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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250">Maduro making </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250">terrible</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250"> mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump</a>

The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sweden-sign-agreement-for-greater-cooperation-on-technology-manufacturing-197256">India, Sweden sign key pacts on technology, manufacturing</a>

The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gully-boy-quick-review-you-dont-have-to-be-a-fan-of-hip-hop-to-like-this-film-197233">'Gully Boy' quick review: You don't have to be a fan of hip-hop to like this film</a>

'Gully Boy' is the story of an honest, diligent Murad who may share a cube-like home with his large family in Dharavi but who also harbours dreams of becoming the next big thing in hip-hop.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pak-saudi-arabia-sri-lanka-in-european-commission-blacklist-for-terror-financing-money-laundering-197258">Pak, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka in European Commission blacklist for terror financing, money laundering</a>

The European Commission had added Saudi Arabia, Panama, Nigeria and other jurisdictions to a blacklist of nations seen as posing a threat because of lax controls on terrorism financing and money laundering.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-edge-out-ajax-as-asensio-scores-late-winner-197252">Champions League: Real Madrid edge out Ajax as Asensio scores late winner</a>

Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax.

Maduro making terrible mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro.

Maduro making terrible mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro. India, Sweden sign key pacts on technology, manufacturing The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing. 'Gully Boy' quick review: You don't have to be a fan of hip-hop to like this film 'Gully Boy' is the story of an honest, diligent Murad who may share a cube-like home with his large family in Dharavi but who also harbours dreams of becoming the next big thing in hip-hop. Pak, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka in European Commission blacklist for terror financing, money laundering The European Commission had added Saudi Arabia, Panama, Nigeria and other jurisdictions to a blacklist of nations seen as posing a threat because of lax controls on terrorism financing and money laundering. Champions League: Real Madrid edge out Ajax as Asensio scores late winner Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India is participating at the Ministerial Meeting on “Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East” in Warsaw with Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran representing New Delhi.&nbsp;

The conference is being organized at the initiative of Poland and the U.S. on the subject of peace and security in West Asia.

Confirming the participation, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "India has an abiding interest in the region.&nbsp;

The region hosts a 9.2 million-strong Indian community, whose well-being and welfare is of paramount importance for us. This region is the source of over 50% of our oil and 70% of our gas needs. It is also a large trading partner, accounting for over US$ 110 billion of India’s trade in 2016-17. "

Elaborating further Raveesh said, "The emergence of terrorist groups like the ISIS poses a common challenge to India and the countries of the region. The region is also critical for our maritime security and security of the sea lanes of communication. Given our multiple interests, it was important for India to be represented in a major meeting on the region. "

There have been a number of high-level visits from India to West Asia and vice versa. Saudi Arabia's crown prince will be Mohammed bin Salman will be visiting India next week. Israeli Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited India last year and is again expected to visit India. Indian Prime Minister has also visited most of the countries in the region-- Iran, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, UAE.&nbsp;

Many Arab countries and Israel are participating in the summit. Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif has slammed the summit calling it "Warsaw Circus".

India is participating at the Ministerial Meeting on “Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East” in Warsaw with Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran representing New Delhi.

India is participating at the Ministerial Meeting on “Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East” in Warsaw with Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran representing New Delhi. The conference is being organized at the initiative of Poland and the U.S. on the subject of peace and security in West Asia. Confirming the participation, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "India has an abiding interest in the region. The region hosts a 9.2 million-strong Indian community, whose well-being and welfare is of paramount importance for us. This region is the source of over 50% of our oil and 70% of our gas needs. It is also a large trading partner, accounting for over US$ 110 billion of India’s trade in 2016-17. " Elaborating further Raveesh said, "The emergence of terrorist groups like the ISIS poses a common challenge to India and the countries of the region. The region is also critical for our maritime security and security of the sea lanes of communication. Given our multiple interests, it was important for India to be represented in a major meeting on the region. " There have been a number of high-level visits from India to West Asia and vice versa. Saudi Arabia's crown prince will be Mohammed bin Salman will be visiting India next week. Israeli Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited India last year and is again expected to visit India. Indian Prime Minister has also visited most of the countries in the region-- Iran, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, UAE. Many Arab countries and Israel are participating in the summit. Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif has slammed the summit calling it "Warsaw Circus".

Warsaw summit: Deputy NSA Pankaj Saran to represent India

A 25-year-old Bangladeshi national, Mujibur Miya, has been arrested by the personnel of the Border Interaction Team of 41 Battalion of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Panitanki checkpoint in Siliguri for illegally entering India, reported news agency ANI.

Miya, a driver, illegally entered India from Khilli Border area of Bangladesh, the report added.

Police found bus tickets of his journey from Bangladesh to India in his possession.

In a separate incident on February 13, &nbsp;two persons of Cameroon origin were arrested in Panitanki by BIT personnel of 41 Bn. SSB, Ranidanga, when they had illegally entered Nepal and were on their way to India, the report added.

A 25-year-old Bangladeshi national, Mujibur Miya, has been arrested by the personnel of the Border Interaction Team of 41 Battalion of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Panitanki checkpoint in Siliguri for illegally entering India, reported news agency ANI.

A 25-year-old Bangladeshi national, Mujibur Miya, has been arrested by the personnel of the Border Interaction Team of 41 Battalion of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Panitanki checkpoint in Siliguri for illegally entering India, reported news agency ANI. Miya, a driver, illegally entered India from Khilli Border area of Bangladesh, the report added. Police found bus tickets of his journey from Bangladesh to India in his possession. In a separate incident on February 13, two persons of Cameroon origin were arrested in Panitanki by BIT personnel of 41 Bn. SSB, Ranidanga, when they had illegally entered Nepal and were on their way to India, the report added.

Bangladeshi national arrested for illegally entering India

Ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to India next week, India's cabinet approved three Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Saudi Arabia in tourism, investment and Customs matters.

The MoU on establishing a mechanism for investment infrastructure in India will help give a platform to institutions of Saudi Arabia to attract potential investment into the infrastructure sector in the country.

A government release said, "It will lead to boosting infrastructure development in the country, creation of more jobs, growth of ancillary industries/sectors which will lead to growth in GDP and overall economic prosperity."

The MoU on tourism will help to organise joint tourism events, participate in exhibitions, encourage mutual tourism investment in tourism projects among other things.

Saudi Arabia is one of the potential tourist generating market for India from West Asia and the signing of MoU with Riyadh will be instrumental in increasing arrival from this source market.

The MoU on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters will help in making available, reliable, quick and cost-effective information and intelligence for the prevention and investigation of customs offences and apprehending of customs offenders.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince will visit India on February 19, 20, 2019. He met the Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi in November of 2018 in Argentina on the sidelines of G20 summit.

Ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to India next week, India's cabinet approved three Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Saudi Arabia in tourism, investment and Customs matters.

Ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to India next week, India's cabinet approved three Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Saudi Arabia in tourism, investment and Customs matters. The MoU on establishing a mechanism for investment infrastructure in India will help give a platform to institutions of Saudi Arabia to attract potential investment into the infrastructure sector in the country. A government release said, "It will lead to boosting infrastructure development in the country, creation of more jobs, growth of ancillary industries/sectors which will lead to growth in GDP and overall economic prosperity." The MoU on tourism will help to organise joint tourism events, participate in exhibitions, encourage mutual tourism investment in tourism projects among other things. Saudi Arabia is one of the potential tourist generating market for India from West Asia and the signing of MoU with Riyadh will be instrumental in increasing arrival from this source market. The MoU on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters will help in making available, reliable, quick and cost-effective information and intelligence for the prevention and investigation of customs offences and apprehending of customs offenders. Saudi Arabia's crown prince will visit India on February 19, 20, 2019. He met the Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi in November of 2018 in Argentina on the sidelines of G20 summit.

Ahead of Saudi Crown Prince's India visit, cabinet gives nod for MoUs with Riyadh

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">Awantipora: CRPF convoy hit by explosives-laden vehicle, several jawans killed</a>

At least 20 CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-and-india-hold-talks-to-calm-trade-tensions-197411">US and India hold talks to calm trade tensions</a>

US and Indian government officials pressed on with talks on Thursday to resolve their differences over trade and investment, Indian government sources said, even though US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross called off his visit because of bad weather at home.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-blames-us-israel-for-attack-on-elite-guards-report-197439">Iran President Hassan Rouhani blames </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-blames-us-israel-for-attack-on-elite-guards-report-197439">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-blames-us-israel-for-attack-on-elite-guards-report-197439">, Israel for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-blames-us-israel-for-attack-on-elite-guards-report-197439">attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-blames-us-israel-for-attack-on-elite-guards-report-197439"> on elite Guards that killed 27: Report</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani blamed the United States and its regional allies on Thursday for a suicide bombing in southeastern Iran that killed 27 members of the country's elite Revolutionary Guards, Iranian state TV reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-group-says-trump-trade-tariffs-cost-businesses-27-billion-in-november-197404">US group says Trump trade tariffs cost businesses $2.7 billion in November</a>

The US businesses paid an additional $2.7 billion in tariffs in November 2018, according to data from a coalition of US business groups fighting President Donald Trump's trade tariffs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401">Thai court to consider </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401">ban</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401"> on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401">party</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401"> that nominated princess Ubolratana for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401">upcoming</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thai-court-to-hear-case-against-party-behind-princess-political-bid-197401"> general election</a>

Thailand's Constitutional Court announced on Thursday it will consider a ban on a party that nominated princess for prime minister, raising the prospect of a further setback for opposition chances in a general election.

