The mysterious death of a journalist has become a watershed moment for Nepal's media fraternity. Journalists from various media organizations in this Himalayan republic are coming together to demand justice.

Balaram Baniya, the assistant editor was working for one of the most widely read newspapers in Nepal The Kantipur Daily. He was just 50 years old and is said to have possessed a deep understanding of Nepal's bureaucracy, governance and the political system and was a person who never capitulated to any pressure.

On Monday, Balaram Baniya had gone missing. He went out of contact with his family and office even as initial reports said that he was swept away in a river after falling from a bridge. His body was found on Tuesday but the identity could not be ascertained immediately.

His face was badly damaged, it was only on Wednesday that the local police confirmed that the body they had discovered was of Balaram Baniya.

The news of his sudden demise took the entire media fraternity in Nepal by surprise as condolences began pouring from all sides and they soon gave way to suspicions and questons.

There are suspicions on the nature of his death and questions on the alleged reasons behind it because Balaram Baniya was famous for being the most vocal critic of the Chinese regime's influence in Nepal and off-late he was publishing a lot of anti-China commentary.

In a front-page story on June 10, he wrote about extensive Chinese encroachment in Nepalese territories. The report created a huge controversy as the Chinese did not take it nicely.

They forced the Nepal government to issue a press release condemning the report and asked Balaram Baniya to retract from his claims. The news of his death is spreading like wildfire in Nepal and his reports on China are back in focus. His colleagues and followers are hinting at foulplay behind his demise.&nbsp;

The head of the Nepal press council Kishore Shreshta is at the receiving end of much criticism. He is being accused of not waiting for a police investigation and deliberately declaring Balaram Baniya's death as suicide induced by alcohol.

A number of press unions and journalists organisations are pressing for a fair probe which includes the Nepal press union, the federation of Nepali journalists, the freedom forum and several others.

All of them together are asking the Oli government to make public the "truth behind the mysterious death of&nbsp;Balaram Baniya'. They say his death could be linked to the daring news stories that he filed against China and their doubts are not unfounded because China has a history of intimidating and threatening the Nepalese media.

In February, the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu had gone public with a direct attack against the Kathmandu post. It had criticised the newspaper for smearing the efforts of the Chinese regime in containing the Wuhan virus. The tone of the sharply-worded statement was remarkable.

"The Kathmandu Post with a picture of malicious intention has deliberately smeared the efforts of the Chinese government.....the chief editor has become a parrot of some anti-China forces.... the Chinese embassy reserves the right for further action.....'

"the right to further action", it is how the Chinese embassy dictates terms to the Nepalese media. Now a journalist has died and there's talk of a Chinese hand behind his death but given the behaviour of the Oli government and his growing closeness to China, Balaram Baniya's death may remain a mystery.

The mysterious death of a journalist has become a watershed moment for Nepal's media fraternity. Journalists from various media organizations in this Himalayan republic are coming together to demand justice.

The mysterious death of a journalist has become a watershed moment for Nepal's media fraternity. Journalists from various media organizations in this Himalayan republic are coming together to demand justice. Balaram Baniya, the assistant editor was working for one of the most widely read newspapers in Nepal The Kantipur Daily. He was just 50 years old and is said to have possessed a deep understanding of Nepal's bureaucracy, governance and the political system and was a person who never capitulated to any pressure. On Monday, Balaram Baniya had gone missing. He went out of contact with his family and office even as initial reports said that he was swept away in a river after falling from a bridge. His body was found on Tuesday but the identity could not be ascertained immediately. His face was badly damaged, it was only on Wednesday that the local police confirmed that the body they had discovered was of Balaram Baniya. The news of his sudden demise took the entire media fraternity in Nepal by surprise as condolences began pouring from all sides and they soon gave way to suspicions and questons. There are suspicions on the nature of his death and questions on the alleged reasons behind it because Balaram Baniya was famous for being the most vocal critic of the Chinese regime's influence in Nepal and off-late he was publishing a lot of anti-China commentary. In a front-page story on June 10, he wrote about extensive Chinese encroachment in Nepalese territories. The report created a huge controversy as the Chinese did not take it nicely. They forced the Nepal government to issue a press release condemning the report and asked Balaram Baniya to retract from his claims. The news of his death is spreading like wildfire in Nepal and his reports on China are back in focus. His colleagues and followers are hinting at foulplay behind his demise. The head of the Nepal press council Kishore Shreshta is at the receiving end of much criticism. He is being accused of not waiting for a police investigation and deliberately declaring Balaram Baniya's death as suicide induced by alcohol. A number of press unions and journalists organisations are pressing for a fair probe which includes the Nepal press union, the federation of Nepali journalists, the freedom forum and several others. All of them together are asking the Oli government to make public the "truth behind the mysterious death of Balaram Baniya'. They say his death could be linked to the daring news stories that he filed against China and their doubts are not unfounded because China has a history of intimidating and threatening the Nepalese media. In February, the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu had gone public with a direct attack against the Kathmandu post. It had criticised the newspaper for smearing the efforts of the Chinese regime in containing the Wuhan virus. The tone of the sharply-worded statement was remarkable. "The Kathmandu Post with a picture of malicious intention has deliberately smeared the efforts of the Chinese government.....the chief editor has become a parrot of some anti-China forces.... the Chinese embassy reserves the right for further action.....' "the right to further action", it is how the Chinese embassy dictates terms to the Nepalese media. Now a journalist has died and there's talk of a Chinese hand behind his death but given the behaviour of the Oli government and his growing closeness to China, Balaram Baniya's death may remain a mystery.

