India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in the southern Karnataka state's Bengaluru city in March.

This is the fifth person to be arrested by the agency in the case.

The accused has been identified as 35-year-old Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu who was an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) &nbsp;terror conspiracy case. He is a resident of Hubbali City in Karnataka.

"Three days after a massive crackdown across four states in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the NIA on Friday arrested one more accused, identified as an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case," the agency said in a statement.

NIA stated that after being released from prison, Mirza got involved in this conspiracy.

In 2018, he became friends with accused Abdul Matheen Taahaa and introduced him to an online handler who is suspected to be living abroad, said the federal probe agency.

Mirza then set up an e-mail ID in order to establish a channel for encrypted communication between the handler and Abdul Matheen Taahaa.

Taahaa was apprehended on April 12 along with co-accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib from Kolkata in the eastern state of West Bengal.

Shazib, as per the agency, had placed the IED at Rameshwaram cafe, and Taahaa was the 'mastermind' of the conspiracy.

"The absconders in the Rameswaram Cafe blast case, Abdul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and apprehended by an NIA team. In the early morning hours of April 12, the NIA successfully traced the absconding accused near Kolkata, where they were hiding under false identities," the NIA statement said.

"Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the IED at the café, and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of the blast, and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law," NIA added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-nia-nabs-the-mastermind-and-man-who-planted-ied-from-near-kolkata-710416">Also read:&nbsp;Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata</a>

<h2>NIA conducts raids at 11 places in four states</h2>

The development comes after the federal probe agency, in a massive crackdown, conducted raids at several locations in four states to uncover the Rameshwaram Cafe blast conspiracy.

NIA teams searched 11 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, said the agency.

The blast at Rameshwaram Cafe in the Whitefield area of Bengaluru took place &nbsp;on March 1, wounding nine people and causing severe damage to the eatery.

The Federal probe agency took over the case from the Karnataka Police on March 3.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in the southern Karnataka state's Bengaluru city in March.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday (May 24) arrested another accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case that took place in the southern Karnataka state's Bengaluru city in March. This is the fifth person to be arrested by the agency in the case. The accused has been identified as 35-year-old Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu who was an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case. He is a resident of Hubbali City in Karnataka. "Three days after a massive crackdown across four states in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the NIA on Friday arrested one more accused, identified as an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case," the agency said in a statement. NIA stated that after being released from prison, Mirza got involved in this conspiracy. In 2018, he became friends with accused Abdul Matheen Taahaa and introduced him to an online handler who is suspected to be living abroad, said the federal probe agency. Mirza then set up an e-mail ID in order to establish a channel for encrypted communication between the handler and Abdul Matheen Taahaa. Taahaa was apprehended on April 12 along with co-accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib from Kolkata in the eastern state of West Bengal. Shazib, as per the agency, had placed the IED at Rameshwaram cafe, and Taahaa was the 'mastermind' of the conspiracy. "The absconders in the Rameswaram Cafe blast case, Abdul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and apprehended by an NIA team. In the early morning hours of April 12, the NIA successfully traced the absconding accused near Kolkata, where they were hiding under false identities," the NIA statement said. "Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the IED at the café, and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of the blast, and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law," NIA added. Also read: Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata NIA conducts raids at 11 places in four states The development comes after the federal probe agency, in a massive crackdown, conducted raids at several locations in four states to uncover the Rameshwaram Cafe blast conspiracy. NIA teams searched 11 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, said the agency. The blast at Rameshwaram Cafe in the Whitefield area of Bengaluru took place on March 1, wounding nine people and causing severe damage to the eatery. The Federal probe agency took over the case from the Karnataka Police on March 3. (With inputs from agencies)

India's NIA arrests ex-Lashkar-e-Taiba convict in connection with Rameshwaram cafe blast

CCTV footage of the Dombivali boiler blast recently surfaced on the internet which showed the moment when the incident took place on Thursday (May 23) in the west Indian state of Maharashtra.

Four workers can be seen standing at a corner of the boiler plant, moments before the blast occurred.

Then after a loud thud happened, triggered by the blast, the broken pieces of glass flew in the air and the people immediately ran from the building to save their lives.

The blast occurred in a chemical factory in the Dombivli area of Thane district in Maharashtra, which claimed the lives of 10 people. The rescue operation is still underway to retrieve two individuals who are reportedly missing.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Thane, Maharashtra: CCTV visuals show the moment when the incident of Dombivali boiler blast occurred yesterday, 23rd May. Seven people died and several others got injured in the incident. 
 
(Video: CCTV visuals confirmed by Police) <a href="https://t.co/Wb03gAckyy">pic.twitter.com/Wb03gAckyy</a>
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&nbsp;

The blast led to a massive fire in the area, cooling operations for which are still ongoing.

Siddhesh Kadam, Chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, inspected the site on Friday (May 24) and said that the team was working to complete the rescue operation as soon as possible.

"There have been a total of 10 casualties here, with 2 people missing, so the rescue operation is ongoing. We are working to complete this rescue operation as soon as possible and dealing with the hazardous chemicals," Kadam said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-helicopter-with-pilgrims-onboard-makes-emergency-landing-in-kedarnath-724863">Watch: Helicopter with pilgrims onboard makes emergency landing in Kedarnath</a>

<h2>Maharashtra CM announces Rs 500,000 compensation for family of victims</h2>

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday announced a Rs 500,000 compensation for the family of the deceased and also ordered a high-level probe into the incident.

"A high-level enquiry will be conducted and an investigation will be carried out against the accused. No one will be spared. The kin of the deceased will be given Rs 500,000 each by the state government. The administration will sponsor the treatment of the injured... The company will also compensate the employees," CM Shinde told reporters.

"The intensity of the blast was very high. 6-7 neighbouring factories have been damaged. Residential properties have also been damaged. Highly hazardous companies such as this, which fall under the Red category, will be shifted... The government has decided to shift such factories to non-residential areas," he added. &nbsp;

<h2>Case registered against company owners&nbsp;</h2>

The Thane Police have also registered a case against the owners Malti Pradeep Mehta, Malay Pradeep Mehta, and other officials of Amudan Chemical Private Limited, under various sections of the IPC, including 304, 324, 326, 285, 286, 427, and 34.&nbsp;

All of the accused are absconding and the police have formed five teams to arrest them.

"The accused is absconding after a case was registered against the Mehta family and the owner of the Amudan factory. A total of 5 teams have been formed to arrest the accused and are tracing the accused," Thane Police said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

CCTV footage of the Dombivali boiler blast recently surfaced on the internet which showed the moment when the incident took place on Thursday (May 23) in the west Indian state of Maharashtra.

