Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters defied authorities to hold an unsanctioned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-braces-for-new-rally-after-fresh-riot-police-clashes-238942">march through Hong Kong</a> on Sunday, a day after riot police fired <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-fire-tear-gas-rubber-bullets-at-hong-kongers-protesting-triad-attack-238916">rubber bullets and tear gas</a> to disperse another illegal gathering, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis.

Huge crowds made their way through the main island's streets in a now-familiar scene, but Sunday's march had a key difference - police had banned it.&nbsp;

Officials had initially only given permission for a rally in a park in the commercial district known as Central.

But the crowds quickly spilled into the surrounding streets and began walking east in spite of the ban, ratcheting up the likelihood of renewed clashes.

"I feel so conflicted, seeing young people sacrifice their future for Hong Kong," a 22-year-old student protester called Marcus told AFP, bursting into tears.

The latest march comes a day after a town near the border with mainland China descended into chaos as police battled protesters holding another banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend.

Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van.

Rubber bullets were fired later in the clashes, which ended when officers baton-charged the last remaining demonstrators inside the town's metro station, leaving pools of blood in the same concourse where the suspected triads had attacked the previous weekend.

Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis engulfing the city's pro-Beijing leadership who are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos.<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protest-protesters-defy-police-ban-238941/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Weeks of chaos

Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Yet the unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders.&nbsp;

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks, but has left it to the city's government to deal with the situation.

City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill.

Her administration has faced down weeks of public anger and she has made few public appearances beyond visiting injured officers and holding a handful of press conferences. &nbsp;

Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said the city was now trapped in a "vicious cycle" where huge peaceful marches that have been ignored by the government end with violence between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

"You see force being escalated on both sides but then this is a huge imbalance because the police are in possession of deadly weapons. This sums up Hong Kong today," she told AFP.&nbsp;

Battle for Yuen Long

Tensions were significantly raised after last weekend's attack by a pro-government mob in Yuen Long.

The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

That brazen assault resulted in at least 45 people being taken to hospital. Police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to the violence, fuelling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied.

In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors.

Tens of thousands of people defied the ban on Saturday and began a peaceful rally.

But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads.

Tensions quickly rose and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began.

Police on Sunday said 13 arrests were made in Yuen Long.

Among them was Max Chung, a young activist who had initially applied for permission to hold the Yuen Long protest. He was arrested for inciting an illegal assembly.

Hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, most of whom have been discharged but with two remaining in a serious condition.

&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters defied authorities to hold an unsanctioned march through Hong Kong on Sunday, a day after riot police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse another illegal gathering, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis.

Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters defied authorities to hold an unsanctioned march through Hong Kong on Sunday, a day after riot police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse another illegal gathering, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis. Huge crowds made their way through the main island's streets in a now-familiar scene, but Sunday's march had a key difference - police had banned it. Officials had initially only given permission for a rally in a park in the commercial district known as Central. But the crowds quickly spilled into the surrounding streets and began walking east in spite of the ban, ratcheting up the likelihood of renewed clashes. "I feel so conflicted, seeing young people sacrifice their future for Hong Kong," a 22-year-old student protester called Marcus told AFP, bursting into tears. The latest march comes a day after a town near the border with mainland China descended into chaos as police battled protesters holding another banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend. Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van. Rubber bullets were fired later in the clashes, which ended when officers baton-charged the last remaining demonstrators inside the town's metro station, leaving pools of blood in the same concourse where the suspected triads had attacked the previous weekend. Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis engulfing the city's pro-Beijing leadership who are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. Weeks of chaos Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Yet the unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders. Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks, but has left it to the city's government to deal with the situation. City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill. Her administration has faced down weeks of public anger and she has made few public appearances beyond visiting injured officers and holding a handful of press conferences. Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said the city was now trapped in a "vicious cycle" where huge peaceful marches that have been ignored by the government end with violence between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. "You see force being escalated on both sides but then this is a huge imbalance because the police are in possession of deadly weapons. This sums up Hong Kong today," she told AFP. Battle for Yuen Long Tensions were significantly raised after last weekend's attack by a pro-government mob in Yuen Long. The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. That brazen assault resulted in at least 45 people being taken to hospital. Police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to the violence, fuelling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied. In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors. Tens of thousands of people defied the ban on Saturday and began a peaceful rally. But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads. Tensions quickly rose and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began. Police on Sunday said 13 arrests were made in Yuen Long. Among them was Max Chung, a young activist who had initially applied for permission to hold the Yuen Long protest. He was arrested for inciting an illegal assembly. Hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, most of whom have been discharged but with two remaining in a serious condition.

Hong Kong unrest: Protesters defy police again, begin banned march

The owners of Stena Impero, a British-flagged oil tanker seized by Iran this month, said on Saturday that Indian, Russian and Philippine embassy officials met crew members from their respective countries and reported that they were in good health.

"We hope this situation can be resolved swiftly and will continue to hold an open dialogue with all involved governments and authorities to secure the release of the crew and vessel," Stena Bulk and Northern Marine Management said in a statement.

The Stena Impero was detained by Iran on July 19 in apparent retaliation for the British capture of an Iranian tanker two weeks earlier.

Meanwhile, Iran has freed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-urges-iran-to-free-all-its-crew-after-nine-released-238784">nine Indian crew members</a> of a Panama-flagged tanker it seized this month, the Indian foreign ministry said on Saturday, and it <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-urges-iran-to-free-all-its-crew-after-nine-released-238784">appealed for the release of three remaining crew members</a> held from the same ship.

