Sri Lanka on Tuesday brushed aside as "unwarranted and unacceptable" international criticism of its decision to name a war veteran accused of human rights violations as its army chief.

Monday's appointment of Shavendra Silva, 55, a key military leader during the final phase of the island nation's 26-year-long war with dissident Tamil Tigers, drew flak from the United States, United Nations and civil society groups.

The appointment was a sovereign decision taken by Sri Lanka's president, its foreign ministry said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Foreign entities trying to influence the decisions and internal administrative processes of public service promotions in Sri Lanka is unwarranted and unacceptable," it said in a statement.

Concerns raised over the appointment were "based on allegations" and were "regrettable", it added.

In a statement, the European Union said the appointment called into question Sri Lanka's international commitment to ensure justice and accountability.

"It also undermines Sri Lanka's efforts towards national reconciliation and sends a worrying message to victims and survivors of the war," the delegation of the European Union in Sri Lanka said on Tuesday.

A United Nations panel has accused Silva's army division of suspected extrajudicial executions of unarmed rebels in the final week of the war, which ended in 2009, and systematic torture of people in custody.

He has denied the accusations.

Some of Sri Lanka's key allies could sever ties with the country's military with Silva at the helm, security experts have warned.

"The US&nbsp;might stop its military assistance, especially training to Sri Lanka," said defence analyst Iqbal Athas, adding that the Indian Ocean island nation could face a similar backlash from the European Union.

&nbsp;

Sri Lanka on Tuesday brushed aside as "unwarranted and unacceptable" international criticism of its decision to name a war veteran accused of human rights violations as its army chief.

Sri Lanka on Tuesday brushed aside as "unwarranted and unacceptable" international criticism of its decision to name a war veteran accused of human rights violations as its army chief. Monday's appointment of Shavendra Silva, 55, a key military leader during the final phase of the island nation's 26-year-long war with dissident Tamil Tigers, drew flak from the United States, United Nations and civil society groups. The appointment was a sovereign decision taken by Sri Lanka's president, its foreign ministry said on Tuesday. "Foreign entities trying to influence the decisions and internal administrative processes of public service promotions in Sri Lanka is unwarranted and unacceptable," it said in a statement. Concerns raised over the appointment were "based on allegations" and were "regrettable", it added. In a statement, the European Union said the appointment called into question Sri Lanka's international commitment to ensure justice and accountability. "It also undermines Sri Lanka's efforts towards national reconciliation and sends a worrying message to victims and survivors of the war," the delegation of the European Union in Sri Lanka said on Tuesday. A United Nations panel has accused Silva's army division of suspected extrajudicial executions of unarmed rebels in the final week of the war, which ended in 2009, and systematic torture of people in custody. He has denied the accusations. Some of Sri Lanka's key allies could sever ties with the country's military with Silva at the helm, security experts have warned. "The US might stop its military assistance, especially training to Sri Lanka," said defence analyst Iqbal Athas, adding that the Indian Ocean island nation could face a similar backlash from the European Union.

Sri Lanka says international criticism over new army chief 'unwarranted'

Continuing its cautious approach, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/life-returning-to-normal-in-kashmir-valley-jk-government-244222">Jammu and Kashmir government</a> has decided to open middle schools in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-life-on-path-to-normalcy-in-udhampur-as-schools-markets-reopen-244507">Kashmir valley</a> from Wednesday after primary schools were made functional on Monday.

The decision came a day after primary schools were opened across all districts of Kashmir, which saw a tepid response on the first day (Monday) but witnessed "considerable improvement today", according to Rohit Kansal, principal secretary, Jammu and Kashmir.

"Yesterday was the first day when we have taken a decision to open primary schools all across the districts of Kashmir. Staff members, as well as students, attended although attendance was not high yesterday," he told the media.

"But keeping in view the considerable improvement in attendance of students today and encouraging feedback from parents and the number of requests we have received from parents we have decided that middle school in Kashmir valley will also start functioning from tomorrow in the areas where primary schools are already open," said Kansal.

He said that reports of normal functioning are coming from larger parts of the state with 22 districts reportedly functioning normally.

"136 out of 197 Police Stations have no day time restrictions of any type while in the Kashmir valley alone 50 out of 111 Police stations have no day time restrictions. Government offices are open and are reporting more than normal attendance," Kansal said.

He also said that 73,000 landlines out of total 96 thousand in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are functional.

"73,000 landlines out of total ninety-six thousand in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are now functional. Further, there are reports that in the last 12 days Rs 800 crore is withdrawn in Kashmir valley from a total of 734 ATMs located here," said the official.

"In the areas having relaxation public transport has started functioning and from today we have reports of inter-district transport also. National Highways and Airport are reported to be functioning normally. An adequate supply of all essential item including medicines have been ensured," he said.

Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories -&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.&nbsp;

Continuing its cautious approach, the Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to open middle schools in the Kashmir valley from Wednesday after primary schools were made functional on Monday.

Continuing its cautious approach, the Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to open middle schools in the Kashmir valley from Wednesday after primary schools were made functional on Monday. The decision came a day after primary schools were opened across all districts of Kashmir, which saw a tepid response on the first day (Monday) but witnessed "considerable improvement today", according to Rohit Kansal, principal secretary, Jammu and Kashmir. "Yesterday was the first day when we have taken a decision to open primary schools all across the districts of Kashmir. Staff members, as well as students, attended although attendance was not high yesterday," he told the media. "But keeping in view the considerable improvement in attendance of students today and encouraging feedback from parents and the number of requests we have received from parents we have decided that middle school in Kashmir valley will also start functioning from tomorrow in the areas where primary schools are already open," said Kansal. He said that reports of normal functioning are coming from larger parts of the state with 22 districts reportedly functioning normally. "136 out of 197 Police Stations have no day time restrictions of any type while in the Kashmir valley alone 50 out of 111 Police stations have no day time restrictions. Government offices are open and are reporting more than normal attendance," Kansal said. He also said that 73,000 landlines out of total 96 thousand in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are functional. "73,000 landlines out of total ninety-six thousand in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are now functional. Further, there are reports that in the last 12 days Rs 800 crore is withdrawn in Kashmir valley from a total of 734 ATMs located here," said the official. "In the areas having relaxation public transport has started functioning and from today we have reports of inter-district transport also. National Highways and Airport are reported to be functioning normally. An adequate supply of all essential item including medicines have been ensured," he said. Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.

Middle schools in Kashmir to open from Wednesday: Principal secretary

One Army jawan lost his life while four other Army personnel including two officers were injured on Tuesday as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Krishna Ghati sector, army sources said.

The soldier who lost his life was identified as Naik Ravi Ranjan Kumar Singh, 36, a resident of Rohtas district in Bihar.

According to army sources, the four injured included two officers and two jawans who were hit by a mortar fired from across the LoC.

The jawans and the officers were travelling in their official vehicle when the incident happened.

The injured have been evacuated and provided medical care. Their health is in stable condition.

Paying tribute to the braveheart, Indian Army`s Northern Command had tweeted, "Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, Army CdrNC and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Naik Ravi Ranjan Kumar Singh and offer deepest condolences to the family."

"He was a brave, highly motivated and sincere soldier. The Nation will always remain indebted to him for the supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," read an official statement issued by PRO Defence.

The ceasefire violation was responded strongly and effectively by the Indian Army.

"Heavy damage to Pakistan Army posts and casualties to Pakistan soldiers have been inflicted by own troops," the statement added.

On August 17, Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa had lost his life in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district.

One Army jawan lost his life while four other Army personnel including two officers were injured on Tuesday as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Krishna Ghati sector, army sources said.

One Army jawan lost his life while four other Army personnel including two officers were injured on Tuesday as Pakistan violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Krishna Ghati sector, army sources said. The soldier who lost his life was identified as Naik Ravi Ranjan Kumar Singh, 36, a resident of Rohtas district in Bihar. According to army sources, the four injured included two officers and two jawans who were hit by a mortar fired from across the LoC. The jawans and the officers were travelling in their official vehicle when the incident happened. The injured have been evacuated and provided medical care. Their health is in stable condition. Paying tribute to the braveheart, Indian Army`s Northern Command had tweeted, "Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, Army CdrNC and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Naik Ravi Ranjan Kumar Singh and offer deepest condolences to the family." "He was a brave, highly motivated and sincere soldier. The Nation will always remain indebted to him for the supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," read an official statement issued by PRO Defence. The ceasefire violation was responded strongly and effectively by the Indian Army. "Heavy damage to Pakistan Army posts and casualties to Pakistan soldiers have been inflicted by own troops," the statement added. On August 17, Lance Naik Sandeep Thapa had lost his life in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district.

Jammu and Kashmir: Army jawan killed, four personnel injured in Pakistan ceasefire violation

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening.

"After the scrapping of Article 370, schools were closed for a few days. However, they were soon reopened. We also organised Independence day and everything is working fine," Sishu Vatika School Principal Shri Krishan told ANI.

He added that the environment in the region is getting better and several markets have also opened up.

"Students are taking all their classes and we are also carrying out seminars. The schools are functioning normally. Teachers are also counselling the students not to give heed to any rumours and focus on their studies," said Amit Sharma, a teacher at ML Higher Secondary School.

The government had on Sunday said that as many as 190 primary schools would be re-opened in Srinagar alone and that it would ease and lift the restrictions in a phased manner in the state.

