Indian oil-to-telecoms conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd posted another record quarterly profit on Friday, as double-digit growth at its consumer-facing businesses cushioned weakness in its energy divisions.

Revenue at its retail and telecoms units each jumped more than 25 per cent in the December quarter as the company, headed by Asia's richest man, Mukesh Ambani, invests heavily to bring them on par with its dominant petrochemicals and refining businesses.

"We saw consistent same-store sales growth and record footfall across our stores," Ambani said in a statement, with the remarks coming when growth in Asia's third-largest economy has slowed to multi-year lows.

The Mumbai-headquartered company has rapidly grown to become India's largest retailer with over 10,000 stores selling groceries, consumer electronics and apparel, while its telecom unit, Jio, has become the country's largest wireless operator in about three years since launch.

Profit at Jio surged 62 per cent to 13.50 billion rupees, led by subscriber additions of 14.8 million during the reported quarter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/day-after-supreme-court-verdict-vodafone-stocks-crash-to-record-low-274874">Day after Supreme Court verdict, Vodafone stocks crash to record low</a>

Reliance, which runs the world's biggest oil refining complex, said gross refining margin - the profit earned on each barrel of crude oil processed - was $9.2 per barrel, slightly lower than the prior quarter but better than a year earlier.

"The third-quarter results for our energy business reflect the weak global economic environment and volatility in energy markets," Ambani, the company's chairman, said.

Meanwhile, the proposed purchase of 20 per cent in Reliance's oil-to-chemicals arm by Saudi Aramco will take a "few months" to be finalized, Joint Chief Financial Officer V Srikanth said at a press briefing, adding Reliance wouldn't comment on a specific timeframe for the deal to close.

"We are making very good progress, and there is engagement across teams which is very intense," Srikanth said of the deal, which would be one of the largest ever foreign investments in India.

The company had previously said it would sign a definitive agreement with Aramco by March 2020.

The weak performance at the petrochem and refining unit led to a 2.5 per cent drop in revenue from operations to 1.57 trillion rupees.

Still, Chief Financial Officer Alok Agarwal said 2020 would be a "better year from a global growth point of view", which should help boost margins in the refining and petrochemicals units.

Consolidated net profit rose 13.5 per cent to 116.40 billion rupees ($1.64 billion) in the three months to December&nbsp;31, above the previous quarter's record and also beating analysts' average forecast of 114.32 billion rupees, according to Refinitiv data.

Indian oil-to-telecoms conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd posted another record quarterly profit on Friday, as double-digit growth at its consumer-facing businesses cushioned weakness in its energy divisions.

Indian oil-to-telecoms conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd posted another record quarterly profit on Friday, as double-digit growth at its consumer-facing businesses cushioned weakness in its energy divisions. Revenue at its retail and telecoms units each jumped more than 25 per cent in the December quarter as the company, headed by Asia's richest man, Mukesh Ambani, invests heavily to bring them on par with its dominant petrochemicals and refining businesses. "We saw consistent same-store sales growth and record footfall across our stores," Ambani said in a statement, with the remarks coming when growth in Asia's third-largest economy has slowed to multi-year lows. The Mumbai-headquartered company has rapidly grown to become India's largest retailer with over 10,000 stores selling groceries, consumer electronics and apparel, while its telecom unit, Jio, has become the country's largest wireless operator in about three years since launch. Profit at Jio surged 62 per cent to 13.50 billion rupees, led by subscriber additions of 14.8 million during the reported quarter. Also read: Day after Supreme Court verdict, Vodafone stocks crash to record low Reliance, which runs the world's biggest oil refining complex, said gross refining margin - the profit earned on each barrel of crude oil processed - was $9.2 per barrel, slightly lower than the prior quarter but better than a year earlier. "The third-quarter results for our energy business reflect the weak global economic environment and volatility in energy markets," Ambani, the company's chairman, said. Meanwhile, the proposed purchase of 20 per cent in Reliance's oil-to-chemicals arm by Saudi Aramco will take a "few months" to be finalized, Joint Chief Financial Officer V Srikanth said at a press briefing, adding Reliance wouldn't comment on a specific timeframe for the deal to close. "We are making very good progress, and there is engagement across teams which is very intense," Srikanth said of the deal, which would be one of the largest ever foreign investments in India. The company had previously said it would sign a definitive agreement with Aramco by March 2020. The weak performance at the petrochem and refining unit led to a 2.5 per cent drop in revenue from operations to 1.57 trillion rupees. Still, Chief Financial Officer Alok Agarwal said 2020 would be a "better year from a global growth point of view", which should help boost margins in the refining and petrochemicals units. Consolidated net profit rose 13.5 per cent to 116.40 billion rupees ($1.64 billion) in the three months to December 31, above the previous quarter's record and also beating analysts' average forecast of 114.32 billion rupees, according to Refinitiv data.