Dozens of Indian crew members on ships in the Gulf have been caught up in rising tensions between Iran and the West.

The MT Riah was detained by the Iranian coastguard on July 13, with 12 Indian crew members on board, the Indian foreign ministry said.

"Nine crew members have been released and they will be on their way to India soon," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

"Our mission in Iran has requested the concerned Iranian authorities for the release of remaining crew members."

No reason was provided as to why the three were being held.&nbsp;

Iranian state TV aired footage of the vessel a few days after it was seized, saying it had been detained by Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards for smuggling fuel.

Indian and Iranian authorities said this week Iran had granted India consular access to 18 Indian crew seized on another ship, the British-flagged Stena Impero, that Iran seized in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19.

The seizure of the British tanker in the world’s most important waterway for the oil trade has deepened a crisis between Iran and the West that was triggered in May when the United States tightened sanctions, effectively barring all countries from buying Iranian oil.

Iran said it had seized the Stena Impero because it had collided with a fishing boat.&nbsp;

India’s junior foreign minister, V Muraleedharan, said India was pushing for the release of the Indian crew on the British vessel.&nbsp;

India has had long-standing political and energy ties with Iran, but it has cut off all its oil supplies from it because of US sanctions.

The owners of Stena Impero, a British-flagged oil tanker seized by Iran this month, said on Saturday that Indian, Russian and Philippine embassy officials met crew members from their respective countries and reported that they were in good health.

The owners of Stena Impero, a British-flagged oil tanker seized by Iran this month, said on Saturday that Indian, Russian and Philippine embassy officials met crew members from their respective countries and reported that they were in good health. "We hope this situation can be resolved swiftly and will continue to hold an open dialogue with all involved governments and authorities to secure the release of the crew and vessel," Stena Bulk and Northern Marine Management said in a statement. The Stena Impero was detained by Iran on July 19 in apparent retaliation for the British capture of an Iranian tanker two weeks earlier. Meanwhile, Iran has freed nine Indian crew members of a Panama-flagged tanker it seized this month, the Indian foreign ministry said on Saturday, and it appealed for the release of three remaining crew members held from the same ship. Dozens of Indian crew members on ships in the Gulf have been caught up in rising tensions between Iran and the West. The MT Riah was detained by the Iranian coastguard on July 13, with 12 Indian crew members on board, the Indian foreign ministry said. "Nine crew members have been released and they will be on their way to India soon," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. "Our mission in Iran has requested the concerned Iranian authorities for the release of remaining crew members." No reason was provided as to why the three were being held. Iranian state TV aired footage of the vessel a few days after it was seized, saying it had been detained by Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards for smuggling fuel. Indian and Iranian authorities said this week Iran had granted India consular access to 18 Indian crew seized on another ship, the British-flagged Stena Impero, that Iran seized in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19. The seizure of the British tanker in the world’s most important waterway for the oil trade has deepened a crisis between Iran and the West that was triggered in May when the United States tightened sanctions, effectively barring all countries from buying Iranian oil. Iran said it had seized the Stena Impero because it had collided with a fishing boat. India’s junior foreign minister, V Muraleedharan, said India was pushing for the release of the Indian crew on the British vessel. India has had long-standing political and energy ties with Iran, but it has cut off all its oil supplies from it because of US sanctions.

Owners of seized British-flagged oil tanker say crew is in good health

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-attend-commemorative-function-of-kargil-vijay-diwas-today-238788">commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas</a> at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/remembering-kargil-why-prevention-is-better-than-cure-238813">Remembering the bravehearts</a> who gave away their lives for the nation 20 years back, the prime minister said that he bows his "head to the brave soldiers".

"On this occasion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts," he said.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi: On this occassion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a> <a href="https://t.co/2pA2c13KyD">pic.twitter.com/2pA2c13KyD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1155124374590164997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is not the government that fights wars, the entire nation does," he said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I had gone to Kargil 20 years ago when war was at its peak, the enemy was playing its games sitting on high peaks. Death was staring in the face yet our jawans carrying the tricolor wanted to reach the valley before anyone. <a href="https://t.co/woz1ayuMOW">pic.twitter.com/woz1ayuMOW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1155126311079337985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The nation owes an eternal debt to the valour of our soldiers," the PM stated.

He added that the victory of the Kargil war was India's dream which was a result of discipline and honour.&nbsp;

"Kargil victory was the victory of the bravery of our sons and daughters. It was the victory of India's strength and patience. It was the victory of India's sanctity and discipline. It was the victory of every Indian's expectations," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War on Friday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi. Remembering the bravehearts who gave away their lives for the nation 20 years back, the prime minister said that he bows his "head to the brave soldiers". "On this occasion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts," he said. PM Narendra Modi: On this occassion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts. #KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/2pA2c13KyD — ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2019 × "It is not the government that fights wars, the entire nation does," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I had gone to Kargil 20 years ago when war was at its peak, the enemy was playing its games sitting on high peaks. Death was staring in the face yet our jawans carrying the tricolor wanted to reach the valley before anyone. pic.twitter.com/woz1ayuMOW — ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2019 × "The nation owes an eternal debt to the valour of our soldiers," the PM stated. He added that the victory of the Kargil war was India's dream which was a result of discipline and honour. "Kargil victory was the victory of the bravery of our sons and daughters. It was the victory of India's strength and patience. It was the victory of India's sanctity and discipline. It was the victory of every Indian's expectations," PM Modi said. × Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War on Friday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict. On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

