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Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday sent alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Sajjad Khan to judicial custody till April 26. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-delhi-polices-special-cell-arrests-close-aide-of-jem-mastermind-mudasir-khan-204827">Mudassir Ahmed Khan</a> who was gunned down by the security forces in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on March 11.

Sajjad Khan was produced before the National Investigation Agency special court today.&nbsp;

Additional Sessions Judge Rakesh Syal had earlier sent him to the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for seven days, till March 29.

He was produced before the special court today at the end of the remand period.&nbsp;

NIA also pressed that they do not wish to interrogate him further, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

On March 22, the Special Cell of Delhi Police arrested Jaish-e-Mohammad operative Sajjad Khan near Red Fort.&nbsp;

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He was produced before NIA Special court today at the end his remand by NIA, where the investigation agency didn't ask for any further remand of him. <a href="https://t.co/yCVEvU0hGx">https://t.co/yCVEvU0hGx</a>
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"He was arrested under sections 120B and 121A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sections 17, 18, 18A, 18B, 20, 38 and 39 of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA)," the NIA statement said.

The statement further claimed, "In furtherance of this criminal conspiracy, Sajjad Ahmed Khan was specially sent to Delhi to set up hideouts in Delhi NCR. This was done to select specific targets and also to radicalise and recruit Muslim youths to further terror activities."&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army in Srinagar held a joint briefing earlier this month. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">Top officials told media</a> that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus, which was part of a convoy going to Srinagar from Jammu in February.&nbsp;

Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday sent alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Sajjad Khan to judicial custody till April 26. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir Ahmed Khan who was gunned down by the security forces in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on March 11.

Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday sent alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Sajjad Khan to judicial custody till April 26. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir Ahmed Khan who was gunned down by the security forces in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on March 11. Sajjad Khan was produced before the National Investigation Agency special court today. Additional Sessions Judge Rakesh Syal had earlier sent him to the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for seven days, till March 29. He was produced before the special court today at the end of the remand period. NIA also pressed that they do not wish to interrogate him further, news agency ANI reported. On March 22, the Special Cell of Delhi Police arrested Jaish-e-Mohammad operative Sajjad Khan near Red Fort. He was produced before NIA Special court today at the end his remand by NIA, where the investigation agency didn't ask for any further remand of him. https://t.co/yCVEvU0hGx — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2019 × "He was arrested under sections 120B and 121A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sections 17, 18, 18A, 18B, 20, 38 and 39 of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA)," the NIA statement said. The statement further claimed, "In furtherance of this criminal conspiracy, Sajjad Ahmed Khan was specially sent to Delhi to set up hideouts in Delhi NCR. This was done to select specific targets and also to radicalise and recruit Muslim youths to further terror activities." Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army in Srinagar held a joint briefing earlier this month. Top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus, which was part of a convoy going to Srinagar from Jammu in February.

Close aide of Pulwama attack mastermind sent to judicial custody till April 26

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pnb-scam-accused-nirav-modi-produced-in-uk-court-bail-hearing-underway-206513">PNB scam accused Nirav Modi produced in UK court, bail hearing underway</a>

Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, 48, was produced in&nbsp;London's Westminster Magistrate&nbsp;court on Friday for bail hearing as India made extradition for the PNB bank fraud accused.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-talks-postponed-as-pakistans-khalistan-support-raises-concerns-206493">Kartarpur talks postponed as Pakistan's Khalistan support raises concerns</a>

The second round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the&nbsp;modalities of Kartarpur corridor&nbsp;has been postponed after New Delhi raised the concern of Islamabad appointing Khalistani elements in the 10-member committee for managing the corridor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regulators-knew-before-crashes-that-737-max-trim-control-was-confusing-in-some-conditions-document-206497">Regulators knew before crashes that 737 MAX trim control was confusing in some conditions: Document</a>

US and European regulators knew at least two years before a Lion Air crash that the usual method for controlling the&nbsp;Boeing 737 MAX's nose angle might not work in conditions similar to those in two recent disasters, a document shows.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-losers-attitude-as-it-cannot-compete-against-huawei-chairman-guo-ping-206510">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-losers-attitude-as-it-cannot-compete-against-huawei-chairman-guo-ping-206510"> has loser's attitude as it cannot compete against Huawei: Chairman Guo Ping</a>

China's Huawei Technologies turned in a&nbsp;higher annual profit on recordhandset sales even as it continued to grapple with heightened global scrutiny amid allegations of espionage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-vote-for-pivotal-vote-on-mays-brexit-deal-206494">UK lawmakers to vote for </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-vote-for-pivotal-vote-on-mays-brexit-deal-206494">pivotal</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-vote-for-pivotal-vote-on-mays-brexit-deal-206494"> vote on May's Brexit deal</a>

MPs are set for a momentous third vote Friday on&nbsp;Prime Minister Theresa May's&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;divorce deal, which could end a months-long crisis or risk Britain crashing out of the EU in two weeks.

PNB scam accused Nirav Modi produced in UK court, bail hearing underway Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, 48, was produced in London's Westminster Magistrate court on Friday for bail hearing as India made extradition for the PNB bank fraud accused.

PNB scam accused Nirav Modi produced in UK court, bail hearing underway Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, 48, was produced in London's Westminster Magistrate court on Friday for bail hearing as India made extradition for the PNB bank fraud accused. Kartarpur talks postponed as Pakistan's Khalistan support raises concerns 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. Regulators knew before crashes that 737 MAX trim control was confusing in some conditions: Document US and European regulators knew at least two years before a Lion Air crash that the usual method for controlling the Boeing 737 MAX's nose angle might not work in conditions similar to those in two recent disasters, a document shows. US has loser's attitude as it cannot compete against Huawei: Chairman Guo Ping China's Huawei Technologies turned in a higher annual profit on recordhandset sales even as it continued to grapple with heightened global scrutiny amid allegations of espionage. UK lawmakers to vote for pivotal vote on May's Brexit deal MPs are set for a momentous third vote Friday on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit divorce deal, which could end a months-long crisis or risk Britain crashing out of the EU in two weeks.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India and the US Friday renewed a pact that provides a framework for promoting bilateral cooperation to meet the developmental aspirations of partner countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.

The First Amendment to the Statement of Guiding Principles (SGP) on Triangular Cooperation for Global Development was signed by Devyani Khobragade, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of India, and Mark Anthony White, Mission Director for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in India.

The SGP agreement, signed in November 2014, underscores the contribution of the India-US partnership to global stability and prosperity.

It provides a framework for promoting cooperation between the two countries to meet the developmental aspirations of partner countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.&nbsp;

The first amendment to the SGP agreement extends the validity of the SGP agreement up to 2021, a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) statement said.

It expands the scope of capacity-building activities undertaken jointly by India and the US under this framework and also provides a consultative mechanism for joint biannual monitoring and review of activities undertaken under the SGP.

"Under the agreement, India and the US will continue to offer capacity-building assistance to partner countries in multiple sectors, focusing primarily on agriculture, regional connectivity, trade and investments, nutrition, health, clean and renewable energy, women empowerment, disaster preparedness, water, sanitation, education and institution building," the statement said.&nbsp;

India and the US Friday renewed a pact that provides a framework for promoting bilateral cooperation to meet the developmental aspirations of partner countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.

India and the US Friday renewed a pact that provides a framework for promoting bilateral cooperation to meet the developmental aspirations of partner countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. The First Amendment to the Statement of Guiding Principles (SGP) on Triangular Cooperation for Global Development was signed by Devyani Khobragade, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of India, and Mark Anthony White, Mission Director for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in India. The SGP agreement, signed in November 2014, underscores the contribution of the India-US partnership to global stability and prosperity. It provides a framework for promoting cooperation between the two countries to meet the developmental aspirations of partner countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. The first amendment to the SGP agreement extends the validity of the SGP agreement up to 2021, a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) statement said. It expands the scope of capacity-building activities undertaken jointly by India and the US under this framework and also provides a consultative mechanism for joint biannual monitoring and review of activities undertaken under the SGP. "Under the agreement, India and the US will continue to offer capacity-building assistance to partner countries in multiple sectors, focusing primarily on agriculture, regional connectivity, trade and investments, nutrition, health, clean and renewable energy, women empowerment, disaster preparedness, water, sanitation, education and institution building," the statement said.

India, US renew triangular development cooperation in Asia and Africa

Upset over being sidelined in the party and the family, Tej Pratap Yadav, elder son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, on Thursday resigned as patron of the RJD student wing ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, dealing a blow to Bihar`s main opposition party.

"I am resigning from the post of Chhatra Rashtriya Janata Dal Sanrakshak. Those who think I am ignorant are ignorant themselves. I am well aware of who is worth what," he tweeted.

