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A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/life-after-article-370-challenges-ahead-241189">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/life-after-article-370-challenges-ahead-241189">WION Edit: Life after Article 370 - challenges ahead</a>

Article 370 was a constitutional provision that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and a&nbsp;batch of petitions had challenged the constitutional validity it.

The Central government had said that abrogation of provisions of Article 370 has become a "fait accompli", leaving the sole option to accept the change.&nbsp;

NGO People's Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL), Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association and an intervenor have sought to refer the matter to a larger bench.

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Last year, the Supreme Court had said that it would refer the issue to a larger 7-judge Constitution bench only if satisfied that there was a direct conflict in two earlier verdicts — Prem Nath Kaul vs J&amp;K in 1959 and Sampat Prakash vs J&amp;K in 1970 — of the top court which has heard the matter twice.&nbsp;

The Apex court had said that it would refer the matter to a larger bench only after petitioners can point out a direct conflict between the two earlier judgments.

Several petitions had been filed in the matter including those of private individuals, lawyers, activists and political parties and they have also challenged the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which splits J&amp;K into two union territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench.

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court has said that there are no reasons to refer batch of pleas challenging the validity of abrogation of provisions of Article 370 to the larger 7-judge bench. Also read: WION Edit: Life after Article 370 - challenges ahead Article 370 was a constitutional provision that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and a batch of petitions had challenged the constitutional validity it. The Central government had said that abrogation of provisions of Article 370 has become a "fait accompli", leaving the sole option to accept the change. NGO People's Union of Civil Liberties (PUCL), Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association and an intervenor have sought to refer the matter to a larger bench. × Last year, the Supreme Court had said that it would refer the issue to a larger 7-judge Constitution bench only if satisfied that there was a direct conflict in two earlier verdicts — Prem Nath Kaul vs J&K in 1959 and Sampat Prakash vs J&K in 1970 — of the top court which has heard the matter twice. The Apex court had said that it would refer the matter to a larger bench only after petitioners can point out a direct conflict between the two earlier judgments. Several petitions had been filed in the matter including those of private individuals, lawyers, activists and political parties and they have also challenged the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which splits J&K into two union territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court declines to refer the petitions challenging government move on Article 370 to a larger bench

Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran.&nbsp;

There are also reports that 500 Indian fishermen are being held in the port city of Bander Abbas. India will now have to dispatch an aircraft to Tehran and bring back its nationals.

Iran has promised to screen and examine Indian nationals at the Tehran airport before their evacuation. But in return, Iran wants India to provide the same service to Iranian nationals who are planning to return home from India.&nbsp;

This evacuation proposal comes at a time when Iran is being widely accused of downplaying the outbreak.

Just yesterday, BBC's Persian wing reported that the actual death toll in Iran could be as high as 210. This is almost six times higher than what Iran's govt is reporting.

 
Overnight, the country reported 9 more fatalities and a 50 per cent jump in infections. Overall, there have been 43 deaths and 593 confirmed cases in the country.

Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran.

Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran. There are also reports that 500 Indian fishermen are being held in the port city of Bander Abbas. India will now have to dispatch an aircraft to Tehran and bring back its nationals. Iran has promised to screen and examine Indian nationals at the Tehran airport before their evacuation. But in return, Iran wants India to provide the same service to Iranian nationals who are planning to return home from India. This evacuation proposal comes at a time when Iran is being widely accused of downplaying the outbreak. Just yesterday, BBC's Persian wing reported that the actual death toll in Iran could be as high as 210. This is almost six times higher than what Iran's govt is reporting. Overnight, the country reported 9 more fatalities and a 50 per cent jump in infections. Overall, there have been 43 deaths and 593 confirmed cases in the country.

India can evacuate its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country: Iran 

Bangladesh's foreign ministry on Sunday said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to make a one-day visit to Dhaka on March 17, coinciding with the beginning of the 'Mujib Year' to mark the birth centenary of the country's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The main focus of Prime Minister Modi's visit would be on Mujib Year's inauguration with grand celebration, but he is also scheduled to have bilateral talks with his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina, the Bangabandhu's daughter, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen told a media briefing here.

"The date of his (Modi) arrival in Dhaka is yet to be finalised, but he is likely to be here on March 17," he said.

The Bangladesh government will observe 'Mujib Borsho (year)' from March 2020 to March 2021 across the globe.

Meanwhile, officials of the Indian High Commission here and the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry said India's External Affairs Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla would arrive in Dhaka on Monday to finalise the programmes of Modi's upcoming visit.

During his visit, Shringla, who previously served as India's high commissioner in Dhaka, would meet Prime Minister Hasina and Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, they said.

Shringla would also visit his Bangladeshi counterpart, they said, adding that he would deliver a keynote speech at a seminar jointly organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and the Indian High Commission in Dhaka.

Gowher Rizvi, International Affairs adviser to the prime minister of Bangladesh, would also address the seminar titled 'Bangladesh and India: A Promising Future' as the chief guest, the officials said.

According to the officials, Dhaka will also invite former Indian president Pranab Mukherjee and Nepalese President Bidhya Devi Bhandari to address a special Parliament session slated for March 22 and 23 to celebrate the 'Mujib Year'.

A parliament secretariat spokesman earlier said it would be the third such instance when foreign dignitaries would address Bangladesh Parliament since 1972 and 1974 when the then Indian president VV Giri and erstwhile Yugoslavia's president Josip Broz Tito spoke in the House.

Bangladesh has taken a series of initiatives to celebrate the 'Mujib Year', including to make a film on the Bangabandhu by noted Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's foreign ministry on Sunday said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to make a one-day visit to Dhaka on March 17, coinciding with the beginning of the 'Mujib Year' to mark the birth centenary of the country's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry on Sunday said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to make a one-day visit to Dhaka on March 17, coinciding with the beginning of the 'Mujib Year' to mark the birth centenary of the country's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The main focus of Prime Minister Modi's visit would be on Mujib Year's inauguration with grand celebration, but he is also scheduled to have bilateral talks with his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina, the Bangabandhu's daughter, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen told a media briefing here. "The date of his (Modi) arrival in Dhaka is yet to be finalised, but he is likely to be here on March 17," he said. The Bangladesh government will observe 'Mujib Borsho (year)' from March 2020 to March 2021 across the globe. Meanwhile, officials of the Indian High Commission here and the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry said India's External Affairs Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla would arrive in Dhaka on Monday to finalise the programmes of Modi's upcoming visit. During his visit, Shringla, who previously served as India's high commissioner in Dhaka, would meet Prime Minister Hasina and Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, they said. Shringla would also visit his Bangladeshi counterpart, they said, adding that he would deliver a keynote speech at a seminar jointly organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. Gowher Rizvi, International Affairs adviser to the prime minister of Bangladesh, would also address the seminar titled 'Bangladesh and India: A Promising Future' as the chief guest, the officials said. According to the officials, Dhaka will also invite former Indian president Pranab Mukherjee and Nepalese President Bidhya Devi Bhandari to address a special Parliament session slated for March 22 and 23 to celebrate the 'Mujib Year'. A parliament secretariat spokesman earlier said it would be the third such instance when foreign dignitaries would address Bangladesh Parliament since 1972 and 1974 when the then Indian president VV Giri and erstwhile Yugoslavia's president Josip Broz Tito spoke in the House. Bangladesh has taken a series of initiatives to celebrate the 'Mujib Year', including to make a film on the Bangabandhu by noted Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal.

PM Modi likely to visit Bangladesh on March 17: Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to direct Indian embassy officials in Iran to take necessary steps for the evacuation of more than a hundred Indian fishermen stranded in the Middle Eastern country amid coronavirus outbreak.

In a letter dated March 1, Vijayan informed that the fishermen -- 60 of whom hail from Kerala -- are "unable to return to India on account of the COVID-19 spread" in Iran.

"We have received information that more than a hundred fishermen are trapped in Azalur, Iran. When contacted by State Government officials, it has been stated by the persons trapped in Azalur that more than a hundred persons are there out of which around sixty are reported to be from Kerala," the letter read.

"As per the prevailing situation, it is learnt that they are unable to return to India on account of the COVID-19 spread. In this circumstances, I request you to direct the Embassy officials to take necessary steps and arrange for the safe return of these persons," it added.

Iran has reported 54 deaths from coronavirus -- the most outside of China -- while as many as 987 people have been infected from the virus, the country`s Health Ministry said, as reported by the IRNA.

Vijayan`s letter to Jaishankar comes a day after Indian Ambassador to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra said that the authorities are working to facilitate the return of those Indians who wish to go back to New Delhi.

"In view of coronavirus, we are working to facilitate the return of those Indians wishing to go back home. Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," the ambassador said.

