As Saudi Arabia opens to the world, a look at its key tourist spots

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport.

Khan and his entourage left New York at around 2 pm (local time) and are enroute to Jeddah on a Saudi Airlines` flight. The plane is expected to make a technical halt in Jeddah on Sunday at around 8:40 am, The Dawn reported.

After a brief stopover in Jeddah, Khan is expected to reach Pakistan on Sunday evening.

On Friday evening, Khan and his delegation had departed from New York`s John F Kennedy International Airport on the special jet given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, during the prime minister`s visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this month.

However, the aircraft turned back and made an emergency landing at the New York airport after a technical glitch developed.

Pakistan`s envoy to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, who had earlier seen off Khan, rushed back to the airport.

Khan and his entourage waited at the airport for some time as technicians were trying to fix the fault. However, the technicians said that glitch would be rectified by Saturday morning.

Lodhi, meanwhile, had escorted Khan back to the Roosevelt Hotel in the city, where he was staying during his week-long visit to the US for attending the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

Officials had remarked earlier that if the plane is not fixed by Saturday morning, Khan would take a commercial flight back to Pakistan.

On Friday, Khan had delivered his maiden speech at the UNGA, which exceeded the allotted time limit of around 15 to 20 minutes. In his over half-an-hour speech, Khan continued his anti-India rant over Kashmir, drumming up hysteria over a nuclear war with India.

Hitting back at Khan`s anti-India rhetoric address, India said the Pakistan Prime Minister`s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship and not statesmanship.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport. Khan and his entourage left New York at around 2 pm (local time) and are enroute to Jeddah on a Saudi Airlines` flight. The plane is expected to make a technical halt in Jeddah on Sunday at around 8:40 am, The Dawn reported. After a brief stopover in Jeddah, Khan is expected to reach Pakistan on Sunday evening. On Friday evening, Khan and his delegation had departed from New York`s John F Kennedy International Airport on the special jet given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, during the prime minister`s visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this month. However, the aircraft turned back and made an emergency landing at the New York airport after a technical glitch developed. Pakistan`s envoy to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, who had earlier seen off Khan, rushed back to the airport. Khan and his entourage waited at the airport for some time as technicians were trying to fix the fault. However, the technicians said that glitch would be rectified by Saturday morning. Lodhi, meanwhile, had escorted Khan back to the Roosevelt Hotel in the city, where he was staying during his week-long visit to the US for attending the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Officials had remarked earlier that if the plane is not fixed by Saturday morning, Khan would take a commercial flight back to Pakistan. On Friday, Khan had delivered his maiden speech at the UNGA, which exceeded the allotted time limit of around 15 to 20 minutes. In his over half-an-hour speech, Khan continued his anti-India rant over Kashmir, drumming up hysteria over a nuclear war with India. Hitting back at Khan`s anti-India rhetoric address, India said the Pakistan Prime Minister`s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship and not statesmanship.

After hours-long delay, Imran Khan departs for Pakistan on commercial aircraft

Hong Kong descended into a second day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-to-rally-after-another-night-of-violence-252647">clashes between protestors and riot police</a> on Sunday with officers firing tear gas in a busy shopping district.

Pro-democracy activists have stepped up their four-month-long campaign in the financial hub ahead of celebrations planned for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-set-busy-schedule-ahead-of-china-national-day-252568">70th anniversary of communist China</a>'s founding from Tuesday.&nbsp;

Police fired tear gas at protestors in Causeway Bay after angry crowds surrounded and heckled officers who had conducted stop and searches and then made a series of arrests.

The latest violence came after officers used tear gas, pepper spray and water cannon trucks on Saturday night to beat back hardcore activists who were throwing rocks and petrol bombs at government offices.

China is preparing for huge, tightly choreographed festivities including a huge military parade in Beijing to revel in the country's emergence as a global superpower.

But ongoing unrest in Hong Kong threatens to upstage those celebrations as the semi-autonomous city boils with public anger over the erosion of its special freedoms under Beijing's rule.

Watch: Violence resumes on the streets of Hong Kong

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Over the last 17 weeks, Hong Kong has witnessed the worst political unrest since its handover to China in 1997 with huge pro-democracy rallies as well as increasingly intense clashes.&nbsp;

The city's summer of discontent -- first triggered by an extradition bill to the mainland that has since been shelved -- has morphed into a call for free elections and less intervention from Beijing.

Activists had vowed a series of rallies in the days leading up to Tuesday's anniversary.&nbsp;

On Friday and Saturday night, tens of thousands of people turned out for two peaceful rallies.

