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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-three-killed-heavy-rainfall-predicted-in-odisha-ap-bengal-northeast-215661">Three dead as Cyclone Fani heads to West Bengal; heavy rainfall predicted in Odisha, AP, Bengal, Northeast</a>

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-evidence-paved-way-for-listing-of-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-diplomatic-source-to-wion-215671">New evidence paved way for listing of Masood Azhar as global terrorist: Diplomatic source to WION</a>

New Evidence was provided to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)1267 committee after China had put a hold on March 13 on the listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-attack-mastermind-used-chatrooms-to-sway-suicide-bombers-215665">Sri Lanka attack mastermind used chatrooms to sway suicide bombers</a>

While Sri Lanka Easter suicide attacks mastermind&nbsp;Zahran Hashim&nbsp;used social media to publicly call for the death of non-Muslims, he worked for months in private chatrooms to persuade six young&nbsp;men to sacrifice themselves, Muslim community leaders say.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-experts-cite-concern-at-disproportionate-assange-detention-215668">UN rights experts cite concern at 'disproportionate' Assange detention</a>

United Nations human rights experts voiced concern on Friday at what they called the "disproportionate sentence" of 50 weeks in prison imposed on WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for skipping bail in Britain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fani-heading-towards-west-bengal-rain-lashes-city-215652">'Fani' heading towards West Bengal, rain lashes city</a>

Cyclone Fani which made a landfall in Odisha earlier during the day is likely to hit West Bengal by today evening. Fani hit Odisha's Puri district in eastern India at around 8 am on Friday. 
&nbsp;

Three dead as Cyclone Fani heads to West Bengal; heavy rainfall predicted in Odisha, AP, Bengal, Northeast Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.

Three dead as Cyclone Fani heads to West Bengal; heavy rainfall predicted in Odisha, AP, Bengal, Northeast Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast. New evidence paved way for listing of Masood Azhar as global terrorist: Diplomatic source to WION New Evidence was provided to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)1267 committee after China had put a hold on March 13 on the listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Sri Lanka attack mastermind used chatrooms to sway suicide bombers While Sri Lanka Easter suicide attacks mastermind Zahran Hashim used social media to publicly call for the death of non-Muslims, he worked for months in private chatrooms to persuade six young men to sacrifice themselves, Muslim community leaders say. UN rights experts cite concern at 'disproportionate' Assange detention United Nations human rights experts voiced concern on Friday at what they called the "disproportionate sentence" of 50 weeks in prison imposed on WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for skipping bail in Britain. 'Fani' heading towards West Bengal, rain lashes city Cyclone Fani which made a landfall in Odisha earlier during the day is likely to hit West Bengal by today evening. Fani hit Odisha's Puri district in eastern India at around 8 am on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Aviation regulator DGCA will issue revised advisories to airlines "as and when necessary" in view of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-three-killed-heavy-rainfall-predicted-in-odisha-ap-bengal-northeast-215661">cyclone 'Fani</a>', said Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Friday. &nbsp;

Prabhu in a tweet said that he has directed Pradeep Singh Kharola, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, to "continuously monitor the situation".&nbsp;

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Directed Secreatry <a href="https://twitter.com/moca?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA</a> to continuously monitor the situation. DGCA will be issuing revised advisories to Airlines as and when necessary. Taking all possible steps for passenger safety and to minimise their inconvenience. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneFaniUpdates?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneFaniUpdates</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneFani</a>
— Chowkidar Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) <a href="https://twitter.com/sureshpprabhu/status/1124257619860844544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Cyclone 'Fani' rolled through Odisha on Friday, packing rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, leaving at least three people dead, blowing away thatched houses, and swamping towns and villages.

In a series of tweets about the cyclone, Prabhu said he will pledge funds from Members of Parliament <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/puri-hit-with-wind-speed-of-240-245-kmph-cyclone-fani-moving-towards-west-bengal-coast-imd-215613">Local Area Development Scheme</a> (MPLADS) if necessary "as per the extant rule".&nbsp;

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I extend my full support for relief operations and reconstruction to all affected areas. Will pledge funds from MPLADS if necessary as per the extant rule. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneFani</a>
— Chowkidar Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) <a href="https://twitter.com/sureshpprabhu/status/1124257207531401216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Directed Secretary (MOCA) to continuously monitor the situation. DGCA will be issuing revised advisories to Airlines as and when necessary. Taking all possible steps for passenger safety and to minimise their inconvenience," he added.&nbsp;

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Friday said no flights will depart or arrive at Kolkata airport from 3 pm Friday to 8 am Saturday in view of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the regulator had issued an "operational advisory" stating that there would be no flights to and from Kolkata airport between 9.30 pm Friday and 6 pm Saturday.

Aviation regulator DGCA will issue revised advisories to airlines "as and when necessary" in view of the cyclone 'Fani', said Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Friday.

Aviation regulator DGCA will issue revised advisories to airlines "as and when necessary" in view of the cyclone 'Fani', said Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Friday. Prabhu in a tweet said that he has directed Pradeep Singh Kharola, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, to "continuously monitor the situation". Directed Secreatry @MoCA to continuously monitor the situation. DGCA will be issuing revised advisories to Airlines as and when necessary. Taking all possible steps for passenger safety and to minimise their inconvenience. #CycloneFaniUpdates #CycloneFani — Chowkidar Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) May 3, 2019 × Cyclone 'Fani' rolled through Odisha on Friday, packing rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, leaving at least three people dead, blowing away thatched houses, and swamping towns and villages. In a series of tweets about the cyclone, Prabhu said he will pledge funds from Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) if necessary "as per the extant rule". I extend my full support for relief operations and reconstruction to all affected areas. Will pledge funds from MPLADS if necessary as per the extant rule. #CycloneFani — Chowkidar Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) May 3, 2019 × "Directed Secretary (MOCA) to continuously monitor the situation. DGCA will be issuing revised advisories to Airlines as and when necessary. Taking all possible steps for passenger safety and to minimise their inconvenience," he added. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Friday said no flights will depart or arrive at Kolkata airport from 3 pm Friday to 8 am Saturday in view of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'. On Thursday, the regulator had issued an "operational advisory" stating that there would be no flights to and from Kolkata airport between 9.30 pm Friday and 6 pm Saturday.