CCTV footage of the Dombivali boiler blast recently surfaced on the internet which showed the moment when the incident took place on Thursday (May 23) in the west Indian state of Maharashtra. Four workers can be seen standing at a corner of the boiler plant, moments before the blast occurred. Then after a loud thud happened, triggered by the blast, the broken pieces of glass flew in the air and the people immediately ran from the building to save their lives. The blast occurred in a chemical factory in the Dombivli area of Thane district in Maharashtra, which claimed the lives of 10 people. The rescue operation is still underway to retrieve two individuals who are reportedly missing. #WATCH | Thane, Maharashtra: CCTV visuals show the moment when the incident of Dombivali boiler blast occurred yesterday, 23rd May. Seven people died and several others got injured in the incident. (Video: CCTV visuals confirmed by Police) pic.twitter.com/Wb03gAckyy — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2024 × The blast led to a massive fire in the area, cooling operations for which are still ongoing. Siddhesh Kadam, Chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, inspected the site on Friday (May 24) and said that the team was working to complete the rescue operation as soon as possible. "There have been a total of 10 casualties here, with 2 people missing, so the rescue operation is ongoing. We are working to complete this rescue operation as soon as possible and dealing with the hazardous chemicals," Kadam said. Also read: Watch: Helicopter with pilgrims onboard makes emergency landing in Kedarnath Maharashtra CM announces Rs 500,000 compensation for family of victims Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday announced a Rs 500,000 compensation for the family of the deceased and also ordered a high-level probe into the incident. "A high-level enquiry will be conducted and an investigation will be carried out against the accused. No one will be spared. The kin of the deceased will be given Rs 500,000 each by the state government. The administration will sponsor the treatment of the injured... The company will also compensate the employees," CM Shinde told reporters. "The intensity of the blast was very high. 6-7 neighbouring factories have been damaged. Residential properties have also been damaged. Highly hazardous companies such as this, which fall under the Red category, will be shifted... The government has decided to shift such factories to non-residential areas," he added. Case registered against company owners The Thane Police have also registered a case against the owners Malti Pradeep Mehta, Malay Pradeep Mehta, and other officials of Amudan Chemical Private Limited, under various sections of the IPC, including 304, 324, 326, 285, 286, 427, and 34. All of the accused are absconding and the police have formed five teams to arrest them. "The accused is absconding after a case was registered against the Mehta family and the owner of the Amudan factory. A total of 5 teams have been formed to arrest the accused and are tracing the accused," Thane Police said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: CCTV footage shows moment when Dombivali boiler blast occurred

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (May 24), reacting to the Karnataka obscene video case, revealed that the MEA received a request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21.

The JDS MP from Hassan has been absconding after being allegedly accused of sexual harassment by a woman who worked in his household. Reportedly, he fled to Germany in April.

He is facing a probe by a Special Investigative Team (SIT) constituted by the Karnataka government over the serious allegations levelled against him.

"To impound a passport is governed by an act called the Passport Act. We need a judicial court or a police request to do so. The MEA got this request from Karnataka only on May 21," said Jaishankar in a chat with news agency ANI.

He further stated that the government had immediately acted upon receiving the request and that the process had been initiated.

"We immediately acted on it. On 23rd of May... we have to follow a certain procedure and the procedure is initiated," he added.

Reacting to the Congress government's accusations alleging that the BJP - which is in an electoral alliance with JD (S) in Karnataka- was shielding Revanna, Jaishankar said, "They did not take the first step... I mean, he's not the first case where impounding a passport is taking place."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-sex-scandal-arrest-warrant-issued-against-jds-mp-prajwal-revanna-722937">Also read:&nbsp;Karnataka sex scandal: Arrest warrant issued against JDS MP Prajwal Revanna</a>

<h2>Deve Gowda issues 'stern warning' to grandson Prajwal Revanna to return to India</h2>

Jaishankar's remarks come a day after former Indian prime minister and JD (S) party supremo HD Deve Gowda issued a stern warning to his grandson Revanna, asking him to return to India and face the law.

Gowda shared a statement on his official X handle that asked Revanna to surrender before the police.

He also said that if found guilty, his grandson should not be spared and be given the harshest punishment under the law.

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I have issued a warning to <a href="https://twitter.com/iPrajwalRevanna?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iPrajwalRevanna</a> to return immediately from wherever he is and subject himself to the legal process. He should not test my patience any further. <a href="https://t.co/kCMuNJOvAo">pic.twitter.com/kCMuNJOvAo</a>
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&nbsp;

"At this juncture, I can do only one thing; I can issue a stern warning to Prajwal and ask him to return from wherever he is and surrender before the police. He should subject himself to the legal process," the former Indian prime minister said in a statement.

He then clarified that it was "not an appeal that I am making, it is a warning that I am issuing".

"If he does not heed this warning, he will have to face my anger and anger of all his family members. The law will take care of the accusations against him, but not listening to the family will ensure his total isolation. If he has any respect left for me, he has to return immediately," Gowda said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (May 24), reacting to the Karnataka obscene video case, revealed that the MEA received a request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (May 24), reacting to the Karnataka obscene video case, revealed that the MEA received a request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21. The JDS MP from Hassan has been absconding after being allegedly accused of sexual harassment by a woman who worked in his household. Reportedly, he fled to Germany in April. He is facing a probe by a Special Investigative Team (SIT) constituted by the Karnataka government over the serious allegations levelled against him. "To impound a passport is governed by an act called the Passport Act. We need a judicial court or a police request to do so. The MEA got this request from Karnataka only on May 21," said Jaishankar in a chat with news agency ANI. He further stated that the government had immediately acted upon receiving the request and that the process had been initiated. "We immediately acted on it. On 23rd of May... we have to follow a certain procedure and the procedure is initiated," he added. Reacting to the Congress government's accusations alleging that the BJP - which is in an electoral alliance with JD (S) in Karnataka- was shielding Revanna, Jaishankar said, "They did not take the first step... I mean, he's not the first case where impounding a passport is taking place." Also read: Karnataka sex scandal: Arrest warrant issued against JDS MP Prajwal Revanna Deve Gowda issues 'stern warning' to grandson Prajwal Revanna to return to India Jaishankar's remarks come a day after former Indian prime minister and JD (S) party supremo HD Deve Gowda issued a stern warning to his grandson Revanna, asking him to return to India and face the law. Gowda shared a statement on his official X handle that asked Revanna to surrender before the police. He also said that if found guilty, his grandson should not be spared and be given the harshest punishment under the law. I have issued a warning to @iPrajwalRevanna to return immediately from wherever he is and subject himself to the legal process. He should not test my patience any further. pic.twitter.com/kCMuNJOvAo — H D Deve Gowda (@H_D_Devegowda) May 23, 2024 × "At this juncture, I can do only one thing; I can issue a stern warning to Prajwal and ask him to return from wherever he is and surrender before the police. He should subject himself to the legal process," the former Indian prime minister said in a statement. He then clarified that it was "not an appeal that I am making, it is a warning that I am issuing". "If he does not heed this warning, he will have to face my anger and anger of all his family members. The law will take care of the accusations against him, but not listening to the family will ensure his total isolation. If he has any respect left for me, he has to return immediately," Gowda said. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka sex abuse case: Jaishankar says MEA got request to impound Prajwal Revanna's passport only on May 21

