India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes.

The commitment was made by the IBSA member states -- India, Brazil and South Africa, which was attended by the foreign ministers of the respective countries.

"At a time of significant and pressing global challenges, India, Brazil and South Africa acknowledge our common objectives and shared responsibility to help build a peaceful, secure and prosperous world. The right to development and equality of opportunities are critical means to achieve such goals," a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

It noted that there is a need for the reformation of the multilateral system, so as to ensure that it works effectively for all states and its peoples.

"As large democracies and vibrant nations, we believe that people should be placed at the centre of inclusive international governance. We are committed to reforming the multilateral system in order to meet the needs and expectations of our peoples, as well as to respond to increasing global challenges," the statement said.

"We reaffirm our commitment to enhance the voice and representation of emerging and developing economies, especially those in Africa, in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions," it added.

The member countries also said they remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories in the UN Security Council, stressing that it remains a crucial international undertaking.

"The comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) system, including that of the UN Security Council, remains a crucial international undertaking. As we welcome, inter-alia, the cooperation between the United Nations and IBSA countries, as well as with regional organisations and institutions, such as the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), in the promotion of international peace and security, we remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories for achieving a more representative, inclusive and equitable UN Security Council," the statement outlined.

It also said that IBSA member states remained concerned with the slow pace of inter-governmental negotiations on UN Security Council reform, which have not produced tangible progress in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

"With the onset of the 75th anniversary of the UN in 2020, we urge redoubling of efforts to achieve progress on this issue, with a view to an early comprehensive reform of the Security Council," the statement said.

The IBSA members outlined that the reform of the international economic governance architecture, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the international financial institutions, should also be a priority.

"IBSA countries have contributed meaningfully in making the international economic governance architecture more representative and democratic, and will continue to work together to advance an agenda that promotes sustainable development and inclusive growth," the statement said.

"The process of WTO reform must keep development at its core, promote inclusiveness and non-discrimination, build trust and address the inequalities and asymmetries in existing agreements. It should take into account the diversity of interests and concerns of the whole Membership, including developing Members, in particular, LDCs. IBSA countries recognise the central role played by the WTO in promoting the interests of developing countries on issues such as agriculture," it stressed.

The statement noted that strengthening the global financial safety net, with a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced International Monetary Fund (IMF) at its centre, is essential.

The member nations reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to prosecute persons sought for corruption and other economic crimes, including through international organisations and institutions such as the G20, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others.

"We underscore the need for continuing consultations and exchange of views between the IBSA countries in order to build partnerships in multilateral fora," the statement said.

"We commit ourselves to promoting the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation and coordination in all relevant multilateral fora and international organizations including the WTO and groupings of G20, BRICS, BASIC, and G-77," it further noted.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes. The commitment was made by the IBSA member states -- India, Brazil and South Africa, which was attended by the foreign ministers of the respective countries. "At a time of significant and pressing global challenges, India, Brazil and South Africa acknowledge our common objectives and shared responsibility to help build a peaceful, secure and prosperous world. The right to development and equality of opportunities are critical means to achieve such goals," a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. It noted that there is a need for the reformation of the multilateral system, so as to ensure that it works effectively for all states and its peoples. "As large democracies and vibrant nations, we believe that people should be placed at the centre of inclusive international governance. We are committed to reforming the multilateral system in order to meet the needs and expectations of our peoples, as well as to respond to increasing global challenges," the statement said. "We reaffirm our commitment to enhance the voice and representation of emerging and developing economies, especially those in Africa, in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions," it added. The member countries also said they remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories in the UN Security Council, stressing that it remains a crucial international undertaking. "The comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) system, including that of the UN Security Council, remains a crucial international undertaking. As we welcome, inter-alia, the cooperation between the United Nations and IBSA countries, as well as with regional organisations and institutions, such as the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), in the promotion of international peace and security, we remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories for achieving a more representative, inclusive and equitable UN Security Council," the statement outlined. It also said that IBSA member states remained concerned with the slow pace of inter-governmental negotiations on UN Security Council reform, which have not produced tangible progress in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "With the onset of the 75th anniversary of the UN in 2020, we urge redoubling of efforts to achieve progress on this issue, with a view to an early comprehensive reform of the Security Council," the statement said. The IBSA members outlined that the reform of the international economic governance architecture, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the international financial institutions, should also be a priority. "IBSA countries have contributed meaningfully in making the international economic governance architecture more representative and democratic, and will continue to work together to advance an agenda that promotes sustainable development and inclusive growth," the statement said. "The process of WTO reform must keep development at its core, promote inclusiveness and non-discrimination, build trust and address the inequalities and asymmetries in existing agreements. It should take into account the diversity of interests and concerns of the whole Membership, including developing Members, in particular, LDCs. IBSA countries recognise the central role played by the WTO in promoting the interests of developing countries on issues such as agriculture," it stressed. The statement noted that strengthening the global financial safety net, with a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced International Monetary Fund (IMF) at its centre, is essential. The member nations reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to prosecute persons sought for corruption and other economic crimes, including through international organisations and institutions such as the G20, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others. "We underscore the need for continuing consultations and exchange of views between the IBSA countries in order to build partnerships in multilateral fora," the statement said. "We commit ourselves to promoting the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation and coordination in all relevant multilateral fora and international organizations including the WTO and groupings of G20, BRICS, BASIC, and G-77," it further noted.