Saturday night's clashes took place on the sidelines of a large gathering but gave a taste of what is expected to be a tense few days.

Global protests

Online forums used by the largely leaderless protest movement had encouraged protestors to meet on Sunday afternoon in Causeway Bay to take part in a "anti-totalitarianism" rally -- part of a series of protests held around the globe this weekend by Beijing critics.

But police flooded the area ahead of the planned gathering, stopping and searching a number of people.

In a now familiar pattern, crowds began heckling officers, shouting slogans such as "corrupt cops" and "triads".

After a bottle was thrown towards officers, tear gas quickly followed.

The clouds of acrid smoke sent people scattering, but crowds soon reformed and began marching down a main road leading through the city.

Under the policy of "one country, two systems", China has offered tiny Hong Kong certain liberties denied to citizens on the mainland -– including freedom of expression, unfettered access to the internet and an independent judiciary.

But the arrangement is due to expire in 2047 and many accuse Beijing of eroding some of those freedoms in recent years.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong descended into a second day of clashes between protestors and riot police on Sunday with officers firing tear gas in a busy shopping district. Pro-democracy activists have stepped up their four-month-long campaign in the financial hub ahead of celebrations planned for the 70th anniversary of communist China's founding from Tuesday.

Hong Kong descended into a second day of clashes between protestors and riot police on Sunday with officers firing tear gas in a busy shopping district. Pro-democracy activists have stepped up their four-month-long campaign in the financial hub ahead of celebrations planned for the 70th anniversary of communist China's founding from Tuesday. Police fired tear gas at protestors in Causeway Bay after angry crowds surrounded and heckled officers who had conducted stop and searches and then made a series of arrests. The latest violence came after officers used tear gas, pepper spray and water cannon trucks on Saturday night to beat back hardcore activists who were throwing rocks and petrol bombs at government offices. China is preparing for huge, tightly choreographed festivities including a huge military parade in Beijing to revel in the country's emergence as a global superpower. But ongoing unrest in Hong Kong threatens to upstage those celebrations as the semi-autonomous city boils with public anger over the erosion of its special freedoms under Beijing's rule. Watch: Violence resumes on the streets of Hong Kong × Over the last 17 weeks, Hong Kong has witnessed the worst political unrest since its handover to China in 1997 with huge pro-democracy rallies as well as increasingly intense clashes. The city's summer of discontent -- first triggered by an extradition bill to the mainland that has since been shelved -- has morphed into a call for free elections and less intervention from Beijing. Activists had vowed a series of rallies in the days leading up to Tuesday's anniversary. On Friday and Saturday night, tens of thousands of people turned out for two peaceful rallies. Saturday night's clashes took place on the sidelines of a large gathering but gave a taste of what is expected to be a tense few days. Global protests Online forums used by the largely leaderless protest movement had encouraged protestors to meet on Sunday afternoon in Causeway Bay to take part in a "anti-totalitarianism" rally -- part of a series of protests held around the globe this weekend by Beijing critics. But police flooded the area ahead of the planned gathering, stopping and searching a number of people. In a now familiar pattern, crowds began heckling officers, shouting slogans such as "corrupt cops" and "triads". After a bottle was thrown towards officers, tear gas quickly followed. The clouds of acrid smoke sent people scattering, but crowds soon reformed and began marching down a main road leading through the city. Under the policy of "one country, two systems", China has offered tiny Hong Kong certain liberties denied to citizens on the mainland -– including freedom of expression, unfettered access to the internet and an independent judiciary. But the arrangement is due to expire in 2047 and many accuse Beijing of eroding some of those freedoms in recent years.

Hong Kong unrest: Police fire tear gas at protestors in shopping district

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud.

Afghans went to the polls Saturday to vote in the first round of a presidential race that will decide whether President Ashraf Ghani will win a second five-year term.

About 9.6 million Afghans in the war-torn nation -- with an estimated population of 35 million -- had registered to vote in the election, which was held at some 4,900 polling stations.

An initial tally released early Sunday by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission showed that with data from slightly more than half the stations, just under 1.1 million people had voted.

If that turnout trend holds, it would represent a participation level of less than 25 per cent -- lower than any of Afghanistan's three previous presidential elections.&nbsp;

In 2014, for instance, turnout was a little under 50 per cent, although direct comparisons are tough because previous polls were tainted by allegations of systemic fraud.

Authorities heralded Saturday's election as a success because the Taliban were unable to pull off a large-scale attack resulting in high casualty numbers.&nbsp;

But the insurgents nonetheless pushed their offensive on the democratic process, conducting a string of bombings at polling stations and engaging Afghan security forces in clashes across the country.

