Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister, was ordered by an Islamabad high court on Tuesday to appear before the tribunal the next week (August 31) to address contempt charges arising from his verbal threats against a female judge during his rally.

At his rally, Khan vowed to file proceedings against Islamabad’s inspector general of police and deputy inspector general of police, saying, "We won’t spare you." He also issued a grave warning to district judge Zeba Chaudhry.

The Islamabad court, after the rally, initiated contempt of court proceedings against the former prime minister on Monday (August 21) for "threatening" additional Session Judge Zeba Chaudhry during his address in Islamabad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-pakistan-pm-khan-says-no-rule-of-law-in-country-vows-to-sue-police-and-judiciary-509260">Ex-Pakistan PM Khan says no 'rule of law' in country, vows to sue police and judiciary</a>

A three-judge panel, headed by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, also requested the former leader to appear in person before the panel on the same day. The PTI chairman’s comments were deemed "inappropriate" by Kayani during the hearing.

Kayani said, "Imran is consistently giving remarks against the judiciary and the ECP. This should come to a stop," PTI reported.

Last week, Imran was detained in accordance with Section 7 of the Anti-terrorism Act. The case was registered at Islamabad’s Margalla Police Station.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mob-charges-at-hindu-mans-house-over-fake-blasphemy-case-509043">Pakistan: Mob charges at Hindu man's house over fake blasphemy case</a>

Khan’s attorneys submitted a petition to the Islamabad High Court asking for pre-arrest bail on his behalf. A two-judge panel of Justices Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Babar Sattar took the case under consideration.

After deliberating, the judge granted him protected bail until August 25 and instructed him to go before an approaching anti-terrorism court by then.

The former prime minister, after being ousted, has been continuously attacking strong organisations and leaders.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister, was ordered by an Islamabad high court on Tuesday to appear before the tribunal the next week (August 31) to address contempt charges arising from his verbal threats against a female judge during his rally.

Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister, was ordered by an Islamabad high court on Tuesday to appear before the tribunal the next week (August 31) to address contempt charges arising from his verbal threats against a female judge during his rally. At his rally, Khan vowed to file proceedings against Islamabad’s inspector general of police and deputy inspector general of police, saying, "We won’t spare you." He also issued a grave warning to district judge Zeba Chaudhry. The Islamabad court, after the rally, initiated contempt of court proceedings against the former prime minister on Monday (August 21) for "threatening" additional Session Judge Zeba Chaudhry during his address in Islamabad. Also read | Ex-Pakistan PM Khan says no 'rule of law' in country, vows to sue police and judiciary A three-judge panel, headed by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, also requested the former leader to appear in person before the panel on the same day. The PTI chairman’s comments were deemed "inappropriate" by Kayani during the hearing. Kayani said, "Imran is consistently giving remarks against the judiciary and the ECP. This should come to a stop," PTI reported. Last week, Imran was detained in accordance with Section 7 of the Anti-terrorism Act. The case was registered at Islamabad’s Margalla Police Station. Also read | Pakistan: Mob charges at Hindu man's house over fake blasphemy case Khan’s attorneys submitted a petition to the Islamabad High Court asking for pre-arrest bail on his behalf. A two-judge panel of Justices Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Babar Sattar took the case under consideration. After deliberating, the judge granted him protected bail until August 25 and instructed him to go before an approaching anti-terrorism court by then. The former prime minister, after being ousted, has been continuously attacking strong organisations and leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamabad court summons former PM Imran Khan in contempt case on August 31

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months. In other news, two white police officers involved in a Black man’s death won’t be prosecuted. In other news, recent reports by the European Union agencies&nbsp;claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. Finally, after 45 years, NASA’s Voyager 2 launched in 1977, and spacecraft to the outer planets and beyond are still continuing their journey.

<o:p>Click on the headlines to read more:</o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-war-hit-6-months-us-to-provide-3-billion-in-fresh-military-aid-to-ukraine-509613">As war hit 6 months, US to provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Ukraine</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290010-war-1.jpg" />

&nbsp;

According to The Associated Press, which has cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-month mark and Ukraine celebrates its independence day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-us-police-officers-involved-in-rayshard-brooks-shooting-not-to-face-any-charges-509611">Two US police officers involved in Rayshard Brooks shooting not to face any charges</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290009-brooks.jpg" />

The decision comes two years after Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed outside a Wendy's restaurant following an altercation with the two officers who tried to arrest him for DUI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-facing-worst-drought-in-almost-500-years-new-report-claims-509617">Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290017-5.png" />

In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-45-years-in-space-nasas-voyager-2-continues-its-interstellar-journey-509609">Watch: 45 years in space, NASA’s Voyager 2 continues its interstellar journey</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/24/290008-r-2.jpeg" />

Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space.

Watch |&nbsp;Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-hosts-forum-on-crimea-liberation-west-warns-russia-on-new-annexation-plan-509628/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months.

