Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims.

Speaking to ANI, the former chief minister of Karnataka said, "It shows their (Karnataka government) negligence. Every month the state government gets tax. The state gets its share of taxes. They get several kinds of taxes. If he is saying that the treasury is empty it reflects his knowledge about the financial issues."

"They do not have any will to help people amidst hardships. This government has completely failed to provide relief to the victims," he added.

Notably, after being criticised by residents for not visiting flood-affected areas in Gadag district, Cabinet Minister CC Patil on Wednesday visited Sevala Nagar village and talked to people about the problems they face.

Patil, also the minister in-charge of Gadag district, told the locals that the state government is spending a huge amount in the flood-affected areas despite lack of funds.

"You are aware of how much money the government is spending in flood-affected areas. You even know that the government doesn`t have money. We are also not getting our MLA funds. We will see later if you want to leave this village and want to shift to a different village. I will make the arrangements," Patil said.

The death toll has gone up to 13 following the devastation caused by incessant rain and floods in Karnataka between October 18 to 24.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims.

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims. Speaking to ANI, the former chief minister of Karnataka said, "It shows their (Karnataka government) negligence. Every month the state government gets tax. The state gets its share of taxes. They get several kinds of taxes. If he is saying that the treasury is empty it reflects his knowledge about the financial issues." "They do not have any will to help people amidst hardships. This government has completely failed to provide relief to the victims," he added. Notably, after being criticised by residents for not visiting flood-affected areas in Gadag district, Cabinet Minister CC Patil on Wednesday visited Sevala Nagar village and talked to people about the problems they face. Patil, also the minister in-charge of Gadag district, told the locals that the state government is spending a huge amount in the flood-affected areas despite lack of funds. "You are aware of how much money the government is spending in flood-affected areas. You even know that the government doesn`t have money. We are also not getting our MLA funds. We will see later if you want to leave this village and want to shift to a different village. I will make the arrangements," Patil said. The death toll has gone up to 13 following the devastation caused by incessant rain and floods in Karnataka between October 18 to 24.

Siddaramaiah tears into Karnataka minister for claiming state has no funds for flood victims

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday hit out at the Congress saying that the party had not taken any action against terrorists during their regime and asserted that Prime Minister ordered a surgical strike against terrorists after the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

"During Congress time, Mauni Baba (Manmohan Singh) was our prime minister. That time terrorists used to enter the country and kill our soldiers. After Pulwama attack, Narendra Modi took action in 10 days by doing strike on terrorists based in Pakistan. He ensured that the country is safe," he said at an event here.

On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama, which killed over 40 CRPF personnel.&nbsp;

Highlighting several `positive` changes in the country, Shah that the BJP-led government abolished Article 370 which opened the doors of development for Jammu and Kashmir.

"We made positive changes in many parts of country. We abolished article 370 and 35 A and made Kashmir part of India. Doors for development in Kashmir has now opened," he said.&nbsp;

"Congress MPs in Parliament said blood rivers will flow in Kashmir as this Article (370) was abolished but nothing happened. Without firing any bullet there is peace in Kashmir. No bullet has been fired till now," the Home Minister added.&nbsp;

In August this year, the Central government revoked Article 370 which gave special provisions to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two union territories.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday hit out at the Congress saying that the party had not taken any action against terrorists during their regime and asserted that Prime Minister ordered a surgical strike against terrorists after the Pulwama attack.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday hit out at the Congress saying that the party had not taken any action against terrorists during their regime and asserted that Prime Minister ordered a surgical strike against terrorists after the Pulwama attack. "During Congress time, Mauni Baba (Manmohan Singh) was our prime minister. That time terrorists used to enter the country and kill our soldiers. After Pulwama attack, Narendra Modi took action in 10 days by doing strike on terrorists based in Pakistan. He ensured that the country is safe," he said at an event here. On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama, which killed over 40 CRPF personnel. Highlighting several `positive` changes in the country, Shah that the BJP-led government abolished Article 370 which opened the doors of development for Jammu and Kashmir. "We made positive changes in many parts of country. We abolished article 370 and 35 A and made Kashmir part of India. Doors for development in Kashmir has now opened," he said. "Congress MPs in Parliament said blood rivers will flow in Kashmir as this Article (370) was abolished but nothing happened. Without firing any bullet there is peace in Kashmir. No bullet has been fired till now," the Home Minister added. In August this year, the Central government revoked Article 370 which gave special provisions to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two union territories.

