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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-the-northeast-lotus-first-bloomed-in-arunachal-pradesh-pm-modi-206651">Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said</a> although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward.&nbsp;

"Despite doing many things, still a lot is required to be done for taking the country forward. If something is left to be done somewhere, if speed was slow somewhere, if priorities were changed somewhere, I am here for your blessings to complete the work," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Gohpur, Assam on Saturday.

The Prime Minister said that he never claimed to have completed all that needs to be done in five years.&nbsp;

"I have tried my best with sincerity to serve Assam and people of the nation, but my dear brothers and sisters I do not claim that I have completed all the work in five years. If those who have stayed for 70 years cannot claim then how can a person who is there for 5 years claim this?" he asked while making a veiled reference to Congress.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister also referred to himself as the 'chowkidar' whom the Opposition is afraid of.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> "Mein ek chowkidar hun, mein ek chowkidar hun...aap bhi hain na?", asks Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the public present at his rally in Gohpur, Assam. <a href="https://t.co/MhmtlI5Z46">pic.twitter.com/MhmtlI5Z46</a>
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"I am a chowkidar...you are also the same right?" he asked the public present at the rally. "I am the kind of chowkidar you all love but they are afraid of," he added.

In an oblique reference to Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister Modi said that Assam has given a Prime Minister which the people of the state do not remember.

"You have given a Prime Minister also. He was the Prime Minister that people of Assam don't even remember about," he quipped.

Citing Lachit Borphukan he said: "No Mama (maternal uncle) is bigger than the nation."

"But for the Congress, every 'Mama' is bigger than the nation who support and help them in their vested interest and greed. Congress has Michel Mama, Quattrocchi Mama and many more Mamas for whom they can even put the country at stake," he claimed.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Lok Sabha election will be held in Assam on April 11, 18 and 23. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward. "Despite doing many things, still a lot is required to be done for taking the country forward.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward. "Despite doing many things, still a lot is required to be done for taking the country forward. If something is left to be done somewhere, if speed was slow somewhere, if priorities were changed somewhere, I am here for your blessings to complete the work," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Gohpur, Assam on Saturday. The Prime Minister said that he never claimed to have completed all that needs to be done in five years. "I have tried my best with sincerity to serve Assam and people of the nation, but my dear brothers and sisters I do not claim that I have completed all the work in five years. If those who have stayed for 70 years cannot claim then how can a person who is there for 5 years claim this?" he asked while making a veiled reference to Congress. The Prime Minister also referred to himself as the 'chowkidar' whom the Opposition is afraid of. #WATCH "Mein ek chowkidar hun, mein ek chowkidar hun...aap bhi hain na?", asks Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the public present at his rally in Gohpur, Assam. pic.twitter.com/MhmtlI5Z46 — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2019 × "I am a chowkidar...you are also the same right?" he asked the public present at the rally. "I am the kind of chowkidar you all love but they are afraid of," he added. In an oblique reference to Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister Modi said that Assam has given a Prime Minister which the people of the state do not remember. "You have given a Prime Minister also. He was the Prime Minister that people of Assam don't even remember about," he quipped. Citing Lachit Borphukan he said: "No Mama (maternal uncle) is bigger than the nation." "But for the Congress, every 'Mama' is bigger than the nation who support and help them in their vested interest and greed. Congress has Michel Mama, Quattrocchi Mama and many more Mamas for whom they can even put the country at stake," he claimed. The Lok Sabha election will be held in Assam on April 11, 18 and 23. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lots to be done to take the country forward, I'm here to complete that work: PM Modi

Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah filed his nomination papers on Saturday for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani accompanied Shah.

The BJP chief submitted his nomination form to the Gandhinagar district collector and returning officer S K Langa.

BJP president Amit Shah Saturday held a massive roadshow here before filing his nomination for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Lakhs of people greeted Shah on the four-km route from where his road show passed.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Piyush Goyal, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel accompanied Shah in an open vehicle during the road show that started from Sardar Patel statue in Naranpura area in Ahmedabad.

BJP workers and people thronged the street to greet Shah, who is contesting the Lok Sabha election for the first time. It was a massive show of strength for the BJP, which aims to retain all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat it had won in 2014.

The roadshow ended at Prabhat Chowk area of Ghatlodia, after which Shah left for Gandhinagar to file the nomination papers.

Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah filed his nomination papers on Saturday for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani accompanied Shah.

Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah filed his nomination papers on Saturday for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani accompanied Shah. The BJP chief submitted his nomination form to the Gandhinagar district collector and returning officer S K Langa. BJP president Amit Shah Saturday held a massive roadshow here before filing his nomination for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency. Lakhs of people greeted Shah on the four-km route from where his road show passed. Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Piyush Goyal, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel accompanied Shah in an open vehicle during the road show that started from Sardar Patel statue in Naranpura area in Ahmedabad. BJP workers and people thronged the street to greet Shah, who is contesting the Lok Sabha election for the first time. It was a massive show of strength for the BJP, which aims to retain all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat it had won in 2014. The roadshow ended at Prabhat Chowk area of Ghatlodia, after which Shah left for Gandhinagar to file the nomination papers.

BJP president Amit Shah files nomination from Gandhinagar seat

P Rajagopal, founder of South Indian restaurant chain 'Sarvana Bhavan', was Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-upholds-conviction-life-imprisonment-of-saravana-bhavan-founder-in-murder-case-206445">awarded life imprisonment by the Supreme Court</a> for abducting and killing the woman's husband in 2001.

Either on the "advice of an astrologer" or "having become besotted with" the wife of his employee Santhakumar, Rajagopal initially attempted to make her his third wife and after failing in his endeavour, plotted abduction and murder of her husband, the top court noted its judgement.

A bench of Justices NV Ramana, M M Shantanagoudar and Indira Banerji dismissed as many as nine appeals of nine convicts including Rajagopal and upheld the Madras High Court verdict awarding life term to them.

The High Court had in 2009 enhanced to life term the 10-year imprisonment awarded by a local court to Rajagopal and eight others in the murder case.

"In our considered opinion, the prosecution has proved the complicity of all the appellants in murdering Santhakumar by strangulating him and thereafter throwing the dead body at Tiger Chola," the top court said in its verdict.

"Having regard to the entire material on record and the totality of facts and circumstances, we find that the evidence on record fully proves the case of the prosecution and that the Trial Court, as well as the High Court, evaluated the material on record in its proper perspective while coming to their conclusion.

"Thus, the judgment of the Trial Court as modified by the High Court need not be interfered with. Hence these appeals fail and stand dismissed," said Justice Shantanagoudar, who wrote the verdict.

The top court lent credence to the testimony of the wife of the deceased and termed her version as "overwhelming, consistent, cogent and reliable" and said that her testimony can be corroborated with the statements of others.

"We reiterate that PWs 1 (wife)...Steadfast in their testimony about the motive, the last seen circumstance, recovery of the dead body based on the confession of Accused No.2, and about the identification of the dead body. We do not find any embellishment or exaggeration in the evidence of these witnesses," it said.

The court did not consider minor discrepancies and lack of DNA test to identify the dead body as fatal to the case.

"It is worth recalling that while it is necessary that proof beyond reasonable doubt should be adduced in all criminal cases, it is not necessary that such proof should be perfect, and someone who is guilty cannot get away with impunity only because the truth may develop some infirmity when projected through human processes," it said.

The traditional dogmatic "hyper-technical approach" has to be replaced by a "rational, realistic and genuine approach for administering justice in a criminal trial", it said, adding that "justice cannot be made sterile by exaggerated adherence to the rule of proof, inasmuch as the benefit of doubt must always be reasonable and not fanciful."

The judgement noted that either upon the advice of an astrologer or "having become besotted" with the wife of the employee, the key accused had evinced a keen desire to marry her.

In order to fulfil his desire, Rajagopal used to financially help the woman, her family members and her husband, it said, adding that the key accused used to talk to the woman on phone frequently and also gave her costly gifts.

On October 1, 2001, the key accused got the woman and her husband abducted. The accused first persuaded and then threatened them to separate so that he can re-marry her.

A separate proceeding was on in the abduction case.

A few days later, the victim was again abducted and then killed.

The body was later exhumed at the instance of one of the accused and the post mortem was conducted and the report suggested that he was strangulated.&nbsp;

"In our considered view, the recovery of the body of the deceased at the instance of Accused No. 2 and the identification of the body as that of Santhakumar by PW1, her family as well as by the accused, on the basis of photographs, the clothes and belongings of the deceased, and his scar, stand proved beyond all reasonable doubt," the apex court said.

The apex court asked the convicts including Rajagopal to surrender by July 7 to serve the jail terms.&nbsp;

The Saravana Bhavan group has over 20 outlets in South India, many others in the north and overseas.&nbsp;

P Rajagopal, founder of South Indian restaurant chain 'Sarvana Bhavan', was Friday awarded life imprisonment by the Supreme Court for abducting and killing the woman's husband in 2001.

