<p>Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.5 kilos (3.3 pounds) of cannabis, Kokila Annamalai of local rights group Transformative Justice Collective told news agency AFP.</p>

<p>Singapore has one of the toughest anti-narcotics laws and as per the law, trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis can result in the death penalty.</p>

<p>"A 36-year-old Singaporean man had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex," a spokesman for the city-state's prison service told AFP.</p>

<p>Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) released a statement saying that it would not reveal the name of the man in order to respect his family's wish for privacy.</p>

<p>"The person was accorded full due process under the law, and had access to legal counsel throughout the process," CNB added.</p>

<p>"A last-ditch appeal to review the case and stay his execution was dismissed on Tuesday", Annamalai said.</p>

<p>Despite growing calls for the city-state to abolish the death penalty and halt drug-related executions, Singapore presses that it is an effective impediment against trafficking.</p>

<h2><strong>Singapore executes Indian-origin man for conspiring to traffic cannabis</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, on April 26,&nbsp;Singapore executed an Indian-origin man, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic one kilogramme of cannabis. The decision to hang him was taken despite pleas for clemency from his family, activists and also the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesman for the Singapore Prison Service told the news agency AFP that the "Singaporean Tangaraju Suppiah, 46, had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported that Kokila Annamalai, who is a Singapore-based rights activist representing the family, confirmed that Suppiah had been executed by hanging. It also mentioned that the president had rejected pleas for clemency on the eve of the execution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations Human Rights Office for Singapore had urged the authorities to "urgently reconsider" the decision of hanging, and British tycoon Richard Branson also asked to halt it.</p>

<p>Branson, who is a member of the Geneva-based Global Commission on Drug Policy, wrote a blog earlier this week about Tangaraju. He mentioned that the Singaporean man was "not anywhere near" the drugs at the time of his arrest and that Singapore may be about to put an innocent man to death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was convicted in 2017 of "abetting by engaging in a conspiracy to traffic" 1,017.9 grammes of cannabis. The quantity was twice the minimum volume required for a death sentence in Singapore. In 2018, Tangaraju was sentenced to death and the Court of Appeal upheld the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Activists to push for Singapore to abolish death penalty</strong></h2>

<p>Activists said they will keep making efforts to push for Singapore to abrogate capital punishment as it has not proven any deterrent effect on crime.</p>

<p>"The call to the Singapore government (to scrap the death penalty) has been loud and clear globally, and we will repeat the call: Singapore has to halt the executions," Amnesty International's executive director for Malaysia Katrina Jorene Maliamauv told reporters in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"They have to commute all existing death sentences."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks. The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.

Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks. The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.5 kilos (3.3 pounds) of cannabis, Kokila Annamalai of local rights group Transformative Justice Collective told news agency AFP. Singapore has one of the toughest anti-narcotics laws and as per the law, trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis can result in the death penalty. "A 36-year-old Singaporean man had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex," a spokesman for the city-state's prison service told AFP. Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) released a statement saying that it would not reveal the name of the man in order to respect his family's wish for privacy. "The person was accorded full due process under the law, and had access to legal counsel throughout the process," CNB added. "A last-ditch appeal to review the case and stay his execution was dismissed on Tuesday", Annamalai said. Despite growing calls for the city-state to abolish the death penalty and halt drug-related executions, Singapore presses that it is an effective impediment against trafficking. Singapore executes Indian-origin man for conspiring to traffic cannabis Earlier, on April 26, Singapore executed an Indian-origin man, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic one kilogramme of cannabis. The decision to hang him was taken despite pleas for clemency from his family, activists and also the United Nations. A spokesman for the Singapore Prison Service told the news agency AFP that the "Singaporean Tangaraju Suppiah, 46, had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex." Reuters reported that Kokila Annamalai, who is a Singapore-based rights activist representing the family, confirmed that Suppiah had been executed by hanging. It also mentioned that the president had rejected pleas for clemency on the eve of the execution. The United Nations Human Rights Office for Singapore had urged the authorities to "urgently reconsider" the decision of hanging, and British tycoon Richard Branson also asked to halt it. Branson, who is a member of the Geneva-based Global Commission on Drug Policy, wrote a blog earlier this week about Tangaraju. He mentioned that the Singaporean man was "not anywhere near" the drugs at the time of his arrest and that Singapore may be about to put an innocent man to death. He was convicted in 2017 of "abetting by engaging in a conspiracy to traffic" 1,017.9 grammes of cannabis. The quantity was twice the minimum volume required for a death sentence in Singapore. In 2018, Tangaraju was sentenced to death and the Court of Appeal upheld the decision. Activists to push for Singapore to abolish death penalty Activists said they will keep making efforts to push for Singapore to abrogate capital punishment as it has not proven any deterrent effect on crime. "The call to the Singapore government (to scrap the death penalty) has been loud and clear globally, and we will repeat the call: Singapore has to halt the executions," Amnesty International's executive director for Malaysia Katrina Jorene Maliamauv told reporters in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. "They have to commute all existing death sentences." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singapore executes second citizen in three weeks for trafficking drugs

<p>A hostel fire, that claimed the lives of at least six people in New Zealand's capital city Wellington, is being treated as an act of arson, said the police on Wednesday as they opened a homicide probe into the incident.</p>

<p>In the early hours of Tuesday, a major blaze broke out on the top floor of the Loafers Lodge in the suburb of Newtown. Soon after, the flames and smoke engulfed the entire building forcing the residents to flee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to major structural damage caused by the fire, the recovery efforts have been extensively hampered.</p>

<p>According to the police, the investigators hoped to enter the building,&nbsp;after a health and safety inspection, in the afternoon to start with their probe and identify the ones killed in the incident.</p>

<p>"This scene examination will be an extensive and methodical process, and we expect it to take some time, likely several days," Acting Wellington District Commander Dion Bennett said.</p>

<p>"I can confirm that we are treating the fire as arson," he added.</p>

<p>"It is being treated as a homicide investigation," Bennett said, adding that police had a list of people they wanted to speak to.</p>

<p>The hostel, where the fire broke out, provided accommodation for hospital staff, construction workers and the people serving sentences in the community for minor crimes, among others.</p>

<p>The police on Wednesday said that some people were still missing, putting the number at less than 20 further adding that some of the missing residents of the hostel might just be unaccounted for.</p>

<p>The investigators are yet to learn about the exact cause of the incident but as per the police, there was a couch fire late on Monday, that took place two hours before the virulent blaze, which was not reported to the emergency services.</p>

<p>"We will be seeking to confirm any link between that couch fire and the subsequent fatal fire," Bennett said.</p>

<p>Fire and Emergency New Zealand called it safe for police to enter the building earlier on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"The next step for us is going through and ensuring that there isn't anybody else in there and obviously working with police to investigate and support them in the removal of the six people," FENZ region manager Bruce Stubbs told Radio New Zealand.</p>

<h2><strong>Prime Minister Chris Hipkins visits scene of hostel fire</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, New Zealand's Prime Minister Chris Hipkins visited the scene of the deadly hostel blaze.</p>

<p>"Obviously it's quite confronting and also to speak to the first responders who were on the scene. Clearly a traumatic situation for them. I know they'll be feeling this," he said during a news briefing at the site.</p>

<p>He described the fire as "an absolute tragedy".</p>

<p>Hipkins appreciated the "incredible effort" of firefighters to extinguish the blaze and evacuate people.</p>

<p>"I acknowledge the victims and their families -- an absolutely tragic set of circumstances," he said, vowing a "thorough review" of the disaster.</p>

<p>"There will be an opportunity to test whether this building was fully compliant with all of the rules that it needed to be compliant with but obviously the focus at the moment is supporting our firefighters," Hipkins said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A hostel fire, that claimed the lives of at least six people in New Zealand's capital city Wellington, is being treated as an act of arson, said the police on Wednesday as they opened a homicide probe into the incident.

