Afghans go to the polls Saturday to vote in a presidential election that few expect will have much effect in bringing peace to the war-torn country.

With the Taliban threatening violence against anyone who participates and concern that the widespread fraud which blighted previous elections will resurface, analysts fear a low turnout will seriously undermine the result.

"The security threats, coupled with a trust issue in the election's transparency, may translate into a very low turnout," Afghanistan analyst Ahmad Saeedi told AFP ahead of the vote.

"That would undermine the legitimacy of the election process and any future government that may come out of it."

The stakes are high.

Whatever the turnout, Afghans are choosing a leader who will almost certainly have to negotiate with the Taliban at some point -- even though the hardline Islamist group is doing everything it can to undermine the process.

Eighteen names were originally on the ballot, but the poll is considered a two-horse race between current President Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive.

Both claimed victory in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US President Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role.

Five years of bitter rivalry later, the parallels are unsettling, yet nothing suggests President Donald Trump would be willing to play such a role in any fresh disputes.

In fact, analysts suggest the new Washington administration has largely undermined the Afghan government by excluding Kabul from months of talks it held with the Taliban in a bid to extract US forces from America's longest-running war.&nbsp;

Agreement seemed imminent

The Taliban have also refused to negotiate with Ghani -- whom they consider a Washington puppet -- and he was totally marginalised during negotiations.

An agreement between the Taliban and Washington seemed imminent less than a month ago and observers thought the election could be suspended yet again to allow for the implementation of the withdrawal plan, even as Ghani insisted it must go ahead.

Ultimately, Trump scuppered the deal at the last moment.

That decision boosted what has been a fairly lacklustre election campaign, strengthening Ghani's argument the winner needs a strong mandate to negotiate with the Taliban to finally achieve a lasting peace.

But a low turnout is still a more likely result.

With the Taliban controlling or influencing vast swathes of Afghanistan, it was impossible to hold rallies in many parts of the country.

Campaigning was also hampered by violence from the first day, when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead.&nbsp;

More than 1,300 civilians were killed in the country in the first half of 2019, according to the UN.&nbsp;

Logistically, authorities plan to open almost 5,000 polling stations -- 500 more were abandoned because of a lack of security.

The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations.

Election officials say this will be one the cleanest election yet held, having gone the distance with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair.

Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud".

Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war that any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security.

"It is very likely that I do not vote," 29-year-old Jawad Zawulistani told AFP.&nbsp;

"I have lost hope that my vote will be of any importance and the result of election would bring any change to my life and to my people's lives."

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. 
&nbsp;

Afghans go to the polls Saturday to vote in a presidential election that few expect will have much effect in bringing peace to the war-torn country. With the Taliban threatening violence against anyone who participates and concern that the widespread fraud which blighted previous elections will resurface, analysts fear a low turnout will seriously undermine the result.

Afghans go to the polls Saturday to vote in a presidential election that few expect will have much effect in bringing peace to the war-torn country. With the Taliban threatening violence against anyone who participates and concern that the widespread fraud which blighted previous elections will resurface, analysts fear a low turnout will seriously undermine the result. "The security threats, coupled with a trust issue in the election's transparency, may translate into a very low turnout," Afghanistan analyst Ahmad Saeedi told AFP ahead of the vote. "That would undermine the legitimacy of the election process and any future government that may come out of it." The stakes are high. Whatever the turnout, Afghans are choosing a leader who will almost certainly have to negotiate with the Taliban at some point -- even though the hardline Islamist group is doing everything it can to undermine the process. Eighteen names were originally on the ballot, but the poll is considered a two-horse race between current President Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, the country's chief executive. Both claimed victory in the 2014 election -- a vote so tainted by fraud and violence that it led to a constitutional crisis and forced then-US President Barack Obama to push for a compromise that saw Abdullah awarded the subordinate role. Five years of bitter rivalry later, the parallels are unsettling, yet nothing suggests President Donald Trump would be willing to play such a role in any fresh disputes. In fact, analysts suggest the new Washington administration has largely undermined the Afghan government by excluding Kabul from months of talks it held with the Taliban in a bid to extract US forces from America's longest-running war. Agreement seemed imminent The Taliban have also refused to negotiate with Ghani -- whom they consider a Washington puppet -- and he was totally marginalised during negotiations. An agreement between the Taliban and Washington seemed imminent less than a month ago and observers thought the election could be suspended yet again to allow for the implementation of the withdrawal plan, even as Ghani insisted it must go ahead. Ultimately, Trump scuppered the deal at the last moment. That decision boosted what has been a fairly lacklustre election campaign, strengthening Ghani's argument the winner needs a strong mandate to negotiate with the Taliban to finally achieve a lasting peace. But a low turnout is still a more likely result. With the Taliban controlling or influencing vast swathes of Afghanistan, it was impossible to hold rallies in many parts of the country. Campaigning was also hampered by violence from the first day, when Ghani's running mate was targeted in a bomb-and-gun attack that left at least 20 dead. More than 1,300 civilians were killed in the country in the first half of 2019, according to the UN. Logistically, authorities plan to open almost 5,000 polling stations -- 500 more were abandoned because of a lack of security. The interior ministry says 72,000 forces will help to secure polling stations. Election officials say this will be one the cleanest election yet held, having gone the distance with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers to ensure the vote is fair. Still, the US embassy in Kabul has said it is "disturbed by so many complaints about security, lack of an equal playing field and fraud". Some 9.6 million Afghans are registered to vote, but many have lost any hope that after 18 years of war that any leader can unify the fractious country and improve basic living conditions, boost the stagnating economy or bolster security. "It is very likely that I do not vote," 29-year-old Jawad Zawulistani told AFP. "I have lost hope that my vote will be of any importance and the result of election would bring any change to my life and to my people's lives." 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.