The United States announced that it will provide Kyiv with military aid worth $3 billion to train and equip the soldiers, as the Russia-Ukraine war completes its six months. In other news, two white police officers involved in a Black man’s death won’t be prosecuted. In other news, recent reports by the European Union agencies claimed that the continent is currently facing its worst drought in 500 years. Finally, after 45 years, NASA’s Voyager 2 launched in 1977, and spacecraft to the outer planets and beyond are still continuing their journey. Click on the headlines to read more: As war hit 6 months, US to provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Ukraine According to The Associated Press, which has cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-month mark and Ukraine celebrates its independence day. Two US police officers involved in Rayshard Brooks shooting not to face any charges The decision comes two years after Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed outside a Wendy's restaurant following an altercation with the two officers who tried to arrest him for DUI. Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims In the last few months, several European nations have faced massive wildfires and extreme temperatures which have caused severe damage to both life and property. Watch: 45 years in space, NASA’s Voyager 2 continues its interstellar journey Voyager 2 continued the Voyager mission's exploration of Uranus and Neptune whereas the original Voyager mission was limited to Jupiter and Saturn. On September 5 of the same year, Voyager 1 was launched into space. Watch | Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

Morning news brief: US announces $3 billion in military aid to Ukraine, Europe facing worst drought, & more

After being evacuated from Afghanistan due to a Taliban takeover, Afghan refugees and migrants in UAE facilities protested once more this week about the slow and unclear settlement procedure.

The facility provided Afghans with high-quality housing, sanitation, health, clinical, education, and food facilities.

Two Afghans in conversation with Reuters said that nearly hundreds of Afghans held banners and sang for their freedom. Almost a thousand Afghans are waiting for resettlement in other nations. A kid carried the banner, "One year is enough."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-clarifies-restriction-on-women-to-visit-public-parks-509449">Afghanistan: Taliban clarifies restriction on women to visit public parks</a>

There have been difficulties, and the resettlement process has taken longer than anticipated, an official said in a statement to Reuters.

The official stated, "The UAE remains committed to this ongoing cooperation with the US and other international partners to ensure that Afghan evacuees can live in safety, security, and dignity," Reuters reported. However, a representative for the US said that it is also cooperating in its efforts to help Afghans find resettlement options.

Under the condition of anonymity, one of the Afghans said, "Nearly one year, we have been here in detention, and the camp is like a modern prison. No one is allowed to go out, they don't know when (we) will be settled permanently to any country," Reuters reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/central-afghanistan-flash-floods-at-least-20-dead-more-than-35-injured-509301">Central Afghanistan flash floods: At least 20 dead, more than 35 injured</a>

The protests broke out in February after the process stopped. Afterward, a senior official from the US State Dept. visited and promised all Afghans to be resettled by August. Nearly, 12,000 Afghans were reportedly housed at the Abu Dhabi facility. The US last year welcomed nearly 85,000 Afghans into the country.

The US further stated that no one would be forced to return to Afghanistan, despite the fact that several UAE citizens made voluntary returns after waiting for months.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

After being evacuated from Afghanistan due to a Taliban takeover, Afghan refugees and migrants in UAE facilities protested once more this week about the slow and unclear settlement procedure.

After being evacuated from Afghanistan due to a Taliban takeover, Afghan refugees and migrants in UAE facilities protested once more this week about the slow and unclear settlement procedure. The facility provided Afghans with high-quality housing, sanitation, health, clinical, education, and food facilities. Two Afghans in conversation with Reuters said that nearly hundreds of Afghans held banners and sang for their freedom. Almost a thousand Afghans are waiting for resettlement in other nations. A kid carried the banner, "One year is enough." Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban clarifies restriction on women to visit public parks There have been difficulties, and the resettlement process has taken longer than anticipated, an official said in a statement to Reuters. The official stated, "The UAE remains committed to this ongoing cooperation with the US and other international partners to ensure that Afghan evacuees can live in safety, security, and dignity," Reuters reported. However, a representative for the US said that it is also cooperating in its efforts to help Afghans find resettlement options. Under the condition of anonymity, one of the Afghans said, "Nearly one year, we have been here in detention, and the camp is like a modern prison. No one is allowed to go out, they don't know when (we) will be settled permanently to any country," Reuters reported. Also read | Central Afghanistan flash floods: At least 20 dead, more than 35 injured The protests broke out in February after the process stopped. Afterward, a senior official from the US State Dept. visited and promised all Afghans to be resettled by August. Nearly, 12,000 Afghans were reportedly housed at the Abu Dhabi facility. The US last year welcomed nearly 85,000 Afghans into the country. The US further stated that no one would be forced to return to Afghanistan, despite the fact that several UAE citizens made voluntary returns after waiting for months. (With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of Afghan refugees and migrants protest in UAE for unclear resettlement procedures

Japan&nbsp;will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster.

The comments from Kishida — who also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors — highlight how the Ukraine crisis and soaring energy costs have forced both a change in public opinion and a policy rethink toward nuclear power.

Japan&nbsp;has kept most of its nuclear plants idled in the decade since a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011 triggered a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-deploy-1000-long-range-missiles-to-counter-china-report-508820">Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report</a>

Kishida told reporters he had instructed officials to come up with concrete measures by the year-end, including on "gaining the understanding of the public" on sustainable energy and nuclear power.

Government officials met on Wednesday to hammer out a plan for so-called "green transformation" aimed at retooling the world's third-largest economy to meet environmental goals. Nuclear energy, which was deeply opposed by the public in the aftermath of the Fukushima crisis, is now seen by some in government as a component for such green transformation.

Public opinion has also shifted, as fuel prices have risen and an early and hot summer spurred calls for energy-saving.

Last month, the government said it hoped to restart more nuclear reactors in time to avert any power crunch over the winter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warming-rivers-threaten-nuclear-plants-and-already-tight-power-supply-499789">Warming rivers threaten nuclear plants and already tight power supply&nbsp;</a>

As of late July,&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;had seven operating reactors, with three others offline due to maintenance. Many others are still going through a relicencing process under stricter safety standards imposed after Fukushima.

