Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless.

The report, titled "Cycle of Fear", was jointly produced by the Geneva-based World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) - a coalition of NGOs fighting torture and ill-treatment - and the Bangladeshi human rights group Odhikar.

OMCT said the report was based on an examination of more than 300 cases of what it called torture between 2009 and 2017 and information gathered from alleged victims, members of the executive, the judiciary, representatives of civil society and of international organisations.

Information it received revealed that "Extreme forms of physical violence" had been used on detainees, the organisation said, citing instances such as shooting in the legs or knees, the breaking of bones, drilling holes in arms and legs, and rape, as well as mental abuse, including mock executions and death threats.

Complaints of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings had increased in recent years and the government had failed to investigate and punish the perpetrators, the organisations said.

The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in a December 2018 election, rejected the report.

"We can tell you with emphasis that there is no single incident of disappearance or extrajudicial killing with the knowledge of this government," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told Reuters.

"For the last 10 years there is no lawlessness in the country or any application of torture by this government to silence dissent with any government machinery," he added.

Gerald Staberock, OMCT secretary general, said torture was used to instil fear and quash dissent, to coerce confessions or as a tool for corrupt law enforcement agents to extract bribes.

"We call on Bangladesh to acknowledge the magnitude of the problem and start a complete overhaul of its law enforcement and judiciary systems," Staberock said.

A political deadlock in Bangladesh fed "widespread impunity", the groups said. Several leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party have been jailed on charges the opposition says are politically motivated.

"While the government has declared at various times a ‘zero tolerance policy’ towards torture and other serious human rights violations, there is little evidence of such a policy ever being pursued and transformed into real accountability," the report said.

Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless.

Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless. The report, titled "Cycle of Fear", was jointly produced by the Geneva-based World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) - a coalition of NGOs fighting torture and ill-treatment - and the Bangladeshi human rights group Odhikar. OMCT said the report was based on an examination of more than 300 cases of what it called torture between 2009 and 2017 and information gathered from alleged victims, members of the executive, the judiciary, representatives of civil society and of international organisations. Information it received revealed that "Extreme forms of physical violence" had been used on detainees, the organisation said, citing instances such as shooting in the legs or knees, the breaking of bones, drilling holes in arms and legs, and rape, as well as mental abuse, including mock executions and death threats. Complaints of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings had increased in recent years and the government had failed to investigate and punish the perpetrators, the organisations said. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in a December 2018 election, rejected the report. "We can tell you with emphasis that there is no single incident of disappearance or extrajudicial killing with the knowledge of this government," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told Reuters. "For the last 10 years there is no lawlessness in the country or any application of torture by this government to silence dissent with any government machinery," he added. Gerald Staberock, OMCT secretary general, said torture was used to instil fear and quash dissent, to coerce confessions or as a tool for corrupt law enforcement agents to extract bribes. "We call on Bangladesh to acknowledge the magnitude of the problem and start a complete overhaul of its law enforcement and judiciary systems," Staberock said. A political deadlock in Bangladesh fed "widespread impunity", the groups said. Several leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party have been jailed on charges the opposition says are politically motivated. "While the government has declared at various times a ‘zero tolerance policy’ towards torture and other serious human rights violations, there is little evidence of such a policy ever being pursued and transformed into real accountability," the report said.

Human rights group accuses Bangladesh of torture; government says report 'baseless'

Olympic champion Dalilah Muhammad smashed one of athletics' oldest world records when she stormed to the women's 400 metres hurdles title in 52.20 seconds at the United States championships in Iowa on Sunday.

The blistering run shaved more than a tenth of a second from the previous mark of 52.34 seconds set by Russian Yuliya Pechonkina in 2003.

"I'm just shocked," said the 29-year-old Muhammad, who suffered a concussion after a fall during training two weeks ago.

"I've been kind of hitting that time in practice consistently and my coach was like, 'There's no way you can't do it'."

Teenager Sydney McLaughlin was second in 52.88, just 0.13 shy of her personal best, with Ashley Spencer third in 53.11, as all three runners made the US team for September's world championships in Doha.

The record could fall again there, said Muhammad, who trains in Los Angeles.

"That 52 is going to get broke," Muhammad said. "If not by me by the other women."

The first American Olympic gold medallist in the event, she had entered the American championships with a personal best of 52.64 seconds.

Twice a world silver medallist but never the champion, she went out hard in the final and was clearly the leader by the final straight.

She smiled, put her hands on her hips and slumped down after crossing the finish line.

Despite her Olympic gold medal, Muhammad had been overshadowed by the rapidly improving McLaughlin since the Rio Games.

In fact, many had expected McLaughlin, who went to the Rio Olympics as a 17-year-old, would be the to break the world record.

Asked if she thought she was underrated with all the attention McLaughlin had received, Muhammad said, "I do."

"I felt like the underdog in the race," she said.

"It definitely kept me humble this year, and even motivated me more."

The stunning record overshadowed what had been expected to the highlight of the closing day of the four-day meeting - 100 metres winner Christian Coleman challenging wunderkind Noah Lyles in the 200 metres.

Lyles, the fastest man at the distance since Usain Bolt won the Olympics gold in 2012, got the victory in 19.78 seconds with Coleman running 20.02 to make the world championships in a second event.

