<p>A wildfire is burning on the Hawaiian island of Maui, which has been further fuelled by powerful winds from Hurricane Dora.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US-based media outlets reported on Wednesday (August 9) that people on the island had to jump into the ocean on Tuesday to escape flames and smoke.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Coast Guard told CBS News that a dozen people have been rescued in the town of Lahaina. Coast Guard Lt. Elaine Simon told the outlet that the wind was blowing thick black smoke towards the water.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-more-than-50-injured-in-factory-explosion-near-moscow-623904">More than 50 injured in factory explosion near Moscow</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A helicopter and boat were also deployed by the coast guard to rescue several people from the water after they jumped into the ocean in an attempt&nbsp;to flee from the flames and smoke.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a telephonic interview with the Associated Press on Wednesday, County of Maui spokesperson Mahina Martin said that the wildfire was widespread in Lahaina, including Front Street — an area of the historic town and popular tourist attraction.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is Front Street, Lahaina on Maui, a popular tourist destination, currently suffering from effects of the fires. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hawaii?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hawaii</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maui?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maui</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MauiFires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MauiFires</a><br />
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<a href="https://t.co/NqkGiywrgI">pic.twitter.com/NqkGiywrgI</a></p>
— Johnny (@tallyman2023) <a href="https://twitter.com/tallyman2023/status/1689272013427548160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wildfire has engulfed businesses on Front Street in downtown Lahaina in West Maui, home to 12,000 people.<br />
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The Coast Guard is responding to people who were forced to go into the ocean due to the flames.<br />
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Video credit to Alan Dickar, a local resident of Lahaina. <a href="https://t.co/8uiyHQP55B">pic.twitter.com/8uiyHQP55B</a></p>
— Colin McCarthy (@US_Stormwatch) <a href="https://twitter.com/US_Stormwatch/status/1689193105487257600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is what it looked like earlier on Maui. If you've been to my hometown of Lahaina...I fear it is no longer. I dread what it will look like in the morning. An apocalyptic scene is unfolding due to the fires raging across my island. Please pray for us. <a href="https://t.co/88V2kjjpyV">pic.twitter.com/88V2kjjpyV</a></p>
— HawaiiDelilah™ 🟦 (@HawaiiDelilah) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawaiiDelilah/status/1689241362011660288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to a report by CBS Honolulu affiliate KGMB-TV, the "videos on social media showed a wall of flames descending on Front Street in Lahaina and destroying a number of businesses".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hawaiian Electric Company said that thousands of its customers were currently without power Wednesday morning. Poweroutage.us stated that as of 1:20am (7:20 am ET), nearly 20% of the county (14,114 customers) was without power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-nine-dead-two-missing-after-holiday-lodging-fire-623863">France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Hawaii's Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke told CNN that the state is facing severe challenges to fight the flames. Luke said, "When we deal with hurricanes and disasters following hurricanes, we're usually dealing with heavy rain, we're dealing with flooding."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Luke added, "The fact that we have wildfires in multiple areas as a result of indirectly from a hurricane is unprecedented; it's something that Hawaii residents and the state have not experienced."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A wildfire is burning on the Hawaiian island of Maui, which has been further fuelled by powerful winds from Hurricane Dora. US-based media outlets reported on Wednesday (August 9) that people on the island had to jump into the ocean on Tuesday to escape flames and smoke.

A wildfire is burning on the Hawaiian island of Maui, which has been further fuelled by powerful winds from Hurricane Dora. US-based media outlets reported on Wednesday (August 9) that people on the island had to jump into the ocean on Tuesday to escape flames and smoke. The Coast Guard told CBS News that a dozen people have been rescued in the town of Lahaina. Coast Guard Lt. Elaine Simon told the outlet that the wind was blowing thick black smoke towards the water. Also read: More than 50 injured in factory explosion near Moscow A helicopter and boat were also deployed by the coast guard to rescue several people from the water after they jumped into the ocean in an attempt to flee from the flames and smoke. In a telephonic interview with the Associated Press on Wednesday, County of Maui spokesperson Mahina Martin said that the wildfire was widespread in Lahaina, including Front Street — an area of the historic town and popular tourist attraction. This is Front Street, Lahaina on Maui, a popular tourist destination, currently suffering from effects of the fires. #Hawaii #maui #MauiFires pic.twitter.com/NqkGiywrgI — Johnny (@tallyman2023) August 9, 2023 × Wildfire has engulfed businesses on Front Street in downtown Lahaina in West Maui, home to 12,000 people. The Coast Guard is responding to people who were forced to go into the ocean due to the flames. Video credit to Alan Dickar, a local resident of Lahaina. pic.twitter.com/8uiyHQP55B — Colin McCarthy (@US_Stormwatch) August 9, 2023 × This is what it looked like earlier on Maui. If you've been to my hometown of Lahaina...I fear it is no longer. I dread what it will look like in the morning. An apocalyptic scene is unfolding due to the fires raging across my island. Please pray for us. pic.twitter.com/88V2kjjpyV — HawaiiDelilah™ 🟦 (@HawaiiDelilah) August 9, 2023 × According to a report by CBS Honolulu affiliate KGMB-TV, the "videos on social media showed a wall of flames descending on Front Street in Lahaina and destroying a number of businesses". Hawaiian Electric Company said that thousands of its customers were currently without power Wednesday morning. Poweroutage.us stated that as of 1:20am (7:20 am ET), nearly 20% of the county (14,114 customers) was without power. Also read: France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people Hawaii's Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke told CNN that the state is facing severe challenges to fight the flames. Luke said, "When we deal with hurricanes and disasters following hurricanes, we're usually dealing with heavy rain, we're dealing with flooding." Luke added, "The fact that we have wildfires in multiple areas as a result of indirectly from a hurricane is unprecedented; it's something that Hawaii residents and the state have not experienced." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Maui wildfire: People jump into ocean to escape flames and smoke - VIDEO

<p>Western Australian government has announced the launch of 'EverNow' event to bolster the State's events calendar and support jobs and the local economy. The new homegrown event called 'EverNow' is a free festival to celebrate Western Australia's unique nature and indigenous culture and will run from 4-9 October. The event includes three key elements - Song Circle, Fire Gardens and Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak.</p>

<p>The event known as 'EverNow' has been developed by Perth Festival and will be held across a number of iconic locations to celebrate Western Australia's Indigenous culture and heritage. Kings Park will be home to the bold reimagining of Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak which attracted 300,000 people when it opened Perth Festival in 2017 and 2019.<br />
<br />
Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak will transform Kings Park with a display of light, sound and projections - telling the stories of Noongar culture and the beauty and biodiversity of Australia's SouthWest. The Supreme Court Gardens will play host to Song Circle, a live performance and celebration of Noongar song and dance set in a future-focused immersive wonderland.</p>

<p>The doors to Government House Gardens will also be opened to the public as it is transformed into Fire Gardens, a dreamscape of leaping flames, shadow and wonder. The event will be free to attend but will require a ticket to gain entry. EverNow event will run for an initial two years, with the intention for the event to become an annual staple on the State's major events calendar.</p>

<p>"This brand new homegrown event will put Western Australia on the map, not only nationally, but internationally, as EverNow grows year on year. The festival program has been carefully crafted to engage the senses and celebrate our State's rich Aboriginal culture and breathtaking nature, while attracting visitors from far and wide. Events such as EverNow contribute significant jobs for local workers and boost the State's economy, while supporting a range of Western Australian businesses," said Premier Roger Cook.</p>

<p>The event also aims at boosting tourism. "We want to make sure there is a reason to visit Western Australia every month and every season and that means building a strong calendar of events that offer something for everyone. EverNow will add a new dimension to our major events calendar, showcasing the unique attributes of our State and celebrating our rich Indigenous culture and heritage," said Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti.</p>

<p>WA's Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman said that new homegrown event will create an opportunity for arts and cultural works to be developed, that draw visitors to experience the transcendent beauty of the country.&nbsp;</p>

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Western Australian government has announced the launch of 'EverNow' event to bolster the State's events calendar and support jobs and the local economy. The new homegrown event called 'EverNow' is a free festival to celebrate Western Australia's unique nature and indigenous culture and will run from 4-9 October.

