President Emmanuel Macron said French forces had "neutralised" several dozen terrorists in Mali on Saturday, as he visited West Africa with a pledge to give new force to the battle against Islamist militants in the region.

The operation in the flashpoint city of Mopti in central Mali came just weeks after 13 French soldiers were killed in a helicopter crash as they were hunting down terrorists in the troubled country.

Macron said in a speech to the French community in Ivory Coast that 33 "terrorists" had been "neutralised", a term a source close to the presidency said meant they had been killed.

French soldiers also released two Malian gendarmes being held by terrorists, he said.

"This considerable success shows the commitment of our forces, the support that we bring to Mali, to the region and to our own security," he said.&nbsp;

"We have had losses, we also have victories this morning thanks to the commitment of our soldiers and Operation Barkhane," he said, referring to the France's military operation against Islamist militants in the Sahel.&nbsp;

Last month's crash was the biggest single-day loss for the French military in nearly four decades and raised fresh questions about the effectiveness of France's 4,500-member operation.

Macron arrived in Ivory Coast on Friday to celebrate Christmas with French troops but the terrorist&nbsp;insurgency in the region is a top item on Macron's agenda during his 48-hour stay in the region.

'Must not let threat flourish'

Away from weeks of protest strikes gripping France, Macron's personal chef travelled with him to cook dinner for around 1,000 troops at the military base in Port-Bouet, near Abidjan's airport.

"I hope we can give new depth, new commitments, a new force to this operation and win a fight that is key to the stability and security of the Sahel," the French leader told the troops.

"We will keep up the fight against terrorists. We will continue to do so with our African partners and with our European and international partners," he said. "Because if we let the threat flourish, it will impact us too."

Despite the French troop presence and a 13,000-strong UN peacekeeping force in Mali, the conflict that erupted in 2012 has engulfed the centre of the country and spread to neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger.

The leaders of five Sahel nations are due to attend a summit in Paris on January 13, when Macron said they would clarify the "political and strategic framework" of the operation against the militants.

On Sunday, Macron will pay a flying visit for talks with President Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger, where terrorist&nbsp;attacks are frequent.

Macron spent Christmas in 2017 with troops deployed to Niger and went last year to Chad.&nbsp;

In Abidjan, he said he wanted to build a new relationship between France and Ivory Coast, in particular helping youth and developing sport.

President Emmanuel Macron said French forces had "neutralised" several dozen terrorists in Mali on Saturday, as he visited West Africa with a pledge to give new force to the battle against Islamist militants in the region.

President Emmanuel Macron said French forces had "neutralised" several dozen terrorists in Mali on Saturday, as he visited West Africa with a pledge to give new force to the battle against Islamist militants in the region. The operation in the flashpoint city of Mopti in central Mali came just weeks after 13 French soldiers were killed in a helicopter crash as they were hunting down terrorists in the troubled country. Macron said in a speech to the French community in Ivory Coast that 33 "terrorists" had been "neutralised", a term a source close to the presidency said meant they had been killed. French soldiers also released two Malian gendarmes being held by terrorists, he said. "This considerable success shows the commitment of our forces, the support that we bring to Mali, to the region and to our own security," he said. "We have had losses, we also have victories this morning thanks to the commitment of our soldiers and Operation Barkhane," he said, referring to the France's military operation against Islamist militants in the Sahel. Last month's crash was the biggest single-day loss for the French military in nearly four decades and raised fresh questions about the effectiveness of France's 4,500-member operation. Macron arrived in Ivory Coast on Friday to celebrate Christmas with French troops but the terrorist insurgency in the region is a top item on Macron's agenda during his 48-hour stay in the region. 'Must not let threat flourish' Away from weeks of protest strikes gripping France, Macron's personal chef travelled with him to cook dinner for around 1,000 troops at the military base in Port-Bouet, near Abidjan's airport. "I hope we can give new depth, new commitments, a new force to this operation and win a fight that is key to the stability and security of the Sahel," the French leader told the troops. "We will keep up the fight against terrorists. We will continue to do so with our African partners and with our European and international partners," he said. "Because if we let the threat flourish, it will impact us too." Despite the French troop presence and a 13,000-strong UN peacekeeping force in Mali, the conflict that erupted in 2012 has engulfed the centre of the country and spread to neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger. The leaders of five Sahel nations are due to attend a summit in Paris on January 13, when Macron said they would clarify the "political and strategic framework" of the operation against the militants. On Sunday, Macron will pay a flying visit for talks with President Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger, where terrorist attacks are frequent. Macron spent Christmas in 2017 with troops deployed to Niger and went last year to Chad. In Abidjan, he said he wanted to build a new relationship between France and Ivory Coast, in particular helping youth and developing sport.

Macron says French forces 'neutralise' over 30 terrorists in Mali

Strikes disrupting services in France brought frustration for travellers thronging Paris stations at the start of the festive season, as rail workers protested over pension reform.

Two weeks of nationwide industrial action against President Emmanuel Macron's planned overhaul of the pension system have disrupted railways and roads, shut some schools and brought more than half a million people onto the streets.