The two were side-by-side before Lyles pulled away in the last 60 metres.

"Tons of joy," said Lyles, who danced down the track after winning.

"This is the hardest team to make, and the saying is, once you make the US team, you better come away with a medal."

The odds are that the medal will be gold after his superb 19.50 seconds clocking in Lausanne.

The women's race went to Dezerea Bryant in 22.47 seconds.

Craig Engels edged Olympic champion Matthew Centrowitz in the men's 1,500m by four-hundredths of a second, winning in 3:44.93.

The men's 110m hurdles was the reverse of the US collegiate final with Daniel Roberts winning over Grant Holloway in 13.23. Holloway clocked 13.36.

World indoor champion Sandi Morris cleared 4.85 metres to win the women's pole vault. The 37-year-old Jenn Shur also made the Doha team, placing third (4.70m).

World champion Emma Coburn won her sixth consecutive US 3,000m steeplechase title in 9:25.63 and Lopez Lomong used a late surge to defeat Olympic 5,000m silver medallist Paul Chelimo and claim his second title of the meet after winning the 10,000.

Lomong will not be doubling up in the 5,000 and 10,000 at Doha, however, because he lacks the standard in the shorter distance.

Olympic champion Dalilah Muhammad smashed one of athletics' oldest world records when she stormed to the women's 400 metres hurdles title in 52.20 seconds at the United States championships in Iowa on Sunday.

Olympic champion Dalilah Muhammad smashed one of athletics' oldest world records when she stormed to the women's 400 metres hurdles title in 52.20 seconds at the United States championships in Iowa on Sunday. The blistering run shaved more than a tenth of a second from the previous mark of 52.34 seconds set by Russian Yuliya Pechonkina in 2003. "I'm just shocked," said the 29-year-old Muhammad, who suffered a concussion after a fall during training two weeks ago. "I've been kind of hitting that time in practice consistently and my coach was like, 'There's no way you can't do it'." Teenager Sydney McLaughlin was second in 52.88, just 0.13 shy of her personal best, with Ashley Spencer third in 53.11, as all three runners made the US team for September's world championships in Doha. The record could fall again there, said Muhammad, who trains in Los Angeles. "That 52 is going to get broke," Muhammad said. "If not by me by the other women." The first American Olympic gold medallist in the event, she had entered the American championships with a personal best of 52.64 seconds. Twice a world silver medallist but never the champion, she went out hard in the final and was clearly the leader by the final straight. She smiled, put her hands on her hips and slumped down after crossing the finish line. Despite her Olympic gold medal, Muhammad had been overshadowed by the rapidly improving McLaughlin since the Rio Games. In fact, many had expected McLaughlin, who went to the Rio Olympics as a 17-year-old, would be the to break the world record. Asked if she thought she was underrated with all the attention McLaughlin had received, Muhammad said, "I do." "I felt like the underdog in the race," she said. "It definitely kept me humble this year, and even motivated me more." The stunning record overshadowed what had been expected to the highlight of the closing day of the four-day meeting - 100 metres winner Christian Coleman challenging wunderkind Noah Lyles in the 200 metres. Lyles, the fastest man at the distance since Usain Bolt won the Olympics gold in 2012, got the victory in 19.78 seconds with Coleman running 20.02 to make the world championships in a second event. The two were side-by-side before Lyles pulled away in the last 60 metres. "Tons of joy," said Lyles, who danced down the track after winning. "This is the hardest team to make, and the saying is, once you make the US team, you better come away with a medal." The odds are that the medal will be gold after his superb 19.50 seconds clocking in Lausanne. The women's race went to Dezerea Bryant in 22.47 seconds. Craig Engels edged Olympic champion Matthew Centrowitz in the men's 1,500m by four-hundredths of a second, winning in 3:44.93. The men's 110m hurdles was the reverse of the US collegiate final with Daniel Roberts winning over Grant Holloway in 13.23. Holloway clocked 13.36. World indoor champion Sandi Morris cleared 4.85 metres to win the women's pole vault. The 37-year-old Jenn Shur also made the Doha team, placing third (4.70m). World champion Emma Coburn won her sixth consecutive US 3,000m steeplechase title in 9:25.63 and Lopez Lomong used a late surge to defeat Olympic 5,000m silver medallist Paul Chelimo and claim his second title of the meet after winning the 10,000. Lomong will not be doubling up in the 5,000 and 10,000 at Doha, however, because he lacks the standard in the shorter distance.

Olympic champion Dalilah Muhammad sets 400 metres hurdles world record, Lyles wins 200 metres

The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC).

"The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup this summer showed just how important it is for every game to count and for the world's best teams to go head-to-head. The World Test Championship will bring relevance and context to bilateral Test cricket over the next two years, creating a pinnacle event for the five-day format, just as the World Cups for men and women do in the ODI and T20I formats," Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations said in an official statement.

"We are awaiting the ICC World Test Championship with great enthusiasm as it adds context to the longest format of the game. Test cricket is very challenging and coming out on top in the traditional form is always highly satisfying. The Indian team has done really well in recent years and will be fancying its chances in the championship," Indian skipper Virat Kohli said.