Western Australian government has announced the launch of 'EverNow' event to bolster the State's events calendar and support jobs and the local economy. The new homegrown event called 'EverNow' is a free festival to celebrate Western Australia's unique nature and indigenous culture and will run from 4-9 October. The event includes three key elements - Song Circle, Fire Gardens and Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak. The event known as 'EverNow' has been developed by Perth Festival and will be held across a number of iconic locations to celebrate Western Australia's Indigenous culture and heritage. Kings Park will be home to the bold reimagining of Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak which attracted 300,000 people when it opened Perth Festival in 2017 and 2019. Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak will transform Kings Park with a display of light, sound and projections - telling the stories of Noongar culture and the beauty and biodiversity of Australia's SouthWest. The Supreme Court Gardens will play host to Song Circle, a live performance and celebration of Noongar song and dance set in a future-focused immersive wonderland. The doors to Government House Gardens will also be opened to the public as it is transformed into Fire Gardens, a dreamscape of leaping flames, shadow and wonder. The event will be free to attend but will require a ticket to gain entry. EverNow event will run for an initial two years, with the intention for the event to become an annual staple on the State's major events calendar. "This brand new homegrown event will put Western Australia on the map, not only nationally, but internationally, as EverNow grows year on year. The festival program has been carefully crafted to engage the senses and celebrate our State's rich Aboriginal culture and breathtaking nature, while attracting visitors from far and wide. Events such as EverNow contribute significant jobs for local workers and boost the State's economy, while supporting a range of Western Australian businesses," said Premier Roger Cook. The event also aims at boosting tourism. "We want to make sure there is a reason to visit Western Australia every month and every season and that means building a strong calendar of events that offer something for everyone. EverNow will add a new dimension to our major events calendar, showcasing the unique attributes of our State and celebrating our rich Indigenous culture and heritage," said Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti. WA's Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman said that new homegrown event will create an opportunity for arts and cultural works to be developed, that draw visitors to experience the transcendent beauty of the country. Disclaimer – Consumer connect initiative. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Western Australia announces 'EverNow' event to boost tourism and jobs

<p>More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory. In a report by TASS, the emergency services said the blast appeared to have occurred in a warehouse containing pyrotechnic equipment. It had been reportedly rented by a pyrotechnics firm.</p>

<p>Officials in the city of Sergiyev Posad said that the blast occurred at a plant that produced optical equipment. The city is some 35 miles northeast of the capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-nine-dead-two-missing-after-holiday-lodging-fire-623863">France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov said on state television: "Now, 52 people have sought medical help. Some have slight contusions from the blast wave, some just have burns."&nbsp;</p>

<p>BBC meanwhile reported&nbsp;Moscow's governor Vorobyov as saying on Telegram that six people were in intensive care.</p>

<p>Videos shared online showed a large plume of smoke billowing from the facility in the city of Sergiyev Posad.</p>

<p>The blast occurred on the grounds of a factory that Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles.</p>

<p>Videos and photos shared on social media showed massive plumes of smoke. A bright ball of flames burst on the horizon was also seen, which was followed by a shockwave that blew out windows from some buildings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vorobyov said he could not comment on the cause of the explosion but that it was being investigated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Footage of an explosion in the Moscow region.<br />
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The factory, by the way, makes scopes and binoculars for the russian army. Or used to make.. <a href="https://t.co/H1U2x9ZGdd">pic.twitter.com/H1U2x9ZGdd</a></p>
— Iuliia Mendel (@IuliiaMendel) <a href="https://twitter.com/IuliiaMendel/status/1689187840968552448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of Russia’s main military optics manufacturers, the Zagorski plant near Moscow, was rocked by a huge explosion that blew up out windows many street blocks away. Cause unknown, but the plant makes optics for missiles and aircraft, as well as night-vision goggles and scopes. <a href="https://t.co/llpblKKIlr">pic.twitter.com/llpblKKIlr</a></p>
— Yaroslav Trofimov (@yarotrof) <a href="https://twitter.com/yarotrof/status/1689197904185978880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Did Ukraine do it?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>There were rumours on social media forums that the fire was caused by a Ukrainian drone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But citing emergency services, TASS reported that the officials did not believe the blast had been caused by any Ukrainian drone attack — many of which have taken place in Moscow and the surrounding area in recent weeks and months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said. The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory.

More than 50 people were injured on Wednesday (August 9) in a Russian factory explosion near Moscow, the region's governor said. The blast was reported at an optics and optical electronics factory. In a report by TASS, the emergency services said the blast appeared to have occurred in a warehouse containing pyrotechnic equipment. It had been reportedly rented by a pyrotechnics firm. Officials in the city of Sergiyev Posad said that the blast occurred at a plant that produced optical equipment. The city is some 35 miles northeast of the capital. Also read: France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov said on state television: "Now, 52 people have sought medical help. Some have slight contusions from the blast wave, some just have burns." BBC meanwhile reported Moscow's governor Vorobyov as saying on Telegram that six people were in intensive care. Videos shared online showed a large plume of smoke billowing from the facility in the city of Sergiyev Posad. The blast occurred on the grounds of a factory that Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles. Videos and photos shared on social media showed massive plumes of smoke. A bright ball of flames burst on the horizon was also seen, which was followed by a shockwave that blew out windows from some buildings. Vorobyov said he could not comment on the cause of the explosion but that it was being investigated. Watch this report: × Footage of an explosion in the Moscow region. The factory, by the way, makes scopes and binoculars for the russian army. Or used to make.. pic.twitter.com/H1U2x9ZGdd — Iuliia Mendel (@IuliiaMendel) August 9, 2023 × One of Russia’s main military optics manufacturers, the Zagorski plant near Moscow, was rocked by a huge explosion that blew up out windows many street blocks away. Cause unknown, but the plant makes optics for missiles and aircraft, as well as night-vision goggles and scopes. pic.twitter.com/llpblKKIlr — Yaroslav Trofimov (@yarotrof) August 9, 2023 × Did Ukraine do it? There were rumours on social media forums that the fire was caused by a Ukrainian drone. But citing emergency services, TASS reported that the officials did not believe the blast had been caused by any Ukrainian drone attack — many of which have taken place in Moscow and the surrounding area in recent weeks and months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia: More than 50 injured in massive explosion in factory near Moscow

