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A Delhi court Tuesday allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-seeks-delhi-police-reply-on-shashi-tharoors-plea-to-travel-abroad-214562">Congress leader Shashi Tharoor</a>, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad.

Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20.

In his application, Tharoor had claimed that he has to attend certain press conferences there.

While granting him bail in the case, the court had directed not to leave the country without its prior permission.

The former Union minister has been charged under Sections 498-A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 of the IPC, but has not been arrested in the case.

Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel as the official bungalow of Tharoor was being renovated at that time.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Tuesday allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20.

A Delhi court Tuesday allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20. In his application, Tharoor had claimed that he has to attend certain press conferences there. While granting him bail in the case, the court had directed not to leave the country without its prior permission. The former Union minister has been charged under Sections 498-A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 of the IPC, but has not been arrested in the case. Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel as the official bungalow of Tharoor was being renovated at that time.

Delhi court allows Shashi Tharoor to travel abroad

The Indian Army will send pictures and videos of large "mysterious footprints" captured by its personnel in the higher Himalayas to domain experts, sources said on Tuesday, a day after its claim suggesting the presence of the mythical <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yeti-footprints-indian-army-tweets-pictures-as-proof-214745">Yeti close to the Makalu Base Camp</a> in Nepal earlier this month.

On Monday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trolled-over-yeti-picture-army-sources-say-will-release-video-proof-today-214658">Army claimed its mountaineering expedition</a> team in Nepal found mysterious large footprints in the snow that they believe belong to the Yeti or the abominable snowman.

In Nepali folklore, Yeti is a mythical ape-like creature taller than an average human that is said to inhabit the Himalayas, Siberia, Central and East Asia. 
"For the first time, an #IndianArmy Mountaineering Expedition Team has sited (sic) Mysterious Footprints of mythical beast 'Yeti' measuring 32x15 inches close to Makalu Base Camp on 09 April 2019. This elusive snowman has only been sighted at Makalu-Barun National Park in the past," the Army tweeted on Monday night.

The Army also released photos showing large footprints in the snow which they claim to belong to the creature.

An Army team of 18 personnel led by Major Manoj Joshi embarked on an expedition to Mount Makalu in Nepal on April 2. On April 9, the team spotted "mysterious footprints" measuring 32 X 15 inches to close to the Makalu base camp, the sources said.

They said the pictures were sent by the team using satellite communication.

"We will share the photos and videos with domain experts to understand more about this," the sources said.

They did not elaborate on which domain experts they will approach. 
The team is expected to be back in India next month.

Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8,485 metres. It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas, some 19 kilometres southeast of Mount Everest, on the border between Nepal and Tibet, China.

Stories of the Yeti first emerged as a facet of Western popular culture in the 19th century.&nbsp;

Given the lack of evidence of its existence, the scientific community has generally regarded the Yeti as a legend.&nbsp;

In one genetic study, researchers matched DNA from hair samples found in the Himalaya with a prehistoric bear from the Pleistocene epoch.&nbsp;

Though the hunt for the mythical beast stretches back centuries, tales of a wild hairy beast roaming the Himalayas captured the imagination of climbers in Nepal in the 1920s, prompting many, including Sir Edmund Hillary, to go looking for the creature.&nbsp;

Sightings have been reported for centuries. Footprints have been spotted and stories have been passed down from generation to generation.&nbsp;

A 2017 DNA study of purported Yeti samples from museums and private collections provided insight into the origins of this Himalayan legend.&nbsp;

The research, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, analysed nine Yeti specimens, including bone, tooth, skin, hair and faecal samples collected in the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau.&nbsp;

Of those, one turned out to be from a dog. The other eight were from Asian bears -- one from an Asian black bear, one from a Himalayan brown bear, and the other six from Tibetan brown bears.&nbsp;

Our findings strongly suggest that the biological underpinnings of the Yeti legend can be found in local bears, and our study demonstrates that genetics should be able to unravel other, similar mysteries, said lead scientist of that study, Charlotte Lindqvist, an associate professor at the University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences.&nbsp;

Lindqvist's team was not the first to research the Yeti DNA, but past projects ran simpler genetic analyses, which left important questions unresolved.&nbsp;

This study represents the most rigorous analysis to date of samples suspected to derive from anomalous or mythical hominid'-like creatures, Lindqvist and her co-authors wrote in their paper.&nbsp;

The Indian Army will send pictures and videos of large "mysterious footprints" captured by its personnel in the higher Himalayas to domain experts, sources said on Tuesday, a day after its claim suggesting the presence of the mythical Yeti close to the Makalu Base Camp in Nepal earlier this month.

The Indian Army will send pictures and videos of large "mysterious footprints" captured by its personnel in the higher Himalayas to domain experts, sources said on Tuesday, a day after its claim suggesting the presence of the mythical Yeti close to the Makalu Base Camp in Nepal earlier this month. On Monday, the Army claimed its mountaineering expedition team in Nepal found mysterious large footprints in the snow that they believe belong to the Yeti or the abominable snowman. In Nepali folklore, Yeti is a mythical ape-like creature taller than an average human that is said to inhabit the Himalayas, Siberia, Central and East Asia. "For the first time, an #IndianArmy Mountaineering Expedition Team has sited (sic) Mysterious Footprints of mythical beast 'Yeti' measuring 32x15 inches close to Makalu Base Camp on 09 April 2019. This elusive snowman has only been sighted at Makalu-Barun National Park in the past," the Army tweeted on Monday night. The Army also released photos showing large footprints in the snow which they claim to belong to the creature. An Army team of 18 personnel led by Major Manoj Joshi embarked on an expedition to Mount Makalu in Nepal on April 2. On April 9, the team spotted "mysterious footprints" measuring 32 X 15 inches to close to the Makalu base camp, the sources said. They said the pictures were sent by the team using satellite communication. "We will share the photos and videos with domain experts to understand more about this," the sources said. They did not elaborate on which domain experts they will approach. The team is expected to be back in India next month. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8,485 metres. It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas, some 19 kilometres southeast of Mount Everest, on the border between Nepal and Tibet, China. Stories of the Yeti first emerged as a facet of Western popular culture in the 19th century. Given the lack of evidence of its existence, the scientific community has generally regarded the Yeti as a legend. In one genetic study, researchers matched DNA from hair samples found in the Himalaya with a prehistoric bear from the Pleistocene epoch. Though the hunt for the mythical beast stretches back centuries, tales of a wild hairy beast roaming the Himalayas captured the imagination of climbers in Nepal in the 1920s, prompting many, including Sir Edmund Hillary, to go looking for the creature. Sightings have been reported for centuries. Footprints have been spotted and stories have been passed down from generation to generation. A 2017 DNA study of purported Yeti samples from museums and private collections provided insight into the origins of this Himalayan legend. The research, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, analysed nine Yeti specimens, including bone, tooth, skin, hair and faecal samples collected in the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau. Of those, one turned out to be from a dog. The other eight were from Asian bears -- one from an Asian black bear, one from a Himalayan brown bear, and the other six from Tibetan brown bears. Our findings strongly suggest that the biological underpinnings of the Yeti legend can be found in local bears, and our study demonstrates that genetics should be able to unravel other, similar mysteries, said lead scientist of that study, Charlotte Lindqvist, an associate professor at the University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences. Lindqvist's team was not the first to research the Yeti DNA, but past projects ran simpler genetic analyses, which left important questions unresolved. This study represents the most rigorous analysis to date of samples suspected to derive from anomalous or mythical hominid'-like creatures, Lindqvist and her co-authors wrote in their paper.