'I bow my head to brave soldiers,' says PM Modi in tribute to Kargil bravehearts

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-sheila-dikshit-the-woman-who-transformed-delhi-into-a-sparkling-metropolitan-237324">Former Delhi Chief Minister, Congress veteran Sheila Dikshit</a> was cremated with full State Honours in Delhi on Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;

Dikshit's mortal remains were taken to the Congress headquarters from her residence in South Delhi this morning from where hundreds joined the procession to Nigam Bodh Ghat where she was cremated this afternoon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheila-dikshit-dissolves-all-280-block-congress-committees-in-delhi-231222">Dikshit</a> breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years, three consecutive terms, from the year 1998.&nbsp;

"Sheila Dikshit was managed well by a team of doctors. At 3:15 pm she again suffered a cardiac arrest. She was put on ventilator and at 3:55 pm she passed away peacefully,"&nbsp;Dr Ashok Seth, Director of Escorts Fortis, New Delhi told media on Saturday.

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Former Delhi Chief Minister &amp; Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, passes away in Delhi at the age of 81 years. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/8rqv8qfnAQ">pic.twitter.com/8rqv8qfnAQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1152526799403982848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Born in the year 1938, Dikshit was the longest serving chief minister of the national capital.&nbsp;

Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday. Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever).

Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well.

This Lok Sabha elections Dikshit unsuccessfully contested the polls against BJP's Delhi unit chief Manoj Tiwari from the North-East Delhi seat.&nbsp;

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Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/jERrvJlQ4X">pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1152531814155767809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dikshit's sudden demise came as a shock to the nation with condolences pouring in from all across.&nbsp;

"We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief," read a post tweeted by the Congress party.&nbsp;

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The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. 
 
Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family &amp; supporters. Om Shanti!
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1152531480888786944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dikshit as a "warm and affable personality"&nbsp;and condoled her demise.&nbsp;

"Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted out.&nbsp;

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Just now got to know about the extremely terrible news about the passing away of Mrs Sheila Dikshit ji. It is a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1152529908817522688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and political leaders from all the country extended deep regret on the sad news.&nbsp;

In her taintless career as Delhi's longest-serving chief minister, Dikshit transformed the infrastructure of the national capital giving it a look sprawling with wide roads, flyovers and world-class Metro service.&nbsp;

Sheila Dikshit led the Congress to a resounding victory with 52 seats in Delhi Assembly and went on to take the seat of national capital's chief minister.&nbsp;

Her stint was repeated for the next two terms - 2003 and in 2008.&nbsp;

Despite Dikshit's loss in the recently conducted Lok Sabha polls, she was seen a key player to turn Congress' luck around and reviving the party for the Assembly elections due next year.&nbsp;

Dikshit's loss leaves behind a dent not just in the political fabric of the national capital but in the minds and hearts of millions of Indians.&nbsp;

The Congress veteran was known for her soft-spoken nature, love for conversations, good food and of course, Delhi. She lives on in the hearts of all Indians and will always be dearly remembered. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former Delhi Chief Minister, Congress veteran Sheila Dikshit was cremated with full State Honours in Delhi on Sunday afternoon. Dikshit's mortal remains were taken to the Congress headquarters from her residence in South Delhi this morning from where hundreds joined the procession to Nigam Bodh Ghat where she was cremated this afternoon.

Former Delhi Chief Minister, Congress veteran Sheila Dikshit was cremated with full State Honours in Delhi on Sunday afternoon. Dikshit's mortal remains were taken to the Congress headquarters from her residence in South Delhi this morning from where hundreds joined the procession to Nigam Bodh Ghat where she was cremated this afternoon. Dikshit breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years, three consecutive terms, from the year 1998. "Sheila Dikshit was managed well by a team of doctors. At 3:15 pm she again suffered a cardiac arrest. She was put on ventilator and at 3:55 pm she passed away peacefully," Dr Ashok Seth, Director of Escorts Fortis, New Delhi told media on Saturday. Former Delhi Chief Minister & Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, passes away in Delhi at the age of 81 years. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/8rqv8qfnAQ — ANI (@ANI) July 20, 2019 × Born in the year 1938, Dikshit was the longest serving chief minister of the national capital. Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday. Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever). Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well. This Lok Sabha elections Dikshit unsuccessfully contested the polls against BJP's Delhi unit chief Manoj Tiwari from the North-East Delhi seat. Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 20, 2019 × Dikshit's sudden demise came as a shock to the nation with condolences pouring in from all across. "We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief," read a post tweeted by the Congress party. The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family & supporters. Om Shanti! — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 20, 2019 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dikshit as a "warm and affable personality" and condoled her demise. "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted out. Just now got to know about the extremely terrible news about the passing away of Mrs Sheila Dikshit ji. It is a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) July 20, 2019 × Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and political leaders from all the country extended deep regret on the sad news. In her taintless career as Delhi's longest-serving chief minister, Dikshit transformed the infrastructure of the national capital giving it a look sprawling with wide roads, flyovers and world-class Metro service. Sheila Dikshit led the Congress to a resounding victory with 52 seats in Delhi Assembly and went on to take the seat of national capital's chief minister. Her stint was repeated for the next two terms - 2003 and in 2008. Despite Dikshit's loss in the recently conducted Lok Sabha polls, she was seen a key player to turn Congress' luck around and reviving the party for the Assembly elections due next year. Dikshit's loss leaves behind a dent not just in the political fabric of the national capital but in the minds and hearts of millions of Indians. The Congress veteran was known for her soft-spoken nature, love for conversations, good food and of course, Delhi. She lives on in the hearts of all Indians and will always be dearly remembered.