P Rajagopal, founder of South Indian restaurant chain 'Sarvana Bhavan', was Friday awarded life imprisonment by the Supreme Court for abducting and killing the woman's husband in 2001. Either on the "advice of an astrologer" or "having become besotted with" the wife of his employee Santhakumar, Rajagopal initially attempted to make her his third wife and after failing in his endeavour, plotted abduction and murder of her husband, the top court noted its judgement. A bench of Justices NV Ramana, M M Shantanagoudar and Indira Banerji dismissed as many as nine appeals of nine convicts including Rajagopal and upheld the Madras High Court verdict awarding life term to them. The High Court had in 2009 enhanced to life term the 10-year imprisonment awarded by a local court to Rajagopal and eight others in the murder case. "In our considered opinion, the prosecution has proved the complicity of all the appellants in murdering Santhakumar by strangulating him and thereafter throwing the dead body at Tiger Chola," the top court said in its verdict. "Having regard to the entire material on record and the totality of facts and circumstances, we find that the evidence on record fully proves the case of the prosecution and that the Trial Court, as well as the High Court, evaluated the material on record in its proper perspective while coming to their conclusion. "Thus, the judgment of the Trial Court as modified by the High Court need not be interfered with. Hence these appeals fail and stand dismissed," said Justice Shantanagoudar, who wrote the verdict. The top court lent credence to the testimony of the wife of the deceased and termed her version as "overwhelming, consistent, cogent and reliable" and said that her testimony can be corroborated with the statements of others. "We reiterate that PWs 1 (wife)...Steadfast in their testimony about the motive, the last seen circumstance, recovery of the dead body based on the confession of Accused No.2, and about the identification of the dead body. We do not find any embellishment or exaggeration in the evidence of these witnesses," it said. The court did not consider minor discrepancies and lack of DNA test to identify the dead body as fatal to the case. "It is worth recalling that while it is necessary that proof beyond reasonable doubt should be adduced in all criminal cases, it is not necessary that such proof should be perfect, and someone who is guilty cannot get away with impunity only because the truth may develop some infirmity when projected through human processes," it said. The traditional dogmatic "hyper-technical approach" has to be replaced by a "rational, realistic and genuine approach for administering justice in a criminal trial", it said, adding that "justice cannot be made sterile by exaggerated adherence to the rule of proof, inasmuch as the benefit of doubt must always be reasonable and not fanciful." The judgement noted that either upon the advice of an astrologer or "having become besotted" with the wife of the employee, the key accused had evinced a keen desire to marry her. In order to fulfil his desire, Rajagopal used to financially help the woman, her family members and her husband, it said, adding that the key accused used to talk to the woman on phone frequently and also gave her costly gifts. On October 1, 2001, the key accused got the woman and her husband abducted. The accused first persuaded and then threatened them to separate so that he can re-marry her. A separate proceeding was on in the abduction case. A few days later, the victim was again abducted and then killed. The body was later exhumed at the instance of one of the accused and the post mortem was conducted and the report suggested that he was strangulated. "In our considered view, the recovery of the body of the deceased at the instance of Accused No. 2 and the identification of the body as that of Santhakumar by PW1, her family as well as by the accused, on the basis of photographs, the clothes and belongings of the deceased, and his scar, stand proved beyond all reasonable doubt," the apex court said. The apex court asked the convicts including Rajagopal to surrender by July 7 to serve the jail terms. The Saravana Bhavan group has over 20 outlets in South India, many others in the north and overseas.

'Besotted' Saravana Bhavan owner wanted to marry employee's wife who he got killed

India and Canadia officials discussed cross border terrorism and Khalistani extremism during 16th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism on March 26, 27 in Ottawa.&nbsp;

A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "The delegations discussed the reference for the first time to the threat from Khalistani extremism in Public Safety Canada’s 2018 annual Report on Terrorism Threats in Canada."

In December of 2018, a report by Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness said Canada not only faces threats from Khalistani extremists but also some Canadians continue to support Khalistani extremism.

The report identified two key Sikh organizations --Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation--as being associated with terrorism and currently remain listed as terrorist entities under the Canadian Criminal Code.

The 1985 Air India bombing by Khalistani terrorists, which killed 331 people, remains the deadliest terrorist plot ever in Canada.&nbsp;

India Canada Joint Working Group reviewed threats posed by "terrorist groups worldwide and in their respective countries and regions, including cross-border terrorism" and discussed actions "undertaken to counter terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization to violence."

While the Canadian delegation was led by Global Affairs Canada’s Director General for the Counter-Terrorism, Crime and Intelligence Bureau, Martin Benjamin, and India’s Joint Secretary for Counter-Terrorism from the Ministry of External Affairs Mahaveer Singhvi.

Both sides also discussed challenges posed by virtual currencies, cyberspace, and terrorist propaganda shared on social and other media.

India and Canada agreed on a Joint Action Plan to strengthen counter-terrorism collaboration which involves information and technology sharing at the end of the meeting.

New Delhi has offered to host the 17th meeting of the Joint Working Group and the third Expert Sub-group in 2020.

India and Canadia officials discussed cross border terrorism and Khalistani extremism during 16th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism on March 26, 27 in Ottawa.

India and Canadia officials discussed cross border terrorism and Khalistani extremism during 16th meeting of Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism on March 26, 27 in Ottawa. A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "The delegations discussed the reference for the first time to the threat from Khalistani extremism in Public Safety Canada’s 2018 annual Report on Terrorism Threats in Canada." In December of 2018, a report by Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness said Canada not only faces threats from Khalistani extremists but also some Canadians continue to support Khalistani extremism. The report identified two key Sikh organizations --Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation--as being associated with terrorism and currently remain listed as terrorist entities under the Canadian Criminal Code. The 1985 Air India bombing by Khalistani terrorists, which killed 331 people, remains the deadliest terrorist plot ever in Canada. India Canada Joint Working Group reviewed threats posed by "terrorist groups worldwide and in their respective countries and regions, including cross-border terrorism" and discussed actions "undertaken to counter terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization to violence." While the Canadian delegation was led by Global Affairs Canada’s Director General for the Counter-Terrorism, Crime and Intelligence Bureau, Martin Benjamin, and India’s Joint Secretary for Counter-Terrorism from the Ministry of External Affairs Mahaveer Singhvi. Both sides also discussed challenges posed by virtual currencies, cyberspace, and terrorist propaganda shared on social and other media. India and Canada agreed on a Joint Action Plan to strengthen counter-terrorism collaboration which involves information and technology sharing at the end of the meeting. New Delhi has offered to host the 17th meeting of the Joint Working Group and the third Expert Sub-group in 2020.

India, Canada discuss Khalistani extremism, cross border terror

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel.

The incident occurred around 10.30 am, triggering memories of the February 14 vehicle-borne suicide attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama in Kashmir that claimed the lives of 40 personnel.

Officials said the car, a Hyundai Santro model, was completely gutted in the fire. Due to the impact of the blast, slight damage was caused to the rear of the CRPF bus registered with a Haryana number plate.

It is suspected that the car was carrying a mix of chemicals, explosives and LPG cylinders.

"No injuries were caused to the CRPF personnel and the incident is being investigated in respect to all possible angles," a senior official said.

About 10 vehicles were reported to be part of the CRPF convoy.&nbsp;

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel.

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel. The incident occurred around 10.30 am, triggering memories of the February 14 vehicle-borne suicide attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama in Kashmir that claimed the lives of 40 personnel. Officials said the car, a Hyundai Santro model, was completely gutted in the fire. Due to the impact of the blast, slight damage was caused to the rear of the CRPF bus registered with a Haryana number plate. It is suspected that the car was carrying a mix of chemicals, explosives and LPG cylinders. "No injuries were caused to the CRPF personnel and the incident is being investigated in respect to all possible angles," a senior official said. About 10 vehicles were reported to be part of the CRPF convoy.

Blast inside car on Jammu-Srinagar highway; no casualties reported

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday asked the people of Arunachal Pradesh to vote for a 'chowkidaar' who would provide security to the country even as he attacked Opposition parties, saying they were "disheartened" by India's growth and success.

Kicking off his campaign here for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Arunachal, the prime minister said Arunachal is a "shield for the country with the people zealously guarding the border as sentinels".

Attacking the Congress, Modi said the grand old party is "synonymous with corruption" and has the habit to take people of the country for a ride.

"Whenever the country makes achievements, don't you feel happy? Everyone, irrespective of their social and financial status, regales at India's success stories. There are, however, some who feel disheartened by India's growth and success," the PM said.

"When India hit terrorists in their houses, what was the stand of opposition parties, you have all seen. Even when our scientists made achievements, they found excuses to belittle them," the PM said, urging the people to "punish" opposition parties in the upcoming elections.

He also thanked the people of the state for voting the double-engine government of the BJP to power at the Centre and the state.

"In the northeast, the lotus first bloomed in Arunachal. It is because of your support, the Centre has been able to bring about development in the state," he said.

Listing his government's achievements, the PM said the Centre has provided power connection to 50,000 families, gas connection to 40,000 mothers and sisters and built toilets for over 1 lakh families in the last five years.

"Our government has honoured your hopes, aspirations. This watchman was given the opportunity to bring Arunachal on the country's railway map after seven decades of Independence," he said

Referring to the Arun Prabha channel, launched recently, the PM said it will ensure that people across the country get to learn about Arunachal, its people, culture and festivals.

"Arunachal, which is set to hold Mopin festival soon, will be able to tell the world about its festival and culture through the recently launched Arun Prabha channel," he stated.

Election to Lok Sabha and Assembly will be held on April 11.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday asked the people of Arunachal Pradesh to vote for a 'chowkidaar' who would provide security to the country even as he attacked Opposition parties, saying they were "disheartened" by India's growth and success.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday asked the people of Arunachal Pradesh to vote for a 'chowkidaar' who would provide security to the country even as he attacked Opposition parties, saying they were "disheartened" by India's growth and success. Kicking off his campaign here for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Arunachal, the prime minister said Arunachal is a "shield for the country with the people zealously guarding the border as sentinels". Attacking the Congress, Modi said the grand old party is "synonymous with corruption" and has the habit to take people of the country for a ride. "Whenever the country makes achievements, don't you feel happy? Everyone, irrespective of their social and financial status, regales at India's success stories. There are, however, some who feel disheartened by India's growth and success," the PM said. "When India hit terrorists in their houses, what was the stand of opposition parties, you have all seen. Even when our scientists made achievements, they found excuses to belittle them," the PM said, urging the people to "punish" opposition parties in the upcoming elections. He also thanked the people of the state for voting the double-engine government of the BJP to power at the Centre and the state. "In the northeast, the lotus first bloomed in Arunachal. It is because of your support, the Centre has been able to bring about development in the state," he said. Listing his government's achievements, the PM said the Centre has provided power connection to 50,000 families, gas connection to 40,000 mothers and sisters and built toilets for over 1 lakh families in the last five years. "Our government has honoured your hopes, aspirations. This watchman was given the opportunity to bring Arunachal on the country's railway map after seven decades of Independence," he said Referring to the Arun Prabha channel, launched recently, the PM said it will ensure that people across the country get to learn about Arunachal, its people, culture and festivals. "Arunachal, which is set to hold Mopin festival soon, will be able to tell the world about its festival and culture through the recently launched Arun Prabha channel," he stated. Election to Lok Sabha and Assembly will be held on April 11.