Amit Shah attacks Congress over inaction against terrorism, says PM Modi ensured India is safe

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) chief Dushyant Chautala, who will be taking oath as Haryana`s Deputy Chief Minister, said here on Saturday that the presence of his father Ajay Chautala on the occasion, who has been granted 14-day furlough, will give strength to him.

"He has been granted 14-day furlough after the Model Code of Conduct ended on Friday. At the time of this change, he will strengthen us. For me, it is a matter of great happiness," said Chautala, while addressing media persons here after meeting Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya along with Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

"The BJP-JJP has decided to give a stable government to Haryana that will work for five years," he said.

Ajay Chautala has been granted furlough and is expected to be out of Tihar jail on Sunday morning. Dushyant had on Friday met his father Ajay Chautala in Tihar jail complex.

The swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Chautala as Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana will take place at the Rajya Bhavan here at 2.15 pm on Sunday.

Along with them, the MLAs, who are going to be inducted into the Council of Ministers will also take the oath of office and secrecy.

Khattar, who is going to head the state government for the second consecutive term, along with JJP chief Chautala met Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya and staked the claim to form the government with the support of 57-MLAs in 90-member Haryana Assembly including 7 independent MLAs.

In the recently concluded Assembly poll for Haryana`s 90-member Assembly, BJP has won 40 seats, and JJP 10.

The Congress has bagged 31 seats. People have elected eight independents as their MLAs while INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala is the lone MLA of his party.&nbsp;

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) chief Dushyant Chautala, who will be taking oath as Haryana`s Deputy Chief Minister, said here on Saturday that the presence of his father Ajay Chautala on the occasion, who has been granted 14-day furlough, will give strength to him.

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) chief Dushyant Chautala, who will be taking oath as Haryana`s Deputy Chief Minister, said here on Saturday that the presence of his father Ajay Chautala on the occasion, who has been granted 14-day furlough, will give strength to him. "He has been granted 14-day furlough after the Model Code of Conduct ended on Friday. At the time of this change, he will strengthen us. For me, it is a matter of great happiness," said Chautala, while addressing media persons here after meeting Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya along with Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. "The BJP-JJP has decided to give a stable government to Haryana that will work for five years," he said. Ajay Chautala has been granted furlough and is expected to be out of Tihar jail on Sunday morning. Dushyant had on Friday met his father Ajay Chautala in Tihar jail complex. The swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Chautala as Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana will take place at the Rajya Bhavan here at 2.15 pm on Sunday. Along with them, the MLAs, who are going to be inducted into the Council of Ministers will also take the oath of office and secrecy. Khattar, who is going to head the state government for the second consecutive term, along with JJP chief Chautala met Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya and staked the claim to form the government with the support of 57-MLAs in 90-member Haryana Assembly including 7 independent MLAs. In the recently concluded Assembly poll for Haryana`s 90-member Assembly, BJP has won 40 seats, and JJP 10. The Congress has bagged 31 seats. People have elected eight independents as their MLAs while INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala is the lone MLA of his party.

My father's presence will provide strength to me: Dushyant Chautala

Amidst furore over Gopal Kanda`s backing to the BJP for government formation in Haryana, the party on Saturday cleared that it would not take any support from his Haryana Lokhit Party leader.