A gas cylinder exploded in the Indian state of Gujarat on Thursday (May 23) after which several people experienced difficulty in breathing and were rushed to the hospital.

The incident took place&nbsp;in a scrap shop near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur in Banaskantha.&nbsp;

An official of Palanpur Civil Hospital said that the gas had spread in the area making it difficult for the people to breathe.

As per the official, around 60-70 people were brought to the hospital. One of them was in critical condition and on a ventilator.

"The gas also spread in the area and people faced difficulty in breathing. Around 60-70 people were brought to Palanpur Civil Hospital. One patient is critical and he is on a ventilator. Currently, around 30 patients are still under treatment," said the official.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Banaskantha, Gujarat: Several people were admitted to hospital after a gas cylinder exploded in a scrap shop near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur 
 
"The gas also spread in the area and people faced difficulty in breathing. Around 60-70 people were brought to Palanpur Civil… <a href="https://t.co/WxTuR1AZPd">pic.twitter.com/WxTuR1AZPd</a>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-north-block-put-on-high-alert-after-police-receive-bomb-threat-mail-724291">Delhi’s North Block put on high alert after police receive bomb threat mail</a>

Banaskantha Superintendent of Police (SP) said, "Today around 6 pm, an incident of gas leakage was reported in the area near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur city area. As soon as information about the incident was received, the administration and police department immediately reached the spot."&nbsp;

"Around 89 people have been shifted to Palanpur Civil Hospital and none of them are in danger right now. The reason behind the gas leak is being investigated. Preliminary it seems that the gas has leaked from a scrap shop," he added.

A probe has been launched into the incident to ascertain the cause behind the explosion.

(With inputs from agencies)

A gas cylinder exploded in the Indian state of Gujarat on Thursday (May 23) after which several people experienced difficulty in breathing and were rushed to the hospital.

A gas cylinder exploded in the Indian state of Gujarat on Thursday (May 23) after which several people experienced difficulty in breathing and were rushed to the hospital. The incident took place in a scrap shop near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur in Banaskantha. An official of Palanpur Civil Hospital said that the gas had spread in the area making it difficult for the people to breathe. As per the official, around 60-70 people were brought to the hospital. One of them was in critical condition and on a ventilator. "The gas also spread in the area and people faced difficulty in breathing. Around 60-70 people were brought to Palanpur Civil Hospital. One patient is critical and he is on a ventilator. Currently, around 30 patients are still under treatment," said the official. #WATCH | Banaskantha, Gujarat: Several people were admitted to hospital after a gas cylinder exploded in a scrap shop near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur "The gas also spread in the area and people faced difficulty in breathing. Around 60-70 people were brought to Palanpur Civil… pic.twitter.com/WxTuR1AZPd — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2024 × Also read: Delhi’s North Block put on high alert after police receive bomb threat mail Banaskantha Superintendent of Police (SP) said, "Today around 6 pm, an incident of gas leakage was reported in the area near the Malan Darwaja of Palanpur city area. As soon as information about the incident was received, the administration and police department immediately reached the spot." "Around 89 people have been shifted to Palanpur Civil Hospital and none of them are in danger right now. The reason behind the gas leak is being investigated. Preliminary it seems that the gas has leaked from a scrap shop," he added. A probe has been launched into the incident to ascertain the cause behind the explosion. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Over 70 people hospitalised after gas cylinder explodes in Gujarat's Palanpur

The United States is all set to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station by the end of 2024, revealed US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti.

The US envoy further said that by the end of this year, the NISAR project, a joint Earth-observing mission between the US space agency NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), will most likely be launched.

“We are going to put an Indian astronaut into the International Space Station this year," Garcetti said.

“We promised when PM (Narendra) Modi came (to the US in 2023) that by the end of this year, we will do this and our mission is still on track to be able to go in space this year,” he added.

The US ambassador spoke on the sidelines of an event organised to mark the United States' 248th Independence Day.

He then said that both India and the United States should consider coordinating research and collaborating around the critical emerging technologies so that they can fully make use of each other’s strengths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4-dead-and-35-injured-as-iowa-reels-from-tornado-724426">At least 5 killed, 35 injured as tornado wreaks havoc in Iowa</a>

Lauding India's ‘Chandrayaan 3’, the diplomat said that last year, India made its lunar mission a success at a fraction of the cost that the United States incurred on a similar mission.

“The US has some capacities that India still doesn't have today. When the two are combined, both countries have those capacities,” he said.

Garcetti further speaking about the civilian nuclear energy arena, said that after the general elections in the country, the Indian government can address liability issues and move forward “arm in arm and hand in hand”.

Two sites in India- Mithi Virdhi in Gujarat and Kovadda in Andhra Pradesh- have been reserved for US firms to construct more nuclear reactors.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States is all set to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station by the end of 2024, revealed US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti. The US envoy further said that by the end of this year, the NISAR project, a joint Earth-observing mission between the US space agency NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), will most likely be launched.