PM Modi attacks opposition parties at Arunachal rally, says they are disheartened by India's growth

BJP president Amit Shah Saturday said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be fought only on the issue of who will lead the country after the polls.

Addressing a rally here before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-file-his-nomination-from-gandhinagar-on-saturday-206640">filing his nomination papers for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat</a>, Shah claimed that in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people saw the leader they had been waiting for since the last 70 years.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari and leaders of NDA allies, including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, SAD supremo Parkash Singh Badal and LJP founder Ram Vilas Paswan were present on the stage with Shah.

"During my visits to different places in the country, I found people chanting only Modi's name to lead the country," Shah said.

"This election will be fought only on the issue of who will lead the country... When I ask this question to people from Himachal to Kanyakumari and from Kamrup to Gandhinagar, I can only hear one sound -- 'Modi, Modi, Modi'" he said.

"In Narendra Modi, people have found the leader they had been waiting for since the last 70 years," Shah said.

He said it was his "good fortune" to file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar, which has been represented by LK Advani, Ataji (A B Vajpayee) and Purshottam Ganesh Mavlankar in the past.

The BJP chief's Lok Sabha poll debut from the Gandhinagar constituency will mark a generational shift in the party as this seat has been held by Advani since 1998.

The state BJP feels that Shah's nomination will energise the party in Gujarat and help it win all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

BJP president Amit Shah Saturday said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be fought only on the issue of who will lead the country after the polls. Addressing a rally here before filing his nomination papers for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat, Shah claimed that in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people saw the leader they had been waiting for since the last 70 years.

BJP president Amit Shah Saturday said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be fought only on the issue of who will lead the country after the polls. Addressing a rally here before filing his nomination papers for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat, Shah claimed that in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people saw the leader they had been waiting for since the last 70 years. Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari and leaders of NDA allies, including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, SAD supremo Parkash Singh Badal and LJP founder Ram Vilas Paswan were present on the stage with Shah. "During my visits to different places in the country, I found people chanting only Modi's name to lead the country," Shah said. "This election will be fought only on the issue of who will lead the country... When I ask this question to people from Himachal to Kanyakumari and from Kamrup to Gandhinagar, I can only hear one sound -- 'Modi, Modi, Modi'" he said. "In Narendra Modi, people have found the leader they had been waiting for since the last 70 years," Shah said. He said it was his "good fortune" to file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar, which has been represented by LK Advani, Ataji (A B Vajpayee) and Purshottam Ganesh Mavlankar in the past. The BJP chief's Lok Sabha poll debut from the Gandhinagar constituency will mark a generational shift in the party as this seat has been held by Advani since 1998. The state BJP feels that Shah's nomination will energise the party in Gujarat and help it win all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Lok Sabha polls will be fought on issue of who will lead country: Amit Shah

The second round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-wants-2nd-kartarpur-meet-rescheduled-after-increased-khalistani-role-206450">modalities of Kartarpur corridor</a> has been postponed after New Delhi raised the concern of Islamabad appointing Khalistani elements in the 10-member committee for managing the corridor.

The committee includes a known Khalistani, Gopal Singh Chawla, who is also believed to be a close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Other members of the committee include Bison Singh, Kuljit Singh, Tara Singh and Maninder Singh.

The committee, constituted by Pakistan's cabinet would facilitate Sikh pilgrims after the opening of Kartarpur corridor. The second round was supposed to happen on April 2 in Wagah, Pakistan.

New Delhi has also asked Pakistan to clarify its stand on the proposal it had put forward during the first meeting which took place on March 14 in Attari, India.

A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said that India has "shared concerns and sought clarifications on reports of controversial elements being appointed by Pakistan to a committee to be associated with the Kartarpur corridor."

"It has been conveyed that the next meeting on the modalities can be scheduled at an appropriate time after receiving Pakistan’s response," the release added. &nbsp;

India had called Pakistan's deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah on Friday morning and informed about its concern, especially on the security front.

Sources told WION, "It has already been conveyed to Pakistan that Kartarpur facility should not be misused for anti-India activities and we want substantive outcomes from the meet and not just for the sake of optics."

Explaining further sources said, "India has been strongly emphasising the need for foolproof security of pilgrims on Pakistan's soil and demanding commitment from Pakistan to insulate them from any anti-India propaganda or activity during their visit to the Gurudwara."

Pakistan has "regretted" the decision by New Delhi and called it "incomprehensible" but has not reacted on the issue of Khalistanis being appointed by the Imran Khan government in the Kartarpur committee.

India has proposed another meeting of technical level experts to take place in mid-April to resolve the outstanding issues on infrastructure development, especially on the alignment of the corridor.&nbsp;

The first round of talks happened on March 14 in Attari, India during which New Delhi had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people allowed every day. Islamabad said that they can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

New Delhi formally proposed Islamabad for the second India-Pak technical level meeting on Kartarpur corridor on April 15-16 to discuss all outstanding matters including those pertaining to hydrology.&nbsp;

The first-India Pak technical level meet took place on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-talks-india-pakistan-officials-meet-experts-to-survey-the-site-204303">March 19 at the zero-point</a> during which both sides did a survey of the site and discussed the alignment of the corridor.&nbsp;

The second round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the modalities of Kartarpur corridor has been postponed after New Delhi raised the concern of Islamabad appointing Khalistani elements in the 10-member committee for managing the corridor.

The second round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the modalities of Kartarpur corridor has been postponed after New Delhi raised the concern of Islamabad appointing Khalistani elements in the 10-member committee for managing the corridor. The committee includes a known Khalistani, Gopal Singh Chawla, who is also believed to be a close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Other members of the committee include Bison Singh, Kuljit Singh, Tara Singh and Maninder Singh. The committee, constituted by Pakistan's cabinet would facilitate Sikh pilgrims after the opening of Kartarpur corridor. The second round was supposed to happen on April 2 in Wagah, Pakistan. New Delhi has also asked Pakistan to clarify its stand on the proposal it had put forward during the first meeting which took place on March 14 in Attari, India. A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said that India has "shared concerns and sought clarifications on reports of controversial elements being appointed by Pakistan to a committee to be associated with the Kartarpur corridor." "It has been conveyed that the next meeting on the modalities can be scheduled at an appropriate time after receiving Pakistan’s response," the release added. India had called Pakistan's deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah on Friday morning and informed about its concern, especially on the security front. Sources told WION, "It has already been conveyed to Pakistan that Kartarpur facility should not be misused for anti-India activities and we want substantive outcomes from the meet and not just for the sake of optics." Explaining further sources said, "India has been strongly emphasising the need for foolproof security of pilgrims on Pakistan's soil and demanding commitment from Pakistan to insulate them from any anti-India propaganda or activity during their visit to the Gurudwara." Pakistan has "regretted" the decision by New Delhi and called it "incomprehensible" but has not reacted on the issue of Khalistanis being appointed by the Imran Khan government in the Kartarpur committee. India has proposed another meeting of technical level experts to take place in mid-April to resolve the outstanding issues on infrastructure development, especially on the alignment of the corridor. The first round of talks happened on March 14 in Attari, India during which New Delhi had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people allowed every day. Islamabad said that they can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit. New Delhi formally proposed Islamabad for the second India-Pak technical level meeting on Kartarpur corridor on April 15-16 to discuss all outstanding matters including those pertaining to hydrology. The first-India Pak technical level meet took place on March 19 at the zero-point during which both sides did a survey of the site and discussed the alignment of the corridor.

Kartarpur talks postponed as Pakistan's Khalistan support raises concerns 

Russia on Friday slammed Washington for leading the arms race even as it justified India's ASAT missile project saying ''India's test is in self-defence''.&nbsp;

''We noted the test of anti-satellite weapons conducted by India on March 27 and we have to state that this action of India has been largely the result of the substantially degraded situation in the field of arms control,'' Russia said in a statement.&nbsp;

Russia has repeatedly warned that the destructive actions of the United States to undermine the entire architecture of international security and strategic stability, including unilateral and unlimited development of the US global anti-missile defence systems, as well as the reluctance to abandon plans for the weaponization of outer space, the statement added.&nbsp;

''We urge Washington to take a responsible stand, come to senses and drop the insane, and most importantly - absolutely unrealizable - the idea of universal military domination. It is still possible to stop the arms race unfolding in various regions of the world,'' the statement further said.&nbsp;

Russia, for its part, intends to continue to make every necessary effort to prevent an arms race in outer space.&nbsp;

Russia on Friday slammed Washington for leading the arms race even as it justified India's ASAT missile project saying ''India's test is in self-defence''. ''We noted the test of anti-satellite weapons conducted by India on March 27 and we have to state that this action of India has been largely the result of the substantially degraded situation in the field of arms control,'' Russia said in a statement.

Russia on Friday slammed Washington for leading the arms race even as it justified India's ASAT missile project saying ''India's test is in self-defence''. ''We noted the test of anti-satellite weapons conducted by India on March 27 and we have to state that this action of India has been largely the result of the substantially degraded situation in the field of arms control,'' Russia said in a statement. Russia has repeatedly warned that the destructive actions of the United States to undermine the entire architecture of international security and strategic stability, including unilateral and unlimited development of the US global anti-missile defence systems, as well as the reluctance to abandon plans for the weaponization of outer space, the statement added. ''We urge Washington to take a responsible stand, come to senses and drop the insane, and most importantly - absolutely unrealizable - the idea of universal military domination. It is still possible to stop the arms race unfolding in various regions of the world,'' the statement further said. Russia, for its part, intends to continue to make every necessary effort to prevent an arms race in outer space.

