Scientists have identified 24 planets outside our solar system that they say may have conditions more suitable for life than the Earth. 
The study, published in the journal Astrobiology, details characteristics of potential "superhabitable" planets, that include those that are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than Earth.

The researchers from the Washington State University (WSU) in the US noted life could more easily thrive on planets that circle more slowly changing stars with longer lifespans than our Sun.

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The 24 top contenders for superhabitable planets are all more than 100 light years away, but the study could help focus future observation efforts, such as from NASA's James Web Space Telescope, they said.

"With the next space telescopes coming up, we will get more information, so it is important to select some targets," said Dirk Schulze-Makuch, a professor at WSU and the Technical University in Berlin.

"We have to focus on certain planets that have the most promising conditions for complex life. However, we have to be careful to not get stuck looking for a second Earth because there could be planets that might be more suitable for life than ours," Schulze-Makuch said.

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The researchers identified superhabitability criteria and searched among the 4,500 known exoplanets beyond our solar system for good candidates.

Habitability does not mean these planets definitely have life, merely the conditions that would be conducive to life, they noted.

The researchers selected planet-star systems with probable terrestrial planets orbiting within the host star's liquid water habitable zone from the Kepler Object of Interest Exoplanet Archive of transiting exoplanets.

While the Sun is the centre of our solar system, it has a relatively short lifespan of less than 10 billion years, they said.

Since it took nearly 4 billion years before any form of complex life appeared on Earth, many similar stars to our sun, called G stars, might run out of fuel before complex life can develop, according to the researchers.

In addition to looking at systems with cooler G stars, they also looked at systems with K dwarf stars, which are somewhat cooler, less massive and less luminous than the Sun.

The researchers said K stars have the advantage of long lifespans of 20 billion to 70 billion years.

This would allow orbiting planets to be older as well as giving life more time to advance to the complexity currently found on Earth, they said.

However, to be habitable, planets should not be so old that they have exhausted their geothermal heat and lack protective geomagnetic fields.

Earth is around 4.5 billion years old, but the researchers argue that the sweet spot for life is a planet that is between 5 billion to 8 billion years old. Size and mass also matter.

A planet that is 10 per cent larger than the Earth should have more habitable land, the researchers said.

One that is about 1.5 times Earth's mass would be expected to retain its interior heating through radioactive decay longer and would also have a stronger gravity to retain an atmosphere over a longer time period, they said.

Water is key to life and the researchers argue that a little more of it would help, especially in the form of moisture, clouds and humidity.

They noted that a slightly overall warmer temperature, a mean surface temperature of about 5 degrees Celsius greater than Earth, together with the additional moisture, would be also better for life.

Among the 24 top planet candidates none of them met all the criteria for superhabitable planets, but one has four of the critical characteristics, making it possibly much more comfortable for life than our home planet, the researchers added.

Scientists have identified 24 planets outside our solar system that they say may have conditions more suitable for life than the Earth. The study, published in the journal Astrobiology, details characteristics of potential "superhabitable" planets, that include those that are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than Earth.

Scientists have identified 24 planets outside our solar system that they say may have conditions more suitable for life than the Earth. The study, published in the journal Astrobiology, details characteristics of potential "superhabitable" planets, that include those that are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than Earth. The researchers from the Washington State University (WSU) in the US noted life could more easily thrive on planets that circle more slowly changing stars with longer lifespans than our Sun. Also read: NASA's new stunning time lapse video shows a gigantic star exploding The 24 top contenders for superhabitable planets are all more than 100 light years away, but the study could help focus future observation efforts, such as from NASA's James Web Space Telescope, they said. "With the next space telescopes coming up, we will get more information, so it is important to select some targets," said Dirk Schulze-Makuch, a professor at WSU and the Technical University in Berlin. "We have to focus on certain planets that have the most promising conditions for complex life. However, we have to be careful to not get stuck looking for a second Earth because there could be planets that might be more suitable for life than ours," Schulze-Makuch said. Also read: NASA to send its new $23 million toilet to International Space Station The researchers identified superhabitability criteria and searched among the 4,500 known exoplanets beyond our solar system for good candidates. Habitability does not mean these planets definitely have life, merely the conditions that would be conducive to life, they noted. The researchers selected planet-star systems with probable terrestrial planets orbiting within the host star's liquid water habitable zone from the Kepler Object of Interest Exoplanet Archive of transiting exoplanets. While the Sun is the centre of our solar system, it has a relatively short lifespan of less than 10 billion years, they said. Since it took nearly 4 billion years before any form of complex life appeared on Earth, many similar stars to our sun, called G stars, might run out of fuel before complex life can develop, according to the researchers. In addition to looking at systems with cooler G stars, they also looked at systems with K dwarf stars, which are somewhat cooler, less massive and less luminous than the Sun. The researchers said K stars have the advantage of long lifespans of 20 billion to 70 billion years. This would allow orbiting planets to be older as well as giving life more time to advance to the complexity currently found on Earth, they said. However, to be habitable, planets should not be so old that they have exhausted their geothermal heat and lack protective geomagnetic fields. Earth is around 4.5 billion years old, but the researchers argue that the sweet spot for life is a planet that is between 5 billion to 8 billion years old. Size and mass also matter. A planet that is 10 per cent larger than the Earth should have more habitable land, the researchers said. One that is about 1.5 times Earth's mass would be expected to retain its interior heating through radioactive decay longer and would also have a stronger gravity to retain an atmosphere over a longer time period, they said. Water is key to life and the researchers argue that a little more of it would help, especially in the form of moisture, clouds and humidity. They noted that a slightly overall warmer temperature, a mean surface temperature of about 5 degrees Celsius greater than Earth, together with the additional moisture, would be also better for life. Among the 24 top planet candidates none of them met all the criteria for superhabitable planets, but one has four of the critical characteristics, making it possibly much more comfortable for life than our home planet, the researchers added.