The United States is all set to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station by the end of 2024, revealed US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti. The US envoy further said that by the end of this year, the NISAR project, a joint Earth-observing mission between the US space agency NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), will most likely be launched. “We are going to put an Indian astronaut into the International Space Station this year," Garcetti said. “We promised when PM (Narendra) Modi came (to the US in 2023) that by the end of this year, we will do this and our mission is still on track to be able to go in space this year,” he added. The US ambassador spoke on the sidelines of an event organised to mark the United States' 248th Independence Day. He then said that both India and the United States should consider coordinating research and collaborating around the critical emerging technologies so that they can fully make use of each other’s strengths. Also read: At least 5 killed, 35 injured as tornado wreaks havoc in Iowa Lauding India's ‘Chandrayaan 3’, the diplomat said that last year, India made its lunar mission a success at a fraction of the cost that the United States incurred on a similar mission. “The US has some capacities that India still doesn't have today. When the two are combined, both countries have those capacities,” he said. Garcetti further speaking about the civilian nuclear energy arena, said that after the general elections in the country, the Indian government can address liability issues and move forward “arm in arm and hand in hand”. Two sites in India- Mithi Virdhi in Gujarat and Kovadda in Andhra Pradesh- have been reserved for US firms to construct more nuclear reactors. (With inputs from agencies)

United States to send Indian astronaut to International Space Station by end of 2024, says US envoy

Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan has been released from prison after serving four years for her coverage of Beijing's Covid-19 response, according to a video released by media watchdog Reporters Without Borders.

However, rights groups said Zhang was still under surveillance and that her freedom was extremely limited.&nbsp;

Zhang, a former lawyer, travelled to the central city of Wuhan in February 2020 to report on the chaos at the pandemic's epicentre, questioning the authorities' handling of the outbreak in her smartphone videos.

She was detained in May 2020 and sentenced seven months later to four years in jail for "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" -- a charge routinely used to suppress dissent.

Zhang was due to be released on May 13 but a lack of information about her whereabouts had sparked concern among rights groups and activists that she could still be detained.

A short video featuring a pyjama-clad Zhang shared by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on Wednesday appeared to show she had been released as scheduled.

"Police released me from prison at five in the morning on May 13 and sent me to my older brother's home in Shanghai," Zhang said in the video, in a soft, halting voice.

"Thank you everyone for your help and concern, I wish you all the best... there is not much more that I can say," Zhang said.

It was unclear who filmed the video, with RSF saying it was released "via an intermediary".

While Zhang appears to have been released, "her contact with the outside world and daily life are all under surveillance", Jane Wang, a UK-based activist involved in the campaign to release and locate Zhang, wrote on social media platform X.

"She only has limited freedom," Wang said.

Activists as well as the United Nations' rights office have expressed concern about 40-year-old Zhang's health after she conducted several hunger strikes in prison to protest against her conviction.

"RSF remains concerned by her situation and emphasises that partial freedom is not freedom at all," the media watchdog wrote in a statement on Wednesday.

"Diplomatic intervention remains crucial to ensure her full and unconditional release without delay," RSF said.

Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan has been released from prison after serving four years for her coverage of Beijing's Covid-19 response, according to a video released by media watchdog Reporters Without Borders.

Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan has been released from prison after serving four years for her coverage of Beijing's Covid-19 response, according to a video released by media watchdog Reporters Without Borders. However, rights groups said Zhang was still under surveillance and that her freedom was extremely limited. Zhang, a former lawyer, travelled to the central city of Wuhan in February 2020 to report on the chaos at the pandemic's epicentre, questioning the authorities' handling of the outbreak in her smartphone videos. She was detained in May 2020 and sentenced seven months later to four years in jail for "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" -- a charge routinely used to suppress dissent. Zhang was due to be released on May 13 but a lack of information about her whereabouts had sparked concern among rights groups and activists that she could still be detained. A short video featuring a pyjama-clad Zhang shared by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on Wednesday appeared to show she had been released as scheduled. "Police released me from prison at five in the morning on May 13 and sent me to my older brother's home in Shanghai," Zhang said in the video, in a soft, halting voice. "Thank you everyone for your help and concern, I wish you all the best... there is not much more that I can say," Zhang said. It was unclear who filmed the video, with RSF saying it was released "via an intermediary". While Zhang appears to have been released, "her contact with the outside world and daily life are all under surveillance", Jane Wang, a UK-based activist involved in the campaign to release and locate Zhang, wrote on social media platform X. "She only has limited freedom," Wang said. Activists as well as the United Nations' rights office have expressed concern about 40-year-old Zhang's health after she conducted several hunger strikes in prison to protest against her conviction. "RSF remains concerned by her situation and emphasises that partial freedom is not freedom at all," the media watchdog wrote in a statement on Wednesday. "Diplomatic intervention remains crucial to ensure her full and unconditional release without delay," RSF said.

China releases journalist jailed for Covid-19 coverage

In the case of the alleged plot to kill Khalistani&nbsp;terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the top court in Czech Republic has rejected a petition by Indian national Nikhil Gupta against his extradition to the US.&nbsp;Now the nation's justice minister will have to take a call on the actual extradition.

Gupta, who at present is locked up in a Prague prison, is indicted by the US for plotting to kill Pannun.&nbsp;

"The Constitutional Court did not find any circumstance for which declaring extradition admissible would lead to a violation of any of the constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms," the court said on Wednesday (May 22).

It ruled that lower courts had adequately taken into account the factors that may prevent extradition.&nbsp;

It also repudiated arguments claiming the case was political.

"For the complainant, this brings the proceedings before the Czech courts to an end."

The top Czech court, upholding the Municipal Court and The High Court's order, stated that it has approved the decision of the general courts concerning the admissibility of extradition.

The court also kept the local court's ruling to reject Gupta’s appeal requesting release from pre-trial detention.

It declined to accept compensation for detention in the form of a monetary guarantee or ban on travel abroad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/controversial-flag-flown-over-supreme-court-justice-alitos-home-report-724424">Controversial flag flown over US Supreme Court Justice Alito's home: Report</a>

Gupta had claimed that the courts did not review all the important events that could turn into an obstruction to extradition, as per the statement.

This comes after the US reiterated its stance on seeking accountability from the Indian government about the ongoing investigation into the murder plot of Pannun.&nbsp;

Addressing a briefing at the White House on April 30, State Department's Principal Deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that there is an ongoing dialogue and that the US expects accountability from the Indian authorities.

"So we continue to expect accountability from the Government of India based on the results of the Indian inquiry committee's work, and we are regularly working with them and inquiring for additional updates," Patel said on being asked about a report by The Washington Post which named an Indian Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) official as being involved in the alleged plot.

"We'll also continue to raise our concerns directly with the Indian government at senior levels...," Patel added.&nbsp;

The claims made in the Washington Post report were dismissed by New Delhi. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said last week that the report was "speculative and irresponsible".

"The report in question makes unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter. There is an ongoing investigation of the High-Level Committee set up by the Government of India to look into the security concerns shared by the US government on networks of organised criminals, terrorists and others," Jaiswal said.

