The Turkish parliament approved Saturday a security and military cooperation deal with Libya, which will allow Turkey to widen its activities in the north African country.

Ankara signed the agreement with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) just weeks after concluding a controversial deal on maritime jurisdiction.

The north African country has been mired in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising ousted and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Military strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an offensive in April to seize Tripoli from fighters loyal to the UN-recognised GNA, led by Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj.

"The proposal has become law after approval," the parliament said via its official Twitter account. The maritime deal was ratified by lawmakers earlier this month.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Ankara is ready to send troops into Libya if requested by Tripoli but the current military agreement would not allow Turkish combatant forces to go to Libya.

But it would allow both sides to send military personnel and police to each others' countries for training and education purposes, senior Turkish officials say.

For the Turkish government to deploy combat troops to Libya would require a separate mandate from parliament, as it does to send forces to Iraq and Syria each year.

The latest Turkey-Libya memorandum of understanding also covers increased cooperation in the fields of intelligence, terrorism, the defence industry and migration.

Their close relationship comes despite calls from the Arab League, of which Libya is a member, to end cooperation with Turkey following the Turkish military operation against Syrian Kurdish forces in October.

Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE support Hafta and they all have tense or limited relations with Turkey and another GNA backer, Qatar.

The GNA approved the deal on Thursday and the next day, Tripoli urged five "friendly countries" to implement military deals to help it repel Haftar's forces.

Sarraj sent letters to Algeria, Britain, Italy, Turkey and the United States.

The Turkish parliament approved Saturday a security and military cooperation deal with Libya, which will allow Turkey to widen its activities in the north African country.

The Turkish parliament approved Saturday a security and military cooperation deal with Libya, which will allow Turkey to widen its activities in the north African country. Ankara signed the agreement with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) just weeks after concluding a controversial deal on maritime jurisdiction. The north African country has been mired in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising ousted and killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. Military strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an offensive in April to seize Tripoli from fighters loyal to the UN-recognised GNA, led by Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj. "The proposal has become law after approval," the parliament said via its official Twitter account. The maritime deal was ratified by lawmakers earlier this month. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Ankara is ready to send troops into Libya if requested by Tripoli but the current military agreement would not allow Turkish combatant forces to go to Libya. But it would allow both sides to send military personnel and police to each others' countries for training and education purposes, senior Turkish officials say. For the Turkish government to deploy combat troops to Libya would require a separate mandate from parliament, as it does to send forces to Iraq and Syria each year. The latest Turkey-Libya memorandum of understanding also covers increased cooperation in the fields of intelligence, terrorism, the defence industry and migration. Their close relationship comes despite calls from the Arab League, of which Libya is a member, to end cooperation with Turkey following the Turkish military operation against Syrian Kurdish forces in October. Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE support Hafta and they all have tense or limited relations with Turkey and another GNA backer, Qatar. The GNA approved the deal on Thursday and the next day, Tripoli urged five "friendly countries" to implement military deals to help it repel Haftar's forces. Sarraj sent letters to Algeria, Britain, Italy, Turkey and the United States.

Turkey parliament approves Libya military deal

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up.

Debt-burdened Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government since former prime minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29 in the face of nationwide protests.

Demonstrators are demanding an overhaul of the political establishment which they deem corrupt and inept, insisting on a government of independents and experts with no ties to the country's sectarian parties.

Hassan Diab, a 60-year-old engineering professor, was designated prime minister on Thursday with backing from the country's Iran-aligned Shiite Hezbollah movement and its allies.

But Hariri's Sunni bloc did not endorse his nomination, along with other key Christian and Druze Muslim parties and have said they will not take part in Diab's government.&nbsp;

Diab, considered a technocrat, is hoping to set up the new cabinet within four to six weeks and has said he wanted to choose experts to join the line-up, calling on demonstrators to give him a "chance" to carry out the task.

The challenges he must overcome became clear however from the onset of Saturday's talks with various officials and lawmakers.

Parliament speaker Nabih Berri said he "insists on securing representation for all parliamentary groups," in the next government -- a position shared by his Shiite Amal party and Hezbollah.

