Sri Lanka spin maestro Muttiah Muralitharan was named Governor of a Lankan province, news agencies reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Muralitharan, who scalped 800 Test wickets, has been appointed Governor of Sri Lanka's Northern Province by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gotabaya-rajapaksa-sworn-in-as-sri-lankan-new-president-262851">President Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> on a special invitation.

The 47-year-old is among three new Governors who were to be appointed by the newly-elected Lankan government.

According to reports, the legendary spinner was personally invited by President Rajapaksa to accept the post.&nbsp;

Cricket coach and former Sri Lankan cricketer retired from the Test format in the year 2010.&nbsp;

Crowned as the greatest Test match bowler ever by Wisden Cricketers' Almanack in 2002, Muralitharan is remembered as one of the finest spinners in the history of international cricket.&nbsp;

In his career, Muralitharan bagged many feats, broke and set many records including the world record for bagging the most wickets in both Test and ODI cricket formats.&nbsp;

He is the only Sri Lankan to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame.

The development follows the appointment of Sri Lanka's new leadership after&nbsp;former Lankan wartime defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa won the elections last week.

Rajapaksa was sworn in as the president of the island nation last week and appointed his brother and former Lankan strongman, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gotabaya-rajapaksa-names-brother-mahinda-as-sri-lanka-pm-spokesperson-263441">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a>, as the country's Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The Rajapaksa brothers are credited for ending Sri Lanka's civil war a decade ago by brutally crushing Tamil Tigers.&nbsp;

Gotabaya, known as the "Terminator" was the defence secretary when his brother Mahinda was the president of Sri Lanka (2005-15). During his tenure as defence secretary, Gotabaya was accused of allowing death squads to kill rivals, journalists and critics.

Sri Lanka spin maestro Muttiah Muralitharan was named Governor of a Lankan province, news agencies reported on Wednesday. Muralitharan, who scalped 800 Test wickets, has been appointed Governor of Sri Lanka's Northern Province by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on a special invitation.

Sri Lanka spin maestro Muttiah Muralitharan was named Governor of a Lankan province, news agencies reported on Wednesday. Muralitharan, who scalped 800 Test wickets, has been appointed Governor of Sri Lanka's Northern Province by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on a special invitation. The 47-year-old is among three new Governors who were to be appointed by the newly-elected Lankan government. According to reports, the legendary spinner was personally invited by President Rajapaksa to accept the post. Cricket coach and former Sri Lankan cricketer retired from the Test format in the year 2010. Crowned as the greatest Test match bowler ever by Wisden Cricketers' Almanack in 2002, Muralitharan is remembered as one of the finest spinners in the history of international cricket. In his career, Muralitharan bagged many feats, broke and set many records including the world record for bagging the most wickets in both Test and ODI cricket formats. He is the only Sri Lankan to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. The development follows the appointment of Sri Lanka's new leadership after former Lankan wartime defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa won the elections last week. Rajapaksa was sworn in as the president of the island nation last week and appointed his brother and former Lankan strongman, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as the country's Prime Minister. The Rajapaksa brothers are credited for ending Sri Lanka's civil war a decade ago by brutally crushing Tamil Tigers. Gotabaya, known as the "Terminator" was the defence secretary when his brother Mahinda was the president of Sri Lanka (2005-15). During his tenure as defence secretary, Gotabaya was accused of allowing death squads to kill rivals, journalists and critics.

Muttiah Muralitharan appointed governor of Sri Lanka's Northern Province 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-moves-islamabad-high-court-against-verdict-announcement-in-treason-case-against-musharraf-264539">Islamabad High Court (IHC)</a> on Wednesday stopped the special court from announcing verdict in the high treason case against former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pervez-musharraf-approaches-hc-as-verdict-on-high-treason-case-nears-264139">President General Pervez Musharraf</a>. 
The IHC's order comes a day before the special court was scheduled to announce the verdict on the basis of the available record, Dawn reported

The IHC was hearing a petition filed by the Pakistan government seeking an adjournment of the verdict's announcement. A similar petition was also filed by Musharraf in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lahore-high-court-accepts-hafiz-saaeds-application-challenging-his-arrest-in-terror-financing-case-254314">Lahore High Court</a>.