After inconclusive talks with the government on Thursday, hardline unions called for stoppages to continue over the holiday period, while rail sections of more moderate unions also rejected calls for a Christmas truce.

National rail operator SNCF continued to run reduced services on Saturday, including half the usual number of its high-speed TGV trains, as passengers headed out of the French capital.

At Saint-Lazare station, one of the busiest in Paris, travellers scrutinised departure boards for service updates.

Sylvain de Pierrepont and Cathy Walters, en route to Normandy with their two children to visit family, stood waiting after their train was delayed.

"It's a bit stressful because we don't know if the train will be running or not," de Pierrepont said.

As well as competing for limited seats on nationwide rail services, travellers also endured transport chaos in and around Paris with metro and suburban train services crippled by strikes.

Half of the capital's 16 metro lines were shut on Saturday.

At Saint-Lazare station, Aurelie Lecerf said she expected her journey to Caen in Normandy from the Paris suburbs to take six hours, twice the usual journey time.

Unions oppose Macron's plans to streamline France's state pension system, including by scrapping special regimes for sectors such as railways, and to push people to work until 64, beyond the legal retirement age of 62.

The moderate CFDT union has called for members to observe a pause in strikes during the holiday season, but its rail section voted to pursue stoppages.

The rail section of the UNSA union also called for a holiday truce, a move opposed by members in some regions.

Negotiations over the pension reform are due to resume in January, after which the government wants to bring its proposal before parliament and have legislation passed by next summer.

Strikes disrupting services in France brought frustration for travellers thronging Paris stations at the start of the festive season, as rail workers protested over pension reform.

Strikes disrupting services in France brought frustration for travellers thronging Paris stations at the start of the festive season, as rail workers protested over pension reform. Two weeks of nationwide industrial action against President Emmanuel Macron's planned overhaul of the pension system have disrupted railways and roads, shut some schools and brought more than half a million people onto the streets. After inconclusive talks with the government on Thursday, hardline unions called for stoppages to continue over the holiday period, while rail sections of more moderate unions also rejected calls for a Christmas truce. National rail operator SNCF continued to run reduced services on Saturday, including half the usual number of its high-speed TGV trains, as passengers headed out of the French capital. At Saint-Lazare station, one of the busiest in Paris, travellers scrutinised departure boards for service updates. Sylvain de Pierrepont and Cathy Walters, en route to Normandy with their two children to visit family, stood waiting after their train was delayed. "It's a bit stressful because we don't know if the train will be running or not," de Pierrepont said. As well as competing for limited seats on nationwide rail services, travellers also endured transport chaos in and around Paris with metro and suburban train services crippled by strikes. Half of the capital's 16 metro lines were shut on Saturday. At Saint-Lazare station, Aurelie Lecerf said she expected her journey to Caen in Normandy from the Paris suburbs to take six hours, twice the usual journey time. Unions oppose Macron's plans to streamline France's state pension system, including by scrapping special regimes for sectors such as railways, and to push people to work until 64, beyond the legal retirement age of 62. The moderate CFDT union has called for members to observe a pause in strikes during the holiday season, but its rail section voted to pursue stoppages. The rail section of the UNSA union also called for a holiday truce, a move opposed by members in some regions. Negotiations over the pension reform are due to resume in January, after which the government wants to bring its proposal before parliament and have legislation passed by next summer.

French travellers face train disruption as pension strikes go on

Russia and Ukraine announced terms of a new gas transit deal on Saturday, under which Moscow will supply Europe for at least another five years via its former Soviet neighbour and pay a $2.9 billion settlement to Kiev to end a legal dispute.

The deal is a major breakthrough for both countries, which have been seeking to resolve disputes over Ukraine's eastern Donbass region and the Crimea peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014.

Under the new agreement, Russia's Gazprom, which supplies over a third of Europe's gas needs, would use an agent to book the transit of 225 billion cubic metres (bcm) of the fuel via Ukraine over five years.

Of the total, 65 bcm would be shipped in 2020, falling to 40 bcm in 2021 and in each of the subsequent years, Gazprom said.

The Russian gas company would also pay Ukraine the $2.9 billion before Dec. 29, in line with the amount proposed in arbitration rulings between Gazprom and Ukrainian energy firm Naftogaz in 2018.

In exchange, Ukraine is expected to sign a legal settlement and withdraw all outstanding claims, also before Dec. 29, aiming to resolve the issue before the existing supply deal expires.

Russia's Gazprom and Ukraine's Naftogaz had gone to an arbitration court in Stockholm in a number of disputes over gas prices and transit fees dating back to 2014.

The presidents of Russia and Ukraine met in Paris on Dec. 9 to discuss options for a settlement over Donbass and terms for the new gas transit deal. The talks, known as the Normandy summit, were brokered by France and Germany.

Ukrainian Energy Minister Oleksiy Orzhel said on Saturday that under the new deal both parties had an option to extend the five-year term by another 10 years. He added that the transmission tariff for the Russian gas would rise.