First detected to the Chinese city of Wuhan in December, last year, coronavirus has spread to more than 45 countries across the world, including India.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to direct Indian embassy officials in Iran to take necessary steps for the evacuation of more than a hundred Indian fishermen stranded in the Middle Eastern country amid coronavirus outbreak.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging him to direct Indian embassy officials in Iran to take necessary steps for the evacuation of more than a hundred Indian fishermen stranded in the Middle Eastern country amid coronavirus outbreak. In a letter dated March 1, Vijayan informed that the fishermen -- 60 of whom hail from Kerala -- are "unable to return to India on account of the COVID-19 spread" in Iran. "We have received information that more than a hundred fishermen are trapped in Azalur, Iran. When contacted by State Government officials, it has been stated by the persons trapped in Azalur that more than a hundred persons are there out of which around sixty are reported to be from Kerala," the letter read. "As per the prevailing situation, it is learnt that they are unable to return to India on account of the COVID-19 spread. In this circumstances, I request you to direct the Embassy officials to take necessary steps and arrange for the safe return of these persons," it added. Iran has reported 54 deaths from coronavirus -- the most outside of China -- while as many as 987 people have been infected from the virus, the country`s Health Ministry said, as reported by the IRNA. Vijayan`s letter to Jaishankar comes a day after Indian Ambassador to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra said that the authorities are working to facilitate the return of those Indians who wish to go back to New Delhi. "In view of coronavirus, we are working to facilitate the return of those Indians wishing to go back home. Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," the ambassador said. First detected to the Chinese city of Wuhan in December, last year, coronavirus has spread to more than 45 countries across the world, including India.

Coronavirus: Kerala CM urges Jaishankar to evacuate stranded Indian fishermen from Iran

A week after deadly communal violence erupted in northeast Delhi, the situation in affected areas was peaceful but tense on Sunday as four more bodies were fished out from drains in Gokalpuri and Shiv Vihar and heavy police deployment continued.

In parts of northeast Delhi, people complained of cash crunch as several bank branches and ATMs have remained closed in the aftermath of the riots.

The Delhi Police said it has registered 254 FIRs and arrested or detained 903 persons in connection with the violence so far. Forty-one of the cases were registered under the Arms Act.

No untoward incident has been reported from the northeast district over the past three days, an official said, adding police are urging residents to not pay attention to rumours and report them to authorities.

Three bodies were fished out from two drains in Gokalpuri on Sunday while one body was pulled out out from a drain in Shiv Vihar, police said. However, it is yet to be ascertained if they are linked to the riots and authorities have not updated the death toll figure.

Several bodies of riot victims have been found in drains since Wednesday including of IB staffer Ankit Sharma after violence ebbed.

Panic spread across several parts of west Delhi on Sunday evening following false rumours of violence. Delhi Metro also shut down entry and exits of seven stations without giving any reason. However, Delhi Police swiftly denied any incident and appealed to all to remain calm.

Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited some of the riot-hit areas, including Brahmapuri, and consoled the people affected by the worst violence in three decades in Delhi.

"It is very disturbing to see that so many people are badly affected. We have to relieve them of trauma and bring their lives back on track. Everyone should come together to do this," he told reporters.

Schools are closed in Northeast district till March 7.

On Sunday, the CBSE said any further delay in conducting board exams in violence-affected areas may hamper chances of students in admission to professional courses like medical and engineering, but added that it is ready to conduct fresh exams for students who will not be able to appear as per schedule.

Aadil Khan, a resident of Jafradbad, said that several bank branches and ATMs located at B Block of Yamuna Vihar, were closed since the deadly communal violence erupted on February 23.

Mohammad Alam, 27, a mobile recharge shop owner in Shiv Vihar --- one of worst violence-affected areas --- said his shop remained shut for the last four days.

"The business has been hit badly due to closure of banks and ATMs. People don't have cash," Alam told PTI.

Kailash Kumar, who lives in Mustafabad, said his family would leave the city for their hometown in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, but he could not draw cash for travel.

Kumar said that apart from banks and ATMs, most of grocery shops remained shut due to which there is shortage of essential commodities.

The violence in Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Babarpur, Chand Bagh, Shiv Vihar, Bhajan Pura, Yamuna Vihar and Mustafabad areas of northeast Delhi claimed at least 42 lives and left over 200 injured.

A large number of properties have been damaged. Frenzied mobs had torched houses, shops, vehicles, a petrol pump and pelted stones at locals and police personnel.

Police said they are conducting flag marches in violence-affected areas. However, there was an eerie silence in the narrow bylanes that were teeming with people and hawkers barely a week back.

In Shiv Vihar, among the worst hit areas, the roads were deserted and almost all the houses locked. In Mustafabad, people were wary of stepping out of their homes.

"Though there is police presence, tension is lingering. We celebrated Eid, Holi, Diwali together. I have never faced such a situation in my life. There is grief, mistrust, disbelief. Those who indulged in violence did not belong to the area, they came from outside," said Mohammad Yunus, 45.

Yunus, who owns a garment store in Shiv Vihar, said he was saved by his Hindu neighbours during the violence and they tore the shop's name-board to protect the business from rioters.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the AAP government is putting in best efforts to provide relief to the people affected by the riots.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said he is personally trying to ensure that relief reaches each person in need, asserting that the government wants people to return to their homes and be welcomed by their neighbours.

Anxious relatives of people missing during the violence continued to queue up at the GTB hospital mortuary, where bodies of riot victims were kept.

With a photograph of her youngest brother, Salman (25), in her hand, Nabi Jan frantically went around the mortuary hoping that he was not among those killed.

"Salman worked as a labourer and had gone to Gokalpuri on February 26. He kept a phone, but it is switched off and there is no clue of what happened to him," Jan said. 
None of the bodies in the mortuary was of his brother, he said.

A woman, whose 19-year-old son has been missing from northeast Delhi's Mustafabad area, fell unconscious after seeing a corpse at the mortuary. Her family later confirmed that her son's body was not in there.

Sources said till Saturday six bodies were unidentified at the mortuary, out of which two were later identified and claimed. One of the bodies was charred.

Lawyer Mamtesh Sharma and paralegal volunteer Asha Mittal, manning the Shahdara District Legal Services Authority (SDLSA) help desk, said they were coordinating with hospital authorities and police to provide assistance to people seeking information about their missing family members.

"So far, around 35 families contacted us. Some have identified bodies, while others were directed by us to look into the wards where injured are admitted. Also, we are coordinating with police to find out if anyone missing was detained by them," Sharma said.

Meanwhile, human rights activists wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner demanding that the names and addresses of those arrested in connection with the violence in the national capital be publicised as mandated by the law.

In a letter, signed by activists Anjali Bharadwaj, co-convenor of the National Campaign for People's Right to Information, advocate Prashant Bhushan, CPI leader Annie Raja, Amrita Johri among others, said Section 41-C of the CrPC mandatorily requires that a police control room be established in all districts and section 41-C(2) demands that the names and addresses of all persons arrested be displayed on the notice board outside the control room.

Acting Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava visited DCP Amit Sharma who is undergoing treatment after suffering serious injuries in the clashes.

Shrivastava has been given the additional charge of Delhi Police Commissioner, following Amulya Patnaik's retirement on Saturday.

Shrivastava visited Max Hospital in Patparganj and inquired about the health of Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara), who suffered injuries to his head and hand in violence in Gokulpuri on February 24.

"His health has improved and he was likely to be shifted to the ward later today. He has undergone the surgery. He is having his meals now and recovering from the serious injuries," a family friend told PTI.&nbsp;

A week after deadly communal violence erupted in northeast Delhi, the situation in affected areas was peaceful but tense on Sunday as four more bodies were fished out from drains in Gokalpuri and Shiv Vihar and heavy police deployment continued.