"Schools were closed just for 3-4 days on orders from the district magistrate. Schools reopened afterwards. Students and teachers are coming in full strength," said Ajay Vishist, principal of a government school in the region.

Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories -&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening.

After lifting of restrictions imposed post the abrogation of Article 370, life limps back on track for the people of Udhampur here with educational institutions and markets opening. "After the scrapping of Article 370, schools were closed for a few days. However, they were soon reopened. We also organised Independence day and everything is working fine," Sishu Vatika School Principal Shri Krishan told ANI. He added that the environment in the region is getting better and several markets have also opened up. "Students are taking all their classes and we are also carrying out seminars. The schools are functioning normally. Teachers are also counselling the students not to give heed to any rumours and focus on their studies," said Amit Sharma, a teacher at ML Higher Secondary School. The government had on Sunday said that as many as 190 primary schools would be re-opened in Srinagar alone and that it would ease and lift the restrictions in a phased manner in the state. "Schools were closed just for 3-4 days on orders from the district magistrate. Schools reopened afterwards. Students and teachers are coming in full strength," said Ajay Vishist, principal of a government school in the region. Prohibitory orders were issued after the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on August 5.

Jammu and Kashmir: Life on path to normalcy in Udhampur as schools, markets reopen

A petition was submitted in Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday demanding the quashing of the FIRs registered against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-finds-hafiz-saeed-guilty-in-terror-financing-case-report-241330">UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed</a> and 65 others.

The petition was submitted by a JuD affiliate, Malik Zafar Iqbal. The high court will take up the matter for hearing on August 22.

Iqbal, in his petition, has contended that the complaints are "without lawful authority and are of no legal effect", Dawn reported.

Last month, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials arrested Saeed in Gujranwala, Punjab.&nbsp;

The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits.

On July 3, the top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab in Pakistan, had stated that JuD was involved in terror funding collected through organisations including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, and Muaz Bin Jabal Trust.

The terrorist was reportedly on his way to an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Gujranwalato seek bail when he was arrested.

A petition was submitted in Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday demanding the quashing of the FIRs registered against UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed and 65 others.

A petition was submitted in Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday demanding the quashing of the FIRs registered against UN-proscribed terrorist and Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed and 65 others. The petition was submitted by a JuD affiliate, Malik Zafar Iqbal. The high court will take up the matter for hearing on August 22. Iqbal, in his petition, has contended that the complaints are "without lawful authority and are of no legal effect", Dawn reported. Last month, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials arrested Saeed in Gujranwala, Punjab. The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits. On July 3, the top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab in Pakistan, had stated that JuD was involved in terror funding collected through organisations including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, and Muaz Bin Jabal Trust. The terrorist was reportedly on his way to an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Gujranwalato seek bail when he was arrested.

Pakistan: Petition submitted to quash FIRs against Hafiz Saeed

In more trouble for senior Congress leader P Chidambaram who could be arrested, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-cbi-team-arrives-at-p-chidambarams-residence-244460">Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea</a> of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram observing that he is the "key conspirator" in the INX Media case.

Shortly after the order delivered by Justice Sunil Gaur, a six-member team of CBI officials went to the Jor Bagh residence of the former Union Minister, apparently to arrest him, but returned as he was said to be not there.

A last-ditch attempt to get a stay of the order was made by Chidambaram's lawyer Dayan Krishnan who sought a stay for three days so that they could appeal against it.

The judge said he would consider but later rejected it. Top lawyers Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi rushed to the Supreme Court and appeared before the court of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi who told them to move the senior-most judge on Wednesday morning.

"Facts of the case prima facie reveal that the petitioner (P Chidambaram) is the kingpin i.e. the key conspirator in this case," the Justice Sunil Gaur stated in the order.

He said that the gravity of the offence and evasive replies to the questions prompted the court to deny the pre-arrest bail to the former union finance minister.

The court said that it is preposterous to say prosecution of Chidambaram is baseless, politically motivated and an act of vendetta.

"Simply because Chidambaram is a Member of Parliament, would not justify the grant of pre-arrest bail to him," the order stated.

"This grant of bail in cases like instant one will send a wrong message to the society, stated the order.

"It cannot be forgotten that the petitioner was the Finance Minister at the relevant time and had given FDI clearances to INX Media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 Crore," it read.

Taking note of "huge magnitude of conspiracy angle", the judge observed that it would be premature to jump to a conclusion that provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) would not imply.

The court said that the law enforcement agencies cannot be made "ineffective" by putting legal obstacles of offences in question.

"It was pertinently observed that the economic crimes of such mammoth scale are craftily planned and executed," the order said.

The Congress leader will, however, approach the Supreme Court tomorrow seeking a stay of the order and also to challenge it.

In 2007, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union Finance Minister.

Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him.

