Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'.

He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time.

"TMC came to power by saying that it would protect Maa, Maati, and Manush. Today, TMC is devouring Maa, Maati, and Manush. The women of Bengal have lost faith in TMC. The sin that has happened in Sandeshkhali has forced the sisters of Bengal to think. The TMC people do not even consider the sisters of SC/ST families as human beings. To save their Shahjahan, the TMC people are blaming the sisters of Sandeshkhali and questioning their character. The kind of language they are using for them, every daughter of Bengal will destroy TMC with her vote," PM Modi said while addressing a public meeting in Purulia.

"TMC gives the slogan 'Maa, Maati, Maanush' yet does nothing to protect them. The incident of Sandeshkhali has shaken the women of Bengal. TMC has dehumanised the women of SC and ST communities to protect Shahjahan Sheikh. Leaders of TMC are pointing fingers at the women who suffered atrocities," he added.

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एससी/एसटी परिवार की बहनों को तो टीएमसी के लोग इंसान ही नहीं समझते। अपने शाहजहां को बचाने के लिए टीएमसी के लोग संदेशखाली की बहनों को ही दोषी ठहरा रहे हैं, उनके चरित्र पर सवाल उठा रहे हैं। 
 
जैसी भाषा ये उनके लिए बोल रहे हैं, इसका जवाब बंगाल की हर बेटी अपने वोट से टीएमसी को तबाह कर…
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&nbsp;

Sandeshkhali, a village in North 24 Parganas district, grabbed headlines earlier this year when its residents, mostly women, took to the streets to protest against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, the main accused in the incident.

Women levelled allegations against Shahjahan and his aides for committing atrocities against them and for also grabbing their lands. They accused Shajahan and his aides of "land-grab and sexual assault".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-take-pok-back-amit-shah-says-modi-govt-is-not-afraid-of-pakistans-atom-bombs-722905">‘Will take PoK back,’ Amit Shah says Modi govt is not afraid of Pakistan’s atom bomb</a>

<h2>Mamata 'threatening Ramakrishna Mission to please vote bank'</h2>

PM Modi further slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her remarks targeting the Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevashram Sangha.

He said that the TMC supremo was issuing threats to these socio-religious organisations just to please her vote bank.

"The TMC government, which intimidated and threatened the people of Bengal during elections, has crossed all limits this time. Today, in the country and the world, ISKCON, Ram Krishna Mission, and Bharat Sevashram Sangh are known for service and morality, but today the Chief Minister of Bengal is openly threatening them, warning them from an open platform," PM Modi said while addressing a public meeting in Purulia.

"There are millions of followers associated with these missions all over the world, and their sole aim is to serve the people. The Bengal government has pointed a finger at him and is threatening his name. So much courage! Just to please their vote bank," he added.

PM Modi's remarks came after the West Bengal CM, during a rally in Behrampore said, "There is a maharaj in Behrampore; I have been hearing about him for a long time. Kartik Maharaj. He says he will not allow any TMC agent in the poll booth. I do not consider him a saint because he is directly involved in politics. I used to respect Bharat Sevashram Sangha a lot. It has been on my list of respected organisations for a long time."

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'. He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time. "TMC came to power by saying that it would protect Maa, Maati, and Manush. Today, TMC is devouring Maa, Maati, and Manush. The women of Bengal have lost faith in TMC. The sin that has happened in Sandeshkhali has forced the sisters of Bengal to think. The TMC people do not even consider the sisters of SC/ST families as human beings. To save their Shahjahan, the TMC people are blaming the sisters of Sandeshkhali and questioning their character. The kind of language they are using for them, every daughter of Bengal will destroy TMC with her vote," PM Modi said while addressing a public meeting in Purulia. "TMC gives the slogan 'Maa, Maati, Maanush' yet does nothing to protect them. The incident of Sandeshkhali has shaken the women of Bengal. TMC has dehumanised the women of SC and ST communities to protect Shahjahan Sheikh. Leaders of TMC are pointing fingers at the women who suffered atrocities," he added. एससी/एसटी परिवार की बहनों को तो टीएमसी के लोग इंसान ही नहीं समझते। अपने शाहजहां को बचाने के लिए टीएमसी के लोग संदेशखाली की बहनों को ही दोषी ठहरा रहे हैं, उनके चरित्र पर सवाल उठा रहे हैं। जैसी भाषा ये उनके लिए बोल रहे हैं, इसका जवाब बंगाल की हर बेटी अपने वोट से टीएमसी को तबाह कर… — BJP (@BJP4India) May 19, 2024 × Sandeshkhali, a village in North 24 Parganas district, grabbed headlines earlier this year when its residents, mostly women, took to the streets to protest against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, the main accused in the incident. Women levelled allegations against Shahjahan and his aides for committing atrocities against them and for also grabbing their lands. They accused Shajahan and his aides of "land-grab and sexual assault". Also read: ‘Will take PoK back,’ Amit Shah says Modi govt is not afraid of Pakistan’s atom bomb Mamata 'threatening Ramakrishna Mission to please vote bank' PM Modi further slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her remarks targeting the Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevashram Sangha. He said that the TMC supremo was issuing threats to these socio-religious organisations just to please her vote bank. "The TMC government, which intimidated and threatened the people of Bengal during elections, has crossed all limits this time. Today, in the country and the world, ISKCON, Ram Krishna Mission, and Bharat Sevashram Sangh are known for service and morality, but today the Chief Minister of Bengal is openly threatening them, warning them from an open platform," PM Modi said while addressing a public meeting in Purulia. "There are millions of followers associated with these missions all over the world, and their sole aim is to serve the people. The Bengal government has pointed a finger at him and is threatening his name. So much courage! Just to please their vote bank," he added. PM Modi's remarks came after the West Bengal CM, during a rally in Behrampore said, "There is a maharaj in Behrampore; I have been hearing about him for a long time. Kartik Maharaj. He says he will not allow any TMC agent in the poll booth. I do not consider him a saint because he is directly involved in politics. I used to respect Bharat Sevashram Sangha a lot. It has been on my list of respected organisations for a long time." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi slams TMC, accuses it of ‘questioning character of Sandeshkhali women’

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report.

The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts.

President Joe Biden had sent his Middle East adviser Brett McGurk and acting US envoy to Iran Abram Paley for the first round of discussions between the two countries in January, as per Axios reports.

The talks involved discussions around Iran's unprecedented assault against Israel on April 13.