Cyclone Fani: 'DGCA to issue revised guidelines to airlines as and when necessary'

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.&nbsp;

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

"The eye of the storm is likely to be weakened when it enters West Bengal. The wind speed will be around 100 kmph to 110 kmph," an official of the meteorological department said.

According to the National<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fani-heading-towards-west-bengal-rain-lashes-city-215652"> Emergency Response Centre</a>, under the home ministry, power and telecommunication lines in Puri district of Odisha are completely down and restoration work is on.

Rescuers belonging to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Navy, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force have been deployed in a mass operations, closely monitored by the central government.

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Moderate rainfall is expected at most places, heavy to very <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-telecommunication-networks-partially-disrupted-in-puri-bhubaneswar-215591">heavy rainfall </a>at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of interior parts of the state on Friday.&nbsp;

Most places in Odisha is likely to receive light to moderate rains on Saturday with heavy to very heavy rainfall occurring at isolated places in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts.

In Andhra Pradesh, light to moderate rainfall is likely at most places with heavy to very heavy rains at isolated places over Srikakulam district on Friday. Also light to moderate rainfall is likely in West Bengal on Friday, with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places and heavy rains at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast. "The eye of the storm is likely to be weakened when it enters West Bengal. The wind speed will be around 100 kmph to 110 kmph," an official of the meteorological department said. According to the National Emergency Response Centre, under the home ministry, power and telecommunication lines in Puri district of Odisha are completely down and restoration work is on. Rescuers belonging to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Navy, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force have been deployed in a mass operations, closely monitored by the central government. × Moderate rainfall is expected at most places, heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of interior parts of the state on Friday. Most places in Odisha is likely to receive light to moderate rains on Saturday with heavy to very heavy rainfall occurring at isolated places in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts. In Andhra Pradesh, light to moderate rainfall is likely at most places with heavy to very heavy rains at isolated places over Srikakulam district on Friday. Also light to moderate rainfall is likely in West Bengal on Friday, with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places. Light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places and heavy rains at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Three dead as Cyclone Fani heads to West Bengal; heavy rainfall predicted in Odisha, AP, Bengal, Northeast

Three people have been killed as cyclone Fani made a landfall in Puri. Watch full video to know more.

3 dead as Cyclone Fani hits Odisha

In this video to WION, we brings to you latest from Odisha where to tackle Cyclone Fani, Two ships & two Chetak helicopters including Army, Navy, Airforce on stand-by. Watch full video to know more.

Cyclone Fani: Two ships & two Chetak helicopters including Army, Navy, Airforce on stand-by

In this video to WION, we brings to you latest from Odisha where according to the IMD department, Cyclone Fani has begun to weaken. Watch full video to know more.

IMD: Cyclone Fani has begun to weaken

Ahead of his visit to Rajasthan to address poll rallies on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a brief clip of his last meeting in Jaipur on Twitter and said, "it is clear the state wants BJP".

In the brief clip, people are seen waving at the prime minister with&nbsp;flashlight of their mobile phones on.&nbsp;

"Looking forward to visiting Rajasthan today. Will be campaigning in Hindaun, Sikar and Bikaner. In order to gauge the mood of the state, here's a short clip from my last rally in Jaipur. It is clear people of the sate want BJP,? Modi tweeted.

The prime minister's last meeting in the Congress-ruled state was on Wednesday evening.

12 seats in Rajasthan, including Ganganagar, Bikaner, Churu, Jhunjhuju, Sikar, Jaipur rural, Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, Dausa and Nagaur will go to poll on May 6.

PM Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi have been intensely campaigning in these seats.&nbsp;

The state has a total of 25 seats and 13 seats went to poll on April 29.

Ahead of his visit to Rajasthan to address poll rallies on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a brief clip of his last meeting in Jaipur on Twitter and said, "it is clear the state wants BJP".

Ahead of his visit to Rajasthan to address poll rallies on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a brief clip of his last meeting in Jaipur on Twitter and said, "it is clear the state wants BJP". In the brief clip, people are seen waving at the prime minister with flashlight of their mobile phones on. "Looking forward to visiting Rajasthan today. Will be campaigning in Hindaun, Sikar and Bikaner. In order to gauge the mood of the state, here's a short clip from my last rally in Jaipur. It is clear people of the sate want BJP,? Modi tweeted. The prime minister's last meeting in the Congress-ruled state was on Wednesday evening. 12 seats in Rajasthan, including Ganganagar, Bikaner, Churu, Jhunjhuju, Sikar, Jaipur rural, Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, Dausa and Nagaur will go to poll on May 6. PM Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi have been intensely campaigning in these seats. The state has a total of 25 seats and 13 seats went to poll on April 29.

PM Modi shares clip of last poll meeting in Jaipur, says it is clear Rajasthan wants BJP

The Supreme Court Friday agreed to hear next week a review plea filed by 21 Opposition leaders seeking a further increase in the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs in the ongoing general elections.

The apex court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in five polling booths per assembly segment from one booth.&nbsp;

The top court, however, had not agreed to the demand of 21 Opposition leaders for counting of at least 50 per cent of VVPAT slips with EVMs in every assembly segment.

Opposition leaders led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had sought the review of the apex court's order, saying the "increase from 1 to 5 is not a reasonable number and does not lead to satisfaction desired by this court".

The plea was mentioned for urgent hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta.&nbsp;

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for petitioners, told the bench that the review plea be listed for hearing next week.

The bench accepted Singhvi's submission and said the matter will be heard next week.

The plea said,&nbsp;"The petitioners submit that the aforesaid increase to a mere 2 per cent is not sufficient and will not make any substantial difference to the situation that existed prior to the passing of the impugned order.&nbsp;

"Therefore, even though the petitioners have succeeded on the merits of their contention, their success does not resolve their grievance or cause any meaningful change to the situation that they were originally aggrieved of."

