Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-ed-summons-p-chidambaram-in-connection-with-purchase-of-111-aircraft-during-upas-tenure-244150">anticipatory bail pleas of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram</a> in connection with INX Media case, news agency ANI reported

Chidambaram has now no protection from arrest. The pleas have been 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;

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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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The Enforcement Directorate had summoned Chidambaram to appear before it for questioning in connection with the purchase of 111 aircraft for Air India during Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's tenure, sources said on Monday.

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Delhi High Court dismisses both anticipatory bail pleas of Former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media case. <a href="https://t.co/Gbt4Py4y8m">pic.twitter.com/Gbt4Py4y8m</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1163746435415908352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the sources, the case pertains to the purchase of 111 aircraft - 48 aircraft from Airbus and 68 from Boeing for Rs 70,000 crore in 2007.

The senior Congress leader will, on August 23, depose before the agency and record his statement in connection to the purchase of 48 aircraft from Airbus.

On May 15, 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR in the INX Media case alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007. Chidambaram was finance minister in the UPA I government at that time.

The ED had lodged a money laundering case in this regard last year.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed both anticipatory bail pleas of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media case, news agency ANI reported Chidambaram has now no protection from arrest.

Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed both anticipatory bail pleas of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media case, news agency ANI reported Chidambaram has now no protection from arrest. The pleas have been 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. 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 × The Enforcement Directorate had summoned Chidambaram to appear before it for questioning in connection with the purchase of 111 aircraft for Air India during Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's tenure, sources said on Monday. Delhi High Court dismisses both anticipatory bail pleas of Former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media case. pic.twitter.com/Gbt4Py4y8m — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2019 × According to the sources, the case pertains to the purchase of 111 aircraft - 48 aircraft from Airbus and 68 from Boeing for Rs 70,000 crore in 2007. The senior Congress leader will, on August 23, depose before the agency and record his statement in connection to the purchase of 48 aircraft from Airbus. On May 15, 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR in the INX Media case alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the media group for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007. Chidambaram was finance minister in the UPA I government at that time. The ED had lodged a money laundering case in this regard last year. (With inputs from ANI)

No protection from arrest for P Chidambaram as Delhi High Court dismisses bail pleas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-successfully-completes-lunar-orbit-insertion-maneuver-244285">Chandrayaan 2 entering the moon's orbit</a>.

In a tweet, Modi said this was an important step in the landmark journey to the moon.

"Congratulations to Team ISRO on Chandrayaan 2 entering the moon's orbit. This is an important step in the landmark journey to the moon. Best wishes for its successful culmination," the Prime Minister said.

ISRO chief K Sivan on Tuesday announced at Bengaluru that Chandrayaan 2 had successfully entered the lunar orbit and soft landing on the moon will take place on September 7.

Sivan also said that an invitation has been extended to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to witness the landing.&nbsp;

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Congratulations to Team <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan2</a> entering the Moon’s orbit. This is an important step in the landmark journey to the Moon. 
 
Best wishes for its successful culmination.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1163730981859151872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Israel on Tuesday congratulated India for successfully placing Chandrayaan-2 in moon's orbit.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) earlier in the day announced that Chandrayaan-2 was successfully placed in the moon's orbit.

The Lunar Orbit Insertion (LOI) manoeuvre which took a little over 28 minutes was completed at 9:02 am.

Chandrayaan will attempt to make a landing on the moon next month and Tel Aviv wished India success for the mission.

"Congratulations to India and Team @ISRO for successfully completing Lunar Orbit insertion of Chandrayaan2. Good Luck for a successful &amp; soft landing on the moon next month!" tweeted Israel embassy in India.

Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot. The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body".

The spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Chandrayaan 2 entering the moon's orbit. In a tweet, Modi said this was an important step in the landmark journey to the moon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Chandrayaan 2 entering the moon's orbit. In a tweet, Modi said this was an important step in the landmark journey to the moon. "Congratulations to Team ISRO on Chandrayaan 2 entering the moon's orbit. This is an important step in the landmark journey to the moon. Best wishes for its successful culmination," the Prime Minister said. ISRO chief K Sivan on Tuesday announced at Bengaluru that Chandrayaan 2 had successfully entered the lunar orbit and soft landing on the moon will take place on September 7. Sivan also said that an invitation has been extended to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to witness the landing. Congratulations to Team @isro on #Chandrayaan2 entering the Moon’s orbit. This is an important step in the landmark journey to the Moon. Best wishes for its successful culmination. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 20, 2019 × Israel on Tuesday congratulated India for successfully placing Chandrayaan-2 in moon's orbit. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) earlier in the day announced that Chandrayaan-2 was successfully placed in the moon's orbit. The Lunar Orbit Insertion (LOI) manoeuvre which took a little over 28 minutes was completed at 9:02 am. Chandrayaan will attempt to make a landing on the moon next month and Tel Aviv wished India success for the mission. "Congratulations to India and Team @ISRO for successfully completing Lunar Orbit insertion of Chandrayaan2. Good Luck for a successful & soft landing on the moon next month!" tweeted Israel embassy in India. Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot. The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body". The spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon.

Important step in landmark journey to Moon: PM Modi on Chandrayaan-2 entering lunar orbit

A Delhi court on Tuesday deferred to August 29 the hearing on the Enforcement Directorate's plea seeking cancellation of bail of Rajiv Saxena, accused-turned-approver in the AgustaWestland money laundering case.

Counsel for Saxena Geeta Luthra filed the reply on the agency's application and informed Special Judge Arvind Kumar that the Supreme Court will take up on August 26 a petition of the ED challenging a Delhi High Court order allowing her client to travel abroad.

The ED had on July 15 approached Kumar's court cancellation of the bail granted Saxena on February 25.

The agency has alleged that despite turning an approver, he has been in touch with other persons who are involved in the case.

Saxena has a mala fide intent to shield other accused persons and prevent a successful prosecution, the agency has submitted.

The ED has stated he failed to join the investigation citing frivolous reasons after being called by it around 25 times.

Without intimating the investigation officer, Saxena left for Mumbai as he had checked out of the address known to the agency, the plea has contended.

"It is now clear that he has hidden his role and culpability in the case. He has acted in bad faith and contrary to the condition, he provided selective evidence with regard to other persons. He willfully failed to disclose all the facts within his knowledge and give documentary evidence in his possession in a clear attempt to shift liability," the ED counsel has said.

The Central Bureau of Investigation and the ED had earlier issued summonses to Saxena to join the probe.

The Dubai-based businessman was extradited to India on January 31 in connection with the Rs 3,600-crore scam case relating to the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters from AgustaWestland.

 
&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Tuesday deferred to August 29 the hearing on the Enforcement Directorate's plea seeking cancellation of bail of Rajiv Saxena, accused-turned-approver in the AgustaWestland money laundering case.

A Delhi court on Tuesday deferred to August 29 the hearing on the Enforcement Directorate's plea seeking cancellation of bail of Rajiv Saxena, accused-turned-approver in the AgustaWestland money laundering case. Counsel for Saxena Geeta Luthra filed the reply on the agency's application and informed Special Judge Arvind Kumar that the Supreme Court will take up on August 26 a petition of the ED challenging a Delhi High Court order allowing her client to travel abroad. The ED had on July 15 approached Kumar's court cancellation of the bail granted Saxena on February 25. The agency has alleged that despite turning an approver, he has been in touch with other persons who are involved in the case. Saxena has a mala fide intent to shield other accused persons and prevent a successful prosecution, the agency has submitted. The ED has stated he failed to join the investigation citing frivolous reasons after being called by it around 25 times. Without intimating the investigation officer, Saxena left for Mumbai as he had checked out of the address known to the agency, the plea has contended. "It is now clear that he has hidden his role and culpability in the case. He has acted in bad faith and contrary to the condition, he provided selective evidence with regard to other persons. He willfully failed to disclose all the facts within his knowledge and give documentary evidence in his possession in a clear attempt to shift liability," the ED counsel has said. The Central Bureau of Investigation and the ED had earlier issued summonses to Saxena to join the probe. The Dubai-based businessman was extradited to India on January 31 in connection with the Rs 3,600-crore scam case relating to the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters from AgustaWestland.

AgustaWestland case: Delhi court defers hearing on ED's plea for cancellation of Rajiv Saxena's bail

Waitress Palki at Guwahati's Uruka restaurant is the talk of the town. The humanoid robot unveiled at the women-run eatery recently has been a hit with patrons, especially the younger generation who enjoy the novelty of being served by her.