Little hope for peace as Afghans prepare for weekend vote

A shallow tremor sent terrified people running into the streets in northeastern Pakistan on Thursday, days after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/death-toll-rises-to-37-in-pakistan-earthquake-as-families-bury-loved-ones-252005">powerful quake killed 38 people </a>in the same area and destroyed infrastructure and roads.&nbsp;

An AFP reporter in the city of Mirpur in Pakistani-controlled Kashmir described the ground shaking, while Pakistan's top meteorologist, Muhammad Riaz, said the epicentre of the 4.4-magnitude tremor was 12 kilometres (seven miles) deep.

"It's hell. I am running to save my life," Mohammad Bilal, told AFP moments after the tremor.

"I thought most of the building would have tumbled down," said Sagheer Ahmad. "Allah is very kind to us."

The US Geological Survey put the quake at 4.7 magnitude and 10 kilometres deep, adding that it had struck just four kilometres outside of Mirpur.&nbsp;

City residents huddled in the streets, some still barefoot, others reciting verses from the Koran. Some patients were also evacuated from a nearby hospital.

The tremor came as rescuers continued to pick through toppled buildings to reach victims from Tuesday's earthquake.&nbsp;

Pakistan straddles the boundary where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making the country susceptible to earthquakes.

In October 2015, a 7.5-magnitude quake in Pakistan and Afghanistan killed almost 400 people, flattening buildings in rugged terrain that impeded relief efforts.

The country was also hit by a 7.6-magnitude quake on October 8, 2005, that killed more than 73,000 people and left about 3.5 million homeless, mainly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

A shallow tremor sent terrified people running into the streets in northeastern Pakistan on Thursday, days after a powerful quake killed 38 people in the same area and destroyed infrastructure and roads.

A shallow tremor sent terrified people running into the streets in northeastern Pakistan on Thursday, days after a powerful quake killed 38 people in the same area and destroyed infrastructure and roads. An AFP reporter in the city of Mirpur in Pakistani-controlled Kashmir described the ground shaking, while Pakistan's top meteorologist, Muhammad Riaz, said the epicentre of the 4.4-magnitude tremor was 12 kilometres (seven miles) deep. "It's hell. I am running to save my life," Mohammad Bilal, told AFP moments after the tremor. "I thought most of the building would have tumbled down," said Sagheer Ahmad. "Allah is very kind to us." The US Geological Survey put the quake at 4.7 magnitude and 10 kilometres deep, adding that it had struck just four kilometres outside of Mirpur. City residents huddled in the streets, some still barefoot, others reciting verses from the Koran. Some patients were also evacuated from a nearby hospital. The tremor came as rescuers continued to pick through toppled buildings to reach victims from Tuesday's earthquake. Pakistan straddles the boundary where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making the country susceptible to earthquakes. In October 2015, a 7.5-magnitude quake in Pakistan and Afghanistan killed almost 400 people, flattening buildings in rugged terrain that impeded relief efforts. The country was also hit by a 7.6-magnitude quake on October 8, 2005, that killed more than 73,000 people and left about 3.5 million homeless, mainly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Shallow tremor rocks quake-hit area in Pakistan days after 38 killed

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said that over 70 flights are scheduled to bring back 16,000 people to the country on Thursday following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travellers-stranded-abroad-other-cases-before-thomas-cook-251538">collapse of Thomas Cook</a>.

The authority also said that over 150 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thomas-cook-collapses-why-and-what-happens-now-251531">Thomas Cook</a> crew members and 30 per cent of the total number of passengers had been flown back in the first three days of post-collapse operations.

CAA said that its flying programme would continue until October 6, with more than 1,000 flights planned in total. The Aviation Regulator launched the largest peacetime repatriation on Monday.

"Due to the significant scale of the situation, some disruption is inevitable, but the Civil Aviation Authority will endeavour to get people home as close as possible to their planned dates," it said.