Army to send pics of 'Yeti' footprints to domain experts

Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), met the Tamil Nadu assembly secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the assembly speaker P Dhanapal.

The move was initiated after the speaker sent notices to three AIADMK MLAs who are allegedly supporting TTV Dinakaran’s Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) party.&nbsp;

Last week, AIADMK's whip had submitted a recommendation to the speaker to act against the MLAs for what he called “anti-party” activities.

On April 26, AIADMK chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to assembly speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs - E Rathinasabapathi, VT Kalaiselvan and Prabhuthey who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

Right after word crept out regarding the recommendation of the disqualification of the three MLAs, DMK President MK Stalin had said that his party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters after submitting the notice to move the no-confidence motion, DMK organizing secretary RS Bharathi said that, in 2017 the speaker had disqualified 18 MLAs and now the speaker has sent notices to three MLAs, DMK President M K Stalin does not accept this murder of democracy, as the speaker is acting in a biased manner.&nbsp;

Regarding the recently concluded bye-polls to 18 assembly constituencies in the state and the impending bye-polls to 4 seats, Bharathi said that the DMK is confident of winning all 22 seats but the party won’t be a silent spectator.&nbsp;

Opposition parties in the state allege the AIADMK government, which is surviving on a slim majority, is attempting to lower the strength of the house, fearing an impending defeat in the bye-elections.

While the AIADMK government does face a major challenge in these polls, it is also true that the DMK and its allies must sweep almost all 22 seats in order to get the simple majority in the house.&nbsp;

The issue of MLAs disqualification had taken centre-stage in Tamil Nadu politics after the speaker had disqualified 18 AIADMK legislators who had offered support to AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran in September 2017.

Dinakaran had fought a long battle in court to get the MLAs reinstated, but it went in vain after the Madras High Court upheld the disqualification in a judgement delivered in November 2018.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), met the Tamil Nadu assembly secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the assembly speaker P Dhanapal.

Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), met the Tamil Nadu assembly secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the assembly speaker P Dhanapal. The move was initiated after the speaker sent notices to three AIADMK MLAs who are allegedly supporting TTV Dinakaran’s Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) party. Last week, AIADMK's whip had submitted a recommendation to the speaker to act against the MLAs for what he called “anti-party” activities. On April 26, AIADMK chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to assembly speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs - E Rathinasabapathi, VT Kalaiselvan and Prabhuthey who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi assembly constituencies respectively. Right after word crept out regarding the recommendation of the disqualification of the three MLAs, DMK President MK Stalin had said that his party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. Speaking to reporters after submitting the notice to move the no-confidence motion, DMK organizing secretary RS Bharathi said that, in 2017 the speaker had disqualified 18 MLAs and now the speaker has sent notices to three MLAs, DMK President M K Stalin does not accept this murder of democracy, as the speaker is acting in a biased manner. Regarding the recently concluded bye-polls to 18 assembly constituencies in the state and the impending bye-polls to 4 seats, Bharathi said that the DMK is confident of winning all 22 seats but the party won’t be a silent spectator. Opposition parties in the state allege the AIADMK government, which is surviving on a slim majority, is attempting to lower the strength of the house, fearing an impending defeat in the bye-elections. While the AIADMK government does face a major challenge in these polls, it is also true that the DMK and its allies must sweep almost all 22 seats in order to get the simple majority in the house. The issue of MLAs disqualification had taken centre-stage in Tamil Nadu politics after the speaker had disqualified 18 AIADMK legislators who had offered support to AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran in September 2017. Dinakaran had fought a long battle in court to get the MLAs reinstated, but it went in vain after the Madras High Court upheld the disqualification in a judgement delivered in November 2018.

DMK initiates no-confidence petition against assembly speaker after notices issued to AIADMK MLAs 

A look at the popular slogans of the Indian elections

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-on-high-alert-as-cyclone-fani-progresses-214601">towards the Odisha coast</a>, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.&nbsp;

It could take a shape of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-forces-iaf-to-postpone-brahmos-testfiring-214565">'extremely severe cyclone'</a> by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said.

In its 9 pm bulletin, the Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the storm currently lays about 620 km east-northeast of the Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, 770 km east-southeast of Chennai and 900 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QENero3ITPI" width="560"></iframe>

"The Cyclonic storm 'Fani' (pronounced as Foni) over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood moved north-northwestwards with a speed of about 16 kilometres per hour in last six hours, intensified into a severe cyclonic storm.&nbsp;

"It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 24 hours and into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards the Odisha coast," the bulletin said.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Severe Cyclonic ‘FANI’ is very likely to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic during next 12 hrs &amp; into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic during subsequent 24 hrs. To move northwestwards till 01st May evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards Odisha Coast. <a href="https://t.co/8JrTkkiH6b">pic.twitter.com/8JrTkkiH6b</a>
— India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1122965181342961664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), the country's top body to deal with emergency situation, Monday took stock of the situation arising out of cyclone 'Fani' and assured the state governments concerned of all assistance from the central government to face the storm.

The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard have been put on high alert and the fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea as cyclone 'Fani' is expected to intensify into a 'very severe storm' by Tuesday, the Home Ministry said.

The wind speed of a cyclonic storm is 80-90 kilometres per hour with wind gusting up to 100 kmph. In case of an 'extremely severe cyclonic storm', the wind speed goes up to 170-180 kmph and could gain the speed of 195 kmph.&nbsp;

Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on Thursday.

The precipitation is likely to increase intensity with 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh from Thursday.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places. Downpour at isolated places is also very likely to start over coastal districts of West Bengal from Friday, the IMD said.

The NCMC met here under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha and took stock of the situation. Chief secretaries, principal secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal attended the meeting through video conference.&nbsp;

Senior officers from the central ministries and agencies concerned also attended the meeting.

The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard are coordinating with the state governments. The home ministry has assured the state governments to release in advance the first instalment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), as per their request, a Home Ministry statement said.

During the meeting, officers of all the state governments concerned confirmed their full preparedness to deal with any emerging situation arising out of the cyclonic storm.&nbsp;

Further, the state government highlighted that there is a seasonal ban on fishing in sea up to June 14 due to breeding season.

The state governments were advised to effectively enforce this ban.

According to the IMD, the cyclone's landfall over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh is ruled out. However, the possibility of landfall in Odisha is under continuous watch. 
Regular warnings have been issued since April 25 to fishermen not to venture into the sea and asking those at sea to return to the coast.&nbsp;

The IMD has been issuing three hourly bulletins with latest forecast to all the states concerned. The Home Ministry is also in continuous touch with the state governments and the central agencies concerned, the statement said.