A hostel fire, that claimed the lives of at least six people in New Zealand's capital city Wellington, is being treated as an act of arson, said the police on Wednesday as they opened a homicide probe into the incident. In the early hours of Tuesday, a major blaze broke out on the top floor of the Loafers Lodge in the suburb of Newtown. Soon after, the flames and smoke engulfed the entire building forcing the residents to flee. Due to major structural damage caused by the fire, the recovery efforts have been extensively hampered. According to the police, the investigators hoped to enter the building, after a health and safety inspection, in the afternoon to start with their probe and identify the ones killed in the incident. "This scene examination will be an extensive and methodical process, and we expect it to take some time, likely several days," Acting Wellington District Commander Dion Bennett said. "I can confirm that we are treating the fire as arson," he added. "It is being treated as a homicide investigation," Bennett said, adding that police had a list of people they wanted to speak to. The hostel, where the fire broke out, provided accommodation for hospital staff, construction workers and the people serving sentences in the community for minor crimes, among others. The police on Wednesday said that some people were still missing, putting the number at less than 20 further adding that some of the missing residents of the hostel might just be unaccounted for. The investigators are yet to learn about the exact cause of the incident but as per the police, there was a couch fire late on Monday, that took place two hours before the virulent blaze, which was not reported to the emergency services. "We will be seeking to confirm any link between that couch fire and the subsequent fatal fire," Bennett said. Fire and Emergency New Zealand called it safe for police to enter the building earlier on Wednesday. "The next step for us is going through and ensuring that there isn't anybody else in there and obviously working with police to investigate and support them in the removal of the six people," FENZ region manager Bruce Stubbs told Radio New Zealand. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins visits scene of hostel fire On Tuesday, New Zealand's Prime Minister Chris Hipkins visited the scene of the deadly hostel blaze. "Obviously it's quite confronting and also to speak to the first responders who were on the scene. Clearly a traumatic situation for them. I know they'll be feeling this," he said during a news briefing at the site. He described the fire as "an absolute tragedy". Hipkins appreciated the "incredible effort" of firefighters to extinguish the blaze and evacuate people. "I acknowledge the victims and their families -- an absolutely tragic set of circumstances," he said, vowing a "thorough review" of the disaster. "There will be an opportunity to test whether this building was fully compliant with all of the rules that it needed to be compliant with but obviously the focus at the moment is supporting our firefighters," Hipkins said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand police launch homicide inquiry into deadly hostel blaze, to treat it as act of arson

<p>Britain's Indian-origin Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, on Monday, while addressing the National Conservatism Conference in London, issued a stark warning against rapid migration into the country and called on the Conservative Party to re-establish its commitment to bring down immigration.</p>

<p>The 43-year-old Tory MP asserted that the industries facing a labour shortage in the United Kingdom should train more people within the country rather than bringing foreign workers from overseas.</p>

<p>"There is no good reason the UK cannot train its own lorry drivers and fruit pickers to bring immigration down," said Braverman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She argued that it was 'not racist' to make efforts to control the borders, according to an excerpt of the speech released by the BBC.</p>

<p>She further said, "We must not forget how to do things for ourselves".</p>

<p>"It's not xenophobic to say that mass and rapid migration is unsustainable in terms of housing supply, public services and community relations," she said.</p>

<p>"While illegal migration is rightly our priority given the acute challenges we face in the [English] Channel, we must not lose sight of the importance of controlling legal migration too," she added.</p>

<p>Braverman further stressed that there was nothing wrong about someone from an ethnic minority background making such arguments using her parents' reference as having come to the UK through 'legal and controlled migration'.</p>

<p>"They spoke the language. They threw themselves into the community and embraced British values. When they arrived, they signed up to be part of our shared project because the UK meant something distinct. Integration was part of the quid pro quo," she noted.</p>

<p>"The unexamined drive towards multiculturalism as an end in itself, combined with identity politics, is a recipe for communal disaster. We cannot have immigration without integration," she said.</p>

<p>Braverman claimed that she had 'voted and campaigned for' Brexit as she wanted Britain to control migration and also have a call on what works for the country and what doesn't.</p>

<p>"High-skilled workers support economic growth. And where the labour market has acute or structural shortages, as with the NHS, it is of course right that we should have an immigration system agile enough to plug those shortages. But we need to get overall immigration numbers down," the Brexit-backing Cabinet minister said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Her speech is being viewed by many as a warning shot to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to focus more on his efforts of cutting down immigration.</p>

<h2><strong>"More immigration needed in short term to boost economic growth," say senior Conservatives</strong></h2>

<p>Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston was quoted as saying by the BBC, "Every now and again we also need more people to come into the country, but the key thing was to have control."</p>

<p>"In the long term, we need immigration to come down because that's what has been causing some challenges in local areas for a long period of time," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Sunak's promise to 'stop the boats'</strong></h2>

<p>PM Rishi Sunak vowed to 'stop the boats' used by dozens of immigrants every year to travel to Britain's shores from northern Europe in his efforts to reduce immigration.</p>

<p>According to AFP, more than 45,000 arrived last year, continuing a trend that took off in 2018.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Britain's Indian-origin Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, on Monday, while addressing the National Conservatism Conference in London, issued a stark warning against rapid migration into the country and called on the Conservative Party to re-establish its commitment to bring down immigration.

Britain's Indian-origin Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, on Monday, while addressing the National Conservatism Conference in London, issued a stark warning against rapid migration into the country and called on the Conservative Party to re-establish its commitment to bring down immigration. The 43-year-old Tory MP asserted that the industries facing a labour shortage in the United Kingdom should train more people within the country rather than bringing foreign workers from overseas. "There is no good reason the UK cannot train its own lorry drivers and fruit pickers to bring immigration down," said Braverman. She argued that it was 'not racist' to make efforts to control the borders, according to an excerpt of the speech released by the BBC. She further said, "We must not forget how to do things for ourselves". "It's not xenophobic to say that mass and rapid migration is unsustainable in terms of housing supply, public services and community relations," she said. "While illegal migration is rightly our priority given the acute challenges we face in the [English] Channel, we must not lose sight of the importance of controlling legal migration too," she added. Braverman further stressed that there was nothing wrong about someone from an ethnic minority background making such arguments using her parents' reference as having come to the UK through 'legal and controlled migration'. "They spoke the language. They threw themselves into the community and embraced British values. When they arrived, they signed up to be part of our shared project because the UK meant something distinct. Integration was part of the quid pro quo," she noted. "The unexamined drive towards multiculturalism as an end in itself, combined with identity politics, is a recipe for communal disaster. We cannot have immigration without integration," she said. Braverman claimed that she had 'voted and campaigned for' Brexit as she wanted Britain to control migration and also have a call on what works for the country and what doesn't. "High-skilled workers support economic growth. And where the labour market has acute or structural shortages, as with the NHS, it is of course right that we should have an immigration system agile enough to plug those shortages. But we need to get overall immigration numbers down," the Brexit-backing Cabinet minister said. Her speech is being viewed by many as a warning shot to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to focus more on his efforts of cutting down immigration. "More immigration needed in short term to boost economic growth," say senior Conservatives Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston was quoted as saying by the BBC, "Every now and again we also need more people to come into the country, but the key thing was to have control." "In the long term, we need immigration to come down because that's what has been causing some challenges in local areas for a long period of time," he added. PM Sunak's promise to 'stop the boats' PM Rishi Sunak vowed to 'stop the boats' used by dozens of immigrants every year to travel to Britain's shores from northern Europe in his efforts to reduce immigration. According to AFP, more than 45,000 arrived last year, continuing a trend that took off in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'No good reason UK cannot train its own fruit pickers, butchers to reduce immigration': Suella Braverman

<p>The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll.</p>

<p>The 42-year-old Harvard graduate, corporate titan and unlikely pro-democracy champion, Limjaroenrat left the Thai establishment in shock with a grassroot campaign pushing for royal reform that saw him emerge as a frontrunner candidate to be Thailand's next prime minister.</p>

<p>His party witnessed a record turnout with 14.1 million people supporting him, grabbing the majority in the historic elections.</p>

<p>On Monday, in his victory speech, he vowed to become the next prime minister of Thailand and also said that his party is now ready to form a government.</p>

<p>"Today is a new day, and hopefully it is full of sunshine and hope," he said.</p>

<p>He took to Twitter and said, “We have the same dream, the same hopes, and we believe that Thailand that we love can be better. Change is possible If we start doing it from today... Our dreams and hopes are quite simple and straightforward.”</p>

<p>He continued: “Whether you agree or disagree with me, I will be your prime minister. Whether you voted for me or not, I will serve you.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="th">พี่น้องประชาชนที่รัก วันนี้ผม พิธา ลิ้มเจริญรัตน์ ‘ชัด’ และ ‘พร้อม’ แล้วที่จะเป็นนายกรัฐมนตรีคนที่ 30 ของประเทศไทย<br />
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เรามีความฝัน ความหวัง แบบเดียวกัน และเราเชื่อเหมือนกันว่า ประเทศไทยที่เรารักจะดีกว่านี้ได้ ความเปลี่ยนแปลงเป็นไปได้ ถ้าเราเริ่มต้นลงมือทำตั้งแต่วันนี้... ความฝัน… <a href="https://t.co/c66AMdPhpx">pic.twitter.com/c66AMdPhpx</a></p>
— Pita Limjaroenrat (@Pita_MFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pita_MFP/status/1657829220062744576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Pita Limjaroenrat's first appearance in Thailand's political scene</strong></h2>

<p>Limjaroenrat began his political career in 2019 after being elected to parliament as a member of the newly formed progressive Future Forward Party.</p>

<p>Founded by billionaire and resolute critic of the army, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the party performed extremely well in the 2019 elections, drawing the third-largest share of voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after facing a storm of legal challenges that as per critics were politically instigated, Future Forward was disbanded and its leaders were banned from politics which lead to demonstrations by young people in the country demanding new polls and amendments to the constitution.</p>

<p>Limjaroenrat gained popularity with his party's promises to smash political influence and reform laws relating to the monarchy.</p>

<p>On Friday, in his last rally before the elections, he told the supporters, "We will together rewrite Thai political history."</p>

<h2><strong>Limjaroenrat's life before entering politics</strong></h2>

<p>Educated in New Zealand and the United States, Pita studied at Harvard University on an international scholarship before going on to become an entrepreneur.</p>

<p>He lost his father at the age of 25 and following his demise, he returned home to run his family business which was heavily in debt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He later became the executive director of the transport and delivery app Grab Thailand.</p>

<p>Pita, father to a seven-year-old daughter, got married to Thai TV actress Chutima Teepanat in the year 2012. The marriage broke down in 2019.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll.