India, Brazil, South Africa pledge to work together in prosecuting economic offenders, reforming of multilateral system

Countdown to PM Modi's speech at UNGA begins, slotted to speak at 7.30 pm IST. Watch video to know more.

Countdown to PM Modi's speech at UNGA begins, slotted to speak at 7.30 pm IST

Before starting his first address before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unga-today-pm-modi-to-lead-from-the-front-252332">United Nations General Assembly </a>on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie.

"Believe me, many more people will see this selfie than will hear this speech," Bukele quipped before delivering his address calling on the United Nations to change with the times and for world leaders to do more to connect with their countries' youth.

The former mayor of the capital, San Salvador, who took office in June, is a prolific user of social media. In his speech, he attributed his election victory to his mastery of platforms like Facebook Live, which he said his political opponents did not fully grasp.

After finishing his speech, Bukele uploaded the photo to Twitter, where it received more than 7,000 likes in less than an hour. The picture showed him smiling in front of the U.N. logo - a map of the world surrounded by olive branches - and Argentine U.N. Ambassador Martin Garcia Moritan, one of several General Assembly vice presidents.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNSelfie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNSelfie</a> <a href="https://t.co/P7qH5p2l04">pic.twitter.com/P7qH5p2l04</a>
— Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) <a href="https://twitter.com/nayibbukele/status/1177305252179193862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Maybe in a few years, thousands of us will not have to travel to New York to meet in this building," Bukele said. "A series of videoconferences would have cost several hundred million dollars less, and I'm sure it would have the same effect, if not greater."

Before starting his first address before the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie.

Before starting his first address before the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie. "Believe me, many more people will see this selfie than will hear this speech," Bukele quipped before delivering his address calling on the United Nations to change with the times and for world leaders to do more to connect with their countries' youth. The former mayor of the capital, San Salvador, who took office in June, is a prolific user of social media. In his speech, he attributed his election victory to his mastery of platforms like Facebook Live, which he said his political opponents did not fully grasp. After finishing his speech, Bukele uploaded the photo to Twitter, where it received more than 7,000 likes in less than an hour. The picture showed him smiling in front of the U.N. logo - a map of the world surrounded by olive branches - and Argentine U.N. Ambassador Martin Garcia Moritan, one of several General Assembly vice presidents. #UNSelfie pic.twitter.com/P7qH5p2l04 — Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) September 26, 2019 × "Maybe in a few years, thousands of us will not have to travel to New York to meet in this building," Bukele said. "A series of videoconferences would have cost several hundred million dollars less, and I'm sure it would have the same effect, if not greater."

'Just bear with me', El Salvador President Nayib Bukele takes selfie before his first address at UNGA

A group of people affected by the cash withdrawal restrictions of Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank has threatened to boycott the upcoming Assembly elections if the issue is not resolved.

Many PMC Bank account holders have put up a picture addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on their social media accounts reading, "I will not vote on October 21 if the PMC bank crisis is not completely resolved in favour of the depositors."

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had, on Thursday, increased the withdrawal limit from Rs 1,000 to 10,000 after several account holders gathered outside the Sion branch of the bank in Mumbai.

"The relaxation has been granted with a view to reducing the hardship of depositors. The RBI is closely monitoring the position and will continue to take further steps as are necessary to safeguard the interest of depositors," RBI said in a statement.

On Monday, the central bank had restricted activities of PMC Bank for six months capping the withdrawals at Rs 1,000 per account and asked the bank to not grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment or incur any liability, including borrowing of funds and acceptance of deposits.

RBI said the directions were necessitated on account of major financial irregularities, failure of internal control and systems of the bank and wrong or under-reporting of its exposures under various off-site surveillance reports.

The RBI has also sacked the bank`s board of directors under sub-sections 1 and 2 of Section 36 AAA read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949.&nbsp;

An administrator has been appointed to take charge.