24 planets may have more suitable conditions for life than Earth: Study

New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is under fire for rejecting six scholars for membership in a science advisory body set up after World War Two, a move critics say violates the constitution's principle of academic freedom.

Suga, who took office last month after Shinzo Abe resigned, has enjoyed high support among voters who approve of his promises to deregulate, reduce mobile phone rates and digitalise services as he tries to revive the economy and contain COVID-19.

But Suga's rejection of the six scholars, some of whom are known for criticising past Abe policies, could stoke a furore that threatens his honeymoon with voters.

At issue is the influential 210-member Science Council of Japan (SCJ), set up after World War Two to provide independent scientific policy input. The body had included the six rejected scholars among 105 recommended for membership.

Half of the council's members are chosen every three years.

Among the policies the rejected scholars had criticised are Abe's reinterpretation of the pacifist constitution to allow troops to fight overseas, a historic shift for Japan's defence policies, and a 2013 state secrets act that sparked concerns about media freedom.

Suga told reporters on Friday that his decision was "the result of an appropriate response based on the law."

Since 1983, the prime minister has appointed members based upon SCJ recommendations, and there is no precedent for rejecting those recommendations, political analysts said.

"The constitution of Japan has a specific article just for academic freedom, which is ... a direct result of wartime control of academia and science by the militarists," said Sophia University professor Koichi Nakano.

The council, which tangled with Abe's government in 2017 after taking a sceptical stance on academic research with potential military uses, has demanded Suga explain his decision and appoint the six scholars.

"I don't know at all why I was not appointed," one of the scholars, Waseda Law School professor Masanori Okada, told Reuters. "What I wrote (in the past) was that the government should act in accordance with the law. ... That is only natural."

Some conservatives have blasted the SCJ for what they say is a China-friendly stance. Okada denied the group has any special relationship with Beijing.

University of Tokyo political science professor Shigeki Uno declined to comment directly on his rejection but stressed the importance of freedom of speech.

"The greatest strength of a democratic society is its ability to be open to criticism and constantly modify itself," he said in a statement to the media.

Opposition parties have attacked the decision and demanded a public explanation from Suga.

New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is under fire for rejecting six scholars for membership in a science advisory body set up after World War Two, a move critics say violates the constitution's principle of academic freedom.

New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is under fire for rejecting six scholars for membership in a science advisory body set up after World War Two, a move critics say violates the constitution's principle of academic freedom. Suga, who took office last month after Shinzo Abe resigned, has enjoyed high support among voters who approve of his promises to deregulate, reduce mobile phone rates and digitalise services as he tries to revive the economy and contain COVID-19. But Suga's rejection of the six scholars, some of whom are known for criticising past Abe policies, could stoke a furore that threatens his honeymoon with voters. At issue is the influential 210-member Science Council of Japan (SCJ), set up after World War Two to provide independent scientific policy input. The body had included the six rejected scholars among 105 recommended for membership. Half of the council's members are chosen every three years. Among the policies the rejected scholars had criticised are Abe's reinterpretation of the pacifist constitution to allow troops to fight overseas, a historic shift for Japan's defence policies, and a 2013 state secrets act that sparked concerns about media freedom. Suga told reporters on Friday that his decision was "the result of an appropriate response based on the law." Since 1983, the prime minister has appointed members based upon SCJ recommendations, and there is no precedent for rejecting those recommendations, political analysts said. "The constitution of Japan has a specific article just for academic freedom, which is ... a direct result of wartime control of academia and science by the militarists," said Sophia University professor Koichi Nakano. The council, which tangled with Abe's government in 2017 after taking a sceptical stance on academic research with potential military uses, has demanded Suga explain his decision and appoint the six scholars. "I don't know at all why I was not appointed," one of the scholars, Waseda Law School professor Masanori Okada, told Reuters. "What I wrote (in the past) was that the government should act in accordance with the law. ... That is only natural." Some conservatives have blasted the SCJ for what they say is a China-friendly stance. Okada denied the group has any special relationship with Beijing. University of Tokyo political science professor Shigeki Uno declined to comment directly on his rejection but stressed the importance of freedom of speech. "The greatest strength of a democratic society is its ability to be open to criticism and constantly modify itself," he said in a statement to the media. Opposition parties have attacked the decision and demanded a public explanation from Suga.

Japan PM Suga under fire after rejecting scholars for advisory body

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is travelling to Qatar for a bilateral meeting with Qatari leaders but will not hold a meeting with Taliban officials even as peace talks are underway in the country's capital city Doha, officials said on Monday.

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Negotiations between the Afghan government and Afghan Taliban that started last month are aimed at the warring sides agreeing to a reduction of violence and a possible new power-sharing agreement in Afghanistan.

Violence, however, has not abated even as Afghan negotiators have been engaged in direct talks for the first time ever.

Scores of Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters have been killed in intensive clashes and suicide attacks have left dozens of civilians dead in recent weeks across the war-torn country.