Three-time Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit cremated with State Honours at Nigam Bodh Ghat

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting him to make all possible efforts to ensure the safety of crew of British Oil Tanker seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz comprised Indians, including four persons from the state.

In a letter dated July 21, Vijayan stated, "I have learnt from great concern from media reports that crew of the British Oil Tanker seized by Iran Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz comprises Indians, including four persons from Kerala. I also understand that your ministry is making interventions in this matter."

The Chief Minister has also sought complete details of the stranded crew so that their family members can be contacted at the hour of crisis.

"I request that all possible efforts to ensure the safety of the crew be made and the relevant details of persons may be shared with the State Government so that their family members can be contacted and we can be of help in their hour of crisis."

Two ships were seized by Iran`s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Friday - the UK-flagged Stena Impero and a Liberian-flagged MV Mesdar.

Iranian media reported that the British vessel was captured after an accident with a fishing boat, while the IRGC said that the vessel was held for "violating international regulations."

While the Liberian-flagged ship was let off by Iran, Stena Impero has been taken to Iran's Bandar Abbas Port. Even though the ship was registered in the UK, there were no Britons on board. The 23-man crew was made up of people with Indian, Russian, Latvian and Filipino nationality.

India is currently in touch with the Government of Iran to secure the early release and repatriation of Indian nationals onboard the detained UK-flagged vessel.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting him to make all possible efforts to ensure the safety of crew of British Oil Tanker seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz comprised Indians, including four persons from the state.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting him to make all possible efforts to ensure the safety of crew of British Oil Tanker seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz comprised Indians, including four persons from the state. In a letter dated July 21, Vijayan stated, "I have learnt from great concern from media reports that crew of the British Oil Tanker seized by Iran Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz comprises Indians, including four persons from Kerala. I also understand that your ministry is making interventions in this matter." The Chief Minister has also sought complete details of the stranded crew so that their family members can be contacted at the hour of crisis. "I request that all possible efforts to ensure the safety of the crew be made and the relevant details of persons may be shared with the State Government so that their family members can be contacted and we can be of help in their hour of crisis." Two ships were seized by Iran`s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Friday - the UK-flagged Stena Impero and a Liberian-flagged MV Mesdar. Iranian media reported that the British vessel was captured after an accident with a fishing boat, while the IRGC said that the vessel was held for "violating international regulations." While the Liberian-flagged ship was let off by Iran, Stena Impero has been taken to Iran's Bandar Abbas Port. Even though the ship was registered in the UK, there were no Britons on board. The 23-man crew was made up of people with Indian, Russian, Latvian and Filipino nationality. India is currently in touch with the Government of Iran to secure the early release and repatriation of Indian nationals onboard the detained UK-flagged vessel.

Kerala Chief Minister seeks Jaishankar's intervention to repatriate stranded crew of British oil tanker in Iran

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-meets-pakistan-businessmen-during-us-visit-237467">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>'s visit to the United States lands in a major controversy after netizens question the welcome accorded to him during his maiden visit.&nbsp;

A row has erupted over Khan's US visit, netizens question that Khan was not given a due welcome upon his arrival in Washington. Khan was welcomed by his Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi,&nbsp;Pakistan's envoy to the US and senior state department officials.&nbsp;

The US State Department maintains that Khan was received by Acting Chief of Protocol Mary-Kate Fisher as he is on a working visit and not a state visit.

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Prime Minister Khan was received at the airport by Acting Chief of Protocol Mary-Kate Fisher, as is standard for an Official Working Visit to the White House: <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StateDept</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> <a href="https://t.co/bNmGnDx5uT">https://t.co/bNmGnDx5uT</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1152976715204792321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Khan also boarded a commercial flight instead of a private jet - a move that is telling of Pakistan's current economic conditions.

Netizens were quick to comment on the welcome that was given to the Pak PM.

Watch: Will Afghanistan's allegation affect Imran Khan's US visit?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghans-allegation-will-affect-imran-khans-us-visit-237511/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Khan's three-day visit has already been marred by controversies. Ten members of the US Congress have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-apprised-of-persecution-of-mohajirs-in-pakistan-ahead-of-meeting-with-imran-khan-237508">written to President Donald Trump</a> raising serious concerns over the conversion of religious minorities in the South Asian nation.

Meanwhile, right ahead of Khan's meeting with the US President, the Afghan government accused Pakistan of being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-blames-pakistan-for-kandahar-attack-ahead-of-imran-trump-meet-237084">responsible for the recent Kandahar attack</a>.&nbsp;

The Kandahar terror attack, alleges Afghanistan, was planned in Chaman in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Twelve people were killed in the attack which was claimed by the Taliban.

India has long accused Pakistan of using terror as a state policy to foment trouble - a&nbsp;sentiment which has been echoed by Kabul in recent years.

