourist destination for Russians, to Moscow, Russian state-run TASS news agency reported, citing the Russian embassy in Bangkok.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province</strong></p>

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<p>The claim coincides with the statement of Indian aviation ministry&nbsp;that it was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On board was a bedridden patient in serious condition, a Russian citizen, who was transported from one of the hospitals in Pattaya to Russia," the RIA news agency reported, citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport.</p>

<p>Russia's Investigative Committee said it had opened a criminal case to determine if safety rules had been violated, Reuters reported.</p>


After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route.

After a commercial aircraft initially believed to be from India crashed in Afghanistan’s northeast Badakhshan province on Saturday (Jan 20) night, the Indian authorities clarified that none of India's regular flights fly that route. After verifying if it was a private or a chartered flight, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Sunday (Jan 21) said "the plane is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non-Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft." The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited: Indian Govt https://t.co/2yrhHu0zxL — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 21, 2024 × "It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft," the Ministry of Civil Aviation added. The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited. — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) January 21, 2024 × Afghanistan-based media publications initially reported that the crashed plane was of Indian origin and was en route to Moscow. An official readout from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and had refueled at Gaya airport in eastern India's Bihar state. The Indian Civil Aviation ministry says that the Afghanistan crash did not involve an Indian Carrier: https://t.co/MoUdlyQFlC pic.twitter.com/y1XjG4kJhe — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 21, 2024 × "As per available information, the crashed aircraft is a DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco. It is not an aircraft of Indian carriers. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and did refueling at Gaya Airport," the Ministry of Civil Aviation's statement read. What did Taliban say? The Taliban-run Afghan Aviation Ministry said that a plane carrying six Russians from India to Tashkent crashed in Badakshan. Zabihullah Amiri, a spokesperson for Badakhshan's provincial government, told Reuters that a team had been sent to the location of the crash, a remote area more than 200 km (124 miles) from the provincial capital Fayzabad that would take the team 12 hours to reach. What did Russia say? A Russian-registered chartered plane with six people on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan a day earlier, Russian aviation authorities said after Afghan police said they had received reports of a crash. The aircraft, local media reported while citing Taliban officials, was of Indian origin, a claim later denounced by Indian authorities. The plane was a charter ambulance flight travelling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation. The flight was carrying out a private medical evacuation from Thailand's Pattaya, a popular tourist destination for Russians, to Moscow, Russian state-run TASS news agency reported, citing the Russian embassy in Bangkok. Also watch | Passenger plane crashes in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province × The claim coincides with the statement of Indian aviation ministry that it was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow. "On board was a bedridden patient in serious condition, a Russian citizen, who was transported from one of the hospitals in Pattaya to Russia," the RIA news agency reported, citing a source at Thailand's Utapao International Airport. Russia's Investigative Committee said it had opened a criminal case to determine if safety rules had been violated, Reuters reported.

Afghanistan plane crash: What we know so far as India, Taliban, Russia give differing accounts

<p>Recent reports in the US media suggest that former US First Lady Michelle Obama may enter the 2024 presidential election, setting the stage for a potential showdown with former US president Donald Trump. Speculations have been rife after Cindy Adams' column in the New York Post and longtime Trump adviser Roger J. Stone Jr&nbsp;predicting the same.</p>

<p>"I continue to predict — as I have for well over two years — that Michelle Obama will be the Democrat Party Nominee for President in 2024," Roger J Stone Jr, the longtime adviser to Donald Trump posted on social media a week before the Iowa caucuses.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Cindy Adams say?</strong></h2>

<p>Adams dismisses incumbent US President Joe Biden as the next potential president citing his purported reluctance to debate and challenge in delivering pre-written scripts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her article, she contends, "Biden won’t debate. Can’t. Our codger-in-chief cannot even read the prewritten script in front of him fast enough to pronounce the words. So, forget him, which most of us already have."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-democrats-are-urging-michelle-obama-to-run-for-president-report-630812">'Desperate' Democrats are urging Michelle Obama to run for president: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Adding weight to the speculation, Adams pointed to Michelle Obama's expressed apprehension about the 2024 election outcome in a podcast interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The columnist suggests that Obama's concerns were not a mere casual remark but a strategic move, noting that she has sent a survey to Democratic Party leaders gauging their support for her potential candidacy.</p>

<p>The New York Post reveals that over a year ago, during the summer of 2022, Michelle Obama allegedly met with prominent hedge CEOs in NYC, declaring, "I am running, and I am asking for your support."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adams interprets this as a sign that the Obamas are subtly encouraging Joe Biden to step aside.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Michelle Obama to Run For President In 2024? Report Says Joe Biden May Bow Out</strong></p>