"For reasons to be recorded later, we allow writ petition&nbsp;filed by the Ministry of Interior," the court said in its short order.

The IHC has also directed the government to notify a new prosecutor or a team of prosecution in the treason case by December 5. It has also asked the special court to fix a date "for affording a reasonable opportunity of hearing" to the notified prosecutor or prosecution team as well as the counsel appointed for Musharraf.

The special court on November 19 concluded the trial proceedings in the high treason case against Musharraf for declaring a state emergency on November 3, 2007. It also ruled out that the verdict would be announced on November 28 (Thursday) on the basis of the available record, dawn had reported.

The high treason trial of the former leader has been pending since December 2013 when he was booked in the case.

He was indicted on March 31, 2014, and the prosecution had tabled the entire evidence before the special court in September the same year. However, due to litigation at appellate forums, the trial of the former president lingered on and he left Pakistan in March 2016 "to seek medical treatment."

The retired general was that year declared an absconder as he failed to appear before the court despite repeated summons and the court directive issued to the FIA to arrest him.

Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday stopped the special court from announcing verdict in the high treason case against former President General Pervez Musharraf.

Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday stopped the special court from announcing verdict in the high treason case against former President General Pervez Musharraf. The IHC's order comes a day before the special court was scheduled to announce the verdict on the basis of the available record, Dawn reported The IHC was hearing a petition filed by the Pakistan government seeking an adjournment of the verdict's announcement. A similar petition was also filed by Musharraf in the Lahore High Court. "For reasons to be recorded later, we allow writ petition filed by the Ministry of Interior," the court said in its short order. The IHC has also directed the government to notify a new prosecutor or a team of prosecution in the treason case by December 5. It has also asked the special court to fix a date "for affording a reasonable opportunity of hearing" to the notified prosecutor or prosecution team as well as the counsel appointed for Musharraf. The special court on November 19 concluded the trial proceedings in the high treason case against Musharraf for declaring a state emergency on November 3, 2007. It also ruled out that the verdict would be announced on November 28 (Thursday) on the basis of the available record, dawn had reported. The high treason trial of the former leader has been pending since December 2013 when he was booked in the case. He was indicted on March 31, 2014, and the prosecution had tabled the entire evidence before the special court in September the same year. However, due to litigation at appellate forums, the trial of the former president lingered on and he left Pakistan in March 2016 "to seek medical treatment." The retired general was that year declared an absconder as he failed to appear before the court despite repeated summons and the court directive issued to the FIA to arrest him.

Pakistan: Islamabad High Court stops announcement of verdict in Musharraf's high treason case

Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that there had been "dilution" in the SPG Act and the Bill brought by the government to amend the Act was aimed at making the specialised force more efficient.

Moving the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 for passage in Lok Sabha, Shah said the amendments were in keeping with the basic spirit of the Act.

He said the bill provides that Special Protection Group (SPG) will provide security to the Prime Minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence.

It will also provide security to any former Prime Ministers, and his immediate family members residing with him at the residence allotted to him for five years from the date on which he ceases to hold the office.

Shah said a prime minister and former prime minister were assassinated leading to "big loss" and Special Protection Group Act, 1988 was brought following recommendations of an expert committee and had seen changes in the past. "It was diluted at different times," he said.

The minister said that the Prime Minister is given SPG protection as he is the head of the government and has to take tough decisions concerning internal and external security. "It is aimed at neutralizing all dangers," he said.

Citing examples, he said many countries have dedicated forces who only protect their heads of government.

"The aim (of the bill) is that there is more efficiency (in the force) and there is no lapse," he said.

Shah said the spirit of the bill was reflected in its title and the system of protection has been created according to the stature of the post. The SPG he said not only provides physical security to Prime Minister but also protects his office, communications.