A fleet of aircraft will be used to repatriate British citizens. In a small number of destinations, alternative commercial flights will be used.

About 50,000 tourists are stranded in Greece, mainly on islands, a Greek tourism ministry official told Reuters on Monday.

The CAA has launched a special website,&nbsp;thomascook.caa.co.uk, where affected customers can find details and information on repatriation flights.

For those customers not flying from Britain, alternative arrangements will have to be found. In Germany, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thomas-cook-shuts-down-abruptly-leaves-thousands-of-passengers-stranded-251760">a popular customer market for Thomas Cook</a>, insurance companies will coordinate the response.

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said that over 70 flights are scheduled to bring back 16,000 people to the country on Thursday following the collapse of Thomas Cook.

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said that over 70 flights are scheduled to bring back 16,000 people to the country on Thursday following the collapse of Thomas Cook. The authority also said that over 150 Thomas Cook crew members and 30 per cent of the total number of passengers had been flown back in the first three days of post-collapse operations. CAA said that its flying programme would continue until October 6, with more than 1,000 flights planned in total. The Aviation Regulator launched the largest peacetime repatriation on Monday. "Due to the significant scale of the situation, some disruption is inevitable, but the Civil Aviation Authority will endeavour to get people home as close as possible to their planned dates," it said. A fleet of aircraft will be used to repatriate British citizens. In a small number of destinations, alternative commercial flights will be used. About 50,000 tourists are stranded in Greece, mainly on islands, a Greek tourism ministry official told Reuters on Monday. The CAA has launched a special website, thomascook.caa.co.uk, where affected customers can find details and information on repatriation flights. For those customers not flying from Britain, alternative arrangements will have to be found. In Germany, a popular customer market for Thomas Cook, insurance companies will coordinate the response.

UK to repatriate 16,000 people on fourth day of Thomas Cook collapse

&nbsp;At least 11 people have been killed and six are missing after Pune and its neighbouring areas were hit by heavy rain and flash floods, a government official said on Wednesday.

More than 28,000 people have been evacuated from low-lying areas and the local administration is on alert for more rain, Deepak Mhaisekar told Reuters.

Pune, which is around 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Mumbai, has received 113 per cent more rainfall than average since the start of the monsoon season in early June, a weather department official said.

Of the 11 deaths, five occurred in Pune when a wall collapsed, said Mhaisekar.

South Asia gets monsoon rain annually during the June-September months which causes fatalities and mass displacement.

India's monsoons, which deliver more than 70 per cent of the country's annual rainfall, are crucial for farm output and economic growth, but rainfall often weakens the foundations of poorly built walls and buildings resulting in deaths

At least 11 people have been killed and six are missing after Pune and its neighbouring areas were hit by heavy rain and flash floods, a government official said on Wednesday.

At least 11 people have been killed and six are missing after Pune and its neighbouring areas were hit by heavy rain and flash floods, a government official said on Wednesday. More than 28,000 people have been evacuated from low-lying areas and the local administration is on alert for more rain, Deepak Mhaisekar told Reuters. Pune, which is around 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Mumbai, has received 113 per cent more rainfall than average since the start of the monsoon season in early June, a weather department official said. Of the 11 deaths, five occurred in Pune when a wall collapsed, said Mhaisekar. South Asia gets monsoon rain annually during the June-September months which causes fatalities and mass displacement. India's monsoons, which deliver more than 70 per cent of the country's annual rainfall, are crucial for farm output and economic growth, but rainfall often weakens the foundations of poorly built walls and buildings resulting in deaths

At least 11 dead, thousands evacuated as flash floods hit western India

The Central government on Wednesday notified that the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal has upheld that there is "sufficient credible material and grounds" to declare Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF-Y), a faction headed by Yasin Malik, as an "unlawful association".

The incumbent government had in March earlier this year declared the faction as an unlawful association, following which a tribunal, headed by Justice Chander Shekhar was constituted to adjudicate the same.

The tribunal, in its order on September 20, held that the activities of the faction are "disruptive in character, which threatens the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India".

"The Central government had sufficient credible material and grounds for taking action for declaring 'JKLF-Y' as an 'unlawful association'. It is held that there is 'sufficient cause' to confirm the notification of the act declaring 'JKLF-Y' to be an 'unlawful association'," Justice Chander Shekhar stated in the order.

The order stated that the faction has been acting "in collusion with other similar groups to disrupt peace and harmony in Jammu and Kashmir.

To substantiate its contention before the tribunal, the Central government had submitted a list of 98 FIR filed against the faction.

"A careful perusal of the FIRs brought on record makes it apparent that the association has been actively indulging in and supporting anti-national activities," Justice Shekhar stated.

The tribunal observed that there is sufficient noticeable credible material including the FIRs coupled with corroborative intelligence inputs which justified the action taken by the government.