According to the reports, McGurk and Paley on Tuesday (May 14) met with the Omani mediators for the indirect talks. However, it is not yet clear as to who represented the Iranian side.

The US expressed concerns over Iran's nuclear program and the potential consequences of acts carried out by Iran and its proxies in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this week, State Department's deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel had said that the Biden administration will communicate with Iran in its own ways whenever necessary.

"The Biden administration continues to assess that Iran is not currently undertaking the key activities that would be necessary to produce a testable nuclear device," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-says-it-informed-neighbours-about-attack-on-israel-72-hours-in-advance-711239">Also read: Iran says it informed neighbours about attack on Israel 72 hours in advance</a>

<h2>Iran issues nuclear bomb threat to Israel amid escalating tensions</h2>

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official said that Tehran would change its nuclear doctrine if Israel continues to threaten its existence amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia stemming from the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The assertion has triggered newfound fears of nuclear warfare in the region.

Iran's public position is that it has no plans to obtain nuclear weapons. But intelligence agencies across the world have long concluded that Tehran intends to obtain a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;

Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a sharp threat to Israel earlier this week by indicating that Tehran might change its nuclear doctrine sooner than expected.&nbsp;

Kharrazi said to Iran's Student News Network, "We have no decision to build a nuclear bomb but should Iran's existence be threatened, there will be no choice but to change our military doctrine."

"Recently, the military officials also announced that if Israel wants to attack nuclear facilities, it is possible and imaginable to revise Iran’s nuclear doctrine and policies and divert from the previous declaration considerations," he added.

Earlier in 2022, Kharrazi had claimed that Iran was technically capable of making a nuclear bomb but had not yet decided whether to build one.&nbsp;

Supreme Leader Khamenei banned the development of nuclear weapons in a fatwa in the early 2000s.

In his latest comment on the matter, Kharrazi said, "In the case of an attack on our nuclear facilities by the Zionist regime, our deterrence will change."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report. The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts.

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report. The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts. President Joe Biden had sent his Middle East adviser Brett McGurk and acting US envoy to Iran Abram Paley for the first round of discussions between the two countries in January, as per Axios reports. The talks involved discussions around Iran's unprecedented assault against Israel on April 13. According to the reports, McGurk and Paley on Tuesday (May 14) met with the Omani mediators for the indirect talks. However, it is not yet clear as to who represented the Iranian side. The US expressed concerns over Iran's nuclear program and the potential consequences of acts carried out by Iran and its proxies in the region. Earlier this week, State Department's deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel had said that the Biden administration will communicate with Iran in its own ways whenever necessary. "The Biden administration continues to assess that Iran is not currently undertaking the key activities that would be necessary to produce a testable nuclear device," he said. Also read: Iran says it informed neighbours about attack on Israel 72 hours in advance Iran issues nuclear bomb threat to Israel amid escalating tensions Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official said that Tehran would change its nuclear doctrine if Israel continues to threaten its existence amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia stemming from the war in Gaza. The assertion has triggered newfound fears of nuclear warfare in the region. Iran's public position is that it has no plans to obtain nuclear weapons. But intelligence agencies across the world have long concluded that Tehran intends to obtain a nuclear bomb. Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a sharp threat to Israel earlier this week by indicating that Tehran might change its nuclear doctrine sooner than expected. Kharrazi said to Iran's Student News Network, "We have no decision to build a nuclear bomb but should Iran's existence be threatened, there will be no choice but to change our military doctrine." "Recently, the military officials also announced that if Israel wants to attack nuclear facilities, it is possible and imaginable to revise Iran’s nuclear doctrine and policies and divert from the previous declaration considerations," he added. Earlier in 2022, Kharrazi had claimed that Iran was technically capable of making a nuclear bomb but had not yet decided whether to build one. Supreme Leader Khamenei banned the development of nuclear weapons in a fatwa in the early 2000s. In his latest comment on the matter, Kharrazi said, "In the case of an attack on our nuclear facilities by the Zionist regime, our deterrence will change." (With inputs from agencies)

US holds indirect talks with Iran to prevent escalation of regional attacks: Report

In a significant development, a court&nbsp;issued an arrest warrant against Prajwal Revanna on Saturday (May 18), who is the main accused in the Karnataka sex video scandal.&nbsp;

The JDS MP from Hassan has been absconding after allegations of serious sexual harassment were levelled against him.

The move came following an application by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that was formed to investigate the matter, as per local media reports.

Revanna did not appear before the team despite being sent a notice.

Earlier in the day, Janata Dal (Secular) party supremo Deve Gowda broke his silence over the charges levelled against Revanna and stated that he has no objection if action is taken against his grandson in case he is found guilty.

He further said that cases against his son and JD(S) MLA H D Revanna were fabricated. HD Revanna is currently facing charges of sexual harassment and kidnap of a woman.

"... I don't want to comment on things that are going on in the court regarding Revanna. Prajwal Revanna has gone abroad, regarding that Kumaraswamy (Gowda's other son and state JD(S) chief) has on behalf of our family said it is the duty of the government to take action in accordance with the law of the land," Gowda said.

"There are several people connected to this (sexual abuse cases), I don't want to take anyone's names. Kumaraswamy has said that for those who are involved in this matter, action should be taken against all of them, and the affected women should get justice and compensation."

"There is no objection from us for taking action against Prajwal. But people have come to know (facts) about the allegations made against Revanna, and how the case has been created. In one case he has got the bail, in another case, there is a judgment the day after tomorrow... I don't want to comment on it," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/jds-mla-hd-revanna-granted-another-interim-bail-in-sexual-harassment-case-until-friday-722323">Also read: India: JD(S) MLA HD Revanna granted another interim bail in sexual harassment case until Friday</a>

<h2>Blue Corner notice issued against Prajwal Revanna</h2>

Earlier, Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara said that a Blue Corner notice was issued against Prajwal Revanna.

A blue notice permits Interpol to gather details regarding an individual's identity, whereabouts, or actions linked to a criminal inquiry.

Parameshwara also said that the state government is requesting Interpol's help in repatriating Revanna who reportedly is in Germany. He went there on a diplomatic passport.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a significant development, a court issued an arrest warrant against Prajwal Revanna on Saturday (May 18), who is the main accused in the Karnataka sex video scandal.