The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll. The 42-year-old Harvard graduate, corporate titan and unlikely pro-democracy champion, Limjaroenrat left the Thai establishment in shock with a grassroot campaign pushing for royal reform that saw him emerge as a frontrunner candidate to be Thailand's next prime minister. His party witnessed a record turnout with 14.1 million people supporting him, grabbing the majority in the historic elections. On Monday, in his victory speech, he vowed to become the next prime minister of Thailand and also said that his party is now ready to form a government. "Today is a new day, and hopefully it is full of sunshine and hope," he said. He took to Twitter and said, “We have the same dream, the same hopes, and we believe that Thailand that we love can be better. Change is possible If we start doing it from today... Our dreams and hopes are quite simple and straightforward.” He continued: “Whether you agree or disagree with me, I will be your prime minister. Whether you voted for me or not, I will serve you.” พี่น้องประชาชนที่รัก วันนี้ผม พิธา ลิ้มเจริญรัตน์ ‘ชัด’ และ ‘พร้อม’ แล้วที่จะเป็นนายกรัฐมนตรีคนที่ 30 ของประเทศไทย เรามีความฝัน ความหวัง แบบเดียวกัน และเราเชื่อเหมือนกันว่า ประเทศไทยที่เรารักจะดีกว่านี้ได้ ความเปลี่ยนแปลงเป็นไปได้ ถ้าเราเริ่มต้นลงมือทำตั้งแต่วันนี้... ความฝัน… pic.twitter.com/c66AMdPhpx — Pita Limjaroenrat (@Pita_MFP) May 14, 2023 × Pita Limjaroenrat's first appearance in Thailand's political scene Limjaroenrat began his political career in 2019 after being elected to parliament as a member of the newly formed progressive Future Forward Party. Founded by billionaire and resolute critic of the army, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the party performed extremely well in the 2019 elections, drawing the third-largest share of voters. However, after facing a storm of legal challenges that as per critics were politically instigated, Future Forward was disbanded and its leaders were banned from politics which lead to demonstrations by young people in the country demanding new polls and amendments to the constitution. Limjaroenrat gained popularity with his party's promises to smash political influence and reform laws relating to the monarchy. On Friday, in his last rally before the elections, he told the supporters, "We will together rewrite Thai political history." Limjaroenrat's life before entering politics Educated in New Zealand and the United States, Pita studied at Harvard University on an international scholarship before going on to become an entrepreneur. He lost his father at the age of 25 and following his demise, he returned home to run his family business which was heavily in debt. He later became the executive director of the transport and delivery app Grab Thailand. Pita, father to a seven-year-old daughter, got married to Thai TV actress Chutima Teepanat in the year 2012. The marriage broke down in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Pita Limjaroenrat? 42-year-old pro-democracy champion behind Thailand's political revolution

<p>In a big blow to the country's wildlife conservation efforts, six lions were killed by herders in Kenya on Saturday after the pride attacked 11 goats and a dog the previous night, said the wildlife officials.</p>

<p>The incident came a day after Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest lion in the wild, was brutally stabbed to death by herders when he rambled into a livestock pen on the outskirts of Amboseli National Park.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident as over the last week four other lions have been killed," The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said in a statement on Saturday.</p>

<p>"A total of 10 lions (have been) killed in the Amboseli ecosystem since last week," said KWS.</p>

<p>It further added that the officials met with the members of the community to discuss the issue.</p>

<p>"The discussions centred on exploring ways to minimise the risk of human-wildlife conflict, including developing early warning systems to alert communities of the presence of wildlife in their vicinity," the statement said.</p>

<p>"The KWS officials engaged the community in an effort to find lasting solutions that will address the conflict while protecting both human lives and wildlife."</p>

<h2><strong>Loonkiito impaled to death in Kenya</strong></h2>

<p>Kenyan lion Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest, died on Friday after he was brutally impaled by Maasai morans (warriors), said the local wildlife officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Loonkiito, who was 19 years old, died in the Olkelunyiet village, located in southern Kenya, bordering Amboseli National Park, while preying upon livestock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lion Guardians, a Maasai-operated conservation group, took to Instagram and informed about Loonkiito's demise, referring to him as the "oldest male lion in their ecosystem and possibly in Africa".</p>

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<p>"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Loonkiito (2004-2023), the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa. He died yesterday, on the 10th of May 2023 at 19 years old," read the caption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was a symbol of resilience and coexistence. We at Lion Guardians feel privileged to have borne witness to his life and his legacy. In the following weeks and months, we hope to share the extraordinary story of Loonkiito’s life with the world."</p>

<p>In 2021, KWS described Loonkito as a 'legendary big cat warrior' who had defended his territory for more than 10 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lion Guardians, a conservation group, had lauded Loonkito as "a symbol of resilience and coexistence" and said he was "the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa".</p>

<p>In recent years, the reports of wildlife straying into human habitats in Kenya have increased as the animals come under growing pressure from cities that are expanding into hunting grounds.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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In a big blow to the country's wildlife conservation efforts, six lions were killed by herders in Kenya on Saturday after the pride attacked 11 goats and a dog the previous night, said the wildlife officials.

In a big blow to the country's wildlife conservation efforts, six lions were killed by herders in Kenya on Saturday after the pride attacked 11 goats and a dog the previous night, said the wildlife officials. The incident came a day after Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest lion in the wild, was brutally stabbed to death by herders when he rambled into a livestock pen on the outskirts of Amboseli National Park. "Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident as over the last week four other lions have been killed," The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said in a statement on Saturday. "A total of 10 lions (have been) killed in the Amboseli ecosystem since last week," said KWS. It further added that the officials met with the members of the community to discuss the issue. "The discussions centred on exploring ways to minimise the risk of human-wildlife conflict, including developing early warning systems to alert communities of the presence of wildlife in their vicinity," the statement said. "The KWS officials engaged the community in an effort to find lasting solutions that will address the conflict while protecting both human lives and wildlife." Loonkiito impaled to death in Kenya Kenyan lion Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest, died on Friday after he was brutally impaled by Maasai morans (warriors), said the local wildlife officials. Loonkiito, who was 19 years old, died in the Olkelunyiet village, located in southern Kenya, bordering Amboseli National Park, while preying upon livestock. Lion Guardians, a Maasai-operated conservation group, took to Instagram and informed about Loonkiito's demise, referring to him as the "oldest male lion in their ecosystem and possibly in Africa". View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lion Guardians (@lionguardians_) × "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Loonkiito (2004-2023), the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa. He died yesterday, on the 10th of May 2023 at 19 years old," read the caption. "He was a symbol of resilience and coexistence. We at Lion Guardians feel privileged to have borne witness to his life and his legacy. In the following weeks and months, we hope to share the extraordinary story of Loonkiito’s life with the world." In 2021, KWS described Loonkito as a 'legendary big cat warrior' who had defended his territory for more than 10 years. Lion Guardians, a conservation group, had lauded Loonkito as "a symbol of resilience and coexistence" and said he was "the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa". In recent years, the reports of wildlife straying into human habitats in Kenya have increased as the animals come under growing pressure from cities that are expanding into hunting grounds. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Six more lions impaled to death by herders in Kenya

<p>After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state.</p>

<p>During the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting in Bengaluru on Sunday evening, the newly elected MLAs passed a one-line resolution authorising Congress President Malikarjun Kharge to take a call on the matter.</p>

<p>"The Congress Legislature Party unanimously resolves that AICC President is hereby authorised to appoint the new leader of the Congress Legislature Party," the resolution stated.</p>

<p>The race is reportedly between Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief DK Shivakumar and former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah.</p>

<p>As the suspense builds up over who is going to be the next chief minister of the state, Siddaramiah left for the national capital Delhi to meet the top leadership of the party.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Shivakumar, who is also celebrating his birthday today, said that he has already done his duty, adding that he now leaves it to the party's high command to decide.</p>

<p>"We have passed a one-line resolution. We will leave it to the party's high command. I have not decided to go to Delhi. I have done whatever job I have to do," said the KPCC chief.</p>

<p>Asked if he will leave for Delhi or not, he said, "Still haven't decided whether to go or not."</p>

<p>He added, "I have not decided to go to Delhi. Because a lot of people are coming from across the state and I have small rituals in my house as today is my birthday. There is some puja [religious rituals] and I have to go to some temples."</p>

<h2><strong>Mallikarjun Kharge will not take long to announce of next Karnataka CM: Randeep Singh Surjewala</strong></h2>

<p>All India Congress Committee (AICC)'s leader in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, told the media that Mallikarjun Kharge would not take long to announce the name of the next chief minister of the state.</p>

<p>"Party leadership will take a decision. I can't replace my judgement with Kharge sahab's judgement. He is our senior, and as you all know him. He is the son of the soil of Karnataka, and I'm sure he will not take very long," he said.</p>

<p>"The winning party will be in the first cabinet when we will implement our first five guarantees," he added while responding to a query on plans for the oath-taking ceremony after the decision on the new CM of Karnataka.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state.

