Israeli-American rabbi ridicules Hindu beliefs over cow worship, faces backlash | Video

All votes counted, Netanyahu’s Likud emerges as biggest party with 27 seats; majority eludes both blocs

AI APOCALYPSE is coming: The bubble of overvalued stocks, underperforming apps will burst soon, but who will survive?

2.8 million eels gather near an Australian mountain every year. Here's why

Turkish ambassador Ali Murat Ersoy says India and Turkey ‘cannot remain strangers’

India's Bihar museum among top 10 in the world, beats Paris's Louvre

From hunger to heroin, Afghanistan’s opium crisis threatens the world again | Gravitas

IND vs NZ: Shreyas Iyer breaks record for most T20I runs by an Indian captain in a year

Rubio warns of 'moment of choosing' at G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting as Russian FM Lavrov's presence forces cancellation of 'family photo'

Why is US Army preparing for mass battlefield burials amid Iran tensions?

Trump says US 'looking at' possible North Korean role in $6.3 billion Binance crypto heist

Rakul Preet Singh on playing Surpanakha in Ramayana: 'She is a character with a significant place'

Prediction markets are betting big on the US midterms. But can they get it right?

ISRO's GSLV-F18 launch success revives NAVIC, but there's a catch...

Game of Thrones actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau takes shelter alongside Kyiv residents amid air raid threat

'Make s**t houses great again': Norway hits back at Trump's insult with genius level toilet humour

Ilhan Omar's alleged brother and ex-husband calls himself a 'gay man' in academic paper - 'extremely feminine Somali guy'

Arijit Singh and Karan Aujla to perform at ‘HOME’ in Goa: Read details here

US midterms: Early voting crosses record 47.9 million, Democrats lead Republicans

WPL 2027 auction: Top 5 most expensive signings

'Was that on air?': Israeli actress Chelli Goldenberg says she's 'no longer proud to be Israeli', realises interview is live | Watch video

Physicist predicted Friday the 13th 'doomsday' in 1960. It is 13 days away

Florence Pugh kisses female friend, rocks black bikini during Turkey vacation

BJP to stage protest over anti-Sikh riots on November 1, same day as INDIA bloc’s ‘Chalo Dilli’ rally

Poland in political turmoil as Karol Nawrocki returns mid-flight amid Constitutional Court 'coup d'etat' claims. What's happening?

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Putin's war warning shakes Europe: NATO builds war bunkers, Britain stockpiles food | Gravitas

Why have Trump and JD Vance cancelled weekend appearances ahead of US midterms?

US Midterms 2026 IST guide: What time do polls close and when to watch live in India?

Iran says US ‘carrot-and-stick’ approach will not work as Tehran receives Vance’s letter amid push for talks

The Kerala High Court has held that only sexual intercourse "welcomed" by the woman can be accepted as consensual.

"In social reality, sex that is actually desired by a woman is never termed consensual, for when a sexual interaction is equal, consent is not needed and when it is unequal, the consent cannot make it equal," Justice PB Suresh Kumar said while the high court was hearing an appeal filed by a 59-year-old man who was accused of raping a 14-year-old neighbour girl several times at his house and impregnating her.

"It is settled law that mere act of helpless resignation cannot be deemed to be consent for rape, the court said citing 1958 and 2003 decisions of the Supreme Court (in Rao Harnarain Singh Sheoji Singh Vs. State and Uday Vs State of Karnataka)," Justice Kumar said.

The incidents took place in 2009 and the POCSO Act had not come into being. The high court upheld his conviction and dismissed the appeal.

At the high court, the accused had contended that the relationship was consensual as the girl had come to his house several times after the first encounter and had sex with him.

The girl had deposed that she did so out of fear that her mother and sister would be harmed.

The Kerala High Court has held that only sexual intercourse "welcomed" by the woman can be accepted as consensual. "In social reality, sex that is actually desired by a woman is never termed consensual, for when a sexual interaction is equal, consent is not needed and when it is unequal, the consent cannot make it equal," Justice PB Suresh Kumar said while the high court was hearing an appeal filed by a 59-year-old man who was accused of raping a 14-year-old neighbour girl several times at his house and impregnating her.

The Kerala High Court has held that only sexual intercourse "welcomed" by the woman can be accepted as consensual. "In social reality, sex that is actually desired by a woman is never termed consensual, for when a sexual interaction is equal, consent is not needed and when it is unequal, the consent cannot make it equal," Justice PB Suresh Kumar said while the high court was hearing an appeal filed by a 59-year-old man who was accused of raping a 14-year-old neighbour girl several times at his house and impregnating her. "It is settled law that mere act of helpless resignation cannot be deemed to be consent for rape, the court said citing 1958 and 2003 decisions of the Supreme Court (in Rao Harnarain Singh Sheoji Singh Vs. State and Uday Vs State of Karnataka)," Justice Kumar said. The incidents took place in 2009 and the POCSO Act had not come into being. The high court upheld his conviction and dismissed the appeal. At the high court, the accused had contended that the relationship was consensual as the girl had come to his house several times after the first encounter and had sex with him. The girl had deposed that she did so out of fear that her mother and sister would be harmed.

Only sexual intercourse 'welcomed' by woman can be accepted as consensual: Kerala high court

Kerala government on Tuesday removed IAS officer M Sivasankar from the post of IT secretary. The government said that Mohammed Y. Safirulla will be the new IT secretary.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/106-year-old-delhi-man-who-was-child-during-spanish-flu-in-1918-survives-covid-19-310970" hreflang="en">106-year-old Delhi man who was child during Spanish Flu in 1918 survives COVID-19</a>

Earlier in the day, he was also removed from the post of Principal Secretary of Chief Minister after the Opposition allegation over alleged nexus between Kerala Chief Minister`s Office with Swapna Suresh, a suspect in the gold smuggling case.

On Sunday, thirty kilograms of gold concealed in diplomatic baggage was seized at the Thiruvananthapuram international airport here by the customs department.

The customs sources said Swapna is on the run while Sarith Kumar, a former consulate PRO, was taken into custody and after the interrogation, his arrest was recorded.

Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala has alleged that Swapna was working in the IT department under the Government of Kerala and demanded a CBI probe in the matter.BJP state president K Surendran also alleged that the first call to protect Swapna was from the Chief minister`s Office.

Kerala government on Tuesday removed IAS officer M Sivasankar from the post of IT secretary. The government said that Mohammed Y. Safirulla will be the new IT secretary.

Kerala government on Tuesday removed IAS officer M Sivasankar from the post of IT secretary. The government said that Mohammed Y. Safirulla will be the new IT secretary. Also read: 106-year-old Delhi man who was child during Spanish Flu in 1918 survives COVID-19 Earlier in the day, he was also removed from the post of Principal Secretary of Chief Minister after the Opposition allegation over alleged nexus between Kerala Chief Minister`s Office with Swapna Suresh, a suspect in the gold smuggling case. On Sunday, thirty kilograms of gold concealed in diplomatic baggage was seized at the Thiruvananthapuram international airport here by the customs department. The customs sources said Swapna is on the run while Sarith Kumar, a former consulate PRO, was taken into custody and after the interrogation, his arrest was recorded. Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala has alleged that Swapna was working in the IT department under the Government of Kerala and demanded a CBI probe in the matter.BJP state president K Surendran also alleged that the first call to protect Swapna was from the Chief minister`s Office.

Kerala gold smuggling: IAS officer M Sivasankar removed from IT secretary post

The Goa government has sought the permission of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) for using convalescent plasma therapy to treat COVID-19 patients, health minister Vishwajit Rane said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-tally-surges-past-7-lakh-death-toll-at-20160-311264">Also Read:&nbsp;India’s COVID-19 tally surges past 7 lakh, death toll at 20160</a>

He said the state has all the required facilities to store blood plasma.

