The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case.

The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged.&nbsp;

He is set to be produced before the ED Special Court.&nbsp;

Shahjahan, who has also been accused of forcefully occupying lands in the Sandeshkhali area, was questioned inside the prison for over four hours after receiving permission from the Basirhat sub-divisional court in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.

He was arrested on February 29 by the West Bengal Police over an attack that was carried out by his supporters on a team of ED officials.

The probe agency team members were attacked by the mob while they were on their way to conduct a raid on Shahjahan's house in Sandeshkhali over an alleged ration scam on January 5.

He was arrested after being on the run on for over 55 days following violent protests led by women, alleging sexual atrocities and land grabs.

Shahjahan was suspended by the Trinamool Congress for six years following his arrest.

The case was transferred by the Calcutta High Court to CBI on March 6.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-only-know-how-to-cook-congress-mla-gets-embroiled-in-controversy-over-sexist-remark-705887">'They only know how to cook': Congress MLA gets embroiled in controversy over sexist remark</a>

<h2>CBI arrests Shahjahan's brother for involvement in Sandeshkhali ED assault case</h2>

Earlier this month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had arrested three accused over involvement in the Sandeshkhali ED assault case, including Shahjahan's brother.

The accused were identified as Mafujar Molla, Sirajul Molla and Sheikh Alomgir.

A total of six people have so far been arrested by the CBI in the case and a probe is underway.

<h2>NCW submits report on Sandeshkhali to President</h2>

Rekha Sharma, who is the National Commission for Women chairperson, met President Droupadi Murmu earlier this month and submitted a report on the Sandeshkhali violence, the India-based news agency PTI reported citing sources. The commission recommended the President's Rule in West Bengal over the Sandeshkhali violence.

A fact-finding report was also prepared by the commission which said that it has gathered disturbing testimonies of women alleging widespread fear and systematic abuse by both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case. The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged.

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case. The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged. He is set to be produced before the ED Special Court. Shahjahan, who has also been accused of forcefully occupying lands in the Sandeshkhali area, was questioned inside the prison for over four hours after receiving permission from the Basirhat sub-divisional court in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. He was arrested on February 29 by the West Bengal Police over an attack that was carried out by his supporters on a team of ED officials. The probe agency team members were attacked by the mob while they were on their way to conduct a raid on Shahjahan's house in Sandeshkhali over an alleged ration scam on January 5. He was arrested after being on the run on for over 55 days following violent protests led by women, alleging sexual atrocities and land grabs. Shahjahan was suspended by the Trinamool Congress for six years following his arrest. The case was transferred by the Calcutta High Court to CBI on March 6. Also read: 'They only know how to cook': Congress MLA gets embroiled in controversy over sexist remark CBI arrests Shahjahan's brother for involvement in Sandeshkhali ED assault case Earlier this month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had arrested three accused over involvement in the Sandeshkhali ED assault case, including Shahjahan's brother. The accused were identified as Mafujar Molla, Sirajul Molla and Sheikh Alomgir. A total of six people have so far been arrested by the CBI in the case and a probe is underway. NCW submits report on Sandeshkhali to President Rekha Sharma, who is the National Commission for Women chairperson, met President Droupadi Murmu earlier this month and submitted a report on the Sandeshkhali violence, the India-based news agency PTI reported citing sources. The commission recommended the President's Rule in West Bengal over the Sandeshkhali violence. A fact-finding report was also prepared by the commission which said that it has gathered disturbing testimonies of women alleging widespread fear and systematic abuse by both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Enforcement Directorate arrests Trinamool leader Sheikh Shahjahan in PMLA case

The United States on Friday (Mar 30) announced that it is set to impose fresh visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials following the crackdown on rights in the Chinese-ruled city.&nbsp;

The development came after a new national security law came into force.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement saying that in the past year China "continued to take actions against Hong Kong's promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms."

"In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms," Blinken said in a statement.

However, he did not share details on the officials that would be targeted in the latest sanctions.

He stated that the crackdown included the passage of 'Article 23', which is a national security law that is aimed at targeting several crimes such as treason, insurrection, espionage, and theft of state secrets among others.

The announcement by Blinken case after the annual review of Hong Kong's autonomy by Washington.

"This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under U.S. laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997," Blinken said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-in-nyc-report-being-punched-by-strangers-out-of-nowhere-elon-musk-reacts-705995">Women in NYC report being punched by strangers 'out of nowhere', Elon Musk reacts</a>

Previously, the United States imposed sanctions and visa curbs on Hong Kong officials that Washington has accused of corrupting the rights and freedoms that distinguish the city from the rest of China.

In the year 2020, the United States also withdrew the financial hub's special trade status in a retort to the revocation of 2019's violent, pro-democracy demonstrations.

China's foreign ministry representative in Hong Kong condemns US move

China's foreign ministry representative in Hong Kong "strongly condemned" the latest move by the United States dubbing it as an interference in Beijing's internal affairs.

The annual review of Hong Kong's autonomy was "a farce that nobody was buying... and should be sent to history's trash heap," said a spokesperson for the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Friday (Mar 30) announced that it is set to impose fresh visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials following the crackdown on rights in the Chinese-ruled city.

