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Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case.

Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter.

"It is the fittest case to reject the mercy petition, keeping in view the heinous and gravest crime of extreme brutality committed by the applicant," ACS (Home), Delhi government, observed.

"This is the most heinous crime of extreme brutality committed by the applicant. This is the case where exemplary punishment should be given to deter others from committing such atrocious crimes. There is no merit in the mercy petition and is strongly recommended for rejection," Satyendar Jain, Home Minister of Delhi, said.

The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government. 
&nbsp;

Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case. Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter.

Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case. Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter. "It is the fittest case to reject the mercy petition, keeping in view the heinous and gravest crime of extreme brutality committed by the applicant," ACS (Home), Delhi government, observed. "This is the most heinous crime of extreme brutality committed by the applicant. This is the case where exemplary punishment should be given to deter others from committing such atrocious crimes. There is no merit in the mercy petition and is strongly recommended for rejection," Satyendar Jain, Home Minister of Delhi, said. The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government.

Delhi government recommends rejection of mercy petition of a convict in Nirbhaya case

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman <a href="David Warner hits magical triple century as Australia put up mammoth score against Pakistan">David Warner </a>was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score.

Warner had played an unbeaten knock of 335 runs against Pakistan in the ongoing day-night Test at Adelaide and was on course to break Lara's individual score of 400. It was then that Australia's skipper Tim Paine decided to declare the innings.

Tharoor posted two tweets to give his take on the decision to declare by Tim Paine."This summer, David Warner made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week &amp; followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity," Tharoor said in a tweet.

In another tweet, the Congress leader said: "Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &amp; statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag &amp; victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?"

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This summer, <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week &amp; followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1200996362268995585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Warner was able to score just 95 runs in the Ashes this year, but ever since then, he has been in remarkable form. The left-handed batsman played a knock of 154 in the first Test and he followed it up with a score of 335 not out.

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Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &amp;statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag &amp; victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1200996962209689602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the ongoing Test, Warner broke several records. He surpassed Mark Taylor and Don Bradman to record the second-highest individual score for Australia in Tests. Warner also went past Bradman to record the highest-ever individual score at the Adelaide Oval. He is now the only Australian to have scored two 250+ plus scores in Tests.&nbsp;

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman David Warner was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score.

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman David Warner was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score. Warner had played an unbeaten knock of 335 runs against Pakistan in the ongoing day-night Test at Adelaide and was on course to break Lara's individual score of 400. It was then that Australia's skipper Tim Paine decided to declare the innings. Tharoor posted two tweets to give his take on the decision to declare by Tim Paine."This summer, David Warner made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week & followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity," Tharoor said in a tweet. In another tweet, the Congress leader said: "Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures & statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag & victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?" This summer, @davidwarner31 made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week & followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 1, 2019 × Warner was able to score just 95 runs in the Ashes this year, but ever since then, he has been in remarkable form. The left-handed batsman played a knock of 154 in the first Test and he followed it up with a score of 335 not out. Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag & victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare? — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 1, 2019 × In the ongoing Test, Warner broke several records. He surpassed Mark Taylor and Don Bradman to record the second-highest individual score for Australia in Tests. Warner also went past Bradman to record the highest-ever individual score at the Adelaide Oval. He is now the only Australian to have scored two 250+ plus scores in Tests.

Shashi Tharoor slams Australia decision to declare innings as David Warner misses chance to break world record

India has become the first country in the world which has made the entire Haj 2020 process 100 per cent digital, said Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Sunday.

His comments came after the minister signed the bilateral agreement for the pilgrimage with the Saudi Haj Minister Dr Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten in Jeddah.

Naqvi said, "An online application, e-visa, Haj mobile app, 'e-MASIHA'&nbsp;health facility, "e-luggage pre-tagging" providing all information in India itself regarding accommodation and transportation in Mecca and Madina will be provided to 2 lakh Indian Muslims going for Haj in 2020."

Adding that that for the first time facilities have been provided for digital pre-tagging of the baggage of pilgrims, the minister said, "This will ensure the Indian pilgrims will get information in India itself about building along with the room allotted to the pilgrims and transportation like details of the bus to be taken by the pilgrims after reaching to the airport in Saudi Arabia."

Naqvi said that this year, a 100 line information centre has been established at Haj House, Mumbai for providing information regarding the entire Haj process.

The minister further said that while on one hand health card is being provided to Indian Haj pilgrims in the country, on the other hand, "E-MASIHA" (E-Medical Assistance System for Indian Pilgrims Abroad), an online system to create and maintain the complete health database of Indian pilgrims along with doctors'&nbsp;prescriptions, medical treatment as well as medicine disbursals, has been developed to deal any emergency in Mecca-Madina.

"Haj Group Organisers (HGOs) have also been connected with 100 per cent digital system which has ensured transparency in their functioning and it has also ensured better facilities to Indian Haj pilgrims. For the first time, a portal of HGOs (Portal for Haj Group Organisers) has been developed which contains all the details of HGOs, their packages etc," he added.

Adding that the Ministry of Minority Affairs has taken effective and successful steps during last about 4 years to make Haj and other programmes completely digital/online as a part of Digital India Campaign of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the minister said, "Making the entire Haj 2020 process 100 per cent digital has helped in providing better facilities to people going for Haj and ensured transparency by eliminating middlemen."

In 2020, a total of 2 lakh Indian Muslims will perform Haj that too without any subsidy, he added.

"Online Haj applications received till November 30 include about 15,000 online Haj applications from Jammu and Kashmir. The last date of submission of Haj application is December 5," he said.

He added that India-Saudi Arabia relations have achieved newer heights under the leadership and guidance of Saudi Arabia King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

India has become the first country in the world which has made the entire Haj 2020 process 100 per cent digital, said Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Sunday.

India has become the first country in the world which has made the entire Haj 2020 process 100 per cent digital, said Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Sunday. His comments came after the minister signed the bilateral agreement for the pilgrimage with the Saudi Haj Minister Dr Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten in Jeddah. Naqvi said, "An online application, e-visa, Haj mobile app, 'e-MASIHA' health facility, "e-luggage pre-tagging" providing all information in India itself regarding accommodation and transportation in Mecca and Madina will be provided to 2 lakh Indian Muslims going for Haj in 2020." Adding that that for the first time facilities have been provided for digital pre-tagging of the baggage of pilgrims, the minister said, "This will ensure the Indian pilgrims will get information in India itself about building along with the room allotted to the pilgrims and transportation like details of the bus to be taken by the pilgrims after reaching to the airport in Saudi Arabia." Naqvi said that this year, a 100 line information centre has been established at Haj House, Mumbai for providing information regarding the entire Haj process. The minister further said that while on one hand health card is being provided to Indian Haj pilgrims in the country, on the other hand, "E-MASIHA" (E-Medical Assistance System for Indian Pilgrims Abroad), an online system to create and maintain the complete health database of Indian pilgrims along with doctors' prescriptions, medical treatment as well as medicine disbursals, has been developed to deal any emergency in Mecca-Madina. "Haj Group Organisers (HGOs) have also been connected with 100 per cent digital system which has ensured transparency in their functioning and it has also ensured better facilities to Indian Haj pilgrims. For the first time, a portal of HGOs (Portal for Haj Group Organisers) has been developed which contains all the details of HGOs, their packages etc," he added. Adding that the Ministry of Minority Affairs has taken effective and successful steps during last about 4 years to make Haj and other programmes completely digital/online as a part of Digital India Campaign of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the minister said, "Making the entire Haj 2020 process 100 per cent digital has helped in providing better facilities to people going for Haj and ensured transparency by eliminating middlemen." In 2020, a total of 2 lakh Indian Muslims will perform Haj that too without any subsidy, he added. "Online Haj applications received till November 30 include about 15,000 online Haj applications from Jammu and Kashmir. The last date of submission of Haj application is December 5," he said. He added that India-Saudi Arabia relations have achieved newer heights under the leadership and guidance of Saudi Arabia King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi.