The championship will begin from August 1 as Australia and England will face each other in the Ashes. WTC will comprise of the top nine Test teams in the world (Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies).

"Test cricket is the pinnacle of our sport. It is the very essence of cricket and the majority of players want to strive to play the purest form of the game. The ICC World Test Championship is another brilliant initiative for the sport, adding context and relevance to every Test series. Every Test matters, but even more so now," England pacer James Anderson said.

"The World Test Championship is a fantastic initiative. We love playing Test cricket, it's the pinnacle for us, remains hugely popular in Australia and we're fortunate that it enjoys great support at home among players, the media and the public. To wear the baggy green is the ultimate for all Australian cricketers and if the World Test Championship helps to ensure that all countries make Tests a high priority then that has to be good news for the game in general and the continuing health of the format in particular," Australian skipper Tim Paine said.

In the championship, a total of 71 Test matches will be played across 27 series over two years. The top two teams will then contest in the ICC World Test Championship final in June 2021 in the UK.

Points will be up for grabs during each match and each team will play three home and three away series. Each series will count for 120 points, distributed over the number of matches in a series.

For example, a two-match series will mean 60 points for each Test while a three-match series will give 40 points to each Test match. A tie will be 50 per cent of the points available, whereas a draw will be a 3:1 points ratio.

The matches will be played in the same format as bilateral series but with the added context of a competition and one champion team. The number of matches in each series can vary between a minimum of two matches, to a maximum of five matches.

The first cycle of the WTC consists of only five-day matches and will include day-night matches. Only matches identified as part of the WTC will count towards the championship.

The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC). "The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup this summer showed just how important it is for every game to count and for the world's best teams to go head-to-head.

The apex cricketing body, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday officially launched the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC). "The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup this summer showed just how important it is for every game to count and for the world's best teams to go head-to-head. The World Test Championship will bring relevance and context to bilateral Test cricket over the next two years, creating a pinnacle event for the five-day format, just as the World Cups for men and women do in the ODI and T20I formats," Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations said in an official statement. "We are awaiting the ICC World Test Championship with great enthusiasm as it adds context to the longest format of the game. Test cricket is very challenging and coming out on top in the traditional form is always highly satisfying. The Indian team has done really well in recent years and will be fancying its chances in the championship," Indian skipper Virat Kohli said. The championship will begin from August 1 as Australia and England will face each other in the Ashes. WTC will comprise of the top nine Test teams in the world (Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies). "Test cricket is the pinnacle of our sport. It is the very essence of cricket and the majority of players want to strive to play the purest form of the game. The ICC World Test Championship is another brilliant initiative for the sport, adding context and relevance to every Test series. Every Test matters, but even more so now," England pacer James Anderson said. "The World Test Championship is a fantastic initiative. We love playing Test cricket, it's the pinnacle for us, remains hugely popular in Australia and we're fortunate that it enjoys great support at home among players, the media and the public. To wear the baggy green is the ultimate for all Australian cricketers and if the World Test Championship helps to ensure that all countries make Tests a high priority then that has to be good news for the game in general and the continuing health of the format in particular," Australian skipper Tim Paine said. In the championship, a total of 71 Test matches will be played across 27 series over two years. The top two teams will then contest in the ICC World Test Championship final in June 2021 in the UK. Points will be up for grabs during each match and each team will play three home and three away series. Each series will count for 120 points, distributed over the number of matches in a series. For example, a two-match series will mean 60 points for each Test while a three-match series will give 40 points to each Test match. A tie will be 50 per cent of the points available, whereas a draw will be a 3:1 points ratio. The matches will be played in the same format as bilateral series but with the added context of a competition and one champion team. The number of matches in each series can vary between a minimum of two matches, to a maximum of five matches. The first cycle of the WTC consists of only five-day matches and will include day-night matches. Only matches identified as part of the WTC will count towards the championship.

International Cricket Council officially launches World Test Championship

JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was not answerable to c<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-chief-minister-bs-yediyurappa-wins-trust-vote-in-assembly-239160">hief minister B S Yediyurapp</a>a as he had run the government in the Karnataka with utmost clarity amongst the people.

"I ran the government for 14 months. I have no obligation to answer your (BS Yediyurappa) questions. I need to answer to my conscience. From the past 14 months, everything was being recorded. People know what work I have done," Kumaraswamy said at the Vidhan Soudha just before Yediyurappa won trust vote through voice vote today.

In a veiled jibe at the BJP leader, Kumaraswamy added that the JD(S) will not try to bring down their numbers in the Assembly and will work with them for the benefit of the people.

"We will not try to bring down your numbers from 105 to either 100 or lower. You speak of drought, at least now let's see how you will work. We will cooperate with you for the sake of people," Kumaraswamy said.

He also accused BJP of leaving the rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs to their fate and praised the Speaker for the way in which he acted throughout the fall of the coalition government. "You(BJP) have left the dissenting and rebel MLAs on roads. Since last week I have been seeing all the developments.&nbsp;

Speaker's decision sends a strong message. He didn't act in a hurry. He looked into the matter very carefully and looked into each case," he added.

