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Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar on Friday told media that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will lead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-senas-chief-minister-will-rule-for-5-years-sanjay-raut-263824">Maharashtra government</a>, news agencies reported.&nbsp;

The comment came shortly after the high-octane meeting between the NCP, the Congress and the Sena concluded this evening.&nbsp;

Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: Tomorrow a press conference will be held by the three parties.Discussion are continuing. Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/fHfR2Q2GCO">pic.twitter.com/fHfR2Q2GCO</a>
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"Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said.&nbsp;

The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-if-government-is-formed-it-wont-go-ahead-gadkari-on-congress-ncp-shiv-sena-alliance-in-maharashtra-263905">government formation in Maharashtra</a>.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar on Friday told media that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government, news agencies reported.

Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar on Friday told media that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government, news agencies reported. The comment came shortly after the high-octane meeting between the NCP, the Congress and the Sena concluded this evening. Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: Tomorrow a press conference will be held by the three parties.Discussion are continuing. Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor (file pic) pic.twitter.com/fHfR2Q2GCO — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × "Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said. The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon government formation in Maharashtra. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. (With inputs from ANI)

Uddhav Thackeray to lead Maharashtra government, says Sharad Pawar after NCP, Congress, Shiv Sena meet concludes

Samajwadi Party (SP) patron Mulayam Singh Yadav on Friday celebrated his 80th birthday by cutting a massive cake weighing 81 Kilogram.

Mulayam's son and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present on the occasion.

The cake cutting ceremony was held in the presence of party workers and cadres.

As the Samajwadi party patron celebrates his birthday today, posters extending birthday greetings to Mulayam were also put up in front of the SP office as well as outside Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party's (PSP) office in the national capital.

Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also extended greetings to Mulayam on his birthday and had wished for his healthy, long and active life.

Yadav, who was born on November 22, 1939, first became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1989 and served for three non-consecutive terms from 1989 to 1991, 1993 to 1995, and 2003 to 2007.

He has also served as the Defence Minister from 1996 to 1998 during the rule of United Front government.

Yadav has served as the Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Azamgarh between 2014 and 2019. At present, he is the MP in the lower house from Mainpuri. 
&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party (SP) patron Mulayam Singh Yadav on Friday celebrated his 80th birthday by cutting a massive cake weighing 81 Kilogram. Mulayam's son and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present on the occasion.

Samajwadi Party (SP) patron Mulayam Singh Yadav on Friday celebrated his 80th birthday by cutting a massive cake weighing 81 Kilogram. Mulayam's son and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present on the occasion. The cake cutting ceremony was held in the presence of party workers and cadres. As the Samajwadi party patron celebrates his birthday today, posters extending birthday greetings to Mulayam were also put up in front of the SP office as well as outside Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party's (PSP) office in the national capital. Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also extended greetings to Mulayam on his birthday and had wished for his healthy, long and active life. Yadav, who was born on November 22, 1939, first became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1989 and served for three non-consecutive terms from 1989 to 1991, 1993 to 1995, and 2003 to 2007. He has also served as the Defence Minister from 1996 to 1998 during the rule of United Front government. Yadav has served as the Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Azamgarh between 2014 and 2019. At present, he is the MP in the lower house from Mainpuri.

Uttar Pradesh: Mulayam Singh Yadav celebrates 80th birthday with party workers

ISI is continuing to target defence personnel on social media for gathering information as a new case has come to light where a Pakistani intelligence operative automatically added an Indian Army officer to a Whatsapp group after which the force issued an advisory to its personnel to change their WhatsApp settings.

"A case has come to notice that an Army person was automatically added to a WhatsApp group by a suspected Pakistani number. The individual showed his presence of mind and exited the group after taking its screenshot," the Army advisory issued on November 11 said.

The advisory also said that it was clear that the Pakistani intelligence operatives are targeting Army personnel and their families have also been targeted in the past in social media chat applications such as WhatsApp.

"The above incident can be prevented and unwanted addition to any unauthorised or undesirable groups without consent can be stopped by changing the settings," the advisory said.

It suggested that Army officers and their families should change settings of their WhatsApp chats where they can be added to groups only by those people who are present in their contact list.

The advisory has come at a time when recently two Army jawans were virtually honey-trapped by Pakistani virtual spies who chat and interact with Indian defence personnel over social media applications to gain classified information.

In the last few years, there have been several cases where senior officers up to the rank of Group Captain have been compromised by the Pakistani spies using virtual women to trap Indian officers and jawans.

In a number of cases, the interactions between personnel and virtual social media IDs have started with a chat about military aspects leading to virtual honeytrap.In wake of such incidents, the Army has warned its personnel against being part of any unknown WhatsApp group and also barred them from displaying their military links there.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

ISI is continuing to target defence personnel on social media for gathering information as a new case has come to light where a Pakistani intelligence operative automatically added an Indian Army officer to a Whatsapp group after which the force issued an advisory to its personnel to change their WhatsApp settings.

ISI is continuing to target defence personnel on social media for gathering information as a new case has come to light where a Pakistani intelligence operative automatically added an Indian Army officer to a Whatsapp group after which the force issued an advisory to its personnel to change their WhatsApp settings. "A case has come to notice that an Army person was automatically added to a WhatsApp group by a suspected Pakistani number. The individual showed his presence of mind and exited the group after taking its screenshot," the Army advisory issued on November 11 said. The advisory also said that it was clear that the Pakistani intelligence operatives are targeting Army personnel and their families have also been targeted in the past in social media chat applications such as WhatsApp. "The above incident can be prevented and unwanted addition to any unauthorised or undesirable groups without consent can be stopped by changing the settings," the advisory said. It suggested that Army officers and their families should change settings of their WhatsApp chats where they can be added to groups only by those people who are present in their contact list. The advisory has come at a time when recently two Army jawans were virtually honey-trapped by Pakistani virtual spies who chat and interact with Indian defence personnel over social media applications to gain classified information. In the last few years, there have been several cases where senior officers up to the rank of Group Captain have been compromised by the Pakistani spies using virtual women to trap Indian officers and jawans. In a number of cases, the interactions between personnel and virtual social media IDs have started with a chat about military aspects leading to virtual honeytrap.In wake of such incidents, the Army has warned its personnel against being part of any unknown WhatsApp group and also barred them from displaying their military links there.