&nbsp;

Awantipora: CRPF convoy hit by explosives-laden vehicle, several jawans killed At least 20 CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling.

Awantipora: CRPF convoy hit by explosives-laden vehicle, several jawans killed At least 20 CRPF jawans were killed on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama after a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the bus they were travelling. US and India hold talks to calm trade tensions US and Indian government officials pressed on with talks on Thursday to resolve their differences over trade and investment, Indian government sources said, even though US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross called off his visit because of bad weather at home. Iran President Hassan Rouhani blames US, Israel for attack on elite Guards that killed 27: Report Iranian President Hassan Rouhani blamed the United States and its regional allies on Thursday for a suicide bombing in southeastern Iran that killed 27 members of the country's elite Revolutionary Guards, Iranian state TV reported. US group says Trump trade tariffs cost businesses $2.7 billion in November The US businesses paid an additional $2.7 billion in tariffs in November 2018, according to data from a coalition of US business groups fighting President Donald Trump's trade tariffs. Thai court to consider ban on party that nominated princess Ubolratana for upcoming general election Thailand's Constitutional Court announced on Thursday it will consider a ban on a party that nominated princess for prime minister, raising the prospect of a further setback for opposition chances in a general election.

Urban local bodies and state development authorities should be made responsible for any delay in giving approvals to real estate projects, just as developers are held accountable for not completing houses on time under the new reaity law RERA, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday.

Addressing a real estate conference organised by CREDAI here, he asked developers to evolve an internal self-regulation mechanism and improve their image that has taken a hit due to wrongdoings of certain players. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"Delivery of project on time is important. Approval by the government and the municipal agency is equally important. They also have responsibility. When you want to make real estate companies accountable for the delay, you also make local bodies responsible for the delays," Naidu said.

Stressing on the need for ease of doing business, he said the central and state authorities should facilitate steady growth of the real estate sector.

 
Naidu also favoured online approvals for realty projects and asked builders to go for digital transactions.&nbsp;

Real estate developers have been demanding for a long time that development authorities should also be brought under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), which is being implemented from May 2017. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Naidu said the real estate sector is showing signs of revival with the implementation of the RERA and GST. However, he expressed concern over high land prices that make projects unviable.

Highlighting the importance of the property market, he said: "Real estate sector is an important sector of our economy that contributes 7.9 per cent to the GDP of the country. Being the second largest job provider in the economy after agriculture, the entire country has a stake in the real estate sector."

Around 50 million people are employed in the construction sector, which is likely to reach 67 million by 2022, the Vice President said, adding that developers should focus on skilling their workforce.

"In recent times, the sector has come under severe scrutiny from apex court and consumer right bodies due to some unethical practices followed by certain players," he noted.

The growth of NPA in the real estate industry has only not affected banks but also dried up credit to this sector, he added.

He also termed as "very disturbing" a recent CAG report which said that 95 per cent of developers does not have mandatory PAN.&nbsp;

Asking developers to take corrective action, he said industry bodies like CREDAI should institutionalise internal self-regulation.

"Unless you take internal correctives unless you evolve a code of conduct and unless you do your business on ethics, the sector and country cannot prosper. The country cannot suffer because of the wrongdoings of some people. Few black sheep are spoiling the atmosphere," Naidu said.

The Vice President favoured a code of conduct in every sector, including for politicians, parliamentarians and media. "Media is becoming sensational, which means senseless," he quipped.

Urban local bodies and state development authorities should be made responsible for any delay in giving approvals to real estate projects, just as developers are held accountable for not completing houses on time under the new reaity law RERA, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday.

Urban local bodies and state development authorities should be made responsible for any delay in giving approvals to real estate projects, just as developers are held accountable for not completing houses on time under the new reaity law RERA, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday. Addressing a real estate conference organised by CREDAI here, he asked developers to evolve an internal self-regulation mechanism and improve their image that has taken a hit due to wrongdoings of certain players. "Delivery of project on time is important. Approval by the government and the municipal agency is equally important. They also have responsibility. When you want to make real estate companies accountable for the delay, you also make local bodies responsible for the delays," Naidu said. Stressing on the need for ease of doing business, he said the central and state authorities should facilitate steady growth of the real estate sector. Naidu also favoured online approvals for realty projects and asked builders to go for digital transactions. Real estate developers have been demanding for a long time that development authorities should also be brought under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), which is being implemented from May 2017. Naidu said the real estate sector is showing signs of revival with the implementation of the RERA and GST. However, he expressed concern over high land prices that make projects unviable. Highlighting the importance of the property market, he said: "Real estate sector is an important sector of our economy that contributes 7.9 per cent to the GDP of the country. Being the second largest job provider in the economy after agriculture, the entire country has a stake in the real estate sector." Around 50 million people are employed in the construction sector, which is likely to reach 67 million by 2022, the Vice President said, adding that developers should focus on skilling their workforce. "In recent times, the sector has come under severe scrutiny from apex court and consumer right bodies due to some unethical practices followed by certain players," he noted. The growth of NPA in the real estate industry has only not affected banks but also dried up credit to this sector, he added. He also termed as "very disturbing" a recent CAG report which said that 95 per cent of developers does not have mandatory PAN. Asking developers to take corrective action, he said industry bodies like CREDAI should institutionalise internal self-regulation. "Unless you take internal correctives unless you evolve a code of conduct and unless you do your business on ethics, the sector and country cannot prosper. The country cannot suffer because of the wrongdoings of some people. Few black sheep are spoiling the atmosphere," Naidu said. The Vice President favoured a code of conduct in every sector, including for politicians, parliamentarians and media. "Media is becoming sensational, which means senseless," he quipped.

State agencies should be held responsible for delaying approvals to realty projects, says Naidu

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-case-delhi-court-sends-rajeev-saxena-to-judicial-custody-till-february-18-orders-his-medical-check-up-196928">AgustaWestland case</a>.

Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajiv-saxena-accused-in-agustawestland-case-to-be-extradited-from-dubai-sources-193950">Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena.</a>

The ED has alleged that Talwar was involved in cases related to corporate lobbying. Last week, he was extradited to India in cases involving alleged routing and misuse of Rs 90 crore.&nbsp;

He is the main accused who allegedly facilitated dispersal of profit making routes of Air India to private airlines using his contacts.

On January 31, the Patiala House Court granted a seven-day custodial remand of Talwar to the ED after he was produced before the Special Judge S S Mann.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with AgustaWestland case. Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with AgustaWestland case. Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena. The ED has alleged that Talwar was involved in cases related to corporate lobbying. Last week, he was extradited to India in cases involving alleged routing and misuse of Rs 90 crore. He is the main accused who allegedly facilitated dispersal of profit making routes of Air India to private airlines using his contacts. On January 31, the Patiala House Court granted a seven-day custodial remand of Talwar to the ED after he was produced before the Special Judge S S Mann.

AgustaWestland case: Delhi Court sends Deepak Talwar to 14-day judicial custody

Batteries and flashlights maker Eveready Industries Thursday reported a multi-fold decline in standalone net profit to Rs 19.71 lakh in the third quarter ended December 31, hit by the cost of separation workers at Chennai plant.

The company had posted a standalone net profit of Rs 20.94 crore in the same quarter last fiscal, Eveready Industries said in a regulatory filing.

Total income during the period under review stood at Rs 387.81 crore as against Rs 373.8 crore in the year-ago quarter, it added.

Eveready Industries said it incurred Rs 23.21 crore in the voluntary retirement scheme for workmen (VRS) at its manufacturing facility at Tiruvottiyur, in Chennai.

The VRS was completed during the quarter and after its completion, the company had in December agreed to sell the land to Alwarpet Properties Pvt Ltd for Rs 100 crore.

The company said it has received Rs 25 crore during the quarter, as per payment terms of the sale agreement.

The recurring annualised savings following the VRS is around Rs 15 crore, it added.

During the third quarter, the company said its battery volume grew by 6.2 per cent.

"This growth seems to be a heartening turnaround in context of some signs of slow-down in dumped imports from China...," it said.

The turnover for lighting segment for the quarter stood at Rs 88.1 crore, down around 11 per cent, partially due to supply constraints as well as unit price decrease in bulbs, it said.

Batteries and flashlights maker Eveready Industries Thursday reported a multi-fold decline in standalone net profit to Rs 19.71 lakh in the third quarter ended December 31, hit by the cost of separation workers at Chennai plant.

