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The Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed 10 rebel Congress-JDS MLAs of Karnataka to meet state Assembly Speaker in the evening today and serve their resignation if "they wish to do so".

"Meet the Karnataka Assembly Speaker at 6 pm today and submit their resignations if they so wish." the top court stated, adding that, "security would be provided to the MLAs." State DGP has been directed to provide protection to all the rebel MLAs.

The apex court also noted that the Karnataka Speaker will have to take a call on the issue in remaining part the day.&nbsp;

The matter has been posted for next hearing on July 12.&nbsp;

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The Supreme Court says Karnataka Speaker has to take a decision in remaining part the day. The Court also ordered the DGP of Karnataka to provide protection to all the rebel MLAs and adjourned the hearing for tomorrow (July 12). <a href="https://t.co/ih2fE1AKR3">https://t.co/ih2fE1AKR3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1149193322734477312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amidst-crisis-kumaraswamy-to-chair-cabinet-meeting-today-234806">Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy</a> will be holding a cabinet meeting at Vidhan Soudha in Bangalore today.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-congress-minister-shivakumar-arrives-in-mumbai-to-meet-rebel-mlas-234501">Karnataka Water Minister</a> returned to Bangalore on Wednesday from Mumbai late in the evening after he was detained by Mumbai Police and not allowed to meet the rebel MLAs who are currently lodged at a Mumbai hotel.

Shivakumar said it was a "matter of shame" that he was "forcefully deported" back to Bangalore.

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Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengaluru</a>: We have confidence that the MLAs will be with us. I hope they will come back and withdraw their resignation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/qmfqPsPRee">pic.twitter.com/qmfqPsPRee</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1149201706187730945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Mumbai is known for its hospitality. I had booked a room there and was on an official visit to meet my friends and colleagues, but BJP and officials misused their authority. It's a matter of shame," Shivakumar told ANI.

On Thursday, Shivakumar expressed hope that the MLAs will be with the coalition and take back their resignation.&nbsp;

"We have confidence that the MLAs will be with us. I hope they will come back and withdraw their resignation," he told reporters today.&nbsp;

The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week.

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed 10 rebel Congress-JDS MLAs of Karnataka to meet state Assembly Speaker in the evening today and serve their resignation if "they wish to do so".

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday directed 10 rebel Congress-JDS MLAs of Karnataka to meet state Assembly Speaker in the evening today and serve their resignation if "they wish to do so". "Meet the Karnataka Assembly Speaker at 6 pm today and submit their resignations if they so wish." the top court stated, adding that, "security would be provided to the MLAs." State DGP has been directed to provide protection to all the rebel MLAs. The apex court also noted that the Karnataka Speaker will have to take a call on the issue in remaining part the day. The matter has been posted for next hearing on July 12. The Supreme Court says Karnataka Speaker has to take a decision in remaining part the day. The Court also ordered the DGP of Karnataka to provide protection to all the rebel MLAs and adjourned the hearing for tomorrow (July 12). https://t.co/ih2fE1AKR3 — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2019 × Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy will be holding a cabinet meeting at Vidhan Soudha in Bangalore today. Karnataka Water Minister returned to Bangalore on Wednesday from Mumbai late in the evening after he was detained by Mumbai Police and not allowed to meet the rebel MLAs who are currently lodged at a Mumbai hotel. Shivakumar said it was a "matter of shame" that he was "forcefully deported" back to Bangalore. Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar in #Bengaluru: We have confidence that the MLAs will be with us. I hope they will come back and withdraw their resignation. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/qmfqPsPRee — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2019 × "Mumbai is known for its hospitality. I had booked a room there and was on an official visit to meet my friends and colleagues, but BJP and officials misused their authority. It's a matter of shame," Shivakumar told ANI. On Thursday, Shivakumar expressed hope that the MLAs will be with the coalition and take back their resignation. "We have confidence that the MLAs will be with us. I hope they will come back and withdraw their resignation," he told reporters today. The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week.

Meet Karnataka Assembly Speaker at 6pm today: Supreme Court directs rebel Karnataka MLAs

Pakistan troops on Wednesday night violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch's Digwar sector, an official said today.

"The Indian Army has given a befitting reply. No death or injury has been reported," he added.

On Monday, Pakistan Rangers violated the ceasefire along the LoC in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. A civilian was injured in the cross-firing.

Meanwhile, two Army personnel were injured in Pakistani firing in the district's Romali Dhara area of Nowshera sector last week.

On July 1, Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the Line of Control (LoC) in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.

Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.&nbsp; 
 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan troops on Wednesday night violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch's Digwar sector, an official said today. "The Indian Army has given a befitting reply.

Pakistan troops on Wednesday night violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch's Digwar sector, an official said today. "The Indian Army has given a befitting reply. No death or injury has been reported," he added. On Monday, Pakistan Rangers violated the ceasefire along the LoC in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. A civilian was injured in the cross-firing. Meanwhile, two Army personnel were injured in Pakistani firing in the district's Romali Dhara area of Nowshera sector last week. On July 1, Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the Line of Control (LoC) in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha. Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday ordered the mediation panel to submit a detailed status report on the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute case by July 18.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court bench headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi took the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-progress-made-in-ayodhya-case-plaintiff-tells-supreme-court-234343">plaintiff’s plea</a> into consideration.&nbsp;

The plaintiff had sought an early hearing of the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute case.&nbsp;

Senior lawyer SK Parasaran, arguing for one of the applicants, told the top court that mediation talks were not making much progress and were unable to bring any positive results. However, senior advocate Rajeev Dhawan, representing Muslim parties, said that this was not the time to criticise the mediation panel.&nbsp;

He said, “I don’t think it’s fair to criticise mediation panel’s proceedings. Parties cannot come to court asking to scrap the mediation talks on our account”.

However, the top court assured that if mediation talks failed to reach an amicable solution to resolve the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute, the court will then commence hearing the case on a day-to-day basis from July 25.&nbsp;

In order to resolve the title dispute case, the top Court had appointed a mediation panel headed by former Supreme Court judge FM Khalifullah along with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior advocate Sri Ram Panchu.&nbsp;

While forming the panel, the court had asked the mediation panel to maintain utmost confidentiality and disallowed media from reporting the panel proceedings.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday ordered the mediation panel to submit a detailed status report on the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute case by July 18.

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday ordered the mediation panel to submit a detailed status report on the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute case by July 18. The Supreme Court bench headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi took the plaintiff’s plea into consideration. The plaintiff had sought an early hearing of the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute case. Senior lawyer SK Parasaran, arguing for one of the applicants, told the top court that mediation talks were not making much progress and were unable to bring any positive results. However, senior advocate Rajeev Dhawan, representing Muslim parties, said that this was not the time to criticise the mediation panel. He said, “I don’t think it’s fair to criticise mediation panel’s proceedings. Parties cannot come to court asking to scrap the mediation talks on our account”. However, the top court assured that if mediation talks failed to reach an amicable solution to resolve the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid title dispute, the court will then commence hearing the case on a day-to-day basis from July 25. In order to resolve the title dispute case, the top Court had appointed a mediation panel headed by former Supreme Court judge FM Khalifullah along with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior advocate Sri Ram Panchu. While forming the panel, the court had asked the mediation panel to maintain utmost confidentiality and disallowed media from reporting the panel proceedings.