Mukesh Ambani's Reliance posts record profit on consumer strength

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday said that the state will join Kerala and move Supreme Court on the Citizenship Amendment Act issue.&nbsp;

Punjab Assembly has already passed a resolution against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

"We have sent a draft to Centre to make changes necessary to make CAA acceptable to everyone. Census is being carried out now, It will be done on old level. Every citizen will be counted whether he is Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian or anybody," the Chief Minister said today.&nbsp;

"We are going to join Kerala in Supreme Court on this issue," he added.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government has already moved the apex court on the matter and had passed a resolution on the same.&nbsp;

Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Thursday described the state government's move to go to the Supreme Court over Citizenship Amendment Act as a <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/breach-of-protocol-kerala-governor-fumes-after-state-government-moves-supreme-court-over-caa-274651">'breach' of protocol</a>.&nbsp;

Khan said that the government should have at least taken his approval or informed him before moving the top court. He added that he got to know about Pinarayi Vijayan-led government's move only through media reports.&nbsp;

On Friday, Khan said that he will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-governor-to-seek-report-from-state-government-for-moving-sc-against-citizenship-act-274910">seek a report in connection</a> to the matter from the state government.

The new citizenship law seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday said that the state will join Kerala and move Supreme Court on the Citizenship Amendment Act issue. Punjab Assembly has already passed a resolution against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday said that the state will join Kerala and move Supreme Court on the Citizenship Amendment Act issue. Punjab Assembly has already passed a resolution against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). "We have sent a draft to Centre to make changes necessary to make CAA acceptable to everyone. Census is being carried out now, It will be done on old level. Every citizen will be counted whether he is Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian or anybody," the Chief Minister said today. "We are going to join Kerala in Supreme Court on this issue," he added. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government has already moved the apex court on the matter and had passed a resolution on the same. Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Thursday described the state government's move to go to the Supreme Court over Citizenship Amendment Act as a 'breach' of protocol. Khan said that the government should have at least taken his approval or informed him before moving the top court. He added that he got to know about Pinarayi Vijayan-led government's move only through media reports. On Friday, Khan said that he will seek a report in connection to the matter from the state government. The new citizenship law seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Will join Kerala in Supreme Court over Citizenship Amendment Act: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh 

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Friday hit out at Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating constitutional norms after the State government approached the Supreme Court against the new citizenship law and said he will seek a report in connection to the matter.

The Governor also said that his duty is to ensure that the constitutional machinery does not collapse in the state.

"The role of the Governor is clearly spelt out in the oath which is prescribed by the Constitution. I shall preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and law and shall devote myself to service and welfare of the people of Kerala," Khan told reporters.

He read out the clause of Rule of Business and said he was informed about the state government's decision to move the Supreme Court challenging the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/breach-of-protocol-kerala-governor-fumes-after-state-government-moves-supreme-court-over-caa-274651">Kerala Governor fumes after state government moves Supreme Court over CAA</a>

"My role is to see the business of the government is transacted in accordance with the Constitution. I am there to ensure that the Constitution is respected and followed in letter and spirit," Khan said, adding he was not claiming supremacy and that no one is above the law.

"I was not even informed that the government is going to challenge a Central law which is none of the concern of the State government. The CAA is a subject of the Central list as specified in the Constitution," he said.

The Governor further said, "The government cannot issue any order without the approval of the Governor. If the government wants to issue an order to go to the Supreme Court, they should first seek approval from the Governor. The Rule of Business is clear. My duty is to ensure that the constitutional machinery is not collapsed."

Khan later told ANI that there are no differences between him and the Kerala government.

"There are no differences between us. It is my responsibility to ensure that things do not reach a stage where there is a collapse of the constitutional machinery," he said.

The Vijayan-led government has moved the top court against the new citizenship law alleging it violates the basic principle of secularism.

The Kerala Assembly had also passed a resolution seeking withdrawal of the CAA that grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. 
&nbsp;

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Friday hit out at Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating constitutional norms after the State government approached the Supreme Court against the new citizenship law and said he will seek a report in connection to the matter.