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छात्र राष्ट्रीय जनता दल के संरक्षक के पद से मैं इस्तीफा दे रहा हूँ। 
नादान हैं वो लोग जो मुझे नादान समझते हैं। 
कौन कितना पानी में है सबकी है खबर मुझे।
— Tej Pratap Yadav (@TejYadav14) <a href="https://twitter.com/TejYadav14/status/1111229882535694337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The sudden development comes as a major embarrassment to the party which has been beset by speculations of fierce rivalry between Tej Pratap and his younger brother Tejashwi Yadav.

Tejashwi has been declared as the political heir apparent of the RJD supremo.&nbsp;

Last year, Tej Pratap Yadav surprised his own family by filing a petition in a court seeking a divorce from newly-wed wife Aishwarya Rai. Despite pressure from the family, he has refused to withdraw his plea.

Aishwarya Rai is the daughter of RJD leader Chandrika Rai and granddaughter of former Bihar Chief Minister Daroga Rai.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Upset over being sidelined in the party and the family, Tej Pratap Yadav, elder son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, on Thursday resigned as patron of the RJD student wing ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, dealing a blow to Bihar`s main opposition party.

Upset over being sidelined in the party and the family, Tej Pratap Yadav, elder son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, on Thursday resigned as patron of the RJD student wing ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, dealing a blow to Bihar`s main opposition party. "I am resigning from the post of Chhatra Rashtriya Janata Dal Sanrakshak. Those who think I am ignorant are ignorant themselves. I am well aware of who is worth what," he tweeted. छात्र राष्ट्रीय जनता दल के संरक्षक के पद से मैं इस्तीफा दे रहा हूँ। नादान हैं वो लोग जो मुझे नादान समझते हैं। कौन कितना पानी में है सबकी है खबर मुझे। — Tej Pratap Yadav (@TejYadav14) March 28, 2019 × The sudden development comes as a major embarrassment to the party which has been beset by speculations of fierce rivalry between Tej Pratap and his younger brother Tejashwi Yadav. Tejashwi has been declared as the political heir apparent of the RJD supremo. Last year, Tej Pratap Yadav surprised his own family by filing a petition in a court seeking a divorce from newly-wed wife Aishwarya Rai. Despite pressure from the family, he has refused to withdraw his plea. Aishwarya Rai is the daughter of RJD leader Chandrika Rai and granddaughter of former Bihar Chief Minister Daroga Rai. (With inputs from agencies)

Lalu Prasad's elder son Tej Pratap Yadav resigns as Rashtriya Janata Dal students wing mentor

Taking a swipe at the grand alliance of opposition parties, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday said the '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahagathbandhan-in-bihar-allocates-seats-for-alliance-partners-for-lok-sabha-poll-phases-3-to-7-206478">mahagathbandhan</a>' is a 'non-bandhan', political circus and a recipe for chaos.

Several political parties, mostly traditional BJP opponents, have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the ensuing general elections beginning April 11.

In a blog post, Jaitley said that over the last several months, India was "exhausted" with the talk of a 'Mahagathbandhan'.&nbsp;

The rationale, he said, was that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP were very strong and could not be challenged by an individual party.&nbsp;

Stressing that Indians judge politicians by their merit and capacity and no longer by any traditional loyalty, he said, "We were promised a 'coalition of rivals' because India had to be saved. We were promised a common minimum agenda. Each leader amongst the aspirant Prime Ministers wanted to become a 'sutradhar' (anchor) of the alliance. He/she would periodically organise shows in his/her State and invite the entire bandwagon."&nbsp;

In opposition camp, Jaitley said there is a tussle for leadership as already multiple candidates have made their desire clear to take over the mantle of the leadership.&nbsp;

According to him, each one of them is interested to see the strength of the other party's contender depleting and also have high hopes in a chaotic and highly hung Parliament.&nbsp;

"He/ she believes that only in a chaotic situation he/she has a chance," said Jaitley, who is heading the BJP's publicity division of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The past track record of such governments in terms of policy, longevity and growth has to be borne in mind, he said adding their track record of corruption is equally well-known.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jaitley further said it is only because of the size of the BJP and clarity on leadership in the last coalition that a successful government was run under Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;

"Today you have no 'gathbandhan' let alone 'mahagathbandhan'. It is a 'non-bandhan'. You have no leader, no programme, no meeting of minds.&nbsp;

"Stability, which is paramount, is a major casualty. The only thing in common is the negative agenda 'remove one man'. It is a recipe for chaos," he said in the blog titled 'A Political Circus Called 'Mahagathbandhan'.&nbsp;

The nominations for the first two phases of polling are over and those for the third phase are about to happen. The results will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Taking a swipe at the grand alliance of opposition parties, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday said the 'mahagathbandhan' is a 'non-bandhan', political circus and a recipe for chaos.

Taking a swipe at the grand alliance of opposition parties, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday said the 'mahagathbandhan' is a 'non-bandhan', political circus and a recipe for chaos. Several political parties, mostly traditional BJP opponents, have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the ensuing general elections beginning April 11. In a blog post, Jaitley said that over the last several months, India was "exhausted" with the talk of a 'Mahagathbandhan'. The rationale, he said, was that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP were very strong and could not be challenged by an individual party. Stressing that Indians judge politicians by their merit and capacity and no longer by any traditional loyalty, he said, "We were promised a 'coalition of rivals' because India had to be saved. We were promised a common minimum agenda. Each leader amongst the aspirant Prime Ministers wanted to become a 'sutradhar' (anchor) of the alliance. He/she would periodically organise shows in his/her State and invite the entire bandwagon." In opposition camp, Jaitley said there is a tussle for leadership as already multiple candidates have made their desire clear to take over the mantle of the leadership. According to him, each one of them is interested to see the strength of the other party's contender depleting and also have high hopes in a chaotic and highly hung Parliament. "He/ she believes that only in a chaotic situation he/she has a chance," said Jaitley, who is heading the BJP's publicity division of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. The past track record of such governments in terms of policy, longevity and growth has to be borne in mind, he said adding their track record of corruption is equally well-known. Jaitley further said it is only because of the size of the BJP and clarity on leadership in the last coalition that a successful government was run under Prime Minister Modi. "Today you have no 'gathbandhan' let alone 'mahagathbandhan'. It is a 'non-bandhan'. You have no leader, no programme, no meeting of minds. "Stability, which is paramount, is a major casualty. The only thing in common is the negative agenda 'remove one man'. It is a recipe for chaos," he said in the blog titled 'A Political Circus Called 'Mahagathbandhan'. The nominations for the first two phases of polling are over and those for the third phase are about to happen. The results will be announced on May 23.

Mahagathbandhan is political circus, recipe for chaos: Arun Jaitley

In a big blow to the Congress, Patidar leader Hardik Patel has been barred from contesting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls owing to his conviction in a 2015 rioting case.

According to reports, the Gujarat High court on Friday rejected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hardik-patel-to-fight-lok-sabha-polls-congress-says-may-join-party-195669">Patel's plea seeking suspension of his conviction</a> in a 2015 rioting case in Mehsana.&nbsp;

As per the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Patel won't be able to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Election due to his conviction.

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Gujarat High court rejects Congress leader Hardik Patel's plea seeking suspension of his conviction in a rioting case of 2015 in Mehsana. As per the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Hardik Patel won't be able to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Election due to his conviction <a href="https://t.co/qmiuGwHMa3">pic.twitter.com/qmiuGwHMa3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1111573322691538944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Patel was barred from entering Mehsana by a court in the 2015 Mehsana riot case. He had filed a plea in the Gujarat high court against the lower court order.

In February sources from Congress were quoted by news agency PTI saying, "If the HC vacates the ban on his entry into Mehsana district, he is most likely to contest from Mehsana (in north Gujarat).... Amreli (in Saurasthra) is another seat which has been offered to him".

Patel's entry into the electoral fray will have an impact in Gujarat, where the Bharatiya Janata Party has been winning assembly elections since 1995. In the 2014 general election, the BJP had won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

In a big blow to the Congress, Patidar leader Hardik Patel has been barred from contesting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls owing to his conviction in a 2015 rioting case.