Ayodhya land dispute case: Supreme Court directs mediation panel to submit detailed status report by July 18

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday began hearing a plea for early hearing on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-progress-made-in-ayodhya-case-plaintiff-tells-supreme-court-234343">Ayodhya land dispute case</a>.

This comes after the apex court, earlier this week, on Tuesday allowed a plaintiff to file an application seeking an early hearing in the Ram Mandir-Babri mosque title dispute case.&nbsp;

Plaintiff Gopal Singh Visharad moved India's top court claiming that not much progress has been made in the court-ordered mediation process in the case.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi agreed to consider the matter and allowed the plaintiff to file an application.

The court had appointed a mediation panel previously to resolve the dispute. The mediation panel is led by former Supreme Court judge FM Khalifullah along with spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior advocate Sri Ram Panchu.

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday began hearing a plea for early hearing on Ayodhya land dispute case. This comes after the apex court, earlier this week, on Tuesday allowed a plaintiff to file an application seeking an early hearing in the Ram Mandir-Babri mosque title dispute case.

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday began hearing a plea for early hearing on Ayodhya land dispute case. This comes after the apex court, earlier this week, on Tuesday allowed a plaintiff to file an application seeking an early hearing in the Ram Mandir-Babri mosque title dispute case. Plaintiff Gopal Singh Visharad moved India's top court claiming that not much progress has been made in the court-ordered mediation process in the case. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi agreed to consider the matter and allowed the plaintiff to file an application. The court had appointed a mediation panel previously to resolve the dispute. The mediation panel is led by former Supreme Court judge FM Khalifullah along with spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior advocate Sri Ram Panchu.

Supreme Courts hears plea that calls for early hearing on Ayodhya land dispute case

Following the merger of 10 Congress MLAs into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that it is upon Central leadership to take any decision regarding making any changes in the Goa cabinet.

Speaking to ANI before leaving for Delhi along with 10 newly-inducted MLAs, Sawant replied to a question about the prospects of dropping any minister from its coalition partners to accommodate newly joined MLAs.

"No decision has been taken yet. The central leadership will take the decision regarding this", said Sawant.

He also said that the merger of MLAs has been unconditional.

"Ten MLAs along with their opposition leaders have merged into BJP. BJP's strength which was 17 has become 27 now. They have come for the development of the state and their constituency. They have not put any conditions. It is an unconditional merger", Goa CM said.

Ten Goa Congress MLAs, who merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have reached Delhi along with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to meet Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah.

In a major political development, a group of ten MLAs from Congress party in Goa had severed ties with their party on Wednesday evening to merge themselves with BJP.

The group of Congress leaders led by Kavlekar met Speaker Patnekar in the evening to give a letter informing him about their decision.

Other MLAs include - Atanasio Monserratte, Jeniffer Monserratte, Francis Silveira, Philip Nery Rodrigues, Cleaofacio Dias, Wilfred D'Sa, Nilkant Halarnkar and Isidor Fernandes.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant was also present when the entire group of legislators arrived at the assembly complex.

Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly Michael Lobo was also present with them. With ten MLAs changing the sides, the strength of Congress on the floor of the House was reduced to mere five.&nbsp;

Following the merger of 10 Congress MLAs into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that it is upon Central leadership to take any decision regarding making any changes in the Goa cabinet.

Following the merger of 10 Congress MLAs into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that it is upon Central leadership to take any decision regarding making any changes in the Goa cabinet. Speaking to ANI before leaving for Delhi along with 10 newly-inducted MLAs, Sawant replied to a question about the prospects of dropping any minister from its coalition partners to accommodate newly joined MLAs. "No decision has been taken yet. The central leadership will take the decision regarding this", said Sawant. He also said that the merger of MLAs has been unconditional. "Ten MLAs along with their opposition leaders have merged into BJP. BJP's strength which was 17 has become 27 now. They have come for the development of the state and their constituency. They have not put any conditions. It is an unconditional merger", Goa CM said. Ten Goa Congress MLAs, who merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have reached Delhi along with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to meet Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah. In a major political development, a group of ten MLAs from Congress party in Goa had severed ties with their party on Wednesday evening to merge themselves with BJP. The group of Congress leaders led by Kavlekar met Speaker Patnekar in the evening to give a letter informing him about their decision. Other MLAs include - Atanasio Monserratte, Jeniffer Monserratte, Francis Silveira, Philip Nery Rodrigues, Cleaofacio Dias, Wilfred D'Sa, Nilkant Halarnkar and Isidor Fernandes. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant was also present when the entire group of legislators arrived at the assembly complex. Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly Michael Lobo was also present with them. With ten MLAs changing the sides, the strength of Congress on the floor of the House was reduced to mere five.

No decision on cabinet reshuffle, Central leadership to take call: Pramod Sawant

London witnesses its first Microsoft physical retail store and that will be the first Microsoft physical store in all of Europe. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: Microsoft opens first physical store in Europe

The rift in the IndiGo's top management is out in the open. Rakesh Gangwal, a US national who along with his affiliates owns about 37% in the publicly-listed InterGlobe Aviation Limited, the parent company of IndiGo, has alleged irregularities in running of the company. Watch this video to know more.

Fight between IndiGo promoters becomes public

Ten Goa Congress MLAs, who merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday, have left for Delhi along with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to meet Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah.

"We are taking the 10 Goa Congress MLAs that joined BJP, to Delhi to meet party president Amit Shah. There will be a meeting tomorrow (on Thursday), everything else will be decided there," Sawant told ANI.

The Congress MLAs who severed ties with the grand old party are - Chandrakant Kavlekar, Isidore Fernandes, Francis Silveira, Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Jennifer, Atanasio Monserrate, Antonio Fernandes, Nilakanth Halarnkar, Clafacio Dias and Wilfred D'Sa.

"BJP has got a clear mandate today. The number of MLAs is up to 27 and with this, we can do people's work," said Goa Assembly Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo.

Filipe Neri Rodrigues said, "We have already joined the BJP. We are part of it now. It's a collective opinion of all the Congress legislators that BJP has got the mandate of people... What we could not deliver to the people of Goa being in Opposition, we will also try to take benefit of this government to the people."

Ten Goa Congress MLAs, who merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday, have left for Delhi along with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to meet Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah.