Russia blames US for leading arms race, says India's ASAT test in 'self-defence' 

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district.&nbsp;

Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist.&nbsp;

They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment.

Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot.

Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists.&nbsp;

The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.&nbsp;

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area. After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district. Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist. They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment. Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot. Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists. The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.

J&K: Security forces gun down two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists near Srinagar

Actor Urmila Matondkar, who recently took a political plunge and joined the Congress party, said that coming in public light is the most challenging part of her new assignment.

"Having been almost a reclusive star to coming in such a huge focus, that's going to be a bit of a challenge, but I think that goes with the territory," Urmila told WION on Thursday.

Today, the party announced that the actor will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Mumbai North constituency.

Urmila joined the Congress on Wednesday after meeting party chief Rahul Gandhi at his residence. Gandhi welcomed her in the party fold and wished her the best.

Talking about why she chose Congress, Urmila told WION, "There is so much going on that the people seem to have been lost in the translation. I think that's the time when you need to step out and tell them what this country stands for, where we were headed and where we have reached."

I found my ideology closest to the Congress party and therefore I've entered Congress, she said.

When asked about why Congress always finds faults in Centre's policies, Urmila said, "I don't think every party is going to do everything right. There are going to be challenges and constant struggle... we are a huge country with huge variations in thoughts and culture... it is going to be challenging all the time. But what I think is as important is the atmosphere of the country. What the country is standing for, what it is feeling. Are we feeling safe? No, we are not. Why there are constant question about what I can say, eat, my life, everything. That is not fine."

She had earlier said that the Congress party has participated in the freedom struggle and it stood for freedom.

Actor Urmila Matondkar, who recently took a political plunge and joined the Congress party, said that coming in public light is the most challenging part of her new assignment.

Actor Urmila Matondkar, who recently took a political plunge and joined the Congress party, said that coming in public light is the most challenging part of her new assignment. "Having been almost a reclusive star to coming in such a huge focus, that's going to be a bit of a challenge, but I think that goes with the territory," Urmila told WION on Thursday. Today, the party announced that the actor will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Mumbai North constituency. Urmila joined the Congress on Wednesday after meeting party chief Rahul Gandhi at his residence. Gandhi welcomed her in the party fold and wished her the best. Talking about why she chose Congress, Urmila told WION, "There is so much going on that the people seem to have been lost in the translation. I think that's the time when you need to step out and tell them what this country stands for, where we were headed and where we have reached." I found my ideology closest to the Congress party and therefore I've entered Congress, she said. When asked about why Congress always finds faults in Centre's policies, Urmila said, "I don't think every party is going to do everything right. There are going to be challenges and constant struggle... we are a huge country with huge variations in thoughts and culture... it is going to be challenging all the time. But what I think is as important is the atmosphere of the country. What the country is standing for, what it is feeling. Are we feeling safe? No, we are not. Why there are constant question about what I can say, eat, my life, everything. That is not fine." She had earlier said that the Congress party has participated in the freedom struggle and it stood for freedom.

Coming in such a huge focus challenging: Urmila Matondkar to WION as Congress fields her from Mumbai North

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal Friday met members of the party's Punjab unit and asked them to dispel rumours of any alliance with the Congress in the state for the Lok Sabha polls, sources said.

Kejriwal held the meeting at his residence with AAP Punjab chief Bhagwant Mann, eight of the 13 Lok Sabha candidates declared by the party and the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Harpal Singh Cheema.

"The meeting was to dispel rumours surrounding an alliance with the Congress in Punjab and to clarify that there would be no such alliance between the AAP and the Congress," party sources said.

During the meeting, the names of the five remaining candidates were discussed along with the campaign strategy, the sources said.

The eight names announced by AAP so far include Justice Zora Singh (retd) from Jalandhar, Baljinder Singh Chaundha from Fatehgarh Sahib and Peter Masih Cheeda from Gurdaspur, Bhagwant Mann from Sangrur, Ravjot Singh from Hoshiarpur, Sadhu Singh from Faridkot, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal from Amritsar and Narinder Singh Shergill from Anandpur Sahib.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leadership said the candidates for the remaining constituencies, including Bathinda, Ferozepur, Ludhiana, Khadoor Sahib and Patiala, would be announced soon.

Polling will be held in Punjab in a single phase on May 19 and results will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal Friday met members of the party's Punjab unit and asked them to dispel rumours of any alliance with the Congress in the state for the Lok Sabha polls, sources said.

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal Friday met members of the party's Punjab unit and asked them to dispel rumours of any alliance with the Congress in the state for the Lok Sabha polls, sources said. Kejriwal held the meeting at his residence with AAP Punjab chief Bhagwant Mann, eight of the 13 Lok Sabha candidates declared by the party and the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Harpal Singh Cheema. "The meeting was to dispel rumours surrounding an alliance with the Congress in Punjab and to clarify that there would be no such alliance between the AAP and the Congress," party sources said. During the meeting, the names of the five remaining candidates were discussed along with the campaign strategy, the sources said. The eight names announced by AAP so far include Justice Zora Singh (retd) from Jalandhar, Baljinder Singh Chaundha from Fatehgarh Sahib and Peter Masih Cheeda from Gurdaspur, Bhagwant Mann from Sangrur, Ravjot Singh from Hoshiarpur, Sadhu Singh from Faridkot, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal from Amritsar and Narinder Singh Shergill from Anandpur Sahib. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leadership said the candidates for the remaining constituencies, including Bathinda, Ferozepur, Ludhiana, Khadoor Sahib and Patiala, would be announced soon. Polling will be held in Punjab in a single phase on May 19 and results will be announced on May 23.

Kejriwal asks Punjab party leaders to dispel rumours of alliance with Congress

Dubbed an "outsider" by the Opposition, BJP MP Hema Malini has said she has a "divine connection" with Mathura, the city of Lord Krishna, and has no intention of becoming a minister.

The actor-turned-politician, who has been fielded once again by the BJP from the Mathura constituency, filed her nomination papers for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections earlier this week.

The 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) of Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal has said that Mathura will witness an "outsider vs Brijwasi" battle as Hema Malini lives in Mumbai.

"Yes, I have a house in Mumbai. What is the problem with that? I have a house here also and I am a Virndavanwasi," Hema Malini told PTI in an exclusive interview.

"I am so involved with the city and I feel some divine connection with this city. I have been playing Radha and Meera throughout my life and I was in a temple only when my candidature was announced," she said.

The BJP MP said she also has to fulfil her professional commitments as an actor and a danseuse.

"In the last five years I have come here more than 250 times. People should understand that I am not just an MP and I have to use my talent as an actor and a danseuse as well. There is no need for me to be here 24 hours. I come and get things done in 10 days," Hema Malini said.

"I know that I can't satisfy the entire city, which is so huge, but I have done my work with utmost sincerity and will continue to do so in future as well," she said. 
Hema Malini said it pained her when people questioned her work in the last five years.

"I really feel hurt when someone asks 'apne kya kaam kiya?' (what work did you do). The first two years were difficult as I could not communicate (with the people). But in the last two years I was able to get things done with the support of the Centre and the state government," she said.

"Many projects have been sanctioned under Brij Teerth Vikas Parishad and I am working to revive the old heritage of Brij Mandal," she said, adding that she needed another five years for that.

"This is why I have decided to stay back," she said.

Despite being a star campaigner of the ruling BJP, the BJP MP said she was not eyeing a ministerial berth at the Centre and wants to focus on Mathura only.

"I am not a hardcore politician and I want to limit myself to Mathura only. I am asked many times if I want to become a minister and it sounds so strange. Being a minister is a full-time responsibility," Hema Malini said.

"Women ministers in Modiji's cabinet have done extremely well and I am proud of them, but this is not a competition," she said.

Rejecting speculation about differences in the BJP's local unit, Hema Malini said everyone is working together to ensure a second term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"There is no infighting and my party workers have a lot of love and respect for me. They are supporting me in a big way and I am 100 per cent sure of winning with a bigger margin this time," she said.

Asked about her announcement, which she made after filing her nomination papers, that this election will be her last, Hema Malini said as of now, she was focussing on making the most of the next five years.

"We will talk about the future after five years. Let's see how much energy I will have left by then," she said.

Asked about the possibility of her family members campaigning for her, she said, "I can't say yet whether Dharamji will come. I wanted Esha to come but she is expecting a baby," she said.

Hema Malini had defeated RLD's sitting MP Jayant Chaudhary in 2014 by a huge margin of 3,30,743 votes in 2014.

This year, she is pitted against RLD's Kunwar Narendra Singh.

Voting will be held in Mathura in the second round of seven-phase Lok Sabha polls on April 18. Results will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Dubbed an "outsider" by the Opposition, BJP MP Hema Malini has said she has a "divine connection" with Mathura, the city of Lord Krishna, and has no intention of becoming a minister.

