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A gunfight erupted&nbsp;between security forces and terrorists in Kellam Devsar area of Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, ANI reported quoting officials.

Upon receiving a tip-off about the militants, the security forces started a search operation in Kelam village. 
 
"As the cordon around the hiding militants was tightened, they fired at the security forces triggering the ongoing encounter," the police said. 
 
Authorities have suspended mobile Internet services in Kulgam as a precautionary measure.

No casualties or injuries reported so far.

Two terrorists from militant outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed were killed in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 1.

Similarly, on January 26, two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar.&nbsp;

The joint operation was carried out by 50 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Srinagar Police.&nbsp;

A gunfight erupted between security forces and terrorists in Kellam Devsar area of Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, ANI reported quoting officials. Upon receiving a tip-off about the militants, the security forces started a search operation in Kelam village.

A gunfight erupted between security forces and terrorists in Kellam Devsar area of Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, ANI reported quoting officials. Upon receiving a tip-off about the militants, the security forces started a search operation in Kelam village. "As the cordon around the hiding militants was tightened, they fired at the security forces triggering the ongoing encounter," the police said. Authorities have suspended mobile Internet services in Kulgam as a precautionary measure. No casualties or injuries reported so far. Two terrorists from militant outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed were killed in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 1. Similarly, on January 26, two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar. The joint operation was carried out by 50 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Srinagar Police.

J&K: Gunfight underway between security forces and terrorists in Kulgam

Congress general secretary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-assumes-charge-as-aicc-general-secretary-195665">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> on Sunday released an audio message requesting people to join her in creating a new culture of politics in the country.&nbsp;

In the audio message, she said that she would be visiting Lucknow on Monday and would appreciate if people could join her in this process. A similar 30-second-long audio recording was released for Jyotiraditya Scindia in Western Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

The audio clip for both the leaders targeted around 60 lakh voters in Uttar Pradesh. The outreach was divided into 30 lakh messages in Western and Eastern Uttar Pradesh respectively.

Praveen Chakravarthy, an economist by profession,&nbsp;who heads Congress' data department said, "Congress has done multiple surveys in Uttar Pradesh and found joblessness as a major issue in the context of elections and quota for the economically weaker sections amongst the upper castes. BJP is facing double anti-incumbency in Uttar Pradesh”.&nbsp;

Chakravarthy also said that both Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have come on top of the anger index in the context of expectation from the government. He also confirmed that the Congress has already done a survey across Uttar Pradesh on who deserves to get a ticket from the party in the state.

Priyanka Gandhi would kickstart her day on Monday with a massive roadshow which would take her from the Lucknow airport to areas like Hazratganj, Alam Bagh, Lal Bagh, ultimately concluding at Nehru Bhawan.&nbsp;

Officially, the roadshow is expected to last 6 hours in the city but can extend due to the presence of workers who have poured into the state capital from all across. It is expected that Priyanka Gandhi would give a maiden speech at Lal Bagh.

Such is the enthusiasm for the preparations for Priyanka Gandhi's Lucknow show, it has already generated a lot of excitement in the party local unit as well.

What Priyanka Gandhi intends to do in the next four days is also very unique in the context of the finalization of the tickets for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi has decided to conduct closed-door meetings for three days with former MPS, MLAs, city presidents, party office bearers, district heads and panchayat chairmen. Interestingly, she has divided all her meetings as per the Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. The closed-door meetings will allow no coverage. Priyanka would take feedback on the right candidate&nbsp;for the Lok Sabha constituency.

Sources in the party said that Priyanka Gandhi would select Lok Sabha candidates across Uttar Pradesh on the basis of the feedback received from the meetings. Priyanka Gandhi is expected to launch a district-wise exercise any day after February 18.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be accompanied by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary in-charge of Western UP, Jyotiraditya Scindia. Rahul Gandhi will leave for Delhi on February 11 while Priyanka Gandhi would stay put till February 14.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday released an audio message requesting people to join her in creating a new culture of politics in the country.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday released an audio message requesting people to join her in creating a new culture of politics in the country. In the audio message, she said that she would be visiting Lucknow on Monday and would appreciate if people could join her in this process. A similar 30-second-long audio recording was released for Jyotiraditya Scindia in Western Uttar Pradesh. The audio clip for both the leaders targeted around 60 lakh voters in Uttar Pradesh. The outreach was divided into 30 lakh messages in Western and Eastern Uttar Pradesh respectively. Praveen Chakravarthy, an economist by profession, who heads Congress' data department said, "Congress has done multiple surveys in Uttar Pradesh and found joblessness as a major issue in the context of elections and quota for the economically weaker sections amongst the upper castes. BJP is facing double anti-incumbency in Uttar Pradesh”. Chakravarthy also said that both Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have come on top of the anger index in the context of expectation from the government. He also confirmed that the Congress has already done a survey across Uttar Pradesh on who deserves to get a ticket from the party in the state. Priyanka Gandhi would kickstart her day on Monday with a massive roadshow which would take her from the Lucknow airport to areas like Hazratganj, Alam Bagh, Lal Bagh, ultimately concluding at Nehru Bhawan. Officially, the roadshow is expected to last 6 hours in the city but can extend due to the presence of workers who have poured into the state capital from all across. It is expected that Priyanka Gandhi would give a maiden speech at Lal Bagh. Such is the enthusiasm for the preparations for Priyanka Gandhi's Lucknow show, it has already generated a lot of excitement in the party local unit as well. What Priyanka Gandhi intends to do in the next four days is also very unique in the context of the finalization of the tickets for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Priyanka Gandhi has decided to conduct closed-door meetings for three days with former MPS, MLAs, city presidents, party office bearers, district heads and panchayat chairmen. Interestingly, she has divided all her meetings as per the Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. The closed-door meetings will allow no coverage. Priyanka would take feedback on the right candidate for the Lok Sabha constituency. Sources in the party said that Priyanka Gandhi would select Lok Sabha candidates across Uttar Pradesh on the basis of the feedback received from the meetings. Priyanka Gandhi is expected to launch a district-wise exercise any day after February 18. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be accompanied by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary in-charge of Western UP, Jyotiraditya Scindia. Rahul Gandhi will leave for Delhi on February 11 while Priyanka Gandhi would stay put till February 14.

