Former Indian athlete and Olympian P T Usha, 55, has been appointed as one of the six members of the Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA).

The association will be headed by 1992 Olympics gold medallist hammer thrower Andrey Abduvaliyev of Uzbekistan.

In the letter of appointment dated August 13,&nbsp;AAA Secretary-General A. Shuggumarran welcomed her to the group and said that the "sound knowledge and expertise" of the Padma awardee will contribute in the development and the success of the Asian Athletics.

P T Usha expressed her " sincere gratitude" over the appointment and tweeted, "It is an incredible honour to be part of the member of Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletic Association. I express my sincere gratitude".

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It is an incredible honour to be part of the Member of Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletic Association. I express my sincere gratitude! 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/rAGkMkrvBh">pic.twitter.com/rAGkMkrvBh</a>
— P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTUshaOfficial/status/1161307751856783360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 'Queen of Indian track and field' has previously been awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award in 1983. Two years later in 1985, she was conferred with the Padma Shri Award.

The other members of the Athletes Commission are Wang Yu of China, 2012 London Olympics gold medallist triple jumper Olga Rypakova of Kazakhstan, Lee Hup Wei of Malaysia and Saad Shaddad of Saudi Arabia.

Former Indian athlete and Olympian P T Usha, 55, has been appointed as one of the six members of the Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA).

Former Indian athlete and Olympian P T Usha, 55, has been appointed as one of the six members of the Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA). The association will be headed by 1992 Olympics gold medallist hammer thrower Andrey Abduvaliyev of Uzbekistan. In the letter of appointment dated August 13, AAA Secretary-General A. Shuggumarran welcomed her to the group and said that the "sound knowledge and expertise" of the Padma awardee will contribute in the development and the success of the Asian Athletics. P T Usha expressed her " sincere gratitude" over the appointment and tweeted, "It is an incredible honour to be part of the member of Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletic Association. I express my sincere gratitude". It is an incredible honour to be part of the Member of Athletes Commission of the Asian Athletic Association. I express my sincere gratitude! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/rAGkMkrvBh — P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) August 13, 2019 × The 'Queen of Indian track and field' has previously been awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award in 1983. Two years later in 1985, she was conferred with the Padma Shri Award. The other members of the Athletes Commission are Wang Yu of China, 2012 London Olympics gold medallist triple jumper Olga Rypakova of Kazakhstan, Lee Hup Wei of Malaysia and Saad Shaddad of Saudi Arabia.

Former athlete PT Usha appointed to Athletes Commission of Asian Athletics Association

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he wants a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-fbi-now-justice-department-probing-jeffrey-epstein-death-242081">full investigation into the circumstances</a> surrounding financier Jeffrey Epstein`s death at a federal detention facility in New York City while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serious-irregularities-at-prison-where-epstein-died-us-attorney-general-242548">Epstein </a>was found dead on Saturday morning, having apparently hanged himself in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in lower Manhattan.

"Basically what we`re saying is we want an investigation. I want a full investigation, and that`s what I absolutely am demanding. That`s what our attorney general, our great attorney general is doing. He`s doing a full investigation," Trump told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey.

Trump made the comments a day after U.S. Attorney General William Barr vowed to carry on the Epstein investigation even after the wealthy and well-connected money manager`s death. Barr has ordered the Justice Department`s inspector general to look into the matter.

Trump also defended his decision on Saturday to retweet an unfounded conspiracy theory from a conservative comedian named Terrence K. Williams that former President Bill Clinton was involved in Epstein`s death.

"He`s a very highly respected conservative pundit," said of Williams. "He`s a big Trump fan. And that was a retweet. That wasn`t from me. ... So I think I was fine."

Epstein, who once counted Trump and Clinton as friends, was arrested on July 6 and pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking involving dozens of underage girls as young as 14.

The 66-year-old financier had been on suicide watch, but a source familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity said he was not on watch at the time of his death.&nbsp;

At the MCC, two jail guards are required to make separate checks on all prisoners every 30 minutes, but that procedure was not followed overnight, according to the source.

New York City`s medical examiner has said an autopsy on Epstein was completed on Sunday, but the cause of death remained pending. 
A growing chorus of lawmakers has demanded that the government hold responsible people who allegedly helped Epstein engage in sex trafficking.

Senator Ben Sasse, the Republican chairman of the Senate Judiciary Oversight Subcommittee, on Tuesday called on Barr to void a 2008 agreement that Epstein entered into with federal prosecutors in Florida that has been widely criticized as too lenient.

Under that deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to state prostitution charges and served 13 months in jail, but was allowed to leave the detention facility regularly for his office.

'Crooked deal'

Some of Epstein`s accusers have called on the federal judge overseeing that case to scrap portions of the agreement, which provided immunity to Epstein`s alleged co-conspirators. In a letter to Barr, Sasse said the agreement should be thrown out altogether.

"This crooked deal cannot stand," and should be voided to "ensure that some measure of justice is finally delivered to Epstein`s victims who have been let down time and time again by their government," Sasse said.

One of the prosecutors involved in the 2008 agreement, Alexander Acosta, resigned as Trump`s labor secretary in July as the Epstein deal came under fresh scrutiny after the financier`s arrest in New York.

Jerrold Nadler, the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, and Doug Collins, the panel`s top Republican, on Monday sent a letter to the acting director of the federal Bureau of Prisons regarding Epstein`s death, saying the "competency and rigor of our criminal justice system" have been marred.

The lawmakers said if the allegation about mistakes made at the facility is true, it would demonstrate "severe miscarriages of or deficiencies in inmate protocol and has allowed the deceased to ultimately evade facing justice."

A representative for the agency and its acting director, Hugh Hurwitz, were not immediately available to comment.

The Epstein scandal has also enmeshed Leslie Wexner, the billionaire chairman and chief executive behind Victoria`s Secret and Bath &amp; Body Works parent L Brands Inc , who had previously entrusted Epstein to manage his personal finances and serve as trustee of his charitable foundation.

Wexner recently hired white-collar defense lawyer Mary Jo White, a partner at Debevoise &amp; Plimpton LLP and former US attorney in Manhattan, according to a person familiar with the matter, as scrutiny of Epstein`s finances intensifies.