In a big blow to the Congress, Patidar leader Hardik Patel has been barred from contesting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls owing to his conviction in a 2015 rioting case. According to reports, the Gujarat High court on Friday rejected Patel's plea seeking suspension of his conviction in a 2015 rioting case in Mehsana. As per the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Patel won't be able to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Election due to his conviction. Gujarat High court rejects Congress leader Hardik Patel's plea seeking suspension of his conviction in a rioting case of 2015 in Mehsana. As per the Representation of the People Act, 1951, Hardik Patel won't be able to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Election due to his conviction pic.twitter.com/qmiuGwHMa3 — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2019 × Patel was barred from entering Mehsana by a court in the 2015 Mehsana riot case. He had filed a plea in the Gujarat high court against the lower court order. In February sources from Congress were quoted by news agency PTI saying, "If the HC vacates the ban on his entry into Mehsana district, he is most likely to contest from Mehsana (in north Gujarat).... Amreli (in Saurasthra) is another seat which has been offered to him". Patel's entry into the electoral fray will have an impact in Gujarat, where the Bharatiya Janata Party has been winning assembly elections since 1995. In the 2014 general election, the BJP had won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state. (With inputs from PTI)

Hardik Patel won't contest Lok Sabha polls, Gujarat HC rejects plea to stay his conviction in riots case

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday released its 12th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-releases-first-list-of-182-candidates-for-lok-sabha-polls-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-again-204704">list of candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls</a>. The list contains names of 11 candidates in Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.&nbsp;

The party has announced names of 367 candidates so far for the polls which will be held in seven phases starting April 11.&nbsp;

The list includes three candidates each from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan and one each from Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir.

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BJP releases 12th list of 11 candidates in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra &amp; Rajasthan for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/6GNeE0K0Ab">pic.twitter.com/6GNeE0K0Ab</a>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will contest from his home constituency Varanasi while Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will fight from Lucknow. Party chief Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar.&nbsp;

Textiles Minister Smriti Irani will challenge Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Gandhi-family bastion Amethi. &nbsp;

VK Singh (Ghaziabad), Hema Malini (Mathura), Sakshi Maharaj (Unnao) are some of the other prominent figures announced in the first list. &nbsp;

Jugal Kishore to contest from Jammu, Dr Jitendra Singh from Udhampur, Sofi Yousuf from Anantnag and Khalid Jehangir will contest from Srinagar.

Babul Supriyo will contest from Asanasol, Rahul Sinha from Kolkata North and CK Bose from Kolkata South.

Subhash Bhamre to contest from Dhule, Hansraj Ahir from Chandrapur, Poonam Mahajan from Mumbai North Central.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday released its 12th list of candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. The list contains names of 11 candidates in Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday released its 12th list of candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. The list contains names of 11 candidates in Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The party has announced names of 367 candidates so far for the polls which will be held in seven phases starting April 11. The list includes three candidates each from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan and one each from Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir. BJP releases 12th list of 11 candidates in Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra & Rajasthan for #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/6GNeE0K0Ab — ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2019 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi will contest from his home constituency Varanasi while Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will fight from Lucknow. Party chief Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar. Textiles Minister Smriti Irani will challenge Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Gandhi-family bastion Amethi. VK Singh (Ghaziabad), Hema Malini (Mathura), Sakshi Maharaj (Unnao) are some of the other prominent figures announced in the first list. Jugal Kishore to contest from Jammu, Dr Jitendra Singh from Udhampur, Sofi Yousuf from Anantnag and Khalid Jehangir will contest from Srinagar. Babul Supriyo will contest from Asanasol, Rahul Sinha from Kolkata North and CK Bose from Kolkata South. Subhash Bhamre to contest from Dhule, Hansraj Ahir from Chandrapur, Poonam Mahajan from Mumbai North Central.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases 12th list of 11 candidates

The CPI Friday announced that it would give a minimum pension of Rs 9,000 per month, grant full statehood to Delhi and Puducherry and a one-time comprehensive loan waiver for farmers as part of its manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

The Communist Party of India (CPI) also proposed a law for agricultural workers and a separate budget for agriculture.

The party said it would increase the number of guaranteed employment days under the MNREGA scheme to 200 days per family and ensure wage payment within the period of a guaranteed statute and at par with legal minimum wages for unskilled farm labour.

CPI leader D Raja, who released the manifesto, came down hard on the RSS-BJP and said that they, along with its other allied right-wing extremist organisations, had become "aggressive in pushing their ideology and agenda" which are "divisive, sectarian, communal and fascist."

"There is a systematic attack on our constitutional bodies and institutions... Authoritarianism and demagogy are the characteristics of Prime Minister Modi... The RSS ideology always played the politics of polarisation and alienation of the Muslims...The foreign policy of the BJP government is even a larger mess of failures... The use of armed forces for political mileage is condemnable and detrimental to the morale of the forces," he said.

It also announced that it was for the implementation of the one rank one pension to all the retired defence personnel, the universalisation of the PDS system, ensuring allocation of six per cent of GDP to health sector and the functional autonomy of the EC, CAG, RBI, CBI, CVC and other institutions of oversight.&nbsp;

The CPI Friday announced that it would give a minimum pension of Rs 9,000 per month, grant full statehood to Delhi and Puducherry and a one-time comprehensive loan waiver for farmers as part of its manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls.

The CPI Friday announced that it would give a minimum pension of Rs 9,000 per month, grant full statehood to Delhi and Puducherry and a one-time comprehensive loan waiver for farmers as part of its manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls. The Communist Party of India (CPI) also proposed a law for agricultural workers and a separate budget for agriculture. The party said it would increase the number of guaranteed employment days under the MNREGA scheme to 200 days per family and ensure wage payment within the period of a guaranteed statute and at par with legal minimum wages for unskilled farm labour. CPI leader D Raja, who released the manifesto, came down hard on the RSS-BJP and said that they, along with its other allied right-wing extremist organisations, had become "aggressive in pushing their ideology and agenda" which are "divisive, sectarian, communal and fascist." "There is a systematic attack on our constitutional bodies and institutions... Authoritarianism and demagogy are the characteristics of Prime Minister Modi... The RSS ideology always played the politics of polarisation and alienation of the Muslims...The foreign policy of the BJP government is even a larger mess of failures... The use of armed forces for political mileage is condemnable and detrimental to the morale of the forces," he said. It also announced that it was for the implementation of the one rank one pension to all the retired defence personnel, the universalisation of the PDS system, ensuring allocation of six per cent of GDP to health sector and the functional autonomy of the EC, CAG, RBI, CBI, CVC and other institutions of oversight.

Lok Sabha polls: CPI releases manifesto, announces assured pension of Rs 9,000 per month

The work on various infrastructure projects to develop the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-talks-postponed-as-pakistans-khalistan-support-raises-concerns-206493">Kartarpur corridor</a> on the Indian side is underway at a vigorous pace by the Land Port Authority of India (LPAI) and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). The entire project is being monitored at the secretary level.

The LPAI will be building a passenger terminal building (PTB ) at the cost of Rs 195 crore. The tender for building it was issued on March 9. The last day of submission of the tender documents is April 9. The Indian government has said that the contract will be awarded very soon.

Around 50 acres of land has been demarcated to build the PTB out of which 15 acres of land has already been taken. Rs 10 crores have been given as compensation for land acquisition for the building.

The earthwork, like the levelling activity, began on March 18. As much as 15 acres of land has been levelled as of March 28.

Meanwhile, the NHAI is acquiring 23 hectares of land for the 4.2-kilometre four-lane highway leading up to the passenger terminal building at the border. The total cost of the highway project is around Rs 120 crores with the NHAI already releasing Rs 14 crores.&nbsp;

New Delhi has maintained it is committed to realising the long pending demand of the Indian pilgrims to visit the holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor in a "safe, secure, smooth and easy manner."

Passenger terminal building will be able to cater to 5,000 pilgrims per day. The design of the complex has been inspired by "Khanda" - the symbol of Sikhism.

The work on various infrastructure projects to develop the Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side is underway at a vigorous pace by the Land Port Authority of India (LPAI) and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

The work on various infrastructure projects to develop the Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side is underway at a vigorous pace by the Land Port Authority of India (LPAI) and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). The entire project is being monitored at the secretary level. The LPAI will be building a passenger terminal building (PTB ) at the cost of Rs 195 crore. The tender for building it was issued on March 9. The last day of submission of the tender documents is April 9. The Indian government has said that the contract will be awarded very soon. Around 50 acres of land has been demarcated to build the PTB out of which 15 acres of land has already been taken. Rs 10 crores have been given as compensation for land acquisition for the building. The earthwork, like the levelling activity, began on March 18. As much as 15 acres of land has been levelled as of March 28. Meanwhile, the NHAI is acquiring 23 hectares of land for the 4.2-kilometre four-lane highway leading up to the passenger terminal building at the border. The total cost of the highway project is around Rs 120 crores with the NHAI already releasing Rs 14 crores. New Delhi has maintained it is committed to realising the long pending demand of the Indian pilgrims to visit the holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor in a "safe, secure, smooth and easy manner." Passenger terminal building will be able to cater to 5,000 pilgrims per day. The design of the complex has been inspired by "Khanda" - the symbol of Sikhism.