Goa has so far recorded 1,813 COVID-19 cases, of which 745 are active while seven have succumbed to the infection.

"The state government has already written to the ICMR seeking their nod to treat COVID-19 patients using the plasma therapy. We will procure the latest equipment to derive plasma from recovered patients," Rane told reporters in Pernem.

The therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those antibodies into an active coronavirus patient to help kickstart the immune system to fight the infection.

He said the government will recruit more doctors to expand the current testing capacity, and will also procure additional ambulances under the existing 108 initiative in view of the growing number of COVID-19 patients. 
Rane referred to an incident wherein a COVID-19 patient from Taleigao village near Panaji was forced to wait for hours for an ambulance. PTI&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Goa government has sought the permission of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) for using convalescent plasma therapy to treat COVID-19 patients, health minister Vishwajit Rane said on Tuesday.

The Goa government has sought the permission of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) for using convalescent plasma therapy to treat COVID-19 patients, health minister Vishwajit Rane said on Tuesday. Also Read: India’s COVID-19 tally surges past 7 lakh, death toll at 20160 He said the state has all the required facilities to store blood plasma. Goa has so far recorded 1,813 COVID-19 cases, of which 745 are active while seven have succumbed to the infection. "The state government has already written to the ICMR seeking their nod to treat COVID-19 patients using the plasma therapy. We will procure the latest equipment to derive plasma from recovered patients," Rane told reporters in Pernem. The therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those antibodies into an active coronavirus patient to help kickstart the immune system to fight the infection. He said the government will recruit more doctors to expand the current testing capacity, and will also procure additional ambulances under the existing 108 initiative in view of the growing number of COVID-19 patients. Rane referred to an incident wherein a COVID-19 patient from Taleigao village near Panaji was forced to wait for hours for an ambulance. PTI

Amid rising COVID-19 cases, Goa seeks ICMR nod for convalescent plasma therapy

More than 15 lakh people have been quarantined in Mumbai after contact-tracing so far since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city civic body said.

Out of these, 5.34 lakh people were identified as high-risk contacts, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-tally-surges-past-7-lakh-death-toll-at-20160-311264">Also Read:&nbsp;India’s COVID-19 tally surges past 7 lakh, death toll at 20160</a>

So far, 13.28 lakh people have completed their 14-day quarantine. As of now, 2.46 lakh people are under home quarantine and 14,288 under institutional quarantine, the BMC said on its website.

Out of 14,288 people under institutional quarantine, 11,409 are lodged at 328 CCC-1 (COVID care centre) facilities, which have a collective capacity of over 50,000 beds, while 2,879 are kept at 57 CCC-2 facilities, having more than 6,100 beds, the BMC said.

The CCC-1 facilities are set up mostly in hotels and halls and do not have 24-hour monitoring facility, while CCC-2 are government facilities where doctors and nurses are available round-the-clock.

The BMC said it has acquired several hotels, guest houses, gymkhanas, halls and other places for institutional quarantine and isolation purposes.

It has sealed 6,552 buildings and declared 750 slums and chawls (small tenements) as containment zones, after one or more persons there tested positive for coronavirus.

Till Monday, Mumbai reported 85,326 COVID-19 cases and 4,935 deaths due to the disease, the BMC said. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 15 lakh people have been quarantined in Mumbai after contact-tracing so far since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city civic body said. Out of these, 5.

More than 15 lakh people have been quarantined in Mumbai after contact-tracing so far since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city civic body said. Out of these, 5.34 lakh people were identified as high-risk contacts, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. Also Read: India’s COVID-19 tally surges past 7 lakh, death toll at 20160 So far, 13.28 lakh people have completed their 14-day quarantine. As of now, 2.46 lakh people are under home quarantine and 14,288 under institutional quarantine, the BMC said on its website. Out of 14,288 people under institutional quarantine, 11,409 are lodged at 328 CCC-1 (COVID care centre) facilities, which have a collective capacity of over 50,000 beds, while 2,879 are kept at 57 CCC-2 facilities, having more than 6,100 beds, the BMC said. The CCC-1 facilities are set up mostly in hotels and halls and do not have 24-hour monitoring facility, while CCC-2 are government facilities where doctors and nurses are available round-the-clock. The BMC said it has acquired several hotels, guest houses, gymkhanas, halls and other places for institutional quarantine and isolation purposes. It has sealed 6,552 buildings and declared 750 slums and chawls (small tenements) as containment zones, after one or more persons there tested positive for coronavirus. Till Monday, Mumbai reported 85,326 COVID-19 cases and 4,935 deaths due to the disease, the BMC said.

Over 15 lakh people quarantined in Mumbai after coronavirus contact-tracing: BMC

After tense border tensions between India-China, Chinese troops have started to pull back at certain locations at the LAC. The first images have emerged from Galway valley and have been taken near PP14.

IAF conducts massive night operations in Ladakh: First pictures from ground zero PP14

COVID-19 has hit demand for air travel across the world including India. The Indian carrier Vistara said that it is in talks with plane makers and leasing companies to delay taking deliveries of some air crafts. Watch report.

COVID-19 has hit demand for air travel: Airlines can fly up to 45% of capacity in India

Indian Army today paid rich tribute to Kargil War hero Captain Vikram on his 21st death anniversary. Captain Batra, who sacrificed his life for India while fighting Pakistani intruders in Kargil, was posthumously honoured with Paramveer Chakra, India's highest military award.

Indian Army today paid rich tribute to Kargil War hero Captain Vikram on his 21st death anniversary. Captain Batra, who sacrificed his life for India while fighting Pakistani intruders in Kargil, was posthumously honoured with Paramveer Chakra, India's highest military award. Commemorating 21 years of the Kargil conflict, the Northern Command tweeted, "#21YearsofKargil #MushkohDay, when most conspicuous bravery of Capt #VikramBatra, PVC(P) & Rfn Sanjay Kumar, PVC in face of enemy facilitated the capture of Pt 4875 by 13 JAK RIF; both awarded #PVC, a rare & distinct first in #IndianArmy history." View this post on Instagram 'ऑपेरशन विजय' भारतीय सेना ने अदम्य साहस,पराक्रम व बलिदान का परिचय देते हुए प्वाइंट 4875 पर कब्ज़ा किया। जयघोष से द्रास की श्रंखलाएं गूंज उठी। मातृभूमि के प्रति अपनी निष्ठा और समर्पण से सदैव भारतीय वसुंधरा को गौरवान्वित करने वाले देश के वीर जवानों को हमारा नमन्। #सर्वदा #विजयी A post shared by Indian Army (@indianarmy.adgpi) on Jul 6, 2020 at 7:43pm PDT × Captain Batra was born on September 9, 1974 in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh and he started his military life on December 6, 1997 with the 13th battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles of Indian Army. Captain Batra was posted in Shahjahanpur in Uttar Pradesh when he was summoned to join the troops in Dras sector of Jammu and Kashmir during Kargil war. ‘Chanakya …it’s Shershah reporting!! We’ve captured the post! Yeh Dil Maange More!’ Batra told his Commanding Officer after securing Point 5140 (Tiger Hill) on June 20. #21YearsofKargil#MushkohDay,when most conspicuous bravery of Capt #VikramBatra, PVC(P) & Rfn Sanjay Kumar, PVC in face of enemy facilitated capture of Pt 4875 by 13 JAK RIF; both awarded #PVC,a rare & distinct first in #IndianArmy history.@adgpi Tribute "#IAmBack"- @MajorAkhill pic.twitter.com/w3vvyIJ73w — NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) July 7, 2020 × On July 7, 1999, in another operation in the area of Point 4875, Batra sustained bullet injuries and later died. Inspired by his bravery, his troops, however, fought bravely and captured Point 4875.