Priyanka Gandhi appeals via audio message, Congress reaches out to 60 lakh voters

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-backed-syrian-forces-launch-final-battle-against-islamic-state-enclave-196295">US-backed Syrian forces launch 'final battle' against Islamic State enclave</a>

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) began an assault against the final Islamic State enclave in eastern Syria on Saturday, aiming to wipe out the last vestige of the jihadist group's "caliphate" in the SDF's area of operations.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/demonstrator-loses-hand-at-paris-yellow-vest-march-196297">Paris: Protester loses </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/demonstrator-loses-hand-at-paris-yellow-vest-march-196297">hand</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/demonstrator-loses-hand-at-paris-yellow-vest-march-196297"> at 'yellow vest' march</a>

A "yellow vest" demonstrator lost his hand during clashes with police outside the main parliament building in Paris on Saturday, witnesses said during a 13th weekend of anti-government protests across France.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cisf-cop-posted-as-security-guard-at-teesta-setalvads-house-shoots-himself-196301">CISF cop on security duty at Teesta Setalvad's home shoots himself</a>

A Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) constable posted as a security guard at civil rights activist Teesta Setalvad's home in suburban Santacruz in Mumbai allegedly committed suicide on Saturday morning, news agency ANI reported citing police sources.&nbsp;

ANI said 42-year-old Bhawar Lal Naik reportedly shot himself with his service rifle while on duty at Setalvad's bungalow.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/southampton-vows-to-ban-fans-who-mocked-emiliano-salas-death-196299">Southampton vows to ban fans who mocked Emiliano Sala's death</a>

Southampton have promised to ban supporters involved in mocking the death of Emiliano Sala by making aeroplane gestures during their match at home to Cardiff City on Saturday.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-treatment-of-uighurs-a-great-embarrassment-for-humanity-turkey-196302">China's treatment of Uighurs a 'great embarrassment for humanity': Turkey</a>

Turkey on Saturday condemned China's treatment of its Muslim ethnic Uighur people as "a great embarrassment for humanity," adding to rights groups' recent criticism over mass detentions of the Turkic-speaking minority.

"The systematic assimilation policy of Chinese authorities towards Uighur Turks is a great embarrassment for humanity," Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement. 
&nbsp;

US-backed Syrian forces launch 'final battle' against Islamic State enclave The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) began an assault against the final Islamic State enclave in eastern Syria on Saturday, aiming to wipe out the last vestige of the jihadist group's "caliphate" in the SDF's area of operations.

US-backed Syrian forces launch 'final battle' against Islamic State enclave The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) began an assault against the final Islamic State enclave in eastern Syria on Saturday, aiming to wipe out the last vestige of the jihadist group's "caliphate" in the SDF's area of operations. Paris: Protester loses hand at 'yellow vest' march A "yellow vest" demonstrator lost his hand during clashes with police outside the main parliament building in Paris on Saturday, witnesses said during a 13th weekend of anti-government protests across France. CISF cop on security duty at Teesta Setalvad's home shoots himself A Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) constable posted as a security guard at civil rights activist Teesta Setalvad's home in suburban Santacruz in Mumbai allegedly committed suicide on Saturday morning, news agency ANI reported citing police sources. ANI said 42-year-old Bhawar Lal Naik reportedly shot himself with his service rifle while on duty at Setalvad's bungalow. Southampton vows to ban fans who mocked Emiliano Sala's death Southampton have promised to ban supporters involved in mocking the death of Emiliano Sala by making aeroplane gestures during their match at home to Cardiff City on Saturday. China's treatment of Uighurs a 'great embarrassment for humanity': Turkey Turkey on Saturday condemned China's treatment of its Muslim ethnic Uighur people as "a great embarrassment for humanity," adding to rights groups' recent criticism over mass detentions of the Turkic-speaking minority. "The systematic assimilation policy of Chinese authorities towards Uighur Turks is a great embarrassment for humanity," Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections.