"Speculative and irresponsible comments on it are not helpful," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the case of the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the top court in Czech Republic has rejected a petition by Indian national Nikhil Gupta against his extradition to the US.

In the case of the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the top court in Czech Republic has rejected a petition by Indian national Nikhil Gupta against his extradition to the US. Now the nation's justice minister will have to take a call on the actual extradition. Gupta, who at present is locked up in a Prague prison, is indicted by the US for plotting to kill Pannun. "The Constitutional Court did not find any circumstance for which declaring extradition admissible would lead to a violation of any of the constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms," the court said on Wednesday (May 22). It ruled that lower courts had adequately taken into account the factors that may prevent extradition. It also repudiated arguments claiming the case was political. "For the complainant, this brings the proceedings before the Czech courts to an end." The top Czech court, upholding the Municipal Court and The High Court's order, stated that it has approved the decision of the general courts concerning the admissibility of extradition. The court also kept the local court's ruling to reject Gupta’s appeal requesting release from pre-trial detention. It declined to accept compensation for detention in the form of a monetary guarantee or ban on travel abroad. Also read: Controversial flag flown over US Supreme Court Justice Alito's home: Report Gupta had claimed that the courts did not review all the important events that could turn into an obstruction to extradition, as per the statement. This comes after the US reiterated its stance on seeking accountability from the Indian government about the ongoing investigation into the murder plot of Pannun. Addressing a briefing at the White House on April 30, State Department's Principal Deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that there is an ongoing dialogue and that the US expects accountability from the Indian authorities. "So we continue to expect accountability from the Government of India based on the results of the Indian inquiry committee's work, and we are regularly working with them and inquiring for additional updates," Patel said on being asked about a report by The Washington Post which named an Indian Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) official as being involved in the alleged plot. "We'll also continue to raise our concerns directly with the Indian government at senior levels...," Patel added. The claims made in the Washington Post report were dismissed by New Delhi. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said last week that the report was "speculative and irresponsible". "The report in question makes unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter. There is an ongoing investigation of the High-Level Committee set up by the Government of India to look into the security concerns shared by the US government on networks of organised criminals, terrorists and others," Jaiswal said. "Speculative and irresponsible comments on it are not helpful," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pannun murder plot: Czech court allows Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta's US extradition

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test.

Maliwal, who levelled the assault allegations against Bibhav Kumar, the assistant of AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal,&nbsp;lashed out at the party for victim shaming, calling it "a huge blow to the entire women's movement."

"If I am wrong then I am ready to undergo a polygraph test and I want the police to do it," she said in an interview to ANI news agency.

"Everything will be clear then. I want the police to conduct a polygraph test on me because how can I live with this realisation that a girl who has always given courage to girls to fight, today you have portrayed me as one that have made false allegations before the whole world," said the the former Delhi Commission for Women chief.

She also questioned the credibility of the video clips released by AAP that purportedly showed Maliwal engaging in an argument with the security personnel at the CM's residence on the day the alleged incident took place.

"Now they are raising questions that look at the CCTV footage, look how she is walking, she is walking fine. In the edited video also, she is sitting at ease. So I want to know, if you get beaten up, what will be your first reaction? You're very agitated. Obviously, there is pain but there is agitation which takes you over there is very high adrenaline also running through your body," she said. "According to the Delhi Police, it is being said that the CCTV footage has not reached them till now. So is this CCTV footage fully correct? Or is it doctored?"

"And on top of it, I am still walking, limping after four days. So anyone who has been hurt will understand this, when the wound is fresh you can freely walk or run, and when the wound gets settled then the pain kicks in. So now whatever they are saying that first she was walking really fast and now look she is limping and all. I feel that there could be no worse victim shaming than this. The sad part is that a lady minister of Delhi has said that look, her clothes are torn, look, there are no wounds on her head. That was all left to do maybe, should have got it also done," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swati-maliwal-assault-case-footage-of-incident-might-have-been-tampered-say-cops-723003">Also read: Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops</a>

<h2>AAP's reaction on Swati Maliwal's allegations</h2>

Her remarks come after AAP minister Atishi claimed that Maliwal went to the CM's residence on May 13, the day of the alleged assault, without an appointment.

"Why did she barge in? Why did she land up at the chief minister's residence without an appointment? Arvind Kejriwal was busy that day and did not meet her. If he had met her that day, the allegations levelled against Bibhav Kumar could have been levelled against him," Atishi said.

Maliwal had filed a complaint against&nbsp;Bibhav Kumar on May 14, a day after the alleged incident took place.

Kumar lodged a counter-complaint with the police, accusing Maliwal of gaining 'unauthorised entry' into the CM's Civil Lines residence and 'verbally abusing' him.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test.

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test. Maliwal, who levelled the assault allegations against Bibhav Kumar, the assistant of AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, lashed out at the party for victim shaming, calling it "a huge blow to the entire women's movement." "If I am wrong then I am ready to undergo a polygraph test and I want the police to do it," she said in an interview to ANI news agency. "Everything will be clear then. I want the police to conduct a polygraph test on me because how can I live with this realisation that a girl who has always given courage to girls to fight, today you have portrayed me as one that have made false allegations before the whole world," said the the former Delhi Commission for Women chief. She also questioned the credibility of the video clips released by AAP that purportedly showed Maliwal engaging in an argument with the security personnel at the CM's residence on the day the alleged incident took place. "Now they are raising questions that look at the CCTV footage, look how she is walking, she is walking fine. In the edited video also, she is sitting at ease. So I want to know, if you get beaten up, what will be your first reaction? You're very agitated. Obviously, there is pain but there is agitation which takes you over there is very high adrenaline also running through your body," she said. "According to the Delhi Police, it is being said that the CCTV footage has not reached them till now. So is this CCTV footage fully correct? Or is it doctored?" "And on top of it, I am still walking, limping after four days. So anyone who has been hurt will understand this, when the wound is fresh you can freely walk or run, and when the wound gets settled then the pain kicks in. So now whatever they are saying that first she was walking really fast and now look she is limping and all. I feel that there could be no worse victim shaming than this. The sad part is that a lady minister of Delhi has said that look, her clothes are torn, look, there are no wounds on her head. That was all left to do maybe, should have got it also done," she added. Also read: Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops AAP's reaction on Swati Maliwal's allegations Her remarks come after AAP minister Atishi claimed that Maliwal went to the CM's residence on May 13, the day of the alleged assault, without an appointment. "Why did she barge in? Why did she land up at the chief minister's residence without an appointment? Arvind Kejriwal was busy that day and did not meet her. If he had met her that day, the allegations levelled against Bibhav Kumar could have been levelled against him," Atishi said. Maliwal had filed a complaint against Bibhav Kumar on May 14, a day after the alleged incident took place. Kumar lodged a counter-complaint with the police, accusing Maliwal of gaining 'unauthorised entry' into the CM's Civil Lines residence and 'verbally abusing' him. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal alleges victim shaming by AAP, says 'ready to undergo polygraph test'

Spelling more trouble for the Aam Aadmi Party, the Enforcement Directorate filed an official dossier with the Union Home Ministry (MHA) where it alleged that AAP received over Rs 7 crore as foreign funding, in violation&nbsp;of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

The ED shared the inputs with MHA after it retrieved several emails and documents from the time when a money laundering probe related to drugs was launched against former Punjab AAP MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira along with other political figures.