Samir al-Jisr, a deputy from Hariri's Future Movement, urged Diab to form a government "of independent experts not affiliated with established political parties," to rescue Lebanon from the brink of collapse.&nbsp;

"Considering that this government, just like Diab's nomination, will be supported by only one political stripe, then its formation should take less than" a month or six weeks, he said after meeting the premier-designate.

He was referring to allies Hezbollah, Amal and the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Christian President Michel Aoun who chose Diab to form a cabinet.

Financial collapse

Such backing has sparked an uproar, with Sunni supporters of Hariri blocking roads and scuffling with security forces in Beirut and other cities for the past two consecutive nights to voice their opposition for Diab.

Some roads remained blocked on Saturday in Sunni-majority second city Tripoli and in the northern Akkar region.

Hezbollah sought to appease the anger of the protesters on Saturday, insisting that the next government will not be lopsided.

"No one should think the government will be one of confrontation or one endorsed by only one political stripe," said Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad after meeting Diab.

The new government, he said, will seek to "revitalise" the economy that has taken a beating since the unprecedented protests began on October 17.

Since then, tensions have been heightened by the looming bankruptcy of the debt-burdened Lebanese state.

A dollar-liquidity crisis has pushed banks to impose informal capital controls on dollar deposits and the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent of its value on the black market.

The faltering economy has pushed several companies to close, while surviving businesses try to stay open by paying half-salaries and laying off employees.

A recession of more than 0.2 percent is expected for this year, the World Bank says.

The international community, donors, and financial organisations have warned that debt-saddled Lebanon could ill afford any delay in getting a new government.

The United States, France and other allies of Lebanon have warned they would withhold financial support until a government that can demonstrate willingness to reform can be formed.&nbsp;

Multi-confessional Lebanon is ruled by a complex political system that seeks to maintain a fragile equilibrium between political parties representing the country's major confessional sects.&nbsp;

It usually takes months to form a government as political groups haggle over the allocation of cabinet seats and the distribution of ministerial portfolios.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up.

Lebanon's prime minister-designate launched consultations Saturday to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse amid political rifts over the cabinet's line-up. Debt-burdened Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government since former prime minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29 in the face of nationwide protests. Demonstrators are demanding an overhaul of the political establishment which they deem corrupt and inept, insisting on a government of independents and experts with no ties to the country's sectarian parties. Hassan Diab, a 60-year-old engineering professor, was designated prime minister on Thursday with backing from the country's Iran-aligned Shiite Hezbollah movement and its allies. But Hariri's Sunni bloc did not endorse his nomination, along with other key Christian and Druze Muslim parties and have said they will not take part in Diab's government. Diab, considered a technocrat, is hoping to set up the new cabinet within four to six weeks and has said he wanted to choose experts to join the line-up, calling on demonstrators to give him a "chance" to carry out the task. The challenges he must overcome became clear however from the onset of Saturday's talks with various officials and lawmakers. Parliament speaker Nabih Berri said he "insists on securing representation for all parliamentary groups," in the next government -- a position shared by his Shiite Amal party and Hezbollah. Samir al-Jisr, a deputy from Hariri's Future Movement, urged Diab to form a government "of independent experts not affiliated with established political parties," to rescue Lebanon from the brink of collapse. "Considering that this government, just like Diab's nomination, will be supported by only one political stripe, then its formation should take less than" a month or six weeks, he said after meeting the premier-designate. He was referring to allies Hezbollah, Amal and the Free Patriotic Movement founded by Christian President Michel Aoun who chose Diab to form a cabinet. Financial collapse Such backing has sparked an uproar, with Sunni supporters of Hariri blocking roads and scuffling with security forces in Beirut and other cities for the past two consecutive nights to voice their opposition for Diab. Some roads remained blocked on Saturday in Sunni-majority second city Tripoli and in the northern Akkar region. Hezbollah sought to appease the anger of the protesters on Saturday, insisting that the next government will not be lopsided. "No one should think the government will be one of confrontation or one endorsed by only one political stripe," said Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad after meeting Diab. The new government, he said, will seek to "revitalise" the economy that has taken a beating since the unprecedented protests began on October 17. Since then, tensions have been heightened by the looming bankruptcy of the debt-burdened Lebanese state. A dollar-liquidity crisis has pushed banks to impose informal capital controls on dollar deposits and the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent of its value on the black market. The faltering economy has pushed several companies to close, while surviving businesses try to stay open by paying half-salaries and laying off employees. A recession of more than 0.2 percent is expected for this year, the World Bank says. The international community, donors, and financial organisations have warned that debt-saddled Lebanon could ill afford any delay in getting a new government. The United States, France and other allies of Lebanon have warned they would withhold financial support until a government that can demonstrate willingness to reform can be formed. Multi-confessional Lebanon is ruled by a complex political system that seeks to maintain a fragile equilibrium between political parties representing the country's major confessional sects. It usually takes months to form a government as political groups haggle over the allocation of cabinet seats and the distribution of ministerial portfolios.