ISI targeting defence personnel on social media, Army asks officers to change WhatsApp settings

The Delhi Government on Friday waived the Development and Infrastructure charge levied on water and sewer connections in the national capital.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the people will only have to pay Rs 2,310 for a new water or sewer connection.

"Delhi Jal Board has taken some important decision. Whenever new pipelines were installed people did not opt for connection due to high Development and Infrastructure Charges. Later, people used to take the illegal connections and not the formal connection," he told reporters.

"When our government was formed, we used to charge Rs 500 per metre and we reduced to Rs 100 per metre. But we realised the charges are still too high. So, we have decided that Development and Infrastructure Charge for water and sewer will not be charged from today onwards. Now, the citizens will only have to pay Rs 2,310 for a new water or sewer connection irrespective of any plot," Kejriwal said.

He said that the people in large numbers will take water and sewer connections in areas where pipelines have already been laid.

"And people will come under network, so the unaccounted water will be reduced and will come in the mainstream," Kejriwal said.

The Chief Minister outlined that 93 per cent of Delhi is covered with water pipe now. He refused to comment on the water controversy and said, "I don't want to indulge in politics. They don't have anything to with water but to do dirty politics."

"When we formed the government, there were 2300 areas where polluted water was a problem now only 125 areas are," he said.

Kejriwal and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan are at loggerheads after a study conducted by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) said that the water quality in Delhi didn't meet its standards.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi Government on Friday waived the Development and Infrastructure charge levied on water and sewer connections in the national capital. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the people will only have to pay Rs 2,310 for a new water or sewer connection.

The Delhi Government on Friday waived the Development and Infrastructure charge levied on water and sewer connections in the national capital. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the people will only have to pay Rs 2,310 for a new water or sewer connection. "Delhi Jal Board has taken some important decision. Whenever new pipelines were installed people did not opt for connection due to high Development and Infrastructure Charges. Later, people used to take the illegal connections and not the formal connection," he told reporters. "When our government was formed, we used to charge Rs 500 per metre and we reduced to Rs 100 per metre. But we realised the charges are still too high. So, we have decided that Development and Infrastructure Charge for water and sewer will not be charged from today onwards. Now, the citizens will only have to pay Rs 2,310 for a new water or sewer connection irrespective of any plot," Kejriwal said. He said that the people in large numbers will take water and sewer connections in areas where pipelines have already been laid. "And people will come under network, so the unaccounted water will be reduced and will come in the mainstream," Kejriwal said. The Chief Minister outlined that 93 per cent of Delhi is covered with water pipe now. He refused to comment on the water controversy and said, "I don't want to indulge in politics. They don't have anything to with water but to do dirty politics." "When we formed the government, there were 2300 areas where polluted water was a problem now only 125 areas are," he said. Kejriwal and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan are at loggerheads after a study conducted by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) said that the water quality in Delhi didn't meet its standards.

Delhi government waives Development and Infrastructure Charge on water, sewer connections

After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats.

He also targeted the opposition saying, "there is no coordination in the Congress" and added rival's ally Janata Dal-United (JDU) will not fight these polls together.

"We do not forget anybody in our party. We have given responsibility to every leader and will work under target which has been set. BJP does not need to win eight seats, we require only six seats. But, I am confident that we will win all the 15 assembly constituencies.," he said while speaking to ANI.

"Both Congress and JDS were indulged in a war of words. There is no coordination inside the Congress. Siddaramaiah is alone in the Congress party. Congress and JDS will never come together again," the Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister said.

The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats.

After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats. He also targeted the opposition saying, "there is no coordination in the Congress" and added rival's ally Janata Dal-United (JDU) will not fight these polls together. "We do not forget anybody in our party. We have given responsibility to every leader and will work under target which has been set. BJP does not need to win eight seats, we require only six seats. But, I am confident that we will win all the 15 assembly constituencies.," he said while speaking to ANI. "Both Congress and JDS were indulged in a war of words. There is no coordination inside the Congress. Siddaramaiah is alone in the Congress party. Congress and JDS will never come together again," the Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister said. The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.

BJP confident of winning all 15 seats in Karnataka bypolls: Deputy CM Ashwath Narayan

Army Bomb Disposal team on Friday diffused an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 25 kg of high explosive on the National Highway-11 near Khudwani Bridge in Anantnag district.

"In a desperate attempt to inflict civilian casualties and terrorise the populace, terrorists planted an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 25 Kg of High Explosive on the NH-11 near Khudwani Bridge," the Army said in a statement.

The IED was detected by vigilant troops during the road clearance of NH undertaken on Thursday morning.

Following which, the site was cordoned off and Army Bomb Disposal teams were rushed to the location.

Despite the risk, the Bomb Disposal teams dug out the embedded IED comprising of two cylindrical containers of 15 and 10 kg each filled with explosives and destroyed it in situ.

The Army said if IED would have been initiated, it would have caused immense loss of precious lives and extensive damage to property, in addition to disrupting flow of traffic and creating panic in people."Such barbaric acts are an attempt to deter the situation from returning to normal," it said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Army Bomb Disposal team on Friday diffused an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 25 kg of high explosive on the National Highway-11 near Khudwani Bridge in Anantnag district.

Army Bomb Disposal team on Friday diffused an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 25 kg of high explosive on the National Highway-11 near Khudwani Bridge in Anantnag district. "In a desperate attempt to inflict civilian casualties and terrorise the populace, terrorists planted an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) containing 25 Kg of High Explosive on the NH-11 near Khudwani Bridge," the Army said in a statement. The IED was detected by vigilant troops during the road clearance of NH undertaken on Thursday morning. Following which, the site was cordoned off and Army Bomb Disposal teams were rushed to the location. Despite the risk, the Bomb Disposal teams dug out the embedded IED comprising of two cylindrical containers of 15 and 10 kg each filled with explosives and destroyed it in situ. The Army said if IED would have been initiated, it would have caused immense loss of precious lives and extensive damage to property, in addition to disrupting flow of traffic and creating panic in people."Such barbaric acts are an attempt to deter the situation from returning to normal," it said.

Jammu and Kashmir: Army diffuses IED planted by terrorists on NH-11

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-senas-chief-minister-will-rule-for-5-years-sanjay-raut-263824">ongoing political impasse in Maharashtra</a>. The minister stated that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad is able to form a government, "it will not go much ahead".

