<p>Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources.</p>

<p>"The matter is in the court and the next hearing is on March 16. Instead of sending summons daily, the ED should wait for the court's decision. We will not leave the INDIA alliance. Modi government should not create pressure like this," a party source said.</p>

<p>"They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons repeatedly. Informally, we have got messages to break the alliance. We will not leave the INDIA alliance," Kejriwal said.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The probe agency issued the seventh summons to Kejriwal on Feb 22 in the case related to his government's excise policy.</p>

<p>He was asked to appear before the agency on Feb 26 for questioning related to the money laundering probe in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22.</p>

<p>The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did on the previous occasions.</p>

<p>In a statement, the AAP reiterated that the summonses sent to Kejriwal were "illegal" and said the issue was "now in court".</p>

<p>"The Enforcement Directorate itself approached the court. Instead of sending summons again and again, the ED should wait for the court's decision," the party said.</p>

<p>"Whatever law is relevant, we are responding. Now, a case has been filed in the (ED) court. The Enforcement Directorate should wait for the result before issuing any fresh summons," Kejriwal told reporters outside the Delhi assembly.</p>

<p>The previous five summons were issued on February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-summoned-by-ed-for-7th-time-in-excise-policy-case-692648">Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal summoned by ED for 7th time in excise policy case</a></p>

<h2><strong>Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections.</p>

<p>"All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice.</p>

<p>ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons.</p>

<p>The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery.</p>

<p>The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources.

Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources. "The matter is in the court and the next hearing is on March 16. Instead of sending summons daily, the ED should wait for the court's decision. We will not leave the INDIA alliance. Modi government should not create pressure like this," a party source said. "They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons repeatedly. Informally, we have got messages to break the alliance. We will not leave the INDIA alliance," Kejriwal said. #WATCH | On skipping ED Summon, Delhi CM and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal says "They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons… pic.twitter.com/FW4tJTBcpE — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024 × The probe agency issued the seventh summons to Kejriwal on Feb 22 in the case related to his government's excise policy. He was asked to appear before the agency on Feb 26 for questioning related to the money laundering probe in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did on the previous occasions. In a statement, the AAP reiterated that the summonses sent to Kejriwal were "illegal" and said the issue was "now in court". "The Enforcement Directorate itself approached the court. Instead of sending summons again and again, the ED should wait for the court's decision," the party said. "Whatever law is relevant, we are responding. Now, a case has been filed in the (ED) court. The Enforcement Directorate should wait for the result before issuing any fresh summons," Kejriwal told reporters outside the Delhi assembly. The previous five summons were issued on February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22. Also read: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal summoned by ED for 7th time in excise policy case Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections. "All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice. ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons. The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery. The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation. The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal skips 7th ED summons, AAP says will wait for court order

<p>In a groundbreaking move, Japanese women for the very first time in nearly 1,250 years joined the "naked festival" at a shrine in central Japan.</p>

<p>Dressed in purple robes, women excitedly chanted as they carried a big bamboo trunk as an offering for the ritual.</p>

<p>Seven groups of women participated in the ritual wherein participants prayed for happiness.</p>

<p>Despite the event's name, the people taking part in it are not naked. Its rituals are also said to drive away evil spirits.</p>

<p>Women donned "Happi Coats", which are robes that reach the hips and are specifically worn at Japanese festivals.</p>

<p>"I heard that women could participate so I definitely wanted to take part to help bring excitement to this town and festival," news agency Reuters quoted a 59-year-old civil servant Emi Tachibana, one of the participants, as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/japans-ancient-naked-men-festival-sparks-cheers-and-joy-despite-aging-population-691478">Japan’s 1,000-year-old ‘naked men’ festival sparks joy for one last time as population grows old</a></p>

<p>A priest at the shrine named Naruhito Tsunoda stated that women were allowed to participate and that some had even made minor offerings as individuals previously. However, he said that when last year a women's group inquired if they could be a part of the event, saying 'yes' was easy.</p>

<p>"I believe the most important thing is for there to be a fun festival for everyone. I think God would be happiest about that too," he said.</p>

<p>The women, however, did not join the festival's main event where a large group of men clash together to drive away evil spirits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tsunoda stated that it would be tough for the authorities to open up that part of the festival to women considering the physical aspect.</p>

<p>In the year 2023, the Japanese government said that it would work on improving women's engagement in society after an annual report revealed that the country was struggling to narrow the gender gap. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Economic Forum report measuring gender parity ranked Japan at the 125th spot out of 146 countries in 2023, down from 116th in 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a groundbreaking move, Japanese women for the very first time in nearly 1,250 years joined the "naked festival" at a shrine in central Japan. Dressed in purple robes, women excitedly chanted as they carried a big bamboo trunk as an offering for the ritual.