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<p>She remarks, "Obama’s quietly angling for Joe to go. He’s weaseled up to this for a few weeks. Mouths aren’t talking. But mouths are knowing."</p>

<h2><strong>Megyn Kelly also weighs in</strong></h2>

<p>Former Fox News personality and political commentator Megyn Kelly also weighed in on the speculation stating that Michelle Obama possesses more political talent than Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Kelly remains sceptical about the former first lady's potential bid, she points to Obama's recent podcast interview as a hint, stating, "She has nothing to promote. She has no book, she has no event, so that means she called them and said, ‘I have something to say’."</p>

<p>Political observers are watching for any official announcement from Michelle Obama regarding her intentions for the 2024 presidential race.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Recent reports in the US media suggest that former US First Lady Michelle Obama may enter the 2024 presidential election, setting the stage for a potential showdown with former US president Donald Trump.

Recent reports in the US media suggest that former US First Lady Michelle Obama may enter the 2024 presidential election, setting the stage for a potential showdown with former US president Donald Trump. Speculations have been rife after Cindy Adams' column in the New York Post and longtime Trump adviser Roger J. Stone Jr predicting the same. "I continue to predict — as I have for well over two years — that Michelle Obama will be the Democrat Party Nominee for President in 2024," Roger J Stone Jr, the longtime adviser to Donald Trump posted on social media a week before the Iowa caucuses. What did Cindy Adams say? Adams dismisses incumbent US President Joe Biden as the next potential president citing his purported reluctance to debate and challenge in delivering pre-written scripts. In her article, she contends, "Biden won’t debate. Can’t. Our codger-in-chief cannot even read the prewritten script in front of him fast enough to pronounce the words. So, forget him, which most of us already have." Also read | 'Desperate' Democrats are urging Michelle Obama to run for president: Report Adding weight to the speculation, Adams pointed to Michelle Obama's expressed apprehension about the 2024 election outcome in a podcast interview. The columnist suggests that Obama's concerns were not a mere casual remark but a strategic move, noting that she has sent a survey to Democratic Party leaders gauging their support for her potential candidacy. The New York Post reveals that over a year ago, during the summer of 2022, Michelle Obama allegedly met with prominent hedge CEOs in NYC, declaring, "I am running, and I am asking for your support." Adams interprets this as a sign that the Obamas are subtly encouraging Joe Biden to step aside. Also watch | Gravitas: Michelle Obama to Run For President In 2024? Report Says Joe Biden May Bow Out × She remarks, "Obama’s quietly angling for Joe to go. He’s weaseled up to this for a few weeks. Mouths aren’t talking. But mouths are knowing." Megyn Kelly also weighs in Former Fox News personality and political commentator Megyn Kelly also weighed in on the speculation stating that Michelle Obama possesses more political talent than Joe Biden. While Kelly remains sceptical about the former first lady's potential bid, she points to Obama's recent podcast interview as a hint, stating, "She has nothing to promote. She has no book, she has no event, so that means she called them and said, ‘I have something to say’." Political observers are watching for any official announcement from Michelle Obama regarding her intentions for the 2024 presidential race. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump Vs Michelle Obama in 2024 US elections? Reports say former first lady could replace Joe Biden

<p>On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire.</p>

<p>A Shiva temple symbolising a <em>jyotirlinga</em> or the most sacred devotional representation of God Shiva stood in Somnath as early as 2,000 years ago. The last demolition of the holy site came at the hands of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1665. It lay in ruins until India's independence in 1947, following which its reconstruction began under the orders of the first Deputy Prime Minister of India&nbsp;Vallabhbhai Patel upon receiving approval for reconstruction from Mahatma Gandhi.</p>

<p>"Why is the government unwilling to rebuild a grand Ram Temple at Ayodhya?" Advani asked the crowd at Somnath as he began his 'rath yatra' or chariot procession on September 25, 1990, pointing towards the Somnath precedent which stood close to that site of address.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c6ebb4d-c042-45fd-882c-e4dd20cad5ee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-22T221359.618.png" /></p>

<p><em>BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990 | via X</em></p>

<p>From Somnath, riding on a DCM Toyota mini-truck designed to look like a chariot, Advani set himself on course to travel on it for 10,000 km from Somnath to Ayodhya. October 30, 1990, was scheduled as the concluding day of the Rath Yatra to "begin building a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the disputed site in Ayodhya existed a 16th-century mosque which Hindus believed, and archaeological evidence later reportedly confirmed, was built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his way, Advani's procession covered 10,000 km across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and later Bihar after a brief halt. Helping him for the Gujarat leg of the yatra was a 40-year-old Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The choice of Somnath as the starting point of the yatra had a powerful symbolic value," Advani later wrote of the Rath Yatra in his 2008 autobiography <em>My Country My Life</em>, adding that the intent was to "seek legitimacy for Mandir movement by drawing a parallel" with the history of Islamic conquests in Indian subcontinent vis-a-vis the destruction of pre-existing places of worship, mostly Hindu and Jain temples.</p>

