The death sentence appeal of one protester&nbsp;was accepted by the Iran's Supreme Court while&nbsp;it declined&nbsp;the appeal of another, the judiciary stated on Saturday.&nbsp;Initially, the court had stated that appeals by both the protesters have been accepted, however, later the judiciary's Mizan news agency, in a statement, said, "The public relations of the Supreme Court of Iran has corrected its news: 'The appeal of Mohammad Qabadloo has not been accepted/the ruling has been confirmed. Saman Seydi's appeal has been accepted by the Supreme Court."

Saman Seydi Yasin who raps about inequality, oppression and unemployment, had been accused of attempting to kill security forces, setting a rubbish bin on fire and shooting into the air thrice during anti-government protests.

Iran witnessed nationwide protests from mid-September after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in police custody after the morality police arrested her for failing to follow the mandatory dress code laws of the Islamic Republic.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-fearful-executions-will-increase-as-west-remains-preoccupied-with-the-holiday-season-546253">Iranians fearful executions will increase as West remains preoccupied with the holiday season</a>

Earlier this month, two protesters were hanged by Iran. One of them, 23-year-old Mohsen Shekari was held guilty of obstructing the main road in September and hurting the paramilitary Basij force member with a knife.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Majid Reza Rahnavard, who was held guilty of killing two Basij members, was hanged publicly from a construction crane.

According to Amnesty International, the death penalty is being sought for around 26 people by the Iranian authorities in what it said were "sham trials designed to intimidate those participating in the popular uprising that has rocked Iran". 
 
WATCH| WION Fineprint | Iran to execute footballer

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Qobadloo is facing charges of killing police personnel and hurting five others in the protests. Meanwhile, Yasin, a rapper who raps about unemployment, inequality and oppression, is charged with singing revolutionary songs and attempting to kill security forces and will now be retried.

Speaking about the situation in Iran, the rights group HRANA stated that the authorities have killed 506 protesters till Friday, which includes 69 minors.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The death sentence appeal of one protester was accepted by the Iran's Supreme Court while it declined the appeal of another, the judiciary stated on Saturday. Initially, the court had stated that appeals by both the protesters have been accepted, however, later the judiciary's Mizan news agency, in a statement, said, "The public relations of the Supreme Court of Iran has corrected its news: 'The appeal of Mohammad Qabadloo has not been accepted/the ruling has been confirmed.

The death sentence appeal of one protester was accepted by the Iran's Supreme Court while it declined the appeal of another, the judiciary stated on Saturday. Initially, the court had stated that appeals by both the protesters have been accepted, however, later the judiciary's Mizan news agency, in a statement, said, "The public relations of the Supreme Court of Iran has corrected its news: 'The appeal of Mohammad Qabadloo has not been accepted/the ruling has been confirmed. Saman Seydi's appeal has been accepted by the Supreme Court." Saman Seydi Yasin who raps about inequality, oppression and unemployment, had been accused of attempting to kill security forces, setting a rubbish bin on fire and shooting into the air thrice during anti-government protests. Iran witnessed nationwide protests from mid-September after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in police custody after the morality police arrested her for failing to follow the mandatory dress code laws of the Islamic Republic. ALSO READ | Iranians fearful executions will increase as West remains preoccupied with the holiday season Earlier this month, two protesters were hanged by Iran. One of them, 23-year-old Mohsen Shekari was held guilty of obstructing the main road in September and hurting the paramilitary Basij force member with a knife. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Majid Reza Rahnavard, who was held guilty of killing two Basij members, was hanged publicly from a construction crane. According to Amnesty International, the death penalty is being sought for around 26 people by the Iranian authorities in what it said were "sham trials designed to intimidate those participating in the popular uprising that has rocked Iran". WATCH| WION Fineprint | Iran to execute footballer Qobadloo is facing charges of killing police personnel and hurting five others in the protests. Meanwhile, Yasin, a rapper who raps about unemployment, inequality and oppression, is charged with singing revolutionary songs and attempting to kill security forces and will now be retried. Speaking about the situation in Iran, the rights group HRANA stated that the authorities have killed 506 protesters till Friday, which includes 69 minors. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Supreme Court upholds death sentence of one protester, accepts rapper Yasin’s appeal

The Libyan National Army of eastern commander Khalifa Haftar on Saturday made the announcement of “a final opportunity” to create a road map for conducting elections, a year after rival factions had given a nod to conducting the elections, Libyan al-Hadath TV reported.

A lot of Libyans believe that the country's political leaders are not willing to resolve the endless political deadlock because conducting elections can remove them all from power.

"The General Command (of LNA) announces a final opportunity through which it will draw a road map and hold elections," Haftar said, as quoted by the TV channel.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lockerbie-bombing-suspect-appears-in-court-prosecution-seeks-life-in-prison-542505">Lockerbie bombing suspect appears in court, prosecution seeks life in prison</a>

Haftar was addressing Libyans in Benghazi's second-largest city, which is home to his forces on the independence's 71st anniversary.

After the ceasefire in 2020, the rival western and eastern sides decided to conduct elections on December 24, 2021, and a new unity government was installed with the aim of reunifying divided national institutions. However, the process did not work.

Since the NATO-backed 2011 uprising in which Muammar Gaddafi was ousted and which led to the divide between warring western and eastern factions in 2014, Libya has seen little peace in the country.

WATCH| Gravitas | Libya Presidential Election: A farce?

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After 2014, Haftar waged war against the west factions, which included a 14-month offensive for capturing Tripoli, which the internationally recognised government had repelled.&nbsp;

UN special envoy to Libya Abdoulaye Bathily, in a statement, had asked Libyan leaders "to agree on a solution based on a national compromise and avoid escalatory action that would threaten Libya’s already fragile stability and unity".