After Congress had a major victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections held on May 10, all eyes are now on the party's top leadership on their pick for the chief minister in the southern Indian state. During the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting in Bengaluru on Sunday evening, the newly elected MLAs passed a one-line resolution authorising Congress President Malikarjun Kharge to take a call on the matter. "The Congress Legislature Party unanimously resolves that AICC President is hereby authorised to appoint the new leader of the Congress Legislature Party," the resolution stated. The race is reportedly between Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief DK Shivakumar and former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah. As the suspense builds up over who is going to be the next chief minister of the state, Siddaramiah left for the national capital Delhi to meet the top leadership of the party. On the other hand, Shivakumar, who is also celebrating his birthday today, said that he has already done his duty, adding that he now leaves it to the party's high command to decide. "We have passed a one-line resolution. We will leave it to the party's high command. I have not decided to go to Delhi. I have done whatever job I have to do," said the KPCC chief. Asked if he will leave for Delhi or not, he said, "Still haven't decided whether to go or not." He added, "I have not decided to go to Delhi. Because a lot of people are coming from across the state and I have small rituals in my house as today is my birthday. There is some puja [religious rituals] and I have to go to some temples." Mallikarjun Kharge will not take long to announce of next Karnataka CM: Randeep Singh Surjewala All India Congress Committee (AICC)'s leader in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, told the media that Mallikarjun Kharge would not take long to announce the name of the next chief minister of the state. "Party leadership will take a decision. I can't replace my judgement with Kharge sahab's judgement. He is our senior, and as you all know him. He is the son of the soil of Karnataka, and I'm sure he will not take very long," he said. "The winning party will be in the first cabinet when we will implement our first five guarantees," he added while responding to a query on plans for the oath-taking ceremony after the decision on the new CM of Karnataka. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Karnataka Election Results 2023: DK Shivakumar or Siddaramaiah, who will be the next chief minister?

In Pics | Canada deploys military forces to help combat Alberta wildfires

<p>If you are getting missed calls, messages or calls on WhatsApp from numbers starting with +254, +84, +63 or other international numbers out of the blue, then beware of the most recent scam that is making headlines. The experts, working closely with the Indian government to curb the cybercrime menace, cautioned users of a new Whatsapp cyber fraud and urged people to not respond if they are getting calls from such unknown numbers.</p>

<p>Home Ministry's Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre has issued an alert in order to save users from becoming victims of the scam.</p>

<h2><strong>Experts warn of new cybercrime trend</strong></h2>

<p>The experts in data analysis and forensics told ANI that such international numbers have 'Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia' origin and that unscrupulous elements could steal the financial data of people.</p>

<p>"This is a new cybercrime trend. People across India irrespective of their profession have been receiving calls and missed calls on WhatsApp from +254, +84, +63, +1(218) or other international numbers, and some of them have become victims of cybercrime. It has become more frequent," said an expert in cyber intelligence and digital forensics, on condition of anonymity, while speaking to news agency ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>Multiple users report the scam on Twitter</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, multiple users have taken to Twitter and complained about receiving random calls and messages from unknown international numbers on WhatsApp.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Are you also getting suspicious missed calls on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsApp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsApp</a> from international numbers? Beware, it's a fraud! <a href="https://twitter.com/Cyberdost?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cyberdost</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WhatsApp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhatsApp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Meta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Meta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Apple?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Apple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsApp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsApp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/scam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#scam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/whatsappcallscam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#whatsappcallscam</a> <a href="https://t.co/I2BsnuGrQK">pic.twitter.com/I2BsnuGrQK</a></p>
— Vivek Singh (@Bigdreamer_vk) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bigdreamer_vk/status/1655607265163104256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Same here..Our data is being sold either from banks or from offices?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Scam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Scam</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsAppCallScam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsAppCallScam</a> <a href="https://t.co/GJ4fFZuakU">https://t.co/GJ4fFZuakU</a></p>
— Ankit (@_BeingWitty) <a href="https://twitter.com/_BeingWitty/status/1653659313418948608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Cyberabad Police of India's southern state of Telangana also asked WhatsApp users to not respond to such calls. "Many Indian users are receiving international calls on their WhatsApp numbers. We request everyone to remain vigilant and not respond to such calls. Please report and block them immediately, as it is a scam designed to lure people," they tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Many Indian users are receiving international calls on their WhatsApp numbers. We request everyone to remain vigilant and not respond to such calls. Please report and block them immediately, as it is a scam designed to lure people.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsappScam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsappScam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAlert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CyberabadPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CyberabadPolice</a> <a href="https://t.co/KqObDh2yKT">https://t.co/KqObDh2yKT</a> <a href="https://t.co/6eitscOESW">pic.twitter.com/6eitscOESW</a></p>
— Cyberabad Police (@cyberabadpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/cyberabadpolice/status/1655800472261873664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>WhatsApp responds to complaints and grievances, issues statement</strong></h2>

<p>"At WhatsApp, the safety of our users is at the core of everything we do and we have devoted efforts to empower users with resources and tools that equip them to safeguard themselves from scams. WhatsApp is an industry leader in preventing abuse, among end-to-end encrypted messaging services and over the years we have made significant product investments and launched user awareness campaigns that empower users to stay safe. Blocking and Reporting suspicious messages/ calls is an important step to effectively combat scams and when users receive calls from unknown international or domestic phone numbers," it said in a statement to the media.</p>

<p>"Additionally, we have consistently invested in Artificial Intelligence and other state-of-the-art technology, data scientists and experts, and in processes, in order to keep our users safe on our platform. Our monthly user safety report that we publish in accordance with the IT Rules 2021, contains details of the user complaints received and the corresponding action taken by WhatsApp, as well as WhatsApp's own preventive actions to combat abuse on our platform. As captured in the latest Monthly Report, WhatsApp banned over 4.7 million accounts in the month of March alone,'' the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>What should WhatsApp users do?</strong></h2>

<p>Experts suggest that the users, on receiving such random calls and messages, should not respond.&nbsp;Simply ignore or reject them and further 'report and block' those numbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Users should report and block numbers starting with &nbsp;+254, +84, 63 or other international numbers if there are calls or missed call alerts on WhatsApp," said another cyber intelligence and digital forensics expert as quoted by news agency ANI.</p>

<p>These calls and alerts are made or sent by fraudsters at any given time, according to the experts.</p>

<p>"From early morning between 6 am to 7 am or late in the night, such calls are being received by people from all groups whether he or she is a private employee, businessman, retired government officer or even school and college boy or girl. We need to be just aware of such calls."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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If you are getting missed calls, messages or calls on WhatsApp from numbers starting with +254, +84, +63 or other international numbers out of the blue, then beware of the most recent scam that is making headlines.