<p>The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath provided a big update on the Chandrayaan-3 mission on Tuesday (August 8) as he assured that Vikram lander will be able to make a soft-landing on the Moon's surface on August 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He claimed that the landing is certain even if all the sensors and two of its engines do not work. The Vikram lander is expected to descend on the moon on August 23.</p>

<p>Somnath was speaking during an interaction hosted by the non-profit organisation Disha Bharat, as he said that the design of the lander is such that it would be able to handle failures. The interaction was on the topic — 'Chandrayaan-3: Bharat's Pride Space Mission'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-completes-maiden-orbit-reduction-gets-closer-to-lunar-surface-622945">Chandrayaan-3 completes maiden orbit reduction, gets closer to Lunar surface</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Somanath said: "If everything fails, if all the sensors fail, nothing works, still it (Vikram) will make a landing. That's how it has been designed -- provided that the propulsion system works well."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission was launched on July 14 by the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 rocket. It is now placed in a 170 km by 4,313 km elliptical orbit around the moon and a series of manoeuvres are planned for August 9 and 17 to place it in a 100 km circular orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ISRO chief said on Monday that India's third lunar mission "Chandrayaan-3" is in good health. He said that its most critical phase will be the orbit determination process when the spacecraft starts moving closer to the moon from the 100 km circular orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-isro-releases-video-of-the-moon-captured-by-chandrayaan-3-as-it-enters-lunar-orbit-622908">ISRO releases video of the moon captured by Chandrayaan-3 as it enters lunar orbit</a></strong></p>

<p>Somanath told PTI: "Up to 100 km we do not see any difficulty. The issues are only an estimation of the position of the lander accurately from Earth. This measurement is a very critical measurement, we call it the orbit determination process. If it is correct, the rest of the process can be done."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are able to bring it down very correctly this time. The orbit changes are happening as planned. There is no deviation. So, it shows excellent results and we are hoping that all will be fine," the ISRO chairman added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath provided a big update on the Chandrayaan-3 mission on Tuesday (August 8) as he assured that Vikram lander will be able to make a soft-landing on the Moon's surface on August 23.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath provided a big update on the Chandrayaan-3 mission on Tuesday (August 8) as he assured that Vikram lander will be able to make a soft-landing on the Moon's surface on August 23. He claimed that the landing is certain even if all the sensors and two of its engines do not work. The Vikram lander is expected to descend on the moon on August 23. Somnath was speaking during an interaction hosted by the non-profit organisation Disha Bharat, as he said that the design of the lander is such that it would be able to handle failures. The interaction was on the topic — 'Chandrayaan-3: Bharat's Pride Space Mission'. Also read: Chandrayaan-3 completes maiden orbit reduction, gets closer to Lunar surface Somanath said: "If everything fails, if all the sensors fail, nothing works, still it (Vikram) will make a landing. That's how it has been designed -- provided that the propulsion system works well." The mission was launched on July 14 by the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 rocket. It is now placed in a 170 km by 4,313 km elliptical orbit around the moon and a series of manoeuvres are planned for August 9 and 17 to place it in a 100 km circular orbit. ISRO chief said on Monday that India's third lunar mission "Chandrayaan-3" is in good health. He said that its most critical phase will be the orbit determination process when the spacecraft starts moving closer to the moon from the 100 km circular orbit. Also read: ISRO releases video of the moon captured by Chandrayaan-3 as it enters lunar orbit Somanath told PTI: "Up to 100 km we do not see any difficulty. The issues are only an estimation of the position of the lander accurately from Earth. This measurement is a very critical measurement, we call it the orbit determination process. If it is correct, the rest of the process can be done." "We are able to bring it down very correctly this time. The orbit changes are happening as planned. There is no deviation. So, it shows excellent results and we are hoping that all will be fine," the ISRO chairman added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'If everything fails...': ISRO chief's BIG comment on Chandrayaan-3 landing on August 23

<p>The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences. This comes after last month's alert that it was on track to become the world's hottest month on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world is witnessing extreme climatic conditions as some regions are battered with heavy rains and subsequent floods, and other parts of the world are facing extreme heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Samantha Burgess, who is Deputy Director of the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service, said: "It has not been this warm, combining observational records and paleoclimate records, for the last 120,000 years."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The global average temperature for July 2023 is confirmed to be the highest on record for any month -- the month is estimated to have been around 1.5 degrees warmer than the average for 1850 to 1900," said Burgess.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-ice-in-antarctica-reaches-new-lows-scientists-warn-no-quick-fix-623581">As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The official report noted that ERA5 data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service shows that July 2023 was the hottest month on record globally and broke several records within the month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the hottest June on record and a series of extreme weather events, including heatwaves in Europe, North America and Asia, and wildfires in Canada and Greece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, the month started with the daily global mean surface air temperature record being broken for four days in a row, from July 3-6.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further mentioned that all days throughout the rest of July were hotter than the previous record of 16.80°C, set on 13 August 2016, making the 29 days from July 3-31 the hottest 29 days on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-a-248-million-years-old-marine-reptile-that-shared-this-curious-similarity-to-whales-623510">Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The hottest day was July 6, when the global average temperature reached 17.08°C, and the values recorded on&nbsp;July 5 and 7 were within 0.01°C of this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report by Copernicus Climate Change Service, temperatures also temporarily exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above the preindustrial level during the first and third weeks of the month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, Carlo Buontempo, Director of C3S, comments: "Record-breaking temperatures are part of the trend of drastic increases in global temperatures. Anthropogenic emissions are ultimately the main driver of these rising temperatures."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Buontempo added, "July's record is unlikely to remain isolated this year, C3S' seasonal forecasts indicate that over land areas temperatures are likely to be well above average."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences.

The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences. This comes after last month's alert that it was on track to become the world's hottest month on record. The world is witnessing extreme climatic conditions as some regions are battered with heavy rains and subsequent floods, and other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. Meanwhile, Samantha Burgess, who is Deputy Director of the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service, said: "It has not been this warm, combining observational records and paleoclimate records, for the last 120,000 years." "The global average temperature for July 2023 is confirmed to be the highest on record for any month -- the month is estimated to have been around 1.5 degrees warmer than the average for 1850 to 1900," said Burgess. Also read: As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix' The official report noted that ERA5 data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service shows that July 2023 was the hottest month on record globally and broke several records within the month. This comes after the hottest June on record and a series of extreme weather events, including heatwaves in Europe, North America and Asia, and wildfires in Canada and Greece. According to the report, the month started with the daily global mean surface air temperature record being broken for four days in a row, from July 3-6. It further mentioned that all days throughout the rest of July were hotter than the previous record of 16.80°C, set on 13 August 2016, making the 29 days from July 3-31 the hottest 29 days on record. Also read: Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales The hottest day was July 6, when the global average temperature reached 17.08°C, and the values recorded on July 5 and 7 were within 0.01°C of this. According to the report by Copernicus Climate Change Service, temperatures also temporarily exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above the preindustrial level during the first and third weeks of the month. As quoted, Carlo Buontempo, Director of C3S, comments: "Record-breaking temperatures are part of the trend of drastic increases in global temperatures. Anthropogenic emissions are ultimately the main driver of these rising temperatures." Buontempo added, "July's record is unlikely to remain isolated this year, C3S' seasonal forecasts indicate that over land areas temperatures are likely to be well above average." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU scientists say July was world's hottest on record