According to the Afghanistan Analysts Network, which compiled incidents through various sources, more than 400 attacks had been reported over the course of the election day.

The Taliban claimed to have conducted 531 attacks, while the interior ministry said "the enemy" had carried out 68 assaults.

The official death toll is five security forces. But in years past, authorities have suppressed information on election day only to later give larger numbers.

'Much cleaner'

In addition to security threats, turnout was hampered by scepticism about the electoral process.&nbsp;

Previous polls, including the 2014 presidential election, were undermined by widespread allegations of vote-buying, ballot stuffing and fraud.&nbsp;

And the election campaign itself seemed almost moribund during the two months of campaigning because many thought the poll -- already twice delayed while the US and the Taliban tried to negotiate a troop withdrawal deal -- would be pushed back yet again.&nbsp;

It was only after US President Donald Trump scuppered those talks on September 7 that candidates really believed the election would take place, leaving little time for them to campaign.

Turnout was low because of security threats and "the weak campaigning of the candidates" political analyst and Kabul academic Atta Noori told AFP.

"It is not because they were not interested to vote," he said.

Independent political analyst Haroun Mir said that even with a low turnout, the election could be considered a victory for the democratic process because it was "much cleaner" than previous polls.&nbsp;

Election officials have said the result would be the purest yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers ensuring the vote was fair.

Results are not expected until October 19. Candidates need more than 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outright winner, or else the top two will head for a second round in November.

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud.

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud. Afghans went to the polls Saturday to vote in the first round of a presidential race that will decide whether President Ashraf Ghani will win a second five-year term. About 9.6 million Afghans in the war-torn nation -- with an estimated population of 35 million -- had registered to vote in the election, which was held at some 4,900 polling stations. An initial tally released early Sunday by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission showed that with data from slightly more than half the stations, just under 1.1 million people had voted. If that turnout trend holds, it would represent a participation level of less than 25 per cent -- lower than any of Afghanistan's three previous presidential elections. In 2014, for instance, turnout was a little under 50 per cent, although direct comparisons are tough because previous polls were tainted by allegations of systemic fraud. Authorities heralded Saturday's election as a success because the Taliban were unable to pull off a large-scale attack resulting in high casualty numbers. But the insurgents nonetheless pushed their offensive on the democratic process, conducting a string of bombings at polling stations and engaging Afghan security forces in clashes across the country. According to the Afghanistan Analysts Network, which compiled incidents through various sources, more than 400 attacks had been reported over the course of the election day. The Taliban claimed to have conducted 531 attacks, while the interior ministry said "the enemy" had carried out 68 assaults. The official death toll is five security forces. But in years past, authorities have suppressed information on election day only to later give larger numbers. 'Much cleaner' In addition to security threats, turnout was hampered by scepticism about the electoral process. Previous polls, including the 2014 presidential election, were undermined by widespread allegations of vote-buying, ballot stuffing and fraud. And the election campaign itself seemed almost moribund during the two months of campaigning because many thought the poll -- already twice delayed while the US and the Taliban tried to negotiate a troop withdrawal deal -- would be pushed back yet again. It was only after US President Donald Trump scuppered those talks on September 7 that candidates really believed the election would take place, leaving little time for them to campaign. Turnout was low because of security threats and "the weak campaigning of the candidates" political analyst and Kabul academic Atta Noori told AFP. "It is not because they were not interested to vote," he said. Independent political analyst Haroun Mir said that even with a low turnout, the election could be considered a victory for the democratic process because it was "much cleaner" than previous polls. Election officials have said the result would be the purest yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers ensuring the vote was fair. Results are not expected until October 19. Candidates need more than 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outright winner, or else the top two will head for a second round in November.

Attacks, fraud fears dampen turnout in Afghan election

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke about initiating a 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' campaign to honour the girls who have brought a change in society.

Addressing the citizen of the country during 57th episode of 'Mann ki Baat', Modi announced starting this campaign during Diwali and called on citizens to outline the achievements of 'daughters' of the country using BharatKiLaxmi hashtag.

"There must be numerous daughters amongst us who, through their perseverance, diligence and talent have brought glory to their families, society and the country. This Diwali, can we arrange programmes to honour the Laxmi of India?" Modi said.

"This time, let us do campaign #Bharatkilaxmi. Encouraging the Laxmi of Bharat amounts to strengthening the paths of prosperity for the country and her citizens," he added.