If you are getting missed calls, messages or calls on WhatsApp from numbers starting with +254, +84, +63 or other international numbers out of the blue, then beware of the most recent scam that is making headlines. The experts, working closely with the Indian government to curb the cybercrime menace, cautioned users of a new Whatsapp cyber fraud and urged people to not respond if they are getting calls from such unknown numbers. Home Ministry's Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre has issued an alert in order to save users from becoming victims of the scam. Experts warn of new cybercrime trend The experts in data analysis and forensics told ANI that such international numbers have 'Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia' origin and that unscrupulous elements could steal the financial data of people. "This is a new cybercrime trend. People across India irrespective of their profession have been receiving calls and missed calls on WhatsApp from +254, +84, +63, +1(218) or other international numbers, and some of them have become victims of cybercrime. It has become more frequent," said an expert in cyber intelligence and digital forensics, on condition of anonymity, while speaking to news agency ANI. Multiple users report the scam on Twitter Recently, multiple users have taken to Twitter and complained about receiving random calls and messages from unknown international numbers on WhatsApp. Are you also getting suspicious missed calls on #WhatsApp from international numbers? Beware, it's a fraud! @Cyberdost @WhatsApp @Meta @Apple #WhatsApp #scam #whatsappcallscam pic.twitter.com/I2BsnuGrQK — Vivek Singh (@Bigdreamer_vk) May 8, 2023 × Same here..Our data is being sold either from banks or from offices?#Scam#WhatsAppCallScam https://t.co/GJ4fFZuakU — Ankit (@_BeingWitty) May 3, 2023 × Cyberabad Police of India's southern state of Telangana also asked WhatsApp users to not respond to such calls. "Many Indian users are receiving international calls on their WhatsApp numbers. We request everyone to remain vigilant and not respond to such calls. Please report and block them immediately, as it is a scam designed to lure people," they tweeted. Many Indian users are receiving international calls on their WhatsApp numbers. We request everyone to remain vigilant and not respond to such calls. Please report and block them immediately, as it is a scam designed to lure people.#WhatsappScam #StayAlert #CyberabadPolice https://t.co/KqObDh2yKT pic.twitter.com/6eitscOESW — Cyberabad Police (@cyberabadpolice) May 9, 2023 × WhatsApp responds to complaints and grievances, issues statement "At WhatsApp, the safety of our users is at the core of everything we do and we have devoted efforts to empower users with resources and tools that equip them to safeguard themselves from scams. WhatsApp is an industry leader in preventing abuse, among end-to-end encrypted messaging services and over the years we have made significant product investments and launched user awareness campaigns that empower users to stay safe. Blocking and Reporting suspicious messages/ calls is an important step to effectively combat scams and when users receive calls from unknown international or domestic phone numbers," it said in a statement to the media. "Additionally, we have consistently invested in Artificial Intelligence and other state-of-the-art technology, data scientists and experts, and in processes, in order to keep our users safe on our platform. Our monthly user safety report that we publish in accordance with the IT Rules 2021, contains details of the user complaints received and the corresponding action taken by WhatsApp, as well as WhatsApp's own preventive actions to combat abuse on our platform. As captured in the latest Monthly Report, WhatsApp banned over 4.7 million accounts in the month of March alone,'' the statement added. What should WhatsApp users do? Experts suggest that the users, on receiving such random calls and messages, should not respond. Simply ignore or reject them and further 'report and block' those numbers. "Users should report and block numbers starting with +254, +84, 63 or other international numbers if there are calls or missed call alerts on WhatsApp," said another cyber intelligence and digital forensics expert as quoted by news agency ANI. These calls and alerts are made or sent by fraudsters at any given time, according to the experts. "From early morning between 6 am to 7 am or late in the night, such calls are being received by people from all groups whether he or she is a private employee, businessman, retired government officer or even school and college boy or girl. We need to be just aware of such calls." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Beware! Getting random calls on WhatsApp from international numbers? Don't respond

<p>With exit poll predictions giving an edge to the Congress party over Bharatiya Janata Party in the Karnataka Assembly Elections, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said he was confident that BJP will come to power with a 'complete majority'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All the exit polls predicted that Yogi Adityanath will not come back but he came back in Uttar Pradesh. Last time, they (exit polls) predicted only 80 seats for BJP and 107 for Congress but it came reverse... We are confident with our ground reports and we will come with a comfortable majority," Bommai, while speaking with news agency ANI, said on Thursday.</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> | Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai reacts to Exit Polls on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaAssemblyElection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaAssemblyElection</a>; says, "...As per our ground reports, we are confident we will get comfortable majority...We will get an absolute majority, mark my words." <a href="https://t.co/t4sOS0Gu7M">pic.twitter.com/t4sOS0Gu7M</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656609956555276289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per the exit poll projections, Congress is expected to finish ahead of the BJP. Some pollsters have indicated the possibility of a hung assembly in the state.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (10 May), after the polling ended for the Karnataka elections 2023, CM Bommai while speaking with ANI, was optimistic that exit polls got it all wrong and that he was confident with his party's ground reports.</p>

<p>"Exit polls are, after all, exit polls and even most projections are predicting a close finish. However, from what I have been able to pick up from our ground sources, it is 100 per cent clear that we are going to return with an absolute majority. The real outcome will only be known on May 13. So, let's wait for the result day," Bommai said.</p>

<p>"Exit polls aren't 100 per cent accurate. There will be a five per cent variation in all poll projections, plus and minus, which could make all the difference in the end," he added.</p>

<p>As polling concluded for the Karnataka Elections, the majority of the exit polls have given an edge to the grand old party, Congress with some predicting a hung assembly with an advantage to the party.</p>

<p>Some pollsters have indicated the possibility of a hung assembly in the state predicting former Indian PM, HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal-Secular to play the role of kingmaker. &nbsp;</p>

<p>While India Today-Axis My India exit poll, News24-Today's Chanakya, Times Now ETG-poll, Republic P-MARQ and India TV-CNX predicted Congress hitting a comfortable majority with at least 40 per cent in vote share, News Nation-CGS, Asianet Survana News-Jan Ki Baat predicted a win for BJP.</p>

<h2><strong>'I don't believe Exit poll numbers': </strong>Congress Karnataka's president DK Shivakumar</h2>

<p>Congress Karnataka's president DK Shivakumar, on Wednesday, said that he did not believe in the exit poll results and added that his party will cross the 146-seat mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress MLA said, "My first reaction (to the exit-poll projections) is that I don't believe these numbers. I stand by my assessment, that we will win more than 146 seats. People are knowledgeable and educated and have voted considering the larger interests of the state. The double engine has failed in Karnataka. Such a situation (which might prompt Congress to go into a post-poll alliance) will not arise."</p>

<p>As per an Election Commission report that released late on Wednesday night, the voter turnout stood at 72.67 per cent, excluding the postal ballots and home voting.</p>

<p>The counting of votes for the Karnataka Assembly Elections&nbsp;will be taken up on May 13.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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With exit poll predictions giving an edge to the Congress party over Bharatiya Janata Party in the Karnataka Assembly Elections, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said he was confident that BJP will come to power with a 'complete majority'.

With exit poll predictions giving an edge to the Congress party over Bharatiya Janata Party in the Karnataka Assembly Elections, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said he was confident that BJP will come to power with a 'complete majority'. "All the exit polls predicted that Yogi Adityanath will not come back but he came back in Uttar Pradesh. Last time, they (exit polls) predicted only 80 seats for BJP and 107 for Congress but it came reverse... We are confident with our ground reports and we will come with a comfortable majority," Bommai, while speaking with news agency ANI, said on Thursday. #WATCH | Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai reacts to Exit Polls on #KarnatakaAssemblyElection; says, "...As per our ground reports, we are confident we will get comfortable majority...We will get an absolute majority, mark my words." pic.twitter.com/t4sOS0Gu7M — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2023 × As per the exit poll projections, Congress is expected to finish ahead of the BJP. Some pollsters have indicated the possibility of a hung assembly in the state. On Wednesday (10 May), after the polling ended for the Karnataka elections 2023, CM Bommai while speaking with ANI, was optimistic that exit polls got it all wrong and that he was confident with his party's ground reports. "Exit polls are, after all, exit polls and even most projections are predicting a close finish. However, from what I have been able to pick up from our ground sources, it is 100 per cent clear that we are going to return with an absolute majority. The real outcome will only be known on May 13. So, let's wait for the result day," Bommai said. "Exit polls aren't 100 per cent accurate. There will be a five per cent variation in all poll projections, plus and minus, which could make all the difference in the end," he added. As polling concluded for the Karnataka Elections, the majority of the exit polls have given an edge to the grand old party, Congress with some predicting a hung assembly with an advantage to the party. Some pollsters have indicated the possibility of a hung assembly in the state predicting former Indian PM, HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal-Secular to play the role of kingmaker. While India Today-Axis My India exit poll, News24-Today's Chanakya, Times Now ETG-poll, Republic P-MARQ and India TV-CNX predicted Congress hitting a comfortable majority with at least 40 per cent in vote share, News Nation-CGS, Asianet Survana News-Jan Ki Baat predicted a win for BJP. 'I don't believe Exit poll numbers': Congress Karnataka's president DK Shivakumar Congress Karnataka's president DK Shivakumar, on Wednesday, said that he did not believe in the exit poll results and added that his party will cross the 146-seat mark. The Congress MLA said, "My first reaction (to the exit-poll projections) is that I don't believe these numbers. I stand by my assessment, that we will win more than 146 seats. People are knowledgeable and educated and have voted considering the larger interests of the state. The double engine has failed in Karnataka. Such a situation (which might prompt Congress to go into a post-poll alliance) will not arise." As per an Election Commission report that released late on Wednesday night, the voter turnout stood at 72.67 per cent, excluding the postal ballots and home voting. The counting of votes for the Karnataka Assembly Elections will be taken up on May 13. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Karnataka Elections 2023: CM Bommai confident in BJP's win after exit poll gives edge to Congress

<p>Another low-intensity explosion, the third in less than a week, was reported on Thursday near&nbsp;Guru Ram Dass Inn, in the vicinity of the Golden Temple, which is one of the holiest Sikh shrines in the northern state of Punjab in India. Five conspirators, who allegedly planned the blast, have been arrested, said police. "The motive behind the detonation was to disturb peace. The explosives used in firecrackers were applied in the blast," said the Punjab police sources cited by news agency ANI.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Five conspirators who allegedly planned the Amritsar blast have been nabbed. The motive behind the blast was to disturb peace. Explosives used in firecrackers were applied in the blast. Police to hold a press conference shortly: Punjab police sources <a href="https://t.co/FoY7cU4RRj">pic.twitter.com/FoY7cU4RRj</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656487645583904770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Taking to Twitter, Punjab Director-General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that the case was solved with the arrest of five people involved in the incident.</p>