"Even in cases where FIRs are lodged for slogan shouting, the contents of the slogan are a direct affront to the sovereignty of the state and are undoubtedly anti-national, such protests can certainly not be a part of any democratic process," the order stated.

It asserted that there is a significant difference in protesting on an issue and protesting for "territorial sovereignty".

&nbsp;"There are statements attributed to Yasin Malik which are separatists in character and support extremism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. Such statements have the potential of instigating sentiments which ultimately become prejudicial to the territorial integrity and security of the country," it said.

The tribunal also rebutted the contentions put forth by the faction that the exercise of banning it is "vindictive in character or unconstitutional".

The Central government on Wednesday notified that the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal has upheld that there is "sufficient credible material and grounds" to declare Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF-Y), a faction headed by Yasin Malik, as an "unlawful association".

The Central government on Wednesday notified that the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal has upheld that there is "sufficient credible material and grounds" to declare Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF-Y), a faction headed by Yasin Malik, as an "unlawful association". The incumbent government had in March earlier this year declared the faction as an unlawful association, following which a tribunal, headed by Justice Chander Shekhar was constituted to adjudicate the same. The tribunal, in its order on September 20, held that the activities of the faction are "disruptive in character, which threatens the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India". "The Central government had sufficient credible material and grounds for taking action for declaring 'JKLF-Y' as an 'unlawful association'. It is held that there is 'sufficient cause' to confirm the notification of the act declaring 'JKLF-Y' to be an 'unlawful association'," Justice Chander Shekhar stated in the order. The order stated that the faction has been acting "in collusion with other similar groups to disrupt peace and harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. To substantiate its contention before the tribunal, the Central government had submitted a list of 98 FIR filed against the faction. "A careful perusal of the FIRs brought on record makes it apparent that the association has been actively indulging in and supporting anti-national activities," Justice Shekhar stated. The tribunal observed that there is sufficient noticeable credible material including the FIRs coupled with corroborative intelligence inputs which justified the action taken by the government. "Even in cases where FIRs are lodged for slogan shouting, the contents of the slogan are a direct affront to the sovereignty of the state and are undoubtedly anti-national, such protests can certainly not be a part of any democratic process," the order stated. It asserted that there is a significant difference in protesting on an issue and protesting for "territorial sovereignty". "There are statements attributed to Yasin Malik which are separatists in character and support extremism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. Such statements have the potential of instigating sentiments which ultimately become prejudicial to the territorial integrity and security of the country," it said. The tribunal also rebutted the contentions put forth by the faction that the exercise of banning it is "vindictive in character or unconstitutional".

Credible material, grounds to declare Yasin Malik's JKLF-Y unlawful association: Government

External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-problem-talking-to-pakistan-but-have-problem-talking-to-terroristan-jaishankar-251859">S Jaishankar</a> on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse".

"An enormous good was done in Afghanistan. Today I don't see that reflected in the discourse, now how do we maintain those gains? To me, that's the big challenge," the External Affairs Minister said during a conversation at Council on Foreign Relations here with former US ambassador to India Frank G Wisner.

"I have visited Afghanistan and I have seen that the Afghans have left the Taliban-dominated areas and re-habited the areas under the US control. So how would you protect the gains of pluralism in different ways&nbsp;including civil liberties, women's rights, and child education? And that is a big challenge," the minister said.

He added, "We do understand the compulsions on the part of the United States."

The minister further touched upon the present scenario of turmoil ongoing in the war-torn country especially after the breakdown of the peace talks between the US and Taliban earlier this month, despite months of continuous negotiations on the two sides.

"The US had an 18-year military commitment in Afghanistan. And frankly, I can't think any other country is capable of such a commitment," Jaishankar said in response to a question on Afghanistan being of huge strategic importance for India and how does the country balances in its north-west frontiers in the wake of the US negotiations with the Taliban.

Following the breakdown of talks between the US and Taliban, the Trump administration had further called for a pull out of nearly 5000 troops from Afghanistan.

Addressing a query on the American troops' removal amid such volatile conditions, Jaishankar noted, "So, the first point I would make is even if the Americans are pulling out or negotiating, I think, countries like us should appreciate the US for the work it has done to stabilise that region. That has been for the larger benefit of the region."