PMC Bank is a multi-state scheduled urban cooperative bank with operations in Maharashtra, New Delhi, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

With a network of 137 branches, it ranks among the top 10 cooperative banks in the country.&nbsp;

A group of people affected by the cash withdrawal restrictions of Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank has threatened to boycott the upcoming Assembly elections if the issue is not resolved.

A group of people affected by the cash withdrawal restrictions of Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank has threatened to boycott the upcoming Assembly elections if the issue is not resolved. Many PMC Bank account holders have put up a picture addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on their social media accounts reading, "I will not vote on October 21 if the PMC bank crisis is not completely resolved in favour of the depositors." The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had, on Thursday, increased the withdrawal limit from Rs 1,000 to 10,000 after several account holders gathered outside the Sion branch of the bank in Mumbai. "The relaxation has been granted with a view to reducing the hardship of depositors. The RBI is closely monitoring the position and will continue to take further steps as are necessary to safeguard the interest of depositors," RBI said in a statement. On Monday, the central bank had restricted activities of PMC Bank for six months capping the withdrawals at Rs 1,000 per account and asked the bank to not grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment or incur any liability, including borrowing of funds and acceptance of deposits. RBI said the directions were necessitated on account of major financial irregularities, failure of internal control and systems of the bank and wrong or under-reporting of its exposures under various off-site surveillance reports. The RBI has also sacked the bank`s board of directors under sub-sections 1 and 2 of Section 36 AAA read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949. An administrator has been appointed to take charge. PMC Bank is a multi-state scheduled urban cooperative bank with operations in Maharashtra, New Delhi, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. With a network of 137 branches, it ranks among the top 10 cooperative banks in the country.

Affected by PMC bank restrictions, many threaten to boycott upcoming Assembly polls

Hong Kong protesters chanting anti-government slogans trapped city leader Carrie Lam in a stadium for hours on Thursday after she held her first "open dialogue" with the people in a bid to end more than three months of often violent unrest.

Activists blocked roads and stood their ground despite police warnings, before beginning to disperse. More than four hours after the talks had ended, a convoy carrying Lam and other senior officials left the building under police guard.

Inside the British colonial-era Queen Elizabeth Stadium, residents had earlier chastised Lam, accusing her of ignoring the public and exacerbating a crisis that has no end in sight.

She had begun by saying her administration bore the heaviest responsibility for resolving the crisis.

"The whole storm was caused by the extradition bill initiated by the government," Lam said. "If we want to walk away from the difficulty and find a way out, the government has to take the biggest responsibility to do so."

Protests over the now-shelved extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent to mainland China for trial have evolved into broader calls for full democracy, in a stark challenge to China's Communist Party leaders.

The demonstrations resumed after the dialogue session was over, with activists blocking roads around the stadium with iron railings and other debris.

The unrest followed an event that had been notable for not being the whitewash many predicted, with Lam directly facing off with an often critical and hostile audience, still aggrieved at the havoc they blame on the Beijing-backed leader and her team.

Protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland.

Outside, large crowds of black-clad protesters chanted: "Hong Kong people, add oil," a slogan meaning "keep your strength up", while encircling the sports stadium and blocking exits.

Police warned that they would use force but did not intervene.

The event saw Lam holding talks with 150 members of the community.

Speakers criticising her for curbing electoral freedoms, ignoring public opinion and refusing to allow an independent inquiry into allegations of police brutality. Several called on Lam to resign, saying she was no longer fit to lead.

'Calm down'

Lam listened, taking notes, before responding on occasion. She appealed for people to give her government a chance, while emphasising Hong Kong still had a bright future and a strong rule of law.

"I hope you all understand that we still care about Hong Kong society. Our heart still exists," she said. "We will maintain our care for this society."

She stressed again, however, that she saw no need at the moment for an independent inquiry, with an existing police complaint mechanism sufficient to meet public concerns.

She also reiterated there was no way she could bow to the demand for charges against those arrested for rioting to be dropped.

"I am not shirking responsibility, but Hong Kong really needs to calm down," she said. "We have to stop sudden violence breaking out... Violation of the law will result in consequences we have to bear."

She also conceded limits to what she could do.

"There are some things that me and my colleagues cannot influence in society ... but the dialogue will continue."

China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement and denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of inciting the unrest.

City of edge

City rail services resumed on Thursday after being halted on Wednesday night at Sha Tin station, where protesters vandalised fittings for the second time this week.

Rail operator MTR has at times suspended city rail services during the protests, preventing some demonstrators from gathering and thus making it a target of attack, with protesters vandalising stations and setting fires near some exits.