The NCMC meeting followed directions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is closely monitoring the situation. The NCMC will meet again Tuesday to take stock of the situation.

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. It could take a shape of an 'extremely severe cyclone' by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said.

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. It could take a shape of an 'extremely severe cyclone' by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said. In its 9 pm bulletin, the Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the storm currently lays about 620 km east-northeast of the Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, 770 km east-southeast of Chennai and 900 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam. "The Cyclonic storm 'Fani' (pronounced as Foni) over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood moved north-northwestwards with a speed of about 16 kilometres per hour in last six hours, intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. "It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 24 hours and into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards the Odisha coast," the bulletin said. Severe Cyclonic ‘FANI’ is very likely to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic during next 12 hrs & into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic during subsequent 24 hrs. To move northwestwards till 01st May evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards Odisha Coast. pic.twitter.com/8JrTkkiH6b — India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) April 29, 2019 × The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), the country's top body to deal with emergency situation, Monday took stock of the situation arising out of cyclone 'Fani' and assured the state governments concerned of all assistance from the central government to face the storm. The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard have been put on high alert and the fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea as cyclone 'Fani' is expected to intensify into a 'very severe storm' by Tuesday, the Home Ministry said. The wind speed of a cyclonic storm is 80-90 kilometres per hour with wind gusting up to 100 kmph. In case of an 'extremely severe cyclonic storm', the wind speed goes up to 170-180 kmph and could gain the speed of 195 kmph. Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on Thursday. The precipitation is likely to increase intensity with 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh from Thursday. Light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places. Downpour at isolated places is also very likely to start over coastal districts of West Bengal from Friday, the IMD said. The NCMC met here under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha and took stock of the situation. Chief secretaries, principal secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal attended the meeting through video conference. Senior officers from the central ministries and agencies concerned also attended the meeting. The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard are coordinating with the state governments. The home ministry has assured the state governments to release in advance the first instalment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), as per their request, a Home Ministry statement said. During the meeting, officers of all the state governments concerned confirmed their full preparedness to deal with any emerging situation arising out of the cyclonic storm. Further, the state government highlighted that there is a seasonal ban on fishing in sea up to June 14 due to breeding season. The state governments were advised to effectively enforce this ban. According to the IMD, the cyclone's landfall over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh is ruled out. However, the possibility of landfall in Odisha is under continuous watch. Regular warnings have been issued since April 25 to fishermen not to venture into the sea and asking those at sea to return to the coast. The IMD has been issuing three hourly bulletins with latest forecast to all the states concerned. The Home Ministry is also in continuous touch with the state governments and the central agencies concerned, the statement said. The NCMC meeting followed directions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is closely monitoring the situation. The NCMC will meet again Tuesday to take stock of the situation.

Cyclone Fani has intensified into 'severe cyclonic storm': IMD

Cyclone Fani itensified into a very severe cyclonic storm on Tuesday, and is likely hit the Odisha coast between Puri and Kendrapara by Friday, a senior official said.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is yet to specify the exact location of landfall.

The system is predicted to further gain strength and move in the Northwest direction until tomorrow(Wednesday)evening.&nbsp;

Later it is predicted to move towards North-northeast and head for Odisha coast, thereby not making landfall anywhere near Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

S Balachandran, director, Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, said, "gusty winds of 30-50 kmph speeds are likely in the North Tamil Nadu coast, Kanniyakumari and Gulf of Mannar region, while chances of mild to moderate rainfall remained in the North Tamil Nadu. Rough conditions are expected to prevail in the Northwest and the central Bay of Bengal until May 2."
<img alt="Fani" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0638158f-b263-4794-aeb1-1341f935681f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_2.jpg" />
"There is no landfall over Tamil Nadu and South Andhra coast and that directly impact over the region was ruled out. As per the current data, the system is to move towards the Odisha coast by May 3 evening, while there is no confirmation of it making landfall there," he said.

The possibility of rains in Chennai city brought hopes of a respite from the sweltering heat and humidity, in a city that is already reeling under water scarcity after a severe rainfall deficit. With the cyclone set to move towards Odisha and not getting anywhere close to the Chennai coast, the likelihood of even low to moderate rainfall seems bleak, save for isolated showers.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), 'Fani' was centred at about 760 km southeast of Machilipatnam on Tuesday. It is very likely to intensify further into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during next 36 hours to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter, 'recurve' northeastwards towards the Odisha coast.

Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on May 2. The IMD has forecast rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh on May 3 and 4.

Meanwhile, a statement from the Indian Navy said that the force remains on high alert for cyclone Fani relief efforts.

“The Eastern Naval Command(ENC) has assumed a high degree of readiness to render necessary humanitarian assistance. Indian Naval ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai are standing by to proceed to the most affected areas to undertake Humanitarian Aid Distress relief (HADR), evacuation, logistic support including providing medical aid. Naval aircraft are also standing by at the Naval Air stations INS Rajali at Arakkonam, and INS Dega at Visakhapatnam to undertake reconnaissance, rescue, casualty evacuation and airdrop of relief material to the stranded if required”, said the statement.

Cyclone Fani itensified into a very severe cyclonic storm on Tuesday, and is likely hit the Odisha coast between Puri and Kendrapara by Friday, a senior official said.

Cyclone Fani itensified into a very severe cyclonic storm on Tuesday, and is likely hit the Odisha coast between Puri and Kendrapara by Friday, a senior official said. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is yet to specify the exact location of landfall. The system is predicted to further gain strength and move in the Northwest direction until tomorrow(Wednesday)evening. Later it is predicted to move towards North-northeast and head for Odisha coast, thereby not making landfall anywhere near Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. S Balachandran, director, Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, said, "gusty winds of 30-50 kmph speeds are likely in the North Tamil Nadu coast, Kanniyakumari and Gulf of Mannar region, while chances of mild to moderate rainfall remained in the North Tamil Nadu. Rough conditions are expected to prevail in the Northwest and the central Bay of Bengal until May 2." "There is no landfall over Tamil Nadu and South Andhra coast and that directly impact over the region was ruled out. As per the current data, the system is to move towards the Odisha coast by May 3 evening, while there is no confirmation of it making landfall there," he said. The possibility of rains in Chennai city brought hopes of a respite from the sweltering heat and humidity, in a city that is already reeling under water scarcity after a severe rainfall deficit. With the cyclone set to move towards Odisha and not getting anywhere close to the Chennai coast, the likelihood of even low to moderate rainfall seems bleak, save for isolated showers. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), 'Fani' was centred at about 760 km southeast of Machilipatnam on Tuesday. It is very likely to intensify further into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during next 36 hours to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter, 'recurve' northeastwards towards the Odisha coast. Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on May 2. The IMD has forecast rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh on May 3 and 4. Meanwhile, a statement from the Indian Navy said that the force remains on high alert for cyclone Fani relief efforts. “The Eastern Naval Command(ENC) has assumed a high degree of readiness to render necessary humanitarian assistance. Indian Naval ships at Visakhapatnam and Chennai are standing by to proceed to the most affected areas to undertake Humanitarian Aid Distress relief (HADR), evacuation, logistic support including providing medical aid. Naval aircraft are also standing by at the Naval Air stations INS Rajali at Arakkonam, and INS Dega at Visakhapatnam to undertake reconnaissance, rescue, casualty evacuation and airdrop of relief material to the stranded if required”, said the statement.