Kishida also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors. Local media earlier reported this could be done by not including the time reactors remained offline — years in some cases — when calculating their operating time.

Under current regulations, Japan&nbsp;decommissions plants after a predetermined period, which in many cases is 60 years.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Japan will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster.

Japan will restart more idled nuclear plants and look at developing next-generation reactors, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Wednesday, setting the stage for a major policy shift on nuclear energy a decade after the Fukushima disaster. The comments from Kishida — who also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors — highlight how the Ukraine crisis and soaring energy costs have forced both a change in public opinion and a policy rethink toward nuclear power. Japan has kept most of its nuclear plants idled in the decade since a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011 triggered a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. Also read | Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report Kishida told reporters he had instructed officials to come up with concrete measures by the year-end, including on "gaining the understanding of the public" on sustainable energy and nuclear power. Government officials met on Wednesday to hammer out a plan for so-called "green transformation" aimed at retooling the world's third-largest economy to meet environmental goals. Nuclear energy, which was deeply opposed by the public in the aftermath of the Fukushima crisis, is now seen by some in government as a component for such green transformation. Public opinion has also shifted, as fuel prices have risen and an early and hot summer spurred calls for energy-saving. Last month, the government said it hoped to restart more nuclear reactors in time to avert any power crunch over the winter. Also read | Warming rivers threaten nuclear plants and already tight power supply As of late July, Japan had seven operating reactors, with three others offline due to maintenance. Many others are still going through a relicencing process under stricter safety standards imposed after Fukushima. Kishida also said the government would look at extending the lifespan of existing reactors. Local media earlier reported this could be done by not including the time reactors remained offline — years in some cases — when calculating their operating time. Under current regulations, Japan decommissions plants after a predetermined period, which in many cases is 60 years.

In major shift, Japan signals return to nuclear power to stabilise energy supply

US President Joe Biden recently ordered his troops to conduct airstrikes against the Iranian-backed groups in Syria, a week after several rockets landed at a military base in Syria housing the American troops.

Col. Joe Buccino, a representative of Central Command said, "At President Biden's direction, US military forces conducted precision airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor Syria today." "These precision strikes are intended to defend and protect US forces from attacks like the ones on August 15 against US personnel by Iran-backed groups," he added as per CNN reports.

Biden directed these strikes in accordance with his Article II authority to safeguard and defend US personnel by disrupting or deterring attacks by Iran-backed forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-days-after-idlib-attack-syrian-church-bombardment-kills-two-500298">Two days after Idlib attack, Syrian church bombardment kills two</a>

Buccino&nbsp;said the US military conducted intensive surveillance on 13 bunkers in the same complex for 400 hours. Since the US wasn’t sure if the two bunkers were clear of people, the strike was intended for 11 targets. The strike struck out two more bunkers as a small group of people were nearby, so in total nine bunkers in the complex in eastern Syria were destroyed by the US military strikes. The initial assessment stated that no individual was killed.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command, said, "The strike in eastern Syria was in response to attacks by Iran-backed groups against US forces in Syria on August 15th and demonstrates our resolve to defend US forces and equipment," CNN reported.

According to an official, a limited number of coalition personnel, including US service members, were stationed at the base when the assault had taken place.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-says-us-drone-strike-kills-islamic-state-syria-chief-maher-al-agal-496833">Pentagon says US drone strike kills Islamic State Syria chief Maher al-Agal</a>

From the US-led coalition and the Syrian Democratic Forces, they were able to collect a number of rockets that were not able to take off. Earlier this week, a drone raid near the At-Tanf station in southern Syria saw multiple drones flying.

Local militias supported by Iran have been regularly attacking the&nbsp;US forces in Iran and Syria.

The US maintains nearly 900 troops in Syria, stationed between the At-Tanf base and the country’s eastern oil regions.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

US President Joe Biden recently ordered his troops to conduct airstrikes against the Iranian-backed groups in Syria, a week after several rockets landed at a military base in Syria housing the American troops.

US President Joe Biden recently ordered his troops to conduct airstrikes against the Iranian-backed groups in Syria, a week after several rockets landed at a military base in Syria housing the American troops. Col. Joe Buccino, a representative of Central Command said, "At President Biden's direction, US military forces conducted precision airstrikes in Deir ez-Zor Syria today." "These precision strikes are intended to defend and protect US forces from attacks like the ones on August 15 against US personnel by Iran-backed groups," he added as per CNN reports. Biden directed these strikes in accordance with his Article II authority to safeguard and defend US personnel by disrupting or deterring attacks by Iran-backed forces. Also read | Two days after Idlib attack, Syrian church bombardment kills two Buccino said the US military conducted intensive surveillance on 13 bunkers in the same complex for 400 hours. Since the US wasn’t sure if the two bunkers were clear of people, the strike was intended for 11 targets. The strike struck out two more bunkers as a small group of people were nearby, so in total nine bunkers in the complex in eastern Syria were destroyed by the US military strikes. The initial assessment stated that no individual was killed. Gen. Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command, said, "The strike in eastern Syria was in response to attacks by Iran-backed groups against US forces in Syria on August 15th and demonstrates our resolve to defend US forces and equipment," CNN reported. According to an official, a limited number of coalition personnel, including US service members, were stationed at the base when the assault had taken place. Also read | Pentagon says US drone strike kills Islamic State Syria chief Maher al-Agal From the US-led coalition and the Syrian Democratic Forces, they were able to collect a number of rockets that were not able to take off. Earlier this week, a drone raid near the At-Tanf station in southern Syria saw multiple drones flying. Local militias supported by Iran have been regularly attacking the US forces in Iran and Syria. The US maintains nearly 900 troops in Syria, stationed between the At-Tanf base and the country’s eastern oil regions. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden orders airstrikes against Iranian-backed groups in Syria

Argentine&nbsp;Vice President Cristina&nbsp;Kirchner&nbsp;launched a long and politically charged defense Tuesday against corruption charges, for which prosecutors have asked that she face 12 years in jail and a lifetime ban from politics.