<p>A mysterious eight-foot totem pole emerged out of nowhere along a path on the North Downs Way between Dover and Folkestone in the United Kingdom, and the locals are wondering what is it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Kent Live mentioned that the pole has been carved from a single tree. It is inscribed with the name Perkūnas, which&nbsp;is a Baltic god of sky, thunder, and lightning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local media reports said that the Dover District Council told the Kent Wildlife Trust to ask the retroactive planning permission whether or not they wish to keep the totem pole. But no one knows who created it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/teslas-purrfect-twist-musks-company-rolls-out-cardboard-cybertruck-cat-beds-in-china-623780">Tesla's 'purr'fect twist: Musk's company rolls out cardboard 'cybertruck' cat beds in China</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Reports have also stated that people are speculating that the wooden monolith is a work of pranksters, some even say it is done by aliens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wildlife trust also appealed to the locals to find the artist of the totem pole standing at the nature reserve in Capel-Le-Ferne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Area Manager Ian Rickards, "The artist behind this would have spent hours painstakingly carving out the details and we are keen to keep it on our reserve."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The artwork seems to be a hit with the walkers who have taken selfies and congratulated us on the installation, but we had no idea how it came to be there – it's a 'Totem' mystery!"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unusual-wildlife-encounter-texas-woman-simultaneously-attacked-by-hawk-and-snake-623710">Texas woman finds herself caught in an intense tussle with a hawk &amp; a snake</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And here we have it, the stand-out news story of 2023: mysterious unscheduled idol of Perkūnas appears on Kent coast 🇱🇹🔥🐍🌳 <a href="https://t.co/7s6SfmQIiA">https://t.co/7s6SfmQIiA</a></p>
— Dr Francis Young (@DrFrancisYoung) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrFrancisYoung/status/1688077847573762048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rickards said, "The local council has given us eight weeks to submit planning permission and it would be great to track down the person behind Perkūnas to get a bit more detail so we can keep it. The planning application will incur a cost to the Trust, so if anyone would like to make a donation to help fund the process, it would be gratefully received."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by The Guardian, Rickards also said that he would like to believe that someone was "invoking this god to protect the birds nesting on the chalk cliffs in the recent wet and windy weather".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rickards added that he assumes the totem was placed there to protect recently reintroduced red-billed choughs, birds which were not seen in the wild in Kent for over 200 years.&nbsp;</p>

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A mysterious eight-foot totem pole emerged out of nowhere along a path on the North Downs Way between Dover and Folkestone in the United Kingdom, and the locals are wondering what is it.

A mysterious eight-foot totem pole emerged out of nowhere along a path on the North Downs Way between Dover and Folkestone in the United Kingdom, and the locals are wondering what is it. A report by Kent Live mentioned that the pole has been carved from a single tree. It is inscribed with the name Perkūnas, which is a Baltic god of sky, thunder, and lightning. Local media reports said that the Dover District Council told the Kent Wildlife Trust to ask the retroactive planning permission whether or not they wish to keep the totem pole. But no one knows who created it. Also read: Tesla's 'purr'fect twist: Musk's company rolls out cardboard 'cybertruck' cat beds in China Reports have also stated that people are speculating that the wooden monolith is a work of pranksters, some even say it is done by aliens. The wildlife trust also appealed to the locals to find the artist of the totem pole standing at the nature reserve in Capel-Le-Ferne. According to the Area Manager Ian Rickards, "The artist behind this would have spent hours painstakingly carving out the details and we are keen to keep it on our reserve." He said, "The artwork seems to be a hit with the walkers who have taken selfies and congratulated us on the installation, but we had no idea how it came to be there – it's a 'Totem' mystery!" Also read: Texas woman finds herself caught in an intense tussle with a hawk & a snake And here we have it, the stand-out news story of 2023: mysterious unscheduled idol of Perkūnas appears on Kent coast 🇱🇹🔥🐍🌳 https://t.co/7s6SfmQIiA — Dr Francis Young (@DrFrancisYoung) August 6, 2023 × Rickards said, "The local council has given us eight weeks to submit planning permission and it would be great to track down the person behind Perkūnas to get a bit more detail so we can keep it. The planning application will incur a cost to the Trust, so if anyone would like to make a donation to help fund the process, it would be gratefully received." As quoted by The Guardian, Rickards also said that he would like to believe that someone was "invoking this god to protect the birds nesting on the chalk cliffs in the recent wet and windy weather". Rickards added that he assumes the totem was placed there to protect recently reintroduced red-billed choughs, birds which were not seen in the wild in Kent for over 200 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A Totem mystery! An 8-foot totem pole appeared overnight in Kent and no one knows who put it there

<p>A fire incident on Wednesday (August 9) at a centre housing holidaying adults with learning difficulties killed nine people in eastern France, the fire brigade said. Local reports have mentioned that as many as 11 people were there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The holiday home is located in the town of Wintzenheim, about 70 km (50 miles) south of Strasbourg. The house was rented by a charity that takes care of people with learning disabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-shipwreck-in-central-mediterranean-claims-lives-of-41-623866">Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The local prefecture said that seventeen people were evacuated, one of whom was sent to hospital. It further said that those missing were from a group of people from the city of Nancy, a two-hour drive away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Philippe Hauwiller, who is leading the fire brigade search operation, told the news agency AFP that they have "located nine bodies and we are still looking for two".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-nations-fail-to-agree-on-deforestation-goal-at-summit-623832">Amazon nations fail to agree on deforestation goal at summit despite Brazil’s push</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Deputy Mayor Daniel Leroy said earlier three bodies had been found using a drone but others were found with direct searches and with dogs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agency Reuters, Secretary-General of Haut Rhine Prefecture, Christophe Marot said, "The fire has been extinguished, as you can see there is still smoke. We are putting out the smoke so that the investigation can start".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marot said that one of these 17 people is slightly injured and has been hospitalised and is in shock.&nbsp;</p>

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A fire incident on Wednesday (August 9) at a centre housing holidaying adults with learning difficulties killed nine people in eastern France, the fire brigade said.

