<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a&nbsp;group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis&nbsp;suddenly got up&nbsp;and&nbsp;started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi,&nbsp;interrupting his speech.</p>

<p>The supporters raised slogans against&nbsp;Indira Gandhi and the Gandhi family over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and massacre.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rahul Gandhi heckled by Khalistanis in California<br />
<br />
They raised Khalistan flag &amp; Khalistan Zindabad slogans<br />
<br />
It's done by US-based Khalistani outfit SFJ &amp; its chief Pannu released video of heckling Rahul Gandhi &amp; threatening PM Modi's US visit in June<br />
<br />
CC: <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAndIndia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAmbIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/W2MCIjkOR3">pic.twitter.com/W2MCIjkOR3</a></p>
— Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AskAnshul/status/1663787682026393600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A video was shared by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on social media which showed the visuals when the Khalistani supporters were protesting against the Congress leader.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi can explain God how universe works, says Rahul Gandhi</strong></h2>

<p>In another event while addressing the Indian diaspora in the United States on Wednesday, Gandhi stated that a bunch of people who are 'absolutely convinced' that they know everything has been running the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi claimed that these people can sit down with God and explain things, adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is 'one such specimen'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think if you Modiji sat next to God, Modiji would start explaining to God how the universe works. Right? And God would get confused that what have I created. These are funny things but this is what is going on. There's a group of people who understands everything. They can explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the Army.. And at the heart of it is mediocrity, they actually don't understand anything. Because in life, you can not understand anything if you are not ready to listen," Gandhi stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi said, “We were finding it difficult to act politically due to misuse of agencies and therefore, we decided to start Bharat Jodo Yatra.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-grants-no-objection-certificate-to-rahul-gandhi-for-issuance-of-ordinary-passport-for-3-years-596839">Delhi court grants No Objection Certificate to Rahul Gandhi for issuance of ‘ordinary passport’ for 3 years</a></p>

<h2><strong>'No idea rejected by India'</strong></h2>

<p>He added that the people of India have not rejected any idea while speaking to the NRIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's the India you represent. You would not be here if you did not agree with these values. If you believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing 'mann ki baat'. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian Flag," Gandhi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now they have asked me to answer your questions. This also would not happen in BJP. No question, only answers there," the Congress leader further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi is visiting the United States for 10 days and San Francisco is&nbsp;his first stop. He will travel to Washington DC and New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last foreign visit of Gandhi, which was to the UK, had led to a major controversy in India as he, who was then an MP, faced accusations of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi addresses press conference a day after removal as MP, says 'not scared of jail'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-rahul-gandhi-addresses-press-conference-a-day-after-removal-as-mp-says-not-scared-of-jail-575596/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Gandhi speaks on Sengol&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Gandhi stated that the government led by PM Modi failed to address issues like price rise, unemployment, the spread of hatred and anger, price rise and the crumbling education system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. You know lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down," stated Gandhi, while speaking about the Sengol controversy which surfaced after the new Parliament building's inauguration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sengol is believed to be the symbol of power handed over from British India to independent India in 1947 and is displayed at a museum in Allahabad. The prime minister has installed the Sengol in the new Parliament building. The Congress stated there was no evidence of this claim.&nbsp;</p>

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis suddenly got up and started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi, interrupting his speech.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis suddenly got up and started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi, interrupting his speech. The supporters raised slogans against Indira Gandhi and the Gandhi family over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and massacre. Rahul Gandhi heckled by Khalistanis in California They raised Khalistan flag & Khalistan Zindabad slogans It's done by US-based Khalistani outfit SFJ & its chief Pannu released video of heckling Rahul Gandhi & threatening PM Modi's US visit in June CC: @USAndIndia, @USAmbIndia pic.twitter.com/W2MCIjkOR3 — Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) May 31, 2023 × A video was shared by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on social media which showed the visuals when the Khalistani supporters were protesting against the Congress leader. PM Modi can explain God how universe works, says Rahul Gandhi In another event while addressing the Indian diaspora in the United States on Wednesday, Gandhi stated that a bunch of people who are 'absolutely convinced' that they know everything has been running the nation. Gandhi claimed that these people can sit down with God and explain things, adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is 'one such specimen'. "I think if you Modiji sat next to God, Modiji would start explaining to God how the universe works. Right? And God would get confused that what have I created. These are funny things but this is what is going on. There's a group of people who understands everything. They can explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the Army.. And at the heart of it is mediocrity, they actually don't understand anything. Because in life, you can not understand anything if you are not ready to listen," Gandhi stated. Speaking about his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi said, “We were finding it difficult to act politically due to misuse of agencies and therefore, we decided to start Bharat Jodo Yatra.” ALSO READ | Delhi court grants No Objection Certificate to Rahul Gandhi for issuance of ‘ordinary passport’ for 3 years 'No idea rejected by India' He added that the people of India have not rejected any idea while speaking to the NRIs. "That's the India you represent. You would not be here if you did not agree with these values. If you believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing 'mann ki baat'. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian Flag," Gandhi added. "Now they have asked me to answer your questions. This also would not happen in BJP. No question, only answers there," the Congress leader further stated. Gandhi is visiting the United States for 10 days and San Francisco is his first stop. He will travel to Washington DC and New York. The last foreign visit of Gandhi, which was to the UK, had led to a major controversy in India as he, who was then an MP, faced accusations of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil. WATCH | India: Rahul Gandhi addresses press conference a day after removal as MP, says 'not scared of jail' Gandhi speaks on Sengol Gandhi stated that the government led by PM Modi failed to address issues like price rise, unemployment, the spread of hatred and anger, price rise and the crumbling education system. "The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. You know lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down," stated Gandhi, while speaking about the Sengol controversy which surfaced after the new Parliament building's inauguration. The Sengol is believed to be the symbol of power handed over from British India to independent India in 1947 and is displayed at a museum in Allahabad. The prime minister has installed the Sengol in the new Parliament building. The Congress stated there was no evidence of this claim. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Ghost of Sikh riots haunts Rahul Gandhi's California visit, leader gets heckled by Khalistanis