Chidambaram has denied the charges and said the case against him was political motivated.

Chidambaram's son Karti has also been named in the two cases. He was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI and was later released on bail.

The ED had attached properties belonging to him. On July 4, a Delhi court had allowed Indrani Mukerjea, the former head of the INX Media, to turn an approver in the CBI case.

The agency had submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani Mukerjea is privy to and will help consolidate the case.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In more trouble for senior Congress leader P Chidambaram who could be arrested, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram observing that he is the "key conspirator" in the INX Media case.

In more trouble for senior Congress leader P Chidambaram who could be arrested, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of senior Congress leader P Chidambaram observing that he is the "key conspirator" in the INX Media case. Shortly after the order delivered by Justice Sunil Gaur, a six-member team of CBI officials went to the Jor Bagh residence of the former Union Minister, apparently to arrest him, but returned as he was said to be not there. A last-ditch attempt to get a stay of the order was made by Chidambaram's lawyer Dayan Krishnan who sought a stay for three days so that they could appeal against it. The judge said he would consider but later rejected it. Top lawyers Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi rushed to the Supreme Court and appeared before the court of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi who told them to move the senior-most judge on Wednesday morning. "Facts of the case prima facie reveal that the petitioner (P Chidambaram) is the kingpin i.e. the key conspirator in this case," the Justice Sunil Gaur stated in the order. He said that the gravity of the offence and evasive replies to the questions prompted the court to deny the pre-arrest bail to the former union finance minister. The court said that it is preposterous to say prosecution of Chidambaram is baseless, politically motivated and an act of vendetta. "Simply because Chidambaram is a Member of Parliament, would not justify the grant of pre-arrest bail to him," the order stated. "This grant of bail in cases like instant one will send a wrong message to the society, stated the order. "It cannot be forgotten that the petitioner was the Finance Minister at the relevant time and had given FDI clearances to INX Media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 Crore," it read. Taking note of "huge magnitude of conspiracy angle", the judge observed that it would be premature to jump to a conclusion that provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) would not imply. The court said that the law enforcement agencies cannot be made "ineffective" by putting legal obstacles of offences in question. "It was pertinently observed that the economic crimes of such mammoth scale are craftily planned and executed," the order said. The Congress leader will, however, approach the Supreme Court tomorrow seeking a stay of the order and also to challenge it. In 2007, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union Finance Minister. Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him. Chidambaram has denied the charges and said the case against him was political motivated. Chidambaram's son Karti has also been named in the two cases. He was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI and was later released on bail. The ED had attached properties belonging to him. On July 4, a Delhi court had allowed Indrani Mukerjea, the former head of the INX Media, to turn an approver in the CBI case. The agency had submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani Mukerjea is privy to and will help consolidate the case.

P Chidambaram key conspirator in INX Media case: Delhi High Court

In a bid to quell any discontent over taking members from other parties ahead of the crucial assembly elections in four states, BJP president Amit Shah has asked the state in-charges to be cautious over the admission process.

Sources said this follows unease among the party workers over unbridled admission of workers from other parties that could affect the interest of those in the organisation for long, especially in the election-bound states.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by party president Amit Shah here on Tuesday.

BJP Working President JP Nadda and BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) B L Santosh were also present in the meeting attended by election in-charges of the states of Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Delhi.

The sources also said that any decision on workers and members from other parties joining BJP might be taken close to the Assembly elections.

The meeting also decided that election in-charge of states, assistant election in-charges and state in-charges of all the poll-bound states must sit together and chalk out an election roadmap.

Further, it decided that Jharkhand will also hold "Janadesh Yatra" similar on the lines of Maharashtra and Haryana. Assembly polls in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand are slated for later this year. Polls in Delhi are scheduled to take place in February next year.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In a bid to quell any discontent over taking members from other parties ahead of the crucial assembly elections in four states, BJP president Amit Shah has asked the state in-charges to be cautious over the admission process.

In a bid to quell any discontent over taking members from other parties ahead of the crucial assembly elections in four states, BJP president Amit Shah has asked the state in-charges to be cautious over the admission process. Sources said this follows unease among the party workers over unbridled admission of workers from other parties that could affect the interest of those in the organisation for long, especially in the election-bound states. The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by party president Amit Shah here on Tuesday. BJP Working President JP Nadda and BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) B L Santosh were also present in the meeting attended by election in-charges of the states of Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Delhi. The sources also said that any decision on workers and members from other parties joining BJP might be taken close to the Assembly elections. The meeting also decided that election in-charge of states, assistant election in-charges and state in-charges of all the poll-bound states must sit together and chalk out an election roadmap. Further, it decided that Jharkhand will also hold "Janadesh Yatra" similar on the lines of Maharashtra and Haryana. Assembly polls in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand are slated for later this year. Polls in Delhi are scheduled to take place in February next year.