"I think the best bet will be to trust the Afghans more. They have capabilities there," he stressed.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday appreciated the United States for doing enormous good in Afghanistan but said that "those gains are not being reflected in general discourse". "An enormous good was done in Afghanistan. Today I don't see that reflected in the discourse, now how do we maintain those gains? To me, that's the big challenge," the External Affairs Minister said during a conversation at Council on Foreign Relations here with former US ambassador to India Frank G Wisner. "I have visited Afghanistan and I have seen that the Afghans have left the Taliban-dominated areas and re-habited the areas under the US control. So how would you protect the gains of pluralism in different ways including civil liberties, women's rights, and child education? And that is a big challenge," the minister said. He added, "We do understand the compulsions on the part of the United States." The minister further touched upon the present scenario of turmoil ongoing in the war-torn country especially after the breakdown of the peace talks between the US and Taliban earlier this month, despite months of continuous negotiations on the two sides. "The US had an 18-year military commitment in Afghanistan. And frankly, I can't think any other country is capable of such a commitment," Jaishankar said in response to a question on Afghanistan being of huge strategic importance for India and how does the country balances in its north-west frontiers in the wake of the US negotiations with the Taliban. Following the breakdown of talks between the US and Taliban, the Trump administration had further called for a pull out of nearly 5000 troops from Afghanistan. Addressing a query on the American troops' removal amid such volatile conditions, Jaishankar noted, "So, the first point I would make is even if the Americans are pulling out or negotiating, I think, countries like us should appreciate the US for the work it has done to stabilise that region. That has been for the larger benefit of the region." "I think the best bet will be to trust the Afghans more. They have capabilities there," he stressed.

Enormous good done by US in Afghanistan: Jaishankar

The US Justice Department will open an antitrust investigation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-exempts-political-speech-from-fact-checking-251925">Facebook Inc,</a> a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, marking the fourth recent antitrust probe of the social media company.

Facebook also faces probes by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a group of state attorneys general led by New York and the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee.

Large tech companies, including Apple Inc, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google, have increasingly been on the defensive in the recent years over lapses such as privacy breaches and outsized market influence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-takes-down-pro-trump-pages-with-reported-ukraine-links-251827">Facebook has faced extra scrutiny</a> tied to how it allowed its platforms to be used during the 2016 US presidential election.

The company, which owns one-time rivals Instagram and WhatsApp and has 2.4 billion monthly users, recently paid a $5 billion settlement for sharing 87 million users' data with defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica.

Facebook declined to comment on Wednesday.

The two federal agencies had divided up responsibility for the companies being investigated, with the Justice Department taking Google and Apple while the FTC looked at Facebook and Amazon.

The Justice Department later said it was opening a probe of online platforms. It did not specify which ones, but said it would consider concerns raised about "search, social media and some retail services online".

Neither agency has revealed the focus of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-suspends-tens-of-thousands-of-apps-in-privacy-review-251009">investigations into Facebook</a>, though the Wall Street Journal has reported that the FTC's probe is focused on the company's acquisitions.

The world's largest social network has purchased nearly 90 companies since 2003, showed data from S&amp;P Global.

The Justice Department's Antitrust Chief likewise told a tech conference in August that the government is looking at previously approved acquisitions as part of its broad review.

This led some industry observers to question whether the two federal investigations would overlap.

Lawmakers, in particular, Senator&nbsp;Mike Lee, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust panel, criticized the appearance of overlap in a hearing last week.

The agencies generally have a practice of meeting to decide who will investigate which matter but the FTC cannot probe certain areas, for example, price-fixing.

The probe into Facebook by the state attorneys general, announced earlier this month, is being led by New York and also includes Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee and the District of Columbia.

New York Attorney General Letitia James said that investigation would look into whether Facebook's actions had endangered consumer data, reduced the quality of consumers' choices or increased the price of advertising.

The US Justice Department will open an antitrust investigation of Facebook Inc, a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, marking the fourth recent antitrust probe of the social media company.

The US Justice Department will open an antitrust investigation of Facebook Inc, a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, marking the fourth recent antitrust probe of the social media company. Facebook also faces probes by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a group of state attorneys general led by New York and the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee. Large tech companies, including Apple Inc, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google, have increasingly been on the defensive in the recent years over lapses such as privacy breaches and outsized market influence. Facebook has faced extra scrutiny tied to how it allowed its platforms to be used during the 2016 US presidential election. The company, which owns one-time rivals Instagram and WhatsApp and has 2.4 billion monthly users, recently paid a $5 billion settlement for sharing 87 million users' data with defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. Facebook declined to comment on Wednesday. The two federal agencies had divided up responsibility for the companies being investigated, with the Justice Department taking Google and Apple while the FTC looked at Facebook and Amazon. The Justice Department later said it was opening a probe of online platforms. It did not specify which ones, but said it would consider concerns raised about "search, social media and some retail services online". Neither agency has revealed the focus of investigations into Facebook, though the Wall Street Journal has reported that the FTC's probe is focused on the company's acquisitions. The world's largest social network has purchased nearly 90 companies since 2003, showed data from S&P Global. The Justice Department's Antitrust Chief likewise told a tech conference in August that the government is looking at previously approved acquisitions as part of its broad review. This led some industry observers to question whether the two federal investigations would overlap. Lawmakers, in particular, Senator Mike Lee, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust panel, criticized the appearance of overlap in a hearing last week. The agencies generally have a practice of meeting to decide who will investigate which matter but the FTC cannot probe certain areas, for example, price-fixing. The probe into Facebook by the state attorneys general, announced earlier this month, is being led by New York and also includes Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee and the District of Columbia. New York Attorney General Letitia James said that investigation would look into whether Facebook's actions had endangered consumer data, reduced the quality of consumers' choices or increased the price of advertising.