Wexner has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing.

White, who previously chaired the US Securities and Exchange Commission, has reached out to prosecutors working on the case, the person familiar with the matter said. It was not clear what they discussed.

Neither White nor a representative for Wexner immediately responded to requests for comment. A spokesman for US Attorney Geoffrey Berman in Manhattan declined to comment.

Last week, Wexner said Epstein had "misappropriated vast sums of money from me and my family."

Wexner also said he and his family had decided Epstein should step back from managing their finances by the fall of 2007 after sexual misconduct allegations emerged, and severed ties after discovering that their money was misused.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he wants a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding financier Jeffrey Epstein`s death at a federal detention facility in New York City while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he wants a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding financier Jeffrey Epstein`s death at a federal detention facility in New York City while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Epstein was found dead on Saturday morning, having apparently hanged himself in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in lower Manhattan. "Basically what we`re saying is we want an investigation. I want a full investigation, and that`s what I absolutely am demanding. That`s what our attorney general, our great attorney general is doing. He`s doing a full investigation," Trump told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey. Trump made the comments a day after U.S. Attorney General William Barr vowed to carry on the Epstein investigation even after the wealthy and well-connected money manager`s death. Barr has ordered the Justice Department`s inspector general to look into the matter. Trump also defended his decision on Saturday to retweet an unfounded conspiracy theory from a conservative comedian named Terrence K. Williams that former President Bill Clinton was involved in Epstein`s death. "He`s a very highly respected conservative pundit," said of Williams. "He`s a big Trump fan. And that was a retweet. That wasn`t from me. ... So I think I was fine." Epstein, who once counted Trump and Clinton as friends, was arrested on July 6 and pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking involving dozens of underage girls as young as 14. The 66-year-old financier had been on suicide watch, but a source familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity said he was not on watch at the time of his death. At the MCC, two jail guards are required to make separate checks on all prisoners every 30 minutes, but that procedure was not followed overnight, according to the source. New York City`s medical examiner has said an autopsy on Epstein was completed on Sunday, but the cause of death remained pending. A growing chorus of lawmakers has demanded that the government hold responsible people who allegedly helped Epstein engage in sex trafficking. Senator Ben Sasse, the Republican chairman of the Senate Judiciary Oversight Subcommittee, on Tuesday called on Barr to void a 2008 agreement that Epstein entered into with federal prosecutors in Florida that has been widely criticized as too lenient. Under that deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to state prostitution charges and served 13 months in jail, but was allowed to leave the detention facility regularly for his office. 'Crooked deal' Some of Epstein`s accusers have called on the federal judge overseeing that case to scrap portions of the agreement, which provided immunity to Epstein`s alleged co-conspirators. In a letter to Barr, Sasse said the agreement should be thrown out altogether. "This crooked deal cannot stand," and should be voided to "ensure that some measure of justice is finally delivered to Epstein`s victims who have been let down time and time again by their government," Sasse said. One of the prosecutors involved in the 2008 agreement, Alexander Acosta, resigned as Trump`s labor secretary in July as the Epstein deal came under fresh scrutiny after the financier`s arrest in New York. Jerrold Nadler, the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, and Doug Collins, the panel`s top Republican, on Monday sent a letter to the acting director of the federal Bureau of Prisons regarding Epstein`s death, saying the "competency and rigor of our criminal justice system" have been marred. The lawmakers said if the allegation about mistakes made at the facility is true, it would demonstrate "severe miscarriages of or deficiencies in inmate protocol and has allowed the deceased to ultimately evade facing justice." A representative for the agency and its acting director, Hugh Hurwitz, were not immediately available to comment. The Epstein scandal has also enmeshed Leslie Wexner, the billionaire chairman and chief executive behind Victoria`s Secret and Bath & Body Works parent L Brands Inc , who had previously entrusted Epstein to manage his personal finances and serve as trustee of his charitable foundation. Wexner recently hired white-collar defense lawyer Mary Jo White, a partner at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP and former US attorney in Manhattan, according to a person familiar with the matter, as scrutiny of Epstein`s finances intensifies. Wexner has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing. White, who previously chaired the US Securities and Exchange Commission, has reached out to prosecutors working on the case, the person familiar with the matter said. It was not clear what they discussed. Neither White nor a representative for Wexner immediately responded to requests for comment. A spokesman for US Attorney Geoffrey Berman in Manhattan declined to comment. Last week, Wexner said Epstein had "misappropriated vast sums of money from me and my family." Wexner also said he and his family had decided Epstein should step back from managing their finances by the fall of 2007 after sexual misconduct allegations emerged, and severed ties after discovering that their money was misused.

Trump says he wants full investigation into financier Epstein's death

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday.

During a visit to London, US national security adviser John Bolton discussed with British trade minister Liz Truss the possibility of the two countries` leaders signing a road map declaration towards a trade deal.&nbsp;That could take place at this month`s G7 summit meeting in France, the official said.&nbsp;

Bolton and British finance minister Sajid Javid discussed the possibility of a temporary trade agreement that covered all sectors. Such a deal could last for something like six months, the official told reporters.&nbsp;

Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 and Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is prepared to take the country out of the bloc without a deal although he hopes to secure an orderly departure with an agreement.&nbsp;

The current impasse with the EU leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy, prompting some businesses to warn of damage to their operations.

During a two-day visit, Bolton told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson that President Donald Trump wanted to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington would be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement.

Bolton, who has now left Britain, was seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson`s predecessor, Theresa May.

A wide-ranging trade deal with the United States, seen as Britain`s closest ally, is a much-cherished prize for Brexit supporters, who hope to show the opportunities for Britain outside of the 28-member bloc and could help cushion any disruption to trade with European neighbours.&nbsp;

However, thorny issues remain over differing farming standards between the two countries and many politicians in Britain are opposed to increased involvement of US pharmaceutical firms in the state-run National Health Service.&nbsp;

Despite that, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday.