Ghani and his team will be stopping first in Kuwait to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah before travelling to Qatar on Monday, a close aide to Ghani told Reuters.

"Several meetings are planned to discuss efforts for deepening Afghanistan-Qatar ties and mutual cooperation in various areas," said the official adding that Ghani will also meet the Afghan representatives who are holding talks with Taliban.

"But it is clear that Ghani will not meet the Taliban officials as there has been no reduction of violence and they continue to kill innocent civilians," said a senior western diplomat overseeing the ongoing peace process.

The intra-Afghan talks are part of a February deal between the militants and the United States that has cleared the way for US&nbsp;forces to withdraw from their longest war.

But so far there has been no progress as the warring Afghans have become bogged down on processes and procedures, diplomatic sources said.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is travelling to Qatar for a bilateral meeting with Qatari leaders but will not hold a meeting with Taliban officials even as peace talks are underway in the country's capital city Doha, officials said on Monday.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is travelling to Qatar for a bilateral meeting with Qatari leaders but will not hold a meeting with Taliban officials even as peace talks are underway in the country's capital city Doha, officials said on Monday. President Ghani arrives in Doha pic.twitter.com/zjT5Dl2DD8 — Sediq Sediqqi (@SediqSediqqi) October 5, 2020 × Negotiations between the Afghan government and Afghan Taliban that started last month are aimed at the warring sides agreeing to a reduction of violence and a possible new power-sharing agreement in Afghanistan. Violence, however, has not abated even as Afghan negotiators have been engaged in direct talks for the first time ever. Scores of Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters have been killed in intensive clashes and suicide attacks have left dozens of civilians dead in recent weeks across the war-torn country. Ghani and his team will be stopping first in Kuwait to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah before travelling to Qatar on Monday, a close aide to Ghani told Reuters. "Several meetings are planned to discuss efforts for deepening Afghanistan-Qatar ties and mutual cooperation in various areas," said the official adding that Ghani will also meet the Afghan representatives who are holding talks with Taliban. "But it is clear that Ghani will not meet the Taliban officials as there has been no reduction of violence and they continue to kill innocent civilians," said a senior western diplomat overseeing the ongoing peace process. The intra-Afghan talks are part of a February deal between the militants and the United States that has cleared the way for US forces to withdraw from their longest war. But so far there has been no progress as the warring Afghans have become bogged down on processes and procedures, diplomatic sources said.

Afghan President Ghani travels to Qatar amid peace talks

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;departed for Japan on Sunday&nbsp;but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-who-has-tested-positive-and-negative-in-trumps-circle-332571">In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle</a>

Initially,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;planned to visit all three countries between October&nbsp;4 and October&nbsp;8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October&nbsp;6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia.

In a statement, the State Department said&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-china-protests-erupt-in-mongolia-ahead-of-mike-pompeos-visit-331996">Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit</a>

Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US&nbsp;ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans.

Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in&nbsp;Ulaanbaatar&nbsp;demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus. Also see: In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle Initially, Pompeo planned to visit all three countries between October 4 and October 8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October 6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia. In a statement, the State Department said Pompeo was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary. Also read: Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans. Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in Ulaanbaatar demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

Pompeo shortens Asia trip; cuts visits to Mongolia and South Korea

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases.

Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty.

During the hearing, the court indicted 19 others accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thatta water supply case.

The court last week had indicted Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur in a mega money laundering case.

In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Ali Zardari are accused of purchasing 2,460 kanals of prime property in Islamabad at extremely depreciated rates using frontmen.

In the Thatta water supply case, a private contractor was illegaly awarded project contracts. In the money laundering case, it is alleged fake accounts were used by the former president and other accused to park and launder ill-gotten wealth.

The court has rejected Zardari's plea seeking acquittal in all three cases.

The husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested last year by the National Accountability Bureau and probed for months before being released in December on medical grounds.

Zardari has maintained the allegations against him are a vilification campaign by Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases. Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty.

An anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Monday indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thatta Water Supply cases. Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty. During the hearing, the court indicted 19 others accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thatta water supply case. The court last week had indicted Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur in a mega money laundering case. In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Ali Zardari are accused of purchasing 2,460 kanals of prime property in Islamabad at extremely depreciated rates using frontmen. In the Thatta water supply case, a private contractor was illegaly awarded project contracts. In the money laundering case, it is alleged fake accounts were used by the former president and other accused to park and launder ill-gotten wealth. The court has rejected Zardari's plea seeking acquittal in all three cases. The husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto was arrested last year by the National Accountability Bureau and probed for months before being released in December on medical grounds. Zardari has maintained the allegations against him are a vilification campaign by Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari indicted in Park Lane and Thatta Water cases

British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson has said he expects&nbsp;the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy.

According to British media,&nbsp;Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom. It will contain an Alert Level One which will include the pubs and bars.

The tough new measures were outlined in a document leaked by The Guardian, were parallel to the complete lockdown measures in March.

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In picture: The three-tier 'traffic light' lockdown system

It comes as Britain recorded nearly 23,000 more new cases of the novel virus on Sunday.&nbsp;The total number of COVID-19 infections in the country stands at just over 480,000, with more than 2,400 patients in hospital.

In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation,Johnson&nbsp;said he knew many people were furious with him over perceived inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the local measures, but he was seeking to strike a balance between public health and the wider needs of society and the economy.