Chinese critic journalist Balaram Baniya's death surprises Nepal

In his address to the nation on the eve of 74th Independence Day, India's President Ram Nath Kovind said that the historic day will not be the same as every previous year for obvious reasons due to the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-itbp-troops-responded-fiercely-to-chinas-army-at-galwan-recommended-for-gallantry-medals-320496">Also Read:&nbsp;ITBP troops responded fiercely to China's army at Galwan; recommended for gallantry medals</a>

"The nation is indebted to all health professionals fighting this pandemic, unfortunately, many have lost their lives in the course of doing their duty," the president said.

President Kovind also lauded the efforts of essential service providers for displaying a "selfless attitude."

"This pandemic has affected the poor and underprivileged the most, several efforts have been made by the government to provide them employment to help them as much as possible," the president asserted while adding, "we have helped other nations against their fight with COVID-19 and have established that India is always standing with its friends during tough times."

"India has always followed the principle of not just living for oneself but also for others," he said.

"Our brave soldiers have lost lives protecting and safeguarding the Indian borders, the nation salutes the bravehearts of Galwan Valley," he said. The President said the nation has "utmost pride on our defence forces."

"In the year 2020, we have learnt a lot of lessons. The myth has been broken that nature is controlled by human beings, the pandemic made us understand that the world community has its fate interrelated.

The Indian president also noted that cyclone Amphan which brought destruction to Bengal and Assam during the pandemic.

"The 21st century should be remembered when humanity worked together to help each other in defying all borders," he stated.

The president stressed on improving medical facilities while reaffirming his faith in India's youth.

"Our sons and daughters must be worried about educational institutions being shut. I assure them that we will get ahead of this."

"Indians have displayed patience on the Ram Janambhoomi case. It was resolved with due judicial process. I congratulate our citizens for it," he said.

"I pray for the world's welfare and wish you all on the 74th Independence Day," the president said.

In his address to the nation on the eve of 74th Independence Day, India's President Ram Nath Kovind said that the historic day will not be the same as every previous year for obvious reasons due to the pandemic.

In his address to the nation on the eve of 74th Independence Day, India's President Ram Nath Kovind said that the historic day will not be the same as every previous year for obvious reasons due to the pandemic. Also Read: ITBP troops responded fiercely to China's army at Galwan; recommended for gallantry medals "The nation is indebted to all health professionals fighting this pandemic, unfortunately, many have lost their lives in the course of doing their duty," the president said. President Kovind also lauded the efforts of essential service providers for displaying a "selfless attitude." "This pandemic has affected the poor and underprivileged the most, several efforts have been made by the government to provide them employment to help them as much as possible," the president asserted while adding, "we have helped other nations against their fight with COVID-19 and have established that India is always standing with its friends during tough times." "India has always followed the principle of not just living for oneself but also for others," he said. "Our brave soldiers have lost lives protecting and safeguarding the Indian borders, the nation salutes the bravehearts of Galwan Valley," he said. The President said the nation has "utmost pride on our defence forces." "In the year 2020, we have learnt a lot of lessons. The myth has been broken that nature is controlled by human beings, the pandemic made us understand that the world community has its fate interrelated. The Indian president also noted that cyclone Amphan which brought destruction to Bengal and Assam during the pandemic. "The 21st century should be remembered when humanity worked together to help each other in defying all borders," he stated. The president stressed on improving medical facilities while reaffirming his faith in India's youth. "Our sons and daughters must be worried about educational institutions being shut. I assure them that we will get ahead of this." "Indians have displayed patience on the Ram Janambhoomi case. It was resolved with due judicial process. I congratulate our citizens for it," he said. "I pray for the world's welfare and wish you all on the 74th Independence Day," the president said.