Referring to earlier observations of the apex court, it had said that the 2 per cent increase in the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs would not achieve the purpose of raising "public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process".

The plea has opposed the Election Commission (EC) argument, which was accepted by the court, that as the elections were nearby and hence it would not be viable to increase the number of a random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs.&nbsp;

"It is submitted that, once this court agrees that the number of EVMs that should be subjected to VVPAT verification should be increased to a 'reasonable number', not increasing the same to a number which is 'reasonable' because it may not be 'viable' to do so renders the entire exercise otiose and futile," the plea has said.

Consequently, the 'viable number' must also necessarily be reasonable, it had said, alleging that at many booths in Andhra Pradesh the VVPAT machines were not working properly.

The Supreme Court Friday agreed to hear next week a review plea filed by 21 Opposition leaders seeking a further increase in the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs in the ongoing general elections.

The Supreme Court Friday agreed to hear next week a review plea filed by 21 Opposition leaders seeking a further increase in the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs in the ongoing general elections. The apex court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in five polling booths per assembly segment from one booth. The top court, however, had not agreed to the demand of 21 Opposition leaders for counting of at least 50 per cent of VVPAT slips with EVMs in every assembly segment. Opposition leaders led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had sought the review of the apex court's order, saying the "increase from 1 to 5 is not a reasonable number and does not lead to satisfaction desired by this court". The plea was mentioned for urgent hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for petitioners, told the bench that the review plea be listed for hearing next week. The bench accepted Singhvi's submission and said the matter will be heard next week. The plea said, "The petitioners submit that the aforesaid increase to a mere 2 per cent is not sufficient and will not make any substantial difference to the situation that existed prior to the passing of the impugned order. "Therefore, even though the petitioners have succeeded on the merits of their contention, their success does not resolve their grievance or cause any meaningful change to the situation that they were originally aggrieved of." Referring to earlier observations of the apex court, it had said that the 2 per cent increase in the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs would not achieve the purpose of raising "public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process". The plea has opposed the Election Commission (EC) argument, which was accepted by the court, that as the elections were nearby and hence it would not be viable to increase the number of a random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs. "It is submitted that, once this court agrees that the number of EVMs that should be subjected to VVPAT verification should be increased to a 'reasonable number', not increasing the same to a number which is 'reasonable' because it may not be 'viable' to do so renders the entire exercise otiose and futile," the plea has said. Consequently, the 'viable number' must also necessarily be reasonable, it had said, alleging that at many booths in Andhra Pradesh the VVPAT machines were not working properly.

Matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs: Supreme Court agrees to hear review plea by 21 opposition leaders next week

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/puri-hit-with-wind-speed-of-240-245-kmph-cyclone-fani-moving-towards-west-bengal-coast-imd-215613&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE1MHL9f7hAhVa7XMBHV9sAYsQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1qLpDJ26kI5Apaiqz828tR">Cyclone Fani</a> in her home state.

"Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days," she tweeted.

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Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CyclonicStormFANI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CyclonicStormFANI</a> We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1124173080081731584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself.

Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-apepdcl-cautions-public-to-be-alert-on-possible-power-accidents-215534&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE1MHL9f7hAhVa7XMBHV9sAYsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1E4dEbQRVfhNr4mmv639WE">severe cyclonic storm Fani</a> which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to Hyderabad IMD.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) tweeted: "The extremely severe cyclonic storm "Fani" is very likely to move north-northeastwards and weaken into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 6 hours."

The landfall began on Friday morning at 8 am with strong winds and rain hitting Puri district.

Helpline number - 1938 - has been made operational by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Indian Coast Guard has positioned 34 disaster relief teams at Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Paradip, Gopalpur, Haldia, Frazergunj and Kolkata besides four ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai.

The system is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards, weaken gradually and emerge into Gangetic West Bengal as a "severe cyclonic storm" by the early morning of May 4.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` Cyclone Fani in her home state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday took to Twitter to inform that she has cancelled all her election rallies for the next two days in the wake of `impending` Cyclone Fani in her home state. "Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days," she tweeted. Have cancelled my rallies for the next 48 hours because of what could be an impending disaster #CyclonicStormFANI We are monitoring the situation 24x7 and doing all it takes. I appeal to all people to cooperate. Be alert, take care and stay safe for the next two days — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 3, 2019 × Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself. Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely severe cyclonic storm Fani which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to Hyderabad IMD. India Meteorological Department (IMD) tweeted: "The extremely severe cyclonic storm "Fani" is very likely to move north-northeastwards and weaken into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 6 hours." The landfall began on Friday morning at 8 am with strong winds and rain hitting Puri district. Helpline number - 1938 - has been made operational by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Indian Coast Guard has positioned 34 disaster relief teams at Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Paradip, Gopalpur, Haldia, Frazergunj and Kolkata besides four ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai. The system is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards, weaken gradually and emerge into Gangetic West Bengal as a "severe cyclonic storm" by the early morning of May 4.

Cyclone Fani: Mamata Banerjee cancels rallies for next 2 days to monitor situation

Terming the United Nations' move of designating <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-issues-order-to-freeze-masood-azhars-assets-impose-travel-ban-215544&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp19Sr-v7hAhWyjuYKHaxNDCUQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1C5DmE00G8R7hLRhr6kweW">Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror.

The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue.

"Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said.

"Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said.

It added that<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-not-celebrating-moment-of-great-pride-arun-jaitley-on-masood-azhar-listing-215319/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitu_Lw-v7hAhUcknAKHcYYBIY4ChAWMAV6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw3voq0i3jLLbwqXuSqL6naJ"> it was unfortunate that the Congress</a> even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist".

"Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said.

One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena&nbsp;added.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing. In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror. The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue. "Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said. "Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said. It added that it was unfortunate that the Congress even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist". "Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said. One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena added.

Shiv Sena slams Congress for questioning timing of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a 'global terrorist'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released Rs 1,000 crore in advance for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/puri-hit-with-wind-speed-of-240-245-kmph-cyclone-fani-moving-towards-west-bengal-coast-imd-215613">&nbsp;cyclone Fani-affected states</a> on Friday, news agency PTI reported after Fani slammed Odisha and forced a million people to flee.

Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely severe cyclonic storm Fani which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to India Meteorological Department.

"Centre stands with people in states facing severe cyclone," PM Modi said in a rally at Rajasthan's Hindaun city.

The storm is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast, IMD informed.

Two people have also been killed due to the cyclone while large areas in the seaside pilgrim town of Puri were submerged with water as heavy rains battered the entire coastal belt of the state.

Several trees were also uprooted and thatched structures destroyed at some places including Bhubaneswar.

Indian Navy's P-8I and Dornier have been scheduled to be launched in the afternoon for undertaking an aerial survey to assess the extent of impact and devastation post-Fani.

Meanwhile, Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee cancelled all scheduled rallies for next two days. Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released Rs 1,000 crore in advance for cyclone Fani-affected states on Friday, news agency PTI reported after Fani slammed Odisha and forced a million people to flee.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released Rs 1,000 crore in advance for cyclone Fani-affected states on Friday, news agency PTI reported after Fani slammed Odisha and forced a million people to flee. Earlier in the day, Odisha and adjoining regions were battered by the extremely severe cyclonic storm Fani which made landfall in Puri district with a wind speed of around 245 kmph, according to India Meteorological Department. "Centre stands with people in states facing severe cyclone," PM Modi said in a rally at Rajasthan's Hindaun city. The storm is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast, IMD informed. Two people have also been killed due to the cyclone while large areas in the seaside pilgrim town of Puri were submerged with water as heavy rains battered the entire coastal belt of the state. Several trees were also uprooted and thatched structures destroyed at some places including Bhubaneswar. Indian Navy's P-8I and Dornier have been scheduled to be launched in the afternoon for undertaking an aerial survey to assess the extent of impact and devastation post-Fani. Meanwhile, Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee cancelled all scheduled rallies for next two days. Banerjee will stay in Kharagpur in West Bengal, near the coastal belt and monitor the situation herself. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-landfall-cyclone-fani-has-moved-inland-into-odisha-imd-215570">tracking cyclone Fani</a> said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

Two people were killed due to the cyclone, an official said.

One man died of a heart attack in one of several thousand shelters that have been set up, AFP reported.

"Another person went out in the storm despite our warnings and died because a tree fell on him," Odisha special relief commissioner Bishnupada Sethi said.

Indian Navy's P-8I and Dornier have been scheduled to be launched in the afternoon for undertaking aerial survey to assess the extent of impact and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-telecommunication-networks-partially-disrupted-in-puri-bhubaneswar-215591">devastation post-Fani</a>.

Heavy rainfall and strong winds hit Ganjam as cyclone Fani hit the Puri coast with wind speed of above 175km/per hour.

"In the next three hours, Cyclone Fani is expected to weaken with a wind speed of 150-160 km per hour, subsequently it will weaken and move north-northeastwards. By evening, it may weaken into severe cyclonic storm over extreme northern part of Odisha," Mrityunjay Mohapatra, IMD official in Delhi said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/first-pics-from-odisha-as-cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-215566#gusty-winds-215560">Also See:&nbsp;First pics from Odisha as Cyclone Fani makes landfall</a>

Meanwhile, Airports Authority of India said no flight to and from Kolkata airport will be allowed to fly from 3pm today till 8am on Saturday. In a series of tweets, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said Friday that all airlines must immediately respond to the concerns of passengers affected by Cyclone Fani.

"We are ready to offer help needed for the stranded due to cyclonic storm Fani. The control room, helplines are manned all times to assist affected passengers. All Airlines must immediately respond to the concerns of passengers," he tweeted.

In West Bengal, NDRF team have been deployed at Digha. The disaster relief team have evacuated 132 people, including 52 children, from Dattapur and Tajpur.

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast. Two people were killed due to the cyclone, an official said. One man died of a heart attack in one of several thousand shelters that have been set up, AFP reported. "Another person went out in the storm despite our warnings and died because a tree fell on him," Odisha special relief commissioner Bishnupada Sethi said. Indian Navy's P-8I and Dornier have been scheduled to be launched in the afternoon for undertaking aerial survey to assess the extent of impact and devastation post-Fani. Heavy rainfall and strong winds hit Ganjam as cyclone Fani hit the Puri coast with wind speed of above 175km/per hour. "In the next three hours, Cyclone Fani is expected to weaken with a wind speed of 150-160 km per hour, subsequently it will weaken and move north-northeastwards. By evening, it may weaken into severe cyclonic storm over extreme northern part of Odisha," Mrityunjay Mohapatra, IMD official in Delhi said. Also See: First pics from Odisha as Cyclone Fani makes landfall Meanwhile, Airports Authority of India said no flight to and from Kolkata airport will be allowed to fly from 3pm today till 8am on Saturday. In a series of tweets, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said Friday that all airlines must immediately respond to the concerns of passengers affected by Cyclone Fani. "We are ready to offer help needed for the stranded due to cyclonic storm Fani. The control room, helplines are manned all times to assist affected passengers. All Airlines must immediately respond to the concerns of passengers," he tweeted. In West Bengal, NDRF team have been deployed at Digha. The disaster relief team have evacuated 132 people, including 52 children, from Dattapur and Tajpur.

Cyclone Fani hits Puri with wind speeds of 240-245 kmph; 2 dead in Odisha

WION exclusively speaks to Josh Morgerman is an obsessive stormchaser and gain his insight on Cyclone Fani. Watch video to know more.

WION speaks to Josh Morgerman, an obsessive stormchaser

A special CBI court on Friday extended the&nbsp;judicial custody of alleged defence agent Sushen Mohan Gupta&nbsp;till May 9 in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam case.

He was produced by Tihar Jail authorities before special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar who passed the order.

Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told a special CBI court that Gupta tried "his best, but could not destroy the evidence".

The ED had told the court&nbsp;that two diaries in the form of a pen drive were recovered from the possession of Saxena, which allegedly belonged to Gupta.