"In these areas, and I appreciate the fatigue that people are experiencing, but we have to work together, follow the guidance and get the virus down whilst keeping the economy moving, that's the balance we're trying to find," he said in an interview.

"I know people are furious at me and they're furious at the government, but I've got to tell you, in all candour, it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond, but this is the only way to do it."

Johnson&nbsp;had to correct himself on social media on Tuesday after getting his facts wrong while answering a question about social distancing rules that apply to a large swathe of England.

During his Sunday interview,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;denied a suggestion that the local restrictions were not working given infection rates were still rising in the affected areas and there was no end in sight to the measures.

"I'm afraid it's simply too early to say," he said, adding that the advice to the government was that it was necessary to wait and see if the R number, the reproduction rate of the virus, started to come down.

Striking a more optimistic note,&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;said he expected the scientific equation to change over the coming months with progress on testing and on vaccines, which would enable the government to take a different approach.

"If you talk to the scientists, they're all virtually unanimous that by the spring things will be radically different and we'll be in a different world, that is the normal cycle of a pandemic like this," he said.

Asked about past promises and forecasts he had made that had not been matched by reality, such as his prediction that Britain's test-and-trace system would be "world-beating",&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;defended his rhetoric.

"This is a pandemic in which people need to understand that there is hope," he said. "We will get through this very well."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he expects the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy. According to British media, Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he expects the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy. According to British media, Johnson is planning a three-tier lockdown ''traffic light'' lockdown system for the United Kingdom. It will contain an Alert Level One which will include the pubs and bars. The tough new measures were outlined in a document leaked by The Guardian, were parallel to the complete lockdown measures in March. In picture: The three-tier 'traffic light' lockdown system It comes as Britain recorded nearly 23,000 more new cases of the novel virus on Sunday. The total number of COVID-19 infections in the country stands at just over 480,000, with more than 2,400 patients in hospital. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation,Johnson said he knew many people were furious with him over perceived inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the local measures, but he was seeking to strike a balance between public health and the wider needs of society and the economy. "In these areas, and I appreciate the fatigue that people are experiencing, but we have to work together, follow the guidance and get the virus down whilst keeping the economy moving, that's the balance we're trying to find," he said in an interview. "I know people are furious at me and they're furious at the government, but I've got to tell you, in all candour, it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond, but this is the only way to do it." Johnson had to correct himself on social media on Tuesday after getting his facts wrong while answering a question about social distancing rules that apply to a large swathe of England. During his Sunday interview, Johnson denied a suggestion that the local restrictions were not working given infection rates were still rising in the affected areas and there was no end in sight to the measures. "I'm afraid it's simply too early to say," he said, adding that the advice to the government was that it was necessary to wait and see if the R number, the reproduction rate of the virus, started to come down. Striking a more optimistic note, Johnson said he expected the scientific equation to change over the coming months with progress on testing and on vaccines, which would enable the government to take a different approach. "If you talk to the scientists, they're all virtually unanimous that by the spring things will be radically different and we'll be in a different world, that is the normal cycle of a pandemic like this," he said. Asked about past promises and forecasts he had made that had not been matched by reality, such as his prediction that Britain's test-and-trace system would be "world-beating", Johnson defended his rhetoric. "This is a pandemic in which people need to understand that there is hope," he said. "We will get through this very well."

Boris Johnson warns bumpy COVID winter; mulling 'three-tier lockdown'

Online abuse is driving girls to quit social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, with nearly 60 per cent&nbsp;experiencing harassment, a global study showed on Sunday.

One in five girls and young women has abandoned or cut down on using a social media platform after being targeted, with some saying harassment started when they were as young as eight, the survey by girls’ rights group Plan International showed.

“Girls are being silenced by a toxic level of harassment,” said the organisation’s chief executive, Anne-Birgitte Albrectsen.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-failing-women-as-online-abuse-flourishes-says-amnesty-36559">Twitter failing women as online abuse flourishes, says Amnesty</a>

Attacks were most common on Facebook, where 39 per cent&nbsp;of girls polled said they had been harassed, followed by Instagram (23 per cent), WhatsApp (14 per cent), Snapchat (10 per cent), Twitter (9 per cent) and TikTok (6 per cent).

The charity, which will share the report with social media companies and lawmakers around the world, said the abuse was suppressing girls’ voices at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic was increasing the importance of communicating online.

It called on social media companies to take urgent action to address the issue and urged governments to pass laws to deal with online harassment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/web-is-not-working-for-women-girls-internet-founder-285988">Web is not working for women, girls: Internet founder</a>

The study found reporting tools were ineffective in stopping the abuse, which included explicit messages, pornographic photos and cyberstalking.

Nearly half of girls targeted had been threatened with physical or sexual violence, according to the poll. Many said the abuse took a mental toll, and a quarter felt physically unsafe.

“It is time for this to stop. Girls should not have to put up with behaviour online which would be criminal on the streets,” the report said.

Facebook and Instagram said they used artificial intelligence to look for bullying content, constantly monitored users’ reports of abuse and always removed rape threats.

Twitter said it also used technology to catch abusive content and has launched tools to improve users’ control over their conversations.

The survey polled 14,000 girls and young women aged 15 to 25 in 22 countries including Brazil, India, Nigeria, Spain, Thailand and the United States.

Online abuse is driving girls to quit social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, with nearly 60 per cent experiencing harassment, a global study showed on Sunday.