Ten Goa Congress MLAs, who merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday, have left for Delhi along with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to meet Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah. "We are taking the 10 Goa Congress MLAs that joined BJP, to Delhi to meet party president Amit Shah. There will be a meeting tomorrow (on Thursday), everything else will be decided there," Sawant told ANI. The Congress MLAs who severed ties with the grand old party are - Chandrakant Kavlekar, Isidore Fernandes, Francis Silveira, Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Jennifer, Atanasio Monserrate, Antonio Fernandes, Nilakanth Halarnkar, Clafacio Dias and Wilfred D'Sa. "BJP has got a clear mandate today. The number of MLAs is up to 27 and with this, we can do people's work," said Goa Assembly Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo. Filipe Neri Rodrigues said, "We have already joined the BJP. We are part of it now. It's a collective opinion of all the Congress legislators that BJP has got the mandate of people... What we could not deliver to the people of Goa being in Opposition, we will also try to take benefit of this government to the people."

10 ex-Goa Congress MLAs to meet Amit Shah today

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Bill that proposes to set up an Inter-State River Water Disputes Tribunal to resolve water disputes in a time-bound manner.

The Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019 seeks to streamline the adjudication of inter-state river water disputes and make the present institutional architecture robust.

Briefing reporters after the cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said there have been instances of cases pending before tribunals for 15-20 years.

He said the single tribunal can have different benches and the decision on a dispute will be made in two years.

The bill provides for dissolution of existing tribunals and the water disputes pending adjudication before such existing tribunals will be transferred to the new tribunal.&nbsp;

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Bill that proposes to set up an Inter-State River Water Disputes Tribunal to resolve water disputes in a time-bound manner.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Bill that proposes to set up an Inter-State River Water Disputes Tribunal to resolve water disputes in a time-bound manner. The Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019 seeks to streamline the adjudication of inter-state river water disputes and make the present institutional architecture robust. Briefing reporters after the cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said there have been instances of cases pending before tribunals for 15-20 years. He said the single tribunal can have different benches and the decision on a dispute will be made in two years. The bill provides for dissolution of existing tribunals and the water disputes pending adjudication before such existing tribunals will be transferred to the new tribunal.

Cabinet approves bill to set up a single water disputes tribunal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attempted-to-seize-british-tanker-fended-off-by-warship-hms-montrose-report-234800">Iran attempted to seize British tanker, fended off by warship HMS Montrose: Report</a> 
 
Iran's President Hassan Rouhani had warned Britain of "consequences" over the detention of one of the country's oil tankers off the coast of Gibraltar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-hasnt-acknowledged-presence-of-indian-prisoners-of-war-defence-personnel-in-its-custody-government-in-lok-sabha-234803">Pak hasn't acknowledged presence of Indian PoWs: Govt in Lok Sabha</a> 
 
In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-pm-wickremesinghe-negotiating-new-military-deal-with-us-as-president-sirisena-vows-to-veto-agreement-234805">Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe negotiating 'new military deal' with US as President Sirisena vows to veto agreement</a> 
 
Wickremesinghe denied that the new SOFA would lead to a permanent US presence on the island.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-hands-win-to-trump-in-hotel-emoluments-case-president-celebrates-234802">US court hands win to Trump in hotel 'emoluments' case; president celebrates</a> 
 
The three-judge panel said the attorneys general lacked legal standing to bring the case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/we-are-proud-of-you-chin-up-bollywood-celebrities-react-to-team-indias-loss-in-icc-cricket-wc-2019-234816">Bollywood celebrities react to team India's loss in ICC Cricket WC 2019</a> 
 
The match, which went on for two days due to rain on the first day, left a lot of Bollywood celebrities disappointed as well.&nbsp;

Iran attempted to seize British tanker, fended off by warship HMS Montrose: Report Iran's President Hassan Rouhani had warned Britain of "consequences" over the detention of one of the country's oil tankers off the coast of Gibraltar.

Iran attempted to seize British tanker, fended off by warship HMS Montrose: Report Iran's President Hassan Rouhani had warned Britain of "consequences" over the detention of one of the country's oil tankers off the coast of Gibraltar. Pak hasn't acknowledged presence of Indian PoWs: Govt in Lok Sabha In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody. Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe negotiating 'new military deal' with US as President Sirisena vows to veto agreement Wickremesinghe denied that the new SOFA would lead to a permanent US presence on the island. US court hands win to Trump in hotel 'emoluments' case; president celebrates The three-judge panel said the attorneys general lacked legal standing to bring the case. Bollywood celebrities react to team India's loss in ICC Cricket WC 2019 The match, which went on for two days due to rain on the first day, left a lot of Bollywood celebrities disappointed as well.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) DIG Tarun Gauba, who was investigating the case of the agency's former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-court-grants-4-more-months-time-to-cbi-to-complete-probe-in-asthana-bribery-case-223049">Special Director Rakesh Asthana</a>, was on Thursday prematurely repatriated to his state cadre in Uttar Pradesh.

The decision was conveyed through an order issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievance and Pensions.

"Approval of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is hereby conveyed for premature repatriation of Tarun Gauba, IPS (UP 2001), DIG, CBI to his State Cadre," the notice read.

Nitin Wakankar, Chief Information Officer of CBI said, "Tarun Gauba's tenure in CBI was up to October 2019, and he has been selected for the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship beginning in August in the US."

He added, "As Tarun Gauba could not have remained in CBI beyond his 7-year tenure ending in October, on his personal request, he has been repatriated to his parent cadre, from where he will proceed on the scholarship."&nbsp;

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) DIG Tarun Gauba, who was investigating the case of the agency's former Special Director Rakesh Asthana, was on Thursday prematurely repatriated to his state cadre in Uttar Pradesh.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) DIG Tarun Gauba, who was investigating the case of the agency's former Special Director Rakesh Asthana, was on Thursday prematurely repatriated to his state cadre in Uttar Pradesh. The decision was conveyed through an order issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievance and Pensions. "Approval of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is hereby conveyed for premature repatriation of Tarun Gauba, IPS (UP 2001), DIG, CBI to his State Cadre," the notice read. Nitin Wakankar, Chief Information Officer of CBI said, "Tarun Gauba's tenure in CBI was up to October 2019, and he has been selected for the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship beginning in August in the US." He added, "As Tarun Gauba could not have remained in CBI beyond his 7-year tenure ending in October, on his personal request, he has been repatriated to his parent cadre, from where he will proceed on the scholarship."

CBI officer probing Rakesh Asthana case prematurely repatriated to state cadre

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two separate FIRs related to an alleged case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/illegal-mining-central-bureau-of-investigation-raids-at-bulandshahr-district-magistrates-residence-234595">illegal sand mining in Uttar Pradesh</a>.

One FIR has been registered against Abhay, the former District Magistrate of Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh), and former mining minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati, among others.

Another FIR has been registered against Vivek, former District Magistrate, Deoria (Uttar Pradesh) and eight others including the former Additional District Magistrate, Deoria (UP) and three public servants.

The CBI had on Wednesday conducted raids at multiple locations across the state in connection with the cases, according to sources.

