Former United States president Donald Trump abruptly rose and walked out of the courtroom on Friday (Jan 26) during the closing arguments of his defamation trial in New York.

Trump, who&nbsp;has been found to have defamed E Jean Carroll over the comments he made about her during the time when he was the US president, stormed out of the court as Carroll's lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, stated that the ex-president was a "liar" who feels that "rules do not apply to him."

After Trump's dramatic departure from the court, US District Judge Lewis Kaplan said, "the record will reflect that Mr Trump just rose and walked out of the courtroom".&nbsp;

Carroll's lawyer also told the jury, "he thinks with his wealth and power he can treat Ms Carroll how he wants and will suffer no consequences."

He then came back to the courtroom an hour later, at the time of his own attorney's closing remarks.

Before walking out, reportedly, Trump kept nodding his head when the lawyer brought up allegations against the former president that he sexually assaulted Carroll.

At the time of her closing arguments, Kaplan said that Trump had severely attacked Carroll's reputation by repeatedly denying the sexual assault accusations.

"This case is also about punishing Donald Trump," the lawyer said and added,&nbsp;"this trial is about getting him to stop once and for all".&nbsp;

She said that Trump had "continued to defame Ms Carroll even as this trial was ongoing".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-refusal-republican-national-committee-pulls-resolution-declaring-him-presumptive-2024-nominee-683800">After Trump's refusal, Republican National Committee pulls resolution declaring him 'Presumptive 2024 Nominee'</a>

<h2>Trump denies Carroll's sexual abuse claims</h2>

On Thursday (Jan 25) Trump reiterated that Carroll's sexual assault allegation against him was a hoax.

Standing by his earlier testimony, he said that his comments in an October 2022 deposition in Carroll's case were "100 per cent" accurate.

Earlier on Thursday, Carroll's lawyers played videotaped excerpts from the deposition, in which Trump called the former Elle magazine advice columnist "mentally sick" and a "whack job," and also threatened to sue her.

"It's a false accusation, never happened, never would happen," Trump said in the deposition.

Eighty-year-old writer Carroll is seeking at least $10 million over Trump's June 2019 denials, when he was president, that he had raped her in the mid-1990s in a Bergdorf Goodman department store dressing room in Manhattan.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former United States president Donald Trump abruptly rose and walked out of the courtroom on Friday (Jan 26) during the closing arguments of his defamation trial in New York.

Former United States president Donald Trump abruptly rose and walked out of the courtroom on Friday (Jan 26) during the closing arguments of his defamation trial in New York. Trump, who has been found to have defamed E Jean Carroll over the comments he made about her during the time when he was the US president, stormed out of the court as Carroll's lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, stated that the ex-president was a "liar" who feels that "rules do not apply to him." After Trump's dramatic departure from the court, US District Judge Lewis Kaplan said, "the record will reflect that Mr Trump just rose and walked out of the courtroom". Carroll's lawyer also told the jury, "he thinks with his wealth and power he can treat Ms Carroll how he wants and will suffer no consequences." He then came back to the courtroom an hour later, at the time of his own attorney's closing remarks. Before walking out, reportedly, Trump kept nodding his head when the lawyer brought up allegations against the former president that he sexually assaulted Carroll. At the time of her closing arguments, Kaplan said that Trump had severely attacked Carroll's reputation by repeatedly denying the sexual assault accusations. "This case is also about punishing Donald Trump," the lawyer said and added, "this trial is about getting him to stop once and for all". She said that Trump had "continued to defame Ms Carroll even as this trial was ongoing". Also read: After Trump's refusal, Republican National Committee pulls resolution declaring him 'Presumptive 2024 Nominee' Trump denies Carroll's sexual abuse claims On Thursday (Jan 25) Trump reiterated that Carroll's sexual assault allegation against him was a hoax. Standing by his earlier testimony, he said that his comments in an October 2022 deposition in Carroll's case were "100 per cent" accurate. Earlier on Thursday, Carroll's lawyers played videotaped excerpts from the deposition, in which Trump called the former Elle magazine advice columnist "mentally sick" and a "whack job," and also threatened to sue her. "It's a false accusation, never happened, never would happen," Trump said in the deposition. Eighty-year-old writer Carroll is seeking at least $10 million over Trump's June 2019 denials, when he was president, that he had raped her in the mid-1990s in a Bergdorf Goodman department store dressing room in Manhattan. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump abruptly storms out of courtroom during closing arguments of E Jean Carroll defamation trial

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party&nbsp;Janata Dal (United)&nbsp;on Friday (Jan 26), shunned&nbsp;rumours of&nbsp;return to BJP-led NDA stating&nbsp;that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition".&nbsp;

However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats.

"All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters.

He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna".

He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition".

Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trouble-in-india-paradise-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-may-return-to-bjp-led-nda-fold-sources-683841">Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports</a>

<h2>Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours</h2>

On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda".

"Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said.

During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner -&nbsp;chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar.

The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". 
Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies".