A fire incident on Wednesday (August 9) at a centre housing holidaying adults with learning difficulties killed nine people in eastern France, the fire brigade said. Local reports have mentioned that as many as 11 people were there. The holiday home is located in the town of Wintzenheim, about 70 km (50 miles) south of Strasbourg. The house was rented by a charity that takes care of people with learning disabilities. Also read: Migrant shipwreck in central Mediterranean claims lives of 41 The local prefecture said that seventeen people were evacuated, one of whom was sent to hospital. It further said that those missing were from a group of people from the city of Nancy, a two-hour drive away. Philippe Hauwiller, who is leading the fire brigade search operation, told the news agency AFP that they have "located nine bodies and we are still looking for two". Also read: Amazon nations fail to agree on deforestation goal at summit despite Brazil’s push Deputy Mayor Daniel Leroy said earlier three bodies had been found using a drone but others were found with direct searches and with dogs. As quoted by news agency Reuters, Secretary-General of Haut Rhine Prefecture, Christophe Marot said, "The fire has been extinguished, as you can see there is still smoke. We are putting out the smoke so that the investigation can start". Marot said that one of these 17 people is slightly injured and has been hospitalised and is in shock. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France: At least nine dead in fire at holiday home for disabled people

<p>Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday (August 9) called Rahul Gandhi a "misogynist" while she was responding&nbsp;to the Congress leader on the issue of Manipur in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Gandhi's fiery speech, Irani responded to the current situation of Manipur and also raised issues of 1984 anti-Sikh riots and unrest in Kashmir when the Congress regime was at the Centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also accused Gandhi of blowing a flying kiss to the area of parliament that seats female members. She said that his action lacks dignity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her address, Irani said, "I object to something. The one who was given the chance to speak before displayed indecency before leaving."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament. Such undignified conduct was never before seen in the Parliament of the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>This video appears to show&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi blowing a kiss:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In this video MP Rahul Gandhi can be showing blowing 'Flying Kiss'. <a href="https://t.co/5XnHWHQwkD">pic.twitter.com/5XnHWHQwkD</a></p>
— Facts (@BefittingFacts) <a href="https://twitter.com/BefittingFacts/status/1689202470164312064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Minister Smriti Irani on Congress MP Rahul Gandhi<br />
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"Never before has the misogynistic behaviour of a man been so visible in Parliament as what was done by Rahul Gandhi today. When the House of the People, where laws are made to protect the dignity of women, during… <a href="https://t.co/eOsMl3I5zy">pic.twitter.com/eOsMl3I5zy</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689197802637897728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Minister and BJP MP Smriti Irani says, "I object to something. The one who was given the chance to speak before me displayed indecency before leaving. It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament.… <a href="https://t.co/xjEePHKPKN">pic.twitter.com/xjEePHKPKN</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689185942798802944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad says, "He gives a flying kiss. What has happened to Rahul Gandhi? So many women are seated there (in the House). He has no manners. It is very painful..." <a href="https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw">https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ta3xZq7l9P">pic.twitter.com/Ta3xZq7l9P</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689196132097024000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Union minister Shobha Karandlaje and a few other women BJP MPs have complained to Speaker Om Birla against Gandhi for blowing a flying kiss inside Lok Sabha. They wrote a letter accusing him of insulting women members of the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karandlaje said, "This is the first time we have seen such behaviour from an MP in the House. He made a gesture of a flying kiss at women MPs in the House....It is unacceptable. We have complained to the Speaker to take action against him."&nbsp;</p>

<p>BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said,&nbsp;"He gives a flying kiss. What has happened to Rahul Gandhi? So many women are seated there (in the House). He has no manners. It is very painful..."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday (August 9) called Rahul Gandhi a "misogynist" while she was responding to the Congress leader on the issue of Manipur in the parliament.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday (August 9) called Rahul Gandhi a "misogynist" while she was responding to the Congress leader on the issue of Manipur in the parliament. After Gandhi's fiery speech, Irani responded to the current situation of Manipur and also raised issues of 1984 anti-Sikh riots and unrest in Kashmir when the Congress regime was at the Centre. She also accused Gandhi of blowing a flying kiss to the area of parliament that seats female members. She said that his action lacks dignity. In her address, Irani said, "I object to something. The one who was given the chance to speak before displayed indecency before leaving." "It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament. Such undignified conduct was never before seen in the Parliament of the country." This video appears to show Rahul Gandhi blowing a kiss: In this video MP Rahul Gandhi can be showing blowing 'Flying Kiss'. pic.twitter.com/5XnHWHQwkD — Facts (@BefittingFacts) August 9, 2023 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. #WATCH | Union Minister Smriti Irani on Congress MP Rahul Gandhi "Never before has the misogynistic behaviour of a man been so visible in Parliament as what was done by Rahul Gandhi today. When the House of the People, where laws are made to protect the dignity of women, during… pic.twitter.com/eOsMl3I5zy — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2023 × #WATCH | Union Minister and BJP MP Smriti Irani says, "I object to something. The one who was given the chance to speak before me displayed indecency before leaving. It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament.… pic.twitter.com/xjEePHKPKN — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2023 × #WATCH | BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad says, "He gives a flying kiss. What has happened to Rahul Gandhi? So many women are seated there (in the House). He has no manners. It is very painful..." https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw pic.twitter.com/Ta3xZq7l9P — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2023 × Union minister Shobha Karandlaje and a few other women BJP MPs have complained to Speaker Om Birla against Gandhi for blowing a flying kiss inside Lok Sabha. They wrote a letter accusing him of insulting women members of the parliament. Karandlaje said, "This is the first time we have seen such behaviour from an MP in the House. He made a gesture of a flying kiss at women MPs in the House....It is unacceptable. We have complained to the Speaker to take action against him." BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "He gives a flying kiss. What has happened to Rahul Gandhi? So many women are seated there (in the House). He has no manners. It is very painful..." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH: Smriti Irani calls Rahul Gandhi 'misogynist' after he apparently blows a flying kiss in parliament

<p>Neville Roy Singham is a US-based millionaire who is accused of funding a financial network to push the Chinese agenda globally. He is the founder and former chairman of ThoughtWorks, which&nbsp;is an IT consulting company that provides custom software, software tools, and consulting services. But he sold it to a private equity firm in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why is 'Singham' in the news?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>An investigative report by The New York Times said, "In New Delhi, corporate filings show, Singham's network financed a news site, NewsClick, that sprinkled its coverage with Chinese government talking points. 'China's history continues to inspire the working classes,' one video said."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report titled, "A Global Web of Chinese Propaganda Leads to a US Tech Mogul", claimed that the news portal was part of a global network that received funding from American millionaire Singham, who allegedly works closely with the Chinese government media machine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-border-infrastructure-strengthened-to-address-lac-challenges-eam-jaishankar-623148">India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who is Neville Roy Singham?&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>He was born on 13&nbsp;May 1954. Reports have mentioned that he spent hundreds of millions of dollars to fund various progressive causes and groups, such as Nkrumah School, Socialist Revolutionary Workers Party, and New Frame news in South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But some critics accuse him of hiding his money behind shell firms and supporting the agenda of the Chinese government, like promoting Beijing's stance on the Uyghur genocide, resistance to assisting Ukraine in the war, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He attended Howard University. He was a strategic technical consultant for Huawei from 2001 to 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At one time, around 2008, his consulting company ThoughtWorks employed 1,000 people and was growing at the rate of 20–30 per cent&nbsp;per annum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It had bases in different places across the world and its clients included Microsoft, Oracle, major banks, and The Guardian newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NYT report mentioned that Singham is "working closely" with the "Chinese government media machine", which is spending "at least $275 million" in order to finance their worldwide propaganda, disguising it "as independent content".&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, his finance flows via "a tangle of nonprofit groups and shell companies" to groups such as "a think tank in Massachusetts ... an event space in Manhattan, ... a political party in South Africa ... news organizations in India and Brazil".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He apparently mixes together "progressive advocacy" with "Chinese government talking points".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Serious allegations against Congress</strong></h2>