Notably, the investigation was initiated in 2021 and Khaira was arrested in the case by ED that year. He left AAP and is at present with the Congress party.

The federal probe agency, as per news agency PTI reports, found out that till now AAP has received about Rs 7.08 crore as overseas donations.

The ED also alleged that the party has "mis-declared and manipulated" details like the identities and nationalities of the foreign donors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-liquor-policy-case-ed-files-chargesheet-against-kejriwal-names-aap-as-accused-722539">Also read: Delhi liquor policy case: ED files chargesheet against Kejriwal, names AAP as accused</a>

<h2>AAP refutes allegations</h2>

AAP on Monday (May 20) rebuffed the allegations calling it "a new conspiracy by the BJP" to tarnish the image of Kejriwal government amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

While addressing a media briefing on Monday senior AAP leader Atishi claimed that BJP failed to frame her party leaders in the liquor scam and the Swati Maliwal sexual harassment case, so it has come up with this new issue.

"These are baseless allegations. It is an old case where it has already been proved that no illegal donation has been taken. As the elections are nearing (in Delhi and Punjab), the BJP has hatched a new conspiracy to frame the Aam Aadmi Party," she alleged.

The development comes against the backdrop of AAP being named as accused in the money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam.

This also comes after Delhi CM and party supremo Arvind Kejriwal's close aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested following grave allegations of assault by the party's Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spelling more trouble for the Aam Aadmi Party, the Enforcement Directorate filed an official dossier with the Union Home Ministry (MHA) where it alleged that AAP received over Rs 7 crore as foreign funding, in violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

Spelling more trouble for the Aam Aadmi Party, the Enforcement Directorate filed an official dossier with the Union Home Ministry (MHA) where it alleged that AAP received over Rs 7 crore as foreign funding, in violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The ED shared the inputs with MHA after it retrieved several emails and documents from the time when a money laundering probe related to drugs was launched against former Punjab AAP MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira along with other political figures. Notably, the investigation was initiated in 2021 and Khaira was arrested in the case by ED that year. He left AAP and is at present with the Congress party. The federal probe agency, as per news agency PTI reports, found out that till now AAP has received about Rs 7.08 crore as overseas donations. The ED also alleged that the party has "mis-declared and manipulated" details like the identities and nationalities of the foreign donors. Also read: Delhi liquor policy case: ED files chargesheet against Kejriwal, names AAP as accused AAP refutes allegations AAP on Monday (May 20) rebuffed the allegations calling it "a new conspiracy by the BJP" to tarnish the image of Kejriwal government amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. While addressing a media briefing on Monday senior AAP leader Atishi claimed that BJP failed to frame her party leaders in the liquor scam and the Swati Maliwal sexual harassment case, so it has come up with this new issue. "These are baseless allegations. It is an old case where it has already been proved that no illegal donation has been taken. As the elections are nearing (in Delhi and Punjab), the BJP has hatched a new conspiracy to frame the Aam Aadmi Party," she alleged. The development comes against the backdrop of AAP being named as accused in the money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam. This also comes after Delhi CM and party supremo Arvind Kejriwal's close aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested following grave allegations of assault by the party's Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal. (With inputs from agencies)

More trouble for AAP as ED says party received Rs 7.08 crore in foreign funding, seeks FCRA probe

A study has revealed that heart failure patients who do yoga have stronger hearts and are more active than the ones who don't.

The researchers said that yoga focused on breathing, meditation, and relaxation was directly connected with symptom improvement in patients with heart failure.&nbsp;

“Patients who practised yoga on top of taking their medications felt better, were able to do more, and had stronger hearts than those who only took drugs for their heart failure,” said study author Dr Ajit Singh of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India.

“The findings suggest that yoga can be a beneficial complementary therapy in patients with heart failure.”

Over 64 million people in the world suffer from heart failure which can impact the quality of life with fatigue, breathlessness and the inability to participate in usual activities as common symptoms.

Previously, several studies have shown short-term benefits of yoga in patients with heart failure, this study reveals its long-term effects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/unraveling-the-mystery-how-does-general-anaesthesia-works-in-the-brain-723629">Unravelling the mystery: How does general anaesthesia work in the brain?</a>

The study involved patients between 30 to 70 years of age with heart failure from the cardiology outpatient department of Kasturba Hospital in Manipal, India. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ones taking part in the study had undergone a cardiac procedure within the past six months to one year. They were following the guidelines as advised by the doctor in terms of medication.

The patients who had developed severe symptoms were excluded.

Out of the 85 participants, 40 were assigned to the group that practised yoga, whereas 45 patients were allocated to the control group.&nbsp;

The age was 49 years and 70, out of which 82 per cent were men.

Throughout the study, all the patients kept taking guideline-recommended heart failure medications.

At baseline, six months, and one year, the researchers examined the heart structure and functioning in both groups.

The researchers found that as compared to the control group, the yoga group exhibited significant progress in all the spheres at six months and one year relative to baseline.

"Patients who did yoga had healthier hearts and were more able to carry out ordinary activities such as walking and climbing stairs than those who only took medications. Patients with heart failure should speak to their doctor before starting yoga and should then receive training from an experienced instructor. Prescribed medications should be continued as before. Yoga may be unsuitable for heart failure patients with severe symptoms, who were excluded from our study," Dr Singh said.

A study has revealed that heart failure patients who do yoga have stronger hearts and are more active than the ones who don't. The researchers said that yoga focused on breathing, meditation, and relaxation was directly connected with symptom improvement in patients with heart failure.