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition". However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats. "All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters. He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna". He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition". Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls". Also read: Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda". "Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said. During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner - chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar. The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar's JD (U) says 'firmly with INDIA bloc, want Congress to do introspection'

In a shocking development, new pictures have surfaced showing Hermit crabs adorning plastic shells as a safety net for their bodies amid a surge in levels of pollution in oceans across the globe.

The discovery, based on the analysis of photos taken by wildlife enthusiasts, has been published in the journal Science of the Total Environment.

Scientists, expressing anguish over the current wildlife situation, said that they were heartbroken to witness the extent to which the animals were suffering and the way they were living on human-generated waste.

They said the pictures showed nearly two-thirds of hermit crab species in "artificial shells", the items that were discarded by humans.

One of the researchers Marta Szulkin, who is an urban ecologist from the University of Warsaw, said, "We started to notice something completely out of the ordinary. Instead of being adorned with a beautiful snail shell, which is what we're used to seeing - they would have a red plastic bottle cap on their back or piece of light bulb."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/its-official-us-is-not-able-to-defend-itself-against-an-alien-invasion-684284">It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion</a>

Szulkin and her fellow colleagues, Łukasz Dylewski, from Poznan University of Life Sciences and Zuzanna Jagiello from the University of Warsaw found that a total of 386 crabs were using plastic caps as their shells.

"According to our calculations, 10 out of the 16 species of land hermit crabs in the world use this type of shelter and it's been observed in all tropical regions of the Earth," Prof Szulkin explained.

However, it is unclear if these materials are even helpful for marine creatures.

"When I first saw these pictures, I felt it was heart-breaking," BBC Radio 4's Inside Science quoted Prof Szulkin as saying.&nbsp;

"At the same time, I think we really need to understand the fact that we are living in a different era and animals are making use of what is available to them," the professor added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking development, new pictures have surfaced showing Hermit crabs adorning plastic shells as a safety net for their bodies amid a surge in levels of pollution in oceans across the globe.

In a shocking development, new pictures have surfaced showing Hermit crabs adorning plastic shells as a safety net for their bodies amid a surge in levels of pollution in oceans across the globe. The discovery, based on the analysis of photos taken by wildlife enthusiasts, has been published in the journal Science of the Total Environment. Scientists, expressing anguish over the current wildlife situation, said that they were heartbroken to witness the extent to which the animals were suffering and the way they were living on human-generated waste. They said the pictures showed nearly two-thirds of hermit crab species in "artificial shells", the items that were discarded by humans. One of the researchers Marta Szulkin, who is an urban ecologist from the University of Warsaw, said, "We started to notice something completely out of the ordinary. Instead of being adorned with a beautiful snail shell, which is what we're used to seeing - they would have a red plastic bottle cap on their back or piece of light bulb." Also read: It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion Szulkin and her fellow colleagues, Łukasz Dylewski, from Poznan University of Life Sciences and Zuzanna Jagiello from the University of Warsaw found that a total of 386 crabs were using plastic caps as their shells. "According to our calculations, 10 out of the 16 species of land hermit crabs in the world use this type of shelter and it's been observed in all tropical regions of the Earth," Prof Szulkin explained. However, it is unclear if these materials are even helpful for marine creatures. "When I first saw these pictures, I felt it was heart-breaking," BBC Radio 4's Inside Science quoted Prof Szulkin as saying. "At the same time, I think we really need to understand the fact that we are living in a different era and animals are making use of what is available to them," the professor added. (With inputs from agencies)

Hermit crabs found using discarded plastic waste as form of armour

Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May. 
BJP chief JP Nadda on Saturday appointed election in-charges and co-incharges for various states on Saturday.

According to a BJP release, former Tripura Chief Biplab Kumar Deb has been appointed election in-charge for Haryana. Surendra Singh Nagar will be co-in-charge of the state.

In Bihar, Deepak Prakash will assist Vinod Tawde as co-incharge.

Party leader Shrikant Sharma will be in charge of Himachal Pradesh and Sanjay Tandon will be the co-in-charge of the state.

Tarun Chugh and Laxmikant Bajpai have been made election in-charges of Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand respectively.

Radha Mohan Das Agarwal will be poll in-charge Karnataka and Sudhakar Reddy is the co-in-charge of Karnataka

Mangal Pandey has been appointed as election in-charge of West Bengal while Amit Malviya and Asha Lakra have been appointed as co-in-charges for the state.

The responsibility of the poll in charge for Lakshadweep and Tamil Nadu has been given to Arvind Menon, and Mahendra Singh will be the poll in charge for Madhya Pradesh.

Satish Upadhyay will be co-incharge of Madhya Pradesh.

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been named election in-charge of the union territory of Chandigarh as also Punjab. Narinder Singh is the co-in-charge of Punjab.

Satya Kumar Y will be the election in charge of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and for Daman and Diu it is Purnesh Modi. Dushyant Patel is the co-in-charge of Daman and Diu.

Ashish Sood has been appointed poll in-charge for Goa and Tarun Chugh for Ladakh.

Vijaypal Singh Tomar has been appointed as the election in-charge for Odisha and Nirmal Kumar Surana for Puducherry. Lata Usendi is co-in-charge of Odisha.