Indian Army's Kargil War hero Captain Vikram Batra remembered

The officials of Odisha government on Tuesday announced that the State recorded the biggest single-day spike of COVID19 cases with 571 new cases in the last 24 hours.

Of the 571 new cases, 403 were reported from different quarantine centres while 168 were local contacts, the official said, adding that contact tracing and follow-up actions are underway. 
 
There are 3,557 active cases in the state and 6,486 patients have recovered.

In the last 24 hours, 5,546 COVID-19 samples were tested and a total of 3, 02,780 tests have been conducted in the state so far, the official said.

Odisha will start a serology survey in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Ganjam from Tuesday.

(With inputs from PTI)

The officials of Odisha government on Tuesday announced that the State recorded the biggest single-day spike of COVID19 cases with 571 new cases in the last 24 hours.

The officials of Odisha government on Tuesday announced that the State recorded the biggest single-day spike of COVID19 cases with 571 new cases in the last 24 hours. Of the 571 new cases, 403 were reported from different quarantine centres while 168 were local contacts, the official said, adding that contact tracing and follow-up actions are underway. There are 3,557 active cases in the state and 6,486 patients have recovered. In the last 24 hours, 5,546 COVID-19 samples were tested and a total of 3, 02,780 tests have been conducted in the state so far, the official said. Odisha will start a serology survey in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Ganjam from Tuesday. (With inputs from PTI)

Covid-19: Odisha records biggest single-day spike, state tally crosses 10,000-mark

In yet another grim&nbsp;development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated&nbsp;in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

Mumbai presently&nbsp;has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer.

China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone.

In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1.

The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer.

On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer.

Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK.

Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37.

In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday. Mumbai presently has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer. China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone. In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1. The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer. On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer. Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK. Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37. In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

Now, Mumbai overtakes China in COVID-19 deaths and cases

The US has thanked India for hosting the Dalai Lama since 1959 as the world commemorated the 85th birthday of the Tibetan spiritual leader.

The Dalai Lama has been living in India ever since he fled Tibet in 1959 following a Chinese invasion on Tibet. The Tibetan government-in-exile operates from Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh. Over 1,60,000 Tibetans live in India.

"Happy 85th birthday to His Holiness @DalaiLama, who has inspired the world through his peace &amp; kindness, and as a symbol of the struggle for Tibetans and their heritage. We thank India for hosting His Holiness and Tibetans in freedom since 1959 &amp; wish His Holiness happiness," the US State Department's South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) bureau tweeted on Monday.

Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi also conveyed her greetings to the Tibetan spiritual leader on his birthday.

"The Dalai Lama is a messenger of hope, whose spiritual guidance has been a vital force to advance warm-heartedness and compassion, promote religious harmony, secure human rights and preserve the language and culture of the Tibetan people," she said.

Sadly, the aspirations of His Holiness and the Tibetan people remain unfulfilled as the oppressive Chinese regime continues its disgraceful campaign of persecution, Ms Pelosi said.

She noted that the US Congress on a bipartisan basis has long spoken with one voice in defence of those persecuted by Beijing and will continue to do so.

In January, House Democrats defended the rights of Tibetans to practice their faith, speak their language and celebrate their culture free from Beijing's repressive grip by passing the Tibet Policy and Support Act, which makes clear the US position that interference by Beijing in the process of recognising a successor or reincarnation of the 14th Dalai Lama would represent a clear violation of the religious freedoms of the Tibetan people.

"The Senate must pass this bipartisan legislation and support the bond of friendship that has existed between the United States, the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people for decades," Ms Pelosi said.

In honour of this special day and of the dreams of the Tibetan people, America remains committed to opposing the acceleration of Beijing's aggression toward the people of Tibet, as well as its brutal campaign against the Uyghur people, its suppression of free speech and assault on the 'one country, two systems' doctrine in Hong Kong, and its violent efforts to undermine religious freedom and human rights throughout China, she said.

"May this next year bring His Holiness The Dalai Lama, the people of Tibet and all those working to advance freedom in China and around the world a future of peace, security and prosperity for all," Ms Pelosi said.

Congressman Andy Levin in a tweet wished the Dalai Lama a joyous birthday. "May we all follow the example set by His Holiness in the coming year and work towards a more peaceful world," he said.

The US has thanked India for hosting the Dalai Lama since 1959 as the world commemorated the 85th birthday of the Tibetan spiritual leader. The Dalai Lama has been living in India ever since he fled Tibet in 1959 following a Chinese invasion on Tibet.

The US has thanked India for hosting the Dalai Lama since 1959 as the world commemorated the 85th birthday of the Tibetan spiritual leader. The Dalai Lama has been living in India ever since he fled Tibet in 1959 following a Chinese invasion on Tibet. The Tibetan government-in-exile operates from Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh. Over 1,60,000 Tibetans live in India. "Happy 85th birthday to His Holiness @DalaiLama, who has inspired the world through his peace & kindness, and as a symbol of the struggle for Tibetans and their heritage. We thank India for hosting His Holiness and Tibetans in freedom since 1959 & wish His Holiness happiness," the US State Department's South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) bureau tweeted on Monday. Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi also conveyed her greetings to the Tibetan spiritual leader on his birthday. "The Dalai Lama is a messenger of hope, whose spiritual guidance has been a vital force to advance warm-heartedness and compassion, promote religious harmony, secure human rights and preserve the language and culture of the Tibetan people," she said. Sadly, the aspirations of His Holiness and the Tibetan people remain unfulfilled as the oppressive Chinese regime continues its disgraceful campaign of persecution, Ms Pelosi said. She noted that the US Congress on a bipartisan basis has long spoken with one voice in defence of those persecuted by Beijing and will continue to do so. In January, House Democrats defended the rights of Tibetans to practice their faith, speak their language and celebrate their culture free from Beijing's repressive grip by passing the Tibet Policy and Support Act, which makes clear the US position that interference by Beijing in the process of recognising a successor or reincarnation of the 14th Dalai Lama would represent a clear violation of the religious freedoms of the Tibetan people. "The Senate must pass this bipartisan legislation and support the bond of friendship that has existed between the United States, the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people for decades," Ms Pelosi said. In honour of this special day and of the dreams of the Tibetan people, America remains committed to opposing the acceleration of Beijing's aggression toward the people of Tibet, as well as its brutal campaign against the Uyghur people, its suppression of free speech and assault on the 'one country, two systems' doctrine in Hong Kong, and its violent efforts to undermine religious freedom and human rights throughout China, she said. "May this next year bring His Holiness The Dalai Lama, the people of Tibet and all those working to advance freedom in China and around the world a future of peace, security and prosperity for all," Ms Pelosi said. Congressman Andy Levin in a tweet wished the Dalai Lama a joyous birthday. "May we all follow the example set by His Holiness in the coming year and work towards a more peaceful world," he said.

US slams 'oppressive' China, thanks India for hosting Dalai Lama since 1959

The war of Mahabharata lasted for 18 days. Prime Minister Modi had exuded confidence (in March) that we will win this battle against COVID-19 in 21 days. But it has been over 100 days and the coronavirus still persists and those fighting it have become tired, the Shiv Sena claimed.&nbsp;

The Shiv Sena today said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed confidence that the battle against COVID-19 would be won in 21 days, but it has been over 100 days and the crisis still persists.

The fight against COVID-19 is more difficult than the war of Mahabharata, an editorial in Shiv Sena's mouthpiece 'Saamana' said, adding that the battle against the pandemic will continue till 2021 as the disease vaccine won't be available before that.

It expressed concern over India reporting the third highest COVID-19 cases in the world.

It is unfortunate and serious for the country, which is dreaming to become a financial superpower, to report over 25,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, the Shiv Sena said.