A study has revealed that heart failure patients who do yoga have stronger hearts and are more active than the ones who don't. The researchers said that yoga focused on breathing, meditation, and relaxation was directly connected with symptom improvement in patients with heart failure. “Patients who practised yoga on top of taking their medications felt better, were able to do more, and had stronger hearts than those who only took drugs for their heart failure,” said study author Dr Ajit Singh of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Manipal Academy of Higher Education, India. “The findings suggest that yoga can be a beneficial complementary therapy in patients with heart failure.” Over 64 million people in the world suffer from heart failure which can impact the quality of life with fatigue, breathlessness and the inability to participate in usual activities as common symptoms. Previously, several studies have shown short-term benefits of yoga in patients with heart failure, this study reveals its long-term effects. Also read: Unravelling the mystery: How does general anaesthesia work in the brain? The study involved patients between 30 to 70 years of age with heart failure from the cardiology outpatient department of Kasturba Hospital in Manipal, India. The ones taking part in the study had undergone a cardiac procedure within the past six months to one year. They were following the guidelines as advised by the doctor in terms of medication. The patients who had developed severe symptoms were excluded. Out of the 85 participants, 40 were assigned to the group that practised yoga, whereas 45 patients were allocated to the control group. The age was 49 years and 70, out of which 82 per cent were men. Throughout the study, all the patients kept taking guideline-recommended heart failure medications. At baseline, six months, and one year, the researchers examined the heart structure and functioning in both groups. The researchers found that as compared to the control group, the yoga group exhibited significant progress in all the spheres at six months and one year relative to baseline. "Patients who did yoga had healthier hearts and were more able to carry out ordinary activities such as walking and climbing stairs than those who only took medications. Patients with heart failure should speak to their doctor before starting yoga and should then receive training from an experienced instructor. Prescribed medications should be continued as before. Yoga may be unsuitable for heart failure patients with severe symptoms, who were excluded from our study," Dr Singh said.

Heart failure patients who do yoga have stronger hearts and are more active, says study

A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl.

Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died.

The 37-year-old Roughley, who is the deputy manager of Tiny Toes nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, placed in "mortal danger" as a "punishment", heard the trial.

She was found guilty of Meehan's manslaughter following a four-week-long trial at a Manchester court and will be sentenced on Wednesday (May 22).

As per local media reports, the court heard that Meehan, who was called by her family as Gigi, was found strapped face down to a beanbag, swaddled in a blanket on 9 May 2022, in Tiny Toes' baby room.&nbsp;

Gigi's father, John Meehan, outside of the court said that his daughter's death had destroyed the family and there was not even a day when they did not grieve for her.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TRIBUTE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TRIBUTE</a> | Family of baby Genevieve pay tribute to their little girl. 
 
"It has been just over two years since our beautiful and wonderful daughter’s life was taken from her. Genevieve’s loss has destroyed our family. We grieve for her every day."<a href="https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A">https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A</a> <a href="https://t.co/50OrdYGQOF">pic.twitter.com/50OrdYGQOF</a>
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&nbsp;

“We long desperately to see her smile, to hear her laugh and to feel her warm embrace,” John said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sunaks-inflation-victory-faces-voter-doubts-723448">Sunak's inflation victory faces voter doubts</a>

“To many, Genevieve is just a baby that was seen on CCTV, or discussed in evidence during this trial. But to us, she is our precious and wonderful daughter, and she is not to be defined by the manner of her death," he said.

“She was a person. She loved to laugh, to play with her tambourine, to eat spaghetti bolognese and to spend time with her big sister. She was kind, affectionate … and mischievous,” he further added.

'Will not forgive the callousness of Roughley’s actions,' says John

John then said that his family had trusted Roughley with the responsibility of his daughter's well-being, however, she put her own convenience and selfish interests above Gigi's life.

“Knowing what she had done, she could have taken responsibility and saved our family from enduring the horror of this trial. However, such a basic act of decency was beyond her. Instead, she has lied and lied and lied throughout and has sought to deflect attention to anyone but herself,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl. Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died.

A nursery worker in the United Kingdom is facing charges for claiming the life of a nine-month-old baby girl. Kate Roughley strapped Genevieve Meehan's face down to a beanbag for almost 90 minutes before she suffocated and died. The 37-year-old Roughley, who is the deputy manager of Tiny Toes nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, placed in "mortal danger" as a "punishment", heard the trial. She was found guilty of Meehan's manslaughter following a four-week-long trial at a Manchester court and will be sentenced on Wednesday (May 22). As per local media reports, the court heard that Meehan, who was called by her family as Gigi, was found strapped face down to a beanbag, swaddled in a blanket on 9 May 2022, in Tiny Toes' baby room. Gigi's father, John Meehan, outside of the court said that his daughter's death had destroyed the family and there was not even a day when they did not grieve for her. #TRIBUTE | Family of baby Genevieve pay tribute to their little girl. "It has been just over two years since our beautiful and wonderful daughter’s life was taken from her. Genevieve’s loss has destroyed our family. We grieve for her every day."https://t.co/zEFWZunW3A pic.twitter.com/50OrdYGQOF — Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) May 20, 2024 × “We long desperately to see her smile, to hear her laugh and to feel her warm embrace,” John said. Also read: Sunak's inflation victory faces voter doubts “To many, Genevieve is just a baby that was seen on CCTV, or discussed in evidence during this trial. But to us, she is our precious and wonderful daughter, and she is not to be defined by the manner of her death," he said. “She was a person. She loved to laugh, to play with her tambourine, to eat spaghetti bolognese and to spend time with her big sister. She was kind, affectionate … and mischievous,” he further added. 'Will not forgive the callousness of Roughley’s actions,' says John John then said that his family had trusted Roughley with the responsibility of his daughter's well-being, however, she put her own convenience and selfish interests above Gigi's life. “Knowing what she had done, she could have taken responsibility and saved our family from enduring the horror of this trial. However, such a basic act of decency was beyond her. Instead, she has lied and lied and lied throughout and has sought to deflect attention to anyone but herself,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Nursery worker who strapped nine-month-old girl to beanbag found guilty of murder

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crash that took place on Sunday (May 19).

Taking to his official X account, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well-being of the President and his entourage."

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Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well being of the President and his entourage.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1792242768468758626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A helicopter carrying Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Iranian state television earlier reported that rescuers are trying to reach the area where the incident occurred, but fog and bad weather are hampering the rescue efforts.&nbsp;

The state TV had also reported that the helicopter suffered a "hard landing".&nbsp;

Raisi was returning from the Khoda Afarin region in Iran’s northwestern province of East Azarbaijan after inaugurating a dam at the common border with the Republic of Azerbaijan, reported Tasnim news agency

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, in his first statement since the news broke out, said, "We hope Almighty God will return the respected, esteemed President and his entourage to the arms of the nation."