The United States on Friday (Mar 30) announced that it is set to impose fresh visa restrictions on Hong Kong officials following the crackdown on rights in the Chinese-ruled city. The development came after a new national security law came into force. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement saying that in the past year China "continued to take actions against Hong Kong's promised high degree of autonomy, democratic institutions, and rights and freedoms." "In response, the Department of State is announcing that it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for the intensifying crackdown on rights and freedoms," Blinken said in a statement. However, he did not share details on the officials that would be targeted in the latest sanctions. He stated that the crackdown included the passage of 'Article 23', which is a national security law that is aimed at targeting several crimes such as treason, insurrection, espionage, and theft of state secrets among others. The announcement by Blinken case after the annual review of Hong Kong's autonomy by Washington. "This year, I have again certified that Hong Kong does not warrant treatment under U.S. laws in the same manner as the laws were applied to Hong Kong before July 1, 1997," Blinken said. Also read: Women in NYC report being punched by strangers 'out of nowhere', Elon Musk reacts Previously, the United States imposed sanctions and visa curbs on Hong Kong officials that Washington has accused of corrupting the rights and freedoms that distinguish the city from the rest of China. In the year 2020, the United States also withdrew the financial hub's special trade status in a retort to the revocation of 2019's violent, pro-democracy demonstrations. China's foreign ministry representative in Hong Kong condemns US move China's foreign ministry representative in Hong Kong "strongly condemned" the latest move by the United States dubbing it as an interference in Beijing's internal affairs. The annual review of Hong Kong's autonomy was "a farce that nobody was buying... and should be sent to history's trash heap," said a spokesperson for the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (With inputs from agencies)

United States ‘taking steps’ to impose fresh visa curbs on Hong Kong officials

Indian Navy is conducting a major anti-piracy operation in the Arabian Sea.

The officials have deployed a warship to thwart piracy involving an Iranian fishing vessel with crew which is likely to be Pakistani, news agency ANI reported.

The Indian Navy on its official X handle wrote, "Based on the inputs on a potential piracy incident onboard the Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al-Kambar 786' late evening on 28 March, two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the Arabian Sea for maritime security operations were diverted to intercept the hijacked fishing vessel."

"The FV at the time of the incident was approximately 90 Nm southwest of Socotra and was reported to have been boarded by nine armed pirates. The hijacked FV has been intercepted on 29 March," it added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> Responds to Piracy Attack in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArabianSea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArabianSea</a>. 
 
Inputs received on a potential piracy incident onboard Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al Kamar 786' late evening on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/28Mar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#28Mar</a> 24, approx 90 nm South West of Socotra. 
Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArabianSea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArabianSea</a> for… <a href="https://t.co/L9jaejYESW">pic.twitter.com/L9jaejYESW</a>
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&nbsp;

It further added that the operation is still underway for the rescue of the hijacked FV and the crew members.&nbsp;

"The operation is currently underway by the Indian Navy towards the rescue of hijacked FV and its crew. Indian Navy remains committed to ensuring maritime security in the region and the safety of seafarers, irrespective of their nationalities," it said.

(More details awaited)

Indian Navy is conducting a major anti-piracy operation in the Arabian Sea. The officials have deployed a warship to thwart piracy involving an Iranian fishing vessel with crew which is likely to be Pakistani, news agency ANI reported.

Indian Navy is conducting a major anti-piracy operation in the Arabian Sea. The officials have deployed a warship to thwart piracy involving an Iranian fishing vessel with crew which is likely to be Pakistani, news agency ANI reported. The Indian Navy on its official X handle wrote, "Based on the inputs on a potential piracy incident onboard the Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al-Kambar 786' late evening on 28 March, two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the Arabian Sea for maritime security operations were diverted to intercept the hijacked fishing vessel." "The FV at the time of the incident was approximately 90 Nm southwest of Socotra and was reported to have been boarded by nine armed pirates. The hijacked FV has been intercepted on 29 March," it added. #IndianNavy Responds to Piracy Attack in the #ArabianSea. Inputs received on a potential piracy incident onboard Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al Kamar 786' late evening on #28Mar 24, approx 90 nm South West of Socotra. Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in #ArabianSea for… pic.twitter.com/L9jaejYESW — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) March 29, 2024 × It further added that the operation is still underway for the rescue of the hijacked FV and the crew members. "The operation is currently underway by the Indian Navy towards the rescue of hijacked FV and its crew. Indian Navy remains committed to ensuring maritime security in the region and the safety of seafarers, irrespective of their nationalities," it said. (More details awaited)

Indian Navy expands deployment to deter piracy involving Iranian vessel in Arabian Sea

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons.

The move comes weeks after the United Nations stated that it was probing US accusations and reports of the transfer of arms between Pyongyang and Moscow that apparently had been used by the latter in its war against Ukraine.

However, both Russia and North Korea have denied the accusations but did vow to have deepened their military relations last year.

"This is almost comparable to destroying a CCTV to avoid being caught red-handed," said South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang of Russia's veto.

China on Thursday abstained from the vote, while the other 13 council members voted in its favour.

"Moscow has undermined the prospect of the peaceful, diplomatic resolution of one of the world's most dangerous nuclear proliferation issues," deputy US Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood told the council.

Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia questioned the work done by the experts before the vote and told the Security Council, "Its work is increasingly being reduced to playing into the hands of Western approaches, reprinting biased information and analyzing newspaper headlines and poor quality photos."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nonsense-putin-rubbishes-idea-of-russia-attacking-nato-countries-but-warns-that-f-16s-705166">Putin rubbishes idea of Russia attacking NATO countries but warns...</a>

<h2>'A guilty plea'</h2>

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba took to social media and slammed the veto calling it "a guilty plea".

The United States called the veto by Russia a "self-interested effort to bury the panel's reporting on its own collusion" with North Korea.

"Russia's actions today have cynically undermined international peace and security, all to advance the corrupt bargain that Moscow has struck with the DPRK," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the North by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been under the sanction of the United Nations over its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes since the year 2016.

Over the years, these measures have been intensified.

For the past 15 years, the UN sanctions have been monitored by the panel of independent experts reporting to the &nbsp;Security Council twice a year, further recommending efforts for improved implementation of the measures.