In a significant development, a court issued an arrest warrant against Prajwal Revanna on Saturday (May 18), who is the main accused in the Karnataka sex video scandal. The JDS MP from Hassan has been absconding after allegations of serious sexual harassment were levelled against him. The move came following an application by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that was formed to investigate the matter, as per local media reports. Revanna did not appear before the team despite being sent a notice. Earlier in the day, Janata Dal (Secular) party supremo Deve Gowda broke his silence over the charges levelled against Revanna and stated that he has no objection if action is taken against his grandson in case he is found guilty. He further said that cases against his son and JD(S) MLA H D Revanna were fabricated. HD Revanna is currently facing charges of sexual harassment and kidnap of a woman. "... I don't want to comment on things that are going on in the court regarding Revanna. Prajwal Revanna has gone abroad, regarding that Kumaraswamy (Gowda's other son and state JD(S) chief) has on behalf of our family said it is the duty of the government to take action in accordance with the law of the land," Gowda said. "There are several people connected to this (sexual abuse cases), I don't want to take anyone's names. Kumaraswamy has said that for those who are involved in this matter, action should be taken against all of them, and the affected women should get justice and compensation." "There is no objection from us for taking action against Prajwal. But people have come to know (facts) about the allegations made against Revanna, and how the case has been created. In one case he has got the bail, in another case, there is a judgment the day after tomorrow... I don't want to comment on it," he added. Also read: India: JD(S) MLA HD Revanna granted another interim bail in sexual harassment case until Friday Blue Corner notice issued against Prajwal Revanna Earlier, Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara said that a Blue Corner notice was issued against Prajwal Revanna. A blue notice permits Interpol to gather details regarding an individual's identity, whereabouts, or actions linked to a criminal inquiry. Parameshwara also said that the state government is requesting Interpol's help in repatriating Revanna who reportedly is in Germany. He went there on a diplomatic passport. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka sex scandal: Arrest warrant issued against JDS MP Prajwal Revanna

India's Ministry of External Affairs,&nbsp;reacting to the fourth arrest made by Canadian authorities in Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, said that New Delhi has seen the reports of the person being arrested, but Ottawa has not formally conveyed of it.

"We have seen reports of the fourth person being arrested. We have not been formally conveyed of it. So far, we have not received any consular access request as well," said MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday (May 17).

The Canadian police said last week that they had arrested a fourth suspect over his alleged involvement in India-designated terrorist Nijjar's killing.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

As per the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) in British Columbia, the main accused identified as Amandeep Singh aged 22 was already in the custody of Peel Regional Police in Ontario over unrelated firearms charges.

"IHIT pursued the evidence and gained sufficient information for the BC Prosecution Service to charge Amandeep Singh with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder," the police statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-india-designated-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-in-canada-surfaces-698330">Also read: Video of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing in Canada surfaces</a>

<h2>‘Never received relevant info from Canada,’ says Jaishankar&nbsp;</h2>

Foreign Minister S Jaishankar earlier said the Canadian authorities have not shared any data with India that is relevant enough to be investigated by New Delhi following the reports of the fourth arrest in the case.

"I also read that another arrest has been made...We have long maintained that if any event or violence in Canada has any evidence or information that is relevant to be investigated in India, we are open to investigating it. To date, we have never received anything specific or worthy of being investigated by our investigative agencies...," Jaishankar said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-summons-canada-envoy-over-khalistan-slogans-at-event-attended-by-trudeau-716350">Also read: India summons Canada envoy over Khalistan slogans at event attended by PM Justin Trudeau</a>

The diplomatic ties between India and Canada witnessed an all-time low after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of having a role in the killing of Nijjar, who was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023.

However, India has strongly rejected the allegations, calling them "baseless" and "absurd".

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the fourth arrest made by Canadian authorities in Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, said that New Delhi has seen the reports of the person being arrested, but Ottawa has not formally conveyed of it.

India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the fourth arrest made by Canadian authorities in Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing, said that New Delhi has seen the reports of the person being arrested, but Ottawa has not formally conveyed of it. "We have seen reports of the fourth person being arrested. We have not been formally conveyed of it. So far, we have not received any consular access request as well," said MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday (May 17). The Canadian police said last week that they had arrested a fourth suspect over his alleged involvement in India-designated terrorist Nijjar's killing. #WATCH | Delhi: On 4th Indian arrested by Canada in Nijjar murder, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen reports of the 4th person being arrested. We have not been formally conveyed of it so far... We have not received any consular access request as well..." pic.twitter.com/xIVjUJypBM — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2024 × As per the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) in British Columbia, the main accused identified as Amandeep Singh aged 22 was already in the custody of Peel Regional Police in Ontario over unrelated firearms charges. "IHIT pursued the evidence and gained sufficient information for the BC Prosecution Service to charge Amandeep Singh with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder," the police statement said. Also read: Video of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing in Canada surfaces ‘Never received relevant info from Canada,’ says Jaishankar Foreign Minister S Jaishankar earlier said the Canadian authorities have not shared any data with India that is relevant enough to be investigated by New Delhi following the reports of the fourth arrest in the case. "I also read that another arrest has been made...We have long maintained that if any event or violence in Canada has any evidence or information that is relevant to be investigated in India, we are open to investigating it. To date, we have never received anything specific or worthy of being investigated by our investigative agencies...," Jaishankar said. Also read: India summons Canada envoy over Khalistan slogans at event attended by PM Justin Trudeau The diplomatic ties between India and Canada witnessed an all-time low after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of having a role in the killing of Nijjar, who was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023. However, India has strongly rejected the allegations, calling them "baseless" and "absurd". (With inputs from agencies)

'Did not receive consular access request,' says India over arrests in Canada over Nijjar killing case

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks.

The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations.

"Today I vetoed a Russian law. This law is Russian in its essence and spirit," she said in a televised statement, speaking about the bill that critics describe as resembling Russian legislation used to silence dissent.

"It contradicts our constitution and all European standards, therefore it represents an obstacle to our European path," she added.

Zourabichvili had previously stated that she would veto the bill after saying that she considered the law “unacceptable.”

However, her decision can be rescinded by a second vote in parliament, which Georgia's ruling party and its allies majorly control.

As per TASS reports, the president said that her veto was legally sound and that it would be handed over to parliament on Saturday (May 18).

"This law must be repealed," she said.

Mass protests erupted across the Georgian capital Tbilisi over the past month after the first reading of the draft law was passed in parliament.