Robot Palki has been designed by S N Farid, the husband of the restaurant's owner Karishma Begum.

"This restaurant is being run by a group of women and I am trying to create new fusion cuisine, especially for the young generation. We serve a welcome drink and unlimited starters to our customers. Then, we serve the Assam's tradition food buffet. Recently, I introduced a robot, Palki in order to attract the customers," said Karishma Begum, the owner of Uruka restaurant.

The restaurant specialises in ethnic cuisine and keeping with the theme waitress Palki also dons the traditional Satriya attire.

"I really like this place, the hospitality received here is remarkable. The food is quite delicious here. The robot waitress is quite interesting; it's a new thing for me. She served us delicious food. I haven't seen this kind of robot in other restaurants," said a customer.

Notably, proprietor of the restaurant Farid says he is also working on three more similar robot projects. Humanoid robots are seen to be a trend worldwide.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Waitress Palki at Guwahati's Uruka restaurant is the talk of the town. The humanoid robot unveiled at the women-run eatery recently has been a hit with patrons, especially the younger generation who enjoy the novelty of being served by her.

Waitress Palki at Guwahati's Uruka restaurant is the talk of the town. The humanoid robot unveiled at the women-run eatery recently has been a hit with patrons, especially the younger generation who enjoy the novelty of being served by her. Robot Palki has been designed by S N Farid, the husband of the restaurant's owner Karishma Begum. "This restaurant is being run by a group of women and I am trying to create new fusion cuisine, especially for the young generation. We serve a welcome drink and unlimited starters to our customers. Then, we serve the Assam's tradition food buffet. Recently, I introduced a robot, Palki in order to attract the customers," said Karishma Begum, the owner of Uruka restaurant. The restaurant specialises in ethnic cuisine and keeping with the theme waitress Palki also dons the traditional Satriya attire. "I really like this place, the hospitality received here is remarkable. The food is quite delicious here. The robot waitress is quite interesting; it's a new thing for me. She served us delicious food. I haven't seen this kind of robot in other restaurants," said a customer. Notably, proprietor of the restaurant Farid says he is also working on three more similar robot projects. Humanoid robots are seen to be a trend worldwide.

Assam: First humanoid robot 'Palki' serves delicacies at Guwahati eatery

Indian shares settled lower on Tuesday, led by a fall in financial and consumer stocks with Yes Bank Ltd closing at its lowest in over six years.

The broader NSE Nifty closed 0.33 per cent lower at 11,017, while the benchmark BSE Sensex finished down 0.2 per cent at 37,328.01.

The Nifty PSU index finished the day 2.35 per cent lower, with State Bank of India settling down over 1 per cent.

Among consumer stocks, Britannia Industries Ltd lost 3.24 per cent to its lowest since February 2018, while ITC Ltd settled 1.87 per cent lower.

IT stocks held onto gains and closed 1.2 per cent higher as the rupee weakened to its lowest since February.

Indian shares settled lower on Tuesday, led by a fall in financial and consumer stocks with Yes Bank Ltd closing at its lowest in over six years. The broader NSE Nifty closed 0.

Indian shares settled lower on Tuesday, led by a fall in financial and consumer stocks with Yes Bank Ltd closing at its lowest in over six years. The broader NSE Nifty closed 0.33 per cent lower at 11,017, while the benchmark BSE Sensex finished down 0.2 per cent at 37,328.01. The Nifty PSU index finished the day 2.35 per cent lower, with State Bank of India settling down over 1 per cent. Among consumer stocks, Britannia Industries Ltd lost 3.24 per cent to its lowest since February 2018, while ITC Ltd settled 1.87 per cent lower. IT stocks held onto gains and closed 1.2 per cent higher as the rupee weakened to its lowest since February.

Nifty, Sensex end lower; financials, consumer stocks weigh

The United Nations' refugee agency and Bangladesh authorities on Tuesday started to consult more than 3,000 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to determine if any want to return home, officials said, as a fresh repatriation bid was launched.

More than 730,000 Rohingya fled Rakhine for neighbouring Bangladesh after a military-led crackdown in August 2017 the United Nations has said was perpetrated with "genocidal intent", but many refugees refuse to go back, fearing more violence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/around-3500-rohingya-cleared-to-return-home-to-myanmar-starting-this-week-source-244272">Myanmar cleared 3,450 people to return</a>, from a list of more than 22,000 provided by Bangladesh, authorities said.