United States Justice Department to open antitrust investigation against Facebook

In a clear indication that judgment in Ayodhya dispute case is likely to be delivered before CJI Ranjan Gogoi's retirement in November, the Supreme Court on Thursday said that it cannot grant even a single extra day beyond October 18 to all petitioners to complete their submissions.

A five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it doesn`t want to give even "one day extra" beyond October 18 after it was apprised by the lawyers that their submissions will be completed by the said date in "all the possibilities and manner".

Today was the 32nd day of the day-to-day hearing on a batch of appeals filed by Muslim and Hindu parties challenging the 2010 Allahabad High Court judgment, which has ruled to divide the disputed site into three equal parts.

The bench will write the landmark judgement for ownership of 2.77-acre land once the arguments are concluded by lawyers of UP Sunni Waqf Board, Nirmoni Akhada and Ram Deity three parties in the case.

On September 18, the court said that arguments have to be completed by October 18 even as the mediation panel may continue its work under confidentiality.

"As per the estimate of tentative dates to finish the hearing in the case, we can say that the submissions have to be likely completed by October 18," Gogoi had said.

Earlier, the court had observed that the hearing of the appeals, which is at a very advanced stage, will continue without any interruption.

It is to be noted that CJI Gogoi is set to demit office on November 17 and he has to deliver the judgement before that as he had entirely heard the case from the beginning of the arguments.

The court had also said that simultaneously the mediation process can go along with the hearing and if an amicable settlement is reached through it, the same can be filed before the court.

The day-to-day hearing started on August 6 after a court-appointed mediation panel failed to resolve the dispute through an amicable settlement.

In a clear indication that judgment in Ayodhya dispute case is likely to be delivered before CJI Ranjan Gogoi's retirement in November, the Supreme Court on Thursday said that it cannot grant even a single extra day beyond October 18 to all petitioners to complete their submissions.

In a clear indication that judgment in Ayodhya dispute case is likely to be delivered before CJI Ranjan Gogoi's retirement in November, the Supreme Court on Thursday said that it cannot grant even a single extra day beyond October 18 to all petitioners to complete their submissions. A five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it doesn`t want to give even "one day extra" beyond October 18 after it was apprised by the lawyers that their submissions will be completed by the said date in "all the possibilities and manner". Today was the 32nd day of the day-to-day hearing on a batch of appeals filed by Muslim and Hindu parties challenging the 2010 Allahabad High Court judgment, which has ruled to divide the disputed site into three equal parts. The bench will write the landmark judgement for ownership of 2.77-acre land once the arguments are concluded by lawyers of UP Sunni Waqf Board, Nirmoni Akhada and Ram Deity three parties in the case. On September 18, the court said that arguments have to be completed by October 18 even as the mediation panel may continue its work under confidentiality. "As per the estimate of tentative dates to finish the hearing in the case, we can say that the submissions have to be likely completed by October 18," Gogoi had said. Earlier, the court had observed that the hearing of the appeals, which is at a very advanced stage, will continue without any interruption. It is to be noted that CJI Gogoi is set to demit office on November 17 and he has to deliver the judgement before that as he had entirely heard the case from the beginning of the arguments. The court had also said that simultaneously the mediation process can go along with the hearing and if an amicable settlement is reached through it, the same can be filed before the court. The day-to-day hearing started on August 6 after a court-appointed mediation panel failed to resolve the dispute through an amicable settlement.

Won't grant any extra day after October 18 to complete arguments: Supreme Court tells parties in Ayodhya case

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he will release the "fully declassified" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-denies-pressurising-ukraine-into-investigating-joe-biden-for-corruption-251618">transcript of a controversial call with Ukraine's president</a> which is fueling Democratic calls for his impeachment.

"I am currently at the United Nations representing our country but have authorised the release tomorrow of the complete, fully declassified and unredacted transcript of my phone conversation with President Zelensky of Ukraine," Trump tweeted.

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....You will see it was a very friendly and totally appropriate call. No pressure and, unlike Joe Biden and his son, NO quid pro quo! This is nothing more than a continuation of the Greatest and most Destructive Witch Hunt of all time!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1176559970390806530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"You will see it was a very friendly and totally appropriate call," wrote Trump, who is accused of pressuring Zelensky to investigate his White House rival Joe Biden and his son.

"No pressure and, unlike Joe Biden and his son, NO quid pro quo!"