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Friday hit out at Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating constitutional norms after the State government approached the Supreme Court against the new citizenship law and said he will seek a report in connection to the matter. The Governor also said that his duty is to ensure that the constitutional machinery does not collapse in the state. "The role of the Governor is clearly spelt out in the oath which is prescribed by the Constitution. I shall preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and law and shall devote myself to service and welfare of the people of Kerala," Khan told reporters. He read out the clause of Rule of Business and said he was informed about the state government's decision to move the Supreme Court challenging the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Also read: Kerala Governor fumes after state government moves Supreme Court over CAA "My role is to see the business of the government is transacted in accordance with the Constitution. I am there to ensure that the Constitution is respected and followed in letter and spirit," Khan said, adding he was not claiming supremacy and that no one is above the law. "I was not even informed that the government is going to challenge a Central law which is none of the concern of the State government. The CAA is a subject of the Central list as specified in the Constitution," he said. The Governor further said, "The government cannot issue any order without the approval of the Governor. If the government wants to issue an order to go to the Supreme Court, they should first seek approval from the Governor. The Rule of Business is clear. My duty is to ensure that the constitutional machinery is not collapsed." Khan later told ANI that there are no differences between him and the Kerala government. "There are no differences between us. It is my responsibility to ensure that things do not reach a stage where there is a collapse of the constitutional machinery," he said. The Vijayan-led government has moved the top court against the new citizenship law alleging it violates the basic principle of secularism. The Kerala Assembly had also passed a resolution seeking withdrawal of the CAA that grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Kerala Governor to seek report from State government for moving SC against Citizenship Act

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections.

Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini.

Rekha Gupta and Suman Kumar Gupta have been fielded from Shalimar Bagh and Chandni Chowk seats respectively.

The voting in Delhi will be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.

The AAP under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is aiming to retain power in the national capital.

In the 2015 Assembly polls, AAP secured the absolute majority by garnering 67 seats. The BJP managed only three, while the Congress drew a blank.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections. Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections. Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini. Rekha Gupta and Suman Kumar Gupta have been fielded from Shalimar Bagh and Chandni Chowk seats respectively. The voting in Delhi will be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11. The AAP under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is aiming to retain power in the national capital. In the 2015 Assembly polls, AAP secured the absolute majority by garnering 67 seats. The BJP managed only three, while the Congress drew a blank.

Delhi Assembly polls: BJP announces 57 candidates, Kapil Mishra fielded from Model Town

The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to travellers visiting China due to novel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-hospitals-worldwide-as-new-china-coronavirus-may-spread-further-274255">coronavirus outbreak in the country</a>.

A statement released by the health ministry said, "An infection with a novel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-confirmed-in-chinese-traveller-who-arrived-in-thailand-who-274059">coronavirus has been reported from China</a>. Till 11 January, 41 confirmed cases have been reported so far, of which one has died. Only travel-related cases have been reported (one each) in Thailand and Japan. The clinical signs and symptoms are mainly fever with a few patients having difficulty in breathing."

"The mode of transmission is unclear as of now. However, so far there is little evidence of significant human-to-human transmission. Although as per the World Health Organization's risk assessment the risk for global spread has been stated as low, as a matter of abundant precaution," it said.

The Health Ministry has directed travellers to China in particular Wuhan city to monitor their health closely.

"Travelers have been asked to follow simple public health measures and maintain a good standard of hygiene," it added.

The health ministry has advised that if a traveller feels sick on the flight while returning back to India- should inform the airline's crew about the illness, wear the mask, follow the instructions given by the airport officer and not come in close contact with any person.

"Once you reach to India, report the illness to the nearest health facility and also inform the treating doctor regarding your travel history," said the official.&nbsp;

The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to travellers visiting China due to novel coronavirus outbreak in the country. A statement released by the health ministry said, "An infection with a novel coronavirus has been reported from China.

The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to travellers visiting China due to novel coronavirus outbreak in the country. A statement released by the health ministry said, "An infection with a novel coronavirus has been reported from China. Till 11 January, 41 confirmed cases have been reported so far, of which one has died. Only travel-related cases have been reported (one each) in Thailand and Japan. The clinical signs and symptoms are mainly fever with a few patients having difficulty in breathing." "The mode of transmission is unclear as of now. However, so far there is little evidence of significant human-to-human transmission. Although as per the World Health Organization's risk assessment the risk for global spread has been stated as low, as a matter of abundant precaution," it said. The Health Ministry has directed travellers to China in particular Wuhan city to monitor their health closely. "Travelers have been asked to follow simple public health measures and maintain a good standard of hygiene," it added. The health ministry has advised that if a traveller feels sick on the flight while returning back to India- should inform the airline's crew about the illness, wear the mask, follow the instructions given by the airport officer and not come in close contact with any person. "Once you reach to India, report the illness to the nearest health facility and also inform the treating doctor regarding your travel history," said the official.