Lebanon PM-designate begins tough talks to form government

Beijing Saturday slammed a new US defence act, which includes measures to strengthen Washington's ties with Taiwan and support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protestors, saying it "blatantly interfered" in China's internal affairs.

The tough-worded statement by China's top lawmaking body comes a day after President Xi Jinping told his US counterpart Donald Trump that US comments and actions regarding Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet were harming ties between the two economic giants.

Beijing and Washington have agreed to a temporary truce in their bruising trade war, with a phase-one deal that has rolled back tariffs on billions of dollars worth of goods.&nbsp;

But China has come under strong criticism in Congress, including from Trump's Republican party, over its attempt to clamp down on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

There is also growing concern in Washington, among both Democrats and Republicans, over the mass repression of ethnic Uighurs, a mostly Muslim minority in northwest China's Xinjiang region.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) calls for a report on the treatment of minorities in Xinjiang and to improve military ties with Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province awaiting reunification, by force if necessary.

You Wenze, a spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), told state-run Xinhua news agency, that the bill "blatantly interfered" in China's internal affairs.

The parts relating to Taiwan undermined peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, he said.

Trump signed the $738 billion bill into law on Friday. It also calls for support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protestors.

Washington's attempts to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs using so-called democracy and human rights would be in vain, You told Xinhua.

He expressed "resolute opposition" to the bill, the Xinhua report said.

The statement echoes the language used during a Xi-Trump phone call on Friday.&nbsp;

"China expresses serious concerns over the US side's recent negative words and actions on issues related to China's Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet," Xi said during the call, according to Xinhua's summary.&nbsp;

Xi "noted that the US behaviours have interfered in China's internal affairs and harmed China's interests, which is detrimental to the mutual trust and bilateral cooperation," the state-controlled outlet said.&nbsp;

Beijing Saturday slammed a new US defence act, which includes measures to strengthen Washington's ties with Taiwan and support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protestors, saying it "blatantly interfered" in China's internal affairs.

Beijing Saturday slammed a new US defence act, which includes measures to strengthen Washington's ties with Taiwan and support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protestors, saying it "blatantly interfered" in China's internal affairs. The tough-worded statement by China's top lawmaking body comes a day after President Xi Jinping told his US counterpart Donald Trump that US comments and actions regarding Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet were harming ties between the two economic giants. Beijing and Washington have agreed to a temporary truce in their bruising trade war, with a phase-one deal that has rolled back tariffs on billions of dollars worth of goods. But China has come under strong criticism in Congress, including from Trump's Republican party, over its attempt to clamp down on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. There is also growing concern in Washington, among both Democrats and Republicans, over the mass repression of ethnic Uighurs, a mostly Muslim minority in northwest China's Xinjiang region. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) calls for a report on the treatment of minorities in Xinjiang and to improve military ties with Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province awaiting reunification, by force if necessary. You Wenze, a spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), told state-run Xinhua news agency, that the bill "blatantly interfered" in China's internal affairs. The parts relating to Taiwan undermined peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, he said. Trump signed the $738 billion bill into law on Friday. It also calls for support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy protestors. Washington's attempts to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs using so-called democracy and human rights would be in vain, You told Xinhua. He expressed "resolute opposition" to the bill, the Xinhua report said. The statement echoes the language used during a Xi-Trump phone call on Friday. "China expresses serious concerns over the US side's recent negative words and actions on issues related to China's Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet," Xi said during the call, according to Xinhua's summary. Xi "noted that the US behaviours have interfered in China's internal affairs and harmed China's interests, which is detrimental to the mutual trust and bilateral cooperation," the state-controlled outlet said.