Online abuse is driving girls to quit social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, with nearly 60 per cent experiencing harassment, a global study showed on Sunday. One in five girls and young women has abandoned or cut down on using a social media platform after being targeted, with some saying harassment started when they were as young as eight, the survey by girls’ rights group Plan International showed. “Girls are being silenced by a toxic level of harassment,” said the organisation’s chief executive, Anne-Birgitte Albrectsen. Also read: Twitter failing women as online abuse flourishes, says Amnesty Attacks were most common on Facebook, where 39 per cent of girls polled said they had been harassed, followed by Instagram (23 per cent), WhatsApp (14 per cent), Snapchat (10 per cent), Twitter (9 per cent) and TikTok (6 per cent). The charity, which will share the report with social media companies and lawmakers around the world, said the abuse was suppressing girls’ voices at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic was increasing the importance of communicating online. It called on social media companies to take urgent action to address the issue and urged governments to pass laws to deal with online harassment. Also read: Web is not working for women, girls: Internet founder The study found reporting tools were ineffective in stopping the abuse, which included explicit messages, pornographic photos and cyberstalking. Nearly half of girls targeted had been threatened with physical or sexual violence, according to the poll. Many said the abuse took a mental toll, and a quarter felt physically unsafe. “It is time for this to stop. Girls should not have to put up with behaviour online which would be criminal on the streets,” the report said. Facebook and Instagram said they used artificial intelligence to look for bullying content, constantly monitored users’ reports of abuse and always removed rape threats. Twitter said it also used technology to catch abusive content and has launched tools to improve users’ control over their conversations. The survey polled 14,000 girls and young women aged 15 to 25 in 22 countries including Brazil, India, Nigeria, Spain, Thailand and the United States.

'Toxic': Online violence against women 'flourishing'; driving them away from social media

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Sunday his son will join trials of Sputnik V, the coronavirus vaccine which was met with caution when Russia announced it was the world's first to be approved.

An initial batch of the vaccine arrived in Venezuela on Friday, the government announced, and 2,000 residents will participate in the trials.

"In this clinical trial phase, my son, Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra, told me of his decision to be vaccinated with the Russian vaccine, to join the trial. I think it is very good," the socialist leader said in a speech on state television network VTV.

Maduro's sister is also a volunteer for the clinical trials.

Maduro Guerra, 30, is also a politician and a member of his father's governing United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV).

Named "Sputnik V" after the historic Soviet-era satellite, the vaccine was met with skepticism from the global medical community.

Russia in August declared itself the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine, although it is still undergoing large-scale clinical trials after promising results.

The drug is currently in Phase 3, the human testing state, and according to Moscow, more than 40,000 volunteers have been inoculated during the process.

"When the entire scientific, clinical and testing phase is closed, voluntary vaccination will come... As soon as we start mass vaccination, I am going to be the first one to get it," Maduro said.

Russia has been one of Maduro's main backers in the face of international pressure led by Washington, which seeks to displace him from power because it considers his reelection to have been fraudulent.

The US, as well as some 50 other countries, recognize Maduro's opponent, National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido, as Venezuela's interim president.

Guaido slammed the decision to participate in the Russian trials, saying, "They use our people as guinea pigs."

According to official figures, as of Saturday, Venezuela has registered 77,646 cases of Covid-19 out of the entire 30 million population, and 649 deaths. These numbers are disputed by the country's opposition and international organizations such as Human Rights Watch.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Sunday his son will join trials of Sputnik V, the coronavirus vaccine which was met with caution when Russia announced it was the world's first to be approved.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Sunday his son will join trials of Sputnik V, the coronavirus vaccine which was met with caution when Russia announced it was the world's first to be approved. An initial batch of the vaccine arrived in Venezuela on Friday, the government announced, and 2,000 residents will participate in the trials. "In this clinical trial phase, my son, Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra, told me of his decision to be vaccinated with the Russian vaccine, to join the trial. I think it is very good," the socialist leader said in a speech on state television network VTV. Maduro's sister is also a volunteer for the clinical trials. Maduro Guerra, 30, is also a politician and a member of his father's governing United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). Named "Sputnik V" after the historic Soviet-era satellite, the vaccine was met with skepticism from the global medical community. Russia in August declared itself the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine, although it is still undergoing large-scale clinical trials after promising results. The drug is currently in Phase 3, the human testing state, and according to Moscow, more than 40,000 volunteers have been inoculated during the process. "When the entire scientific, clinical and testing phase is closed, voluntary vaccination will come... As soon as we start mass vaccination, I am going to be the first one to get it," Maduro said. Russia has been one of Maduro's main backers in the face of international pressure led by Washington, which seeks to displace him from power because it considers his reelection to have been fraudulent. The US, as well as some 50 other countries, recognize Maduro's opponent, National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido, as Venezuela's interim president. Guaido slammed the decision to participate in the Russian trials, saying, "They use our people as guinea pigs." According to official figures, as of Saturday, Venezuela has registered 77,646 cases of Covid-19 out of the entire 30 million population, and 649 deaths. These numbers are disputed by the country's opposition and international organizations such as Human Rights Watch.

Venezuela's Maduro says son to join virus vaccine trial

One-fifth of Russians now approve of poisoned Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, according to an opinion poll published on Friday, a figure more than twice as high as a year ago but one accompanied by a doubling of disapproval of his activities.