When violence has flared, police have responded with tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets.

Hong Kong is on edge ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1, with authorities eager to avoid scenes that could embarrass the central government in Beijing. Activists have planned a whole host of protests on the day.

The Asian financial hub also marks the fifth anniversary this weekend of the start of the "Umbrella" protests, a series of pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 that failed to wrest concessions from Beijing.

Hong Kong protesters chanting anti-government slogans trapped city leader Carrie Lam in a stadium for hours on Thursday after she held her first "open dialogue" with the people in a bid to end more than three months of often violent unrest.

Hong Kong protesters chanting anti-government slogans trapped city leader Carrie Lam in a stadium for hours on Thursday after she held her first "open dialogue" with the people in a bid to end more than three months of often violent unrest. Activists blocked roads and stood their ground despite police warnings, before beginning to disperse. More than four hours after the talks had ended, a convoy carrying Lam and other senior officials left the building under police guard. Inside the British colonial-era Queen Elizabeth Stadium, residents had earlier chastised Lam, accusing her of ignoring the public and exacerbating a crisis that has no end in sight. She had begun by saying her administration bore the heaviest responsibility for resolving the crisis. "The whole storm was caused by the extradition bill initiated by the government," Lam said. "If we want to walk away from the difficulty and find a way out, the government has to take the biggest responsibility to do so." Protests over the now-shelved extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects to be sent to mainland China for trial have evolved into broader calls for full democracy, in a stark challenge to China's Communist Party leaders. The demonstrations resumed after the dialogue session was over, with activists blocking roads around the stadium with iron railings and other debris. The unrest followed an event that had been notable for not being the whitewash many predicted, with Lam directly facing off with an often critical and hostile audience, still aggrieved at the havoc they blame on the Beijing-backed leader and her team. Protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula intended to guarantee freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland. Outside, large crowds of black-clad protesters chanted: "Hong Kong people, add oil," a slogan meaning "keep your strength up", while encircling the sports stadium and blocking exits. Police warned that they would use force but did not intervene. The event saw Lam holding talks with 150 members of the community. Speakers criticising her for curbing electoral freedoms, ignoring public opinion and refusing to allow an independent inquiry into allegations of police brutality. Several called on Lam to resign, saying she was no longer fit to lead. 'Calm down' Lam listened, taking notes, before responding on occasion. She appealed for people to give her government a chance, while emphasising Hong Kong still had a bright future and a strong rule of law. "I hope you all understand that we still care about Hong Kong society. Our heart still exists," she said. "We will maintain our care for this society." She stressed again, however, that she saw no need at the moment for an independent inquiry, with an existing police complaint mechanism sufficient to meet public concerns. She also reiterated there was no way she could bow to the demand for charges against those arrested for rioting to be dropped. "I am not shirking responsibility, but Hong Kong really needs to calm down," she said. "We have to stop sudden violence breaking out... Violation of the law will result in consequences we have to bear." She also conceded limits to what she could do. "There are some things that me and my colleagues cannot influence in society ... but the dialogue will continue." China says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" arrangement and denies meddling. It has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of inciting the unrest. City of edge City rail services resumed on Thursday after being halted on Wednesday night at Sha Tin station, where protesters vandalised fittings for the second time this week. Rail operator MTR has at times suspended city rail services during the protests, preventing some demonstrators from gathering and thus making it a target of attack, with protesters vandalising stations and setting fires near some exits. When violence has flared, police have responded with tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets. Hong Kong is on edge ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1, with authorities eager to avoid scenes that could embarrass the central government in Beijing. Activists have planned a whole host of protests on the day. The Asian financial hub also marks the fifth anniversary this weekend of the start of the "Umbrella" protests, a series of pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 that failed to wrest concessions from Beijing.

Hong Kong protesters trap Carrie Lam for hours in stadium after 'open dialogue'

In a bid to politicise the Kashmir issue, huge billboards have been put by the Pak government at New York's Times Square. On one of the buildings it said "Stand with Kashmir".

Pak govt endorses billboards on Kashmir at Times Square

The French arm of bankrupt British tour operator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-repatriate-16000-people-on-fourth-day-of-thomas-cook-collapse-252153">Thomas Cook</a> declared insolvency on Thursday and said it would apply for a judicial recovery procedure with the aim of finding a buyer.&nbsp;

Already on Tuesday, Thomas Cook France -- which employs a workforce of 780 and has annual revenues of 425 million euros ($460 million) -- had said it would ask the French commercial court of Nanterre for creditor protection.