In his bail plea, which was rejected by the court on April 20,&nbsp;he had said that he fully cooperated with investigation agencies and had complied with all directions given by them, adding that he has neither been accused of evading the law nor has he interfered with the investigation in any manner.

Gupta was arrested on March 26 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail. The court, on April 8, had sent Gupta to judicial custody till April 20.

A special CBI court on Friday extended the judicial custody of alleged defence agent Sushen Mohan Gupta till May 9 in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam case.

A special CBI court on Friday extended the judicial custody of alleged defence agent Sushen Mohan Gupta till May 9 in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam case. He was produced by Tihar Jail authorities before special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar who passed the order. Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told a special CBI court that Gupta tried "his best, but could not destroy the evidence". The ED had told the court that two diaries in the form of a pen drive were recovered from the possession of Saxena, which allegedly belonged to Gupta. In his bail plea, which was rejected by the court on April 20, he had said that he fully cooperated with investigation agencies and had complied with all directions given by them, adding that he has neither been accused of evading the law nor has he interfered with the investigation in any manner. Gupta was arrested on March 26 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail. The court, on April 8, had sent Gupta to judicial custody till April 20.

AgustaWestland case: Judicial custody of Sushen Gupta extended till May 9

The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a plea by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party against the notice of Tamil Nadu Assembly speaker disqualifying the three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's (AIADMK) MLAs for supporting Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader TTV Dinakaran.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi agreed to hear the plea on May 6.

This decision came after the senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing on the behalf of DMK, pleaded for an early hearing in the matter.

Sibal also told the apex court that speaker of the Tamil Nadu Assembly P&nbsp;Dhanapal himself had faced no-confidence motion while issuing a notice to three AIADMK MLAs, namely Rathinasabapathy, MLA of Aranthangi constituency, VT Kalaiselvan from Virudhachalam constituency, and VT Prabhu from Kallakuruchi constituency.

DMK president MK&nbsp;Stalin had claimed that the ruling AIADMK had sought to disqualify the three MLAs because the intelligence agencies had warned the government that retaining them in the party would have an "unfavourable outcome" in the bypoll to the 22 Assembly constituencies.

The chief whip of AIADMK S&nbsp;Rajendran had on April 26 met Tamil Nadu assembly speaker P&nbsp;Dhanapal and filed a petition to take action against three party MLAs on account of their "anti-party activities."Rajendran has accused the MLAs of working for Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam(AMMK) General Secretary TTV&nbsp;Dhinakaran.

Out of 234 seats in Tamil Nadu assembly, the ruling AIADMK has 114 members, the DMK has 88, the Congress has eight, while the IUML and the Independent members represent one constituency each.

In 2017, a total of 19 AIADMK MLAs had submitted a letter to then Governor CV Raowithdrawing support to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami.

As a retort, Rajendran asked Dhanapal to disqualify the MLAs stating that their actions amounted to voluntarily giving up their party membership.

Tamil Nadu Speaker had on September 18 disqualified 18 MLAs belonging to AIADMK. By-elections for these 18 seats were held on April 18 this year.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a plea by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party against the notice of Tamil Nadu Assembly speaker disqualifying the three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's (AIADMK) MLAs for supporting Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader TTV Dinakaran.

The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a plea by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party against the notice of Tamil Nadu Assembly speaker disqualifying the three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's (AIADMK) MLAs for supporting Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader TTV Dinakaran. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi agreed to hear the plea on May 6. This decision came after the senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing on the behalf of DMK, pleaded for an early hearing in the matter. Sibal also told the apex court that speaker of the Tamil Nadu Assembly P Dhanapal himself had faced no-confidence motion while issuing a notice to three AIADMK MLAs, namely Rathinasabapathy, MLA of Aranthangi constituency, VT Kalaiselvan from Virudhachalam constituency, and VT Prabhu from Kallakuruchi constituency. DMK president MK Stalin had claimed that the ruling AIADMK had sought to disqualify the three MLAs because the intelligence agencies had warned the government that retaining them in the party would have an "unfavourable outcome" in the bypoll to the 22 Assembly constituencies. The chief whip of AIADMK S Rajendran had on April 26 met Tamil Nadu assembly speaker P Dhanapal and filed a petition to take action against three party MLAs on account of their "anti-party activities."Rajendran has accused the MLAs of working for Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam(AMMK) General Secretary TTV Dhinakaran. Out of 234 seats in Tamil Nadu assembly, the ruling AIADMK has 114 members, the DMK has 88, the Congress has eight, while the IUML and the Independent members represent one constituency each. In 2017, a total of 19 AIADMK MLAs had submitted a letter to then Governor CV Raowithdrawing support to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami. As a retort, Rajendran asked Dhanapal to disqualify the MLAs stating that their actions amounted to voluntarily giving up their party membership. Tamil Nadu Speaker had on September 18 disqualified 18 MLAs belonging to AIADMK. By-elections for these 18 seats were held on April 18 this year.

Supreme Court agrees to hear DMK's plea against disqualification of 3 AIADMK MLAs

Cyclone Fani has hit Odisha this morning and has started making its impact felt. Large areas in the temple town of Puri and other places were submerged as heavy rain battered the coast. Watch full video to know more.

Cyclone Fani hits coast, Trees Uprooted, heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha

Indonesia, which is the president of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/long-awaited-action-victory-for-us-diplomacy-mike-pompeo-on-unsc-listing-azhar-as-terrorist-215231">United Nations Security Council(UNSC)</a> for the month of May 2019 and the chair of 1267 committee of the UNSC has said that listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist has preserved the sanctity and credibility of the council and focus is on fighting against terror.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-what-the-listing-of-masood-azhar-as-terrorist-means-215177/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Speaking to reporters at the United Nations at a press conference, Indonesia's permanent representative Dian Triansyah Djani said, "Like to underline, its not just the function of the chair, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/found-no-objection-to-list-azhar-after-studying-revised-materials-china-215122">all members of the committee</a> are working very hard. What is more important is not the role of the chair, but we have been able to preserve the sanctity and credibility of the committee and we have been able to have the listing"

&nbsp;

The chairperson of the United Nations sanctions committee had informed Indian envoy to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin that Masood Azhar has been listed on May 1st.