"The intentions surveys are beginning today," Louise Donovan, a UNHCR spokeswoman in the Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh, told Reuters.

"Together, the government of Bangladesh and UNHCR will ask these refugees to come forward and discuss the option of repatriation."

The agency will hold a second confidential interview with those who express a wish to return, she added, to discuss their intentions, and ensure the decision is voluntary, she said.

"They will be asked to complete a voluntary repatriation form," she added.

A representative of Bangladesh's refugee relief effort will also attend the interviews, a government official said.

"The UN refugee agency has started interviewing the Rohingya on the list," Mohammad Abul Kalam, the country's refugee relief and repatriation commissioner, said by telephone.

"Transit centres, transport facilities…everything is ready to start the repatriation on Thursday," he added.

The UN&nbsp;Security Council is set to discuss the latest repatriation plan behind closed doors on Wednesday, at the request of Belgium, Britain, France, Germany and the United States, diplomats said.

British charity Oxfam called for the international community to step up diplomatic pressure on Myanmar and expressed concern about human rights violations there. 
 
"Oxfam remains concerned about human rights violations in Myanmar and hopes the government will take this opportunity to recognise the equal rights of Rohingya people and to lift the heavy restrictions on their movement," said Elizabeth Hallinan, an official of the charity.

"Refugees long to return to their homes, but they tell us they fear going back without rights and justice," Hallinan said in a statement.

Last week, Myanmar government spokesman Zaw Htay said officials had scrutinized the list of refugees to determine whether they had lived in Myanmar and had been involved in attacks on the military.

The 2017 crackdown was preceded by attacks on security forces by insurgents calling themselves the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which Myanmar has classified as a terrorist organization.

Previous attempts at persuading Rohingya to return to Rakhine have failed due to opposition from refugees. An effort in November sowed fear and confusion in the camps, and finally failed after refugee protests. 
&nbsp;

The United Nations' refugee agency and Bangladesh authorities on Tuesday started to consult more than 3,000 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to determine if any want to return home, officials said, as a fresh repatriation bid was launched.

The United Nations' refugee agency and Bangladesh authorities on Tuesday started to consult more than 3,000 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to determine if any want to return home, officials said, as a fresh repatriation bid was launched. More than 730,000 Rohingya fled Rakhine for neighbouring Bangladesh after a military-led crackdown in August 2017 the United Nations has said was perpetrated with "genocidal intent", but many refugees refuse to go back, fearing more violence. Myanmar cleared 3,450 people to return, from a list of more than 22,000 provided by Bangladesh, authorities said. "The intentions surveys are beginning today," Louise Donovan, a UNHCR spokeswoman in the Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh, told Reuters. "Together, the government of Bangladesh and UNHCR will ask these refugees to come forward and discuss the option of repatriation." The agency will hold a second confidential interview with those who express a wish to return, she added, to discuss their intentions, and ensure the decision is voluntary, she said. "They will be asked to complete a voluntary repatriation form," she added. A representative of Bangladesh's refugee relief effort will also attend the interviews, a government official said. "The UN refugee agency has started interviewing the Rohingya on the list," Mohammad Abul Kalam, the country's refugee relief and repatriation commissioner, said by telephone. "Transit centres, transport facilities…everything is ready to start the repatriation on Thursday," he added. The UN Security Council is set to discuss the latest repatriation plan behind closed doors on Wednesday, at the request of Belgium, Britain, France, Germany and the United States, diplomats said. British charity Oxfam called for the international community to step up diplomatic pressure on Myanmar and expressed concern about human rights violations there. "Oxfam remains concerned about human rights violations in Myanmar and hopes the government will take this opportunity to recognise the equal rights of Rohingya people and to lift the heavy restrictions on their movement," said Elizabeth Hallinan, an official of the charity. "Refugees long to return to their homes, but they tell us they fear going back without rights and justice," Hallinan said in a statement. Last week, Myanmar government spokesman Zaw Htay said officials had scrutinized the list of refugees to determine whether they had lived in Myanmar and had been involved in attacks on the military. The 2017 crackdown was preceded by attacks on security forces by insurgents calling themselves the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which Myanmar has classified as a terrorist organization. Previous attempts at persuading Rohingya to return to Rakhine have failed due to opposition from refugees. An effort in November sowed fear and confusion in the camps, and finally failed after refugee protests.