Raids were conducted at 12 locations, including Bulandshahr, Lucknow, Fatehpur, Azamgarh, Allahabad, Noida, Gorakhpur and Deoria.

The agency recovered cash worth Rs 47 lakh from the residence of Bulandshahr District Magistrate Abhay Kumar Singh, Rs 10 lakh from Chief Development Officer Devi Sharan Upadhyay's residence and some documents related to properties from the premises of Director of Training and Employment, Vivek.

Even though there was no official comment on the raid, CBI sources said a huge amount of cash was recovered by the agency from Abhay's residence.

The search went on for over two hours, sources said, adding that a machine to count notes was taken inside Abhay's house by the CBI officials.

In the illegal mining scam, CBI had filed an FIR earlier this year, in which names of several bureaucrats and politicians had come up.

According to sources, when the purported scam took place, Abhay was the District Magistrate at Fatehpur district and Upadhyay and Vivek were the Additional District Magistrate and District Magistrate of Deoria city in Uttar Pradesh, respectively.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two separate FIRs related to an alleged case of illegal sand mining in Uttar Pradesh. One FIR has been registered against Abhay, the former District Magistrate of Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh), and former mining minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati, among others.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two separate FIRs related to an alleged case of illegal sand mining in Uttar Pradesh. One FIR has been registered against Abhay, the former District Magistrate of Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh), and former mining minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati, among others. Another FIR has been registered against Vivek, former District Magistrate, Deoria (Uttar Pradesh) and eight others including the former Additional District Magistrate, Deoria (UP) and three public servants. The CBI had on Wednesday conducted raids at multiple locations across the state in connection with the cases, according to sources. Raids were conducted at 12 locations, including Bulandshahr, Lucknow, Fatehpur, Azamgarh, Allahabad, Noida, Gorakhpur and Deoria. The agency recovered cash worth Rs 47 lakh from the residence of Bulandshahr District Magistrate Abhay Kumar Singh, Rs 10 lakh from Chief Development Officer Devi Sharan Upadhyay's residence and some documents related to properties from the premises of Director of Training and Employment, Vivek. Even though there was no official comment on the raid, CBI sources said a huge amount of cash was recovered by the agency from Abhay's residence. The search went on for over two hours, sources said, adding that a machine to count notes was taken inside Abhay's house by the CBI officials. In the illegal mining scam, CBI had filed an FIR earlier this year, in which names of several bureaucrats and politicians had come up. According to sources, when the purported scam took place, Abhay was the District Magistrate at Fatehpur district and Upadhyay and Vivek were the Additional District Magistrate and District Magistrate of Deoria city in Uttar Pradesh, respectively.

Central Bureau of Investigation registers two separate FIRs in illegal sand mining case

Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Thursday said that he needs to examine the resignations of rebel MLAs to ascertain if they are genuine.

''I need to examine these resignations of rebel MLAs all night and ascertain if they are genuine,'' said the Speaker while addressing the media at Vidhana Soudha after meeting rebel MLAs.

The Speaker said that the rebel MLAs told him they went to Mumbai as some people threatened them.

''I would've given them protection,'' the speaker said and added, only three working days have elapsed but they behaved as earthquake occurred.

Speaker also said that he had videographed everything and send the taps to the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

On the delay in announcing his decision, he said ''My obligation is to people of this state and the Constitution of the country. I am delaying because I love this land. I am not acting in haste.''

The Speaker said that he scrutinised the resignations based on rule202 and found eight letters not in prescribed format. ''I'm obliged to look if resignations are voluntary and genuine,'' he added.

Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Thursday said that he needs to examine the resignations of rebel MLAs to ascertain if they are genuine. ''I need to examine these resignations of rebel MLAs all night and ascertain if they are genuine,'' said the Speaker while addressing the media at Vidhana Soudha after meeting rebel MLAs.

Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar on Thursday said that he needs to examine the resignations of rebel MLAs to ascertain if they are genuine. ''I need to examine these resignations of rebel MLAs all night and ascertain if they are genuine,'' said the Speaker while addressing the media at Vidhana Soudha after meeting rebel MLAs. The Speaker said that the rebel MLAs told him they went to Mumbai as some people threatened them. ''I would've given them protection,'' the speaker said and added, only three working days have elapsed but they behaved as earthquake occurred. Speaker also said that he had videographed everything and send the taps to the Supreme Court. On the delay in announcing his decision, he said ''My obligation is to people of this state and the Constitution of the country. I am delaying because I love this land. I am not acting in haste.'' The Speaker said that he scrutinised the resignations based on rule202 and found eight letters not in prescribed format. ''I'm obliged to look if resignations are voluntary and genuine,'' he added.

Needs to examine if resignations are genuine: Speaker on Karnataka crisis 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-allows-nawaz-sharifs-personal-physician-to-visit-him-in-jail-234746">Pakistan</a> has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody.

"Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said.

He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-receive-first-trench-of-international-monetary-fund-bailout-package-234462">Pakistan</a>'s custody since 2014.

Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-no-country-for-free-press-234481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated.

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MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 &amp; 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. <a href="https://t.co/qeCPidaeda">https://t.co/qeCPidaeda</a>
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In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation.

"It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said.

He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts'&nbsp;team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far.

Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level.

"As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said.

The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday. In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody. "Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said. He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from Pakistan's custody since 2014. Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press? "This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated. MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 & 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. https://t.co/qeCPidaeda — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2019 × In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation. "It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said. He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts' team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far. Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level. "As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said. The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan hasn't acknowledged presence of Indian war prisoners, defence personnel in its custody: Government in Lok Sabha

Two-day India-US talks are underway in Delhi with a team of United States Trade Representative (USTR) meeting with Indian officials.&nbsp;

The team from USTR include Assistance USTR Christopher Wilson, Deputy Assistance USTR Brendan Lynch are in India for the talks.

Both sides will hold comprehensive dialogue on July 12, 2019, in the Commerce and Industry ministry with additional secretary Sanjay Chaddha.

The visiting USTR &nbsp;delegation will also call on Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in his weekly presser said "You are aware that the team is already here. It is represented by Wilson. We have a matching delegation from our side. When we engage in these issues, we have to keep in mind the bigger picture."

The meet happens days after US President Donald Trump met PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 summit in Osaka, Japan with both sides agreeing to start trade talks.

Asked if New Delhi's position on Huawei being allowed to participate in 5G operations in India will be raised, Raveesh said, "Entire things will be on the trade...Whatever we decide, will take into account our economic interests."

Friday will be the last day talks which can help Delhi Washington resolve trade issues.

Earlier this week US President Donald Trump has again lashed out at India on trade issues in a tweet saying "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!"

In the past, he has called India a Tariff King and called New Delhi to reduce tariffs on several US products including Harley Davidson motorbikes.