The deal comes as U.S. President Donald Trump signed legislation on Friday that included provisions to impose sanctions on companies laying pipe for Nord Stream 2, a project that aims to double gas capacity from Russia along the northern Nord Stream 1 pipeline route to Germany.

Nord Stream 2, which will run along the Baltic sea floor, will enable Russia to bypass Ukraine and Poland to deliver gas.

The group behind Nord Stream 2 said on Saturday it aimed to complete the pipeline as soon as possible, after a major contractor suspended pipe-laying activities due to the U.S. sanctions.

Russia and Ukraine announced terms of a new gas transit deal on Saturday, under which Moscow will supply Europe for at least another five years via its former Soviet neighbour and pay a $2.

Russia and Ukraine announced terms of a new gas transit deal on Saturday, under which Moscow will supply Europe for at least another five years via its former Soviet neighbour and pay a $2.9 billion settlement to Kiev to end a legal dispute. The deal is a major breakthrough for both countries, which have been seeking to resolve disputes over Ukraine's eastern Donbass region and the Crimea peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014. Under the new agreement, Russia's Gazprom, which supplies over a third of Europe's gas needs, would use an agent to book the transit of 225 billion cubic metres (bcm) of the fuel via Ukraine over five years. Of the total, 65 bcm would be shipped in 2020, falling to 40 bcm in 2021 and in each of the subsequent years, Gazprom said. The Russian gas company would also pay Ukraine the $2.9 billion before Dec. 29, in line with the amount proposed in arbitration rulings between Gazprom and Ukrainian energy firm Naftogaz in 2018. In exchange, Ukraine is expected to sign a legal settlement and withdraw all outstanding claims, also before Dec. 29, aiming to resolve the issue before the existing supply deal expires. Russia's Gazprom and Ukraine's Naftogaz had gone to an arbitration court in Stockholm in a number of disputes over gas prices and transit fees dating back to 2014. The presidents of Russia and Ukraine met in Paris on Dec. 9 to discuss options for a settlement over Donbass and terms for the new gas transit deal. The talks, known as the Normandy summit, were brokered by France and Germany. Ukrainian Energy Minister Oleksiy Orzhel said on Saturday that under the new deal both parties had an option to extend the five-year term by another 10 years. He added that the transmission tariff for the Russian gas would rise. The deal comes as U.S. President Donald Trump signed legislation on Friday that included provisions to impose sanctions on companies laying pipe for Nord Stream 2, a project that aims to double gas capacity from Russia along the northern Nord Stream 1 pipeline route to Germany. Nord Stream 2, which will run along the Baltic sea floor, will enable Russia to bypass Ukraine and Poland to deliver gas. The group behind Nord Stream 2 said on Saturday it aimed to complete the pipeline as soon as possible, after a major contractor suspended pipe-laying activities due to the U.S. sanctions.

Russia, Ukraine outline terms for five-year gas transit deal to end row

Hong Kong riot police swept into several shopping malls on Saturday, chasing off and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-say-suspect-fired-shot-during-protest-related-arrest-269472">arresting some anti-government Hong Kong demonstrators</a> who had gathered to press their demands in the peak shopping weekend before Christmas.

In a mall in Yuen Long, close to the China border, hundreds of black-clad protesters marked the five-month anniversary of an attack in a train station by an armed mob wearing white T-shirts which beat up bystanders and protesters with pipes and poles.

Police have been criticised for not responding quickly enough to calls for help, and for not arresting any alleged culprits at the scene. They later made several arrests and said the assailants had links to organised criminal gangs, or triads.

The protesters demanded justice for the attack, shouting "Fight for Freedom" and "Stand With Hong Kong".

"The government didn't do anything so far after 5 months ... I deserve an answer, an explanation," said a 30-year-old clerk surnamed Law.

"Yuen Long is no longer a safe place ... and we all live in white terror when we worry if we will be beaten up when dressed in black."

As dozens of riot police stormed into the mall to chase protesters off, a sushi restaurant had its window smashed and shops were forced to close.

Protests in Hong Kong are now in their seventh month, albeit in a relative lull. Residents are angry at what they see as China's meddling in the city's freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Many are also outraged by perceived police brutality, and are demanding an independent investigation into allegations of excessive force. Other demands include the release of all arrested demonstrators and full democracy.

On Friday night, police arrested a man who fired a single shot with a pistol at plain clothes officers in the northern Tai Po district. No one was injured.

A search of a nearby flat revealed a cache of weaponry including a semi-automatic rifle and bullets. Steve Li, a senior police officer on the scene, told reporters the police had information that the suspect planned to use the pistol during a protest to "cause chaos and to hurt police officers."

In Tsim Sha Tsui on Saturday, groups of protesters also converged on a mall popular with mainland Chinese luxury shoppers.

"We can't celebrate Christmas when our city is taken over by the police. When you see the police outside the mall, do you feel like shopping for presents?" said Bob, 17, a protester.

Hong Kong riot police swept into several shopping malls on Saturday, chasing off and arresting some anti-government Hong Kong demonstrators who had gathered to press their demands in the peak shopping weekend before Christmas.