Dubbed an "outsider" by the Opposition, BJP MP Hema Malini has said she has a "divine connection" with Mathura, the city of Lord Krishna, and has no intention of becoming a minister. The actor-turned-politician, who has been fielded once again by the BJP from the Mathura constituency, filed her nomination papers for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections earlier this week. The 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) of Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal has said that Mathura will witness an "outsider vs Brijwasi" battle as Hema Malini lives in Mumbai. "Yes, I have a house in Mumbai. What is the problem with that? I have a house here also and I am a Virndavanwasi," Hema Malini told PTI in an exclusive interview. "I am so involved with the city and I feel some divine connection with this city. I have been playing Radha and Meera throughout my life and I was in a temple only when my candidature was announced," she said. The BJP MP said she also has to fulfil her professional commitments as an actor and a danseuse. "In the last five years I have come here more than 250 times. People should understand that I am not just an MP and I have to use my talent as an actor and a danseuse as well. There is no need for me to be here 24 hours. I come and get things done in 10 days," Hema Malini said. "I know that I can't satisfy the entire city, which is so huge, but I have done my work with utmost sincerity and will continue to do so in future as well," she said. Hema Malini said it pained her when people questioned her work in the last five years. "I really feel hurt when someone asks 'apne kya kaam kiya?' (what work did you do). The first two years were difficult as I could not communicate (with the people). But in the last two years I was able to get things done with the support of the Centre and the state government," she said. "Many projects have been sanctioned under Brij Teerth Vikas Parishad and I am working to revive the old heritage of Brij Mandal," she said, adding that she needed another five years for that. "This is why I have decided to stay back," she said. Despite being a star campaigner of the ruling BJP, the BJP MP said she was not eyeing a ministerial berth at the Centre and wants to focus on Mathura only. "I am not a hardcore politician and I want to limit myself to Mathura only. I am asked many times if I want to become a minister and it sounds so strange. Being a minister is a full-time responsibility," Hema Malini said. "Women ministers in Modiji's cabinet have done extremely well and I am proud of them, but this is not a competition," she said. Rejecting speculation about differences in the BJP's local unit, Hema Malini said everyone is working together to ensure a second term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "There is no infighting and my party workers have a lot of love and respect for me. They are supporting me in a big way and I am 100 per cent sure of winning with a bigger margin this time," she said. Asked about her announcement, which she made after filing her nomination papers, that this election will be her last, Hema Malini said as of now, she was focussing on making the most of the next five years. "We will talk about the future after five years. Let's see how much energy I will have left by then," she said. Asked about the possibility of her family members campaigning for her, she said, "I can't say yet whether Dharamji will come. I wanted Esha to come but she is expecting a baby," she said. Hema Malini had defeated RLD's sitting MP Jayant Chaudhary in 2014 by a huge margin of 3,30,743 votes in 2014. This year, she is pitted against RLD's Kunwar Narendra Singh. Voting will be held in Mathura in the second round of seven-phase Lok Sabha polls on April 18. Results will be announced on May 23.

I share 'divine connection' with Mathura: Hema Malini

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with the security forces on Friday morning in Nowgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, said police.

According to the police, both the terrorists were identified as Ali and Idrees, affiliated to Jaish-E-Mohammad (JeM), the banned terrorist organisation.

Police said that they were wanted by law for their complicity in a series of terror crimes including the attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities.

"Several terror crime cases were registered against both terrorists," said the police.

Security forces have recovered arms and ammunition including rifles from the encounter site.

Citizens have been requested not to get inside the encounter zone until the area is completely cleared off all explosive materials.

Police and security forces in the morning undertook a search operation and cordoned the area to trace terrorists in Sutsoo Kalan of Nowgam in the outskirts of Srinagar, based on credible inputs.

Meanwhile, the security forces were fired upon by the hidden terrorists. The security forces retaliated in which both the terrorists were killed.

Further investigation is underway.&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with the security forces on Friday morning in Nowgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, said police. According to the police, both the terrorists were identified as Ali and Idrees, affiliated to Jaish-E-Mohammad (JeM), the banned terrorist organisation.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with the security forces on Friday morning in Nowgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, said police. According to the police, both the terrorists were identified as Ali and Idrees, affiliated to Jaish-E-Mohammad (JeM), the banned terrorist organisation. Police said that they were wanted by law for their complicity in a series of terror crimes including the attack on security establishments and civilian atrocities. "Several terror crime cases were registered against both terrorists," said the police. Security forces have recovered arms and ammunition including rifles from the encounter site. Citizens have been requested not to get inside the encounter zone until the area is completely cleared off all explosive materials. Police and security forces in the morning undertook a search operation and cordoned the area to trace terrorists in Sutsoo Kalan of Nowgam in the outskirts of Srinagar, based on credible inputs. Meanwhile, the security forces were fired upon by the hidden terrorists. The security forces retaliated in which both the terrorists were killed. Further investigation is underway.

Jammu and Kashmir: 2 terrorist killed in Nowgam encounter

India has asked the United Nations security council to strongly take up lack of implementations of sanctions under its 1257 committee even as some countries acting as "apologist for terrorist" continue to justify their inaction on the issue of terror.&nbsp;

The development comes against the backdrop of lack of implementation of UN sanctions by Pakistan. 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, who is on the UN terror list, continues to roam freely in the country despite being on the sanctions list.

India's permanent representative Syed Akbaruddin to UN speaking at the UNSC during adoption of a resolution on Preventing and Combating the Financing of Terrorism said, "Many Council resolutions, including the various sanctions measures under the 1267 and 1988 sanctions regimes, where asset freeze is a core part of states obligations call for regular reporting under these measures. A cursory look at the publicly available information on the website would reveal that the implementation reports on these sanctions measures have not been updated for years and in some cases more than a decade."

"Non-compliance of crucial sanctions measures in case of UN proscribed terrorists and entities renders all of us, Member States, at a high risk of facing challenges from these terrorist organizations who are well funded and armed despite international measures," Akbaruddin added.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
New milestone adopted by <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> to Counter Terrorist Financing. 
 
Unfortunately, States who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions &amp; inaction too - <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaUNNewYork</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/OeupspHS38">https://t.co/OeupspHS38</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/zerotoleranceforTerror?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#zerotoleranceforTerror</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoMoneyforTerror?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoMoneyforTerror</a> <a href="https://t.co/vRNHdi86ku">pic.twitter.com/vRNHdi86ku</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1111439388288782336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A report submitted by the UNSC 1267 sanctions monitoring team had on Jan 15, 2019, recommended that committee members write to member states in this regard. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, without taking the name of Pakistan, Indian Envoy to UN said certain countries will justify inaction on the issues of terror.&nbsp;

He said, " the unfortunate reality is that States who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions and inaction too".

Pakistan on Wednesday called India to give more evidence regarding Jaish-e-Mohammed's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack and said the locations provided by New Delhi in the Pulwama dossier have no terror camps. 
&nbsp;

India has asked the United Nations security council to strongly take up lack of implementations of sanctions under its 1257 committee even as some countries acting as "apologist for terrorist" continue to justify their inaction on the issue of terror.

India has asked the United Nations security council to strongly take up lack of implementations of sanctions under its 1257 committee even as some countries acting as "apologist for terrorist" continue to justify their inaction on the issue of terror. The development comes against the backdrop of lack of implementation of UN sanctions by Pakistan. 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, who is on the UN terror list, continues to roam freely in the country despite being on the sanctions list. India's permanent representative Syed Akbaruddin to UN speaking at the UNSC during adoption of a resolution on Preventing and Combating the Financing of Terrorism said, "Many Council resolutions, including the various sanctions measures under the 1267 and 1988 sanctions regimes, where asset freeze is a core part of states obligations call for regular reporting under these measures. A cursory look at the publicly available information on the website would reveal that the implementation reports on these sanctions measures have not been updated for years and in some cases more than a decade." "Non-compliance of crucial sanctions measures in case of UN proscribed terrorists and entities renders all of us, Member States, at a high risk of facing challenges from these terrorist organizations who are well funded and armed despite international measures," Akbaruddin added. New milestone adopted by @UN to Counter Terrorist Financing. Unfortunately, States who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions & inaction too - @IndiaUNNewYork https://t.co/OeupspHS38#zerotoleranceforTerror#NoMoneyforTerror pic.twitter.com/vRNHdi86ku — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) March 29, 2019 × A report submitted by the UNSC 1267 sanctions monitoring team had on Jan 15, 2019, recommended that committee members write to member states in this regard. Meanwhile, without taking the name of Pakistan, Indian Envoy to UN said certain countries will justify inaction on the issues of terror. He said, " the unfortunate reality is that States who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions and inaction too". Pakistan on Wednesday called India to give more evidence regarding Jaish-e-Mohammed's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack and said the locations provided by New Delhi in the Pulwama dossier have no terror camps.

India urges UNSC to take up lack of implementation of sanctions, calls out Pak's inaction on terror   

When a crocodile was found under a cot in Gujarat village

The Election Commission of India on Friday stated that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ec-will-examine-if-pm-modis-address-to-nation-violated-model-code-of-conduct-206148">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Mission Shakti" address</a> didn't violate Model Code of Conduct (MCC) as public broadcasters were used.&nbsp;

"Committee has reached to the conclusion that MCC provision regarding misuse of official mass media as contained in Para (IV) of Part VII of MCC isn't attracted in the case," the poll body stated today.&nbsp;

The EC took the decision based on the report of a committee of officers which found that the prime minister did not violate the provision of 'party in power' in the poll code, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Election Commission says PM Modi's "Mission Shakti" speech didn't violate Model Code of Conduct (MCC); states, "Committee has reached to conclusion that MCC provision regarding misuse of official mass media as contained in Para (IV) of Part VII of MCC isn't attracted in the case" <a href="https://t.co/fjDZRnvsMc">pic.twitter.com/fjDZRnvsMc</a>
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Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation after the successful testing of A-SAT missile on Wednesday. After much clamour from the opposition parties, the Election Commission of India directed a Committee of Officers to examine the matter immediately and ascertain if the speech violated the Model Code of Conduct as alleged by the opposition.

India shot down one of its satellites in space on Wednesday with an anti-satellite missile to demonstrate this complex capability, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced, making it only the fourth country to have used such a weapon.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Friday stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Mission Shakti" address didn't violate Model Code of Conduct (MCC) as public broadcasters were used.