Two-day India-US talks are underway in Delhi with a team of United States Trade Representative (USTR) meeting with Indian officials. The team from USTR include Assistance USTR Christopher Wilson, Deputy Assistance USTR Brendan Lynch are in India for the talks.

Two-day India-US talks are underway in Delhi with a team of United States Trade Representative (USTR) meeting with Indian officials. The team from USTR include Assistance USTR Christopher Wilson, Deputy Assistance USTR Brendan Lynch are in India for the talks. Both sides will hold comprehensive dialogue on July 12, 2019, in the Commerce and Industry ministry with additional secretary Sanjay Chaddha. The visiting USTR delegation will also call on Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in his weekly presser said "You are aware that the team is already here. It is represented by Wilson. We have a matching delegation from our side. When we engage in these issues, we have to keep in mind the bigger picture." The meet happens days after US President Donald Trump met PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 summit in Osaka, Japan with both sides agreeing to start trade talks. Asked if New Delhi's position on Huawei being allowed to participate in 5G operations in India will be raised, Raveesh said, "Entire things will be on the trade...Whatever we decide, will take into account our economic interests." Friday will be the last day talks which can help Delhi Washington resolve trade issues. Earlier this week US President Donald Trump has again lashed out at India on trade issues in a tweet saying "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" In the past, he has called India a Tariff King and called New Delhi to reduce tariffs on several US products including Harley Davidson motorbikes.

India, US begin trade talks; New Delhi says keep bigger picture in mind

Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-rebel-legislators-knock-supreme-courts-door-234523">political upheaval in Karnataka</a>, a meeting of the state Cabinet will be held on Thursday at Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, the Cabinet meeting will have all the ministers as they have only submitted their resignations to their party presidents, not to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.

The meeting comes a day after Karnataka Water Minister DK Shivakumar, who went to Mumbai to meet the rebel MLAs staying at a hotel there, was detained by Mumbai Police and not allowed to meet the rebel MLAs.

Shivakumar, who returned to Bengaluru late on Wednesday, said it was a "matter of shame" that he was "forcefully deported" back to Bengaluru.

"Mumbai is known for its hospitality. I had booked a room there and was on an official visit to meet my friends and colleagues, but BJP and officials misused their authority. It's a matter of shame," Shivakumar told ANI.

Soon after Shivakumar, rebel Karnataka Congress MLA ST Somashekar also returned to Bengaluru from Mumbai. Somashekhar, who is the Chairman of Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), is expected to attend a meeting of the BDA scheduled to take place later today.

"I have come back. I will be here in Bengaluru; I am not going back to Mumbai. I have resigned, (but) I am in Congress party," Somashekar told ANI after returning to Bengaluru.

Somashekar, along with nine other MLAs of Congress and JDS, was staying at the Renaissance - Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel.

Shivakumar had reached the hotel in Mumbai on Wednesday morning to pacify the rebel MLAs.

He was, however, forced to sit outside the hotel after being denied entry.

Later, Mumbai Police detained Shivakumar, Milind Deora and other Congressmen and kept them at Kalinga University rest house.

The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week. Congress'&nbsp;Roshan Baig and independent H Nagesh have also deserted the HD Kumaraswamy government.

The Congress has been accusing the BJP of conspiring to topple the coalition government in Karnataka.

The ruling alliance is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.&nbsp;

Amid the political upheaval in Karnataka, a meeting of the state Cabinet will be held on Thursday at Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru. According to the Chief Minister's Office, the Cabinet meeting will have all the ministers as they have only submitted their resignations to their party presidents, not to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.

Amid the political upheaval in Karnataka, a meeting of the state Cabinet will be held on Thursday at Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru. According to the Chief Minister's Office, the Cabinet meeting will have all the ministers as they have only submitted their resignations to their party presidents, not to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy. The meeting comes a day after Karnataka Water Minister DK Shivakumar, who went to Mumbai to meet the rebel MLAs staying at a hotel there, was detained by Mumbai Police and not allowed to meet the rebel MLAs. Shivakumar, who returned to Bengaluru late on Wednesday, said it was a "matter of shame" that he was "forcefully deported" back to Bengaluru. "Mumbai is known for its hospitality. I had booked a room there and was on an official visit to meet my friends and colleagues, but BJP and officials misused their authority. It's a matter of shame," Shivakumar told ANI. Soon after Shivakumar, rebel Karnataka Congress MLA ST Somashekar also returned to Bengaluru from Mumbai. Somashekhar, who is the Chairman of Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), is expected to attend a meeting of the BDA scheduled to take place later today. "I have come back. I will be here in Bengaluru; I am not going back to Mumbai. I have resigned, (but) I am in Congress party," Somashekar told ANI after returning to Bengaluru. Somashekar, along with nine other MLAs of Congress and JDS, was staying at the Renaissance - Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel. Shivakumar had reached the hotel in Mumbai on Wednesday morning to pacify the rebel MLAs. He was, however, forced to sit outside the hotel after being denied entry. Later, Mumbai Police detained Shivakumar, Milind Deora and other Congressmen and kept them at Kalinga University rest house. The 13-month old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly last week. Congress' Roshan Baig and independent H Nagesh have also deserted the HD Kumaraswamy government. The Congress has been accusing the BJP of conspiring to topple the coalition government in Karnataka. The ruling alliance is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

Amidst crisis, Kumaraswamy to chair cabinet meeting today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-rice-exports-hit-by-strong-baht-unlikely-to-meet-2019-goal-234687">Rice export prices</a> in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries.

Thailand's benchmark 5 percent broken rice prices were quoted at $390-$404 a tonne on Thursday, free on board Bangkok (FOB), down from $395-$413 last week.

"The new crop is expected to start entering the market next month and this has driven the price down a little but the strong baht also means that the export price remains strong overall," a Bangkok-based rice trader said.

Demand for Thai rice has remained flat as the local currency strengthened, traders added.

Thailand's rice exports fell by 12 per cent in the first half of 2019, hurt by the stronger baht, and will likely fall short of this year's target of 9.5 million tonnes, an exporter group said on Wednesday.

Thailand shipped 4.2 million tonnes of rice between January and June with orders in the last two months falling to as low as 600,000 tonnes per month, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association.

For top rice exporter India, prices of the 5 percent broken parboiled variety were quoted around $374-$377 per tonne this week, up from last week's $371-$374.

The Indian rupee on Thursday rose to its highest level in 11-months, trimming exporters returns from overseas sales.

"For white rice demand is negligible. There's modest demand for parboiled from African buyers," said B V Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association (REA).

The Indian government has also raised the price at which it will buy new-season common rice varieties from local farmers by 3.7 percent.

Meanwhile, neighbouring Bangladesh will procure 400,000 tonnes of paddy at 26,000 taka or $307.73 a tonne during the current harvesting season to support local farmers reeling under declining domestic prices, food minister Sadhan Chandra Majumdar said.

Market insiders, however, said the move would not benefit most growers in dire need of cash, since they were compelled to sell their crop at much cheaper rates to millers or middlemen.