Severe cyclonic storm 'Fani' heading towards Odisha

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs.

A leading Indian daily reported that Wadia, who was on a skiing holiday was arrested in early March at New Chitose Airport in the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido after customs officials found 25 grams of "what appeared to be cannabis resin in his trouser pocket".

Reacting to the report, a Wadia group spokesperson said Ness Wadia is in India.

"The judgement is clear. It is a suspended sentence. Hence, it will not impact Ness Wadia in the discharge of any of his responsibilities and he will continue to play the role that he has done hitherto, both within the Group and outside," the spokesperson added.

According to the report, the Sapporo District Court handed Wadia a two-year prison sentence, which was suspended for five years.

He spent a period in detention before his indictment on March 20 and an undisclosed period of detention before a court hearing, it added.

Ness Wadia is a director in major firms of the Wadia group, including Bombay Dyeing and Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Ltd.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs.

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs. A leading Indian daily reported that Wadia, who was on a skiing holiday was arrested in early March at New Chitose Airport in the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido after customs officials found 25 grams of "what appeared to be cannabis resin in his trouser pocket". Reacting to the report, a Wadia group spokesperson said Ness Wadia is in India. "The judgement is clear. It is a suspended sentence. Hence, it will not impact Ness Wadia in the discharge of any of his responsibilities and he will continue to play the role that he has done hitherto, both within the Group and outside," the spokesperson added. According to the report, the Sapporo District Court handed Wadia a two-year prison sentence, which was suspended for five years. He spent a period in detention before his indictment on March 20 and an undisclosed period of detention before a court hearing, it added. Ness Wadia is a director in major firms of the Wadia group, including Bombay Dyeing and Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Ltd.

Wadia Group scion Ness Wadia gets two-year jail term by Japanese court for drug possession

Kerala DGP Loknath Behera said that the state police is on high alert in the wake of the Sri Lanka blasts.

"Kerala Police is at high alert after Sri Lanka blasts," Behera said.

"Alert given to Indian Coast Guard, Commandos and Bomb Detachment Squad. An analysis of large volumes of technical data like phone calls, social media activities being done daily," he added.

More than 250 people were killed and several hundred suffered injuries in the eight coordinated explosions that rattled various churches and high-end hotels located across Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo, Kochchikede and Batticaloa as the Christian community celebrated Easter on April 21.&nbsp;

Kerala DGP Loknath Behera said that the state police is on high alert in the wake of the Sri Lanka blasts. "Kerala Police is at high alert after Sri Lanka blasts," Behera said.

Kerala DGP Loknath Behera said that the state police is on high alert in the wake of the Sri Lanka blasts. "Kerala Police is at high alert after Sri Lanka blasts," Behera said. "Alert given to Indian Coast Guard, Commandos and Bomb Detachment Squad. An analysis of large volumes of technical data like phone calls, social media activities being done daily," he added. More than 250 people were killed and several hundred suffered injuries in the eight coordinated explosions that rattled various churches and high-end hotels located across Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo, Kochchikede and Batticaloa as the Christian community celebrated Easter on April 21.

Kerala Police on 'high alert' after Sri Lanka blasts

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masood-azhars-terror-listing-huge-diplomatic-win-for-india-as-china-says-positive-progress-made-214766">Masood Azhar's terror listing: Huge diplomatic win for India as China says positive progress made</a>

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/made-error-will-apologise-for-chowkidar-chor-hai-comment-rahul-gandhi-to-supreme-court-214727">Made error, will apologise for 'chowkidar chor hai' comment: Rahul Gandhi to Supreme Court</a>

The Supreme Court on Tuesday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi on the affidavit that the Congress president has filed in connection with the court's April 10 verdict on Rafale case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uighur-wives-forced-to-drink-alcohol-and-eat-pork-in-chinas-re-education-camps-214757">Uighur wives forced to drink alcohol and eat pork in China’s ‘re-education’ camps</a>

Their Uighur wives vanished in 2017, swept up in a Chinese dragnet tackling Islamic extremism, now they've been released — but the Pakistani husbands left behind say freedom has come at a price: The women must prove their "adaptability to Chinese society", and publicly sacrifice their religious ideals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-attacks-three-suspects-arrested-van-seized-214771">Sri Lanka attacks: Three suspects arrested, van seized</a>

The Sri Lankan police on Tuesday announced that three suspects were arrested along with a van connected to the devastating Easter Sunday bombings from the country's North Central Province.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-targets-5-billion-e-commerce-exports-from-india-by-2023-214768">Amazon targets $5 billion e-commerce exports from India by 2023</a>

Online marketplace Amazon Tuesday said it expects e-commerce exports from India to reach $5 billion by 2023 under its global selling programme.

Masood Azhar's terror listing: Huge diplomatic win for India as China says positive progress made In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

Masood Azhar's terror listing: Huge diplomatic win for India as China says positive progress made In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front. Made error, will apologise for 'chowkidar chor hai' comment: Rahul Gandhi to Supreme Court The Supreme Court on Tuesday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi on the affidavit that the Congress president has filed in connection with the court's April 10 verdict on Rafale case. Uighur wives forced to drink alcohol and eat pork in China’s ‘re-education’ camps Their Uighur wives vanished in 2017, swept up in a Chinese dragnet tackling Islamic extremism, now they've been released — but the Pakistani husbands left behind say freedom has come at a price: The women must prove their "adaptability to Chinese society", and publicly sacrifice their religious ideals. Sri Lanka attacks: Three suspects arrested, van seized The Sri Lankan police on Tuesday announced that three suspects were arrested along with a van connected to the devastating Easter Sunday bombings from the country's North Central Province. Amazon targets $5 billion e-commerce exports from India by 2023 Online marketplace Amazon Tuesday said it expects e-commerce exports from India to reach $5 billion by 2023 under its global selling programme.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-has-intensified-into-severe-cyclonic-storm-imd-214625">Cyclone Fani</a> hits the state.

"I am in Delhi to meet the Election Commission of India regarding the postponement of the by-elections of Patkura assembly seat in case the cyclone hits Odisha," Patnaik told ANI.

The Chief Minister arrived in the national capital to meet Sunil Arora, the Chief Election Commissioner and other officials of the poll body to discuss his concerns.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fani intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm'&nbsp;on Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, where it may make landfall.

Earlier in the day, Bishnupada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner of Odisha said, "The IMD has predicted the cyclone is likely to hit Odisha coast in Puri district on May 3 late evening. For search and rescue operations, we have alerted 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and 12 units of National Disaster Response Force are ready."