Batteries and flashlights maker Eveready Industries Thursday reported a multi-fold decline in standalone net profit to Rs 19.71 lakh in the third quarter ended December 31, hit by the cost of separation workers at Chennai plant. The company had posted a standalone net profit of Rs 20.94 crore in the same quarter last fiscal, Eveready Industries said in a regulatory filing. Total income during the period under review stood at Rs 387.81 crore as against Rs 373.8 crore in the year-ago quarter, it added. Eveready Industries said it incurred Rs 23.21 crore in the voluntary retirement scheme for workmen (VRS) at its manufacturing facility at Tiruvottiyur, in Chennai. The VRS was completed during the quarter and after its completion, the company had in December agreed to sell the land to Alwarpet Properties Pvt Ltd for Rs 100 crore. The company said it has received Rs 25 crore during the quarter, as per payment terms of the sale agreement. The recurring annualised savings following the VRS is around Rs 15 crore, it added. During the third quarter, the company said its battery volume grew by 6.2 per cent. "This growth seems to be a heartening turnaround in context of some signs of slow-down in dumped imports from China...," it said. The turnover for lighting segment for the quarter stood at Rs 88.1 crore, down around 11 per cent, partially due to supply constraints as well as unit price decrease in bulbs, it said.

Eveready Industries posts multi-fold dip in Q3 net to Rs 19.71 lakh

Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi on Thursday defended her decision to enforce the helmet rule in Puducherry, saying that Chief Minister V Narayanasamy’s wife died in a two-wheeler accident, but he is now calling her autocratic for telling people to wear a helmet.“His wife died in a road accident because she wasn’t wearing a helmet while riding a scooter.

That was a few years ago. It is tragic... If I go on the road and I tell people to wear a helmet, he says it’s autocratic,” Bedi said while talking to the media here.

Criticising the agitation being led by Narayanasamy, she said that the Chief Minister should have waited for her reply after writing a letter on several issues.“He (CM) wrote a letter to me on February 7 on 36 issues, some of which don`t exist or have been settled.

I received it on February 8. Yesterday, he sits on a dharna saying he demands a reply. The letter didn`t say that if you don`t reply by February 13, I will sit on a dharna,” Bedi said.

The L-G also said that she has already invited the Chief Minister for a discussion on the issues.“I wrote to him (Puducherry CM) a letter that `you are welcome to come and see me on February 21 at 10 am, as I am on a tour till February 20 starting today. I will return on February 20 midnight. And tell me what could be more right.&nbsp;

He is still sitting there. He isn`t allowing people to wear a helmet. One Puducherry citizen dies every third day. I have asked the police to enforce the decision. He is committing contempt of court and I am only carrying out my duty,” Bedi said.

Bedi has been at loggerheads with the Puducherry government on various issues with Narayanasamy accusing her of delaying clearance to welfare schemes and bypassing the elected government.

Since Wednesday evening, the Puducherry Chief Minister is sitting on protest in front of Raj Nivas and is demanding that the central government should recall the Governor.&nbsp;

Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi on Thursday defended her decision to enforce the helmet rule in Puducherry, saying that Chief Minister V Narayanasamy’s wife died in a two-wheeler accident, but he is now calling her autocratic for telling people to wear a helmet.

Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi on Thursday defended her decision to enforce the helmet rule in Puducherry, saying that Chief Minister V Narayanasamy’s wife died in a two-wheeler accident, but he is now calling her autocratic for telling people to wear a helmet.“His wife died in a road accident because she wasn’t wearing a helmet while riding a scooter. That was a few years ago. It is tragic... If I go on the road and I tell people to wear a helmet, he says it’s autocratic,” Bedi said while talking to the media here. Criticising the agitation being led by Narayanasamy, she said that the Chief Minister should have waited for her reply after writing a letter on several issues.“He (CM) wrote a letter to me on February 7 on 36 issues, some of which don`t exist or have been settled. I received it on February 8. Yesterday, he sits on a dharna saying he demands a reply. The letter didn`t say that if you don`t reply by February 13, I will sit on a dharna,” Bedi said. The L-G also said that she has already invited the Chief Minister for a discussion on the issues.“I wrote to him (Puducherry CM) a letter that `you are welcome to come and see me on February 21 at 10 am, as I am on a tour till February 20 starting today. I will return on February 20 midnight. And tell me what could be more right. He is still sitting there. He isn`t allowing people to wear a helmet. One Puducherry citizen dies every third day. I have asked the police to enforce the decision. He is committing contempt of court and I am only carrying out my duty,” Bedi said. Bedi has been at loggerheads with the Puducherry government on various issues with Narayanasamy accusing her of delaying clearance to welfare schemes and bypassing the elected government. Since Wednesday evening, the Puducherry Chief Minister is sitting on protest in front of Raj Nivas and is demanding that the central government should recall the Governor.

CM’s wife died as she was not wearing helmet, still obstructing enforcement of rule: Kiran Bedi

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues.&nbsp;

This is the profile of 35-year old Sneha Parthibaraja, an advocate based out of Tirupattur in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district. But there is an interesting tale behind this certificate, which leads us to her childhood.&nbsp;

She is the eldest daughter of Aanandkrishnan and Manimozhi, an inter-caste couple who got married without following any wedding rituals or traditions. As opposed to the tradition of using the first letter of the father’s name as one’s initial, she carries the first letters of her mother’s and father’s names respectively. Hence she is M A Sneha. &nbsp;

Her first brush with caste and religion was in school. While she was in her First standard, the school authorities questioned her parents about her caste, when they replied that she had none. They asked for her religion, to which they again replied in the negative. This trend continued all through her formative years, even during college, she had left the Caste and religion columns blank, while filling up the application forms. Speaking to WION she said, “our friends and relatives have always supported this way of life and I was considered a role model in school.”

<img alt="Sneha-certi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30e26ecd-66ac-4b48-9632-39d6679febc8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/certificate.JPG" />

This upbringing wasn’t just limited to her, her younger sisters Mumtaj Suriya and Jennifer were also given names that belonged to different faiths. Sneha added that this upbringing wasn’t without challenges and taunts, their family would often get asked how they would get the girls married off and how they would avail reservation benefits without a caste certificate or faith in religion. Despite all of it, Sneha followed her parent's footsteps, she married Professor Parthiba Raja, in a ceremony sans religious and caste based-rituals.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sneha-family" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b2d41f6-d91c-4eb3-9528-457602210930" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190214-WA0063.jpg" />

The couple has three daughters, Aathira Nazreen, Aathila Irene and Aarifa Jessy who have been named in a manner that transcends religion and caste identities. She may be an outlier in a society that demands Caste certificates almost everywhere, but her strong belief in the ideals of Karl Marx, Dr Ambedkar and Periyar has been the prime motivation.&nbsp;

On realizing that there are certificates for those that follow the caste system, but none for those like Sneha who do not follow either religion or caste.&nbsp;

That’s when the quest for a ‘No Caste, No Religion’ Certificate began. In her struggle for the certificate, she was faced with Government officials who claimed that they lacked the power and authority to issue such a certificate.&nbsp;

Sneha said that between 2010-17 she had given 5 requisition letters to seek the Certificate, but all of them went in vain. The scenario changed when she finally applied for a community certificate by following due procedure via the Village Administrative Officer and Tahsildar, while also explaining her objective.&nbsp;

But all of her efforts attained fruition on February 5th when the Tirupattur Tahsildar TS Sathiyamoorthy issued the certificate on 5th February.&nbsp;

“I see this certificate as a recognition of the system that we have been following as a family”, she told WION.&nbsp;

However, she also clarifies that they are in no way against the reservation system. She believes that Reservation has been a boon for the oppressed castes. Our battle is against oppression but not caste reservation, she adds.

Speaking about the certificate, her husband Parthiba Raja said, “This system of not following religion or caste is what brought us together in life. From a young age she has been fighting this battle, now we are delighted that she has got formal recognition. We have also been getting calls and queries from like-minded people on how they could apply for this certificate”.&nbsp;

He adds, “We want a caste-free society that accepts people as they are. We are for social justice. Until we have a truly caste-free society, the oppressed people must assert their caste identity and avail reservations and better opportunities.”&nbsp;

Sneha’s feat has gained more traction after Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan tweeted out a picture of her and congratulated her. Since then wishes have been pouring in from social media platforms, hailing her revolutionary step. As word spreads about this unique and unprecedented development, many more applicants could follow suit.

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues.