Nation indebted to all health professionals, salute bravehearts of Galwan Valley, says President Kovind in address to nation on eve of Independence Day

Independence Day in COVID-19 times: Invites only, no school children & 6 feet distance

Turkey said today that is mulling closing its embassy in Abu Dhabi after US President Donald Trump announced the historic Israel-UAE peace deal on Thursday.

Watch:&nbsp;

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President Erdogan said that his government is contemplating withdrawing its ambassador and suspending diplomatic ties with UAE over the peace deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hails-uae-deal-but-palestinians-and-settlers-dismayed-320395">Also Read:&nbsp;Israel hails UAE deal but Palestinians, and settlers, dismayed</a>

Iran had earlier condemned the agreement calling it an act of "strategic stupidity".&nbsp;

Turkey's foreign ministry had earlier said: "History and the conscience of the region's peoples will not forget and never forgive this hypocritical behaviour of the UAE, betraying the Palestinian cause for the sake of its narrow interests."

"It is extremely worrying that the UAE should, with a unilateral action, try and do away with the (2002) Arab Peace Plan developed by the Arab League. It is not in the slightest credible that this three-way declaration should be presented as supporting the Palestinian cause," it said.

Turkey said today that is mulling closing its embassy in Abu Dhabi after US President Donald Trump announced the historic Israel-UAE peace deal on Thursday. Watch: President Erdogan said that his government is contemplating withdrawing its ambassador and suspending diplomatic ties with UAE over the peace deal.

Turkey said today that is mulling closing its embassy in Abu Dhabi after US President Donald Trump announced the historic Israel-UAE peace deal on Thursday. Watch: President Erdogan said that his government is contemplating withdrawing its ambassador and suspending diplomatic ties with UAE over the peace deal. Also Read: Israel hails UAE deal but Palestinians, and settlers, dismayed Iran had earlier condemned the agreement calling it an act of "strategic stupidity". Turkey's foreign ministry had earlier said: "History and the conscience of the region's peoples will not forget and never forgive this hypocritical behaviour of the UAE, betraying the Palestinian cause for the sake of its narrow interests." "It is extremely worrying that the UAE should, with a unilateral action, try and do away with the (2002) Arab Peace Plan developed by the Arab League. It is not in the slightest credible that this three-way declaration should be presented as supporting the Palestinian cause," it said.

Israel-UAE peace deal: Turkey mulling closing embassy in Abu Dhabi, says Erdogan

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has recommended 21 names of its men for gallantry medals who faced the Chinese during faceoffs and skirmishes in May-June, 2020.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-security-officials-seek-four-to-six-dedicated-satellites-along-lac-to-keep-an-eye-on-china-report-318634">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian security officials seek four to six dedicated satellites along LAC to keep an eye on China</a>

Also, 294 ITBP personnel have been awarded the DGs commendation rolls and insignias for by Sh SS Deswal, DG ITBP on the eve of Independence Day, 2020. Another six personnel have been awarded for their courage in anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh.

The ITBP troops not only effectively used shields to protect themselves but also responded fiercely to PLA's advancing troops and brought the situation under control. With the highest order of professional skills, ITBP troops fought shoulder to shoulder and also brought the injured Indian Army troops to the rear.

Even when the ITBP troops fought whole night, they received minimum casualties by giving a befitting reply to the stone-pelters of the PLA. At places they gave determined stand-off about 17 to 20 hours throughout the intervening nights.