In Pics | AI images of billionaire Elon Musk as an Indian groom take internet by storm

<p>A fire was sparked at an oil refinery located in southern Russia by a Ukrainian drone. The drone attack came as Ukraine carried out shelling for the third time in a Russian town which is close to the border, stated Russian officials on Wednesday. They said vehicles were set afire and buildings were damaged in the attack. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was made by the governor of Russia's Krasnodar region, a day after Ukraine was accused by Russia of carrying out a drone attack in Moscow. The governor added that the drone had set the Afipsky oil refinery ablaze.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the Telegram messaging app, Governor Veniamin Kondratyev said that the officials soon extinguished the fire and there were no casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukrainian-drones-hit-buildings-in-russia-598300">Russia blames Ukraine for massive drone attack on Moscow, Kyiv denies involvement</a></p>

<p>The Afipsky refinery is close to the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, which is near another refinery that had been attacked various times this month.</p>

<p>No immediate information was released about who launched the drone, but Kyiv was accused by Moscow of carrying out increased attacks inside Russia in recent weeks. Ukrainian cities have meanwhile been recently pounded with drones and missiles by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the skies of Ukraine remained relatively quiet and no major air raids were reported. One person was killed in Russian drone attacks and four others were wounded in Kyiv on Tuesday, as per Ukrainian officials.</p>

<p>The attacks in Russia took place as Ukraine prepares a counter-offensive to push back the Russian forces out of the occupied territories since a full-scale invasion has been launched by Moscow in Kyiv in February 2022.</p>

<p>"A Ukrainian artillery strike wounded at least one person in the Russian town of Shebekino, about 7 km (4.5 miles) north of the border with Ukraine's Kharkiv region," stated regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<h2><strong>Drone war&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday were struck by Ukrainian drones, claimed Russia in what was once considered as the capital's most dangerous attack since World War Two, &nbsp;while Kyiv also faced an attack for the third time in 24 hours.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv pledges swift action against Russian strikes</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-pledges-swift-action-against-russian-strikes-598428/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The aerial strikes by both countries have further escalated amid a stalemate on the ground as Russian forces remain entrenched along Ukraine's extended line in the east and south.</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry stated that eight drones were sent by Kyiv to Moscow, which targeted civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak denied Kyiv's direct involvement but said "we are pleased to watch events" and predicted more such strikes.</p>

<h2><strong>Five killed in strike on Luhansk</strong></h2>

<p>Russian administrators stated that at least five people were killed and 19 others wounded in a night bombardment in Luhansk region of Ukraine as they&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;the Ukrainian Army for the attack.</p>

<p>"The strike on the village of Karpaty by Ukrainian armed groups... killed five and wounded 19 -- and was carried out by HIMARS systems according to preliminary information," stated Russian security authorities in the Luhansk region posted on Telegram.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A fire was sparked at an oil refinery located in southern Russia by a Ukrainian drone. The drone attack came as Ukraine carried out shelling for the third time in a Russian town which is close to the border, stated Russian officials on Wednesday.

A fire was sparked at an oil refinery located in southern Russia by a Ukrainian drone. The drone attack came as Ukraine carried out shelling for the third time in a Russian town which is close to the border, stated Russian officials on Wednesday. They said vehicles were set afire and buildings were damaged in the attack. The statement was made by the governor of Russia's Krasnodar region, a day after Ukraine was accused by Russia of carrying out a drone attack in Moscow. The governor added that the drone had set the Afipsky oil refinery ablaze. On the Telegram messaging app, Governor Veniamin Kondratyev said that the officials soon extinguished the fire and there were no casualties. ALSO READ | Russia blames Ukraine for massive drone attack on Moscow, Kyiv denies involvement The Afipsky refinery is close to the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, which is near another refinery that had been attacked various times this month. No immediate information was released about who launched the drone, but Kyiv was accused by Moscow of carrying out increased attacks inside Russia in recent weeks. Ukrainian cities have meanwhile been recently pounded with drones and missiles by Russia. On Tuesday, the skies of Ukraine remained relatively quiet and no major air raids were reported. One person was killed in Russian drone attacks and four others were wounded in Kyiv on Tuesday, as per Ukrainian officials. The attacks in Russia took place as Ukraine prepares a counter-offensive to push back the Russian forces out of the occupied territories since a full-scale invasion has been launched by Moscow in Kyiv in February 2022. "A Ukrainian artillery strike wounded at least one person in the Russian town of Shebekino, about 7 km (4.5 miles) north of the border with Ukraine's Kharkiv region," stated regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on the Telegram messaging app. Drone war The wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday were struck by Ukrainian drones, claimed Russia in what was once considered as the capital's most dangerous attack since World War Two, while Kyiv also faced an attack for the third time in 24 hours. WATCH | Kyiv pledges swift action against Russian strikes The aerial strikes by both countries have further escalated amid a stalemate on the ground as Russian forces remain entrenched along Ukraine's extended line in the east and south. The Russian defence ministry stated that eight drones were sent by Kyiv to Moscow, which targeted civilians. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak denied Kyiv's direct involvement but said "we are pleased to watch events" and predicted more such strikes. Five killed in strike on Luhansk Russian administrators stated that at least five people were killed and 19 others wounded in a night bombardment in Luhansk region of Ukraine as they blamed the Ukrainian Army for the attack. "The strike on the village of Karpaty by Ukrainian armed groups... killed five and wounded 19 -- and was carried out by HIMARS systems according to preliminary information," stated Russian security authorities in the Luhansk region posted on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian drone attack sets Russian refinery ablaze, five killed in strike on Luhansk