The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338">Also read: Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about?</a>

<h2>Mass protests, student walkout</h2>

Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday (May 13), hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-adopts-controversial-foreign-agents-law-amid-brawls-and-protests-721374">Also read: Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests</a>

Last week, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering on Monday after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes.&nbsp;

The government, however, has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty.

(With inputs from agencies)

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations.

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations. "Today I vetoed a Russian law. This law is Russian in its essence and spirit," she said in a televised statement, speaking about the bill that critics describe as resembling Russian legislation used to silence dissent. "It contradicts our constitution and all European standards, therefore it represents an obstacle to our European path," she added. Zourabichvili had previously stated that she would veto the bill after saying that she considered the law “unacceptable.” However, her decision can be rescinded by a second vote in parliament, which Georgia's ruling party and its allies majorly control. As per TASS reports, the president said that her veto was legally sound and that it would be handed over to parliament on Saturday (May 18). "This law must be repealed," she said. Mass protests erupted across the Georgian capital Tbilisi over the past month after the first reading of the draft law was passed in parliament. The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Also read: Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about? Mass protests, student walkout Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation. Earlier on Monday (May 13), hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill. Also read: Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests Last week, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering on Monday after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes. The government, however, has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia’s ‘foreign agents’ bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests

The chief of Canada's Security Intelligence Service cautioned the people against the use of TikTok stating that the data the application obtains from its users is "available to the government of China."&nbsp;

"My answer as director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is that there is a very clear strategy on the part of the government of China to be able to acquire personal information from anyone around the world," CBC News quoted CSIS Director David Vigneault as saying.

TikTok spokesperson in response said, that "these assertions are unsupported by evidence, and the fact is that TikTok has never shared Canadian user data with the Chinese government, nor would we if asked."

Earlier, in September last year, Canada ordered a national security review of a proposal that was put forward by TikTok to expand the short-form video hosting application's business in the country.

Vigneault said that he would also take part in the proposal's review and subsequently offer advice, reported CBC.

"We will continue to engage with Canadian officials and would welcome the opportunity to meet with CSIS to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians," the spokesperson added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-to-adopt-new-tech-aimed-at-labelling-ai-generated-images-719820">Also read: TikTok to adopt new tech aimed at labelling AI-generated images</a>

<h2>TikTok, ByteDance challenge potential US ban in court</h2>

This comes after TikTok and its parent firm ByteDance earlier this month filed a legal challenge against the US targeting a bill signed by President Joe Biden that would push the app to either face a ban in the United States or to be sold.

The development came almost two weeks after Biden passed a law giving the popular short-form video hosting service an ultimatum of 270 days to find a non-Chinese buyer or face a ban in the country.

TikTok argues that the bill signed by the US president was unconstitutional.

"For the first time in history, Congress has enacted a law that subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban, and bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than one billion people worldwide," said the suit by TikTok and ByteDance.

The lawsuit by the firm and the short-video sharing platform alleges that the move violates the First Amendment, charging that "Congress has made a law curtailing massive amounts of protected speech."

It further stated that the divestiture demanded for the short video app for it to be functional in the country is "simply not possible".

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief of Canada's Security Intelligence Service cautioned the people against the use of TikTok stating that the data the application obtains from its users is "available to the government of China.

The chief of Canada's Security Intelligence Service cautioned the people against the use of TikTok stating that the data the application obtains from its users is "available to the government of China." "My answer as director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is that there is a very clear strategy on the part of the government of China to be able to acquire personal information from anyone around the world," CBC News quoted CSIS Director David Vigneault as saying. TikTok spokesperson in response said, that "these assertions are unsupported by evidence, and the fact is that TikTok has never shared Canadian user data with the Chinese government, nor would we if asked." Earlier, in September last year, Canada ordered a national security review of a proposal that was put forward by TikTok to expand the short-form video hosting application's business in the country. Vigneault said that he would also take part in the proposal's review and subsequently offer advice, reported CBC. "We will continue to engage with Canadian officials and would welcome the opportunity to meet with CSIS to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians," the spokesperson added. Also read: TikTok to adopt new tech aimed at labelling AI-generated images TikTok, ByteDance challenge potential US ban in court This comes after TikTok and its parent firm ByteDance earlier this month filed a legal challenge against the US targeting a bill signed by President Joe Biden that would push the app to either face a ban in the United States or to be sold. The development came almost two weeks after Biden passed a law giving the popular short-form video hosting service an ultimatum of 270 days to find a non-Chinese buyer or face a ban in the country. TikTok argues that the bill signed by the US president was unconstitutional. "For the first time in history, Congress has enacted a law that subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban, and bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than one billion people worldwide," said the suit by TikTok and ByteDance. The lawsuit by the firm and the short-video sharing platform alleges that the move violates the First Amendment, charging that "Congress has made a law curtailing massive amounts of protected speech." It further stated that the divestiture demanded for the short video app for it to be functional in the country is "simply not possible". (With inputs from agencies)

China may use data from TikTok to spy on people, warns Canada’s security intelligence chief

The political drama amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls took&nbsp;a new turn with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's open challenge to the Union government to "put in jail whosoever" it wants to.

The AAP supremo said that "he would go to the BJP headquarters tomorrow along with his party's top leaders, MLAs and MPs at 12 noon and PM Modi can arrest anyone he wants to".

"You can see how they (BJP) are after AAP. One after another, they are putting AAP leaders behind bars. They put me, Manish Sisodia, Satyendra Jain, and Sanjay Singh behind bars. Today they put my PA in jail. Now they are saying they will put Raghav Chadha, Atishi, and Saurabh Bharadwaj in jail. Maybe our fault is that we built schools and mohalla clinics, we provided free electricity, but they are unable to do it," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

"I would like to tell the Prime Minister - you are playing this 'jail ka khel'. Tomorrow, I am coming to the BJP headquarters with all my top leaders, MLAs, and MPs at 12 noon. You can put in jail whoever you want," he added.

He then said that his party could not be crushed as Aam Aadmi Party was not just a political party but an "ideology".

"You might be thinking that by putting AAP leaders in jail, you will be able to crush AAP but AAP is an ideology that has touched the hearts of people," he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says, "You can see how they are after AAP...I would like to tell the Prime Minister - you are playing this 'jail ka khel'...Tomorrow, I am coming to the BJP HQ with all my top leaders, MLAs, MPs at 12 noon. You can put in jail whoever you… <a href="https://t.co/7Hpau6REeu">pic.twitter.com/7Hpau6REeu</a>
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&nbsp;

Kejriwal's remarks came after his aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested following accusations of assault on AAP MP Swati Maliwal.