Dilip Kumar Jaiswal has been appointed election in-charge for Sikkim and Dushyant Kumar Gautam for Uttarakhand. 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May.

Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May. BJP chief JP Nadda on Saturday appointed election in-charges and co-incharges for various states on Saturday. According to a BJP release, former Tripura Chief Biplab Kumar Deb has been appointed election in-charge for Haryana. Surendra Singh Nagar will be co-in-charge of the state. In Bihar, Deepak Prakash will assist Vinod Tawde as co-incharge. Party leader Shrikant Sharma will be in charge of Himachal Pradesh and Sanjay Tandon will be the co-in-charge of the state. Tarun Chugh and Laxmikant Bajpai have been made election in-charges of Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand respectively. Radha Mohan Das Agarwal will be poll in-charge Karnataka and Sudhakar Reddy is the co-in-charge of Karnataka Mangal Pandey has been appointed as election in-charge of West Bengal while Amit Malviya and Asha Lakra have been appointed as co-in-charges for the state. The responsibility of the poll in charge for Lakshadweep and Tamil Nadu has been given to Arvind Menon, and Mahendra Singh will be the poll in charge for Madhya Pradesh. Satish Upadhyay will be co-incharge of Madhya Pradesh. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been named election in-charge of the union territory of Chandigarh as also Punjab. Narinder Singh is the co-in-charge of Punjab. Satya Kumar Y will be the election in charge of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and for Daman and Diu it is Purnesh Modi. Dushyant Patel is the co-in-charge of Daman and Diu. Ashish Sood has been appointed poll in-charge for Goa and Tarun Chugh for Ladakh. Vijaypal Singh Tomar has been appointed as the election in-charge for Odisha and Nirmal Kumar Surana for Puducherry. Lata Usendi is co-in-charge of Odisha. Dilip Kumar Jaiswal has been appointed election in-charge for Sikkim and Dushyant Kumar Gautam for Uttarakhand.

BJP appoints state election in-charges for Lok Sabha polls

Janata Dal-United&nbsp;leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers.

After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD.&nbsp;

Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support.

<h2>‘We will stay together,’&nbsp;says Kumar in his first response after taking oath</h2>

The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now."

"I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday.

On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-politics-who-are-samrat-choudhary-and-vijay-sinha-the-two-deputy-chief-ministers-in-new-government-684594">Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government</a>

"We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else,"&nbsp;he added.

<h2>Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav</h2>

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months."

He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.

Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."

"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.

(With inputs from agencies)

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers. After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD. Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. ‘We will stay together,’ says Kumar in his first response after taking oath The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now." "I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday. On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state. Also read: Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government "We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else," he added. Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months." He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar politics: Nitish Kumar takes oath as chief minister, with 2 deputy CMs from BJP

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states.

Issuing a statement, the leaders of the three Sahel nations said that it was a "sovereign decision" to withdraw from the West African bloc "without delay".

The decision by the countries was announced in a joint statement read out on Niger national television.

The military leaders further argued that they wanted to restore security in their respective countries before organising elections.

"After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism," Colonel Amadou Abdramane, Niger junta spokesman, said in the statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-elections-finns-head-to-polls-in-tight-race-amid-russia-tensions-684565">Finland elections: Finns head to polls in tight presidential race, amid Russia tensions</a>

They also accused the 15-member grouping of not being able to contribute to their fight against insurgencies linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State.

"The organization notably failed to assist these states in their existential fight against terrorism and insecurity," Abdramane added.

<h2>ECOWAS says ready for 'negotiated solution'&nbsp;</h2>

After Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal, ECOWAS released a statement on Sunday (Jan 28) saying that it was ready for "a negotiated solution".

The three countries are "important members of the Community" and the bloc "remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse", said ECOWAS.

It further added that it had "yet to receive any direct formal notification" from the countries about their exit. &nbsp;

Struggling to contain jihadist violence and poverty, the regimes have had strained ties with ECOWAS, especially after the military coups took place in Niger last July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020 respectively.

The three nations were then suspended from the West African bloc with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions.

They have toughened their stance in recent months and joined forces in an "Alliance of Sahel States".

France in September withdrew its troops from the Sahel region, situated along the Sahara desert across Africa, intensified concerns over the conflicts extending southward to the Gulf of Guinea states of Ghana, Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states.

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger on Sunday (Jan 28) announced that they were leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with immediate effect, stating it has become a threat to member states. Issuing a statement, the leaders of the three Sahel nations said that it was a "sovereign decision" to withdraw from the West African bloc "without delay". The decision by the countries was announced in a joint statement read out on Niger national television. The military leaders further argued that they wanted to restore security in their respective countries before organising elections. "After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism," Colonel Amadou Abdramane, Niger junta spokesman, said in the statement. Also read: Finland elections: Finns head to polls in tight presidential race, amid Russia tensions They also accused the 15-member grouping of not being able to contribute to their fight against insurgencies linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. "The organization notably failed to assist these states in their existential fight against terrorism and insecurity," Abdramane added. ECOWAS says ready for 'negotiated solution' After Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal, ECOWAS released a statement on Sunday (Jan 28) saying that it was ready for "a negotiated solution". The three countries are "important members of the Community" and the bloc "remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse", said ECOWAS. It further added that it had "yet to receive any direct formal notification" from the countries about their exit. Struggling to contain jihadist violence and poverty, the regimes have had strained ties with ECOWAS, especially after the military coups took place in Niger last July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020 respectively. The three nations were then suspended from the West African bloc with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions. They have toughened their stance in recent months and joined forces in an "Alliance of Sahel States". France in September withdrew its troops from the Sahel region, situated along the Sahara desert across Africa, intensified concerns over the conflicts extending southward to the Gulf of Guinea states of Ghana, Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Coup-hit Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger quit ECOWAS regional block

In a shocking development, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang was set on fire in the north-Indian state of Haryana after being tied up, the police said on Monday (Jan 29).