UN agency, Bangladesh begin survey of Rohingya over return to Myanmar

Amid tensions between India and Pakistan over the revocation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-chief-bs-dhanoa-emphasises-the-need-to-develop-indigenous-defence-equipment-for-self-reliance-244345">Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa</a> on Tuesday said that the Air Force is "cautious and alert" to face any eventuality on the border.

"We have seen their deployment. Indian Air Force is always cautious. We are responsible for air defence and we are always alert," Dhanoa told media persons here when asked about the situation at the Indo-Pak border.

He said that the Air Force is prepared "not only when any enemy fighter comes in but we also keep an eye on civilian aircraft so that incidents like Purulia airdrop do not happen".

Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged heavy fire several times after the government repealed Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. There were also reports of military movement along the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had last week termed the movement as "normal".

"Everybody took precautionary deployments and movement of precautionary resources and one should not be too concerned about them as they were normal," Rawat had said.

Pakistan Prime Minister had earlier this month threatened India, saying "incidents like Pulwama are bound to happen again and that Pakistan will fight till the last drop of blood if a war ensues".

Pakistan's ambassador to the US, Asad Majeed Khan, on August 12, said that his country might deploy troops from the Afghanistan border to the Kashmir frontier.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Amid tensions between India and Pakistan over the revocation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Tuesday said that the Air Force is "cautious and alert" to face any eventuality on the border.

Amid tensions between India and Pakistan over the revocation of special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Tuesday said that the Air Force is "cautious and alert" to face any eventuality on the border. "We have seen their deployment. Indian Air Force is always cautious. We are responsible for air defence and we are always alert," Dhanoa told media persons here when asked about the situation at the Indo-Pak border. He said that the Air Force is prepared "not only when any enemy fighter comes in but we also keep an eye on civilian aircraft so that incidents like Purulia airdrop do not happen". Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged heavy fire several times after the government repealed Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. There were also reports of military movement along the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had last week termed the movement as "normal". "Everybody took precautionary deployments and movement of precautionary resources and one should not be too concerned about them as they were normal," Rawat had said. Pakistan Prime Minister had earlier this month threatened India, saying "incidents like Pulwama are bound to happen again and that Pakistan will fight till the last drop of blood if a war ensues". Pakistan's ambassador to the US, Asad Majeed Khan, on August 12, said that his country might deploy troops from the Afghanistan border to the Kashmir frontier.

IAF cautious and alert, says Air Chief BS Dhanoa amid Indo-Pak tensions

Abolition of Triple Talaq will ensure dignity and equality to crores of Muslim women, said Union Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah here on Sunday.

Speaking on "Abolition of Triple Talaq - Correction of a historic wrong" at the Constitution Club of India here, Shah traced the journey of the Act, saying that he had spoken on the issue of Triple Talaq when it was in the ordinance format and when it was a bill.

He said that it was a proud moment for him to speak of the issue of Triple Talaq when it had finally been enacted by the Parliament.

Blaming the policy of appeasement for the opposition to the removal of Triple Talaq, he said that while removal of social evils is generally welcomed by society, it was appeasement that led to some opposition to the move.

Shah said that social unity and holistic development are hampered because of appeasement.

He said that the development of an entire society takes hard work and rigorous planning, and requires dedication, commitment, and empathy.

Calling appeasement a "shortcut", he said that appeasement never leads to development.

Shah said that those who are left behind in the journey of development must be empowered, and that holistic, all-encompassing, last-mile development is the philosophy of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Giving the examples of nations that had abolished Triple Talaq, Shah said that several Islamic nations had already taken the step decades ago, and this proves that such a barbaric practice is not part of Islamic culture.

Praising the tenacity and decisiveness of the government, Shah said that the road to ending Triple Talaq was not easy, as the Bill was not able to pass through the Rajya Sabha multiple times.

However, the government persisted with the passage of the Bill and was ultimately successful.

Commenting on the Constitutional Status of the issue, Shah said that a five-judge Constitution Bench had pronounced with a majority of 3-2 that the practice of Triple Talaq violates Article 14 of the Constitution -- equality before the law and equal protection of the law.

Thus, the Supreme Court itself has declared the practice of Triple Talaq to be illegal, unconstitutional, arbitrary and void. Shah said that the society must progress with time, otherwise, it becomes stale.