Maliwal, the former chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), had alleged that she was “slapped, hit on the stomach, and kicked” by Kumar at the Delhi CM’s residence on May 13.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-swati-maliwal-an-indian-mp-who-was-allegedly-assaulted-at-delhi-cms-residence-722699">Who is Swati Maliwal,&nbsp;Indian MP who was allegedly assaulted at Delhi CM's residence?</a>

The arrest comes a day after Maliwal said that Kumar assaulted her in the drawing room of the Delhi CM’s official residence on the morning of May 13 when Kejriwal was present in the house.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha MP also claims that she had informed the staff about her presence and was asked to wait when Kumar suddenly ran into the room and began verbally abusing her.&nbsp;

“I made noise and said ‘Let me go,’ but he kept beating me continuously and abusing me in Hindi. He threatened, ‘We will see, we will deal with it’. I informed him that I was menstruating and in considerable pain, begging him to leave me alone,” Maliwal said, as per the FIR.

The Delhi CM’s aide was also summoned by the National Commission for Women (NCW), on Friday concerning the allegations levelled against him.&nbsp;

Reacting to Kumar's arrest, the chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW) Rekha Sharma took to her official X handle and in a posting wrote, "Delhi CM's aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested from his house. So, the CM was giving shelter to an alleged criminal."

(With inputs from agencies)

The political drama amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls took a new turn with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's open challenge to the Union government to "put in jail whosoever" it wants to.

The political drama amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls took a new turn with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's open challenge to the Union government to "put in jail whosoever" it wants to. The AAP supremo said that "he would go to the BJP headquarters tomorrow along with his party's top leaders, MLAs and MPs at 12 noon and PM Modi can arrest anyone he wants to". "You can see how they (BJP) are after AAP. One after another, they are putting AAP leaders behind bars. They put me, Manish Sisodia, Satyendra Jain, and Sanjay Singh behind bars. Today they put my PA in jail. Now they are saying they will put Raghav Chadha, Atishi, and Saurabh Bharadwaj in jail. Maybe our fault is that we built schools and mohalla clinics, we provided free electricity, but they are unable to do it," Kejriwal said. "I would like to tell the Prime Minister - you are playing this 'jail ka khel'. Tomorrow, I am coming to the BJP headquarters with all my top leaders, MLAs, and MPs at 12 noon. You can put in jail whoever you want," he added. He then said that his party could not be crushed as Aam Aadmi Party was not just a political party but an "ideology". "You might be thinking that by putting AAP leaders in jail, you will be able to crush AAP but AAP is an ideology that has touched the hearts of people," he said. #WATCH | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says, "You can see how they are after AAP...I would like to tell the Prime Minister - you are playing this 'jail ka khel'...Tomorrow, I am coming to the BJP HQ with all my top leaders, MLAs, MPs at 12 noon. You can put in jail whoever you… pic.twitter.com/7Hpau6REeu — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2024 × Kejriwal's remarks came after his aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested following accusations of assault on AAP MP Swati Maliwal. Maliwal, the former chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), had alleged that she was “slapped, hit on the stomach, and kicked” by Kumar at the Delhi CM’s residence on May 13. Also read: Who is Swati Maliwal, Indian MP who was allegedly assaulted at Delhi CM's residence? The arrest comes a day after Maliwal said that Kumar assaulted her in the drawing room of the Delhi CM’s official residence on the morning of May 13 when Kejriwal was present in the house. The Rajya Sabha MP also claims that she had informed the staff about her presence and was asked to wait when Kumar suddenly ran into the room and began verbally abusing her. “I made noise and said ‘Let me go,’ but he kept beating me continuously and abusing me in Hindi. He threatened, ‘We will see, we will deal with it’. I informed him that I was menstruating and in considerable pain, begging him to leave me alone,” Maliwal said, as per the FIR. The Delhi CM’s aide was also summoned by the National Commission for Women (NCW), on Friday concerning the allegations levelled against him. Reacting to Kumar's arrest, the chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW) Rekha Sharma took to her official X handle and in a posting wrote, "Delhi CM's aide Bibhav Kumar was arrested from his house. So, the CM was giving shelter to an alleged criminal." (With inputs from agencies)

Kejriwal throws arrest challenge to govt: ‘Will come to BJP HQ tomorrow, put in jail whoever you want to’

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

"We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield".&nbsp;

Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

"The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started.

Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies.

Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-military-leaders-in-kharkiv-says-situation-very-difficult-722148">Also read:&nbsp;Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia</a>

<h2>Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week.

"Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult'</h2>

Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control".&nbsp;

His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line.

"The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel.

The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially.

"Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday.&nbsp;

In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers."

"But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes. "We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield". Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. "The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started. Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies. Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage. Also read: Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week. "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said. Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult' Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control". His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line. "The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel. The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially. "Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday. In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers." "But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned. (With inputs from agencies)

Polish PM says will spend over 2.3 billion euros to fortify border with Ukraine

The French government sent more police to the Pacific island of New Caledonia on Thursday and said it would crack down on rioters, hoping to restore order after three nights of upheaval in which four people have been killed.

Rioters angry with an electoral reform have burnt businesses, torched cars, looted shops and set up road barricades, causing a "dire situation" for access to medicine and food in the French-ruled Pacific island, authorities said.

"Everything's burning, people have literally no limits," New Caledonia student Olivia Iloa said.

France has declared a state of emergency on the island, put at least 10 people under house arrest and banned TikTok.

Numbers of police and gendarmes in New Caledonia will rise from 1,700 to 2,700 by Friday evening, with a small number of soldiers assisting.

"The situation in New Caledonia remains very tense, with looting, riots, fires, attacks which are unbearable," French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal told reporters.

France will "show the utmost firmness towards looters and rioters" and toughen sanctions, he said.

Rioting erupted over a new bill, adopted by lawmakers in Paris on Tuesday, that will let French residents who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years vote in provincial elections. Some local leaders fear the move will dilute the indigenous Kanak vote.

Electoral reform is the latest flashpoint in a decades-long tussle over France's role in the mineral-producing southwest Pacific island some 1,500 km (930 miles) east of Australia.