In a groundbreaking move, Japanese women for the very first time in nearly 1,250 years joined the "naked festival" at a shrine in central Japan. Dressed in purple robes, women excitedly chanted as they carried a big bamboo trunk as an offering for the ritual. Seven groups of women participated in the ritual wherein participants prayed for happiness. Despite the event's name, the people taking part in it are not naked. Its rituals are also said to drive away evil spirits. Women donned "Happi Coats", which are robes that reach the hips and are specifically worn at Japanese festivals. "I heard that women could participate so I definitely wanted to take part to help bring excitement to this town and festival," news agency Reuters quoted a 59-year-old civil servant Emi Tachibana, one of the participants, as saying. Also read: Japan’s 1,000-year-old ‘naked men’ festival sparks joy for one last time as population grows old A priest at the shrine named Naruhito Tsunoda stated that women were allowed to participate and that some had even made minor offerings as individuals previously. However, he said that when last year a women's group inquired if they could be a part of the event, saying 'yes' was easy. "I believe the most important thing is for there to be a fun festival for everyone. I think God would be happiest about that too," he said. The women, however, did not join the festival's main event where a large group of men clash together to drive away evil spirits. Tsunoda stated that it would be tough for the authorities to open up that part of the festival to women considering the physical aspect. In the year 2023, the Japanese government said that it would work on improving women's engagement in society after an annual report revealed that the country was struggling to narrow the gender gap. The World Economic Forum report measuring gender parity ranked Japan at the 125th spot out of 146 countries in 2023, down from 116th in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Women participate in Japan's 1,250-year-old 'naked festival' for first time

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.</p>

<p>The projects are worth over $4.94&nbsp;(Rs 41,000 crores).</p>

<p>During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'.</p>

<p>"Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said.</p>

<p>He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government.</p>

<p>"Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694">‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country.</p>

<p>While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity."</p>

<p>At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand.</p>

<p>"It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing. The projects are worth over $4.94 (Rs 41,000 crores). During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'. "Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said. He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government. "Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "Today, the foundation stone of more than 2,000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start from June but the scale and speed with which work has been started is… pic.twitter.com/GdxuV493wC — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024 × As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore). These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city. Also read: ‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024 Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country. While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity." At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand. "It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi inaugurates over 2000 railway infrastructure projects

<p>In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25).</p>

<p>The goods train was running at a speed of over 100 km per hour before it was brought to a halt near Ucchi Bassi railway station in Mukerian with the help of sand bags.</p>

<p>The train was reportedly laden with chip stones and was on its way to Punjab from Jammu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of the train, which went viral on the internet, shows it passing by a railway station at a very high speed.</p>

<p>The unusual incident took place between 7.25 am and 9 am, when, as per the officials, the train had halted at the Kathua railway station in Jammu for a driver change.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 53-wagon train probably began to roll down a slope gradient track on the Jammu-Jalandhar section and gained speed along the way, a spokesperson of the Northern Railway said, citing preliminary information.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694">‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka</a></p>

<p>"The train was stopped after a Railway official placed wood blocks on the tracks," officials said.</p>

<p>Both the loco pilot and assistant loco pilot were not aboard the goods train.</p>

<p>The officials said that no damage or casualty was reported in the incident further adding that an inquiry has been launched to find out its exact cause.</p>

<p>"No casualty was reported in the incident," officials said.</p>

<p>“An inquiry has been initiated to know the exact cause of the incident. Prima facie, it seems that the train started rolling down the slope gradient towards Punjab without the driver and his assistant,” Divisional Traffic Manager, Jammu, Prateek Srivastava told news agency PTI.</p>

<p>Whether the train had been "secured" appropriately at Kathua on the down gradient is currently under investigation, said the spokesperson adding that an extensive probe into the matter was underway.</p>

<p>Railway officials and staffers along the route were put on alert.</p>

<p>Government Railway Police (Jalandhar) Sub-Inspector Ashok Kumar stated that all the rail-road crossings on the Jalandhar-Pathankot section were secured after receiving information about the freight train.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25).

In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25). The goods train was running at a speed of over 100 km per hour before it was brought to a halt near Ucchi Bassi railway station in Mukerian with the help of sand bags. The train was reportedly laden with chip stones and was on its way to Punjab from Jammu. The video of the train, which went viral on the internet, shows it passing by a railway station at a very high speed. The unusual incident took place between 7.25 am and 9 am, when, as per the officials, the train had halted at the Kathua railway station in Jammu for a driver change. #WATCH | Hoshiarpur, Punjab: The freight train, which was at a halt at Kathua Station, was stopped near Ucchi Bassi in Mukerian Punjab. The train had suddenly started running without the driver, due to a slope https://t.co/ll2PSrjY1I pic.twitter.com/9SlPyPBjqr — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × The 53-wagon train probably began to roll down a slope gradient track on the Jammu-Jalandhar section and gained speed along the way, a spokesperson of the Northern Railway said, citing preliminary information. Also read: ‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka "The train was stopped after a Railway official placed wood blocks on the tracks," officials said. Both the loco pilot and assistant loco pilot were not aboard the goods train. The officials said that no damage or casualty was reported in the incident further adding that an inquiry has been launched to find out its exact cause. "No casualty was reported in the incident," officials said. “An inquiry has been initiated to know the exact cause of the incident. Prima facie, it seems that the train started rolling down the slope gradient towards Punjab without the driver and his assistant,” Divisional Traffic Manager, Jammu, Prateek Srivastava told news agency PTI. Whether the train had been "secured" appropriately at Kathua on the down gradient is currently under investigation, said the spokesperson adding that an extensive probe into the matter was underway. Railway officials and staffers along the route were put on alert. Government Railway Police (Jalandhar) Sub-Inspector Ashok Kumar stated that all the rail-road crossings on the Jalandhar-Pathankot section were secured after receiving information about the freight train. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Freight train travels for over 70 km without drivers in India's Punjab