Kartarpur corridor: India's massive infrastructure projects begin

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power.

“We give equal respect to all religions in the country. But Mamata didi gives a monthly stipend to Imams only. But the same monthly stipend is not given to the pandits. This is minority appeasement. She forcibly imposes Urdu language in schools. She alloted Rs 4,000 crore budget to Madrasa but the entire higher education budget is less than 4,000 crore depriving children of becoming engineers and doctors,” Shah said during a campaign rally in Alipurduar district of Bengal.

He added that if voted to power, the party will implement the NRC in the state. “We are going to implement the NRC in West Bengal and kick out all infiltrators. I want to assure all refugees that we will give you shelter through the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Mamata ji wants to kick out the refugees but we will not allow that,” added Shah.

The BJP national president once again raised the issue of the Rath Yatra permission being denied by the authorities and claimed that democracy does not prevail in the state.

“When we were to take out the Rath Yatra we were not given permission. Helicopter’s permission was denied to me, Rajnath Singh ji and Yogi Adityanath ji. Mamata ji doesn't allow villagers to cast their vote. I want to tell everyone that TMC's time is up and we are confident of getting 23 seats here,” he said.

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power.

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power. “We give equal respect to all religions in the country. But Mamata didi gives a monthly stipend to Imams only. But the same monthly stipend is not given to the pandits. This is minority appeasement. She forcibly imposes Urdu language in schools. She alloted Rs 4,000 crore budget to Madrasa but the entire higher education budget is less than 4,000 crore depriving children of becoming engineers and doctors,” Shah said during a campaign rally in Alipurduar district of Bengal. He added that if voted to power, the party will implement the NRC in the state. “We are going to implement the NRC in West Bengal and kick out all infiltrators. I want to assure all refugees that we will give you shelter through the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Mamata ji wants to kick out the refugees but we will not allow that,” added Shah. The BJP national president once again raised the issue of the Rath Yatra permission being denied by the authorities and claimed that democracy does not prevail in the state. “When we were to take out the Rath Yatra we were not given permission. Helicopter’s permission was denied to me, Rajnath Singh ji and Yogi Adityanath ji. Mamata ji doesn't allow villagers to cast their vote. I want to tell everyone that TMC's time is up and we are confident of getting 23 seats here,” he said.

Lok Sabha polls: 'TMC's time is up, will implement NRC in state if voted to power,' says Amit Shah in Bengal

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how.

"India is a precious friend. What friend do is that they help each other to defend each other. As long as India needs our help, assistance, sharing of technology, know-how to defend itself, we are here," a top Isreali government source told WION.&nbsp;

"No compromise&nbsp;with those who speak the language of power since they do not understand any other language," the source said.

The development comes against the backdrop of reports that India used Israeli developed SPICE 2000 bombs during its counter-terror operations in Balakot, Pakistan to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed camps.&nbsp;

SPICE stands for Smart, precise, Impact, cost-effective.

On India's ties with the Arab world, the sources said, "So far as diplomacy is concerned everyone has different interest."

"Friends can be friends and agree and disagree and can still be friends,'' the source said.

Ties between India and Israel have been growing in the past few years with a number of high-level visits between both countries.&nbsp;

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi visited Israel in July 2017, the first visit by an Indian PM to the country. It was followed by a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in January 2018.

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how. "India is a precious friend.

Israel on Friday said that it will back its "precious friend" India in its fight against terrorism by transfer of technology and crucial know-how. "India is a precious friend. What friend do is that they help each other to defend each other. As long as India needs our help, assistance, sharing of technology, know-how to defend itself, we are here," a top Isreali government source told WION. "No compromise with those who speak the language of power since they do not understand any other language," the source said. The development comes against the backdrop of reports that India used Israeli developed SPICE 2000 bombs during its counter-terror operations in Balakot, Pakistan to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed camps. SPICE stands for Smart, precise, Impact, cost-effective. On India's ties with the Arab world, the sources said, "So far as diplomacy is concerned everyone has different interest." "Friends can be friends and agree and disagree and can still be friends,'' the source said. Ties between India and Israel have been growing in the past few years with a number of high-level visits between both countries. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi visited Israel in July 2017, the first visit by an Indian PM to the country. It was followed by a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in January 2018.

Ready to share counter-terror technology, crucial know-how with India: Israel govt source

The 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in Bihar on Friday announced the seats to be contested by each of the alliance partners -- the RJD, Congress, RLSP, HAM and VIP -- in phases three to seven of the general elections.

Out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, polling would be held in 31 constituencies in phases three to seven between April 23 and May 19.

Announcing the seat-sharing arrangement at a press conference here, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also declared the name of his party's candidates and said that no nominee would be fielded by the alliance in Ara to help the CPI(ML) Liberation. He said the candidate for Sheohar seat "will be decided in two-three days".

Senior leaders of the Congress were conspicuous by their absence at the press conference.

Yadav also said his party would contest the Darbhanga seat, which has emerged as a bone of contention between the RJD and the Congress with the latter insisting on having the seat as it wanted to field sitting MP Kirti Azad, who had recently joined the party after quitting the BJP.

Senior RJD leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui would fight from Darbhanga.

Among the other prominent RJD candidates, Lalu Prasad's eldest daughter Misa Bharti would contest from Pataliputra, which she had lost to her father's former loyalist-turned-BJP leader Ram

Kripal Yadav in 2014. Chandrika Rai the father of Tej Pratap Yadav's estranged wife Aishwarya, will be fight from Saran.

Tejashwi also claimed that the Congress, which was represented at the press conference by former MLC Narendra Kumar Singh, had cleared the names of some of its candidates which included sitting MP from Supaul Ranjeet Ranjan and former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar who would try her luck from Sasaram.

Meira Kumar has been contesting from her Sasaram parliamentary constituency for many years but had lost in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

The 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in Bihar on Friday announced the seats to be contested by each of the alliance partners -- the RJD, Congress, RLSP, HAM and VIP -- in phases three to seven of the general elections.

The 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in Bihar on Friday announced the seats to be contested by each of the alliance partners -- the RJD, Congress, RLSP, HAM and VIP -- in phases three to seven of the general elections. Out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, polling would be held in 31 constituencies in phases three to seven between April 23 and May 19. Announcing the seat-sharing arrangement at a press conference here, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also declared the name of his party's candidates and said that no nominee would be fielded by the alliance in Ara to help the CPI(ML) Liberation. He said the candidate for Sheohar seat "will be decided in two-three days". Senior leaders of the Congress were conspicuous by their absence at the press conference. Yadav also said his party would contest the Darbhanga seat, which has emerged as a bone of contention between the RJD and the Congress with the latter insisting on having the seat as it wanted to field sitting MP Kirti Azad, who had recently joined the party after quitting the BJP. Senior RJD leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui would fight from Darbhanga. Among the other prominent RJD candidates, Lalu Prasad's eldest daughter Misa Bharti would contest from Pataliputra, which she had lost to her father's former loyalist-turned-BJP leader Ram Kripal Yadav in 2014. Chandrika Rai the father of Tej Pratap Yadav's estranged wife Aishwarya, will be fight from Saran. Tejashwi also claimed that the Congress, which was represented at the press conference by former MLC Narendra Kumar Singh, had cleared the names of some of its candidates which included sitting MP from Supaul Ranjeet Ranjan and former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar who would try her luck from Sasaram. Meira Kumar has been contesting from her Sasaram parliamentary constituency for many years but had lost in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

'Mahagathbandhan' in Bihar allocates seats for alliance partners for Lok Sabha poll phases 3 to 7

The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the conviction and life imprisonment awarded to Saravana Bhavan restaurant chain owner P Rajagopal for murdering one of his employees in 2001.

The judgement was announced by a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana.

Rajagopal has been accused of murdering his worker Prince Santhakumar in 2001, as the latter married the lady whom businessman wanted to tie the knot with.

The accused was convicted and awarded life imprisonment by the Madras High Court. Later in 2009, the top court granted him bail on medical grounds.

Rajagopal has been given time till April 7 to surrender before the court.

The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the conviction and life imprisonment awarded to Saravana Bhavan restaurant chain owner P Rajagopal for murdering one of his employees in 2001.

The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the conviction and life imprisonment awarded to Saravana Bhavan restaurant chain owner P Rajagopal for murdering one of his employees in 2001. The judgement was announced by a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana. Rajagopal has been accused of murdering his worker Prince Santhakumar in 2001, as the latter married the lady whom businessman wanted to tie the knot with. The accused was convicted and awarded life imprisonment by the Madras High Court. Later in 2009, the top court granted him bail on medical grounds. Rajagopal has been given time till April 7 to surrender before the court.