<h2><strong>How did people respond to Advani's&nbsp;Rath Yatra?</strong></h2>

<p>In the countryside of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, journalists described a lot of womenfolk lining up on either side of the road with a copper plate and with ritual material&nbsp;like lamps, flowers, and coins which were thrown at the DCM Toyota 'Rath.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Advani's rath got expensive offerings, like received in temples," writes Vinay Sitapati in his 2020 book <em>Jugalbandi: The BJP Before Modi</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"One young man even stabbed his hand and smeared the blood on Advani's forehead as a Tilak. Advani blanched, his discomfort evident," Sitapati added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the rath rolled on across western and central India, "it became increasingly clear that the question of building a Ram Temple touches an emotional chord," NM Ghatate quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a close Advani contemporary, as saying in his book <em>Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Four Decades in Parliament</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Advani was arrested in Bihar's Samastipur by the then&nbsp;chief minister Lalu Yadav on October 23, 1990.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The procession to Ayodhya continued without him.</p>

<p>In a public statement, Vajpayee said that Advani was going to Ayodhya to do penance, "not fight Ravana".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But many time (sic) the vanara sena (monkey army) that followed Ram did not know where they were going," Vajpayee said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On October 30, 1990, Uttar Pradesh police opened fire on Karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) in Ayodhya. The mosque at the site believed to be Ram's birthplace was damaged but stood nonetheless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years later, at 1:55 pm&nbsp;on December 6, 1992, Advani heard a loud thud. A 200,000-strong mob razed one of the domes of the mosque they believed stood at Ram's birthplace. Advani and others were at Ram Katha Kunj, an elevated platform 200 metres from the mosque.</p>

<p>"Rather than witness the final journey he had commenced from Somnath in September 1990, Advani spent the next few hours on the platform. The journalist Chandan Mitra was also on the platform. He remembers that Advani 'went downstairs and just sat silently through the evening. Once or twice when he did come up, he kept repeating that it is unfortunate'," Sitapati writes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After 27&nbsp;years, India's Supreme Court gave its judgment on the title suit for Ayodhya's site of contention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'Temple gets site, mosque a plot', said the front page of a leading English newspaper on November 10, 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Within the next three months, as per the court's order, a Temple Trust was constituted by the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the same man who was key to galvanisation of support for Advani's Rath Yatra during its Gujarat leg in 1990.&nbsp;<br />
<img alt="Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra | File" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31cee258-eecf-43b7-8657-567150cfb346" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-22T222951.231.png" /></p>

<p><em>Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra in September 1990 | File</em></p>

<p>About a year later in September 2020, Advani and 31 others were acquitted of charges related to December 6, 1992 violence in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Anti-social elements brought down the structure. The accused leaders tried to stop these people," said the special judge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January 2024, the Ram Temple was consecrated in Ayodhya by Advani's 1990 disciple, Narendra Modi, elected India's Prime Minister since 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Ram not just belongs to us but everyone, says PM Modi at inauguration</strong></p>

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<p>At 96, as Advani chose to give temple consecration a miss due to "cold weather", Modi announced the arrival of Ram at his birthplace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi is "the devotee chosen by Lord Ram to consecrate his temple", Advani said on January 15. "I was just a charioteer."</p>


On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire.