Amidst novel coronavirus outbreak in China, Health Ministry issues travel advisory

A Delhi Court on Friday issued a fresh death warrant for the four convicts in the Nirbhaya gangrape case and set a new date for their execution.&nbsp;

The convicts will now be hanged to death on February 1 at 6 am. The convicts were previously supposed to face the gallows on January 22 as per the previous order.&nbsp;

This comes shortly after President Ram Nath <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-rejects-mercy-petition-of-one-of-nirbhaya-case-convicts-274831">Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition</a> of the 2012 Delhi gangrape case convict Mukesh Singh.

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2012 Delhi gang-rape case: A Delhi court issues fresh death warrant for convicts for 1st February, 6 am <a href="https://t.co/hHvXo6Av1d">pic.twitter.com/hHvXo6Av1d</a>
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Ministry of Home Affairs had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said.

The Supreme Court had earlier dismissed curative petitions of the two convicts - Vinay Sharma and Mukesh Singh - who had appealed the death sentence.

On Wednesday, Delhi High Court refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant to Nirbhaya case convicts.

The court asked convict Mukesh's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise the court about the pending mercy plea.

The government in its argument had said they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-court-backs-death-warrant-against-nirbhaya-case-convicts-delhi-govt-says-cannot-be-hanged-on-jan-22-due-to-pending-plea-274422">cannot be hanged on January 22</a> since mercy petition filed by Mukesh Singh was pending and that it was bound by law to wait before moving ahead with the death warrant.&nbsp;

"It can only take place 14 days after the mercy plea is rejected as we are bound by the rule which says that a notice of 14 days must be provided to the convicts after the rejection of mercy plea," advocate Rahul Mehra appearing for Tihar Jail authorities, said.

He further stated that the fate of a death convict comes to finality only after his mercy plea is rejected by the President.

A Delhi Court on Friday issued a fresh death warrant for the four convicts in the Nirbhaya gangrape case and set a new date for their execution. The convicts will now be hanged to death on February 1 at 6 am.

A Delhi Court on Friday issued a fresh death warrant for the four convicts in the Nirbhaya gangrape case and set a new date for their execution. The convicts will now be hanged to death on February 1 at 6 am. The convicts were previously supposed to face the gallows on January 22 as per the previous order. This comes shortly after President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition of the 2012 Delhi gangrape case convict Mukesh Singh. 2012 Delhi gang-rape case: A Delhi court issues fresh death warrant for convicts for 1st February, 6 am pic.twitter.com/hHvXo6Av1d — ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2020 × Ministry of Home Affairs had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said. The Supreme Court had earlier dismissed curative petitions of the two convicts - Vinay Sharma and Mukesh Singh - who had appealed the death sentence. On Wednesday, Delhi High Court refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant to Nirbhaya case convicts. The court asked convict Mukesh's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise the court about the pending mercy plea. The government in its argument had said they cannot be hanged on January 22 since mercy petition filed by Mukesh Singh was pending and that it was bound by law to wait before moving ahead with the death warrant. "It can only take place 14 days after the mercy plea is rejected as we are bound by the rule which says that a notice of 14 days must be provided to the convicts after the rejection of mercy plea," advocate Rahul Mehra appearing for Tihar Jail authorities, said. He further stated that the fate of a death convict comes to finality only after his mercy plea is rejected by the President.

Nirbhaya case: Delhi court issues fresh death warrant, convicts to be hanged on February 1  

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday made a U-turn on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazons-1-billion-investment-in-india-no-big-favour-piyush-goyal-274739">remark that he made on Amazon&nbsp;investment</a> in India yesterday.&nbsp;

Goyal said his statement was misconstrued and added that although the government welcomes all investments but it should adhere to rules and regulations and should not create unfair competition for small traders.&nbsp;

"We welcome all types of investments. But if the foundation of any investment violates law then there will be a legal process. Some people think I said something negative against Amazon. If you look at the context of my statement, I said investment should come within the law and regulations. This process is followed across the world," the minister said.&nbsp;

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"There are some laws regarding eCommerce in India. We welcome investments that come under those laws. But this investment should not create unfair competition to small traders and retail businessmen in India," he said.