The directive for the current panel of experts will expire on April 30, 2024.&nbsp;

The most recent report by them, which was made public earlier this month, stated that it was probing dozens of suspected cyberattacks by North Korea that raked in $3 billion to help it further develop its nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp;

"The panel, through its work to expose sanctions non-compliance, was an inconvenience for Russia," said Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward. "But let me be clear to Russia - the sanctions regime remains in place and the UK remains committed to holding DPRK to account for its compliance."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons.

Russia on Thursday (March 28) blocked the annual renewal of a panel of experts scrutinising the imposition of UN sanctions against North Korea over its ballistic projectile agendas and nuclear weapons. The move comes weeks after the United Nations stated that it was probing US accusations and reports of the transfer of arms between Pyongyang and Moscow that apparently had been used by the latter in its war against Ukraine. However, both Russia and North Korea have denied the accusations but did vow to have deepened their military relations last year. "This is almost comparable to destroying a CCTV to avoid being caught red-handed," said South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang of Russia's veto. China on Thursday abstained from the vote, while the other 13 council members voted in its favour. "Moscow has undermined the prospect of the peaceful, diplomatic resolution of one of the world's most dangerous nuclear proliferation issues," deputy US Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood told the council. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia questioned the work done by the experts before the vote and told the Security Council, "Its work is increasingly being reduced to playing into the hands of Western approaches, reprinting biased information and analyzing newspaper headlines and poor quality photos." Also read: Putin rubbishes idea of Russia attacking NATO countries but warns... 'A guilty plea' Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba took to social media and slammed the veto calling it "a guilty plea". The United States called the veto by Russia a "self-interested effort to bury the panel's reporting on its own collusion" with North Korea. "Russia's actions today have cynically undermined international peace and security, all to advance the corrupt bargain that Moscow has struck with the DPRK," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, referring to the North by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been under the sanction of the United Nations over its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes since the year 2016. Over the years, these measures have been intensified. For the past 15 years, the UN sanctions have been monitored by the panel of independent experts reporting to the Security Council twice a year, further recommending efforts for improved implementation of the measures. The directive for the current panel of experts will expire on April 30, 2024. The most recent report by them, which was made public earlier this month, stated that it was probing dozens of suspected cyberattacks by North Korea that raked in $3 billion to help it further develop its nuclear weapons programme. "The panel, through its work to expose sanctions non-compliance, was an inconvenience for Russia," said Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward. "But let me be clear to Russia - the sanctions regime remains in place and the UK remains committed to holding DPRK to account for its compliance." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian veto puts an end to monitoring of UN's North Korea sanctions

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants.

According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change.

<h2>'Gift from world's highest mountains'</h2>

The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range.

The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were&nbsp;unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official.

"The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Shortage of water</h2>

Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China.

However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands.

"The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said.

<h2>Maldives to get free military assistance from China</h2>

Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle.

Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change.

China has sent across over a million bottles filled with water from melting Tibetan glaciers to the Maldives which is currently reeling under the detrimental impact of climate change. With salt levels dripping into the land and corrupting water that is potable, the low-lying archipelago nation, which comprises over 1,192 tiny coral islands, is at the forefront of the climate crisis, further pushing it to be dependent on desalination plants. According to the scientists, the Himalayan glaciers are melting faster than ever due to the climate change. 'Gift from world's highest mountains' The Maldives foreign ministry released a statement saying that the consignment of 1,500 tonnes of drinking water was a gift from Yan Jinhai, the chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, or Tibet, lying more than 3,385 kilometres (2,100 miles) away on the far side of the world's highest mountain range. The bottles of water, which were packed into 90 sea containers, had arrived last week and were unloaded in the capital city Male, said a port authority official. "The Chairman of Xizang Autonomous Region announced his wish to donate 1,500 tonnes of drinking water... during his official visit to the country in November," the Maldives foreign ministry said in a statement. Shortage of water Earlier, there were reports that the water was imported for the consumption of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is also dubbed as pro-China. However, the ministry rebuffed the accusations stating that the ministry had decided to utilise the water to assist islands. "The government of Maldives has decided to utilise the water to provide assistance to islands in case of water shortage," it said. Maldives to get free military assistance from China Earlier this month, China inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties. The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations. Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle. Previously, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels.

Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks.

He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks.

"We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-threatened-maldives-receives-tibetan-glacier-water-from-china-705369">Climate-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China</a>

The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing.

However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation.

"It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing.

"We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere."&nbsp;

The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago.

China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads".

Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community".

"They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday (Mar 28) vowed countermeasures against "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks" by China's coastguard stating that his country will not be "cowed into silence" by Beijing. The remarks by Marcos come amid an escalating row in the South China Sea following altercations between the two sides that wounded Filipino troops and also severely damaged vessels. Marcos did not provide details about the countermeasures, however, said that they would be proportionate, deliberate and reasonable in response to what he described as open and unabating attacks. He also said that the countermeasures would be implemented in the coming weeks. "We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience," Marcos said on Facebook. Also read: Climate-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China The strained ties between the two countries come after Marcos sought to intensify the defence ties with the United States, advancing Washington's access to Philippine military bases and augmenting joint exercises so as to include sea and air patrols over the South China Sea, hence infuriating Beijing. However, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian on Thursday (Mar 28) blamed the Philippines for the breakdown stating that it was relying on outside support and was invading China's sovereignty and spreading misinformation. "It is straying further down a dangerous path. The Chinese side will not allow the Philippines to act willfully," Wu told a briefing. "We have responded with legitimate, resolute and restrained actions. The Philippine side should realise that provocations will only do themselves more harm than good, and soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere." The most recent flare-up happened last week when China made use of a water cannon to thwart a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal for the troops deployed to monitor a warship purposefully grounded on a reef almost two decades ago. China on Monday issued a warning to the Philippines to behave cautiously and seek dialogue stating that the relations between both countries were at a "crossroads". Marcos said he met his defence and security officials and has been in communication with "friends in the international community". "They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific," Marcos said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence'

Congress on Friday (Mar 29) accused the Income Tax Department of double standards alleging that it penalised the grand old party over a violation of Rs 14 lakh (16,789 USD) but was silent at the time the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made a violation of Rs 42 crore (50,36,997 USD) that entailed a penalty of Rs 4,600 crore (5,51,671 USD).