At a meeting of the unit's works council on Thursday, "the staff representative bodies unanimously approved the draft declaration of cessation of payments and the opening of judicial recovery proceedings," the subsidiary said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The objective remains to ensure the continuity of operations of the French entity and to move quickly to a recovery solution."&nbsp;

Thomas Cook's German and Austrian units took similar steps following the collapse of the British parent on Monday, leaving around 600,000 holidaymakers stranded worldwide.

The 178-year-old debt-plagued group, which had struggled against fierce online competition for some time and blamed Brexit uncertainty for a recent drop in bookings, declared bankruptcy after failing to secure £200 million ($250 million, 227 million euros) from private investors.

The collapse followed a lengthy period of chronic financial turmoil after a disastrous 2007 merger deal and leaves its 22,000 staff out of a job.

Thomas Cook France said that the number of its clients currently stranded had been reduced from around 10,000 on Monday to just over 8,400.

On Tuesday, it said that "a number of serious potential buyers have already expressed a strong interest in Thomas Cook France," without providing any details.&nbsp;

No candidates have so far come forward publicly and the number one French player, TUI France, declined to comment on Thursday.&nbsp;

The French arm of bankrupt British tour operator Thomas Cook declared insolvency on Thursday and said it would apply for a judicial recovery procedure with the aim of finding a buyer.

The French arm of bankrupt British tour operator Thomas Cook declared insolvency on Thursday and said it would apply for a judicial recovery procedure with the aim of finding a buyer. Already on Tuesday, Thomas Cook France -- which employs a workforce of 780 and has annual revenues of 425 million euros ($460 million) -- had said it would ask the French commercial court of Nanterre for creditor protection. At a meeting of the unit's works council on Thursday, "the staff representative bodies unanimously approved the draft declaration of cessation of payments and the opening of judicial recovery proceedings," the subsidiary said in a statement. "The objective remains to ensure the continuity of operations of the French entity and to move quickly to a recovery solution." Thomas Cook's German and Austrian units took similar steps following the collapse of the British parent on Monday, leaving around 600,000 holidaymakers stranded worldwide. The 178-year-old debt-plagued group, which had struggled against fierce online competition for some time and blamed Brexit uncertainty for a recent drop in bookings, declared bankruptcy after failing to secure £200 million ($250 million, 227 million euros) from private investors. The collapse followed a lengthy period of chronic financial turmoil after a disastrous 2007 merger deal and leaves its 22,000 staff out of a job. Thomas Cook France said that the number of its clients currently stranded had been reduced from around 10,000 on Monday to just over 8,400. On Tuesday, it said that "a number of serious potential buyers have already expressed a strong interest in Thomas Cook France," without providing any details. No candidates have so far come forward publicly and the number one French player, TUI France, declined to comment on Thursday.

Thomas Cook France declares insolvency

Two of the oldest allies of the National Democratic Alliance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) will contest the forthcoming Haryana Assembly polls against each other.&nbsp;

Talks on a possible alliance between the two allies, who are part of a coalition in the Narendra Modi government at Centre, have fallen as both have decided to go their own way.

Confirming the decision to contest election alone and not in alliance with BJP, SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema informed ANI, "SAD to contest elections in Haryana on its own."Manjinder Singh Sirsa, national spokesperson, Akali Dal too confirmed that Akali will contest elections on its own.&nbsp;

The clarity came after sitting SAD lone Kalanwali MLA Balkaur Singh joined BJP earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The SAD core committee condemned the BJP for using political muscle power to make Balkaur Singh join the saffron party and said that this act was against the principle of coalition `dharma`.

"The core committee noted that the BJP had not only betrayed the SAD but also backtracked from the commitments it had made vis a vis the Haryana assembly elections. Viewing the decision to co-opt Akali MLA Balkaur Singh into the BJP as an "undesirable" act not expected from an old ally," it said.

"The SAD has always stood through thick and thin with the BJP in the national interest. It is condemnable that the BJP has chosen to ignore the steadfast support of the SAD and decided to induct an Akali MLA into its fold", read the statement issued by SAD.

The Akalis said they trusted Khattar as he had in a press confrence committed to the alliance when the state was going for Lok Sabha polls.

Sources stated that the alliance could not be stitched as BJP has decided against allowing seats to its ally SAD as it wants to contest on all seats.&nbsp;

It is learnt that the SAD was demanding up to five for itself in the forthcoming contest. ANI was first to report that there is uncertainty over the talks of the alliance.

