In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance.&nbsp;

In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day.

“The takeaway is just [that] physical activity is good for your brain and good sleep helps that,” said Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, who is the first author of the study.

As per the researchers, physical activity has earlier been associated with a reduced risk of dementia and short-term improvements in cognitive function.&nbsp;

However, as stated by Bloomberg, many studies that look at short-term impacts were based on laboratory data and tracked responses on a timescale of minutes to hours.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-infection-kills-79-in-congo-japan-and-hong-kong-increase-vigilance-782250">Mysterious infection kills 79 in Congo; Japan and Hong Kong increase vigilance</a>

As per these studies, physical activities can also lead to increased blood flow to the brain and cause stimulation of chemicals, which are known as neurotransmitters.

In the new study, researchers have observed the short-term impact of physical activity carried out in real life and not only found how it benefits the brain but also revealed that its impact lasts longer than expected.

<h2>Here's how scientists carried out the study</h2>

In the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Bloomberg and her colleagues reported how 76 adults, aged between 50 and 83 years old and not suffering from cognitive impairment or dementia, were made to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their physical activity and sleep as they continued with their normal lives.

Every day, participants were made to go through simple online cognitive tests to probe their processing speed, memory, and attention, among other faculties.

According to the team, the results revealed that every 30-minute increase in physical activity corresponded to a 2 to 5 per cent increase in working and episodic memory scores the next day.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK Health Services Strained as NHS Faces Record Flu Surge

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-health-services-strained-as-nhs-faces-record-flu-surge-782011/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bloomberg said that the next step is carrying out similar tests in people with cognitive impairments.

“The idea is for people who have mild cognitive impairment, a very minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference,” she added.

The study is focused on how human brains can be protected as we age.&nbsp;

“We all experience cognitive decline as we get older, it’s a normal part of ageing,” said Bloomberg.&nbsp;

“So that’s the age group where we start to think: what are these little things we can do on a day-to-day basis to improve our cognitive function and our independence and social participation?" he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance. In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day.

In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance. In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day. “The takeaway is just [that] physical activity is good for your brain and good sleep helps that,” said Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, who is the first author of the study. As per the researchers, physical activity has earlier been associated with a reduced risk of dementia and short-term improvements in cognitive function. However, as stated by Bloomberg, many studies that look at short-term impacts were based on laboratory data and tracked responses on a timescale of minutes to hours. Also Read: Mysterious infection kills 79 in Congo; Japan and Hong Kong increase vigilance As per these studies, physical activities can also lead to increased blood flow to the brain and cause stimulation of chemicals, which are known as neurotransmitters. In the new study, researchers have observed the short-term impact of physical activity carried out in real life and not only found how it benefits the brain but also revealed that its impact lasts longer than expected. Here's how scientists carried out the study In the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Bloomberg and her colleagues reported how 76 adults, aged between 50 and 83 years old and not suffering from cognitive impairment or dementia, were made to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their physical activity and sleep as they continued with their normal lives. Every day, participants were made to go through simple online cognitive tests to probe their processing speed, memory, and attention, among other faculties. According to the team, the results revealed that every 30-minute increase in physical activity corresponded to a 2 to 5 per cent increase in working and episodic memory scores the next day. Watch: UK Health Services Strained as NHS Faces Record Flu Surge Bloomberg said that the next step is carrying out similar tests in people with cognitive impairments. “The idea is for people who have mild cognitive impairment, a very minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference,” she added. The study is focused on how human brains can be protected as we age. “We all experience cognitive decline as we get older, it’s a normal part of ageing,” said Bloomberg. “So that’s the age group where we start to think: what are these little things we can do on a day-to-day basis to improve our cognitive function and our independence and social participation?" he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers say 30 minutes of exercise improves memory, enhances cognitive performance

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts.

The leader, who claimed to have more than 20 spiritual 'wives', made schemes to kidnap children from protective custody and forced them to perform sex acts with him as well as other adults.&nbsp;

Samuel Bateman, who was leading a group that was an offshoot of the sect that was once headed by Warren Jeffs, pleaded guilty to making schemes for transporting girls and pushing them into sex crimes and also kidnapping some from protective custody.

As per the agreement, Bateman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring the transportation of a minor for sexual activity and one count of conspiring the kidnapping of the girls.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshs-interim-govt-seeks-help-of-religious-leaders-to-get-info-about-attacks-on-minorities-781836">Bangladesh’s interim govt seeks help of religious leaders to get info about attacks on minorities</a>

The crime of transporting children carries a sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment, and kidnapping also has the punishment of life imprisonment.&nbsp;

The court sentenced Bateman to 50 years on each count, which he needs to serve concurrently. As part of the agreement, the court dismissed the rest of the charges.

<h2>All about Samuel Bateman-run FLDS</h2>

As per the authorities, 48-year-old Bateman made an effort to start an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which is situated in the neighbouring communities of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah.&nbsp;

The fundamentalist group had split from the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after polygamy was officially abandoned by its members in 1890.&nbsp;

U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich sentenced the leader after hearing statements from three teenage girls regarding the trauma that they are struggling to overcome.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sukhbir Singh Badal Faces Religious Punishment From Akal Takht&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sukhbir-singh-badal-faces-religious-punishment-from-akal-takht-world-news-wion-781184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"You should not have the opportunity to be free and never have the opportunity to be around young women," Brnovich said to Bateman&nbsp;and added that the 50-year sentence is equal to a life sentence for a nearly 49-year-old man.

"You took them from their homes, from their families, and made them into sex slaves. You stripped them of their innocence and childhood," said the judge.

After the court pronounced the sentence, the girls accompanying the women hugged them and wept.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts.

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts. The leader, who claimed to have more than 20 spiritual 'wives', made schemes to kidnap children from protective custody and forced them to perform sex acts with him as well as other adults. Samuel Bateman, who was leading a group that was an offshoot of the sect that was once headed by Warren Jeffs, pleaded guilty to making schemes for transporting girls and pushing them into sex crimes and also kidnapping some from protective custody. As per the agreement, Bateman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring the transportation of a minor for sexual activity and one count of conspiring the kidnapping of the girls. Also Read: Bangladesh’s interim govt seeks help of religious leaders to get info about attacks on minorities The crime of transporting children carries a sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment, and kidnapping also has the punishment of life imprisonment. The court sentenced Bateman to 50 years on each count, which he needs to serve concurrently. As part of the agreement, the court dismissed the rest of the charges. All about Samuel Bateman-run FLDS As per the authorities, 48-year-old Bateman made an effort to start an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which is situated in the neighbouring communities of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah. The fundamentalist group had split from the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after polygamy was officially abandoned by its members in 1890. U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich sentenced the leader after hearing statements from three teenage girls regarding the trauma that they are struggling to overcome. Watch: Sukhbir Singh Badal Faces Religious Punishment From Akal Takht "You should not have the opportunity to be free and never have the opportunity to be around young women," Brnovich said to Bateman and added that the 50-year sentence is equal to a life sentence for a nearly 49-year-old man. "You took them from their homes, from their families, and made them into sex slaves. You stripped them of their innocence and childhood," said the judge. After the court pronounced the sentence, the girls accompanying the women hugged them and wept. (With inputs from agencies)

US polygamous leader, who has 20 spiritual 'wives', gets prison sentence for criminal sex acts with children

More than 120 people were detained by the police at a drug-fuelled party in Bangkok, said officers on Monday (Dec 9). The men who were caught by the police were only wearing their underwear.&nbsp;

Police Colonel Pansa Amarapitak said that they received a tip regarding a "drug party" in a room at a hotel in central Bangkok on Sunday (Dec 8).