A week after deadly communal violence erupted in northeast Delhi, the situation in affected areas was peaceful but tense on Sunday as four more bodies were fished out from drains in Gokalpuri and Shiv Vihar and heavy police deployment continued. In parts of northeast Delhi, people complained of cash crunch as several bank branches and ATMs have remained closed in the aftermath of the riots. The Delhi Police said it has registered 254 FIRs and arrested or detained 903 persons in connection with the violence so far. Forty-one of the cases were registered under the Arms Act. No untoward incident has been reported from the northeast district over the past three days, an official said, adding police are urging residents to not pay attention to rumours and report them to authorities. Three bodies were fished out from two drains in Gokalpuri on Sunday while one body was pulled out out from a drain in Shiv Vihar, police said. However, it is yet to be ascertained if they are linked to the riots and authorities have not updated the death toll figure. Several bodies of riot victims have been found in drains since Wednesday including of IB staffer Ankit Sharma after violence ebbed. Panic spread across several parts of west Delhi on Sunday evening following false rumours of violence. Delhi Metro also shut down entry and exits of seven stations without giving any reason. However, Delhi Police swiftly denied any incident and appealed to all to remain calm. Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited some of the riot-hit areas, including Brahmapuri, and consoled the people affected by the worst violence in three decades in Delhi. "It is very disturbing to see that so many people are badly affected. We have to relieve them of trauma and bring their lives back on track. Everyone should come together to do this," he told reporters. Schools are closed in Northeast district till March 7. On Sunday, the CBSE said any further delay in conducting board exams in violence-affected areas may hamper chances of students in admission to professional courses like medical and engineering, but added that it is ready to conduct fresh exams for students who will not be able to appear as per schedule. Aadil Khan, a resident of Jafradbad, said that several bank branches and ATMs located at B Block of Yamuna Vihar, were closed since the deadly communal violence erupted on February 23. Mohammad Alam, 27, a mobile recharge shop owner in Shiv Vihar --- one of worst violence-affected areas --- said his shop remained shut for the last four days. "The business has been hit badly due to closure of banks and ATMs. People don't have cash," Alam told PTI. Kailash Kumar, who lives in Mustafabad, said his family would leave the city for their hometown in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur, but he could not draw cash for travel. Kumar said that apart from banks and ATMs, most of grocery shops remained shut due to which there is shortage of essential commodities. The violence in Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Babarpur, Chand Bagh, Shiv Vihar, Bhajan Pura, Yamuna Vihar and Mustafabad areas of northeast Delhi claimed at least 42 lives and left over 200 injured. A large number of properties have been damaged. Frenzied mobs had torched houses, shops, vehicles, a petrol pump and pelted stones at locals and police personnel. Police said they are conducting flag marches in violence-affected areas. However, there was an eerie silence in the narrow bylanes that were teeming with people and hawkers barely a week back. In Shiv Vihar, among the worst hit areas, the roads were deserted and almost all the houses locked. In Mustafabad, people were wary of stepping out of their homes. "Though there is police presence, tension is lingering. We celebrated Eid, Holi, Diwali together. I have never faced such a situation in my life. There is grief, mistrust, disbelief. Those who indulged in violence did not belong to the area, they came from outside," said Mohammad Yunus, 45. Yunus, who owns a garment store in Shiv Vihar, said he was saved by his Hindu neighbours during the violence and they tore the shop's name-board to protect the business from rioters. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the AAP government is putting in best efforts to provide relief to the people affected by the riots. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said he is personally trying to ensure that relief reaches each person in need, asserting that the government wants people to return to their homes and be welcomed by their neighbours. Anxious relatives of people missing during the violence continued to queue up at the GTB hospital mortuary, where bodies of riot victims were kept. With a photograph of her youngest brother, Salman (25), in her hand, Nabi Jan frantically went around the mortuary hoping that he was not among those killed. "Salman worked as a labourer and had gone to Gokalpuri on February 26. He kept a phone, but it is switched off and there is no clue of what happened to him," Jan said. None of the bodies in the mortuary was of his brother, he said. A woman, whose 19-year-old son has been missing from northeast Delhi's Mustafabad area, fell unconscious after seeing a corpse at the mortuary. Her family later confirmed that her son's body was not in there. Sources said till Saturday six bodies were unidentified at the mortuary, out of which two were later identified and claimed. One of the bodies was charred. Lawyer Mamtesh Sharma and paralegal volunteer Asha Mittal, manning the Shahdara District Legal Services Authority (SDLSA) help desk, said they were coordinating with hospital authorities and police to provide assistance to people seeking information about their missing family members. "So far, around 35 families contacted us. Some have identified bodies, while others were directed by us to look into the wards where injured are admitted. Also, we are coordinating with police to find out if anyone missing was detained by them," Sharma said. Meanwhile, human rights activists wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner demanding that the names and addresses of those arrested in connection with the violence in the national capital be publicised as mandated by the law. In a letter, signed by activists Anjali Bharadwaj, co-convenor of the National Campaign for People's Right to Information, advocate Prashant Bhushan, CPI leader Annie Raja, Amrita Johri among others, said Section 41-C of the CrPC mandatorily requires that a police control room be established in all districts and section 41-C(2) demands that the names and addresses of all persons arrested be displayed on the notice board outside the control room. Acting Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava visited DCP Amit Sharma who is undergoing treatment after suffering serious injuries in the clashes. Shrivastava has been given the additional charge of Delhi Police Commissioner, following Amulya Patnaik's retirement on Saturday. Shrivastava visited Max Hospital in Patparganj and inquired about the health of Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara), who suffered injuries to his head and hand in violence in Gokulpuri on February 24. "His health has improved and he was likely to be shifted to the ward later today. He has undergone the surgery. He is having his meals now and recovering from the serious injuries," a family friend told PTI.

Delhi violence: Tension persists in riot-hit areas, four more bodies fished out from drains 

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.&nbsp;

During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges.&nbsp;The event was inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday.

Stressing on the need of regional cooperation, Wickremesinghe said, "We had more regional cooperation and trade in South and South East Asia in ancient times, far more than BIMSTEC and SAARC have today."

"SAARC countries have 1% of world exports, ASEAN has 8%. We need more regional integration if we want a greater place in the world," Wickremesinghe also said.

The event then moved to the second session where former cricketer Anil Kumble and The Hindu Sports Editor KC Vijayakumar, held a candid conversation on " Indian sport: An Insider's perspective". 
&nbsp; 
Recalling his initial days as part of the Indian team, Kumble said, "When I first came into the team, there were a lot of doubts, reports suggesting that I could just restrict a batsman. That I needed doctored pitches.... these questions were always there. Even post-retirement, in Delhi someone asked me how it feels to have 600 wickets without spinning the ball.

"When I look back, I am satisfied with what I have been able to do."

National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Ram Madhav was also among the distinguished guests in the event.

"Kashmir is not a gambit, it's a decision taken with full thinking. It's not brought about suddenly. We have been consistently for the past 70 years that we will do away with Article 370. From 1954 successive governments have diluted it," the senior BJP leader said while referring to the abrogation of Article 370.

"Next vacation, spend it in Jammu and Kashmir. If you want to go on a pilgrimage, go to Amarnath or Vaishno Devi. If you want to go on your honeymoon, go to Gulmarg," Ram Madha said in a candid conversation with Narayan Lakshman, Associate Editor of The Hindu.

WION's Executive Editor moderated "Tomorrow's leaders: Youth as a force in politics" during which Ritesh Pandey,&nbsp;Tejaswai Surya and Sasmit Patra, members of Parliament, discussed the role of students politics in our country.

"Young leaders bring zeal and zest," Tejsawi Surya said during the discussion.

As a product of students' politics my self, "I will always support the active participation of students in politics," &nbsp;Surya also said.

The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.&nbsp;

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges.

The second day of the fourth edition of 'The Huddle' 2020 began with a keynote address by Sri Lanka's former Prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. During his address in the two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, the Sri Lankan leader spoke about India's role in South Asian politics and his nation's challenges. The event was inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday. Stressing on the need of regional cooperation, Wickremesinghe said, "We had more regional cooperation and trade in South and South East Asia in ancient times, far more than BIMSTEC and SAARC have today." "SAARC countries have 1% of world exports, ASEAN has 8%. We need more regional integration if we want a greater place in the world," Wickremesinghe also said. The event then moved to the second session where former cricketer Anil Kumble and The Hindu Sports Editor KC Vijayakumar, held a candid conversation on " Indian sport: An Insider's perspective". Recalling his initial days as part of the Indian team, Kumble said, "When I first came into the team, there were a lot of doubts, reports suggesting that I could just restrict a batsman. That I needed doctored pitches.... these questions were always there. Even post-retirement, in Delhi someone asked me how it feels to have 600 wickets without spinning the ball. "When I look back, I am satisfied with what I have been able to do." National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Ram Madhav was also among the distinguished guests in the event. "Kashmir is not a gambit, it's a decision taken with full thinking. It's not brought about suddenly. We have been consistently for the past 70 years that we will do away with Article 370. From 1954 successive governments have diluted it," the senior BJP leader said while referring to the abrogation of Article 370. "Next vacation, spend it in Jammu and Kashmir. If you want to go on a pilgrimage, go to Amarnath or Vaishno Devi. If you want to go on your honeymoon, go to Gulmarg," Ram Madha said in a candid conversation with Narayan Lakshman, Associate Editor of The Hindu. WION's Executive Editor moderated "Tomorrow's leaders: Youth as a force in politics" during which Ritesh Pandey, Tejaswai Surya and Sasmit Patra, members of Parliament, discussed the role of students politics in our country. "Young leaders bring zeal and zest," Tejsawi Surya said during the discussion. As a product of students' politics my self, "I will always support the active participation of students in politics," Surya also said. The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.

Kashmir decision was taken with full thinking, says Ram Madhav at 'The Huddle' 2020

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he&nbsp;"never be excited about a crowd again".

On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump. Both received a rousing welcome with over one lakh people participated in the "Namaste Trump" event in Ahemdabad.

Addressing a rally in South Carolina, the US president recalled the mega event at the Motera stadium and said, "In India, I hate to say this to you, they actually have a 129,000-seat stadium. Did you see it? The place was packed, and they did better than most."

"They gave me credit for 100,000. That was not bad. It's 129 (thousand)... The stadium holds 100 (thousand). They had a field that's about three times...It's cricket. It's the biggest stadium. And they had 129," he said.

Trump said he shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is a "great guy" and is "loved by people of India".