The government in Paris repeated past mistakes by not heeding warnings over the reform, said Dominique Fochi, secretary general of the Caledonian Union, a branch of the pro-independence FLNKS party which has called for calm but wants the reform shelved.

"We spoke in the void, and now things have exploded," Fochi told Reuters.

France annexed New Caledonia in 1853 and gave the colony the status of overseas territory in 1946. New Caledonia is the world's No. 3 nickel miner but its nickel industry is in crisis. Economic disparities also fuelled the riots, said Fochi.

'DESTROYED'

Attal said the French government would step in to help mitigate the economic impact of the crisis. The local chamber of commerce has estimated the cost of damage caused by the riots at 200 million euros ($217 million), broadcaster NC La 1ère said.

"Caledonia will have a hard time recovering from this crisis... Everything, 80%, is destroyed," said Noumea resident Yoan Fleurot, who has witnessed looting.

Armed forces were protecting New Caledonia's two airports and port, said France's High Commissioner Louis Le Franc, adding roads in Noumea were blocked by barricades of burning cars and car carcasses, some rigged with booby traps.

There were also confrontations overnight between members of Field Action Co-ordination Cell (CCAT), which organised the protests, and self-defence groups, he said.

Three young Kanaks have been killed in the riots, and a 22-year-old police official died after being shot in the head as he was talking to protesters, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said. Another gendarme was killed in an accidental shooting while preparing to deploy.

New Caledonia's Pacific neighbours called for a return to dialogue and for the electoral reform to be cancelled.

"These events could have been avoided if the French government had listened," said Vanuatu's prime minister, Charlot Salwai.

The French government says it wants to meet pro- and anti-independence leaders soon in Paris. It has opened the door to suspending the reform bill if there is a new deal soon on the future of the island.

President Emmanuel Macron cancelled a planned video call with political leaders from the island because leaders did not want to talk to each other, Elysee sources said.

France's foreign ministry will brief officials from several countries on the crisis, according to an invitation seen by Reuters.

Hinting at foreign interference, Darmanin told France 2 TV "some independence leaders had made a deal with Azerbaijan," a country with whom France's relationship has deteriorated over Paris' support for Armenia.

He gave no evidence, and Azerbaijan's foreign ministry swiftly denied what it called insulting allegations.

The French government sent more police to the Pacific island of New Caledonia on Thursday and said it would crack down on rioters, hoping to restore order after three nights of upheaval in which four people have been killed.

The French government sent more police to the Pacific island of New Caledonia on Thursday and said it would crack down on rioters, hoping to restore order after three nights of upheaval in which four people have been killed. Rioters angry with an electoral reform have burnt businesses, torched cars, looted shops and set up road barricades, causing a "dire situation" for access to medicine and food in the French-ruled Pacific island, authorities said. "Everything's burning, people have literally no limits," New Caledonia student Olivia Iloa said. France has declared a state of emergency on the island, put at least 10 people under house arrest and banned TikTok. Numbers of police and gendarmes in New Caledonia will rise from 1,700 to 2,700 by Friday evening, with a small number of soldiers assisting. "The situation in New Caledonia remains very tense, with looting, riots, fires, attacks which are unbearable," French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal told reporters. France will "show the utmost firmness towards looters and rioters" and toughen sanctions, he said. Rioting erupted over a new bill, adopted by lawmakers in Paris on Tuesday, that will let French residents who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years vote in provincial elections. Some local leaders fear the move will dilute the indigenous Kanak vote. Electoral reform is the latest flashpoint in a decades-long tussle over France's role in the mineral-producing southwest Pacific island some 1,500 km (930 miles) east of Australia. The government in Paris repeated past mistakes by not heeding warnings over the reform, said Dominique Fochi, secretary general of the Caledonian Union, a branch of the pro-independence FLNKS party which has called for calm but wants the reform shelved. "We spoke in the void, and now things have exploded," Fochi told Reuters. France annexed New Caledonia in 1853 and gave the colony the status of overseas territory in 1946. New Caledonia is the world's No. 3 nickel miner but its nickel industry is in crisis. Economic disparities also fuelled the riots, said Fochi. 'DESTROYED' Attal said the French government would step in to help mitigate the economic impact of the crisis. The local chamber of commerce has estimated the cost of damage caused by the riots at 200 million euros ($217 million), broadcaster NC La 1ère said. "Caledonia will have a hard time recovering from this crisis... Everything, 80%, is destroyed," said Noumea resident Yoan Fleurot, who has witnessed looting. Armed forces were protecting New Caledonia's two airports and port, said France's High Commissioner Louis Le Franc, adding roads in Noumea were blocked by barricades of burning cars and car carcasses, some rigged with booby traps. There were also confrontations overnight between members of Field Action Co-ordination Cell (CCAT), which organised the protests, and self-defence groups, he said. Three young Kanaks have been killed in the riots, and a 22-year-old police official died after being shot in the head as he was talking to protesters, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said. Another gendarme was killed in an accidental shooting while preparing to deploy. New Caledonia's Pacific neighbours called for a return to dialogue and for the electoral reform to be cancelled. "These events could have been avoided if the French government had listened," said Vanuatu's prime minister, Charlot Salwai. The French government says it wants to meet pro- and anti-independence leaders soon in Paris. It has opened the door to suspending the reform bill if there is a new deal soon on the future of the island. President Emmanuel Macron cancelled a planned video call with political leaders from the island because leaders did not want to talk to each other, Elysee sources said. France's foreign ministry will brief officials from several countries on the crisis, according to an invitation seen by Reuters. Hinting at foreign interference, Darmanin told France 2 TV "some independence leaders had made a deal with Azerbaijan," a country with whom France's relationship has deteriorated over Paris' support for Armenia. He gave no evidence, and Azerbaijan's foreign ministry swiftly denied what it called insulting allegations.

France sends more police to New Caledonia in attempt to restore calm

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action.

He also alleged that PM Modi was supporting the "illegal" Mahayuti government in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

"We have not used bulldozers to date... The Election Commission should take action against those who make instigating speeches. The Prime Minister himself is doing it. He is provoking people. After our government comes, everything will be protected as per our Constitution, we will follow the Constitution," Kharge said during a media briefing in Mumbai.