On Thursday, Goyal had said that Jeff Bezos-led Amazon has not done India any favour by investing a billion dollars.&nbsp;

"They (Amazon) may have put in a billion dollars but if they make a loss of a billion dollars every year, then jolly well will have to finance that billion dollars. So, it is not as if they are doing a favour to India when they invest a billion dollars," Goyal had said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Bezos on Wednesday announced plans to invest one billion dollars (about Rs 7,092 crore) in India and enabling 10 billion dollars in cumulative exports in the next five years by digitally enabling micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and traders.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday made a U-turn on the remark that he made on Amazon investment in India yesterday. Goyal said his statement was misconstrued and added that although the government welcomes all investments but it should adhere to rules and regulations and should not create unfair competition for small traders.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday made a U-turn on the remark that he made on Amazon investment in India yesterday. Goyal said his statement was misconstrued and added that although the government welcomes all investments but it should adhere to rules and regulations and should not create unfair competition for small traders. "We welcome all types of investments. But if the foundation of any investment violates law then there will be a legal process. Some people think I said something negative against Amazon. If you look at the context of my statement, I said investment should come within the law and regulations. This process is followed across the world," the minister said. × "There are some laws regarding eCommerce in India. We welcome investments that come under those laws. But this investment should not create unfair competition to small traders and retail businessmen in India," he said. On Thursday, Goyal had said that Jeff Bezos-led Amazon has not done India any favour by investing a billion dollars. "They (Amazon) may have put in a billion dollars but if they make a loss of a billion dollars every year, then jolly well will have to finance that billion dollars. So, it is not as if they are doing a favour to India when they invest a billion dollars," Goyal had said on Thursday. Bezos on Wednesday announced plans to invest one billion dollars (about Rs 7,092 crore) in India and enabling 10 billion dollars in cumulative exports in the next five years by digitally enabling micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and traders. (With inputs from ANI)

My statement was misconstrued, government welcomes all investments: Piyush Goyal on Amazon remark 

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours.

"All the work that was under the Delhi government was completed by us within hours. We never delayed any work related to this case. Delhi government hardly has any role in it. We want convicts to be hanged at the earliest," said Kejriwal while speaking to the reporters.

Launching a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party, BJP on Thursday alleged that the negligence of state government was the reason behind the delay of the hanging of the Nirbhaya convicts.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had asserted that AAP is responsible for the delay in justice. On this, Kejriwal said, "He (Prakash Javadekar) is playing politics. Such matters should not be seen as politically. What is our role in this? We do not have the police, neither we have the law and order in our hands. We only send files from here and there."

Kejriwal's statement came after President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case convict Mukesh Singh.

One of the convicts of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, Mukesh's mercy plea has been rejected by President Kovind, MHA has received the communication in this regard, sources said.

The MHA had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said. Earlier, Mukesh Singh, one of the four convicts in the gang-rape and murder of a paramedic student in 2012, had informed the Delhi High Court that his mercy petition is pending before the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the President of India and he should be given a minimum 14 days notice between the rejection of his mercy petition and scheduled date of execution.

The Delhi High Court has refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant.

The court had asked the convict's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise about the pending mercy plea.

The four convicts were sentenced to death for raping a 23-year-old woman in a moving bus in the national capital on the intervening night of December 16-17, 2012.

The victim, who was later given the name Nirbhaya, had succumbed to injuries at a hospital in Singapore where she had been airlifted for medical treatment.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours. "All the work that was under the Delhi government was completed by us within hours. We never delayed any work related to this case. Delhi government hardly has any role in it. We want convicts to be hanged at the earliest," said Kejriwal while speaking to the reporters. Launching a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party, BJP on Thursday alleged that the negligence of state government was the reason behind the delay of the hanging of the Nirbhaya convicts. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had asserted that AAP is responsible for the delay in justice. On this, Kejriwal said, "He (Prakash Javadekar) is playing politics. Such matters should not be seen as politically. What is our role in this? We do not have the police, neither we have the law and order in our hands. We only send files from here and there." Kejriwal's statement came after President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case convict Mukesh Singh. One of the convicts of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, Mukesh's mercy plea has been rejected by President Kovind, MHA has received the communication in this regard, sources said. The MHA had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said. Earlier, Mukesh Singh, one of the four convicts in the gang-rape and murder of a paramedic student in 2012, had informed the Delhi High Court that his mercy petition is pending before the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the President of India and he should be given a minimum 14 days notice between the rejection of his mercy petition and scheduled date of execution. The Delhi High Court has refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant. The court had asked the convict's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise about the pending mercy plea. The four convicts were sentenced to death for raping a 23-year-old woman in a moving bus in the national capital on the intervening night of December 16-17, 2012. The victim, who was later given the name Nirbhaya, had succumbed to injuries at a hospital in Singapore where she had been airlifted for medical treatment.