The latest development comes after Trump confirmed he had withheld nearly $400 million in US aid to Ukraine but denied he did so as leverage to get its president to initiate an investigation that would damage Democratic political rival, Joe Biden.

In remarks to reporters over the intensifying controversy, Trump sought to portray that there was nothing sinister about withholding the aid, saying he wanted Europe and not just the United States step up and provide&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;assistance.

The money was later released by the Trump administration.

Trump is seeking re-election next year and Biden, the former US vice president, is the front-runner for the Democratic presidential nomination.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he will release the "fully declassified" transcript of a controversial call with Ukraine's president which is fueling Democratic calls for his impeachment.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he will release the "fully declassified" transcript of a controversial call with Ukraine's president which is fueling Democratic calls for his impeachment. "I am currently at the United Nations representing our country but have authorised the release tomorrow of the complete, fully declassified and unredacted transcript of my phone conversation with President Zelensky of Ukraine," Trump tweeted. ....You will see it was a very friendly and totally appropriate call. No pressure and, unlike Joe Biden and his son, NO quid pro quo! This is nothing more than a continuation of the Greatest and most Destructive Witch Hunt of all time! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 24, 2019 × "You will see it was a very friendly and totally appropriate call," wrote Trump, who is accused of pressuring Zelensky to investigate his White House rival Joe Biden and his son. "No pressure and, unlike Joe Biden and his son, NO quid pro quo!" The latest development comes after Trump confirmed he had withheld nearly $400 million in US aid to Ukraine but denied he did so as leverage to get its president to initiate an investigation that would damage Democratic political rival, Joe Biden. In remarks to reporters over the intensifying controversy, Trump sought to portray that there was nothing sinister about withholding the aid, saying he wanted Europe and not just the United States step up and provide Ukraine assistance. The money was later released by the Trump administration. Trump is seeking re-election next year and Biden, the former US vice president, is the front-runner for the Democratic presidential nomination.

Have authorised release of fully declassified transcript of my call with Ukraine's president: Donald Trump

Macron meets Rouhani at UNGA but Trump stays away

Facebook has removed a group of pages on its platform reportedly linked to Ukraine which featured US patriotic messages and praise for President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-denies-pressurising-ukraine-into-investigating-joe-biden-for-corruption-251618">Donald Trump</a>, with posts seen by millions of users.

The social media giant said in an email Tuesday it had taken down "I Love America" and related pages "for violating our policies against spam and fake accounts, and are continuing to investigate for any further violations."

The move came a day after an investigation published by the left-leaning news site Popular Information which said the page was registered to Ukrainian media strategist Andriy Zyuzikov and regularly posted pro-Trump themes and a considerable amount of misinformation.

The messages ranged from innocuous posts such as "Everyone should respect and stand for our American Flag" to fake statements, including one saying Hillary Clinton had sold her email access to foreign governments.

According to analytics cited by Popular Info, the I Love America page had 1.1 million fans and more than nine million interactions over the past three months -- more than news sites such as BuzzFeed and the Los Angeles Times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-buys-startup-working-on-mind-control-of-machines-251624">Facebook</a> so far has not found any links from the page to "state actors" but made a decision to block the operation because of spam and so-called clickbait which violate its policies.

The news report said the page was recycling hoaxes and false information used by Russia's Internet Research Agency as part of efforts to manipulate voters in the 2016 US election.

Related pages also removed included names such as "Cute or Not?" and "God bless Donald and Melania Trump and God bless America," which according to Popular Info were also controlled from Ukraine and posted similar messages.

The move comes with Facebook and other platforms under pressure to curb misinformation and efforts by state-controlled entities to interfere in elections of other countries.

Facebook has removed a group of pages on its platform reportedly linked to Ukraine which featured US patriotic messages and praise for President Donald Trump, with posts seen by millions of users.

Facebook has removed a group of pages on its platform reportedly linked to Ukraine which featured US patriotic messages and praise for President Donald Trump, with posts seen by millions of users. The social media giant said in an email Tuesday it had taken down "I Love America" and related pages "for violating our policies against spam and fake accounts, and are continuing to investigate for any further violations." The move came a day after an investigation published by the left-leaning news site Popular Information which said the page was registered to Ukrainian media strategist Andriy Zyuzikov and regularly posted pro-Trump themes and a considerable amount of misinformation. The messages ranged from innocuous posts such as "Everyone should respect and stand for our American Flag" to fake statements, including one saying Hillary Clinton had sold her email access to foreign governments. According to analytics cited by Popular Info, the I Love America page had 1.1 million fans and more than nine million interactions over the past three months -- more than news sites such as BuzzFeed and the Los Angeles Times. Facebook so far has not found any links from the page to "state actors" but made a decision to block the operation because of spam and so-called clickbait which violate its policies. The news report said the page was recycling hoaxes and false information used by Russia's Internet Research Agency as part of efforts to manipulate voters in the 2016 US election. Related pages also removed included names such as "Cute or Not?" and "God bless Donald and Melania Trump and God bless America," which according to Popular Info were also controlled from Ukraine and posted similar messages. The move comes with Facebook and other platforms under pressure to curb misinformation and efforts by state-controlled entities to interfere in elections of other countries.