Kirchner, 69, is accused of fraudulently awarding public works contracts in her stronghold in Patagonia.

She said Tuesday in a live social media broadcast that her political ideology, Peronism, was&nbsp;on&nbsp;trial&nbsp;and that prosecutors had already "written the&nbsp;sentence."

"Nothing, absolutely nothing that they have said was proven," said&nbsp;Kirchner, a lawyer by trade who was president from 2007 to 2015 having succeeded her late husband, Nestor&nbsp;Kirchner.

It was during those three presidential terms that the alleged&nbsp;graft&nbsp;occurred.

"It's not a&nbsp;trial&nbsp;against me, it's a&nbsp;trial&nbsp;of Peronism, of the national and popular governments," she said, brandishing during her 90-minute speech excerpts from laws, press articles, emails and accounts.

"It is 12 years (of prison time requested), the 12 years of the best government&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;has had in these last decades."

Kirchner&nbsp;was speaking from her office at the senate, where she is the president and for which she enjoys parliamentary immunity.

Even if convicted -- the&nbsp;verdict&nbsp;is expected at the end of the year -- she would not go to prison, unless her&nbsp;sentence&nbsp;were ratified by the country's supreme court, or she loses her senate seat at the next elections at the end of 2023.

Another dozen people are&nbsp;on&nbsp;trial&nbsp;alongside the vice president and their court statements are due to last weeks.

Kirchner&nbsp;has decided to mount her defense&nbsp;on&nbsp;social media after her request for an extra deposition was refused&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday.

Several hundred supporters cheered her arrival at the senate&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday, while others did the same as she left her home in an upmarket Buenos Aires neighborhood.

And Justice Minister Martin Soria himself slammed the proceedings, saying "the lack of impartiality of the court and of the prosecutors has been exposed."&nbsp;

He accused them of having denied giving&nbsp;Kirchner&nbsp;the chance to "defend herself" by rejecting her request for additional testimony.

Such is her divisive nature that rival groups of protesters, those for and against her, congregated outside her home Monday night after public prosecutor Diego Luciani requested she be sentenced to 12 years in jail and barred from politics for life.

Police were forced to intervene as tensions mounted.

Luciani hit out at "an authentic system of institutional corruption" which he said was "probably the biggest corruption operation the country has known."&nbsp;

On&nbsp;Tuesday, fellow South American left-wing former presidents, Bolivia's Evo Morales and Dilma Rousseff of Brazil, expressed their support for&nbsp;Kirchner.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Argentine Vice President Cristina Kirchner launched a long and politically charged defense Tuesday against corruption charges, for which prosecutors have asked that she face 12 years in jail and a lifetime ban from politics.

Argentine Vice President Cristina Kirchner launched a long and politically charged defense Tuesday against corruption charges, for which prosecutors have asked that she face 12 years in jail and a lifetime ban from politics. Kirchner, 69, is accused of fraudulently awarding public works contracts in her stronghold in Patagonia. She said Tuesday in a live social media broadcast that her political ideology, Peronism, was on trial and that prosecutors had already "written the sentence." "Nothing, absolutely nothing that they have said was proven," said Kirchner, a lawyer by trade who was president from 2007 to 2015 having succeeded her late husband, Nestor Kirchner. It was during those three presidential terms that the alleged graft occurred. "It's not a trial against me, it's a trial of Peronism, of the national and popular governments," she said, brandishing during her 90-minute speech excerpts from laws, press articles, emails and accounts. "It is 12 years (of prison time requested), the 12 years of the best government Argentina has had in these last decades." Kirchner was speaking from her office at the senate, where she is the president and for which she enjoys parliamentary immunity. Even if convicted -- the verdict is expected at the end of the year -- she would not go to prison, unless her sentence were ratified by the country's supreme court, or she loses her senate seat at the next elections at the end of 2023. Another dozen people are on trial alongside the vice president and their court statements are due to last weeks. Kirchner has decided to mount her defense on social media after her request for an extra deposition was refused on Monday. Several hundred supporters cheered her arrival at the senate on Tuesday, while others did the same as she left her home in an upmarket Buenos Aires neighborhood. And Justice Minister Martin Soria himself slammed the proceedings, saying "the lack of impartiality of the court and of the prosecutors has been exposed." He accused them of having denied giving Kirchner the chance to "defend herself" by rejecting her request for additional testimony. Such is her divisive nature that rival groups of protesters, those for and against her, congregated outside her home Monday night after public prosecutor Diego Luciani requested she be sentenced to 12 years in jail and barred from politics for life. Police were forced to intervene as tensions mounted. Luciani hit out at "an authentic system of institutional corruption" which he said was "probably the biggest corruption operation the country has known." On Tuesday, fellow South American left-wing former presidents, Bolivia's Evo Morales and Dilma Rousseff of Brazil, expressed their support for Kirchner.