Due to the high altitude training and manoeuvre experience of the force in the Himalayas deployments, the ITBP troops kept the PLA troops at bay and due to the all-out and befitting response of ITBP soldiers at almost all fronts many areas were safeguarded in the hypersensitive areas.

The force also recommended the names of 318 ITBP personnel and 40 other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel for award of Union Home Minister Special Operation Medals for their dedicated services in fight against the COVID-19.

The ITBP has been in the forefront of the coronavirus battle since January when it had established the biggest quarantine facility in Chhawla camp for Wuhan and Italy evacuees.

Besides dedicating its hospitals for COVID-19 patients of the CAPFs/CPOs, it is also looking after the world’s biggest 10,000 bed capacity Sardar Patel COVID-19 Care Centre and hospital at Radha Soami Beas, Chhatarpur, New Delhi since July.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has recommended 21 names of its men for gallantry medals who faced the Chinese during faceoffs and skirmishes in May-June, 2020.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has recommended 21 names of its men for gallantry medals who faced the Chinese during faceoffs and skirmishes in May-June, 2020. Also Read: Indian security officials seek four to six dedicated satellites along LAC to keep an eye on China Also, 294 ITBP personnel have been awarded the DGs commendation rolls and insignias for by Sh SS Deswal, DG ITBP on the eve of Independence Day, 2020. Another six personnel have been awarded for their courage in anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh. The ITBP troops not only effectively used shields to protect themselves but also responded fiercely to PLA's advancing troops and brought the situation under control. With the highest order of professional skills, ITBP troops fought shoulder to shoulder and also brought the injured Indian Army troops to the rear. Even when the ITBP troops fought whole night, they received minimum casualties by giving a befitting reply to the stone-pelters of the PLA. At places they gave determined stand-off about 17 to 20 hours throughout the intervening nights. Due to the high altitude training and manoeuvre experience of the force in the Himalayas deployments, the ITBP troops kept the PLA troops at bay and due to the all-out and befitting response of ITBP soldiers at almost all fronts many areas were safeguarded in the hypersensitive areas. The force also recommended the names of 318 ITBP personnel and 40 other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel for award of Union Home Minister Special Operation Medals for their dedicated services in fight against the COVID-19. The ITBP has been in the forefront of the coronavirus battle since January when it had established the biggest quarantine facility in Chhawla camp for Wuhan and Italy evacuees. Besides dedicating its hospitals for COVID-19 patients of the CAPFs/CPOs, it is also looking after the world’s biggest 10,000 bed capacity Sardar Patel COVID-19 Care Centre and hospital at Radha Soami Beas, Chhatarpur, New Delhi since July.

India-China standoff: ITBP troops responded fiercely to China's army at Galwan; recommended for gallantry medals

A fight between two countries is generating political high waves in the Mediterranean.

Greece and Turkey are involved in a political tsunami. They are united by NATO and separated by the Mediterranean Sea. Both nations are fighting over hydrocarbon resources.

Hydrocarbons are principal constituents of petroleum and natural gas. They are also used in the production of plastic, fibres, rubbers, solvents, explosives and industrial chemicals.

Both Turkey and Greece claim hydrocarbon resources in the gas-rich eastern Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey have conflicting views on how far their continental shelves extend.

Last week Greece and Egypt signed an agreement to set up an exclusive economic zone in the disputed waters. Turkey called the agreement null and void. Soon Turkey dispatched its seismic survey vessel Oruc Reis which was accompanied by naval warships.

The Orus Reis is exploring an area close to Greek island Kastell-Orizo. Greece has responded by deploying warships. On August 12, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis dialled French President Macron. France sent a warship and two Rafale jets to the eastern Mediterranean.

Greece also called for an emergency EU meeting which will take place on Friday. The foreign minister of Greece, Nikos Dendias met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as the US urged both sides to talk.

"The path to a solution in the eastern Mediterranean is via dialogue and negotiation. We are not chasing any unnecessary adventures or seeking tensions," President Tayyip Erdogan said.

A fight between two countries is generating political high waves in the Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey are involved in a political tsunami. They are united by NATO and separated by the Mediterranean Sea.