"This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

The minister said that the BJP and the Shiv Sena don't have much ideological differences.&nbsp;

"Breaking of such an alliance is a loss to the country," he added.

Gadkari further asserted that Congress strongly opposes the views of Shiv Sena and its vice versa.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a Congress Legislative party meet is underway at Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai.

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Maharashtra govt formation: This(Shiv Sena-NCP-Congresss) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government <a href="https://t.co/NMeH7S0GN8">https://t.co/NMeH7S0GN8</a> <a href="https://t.co/58ZHrqshk5">pic.twitter.com/58ZHrqshk5</a>
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Earlier NCP and Congress leaders met with leaders of other allies to hold discussions over the political situation of the state.

The NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena are holding hectic deliberations on the government formation in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted to the ongoing political impasse in Maharashtra. The minister stated that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad is able to form a government, "it will not go much ahead".

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday reacted to the ongoing political impasse in Maharashtra. The minister stated that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad is able to form a government, "it will not go much ahead". "This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI. The minister said that the BJP and the Shiv Sena don't have much ideological differences. "Breaking of such an alliance is a loss to the country," he added. Gadkari further asserted that Congress strongly opposes the views of Shiv Sena and its vice versa. Meanwhile, a Congress Legislative party meet is underway at Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Maharashtra govt formation: This(Shiv Sena-NCP-Congresss) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government https://t.co/NMeH7S0GN8 pic.twitter.com/58ZHrqshk5 — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × Earlier NCP and Congress leaders met with leaders of other allies to hold discussions over the political situation of the state. The NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena are holding hectic deliberations on the government formation in Maharashtra. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. (With inputs from ANI)

They won't give Maharashtra a stable government: Gadkari on Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena alliance

Delhi man faces arrest at IGI airport; Here's the report why?

At a time when the air quality in the national capital remains in 'very poor' category, BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi on Friday hit out at the AAP government over the issue of air pollution.

"The reason for the rise in air pollution in Delhi is Particulate Matter (PM).&nbsp;Stubble burning happens two weeks in a year and pollution remains less for the rest of the year," she told ANI.

Lekhi also said that all lawmakers in both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-come-to-well-of-the-house-ls-speaker-warns-opposition-mps-263571">Lok Sabha</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-rajya-sabha-takes-up-the-issue-of-air-pollution-263736">Rajya Sabha</a> were present during the discussion on air pollution. 
"All MPs were present and gave their views. There is a time allotted to every MP to speak.

Everyone was present (during the discussion on air pollution)," she said, adding that air pollution issue is related to the economy.

The overall <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-gasps-for-breath-as-quality-remains-in-very-poor-category-263759">Air Quality Index (AQI)</a> in the national capital docked at 347 on Friday, which falls in the 'very poor' category, according to SAFAR. In several places of the national capital, the AQI was in the 'very poor' zone while in some congested areas such as Wazirpur and ITO, the air quality plunged to the 'severe' category.

The air quality in the NCR region, particularly Ghaziabad, took a turn for the worse with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 414, which falls in the 'severe' category, according to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-air-quality-index-remains-in-very-poor-category-for-second-consecutive-day-262655">Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)</a>.

Lekhi also chided Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-in-india-bullet-resistant-jackets-are-safer-lighter-cheaper-paswan-253870">Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)</a> over its report on the quality of water.

"If the quality of water was good, then why people have installed RO systems in their homes. This is because the quality of the water is not good at many places in Delhi," Lekhi said.

On November 16, Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, while releasing the BIS report, had said that Mumbai's water quality was at the top, whereas the samples from Delhi had failed on 19 parameters. Following this, Kejriwal accused Paswan of "spreading lies" on the quality of Delhi's water.

Hitting back at the Chief Minister, Paswan said on Thursday that the test was conducted by the BIS and not by him and Delhi's water did not meet its standards. (ANI)

At a time when the air quality in the national capital remains in 'very poor' category, BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi on Friday hit out at the AAP government over the issue of air pollution.

At a time when the air quality in the national capital remains in 'very poor' category, BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi on Friday hit out at the AAP government over the issue of air pollution. "The reason for the rise in air pollution in Delhi is Particulate Matter (PM). Stubble burning happens two weeks in a year and pollution remains less for the rest of the year," she told ANI. Lekhi also said that all lawmakers in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were present during the discussion on air pollution. "All MPs were present and gave their views. There is a time allotted to every MP to speak. Everyone was present (during the discussion on air pollution)," she said, adding that air pollution issue is related to the economy. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital docked at 347 on Friday, which falls in the 'very poor' category, according to SAFAR. In several places of the national capital, the AQI was in the 'very poor' zone while in some congested areas such as Wazirpur and ITO, the air quality plunged to the 'severe' category. The air quality in the NCR region, particularly Ghaziabad, took a turn for the worse with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 414, which falls in the 'severe' category, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Lekhi also chided Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) over its report on the quality of water. "If the quality of water was good, then why people have installed RO systems in their homes. This is because the quality of the water is not good at many places in Delhi," Lekhi said. On November 16, Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, while releasing the BIS report, had said that Mumbai's water quality was at the top, whereas the samples from Delhi had failed on 19 parameters. Following this, Kejriwal accused Paswan of "spreading lies" on the quality of Delhi's water. Hitting back at the Chief Minister, Paswan said on Thursday that the test was conducted by the BIS and not by him and Delhi's water did not meet its standards. (ANI)

BJP's Minakshi Lekhi targets AAP over air pollution, quality of water in Delhi

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to the Central government and the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on a petition challenging the recent amendments to Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Act 2019, which allowed private entities to access the Aadhaar data.

The petition, jointly filed by retired Indian Army officer S G Vombatkare and human rights activist Bezwada Wilson, challenged the constitutional validity of the act.

A bench headed by Chief Justice B S Bobde sought their response and said that the case will be heard along with the petition challenging the ordinance on the same.

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to the Central government and the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on a petition challenging the recent amendments to Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Act 2019, which allowed private entities to access the Aadhaar data.

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to the Central government and the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on a petition challenging the recent amendments to Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Act 2019, which allowed private entities to access the Aadhaar data. The petition, jointly filed by retired Indian Army officer S G Vombatkare and human rights activist Bezwada Wilson, challenged the constitutional validity of the act. A bench headed by Chief Justice B S Bobde sought their response and said that the case will be heard along with the petition challenging the ordinance on the same.