The Prime Minister also said that while in Diwali every household welcomes Goddess Laxmi, the time was now ripe to honour the daughters of the nation, and also implored people to make it a social media campaign along the lines of #selfiewithdaughter.

"My dear brothers and sisters, Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, makes an entry into each and every household in the form of fortune and prosperity during Diwali... We could do something more, we could highlight the achievements of India's daughters by sharing their achievements on social media, using the hashtag #Bharatkilaxmi. The way we jointly ran a mega campaign "#Selfiwithdaughter", which spread globally," he said.

Earlier, during his address, the Prime Minister had also urged people to share the surplus goods, sweets and anything which they no longer needed with the deprived section of the society so that every family in the country gets to enjoy the festive season.

"My dear countrymen, with the advent of Navaratri today, the air is bound to be full of new hopes, new energy and new resolves, once again. After all, it's the festival season. During festivals, families come together. Homes will be filled with joy! But... you must have felt this... there are many people around us who remain deprived of these celebrations," Modi said.

"On one hand, when we experience the 'Delivery In' of sweets, and gifts let us think for a moment on the process of 'Delivery Out'. At least in our homes, items that are in excess and thus, not required anymore, could be allocated for 'Delivery Out'," he added.&nbsp; 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke about initiating a 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' campaign to honour the girls who have brought a change in society. Addressing the citizen of the country during 57th episode of 'Mann ki Baat', Modi announced starting this campaign during Diwali and called on citizens to outline the achievements of 'daughters' of the country using BharatKiLaxmi hashtag.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke about initiating a 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' campaign to honour the girls who have brought a change in society. Addressing the citizen of the country during 57th episode of 'Mann ki Baat', Modi announced starting this campaign during Diwali and called on citizens to outline the achievements of 'daughters' of the country using BharatKiLaxmi hashtag. "There must be numerous daughters amongst us who, through their perseverance, diligence and talent have brought glory to their families, society and the country. This Diwali, can we arrange programmes to honour the Laxmi of India?" Modi said. "This time, let us do campaign #Bharatkilaxmi. Encouraging the Laxmi of Bharat amounts to strengthening the paths of prosperity for the country and her citizens," he added. The Prime Minister also said that while in Diwali every household welcomes Goddess Laxmi, the time was now ripe to honour the daughters of the nation, and also implored people to make it a social media campaign along the lines of #selfiewithdaughter. "My dear brothers and sisters, Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, makes an entry into each and every household in the form of fortune and prosperity during Diwali... We could do something more, we could highlight the achievements of India's daughters by sharing their achievements on social media, using the hashtag #Bharatkilaxmi. The way we jointly ran a mega campaign "#Selfiwithdaughter", which spread globally," he said. Earlier, during his address, the Prime Minister had also urged people to share the surplus goods, sweets and anything which they no longer needed with the deprived section of the society so that every family in the country gets to enjoy the festive season. "My dear countrymen, with the advent of Navaratri today, the air is bound to be full of new hopes, new energy and new resolves, once again. After all, it's the festival season. During festivals, families come together. Homes will be filled with joy! But... you must have felt this... there are many people around us who remain deprived of these celebrations," Modi said. "On one hand, when we experience the 'Delivery In' of sweets, and gifts let us think for a moment on the process of 'Delivery Out'. At least in our homes, items that are in excess and thus, not required anymore, could be allocated for 'Delivery Out'," he added.

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi calls for campaign to honour achievements of nation's daughters

The whistleblower whose complaint has shaken the <a href="Watch: Trump meets Ukraine's Zelensky at United Nations">foundations of Donald Trump's presidency</a> is a male officer of the Central Intelligence Agency who was seconded to the White House, the New York Times reported Thursday.

The man "was detailed to work at the White House at one point" but has since returned to the CIA, the Times said, citing three people familiar with his identity.

The complaint, which describes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-zelensky-calls-controversial-donald-trump-call-normal-252078">Trump using his powers to pressure the Ukraine government</a> to find damaging information on Democratic political rival Joe Biden, "suggested he was an analyst by training and made clear he was steeped in details of American foreign policy toward Europe," the Times said.

Watch: Trump meets Ukraine's Zelensky at United Nations

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He also was clearly knowledgable about Ukrainian politics and Washington's relations with Kiev, which Trump is accused of manipulating to gain an advantage in next year's presidential election.

It was the first indication of the whistleblower's identity, other than previous statements saying it was either a man or a woman from the nearly million-strong intelligence community.

The person's identity is protected by US laws supporting officials who go through proper channels to report gross misconduct by their colleagues or superiors.