A fight between two countries is generating political high waves in the Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey are involved in a political tsunami. They are united by NATO and separated by the Mediterranean Sea. Both nations are fighting over hydrocarbon resources. Hydrocarbons are principal constituents of petroleum and natural gas. They are also used in the production of plastic, fibres, rubbers, solvents, explosives and industrial chemicals. Both Turkey and Greece claim hydrocarbon resources in the gas-rich eastern Mediterranean. Greece and Turkey have conflicting views on how far their continental shelves extend. Last week Greece and Egypt signed an agreement to set up an exclusive economic zone in the disputed waters. Turkey called the agreement null and void. Soon Turkey dispatched its seismic survey vessel Oruc Reis which was accompanied by naval warships. The Orus Reis is exploring an area close to Greek island Kastell-Orizo. Greece has responded by deploying warships. On August 12, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis dialled French President Macron. France sent a warship and two Rafale jets to the eastern Mediterranean. Greece also called for an emergency EU meeting which will take place on Friday. The foreign minister of Greece, Nikos Dendias met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as the US urged both sides to talk. "The path to a solution in the eastern Mediterranean is via dialogue and negotiation. We are not chasing any unnecessary adventures or seeking tensions," President Tayyip Erdogan said.

Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea

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US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;on Wednesday said he warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that there would be "an enormous price to pay" if Moscow is offering bounties to kill US&nbsp;soldiers or other Western troops in Afghanistan. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-russians-offer-money-to-kill-americans-there-will-be-enormous-price-to-pay-pompeo-320235">Read more</a>

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Digital Economy Minister Buddhipongse Punnakanta ordered authorities to identify “inappropriate” material and singled out 114 posts mostly made to Facebook but also Twitter and YouTube that may be in breach of the Computer Crimes Act. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-government-threatens-legal-action-against-facebook-over-posts-criticising-monarchy-320249">Read more</a>

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Hong Kong can 'never succeed' under China's control: Trump US President Donald Trump said Thursday that Hong Kong's global financial center will "go to hell" under tightened Chinese rule. Read more Taiwan's fight against mainland is like a worm shaking a tree: China Amid tensions with Taiwan, China's foreign ministry said today that despite Taiwan increasing its military budget next year its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree." Read more France, Greece conduct naval exercise off Crete amid tensions with Turkey France on Thursday conducted military exercise with Greece off Crete even as it said that it was "temporarily reinforcing" military presence in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Read more If Russians offer money to kill Americans, there will be price to pay: Pompeo US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday said he warned his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that there would be "an enormous price to pay" if Moscow is offering bounties to kill US soldiers or other Western troops in Afghanistan. Read more Thai govt threatens legal action against Facebook over posts criticising king Digital Economy Minister Buddhipongse Punnakanta ordered authorities to identify “inappropriate” material and singled out 114 posts mostly made to Facebook but also Twitter and YouTube that may be in breach of the Computer Crimes Act. Read more 2019 was among warmest years on record, Arctic temperatures also increased: Report According to the state of climate report, last year was one of the warmest years on record with "all major greenhouse gases released into Earth’s atmosphere reaching new record high concentrations in 2019." Read more Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai says Hong Kong needs patient campaign Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Thursday he was overwhelmed by the support he got after becoming the most high-profile person to be arrested under a new national security law and urged patience in a "long-term fight" for democracy. Read more Israel thwarts cyber attack from North Korean cyber group on defence industry Israel said on Wednesday it thwarted a cyber attack on its defence industry by a hacking group known as Lazarus, which the United States says is run by North Korean intelligence. Read more Phase 3 trials of Russian COVID-19 vaccine to start in Philippines in October The Philippines plans to launch clinical trials for a Russian coronavirus vaccine in October, with President Rodrigo Duterte expected to be inoculated as early as May next year, the presidential spokesman said on Thursday. Read more Taiwan announces increase in military spending Taiwan announced on Thursday a T$42.1 billion ($1.4 billion) increase in the budget for defence next year as China shared details of its latest combat exercise near the island. Read more

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US President Donald Trump today announced a "historic peace agreement" between Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

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HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1293922936609546240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After making the surprise announcement, Trump told reporters that diplomatic breakthroughs between Israel and its Muslim neighbors in the region were also expected.

The White House said President Trump, PM Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and deputy supreme commander of UAE spoke today and agreed to the "full normalization of relations between Israel and UAE."

The "historic diplomatic breakthrough will advance peace in the Middle East region," it said, adding,"it is a testament to the bold diplomacy and vision of the three leaders and the courage of the UAE and Israel to chart a new path."