We left Russia behind in terms of the number of cases. We will attain the number one slot in this unfortunate area if the number of cases continue to go up," it said.

The war of Mahabharata lasted for 18 days. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had exuded confidence (in March) that we will win this battle against COVID-19 in 21 days. But it has been over 100 days and the coronavirus still persists and those fighting it have become tired, the Shiv Sena claimed.

Patients are recovering on a big scale in Maharashtra, but the situation in some areas of the state turns one restless, it said citing the example of Thane district, which has been a major COVID-19 hotspot.

The Shiv Sena said several politicians, public representatives, policemen, health workers and other administrators are getting infected by the disease, and this does not suit the country and states.

"The coronavirus will be there and (we) need to live with it...the vaccine for coronavirus will not be available before 2021...that means (we) will have to live with coronavirus at least till then, it said.

Without naming anyone or any party, the Shiv Sena said questions are being raised as to for how many days the lockdown will continue.

But when you open the door (ease restrictions), the "messengers (threat) of coronavirus" are right out there, the Marathi publication said.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has relaxed lockdown restrictions to some extent, but the threat is still not over, the Sena said.

It said the COVID-19 must be fought even though the industries, economy and lifestyle have been hit hard by the disease.

<o:p></o:p>

The war of Mahabharata lasted for 18 days. Prime Minister Modi had exuded confidence (in March) that we will win this battle against COVID-19 in 21 days. But it has been over 100 days and the coronavirus still persists and those fighting it have become tired, the Shiv Sena claimed.

The war of Mahabharata lasted for 18 days. Prime Minister Modi had exuded confidence (in March) that we will win this battle against COVID-19 in 21 days. But it has been over 100 days and the coronavirus still persists and those fighting it have become tired, the Shiv Sena claimed. The Shiv Sena today said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed confidence that the battle against COVID-19 would be won in 21 days, but it has been over 100 days and the crisis still persists. The fight against COVID-19 is more difficult than the war of Mahabharata, an editorial in Shiv Sena's mouthpiece 'Saamana' said, adding that the battle against the pandemic will continue till 2021 as the disease vaccine won't be available before that. It expressed concern over India reporting the third highest COVID-19 cases in the world. It is unfortunate and serious for the country, which is dreaming to become a financial superpower, to report over 25,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, the Shiv Sena said. We left Russia behind in terms of the number of cases. We will attain the number one slot in this unfortunate area if the number of cases continue to go up," it said. The war of Mahabharata lasted for 18 days. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had exuded confidence (in March) that we will win this battle against COVID-19 in 21 days. But it has been over 100 days and the coronavirus still persists and those fighting it have become tired, the Shiv Sena claimed. Patients are recovering on a big scale in Maharashtra, but the situation in some areas of the state turns one restless, it said citing the example of Thane district, which has been a major COVID-19 hotspot. The Shiv Sena said several politicians, public representatives, policemen, health workers and other administrators are getting infected by the disease, and this does not suit the country and states. "The coronavirus will be there and (we) need to live with it...the vaccine for coronavirus will not be available before 2021...that means (we) will have to live with coronavirus at least till then, it said. Without naming anyone or any party, the Shiv Sena said questions are being raised as to for how many days the lockdown will continue. But when you open the door (ease restrictions), the "messengers (threat) of coronavirus" are right out there, the Marathi publication said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has relaxed lockdown restrictions to some extent, but the threat is still not over, the Sena said. It said the COVID-19 must be fought even though the industries, economy and lifestyle have been hit hard by the disease.

Mahabharata lasted 18 days, Covid-19 is 100 and counting: Shiv Sena's dig at PM Modi

The Supreme Court Tuesday granted one more month to the Centre to implement its verdict directing that permanent commission be given to all serving SSC women officers in the Army.

The Supreme Court Tuesday granted one more month to the Centre to implement its verdict directing that permanent commission be given to all serving SSC women officers in the Army. A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra said the Centre will have to comply with all the directions in the verdict. The Centre told the bench that decision making on the issue is at a final stage and only formal orders remain to be issued. It said the court's verdict will be complied with in letter and spirit. The top court's direction came on the Centre's application seeking six months' time, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, to implement the verdict. In a landmark verdict on February 17, the top court had directed that women officers in the Army be granted permanent commission and command postings, rejecting the Centre's stand of their physiological limitations as being based on "sex stereotypes" and "gender discrimination against women". It had directed the Centre that within three months, all serving Short Service Commission (SSC) women officers have to be considered for Permanent Commission (PC) irrespective of them having crossed 14 years or, as the case may be, 20 years of service. It had said that the question of combat posting of women officers is a policy decision and was not dealt by the Delhi High Court in its 2010 verdict. The top court accepted the Centre's policy of February 25, 2019 to grant PC to SSC women officers in all the 10 streams in the Indian Army. Despite this policy, the Centre's stand in a matter before the top court was that provisions of Army Act contemplate that women will be eligible for enrolment only in those segments which the government permits. The top court had said that women officers have got numerous commendation certificates and laurels and their track record of service to the nation is beyond reproach. It had rejected the Centre's submission that women officers cannot be granted PC due to physiological limitations, all-male environment in a unit, combat capability and said that mindset change is required to recognize the values of the Constitution. "To cast aspersion on their abilities on the ground of gender is an affront not only to their dignity as women but to the dignity of the members of the Indian Army men and women who serve as equal citizens in a common mission," the top court had said. "The submissions advanced in the note tendered to this Court are based on sex stereotypes premised on assumptions about socially ascribed roles of gender which discriminate against women," it had said. It had said reliance on inherent physiological differences between men and women rests in a deeply entrenched stereotypical and constitutionally flawed notion that women are the "weaker sex" and may not undertake tasks that are "too arduous" for them. Rejecting the Centre's arguments, the top court had said it is founded on the physical strengths and weaknesses of men and women and on assumptions about women in the social context of marriage and family which do not constitute a constitutionally valid basis for denying equal opportunity to women officers. "To deny the grant of PC to women officers on the ground that this would upset the peculiar dynamics in a unit casts an undue burden on women officers which has been claimed as a ground for excluding women," it had said. It had held that the option of grant of PC shall be given to all women SSC officers and if those with more than 14 years of service do not opt for grant of PC then they will be entitled to continue in service until they attain 20 years of pensionable service. The top court had also cleared the hurdle for command postings for women by staying the enforcement of the expression "in various staff appointments only" and "on staff appointments only" in para-5 and Para-6 of notification dated February 25, 2019. They deal with grant of PC to SSC women officers in various staff appointments only and within their parent department. The top court had said SSC women officers with over 20 years of service who are not granted PC shall retire on pension in terms of policy decision. It had said that pension and other benefits would be made available to those officers in service or those who had moved the high court by filing the Writ Petitions. It had said that following the Delhi High Court 2010 judgment, the Centre was under a mandate to grant PC to women officers, to the exclusion of the Combat Arms, and at par with the grant of PC to their male counterparts. On the Centre's policy decision of February 25, 2019, the top court had said it is a recognition of right of women officers to equality of opportunity. The top court had noted that Indian Army has sanctioned 50,266 posts for officers, while the posts currently occupied are 40,825 including 1,653 by women officers. It had noted that there is shortage of 9,441 officers in the Indian Army. There are total of 1,653 women officers which is a miniscule 4 per cent of the total strength of commissioned officers in the Army, it had said. The total of 1,653 officers includes -- 77 having above 20 years of service, 255 having service tenure between 14 and 20 years and the fate of 322 women officers was to be decided by the verdict of the apex court.

SC grants a month more to Centre for giving permanent commission to women officers in Army

Amid rapid surge in coronavirus cases, monuments re-open in Delhi

India has been a "very responsible" player in international fora, and as it sits on the UN Security Council, it can galvanise action in various areas and also bring focus on the Sustainable Development Goals, a top UN official has said.