While addressing a press conference, Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh and Ajay Maken alleged that the ruling party at the Centre was making attempts to stifle the grand old party financially ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Maken further stated that it was the Election Commission's responsibility to ensure fair play during the elections.

"We have received notices from the time of Sitaram Kesari, from 1993-94... We have been demanded to pay Rs 53 crores from the time of Sitaram Kesari. A total of Rs 1823 crores has been made by the IT department from Congress," he said.

"We have analysed all violations of the BJP using the same parameters they used to analyse our violations... BJP has a penalty of Rs 4600 crore. The income Tax department should raise a demand from the BJP for the payment of this amount," he added.

Maken alleged that the saffron party was making efforts to weaken the Congress financially by freezing their bank accounts ahead of Lok Sabha polls.

"Our analysis reveals that out of the 1,297 individuals who donated to the BJP, their identities remain undisclosed with no addresses or evidence of contribution totalling Rs 42 crore, indicating a blatant breach of regulations. Additionally, there are 92 individuals whose names are absent from the list but they provided electoral bonds to the BJP," he said.

The Congress leaders also hit out at BJP over the electoral bond scheme.

Ramesh accused the BJP of "hypocrisy" and its government of resorting to "tax terrorism".

"Through the electoral bond scam, the BJP collected over Rs 8,200 crore as donations. There were different routes, there was a prepaid bribe route, there was post-paid bribe route, there was post raid group 'chanda-dhandha, raid-paid', and there was a shell company route," alleged Ramesh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-elections-2024-india-bloc-announces-seat-sharing-in-bihar-rjd-gets-26-seats-congress-gets-9-705566">Lok Sabha elections 2024: INDIA bloc announces seat sharing in Bihar; RJD gets 26 seats, Congress gets 9</a>

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took to his official X account and stated that his party would take stern action against the ones attempting to "disintegrate democracy".

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जब सरकार बदलेगी तो ‘लोकतंत्र का चीरहरण’ करने वालों पर कार्रवाई ज़रूर होगी! 
 
और ऐसी कार्रवाई होगी कि दोबारा फिर किसी की हिम्मत नहीं होगी, ये सब करने की। 
 
ये मेरी गारंटी है।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJPTaxTerrorism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJPTaxTerrorism</a> <a href="https://t.co/SSkiolorvH">pic.twitter.com/SSkiolorvH</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1773663481679458688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"When the government changes, action will definitely be taken against those who 'disintegrate democracy'! And such action will be taken that no one will have the courage to do all this again. This is my guarantee," he said in a post on X.

<h2>Venugopal accuses EC of being mute spectator</h2>

Party leader KC Venugopal further accused the Election Commission of being a mute spectator.

"Notice, account freeze, notice, account freeze. That is the BJP's modus operandi of stifling INC financially. In a new bizarre notice, a penalty of Rs. 1800 crore has been imposed on INC. Is this how a fair election is supposed to be conducted? Is the idea of a level playing field only on paper? Why is the Election Commission a mute spectator to this?" he asked.

"If the same treatment was meted out to the BJP, they should have to pay Rs. 4600 crore. But has there been any action on them? Have any of the authorities involved moved an inch against them? This is a blatant murder of democracy and we will protest across the country against this illegal action," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress on Friday (Mar 29) accused the Income Tax Department of double standards alleging that it penalised the grand old party over a violation of Rs 14 lakh (16,789 USD) but was silent at the time the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made a violation of Rs 42 crore (50,36,997 USD) that entailed a penalty of Rs 4,600 crore (5,51,671 USD).

Congress on Friday (Mar 29) accused the Income Tax Department of double standards alleging that it penalised the grand old party over a violation of Rs 14 lakh (16,789 USD) but was silent at the time the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made a violation of Rs 42 crore (50,36,997 USD) that entailed a penalty of Rs 4,600 crore (5,51,671 USD). While addressing a press conference, Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh and Ajay Maken alleged that the ruling party at the Centre was making attempts to stifle the grand old party financially ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Maken further stated that it was the Election Commission's responsibility to ensure fair play during the elections. "We have received notices from the time of Sitaram Kesari, from 1993-94... We have been demanded to pay Rs 53 crores from the time of Sitaram Kesari. A total of Rs 1823 crores has been made by the IT department from Congress," he said. "We have analysed all violations of the BJP using the same parameters they used to analyse our violations... BJP has a penalty of Rs 4600 crore. The income Tax department should raise a demand from the BJP for the payment of this amount," he added. Maken alleged that the saffron party was making efforts to weaken the Congress financially by freezing their bank accounts ahead of Lok Sabha polls. "Our analysis reveals that out of the 1,297 individuals who donated to the BJP, their identities remain undisclosed with no addresses or evidence of contribution totalling Rs 42 crore, indicating a blatant breach of regulations. Additionally, there are 92 individuals whose names are absent from the list but they provided electoral bonds to the BJP," he said. The Congress leaders also hit out at BJP over the electoral bond scheme. Ramesh accused the BJP of "hypocrisy" and its government of resorting to "tax terrorism". "Through the electoral bond scam, the BJP collected over Rs 8,200 crore as donations. There were different routes, there was a prepaid bribe route, there was post-paid bribe route, there was post raid group 'chanda-dhandha, raid-paid', and there was a shell company route," alleged Ramesh. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: INDIA bloc announces seat sharing in Bihar; RJD gets 26 seats, Congress gets 9 Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took to his official X account and stated that his party would take stern action against the ones attempting to "disintegrate democracy". जब सरकार बदलेगी तो ‘लोकतंत्र का चीरहरण’ करने वालों पर कार्रवाई ज़रूर होगी! और ऐसी कार्रवाई होगी कि दोबारा फिर किसी की हिम्मत नहीं होगी, ये सब करने की। ये मेरी गारंटी है।#BJPTaxTerrorism pic.twitter.com/SSkiolorvH — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 29, 2024 × "When the government changes, action will definitely be taken against those who 'disintegrate democracy'! And such action will be taken that no one will have the courage to do all this again. This is my guarantee," he said in a post on X. Venugopal accuses EC of being mute spectator Party leader KC Venugopal further accused the Election Commission of being a mute spectator. "Notice, account freeze, notice, account freeze. That is the BJP's modus operandi of stifling INC financially. In a new bizarre notice, a penalty of Rs. 1800 crore has been imposed on INC. Is this how a fair election is supposed to be conducted? Is the idea of a level playing field only on paper? Why is the Election Commission a mute spectator to this?" he asked. "If the same treatment was meted out to the BJP, they should have to pay Rs. 4600 crore. But has there been any action on them? Have any of the authorities involved moved an inch against them? This is a blatant murder of democracy and we will protest across the country against this illegal action," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress accuses IT department of double standards after receiving notice for fresh tax demand