He also said that the abolition of Triple Talaq would ensure dignity and equality for crores of Muslim women.

Commenting on the aspect of imprisonment for the violation of the Act, Shri Shah remarked that the correction of many social evils required the application of criminal laws - from Sati Pratha and child marriages to polygamy and dowry.

Regarding the maintenance of the aggrieved wife and children, Shah said that the husband will be required to provide for the wife he divorces through Triple Talaq, as well as their children.

Shah said that the law stipulates three years of imprisonment for violators, and bail is possible only after the aggrieved woman has had a chance to present her side to the court.

Thus, this law empowers Muslim women in the truest sense of the word. Commenting on the results of a survey, Shah said that 92.1 per cent Muslim women wanted Triple Talaq gone.

He said that he was proud of having voted against ending the social evil of Triple Talaq.

Shah observed that nepotism, casteism, and appeasement have collectively damaged the nation's polity, and emphasised that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government had taken steps to remove all three from India`s polity.

Shah stated that with the passage of the Act, the Prime Minister's promise to the nation stands fulfilled.

He also said that the world looks up to India with respect because of this move. He remarked that great social reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy, Jyotiba Phule, Kavi Narmad Mahatma Gandhi, Veer Savarkar, and Dr Ambedkar have all contributed to uplifting our society and removing social evils.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s name would find a place in the list of great social reformers because of his leadership in the quest for abolishing the practice of Triple Talaq.

Hailing the Prime Minister for the decision, Shah said that the journey of the nation towards development must not stop here. He emphasised that the nation must function not on nepotism, casteism or appeasement, but on merit.&nbsp; 
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Abolition of Triple Talaq will ensure dignity and equality to crores of Muslim women, said Union Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah here on Sunday. Speaking on "Abolition of Triple Talaq - Correction of a historic wrong" at the Constitution Club of India here, Shah traced the journey of the Act, saying that he had spoken on the issue of Triple Talaq when it was in the ordinance format and when it was a bill.

Abolition of Triple Talaq will ensure dignity and equality to crores of Muslim women, said Union Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah here on Sunday. Speaking on "Abolition of Triple Talaq - Correction of a historic wrong" at the Constitution Club of India here, Shah traced the journey of the Act, saying that he had spoken on the issue of Triple Talaq when it was in the ordinance format and when it was a bill. He said that it was a proud moment for him to speak of the issue of Triple Talaq when it had finally been enacted by the Parliament. Blaming the policy of appeasement for the opposition to the removal of Triple Talaq, he said that while removal of social evils is generally welcomed by society, it was appeasement that led to some opposition to the move. Shah said that social unity and holistic development are hampered because of appeasement. He said that the development of an entire society takes hard work and rigorous planning, and requires dedication, commitment, and empathy. Calling appeasement a "shortcut", he said that appeasement never leads to development. Shah said that those who are left behind in the journey of development must be empowered, and that holistic, all-encompassing, last-mile development is the philosophy of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Giving the examples of nations that had abolished Triple Talaq, Shah said that several Islamic nations had already taken the step decades ago, and this proves that such a barbaric practice is not part of Islamic culture. Praising the tenacity and decisiveness of the government, Shah said that the road to ending Triple Talaq was not easy, as the Bill was not able to pass through the Rajya Sabha multiple times. However, the government persisted with the passage of the Bill and was ultimately successful. Commenting on the Constitutional Status of the issue, Shah said that a five-judge Constitution Bench had pronounced with a majority of 3-2 that the practice of Triple Talaq violates Article 14 of the Constitution -- equality before the law and equal protection of the law. Thus, the Supreme Court itself has declared the practice of Triple Talaq to be illegal, unconstitutional, arbitrary and void. Shah said that the society must progress with time, otherwise, it becomes stale. He also said that the abolition of Triple Talaq would ensure dignity and equality for crores of Muslim women. Commenting on the aspect of imprisonment for the violation of the Act, Shri Shah remarked that the correction of many social evils required the application of criminal laws - from Sati Pratha and child marriages to polygamy and dowry. Regarding the maintenance of the aggrieved wife and children, Shah said that the husband will be required to provide for the wife he divorces through Triple Talaq, as well as their children. Shah said that the law stipulates three years of imprisonment for violators, and bail is possible only after the aggrieved woman has had a chance to present her side to the court. Thus, this law empowers Muslim women in the truest sense of the word. Commenting on the results of a survey, Shah said that 92.1 per cent Muslim women wanted Triple Talaq gone. He said that he was proud of having voted against ending the social evil of Triple Talaq. Shah observed that nepotism, casteism, and appeasement have collectively damaged the nation's polity, and emphasised that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government had taken steps to remove all three from India`s polity. Shah stated that with the passage of the Act, the Prime Minister's promise to the nation stands fulfilled. He also said that the world looks up to India with respect because of this move. He remarked that great social reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy, Jyotiba Phule, Kavi Narmad Mahatma Gandhi, Veer Savarkar, and Dr Ambedkar have all contributed to uplifting our society and removing social evils. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s name would find a place in the list of great social reformers because of his leadership in the quest for abolishing the practice of Triple Talaq. Hailing the Prime Minister for the decision, Shah said that the journey of the nation towards development must not stop here. He emphasised that the nation must function not on nepotism, casteism or appeasement, but on merit.