Argentina's Kirchner goes on offensive over graft trial

Singapore&nbsp;will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday.

For the first time in more than two years, people in the Southeast Asian city-state will no longer be required to wear masks indoors except on public transport and in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-marriage-to-the-death-penalty-lgbtq-rights-across-the-globe-509186">From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe</a>

The health ministry also updated rules for non-vaccinated travellers, dropping a 7-day quarantine requirement starting next week.

Singapore, which is a major Asian financial and travel hub, lifted most pandemic curbs, including travel restrictions, earlier this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/singapore-lifts-ban-on-gay-sex-repeals-section-377a-but-upholds-marriage-ban-508900">Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban</a>

About 70 per cent&nbsp;of the city-state's 5.5 million population has already contracted COVID-19, Ong Ye Kung, the health minister said in a news conference, adding that the re-infection rate is so far "very low".

Singapore&nbsp;has vaccinated more than 90 per cent&nbsp;of its population and has among the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the world.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Singapore will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday.

Singapore will do away with requirements to wear masks indoors starting Aug. 29, as the country sees its COVID-19 situation stabilise further, the health minister said on Wednesday. For the first time in more than two years, people in the Southeast Asian city-state will no longer be required to wear masks indoors except on public transport and in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities. Also read | From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe The health ministry also updated rules for non-vaccinated travellers, dropping a 7-day quarantine requirement starting next week. Singapore, which is a major Asian financial and travel hub, lifted most pandemic curbs, including travel restrictions, earlier this year. Also read | Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban About 70 per cent of the city-state's 5.5 million population has already contracted COVID-19, Ong Ye Kung, the health minister said in a news conference, adding that the re-infection rate is so far "very low". Singapore has vaccinated more than 90 per cent of its population and has among the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the world.

Singapore to drop most indoor mask requirements next week

Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988. However, since 2008, there have been no reports of dugong in China.

Scientists have called this instance a "wake up call" for us to prioritise conservative efforts. The study was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal.

Prof Samuel Turvey, a lead author in the study, said, "Our new study shows strong evidence of the regional loss of another charismatic aquatic mammal species in China – sadly, once again driven by unsustainable human activity," The Guardian reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-navy-strapped-cameras-on-dolphins-and-got-interesting-results-509195">US Navy strapped cameras on dolphins and got interesting results</a>

The aquatic mammals are dependent on seagrass, a special maritime ecosystem, which was quickly destroyed by human activities like coastal development and water pollution. Turvey further stated that seagrass beds are also susceptible to eutrophication, where algal blooms develop as a result of human-caused increases in nutrients in the water like sewage. This process reduces the capacity of light to pass through water and hinders photosynthesis.

Despite the fact that China focuses majorly on seagrass restoration and recovery, the restoration process can take a while, and it might be too late for the dugong populations that lived there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-smallest-and-endangered-sea-turtles-discovered-on-louisiana-islands-after-75-years-509129">World’s smallest sea turtles discovered on Chandeleur Islands after 75 years</a>

The researchers looked back at the distribution and activity records of dugongs in China. The research didn’t reveal any recent evidence of dugong survival outside of the mainland Chinese waters. The researchers stated that they would welcome any proof that mammals still exist in the country.

Turvey said that this study is a "sobering reminder that extinctions can occur before effective conservation actions are developed," The Guardian reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988.

Scientists have confirmed that dugong is now technically extinct in China as a result of widespread habitat deterioration and killings. The mammal has been given the greatest level of protection by the Chinese state council since it was designated as an important national animal in 1988. However, since 2008, there have been no reports of dugong in China. Scientists have called this instance a "wake up call" for us to prioritise conservative efforts. The study was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal. Prof Samuel Turvey, a lead author in the study, said, "Our new study shows strong evidence of the regional loss of another charismatic aquatic mammal species in China – sadly, once again driven by unsustainable human activity," The Guardian reported. Also read | US Navy strapped cameras on dolphins and got interesting results The aquatic mammals are dependent on seagrass, a special maritime ecosystem, which was quickly destroyed by human activities like coastal development and water pollution. Turvey further stated that seagrass beds are also susceptible to eutrophication, where algal blooms develop as a result of human-caused increases in nutrients in the water like sewage. This process reduces the capacity of light to pass through water and hinders photosynthesis. Despite the fact that China focuses majorly on seagrass restoration and recovery, the restoration process can take a while, and it might be too late for the dugong populations that lived there. Also read | World’s smallest sea turtles discovered on Chandeleur Islands after 75 years The researchers looked back at the distribution and activity records of dugongs in China. The research didn’t reveal any recent evidence of dugong survival outside of the mainland Chinese waters. The researchers stated that they would welcome any proof that mammals still exist in the country. Turvey said that this study is a "sobering reminder that extinctions can occur before effective conservation actions are developed," The Guardian reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Dugong’s functional extinction in China due to habitat destruction, ‘a wakeup call’ to prioritise efforts

Argentina's public prosecutor has sought a 12-year prison term for Vice President Cristina Kirchner, and a lifetime ban on her from public offices in response to allegations of corruption during her two terms as president of the country.