In Pics | The top 7 airlines in the world

<p>North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un had embarked on a big exercise to seal its borders with Russia and China, cutting off routes which were being used by defectors and smugglers, in 2020 when the world was battling the Covid pandemic.<br />
<br />
Since then hundreds of kilometres of upgraded or new border fences, guard posts and walls have been built by Pyongyang, as per commercial satellite imagery.<br />
<br />
These steps helped the government in tightening the flow of goods and information in the country and also ensured that foreign elements are kept out and its people remain inside, according to a report published by Reuters.<br />
<br />
"The traditional North Korea-China route is now effectively over, unless there is a major change in the situation," stated Kim, who is a South Korean pastor. Kim along with others has helped North Koreans defect.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-criticises-sinister-south-as-live-fire-exercises-with-us-start-596632">North Korea criticises ‘sinister’ South as live-fire exercises with US start</a></p>

<p>Last year, only 67 defectors could reach South Korea compared to 1,047 in 2019, as per official data. There was a decline in the figure even before the pandemic because of tighter restrictions in China, the route towards which is preferred by defectors.</p>

<h2><strong>How border walls helped North Korea keep out coronavirus and 'alien things'?</strong></h2>

<p>The government of North Korea and state media have spoken little about the construction of the wall at the border. However, the country's official organisations have noted that the security was beefed up to ensure that coronavirus and other "alien things" stay out of the country.<br />
<br />
In his speech in which Kim Jong Un&nbsp;declared victory over COVID-19, he had asked officials to "ensure perfection" of an "overall multiple blockade wall in the border, frontline and coast areas and in the seas and air".<br />
<br />
The sealing of the border will have a lasting effect on the nascent mercantile class of North Korea and over towns where thriving informal trade earlier offered the opportunity to people to make their own way, stated Benjamin Katzeff Silberstein, a non-resident fellow at the US-based Stimson Center who researches on the economy of North Korea.<br />
<br />
Those towns "benefited from formal and informal trade since the famine in the 1990s, but really don't have many other economic advantages," he stated. "So the crackdowns are hitting two vulnerable groups, women and the population of the geographic periphery,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why is North Korea constructing a satellite launch pad with 'new urgency'?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-north-korea-constructing-a-satellite-launch-pad-with-new-urgency-596859/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Are these border walls choking people's lifelines?</strong></h2>

<p>Google Earth Pro satellite imagery of the northern frontier of North Korea, which was collected at various time intervals from 2019 and early 2023, was examined by Reuters and Middlebury.<br />
<br />
Middlebury research associate Dave Schmerler said that they could see new or expanded security infrastructure along at least 489 km of the border, which included the robust concrete wall, simple wire fencing, additional guard posts and double fencing.<br />
<br />
He added that apparent changes were also seen in other areas, however, limitations in the imagery stopped them from reaching conclusive determinations.<br />
<br />
Schmerler stated that many installations could be seen around populated areas that lacked natural obstacles like mountains. However, they also noticed new features in agricultural, flat areas near the country's northeastern border.<br />
<br />
"Those areas don't necessarily have larger city or village infrastructure but lack the natural boundaries that could act as a barrier from getting into or leaving the country," added Schmerler.<br />
<br />
Human rights activists and defectors in China, who are involved in smuggling people or goods across the border, stated that the new security features have been choking vulnerable people's economic lifelines, closing their paths to escape the country that has an authoritarian regime and limiting access to North Korea to the outside information.<br />
<br />
One defector stated that the officials have placed security cameras at regular intervals and have installed multiple layers of fencing, which includes electric fencing and barbed wire.<br />
<br />
In a statement sent to Reuters, China's foreign ministry stated it was not aware of the situation, but added that "China and North Korea have been maintaining communication and working together to maintain the security and stability of the border".</p>

<h2><strong>Did North Korea use COVID-19 as an excuse to build border fences?</strong></h2>

<p>The government of North Korea gave&nbsp;orders to border guards to immediately shoot anyone who is seen trying to cross, as per official notices issued by Chinese authorities in 2020, which were released to warn people about the risks involved.<br />
<br />
Human rights organisations have confirmed that the shooting orders still remain in effect.<br />
<br />
In December 2022, the US Treasury Department sanctioned North Korea's Border Guard General Bureau over human rights abuses, "including land mines and shoot-on-sight orders that have resulted in the deaths of numerous North Koreans".<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch's senior Korean researcher Lina Yoon said, "The North Korean government has been using COVID-19 as an excuse to build these new fences, guard posts and other infrastructure.”<br />
<br />
Sokeel Park, who is associated with Liberty – an organisation that works with defectors, stated that as the pandemic subsides, it may become harder for the government to justify the restrictions.<br />
<br />
"It's all the more reason for the international community to step up efforts to support North Korean rights," he added.</p>