Khan is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. He will be accompanied by General Bajwa and lieutenant General Hameed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the United States lands in a major controversy after netizens question the welcome accorded to him during his maiden visit.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the United States lands in a major controversy after netizens question the welcome accorded to him during his maiden visit. A row has erupted over Khan's US visit, netizens question that Khan was not given a due welcome upon his arrival in Washington. Khan was welcomed by his Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Pakistan's envoy to the US and senior state department officials. The US State Department maintains that Khan was received by Acting Chief of Protocol Mary-Kate Fisher as he is on a working visit and not a state visit. Prime Minister Khan was received at the airport by Acting Chief of Protocol Mary-Kate Fisher, as is standard for an Official Working Visit to the White House: @StateDept to @WIONews https://t.co/bNmGnDx5uT — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 21, 2019 × Khan also boarded a commercial flight instead of a private jet - a move that is telling of Pakistan's current economic conditions. Netizens were quick to comment on the welcome that was given to the Pak PM. Watch: Will Afghanistan's allegation affect Imran Khan's US visit? Khan's three-day visit has already been marred by controversies. Ten members of the US Congress have written to President Donald Trump raising serious concerns over the conversion of religious minorities in the South Asian nation. Meanwhile, right ahead of Khan's meeting with the US President, the Afghan government accused Pakistan of being responsible for the recent Kandahar attack. The Kandahar terror attack, alleges Afghanistan, was planned in Chaman in Pakistan. Twelve people were killed in the attack which was claimed by the Taliban. India has long accused Pakistan of using terror as a state policy to foment trouble - a sentiment which has been echoed by Kabul in recent years. Khan is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. He will be accompanied by General Bajwa and lieutenant General Hameed.

Ahead of much-awaited Trump-Khan meeting, row erupts on Washington's welcome accorded to Pakistan PM 

Iran's top diplomat said on Sunday that only "prudence and foresight" could alleviate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-warship-warned-iranian-forces-against-seizing-tanker-237484">tensions between his country and Britain</a> after Tehran's seizure of a British-flagged oil tanker.

"Having failed to lure @realDonaldTrump into War of the Century, and fearing collapse of his #B_Team, @AmbJohnBolton is turning his venom against the UK in hopes of dragging it into a quagmire," Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter.

"Only prudence and foresight can thwart such ploys."

Britain has called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-probe-into-seized-ship-depends-on-crew-cooperation-237435">Iran's capture of the Stena Impero</a> in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday a "hostile act". Tehran for weeks has vowed to retaliate for the seizure of its Grace 1 oil tanker by British forces for violating European Union sanctions on Syria.

Britain needs to contain "those domestic political forces who want to escalate existing tension between Iran and the UK well beyond the issue of ships," Iran's envoy to Britain Hamid Baeidinejad said on Twitter.

"This is quite dangerous and unwise at a sensitive time in the region," he said, adding that Iran "is firm and ready for different scenarios."

Britain's junior defence minister Tobias Ellwood did not rule out the possibility of targeting Tehran with sanctions in response.

"Our first and most important responsibility is to make sure that we get a solution to the issue to do with the current ship, make sure other British-flagged ships are safe to operate in these waters and then look at the wider picture," Ellwood told Sky News.

Asked about the possibility of sanctions, he said: "We are going to be looking at a series of options ...We will be speaking with our colleagues, our international allies, to see what can actually be done."

Tehran's seizure of the Stena Impero followed the July 4 capture by Royal Marines of the Grace 1 tanker carrying Iranian oil near Gibraltar.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Saturday said Tehran's actions showed "worrying signs Iran may be choosing a dangerous path of illegal and destabilising behaviour after Gibraltar’s legal detention of oil bound for Syria."

All crew safe

In a letter to the UN&nbsp;Security Council, Britain said the Stena Impero was approached by Iranian forces in Omani territorial waters where it was exercising its lawful right of passage, and that the action "constitutes illegal interference."

British warship HMS Montrose radioed an Iranian patrol vessel to warn it against boarding the Stena Impero, according to radio messages provided to Reuters by maritime security firm Dryad Global.

Iran said the seized tanker "risked maritime safety" in the Strait of Hormuz, through which almost a fifth of the world's annual oil consumption passes.

"We are required by regulations to investigate the issue ... the duration of the investigation depends on the level of cooperation by the involved parties," Allahmorad Afifipour, head of Iran's Ports and Maritime Organisation in Hormozgan Province, told state TV.

He added that all 23 crew members aboard the ship are "safe and in good health in Bandar Abbas port".

The vessel's Sweden-based owner, Stena Bulk, said it hoped to visit the crew, who are from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. India has called on Iran to release the ship's 18 Indian crew members.

Tehran for weeks has vowed to retaliate for the seizure of the Grace 1 tanker by British forces.

"The Revolutionary Guards responded to Britain's hijacking of the Iranian tanker," parliament speaker Ali Larijani told a parliament session aired live on state radio.

Waivers

Iran is feeling the pressure of US&nbsp;sanctions imposed on its banks and oil exports by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump last year after he pulled the United States out of a 2015 international pact with Iran designed to curb Tehran's nuclear program.

US&nbsp;waivers which allowed eight countries to keep buying Iranian oil - China, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey - expired on May 2.

"The export of oil is one of the issues in which we have limitations and the US&nbsp;and its allies have caused restrictions for us and we have to be sensitive," Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh said, state media reported on Sunday.

He said the country's oil exports had not been impacted so far by the recent tanker incidents in the Gulf.

Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if it cannot export its oil because of the sanctions but cannot legally do so as part of the waterway is in Oman’s territorial waters.

Ships using the Strait also pass through Iranian waters, which are patrolled by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy.