Britain and the United States are discussing a partial trade accord that could take effect on November 1, the day after Britain is due to leave the European Union, a senior Trump administration official said on Tuesday. During a visit to London, US national security adviser John Bolton discussed with British trade minister Liz Truss the possibility of the two countries` leaders signing a road map declaration towards a trade deal. That could take place at this month`s G7 summit meeting in France, the official said. Bolton and British finance minister Sajid Javid discussed the possibility of a temporary trade agreement that covered all sectors. Such a deal could last for something like six months, the official told reporters. Britain is due to leave the European Union on October 31 and Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is prepared to take the country out of the bloc without a deal although he hopes to secure an orderly departure with an agreement. The current impasse with the EU leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy, prompting some businesses to warn of damage to their operations. During a two-day visit, Bolton told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson that President Donald Trump wanted to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington would be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement. Bolton, who has now left Britain, was seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson`s predecessor, Theresa May. A wide-ranging trade deal with the United States, seen as Britain`s closest ally, is a much-cherished prize for Brexit supporters, who hope to show the opportunities for Britain outside of the 28-member bloc and could help cushion any disruption to trade with European neighbours. However, thorny issues remain over differing farming standards between the two countries and many politicians in Britain are opposed to increased involvement of US pharmaceutical firms in the state-run National Health Service. Despite that, as Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

US and Britain discuss trade deal that could take effect on November 1

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-resumes-flights-after-clashes-mass-protests-242850">Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests</a>

Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/facebook-paid-contractors-to-transcribe-users-audio-report-242853">Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report</a>

Facebook Inc&nbsp;has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asks-un-security-council-to-meet-over-india-moves-in-kashmir-242852">Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir</a>

Pakistan&nbsp;on Tuesday asked the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council&nbsp;to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/free-balochistan-movement-marks-independence-day-of-balochistan-242873">Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan</a>

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-successfully-enters-lunar-transfer-trajectory-242851">Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory</a>

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city. Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report Facebook Inc has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported. Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir Pakistan on Tuesday asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz. Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch.

It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz.

The guest speakers in the Sunday`s event included Khan of Kalat Suleman Daud, Taher Karim, FBM vice-president Shahzawar Karimzadi, Rahim Bandoi Baloch, Ismail Amiri, Mohammad AlHazbawi, Desmond Fernandes, Shabir Baloch, Tahir Karim and Graham Williamson.

Mir Suleman Daud - the Khan of Kalat - said that Balochistan was an independent country but Pakistani occupied it illegally.&nbsp;

He also said that some "Baloch Nawabs and Sardars conspired" with Pakistan to undermine the sovereignty of Balochistan. Daud said that it is on record that both the houses of parliament of Balochistan (Kalat State) refused to join Pakistan.

Suleman Daud also spoke about the recent inclusion of Balochistan Liberation Army on the terrorist list by the US administration. He emphasised that Baloch were not terrorists, they were defending their land and people from foreign invasion and aggression.

"We are trying to protect our resources from the Chinese and we are agitating because we are an occupied nation we have got the right to self-defence and I think if Germany had invaded Britain, they would have done the same. That`s what we are doing and we should keep on doing it," he added.

He said this was all politics as the US had previously banned Mujahideen Khalq (Maryam Rajavi`s party) but now they have taken this group off the terrorist list.

He also emphasised that there are several terrorist organisations whose leaders are in Pakistan even the biggest organisation like Al-Qaeda had their leaders in Pakistan.

Shabir Baloch, a member of Free Balochistan Movement, said that every country is known by its uniqueness such as Switzerland is called the playground of Europe and Japan is called the land of the rising Sun, similarly, Balochistan is called the land of hospitality and brave people.&nbsp;

The British had treaties with Balochistan but it violated those agreements when Pakistan forcibly and illegally occupied Balochistan in 1948.

He said Pakistan is committing grave human rights violations where several mass graves have been discovered but shamefully the so-called human rights organisations were silent on Balochistan`s situation.

Baloch raised a question, "whether they considered human being or not and are the Baloch right less important than those in Kosovo, East Timor, Palestine and Kashmir?."

Graham Williamson, chairman of Nations without States said that Balochistan was once a sovereign nation but Pakistan occupied it in 1948.

"The British in the process of decolonisation of the region have run away and did not honour its agreements with Balochistan to help in time of trouble. Even Britain has allowed Scotland access to a referendum but never did the same with Balochistan. He said if there was a war between Pakistan and India, Pakistan could collapse and Baloch would gain their freedom and same is the case with Iran."

The Baloch must be prepared for such situations and must organise themselves. He emphasised that unity was the key to success.

Mohammad AlHazbawi from the 15 April Movement for the liberation of Al Ahwaz expressed his support to the people of Balochistan and Baloch freedom struggle. He said, "we need to continue and intensify our struggle in accordance with ongoing changes and development in the Middle East. Iran is on the verge of collapse and occupied nations like us [Baloch, Kurd, Arab, Azeri and others] are demanding their freedom. We need to work hard, fast and united against this dangerous virus called Iran to get our freedom. We have to intensify our protests, meetings, press conferences and act together with other non-Persian nations."

He added that Iran will not easily decolonise our lands unless we all unite against this brutal regime. "We assure and urge all other nations to unite and prepare for their freedom. It is a golden opportunity for occupied nations and those under Iran's occupation as the whole world is against Iran and we must not miss this opportunity. United we can win our freedom," Mohammad said.

Desmond Fernandes, a former lecturer at De Montfort University and a genocide scholar, said Pakistani military keeps blocking districts and town in Balochistan and no one is given access to these people and there is continuous genocide of Baloch nation. Baloch people are being killed, tortured and disappeared systematically from all walks of life.

He added that the Pakistani Army has committed crimes against humanity by bombing innocent people in Balochistan. Pakistan`s Prime Minister Imran Khan made several promises to Baloch people and claimed to end military aggression in Balochistan before he came to power but now he`s repeating and continuing the same crimes that the previous governments had committed.

Taher Karim, a representative of Arab Front for The liberation of AL Ahwaz, said, "We and Baloch including other minorities have suffered enough at hands of criminal state Iran."

He congratulated the Baloch people on the day of their freedom and FBM activists for organising a successful gathering in London.