The vice president has been charged with fraudulently granting public works contracts during her presidential term, but wouldn’t be imprisoned as she has her parliamentary immunity as an elected senator. But a final decision on this is expected to be announced by the end of the year. She might lose her parliamentary benefits in two instances: either by losing her Senate seat in the upcoming elections, or if the Supreme Court ratifies a guilty verdict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/in-india-argentina-fm-santiago-raises-falkland-issues-lauds-ties-with-delhi-473537">In India, Argentina FM Santiago raises Falkland issue, lauds ties with Delhi</a>

President Alberto Fernandez’s office released a public statement after the prosecutor’s plea was made public, denouncing the judicial and media persecution of the vice president.

The statement said, "None of the actions attributed to the ex-president have been proved and the whole accusation is based purely on the function she exercised at that time, which sadly degrades the most basic principles of modern criminal law."

The probe includes Kirchner’s eight years in government, from 2007 to 2015, as well as four years before that, when her husband passed away, who also served as the president of the country in 2010.

Kirchner has long maintained her innocence and accused the prosecutor’s office of political persecution and lawfare. She has recently been under several charges of bribery, money laundering, and speculative damage to the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-parliament-approves-imf-deal-for-45-billion-debt-463369">Argentina parliament approves IMF deal to restructure $45 billion debt</a>

The vice president on Monday tweeted that some of the charges against her had not before been raised and that the prosecution was ‘openly violating’ the principle of defence in court.

Kirchner also stated that she would broadcast her defence on social media on Tuesday, denouncing the process as unfair.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Argentina's public prosecutor has sought a 12-year prison term for Vice President Cristina Kirchner, and a lifetime ban on her from public offices in response to allegations of corruption during her two terms as president of the country.

Argentina's public prosecutor has sought a 12-year prison term for Vice President Cristina Kirchner, and a lifetime ban on her from public offices in response to allegations of corruption during her two terms as president of the country. The vice president has been charged with fraudulently granting public works contracts during her presidential term, but wouldn’t be imprisoned as she has her parliamentary immunity as an elected senator. But a final decision on this is expected to be announced by the end of the year. She might lose her parliamentary benefits in two instances: either by losing her Senate seat in the upcoming elections, or if the Supreme Court ratifies a guilty verdict. Also read | In India, Argentina FM Santiago raises Falkland issue, lauds ties with Delhi President Alberto Fernandez’s office released a public statement after the prosecutor’s plea was made public, denouncing the judicial and media persecution of the vice president. The statement said, "None of the actions attributed to the ex-president have been proved and the whole accusation is based purely on the function she exercised at that time, which sadly degrades the most basic principles of modern criminal law." The probe includes Kirchner’s eight years in government, from 2007 to 2015, as well as four years before that, when her husband passed away, who also served as the president of the country in 2010. Kirchner has long maintained her innocence and accused the prosecutor’s office of political persecution and lawfare. She has recently been under several charges of bribery, money laundering, and speculative damage to the state. Also read | Argentina parliament approves IMF deal to restructure $45 billion debt The vice president on Monday tweeted that some of the charges against her had not before been raised and that the prosecution was ‘openly violating’ the principle of defence in court. Kirchner also stated that she would broadcast her defence on social media on Tuesday, denouncing the process as unfair. (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.

Argentine public prosecutor demands 12-year prison term for VP Cristina Kirchner for corruption

Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral.

"Drug test taken from Prime Minister Sanna Marin on 19 August 2022 did not reveal the presence of drugs," her office said.

Lida Vallin, an adviser to the prime minister, said Marin’s urine samples were examined for the presence of numerous drugs like cocaine and cannabis. She said, "The test was a comprehensive drug test. We did not choose how the test was done," AFP reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-finnish-women-share-party-videos-showing-their-support-for-pm-sanna-marin-508793">Hundreds of Finnish women share party videos in support of PM Sanna Marin</a>

The videos sparked outrage all around the world, with people calling out reference to drugs in them, which were hotly disputed on social media, but the Finnish minister strongly rejected claims of drug use. She claimed the videos were filmed on private premises and that she was having fun with her pals.

Marin had on Friday declared that she’ll be taking a drug test to dispel any rumours. She acknowledged having consumed alcohol but denied consuming drugs, asserting also that she did not see any other attendees using drugs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-are-finnish-pm-sanna-marins-party-videos-bothering-you-508687">Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you?</a>

Marin said, "Never in my life, not even in my youth, have I ever used any drugs," AFP reported.

Defending Marin, many Finnish women came forward and posted their dancing and partying videos on social media.

She received harsh criticism in 2021 after it was discovered that she had been exposed to COVID-19 but still continued to party for hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral.

Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral. "Drug test taken from Prime Minister Sanna Marin on 19 August 2022 did not reveal the presence of drugs," her office said. Lida Vallin, an adviser to the prime minister, said Marin’s urine samples were examined for the presence of numerous drugs like cocaine and cannabis. She said, "The test was a comprehensive drug test. We did not choose how the test was done," AFP reported. Also read | Hundreds of Finnish women share party videos in support of PM Sanna Marin The videos sparked outrage all around the world, with people calling out reference to drugs in them, which were hotly disputed on social media, but the Finnish minister strongly rejected claims of drug use. She claimed the videos were filmed on private premises and that she was having fun with her pals. Marin had on Friday declared that she’ll be taking a drug test to dispel any rumours. She acknowledged having consumed alcohol but denied consuming drugs, asserting also that she did not see any other attendees using drugs. Also read | Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you? Marin said, "Never in my life, not even in my youth, have I ever used any drugs," AFP reported. Defending Marin, many Finnish women came forward and posted their dancing and partying videos on social media. She received harsh criticism in 2021 after it was discovered that she had been exposed to COVID-19 but still continued to party for hours. (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.