<p>West Bengal police on Sunday (Feb 25) arrested six members of an ‘independent’ fact-finding committee in Bhojerhat while they were headed to visit the unrest-hit Sandeshkhali region to meet local residents.</p>

<p>Following the arrest, the fact-finding team called on the Governor and expressed their strong protest against the illegal arrest and intimidation.</p>

<p>West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose asked for an immediate report from the Director General of Police (DGP).</p>

<p>The panel was led by Justice Narsimha Reddy, Former Chief Justice of Patna High Court with members Charu Bali Khanna, Bhavna Bajaj, OP Vyas, Rajpal Singh, Aparna Banerjee and Bandana Biswas.</p>

<p>After being detained the members of the committee were brought to PHQ Lal Bazaar Kolkata.</p>

<p>"We were requesting them to not cross from here, but they were trying to break the police barricade unlawfully. So, we had to arrest them under Preventive Sections," said Saikat Ghosh, Deputy Commissioner, Bhangar Division, Kolkata Police.</p>

<p>"If there is information of a 'breach of peace', police can arrest them under preventive sections," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sandeshkhali-sex-abuse-row-tmc-leaders-tortured-tribals-snatched-mnrega-wages-reveals-ncst-probe-693639"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sandeshkhali-sex-abuse-row-tmc-leaders-tortured-tribals-snatched-mnrega-wages-reveals-ncst-probe-693639">Sandeshkhali sex abuse row: TMC leaders tortured tribals, snatched MNREGA wages, reveals NCST probe</a></p>

<p>The members of the fact-finding committee were halted by the police at Bhojerhat, South 24 Parganas, while they were on their way to the trouble-hit Sandeshkhali area in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas to probe the alleged incidents of atrocities on women.</p>

<p>Charu Wali Khanna, a member of the Fact-Finding Committee, expressing her dissatisfaction said, "We were visiting Sandeshkhali, but they have stopped us... Police have purposely stopped us and are creating problems for the common people. Police are not letting us meet the victims of Sandeshkhali..."</p>

<p>"We are sitting here obediently to oppose as they (police) have stopped us illegally, which is against our rights. We'll complain about it to the Chief Minister, Governor, Union Home Minister, and even to the Prime Minister," said another member of the Fact-Finding Committee, OP Vyas.</p>

<p>He further lashed out at the state government saying, "Unfortunately, police are executing illegal orders and taking the law into their own hands. We want to meet victims of Sandeshkhali."</p>

<p>Earlier, West Bengal Irrigation Minister Partha Bhowmick after an interaction with locals of Sandeshkhali said that not even a single woman raised the issue of assault.</p>

<h2><strong>'TMC in denial mode', says state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar</strong></h2>

<p>West Bengal Opposition leader and state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar, while responding to Bhowmick's statement said, "The TMC has been in denial mode since the beginning... But later, the police of the TMC government recorded the statement of two women under section 164 in front of the magistrate. Why was the action under 164 was carried out if there was no rape?"</p>

<p>He further hit out at the state government, saying, "Either Partha Bhowmik is lying or Mamata Banerjee and her police are lying... The case should be given to national investigation agencies otherwise the police will suppress the matter..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


West Bengal police on Sunday (Feb 25) arrested six members of an ‘independent’ fact-finding committee in Bhojerhat while they were headed to visit the unrest-hit Sandeshkhali region to meet local residents.

West Bengal police on Sunday (Feb 25) arrested six members of an ‘independent’ fact-finding committee in Bhojerhat while they were headed to visit the unrest-hit Sandeshkhali region to meet local residents. Following the arrest, the fact-finding team called on the Governor and expressed their strong protest against the illegal arrest and intimidation. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose asked for an immediate report from the Director General of Police (DGP). The panel was led by Justice Narsimha Reddy, Former Chief Justice of Patna High Court with members Charu Bali Khanna, Bhavna Bajaj, OP Vyas, Rajpal Singh, Aparna Banerjee and Bandana Biswas. After being detained the members of the committee were brought to PHQ Lal Bazaar Kolkata. "We were requesting them to not cross from here, but they were trying to break the police barricade unlawfully. So, we had to arrest them under Preventive Sections," said Saikat Ghosh, Deputy Commissioner, Bhangar Division, Kolkata Police. "If there is information of a 'breach of peace', police can arrest them under preventive sections," he added. Also read: Sandeshkhali sex abuse row: TMC leaders tortured tribals, snatched MNREGA wages, reveals NCST probe The members of the fact-finding committee were halted by the police at Bhojerhat, South 24 Parganas, while they were on their way to the trouble-hit Sandeshkhali area in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas to probe the alleged incidents of atrocities on women. Charu Wali Khanna, a member of the Fact-Finding Committee, expressing her dissatisfaction said, "We were visiting Sandeshkhali, but they have stopped us... Police have purposely stopped us and are creating problems for the common people. Police are not letting us meet the victims of Sandeshkhali..." "We are sitting here obediently to oppose as they (police) have stopped us illegally, which is against our rights. We'll complain about it to the Chief Minister, Governor, Union Home Minister, and even to the Prime Minister," said another member of the Fact-Finding Committee, OP Vyas. He further lashed out at the state government saying, "Unfortunately, police are executing illegal orders and taking the law into their own hands. We want to meet victims of Sandeshkhali." Earlier, West Bengal Irrigation Minister Partha Bhowmick after an interaction with locals of Sandeshkhali said that not even a single woman raised the issue of assault. 'TMC in denial mode', says state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar West Bengal Opposition leader and state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar, while responding to Bhowmick's statement said, "The TMC has been in denial mode since the beginning... But later, the police of the TMC government recorded the statement of two women under section 164 in front of the magistrate. Why was the action under 164 was carried out if there was no rape?" He further hit out at the state government, saying, "Either Partha Bhowmik is lying or Mamata Banerjee and her police are lying... The case should be given to national investigation agencies otherwise the police will suppress the matter..." (With inputs from agencies)