But the person is expected to testify soon behind closed doors in Congress, raising the prospect of exposure as more and more people to learn their identity.

The whistleblower whose complaint has shaken the foundations of Donald Trump's presidency is a male officer of the Central Intelligence Agency who was seconded to the White House, the New York Times reported Thursday.

The whistleblower whose complaint has shaken the foundations of Donald Trump's presidency is a male officer of the Central Intelligence Agency who was seconded to the White House, the New York Times reported Thursday. The man "was detailed to work at the White House at one point" but has since returned to the CIA, the Times said, citing three people familiar with his identity. The complaint, which describes Trump using his powers to pressure the Ukraine government to find damaging information on Democratic political rival Joe Biden, "suggested he was an analyst by training and made clear he was steeped in details of American foreign policy toward Europe," the Times said. Watch: Trump meets Ukraine's Zelensky at United Nations × He also was clearly knowledgable about Ukrainian politics and Washington's relations with Kiev, which Trump is accused of manipulating to gain an advantage in next year's presidential election. It was the first indication of the whistleblower's identity, other than previous statements saying it was either a man or a woman from the nearly million-strong intelligence community. The person's identity is protected by US laws supporting officials who go through proper channels to report gross misconduct by their colleagues or superiors. But the person is expected to testify soon behind closed doors in Congress, raising the prospect of exposure as more and more people to learn their identity.

Whistleblower in Donald Trump Ukraine scandal a CIA officer: Report

A day after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) announced to contest Haryana assembly elections on its own, Punjab`s BJP unit president Shwait Malik on Friday said the two parties would be contesting the assembly by-elections together in the state.

Speaking to ANI, Malik said, "The bond between the two parties is very old. BJP and SAD will be contesting the Punjab assembly bye-elections together."

"It was the Akali Dal`s decision to contest on its own in Haryana (assembly polls) but our alliance will continue in Punjab for the polls," he added.

Malik further said that the party would soon announce the candidates for the four seats.

Attacking Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Malik claimed that the public are disillusioned with the current state government.

"People are disillusioned with the Congress government in the state. Sand and liquor mafias are roaming freely, while the law and order situation in the state is in very bad shape," he stated.

"There is only one slogan in Punjab -- `Rota Hai Punjab, Kyu Banayi Captain Ki Sarkar (Punjab is crying why did we vote for Captain (Amarinder Singh)`s government)," said Malik.

The by-elections to four assembly seats in Punjab are likely to witness a three-cornered clash among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the SAD-BJP alliance and the ruling Congress.

The by-polls in all four assembly seats of the state are scheduled to take place on October 21. The results will be declared on October 24.&nbsp;

A day after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) announced to contest Haryana assembly elections on its own, Punjab`s BJP unit president Shwait Malik on Friday said the two parties would be contesting the assembly by-elections together in the state.

A day after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) announced to contest Haryana assembly elections on its own, Punjab`s BJP unit president Shwait Malik on Friday said the two parties would be contesting the assembly by-elections together in the state. Speaking to ANI, Malik said, "The bond between the two parties is very old. BJP and SAD will be contesting the Punjab assembly bye-elections together." "It was the Akali Dal`s decision to contest on its own in Haryana (assembly polls) but our alliance will continue in Punjab for the polls," he added. Malik further said that the party would soon announce the candidates for the four seats. Attacking Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Malik claimed that the public are disillusioned with the current state government. "People are disillusioned with the Congress government in the state. Sand and liquor mafias are roaming freely, while the law and order situation in the state is in very bad shape," he stated. "There is only one slogan in Punjab -- `Rota Hai Punjab, Kyu Banayi Captain Ki Sarkar (Punjab is crying why did we vote for Captain (Amarinder Singh)`s government)," said Malik. The by-elections to four assembly seats in Punjab are likely to witness a three-cornered clash among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the SAD-BJP alliance and the ruling Congress. The by-polls in all four assembly seats of the state are scheduled to take place on October 21. The results will be declared on October 24.

BJP, SAD to contest Punjab assembly by-polls together: BJP unit president Shwait Malik

An Indian Army Cheetah chopper crashed near Yongphulla in Bhutan on Friday killing both its pilots including a Bhutanese Army Captain.

The two pilots have been identified as Lieutenant Colonel Rajneesh Parmar of Indian Army and Captain Kalzang Wangdi of Royal Bhutan Army.

The single-engine Cheetah Helicopter of the Indian Army was on duty en-route from Khirmu (Arunanchal) to Yongfulla (Bhutan) when it crashed near Yongphulla at about 1 pm, Army Spokesperson Col Aman Anand said.

