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Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said people have to decide whether they want to choose an honest and principled government committed to the development of all or a corrupt and unprincipled one.

"This time lotus will bloom in Odisha. The BJP will taste victory. I can say with certainty that a maximum number of lotuses will bloom in the state," Modi said at a rally in tribal-dominated Sundargarh.

Similarly, the BJP will again come to power at the Centre as the country needs a strong and decisive government to ensure national security as well as speedy development, the prime minister said.

Hitting out at the BJD government in Odisha, the prime minister said its intentions are not good and the 2019 polls are significant for the future of Odisha as well as the country.

On the 39th foundation day of the BJP, Modi said, "The party was born out of the sweat of its workers, not dynasty or money. It came into being and grew manifold with the sweat and labour of its workers."

Asserting that the BJP all along fought to safeguard democracy, he said lakhs of party workers and leaders were jailed while protesting the Emergency.

"Now the BJP has emerged as the world's largest democratic organisations. It fought to protect democracy during Emergency," he said.

Assembly election in Odisha will be held along with Lok Sabha polls in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said people have to decide whether they want to choose an honest and principled government committed to the development of all or a corrupt and unprincipled one.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said people have to decide whether they want to choose an honest and principled government committed to the development of all or a corrupt and unprincipled one. "This time lotus will bloom in Odisha. The BJP will taste victory. I can say with certainty that a maximum number of lotuses will bloom in the state," Modi said at a rally in tribal-dominated Sundargarh. Similarly, the BJP will again come to power at the Centre as the country needs a strong and decisive government to ensure national security as well as speedy development, the prime minister said. Hitting out at the BJD government in Odisha, the prime minister said its intentions are not good and the 2019 polls are significant for the future of Odisha as well as the country. On the 39th foundation day of the BJP, Modi said, "The party was born out of the sweat of its workers, not dynasty or money. It came into being and grew manifold with the sweat and labour of its workers." Asserting that the BJP all along fought to safeguard democracy, he said lakhs of party workers and leaders were jailed while protesting the Emergency. "Now the BJP has emerged as the world's largest democratic organisations. It fought to protect democracy during Emergency," he said. Assembly election in Odisha will be held along with Lok Sabha polls in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29.

This time lotus will bloom in Odisha: Modi at a rally in Sundargarh

Veteran actor and former BJP leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shatrughan-sinha-to-join-congress-will-be-star-leader-and-star-campaigner-shakti-singh-gohil-206255">Shatrughan Sinha officially joined Congress</a> on Saturday.

In a press conference held by Congress general secretary KC Venugopal and Randeep Surjewala, the former Union minister was inducted into the Congress.&nbsp;Venugopal said Sinha was the "best politician who was earlier with the wrong party".

Randeep Surjewala and&nbsp;AICC in-charge for party's Bihar unit Shaktisinh Gohil also welcomed Sinha into the party.

The development came after Shatrughan Sinha, a vocal critic of the BJP leadership was denied the party ticket from&nbsp;Patna Sahib&nbsp;parliamentary constituency in Bihar.

He is currently the Member of Parliament (MP) from the seat. The BJP has fielded Union minister Ravi Shanker Prasad from the prestigious Bihar constituency.

The actor-turned-politician had met Congress&nbsp;president Rahul Gandhi on March 27th in Delhi and had announced his new association following the meeting.

Shatrughan Sinha had a long association with the BJP. He was the shipping and health and family welfare minister during former prime minister Vajpayee's term.

He won the Patna Sahib Lok Sabha seat in 2009 and then again during the BJP wave under Narendra Modi in 2014.

Describing himself a great admirer of the Nehru-Gandhi family, he had also said that he would contest the Lok Sabha polls from the Patna Sahib seat.&nbsp;

"In every situation, the location will be the same, Patna," he had said.

Bihar will vote in all the seven phases of the general election from April 11 to May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Veteran actor and former BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha officially joined Congress on Saturday. In a press conference held by Congress general secretary KC Venugopal and Randeep Surjewala, the former Union minister was inducted into the Congress.

Veteran actor and former BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha officially joined Congress on Saturday. In a press conference held by Congress general secretary KC Venugopal and Randeep Surjewala, the former Union minister was inducted into the Congress. Venugopal said Sinha was the "best politician who was earlier with the wrong party". Randeep Surjewala and AICC in-charge for party's Bihar unit Shaktisinh Gohil also welcomed Sinha into the party. The development came after Shatrughan Sinha, a vocal critic of the BJP leadership was denied the party ticket from Patna Sahib parliamentary constituency in Bihar. He is currently the Member of Parliament (MP) from the seat. The BJP has fielded Union minister Ravi Shanker Prasad from the prestigious Bihar constituency. The actor-turned-politician had met Congress president Rahul Gandhi on March 27th in Delhi and had announced his new association following the meeting. Shatrughan Sinha had a long association with the BJP. He was the shipping and health and family welfare minister during former prime minister Vajpayee's term. He won the Patna Sahib Lok Sabha seat in 2009 and then again during the BJP wave under Narendra Modi in 2014. Describing himself a great admirer of the Nehru-Gandhi family, he had also said that he would contest the Lok Sabha polls from the Patna Sahib seat. "In every situation, the location will be the same, Patna," he had said. Bihar will vote in all the seven phases of the general election from April 11 to May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Former BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha joins Congress

Opposition parties in West Bengal Friday welcomed the move of the Election Commission to remove four IPS officers, including police commissioners of Kolkata and Bidannagar, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said this would gain the confidence of the voters.&nbsp;

"The police establishment in West Bengal has become a B-team of the Trinamool Congress government. I welcome the move of the ECI ," he told PTI when contacted.

Sinha, who is the candidate for the North Kolkata constituency, claimed free and fair elections were impossible under these IPS officers who were removed Friday night.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) removed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and replaced him with Rajesh Kumar. It also removed Bidhan Nagar police chief Gyanwnat Singh and transferred the Birbhum SP and Dimaond Harbour SP.

"Free and fair elections could not have happened if these IPS officers were there. I believe the ECI will make some other changes keeping in mind the polls," he said.

Congress' Pradip Bhattacharya alleged that there were IPS officers who were working for the Trinamool Congress government and such move was always a welcome one.

"We had such complaints last time also. This year we have also seen that there are several IPS and IAS officers who are blatantly working for the ruling party. I have heard that the ECI has removed a few officers. But I do not understand why it has not taken any step against the officers in Malda and Raiganj. I am hopeful that the ECI will soon decide on this as well," he said.

CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty described the move as a positive.

"During the chief minister's dharna we have seen how these officers showed they were working for the TMC government. These officers have forgotten to show respect to the uniform. I think this was a good move of the ECI otherwise free and fair elections were not possible," he said.

The announcement of the officers' removal came days after the BJP leaders had alleged that free and fair elections were not possible under them.&nbsp;

Rajesh Kumar ADG Pollution Control Board was made the new Kolkata top cop, while Natarajan Ramesh Babu, ADG and IGP Operations was named the Bidhannagar Police Commissioner, an ECI notification about the decisions, said.

It also named Avannu Ravindranath DC (airport division) of Bidhannaga as the new SP of Birbhum and announced Srihari Pandey DC KAP, third battalion as the SP of Diamond Harbour.&nbsp;

Opposition parties in West Bengal Friday welcomed the move of the Election Commission to remove four IPS officers, including police commissioners of Kolkata and Bidannagar, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Opposition parties in West Bengal Friday welcomed the move of the Election Commission to remove four IPS officers, including police commissioners of Kolkata and Bidannagar, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said this would gain the confidence of the voters. "The police establishment in West Bengal has become a B-team of the Trinamool Congress government. I welcome the move of the ECI ," he told PTI when contacted. Sinha, who is the candidate for the North Kolkata constituency, claimed free and fair elections were impossible under these IPS officers who were removed Friday night. The Election Commission of India (ECI) removed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and replaced him with Rajesh Kumar. It also removed Bidhan Nagar police chief Gyanwnat Singh and transferred the Birbhum SP and Dimaond Harbour SP. "Free and fair elections could not have happened if these IPS officers were there. I believe the ECI will make some other changes keeping in mind the polls," he said. Congress' Pradip Bhattacharya alleged that there were IPS officers who were working for the Trinamool Congress government and such move was always a welcome one. "We had such complaints last time also. This year we have also seen that there are several IPS and IAS officers who are blatantly working for the ruling party. I have heard that the ECI has removed a few officers. But I do not understand why it has not taken any step against the officers in Malda and Raiganj. I am hopeful that the ECI will soon decide on this as well," he said. CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty described the move as a positive. "During the chief minister's dharna we have seen how these officers showed they were working for the TMC government. These officers have forgotten to show respect to the uniform. I think this was a good move of the ECI otherwise free and fair elections were not possible," he said. The announcement of the officers' removal came days after the BJP leaders had alleged that free and fair elections were not possible under them. Rajesh Kumar ADG Pollution Control Board was made the new Kolkata top cop, while Natarajan Ramesh Babu, ADG and IGP Operations was named the Bidhannagar Police Commissioner, an ECI notification about the decisions, said. It also named Avannu Ravindranath DC (airport division) of Bidhannaga as the new SP of Birbhum and announced Srihari Pandey DC KAP, third battalion as the SP of Diamond Harbour.

Opposition parties in West Bengal welcome Election Commission's move to remove 4 IPS officers

The Election Commission (EC) said on Thursday that as many as 10 lakh voters were added to the electoral rolls across the country last week, including four lakh first timers.