Sandeshkhali sex abuse row: West Bengal police arrest fact-finding panel members

<p>US and UK forces on Saturday (Feb 24) launched a fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen amid attacks on Red Sea shipping by the rebel group.</p>

<p>The strikes "specifically targeted 18 Houthi targets across eight locations in Yemen" &nbsp;which included weapons storage facilities, attack drones, air defence systems, radars and a helicopter, according to a joint statement.</p>

<p>It was co-signed by Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands and New Zealand.</p>

<p>All these countries gave unspecified "support" to the new round of strikes, which is the second such move in the month of February and the fourth since the Iran-backed rebels began launching targeted attacks at ships in the region.</p>

<p>"The Houthis' now more than 45 attacks on commercial and naval vessels since mid-November constitute a threat to the global economy, as well as regional security and stability, and demand an international response," the statement said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">U.S. Forces, Allies Conduct Joint Strikes in Yemen<br />
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On Feb. 24, at approximately 11:50 p.m. (Sanaa Yemen time), U.S. Central Command forces alongside UK Armed Forces, and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, conducted strikes… <a href="https://t.co/hAQ8Ftkihp">pic.twitter.com/hAQ8Ftkihp</a></p>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1761512889230479860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Houthi-run Al-Masirah television reported "a series of raids on the capital Sanaa," while AFP correspondents in the rebel-controlled city in western Yemen said they heard several loud bangs.</p>

<p>"The United States will not hesitate to take action, as needed, to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways," Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said in a separate statement after the strikes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-indian-navy-offers-medical-assistance-to-vessel-attacked-in-gulf-of-aden-693495">Middle East crisis: Indian Navy provides medical assistance to vessel attacked in Gulf of Aden</a></p>

<p>"We will continue to make clear to the Huthis that they will bear the consequences if they do not stop their illegal attacks, which harm Middle Eastern economies, cause environmental damage, and disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen and other countries,"&nbsp;Austin further said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">F/A-18 Super Hornets launch from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower supporting strikes against on Iranian-Backed Houthi Targets on Feb. 24. <a href="https://t.co/bTtRdsCkwg">pic.twitter.com/bTtRdsCkwg</a></p>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1761578794316640669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Houthi military vows "more qualitative military operations"</strong></h2>

<p>Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree released a statement on his social media statement vowing that rebels would "confront the American-British escalation with more qualitative military operations against all hostile targets in the Red and Arab Seas."</p>

<p>The UK Ministry of Defence said four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s targeted "several very long-range drones, used by the Houthis for both reconnaissance and attack missions," on Saturday, at a site northeast of Sanaa.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US and UK forces on Saturday (Feb 24) launched a fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen amid attacks on Red Sea shipping by the rebel group. The strikes "specifically targeted 18 Houthi targets across eight locations in Yemen" which included weapons storage facilities, attack drones, air defence systems, radars and a helicopter, according to a joint statement.