India becomes first country to make entire Haj 2020 process digital: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday said that he has ordered to withdraw all cases filed against environmentalists during the agitations against the construction of Aarey metro car shed.

"I have ordered to take back the cases filed against many environmentalists, during the agitation against Aarey metro car shed work. There will be no more cases against anyone now," Chief Minister Thackeray told reporters.

Earlier on Friday, an order to stop the work on the Aarey metro car shed project was passed by the new stated government-led by Chief Minister Thackeray.

"I have ordered to stop the work of Aarey metro car shed project today. Metro work will not stop but till next decision, not a single leaf of Aarey will be cut," he had said at a press conference.

Back in October, the felling of trees in the Aarey Colony had drawn a wedge between former allies BJP and Shiv Sena, with then Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis pushing for the project and Thackeray-led party coming out in protest against the proposed car shed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday said that he has ordered to withdraw all cases filed against environmentalists during the agitations against the construction of Aarey metro car shed.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday said that he has ordered to withdraw all cases filed against environmentalists during the agitations against the construction of Aarey metro car shed. "I have ordered to take back the cases filed against many environmentalists, during the agitation against Aarey metro car shed work. There will be no more cases against anyone now," Chief Minister Thackeray told reporters. Earlier on Friday, an order to stop the work on the Aarey metro car shed project was passed by the new stated government-led by Chief Minister Thackeray. "I have ordered to stop the work of Aarey metro car shed project today. Metro work will not stop but till next decision, not a single leaf of Aarey will be cut," he had said at a press conference. Back in October, the felling of trees in the Aarey Colony had drawn a wedge between former allies BJP and Shiv Sena, with then Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis pushing for the project and Thackeray-led party coming out in protest against the proposed car shed.

All cases registered against Aarey metro car shed agitators will be withdrawn: Uddhav Thackeray

The Indian Army gave a befitting reply to the Pakistani ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) on Saturday, retaliating with 82 mm mortar rounds.

Army sources said the Indian Army gave "a strong reply to ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army in Qasba and Shahpur areas" along the Line of Control in the Poonch sector.

Indian Army retaliated with 82 mm mortar rounds against Pakistani positions firing on Indian positions.

At about 1600 hours Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars along the Line of Control (LoC) in Shahpur and Qasba sectors.

Pakistan Army spokesperson, in a tweet from the official handle, claimed that two of its officers had been injured in the firing by Indian Army in Rakhchikri, Rawalakot sector along the LoC.

There have been 950 incidents of CFVs along the Line of Control (LoC) and 79 incidents of CFVs along the International Border (IB) in Jammu region during the last three months (August to October), Centre had informed the Rajya Sabha recently.

Appropriate retaliation to the ceasefire violations, as required, has been carried out by the Indian Army.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Indian Army gave a befitting reply to the Pakistani ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) on Saturday, retaliating with 82 mm mortar rounds. Army sources said the Indian Army gave "a strong reply to ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army in Qasba and Shahpur areas" along the Line of Control in the Poonch sector.

The Indian Army gave a befitting reply to the Pakistani ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) on Saturday, retaliating with 82 mm mortar rounds. Army sources said the Indian Army gave "a strong reply to ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army in Qasba and Shahpur areas" along the Line of Control in the Poonch sector. Indian Army retaliated with 82 mm mortar rounds against Pakistani positions firing on Indian positions. At about 1600 hours Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing of small arms and shelling with mortars along the Line of Control (LoC) in Shahpur and Qasba sectors. Pakistan Army spokesperson, in a tweet from the official handle, claimed that two of its officers had been injured in the firing by Indian Army in Rakhchikri, Rawalakot sector along the LoC. There have been 950 incidents of CFVs along the Line of Control (LoC) and 79 incidents of CFVs along the International Border (IB) in Jammu region during the last three months (August to October), Centre had informed the Rajya Sabha recently. Appropriate retaliation to the ceasefire violations, as required, has been carried out by the Indian Army.

Ceasefire violation: Army retaliates with 82 mm mortar rounds on Pakistani firing positions

Hyderabad's Nirbhaya has left India seething again. The rape and murder of 27-yr old send shockwaves to the nation. More Nirbhaya, every day, every hour?

India: Rape & murder of 27-year-old sends shockwaves

On the occasion of BSF Raising Day, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ties-with-japan-key-component-of-indias-vision-for-stability-in-indo-pacific-pm-modi-265476">Narendra Modi </a>has extended greetings to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-bsf-troops-spot-multiple-drones-coming-from-pakistan-side-257467">Border Security Force </a>personnel for diligently protecting the borders.

Taking to Twitter, Modi on Sunday tweeted, "Greetings to all BSF personnel and their families on BSF's Raising Day. This force has been diligently protecting our borders. During natural disasters and crisis situations, BSF personnel have always worked hard to serve our citizens. Best wishes to the BSF family!"

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Greetings to all BSF personnel and their families on BSF’s Raising Day. This force has been diligently protecting our borders. During natural disasters and crisis situations, BSF personnel have always worked hard to serve our citizens. 
 
Best wishes to the BSF family!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1200971503962951681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BSF established on December 1, 1965, is a paramilitary force charged with guarding India's land border during peacetime and preventing transnational crime. It is under the administrative control of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It currently stands as the world's largest border guarding force.&nbsp;

On the occasion of BSF Raising Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended greetings to Border Security Force personnel for diligently protecting the borders.

On the occasion of BSF Raising Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended greetings to Border Security Force personnel for diligently protecting the borders. Taking to Twitter, Modi on Sunday tweeted, "Greetings to all BSF personnel and their families on BSF's Raising Day. This force has been diligently protecting our borders. During natural disasters and crisis situations, BSF personnel have always worked hard to serve our citizens. Best wishes to the BSF family!" Greetings to all BSF personnel and their families on BSF’s Raising Day. This force has been diligently protecting our borders. During natural disasters and crisis situations, BSF personnel have always worked hard to serve our citizens. Best wishes to the BSF family! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 1, 2019 × BSF established on December 1, 1965, is a paramilitary force charged with guarding India's land border during peacetime and preventing transnational crime. It is under the administrative control of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It currently stands as the world's largest border guarding force.

PM Narendra Modi wishes BSF personnel on Raising Day

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-completely-uproot-naxalism-in-jharkhand-amit-shah-265107">Amit Shah </a>on Saturday said that the Indian economy has moved from the era of policy paralysis, scams and corruption pre-2014 to an era of bold, transparent and decisive decision-making under the Narendra Modi government since 2014.

"Indian Economy has moved from the era of policy paralysis, scams and corruption pre-2014 to one of the era of bold, transparent and decisive decision-making under Narendra Modi Government since 2014," Shah said in an address at the reputed English Daily Awards for Corporate Excellence in Mumbai.

Shah asserted that the current slowdown in economy is a "temporary phase" and the Indian industry which contributes 60 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) to the economy will join with the vision of Modi government to make India a 5 trillion-dollar economy by 2024.

Expressing hope that the Indian industry and market will tide over this temporary crisis despite a slowdown, the home minister assured the industry that the "government is standing solidly behind them and is tackling all the challenges in a proactive fashion".

He said that the last 5 years were of the "detoxification of the economy" and in the next five years a "series of reforms" will be taken to make it one of the most powerful economies of the world.

"India is already a destination of global companies due to its huge market and FDI is at record level today. Even Sensex and nifty have breached all records," Shah added.

The home minister said that the government is committed to strengthening the industry and the trade and said: "By lowering the corporate tax ranging between 17 to 25 per cent, India has got the distinction of one of the lowest corporate tax levying country. Even fiscal deficit which was 4.5 per cent in 2013-14 has come down to 3.3 per cent and inflation has been checked at 3.3 per cent from 5.9 per cent earlier."

Emphasising on the goods and services tax (GST) and ease of doing business, he said: "The vision of one nation one tax has been realised and a series of labour reforms are in the offing."