The UAE's ambassador to Washington Yousef al-Otaiba said the peace deal with Israel was a "win for diplomacy" and a "significant advance in Arab-Israeli relations".

"Today's announcement is a win for diplomacy and for the region. It is a significant advance in Arab-Israeli relations that lowers tensions and creates new energy for positive change," Yousef al-Otaiba said.

US President Donald Trump today announced a "historic peace agreement" between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates!

US President Donald Trump today announced a "historic peace agreement" between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. HUGE breakthrough today! Historic Peace Agreement between our two GREAT friends, Israel and the United Arab Emirates! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 13, 2020 × After making the surprise announcement, Trump told reporters that diplomatic breakthroughs between Israel and its Muslim neighbors in the region were also expected. The White House said President Trump, PM Netanyahu and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and deputy supreme commander of UAE spoke today and agreed to the "full normalization of relations between Israel and UAE." The "historic diplomatic breakthrough will advance peace in the Middle East region," it said, adding,"it is a testament to the bold diplomacy and vision of the three leaders and the courage of the UAE and Israel to chart a new path." The UAE's ambassador to Washington Yousef al-Otaiba said the peace deal with Israel was a "win for diplomacy" and a "significant advance in Arab-Israeli relations". "Today's announcement is a win for diplomacy and for the region. It is a significant advance in Arab-Israeli relations that lowers tensions and creates new energy for positive change," Yousef al-Otaiba said.

Trump announces 'peace agreement' between Israel, UAE

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it.&nbsp;So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash.

"Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says.

Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking.

"Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde.

"We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said.

In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change.

Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking.

President Donald Trump is back in the news - his hair to be more precise. The halo of orange, that has been as much a subject of debate as his tweets - fake or real, people have been asking. The president hasn't turned a hair in response - he loves it. So much so, that he's changing America's shower rules, just to have the perfect hair wash. "Because my hair...I don't know about you but my hair has to be perfect...perfect," he says. Donald Trump wants his hair to be "perfect", even if it takes changing the law. The president is changing America's shower rules after complaining repeatedly that bathroom fixtures do not work according to his liking. "Mr Sandy Hair" believes water does not come out fast enough from fixtures and that was enough for his administration to propose rule changes. The new rules will now allow shower heads to boost water pressure only for the US president to maintain his thatch of blonde. "We're bringing back consumer choice and home appliances so that you can buy washers and dryers, shower heads and faucets. so showerheads, you take a shower, the water doesn't come out. You want to wash your hands. the water doesn't come out. so what do you do? You just stand there longer. you take a shower longer, because my hair I don't know about you, but has to be perfect. perfect," the president said. In 1992, the US set a rule - a water limit for shower fixtures to 2.5 gallon per minute. The idea was to save water, the rule got in Trump's hair. Now that he's president and evidently vain about his golden fleece, he wants change. Regulators have allowed shower fixtures to include multiple shower heads, however, consumer groups have decried the plan. They say current rules save money, water and fuel. The president thinks they're splitting hair.

Now, Donald Trump wants rule change to ensure perfect hair wash

Joe Biden's running mate for the White House Kamala Harris has been a vocal critic of India’s Kashmir policy especially the decision to revoke the special status of&nbsp;Kashmir. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-indian-origin-us-senator-kamala-harris-is-making-history-319837">Also read: How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history</a> 
 
Last year&nbsp;Harris was running her own campaign for the Democratic nomination. On two occasions&nbsp;she was asked about India’s Kashmir decision and on both occasions&nbsp;she backed the demand for intervention.

Harris made the same statement in October which said: "We have to remind the Kashmiris that they are not alone in the world." The statement was reported prominently in Pakistani media.

When India passed the Citizenship Amendment Act, some lawmakers went into overdrive. Five Indian-American lawmakers - all Democrats.

They spoke out against the CAA among them were Raja Krishnamoorthy, Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Ami Bera and Kamala Harris. Pramila Jayapal, in fact, had pushed a resolution in December. It urged India to end the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir.

External affairs minister S.Jaishankar refused to meet Jayapal during his visit to America terming her understanding of the situation as “unfair”. Harris had jumped in support of Jayapal.

India felt it was a clear case of selective outrage. While Jayapal and Harris leave no opportunity to lecture India on human rights. They have nothing to say when Indians become the target of terrorist attacks in Kashmir.