A post on her Facebook wall reads, “Received a No Caste, No Religion Government certificate”. This post is followed by innumerable congratulatory posts by her friends and colleagues. This is the profile of 35-year old Sneha Parthibaraja, an advocate based out of Tirupattur in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district. But there is an interesting tale behind this certificate, which leads us to her childhood. She is the eldest daughter of Aanandkrishnan and Manimozhi, an inter-caste couple who got married without following any wedding rituals or traditions. As opposed to the tradition of using the first letter of the father’s name as one’s initial, she carries the first letters of her mother’s and father’s names respectively. Hence she is M A Sneha. Her first brush with caste and religion was in school. While she was in her First standard, the school authorities questioned her parents about her caste, when they replied that she had none. They asked for her religion, to which they again replied in the negative. This trend continued all through her formative years, even during college, she had left the Caste and religion columns blank, while filling up the application forms. Speaking to WION she said, “our friends and relatives have always supported this way of life and I was considered a role model in school.” This upbringing wasn’t just limited to her, her younger sisters Mumtaj Suriya and Jennifer were also given names that belonged to different faiths. Sneha added that this upbringing wasn’t without challenges and taunts, their family would often get asked how they would get the girls married off and how they would avail reservation benefits without a caste certificate or faith in religion. Despite all of it, Sneha followed her parent's footsteps, she married Professor Parthiba Raja, in a ceremony sans religious and caste based-rituals. The couple has three daughters, Aathira Nazreen, Aathila Irene and Aarifa Jessy who have been named in a manner that transcends religion and caste identities. She may be an outlier in a society that demands Caste certificates almost everywhere, but her strong belief in the ideals of Karl Marx, Dr Ambedkar and Periyar has been the prime motivation. On realizing that there are certificates for those that follow the caste system, but none for those like Sneha who do not follow either religion or caste. That’s when the quest for a ‘No Caste, No Religion’ Certificate began. In her struggle for the certificate, she was faced with Government officials who claimed that they lacked the power and authority to issue such a certificate. Sneha said that between 2010-17 she had given 5 requisition letters to seek the Certificate, but all of them went in vain. The scenario changed when she finally applied for a community certificate by following due procedure via the Village Administrative Officer and Tahsildar, while also explaining her objective. But all of her efforts attained fruition on February 5th when the Tirupattur Tahsildar TS Sathiyamoorthy issued the certificate on 5th February. “I see this certificate as a recognition of the system that we have been following as a family”, she told WION. However, she also clarifies that they are in no way against the reservation system. She believes that Reservation has been a boon for the oppressed castes. Our battle is against oppression but not caste reservation, she adds. Speaking about the certificate, her husband Parthiba Raja said, “This system of not following religion or caste is what brought us together in life. From a young age she has been fighting this battle, now we are delighted that she has got formal recognition. We have also been getting calls and queries from like-minded people on how they could apply for this certificate”. He adds, “We want a caste-free society that accepts people as they are. We are for social justice. Until we have a truly caste-free society, the oppressed people must assert their caste identity and avail reservations and better opportunities.” Sneha’s feat has gained more traction after Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan tweeted out a picture of her and congratulated her. Since then wishes have been pouring in from social media platforms, hailing her revolutionary step. As word spreads about this unique and unprecedented development, many more applicants could follow suit.

Sneha Parthibaraja, India's first woman without religion, without caste

The iconic Kalashnikov rifle — arguably the world's favourite assault rifle — will now be made in India. &nbsp;

The Centre cleared a proposal Thursday for 750,000 Kalashnikov rifles to be manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board in a joint venture with a Russian firm.&nbsp;

A plant to manufacture the Kalashnikovs will be set up in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

The Kalashnikov made in Amethi will be the AK-203, a derivative of the famous AK-47.&nbsp;

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Centre today cleared 7.47 lakh assault Kalashnikov rifles to be built by Ordnance Factory Board and Russian Joint venture firm. Plant to be set up near Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. <a href="https://t.co/RpGUZZQ1Fs">pic.twitter.com/RpGUZZQ1Fs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095744471055032320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This comes just after the Centre announced that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signs-rs-700-crore-contract-with-us-firm-for-72400-assault-rifles-to-replace-insas-196981">it was buying 72,400 Sig Sauer rifles</a>. The purchase of the Sig Sauers are being fast-tracked, and they will all be delivered within 12 months.&nbsp;

News reports have said the Sig Sauer rifles will be used by Indian security forces along the China border.&nbsp;

The government recently also bought the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which too will be deployed along India's China border.&nbsp;

India shares a 3,380-kilometre land border with China.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The iconic Kalashnikov rifle — arguably the world's favourite assault rifle — will now be made in India. The Centre cleared a proposal Thursday for 750,000 Kalashnikov rifles to be manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board in a joint venture with a Russian firm.

The iconic Kalashnikov rifle — arguably the world's favourite assault rifle — will now be made in India. The Centre cleared a proposal Thursday for 750,000 Kalashnikov rifles to be manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board in a joint venture with a Russian firm. A plant to manufacture the Kalashnikovs will be set up in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. The Kalashnikov made in Amethi will be the AK-203, a derivative of the famous AK-47. Centre today cleared 7.47 lakh assault Kalashnikov rifles to be built by Ordnance Factory Board and Russian Joint venture firm. Plant to be set up near Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/RpGUZZQ1Fs — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × This comes just after the Centre announced that it was buying 72,400 Sig Sauer rifles. The purchase of the Sig Sauers are being fast-tracked, and they will all be delivered within 12 months. News reports have said the Sig Sauer rifles will be used by Indian security forces along the China border. The government recently also bought the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which too will be deployed along India's China border. India shares a 3,380-kilometre land border with China.

Government clears proposal for 750,000 Kalashnikov rifles to be made in India

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Thursday hit out at the Congress, accusing the party of settling refugees in protected lands in the Northeast and using illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank.&nbsp;

Rijiju said the BJP and the NDA government will do its best to protect the linguistic and cultural identities of the indigenous people of the Northeast.&nbsp;

“It is tragic that Congress did blunder by settling refugees in protected lands and made all illegal infiltrators from Bangladesh as their vote bank. We won’t allow it anymore,” he told reporters here.

The Union minister of state for home hails from Arunachal Pradesh, where several thousand Chakma refugees have been allegedly settled during the then Congress government.&nbsp;

Local people of Arunachal Pradesh have been opposing the “settlement” of Chakma refugees, who came from Bangladesh, in the state.

The issue of illegal immigration has been dominating the political landscape for several decades in Assam, which has witnessed an influx of people from neighbouring Bangladesh since the early 20th century.&nbsp;

A six-year agitation demanding identification and deportation of illegal immigrants was launched by the AASU in 1979. It culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord on August 15, 1985.

During the update of the NRC, a massive Supreme Court-monitored exercise to identify genuine Indian nationals living in Assam, have excluded over 40 lakh people from the draft list published on July 30, creating a huge political controversy.&nbsp;

Illegal immigration is also a major cause of concern for the people of Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Thursday hit out at the Congress, accusing the party of settling refugees in protected lands in the Northeast and using illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Thursday hit out at the Congress, accusing the party of settling refugees in protected lands in the Northeast and using illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank. Rijiju said the BJP and the NDA government will do its best to protect the linguistic and cultural identities of the indigenous people of the Northeast. “It is tragic that Congress did blunder by settling refugees in protected lands and made all illegal infiltrators from Bangladesh as their vote bank. We won’t allow it anymore,” he told reporters here. The Union minister of state for home hails from Arunachal Pradesh, where several thousand Chakma refugees have been allegedly settled during the then Congress government. Local people of Arunachal Pradesh have been opposing the “settlement” of Chakma refugees, who came from Bangladesh, in the state. The issue of illegal immigration has been dominating the political landscape for several decades in Assam, which has witnessed an influx of people from neighbouring Bangladesh since the early 20th century. A six-year agitation demanding identification and deportation of illegal immigrants was launched by the AASU in 1979. It culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord on August 15, 1985. During the update of the NRC, a massive Supreme Court-monitored exercise to identify genuine Indian nationals living in Assam, have excluded over 40 lakh people from the draft list published on July 30, creating a huge political controversy. Illegal immigration is also a major cause of concern for the people of Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura.

Kiren Rijiju accuses Congress of using illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators as vote bank in Northeast

A Delhi court Thursday granted seven days interim bail to Rajeev Saxena, who was arrested in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland money-laundering case, on two sureties of Rs 5 lakh each.&nbsp;

Special Judge Arvind Kumar, while granting Saxena bail, asked AIIMS to file a detailed medical report on his health and posted the matter for February 22 when the case would be next heard.

The Enforcement Directorate, which had supported his bail plea yesterday, said the medical report submitted by AIIMS was not detailed.&nbsp;

Saxena had sought bail on medical grounds and told the court that he was suffering from a "heart disease" and "advanced-stage leukaemia" (blood cancer).&nbsp;

A Delhi court Thursday granted seven days interim bail to Rajeev Saxena, who was arrested in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland money-laundering case, on two sureties of Rs 5 lakh each.

A Delhi court Thursday granted seven days interim bail to Rajeev Saxena, who was arrested in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland money-laundering case, on two sureties of Rs 5 lakh each. Special Judge Arvind Kumar, while granting Saxena bail, asked AIIMS to file a detailed medical report on his health and posted the matter for February 22 when the case would be next heard. The Enforcement Directorate, which had supported his bail plea yesterday, said the medical report submitted by AIIMS was not detailed. Saxena had sought bail on medical grounds and told the court that he was suffering from a "heart disease" and "advanced-stage leukaemia" (blood cancer).

VVIP chopper case: Delhi court grants 7-day interim bail to Rajeev Saxena

The Supreme Court Thursday delivered a split verdict on the contentious issue of control of services in the National Capital Territory in the tussle between the Delhi government and the Centre and referred the matter to a larger bench.