A vocal opponent of President Vladimir Putin, Navalny, 44, fell ill on a domestic flight in August and was airlifted to a Berlin hospital. Germany says he was poisoned with a rare nerve agent. Russia says it has seen no evidence he was poisoned.

His case has attracted attention worldwide and at home, with Western leaders demanding an explanation from the Kremlin over what happened.

According to the poll by the Levada Centre, conducted in late September, 20 per cent&nbsp;of respondents approve of Navalny's activities, while 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;do not. In 2019, his approval rating was 9 per cent, but the percentage of those who disapproved of him was also lower, at 25 per cent.

Of those who had heard about Navalny's poisoning, 55&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;said they did not believe it was a deliberate act

Russia's diplomatic mission to the EU last month quoted a previous survey putting Navalny's popularity at only 2&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;and commented that it would make no sense for Moscow to have poisoned a political opponent with so little support.

Navalny's chief of staff, Leonid Volkov, responded at the time: "It's as if they're saying 'If his rating was 20 per cent, then we would have poisoned him.'"

The Kremlin this week accused Navalny, who has vowed to return to Russia, of working with the CIA after Navalny said he believed Putin was behind the suspected poisoning.

"The problem for those in power is that discrediting Navalny doesn't automatically translate into some kind of affinity towards the Russian authorities," said political analysis firm R.Politik on Telegram.

"It's a false dichotomy: Putin or Navalny. Many don't like either."

Putin's approval rating dipped to 59&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in April, a two-decade low, but had recovered to 69 per cent&nbsp;as of Friday, Levada polling data showed.

One-fifth of Russians now approve of poisoned Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, according to an opinion poll published on Friday, a figure more than twice as high as a year ago but one accompanied by a doubling of disapproval of his activities.

One-fifth of Russians now approve of poisoned Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, according to an opinion poll published on Friday, a figure more than twice as high as a year ago but one accompanied by a doubling of disapproval of his activities. A vocal opponent of President Vladimir Putin, Navalny, 44, fell ill on a domestic flight in August and was airlifted to a Berlin hospital. Germany says he was poisoned with a rare nerve agent. Russia says it has seen no evidence he was poisoned. His case has attracted attention worldwide and at home, with Western leaders demanding an explanation from the Kremlin over what happened. According to the poll by the Levada Centre, conducted in late September, 20 per cent of respondents approve of Navalny's activities, while 50 per cent do not. In 2019, his approval rating was 9 per cent, but the percentage of those who disapproved of him was also lower, at 25 per cent. Of those who had heard about Navalny's poisoning, 55 per cent said they did not believe it was a deliberate act Russia's diplomatic mission to the EU last month quoted a previous survey putting Navalny's popularity at only 2 per cent and commented that it would make no sense for Moscow to have poisoned a political opponent with so little support. Navalny's chief of staff, Leonid Volkov, responded at the time: "It's as if they're saying 'If his rating was 20 per cent, then we would have poisoned him.'" The Kremlin this week accused Navalny, who has vowed to return to Russia, of working with the CIA after Navalny said he believed Putin was behind the suspected poisoning. "The problem for those in power is that discrediting Navalny doesn't automatically translate into some kind of affinity towards the Russian authorities," said political analysis firm R.Politik on Telegram. "It's a false dichotomy: Putin or Navalny. Many don't like either." Putin's approval rating dipped to 59 per cent in April, a two-decade low, but had recovered to 69 per cent as of Friday, Levada polling data showed.

Putin critic Navalny's approval rating surges in wake of poisoning

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said.

"It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region.

"Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said.

The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise.

The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said.

In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said.

"India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said.

The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28.

Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations.

In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship.

India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said.

The Indian and Bangladeshi navies will hold a mega military exercise in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday which will be followed by a two-day joint maritime patrolling in the region to further expand operational coordination between the two forces, officials said. A wide spectrum of maritime drills and operations will be conducted as part of the annual 'Bongosagar' exercise whose first edition was held in October last year, they said. "It is aimed at developing inter-operability and joint operational skills through conduct of a wide spectrum of maritime exercises and operations. Ships from both navies will participate in surface warfare drills, seamanship evolutions and helicopter operations," an Indian Navy spokesperson said. He said the exercise will be followed by the third edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) in Northern Bay of Bengal on October 4 and 5 under which both navies will undertake joint patrolling in the region. "Conduct of CORPAT has strengthened understanding between both the navies and instituted measures to stop conduct of unlawful activities," he said. The Indian Navy will deploy anti-submarine warfare corvette Kiltan and guided-missile corvette Khukri in the 'Bongosagar' exercise. The Bangladeshi navy will be represented by guided-missile frigate Abu Bakr and guided-missile corvette Prottoy, the officials said. In addition to ships, maritime patrol aircraft as well as a number of helicopters from both navies would also be participating in the exercise, they said. "India and Bangladesh have a close, long-standing relationship covering a wide spectrum of activities and interactions, which has strengthened over the years," the Indian Navy spokesperson said. The Indian Navy has participated in a number of joint maritime exercises in the last few weeks including a three-day drill with Japanese navy from September 26-28. Last month, Indian Navy also carried out a two-day mega exercise in the Indian Ocean Region with the Australian Navy that featured a range of complex naval manoeuvres, anti-aircraft drills and helicopter operations. In July, the Indian Navy carried out a military exercise with a US Navy carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The USS Nimitz is the world's largest warship. India has significantly expanded its deployment in the Indian Ocean Region with a plethora of warships and submarines following its border row with China in eastern Ladakh, ostensibly to send across a message to Beijing.