<main>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un had embarked on a big exercise to seal its borders with Russia and China, cutting off routes which were being used by defectors and smugglers, in 2020 when the world was battling the Covid pandemic.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un had embarked on a big exercise to seal its borders with Russia and China, cutting off routes which were being used by defectors and smugglers, in 2020 when the world was battling the Covid pandemic. Since then hundreds of kilometres of upgraded or new border fences, guard posts and walls have been built by Pyongyang, as per commercial satellite imagery. These steps helped the government in tightening the flow of goods and information in the country and also ensured that foreign elements are kept out and its people remain inside, according to a report published by Reuters. "The traditional North Korea-China route is now effectively over, unless there is a major change in the situation," stated Kim, who is a South Korean pastor. Kim along with others has helped North Koreans defect. ALSO READ | North Korea criticises ‘sinister’ South as live-fire exercises with US start Last year, only 67 defectors could reach South Korea compared to 1,047 in 2019, as per official data. There was a decline in the figure even before the pandemic because of tighter restrictions in China, the route towards which is preferred by defectors. How border walls helped North Korea keep out coronavirus and 'alien things'? The government of North Korea and state media have spoken little about the construction of the wall at the border. However, the country's official organisations have noted that the security was beefed up to ensure that coronavirus and other "alien things" stay out of the country. In his speech in which Kim Jong Un declared victory over COVID-19, he had asked officials to "ensure perfection" of an "overall multiple blockade wall in the border, frontline and coast areas and in the seas and air". The sealing of the border will have a lasting effect on the nascent mercantile class of North Korea and over towns where thriving informal trade earlier offered the opportunity to people to make their own way, stated Benjamin Katzeff Silberstein, a non-resident fellow at the US-based Stimson Center who researches on the economy of North Korea. Those towns "benefited from formal and informal trade since the famine in the 1990s, but really don't have many other economic advantages," he stated. "So the crackdowns are hitting two vulnerable groups, women and the population of the geographic periphery,” he added. WATCH | Why is North Korea constructing a satellite launch pad with 'new urgency'? Are these border walls choking people's lifelines? Google Earth Pro satellite imagery of the northern frontier of North Korea, which was collected at various time intervals from 2019 and early 2023, was examined by Reuters and Middlebury. Middlebury research associate Dave Schmerler said that they could see new or expanded security infrastructure along at least 489 km of the border, which included the robust concrete wall, simple wire fencing, additional guard posts and double fencing. He added that apparent changes were also seen in other areas, however, limitations in the imagery stopped them from reaching conclusive determinations. Schmerler stated that many installations could be seen around populated areas that lacked natural obstacles like mountains. However, they also noticed new features in agricultural, flat areas near the country's northeastern border. "Those areas don't necessarily have larger city or village infrastructure but lack the natural boundaries that could act as a barrier from getting into or leaving the country," added Schmerler. Human rights activists and defectors in China, who are involved in smuggling people or goods across the border, stated that the new security features have been choking vulnerable people's economic lifelines, closing their paths to escape the country that has an authoritarian regime and limiting access to North Korea to the outside information. One defector stated that the officials have placed security cameras at regular intervals and have installed multiple layers of fencing, which includes electric fencing and barbed wire. In a statement sent to Reuters, China's foreign ministry stated it was not aware of the situation, but added that "China and North Korea have been maintaining communication and working together to maintain the security and stability of the border". Did North Korea use COVID-19 as an excuse to build border fences? The government of North Korea gave orders to border guards to immediately shoot anyone who is seen trying to cross, as per official notices issued by Chinese authorities in 2020, which were released to warn people about the risks involved. Human rights organisations have confirmed that the shooting orders still remain in effect. In December 2022, the US Treasury Department sanctioned North Korea's Border Guard General Bureau over human rights abuses, "including land mines and shoot-on-sight orders that have resulted in the deaths of numerous North Koreans". Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch's senior Korean researcher Lina Yoon said, "The North Korean government has been using COVID-19 as an excuse to build these new fences, guard posts and other infrastructure.” Sokeel Park, who is associated with Liberty – an organisation that works with defectors, stated that as the pandemic subsides, it may become harder for the government to justify the restrictions. "It's all the more reason for the international community to step up efforts to support North Korean rights," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | When world was battling pandemic, why North Korea was busy sealing borders with China and Russia

<p>Scientists have warned that the ability of humans to see the cosmos in the night sky may vanish&nbsp;in just 20 years because of light pollution.<br />
<br />
“The night sky is part of our environment and it would be a major deprivation if the next generation never got to see it, just as it would be if they never saw a bird’s nest,” said Martin Rees, the British astronomer royal, while speaking to The Guardian.<br />
<br />
“You don’t need to be an astronomer to care about this. I am not an ornithologist but if there were no songbirds in my garden, I’d feel impoverished,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-spacecraft-discovers-how-jupiters-lightning-shares-similarity-with-earths-596297">NASA spacecraft discovers how Jupiter's lightning shares similarity with Earth's</a><br />
<br />
In the last few years, the issue of light pollution has rapidly worsened, especially since 2016 when it was reported by astronomers that the Milky Way is no longer visible to almost a third of the population, as per Rees.<br />
<br />
Scientists stated that the increasing light pollution is now brightening up the night sky at a rate of around 10 per cent per year.</p>

<h2><strong>No cosmos for future generations</strong></h2>

<p>A child who is born in a place where 250 stars are currently visible in the night sky would be able to see only 100 by the time they reach the age of 18, stated Christopher Kyba, of the German Centre for Geosciences.<br />
<br />
“A couple of generations ago, people would have been confronted regularly with this glittering vision of the cosmos – but what was formerly universal is now extremely rare. Only the world’s richest people, and some of the poorest, experience that anymore. For everybody else, it’s more or less gone,” Kyba added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;IIST: WION reports from Indian institute of space science and technology</strong></p>

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<p><br />
He further argued that the introduction of some changes to lighting can make a considerable improvement. These steps would include shielding outdoor lights and pointing them downwards, limiting the brightness of lights, and ensuring that they are not predominantly blue-white but have red and orange components. “Measures like that would have an enormous impact,” he stated.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prof Robert Fosbury, of the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London (UCL) claimed that bluish emissions of LEDs entirely lack any red or near-infrared light. “We are becoming starved of red and infra-red light and that has serious implications,” he stated.<br />
<br />
“When reddish light shines on our bodies, it stimulates mechanisms including those that break down high levels of sugar in the blood or boost melatonin production. Since the introduction of fluorescent lighting and later LEDs, that part of the spectrum has been removed from artificial light and I think it is playing a part in the waves of obesity and the rise&nbsp;in diabetes cases we see today,” Fosbury added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Scientists have warned that the ability of humans to see the cosmos in the night sky may vanish in just 20 years because of light pollution. “The night sky is part of our environment and it would be a major deprivation if the next generation never got to see it, just as it would be if they never saw a bird’s nest,” said Martin Rees, the British astronomer royal, while speaking to The Guardian.