"No question of including Gopal Kanda in the government, neither are we taking his support," Senior Haryana BJP leader Anil Vij, told ANI.&nbsp;

Kanda, who won from the Sirsa Assembly constituency in the recently held Haryana election, allegedly abetted suicide of a young air hostess who worked for his aviation company in 2012.&nbsp;

A few months later, the girl`s mother had also allegedly killed herself.

As the results were declared on Thursday, Kanda pledged support to the BJP.&nbsp;

Expressing discontent, senior party leader Uma Bharti on Friday urged party leaders to remember the moral values of their organisation.&nbsp;

"If Gopal Kanda is the same person because of whom a girl had committed suicide and her mother also committed suicide as she did not get justice. The case is still pending in court, and this person is out on bail," she tweeted.

"Whether Gopal Kanda is innocent or criminal will be decided by law on the basis of evidence, but winning an election does not acquit him of crimes. There are many factors in winning an election," she added.&nbsp;

The BJP won 40 seats in the Haryana Assembly elections and tried to stitch up an alliance with Independents. However, it came under attack from the opposition over taking support from Kanda.

Later the BJP sealed an alliance with Dushyant Chautala`s newly formed political outfit Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), which won 10 seats in the 90-member Haryana Assembly.

"We have formed the alliance for the benefit of the state," he said while speaking to reporters here and added that he believes the alliance will last for five years.

"We are not taking support from anyone. Who is supporting whom in the (Legislative Assembly)) House is an independent decision of that individual (hum kahi kisi ko nahin le rahe hain... house me kaun kisko support krta hai...ye uss admi ka independent faisla hai)," he said.

On the BJP`s aim to achieve more than 75 seats in the state, Vij said, "We need to think seriously about the shortcomings. We will ask the workers about it."

Asked about several Ministers from the Haryana Cabinet losing the elections, the senior BJP leader said, "When I am saying that we will think, then we will think about all these issues. But it is necessary to ask those who lost before that. It will not be right to come to a conclusion without consulting them."

He also took a jibe at Bhupinder Singh Hooda saying the former Chief Minister should tell how did he run the government for five years when he got 40 MLAs.

On October 25, it was reported that The BJP and Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) have decided to come together to form a government in Haryana and it will have deputy chief minister from the regional party.&nbsp;

Amidst furore over Gopal Kanda`s backing to the BJP for government formation in Haryana, the party on Saturday cleared that it would not take any support from his Haryana Lokhit Party leader.

Amidst furore over Gopal Kanda`s backing to the BJP for government formation in Haryana, the party on Saturday cleared that it would not take any support from his Haryana Lokhit Party leader. "No question of including Gopal Kanda in the government, neither are we taking his support," Senior Haryana BJP leader Anil Vij, told ANI. Kanda, who won from the Sirsa Assembly constituency in the recently held Haryana election, allegedly abetted suicide of a young air hostess who worked for his aviation company in 2012. A few months later, the girl`s mother had also allegedly killed herself. As the results were declared on Thursday, Kanda pledged support to the BJP. Expressing discontent, senior party leader Uma Bharti on Friday urged party leaders to remember the moral values of their organisation. "If Gopal Kanda is the same person because of whom a girl had committed suicide and her mother also committed suicide as she did not get justice. The case is still pending in court, and this person is out on bail," she tweeted. "Whether Gopal Kanda is innocent or criminal will be decided by law on the basis of evidence, but winning an election does not acquit him of crimes. There are many factors in winning an election," she added. The BJP won 40 seats in the Haryana Assembly elections and tried to stitch up an alliance with Independents. However, it came under attack from the opposition over taking support from Kanda. Later the BJP sealed an alliance with Dushyant Chautala`s newly formed political outfit Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), which won 10 seats in the 90-member Haryana Assembly. "We have formed the alliance for the benefit of the state," he said while speaking to reporters here and added that he believes the alliance will last for five years. "We are not taking support from anyone. Who is supporting whom in the (Legislative Assembly)) House is an independent decision of that individual (hum kahi kisi ko nahin le rahe hain... house me kaun kisko support krta hai...ye uss admi ka independent faisla hai)," he said. On the BJP`s aim to achieve more than 75 seats in the state, Vij said, "We need to think seriously about the shortcomings. We will ask the workers about it." Asked about several Ministers from the Haryana Cabinet losing the elections, the senior BJP leader said, "When I am saying that we will think, then we will think about all these issues. But it is necessary to ask those who lost before that. It will not be right to come to a conclusion without consulting them." He also took a jibe at Bhupinder Singh Hooda saying the former Chief Minister should tell how did he run the government for five years when he got 40 MLAs. On October 25, it was reported that The BJP and Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) have decided to come together to form a government in Haryana and it will have deputy chief minister from the regional party.