He then claimed that the INDI alliance will win 46 out of the 48 seats in the state of Maharashtra and will defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"INDIA bloc will win 46 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. People are saying this themselves. Our alliance will win maximum seats and defeat BJP...," Kharge claimed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhis-emotional-appeal-to-people-of-raebareli-i-am-handing-over-my-son-to-you-722576">Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you'</a>

<h2>PM Modi hits out at Congress-SP combine</h2>

Kharge's remarks came after PM Modi, during his rally in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki, said that Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) would run bulldozer over Ayodhya's Ram Temple if they get elected in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

"If the Congress, SP and their INDIA partners come to power, our Ram Lalla would have to return to the tent again as they would run a bulldozer over the Ram Mandir. They should take lessons from Yogi-ji (Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath) on where to run bulldozers and where not to," PM Modi said on Friday (May 17).

"The Congress and the Samajwadi Party have become slaves to appeasement politics. And, when Modi uncovers the truth before the people, they accuse me of creating a Hindu-Muslim divide," he further said.

The Indian prime minister then exuded confidence that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was all set to register its third consecutive win and return to power again.

"June 4 (counting day) is not too far away now. All doubts will be cleared and the entire country and the world will know when we score a hat-trick of wins and return for a third term at the Centre."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action.

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action. He also alleged that PM Modi was supporting the "illegal" Mahayuti government in the Indian state of Maharashtra. "We have not used bulldozers to date... The Election Commission should take action against those who make instigating speeches. The Prime Minister himself is doing it. He is provoking people. After our government comes, everything will be protected as per our Constitution, we will follow the Constitution," Kharge said during a media briefing in Mumbai. He then claimed that the INDI alliance will win 46 out of the 48 seats in the state of Maharashtra and will defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "INDIA bloc will win 46 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. People are saying this themselves. Our alliance will win maximum seats and defeat BJP...," Kharge claimed. Also read: Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you' PM Modi hits out at Congress-SP combine Kharge's remarks came after PM Modi, during his rally in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki, said that Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) would run bulldozer over Ayodhya's Ram Temple if they get elected in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. "If the Congress, SP and their INDIA partners come to power, our Ram Lalla would have to return to the tent again as they would run a bulldozer over the Ram Mandir. They should take lessons from Yogi-ji (Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath) on where to run bulldozers and where not to," PM Modi said on Friday (May 17). "The Congress and the Samajwadi Party have become slaves to appeasement politics. And, when Modi uncovers the truth before the people, they accuse me of creating a Hindu-Muslim divide," he further said. The Indian prime minister then exuded confidence that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was all set to register its third consecutive win and return to power again. "June 4 (counting day) is not too far away now. All doubts will be cleared and the entire country and the world will know when we score a hat-trick of wins and return for a third term at the Centre." (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip. They were held captive and "murdered" by Hamas after the terror attack of October 7 last year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said.

IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari on Friday (May 17) identified the hostages as Shani Louk, Amit Bouskila, and Itshak Gelernter.

"Last night, the Israel Defence Forces (army) rescued the bodies of our hostages Shani Louk, Amit Buskila and Itzhak Gelerenter," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised address.

He said that all three of them were killed by the Palestinian militant group at the Nova music festival and their bodies taken into Gaza.

"They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas," he said.&nbsp;

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We are devastated to share that the <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDF</a> recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were kidnapped from the Nova Festival and held by Hamas in Gaza. 
 
Amit Bouskila (28) 
Shani Louk (23) 
Itzhak Gelerenter (53) 
 
There are no words. 
 
May their memory be a blessing. <a href="https://t.co/N8xEvUPBC2">pic.twitter.com/N8xEvUPBC2</a>
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1791495933508649120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Thousands of people had gathered to enjoy the electronic music fest at Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border when Hamas launched its assault against Israel on Oct 7 and held hundreds of them as hostages.

The Palestinian militant group, as per Israeli officials, crossed over the border and claimed the lives of over 360 people at the festival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-south-africas-genocide-case-totally-divorced-from-facts-says-israel-722433">Israel-Hamas war: US delivers first aid to Gaza via temporary&nbsp;pier</a>

<h2>'This terrible loss is heart-breaking,' says Netanyahu</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement and vowed to bring back all the hostages after the announcement.

He also heaped praises on the military operation and his "brave" soldiers.&nbsp;

"Heartbroken for the great loss. My wife Sara and I grieve with the families. The hearts of all of us are firm in the hour of the liver's death. We will return all our hostages, living and space alike. I congratulate our brave forces who, with determined action, returned boys and girls to their border," Netanyahu wrote in a posting on his official X account.

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הלב נשבר על האובדן הגדול. רעייתי שרה ואני דואבים עם המשפחות. לב כולנו איתן בשעת יגונן הכבד. 
 
נחזיר את כל חטופינו, החיים והחללים כאחד. 
 
אני מברך את כוחותינו האמיצים שבפעולה נחושה השיבו בנים ובנות לגבולם.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1791491891331998008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7, which as per Israeli tallies claimed the lives of 1,200 people. The militant group abducted 252 people and held them as hostages, out of which 125 still remain in Gaza.

The Hostages Families Forum released a statement saying that the recovery of the bodies was a "painful and stark reminder that we must swiftly bring back all our brothers and sisters from their cruel captivity".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip.

The Israeli Army said that the troops have recovered the bodies of three hostages, who had been abducted from a music festival, in a tunnel situated in the war-torn Gaza Strip. They were held captive and "murdered" by Hamas after the terror attack of October 7 last year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari on Friday (May 17) identified the hostages as Shani Louk, Amit Bouskila, and Itshak Gelernter. "Last night, the Israel Defence Forces (army) rescued the bodies of our hostages Shani Louk, Amit Buskila and Itzhak Gelerenter," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised address. He said that all three of them were killed by the Palestinian militant group at the Nova music festival and their bodies taken into Gaza. "They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas," he said. We are devastated to share that the @IDF recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were kidnapped from the Nova Festival and held by Hamas in Gaza. Amit Bouskila (28) Shani Louk (23) Itzhak Gelerenter (53) There are no words. May their memory be a blessing. pic.twitter.com/N8xEvUPBC2 — Israel ישראל (@Israel) May 17, 2024 × Thousands of people had gathered to enjoy the electronic music fest at Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border when Hamas launched its assault against Israel on Oct 7 and held hundreds of them as hostages. The Palestinian militant group, as per Israeli officials, crossed over the border and claimed the lives of over 360 people at the festival. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: US delivers first aid to Gaza via temporary pier 'This terrible loss is heart-breaking,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement and vowed to bring back all the hostages after the announcement. He also heaped praises on the military operation and his "brave" soldiers. "Heartbroken for the great loss. My wife Sara and I grieve with the families. The hearts of all of us are firm in the hour of the liver's death. We will return all our hostages, living and space alike. I congratulate our brave forces who, with determined action, returned boys and girls to their border," Netanyahu wrote in a posting on his official X account. הלב נשבר על האובדן הגדול. רעייתי שרה ואני דואבים עם המשפחות. לב כולנו איתן בשעת יגונן הכבד. נחזיר את כל חטופינו, החיים והחללים כאחד. אני מברך את כוחותינו האמיצים שבפעולה נחושה השיבו בנים ובנות לגבולם. — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) May 17, 2024 × Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7, which as per Israeli tallies claimed the lives of 1,200 people. The militant group abducted 252 people and held them as hostages, out of which 125 still remain in Gaza. The Hostages Families Forum released a statement saying that the recovery of the bodies was a "painful and stark reminder that we must swiftly bring back all our brothers and sisters from their cruel captivity". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli military says bodies of three hostages 'murdered' by Hamas recovered in Gaza