Supreme Court issues notices on plea challenging Aadhaar data usage by private entities

Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on Friday visited Tihar jail to interrogate former Union finance minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media money laundering case.

A special court had yesterday granted permission to the ED to question Chidambaram and confront him with documents in jail on November 22 and 23.

The court had, however, refused to grant permission to the probe agency to record Chidambaram's statement under section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The ED had arrested Chidambaram last month and he is currently lodged in judicial custody in Tihar jail.

The case pertains to an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Finance Minister. Thereafter, a case was registered by the ED.

Chidambaram was granted bail by the Supreme Court on October 22 in the INX Media corruption case being probed by the CBI.&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on Friday visited Tihar jail to interrogate former Union finance minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media money laundering case.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on Friday visited Tihar jail to interrogate former Union finance minister P Chidambaram in connection with INX Media money laundering case. A special court had yesterday granted permission to the ED to question Chidambaram and confront him with documents in jail on November 22 and 23. The court had, however, refused to grant permission to the probe agency to record Chidambaram's statement under section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED had arrested Chidambaram last month and he is currently lodged in judicial custody in Tihar jail. The case pertains to an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Finance Minister. Thereafter, a case was registered by the ED. Chidambaram was granted bail by the Supreme Court on October 22 in the INX Media corruption case being probed by the CBI.

INX media case: Enforcement Directorate visits Tihar jail to interrogate P Chidambaram

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has denied allegations by British Labour Party politician Peter Hain that the bank facilitated corruption in South Africa under the rule of former President Jacob Zuma.

Hain told an inquiry panel last week that HSBC, Standard Chartered and BoB were directly culpable in looting South Africa treasury under Zuma, who resigned in February 2018 after several allegations of corruption during his nine-year administration.

"The operations of BoB in South Africa were governed and conducted in accordance with the regulations and guidelines of the South African Reserve Bank and Reserve Bank of India," said BoB in a statement.

"We confirm that BoB South Africa has not indulged in any activity violating regulatory guidelines knowingly. Transactions were carried out in a professional and transparent manner and we are totally committed to comply with rules and regulations laid out by the governing bodies and regulators."

Zuma has been accused of having a corrupt relationship with members of the India-born Gupta family and even letting them interfere in ministerial appointments.

Brothers Ajay, Atul and Rajesh Gupta -- all in their 40s -- had reportedly relocated to South Africa from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh during 1993, just as white minority rule was ending and the country was opening up to the rest of the world.

BoB said client confidentiality prohibits it from disclosing specific client-related information.

"We would also like to state that the business dealings and transactions undertaken by the South African territory have been extensively examined by the regulator through external agencies and the reports thereon have been submitted to the regulators."

The bank also continues to fully cooperate with the law enforcement agencies including State Capture Inquiry Commission, has responded and supported all enquiries by regulators, and provided full details as and when sought, it added.

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has denied allegations by British Labour Party politician Peter Hain that the bank facilitated corruption in South Africa under the rule of former President Jacob Zuma.

Bank of Baroda (BoB) has denied allegations by British Labour Party politician Peter Hain that the bank facilitated corruption in South Africa under the rule of former President Jacob Zuma. Hain told an inquiry panel last week that HSBC, Standard Chartered and BoB were directly culpable in looting South Africa treasury under Zuma, who resigned in February 2018 after several allegations of corruption during his nine-year administration. "The operations of BoB in South Africa were governed and conducted in accordance with the regulations and guidelines of the South African Reserve Bank and Reserve Bank of India," said BoB in a statement. "We confirm that BoB South Africa has not indulged in any activity violating regulatory guidelines knowingly. Transactions were carried out in a professional and transparent manner and we are totally committed to comply with rules and regulations laid out by the governing bodies and regulators." Zuma has been accused of having a corrupt relationship with members of the India-born Gupta family and even letting them interfere in ministerial appointments. Brothers Ajay, Atul and Rajesh Gupta -- all in their 40s -- had reportedly relocated to South Africa from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh during 1993, just as white minority rule was ending and the country was opening up to the rest of the world. BoB said client confidentiality prohibits it from disclosing specific client-related information. "We would also like to state that the business dealings and transactions undertaken by the South African territory have been extensively examined by the regulator through external agencies and the reports thereon have been submitted to the regulators." The bank also continues to fully cooperate with the law enforcement agencies including State Capture Inquiry Commission, has responded and supported all enquiries by regulators, and provided full details as and when sought, it added.

Bank of Baroda denies allegations of corruption in South Africa operations

Maharashtra election stalemate: Sharad Pawar meets Uddhav Thackeray amid speculations. Watch video to know more.

Maharashtra election stalemate: Sharad Pawar meets Uddhav Thackeray amid speculations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-adjourns-hearing-on-plea-seeking-linkage-of-aadhaar-to-properties-263426">Delhi High Court</a> has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. 
 
"The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.28 per cent shareholding in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd, till December 16," Reliance Capital informed stock exchanges in regulatory filings. 
 
The formal order of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-p-chidambarams-bail-plea-262420">high court</a> is awaited. "The company will take all appropriate steps in the matter as legally advised, including to file an appeal against the said order to protect the interests of its lenders and other stakeholders," it said late on Wednesday. 
 
In late September, Ambani said the company suffered great collateral damage over the last six months due to a combination of factors, including the crisis in financial services sector, irrational action by auditors and rating agencies, and now slowdown of the Indian economy. 
 
As a part of the transformation process, Reliance Capital will no more be in any of the lending businesses. 
 
The company had repaid over Rs 35,000 crore in debt over the past 15 months. It is close to repaying another Rs 15,000 crore by March 2020 despite zero funding from any bank, NBFC or financial institution, Reliance Capital says.

Delhi High Court has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. "The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.

Delhi High Court has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. "The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.28 per cent shareholding in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd, till December 16," Reliance Capital informed stock exchanges in regulatory filings. The formal order of the high court is awaited. "The company will take all appropriate steps in the matter as legally advised, including to file an appeal against the said order to protect the interests of its lenders and other stakeholders," it said late on Wednesday. In late September, Ambani said the company suffered great collateral damage over the last six months due to a combination of factors, including the crisis in financial services sector, irrational action by auditors and rating agencies, and now slowdown of the Indian economy. As a part of the transformation process, Reliance Capital will no more be in any of the lending businesses. The company had repaid over Rs 35,000 crore in debt over the past 15 months. It is close to repaying another Rs 15,000 crore by March 2020 despite zero funding from any bank, NBFC or financial institution, Reliance Capital says.