A two-judge bench comprising Justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan, however, agreed on disputes pertaining to the anti-corruption branch, setting up of the commission of inquiry, control over electricity boards, land revenue matters and appointment of public prosecutors.&nbsp;

The apex court also upheld the Centre's notification that its employees cannot be probed in corruption cases by ACB of Delhi government.

The top court also said that instead of the LG, Delhi government will have the right to appoint public prosecutors or law officers.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Thursday delivered a split verdict on the contentious issue of control of services in the National Capital Territory in the tussle between the Delhi government and the Centre and referred the matter to a larger bench.

The Supreme Court Thursday delivered a split verdict on the contentious issue of control of services in the National Capital Territory in the tussle between the Delhi government and the Centre and referred the matter to a larger bench. A two-judge bench comprising Justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan, however, agreed on disputes pertaining to the anti-corruption branch, setting up of the commission of inquiry, control over electricity boards, land revenue matters and appointment of public prosecutors. The apex court also upheld the Centre's notification that its employees cannot be probed in corruption cases by ACB of Delhi government. The top court also said that instead of the LG, Delhi government will have the right to appoint public prosecutors or law officers.

Delhi vs Centre: Supreme Court delivers split verdict on control of services, refers it to larger bench

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL.&nbsp;

The Board considered not just the financial aspects of the partnership, but also the strategic value it brings to the table.

The Board came to the conclusion that the merger would benefit all shareholders and stakeholders.&nbsp;

Punit Goenka will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after the merger of Zee Entertainment and Sony Pictures India. &nbsp; 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zeel-board-gives-go-ahead-for-merger-with-sony-pictures-networks-india-414797">ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India</a>

Talking about the mega-merger deal, Goenka said: “The mega-merger between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited and Sony Pictures Networks India will create the largest media and entertainment company in India. The merger will create close to $2 billion in revenue.” &nbsp;

He also stated that the combined business will be valued at $1.6 billion in cash. In the mega-merger, ZEEL will own 47 percent of the company. There will also be a non-binding term sheet with a 90-day mutual diligence period.”

Sony will have the opportunity to designate new promoters to the board, according to Goenka. The new board of the amalgamated firm will decide on fund infusion avenues.”&nbsp;

He also asserted that the overlaps are largely in the Hindi GEC space. However, the objective is to maximise viewership. The MD also mentioned that no open offer is required in a merger. &nbsp;

Goenka further added that the channel rationalisation call will be taken by the board of the merged entity. Similarly, the capital allocation strategy will also be taken by the board. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He mentioned that “We will first optimise revenue from the merged entity and then cost.” 
 
(Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group)

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL.

The ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Board of Directors, present and voting at its board meeting on September 21, 2021, unanimously approved the merger between Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and ZEEL. The Board considered not just the financial aspects of the partnership, but also the strategic value it brings to the table. The Board came to the conclusion that the merger would benefit all shareholders and stakeholders. Punit Goenka will continue as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after the merger of Zee Entertainment and Sony Pictures India. Also read: ZEEL board gives go-ahead for merger with Sony Pictures Networks India Talking about the mega-merger deal, Goenka said: “The mega-merger between ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited and Sony Pictures Networks India will create the largest media and entertainment company in India. The merger will create close to $2 billion in revenue.” He also stated that the combined business will be valued at $1.6 billion in cash. In the mega-merger, ZEEL will own 47 percent of the company. There will also be a non-binding term sheet with a 90-day mutual diligence period.” Sony will have the opportunity to designate new promoters to the board, according to Goenka. The new board of the amalgamated firm will decide on fund infusion avenues.” He also asserted that the overlaps are largely in the Hindi GEC space. However, the objective is to maximise viewership. The MD also mentioned that no open offer is required in a merger. Goenka further added that the channel rationalisation call will be taken by the board of the merged entity. Similarly, the capital allocation strategy will also be taken by the board. He mentioned that “We will first optimise revenue from the merged entity and then cost.” (Disclaimer: Zee Entertainment is not our sister concern/ group company. Though our names sound similar, but our company is owned by Zee Media Corporation, which is a different group)

Simultaneous Lok Sabha, Assembly polls possible in Jammu and Kashmir: Ram Madhav

Amid the ongoing controversy over Rafale deal, Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on Wednesday tabled its report on Capital Acquisitions in Indian Air Force in Rajya Sabha. The report also contained details of the Rafale deal with the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation.&nbsp;

The report said compared to the 126 aircraft deal, India managed to save 17.08 per cent&nbsp;for the India Specific Enhancements in the 36 Rafale contract.&nbsp;

The report also said that the proposed delivery schedule is better than the 126 aircraft deal.

The delivery schedule of the first 18 Rafale aircraft is better than the one proposed in the 126 aircraft deal, by five months, the CAG report further said.&nbsp;

The CAG report also said that the deal by the NDA govt was 2.86 per cent lower than the earlier UPA-era deal.

According to the&nbsp;report, a &nbsp;Defence Ministry team in March 2015 recommended the scrapping of the 126 Rafale deal saying that Dassault Aviation was not the lowest bidder and EADS (European Aeronautic Defence &amp; Space Company) was not fully compliant with the tender requirements.

The government's decision to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from French company Dassault has become a controversial political issue, with the main opposition party Congress levelling allegations of corruption and impropriety, and the ruling dispensation defending the move.

The Rafale issue was also even raised before the Supreme Court, which did not find any substance in the allegations.

However, the issue has continued to rock Parliament with Congress President Rahul Gandhi directly accusing the Prime Minister of benefiting industrialist Anil Ambani.

Meanwhile, Opposition Congress staged a protest outside the Parliament premises over Rafale deal.

Amid the ongoing controversy over Rafale deal, Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on Wednesday tabled its report on Capital Acquisitions in Indian Air Force in Rajya Sabha.

Amid the ongoing controversy over Rafale deal, Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on Wednesday tabled its report on Capital Acquisitions in Indian Air Force in Rajya Sabha. The report also contained details of the Rafale deal with the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation. The report said compared to the 126 aircraft deal, India managed to save 17.08 per cent for the India Specific Enhancements in the 36 Rafale contract. The report also said that the proposed delivery schedule is better than the 126 aircraft deal. The delivery schedule of the first 18 Rafale aircraft is better than the one proposed in the 126 aircraft deal, by five months, the CAG report further said. The CAG report also said that the deal by the NDA govt was 2.86 per cent lower than the earlier UPA-era deal. According to the report, a Defence Ministry team in March 2015 recommended the scrapping of the 126 Rafale deal saying that Dassault Aviation was not the lowest bidder and EADS (European Aeronautic Defence & Space Company) was not fully compliant with the tender requirements. The government's decision to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from French company Dassault has become a controversial political issue, with the main opposition party Congress levelling allegations of corruption and impropriety, and the ruling dispensation defending the move. The Rafale issue was also even raised before the Supreme Court, which did not find any substance in the allegations. However, the issue has continued to rock Parliament with Congress President Rahul Gandhi directly accusing the Prime Minister of benefiting industrialist Anil Ambani. Meanwhile, Opposition Congress staged a protest outside the Parliament premises over Rafale deal.

CAG report on Rafale says 17.08% saved for India Specific enhancements in 36 aircraft contract

Samajwadi Party Wednesday raised in the Lok Sabha the issue of Uttar Pradesh authorities preventing their chief Akhilesh Yadav from flying to Allahabad even as the Centre asserted that neither the government nor the BJP had any role. After Yadav was stopped at Lucknow airport, SP workers clashed with police in several parts of Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday. During the Zero Hour, Dharmendra Yadav and other SP members displayed placards to register their protest on the issue.

Yadav, whose forehead was bandaged, alleged that workers were lathicharged by UP Police on Tuesday. He claimed that members of the legislative council, workers and women, among others, were beaten up. While noting that some MPs were also beaten up, he urged Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to direct authorities to take action against police officers involved. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the SP chief was prevented from flying to Allahabad on the grounds of law and order.

The BJP and the government do not have anything to do with it, he stressed. On Tuesday, Akhilesh Yadav said he was stopped by authorities at the Lucknow airport in a bid to prevent him from visiting Allahabad, triggering outrage by party lawmakers in the state legislature and workers. During the Zero Hour, TMC members were in the Well displaying placards and shouting slogans against the government. Later, some Congress members also trooped into the Well and sought to raise the issue of Rafale deal. A member was also seen throwing paper planes.

Samajwadi Party Wednesday raised in the Lok Sabha the issue of Uttar Pradesh authorities preventing their chief Akhilesh Yadav from flying to Allahabad even as the Centre asserted that neither the government nor the BJP had any role.