China says US defence act 'blatantly interfered' in its affairs

Russia hit out Saturday at the US decision to impose sanctions on companies working on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that will transport Russian gas to Europe.&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova slammed the United States, accusing it of seeking to prevent other countries from developing their economies.

"A state with $22 trillion in public debt is banning solvent countries from developing their economies," Zakharova wrote on her Facebook page.&nbsp;

"The American ideology does not like global competition. Soon they'll be asking us to stop breathing."&nbsp;

Germany also accused the US of interfering in its internal affairs on Saturday for imposing sanctions on companies working on a major project to supply Western Europe with Russian gas.

An EU spokesman criticised "the imposition of sanctions against EU companies conducting legitimate business", the German government said Berlin rejected "these sorts of extra-territorial sanctions".&nbsp;

"They will hit German and European companies and constitute an interference in our internal affairs," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer.

On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed off on US sanctions against companies building the pipeline that Congress fears will give the Kremlin dangerous leverage over European allies.

The sanctions, which are opposed by the European Union, were included in a sprawling defense spending bill Trump signed at a ceremony on Joint Base Andrews, an air force installation outside Washington, DC.

They target companies building the nearly $11 billion pipeline under the Baltic Sea with the aim of doubling deliveries of Russian natural gas to Europe's leading economy, Germany.

US lawmakers have warned the pipeline would enrich a hostile Russian government and vastly increase President Vladimir Putin's influence in Europe at a time of heightened tension across the continent.

Although US Congress overwhelmingly backed the sanctions, there was some criticism among lawmakers of a move that in effect punishes NATO allies such as Germany.&nbsp;

Russia hit out Saturday at the US decision to impose sanctions on companies working on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that will transport Russian gas to Europe. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova slammed the United States, accusing it of seeking to prevent other countries from developing their economies.

Russia hit out Saturday at the US decision to impose sanctions on companies working on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that will transport Russian gas to Europe. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova slammed the United States, accusing it of seeking to prevent other countries from developing their economies. "A state with $22 trillion in public debt is banning solvent countries from developing their economies," Zakharova wrote on her Facebook page. "The American ideology does not like global competition. Soon they'll be asking us to stop breathing." Germany also accused the US of interfering in its internal affairs on Saturday for imposing sanctions on companies working on a major project to supply Western Europe with Russian gas. An EU spokesman criticised "the imposition of sanctions against EU companies conducting legitimate business", the German government said Berlin rejected "these sorts of extra-territorial sanctions". "They will hit German and European companies and constitute an interference in our internal affairs," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer. On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed off on US sanctions against companies building the pipeline that Congress fears will give the Kremlin dangerous leverage over European allies. The sanctions, which are opposed by the European Union, were included in a sprawling defense spending bill Trump signed at a ceremony on Joint Base Andrews, an air force installation outside Washington, DC. They target companies building the nearly $11 billion pipeline under the Baltic Sea with the aim of doubling deliveries of Russian natural gas to Europe's leading economy, Germany. US lawmakers have warned the pipeline would enrich a hostile Russian government and vastly increase President Vladimir Putin's influence in Europe at a time of heightened tension across the continent. Although US Congress overwhelmingly backed the sanctions, there was some criticism among lawmakers of a move that in effect punishes NATO allies such as Germany.

Soon they'll be asking us to stop breathing: Russia slams US sanctions on European gas project

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday.

Earlier, the party had decided to hold the protest on Sunday, December 22.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Congress to now hold a 'dharna' at Raj Ghat, on December 23, against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalRegisterOfCitizens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalRegisterOfCitizens</a>. <a href="https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR">https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR</a>
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As per reports, the 'dharna' will take at Delhi's Raj Ghat in the presence of Congress party interim president Sonia Gandhi and former chief Rahul Gandhi.

Meanwhile, the BJP has decided to launch a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-to-launch-massive-campaign-to-counter-anti-caa-narrative-over-250-press-meets-100-rallies-planned-269487">massive communication campaign</a> to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

"The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters on Saturday.