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Libyan National Army of eastern commander Khalifa Haftar on Saturday made the announcement of “a final opportunity” to create a road map for conducting elections, a year after rival factions had given a nod to conducting the elections, Libyan al-Hadath TV reported.

The Libyan National Army of eastern commander Khalifa Haftar on Saturday made the announcement of “a final opportunity” to create a road map for conducting elections, a year after rival factions had given a nod to conducting the elections, Libyan al-Hadath TV reported. A lot of Libyans believe that the country's political leaders are not willing to resolve the endless political deadlock because conducting elections can remove them all from power. "The General Command (of LNA) announces a final opportunity through which it will draw a road map and hold elections," Haftar said, as quoted by the TV channel. ALSO READ| Lockerbie bombing suspect appears in court, prosecution seeks life in prison Haftar was addressing Libyans in Benghazi's second-largest city, which is home to his forces on the independence's 71st anniversary. After the ceasefire in 2020, the rival western and eastern sides decided to conduct elections on December 24, 2021, and a new unity government was installed with the aim of reunifying divided national institutions. However, the process did not work. Since the NATO-backed 2011 uprising in which Muammar Gaddafi was ousted and which led to the divide between warring western and eastern factions in 2014, Libya has seen little peace in the country. WATCH| Gravitas | Libya Presidential Election: A farce? After 2014, Haftar waged war against the west factions, which included a 14-month offensive for capturing Tripoli, which the internationally recognised government had repelled. UN special envoy to Libya Abdoulaye Bathily, in a statement, had asked Libyan leaders "to agree on a solution based on a national compromise and avoid escalatory action that would threaten Libya’s already fragile stability and unity". (With inputs from agencies)

Eastern Libyan commander announces 'final opportunity' to draw a road map for elections

The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday.

According to the report, the increment in the budget will be announced by UK's Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt in the spring.&nbsp;

According to the newspaper, as per the estimate of military experts, the budget of the Ministry of Defence must increase from £48.6 billion to £50.1 billion in 2024-25 to avoid real-terms cut as the country's inflation continues to remain more than 10%.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-asks-a-homeless-man-if-he-works-in-business-labour-calls-it-excruciating-546365">UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating'</a>

In the autumn budget presented last month, Hunt said that the requirement of increasing the defence budget has been recognised by the government and confirmed that the budget will be maintained at least 2% of the gross domestic product in accordance with NATO.&nbsp;

"We have one of the largest defence budgets in Europe and in 2020 we announced the biggest increase to defence spending since the Cold War," said a government spokesperson while speaking to Reuters.

The spokesperson further stated that any increase in the defence budget will be considered in the next integrated review's part, which will also lay out the country's foreign policy, security and defence priorities in the spring.&nbsp;

WATCH| WION Dispatch: UK economy shrinking more than expected

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The announcement of an increase in defence spending will be seen as Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's victory, who was pushing hard for this in the past year.

Royal United Services Institute's deputy director-general Prof Malcolm Chalmers, while speaking to The Telegraph said, “It looks as if the Chancellor in his Spring Budget will provide enough money to maintain the core defence budget in real terms over the next two years. And indeed the Government has already committed to doing that next year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday.

The British government's defence spending is set to be increased by more than £1 billion ($1.21 billion) so that there is no real-terms cut in the next two years, reported the Telegraph newspaper on Saturday. According to the report, the increment in the budget will be announced by UK's Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt in the spring. According to the newspaper, as per the estimate of military experts, the budget of the Ministry of Defence must increase from £48.6 billion to £50.1 billion in 2024-25 to avoid real-terms cut as the country's inflation continues to remain more than 10%. ALSO READ| UK PM Rishi Sunak asks a homeless man if he works in 'business', Labour calls it 'excruciating' In the autumn budget presented last month, Hunt said that the requirement of increasing the defence budget has been recognised by the government and confirmed that the budget will be maintained at least 2% of the gross domestic product in accordance with NATO. "We have one of the largest defence budgets in Europe and in 2020 we announced the biggest increase to defence spending since the Cold War," said a government spokesperson while speaking to Reuters. The spokesperson further stated that any increase in the defence budget will be considered in the next integrated review's part, which will also lay out the country's foreign policy, security and defence priorities in the spring. WATCH| WION Dispatch: UK economy shrinking more than expected The announcement of an increase in defence spending will be seen as Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's victory, who was pushing hard for this in the past year. Royal United Services Institute's deputy director-general Prof Malcolm Chalmers, while speaking to The Telegraph said, “It looks as if the Chancellor in his Spring Budget will provide enough money to maintain the core defence budget in real terms over the next two years. And indeed the Government has already committed to doing that next year.” (With inputs from agencies)

Britain to increase defence spending by more than £1 billion: report

In another move to crackdown on the freedom of women, the Taliban-run government of Afghanistan on Saturday banned female employees from working in any foreign and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as stated in the letter of the economy ministry.&nbsp;

Economy ministry's spokesperson Abdulrahman Habib confirmed the letter in which it was stated that female employees are not permitted to work in NGOs until further notice because few employees have failed to adhere to the Islamic dress code for women, as interpreted by the Afghan administration.&nbsp;

There is no clarity on whether the order was also applicable to United Nations agencies, which are present in large numbers in Afghanistan.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus</a>

This move to curb the freedom of Afghan women comes days after universities were ordered by the Taliban government to stop the entry of women.&nbsp;

The move was condemned globally and led to a few protests in Afghanistan. It was reported that water cannon was used by Taliban security forces to disperse Afghan women who were protesting against the ban imposed on university education.&nbsp;

In major cities, Afghan women held demonstrations, which was a rare visual of protest since the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year.

WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban returns to archaic rules; woman flogged for shopping alone

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Meanwhile, G7 foreign ministers had stated the way women are being treated in Afghanistan by the Taliban may amount to "a crime against humanity", as they demanded that the ban imposed on women's education be reversed.

"Taliban policies designed to erase women from public life will have consequences for how our countries engage with the Taliban," the ministers had said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In another move to crackdown on the freedom of women, the Taliban-run government of Afghanistan on Saturday banned female employees from working in any foreign and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as stated in the letter of the economy ministry.

In another move to crackdown on the freedom of women, the Taliban-run government of Afghanistan on Saturday banned female employees from working in any foreign and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as stated in the letter of the economy ministry. Economy ministry's spokesperson Abdulrahman Habib confirmed the letter in which it was stated that female employees are not permitted to work in NGOs until further notice because few employees have failed to adhere to the Islamic dress code for women, as interpreted by the Afghan administration. There is no clarity on whether the order was also applicable to United Nations agencies, which are present in large numbers in Afghanistan. ALSO READ| Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus This move to curb the freedom of Afghan women comes days after universities were ordered by the Taliban government to stop the entry of women. The move was condemned globally and led to a few protests in Afghanistan. It was reported that water cannon was used by Taliban security forces to disperse Afghan women who were protesting against the ban imposed on university education. In major cities, Afghan women held demonstrations, which was a rare visual of protest since the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year. WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban returns to archaic rules; woman flogged for shopping alone Meanwhile, G7 foreign ministers had stated the way women are being treated in Afghanistan by the Taliban may amount to "a crime against humanity", as they demanded that the ban imposed on women's education be reversed. "Taliban policies designed to erase women from public life will have consequences for how our countries engage with the Taliban," the ministers had said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's war on women: Female employees banned from working in NGOs

Notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj, son of an Indian and Vietnamese couple, was deported to France on Friday after he was released from a prison in Nepal where he served his maximum sentence for committing a series of murders across Asia in the 1970s.&nbsp;The 78-year-old Sobhraj was released from Kathmandu’s Central Jail on Friday and taken away by the Department of Immigration in a police convoy, which was heavily guarded.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charles-sobhraj-the-bikini-killer-freed-from-nepali-prison-545816">Charles Sobhraj, the 'Bikini Killer', released from Nepali prison</a>

Nepal’s immigration department and the French embassy worked in collaboration to prepare Sobhraj’s travel documents. One of the serial killer’s lawyers, Sudesh Subedi, said that Sobhraj’s daughter and mother are waiting for him in Paris.

Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs’ joint secretary and spokesperson Fanindra Mani Pokharel said that Sobhraj will not be allowed to enter the country in the next 10 years.

"The home ministry has deported Charles Sobhraj, barring him from entering Nepal for the next 10 years," said Pokharel as quoted by The Kathmandu Post newspaper. Sobhraj boarded Qatar Airways flight QR647 to Doha from where he flew&nbsp;to Paris.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Charles Sobhraj released from prison after 19 years on 'age grounds'

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Earlier, Sobhraj’s lawyer Gopal Shivakoti Chintan said that the serial killer was taken by authorities to Tribhuvan International Airport from where he was to be deported to France.

According to media reports, Sobhraj was willing to stay in Nepal and had requested admission to the Gangalal Hospital to receive treatment for a period of 10 days.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the prison management authority to free Charles Sobhraj and deport him to France in a period of 15 days through immigration unless the killer is wanted in any other case.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj, son of an Indian and Vietnamese couple, was deported to France on Friday after he was released from a prison in Nepal where he served his maximum sentence for committing a series of murders across Asia in the 1970s.

Notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj, son of an Indian and Vietnamese couple, was deported to France on Friday after he was released from a prison in Nepal where he served his maximum sentence for committing a series of murders across Asia in the 1970s. The 78-year-old Sobhraj was released from Kathmandu’s Central Jail on Friday and taken away by the Department of Immigration in a police convoy, which was heavily guarded. ALSO READ| Charles Sobhraj, the 'Bikini Killer', released from Nepali prison Nepal’s immigration department and the French embassy worked in collaboration to prepare Sobhraj’s travel documents. One of the serial killer’s lawyers, Sudesh Subedi, said that Sobhraj’s daughter and mother are waiting for him in Paris. Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs’ joint secretary and spokesperson Fanindra Mani Pokharel said that Sobhraj will not be allowed to enter the country in the next 10 years. "The home ministry has deported Charles Sobhraj, barring him from entering Nepal for the next 10 years," said Pokharel as quoted by The Kathmandu Post newspaper. Sobhraj boarded Qatar Airways flight QR647 to Doha from where he flew to Paris. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Charles Sobhraj released from prison after 19 years on 'age grounds' Earlier, Sobhraj’s lawyer Gopal Shivakoti Chintan said that the serial killer was taken by authorities to Tribhuvan International Airport from where he was to be deported to France. According to media reports, Sobhraj was willing to stay in Nepal and had requested admission to the Gangalal Hospital to receive treatment for a period of 10 days. The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the prison management authority to free Charles Sobhraj and deport him to France in a period of 15 days through immigration unless the killer is wanted in any other case. (With inputs from agencies)

'The Serpent' returns: 'Bikini killer' Charles Sobhraj flown back to France after his release from Nepal jail

A feature which promoted safety resources, including suicide prevention hotlines, to users searching for certain content was restored by Twitter Inc after it faced heat over its removal from consumer safety groups and few users, says&nbsp;a Reuters report.&nbsp;A report was published by Reuters on Friday stating that Twitter had removed the feature a few days ago, as it cited two people who knew about the matter saying that the owner of the micro-blogging site Elon Musk had ordered the removal.