Earlier, Congress leader Siddaramaiah also attacked Yediyurappa and termed his government "immoral and unconstitutional". "We hope you will be the chief minister but there is no guarantee of that. You are with the rebels, can you give a stable government? It's impossible! I oppose this confidence motion because the reason is this government is unconstitutional and immoral," Siddaramaiah had said.

JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was not answerable to chief minister B S Yediyurappa as he had run the government in the Karnataka with utmost clarity amongst the people.

JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Monday said he was not answerable to chief minister B S Yediyurappa as he had run the government in the Karnataka with utmost clarity amongst the people. "I ran the government for 14 months. I have no obligation to answer your (BS Yediyurappa) questions. I need to answer to my conscience. From the past 14 months, everything was being recorded. People know what work I have done," Kumaraswamy said at the Vidhan Soudha just before Yediyurappa won trust vote through voice vote today. In a veiled jibe at the BJP leader, Kumaraswamy added that the JD(S) will not try to bring down their numbers in the Assembly and will work with them for the benefit of the people. "We will not try to bring down your numbers from 105 to either 100 or lower. You speak of drought, at least now let's see how you will work. We will cooperate with you for the sake of people," Kumaraswamy said. He also accused BJP of leaving the rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs to their fate and praised the Speaker for the way in which he acted throughout the fall of the coalition government. "You(BJP) have left the dissenting and rebel MLAs on roads. Since last week I have been seeing all the developments. Speaker's decision sends a strong message. He didn't act in a hurry. He looked into the matter very carefully and looked into each case," he added. Earlier, Congress leader Siddaramaiah also attacked Yediyurappa and termed his government "immoral and unconstitutional". "We hope you will be the chief minister but there is no guarantee of that. You are with the rebels, can you give a stable government? It's impossible! I oppose this confidence motion because the reason is this government is unconstitutional and immoral," Siddaramaiah had said.

Not answerable to Yediyurappa, people know what work I have done: Kumaraswamy

Fourteen rebels Congress-JD(S) MLAs in Karnataka Assembly were disqualified on Sunday by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-assembly-speaker-kr-ramesh-kumar-disqualifies-three-congress-mlas-238532">Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar</a>, news agency ANI reported.

Ramesh Kumar made the&nbsp;announcement while addressing the media earlier today.

Kumar disqualified three MLAs&nbsp;under Para 2(1) (a) of the tenth Schedule of the Constitution and under 191(a) of the Constitution of India a few days back. The disqualified lawmakers cease to be members of the Assembly till the expiry of the term that is May 23, 2023, the order by the Speaker said.

The vote of confidence will take place in Karnataka Legislative Assembly on July 29.

''BS Yediyurappa has asked me to oversee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-trust-vote-section-144-to-be-imposed-near-karnataka-assembly-238868">vote of confidence tomorrow</a>. The Finance bill is set to lapse on July 31. I appeal to all MLAs to appear for the session for the confidence motion,'' Kumar said.

Ahead of the vote of confidence, Commissioner of Police Alok Kumar on Saturday issued a prohibitory order to impose Section 144 within a two-kilometre radius of the Vidhana Soudha from 6 am on July 29 to midnight of July 30.

Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell on July 23 after losing the trust vote. Following which, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yediyurappa took oath as the chief minister for the fourth time.

He will have to prove the majority of his government in state Assembly by July 31.

Fourteen rebels Congress-JD(S) MLAs in Karnataka Assembly were disqualified on Sunday by Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar, news agency ANI reported. Ramesh Kumar made the announcement while addressing the media earlier today.

Fourteen rebels Congress-JD(S) MLAs in Karnataka Assembly were disqualified on Sunday by Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar, news agency ANI reported. Ramesh Kumar made the announcement while addressing the media earlier today. Kumar disqualified three MLAs under Para 2(1) (a) of the tenth Schedule of the Constitution and under 191(a) of the Constitution of India a few days back. The disqualified lawmakers cease to be members of the Assembly till the expiry of the term that is May 23, 2023, the order by the Speaker said. The vote of confidence will take place in Karnataka Legislative Assembly on July 29. ''BS Yediyurappa has asked me to oversee vote of confidence tomorrow. The Finance bill is set to lapse on July 31. I appeal to all MLAs to appear for the session for the confidence motion,'' Kumar said. Ahead of the vote of confidence, Commissioner of Police Alok Kumar on Saturday issued a prohibitory order to impose Section 144 within a two-kilometre radius of the Vidhana Soudha from 6 am on July 29 to midnight of July 30. Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area. The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell on July 23 after losing the trust vote. Following which, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yediyurappa took oath as the chief minister for the fourth time. He will have to prove the majority of his government in state Assembly by July 31.

Karnataka: Speaker disqualifies 14 rebel lawmakers a day ahead of trust vote

At least one person is feared dead and at least 11 others, including a child, have been injured in a shooting incident at an outdoor gathering in Brooklyn here on Saturday night, local media reported.

The shooting was reported at 11 pm, close to the intersection of Hegeman and Christopher avenues in Brownsville, according to the New York Daily News.

At least one child is amongst the injured while one person has lost their life.&nbsp;

The exact casualty count is yet to be confirmed by the authorities.

Investigations into the shooting are currently underway.