It also said that "all preparations" are being made for a smooth conduct of the first and second phases of the Lok Sabha polls, in which over 2,900 candidates are in the fray.

"We have added 10 lakh voters to the list, including four lakh new voters who are in the age group of 18-19," Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Saxena told reporters in New Delhi.

When the EC announced the polls on March 10, it had said that there are a total of about 90 crore voters in the country.

He added that preparations for conducting polls in the first two phases on April 11 and 18 are in full swing and all facilities would be provided to all categories of voters.

For the first phase, he said, there are a total of 1,280 candidates in the fray, 1,188 men and 92 women, while for the second phase (April 18), there are 1,674 candidates, 1,549 male and 125 female.

The number of candidates trying their luck in these two phases is 2,954.

Saxena said there were a total of 61 lakh voters in the "persons with disabilities" category.

He added that the 'cVigil' app has been a "big hit" and the commission has received 40,116 complaints through it till now.

The cVIGIL mobile application was launched by the Election Commission last year and complaints on violations of poll code can be uploaded on it.

Almost 99 per cent or 39,900 complaints have been disposed of and 68 per cent of these were found to be correct, Saxena said.

The maximum complaints on this app have come from Kerala, he added.

The Election Commission (EC) said on Thursday that as many as 10 lakh voters were added to the electoral rolls across the country last week, including four lakh first timers.

The Election Commission (EC) said on Thursday that as many as 10 lakh voters were added to the electoral rolls across the country last week, including four lakh first timers. It also said that "all preparations" are being made for a smooth conduct of the first and second phases of the Lok Sabha polls, in which over 2,900 candidates are in the fray. "We have added 10 lakh voters to the list, including four lakh new voters who are in the age group of 18-19," Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Saxena told reporters in New Delhi. When the EC announced the polls on March 10, it had said that there are a total of about 90 crore voters in the country. He added that preparations for conducting polls in the first two phases on April 11 and 18 are in full swing and all facilities would be provided to all categories of voters. For the first phase, he said, there are a total of 1,280 candidates in the fray, 1,188 men and 92 women, while for the second phase (April 18), there are 1,674 candidates, 1,549 male and 125 female. The number of candidates trying their luck in these two phases is 2,954. Saxena said there were a total of 61 lakh voters in the "persons with disabilities" category. He added that the 'cVigil' app has been a "big hit" and the commission has received 40,116 complaints through it till now. The cVIGIL mobile application was launched by the Election Commission last year and complaints on violations of poll code can be uploaded on it. Almost 99 per cent or 39,900 complaints have been disposed of and 68 per cent of these were found to be correct, Saxena said. The maximum complaints on this app have come from Kerala, he added.

10 lakh voters added last week, including 4 lakh first timers: Election Commission

The Madras High Court has said it would vacate the stay on a defamation case against DMK president M K Stalin over his remarks linking Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami to the Kodanad estate heist case after the government complained he was repeating the charge.

Justice G K Ilanthiraiyan made the oral observation Thursday on two petitions by city Public Prosecutor (PP) A Natarajan seeking the court to restrain the DMK leader from making any speech regarding the matter during the campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections, particularly at a public meeting to be held on Sunday, and vacate the interim stay on the defamation case.

The judge said the petitioner can record the remarks, if any made by Stalin at the meeting and produce it before the court on April 8.

The PP submitted that Stalin in his campaign speeches was repeatedly linking Palaniswami to the Kodanad case despite facing prosecution for defamation for same remarks earlier.

The judge told the counsel for Stalin that the grievance of the PP was that the DMK leader was already facing prosecution for defamation. But again and again he was making the same allegations and it would amount to interfering with the administration of justice.

The PP has filed two petitions. One to restrain Stalin from making any speech pertaining to Kodanadu case and another to vacate the interim stay granted by the court on the defamation proceedings.

"We will vacate the stay. You face the trial," the judge added.

Stalin's counsel P Kumaresan opposed the petition, saying the PP had already filed a petition seeking similar relief and it had been dismissed by a division bench of the high court on April 1.

He sought time to file a counter affidavit to the present petition.

Earlier, the PP submitted that Sayyan and Manoj, two key accused in the Kodanadu heist-cum watchman murder case had hatched a conspiracy to implicate the chief minister and their allegations against Palaniswami were released in a documentary by a Delhi-based journalist recently.

Subsequently, the bail granted to Sayyan and Manoj was cancelled by the trial court after the government submitted that they were intimidating witnesses. The trial court order had been confirmed by the high court.

Stalin in his election campaign was continuously making speeches linking the chief minister with the case, claiming that it was not his statement but that of the journalist, the PP submitted.

When the matter was sub-judice, Stalin cannot make such statements, he contended.

A total of 10 people had been arrested in connection with the April 23, 2017 robbery attempt at the Kodanad estate in Nilgiris district, which was used by late chief minister J Jayalalithaa. A guard was killed by a gang in the incident.

The Madras High Court has said it would vacate the stay on a defamation case against DMK president M K Stalin over his remarks linking Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami to the Kodanad estate heist case after the government complained he was repeating the charge.

The Madras High Court has said it would vacate the stay on a defamation case against DMK president M K Stalin over his remarks linking Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami to the Kodanad estate heist case after the government complained he was repeating the charge. Justice G K Ilanthiraiyan made the oral observation Thursday on two petitions by city Public Prosecutor (PP) A Natarajan seeking the court to restrain the DMK leader from making any speech regarding the matter during the campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections, particularly at a public meeting to be held on Sunday, and vacate the interim stay on the defamation case. The judge said the petitioner can record the remarks, if any made by Stalin at the meeting and produce it before the court on April 8. The PP submitted that Stalin in his campaign speeches was repeatedly linking Palaniswami to the Kodanad case despite facing prosecution for defamation for same remarks earlier. The judge told the counsel for Stalin that the grievance of the PP was that the DMK leader was already facing prosecution for defamation. But again and again he was making the same allegations and it would amount to interfering with the administration of justice. The PP has filed two petitions. One to restrain Stalin from making any speech pertaining to Kodanadu case and another to vacate the interim stay granted by the court on the defamation proceedings. "We will vacate the stay. You face the trial," the judge added. Stalin's counsel P Kumaresan opposed the petition, saying the PP had already filed a petition seeking similar relief and it had been dismissed by a division bench of the high court on April 1. He sought time to file a counter affidavit to the present petition. Earlier, the PP submitted that Sayyan and Manoj, two key accused in the Kodanadu heist-cum watchman murder case had hatched a conspiracy to implicate the chief minister and their allegations against Palaniswami were released in a documentary by a Delhi-based journalist recently. Subsequently, the bail granted to Sayyan and Manoj was cancelled by the trial court after the government submitted that they were intimidating witnesses. The trial court order had been confirmed by the high court. Stalin in his election campaign was continuously making speeches linking the chief minister with the case, claiming that it was not his statement but that of the journalist, the PP submitted. When the matter was sub-judice, Stalin cannot make such statements, he contended. A total of 10 people had been arrested in connection with the April 23, 2017 robbery attempt at the Kodanad estate in Nilgiris district, which was used by late chief minister J Jayalalithaa. A guard was killed by a gang in the incident.

Plea to restrain Stalin from linking Tamil Nadu chief minister to Kodanad case

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that Narendra Modi-led government has ensured peace and development in the northeast, which was roiled by militant activities even five years ago.

The BJP is committed to take action against cross-border terrorism and to root out insurgency in the northeast, he said, insisting that political stability returned to Arunachal after the saffron party came to power.

Modi had instructed his ministers to visit the northeast states every fortnight and resolve the problems of the people in the region, Shah said.

"Five years ago, the northeast was disturbed, there was hardly any development. The BJP has brought peace to the region and paved way for its development," he claimed.

"All parts of the northeast now have air and rail connectivity. In Arunachal alone, the govt has sanctioned Rs 50,000 crore for the development of roads," Shah stated.

Noting that Morarji Desai was the last prime minister who attended meetings of the Northeastern Council, Shah said 40 years later, it was Modi again who attended the convention in Shillong.

From Arunachal Pradesh to Kanyakumari, Assam to Gujarat, the BJP will form government everywhere, the BJP chief said, insisting that the winning streak of the party has started in this state.

"It is for the first time that BJP is fighting on all assembly seats in Arunachal Pradesh. Our winning streak started in this region when three MLAs of our party were elected uncontested," he said.

Three party candidates have been elected unopposed in Arunachal Pradesh from Aalo east, Yachuli and Dirang assembly constituencies.

Election to Assembly seats and Lok Sabha constituencies will be held simultaneously in Arunachal Pradesh on April 11.

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that Narendra Modi-led government has ensured peace and development in the northeast, which was roiled by militant activities even five years ago.

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that Narendra Modi-led government has ensured peace and development in the northeast, which was roiled by militant activities even five years ago. The BJP is committed to take action against cross-border terrorism and to root out insurgency in the northeast, he said, insisting that political stability returned to Arunachal after the saffron party came to power. Modi had instructed his ministers to visit the northeast states every fortnight and resolve the problems of the people in the region, Shah said. "Five years ago, the northeast was disturbed, there was hardly any development. The BJP has brought peace to the region and paved way for its development," he claimed. "All parts of the northeast now have air and rail connectivity. In Arunachal alone, the govt has sanctioned Rs 50,000 crore for the development of roads," Shah stated. Noting that Morarji Desai was the last prime minister who attended meetings of the Northeastern Council, Shah said 40 years later, it was Modi again who attended the convention in Shillong. From Arunachal Pradesh to Kanyakumari, Assam to Gujarat, the BJP will form government everywhere, the BJP chief said, insisting that the winning streak of the party has started in this state. "It is for the first time that BJP is fighting on all assembly seats in Arunachal Pradesh. Our winning streak started in this region when three MLAs of our party were elected uncontested," he said. Three party candidates have been elected unopposed in Arunachal Pradesh from Aalo east, Yachuli and Dirang assembly constituencies. Election to Assembly seats and Lok Sabha constituencies will be held simultaneously in Arunachal Pradesh on April 11.