After the report was published, the removal of the feature was confirmed by the Twitter head of trust and safety Ella Irwin, who called it a temporary move.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-ordered-twitter-to-remove-suicide-prevention-prompts-546218">Elon Musk ordered Twitter to remove suicide-prevention prompts</a>

"We have been fixing and revamping our prompts. They were just temporarily removed while we do that. We expect to have them back up next week," said Irwin in an email sent to Reuters.

After 15 hours of publishing the report, Musk, who initially refused to comment on the matter, tweeted, "False, it is still there". Responding to the criticism received by Twitter users, he added, "Twitter doesn't prevent suicide”.&nbsp;

When a user searched for certain topics, the feature called #ThereIsHelp added a banner at the top of the search results. The feature provided contacts of support organisations related to HIV, child sexual exploitation, mental health, gender-based violence, vaccines, freedom of expression and natural disasters present in many countries.&nbsp;

The removal of the feature led to concerns being raised by some Twitter users and consumer safety groups about the well-being of users of the social media platform.

WATCH| Twitter Blue Tick Relaunched: Elon Musk plans to roll out gold and grey ticks next Friday

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Eirliani Abdul Rahman, who was part of Twitter's dissolved content advisory group, said that the removal of #ThereIsHelp was "extremely disconcerting and profoundly disturbing".

Even though it was removed temporarily to bring in improvements, "normally you would be working on it in parallel, not removing it," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A feature which promoted safety resources, including suicide prevention hotlines, to users searching for certain content was restored by Twitter Inc after it faced heat over its removal from consumer safety groups and few users, says a Reuters report.

A feature which promoted safety resources, including suicide prevention hotlines, to users searching for certain content was restored by Twitter Inc after it faced heat over its removal from consumer safety groups and few users, says a Reuters report. A report was published by Reuters on Friday stating that Twitter had removed the feature a few days ago, as it cited two people who knew about the matter saying that the owner of the micro-blogging site Elon Musk had ordered the removal. After the report was published, the removal of the feature was confirmed by the Twitter head of trust and safety Ella Irwin, who called it a temporary move. ALSO READ| Elon Musk ordered Twitter to remove suicide-prevention prompts "We have been fixing and revamping our prompts. They were just temporarily removed while we do that. We expect to have them back up next week," said Irwin in an email sent to Reuters. After 15 hours of publishing the report, Musk, who initially refused to comment on the matter, tweeted, "False, it is still there". Responding to the criticism received by Twitter users, he added, "Twitter doesn't prevent suicide”. When a user searched for certain topics, the feature called #ThereIsHelp added a banner at the top of the search results. The feature provided contacts of support organisations related to HIV, child sexual exploitation, mental health, gender-based violence, vaccines, freedom of expression and natural disasters present in many countries. The removal of the feature led to concerns being raised by some Twitter users and consumer safety groups about the well-being of users of the social media platform. WATCH| Twitter Blue Tick Relaunched: Elon Musk plans to roll out gold and grey ticks next Friday Eirliani Abdul Rahman, who was part of Twitter's dissolved content advisory group, said that the removal of #ThereIsHelp was "extremely disconcerting and profoundly disturbing". Even though it was removed temporarily to bring in improvements, "normally you would be working on it in parallel, not removing it," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter restores feature promoting hotlines for suicide prevention: report

In the backdrop of the Chinese government's accelerated unwinding of tough Covid-19 rules which had stunted economic growth, Hong Kong is planning to re-open its borders with Beijing from mid-January, said city Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday.&nbsp;While addressing a press meet&nbsp;at the Hong Kong airport after returning from a trip to China, Lee said that the city will "gradually, orderly, and fully" be re-opened so that the border can attain normalcy like it was before the outbreak of coronavirus.

"Our goal is to quickly come to a consensus with the central government, submit our plan to the central government for review and execute on the plan before mid-January," Lee said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-announces-further-easing-of-covid-19-curbs-544713">Hong Kong announces further easing of COVID-19 curbs</a>

“Hong Kong authorities will work with the governments of neighbouring Shenzhen city and Guangdong province to manage the flow of people crossing the border,” he added.

The authorities imposed restrictions on travelling across the border in early 2020. The border re-opening was postponed many times because of outbreaks in mainland China or Hong Kong.&nbsp;

China and Hong Kong have been lagging extremely behind other countries in easing curbs related to coronavirus. People living in Hong Kong's Chinese special administrative region had access to mainland China only through the airport of the city or two checkpoints — the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge or Shenzhen Bay.

WATCH| WION Business News | Hong Kong's property vacancies hit record

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According to local media, the authorities are preparing for the re-opening of the border which includes the deployment of officers in huge numbers from the custom department of the city and police services, local media reported.

On December 12, the government of Hong Kong said that cross-border truck drivers were permitted by the mainland authorities to collect and deliver goods directly to their designated addresses without using the checkpoints.

Since mid-December, Hong Kong's international passengers have not been subjected to movement controls related to Covid-19 and are not barred from entering certain places.

The city government said that the travellers arriving in Hong Kong can also directly head to Macau or mainland China as long as they fulfil the required criteria. Earlier, the travellers had to wait for three days before travelling to the mainland.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In the backdrop of the Chinese government's accelerated unwinding of tough Covid-19 rules which had stunted economic growth, Hong Kong is planning to re-open its borders with Beijing from mid-January, said city Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday.