US and UK forces on Saturday (Feb 24) launched a fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen amid attacks on Red Sea shipping by the rebel group. The strikes "specifically targeted 18 Houthi targets across eight locations in Yemen" which included weapons storage facilities, attack drones, air defence systems, radars and a helicopter, according to a joint statement. It was co-signed by Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands and New Zealand. All these countries gave unspecified "support" to the new round of strikes, which is the second such move in the month of February and the fourth since the Iran-backed rebels began launching targeted attacks at ships in the region. "The Houthis' now more than 45 attacks on commercial and naval vessels since mid-November constitute a threat to the global economy, as well as regional security and stability, and demand an international response," the statement said. U.S. Forces, Allies Conduct Joint Strikes in Yemen On Feb. 24, at approximately 11:50 p.m. (Sanaa Yemen time), U.S. Central Command forces alongside UK Armed Forces, and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, conducted strikes… pic.twitter.com/hAQ8Ftkihp — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 24, 2024 × Houthi-run Al-Masirah television reported "a series of raids on the capital Sanaa," while AFP correspondents in the rebel-controlled city in western Yemen said they heard several loud bangs. "The United States will not hesitate to take action, as needed, to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world's most critical waterways," Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said in a separate statement after the strikes. Also read: Middle East crisis: Indian Navy provides medical assistance to vessel attacked in Gulf of Aden "We will continue to make clear to the Huthis that they will bear the consequences if they do not stop their illegal attacks, which harm Middle Eastern economies, cause environmental damage, and disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen and other countries," Austin further said. F/A-18 Super Hornets launch from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower supporting strikes against on Iranian-Backed Houthi Targets on Feb. 24. pic.twitter.com/bTtRdsCkwg — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 25, 2024 × Houthi military vows "more qualitative military operations" Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree released a statement on his social media statement vowing that rebels would "confront the American-British escalation with more qualitative military operations against all hostile targets in the Red and Arab Seas." The UK Ministry of Defence said four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s targeted "several very long-range drones, used by the Houthis for both reconnaissance and attack missions," on Saturday, at a site northeast of Sanaa. (With inputs from agencies)

US, UK launch fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen

<p>United States President Joe Biden, in yet another gaffe, left the audience baffled after he called his Chinese counterpart&nbsp;Xi Jinping&nbsp;the ‘head of Russia’ before correcting himself.</p>

<p>“He (Obama) wanted me to get to know (then Vice President) Xi Jinping because it was clear he was going to be the head of Russia (corrects himself) uuuh China and we were having problems with Russia at the time and other countries as well. So what he (Obama) said was get to know him (Jinping), he is going to be there," the US president said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking in the East Room of the White House during the Annual National Governors’ Association, Biden also reiterated his claim of travelling 17,000 miles with Xi Jinping which has previously been debunked by various local news outlets.</p>

<p>"He (Obama) couldn't because he was the President, so I travelled 17,000 miles with him throughout the country, in our country and in China as well. We were in the Tibet plateau and he turned to me and said: Can you define America for me? And I looked at him and suggested that I can in one word: Possibilities,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden struggles&nbsp;to recall Hamas' name during speech</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, in a similar goof-up, Biden seemingly forgot the Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference triggering severe backlash online.</p>

<p>On being asked about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser, Biden was heard saying, “There is some movement, and I don’t wanna, I don’t wanna …, let me choose my words — there’s some movement, there’s been.. a response from the, uh..”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haley-calls-trumps-comments-on-black-americans-liking-him-disgusting-693660">Haley calls Trump's comments on Black Americans liking him due to legal woes 'disgusting'</a></p>

<p>“There’s been a response … from … the opposition, but, um —” the 81-year-old said.</p>

<p>Seemingly confused Biden, after some guidance said, "Yes I am sorry, from Hamas."</p>

<h2><strong>Biden confuses French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, during a speech, Biden also confused his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand who died nearly three decades ago.</p>

<p>While addressing a crowd in Las Vegas ahead of the US state of Nevada’s primary on Feb 6, where he intended to say something that Macron had told him at a G7 meeting in 2020, the 81-year-old not only mixed up his French counterpart’s name but also misstated the name of the country he leads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was in the south of England. And I sat down and I said, ‘America is back,’ and Mitterrand from Germany, I mean from France, looked at me and said – said, ‘you know what – why – how long you back for?’” said Biden according to a White House transcript.</p>

<p>He added, “And I looked at him, and the — and the Chancellor of Germany said, ‘What would you say, Mr President, if you picked up the paper tomorrow in the London Times, and London Times said, ‘A thousand people break through the House of Commons, break down the doors, two Bobbies are killed in order to stop the election of the Prime Minister.’ What would you say?”</p>

<p>“I never thought about it from that perspective,” Biden said. “What would we say if that happened in another democracy around the world?”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden, in yet another gaffe, left the audience baffled after he called his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping the ‘head of Russia’ before correcting himself.