According to local media reports, the deceased gangster, identified as Rajan, was involved in several gang fights.

The deceased Rajan's hands and legs were tied before he was set on fire in Haryana's Yamunanagar district near a riverside.

Lawrence Bishnoi gang's rival Davinder Bambiha claimed responsibility for Rajan's killing via a social media post and named the person who he claimed carried out the task.

The police reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and said that the officials had initiated an inquiry into the matter.

The deceased's half-burnt body was identified by his relative who stated that he had cut off ties long back with his family members.

Rajan, who was a resident of Ladwa, is survived by his wife and a child but he had been living away from his family for over a year, informed his relative.

Police said that the reason behind Rajan's murder is not yet known.

It is pertinent to note that the Bishnoi gang was behind the killing of famous Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022.

Canada-based gangster Goldy Brar took responsibility for the murder of Moosewala.

Brar is a close associate of Lawrence Bishnoi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-delhi-airport-leads-to-suspension-of-security-personnel-684632">Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended</a>

<h2>Rajasthan cops arrest members of Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara gangs</h2>

Meanwhile, the Rajasthan police arrested seven members of the Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara gangs from different locations of Phalodi district, police said on Saturday (Jan 27).

The police raided 13 different locations in several areas including Lohawat, Bhojasar and Matora, early on Friday morning, said Phalodi SP Hanuman Prasad.

"We succeeded in arresting 7 members associated with the gangs of Bishnoi and Godara in raids at 13 spots on Friday early morning after a verification of the intelligence inputs," said Prasad.

He further added that the police had also seized two vehicles from the&nbsp;arrested.

The vehicles did not have registration plates.

"Some from the list were not found at the given addresses. We have been constantly keeping ourselves alert about their whereabouts and will arrest them as well as soon as we receive any tip-off," the SP said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking development, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang was set on fire in the north-Indian state of Haryana after being tied up, the police said on Monday (Jan 29).

In a shocking development, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang was set on fire in the north-Indian state of Haryana after being tied up, the police said on Monday (Jan 29). According to local media reports, the deceased gangster, identified as Rajan, was involved in several gang fights. The deceased Rajan's hands and legs were tied before he was set on fire in Haryana's Yamunanagar district near a riverside. Lawrence Bishnoi gang's rival Davinder Bambiha claimed responsibility for Rajan's killing via a social media post and named the person who he claimed carried out the task. The police reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and said that the officials had initiated an inquiry into the matter. The deceased's half-burnt body was identified by his relative who stated that he had cut off ties long back with his family members. Rajan, who was a resident of Ladwa, is survived by his wife and a child but he had been living away from his family for over a year, informed his relative. Police said that the reason behind Rajan's murder is not yet known. It is pertinent to note that the Bishnoi gang was behind the killing of famous Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022. Canada-based gangster Goldy Brar took responsibility for the murder of Moosewala. Brar is a close associate of Lawrence Bishnoi. Also read: Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended Rajasthan cops arrest members of Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara gangs Meanwhile, the Rajasthan police arrested seven members of the Lawrence Bishnoi and Rohit Godara gangs from different locations of Phalodi district, police said on Saturday (Jan 27). The police raided 13 different locations in several areas including Lohawat, Bhojasar and Matora, early on Friday morning, said Phalodi SP Hanuman Prasad. "We succeeded in arresting 7 members associated with the gangs of Bishnoi and Godara in raids at 13 spots on Friday early morning after a verification of the intelligence inputs," said Prasad. He further added that the police had also seized two vehicles from the arrested. The vehicles did not have registration plates. "Some from the list were not found at the given addresses. We have been constantly keeping ourselves alert about their whereabouts and will arrest them as well as soon as we receive any tip-off," the SP said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang member tied up, set on fire in Haryana

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April.

The vacancies also include seats held by nine Union ministers, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.

The nomination process will begin on February 8 with the issuance of the notification. 
 
February 15 will be the last date for filing nominations while February 20 is the last date to withdraw candidature. 
 
As per the established practice, voting will take place from 9 am to 4 pm, and counting will be held on the same day from 5 pm onwards.

While 50 members retire on April 2, six do so on April 3, the EC said.

Others retiring in April include BJD members Prashanta Nanda and Amar Patnaik (Odisha), BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni (Uttarakhand) and Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala, and Congress members Naranbhai Rathwa and Amee Yagnik from Gujarat.

Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, MSME Minister Narayan Rane, former Union minister Prakash Javadekar, Congress member Kumar Ketkar, NCP member Vandana Chavan and Shiv Sena (UBT) member Anil Desai are retiring from Maharashtra.

Uttar Pradesh will have the highest number of vacancies of 10 seats, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar (six each), Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal (five each), Karnataka and Gujarat (four each), Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan (three each), and Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Chhattisgarh (one each).

For renomination to Rajya Sabha, BJP president J P Nadda will have to look for a seat outside his home state of Himachal Pradesh as the Congress is in power there.

The Congress can also look forward to sending its nominees to the Upper House of Parliament from Karnataka and Telangana -- the states where it came to power last year. In Karnataka, four Rajya Sabha members are retiring, and in Telangana three.

The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to gain around six seats -- two each in Maharashtra, Bihar and Gujarat -- in the Rajya Sabha after the February 27 elections, with the JD(U) and the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar having joined the ruling coalition.

The NDA's current strength in the Upper House of Parliament stands at 114, including 93 of the BJP. The Congress has 30 seats, the second highest.

In Maharashtra, the Rajya Sabha elections will be keenly watched after the political realignment in the state due to splits in the NCP and the Shiv Sena.

In Karnataka, the retiring members are Rajeev Chandrasekhar of the BJP and L Hanumanthaiah, G C Chandrashekhar and Syed Nasir Hussain of the Congress.

BRS' Joginipally Santosh Kumar Ravichandra Vaddiraju and B Lingaiah Yadav are the retiring members from Telangana. The Congress, which is ruling in Telangana, can hope to send at least two of its nominees to Rajya Sabha from the state.

From West Bengal, Trinamool Congress members Abir Ranjan Biswas, Subhasish Chakraborty, Mohammed Nadimul Haque and Santanu Sen, and Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi are retiring from the Upper House of Parliament.

In Bihar, RJD members Manoj Kumar Jha and Ahmad Ashfaque Karim, JD(U) members Aneel Prasad Hegde and Bashistha Narain Singh, BJP member Sushil Kumar Modi and Congress member Akhilesh Prasad Singh are completing their tenures in the Rajya Sabha.

BJP members Anil Agrawal, Ashok Bajpai, Anil Jain, Kanta Kardam, Sakaldeep Rajbhar, GVL Narasimha Rao, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Sudhanshu Trivedi and Harnath Singh Yadav, and Samajwadi Party member Jaya Bachchan from Uttar Pradesh are retiring.

TDP member Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, BJP member C M Ramesh and YSRCP member Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy from Andhra Pradesh are retiring from Rajya Sabha.

BJP members Saroj Pandey and D P Vats are retiring from Chhattisgarh and Haryana respectively. 
Separately, four nominated members are retiring in July while two nominated seats are vacant. 
 
Among the nominated members retiring in July are Mahesh Jethmalani, Sonal Mansingh, Ram Shakal and Rakesh Sinha of the BJP. 
&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April. The vacancies also include seats held by nine Union ministers, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The nomination process will begin on February 8 with the issuance of the notification. February 15 will be the last date for filing nominations while February 20 is the last date to withdraw candidature. As per the established practice, voting will take place from 9 am to 4 pm, and counting will be held on the same day from 5 pm onwards. While 50 members retire on April 2, six do so on April 3, the EC said. Others retiring in April include BJD members Prashanta Nanda and Amar Patnaik (Odisha), BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni (Uttarakhand) and Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala, and Congress members Naranbhai Rathwa and Amee Yagnik from Gujarat. Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, MSME Minister Narayan Rane, former Union minister Prakash Javadekar, Congress member Kumar Ketkar, NCP member Vandana Chavan and Shiv Sena (UBT) member Anil Desai are retiring from Maharashtra. Uttar Pradesh will have the highest number of vacancies of 10 seats, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar (six each), Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal (five each), Karnataka and Gujarat (four each), Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan (three each), and Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Chhattisgarh (one each). For renomination to Rajya Sabha, BJP president J P Nadda will have to look for a seat outside his home state of Himachal Pradesh as the Congress is in power there. The Congress can also look forward to sending its nominees to the Upper House of Parliament from Karnataka and Telangana -- the states where it came to power last year. In Karnataka, four Rajya Sabha members are retiring, and in Telangana three. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to gain around six seats -- two each in Maharashtra, Bihar and Gujarat -- in the Rajya Sabha after the February 27 elections, with the JD(U) and the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar having joined the ruling coalition. The NDA's current strength in the Upper House of Parliament stands at 114, including 93 of the BJP. The Congress has 30 seats, the second highest. In Maharashtra, the Rajya Sabha elections will be keenly watched after the political realignment in the state due to splits in the NCP and the Shiv Sena. In Karnataka, the retiring members are Rajeev Chandrasekhar of the BJP and L Hanumanthaiah, G C Chandrashekhar and Syed Nasir Hussain of the Congress. BRS' Joginipally Santosh Kumar Ravichandra Vaddiraju and B Lingaiah Yadav are the retiring members from Telangana. The Congress, which is ruling in Telangana, can hope to send at least two of its nominees to Rajya Sabha from the state. From West Bengal, Trinamool Congress members Abir Ranjan Biswas, Subhasish Chakraborty, Mohammed Nadimul Haque and Santanu Sen, and Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi are retiring from the Upper House of Parliament. In Bihar, RJD members Manoj Kumar Jha and Ahmad Ashfaque Karim, JD(U) members Aneel Prasad Hegde and Bashistha Narain Singh, BJP member Sushil Kumar Modi and Congress member Akhilesh Prasad Singh are completing their tenures in the Rajya Sabha. BJP members Anil Agrawal, Ashok Bajpai, Anil Jain, Kanta Kardam, Sakaldeep Rajbhar, GVL Narasimha Rao, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Sudhanshu Trivedi and Harnath Singh Yadav, and Samajwadi Party member Jaya Bachchan from Uttar Pradesh are retiring. TDP member Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, BJP member C M Ramesh and YSRCP member Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy from Andhra Pradesh are retiring from Rajya Sabha. BJP members Saroj Pandey and D P Vats are retiring from Chhattisgarh and Haryana respectively. Separately, four nominated members are retiring in July while two nominated seats are vacant. Among the nominated members retiring in July are Mahesh Jethmalani, Sonal Mansingh, Ram Shakal and Rakesh Sinha of the BJP.