<p>Union minister Anurag Thakur accused the Congress of alleged links between the tech mogul and Chinese propaganda, citing the same report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said that Congress defended Singham and NewsClick when they were being probed by law enforcement agencies in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, Thakur said: "Way back in the year 2021, when India's law enforcement agencies initiated an inquiry against NewsClick based on strong evidence of money laundering, the Congress and the entire Left-Liberal ecosystem came to defend it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Lok Sabha proceedings, another BJP leader Nishikant Dubey accused the Congress party of "collaborating with anti-nationals and China", citing the NYT report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He spoke while the proceeding was on and also accused Congress of taking money from China, with the aim of opposing the central government. He alleged that Congress leaders met the Chinese in 2016 to oppose the Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">राहुल की नफ़रत की दुकान चायनीज समान से भरी हुई है । कॉंग्रेस पार्टी की नीति चीन के साथ मिलकर भारत तोड़ने की है। कॉंग्रेस पार्टी के चीन के फ़ंडिंग की जाँच भारत सरकार के चुनाव आयोग को करके कॉंग्रेस की दुकान बंद करनी चाहिए <a href="https://t.co/hAvAHSxUBr">pic.twitter.com/hAvAHSxUBr</a></p>
— Dr Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) <a href="https://twitter.com/nishikant_dubey/status/1688445325814747138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dubey said in the parliament, "They want to divide India through Chinese forces and some media. Between 2005 and 2014, whenever there was a crisis, Congress received money from China."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In 2008, they had invited both Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. In 2016, they were talking to the Chinese during the Doklam crisis. He also took the names of Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh and Randeep Surjewala.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-delhi-services-bill-how-will-it-affect-national-capitals-governance-623158">What is Delhi Services Bill? How will it affect national capital's governance?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Opposition slams BJP&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While responding to the claims, the opposition asked how Dubey's mic was on throughout the proceeding and they also wrote a letter to the Speaker in this regard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the letter, Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury wrote, "When the Acting Chair was giving the floor to ministers to lay papers on the table, Shri Nishikant Dubey's microphone was switched on."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has written a letter to LS Speaker Om Birla regarding BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's comments in Lok Sabha today<br />
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"We demand under Rule 380 that his remarks be expunged in full and that an inquiry be conducted into how such an… <a href="https://t.co/JgYsOKRG6l">pic.twitter.com/JgYsOKRG6l</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1688451420868222976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"He proceeded to level libellous and defamatory charges against the Congress Party and Shri Rahul Gandhi, a member of the House, without having given any notice, let alone taken the permission of the Chair. His allegations were a flagrant violation of Rule 353 of the Rules of Procedure ad Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Neville Roy Singham is a US-based millionaire who is accused of funding a financial network to push the Chinese agenda globally. He is the founder and former chairman of ThoughtWorks, which is an IT consulting company that provides custom software, software tools, and consulting services.

Neville Roy Singham is a US-based millionaire who is accused of funding a financial network to push the Chinese agenda globally. He is the founder and former chairman of ThoughtWorks, which is an IT consulting company that provides custom software, software tools, and consulting services. But he sold it to a private equity firm in 2017. Why is 'Singham' in the news? An investigative report by The New York Times said, "In New Delhi, corporate filings show, Singham's network financed a news site, NewsClick, that sprinkled its coverage with Chinese government talking points. 'China's history continues to inspire the working classes,' one video said." The report titled, "A Global Web of Chinese Propaganda Leads to a US Tech Mogul", claimed that the news portal was part of a global network that received funding from American millionaire Singham, who allegedly works closely with the Chinese government media machine. Also read: India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar Who is Neville Roy Singham? He was born on 13 May 1954. Reports have mentioned that he spent hundreds of millions of dollars to fund various progressive causes and groups, such as Nkrumah School, Socialist Revolutionary Workers Party, and New Frame news in South Africa. But some critics accuse him of hiding his money behind shell firms and supporting the agenda of the Chinese government, like promoting Beijing's stance on the Uyghur genocide, resistance to assisting Ukraine in the war, and more. He attended Howard University. He was a strategic technical consultant for Huawei from 2001 to 2008. At one time, around 2008, his consulting company ThoughtWorks employed 1,000 people and was growing at the rate of 20–30 per cent per annum. It had bases in different places across the world and its clients included Microsoft, Oracle, major banks, and The Guardian newspaper. The NYT report mentioned that Singham is "working closely" with the "Chinese government media machine", which is spending "at least $275 million" in order to finance their worldwide propaganda, disguising it "as independent content". According to the report, his finance flows via "a tangle of nonprofit groups and shell companies" to groups such as "a think tank in Massachusetts ... an event space in Manhattan, ... a political party in South Africa ... news organizations in India and Brazil". He apparently mixes together "progressive advocacy" with "Chinese government talking points". Watch this report: × Serious allegations against Congress Union minister Anurag Thakur accused the Congress of alleged links between the tech mogul and Chinese propaganda, citing the same report. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said that Congress defended Singham and NewsClick when they were being probed by law enforcement agencies in 2021. In a post on X, Thakur said: "Way back in the year 2021, when India's law enforcement agencies initiated an inquiry against NewsClick based on strong evidence of money laundering, the Congress and the entire Left-Liberal ecosystem came to defend it." During the Lok Sabha proceedings, another BJP leader Nishikant Dubey accused the Congress party of "collaborating with anti-nationals and China", citing the NYT report. He spoke while the proceeding was on and also accused Congress of taking money from China, with the aim of opposing the central government. He alleged that Congress leaders met the Chinese in 2016 to oppose the Modi government. राहुल की नफ़रत की दुकान चायनीज समान से भरी हुई है । कॉंग्रेस पार्टी की नीति चीन के साथ मिलकर भारत तोड़ने की है। कॉंग्रेस पार्टी के चीन के फ़ंडिंग की जाँच भारत सरकार के चुनाव आयोग को करके कॉंग्रेस की दुकान बंद करनी चाहिए pic.twitter.com/hAvAHSxUBr — Dr Nishikant Dubey (@nishikant_dubey) August 7, 2023 × Dubey said in the parliament, "They want to divide India through Chinese forces and some media. Between 2005 and 2014, whenever there was a crisis, Congress received money from China." "In 2008, they had invited both Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. In 2016, they were talking to the Chinese during the Doklam crisis. He also took the names of Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh and Randeep Surjewala. Also read: What is Delhi Services Bill? How will it affect national capital's governance? Opposition slams BJP While responding to the claims, the opposition asked how Dubey's mic was on throughout the proceeding and they also wrote a letter to the Speaker in this regard. In the letter, Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury wrote, "When the Acting Chair was giving the floor to ministers to lay papers on the table, Shri Nishikant Dubey's microphone was switched on." Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has written a letter to LS Speaker Om Birla regarding BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's comments in Lok Sabha today "We demand under Rule 380 that his remarks be expunged in full and that an inquiry be conducted into how such an… pic.twitter.com/JgYsOKRG6l — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2023 × "He proceeded to level libellous and defamatory charges against the Congress Party and Shri Rahul Gandhi, a member of the House, without having given any notice, let alone taken the permission of the Chair. His allegations were a flagrant violation of Rule 353 of the Rules of Procedure ad Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Neville Roy Singham? How is he promoting Chinese propaganda across the world?