Delhi government never delayed any work related to 2012 Delhi gang-rape case: Kejriwal

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains.

The NSE <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-settle-near-record-highs-after-us-china-trade-deal-274691">Nifty 50 Index</a> ended 0.1 per cent&nbsp;higher at 12,355.5, while the S&amp;P BSE&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-close-at-record-highs-274225">Sensex&nbsp;index</a> settled 0.14 per cent higher at 41,932.56. The Nifty and&nbsp;Sensex&nbsp;had earlier in the day hit record highs of 12,389.05 and 42,059.45, respectively.

Automaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-gains-by-321-points-as-nifty-closes-on-high-record-tata-motors-on-top-winner-271672">Eicher Motors Ltd</a> was the top gainer on the Nifty, climbing 4.42 per cent&nbsp;on its best day in three months.

Nestle India Ltd, the maker of Maggi noodles and Kit-Kat chocolates, rose 3.33 per cent&nbsp;to an all-time closing high.

The Nifty Metal Index fell 1.25 per cent&nbsp;and weighed on the benchmark indexes, as a number of sore spots in the Sino-US&nbsp;deal left investors worried that the pact would not substantially boost metals demand.

Gas marketing company <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-jumps-634-points-as-us-iran-tensions-ease-auto-and-realty-stocks-gain-273229">GAIL</a> (India) Ltd fell 2.2 per cent&nbsp;and was the biggest percentage loser on the Nifty.

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains.

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains. The NSE Nifty 50 Index ended 0.1 per cent higher at 12,355.5, while the S&P BSE Sensex index settled 0.14 per cent higher at 41,932.56. The Nifty and Sensex had earlier in the day hit record highs of 12,389.05 and 42,059.45, respectively. Automaker Eicher Motors Ltd was the top gainer on the Nifty, climbing 4.42 per cent on its best day in three months. Nestle India Ltd, the maker of Maggi noodles and Kit-Kat chocolates, rose 3.33 per cent to an all-time closing high. The Nifty Metal Index fell 1.25 per cent and weighed on the benchmark indexes, as a number of sore spots in the Sino-US deal left investors worried that the pact would not substantially boost metals demand. Gas marketing company GAIL (India) Ltd fell 2.2 per cent and was the biggest percentage loser on the Nifty.

Nifty, Sensex settle near record highs after US-China trade deal

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions.&nbsp;

Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay&nbsp;Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-is-china-the-only-thorn-in-india-russia-ties-274835">Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?</a>

The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome.&nbsp;

On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-ties-with-new-delhi-second-to-none-russian-envoy-to-india-273759">Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India</a>

"Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said.&nbsp;

The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions.&nbsp;

"If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.&nbsp;

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned.

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council". Also read: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties? The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome. On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space". Also read: Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India "Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said. The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions. "If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.

Russia supports India, says Moscow isn't in favour of Kashmir being discussed at United Nations 

The European Union will check to see whether a major <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-markets-scale-a-new-high-after-us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-274665">deal struck by the United States and China</a> complies with global trade rules, the EU's trade chief said on Thursday.

On Wednesday, Washington and Beijing scaled back their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/key-elements-of-the-us-china-trade-deal-a-pact-to-pause-the-economic-conflict-274516">18-month trade row</a> that has hit global economic growth by signing an initial agreement under which China will boost its buying of US&nbsp;goods and services.

"The devil is in the detail," EU Trade Commissioner Phil Hogan told a conference in London, speaking by video link from Washington where he is meeting US&nbsp;officials this week. He added the details were, so far, "a bit sketchy".

"They have stepped outside the usual framework for doing deals ... and they are dealing directly on a bilateral basis and we will have to assess whether it is WTO compliant."

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-china-trade-deal-biggest-winners-losers-in-phase-1-274683">US-China trade deal - Biggest winners &amp; losers in phase 1</a>

Hogan said "structural reforms" in China the EU and the United States wanted were not addressed in the agreement and the EU wanted to see what was on the table in the second phase of negotiations between the United States and China.

He also said the United States and the EU urgently needed to resolve a dispute over aircraft subsidies. Only Beijing and the Chinese aerospace industry, he said, would ultimately benefit from a tit-for-tat transatlantic tariff dispute.

Asked about a US-French row over a digital tax which has seen Washington threaten to impose duties of up to 100% on French goods, Hogan said he thought eventually a way of implementing a global tax on technology giants such as Amazon and Google would be found.

"At the end of the day I think everybody accepts, including the United States, that there will be a global tax to deal with technology companies," he said, adding that it might take until 2021 or 2022 for talks to deepen.