District collectors of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Balasore, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Khurda have been alerted and they have been taking stock of the situation.&nbsp;

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if Cyclone Fani hits the state.

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if Cyclone Fani hits the state. "I am in Delhi to meet the Election Commission of India regarding the postponement of the by-elections of Patkura assembly seat in case the cyclone hits Odisha," Patnaik told ANI. The Chief Minister arrived in the national capital to meet Sunil Arora, the Chief Election Commissioner and other officials of the poll body to discuss his concerns. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fani intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' on Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, where it may make landfall. Earlier in the day, Bishnupada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner of Odisha said, "The IMD has predicted the cyclone is likely to hit Odisha coast in Puri district on May 3 late evening. For search and rescue operations, we have alerted 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and 12 units of National Disaster Response Force are ready." District collectors of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Balasore, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Khurda have been alerted and they have been taking stock of the situation.

Cyclone Fani to hit Puri on Friday; Odisha CM wants polls to be postponed

Narayan Sai, son of self-proclaimed godman Asaram Bapu, was found guilty in a rape case by Surat Sessions Court and has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

The verdict was pronounced on Tuesday. The rape case was filed against him by a former woman devotee in 2013.

47-year-old Sai is lodged at Lajpore Jail in Surat since 2013. Four of his aides, including two women, were also found guilty of various offences and later held by the court, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Sai was convicted under IPC sections 376 (rape), 377 (unnatural offences), 323 (assault), 506-2 (criminal intimidation) and 120-B (conspiracy). As many as 11 people were accused out of which six were acquitted, PTI reported.&nbsp;

Sai was arrested from Delhi-Haryana border in December 2013. Surat Police had filed a 1,100-page charge sheet against Sai in 2014.

 
&nbsp;

Narayan Sai, son of self-proclaimed godman Asaram Bapu, was found guilty in a rape case by Surat Sessions Court and has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The verdict was pronounced on Tuesday.

Narayan Sai, son of self-proclaimed godman Asaram Bapu, was found guilty in a rape case by Surat Sessions Court and has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The verdict was pronounced on Tuesday. The rape case was filed against him by a former woman devotee in 2013. 47-year-old Sai is lodged at Lajpore Jail in Surat since 2013. Four of his aides, including two women, were also found guilty of various offences and later held by the court, news agency PTI reported. Gujarat: Narayan Sai, son of Asaram who was found guilty in a rape case by Surat Sessions Court, has been sentenced to life imprisonment. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/R80kNXo5v6 — ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2019 × Sai was convicted under IPC sections 376 (rape), 377 (unnatural offences), 323 (assault), 506-2 (criminal intimidation) and 120-B (conspiracy). As many as 11 people were accused out of which six were acquitted, PTI reported. Sai was arrested from Delhi-Haryana border in December 2013. Surat Police had filed a 1,100-page charge sheet against Sai in 2014.

Asaram's son Narayan Sai sentenced to life imprisonment in rape case 

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-optimistic-masood-azhar-will-be-listed-as-an-international-terrorist-213730">listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar </a>as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

"At present, the relevant consultations are under way in the 1267 Committee (of United Nations Security Council). Within the framework. And positive progress has been made," said Geng Shuang, spokesperson of China's foreign ministry.

"We have stated our position many times. I won't go detail here. I just want to emphasise that, first, China supports the issue of listing, which should be resolved through political consultation within the framework of the 1267 Committee. I think that is also the consensus of the overwhelming majority of the members of the Council," the spokesperson further added.

WION had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-may-remove-hold-on-masood-azhars-terror-listing-at-un-sources-to-wion-214289">reported on Sunday</a> that China is willing to soften its stand on listing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-evidence-on-masood-azhar-jaish-shared-with-china-will-continue-to-pursue-all-avenues-india-212579">Masood Azhar</a> and could soon announce his listing. The remarks from China comes just few days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the country.

China had put a hold on the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist on March 13 at the 1267 sanctions committee of the UNSC.

Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in China last Monday and gave evidence regarding involvement of Masood Azhar's Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) in terror attacks in India. During his visit, he met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.

"We have shared with China all evidence of terrorist activities of JeM and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the UN to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar," India's external affairs ministry said.

Azhar's JeM was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama attack in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The US, along with UK and France had proposed listing Masood Azhar as an international terrorist in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack.

A United Nations Security Council resolution was also proposed by the US at UNSC after China's hold on listing in March. The listing of Azhar at UNSC will put travel, an arms embargo and freeze his assets which will impact his activities.

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front.

In a huge diplomatic victory for India, China on Tuesday said that it supports the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist and that "positive progress" has been made on this front. "At present, the relevant consultations are under way in the 1267 Committee (of United Nations Security Council). Within the framework. And positive progress has been made," said Geng Shuang, spokesperson of China's foreign ministry. "We have stated our position many times. I won't go detail here. I just want to emphasise that, first, China supports the issue of listing, which should be resolved through political consultation within the framework of the 1267 Committee. I think that is also the consensus of the overwhelming majority of the members of the Council," the spokesperson further added. WION had reported on Sunday that China is willing to soften its stand on listing of Masood Azhar and could soon announce his listing. The remarks from China comes just few days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the country. China had put a hold on the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist on March 13 at the 1267 sanctions committee of the UNSC. Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale was in China last Monday and gave evidence regarding involvement of Masood Azhar's Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) in terror attacks in India. During his visit, he met Chinese officials including Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. "We have shared with China all evidence of terrorist activities of JeM and its leader Masood Azhar. It is now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other authorized bodies of the UN to take a decision on the listing of Masood Azhar," India's external affairs ministry said. Azhar's JeM was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama attack in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The US, along with UK and France had proposed listing Masood Azhar as an international terrorist in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack. A United Nations Security Council resolution was also proposed by the US at UNSC after China's hold on listing in March. The listing of Azhar at UNSC will put travel, an arms embargo and freeze his assets which will impact his activities.

Masood Azhar's terror listing: Huge diplomatic win for India as China says positive progress made

Yeti footprints? Indian Army tweets pictures as proof

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4. The matter has been posted for hearing on May 6. Attorney General KK Venugopal sought four weeks time to file reply on the review.

The direction was given by a top court bench headed by&nbsp;Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Sanjay Kaul and KM Joseph.

The development comes after the apex court on Monday&nbsp;had allowed the Centre to circulate a letter among parties concerned for the adjournment of today's hearing on pleas seeking review of its Rafale deal verdict of December 14 last year.

A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna allowed senior advocate R Balasubramanian, appearing for the Centre, to circulate the letter among the parties which include petitioners who have filed review pleas.

The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it&nbsp;had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France.

The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process".

It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

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SC issues a formal notice to Centre on review petitions filed against the December 14 judgement on Rafale deal. Attorney General KK Venugopal sought four weeks time to file reply on the review. Court asked Centre to file reply by May 4 &amp; posts the matter for hearing on May 6. <a href="https://t.co/J6XBkn6eCq">pic.twitter.com/J6XBkn6eCq</a>
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Meanwhile, the Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions.