Abolition of Triple Talaq will ensure dignity, equality to crores of Muslim women: Amit Shah

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-injured-cases-of-hooliganism-reported-jammu-and-kashmir-principal-secretary-243922">190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar</a>, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley.

"We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Rohit Kansal said while addressing a press conference here.

He said the process of easing of prohibitory orders and providing relaxations continued on Sunday as well.

Kansal said the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations on Sunday as against 35 police stations on Saturday, and the duration in the relaxation was increased from six hours to eight hours.

In a statement, Kansal was quoted as saying that no untoward incident was reported from the areas where relaxation was provided.

According to the statement, traffic including public transport plied and shopkeepers opened their businesses.

Kansal said that it was the endeavour of the government to restore all the landlines to their full functionality as soon as possible.

"BSNL officers and technicians are working continuously to restore the working of exchanges across Kashmir valley," he said. "The government will attempt to restore infrastructural and developmental works as the overall situation further improves," added Kansal.

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The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over 190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday said that over 190 primary schools will re-open tomorrow in Srinagar, besides restoring "full functionality" of government offices across Kashmir valley. "We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Rohit Kansal said while addressing a press conference here. He said the process of easing of prohibitory orders and providing relaxations continued on Sunday as well. Kansal said the relaxations were provided in 50 police stations on Sunday as against 35 police stations on Saturday, and the duration in the relaxation was increased from six hours to eight hours. In a statement, Kansal was quoted as saying that no untoward incident was reported from the areas where relaxation was provided. According to the statement, traffic including public transport plied and shopkeepers opened their businesses. Kansal said that it was the endeavour of the government to restore all the landlines to their full functionality as soon as possible. "BSNL officers and technicians are working continuously to restore the working of exchanges across Kashmir valley," he said. "The government will attempt to restore infrastructural and developmental works as the overall situation further improves," added Kansal.

Over 190 primary schools will open on Monday in Srinagar: Principal Secretary Kansal

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission.

The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali.

The two leaders will review the entire gamut of bilateral partnership, including in the fields of connectivity, trade, economy, culture, power, and education.

"The Joint Commission meeting will review the overall state of bilateral relations, and various areas of cooperation such as connectivity and economic partnership, trade and transit, power and water resources sectors, culture, education and other matters of mutual interest," a release by Nepalese Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.

The Joint Commission, which was established in June 1987, provides an opportunity for the two neighbouring countries to review bilateral cooperation in all areas and extend necessary political guidance for further enhancing the traditionally close ties.

The last meeting of the commission was held in New Delhi in October 2016 during which the two sides had reviewed the progress in projects covered under the Lines of Credit, and had agreed to expedite their implementation.

Jaishankar will call on Nepal's President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during his stay.&nbsp; 
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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission. The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission. The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali. The two leaders will review the entire gamut of bilateral partnership, including in the fields of connectivity, trade, economy, culture, power, and education. "The Joint Commission meeting will review the overall state of bilateral relations, and various areas of cooperation such as connectivity and economic partnership, trade and transit, power and water resources sectors, culture, education and other matters of mutual interest," a release by Nepalese Foreign Ministry said on Sunday. The Joint Commission, which was established in June 1987, provides an opportunity for the two neighbouring countries to review bilateral cooperation in all areas and extend necessary political guidance for further enhancing the traditionally close ties. The last meeting of the commission was held in New Delhi in October 2016 during which the two sides had reviewed the progress in projects covered under the Lines of Credit, and had agreed to expedite their implementation. Jaishankar will call on Nepal's President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during his stay.