He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday.

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday. Earlier, the party had decided to hold the protest on Sunday, December 22. Delhi: Congress to now hold a 'dharna' at Raj Ghat, on December 23, against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct and #NationalRegisterOfCitizens. https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × As per reports, the 'dharna' will take at Delhi's Raj Ghat in the presence of Congress party interim president Sonia Gandhi and former chief Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, the BJP has decided to launch a massive communication campaign to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. "The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters on Saturday. He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication, news agency ANI reported. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress to hold 'dharna' against CAA, NRC at Raj Ghat on Monday

Amid the nationwide protests against the citizenship law, the BJP has decided to launch a massive communication campaign to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

"The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters.

He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication.

"The BJP will take along the refugees, who come to India due to atrocities in their countries in its rallies," he announced.

BJP believes that all communities -- Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Parsi, Sikha, and others -- are Indian citizens and have the right to live with dignity, said Yadav.

He alleged the Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) Bihar bandh turned violent at some places.

"Do Congress and RJD support violence so far as anti-CAA protests are concerned," he asked.

The announcement comes after a meeting of senior BJP leaders with the party's working president JP Nadda over the newly amended law, which grants citizenship to refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India until December 31, 2014.

Answering a question with regard to the BJP ally JDU's announcement not to support the proposed NRC, he said that the CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) are different issues. "JDU supported the CAA in Parliament. NRC and CAA are different. The NRC is an administrative issue," he said.&nbsp;

Amid the nationwide protests against the citizenship law, the BJP has decided to launch a massive communication campaign to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

Amid the nationwide protests against the citizenship law, the BJP has decided to launch a massive communication campaign to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. "The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters. He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication. "The BJP will take along the refugees, who come to India due to atrocities in their countries in its rallies," he announced. BJP believes that all communities -- Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Parsi, Sikha, and others -- are Indian citizens and have the right to live with dignity, said Yadav. He alleged the Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) Bihar bandh turned violent at some places. "Do Congress and RJD support violence so far as anti-CAA protests are concerned," he asked. The announcement comes after a meeting of senior BJP leaders with the party's working president JP Nadda over the newly amended law, which grants citizenship to refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India until December 31, 2014. Answering a question with regard to the BJP ally JDU's announcement not to support the proposed NRC, he said that the CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) are different issues. "JDU supported the CAA in Parliament. NRC and CAA are different. The NRC is an administrative issue," he said.

BJP to launch massive campaign to counter anti-CAA narrative; over 250 press meets, 100 rallies planned

The Sabarimala review petitions will be now heard by a seven-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court in January 2020.

On December 13, the Supreme Court had said that its 2018 order on Sabarimala temple issue was "not final" as the matter is pending before a seven-judge bench, which, it had said, will be constituted soon.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India S A Bobde had made these observations while passing an order on a petition filed by two activists -- Bindu Ammini and Fathima A S -- seeking safe passage for women inside the shrine.

"There is a judgment [allowing women entry] in the Sabarimala temple, but it is equally true that the issue has been referred to a larger Bench. We do not want any violence," the court had observed.

The apex court, however, granted police protection to the two activists. In November, a man had sprayed chili and pepper on Bindu's face when she was on her way to Sabarimala temple.

Fathima had also tried to enter the shrine. The apex court refused to pass any other order in connection to the matter.

The top court had last year allowed girls and women of all age groups to visit the Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala in Kerala, following which a batch of review petitions was filed.

Allowing their review petitions, the court had last month referred the matter to a seven-judge bench.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Sabarimala review petitions will be now heard by a seven-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court in January 2020. On December 13, the Supreme Court had said that its 2018 order on Sabarimala temple issue was "not final" as the matter is pending before a seven-judge bench, which, it had said, will be constituted soon.