In a significant development in Bengaluru’s Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA)&nbsp;has arrested a key conspirator after massive raids were conducted across multiple locations in three states.

The key conspirator identified as Muzammil Shareef, was picked up as a co-conspirator and arrested on Wednesday (Mar 27) following NIA's crackdown at 18 locations, which included 12 in the state of Karnataka, one in Uttar Pradesh and five in Tamil Nadu.

“The NIA investigations have revealed that Muzammil Shareef had extended logistic support to the other two identified accused in the case...Various digital devices were seized during the searches, along with cash," the NIA said.

The Federal probe agency took over the case from the Karnataka Police on March 3.&nbsp;

The NIA had identified the main accused, Mussavir Shazeeb Hussain, earlier who carried out the blast.&nbsp;

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Rameshwaram Café blast case: National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a key conspirator following massive raids across multiple locations in three states. Muzammil Shareef was picked up and placed in custody as a co-conspirator after NIA teams cracked down at 18 locations,… <a href="https://t.co/TEzXTXpSv3">pic.twitter.com/TEzXTXpSv3</a>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
The agency released a statement saying that another key conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taha, is also wanted by the NIA in several other cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-cafe-blast-case-baseball-cap-donned-by-suspect-gave-key-clue-to-police-says-report-703005">Also read:&nbsp;Bengaluru cafe blast case: Limited edition baseball cap helped police identify suspect</a>

“Both the men are on the run,” it added.

The NIA probes showed that Muzammil Shareef had provided logistic support to two others who were identified as accused in the case.

“Raids were conducted today at the houses of all these three accused as well as the residential premises and shops of other suspects,” said the statement by the probe agency.

Several digital devices and cash were seized during the searches, said the agency.

"Efforts are on to nab the absconding accused and unearth the larger conspiracy behind the blast," the statement added.

The blast wounded several customers and hotel staff members of the cafe and caused severe damage to the eatery.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development in Bengaluru’s Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a key conspirator after massive raids were conducted across multiple locations in three states.

In a significant development in Bengaluru’s Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a key conspirator after massive raids were conducted across multiple locations in three states. The key conspirator identified as Muzammil Shareef, was picked up as a co-conspirator and arrested on Wednesday (Mar 27) following NIA's crackdown at 18 locations, which included 12 in the state of Karnataka, one in Uttar Pradesh and five in Tamil Nadu. “The NIA investigations have revealed that Muzammil Shareef had extended logistic support to the other two identified accused in the case...Various digital devices were seized during the searches, along with cash," the NIA said. The Federal probe agency took over the case from the Karnataka Police on March 3. The NIA had identified the main accused, Mussavir Shazeeb Hussain, earlier who carried out the blast. Rameshwaram Café blast case: National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a key conspirator following massive raids across multiple locations in three states. Muzammil Shareef was picked up and placed in custody as a co-conspirator after NIA teams cracked down at 18 locations,… pic.twitter.com/TEzXTXpSv3 — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2024 × The agency released a statement saying that another key conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taha, is also wanted by the NIA in several other cases. Also read: Bengaluru cafe blast case: Limited edition baseball cap helped police identify suspect “Both the men are on the run,” it added. The NIA probes showed that Muzammil Shareef had provided logistic support to two others who were identified as accused in the case. “Raids were conducted today at the houses of all these three accused as well as the residential premises and shops of other suspects,” said the statement by the probe agency. Several digital devices and cash were seized during the searches, said the agency. "Efforts are on to nab the absconding accused and unearth the larger conspiracy behind the blast," the statement added. The blast wounded several customers and hotel staff members of the cafe and caused severe damage to the eatery. (With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA arrests key conspirator after multiple raids

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 28), reacting to the Baltimore Bridge Collapse incident said that one of the Indian crew members aboard the cargo ship was slightly injured.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing a weekly press briefing, said that the remaining 19 crew members were in good health and that the embassies were in close touch with them and the local authorities in the matter.

"Out of the 21 crew members, 20 are Indians. All of them are in good health. One of them is slightly injured. The stitches have been done," Jaiswal said.