The chopper belonged to Indian Army`s 667 Army Aviation Squadron based in Misamari in Assam.

The chopper was returning after a commitment with an Indian Army Major General posted with Indian Army Military Training Team (IMTRAT) deployed in Bhutan, Indian Army sources said.

As a part of the arrangement between Indian and Bhutan, Bhutanese pilots have been training with the Indian Army since 2014-15.

Cheetahs are 1960 vintage planes which have been in the Indian Army for the last over 40 years and several attempts to replace them have failed due to one reason or the other.

"In an unfortunate incident, an Indian Army Helicopter has crashed at 1 pm near Yongphulla in Bhutan. The helicopter went out of radio and visual contact soon after 1 pm. The helicopter was on way from Khirmu (Arunanchal) to Yongphulla on duty," said Anand.

"Ground search and rescue were launched immediately from Yongphulla. The wreckage has been located," he said.&nbsp;

An Indian Army Cheetah chopper crashed near Yongphulla in Bhutan on Friday killing both its pilots including a Bhutanese Army Captain. The two pilots have been identified as Lieutenant Colonel Rajneesh Parmar of Indian Army and Captain Kalzang Wangdi of Royal Bhutan Army.

An Indian Army Cheetah chopper crashed near Yongphulla in Bhutan on Friday killing both its pilots including a Bhutanese Army Captain. The two pilots have been identified as Lieutenant Colonel Rajneesh Parmar of Indian Army and Captain Kalzang Wangdi of Royal Bhutan Army. The single-engine Cheetah Helicopter of the Indian Army was on duty en-route from Khirmu (Arunanchal) to Yongfulla (Bhutan) when it crashed near Yongphulla at about 1 pm, Army Spokesperson Col Aman Anand said. The chopper belonged to Indian Army`s 667 Army Aviation Squadron based in Misamari in Assam. The chopper was returning after a commitment with an Indian Army Major General posted with Indian Army Military Training Team (IMTRAT) deployed in Bhutan, Indian Army sources said. As a part of the arrangement between Indian and Bhutan, Bhutanese pilots have been training with the Indian Army since 2014-15. Cheetahs are 1960 vintage planes which have been in the Indian Army for the last over 40 years and several attempts to replace them have failed due to one reason or the other. "In an unfortunate incident, an Indian Army Helicopter has crashed at 1 pm near Yongphulla in Bhutan. The helicopter went out of radio and visual contact soon after 1 pm. The helicopter was on way from Khirmu (Arunanchal) to Yongphulla on duty," said Anand. "Ground search and rescue were launched immediately from Yongphulla. The wreckage has been located," he said.

Indian Army chopper crashes in Bhutan, both pilots killed

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk

The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case.&nbsp;

The agency said that all those who have fled the country were all respectable and responsible businessmen of the society and this is a serious case where a person knows he may be punished.&nbsp;

He is powerful, influential and economically strong enough to settle down in another country.

Senior Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram said he is not at flight risk and there is no evidence of me tampering with evidence.&nbsp;

"All the persons concerned have given their statements and all documents are in the files. Why the prosecution agency wants P Chidambaram to continue to be in jail? P Chidambaram`s is in their Custody (CBI custody and Judicial custody) since 40 days now," he said.

CBI through SG Tushar Mehta further told the Delhi High Court that Chidambaram putting out tweets (through his family members) on the merits of the INX media case is an attempt to influence the case and the investigation.&nbsp;

"There has been a tendency that influential people have been influencing proceedings through social media," he added.&nbsp;

On CBI allegations that P Chidambaram had met Indrani Mukharji, Sibal said that the Congress leader has never met Indrani Mukherjee at any stage.&nbsp;

"Peter Mukharjee also said in a confrontation that Indrani was not the part of the delegation. Indrani is in custody for the allegation of the murder of her own daughter. Her statement can`t be relied upon," he said.&nbsp;

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait who is hearing the bail plea of P Chidambaram reserved the order P Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on 21st August in INX media case and currently in judicial custody and lodged in Tihar Jail.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for Chidambaram also stated, "After spending 40 days in prison, he will flee? They have to justify each day of incarceration. What is it that you cannot do outside jail but can do inside it."&nbsp;

A Delhi court on September 19 extended Chidambaram`s judicial custody till October 3 in a corruption case filed by the CBI.

Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on August 21. At present, he is in judicial custody in Tihar Jail.

He is facing a probe by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting the clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007.

Earlier in the day, the Court had reserved the order on Chidambaram`s bail plea in the INX Media case.

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait reserved the order after the lawyers from both sides concluded their arguments.