India overwhelmingly won its election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member last month for a two-year term that will begin in January 2021. It garnered 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the UN General Assembly.

Previously, India had been elected as a non-permanent member of the powerful Security Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992, and most recently in 2011-2012.

"India is a very important country in the world in terms of technology, in terms of people, in terms of ideas and it also has been a very strong member of many other international organisations and can bring sensitivities of those organisations to bear in discussions (at the UN and as a Security Council member)," UN General Assembly President Tijjani Muhammad-Bande told PTI.

Responding to a question on expectations from India as it prepares to sit in the Security Council next year, he said India has given a great deal of support to other countries not only in its own region, but also elsewhere.

"So, we expect that it will bring some focus to Development Goals (SDG) issues as it will bring some focus to discussions around respect for other countries.

"I think its own relationship within the Commonwealth and other fora (like the) Non-Aligned Movement, the G77, you name it. It has been a very responsible player in those fora, so we expect that it will galvanise action in those areas of importance to those organisations as well," Muhammad-Bande said last week.

On a question about what role India can play, together with the UN, to promote access to affordable medicines and vaccines, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, India can be helpful because it has a "very strong" relationship with its neighbours.

"It operates within the Commonwealth, it operates within its region. It also operates at the UN and they are a platform to give further support to the efforts of the global community," he said.

The UN official also said there was a resolution of the General Assembly agreed to by all Member States to give support to the idea of the availability of vaccines.

"Countries that are able to produce quickly the needed vaccines when developed of course have a responsibility and those who are able to provide some funding to guarantee that this happens.

"And then we'll have a mechanism to allow those who really need access. Even before the crisis, many countries were struggling and the situation has become extremely more difficult for many countries," he said.

India has been a "very responsible" player in international fora, and as it sits on the UN Security Council, it can galvanise action in various areas and also bring focus on the Sustainable Development Goals, a top UN official has said.

India has been a "very responsible" player in international fora, and as it sits on the UN Security Council, it can galvanise action in various areas and also bring focus on the Sustainable Development Goals, a top UN official has said. India overwhelmingly won its election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member last month for a two-year term that will begin in January 2021. It garnered 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the UN General Assembly. Previously, India had been elected as a non-permanent member of the powerful Security Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992, and most recently in 2011-2012. "India is a very important country in the world in terms of technology, in terms of people, in terms of ideas and it also has been a very strong member of many other international organisations and can bring sensitivities of those organisations to bear in discussions (at the UN and as a Security Council member)," UN General Assembly President Tijjani Muhammad-Bande told PTI. Responding to a question on expectations from India as it prepares to sit in the Security Council next year, he said India has given a great deal of support to other countries not only in its own region, but also elsewhere. "So, we expect that it will bring some focus to Development Goals (SDG) issues as it will bring some focus to discussions around respect for other countries. "I think its own relationship within the Commonwealth and other fora (like the) Non-Aligned Movement, the G77, you name it. It has been a very responsible player in those fora, so we expect that it will galvanise action in those areas of importance to those organisations as well," Muhammad-Bande said last week. On a question about what role India can play, together with the UN, to promote access to affordable medicines and vaccines, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, India can be helpful because it has a "very strong" relationship with its neighbours. "It operates within the Commonwealth, it operates within its region. It also operates at the UN and they are a platform to give further support to the efforts of the global community," he said. The UN official also said there was a resolution of the General Assembly agreed to by all Member States to give support to the idea of the availability of vaccines. "Countries that are able to produce quickly the needed vaccines when developed of course have a responsibility and those who are able to provide some funding to guarantee that this happens. "And then we'll have a mechanism to allow those who really need access. Even before the crisis, many countries were struggling and the situation has become extremely more difficult for many countries," he said.

India 'very responsible' player in global fora, can galvanise action as UNSC member: UN official

Amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, Chinese army has&nbsp;started pulling out troops from certain areas in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh, sources said.

Chinese Army has moved back tents, vehicles, and troops by 1-2 km from locations where disengagement was agreed upon during the commander-level talks, Indian Army sources told WION.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pm-narendra-modis-ladakh-visit-gives-a-clear-message-to-beijing-310522">India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing</a>

The disengagement has begun according to an agreement between the Corps Commander's of the two sides, sources told news agency PTI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-to-place-emergency-orders-for-extreme-cold-weather-tents-for-soldiers-on-lac-310996">Indian Army to place emergency orders for extreme cold weather tents for soldiers on LAC</a>

However, they said&nbsp;Chinese heavy-armoured vehicles are still present in the Galwan river depth area.

Indian Army is monitoring the situation with caution, sources further added.&nbsp;

China's People Liberation Army (PLA) was also seen removing tents and structures at Patrolling Point&nbsp;14 and moving out vehicles from the area.&nbsp;

A similar movement of vehicles was seen at Gogra Hot Spring area too, the sources said.

The tensions between both the Asian giants escalated following a violent face-off on June 15, when 20 personnel of the Indian Army were martyred in the Galwan Valley. The Chinese side also suffered casualties, but it didn't provide the details of it.&nbsp;

In the last few weeks, a series of diplomatic and military-level talks are being taking place between both sides to de-escalate the situation at the border.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, Chinese army has started pulling out troops from certain areas in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh, sources said.

Amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh, Chinese army has started pulling out troops from certain areas in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh, sources said. Chinese Army has moved back tents, vehicles, and troops by 1-2 km from locations where disengagement was agreed upon during the commander-level talks, Indian Army sources told WION. Also read | India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing The disengagement has begun according to an agreement between the Corps Commander's of the two sides, sources told news agency PTI. Also read | Indian Army to place emergency orders for extreme cold weather tents for soldiers on LAC However, they said Chinese heavy-armoured vehicles are still present in the Galwan river depth area. Indian Army is monitoring the situation with caution, sources further added. China's People Liberation Army (PLA) was also seen removing tents and structures at Patrolling Point 14 and moving out vehicles from the area. A similar movement of vehicles was seen at Gogra Hot Spring area too, the sources said. The tensions between both the Asian giants escalated following a violent face-off on June 15, when 20 personnel of the Indian Army were martyred in the Galwan Valley. The Chinese side also suffered casualties, but it didn't provide the details of it. In the last few weeks, a series of diplomatic and military-level talks are being taking place between both sides to de-escalate the situation at the border.

Chinese troops remove tents, move back from Galwan Valley: Sources

As many as 99 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan since Sunday night. Three patients have also lost their lives due to the deadly pandemic.

With this, the total number of cases in the state has gone up to 20,263. Of them, 15,968 have already recovered and 3,836 cases still remain active. So far, the virus has led to the deaths of 459, the state health department said on Monday.

At present, Rajasthan is among the top 10 states in the country affected by the virus. It is closely behind West Bengal, which has 22,126 total cases, 14,711 recovered and 757 deaths. Maharashtra is the worst affected state in the country with 206,619 confirmed cases, 111,740 recovered and 8,822 deaths.

Across the country, there are 697,413 confirmed cases, 424,433 recovered, while 19,693 people have lost their lives due to the coronavirus.&nbsp;

As many as 99 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan since Sunday night. Three patients have also lost their lives due to the deadly pandemic. With this, the total number of cases in the state has gone up to 20,263.

As many as 99 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan since Sunday night. Three patients have also lost their lives due to the deadly pandemic. With this, the total number of cases in the state has gone up to 20,263. Of them, 15,968 have already recovered and 3,836 cases still remain active. So far, the virus has led to the deaths of 459, the state health department said on Monday. At present, Rajasthan is among the top 10 states in the country affected by the virus. It is closely behind West Bengal, which has 22,126 total cases, 14,711 recovered and 757 deaths. Maharashtra is the worst affected state in the country with 206,619 confirmed cases, 111,740 recovered and 8,822 deaths. Across the country, there are 697,413 confirmed cases, 424,433 recovered, while 19,693 people have lost their lives due to the coronavirus.