BJP brought peace and development to northeast: Amit Shah

Enjoying loud music and partying is a pleasure for many, but for those in the neighbourhood, it may not be as enjoyable. If in case these neighbours are endangered species of wildlife, the effects of the blaring speakers could even lead to their death!&nbsp;

The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust(MCBT) was established by Romulus and Zhai Whitaker in 1976 with the specific goal of securing breeding populations of the three species of Indian crocodile. Today Croc Bank is home to 17 species of crocodilians. It is also one of the largest reptile zoos in the world, spread over eight and a half acres of land and is home to over 2500 reptiles.

The MCBT lies on the picturesque East Coast Road and is located about 40 kms away from Chennai city. Since, mid-2018 the Croc Bank has had a new neighbour, Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort and Spa. The Crocodile bank trust claims that the resort is “built right against our wall”.

In a Facebook post shared yesterday, Padma Shri Romulus Whitaker, the founder of the Crocodile Bank shared details regarding the death of a Cuban Crocodile (Critically Endangered species in the World Conservation Union (IUCN) listing) on the night of 30th March, due to the stress caused by the blaring music played on the hotels lawns, despite many requests to lower the volume. It also mentions that “the Cuban crocodile enclosure is around 50 ft from the wall which divides the hotel from us and the powerful hi-fidelity speakers had been placed right next to it. The animal had been healthy, had fed recently, and had no injuries or history of sickness. This is a critical breeding group of one of the most endangered animals in the world: 1 male and 4 (now 3) females. Extremely lucky that it wasn’t the male who succumbed. We will now consider moving the group to another location, an expensive and difficult undertaking.”

Going by the earlier Facebook posts of the MCBT, problems began in February 2019, when the Crocodile Bank expressed anguish over what they called, “loud music with booming bass levels that triggers aberrant behaviour among the animals”. The statement also adds, “the decibel levels and timings consistently exceed the legal limits. On one particular day, our decibel readings (taken at the Croc Bank) ranged from 85 to 140. The legal daytime decibel level is 55 and post-6 pm, 45 (Pollution Prevention Act 2002). It was like a combo of war zone and earthquake. What are the long-term effects going to be on the zoo animals? The sound is a weapon, and I’m guessing that this auditory torture may well change their breeding and behaviour patterns.”

MCBT had also issued a clarification in February stating that “There was a meeting at the Crocodile Bank today which was attended by our trustees and the Sheraton Grand Hotel team, which included management and two sound technicians. As a starting point, they have assured us that they will comply with the legal regulations in terms of acceptable decibel limits and permitted timings. Additionally, they will take measures to control vibrations. Sheraton will also be appointing a sound consultant who will submit a report in 10 days recommending additional mitigatory methods which the hotel can take.”

However, the death of the endangered Cuban crocodile on March 30th has come as a shocker.

Hotel’s general manager Shibil Malik said, “We at Sheraton Grand Chennai are equally saddened and disturbed to hear of this unfortunate incident. We have continuously worked with the crocodile bank management and taken all possible measures to maintain the safety of the wildlife in the neighbourhood. Hence we do believe that the allegations are unfounded. The death could have been due to a number of natural or unnatural causes. Whilst as a company we are extremely sensitive to animal welfare we do deny these false accusations. We remain committed towards the environment and wildlife and to working with the crocodile bank to ensure the safety of the wildlife so we can all coexist.”

Enjoying loud music and partying is a pleasure for many, but for those in the neighbourhood, it may not be as enjoyable. If in case these neighbours are endangered species of wildlife, the effects of the blaring speakers could even lead to their death!

Enjoying loud music and partying is a pleasure for many, but for those in the neighbourhood, it may not be as enjoyable. If in case these neighbours are endangered species of wildlife, the effects of the blaring speakers could even lead to their death! The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust(MCBT) was established by Romulus and Zhai Whitaker in 1976 with the specific goal of securing breeding populations of the three species of Indian crocodile. Today Croc Bank is home to 17 species of crocodilians. It is also one of the largest reptile zoos in the world, spread over eight and a half acres of land and is home to over 2500 reptiles. The MCBT lies on the picturesque East Coast Road and is located about 40 kms away from Chennai city. Since, mid-2018 the Croc Bank has had a new neighbour, Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort and Spa. The Crocodile bank trust claims that the resort is “built right against our wall”. In a Facebook post shared yesterday, Padma Shri Romulus Whitaker, the founder of the Crocodile Bank shared details regarding the death of a Cuban Crocodile (Critically Endangered species in the World Conservation Union (IUCN) listing) on the night of 30th March, due to the stress caused by the blaring music played on the hotels lawns, despite many requests to lower the volume. It also mentions that “the Cuban crocodile enclosure is around 50 ft from the wall which divides the hotel from us and the powerful hi-fidelity speakers had been placed right next to it. The animal had been healthy, had fed recently, and had no injuries or history of sickness. This is a critical breeding group of one of the most endangered animals in the world: 1 male and 4 (now 3) females. Extremely lucky that it wasn’t the male who succumbed. We will now consider moving the group to another location, an expensive and difficult undertaking.” Going by the earlier Facebook posts of the MCBT, problems began in February 2019, when the Crocodile Bank expressed anguish over what they called, “loud music with booming bass levels that triggers aberrant behaviour among the animals”. The statement also adds, “the decibel levels and timings consistently exceed the legal limits. On one particular day, our decibel readings (taken at the Croc Bank) ranged from 85 to 140. The legal daytime decibel level is 55 and post-6 pm, 45 (Pollution Prevention Act 2002). It was like a combo of war zone and earthquake. What are the long-term effects going to be on the zoo animals? The sound is a weapon, and I’m guessing that this auditory torture may well change their breeding and behaviour patterns.” MCBT had also issued a clarification in February stating that “There was a meeting at the Crocodile Bank today which was attended by our trustees and the Sheraton Grand Hotel team, which included management and two sound technicians. As a starting point, they have assured us that they will comply with the legal regulations in terms of acceptable decibel limits and permitted timings. Additionally, they will take measures to control vibrations. Sheraton will also be appointing a sound consultant who will submit a report in 10 days recommending additional mitigatory methods which the hotel can take.” However, the death of the endangered Cuban crocodile on March 30th has come as a shocker. Hotel’s general manager Shibil Malik said, “We at Sheraton Grand Chennai are equally saddened and disturbed to hear of this unfortunate incident. We have continuously worked with the crocodile bank management and taken all possible measures to maintain the safety of the wildlife in the neighbourhood. Hence we do believe that the allegations are unfounded. The death could have been due to a number of natural or unnatural causes. Whilst as a company we are extremely sensitive to animal welfare we do deny these false accusations. We remain committed towards the environment and wildlife and to working with the crocodile bank to ensure the safety of the wildlife so we can all coexist.”

Did blaring music at Chennai resort cause death of rare crocodile?

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, she said the 'Chaiwallah' who enacted a "new drama" of 'Chowkidar' would undoubtedly be rejected by the people in the coming elections.

Addressing an election meeting in Tirupati on Thursday, Mayawati lashed out at the Congress, saying the party, which ruled the country for 70 years, had miserably failed to ensure social justice and empowerment of the weaker sections of the society.

As a result, its rule had been rejected in many states and at the Centre as well, she said.

The BSP chief, who spoke in Hindi, claimed that the BJP was also following in the Congress' footsteps by ignoring the welfare of the weaker sections.

She alleged that aggressive approaches of the BJP and the RSS have created more problems for the weaker sections and minorities in the country.

The BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha and 21 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh as part of the electoral alliance with the Jana Sena led by Pawan Kalyan.

Kalyan, who was also present, said a special governing body headed by Andhra Pradesh chief minister would be constituted in the place of existing board of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) that governs the Venkateswara temple if his party was voted to power.

"There is a dire need to protect the safety, serenity and sanctity of the ancient hill shrine with a body to be headed by none other than the chief minister of the state itself," the actor-turned-politician said.

He hit out at the YSR Congress Party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and alleged that it was practising unruly politics.

Kalyan appealed to the people to vote for the nominees of the Jana Sena-BSP-left parties in the coming Lok Sabha and state assembly elections for better governance and to uplift the poor and downtrodden.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati attacked the BJP and the Opposition Congress on Thursday, alleging that both the parties failed to address the problems of the weaker sections. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, she said the 'Chaiwallah' who enacted a "new drama" of 'Chowkidar' would undoubtedly be rejected by the people in the coming elections. Addressing an election meeting in Tirupati on Thursday, Mayawati lashed out at the Congress, saying the party, which ruled the country for 70 years, had miserably failed to ensure social justice and empowerment of the weaker sections of the society. As a result, its rule had been rejected in many states and at the Centre as well, she said. The BSP chief, who spoke in Hindi, claimed that the BJP was also following in the Congress' footsteps by ignoring the welfare of the weaker sections. She alleged that aggressive approaches of the BJP and the RSS have created more problems for the weaker sections and minorities in the country. The BSP is contesting three Lok Sabha and 21 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh as part of the electoral alliance with the Jana Sena led by Pawan Kalyan. Kalyan, who was also present, said a special governing body headed by Andhra Pradesh chief minister would be constituted in the place of existing board of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) that governs the Venkateswara temple if his party was voted to power. "There is a dire need to protect the safety, serenity and sanctity of the ancient hill shrine with a body to be headed by none other than the chief minister of the state itself," the actor-turned-politician said. He hit out at the YSR Congress Party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and alleged that it was practising unruly politics. Kalyan appealed to the people to vote for the nominees of the Jana Sena-BSP-left parties in the coming Lok Sabha and state assembly elections for better governance and to uplift the poor and downtrodden.