At least one person is feared dead and at least 11 others, including a child, have been injured in a shooting incident at an outdoor gathering in Brooklyn here on Saturday night, local media reported.

At least one person is feared dead and at least 11 others, including a child, have been injured in a shooting incident at an outdoor gathering in Brooklyn here on Saturday night, local media reported. The shooting was reported at 11 pm, close to the intersection of Hegeman and Christopher avenues in Brownsville, according to the New York Daily News. At least one child is amongst the injured while one person has lost their life. The exact casualty count is yet to be confirmed by the authorities. Investigations into the shooting are currently underway.

New York: At least one dead, 11 injured in Brooklyn shooting

The death toll in a landslide which buried a village in southwest China rose to 36, state broadcaster CCTV said Sunday, with 15 still missing days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../11-dead-42-missing-in-southwestern-china- landslide-238171">disaster struck.</a>

The state-run People's Daily said rescue work is ongoing at the site in Shuicheng county, Guizhou province, where a thick torrent of mud buried 22 houses in the landslide on Tuesday.

CCTV broadcast footage of rescue workers trying to reach survivors through a huge mound of earth, and excavators digging through the collapsed hill.

Two children and a mother with a baby were among those dead.

Official news agency Xinhua said Saturday night that 40 people had been rescued from the site, according to the local emergency rescue command.

Xinhua said a local school had been set up as an emergency medical and rescue centre, with "multiple rescue teams and experts" still searching for those missing.

The government has earmarked 30 million yuan&nbsp;for search and rescue efforts in the province, Xinhua reported, as well as the relocation of victims.

Landslides are a frequent danger in rural and mountainous parts of China, particularly after heavy rain, and the country has suffered severe flooding this year.

In August 2017 at least 30 people were killed in two separate landslides in the same rural province of Guizhou.

The death toll in a landslide which buried a village in southwest China rose to 36, state broadcaster CCTV said Sunday, with 15 still missing days after the disaster struck.

The death toll in a landslide which buried a village in southwest China rose to 36, state broadcaster CCTV said Sunday, with 15 still missing days after the disaster struck. The state-run People's Daily said rescue work is ongoing at the site in Shuicheng county, Guizhou province, where a thick torrent of mud buried 22 houses in the landslide on Tuesday. CCTV broadcast footage of rescue workers trying to reach survivors through a huge mound of earth, and excavators digging through the collapsed hill. Two children and a mother with a baby were among those dead. Official news agency Xinhua said Saturday night that 40 people had been rescued from the site, according to the local emergency rescue command. Xinhua said a local school had been set up as an emergency medical and rescue centre, with "multiple rescue teams and experts" still searching for those missing. The government has earmarked 30 million yuan for search and rescue efforts in the province, Xinhua reported, as well as the relocation of victims. Landslides are a frequent danger in rural and mountainous parts of China, particularly after heavy rain, and the country has suffered severe flooding this year. In August 2017 at least 30 people were killed in two separate landslides in the same rural province of Guizhou.

China landslide death toll rises to 36 with 15 still missing

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess."

Trump's outburst came in a series of sharply worded tweets aimed at Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings -- a high-profile critic of Trump's administration whose district covers much of Baltimore.

"Cumming (sic) District is a disgusting, rat and rodent-infested mess," the president wrote, calling it "the worst run and most dangerous anywhere in the United States."

"No human being would want to live there," he said -&nbsp;in an attack ostensibly provoked by Cummings' criticism of the harsh conditions facing would-be asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border.

The morning diatribe ignited a storm of criticism, less than two weeks after the House of Representatives condemned Trump for "racist" comments targeting four first-term Democratic congresswomen who are ethnic minorities.

The top Democrat in Congress, Nancy Pelosi, accused Trump of a "racist" attack on a "champion... of civil rights and economic justice, a beloved leader in Baltimore, and deeply valued colleague."&nbsp;

"We all reject racist attacks against him," wrote Pelosi -- who was born in Baltimore and whose father served as mayor of the city.&nbsp;

Former vice president Joe Biden -- the Democratic frontrunner to challenge Trump in 2020 -- called out the president directly on Twitter.

"It is despicable for you to attack him and the people of Baltimore this way," Biden wrote. "Once again you have proved yourself unfit to hold the office. A President is supposed to lift this nation up. Not tear it down."

There was similar condemnation from half a dozen White House candidates including Cory Booker, who tweeted footage of a black CNN anchor and Baltimore native who broke down on air while reacting to the attack on his hometown.

"This is painful. This is a moral, defining moment in America," wrote Booker. "Silence is toxic complicity."

Democratic 2020 contender Kamala Harris, who like Booker is black, said she was "proud" to have her campaign headquarters in Cummings' district and called Trump's attack "disgraceful."

The city's Democratic Mayor Bernard "Jack" Young&nbsp; -- also black -- rejected Trump's rhetoric, calling it "hurtful and dangerous."

"It was a total insult," he told reporters. "We're not going to ignore anyone degrading Baltimore city and its effective leadership, no one."

The editorial board of the city's newspaper, The Baltimore Sun, took a direct swipe at Trump in a scathing column which concluded that it is "better to have a few rats than to be one."