He said, `Balochistan was an independent country for a year and then Pakistan forcibly and illegally occupied it.`

He saluted the struggle of Baloch people for their freedom and independence. He said, "Baloch nation has given enormous sacrifices for their freedom and to get rid of Iranian and Pakistani occupation. The Baloch are still bravely striving for their freedom and supporting all other oppressed nation.We the sons of Al-Ahwaz, Baloch, Kurds, Azerbaijani and other occupied nations under Iran`s occupation should stand together and raise our voice together against the Iranian regime. We will continue to strive for our freedom at all costs."

All freeborn people of the world who believe in peace and liberty should support the oppressed nations. It is, however, the unity of occupied nations that will lead them to their freedom and victory. Determined nations always win at the end of the day. There is always an end to darkness and slavery and we will get our freedom like all other nations who gained their freedom from the tyrant and brutal occupiers," Mr Karim added.

"The Iranian terrorist government is executing our beloved sons, brothers and relatives - I mean the Baloch, Kurds and other non-Persian nations.Raheem Bandoi has said that unity is power if you use it wisely which we need as a suffering nation. He said the enemies of the Baloch nation has always used the weakest points by pitting one tribe against another tribe to benefit from their internal conflicts which have been fuelled by Pakistan so the terrorist state can use it as divide and rule. This theory was used by British colonial powers, Pakistan`s Jinnah, Iran`s Reza Shah and other enemies of Balochistan.&nbsp;

He said, "Unity is the most common tool and mean to be powerful it`s used wisely."

Ismail Amiri said that August 11 should be celebrated a day of happiness and unity because it is our Independence Day and 27th of March should be mourned as black day because our country was occupied on this day. All major Baloch political parties and the majority of Baloch people agree on commemorating and celebrating on August 11.

He said Baloch patriots and pro-freedom parties must unite on national symbols such as the flag of Balochistan because these are the symbols that show our nationhood and oneness as a nation.&nbsp;

Shahzawar Karimzadi said, "We had our free state until 1839 when Britain attacked Balochistan and divided it into three parts. From the first day, Pakistan was an artificial and double standard country which was made to destroy peace and stability. Since the creation of Pakistan millions of people were killed by this monster Islamic extremist state."

He talked in detail about the creation of Pakistan and its ongoing hooliganism against Afghanistan, Balochistan and India. He said that the world has ignored Pakistan crimes against humanity against people of Bangladesh that is why now Pakistan was against continuing its terrorism in Balochistan with immunity from the international community.&nbsp;

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz.

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz. The guest speakers in the Sunday`s event included Khan of Kalat Suleman Daud, Taher Karim, FBM vice-president Shahzawar Karimzadi, Rahim Bandoi Baloch, Ismail Amiri, Mohammad AlHazbawi, Desmond Fernandes, Shabir Baloch, Tahir Karim and Graham Williamson. Mir Suleman Daud - the Khan of Kalat - said that Balochistan was an independent country but Pakistani occupied it illegally. He also said that some "Baloch Nawabs and Sardars conspired" with Pakistan to undermine the sovereignty of Balochistan. Daud said that it is on record that both the houses of parliament of Balochistan (Kalat State) refused to join Pakistan. Suleman Daud also spoke about the recent inclusion of Balochistan Liberation Army on the terrorist list by the US administration. He emphasised that Baloch were not terrorists, they were defending their land and people from foreign invasion and aggression. "We are trying to protect our resources from the Chinese and we are agitating because we are an occupied nation we have got the right to self-defence and I think if Germany had invaded Britain, they would have done the same. That`s what we are doing and we should keep on doing it," he added. He said this was all politics as the US had previously banned Mujahideen Khalq (Maryam Rajavi`s party) but now they have taken this group off the terrorist list. He also emphasised that there are several terrorist organisations whose leaders are in Pakistan even the biggest organisation like Al-Qaeda had their leaders in Pakistan. Shabir Baloch, a member of Free Balochistan Movement, said that every country is known by its uniqueness such as Switzerland is called the playground of Europe and Japan is called the land of the rising Sun, similarly, Balochistan is called the land of hospitality and brave people. The British had treaties with Balochistan but it violated those agreements when Pakistan forcibly and illegally occupied Balochistan in 1948. He said Pakistan is committing grave human rights violations where several mass graves have been discovered but shamefully the so-called human rights organisations were silent on Balochistan`s situation. Baloch raised a question, "whether they considered human being or not and are the Baloch right less important than those in Kosovo, East Timor, Palestine and Kashmir?." Graham Williamson, chairman of Nations without States said that Balochistan was once a sovereign nation but Pakistan occupied it in 1948. "The British in the process of decolonisation of the region have run away and did not honour its agreements with Balochistan to help in time of trouble. Even Britain has allowed Scotland access to a referendum but never did the same with Balochistan. He said if there was a war between Pakistan and India, Pakistan could collapse and Baloch would gain their freedom and same is the case with Iran." The Baloch must be prepared for such situations and must organise themselves. He emphasised that unity was the key to success. Mohammad AlHazbawi from the 15 April Movement for the liberation of Al Ahwaz expressed his support to the people of Balochistan and Baloch freedom struggle. He said, "we need to continue and intensify our struggle in accordance with ongoing changes and development in the Middle East. Iran is on the verge of collapse and occupied nations like us [Baloch, Kurd, Arab, Azeri and others] are demanding their freedom. We need to work hard, fast and united against this dangerous virus called Iran to get our freedom. We have to intensify our protests, meetings, press conferences and act together with other non-Persian nations." He added that Iran will not easily decolonise our lands unless we all unite against this brutal regime. "We assure and urge all other nations to unite and prepare for their freedom. It is a golden opportunity for occupied nations and those under Iran's occupation as the whole world is against Iran and we must not miss this opportunity. United we can win our freedom," Mohammad said. Desmond Fernandes, a former lecturer at De Montfort University and a genocide scholar, said Pakistani military keeps blocking districts and town in Balochistan and no one is given access to these people and there is continuous genocide of Baloch nation. Baloch people are being killed, tortured and disappeared systematically from all walks of life. He added that the Pakistani Army has committed crimes against humanity by bombing innocent people in Balochistan. Pakistan`s Prime Minister Imran Khan made several promises to Baloch people and claimed to end military aggression in Balochistan before he came to power but now he`s repeating and continuing the same crimes that the previous governments had committed. Taher Karim, a representative of Arab Front for The liberation of AL Ahwaz, said, "We and Baloch including other minorities have suffered enough at hands of criminal state Iran." He congratulated the Baloch people on the day of their freedom and FBM activists for organising a successful gathering in London. He said, `Balochistan was an independent country for a year and then Pakistan forcibly and illegally occupied it.` He saluted the struggle of Baloch people for their freedom and independence. He said, "Baloch nation has given enormous sacrifices for their freedom and to get rid of Iranian and Pakistani occupation. The Baloch are still bravely striving for their freedom and supporting all other oppressed nation.We the sons of Al-Ahwaz, Baloch, Kurds, Azerbaijani and other occupied nations under Iran`s occupation should stand together and raise our voice together against the Iranian regime. We will continue to strive for our freedom at all costs." All freeborn people of the world who believe in peace and liberty should support the oppressed nations. It is, however, the unity of occupied nations that will lead them to their freedom and victory. Determined nations always win at the end of the day. There is always an end to darkness and slavery and we will get our freedom like all other nations who gained their freedom from the tyrant and brutal occupiers," Mr Karim added. "The Iranian terrorist government is executing our beloved sons, brothers and relatives - I mean the Baloch, Kurds and other non-Persian nations.Raheem Bandoi has said that unity is power if you use it wisely which we need as a suffering nation. He said the enemies of the Baloch nation has always used the weakest points by pitting one tribe against another tribe to benefit from their internal conflicts which have been fuelled by Pakistan so the terrorist state can use it as divide and rule. This theory was used by British colonial powers, Pakistan`s Jinnah, Iran`s Reza Shah and other enemies of Balochistan. He said, "Unity is the most common tool and mean to be powerful it`s used wisely." Ismail Amiri said that August 11 should be celebrated a day of happiness and unity because it is our Independence Day and 27th of March should be mourned as black day because our country was occupied on this day. All major Baloch political parties and the majority of Baloch people agree on commemorating and celebrating on August 11. He said Baloch patriots and pro-freedom parties must unite on national symbols such as the flag of Balochistan because these are the symbols that show our nationhood and oneness as a nation. Shahzawar Karimzadi said, "We had our free state until 1839 when Britain attacked Balochistan and divided it into three parts. From the first day, Pakistan was an artificial and double standard country which was made to destroy peace and stability. Since the creation of Pakistan millions of people were killed by this monster Islamic extremist state." He talked in detail about the creation of Pakistan and its ongoing hooliganism against Afghanistan, Balochistan and India. He said that the world has ignored Pakistan crimes against humanity against people of Bangladesh that is why now Pakistan was against continuing its terrorism in Balochistan with immunity from the international community.

Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-will-win-says-maduro-after-new-us-sanctions-241548">Venezuela</a>'s opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-people-protests-against-imposed-sanctions-241437">government</a>.

Elections to renew the National Assembly, the only branch of government under opposition control, are set for December 2020.

But the Constituent Assembly, a rival body created by the Maduro regime and given extraordinary powers superseding the National Assembly, has hinted at the possibility of ordering early elections.

Such a maneuver could threaten the opposition's hold on the National Assembly and with it Guaido's claim as head of the legislature to be the country's legitimate president.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-pro-government-legislature-holds-session-may-disband-congress-242540">Guaido</a> insisted it would backfire, further isolating Maduro, who has so far withstood opposition challenges to his presidency with the support of the military.

"What would happen if the regime dared to -- and it could -- bring forward an irregular convocation for elections without any conditions?" said Guaido.

"They will drown in contradictions, in isolation -- they will drown in disaster."

Constituent Assembly president Diosdado Cabello, the most powerful regime figure after Maduro, admitted on Monday the move was a "counter-attack" after the United States increased its sanctions on the government.

Venezuela has been locked in a political crisis since the legislature branded Maduro a "usurper" in January over his controversial re-election last year in a poll widely denounced as rigged.

As the head of the National Assembly, Guaido demanded Maduro step down and declared himself acting president in a move recognized by more than 50 countries.

The government and the opposition have engaged in Norwegian-mediated talks but those negotiations appear blocked over the opposition's demand that Maduro step down so new elections can be held.

In the meantime, the regime has stepped up pressure on opposition legislators by stripping 25 of them of their parliamentary immunity over their alleged support for a failed April uprising instigated by Guaido.

The European Union's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini's spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said these moves were "another direct attack on the only democratically elected body in Venezuela."

US President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the "international community to hold the tyrant Maduro accountable." 
&nbsp;

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the government.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the government. Elections to renew the National Assembly, the only branch of government under opposition control, are set for December 2020. But the Constituent Assembly, a rival body created by the Maduro regime and given extraordinary powers superseding the National Assembly, has hinted at the possibility of ordering early elections. Such a maneuver could threaten the opposition's hold on the National Assembly and with it Guaido's claim as head of the legislature to be the country's legitimate president. But Guaido insisted it would backfire, further isolating Maduro, who has so far withstood opposition challenges to his presidency with the support of the military. "What would happen if the regime dared to -- and it could -- bring forward an irregular convocation for elections without any conditions?" said Guaido. "They will drown in contradictions, in isolation -- they will drown in disaster." Constituent Assembly president Diosdado Cabello, the most powerful regime figure after Maduro, admitted on Monday the move was a "counter-attack" after the United States increased its sanctions on the government. Venezuela has been locked in a political crisis since the legislature branded Maduro a "usurper" in January over his controversial re-election last year in a poll widely denounced as rigged. As the head of the National Assembly, Guaido demanded Maduro step down and declared himself acting president in a move recognized by more than 50 countries. The government and the opposition have engaged in Norwegian-mediated talks but those negotiations appear blocked over the opposition's demand that Maduro step down so new elections can be held. In the meantime, the regime has stepped up pressure on opposition legislators by stripping 25 of them of their parliamentary immunity over their alleged support for a failed April uprising instigated by Guaido. The European Union's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini's spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said these moves were "another direct attack on the only democratically elected body in Venezuela." US President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the "international community to hold the tyrant Maduro accountable."