United States President Joe Biden, in yet another gaffe, left the audience baffled after he called his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping the ‘head of Russia’ before correcting himself. “He (Obama) wanted me to get to know (then Vice President) Xi Jinping because it was clear he was going to be the head of Russia (corrects himself) uuuh China and we were having problems with Russia at the time and other countries as well. So what he (Obama) said was get to know him (Jinping), he is going to be there," the US president said. While speaking in the East Room of the White House during the Annual National Governors’ Association, Biden also reiterated his claim of travelling 17,000 miles with Xi Jinping which has previously been debunked by various local news outlets. "He (Obama) couldn't because he was the President, so I travelled 17,000 miles with him throughout the country, in our country and in China as well. We were in the Tibet plateau and he turned to me and said: Can you define America for me? And I looked at him and suggested that I can in one word: Possibilities,” he added. Biden struggles to recall Hamas' name during speech Recently, in a similar goof-up, Biden seemingly forgot the Palestinian militant group Hamas' name during a press conference triggering severe backlash online. On being asked about the Israel-Hamas truce negotiations at the presser, Biden was heard saying, “There is some movement, and I don’t wanna, I don’t wanna …, let me choose my words — there’s some movement, there’s been.. a response from the, uh..” Also read: Haley calls Trump's comments on Black Americans liking him due to legal woes 'disgusting' “There’s been a response … from … the opposition, but, um —” the 81-year-old said. Seemingly confused Biden, after some guidance said, "Yes I am sorry, from Hamas." Biden confuses French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand Earlier, during a speech, Biden also confused his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron with France’s former leader Francois Mitterrand who died nearly three decades ago. While addressing a crowd in Las Vegas ahead of the US state of Nevada’s primary on Feb 6, where he intended to say something that Macron had told him at a G7 meeting in 2020, the 81-year-old not only mixed up his French counterpart’s name but also misstated the name of the country he leads. “It was in the south of England. And I sat down and I said, ‘America is back,’ and Mitterrand from Germany, I mean from France, looked at me and said – said, ‘you know what – why – how long you back for?’” said Biden according to a White House transcript. He added, “And I looked at him, and the — and the Chancellor of Germany said, ‘What would you say, Mr President, if you picked up the paper tomorrow in the London Times, and London Times said, ‘A thousand people break through the House of Commons, break down the doors, two Bobbies are killed in order to stop the election of the Prime Minister.’ What would you say?” “I never thought about it from that perspective,” Biden said. “What would we say if that happened in another democracy around the world?” (With inputs from agencies)

Biden refers to Xi Jinping as ‘head of Russia’ in yet another goof-up

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on his visit to the state of Gujarat, dived into the Arabian Sea on Sunday (Feb 25) and performed an underwater puja at the ancient site of Dwarka.</p>

<p>Dwarka, which was formerly a prosperous city, is thought to have been submerged under the sea centuries ago. It is known for its connection with Lord Krishna.</p>

<p>PM Modi put on scuba gear and dove into the blue seas to pray at the site which is rich in spiritual and historical significance.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister offered peacock feathers as a tribute to the ancient city.</p>

<p>Sharing his experience, he took to his official X account and wrote in a posting, "To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all. <a href="https://t.co/yUO9DJnYWo">pic.twitter.com/yUO9DJnYWo</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1761663670373769451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-inaugurates-indias-longest-cable-stayed-bridge-sudarshan-setu-in-gujarat-693601">PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat.</p>

<p>The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka and has been constructed at the cost of $118 million (Rs 979 crore).</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the inauguration of the bridge.</p>

<p>The foundation stone of the 2.3 km-long bridge was laid by PM Modi in the year 2017 and was aimed at connecting old Dwarka to the new.</p>

<p>"The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge has 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side," an official release said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sudarshan Setu portrays a distinctive architecture with a pathway adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and pictures of Lord Krishna on both sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, which generate one megawatt of electricity.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also offered prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna in Beyt Dwarka on Sunday morning.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on his visit to the state of Gujarat, dived into the Arabian Sea on Sunday (Feb 25) and performed an underwater puja at the ancient site of Dwarka.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on his visit to the state of Gujarat, dived into the Arabian Sea on Sunday (Feb 25) and performed an underwater puja at the ancient site of Dwarka. Dwarka, which was formerly a prosperous city, is thought to have been submerged under the sea centuries ago. It is known for its connection with Lord Krishna. PM Modi put on scuba gear and dove into the blue seas to pray at the site which is rich in spiritual and historical significance. The Indian prime minister offered peacock feathers as a tribute to the ancient city. Sharing his experience, he took to his official X account and wrote in a posting, "To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all." To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all. pic.twitter.com/yUO9DJnYWo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 25, 2024 × Also read: PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat. The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka and has been constructed at the cost of $118 million (Rs 979 crore). Prime Minister Modi was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the inauguration of the bridge. The foundation stone of the 2.3 km-long bridge was laid by PM Modi in the year 2017 and was aimed at connecting old Dwarka to the new. "The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge has 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side," an official release said. Sudarshan Setu portrays a distinctive architecture with a pathway adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and pictures of Lord Krishna on both sides. It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, which generate one megawatt of electricity. The Indian prime minister also offered prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna in Beyt Dwarka on Sunday morning. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an&nbsp;impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.</p>

<p>As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback.</p>

<p>Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent,&nbsp;followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent.</p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-wont-be-broadcast-for-next-three-months-heres-why-693667">Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why</a></p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving.</p>

<p>As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5.</p>

<p>In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>A consistent triumph for Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult. As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent, followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent. United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president. Also read: Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving. As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5. In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent. A consistent triumph for Modi Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said. These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi emerges as most popular global leader, tops the charts with high 78% approval rating

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 25) inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka.&nbsp;The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka&nbsp;and has been constructed at the cost of 11,81,19,678.60 USD (Rs 979 crore).</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the inauguration of the bridge.</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> | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. <a href="https://t.co/frysX0MZS1">pic.twitter.com/frysX0MZS1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761589119111553383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking ahead of the inauguration of his 'dream project', PM Modi said that it would mark a momentous occasion in developmental journey of Gujarat.</p>