Mayawati slams Congress, BJP in Tirupati rally

The Delhi government on Friday told Patiala House Court that Delhi police had filed charge sheet in the 2016 JNU sedition case in a ''secretive'' and ''hasty manner'' and it would take a month to decide whether to grant sanction to prosecute former JNU student's union president Kanhaiya Kumar in the case.&nbsp;

It made the submission to Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Deepak Sherawat.&nbsp;

The AAP government accused the police of filing the charge sheet secretly and in a hasty manner without obtaining the required approval from the appropriate authority.&nbsp;

The court had earlier directed the state government to file a "proper reply", citing a definite time-frame.

DCP of Special Cell of Delhi Police, Pramod Kushwaha, had told the court that the agency has already sent a request to the Delhi government seeking sanction and added sanction was an administrative action and the charge sheet can be filed without that.

On January 14, police had filed a charge sheet in the court against Kumar and others, saying he was leading a procession and supported seditious slogans raised in the JNU campus during an event on February 9, 2016.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The Delhi government on Friday told Patiala House Court that Delhi police had filed charge sheet in the 2016 JNU sedition case in a ''secretive'' and ''hasty manner'' and it would take a month to decide whether to grant sanction to prosecute former JNU student's union president Kanhaiya Kumar in the case.

The Delhi government on Friday told Patiala House Court that Delhi police had filed charge sheet in the 2016 JNU sedition case in a ''secretive'' and ''hasty manner'' and it would take a month to decide whether to grant sanction to prosecute former JNU student's union president Kanhaiya Kumar in the case. It made the submission to Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Deepak Sherawat. The AAP government accused the police of filing the charge sheet secretly and in a hasty manner without obtaining the required approval from the appropriate authority. The court had earlier directed the state government to file a "proper reply", citing a definite time-frame. DCP of Special Cell of Delhi Police, Pramod Kushwaha, had told the court that the agency has already sent a request to the Delhi government seeking sanction and added sanction was an administrative action and the charge sheet can be filed without that. On January 14, police had filed a charge sheet in the court against Kumar and others, saying he was leading a procession and supported seditious slogans raised in the JNU campus during an event on February 9, 2016. (With inputs from PTI)

JNU sedition case: Police filed charge sheet 'secretly', in 'hasty manner', Delhi govt tells court

As Telangana heads for Lok Sabha elections on April 11, one stark feature that emerges is how much the political stock of the Congress and the TDP has taken a beating.&nbsp;

Once dominant parties in the state, the Congress and the TDP have seen their political fortunes on the downswing in Telangana with the latter not even fielding candidates this time.

The Congress is facing a crisis of sorts in Telangana with as many as 10 of its MLAs among the total 19 announcing their decision to leave the party and join the ruling TRS during the past one month.

Several other key leaders, including former MLAs, have also joined the TRS.

The Congress and the TDP had formed an alliance for the assembly elections held in December but ended up with 19 and two seats respectively in the 119-member house. The TRS bagged 88 seats. 
While the TDP chose not to field candidates in the Lok Sabha polls in Telangana, the Congress is going it alone.

Senior Congress leader and former MLA Marri Shashidhar Reddy said he is not worried about the party's future in Telangana.

He said the Congress did well in the panchayat elections and hoped that it would fare better in the Lok Sabha polls.

"The Congress high command will definitely take stock of the situation and take necessary steps to strengthen the party," he told.

On Congress MLAs leaving the party, Reddy, a former vice-chairman of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said there is a need for a re-look at the anti-defection law.

There are a lot of loose ends in the law as the presiding officers of legislatures acted in a way that suited the ruling party, he said.&nbsp;

The TDP said it needs to strengthen itself organisationally as it has cadres and well-wishers in the state.

According to TDP politburo member Ravula Chandrasekhar Reddy, the party has strategically chosen not to contest the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana.&nbsp;

A poor performance in the Lok Sabha polls would have an adverse impact on the party for the coming local body polls, he said.

"We are confident that our party would win in Andhra Pradesh and our say would increase in Delhi. The BJP would lose at the national level. We feel we can strengthen ourselves in Telangana on that basis," he said.

He said defections hurt his party in a big way, adding 13 of 15 TDP MLAs had left the party during 2014 to 2018.&nbsp;

He termed the anti-defection law as toothless in its present form and suggested that a member should cease to be so, the moment he resigns from the party on whose ticket he is elected.

TDP had an alliance with the BJP for the 2014 elections and the latter unilaterally decided to end the alliance, Ravula Reddy said.

Though TDP had contested only 13 seats in 2018 (in alliance with Congress), it won two seats and stood second in almost all the constituencies, he said.

He also claimed there was a massive negative campaign against the TDP during the statehood agitation.&nbsp;

"The (TDP) leaders who are supposed to condemn such campaign and send the correct version to people have switched parties," he said.

The TRS had systematically targeted the TDP (that it is pro-Andhra and anti-Telangana), he claimed.

Political analyst Telakapalli Ravi claimed the Congress would not go down like the TDP in Telangana though it has suffered setbacks.

The internal differences among party leaders and lack of proper direction from the high command are among the reasons for the poor show of Congress, he said.

The party had made strategic mistakes like playing second fiddle to TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao during separate Telangana agitation and failing to take him along with it (with the formation of separate state), Ravi said.

"The survival also depends on how it would do at the national level. Still, it will not go down like TDP," he argued.

Like in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal where YSR Congress and Trinamool were formed by party leaders, Congress in Telangana does not face such a threat, he said.

Talking about the TDP, he said regional parties in the country are more or less confined to a single state. The TDP is in power in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.

Though the TDP won 15 seats in the assembly polls in 2014, it could not build on it, he said. The party lost grip with the alleged cash-for-vote scandal which also led to the exit of its chief N Chandrababu Naidu (from Telangana), he claimed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As Telangana heads for Lok Sabha elections on April 11, one stark feature that emerges is how much the political stock of the Congress and the TDP has taken a beating.

As Telangana heads for Lok Sabha elections on April 11, one stark feature that emerges is how much the political stock of the Congress and the TDP has taken a beating. Once dominant parties in the state, the Congress and the TDP have seen their political fortunes on the downswing in Telangana with the latter not even fielding candidates this time. The Congress is facing a crisis of sorts in Telangana with as many as 10 of its MLAs among the total 19 announcing their decision to leave the party and join the ruling TRS during the past one month. Several other key leaders, including former MLAs, have also joined the TRS. The Congress and the TDP had formed an alliance for the assembly elections held in December but ended up with 19 and two seats respectively in the 119-member house. The TRS bagged 88 seats. While the TDP chose not to field candidates in the Lok Sabha polls in Telangana, the Congress is going it alone. Senior Congress leader and former MLA Marri Shashidhar Reddy said he is not worried about the party's future in Telangana. He said the Congress did well in the panchayat elections and hoped that it would fare better in the Lok Sabha polls. "The Congress high command will definitely take stock of the situation and take necessary steps to strengthen the party," he told. On Congress MLAs leaving the party, Reddy, a former vice-chairman of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said there is a need for a re-look at the anti-defection law. There are a lot of loose ends in the law as the presiding officers of legislatures acted in a way that suited the ruling party, he said. The TDP said it needs to strengthen itself organisationally as it has cadres and well-wishers in the state. According to TDP politburo member Ravula Chandrasekhar Reddy, the party has strategically chosen not to contest the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana. A poor performance in the Lok Sabha polls would have an adverse impact on the party for the coming local body polls, he said. "We are confident that our party would win in Andhra Pradesh and our say would increase in Delhi. The BJP would lose at the national level. We feel we can strengthen ourselves in Telangana on that basis," he said. He said defections hurt his party in a big way, adding 13 of 15 TDP MLAs had left the party during 2014 to 2018. He termed the anti-defection law as toothless in its present form and suggested that a member should cease to be so, the moment he resigns from the party on whose ticket he is elected. TDP had an alliance with the BJP for the 2014 elections and the latter unilaterally decided to end the alliance, Ravula Reddy said. Though TDP had contested only 13 seats in 2018 (in alliance with Congress), it won two seats and stood second in almost all the constituencies, he said. He also claimed there was a massive negative campaign against the TDP during the statehood agitation. "The (TDP) leaders who are supposed to condemn such campaign and send the correct version to people have switched parties," he said. The TRS had systematically targeted the TDP (that it is pro-Andhra and anti-Telangana), he claimed. Political analyst Telakapalli Ravi claimed the Congress would not go down like the TDP in Telangana though it has suffered setbacks. The internal differences among party leaders and lack of proper direction from the high command are among the reasons for the poor show of Congress, he said. The party had made strategic mistakes like playing second fiddle to TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao during separate Telangana agitation and failing to take him along with it (with the formation of separate state), Ravi said. "The survival also depends on how it would do at the national level. Still, it will not go down like TDP," he argued. Like in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal where YSR Congress and Trinamool were formed by party leaders, Congress in Telangana does not face such a threat, he said. Talking about the TDP, he said regional parties in the country are more or less confined to a single state. The TDP is in power in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. Though the TDP won 15 seats in the assembly polls in 2014, it could not build on it, he said. The party lost grip with the alleged cash-for-vote scandal which also led to the exit of its chief N Chandrababu Naidu (from Telangana), he claimed.