Adopt caution in admitting other party cadre: Amit Shah

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers arrived at former finance minister P Chidambaram's residence on Tuesday evening. However, he was not found at his residence when the team arrived. Chidambaram will be summoned to join the CBI probe.&nbsp;

Chidambaram, earlier in the day, lost protection from arrest after Delhi High Court <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-dismisses-p-chidambarams-bail-pleas-244365">dismissed both&nbsp;his anticipatory bail pleas</a> in connection with INX Media case.&nbsp;

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Delhi: A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers arrives at the residence of P Chidambaram. Earlier today, Delhi High Court had dismissed his both anticipatory bail pleas in connection with INX Media case. <a href="https://t.co/Zjn4XDiJk7">pic.twitter.com/Zjn4XDiJk7</a>
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The pleas were opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).&nbsp;

Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who is representing P Chidambaram said that they will now move the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

"We will mention the matter before the Supreme Court tomorrow morning," Sibal told reporters.&nbsp;

The High Court in its order said that&nbsp;the grant of bail in cases like instant one will send a wrong message to the society.

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Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, representing P Chidambaram says, "We will mention the matter before the Supreme Court tomorrow morning." <a href="https://t.co/w4FDl3auEG">https://t.co/w4FDl3auEG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1163775693743955968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It cannot be forgotten that the petitioner was the FM at the relevant time and he had given FDI clearances to INX Media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore. Facts of the case prima facie reveal that petitioner is the kingpin, i.e., the key conspirator in this case. Law enforcing agencies cannot be made ineffective by putting legal obstacles of offences in question," the statement read.

In 2007, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union Finance Minister.

Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him.

Chidambaram's son Karti has also been named in the two cases. He was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI and was later released on bail.

The ED had attached properties belonging to him.

On July 4, a Delhi court had allowed Indrani Mukerjea, the former head of the INX Media, to turn an approver in the CBI case.

The agency had submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani Mukerjea is privy to and will help consolidate the case.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers arrived at former finance minister P Chidambaram's residence on Tuesday evening. However, he was not found at his residence when the team arrived.

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers arrived at former finance minister P Chidambaram's residence on Tuesday evening. However, he was not found at his residence when the team arrived. Chidambaram will be summoned to join the CBI probe. Chidambaram, earlier in the day, lost protection from arrest after Delhi High Court dismissed both his anticipatory bail pleas in connection with INX Media case. Delhi: A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers arrives at the residence of P Chidambaram. Earlier today, Delhi High Court had dismissed his both anticipatory bail pleas in connection with INX Media case. pic.twitter.com/Zjn4XDiJk7 — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2019 × The pleas were opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED). Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who is representing P Chidambaram said that they will now move the Supreme Court. "We will mention the matter before the Supreme Court tomorrow morning," Sibal told reporters. The High Court in its order said that the grant of bail in cases like instant one will send a wrong message to the society. Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, representing P Chidambaram says, "We will mention the matter before the Supreme Court tomorrow morning." https://t.co/w4FDl3auEG — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2019 × "It cannot be forgotten that the petitioner was the FM at the relevant time and he had given FDI clearances to INX Media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore. Facts of the case prima facie reveal that petitioner is the kingpin, i.e., the key conspirator in this case. Law enforcing agencies cannot be made ineffective by putting legal obstacles of offences in question," the statement read. In 2007, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union Finance Minister. Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him. Chidambaram's son Karti has also been named in the two cases. He was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI and was later released on bail. The ED had attached properties belonging to him. On July 4, a Delhi court had allowed Indrani Mukerjea, the former head of the INX Media, to turn an approver in the CBI case. The agency had submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani Mukerjea is privy to and will help consolidate the case. (With inputs from ANI)

INX media case: P Chidambaram unavailable as CBI team arrives at his residence

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The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bus-hijacker-shot-by-police-passengers-unhurt-244455">Brazil bus hijacker shot by police; passengers unhurt</a> 
 
At least 16 people were trapped on the bus after it was commandeered by the gunman on a heavily transited bridge connecting Rio with the neighbouring city of Niteroi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-cries-foul-over-facebook-the-twitter-block-of-fake-accounts-244383">China cries foul after Facebook, Twitter block fake accounts linked to Hong Kong protests</a> 
 
Twitter Inc said on Monday it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-us-missile-test-to-result-in-arms-race-to-jeopardize-global-security-244367">US missile test will result in arms race, seriously damage international security , warns China</a> 
 
On August 2, the Russian-US Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which banned ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,417 miles), was terminated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-dismisses-p-chidambarams-bail-pleas-244365">No protection from arrest for P Chidambaram as Delhi High Court dismisses bail pleas</a>

The pleas have been opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).&nbsp;