"Our Embassies are in close touch with the Indians on board and also the local authorities in this matter," he added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On the Baltimore Bridge Collapse incident, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says "...Out of the 21 crew members, 20 are Indians. All of them are in good health. One of them is slightly injured. The stitches have been done. Our Embassies are in close touch with the… <a href="https://t.co/PeoGYxpnsD">pic.twitter.com/PeoGYxpnsD</a>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Mayday call saves lives, helps authorities halt traffic&nbsp;</h2>

The Singapore-flagged container ship Dali was departing from Baltimore on Tuesday (Mar 26) with a full cargo en route to Sri Lanka when it hit the concrete pier which was supporting the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

After seconds, the entire bridge fell into 50 feet of frigid water flowing below. Just before the incident, a Mayday call was issued by the ship as it warned that it had lost power and the authorities scrambled to close traffic movement on the bridge to save lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-collapse-joe-biden-appreciates-sos-sent-by-indian-crew-on-ship-704755">Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Joe Biden appreciates quick SOS sent by Indian crew on ship</a>

In the CCTV footage, the ship was seen going dark twice minutes before the crash happened. After the collision, a puff of smoke was seen rising from the ship.&nbsp;

<h2>Two bodies recovered; retrieval efforts suspended&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, divers on Wednesday (Mar 27) recovered the bodies of two of the six workers missing since the ship smashed into the bridge after being struck by a faltering cargo freighter.

The bodies, as per Reuters news agency, were found in the Patapsco River.

Maryland State Police Colonel Roland Butler confirmed that the bodies of Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of nearby Dundalk, were discovered in a red pickup truck.

The truck was submerged in about 25 feet (7.62 metres) near the mid-section of the fallen bridge.

The four other workers are still missing and are presumed dead given the length of time that has elapsed since the bridge collapse and the frigid temperature&nbsp;of the water. According to officials, the six workers also included immigrants from Honduras and El Salvador.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 28), reacting to the Baltimore Bridge Collapse incident said that one of the Indian crew members aboard the cargo ship was slightly injured.

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (Mar 28), reacting to the Baltimore Bridge Collapse incident said that one of the Indian crew members aboard the cargo ship was slightly injured. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing a weekly press briefing, said that the remaining 19 crew members were in good health and that the embassies were in close touch with them and the local authorities in the matter. "Out of the 21 crew members, 20 are Indians. All of them are in good health. One of them is slightly injured. The stitches have been done," Jaiswal said. "Our Embassies are in close touch with the Indians on board and also the local authorities in this matter," he added. #WATCH | On the Baltimore Bridge Collapse incident, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says "...Out of the 21 crew members, 20 are Indians. All of them are in good health. One of them is slightly injured. The stitches have been done. Our Embassies are in close touch with the… pic.twitter.com/PeoGYxpnsD — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2024 × Mayday call saves lives, helps authorities halt traffic The Singapore-flagged container ship Dali was departing from Baltimore on Tuesday (Mar 26) with a full cargo en route to Sri Lanka when it hit the concrete pier which was supporting the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. After seconds, the entire bridge fell into 50 feet of frigid water flowing below. Just before the incident, a Mayday call was issued by the ship as it warned that it had lost power and the authorities scrambled to close traffic movement on the bridge to save lives. Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Joe Biden appreciates quick SOS sent by Indian crew on ship In the CCTV footage, the ship was seen going dark twice minutes before the crash happened. After the collision, a puff of smoke was seen rising from the ship. Two bodies recovered; retrieval efforts suspended Meanwhile, divers on Wednesday (Mar 27) recovered the bodies of two of the six workers missing since the ship smashed into the bridge after being struck by a faltering cargo freighter. The bodies, as per Reuters news agency, were found in the Patapsco River. Maryland State Police Colonel Roland Butler confirmed that the bodies of Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of nearby Dundalk, were discovered in a red pickup truck. The truck was submerged in about 25 feet (7.62 metres) near the mid-section of the fallen bridge. The four other workers are still missing and are presumed dead given the length of time that has elapsed since the bridge collapse and the frigid temperature of the water. According to officials, the six workers also included immigrants from Honduras and El Salvador. (With inputs from agencies)

Baltimore bridge collapse: One Indian crew member 'slightly injured,' says external affairs ministry

Former Haryana minister Savitri Jindal on Thursday (Mar 28) resigned from the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The development came days after her son, industrialist Naveen Jindal quit the grand old party and joined BJP.

She joined the saffron party at an event in Hisar in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, former CM Manohar Lal Khattar and other BJP leaders.

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माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी जी के नेतृत्व, गृहमंत्री श्री अमित शाह जी, डॉ जे.पी. नड्डा जी के मार्गदर्शन और पूर्व मुख्यमंत्री श्री मनोहर लाल जी एवं मुख्यमंत्री श्री नायब सिंह सैनी जी की अगुवाई में मुझे और मेरी पूरी टीम को आदर और सम्मान के साथ भारतीय जनता पार्टी व मोदी… <a href="https://t.co/SN9IEaq5am">pic.twitter.com/SN9IEaq5am</a>
— Savitri Jindal (@SavitriJindal) <a href="https://twitter.com/SavitriJindal/status/1773291924742602953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The 84-year-old took to her social media account and announced the decision to quit Congress in a post late on Wednesday night (Mar 27).

"I represented the people of Hisar for 10 years as an MLA and have served Haryana state selflessly as a minister. The people of Hisar are my family and on the advice of my family, I am resigning from the primary membership of the Congress today," she wrote.

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मैंने विधायक के रूप में 10 साल हिसार की जनता का प्रतिनिधित्व किया और मंत्री के रूप में हरियाणा प्रदेश की निस्वार्थ सेवा की है। 
 
हिसार की जनता ही मेरा परिवार है और मैं अपने परिवार की सलाह पर आज कांग्रेस पार्टी की प्राथमिक सदस्यता से इस्तीफा दे रही हूं । कांग्रेस नेतृत्व के समर्थन…
— Savitri Jindal (@SavitriJindal) <a href="https://twitter.com/SavitriJindal/status/1773040256981557433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Savitri, who was listed by Forbes India as the richest woman in the country earlier this year, has a net worth of 29.1 billion USD (one billion = Rs 100 crore).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bully-others-is-vintage-congress-culture-pm-modi-on-lawyers-letter-to-chief-justice-of-india-705230">'Bully others is vintage Congress culture': PM Modi on lawyers' letter to CJI</a>

She is the wife of the late industrialist and former minister OP Jindal and has previously served as a minister in the Bhupinder Singh Hooda-led Congress government in the state of Haryana.