Hong Kong riot police swept into several shopping malls on Saturday, chasing off and arresting some anti-government Hong Kong demonstrators who had gathered to press their demands in the peak shopping weekend before Christmas. In a mall in Yuen Long, close to the China border, hundreds of black-clad protesters marked the five-month anniversary of an attack in a train station by an armed mob wearing white T-shirts which beat up bystanders and protesters with pipes and poles. Police have been criticised for not responding quickly enough to calls for help, and for not arresting any alleged culprits at the scene. They later made several arrests and said the assailants had links to organised criminal gangs, or triads. The protesters demanded justice for the attack, shouting "Fight for Freedom" and "Stand With Hong Kong". "The government didn't do anything so far after 5 months ... I deserve an answer, an explanation," said a 30-year-old clerk surnamed Law. "Yuen Long is no longer a safe place ... and we all live in white terror when we worry if we will be beaten up when dressed in black." As dozens of riot police stormed into the mall to chase protesters off, a sushi restaurant had its window smashed and shops were forced to close. Protests in Hong Kong are now in their seventh month, albeit in a relative lull. Residents are angry at what they see as China's meddling in the city's freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Many are also outraged by perceived police brutality, and are demanding an independent investigation into allegations of excessive force. Other demands include the release of all arrested demonstrators and full democracy. On Friday night, police arrested a man who fired a single shot with a pistol at plain clothes officers in the northern Tai Po district. No one was injured. A search of a nearby flat revealed a cache of weaponry including a semi-automatic rifle and bullets. Steve Li, a senior police officer on the scene, told reporters the police had information that the suspect planned to use the pistol during a protest to "cause chaos and to hurt police officers." In Tsim Sha Tsui on Saturday, groups of protesters also converged on a mall popular with mainland Chinese luxury shoppers. "We can't celebrate Christmas when our city is taken over by the police. When you see the police outside the mall, do you feel like shopping for presents?" said Bob, 17, a protester.

Hong Kong unrest: Protesters face off with police in mall protests

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's US visit caught attention due to an abruptly cancelled meeting with a US lawmaker.

Jaishankar was scheduled to meet the leaders of the US Senate as well as the leadership of the US House of Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC).

The Senate visit went ahead as planned but the meeting with the Congress leaders was abruptly cancelled due to the presence of Indian-American lawmaker Pramila Jayapal.

Jayapal has been a vocal critic of the current government in India. She even pushed for a resolution asking New Delhi to lift all restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir.

India has maintained that any matter related to Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter and has rejected any foreign intervention.

On Thursday, Jaishankar had said that he has "no interest" in meeting Jayapal.

"I am aware of the draft resolution. I don`t think it is a fair understanding of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir or fair characterisation of what the Indian government is doing. I have no interest in meeting her," he said.

"No Foreign Minister of any independent country should be pressurised into meeting such politicians with their own agendas," MEA sources said as quoted by news agency ANI.

54-year-old Jayapal had introduced the resolution, co-sponsored by Republican Steve Watkins, that urges India to lift the communication clampdown, release political detainees and "preserve religious freedom for all residents" in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's US visit caught attention due to an abruptly cancelled meeting with a US lawmaker. Jaishankar was scheduled to meet the leaders of the US Senate as well as the leadership of the US House of Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC).

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's US visit caught attention due to an abruptly cancelled meeting with a US lawmaker. Jaishankar was scheduled to meet the leaders of the US Senate as well as the leadership of the US House of Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC). The Senate visit went ahead as planned but the meeting with the Congress leaders was abruptly cancelled due to the presence of Indian-American lawmaker Pramila Jayapal. Jayapal has been a vocal critic of the current government in India. She even pushed for a resolution asking New Delhi to lift all restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir. India has maintained that any matter related to Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter and has rejected any foreign intervention. On Thursday, Jaishankar had said that he has "no interest" in meeting Jayapal. "I am aware of the draft resolution. I don`t think it is a fair understanding of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir or fair characterisation of what the Indian government is doing. I have no interest in meeting her," he said. "No Foreign Minister of any independent country should be pressurised into meeting such politicians with their own agendas," MEA sources said as quoted by news agency ANI. 54-year-old Jayapal had introduced the resolution, co-sponsored by Republican Steve Watkins, that urges India to lift the communication clampdown, release political detainees and "preserve religious freedom for all residents" in Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from ANI)

No interest in meeting her: When Jaishankar cancelled meet with US lawmaker

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-one-billion-euros-raised-pledged-for-rebuilding-notre-dame-256097">Notre-Dame cathedral</a> will fail to hold a Christmas mass for the first time since 1803, French officials confirmed on Saturday, as workers continue to repair and rebuild the Paris landmark eight months after a devastating fire.

The cathedral's press office said midnight mass would still be celebrated on Christmas Eve by rector Patrick Chauvet but it would be held at the nearby church of Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois.

Notre-Dame, part of a UNESCO world heritage site on the banks of the River Seine, was ravaged by the April 15 blaze -- losing its gothic spire, roof and many precious artefacts.