The Delhi Police on Thursday (May 16) filed an FIR or first information report following Aam Aadmi Party's Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's allegations that she was allegedly assaulted by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide.

As per the police officials, the Delhi Chief Minister's personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, has been named as an accused in the case.

The National Commission for Women (NCW), earlier in the day, also summoned Kumar to appear on Friday (May 17) over the matter.

"The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of a media post captioned 'DCW chief Swati Maliwal accuses Arvind Kejriwal's personal secretary of assaulting her'. The post reported that Ms Swati Maliwal, RS MP and former DCW chief, has alleged that the Private Secretary of (the) Chief Minister of Delhi had brutally assaulted her at the Chief Minister's residence," read the notice issued by the NCW on Thursday.

"In view of the above, the Commission has scheduled a hearing in this matter on May 17, 2024, at 11 AM. All concerned parties are required to appear before the Commission in person," it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/bibhav-kumar-accused-of-assaulting-swati-maliwal-seen-with-delhi-cm-bjp-reacts-721938">Bibhav Kumar, accused of assaulting Swati Maliwal, seen with Delhi CM; BJP reacts</a>

<h2>Maliwal asks BJP to not politicise incident</h2>

Earlier in the day, Maliwal, in her first reaction to the alleged assault row, stated that she has given her statement to the Delhi police.

She further called on the Bharatiya Janata Party to not indulge in any politics around the incident.

Three days ago, Maliwal had alleged that she was "assaulted" by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's close aide Bibhav Kumar at the Chief Minister's official residence.

"What happened to me was very bad. I have given my statement to the police on the incident that happened to me. I hope appropriate action will be taken. The past few days have been very difficult for me. I thank those who prayed. Those who tried to indulge in character assassination said that I was doing it at the behest of the other party, God bless them too," she said on her official X account, as per an auto-translation of the original post in Hindi.

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मेरे साथ जो हुआ वो बहुत बुरा था। मेरे साथ हुई घटना पर मैंने पुलिस को अपना स्टेटमेंट दिया है। मुझे आशा है कि उचित कार्यवाही होगी। पिछले दिन मेरे लिए बहुत कठिन रहे हैं। जिन लोगों ने प्रार्थना की उनका धन्यवाद करती हूँ। जिन लोगों ने Character Assassination करने की कोशिश की, ये बोला…
— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwatiJaiHind/status/1791121296765395090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

She further said that the incident took place at a crucial time when the Lok Sabha elections were going on in the country but it was important to bring such issues to everyone's notice.

"There is a special request to the BJP people not to do politics on this incident," she said in the same post.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi Police on Thursday (May 16) filed an FIR or first information report following Aam Aadmi Party's Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's allegations that she was allegedly assaulted by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide.

The Delhi Police on Thursday (May 16) filed an FIR or first information report following Aam Aadmi Party's Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's allegations that she was allegedly assaulted by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide. As per the police officials, the Delhi Chief Minister's personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, has been named as an accused in the case. The National Commission for Women (NCW), earlier in the day, also summoned Kumar to appear on Friday (May 17) over the matter. "The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of a media post captioned 'DCW chief Swati Maliwal accuses Arvind Kejriwal's personal secretary of assaulting her'. The post reported that Ms Swati Maliwal, RS MP and former DCW chief, has alleged that the Private Secretary of (the) Chief Minister of Delhi had brutally assaulted her at the Chief Minister's residence," read the notice issued by the NCW on Thursday. "In view of the above, the Commission has scheduled a hearing in this matter on May 17, 2024, at 11 AM. All concerned parties are required to appear before the Commission in person," it added. Also read: Bibhav Kumar, accused of assaulting Swati Maliwal, seen with Delhi CM; BJP reacts Maliwal asks BJP to not politicise incident Earlier in the day, Maliwal, in her first reaction to the alleged assault row, stated that she has given her statement to the Delhi police. She further called on the Bharatiya Janata Party to not indulge in any politics around the incident. Three days ago, Maliwal had alleged that she was "assaulted" by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's close aide Bibhav Kumar at the Chief Minister's official residence. "What happened to me was very bad. I have given my statement to the police on the incident that happened to me. I hope appropriate action will be taken. The past few days have been very difficult for me. I thank those who prayed. Those who tried to indulge in character assassination said that I was doing it at the behest of the other party, God bless them too," she said on her official X account, as per an auto-translation of the original post in Hindi. मेरे साथ जो हुआ वो बहुत बुरा था। मेरे साथ हुई घटना पर मैंने पुलिस को अपना स्टेटमेंट दिया है। मुझे आशा है कि उचित कार्यवाही होगी। पिछले दिन मेरे लिए बहुत कठिन रहे हैं। जिन लोगों ने प्रार्थना की उनका धन्यवाद करती हूँ। जिन लोगों ने Character Assassination करने की कोशिश की, ये बोला… — Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) May 16, 2024 × She further said that the incident took place at a crucial time when the Lok Sabha elections were going on in the country but it was important to bring such issues to everyone's notice. "There is a special request to the BJP people not to do politics on this incident," she said in the same post. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal assault row: FIR filed over AAP MP's complaint, naming Kejriwal aide as accused

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Zee News Rajasthan

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