Supreme Court upholds conviction, life imprisonment of Saravana Bhavan founder in murder case

India wants April 2 Kartarpur talks in Wagah, Pakistan rescheduled after Islamabad appointed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-ministry-submits-proposal-to-pm-imran-khan-to-open-sharada-temple-for-indians-205524">Khalistani elements </a>on the committee associated with the Kartarpur corridor.

India's move comes against the backdrop of New Delhi asking Pakistan to clarify its stand on the proposal it had put forward in the last meet on March 14 in Attari, India.

India has already expressed its concern on security front to Pakistan deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah.&nbsp;

A release from the Ministry of External Affairs said India has "shared concerns and sought clarifications on reports that controversial elements have been appointed by Pakistan to a committee to be associated with the Kartarpur Corridor."

Adding, "It has been conveyed that the next meeting on the modalities can be scheduled at an appropriate time after receiving Pakistan’s response."&nbsp;

A well known Khalistani and close aide of Gopal Singh Chawla has been recently appointed to Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee.

Sources told WION, "It is 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."

India has also stated that it remains committed to "realise the long-pending demand of the Indian pilgrims to visit the Holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the Corridor in a safe, secure, smooth and easy manner."

The project is being monitored at the secretary-level with 14 crores being transferred to land acquisition authorities and India is hopeful that the September 2019 deadline will be met.

India wants April 2 Kartarpur talks in Wagah, Pakistan rescheduled after Islamabad appointed Khalistani elements on the committee associated with the Kartarpur corridor.

India wants April 2 Kartarpur talks in Wagah, Pakistan rescheduled after Islamabad appointed Khalistani elements on the committee associated with the Kartarpur corridor. India's move comes against the backdrop of New Delhi asking Pakistan to clarify its stand on the proposal it had put forward in the last meet on March 14 in Attari, India. India has already expressed its concern on security front to Pakistan deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah. A release from the Ministry of External Affairs said India has "shared concerns and sought clarifications on reports that controversial elements have been appointed by Pakistan to a committee to be associated with the Kartarpur Corridor." Adding, "It has been conveyed that the next meeting on the modalities can be scheduled at an appropriate time after receiving Pakistan’s response." A well known Khalistani and close aide of Gopal Singh Chawla has been recently appointed to Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee. Sources told WION, "It is 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." India has also stated that it remains committed to "realise the long-pending demand of the Indian pilgrims to visit the Holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the Corridor in a safe, secure, smooth and easy manner." The project is being monitored at the secretary-level with 14 crores being transferred to land acquisition authorities and India is hopeful that the September 2019 deadline will be met.

New Delhi wants 2nd Kartarpur meet rescheduled after increased Khalistani role 

Reacting to India's mission Shakti or Anti-Satellite Missile Test, Russia on Friday said that it welcomed New Delhi's "reassurance" on making the outer space free from arms race.&nbsp;

In a statement, Russian foreign ministry highlighted the "non-directedness of this test against any specific country declared by the Indian leadership" as well as the "reassurance of the continuity of New Delhi foreign policy to prevent the deployment of weapons in outer space and thereby the development of an arms race in it."

It has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government not to weaponise the Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes.

Russia is the fourth country to make a public statement on India's ASAT test after Pakistan, China and the US. The statement by the US was positive while China's was rather guarded. Pakistan, on expected lines, criticised the New Delhi's move.

But Russia did state that action by New Delhi was "largely the result of the substantially degraded situation in the field of arms control" for which Moscow blamed Washington.&nbsp;

The statement said, actions by US such as "unilateral and unlimited development" of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mission-shakti-us-state-department-says-space-debris-an-imporant-concern-206157">US global anti-missile</a> defence systems and continuing with its policy of "weaponisation of outer space" is making other countries to take actions "in the interests of strengthening their national security."

US President Donald Trump has proposed a space force in March of 2018 which will be the 6th branch of US armed forces. It will be separate but equal to the US Air Force.

Moscow also suggested its "Indian partners" to "actively join" efforts of the international community to present an arms race in outer space. Russia and China have come up with a draft treaty to prevent the weaponization of outer space.

Reacting to India's mission Shakti or Anti-Satellite Missile Test, Russia on Friday said that it welcomed New Delhi's "reassurance" on making the outer space free from arms race.

Reacting to India's mission Shakti or Anti-Satellite Missile Test, Russia on Friday said that it welcomed New Delhi's "reassurance" on making the outer space free from arms race. In a statement, Russian foreign ministry highlighted the "non-directedness of this test against any specific country declared by the Indian leadership" as well as the "reassurance of the continuity of New Delhi foreign policy to prevent the deployment of weapons in outer space and thereby the development of an arms race in it." It has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government not to weaponise the Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes. Russia is the fourth country to make a public statement on India's ASAT test after Pakistan, China and the US. The statement by the US was positive while China's was rather guarded. Pakistan, on expected lines, criticised the New Delhi's move. But Russia did state that action by New Delhi was "largely the result of the substantially degraded situation in the field of arms control" for which Moscow blamed Washington. The statement said, actions by US such as "unilateral and unlimited development" of the US global anti-missile defence systems and continuing with its policy of "weaponisation of outer space" is making other countries to take actions "in the interests of strengthening their national security." US President Donald Trump has proposed a space force in March of 2018 which will be the 6th branch of US armed forces. It will be separate but equal to the US Air Force. Moscow also suggested its "Indian partners" to "actively join" efforts of the international community to present an arms race in outer space. Russia and China have come up with a draft treaty to prevent the weaponization of outer space.

ASAT: Russia welcomes New Delhi's efforts to prevent arms race in outer space 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said his government had taken measures to set up a 'chowkidar' in space and asked people to vote for a government that can take concrete decisions and not just raise slogans.

Launching his campaign in eastern India with a rally in Jeypore area of Odisha's Koraput district, the prime minister said the NDA government wouldn't have been able to do any development work in the country without the support of the people.

He sought blessings from his supporters for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and asserted that the NDA government has left no stone unturned to bring about development in the state.

"The NDA government has been working hard to develop road and rail infrastructure in the state. There is no dearth of funds when it comes to development work in the country.

"In the last five years, the government has been able to build homes for eight lakh families, light up 3,000 houses and provide gas connections to 40 lakh homes," Modi stated.

Referring to Mission Shakti, when India demonstrated anti-satellite (ASAT) missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, he said the government has taken measures to set up a 'chowkidar' (watchman ) in space.

He came down heavily on opposition parties who he said "belittled" the space achievement.

"Those that are criticising the anti-satellite technology will be given a befitting reply in the elections," he claimed, urging people to vote for a government that can take concrete decisions, not the one that only raises slogans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said his government had taken measures to set up a 'chowkidar' in space and asked people to vote for a government that can take concrete decisions and not just raise slogans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said his government had taken measures to set up a 'chowkidar' in space and asked people to vote for a government that can take concrete decisions and not just raise slogans. Launching his campaign in eastern India with a rally in Jeypore area of Odisha's Koraput district, the prime minister said the NDA government wouldn't have been able to do any development work in the country without the support of the people. He sought blessings from his supporters for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and asserted that the NDA government has left no stone unturned to bring about development in the state. "The NDA government has been working hard to develop road and rail infrastructure in the state. There is no dearth of funds when it comes to development work in the country. "In the last five years, the government has been able to build homes for eight lakh families, light up 3,000 houses and provide gas connections to 40 lakh homes," Modi stated. Referring to Mission Shakti, when India demonstrated anti-satellite (ASAT) missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, he said the government has taken measures to set up a 'chowkidar' (watchman ) in space. He came down heavily on opposition parties who he said "belittled" the space achievement. "Those that are criticising the anti-satellite technology will be given a befitting reply in the elections," he claimed, urging people to vote for a government that can take concrete decisions, not the one that only raises slogans.

Government has taken measures to set up 'chowkidar' in space: Modi in Odisha

The Supreme Court Friday granted two more months to the Special Investigation Team to complete its probe into 186 cases of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

A bench comprising Justices SA Bobde and S Abdul Nazeer extended the time after the SIT informed it that more than 50 per cent of the work has been done and it wanted two more months to complete the investigation.

The apex court also issued a notice to parties on a plea by petitioner S Gurlad Singh Kahlon, a member of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, seeking inquiry into the role of 62 policemen named in the riots.

The apex court had on January 11 last year constituted the SIT headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S N Dhingra and comprising retired IPS officer Rajdeep

Singh and serving IPS officer Abhishek Dular to supervise further probe into the 186 riots cases, in which closure reports had been filed earlier.