Bangladesh has also been unable to clinch deals since its ban on rice exports was lifted in May.

In Vietnam, rates for 5% broken rice rose to $335-$340 a tonne from $330-$335 last week, as traders looked to increase profits, merchants said.

"Demand for 5% broken rice has been lacklustre this week," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. "We have received orders for fragrant rice only."

Preliminary data showed nearly 60,000 tonnes of rice is to be loaded at Ho Chi Minh City ports during the July 1-16 period, compared with 311,700 tonnes in June, another trader said.

Most of the new shipments were headed to Iraq, Malaysia and West Africa, the trader added.

Rice export prices in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries.

Rice export prices in India extended gains this week helped by a stronger rupee, while expectations of fresh supplies entering the market weighed on Thai rates along with muted demand across major paddy-growing countries. Thailand's benchmark 5 percent broken rice prices were quoted at $390-$404 a tonne on Thursday, free on board Bangkok (FOB), down from $395-$413 last week. "The new crop is expected to start entering the market next month and this has driven the price down a little but the strong baht also means that the export price remains strong overall," a Bangkok-based rice trader said. Demand for Thai rice has remained flat as the local currency strengthened, traders added. Thailand's rice exports fell by 12 per cent in the first half of 2019, hurt by the stronger baht, and will likely fall short of this year's target of 9.5 million tonnes, an exporter group said on Wednesday. Thailand shipped 4.2 million tonnes of rice between January and June with orders in the last two months falling to as low as 600,000 tonnes per month, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association. For top rice exporter India, prices of the 5 percent broken parboiled variety were quoted around $374-$377 per tonne this week, up from last week's $371-$374. The Indian rupee on Thursday rose to its highest level in 11-months, trimming exporters returns from overseas sales. "For white rice demand is negligible. There's modest demand for parboiled from African buyers," said B V Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association (REA). The Indian government has also raised the price at which it will buy new-season common rice varieties from local farmers by 3.7 percent. Meanwhile, neighbouring Bangladesh will procure 400,000 tonnes of paddy at 26,000 taka or $307.73 a tonne during the current harvesting season to support local farmers reeling under declining domestic prices, food minister Sadhan Chandra Majumdar said. Market insiders, however, said the move would not benefit most growers in dire need of cash, since they were compelled to sell their crop at much cheaper rates to millers or middlemen. Bangladesh has also been unable to clinch deals since its ban on rice exports was lifted in May. In Vietnam, rates for 5% broken rice rose to $335-$340 a tonne from $330-$335 last week, as traders looked to increase profits, merchants said. "Demand for 5% broken rice has been lacklustre this week," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. "We have received orders for fragrant rice only." Preliminary data showed nearly 60,000 tonnes of rice is to be loaded at Ho Chi Minh City ports during the July 1-16 period, compared with 311,700 tonnes in June, another trader said. Most of the new shipments were headed to Iraq, Malaysia and West Africa, the trader added.

Strong currency props up Indian rice rates, wider demand subdued

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-china-watch-keenly-as-sri-lanka-negotiates-new-military-deal-with-us-234975">India, China watch keenly as Sri Lanka negotiates new military deal with US</a>

As India scrambles to counter China's expanding footprint in Sri Lanka, negotiation over a military pact with the US threatens to split the strategically located Indian Ocean island's polity again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-and-us-will-regret-detaining-our-oil-tanker-irans-elite-revolutionary-guards-deputy-commander-234959">Britain and US will regret detaining our oil tanker: Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards deputy commander</a>

Britain and the United States will regret detaining an Iranian oil tanker, a deputy commander of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards said on Thursday, according to the Tasnim news agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/french-parliament-passes-law-taxing-us-digital-giants-234955">French law taxing US digital giants draws angry response from US President Trump</a>

The French parliament on Thursday passed a law taxing internet giants including Apple and Google in defiance of a probe ordered by President Donald Trump that could trigger reprisal tariffs.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-kicked-me-out-of-rcb-relationship-is-spoiled-jokes-widies-cricketer-chris-gayle-234909">'Kohli kicked me out of RCB, relationship is spoiled,' jokes Windies cricketer Chris Gayle</a>

West Indies legendary cricketer Chris Gayle, known for his power-hitting and dynamic attitude, spoke exclusively to Zee Business about his relationship with Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Indian fans.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-wanted-to-be-a-model-at-my-show-us-tv-host-wendy-williams-234938">Meghan Markle wanted to be a model at my show: US TV host Wendy Williams</a>

Not many in the people in the world can claim that they know more things about Duchess of Sussex aka Meghan Markle than what is already out in the public.&nbsp;

India, China watch keenly as Sri Lanka negotiates new military deal with US As India scrambles to counter China's expanding footprint in Sri Lanka, negotiation over a military pact with the US threatens to split the strategically located Indian Ocean island's polity again.

India, China watch keenly as Sri Lanka negotiates new military deal with US As India scrambles to counter China's expanding footprint in Sri Lanka, negotiation over a military pact with the US threatens to split the strategically located Indian Ocean island's polity again. Britain and US will regret detaining our oil tanker: Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards deputy commander Britain and the United States will regret detaining an Iranian oil tanker, a deputy commander of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards said on Thursday, according to the Tasnim news agency. French law taxing US digital giants draws angry response from US President Trump The French parliament on Thursday passed a law taxing internet giants including Apple and Google in defiance of a probe ordered by President Donald Trump that could trigger reprisal tariffs. 'Kohli kicked me out of RCB, relationship is spoiled,' jokes Windies cricketer Chris Gayle West Indies legendary cricketer Chris Gayle, known for his power-hitting and dynamic attitude, spoke exclusively to Zee Business about his relationship with Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Indian fans. Meghan Markle wanted to be a model at my show: US TV host Wendy Williams Not many in the people in the world can claim that they know more things about Duchess of Sussex aka Meghan Markle than what is already out in the public.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019.&nbsp;

Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/international-court-of-justice-to-announce-verdict-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-on-july-17-233065">on July 17 by The International court of justice</a> (ICJ).

Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India."

The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments.

Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website."

Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared."

Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges.

India has been demanding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-writes-to-pakistan-for-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-207577">consular access to Jadhav</a> since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities.&nbsp;

Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging.

On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST on July 17 by The International court of justice (ICJ). Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India." The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments. Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website." Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared." Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges. India has been demanding consular access to Jadhav since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities. Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging. On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India, Pakistan await verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case, MEA says 'not proper to speculate'

The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation.

Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises.&nbsp;

Madhuri Thorat, Medical Superintendent, Regional Mental Hospital said, "Farming has a soothing effect on the minds of the mentally ill patients and so we are encouraging them to do farming. And this is also helping them earn a livelihood from this and proving the society wrong that they cannot do anything. Also, the patients enjoy doing these activities and this reduces the symptoms of depression in the patients.