In the backdrop of the Chinese government's accelerated unwinding of tough Covid-19 rules which had stunted economic growth, Hong Kong is planning to re-open its borders with Beijing from mid-January, said city Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday. While addressing a press meet at the Hong Kong airport after returning from a trip to China, Lee said that the city will "gradually, orderly, and fully" be re-opened so that the border can attain normalcy like it was before the outbreak of coronavirus. "Our goal is to quickly come to a consensus with the central government, submit our plan to the central government for review and execute on the plan before mid-January," Lee said. ALSO READ| Hong Kong announces further easing of COVID-19 curbs “Hong Kong authorities will work with the governments of neighbouring Shenzhen city and Guangdong province to manage the flow of people crossing the border,” he added. The authorities imposed restrictions on travelling across the border in early 2020. The border re-opening was postponed many times because of outbreaks in mainland China or Hong Kong. China and Hong Kong have been lagging extremely behind other countries in easing curbs related to coronavirus. People living in Hong Kong's Chinese special administrative region had access to mainland China only through the airport of the city or two checkpoints — the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge or Shenzhen Bay. WATCH| WION Business News | Hong Kong's property vacancies hit record According to local media, the authorities are preparing for the re-opening of the border which includes the deployment of officers in huge numbers from the custom department of the city and police services, local media reported. On December 12, the government of Hong Kong said that cross-border truck drivers were permitted by the mainland authorities to collect and deliver goods directly to their designated addresses without using the checkpoints. Since mid-December, Hong Kong's international passengers have not been subjected to movement controls related to Covid-19 and are not barred from entering certain places. The city government said that the travellers arriving in Hong Kong can also directly head to Macau or mainland China as long as they fulfil the required criteria. Earlier, the travellers had to wait for three days before travelling to the mainland. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong prepares to re-open border with mainland China from mid-January

More than one million people faced power outages in the United States on Friday as the cyclonic winter storm battered the country, cancelling flights, blocking highways and making travel misery for home goers ahead of the holiday season.

Howling winds, heavy snow and frigid air which can turn boiling water into ice instantly have hit most of the nation, including southern states, which are normally temperate.

Weather warnings were issued to around 200 million Americans, as -55 Fahrenheit (-48 Celsius) was recorded as the lowest temperature amid chilly wind, the National Weather Service (NWS) stated.&nbsp;

39-year-old Jennifer Orlando, who lives in Hamburg, New York, faced a power outage of four hours after a vehicle accidentally slid into a power line. For thousands of electricity consumers, who are facing power outages, the winter storm has become an issue of immediate concern.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-experience-freezing-temperatures-forecast-service-warns-itll-cause-frostbite-in-five-mins-545166">US, Canada experience freezing temperatures, forecast service warns it'll cause frostbite in five mins</a>

Migrants and homeless seek warm shelters&nbsp;

Migrants coming from Mexico sought shelter in schools, churches and a civic centre of El Paso, Texas for warmth, said school teacher and volunteer Rosa Falcon.

However, some migrants still stay outside battling -15 Fahrenheit temperatures fearing that they may come in the eyes of immigration authorities, she said.

Non-profit organisation Burke Patten of Night Ministry, established in Chicago to help the homeless, stated, "We've been handing out cold weather gear, including coats, hats, gloves, thermal underwear, blankets and sleeping bags, along with hand and foot warmers."

Chicago area commander for the Salvation Army Major Caleb Senn said that centres have been opened by the organisation for sheltering people from the fierce winter.

"Some of the people we're seeing right now, they've just become homeless this year. Some of these people are actually frightened. This is the first time they've been in the elements without someplace to go,” he stated.

WATCH| Gravitas: U.S. faces winter storm on Christmas weekend

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-faces-winter-storm-on-christmas-weekend-546189/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Flights cancelled, accident reported as visibility drops to zero

Near-zero visibility, stormy weather and ice-covered roads were reported in Oklahoma, Iowa, North and South Dakota and elsewhere and people were appealed to stay home.

Reports of two traffic fatalities came from Oklahoma on Thursday. Kentucky's governor Andy Beshear confirmed three fatalities in his state.

In Ohio, one person was killed in a 50-vehicle pile-up, while traffic was snarled in Michigan after the accident of nine tractor-trailers.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said, "This is an epic, statewide hazard. The roads are going to be like an ice skating rink and your tires cannot handle this."

On Friday, almost 5,000 flights were cancelled and 7,600 were delayed. The balmy Los Angeles also felt the misery of flight cancellation.

While speaking to ABC 7, Christine Lerosen said she failed to find a flight out of Vancouver.&nbsp;

"I had to get my brother to drive me down to Seattle - had to book a flight out of Seattle to go to Denver, to fly here. My Seattle flight was delayed, my Denver flight was delayed and now they lost my luggage," she added.

By the afternoon of Friday, the storm took the shape of a "bomb cyclone" after there was a precipitous drop in air pressure in 24 hours.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weather-what-is-bomb-cyclone-does-it-explode-545587">US Weather: What is Bomb cyclone? Does it explode?</a>

Wind chills, rapid frostbite

NWS' lead forecaster Rich Maliawco, while speaking in Glasgow, Montana where overnight wind chill dropped to -60 Fahrenheit, called the weather 'extremely dangerous'.

"With these kinds of wind chills, if you're not wearing those warm layers... unprotected skin can get frostbite in less than five minutes," he stated.

He said that people have been posting videos of the "boiling water challenge," where they throw boiling water into the air as it freezes instantly.