He said the word 'Special'&nbsp;in the Act refers to the security of prime minister.

"The word 'Protection'&nbsp;does not refer to only physical security but communications, office and is in accordance with the dignity and stature of the post.'&nbsp;The word 'Group'&nbsp;in SPG, he said, refers to specialized elite training where there is no dilution in its efficiency.&nbsp;

Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that there had been "dilution" in the SPG Act and the Bill brought by the government to amend the Act was aimed at making the specialised force more efficient.

Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that there had been "dilution" in the SPG Act and the Bill brought by the government to amend the Act was aimed at making the specialised force more efficient. Moving the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 for passage in Lok Sabha, Shah said the amendments were in keeping with the basic spirit of the Act. He said the bill provides that Special Protection Group (SPG) will provide security to the Prime Minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence. It will also provide security to any former Prime Ministers, and his immediate family members residing with him at the residence allotted to him for five years from the date on which he ceases to hold the office. Shah said a prime minister and former prime minister were assassinated leading to "big loss" and Special Protection Group Act, 1988 was brought following recommendations of an expert committee and had seen changes in the past. "It was diluted at different times," he said. The minister said that the Prime Minister is given SPG protection as he is the head of the government and has to take tough decisions concerning internal and external security. "It is aimed at neutralizing all dangers," he said. Citing examples, he said many countries have dedicated forces who only protect their heads of government. "The aim (of the bill) is that there is more efficiency (in the force) and there is no lapse," he said. Shah said the spirit of the bill was reflected in its title and the system of protection has been created according to the stature of the post. The SPG he said not only provides physical security to Prime Minister but also protects his office, communications. He said the word 'Special' in the Act refers to the security of prime minister. "The word 'Protection' does not refer to only physical security but communications, office and is in accordance with the dignity and stature of the post.' The word 'Group' in SPG, he said, refers to specialized elite training where there is no dilution in its efficiency.

Amit Shah says SPG Act diluted at different times, Bill aims to make force more efficient

Trump impeachment inquiry: What happens next?

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 was notified on August, 9 and it reorganised the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir reorganised it into the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Union territory of Ladakh without legislature.

"Upon passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019, in the Parliament on 6th August 2019, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 has been notified on 9th August 2019. As per the Act, the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir is reorganised into the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Union territory of Ladakh without a legislature," replied MHA in Upper House.

The central government on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

 
&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 was notified on August, 9 and it reorganised the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir reorganised it into the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Union territory of Ladakh without legislature.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 was notified on August, 9 and it reorganised the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir reorganised it into the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Union territory of Ladakh without legislature. "Upon passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019, in the Parliament on 6th August 2019, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 has been notified on 9th August 2019. As per the Act, the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir is reorganised into the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Union territory of Ladakh without a legislature," replied MHA in Upper House. The central government on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 was notified on August, 9: MHA in Upper House

Indian shares ended higher on Wednesday tracking global equity markets, as upbeat comments by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump that Washington and Beijing were in the final throes of an initial trade deal stoked risk appetite.

The Nifty closed up 0.5 per cent at 12,100.70, while the benchmark Sensex was also 0.5 per cent higher at 41,020.60.

The biggest gainers on the Nifty were Yes Bank Ltd, up 8.08 per cent, UltraTech Cement Ltd higher by 2.96 per cent and State Bank of India gaining 2.4 per cent.

Auto stocks led gains in the Nifty as their main sub-index rose 1.30 per cent.

Shares of Tata Motors advanced 4.22 per cent, while Maruti Suzuki climbed 2.40 per cent.

The biggest laggards on the Nifty were Bharti Infratel Ltd, Cipla Ltd and Larsen &amp; Toubro Ltd.

Bharti Infratel fell 3.16 per cent, Cipla Ltd was down 2.02 per cent, while Larsen &amp; Toubro Ltd lost 2.02 per cent.