Asked about the dynamic at the UNSC, given the fact it became China vs the rest of the members of the top body of the secuity council, Indonesian envoy to UN said,"One thing is for sure, time for us to really work together, all the countries, regardless, of UNSC or other fora. We have been experiencing a lot of cases on terror attacks."

Explaining he said, "You know our stance on terrorism, we have been working very hard with others. We have been a victim of terrorism, and that precisely is the point, we took this responsibility...we trying to help in the fight against terror."

Meanwhile, the United Nations welcomed the fact all UNSC members were able to agree on the listing.The spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric said, "It's always good when all member states of the security council agree on something. We would, of course, hope that all member states abide by those decisions."

It took ten&nbsp;years for the listing of Masood Azhar. India had proposed the listing in 2009, but China had continued to block the listing citing lack of consensus. In March of 2019, when China had put a hold at the listing of Masood Azhar, 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backed his listing.&nbsp;

Indonesia, which is the president of the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) for the month of May 2019 and the chair of 1267 committee of the UNSC has said that listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist has preserved the sanctity and credibility of the council and focus is on fighting against terror.

Indonesia, which is the president of the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) for the month of May 2019 and the chair of 1267 committee of the UNSC has said that listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist has preserved the sanctity and credibility of the council and focus is on fighting against terror. Speaking to reporters at the United Nations at a press conference, Indonesia's permanent representative Dian Triansyah Djani said, "Like to underline, its not just the function of the chair, all members of the committee are working very hard. What is more important is not the role of the chair, but we have been able to preserve the sanctity and credibility of the committee and we have been able to have the listing" The chairperson of the United Nations sanctions committee had informed Indian envoy to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin that Masood Azhar has been listed on May 1st. Asked about the dynamic at the UNSC, given the fact it became China vs the rest of the members of the top body of the secuity council, Indonesian envoy to UN said,"One thing is for sure, time for us to really work together, all the countries, regardless, of UNSC or other fora. We have been experiencing a lot of cases on terror attacks." Explaining he said, "You know our stance on terrorism, we have been working very hard with others. We have been a victim of terrorism, and that precisely is the point, we took this responsibility...we trying to help in the fight against terror." Meanwhile, the United Nations welcomed the fact all UNSC members were able to agree on the listing.The spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric said, "It's always good when all member states of the security council agree on something. We would, of course, hope that all member states abide by those decisions." It took ten years for the listing of Masood Azhar. India had proposed the listing in 2009, but China had continued to block the listing citing lack of consensus. In March of 2019, when China had put a hold at the listing of Masood Azhar, 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backed his listing.

Masood Azhar listing: Rare bonhomie as UNSC president says sanctity preserved

The Delhi High Court Thursday granted more time to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to file an affidavit regarding the maintainability of Robert Vadra's plea seeking quashing of a money laundering case in which he was questioned by the probe agency.

A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Vinod Goel directed the ED to file the response within a week and listed the matter for further hearing on July 18.

The court asked Vadra and his close aide, Manoj Arora, to file their rejoinder to the ED's affidavit in two weeks thereafter.

Central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan, appearing for the ED, said the short affidavit was almost ready and they require some more time to file it.

The court had earlier on March 25 asked the probe agency to file its response in the form of an affidavit regarding the maintainability of two separate but similar petitions by Vadra and Arora within two weeks.

The ED had opposed Vadra's plea, saying it was not maintainable as he "wilfully suppressed" material facts from the court.

It had contended that the plea of Vadra, brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, was an abuse of process of law.

When he feared that "law will catch him, he challenged the PMLA provisions", it had added.

The ED case relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square, worth 1.9 million pounds. The property is allegedly owned by Vadra.

Vadra has also sought that various provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, be declared unconstitutional.

Vadra has sought in his plea that Sections 3 (offence of money laundering), 17 (search and seizure), 19 (power to arrest), 24 (burden of proof), 44 (offences triable by special courts) and 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and to give evidence, etc) of the PMLA be declared ultra vires or unconstitutional.

He has contended that since these provisions constitute the main parts of the Act, the entire legislation was liable to be struck down on the grounds of being unconstitutional.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, had earlier argued that in the petition Vadra has not made any reference to the investigation going on here which is under the jurisdiction of the Delhi High Court and he has mainly referred to the probe in Rajasthan land case which is not the subject matter of this FIR.

"The petitioners are fully aware as to for what they were being investigated here but they suppressed the facts in the petition," he had said.

Vadra had said in his petition that while it is permissible for the investigating agencies to conduct further probe, the sweeping investigation power does not warrant subjecting a citizen each time to a fresh investigation in respect of the same incident giving rise to one or more cognisable offences.

The plea had said that multiple investigations have been held in "abuse of statutory power of investigation and therefore second or successive FIRs filed in connection with the same or connected cognisable offence alleged to have been committed in the course of the same transaction pursuant to the first FIR is liable to be quashed".

The petition added that despite the investigation in the land deals in Rajasthan and Haryana by various probe agencies, nothing was found against Vadra and his firms.

"However, in order to harass and humiliate the petitioner, another ECIR (enforcement case information report) was registered into the same deals. It was in this wake of the matter that Rajasthan High Court directed that no coercive steps will be taken against the petitioner (Vadra)," the petition had said.

It had said, "another ECIR was registered with regard to the same assets in India and abroad which were the subject matter of the FIRs and earlier ECIR registered by the Respondent (ED) at Jaipur. The investigation into the subject ECIR also was to be done on the basis of the same documents which had already been supplied."&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court Thursday granted more time to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to file an affidavit regarding the maintainability of Robert Vadra's plea seeking quashing of a money laundering case in which he was questioned by the probe agency.