"We created our own cloud @ -17° F (-27° C) at the #Missoula International Airport," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

More than one million people faced power outages in the United States on Friday as the cyclonic winter storm battered the country, cancelling flights, blocking highways and making travel misery for home goers ahead of the holiday season.

More than one million people faced power outages in the United States on Friday as the cyclonic winter storm battered the country, cancelling flights, blocking highways and making travel misery for home goers ahead of the holiday season. Howling winds, heavy snow and frigid air which can turn boiling water into ice instantly have hit most of the nation, including southern states, which are normally temperate. Weather warnings were issued to around 200 million Americans, as -55 Fahrenheit (-48 Celsius) was recorded as the lowest temperature amid chilly wind, the National Weather Service (NWS) stated. 39-year-old Jennifer Orlando, who lives in Hamburg, New York, faced a power outage of four hours after a vehicle accidentally slid into a power line. For thousands of electricity consumers, who are facing power outages, the winter storm has become an issue of immediate concern. ALSO READ| US, Canada experience freezing temperatures, forecast service warns it'll cause frostbite in five mins Migrants and homeless seek warm shelters Migrants coming from Mexico sought shelter in schools, churches and a civic centre of El Paso, Texas for warmth, said school teacher and volunteer Rosa Falcon. However, some migrants still stay outside battling -15 Fahrenheit temperatures fearing that they may come in the eyes of immigration authorities, she said. Non-profit organisation Burke Patten of Night Ministry, established in Chicago to help the homeless, stated, "We've been handing out cold weather gear, including coats, hats, gloves, thermal underwear, blankets and sleeping bags, along with hand and foot warmers." Chicago area commander for the Salvation Army Major Caleb Senn said that centres have been opened by the organisation for sheltering people from the fierce winter. "Some of the people we're seeing right now, they've just become homeless this year. Some of these people are actually frightened. This is the first time they've been in the elements without someplace to go,” he stated. WATCH| Gravitas: U.S. faces winter storm on Christmas weekend Flights cancelled, accident reported as visibility drops to zero Near-zero visibility, stormy weather and ice-covered roads were reported in Oklahoma, Iowa, North and South Dakota and elsewhere and people were appealed to stay home. Reports of two traffic fatalities came from Oklahoma on Thursday. Kentucky's governor Andy Beshear confirmed three fatalities in his state. In Ohio, one person was killed in a 50-vehicle pile-up, while traffic was snarled in Michigan after the accident of nine tractor-trailers. New York Governor Kathy Hochul said, "This is an epic, statewide hazard. The roads are going to be like an ice skating rink and your tires cannot handle this." On Friday, almost 5,000 flights were cancelled and 7,600 were delayed. The balmy Los Angeles also felt the misery of flight cancellation. While speaking to ABC 7, Christine Lerosen said she failed to find a flight out of Vancouver. "I had to get my brother to drive me down to Seattle - had to book a flight out of Seattle to go to Denver, to fly here. My Seattle flight was delayed, my Denver flight was delayed and now they lost my luggage," she added. By the afternoon of Friday, the storm took the shape of a "bomb cyclone" after there was a precipitous drop in air pressure in 24 hours. ALSO READ| US Weather: What is Bomb cyclone? Does it explode? Wind chills, rapid frostbite NWS' lead forecaster Rich Maliawco, while speaking in Glasgow, Montana where overnight wind chill dropped to -60 Fahrenheit, called the weather 'extremely dangerous'. "With these kinds of wind chills, if you're not wearing those warm layers... unprotected skin can get frostbite in less than five minutes," he stated. He said that people have been posting videos of the "boiling water challenge," where they throw boiling water into the air as it freezes instantly. "We created our own cloud @ -17° F (-27° C) at the #Missoula International Airport," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Epic' winter storm hits Americans, as millions face power outage ahead of holiday season

The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction.&nbsp;

The nasal tissue of Covid patients was analysed by doctors who found inflammation-driving immune cells present inside the delicate nasal lining of those people who were facing the loss of smell which was probably removing vital sensory nerve cells.&nbsp;

North Carolina Duke University neurobiology department's associate professor Dr Bradley Goldstein said that tissues present inside the nose lining “contained unique immune cells producing inflammatory signals, combined with fewer olfactory nerve cells”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japan-approves-blood-test-that-might-detect-alzheimers-move-aims-to-reduce-financial-and-emotion-pain-545564"> Japan approves one of the world's first blood test kit that might detect Alzheimer's</a>

The research found unusual immune responses present in patients who are suffering from the loss of sense of smell for months. “It appears that there is an unresolved local immune response, which the delicate olfactory cells are seeing,” he said.&nbsp;

Since it was brought to the notice of doctors that many Covid patients are suffering the loss of smell, it has remained unclear if the sensory cells present in the nose and around the brain have individually or together suffered damage by the virus.&nbsp;

Biopsied tissue present in 24 Covid patients' nasal linings was studied by the researchers, which included nine patients who had no sense of smell for at least four months.&nbsp;

In the tissue, it was found that the nasal lining was infiltrated by T-cells involved in inflammation where smell nerve cells are present.

WATCH| China witnesses a sharp surge in Covid Cases again

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-witnesses-a-sharp-surge-in-covid-cases-again-545536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This unusual immune response was present in patients who had no detectable coronavirus, which further indicated that the response persisted after the clearance of infection.

When the number of sensory nerve cells which are involved in smell was studied by the researchers, it was found that those suffering from loss of smell for a long time had fewer cells because the nasal lining's delicate issue was damaged by the T-cell-driven inflammation.

Goldstein added that other symptoms of Covid might be explained by similar immune responses.