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-court-gives-prison-sentence-to-once-love-scam-victim-for-smuggling-drugs-781534">Japan court gives prison sentence to 'once love scam victim' for smuggling drugs</a>

In the photos of the incident, the room was seen full of male suspects who had handcuffs and were not wearing anything but underpants. The men were searched for drugs by the officers.

<h2>What did the police find in the raid?</h2>

In the raid, the police found that 31 out of the 124 people arrested had illegal narcotics like Ecstasy, ketamine and crystal methamphetamine in their possession, said Pansa.&nbsp;

He stated that all of them had been tested regarding the substances and 66 of them were found to have traces of the drugs in their system.

He further said that all except two were men and five of them were foreigners.

Police are now seeking the permission of the court to hold those who are suspected of having drugs in their possessions for questioning after the 48-hour window, said Pansa.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump Wants Drug Sales Stopped on Google, Meta&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-wants-drug-sales-stopped-on-google-meta-gravitas-782780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pansa said that the rest have been released.

In Southeast Asia, Thailand is a major hub where illegal drug trafficking happens and police commonly carry out raids for hard narcotics like heroin and methamphetamine.&nbsp;

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said that they had seized a record 190 tonnes of methamphetamine in East and Southeast Asia last year. The anti-drug laws are tough in Thailand.&nbsp;

People can be jailed for up to 10 years in Thailand if caught with drugs like Ecstasy and methamphetamine in possession.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 120 people were detained by the police at a drug-fuelled party in Bangkok, said officers on Monday (Dec 9). The men who were caught by the police were only wearing their underwear.

More than 120 people were detained by the police at a drug-fuelled party in Bangkok, said officers on Monday (Dec 9). The men who were caught by the police were only wearing their underwear. Police Colonel Pansa Amarapitak said that they received a tip regarding a "drug party" in a room at a hotel in central Bangkok on Sunday (Dec 8). Also Read: Japan court gives prison sentence to 'once love scam victim' for smuggling drugs In the photos of the incident, the room was seen full of male suspects who had handcuffs and were not wearing anything but underpants. The men were searched for drugs by the officers. What did the police find in the raid? In the raid, the police found that 31 out of the 124 people arrested had illegal narcotics like Ecstasy, ketamine and crystal methamphetamine in their possession, said Pansa. He stated that all of them had been tested regarding the substances and 66 of them were found to have traces of the drugs in their system. He further said that all except two were men and five of them were foreigners. Police are now seeking the permission of the court to hold those who are suspected of having drugs in their possessions for questioning after the 48-hour window, said Pansa. Watch: Trump Wants Drug Sales Stopped on Google, Meta Pansa said that the rest have been released. In Southeast Asia, Thailand is a major hub where illegal drug trafficking happens and police commonly carry out raids for hard narcotics like heroin and methamphetamine. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said that they had seized a record 190 tonnes of methamphetamine in East and Southeast Asia last year. The anti-drug laws are tough in Thailand. People can be jailed for up to 10 years in Thailand if caught with drugs like Ecstasy and methamphetamine in possession. (With inputs from agencies)

Police detain more than 120 people in underwear ‘drug party’ in Thailand

The New York Police on Monday (Dec 09) arrested a man in connection with the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's fatal shooting. The man allegedly possessed a type of homemade weapon called a "ghost gun."

The 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who has been called a “strong person of interest" by the police, had a "ghost gun that had the capability of firing 9 mm round and a suppressor” when the officials arrested him on weapon charges in Altoona, Pennsylvania, said New York Police Department Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny while speaking to&nbsp;reporters. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking to NBC, a senior law enforcement official said that the weapon found in the possession of Mangione appeared very similar to the weapon which was involved in the Manhattan murder.&nbsp;

Kenny added that the weapon "may have been made on a 3D printer."

<h2>What is a ghost gun?</h2>

A ghost gun is a privately made firearm which gets assembled by people who are not licensed manufacturers, as per the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.&nbsp;

These guns do not have a serial number which makes it difficult for officials to track them.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspect-in-unitedhealth-ceo-killing-arrested-782799">UnitedHealthcare CEO killing: New York prosecutors file murder charges against suspect Luigi Mangione</a>

All the ghost guns are not illegal and all firearms do not need to have a serial number. Ghost guns can be shotguns, revolvers, rifles, pistols, machine guns and more.&nbsp;

From 2016 to 2021, ATF reported that more than 45,000 suspected ghost guns were recovered from potential crime scenes by police.

<h2>How are ghost guns usually made by people?</h2>

People make ghost guns by using a 3D printer or they are assembled from a kit. The weapons can be made by spending less than $200, although an average price of around $500 has been placed by the officials, reported CBS News.&nbsp;

People can even buy kits of handguns as well as AR-15s and AK-47s from online platforms.

Watch:&nbsp;UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder: Brian Thompson’s Murder Suspect Now In Custody

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-brian-thompsons-murder-suspect-now-in-custody-world-news-wion-782811/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"You can buy a box of firearms parts, and you can assemble those firearms together. And I've seen videos on YouTube, where you can see people doing it in record time — 20, 30 minutes," said Marvin Richardson, ATF acting director in 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Are ghost guns illegal in the US?</h2>

All kinds of ghost guns are not illegal in the country. As per the ATF, people can make their own firearms with the use of 3D printing or other process if the gun made is "detectable", as per the Gun Control Act.

As per the ATF, it is legal for people to make a firearm for personal use without any license.&nbsp;

Some states, which include where Thompson was shot, have additional laws around ghost guns.

(With inputs from agencies)

The New York Police on Monday (Dec 09) arrested a man in connection with the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's fatal shooting. The man allegedly possessed a type of homemade weapon called a "ghost gun.