<p>Taking to his official X account, the Indian prime minister said, "Tomorrow is a special day for Gujarat's growth trajectory. Among the several projects being inaugurated is the Sudarshan Setu, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. This is a stunning project which will enhance connectivity."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tomorrow is a special day for Gujarat’s growth trajectory. Among the several projects being inaugurated is the Sudarshan Setu, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. This is a stunning project which will enhance connectivity. <a href="https://t.co/Pmq2lhu27u">pic.twitter.com/Pmq2lhu27u</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1761390501167583472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The foundation stone of the&nbsp;2.3 km-long bridge was laid by PM Modi&nbsp;in the year 2017, and was aimed at&nbsp;connecting old Dwarka to new.</p>

<p>"The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge has 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side," an official release said. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. <a href="https://t.co/4OpY0ekCDH">pic.twitter.com/4OpY0ekCDH</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761590565966106949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sudarshan Setu Features</strong></h2>

<p>Sudarshan Setu portrays a distinctive architecture with a pathway adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and pictures of Lord Krishna on both sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, which generate&nbsp;one megawatt of electricity.</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> | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. <a href="https://t.co/uLPn4EYnFM">pic.twitter.com/uLPn4EYnFM</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761592297639006394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier known as 'Signature Bridge', it was renamed as 'Sudarshan Setu'.</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> | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to shortly inaugurate Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. <a href="https://t.co/rFPAT2q4lB">pic.twitter.com/rFPAT2q4lB</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761579920734503227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi offers prayers at Dwarka Temple</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister also offered prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna in Beyt Dwarka, an island near Okha port during his visit.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs pooja and darshan at Beyt Dwarka temple. <a href="https://t.co/U2gZUVB3k4">pic.twitter.com/U2gZUVB3k4</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761585992853491996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is also set to inaugurate the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) indoor-patient department in Rajkot later today.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-varanasi-distributes-prizes-to-winners-of-sansad-sanskrit-pratiyogita-693028">PM Modi, in Varanasi, says India will witness new pace of development in next five years</a></p>

<p>Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi on Saturday said, "The way Dwaraka is decorated during Janmashtami similarly, ahead of PM Modi's arrival the people have decorated the entire city. Everyone is very eager for the arrival of the Prime Minister."</p>

<p>"PM Modi will be visiting Rajkot on February 25. He will be dedicating several projects to the city... Rajkot All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) indoor-patient department having 250 beds will be officially inaugurated," he told news agency ANI.</p>

<p>Under the goal of 'Ayushman Bharat, Viksit Bharat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate five new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to the country on February 25 from Rajkot in Gujarat.</p>

<p>The five new AIIMS are AIIMS Rajkot, AIIMS Mangalagiri, AIIMS Bathinda, AIIMS Raebareli, and AIIMS Kalyani.</p>

<p>PM Modi will also inaugurate various medical colleges and nursing colleges across the country.</p>

<p>All the healthcare projects are worth 137.42 USD (Rs 11,391.79 Crore).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 25) inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka. The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka and has been constructed at the cost of 11,81,19,678.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 25) inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka. The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka and has been constructed at the cost of 11,81,19,678.60 USD (Rs 979 crore). Prime Minister Modi was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the inauguration of the bridge. #WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. pic.twitter.com/frysX0MZS1 — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × Speaking ahead of the inauguration of his 'dream project', PM Modi said that it would mark a momentous occasion in developmental journey of Gujarat. Taking to his official X account, the Indian prime minister said, "Tomorrow is a special day for Gujarat's growth trajectory. Among the several projects being inaugurated is the Sudarshan Setu, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. This is a stunning project which will enhance connectivity." Tomorrow is a special day for Gujarat’s growth trajectory. Among the several projects being inaugurated is the Sudarshan Setu, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. This is a stunning project which will enhance connectivity. pic.twitter.com/Pmq2lhu27u — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2024 × The foundation stone of the 2.3 km-long bridge was laid by PM Modi in the year 2017, and was aimed at connecting old Dwarka to new. "The four-lane 27.20 metre wide bridge has 2.50 metre wide footpaths on each side," an official release said. #WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. pic.twitter.com/4OpY0ekCDH — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × Sudarshan Setu Features Sudarshan Setu portrays a distinctive architecture with a pathway adorned with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and pictures of Lord Krishna on both sides. It also has solar panels installed on the upper portions of the footpath, which generate one megawatt of electricity. #WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. pic.twitter.com/uLPn4EYnFM — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × Earlier known as 'Signature Bridge', it was renamed as 'Sudarshan Setu'. #WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to shortly inaugurate Sudarshan Setu, country’s longest cable-stayed bridge of around 2.32 km, connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. pic.twitter.com/rFPAT2q4lB — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × PM Modi offers prayers at Dwarka Temple The Indian prime minister also offered prayers at the Dwarkadhish temple of Lord Krishna in Beyt Dwarka, an island near Okha port during his visit. #WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs pooja and darshan at Beyt Dwarka temple. pic.twitter.com/U2gZUVB3k4 — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × He is also set to inaugurate the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) indoor-patient department in Rajkot later today. Also read: PM Modi, in Varanasi, says India will witness new pace of development in next five years Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi on Saturday said, "The way Dwaraka is decorated during Janmashtami similarly, ahead of PM Modi's arrival the people have decorated the entire city. Everyone is very eager for the arrival of the Prime Minister." "PM Modi will be visiting Rajkot on February 25. He will be dedicating several projects to the city... Rajkot All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) indoor-patient department having 250 beds will be officially inaugurated," he told news agency ANI. Under the goal of 'Ayushman Bharat, Viksit Bharat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate five new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to the country on February 25 from Rajkot in Gujarat. The five new AIIMS are AIIMS Rajkot, AIIMS Mangalagiri, AIIMS Bathinda, AIIMS Raebareli, and AIIMS Kalyani. PM Modi will also inaugurate various medical colleges and nursing colleges across the country. All the healthcare projects are worth 137.42 USD (Rs 11,391.79 Crore). (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge 'Sudarshan Setu' in Gujarat