Samajwadi Party Wednesday raised in the Lok Sabha the issue of Uttar Pradesh authorities preventing their chief Akhilesh Yadav from flying to Allahabad even as the Centre asserted that neither the government nor the BJP had any role. After Yadav was stopped at Lucknow airport, SP workers clashed with police in several parts of Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday. During the Zero Hour, Dharmendra Yadav and other SP members displayed placards to register their protest on the issue. Yadav, whose forehead was bandaged, alleged that workers were lathicharged by UP Police on Tuesday. He claimed that members of the legislative council, workers and women, among others, were beaten up. While noting that some MPs were also beaten up, he urged Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to direct authorities to take action against police officers involved. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the SP chief was prevented from flying to Allahabad on the grounds of law and order. The BJP and the government do not have anything to do with it, he stressed. On Tuesday, Akhilesh Yadav said he was stopped by authorities at the Lucknow airport in a bid to prevent him from visiting Allahabad, triggering outrage by party lawmakers in the state legislature and workers. During the Zero Hour, TMC members were in the Well displaying placards and shouting slogans against the government. Later, some Congress members also trooped into the Well and sought to raise the issue of Rafale deal. A member was also seen throwing paper planes.

Akhilesh Yadav detained at airport: SP MLAs raise issue in Lok Sabha, party workers clash with police

Normal life was hit in Kashmir on Wednesday due to a shutdown called by separatists to protest against the legal challenge to Article 35-A and Article 370 of the Constitution, which grant special privileges to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutional validity of the articles.&nbsp;

The two-day shutdown, which began on Wednesday, has been called by the Joint Resistance Leadership, comprising Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik.

Shops, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut in Srinagar, the state’s summer capital, while public transport was off the roads, the official said. However, private vehicles could be seen plying in several areas of the city, they said.

The separatists, under the banner of JRL on Tuesday, called for the shutdown, saying the legal challenge to the articles is an “extremely critical issue” of the very existence as a people and of “our disputed status”.&nbsp;

The officials said reports of the shutdown were received from other district headquarters in the Valley.

Articles 35-A and 370 grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir and special rights and privileges to its “permanent residents”, respectively. The JRL in a statement has said,“People of Jammu and Kashmir will forcefully resist every challenge by New Delhi to change the demography of the state by rolling back hereditary state subject laws of 1927 (protected by Article 35-A of the Constitution), being contested in the Supreme Court of India through their agents.”

They warned the authorities that “if anything adverse to the interests of the people of J&amp;K and its disputed status is announced through the courts, a mass people’s agitation will be started instantly across the state and the responsibility of the consequences of that will be entirely on those forcing us to react”.

Normal life was hit in Kashmir on Wednesday due to a shutdown called by separatists to protest against the legal challenge to Article 35-A and Article 370 of the Constitution, which grant special privileges to Jammu and Kashmir.

Normal life was hit in Kashmir on Wednesday due to a shutdown called by separatists to protest against the legal challenge to Article 35-A and Article 370 of the Constitution, which grant special privileges to Jammu and Kashmir. Petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutional validity of the articles. The two-day shutdown, which began on Wednesday, has been called by the Joint Resistance Leadership, comprising Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik. Shops, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut in Srinagar, the state’s summer capital, while public transport was off the roads, the official said. However, private vehicles could be seen plying in several areas of the city, they said. The separatists, under the banner of JRL on Tuesday, called for the shutdown, saying the legal challenge to the articles is an “extremely critical issue” of the very existence as a people and of “our disputed status”. The officials said reports of the shutdown were received from other district headquarters in the Valley. Articles 35-A and 370 grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir and special rights and privileges to its “permanent residents”, respectively. The JRL in a statement has said,“People of Jammu and Kashmir will forcefully resist every challenge by New Delhi to change the demography of the state by rolling back hereditary state subject laws of 1927 (protected by Article 35-A of the Constitution), being contested in the Supreme Court of India through their agents.” They warned the authorities that “if anything adverse to the interests of the people of J&K and its disputed status is announced through the courts, a mass people’s agitation will be started instantly across the state and the responsibility of the consequences of that will be entirely on those forcing us to react”.

Separatists’ call for shutdown on legal challenge to Article 35-A, Article 370 hits normal life in Kashmir

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night.&nbsp;

Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance <a href="https://t.co/da9lCV5hIE">pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095724544361345025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said.&nbsp;

"We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. &nbsp;

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Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP <a href="https://t.co/XIuWB52LUg">pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095722817067216896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata had already provided an inkling about&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-fight-the-lok-sabha-elections-together-mamata-banerjee-197206">an opposition alliance</a> Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

"We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together.&nbsp;

Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal.&nbsp;

"We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night. Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × "We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said. "We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Mamata had already provided an inkling about an opposition alliance Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together. Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal. "We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.

Lok Sabha elections: Opposition will form pre-poll alliance, says Mamata Banerjee

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Wednesday asked the members to introspect whether they lived up to the expectations of people whom they represented in the House in the last five years. In her address on the final day of the last session of the 16th Lok Sabha, Mahajan expressed satisfaction that 205 legislations were approved by the House. However, she said that 422 hours and 19 minutes were lost due to disruptions in the five years since June 2014. The House conducted business for 1,612 hours spread over 331 sittings, she noted.

Mahajan was elected as Speaker on June 6, 2014, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government came to power. Giving details about the business conducted by the outgoing Lok Sabha, she said 205 important legislations were passed. These include a law to curb black money as well as those related to juvenile justice, GST, Aadhaar and 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker section of people. “In the last session of the 16th Lok Sabha, it is time that we introspect whether we have lived up to the expectation of the people during the last five years.

“What we have achieved and what still needs to be done. We should do an impartial analysis,” Mahajan said and wished luck to the members for the ensuing general elections. Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai said he became the Deputy Speaker after 30 years. Earlier, he was elected to the post when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister and there was no principal opposition party. This time too the situation is the same as there is no principal opposition party and he was elected as Deputy Speaker, the senior AIADMK leader said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Wednesday asked the members to introspect whether they lived up to the expectations of people whom they represented in the House in the last five years.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Wednesday asked the members to introspect whether they lived up to the expectations of people whom they represented in the House in the last five years. In her address on the final day of the last session of the 16th Lok Sabha, Mahajan expressed satisfaction that 205 legislations were approved by the House. However, she said that 422 hours and 19 minutes were lost due to disruptions in the five years since June 2014. The House conducted business for 1,612 hours spread over 331 sittings, she noted. Mahajan was elected as Speaker on June 6, 2014, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government came to power. Giving details about the business conducted by the outgoing Lok Sabha, she said 205 important legislations were passed. These include a law to curb black money as well as those related to juvenile justice, GST, Aadhaar and 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker section of people. “In the last session of the 16th Lok Sabha, it is time that we introspect whether we have lived up to the expectation of the people during the last five years. “What we have achieved and what still needs to be done. We should do an impartial analysis,” Mahajan said and wished luck to the members for the ensuing general elections. Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai said he became the Deputy Speaker after 30 years. Earlier, he was elected to the post when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister and there was no principal opposition party. This time too the situation is the same as there is no principal opposition party and he was elected as Deputy Speaker, the senior AIADMK leader said.

Introspect if you lived up to expectations of people: Lok Sabha Speaker tells members

Karnataka assembly speaker Ramesh Kumar Tuesday compared himself to a rape survivor having to undergo repeated questioning as he referred to repeated charges against him being part of the controversial audio tapes, over which government has constituted an SIT.

The speaker made the intervention during the discussions in the assembly over the Special Investigation Team probe into an audio clip showing BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa in a purported conversation to lure a JD(S) MLA in his alleged attempt to topple the Congress-JDS government.

The Speaker, pointing to repeated reference to charges against him, said his "situation was like that of a rape victim, as they too are supposedly questioned about the incident repeatedly."

Kumaraswamy on Monday had announced a comprehensive SIT probe into the audio clip.

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Karnataka Assembly Speaker Ramesh Kumar: When you complain that a rape has happened, accused is put in jail. But his lawyers ask how did it happen? When did it happen &amp; how many times? Rape happens once but you get raped a 100 times in the court. This is my condition. (2/2) <a href="https://t.co/r3jj2bIgIP">https://t.co/r3jj2bIgIP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095383592862208003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He had accepted an "advice" by an emotional Speaker to constitute SIT to probe the episode to "establish the truth" as his name has also been dragged with the charge that he had been "booked" for Rs 50 crore.

The stand-off between the government and opposition continued in the assembly Tuesday over an SIT probe into the audio clip.

Kumaraswamy on Monday had announced a comprehensive SIT probe into the audio clip.

He had accepted an "advice" by an emotional Speaker to constitute the Special Investigation Team to probe the episode to "establish the truth" as his name has also been dragged with the charge that he had been "booked" for Rs 50 crore.

The Speaker called for a meeting of floor leaders on Wednesday to resolve the issue, as the BJP stuck to its strong opposition to the SIT, saying it could be used for "political vengeance."

He decided to convene the meeting at the end of the day-long discussion on the issue for the second consecutive day in the Assembly, with both the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition and opposition BJP refusing to budge from their positions.

"Let's discuss and try to find a solution," the Speaker announced as he adjourned the assembly proceedings to Wednesday morning.

The Speaker's decision came after Yeddyurappa, the leader of the opposition, pointed out that no effort was made by the Chair to seek the opinion of the opposition before deciding on the investigation agency to inquire into the case.

"SIT is being imposed upon us forcefully," he said.