99 new COVID-19 cases reported in Rajasthan; tally now stands at 20,263

The Shiv Sena on Monday said the Kanpur encounter in which eight policemen were killed has exposed the encounter specialist Uttar Pradesh government and raised questions over claims of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath about ending goondaism in the state.

Noting Uttar Pradesh is often called as "Uttam Pradesh", an editorial in Shiv Sena mouthpiece "Saamana" said the "Uttam Pradesh" now stands soaked in the blood of policemen, which is a shock for the country.

Eight police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police, were gunned down last week at a village near Kanpur by the henchmen of gangster Vikas Dubey.

An accomplice of prime accused Dubey has been arrested, while the gangster is still at large.

The Shiv Sena said there are reports of Dubey fleeing to Nepal after the incident.

India is not enjoying good relations with Nepal at present, the Marathi publication said, hoping Dubey does not turn out to be Dawood in Nepal for India.

It was apparently referring to reports of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim residing in Pakistan after fleeing India.

"The Kanpur police killings has exposed the encounter specialist government in Uttar Pradesh," the Shiv Sena said.

The Kanpur episode revives the memories of killings of policemen by a gang in Uttar Pradeshs Nathuapur four decades ago, it said, wondering what has changed in Adityanaths regime if security personnel are getting killed even after 40 years (of that incident).

"Uttar Pradesh has faced ignominy for decades due to the gangs of goons there and their crimes. Claims have been made several times that goondaism has ended during the regime of present Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. But the Kanpur police killings have raised a big question mark on these claims, the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said.

During the three-year tenure of the Adityanath government in the state, more than 113 goons have been encountered, it said, asking how come Dubey's name was left out of it.

The Sena said there are more than 60 offences against the gangster, including that of murder and robbery, and wondered how come he got saved for want of evidence.

What explanation the Yogi government has if someone alleges that the list of goons to be encountered is prepared as per the convenience of the Uttar Pradesh police and government? the Marathi daily asked.

After the Kanpur encounter, the Uttar Pradesh administration razed Dubey's residence, contending it was illegal.

Referring to it, the Sena asked, But what about the homes of the martyred policemen? Will the parents (of cops killed in the raid) get their sons back and children their fathers back? It was unfortunate that the Uttar Pradesh administration got the "secret knowledge" of Dubeys residence being illegal only after the killings of the eight policemen, it said.

The Shiv Sena, without specifying details, said goondaism in Uttar Pradesh has its effects on the national capital Delhi and the financial capital Mumbai and hence, the Kanpur killings is a serious matter.

The Shiv Sena on Monday said the Kanpur encounter in which eight policemen were killed has exposed the encounter specialist Uttar Pradesh government and raised questions over claims of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath about ending goondaism in the state.

The Shiv Sena on Monday said the Kanpur encounter in which eight policemen were killed has exposed the encounter specialist Uttar Pradesh government and raised questions over claims of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath about ending goondaism in the state. Noting Uttar Pradesh is often called as "Uttam Pradesh", an editorial in Shiv Sena mouthpiece "Saamana" said the "Uttam Pradesh" now stands soaked in the blood of policemen, which is a shock for the country. Eight police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police, were gunned down last week at a village near Kanpur by the henchmen of gangster Vikas Dubey. An accomplice of prime accused Dubey has been arrested, while the gangster is still at large. The Shiv Sena said there are reports of Dubey fleeing to Nepal after the incident. India is not enjoying good relations with Nepal at present, the Marathi publication said, hoping Dubey does not turn out to be Dawood in Nepal for India. It was apparently referring to reports of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim residing in Pakistan after fleeing India. "The Kanpur police killings has exposed the encounter specialist government in Uttar Pradesh," the Shiv Sena said. The Kanpur episode revives the memories of killings of policemen by a gang in Uttar Pradeshs Nathuapur four decades ago, it said, wondering what has changed in Adityanaths regime if security personnel are getting killed even after 40 years (of that incident). "Uttar Pradesh has faced ignominy for decades due to the gangs of goons there and their crimes. Claims have been made several times that goondaism has ended during the regime of present Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. But the Kanpur police killings have raised a big question mark on these claims, the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said. During the three-year tenure of the Adityanath government in the state, more than 113 goons have been encountered, it said, asking how come Dubey's name was left out of it. The Sena said there are more than 60 offences against the gangster, including that of murder and robbery, and wondered how come he got saved for want of evidence. What explanation the Yogi government has if someone alleges that the list of goons to be encountered is prepared as per the convenience of the Uttar Pradesh police and government? the Marathi daily asked. After the Kanpur encounter, the Uttar Pradesh administration razed Dubey's residence, contending it was illegal. Referring to it, the Sena asked, But what about the homes of the martyred policemen? Will the parents (of cops killed in the raid) get their sons back and children their fathers back? It was unfortunate that the Uttar Pradesh administration got the "secret knowledge" of Dubeys residence being illegal only after the killings of the eight policemen, it said. The Shiv Sena, without specifying details, said goondaism in Uttar Pradesh has its effects on the national capital Delhi and the financial capital Mumbai and hence, the Kanpur killings is a serious matter.

Kanpur encounter exposes 'encounter specialist' government in UP: Shiv Sena

The US military "will continue to stand strong"&nbsp;in relation to a conflict between India and China or anywhere else, a top White House official said on Monday, after the US Navy deployed two aircraft carriers to the South China Sea to boost its presence in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-disengagement-begins-at-three-flashpoints-311179">Also Read:&nbsp;India-China standoff: Disengagement begins at three flashpoints</a>

"The message is clear. We're not going to stand by and let China or anyone else take the reins in terms of being the most powerful, dominant force, whether it's in that region or over here,"&nbsp;White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows told Fox News.

"And the message is clear. Our military might stands strong and will continue to stand strong, whether it's in relationship to a conflict between India and China or anywhere else,"&nbsp;Meadows said in response to a question.

The troops of India and China were&nbsp;locked in an eight-week standoff in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring.

The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes that left 20 Indian Army personnel dead as the two sides significantly bolstered their deployments in most areas along the LAC.

The Chinese military on Monday began withdrawing troops from the Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held lengthy talks on Sunday. Doval and Wang are also the special representatives on the India-China boundary talks.

The United States has sent two of its aircraft carriers to the South China Sea. "Our mission is to make sure that the world knows that we still have the preeminent fighting force on the face of the globe," Meadows said.

President Donald Trump has invested more in the US military, more in not only the hardware but the men and women who serve so sacrificially each and every day, he said. "He (Trump) continues to do so,"&nbsp;he added.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are vital to global trade.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the area.

Appearing on the same Fox News on Monday talk show with host Brian Kilmeade, influential Republican Senator Tom Cotton said that the US aircraft carriers are headed to the South China Sea to thwart off any Chinese misadventure against Taiwan or other countries in the region. 
 
"That's one of the reasons why we have those aircraft carrier groups in the South China Sea. I mean, look what China did in the southwest. It's essentially invaded India over the last few weeks and killed Indian soldiers,"&nbsp;Cotton said.

"No country on China's periphery, right now, is safe from Chinese aggression. All those countries want a close relationship with the United States. We ought to have one," Cotton added.

The US military "will continue to stand strong" in relation to a conflict between India and China or anywhere else, a top White House official said on Monday, after the US Navy deployed two aircraft carriers to the South China Sea to boost its presence in the region.