They offer no resolutions when Hindus are forced to convert in Pakistan and they haven’t criticised China even after Chinese soldiers led a brutal and unprovoked assault on Indian soldiers at the border in Ladakh.

However, Pramila Jayapal and Kamala Harris haven’t shied away from embracing their Indian heritage&nbsp;on different occasions&nbsp;while Jayapal has brought up how she was an Indian citizen until the age of 35,&nbsp;Harris backed her&nbsp;Indian roots. After the announcement today Maya Harris, sister of Kamala put out a video which features their mother Shyamala Harris. She had immigrated from Chennai to the US.

The post says: “you can’t know who Harris is without knowing her mother. Know our mother, ancestors are smiling today.” It’s a touching message that has won praise&nbsp;from Indian-Americans.

Clearly, Harris is not averse to the Indian vote bank in the US but she has a very different stance against India that unsettles policymakers in New Delhi.

Joe Biden's running mate for the White House Kamala Harris has been a vocal critic of India’s Kashmir policy especially the decision to revoke the special status of Kashmir.

Joe Biden's running mate for the White House Kamala Harris has been a vocal critic of India’s Kashmir policy especially the decision to revoke the special status of Kashmir. Also read: How Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Harris is making history Last year Harris was running her own campaign for the Democratic nomination. On two occasions she was asked about India’s Kashmir decision and on both occasions she backed the demand for intervention. Harris made the same statement in October which said: "We have to remind the Kashmiris that they are not alone in the world." The statement was reported prominently in Pakistani media. When India passed the Citizenship Amendment Act, some lawmakers went into overdrive. Five Indian-American lawmakers - all Democrats. They spoke out against the CAA among them were Raja Krishnamoorthy, Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Ami Bera and Kamala Harris. Pramila Jayapal, in fact, had pushed a resolution in December. It urged India to end the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir. External affairs minister S.Jaishankar refused to meet Jayapal during his visit to America terming her understanding of the situation as “unfair”. Harris had jumped in support of Jayapal. India felt it was a clear case of selective outrage. While Jayapal and Harris leave no opportunity to lecture India on human rights. They have nothing to say when Indians become the target of terrorist attacks in Kashmir. They offer no resolutions when Hindus are forced to convert in Pakistan and they haven’t criticised China even after Chinese soldiers led a brutal and unprovoked assault on Indian soldiers at the border in Ladakh. However, Pramila Jayapal and Kamala Harris haven’t shied away from embracing their Indian heritage on different occasions while Jayapal has brought up how she was an Indian citizen until the age of 35, Harris backed her Indian roots. After the announcement today Maya Harris, sister of Kamala put out a video which features their mother Shyamala Harris. She had immigrated from Chennai to the US. The post says: “you can’t know who Harris is without knowing her mother. Know our mother, ancestors are smiling today.” It’s a touching message that has won praise from Indian-Americans. Clearly, Harris is not averse to the Indian vote bank in the US but she has a very different stance against India that unsettles policymakers in New Delhi.

Why Kamala Harris unsettles policymakers in New Delhi

Amid tensions with Taiwan, China's foreign ministry said today that despite Taiwan increasing its military budget next year its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-announces-increase-in-military-spending-320201">Also Read: Taiwan announces increase in military spending</a>

"Taiwan's independence is a dead-end for sure," China's foreign ministry spokesman said, adding,"Taiwan is spending taxpayers money on national defence, no matter how much money it spends, Taiwan is a very small place and its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree."

Taiwan has around 215,000 soldiers and a defence budget of $12 billion compared with China's estimated two million armed forces backed by a budget of $178 billion, according to AFP data. China also possesses sophisticated Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles(ICBM) along with two aircraft carriers including nuclear-powered submarines.

China considers Taiwan as a renegade province and has warned it would seize Taiwan by force if necessary even as the country ramps up its military.&nbsp;

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has rejected "one China" policy even as President Xi had said last year that Taiwan's reunification with the mainland was "inevitable".

Amid tensions in the Taiwan Straits which has become a major flashpoint in recent months, the Trump administration has boosted Taiwan's arsenal by selling 66 next-generation F-16 fighters including upgrading&nbsp;the country's Patriot missiles.