The building had remained open for Christmas through two centuries of often tumultuous history -- including the Nazi occupation in World War II -- being forced to close only during the anti-Catholic revolutionary period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

President Emmanuel Macron has set a timetable of five years to completely repair the eight-centuries-old structure, which remains shrouded in scaffolding with a vast crane looming over it.

Paris prosecutors suspect criminal negligence and opened an investigation in June, suggesting a stray cigarette butt or an electrical fault could be the culprit.

The culture ministry said in October that nearly one billion euros ($1.1 billion) had been pledged or raised for the reconstruction.

Notre-Dame cathedral will fail to hold a Christmas mass for the first time since 1803, French officials confirmed on Saturday, as workers continue to repair and rebuild the Paris landmark eight months after a devastating fire.

Notre-Dame cathedral will fail to hold a Christmas mass for the first time since 1803, French officials confirmed on Saturday, as workers continue to repair and rebuild the Paris landmark eight months after a devastating fire. The cathedral's press office said midnight mass would still be celebrated on Christmas Eve by rector Patrick Chauvet but it would be held at the nearby church of Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois. Notre-Dame, part of a UNESCO world heritage site on the banks of the River Seine, was ravaged by the April 15 blaze -- losing its gothic spire, roof and many precious artefacts. The building had remained open for Christmas through two centuries of often tumultuous history -- including the Nazi occupation in World War II -- being forced to close only during the anti-Catholic revolutionary period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. President Emmanuel Macron has set a timetable of five years to completely repair the eight-centuries-old structure, which remains shrouded in scaffolding with a vast crane looming over it. Paris prosecutors suspect criminal negligence and opened an investigation in June, suggesting a stray cigarette butt or an electrical fault could be the culprit. The culture ministry said in October that nearly one billion euros ($1.1 billion) had been pledged or raised for the reconstruction.

No Christmas Mass at Notre-Dame for first time in two centuries

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday announced that the loans of farmers up to rupees 2 lakh will be waived off and that the money will be deposited in the banks directly, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Thackeray added that the scheme will be implemented from March 2020.

The Opposition staged a walkout from the state assembly with leader Devendra Fadnavis demanding a 100 per cent debt waiver for the farmers.

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Opposition has staged walk out from the Maharashtra legislative assembly demanding complete waiver of farmers' loans, after Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's announcement of farm loan waiver. <a href="https://t.co/J02XZ3Mv3m">https://t.co/J02XZ3Mv3m</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1208346733794643968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The scheme is called 'Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Loan Waiver Scheme,' the Maharashtra Chief Minister announced.&nbsp;

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) - the ruling coalition of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress - &nbsp;welcomed the move as Thackeray made the announcement on the last day of the winter session of Maharashtra Assembly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday announced that the loans of farmers up to rupees 2 lakh will be waived off and that the money will be deposited in the banks directly, news agency ANI reported.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday announced that the loans of farmers up to rupees 2 lakh will be waived off and that the money will be deposited in the banks directly, news agency ANI reported. Thackeray added that the scheme will be implemented from March 2020. The Opposition staged a walkout from the state assembly with leader Devendra Fadnavis demanding a 100 per cent debt waiver for the farmers. Opposition has staged walk out from the Maharashtra legislative assembly demanding complete waiver of farmers' loans, after Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's announcement of farm loan waiver. https://t.co/J02XZ3Mv3m — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × The scheme is called 'Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Loan Waiver Scheme,' the Maharashtra Chief Minister announced. Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) - the ruling coalition of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress - welcomed the move as Thackeray made the announcement on the last day of the winter session of Maharashtra Assembly. (With inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray announces Rs 2 lakh loan waiver for poor farmers

Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad on Saturday was sent to Tihar jail from Tis Hazari Court. He is on 14-day judicial custody and was arrested earlier in the day.&nbsp;

Azad moved for bail at Delhi's Tis Hazari Court today. He was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar.

On Friday, Azad held a mass march at Delhi Jama Masjid area in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The national capital's Old Delhi area yesterday witnessed mass protests wherein the police had to resort to using water cannons to curb the agitation.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad who was detained yesterday has been arrested today. Azad was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar. <a href="https://t.co/C0g9aP5Zxu">pic.twitter.com/C0g9aP5Zxu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1208303130678423552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, Azad has been booked by the Delhi Police for rioting, unlawful assembly and other offences in connection with the anti-citizenship protest in Daryaganj area.&nbsp;

In the FIR, the complainant, Daryaganj SHO Rakesh Kumar Sharma, said that the Bhim Army chief instigated a mob of around four thousand people outside the Jama Masjid during the Friday prayer.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Bhim Army Chief, Chandrashekhar Azad being taken to Tihar jail from Tis Hazari Court. He has been sent to 14-day judicial custody. He was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar. <a href="https://t.co/7e1OzzgA1U">https://t.co/7e1OzzgA1U</a> <a href="https://t.co/IzlWJtMRtZ">pic.twitter.com/IzlWJtMRtZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1208383122259070976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After his speech, a mob of "thousands" started gathering between the Jama Masjid and the Delhi Gate, the police said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

"The Delhi Police tried to stop the mob at the Delhi Gate through barricading and asked the protesters to retreat. Around 6 pm, around eight thousand people gathered outside the DCP office, Central district and Darya Ganj," the FIR against Azad read.