Scientists have warned that the ability of humans to see the cosmos in the night sky may vanish in just 20 years because of light pollution. “The night sky is part of our environment and it would be a major deprivation if the next generation never got to see it, just as it would be if they never saw a bird’s nest,” said Martin Rees, the British astronomer royal, while speaking to The Guardian. “You don’t need to be an astronomer to care about this. I am not an ornithologist but if there were no songbirds in my garden, I’d feel impoverished,” he added. ALSO READ | NASA spacecraft discovers how Jupiter's lightning shares similarity with Earth's In the last few years, the issue of light pollution has rapidly worsened, especially since 2016 when it was reported by astronomers that the Milky Way is no longer visible to almost a third of the population, as per Rees. Scientists stated that the increasing light pollution is now brightening up the night sky at a rate of around 10 per cent per year. No cosmos for future generations A child who is born in a place where 250 stars are currently visible in the night sky would be able to see only 100 by the time they reach the age of 18, stated Christopher Kyba, of the German Centre for Geosciences. “A couple of generations ago, people would have been confronted regularly with this glittering vision of the cosmos – but what was formerly universal is now extremely rare. Only the world’s richest people, and some of the poorest, experience that anymore. For everybody else, it’s more or less gone,” Kyba added. WATCH | IIST: WION reports from Indian institute of space science and technology He further argued that the introduction of some changes to lighting can make a considerable improvement. These steps would include shielding outdoor lights and pointing them downwards, limiting the brightness of lights, and ensuring that they are not predominantly blue-white but have red and orange components. “Measures like that would have an enormous impact,” he stated. Meanwhile, Prof Robert Fosbury, of the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London (UCL) claimed that bluish emissions of LEDs entirely lack any red or near-infrared light. “We are becoming starved of red and infra-red light and that has serious implications,” he stated. “When reddish light shines on our bodies, it stimulates mechanisms including those that break down high levels of sugar in the blood or boost melatonin production. Since the introduction of fluorescent lighting and later LEDs, that part of the spectrum has been removed from artificial light and I think it is playing a part in the waves of obesity and the rise in diabetes cases we see today,” Fosbury added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Stars to become invisible to our eyes in two decades due to light pollution, warn scientists

<p>A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.<br />
<br />
The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”.<br />
<br />
The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India.<br />
<br />
The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi</a></p>

<p>“Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.”<br />
<br />
Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle.<br />
<br />
“We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>India's addition to ensure&nbsp;seamless intelligence sharing</strong></h2>

<p>The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues</strong></p>

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<p>“The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated.<br />
<br />
India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.

A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US. The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India. The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi. ALSO READ | India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi “Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday. According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.” Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle. “We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added. India's addition to ensure seamless intelligence sharing The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay. WATCH | India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues “The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated. India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US House panel recommends inclusion of India in NATO Plus to deter China

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital.<br />
<br />
The new parliament, which is a part of the government's ambitious Central Vista project, has been constructed in a span of two years by Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group company.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi unveils plaque; dedicates new Parliament building to nation<br />
<br />
Read <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> Story | <a href="https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r">https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewParliamentBuilding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewParliamentBuilding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewParliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewParliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/cRs8VM1snJ">pic.twitter.com/cRs8VM1snJ</a></p>
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) <a href="https://twitter.com/ani_digital/status/1662662043114041345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM installs 'Sengol' in Lok Sabha</strong></h2>

<p>Before the inauguration of the parliament, PM Modi attended an early morning ‘havan’ and multi-faith or 'sarv-dharma' prayers. The prayer meeting was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, union ministers and CMs of different states.<br />
<br />
The prime minister also performed "Ganapati Homam" to invoke Gods and seek their blessings before the parliament building's inauguration. Adheenams from Tamil Nadu's different mutts also arrived at the new parliament building to attend the inaugural ceremony.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-glimpses-of-indias-new-parliament-set-to-be-inaugurated-on-may-28-597151">In Pics | Glimpses of India's new parliament inaugurated by PM Modi</a></p>

<p>The prime minister prostrated before the 'Sengol' to pay&nbsp;his respects. The much-talked-about 'Sengol' is a historical sceptre whose name originates from the Tamil word "semmai" which means righteousness.<br />
<br />
PM Modi installed the 'Sengol' or sceptre in the new parliament building's Lok Sabha chamber, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the prime minister before it was installed in the new parliament.<br />
<br />
India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British.<br />
<br />
The prime minister also met the workers who were involved in the construction of the new parliament building and felicitated them.<br />
<br />
On Saturday, the prime minister had received blessings from Adheenams, spiritual leaders from Tamil Nadu, at his residence.</p>

<p>After the inauguration, PM Modi tweeted, "As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress. <a href="https://t.co/zzGuRoHrUS">pic.twitter.com/zzGuRoHrUS</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1662684955787542528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>All about India's new parliament building</strong></h2>

<p>The new parliament building will have more seating capacity. In the Lok Sabha, there will be seats for 888 MPs which was earlier only for 552 MPs and in Rajya Sabha, the seating capacity enhanced from 245 to 384.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India's new Parliament: PM Modi inaugurates the new building | Key features of the new Parliament</strong></p>