India: EC announces biennial elections for 56 Rajya Sabha seats on Feb 27

In a shocking development, two teenage boys were fatally stabbed by a group of people on Saturday (Jan 28) in UK's Bristol at around 23:20 GMT.

The police said that two suspects, a 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested and are in custody, according to BBC reports.

"There are further suspects that are being sought amongst the group that we believe are responsible," Bristol Commander Supt Mark Runacres said during a press briefing.

Police said that a murder inquiry has been launched into the fatal incident further adding that a vehicle had been seized.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-looms-on-rishi-sunak-as-crafty-tories-plot-to-throw-him-out-of-downing-street-report-684595">Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report</a>

“This is an incredibly shocking and tragic incident where two young boys, who had their whole lives ahead of them, have sadly died," Supt Runacres said.

"Our collective thoughts are with their families at what is undoubtedly a very difficult time. Specialist family liaison officers will now be assigned to the families to provide them with support and keep them updated on the investigation," said the&nbsp;Bristol commander.

"A cordon is in place on Ilminster Avenue between Newquay Road and Tavistock Road, and members of the public can expect to see a large police presence as forensic searches and other enquiries are conducted," Runacres added.

Runacres further stated that several witnesses of the incident had been identified.

In a statement, he said: "[I'm] frustrated that offences like this will take place anywhere. It's demoralising. But it makes me determined to support the community.

"[And] it makes me determined to work with the team of police officers we have committed to this to identify those and bring them to justice."

The victims, who were immediately rushed to two hospitals, Southmead Hospital and Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, by ambulance, had sustained severe stab wounds.

They later succumbed to their injuries.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking development, two teenage boys were fatally stabbed by a group of people on Saturday (Jan 28) in UK's Bristol at around 23:20 GMT. The police said that two suspects, a 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested and are in custody, according to BBC reports.

In a shocking development, two teenage boys were fatally stabbed by a group of people on Saturday (Jan 28) in UK's Bristol at around 23:20 GMT. The police said that two suspects, a 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested and are in custody, according to BBC reports. "There are further suspects that are being sought amongst the group that we believe are responsible," Bristol Commander Supt Mark Runacres said during a press briefing. Police said that a murder inquiry has been launched into the fatal incident further adding that a vehicle had been seized. Also read: Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report “This is an incredibly shocking and tragic incident where two young boys, who had their whole lives ahead of them, have sadly died," Supt Runacres said. "Our collective thoughts are with their families at what is undoubtedly a very difficult time. Specialist family liaison officers will now be assigned to the families to provide them with support and keep them updated on the investigation," said the Bristol commander. "A cordon is in place on Ilminster Avenue between Newquay Road and Tavistock Road, and members of the public can expect to see a large police presence as forensic searches and other enquiries are conducted," Runacres added. Runacres further stated that several witnesses of the incident had been identified. In a statement, he said: "[I'm] frustrated that offences like this will take place anywhere. It's demoralising. But it makes me determined to support the community. "[And] it makes me determined to work with the team of police officers we have committed to this to identify those and bring them to justice." The victims, who were immediately rushed to two hospitals, Southmead Hospital and Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, by ambulance, had sustained severe stab wounds. They later succumbed to their injuries. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Two teenage boys fatally stabbed to death in Bristol

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time&nbsp;by 75 per cent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe.

"In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read.

With more than 7,00,000 applicants, visitor or B1 and B2 visas now recuperate to represent the second-highest number of applications in the history of the US Mission.

The improvements made in the process and the increase in the number of staff members have been dubbed as the reason behind increased efficiency in the process.

Reportedly, the appointment wait time for visitor visas has come down to only 250 days around the country from an average of 1,000 days with minimal wait time in all categories around the country.

The US consular team in India issued over 140,000 student visas in the year 2023, which is more than in any other country in the world setting a record for the third consecutive year.