"We had an amazing thing. And I went in, and here's the problem. This is a big crowd and normally, I like talking about my crowd because I get the crowds like nobody. But, I just got back from 140 or 50 or 60,000 people and now I am coming here. What does this place hold, 15? It's hard to be enthused. You understand that?

"I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India. Think of this, they have 1.5 billion people. We have 350, so we are doing pretty well, I will tell you what, but I love this crowd and I love that crowd too," the US president told his supporters.

Trump arrived in Ahmedabad&nbsp;on February 24 where he and Melania were given a grand reception. From Ahmedabad, he and his delegation travelled to Agra where they visited the Taj Mahal.

In the last leg of their visit, Trump and Melania visited New Delhi. The US President received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday morning.

Following this, Trump held bilateral talks with&nbsp;Prime Minister Modi during which three agreements were finalised. The couple wrapped up their visit by attending a banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind.

The US president and his delegation left India on the evening of February 25.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he "never be excited about a crowd again". On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump.

Recalling hid maiden visit to India, US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he "never be excited about a crowd again". On February 24, Trump visited India for the first time along with first lady Melania Trump. Both received a rousing welcome with over one lakh people participated in the "Namaste Trump" event in Ahemdabad. Addressing a rally in South Carolina, the US president recalled the mega event at the Motera stadium and said, "In India, I hate to say this to you, they actually have a 129,000-seat stadium. Did you see it? The place was packed, and they did better than most." "They gave me credit for 100,000. That was not bad. It's 129 (thousand)... The stadium holds 100 (thousand). They had a field that's about three times...It's cricket. It's the biggest stadium. And they had 129," he said. Trump said he shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is a "great guy" and is "loved by people of India". "We had an amazing thing. And I went in, and here's the problem. This is a big crowd and normally, I like talking about my crowd because I get the crowds like nobody. But, I just got back from 140 or 50 or 60,000 people and now I am coming here. What does this place hold, 15? It's hard to be enthused. You understand that? "I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India. Think of this, they have 1.5 billion people. We have 350, so we are doing pretty well, I will tell you what, but I love this crowd and I love that crowd too," the US president told his supporters. Trump arrived in Ahmedabad on February 24 where he and Melania were given a grand reception. From Ahmedabad, he and his delegation travelled to Agra where they visited the Taj Mahal. In the last leg of their visit, Trump and Melania visited New Delhi. The US President received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday morning. Following this, Trump held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi during which three agreements were finalised. The couple wrapped up their visit by attending a banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind. The US president and his delegation left India on the evening of February 25. (With inputs from agencies)

I may never be excited again about a crowd after going to India: US President Donald Trump

&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the country has zero-tolerance towards terrorism and has developed a "proactive" defence policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shah also said that India has now joined the league of countries like the US and Israel that can carry out surgical strikes.

"We have zero tolerance towards terrorism. India had no proactive defence policy. Now, after Modiji became the PM, we have developed a proactive security policy that is distinct from the foreign policy," he said in Rajarhat here after inaugurating the 29 Special Composite Group complex of the National Security Guard (NSG).

Shah said the NSG is a globally recognised counter-terror force.

"India did not carry out any attack on its own in 10,000 years of history. But if one enters our soil and dares to attack our citizens and jawans, we will give them a befitting reply," he said.

The home minister said the central government is working on a policy to improve the "housing satisfaction ratio" to enable jawans to stay with their families for at least 100 days in a year.

Hailing NSG personnel for fighting terrorism, Shah said, "We have taken measures to make it the best force in the world."

There should always be efforts to "neutralise terrorists in the minimum possible time" during an operation, he said.

Shah said he had seen two anti-terror operations, the 2002 Akshardham temple attack and the 2008 Mumbai attack, from very close quarters as he was the then home minister of Gujarat.

The home minister inaugurated the 29 Special Composite Group complex of the NSG here and the force's residential clusters in Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai.

He said all the projects together entailed an expense of Rs 245 crore.

Shah later inspected a mock drill by NSG commandos that included rescuing people trapped in a high rise.

He arrived here earlier in the day amid protests by opposition parties against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

The protests were held in various parts of the city, including areas in the vicinity of the Shaheed Minar Ground, where Shah addressed a rally later in the day.

NSG Director General Anup Kumar Singh said Shah has a "strong personality and vision and the ability to take decision" which has given new direction to the security force.

He said after the Mumbai attack, a decision was taken to set up five regional NSG hubs for reaching out to any spot in the quickest time."Another hub is coming up," he said.

The NSG hub in Kolkata caters to several north- eastern states apart from Bihar and West Bengal, an official said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the country has zero-tolerance towards terrorism and has developed a "proactive" defence policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the country has zero-tolerance towards terrorism and has developed a "proactive" defence policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah also said that India has now joined the league of countries like the US and Israel that can carry out surgical strikes. "We have zero tolerance towards terrorism. India had no proactive defence policy. Now, after Modiji became the PM, we have developed a proactive security policy that is distinct from the foreign policy," he said in Rajarhat here after inaugurating the 29 Special Composite Group complex of the National Security Guard (NSG). Shah said the NSG is a globally recognised counter-terror force. "India did not carry out any attack on its own in 10,000 years of history. But if one enters our soil and dares to attack our citizens and jawans, we will give them a befitting reply," he said. The home minister said the central government is working on a policy to improve the "housing satisfaction ratio" to enable jawans to stay with their families for at least 100 days in a year. Hailing NSG personnel for fighting terrorism, Shah said, "We have taken measures to make it the best force in the world." There should always be efforts to "neutralise terrorists in the minimum possible time" during an operation, he said. Shah said he had seen two anti-terror operations, the 2002 Akshardham temple attack and the 2008 Mumbai attack, from very close quarters as he was the then home minister of Gujarat. The home minister inaugurated the 29 Special Composite Group complex of the NSG here and the force's residential clusters in Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai. He said all the projects together entailed an expense of Rs 245 crore. Shah later inspected a mock drill by NSG commandos that included rescuing people trapped in a high rise. He arrived here earlier in the day amid protests by opposition parties against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The protests were held in various parts of the city, including areas in the vicinity of the Shaheed Minar Ground, where Shah addressed a rally later in the day. NSG Director General Anup Kumar Singh said Shah has a "strong personality and vision and the ability to take decision" which has given new direction to the security force. He said after the Mumbai attack, a decision was taken to set up five regional NSG hubs for reaching out to any spot in the quickest time."Another hub is coming up," he said. The NSG hub in Kolkata caters to several north- eastern states apart from Bihar and West Bengal, an official said.

India has developed proactive defence policy: Amit Shah

Panic gripped the residents of several parts of west Delhi on Sunday evening following false rumours of violence but the Delhi Police denied any incident and appealed people to remain calm.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said it had shut down the entry and exit gates of seven metro stations but did not give any reason. The stations were later reopened. 
"A rumour has been noticed that there is some tension in Khyala-Raghubir Nagar area of West District. There is no truth behind it. All are requested to keep calm as the situation is absolutely normal &amp; peaceful," DCP West Deepak Purohit said.

"There are some rumours regarding some communal tension in Tilak Nagar and Khyala area. It is intimated that there is No tension in Tilak Nagar and Khyala and whole west Distt area. Nothing to worry about," he added.

Police said some "unsubstantiated reports" of tension in southeast and west districts were circulated on the social media.

"It is to reiterate that these are all rumours. Don't pay attention to such rumours. Delhi Police is closely monitoring accounts spreading rumours and taking action," they said, adding that rumours about tension in Dwarka and Badarpur areas were also "unsubstantiated".

Shopkeepers downed shutters and people rushed to reach home early in several areas including Subhash Nagar, Tilak Nagar, Janakpuri and Khyala in west Delhi. 
Tilak Nagar MLA Jarnail Singh too urged people to remain calm.

"I reached at the site as soon as I heard of the rumour of riots, shops were shut people were in a state of panic but no one saw any riots happening. It was a conspiracy to spread rumours and spoil the atmosphere. I appeal to people to maintain peace and brotherhood and do not believe the rumours," he said.

Rajesh Sharma, a resident of Subhash Nagar, said he had gone to a mall in west Delhi when at around 7:45 pm, he witnessed sudden commotion.

"The outlets inside the mall began shutting down and the situation remained tense for nearly 20 minutes before the police arrived and assured everyone that the situation was normal,"

he said. 
Meanwhile, the metro stations which were briefly shut down included Tilak Nagar, Nangloi, Surajmal Stadium, Badarpur, Tughlakabad, Uttam Nagar west and Nawada metro stations.

Panic gripped the residents of several parts of west Delhi on Sunday evening following false rumours of violence but the Delhi Police denied any incident and appealed people to remain calm.