Delhi High Courts halts asset sale of Reliance Capital

Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Finland for strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector.

The MoU seeks to establish the basis for a cooperative relationship to encourage and promote successful bilateral cooperation in the field of tourism, sharing data, knowledge, expertise in the field of tourism.

The two countries will also be sharing experiences in making policies, regulation and standards in planning, implementation and development of tourism policy.

It also aims at "facilitating the identification and expansion of joint projects, pilots and partnerships between companies and organisations through visits, meetings, workshops, co-creation sessions and site evaluations", an official release said.

India and Finland will also be exchanging best practices through workshops and study visits for experts of the two countries on cooperation.

"India and Finland have enjoyed a strong diplomatic and long economic relationship. The two parties now desiring to strengthen and further develop the established relationship have signed an MoU between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Government for Finland for strengthening cooperation in the field of tourism," the government said.

It further said that Finland is one of the emerging inbound source markets for India.

"In 2018, 21,239 Finnish tourists visited India. The signing of MoU with Finland will be instrumental in increasing arrival from this source market," it said.

The meeting of the Union Cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Narendra Modi</a> here.

Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Finland for strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector. The MoU seeks to establish the basis for a cooperative relationship to encourage and promote successful bilateral cooperation in the field of tourism, sharing data, knowledge, expertise in the field of tourism.

Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Finland for strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector. The MoU seeks to establish the basis for a cooperative relationship to encourage and promote successful bilateral cooperation in the field of tourism, sharing data, knowledge, expertise in the field of tourism. The two countries will also be sharing experiences in making policies, regulation and standards in planning, implementation and development of tourism policy. It also aims at "facilitating the identification and expansion of joint projects, pilots and partnerships between companies and organisations through visits, meetings, workshops, co-creation sessions and site evaluations", an official release said. India and Finland will also be exchanging best practices through workshops and study visits for experts of the two countries on cooperation. "India and Finland have enjoyed a strong diplomatic and long economic relationship. The two parties now desiring to strengthen and further develop the established relationship have signed an MoU between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, Government for Finland for strengthening cooperation in the field of tourism," the government said. It further said that Finland is one of the emerging inbound source markets for India. "In 2018, 21,239 Finnish tourists visited India. The signing of MoU with Finland will be instrumental in increasing arrival from this source market," it said. The meeting of the Union Cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi here.

Union Cabinet approves MoU with Finland in tourism

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">Winter Session </a>of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people.

The Bill will help in allowing the registration of properties and provide relief to the residents in Unauthorised Colonies (DCs) of Delhi from registration charges and stamp duty.

Nearly 40 lakh people reside in 1,731 unauthorised colonies located on private or public land in Delhi.

An official release said that properties, whether in the form of a plot of land or built-up space are generally held through General Power of Attorney (GPA, will, agreement to sale and payment and possession documents.

It said the properties in these colonies are not being registered by registration authorities and the residents do not have any title documents in respect of such properties. The banks and financial institutions do not extend any credit facilities.

The proposed bill envisages to recognize GPA, will, agreement to sell, purchase and possession documents as a special one-time relaxation for the residents of UCs in Delhi.

It seeks to provide for registration charge and stamp duty to be levied on the value mentioned in conveyance deed or authorisation slip and for its applicability on last transaction only.

The above relief provisions will benefit more than 40 lakh people living in 1,731 Unauthorised Colonies of Delhi as mentioned in the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Regulations, 2019 notified in October this year.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the Winter Session of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the Winter Session of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people. The Bill will help in allowing the registration of properties and provide relief to the residents in Unauthorised Colonies (DCs) of Delhi from registration charges and stamp duty. Nearly 40 lakh people reside in 1,731 unauthorised colonies located on private or public land in Delhi. An official release said that properties, whether in the form of a plot of land or built-up space are generally held through General Power of Attorney (GPA, will, agreement to sale and payment and possession documents. It said the properties in these colonies are not being registered by registration authorities and the residents do not have any title documents in respect of such properties. The banks and financial institutions do not extend any credit facilities. The proposed bill envisages to recognize GPA, will, agreement to sell, purchase and possession documents as a special one-time relaxation for the residents of UCs in Delhi. It seeks to provide for registration charge and stamp duty to be levied on the value mentioned in conveyance deed or authorisation slip and for its applicability on last transaction only. The above relief provisions will benefit more than 40 lakh people living in 1,731 Unauthorised Colonies of Delhi as mentioned in the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Regulations, 2019 notified in October this year.

Union Cabinet approves bill for ownership rights in 1,731 unauthorised colonies of Delhi

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) blamed the Vice-Chancellor M Jagadesh Kumar for the continuance of the crisis in the university and urged the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delegation-of-jnu-students-reaches-ministry-of-human-resources-development-263357">Ministry of Human Resource Development</a> (MHRD) to remove him from his post.

"The JNUSU and the elected councillors met the High Power Committee constituted by the MHRD at Shastri Bhawan today. We apprised the committee of our strong concerns at the functioning of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-administration-to-take-stringent-action-against-students-over-criminal-vandalism-262743">JNU administration</a> and repeated violations of the statutory provisions of the university... The JNUSU has emphasized time and again our attempts and appeal to start a dialogue process. It is a commentary on this character of this administration and the VC who heads it, that they have willfully denied appearing before the committee," a press release by the JNUSU on Wednesday read.

"If this is the attitude of the administration, the MHRD should consider the removal of an incompetent Vice-Chancellor. It was impressed upon the Committee that until M Jagadesh Kumar remains the JNU VC, normalcy will be a far cry in the JNU Campus," the release added.

During the course of the meeting, the JNUSU also pointed out that it seeks to arrive at a new manual through an acceptable deliberative process.

"The current manual disregards affirmative action and does not guarantee reservations to SC, ST and PwD students in hostel seats which we cannot accept," the JNUSU said in its release.