A senior BJP leader in Haryana said that BJP has repeatedly maintained that it can get a majority on its own.&nbsp;

"This feeling that BJP can win on its own has ensured that the party should go alone in the state. Though it was felt that the Akalis do enjoy an influence on about half a dozen seats bordering Punjab and areas where the Sikh population is high," sources added.&nbsp;

In 2014 Assembly polls, BJP and SAD had decided to go in for contest separately following which, the latter had chosen to support Om Prakash Chautala-led Indian National Lok Dal (INLD)The Assembly elections are scheduled to be held on October 21 and results will be announced on 24.&nbsp;

Two of the oldest allies of the National Democratic Alliance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) will contest the forthcoming Haryana Assembly polls against each other.

Two of the oldest allies of the National Democratic Alliance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) will contest the forthcoming Haryana Assembly polls against each other. Talks on a possible alliance between the two allies, who are part of a coalition in the Narendra Modi government at Centre, have fallen as both have decided to go their own way. Confirming the decision to contest election alone and not in alliance with BJP, SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema informed ANI, "SAD to contest elections in Haryana on its own."Manjinder Singh Sirsa, national spokesperson, Akali Dal too confirmed that Akali will contest elections on its own. The clarity came after sitting SAD lone Kalanwali MLA Balkaur Singh joined BJP earlier in the day. The SAD core committee condemned the BJP for using political muscle power to make Balkaur Singh join the saffron party and said that this act was against the principle of coalition `dharma`. "The core committee noted that the BJP had not only betrayed the SAD but also backtracked from the commitments it had made vis a vis the Haryana assembly elections. Viewing the decision to co-opt Akali MLA Balkaur Singh into the BJP as an "undesirable" act not expected from an old ally," it said. "The SAD has always stood through thick and thin with the BJP in the national interest. It is condemnable that the BJP has chosen to ignore the steadfast support of the SAD and decided to induct an Akali MLA into its fold", read the statement issued by SAD. The Akalis said they trusted Khattar as he had in a press confrence committed to the alliance when the state was going for Lok Sabha polls. Sources stated that the alliance could not be stitched as BJP has decided against allowing seats to its ally SAD as it wants to contest on all seats. It is learnt that the SAD was demanding up to five for itself in the forthcoming contest. ANI was first to report that there is uncertainty over the talks of the alliance. A senior BJP leader in Haryana said that BJP has repeatedly maintained that it can get a majority on its own. "This feeling that BJP can win on its own has ensured that the party should go alone in the state. Though it was felt that the Akalis do enjoy an influence on about half a dozen seats bordering Punjab and areas where the Sikh population is high," sources added. In 2014 Assembly polls, BJP and SAD had decided to go in for contest separately following which, the latter had chosen to support Om Prakash Chautala-led Indian National Lok Dal (INLD)The Assembly elections are scheduled to be held on October 21 and results will be announced on 24.

Two oldest allies, BJP and SAD to contest Assembly polls against each other in Haryana

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday.

The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley.

He also asked security forces to be on high alert on the borders and strengthen the counter-infiltration grid in view of reports about large scale infiltration attempts.

On September 16, MHA officials had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the current situation in Kashmir and also discussed the opening of mobile networks in different parts of Kashmir.

A detailed discussion was also held on the report by the intelligence agencies that over 200 Pakistani terrorists were waiting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, sources had shared.

Restrictions remain in some parts of Kashmir. However, the Home Ministry is expecting that soon normalcy will be completely restored in the entire region.

Earlier this month Doval had said that Article 370 was not about any special status but was a special discrimination against the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Central government had in August read down Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday. The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley.

National Security Advisor (NSA), Ajit Doval, who was on a one and half day visit to the Kashmir Valley, chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar on Thursday. The NSA reviewed the law and order situation, and position of essential services and supplies in the Valley. He also asked security forces to be on high alert on the borders and strengthen the counter-infiltration grid in view of reports about large scale infiltration attempts. On September 16, MHA officials had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the current situation in Kashmir and also discussed the opening of mobile networks in different parts of Kashmir. A detailed discussion was also held on the report by the intelligence agencies that over 200 Pakistani terrorists were waiting to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, sources had shared. Restrictions remain in some parts of Kashmir. However, the Home Ministry is expecting that soon normalcy will be completely restored in the entire region. Earlier this month Doval had said that Article 370 was not about any special status but was a special discrimination against the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Central government had in August read down Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

J&K: NSA Ajit Doval reviews law and order situation, essential services

"We have nothing," says Belen Boureima, a 74-year-old farmer, as his weathered face contemplates a scrap of land in the remote village he and his family must now call home.

"But it's better to be alive here than to stay in Djibo and die", he added.