“Taken individually, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai now stand as the top four student visa processing posts in the world. As a result of these surging numbers, Indian students have become the largest group of international graduate students in the US and make up more than a quarter of the over one million foreign students studying in the US,” the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-delhi-airport-leads-to-suspension-of-security-personnel-684632">Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended</a>

<h2>'Employment visas remain top priority'</h2>

The US Embassy and Consulates furthermore added that employment visas remain a top priority.

Consular Team India consolidated most petition-based visa processing in Chennai and Hyderabad to increase efficiency, leading to the processing of over 3,80,000 employment visas for Indians and their family members in 2023 and allowing the US Mission to "maintain a minimal appointment wait time" for the visa applications.

In another significant development, a pilot program in 2024 would allow eligible H1B holders to renew their visas in the United States, further simplifying the process for this group.

The ones who have a pending immigrant visa petition and are ready for scheduling can now obtain an appointment within the standard, pre-pandemic appointment window, it stated.

"The US Mission continues to invest in the future of consular services in India and explore ways to provide more efficient and convenient services. These investments have included the opening of a new USD 340 million facility in Hyderabad in March 2023, the announcement of two new consulates in Ahmedabad and Bangalore, continued capital improvements to our facilities around the country, and the permanent assignment of more consular officers to India," the US Embassy and Consulates said in the statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time by 75 per cent.

The United States issued a record 1.4 million visas for Indians in the year 2023, which is the highest so far, slashing the visitor visa appointment wait time by 75 per cent. The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement saying that now Indians represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the globe. "In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," the statement read. With more than 7,00,000 applicants, visitor or B1 and B2 visas now recuperate to represent the second-highest number of applications in the history of the US Mission. The improvements made in the process and the increase in the number of staff members have been dubbed as the reason behind increased efficiency in the process. Reportedly, the appointment wait time for visitor visas has come down to only 250 days around the country from an average of 1,000 days with minimal wait time in all categories around the country. The US consular team in India issued over 140,000 student visas in the year 2023, which is more than in any other country in the world setting a record for the third consecutive year. “Taken individually, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai now stand as the top four student visa processing posts in the world. As a result of these surging numbers, Indian students have become the largest group of international graduate students in the US and make up more than a quarter of the over one million foreign students studying in the US,” the statement said. Also read: Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended 'Employment visas remain top priority' The US Embassy and Consulates furthermore added that employment visas remain a top priority. Consular Team India consolidated most petition-based visa processing in Chennai and Hyderabad to increase efficiency, leading to the processing of over 3,80,000 employment visas for Indians and their family members in 2023 and allowing the US Mission to "maintain a minimal appointment wait time" for the visa applications. In another significant development, a pilot program in 2024 would allow eligible H1B holders to renew their visas in the United States, further simplifying the process for this group. The ones who have a pending immigrant visa petition and are ready for scheduling can now obtain an appointment within the standard, pre-pandemic appointment window, it stated. "The US Mission continues to invest in the future of consular services in India and explore ways to provide more efficient and convenient services. These investments have included the opening of a new USD 340 million facility in Hyderabad in March 2023, the announcement of two new consulates in Ahmedabad and Bangalore, continued capital improvements to our facilities around the country, and the permanent assignment of more consular officers to India," the US Embassy and Consulates said in the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US sets visa record in India, processes 1.4 million applications in 2023

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28).

The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation.

“An Air India pilot reported spotting an intruder around 11.30 pm as the flight landed safely and taxied to the parking bay,” according to airport officials.

“An Air India pilot reported to air traffic controllers (ATC) that a man had crossed in front of the aircraft during taxing. ATC promptly alerted the Airport Operation Control Centre (AOCC), leading to swift action by CISF, who apprehended the intruder and handed it over to local police,” a senior airport official told ANI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-splash-soup-on-glass-protected-mona-lisa-in-paris-684508">Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris</a>

The officials said that the accused, hailing from Haryana, was arrested by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and handed over to the Delhi Police.

"The accused was produced in the court and was sent to judicial custody. Primary investigation revealed that the accused is a drug addict and hails from Haryana's Nuh district," Delhi Police said.

"Airport security under CISF and DIAL..No Delhi police security lapse…," police officials added.

The intruder scaled the perimeter wall of the Delhi airport and reached the runway before he was arrested.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is responsible for ensuring the security at ''hypersensitive'' Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, suspended a head constable on charges of dereliction of duty.

The incident took place a day after the Republic Day celebrations and&nbsp;Delhi Airport was on high alert because of&nbsp;the VVIP moment.

The officials further said that an investigation was underway.

“Authorities have treated the incident with utmost seriousness, categorising it as a massive security breach and taking extensive measures to address the matter,” the sources said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28). The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation.