The Sabarimala review petitions will be now heard by a seven-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court in January 2020. On December 13, the Supreme Court had said that its 2018 order on Sabarimala temple issue was "not final" as the matter is pending before a seven-judge bench, which, it had said, will be constituted soon. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India S A Bobde had made these observations while passing an order on a petition filed by two activists -- Bindu Ammini and Fathima A S -- seeking safe passage for women inside the shrine. "There is a judgment [allowing women entry] in the Sabarimala temple, but it is equally true that the issue has been referred to a larger Bench. We do not want any violence," the court had observed. The apex court, however, granted police protection to the two activists. In November, a man had sprayed chili and pepper on Bindu's face when she was on her way to Sabarimala temple. Fathima had also tried to enter the shrine. The apex court refused to pass any other order in connection to the matter. The top court had last year allowed girls and women of all age groups to visit the Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala in Kerala, following which a batch of review petitions was filed. Allowing their review petitions, the court had last month referred the matter to a seven-judge bench.

Larger constitution bench of Supreme Court to Sabarimala review petitions in January

Internet services will remain suspended from 6 am to 8 pm on Sunday in Jaipur to maintain law and order, said Jaipur Commissionerate.

Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation Limited stated that for safety and security reasons, the metro services will remain suspended tomorrow from 8 am to 2 pm.

The decision comes amid massive protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act (Act) across various parts of the country.

The CAA, 2019 seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Internet services will remain suspended from 6 am to 8 pm on Sunday in Jaipur to maintain law and order, said Jaipur Commissionerate. Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation Limited stated that for safety and security reasons, the metro services will remain suspended tomorrow from 8 am to 2 pm.

Internet services will remain suspended from 6 am to 8 pm on Sunday in Jaipur to maintain law and order, said Jaipur Commissionerate. Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation Limited stated that for safety and security reasons, the metro services will remain suspended tomorrow from 8 am to 2 pm. The decision comes amid massive protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act (Act) across various parts of the country. The CAA, 2019 seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Internet services to remain suspended in Jaipur from 6 am to 8 pm on Sunday

Fifteen persons died during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Uttar Pradesh, police said on Saturday.

State Inspector General (Law and Order) Praveen Kumar said 263 police personnel were injured of which 57 personnel received firearm injuries.

He said 705 persons have been arrested. "In protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) since December 10 in the state, 705 have been arrested and around 4,500 people were released after preventive arrest. Fifteen casualties have happened. As many as 124 FIRs have been registered," he said.

Kumar said that a large number of illegal weapons were used in the violence during protests.

"A total of 405 bullet shells of the country-made pistol were recovered from protest sites," he said.

Police officials said 63 people were booked and 102 arrested for posting and spreading rumours and misinformation on social media related to the CAA.

"Over 14,100 posts on social media having fake news and misinformation were tacked and action was taken," they said.

As many as 218 people were arrested in Lucknow in connection with violence during anti-CAA protests, according to DGP OP Singh.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged people not to take the law into their hands.

He directed police to search for people involved in spreading rumours concerning the amended law.On Friday clashes took place during protests in different districts of Uttar Pradesh including Bahraich, Bareilly, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Gorakhpur and Sambhal.&nbsp;

Fifteen persons died during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Uttar Pradesh, police said on Saturday. State Inspector General (Law and Order) Praveen Kumar said 263 police personnel were injured of which 57 personnel received firearm injuries.

Fifteen persons died during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Uttar Pradesh, police said on Saturday. State Inspector General (Law and Order) Praveen Kumar said 263 police personnel were injured of which 57 personnel received firearm injuries. He said 705 persons have been arrested. "In protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) since December 10 in the state, 705 have been arrested and around 4,500 people were released after preventive arrest. Fifteen casualties have happened. As many as 124 FIRs have been registered," he said. Kumar said that a large number of illegal weapons were used in the violence during protests. "A total of 405 bullet shells of the country-made pistol were recovered from protest sites," he said. Police officials said 63 people were booked and 102 arrested for posting and spreading rumours and misinformation on social media related to the CAA. "Over 14,100 posts on social media having fake news and misinformation were tacked and action was taken," they said. As many as 218 people were arrested in Lucknow in connection with violence during anti-CAA protests, according to DGP OP Singh.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged people not to take the law into their hands. He directed police to search for people involved in spreading rumours concerning the amended law.On Friday clashes took place during protests in different districts of Uttar Pradesh including Bahraich, Bareilly, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Gorakhpur and Sambhal.