Yeddyurappa expressed apprehensions about the SIT as it comes under the Chief Minister and said he was firm on his stand to quit politics if it was proved he was present during conversations between the persons in the audio on a "Rs 50 crore offer to book" the Speaker, as alleged by Kumaraswamy.

Accusing the Chief Minister of hatching a conspiracy against him by "twisting facts", he said Kumaraswamy has released the audio partially, to save his seat.

The BJP has objected to the SIT and insisted on constituting a House committee or a judicial probe. They also said that the probe cannot be conducted by an agency that is under the Chief Minister as he too was a party in the case.

The political war over charges of horse-trading had escalated in Karnataka on Friday with Kumaraswamy releasing the audio clip.

As the House met for the day, opposition members requested the Chair to reconsider the decision to hand over the probe to the SIT.

Several BJP members, including Yeddyurappa, demanded a probe by house committee or judicial inquiry into the matter.

Karnataka assembly speaker Ramesh Kumar Tuesday compared himself to a rape survivor having to undergo repeated questioning as he referred to repeated charges against him being part of the controversial audio tapes, over which government has constituted an SIT.

Karnataka assembly speaker Ramesh Kumar Tuesday compared himself to a rape survivor having to undergo repeated questioning as he referred to repeated charges against him being part of the controversial audio tapes, over which government has constituted an SIT. The speaker made the intervention during the discussions in the assembly over the Special Investigation Team probe into an audio clip showing BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa in a purported conversation to lure a JD(S) MLA in his alleged attempt to topple the Congress-JDS government. The Speaker, pointing to repeated reference to charges against him, said his "situation was like that of a rape victim, as they too are supposedly questioned about the incident repeatedly." Kumaraswamy on Monday had announced a comprehensive SIT probe into the audio clip. Karnataka Assembly Speaker Ramesh Kumar: When you complain that a rape has happened, accused is put in jail. But his lawyers ask how did it happen? When did it happen & how many times? Rape happens once but you get raped a 100 times in the court. This is my condition. (2/2) https://t.co/r3jj2bIgIP — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2019 × He had accepted an "advice" by an emotional Speaker to constitute SIT to probe the episode to "establish the truth" as his name has also been dragged with the charge that he had been "booked" for Rs 50 crore. The stand-off between the government and opposition continued in the assembly Tuesday over an SIT probe into the audio clip. Kumaraswamy on Monday had announced a comprehensive SIT probe into the audio clip. He had accepted an "advice" by an emotional Speaker to constitute the Special Investigation Team to probe the episode to "establish the truth" as his name has also been dragged with the charge that he had been "booked" for Rs 50 crore. The Speaker called for a meeting of floor leaders on Wednesday to resolve the issue, as the BJP stuck to its strong opposition to the SIT, saying it could be used for "political vengeance." He decided to convene the meeting at the end of the day-long discussion on the issue for the second consecutive day in the Assembly, with both the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition and opposition BJP refusing to budge from their positions. "Let's discuss and try to find a solution," the Speaker announced as he adjourned the assembly proceedings to Wednesday morning. The Speaker's decision came after Yeddyurappa, the leader of the opposition, pointed out that no effort was made by the Chair to seek the opinion of the opposition before deciding on the investigation agency to inquire into the case. "SIT is being imposed upon us forcefully," he said. Yeddyurappa expressed apprehensions about the SIT as it comes under the Chief Minister and said he was firm on his stand to quit politics if it was proved he was present during conversations between the persons in the audio on a "Rs 50 crore offer to book" the Speaker, as alleged by Kumaraswamy. Accusing the Chief Minister of hatching a conspiracy against him by "twisting facts", he said Kumaraswamy has released the audio partially, to save his seat. The BJP has objected to the SIT and insisted on constituting a House committee or a judicial probe. They also said that the probe cannot be conducted by an agency that is under the Chief Minister as he too was a party in the case. The political war over charges of horse-trading had escalated in Karnataka on Friday with Kumaraswamy releasing the audio clip. As the House met for the day, opposition members requested the Chair to reconsider the decision to hand over the probe to the SIT. Several BJP members, including Yeddyurappa, demanded a probe by house committee or judicial inquiry into the matter.

Karnataka assembly speaker compares himself to rape survivor amid audio tapes row 

Something strange is (again) going on on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-ceo-says-his-and-other-tech-firms-have-not-combated-abuse-enough-197033"> Twitter.&nbsp;</a>

A number of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-facebook-twitter-must-do-more-against-fake-news-eu-193737">Twitter users</a> have been saying (nay complaining) that the number of likes and retweets of their tweets have, upsettingly, been decreasing with time.&nbsp;

Twitter has agreed with them.&nbsp;

Many of the aggrieved Twitter users took to, well, social media to vent their grievances. Along with their grievances, they posted short videos and screenshots of the responses to their tweets, showing how the number of likes and retweets had dwindled (drastically) over time.

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WHAT'S GOING ON WITH <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Twitter</a>?!. For my last several posts, posted a few hours ago, the number of retweets and likes suddenly declined, dropping hundreds of retweets and likes. 
 
ARE YOU EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEM?
— Larry Elder (@larryelder) <a href="https://twitter.com/larryelder/status/1095404447176351744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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why is twitter deleting so many likes off peoples’ tweets? are accounts getting mass s*spended or... <a href="https://t.co/MabHOOxXi0">pic.twitter.com/MabHOOxXi0</a>
— bts went to the grammys (@functionbts) <a href="https://twitter.com/functionbts/status/1095335583109402624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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twitter please stop taking away the likes on my tweets they're all that I have
— gracie hoos (@cottoncandaddy) <a href="https://twitter.com/cottoncandaddy/status/1095423375680262144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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So here’s what <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@twitter</a> can do in a day’s work to one RW tweet. Reduce 1200+ RTs to 500. Then again bring-down 1000+ RTs to 700+. 
 
No wonder <a href="https://twitter.com/jack?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jack</a> has been summoned by Parliamentary Committee. This is fraud and calls for serious investigation! 
 
cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ianuragthakur</a> <a href="https://t.co/p0VMHwPziX">pic.twitter.com/p0VMHwPziX</a>
— Nupur Sharma (@NupurSharmaBJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/NupurSharmaBJP/status/1095297289491529728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Twitter meanwhile has issued a statement saying they are working on resolving the issue.

They also apologised for the inconvenience.

"Some people around the world are experiencing an issue with notifications, Likes, and Retweets. We’re working on resolving this and will follow up soon," Twitter said in its statement.

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Some people around the world are experiencing an issue with notifications, Likes, and Retweets. We’re working on resolving this and will follow up soon. We apologize for the inconvenience.
— Twitter Support (@TwitterSupport) <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterSupport/status/1095443405092450304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The social media giant however has not said what might be causing the problem. Nor has it specified by when the bug will be fixed.

Twitter has a global user base of close to 236 million active users. It was not certain how many of them were affected by the problem.

Earlier in February, a Twitter bug confused Android users into believing they were viewing posts from random strangers when actually it was Twitter that was mislabelling usernames on retweets.

(With inputs from agencies)

Something strange is (again) going on on Twitter. A number of Twitter users have been saying (nay complaining) that the number of likes and retweets of their tweets have, upsettingly, been decreasing with time.

Something strange is (again) going on on Twitter. A number of Twitter users have been saying (nay complaining) that the number of likes and retweets of their tweets have, upsettingly, been decreasing with time. Twitter has agreed with them. Many of the aggrieved Twitter users took to, well, social media to vent their grievances. Along with their grievances, they posted short videos and screenshots of the responses to their tweets, showing how the number of likes and retweets had dwindled (drastically) over time. WHAT'S GOING ON WITH @Twitter?!. For my last several posts, posted a few hours ago, the number of retweets and likes suddenly declined, dropping hundreds of retweets and likes. ARE YOU EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEM? — Larry Elder (@larryelder) February 12, 2019 × why is twitter deleting so many likes off peoples’ tweets? are accounts getting mass s*spended or... pic.twitter.com/MabHOOxXi0 — bts went to the grammys (@functionbts) February 12, 2019 × twitter please stop taking away the likes on my tweets they're all that I have — gracie hoos (@cottoncandaddy) February 12, 2019 × So here’s what @twitter can do in a day’s work to one RW tweet. Reduce 1200+ RTs to 500. Then again bring-down 1000+ RTs to 700+. No wonder @jack has been summoned by Parliamentary Committee. This is fraud and calls for serious investigation! cc: @ianuragthakur pic.twitter.com/p0VMHwPziX — Nupur Sharma (@NupurSharmaBJP) February 12, 2019 × Twitter meanwhile has issued a statement saying they are working on resolving the issue. They also apologised for the inconvenience. "Some people around the world are experiencing an issue with notifications, Likes, and Retweets. We’re working on resolving this and will follow up soon," Twitter said in its statement. Some people around the world are experiencing an issue with notifications, Likes, and Retweets. We’re working on resolving this and will follow up soon. We apologize for the inconvenience. — Twitter Support (@TwitterSupport) February 12, 2019 × The social media giant however has not said what might be causing the problem. Nor has it specified by when the bug will be fixed. Twitter has a global user base of close to 236 million active users. It was not certain how many of them were affected by the problem. Earlier in February, a Twitter bug confused Android users into believing they were viewing posts from random strangers when actually it was Twitter that was mislabelling usernames on retweets. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter users say likes, retweets decreasing; social media giant agrees

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22.