A historic port city of 600,000 people, Baltimore presents a mixed picture, with both handsome and affluent neighbourhoods and poverty-stricken districts. It has one of the country's highest murder rates.&nbsp;

Cummings' district is more than 50 per cent black -- and the city of Baltimore as a whole, more than 60 per cent.

Cummings himself tweeted: "Mr President, I go home to my district daily. Each morning, I wake up, and I go and fight for my neighbours. It is my constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. But it is my moral duty to fight for my constituents."

As chairman of the House Oversight Committee, Cummings -- one of the most prominent African Americans in Congress -- has launched investigations into Trump administration policies, including reports of poor treatment at migrant detention centres.

"Rep. Elijah Cummings has been a brutal bully, shouting and screaming at the great men &amp; women of Border Patrol about conditions at the Southern Border, when actually his Baltimore district is FAR WORSE and more dangerous," Trump charged.

He attacked Cummings again Saturday evening after spending the day at Trump National Golf Club outside Washington.

"Elijah Cummings spends all of his time trying to hurt innocent people through 'Oversight.' He does NOTHING for his very poor, very dangerous and very badly run district!," the president tweeted, adding the hashtag #BlacksForTrump2020.

The broadside was reminiscent of Trump's recent, racially charged onslaught against four young Democratic women lawmakers, who he said should "go back" to the "crime infested" places they came from. In fact, three were born in the US and all are American citizens.

Trump denies accusations of racism -- and has made a point of pushing for the release of US rapper A$AP Rocky, held in Sweden on assault charges, in an apparent effort to curb his unpopularity with black voters.

But his calculated targeting of the "Squad" -- as the four are known -- was widely seen as a bid to galvanize his mostly white electoral base as he gears up for next year's re-election battle.

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess.

US President Donald Trump was hit with new accusations of racism Saturday after he attacked a prominent African-American lawmaker and branded the majority-black city of Baltimore an "infested mess." Trump's outburst came in a series of sharply worded tweets aimed at Democratic Representative Elijah Cummings -- a high-profile critic of Trump's administration whose district covers much of Baltimore. "Cumming (sic) District is a disgusting, rat and rodent-infested mess," the president wrote, calling it "the worst run and most dangerous anywhere in the United States." "No human being would want to live there," he said - in an attack ostensibly provoked by Cummings' criticism of the harsh conditions facing would-be asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border. The morning diatribe ignited a storm of criticism, less than two weeks after the House of Representatives condemned Trump for "racist" comments targeting four first-term Democratic congresswomen who are ethnic minorities. The top Democrat in Congress, Nancy Pelosi, accused Trump of a "racist" attack on a "champion... of civil rights and economic justice, a beloved leader in Baltimore, and deeply valued colleague." "We all reject racist attacks against him," wrote Pelosi -- who was born in Baltimore and whose father served as mayor of the city. Former vice president Joe Biden -- the Democratic frontrunner to challenge Trump in 2020 -- called out the president directly on Twitter. "It is despicable for you to attack him and the people of Baltimore this way," Biden wrote. "Once again you have proved yourself unfit to hold the office. A President is supposed to lift this nation up. Not tear it down." There was similar condemnation from half a dozen White House candidates including Cory Booker, who tweeted footage of a black CNN anchor and Baltimore native who broke down on air while reacting to the attack on his hometown. "This is painful. This is a moral, defining moment in America," wrote Booker. "Silence is toxic complicity." Democratic 2020 contender Kamala Harris, who like Booker is black, said she was "proud" to have her campaign headquarters in Cummings' district and called Trump's attack "disgraceful." The city's Democratic Mayor Bernard "Jack" Young -- also black -- rejected Trump's rhetoric, calling it "hurtful and dangerous." "It was a total insult," he told reporters. "We're not going to ignore anyone degrading Baltimore city and its effective leadership, no one." The editorial board of the city's newspaper, The Baltimore Sun, took a direct swipe at Trump in a scathing column which concluded that it is "better to have a few rats than to be one." A historic port city of 600,000 people, Baltimore presents a mixed picture, with both handsome and affluent neighbourhoods and poverty-stricken districts. It has one of the country's highest murder rates. Cummings' district is more than 50 per cent black -- and the city of Baltimore as a whole, more than 60 per cent. Cummings himself tweeted: "Mr President, I go home to my district daily. Each morning, I wake up, and I go and fight for my neighbours. It is my constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. But it is my moral duty to fight for my constituents." As chairman of the House Oversight Committee, Cummings -- one of the most prominent African Americans in Congress -- has launched investigations into Trump administration policies, including reports of poor treatment at migrant detention centres. "Rep. Elijah Cummings has been a brutal bully, shouting and screaming at the great men & women of Border Patrol about conditions at the Southern Border, when actually his Baltimore district is FAR WORSE and more dangerous," Trump charged. He attacked Cummings again Saturday evening after spending the day at Trump National Golf Club outside Washington. "Elijah Cummings spends all of his time trying to hurt innocent people through 'Oversight.' He does NOTHING for his very poor, very dangerous and very badly run district!," the president tweeted, adding the hashtag #BlacksForTrump2020. The broadside was reminiscent of Trump's recent, racially charged onslaught against four young Democratic women lawmakers, who he said should "go back" to the "crime infested" places they came from. In fact, three were born in the US and all are American citizens. Trump denies accusations of racism -- and has made a point of pushing for the release of US rapper A$AP Rocky, held in Sweden on assault charges, in an apparent effort to curb his unpopularity with black voters. But his calculated targeting of the "Squad" -- as the four are known -- was widely seen as a bid to galvanize his mostly white electoral base as he gears up for next year's re-election battle.