The Delhi High Court Thursday granted more time to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to file an affidavit regarding the maintainability of Robert Vadra's plea seeking quashing of a money laundering case in which he was questioned by the probe agency. A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Vinod Goel directed the ED to file the response within a week and listed the matter for further hearing on July 18. The court asked Vadra and his close aide, Manoj Arora, to file their rejoinder to the ED's affidavit in two weeks thereafter. Central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan, appearing for the ED, said the short affidavit was almost ready and they require some more time to file it. The court had earlier on March 25 asked the probe agency to file its response in the form of an affidavit regarding the maintainability of two separate but similar petitions by Vadra and Arora within two weeks. The ED had opposed Vadra's plea, saying it was not maintainable as he "wilfully suppressed" material facts from the court. It had contended that the plea of Vadra, brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, was an abuse of process of law. When he feared that "law will catch him, he challenged the PMLA provisions", it had added. The ED case relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property at 12, Bryanston Square, worth 1.9 million pounds. The property is allegedly owned by Vadra. Vadra has also sought that various provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, be declared unconstitutional. Vadra has sought in his plea that Sections 3 (offence of money laundering), 17 (search and seizure), 19 (power to arrest), 24 (burden of proof), 44 (offences triable by special courts) and 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and to give evidence, etc) of the PMLA be declared ultra vires or unconstitutional. He has contended that since these provisions constitute the main parts of the Act, the entire legislation was liable to be struck down on the grounds of being unconstitutional. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, had earlier argued that in the petition Vadra has not made any reference to the investigation going on here which is under the jurisdiction of the Delhi High Court and he has mainly referred to the probe in Rajasthan land case which is not the subject matter of this FIR. "The petitioners are fully aware as to for what they were being investigated here but they suppressed the facts in the petition," he had said. Vadra had said in his petition that while it is permissible for the investigating agencies to conduct further probe, the sweeping investigation power does not warrant subjecting a citizen each time to a fresh investigation in respect of the same incident giving rise to one or more cognisable offences. The plea had said that multiple investigations have been held in "abuse of statutory power of investigation and therefore second or successive FIRs filed in connection with the same or connected cognisable offence alleged to have been committed in the course of the same transaction pursuant to the first FIR is liable to be quashed". The petition added that despite the investigation in the land deals in Rajasthan and Haryana by various probe agencies, nothing was found against Vadra and his firms. "However, in order to harass and humiliate the petitioner, another ECIR (enforcement case information report) was registered into the same deals. It was in this wake of the matter that Rajasthan High Court directed that no coercive steps will be taken against the petitioner (Vadra)," the petition had said. It had said, "another ECIR was registered with regard to the same assets in India and abroad which were the subject matter of the FIRs and earlier ECIR registered by the Respondent (ED) at Jaipur. The investigation into the subject ECIR also was to be done on the basis of the same documents which had already been supplied."

High Court grants time to Enforcement Directorate to file response on maintainability of Robert Vadra's plea

Two villagers were killed by Naxals in Kistaram area of Sukma district on Wednesday night.

This comes a day after 15 police personnel and a driver were killed in a landmine blast triggered by Naxalites in Gadchiroli in the neighbouring state of Maharashtra.

On April 30,&nbsp;a Naxal, carrying a bounty of Rs 5 lakh on her head for her alleged involvement in attacks on security forces and killing villagers, was arrested from state's Dantewada district.

On April 29 six Naxalites, including a woman, were arrested by the security forces from different locations in the state.

Two villagers were killed by Naxals in Kistaram area of Sukma district on Wednesday night. This comes a day after 15 police personnel and a driver were killed in a landmine blast triggered by Naxalites in Gadchiroli in the neighbouring state of Maharashtra.

Two villagers were killed by Naxals in Kistaram area of Sukma district on Wednesday night. This comes a day after 15 police personnel and a driver were killed in a landmine blast triggered by Naxalites in Gadchiroli in the neighbouring state of Maharashtra. On April 30, a Naxal, carrying a bounty of Rs 5 lakh on her head for her alleged involvement in attacks on security forces and killing villagers, was arrested from state's Dantewada district. On April 29 six Naxalites, including a woman, were arrested by the security forces from different locations in the state.

Chhattisgarh: Naxals kill 2 villagers in Sukma

How India moved at UNSC to designate Masood Azhar a global terrorist

Ceremonial border personnel meetings on the occasion of "International Labour Day" were conducted at Chinese BPM huts at Moldo and TWT meeting points opposite eastern Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.

"The ceremonial border personnel meeting was marked by saluting the national flag by members of the delegations. This was followed by the ceremonial address by delegation leaders and exchange of greetings," Army PRO said in a statement.

Both sides reflected the mutual desire of maintaining peace,&nbsp;tranquillity and improving relations at functional level at the border areas.&nbsp;

On the occasion, a cultural programme was organised by the Chinese side which showcased its vibrant culture and traditions.

"Both the delegations interacted in a free, congenial and cordial environment. The delegations parted amidst a feeling of friendship and commitment towards enhancing the existing cordial relations and maintaining peace along the border areas," the statement read.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<img alt="Ceremonial border personnel meeting" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1434db66-675e-4c65-b5b8-d8c4be7d3321" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_1.jpg" />

<img alt="ceremonial border personnel meeting" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df073b1d-cd8d-4e32-a42d-340d867c0c33" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_1.jpg" />

(Photo courtesy: WION)

Ceremonial border personnel meetings on the occasion of "International Labour Day" were conducted at Chinese BPM huts at Moldo and TWT meeting points opposite eastern Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.

Ceremonial border personnel meetings on the occasion of "International Labour Day" were conducted at Chinese BPM huts at Moldo and TWT meeting points opposite eastern Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. "The ceremonial border personnel meeting was marked by saluting the national flag by members of the delegations. This was followed by the ceremonial address by delegation leaders and exchange of greetings," Army PRO said in a statement. Both sides reflected the mutual desire of maintaining peace, tranquillity and improving relations at functional level at the border areas. On the occasion, a cultural programme was organised by the Chinese side which showcased its vibrant culture and traditions. "Both the delegations interacted in a free, congenial and cordial environment. The delegations parted amidst a feeling of friendship and commitment towards enhancing the existing cordial relations and maintaining peace along the border areas," the statement read. (Photo courtesy: WION)

Ladakh: Armies of India, China hold ceremonial border personnel meetings on International Labour Day

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him.