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year. Brazil bus hijacker shot by police; passengers unhurt At least 16 people were trapped on the bus after it was commandeered by the gunman on a heavily transited bridge connecting Rio with the neighbouring city of Niteroi. China cries foul after Facebook, Twitter block fake accounts linked to Hong Kong protests Twitter Inc said on Monday it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China. US missile test will result in arms race, seriously damage international security , warns China On August 2, the Russian-US Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which banned ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,417 miles), was terminated. No protection from arrest for P Chidambaram as Delhi High Court dismisses bail pleas The pleas have been opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement.&nbsp;

This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

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NEW: <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USEmbassyKabul</a> announces $125 million in <a href="https://twitter.com/USAID?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAID</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USAIDFFP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAIDFFP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StatePRM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatePRM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/humanitarian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#humanitarian</a> aid for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> to provide 
🔹 food 🍚 
🔹 water 🥤 
🔹 health ⚕️ 
🔹 shelter 🏘️ 
+ more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict, &amp; drought<a href="https://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS">https://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS</a> <a href="https://t.co/m6SESaJdLO">pic.twitter.com/m6SESaJdLO</a>
— USAID/OFDA (@theOFDA) <a href="https://twitter.com/theOFDA/status/1163786665040732165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The humanitarian aid for Afghanistan will be used to provide food, water, health, shelter and "more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict and drought," read a tweet posted by USAID's Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance.&nbsp;

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The United States announces almost $125 million in humanitarian assistance to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>. This brings the total U.S. funding in this fiscal year to nearly $190 million. Full statement: <a href="https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG">https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldHumanitarianDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldHumanitarianDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USAIDAfghan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAIDAfghan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StatePRM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatePRM</a> <a href="https://t.co/I8dol1jP1t">pic.twitter.com/I8dol1jP1t</a>
— U.S. Embassy Kabul (@USEmbassyKabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyKabul/status/1163698228178628608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The United States announces an additional amount of nearly $125 million in humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of vulnerable Afghans inside Afghanistan, including internally displaced persons, conflict and flood-affected communities, and Afghan returnees. This brings the total US&nbsp;funding in this fiscal year to the Afghan humanitarian response to nearly $190 million, including for Afghan refugees in the region," the statement read.

The United States also urged all countries to come ahead and "make or increase their contributions to the UN humanitarian appeal for Afghanistan", which is currently only 27 per cent funded.&nbsp;

"The United States remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable Afghans and stands with the Afghan people in their dedication to helping create an Afghanistan in which all its citizens have the opportunity to live in peace and dignity," the statement posted on the website of US&nbsp;Embassy in Afghanistan read.&nbsp;

The additional funding will support life-saving activities and provide "emergency food, nutrition, clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, emergency health, disaster preparedness and risk reduction, shelter, protection, humanitarian coordination and logistics, and non-food items and relief commodities" along with "refugee repatriation grants, education, livelihoods and other efforts to promote long-term integration of returning refugees".

On Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/death-toll-reaches-123-in-multiple-bomb-blasts-in-afghanistans-jalalabad-244306">a series of bombings</a> struck restaurants and public squares in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence.&nbsp;

President Ashraf Ghani on Monday&nbsp;vowed to eliminate Islamic State&nbsp;from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people. Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day.

On Saturday, a deadly suicide-bomb blast took rocked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">Darulaman area of Kabul city</a>.&nbsp;

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-un-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-condemns-kabul-attack-that-killed-63-243955">Guterres condemned the attack</a> which&nbsp;claimed at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">63 lives and wounded over 180</a>.

Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.&nbsp;

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement. This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement. This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year. NEW: @USEmbassyKabul announces $125 million in @USAID @USAIDFFP @StatePRM #humanitarian aid for #Afghanistan to provide 🔹 food 🍚 🔹 water 🥤 🔹 health ⚕️ 🔹 shelter 🏘️ + more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict, & droughthttps://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS pic.twitter.com/m6SESaJdLO — USAID/OFDA (@theOFDA) August 20, 2019 × The humanitarian aid for Afghanistan will be used to provide food, water, health, shelter and "more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict and drought," read a tweet posted by USAID's Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance. The United States announces almost $125 million in humanitarian assistance to #Afghanistan. This brings the total U.S. funding in this fiscal year to nearly $190 million. Full statement: https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG #WorldHumanitarianDay @USAIDAfghan @StatePRM pic.twitter.com/I8dol1jP1t — U.S. Embassy Kabul (@USEmbassyKabul) August 20, 2019 × "The United States announces an additional amount of nearly $125 million in humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of vulnerable Afghans inside Afghanistan, including internally displaced persons, conflict and flood-affected communities, and Afghan returnees. This brings the total US funding in this fiscal year to the Afghan humanitarian response to nearly $190 million, including for Afghan refugees in the region," the statement read. The United States also urged all countries to come ahead and "make or increase their contributions to the UN humanitarian appeal for Afghanistan", which is currently only 27 per cent funded. "The United States remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable Afghans and stands with the Afghan people in their dedication to helping create an Afghanistan in which all its citizens have the opportunity to live in peace and dignity," the statement posted on the website of US Embassy in Afghanistan read. The additional funding will support life-saving activities and provide "emergency food, nutrition, clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, emergency health, disaster preparedness and risk reduction, shelter, protection, humanitarian coordination and logistics, and non-food items and relief commodities" along with "refugee repatriation grants, education, livelihoods and other efforts to promote long-term integration of returning refugees". On Monday, a series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday vowed to eliminate Islamic State from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people. Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day. On Saturday, a deadly suicide-bomb blast took rocked Darulaman area of Kabul city. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack which claimed at least 63 lives and wounded over 180. Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million