"On the front of ease of doing business, India was at the rank of 142 in 2014 but in the last 5 years we jumped to 77 and expressed hope that by 2024, India will be somewhere at the rank of 30," the union minister said.

Shah said that the decision to not join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was taken in the interest of the industry as India has already free trade agreement (FTA) with China, Australia and New Zealand. "The Modi government has taken the hard decision in the interest of Indian industry," he said.

Referring to a series of measures taken in the field of infrastructure both in the rural and urban areas, he said that the Make in India and Start-up India projects are going to scale new heights in years to come. Stating that India voted to power Narendra Modi in 2014, he said:

"Not a single corruption charge was leveled against the Modi government. The governance has moved from policy paralysis of pre-2014 to one of bold and decisive government."&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the Indian economy has moved from the era of policy paralysis, scams and corruption pre-2014 to an era of bold, transparent and decisive decision-making under the Narendra Modi government since 2014.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the Indian economy has moved from the era of policy paralysis, scams and corruption pre-2014 to an era of bold, transparent and decisive decision-making under the Narendra Modi government since 2014. "Indian Economy has moved from the era of policy paralysis, scams and corruption pre-2014 to one of the era of bold, transparent and decisive decision-making under Narendra Modi Government since 2014," Shah said in an address at the reputed English Daily Awards for Corporate Excellence in Mumbai. Shah asserted that the current slowdown in economy is a "temporary phase" and the Indian industry which contributes 60 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) to the economy will join with the vision of Modi government to make India a 5 trillion-dollar economy by 2024. Expressing hope that the Indian industry and market will tide over this temporary crisis despite a slowdown, the home minister assured the industry that the "government is standing solidly behind them and is tackling all the challenges in a proactive fashion". He said that the last 5 years were of the "detoxification of the economy" and in the next five years a "series of reforms" will be taken to make it one of the most powerful economies of the world. "India is already a destination of global companies due to its huge market and FDI is at record level today. Even Sensex and nifty have breached all records," Shah added. The home minister said that the government is committed to strengthening the industry and the trade and said: "By lowering the corporate tax ranging between 17 to 25 per cent, India has got the distinction of one of the lowest corporate tax levying country. Even fiscal deficit which was 4.5 per cent in 2013-14 has come down to 3.3 per cent and inflation has been checked at 3.3 per cent from 5.9 per cent earlier." Emphasising on the goods and services tax (GST) and ease of doing business, he said: "The vision of one nation one tax has been realised and a series of labour reforms are in the offing." "On the front of ease of doing business, India was at the rank of 142 in 2014 but in the last 5 years we jumped to 77 and expressed hope that by 2024, India will be somewhere at the rank of 30," the union minister said. Shah said that the decision to not join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was taken in the interest of the industry as India has already free trade agreement (FTA) with China, Australia and New Zealand. "The Modi government has taken the hard decision in the interest of Indian industry," he said. Referring to a series of measures taken in the field of infrastructure both in the rural and urban areas, he said that the Make in India and Start-up India projects are going to scale new heights in years to come. Stating that India voted to power Narendra Modi in 2014, he said: "Not a single corruption charge was leveled against the Modi government. The governance has moved from policy paralysis of pre-2014 to one of bold and decisive government."

Amit Shah says Indian economy moved to 'bold, decisive decision-making', calls current slowdown 'temporary'

The Maharashtra Assembly was adjourned till December 16 on Sunday.

Earlier today, Congress MLA Nana Patole was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly after BJP withdrew its candidate for the post.

The Speaker was elected a day after Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray led Maharasthra Vikas Aghadi won the vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly.

State BJP chief Chandrakant Patil announced the party's decision to take back the nomination of Kisan Kathore for the Assembly Speaker post after an all-party meeting this morning and before the end of the deadline of withdrawal of nomination ended at 10 am.

Barely an hour after the announcement, pro-tem Speaker formally announced Patole's election as the Speaker in the House.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the new Speaker and escorted him to the Speaker's chair to take charge.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Maharashtra Assembly was adjourned till December 16 on Sunday. Earlier today, Congress MLA Nana Patole was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly after BJP withdrew its candidate for the post.

The Maharashtra Assembly was adjourned till December 16 on Sunday. Earlier today, Congress MLA Nana Patole was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly after BJP withdrew its candidate for the post. The Speaker was elected a day after Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray led Maharasthra Vikas Aghadi won the vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly. State BJP chief Chandrakant Patil announced the party's decision to take back the nomination of Kisan Kathore for the Assembly Speaker post after an all-party meeting this morning and before the end of the deadline of withdrawal of nomination ended at 10 am. Barely an hour after the announcement, pro-tem Speaker formally announced Patole's election as the Speaker in the House. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the new Speaker and escorted him to the Speaker's chair to take charge.

Maharashtra legislative Assembly adjourned till December 16

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao on Sunday instructed the setting up of a fast track court to deal with the rape and murder case of the female veterinary doctor and promised stringent punishment for the perpetrators of the ghastly crime.

"The Chief Minister has instructed officials that the accused of the woman veterinary doctor's ghastly murder should be inquired on a fast track basis and the culprits should be given stringent punishment. The Chief Minister also decided to set up a fast track court to deal with the case," according to an official release issued from the office of the Telangana CM.

The release added that the "verdict should come quickly and the Chief Minister announced that the government would extend all necessary help and support to the members of the victim's family."

Four persons have been arrested in the case so far and sent to the judicial remand of 14 days by a local court. The four accused have been identified as Mohammad Areef, Jollu Shiva, Jollu Naveen and Chintakunta Chennakeshavulu.

Earlier on Saturday, three cops were suspended over alleged negligence in filing the FIR in connection with the rape and murder of the veterinarian.

"Sub-inspector M Ravi Kumar and Head Constables P Venu Gopal Reddy and A Sathyanarayana Goud have been placed under suspension till further orders based on the findings of a detailed inquiry," said Cyberabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar.

He said that a detailed inquiry on the dereliction of duty was carried out on Saturday.&nbsp;

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao on Sunday instructed the setting up of a fast track court to deal with the rape and murder case of the female veterinary doctor and promised stringent punishment for the perpetrators of the ghastly crime.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao on Sunday instructed the setting up of a fast track court to deal with the rape and murder case of the female veterinary doctor and promised stringent punishment for the perpetrators of the ghastly crime. "The Chief Minister has instructed officials that the accused of the woman veterinary doctor's ghastly murder should be inquired on a fast track basis and the culprits should be given stringent punishment. The Chief Minister also decided to set up a fast track court to deal with the case," according to an official release issued from the office of the Telangana CM. The release added that the "verdict should come quickly and the Chief Minister announced that the government would extend all necessary help and support to the members of the victim's family." Four persons have been arrested in the case so far and sent to the judicial remand of 14 days by a local court. The four accused have been identified as Mohammad Areef, Jollu Shiva, Jollu Naveen and Chintakunta Chennakeshavulu. Earlier on Saturday, three cops were suspended over alleged negligence in filing the FIR in connection with the rape and murder of the veterinarian. "Sub-inspector M Ravi Kumar and Head Constables P Venu Gopal Reddy and A Sathyanarayana Goud have been placed under suspension till further orders based on the findings of a detailed inquiry," said Cyberabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar. He said that a detailed inquiry on the dereliction of duty was carried out on Saturday.

Telangana: Fast track court to deal with vet's rape case, CM promises stringent punishment to culprits

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and former chief minister of Maharashtra was elected as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly on Sunday.

Speaker Nana Patole made the announcement in the House stating that BJP will be the opposition party in the assembly.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray greeted Fadnavis on his election and said he had learnt a lot from his predecessor. The CM also said that he "won't ever leave the ideology of Hindutva."

"I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva'&nbsp;and won't ever leave it. In the past 5 years, I've never betrayed the government," Thackeray said Fadnavis took the seat allocated to the Leader of Opposition soon after his election.