Not taking Gopal Kanda's support, alliance with JJP for Haryana's benefit: Anil Vij

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections.

"In our meeting, it was decided that like Amit Shah had promised 50-50 formula before Lok Sabha polls. So, both allies should get a chance to run the government for 2.5-2.5 years and Shiv Sena should also have Chief Minister. Uddhav ji should get this assurance in writing from BJP," Sarnaik, Shiv Sena MLA from Thane told reporters here.

The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections.&nbsp;

Both parties also contested 2019 Lok Sabha elections and bagged 42 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections.

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections. "In our meeting, it was decided that like Amit Shah had promised 50-50 formula before Lok Sabha polls. So, both allies should get a chance to run the government for 2.5-2.5 years and Shiv Sena should also have Chief Minister. Uddhav ji should get this assurance in writing from BJP," Sarnaik, Shiv Sena MLA from Thane told reporters here. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats. Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections. Both parties also contested 2019 Lok Sabha elections and bagged 42 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena MLA asks BJP for written assurance on implementation of 50-50 formula

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue.

"For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area. I met the Mayor and the Commissioner of the district but they are not doing anything," Arvind Kumar Pankaj, a local, told ANI.

"People are facing many problems. In every house, one person is suffering from disease," added Pankaj.

A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. School students are also facing the problem because of waterlogging.&nbsp;

Varsha, a student, said that she was not going to school for weeks because of the floodwater.

"This area is always waterlogged but from the past one month, the level of water has increased due to rainwater. The gutter holes are open. We are facing problems," said Dinanath Gupta, a resident said.

Several areas of the city were flooded by rainwater with Rajendra Nagar being one of the worst affected areas.Low-lying areas like Kankarbagh, Gardani Bagh, Dak Bungalow and SK Puri have also been affected severely.

As per the state`s Health Department, as many as 900 dengue cases have been reported from across the city since September.Heavy rains had claimed the lives of over 73 people in Bihar.

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue. "For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area.

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue. "For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area. I met the Mayor and the Commissioner of the district but they are not doing anything," Arvind Kumar Pankaj, a local, told ANI. "People are facing many problems. In every house, one person is suffering from disease," added Pankaj. A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. School students are also facing the problem because of waterlogging. Varsha, a student, said that she was not going to school for weeks because of the floodwater. "This area is always waterlogged but from the past one month, the level of water has increased due to rainwater. The gutter holes are open. We are facing problems," said Dinanath Gupta, a resident said. Several areas of the city were flooded by rainwater with Rajendra Nagar being one of the worst affected areas.Low-lying areas like Kankarbagh, Gardani Bagh, Dak Bungalow and SK Puri have also been affected severely. As per the state`s Health Department, as many as 900 dengue cases have been reported from across the city since September.Heavy rains had claimed the lives of over 73 people in Bihar.

Bihar: Waterlogging, water-borne diseases continue to haunt residents of Patna

In another embarrassment for Pakistan, popular TikTok star Hareem Shah was seen inside a conference room at the foreign ministry office in a video that has gone viral on the Internet.

Hareem, who has over a million fans on the social media video app was seen roaming around the high-security office and even sitting down in the chair used by the foreign minister.