After a meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart A K Abdul Momen, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said there is "no change" in India's position on the proposed Teesta water-sharing agreement between New Delhi and Dhaka.

"We have a position. We have a commitment to that position. There is no change," he told the media after his meeting with Momen at the state guest house Jamuna, reported Dhaka Tribune.

Sharing of water of the Teesta River, which originates from Sikkim and flows through West Bengal to merge with the Brahmaputra in Assam and Jamuna in Bangladesh, is the most contentious issue between New Delhi and Dhaka. While Bangladesh has demanded 50 per cent of the river's water supply from December to March, India has claimed a share of 55 per cent.

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Bangladesh: Speaking to media after bilateral discussions, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said that he had a fruitful interaction with Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen 
and India is looking forward to host Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi in October. <a href="https://t.co/rF5QDtA5Kc">pic.twitter.com/rF5QDtA5Kc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1163770457495080966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Dhaka.

But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka in June 2015.

Modi had assured his Bangladeshi counterpart, Shiekh Hasina, that the waters of the river would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution to the issue.

Jaishnakar, who is on a three-day visit to Bangladesh, held "fruitful interaction" with Momen on a wide range of bilateral issues including Rohingyas and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming visit to New Delhi in October.

The External Affairs Minister said India is looking forward to host her. Jaishankar described Bangladesh-India relations as a model for other South Asian countries.

"Speaking to the media after the bilateral discussions #JamunaGuestHouse, EAM @DrSJaishankar said that he had a fruitful interaction with Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. @AKAbdulMomen and that #India is looking forward to host Prime Minister H.E. Sheikh Hasina in #NewDelhi in October," the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh tweeted.

While speaking on the issue of Rohingyas, Jaishankar said Bangladesh and India have agreed upon their "safe, speedy and sustainable <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-agency-bangladesh-begin-survey-of-rohingya-over-return-to-myanmar-244372">return" to Myanmar</a>.

More than 700,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar's western Rakhine state after a military crackdown that started in August last year. Many of them entered Bangladesh and are living there since then.

Jaishankar is scheduled to meet Hasina. Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka, Riva Ganguly Das, will be hosting a private dinner for the minister tonight.&nbsp;

After a meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart A K Abdul Momen, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said there is "no change" in India's position on the proposed Teesta water-sharing agreement between New Delhi and Dhaka.

After a meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart A K Abdul Momen, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said there is "no change" in India's position on the proposed Teesta water-sharing agreement between New Delhi and Dhaka. "We have a position. We have a commitment to that position. There is no change," he told the media after his meeting with Momen at the state guest house Jamuna, reported Dhaka Tribune. Sharing of water of the Teesta River, which originates from Sikkim and flows through West Bengal to merge with the Brahmaputra in Assam and Jamuna in Bangladesh, is the most contentious issue between New Delhi and Dhaka. While Bangladesh has demanded 50 per cent of the river's water supply from December to March, India has claimed a share of 55 per cent. Bangladesh: Speaking to media after bilateral discussions, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said that he had a fruitful interaction with Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and India is looking forward to host Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi in October. pic.twitter.com/rF5QDtA5Kc — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2019 × Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Modi had assured his Bangladeshi counterpart, Shiekh Hasina, that the waters of the river would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution to the issue. Jaishnakar, who is on a three-day visit to Bangladesh, held "fruitful interaction" with Momen on a wide range of bilateral issues including Rohingyas and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming visit to New Delhi in October. The External Affairs Minister said India is looking forward to host her. Jaishankar described Bangladesh-India relations as a model for other South Asian countries. "Speaking to the media after the bilateral discussions #JamunaGuestHouse, EAM @DrSJaishankar said that he had a fruitful interaction with Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. @AKAbdulMomen and that #India is looking forward to host Prime Minister H.E. Sheikh Hasina in #NewDelhi in October," the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh tweeted. While speaking on the issue of Rohingyas, Jaishankar said Bangladesh and India have agreed upon their "safe, speedy and sustainable return" to Myanmar. More than 700,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar's western Rakhine state after a military crackdown that started in August last year. Many of them entered Bangladesh and are living there since then. Jaishankar is scheduled to meet Hasina. Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka, Riva Ganguly Das, will be hosting a private dinner for the minister tonight.