15 dead in Citizenship Amendment Act protests in UP, 705 arrested

The Central government on Saturday dispelled rumours claiming that Indian citizens will need to disclose their religion in their bank's 'Know Your Customer'&nbsp;(KYC) forms.

"There is no requirement for the Indian citizens to declare their religion for opening/existing bank account or for KYC," Rajeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, tweeted.

"Do not fall for baseless rumours about any such move by banks," he added.

According to a media report, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians refugees -- from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan holding long-term visas (LTVs) -- will have to disclose their religion in the bank's KYC forms.&nbsp;

 
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The Central government on Saturday dispelled rumours claiming that Indian citizens will need to disclose their religion in their bank's 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) forms.

The Central government on Saturday dispelled rumours claiming that Indian citizens will need to disclose their religion in their bank's 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) forms. "There is no requirement for the Indian citizens to declare their religion for opening/existing bank account or for KYC," Rajeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, tweeted. "Do not fall for baseless rumours about any such move by banks," he added. According to a media report, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians refugees -- from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan holding long-term visas (LTVs) -- will have to disclose their religion in the bank's KYC forms.

No requirement for Indian citizens to declare religion for opening bank account, clarifies Finance Ministry

Section 144 that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, has been imposed in Haridwar in view of the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), scheduled to be held on Sunday in the city.

Bhim Army will take out a march against the newly amended Act, in Haridwar on Sunday.

"Extra force is being deployed here and those who cause nuisance will not be spared," Ashok Kumar, Director General (Law and Order), Haridwar told ANI.

Meanwhile, earlier today, Congress workers and leaders staged a silent demonstration against CAA by tying black cloth on their mouth, under the leadership of former cabinet minister Nav Prabhat in front of Tilak Bhawan located in the main market of Vikasnagar, Dehradun.

The demonstration lasted for around an hour and after that Congress leaders and workers raised slogans against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Section 144 that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, has been imposed in Haridwar in view of the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), scheduled to be held on Sunday in the city.

Section 144 that prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, has been imposed in Haridwar in view of the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), scheduled to be held on Sunday in the city. Bhim Army will take out a march against the newly amended Act, in Haridwar on Sunday. "Extra force is being deployed here and those who cause nuisance will not be spared," Ashok Kumar, Director General (Law and Order), Haridwar told ANI. Meanwhile, earlier today, Congress workers and leaders staged a silent demonstration against CAA by tying black cloth on their mouth, under the leadership of former cabinet minister Nav Prabhat in front of Tilak Bhawan located in the main market of Vikasnagar, Dehradun. The demonstration lasted for around an hour and after that Congress leaders and workers raised slogans against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Anti-CAA protest: Section 144 imposed in Uttarakhand's Haridwar

A Delhi court on Saturday remanded 15 accused, who were arrested in connection with the violence which had erupted in Daryaganj area, to two-days judicial custody.

The court refused to hear their bail petition and asked their counsel to seek it from the court of the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM).

The Delhi Police had earlier today arrested 15 people in connection with the violence in the area.

They had yesterday detained 40 persons for allegedly pelting stones on the police personnel during the protest.Earlier today, the court did not accede to a request of a batch of lawyers seeking to meet the people, who were detained.

The court asked them to approach a concerned magistrate court or the Delhi High Court.Protests have erupted across the country against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC), which grants Indian citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Saturday remanded 15 accused, who were arrested in connection with the violence which had erupted in Daryaganj area, to two-days judicial custody.

A Delhi court on Saturday remanded 15 accused, who were arrested in connection with the violence which had erupted in Daryaganj area, to two-days judicial custody. The court refused to hear their bail petition and asked their counsel to seek it from the court of the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM). The Delhi Police had earlier today arrested 15 people in connection with the violence in the area. They had yesterday detained 40 persons for allegedly pelting stones on the police personnel during the protest.Earlier today, the court did not accede to a request of a batch of lawyers seeking to meet the people, who were detained. The court asked them to approach a concerned magistrate court or the Delhi High Court.Protests have erupted across the country against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC), which grants Indian citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Daryaganj unrest: Court remands 15 accused to judicial custody for two days

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