Punjabi and Hindi songs were heard playing in the background of Shah`s video.&nbsp;

After the video was widely shared on the internet and drew criticism from social media users, officials said they have initiated an inquiry in the matter, local media reported.&nbsp;

Shah was quoted by local media on how she managed to get access, "Yes, I got into office after seeking permission. If it was against rules and regulations they should not have allowed me to make a video."

She added, "I also went to National Assembly, I get a pass, get my entry there properly. No security has ever stopped me, I`ve never had any obstacle. No one has helped me, I got in on my own."

Interestingly, the social media personality is no novice when it comes to meeting influential political leaders. She has been pictured with a number of politicians including Fayyaz ul Hasan Chohan.

Previously it was said that Shah was at PM secretariat but focal Person to Imran Khan, Dr Arsalan Khalid has clarified that she was actually at the Foreign Office building and that an investigation into the matter has begun.

In a previous undated snap, the TikTok star was seen posing with the Pakistani Prime Minister, which left people wondering about whether the two met before or after the video went viral.

Twitter users also wondered how Shah gained access to the building. A few people also questioned the "seriousness of this PTI Government"&nbsp;

In another embarrassment for Pakistan, popular TikTok star Hareem Shah was seen inside a conference room at the foreign ministry office in a video that has gone viral on the Internet.

In another embarrassment for Pakistan, popular TikTok star Hareem Shah was seen inside a conference room at the foreign ministry office in a video that has gone viral on the Internet. Hareem, who has over a million fans on the social media video app was seen roaming around the high-security office and even sitting down in the chair used by the foreign minister. Punjabi and Hindi songs were heard playing in the background of Shah`s video. After the video was widely shared on the internet and drew criticism from social media users, officials said they have initiated an inquiry in the matter, local media reported. Shah was quoted by local media on how she managed to get access, "Yes, I got into office after seeking permission. If it was against rules and regulations they should not have allowed me to make a video." She added, "I also went to National Assembly, I get a pass, get my entry there properly. No security has ever stopped me, I`ve never had any obstacle. No one has helped me, I got in on my own." Interestingly, the social media personality is no novice when it comes to meeting influential political leaders. She has been pictured with a number of politicians including Fayyaz ul Hasan Chohan. Previously it was said that Shah was at PM secretariat but focal Person to Imran Khan, Dr Arsalan Khalid has clarified that she was actually at the Foreign Office building and that an investigation into the matter has begun. In a previous undated snap, the TikTok star was seen posing with the Pakistani Prime Minister, which left people wondering about whether the two met before or after the video went viral. Twitter users also wondered how Shah gained access to the building. A few people also questioned the "seriousness of this PTI Government"

TikTok star Hareem Shah's video inside foreign office of Imran Khan goes viral on Internet

Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani on Wednesday resigned ahead of peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow.

In a letter addressed to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Rabbani said he had seen parallel structures had been created and key institutions were pushed to the side.

"During my time, the working environment in the National Unity Government (NUG) wasn`t good from the start. I witnessed parallel structures being created and have seen essential institutions--key pillars of the system--pushed to the side," he said, according to Tolo News.

Rabbani wrote that he was proud of serving his country under the NUG over the past five years but he also faced serious challenges during his term.

He also thanked Ghani for the opportunity given to serve Afghanistan and said he worked responsibly to protect the country`s national interests.&nbsp;

Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani on Wednesday resigned ahead of peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow. In a letter addressed to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Rabbani said he had seen parallel structures had been created and key institutions were pushed to the side.

Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani on Wednesday resigned ahead of peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow. In a letter addressed to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Rabbani said he had seen parallel structures had been created and key institutions were pushed to the side. "During my time, the working environment in the National Unity Government (NUG) wasn`t good from the start. I witnessed parallel structures being created and have seen essential institutions--key pillars of the system--pushed to the side," he said, according to Tolo News. Rabbani wrote that he was proud of serving his country under the NUG over the past five years but he also faced serious challenges during his term. He also thanked Ghani for the opportunity given to serve Afghanistan and said he worked responsibly to protect the country`s national interests.