The United States is bound by Congress to provide Taiwan with arms to defend itself. Taiwan which had split in 1949 after when Chiang Kai-shek's nationalists had fled the island has been the source of recurrent tension between the two countries.&nbsp;

Amid tensions with Taiwan, China's foreign ministry said today that despite Taiwan increasing its military budget next year its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree.

Amid tensions with Taiwan, China's foreign ministry said today that despite Taiwan increasing its military budget next year its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree." Also Read: Taiwan announces increase in military spending "Taiwan's independence is a dead-end for sure," China's foreign ministry spokesman said, adding,"Taiwan is spending taxpayers money on national defence, no matter how much money it spends, Taiwan is a very small place and its "fight against the mainland is like a worm shaking a tree." Taiwan has around 215,000 soldiers and a defence budget of $12 billion compared with China's estimated two million armed forces backed by a budget of $178 billion, according to AFP data. China also possesses sophisticated Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles(ICBM) along with two aircraft carriers including nuclear-powered submarines. China considers Taiwan as a renegade province and has warned it would seize Taiwan by force if necessary even as the country ramps up its military. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has rejected "one China" policy even as President Xi had said last year that Taiwan's reunification with the mainland was "inevitable". Amid tensions in the Taiwan Straits which has become a major flashpoint in recent months, the Trump administration has boosted Taiwan's arsenal by selling 66 next-generation F-16 fighters including upgrading the country's Patriot missiles. The United States is bound by Congress to provide Taiwan with arms to defend itself. Taiwan which had split in 1949 after when Chiang Kai-shek's nationalists had fled the island has been the source of recurrent tension between the two countries.

Taiwan's fight against mainland is like a worm shaking a tree: China

France on Thursday conducted military exercise with Greece off Crete even as it said that it was "temporarily reinforcing" military presence in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

French Rafale jets are due to arrive in Crete after finishing military exercise in Cyprus. Earlier, the Tonnerre (Thunder) helicopter along with La Fayette frigate had taken part in a military exercise with Greek forces.

The relations between France and Turkey have deteriorated ever since Paris&nbsp;accused Ankara of violating the sovereignty of Greece and Cyprus. According to reports, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called up President Macron to discuss the situation in the region on Wednesday.

After the call, Mitsotakis in a tweet said: "Emmanuel Macron is a true friend of Greece and a fervent defender of European values and international law." Mitsotakis had earlier said that the "risk of an accident lurks when so many military assets are gathered in such a contained area."

Greece and Turkey have been squabbling over hydrocarbon resources in the Mediterranean as both countries lay claim to the area. France had earlier criticised "aggressive" action by Turkish ships against a French vessel participating in a NATO mission in the Mediterranean.

Amid the undercurrent of tension in the area, Turkey had sent the research ship Oruc Reis along with naval ships off the Greek island of Kastellorizo promoting Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias to ask Turkey to remove the ship even as deployed warships to monitor the vessel.

France on Thursday conducted military exercise with Greece off Crete even as it said that it was "temporarily reinforcing" military presence in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

France on Thursday conducted military exercise with Greece off Crete even as it said that it was "temporarily reinforcing" military presence in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. French Rafale jets are due to arrive in Crete after finishing military exercise in Cyprus. Earlier, the Tonnerre (Thunder) helicopter along with La Fayette frigate had taken part in a military exercise with Greek forces. The relations between France and Turkey have deteriorated ever since Paris accused Ankara of violating the sovereignty of Greece and Cyprus. According to reports, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called up President Macron to discuss the situation in the region on Wednesday. After the call, Mitsotakis in a tweet said: "Emmanuel Macron is a true friend of Greece and a fervent defender of European values and international law." Mitsotakis had earlier said that the "risk of an accident lurks when so many military assets are gathered in such a contained area." Greece and Turkey have been squabbling over hydrocarbon resources in the Mediterranean as both countries lay claim to the area. France had earlier criticised "aggressive" action by Turkish ships against a French vessel participating in a NATO mission in the Mediterranean. Amid the undercurrent of tension in the area, Turkey had sent the research ship Oruc Reis along with naval ships off the Greek island of Kastellorizo promoting Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias to ask Turkey to remove the ship even as deployed warships to monitor the vessel.

France, Greece conduct naval exercise off Crete amid tensions with Turkey

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