The Election Commission of India on Friday stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Mission Shakti" address didn't violate Model Code of Conduct (MCC) as public broadcasters were used. "Committee has reached to the conclusion that MCC provision regarding misuse of official mass media as contained in Para (IV) of Part VII of MCC isn't attracted in the case," the poll body stated today. The EC took the decision based on the report of a committee of officers which found that the prime minister did not violate the provision of 'party in power' in the poll code, news agency PTI reported. Election Commission says PM Modi's "Mission Shakti" speech didn't violate Model Code of Conduct (MCC); states, "Committee has reached to conclusion that MCC provision regarding misuse of official mass media as contained in Para (IV) of Part VII of MCC isn't attracted in the case" pic.twitter.com/fjDZRnvsMc — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2019 × Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation after the successful testing of A-SAT missile on Wednesday. After much clamour from the opposition parties, the Election Commission of India directed a Committee of Officers to examine the matter immediately and ascertain if the speech violated the Model Code of Conduct as alleged by the opposition. India shot down one of its satellites in space on Wednesday with an anti-satellite missile to demonstrate this complex capability, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced, making it only the fourth country to have used such a weapon. (With inputs from PTI)

PM's 'Mission Shakti' address does not violate Model Code of Conduct: Election Commission

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-nishad-party-and-janvadi-party-socialist-join-sp-bsp-rld-alliance-in-uttar-pradesh-205715">alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh</a>. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance.&nbsp;

"Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections.&nbsp;

"So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

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The development came just a few days after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.&nbsp;

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance.

Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad on Friday called off the alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh. Nishad noted that his party workers and the core committee were upset with the alliance. "Akhilesh Yadav had said he'll make an announcement on seats for our party. But they didn't put our name on poster/letter or anything. My party workers, authorities, core committee were upset," Nishad told media adding that his party is now free to explore other option or to even go solo in the ensuing general elections. "So the Nishad party has taken a decision today that we are not with the 'gathbandhan', we are free, can fight elections independently and can look for other options as well. The party is free now," the party chief noted. Later in the day, Nishad was spotted meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad meets Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow pic.twitter.com/MNvdVzOiXQ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 29, 2019 × The development came just a few days after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance. Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.

Lok Sabha polls: Nishad Party quits alliance with SP, BSP in Uttar Pradesh

Eight people were killed on Friday morning when a privately operated bus rammed into a stationary truck on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida, officials said.

Another 20 people on board the bus were injured and rushed to a private hospital for treatment, police said.

Officials in Lucknow said that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed Gautam Buddh Nagar police and administration chiefs to expedite assistance to the victims.

"The bus was on its way to Noida from Agra. The incident took place under Rabupura police station limits around 5 am. The bus belongs to Auraiya depot. Eight people were killed and 20 injured in the incident," police said in a statement.

Police personnel were present at the site of the accident and the victims were rushed to the nearby Kailash Hospital in Jewar, it said.

An official spokesperson in Lucknow said, "The chief minister has taken cognisance of the bus accident in Greater Noida where eight passengers have died."

"He has directed the district administration and the police to provide all assistance. The district magistrate and the senior superintendent of police are reaching the accident site," the official said.

Eight people were killed on Friday morning when a privately operated bus rammed into a stationary truck on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida, officials said.

Eight people were killed on Friday morning when a privately operated bus rammed into a stationary truck on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida, officials said. Another 20 people on board the bus were injured and rushed to a private hospital for treatment, police said. Officials in Lucknow said that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed Gautam Buddh Nagar police and administration chiefs to expedite assistance to the victims. "The bus was on its way to Noida from Agra. The incident took place under Rabupura police station limits around 5 am. The bus belongs to Auraiya depot. Eight people were killed and 20 injured in the incident," police said in a statement. Police personnel were present at the site of the accident and the victims were rushed to the nearby Kailash Hospital in Jewar, it said. An official spokesperson in Lucknow said, "The chief minister has taken cognisance of the bus accident in Greater Noida where eight passengers have died." "He has directed the district administration and the police to provide all assistance. The district magistrate and the senior superintendent of police are reaching the accident site," the official said.

8 killed as bus rams into truck on Yamuna Expressway in UP's Greater Noida

In a one-to-one conversation with students in Ayodhya, Congress general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-priyanka-fight-elections-from-varanasi-206337">secretary Priyanka Gandhi </a>revealed a lot about her personal life which continues to be hidden from the media and public.&nbsp;

The convention allowed students to ask random question to Priyanka. On being asked whether she knows how to cook, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-renews-agrarian-pitch-for-congress-in-lok-sabha-elections-206080">Priyanka replied </a>that she is a good cook and that she has been cooking from the age of 15. She told the students that she had&nbsp;learned Italian cooking from her grandmother and that she is good at cooking both Indian and Thai food.

Priyanka also answered questions on gender and reforms. She said: "I often tell my daughter to dress properly keeping in mind the law and order of the city, my daughter often shoots back says that tell me what to wear.”&nbsp;

She said that what makes her happy was that her daughter’s response accrues from feminist values she has inculcated in her. Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the issue of Romeo squads which have become a tool to harass young couples in the state.&nbsp;

She said, "I’m totally against Romeo squads and it cannot be allowed.” Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the failed experiment of Congress president Rahul Gandhi to introduce internal elections in the frontal organization.&nbsp;

“Rahul’s idea was transformative. The intention was to open doors to young people who come from different backgrounds, but many people opposed this transformative process and did not allow the new process to function. They were afraid of change,” said Priyanka.&nbsp;

This is the first time Priyanka Gandhi has spoken on the issue of internal elections in the frontal organisations of the Congress. The fact that she accepted a section of leadership derailed the process&nbsp;shows that she was on the same page as&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi on the&nbsp;idea.

Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the issue of Congress manifesto and said that people do not take manifestos very seriously whereas it is the most important document of the electoral process.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi also attacked Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for his comment on NYAY and its financial viability.&nbsp;

She said, "Nitin Gadkari should answer as to where the government got the money to wave off debt of the business community. She was equally aggressive on the question of equating Gandhi’s with royalty.&nbsp;

She retorted saying that it was her family which did away with Privy Purse in 1970s. Privy Purse was money provided to states till 1971 for maintenance of their respective estates. It was part of the amalgamation process after India gained independence. Indira Gandhi had abolished the purse as the money was being paid from the Indian exchequer.&nbsp;

The Congress general secretary from eastern Uttar Pradesh attacked Prime Minister Modi's statement that Pakistan will celebrate if Congress wins. She said, "Biryani khane to PM gaye the."(PM had gone to eat&nbsp;biryani in Pakistan).&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi’s tour concluded on Friday evening with a visit to Hanumangarhi.

In a one-to-one conversation with students in Ayodhya, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi revealed a lot about her personal life which continues to be hidden from the media and public.

In a one-to-one conversation with students in Ayodhya, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi revealed a lot about her personal life which continues to be hidden from the media and public. The convention allowed students to ask random question to Priyanka. On being asked whether she knows how to cook, Priyanka replied that she is a good cook and that she has been cooking from the age of 15. She told the students that she had learned Italian cooking from her grandmother and that she is good at cooking both Indian and Thai food. Priyanka also answered questions on gender and reforms. She said: "I often tell my daughter to dress properly keeping in mind the law and order of the city, my daughter often shoots back says that tell me what to wear.” She said that what makes her happy was that her daughter’s response accrues from feminist values she has inculcated in her. Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the issue of Romeo squads which have become a tool to harass young couples in the state. She said, "I’m totally against Romeo squads and it cannot be allowed.” Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the failed experiment of Congress president Rahul Gandhi to introduce internal elections in the frontal organization. “Rahul’s idea was transformative. The intention was to open doors to young people who come from different backgrounds, but many people opposed this transformative process and did not allow the new process to function. They were afraid of change,” said Priyanka. This is the first time Priyanka Gandhi has spoken on the issue of internal elections in the frontal organisations of the Congress. The fact that she accepted a section of leadership derailed the process shows that she was on the same page as Rahul Gandhi on the idea. Priyanka Gandhi also spoke on the issue of Congress manifesto and said that people do not take manifestos very seriously whereas it is the most important document of the electoral process. Priyanka Gandhi also attacked Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for his comment on NYAY and its financial viability. She said, "Nitin Gadkari should answer as to where the government got the money to wave off debt of the business community. She was equally aggressive on the question of equating Gandhi’s with royalty. She retorted saying that it was her family which did away with Privy Purse in 1970s. Privy Purse was money provided to states till 1971 for maintenance of their respective estates. It was part of the amalgamation process after India gained independence. Indira Gandhi had abolished the purse as the money was being paid from the Indian exchequer. The Congress general secretary from eastern Uttar Pradesh attacked Prime Minister Modi's statement that Pakistan will celebrate if Congress wins. She said, "Biryani khane to PM gaye the."(PM had gone to eat biryani in Pakistan). Priyanka Gandhi’s tour concluded on Friday evening with a visit to Hanumangarhi.

Rahul's idea to hold internal elections in frontal organisation was opposed from within: Priyanka

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections.&nbsp;

WION: You were the party president in the last election. You are the Home Minister in this election. At that time, your decision proved as a turning point. You declared Modi ji a candidate for the post of Prime Minister. What is the difference between the two elections?

Rajnath Singh: This time the BJP will win more seats as compared to 2014 because for the first time people got to know Modi as a CM. Now people know him as a Prime Minister. Narendra Bhai has increased the trust of people. And people want the country's leadership to be in strong hands.

WION: Modi wave was there last time. This time most people are saying that the wave is not there.

Rajnath Singh: Last time everyone was not aware. But many people had the information ... so people gave us the opportunity. Now after 5 years Modi ji fulfilled the expectations of the people, so this time our seats will increase.

WION: Can you say that your achievement was such that the voters will not look at any other side this time?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: Economically, India registered the fastest growth in 5 years. The growth rate of GDP increased. Bank accounts for the poor were opened by the Prime Minister's Jandhana Yojana. The poor were insured. Electricity connections, water connections and gas are being given in every house.

WION: Political pundits say that there is no vote in the name of development in the country but on other issues, your comments?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: &nbsp;I do not agree with this. People don't vote on miracles or on charisma. People see which government worries about public interest. Which government is about to work and can honour the dignity of the country.

WION: Do you think Balakot air strikes will prove as a turning point?