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<p>The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres.<br />
<br />
If a joint session is held, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,272 members. In the rest of the building, there will be four floors with offices of ministers and committee rooms.<br />
<br />
The new parliament building has been constructed ensuring that there is the latest communications technology, efficient space utilisation, and secure infrastructure which can meet the demand for workspaces.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital. The new parliament, which is a part of the government's ambitious Central Vista project, has been constructed in a span of two years by Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group company. PM Modi unveils plaque; dedicates new Parliament building to nation Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r#PMModi #NewParliamentBuilding #NewParliament pic.twitter.com/cRs8VM1snJ — ANI Digital (@ani_digital) May 28, 2023 × PM installs 'Sengol' in Lok Sabha Before the inauguration of the parliament, PM Modi attended an early morning ‘havan’ and multi-faith or 'sarv-dharma' prayers. The prayer meeting was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, union ministers and CMs of different states. The prime minister also performed "Ganapati Homam" to invoke Gods and seek their blessings before the parliament building's inauguration. Adheenams from Tamil Nadu's different mutts also arrived at the new parliament building to attend the inaugural ceremony. ALSO READ | In Pics | Glimpses of India's new parliament inaugurated by PM Modi The prime minister prostrated before the 'Sengol' to pay his respects. The much-talked-about 'Sengol' is a historical sceptre whose name originates from the Tamil word "semmai" which means righteousness. PM Modi installed the 'Sengol' or sceptre in the new parliament building's Lok Sabha chamber, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the prime minister before it was installed in the new parliament. India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British. The prime minister also met the workers who were involved in the construction of the new parliament building and felicitated them. On Saturday, the prime minister had received blessings from Adheenams, spiritual leaders from Tamil Nadu, at his residence. After the inauguration, PM Modi tweeted, "As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress." As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress. pic.twitter.com/zzGuRoHrUS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2023 × All about India's new parliament building The new parliament building will have more seating capacity. In the Lok Sabha, there will be seats for 888 MPs which was earlier only for 552 MPs and in Rajya Sabha, the seating capacity enhanced from 245 to 384. WATCH | India's new Parliament: PM Modi inaugurates the new building | Key features of the new Parliament The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres. If a joint session is held, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,272 members. In the rest of the building, there will be four floors with offices of ministers and committee rooms. The new parliament building has been constructed ensuring that there is the latest communications technology, efficient space utilisation, and secure infrastructure which can meet the demand for workspaces. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Modi inaugurates new parliament, installs ‘Sengol’ in Lok Sabha

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”.<br />
<br />
The prime minister appealed to the citizens to repost the video along with their own voice-over which conveys the thoughts of people about the new structure that is set to replace the iconic circular parliament of India. He further appealed to people to use ‘#MyParliamentMyPride’ while re-posting the videos.<br />
<br />
“The new parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request&nbsp;— share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride,” wrote PM Modi on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The new Parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request- share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-Tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyParliamentMyPride?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyParliamentMyPride</a>. <a href="https://t.co/yEt4F38e8E">pic.twitter.com/yEt4F38e8E</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1662069125257269252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video footage revealed a structure which has a remarkable blend of traditional Indian architectural elements and modernity.<br />
<br />
The design further incorporated elements from culture and Indian history which appeared to be blending seamlessly with contemporary aesthetics. The exterior features of the building boasted intricate detailing, which included patterns and ornate carvings that represent the rich artistic heritage of India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-sc-quashes-plea-seeking-inauguration-of-new-parliament-building-by-president-instead-of-pm-596700">Indian SC quashes plea seeking inauguration of new Parliament building by President instead of PM</a></p>

<p>The new parliament complex's Lok Sabha chamber will have 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha chamber 384 seats. Unlike the current building, the new parliament will not have a central hall.<br />
<br />
In case of a joint session, the Lok Sabha chamber will be able to include 1,272 members. There will be four floors in the rest of the building with offices of ministers and committee rooms.</p>

<h2><strong>Ministers share video, express pride over new complex</strong></h2>

<p>The video was also shared on social media with the hashtag '#MyParliamentMyPride' by many leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party which included chief ministers and union ministers.<br />
<br />
“My heart swells with pride that India has it's own built monumental Parliament Building completed in record time due to unwavering commitment of Prime Minister @narendramodi ji,” tweeted Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate new parliament on May 28</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The new parliament building, and its grandeur, stand tall as a symbol of India's power &amp; pride. Posterity shall forever be indebted to you Hon Prime Minister Sir, for giving us this monumental icon, India's shining temple of democracy; every brick of it signifying the resolve of her 1.4 billion people and their New India.”<br />
<br />
Sharing the video Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted: “Behold the astonishing glimpse of the magnificent New Parliament building, a testament to India's progressive vision! A symbol of strength, unity, and democracy, this architectural marvel stands tall to redefine India's future. Join us in celebrating India's journey towards a brighter and better tomorrow.”</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”. The prime minister appealed to the citizens to repost the video along with their own voice-over which conveys the thoughts of people about the new structure that is set to replace the iconic circular parliament of India. He further appealed to people to use ‘#MyParliamentMyPride’ while re-posting the videos. “The new parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request — share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride,” wrote PM Modi on Twitter. The new Parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request- share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-Tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride. pic.twitter.com/yEt4F38e8E — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2023 × The video footage revealed a structure which has a remarkable blend of traditional Indian architectural elements and modernity. The design further incorporated elements from culture and Indian history which appeared to be blending seamlessly with contemporary aesthetics. The exterior features of the building boasted intricate detailing, which included patterns and ornate carvings that represent the rich artistic heritage of India. ALSO READ | Indian SC quashes plea seeking inauguration of new Parliament building by President instead of PM The new parliament complex's Lok Sabha chamber will have 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha chamber 384 seats. Unlike the current building, the new parliament will not have a central hall. In case of a joint session, the Lok Sabha chamber will be able to include 1,272 members. There will be four floors in the rest of the building with offices of ministers and committee rooms. Ministers share video, express pride over new complex The video was also shared on social media with the hashtag '#MyParliamentMyPride' by many leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party which included chief ministers and union ministers. “My heart swells with pride that India has it's own built monumental Parliament Building completed in record time due to unwavering commitment of Prime Minister @narendramodi ji,” tweeted Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. WATCH | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate new parliament on May 28 Meanwhile, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The new parliament building, and its grandeur, stand tall as a symbol of India's power & pride. Posterity shall forever be indebted to you Hon Prime Minister Sir, for giving us this monumental icon, India's shining temple of democracy; every brick of it signifying the resolve of her 1.4 billion people and their New India.” Sharing the video Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted: “Behold the astonishing glimpse of the magnificent New Parliament building, a testament to India's progressive vision! A symbol of strength, unity, and democracy, this architectural marvel stands tall to redefine India's future. Join us in celebrating India's journey towards a brighter and better tomorrow.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch | India’s PM Modi drops video of new parliament building ahead of its inauguration