On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire. A Shiva temple symbolising a jyotirlinga or the most sacred devotional representation of God Shiva stood in Somnath as early as 2,000 years ago. The last demolition of the holy site came at the hands of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1665. It lay in ruins until India's independence in 1947, following which its reconstruction began under the orders of the first Deputy Prime Minister of India Vallabhbhai Patel upon receiving approval for reconstruction from Mahatma Gandhi. "Why is the government unwilling to rebuild a grand Ram Temple at Ayodhya?" Advani asked the crowd at Somnath as he began his 'rath yatra' or chariot procession on September 25, 1990, pointing towards the Somnath precedent which stood close to that site of address. BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990 | via X From Somnath, riding on a DCM Toyota mini-truck designed to look like a chariot, Advani set himself on course to travel on it for 10,000 km from Somnath to Ayodhya. October 30, 1990, was scheduled as the concluding day of the Rath Yatra to "begin building a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya". At the disputed site in Ayodhya existed a 16th-century mosque which Hindus believed, and archaeological evidence later reportedly confirmed, was built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ram. On his way, Advani's procession covered 10,000 km across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and later Bihar after a brief halt. Helping him for the Gujarat leg of the yatra was a 40-year-old Narendra Modi. "The choice of Somnath as the starting point of the yatra had a powerful symbolic value," Advani later wrote of the Rath Yatra in his 2008 autobiography My Country My Life, adding that the intent was to "seek legitimacy for Mandir movement by drawing a parallel" with the history of Islamic conquests in Indian subcontinent vis-a-vis the destruction of pre-existing places of worship, mostly Hindu and Jain temples. How did people respond to Advani's Rath Yatra? In the countryside of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, journalists described a lot of womenfolk lining up on either side of the road with a copper plate and with ritual material like lamps, flowers, and coins which were thrown at the DCM Toyota 'Rath.' "Advani's rath got expensive offerings, like received in temples," writes Vinay Sitapati in his 2020 book Jugalbandi: The BJP Before Modi. "One young man even stabbed his hand and smeared the blood on Advani's forehead as a Tilak. Advani blanched, his discomfort evident," Sitapati added. As the rath rolled on across western and central India, "it became increasingly clear that the question of building a Ram Temple touches an emotional chord," NM Ghatate quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a close Advani contemporary, as saying in his book Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Four Decades in Parliament. Advani was arrested in Bihar's Samastipur by the then chief minister Lalu Yadav on October 23, 1990. The procession to Ayodhya continued without him. In a public statement, Vajpayee said that Advani was going to Ayodhya to do penance, "not fight Ravana". "But many time (sic) the vanara sena (monkey army) that followed Ram did not know where they were going," Vajpayee said. On October 30, 1990, Uttar Pradesh police opened fire on Karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) in Ayodhya. The mosque at the site believed to be Ram's birthplace was damaged but stood nonetheless. Two years later, at 1:55 pm on December 6, 1992, Advani heard a loud thud. A 200,000-strong mob razed one of the domes of the mosque they believed stood at Ram's birthplace. Advani and others were at Ram Katha Kunj, an elevated platform 200 metres from the mosque. "Rather than witness the final journey he had commenced from Somnath in September 1990, Advani spent the next few hours on the platform. The journalist Chandan Mitra was also on the platform. He remembers that Advani 'went downstairs and just sat silently through the evening. Once or twice when he did come up, he kept repeating that it is unfortunate'," Sitapati writes. After 27 years, India's Supreme Court gave its judgment on the title suit for Ayodhya's site of contention. 'Temple gets site, mosque a plot', said the front page of a leading English newspaper on November 10, 2019. Within the next three months, as per the court's order, a Temple Trust was constituted by the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the same man who was key to galvanisation of support for Advani's Rath Yatra during its Gujarat leg in 1990. Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra in September 1990 | File About a year later in September 2020, Advani and 31 others were acquitted of charges related to December 6, 1992 violence in Ayodhya. "Anti-social elements brought down the structure. The accused leaders tried to stop these people," said the special judge. In January 2024, the Ram Temple was consecrated in Ayodhya by Advani's 1990 disciple, Narendra Modi, elected India's Prime Minister since 2014. Also watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Ram not just belongs to us but everyone, says PM Modi at inauguration × At 96, as Advani chose to give temple consecration a miss due to "cold weather", Modi announced the arrival of Ram at his birthplace. Modi is "the devotee chosen by Lord Ram to consecrate his temple", Advani said on January 15. "I was just a charioteer."

Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024

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Ayodhya Ram Mandir: How PM Modi Led Divine Consecration

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the holy consecration ceremony of Ayodhya Ram Mandir at lord Ram's birthplace on Jan 22.

Divine music from 30 Indian instruments, from Santoor to Sitar, filled Ram Mandir's atmosphere all through the consecration ceremony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi crossed five mandapas of grand Ram Temple, including Nritya mandapa and Rang mandapa.

The 'Pran Pratishtha' (consecration) took place at about 12:30 PM during Abhijit muhurata, when according to Valmiki Ramayana, Lord Ram was born.

"The divine moment of Pran Pratishtha is overwhelming. To be a part of the divine occasion is my fortune," said a social media post from PM Modi's X account as he entered the sanctum sanctorum of Ram temple.

The consecration took place during an 84-second window between 12:29 to a little over 12:30 PM (IST).

https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2024-01-22 at 13-1705922025536.mp4

Upon consecration, Ram Lalla was seen adorned in golden tilak, golden bow, emerald, and Ruby jewels.