Oman has urged Iran to release the tanker and called on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve differences diplomatically, state broadcaster Oman TV News reported.

"Iran is displaying its power without entering a military confrontation. This is the result of America's mounting pressure on Iran," said an Iranian official, who asked not to be identified.

Iran's top diplomat said on Sunday that only "prudence and foresight" could alleviate tensions between his country and Britain after Tehran's seizure of a British-flagged oil tanker.

Iran's top diplomat said on Sunday that only "prudence and foresight" could alleviate tensions between his country and Britain after Tehran's seizure of a British-flagged oil tanker. "Having failed to lure @realDonaldTrump into War of the Century, and fearing collapse of his #B_Team, @AmbJohnBolton is turning his venom against the UK in hopes of dragging it into a quagmire," Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter. "Only prudence and foresight can thwart such ploys." Britain has called Iran's capture of the Stena Impero in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday a "hostile act". Tehran for weeks has vowed to retaliate for the seizure of its Grace 1 oil tanker by British forces for violating European Union sanctions on Syria. Britain needs to contain "those domestic political forces who want to escalate existing tension between Iran and the UK well beyond the issue of ships," Iran's envoy to Britain Hamid Baeidinejad said on Twitter. "This is quite dangerous and unwise at a sensitive time in the region," he said, adding that Iran "is firm and ready for different scenarios." Britain's junior defence minister Tobias Ellwood did not rule out the possibility of targeting Tehran with sanctions in response. "Our first and most important responsibility is to make sure that we get a solution to the issue to do with the current ship, make sure other British-flagged ships are safe to operate in these waters and then look at the wider picture," Ellwood told Sky News. Asked about the possibility of sanctions, he said: "We are going to be looking at a series of options ...We will be speaking with our colleagues, our international allies, to see what can actually be done." Tehran's seizure of the Stena Impero followed the July 4 capture by Royal Marines of the Grace 1 tanker carrying Iranian oil near Gibraltar. British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Saturday said Tehran's actions showed "worrying signs Iran may be choosing a dangerous path of illegal and destabilising behaviour after Gibraltar’s legal detention of oil bound for Syria." All crew safe In a letter to the UN Security Council, Britain said the Stena Impero was approached by Iranian forces in Omani territorial waters where it was exercising its lawful right of passage, and that the action "constitutes illegal interference." British warship HMS Montrose radioed an Iranian patrol vessel to warn it against boarding the Stena Impero, according to radio messages provided to Reuters by maritime security firm Dryad Global. Iran said the seized tanker "risked maritime safety" in the Strait of Hormuz, through which almost a fifth of the world's annual oil consumption passes. "We are required by regulations to investigate the issue ... the duration of the investigation depends on the level of cooperation by the involved parties," Allahmorad Afifipour, head of Iran's Ports and Maritime Organisation in Hormozgan Province, told state TV. He added that all 23 crew members aboard the ship are "safe and in good health in Bandar Abbas port". The vessel's Sweden-based owner, Stena Bulk, said it hoped to visit the crew, who are from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. India has called on Iran to release the ship's 18 Indian crew members. Tehran for weeks has vowed to retaliate for the seizure of the Grace 1 tanker by British forces. "The Revolutionary Guards responded to Britain's hijacking of the Iranian tanker," parliament speaker Ali Larijani told a parliament session aired live on state radio. Waivers Iran is feeling the pressure of US sanctions imposed on its banks and oil exports by US President Donald Trump last year after he pulled the United States out of a 2015 international pact with Iran designed to curb Tehran's nuclear program. US waivers which allowed eight countries to keep buying Iranian oil - China, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey - expired on May 2. "The export of oil is one of the issues in which we have limitations and the US and its allies have caused restrictions for us and we have to be sensitive," Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh said, state media reported on Sunday. He said the country's oil exports had not been impacted so far by the recent tanker incidents in the Gulf. Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if it cannot export its oil because of the sanctions but cannot legally do so as part of the waterway is in Oman’s territorial waters. Ships using the Strait also pass through Iranian waters, which are patrolled by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy. Oman has urged Iran to release the tanker and called on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve differences diplomatically, state broadcaster Oman TV News reported. "Iran is displaying its power without entering a military confrontation. This is the result of America's mounting pressure on Iran," said an Iranian official, who asked not to be identified.

Iran's Zarif calls for 'prudence and foresight' as tensions mount with UK

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-cricketer-like-ms-dhoni-knows-when-to-retire-says-msk-prasad-237485">Former captain of the Indian cricket team Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> will be able to train with the Indian Army's paramilitary regiment as his request has been approved by General Bipin Rawat, news agency ANI reported citing top Army sources.&nbsp;

Dhoni is expected to train with the Parachute Regiment battalion.&nbsp;

While some part of his training is expected to take place in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army has made clear that Dhoni will not be allowed to be part of any active operation, ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Top Army Sources: MS Dhoni’s request to train with the Indian Army has been approved by General Bipin Rawat. He would train with the Parachute Regiment battalion. Some part of the training is also expected to take place in J&amp;K. Army won't allow Dhoni to be part of any active Op. <a href="https://t.co/jMCHExc9JS">pic.twitter.com/jMCHExc9JS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1152953133980684289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, intense speculation seems to have built around his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

Dhoni, who quit playing the Test format in 2014, has opted out of the upcoming Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment.&nbsp;

Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment.&nbsp;

Former captain of the Indian cricket team Mahendra Singh Dhoni will be able to train with the Indian Army's paramilitary regiment as his request has been approved by General Bipin Rawat, news agency ANI reported citing top Army sources.