In Pics | Glimpses of India's new parliament inaugurated by PM Modi

<p>United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare.&nbsp;On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire.<br />
<br />
The negotiators agreed to cap the non-defence discretionary spending at 2023 levels for one year and increase it by 1% in 2025, said a source familiar with the deal, further adding that&nbsp;the agreement includes a two-year appropriations deal and a two-year debt limit extension, effectively resolving the issue until after the 2024 election. said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Congress to vote on debt ceiling bill Wednesday: McCarthy</strong></h2>

<p>Confirming the striking of a deal in principle in ongoing negotiations between Republicans and the White House to increase the debt ceiling, Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said that Congress is likely to vote on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
"I just got off the phone with the president a bit ago," tweeted McCarthy on Saturday evening. "After he wasted time and refused to negotiate for months, we've come to an agreement in principle that is worthy of the American people,” he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Republicans are poised to deliver big, consequential change in Washington. Soon, we will vote for a responsible debt limit agreement that stops Democrats' reckless spending, claws back unspent COVID funds, blocks Biden's new tax schemes, &amp; much, much more <a href="https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM">https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM</a></p>
— Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerMcCarthy/status/1662627260401356800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>McCarthy said that he will have another round of talks with President Biden on Sunday and oversee the final draft of the bill, further stating that the House of Representatives will be "voting on it on Wednesday."</p>

<h2><strong>'Compromise' debt bill will avert 'catastrophic default', says Biden</strong></h2>

<p>President Biden said that the draft bill finalised on Saturday will increase the US debt ceiling and stop a "catastrophic default”.<br />
<br />
The Democrat stated the bill was a "compromise, which means not everyone gets what they want."<br />
<br />
However, "it prevents what could have been a catastrophic default and would have led to an economic recession, retirement accounts devastated, and millions of jobs lost," he added in a statement.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earlier this evening, Speaker McCarthy and I reached a budget agreement in principle.<br />
<br />
It is an important step forward that reduces spending while protecting critical programs for working people and growing the economy for everyone. And, the agreement protects my and…</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1662639703764484096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The end of weeks of ongoing negotiations in Congress and the White House will help the government to add to its $31 trillion-plus debt and avert a downgraded credit rating, further decreasing the looming threat of recession.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Party leaders are now in a race against time to finalise the agreement through Congress as hard-right Republicans and Democratic progressives are crying foul over concessions made to finalise the deal.</p>

<p>US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen had earlier issued a warning of a possible default on June 1 if the debt ceiling is not raised by Congress, however, the lawmakers received breathing room on Friday when the deadline was updated by her to June 5.</p>

<p>Even with the updated deadline, Congress needs to clear the legislation much more quickly than the time stipulated for even the most uncontroversial bills.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare.

United States President Joe Biden struck a deal ‘in principle’ with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare. On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire. The negotiators agreed to cap the non-defence discretionary spending at 2023 levels for one year and increase it by 1% in 2025, said a source familiar with the deal, further adding that the agreement includes a two-year appropriations deal and a two-year debt limit extension, effectively resolving the issue until after the 2024 election. said. Congress to vote on debt ceiling bill Wednesday: McCarthy Confirming the striking of a deal in principle in ongoing negotiations between Republicans and the White House to increase the debt ceiling, Republican leader Kevin McCarthy said that Congress is likely to vote on Wednesday. "I just got off the phone with the president a bit ago," tweeted McCarthy on Saturday evening. "After he wasted time and refused to negotiate for months, we've come to an agreement in principle that is worthy of the American people,” he added. Republicans are poised to deliver big, consequential change in Washington. Soon, we will vote for a responsible debt limit agreement that stops Democrats' reckless spending, claws back unspent COVID funds, blocks Biden's new tax schemes, & much, much more https://t.co/TQ7CblFsaM — Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) May 28, 2023 × McCarthy said that he will have another round of talks with President Biden on Sunday and oversee the final draft of the bill, further stating that the House of Representatives will be "voting on it on Wednesday." 'Compromise' debt bill will avert 'catastrophic default', says Biden President Biden said that the draft bill finalised on Saturday will increase the US debt ceiling and stop a "catastrophic default”. The Democrat stated the bill was a "compromise, which means not everyone gets what they want." However, "it prevents what could have been a catastrophic default and would have led to an economic recession, retirement accounts devastated, and millions of jobs lost," he added in a statement. Earlier this evening, Speaker McCarthy and I reached a budget agreement in principle. It is an important step forward that reduces spending while protecting critical programs for working people and growing the economy for everyone. And, the agreement protects my and… — President Biden (@POTUS) May 28, 2023 × The end of weeks of ongoing negotiations in Congress and the White House will help the government to add to its $31 trillion-plus debt and avert a downgraded credit rating, further decreasing the looming threat of recession. Party leaders are now in a race against time to finalise the agreement through Congress as hard-right Republicans and Democratic progressives are crying foul over concessions made to finalise the deal. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen had earlier issued a warning of a possible default on June 1 if the debt ceiling is not raised by Congress, however, the lawmakers received breathing room on Friday when the deadline was updated by her to June 5. Even with the updated deadline, Congress needs to clear the legislation much more quickly than the time stipulated for even the most uncontroversial bills. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Biden, Republicans reach ‘in principle’ deal to avert catastrophic debt default