“Currently, we have no specific, effective treatments. To develop therapies, we need to understand the pathobiology of the problem: what is damaged and where,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction.

The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction. The nasal tissue of Covid patients was analysed by doctors who found inflammation-driving immune cells present inside the delicate nasal lining of those people who were facing the loss of smell which was probably removing vital sensory nerve cells. North Carolina Duke University neurobiology department's associate professor Dr Bradley Goldstein said that tissues present inside the nose lining “contained unique immune cells producing inflammatory signals, combined with fewer olfactory nerve cells”. ALSO READ| Japan approves one of the world's first blood test kit that might detect Alzheimer's The research found unusual immune responses present in patients who are suffering from the loss of sense of smell for months. “It appears that there is an unresolved local immune response, which the delicate olfactory cells are seeing,” he said. Since it was brought to the notice of doctors that many Covid patients are suffering the loss of smell, it has remained unclear if the sensory cells present in the nose and around the brain have individually or together suffered damage by the virus. Biopsied tissue present in 24 Covid patients' nasal linings was studied by the researchers, which included nine patients who had no sense of smell for at least four months. In the tissue, it was found that the nasal lining was infiltrated by T-cells involved in inflammation where smell nerve cells are present. WATCH| China witnesses a sharp surge in Covid Cases again This unusual immune response was present in patients who had no detectable coronavirus, which further indicated that the response persisted after the clearance of infection. When the number of sensory nerve cells which are involved in smell was studied by the researchers, it was found that those suffering from loss of smell for a long time had fewer cells because the nasal lining's delicate issue was damaged by the T-cell-driven inflammation. Goldstein added that other symptoms of Covid might be explained by similar immune responses. “Currently, we have no specific, effective treatments. To develop therapies, we need to understand the pathobiology of the problem: what is damaged and where,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Nasal cell destruction causing loss of smell in Covid cases: Researchers

In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer.&nbsp;According to reports, the samples of tourists visiting the Taj Mahal are being tested for coronavirus by Agra’s health department, especially of those visitors who are coming from foreign countries.

As per reports, the Taj, one of the wonders of the world, has been welcoming foreign and domestic tourists in huge numbers every day. Meanwhile, testing of coronavirus is being carried out by health officials at bus stands, airports and railway stations in Agra.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-registering-a-million-cases-5000-deaths-a-day-says-report-plans-to-cut-quarantine-for-travellers-545676">China has 1mn Covid cases, 5k deaths a day, claims report as it plans to cut travellers' quarantine</a>

Agra’s District Health Information Officer Anil Satsangi said, "The health department has already started the tests to prevent the spread of infection. As the alert is on, the tests have now been made mandatory for all the visitors."

Speaking about the precautionary measures, Chief Medical Officer of Agra Dr AK Srivastava said that in the wake of increasing cases of Covid-19 in China, there is enough reason to adopt precautionary measures.

WATCH| WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-india-takes-precautionary-measures-after-covid-cases-rise-in-china-545612/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He added that Agra hosts the most popular tourist destination of the country, the Taj Mahal, and hence receives foreign visitors in large numbers and in this winter too, the city is witnessing tourists in huge numbers as it is the tourism season’s peak.

The official further stated that the officials are testing around 500 to 1000 samples daily at different locations, which include the district hospital’s testing centre and that plans are being made to increase the number of samples being tested daily if there is a need in future.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer.

In the wake of recent increase in cases of coronavirus in China and other nations, India’s international tourist hotspot, the Taj Mahal, has been put on alert. The Covid alert in the Taj Mahal was confirmed by Agra’s District Health Information Officer. According to reports, the samples of tourists visiting the Taj Mahal are being tested for coronavirus by Agra’s health department, especially of those visitors who are coming from foreign countries. As per reports, the Taj, one of the wonders of the world, has been welcoming foreign and domestic tourists in huge numbers every day. Meanwhile, testing of coronavirus is being carried out by health officials at bus stands, airports and railway stations in Agra. ALSO READ| China has 1mn Covid cases, 5k deaths a day, claims report as it plans to cut travellers' quarantine Agra’s District Health Information Officer Anil Satsangi said, "The health department has already started the tests to prevent the spread of infection. As the alert is on, the tests have now been made mandatory for all the visitors." Speaking about the precautionary measures, Chief Medical Officer of Agra Dr AK Srivastava said that in the wake of increasing cases of Covid-19 in China, there is enough reason to adopt precautionary measures. WATCH| WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China He added that Agra hosts the most popular tourist destination of the country, the Taj Mahal, and hence receives foreign visitors in large numbers and in this winter too, the city is witnessing tourists in huge numbers as it is the tourism season’s peak. The official further stated that the officials are testing around 500 to 1000 samples daily at different locations, which include the district hospital’s testing centre and that plans are being made to increase the number of samples being tested daily if there is a need in future. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus spike alert: No entry for visitors in the Taj Mahal without Covid testing

A government spending bill, amounting to $1.7 trillion, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday to avert the government’s partial shutdown. The bill has now been sent to US President Joe Biden for his official signature and to the House for its approval.&nbsp;The legislation will provide funding for various US military and non-military programmes till September 30, 2023. Meanwhile, the legislation includes wartime aid worth $44.9 billion which will be provided to Ukraine and banning the usage of social media applications like TikTok, which are run owned by the Chinese, on devices of the federal government.