Officials said Ilyas was shifted to SMHS hospital for treatment.

Following the attack, security forces cordoned off the area are searching for the attackers.

Ilyas was posted with the special branch of the district police in Handwara of north Kashmir.

A senior police officer earlier said Ilyas had died.

However, a police spokesman later clarified he was critically injured and has been admitted to the hospital where his condition is critical.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him.

A police constable was shot and injured by suspected terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's capital Srinagar on Wednesday evening. Sources said head constable Mohammad Ilyas was at home on leave when suspected terrorists barged into his house in Khanyar and shot him. Officials said Ilyas was shifted to SMHS hospital for treatment. Following the attack, security forces cordoned off the area are searching for the attackers. Ilyas was posted with the special branch of the district police in Handwara of north Kashmir. A senior police officer earlier said Ilyas had died. However, a police spokesman later clarified he was critically injured and has been admitted to the hospital where his condition is critical. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K cop on leave shot by suspected terrorists in Srinagar

India has evacuated more than 200,000 people along its eastern and southeastern coastline by boat, bus, and train on Thursday (May 02) ahead of a severe cyclone due to make landfall on Friday (May 03), with many villagers piling household possessions on to trucks before fleeing their homes.

Towns evacuate, tourists flee as cyclone churns towards Indian southeastern coast

Pakistan Army opened fire on Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) on Thursday morning.

Around 9:30 am (IST), the Pakistan army initiated unprovoked firing which was immediately retaliated by the Indian army.

“Pak initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation starting with the firing of small arms followed by shelling with mortars along LoC in Shahpur and&nbsp;Kirni sectors in Poonch district,” Indian army said in a statement.&nbsp;

There were no immediate reports of any injuries in the area, however, district administration have ordered&nbsp;suspension of&nbsp;school in Kerni sector due&nbsp;to the firing.&nbsp;

Last month Pakistan had shelled the area with mortars and firing small arms along the LoC injuring at least two civilians. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Army opened fire on Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday morning. Around 9:30 am (IST), the Pakistan army initiated unprovoked firing which was immediately retaliated by the Indian army.

Pakistan Army opened fire on Indian troops along the Line of Control(LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday morning. Around 9:30 am (IST), the Pakistan army initiated unprovoked firing which was immediately retaliated by the Indian army. “Pak initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation starting with the firing of small arms followed by shelling with mortars along LoC in Shahpur and Kirni sectors in Poonch district,” Indian army said in a statement. There were no immediate reports of any injuries in the area, however, district administration have ordered suspension of school in Kerni sector due to the firing. Last month Pakistan had shelled the area with mortars and firing small arms along the LoC injuring at least two civilians.

Pak troops open fire along LoC in J&K; Indian security forces retaliate

The Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh concluded his three-day visit to the valley with a tour of the hinterland and frontier districts of North Kashmir to review the prevailing security situation. &nbsp;

“The army commander accompanied by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon visited units and formations in the hinterland in South Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir, where he was briefed by the commanders about the counterterrorism and counter-infiltration grid and measures in place to safeguard the borders,” the Indian army said in a statement.&nbsp;

The army commander complimented the troops for their relentless efforts in thwarting the adversary’s designs and maintaining a constant vigil in the harshest terrain and weather.

&nbsp;“The Army Commander also lauded the exemplary synergy amongst all the forces and appreciated the actions taken by the units and formations in ensuring safety and wellbeing of the people residing in the vicinity of the LoC,” the statement added.&nbsp;

This visit has come as snow has started melting on the LoC which could lead to an increase in infiltration by terrorists from Pakistan.

The Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh concluded his three-day visit to the valley with a tour of the hinterland and frontier districts of North Kashmir to review the prevailing security situation.

The Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh concluded his three-day visit to the valley with a tour of the hinterland and frontier districts of North Kashmir to review the prevailing security situation. “The army commander accompanied by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon visited units and formations in the hinterland in South Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir, where he was briefed by the commanders about the counterterrorism and counter-infiltration grid and measures in place to safeguard the borders,” the Indian army said in a statement. The army commander complimented the troops for their relentless efforts in thwarting the adversary’s designs and maintaining a constant vigil in the harshest terrain and weather. “The Army Commander also lauded the exemplary synergy amongst all the forces and appreciated the actions taken by the units and formations in ensuring safety and wellbeing of the people residing in the vicinity of the LoC,” the statement added. This visit has come as snow has started melting on the LoC which could lead to an increase in infiltration by terrorists from Pakistan.

Northern army commander visits valley, reviews security 

The Election Commission Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his alleged remarks that the Narendra Modi government has enacted a new law which allows tribal to be shot at.

Citing his speech made in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh on April 23, the commission pointed at a provision of the model code which bars&nbsp;"unverified" allegations to be levelled against political opponents.

Gandhi has been given 48 hours to respond to the notice, failing which it will take action without further reference to him.

Two BJP workers had approached the EC with the complaint, following which a report was sought from MP poll authorities.

According to a broad translation of the Hindi speech available on the internet, Gandhi had alleged: "Narendra Modi government has made a new law for tribals in which there is a line that says tribals can be shot at...They snatch your land, take away your jungle and water and then say that tribals can be shot at."&nbsp;

The Election Commission Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his alleged remarks that the Narendra Modi government has enacted a new law which allows tribal to be shot at.

The Election Commission Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his alleged remarks that the Narendra Modi government has enacted a new law which allows tribal to be shot at. Citing his speech made in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh on April 23, the commission pointed at a provision of the model code which bars "unverified" allegations to be levelled against political opponents. Gandhi has been given 48 hours to respond to the notice, failing which it will take action without further reference to him. Two BJP workers had approached the EC with the complaint, following which a report was sought from MP poll authorities. According to a broad translation of the Hindi speech available on the internet, Gandhi had alleged: "Narendra Modi government has made a new law for tribals in which there is a line that says tribals can be shot at...They snatch your land, take away your jungle and water and then say that tribals can be shot at."

Election Commission notice to Rahul Gandhi over alleged tribal remark

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