Chidambaram was the Finance Minister when the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) gave Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) clearance to INX Media in 2007. He is facing probe by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore. 
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Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case.

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case. The agency said that all those who have fled the country were all respectable and responsible businessmen of the society and this is a serious case where a person knows he may be punished. He is powerful, influential and economically strong enough to settle down in another country. Senior Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram said he is not at flight risk and there is no evidence of me tampering with evidence. "All the persons concerned have given their statements and all documents are in the files. Why the prosecution agency wants P Chidambaram to continue to be in jail? P Chidambaram`s is in their Custody (CBI custody and Judicial custody) since 40 days now," he said. CBI through SG Tushar Mehta further told the Delhi High Court that Chidambaram putting out tweets (through his family members) on the merits of the INX media case is an attempt to influence the case and the investigation. "There has been a tendency that influential people have been influencing proceedings through social media," he added. On CBI allegations that P Chidambaram had met Indrani Mukharji, Sibal said that the Congress leader has never met Indrani Mukherjee at any stage. "Peter Mukharjee also said in a confrontation that Indrani was not the part of the delegation. Indrani is in custody for the allegation of the murder of her own daughter. Her statement can`t be relied upon," he said. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait who is hearing the bail plea of P Chidambaram reserved the order P Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on 21st August in INX media case and currently in judicial custody and lodged in Tihar Jail. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for Chidambaram also stated, "After spending 40 days in prison, he will flee? They have to justify each day of incarceration. What is it that you cannot do outside jail but can do inside it." A Delhi court on September 19 extended Chidambaram`s judicial custody till October 3 in a corruption case filed by the CBI. Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on August 21. At present, he is in judicial custody in Tihar Jail. He is facing a probe by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting the clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007. Earlier in the day, the Court had reserved the order on Chidambaram`s bail plea in the INX Media case. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait reserved the order after the lawyers from both sides concluded their arguments. Chidambaram was the Finance Minister when the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) gave Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) clearance to INX Media in 2007. He is facing probe by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore.

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram's flight risk

A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly.

The initiative was part of the continuing campaign by human rights campaigners from the World Baloch Organisation (WBO) to highlight the dire human rights situation in Balochistan and attempt to bring international attention to the grave issue.

The mineral-rich restive region in Pakistan has for decades been subjected to Pakistan military's oppressive rule.

The plane flew down the Hudson River along the city's skyline and circled ten times around the Statue of Liberty, the symbol of hope and freedom, grabbing the attention of thousands from the city and on Liberty Island.

The WBO believes the banners will serve as a reminder to world powers in the city to speak up against the dire human rights situation in Balochistan where there is a state-imposed media black-out.

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, 5000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved.

Independent local and international human rights organisations have put the numbers much higher.&nbsp;

20,000 people have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture.

Earlier billboards were also seen in the city carrying messages such as "Baloch Lives Also Matter" and "Justice for Balochistan" in a bid to capture the attention of thousands of people who are in the city to attend the General assembly.

Pakistan`s establishment has been long criticized over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue.

Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple TV interviews the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Families of the abducted victims have long been protesting for the safe recovery of their loved ones in the provincial capital Quetta, and their protest camp has now completed more than 3500 days.

Organisers of the campaign have been engaged in efforts to highlight the worsening human rights situation in Balochistan at international platforms, organising events around Europe and in the United States and focusing on advocacy activities in the European Parliament, the US parliamentary houses, and the United Nations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly.

A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly. The initiative was part of the continuing campaign by human rights campaigners from the World Baloch Organisation (WBO) to highlight the dire human rights situation in Balochistan and attempt to bring international attention to the grave issue. The mineral-rich restive region in Pakistan has for decades been subjected to Pakistan military's oppressive rule. The plane flew down the Hudson River along the city's skyline and circled ten times around the Statue of Liberty, the symbol of hope and freedom, grabbing the attention of thousands from the city and on Liberty Island. The WBO believes the banners will serve as a reminder to world powers in the city to speak up against the dire human rights situation in Balochistan where there is a state-imposed media black-out. According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, 5000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved. Independent local and international human rights organisations have put the numbers much higher. 20,000 people have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture. Earlier billboards were also seen in the city carrying messages such as "Baloch Lives Also Matter" and "Justice for Balochistan" in a bid to capture the attention of thousands of people who are in the city to attend the General assembly. Pakistan`s establishment has been long criticized over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue. Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple TV interviews the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible. Families of the abducted victims have long been protesting for the safe recovery of their loved ones in the provincial capital Quetta, and their protest camp has now completed more than 3500 days. Organisers of the campaign have been engaged in efforts to highlight the worsening human rights situation in Balochistan at international platforms, organising events around Europe and in the United States and focusing on advocacy activities in the European Parliament, the US parliamentary houses, and the United Nations.