Congress would not go down like the TDP in Telangana: Political analyst

Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear the bail plea of RJD chief and former Bihar chief minister Laly Prasad Yadav on April 10 in three cases related to fodder scam.

A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the CBI to file the reply by April 9 and said Yadav's bail plea will be taken up for hearing next Wednesday.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo, sought urgent listing of the bail plea saying notice has been issued in the matter.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the agency needs to file reply in the matter.

"You (CBI) file the reply by April 9. We will take up the matter (Yadav's bail plea) on April 10, the bench said.

Prasad, currently lodged in the Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi, has challenged the January 10 verdict of the Jharkhand High Court dismissing his bail plea.

The three cases in which Prasad has been convicted are related to the over-Rs 900-crore fodder scam, which pertains to fraudulent withdrawal of money from the treasuries in the Animal Husbandry department in the early 1990s, when Jharkhand was part of Bihar.

The RJD was in power in Bihar with Prasad as the chief minister when the scam had allegedly taken place.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear the bail plea of RJD chief and former Bihar chief minister Laly Prasad Yadav on April 10 in three cases related to fodder scam.

Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear the bail plea of RJD chief and former Bihar chief minister Laly Prasad Yadav on April 10 in three cases related to fodder scam. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the CBI to file the reply by April 9 and said Yadav's bail plea will be taken up for hearing next Wednesday. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo, sought urgent listing of the bail plea saying notice has been issued in the matter. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the agency needs to file reply in the matter. "You (CBI) file the reply by April 9. We will take up the matter (Yadav's bail plea) on April 10, the bench said. Prasad, currently lodged in the Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi, has challenged the January 10 verdict of the Jharkhand High Court dismissing his bail plea. The three cases in which Prasad has been convicted are related to the over-Rs 900-crore fodder scam, which pertains to fraudulent withdrawal of money from the treasuries in the Animal Husbandry department in the early 1990s, when Jharkhand was part of Bihar. The RJD was in power in Bihar with Prasad as the chief minister when the scam had allegedly taken place. (With inputs from PTI)

Supreme Court to hear Lalu Yadav's bail plea on April 10, asks CBI to file reply

India Election Watch, 5th April 2019

WION Gravitas: PM Modi hits out at Congress,BSP-SP alliance in UP

Union Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/irani-mostly-angry-trying-to-copy-amitabh-bachchan-but-always-ends-up-being-villain-surjewala-208051">BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani</a> on Friday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-love-narendra-modi-no-anger-against-him-rahul-gandhi-208114">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a> is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India.

"Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi went with anti-Bharat forces to file his nomination. Every time he reveals his real motive that he is not with Hindustan but with those elements who want to break Hindustan," said Smriti Irani, while talking to ANI at Jagdishpur in Amethi.

"The people in the national capital have already heard how he stood in support of 'Bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' (India will be ripped apart) slogan. Also, the recently released manifesto of Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi has tried to defame the Army and supported slogans like 'bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' ", said Smriti Irani.

She also alleged that Rahul colluded with scamsters for financial gains.

"He has to give answer to the nation why he stood with everyone who looted the nation. Newspaper reports say that Rahul Gandhi's name came up in AgustaWestland Scam, earlier also his name surfaced in land scam cases and he has benefitted himself in monetary terms," she said.

The&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;manifesto released on Tuesday promised significant changes in the laws, like quashing of the&nbsp;Sedition&nbsp;law and amendment to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA).

The manifesto proposed to decriminalise laws that are essentially directed against civil violations and can be subjected to civil penalties. The laws include the sedition law and defamation.

Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani on Friday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India.

Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani on Friday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is supporting the anti-national elements who want to break India. "Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi went with anti-Bharat forces to file his nomination. Every time he reveals his real motive that he is not with Hindustan but with those elements who want to break Hindustan," said Smriti Irani, while talking to ANI at Jagdishpur in Amethi. "The people in the national capital have already heard how he stood in support of 'Bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' (India will be ripped apart) slogan. Also, the recently released manifesto of Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi has tried to defame the Army and supported slogans like 'bharat-tere-tukde-hoge' ", said Smriti Irani. She also alleged that Rahul colluded with scamsters for financial gains. "He has to give answer to the nation why he stood with everyone who looted the nation. Newspaper reports say that Rahul Gandhi's name came up in AgustaWestland Scam, earlier also his name surfaced in land scam cases and he has benefitted himself in monetary terms," she said. The Congress manifesto released on Tuesday promised significant changes in the laws, like quashing of the Sedition law and amendment to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). The manifesto proposed to decriminalise laws that are essentially directed against civil violations and can be subjected to civil penalties. The laws include the sedition law and defamation.

Smriti Irani accuses Rahul Gandhi of supporting anti-national elements

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahagathbandhan-is-political-circus-recipe-for-chaos-arun-jaitley-206527">Finance Minister Arun Jaitley</a> on Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for keeping silent over the charge sheet in AgustaWestland deal case.

At a press conference here, Jaitley said, "Rahul Gandhi talks on several subjects. He makes wild and unsubstantiated allegations against all and sundry. Now, who are 'RG', 'AP'&nbsp;and 'FAM'&nbsp;mentioned in the charge sheet in the AgustaWestland case."

Commenting on the diary recovered by Enforcement Directorate (ED) from the accused in the deal, Sushen Mohan Gupta, who is under arrest now, Jaitly said, "There is an erroneous belief among Indian politicians that a diary is never admissible as evidence. A diary constitutes an admission in writing and is admissible against the maker of that admission. It is admissible against the other co-conspirators as well.

"Are 'RG', 'AP'&nbsp;and 'FAM' fictional characters or were they in a position to influence the deal?", questioned Jaitley.

Hitting out at the Congress President, Jaitley said, "How come every time there is a controversial defence deal and evidence is collected, names close to the Congress Party’s first family start appearing?"

Slamming Rahul Gandhi for his silence over the deal, Jaitley said, "The Right to Silence is available to an accused, not to a Prime Ministerial aspirant."

Citing the example of Bofors case, Jaitley said, "Alphabet 'Q'&nbsp;appeared in Martin Ardbo's diary in the Bofors Case, with a comment that 'Q'&nbsp;must be protected at all cost, the Congress party was in denial even then."

"It is only when the Swiss authorities in 1993 disclosed the names of one of the beneficiaries of the kickbacks of Bofors being paid as Ottavio Quattrocchi, the Narasimha Rao Government facilitated his escape from India in less than 24 hours. This did not wash away the ghost of ‘Q’ which had scarred the face of the Congress Party nor will 'RG', 'AP'&nbsp;and 'FAM'," he added.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for keeping silent over the charge sheet in AgustaWestland deal case. At a press conference here, Jaitley said, "Rahul Gandhi talks on several subjects.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for keeping silent over the charge sheet in AgustaWestland deal case. At a press conference here, Jaitley said, "Rahul Gandhi talks on several subjects. He makes wild and unsubstantiated allegations against all and sundry. Now, who are 'RG', 'AP' and 'FAM' mentioned in the charge sheet in the AgustaWestland case." Commenting on the diary recovered by Enforcement Directorate (ED) from the accused in the deal, Sushen Mohan Gupta, who is under arrest now, Jaitly said, "There is an erroneous belief among Indian politicians that a diary is never admissible as evidence. A diary constitutes an admission in writing and is admissible against the maker of that admission. It is admissible against the other co-conspirators as well. "Are 'RG', 'AP' and 'FAM' fictional characters or were they in a position to influence the deal?", questioned Jaitley. Hitting out at the Congress President, Jaitley said, "How come every time there is a controversial defence deal and evidence is collected, names close to the Congress Party’s first family start appearing?" Slamming Rahul Gandhi for his silence over the deal, Jaitley said, "The Right to Silence is available to an accused, not to a Prime Ministerial aspirant." Citing the example of Bofors case, Jaitley said, "Alphabet 'Q' appeared in Martin Ardbo's diary in the Bofors Case, with a comment that 'Q' must be protected at all cost, the Congress party was in denial even then." "It is only when the Swiss authorities in 1993 disclosed the names of one of the beneficiaries of the kickbacks of Bofors being paid as Ottavio Quattrocchi, the Narasimha Rao Government facilitated his escape from India in less than 24 hours. This did not wash away the ghost of ‘Q’ which had scarred the face of the Congress Party nor will 'RG', 'AP' and 'FAM'," he added.