The review petitions filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha, Arun Shourie and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan was listed for hearing before a bench headed by the Chief Justice today in the post-lunch session.

Two other review petitions - filed by Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh and advocate Vineet Dhanda - were also listed for hearing on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4. The matter has been posted for hearing on May 6.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4. The matter has been posted for hearing on May 6. Attorney General KK Venugopal sought four weeks time to file reply on the review. The direction was given by a top court bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Sanjay Kaul and KM Joseph. The development comes after the apex court on Monday had allowed the Centre to circulate a letter among parties concerned for the adjournment of today's hearing on pleas seeking review of its Rafale deal verdict of December 14 last year. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna allowed senior advocate R Balasubramanian, appearing for the Centre, to circulate the letter among the parties which include petitioners who have filed review pleas. The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France. The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process". It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets. SC issues a formal notice to Centre on review petitions filed against the December 14 judgement on Rafale deal. Attorney General KK Venugopal sought four weeks time to file reply on the review. Court asked Centre to file reply by May 4 & posts the matter for hearing on May 6. pic.twitter.com/J6XBkn6eCq — ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions. The review petitions filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha, Arun Shourie and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan was listed for hearing before a bench headed by the Chief Justice today in the post-lunch session. Two other review petitions - filed by Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh and advocate Vineet Dhanda - were also listed for hearing on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court asks Centre to reply on Rafale review petition, posts matter for hearing on May 6

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country. 
&nbsp; 
Dev, Congress MP and president of the party's women's wing, had moved Supreme Court alleging PM Modi and Shah violated model code of conduct through their campaigning for elections. Dev also sought direction from the court to the Election Commission to decide without any "demur" the complaints against PM Modi and Amit Shah. 
&nbsp; 
Dev alleged in her petition that "inaction" by EC on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and was "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process. 
&nbsp; 
"It is in public domain that they have indulged in hate speeches, repeatedly used the armed forces for political propaganda, despite a clear prohibition on the same by the EC," Dev said in her petition. 
&nbsp; 
"The lack of decision despite cogent evidences, representations and exhortations to the Respondent/ECI demonstrates abdication and indecision and a complete absence of justice, in ensuring a level playing field in ensuing general elections for the Lok Sabha. The inactions, omissions and commissions by the Respondent/ECI are in complete and direct violation of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and which are impeding free, fair and unbiased general elections," the petition said. 
&nbsp; 
The plea further said that under the Constitution, the poll panel is the "watchdog of free and fair elections and is duty-bound to circumvent the pressure and ascertain that ensuing elections are free from any impediments in order to uphold the democratic sanctity and fundamental rights of the voter". 
&nbsp; 
The court has posted the case for hearing on May 2.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Election Commission of India after hearing Congress MP Sushmita Dev's petition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah for allegedly violating model code of conduct which is in place due to ongoing Lok Sabha polls in the country. Dev, Congress MP and president of the party's women's wing, had moved Supreme Court alleging PM Modi and Shah violated model code of conduct through their campaigning for elections. Dev also sought direction from the court to the Election Commission to decide without any "demur" the complaints against PM Modi and Amit Shah. Dev alleged in her petition that "inaction" by EC on complaints against top BJP leaders was "a sign of invidious discrimination" and was "arbitrary, capricious and impermissible" as it was destructive of the integrity of electoral process. "It is in public domain that they have indulged in hate speeches, repeatedly used the armed forces for political propaganda, despite a clear prohibition on the same by the EC," Dev said in her petition. "The lack of decision despite cogent evidences, representations and exhortations to the Respondent/ECI demonstrates abdication and indecision and a complete absence of justice, in ensuring a level playing field in ensuing general elections for the Lok Sabha. The inactions, omissions and commissions by the Respondent/ECI are in complete and direct violation of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and which are impeding free, fair and unbiased general elections," the petition said. The plea further said that under the Constitution, the poll panel is the "watchdog of free and fair elections and is duty-bound to circumvent the pressure and ascertain that ensuing elections are free from any impediments in order to uphold the democratic sanctity and fundamental rights of the voter". The court has posted the case for hearing on May 2.

Supreme Court issues notice to Election Commission on complaint against PM Modi, Amit Shah

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius.

"There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said.

Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim.

The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in&nbsp; the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha.

With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures.

People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday. The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius. "There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said. Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim. The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha. With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures. People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

Heat wave: Red alert for central India, temperature to hover around 47°C

The Supreme Court on Tuesday&nbsp;has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company.

The 37-year-old former Indian captain, last month,&nbsp;took the debt-ridden real estate group to court, seeking Rs. 40 crore due to him for his services.&nbsp;

Dhoni endorsed Amrapali from 2009 to 2016 and appeared in several advertisements.&nbsp;

Amrapali Group ran into financial difficulties and 46,000 homebuyers, who have already paid for their respective properties, moved the apex court seeking court’s intervention for the handover of properties.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday has ordered Amrapali Group to disclose by tomorrow all payments made to cricketer MS Dhoni who has sued the realty firm over unpaid dues when he was the brand ambassador of the company. The 37-year-old former Indian captain, last month, took the debt-ridden real estate group to court, seeking Rs. 40 crore due to him for his services. Dhoni endorsed Amrapali from 2009 to 2016 and appeared in several advertisements. Amrapali Group ran into financial difficulties and 46,000 homebuyers, who have already paid for their respective properties, moved the apex court seeking court’s intervention for the handover of properties.

On MS Dhoni’s plea, SC asks Amrapali to disclose details of payments

A 200-year-old floating post office in Jammu and Kashmir attracts many tourists

The National Aviator's Guild (NAG), which represents pilots of the grounded carrier Jet Airways, Saturday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "direct" the airline's lender State Bank of India to release one month's salary of all the employees.

WION Wallet: NAG urges PM Modi to ask SBI to release one month's salary to staff

There are as many as 945 candidates who are vying to win over voters in 71 constituencies.

As it happened: Fourth phase polling of Lok Sabha elections 2019

The United States may have topped the list of biggest spender of military equipment with a whopping $649 billion last year, India too figures in the list ranked No-5 with an expenditure of $66.5 billion,&nbsp;according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute(SIPRI).

China is ranked second with an expenditure of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-spending-up-for-first-time-in-seven-years-sipri-214258">$250 billion, accounting for 14 per cent </a>of the world share. Interestingly, India accounts accounted for just 3.7 per cent of the world military expenditure last year, same as Saudi Arabia which spent marginally higher than India at $67.6 billion, SIPRI noted.

Pakistan's military expenditure stood&nbsp;at $11.4 billion in 2018, up 73 per cent since 2009. The world share of Pakistan stood at 0.6 per cent. Iran which is facing US oil sanctions since last year saw an expenditure of $13.2 billion on its military, although in real terms it was a dip of 10 per cent since 2009.&nbsp;

China's military spending rose 83 per cent from 2009 to 2018, the highest in the top-10 list of military spenders. India's military spending in the same period rose 29 per cent. China has spent 1.9 per cent of its gross domestic output (GDP) on military spending since 2013, the report said.