The release added that the students union welcomed the process of engagement with the MHRD and looked forward to the meetings ahead over the crisis.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) blamed the Vice-Chancellor M Jagadesh Kumar for the continuance of the crisis in the university and urged the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) to remove him from his post.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) blamed the Vice-Chancellor M Jagadesh Kumar for the continuance of the crisis in the university and urged the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) to remove him from his post. "The JNUSU and the elected councillors met the High Power Committee constituted by the MHRD at Shastri Bhawan today. We apprised the committee of our strong concerns at the functioning of the JNU administration and repeated violations of the statutory provisions of the university... The JNUSU has emphasized time and again our attempts and appeal to start a dialogue process. It is a commentary on this character of this administration and the VC who heads it, that they have willfully denied appearing before the committee," a press release by the JNUSU on Wednesday read. "If this is the attitude of the administration, the MHRD should consider the removal of an incompetent Vice-Chancellor. It was impressed upon the Committee that until M Jagadesh Kumar remains the JNU VC, normalcy will be a far cry in the JNU Campus," the release added. During the course of the meeting, the JNUSU also pointed out that it seeks to arrive at a new manual through an acceptable deliberative process. "The current manual disregards affirmative action and does not guarantee reservations to SC, ST and PwD students in hostel seats which we cannot accept," the JNUSU said in its release. The release added that the students union welcomed the process of engagement with the MHRD and looked forward to the meetings ahead over the crisis.

JNUSU urges MHRD to remove Vice-Chancellor to solve university crisis

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airtel-vodafone-idea-to-hike-data-rates-stock-prices-surge-263162">telecom services sector</a> in the country.

"We welcome the fact that the government recognises the financial distress of the telecom sector and has provided relief in the form of deferments of spectrum payments. We are very thankful to our Minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/121-indian-users-targeted-in-pegasus-spyware-attack-full-extent-may-never-be-known-whatsapp-263433">Ravi Shankar Prasad</a> and the DoT for supporting us and pushing forward our request to the Finance Minister for action. This will certainly provide some immediate cash flow relief to the industry," a note by the DG, COAI Rajan S Mathews on Wednesday read.

The Department of Telecommunication will now give an option to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to defer payment of the spectrum auction instalments due for 2020-21 and 2021-22, either for one or both years.

"These deferred amounts bill be spread equally in the remaining instalments to be paid by TSPs. Interest, as stipulated while auctioning of the concerned spectrum, will, however, be charged so that NPV is protected," an official release from Cabinet said.

According to the release, the decision for deferring spectrum payment instalments for two years will be implemented within a fortnight.

The COAI, however, added that the high level of levies and taxes continue to be a challenge for the telecom sector.

"The telcos pay up to 30 per cent&nbsp;of their revenues to the government, by way of various levies and taxes, which is an enormous burden on the industry," the note by DG, COAI read.

It also urged the government to rationalise the level of taxes and levies through its note.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the telecom services sector in the country.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval for the proposal of mitigating financial stress being faced by the telecom services sector in the country. "We welcome the fact that the government recognises the financial distress of the telecom sector and has provided relief in the form of deferments of spectrum payments. We are very thankful to our Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad and the DoT for supporting us and pushing forward our request to the Finance Minister for action. This will certainly provide some immediate cash flow relief to the industry," a note by the DG, COAI Rajan S Mathews on Wednesday read. The Department of Telecommunication will now give an option to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to defer payment of the spectrum auction instalments due for 2020-21 and 2021-22, either for one or both years. "These deferred amounts bill be spread equally in the remaining instalments to be paid by TSPs. Interest, as stipulated while auctioning of the concerned spectrum, will, however, be charged so that NPV is protected," an official release from Cabinet said. According to the release, the decision for deferring spectrum payment instalments for two years will be implemented within a fortnight. The COAI, however, added that the high level of levies and taxes continue to be a challenge for the telecom sector. "The telcos pay up to 30 per cent of their revenues to the government, by way of various levies and taxes, which is an enormous burden on the industry," the note by DG, COAI read. It also urged the government to rationalise the level of taxes and levies through its note.

COAI welcomes Union Cabinet's move to ease stress on telecom services sector

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-struggle-congress-ncp-say-discussions-positive-will-give-stable-govt-soon-263474">will form government in Maharashtra</a> before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena. 
 
He also informed that three parties will collectively decide about power-sharing in Mumbai. 
 
"The time has come, before December 1 the process of formation of the government will be over and the Chief Minister will also be decided. Till yesterday, marathon meetings of Congress-NCP were held here at the NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's residence. In the next two days we will move ahead towards government formation," said Sanjay Raut. 
 
"The three parties will collectively decide on power-sharing in Mumbai," he added. 
 
"The chief minister will be of Shiv Sena. People want Uddhav Thackeray to be the Chief Minister," said Raut. 
 
A meeting of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders was held at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's residence on Wednesday over the government formation in Maharashtra.

Watch: Will the political impasse in Maharashtra extend?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-maharashtra-elections-will-the-political-impasse-extend-261485/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Leaders from both the parties were present including Ahmed Patel, KC Venugopal, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Sule among others. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Maharashtra came under President's Rule</a> after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 
 
BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the chief minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. 
 
Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. 
 
The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. 
The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. 
 
The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party will form government in Maharashtra before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party will form government in Maharashtra before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena. He also informed that three parties will collectively decide about power-sharing in Mumbai. "The time has come, before December 1 the process of formation of the government will be over and the Chief Minister will also be decided. Till yesterday, marathon meetings of Congress-NCP were held here at the NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's residence. In the next two days we will move ahead towards government formation," said Sanjay Raut. "The three parties will collectively decide on power-sharing in Mumbai," he added. "The chief minister will be of Shiv Sena. People want Uddhav Thackeray to be the Chief Minister," said Raut. A meeting of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders was held at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's residence on Wednesday over the government formation in Maharashtra. Watch: Will the political impasse in Maharashtra extend? Leaders from both the parties were present including Ahmed Patel, KC Venugopal, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Sule among others. Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the chief minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena triad to form Maharashtra government before December 1: Sanjay Raut

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modi-government-20-must-focus-on-fixing-indias-economy-263158">Narendra Modi</a> will address the Accountants General and Deputy Accountants General Conclave in Delhi today.

Additionally, he will also unveil a statue of Mahatma Gandhi before his speech.

The theme of the conclave is "Transforming Audit and Assurance in a Digital World".

Watch: PM Modi addresses 250th session of Parliament's Upper House

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-addresses-in-the-250th-session-of-the-upper-house-of-parliament-262899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Panel discussions and group discussions are to be held to discuss ways to transform the department into a technology-led organisation, given how Government is increasingly being data-driven in today's fast-changing policy and governance environment," read an official statement.