Finnish PM Sanna Marin clears all doubts, tests negative for drugs amid party video controversy

In light of worsening violence in Ukraine, the US has rejected Volodymyr Zelensky’s request for&nbsp;blanket ban on Russian visas. In other news, Tesla CEO Elon Musk is now seeking help from co-founder and former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey to help him abandon the contentious $44 billion Twitter deal. In other news, Trump’s lawyers have asked the FBI to halt its review of the documents so that an impartial special master can be appointed to look into the information. Finally, three Ukrainian troops who claimed that they were injured and captured by Russia before being freed, accused the captors of torturing them.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rejects-volodymyr-zelenskys-request-to-impose-a-blanket-visa-ban-on-russians-509310">US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/12/287025-volodymyr-zelensky.png" />

While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-subpoenas-jack-dorsey-amid-bot-controversy-tesla-boss-misled-or-lost-interest-in-twitter-deal-509309">Elon Musk subpoenas Jack Dorsey amid bot controversy. Tesla boss 'misled' or lost interest in Twitter deal?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/12/278451-elon-musks-twitter.png" />

AFP reports that as per records made public, the Tesla CEO has served Dorsey with a legal order that requires him to give Musk any communications or documents pertaining to the April takeover agreement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-special-master-to-examine-mar-a-lago-documents-509307">Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/23/289757-1000-1.jpeg" />

The request was contained in a federal lawsuit, the first from&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;legal team in the two weeks following the search, which broadsides the FBI investigation into the finding of secret documents at Mar-a-Lago and foreshadows arguments his attorneys will likely make as the investigation develops.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-ukrainian-soldiers-accuse-russians-of-atrocities-in-prison-509299">Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/23/289744-00032gt8zh.jpg" />

Following Russia's invasion on February 24, the soldiers, who were a part of a group that fought for weeks from a sizable steelworks in the southern port of Mariupol, claimed during a news conference in Kyiv that their captors sought to force them to confess to atrocities against civilians.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Imran Khan booked on terror charges

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&nbsp;

In light of worsening violence in Ukraine, the US has rejected Volodymyr Zelensky’s request for blanket ban on Russian visas. In other news, Tesla CEO Elon Musk is now seeking help from co-founder and former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey to help him abandon the contentious $44 billion Twitter deal.

In light of worsening violence in Ukraine, the US has rejected Volodymyr Zelensky’s request for blanket ban on Russian visas. In other news, Tesla CEO Elon Musk is now seeking help from co-founder and former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey to help him abandon the contentious $44 billion Twitter deal. In other news, Trump’s lawyers have asked the FBI to halt its review of the documents so that an impartial special master can be appointed to look into the information. Finally, three Ukrainian troops who claimed that they were injured and captured by Russia before being freed, accused the captors of torturing them. Click on the headlines to read more: US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”. Elon Musk subpoenas Jack Dorsey amid bot controversy. Tesla boss 'misled' or lost interest in Twitter deal? AFP reports that as per records made public, the Tesla CEO has served Dorsey with a legal order that requires him to give Musk any communications or documents pertaining to the April takeover agreement. Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents The request was contained in a federal lawsuit, the first from Trump's legal team in the two weeks following the search, which broadsides the FBI investigation into the finding of secret documents at Mar-a-Lago and foreshadows arguments his attorneys will likely make as the investigation develops. Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison Following Russia's invasion on February 24, the soldiers, who were a part of a group that fought for weeks from a sizable steelworks in the southern port of Mariupol, claimed during a news conference in Kyiv that their captors sought to force them to confess to atrocities against civilians. Watch | Gravitas: Imran Khan booked on terror charges

Morning news brief: US rejects Zelensky’s request, Trump sues US government, and more

Britain's prime ministerial candidate Rishi Sunak said he wants to change the UK-India relationship to make it a more two-way exchange that opens up easy access to UK students and companies in India.

During a campaign hustings event hosted by the Conservative Friends of India (CFIN) diaspora organisation in north London on Monday evening, the former Chancellor greeted the largely British Indian gathering with a mix of traditional greetings such as "namaste, salaam, khem cho, and kidda."

He even broke into Hindi: "Aap sab mere parivar ho (you all are my family)."

"We know the UK-India relationship is important. We represent the living bridge between our two countries,"&nbsp;he said, in response to a question about bilateral ties from CFIN co-chair Reena Ranger.

"We are all very aware of the opportunity for the UK to sell things and do things in India, but actually we need to look at that relationship differently because there is an enormous amount that we here in the UK can learn from India," he said.

"I want to make sure that it's easy for our students to also travel to India and learn, that it's also easy for our companies and Indian companies to work together because it's not just a one-way relationship, it's a two-way relationship, and that's the type of change I want to bring to that relationship,"&nbsp;he said.

On China, the former minister reiterated his stand about the need to be "very robust"&nbsp;in defending the UK against its aggressiveness.

"China and the Chinese Communist Party represent the biggest threat to our economic and thereby national security that this country has faced in a long time and we need to be alive to that,"&nbsp;he said.

"Be in no doubt, as your Prime Minister I will do whatever it takes to keep you, your families and our country safe because that's the first duty of a Conservative Prime Minister,"&nbsp;he added.

After a grand entry at the Dhamecha Lohana Centre in Harrow to dhol beats and loud cheers, the former minister spoke briefly and then spent hours interacting with hundreds of Tory members who queued up to shake hands with him.