Navies of India, Bangladesh to hold 3-day mega military exercise from Saturday

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream.

He also underlined the need to amplify the rich history of Indian science and said many historical questions have been solved with the help of science over the last century.

"India's clarion call of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Sel-Reliant India) includes a vision of global welfare. To realise this dream, I invite you all and seek your support," Modi said at the inauguration of?the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit, a global virtual summit of overseas and resident Indian researchers and academicians being organised from October 2-31, 2020.

"Recently India introduced pioneering space reforms. These reforms provide opportunities for both industry and the academia," Modi said while listing numerous steps taken by his government to boost science, research and innovation.

He further said the government wants top-class scientific research to help the farmers.

"Our agricultural research scientists have worked hard to ramp up our production of pulses. Today we import only a very small fraction of our pulses. Our food-grain production has hit a record high," he said.

Modi further said his government is encouraging indigenous vaccine production.

"Four new vaccines were introduced into our communication programme in 2014 including an indigenously developed Rotavirus vaccine," he said.

PM Modi said the VAIBHAV summit has brought together eminent people from India as well as from abroad, making it a confluence of great minds from across the world.

"You have also made some good suggestions for improving the research ecosystem in India. I hope this summit is going to be very productive," he told the participants.

Referring to the time periods like the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age, the space age and the digital age, Modi said each of those marked some key technological advancements.

"I would like to thank the scientists who offered their suggestions and ideas today. You have brilliantly covered many subjects. Most of you highlighted the importance of greater collaboration between the Indian academic and research ecosystem with their foreign counterparts," he said.

The aim of the summit is to bring Indian origin luminaries in academic institutes and R&amp;D organisations across the world and resident counterparts on a single platform to debate upon collaboration mechanisms to strengthen academic and S&amp;T (science and technology) base in India for global development.

The inauguration was followed by online deliberation sessions.

The initiative involves multiple levels of interactions among overseas experts and Indian counterparts over a month-long series of webinars and video conferences, among other activities. More than 3,000 overseas Indian origin academicians and scientists from 55 countries and more than 10,000 resident academicians and scientists are taking part in the summit.

About 200 academic institutes and S&amp;T departments, led by Principal Scientific Advisor, are organising the summit running through October.

Over 1,500 panelists from 40 countries, 200 leading Indian R&amp;D and academic institutions are virtually deliberating in 18 different areas and 80 topics in more than 200 deliberation sessions.

The concluding session is planned on October 31 on the occasion of Sardar Patel Jayanti.

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream.

Asserting that the world also takes a leap ahead when India prospers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the clarion call for an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' includes a vision of global welfare and sought support of the Indian diaspora to realise this dream. He also underlined the need to amplify the rich history of Indian science and said many historical questions have been solved with the help of science over the last century. "India's clarion call of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Sel-Reliant India) includes a vision of global welfare. To realise this dream, I invite you all and seek your support," Modi said at the inauguration of?the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit, a global virtual summit of overseas and resident Indian researchers and academicians being organised from October 2-31, 2020. "Recently India introduced pioneering space reforms. These reforms provide opportunities for both industry and the academia," Modi said while listing numerous steps taken by his government to boost science, research and innovation. He further said the government wants top-class scientific research to help the farmers. "Our agricultural research scientists have worked hard to ramp up our production of pulses. Today we import only a very small fraction of our pulses. Our food-grain production has hit a record high," he said. Modi further said his government is encouraging indigenous vaccine production. "Four new vaccines were introduced into our communication programme in 2014 including an indigenously developed Rotavirus vaccine," he said. PM Modi said the VAIBHAV summit has brought together eminent people from India as well as from abroad, making it a confluence of great minds from across the world. "You have also made some good suggestions for improving the research ecosystem in India. I hope this summit is going to be very productive," he told the participants. Referring to the time periods like the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age, the space age and the digital age, Modi said each of those marked some key technological advancements. "I would like to thank the scientists who offered their suggestions and ideas today. You have brilliantly covered many subjects. Most of you highlighted the importance of greater collaboration between the Indian academic and research ecosystem with their foreign counterparts," he said. The aim of the summit is to bring Indian origin luminaries in academic institutes and R&D organisations across the world and resident counterparts on a single platform to debate upon collaboration mechanisms to strengthen academic and S&T (science and technology) base in India for global development. The inauguration was followed by online deliberation sessions. The initiative involves multiple levels of interactions among overseas experts and Indian counterparts over a month-long series of webinars and video conferences, among other activities. More than 3,000 overseas Indian origin academicians and scientists from 55 countries and more than 10,000 resident academicians and scientists are taking part in the summit. About 200 academic institutes and S&T departments, led by Principal Scientific Advisor, are organising the summit running through October. Over 1,500 panelists from 40 countries, 200 leading Indian R&D and academic institutions are virtually deliberating in 18 different areas and 80 topics in more than 200 deliberation sessions. The concluding session is planned on October 31 on the occasion of Sardar Patel Jayanti.

Self-Reliant India Mission includes vision for global welfare: PM Modi

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused political rival and former premier&nbsp;Nawaz Sharif of getting backing from&nbsp;India.

"Sharif has gone to the United Kingdom and is playing India's game. He is attacking Pakistan sitting over there. He is 100 per cent getting backing from India,"&nbsp;Imran Khan said in statement.