It is being held to consolidate experience and learning, and chart out the path of Indian Audit and Accounts Department for the next few years.

"Efforts are also on to institutionalize knowledge base, leverage IT-based platform to curate knowledge resources and develop anytime, anywhere learning and IT-based toolkits for auditors. In the last few years the Indian Audit and Accounts Department has moved towards transforming audit to meet challenges in the new age, technology-driven India," the statement added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Accountants General and Deputy Accountants General Conclave in Delhi today. Additionally, he will also unveil a statue of Mahatma Gandhi before his speech.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Accountants General and Deputy Accountants General Conclave in Delhi today. Additionally, he will also unveil a statue of Mahatma Gandhi before his speech. The theme of the conclave is "Transforming Audit and Assurance in a Digital World". Watch: PM Modi addresses 250th session of Parliament's Upper House "Panel discussions and group discussions are to be held to discuss ways to transform the department into a technology-led organisation, given how Government is increasingly being data-driven in today's fast-changing policy and governance environment," read an official statement. It is being held to consolidate experience and learning, and chart out the path of Indian Audit and Accounts Department for the next few years. "Efforts are also on to institutionalize knowledge base, leverage IT-based platform to curate knowledge resources and develop anytime, anywhere learning and IT-based toolkits for auditors. In the last few years the Indian Audit and Accounts Department has moved towards transforming audit to meet challenges in the new age, technology-driven India," the statement added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address conclave of accountants in Delhi today

PM Modi addresses in the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament. Let's listen in...

PM Modi addresses the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-index-to-be-bad-today-may-worsen-in-upcoming-days-263285">air quality in Delhi-NCR</a> plunged into 'very poor' category again on Thursday and is expected to drop to 'severe' by tomorrow, as per the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The Air Quality Index (AQI) today was recorded at 312 with PM 10 at 142 and PM 2.5 at 72.

"The overall Delhi AQI is in the very poor category and is slowly declining and may further deteriorate by tomorrow towards the higher end of the very poor scale and may touch 'severe' in some parts of Delhi by November 22," stated the organisation in its advisory. 
 
The pollution in Delhi can be attributed to two factors - slow surface winds in Delhi, and increasing fire counts compared to last week. Additionally, stubble level winds from the burning sites will contribute to the pollution.

However, transport-level winds are likely to be highly variable in direction and may fluctuate between Easterly to Northerly and may not bring significant stubble impact to Delhi tomorrow. 
 
"The pollution level in Delhi which use to be around 100-200 is reaching 600 levels on AQI. It is very dangerous for people. It is increasing cardiovascular diseases along with lung-related diseases. People having chronic diseases and bronchitis asthma are the worst hit," said Manoj Kumar, Director of the Department of Cardiology at a private hospital.

Watch: Delhi pollution - an annual nightmare

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-pollution-an-annual-nightmare-259566/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The increase in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-improves-slightly-in-delhi-safar-says-relief-temporary-263072">toxic air in and around Delhi</a> is causing problems for the residents, making them susceptible to&nbsp;lung-related diseases and also cardiovascular diseases.

Pollution in Northern India spikes every during this season due to changing weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground.

(With inputs from ANI)

The air quality in Delhi-NCR plunged into 'very poor' category again on Thursday and is expected to drop to 'severe' by tomorrow, as per the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The air quality in Delhi-NCR plunged into 'very poor' category again on Thursday and is expected to drop to 'severe' by tomorrow, as per the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The Air Quality Index (AQI) today was recorded at 312 with PM 10 at 142 and PM 2.5 at 72. "The overall Delhi AQI is in the very poor category and is slowly declining and may further deteriorate by tomorrow towards the higher end of the very poor scale and may touch 'severe' in some parts of Delhi by November 22," stated the organisation in its advisory. The pollution in Delhi can be attributed to two factors - slow surface winds in Delhi, and increasing fire counts compared to last week. Additionally, stubble level winds from the burning sites will contribute to the pollution. However, transport-level winds are likely to be highly variable in direction and may fluctuate between Easterly to Northerly and may not bring significant stubble impact to Delhi tomorrow. "The pollution level in Delhi which use to be around 100-200 is reaching 600 levels on AQI. It is very dangerous for people. It is increasing cardiovascular diseases along with lung-related diseases. People having chronic diseases and bronchitis asthma are the worst hit," said Manoj Kumar, Director of the Department of Cardiology at a private hospital. Watch: Delhi pollution - an annual nightmare The increase in the toxic air in and around Delhi is causing problems for the residents, making them susceptible to lung-related diseases and also cardiovascular diseases. Pollution in Northern India spikes every during this season due to changing weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi-NCR: Air quality dips to 'very poor', might drop to 'severe' category

Emphasising that the strength of the institution lies in the Bar, Chief Justice of India Sharad Arvind Bobde on Thursday asserted that mental well-being of members of the Bar and Bench is important.

While speaking at the feliciation function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), Chief Justice Bobde said "We must not live in hubris where only physical well being is important. Wellbeing is not only restricted to physical well-being but also mental. It is important for members of the Bar and Bench."

He also stressed that the strength of the institution lies in the Bar. "The Bar is the mother of Bench, after all, most of the judges start their career from it," he added.

"For 19 years I was a judge and the memories of being an advocate are fresh in my mind. I was part of the Bar for 22 years, so believe me when I say I know it all," he said.

New CJI, Bobde, has succeeded Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after remaining in office for over 13 months.

Bobde was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court of India on April 12, 2013. He will retire as CJI on April 23, 2021.

Emphasising that the strength of the institution lies in the Bar, Chief Justice of India Sharad Arvind Bobde on Thursday asserted that mental well-being of members of the Bar and Bench is important.

Emphasising that the strength of the institution lies in the Bar, Chief Justice of India Sharad Arvind Bobde on Thursday asserted that mental well-being of members of the Bar and Bench is important. While speaking at the feliciation function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), Chief Justice Bobde said "We must not live in hubris where only physical well being is important. Wellbeing is not only restricted to physical well-being but also mental. It is important for members of the Bar and Bench." He also stressed that the strength of the institution lies in the Bar. "The Bar is the mother of Bench, after all, most of the judges start their career from it," he added. "For 19 years I was a judge and the memories of being an advocate are fresh in my mind. I was part of the Bar for 22 years, so believe me when I say I know it all," he said. New CJI, Bobde, has succeeded Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after remaining in office for over 13 months. Bobde was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court of India on April 12, 2013. He will retire as CJI on April 23, 2021.