On long-delayed reform of the World Trade Organization, Hogan said he expected the United States to move forward only in 2021 after the presidential election in November this year.

He also reiterated comments by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last week who said it will be impossible for Britain to negotiate all aspects of its future relationship with the EU by the end of 2020, the deadline set by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and both sides would have to prioritise.

"We need to wake up to this reality that gamesmanship and brinkmanship are not going to work on this occasion," Hogan said at the CSIS think tank in Washington.

The European Union will check to see whether a major deal struck by the United States and China complies with global trade rules, the EU's trade chief said on Thursday.

The European Union will check to see whether a major deal struck by the United States and China complies with global trade rules, the EU's trade chief said on Thursday. On Wednesday, Washington and Beijing scaled back their 18-month trade row that has hit global economic growth by signing an initial agreement under which China will boost its buying of US goods and services. "The devil is in the detail," EU Trade Commissioner Phil Hogan told a conference in London, speaking by video link from Washington where he is meeting US officials this week. He added the details were, so far, "a bit sketchy". "They have stepped outside the usual framework for doing deals ... and they are dealing directly on a bilateral basis and we will have to assess whether it is WTO compliant." In pics: US-China trade deal - Biggest winners & losers in phase 1 Hogan said "structural reforms" in China the EU and the United States wanted were not addressed in the agreement and the EU wanted to see what was on the table in the second phase of negotiations between the United States and China. He also said the United States and the EU urgently needed to resolve a dispute over aircraft subsidies. Only Beijing and the Chinese aerospace industry, he said, would ultimately benefit from a tit-for-tat transatlantic tariff dispute. Asked about a US-French row over a digital tax which has seen Washington threaten to impose duties of up to 100% on French goods, Hogan said he thought eventually a way of implementing a global tax on technology giants such as Amazon and Google would be found. "At the end of the day I think everybody accepts, including the United States, that there will be a global tax to deal with technology companies," he said, adding that it might take until 2021 or 2022 for talks to deepen. On long-delayed reform of the World Trade Organization, Hogan said he expected the United States to move forward only in 2021 after the presidential election in November this year. He also reiterated comments by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last week who said it will be impossible for Britain to negotiate all aspects of its future relationship with the EU by the end of 2020, the deadline set by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and both sides would have to prioritise. "We need to wake up to this reality that gamesmanship and brinkmanship are not going to work on this occasion," Hogan said at the CSIS think tank in Washington.

'Devil is in the detail': EU says will check US-China deal

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-knew-exactly-what-was-going-on-giuliani-associate-on-ukraine-row-274734">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office.

The Democratic-led House of Representatives on Wednesday sent the Senate two charges it passed last month accusing Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress arising from his dealings with Ukraine, clearing the way for only the third impeachment trial of a president to begin in earnest next week.

The abuse of power cited by the House included Trump's withholding of $391 million in security aid for Ukraine, a move Democrats have said was aimed at pressuring Kiev into investigating political rival Joe Biden, the Republican president's possible Democratic opponent in the November&nbsp;3 US&nbsp;election.

"Faithful execution of the law does not permit the President to substitute his own policy priorities for those that Congress has enacted into law," the Government Accountability Office (GAO) concluded, referring to the fact that Congress had already voted to appropriate the funds.

An arm of Congress, the GAO is viewed as a top auditing agency for the federal government that advises lawmakers and various government entities on how taxpayer dollars are spent.

While the agency's assessment was a setback to Trump, it was unclear how or even if it would figure in his trial in the Republican-led Senate given that key issues such as whether witnesses will appear or new evidence will be considered remain up in the air.

Democrats said the GAO report showed the importance of the Senate hearing from witnesses and considering new documents in the trial.

"This reinforces - again - the need for documents and eyewitnesses in the Senate," House Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adam-schiff-to-lead-prosecution-in-us-senate-on-trump-impeachment-trial-pelosi-274484">Nancy Pelosi</a> told a news conference.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, has said senators should consider only the evidence amassed by the House.

The House voted on Wednesday 228-193, largely along party lines, to give the Senate the task of putting Trump on trial. The Senate is expected to acquit him, keeping Trump in office, as none of its 53 Republicans has voiced support for removing him, a step that requires a two-thirds majority.

Trump has denied wrongdoing and has called the impeachment process a sham.

Democrat sought report

The GAO issued its opinion after receiving a letter inquiring about the aid from Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. The agency's findings are not legally binding, but its reports are seen by lawmakers as objective, reliable and generally uncontested. The GAO has no prosecutorial power.