She lost in the year 2014 to BJP’s Dr Kamal Gupta from Hisar.&nbsp;

Gupta currently is a minister in the Nayab Singh Saini government.

<h2>Naveen Jindal joins BJP</h2>

Earlier, industrialist Naveen Jindal had quit the Congress and joined the BJP stating that he wanted to contribute to PM Modi's agenda of 'Viksit Bharat'.

He joined the saffron party in the presence of its general secretary Vinod Tawde.

Tawde said that Jindal's presence in the party would contribute to the government's agenda of boosting the country's prosperity and economy.

Jindal represented the Kurukshetra constituency in Lok Sabha from 2004 to 2014 as a Congress MP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Haryana minister Savitri Jindal on Thursday (Mar 28) resigned from the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The development came days after her son, industrialist Naveen Jindal quit the grand old party and joined BJP.

Former Haryana minister Savitri Jindal on Thursday (Mar 28) resigned from the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The development came days after her son, industrialist Naveen Jindal quit the grand old party and joined BJP. She joined the saffron party at an event in Hisar in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, former CM Manohar Lal Khattar and other BJP leaders. माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी जी के नेतृत्व, गृहमंत्री श्री अमित शाह जी, डॉ जे.पी. नड्डा जी के मार्गदर्शन और पूर्व मुख्यमंत्री श्री मनोहर लाल जी एवं मुख्यमंत्री श्री नायब सिंह सैनी जी की अगुवाई में मुझे और मेरी पूरी टीम को आदर और सम्मान के साथ भारतीय जनता पार्टी व मोदी… pic.twitter.com/SN9IEaq5am — Savitri Jindal (@SavitriJindal) March 28, 2024 × The 84-year-old took to her social media account and announced the decision to quit Congress in a post late on Wednesday night (Mar 27). "I represented the people of Hisar for 10 years as an MLA and have served Haryana state selflessly as a minister. The people of Hisar are my family and on the advice of my family, I am resigning from the primary membership of the Congress today," she wrote. मैंने विधायक के रूप में 10 साल हिसार की जनता का प्रतिनिधित्व किया और मंत्री के रूप में हरियाणा प्रदेश की निस्वार्थ सेवा की है। हिसार की जनता ही मेरा परिवार है और मैं अपने परिवार की सलाह पर आज कांग्रेस पार्टी की प्राथमिक सदस्यता से इस्तीफा दे रही हूं । कांग्रेस नेतृत्व के समर्थन… — Savitri Jindal (@SavitriJindal) March 27, 2024 × Savitri, who was listed by Forbes India as the richest woman in the country earlier this year, has a net worth of 29.1 billion USD (one billion = Rs 100 crore). Also read: 'Bully others is vintage Congress culture': PM Modi on lawyers' letter to CJI She is the wife of the late industrialist and former minister OP Jindal and has previously served as a minister in the Bhupinder Singh Hooda-led Congress government in the state of Haryana. She lost in the year 2014 to BJP’s Dr Kamal Gupta from Hisar. Gupta currently is a minister in the Nayab Singh Saini government. Naveen Jindal joins BJP Earlier, industrialist Naveen Jindal had quit the Congress and joined the BJP stating that he wanted to contribute to PM Modi's agenda of 'Viksit Bharat'. He joined the saffron party in the presence of its general secretary Vinod Tawde. Tawde said that Jindal's presence in the party would contribute to the government's agenda of boosting the country's prosperity and economy. Jindal represented the Kurukshetra constituency in Lok Sabha from 2004 to 2014 as a Congress MP. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Haryana minister Savitri Jindal quits Congress, joins BJP

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.e. till April 1 in the excise policy case.

The central probe agency had sought a seven-day extension of the Delhi chief minister's custodial remand at the court stating that they would&nbsp;be requiring&nbsp;further&nbsp;interrogation of Kejriwal in order to confront him with a set of other people.

However, the court stated that the AAP chief have&nbsp;to be produced before it on Monday (Apr 1) at 11 am.

He was produced in the court before special Judge Kaveri Baweja who extended the ED remand period until April 1, 2024.

The investigation agency in its renewed remand plea stated that Kejriwal's statements were recorded on five days during his custodial interrogation and he was "giving evasive replies".

It said that during the remand, the statements of the other three persons were also recorded.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-claims-ed-trying-to-crush-aap-top-quotes-from-court-hearing-705163">Arvind Kejriwal claims ED trying to crush AAP, top quotes from court hearing</a>

<h2>'I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet,' says Kejriwal</h2>

The Delhi chief minister addressed the court during the hearing and said, "CBI lodged an FIR on August 17, 2022, ED lodged ECIR on August 22, 2022."

"I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet. CBI filed 31,000 pages and ED has filed 25,000 pages related to this matter. Even if you read them together, I would like to ask why have I been arrested? My name came to light only in four statements of four people," Kejriwal added.

"Are these four statements made by different people sufficient to arrest a sitting Chief Minister?" he asked referring to the statements of C Arvind, Raghav Magunta and his father&nbsp;Sharath Reddy.

He then alleged that people were being forced to turn&nbsp;approvers in the case and&nbsp;change their statements further claiming that there was a political conspiracy behind his arrest.

"You may keep me in remand as long as you like...I am ready for investigation," the Delhi Chief Minister said.