Rajnath Singh: I would not want to call the airstrikes as a turning point in terms of the election, however, it has instilled trust. It shows that our Prime Minister is decisive, the one who takes decisions and isn't afraid. People can see that the country is in safe hands, people have come about to trust.&nbsp;

WION: Pakistan has said that the information given in the dossier to them is not complete. Pakistan is also seeking evidence, the people of our own country, the opposition demands evidence.

Rajnath Singh: It is a matter of great irony that Pakistan is also seeking evidence and even those who are living here are also demanding evidence. I understand that in this regard the public will decide what to do.

I would like to say that no matter how many dossiers we give to Pakistan or all the evidence, they always behave like this. I would like to say that India is not weak. Pakistan will have to change its ways and crack down on terrorism and terror emanating from its soil, if it is not able to do the same on its own, ask us, India will help achieve the same.&nbsp;

WION: Did you ever think that after Balakot we should assume that now it is the end of this story or anything else can happen after this?

Rajnath Singh: I would like to tell you that India has never been an expansionist. India has never invaded any country in the world. But if you hurt the self-esteem, then India will not sit quietly. India responds.

WION: You would have first-hand information on the number of those killed in Balakot. Do we have any evidence, if yes, then when are we going to go public with it?&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh: There is no reason to doubt the bravery and valour of our Army. The operation was done on the basis of credible intelligence input, there is no doubt about this operation. If it wasn't a successful strike, then Pakistan would have not been bothered but Pakistan is getting disturbed because of this strike, we also have people of some political parties, they are having trouble too.

WION: But did we try to find out how much damage has happened? This is indeed a huge achievement

Rajnath Singh: Let's see, generally no country can tell what was the damage, how many people killed, no country in the world. Everything will be exposed on time, and I want to say that if nothing had happened then why was Pakistan so disturbed?

WION: But you must have calculated your risk that it is very risky to enter a country and attack there. Pakistan, after all, is also nuclear-armed.

Rajnath Singh: See, if it comes on self-esteem, then the person does not even calculate the risk. It is not necessary to evaluate what decision was take. Whatever strikes took place, it was an outcome of well-intentioned and calculated thought. There was no other option.&nbsp;

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections.

As the Lok Sabha polls draw closer, WION's Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary spoke to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on a range of issues - from Balakot air strikes to the Bharatiya Janata Party's poll preparedness ahead of the general elections. WION: You were the party president in the last election. You are the Home Minister in this election. At that time, your decision proved as a turning point. You declared Modi ji a candidate for the post of Prime Minister. What is the difference between the two elections? Rajnath Singh: This time the BJP will win more seats as compared to 2014 because for the first time people got to know Modi as a CM. Now people know him as a Prime Minister. Narendra Bhai has increased the trust of people. And people want the country's leadership to be in strong hands. WION: Modi wave was there last time. This time most people are saying that the wave is not there. Rajnath Singh: Last time everyone was not aware. But many people had the information ... so people gave us the opportunity. Now after 5 years Modi ji fulfilled the expectations of the people, so this time our seats will increase. WION: Can you say that your achievement was such that the voters will not look at any other side this time? Rajnath Singh: Economically, India registered the fastest growth in 5 years. The growth rate of GDP increased. Bank accounts for the poor were opened by the Prime Minister's Jandhana Yojana. The poor were insured. Electricity connections, water connections and gas are being given in every house. WION: Political pundits say that there is no vote in the name of development in the country but on other issues, your comments? Rajnath Singh: I do not agree with this. People don't vote on miracles or on charisma. People see which government worries about public interest. Which government is about to work and can honour the dignity of the country. WION: Do you think Balakot air strikes will prove as a turning point? Rajnath Singh: I would not want to call the airstrikes as a turning point in terms of the election, however, it has instilled trust. It shows that our Prime Minister is decisive, the one who takes decisions and isn't afraid. People can see that the country is in safe hands, people have come about to trust. WION: Pakistan has said that the information given in the dossier to them is not complete. Pakistan is also seeking evidence, the people of our own country, the opposition demands evidence. Rajnath Singh: It is a matter of great irony that Pakistan is also seeking evidence and even those who are living here are also demanding evidence. I understand that in this regard the public will decide what to do. I would like to say that no matter how many dossiers we give to Pakistan or all the evidence, they always behave like this. I would like to say that India is not weak. Pakistan will have to change its ways and crack down on terrorism and terror emanating from its soil, if it is not able to do the same on its own, ask us, India will help achieve the same. WION: Did you ever think that after Balakot we should assume that now it is the end of this story or anything else can happen after this? Rajnath Singh: I would like to tell you that India has never been an expansionist. India has never invaded any country in the world. But if you hurt the self-esteem, then India will not sit quietly. India responds. WION: You would have first-hand information on the number of those killed in Balakot. Do we have any evidence, if yes, then when are we going to go public with it? Rajnath Singh: There is no reason to doubt the bravery and valour of our Army. The operation was done on the basis of credible intelligence input, there is no doubt about this operation. If it wasn't a successful strike, then Pakistan would have not been bothered but Pakistan is getting disturbed because of this strike, we also have people of some political parties, they are having trouble too. WION: But did we try to find out how much damage has happened? This is indeed a huge achievement Rajnath Singh: Let's see, generally no country can tell what was the damage, how many people killed, no country in the world. Everything will be exposed on time, and I want to say that if nothing had happened then why was Pakistan so disturbed? WION: But you must have calculated your risk that it is very risky to enter a country and attack there. Pakistan, after all, is also nuclear-armed. Rajnath Singh: See, if it comes on self-esteem, then the person does not even calculate the risk. It is not necessary to evaluate what decision was take. Whatever strikes took place, it was an outcome of well-intentioned and calculated thought. There was no other option.

Balakot air strikes instilled faith in people, showed nation is in safe hands: Rajnath Singh to WION

President Donald Trump should delay his decision to terminate the preferential trade status granted to India till the general elections in the country are over, several influential US lawmakers, including Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard, said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Trump this month informed the US Congress about his intent to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary developing country under Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that facilitates duty-free import of certain products from underdeveloped countries to help grow their economies.

Under the United States GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by the Congress. India was the largest beneficiary of the programme in 2017 with USD 5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status, according to a Congressional Research Service report in January.

"My hope is that we can delay, the termination of these GSP preferences until after the elections in India so that we can have a non-political conversation that is very focused on how we collectively can move forward together," Gabbard, the first Hindu US lawmaker, said at a conference on "The US-India Partnership: Economic, Immigration &amp; Strategic Issues." Speaking at the conference organised by the US-India Friendship Council, Gabbard acknowledged that the bilateral relationship was facing a challenge in the field of trade.

"We have some trade challenges that we need to resolve as well as trade opportunities. I think that we have to make sure that cooler heads prevail as we deal with some of the differences that exist," she said.&nbsp;

"Obviously each country (is) advocating for what is in their interest, but recognising that we have great potential and opportunity in many different areas, the announcement to terminate the GSP preferences for India, I think to speak to some of those differences," Gabbard said.&nbsp;

Republican Congressman George Holding, who is Co-Chair of the Congressional India Caucus, agreed with Gabbard, saying that India has been in the generalized system of preferences for three decades and it's just not the right time to address that.&nbsp;

India, he said, is no longer that underdeveloped country when GSP was first granted. There has been a lot of changes in the country since then.&nbsp;

"We do probably need to revisit that. But we don't need to revisit it right before a general election," he said. Swadesh Chatterjee, chair of US-India Friendship Council, said that Trump's decision to terminate GSP for India would impact the country's export of about USD 5.6 billion.&nbsp;

This is more than 10 per cent of the total goods and services between the US and India and this suspension of GSP will definitely create some issues between the two countries. Senator Thom Tellis from North Carolina praised the contribution of Indian Americans in the economy and development of the United States.&nbsp;

"I developed a greater appreciation for their culture, their dedication to education and their dedication to excellence," he said. Referring to the growing defence ties between India and the United States, Indian-American Congressmen Ami Bera underscored the need of the two countries to work in areas like artificial intelligence.&nbsp;

"We'd like to authorize the Department of Defence (DoD) to assist India in reducing purchases from countries that we may mutually view as adversaries and certainly that we may view as adversaries," Bera said.&nbsp;

He said that Indo-US partnership in the area of defence is critical and the two countries have been conducting major defence and naval exercises together. "We would like to require the DoD to conduct regular military engagements and dialogue with India, particularly in the Western Indian Ocean region. We recognize that India strategically has a vital role in protecting the Indian Ocean region and in keeping those lanes of commerce open," he said.

&nbsp;"We'd like to require the State Department to advance India's membership into the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum or APEC because we think this is an important vehicle by which India can continue to seek it's free and open trade across Asia," Bera said.

President Donald Trump should delay his decision to terminate the preferential trade status granted to India till the general elections in the country are over, several influential US lawmakers, including Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard, said on Wednesday.