Juan Guaido warns Venezuela's Maduro over moves to advance legislative elections

Thousands of tribal women decorated with feathers and body paint marched on Brazil's capital Tuesday denouncing the "genocidal policies" of President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces growing criticism over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-vows-to-fight-illegal-deforestation-in-brazil-240639">destruction of the Amazon</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poop-less-for-a-cleaner-planet-says-brazils-president-jair-bolsonaro-241912">Far-right Bolsonaro</a> wants to develop the rainforest -- seen as vital to combatting climate change -- by allowing more mining and farming in the region.

The latest official figures show a sharp increase in deforestation in recent months compared with a year earlier. Activists blame the rise on Bolsonaro's anti-environment rhetoric.&nbsp;

But Bolsonaro has dismissed the data as lies and sacked the head of the government agency tasked with tracking tree clearing.&nbsp;

Carrying bows, arrows and spears, the indigenous women advanced on Congress in Brasilia carrying a large banner that said "Resist to exist" as they demanded greater protection of their land.&nbsp;

"Bolsonaro wants to wipe out our lands, our ethnicities," Potira Guajajara, a 22-year-old student from the northeastern state of Maranhao, told AFP.

"There have been many invasions of our lands by hunters and gold miners."&nbsp;

Brazil's government has demarcated hundreds of territories since the 1980s for the exclusive use of its 800,000 indigenous inhabitants. Access by outsiders is strictly regulated.

Bolsonaro opposes demarcating more land, claiming indigenous people already live "like a zoo animal."

Elected last year with support from the powerful agriculture lobby, Bolsonaro has pledged to combat illegal deforestation.&nbsp;

While the government admits clearing has increased, it insists it is not as great as indicated by the National Institute for Space Research. 
&nbsp;

Thousands of tribal women decorated with feathers and body paint marched on Brazil's capital Tuesday denouncing the "genocidal policies" of President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces growing criticism over destruction of the Amazon.

Thousands of tribal women decorated with feathers and body paint marched on Brazil's capital Tuesday denouncing the "genocidal policies" of President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces growing criticism over destruction of the Amazon. Far-right Bolsonaro wants to develop the rainforest -- seen as vital to combatting climate change -- by allowing more mining and farming in the region. The latest official figures show a sharp increase in deforestation in recent months compared with a year earlier. Activists blame the rise on Bolsonaro's anti-environment rhetoric. But Bolsonaro has dismissed the data as lies and sacked the head of the government agency tasked with tracking tree clearing. Carrying bows, arrows and spears, the indigenous women advanced on Congress in Brasilia carrying a large banner that said "Resist to exist" as they demanded greater protection of their land. "Bolsonaro wants to wipe out our lands, our ethnicities," Potira Guajajara, a 22-year-old student from the northeastern state of Maranhao, told AFP. "There have been many invasions of our lands by hunters and gold miners." Brazil's government has demarcated hundreds of territories since the 1980s for the exclusive use of its 800,000 indigenous inhabitants. Access by outsiders is strictly regulated. Bolsonaro opposes demarcating more land, claiming indigenous people already live "like a zoo animal." Elected last year with support from the powerful agriculture lobby, Bolsonaro has pledged to combat illegal deforestation. While the government admits clearing has increased, it insists it is not as great as indicated by the National Institute for Space Research.

Brazil tribal women protest Bolsonaro's 'genocidal policies'

Mexico's majestic Popocatepetl volcano erupted early on Tuesday morning, in a dramatic show of ash, water vapour and gas under a canopy of stars.

The dramatic eruption at 5:43 am local time (1143 GMT) spewed ash followed by incandescent rock. Shortly after sunrise, a new plume of ash and gas emerged from the snowcapped crater, reaching some 1,000 metres (3,200 feet) into the blue sky.

Popocatepetl is 5,426 metres (17,802 feet) tall and is the second-highest mountain in Mexico and the fifth-highest in North America.

Mexico's majestic Popocatepetl volcano erupted early on Tuesday morning, in a dramatic show of ash, water vapour and gas under a canopy of stars. The dramatic eruption at 5:43 am local time (1143 GMT) spewed ash followed by incandescent rock.

Mexico's majestic Popocatepetl volcano erupted early on Tuesday morning, in a dramatic show of ash, water vapour and gas under a canopy of stars. The dramatic eruption at 5:43 am local time (1143 GMT) spewed ash followed by incandescent rock. Shortly after sunrise, a new plume of ash and gas emerged from the snowcapped crater, reaching some 1,000 metres (3,200 feet) into the blue sky. Popocatepetl is 5,426 metres (17,802 feet) tall and is the second-highest mountain in Mexico and the fifth-highest in North America.

Mexico's mighty Popo volcano blows under starry night sky

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-begins-adding-its-name-to-some-screens-on-instagram-240369">Facebook Inc </a>has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/companies-using-facebook-like-button-liable-for-data-european-union-court-239226">Facebook</a> did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Bloomberg, citing the company, reported that the users who were affected chose the option in the Messenger app to have their voice chats transcribed. The contractors were checking whether <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-facebook-fined-but-does-it-make-a-dent-238501">Facebook</a>'s artificial intelligence correctly interpreted the messages.

Shares of Facebook pared gains after the report and were up 1.66% at $188.44.

The social media company has been facing broad criticism from lawmakers and regulators over its privacy practices.

Last week, a federal appeals court rejected Facebook's effort to undo a class action lawsuit claiming that it illegally collected and stored biometric data for millions of users without their consent. The company also agreed to pay a record $5 billion fine last month to settle a US Federal Trade Commission data privacy probe.

Earlier this month, Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google globally suspended reviewing recordings from users interacting with their voice assistants, as concerns over data privacy mount.