Panic gripped the residents of several parts of west Delhi on Sunday evening following false rumours of violence but the Delhi Police denied any incident and appealed people to remain calm. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said it had shut down the entry and exit gates of seven metro stations but did not give any reason. The stations were later reopened. "A rumour has been noticed that there is some tension in Khyala-Raghubir Nagar area of West District. There is no truth behind it. All are requested to keep calm as the situation is absolutely normal & peaceful," DCP West Deepak Purohit said. "There are some rumours regarding some communal tension in Tilak Nagar and Khyala area. It is intimated that there is No tension in Tilak Nagar and Khyala and whole west Distt area. Nothing to worry about," he added. Police said some "unsubstantiated reports" of tension in southeast and west districts were circulated on the social media. "It is to reiterate that these are all rumours. Don't pay attention to such rumours. Delhi Police is closely monitoring accounts spreading rumours and taking action," they said, adding that rumours about tension in Dwarka and Badarpur areas were also "unsubstantiated". Shopkeepers downed shutters and people rushed to reach home early in several areas including Subhash Nagar, Tilak Nagar, Janakpuri and Khyala in west Delhi. Tilak Nagar MLA Jarnail Singh too urged people to remain calm. "I reached at the site as soon as I heard of the rumour of riots, shops were shut people were in a state of panic but no one saw any riots happening. It was a conspiracy to spread rumours and spoil the atmosphere. I appeal to people to maintain peace and brotherhood and do not believe the rumours," he said. Rajesh Sharma, a resident of Subhash Nagar, said he had gone to a mall in west Delhi when at around 7:45 pm, he witnessed sudden commotion. "The outlets inside the mall began shutting down and the situation remained tense for nearly 20 minutes before the police arrived and assured everyone that the situation was normal," he said. Meanwhile, the metro stations which were briefly shut down included Tilak Nagar, Nangloi, Surajmal Stadium, Badarpur, Tughlakabad, Uttam Nagar west and Nawada metro stations.

False rumours of violence spark panic in parts of Delhi, police appeals for calm

The radar system is developed by the state-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO’s) Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) Bengaluru-based laboratory and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

India bags US$ 40 million defence deal to supply 4 radar systems to Armenia

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Nawab Malik on Sunday said that politics should not be done on 5 per cent reservation for Muslims even as he welcomed Madhya Pradesh government`s plans to give reservation to minorities in the educational institution.&nbsp;

''According to the recommendations of the Sachar Committee report, the conditions of Muslims socially and economically is not good. And, if anyone gets education then its good for them. One should not see politics in this. Muslims are also an important part of society," Malik reportedly told news agency ANI here on Sunday.

He said that the Muslims` development will also reflect in the country`s overall development and the "BJP should also understand this".

On Friday, Malik, who is the Minority Affairs Minister in the Maharashtra government, had announced that a law will be made to give reservation to Muslims in educational institutions in the state.

"The High Court has given its nod to give five per cent reservation to Muslims in government educational institutions. But the previous BJP-led government did not take any action on it. Now we have announced that we will implement the High Court`s order in the form of law as soon as possible," Malik said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Nawab Malik on Sunday said that politics should not be done on 5 per cent reservation for Muslims even as he welcomed Madhya Pradesh government`s plans to give reservation to minorities in the educational institution.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Nawab Malik on Sunday said that politics should not be done on 5 per cent reservation for Muslims even as he welcomed Madhya Pradesh government`s plans to give reservation to minorities in the educational institution. ''According to the recommendations of the Sachar Committee report, the conditions of Muslims socially and economically is not good. And, if anyone gets education then its good for them. One should not see politics in this. Muslims are also an important part of society," Malik reportedly told news agency ANI here on Sunday. He said that the Muslims` development will also reflect in the country`s overall development and the "BJP should also understand this". On Friday, Malik, who is the Minority Affairs Minister in the Maharashtra government, had announced that a law will be made to give reservation to Muslims in educational institutions in the state. "The High Court has given its nod to give five per cent reservation to Muslims in government educational institutions. But the previous BJP-led government did not take any action on it. Now we have announced that we will implement the High Court`s order in the form of law as soon as possible," Malik said. (With inputs from ANI)

Politics should not be done on 5 per cent reservation to Muslims: Nawab Malik

India's history is unparalleled in the world, President Ram Nath Kovind said while inaugurating 'The Huddle', a two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, 'The Hindu'.

Lauding the event, President said, The Huddle is a platform for the churning of thought on a variety of issues that concern people.

"You all deserve appreciation for organising 'The Huddle' as a platform for the churning of thought on a variety of issues that concern people. I am sure that the nectar, that is, Amrit, coming out from the churning would benefit the nation and the world," President said in his inaugural speech.

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President also said, "Debate and discussion are internalised in India’s social psyche to arrive at truth since time immemorial." &nbsp;

"Long before the West discovered the benefits of democratic decision-making, Sant Basaveshwara, a 12th-century philosopher endowed with extraordinary wisdom, had promoted a culture of collective discussion which was called ‘Anubhav Mantapa’," President said.

"This is remembered as one of the world’s first parliaments where people were encouraged to speak their mind irrespective of their social status. This was also a unique experiment of gender equality as women were also encouraged to take part in discussions and express their views," President Kovind added.

"We, the people of India are blessed to have sages like Bhagwan Basaveshwara among our ancestors," he also said.

During the speech, President Kovind also pointed out that sometimes dogmas and personal prejudices distort the truth.

"In the 150th year of Gandhiji’s birth, let us ponder upon this question: Will it not be proper to pursue truth itself as the ideology? Gandhiji has shown us the path by walking ceaselessly in search of truth which would ultimately encompass every positive attribute that enriches the universe."

"Truth exists in an absolute form which cannot be eclipsed by blinkers of prejudices. It cannot be a case of 'your truth' versus 'my truth'. Truth has to be on."

The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.&nbsp;

India's history is unparalleled in the world, President Ram Nath Kovind said while inaugurating 'The Huddle', a two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, 'The Hindu'.

India's history is unparalleled in the world, President Ram Nath Kovind said while inaugurating 'The Huddle', a two-day conclave organised by India's leading daily, 'The Hindu'. Lauding the event, President said, The Huddle is a platform for the churning of thought on a variety of issues that concern people. "You all deserve appreciation for organising 'The Huddle' as a platform for the churning of thought on a variety of issues that concern people. I am sure that the nectar, that is, Amrit, coming out from the churning would benefit the nation and the world," President said in his inaugural speech. × President also said, "Debate and discussion are internalised in India’s social psyche to arrive at truth since time immemorial." "Long before the West discovered the benefits of democratic decision-making, Sant Basaveshwara, a 12th-century philosopher endowed with extraordinary wisdom, had promoted a culture of collective discussion which was called ‘Anubhav Mantapa’," President said. "This is remembered as one of the world’s first parliaments where people were encouraged to speak their mind irrespective of their social status. This was also a unique experiment of gender equality as women were also encouraged to take part in discussions and express their views," President Kovind added. "We, the people of India are blessed to have sages like Bhagwan Basaveshwara among our ancestors," he also said. During the speech, President Kovind also pointed out that sometimes dogmas and personal prejudices distort the truth. "In the 150th year of Gandhiji’s birth, let us ponder upon this question: Will it not be proper to pursue truth itself as the ideology? Gandhiji has shown us the path by walking ceaselessly in search of truth which would ultimately encompass every positive attribute that enriches the universe." "Truth exists in an absolute form which cannot be eclipsed by blinkers of prejudices. It cannot be a case of 'your truth' versus 'my truth'. Truth has to be on." The event, organised at the ITC Gardenia in Bengaluru, featured over 30 speakers, showcasing some of the best minds from the world of politics, business, academics, sports, entertainment and the arts.

India's history is unparalleled in the world, says President Ram Nath Kovind at 'The Huddle'

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country.&nbsp;

Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as&nbsp;health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours. At least 43 people have died in Iran due to coronavirus and and 593 have been infected.

In a note verbale, Iranian mission said, "The Ministry of Health of the Islamic Republic of Iran has communicated its full preparedness for carrying out of needful medical examination based on relevant health protocols in respect of screening the Coronavirus at the health centres established in the Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran, and also at other points of exit from Iran, including land borders which could be used in favour of Indian nationals at the time of their departure from Iran."

The Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, in a tweet, said, 'working to facilitate the return of&nbsp;Indians who wish&nbsp;to come back home".

"Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," he also said.&nbsp;

Most of the impacted are Kashmiri pilgrims and students. As per a report, 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran.&nbsp;

India has suspended all flights from Iran including Mahan Air and Iran Air.

As per the Iranian Academic calendar, the schools and universities remain closed for almost 20 to 25 days from March 20 due to Nowrouz holidays, the Iranian New Year.

The Iran government has closed universities due to the coronavirus crisis and asked students to vacate their hostels.

The Tehran Gurudwara Sahib is facilitating the return of the Sikh families.

Meanwhile, Iran has requested New Delhi to allow the country's citizens who are stranded in India to be be taken back in special Iranian flights.

"Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel," Iran's Embassy said on Twitter.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> <a href="https://t.co/00MjPytCyN">pic.twitter.com/00MjPytCyN</a>
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&nbsp;

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country. Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours.