Who are 'AP', 'FAM' mentioned in charge sheet?: Arun Jaitley questions Rahul's silence on chopper case

The Election Commission of India (ECI) transferred Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh on Friday.&nbsp;

The Commission posted Dr Rajesh Kumar, presently serving as ADG, West Bengal Pollution Control Board, as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner. Natarajan Ramesh Babu is presently posted as ADG and IG, Operations as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Sharma and Singh were reportedly seen sharing the ‘dharna’ spot of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee while protesting the CBI's move to investigate former Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar.&nbsp;

Opposition parties on several occasions levelled concerns over Sharma and Singh being directly involved in the electoral process after they were reportedly seen at the protest.&nbsp;

This apart, two other officers were also transferred. Selva Murugan was transferred from the post of SP Diamond Harbour Police district. Avvaru Ravindranath was posted as the SP Diamond Harbour. Shrihari Pandey was posted as SP Diamond Harbour replacing former SP Shyam Singh.&nbsp;

The notification issued by the ECI reads, “The direction of the Commission be implemented with immediate effect and a compliance report in respect of joining of above officers be sent within 24 hours. The present incumbent officers being shifted not to be involved by the state government in any election-related duties.”&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) transferred Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh on Friday. The Commission posted Dr Rajesh Kumar, presently serving as ADG, West Bengal Pollution Control Board, as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) transferred Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh on Friday. The Commission posted Dr Rajesh Kumar, presently serving as ADG, West Bengal Pollution Control Board, as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner. Natarajan Ramesh Babu is presently posted as ADG and IG, Operations as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner. Interestingly, Sharma and Singh were reportedly seen sharing the ‘dharna’ spot of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee while protesting the CBI's move to investigate former Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar. Opposition parties on several occasions levelled concerns over Sharma and Singh being directly involved in the electoral process after they were reportedly seen at the protest. This apart, two other officers were also transferred. Selva Murugan was transferred from the post of SP Diamond Harbour Police district. Avvaru Ravindranath was posted as the SP Diamond Harbour. Shrihari Pandey was posted as SP Diamond Harbour replacing former SP Shyam Singh. The notification issued by the ECI reads, “The direction of the Commission be implemented with immediate effect and a compliance report in respect of joining of above officers be sent within 24 hours. The present incumbent officers being shifted not to be involved by the state government in any election-related duties.”

West Bengal: ECI transfers Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma seen at Mamata Banerjee’s dharna 

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Friday announced her decision not to contest the general elections and said that BJP is free to name a candidate from Indore parliamentary constituency.

In a press statement, Mahajan, an eight-time Member of Parliament (MP) from Indore, said that the reason behind the decision was the delay in announcing the BJP candidate from the Indore seat.

"BJP has not declared its candidate from Indore. Why this state of indecision? Possibly the party has some hesitation in taking a decision. Even though I had a discussion with the leadership long back and left the decision to the party, it seems they are still in a dilemma. Therefore, I announce that I will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and the party is free to decide, without any hesitation," she said.

Reacting to Mahajan's decision, BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Sumitra tai is our senior leader. She has refused to contest the elections; hence, we are looking for a candidate."

Apart from Mahajan, senior BJP leaders like LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Kalraj Mishra, and BC Khanduri have announced that they will not to contest the polls.

In Madhya Pradesh, polling will take place in four phases on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. Indore parliamentary constituency will vote on May 19. Counting of votes will be&nbsp;held on May 23.

 
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Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Friday announced her decision not to contest the general elections and said that BJP is free to name a candidate from Indore parliamentary constituency.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Friday announced her decision not to contest the general elections and said that BJP is free to name a candidate from Indore parliamentary constituency. In a press statement, Mahajan, an eight-time Member of Parliament (MP) from Indore, said that the reason behind the decision was the delay in announcing the BJP candidate from the Indore seat. "BJP has not declared its candidate from Indore. Why this state of indecision? Possibly the party has some hesitation in taking a decision. Even though I had a discussion with the leadership long back and left the decision to the party, it seems they are still in a dilemma. Therefore, I announce that I will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and the party is free to decide, without any hesitation," she said. Reacting to Mahajan's decision, BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Sumitra tai is our senior leader. She has refused to contest the elections; hence, we are looking for a candidate." Apart from Mahajan, senior BJP leaders like LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Kalraj Mishra, and BC Khanduri have announced that they will not to contest the polls. In Madhya Pradesh, polling will take place in four phases on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. Indore parliamentary constituency will vote on May 19. Counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Sumitra Majahan won't contest, says BJP free to name candidate from Indore

Restrictions on the H1-B visas by the US have compelled Indian tech companies to hire more locally and led to an escalation in employee costs, a rating agency said Friday.

Second largest exporter Infosys led with 2,122 visa denials in the&nbsp;fiscal year 2017-18, followed by its larger rival TCS with 1,896 rejections, the report by Care Ratings said.

"The increasing protectionist measures imposed by US administration to safeguard US workers are directly having an adverse impact on the Indian IT majors," it said.

Out of the top three companies with highest H-1B visa denials in FY18, Cognizant was leading with 32 per cent denials followed by two Indian IT majors namely Infosys and TCS with 26 per cent and 18 per cent, it said.

It can be noted that the US-headquartered Cognizant has a large pool of employees working out of India comparable with any Indian tech major.

The cost structures for the Indian IT majors have been impacted as a result of the US policies, the agency said.

It can be recalled that while every major Indian company has pointed out to a surge in local hires in the US, while sub-contracting work in geographies like the US has also put a drain on profitability for some.

The report said in the last five years, the number of H-1B approvals reduced by 21 per cent.

However, after the installation of the Trump administration, which has been vigilant on ensuring American interests, there has been a faster fall. 
The approvals declined by a sharp 50 per cent in FY18 to 22,429 from the 43,957 in the year-ago period, it said.&nbsp;

Restrictions on the H1-B visas by the US have compelled Indian tech companies to hire more locally and led to an escalation in employee costs, a rating agency said Friday.

Restrictions on the H1-B visas by the US have compelled Indian tech companies to hire more locally and led to an escalation in employee costs, a rating agency said Friday. Second largest exporter Infosys led with 2,122 visa denials in the fiscal year 2017-18, followed by its larger rival TCS with 1,896 rejections, the report by Care Ratings said. "The increasing protectionist measures imposed by US administration to safeguard US workers are directly having an adverse impact on the Indian IT majors," it said. Out of the top three companies with highest H-1B visa denials in FY18, Cognizant was leading with 32 per cent denials followed by two Indian IT majors namely Infosys and TCS with 26 per cent and 18 per cent, it said. It can be noted that the US-headquartered Cognizant has a large pool of employees working out of India comparable with any Indian tech major. The cost structures for the Indian IT majors have been impacted as a result of the US policies, the agency said. It can be recalled that while every major Indian company has pointed out to a surge in local hires in the US, while sub-contracting work in geographies like the US has also put a drain on profitability for some. The report said in the last five years, the number of H-1B approvals reduced by 21 per cent. However, after the installation of the Trump administration, which has been vigilant on ensuring American interests, there has been a faster fall. The approvals declined by a sharp 50 per cent in FY18 to 22,429 from the 43,957 in the year-ago period, it said.

H1-B visa restrictions compel tech firms to hire more locals

Union Minister of Railways and former Finance Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday expressed his happiness over the rate cuts announced by the RBI.

He also praised the RBI Governor Shaktikant Das.

"I am glad that the Governor of the RBI seems to have made the right moves in the last five months," he said while speaking to reporters.

On being asked if the rate cuts should have come earlier, Goyal said, "I wish everybody was as persistent in the effort to promote growth."

The Union Minister added, "Heinous crime of politician needs to be brought out in the public and India needs to know about those politicians. Such politicians should not be given space in politics."

Goyal also talked of the advantage of Electoral bonds while claiming that his party is seriously working to bring legitimate money in the election.

"Electoral bonds advantage is that there is anonymity but you can give it to any party and nobody will know about it. We as a party had decided not to accept money without cheque or bond," he said while asserting that Electoral bonds have an important role in good governance.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday cut repo rate for the second consecutive time this year to 6 per cent from the current 6.25 per cent, a move that will cheer industry leaders over relief from high borrowing costs a week before the first phase of General elections.

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Union Minister of Railways and former Finance Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday expressed his happiness over the rate cuts announced by the RBI. He also praised the RBI Governor Shaktikant Das.

Union Minister of Railways and former Finance Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday expressed his happiness over the rate cuts announced by the RBI. He also praised the RBI Governor Shaktikant Das. "I am glad that the Governor of the RBI seems to have made the right moves in the last five months," he said while speaking to reporters. On being asked if the rate cuts should have come earlier, Goyal said, "I wish everybody was as persistent in the effort to promote growth." The Union Minister added, "Heinous crime of politician needs to be brought out in the public and India needs to know about those politicians. Such politicians should not be given space in politics." Goyal also talked of the advantage of Electoral bonds while claiming that his party is seriously working to bring legitimate money in the election. "Electoral bonds advantage is that there is anonymity but you can give it to any party and nobody will know about it. We as a party had decided not to accept money without cheque or bond," he said while asserting that Electoral bonds have an important role in good governance. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday cut repo rate for the second consecutive time this year to 6 per cent from the current 6.25 per cent, a move that will cheer industry leaders over relief from high borrowing costs a week before the first phase of General elections.

Piyush Goyal 'glad' over RBI governor 'making right moves'

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan died following an encounter with Naxals in Saleghat forest area at Dhamtari in Chhattisgarh, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

According to the report, two CRPF jawans sustained injuries following the encounter and one succumbed to injuries. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The CRPF jawans inflicted heavy loss to Naxals, the report added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-4-bsf-jawans-killed-in-encounter-with-naxals-207898">Four BSF jawans</a> were killed in an encounter with Naxals at Kanker, southern Chhattisgarh on Thursday.&nbsp;

The gun battle took place around noon in a dense forest near Mahla village in Kanker district when a joint team of BSF's 114th battalion and the District Force was out on a search operation.&nbsp;

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan died following an encounter with Naxals in Saleghat forest area at Dhamtari in Chhattisgarh, reported news agency ANI.