<p>Police arrested a 7-year-old child, who was later charged with first-degree arson, after he allegedly set his parents' house ablaze while they kept sleeping inside, reported CBS News. The incident was reported in Jackson County, which is around 40 miles northwest of Charleston.<br />
<br />
The Jackson County Sheriff's Department in West Virginia, US posted a picture of the home engulfed in fire on Facebook. In its post, the department stated that the child had set the house on fire intentionally while his parents were inside.<br />
<br />
Two people suffered minor burns in the house, but everyone present inside the home survived, stated the police. The child was taken into custody by the authorities and was charged with first-degree arson.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-arrest-parents-after-7-kids-discovered-living-with-caged-rats-faeces-597472">Police arrest parents after 7 kids discovered living with caged rats, faeces</a></p>

<p>Speaking about the incident, the police department wrote, ''This evening a 7-year-old juvenile is in custody and charged with 1st-degree arson after the family home was intentionally set ablaze with the parents asleep inside. Minor burn injuries occurred to two individuals, but everyone made it out of the home alive. No further information will be released regarding the investigation because of the sensitive nature of the case. Special thanks go out this evening to the responding volunteer fire departments and the WV State Fire Marshal's Office.''</p>

<h2><strong>Stepfather suspected of child abuse</strong></h2>

<p>The department next day stated that the stepfather of the child was arrested on suspicion of child abuse. According to a report published in USA Today, investigators believe&nbsp;the child, who committed arson, was being abused by the stepfather.<br />
<br />
In a Facebook post, the department wrote, ''Aaron Hufford, age 38 of Sandyville, WV and stepfather to the 7-year-old suspect from yesterday's 1st Degree Arson event, has been arrested for Child Abuse of the same 7-year-old. The thorough investigation continues with Detective Seth Fisher and Detective Gary Baldwin leading the way. No further details will be provided at this time.''<br />
<br />
Authorities stated that the information released by them is being limited ''because of the sensitive nature of the case.''<br />
<br />
In West Virginia, police can levy charges against children by criminal complaint or by citation, but the rules for arresting juveniles differ from state to state.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Serbia: 8 dead, 13 injured in second mass shooting in two days | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>In 2022, legislation was signed into law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, which prevents children, who are under the age of 12, from facing prosecution and arrest for almost all crimes in the state.<br />
<br />
The arrests of children are not uncommon in the US. During the 2017-2018 school year, the police arrested more than 700 children in US elementary schools, according to an analysis of CBS News.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Police arrested a 7-year-old child, who was later charged with first-degree arson, after he allegedly set his parents' house ablaze while they kept sleeping inside, reported CBS News.

Police arrested a 7-year-old child, who was later charged with first-degree arson, after he allegedly set his parents' house ablaze while they kept sleeping inside, reported CBS News. The incident was reported in Jackson County, which is around 40 miles northwest of Charleston. The Jackson County Sheriff's Department in West Virginia, US posted a picture of the home engulfed in fire on Facebook. In its post, the department stated that the child had set the house on fire intentionally while his parents were inside. Two people suffered minor burns in the house, but everyone present inside the home survived, stated the police. The child was taken into custody by the authorities and was charged with first-degree arson. ALSO READ | Police arrest parents after 7 kids discovered living with caged rats, faeces Speaking about the incident, the police department wrote, ''This evening a 7-year-old juvenile is in custody and charged with 1st-degree arson after the family home was intentionally set ablaze with the parents asleep inside. Minor burn injuries occurred to two individuals, but everyone made it out of the home alive. No further information will be released regarding the investigation because of the sensitive nature of the case. Special thanks go out this evening to the responding volunteer fire departments and the WV State Fire Marshal's Office.'' Stepfather suspected of child abuse The department next day stated that the stepfather of the child was arrested on suspicion of child abuse. According to a report published in USA Today, investigators believe the child, who committed arson, was being abused by the stepfather. In a Facebook post, the department wrote, ''Aaron Hufford, age 38 of Sandyville, WV and stepfather to the 7-year-old suspect from yesterday's 1st Degree Arson event, has been arrested for Child Abuse of the same 7-year-old. The thorough investigation continues with Detective Seth Fisher and Detective Gary Baldwin leading the way. No further details will be provided at this time.'' Authorities stated that the information released by them is being limited ''because of the sensitive nature of the case.'' In West Virginia, police can levy charges against children by criminal complaint or by citation, but the rules for arresting juveniles differ from state to state. WATCH | Serbia: 8 dead, 13 injured in second mass shooting in two days | World News | WION In 2022, legislation was signed into law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, which prevents children, who are under the age of 12, from facing prosecution and arrest for almost all crimes in the state. The arrests of children are not uncommon in the US. During the 2017-2018 school year, the police arrested more than 700 children in US elementary schools, according to an analysis of CBS News. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: 7-year-old sets home on fire with parents sleeping inside, arrested

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