<p>"Amritsar low-intensity explosion cases solved. 5 persons arrested," Punjab DGP tweeted.<br />
<br />
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Punjab Police collected forensic samples from the site of the blast.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amritsar low intensity explosion cases solved<br />
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5 persons arrested<br />
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Press Conference will be held in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabPoliceInd</a> committed to maintaining peace and harmony in Punjab as per directions of CM <a href="https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhagwantMann</a></p>
— DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1656487334404317184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the press conference held in the city, Punjab DGP revealed that&nbsp;five people, Azadvir Singh, Amreek Singh, Sahib Singh, Harjeet Singh and Dharmendra Singh, were taken into custody. Out of them, three were involved in the sourcing of the explosives. He further added that one woman is also being interrogated in the incident.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have taken into custody five persons- Azadvir Singh, Amreek Singh, Sahib Singh, Harjeet Singh and Dharmendra Singh. Of them, three were involved in the sourcing of the explosives. One woman is also being questioned: Punjab DCP Gaurav Yadav on recent low-intensity explosions… <a href="https://t.co/EWOUE6V3ut">pic.twitter.com/EWOUE6V3ut</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656533878797144066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>First image of suspect out</strong></h2>

<p>The first image of the alleged suspect behind the explosion surfaced on the internet, as per this post shared by ANI quoting Punjab police sources.</p>

<p>In the screenshot from the CCTV footage, the suspect was seen roaming with a man inside Guru Ram Dass Inn premises.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amritsar | Picture of the alleged suspect behind the low-intensity explosion that occurred near Golden temple, last night, as per Punjab Police sources. <a href="https://t.co/BBBeLDaaIz">pic.twitter.com/BBBeLDaaIz</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656509587208675328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A loud explosion was heard near Sri Guru Ram Dass Niwas, in the vicinity of the Golden Temple in Amritsar in the wee hours of Thursday. The incident took place at around 12:30 am on May 11. However, no casualties were reported.</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> | Police and HS Dhami, President of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee at the spot where a loud explosion occurred near Amritsar's Golden Temple last night<br />
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This was the third such explosion in the area in a week. <a href="https://t.co/BBjlBtZjy1">pic.twitter.com/BBjlBtZjy1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656503962651230208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While talking to the reporters, Commissioner of Police Naunihal Singh earlier said, "A loud sound was heard at around 12.15-12.30 am. There's a possibility that it could be another explosion. It's being verified and is yet to be confirmed. We have found some pieces behind the building. But since it is dark we are trying to find out."</p>

<p>"The suspects are being rounded up and the probe is on," he added.</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> | Amritsar: Visuals from outside the building of Shri Guru Ramdas Ji Niwas from where suspects were rounded up in the aftermath of a loud sound, that was heard near the Golden Temple, which, as per the police, could be another explosion.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> <a href="https://t.co/CXzms3FdYw">pic.twitter.com/CXzms3FdYw</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1656444227700801536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Police personnel and forensic team members rushed to the site of the incident and the investigation is underway.</p>

<h2><strong>Two low-intensity explosions near Golden Temple in 3 days at the same spot</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, two explosions rocked the city of Amritsar leaving one person wounded.</p>

<p>The first blast occurred on Saturday night, at around 11:15 pm on a heritage street near the Golden Temple and the other was reported on Monday morning at the same spot.</p>

<p>Amritsar Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Mehtab Singh said that both explosions were of low intensity.<br />
<br />
Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Harjinder Singh Dhami on Thursday accused the state of being a "total failure" in preventing such incidents.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Another low-intensity explosion, the third in less than a week, was reported on Thursday near Guru Ram Dass Inn, in the vicinity of the Golden Temple, which is one of the holiest Sikh shrines in the northern state of Punjab in India.

Another low-intensity explosion, the third in less than a week, was reported on Thursday near Guru Ram Dass Inn, in the vicinity of the Golden Temple, which is one of the holiest Sikh shrines in the northern state of Punjab in India. Five conspirators, who allegedly planned the blast, have been arrested, said police. "The motive behind the detonation was to disturb peace. The explosives used in firecrackers were applied in the blast," said the Punjab police sources cited by news agency ANI. Five conspirators who allegedly planned the Amritsar blast have been nabbed. The motive behind the blast was to disturb peace. Explosives used in firecrackers were applied in the blast. Police to hold a press conference shortly: Punjab police sources pic.twitter.com/FoY7cU4RRj — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2023 × Taking to Twitter, Punjab Director-General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that the case was solved with the arrest of five people involved in the incident. "Amritsar low-intensity explosion cases solved. 5 persons arrested," Punjab DGP tweeted. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Punjab Police collected forensic samples from the site of the blast. Amritsar low intensity explosion cases solved 5 persons arrested Press Conference will be held in #Amritsar @PunjabPoliceInd committed to maintaining peace and harmony in Punjab as per directions of CM @BhagwantMann — DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) May 11, 2023 × During the press conference held in the city, Punjab DGP revealed that five people, Azadvir Singh, Amreek Singh, Sahib Singh, Harjeet Singh and Dharmendra Singh, were taken into custody. Out of them, three were involved in the sourcing of the explosives. He further added that one woman is also being interrogated in the incident. We have taken into custody five persons- Azadvir Singh, Amreek Singh, Sahib Singh, Harjeet Singh and Dharmendra Singh. Of them, three were involved in the sourcing of the explosives. One woman is also being questioned: Punjab DCP Gaurav Yadav on recent low-intensity explosions… pic.twitter.com/EWOUE6V3ut — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2023 × First image of suspect out The first image of the alleged suspect behind the explosion surfaced on the internet, as per this post shared by ANI quoting Punjab police sources. In the screenshot from the CCTV footage, the suspect was seen roaming with a man inside Guru Ram Dass Inn premises. Amritsar | Picture of the alleged suspect behind the low-intensity explosion that occurred near Golden temple, last night, as per Punjab Police sources. pic.twitter.com/BBBeLDaaIz — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2023 × A loud explosion was heard near Sri Guru Ram Dass Niwas, in the vicinity of the Golden Temple in Amritsar in the wee hours of Thursday. The incident took place at around 12:30 am on May 11. However, no casualties were reported. #WATCH | Police and HS Dhami, President of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee at the spot where a loud explosion occurred near Amritsar's Golden Temple last night This was the third such explosion in the area in a week. pic.twitter.com/BBjlBtZjy1 — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2023 × While talking to the reporters, Commissioner of Police Naunihal Singh earlier said, "A loud sound was heard at around 12.15-12.30 am. There's a possibility that it could be another explosion. It's being verified and is yet to be confirmed. We have found some pieces behind the building. But since it is dark we are trying to find out." "The suspects are being rounded up and the probe is on," he added. #WATCH | Amritsar: Visuals from outside the building of Shri Guru Ramdas Ji Niwas from where suspects were rounded up in the aftermath of a loud sound, that was heard near the Golden Temple, which, as per the police, could be another explosion.#Punjab pic.twitter.com/CXzms3FdYw — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2023 × Police personnel and forensic team members rushed to the site of the incident and the investigation is underway. Two low-intensity explosions near Golden Temple in 3 days at the same spot Earlier this week, two explosions rocked the city of Amritsar leaving one person wounded. The first blast occurred on Saturday night, at around 11:15 pm on a heritage street near the Golden Temple and the other was reported on Monday morning at the same spot. Amritsar Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Mehtab Singh said that both explosions were of low intensity. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Harjinder Singh Dhami on Thursday accused the state of being a "total failure" in preventing such incidents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Third blast near Golden Temple at Punjab’s Amritsar in a week, five arrested

<p>Adah Sharma-starrer <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;has been the subject of multiple controversies.&nbsp;Where several ministers have backed the film for 'exposing the ugly truth of terrorism', there have also been&nbsp;protests by various groups demanding a stay on its release. Despite receiving pushback in many states, the movie, starring Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani,&nbsp;Adah Sharma,&nbsp;Pranay Pachuri, and Chandra Shekhar Dutta, among others, in pivotal roles, has already amassed over Rs 45.72 crore on the fifth day of its release and is inching towards the Rs 50 crore mark.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheKeralaStory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheKeralaStory</a> is SENSATIONAL, sets the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BO</a> on 🔥🔥🔥 on Day 2… Shows BIGGG GAINS across all circuits… Hits double digits, a REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT for a film that’s *not* riding on stardom, but word of mouth… Fri 8.03 cr, Sat 11.22 cr. Total: ₹ 19.25 cr. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> biz.… <a href="https://t.co/3FDHvSApjt">pic.twitter.com/3FDHvSApjt</a></p>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1655097482638925824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What is the controversy around <em>The Kerala Story</em>?</strong></h2>

<p>Directed by Sudipto Sen, the film's trailer came under fire for claiming that 32,000 women from Kerala had gone missing and joined the terrorist group, Islamic State. However, the makers later withdrew the contentious figure in the trailer.</p>