Former captain of the Indian cricket team Mahendra Singh Dhoni will be able to train with the Indian Army's paramilitary regiment as his request has been approved by General Bipin Rawat, news agency ANI reported citing top Army sources. Dhoni is expected to train with the Parachute Regiment battalion. While some part of his training is expected to take place in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army has made clear that Dhoni will not be allowed to be part of any active operation, ANI reported. Top Army Sources: MS Dhoni’s request to train with the Indian Army has been approved by General Bipin Rawat. He would train with the Parachute Regiment battalion. Some part of the training is also expected to take place in J&K. Army won't allow Dhoni to be part of any active Op. pic.twitter.com/jMCHExc9JS — ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2019 × Meanwhile, intense speculation seems to have built around his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. Dhoni, who quit playing the Test format in 2014, has opted out of the upcoming Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment. Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment.

MS Dhoni to train with paramilitary regiment, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat approves request

Two independent Karnataka MLAs on Sunday moved the Supreme Court seeking a direction to conclude a floor test in the state Assembly on Monday before 5 pm.Two lawmakers - H Nagesh and R Shankar - have made Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and the Central government as the respondents in their petition.

The petition moved through advocate Diksha Rai has sought the enforcement of their fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which the petitioners allege are being "violated with impunity".

The petitioners have submitted that a minority government, which does not have the confidence of the majority, is being allowed to continue in office.

"It is submitted that the actions of the respondents are leading to a Constitutional crisis in the state of Karnataka," the plea stated.

"The intention of the government is to delay the trust vote and indulge in horse-trading and defections from the BJP in the meanwhile," the plea submitted.

"It is submitted that this court may be pleased to intervene to uphold the rule of law and constitutional democracy," said the petition.

The independent MLAs have stated that "irreparable harm and injury" will be caused to them if the interim relief prayed for is not granted by the court.

On July 19, the Karnataka Assembly failed to meet two deadlines set by Governor Vajubhai Vala to complete the trust vote, after Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy challenged the directive.

The trust vote is now scheduled for Monday.The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government slumped into a minority earlier this month following the resignations of 16 dissident MLAs from the cabinet.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113. 
&nbsp;

Two independent Karnataka MLAs on Sunday moved the Supreme Court seeking a direction to conclude a floor test in the state Assembly on Monday before 5 pm.Two lawmakers - H Nagesh and R Shankar - have made Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and the Central government as the respondents in their petition.

Two independent Karnataka MLAs on Sunday moved the Supreme Court seeking a direction to conclude a floor test in the state Assembly on Monday before 5 pm.Two lawmakers - H Nagesh and R Shankar - have made Karnataka Assembly Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and the Central government as the respondents in their petition. The petition moved through advocate Diksha Rai has sought the enforcement of their fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which the petitioners allege are being "violated with impunity". The petitioners have submitted that a minority government, which does not have the confidence of the majority, is being allowed to continue in office. "It is submitted that the actions of the respondents are leading to a Constitutional crisis in the state of Karnataka," the plea stated. "The intention of the government is to delay the trust vote and indulge in horse-trading and defections from the BJP in the meanwhile," the plea submitted. "It is submitted that this court may be pleased to intervene to uphold the rule of law and constitutional democracy," said the petition. The independent MLAs have stated that "irreparable harm and injury" will be caused to them if the interim relief prayed for is not granted by the court. On July 19, the Karnataka Assembly failed to meet two deadlines set by Governor Vajubhai Vala to complete the trust vote, after Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy challenged the directive. The trust vote is now scheduled for Monday.The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government slumped into a minority earlier this month following the resignations of 16 dissident MLAs from the cabinet. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

Karnataka crisis: Two independent MLAs move Supreme Court seeking floor test to be concluded on Monday before 5 pm

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively.

According to SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting), the air quality in the city is in the moderate category with an index value of 101.

The heavy downpour also caused water-logging and traffic snarls in several parts of the city.

Skymet in a tweet said, "Light to moderate spell of rain and thundershowers will occur at many places over North Delhi, Central Delhi, parts of South Delhi and North West Delhi during the next 2-3 hours."

Besides Delhi, IMD has also predicted extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala and Mahe.

It has also predicted thunderstorm accompanied with lightning very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim.

The weather body has also advised fisherman not to venture out in sea due to rough sea conditions over south Bay of Bengal and southwest and central Arabian Sea.&nbsp;

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively.

Rains lashed parts of the national capital on Sunday afternoon, bringing respite to people from heat and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over Delhi and adjoining areas on Sunday evening with the possibility of maximum temperatures settling at 27 degree Celsius and 37 degree Celsius respectively. According to SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting), the air quality in the city is in the moderate category with an index value of 101. The heavy downpour also caused water-logging and traffic snarls in several parts of the city. Skymet in a tweet said, "Light to moderate spell of rain and thundershowers will occur at many places over North Delhi, Central Delhi, parts of South Delhi and North West Delhi during the next 2-3 hours." Besides Delhi, IMD has also predicted extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala and Mahe. It has also predicted thunderstorm accompanied with lightning very likely at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim. The weather body has also advised fisherman not to venture out in sea due to rough sea conditions over south Bay of Bengal and southwest and central Arabian Sea.