The US military "will continue to stand strong" in relation to a conflict between India and China or anywhere else, a top White House official said on Monday, after the US Navy deployed two aircraft carriers to the South China Sea to boost its presence in the region. Also Read: India-China standoff: Disengagement begins at three flashpoints "The message is clear. We're not going to stand by and let China or anyone else take the reins in terms of being the most powerful, dominant force, whether it's in that region or over here," White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows told Fox News. "And the message is clear. Our military might stands strong and will continue to stand strong, whether it's in relationship to a conflict between India and China or anywhere else," Meadows said in response to a question. The troops of India and China were locked in an eight-week standoff in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring. The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes that left 20 Indian Army personnel dead as the two sides significantly bolstered their deployments in most areas along the LAC. The Chinese military on Monday began withdrawing troops from the Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held lengthy talks on Sunday. Doval and Wang are also the special representatives on the India-China boundary talks. The United States has sent two of its aircraft carriers to the South China Sea. "Our mission is to make sure that the world knows that we still have the preeminent fighting force on the face of the globe," Meadows said. President Donald Trump has invested more in the US military, more in not only the hardware but the men and women who serve so sacrificially each and every day, he said. "He (Trump) continues to do so," he added. China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are vital to global trade. China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the area. Appearing on the same Fox News on Monday talk show with host Brian Kilmeade, influential Republican Senator Tom Cotton said that the US aircraft carriers are headed to the South China Sea to thwart off any Chinese misadventure against Taiwan or other countries in the region. "That's one of the reasons why we have those aircraft carrier groups in the South China Sea. I mean, look what China did in the southwest. It's essentially invaded India over the last few weeks and killed Indian soldiers," Cotton said. "No country on China's periphery, right now, is safe from Chinese aggression. All those countries want a close relationship with the United States. We ought to have one," Cotton added.

US military to stand with India in conflict with China, says White House official

The road construction being carried out by the Nepali authorities on no man's land at the India-Nepal border has been stopped, Pilibhit District Magistrate Vaibhav Srivastava said.

"We felt that there was some construction being going on at the no man's land but the Nepali authorities have assured us that the construction would come to a stop," Srivastava said while speaking to ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-anti-oli-sentiment-deepens-as-youth-mobilise-protests-311183">Also read:&nbsp;Nepal's anti-Oli sentiment deepens as youth mobilise protests</a>

The district administration received information on Sunday that a road is being constructed from Nepal side at no man's land near Pillar No 38 in Pilibhit`s Hazara area on India-Nepal border.On receiving the information, DM Srivastava, Superintendent of Police (SP) Jayaprakash, DIG HNS Bisht reached the India-Nepal border with SSB personnel.

Srivastava added, "Border pillars have been identified by survey teams of both the countries. They will be built as soon as possible with the help of the survey team."

The road construction being carried out by the Nepali authorities on no man's land at the India-Nepal border has been stopped, Pilibhit District Magistrate Vaibhav Srivastava said.

The road construction being carried out by the Nepali authorities on no man's land at the India-Nepal border has been stopped, Pilibhit District Magistrate Vaibhav Srivastava said. "We felt that there was some construction being going on at the no man's land but the Nepali authorities have assured us that the construction would come to a stop," Srivastava said while speaking to ANI. Also read: Nepal's anti-Oli sentiment deepens as youth mobilise protests The district administration received information on Sunday that a road is being constructed from Nepal side at no man's land near Pillar No 38 in Pilibhit`s Hazara area on India-Nepal border.On receiving the information, DM Srivastava, Superintendent of Police (SP) Jayaprakash, DIG HNS Bisht reached the India-Nepal border with SSB personnel. Srivastava added, "Border pillars have been identified by survey teams of both the countries. They will be built as soon as possible with the help of the survey team."

Road construction on no man's land at India-Nepal border halted

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill.

The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youll-be-punished-if-you-dont-wear-a-mask-in-kuwait-and-qatar-299295">You'll be punished if you don't wear a mask in Kuwait and Qatar</a>

The draft of the bill said Indians, country's largest foreign community, must not exceed 15 per cent of Kuwait's population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-bharat-operation-177-indians-brought-back-from-kuwait">Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait</a>

The bill that will now be sent to an expert committee to study the legislation, if approved will impact 800,000 Indians who currently reside in the Gulf country.&nbsp;

&nbsp;At least 1.45 million Indians currently reside in Kuwait.&nbsp;

It has also called for bringing down the number of Egyptians residing in the country to 10 per cent, Times of India reported.

After India, Egypt is the second-largest expat community in Kuwait.&nbsp;

Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, last month, said the nation would reduce expat numbers to 30 per cent of the country's population, which is presently 70 per cent, impacting 2.5 million people.

Already, Kuwaiti MPs have asked the government to replace all expat jobs in the government sector&nbsp;within one year.&nbsp;

In June, Kuwait announced the ban on expatriates working in state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and its subsidiaries for the year 2020-21.

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill. The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business.

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill. The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business. Also read | You'll be punished if you don't wear a mask in Kuwait and Qatar The draft of the bill said Indians, country's largest foreign community, must not exceed 15 per cent of Kuwait's population. Also read | Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait The bill that will now be sent to an expert committee to study the legislation, if approved will impact 800,000 Indians who currently reside in the Gulf country. At least 1.45 million Indians currently reside in Kuwait. It has also called for bringing down the number of Egyptians residing in the country to 10 per cent, Times of India reported. After India, Egypt is the second-largest expat community in Kuwait. Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, last month, said the nation would reduce expat numbers to 30 per cent of the country's population, which is presently 70 per cent, impacting 2.5 million people. Already, Kuwaiti MPs have asked the government to replace all expat jobs in the government sector within one year. In June, Kuwait announced the ban on expatriates working in state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and its subsidiaries for the year 2020-21.

Kuwait nods draft bill that will push 800,000 Indians out of the country

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-face-off-chinese-troops-pull-back-2-kms-from-galwan-clash-area-sources-310992">Also read|&nbsp;Chinese troops remove tents, move back from Galwan Valley: Sources</a>

The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries` contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals.

"Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash. 
India`s industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment.

The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pm-narendra-modis-ladakh-visit-gives-a-clear-message-to-beijing-310522">Also read|&nbsp;India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing</a>

The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review.

One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals.

Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy &amp; Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India.

"Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said.

Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance`s TikTok and Tencent`s &lt;0700.HK&gt; WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses` expansion plans for the South Asian market.

Chinese companies` existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory. Also read| Chinese troops remove tents, move back from Galwan Valley: Sources The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries` contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals. "Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash. India`s industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment. The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns. Also read| India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review. One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals. Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy & Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India. "Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said. Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance`s TikTok and Tencent`s <0700.HK> WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses` expansion plans for the South Asian market. Chinese companies` existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

India reviewing around 50 investment proposals from Chinese firms - sources

Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India, wished Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. ''On behalf of US Government and the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday,''Juster said.

Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India, wished Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. ''On behalf of US Government and the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday,''Juster said. ''It is our privilege to work with His Holiness to advance the values that Americans and Tibetans share,'' he added. Dalai Lama released of an album of mantras and teachings on his 85th birthday on Monday. On behalf of US Government & the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. It is our privilege to work with His Holiness to advance the values that Americans & Tibetans share: Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India pic.twitter.com/asNhAN7Olh — ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2020 × The record came about when musician Junelle Kunin, a student of the Dalai Lama from New Zealand, contacted him in 2015 with the idea - and much to her surprise he said yes. The release comes five years after Patti Smith led the crowd at Britain's Glastonbury Festival singing Happy Birthday to him for his 80th.