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan died following an encounter with Naxals in Saleghat forest area at Dhamtari in Chhattisgarh, reported news agency ANI. According to the report, two CRPF jawans sustained injuries following the encounter and one succumbed to injuries. The CRPF jawans inflicted heavy loss to Naxals, the report added. Four BSF jawans were killed in an encounter with Naxals at Kanker, southern Chhattisgarh on Thursday. The gun battle took place around noon in a dense forest near Mahla village in Kanker district when a joint team of BSF's 114th battalion and the District Force was out on a search operation.

Chhattisgarh: One CRPF jawan killed in encounter with Naxals   

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-choppers-mp-cm-kamal-naths-nephew-appears-before-ed-207853">AgustaWestland VVIP choppers</a> deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday.

The chargesheet said according to the "budget sheet, 30 million euros were paid to Air Force officers, bureaucrats and politicians" to swing the deal in the favour of AgustaWestland for purchasing the choppers to ferry VVIPs across the country.

"Christian Michel James has further disclosed various abbreviations used in the budget sheet, which contains the details of the payments made to Air Force officials, bureaucrats and political persons.

As per Christian Michel James, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-case-ed-arrests-alleged-middleman-sushen-mohan-gupta-205689">'AP' means Ahmed Patel</a> and 'Fam' means Family," the ED said.

At another place in the chargesheet, Michel said, "I cannot say what Haschke was thinking. As a guess, I would think he was talking about Ahmed Patel."

Regarding "Fam", he said it "could mean family".

While the identity of the said Ahmed Patel is not clear, it is understood that it refers to the senior Congress leader. The veteran leader has not been named in the PMLA FIR of the case.

In the same chargesheet, Rajiv Saxena, another accused arrested in the case, has been quoted by the ED as saying that "AP" was a "reference" to Ahmed Patel.

Patel in the past has denied any wrongdoing in the case.

The ED said the kickback paid by the Anglo-Italian firm in the case was "at least about 12 per cent of the contract amount" and around 70 million euros were paid through the two middlemen involved in the case - Michel and Guido Haschke.

It added that this was an "undisputed fact" that the two middlemen had received kickbacks worth 70 million euros.

The agency said this fact could be corroborated with the receipt of kickbacks in the bank accounts of companies "controlled and beneficially owned" by Michel and Haschke.&nbsp;

It said the company "enlisted" the two as agents for the VVIP choppers deal in India as it wanted to promote its product and ensure that it became a frontrunner to bag the deal.&nbsp;

The central probe agency, in its 3,000-page supplementary chargesheet with 52 main pages, also named David Syms, Michel's alleged business partner, and two firms owned by them - Global Trade and Commerce Ltd and Global Services FZE - as accused.

In its first chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, the ED had alleged that he and others had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland.

Special Judge Arvind Kumar said he would decide on whether to take cognisance of the ED's supplementary chargesheet and summon the accused on April 6.

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday.

Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers deal case, is understood to have identified the initials "AP" as Congress leader Ahmed Patel in a chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before a court on Thursday. The chargesheet said according to the "budget sheet, 30 million euros were paid to Air Force officers, bureaucrats and politicians" to swing the deal in the favour of AgustaWestland for purchasing the choppers to ferry VVIPs across the country. "Christian Michel James has further disclosed various abbreviations used in the budget sheet, which contains the details of the payments made to Air Force officials, bureaucrats and political persons. As per Christian Michel James, 'AP' means Ahmed Patel and 'Fam' means Family," the ED said. At another place in the chargesheet, Michel said, "I cannot say what Haschke was thinking. As a guess, I would think he was talking about Ahmed Patel." Regarding "Fam", he said it "could mean family". While the identity of the said Ahmed Patel is not clear, it is understood that it refers to the senior Congress leader. The veteran leader has not been named in the PMLA FIR of the case. In the same chargesheet, Rajiv Saxena, another accused arrested in the case, has been quoted by the ED as saying that "AP" was a "reference" to Ahmed Patel. Patel in the past has denied any wrongdoing in the case. The ED said the kickback paid by the Anglo-Italian firm in the case was "at least about 12 per cent of the contract amount" and around 70 million euros were paid through the two middlemen involved in the case - Michel and Guido Haschke. It added that this was an "undisputed fact" that the two middlemen had received kickbacks worth 70 million euros. The agency said this fact could be corroborated with the receipt of kickbacks in the bank accounts of companies "controlled and beneficially owned" by Michel and Haschke. It said the company "enlisted" the two as agents for the VVIP choppers deal in India as it wanted to promote its product and ensure that it became a frontrunner to bag the deal. The central probe agency, in its 3,000-page supplementary chargesheet with 52 main pages, also named David Syms, Michel's alleged business partner, and two firms owned by them - Global Trade and Commerce Ltd and Global Services FZE - as accused. In its first chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, the ED had alleged that he and others had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland. Special Judge Arvind Kumar said he would decide on whether to take cognisance of the ED's supplementary chargesheet and summon the accused on April 6.

AgustaWestland case: Michel identifies 'AP' as Ahmed Patel in ED chargesheet

The only thriving Chinatown in the country is bustling with political activity, probably for the first time in its history, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lok-sabha-polls-2019-chinese-wall-graffiti-appear-on-kolkata-streets-207629">graffiti of political leaders</a> making a debut on the walls of the township, otherwise known for its signature eateries.

According to a political analyst, Bengal has always had a Chinese connection as the Left leaders in the state often swore by the communist regime in the neighbouring country, lauding its policies.

The people of Chinatown, however, have largely stayed away from the hustle and bustle of election. This time around, the scenario has changed.

Kolkata's Chinese connect has taken a new form and shape, with people in this part of the city coming out in support of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), painting the township blue and white (the colours of the ruling party) with political slogans in Mandarin.

One can easily spot sketches of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the party's candidate from South Kolkata seat, Mala Roy, adorning the whitewashed walls of the Chinatown with 'Vote for Trinamool Congress' written in the Chinese language beside the drawings.

A graffiti featuring Modi in his 'chowkidaar' avatar, while another with Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi on a Kingfisher airline plane, have also occupied space on the fences.

Roy, who is the chairperson of Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), claimed that many in the town are loyal supporters of the TMC.

She claimed that the residents have taken it upon themselves to campaign for the party, without any prodding from the leaders.

"Of the 5,000 Chinese people residing in the town, 2,000 are eligible voters. We work with them throughout the year," the TMC candidate asserted.

Translating the Mandarin slogans, KMC councillor Faiz Ahmed Khan said the town residents have urged people to support TMC and vote for Mala Roy.

Vincent Lee, a Chinese-origin man born and raised in the city, said that this was the first time he came across a political graffiti in the settlement.

Lee (55), who runs a shoe shop at Bentinck Street in the central part of Kolkata, said, "This is unique, many of us are voters, but never have I seen a political graffiti in Mandarin in the town."

Franchis Hing, another Indian of Chinese ancestry, said he and his family are involved in the tannery business and have never had anything to do with local politics.

He, however, acknowledged that the town has never seen its people openly supporting a political party.

The Chinese-origin people in the city, whose ancestors moved here in the 18th century, are mostly involved in manufacture and trade of leather goods or running Chinese restaurants.

According to a study, the numbers of Chinese-origin people, which was nearly 20,000 in the city at one point of time, have dwindled over the years with many migrating to countries like Canada, USA and Australia.&nbsp;

The only thriving Chinatown in the country is bustling with political activity, probably for the first time in its history, with graffiti of political leaders making a debut on the walls of the township, otherwise known for its signature eateries.

The only thriving Chinatown in the country is bustling with political activity, probably for the first time in its history, with graffiti of political leaders making a debut on the walls of the township, otherwise known for its signature eateries. According to a political analyst, Bengal has always had a Chinese connection as the Left leaders in the state often swore by the communist regime in the neighbouring country, lauding its policies. The people of Chinatown, however, have largely stayed away from the hustle and bustle of election. This time around, the scenario has changed. Kolkata's Chinese connect has taken a new form and shape, with people in this part of the city coming out in support of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), painting the township blue and white (the colours of the ruling party) with political slogans in Mandarin. One can easily spot sketches of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the party's candidate from South Kolkata seat, Mala Roy, adorning the whitewashed walls of the Chinatown with 'Vote for Trinamool Congress' written in the Chinese language beside the drawings. A graffiti featuring Modi in his 'chowkidaar' avatar, while another with Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi on a Kingfisher airline plane, have also occupied space on the fences. Roy, who is the chairperson of Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), claimed that many in the town are loyal supporters of the TMC. She claimed that the residents have taken it upon themselves to campaign for the party, without any prodding from the leaders. "Of the 5,000 Chinese people residing in the town, 2,000 are eligible voters. We work with them throughout the year," the TMC candidate asserted. Translating the Mandarin slogans, KMC councillor Faiz Ahmed Khan said the town residents have urged people to support TMC and vote for Mala Roy. Vincent Lee, a Chinese-origin man born and raised in the city, said that this was the first time he came across a political graffiti in the settlement. Lee (55), who runs a shoe shop at Bentinck Street in the central part of Kolkata, said, "This is unique, many of us are voters, but never have I seen a political graffiti in Mandarin in the town." Franchis Hing, another Indian of Chinese ancestry, said he and his family are involved in the tannery business and have never had anything to do with local politics. He, however, acknowledged that the town has never seen its people openly supporting a political party. The Chinese-origin people in the city, whose ancestors moved here in the 18th century, are mostly involved in manufacture and trade of leather goods or running Chinese restaurants. According to a study, the numbers of Chinese-origin people, which was nearly 20,000 in the city at one point of time, have dwindled over the years with many migrating to countries like Canada, USA and Australia.