During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. The award to the PM Narendra Modi was announced last year.

Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel &amp; United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan.

PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Last year in July, South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India.&nbsp;

During his visit, he along with PM Modi inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world.&nbsp;

After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the 4th international leader to congratulate him. In his addition, PM Modi’s congratulatory tweet in the Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon.

Many South Korean companies are household names in India. According to Statistics Korea, Indian exports to Korea accounted for $ 2.91 billion and imports account for $ 8.707 billion during January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%.&nbsp;

Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India, estimated around $4.43 billion (Figures till March 2017).&nbsp;

A Sister company of Hyundai Group, Kia motors recently announced an investment of $ 1.1 billion to set up a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Samsung Electronics has announced a $ 760 million investment to expand production facilities in India. Indian companies have invested $ 3 billion in South Korea.

About 11000 Indian nationals are living in South Korea with 1000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country.

The visit comes even as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is all set to met US President Donald Trump for the 2nd US-North Korea summit in Vietnam on 27th and 28th February.&nbsp;

They met last year in Singapore for the landmark meeting between the two.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22. During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22. During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. The award to the PM Narendra Modi was announced last year. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel & United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan. PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Last year in July, South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India. During his visit, he along with PM Modi inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world. After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the 4th international leader to congratulate him. In his addition, PM Modi’s congratulatory tweet in the Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon. Many South Korean companies are household names in India. According to Statistics Korea, Indian exports to Korea accounted for $ 2.91 billion and imports account for $ 8.707 billion during January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%. Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India, estimated around $4.43 billion (Figures till March 2017). A Sister company of Hyundai Group, Kia motors recently announced an investment of $ 1.1 billion to set up a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh. Samsung Electronics has announced a $ 760 million investment to expand production facilities in India. Indian companies have invested $ 3 billion in South Korea. About 11000 Indian nationals are living in South Korea with 1000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country. The visit comes even as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is all set to met US President Donald Trump for the 2nd US-North Korea summit in Vietnam on 27th and 28th February. They met last year in Singapore for the landmark meeting between the two.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit South Korea on February 21, 22

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school&nbsp;Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday.

“Several students reported injured in the blast and the details with regard to it is being ascertained,” a police official said.

The injured students were rushed to a hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Some of them have been taken shifted to SMHS hospital in Srinagar for advanced treatment.

The explosion took place inside the classroom at 2:30 pm.

"I was teaching and then suddenly an explosion occurred. I can't say how many students are injured," Jawed Ahmed, a teacher at the school, said.

<img alt="Pulwama" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ac3193f8-bba8-4fd3-a6e4-51b009185764" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_2.JPG" />

Visuals from the hospital where the students have been admitted. (ANI photo)

The cause of the blast is not yet known.

The police meanwhile have reached the spot and a probe is underway.

A case has been registered and an&nbsp;investigation is underway.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday.

Twelve school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday. “Several students reported injured in the blast and the details with regard to it is being ascertained,” a police official said. The injured students were rushed to a hospital for treatment. Some of them have been taken shifted to SMHS hospital in Srinagar for advanced treatment. The explosion took place inside the classroom at 2:30 pm. "I was teaching and then suddenly an explosion occurred. I can't say how many students are injured," Jawed Ahmed, a teacher at the school, said. Visuals from the hospital where the students have been admitted. (ANI photo) The cause of the blast is not yet known. The police meanwhile have reached the spot and a probe is underway. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: 12 schoolchildren injured after explosion inside classroom

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/drug-lord-escape-artist-el-chapo-convicted-by-us-jury-197026">Drug</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/drug-lord-escape-artist-el-chapo-convicted-by-us-jury-197026"> lord, escape artist 'El Chapo' convicted by US jury</a>

The world's most infamous cartel boss&nbsp;Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career.

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Twitter Inc Chief Executive Jack Dorsey said on Tuesday that Silicon Valley companies, including his own, have not done enough to protect victims of online abuse, calling it a "huge fail."

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The Afghan government on Tuesday fired its election commission ahead of July's controversial presidential vote, reports said.The move comes more than three months after chaotic parliamentary elections the results of which have still not been announced.&nbsp;

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With Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday asking&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-will-not-vote-on-revised-brexit-deal-this-week-pm-mays-office-196962">MPs to give her more time for talks with Brussels&nbsp;</a>to renegotiate her Brexit deal, it remains unclear how Britain will leave the European Union.

Drug lord, escape artist 'El Chapo' convicted by US jury The world's most infamous cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career.

Drug lord, escape artist 'El Chapo' convicted by US jury The world's most infamous cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career. Venezuela turns to India as sanctions cut oil flow to US, Europe Venezuela's oil exports have tapered off and shifted toward India since new US sanctions began January 28 as state-run oil company PDVSA seeks to replace deliveries to the United States and Europe that were disrupted by payment restrictions. Twitter CEO says his and other tech firms have not combated abuse enough Twitter Inc Chief Executive Jack Dorsey said on Tuesday that Silicon Valley companies, including his own, have not done enough to protect victims of online abuse, calling it a "huge fail." Afghan government fires election commission ahead of presidential vote in July The Afghan government on Tuesday fired its election commission ahead of July's controversial presidential vote, reports said.The move comes more than three months after chaotic parliamentary elections the results of which have still not been announced. What is next for Brexit? With Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday asking MPs to give her more time for talks with Brussels to renegotiate her Brexit deal, it remains unclear how Britain will leave the European Union.

India and Maldives on Tuesday exchanged diplomatic notes for the implementation of the visa facilitation agreement with an aim to boost people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The agreement was signed during Maldivian President Ibrahim Solih`s visit to India on December 17 last year.

The exchange of diplomatic notes follows the signature of the agreement by President Ram Nath Kovind after the Union Cabinet had given its approval, read a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The new agreement will be effective from March 11 after all formalities including information being provided to all immigration offices, border points and customs authorities have been completed.

The agreement provides a very liberal visa regime for Maldivian nationals to visit India for tourism, business, education and medical purposes.&nbsp;

It also makes it easier for Indians to travel to the Maldives for business purposes, the statement said.

Relations between New Delhi and Male came under strain during former President Abdulla Yameen`s five-year rule, which saw him cosying up with China for various development projects, cracking down on dissent and imposing a state of emergency by jailing opposition leaders.

Moreover, there were several diplomatic issues under the Yameen government with many Indian nationals being reportedly denied visas.

Solih`s surprise victory in the Maldives presidential elections in last September came as a major diplomatic victory for India after New Delhi repeatedly warned the Yameen government to respect democratic institutions and free the jailed opposition leaders.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the island nation for Solih`s swearing-in ceremony in November last year.&nbsp;

During the visit, Solih briefed the Prime Minister about Maldives` fragile economic situation.

The two leaders discussed ways in which India can continue development partnership in various sectors, particularly to help the new government in meeting its pledges to the people of the Maldives.

During Solih`s visit to India, New Delhi announced financial assistance of USD 1.4 billion to Male in the form of budgetary support, currency swap and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the socio-economic development programmes of the island nation.

 
&nbsp;

India and Maldives on Tuesday exchanged diplomatic notes for the implementation of the visa facilitation agreement with an aim to boost people-to-people ties between the two countries.

India and Maldives on Tuesday exchanged diplomatic notes for the implementation of the visa facilitation agreement with an aim to boost people-to-people ties between the two countries. The agreement was signed during Maldivian President Ibrahim Solih`s visit to India on December 17 last year. The exchange of diplomatic notes follows the signature of the agreement by President Ram Nath Kovind after the Union Cabinet had given its approval, read a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The new agreement will be effective from March 11 after all formalities including information being provided to all immigration offices, border points and customs authorities have been completed. The agreement provides a very liberal visa regime for Maldivian nationals to visit India for tourism, business, education and medical purposes. It also makes it easier for Indians to travel to the Maldives for business purposes, the statement said. Relations between New Delhi and Male came under strain during former President Abdulla Yameen`s five-year rule, which saw him cosying up with China for various development projects, cracking down on dissent and imposing a state of emergency by jailing opposition leaders. Moreover, there were several diplomatic issues under the Yameen government with many Indian nationals being reportedly denied visas. Solih`s surprise victory in the Maldives presidential elections in last September came as a major diplomatic victory for India after New Delhi repeatedly warned the Yameen government to respect democratic institutions and free the jailed opposition leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the island nation for Solih`s swearing-in ceremony in November last year. During the visit, Solih briefed the Prime Minister about Maldives` fragile economic situation. The two leaders discussed ways in which India can continue development partnership in various sectors, particularly to help the new government in meeting its pledges to the people of the Maldives. During Solih`s visit to India, New Delhi announced financial assistance of USD 1.4 billion to Male in the form of budgetary support, currency swap and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the socio-economic development programmes of the island nation.

New visa agreement between India, Maldives to be effective from March

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