US Ambassador to India Ken Juster wishes Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday

Two jawans of the SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) have been killed in an incident of fratricide at a court complex in south Kashmir's Kulgam district.&nbsp;

Sources have told WION that a scuffle happened between a constable and assistant sub-inspector at the main gate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-personnel-injured-in-ied-blast-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-pulwama-310782">Also read:&nbsp;CRPF personnel injured in IED blast in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a>

The constable according to sources fired at his colleague and shot him dead. After firing at him, he also shot at himself with the rifle.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident. The duo belong to 49 battalion SSB. &nbsp;

Two jawans of the SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) have been killed in an incident of fratricide at a court complex in south Kashmir's Kulgam district. Sources have told WION that a scuffle happened between a constable and assistant sub-inspector at the main gate.

Two jawans of the SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) have been killed in an incident of fratricide at a court complex in south Kashmir's Kulgam district. Sources have told WION that a scuffle happened between a constable and assistant sub-inspector at the main gate. Also read: CRPF personnel injured in IED blast in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama The constable according to sources fired at his colleague and shot him dead. After firing at him, he also shot at himself with the rifle. Police have launched an investigation into the incident. The duo belong to 49 battalion SSB.

Two SSB men killed in fratricide incident in Kashmir

The&nbsp;The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked&nbsp;the&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

The commission has asked the officials to prepare a detailed on the fire within four weeks as the factory was apparently illegal.&nbsp;

"It is necessary for the local administration to fix the responsibility of the concerned officer and start departmental/ criminal proceedings against them, immediately to ensure justice to the victims and their families," NHRC said in its notice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/candle-factory-caught-on-fire-in-ghaziabad-seven-dead-four-injured-310936">Also read|&nbsp;Candle factory caught on fire in Ghaziabad; seven dead, four injured</a>

Calling it a case of human rights violation, the commission has asked the officials to provide details on the action taken against the owner of the illegal factory, the cause of the fire and the financial aid provided to the victims.

The commission said that as per the news report, once a police team had conducted a raid at the alleged illegal factory but no action was taken by them. The factory had been operating for the past one and a half years.

Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey on Sunday had said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered in candle factory fire incident in Ghaziabad and an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased.

Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to the injured, he had added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

The The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The commission has asked the officials to prepare a detailed on the fire within four weeks as the factory was apparently illegal. "It is necessary for the local administration to fix the responsibility of the concerned officer and start departmental/ criminal proceedings against them, immediately to ensure justice to the victims and their families," NHRC said in its notice. Also read| Candle factory caught on fire in Ghaziabad; seven dead, four injured Calling it a case of human rights violation, the commission has asked the officials to provide details on the action taken against the owner of the illegal factory, the cause of the fire and the financial aid provided to the victims. The commission said that as per the news report, once a police team had conducted a raid at the alleged illegal factory but no action was taken by them. The factory had been operating for the past one and a half years. Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey on Sunday had said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered in candle factory fire incident in Ghaziabad and an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to the injured, he had added. (With inputs from agencies)

This is human rights violation: NHRC orders investigation in Ghaziabad factory fire

India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday.

Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 19,693 deaths

As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research. Till 5 July, India has tested 99, 69,662 samples.

India went past Russia on Sunday to become the third worst-hit nation by the COVID-19 pandemic. Only the US and Brazil are ahead of India in terms of total coronavirus infections.

Russia has 6, 81,251 infections while Brazil has 15, 78,376 and the US has 29, 54,999 cases, according to Worldometer which compiles the COVID-19 data from around the globe.

Meanwhile, more than 6 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 11 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday. Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated & 19,693 deaths As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research.

India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday. Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated & 19,693 deaths As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research. Till 5 July, India has tested 99, 69,662 samples. India went past Russia on Sunday to become the third worst-hit nation by the COVID-19 pandemic. Only the US and Brazil are ahead of India in terms of total coronavirus infections. Russia has 6, 81,251 infections while Brazil has 15, 78,376 and the US has 29, 54,999 cases, according to Worldometer which compiles the COVID-19 data from around the globe. Meanwhile, more than 6 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 11 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: 24,248 new cases, 425 deaths in last 24 hours as India becomes the third worst-hit nation

As many as 108 personnel from three Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) of the BSF, the ITBP and the CRPF tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, officials said.

The Border Security Force, the about 2.5-lakh personnel strong force, reported 36 fresh cases and 33 recoveries over the last 24 hours, officials said quoting the latest data.

The force has 1,348 coronavirus cases in total, out of which 526 personnel are under treatment while 816 have recovered.

There have been five deaths from the disease in the force, tasked to guard Indian fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh, including the death of a personnel who was killed in a road accident and his COVID-19 positive report came later.

The Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), tasked to guard the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, reported 18 new infections while one personnel recovered in the last 24 hours, the officials said.

It has a total of 421 COVID-19 cases, out of which 151 personnel are under treatment while 270 have recovered from the disease.

The 90,000 personnel strength mountain-warfare trained force has had three deaths from the pandemic.

A total of 54 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel also tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday, while nine personnel were discharged after recovery, the officials said.

Out of the total 1,564 cases in the country's largest paramilitary force, 808 personnel are under treatment while 747 have recovered.

The about 3.25-lakh personnel strength force has reported nine deaths from the pandemic.

The maximum number of fresh COVID-19 cases in the three forces are of that personnel who are joining their units back and are put under mandatory quarantine of 14 days before they resume active duty, a senior official said.

A total of 22 CRPF personnel tested coronavirus positive on Sunday in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district, around 170 kms from here, an official said.

These men had rejoined duty a few days ago and were placed under institutional quarantine, where they were detected with the infection, he said.

Around 350-400 CRPF troopers were on leave and began returning to their reporting stations in the last 20-25 days, Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police Shailesh Balkawde told PTI.

"Personnel who return are kept in 14-day institutional quarantine and tested for coronavirus after seven to eight days from the date of their return. A total of 22 CRPF personnel tested positive on Sunday," he said.

As many as 108 personnel from three Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) of the BSF, the ITBP and the CRPF tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, officials said.

As many as 108 personnel from three Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) of the BSF, the ITBP and the CRPF tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, officials said. The Border Security Force, the about 2.5-lakh personnel strong force, reported 36 fresh cases and 33 recoveries over the last 24 hours, officials said quoting the latest data. The force has 1,348 coronavirus cases in total, out of which 526 personnel are under treatment while 816 have recovered. There have been five deaths from the disease in the force, tasked to guard Indian fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh, including the death of a personnel who was killed in a road accident and his COVID-19 positive report came later. The Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), tasked to guard the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, reported 18 new infections while one personnel recovered in the last 24 hours, the officials said. It has a total of 421 COVID-19 cases, out of which 151 personnel are under treatment while 270 have recovered from the disease. The 90,000 personnel strength mountain-warfare trained force has had three deaths from the pandemic. A total of 54 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel also tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday, while nine personnel were discharged after recovery, the officials said. Out of the total 1,564 cases in the country's largest paramilitary force, 808 personnel are under treatment while 747 have recovered. The about 3.25-lakh personnel strength force has reported nine deaths from the pandemic. The maximum number of fresh COVID-19 cases in the three forces are of that personnel who are joining their units back and are put under mandatory quarantine of 14 days before they resume active duty, a senior official said. A total of 22 CRPF personnel tested coronavirus positive on Sunday in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district, around 170 kms from here, an official said. These men had rejoined duty a few days ago and were placed under institutional quarantine, where they were detected with the infection, he said. Around 350-400 CRPF troopers were on leave and began returning to their reporting stations in the last 20-25 days, Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police Shailesh Balkawde told PTI. "Personnel who return are kept in 14-day institutional quarantine and tested for coronavirus after seven to eight days from the date of their return. A total of 22 CRPF personnel tested positive on Sunday," he said.

COVID-19: 108 fresh cases in CAPFs, 22 CRPF personnel test positive in Gadchiroli

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news