The passing of the bill was slowed down after an amendment was introduced by conservative Republican Mike Lee for slowing immigration. This gave the Democrats an opportunity to introduce an amendment for boosting law enforcement agencies’ funds, which are located on the border.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/winter-storm-more-than-2000-flights-cancelled-as-us-braces-for-once-in-a-generation-event-545698">Winter storm: More than 2,000 flights cancelled as US braces for ‘once-in-a-generation event’</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, the two amendments failed which permitted the lawmakers to go ahead. The massive spending bill includes $858 billion for defence as well as $772.5 billion for non-defence programmes.

Lawmakers hurried for the spending bill’s approval, as many of them were anxious about the completion of the task before they are stranded in Washington because of the winter storm ahead of the holidays. Few also wanted to finalise the funding before it is made harder by the new Republican-controlled House to find a compromise.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had on Wednesday night emphasised the importance of US aid in the Russia-Ukraine war. “Your money is not charity. It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way,” Zelenskyy had stated.

WATCH| TikTok in the US: TikTok's attempts to reassure government, security concerns surrounding the app

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiktok-in-the-us-tiktoks-attempts-to-reassure-government-security-concerns-surrounding-the-app-545724/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The spending bill’s funds include Ukraine and NATO allies’ emergency assistance as per US President Joe Biden’s request. Chuck Schumer, leader of the Democratic majority, said that it will be Congress’ worst step to give any signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin that the US is wavering in its commitment made to Ukraine.

“He made it clear that without this aid package, the Ukrainians will be in real trouble and could even lose the war. So that makes the urgency of getting this legislation done all the more important,” Schumer said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A government spending bill, amounting to $1.7 trillion, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday to avert the government’s partial shutdown. The bill has now been sent to US President Joe Biden for his official signature and to the House for its approval.

A government spending bill, amounting to $1.7 trillion, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday to avert the government’s partial shutdown. The bill has now been sent to US President Joe Biden for his official signature and to the House for its approval. The legislation will provide funding for various US military and non-military programmes till September 30, 2023. Meanwhile, the legislation includes wartime aid worth $44.9 billion which will be provided to Ukraine and banning the usage of social media applications like TikTok, which are run owned by the Chinese, on devices of the federal government. The passing of the bill was slowed down after an amendment was introduced by conservative Republican Mike Lee for slowing immigration. This gave the Democrats an opportunity to introduce an amendment for boosting law enforcement agencies’ funds, which are located on the border. ALSO READ| Winter storm: More than 2,000 flights cancelled as US braces for ‘once-in-a-generation event’ However, the two amendments failed which permitted the lawmakers to go ahead. The massive spending bill includes $858 billion for defence as well as $772.5 billion for non-defence programmes. Lawmakers hurried for the spending bill’s approval, as many of them were anxious about the completion of the task before they are stranded in Washington because of the winter storm ahead of the holidays. Few also wanted to finalise the funding before it is made harder by the new Republican-controlled House to find a compromise. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had on Wednesday night emphasised the importance of US aid in the Russia-Ukraine war. “Your money is not charity. It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way,” Zelenskyy had stated. WATCH| TikTok in the US: TikTok's attempts to reassure government, security concerns surrounding the app The spending bill’s funds include Ukraine and NATO allies’ emergency assistance as per US President Joe Biden’s request. Chuck Schumer, leader of the Democratic majority, said that it will be Congress’ worst step to give any signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin that the US is wavering in its commitment made to Ukraine. “He made it clear that without this aid package, the Ukrainians will be in real trouble and could even lose the war. So that makes the urgency of getting this legislation done all the more important,” Schumer said. (With inputs from agencies)

US Senate passes $1.7 trillion spending bill to avert partial government shutdown

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier&nbsp; and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.&nbsp;

However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-blocks-scotland-from-holding-second-independence-referendum-536746">UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum</a>

The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender.

"The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament.

UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues."

WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scottish-independence-referendum-people-of-scotland-have-the-right-to-choose-488486/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months.

The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak-led UK government is likely to block Scotland’s gender reform law, which will make the process of changing gender easier for people. The move comes after Scottish lawmakers on Thursday passed a contentious law which made it both easier and faster for its citizens to change their genders, despite facing protest from within the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) and "concerns" by the UK government. However, the passing of legislation leads to a clash with the UK government, which has raised concerns over children's and women’s safety. Scottish government’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that they will fight all the attempts made to stop the law. ALSO READ| UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum The legislation, which received 86 votes in favour and 39 in opposition in the devolved parliament of Scotland in Edinburgh, removed the need for a gender dysphoria medical diagnosis if a person wants to change his/her gender. "The motion is therefore agreed and the Gender Recognition Reform Scotland Bill is passed," said presiding officer Alison Johnstone, responding to the public gallery's loud applause. To prevent the legislation from becoming law, the UK government can block the Royal Assent, when the King gives his formal agreement to the Bill and it takes the shape of an Act of the Scottish Parliament. UK Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch said that the bill’s implications on the lives of girls and women have not been considered by the Scottish government. She said in a statement: "The UK government is now looking at provisions that can prompt reconsideration and allow MSPs to address these issues." WATCH| Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose' As per the legislation, people between the age of 16 and 17 will now be permitted to change their gender. The law has further reduced the required time an applicant needs to live in their new gender before its official recognition from two years to three months and in the case of 16 and 17-year-old citizens, the time required is six months. The applicant will also be provided an additional time of three months as a reflection period during which the applicant who has initiated the process or considering changing the gender can change their decision. However, the Scottish government argues that the Equality Act will not be impacted by the legislation, which permits transgenders to be excluded from single-sex spaces like changing rooms. Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has battled the biggest internal opposition over the legislation in her tenure of eight years, said that the older system for altering gender was "intrusive, traumatic and dehumanising". (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak-led UK government likely to block Scotland’s gender reform legislation

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