<p>Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A CNN report mentioned that four senior US and Western officials briefed on the latest intelligence told the US-based media outlet that they described&nbsp;increasingly "sobering" assessments about the ability of the Ukrainian forces to retake significant territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior Western diplomat told CNN that "they're still going to see, for the next couple of weeks, if there is a chance of making some progress. But for them to really make progress that would change the balance of this conflict, I think, it's extremely, highly unlikely."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-killed-31-injured-after-two-russian-missiles-strike-ukrainian-city-623255">At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted, Rep. Mike Quigley, an Illinois Democrat, said: "Our briefings are sobering. We're reminded of the challenges they face."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quigley, who recently returned from meetings in Europe with US commanders training Ukrainian armored force,s said "this is the most difficult time of the war".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned the issues for Ukrainian forces as it noted that breaking through Russia's defensive lines in the eastern and southern parts is quite challenging. Tens of thousands of mines, and vast networks of trenches are not making their way wearier.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-again-asks-philippines-to-remove-grounded-ship-from-disputed-waters-623551">China again asks Philippines to remove grounded ship from disputed waters</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A senior Western diplomat said, "Russians have a number of defensive lines and they [Ukrainian forces] haven't really gone through the first line".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said, "even if they would keep on fighting for the next several weeks, if they haven't been able to make more breakthroughs throughout these last seven, eight weeks, what is the likelihood that they will suddenly, with more depleted forces, make them? Because the conditions are so hard."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia hits Ukrainian command post</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Russia's defence ministry said on Tuesday (August 8) that its forces had hit a Ukrainian command post in the eastern Ukrainian region of Pokrovsk, known as Krasnoarmeysk in Russia.</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials said Russian missiles had struck the city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night, destroying a popular hotel and apartments, killing at least seven people including rescuers, and wounding scores.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Russian missiles strike a hotel and apartments</strong></h2>

<p>Russian missile strikes on the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night shook the war-torn nation and destroyed a popular hotel and apartments. At least 15 people were killed and scores were wounded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said seven people, including five civilians, were killed. Overnight, regional officials said that eight people had died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klymenko said on the Telegram messaging app: "We are resuming clearing the rubble. At night, we were forced to suspend work due to the high threat of repeated shelling."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups.

Ukraine claimed in recent weeks that its counteroffensive is underway and also said that the nation was making advances on all fronts despite consistent Russian attacks, but there are some evident hiccups. A CNN report mentioned that four senior US and Western officials briefed on the latest intelligence told the US-based media outlet that they described increasingly "sobering" assessments about the ability of the Ukrainian forces to retake significant territory. A senior Western diplomat told CNN that "they're still going to see, for the next couple of weeks, if there is a chance of making some progress. But for them to really make progress that would change the balance of this conflict, I think, it's extremely, highly unlikely." Also read: At least 8 killed, 31 injured after two Russian missiles strike Ukrainian city As quoted, Rep. Mike Quigley, an Illinois Democrat, said: "Our briefings are sobering. We're reminded of the challenges they face." Quigley, who recently returned from meetings in Europe with US commanders training Ukrainian armored force,s said "this is the most difficult time of the war". The report mentioned the issues for Ukrainian forces as it noted that breaking through Russia's defensive lines in the eastern and southern parts is quite challenging. Tens of thousands of mines, and vast networks of trenches are not making their way wearier. Also read: China again asks Philippines to remove grounded ship from disputed waters A senior Western diplomat said, "Russians have a number of defensive lines and they [Ukrainian forces] haven't really gone through the first line". The official said, "even if they would keep on fighting for the next several weeks, if they haven't been able to make more breakthroughs throughout these last seven, eight weeks, what is the likelihood that they will suddenly, with more depleted forces, make them? Because the conditions are so hard." Russia hits Ukrainian command post Russia's defence ministry said on Tuesday (August 8) that its forces had hit a Ukrainian command post in the eastern Ukrainian region of Pokrovsk, known as Krasnoarmeysk in Russia. Ukrainian officials said Russian missiles had struck the city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night, destroying a popular hotel and apartments, killing at least seven people including rescuers, and wounding scores. Watch this report: × Russian missiles strike a hotel and apartments Russian missile strikes on the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk twice on Monday night shook the war-torn nation and destroyed a popular hotel and apartments. At least 15 people were killed and scores were wounded. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said seven people, including five civilians, were killed. Overnight, regional officials said that eight people had died. Klymenko said on the Telegram messaging app: "We are resuming clearing the rubble. At night, we were forced to suspend work due to the high threat of repeated shelling." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive

<p>China on Tuesday (August 8) again asked the Philippines to remove an ageing World War II-era ship from a disputed shoal. The recent calls come after Manila rejected Beijing's earlier demand. The mentioned shoal is a reef that Manila uses to press its stake in the Spratly Islands against Beijing's claim to nearly the entire South China Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tensions have been simmering between the two nations after the Chinese coastguard ships fired water cannons at vessels supplying troops stationed there over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The disputed reef is known as the Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines and Renai Shoal in China. Beijing claims that the disputed reef has been occupied by the Philippines since 1999.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In that year, the BRP Sierra Madre was deliberately grounded in an effort to check the advance of China in the hotly contested waters. But it remains a flashpoint between Manila and Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official said that Manila will "never abandon" the Philippine-held shoal. National Security Council spokesman Jonathan Malaya told reporters that "for the record, we will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal".&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e7827b3-fded-492d-8066-08adee2d53f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/world%20war%20II%20vessel.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>(Image credit:&nbsp;BRP Sierra Madre, a dilapidated Philippine Navy ship that has been aground since 1999 is pictured on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands, in the South China Sea March 29, 2014.)</strong></em></p>

<p>Meanwhile, China has targeted the United States as its embassy in Manila slammed Washington for "gathering" its allies to continue "hyping up" the South China Sea issue and the boat incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement on Tuesday, the embassy said: "The South China Sea is not a 'safari park' for countries outside the region to make mischief and sow discord."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-report-says-atrocities-and-war-crimes-by-myanmars-military-more-frequent-and-brazen-623535">UN report says atrocities and war crimes by Myanmar's military 'more frequent and brazen'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The water cannon incident on August 5 came after Manila repeatedly accused the Chinese coastguard of blocking resupply missions to its troops there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Beijing has defended its actions as "professional" and accused Manila of "illegal delivery of construction materials" to the grounded ship.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China objects to 'Vasudhahva Kutumbkam' mention in G20 papers&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said Tuesday: "The Philippine side has repeatedly made clear promises to tow away the warship illegally 'stranded' on the reef."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Twenty-four years have passed, the Philippine side has not only failed to tow away the warship but also attempted to repair and reinforce it on a large scale to achieve permanent occupation of the Ren'ai Reef," they said, using the Chinese term for the Second Thomas Shoal.</p>

<p>"The Chinese side once again urges the Philippines to immediately tow away the 'stranded' warship from the Ren'ai Reef and restore the status of no one and no facilities on the reef," they said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-taliban-couldnt-silence-her-this-exiled-afghan-journo-is-changing-lives-one-story-at-a-time-623453">Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Here's what the Philippines said</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Philippine foreign ministry said Tuesday the "permanent station" on Second Thomas Shoal was in response to China's "illegal occupation" of nearby Mischief Reef in 1995.</p>

<p>"The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws," the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China on Tuesday (August 8) again asked the Philippines to remove an ageing World War II-era ship from a disputed shoal. The recent calls come after Manila rejected Beijing's earlier demand.