Its report noted that the US&nbsp;Constitution grants a president no unilateral authority to withhold funds in the way that Trump did. Instead, a president has a "strictly circumscribed authority" to withhold spending only in limited circumstances expressly provided by law. Holding up money for a policy reason, which the Trump administration did in this case, is not permitted, the report said.

Congress approved the $391 million to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country. The money ultimately was provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view.

A pivotal event leading to Trump's impeachment was a July 25 call in which he asked Ukraine's president to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden over unsubstantiated allegations of corruption and to look into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US&nbsp;election.

Democrats have said Trump abused his power by asking a foreign government to interfere in a US&nbsp;election for his own benefit at the expense of American national security.

Republicans have argued that Trump's actions did not rise to the level of impeachable offenses. They have accused Democrats of using the Ukraine affair as a way to nullify Trump's 2016 election victory.

Ceremony, rather than substance, was expected to mark Thursday's proceedings in the Senate, with the seven House "managers" named to prosecute Trump to present the articles of impeachment to the Senate at noon (1700 GMT).

The Senate later in the day will invite US&nbsp;Chief Justice John Roberts to the chamber to be sworn in to preside over the trial and, eventually, to swear in all 100 senators to serve as jurors. It will then formally notify the White House of Trump's impending trial.

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for US President Donald Trump as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office.

The White House violated federal law by withholding security aid approved by lawmakers for Ukraine, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog said on Thursday, in a blow for US President Donald Trump as the Senate prepared to hold a trial on whether to remove him from office. The Democratic-led House of Representatives on Wednesday sent the Senate two charges it passed last month accusing Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress arising from his dealings with Ukraine, clearing the way for only the third impeachment trial of a president to begin in earnest next week. The abuse of power cited by the House included Trump's withholding of $391 million in security aid for Ukraine, a move Democrats have said was aimed at pressuring Kiev into investigating political rival Joe Biden, the Republican president's possible Democratic opponent in the November 3 US election. "Faithful execution of the law does not permit the President to substitute his own policy priorities for those that Congress has enacted into law," the Government Accountability Office (GAO) concluded, referring to the fact that Congress had already voted to appropriate the funds. An arm of Congress, the GAO is viewed as a top auditing agency for the federal government that advises lawmakers and various government entities on how taxpayer dollars are spent. While the agency's assessment was a setback to Trump, it was unclear how or even if it would figure in his trial in the Republican-led Senate given that key issues such as whether witnesses will appear or new evidence will be considered remain up in the air. Democrats said the GAO report showed the importance of the Senate hearing from witnesses and considering new documents in the trial. "This reinforces - again - the need for documents and eyewitnesses in the Senate," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told a news conference. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, has said senators should consider only the evidence amassed by the House. The House voted on Wednesday 228-193, largely along party lines, to give the Senate the task of putting Trump on trial. The Senate is expected to acquit him, keeping Trump in office, as none of its 53 Republicans has voiced support for removing him, a step that requires a two-thirds majority. Trump has denied wrongdoing and has called the impeachment process a sham. Democrat sought report The GAO issued its opinion after receiving a letter inquiring about the aid from Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. The agency's findings are not legally binding, but its reports are seen by lawmakers as objective, reliable and generally uncontested. The GAO has no prosecutorial power. Its report noted that the US Constitution grants a president no unilateral authority to withhold funds in the way that Trump did. Instead, a president has a "strictly circumscribed authority" to withhold spending only in limited circumstances expressly provided by law. Holding up money for a policy reason, which the Trump administration did in this case, is not permitted, the report said. Congress approved the $391 million to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country. The money ultimately was provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view. A pivotal event leading to Trump's impeachment was a July 25 call in which he asked Ukraine's president to investigate Biden and his son Hunter Biden over unsubstantiated allegations of corruption and to look into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US election. Democrats have said Trump abused his power by asking a foreign government to interfere in a US election for his own benefit at the expense of American national security. Republicans have argued that Trump's actions did not rise to the level of impeachable offenses. They have accused Democrats of using the Ukraine affair as a way to nullify Trump's 2016 election victory. Ceremony, rather than substance, was expected to mark Thursday's proceedings in the Senate, with the seven House "managers" named to prosecute Trump to present the articles of impeachment to the Senate at noon (1700 GMT). The Senate later in the day will invite US Chief Justice John Roberts to the chamber to be sworn in to preside over the trial and, eventually, to swear in all 100 senators to serve as jurors. It will then formally notify the White House of Trump's impending trial.

White House broke law by withholding Ukraine aid: Congressional agency

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