Outrage as Trump brands mostly-black Baltimore 'infested mess'

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that places over Konkan, Goa and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Sunday.

The weather forecasting agency also predicted heavy downpour over Madhya Maharashtra and East Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and West&nbsp;Rajasthan later in the day.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and West Rajasthan and heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Telangana,&nbsp; 
Marathawada, Saurashtra and Kutch, Vidarbha, Odisha, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal," the IMD said.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand.

Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over west-central and adjoining southwest Arabian Sea, North Arabian Sea and west-central Bay of Bengal.

Rough to very rough sea conditions are very likely to prevail along and off Gujarat-Maharashtra coasts.

The organisation has also advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that places over Konkan, Goa and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Sunday. The weather forecasting agency also predicted heavy downpour over Madhya Maharashtra and East Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and West Rajasthan later in the day.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that places over Konkan, Goa and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Sunday. The weather forecasting agency also predicted heavy downpour over Madhya Maharashtra and East Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and West Rajasthan later in the day. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and West Rajasthan and heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Telangana, Marathawada, Saurashtra and Kutch, Vidarbha, Odisha, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal," the IMD said. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand. Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over west-central and adjoining southwest Arabian Sea, North Arabian Sea and west-central Bay of Bengal. Rough to very rough sea conditions are very likely to prevail along and off Gujarat-Maharashtra coasts. The organisation has also advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

India Meteorological Department predicts heavy rainfall in Konkan, Goa

Union Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "India will never compromise its data sovereignty" and added that the government will make efforts to make the country one of world's largest centre of data analysis.

"I am keen that India must become a big centre of data, data analysis, data refinery, data innovation, safety and security. Our data protection law is work-in-progress, we will make a robust data protection law," he said at the curtain raiser event of the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2019 on Saturday.

He also touched upon the subject of 5G ecosystem and said his vision of India includes the creation of Indian patents in fifth-generation (5G) technology.

The Union Minister invited leading brands, innovators, academia and the policymakers to participate in IMC 2019 which will be held between October 14-16, this year.

Union Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "India will never compromise its data sovereignty" and added that the government will make efforts to make the country one of world's largest centre of data analysis.

Union Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "India will never compromise its data sovereignty" and added that the government will make efforts to make the country one of world's largest centre of data analysis. "I am keen that India must become a big centre of data, data analysis, data refinery, data innovation, safety and security. Our data protection law is work-in-progress, we will make a robust data protection law," he said at the curtain raiser event of the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) 2019 on Saturday. He also touched upon the subject of 5G ecosystem and said his vision of India includes the creation of Indian patents in fifth-generation (5G) technology. The Union Minister invited leading brands, innovators, academia and the policymakers to participate in IMC 2019 which will be held between October 14-16, this year.

India will never compromise its data sovereignty: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader S Jaipal Reddy passed away in the early hours here on Sunday.

He was ailing and breathed his last at 1:30 am in Asian Institute of Gastroenterology in Hyderabad.

The Congress veteran is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.

"We are saddened to hear of the passing of former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy. A senior Congress leader, he served as a Lok Sabha MP five times, a Rajya Sabha MP twice and as an MLA four times. We hope his family and friends find strength in their time of grief," tweeted the Congress party from its official Twitter account.

Born in 1942, Reddy's journey into the political discourse started when he was elected as the president of the Andhra Pradesh Youth Congress.

He went on to become a Congress legislator for four consecutive terms in the 1970s and held key portfolios in various governments, thereafter.

In 1979, he joined Janata Dal and returned to the Congress party after 20 years in 1999 and held ministerial berths.

He was also conferred with the best parliamentarian award in 1998.

Reddy got elected to Lok Sabha for five terms in 1984, 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2009.

He served as a Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting in the IK Gujral cabinet in 1998.

In 2004, Reddy was re-elected to 14th Lok Sabha from Miryalguda Constituency and served as the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Union Minister for Urban Development.

In 2009, he was re-elected to the 15th Lok Sabha from the Chevella constituency and served as a Union Minister for Urban Development and Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas.

He was given the portfolio of Union Minister for the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Ministry of Science and Technology from 2012 to 2014.

Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader S Jaipal Reddy passed away in the early hours here on Sunday. He was ailing and breathed his last at 1:30 am in Asian Institute of Gastroenterology in Hyderabad.

Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader S Jaipal Reddy passed away in the early hours here on Sunday. He was ailing and breathed his last at 1:30 am in Asian Institute of Gastroenterology in Hyderabad. The Congress veteran is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter. "We are saddened to hear of the passing of former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy. A senior Congress leader, he served as a Lok Sabha MP five times, a Rajya Sabha MP twice and as an MLA four times. We hope his family and friends find strength in their time of grief," tweeted the Congress party from its official Twitter account. Born in 1942, Reddy's journey into the political discourse started when he was elected as the president of the Andhra Pradesh Youth Congress. He went on to become a Congress legislator for four consecutive terms in the 1970s and held key portfolios in various governments, thereafter. In 1979, he joined Janata Dal and returned to the Congress party after 20 years in 1999 and held ministerial berths. He was also conferred with the best parliamentarian award in 1998. Reddy got elected to Lok Sabha for five terms in 1984, 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2009. He served as a Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting in the IK Gujral cabinet in 1998. In 2004, Reddy was re-elected to 14th Lok Sabha from Miryalguda Constituency and served as the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Union Minister for Urban Development. In 2009, he was re-elected to the 15th Lok Sabha from the Chevella constituency and served as a Union Minister for Urban Development and Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. He was given the portfolio of Union Minister for the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Ministry of Science and Technology from 2012 to 2014.

Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy passes away

A top-level Myanmar government delegation began repatriation talks with Rohingya leaders in a Bangladesh refugee camp on Saturday, an official said, with many of the Muslim minority fearing for their safety if they return home.

Some 740,000 Rohingya fled a 2017 crackdown by Myanmar's military and are living in squalid conditions in camps in Bangladesh's southeastern border district of Cox's Bazar.

The two countries signed a repatriation deal in November 2017 but so far virtually no Rohingya have volunteered to go back to Myanmar, where the group has faced decades of repression.

The Myanmar team, led by permanent foreign secretary U Myint Thu, arrived in Cox's Bazar on Saturday amid tightened security in the camps.

The delegation visited Kutupalong -- the world's largest refugee settlement -- where they discussed repatriation with Rohingya community leaders over several hours, said Bangladesh refugee commissioner Mohammad Abul Kalam.

"Both parties seemed positive about it and the discussion will continue tomorrow (Sunday)," he told AFP.

One of the Rohingya leaders who joined the talks, Dil Mohammad, said they "went well" as he reiterated demands for Myanmar to recognise Rohingya as an ethnic group.

"We hope this discussion will be fruitful. We told them that we won't return unless we are recognised as Rohingya in Myanmar," he said.

Myanmar denies the minority citizenship and refers to them as "Bengalis" -- inferring that the Rohingya are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.&nbsp;

It is the second time in less than a year that Myanmar officials were trying to convince Rohingya refugees to return to their homeland in violence-wracked Rakhine state, after a repatriation offer was rejected by Rohingya leaders in October.

The massive camps have sparked tensions between the neighbouring nations with Bangladesh blaming Myanmar for delays in repatriating the refugees.

Dhaka has said it will not force any Rohingya to leave, while Myanmar has faced international pressure to allow the Rohingya to return to Rakhine and grant them citizenship rights.

The UN has complained that progress to address the refugee crisis has been far too slow.

The new visit comes in the wake of talks between Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

China is a key ally of Myanmar, and Hasina said then that Beijing would "do whatever is required" to help resolve the Rohingya crisis.

A top-level Myanmar government delegation began repatriation talks with Rohingya leaders in a Bangladesh refugee camp on Saturday, an official said, with many of the Muslim minority fearing for their safety if they return home.

A top-level Myanmar government delegation began repatriation talks with Rohingya leaders in a Bangladesh refugee camp on Saturday, an official said, with many of the Muslim minority fearing for their safety if they return home. Some 740,000 Rohingya fled a 2017 crackdown by Myanmar's military and are living in squalid conditions in camps in Bangladesh's southeastern border district of Cox's Bazar. The two countries signed a repatriation deal in November 2017 but so far virtually no Rohingya have volunteered to go back to Myanmar, where the group has faced decades of repression. The Myanmar team, led by permanent foreign secretary U Myint Thu, arrived in Cox's Bazar on Saturday amid tightened security in the camps. The delegation visited Kutupalong -- the world's largest refugee settlement -- where they discussed repatriation with Rohingya community leaders over several hours, said Bangladesh refugee commissioner Mohammad Abul Kalam. "Both parties seemed positive about it and the discussion will continue tomorrow (Sunday)," he told AFP. One of the Rohingya leaders who joined the talks, Dil Mohammad, said they "went well" as he reiterated demands for Myanmar to recognise Rohingya as an ethnic group. "We hope this discussion will be fruitful. We told them that we won't return unless we are recognised as Rohingya in Myanmar," he said. Myanmar denies the minority citizenship and refers to them as "Bengalis" -- inferring that the Rohingya are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. It is the second time in less than a year that Myanmar officials were trying to convince Rohingya refugees to return to their homeland in violence-wracked Rakhine state, after a repatriation offer was rejected by Rohingya leaders in October. The massive camps have sparked tensions between the neighbouring nations with Bangladesh blaming Myanmar for delays in repatriating the refugees. Dhaka has said it will not force any Rohingya to leave, while Myanmar has faced international pressure to allow the Rohingya to return to Rakhine and grant them citizenship rights. The UN has complained that progress to address the refugee crisis has been far too slow. The new visit comes in the wake of talks between Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. China is a key ally of Myanmar, and Hasina said then that Beijing would "do whatever is required" to help resolve the Rohingya crisis.

Myanmar delegation holds repatriation talks with Rohingya in Bangladesh

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