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We hope Almighty God will return the respected, esteemed President and his entourage to the arms of the nation.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1792247260920566015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>'Waiting with great anxiety for good news,' says Pakistan PM</h2>

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to his official X handle and wrote, “Heard the distressing news from Iran regarding Hon. President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi’s helicopter. Waiting with great anxiety for good news that all is well. Our prayers and best wishes are with Hon.President Raisi and the entire Iranian nation."

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Heard the distressing news from Iran regarding Hon. President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter. Waiting with great anxiety for good news that all is well. Our prayers and best wishes are with Hon.President Raisi and the entire Iranian nation.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1792228265379377470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari shared a post on social media which said, "Deeply concerned to hear news about the helicopter incident carrying the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdullahian &amp; others. My heartfelt prayers &amp; good wishes for the well-being &amp; safety of President Raisi so that he may continue to serve &nbsp;the Iranian nation."

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Deeply concerned to hear news about the helicopter incident carrying the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdullahian &amp; others. My heartfelt prayers &amp; good wishes for the well-being &amp; safety of President Raisi so that he may continue to serve the Iranian nation.
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresOfPakistan/status/1792228177106133047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/helicopter-accompanying-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-involved-in-incident-723114">Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes, fog hampers rescue efforts</a>

<h2>'Profoundly troubled by news,' says President of Azerbaijan</h2>

The President of Azerbaijan in a posting on X said, “Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and the accompanying delegation. As a neighbour, friend, and brotherly country, the Republic of Azerbaijan stands ready to offer any assistance needed.”

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Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and…
— Ilham Aliyev (@presidentaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/presidentaz/status/1792228739494850637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Iraq offers help in search efforts</h2>

Iraq offered help to its neighbouring country Iran in the search for Raisi's helicopter.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the interior ministry, the Iraqi Red Crescent and other relevant authorities to offer the Islamic Republic of Iran the available resources to aid in the search for the Iranian president's aircraft," government spokesman Bassem al-Awadi said in a statement.

<h2>Turkey offers Iran 'all necessary support'</h2>

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reacting to the incident said that he was "profoundly saddened" by the news of Raisi's helicopter "accident". He further affirmed that his country will provide all the "necessary support" in rescue efforts.

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İran Cumhurbaşkanı, kardeşim Sayın İbrahim Reisi ve heyetinin bir helikopter kazası geçirmiş olması bizleri derinden üzmüştür.…
— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan/status/1792252450927251931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"We are following the incident closely, are in contact and in coordination with the Iranian authorities and we are ready to provide all necessary support," Erdogan posted on X.

<h2>Saudi expresses readiness to provide any assistance needed&nbsp;</h2>

"We affirm that the Kingdom stands by the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran in these difficult circumstances and its readiness to provide any assistance that the Iranian agencies need," the foreign ministry of the Gulf kingdom said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crash that took place on Sunday (May 19). Taking to his official X account, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's helicopter crash that took place on Sunday (May 19). Taking to his official X account, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well-being of the President and his entourage." Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well being of the President and his entourage. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 19, 2024 × A helicopter carrying Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters. Iranian state television earlier reported that rescuers are trying to reach the area where the incident occurred, but fog and bad weather are hampering the rescue efforts. The state TV had also reported that the helicopter suffered a "hard landing". Raisi was returning from the Khoda Afarin region in Iran’s northwestern province of East Azarbaijan after inaugurating a dam at the common border with the Republic of Azerbaijan, reported Tasnim news agency Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, in his first statement since the news broke out, said, "We hope Almighty God will return the respected, esteemed President and his entourage to the arms of the nation." We hope Almighty God will return the respected, esteemed President and his entourage to the arms of the nation. — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) May 19, 2024 × 'Waiting with great anxiety for good news,' says Pakistan PM Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to his official X handle and wrote, “Heard the distressing news from Iran regarding Hon. President Seyed Ibrahim Raisi’s helicopter. Waiting with great anxiety for good news that all is well. Our prayers and best wishes are with Hon.President Raisi and the entire Iranian nation." Heard the distressing news from Iran regarding Hon. President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter. Waiting with great anxiety for good news that all is well. Our prayers and best wishes are with Hon.President Raisi and the entire Iranian nation. — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 19, 2024 × Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari shared a post on social media which said, "Deeply concerned to hear news about the helicopter incident carrying the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdullahian & others. My heartfelt prayers & good wishes for the well-being & safety of President Raisi so that he may continue to serve the Iranian nation." Deeply concerned to hear news about the helicopter incident carrying the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdullahian & others. My heartfelt prayers & good wishes for the well-being & safety of President Raisi so that he may continue to serve the Iranian nation. — The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) May 19, 2024 × Also read: Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes, fog hampers rescue efforts 'Profoundly troubled by news,' says President of Azerbaijan The President of Azerbaijan in a posting on X said, “Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and the accompanying delegation. As a neighbour, friend, and brotherly country, the Republic of Azerbaijan stands ready to offer any assistance needed.” Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and… — Ilham Aliyev (@presidentaz) May 19, 2024 × Iraq offers help in search efforts Iraq offered help to its neighbouring country Iran in the search for Raisi's helicopter. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the interior ministry, the Iraqi Red Crescent and other relevant authorities to offer the Islamic Republic of Iran the available resources to aid in the search for the Iranian president's aircraft," government spokesman Bassem al-Awadi said in a statement. Turkey offers Iran 'all necessary support' Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reacting to the incident said that he was "profoundly saddened" by the news of Raisi's helicopter "accident". He further affirmed that his country will provide all the "necessary support" in rescue efforts. İran Cumhurbaşkanı, kardeşim Sayın İbrahim Reisi ve heyetinin bir helikopter kazası geçirmiş olması bizleri derinden üzmüştür.… — Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) May 19, 2024 × "We are following the incident closely, are in contact and in coordination with the Iranian authorities and we are ready to provide all necessary support," Erdogan posted on X. Saudi expresses readiness to provide any assistance needed "We affirm that the Kingdom stands by the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran in these difficult circumstances and its readiness to provide any assistance that the Iranian agencies need," the foreign ministry of the Gulf kingdom said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies

PM Modi, world leaders express deep concern over Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crash

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Navya Beri

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