Afghan acting foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani resigns

Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, on Wednesday approached the Delhi High Court, seeking bail in the cases filed against him by CBI and ED in connection with Rs 3,600 crore VVIP chopper deal.

Michel moved the plea through his counsel Aljo K Joseph in the High Court after a special court dismissed his bail plea by observing that the accusations against him are "serious in nature".

Michel in his bail plea contended that there is no allegation against him of tampering with the evidence or influencing witnesses.&nbsp;

The court is slated to hear his plea on Thursday.&nbsp;

Earlier, in the special court, both CBI and ED had opposed his bail plea. They submitted that he was a flight risk and could possibly flee the country.

"The material collected during the investigation is mostly documentary in nature, hence, the question of tampering with evidence does not arise. The petition has made no attempt to suborn witnesses, tamper with evidence or pollute the judicial process," the petition stated.

He further asserted that the investigating agencies failed to complete the probe within the "prescribed time".&nbsp;

"After long custodial interrogation by both the CBI and ED, no final report has been filed," it stated.

The supplementary charge sheet filed has no specific allegations with regard to the commission of offences either under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) or Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act for which the petitioner was charged, the plea submitted.

He said that the Italian court had, after considering all the material and documents, acquitted him and the entire prosecution initiated against him here amounts to "double jeopardy".

Double jeopardy prevents an accused person from being tried again on the same charges following a valid acquittal or conviction. Michel asserted that he is in judicial custody since January and his "pre-trail incarceration" is in violation of his personal liberty under the constitution.

"The petitioner is entitled to the presumption of innocence like any other accused and securing his liberty is a manifestation of such presumption," the plea stated.

In 2014, India scrapped a contract with Italian company Finmeccanica`s British subsidiary AgustaWestland for supplying 12 choppers to the Indian Air Force for allegedly breaching contractual obligations and paying kickbacks to the tune of Rs 423 crore to secure the deal.&nbsp;

Michel has been accused of bribing influential people in India to secure the deal.

Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal.

While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a `middleman` in the deal, the ED is investigating money-laundering charges against him.&nbsp;

Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, on Wednesday approached the Delhi High Court, seeking bail in the cases filed against him by CBI and ED in connection with Rs 3,600 crore VVIP chopper deal.

Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, on Wednesday approached the Delhi High Court, seeking bail in the cases filed against him by CBI and ED in connection with Rs 3,600 crore VVIP chopper deal. Michel moved the plea through his counsel Aljo K Joseph in the High Court after a special court dismissed his bail plea by observing that the accusations against him are "serious in nature". Michel in his bail plea contended that there is no allegation against him of tampering with the evidence or influencing witnesses. The court is slated to hear his plea on Thursday. Earlier, in the special court, both CBI and ED had opposed his bail plea. They submitted that he was a flight risk and could possibly flee the country. "The material collected during the investigation is mostly documentary in nature, hence, the question of tampering with evidence does not arise. The petition has made no attempt to suborn witnesses, tamper with evidence or pollute the judicial process," the petition stated. He further asserted that the investigating agencies failed to complete the probe within the "prescribed time". "After long custodial interrogation by both the CBI and ED, no final report has been filed," it stated. The supplementary charge sheet filed has no specific allegations with regard to the commission of offences either under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) or Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act for which the petitioner was charged, the plea submitted. He said that the Italian court had, after considering all the material and documents, acquitted him and the entire prosecution initiated against him here amounts to "double jeopardy". Double jeopardy prevents an accused person from being tried again on the same charges following a valid acquittal or conviction. Michel asserted that he is in judicial custody since January and his "pre-trail incarceration" is in violation of his personal liberty under the constitution. "The petitioner is entitled to the presumption of innocence like any other accused and securing his liberty is a manifestation of such presumption," the plea stated. In 2014, India scrapped a contract with Italian company Finmeccanica`s British subsidiary AgustaWestland for supplying 12 choppers to the Indian Air Force for allegedly breaching contractual obligations and paying kickbacks to the tune of Rs 423 crore to secure the deal. Michel has been accused of bribing influential people in India to secure the deal. Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal. While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a `middleman` in the deal, the ED is investigating money-laundering charges against him.