He was showered with blessings by the elderly in the crowd, patted on the back by others and eight-year-old Tanish Sahu got a special picture as Sunak carried him in his arms.

Amita Mishra, the Trustee of Shree Jagannatha Society UK, handed over a set of gold-plated deities all the way from India.

"We are working on creating a Jagannath Temple in London and this gift is a special blessing all the way from India,"&nbsp;said Mishra, who was accompanied by a pandit who performed a victory shloka from the" Bhagavad Gita' as the deities were handed over to Sunak on stage.

In complete contrast, a British Sikh Tory member in the crowd waited hours to get a special bottle of Jack Daniels whisky signed by Sunak,&nbsp;despite both him and the former Chancellor being teetotalers.

"I don't drink but this is a special gift I received on my birthday and now with this signature it has become historic,"&nbsp;he said.

In this gathering, his self-proclaimed underdog status as the candidate trailing in all the polls seemed irrelevant as he glided through the crowds rockstar-like and responded to comments of 'see you at No. 10 Downing Street'&nbsp;with an emphatic: "That's the plan, I'm giving it everything I got."

The majority in the room admitted they had already cast their online ballots in favour of Sunak and had come along to this latest hustings just to hear him out one more time.

One sceptical British Indian investment banker said he was still undecided as he did not entirely favour Sunak's handling of the Bounce Back Loan scheme introduced in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdowns, which have been "abused" by many.

But even he admitted that his vote might go to Sunak in the end as he wasn't entirely convinced by leadership rival Foreign Secretary Liz Truss.

But what a majority seemed convinced about was that Sunak's Indian origin and ethnic minority background had no part to play in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as Conservative Party leader and the British Prime Minister.

"This country is not racist. For Rishi to reach this stage, it proves that merit is valued,"&nbsp;said Lord Dolar Popat, a veteran Tory peer.

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Britain's prime ministerial candidate Rishi Sunak said he wants to change the UK-India relationship to make it a more two-way exchange that opens up easy access to UK students and companies in India.

Britain's prime ministerial candidate Rishi Sunak said he wants to change the UK-India relationship to make it a more two-way exchange that opens up easy access to UK students and companies in India. During a campaign hustings event hosted by the Conservative Friends of India (CFIN) diaspora organisation in north London on Monday evening, the former Chancellor greeted the largely British Indian gathering with a mix of traditional greetings such as "namaste, salaam, khem cho, and kidda." He even broke into Hindi: "Aap sab mere parivar ho (you all are my family)." "We know the UK-India relationship is important. We represent the living bridge between our two countries," he said, in response to a question about bilateral ties from CFIN co-chair Reena Ranger. "We are all very aware of the opportunity for the UK to sell things and do things in India, but actually we need to look at that relationship differently because there is an enormous amount that we here in the UK can learn from India," he said. "I want to make sure that it's easy for our students to also travel to India and learn, that it's also easy for our companies and Indian companies to work together because it's not just a one-way relationship, it's a two-way relationship, and that's the type of change I want to bring to that relationship," he said. On China, the former minister reiterated his stand about the need to be "very robust" in defending the UK against its aggressiveness. "China and the Chinese Communist Party represent the biggest threat to our economic and thereby national security that this country has faced in a long time and we need to be alive to that," he said. "Be in no doubt, as your Prime Minister I will do whatever it takes to keep you, your families and our country safe because that's the first duty of a Conservative Prime Minister," he added. After a grand entry at the Dhamecha Lohana Centre in Harrow to dhol beats and loud cheers, the former minister spoke briefly and then spent hours interacting with hundreds of Tory members who queued up to shake hands with him. He was showered with blessings by the elderly in the crowd, patted on the back by others and eight-year-old Tanish Sahu got a special picture as Sunak carried him in his arms. Amita Mishra, the Trustee of Shree Jagannatha Society UK, handed over a set of gold-plated deities all the way from India. "We are working on creating a Jagannath Temple in London and this gift is a special blessing all the way from India," said Mishra, who was accompanied by a pandit who performed a victory shloka from the" Bhagavad Gita' as the deities were handed over to Sunak on stage. In complete contrast, a British Sikh Tory member in the crowd waited hours to get a special bottle of Jack Daniels whisky signed by Sunak, despite both him and the former Chancellor being teetotalers. "I don't drink but this is a special gift I received on my birthday and now with this signature it has become historic," he said. In this gathering, his self-proclaimed underdog status as the candidate trailing in all the polls seemed irrelevant as he glided through the crowds rockstar-like and responded to comments of 'see you at No. 10 Downing Street' with an emphatic: "That's the plan, I'm giving it everything I got." The majority in the room admitted they had already cast their online ballots in favour of Sunak and had come along to this latest hustings just to hear him out one more time. One sceptical British Indian investment banker said he was still undecided as he did not entirely favour Sunak's handling of the Bounce Back Loan scheme introduced in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdowns, which have been "abused" by many. But even he admitted that his vote might go to Sunak in the end as he wasn't entirely convinced by leadership rival Foreign Secretary Liz Truss. But what a majority seemed convinced about was that Sunak's Indian origin and ethnic minority background had no part to play in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as Conservative Party leader and the British Prime Minister. "This country is not racist. For Rishi to reach this stage, it proves that merit is valued," said Lord Dolar Popat, a veteran Tory peer. 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.

I want to change UK-India relationship to make it more two-way: Rishi Sunak

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