Indian shares ended higher on Wednesday tracking global equity markets, as upbeat comments by US President Donald Trump that Washington and Beijing were in the final throes of an initial trade deal stoked risk appetite.

Indian shares ended higher on Wednesday tracking global equity markets, as upbeat comments by US President Donald Trump that Washington and Beijing were in the final throes of an initial trade deal stoked risk appetite. The Nifty closed up 0.5 per cent at 12,100.70, while the benchmark Sensex was also 0.5 per cent higher at 41,020.60. The biggest gainers on the Nifty were Yes Bank Ltd, up 8.08 per cent, UltraTech Cement Ltd higher by 2.96 per cent and State Bank of India gaining 2.4 per cent. Auto stocks led gains in the Nifty as their main sub-index rose 1.30 per cent. Shares of Tata Motors advanced 4.22 per cent, while Maruti Suzuki climbed 2.40 per cent. The biggest laggards on the Nifty were Bharti Infratel Ltd, Cipla Ltd and Larsen & Toubro Ltd. Bharti Infratel fell 3.16 per cent, Cipla Ltd was down 2.02 per cent, while Larsen & Toubro Ltd lost 2.02 per cent.

Sensex, Nifty end higher as US-China trade hopes lift investor sentiment

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lack-of-response-to-2611-different-from-uri-and-balakot-operations-s-jaishankar-262170">camp at Balakot</a> and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India.

"Inputs indicate that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/to-boost-economy-government-must-spend-on-rural-infra-farmers-and-ignite-demand-former-finance-minister-yashwant-sinha-256788">camp at Balakot</a> and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India," replied MoS Home GK Reddy in Upper House.

The reply came in response to the unstarred question by Congress MP Ahmed Patel who has asked "whether the government is aware that terror camps have again reactivated in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-was-our-leaderships-resolve-to-punish-perpetrators-of-terrorism-iaf-chief-on-air-force-day-254373">Balakot in Pakistan</a>" and about the precautionary and other measures government proposes to take in this matter. An Unstarred Question is one to which written answer is desired by the member and is deemed to be laid on the Table of the House by Minister.

He informed that the centre is "committed to taking all necessary steps to protect the borders of the country and maintain its integrity and sovereignty".

The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out aerial strikes on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-45-terrorists-being-trained-at-jaish-e-mohammeds-balakot-facility-255870">Jaish-e-Mohammad</a> (JeM) terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, in retaliation to Pulwama terror attack earlier this year.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India.

The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India. "Inputs indicate that attempts are being made by Pakistan-based terror outfits to reactivate its camp at Balakot and restart their religious and Jihadi indoctrination courses against India," replied MoS Home GK Reddy in Upper House. The reply came in response to the unstarred question by Congress MP Ahmed Patel who has asked "whether the government is aware that terror camps have again reactivated in Balakot in Pakistan" and about the precautionary and other measures government proposes to take in this matter. An Unstarred Question is one to which written answer is desired by the member and is deemed to be laid on the Table of the House by Minister. He informed that the centre is "committed to taking all necessary steps to protect the borders of the country and maintain its integrity and sovereignty". The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out aerial strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, in retaliation to Pulwama terror attack earlier this year.

Balakot terror camps in Pakistan being reactivated: MHA informs Rajya Sabha

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) inked between India and Saudi Arabia in the field of combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and chemical precursors.

The MoUs shall facilitate and enhance the cooperation between the two countries in combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and chemical precursors, as defined by the United Nations International Drug Control Conventions.

The cooperation will also provide a provision for the exchange of relevant information as well as methods, identities and suspicious activities of producers, smugglers and traffickers of narcotic drugs, details of trafficking of NDPS and Precursors Chemicals on requisitions and financial details of the traffickers arrested on drug-related charges.

Illegal Drug trafficking is a global illicit trade. Massive production and circulation of drugs through various convenient routes especially through Afghanistan is paving ways for high consumption of drugs amongst youth thus creating a negative impact on public health and adding to the criminalisation of the society.