President Donald Trump should delay his decision to terminate the preferential trade status granted to India till the general elections in the country are over, several influential US lawmakers, including Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard, said on Wednesday. Trump this month informed the US Congress about his intent to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary developing country under Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that facilitates duty-free import of certain products from underdeveloped countries to help grow their economies. Under the United States GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by the Congress. India was the largest beneficiary of the programme in 2017 with USD 5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status, according to a Congressional Research Service report in January. "My hope is that we can delay, the termination of these GSP preferences until after the elections in India so that we can have a non-political conversation that is very focused on how we collectively can move forward together," Gabbard, the first Hindu US lawmaker, said at a conference on "The US-India Partnership: Economic, Immigration & Strategic Issues." Speaking at the conference organised by the US-India Friendship Council, Gabbard acknowledged that the bilateral relationship was facing a challenge in the field of trade. "We have some trade challenges that we need to resolve as well as trade opportunities. I think that we have to make sure that cooler heads prevail as we deal with some of the differences that exist," she said. "Obviously each country (is) advocating for what is in their interest, but recognising that we have great potential and opportunity in many different areas, the announcement to terminate the GSP preferences for India, I think to speak to some of those differences," Gabbard said. Republican Congressman George Holding, who is Co-Chair of the Congressional India Caucus, agreed with Gabbard, saying that India has been in the generalized system of preferences for three decades and it's just not the right time to address that. India, he said, is no longer that underdeveloped country when GSP was first granted. There has been a lot of changes in the country since then. "We do probably need to revisit that. But we don't need to revisit it right before a general election," he said. Swadesh Chatterjee, chair of US-India Friendship Council, said that Trump's decision to terminate GSP for India would impact the country's export of about USD 5.6 billion. This is more than 10 per cent of the total goods and services between the US and India and this suspension of GSP will definitely create some issues between the two countries. Senator Thom Tellis from North Carolina praised the contribution of Indian Americans in the economy and development of the United States. "I developed a greater appreciation for their culture, their dedication to education and their dedication to excellence," he said. Referring to the growing defence ties between India and the United States, Indian-American Congressmen Ami Bera underscored the need of the two countries to work in areas like artificial intelligence. "We'd like to authorize the Department of Defence (DoD) to assist India in reducing purchases from countries that we may mutually view as adversaries and certainly that we may view as adversaries," Bera said. He said that Indo-US partnership in the area of defence is critical and the two countries have been conducting major defence and naval exercises together. "We would like to require the DoD to conduct regular military engagements and dialogue with India, particularly in the Western Indian Ocean region. We recognize that India strategically has a vital role in protecting the Indian Ocean region and in keeping those lanes of commerce open," he said. "We'd like to require the State Department to advance India's membership into the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum or APEC because we think this is an important vehicle by which India can continue to seek it's free and open trade across Asia," Bera said.

Trump urged to delay decision on ending preferential trade deal with India

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-un-resolution-on-terror-financing-says-implementation-is-key-206402">India welcomes UN resolution on terror financing, says implementation is key &nbsp;</a>

India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-rally-trump-says-russia-probe-backers-tried-to-steal-power-illegally-206396">US President Trump says Russia probe backers tried to steal power illegally</a>

At his first political rally since the end of the Russia collusion probe, President Donald Trump on Thursday accused backers of the investigation of trying to overturn the 2016 election and attempting "illegally" to claim power.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/joint-cbi-ed-team-to-be-present-during-fugitive-nirav-modis-bail-plea-hearing-today-206393">Joint CBI, ED team to be present during fugitive Nirav Modi's bail plea hearing today</a>

A joint team of Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate officials arrived in London on Thursday for fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's bail hearing, which is scheduled on Friday in Westminster Magistrate court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-secretary-mnuchin-says-had-productive-working-dinner-in-china-206387">US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin says had 'productive working dinner' in China</a>

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Friday he had a "productive working dinner" the previous night in Beijing, as he headed to a state guest house to begin a day of trade talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-in-christchurch-for-remembrance-service-after-mass-shooting-206390">Thousands gather in Christchurch for remembrance service after mass shooting</a>

Thousands gathered in a Christchurch park on Friday (March 29) as the names of 50 people shot dead in two mosques were read out at a national memorial service, with speakers calling for the legacy of the tragedy to be a kinder, more tolerant New Zealand.

 
&nbsp;

India welcomes UN resolution on terror financing, says implementation is key India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation.

India welcomes UN resolution on terror financing, says implementation is key India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation. US President Trump says Russia probe backers tried to steal power illegally At his first political rally since the end of the Russia collusion probe, President Donald Trump on Thursday accused backers of the investigation of trying to overturn the 2016 election and attempting "illegally" to claim power. Joint CBI, ED team to be present during fugitive Nirav Modi's bail plea hearing today A joint team of Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate officials arrived in London on Thursday for fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's bail hearing, which is scheduled on Friday in Westminster Magistrate court. US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin says had 'productive working dinner' in China US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Friday he had a "productive working dinner" the previous night in Beijing, as he headed to a state guest house to begin a day of trade talks. Thousands gather in Christchurch for remembrance service after mass shooting Thousands gathered in a Christchurch park on Friday (March 29) as the names of 50 people shot dead in two mosques were read out at a national memorial service, with speakers calling for the legacy of the tragedy to be a kinder, more tolerant New Zealand.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency.

Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls.

According to the list of candidates released by Congress party on Thursday night, Manvendra Singh son of veteran BJP leader Jaswant Singh will fight from Barmer seat whereas former Union Minister Bhanwar Jitendra Singh will contest from Alwar seat.

The list has total names of 31 candidates - 19 from Rajasthan, 6 each for Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.

Polling in Rajasthan on 25 seats will be held on April 29 (Phase 4) and May 6 (Phase 5).

Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in seven phases, from April 11 to May 19.

Polling in Gujarat on 26 seats will take place on April 23.

Results of the polls will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency. Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot will contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from Jodhpur parliamentary constituency. Jodhpur is considered as the stronghold of Ashok Gehlot which may work in favour of Vaibhav in the polls. According to the list of candidates released by Congress party on Thursday night, Manvendra Singh son of veteran BJP leader Jaswant Singh will fight from Barmer seat whereas former Union Minister Bhanwar Jitendra Singh will contest from Alwar seat. The list has total names of 31 candidates - 19 from Rajasthan, 6 each for Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. Polling in Rajasthan on 25 seats will be held on April 29 (Phase 4) and May 6 (Phase 5). Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in seven phases, from April 11 to May 19. Polling in Gujarat on 26 seats will take place on April 23. Results of the polls will be declared on May 23.

Lok Sabha 2019: Congress releases list of candidates for Rajasthan, Gujarat, UP; Ashok Gehlot's son to contest from Jodhpur

A woman from Hyderabad has appealed External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to rescue her son, who is stranded in Bangladesh.

Zuleqa Begum, mother of Mohammed Imran has claimed that his passport and other belongings were forcibly taken by some unidentified persons in Bangladesh.

Narrating her ordeal, Zuleqa Begum told ANI, "Some 15 months back, my son went to Oman for work and started worked in a store. There he befriended a Bangladeshi National. Later on December 16, 2018, Imran came to Hyderabad on vacation and stayed with us in Hyderabad for two months. He then informed us that he is going to Kolkata for some work."

She added that after few days, Imran informed over the phone that he is in Bangladesh to attend a marriage of his Bangladeshi friend whom he had met in Oman, adding that he will be back to Hyderabad in two to three days but unfortunately he did not come back.

Owing to the difficulties faced by the victim, her family has appealed Swaraj to ensure his safe return.

"But once he called us again after 15 days and said that his passport was forcibly taken by few persons and they are also not letting him to speak with us or return back to India. Hence, I request Sushma Swaraj to rescue my son and see his safe return to Hyderabad," the grieving mother said.

A woman from Hyderabad has appealed External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to rescue her son, who is stranded in Bangladesh. Zuleqa Begum, mother of Mohammed Imran has claimed that his passport and other belongings were forcibly taken by some unidentified persons in Bangladesh.

A woman from Hyderabad has appealed External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to rescue her son, who is stranded in Bangladesh. Zuleqa Begum, mother of Mohammed Imran has claimed that his passport and other belongings were forcibly taken by some unidentified persons in Bangladesh. Narrating her ordeal, Zuleqa Begum told ANI, "Some 15 months back, my son went to Oman for work and started worked in a store. There he befriended a Bangladeshi National. Later on December 16, 2018, Imran came to Hyderabad on vacation and stayed with us in Hyderabad for two months. He then informed us that he is going to Kolkata for some work." She added that after few days, Imran informed over the phone that he is in Bangladesh to attend a marriage of his Bangladeshi friend whom he had met in Oman, adding that he will be back to Hyderabad in two to three days but unfortunately he did not come back. Owing to the difficulties faced by the victim, her family has appealed Swaraj to ensure his safe return. "But once he called us again after 15 days and said that his passport was forcibly taken by few persons and they are also not letting him to speak with us or return back to India. Hence, I request Sushma Swaraj to rescue my son and see his safe return to Hyderabad," the grieving mother said.

Hyderabad: Woman urges foreign minister Sushma Swaraj to rescue her son from Bangladesh

India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation.&nbsp;

Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative at UN said: ''Specifically welcome the resolution of essential role of financial action task force. The utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation.''

Terrorists are going to be ever more creative in finding ways to violate rules, he said.&nbsp;

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Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative at UN: Global community is impatient for action. Going forward UN collectively needs to do more &amp; to do it much more effectively. For its part, India will be a willing partner in this endeavour. <a href="https://t.co/eGJsFUwnWK">https://t.co/eGJsFUwnWK</a>
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The unfortunate reality is states who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions and inaction too as was done by a serial offender earlier today, he said without naming Pakistan.

''Global community is impatient for action. Going forward the UN collectively needs to do more and to do it much more effectively, Akbaruddin said.

He also assured the UN that India would be a willing partner in the endeavour.

''For its part, India will be a willing partner in this endeavour,'' Akbaruddin said.&nbsp;

India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation. Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative at UN said: ''Specifically welcome the resolution of essential role of financial action task force.

India on Friday welcomed UN resolution to counter terror financing and said that utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation. Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative at UN said: ''Specifically welcome the resolution of essential role of financial action task force. The utility of any council resolution will be in its implementation.'' Terrorists are going to be ever more creative in finding ways to violate rules, he said. Syed Akbaruddin, India's permanent representative at UN: Global community is impatient for action. Going forward UN collectively needs to do more & to do it much more effectively. For its part, India will be a willing partner in this endeavour. https://t.co/eGJsFUwnWK — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2019 × The unfortunate reality is states who are apologists for terrorists will continue to provide alibis to justify their actions and inaction too as was done by a serial offender earlier today, he said without naming Pakistan. ''Global community is impatient for action. Going forward the UN collectively needs to do more and to do it much more effectively, Akbaruddin said. He also assured the UN that India would be a willing partner in the endeavour. ''For its part, India will be a willing partner in this endeavour,'' Akbaruddin said.

India welcomes UN resolution on terror financing, says implementation is key  

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