However, the SIT presently has only two members as Singh had declined to be a part of the team on "personal grounds".

Large-scale riots had broken out in the national capital in the aftermath of the assassination of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi by her two Sikh security guards on the morning of October 31, 1984. The violence had claimed 2,733 lives in Delhi alone.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Friday granted two more months to the Special Investigation Team to complete its probe into 186 cases of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. A bench comprising Justices SA Bobde and S Abdul Nazeer extended the time after the SIT informed it that more than 50 per cent of the work has been done and it wanted two more months to complete the investigation.

The Supreme Court Friday granted two more months to the Special Investigation Team to complete its probe into 186 cases of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. A bench comprising Justices SA Bobde and S Abdul Nazeer extended the time after the SIT informed it that more than 50 per cent of the work has been done and it wanted two more months to complete the investigation. The apex court also issued a notice to parties on a plea by petitioner S Gurlad Singh Kahlon, a member of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, seeking inquiry into the role of 62 policemen named in the riots. The apex court had on January 11 last year constituted the SIT headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S N Dhingra and comprising retired IPS officer Rajdeep Singh and serving IPS officer Abhishek Dular to supervise further probe into the 186 riots cases, in which closure reports had been filed earlier. However, the SIT presently has only two members as Singh had declined to be a part of the team on "personal grounds". Large-scale riots had broken out in the national capital in the aftermath of the assassination of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi by her two Sikh security guards on the morning of October 31, 1984. The violence had claimed 2,733 lives in Delhi alone.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Supreme Court grants two more months to SIT to complete its probe

Three terrorists were killed following the encounter with the security forces in Keller area of Shopian district,&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The security forces launched an anti-militancy operation in Yarwan forest area of the district following information about the presence of the ultras there, he said.

The official said three militants were killed in the operation, which was underway till last reports came in.&nbsp;

Three terrorists were killed following the encounter with the security forces in Keller area of Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday morning. The security forces launched an anti-militancy operation in Yarwan forest area of the district following information about the presence of the ultras there, he said.

Three terrorists were killed following the encounter with the security forces in Keller area of Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday morning. The security forces launched an anti-militancy operation in Yarwan forest area of the district following information about the presence of the ultras there, he said. The official said three militants were killed in the operation, which was underway till last reports came in.

Three militants killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir

India has expressed disappointment over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-terror-camps-exist-on-22-locations-shared-by-india-pak-on-pulwama-attack-206266">Pakistan's response to the dossier</a> sent by Indian authorities on Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JEM) involvement in the Pulwama terror attack.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a release said, "Regrettably, Pakistan continues to be in denial mode and even refuses to acknowledge Pulwama as a terror attack".

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BJvQoCim0q8" width="560"></iframe>

Adding further MEA said, "We are hardly surprised, as this identical script was followed by Pakistan in the past, after the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008 or in Pathankot in 2016. It is a well-known fact that the UN-designated terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan."

On February 27, India had summoned Pakistan's deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and handed over a detailed dossier of JeM's complicity in the worst terror attack on Indian security personnel in last two decades.

Earlier Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi had publically acknowledged Masood Azhar's present in Pakistan in an interview to a western media outlet.

Reacting to Pakistan's request for more evidence of JeM's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack, New Delhi said, "There's no dearth of sufficient actionable information and evidence in Pakistan itself to take action against them if there is sincerity and intent to do so. "

Pakistan on Wednesday shared its preliminary findings on the dossier and asked New Delhi to provide "credible evidence" for the country to act on. The findings were shared by the Pakistani Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua with Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad Ajay Bisaria.

Meanwhile, reminding Pakistan to abide by 2004 commitment that it will not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against India, New Delhi called on Islamabad to take immediate, credible, irreversible and verifiable actions "against terrorists and terror organisations operating from territories under its control."

Earlier on Thursday Pakistani Foreign Ministry said that 54 individuals it detained days after Pulwama terror attack have no link with the attack and the locations provided by New Delhi in the dossier have no terror camps.

India has expressed disappointment over Pakistan's response to the dossier sent by Indian authorities on Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JEM) involvement in the Pulwama terror attack.

India has expressed disappointment over Pakistan's response to the dossier sent by Indian authorities on Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JEM) involvement in the Pulwama terror attack. The Ministry of External Affairs in a release said, "Regrettably, Pakistan continues to be in denial mode and even refuses to acknowledge Pulwama as a terror attack". Adding further MEA said, "We are hardly surprised, as this identical script was followed by Pakistan in the past, after the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008 or in Pathankot in 2016. It is a well-known fact that the UN-designated terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan." On February 27, India had summoned Pakistan's deputy high commissioner Syed Haider Shah and handed over a detailed dossier of JeM's complicity in the worst terror attack on Indian security personnel in last two decades. Earlier Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi had publically acknowledged Masood Azhar's present in Pakistan in an interview to a western media outlet. Reacting to Pakistan's request for more evidence of JeM's involvement in the Pulwama terror attack, New Delhi said, "There's no dearth of sufficient actionable information and evidence in Pakistan itself to take action against them if there is sincerity and intent to do so. " Pakistan on Wednesday shared its preliminary findings on the dossier and asked New Delhi to provide "credible evidence" for the country to act on. The findings were shared by the Pakistani Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua with Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad Ajay Bisaria. Meanwhile, reminding Pakistan to abide by 2004 commitment that it will not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against India, New Delhi called on Islamabad to take immediate, credible, irreversible and verifiable actions "against terrorists and terror organisations operating from territories under its control." Earlier on Thursday Pakistani Foreign Ministry said that 54 individuals it detained days after Pulwama terror attack have no link with the attack and the locations provided by New Delhi in the dossier have no terror camps.

Pakistan continues to be in denial mode on Pulwama attack: India

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago.&nbsp;

About 100 scientists worked around the clock to reach the intended launch date target, he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> DRDO Chairman GS Reddy to ANI says, “NSA (Ajit Doval) whom we report to on strategic matters gave direction to go ahead with the test &amp; he had the concurrence from PM. The development started a few years back &amp; we went into mission mode in last 6 months.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionShakti</a> <a href="https://t.co/QPoPobC9pp">pic.twitter.com/QPoPobC9pp</a>
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According to Reddy, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, who had the concurrence from the prime minister, gave the go-ahead for the test.&nbsp;

DRDO reports to Doval on strategic matters.&nbsp;

Reddy said A-SAT missile was capable of targeting all ‘Low Earth Orbit’ (LEO) satellites and has a range of up to a 1000 Kilometers plus.&nbsp;

''We have the ability to handle LEO satellites but we intentionally chose at low altitudes as a responsible nation to see that all the space assets are safe and debris decayed fast,'' he added.

The missile has been developed specifically as an anti-satellite weapon, Reddy said and added, it&nbsp;has the technologies developed for ballistic missile defence applications, particularly the kill vehicle.

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago.

A day after India's successful anti-satellite missile test, DRDO Chairman G Sateesh Reddy said that ASAT missile programme started a few years back and entered ‘mission mode’ six months ago. About 100 scientists worked around the clock to reach the intended launch date target, he added. #WATCH DRDO Chairman GS Reddy to ANI says, “NSA (Ajit Doval) whom we report to on strategic matters gave direction to go ahead with the test & he had the concurrence from PM. The development started a few years back & we went into mission mode in last 6 months.” #MissionShakti pic.twitter.com/QPoPobC9pp — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2019 × According to Reddy, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, who had the concurrence from the prime minister, gave the go-ahead for the test. DRDO reports to Doval on strategic matters. Reddy said A-SAT missile was capable of targeting all ‘Low Earth Orbit’ (LEO) satellites and has a range of up to a 1000 Kilometers plus. ''We have the ability to handle LEO satellites but we intentionally chose at low altitudes as a responsible nation to see that all the space assets are safe and debris decayed fast,'' he added. The missile has been developed specifically as an anti-satellite weapon, Reddy said and added, it has the technologies developed for ballistic missile defence applications, particularly the kill vehicle.

ASAT missile project began 2 years ago, went into 'mission mode' in last 6 months, says DRDO Chairman

Monsoon in India should be robust provided no El Nino surprise: Meteorological Department

In a predawn swoop Thursday, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister C S Puttaraju and his nephew.

Speaking to a private news channel, JD(S) leader Puttaraju said three teams of Income Tax officials and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel carried out raids at his Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and his nephew's house in Mysuru.

The development came a day after, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy raised fears about possible raids on Congress and JD(S) functionaries in the state.