"I welcome Devendra Fadnavis as the Leader of Opposition. We have been together from the past 25 years and I didn't expect this day to come," he said.

The Shiv Sena chief, however, said that the BJP-Shiv Sena spilt would never have happened if the former was good to them.

"I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened," Thackeray said.

"I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came," Thackeray said in an apparent reference to Fadnavis poll campaign slogans 'I will be back'.

NCP leader Jayant Patil also took a jibe at Fadvanis saying, "Fadvanis was right in saying that he will come back but he didn't say he will be sitting on the opposite side."

Earlier today, Congress MLA Nana Patole was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the Assembly after BJP withdrew its candidate for the post.BJP and Shiv Sena alliance collapsed after BJP did not accept the latter's demand for equal power-sharing including rotation of the chief minister's post in the new government.

Sena later stitched an alliance -- Maha Vikas Aghadi -- with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Congress to form the new government with Uddhav Thackeray at the helm. 
&nbsp;

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and former chief minister of Maharashtra was elected as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly on Sunday. Speaker Nana Patole made the announcement in the House stating that BJP will be the opposition party in the assembly.

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and former chief minister of Maharashtra was elected as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly on Sunday. Speaker Nana Patole made the announcement in the House stating that BJP will be the opposition party in the assembly. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray greeted Fadnavis on his election and said he had learnt a lot from his predecessor. The CM also said that he "won't ever leave the ideology of Hindutva." "I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva' and won't ever leave it. In the past 5 years, I've never betrayed the government," Thackeray said Fadnavis took the seat allocated to the Leader of Opposition soon after his election. "I welcome Devendra Fadnavis as the Leader of Opposition. We have been together from the past 25 years and I didn't expect this day to come," he said. The Shiv Sena chief, however, said that the BJP-Shiv Sena spilt would never have happened if the former was good to them. "I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened," Thackeray said. "I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came," Thackeray said in an apparent reference to Fadnavis poll campaign slogans 'I will be back'. NCP leader Jayant Patil also took a jibe at Fadvanis saying, "Fadvanis was right in saying that he will come back but he didn't say he will be sitting on the opposite side." Earlier today, Congress MLA Nana Patole was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the Assembly after BJP withdrew its candidate for the post.BJP and Shiv Sena alliance collapsed after BJP did not accept the latter's demand for equal power-sharing including rotation of the chief minister's post in the new government. Sena later stitched an alliance -- Maha Vikas Aghadi -- with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Congress to form the new government with Uddhav Thackeray at the helm.

Maharashtra: Devendra Fadnavis elected Leader of Opposition

Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will receive rains in the next few days, predicted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) here on Sunday.

"Due to low atmospheric pressure, there will be heavy and moderate rain in almost all the districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," said N Puviarasan, Director, IMD Chennai.

The IMD official has also urged fishermen not to venture into the sea near Kanyakumari sea, Maldives and Lakshadweep for the next couple of days.

Puviarasan also told ANI that since October 1, Tamil Nadu has received 39 cm rain, which is 3 cm higher than the seasonal rainfall.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will receive rains in the next few days, predicted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) here on Sunday. "Due to low atmospheric pressure, there will be heavy and moderate rain in almost all the districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," said N Puviarasan, Director, IMD Chennai.

Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will receive rains in the next few days, predicted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) here on Sunday. "Due to low atmospheric pressure, there will be heavy and moderate rain in almost all the districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," said N Puviarasan, Director, IMD Chennai. The IMD official has also urged fishermen not to venture into the sea near Kanyakumari sea, Maldives and Lakshadweep for the next couple of days. Puviarasan also told ANI that since October 1, Tamil Nadu has received 39 cm rain, which is 3 cm higher than the seasonal rainfall.

Tamil Nadu, Puducherry likely to receive more rains: IMD

Working BJP president JP Nadda on Sunday said that the Assembly polls in Jharkhand are not about the election of an MLA or Chief Minister but for the future of Jharkhand.

"I salute the land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. This is not an election about making somebody MLA or CM but about the future of Jharkhand," he said while asserting that the BJP gave a "stable and corruption-free government" in Jharkhand.

The BJP leader counted some important legislations brought by the Central government including the abrogation of Article 370 and Triple Talaq and credited a "strong leadership" for doing this.

Nadda said that the Triple Talaq was abolished in several Islamic countries as well. Taking a dig at the Congress-JMM alliance, Nadda said this alliance is only for the "chair" and that it has nothing to do with development and people of Jharkhand.

The BJP leader also referred to the money allocated to Jharkhand under the 14th Finance Commission and said that the amount was much higher than given to the state under 13th Finance Commission.

Talking about the defence preparedness, the working BJP president said, "Not a single gun was bought during UPA tenure. The demand of 'One Rank, One Pension'&nbsp;was pending since 1971. When we came to power, we gave OROP to 22 lakh faujis. 36 Rafales are being inducted into our fleet. 1.83 lakhs bullet-proof jackets have been provided to the military. Not just that, we are even exporting that to the world," he said.

Referring to the various welfare schemes launched by the Central and state government for farmers, Nadda said, "When we talk of double engine government..we don't that just for speeches."

He also talked in detail about the various other welfare schemes launched by the government and how they have benefited the people.

In particular, Nadda mentioned about the Aayushman Bharat scheme and recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the scheme in Jharkhand.

He also expressed happiness over "Naxalism being uprooted."Praising the Prime Minister, the working BJP president said, "Modijee ki sirf ek jati hai -- gareeb. Gareeb ki seva krna -- yahi unki jati hai."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Working BJP president JP Nadda on Sunday said that the Assembly polls in Jharkhand are not about the election of an MLA or Chief Minister but for the future of Jharkhand.

Working BJP president JP Nadda on Sunday said that the Assembly polls in Jharkhand are not about the election of an MLA or Chief Minister but for the future of Jharkhand. "I salute the land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. This is not an election about making somebody MLA or CM but about the future of Jharkhand," he said while asserting that the BJP gave a "stable and corruption-free government" in Jharkhand. The BJP leader counted some important legislations brought by the Central government including the abrogation of Article 370 and Triple Talaq and credited a "strong leadership" for doing this. Nadda said that the Triple Talaq was abolished in several Islamic countries as well. Taking a dig at the Congress-JMM alliance, Nadda said this alliance is only for the "chair" and that it has nothing to do with development and people of Jharkhand. The BJP leader also referred to the money allocated to Jharkhand under the 14th Finance Commission and said that the amount was much higher than given to the state under 13th Finance Commission. Talking about the defence preparedness, the working BJP president said, "Not a single gun was bought during UPA tenure. The demand of 'One Rank, One Pension' was pending since 1971. When we came to power, we gave OROP to 22 lakh faujis. 36 Rafales are being inducted into our fleet. 1.83 lakhs bullet-proof jackets have been provided to the military. Not just that, we are even exporting that to the world," he said. Referring to the various welfare schemes launched by the Central and state government for farmers, Nadda said, "When we talk of double engine government..we don't that just for speeches." He also talked in detail about the various other welfare schemes launched by the government and how they have benefited the people. In particular, Nadda mentioned about the Aayushman Bharat scheme and recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the scheme in Jharkhand. He also expressed happiness over "Naxalism being uprooted."Praising the Prime Minister, the working BJP president said, "Modijee ki sirf ek jati hai -- gareeb. Gareeb ki seva krna -- yahi unki jati hai."

Assembly polls about future of Jharkhand, not about electing MLAs: JP Nadda

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7.

According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4.

He will inaugurate Indira Gandhi Memorial Bus stand cum shopping complex at Edakkara, new block at GHSS Karuvarakundu at Wandoor, a project in Kodenchery Grama Panchayat at Mariyam Auditorium, Kodenchery, Thiruvambadi and cultural conference at Mahadeva Temple, Kodencherry on December 5.