Djibo, a dusty town in northern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-dead-in-islamist-attack-in-burkina-faso-human-rights-watch-204817">Burkina Faso</a>, has become a byword for suffering in this impoverished country's seven-year-old struggle with jihadism.

More than 580 people have been killed since the insurgency spilled over from neighbouring Mali, according to an AFP tally.

Attacks on emblems of the state, hit-and-run raids on remote villages and brutal interpretation of Islamic law have forced an estimated 300,000 people to flee their homes.&nbsp;

Among them is&nbsp;Boureima, head of a family of 43 people - seven men, 13 women, and 23 children.

They abandoned their village Gassalpalik, 70 kilometres from Djibo, eventually washing up in Yagma, a village about 30 km north of the capital Ouagadougou.

Belen said that he had spent his entire life in Djibo and had never even left the area until now - but "when you are lost, you have to end up somewhere."

In this alien landscape, the family has no friends or contacts. The head of the village has appointed a "tutor" to help the family, who are members of the Mossi ethnic group, get their bearings.

"The attackers took everything from us - cows, sheep, goats... They were armed and came on motorbikes," the patriarch recalled.

"They went into people's homes and took animals and killed the men. I saw people getting killed. Many of them," he said, adding he was unable to give any accurate figure.

"They also took three men from the village, and we have no news of their whereabouts", he added.

The attack happened despite patrols by the security forces, he said.

"I don't understand," he said. "We don't know what they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-special-forces-rescue-four-hostages-from-burkina-faso-217512">(the jihadists)</a> want. The teachers fled. The health centre closed. We were afraid. The only way out was to flee."

The family hurriedly bundled up its meagre possessions and the little money it had.

"Everyone in the village fled. It was a free-for-all... We don't know what has become of the village -- nobody lives there now, except perhaps for birds", he said.

He added: "We have absolutely nothing here. We have swallowed our shame.... It's desperate."

Sweeping stones 
 
Bintou, an older member of the group said that the family was at least able to sleep peacefully in their beds, but that was little consolation to what they had lost.

"Before the start (of the jihadist) attacks, we had a happy life, we grew crops, we lived in our own home, we had cattle and we were never hungry," she said.

"Here, we sweep stones" to sell to construction sites, she said.

"We sell them at $1.68 a pile, but sometimes you have to wait three days before making a sale. We cannot feed the children", she added.

The family are living in homes which have been made available for free by the villagers, but it has no land - a crucial source of nutrition and income in a place where there is no work.

Nabonswende Zongo, an elderly villager who has been appointed to help the family, said the situation was "difficult."

"If there is peace, they will go back. I am happy to help them. We are all brothers. I hope to do what I can, but have no idea what the future holds. I'm afraid and hope that what happened there won't come here", Zongo added.

"We have nothing," says Belen Boureima, a 74-year-old farmer, as his weathered face contemplates a scrap of land in the remote village he and his family must now call home.

"We have nothing," says Belen Boureima, a 74-year-old farmer, as his weathered face contemplates a scrap of land in the remote village he and his family must now call home. "But it's better to be alive here than to stay in Djibo and die", he added. Djibo, a dusty town in northern Burkina Faso, has become a byword for suffering in this impoverished country's seven-year-old struggle with jihadism. More than 580 people have been killed since the insurgency spilled over from neighbouring Mali, according to an AFP tally. Attacks on emblems of the state, hit-and-run raids on remote villages and brutal interpretation of Islamic law have forced an estimated 300,000 people to flee their homes. Among them is Boureima, head of a family of 43 people - seven men, 13 women, and 23 children. They abandoned their village Gassalpalik, 70 kilometres from Djibo, eventually washing up in Yagma, a village about 30 km north of the capital Ouagadougou. Belen said that he had spent his entire life in Djibo and had never even left the area until now - but "when you are lost, you have to end up somewhere." In this alien landscape, the family has no friends or contacts. The head of the village has appointed a "tutor" to help the family, who are members of the Mossi ethnic group, get their bearings. "The attackers took everything from us - cows, sheep, goats... They were armed and came on motorbikes," the patriarch recalled. "They went into people's homes and took animals and killed the men. I saw people getting killed. Many of them," he said, adding he was unable to give any accurate figure. "They also took three men from the village, and we have no news of their whereabouts", he added. The attack happened despite patrols by the security forces, he said. "I don't understand," he said. "We don't know what they (the jihadists) want. The teachers fled. The health centre closed. We were afraid. The only way out was to flee." The family hurriedly bundled up its meagre possessions and the little money it had. "Everyone in the village fled. It was a free-for-all... We don't know what has become of the village -- nobody lives there now, except perhaps for birds", he said. He added: "We have absolutely nothing here. We have swallowed our shame.... It's desperate." Sweeping stones Bintou, an older member of the group said that the family was at least able to sleep peacefully in their beds, but that was little consolation to what they had lost. "Before the start (of the jihadist) attacks, we had a happy life, we grew crops, we lived in our own home, we had cattle and we were never hungry," she said. "Here, we sweep stones" to sell to construction sites, she said. "We sell them at $1.68 a pile, but sometimes you have to wait three days before making a sale. We cannot feed the children", she added. The family are living in homes which have been made available for free by the villagers, but it has no land - a crucial source of nutrition and income in a place where there is no work. Nabonswende Zongo, an elderly villager who has been appointed to help the family, said the situation was "difficult." "If there is peace, they will go back. I am happy to help them. We are all brothers. I hope to do what I can, but have no idea what the future holds. I'm afraid and hope that what happened there won't come here", Zongo added.