The New York Police on Monday (Dec 09) arrested a man in connection with the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's fatal shooting. The man allegedly possessed a type of homemade weapon called a "ghost gun." The 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who has been called a “strong person of interest" by the police, had a "ghost gun that had the capability of firing 9 mm round and a suppressor” when the officials arrested him on weapon charges in Altoona, Pennsylvania, said New York Police Department Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny while speaking to reporters. Speaking to NBC, a senior law enforcement official said that the weapon found in the possession of Mangione appeared very similar to the weapon which was involved in the Manhattan murder. Kenny added that the weapon "may have been made on a 3D printer." What is a ghost gun? A ghost gun is a privately made firearm which gets assembled by people who are not licensed manufacturers, as per the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. These guns do not have a serial number which makes it difficult for officials to track them. Also Read: UnitedHealthcare CEO killing: New York prosecutors file murder charges against suspect Luigi Mangione All the ghost guns are not illegal and all firearms do not need to have a serial number. Ghost guns can be shotguns, revolvers, rifles, pistols, machine guns and more. From 2016 to 2021, ATF reported that more than 45,000 suspected ghost guns were recovered from potential crime scenes by police. How are ghost guns usually made by people? People make ghost guns by using a 3D printer or they are assembled from a kit. The weapons can be made by spending less than $200, although an average price of around $500 has been placed by the officials, reported CBS News. People can even buy kits of handguns as well as AR-15s and AK-47s from online platforms. Watch: UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder: Brian Thompson’s Murder Suspect Now In Custody "You can buy a box of firearms parts, and you can assemble those firearms together. And I've seen videos on YouTube, where you can see people doing it in record time — 20, 30 minutes," said Marvin Richardson, ATF acting director in 2022. Are ghost guns illegal in the US? All kinds of ghost guns are not illegal in the country. As per the ATF, people can make their own firearms with the use of 3D printing or other process if the gun made is "detectable", as per the Gun Control Act. As per the ATF, it is legal for people to make a firearm for personal use without any license. Some states, which include where Thompson was shot, have additional laws around ghost guns. (With inputs from agencies)

All about ghost gun, an untraceable firearm connected to killing of CEO Brian Thompson

YesMadam, a start-up that provides salon service at homes and has gained fame from its appearance in Shark Tank&nbsp;show, landed in trouble after an email from its Human Resources department manager regarding lay-offs went viral.&nbsp;

In the email, 100 employees, who said in response to a survey that they had “significant stress” because of their work load, were asked to leave the company immediately.&nbsp;

The screenshot of the email was shared on social media platforms and soon went viral.

But were the employees really fired by the company? Here's the truth behind the viral post.&nbsp;

<h2>YesMadam releases a statement on the viral post</h2>

YesMadam released a statement on the viral post and clarified that the employees were not laid off and the post was shared with the aim to emphasise the issue of workplace stress.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zepto-graptile-ceos-share-views-on-work-life-balance-face-backlash-781499">Zepto CEO clarifies stance on work life balance after 'toxic culture' allegations</a>

"We sincerely apologise for any distress caused by recent social media posts suggesting we dismissed employees for being stressed. Let us be clear: We would never take such an inhuman step. Our team is like family, and their dedication, hard work, and passion are the foundation of all our successes. The social media posts were a planned effort to highlight the serious issue of workplace stress. And to those who shared angry comments or voiced strong opinions, we say Thank you," said the company, in the statement.

"Were YesMadam employees really fired for being stressed? Absolutely not. They weren't fired; they were given a break to reset. They weren't let go; they were encouraged to release their stress. They weren't laid off; they were offered a chance to relax. They weren't sacked; they were urged to rest and recharge," it added.

The screenshot of the HR email created a stir on various social media platforms like X and LinkedIn, sparking off conversations about the stressful work culture in India.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what the viral email said</h2>

The email from YesMadam's HR department which went viral talked about 'parting ways with'&nbsp;100 employees who had maximum work stress.&nbsp;

"Recently, we conducted a survey to understand your feelings about stress at work. Many of you shared your concerns, which we deeply value and respect. As a company committed to fostering a healthy and supportive work environment, we have carefully considered the feedback," read the email.

"To ensure that no one remains stressed at work, we have made the difficult decision to part ways with employees who indicated significant stress. This decision is effective immediately, and impacted employees will receive further details separately. Thank you for your contributions," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Netizens react to the viral post</h2>

The screenshot of the email soon went viral and faced extreme backlash on social media platforms, with some terming it as a publicity stunt of the company.&nbsp;

“If this is a PR campaign, then we’ve literally stooped low!,” said a LinkedIn user.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/volkswagen-boss-signals-layoffs-and-plant-closures-to-tackle-costs-779064">Volkswagen boss signals layoffs and plant closures to tackle costs</a>

“HR conducts a stress-related survey - fires everyone who says they are stressed. Surely, you cannot be serious @_yesmadam. Please tell me this is a joke/marketing tactic,” commented X user Ravi Handa.

"When you try to lay off employees but the internet lays into you harder, and now it's 'just a stunt'—yeah, sure, the stunt was underestimating social media outrage. Next time, try a plot twist we can believe," wrote a user on X.

"If that was the intention than why use the wording of “part ways” and “effective immediately??" commented another user.

"A planned effort? Pretty damn tasteless one. Such a pathetic effort at damage control," said a user.

(With inputs from agencies)

YesMadam, a start-up that provides salon service at homes and has gained fame from its appearance in Shark Tank show, landed in trouble after an email from its Human Resources department manager regarding lay-offs went viral.

YesMadam, a start-up that provides salon service at homes and has gained fame from its appearance in Shark Tank show, landed in trouble after an email from its Human Resources department manager regarding lay-offs went viral. In the email, 100 employees, who said in response to a survey that they had “significant stress” because of their work load, were asked to leave the company immediately. The screenshot of the email was shared on social media platforms and soon went viral. But were the employees really fired by the company? Here's the truth behind the viral post. YesMadam releases a statement on the viral post YesMadam released a statement on the viral post and clarified that the employees were not laid off and the post was shared with the aim to emphasise the issue of workplace stress. Also Read: Zepto CEO clarifies stance on work life balance after 'toxic culture' allegations "We sincerely apologise for any distress caused by recent social media posts suggesting we dismissed employees for being stressed. Let us be clear: We would never take such an inhuman step. Our team is like family, and their dedication, hard work, and passion are the foundation of all our successes. The social media posts were a planned effort to highlight the serious issue of workplace stress. And to those who shared angry comments or voiced strong opinions, we say Thank you," said the company, in the statement. "Were YesMadam employees really fired for being stressed? Absolutely not. They weren't fired; they were given a break to reset. They weren't let go; they were encouraged to release their stress. They weren't laid off; they were offered a chance to relax. They weren't sacked; they were urged to rest and recharge," it added. The screenshot of the HR email created a stir on various social media platforms like X and LinkedIn, sparking off conversations about the stressful work culture in India. Here's what the viral email said The email from YesMadam's HR department which went viral talked about 'parting ways with' 100 employees who had maximum work stress. "Recently, we conducted a survey to understand your feelings about stress at work. Many of you shared your concerns, which we deeply value and respect. As a company committed to fostering a healthy and supportive work environment, we have carefully considered the feedback," read the email. "To ensure that no one remains stressed at work, we have made the difficult decision to part ways with employees who indicated significant stress. This decision is effective immediately, and impacted employees will receive further details separately. Thank you for your contributions," it added. Netizens react to the viral post The screenshot of the email soon went viral and faced extreme backlash on social media platforms, with some terming it as a publicity stunt of the company. “If this is a PR campaign, then we’ve literally stooped low!,” said a LinkedIn user. Also Read: Volkswagen boss signals layoffs and plant closures to tackle costs “HR conducts a stress-related survey - fires everyone who says they are stressed. Surely, you cannot be serious @_yesmadam. Please tell me this is a joke/marketing tactic,” commented X user Ravi Handa. "When you try to lay off employees but the internet lays into you harder, and now it's 'just a stunt'—yeah, sure, the stunt was underestimating social media outrage. Next time, try a plot twist we can believe," wrote a user on X. "If that was the intention than why use the wording of “part ways” and “effective immediately??" commented another user. "A planned effort? Pretty damn tasteless one. Such a pathetic effort at damage control," said a user. (With inputs from agencies)