<p>The description of it was later changed to a story of three women from Kerala.</p>

<p>The plot of the<i> </i>film, which the makers claim is based on true events, centres around alleged religious indoctrination in the Indian state and how Hindu and Christian women are being targeted by radical Islamic clerics.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Petition filed against the release of film</strong></h2>

<p>Various groups in Kerala staged demonstrations and demanded a stay on the release of the film.</p>

<p>A division bench of the Kerala High Court, however, refused to put a ban&nbsp;and rejected a petition against its release.</p>

<p>After watching the trailer of the movie, the&nbsp;division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole and was about ISIS.</p>

<p>“What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked.</p>

<p>“Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners has watched the movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report.</p>

<p>"There are umpteen movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, and no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh.</p>

<p>"As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said.</p>

<p>The High Court asked petitioners how the movie, which it observed is fiction and not history, would create sectarianism and conflict in society, claiming that secular Kerala will accept the film for what it is.</p>

<p>"Nothing will happen just because the film is screened. The teaser of the film was released in November. What was offensive in the film? What is wrong in saying that Allah is the only God? The country gives the citizen the right to believe in their religion and God and spread it. What was offensive in the trailer?", the court observed.</p>

<h2><strong>Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Kerala High Court order on <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;release</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, the Supreme Court agreed to list on May 15 an appeal against the interim order of the Kerala High Court which refused to stay the release of the film.</p>

<h2><strong>Major political leaders react to the controversy</strong></h2>

<p><em>The&nbsp;Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;also triggered a massive political row with major political leaders reacting to the controversy.</p>

<p>The country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda hailed the film by saying that it exposes a new, poisonous form of terrorism in which ammunition is not used.</p>

<p>"There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;exposes that poisonous terrorism. We have heard of terrorism that involves guns, weapons, and ammunition. But this is a dangerous kind of terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion," he said.</p>

<p>"The movie shows how youths are being influenced and made to follow wrong paths," the BJP chief added.</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> | "There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, 'Kerala Story' exposes that poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion...": BJP chief JP Nadda speaks about the film 'The Kerala Story' after watching the movie in… <a href="https://t.co/lkJcvuJfdD">pic.twitter.com/lkJcvuJfdD</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1655313862995103744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing an election rally in Karnataka, also backed the film saying that it is based on a terror conspiracy and shows the ugly truth of terrorism.</p>

<p>"<em>The Kerala Stor</em>y&nbsp;is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes the design of terrorists," PM Modi 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> | 'The Kerala Story' film is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists' design. Congress is opposing the film made on terrorism and standing with terror tendencies. Congress has shielded terrorism for the vote bank: PM… <a href="https://t.co/qlUQlc3qQf">pic.twitter.com/qlUQlc3qQf</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1654414222816866305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the other hand, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader MLA Jitendra Awhad&nbsp;lashed out at the makers of the film calling for the producer to be hanged in public.</p>

<p>"Under the name of <em>The Kerala Story</em>, a state and its women were defamed. The official figure of three was projected as 32,000. The person who produced this fictional movie should be hanged in public,"&nbsp;ANI quoted the NCP leader as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>West Bengal government bans the<i> </i>film</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the West Bengal government announced its decision to ban the<em>&nbsp;</em>film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency ANI quoted Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee as saying, “West Bengal government&nbsp;has decided to ban the movie <em>The Kerala Story</em>. This is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and to maintain peace in the state.”</p>

<p>She also said, “What is <em>The Kashmir files</em>? it is to humiliate one section. What is <em>The Kerala story</em>?... It is a distorted story.” Reacting to the decision, film producer Vipul Shah said, “If that is what she has done, we will take legal action. Whatever is possible under the provisions of law, we will fight.”</p>

<h2><strong><em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;crew member receives threat message</strong></h2>

<p>One of <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;crew members received a threat message from an unknown number, according to the Mumbai Police.</p>

<p>"The message threatened the said person not to step out alone from home and that they didn't do a good thing by showing the story," police said.</p>

<h2><strong>Bollywood celebrities react to <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;controversy</strong></h2>

<p>Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri took to Twitter and told the cast and crew of the<em>&nbsp;</em>film&nbsp;that their 'lives will not be the same' as they 'will receive unimaginable hate'.</p>

<p>The filmmaker posted a note telling the team&nbsp;about the 'bad news'.</p>

<p>"CINEMA AND INDIC RENNIASANCE: <em>The Kerala Story</em>. I grew up listening to great filmmakers and cinema critics that the only purpose of art is to provoke people into questioning their own beliefs and biases. I also grew up listening that cinema reflects the reality of society. I was told that cinema must destroy old Gods and create new Gods," Vivek started the thread on Twitter.</p>

<p>"I have come to realise that in modern times, cinema has the power to do what media and politics can`t do. It can present uncomfortable reality, correct history, fight culture war and also become the soft power of a nation for larger interest. In India, making such cinema is not easy."</p>

<p>"I tried it with <em>Buddha In A Traffic Jam</em>, <em>The Tashkent Files</em> and <em>The Kashmir Files</em>. I have been physically, professionally, socially and psychologically assaulted."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">CINEMA AND INDIC RENNIASANCE:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheKeralaStory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheKeralaStory</a><br />
<br />
I grew up listening to great filmmakers and cinema critics that the only purpose of art is to provoke people into questioning their own beliefs and biases.<br />
<br />
I also grew up listening that cinema reflects the reality of a society.<br />
<br />
I…</p>
— Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) <a href="https://twitter.com/vivekagnihotri/status/1654726778269884423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ace Bollywood actor Anupam Kher also opened up about the controversy surrounding the film, saying that the same people who are opposing <em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;also criticised <em>The Kashmir Files</em>.</p>

<p>Anupam told the news agency ANI, “They are the same faces who are opposing such films and they can be seen everywhere. Be it CAA protest or Shaheen Bagh protest or JNU protest. They were the same faces who criticised <em>The Kashmir Files</em>. I don't know their motive and neither believe in paying attention towards them. In fact, they have become redundant."</p>

<p>He added, "Again I would say they are the same faces. I have not seen the film but I am happy that people are making films which are close to reality. And those who feel it is propaganda are free to make movies dealing with the subject they find perfect. No one is stopping them.”</p>

<h2><strong><em>The Kerala Story</em>&nbsp;tax-free in these states</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took to his Twitter handle and announced that the film will be made tax-free in the state.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">'The Kerala Story' उत्तर प्रदेश में टैक्स फ्री की जाएगी।</p>
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath/status/1655779115381686273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan made the movie tax-free in the state on May 6.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Adah Sharma-starrer The Kerala Story has been the subject of multiple controversies. Where several ministers have backed the film for 'exposing the ugly truth of terrorism', there have also been protests by various groups demanding a stay on its release.