<p>As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers".</p>

<p>"Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said.</p>

<p>He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While&nbsp;on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29.</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> | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… <a href="https://t.co/Zm1GTAWZ1g">pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761556928818270553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and&nbsp;Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in&nbsp;view of the protest.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-to-hold-candle-march-as-toll-amid-protest-reaches-four-693322">Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tikait urges for solution through dialogue</strong></h2>

<p>Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue.</p>

<p>"People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled. He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers". "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said. He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29. #WATCH | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × "On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added. Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in view of the protest. Also read: Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four Tikait urges for solution through dialogue Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue. "People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian farmers vow to continue agitation until demands fulfilled, state border reopens partially

<p>Former US president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the South Carolina primary on Saturday (Feb 24), defeating Nikki Haley in her home state in the nomination race, according to media projections. In other news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated country's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wins-south-carolina-primary-defeating-haley-in-her-home-state-693578">Trump wins South Carolina primary, defeating Haley in her home state</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/24/407647-untitled-design-2024-01-24t121850738.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Reports showed Trump had garnered as much as 58.5 per cent votes, compared to Haley's 41 per cent in the voting which provides him 29 delegates from the state.&nbsp;"It's an early evening and a fantastic evening. We can celebrate for about 15 minutes and then we have to get back to work," Trump told a room of boisterous supporters after the win.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-launch-fresh-wave-of-strikes-against-18-houthi-targets-in-yemen-693591">US, UK launch fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/25/414300-succession-2024-02-25t075755854.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>US and UK forces on Saturday (Feb 24) launched a fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen amid attacks on Red Sea shipping by the rebel group.&nbsp;The strikes "specifically targeted 18 Houthi targets across eight locations in Yemen" &nbsp;which included weapons storage facilities, attack drones, air defence systems, radars and a helicopter, according to a joint statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-inaugurates-indias-longest-cable-stayed-bridge-sudarshan-setu-in-gujarat-693601">PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/25/414283-succession-2024-02-25t084914685.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 25) inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka.&nbsp;The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka&nbsp;and has been constructed at the cost of 11,81,19,678.60 USD (Rs 979 crore).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-cabinet-to-approve-netanyahu-and-idf-plans-for-rafah-ground-operation-next-week-693579">Israeli cabinet to approve IDF's plans for Rafah ground offensive next week</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/08/410696-yearender-2023-31.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the cabinet will convene next week to discuss and approve&nbsp;Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) plans to launch a ground offensive in Rafah - the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;Netanyahu added that the meeting will also include plans for the evacuation of civilians from the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: CPAC 2024: In his conservative conference speech, Trump calls himself a 'proud political dissident'</strong></p>

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Former US president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the South Carolina primary on Saturday (Feb 24), defeating Nikki Haley in her home state in the nomination race, according to media projections.

Former US president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the South Carolina primary on Saturday (Feb 24), defeating Nikki Haley in her home state in the nomination race, according to media projections. In other news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated country's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka. Click on the headlines to read more. Trump wins South Carolina primary, defeating Haley in her home state Reports showed Trump had garnered as much as 58.5 per cent votes, compared to Haley's 41 per cent in the voting which provides him 29 delegates from the state. "It's an early evening and a fantastic evening. We can celebrate for about 15 minutes and then we have to get back to work," Trump told a room of boisterous supporters after the win. US, UK launch fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen US and UK forces on Saturday (Feb 24) launched a fresh wave of strikes against 18 Houthi targets in Yemen amid attacks on Red Sea shipping by the rebel group. The strikes "specifically targeted 18 Houthi targets across eight locations in Yemen" which included weapons storage facilities, attack drones, air defence systems, radars and a helicopter, according to a joint statement. PM Modi inaugurates India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 25) inaugurated India's longest cable-stayed bridge in Gujarat's Dwarka. The Sudarshan Setu connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka and has been constructed at the cost of 11,81,19,678.60 USD (Rs 979 crore). Israeli cabinet to approve IDF's plans for Rafah ground offensive next week Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the cabinet will convene next week to discuss and approve Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) plans to launch a ground offensive in Rafah - the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu added that the meeting will also include plans for the evacuation of civilians from the area. Watch: CPAC 2024: In his conservative conference speech, Trump calls himself a 'proud political dissident' ×

Morning brief: Trump defeats Haley in her home state, PM Modi inaugurates 'Sudarshan Setu', and more

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