YesMadam's HR email firing 100 employees to relieve their stress goes viral. Here's the truth behind the post

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

The operation included “dozens of precision airstrikes” and more than 75 targets were hit using Air Force assets like B-52s, F-15s and A-10s in central Syria, CENTCOM said in a statement.

“The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade and defeat ISIS, in order to prevent the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek to take advantage of the current situation to reconstitute in central Syria.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
𝐔.𝐒. 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 
 
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted dozens of precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and… <a href="https://t.co/E7CUPuPehf">pic.twitter.com/E7CUPuPehf</a>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1865841718366450013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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CENTCOM said that they are carrying out damage assessments and there are no indications of any civilians getting killed in the operations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bashar-al-assad-syrias-tyrant-who-pushed-the-country-into-a-decade-long-civil-war-782409">Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war</a>

CENTCOM further said that it, along with partners and regional allies, will continue its operations to weaken the operational capabilities of ISIS during this "dynamic period in Syria."

"There should be no doubt - we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria," said General Michael Erik Kurilla.

"All organisations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way," he added.

<h2>How did the US react to the fall of Damascus and the end of the Assad&nbsp;family's rule?</h2>

The Syrian government fell on Sunday (Dec 8) and President&nbsp;Bashar Assad was toppled from his position, marking the end of his family’s 50-year rule after the rebels stormed the capital.

Assad, along with his family,&nbsp;fled to Russia, where they were provided asylum.

In the wake of the incidents, US President Joe Biden confirmed that the country will continue carrying out anti-ISIS operations.&nbsp;

He said that the fall of Assad was a&nbsp;“fundamental act of justice”&nbsp;and added that the current phase was full of “risk and uncertainty.”

Watch:&nbsp;Syria Civil War: Rebels Seize Control Of Damascus As Assad Flees To Russia&nbsp;

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In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the people of Syria "finally have a reason for hope," and added that the US "strongly supports a peaceful transition of power to an accountable Syrian government".

"The Assad regime’s refusal since 2011 to engage in a credible political process and its reliance on the brutal support of Russia and Iran led inevitably to its own collapse," said Blinken.&nbsp;

"During this transitional period, the Syrian people have every right to demand the preservation of state institutions, the resumption of key services, and the protection of vulnerable communities," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation included “dozens of precision airstrikes” and more than 75 targets were hit using Air Force assets like B-52s, F-15s and A-10s in central Syria, CENTCOM said in a statement. “The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade and defeat ISIS, in order to prevent the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek to take advantage of the current situation to reconstitute in central Syria.” 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted dozens of precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and… pic.twitter.com/E7CUPuPehf — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 8, 2024 × CENTCOM said that they are carrying out damage assessments and there are no indications of any civilians getting killed in the operations. Also Read: Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war CENTCOM further said that it, along with partners and regional allies, will continue its operations to weaken the operational capabilities of ISIS during this "dynamic period in Syria." "There should be no doubt - we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria," said General Michael Erik Kurilla. "All organisations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way," he added. How did the US react to the fall of Damascus and the end of the Assad family's rule? The Syrian government fell on Sunday (Dec 8) and President Bashar Assad was toppled from his position, marking the end of his family’s 50-year rule after the rebels stormed the capital. Assad, along with his family, fled to Russia, where they were provided asylum. In the wake of the incidents, US President Joe Biden confirmed that the country will continue carrying out anti-ISIS operations. He said that the fall of Assad was a “fundamental act of justice” and added that the current phase was full of “risk and uncertainty.” Watch: Syria Civil War: Rebels Seize Control Of Damascus As Assad Flees To Russia In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the people of Syria "finally have a reason for hope," and added that the US "strongly supports a peaceful transition of power to an accountable Syrian government". "The Assad regime’s refusal since 2011 to engage in a credible political process and its reliance on the brutal support of Russia and Iran led inevitably to its own collapse," said Blinken. "During this transitional period, the Syrian people have every right to demand the preservation of state institutions, the resumption of key services, and the protection of vulnerable communities," he added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US conducts airstrikes on ISIS camps in Syria as Biden calls end of Assad regime an 'act of justice'

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday (December 8), in an interview with NBC News, said that he will go ahead with his deportation plans for all illegal immigrants after he enters the Oval Office and if the immigrants are part of a family, then the entire family will be deported.

However, he also assured that he would make it easier for people from other countries to come to the United States, a step which can benefit Indians who enter the US legally.

Speaking about his plans of deporting everyone who is living illegally in the United States, Trump said, “I think you have to do it. You have to have, rules, regulations, laws. They came in illegally. People that have been treated very unfairly are the people that have been online for 10 years to come into the country. We are going to make it very easy for people to come in terms of they have to pass the test. They have to be able to tell you what the Statue of Liberty is. They have to tell you a little bit about our country. They have to love our country."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-for-immediate-ceasefire-between-ukraine-and-russia-says-zelensky-is-ready-for-deal-782418">Donald Trump seeks 'immediate ceasefire' between Russia, Ukraine, says Assad fled as Moscow pulled support</a>

“They can't come out of prisons. We don't want people that are in for murder. So, we had 11,000 and 13,000 different estimates, 13,099 murderers released into our country over the last three years. They're walking down the streets. They're walking next to you and your family. They're very dangerous. You don't want those people in this country,” he added.

“We have to get the criminals out of our country. We have to get people that were taken out of mental institutions and put them back into their mental institution, no matter what country it is,” said the president-elect.

<h2>Don't want to break families: Trump on deportation of immigrants</h2>

When asked what would happen if some members of a family were staying in the US illegally and others were not, Trump said, “I don’t want to be breaking up families. So the only way you don’t break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back."

Watch:&nbsp;Trump: Will 'Probably' Cut Ukraine Aid

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-will-probably-cut-ukraine-aid-782528/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We don’t have to separate families. We’ll send the whole family very humanely, back to the country where they came. It depends on the family. If they come here illegally but their family is here legally, then the family has a choice. The person that came in illegally can go out, or they can all go out together," he added.

Trump also talked about&nbsp;repealing birthright citizenship.