The Pakistan&nbsp;prime minister is trying to politicise the cases against the former Opposition leaders&nbsp;and by portraying them as a India versus Pakistan issue so that he can win the support of the military which plays a crucial role in the country in deciding who stays in power.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-push-for-nawaz-sharifs-deportation-from-uk-331398">Pakistan government to push for Nawaz Sharif's deportation from UK</a>

He has asked authorities to take steps to bring back PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif from London, where he has been staying since November 2019 on medical grounds, and to ensure that the former premier faces the corruption cases pending against him in various Pakistan&nbsp;courts.

A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Thursday ordered seizure of assets of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his failure to appear in the Toshakhana graft case, days after he was declared an absconder in the matter that allegedly caused heavy loss to the national exchequer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-orders-seizure-of-nawaz-sharifs-assets-in-toshakhana-graft-case-331805">Pak court orders seizure of Nawaz Sharif's assets in Toshakhana graft case</a>

An anti-corruption court on September 9 had indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yusuf Raza Gillani, while declared Sharif an absconder in the case.

The Islamabad-based accountability court was hearing the case filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which submitted a detailed record of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo's movable and immovable properties.

The accountability Judge Asghar Ali ordered the authorities to freeze Sharif's national and international bank accounts and seize his 206 acres of agricultural land in Lahore and 12.75 acres in Sheikhupura, as well as his house in Murree in Punjab province.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-pemra-bans-speeches-of-proclaimed-offenders-331953" hreflang="en">Pakistan's PEMRA bans speeches of 'proclaimed offenders'</a>

Two tractors and cars that the 70-year-old leader allegedly obtained from the Toshakhana (state gift depository) after paying 15 per cent of the price are also included among assets the court has ordered to seize.

The Toshakhana graft case is about alleged relaxation of rules by Gilani, 68, for the benefit of Zardari, 65, and Sharif to buy vehicles gifted by foreign countries.

Sharif is accused of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house by paying just 15 per cent of the price of these vehicles.

Similarly, Zardari and Gilani, are also accused of receiving luxury vehicles and gifts from the treasure house.

These investigations are a part of PM Imran Khan's anti-corruption drive which is partially targetting Opposition members.

Khan is also censoring the media.&nbsp;The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has banned broadcast and rebroadcast of any speech, interview or public address of absconders or proclaimed offenders, it was reported.

The PEMRA order cites a 2019 rule that prevents channels from giving a platform to convicts and absconders. However, &nbsp;the government was not always this eager to de-platform convicts.

Imran Khan seems rattled by the Opposition's unity and&nbsp;is keen on ensuring that Nawaz Sharif's political comeback does not receive traction within the country.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused political rival and former premier Nawaz Sharif of getting backing from India. "Sharif has gone to the United Kingdom and is playing India's game.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused political rival and former premier Nawaz Sharif of getting backing from India. "Sharif has gone to the United Kingdom and is playing India's game. He is attacking Pakistan sitting over there. He is 100 per cent getting backing from India," Imran Khan said in statement. The Pakistan prime minister is trying to politicise the cases against the former Opposition leaders and by portraying them as a India versus Pakistan issue so that he can win the support of the military which plays a crucial role in the country in deciding who stays in power. Also read: Pakistan government to push for Nawaz Sharif's deportation from UK He has asked authorities to take steps to bring back PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif from London, where he has been staying since November 2019 on medical grounds, and to ensure that the former premier faces the corruption cases pending against him in various Pakistan courts. A Pakistan anti-corruption court on Thursday ordered seizure of assets of deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his failure to appear in the Toshakhana graft case, days after he was declared an absconder in the matter that allegedly caused heavy loss to the national exchequer. Also read: Pak court orders seizure of Nawaz Sharif's assets in Toshakhana graft case An anti-corruption court on September 9 had indicted former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-prime minister Yusuf Raza Gillani, while declared Sharif an absconder in the case. The Islamabad-based accountability court was hearing the case filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which submitted a detailed record of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo's movable and immovable properties. The accountability Judge Asghar Ali ordered the authorities to freeze Sharif's national and international bank accounts and seize his 206 acres of agricultural land in Lahore and 12.75 acres in Sheikhupura, as well as his house in Murree in Punjab province. Also read: Pakistan's PEMRA bans speeches of 'proclaimed offenders' Two tractors and cars that the 70-year-old leader allegedly obtained from the Toshakhana (state gift depository) after paying 15 per cent of the price are also included among assets the court has ordered to seize. The Toshakhana graft case is about alleged relaxation of rules by Gilani, 68, for the benefit of Zardari, 65, and Sharif to buy vehicles gifted by foreign countries. Sharif is accused of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house by paying just 15 per cent of the price of these vehicles. Similarly, Zardari and Gilani, are also accused of receiving luxury vehicles and gifts from the treasure house. These investigations are a part of PM Imran Khan's anti-corruption drive which is partially targetting Opposition members. Khan is also censoring the media. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has banned broadcast and rebroadcast of any speech, interview or public address of absconders or proclaimed offenders, it was reported. The PEMRA order cites a 2019 rule that prevents channels from giving a platform to convicts and absconders. However, the government was not always this eager to de-platform convicts. Imran Khan seems rattled by the Opposition's unity and is keen on ensuring that Nawaz Sharif's political comeback does not receive traction within the country.

Now, Pak PM Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of 'playing India's game'

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