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28). The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation. “An Air India pilot reported spotting an intruder around 11.30 pm as the flight landed safely and taxied to the parking bay,” according to airport officials. “An Air India pilot reported to air traffic controllers (ATC) that a man had crossed in front of the aircraft during taxing. ATC promptly alerted the Airport Operation Control Centre (AOCC), leading to swift action by CISF, who apprehended the intruder and handed it over to local police,” a senior airport official told ANI. Also read: Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris The officials said that the accused, hailing from Haryana, was arrested by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and handed over to the Delhi Police. "The accused was produced in the court and was sent to judicial custody. Primary investigation revealed that the accused is a drug addict and hails from Haryana's Nuh district," Delhi Police said. "Airport security under CISF and DIAL..No Delhi police security lapse…," police officials added. The intruder scaled the perimeter wall of the Delhi airport and reached the runway before he was arrested. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is responsible for ensuring the security at ''hypersensitive'' Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, suspended a head constable on charges of dereliction of duty. The incident took place a day after the Republic Day celebrations and Delhi Airport was on high alert because of the VVIP moment. The officials further said that an investigation was underway. “Authorities have treated the incident with utmost seriousness, categorising it as a massive security breach and taking extensive measures to address the matter,” the sources said. (With inputs from agencies)

Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended

A teenage girl preparing for the competitive Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) died by suicide on Monday (Jan 29) in India's Kota city.

She left behind a note to her parents saying she was sorry, calling herself a “loser”.

“Mummy, papa I can't do JEE. So I suicide,” the note scribbled in English said, according to police.

“I am a loser. I am worst daughter. Sorry mummy papa. Yahi last option he (this is the last option),” the note found in Niharika Singh's room added.&nbsp;

She was reportedly due to appear for the examination in a day or two.

This is the second suicide case reported in less than a week's time in Rajasthan's Kota, which is also known as the coaching hub of the country.

The incident was reported on the very day Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his annual interaction with the students preparing for their school board examinations, advised the students and their parents to not let the stress of the competition get to them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pariksha-pe-charcha-2024-never-sow-seeds-of-competition-in-students-says-pm-modi-7-key-takeaways-684775">Pariksha Pe Charcha 2024: Never sow seeds of competition in students, says PM Modi. 7 key takeaways</a>

"Lot of parents keep giving examples of other children to their children. Parents should avoid doing these things," PM Modi said.

Niharika, who lived in Shiv Vihar Colony in the city's Borekheda police station area at her family residence, was to appear for her JEE test on January 30 or 31, said circle officer DSP Dharmveer Singh.

She, according to the police, was the eldest of three sisters and her father is a security guard at a private bank in Kota.

As per news agency PTI reports, the deceased's cousin said that Niharika, who had repeated her 12th standard due to low scores, was under immense pressure for the upcoming JEE exam. However, she devoted nearly seven or eight hours to her studies every day.

Niharika's grandmother raised an alarm after she got no response knocking at the door of the 18-year-old's room.

She was found hanging from the ventilation window above the door when her family forced open the room.

In 2023, nearly 26 students allegedly committed suicide in Rajasthan's Kota where children come from different parts of the country to prepare for competitive exams like the National Entrance Exam (JEE) for admission to top engineering colleges.

Just a few days ago, in a similar tragic incident, 19-year-old Mohammed Zaid, who was found hanging in his hostel room in Kota, had allegedly died of suicide.

(With inputs from agencies)

A teenage girl preparing for the competitive Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) died by suicide on Monday (Jan 29) in India's Kota city. She left behind a note to her parents saying she was sorry, calling herself a “loser”.

A teenage girl preparing for the competitive Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) died by suicide on Monday (Jan 29) in India's Kota city. She left behind a note to her parents saying she was sorry, calling herself a “loser”. “Mummy, papa I can't do JEE. So I suicide,” the note scribbled in English said, according to police. “I am a loser. I am worst daughter. Sorry mummy papa. Yahi last option he (this is the last option),” the note found in Niharika Singh's room added. She was reportedly due to appear for the examination in a day or two. This is the second suicide case reported in less than a week's time in Rajasthan's Kota, which is also known as the coaching hub of the country. The incident was reported on the very day Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his annual interaction with the students preparing for their school board examinations, advised the students and their parents to not let the stress of the competition get to them. Also read: Pariksha Pe Charcha 2024: Never sow seeds of competition in students, says PM Modi. 7 key takeaways "Lot of parents keep giving examples of other children to their children. Parents should avoid doing these things," PM Modi said. Niharika, who lived in Shiv Vihar Colony in the city's Borekheda police station area at her family residence, was to appear for her JEE test on January 30 or 31, said circle officer DSP Dharmveer Singh. She, according to the police, was the eldest of three sisters and her father is a security guard at a private bank in Kota. As per news agency PTI reports, the deceased's cousin said that Niharika, who had repeated her 12th standard due to low scores, was under immense pressure for the upcoming JEE exam. However, she devoted nearly seven or eight hours to her studies every day. Niharika's grandmother raised an alarm after she got no response knocking at the door of the 18-year-old's room. She was found hanging from the ventilation window above the door when her family forced open the room. In 2023, nearly 26 students allegedly committed suicide in Rajasthan's Kota where children come from different parts of the country to prepare for competitive exams like the National Entrance Exam (JEE) for admission to top engineering colleges. Just a few days ago, in a similar tragic incident, 19-year-old Mohammed Zaid, who was found hanging in his hostel room in Kota, had allegedly died of suicide. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student pens heartbreaking note for parents before dying by suicide in Kota

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Navya Beri

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.