A case has been registered against Azad under Sections 147 (punishment for rioting), 148 (rioting, armed with deadly weapon), 149 (unlawful assembly), 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and other relevant sections of the IPC.&nbsp;

Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad on Saturday was sent to Tihar jail from Tis Hazari Court. He is on 14-day judicial custody and was arrested earlier in the day.

Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad on Saturday was sent to Tihar jail from Tis Hazari Court. He is on 14-day judicial custody and was arrested earlier in the day. Azad moved for bail at Delhi's Tis Hazari Court today. He was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar. On Friday, Azad held a mass march at Delhi Jama Masjid area in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act. The national capital's Old Delhi area yesterday witnessed mass protests wherein the police had to resort to using water cannons to curb the agitation. Delhi: Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad who was detained yesterday has been arrested today. Azad was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar. pic.twitter.com/C0g9aP5Zxu — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × As per reports, Azad has been booked by the Delhi Police for rioting, unlawful assembly and other offences in connection with the anti-citizenship protest in Daryaganj area. In the FIR, the complainant, Daryaganj SHO Rakesh Kumar Sharma, said that the Bhim Army chief instigated a mob of around four thousand people outside the Jama Masjid during the Friday prayer. Delhi: Bhim Army Chief, Chandrashekhar Azad being taken to Tihar jail from Tis Hazari Court. He has been sent to 14-day judicial custody. He was earlier denied permission for a protest march from Jama Masjid to Jantar Mantar. https://t.co/7e1OzzgA1U pic.twitter.com/IzlWJtMRtZ — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × After his speech, a mob of "thousands" started gathering between the Jama Masjid and the Delhi Gate, the police said as reported by news agency ANI. "The Delhi Police tried to stop the mob at the Delhi Gate through barricading and asked the protesters to retreat. Around 6 pm, around eight thousand people gathered outside the DCP office, Central district and Darya Ganj," the FIR against Azad read. A case has been registered against Azad under Sections 147 (punishment for rioting), 148 (rioting, armed with deadly weapon), 149 (unlawful assembly), 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and other relevant sections of the IPC.

CAA protest: Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad arrested, sent to 14-day judicial custody 

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-says-muslim-nations-considering-trade-through-gold-barter-system-to-avoid-sanctions-269452">remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir</a> Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources. &nbsp;

"It was conveyed that such remarks are neither in keeping with the accepted diplomatic practice of non-interference in each other's internal affairs nor with the state of our bilateral relations," government sources said on the matter.&nbsp;

"It was also conveyed that such remarks are both ill-informed and insensitive. Malaysia was asked to take a long-term and strategic view of the bilateral relations," sources added.&nbsp;

India has slammed Malaysian PM for his comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

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Government Sources: The Malaysian Charge d’Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today, in order to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by the Malaysian PM in Kuala Lumpur today at the press briefing. (1/3)
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The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Prime Minister of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">Malaysia’s comment is factually inaccurate</a>" and New Delhi "calls upon Malaysia to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts."

Malaysian PM has reacted over India's CAA law twice in the past.&nbsp;

On Saturday morning Mohamad again commented on the law saying it is unfortunate and "to exclude Muslims from becoming citizens even by due process is unfair. Have voiced our disagreement".

Mahathir was among the few global leaders, along with Turkey's President Erdoğan who were critical of New Delhi after it removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources. "It was conveyed that such remarks are neither in keeping with the accepted diplomatic practice of non-interference in each other's internal affairs nor with the state of our bilateral relations," government sources said on the matter. "It was also conveyed that such remarks are both ill-informed and insensitive. Malaysia was asked to take a long-term and strategic view of the bilateral relations," sources added. India has slammed Malaysian PM for his comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act. Government Sources: The Malaysian Charge d’Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today, in order to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by the Malaysian PM in Kuala Lumpur today at the press briefing. (1/3) — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Prime Minister of Malaysia’s comment is factually inaccurate" and New Delhi "calls upon Malaysia to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts." Malaysian PM has reacted over India's CAA law twice in the past. On Saturday morning Mohamad again commented on the law saying it is unfortunate and "to exclude Muslims from becoming citizens even by due process is unfair. Have voiced our disagreement". Mahathir was among the few global leaders, along with Turkey's President Erdoğan who were critical of New Delhi after it removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Protest lodged with Malaysia over PM Mahathir Mohamad's remarks on citizenship law: MEA

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-foreign-forces-to-interfere-in-hong-kong-macau-chinese-president-xi-269413">Hong Kong</a> police on Saturday said an armed suspect fired a live round at officers as they tried to arrest him in an operation linked to the months of pro-democracy protests engulfing the city.

Police said a 19-year-old man pulled a semi-automatic pistol from his waistband as officers approached him in Tai Po district on Friday evening.

The shot did not hit anyone and the man was subdued.

A subsequent search of a nearby flat uncovered an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and more than 250 rounds of ammunition.