“We have to end it,” he said while calling it “ridiculous", and added, “We’re the only country that has it, you know.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday (December 8), in an interview with NBC News, said that he will go ahead with his deportation plans for all illegal immigrants after he enters the Oval Office and if the immigrants are part of a family, then the entire family will be deported.

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday (December 8), in an interview with NBC News, said that he will go ahead with his deportation plans for all illegal immigrants after he enters the Oval Office and if the immigrants are part of a family, then the entire family will be deported. However, he also assured that he would make it easier for people from other countries to come to the United States, a step which can benefit Indians who enter the US legally. Speaking about his plans of deporting everyone who is living illegally in the United States, Trump said, “I think you have to do it. You have to have, rules, regulations, laws. They came in illegally. People that have been treated very unfairly are the people that have been online for 10 years to come into the country. We are going to make it very easy for people to come in terms of they have to pass the test. They have to be able to tell you what the Statue of Liberty is. They have to tell you a little bit about our country. They have to love our country." Also Read: Donald Trump seeks 'immediate ceasefire' between Russia, Ukraine, says Assad fled as Moscow pulled support “They can't come out of prisons. We don't want people that are in for murder. So, we had 11,000 and 13,000 different estimates, 13,099 murderers released into our country over the last three years. They're walking down the streets. They're walking next to you and your family. They're very dangerous. You don't want those people in this country,” he added. “We have to get the criminals out of our country. We have to get people that were taken out of mental institutions and put them back into their mental institution, no matter what country it is,” said the president-elect. Don't want to break families: Trump on deportation of immigrants When asked what would happen if some members of a family were staying in the US illegally and others were not, Trump said, “I don’t want to be breaking up families. So the only way you don’t break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back." Watch: Trump: Will 'Probably' Cut Ukraine Aid “We don’t have to separate families. We’ll send the whole family very humanely, back to the country where they came. It depends on the family. If they come here illegally but their family is here legally, then the family has a choice. The person that came in illegally can go out, or they can all go out together," he added. Trump also talked about repealing birthright citizenship. “We have to end it,” he said while calling it “ridiculous", and added, “We’re the only country that has it, you know.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump vows to deport families with 'illegal' members, but make legal migration easier

The&nbsp;Sri Lankan Navy&nbsp;apprehended eight Indian fishermen and captured two boats off the coast of Ramanathapuram on Sunday morning.

The apprehended fishermen who belong to Ramanathapuram have been identified as Mangadu Bhatrappan (55), Reddayurani, Kannan (52), Chinna ReddayurMuthuraj (55), Agasthiyar Kutam Kali (50) and Thangachimad Yasin (46), Jesus, Uchipulli Ramakrishnan and Velu including 8 fishermen was arrested and taken to the Kangesanturai Naval Camp.

According to the Mandapam Fishermen Association, the apprehended fishermen had gone to the sea from Mandapam. They were fishing in the Palk Bay Sea area when the Sri Lankan Navy came to the area early this morning claiming that the fishermen had crossed the border.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-and-sri-lankan-coast-guards-conduct-7th-high-level-meet-to-combat-transnational-maritime-crime-775329">Indian and Sri Lankan Coast Guards conduct 7th high-level meet, to combat transnational maritime crime</a>

The fishermen who went to sea in 324 boats from Mandapam north coast of Ramanathapuram district on December 7 were fishing near Delft Island in the Palk Bay Sea area when Sri Lanka Navy arrived in the area early this morning and captured two boats, IND TN 11 MM 81, barge owned by Mandapam Karthikaraja and IND TN 11 MM 231, boat owned by Thangachimadam Yasin. 2 mechanised boats.

According to the Mandapam Fishermen Association, the Sri Lankan Navy captured two boats belonging to Mandapam and apprehended 8 fishermen from the boat and took them to Kangesanthurai Naval Camp for investigation.

After investigation, the fishermen and the boat will be handed over to the&nbsp;Jaffna Fisheries Department&nbsp;officials.

This has created confusion among the fishermen.

The arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy have been a concerning issue for both the Tamil Nadu government as well as the BJP-led central government. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has written to EAM Jaishankar multiple times regarding the matter.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Coast Guard Rescues 7 Fishermen

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CM Stalin had previously said that the detention of fishermen and confiscation of their boats caused "serious distress and uncertainty" among the coastal communities." The detention of our fishermen and the confiscation of their boats cause serious distress and uncertainty among the coastal communities. I have repeatedly reiterated that concrete and proactive steps must be taken to resolve this festering issue diplomatically," he added.

Responding to one of his letters, Jaishankar assured him of proactive action on the issue and said that the Indian High Commission in Colombo and the Consulate in Jaffna have been expeditiously and consistently taking up such cases for the early release of those detained.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended eight Indian fishermen and captured two boats off the coast of Ramanathapuram on Sunday morning. The apprehended fishermen who belong to Ramanathapuram have been identified as Mangadu Bhatrappan (55), Reddayurani, Kannan (52), Chinna ReddayurMuthuraj (55), Agasthiyar Kutam Kali (50) and Thangachimad Yasin (46), Jesus, Uchipulli Ramakrishnan and Velu including 8 fishermen was arrested and taken to the Kangesanturai Naval Camp.

The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended eight Indian fishermen and captured two boats off the coast of Ramanathapuram on Sunday morning. The apprehended fishermen who belong to Ramanathapuram have been identified as Mangadu Bhatrappan (55), Reddayurani, Kannan (52), Chinna ReddayurMuthuraj (55), Agasthiyar Kutam Kali (50) and Thangachimad Yasin (46), Jesus, Uchipulli Ramakrishnan and Velu including 8 fishermen was arrested and taken to the Kangesanturai Naval Camp. According to the Mandapam Fishermen Association, the apprehended fishermen had gone to the sea from Mandapam. They were fishing in the Palk Bay Sea area when the Sri Lankan Navy came to the area early this morning claiming that the fishermen had crossed the border. Also Read: Indian and Sri Lankan Coast Guards conduct 7th high-level meet, to combat transnational maritime crime The fishermen who went to sea in 324 boats from Mandapam north coast of Ramanathapuram district on December 7 were fishing near Delft Island in the Palk Bay Sea area when Sri Lanka Navy arrived in the area early this morning and captured two boats, IND TN 11 MM 81, barge owned by Mandapam Karthikaraja and IND TN 11 MM 231, boat owned by Thangachimadam Yasin. 2 mechanised boats. According to the Mandapam Fishermen Association, the Sri Lankan Navy captured two boats belonging to Mandapam and apprehended 8 fishermen from the boat and took them to Kangesanthurai Naval Camp for investigation. After investigation, the fishermen and the boat will be handed over to the Jaffna Fisheries Department officials. This has created confusion among the fishermen. The arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy have been a concerning issue for both the Tamil Nadu government as well as the BJP-led central government. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has written to EAM Jaishankar multiple times regarding the matter. Watch: Indian Coast Guard Rescues 7 Fishermen CM Stalin had previously said that the detention of fishermen and confiscation of their boats caused "serious distress and uncertainty" among the coastal communities." The detention of our fishermen and the confiscation of their boats cause serious distress and uncertainty among the coastal communities. I have repeatedly reiterated that concrete and proactive steps must be taken to resolve this festering issue diplomatically," he added. Responding to one of his letters, Jaishankar assured him of proactive action on the issue and said that the Indian High Commission in Colombo and the Consulate in Jaffna have been expeditiously and consistently taking up such cases for the early release of those detained. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sri Lankan Navy apprehends eight Indian fishermen, captures two boats

As the winter spell sets in for the season, the air quality in the national capital remains in the 'poor' category, with thin layer of smog covering parts of the metropolitan city and and limiting visibility.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 231 as of 8.00 am on Monday morning.