"She further added that the hospital is also in the process of giving them reasonable pay from the revenue generated by the banana cultivation.

Pravin Kakde, Farming Project Head said, "The patients who come here are usually from the rural background and we give them the skill according to their interest. We also help these patients to develop their interest in farming activities or other activities."

"This has turned out to be very fruitful as sometimes the patients themselves have taught us about the best techniques and seasons to cultivate banana," he further added.

The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation. Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises.

The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation. Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises. Madhuri Thorat, Medical Superintendent, Regional Mental Hospital said, "Farming has a soothing effect on the minds of the mentally ill patients and so we are encouraging them to do farming. And this is also helping them earn a livelihood from this and proving the society wrong that they cannot do anything. Also, the patients enjoy doing these activities and this reduces the symptoms of depression in the patients. "She further added that the hospital is also in the process of giving them reasonable pay from the revenue generated by the banana cultivation. Pravin Kakde, Farming Project Head said, "The patients who come here are usually from the rural background and we give them the skill according to their interest. We also help these patients to develop their interest in farming activities or other activities." "This has turned out to be very fruitful as sometimes the patients themselves have taught us about the best techniques and seasons to cultivate banana," he further added.

Mentally-ill patients earn Rs 1 lakh through banana cultivation in Nagpur

India's external affairs minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has called for fast-tracking the Maldives' re-admission into the Commonwealth at the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in London.

The former Maldivian government under Abdulla Yameen had withdrawn from the Commonwealth in 2016.

Current President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's govt in Male had applied for membership again and took approval from the cabinet a month after taking charge. He was sworn in November 2018.

Applying for membership of Commonwealth was one of the main priorities of the Solih govt in its 100-day agenda.

External Affairs Minister during the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (CFAMM) also "noted that India is well on the path of fulfilling all the commitments made by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, at CHOGM 2018 much before the next CHOGM in 2020", a ministry of external affairs release said.

EAM also had bilateral meeting UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt during which the former thanked his counterpart for "British Government’s support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to build a global Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)."

He also met with Australian, Canadian &amp; Bangladeshi Foreign Ministers.

India's external affairs minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has called for fast-tracking the Maldives' re-admission into the Commonwealth at the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in London.

India's external affairs minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has called for fast-tracking the Maldives' re-admission into the Commonwealth at the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in London. The former Maldivian government under Abdulla Yameen had withdrawn from the Commonwealth in 2016. Current President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's govt in Male had applied for membership again and took approval from the cabinet a month after taking charge. He was sworn in November 2018. Applying for membership of Commonwealth was one of the main priorities of the Solih govt in its 100-day agenda. External Affairs Minister during the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (CFAMM) also "noted that India is well on the path of fulfilling all the commitments made by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, at CHOGM 2018 much before the next CHOGM in 2020", a ministry of external affairs release said. EAM also had bilateral meeting UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt during which the former thanked his counterpart for "British Government’s support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to build a global Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)." He also met with Australian, Canadian & Bangladeshi Foreign Ministers.

India urges Commonwealth to fast-track Maldives' re-admission

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. 
 
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. 
 
He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. 
 
He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.&nbsp;

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections.

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate. Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.

Special court summons Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek in fake degree case

The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a plea of beleaguered liquor baron <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-royal-courts-of-justice-in-london-approves-vijay-mallyas-plea-to-appeal-against-extradition-case-232488&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjPwanR0KzjAhUf6XMBHUs6D24QFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29DzLvQBvPK-IBuw-Qhdqq">Vijay Mallya</a> seeking a stay on the procedure for the confiscation of his properties by the government agencies in connection with a Rs 9,000-crore money laundering and fraud case.

A division bench of Justices Akil Kureshi and SJ Kathawala refused to grant any relief to 63-year-old Mallya.

In his petition, he has also sought protection till the high court heard his plea challenging the Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO) tag on him and the constitutional validity of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA).

Mallya was declared an FEO by a special PMLA court in Mumbai in January this year.

He had fled India in March 2016 and has been living in the United Kingdom since then.

The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a plea of beleaguered liquor baron Vijay Mallya seeking a stay on the procedure for the confiscation of his properties by the government agencies in connection with a Rs 9,000-crore money laundering and fraud case.

The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a plea of beleaguered liquor baron Vijay Mallya seeking a stay on the procedure for the confiscation of his properties by the government agencies in connection with a Rs 9,000-crore money laundering and fraud case. A division bench of Justices Akil Kureshi and SJ Kathawala refused to grant any relief to 63-year-old Mallya. In his petition, he has also sought protection till the high court heard his plea challenging the Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO) tag on him and the constitutional validity of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA). Mallya was declared an FEO by a special PMLA court in Mumbai in January this year. He had fled India in March 2016 and has been living in the United Kingdom since then.

Bombay High Court dismisses Vijay Mallya's plea on confiscation of properties

India and US trade negotiators will meet on Friday, with few signs of a compromise on a series of protectionist measures taken by the two governments in recent months that have strained ties between the strategic partners.

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-high-tariffs-on-american-products-no-longer-acceptable-says-us-president-donald-trump-234420">Donald Trump</a> has been putting pressure on India to do more to open its markets, saying this week again on Twitter its high tariffs were "unacceptable".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, re-elected in May, has been pushing nationalist policies with higher tariffs on everything from electronic goods to tighter controls on foreign firms in the fast-growing e-commerce market to help foster domestic companies and create jobs for millions of youth.

A delegation led by Assistant US Trade Representative (AUSTR) for South and Central Asia, Christopher Wilson, will meet Indian officials to try and re-start negotiations on tit-for-tat tariffs that were put on hold because of India's election.

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump targets India, hurts own farmers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-targets-india-hurts-own-farmers-234499/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Since India's election period has now passed, USTR officials are visiting India for relationship-building with Indian government counterparts," a USTR spokesperson said.

The USTR delegation is likely to meet Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal along with key trade officials on Friday. The delegation is also likely to meet top officials at the IT ministry.

Trump and Modi met in Osaka on the sidelines of a G20 summit in June where they agreed to build ties between the two countries and sort out thorny trade issues.

At Friday's meeting, New Delhi expects US officials to push against India's efforts to mandate foreign firms to store more of their data locally, an Indian government official said.

Washington is also expected to seek revisions to foreign investment rules for the e-commerce sector that have forced companies such as Walmart Inc's Flipkart and Amazon.com Inc to rework their business strategies in the country.

"The meeting with USTR was meant to set the tone for further talks after a positive G20 discussion. But Trump's tweet has shown their intention is to continue with a tough stance," another official said.

India's trade ministry did not respond to a Reuters email seeking comments on the visit.

One concern among Indian policymakers is that the Trump administration may push for a free trade agreement with India that could dent India's competitiveness, lead to a flurry of imports and hurt Modi's "Make in India" plan.

In a recent meeting, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told trade ministry officials that "Trump is clearly preparing for a larger game, a larger opening," according to one of the officials aware of the discussions.