PM Modi offered the holy water of Gangotri and a Lotus flower at Ram Lalla's feet. He led the consecration alongside RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. 


https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2024-01-22 at 13-1705911636902.mp4

The helicopters showered flowers all over the temple premises, the Sarayu River, and the Ram ki Paidi area.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya Ram temple

<p>Eleven men convicted of the brutal mass sexual assault of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano surrendered at a Godhra prison hours before the Supreme Court-mandated two-week deadline to surrender, set on January 8, ended.&nbsp;The apex court revoked the remission and premature release granted to these individuals by the Gujarat government on August 15, 2022.</p>

<p>The surrendered individuals—Radheshyam Shah, Jaswant Nai, Govind Nai, Kesar Vohania, Baka Vohania, Raju Soni, Ramesh Chandana, Shailesh Bhatt, Bipin Joshi, Pradip Modhiya, and Mitesh Bhatt—made their way from Singwad in Dahod district to the Godhra sub-jail in Panchmahal district just before midnight. They reportedly arrived in two separate vehicles.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bilkis Bano case: SC overturns early release of all 11 convicts</strong></p>

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<p>Ahead of the expected surrender, multiple units of personnel from the Panchmahal district police of Gujarat state were reportedly deployed for security outside the Godhra sub-jail since late Sunday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities at the Godhra sub-jail verified the surrender at 11:45 pm on Sunday, the Indian Express reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development follows the Supreme Court's dismissal of the convicts' petitions seeking more time to surrender, where reasons such as the ill-health of ageing parents, a family wedding, and crop harvest were cited. On January 8, the top court nullified the Gujarat government's decision to grant remission and added that the state had overstepped its jurisdiction.</p>

<p>The court's observation came as the men faced trial and were convicted in neighbouring&nbsp;Maharashtra state and not in Gujarat.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Convicts were released under Gujarat govt's remission policy</strong></h2>

<p>The convicts, sentenced to life for sexually assaulting Bilkis Bano and killing her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots, were released on August 15, 2022, based on the Gujarat government's 1992 remission policy. Bilkis Bano had challenged the state government's move before the apex court.</p>

<p>Bano, who was 21 years old and five months pregnant at the time of the incident, survived a brutal gang rape while fleeing with her family from Randhikpur in the aftermath of the 2002 Sabarmati train carnage. While fleeing, a total of 14 family members of her household, including her three-year-old daughter, died.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Eleven men convicted of the brutal mass sexual assault of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano surrendered at a Godhra prison hours before the Supreme Court-mandated two-week deadline to surrender, set on January 8, ended.

Eleven men convicted of the brutal mass sexual assault of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano surrendered at a Godhra prison hours before the Supreme Court-mandated two-week deadline to surrender, set on January 8, ended. The apex court revoked the remission and premature release granted to these individuals by the Gujarat government on August 15, 2022. The surrendered individuals—Radheshyam Shah, Jaswant Nai, Govind Nai, Kesar Vohania, Baka Vohania, Raju Soni, Ramesh Chandana, Shailesh Bhatt, Bipin Joshi, Pradip Modhiya, and Mitesh Bhatt—made their way from Singwad in Dahod district to the Godhra sub-jail in Panchmahal district just before midnight. They reportedly arrived in two separate vehicles. Also watch | Bilkis Bano case: SC overturns early release of all 11 convicts × Ahead of the expected surrender, multiple units of personnel from the Panchmahal district police of Gujarat state were reportedly deployed for security outside the Godhra sub-jail since late Sunday evening. Authorities at the Godhra sub-jail verified the surrender at 11:45 pm on Sunday, the Indian Express reported. The development follows the Supreme Court's dismissal of the convicts' petitions seeking more time to surrender, where reasons such as the ill-health of ageing parents, a family wedding, and crop harvest were cited. On January 8, the top court nullified the Gujarat government's decision to grant remission and added that the state had overstepped its jurisdiction. The court's observation came as the men faced trial and were convicted in neighbouring Maharashtra state and not in Gujarat. Convicts were released under Gujarat govt's remission policy The convicts, sentenced to life for sexually assaulting Bilkis Bano and killing her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots, were released on August 15, 2022, based on the Gujarat government's 1992 remission policy. Bilkis Bano had challenged the state government's move before the apex court. Bano, who was 21 years old and five months pregnant at the time of the incident, survived a brutal gang rape while fleeing with her family from Randhikpur in the aftermath of the 2002 Sabarmati train carnage. While fleeing, a total of 14 family members of her household, including her three-year-old daughter, died. (With inputs from agencies)

Bilkis Bano gang rape case: All 11 convicts surrender after Supreme Court's order against early release

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