He also alleged that the ED's agenda was to crush his party.

"It's being alleged that 100 crore was in Liquor scam...Justice Sanjiv Khanna said that the money trail is not yet traced," Kejriwal said.

"The real liquor scam begins post the ED investigation. The motive of the ED is to crush the Aam Aadmi Party," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.e. till April 1 in the excise policy case. The central probe agency had sought a seven-day extension of the Delhi chief minister's custodial remand at the court stating that they would be requiring further interrogation of Kejriwal in order to confront him with a set of other people. However, the court stated that the AAP chief have to be produced before it on Monday (Apr 1) at 11 am. He was produced in the court before special Judge Kaveri Baweja who extended the ED remand period until April 1, 2024. The investigation agency in its renewed remand plea stated that Kejriwal's statements were recorded on five days during his custodial interrogation and he was "giving evasive replies". It said that during the remand, the statements of the other three persons were also recorded. Also read: Arvind Kejriwal claims ED trying to crush AAP, top quotes from court hearing 'I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet,' says Kejriwal The Delhi chief minister addressed the court during the hearing and said, "CBI lodged an FIR on August 17, 2022, ED lodged ECIR on August 22, 2022." "I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet. CBI filed 31,000 pages and ED has filed 25,000 pages related to this matter. Even if you read them together, I would like to ask why have I been arrested? My name came to light only in four statements of four people," Kejriwal added. "Are these four statements made by different people sufficient to arrest a sitting Chief Minister?" he asked referring to the statements of C Arvind, Raghav Magunta and his father Sharath Reddy. He then alleged that people were being forced to turn approvers in the case and change their statements further claiming that there was a political conspiracy behind his arrest. "You may keep me in remand as long as you like...I am ready for investigation," the Delhi Chief Minister said. He also alleged that the ED's agenda was to crush his party. "It's being alleged that 100 crore was in Liquor scam...Justice Sanjiv Khanna said that the money trail is not yet traced," Kejriwal said. "The real liquor scam begins post the ED investigation. The motive of the ED is to crush the Aam Aadmi Party," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi court extends Arvind Kejriwal's ED custody till April 1

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Monday (Mar 25) announced multiple new anti-drug raids across the country, terming them as "XXL cleanup operations".

Darmanin said that police units conducted raids and also arrested several people in various cities such as Lille, Villeneuve-d'Ascq and Roubaix.

He stated that in the coming days, the authorities were "going to multiply the operations that we have prepared for months to hit very hard."

The French minister took to his official X handle and wrote that the operations would proceed with the inspections and searches of residential buildings. He then stated that the operation's initial raid took place in Marseille last week.

The efforts are a part of the government's broader crackdown on drug trafficking across France ahead of elections for the European Parliament that are scheduled from June 6 to June 9.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guinea-earthquake-five-killed-1000-houses-damaged-rescue-efforts-underway-704126">Papua New Guinea earthquake: Five killed, 1,000 houses damaged; rescue efforts underway</a>

<h2>Macron vows 10 similar operations in the coming weeks</h2>

During his recent visit to the southern port city of Marseille, which is often linked to the drug trafficking menace, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed that 10 such operations would be executed in the coming weeks.

He launched a major operation against the narcotics trade in Marseille and other French cities, stating that the gangland battles that had claimed the lives of many in the past&nbsp;had made it miserable for the people residing in those particular areas.

"In Marseille and other cities in France, we have launched an unprecedented operation to put a stop to drug trafficking and ensure republican order," Macron wrote in a post on X.

He asserted that the operations would ensure an "XXL" cleanup.

Approximately 900 police and customs officers were deployed in Marseille and the Bouches-du-Rhone region on the first day of the operation, news agency AFP reported citing local authorities.

In the first three days of the operation, nearly 22 kilogrammes of drugs, over 385,000 euros ($417,000) and four weapons were seized and 71 people were placed in custody.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Monday (Mar 25) announced multiple new anti-drug raids across the country, terming them as "XXL cleanup operations". Darmanin said that police units conducted raids and also arrested several people in various cities such as Lille, Villeneuve-d'Ascq and Roubaix.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Monday (Mar 25) announced multiple new anti-drug raids across the country, terming them as "XXL cleanup operations". Darmanin said that police units conducted raids and also arrested several people in various cities such as Lille, Villeneuve-d'Ascq and Roubaix. He stated that in the coming days, the authorities were "going to multiply the operations that we have prepared for months to hit very hard." The French minister took to his official X handle and wrote that the operations would proceed with the inspections and searches of residential buildings. He then stated that the operation's initial raid took place in Marseille last week. The efforts are a part of the government's broader crackdown on drug trafficking across France ahead of elections for the European Parliament that are scheduled from June 6 to June 9. Also read: Papua New Guinea earthquake: Five killed, 1,000 houses damaged; rescue efforts underway Macron vows 10 similar operations in the coming weeks During his recent visit to the southern port city of Marseille, which is often linked to the drug trafficking menace, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed that 10 such operations would be executed in the coming weeks. He launched a major operation against the narcotics trade in Marseille and other French cities, stating that the gangland battles that had claimed the lives of many in the past had made it miserable for the people residing in those particular areas. "In Marseille and other cities in France, we have launched an unprecedented operation to put a stop to drug trafficking and ensure republican order," Macron wrote in a post on X. He asserted that the operations would ensure an "XXL" cleanup. Approximately 900 police and customs officers were deployed in Marseille and the Bouches-du-Rhone region on the first day of the operation, news agency AFP reported citing local authorities. In the first three days of the operation, nearly 22 kilogrammes of drugs, over 385,000 euros ($417,000) and four weapons were seized and 71 people were placed in custody. (With inputs from agencies)

France launches several anti-drug raids across country in major crackdown ahead of elections

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