Mark Linscott, a former USTR official wrote in India's The Hindu newspaper on Tuesday that trade should be a bigger part of the India and US strategic partnership and that a free trade pact "is the ultimate example of economic integration."

Trade between and India and the US was worth $142.1 billion in 2018, with India having a surplus of $24.2 billion.

"The direction that we would like is to pursue a deal which is mutually beneficial and not concede without reciprocity."

India and US trade negotiators will meet on Friday, with few signs of a compromise on a series of protectionist measures taken by the two governments in recent months that have strained ties between the strategic partners.

India and US trade negotiators will meet on Friday, with few signs of a compromise on a series of protectionist measures taken by the two governments in recent months that have strained ties between the strategic partners. US President Donald Trump has been putting pressure on India to do more to open its markets, saying this week again on Twitter its high tariffs were "unacceptable". Prime Minister Narendra Modi, re-elected in May, has been pushing nationalist policies with higher tariffs on everything from electronic goods to tighter controls on foreign firms in the fast-growing e-commerce market to help foster domestic companies and create jobs for millions of youth. A delegation led by Assistant US Trade Representative (AUSTR) for South and Central Asia, Christopher Wilson, will meet Indian officials to try and re-start negotiations on tit-for-tat tariffs that were put on hold because of India's election. Watch: Donald Trump targets India, hurts own farmers "Since India's election period has now passed, USTR officials are visiting India for relationship-building with Indian government counterparts," a USTR spokesperson said. The USTR delegation is likely to meet Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal along with key trade officials on Friday. The delegation is also likely to meet top officials at the IT ministry. Trump and Modi met in Osaka on the sidelines of a G20 summit in June where they agreed to build ties between the two countries and sort out thorny trade issues. At Friday's meeting, New Delhi expects US officials to push against India's efforts to mandate foreign firms to store more of their data locally, an Indian government official said. Washington is also expected to seek revisions to foreign investment rules for the e-commerce sector that have forced companies such as Walmart Inc's Flipkart and Amazon.com Inc to rework their business strategies in the country. "The meeting with USTR was meant to set the tone for further talks after a positive G20 discussion. But Trump's tweet has shown their intention is to continue with a tough stance," another official said. India's trade ministry did not respond to a Reuters email seeking comments on the visit. One concern among Indian policymakers is that the Trump administration may push for a free trade agreement with India that could dent India's competitiveness, lead to a flurry of imports and hurt Modi's "Make in India" plan. In a recent meeting, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told trade ministry officials that "Trump is clearly preparing for a larger game, a larger opening," according to one of the officials aware of the discussions. Mark Linscott, a former USTR official wrote in India's The Hindu newspaper on Tuesday that trade should be a bigger part of the India and US strategic partnership and that a free trade pact "is the ultimate example of economic integration." Trade between and India and the US was worth $142.1 billion in 2018, with India having a surplus of $24.2 billion. "The direction that we would like is to pursue a deal which is mutually beneficial and not concede without reciprocity."

After Trump's tariff rant, India-US trade talks to restart Friday amid few signs of compromise

Indrani Mukerjea, who recently turned an approver in the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-cbi-court-allows-indrani-mukerjea-to-turn-approver-232968&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb-t33x6zjAhUd7XMBHfDvCfQQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1yMrk8qHeucpMPd7YbJHli">INX Media case</a>, on Thursday appeared before a special CBI court here and accepted its pardon in the case in which former finance minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti are facing the probe.

Indrani, the former head of INX Media, appeared before Special CBI Judge Arun Bhardwaj and gave an assurance that she will record her statements "truthfully with all the facts".&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the court had allowed her application seeking to turn approver in the case. The court had also allowed her plea seeking pardon.&nbsp;

Today, with her acceptance of pardon in the court, she has become an approver and is no more an accused."I am aware that the court has allowed the application and granted me pardon, subject to the conditions as mentioned in that order. In the case of giving false evidence and not complying with the condition, I would be tried for the offence," she told the court. Indrani said that she will abide by the terms and conditions without "fear or pressure".

Last year, Indrani, after giving a confessional statement in the court, had filed a plea seeking to become an approver. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had earlier submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani is privy to and will help consolidate the case.

On May 15, 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR in the case alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during P Chidambaram`s tenure as the finance minister.

Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had registered a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him.&nbsp;

On February 3, the Union Law Ministry granted sanction to the CBI to prosecute P Chidambaram in connection with the matter.

The ED has also attached properties worth Rs 54 crore belonging to his son Karti, and a firm in the case and is probing how the FIPB clearance was granted to the group in 2007.

The agency has claimed that its probe shows that for the FIPB approval, INX Media directors Peter Mukerjea and Indrani Mukerjea had met P Chidambaram so that there was no delay in their application. It has also attached properties belonging to the Mukerjeas.

She is currently lodged in Byculla jail in Mumbai in connection with the case of murder of her daughter Sheena Bora.

Indrani Mukerjea, who recently turned an approver in the INX Media case, on Thursday appeared before a special CBI court here and accepted its pardon in the case in which former finance minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti are facing the probe.

Indrani Mukerjea, who recently turned an approver in the INX Media case, on Thursday appeared before a special CBI court here and accepted its pardon in the case in which former finance minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti are facing the probe. Indrani, the former head of INX Media, appeared before Special CBI Judge Arun Bhardwaj and gave an assurance that she will record her statements "truthfully with all the facts". Earlier this month, the court had allowed her application seeking to turn approver in the case. The court had also allowed her plea seeking pardon. Today, with her acceptance of pardon in the court, she has become an approver and is no more an accused."I am aware that the court has allowed the application and granted me pardon, subject to the conditions as mentioned in that order. In the case of giving false evidence and not complying with the condition, I would be tried for the offence," she told the court. Indrani said that she will abide by the terms and conditions without "fear or pressure". Last year, Indrani, after giving a confessional statement in the court, had filed a plea seeking to become an approver. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had earlier submitted that it has come across evidence in the form of conversations which only Indrani is privy to and will help consolidate the case. On May 15, 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR in the case alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during P Chidambaram`s tenure as the finance minister. Based on the FIR, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had registered a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) case against him. On February 3, the Union Law Ministry granted sanction to the CBI to prosecute P Chidambaram in connection with the matter. The ED has also attached properties worth Rs 54 crore belonging to his son Karti, and a firm in the case and is probing how the FIPB clearance was granted to the group in 2007. The agency has claimed that its probe shows that for the FIPB approval, INX Media directors Peter Mukerjea and Indrani Mukerjea had met P Chidambaram so that there was no delay in their application. It has also attached properties belonging to the Mukerjeas. She is currently lodged in Byculla jail in Mumbai in connection with the case of murder of her daughter Sheena Bora.

INX Media case: Indrani Mukerjea appears before court, accepts pardon

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INX Media case: Indrani Mukerjea appears before court, accepts pardon