No attempts to tamper with evidence, influence witnesses: Christian Michel in bail plea in AgustaWestland case

More than 100 prisoners of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-taken-most-dangerous-isis-fighters-in-syria-trump-254848">Islamic State</a> extremist movement have escaped in Syria in the chaos since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-developments-in-turkeys-offensive-in-syria-256638">Turkey's incursion</a>, a senior US official said Wednesday.

"We would say the number is now over 100. We do not know where they are," James Jeffrey, the State Department pointman on Syria, told the House Foreign Affairs Committee when asked about the detainees.

Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after President Donald Trump agreed to pull US troops who were allied with the Syrian Democratic Forces, the Kurdish-led group that bore the brunt of the fight against the Islamic State group.

Jeffrey said that the Kurdish fighters were still guarding prisoners from the extremist group, despite their warnings that they will need to devote resources to fight Turkey instead.

"Almost all of the prisons that the SDF were guarding are still secured. The SDF still has people there," Jeffrey said.

"We are monitoring that as best we can. We still have people in Syria working with the SDF and one of those priorities is these prisons," he said.

The Kurdish fighters have pulled out of a key border area as part of a US-brokered agreement with Turkey to end the offensive.

Turkey links the Syrian Kurdish fighters to PKK separatists at home, who are considered a terrorist group by the United States and the European Union.

 
&nbsp;

More than 100 prisoners of the Islamic State extremist movement have escaped in Syria in the chaos since Turkey's incursion, a senior US official said Wednesday.

More than 100 prisoners of the Islamic State extremist movement have escaped in Syria in the chaos since Turkey's incursion, a senior US official said Wednesday. "We would say the number is now over 100. We do not know where they are," James Jeffrey, the State Department pointman on Syria, told the House Foreign Affairs Committee when asked about the detainees. Turkey launched a military operation in Syria after President Donald Trump agreed to pull US troops who were allied with the Syrian Democratic Forces, the Kurdish-led group that bore the brunt of the fight against the Islamic State group. Jeffrey said that the Kurdish fighters were still guarding prisoners from the extremist group, despite their warnings that they will need to devote resources to fight Turkey instead. "Almost all of the prisons that the SDF were guarding are still secured. The SDF still has people there," Jeffrey said. "We are monitoring that as best we can. We still have people in Syria working with the SDF and one of those priorities is these prisons," he said. The Kurdish fighters have pulled out of a key border area as part of a US-brokered agreement with Turkey to end the offensive. Turkey links the Syrian Kurdish fighters to PKK separatists at home, who are considered a terrorist group by the United States and the European Union.

More than 100 Islamic State prisoners have escaped in Syria: US envoy

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital.

"My party and I have always vouched for giving full statehood for Delhi. And we have said this everytime. So that they can look after everything from law and order, development among others," Kumar said addressing his party workers here.

The JDU chief also raised the demand for special category status for Bihar in the meeting.

"Just like we want special status for Bihar, we have always wanted statehood for Delhi," Kumar said.

The JDU is looking to contest Assembly elections next year in the national capital and is eyeing the voter base from Bihar and Poorvanchal region in Delhi.

"Even if just for a day the people of Bihar residing in Delhi decide that they will not work then the whole Delhi will come to a stop," Kumar said in an attempt to woo the voters from the region.&nbsp;

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital.