The AQI for Alipur was recorded as 239, Anandpur 276, Ashok Vihar 254, Bawana 280, Burari Crossing 220, CRRI Mathura Road 152, DTU 196, Dwarka Sector 8 291, ITO 242, Lodhi Road 154, Mundka 315, Narela 249, North Campus 209, Pusa 170, Vivek Vihar 230.

Meanwhile, the homeless and those facing financial hardships took refuge in night shelter homes set up by the Delhi government amid the inclement weather conditions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-very-poor-air-chokes-economy-deals-300mn-blow-to-local-businesses-780483">Delhi’s ‘very poor’ air chokes economy, deals $300mn blow to local businesses</a>

Night shelters have been set up in several areas of the national capital including AIIMS, Lodhi Road and Nizamuddin flyover.

Visuals from a shelter home in Lodhi Road showed people residing inside the structures.

Arpita, a guard at the shelter home spoke to ANI and said, "I am a guard here. This place can provide shelter to 16-17 people. Right now, there are 14-15 people. There are beds here. This shelter is only for the women. We provide food two times a day. We have hot water, blankets and other amenities."

"A doctor comes to visit the shelter home twice a week. If anyone is suffering with any kind of an issue, they prescribe medicines. For the safety, there are guards and caretakers," she said.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, warning of moderate to dense fog in the morning and shallow fog or smog during the evening and night hours.

Parts of Delhi, including Kota House, Akbar Road, and Pandara Park, recorded light rains on Sunday evening.

The IMD has predicted a cold wave in West Rajasthan from December 9 to December 14, while Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, and West Uttar Pradesh will start experiencing similar conditions from December 11.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Delhi Schools To Resume Physical Classes As SC Eases Anti-Pollution Measures

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-delhi-schools-to-resume-physical-classes-as-sc-eases-anti-pollution-measures-781980/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Uttar Pradesh, people sat around the fire to warm themselves in Kanpur this winter morning as the minimum temperature dipped to 8°C as per the IMD.

The air quality in Agra city was recorded in the 'satisfactory' category this morning, as per CPCB.

Earlier, the Supreme Court allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP stage IV restrictions in Dehli-NCR to GRAP stage II in view of the betterment in the Air Quality Index (AQI).

Hours, after the Supreme Court permitted the relaxation of GRAP Stage IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR to GRAP Stage II, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), revoked Stages IV and III of GRAP in the region.

However, GRAP Stages II and I will continue to remain in force across the entire NCR.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

As the winter spell sets in for the season, the air quality in the national capital remains in the 'poor' category, with thin layer of smog covering parts of the metropolitan city and and limiting visibility.

As the winter spell sets in for the season, the air quality in the national capital remains in the 'poor' category, with thin layer of smog covering parts of the metropolitan city and and limiting visibility. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 231 as of 8.00 am on Monday morning. The AQI for Alipur was recorded as 239, Anandpur 276, Ashok Vihar 254, Bawana 280, Burari Crossing 220, CRRI Mathura Road 152, DTU 196, Dwarka Sector 8 291, ITO 242, Lodhi Road 154, Mundka 315, Narela 249, North Campus 209, Pusa 170, Vivek Vihar 230. Meanwhile, the homeless and those facing financial hardships took refuge in night shelter homes set up by the Delhi government amid the inclement weather conditions. Also Read: Delhi’s ‘very poor’ air chokes economy, deals $300mn blow to local businesses Night shelters have been set up in several areas of the national capital including AIIMS, Lodhi Road and Nizamuddin flyover. Visuals from a shelter home in Lodhi Road showed people residing inside the structures. Arpita, a guard at the shelter home spoke to ANI and said, "I am a guard here. This place can provide shelter to 16-17 people. Right now, there are 14-15 people. There are beds here. This shelter is only for the women. We provide food two times a day. We have hot water, blankets and other amenities." "A doctor comes to visit the shelter home twice a week. If anyone is suffering with any kind of an issue, they prescribe medicines. For the safety, there are guards and caretakers," she said. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, warning of moderate to dense fog in the morning and shallow fog or smog during the evening and night hours. Parts of Delhi, including Kota House, Akbar Road, and Pandara Park, recorded light rains on Sunday evening. The IMD has predicted a cold wave in West Rajasthan from December 9 to December 14, while Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, and West Uttar Pradesh will start experiencing similar conditions from December 11. Watch: India: Delhi Schools To Resume Physical Classes As SC Eases Anti-Pollution Measures In Uttar Pradesh, people sat around the fire to warm themselves in Kanpur this winter morning as the minimum temperature dipped to 8°C as per the IMD. The air quality in Agra city was recorded in the 'satisfactory' category this morning, as per CPCB. Earlier, the Supreme Court allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP stage IV restrictions in Dehli-NCR to GRAP stage II in view of the betterment in the Air Quality Index (AQI). Hours, after the Supreme Court permitted the relaxation of GRAP Stage IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR to GRAP Stage II, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), revoked Stages IV and III of GRAP in the region. However, GRAP Stages II and I will continue to remain in force across the entire NCR. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi's air quality still 'poor' after rains, smog's thin layer obstructs visibility

More than 40&nbsp;schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The&nbsp;schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School&nbsp;in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI.&nbsp;

According to Delhi Police, the email read,&nbsp;"I planted multiple bombs inside (school) buildings. The bombs are small and hidden very well. It will not cause much damage to the building, but many people will be injured when the bombs detonate. If I do not receive $30,000 I will detonate the bombs."

The email was sent to school authorities on Sunday night (Dec 8) at 11:38 pm local time.

The IP address of the sender is being investigated by the police.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Visuals from outside of DPS RK Puram - one of the two schools that receive bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning <a href="https://t.co/sQMOPh4opI">pic.twitter.com/sQMOPh4opI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1865941477836399089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The students were sent back to their homes by the school administration and police were informed about the incident, confirmed Delhi Police.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | A team of Delhi police arrives at RK Puram's DPS - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, this morning <a href="https://t.co/c23ciJTLGi">pic.twitter.com/c23ciJTLGi</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1865942440324346268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Visuals from outside of GD Goenka Public school, Paschim Vihar - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning <a href="https://t.co/XoIBJoVsVt">pic.twitter.com/XoIBJoVsVt</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1865949968705720334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The threats were revealed at peak hour in schools when buses were arriving, children were being dropped off by their parents and staff busy preparing for the morning assembly.