Police said they believed the man and the newly discovered weapons were linked to a group arrested earlier this month who were also allegedly found in possession of a pistol and were plotting to attack officers.

"The firearms we discovered matched the intelligence we had collected which indicated that some people hoped to use firearms in some public assemblies to wound some others, including police officers on duty," Senior Superintendent Lee Kwai-wah told reporters on Saturday.

However, Lee said the suspect was also facing ongoing firearms charges from an arrest last year before the protests.

Riot police had to be called in to back up the officers as local residents began heckling police, with at least two tear gas rounds fired to disperse them, the South China Morning Post reported.

Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been shaken for six months by increasingly violent pro-democracy protests.

They were initially sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions to the authoritarian mainland but have since morphed into a popular revolt against Beijing's rule, with spiralling fears that the city is losing some of its unique liberties.

Millions have marched peacefully in multiple rallies, with Beijing and local leader Carrie Lam digging their heels in.

But a newly radicalised youth armed with petrol bombs, bricks and sometimes bows and arrows has added a dangerous layer to the movement, leading to increasingly violent battles with riot police.

Over the last six months, police have fired more than 16,000 rounds of tear gas and 10,000 rubber bullets. Some 6,000 people have been arrested, with 1,000 charged, a large chunk of them students.

In recent weeks, police have made arrests indicating some protesters may be plotting more drastic action.

Alongside the arrest earlier this month of a group of people in possession of a pistol, police said they also discovered two homemade nail bombs that had been stored in the grounds of a school.

Both Lam and the Hong Kong police force's reputation have taken a hammering during the protests but Beijing has publicly backed both.

The South China Morning Post published a new poll on Sunday which found 73 percent of respondents felt the police's handling of the protest had eroded trust in the force.

Among the demands being made by protesters is an independent inquiry into the police, amnesty for those arrested and fully free elections.

In the last month, the frequency of protests has declined as well as the level of violence after pro-democracy candidates won a landslide at local elections.

But Lam and Beijing have given no sign of budging.&nbsp;

On Saturday afternoon, small groups of a few dozen masked protesters held flashmob rallies in shopping malls.

One group vandalised a restaurant owned by a conglomerate that is deemed to be pro-Beijing before police arrived on scene and the protesters dispersed.

Hong Kong police on Saturday said an armed suspect fired a live round at officers as they tried to arrest him in an operation linked to the months of pro-democracy protests engulfing the city.

Hong Kong police on Saturday said an armed suspect fired a live round at officers as they tried to arrest him in an operation linked to the months of pro-democracy protests engulfing the city. Police said a 19-year-old man pulled a semi-automatic pistol from his waistband as officers approached him in Tai Po district on Friday evening. The shot did not hit anyone and the man was subdued. A subsequent search of a nearby flat uncovered an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and more than 250 rounds of ammunition. Police said they believed the man and the newly discovered weapons were linked to a group arrested earlier this month who were also allegedly found in possession of a pistol and were plotting to attack officers. "The firearms we discovered matched the intelligence we had collected which indicated that some people hoped to use firearms in some public assemblies to wound some others, including police officers on duty," Senior Superintendent Lee Kwai-wah told reporters on Saturday. However, Lee said the suspect was also facing ongoing firearms charges from an arrest last year before the protests. Riot police had to be called in to back up the officers as local residents began heckling police, with at least two tear gas rounds fired to disperse them, the South China Morning Post reported. Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been shaken for six months by increasingly violent pro-democracy protests. They were initially sparked by a now-abandoned attempt to allow extraditions to the authoritarian mainland but have since morphed into a popular revolt against Beijing's rule, with spiralling fears that the city is losing some of its unique liberties. Millions have marched peacefully in multiple rallies, with Beijing and local leader Carrie Lam digging their heels in. But a newly radicalised youth armed with petrol bombs, bricks and sometimes bows and arrows has added a dangerous layer to the movement, leading to increasingly violent battles with riot police. Over the last six months, police have fired more than 16,000 rounds of tear gas and 10,000 rubber bullets. Some 6,000 people have been arrested, with 1,000 charged, a large chunk of them students. In recent weeks, police have made arrests indicating some protesters may be plotting more drastic action. Alongside the arrest earlier this month of a group of people in possession of a pistol, police said they also discovered two homemade nail bombs that had been stored in the grounds of a school. Both Lam and the Hong Kong police force's reputation have taken a hammering during the protests but Beijing has publicly backed both. The South China Morning Post published a new poll on Sunday which found 73 percent of respondents felt the police's handling of the protest had eroded trust in the force. Among the demands being made by protesters is an independent inquiry into the police, amnesty for those arrested and fully free elections. In the last month, the frequency of protests has declined as well as the level of violence after pro-democracy candidates won a landslide at local elections. But Lam and Beijing have given no sign of budging. On Saturday afternoon, small groups of a few dozen masked protesters held flashmob rallies in shopping malls. One group vandalised a restaurant owned by a conglomerate that is deemed to be pro-Beijing before police arrived on scene and the protesters dispersed.