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital. "My party and I have always vouched for giving full statehood for Delhi. And we have said this everytime. So that they can look after everything from law and order, development among others," Kumar said addressing his party workers here. The JDU chief also raised the demand for special category status for Bihar in the meeting. "Just like we want special status for Bihar, we have always wanted statehood for Delhi," Kumar said. The JDU is looking to contest Assembly elections next year in the national capital and is eyeing the voter base from Bihar and Poorvanchal region in Delhi. "Even if just for a day the people of Bihar residing in Delhi decide that they will not work then the whole Delhi will come to a stop," Kumar said in an attempt to woo the voters from the region.

Nitish Kumar vouches for full statehood for Delhi

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed an FIR against former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat for allegedly trying to indulge in horse-trading in 2016, which was caught on video, officials said on Wednesday.

The case comes in line with the investigation agency`s probe into the purported 2016 video, which showed him negotiating a deal to bringing nine rebel MLAs back into Congress` fold. The state was under President`s rule at that time.&nbsp;

Apart from Rawat, former cabinet minister Harak Singh Rawat and Samachar Plus Channel CEO Umesh Kumar have also been named in the case.&nbsp;

The probe agency said that its preliminary enquiry (PE) has revealed that after passing of finance bill on March 18, 2016, in the Uttarakhand State Assembly, dissident MLAs of the Congress Party along with members from BJP left Dehradun by a chartered flight and shifted to Gurgaon, following which, Umesh Sharma visited Gurgaon and met Harak Sing Rarvat.

"During this meeting, they entered into a criminal conspiracy for the purpose of demanding gratification from Harish Rawat in lieu of his support to the Congress government," CBI said in its FIR.

The CBI also said that the 2016 video has been indicated to be genuine.

"The recorded video conversation dated 23.03.2016 has been examined by FSL, Gandhi Nagar and it has been opined that there is no addition/deletion/insertion/tampering/morphing in the video files indicating that the recordings are genuine," CBI said.

The case was registered under Sections 7 (public servant taking gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act), 8 (taking gratification, in order, by corrupt or illegal means, to influence public servant), 9 (taking gratification, for exercise of personal influence with public servant) and 12 (Punishment for abetment of offences) of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988. Nainital High Court had, on September 30, permitted the CBI to register an FIR and commence the investigation in the alleged sting case.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed an FIR against former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat for allegedly trying to indulge in horse-trading in 2016, which was caught on video, officials said on Wednesday.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed an FIR against former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat for allegedly trying to indulge in horse-trading in 2016, which was caught on video, officials said on Wednesday. The case comes in line with the investigation agency`s probe into the purported 2016 video, which showed him negotiating a deal to bringing nine rebel MLAs back into Congress` fold. The state was under President`s rule at that time. Apart from Rawat, former cabinet minister Harak Singh Rawat and Samachar Plus Channel CEO Umesh Kumar have also been named in the case. The probe agency said that its preliminary enquiry (PE) has revealed that after passing of finance bill on March 18, 2016, in the Uttarakhand State Assembly, dissident MLAs of the Congress Party along with members from BJP left Dehradun by a chartered flight and shifted to Gurgaon, following which, Umesh Sharma visited Gurgaon and met Harak Sing Rarvat. "During this meeting, they entered into a criminal conspiracy for the purpose of demanding gratification from Harish Rawat in lieu of his support to the Congress government," CBI said in its FIR. The CBI also said that the 2016 video has been indicated to be genuine. "The recorded video conversation dated 23.03.2016 has been examined by FSL, Gandhi Nagar and it has been opined that there is no addition/deletion/insertion/tampering/morphing in the video files indicating that the recordings are genuine," CBI said. The case was registered under Sections 7 (public servant taking gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act), 8 (taking gratification, in order, by corrupt or illegal means, to influence public servant), 9 (taking gratification, for exercise of personal influence with public servant) and 12 (Punishment for abetment of offences) of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988. Nainital High Court had, on September 30, permitted the CBI to register an FIR and commence the investigation in the alleged sting case.

CBI registers FIR against ex-Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat over alleged horse-trading

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Punitipandey

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