The schools informed the Delhi&nbsp;Fire Department of the threats at around 7 am local time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-meeting-called-by-indian-government-after-10-airplane-bomb-threats-in-last-24-hours-767775">Indian govt calls high-level meeting after hoax bomb threats affect over 10 flights in last 24 hours</a>

<h2>Hoax bomb threats across country&nbsp;</h2>

Bomb threats have been taking place in education institutions and airlines through much of this year in India, most of which turned out to be hoaxes.

In October, an explosion took place outside the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) school in the Prashant Vihar area of Rohini in Delhi. The wall of the school, vehicles and nearby shops were damaged.

On October 21, a bomb blast threat was sent to all CRPF schools through an email.

Watch:&nbsp;Hoax Bomb Threats Impact Several Indian Flights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hoax-bomb-threats-impact-several-indian-flights-768990/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On November 19, the Delhi High Court asked the state government and Delhi police to create a comprehensive action plan which included an extensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dealing with bomb threats as well as other such emergencies.

An eight-week deadline was set by the court for the completion of the plan. In the SOP, the officials were instructed to define the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders which included police, municipal authorities, school administration and other law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI.

More than 40 schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI. According to Delhi Police, the email read, "I planted multiple bombs inside (school) buildings. The bombs are small and hidden very well. It will not cause much damage to the building, but many people will be injured when the bombs detonate. If I do not receive $30,000 I will detonate the bombs." The email was sent to school authorities on Sunday night (Dec 8) at 11:38 pm local time. The IP address of the sender is being investigated by the police. #WATCH | Delhi | Visuals from outside of DPS RK Puram - one of the two schools that receive bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning pic.twitter.com/sQMOPh4opI — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × The students were sent back to their homes by the school administration and police were informed about the incident, confirmed Delhi Police. #WATCH | A team of Delhi police arrives at RK Puram's DPS - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, this morning pic.twitter.com/c23ciJTLGi — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × #WATCH | Delhi | Visuals from outside of GD Goenka Public school, Paschim Vihar - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning pic.twitter.com/XoIBJoVsVt — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × The threats were revealed at peak hour in schools when buses were arriving, children were being dropped off by their parents and staff busy preparing for the morning assembly. The schools informed the Delhi Fire Department of the threats at around 7 am local time. Also Read: Indian govt calls high-level meeting after hoax bomb threats affect over 10 flights in last 24 hours Hoax bomb threats across country Bomb threats have been taking place in education institutions and airlines through much of this year in India, most of which turned out to be hoaxes. In October, an explosion took place outside the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) school in the Prashant Vihar area of Rohini in Delhi. The wall of the school, vehicles and nearby shops were damaged. On October 21, a bomb blast threat was sent to all CRPF schools through an email. Watch: Hoax Bomb Threats Impact Several Indian Flights On November 19, the Delhi High Court asked the state government and Delhi police to create a comprehensive action plan which included an extensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dealing with bomb threats as well as other such emergencies. An eight-week deadline was set by the court for the completion of the plan. In the SOP, the officials were instructed to define the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders which included police, municipal authorities, school administration and other law enforcement agencies. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 schools in Indian capital Delhi receive bomb threats, children sent back

When the rebel groups stormed the capital city of Damascus on December 8, one of the first things they did was free the prisoners from the Sednaya prison.&nbsp;

However, now that the regime of President Bashar al-Assad has been toppled and Damascus has been seized, reports have emerged about the inaccessibility of subterranean cells that belong to the so-called “human slaughterhouse”.&nbsp;

Syrian Civil Defence forces, the White Helmets, expressed their fears of people being trapped inside these subterranean cells and said that five specialised emergency teams have been deployed at the Sednaya Prison to investigate the hidden cells.

The organisation said that the operation can be challenging and may cause delays.&nbsp;

“The White Helmets has deployed 5 specialised emergency teams to Sednaya Prison to investigate hidden underground cells, reportedly holding detainees according to survivors,” wrote The White Helmets on X.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-toppling-of-assad-us-airstrikes-isis-camps-hidden-in-syria-782556">US conducts airstrikes on ISIS camps in Syria as Biden calls end of Assad regime an 'act of justice'</a>

“The teams consist of search and rescue units, wall-breaching specialists, iron door-opening crews, trained dog units, and medical responders. These teams are well-trained and equipped to manage such complex operations,” stated the civil body.&nbsp;

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The White Helmets has deployed 5 specialized emergency teams to Sednaya Prison to investigate hidden underground cells, reportedly holding detainees according to survivors. The teams consist of search and rescue units, wall-breaching specialists, iron door-opening crews, trained…
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As per the authorities, two teams have already started their rescue operation, and soon others will be stationed.

“Two teams arrived about an hour ago and have already begun their mission, accompanied by a guide familiar with the prison’s layout. The remaining teams are expected to arrive gradually, delayed by challenging security conditions on the roads and severe traffic congestion,” said the body.

<h2>Prisoners freed from jail as Assad regime falls</h2>

Videos of rebels breaking the doors of the prison and freeing the inmates were shared and circulated on social media.

In the footage, thousands were seen leaving the prison as people screamed on the streets.

Watch:&nbsp;Assad's Ouster A Ray Of Hope For Gaza Hostages?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/assads-ouster-a-ray-of-hope-for-gaza-hostages-782645/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, the BBC reported that the Damascus Countryside Governorate took to social media to appeal to former soldiers and prison workers to share codes of electronic underground doors so that those locked inside them can be freed.

They said that they failed to open the doors to free “more than 100,000 detainees who can be seen on CCTV monitors”.&nbsp;

Efforts are also being made to knock out a lower wall using a type of post by the volunteers, as per Al Jazeera.

HTS, meanwhile, claimed that more than 3,500 detainees have been freed by them from the Homs Military Prison.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

When the rebel groups stormed the capital city of Damascus on December 8, one of the first things they did was free the prisoners from the Sednaya prison. However, now that the regime of President Bashar al-Assad has been toppled and Damascus has been seized, reports have emerged about the inaccessibility of subterranean cells that belong to the so-called “human slaughterhouse”.