'No change' in Teesta water-sharing agreement with Bangladesh: S Jaishankar

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles.

Several petitions are pending before Madras, Bombay and Madhya Pradesh High Courts seeking their direction for the interlinking of Aadhaar data with social media accounts for identity authentication.

A bench of Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice Aniruddha Bose said the Madras High Court shall continue hearing the pleas but shall not pass any order.

The apex court will further take up the matter for hearing on September 13.

The petition was filed by the social media giant last week. Facebook and WhatsApp told the bench that the matter should be adjudicated by it and sought transfer of petitions pending before high courts to the top court as any order passed against them will have global ramifications.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Facebook, argued that the issue is of such a magnitude that only the top court should take a decision on it.

"It affects the privacy of the whole nation. This is the policy matter," he said.

Rohatgi further argued that any order passed by the high courts will have wider ramifications as Facebook is a global entity and it has to abide by laws of different nations.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the court that the Central government is concerned about the messaging platform's end-to-end encryption and it is looking into it to frame some guidelines.

"While the government is dealing with this matter, let all the pleas come here. This can't be decided by high courts, it's a policy issue and should be decided by the Supreme Court. These are very serious issues," Sibal added.

Attorney General KK Venugopal, appearing for the Tamil Nadu government, contended that 18 hearings have taken place on the petitions in the Madras High Court and the judgement would come in another month.

"Facebook should not object to it," he said.

Citing the example of the controversial Blue Whale challenge, he argued that social media platforms should provide details about the origin of a message.

"Online games like the Blue Whale caused deaths in India because service providers did not provide details of the 'originator'. We had a serious situation during the Blue Whale game. Government of India struggled to find out about its originator, some said it's from Russia. Government is not equipped to detect the originator," Venugopal said.

He further said,&nbsp;"It is pertinent for social media platforms to share data with law enforcement agencies to ensure criminal activities like abetment to suicide or call for violence inter alia, through these platforms is curbed."After hearing the arguments, the bench said that a balance has to be struck between the protection of people's privacy online as well as a mechanism to identify people who commit an online criminal offence."

There is a conflict between the right to privacy and the duty to prevent crimes online. There is no doubt that there has to be a balance between the two," the court observed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles. Several petitions are pending before Madras, Bombay and Madhya Pradesh High Courts seeking their direction for the interlinking of Aadhaar data with social media accounts for identity authentication. A bench of Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice Aniruddha Bose said the Madras High Court shall continue hearing the pleas but shall not pass any order. The apex court will further take up the matter for hearing on September 13. The petition was filed by the social media giant last week. Facebook and WhatsApp told the bench that the matter should be adjudicated by it and sought transfer of petitions pending before high courts to the top court as any order passed against them will have global ramifications. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Facebook, argued that the issue is of such a magnitude that only the top court should take a decision on it. "It affects the privacy of the whole nation. This is the policy matter," he said. Rohatgi further argued that any order passed by the high courts will have wider ramifications as Facebook is a global entity and it has to abide by laws of different nations. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the court that the Central government is concerned about the messaging platform's end-to-end encryption and it is looking into it to frame some guidelines. "While the government is dealing with this matter, let all the pleas come here. This can't be decided by high courts, it's a policy issue and should be decided by the Supreme Court. These are very serious issues," Sibal added. Attorney General KK Venugopal, appearing for the Tamil Nadu government, contended that 18 hearings have taken place on the petitions in the Madras High Court and the judgement would come in another month. "Facebook should not object to it," he said. Citing the example of the controversial Blue Whale challenge, he argued that social media platforms should provide details about the origin of a message. "Online games like the Blue Whale caused deaths in India because service providers did not provide details of the 'originator'. We had a serious situation during the Blue Whale game. Government of India struggled to find out about its originator, some said it's from Russia. Government is not equipped to detect the originator," Venugopal said. He further said, "It is pertinent for social media platforms to share data with law enforcement agencies to ensure criminal activities like abetment to suicide or call for violence inter alia, through these platforms is curbed."After hearing the arguments, the bench said that a balance has to be struck between the protection of people's privacy online as well as a mechanism to identify people who commit an online criminal offence." There is a conflict between the right to privacy and the duty to prevent crimes online. There is no doubt that there has to be a balance between the two," the court observed.

Supreme Court issues notices to Centre, social media majors on Facebook plea

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