To flee or to die: Life in Jihadi-controlled Burkina Faso remains hard

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch.

The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn.<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

Qandeel, whose real name was Fouzia Azeem, was allegedly murdered by her brother in a shocking case of 'honour-killing' in July 2016.

Suspects, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/brother-arrested-for-qandeel-balochs-murder-2659/amp">Qandeel's brother</a>,&nbsp;the main accused, Muhammad Wasim, her other brothers Aslam Shaheen, Mufti Abdul Qavi, Haq Nawaz and Abdul Basit were present in the model court in Multan during the proceedings.

Around 35 witnesses recorded their statement in the case.

Qandeel's brother had earlier confessed to the crime saying that his sister had brought shame to the family with her bold choice of lifestyle and racy posts.

Wasim confessed that he killed his sister because she "brought dishonour to the Baloch name" with her risque videos and statements posted on social media.

In August, Qandeel's parents had submitted an affidavit in the court stating that they have forgiven their sons and the case against them should be dropped.

However, the trial court rejected their demand.

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch. The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn.

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch. The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn. Qandeel, whose real name was Fouzia Azeem, was allegedly murdered by her brother in a shocking case of 'honour-killing' in July 2016. Suspects, including Qandeel's brother, the main accused, Muhammad Wasim, her other brothers Aslam Shaheen, Mufti Abdul Qavi, Haq Nawaz and Abdul Basit were present in the model court in Multan during the proceedings. Around 35 witnesses recorded their statement in the case. Qandeel's brother had earlier confessed to the crime saying that his sister had brought shame to the family with her bold choice of lifestyle and racy posts. Wasim confessed that he killed his sister because she "brought dishonour to the Baloch name" with her risque videos and statements posted on social media. In August, Qandeel's parents had submitted an affidavit in the court stating that they have forgiven their sons and the case against them should be dropped. However, the trial court rejected their demand.

Pakistan court reserves verdict in Qandeel Baloch case, verdict tomorrow

Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Wednesday approved a fresh probe against Leader of the Opposition in the Pakistan National Assembly, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shahbaz-sharif-casts-vote-as-pakistan-general-election-starts-154370">Shahbaz Sharif</a>, in connection with his alleged involvement in corruption in the Auqaf department during his tenure as Punjab chief minister.

NAB's decision to initiate a probe against Sharif came after an executive board meeting presided over by the bureau's chairman retired Justice Javed Iqbal on Wednesday, reported The Dawn.

NAB also summoned former planning and development minister Ahsan Iqbal in a separate case on Thursday.

Iqbal was summoned in a case regarding the establishment of Sports City in his hometown of Narowal.

He is accused of utilising resources of the federal government and the Pakistan Sports Board for establishing sports facilities in his home town in Punjab.

Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Wednesday approved a fresh probe against Leader of the Opposition in the Pakistan National Assembly, Shahbaz Sharif, in connection with his alleged involvement in corruption in the Auqaf department during his tenure as Punjab chief minister.

Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Wednesday approved a fresh probe against Leader of the Opposition in the Pakistan National Assembly, Shahbaz Sharif, in connection with his alleged involvement in corruption in the Auqaf department during his tenure as Punjab chief minister. NAB's decision to initiate a probe against Sharif came after an executive board meeting presided over by the bureau's chairman retired Justice Javed Iqbal on Wednesday, reported The Dawn. NAB also summoned former planning and development minister Ahsan Iqbal in a separate case on Thursday. Iqbal was summoned in a case regarding the establishment of Sports City in his hometown of Narowal. He is accused of utilising resources of the federal government and the Pakistan Sports Board for establishing sports facilities in his home town in Punjab.

NAB approves fresh probe against Shahbaz Sharif

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Zee News Rajasthan

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