France spent $63.8 billion in 2018 to finish fifth in the list of highest military spenders in the world. Russia was the sixth-largest spender in 2018 with $61.4 billion followed by UK($50 billion), Germany($49.5 billion), Japan($46.6 billion) and South Korea(43.1 billion), the Stockholm-based report said.

US military spending rose for the first time in seven years in 2018. China increased its military expenditure by 5 per cent and India by 3.1 per cent. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia decreased its military spending by 6.5 per cent, France by 1.4 per cent and Russia by 3.5 per cent.

The total military spending of all countries put together was nearly 2.1 per cent of the GDP in 2018, the global military expenditure was at a 30-year high, it said.

Ukraine which has been in a bitter strife with Russia over Crimea since 2014 saw its military expenditure rise 69 per cent from 2009 to 2018. Last year Ukraine spent $4.8 billion on its military.

The biggest percentage change was seen in Romania which increased its military spending by 112 per cent from 2009 to 2018 with an overall expenditure of $4.6 billion last year.

The United States may have topped the list of biggest spender of military equipment with a whopping $649 billion last year, India too figures in the list ranked No-5 with an expenditure of $66.

The United States may have topped the list of biggest spender of military equipment with a whopping $649 billion last year, India too figures in the list ranked No-5 with an expenditure of $66.5 billion, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute(SIPRI). China is ranked second with an expenditure of $250 billion, accounting for 14 per cent of the world share. Interestingly, India accounts accounted for just 3.7 per cent of the world military expenditure last year, same as Saudi Arabia which spent marginally higher than India at $67.6 billion, SIPRI noted. Pakistan's military expenditure stood at $11.4 billion in 2018, up 73 per cent since 2009. The world share of Pakistan stood at 0.6 per cent. Iran which is facing US oil sanctions since last year saw an expenditure of $13.2 billion on its military, although in real terms it was a dip of 10 per cent since 2009. China's military spending rose 83 per cent from 2009 to 2018, the highest in the top-10 list of military spenders. India's military spending in the same period rose 29 per cent. China has spent 1.9 per cent of its gross domestic output (GDP) on military spending since 2013, the report said. France spent $63.8 billion in 2018 to finish fifth in the list of highest military spenders in the world. Russia was the sixth-largest spender in 2018 with $61.4 billion followed by UK($50 billion), Germany($49.5 billion), Japan($46.6 billion) and South Korea(43.1 billion), the Stockholm-based report said. US military spending rose for the first time in seven years in 2018. China increased its military expenditure by 5 per cent and India by 3.1 per cent. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia decreased its military spending by 6.5 per cent, France by 1.4 per cent and Russia by 3.5 per cent. The total military spending of all countries put together was nearly 2.1 per cent of the GDP in 2018, the global military expenditure was at a 30-year high, it said. Ukraine which has been in a bitter strife with Russia over Crimea since 2014 saw its military expenditure rise 69 per cent from 2009 to 2018. Last year Ukraine spent $4.8 billion on its military. The biggest percentage change was seen in Romania which increased its military spending by 112 per cent from 2009 to 2018 with an overall expenditure of $4.6 billion last year.

India's military expenditure in 2018 stood at $66.5 billion, Pakistan at $11.4 billion: SIPRI

Voters at a polling booth in Asansol had refused to vote in the absence of security forces, media reports said.

BJP candidate Babul Supriyo's car vandalised in Asansol

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has filed a counter affidavit in the Supreme Court reiterating his stand and again expressing regret on his remarks on the Rafale verdict. Gandhi said that unfortunate references to the court order and juxtaposition of the political slogan in the same breath ought not to be construed as suggesting that the court had given any finding or conclusion on that issue.

"It is unfortunate that this slogan got intermingled with my comments on and references to the apex court's order dated 15.04.2019. My statement was made in the heat of political campaigning," he said in his affidavit.

The court had on April 23 issued a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-issues-contempt-notice-to-rahul-gandhi-for-attributing-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-to-its-order-212836">criminal contempt notice</a> to Gandhi for his remarks on its verdict in the Rafale case. Gandhi had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief attributing his remark to the court's judgement.

The Congress president had claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers.

BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi had moved court against Rahul Gandhi's remark. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition.

The Supreme Court will hear contempt case against Gandhi along with Rafale review petitions on April 30.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has filed a counter affidavit in the Supreme Court reiterating his stand and again expressing regret on his remarks on the Rafale verdict.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has filed a counter affidavit in the Supreme Court reiterating his stand and again expressing regret on his remarks on the Rafale verdict. Gandhi said that unfortunate references to the court order and juxtaposition of the political slogan in the same breath ought not to be construed as suggesting that the court had given any finding or conclusion on that issue. "It is unfortunate that this slogan got intermingled with my comments on and references to the apex court's order dated 15.04.2019. My statement was made in the heat of political campaigning," he said in his affidavit. The court had on April 23 issued a criminal contempt notice to Gandhi for his remarks on its verdict in the Rafale case. Gandhi had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a thief attributing his remark to the court's judgement. The Congress president had claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers. BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi had moved court against Rahul Gandhi's remark. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition. The Supreme Court will hear contempt case against Gandhi along with Rafale review petitions on April 30.

Rafale verdict: In counter affidavit in Supreme Court, Rahul Gandhi again regrets 'chowkidar chor hai' comment

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-searches-at-3-places-in-kerala-as-part-of-probe-into-isis-module-214123">National Investigation Agency (NIA)</a> on Monday arrested a person in connection with Kasargod IS module case.

The accused, identified as Riyas A alias Riyas Aboobacker, was allegedly conspiring to commit a terrorist attack in Kerala.

The accused will be produced in the NIA court in Kochi on Tuesday, according to an NIA statement.

During interrogation, he revealed that he was in online contact with an absconder in the case Abdul Rashid Abdulla alias Abu Isa and was following his audio clips instigating others to carry out attacks in India, the statement added.

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Kerala: NIA arrested one Riyas Aboobacker in connection with Kasaragod ISIS terror module case. He would be produced in a court in Kochi tomorrow
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The accused also disclosed that he was in contact with Abdul Khayoom alias Abu Khalid, an accused in the Valapattanam ISIS case who is believed to be in Syria.

The accused is also said to have revealed that he had been following speeches and videos of Zahran Hashim from Sri Lanka for more than a year.NIA had earlier received inputs that a group of four persons has been in contact with some of the accused including Abdul Rashid, Ashfaq Majeed, and Abdul Khayoom who had already migrated to Afghanistan and Syria.

After verification, NIA on Sunday carried out searches at three places (two in Kasaragod and one in Palakkad).

Three members have already been interrogated by the NIA for their IS links and plans.