He will also visit the Nilambur Assembly convention at OCK Auditorium, Wandoor Assembly convention at Eriyad auditorium, Love share, a school for special children and Thiruvambadi assembly convention at Shangrilla auditorium, Mukkam on the same day.

On December 6 he is scheduled to attend Late M I Shanavas remembrance meeting at Cholayil auditorium, Meenangadi, Kalpetta assembly convention at Chandragiri auditorium, visit the family of Shehala Sherin, the child who died of snakebite.

He will also visit Sarvajana HSS School, the school where the snakebite episode occurred at Sultan Bathery.

Inauguration of new block Vythiri government hospital and newly constructed MSDP block at Vakeri High School will be done on the same day by Rahul Gandhi.On the last day of his visit on December 7, he will meet with 400 newly trained disaster management volunteers at Zilla Panchayat auditorium, Kalpetta and distribute 'Muttathe Mulla'&nbsp;loan to SHG's (Kudumbashree) by Manathawadi farmer's service co-operative bank.

Rahul will also inaugurate a new department block of Psychiatry and de-addiction at Assumption Hospital, Sultan Bathery on the same day.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7. According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4.

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7. According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4. He will inaugurate Indira Gandhi Memorial Bus stand cum shopping complex at Edakkara, new block at GHSS Karuvarakundu at Wandoor, a project in Kodenchery Grama Panchayat at Mariyam Auditorium, Kodenchery, Thiruvambadi and cultural conference at Mahadeva Temple, Kodencherry on December 5. He will also visit the Nilambur Assembly convention at OCK Auditorium, Wandoor Assembly convention at Eriyad auditorium, Love share, a school for special children and Thiruvambadi assembly convention at Shangrilla auditorium, Mukkam on the same day. On December 6 he is scheduled to attend Late M I Shanavas remembrance meeting at Cholayil auditorium, Meenangadi, Kalpetta assembly convention at Chandragiri auditorium, visit the family of Shehala Sherin, the child who died of snakebite. He will also visit Sarvajana HSS School, the school where the snakebite episode occurred at Sultan Bathery. Inauguration of new block Vythiri government hospital and newly constructed MSDP block at Vakeri High School will be done on the same day by Rahul Gandhi.On the last day of his visit on December 7, he will meet with 400 newly trained disaster management volunteers at Zilla Panchayat auditorium, Kalpetta and distribute 'Muttathe Mulla' loan to SHG's (Kudumbashree) by Manathawadi farmer's service co-operative bank. Rahul will also inaugurate a new department block of Psychiatry and de-addiction at Assumption Hospital, Sultan Bathery on the same day.

Rahul Gandhi to pay four-day visit to Wayanad on December 4

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-nana-patole-elected-as-maharashtra-assembly-speaker-unopposed-265530">Assembly</a>.

"I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened,"&nbsp;the chief minister said. It should be noted that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-uddhav-thackeray-led-government-passes-floor-test-in-state-assembly-265422">NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress formed an alliance </a>after long-time allies Sena and BJP had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I have learnt a lot of things from Fadnavis and I will always be befriended to him," Uddhav said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva' and won't ever leave it. In past 5 years, I've never betrayed the govt. <a href="https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR">https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR</a> <a href="https://t.co/3K5qJKEPAU">pic.twitter.com/3K5qJKEPAU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201048965279449090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thackeray also said that he is a "lucky" CM as those who opposed him are now in alliance with his party and his former friends are now sitting in Opposition. "I am here with my luck and blessings of people," the CM said.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came. <a href="https://t.co/fobggtTIFj">pic.twitter.com/fobggtTIFj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201048330454781952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Maharashtra Assembly elected Congress's Nana Patole unopposed as Speaker of the House after BJP withdrew its candidate to maintain the tradition of Assembly. The BJP had nominated Kishan Rathore for the Speaker post.

On Sunday, Fadnavis was also elected as the Leader of Opposition of the Assembly.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the Assembly.

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the Assembly. "I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened," the chief minister said. It should be noted that the NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress formed an alliance after long-time allies Sena and BJP had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. "I have learnt a lot of things from Fadnavis and I will always be befriended to him," Uddhav said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva' and won't ever leave it. In past 5 years, I've never betrayed the govt. https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR pic.twitter.com/3K5qJKEPAU — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2019 × Thackeray also said that he is a "lucky" CM as those who opposed him are now in alliance with his party and his former friends are now sitting in Opposition. "I am here with my luck and blessings of people," the CM said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came. pic.twitter.com/fobggtTIFj — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2019 × Earlier, the Maharashtra Assembly elected Congress's Nana Patole unopposed as Speaker of the House after BJP withdrew its candidate to maintain the tradition of Assembly. The BJP had nominated Kishan Rathore for the Speaker post. On Sunday, Fadnavis was also elected as the Leader of Opposition of the Assembly. (with inputs from ANI)

I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadnavis: Uddhav Thackeray

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-attack-suspect-was-planning-to-go-to-pakistan-for-terrorist-training-police-265412">convicted terrorist </a>who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012.&nbsp;

Usman Khan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-bridge-shooting-armed-man-gunned-down-by-police-265289">who stabbed two people </a>to death at the London Bridge, was arrested along with other accomplices in 2010 by British police after he was found discussing a plot to bomb London Stock Exchange.&nbsp;

"Usman Khan and Nazan Hussain attended Madrassa and were themselves keen to perform acts of terrorism in Kashmir. When they and others, who had been recruited and trained in the Madrassa and had experience in Kashmir, they may return to the UK and perform acts of violent terrorism here," the British judge had said in 2012.&nbsp;

The judge had also said that Usman is so dangerous that he was imposing so-called imprisonment for public protection (IPP) indeterminate sentence of eight years. The judgment meant that Usman will remain in prison as long as he is seen as a danger to the public and the Parole Board would take a call whether to release him or not.&nbsp;

Usman's family originally hailed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the 28-year-old was inspired by terrorist organisation Al Qaeda, especially by militant Anwar al-Awlaki. &nbsp;

He was a part of a militant group from Stokes city in the UK, which formed closed links with militants from Cardiff and London. The London and Welsh parts of the conspiracy were planning to bomb a toilet at the London Stock Exchange. The 28-year-old supported the bombing and was also discussing about plans to bomb pubs.&nbsp;

Usman was also planning to go to Kashmir to participate in a camp of jihadist militants to sharpen his skills, including firearms training and to carry out attacks in Kashmir. &nbsp;

"It was envisaged by them all that ultimately they, and the other recruits, may return to the UK as trained and experienced terrorists available to perform terrorist attacks in this country," the judge had said.

The IPP sentencing was abolished in 2012 after the then British PM David Cameron announced a review of the sentencing in 2011.&nbsp;

Following the abolishment, the appeal court judges in 2013 quashed the indeterminate period of Usman's sentencing and imposed a determinate prison term of 16 years, which meant that Usman could be eligible for release after serving half of his term.&nbsp;

Court of Appeal judges also had said that parole board will decide whether a convict is safe enough to be released. But parole board said on Saturday that they were not involved in the decision to release Usman, adding that he "appears to have been released automatically on licence (as required by law), without ever being referred to the Board."

British PM Boris Johnson, who is seeking another term vowed on Saturday that he would review Britain sentencing system as the convicted terrorist was released early who was responsible for carrying out the attack at the London bridge.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters and ANI) 
&nbsp;

The convicted terrorist who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012.