Mandarin graffiti in support of TMC adorn walls of Kolkata's Chinatown

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-s-400-missile-purchase-from-russia-a-done-deal-cannot-be-cancelled-foreign-minister-208029">S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey</a>

Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gives-us-china-trade-talks-another-four-weeks-208038">Trump gives US-China trade talks another four weeks</a>

President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-divorce-settlement-mackenzie-bezos-becomes-third-richest-woman-in-the-world-208042">After divorce settlement, MacKenzie Bezos becomes </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-divorce-settlement-mackenzie-bezos-becomes-third-richest-woman-in-the-world-208042">third</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-divorce-settlement-mackenzie-bezos-becomes-third-richest-woman-in-the-world-208042"> richest woman in the world</a>

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, MacKenzie, finalised the biggest divorce settlement in history on Thursday, leaving him with 75 per cent of their stock in the tech giant and giving her nearly $36 billion in shares. &nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-names-carlos-ghosn-vows-to-clear-his-name-in-japan-trial-208034">'I have names': Carlos Ghosn vows to clear his name in Japan trial</a>

Former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn vowed to prove his innocence of alleged financial misdeeds but raised doubts about receiving a fair trial in Japan, in an interview with French television just before he was re-arrested on Thursday. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/release-of-modi-biopic-pm-narendra-modi-delayed-cbfc-chief-says-film-yet-to-be-certified-208041">Release</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/release-of-modi-biopic-pm-narendra-modi-delayed-cbfc-chief-says-film-yet-to-be-certified-208041"> of Modi biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' delayed, CBFC chief says film yet to be certified&nbsp;</a>

The release of "PM Narendra Modi", a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

&nbsp;

S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday. Trump gives US-China trade talks another four weeks President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement. After divorce settlement, MacKenzie Bezos becomes third richest woman in the world Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, MacKenzie, finalised the biggest divorce settlement in history on Thursday, leaving him with 75 per cent of their stock in the tech giant and giving her nearly $36 billion in shares. 'I have names': Carlos Ghosn vows to clear his name in Japan trial Former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn vowed to prove his innocence of alleged financial misdeeds but raised doubts about receiving a fair trial in Japan, in an interview with French television just before he was re-arrested on Thursday. Release of Modi biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' delayed, CBFC chief says film yet to be certified The release of "PM Narendra Modi", a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the people of Amethi will ensure her "decisive defeat" and will show her what "temperate behaviour is and what respect for the opponent is".

"I can understand the scepticism and also the constant fear that prevails in the mind of Smriti Irani ji. She is mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but she always ends up being the villain in the story. She is getting ready for her third successive defeat," he said.

"We will defeat her with the blessings of the people of Amethi, but we will always respect her as an opponent," Surjewala said.

The Congress leader also took a swipe at her saying despite her third defeat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will give her a Rajya Sabha seat and she should not be worried, "for she has never won even a panchayat election in her whole life".

On her first visit to Amethi, Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary constituency, after the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Irani attacked the Congress president, saying his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala was an 'insult' to Amethi.

The 48-year-old Congress chief is contesting from Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold Amethi, where he is pitted against the Union textile minister.

Terming herself 'didi' (elder sister), Irani told a gathering in Parsadepur in Amethi, "This is a coincidence, a sign from God that 'didi' arrived here and the missing MP reached Kerala. I have come to seek (people's) blessings and he rejected the blessings."&nbsp;

The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi.

The Congress Thursday hit out at Union Minister Smriti Irani for her attack on Rahul Gandhi, saying she was mostly angry and trying to copy actor Amitabh Bachchan but ends up being a villain as she gears up to face another defeat in Amethi. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the people of Amethi will ensure her "decisive defeat" and will show her what "temperate behaviour is and what respect for the opponent is". "I can understand the scepticism and also the constant fear that prevails in the mind of Smriti Irani ji. She is mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but she always ends up being the villain in the story. She is getting ready for her third successive defeat," he said. "We will defeat her with the blessings of the people of Amethi, but we will always respect her as an opponent," Surjewala said. The Congress leader also took a swipe at her saying despite her third defeat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will give her a Rajya Sabha seat and she should not be worried, "for she has never won even a panchayat election in her whole life". On her first visit to Amethi, Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary constituency, after the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Irani attacked the Congress president, saying his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala was an 'insult' to Amethi. The 48-year-old Congress chief is contesting from Kerala in addition to his traditional stronghold Amethi, where he is pitted against the Union textile minister. Terming herself 'didi' (elder sister), Irani told a gathering in Parsadepur in Amethi, "This is a coincidence, a sign from God that 'didi' arrived here and the missing MP reached Kerala. I have come to seek (people's) blessings and he rejected the blessings."

Irani mostly angry, trying to copy Amitabh Bachchan but always ends up being villain: Surjewala

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP.

Next batch of 100 will be released on April 15, followed by 100 on April 22 and 60 on April 29.

The development comes in the backdrop of New Delhi sending a note verbale to Pakistan high commission on Tuesday calling for the release of the 385 Indian fishermen who have completed their sentences.&nbsp;

503 Indian fishermen are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody of which Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 483 fishermen who are Indian or believed-to-be-Indian in their jails.&nbsp;

Since 2014, the Indian Government has been able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats.

In December of 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid Nehal was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was caught with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook.

It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India--Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and was released in 2018, after spending 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic from swat, crossed over to India to meet Shah Rukh Khan in 2017.

In October 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee.

In the past 6 months, the ministry of external affairs via--3 note verbale, one on 1 January, other in December and November-- had called on Islamabad to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has got no response.

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP.

Pakistan will release 360 Indian in its custody in this month with the first batch of 100 Indians being released on Monday. Most of them are fishermen who are from Gujarat and some from UP. Next batch of 100 will be released on April 15, followed by 100 on April 22 and 60 on April 29. The development comes in the backdrop of New Delhi sending a note verbale to Pakistan high commission on Tuesday calling for the release of the 385 Indian fishermen who have completed their sentences. 503 Indian fishermen are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody of which Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 483 fishermen who are Indian or believed-to-be-Indian in their jails. Since 2014, the Indian Government has been able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats. In December of 2018, Pakistan released Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after six years in jail. Hamid Nehal was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was caught with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook. It was followed by the release of two Pakistani nationals by India--Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah. Imran Wari had come to India in 2004 on a valid visa but overstayed after marrying an Indian girl. He was caught after trying to make a fake passport in Bhopal and was released in 2018, after spending 10 years in jail. Shah, an autistic from swat, crossed over to India to meet Shah Rukh Khan in 2017. In October 2017, India had suggested Pakistan that the two sides could work together for the release and repatriation of elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners on humanitarian grounds and proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee. In the past 6 months, the ministry of external affairs via--3 note verbale, one on 1 January, other in December and November-- had called on Islamabad to organise an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan but it has got no response.

Pakistan to release 360 Indian prisoners this month

With election fever mounting across the country, RJD boss Lalu Prasad will be spilling the beans on many inflection points in the country's political history in his upcoming memoir, the book's publishers said Thursday.

Prasad, a former union minister and Bihar chief minister, has penned the memoir with journalist-turned-teacher Nalin Verma and the memoir will release on April 6, a Rupa Publications statement said.

Titled "Gopalganj to Raisina", the book is a recollection of the journey of India's "most colourful" political leader and navigates his humble origins in Phulwaria village to his remarkable rise as the Railway Minister, it said.

The book relives the twists and turns as well as the highs and lows of his life.

"In doing so, it reveals little-known facets of many inflection points in the nation's history: the Emergency, how he got V P Singh to implement the explosive Mandal Commission recommendations, the arrest of BJP leader L K Advani during the latter's Rath Yatra, Sonia Gandhi's decision to not lead the UPA government, his acceptance of Manmohan Singh's candidature for prime minister in 2004, and his relationship with friend-turned-foe Nitish Kumar," the statement said.

The autobiography, described as a political potboiler, is most important if one has to understand the evolution of the politics of the Dalits and the marginalised, it said.&nbsp;

With election fever mounting across the country, RJD boss Lalu Prasad will be spilling the beans on many inflection points in the country's political history in his upcoming memoir, the book's publishers said Thursday.

With election fever mounting across the country, RJD boss Lalu Prasad will be spilling the beans on many inflection points in the country's political history in his upcoming memoir, the book's publishers said Thursday. Prasad, a former union minister and Bihar chief minister, has penned the memoir with journalist-turned-teacher Nalin Verma and the memoir will release on April 6, a Rupa Publications statement said. Titled "Gopalganj to Raisina", the book is a recollection of the journey of India's "most colourful" political leader and navigates his humble origins in Phulwaria village to his remarkable rise as the Railway Minister, it said. The book relives the twists and turns as well as the highs and lows of his life. "In doing so, it reveals little-known facets of many inflection points in the nation's history: the Emergency, how he got V P Singh to implement the explosive Mandal Commission recommendations, the arrest of BJP leader L K Advani during the latter's Rath Yatra, Sonia Gandhi's decision to not lead the UPA government, his acceptance of Manmohan Singh's candidature for prime minister in 2004, and his relationship with friend-turned-foe Nitish Kumar," the statement said. The autobiography, described as a political potboiler, is most important if one has to understand the evolution of the politics of the Dalits and the marginalised, it said.

From Mandal Commission to Sonia to Nitish, Lalu tells all in upcoming memoir

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