Hong Kong police say suspect fired shot during protest-related arrest

As the people hit the streets at the Jantar Mantar in the national capital and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh to demonstrate against the Citizenship Amendment Act, some protesters on Friday gave roses to the security personnel with beautiful messages.

At the Jantar Mantar, young protestors offered red roses to police personnel, saying that even if they were lathi-charged, their message would be -- "Love in return for hatred".

Students of Jamia Millia Islamia carried out a long march to protest against the new citizenship law and offered roses to police personnel, who were deployed for security. While offering roses to personnel, they chanted slogans, "Dilli Police Baat Karo, Aao Humare Saath Chalo" (Delhi Police, talk to us. Come along and walk with us).

The slogans reassured that students were seeking non-violent engagement, "Hum Yuvaa Hai Baat Karenga/Naki Ghusaa Laat Karenge (We are the youths, who just want to talk. We aren't here to punch or kick)."

In several parts of the country, many protesters were seen attempting to engage with the police.

Locals offered roses to the police in Bhopal, thanking them to provide security during their peaceful protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the NRC.

In a unique way to convince protestors at Town Hall to leave the place and end their protest, DCP of Bengaluru (Central), Chetan Singh Rathore on Thursday sang the national anthem over the public address system, making all protestor rise up from their place.

Shortly after the national anthem commenced, the people protesting over the CAA left the place without any argument.

The CAA 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;

As the people hit the streets at the Jantar Mantar in the national capital and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh to demonstrate against the Citizenship Amendment Act, some protesters on Friday gave roses to the security personnel with beautiful messages.

As the people hit the streets at the Jantar Mantar in the national capital and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh to demonstrate against the Citizenship Amendment Act, some protesters on Friday gave roses to the security personnel with beautiful messages. At the Jantar Mantar, young protestors offered red roses to police personnel, saying that even if they were lathi-charged, their message would be -- "Love in return for hatred". Students of Jamia Millia Islamia carried out a long march to protest against the new citizenship law and offered roses to police personnel, who were deployed for security. While offering roses to personnel, they chanted slogans, "Dilli Police Baat Karo, Aao Humare Saath Chalo" (Delhi Police, talk to us. Come along and walk with us). The slogans reassured that students were seeking non-violent engagement, "Hum Yuvaa Hai Baat Karenga/Naki Ghusaa Laat Karenge (We are the youths, who just want to talk. We aren't here to punch or kick)." In several parts of the country, many protesters were seen attempting to engage with the police. Locals offered roses to the police in Bhopal, thanking them to provide security during their peaceful protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the NRC. In a unique way to convince protestors at Town Hall to leave the place and end their protest, DCP of Bengaluru (Central), Chetan Singh Rathore on Thursday sang the national anthem over the public address system, making all protestor rise up from their place. Shortly after the national anthem commenced, the people protesting over the CAA left the place without any argument. The CAA 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.

Talk to us, walk with us: Anti-CAA protesters to police with roses

Jharkhand assembly elections recorded the overall voter turnout of 66 per cent with the fifth phase witnessing 70.83 per cent electoral exercise their democratic right to vote in the final phase of elections in Jharkhand on Friday.

According to the Election Commission (EC), the final phase of elections concluded in a peaceful manner, registering over 2 per cent less voter turnout compared to that in the last elections for the 16 seats.

A total of 247 candidates including 29 female were in the fray for this phase in which 40,05,287 voters will exercise their franchise.No complaint regarding EVM/VVPAT was reported during the poll today, the EC said.

Over 62.4 per cent voter turnout was recorded at 15 Assembly constituencies covering four districts that went to polls in the fourth phase of elections in Jharkhand on December 16.

The third phase of elections took place in 17 Assembly constituencies covering eight districts on December 12.

The second phase of elections took place in 20 Assembly constituencies on December 7, while the first phase of voting took place on November 30. The counting of votes will be held on December 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Jharkhand assembly elections recorded the overall voter turnout of 66 per cent with the fifth phase witnessing 70.83 per cent electoral exercise their democratic right to vote in the final phase of elections in Jharkhand on Friday.

Jharkhand assembly elections recorded the overall voter turnout of 66 per cent with the fifth phase witnessing 70.83 per cent electoral exercise their democratic right to vote in the final phase of elections in Jharkhand on Friday. According to the Election Commission (EC), the final phase of elections concluded in a peaceful manner, registering over 2 per cent less voter turnout compared to that in the last elections for the 16 seats. A total of 247 candidates including 29 female were in the fray for this phase in which 40,05,287 voters will exercise their franchise.No complaint regarding EVM/VVPAT was reported during the poll today, the EC said. Over 62.4 per cent voter turnout was recorded at 15 Assembly constituencies covering four districts that went to polls in the fourth phase of elections in Jharkhand on December 16. The third phase of elections took place in 17 Assembly constituencies covering eight districts on December 12. The second phase of elections took place in 20 Assembly constituencies on December 7, while the first phase of voting took place on November 30. The counting of votes will be held on December 23.

Over 66 per cent voter turnout recorded in Jharkhand polls

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