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country. Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours. At least 43 people have died in Iran due to coronavirus and and 593 have been infected. In a note verbale, Iranian mission said, "The Ministry of Health of the Islamic Republic of Iran has communicated its full preparedness for carrying out of needful medical examination based on relevant health protocols in respect of screening the Coronavirus at the health centres established in the Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran, and also at other points of exit from Iran, including land borders which could be used in favour of Indian nationals at the time of their departure from Iran." The Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, in a tweet, said, 'working to facilitate the return of Indians who wish to come back home". "Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," he also said. Most of the impacted are Kashmiri pilgrims and students. As per a report, 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran. India has suspended all flights from Iran including Mahan Air and Iran Air. As per the Iranian Academic calendar, the schools and universities remain closed for almost 20 to 25 days from March 20 due to Nowrouz holidays, the Iranian New Year. The Iran government has closed universities due to the coronavirus crisis and asked students to vacate their hostels. The Tehran Gurudwara Sahib is facilitating the return of the Sikh families. Meanwhile, Iran has requested New Delhi to allow the country's citizens who are stranded in India to be be taken back in special Iranian flights. "Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel," Iran's Embassy said on Twitter. #Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel.#coronavirus pic.twitter.com/00MjPytCyN — Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) February 29, 2020 ×

India to evacuate citizens from Iran over coronavirus fears

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today.

Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned &amp; Afghan controlled peace &amp; reconciliation process.&nbsp;

In November 2018, India sent two retired diplomats -- former envoy to Kabul Kumar Sinha and former high commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan -- to the Afghan peace conference. The duo represented New Delhi at the Moscow talks but with a disclaimer that they were representing on 'non-official' level.

That was a major departure from India's gameplan in the war-torn country.

It was the first time India shared a table with the Taliban and now India has been officially invited to the signing of the peace deal.

India has always refused to engage or negotiate with the Taliban. In the past, for strategic purposes, India sided with other forces.

In the 1980s India formed a failed alliance with the Afghan communists alongside the Soviet Union. A similarly futile effort in the 1990s saw it backing the so-called northern alliance with the support from Iran and Russia.

The northern alliance fought a defensive war against the Taliban government-backed by Pakistan, which ended with the US invasion and its dissolution.

Since 2001, under the security umbrella of US-led NATO forces, India has built a sizeable developmental and considerable intelligence footprint.

Today, India values its role as a constructive regional player helping Afghanistan in political, military and economic terms.

India has pumped in more than $2 billion in aid and infrastructural development and has reopened consulates across the country. While it does not have the financial resources like the US to support state-building, India needs to protect its presence and interests.

And for that, it has to deal with the Taliban.

India is at a crossroads in its foreign policy strategy in Afghanistan.

That which was considered mainstream has now been relegated to the sidelines.

And that which was on the fringes is now set to become a mainstay.

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned & Afghan controlled peace & reconciliation process.

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned & Afghan controlled peace & reconciliation process. In November 2018, India sent two retired diplomats -- former envoy to Kabul Kumar Sinha and former high commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan -- to the Afghan peace conference. The duo represented New Delhi at the Moscow talks but with a disclaimer that they were representing on 'non-official' level. That was a major departure from India's gameplan in the war-torn country. It was the first time India shared a table with the Taliban and now India has been officially invited to the signing of the peace deal. India has always refused to engage or negotiate with the Taliban. In the past, for strategic purposes, India sided with other forces. In the 1980s India formed a failed alliance with the Afghan communists alongside the Soviet Union. A similarly futile effort in the 1990s saw it backing the so-called northern alliance with the support from Iran and Russia. The northern alliance fought a defensive war against the Taliban government-backed by Pakistan, which ended with the US invasion and its dissolution. Since 2001, under the security umbrella of US-led NATO forces, India has built a sizeable developmental and considerable intelligence footprint. Today, India values its role as a constructive regional player helping Afghanistan in political, military and economic terms. India has pumped in more than $2 billion in aid and infrastructural development and has reopened consulates across the country. While it does not have the financial resources like the US to support state-building, India needs to protect its presence and interests. And for that, it has to deal with the Taliban. India is at a crossroads in its foreign policy strategy in Afghanistan. That which was considered mainstream has now been relegated to the sidelines. And that which was on the fringes is now set to become a mainstay.

India to be part of historic Afghan peace deal between US and Taliban 

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy.

The government is expected to push its legislative agenda that includes Bills relating to surrogacy and resolution of disputed tax.

Forty-two persons have been killed in violence in Delhi earlier this week and some opposition parties including the Congress have sought the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Congress has accused the Central and Delhi governments of failing to contain the violence that erupted in parts of northeast Delhi.

Sources said a meeting was held at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi on Saturday which discussed party`s strategy to corner the government in Parliament on Delhi violence.

The BJP has accused Congress of "politicising" the violence and said there was "instigation" by opposition leaders to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act.

Congress has also accused the BJP-led government of ruining the Indian economy by its "monumental mismanagement."

Congress leader Anand Sharma said on Saturday the GDP for the third quarter was at 4.7 per cent and it was the seventh consecutive quarter when the GDP has fallen.

The first half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31 with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two houses, saw protests over the CAA.

Apart from Finance Bill 2020, Aircraft (Amendment) Bill and The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Bill were among the legislation introduced in the first half that concluded on February 11.

The government`s legislative agenda for the Budget Session of Parliament includes nearly 45 Bills and seven financial items.

It includes replacing Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 and the Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 with Bills during the session.

The Budget Session is slated to conclude on April 3.

The Union Budget was presented on February 1 and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman replied to the debate on the budget. 
&nbsp;

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy.

The second half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which will begin on Monday, is expected to be stormy with the Congress deciding to attack the government on a range of issues including violence in Delhi and its handling of the economy. The government is expected to push its legislative agenda that includes Bills relating to surrogacy and resolution of disputed tax. Forty-two persons have been killed in violence in Delhi earlier this week and some opposition parties including the Congress have sought the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah. The Congress has accused the Central and Delhi governments of failing to contain the violence that erupted in parts of northeast Delhi. Sources said a meeting was held at the residence of party chief Sonia Gandhi on Saturday which discussed party`s strategy to corner the government in Parliament on Delhi violence. The BJP has accused Congress of "politicising" the violence and said there was "instigation" by opposition leaders to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act. Congress has also accused the BJP-led government of ruining the Indian economy by its "monumental mismanagement." Congress leader Anand Sharma said on Saturday the GDP for the third quarter was at 4.7 per cent and it was the seventh consecutive quarter when the GDP has fallen. The first half of the Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31 with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two houses, saw protests over the CAA. Apart from Finance Bill 2020, Aircraft (Amendment) Bill and The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Bill were among the legislation introduced in the first half that concluded on February 11. The government`s legislative agenda for the Budget Session of Parliament includes nearly 45 Bills and seven financial items. It includes replacing Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 and the Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 with Bills during the session. The Budget Session is slated to conclude on April 3. The Union Budget was presented on February 1 and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman replied to the debate on the budget.

Second half of Budget Session begins Monday, expected to be stormy

These cases were filed in the Supreme Court following the Narendra Modi government's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution and scrap the special status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year.

Will Article 370 be heard by larger bench?

Thirteen cases were registered on Saturday against the accounts operating from different platforms including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for posting provocative content in connection with Delhi violence which erupted on February 23.

According to the Delhi Police, several accounts and web links involved in the circulation of unlawful, offensive content have been either suspended or removed.

Advisories on both social media and print media have been issued to sensitize people about responsible usage of online platforms."No PCR call of violence received today, Delhi Police said.

Moreover, people have also been advised to maintain restraint while using social media platforms for sharing such content.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police said, "167 FIRs have registered and 885 persons have been either detained or arrested so far. Additionally, 36 cases of arms act have been registered."

Forty-two people died and over 200 were injured in violence in Delhi over the past few days. There was also damage to property. 
&nbsp;

Thirteen cases were registered on Saturday against the accounts operating from different platforms including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for posting provocative content in connection with Delhi violence which erupted on February 23.

Thirteen cases were registered on Saturday against the accounts operating from different platforms including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for posting provocative content in connection with Delhi violence which erupted on February 23. According to the Delhi Police, several accounts and web links involved in the circulation of unlawful, offensive content have been either suspended or removed. Advisories on both social media and print media have been issued to sensitize people about responsible usage of online platforms."No PCR call of violence received today, Delhi Police said. Moreover, people have also been advised to maintain restraint while using social media platforms for sharing such content. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police said, "167 FIRs have registered and 885 persons have been either detained or arrested so far. Additionally, 36 cases of arms act have been registered." Forty-two people died and over 200 were injured in violence in Delhi over the past few days. There was also damage to property.

Delhi violence: 13 cases registered for posting provocative content on social media

The Huddle: Conversations for change | WION Live | WION News A conclave with leaders across politics, business, academics, sports, and the arts!

The Huddle: Conversations for change | WION Live | WION News

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-sign-historic-afghan-peace-deal-in-doha-america-to-withdraw-troops-within-14-months-283481">signing of the landmark deal</a> between the United States and Taliban insurgents.

"India's consistent policy is to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan," MEA said in an official statement.