Drug trafficking has also provided funding for insurgency and terrorism in various regions throughout the world. Narco-terrorists and international criminal organizations that thrive on the illegal drug trade now threaten the security of many nations.&nbsp;

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) inked between India and Saudi Arabia in the field of combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and chemical precursors.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) inked between India and Saudi Arabia in the field of combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and chemical precursors. The MoUs shall facilitate and enhance the cooperation between the two countries in combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and chemical precursors, as defined by the United Nations International Drug Control Conventions. The cooperation will also provide a provision for the exchange of relevant information as well as methods, identities and suspicious activities of producers, smugglers and traffickers of narcotic drugs, details of trafficking of NDPS and Precursors Chemicals on requisitions and financial details of the traffickers arrested on drug-related charges. Illegal Drug trafficking is a global illicit trade. Massive production and circulation of drugs through various convenient routes especially through Afghanistan is paving ways for high consumption of drugs amongst youth thus creating a negative impact on public health and adding to the criminalisation of the society. Drug trafficking has also provided funding for insurgency and terrorism in various regions throughout the world. Narco-terrorists and international criminal organizations that thrive on the illegal drug trade now threaten the security of many nations.

Cabinet approves India-Saudi Arabia MoUs in smuggling, drug trafficking

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh apprised the Lok Sabha that post abrogation of Article 370 terrorism-related incidents have almost reduced to nil in Kashmir.

The Union Minister was replying to Congress MP S Kodikunnil question on `normalcy` in Jammu and Kashmir in the Lower House.

Singh also asserted that the region is swiftly returning to normalcy.

"Security forces and police are working in coordination and taking appropriate action. Terrorist incidents are close to nil in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. Normalcy is fast returning to Jammu and Kashmir," said Singh.

"There are terrorist attacks in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Where is normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir? Government is misleading the House. The government should make a statement," asked Congress MP S Kodikunnil Centre scrapped Article 370 in August and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh apprised the Lok Sabha that post abrogation of Article 370 terrorism-related incidents have almost reduced to nil in Kashmir. The Union Minister was replying to Congress MP S Kodikunnil question on `normalcy` in Jammu and Kashmir in the Lower House.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh apprised the Lok Sabha that post abrogation of Article 370 terrorism-related incidents have almost reduced to nil in Kashmir. The Union Minister was replying to Congress MP S Kodikunnil question on `normalcy` in Jammu and Kashmir in the Lower House. Singh also asserted that the region is swiftly returning to normalcy. "Security forces and police are working in coordination and taking appropriate action. Terrorist incidents are close to nil in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. Normalcy is fast returning to Jammu and Kashmir," said Singh. "There are terrorist attacks in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Where is normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir? Government is misleading the House. The government should make a statement," asked Congress MP S Kodikunnil Centre scrapped Article 370 in August and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Terrorist attacks almost nil after abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir: Rajnath

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

"The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE&nbsp;Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added.

The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan.

India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries. "The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement. "The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added. The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan. India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

India, Afghanistan exchange treaty to extradite criminal offenders

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray.

"Earlier today. All together for Maharashtra's #MahaStrength," Aaditya said retweeting a photo shared by Supriya Sule after today's meeting of NCP MLAs presided by Sharad Pawar which saw Uddhav Thackeray also attend.

The photo showed Aaditya standing with Sena's Sanjay Raut and NCP's Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar. He also retweeted another tweet by the official handle of the NCP with photos from the meeting, with both party chiefs.

The NCP meeting was called to explain the current scenario in Maharashtra to the party MLAs.

Later on, Uddhav Thackeray addressed a meeting of his party's MLAs to discuss the existing situation in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile Sharad Pawar, through a tweet today expressed confidence that his party will form the government with the Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and it had no plans to ally with the BJP.

"There is no question of forming an alliance with the BJP. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with Shiv Sena and Congress to form the government. Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray. "Earlier today.