Facebook Inc has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Facebook Inc has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported. Facebook did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Bloomberg, citing the company, reported that the users who were affected chose the option in the Messenger app to have their voice chats transcribed. The contractors were checking whether Facebook's artificial intelligence correctly interpreted the messages. Shares of Facebook pared gains after the report and were up 1.66% at $188.44. The social media company has been facing broad criticism from lawmakers and regulators over its privacy practices. Last week, a federal appeals court rejected Facebook's effort to undo a class action lawsuit claiming that it illegally collected and stored biometric data for millions of users without their consent. The company also agreed to pay a record $5 billion fine last month to settle a US Federal Trade Commission data privacy probe. Earlier this month, Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google globally suspended reviewing recordings from users interacting with their voice assistants, as concerns over data privacy mount.

Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report

Since its&nbsp;accession, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-special-terror-and-bloodshed-in-balochistan-whos-to-blame-4279">Balochistan</a>&nbsp;has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced&nbsp;genocidal policies from Pakistan&nbsp;due to the&nbsp;rich resources.

Mass graves were found in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/balochistans-struggle-inside-pakistans-secret-war-2592">Balochistan</a> for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated.

Independent investigations and international humanitarian organisations' access to the areas in question has been banned for 'security reasons'.

The enforced disappearances are an urgent issue in Balochistan. The Pakistani army and security forces have abducted and disappeared, at least 20,000 Baloch political and human rights activists since 2000. So far mutilated bodies of about 6000 of these victims have been discovered in different parts of Balochistan.

For several years political activists have accused Pakistan of taking away the resources and eliminating the people of Balochistan, the province with immense geo-strategic importance and huge untapped natural resource reserves.

Here's a brief history on the accession of Balochistan--

The Khan of Kalat, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, declared the independence of Balochistan from Britain on August 12, 1947.

The newly independent region was again annexed by Pakistan in 1948. After the accession, the Pak army entered Balochistan on April 15.

Before joining with Pakistan on March 27, 1948, &nbsp;the Balochistan Parliament had rejected several proposals of merging with Pak between December 14, 1947 and February 25, 1948.&nbsp;

The Pak army attacked the residence of the Khan of Kalat on October 6, 1958. In the same month, several political leaders of the province were arrested including the Khan of Kalat.&nbsp; 
Pakistan had also imposed Martial law in Balochistan in October 1958.

During the 1960s, protests led by Nawab and tribesmen erupted against the government in several parts of the region. Students also formed organisation and joined the protest movement against the Pakistan establishment by 1967.

The Balochi protest groups fought with the Pakistan government in 1967 and 1968. The clashes led to widespread oppression and fall of the Balochi rebels in 1969.

The government announced the formation of the province of Balochistan in July 1971 after elections. The region was later declared as a province with Mir Ghaus Bakhsh Bizenjo as the Governor.

With assistance from Iraq and Afghanistan, the rebels continued their fight against the Pakistan government which was being provided military support from the US, France and China.

The then prime minister Benazir Bhutto dismissed Governor Bizenjo and Provincial Assembly of Balochistan on February 12, 1973, and appointed a new governor Sardar Akbar Khan Bugti.&nbsp;

The clashes in the region led to the death of around 1,000 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Since its accession, Balochistan has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced genocidal policies from Pakistan due to the rich resources. Mass graves were found in Balochistan for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated.

Since its accession, Balochistan has witnessed years of brutal crackdown and faced genocidal policies from Pakistan due to the rich resources. Mass graves were found in Balochistan for the first time in 2014 in Turbat, and since then, every year the people of the region discovered similar graves in different areas, a report stated. Independent investigations and international humanitarian organisations' access to the areas in question has been banned for 'security reasons'. The enforced disappearances are an urgent issue in Balochistan. The Pakistani army and security forces have abducted and disappeared, at least 20,000 Baloch political and human rights activists since 2000. So far mutilated bodies of about 6000 of these victims have been discovered in different parts of Balochistan. For several years political activists have accused Pakistan of taking away the resources and eliminating the people of Balochistan, the province with immense geo-strategic importance and huge untapped natural resource reserves. Here's a brief history on the accession of Balochistan-- The Khan of Kalat, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, declared the independence of Balochistan from Britain on August 12, 1947. The newly independent region was again annexed by Pakistan in 1948. After the accession, the Pak army entered Balochistan on April 15. Before joining with Pakistan on March 27, 1948, the Balochistan Parliament had rejected several proposals of merging with Pak between December 14, 1947 and February 25, 1948. The Pak army attacked the residence of the Khan of Kalat on October 6, 1958. In the same month, several political leaders of the province were arrested including the Khan of Kalat. Pakistan had also imposed Martial law in Balochistan in October 1958. During the 1960s, protests led by Nawab and tribesmen erupted against the government in several parts of the region. Students also formed organisation and joined the protest movement against the Pakistan establishment by 1967. The Balochi protest groups fought with the Pakistan government in 1967 and 1968. The clashes led to widespread oppression and fall of the Balochi rebels in 1969. The government announced the formation of the province of Balochistan in July 1971 after elections. The region was later declared as a province with Mir Ghaus Bakhsh Bizenjo as the Governor. With assistance from Iraq and Afghanistan, the rebels continued their fight against the Pakistan government which was being provided military support from the US, France and China. The then prime minister Benazir Bhutto dismissed Governor Bizenjo and Provincial Assembly of Balochistan on February 12, 1973, and appointed a new governor Sardar Akbar Khan Bugti. The clashes in the region led to the death of around 1,000 people. (With inputs from agencies)

History of the war in Balochistan

The Catholic Bishops' Conference in Sri Lanka (CBCSL) has urged the government to hold an "independent and impartial" inquiry into the Easter Sunday terror attacks as a matter of utmost urgency.

In a statement signed by 14 bishops, the CBCSL on Tuesday said it has evaluated the situation in the country in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday terror attacks which resulted in the deaths of more than 250 civilians, including foreigners, and severely injured several hundred, Colombo Page reported.

The statement said the conference is saddened to note that a "fair and impartial" investigation into the terror attacks has not yet taken place.&nbsp;

It also appealed to the government that an impartial inquiry be held and the perpetrators brought before the law.