"We note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements," the statement read.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-state-secretary-pompeo-sees-significant-reduction-in-afghanistan-violence-283394">US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence</a>

The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation.

While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated.

The deal was signed in the Qatari capital Doha by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was on hand to witness the ceremony.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said that while the accord would be a good step, the road ahead would not be easy.

Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal.

 
&nbsp;

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the signing of the landmark deal between the United States and Taliban insurgents.

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the signing of the landmark deal between the United States and Taliban insurgents. "India's consistent policy is to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan," MEA said in an official statement. "We note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements," the statement read. Also read: US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation. While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated. The deal was signed in the Qatari capital Doha by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was on hand to witness the ceremony. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said that while the accord would be a good step, the road ahead would not be easy. Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal.

Will continue to extend all support to Afghanistan government, its people: India on historic peace deal

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-future-in-the-balance-as-us-taliban-sign-deal-283420">Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal</a>

<img alt="Peace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d84e3796-8a31-4825-9e7d-578d3674f722" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_14.jpg" />

The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-turmoil-takes-new-twist-as-mahathir-and-anwar-ally-again-283421">Malaysian turmoil takes new twist as Mahathir and Anwar ally again</a>

<img alt="Malaysia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="997ccabd-4f33-4823-a5cf-a8815d4329af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_14.jpg" />

Mahathir has thus secured the likely support he needs to return as prime minister full-time, less than a week after he resigned and was appointed as interim leader.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-faces-global-criticism-over-its-handling-of-coronavirus-outbreak-283422">Iran faces global criticism over its handling of coronavirus outbreak</a>

<img alt="Iran " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71e1df47-2bf7-46d5-9987-ee672c8db98b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_22.jpg" />

A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal. Malaysian turmoil takes new twist as Mahathir and Anwar ally again Mahathir has thus secured the likely support he needs to return as prime minister full-time, less than a week after he resigned and was appointed as interim leader. Iran faces global criticism over its handling of coronavirus outbreak A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people.

Morning News Brief: Afghan peace deal, Malaysian turmoil, and more

Some signs of normalcy returned to riot-hit areas of northeast Delhi on Saturday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-to-issue-whatsapp-number-for-complaints-regarding-hate-material-being-circulated-283453">people stepped out of their homes</a> to buy groceries and medicines from a few shops that opened amid intensified patrolling by security personnel.

Since early morning, civic workers were seen clearing roads of bricks, glass shards and burnt vehicles in the aftermath of the violence that left 42 dead and over 200 injured. At some places, even bulldozers were used as it became difficult to manually remove debris.

In Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Yamuna Vihar, Chand Bagh, Mustafabad and Bhajanpura, which were among the areas worst hit by the communal violence, there were more vehicles and people on the roads than in the last five days.

Personnel from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces encouraged people to open their shops and appealed for peace and communal harmony. They started their march at Jaffrabad and moved through Maujpur and then into the narrow lanes of Noor-e-Ilahi, Yamuna Vihar and Bhajanpura, areas where mobs ran riot vandalising shops, houses and torching vehicles early this week.

Schools in northeast Delhi still remain closed.

"It is only the smaller shops that have opened today. The bigger shops and showrooms have still not opened and their owners are being cautious," a showroom owner, whose property was attacked during the riots, told PTI.

Shakib, a resident of Noor-e-Ilahi, said people selling vegetables on carts made rounds of colonies. "Not many, only a couple of them could be seen. The rates are still a little high than the usual, but at least they have resumed sale," he said.

Yamuna Vihar resident Amit Tanwar said the situation has improved and grocery stores and other shops opened during the day.

However, some establishments like restaurants are still not open as their workers have not come to work, he added.

Officials on Saturday said schools will remain closed in northeast Delhi till March 7 in view of the violence. The annual exams have also been postponed since the situation is not conducive for conducting examinations in the violence-affected areas, they said.

Sources said the Delhi government is considering to issue a WhatsApp number for people to report circulation of provocative messages and take complaints on those spreading rumours.

Among the several houses torched by rioters was that of Border Security Force (BSF) Constable Mohammad Anees, who is currently posted at a camp of the force the in West Bengal's Radhabari. The BSF has decided to rebuild his house and hand it over to him as a 'wedding gift'.

At the Guru Tegh Bahadur (GTB) Hospital people are still frantically searching for their loved ones, either in the casualty ward or at the mortuary.

Forty-eight-year-old Madeena, whose son has been missing since Tuesday following the violence, has been running to police stations to find if he is still alive.

"I have been going to police stations. There is no trace of him. I don't know if he is alive or not. Even if he is found here (at the mortuary) among the dead, I will get a closure at least.

Otherwise I will live in hopes forever that he will come home some day," she said.

Mohammad Qadir from Bijnor, who has been visiting the GTB Hospital since Wednesday, is looking for his 18-year-old brother Aftab.

"He had gone to meet his friends that day. His friends told me that they were attacked by a mob, while they managed to escape, he was beaten up badly," he said.

BJP leader Kapil Mishra, who is facing flak for allegedly making provocative statements before communal riots broke out in northeast Delhi, and families of some of the victims of the

violence participated in a "march against jihadi terrorism" taken out in Connaught Place on Saturday during which some people raised slogans of 'shoot the traitors'.

Some signs of normalcy returned to riot-hit areas of northeast Delhi on Saturday as people stepped out of their homes to buy groceries and medicines from a few shops that opened amid intensified patrolling by security personnel.

Some signs of normalcy returned to riot-hit areas of northeast Delhi on Saturday as people stepped out of their homes to buy groceries and medicines from a few shops that opened amid intensified patrolling by security personnel. Since early morning, civic workers were seen clearing roads of bricks, glass shards and burnt vehicles in the aftermath of the violence that left 42 dead and over 200 injured. At some places, even bulldozers were used as it became difficult to manually remove debris. In Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Yamuna Vihar, Chand Bagh, Mustafabad and Bhajanpura, which were among the areas worst hit by the communal violence, there were more vehicles and people on the roads than in the last five days. Personnel from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces encouraged people to open their shops and appealed for peace and communal harmony. They started their march at Jaffrabad and moved through Maujpur and then into the narrow lanes of Noor-e-Ilahi, Yamuna Vihar and Bhajanpura, areas where mobs ran riot vandalising shops, houses and torching vehicles early this week. Schools in northeast Delhi still remain closed. "It is only the smaller shops that have opened today. The bigger shops and showrooms have still not opened and their owners are being cautious," a showroom owner, whose property was attacked during the riots, told PTI. Shakib, a resident of Noor-e-Ilahi, said people selling vegetables on carts made rounds of colonies. "Not many, only a couple of them could be seen. The rates are still a little high than the usual, but at least they have resumed sale," he said. Yamuna Vihar resident Amit Tanwar said the situation has improved and grocery stores and other shops opened during the day. However, some establishments like restaurants are still not open as their workers have not come to work, he added. Officials on Saturday said schools will remain closed in northeast Delhi till March 7 in view of the violence. The annual exams have also been postponed since the situation is not conducive for conducting examinations in the violence-affected areas, they said. Sources said the Delhi government is considering to issue a WhatsApp number for people to report circulation of provocative messages and take complaints on those spreading rumours. Among the several houses torched by rioters was that of Border Security Force (BSF) Constable Mohammad Anees, who is currently posted at a camp of the force the in West Bengal's Radhabari. The BSF has decided to rebuild his house and hand it over to him as a 'wedding gift'. At the Guru Tegh Bahadur (GTB) Hospital people are still frantically searching for their loved ones, either in the casualty ward or at the mortuary. Forty-eight-year-old Madeena, whose son has been missing since Tuesday following the violence, has been running to police stations to find if he is still alive. "I have been going to police stations. There is no trace of him. I don't know if he is alive or not. Even if he is found here (at the mortuary) among the dead, I will get a closure at least. Otherwise I will live in hopes forever that he will come home some day," she said. Mohammad Qadir from Bijnor, who has been visiting the GTB Hospital since Wednesday, is looking for his 18-year-old brother Aftab. "He had gone to meet his friends that day. His friends told me that they were attacked by a mob, while they managed to escape, he was beaten up badly," he said. BJP leader Kapil Mishra, who is facing flak for allegedly making provocative statements before communal riots broke out in northeast Delhi, and families of some of the victims of the violence participated in a "march against jihadi terrorism" taken out in Connaught Place on Saturday during which some people raised slogans of 'shoot the traitors'.

Situation returning to normal in riot-hit northeast Delhi, some shops reopen

The Delhi government is set to launch a WhatsApp number on which complaints can be lodged against hate material being circulated following the recent violence in North East Delhi, government sources said on Saturday.

"There is a lot of hate material being circulated on WhatsApp. If anyone receives any such material, he/she should immediately file a complaint with Delhi Govt. The Delhi government will issue a WhatsApp number on which such complaints can be made," Delhi government sources said. They added that an official will screen all the complaints received and the complaints which are genuine would then be forwarded to the police for necessary action.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-violence-630-arrests-123-firs-registered-says-police-283409"> Delhi violence: 630 arrests, 123 FIRs registered, says police</a>

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had on Friday said that there is apparent peace in North-East Delhi but there is still need to maintain vigil. "I have reviewed the situation with all the senior officers and commissioners. There seems to be peace and quiet apparently now. But there is still a need to maintain vigil. So I have advised the forces to maintain vigil. Whenever necessary we will try to facilitate that people could come and buy the essential commodities in the area," Baijal told reporters.