S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21

Expressing profound grief over the loss of human lives due to heavy rainfall and flood in several states including northern states, BJP working president JP Nadda has urged BJP workers to step-in for the relief work in the natural disaster-hit areas.

Nadda tweeted in Hindi, loosely translating to, "Himachal, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Punjab and other several other parts of the nation have suffered heavy losses due to the rainfall and flood. Several people have died in Himachal Pradesh in this tragedy. I express my profound grief to those who have suffered and their families."

"I urge all @BJP4India workers in the flood areas to participate in the relief work," he said a subsequent tweet.

As many as 18 people lost their lives in the past 24 hours due to heavy rains that battered Himachal Pradesh, chief minister Jairam Thakur said on Sunday.

On the other hand, a cloudburst hit Mori Tehsil in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district today, prompting the state government to dispatch teams of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to carry out rescue and evacuation operations.

Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in west Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed.&nbsp; 
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Expressing profound grief over the loss of human lives due to heavy rainfall and flood in several states including northern states, BJP working president JP Nadda has urged BJP workers to step-in for the relief work in the natural disaster-hit areas.

Expressing profound grief over the loss of human lives due to heavy rainfall and flood in several states including northern states, BJP working president JP Nadda has urged BJP workers to step-in for the relief work in the natural disaster-hit areas. Nadda tweeted in Hindi, loosely translating to, "Himachal, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Punjab and other several other parts of the nation have suffered heavy losses due to the rainfall and flood. Several people have died in Himachal Pradesh in this tragedy. I express my profound grief to those who have suffered and their families." "I urge all @BJP4India workers in the flood areas to participate in the relief work," he said a subsequent tweet. As many as 18 people lost their lives in the past 24 hours due to heavy rains that battered Himachal Pradesh, chief minister Jairam Thakur said on Sunday. On the other hand, a cloudburst hit Mori Tehsil in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district today, prompting the state government to dispatch teams of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to carry out rescue and evacuation operations. Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in west Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed.

Step-in for relief work in flood, rain hit areas: JP Nadda urges BJP workers

Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-limps-back-to-normalcy-internet-telephone-services-restored-schools-to-reopen-tomorrow-243742">Jammu and Kashmir</a>, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies.

Addressing a briefing, Kansal said that two minor injuries were reported in the region.

"We have received reports of hooligans and mischievous elements forcing shopkeepers in certain areas to keep their establishments shut. This has been taken note of by law enforcing agencies. Appropriate action will be taken," he said.

He opined that no report of any untoward incident came to fore from the areas where relaxation was provided.

"In areas where relaxation was provided, we have no report of any untoward incident. There are, however, very minor reports of 2-3 disturbances in areas where relaxations were not provided. These were dealt with by local security agencies," Kansal said.

He continued, "As of now, we have reports of two injuries; both are reported to be minor injuries. We will endeavour that landline communication is restored to its full functionality as soon as possible, subject to the physical limitation that BSNL is facing."

"We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," he added.

Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.

Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.&nbsp; 
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Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies.

Principal Secretary of Planning Commission in Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Kansal on Sunday said that cases of hooliganism and mischievous elements creating disturbances were reported from certain areas but was dealt with by local security agencies. Addressing a briefing, Kansal said that two minor injuries were reported in the region. "We have received reports of hooligans and mischievous elements forcing shopkeepers in certain areas to keep their establishments shut. This has been taken note of by law enforcing agencies. Appropriate action will be taken," he said. He opined that no report of any untoward incident came to fore from the areas where relaxation was provided. "In areas where relaxation was provided, we have no report of any untoward incident. There are, however, very minor reports of 2-3 disturbances in areas where relaxations were not provided. These were dealt with by local security agencies," Kansal said. He continued, "As of now, we have reports of two injuries; both are reported to be minor injuries. We will endeavour that landline communication is restored to its full functionality as soon as possible, subject to the physical limitation that BSNL is facing." "We have a plan of reopening over 190 primary schools in Srinagar district alone," he added. Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region. Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.

2 injured, cases of hooliganism reported: Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary

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