The convicted terrorist who was also responsible for carrying out the knife attack at the London Bridge on Friday was also planning to "perform acts of terrorism" in Kashmir, a UK judge had said in his judgment in 2012. Usman Khan, who stabbed two people to death at the London Bridge, was arrested along with other accomplices in 2010 by British police after he was found discussing a plot to bomb London Stock Exchange. "Usman Khan and Nazan Hussain attended Madrassa and were themselves keen to perform acts of terrorism in Kashmir. When they and others, who had been recruited and trained in the Madrassa and had experience in Kashmir, they may return to the UK and perform acts of violent terrorism here," the British judge had said in 2012. The judge had also said that Usman is so dangerous that he was imposing so-called imprisonment for public protection (IPP) indeterminate sentence of eight years. The judgment meant that Usman will remain in prison as long as he is seen as a danger to the public and the Parole Board would take a call whether to release him or not. Usman's family originally hailed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the 28-year-old was inspired by terrorist organisation Al Qaeda, especially by militant Anwar al-Awlaki. He was a part of a militant group from Stokes city in the UK, which formed closed links with militants from Cardiff and London. The London and Welsh parts of the conspiracy were planning to bomb a toilet at the London Stock Exchange. The 28-year-old supported the bombing and was also discussing about plans to bomb pubs. Usman was also planning to go to Kashmir to participate in a camp of jihadist militants to sharpen his skills, including firearms training and to carry out attacks in Kashmir. "It was envisaged by them all that ultimately they, and the other recruits, may return to the UK as trained and experienced terrorists available to perform terrorist attacks in this country," the judge had said. The IPP sentencing was abolished in 2012 after the then British PM David Cameron announced a review of the sentencing in 2011. Following the abolishment, the appeal court judges in 2013 quashed the indeterminate period of Usman's sentencing and imposed a determinate prison term of 16 years, which meant that Usman could be eligible for release after serving half of his term. Court of Appeal judges also had said that parole board will decide whether a convict is safe enough to be released. But parole board said on Saturday that they were not involved in the decision to release Usman, adding that he "appears to have been released automatically on licence (as required by law), without ever being referred to the Board." British PM Boris Johnson, who is seeking another term vowed on Saturday that he would review Britain sentencing system as the convicted terrorist was released early who was responsible for carrying out the attack at the London bridge. (with inputs from Reuters and ANI)

UK judge had warned of London Bridge terror convict's plans to carry out attacks in Kashmir

The European Union special envoy on Afghanistan Roland Kobia and Uzbekistan's special envoy on Afghanistan Irgashev Ismatulla Raimovich will be visiting New Delhi next week.

The European Union special envoy on Afghanistan Roland Kobia and Uzbekistan's special envoy on Afghanistan Irgashev Ismatulla Raimovich will be visiting New Delhi next week. While Raimovich will be visiting on December 2-3, Kobia will be visiting on 3-4. The visit highlights the role played by New Delhi, especially development, in the landlocked South Asian country, and how other countries are eager to understand India's view on the future of Afghanistan. "India had a position on the developments in Afghanistan and it engages with all International partners for exchange of views", a source told WION. India is building major infrastructure projects in Afghanistan including the Afghan parliament in Kabul and the India Afghan friendship dam in Herat province and will soon start work on Shatoot dam in Kabul for which Geotechnical survey is started. Additionally, New Delhi has committed to take up 116 high impact community development projects in all 34 provinces of Afghanistan. With the help of Chabahar port and the India Afghan air corridor, new Delhi has increased connectivity to Afghanistan, which was otherwise was being denied by Pakistan. The visit by special envoys comes even as US President Donal Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan last week and announced resumption of dialogues with the Taliban. Earlier in September, the US president had cancelled talks with the group after an attacked killed US Solider. India's official policy has been an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process and has backed the government in Kabul.

EU, Uzbek special envoys on Afghanistan to visit India next week 

Indian election commission will be sending a team to observe the Uzbekistan parliamentary election on December 22. India has been sending observers in elections in the neighbourhood and had recently sent observers in Sri Lankan Presidential elections.&nbsp;

The doubly landlocked central Asian country has introduced many reforms in the past few years especially political reforms.

Speaking to WION, Uzbek envoy to India, Farhod Arziev said, "For the past three years unprecedented reform processes have been underway in Uzbekistan. In the beginning of 2017 under the initiative of President of Uzbekistan, his excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev new national Development Strategy of Uzbekistan was adopted. The Strategy has been consistently put into action since then."

"No doubt that the upcoming parliamentary elections will play a significant role in further deepening the democratic reforms in our society, further increasing the role of the parliament," he added.

Five political parties will participate in the parliamentary elections and will compete to get seats in the 150-seat Legislative Assembly – the lower chamber of the Uzbek parliament. The five political parties standing in the polls are &nbsp;National Revival Party, People's Democratic Party, Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan, ‘Adolat’ (Justice) Social Democratic Party and Ecological Party.&nbsp;

20 million people will participate in the elections, including two million youth who will vote for the first time. Nearly 10,000 ballot boxes will be used in 150 separate constituencies.

Uzbek citizens, who are temporarily or permanently living abroad, can cast their votes at the missions. A voting station at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in India for the citizens of Uzbekistan will be set up.

Indian election commission will be sending a team to observe the Uzbekistan parliamentary election on December 22. India has been sending observers in elections in the neighbourhood and had recently sent observers in Sri Lankan Presidential elections.

Indian election commission will be sending a team to observe the Uzbekistan parliamentary election on December 22. India has been sending observers in elections in the neighbourhood and had recently sent observers in Sri Lankan Presidential elections. The doubly landlocked central Asian country has introduced many reforms in the past few years especially political reforms. Speaking to WION, Uzbek envoy to India, Farhod Arziev said, "For the past three years unprecedented reform processes have been underway in Uzbekistan. In the beginning of 2017 under the initiative of President of Uzbekistan, his excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev new national Development Strategy of Uzbekistan was adopted. The Strategy has been consistently put into action since then." "No doubt that the upcoming parliamentary elections will play a significant role in further deepening the democratic reforms in our society, further increasing the role of the parliament," he added. Five political parties will participate in the parliamentary elections and will compete to get seats in the 150-seat Legislative Assembly – the lower chamber of the Uzbek parliament. The five political parties standing in the polls are National Revival Party, People's Democratic Party, Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan, ‘Adolat’ (Justice) Social Democratic Party and Ecological Party. 20 million people will participate in the elections, including two million youth who will vote for the first time. Nearly 10,000 ballot boxes will be used in 150 separate constituencies. Uzbek citizens, who are temporarily or permanently living abroad, can cast their votes at the missions. A voting station at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in India for the citizens of Uzbekistan will be set up.

Indian observers to monitor Uzbekistan parliamentary election on December 22

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar has urged Pakistan to act on terror which impacts the entire region from Afghanistan to India. Speaking at the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS), ambassador Kumar said, "We in last 3-4 decades, have seen, the same source of terrorism impacting both the countries.

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar has urged Pakistan to act on terror which impacts the entire region from Afghanistan to India. Speaking at the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS), ambassador Kumar said, "We in last 3-4 decades, have seen, the same source of terrorism impacting both the countries...if we have peace in Afghanistan, we all stand to benefit from that peace by various cooperative mechanism" The biggest threat to peace and stability in the region is terrorism, he said and added, ''Our region, like most other parts of the world, can have peace, stability, prosperity but the condition is just one, violence stops, terrorism stops, the entire region stands to benefit... it requires a decision we can talk about our issues in an atmosphere free of violence and terrorism.. better sense should prevail" Talking about the need for integration and connectivity in South Asia, Envoy Kumar said, "peace for us empowerment of all the people to enable them to reach full potential, to integrate the region for the socio-economic benefit for all..how fast we have moved in the eastern side with other neighbours" Adding, "fundamentals of foreign policy is to create stakes for neighbours in India's growth" He highlighted India's development assistance to the landlocked South Asian country saying New Delhi has committed 3 billion dollars for Afghanistan development of which 2 billion dollars has already been spent. India has built major highways, parliament building, and Salma dam and contributed 350 projects throughout Afghanistan in all the districts.

If we have peace in Afghanistan, we all stand to benefit: Indian envoy to Kabul 

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-corridor-general-bajwas-brainchild-india-will-remember-this-wound-forever-top-pakistan-minister-265507">Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid's </a>disclosure that Kartarpur Corridor was the brainchild of their Army Chief General Qamar Javed had exposed Islamabad's nefarious intent behind the initiative.