"I am happy to see that at a lot of places, people are organizing yatra and living together. People are talking among themselves and are happy. There is an improvement and we will ensure that everyone lives together," he added.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-supreme-court-judges-infected-with-swine-flu-cji-bobde-suggests-lawyers-to-be-vaccinated-282742">Six Supreme Court judges infected with swine flu, CJI Bobde suggests lawyers to be vaccinated</a>

At least 42 people, including a police head constable, have died while around 200 people have been injured in the violence that rocked North-East Delhi for at least three days since Sunday. Two Special Investigative Teams (SITs) have been constituted under Crime Branch, Delhi Police to probe the violence.

The Delhi government is set to launch a WhatsApp number on which complaints can be lodged against hate material being circulated following the recent violence in North East Delhi, government sources said on Saturday.

The Delhi government is set to launch a WhatsApp number on which complaints can be lodged against hate material being circulated following the recent violence in North East Delhi, government sources said on Saturday. "There is a lot of hate material being circulated on WhatsApp. If anyone receives any such material, he/she should immediately file a complaint with Delhi Govt. The Delhi government will issue a WhatsApp number on which such complaints can be made," Delhi government sources said. They added that an official will screen all the complaints received and the complaints which are genuine would then be forwarded to the police for necessary action. Also read: Delhi violence: 630 arrests, 123 FIRs registered, says police Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had on Friday said that there is apparent peace in North-East Delhi but there is still need to maintain vigil. "I have reviewed the situation with all the senior officers and commissioners. There seems to be peace and quiet apparently now. But there is still a need to maintain vigil. So I have advised the forces to maintain vigil. Whenever necessary we will try to facilitate that people could come and buy the essential commodities in the area," Baijal told reporters. "I am happy to see that at a lot of places, people are organizing yatra and living together. People are talking among themselves and are happy. There is an improvement and we will ensure that everyone lives together," he added. Also see: Six Supreme Court judges infected with swine flu, CJI Bobde suggests lawyers to be vaccinated At least 42 people, including a police head constable, have died while around 200 people have been injured in the violence that rocked North-East Delhi for at least three days since Sunday. Two Special Investigative Teams (SITs) have been constituted under Crime Branch, Delhi Police to probe the violence.

Delhi government to issue WhatsApp number for complaints regarding 'hate material' being circulated

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">The Maharashtra government on Saturday appointed Senior IPS Officer Param Bir Singh as the new Police Commissioner of Mumbai.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
Singh, a 1988-batch officer and former Thane Police Commissioner, replaces Sanjay Barve, who retires on Saturday.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
Before being appointed as the Mumbai police chief, Singh was posted as the Director General (DG) of the Maharashtra Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB).</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-mumbai-airport-starts-screening-passengers-arriving-from-malaysia-indonesia-vietnam-and-nepal-282166">Coronavirus: Mumbai airport starts screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal</a> 
&nbsp;</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">Bipin K Singh, the Additional Director General (ADG) of the ACB, has now been given the additional charge as the DG of the anti-graft agency. A 1990-batch IPS officer, Bipin Singh has been awarded President Police Medal.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
In December last year, the ACB headed by Param Bir Singh had given a clean chit to NCP leader Ajit Pawar, who is currently the state deputy chief minister, in connection with alleged scam involving 12 Vidarbha Irrigation Development Corporation (VIDC) projects.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
In the past, Param Bir Singh had held several key positions in the police department. He had served as Thane police commissioner, DCP in several important zones in Mumbai, and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Chandrapur and Bhandara districts, a statement said.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rupee-plunges-63-paise-to-nearly-6-month-low-as-covid-19-spreads-around-globe-283418"> Rupee plunges 63 paise to nearly 6-month low as COVID-19 spreads around globe&nbsp;</a> 
&nbsp;</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)">He had also served as the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) in the state, it added.</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
In a video message posted on Twitter, state Home Minister Anil Deshmukh said, "Mumbai police commissioner Sanjay Barve is retiring today. Singh has been named as his successor. This announcement has been made after discussion with the honourable chief minister."</div>

<div style="font-family:Calibri,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12pt;color:rgb(0,0,0)"> 
Earlier in the day, outgoing Mumbai police commissioner Sanjay Barve was given a farewell by his colleagues at Naigaon police headquarters here. 
Barve, who had taken charge as the commissioner in February last year, had got two extensions, first in August and then in November.&nbsp;</div>

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— ANIL DESHMUKH (@AnilDeshmukhNCP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilDeshmukhNCP/status/1233653609700741126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Maharashtra government on Saturday appointed Senior IPS Officer Param Bir Singh as the new Police Commissioner of Mumbai. Singh, a 1988-batch officer and former Thane Police Commissioner, replaces Sanjay Barve, who retires on Saturday.

The Maharashtra government on Saturday appointed Senior IPS Officer Param Bir Singh as the new Police Commissioner of Mumbai. Singh, a 1988-batch officer and former Thane Police Commissioner, replaces Sanjay Barve, who retires on Saturday. Before being appointed as the Mumbai police chief, Singh was posted as the Director General (DG) of the Maharashtra Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB). Also read: Coronavirus: Mumbai airport starts screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal Bipin K Singh, the Additional Director General (ADG) of the ACB, has now been given the additional charge as the DG of the anti-graft agency. A 1990-batch IPS officer, Bipin Singh has been awarded President Police Medal. In December last year, the ACB headed by Param Bir Singh had given a clean chit to NCP leader Ajit Pawar, who is currently the state deputy chief minister, in connection with alleged scam involving 12 Vidarbha Irrigation Development Corporation (VIDC) projects. In the past, Param Bir Singh had held several key positions in the police department. He had served as Thane police commissioner, DCP in several important zones in Mumbai, and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Chandrapur and Bhandara districts, a statement said. Also see: Rupee plunges 63 paise to nearly 6-month low as COVID-19 spreads around globe He had also served as the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) in the state, it added. In a video message posted on Twitter, state Home Minister Anil Deshmukh said, "Mumbai police commissioner Sanjay Barve is retiring today. Singh has been named as his successor. This announcement has been made after discussion with the honourable chief minister." Earlier in the day, outgoing Mumbai police commissioner Sanjay Barve was given a farewell by his colleagues at Naigaon police headquarters here. Barve, who had taken charge as the commissioner in February last year, had got two extensions, first in August and then in November. pic.twitter.com/NXN6xy3KZe — ANIL DESHMUKH (@AnilDeshmukhNCP) February 29, 2020 ×

Param Bir Singh appointed as the new Mumbai Police Commissioner

India has successfully completed two rescue missions. Over 200 people have been brought back from two hotspots of the Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak. This report has the details.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak, India evacuates over 200 people

The US-Taliban peace deal is being seen as a step towards restoring peace. But the people in Afghanistan are skeptical. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: US-Taliban Peace deal, Afghans are skeptical

Pawan Gupta, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, on Friday filed a curative petition before the Supreme Court seeking to have his death sentence commuted to life imprisonment.

Gupta is the fourth convict in the case to file a curative petition.

This comes as a fresh death warrant has been issued for the four death row convicts -- Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh Singh -- in the case for their hanging at 6 am on March 3.

The family of the victim has on several occasions accused the defence of using delay tactics by separately filing the curative, special leave and mercy petitions.

The Delhi High Court has ruled that according to existing laws, the convicts cannot be executed separately.

Which means that as long as even one of them has a legal remedy at his disposal, the hanging of the four cannot take place.

Meanwhile, the apex court has slated for March 5 hearing on a petition, filed by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, seeking directions to execute the death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gangrape and murder case separately.

The case pertains to the brutal gang rape and killing of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi.

The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.&nbsp;

Pawan Gupta, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, on Friday filed a curative petition before the Supreme Court seeking to have his death sentence commuted to life imprisonment.

Pawan Gupta, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, on Friday filed a curative petition before the Supreme Court seeking to have his death sentence commuted to life imprisonment. Gupta is the fourth convict in the case to file a curative petition. This comes as a fresh death warrant has been issued for the four death row convicts -- Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh Singh -- in the case for their hanging at 6 am on March 3. The family of the victim has on several occasions accused the defence of using delay tactics by separately filing the curative, special leave and mercy petitions. The Delhi High Court has ruled that according to existing laws, the convicts cannot be executed separately. Which means that as long as even one of them has a legal remedy at his disposal, the hanging of the four cannot take place. Meanwhile, the apex court has slated for March 5 hearing on a petition, filed by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, seeking directions to execute the death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gangrape and murder case separately. The case pertains to the brutal gang rape and killing of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.

Nirbhaya case: Convict Pawan Gupta files curative petition in Supreme Court

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