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray. "Earlier today. All together for Maharashtra's #MahaStrength," Aaditya said retweeting a photo shared by Supriya Sule after today's meeting of NCP MLAs presided by Sharad Pawar which saw Uddhav Thackeray also attend. The photo showed Aaditya standing with Sena's Sanjay Raut and NCP's Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar. He also retweeted another tweet by the official handle of the NCP with photos from the meeting, with both party chiefs. The NCP meeting was called to explain the current scenario in Maharashtra to the party MLAs. Later on, Uddhav Thackeray addressed a meeting of his party's MLAs to discuss the existing situation in Maharashtra. Meanwhile Sharad Pawar, through a tweet today expressed confidence that his party will form the government with the Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and it had no plans to ally with the BJP. "There is no question of forming an alliance with the BJP. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with Shiv Sena and Congress to form the government. Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.

Congress-NCP together for Maharashtra's 'Maha strength': Aaditya Thackeray

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-urge-hong-kongers-to-vote-to-end-violence-264203">district council elections</a> seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests.

Government data released one hour before polling stations closed said nearly 2.9 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-election-4726-voting-turnout-by-afternoon-highest-so-far-in-history-264201">people had voted</a> by 9:30 p.m., a turnout rate of more than 69% - a record showing that appeared to have been encouraged by the political turmoil. About 1.47 million voted in the last district elections four years ago.

First results were due after midnight. The voter numbers showed people's determination, said one voter named Tsz, 30, who works in the service industry.

"The high turnout rate...definitely reflects Hong Kong people's hope for genuine universal suffrage," he said.

Casting her ballot, the Beijing-backed Lam pledged that her government would listen "more intensively" to the views of district councils in the Chinese-ruled city.

"I hope this kind of stability and calm is not only for today's election, but to show that everyone does not want Hong Kong to fall into a chaotic situation again," Lam said.

The protests started over a now-withdrawn extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial but rapidly evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

They have at times forced the closure of government, businesses and schools as police used tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon in response to petrol bombs and rocks.

The run-up to the election was marked by attacks on candidates, with one stabbed and wounded and another having part of his ear bitten off.

Ming Lee, 26, who works in event production, said she hoped the higher turnout would benefit the pro-democracy camp that is battling some seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates.

"I hope this vote can counter the voice of the pro-establishment, so as to bring in more voices from the democrats," she said. "The social problems encouraged people to vote and to focus on political issues."

The district councils control some spending and decide issues such as recycling and public health. A record 1,104 candidates were vying for 452 seats and a record 4.1 million people have enrolled to vote.

If the pro-democracy campaigners gain control, they could secure six seats on Hong Kong's semi-representative Legislative Council and 117 seats on the 1,200-member panel that selects its chief executive.

Jimmy Sham, a candidate for the Civil Human Rights Front, which organised some of the anti-government rallies, said: "We don't know yet, at the end of the day, if the democrats can win a majority. But I hope our Hong Kong citizens can vote for the future of Hong Kong."

Restaurant manager Jeremy Chan, 55, saw the elections as offering Beijing supporters a chance to share their opinions.

"They believe they are fighting for democracy, fighting for Hong Kong, but the rioters only listen to what they want to hear," Chan said, citing vandalism of businesses seen as pro-Beijing. "Freedom of speech is lost."

University challenge

Sunday was also the seventh day of a stand-off at Polytechnic University, whose campus has been surrounded by police as some protesters hid out on the grounds.

"The district council election is almost like a referendum on recent months of social activity," said a protester clad in a red university tracksuit, his face covered by a red mask.

"My personal liberty to vote has been violated," said the protester, who fears being seized by police if he tries to escape from the campus.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are also responding to perceived police brutality.

China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula for the autonomy of Hong Kong. Police say they have shown restraint in the face of potentially deadly attacks.

Electoral affairs chief Barnabus Fung said there had been 3,638 complaints on Sunday, mostly related to the long queues at polling stations, which he put down to the large numbers voting.