Even as he expressed serious concern over this admission by the Pak minister, the Chief Minister said that Rashid had completely bared open the wicked design of Pakistan behind the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-aims-to-spread-unrest-through-kartarpur-corridor-pakistan-activist-264007">Corridor</a>, which India had hoped would emerge as a bridge of peace between the two countries.

The chief minister also took a strong exception to Rashid's remarks that "the Corridor would hurt India, which would forever remember the wound inflicted on it by Gen Bajwa with the Corridor."

Terming it an open and blatant threat against India's security and integrity, Captain Amarinder warned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-bonds-with-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-over-bus-journey-to-kartarpur-gurdwara-261388">Pakistan </a>not to attempt to indulge in any misadventure against its neighbour.

"Don't make the mistake of reading weakness in our gratitude for the opening of the Corridor," warned the Chief Minister, asserting that India would give a befitting response to any bid by Pakistan to attack its borders or its people.

Declaring that India would never let&nbsp;Pakistan fulfill its despicable ambitions against the former, he said any such attempt by Islamabad would be met with retaliation of the kind that they would never be able to survive.

Captain Amarinder recalled that he had all along maintained that while he was extremely happy, as a Sikh, at the opening of the Corridor to enable access to Indian devotees to the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara, the threat it posed to our country could not be ignored. The chief minister had, in fact, been repeatedly urging caution over the matter, warning that Pakistan was trying to win the sympathies of the Sikhs by opening the corridor to further the ISI-backed Referendum 2020 agenda.

This had been quite evident from various facts, most notably that Bajwa had disclosed the decision to build the Corridor to then Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu at the time of Imran Khan's swearing-in ceremony, said the Chief Minister.

"Imran had not even taken over then, yet their Army Chief had spoken about this to Sidhu. How was it possible unless Bajwa was the one behind the Corridor decision," asked Captain Amarinder, recalling that he had pointed this out long back.

Given the revelation of the minister, Captain Amarinder also urged Sidhu to be more cautious in his dealings with the Imran Khan government and not allow his personal friendship with the Pakistan prime minister to cloud his judgment in any way, as that could be harmful to India's interests.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday said that Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid's disclosure that Kartarpur Corridor was the brainchild of their Army Chief General Qamar Javed had exposed Islamabad's nefarious intent behind the initiative.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday said that Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid's disclosure that Kartarpur Corridor was the brainchild of their Army Chief General Qamar Javed had exposed Islamabad's nefarious intent behind the initiative. Even as he expressed serious concern over this admission by the Pak minister, the Chief Minister said that Rashid had completely bared open the wicked design of Pakistan behind the Corridor, which India had hoped would emerge as a bridge of peace between the two countries. The chief minister also took a strong exception to Rashid's remarks that "the Corridor would hurt India, which would forever remember the wound inflicted on it by Gen Bajwa with the Corridor." Terming it an open and blatant threat against India's security and integrity, Captain Amarinder warned Pakistan not to attempt to indulge in any misadventure against its neighbour. "Don't make the mistake of reading weakness in our gratitude for the opening of the Corridor," warned the Chief Minister, asserting that India would give a befitting response to any bid by Pakistan to attack its borders or its people. Declaring that India would never let Pakistan fulfill its despicable ambitions against the former, he said any such attempt by Islamabad would be met with retaliation of the kind that they would never be able to survive. Captain Amarinder recalled that he had all along maintained that while he was extremely happy, as a Sikh, at the opening of the Corridor to enable access to Indian devotees to the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara, the threat it posed to our country could not be ignored. The chief minister had, in fact, been repeatedly urging caution over the matter, warning that Pakistan was trying to win the sympathies of the Sikhs by opening the corridor to further the ISI-backed Referendum 2020 agenda. This had been quite evident from various facts, most notably that Bajwa had disclosed the decision to build the Corridor to then Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu at the time of Imran Khan's swearing-in ceremony, said the Chief Minister. "Imran had not even taken over then, yet their Army Chief had spoken about this to Sidhu. How was it possible unless Bajwa was the one behind the Corridor decision," asked Captain Amarinder, recalling that he had pointed this out long back. Given the revelation of the minister, Captain Amarinder also urged Sidhu to be more cautious in his dealings with the Imran Khan government and not allow his personal friendship with the Pakistan prime minister to cloud his judgment in any way, as that could be harmful to India's interests.

Pakistan minister's statements on Kartarpur Corridor exposes country's 'nefarious designs': Amarinder Singh

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-confident-of-winning-all-15-seats-in-karnataka-bypolls-deputy-cm-ashwath-narayan-263908">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) </a>is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-congress-declares-names-of-six-candidates-contesting-assembly-by-polls-262661">Karnataka bypolls</a>.

"BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here.

"It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results."

Kharge further said that all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">disqualified MLAs </a>will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections.

"BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said.

Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns.

"The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said.

"In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added.

Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away."

The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.&nbsp;

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls. "BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here. "It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results." Kharge further said that all disqualified MLAs will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections. "BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said. Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns. "The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said. "In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added. Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away." The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.

BJP misusing Constitution, will be taught lesson in Karnataka bypolls: Mallikarjun Kharge

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held talks with Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Japanese Defence Minister Taro Kono to further cement strategic relations between the two countries. 
 
Another meeting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-japan-to-hold-22-ministerial-dialogue-in-new-delhi-today-265339">India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2)</a> will be held in the evening and the two sides are expected to discuss defence and security, amongst other issues of mutual interest. 
 
The Indian delegation will be led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Japan's Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Taro Kono will lead the Japanese side. 
 
The meeting is being held in pursuance of the decision taken by Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe during the 13th India-Japan Annual Summit held in Japan in October 2018, with an aim to institute a Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue for further deepening bilateral security and defence cooperation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. 
 
"The 2+2 meeting would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the status of and exchange further views on strengthening defence and security cooperation between India and Japan so as to provide greater depth to the 'India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership'," the statement added. 
 
The two sides will also exchange views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and their respective efforts under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision' for achieving their shared objective of peace, prosperity and progress to realise a better future for the people of the two countries and the region. 
 
The dialogue has come ahead of the summit-level meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe later in the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held talks with Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Japanese Defence Minister Taro Kono to further cement strategic relations between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held talks with Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Japanese Defence Minister Taro Kono to further cement strategic relations between the two countries. Another meeting of India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) will be held in the evening and the two sides are expected to discuss defence and security, amongst other issues of mutual interest. The Indian delegation will be led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Japan's Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Taro Kono will lead the Japanese side. The meeting is being held in pursuance of the decision taken by Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe during the 13th India-Japan Annual Summit held in Japan in October 2018, with an aim to institute a Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue for further deepening bilateral security and defence cooperation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "The 2+2 meeting would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the status of and exchange further views on strengthening defence and security cooperation between India and Japan so as to provide greater depth to the 'India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership'," the statement added. The two sides will also exchange views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and their respective efforts under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision' for achieving their shared objective of peace, prosperity and progress to realise a better future for the people of the two countries and the region. The dialogue has come ahead of the summit-level meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe later in the year.

PM Modi holds talks with Japanese ministers on improving strategic ties

Locals on Friday staged a protest outside the Shadnagar Police Station here against the alleged rape and murder of a woman veterinary doctor on Thursday. 
 
Scores of locals gathered outside the police station and raised slogans against the police. Demanding justice for the victim, locals pressed for prompt police action and fast proceeding of the case. 
 
The burnt body of the veterinary doctor was found at Shadnagar outskirts in Telangana's Ranga Reddy district on Thursday. 
 
The body was later identified as that of a veterinary doctor from the city. As per the preliminary probe, the police suspect that the doctor was sexually assaulted before being charred to death. 
 
The Police on Friday arrested four accused persons involved in the alleged rape and murder case of the woman veterinary doctor. 
 
According to the police sources, the accused that were arrested by the police are a lorry driver and cleaners.

Locals on Friday staged a protest outside the Shadnagar Police Station here against the alleged rape and murder of a woman veterinary doctor on Thursday. Scores of locals gathered outside the police station and raised slogans against the police.