Adah Sharma-starrer The Kerala Story has been the subject of multiple controversies. Where several ministers have backed the film for 'exposing the ugly truth of terrorism', there have also been protests by various groups demanding a stay on its release. Despite receiving pushback in many states, the movie, starring Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani, Adah Sharma, Pranay Pachuri, and Chandra Shekhar Dutta, among others, in pivotal roles, has already amassed over Rs 45.72 crore on the fifth day of its release and is inching towards the Rs 50 crore mark. #TheKeralaStory is SENSATIONAL, sets the #BO on 🔥🔥🔥 on Day 2… Shows BIGGG GAINS across all circuits… Hits double digits, a REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT for a film that’s *not* riding on stardom, but word of mouth… Fri 8.03 cr, Sat 11.22 cr. Total: ₹ 19.25 cr. #India biz.… pic.twitter.com/3FDHvSApjt — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) May 7, 2023 × What is the controversy around The Kerala Story? Directed by Sudipto Sen, the film's trailer came under fire for claiming that 32,000 women from Kerala had gone missing and joined the terrorist group, Islamic State. However, the makers later withdrew the contentious figure in the trailer. The description of it was later changed to a story of three women from Kerala. The plot of the film, which the makers claim is based on true events, centres around alleged religious indoctrination in the Indian state and how Hindu and Christian women are being targeted by radical Islamic clerics. Petition filed against the release of film Various groups in Kerala staged demonstrations and demanded a stay on the release of the film. A division bench of the Kerala High Court, however, refused to put a ban and rejected a petition against its release. After watching the trailer of the movie, the division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole and was about ISIS. “What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked. “Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners has watched the movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report. "There are umpteen movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, and no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh. "As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said. The High Court asked petitioners how the movie, which it observed is fiction and not history, would create sectarianism and conflict in society, claiming that secular Kerala will accept the film for what it is. "Nothing will happen just because the film is screened. The teaser of the film was released in November. What was offensive in the film? What is wrong in saying that Allah is the only God? The country gives the citizen the right to believe in their religion and God and spread it. What was offensive in the trailer?", the court observed. Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Kerala High Court order on The Kerala Story release On Tuesday, the Supreme Court agreed to list on May 15 an appeal against the interim order of the Kerala High Court which refused to stay the release of the film. Major political leaders react to the controversy The Kerala Story also triggered a massive political row with major political leaders reacting to the controversy. The country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda hailed the film by saying that it exposes a new, poisonous form of terrorism in which ammunition is not used. "There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, The Kerala Story exposes that poisonous terrorism. We have heard of terrorism that involves guns, weapons, and ammunition. But this is a dangerous kind of terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion," he said. "The movie shows how youths are being influenced and made to follow wrong paths," the BJP chief added. #WATCH | "There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, 'Kerala Story' exposes that poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion...": BJP chief JP Nadda speaks about the film 'The Kerala Story' after watching the movie in… pic.twitter.com/lkJcvuJfdD — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2023 × Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing an election rally in Karnataka, also backed the film saying that it is based on a terror conspiracy and shows the ugly truth of terrorism. "The Kerala Story is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes the design of terrorists," PM Modi said. #WATCH | 'The Kerala Story' film is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists' design. Congress is opposing the film made on terrorism and standing with terror tendencies. Congress has shielded terrorism for the vote bank: PM… pic.twitter.com/qlUQlc3qQf — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2023 × On the other hand, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader MLA Jitendra Awhad lashed out at the makers of the film calling for the producer to be hanged in public. "Under the name of The Kerala Story, a state and its women were defamed. The official figure of three was projected as 32,000. The person who produced this fictional movie should be hanged in public," ANI quoted the NCP leader as saying. West Bengal government bans the film On Monday, the West Bengal government announced its decision to ban the film. News agency ANI quoted Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee as saying, “West Bengal government has decided to ban the movie The Kerala Story. This is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and to maintain peace in the state.” She also said, “What is The Kashmir files? it is to humiliate one section. What is The Kerala story?... It is a distorted story.” Reacting to the decision, film producer Vipul Shah said, “If that is what she has done, we will take legal action. Whatever is possible under the provisions of law, we will fight.” The Kerala Story crew member receives threat message One of The Kerala Story crew members received a threat message from an unknown number, according to the Mumbai Police. "The message threatened the said person not to step out alone from home and that they didn't do a good thing by showing the story," police said. Bollywood celebrities react to The Kerala Story controversy Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri took to Twitter and told the cast and crew of the film that their 'lives will not be the same' as they 'will receive unimaginable hate'. The filmmaker posted a note telling the team about the 'bad news'. "CINEMA AND INDIC RENNIASANCE: The Kerala Story. I grew up listening to great filmmakers and cinema critics that the only purpose of art is to provoke people into questioning their own beliefs and biases. I also grew up listening that cinema reflects the reality of society. I was told that cinema must destroy old Gods and create new Gods," Vivek started the thread on Twitter. "I have come to realise that in modern times, cinema has the power to do what media and politics can`t do. It can present uncomfortable reality, correct history, fight culture war and also become the soft power of a nation for larger interest. In India, making such cinema is not easy." "I tried it with Buddha In A Traffic Jam, The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. I have been physically, professionally, socially and psychologically assaulted." CINEMA AND INDIC RENNIASANCE:#TheKeralaStory I grew up listening to great filmmakers and cinema critics that the only purpose of art is to provoke people into questioning their own beliefs and biases. I also grew up listening that cinema reflects the reality of a society. I… — Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) May 6, 2023 × Ace Bollywood actor Anupam Kher also opened up about the controversy surrounding the film, saying that the same people who are opposing The Kerala Story also criticised The Kashmir Files. Anupam told the news agency ANI, “They are the same faces who are opposing such films and they can be seen everywhere. Be it CAA protest or Shaheen Bagh protest or JNU protest. They were the same faces who criticised The Kashmir Files. I don't know their motive and neither believe in paying attention towards them. In fact, they have become redundant." He added, "Again I would say they are the same faces. I have not seen the film but I am happy that people are making films which are close to reality. And those who feel it is propaganda are free to make movies dealing with the subject they find perfect. No one is stopping them.” The Kerala Story tax-free in these states On Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took to his Twitter handle and announced that the film will be made tax-free in the state. 'The Kerala Story' उत्तर प्रदेश में टैक्स फ्री की जाएगी। — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) May 9, 2023 × Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan made the movie tax-free in the state on May 6. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Why are various sections squabbling over The Kerala Story?

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, a day before the Karnataka polls, wrote an open letter to the people of the southern state of India thanking them for showering him with constant love and affection and further highlighting his party, BJP's, commitment to the growth and development of the state.</p>

<p>"You have always showered me with love and affection. It feels like a divine blessing to me. In our 'Azaadi ka Amrit Kaal', we Indians have aimed to make our beloved country a developed nation. Karnataka is keen to lead the movement to realise its vision", PM Modi said in his letter.</p>

<p>"India is the fifth-largest economy. Our next aim is to reach the top three. This is possible only when Karnataka rapidly grows to become a USD 1 trillion economy," the letter read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Karnataka received over Rs 90,000 crore annually as foreign investment under the BJP government. It was just around Rs 30,000 crore under the previous government," the PM wrote.</p>

<p>"We want to make Karnataka number 1 in investment, industry and innovation and number 1 in education, employment and entrepreneurship," PM underlined his party's commitment.</p>

<p>"We are working to empower the farmers with a 'Beej Se Bazar Tak' vision. Through new irrigation projects, expansion of storage facilities, increasing ethanol blending usage of nano area and modern technology such as drones, BJP is committed to making Karnataka the number 1 in agriculture," it read.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi writes an open letter to the people of Karnataka… <a href="https://t.co/PrAIcdgNCu">pic.twitter.com/PrAIcdgNCu</a></p>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1655767703783653377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>He further stated in his letter, "The BJP government will continue to work to create next-gen urban infrastructure in Karnataka, modernise transport, raise the quality of life in rural and urban areas, and create opportunities for women and youth."</p>

<p>"The dream of every citizen of Karnataka is my dream," wrote the PM.</p>

<p>"My appeal is for the bright future of Karnataka. It is for the bright future of your family, especially the younger generations," the letter read.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi urges people to vote in large numbers</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister, on Wednesday, urged the people of Karnataka, particularly the 'young and first-time voters' to vote in large numbers in the assembly elections.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Urging the people of Karnataka, particularly young and first time voters to vote in large numbers and enrich the festival of democracy.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1656108506922246154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023</strong></h2>

<p>The tenure of the Karnataka Assembly, the seventh-largest body in terms of strength, will end on May 24, 2023. Thus, the state has gone to polls on May 10, 2023, for all 224 constituencies. The elections will be in a single phase, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) will announce the results of the Karnataka Assembly elections on May 13, 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, a day before the Karnataka polls, wrote an open letter to the people of the southern state of India thanking them for showering him with constant love and affection and further highlighting his party, BJP's, commitment to the growth and development of the state.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, a day before the Karnataka polls, wrote an open letter to the people of the southern state of India thanking them for showering him with constant love and affection and further highlighting his party, BJP's, commitment to the growth and development of the state. "You have always showered me with love and affection. It feels like a divine blessing to me. In our 'Azaadi ka Amrit Kaal', we Indians have aimed to make our beloved country a developed nation. Karnataka is keen to lead the movement to realise its vision", PM Modi said in his letter. "India is the fifth-largest economy. Our next aim is to reach the top three. This is possible only when Karnataka rapidly grows to become a USD 1 trillion economy," the letter read. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Karnataka received over Rs 90,000 crore annually as foreign investment under the BJP government. It was just around Rs 30,000 crore under the previous government," the PM wrote. "We want to make Karnataka number 1 in investment, industry and innovation and number 1 in education, employment and entrepreneurship," PM underlined his party's commitment. "We are working to empower the farmers with a 'Beej Se Bazar Tak' vision. Through new irrigation projects, expansion of storage facilities, increasing ethanol blending usage of nano area and modern technology such as drones, BJP is committed to making Karnataka the number 1 in agriculture," it read. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi writes an open letter to the people of Karnataka… pic.twitter.com/PrAIcdgNCu — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 9, 2023 × He further stated in his letter, "The BJP government will continue to work to create next-gen urban infrastructure in Karnataka, modernise transport, raise the quality of life in rural and urban areas, and create opportunities for women and youth." "The dream of every citizen of Karnataka is my dream," wrote the PM. "My appeal is for the bright future of Karnataka. It is for the bright future of your family, especially the younger generations," the letter read. PM Modi urges people to vote in large numbers The Indian Prime Minister, on Wednesday, urged the people of Karnataka, particularly the 'young and first-time voters' to vote in large numbers in the assembly elections. Urging the people of Karnataka, particularly young and first time voters to vote in large numbers and enrich the festival of democracy. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 10, 2023 × Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 The tenure of the Karnataka Assembly, the seventh-largest body in terms of strength, will end on May 24, 2023. Thus, the state has gone to polls on May 10, 2023, for all 224 constituencies. The elections will be in a single phase, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) will announce the results of the Karnataka Assembly elections on May 13, 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi writes open letter to people of Karnataka, underlines party's commitment to make state 'no. 1'

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