Well-known pro-democracy advocate Alexandra "Grandma" Wong, who was detained in the city of Shenzhen over the border from Hong Kong in August, said this was "the day that we are longing for".

"Because I was detained in Shenzhen, my ballot has become a wasted paper. This breaks my heart. Please help add oil for me and vote. All the Best!!! Be Safe!!!" she wrote according to a message on the Lennon Wall protest movement Facebook page.

It was not clear for how long Wong, who became a fixture at protests carrying a large British Union Jack flag, was detained. 
&nbsp;

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in district council elections seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests.

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in district council elections seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests. Government data released one hour before polling stations closed said nearly 2.9 million people had voted by 9:30 p.m., a turnout rate of more than 69% - a record showing that appeared to have been encouraged by the political turmoil. About 1.47 million voted in the last district elections four years ago. First results were due after midnight. The voter numbers showed people's determination, said one voter named Tsz, 30, who works in the service industry. "The high turnout rate...definitely reflects Hong Kong people's hope for genuine universal suffrage," he said. Casting her ballot, the Beijing-backed Lam pledged that her government would listen "more intensively" to the views of district councils in the Chinese-ruled city. "I hope this kind of stability and calm is not only for today's election, but to show that everyone does not want Hong Kong to fall into a chaotic situation again," Lam said. The protests started over a now-withdrawn extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial but rapidly evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. They have at times forced the closure of government, businesses and schools as police used tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon in response to petrol bombs and rocks. The run-up to the election was marked by attacks on candidates, with one stabbed and wounded and another having part of his ear bitten off. Ming Lee, 26, who works in event production, said she hoped the higher turnout would benefit the pro-democracy camp that is battling some seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates. "I hope this vote can counter the voice of the pro-establishment, so as to bring in more voices from the democrats," she said. "The social problems encouraged people to vote and to focus on political issues." The district councils control some spending and decide issues such as recycling and public health. A record 1,104 candidates were vying for 452 seats and a record 4.1 million people have enrolled to vote. If the pro-democracy campaigners gain control, they could secure six seats on Hong Kong's semi-representative Legislative Council and 117 seats on the 1,200-member panel that selects its chief executive. Jimmy Sham, a candidate for the Civil Human Rights Front, which organised some of the anti-government rallies, said: "We don't know yet, at the end of the day, if the democrats can win a majority. But I hope our Hong Kong citizens can vote for the future of Hong Kong." Restaurant manager Jeremy Chan, 55, saw the elections as offering Beijing supporters a chance to share their opinions. "They believe they are fighting for democracy, fighting for Hong Kong, but the rioters only listen to what they want to hear," Chan said, citing vandalism of businesses seen as pro-Beijing. "Freedom of speech is lost." University challenge Sunday was also the seventh day of a stand-off at Polytechnic University, whose campus has been surrounded by police as some protesters hid out on the grounds. "The district council election is almost like a referendum on recent months of social activity," said a protester clad in a red university tracksuit, his face covered by a red mask. "My personal liberty to vote has been violated," said the protester, who fears being seized by police if he tries to escape from the campus. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are also responding to perceived police brutality. China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula for the autonomy of Hong Kong. Police say they have shown restraint in the face of potentially deadly attacks. Electoral affairs chief Barnabus Fung said there had been 3,638 complaints on Sunday, mostly related to the long queues at polling stations, which he put down to the large numbers voting. Well-known pro-democracy advocate Alexandra "Grandma" Wong, who was detained in the city of Shenzhen over the border from Hong Kong in August, said this was "the day that we are longing for". "Because I was detained in Shenzhen, my ballot has become a wasted paper. This breaks my heart. Please help add oil for me and vote. All the Best!!! Be Safe!!!" she wrote according to a message on the Lennon Wall protest movement Facebook page. It was not clear for how long Wong, who became a fixture at protests carrying a large British Union Jack flag, was detained.

Hong Kong council polls close amid record turnout; locals hope for full democracy, peace and calm

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