When the rebel groups stormed the capital city of Damascus on December 8, one of the first things they did was free the prisoners from the Sednaya prison. However, now that the regime of President Bashar al-Assad has been toppled and Damascus has been seized, reports have emerged about the inaccessibility of subterranean cells that belong to the so-called “human slaughterhouse”. Syrian Civil Defence forces, the White Helmets, expressed their fears of people being trapped inside these subterranean cells and said that five specialised emergency teams have been deployed at the Sednaya Prison to investigate the hidden cells. The organisation said that the operation can be challenging and may cause delays. “The White Helmets has deployed 5 specialised emergency teams to Sednaya Prison to investigate hidden underground cells, reportedly holding detainees according to survivors,” wrote The White Helmets on X. Also Read: US conducts airstrikes on ISIS camps in Syria as Biden calls end of Assad regime an 'act of justice' “The teams consist of search and rescue units, wall-breaching specialists, iron door-opening crews, trained dog units, and medical responders. These teams are well-trained and equipped to manage such complex operations,” stated the civil body. The White Helmets has deployed 5 specialized emergency teams to Sednaya Prison to investigate hidden underground cells, reportedly holding detainees according to survivors. The teams consist of search and rescue units, wall-breaching specialists, iron door-opening crews, trained… — The White Helmets (@SyriaCivilDef) December 8, 2024 × As per the authorities, two teams have already started their rescue operation, and soon others will be stationed. “Two teams arrived about an hour ago and have already begun their mission, accompanied by a guide familiar with the prison’s layout. The remaining teams are expected to arrive gradually, delayed by challenging security conditions on the roads and severe traffic congestion,” said the body. Prisoners freed from jail as Assad regime falls Videos of rebels breaking the doors of the prison and freeing the inmates were shared and circulated on social media. In the footage, thousands were seen leaving the prison as people screamed on the streets. Watch: Assad's Ouster A Ray Of Hope For Gaza Hostages? Meanwhile, the BBC reported that the Damascus Countryside Governorate took to social media to appeal to former soldiers and prison workers to share codes of electronic underground doors so that those locked inside them can be freed. They said that they failed to open the doors to free “more than 100,000 detainees who can be seen on CCTV monitors”. Efforts are also being made to knock out a lower wall using a type of post by the volunteers, as per Al Jazeera. HTS, meanwhile, claimed that more than 3,500 detainees have been freed by them from the Homs Military Prison. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Are people trapped in hidden underground cells of notorious Syrian prison? White Helmets investigates

Considered by many as a terrorist, Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has emerged as the new face of the country after toppling Bashar al-Assad&nbsp;who fled to Russia.&nbsp;

Golani, once a key jihadist figure, lately started using his real name Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, including in an official communique issued on Thursday (Dec 5).

The step was taken to bolster the legitimacy of Golani as well as his Islamist militant group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).&nbsp;

In the last few days, Golani emerged as the face of the rebel factions and announced that the Syrian capital, Damascus has been captured in a move which changed the history of the country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-syrian-rebels-who-overthrew-bashar-al-assads-24-year-old-regime-782421">Who are the Syrian rebels who overthrew Bashar-al Assad's 24-year-old regime in two weeks?</a>

His transformation is not a recent development but something that happened over the years.

The man who once wore jihadist militant outfits has now added a Western-style wardrobe.

He led one of the swiftest offensive and emerged as the commander of the operations room.

<h2>Who is Abu Mohammed al-Golani?</h2>

Golani was born as Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa in 1982 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where his father worked as a petroleum engineer.

In 1989, the family came back to Syria and settled near Damascus.

In 2003, he moved to Iraq where he joined al Qaeda amid a resistance move against the US invasion in the same year.

In 2006, Golani was arrested by US forces in Iraq and kept in prison for five years.

Upon his release, he was given the task of establishing the Syrian branch of al Qaeda, known as al-Nusra Front.&nbsp;

The influence of the al-Nusra Front expanded in the opposition-held areas, especially Idlib.

In April 2013, the head of al Qaeda's “Islamic State in Iraq” Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi decided to cut ties with the terror group and expand his group in Syria, which would have led to the al-Nusra Front getting swallowed into a new group called ISIL.

However, Golani refused to cooperate with Baghdadi and maintained his allegiance to al Qaeda.

Watch:&nbsp;Syria War: France's Macron Welcomes Al-Assad's Fall, Hails Syrians Courage

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-war-frances-macron-welcomes-al-assads-fall-hails-syrians-courage-world-news-wion-782579/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After 2014, Golani stayed away from al Qaeda's project of establishing a “global caliphate” and focused on building his militant group within the borders of Syria.

In early 2017, Golani announced that he was merging with the groups of fighters who had poured into Idlib fleeing Aleppo and forming HTS.

The aim of HTS was Syria's liberation from the autocratic government of Assad, establishing a state which has its own interpretation of “Islamic law” and “expelling Iranian militias” from the country.

After achieving one of its targets, the HTS leader in his victory speech said, "This victory, my brothers, is historic for the region. Today, Syria is being purified" and added that "this victory is born from the people who have languished in prison, and the mujahideen (fighters) broke their chains".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Considered by many as a terrorist, Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has emerged as the new face of the country after toppling Bashar al-Assad who fled to Russia.

Considered by many as a terrorist, Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has emerged as the new face of the country after toppling Bashar al-Assad who fled to Russia. Golani, once a key jihadist figure, lately started using his real name Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, including in an official communique issued on Thursday (Dec 5). The step was taken to bolster the legitimacy of Golani as well as his Islamist militant group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). In the last few days, Golani emerged as the face of the rebel factions and announced that the Syrian capital, Damascus has been captured in a move which changed the history of the country. Also Read: Who are the Syrian rebels who overthrew Bashar-al Assad's 24-year-old regime in two weeks? His transformation is not a recent development but something that happened over the years. The man who once wore jihadist militant outfits has now added a Western-style wardrobe. He led one of the swiftest offensive and emerged as the commander of the operations room. Who is Abu Mohammed al-Golani? Golani was born as Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa in 1982 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where his father worked as a petroleum engineer. In 1989, the family came back to Syria and settled near Damascus. In 2003, he moved to Iraq where he joined al Qaeda amid a resistance move against the US invasion in the same year. In 2006, Golani was arrested by US forces in Iraq and kept in prison for five years. Upon his release, he was given the task of establishing the Syrian branch of al Qaeda, known as al-Nusra Front. The influence of the al-Nusra Front expanded in the opposition-held areas, especially Idlib. In April 2013, the head of al Qaeda's “Islamic State in Iraq” Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi decided to cut ties with the terror group and expand his group in Syria, which would have led to the al-Nusra Front getting swallowed into a new group called ISIL. However, Golani refused to cooperate with Baghdadi and maintained his allegiance to al Qaeda. Watch: Syria War: France's Macron Welcomes Al-Assad's Fall, Hails Syrians Courage After 2014, Golani stayed away from al Qaeda's project of establishing a “global caliphate” and focused on building his militant group within the borders of Syria. In early 2017, Golani announced that he was merging with the groups of fighters who had poured into Idlib fleeing Aleppo and forming HTS. The aim of HTS was Syria's liberation from the autocratic government of Assad, establishing a state which has its own interpretation of “Islamic law” and “expelling Iranian militias” from the country. After achieving one of its targets, the HTS leader in his victory speech said, "This victory, my brothers, is historic for the region. Today, Syria is being purified" and added that "this victory is born from the people who have languished in prison, and the mujahideen (fighters) broke their chains". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Abu Mohammed al-Golani: Face of Syria's rebels and head of HTS who overthrew Assad

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