He had claimed that CRPF personnel were brought from various parts of the country to carry out the raids in the state. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Raids on Congress and JD(S) leaders can take place early Thursday morning using CRPF jawans instead of taking the help of the Karnataka Police in order to maintain secrecy, Kumaraswamy had claimed on Wednesday.

"Three teams of I-T officials and CRPF soldiers comprising eight soldiers carried out raids at my Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and my nephew's residence in Mysuru," Puttaraju told the channel.

The minister said he was not afraid of the raids and instead, it had instilled confidence in him.

"I'm not deterred by the raids, which are election-related. I would like to know which BJP leader's house in Karnataka has been raided," Puttaraju, who is in-charge minister of Mandya district, said.

The JD(S) has assigned him to oversee the electioneering of HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy, who is fighting his maiden election from the Mandya Lok Sabha seat.

The chief minister Wednesday warned that he would follow what his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee did to counter the 'misuse' of central agencies.

Banerjee had staged a "Save the Constitution" dharna from February 3 to 5 in Kolkata after the CBI's failed bid to question Kolkata Police&nbsp; 
Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund cases.

Puttaraju said soon a meeting will be convened where mode of protest against these raids will be decided.

Sources in the Congress said raids have been carried out at least 10 to 15 places in the city and elsewhere without giving details.

Income Tax officials were not available for comments.&nbsp;

In a predawn swoop Thursday, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister C S Puttaraju and his nephew.

In a predawn swoop Thursday, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister C S Puttaraju and his nephew. Speaking to a private news channel, JD(S) leader Puttaraju said three teams of Income Tax officials and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel carried out raids at his Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and his nephew's house in Mysuru. The development came a day after, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy raised fears about possible raids on Congress and JD(S) functionaries in the state. He had claimed that CRPF personnel were brought from various parts of the country to carry out the raids in the state. Raids on Congress and JD(S) leaders can take place early Thursday morning using CRPF jawans instead of taking the help of the Karnataka Police in order to maintain secrecy, Kumaraswamy had claimed on Wednesday. "Three teams of I-T officials and CRPF soldiers comprising eight soldiers carried out raids at my Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and my nephew's residence in Mysuru," Puttaraju told the channel. The minister said he was not afraid of the raids and instead, it had instilled confidence in him. "I'm not deterred by the raids, which are election-related. I would like to know which BJP leader's house in Karnataka has been raided," Puttaraju, who is in-charge minister of Mandya district, said. The JD(S) has assigned him to oversee the electioneering of HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy, who is fighting his maiden election from the Mandya Lok Sabha seat. The chief minister Wednesday warned that he would follow what his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee did to counter the 'misuse' of central agencies. Banerjee had staged a "Save the Constitution" dharna from February 3 to 5 in Kolkata after the CBI's failed bid to question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund cases. Puttaraju said soon a meeting will be convened where mode of protest against these raids will be decided. Sources in the Congress said raids have been carried out at least 10 to 15 places in the city and elsewhere without giving details. Income Tax officials were not available for comments.

I-T officials carry out raids on Karnataka minister Puttaraju's residence

During&nbsp;a Congress workers meeting, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her desire to contest the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/blog-cattle-problem-in-up-can-impact-bjps-prospects-in-2019-lok-sabha-elections-206289">Lok Sabha elections</a>. Priyanka at present is holding workers meeting in Amethi and Rae Bareli, the Gandhi family bastion.&nbsp;

In one such meeting, a worker asked Priyanka Gandhi to contest the Lok Sabha elections, she shot back, smiling and retorted, "Why not Varanasi?”&nbsp;

This statement has set the cat among&nbsp;the pigeons. Priyanka Gandhi had expressed the same sentiment on Wednesday and answered in response to a question that she would definitely like to contest the Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections if the party fields her. She also added that&nbsp;she is a full-time politician now and there is no looking back. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh and handles the party's campaign in the state.

It also raises expectations of Congress workers who want to see her in a larger and taller role. Though Priyanka maintains a low profile lest she overshadows her brother Rahul Gandhi, there is a growing clamour in the ranks to give her a bigger role within the organization.

Sources also informed to WION that Congress would also be organizing 15 to 17 joint rallies of Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in Uttar Pradesh. Some of the places identified are Prayag, Varanasi, Unnav, Saharanpur, Ghaziabad, Kanpur, Lucknow and Kushinagar.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi is on a three-day tour of Uttar Pradesh and would be visiting Ayodhya on Friday. She is also expected to visit the famous HanumanGarhi temple. On Wednesday and Thursday, she will meet booth workers in Amethi and Rae Bareli.

During a Congress workers meeting, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her desire to contest the Lok Sabha elections. Priyanka at present is holding workers meeting in Amethi and Rae Bareli, the Gandhi family bastion.

During a Congress workers meeting, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her desire to contest the Lok Sabha elections. Priyanka at present is holding workers meeting in Amethi and Rae Bareli, the Gandhi family bastion. In one such meeting, a worker asked Priyanka Gandhi to contest the Lok Sabha elections, she shot back, smiling and retorted, "Why not Varanasi?” This statement has set the cat among the pigeons. Priyanka Gandhi had expressed the same sentiment on Wednesday and answered in response to a question that she would definitely like to contest the Lok Sabha elections if the party fields her. She also added that she is a full-time politician now and there is no looking back. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh and handles the party's campaign in the state. It also raises expectations of Congress workers who want to see her in a larger and taller role. Though Priyanka maintains a low profile lest she overshadows her brother Rahul Gandhi, there is a growing clamour in the ranks to give her a bigger role within the organization. Sources also informed to WION that Congress would also be organizing 15 to 17 joint rallies of Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in Uttar Pradesh. Some of the places identified are Prayag, Varanasi, Unnav, Saharanpur, Ghaziabad, Kanpur, Lucknow and Kushinagar. Priyanka Gandhi is on a three-day tour of Uttar Pradesh and would be visiting Ayodhya on Friday. She is also expected to visit the famous HanumanGarhi temple. On Wednesday and Thursday, she will meet booth workers in Amethi and Rae Bareli.

'Why not Varanasi?' Priyanka Gandhi hints at contesting Lok Sabha polls

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options</a>

British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal.

The biggest vote against was against a second referendum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">Masood Azhar listing as global terrorist: </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142"> circulates </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">draft</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142"> resolution to United Nations Security Council</a>

The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-pompeo-saddened-by-italy-joining-chinas-belt-and-road-project-206132">US's Pompeo 'saddened' by Italy joining China's Belt and Road project</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest.

Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brunei-to-punish-gay-sex-and-adultery-with-death-by-stoning-206138">Brunei to punish gay sex and adultery with death by stoning</a>

Adultery and gay sex in Brunei will be subject to death by stoning from next week, authorities said, under a strict Sharia law that has been on hold for four years amid heavy criticism.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-saudi-trial-detained-women-speak-of-torture-abuse-206126">Saudi women activists say they were sexually abused, tortured while detained</a>

Saudi women activists detained for almost a year offered their defence at an emotionally charged hearing on Wednesday, alleging torture and sexual harassment during interrogation, courtroom sources said.

British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal.

British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal. The biggest vote against was against a second referendum. Masood Azhar listing as global terrorist: US circulates draft resolution to United Nations Security Council The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move. US's Pompeo 'saddened' by Italy joining China's Belt and Road project US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest. Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project. Brunei to punish gay sex and adultery with death by stoning Adultery and gay sex in Brunei will be subject to death by stoning from next week, authorities said, under a strict Sharia law that has been on hold for four years amid heavy criticism. Saudi women activists say they were sexually abused, tortured while detained Saudi women activists detained for almost a year offered their defence at an emotionally charged hearing on Wednesday, alleging torture and sexual harassment during interrogation, courtroom sources said.

At least 83 per cent of 521 sitting MPs are ‘crorepatis’ and 33 per cent of them have criminal cases against them, according to a report by election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).&nbsp;

The ADR, an NGO working in electoral reforms, has compiled the report after analysing self-sworn affidavits of the 521 MPs out of 543 members elected to the Lok Sabha in the 2014 elections.

“Out of the 521 Sitting MPs analysed, 430 (83 pc) are crorepatis. While 227 of them are from BJP, 37 are from Congress, 29 from AIADMK, among others,” the report said.

The average assets per sitting MP for Lok Sabha 2014 elections are Rs 14.72 crore.

While 32 sitting MPs have declared more than Rs 50 crore worth of assets, only two sitting MPs have declared assets less than worth Rs 5 lakh.

At least 33 per cent sitting MPs have declared criminal cases against them in the affidavits.