US: Plane circles Statue of Liberty with message urging UN to help end rights abuses in Balochistan

Troops of India and Thailand participated in the annual joint military exercise MAITREE on Friday.

The Indian Army and the Royal Thailand Army troops participated in the field exercise of joint planning, helicopter insertion, and joint counter-terrorism operations.

The duration of this exercise is forty-eight hours.

The India Army and Royal Thailand Army Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-2019 commenced at Umroi in Meghalaya on September 16.

The annual bilateral joint exercise started off at the Joint Training Node (JTN) in Umroi. The exercise aims at the training of troops in Counter-Terrorism Operation in both jungle terrain and urban scenario. 
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Troops of India and Thailand participated in the annual joint military exercise MAITREE on Friday. The Indian Army and the Royal Thailand Army troops participated in the field exercise of joint planning, helicopter insertion, and joint counter-terrorism operations.

Troops of India and Thailand participated in the annual joint military exercise MAITREE on Friday. The Indian Army and the Royal Thailand Army troops participated in the field exercise of joint planning, helicopter insertion, and joint counter-terrorism operations. The duration of this exercise is forty-eight hours. The India Army and Royal Thailand Army Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-2019 commenced at Umroi in Meghalaya on September 16. The annual bilateral joint exercise started off at the Joint Training Node (JTN) in Umroi. The exercise aims at the training of troops in Counter-Terrorism Operation in both jungle terrain and urban scenario.

Meghalaya: Troops from India, Thailand participate in annual joint military exercise 'MAITREE'

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi.

The legal notice stated that Kejriwal`s statement against Bihar born MP Tiwari is "false, unverified, misleading deliberately" and was made with the sole intention to spread misinformation with the objective of "creating a law and order situation in Delhi".

It said that despite being fully aware of NRC objectives, Kejriwal deliberately made the above said statement with mala fide intention to cause or which is likely to cause, "fear or alarm to the public, or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the state or the public tranquillity."

The notice was also issued to AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj for allegedly spreading "rumours" that people from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha will be evicted if the NRC is implemented in the city.

The notice read that the remarks by Kejriwal and Bhardwaj will "incite feelings of enmity, hatred and ill will between two communities and the people coming from Eastern part of India to commit any offence against the people of Delhi".

It sought an apology from both AAP leaders within in 2 days stating that their comments are a punishable offence under Indian Penal Code (IPC).

"You are hereby called upon to apologise and publish your apology in at least two leading newspaper, with prominence within 2 days from the receipt of this legal notice failing which the undersigned shall initiate legal actions including, both civil and criminal," it said.

Tiwari had earlier demanded that the NRC is needed in Delhi as illegal immigrants who have settled here are `dangerous and the demand will be part of the party`s election manifesto for the Assembly polls next year.

The NRC has been developed with the aim of segregating Indian citizens from illegal migrants.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi. The legal notice stated that Kejriwal`s statement against Bihar born MP Tiwari is "false, unverified, misleading deliberately" and was made with the sole intention to spread misinformation with the objective of "creating a law and order situation in Delhi". It said that despite being fully aware of NRC objectives, Kejriwal deliberately made the above said statement with mala fide intention to cause or which is likely to cause, "fear or alarm to the public, or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the state or the public tranquillity." The notice was also issued to AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj for allegedly spreading "rumours" that people from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha will be evicted if the NRC is implemented in the city. The notice read that the remarks by Kejriwal and Bhardwaj will "incite feelings of enmity, hatred and ill will between two communities and the people coming from Eastern part of India to commit any offence against the people of Delhi". It sought an apology from both AAP leaders within in 2 days stating that their comments are a punishable offence under Indian Penal Code (IPC). "You are hereby called upon to apologise and publish your apology in at least two leading newspaper, with prominence within 2 days from the receipt of this legal notice failing which the undersigned shall initiate legal actions including, both civil and criminal," it said. Tiwari had earlier demanded that the NRC is needed in Delhi as illegal immigrants who have settled here are `dangerous and the demand will be part of the party`s election manifesto for the Assembly polls next year. The NRC has been developed with the aim of segregating Indian citizens from illegal migrants.

Manoj Tiwari serves legal notice to Kejriwal, AAP MLA over NRC remarks, seeks apology within 2 days

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Punitipandey

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