New Delhi, India

My grandmother, family 'Shiv Bhakts', says Rahul Gandhi after controversy over his religion

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Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday clarified that he and his family members were "Shiv Bhakts" (devotees of Lord Shiva) but that he did not want to use his religion for political gains or "dalali" (deals).

Rahul Gandhi's remarks came a day after the controversy over his religion. The Congress leader alleged that some BJP workers entered had entered his name in the register meant for non-Hindus at Gujarat's famous Somnath temple leading to the controversy.

He also said he did not need anybody's certificate about his religion, nor would he do 'dalali' (deal) over religion.

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Cyclone Ockhi: Navy deployed for rescue operations

The Indian Navy has been deployed for rescue operations as cyclonic storm Ockhi hit the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala yesterday wreaking havoc in the two states, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said.

At least 80 fishermen and 50 boats have gone missing, ANI reported. The navy said today it has launched rescue operations.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued an alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall in both the states.

Schools in Chennai, Kanyakumari, Tuticorin, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Madurai, Theni, Thanjavur and Thiruvarur will remain closed today, ANI reported.

Barack Obama to address town hall in Delhi today

Former US President Barack Obama is going to address a town hall in Delhi today for the Obama Foundation.

Obama will be speaking at a media conclave where he will also interact with nearly 300 young leaders from across the country.

The former US President is also expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Ryan School murder: Supreme Court to hear plea challenging Pinto family's anticipatory bail

The Supreme Court will hear a petition filed by Pradyuman Thakur's family challenging the anticipatory bail granted to the Pintos' who are the founder of the Ryan Group of Institutions.

The Pinto family got an anticipatory bail in connection with the murder case by Punjab and Haryana High Court on November 21.

Magnitude 6.0 earthquake hits southeast Iran

A strong quake of magnitude 6.0 struck southeastern Iran near the city of Kerman on Friday, the US Geological Survey said.

The quake, initially reported as a magnitude 6.3, was centered 36 miles (58 km) northeast of Kerman, which has a population of more than 821,000.

A magnitude 6.0 quake is considered capable of causing severe damage.