Locals on Friday staged a protest outside the Shadnagar Police Station here against the alleged rape and murder of a woman veterinary doctor on Thursday. Scores of locals gathered outside the police station and raised slogans against the police. Demanding justice for the victim, locals pressed for prompt police action and fast proceeding of the case. The burnt body of the veterinary doctor was found at Shadnagar outskirts in Telangana's Ranga Reddy district on Thursday. The body was later identified as that of a veterinary doctor from the city. As per the preliminary probe, the police suspect that the doctor was sexually assaulted before being charred to death. The Police on Friday arrested four accused persons involved in the alleged rape and murder case of the woman veterinary doctor. According to the police sources, the accused that were arrested by the police are a lorry driver and cleaners.

Telangana: Locals protest over rape, murder of veterinary doctor

Ajit Pawar, the leader of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Saturday said that the ''Maha Vikas Aghadi'' government will prove its majority during the floor test at the State Legislative Assembly. The alliance includes NCP, Congress, and the Shiv Sena. 
 
Two days after being sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray led government is set to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-maha-vikas-aghadi-government-to-face-trust-vote-today-sanjay-raut-claims-support-of-170-mlas-265349">face a trust vote</a> in the Maharashtra Assembly today. 
 
Thackeray is heading the government of the newly formed alliance between the three parties.

The floor test will be conducted by pro tem Speaker Dilip Walse Patil, who had replaced BJP's Kalidas Kolambkar on Friday for the two-day special Assembly session.

Pawar also alluded to his meeting with BJP MP Prataprao Chikhalikar and claimed that it had nothing to do with the floor test.

"It was just a courtesy meeting. Even if we are from different parties we all have relations with each other. We did not have any discussion on the floor test. As Sanjay Raut said, our alliance will prove our numbers today in the house," Pawar said. 
 
Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs.

(With inputs from ANI)

Ajit Pawar, the leader of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Saturday said that the ''Maha Vikas Aghadi'' government will prove its majority during the floor test at the State Legislative Assembly.

Ajit Pawar, the leader of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Saturday said that the ''Maha Vikas Aghadi'' government will prove its majority during the floor test at the State Legislative Assembly. The alliance includes NCP, Congress, and the Shiv Sena. Two days after being sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray led government is set to face a trust vote in the Maharashtra Assembly today. Thackeray is heading the government of the newly formed alliance between the three parties. The floor test will be conducted by pro tem Speaker Dilip Walse Patil, who had replaced BJP's Kalidas Kolambkar on Friday for the two-day special Assembly session. Pawar also alluded to his meeting with BJP MP Prataprao Chikhalikar and claimed that it had nothing to do with the floor test. "It was just a courtesy meeting. Even if we are from different parties we all have relations with each other. We did not have any discussion on the floor test. As Sanjay Raut said, our alliance will prove our numbers today in the house," Pawar said. Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs. (With inputs from ANI)

NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will prove its majority during floor test today: Ajit Pawar

The first phase of election in 13 Assembly constituencies across Jharkhand witnessed approximately 64.12 per cent till 5 pm, Election Commission said.

The first phase covered six districts - Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Latehar, Lohardaga and Gumla."Despite the fact that all these Assembly constituencies fell in the most Naxal affected districts the poll today went off peacefully, barring few minor incidents, with very enthusiastic participation of voters including PWDs, senior citizens, youth etc," read a statement from the electoral body.

As many as 4,162 out of 4,892 polling stations - more than 85 per cent - were categorised as critical; adequate security arrangements were made.

Four choppers were deployed to drop 440 polling personnel to the polling stations, and five choppers will be used for bringing polling personnel from the remote locations back, the statement added.

Total cash, liquor, drug/narcotics and other items seized in the first phase are worth Rs 3.9 crore in the first phase.

In total, 37,83,050 people were eligible to vote in the first phase. 
&nbsp;

The first phase of election in 13 Assembly constituencies across Jharkhand witnessed approximately 64.12 per cent till 5 pm, Election Commission said. The first phase covered six districts - Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Latehar, Lohardaga and Gumla.

The first phase of election in 13 Assembly constituencies across Jharkhand witnessed approximately 64.12 per cent till 5 pm, Election Commission said. The first phase covered six districts - Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Latehar, Lohardaga and Gumla."Despite the fact that all these Assembly constituencies fell in the most Naxal affected districts the poll today went off peacefully, barring few minor incidents, with very enthusiastic participation of voters including PWDs, senior citizens, youth etc," read a statement from the electoral body. As many as 4,162 out of 4,892 polling stations - more than 85 per cent - were categorised as critical; adequate security arrangements were made. Four choppers were deployed to drop 440 polling personnel to the polling stations, and five choppers will be used for bringing polling personnel from the remote locations back, the statement added. Total cash, liquor, drug/narcotics and other items seized in the first phase are worth Rs 3.9 crore in the first phase. In total, 37,83,050 people were eligible to vote in the first phase.

Over 64% voter turnout recorded in first phase of Jharkhand polls till 5pm: Election Commission

The employees of Bihar State Cooperative Marketing Union Limited (Biscomaun) are selling onions while wearing helmets to protect themselves from any possible public outrage. 
 
People were seen standing in long serpentine queues, waiting for hours, outside the mobile outlets of Biscomaun to get onions at Rs 35 per kilogram. 
 
Biscomaun employees were apprehensive that the people could go berserk at any time, though there was no dearth of onions. 
 
They rued the fact that the administration has not provided any police protection, and so they have no other option but to wear helmets to save themselves. 
 
"We are wearing helmets because we are concerned about our security. Yesterday, people resorted to stone-pelting in Arrah in which many were injured. The administration has not arranged for security," said Rohit Kumar, an employee who was seen addressing people standing in the queue to be patient. 
 
"There is no dearth of onions. More stock is coming, please don't break the queue," he said addressing the public. 
 
"You are seeing the crowds. Our vehicles are going to every colony to cater to the requirement of onions. But, our lives are in danger," said Manish, another employee. 
Many in the queue said that they had been waiting since the wee hours to buy onions. 
 
"I have been here since 4 am. Onions in the market are being sold for Rs 80-Rs 100 per kilogram while here they are selling them at Rs 35 per kilogram," said Sheela Devi. 
 
Also, long queues were witnessed at the Biscomaun counter in Arrah earlier today. Onions here are being sold at Rs 35 per kilogram by the cooperative.

The employees of Bihar State Cooperative Marketing Union Limited (Biscomaun) are selling onions while wearing helmets to protect themselves from any possible public outrage.

The employees of Bihar State Cooperative Marketing Union Limited (Biscomaun) are selling onions while wearing helmets to protect themselves from any possible public outrage. People were seen standing in long serpentine queues, waiting for hours, outside the mobile outlets of Biscomaun to get onions at Rs 35 per kilogram. Biscomaun employees were apprehensive that the people could go berserk at any time, though there was no dearth of onions. They rued the fact that the administration has not provided any police protection, and so they have no other option but to wear helmets to save themselves. "We are wearing helmets because we are concerned about our security. Yesterday, people resorted to stone-pelting in Arrah in which many were injured. The administration has not arranged for security," said Rohit Kumar, an employee who was seen addressing people standing in the queue to be patient. "There is no dearth of onions. More stock is coming, please don't break the queue," he said addressing the public. "You are seeing the crowds. Our vehicles are going to every colony to cater to the requirement of onions. But, our lives are in danger," said Manish, another employee. Many in the queue said that they had been waiting since the wee hours to buy onions. "I have been here since 4 am. Onions in the market are being sold for Rs 80-Rs 100 per kilogram while here they are selling them at Rs 35 per kilogram," said Sheela Devi. Also, long queues were witnessed at the Biscomaun counter in Arrah earlier today. Onions here are being sold at Rs 35 per kilogram by the cooperative.

Cooperative employees in Patna don helmets for protection while selling onions

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