In 2016, 15 persons had disappeared from Kasargod and allegedly migrated to ISIS. The case was registered in the matter with 14 of the accused alleged to have migrated to Afghanistan and one to Syria.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday arrested a person in connection with Kasargod IS module case. The accused, identified as Riyas A alias Riyas Aboobacker, was allegedly conspiring to commit a terrorist attack in Kerala.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday arrested a person in connection with Kasargod IS module case. The accused, identified as Riyas A alias Riyas Aboobacker, was allegedly conspiring to commit a terrorist attack in Kerala. The accused will be produced in the NIA court in Kochi on Tuesday, according to an NIA statement. During interrogation, he revealed that he was in online contact with an absconder in the case Abdul Rashid Abdulla alias Abu Isa and was following his audio clips instigating others to carry out attacks in India, the statement added. Kerala: NIA arrested one Riyas Aboobacker in connection with Kasaragod ISIS terror module case. He would be produced in a court in Kochi tomorrow — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2019 × The accused also disclosed that he was in contact with Abdul Khayoom alias Abu Khalid, an accused in the Valapattanam ISIS case who is believed to be in Syria. The accused is also said to have revealed that he had been following speeches and videos of Zahran Hashim from Sri Lanka for more than a year.NIA had earlier received inputs that a group of four persons has been in contact with some of the accused including Abdul Rashid, Ashfaq Majeed, and Abdul Khayoom who had already migrated to Afghanistan and Syria. After verification, NIA on Sunday carried out searches at three places (two in Kasaragod and one in Palakkad). Three members have already been interrogated by the NIA for their IS links and plans. In 2016, 15 persons had disappeared from Kasargod and allegedly migrated to ISIS. The case was registered in the matter with 14 of the accused alleged to have migrated to Afghanistan and one to Syria.

NIA arrests a person in ISIS Kasargod module case

With the Centre issuing advisory on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-to-intensify-into-very-severe-storm-no-direct-impact-for-tamil-nadu-214525">Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast</a>, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality.

The entire administration is on high alert following the IMD report on the cyclone and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has reviewed the situation arising out of it, officials said. 
The IMD report said the cyclone is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 and thereafter recurve north- northeastward towards Odisha coast.

Cabinet secretary P K Sinha held a video conference with coastal states' chief secretaries and the ministry of home affairs issued two back to back advisories on the impending natural calamity during the day.

As soon as the polling for the fourth and final phase of elections came to an end this evening, Patnaik reviewed the situation and issued a direction to the chief secretary to ensure "zero casualty" in case the cyclone strikes the state.

Patnaik asked the administration to be prepared to evacuate people in case it makes its landfall in the state or there is heavy rainfall in low lying and flood prone areas.

The chief minister also issued a direction to stock adequate food materials in the panchayat level considering the time that the unusual timing of the cyclone.

The coastal district collectors of Ganjam, Khurda, Puri and Kendrapara have meanwhile cancelled the holidays and leaves of government employees as part of the preparedness to face the possible calamity.

"We are preparing a contingency plan to face the situation. We will go for evacuation if required," Puri district collector J P Das said.

In a high-level meeting attended by the top official of Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, NDRF, Odisha Police and all department secretaries, Chief Secretary A P Padhi sought the cooperation of all agencies.

Stating that the IMD has so far not given any definite information regarding possible landfall of the cyclone in the state, Padhi said its forecast shows that the cyclone is likely to pass near the Odisha coast.

"We are leaving no stone unturned and are preparing to face the situation", he said adding the fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea during the period.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Though the IMD has not issued any information on the possible landfall of Cyclone Fani in the state, we are keeping a watch on the information being issued by international agencies such as the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre."

Sethi said all the 880 cyclone centres besides 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, 12 units of National Disaster Response Force and 335 fire units have been put on alert.

Boats are also kept in readiness for rescue operation if required, he said.

"Even if the cyclone did not make a landfall in the state, its impact may be felt in Odisha as heavy rainfall might occur and wind speed reaches up to 60 kmph," Sethi said.

Meanwhile, IMD sources said that the cyclone lay centred about 840 km east-southeast of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and 990 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam (Andhra Pradesh).

It is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and then into a very severe cyclonic storm, it said.&nbsp;

With the Centre issuing advisory on Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality.

With the Centre issuing advisory on Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality. The entire administration is on high alert following the IMD report on the cyclone and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has reviewed the situation arising out of it, officials said. The IMD report said the cyclone is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 and thereafter recurve north- northeastward towards Odisha coast. Cabinet secretary P K Sinha held a video conference with coastal states' chief secretaries and the ministry of home affairs issued two back to back advisories on the impending natural calamity during the day. As soon as the polling for the fourth and final phase of elections came to an end this evening, Patnaik reviewed the situation and issued a direction to the chief secretary to ensure "zero casualty" in case the cyclone strikes the state. Patnaik asked the administration to be prepared to evacuate people in case it makes its landfall in the state or there is heavy rainfall in low lying and flood prone areas. The chief minister also issued a direction to stock adequate food materials in the panchayat level considering the time that the unusual timing of the cyclone. The coastal district collectors of Ganjam, Khurda, Puri and Kendrapara have meanwhile cancelled the holidays and leaves of government employees as part of the preparedness to face the possible calamity. "We are preparing a contingency plan to face the situation. We will go for evacuation if required," Puri district collector J P Das said. In a high-level meeting attended by the top official of Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, NDRF, Odisha Police and all department secretaries, Chief Secretary A P Padhi sought the cooperation of all agencies. Stating that the IMD has so far not given any definite information regarding possible landfall of the cyclone in the state, Padhi said its forecast shows that the cyclone is likely to pass near the Odisha coast. "We are leaving no stone unturned and are preparing to face the situation", he said adding the fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea during the period. Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Though the IMD has not issued any information on the possible landfall of Cyclone Fani in the state, we are keeping a watch on the information being issued by international agencies such as the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre." Sethi said all the 880 cyclone centres besides 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, 12 units of National Disaster Response Force and 335 fire units have been put on alert. Boats are also kept in readiness for rescue operation if required, he said. "Even if the cyclone did not make a landfall in the state, its impact may be felt in Odisha as heavy rainfall might occur and wind speed reaches up to 60 kmph," Sethi said. Meanwhile, IMD sources said that the cyclone lay centred about 840 km east-southeast of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and 990 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam (Andhra Pradesh). It is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and then into a very severe cyclonic storm, it said.

Odisha on high alert as Cyclone Fani progresses

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance.&nbsp;

Cyclone Fani, that has been gaining strength in the south-east Bay of Bengal, is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours, the weather department said on Sunday.&nbsp;

It is likely to bring light to moderate rain across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next two days.

"Spoke to officials regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani. Asked them to take preventive measures and be prepared to provide all possible assistance. Also urged them to work closely with Governments of the affected states. Praying for everyone's safety and wellbeing," Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance.

Expressing concern over the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had spoken to officials to take preventive measure and provide assistance. Cyclone Fani, that has been gaining strength in the south-east Bay of Bengal, is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours, the weather department said on Sunday. It is likely to bring light to moderate rain across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next two days. "Spoke to officials regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Fani. Asked them to take preventive measures and be prepared to provide all possible assistance. Also urged them to work closely with Governments of the affected states. Praying for everyone's safety and wellbeing," Modi tweeted.

Cyclone Fani: PM asks officials to take preventive measures

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