“While 106 of them have declared serious criminal cases including cases related to murder, attempt to murder, communal disharmony, kidnapping and crimes against women, 10 sitting MPs have declared cases related to murder. Out of these, 4 sitting MPs are from BJP, 1 MP from INC, NCP, LJP, RJD, Swabhimani Paksha each and one MP is an Independent,” the report said.

“14 sitting MPs have declared cases of attempt to murder. Out of these, eight sitting MPs are from BJP and one MP each from INC, AITC, NCP, RJD, Shiv Sena and Swabhimani Paksha. 14 sitting MPs declared cases related to causing communal disharmony. Out of them, 10 sitting MPs are from BJP and 1 MP from TRS, PMK, All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen and AIUDF each,” it added.

At least 83 per cent of 521 sitting MPs are ‘crorepatis’ and 33 per cent of them have criminal cases against them, according to a report by election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

At least 83 per cent of 521 sitting MPs are ‘crorepatis’ and 33 per cent of them have criminal cases against them, according to a report by election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR). The ADR, an NGO working in electoral reforms, has compiled the report after analysing self-sworn affidavits of the 521 MPs out of 543 members elected to the Lok Sabha in the 2014 elections. “Out of the 521 Sitting MPs analysed, 430 (83 pc) are crorepatis. While 227 of them are from BJP, 37 are from Congress, 29 from AIADMK, among others,” the report said. The average assets per sitting MP for Lok Sabha 2014 elections are Rs 14.72 crore. While 32 sitting MPs have declared more than Rs 50 crore worth of assets, only two sitting MPs have declared assets less than worth Rs 5 lakh. At least 33 per cent sitting MPs have declared criminal cases against them in the affidavits. “While 106 of them have declared serious criminal cases including cases related to murder, attempt to murder, communal disharmony, kidnapping and crimes against women, 10 sitting MPs have declared cases related to murder. Out of these, 4 sitting MPs are from BJP, 1 MP from INC, NCP, LJP, RJD, Swabhimani Paksha each and one MP is an Independent,” the report said. “14 sitting MPs have declared cases of attempt to murder. Out of these, eight sitting MPs are from BJP and one MP each from INC, AITC, NCP, RJD, Shiv Sena and Swabhimani Paksha. 14 sitting MPs declared cases related to causing communal disharmony. Out of them, 10 sitting MPs are from BJP and 1 MP from TRS, PMK, All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen and AIUDF each,” it added.

430 MPs out of 521 sitting MPs are ‘crorepatis’, 33% have criminal cases: Report

Kanyakumari and Sivaganga constituencies in Tamil Nadu are where one can expect a close and direct contest between candidates of the National parties BJP and Congress, in a state where the majority of seats are swept by the Dravidian parties.&nbsp;

In Kanyakumari, incumbent BJP MP Pon. Radhakrishnan would be taking on H Vasantha Kumar of the Congress, whereas it would be H.Raja(BJP) versus Karti Chidambaram in Sivaganga.

However, there is a stark contrast that appears on scrutinizing the affidavits that the candidates have filed along with their nominations. Vasantha Kumar, the Congress candidate has declared movable assets worth Rs. 230,20,95,302, whereas the immovable assets are valued at Rs. 182,25,00,000. Thus taking the total value of his assets to Rs. 412,45,95,302. he has also declared liabilities amounting to 154,75,11,439.

Vasanthakumar is a sitting MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and is a promoter of a very popular chain of consumer electronics, appliances and also a TV channel. When comparing the amount shown in his income tax returns between 2013-14 and 2017-18, it is Rs.19,87,47,960 and Rs.28,93,59,990. This is an increase of about 45%.

In the case of the BJP candidate, Pon. Radhakrishnan, he has declared moveable assets of Rs.50,56,298 and inherited assets of Rs. 6,99,40,155, while there are no liabilities mentioned. Regarding the income he has shown under the income tax returns, there is a drop from Rs. 9,67,009 (2013-14) to Rs. 7,72,850 (2017-18), while it had risen to &nbsp;Rs. 15,03,610 during 2015-16.

The candidate contesting for Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, in Kanyakumari is J.Ebenezer. The candidate who would be representing the party that is making its electoral debut has declared movable assets of Rs. 40,96,628 and immovable assets of Rs. 2,00,00,000. Under the liabilities section, the candidate has declared Rs.46,64,663. His income has gone from Rs. 5,41,928 in 2013-14 to Rs, 5,31,881 in 2017-18.

In the case of Karti Chidambaram, son of former Finance Minister P.Chidambaram who is contesting from Sivaganga, the total movable assets are declared as Rs. 24,13,73,168 and the immovable assets are declared at Rs. 22,88,89,303, whereas the liabilities are declared as Rs. 8,97,44,503.&nbsp;

H.Raja from the BJP, who would be taking on Karti in Sivaganga has declared his movable assets as Rs. 50,97,544, immovable assets as Rs. 77,90,000, and also liabilities as Nil.&nbsp;

The candidates in Kanyakumari from the major National parties and also the candidate who would be representing the debutant party Makkal Needhi Maiam are ‘crorepatis’, having declared assets that run over a crore. However, as far as the assets, liabilities declaration goes, the Congress candidate has far outnumbered his fellow contestants.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 18th, in the second phase of what would be a seven-phase poll. The ruling party in the state, the AIADMK has allied with the BJP, PMK, DMDK and other smaller outfits while the DMK which is the major opposition party in the State seemly has alliances with the Congress, Left parties and other smaller outfits.

Kanyakumari and Sivaganga constituencies in Tamil Nadu are where one can expect a close and direct contest between candidates of the National parties BJP and Congress, in a state where the majority of seats are swept by the Dravidian parties.

Kanyakumari and Sivaganga constituencies in Tamil Nadu are where one can expect a close and direct contest between candidates of the National parties BJP and Congress, in a state where the majority of seats are swept by the Dravidian parties. In Kanyakumari, incumbent BJP MP Pon. Radhakrishnan would be taking on H Vasantha Kumar of the Congress, whereas it would be H.Raja(BJP) versus Karti Chidambaram in Sivaganga. However, there is a stark contrast that appears on scrutinizing the affidavits that the candidates have filed along with their nominations. Vasantha Kumar, the Congress candidate has declared movable assets worth Rs. 230,20,95,302, whereas the immovable assets are valued at Rs. 182,25,00,000. Thus taking the total value of his assets to Rs. 412,45,95,302. he has also declared liabilities amounting to 154,75,11,439. Vasanthakumar is a sitting MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and is a promoter of a very popular chain of consumer electronics, appliances and also a TV channel. When comparing the amount shown in his income tax returns between 2013-14 and 2017-18, it is Rs.19,87,47,960 and Rs.28,93,59,990. This is an increase of about 45%. In the case of the BJP candidate, Pon. Radhakrishnan, he has declared moveable assets of Rs.50,56,298 and inherited assets of Rs. 6,99,40,155, while there are no liabilities mentioned. Regarding the income he has shown under the income tax returns, there is a drop from Rs. 9,67,009 (2013-14) to Rs. 7,72,850 (2017-18), while it had risen to Rs. 15,03,610 during 2015-16. The candidate contesting for Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, in Kanyakumari is J.Ebenezer. The candidate who would be representing the party that is making its electoral debut has declared movable assets of Rs. 40,96,628 and immovable assets of Rs. 2,00,00,000. Under the liabilities section, the candidate has declared Rs.46,64,663. His income has gone from Rs. 5,41,928 in 2013-14 to Rs, 5,31,881 in 2017-18. In the case of Karti Chidambaram, son of former Finance Minister P.Chidambaram who is contesting from Sivaganga, the total movable assets are declared as Rs. 24,13,73,168 and the immovable assets are declared at Rs. 22,88,89,303, whereas the liabilities are declared as Rs. 8,97,44,503. H.Raja from the BJP, who would be taking on Karti in Sivaganga has declared his movable assets as Rs. 50,97,544, immovable assets as Rs. 77,90,000, and also liabilities as Nil. The candidates in Kanyakumari from the major National parties and also the candidate who would be representing the debutant party Makkal Needhi Maiam are ‘crorepatis’, having declared assets that run over a crore. However, as far as the assets, liabilities declaration goes, the Congress candidate has far outnumbered his fellow contestants. Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 18th, in the second phase of what would be a seven-phase poll. The ruling party in the state, the AIADMK has allied with the BJP, PMK, DMDK and other smaller outfits while the DMK which is the major opposition party in the State seemly has alliances with the Congress, Left parties and other smaller outfits.

Congress’ Kanyakumari candidate has assets worth over Rs 420 cr, liabilities of Rs 154 cr; far outnumbers fellow contenders 

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Congress’ Kanyakumari candidate has assets worth over Rs 420 cr, liabilities of Rs 154 cr; far outnumbers fellow contenders