"We observe that several committees have been established and their main focus appears to be to find out those responsible for the serious lapses in security. Even though this effort is useful, we insist that as a matter of justice, the final aim of the inquiries should be to ascertain who the perpetrators are and who aided and abetted in any way in this dastardly acts. Unfortunately, we do not see any positive signs in this direction. The report of the Three Member Presidential Commission is yet to see the light of day," it said.

"The people are waiting to see the results of this inquiry as was promised to them. The government is yet to give an assurance to the people that there is only one set of laws in the country, for everyone is still in fear and there is uncertainty in the minds of the people," it added.

At the same time, the CBCSL appreciated and acknowledged the commitment of the armed forces and the police which made civic life possible amid the gloomy situation."

Therefore, we urge once again the government and all political leaders of the country to ensure an independent and impartial inquiry as a matter of utmost urgency," it said.

The eight deadly terror bombings had rattled several high-end hotels and churches across Sri Lanka on the morning of April 21 when people were busy celebrating Easter Sunday.&nbsp;

More than 250 people had lost their lives in the attacks.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference in Sri Lanka (CBCSL) has urged the government to hold an "independent and impartial" inquiry into the Easter Sunday terror attacks as a matter of utmost urgency.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference in Sri Lanka (CBCSL) has urged the government to hold an "independent and impartial" inquiry into the Easter Sunday terror attacks as a matter of utmost urgency. In a statement signed by 14 bishops, the CBCSL on Tuesday said it has evaluated the situation in the country in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday terror attacks which resulted in the deaths of more than 250 civilians, including foreigners, and severely injured several hundred, Colombo Page reported. The statement said the conference is saddened to note that a "fair and impartial" investigation into the terror attacks has not yet taken place. It also appealed to the government that an impartial inquiry be held and the perpetrators brought before the law. "We observe that several committees have been established and their main focus appears to be to find out those responsible for the serious lapses in security. Even though this effort is useful, we insist that as a matter of justice, the final aim of the inquiries should be to ascertain who the perpetrators are and who aided and abetted in any way in this dastardly acts. Unfortunately, we do not see any positive signs in this direction. The report of the Three Member Presidential Commission is yet to see the light of day," it said. "The people are waiting to see the results of this inquiry as was promised to them. The government is yet to give an assurance to the people that there is only one set of laws in the country, for everyone is still in fear and there is uncertainty in the minds of the people," it added. At the same time, the CBCSL appreciated and acknowledged the commitment of the armed forces and the police which made civic life possible amid the gloomy situation." Therefore, we urge once again the government and all political leaders of the country to ensure an independent and impartial inquiry as a matter of utmost urgency," it said. The eight deadly terror bombings had rattled several high-end hotels and churches across Sri Lanka on the morning of April 21 when people were busy celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 250 people had lost their lives in the attacks.

Catholic bishops in Sri Lanka call for independent inquiry into Easter terror attacks

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants.

Some experts say the new rule could cut legal immigration in half by denying visas and permanent residency to hundreds of thousands of people if they fail to meet high enough income standards or if they receive public assistance such as welfare, food stamps, public housing or Medicaid.&nbsp;

"This illegal rule is just another attempt to vilify immigrants," San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement. Trump has made efforts to curb both legal and illegal immigration, an issue he has made a cornerstone of his presidency and one that he has stressed again as the campaign for the 2020 presidential election heats up.

The rule, unveiled on Monday and to take effect October 15, expands the definition of a public charge, allowing denials to visa applicants who fail to meet income requirements or who receive public assistance.

"The final rule rejects the longstanding, existing definition of public charge, and attempts to redefine it to include even minimal use of a much wider range of non-cash benefits," said the lawsuit, filed in US District Court in San Francisco.

"The final rule will worsen the health and well-being of the counties` residents, increase risks to the public health, undermine the counties` health and safety-net systems, and inflict significant financial harm," the suit said.

San Francisco is both a city and a county. Santa Clara County includes the city of San Jose and various other parts of Silicon Valley.

The suit names US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Department of Homeland Security and their directors as defendants. The former agency declined to comment and the latter did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The suit claims the new rule violates the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 by contradicting the longstanding definition of public charge as a person "primarily" dependent on public assistance for survival.&nbsp;

The suit also claims the new rule would split families, undermining immigration laws to prioritize family unification; misapplies the intent of Congress on the description of self-sufficiency of immigrants; and runs contrary to the statutes governing SNAP, also known as food stamps.

The National Immigration Law Center said it also will file a lawsuit to stop the rule from taking effect. The attorneys general of California and New York have also threatened to sue.

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants.

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants. Some experts say the new rule could cut legal immigration in half by denying visas and permanent residency to hundreds of thousands of people if they fail to meet high enough income standards or if they receive public assistance such as welfare, food stamps, public housing or Medicaid. "This illegal rule is just another attempt to vilify immigrants," San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement. Trump has made efforts to curb both legal and illegal immigration, an issue he has made a cornerstone of his presidency and one that he has stressed again as the campaign for the 2020 presidential election heats up. The rule, unveiled on Monday and to take effect October 15, expands the definition of a public charge, allowing denials to visa applicants who fail to meet income requirements or who receive public assistance. "The final rule rejects the longstanding, existing definition of public charge, and attempts to redefine it to include even minimal use of a much wider range of non-cash benefits," said the lawsuit, filed in US District Court in San Francisco. "The final rule will worsen the health and well-being of the counties` residents, increase risks to the public health, undermine the counties` health and safety-net systems, and inflict significant financial harm," the suit said. San Francisco is both a city and a county. Santa Clara County includes the city of San Jose and various other parts of Silicon Valley. The suit names US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Department of Homeland Security and their directors as defendants. The former agency declined to comment and the latter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The suit claims the new rule violates the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 by contradicting the longstanding definition of public charge as a person "primarily" dependent on public assistance for survival. The suit also claims the new rule would split families, undermining immigration laws to prioritize family unification; misapplies the intent of Congress on the description of self-sufficiency of immigrants; and runs contrary to the statutes governing SNAP, also known as food stamps. The National Immigration Law Center said it also will file a lawsuit to stop the rule from taking effect. The attorneys general of California and New York have also threatened to sue.

San Francisco sues Trump administration over rule to limit legal immigration

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