Mental well-being of Bar and bench members important: CJI Bobde

On Wednesday night, India successfully conducted a test-firing of two Prithvi ballistic missiles off the coast of Odisha.

The army is planning a series of user trials from a test range off the coast of Odisha.

Prithvi-2 is an indigenously developed nuclear-capable surface-to-surface missile.

Earlier this month, India also carried out a similar night-time test firing of 2,000 kilometres strike range <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-carries-out-successful-night-time-test-firing-of-agni-2-ballistic-missile-262631">Agni -2 ballistic missile</a>.

The test last night was carried out under the supervision of Strategic Forces Command.

On Wednesday night, India successfully conducted a test-firing of two Prithvi ballistic missiles off the coast of Odisha. The army is planning a series of user trials from a test range off the coast of Odisha.

On Wednesday night, India successfully conducted a test-firing of two Prithvi ballistic missiles off the coast of Odisha. The army is planning a series of user trials from a test range off the coast of Odisha. Prithvi-2 is an indigenously developed nuclear-capable surface-to-surface missile. Earlier this month, India also carried out a similar night-time test firing of 2,000 kilometres strike range Agni -2 ballistic missile. The test last night was carried out under the supervision of Strategic Forces Command.

India test fires Prithvi-2 ballistic missile off Odisha coast

The upper house of the Indian Parliament Rajya Sabha takes up the issue of air pollution. Watch this video to find out more.

Your Story: Rajya Sabha takes up the issue of air pollution

Journalist Priya Ramani on Thursday told a court here that she had no 'mala fide' and 'extraneous' motive for making sexual harassment allegations former Union Minister MJ Akbar.

During her cross-examination in a defamation case filed by Akbar, Ramani said that it would be wrong to suggest that her allegations harmed the reputation of the complainant -- MJ Akbar.

The cross-examination of Ramani and her friend Nilofer was conducted before Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Vishal Pahuja as the case was transferred to his court by ACMM Samar Vishal.

"It is wrong to suggest that my Tweets and publication had nothing to do with 'doing the right thing'. It is wrong to suggest that what I have done by publishing the Tweets was wrong, defamatory and malicious," she submitted before the court.

"It is wrong to suggest that my conduct as a journalist has been unethical as I had neither identified my sources nor attributed credits," she replied during the cross-examination. 
Earlier, Nilofer's statement was recorded before ACMM Samar Vishal during which she briefly narrated the alleged incident of Ramani's harassment.

"I was at Nariman Point (in Mumbai) when Priya requested me to meet one hour before the interview so that I can prepare her for the interview. She came at around 6 and met at Promenade. I asked her current affairs questions which I imagined that she could be asked during the interview. A few minutes before 7, we walked to Oberoi where I dropped her and came back," Nilofer said.

"Later that night, Priya called me on my landline. She sounded upset and distort. I asked her -- Why? She told me that the interview had not gone as we discussed. To begin, the interview did not happen in a coffee shop or restaurant but was straight up called to Akbar's room."

She continued: "Ramani described feeling extremely uncomfortable as he offered her an alcoholic drink and was himself drinking the same. She also described him singing old Hindi songs, which is highly unprofessional."

"At one point, she explained as to how Akbar patted a portion of the sofa and asked her to sit close to him. The details she described were so bizarre and inappropriate that I have a picture of it in my mind till this day," Nilofer narrated.

Senior advocate Geeta Luthra, appearing for MJ Akbar, objected to Nilofer's statement.

"She is like the third ghost in the room. She must have seen the colour of the Vodka," Luthra contended.

Another witness will be cross-examined on December 10, on the next date of hearing in a criminal defamation complaint filed by Akbar against Ramani for accusing him of sexual misconduct.&nbsp;

Journalist Priya Ramani on Thursday told a court here that she had no 'mala fide' and 'extraneous' motive for making sexual harassment allegations former Union Minister MJ Akbar.

Journalist Priya Ramani on Thursday told a court here that she had no 'mala fide' and 'extraneous' motive for making sexual harassment allegations former Union Minister MJ Akbar. During her cross-examination in a defamation case filed by Akbar, Ramani said that it would be wrong to suggest that her allegations harmed the reputation of the complainant -- MJ Akbar. The cross-examination of Ramani and her friend Nilofer was conducted before Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Vishal Pahuja as the case was transferred to his court by ACMM Samar Vishal. "It is wrong to suggest that my Tweets and publication had nothing to do with 'doing the right thing'. It is wrong to suggest that what I have done by publishing the Tweets was wrong, defamatory and malicious," she submitted before the court. "It is wrong to suggest that my conduct as a journalist has been unethical as I had neither identified my sources nor attributed credits," she replied during the cross-examination. Earlier, Nilofer's statement was recorded before ACMM Samar Vishal during which she briefly narrated the alleged incident of Ramani's harassment. "I was at Nariman Point (in Mumbai) when Priya requested me to meet one hour before the interview so that I can prepare her for the interview. She came at around 6 and met at Promenade. I asked her current affairs questions which I imagined that she could be asked during the interview. A few minutes before 7, we walked to Oberoi where I dropped her and came back," Nilofer said. "Later that night, Priya called me on my landline. She sounded upset and distort. I asked her -- Why? She told me that the interview had not gone as we discussed. To begin, the interview did not happen in a coffee shop or restaurant but was straight up called to Akbar's room." She continued: "Ramani described feeling extremely uncomfortable as he offered her an alcoholic drink and was himself drinking the same. She also described him singing old Hindi songs, which is highly unprofessional." "At one point, she explained as to how Akbar patted a portion of the sofa and asked her to sit close to him. The details she described were so bizarre and inappropriate that I have a picture of it in my mind till this day," Nilofer narrated. Senior advocate Geeta Luthra, appearing for MJ Akbar, objected to Nilofer's statement. "She is like the third ghost in the room. She must have seen the colour of the Vodka," Luthra contended. Another witness will be cross-examined on December 10, on the next date of hearing in a criminal defamation complaint filed by Akbar against Ramani for accusing him of sexual misconduct.

No mala fide motive for making allegations against MJ Akbar: Priya Ramani

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