China on Tuesday (August 8) again asked the Philippines to remove an ageing World War II-era ship from a disputed shoal. The recent calls come after Manila rejected Beijing's earlier demand. The mentioned shoal is a reef that Manila uses to press its stake in the Spratly Islands against Beijing's claim to nearly the entire South China Sea. Tensions have been simmering between the two nations after the Chinese coastguard ships fired water cannons at vessels supplying troops stationed there over the weekend. The disputed reef is known as the Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines and Renai Shoal in China. Beijing claims that the disputed reef has been occupied by the Philippines since 1999. In that year, the BRP Sierra Madre was deliberately grounded in an effort to check the advance of China in the hotly contested waters. But it remains a flashpoint between Manila and Beijing. An official said that Manila will "never abandon" the Philippine-held shoal. National Security Council spokesman Jonathan Malaya told reporters that "for the record, we will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal". (Image credit: BRP Sierra Madre, a dilapidated Philippine Navy ship that has been aground since 1999 is pictured on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands, in the South China Sea March 29, 2014.) Meanwhile, China has targeted the United States as its embassy in Manila slammed Washington for "gathering" its allies to continue "hyping up" the South China Sea issue and the boat incident. In a statement on Tuesday, the embassy said: "The South China Sea is not a 'safari park' for countries outside the region to make mischief and sow discord." Also read: UN report says atrocities and war crimes by Myanmar's military 'more frequent and brazen' The water cannon incident on August 5 came after Manila repeatedly accused the Chinese coastguard of blocking resupply missions to its troops there. But Beijing has defended its actions as "professional" and accused Manila of "illegal delivery of construction materials" to the grounded ship. Watch: China objects to 'Vasudhahva Kutumbkam' mention in G20 papers × A spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said Tuesday: "The Philippine side has repeatedly made clear promises to tow away the warship illegally 'stranded' on the reef." "Twenty-four years have passed, the Philippine side has not only failed to tow away the warship but also attempted to repair and reinforce it on a large scale to achieve permanent occupation of the Ren'ai Reef," they said, using the Chinese term for the Second Thomas Shoal. "The Chinese side once again urges the Philippines to immediately tow away the 'stranded' warship from the Ren'ai Reef and restore the status of no one and no facilities on the reef," they said. Also read: Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time Here's what the Philippines said The Philippine foreign ministry said Tuesday the "permanent station" on Second Thomas Shoal was in response to China's "illegal occupation" of nearby Mischief Reef in 1995. "The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China again asks Philippines to remove grounded ship from disputed waters

<p>Indian Army has released a video which&nbsp;shows how they foiled an infiltration attempt by terrorists and their conspiracy to revive activities in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, along the Line of Control (LOC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials said have said that a self-styled divisional commander of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-kills-top-commander-of-hizb-ul-mujahideen-in-poonch-operation-623217">Hizbul Mujahideen outfit was killed</a> along with his bodyguard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video shared by the Army showed the two men crossing into India. The video was captured by thermal cameras, which have been installed for better patrolling near the border areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The terrorists were seen walking under the cover of dark through a dense forest along the LoC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1989-neelkanth-ganjoo-murder-case-fresh-probe-into-killing-of-kashmiri-pandit-judge-623247">1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Lt Col Bartwal said&nbsp;Hussain is a resident of Bagyladra village of Poonch, and was a self-styled Divisional Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In 1993, he went to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) for arms training and came back three years later. He has masterminded a number of attacks on Security Forces before returning to PoK in 1998,"&nbsp;the officer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Army says it neutralised one terrorist, and thwarted an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district<br />
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For more news and updates, visit <a href="https://t.co/OuoWRogxx7">https://t.co/OuoWRogxx7</a> <a href="https://t.co/kPhlb4olQf">pic.twitter.com/kPhlb4olQf</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1688571256227184641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The officials said that the body of Hizbul commander Muneser Hussain was recovered along with a huge cache of arms and ammunition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His bodyguard's body could not be retrieved as he managed to return to the other side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the Degwar sector before falling to the ground. He is presumed dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-border-infrastructure-strengthened-to-address-lac-challenges-eam-jaishankar-623148">India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch Vinay Sharma told reporters: "We have been receiving inputs (about terrorists) in recent times and launched a specific operation, leading to the killing of one terrorist and injuries to another who, however, managed to return across the border."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As per our records, the slain terrorist was active since 1996 and was divisional commander of Hizbul Mujahideen," Sharma added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Sharma, Hussain was assigned the task of&nbsp;reviving militancy and regrouping isolated terrorists operating in the region with the intention to disturb peace and tranquillity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SSP said: "His elimination scuttled the nefarious designs of the enemy nation (to revive militancy and disturb peace). We are getting a lot of support from the civil population and are sure to make Poonch militancy free soon."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Indian Army has released a video which shows how they foiled an infiltration attempt by terrorists and their conspiracy to revive activities in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, along the Line of Control (LOC).

Indian Army has released a video which shows how they foiled an infiltration attempt by terrorists and their conspiracy to revive activities in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, along the Line of Control (LOC). Officials said have said that a self-styled divisional commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen outfit was killed along with his bodyguard. A video shared by the Army showed the two men crossing into India. The video was captured by thermal cameras, which have been installed for better patrolling near the border areas. The terrorists were seen walking under the cover of dark through a dense forest along the LoC. Also read: 1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge Lt Col Bartwal said Hussain is a resident of Bagyladra village of Poonch, and was a self-styled Divisional Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen. "In 1993, he went to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) for arms training and came back three years later. He has masterminded a number of attacks on Security Forces before returning to PoK in 1998," the officer said. Watch the video here: Indian Army says it neutralised one terrorist, and thwarted an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district For more news and updates, visit https://t.co/OuoWRogxx7 pic.twitter.com/kPhlb4olQf — WION (@WIONews) August 7, 2023 × The officials said that the body of Hizbul commander Muneser Hussain was recovered along with a huge cache of arms and ammunition. His bodyguard's body could not be retrieved as he managed to return to the other side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the Degwar sector before falling to the ground. He is presumed dead. Also read: India's border infrastructure strengthened to address LAC challenges: EAM Jaishankar Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch Vinay Sharma told reporters: "We have been receiving inputs (about terrorists) in recent times and launched a specific operation, leading to the killing of one terrorist and injuries to another who, however, managed to return across the border." "As per our records, the slain terrorist was active since 1996 and was divisional commander of Hizbul Mujahideen," Sharma added. According to Sharma, Hussain was assigned the task of reviving militancy and regrouping isolated terrorists operating in the region with the intention to disturb peace and tranquillity. The SSP said: "His elimination scuttled the nefarious designs of the enemy nation (to revive militancy and disturb peace). We are getting a lot of support from the civil population and are sure to make Poonch militancy free soon." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE h You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH: Thermal cameras help Indian Army nab terrorists conspiring to revive terror activities in J&K

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