Rain lashes parts of Delhi, temperature dips to 27 degrees

Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Sunday expressed sorrow at the demise of his younger brother and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) MP Ram Chandra Paswan, saying that he was more like a son to him.

An emotional Ram Vilas told media, "He was like my son. Even though he was my dear younger brother, I never regarded him as one. He was more like a son to me."

"We will go to Patna tomorrow by flight at 9:30 am. The cremation will take place in Patna on tomorrow evening," said Paswan.

Ram Chandra Paswan passed away at RML Hospital here on Sunday.

LJP MP Chirag Paswan, son of Ram Vilas Paswan, tweeted, "With great sadness, I inform you that my uncle Ram Chandra Paswan is no longer with us. He took his last breath at around 1:24 pm at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi."

Ram Chandra Paswan, 57, had suffered a massive heart attack on Thursday and was admitted to the hospital.

Condoling the death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter, "Shri Ram Chandra Paswan Ji worked tirelessly for the poor and downtrodden. At every forum, he spoke unequivocally for the rights of farmers and youngsters. His social service efforts were noteworthy. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti."

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also mourned the LJP MP's "untimely demise" and announced that the last rites would be performed with the state honours.

"Ramchandra Paswan was a good leader and well known social reformer. He was simple, sociable and very popular in his constituency. His demise is an irreplaceable loss for both society and politics. His last rites will be performed with the state honours," Kumar said in the statement.&nbsp;

Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Sunday expressed sorrow at the demise of his younger brother and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) MP Ram Chandra Paswan, saying that he was more like a son to him.

Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Sunday expressed sorrow at the demise of his younger brother and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) MP Ram Chandra Paswan, saying that he was more like a son to him. An emotional Ram Vilas told media, "He was like my son. Even though he was my dear younger brother, I never regarded him as one. He was more like a son to me." "We will go to Patna tomorrow by flight at 9:30 am. The cremation will take place in Patna on tomorrow evening," said Paswan. Ram Chandra Paswan passed away at RML Hospital here on Sunday. LJP MP Chirag Paswan, son of Ram Vilas Paswan, tweeted, "With great sadness, I inform you that my uncle Ram Chandra Paswan is no longer with us. He took his last breath at around 1:24 pm at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi." Ram Chandra Paswan, 57, had suffered a massive heart attack on Thursday and was admitted to the hospital. Condoling the death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter, "Shri Ram Chandra Paswan Ji worked tirelessly for the poor and downtrodden. At every forum, he spoke unequivocally for the rights of farmers and youngsters. His social service efforts were noteworthy. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti." Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also mourned the LJP MP's "untimely demise" and announced that the last rites would be performed with the state honours. "Ramchandra Paswan was a good leader and well known social reformer. He was simple, sociable and very popular in his constituency. His demise is an irreplaceable loss for both society and politics. His last rites will be performed with the state honours," Kumar said in the statement.

'He was more like son to me,' says Ram Vilas Paswan on younger brother's demise

Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi on Sunday visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat in the state.Mukhi was joined by Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya.

He also visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat High School and Dipholu LP School to take stock of the condition of the flood-affected victims and ensure that all relief materials and health facilities are being provided to them.

Senior police and other officials of the district authority accompanied them to the camps.Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal had on Saturday said that the state government was doing everything possible to provide relief to those affected by floods across the state.

"Assam government is doing everything to provide relief to people affected by floods in the state... All state Cabinet ministers and our MPs and MLAs are meeting the people affected by floods in the state and helping them out," Sonowal told media.

"On behalf of the people of Assam, I want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for helping the state government in this matter. Also, I want to thank Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for visiting Assam and helping the people," he added.

According to the State Disaster Management Authority, close to 50 people have lost their lives in the state due to incessant rains and related incidents.Rivers such as the Brahmaputra at Neamatighat in Jorhat, Guwahati (Kamrup), Goalpara and Dhubri; Dhansiri at Numaligarh in Golaghat; Jia Bharali at NT Rd Xing in Sonitpur and Kopili at Dharamtul in Nagaon are flowing at danger levels in the state.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi on Sunday visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat in the state.Mukhi was joined by Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya. He also visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat High School and Dipholu LP School to take stock of the condition of the flood-affected victims and ensure that all relief materials and health facilities are being provided to them.

Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi on Sunday visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat in the state.Mukhi was joined by Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya. He also visited flood relief camps in Bokakhat High School and Dipholu LP School to take stock of the condition of the flood-affected victims and ensure that all relief materials and health facilities are being provided to them. Senior police and other officials of the district authority accompanied them to the camps.Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal had on Saturday said that the state government was doing everything possible to provide relief to those affected by floods across the state. "Assam government is doing everything to provide relief to people affected by floods in the state... All state Cabinet ministers and our MPs and MLAs are meeting the people affected by floods in the state and helping them out," Sonowal told media. "On behalf of the people of Assam, I want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for helping the state government in this matter. Also, I want to thank Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for visiting Assam and helping the people," he added. According to the State Disaster Management Authority, close to 50 people have lost their lives in the state due to incessant rains and related incidents.Rivers such as the Brahmaputra at Neamatighat in Jorhat, Guwahati (Kamrup), Goalpara and Dhubri; Dhansiri at Numaligarh in Golaghat; Jia Bharali at NT Rd Xing in Sonitpur and Kopili at Dharamtul in Nagaon are flowing at danger levels in the state.

Assam: Governor Jagdish Mukhi visits flood relief camps in Bokakhat

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