Facebook takes down pro-Trump pages with reported Ukraine links

In his maiden visit to Chennai as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh awarded gallantry and meritorious service medals to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an impressive investiture ceremony held at Indian Coast Guard Air Station. The Director-General Indian Coast Guard K Natarajan, Senior Officers of the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Coast Guard along with their families graced the occasion.

The Presidents Tatrakshak Medals (PTM) and Tatrakshak Medals (TM) are awarded in recognition of selfless devotion to duty, exemplary courage and acts of valor under extreme conditions. The Defence Minister inspected Ceremonial Guard prior awarding the medals. A total of 61 awards which included 01 PTM (Gallantry), 08 PTM (Distinguished Service), 32 TM (Gallantry) and 20 TM (Meritorious Service) were conferred.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event, the Defence Minister said, “Our country is on the path to fast-paced development and unhindered maritime activity is central to the overall growth trajectory of our nation. This calls for a 24*7 vigil, coordination and proactive approach from all agencies in the maritime domain. The Coast Guard has been at the forefront in evolving regional co-operation and is working with international maritime agencies for testing peace in the Indian Ocean.”

Referring to the dastardly 26/11 Mumbai attacks, where the terrorists infiltrated via the sea route, Singh emphasized that land and sea security are interlinked. “A precious life is saved every second day at sea. Our country faces threats from state-funded terrorism and non-state actors.”&nbsp;

“Indian Coast Guard proved its prowess and reach by undertaking major fire-fighting operation on-board Merchant ship Daiela off Colombo, Motor Tanker Genessa off Kandla and Merchant vessel Maersk Honam on the fringes of Indian Search and Rescue Region and carved a niche among International Maritime community. The service created maritime history by seizing 1.5 tons of heroin from merchant ship Henry, causing a setback to anti-nations elements by averting misuse of funds that would have been generated from contraband sale.”

On recent rescue operations by the Coast Guard, the minister said, 4000 lives were saved during the floods in Kerala, Maharashtra and Karnataka as a part of “Operation Sahayata.”

The achievements of the ‘Sentinels of the Sea’ were hailed and the support of the family members of the Coast Guard personnel were also acknowledged.

In his maiden visit to Chennai as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh awarded gallantry and meritorious service medals to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an impressive investiture ceremony held at Indian Coast Guard Air Station.

In his maiden visit to Chennai as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh awarded gallantry and meritorious service medals to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an impressive investiture ceremony held at Indian Coast Guard Air Station. The Director-General Indian Coast Guard K Natarajan, Senior Officers of the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Coast Guard along with their families graced the occasion. The Presidents Tatrakshak Medals (PTM) and Tatrakshak Medals (TM) are awarded in recognition of selfless devotion to duty, exemplary courage and acts of valor under extreme conditions. The Defence Minister inspected Ceremonial Guard prior awarding the medals. A total of 61 awards which included 01 PTM (Gallantry), 08 PTM (Distinguished Service), 32 TM (Gallantry) and 20 TM (Meritorious Service) were conferred. Speaking at the event, the Defence Minister said, “Our country is on the path to fast-paced development and unhindered maritime activity is central to the overall growth trajectory of our nation. This calls for a 24*7 vigil, coordination and proactive approach from all agencies in the maritime domain. The Coast Guard has been at the forefront in evolving regional co-operation and is working with international maritime agencies for testing peace in the Indian Ocean.” Referring to the dastardly 26/11 Mumbai attacks, where the terrorists infiltrated via the sea route, Singh emphasized that land and sea security are interlinked. “A precious life is saved every second day at sea. Our country faces threats from state-funded terrorism and non-state actors.” “Indian Coast Guard proved its prowess and reach by undertaking major fire-fighting operation on-board Merchant ship Daiela off Colombo, Motor Tanker Genessa off Kandla and Merchant vessel Maersk Honam on the fringes of Indian Search and Rescue Region and carved a niche among International Maritime community. The service created maritime history by seizing 1.5 tons of heroin from merchant ship Henry, causing a setback to anti-nations elements by averting misuse of funds that would have been generated from contraband sale.” On recent rescue operations by the Coast Guard, the minister said, 4000 lives were saved during the floods in Kerala, Maharashtra and Karnataka as a part of “Operation Sahayata.” The achievements of the ‘Sentinels of the Sea’ were hailed and the support of the family members of the Coast Guard personnel were also acknowledged.

Chennai: Coast Guard personnel awarded gallantry, meritorious service medals by Rajnath Singh

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