With a tube in his nose, Parrikar, who is battling pancreatic ailment, slammed the Congress, saying that it will never come to power in Goa.

"I will not give a big speech today. I will reserve it for elections. All I will say today is that 25,000-30,000 workers should come together. Forget small differences and let us fight to make Modi ji as the Prime Minister again. There will be rumours spread, but our motive should be one, that this time it should be Modi ji. If we go with this spirit, we will achieve our goals," he said at the Atal booth-level workers convention in Bambolim.

The Goa chief minister also claimed that Congress will meet the fate of Sri Lanka if BJP workers come together and fight the Lok Sabha elections.

Parrikar has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, and New York since February 2018.&nbsp;

He was reportedly admitted to the cancer department of AIIMS, Delhi on February 1.

A visibly frail-looking Parrikar on January 30 presented the Goa Budget in the state Assembly, asserting that he was "high on Josh" (enthusiasm).

The Goa Chief Minister also inspected an under-construction bridge on Mandovi river, the first time he was seen in public since returning to the state on October 14 last year post hospitalisation in AIIMS in the national capital.

For long, the Congress has been demanding that it should be allowed to form the government in the state, claiming that Parrikar`s prolonged illness and inability to attend office was taking a toll on administration and governance.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections.

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections. With a tube in his nose, Parrikar, who is battling pancreatic ailment, slammed the Congress, saying that it will never come to power in Goa. "I will not give a big speech today. I will reserve it for elections. All I will say today is that 25,000-30,000 workers should come together. Forget small differences and let us fight to make Modi ji as the Prime Minister again. There will be rumours spread, but our motive should be one, that this time it should be Modi ji. If we go with this spirit, we will achieve our goals," he said at the Atal booth-level workers convention in Bambolim. The Goa chief minister also claimed that Congress will meet the fate of Sri Lanka if BJP workers come together and fight the Lok Sabha elections. Parrikar has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, and New York since February 2018. He was reportedly admitted to the cancer department of AIIMS, Delhi on February 1. A visibly frail-looking Parrikar on January 30 presented the Goa Budget in the state Assembly, asserting that he was "high on Josh" (enthusiasm). The Goa Chief Minister also inspected an under-construction bridge on Mandovi river, the first time he was seen in public since returning to the state on October 14 last year post hospitalisation in AIIMS in the national capital. For long, the Congress has been demanding that it should be allowed to form the government in the state, claiming that Parrikar`s prolonged illness and inability to attend office was taking a toll on administration and governance.

Let's fight together to make Narendra Modi PM again: Parrikar

By: Kamalika Sengupta 
&nbsp;

This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-tmc-mla-from-krishnaganj-satyajit-biswas-shot-dead-196282">Satyajit Biswas</a> – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles.

The TMC immediately blamed BJP for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-arrested-in-connection-with-tmc-mla-satyajit-biswas-murder-196333">murder and an FIR </a>was also lodged against Mukul Roy – Mamata’s former number two who switched camps.&nbsp;

On the other hand, BJP claims it’s a faction fight over the land syndicate issue.

Interestingly, Satyajit Biswas represented the Matua community, which is being eyed by BJP.&nbsp;

PM Modi came to Thakurnagar to coax that particular voter base.&nbsp;

The TMC claims that Satyajit Biswas was the face of the Matua community, and the cold-blooded killing was a result of Biswas refusing to switch camps and get Matua votes for the BJP.&nbsp;

Gauri Shankar Dutta, TMC’s district president alleged that BJP leaders conspired to kill Biswas as he defeated the BJP candidate twice by a huge margin.

In FIR too Matua popularity of Satyajit has been written and the fact that he became hindrance of BJP was also stressed on.

But BJP nowhere is to buy TMC theory, to them, he used to deal with land this may be the outcome of faction fight on land.

Moreover, Mukul Roy stated, " Please independent agency should investigate into this and truth should come out its there infighting and BJP should not be involved ".

Further to this TMC Matua leader like MP Mamata Thakur reached victims house and staged the protest in Bengal portraying that BJP killed a Matua.

Matua community is a sect of Vaishnavite Hinduism, which originated from present-day Bangladesh.

By: Kamalika Sengupta This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – Satyajit Biswas – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles.

By: Kamalika Sengupta This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – Satyajit Biswas – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles. The TMC immediately blamed BJP for the murder and an FIR was also lodged against Mukul Roy – Mamata’s former number two who switched camps. On the other hand, BJP claims it’s a faction fight over the land syndicate issue. Interestingly, Satyajit Biswas represented the Matua community, which is being eyed by BJP. PM Modi came to Thakurnagar to coax that particular voter base. The TMC claims that Satyajit Biswas was the face of the Matua community, and the cold-blooded killing was a result of Biswas refusing to switch camps and get Matua votes for the BJP. Gauri Shankar Dutta, TMC’s district president alleged that BJP leaders conspired to kill Biswas as he defeated the BJP candidate twice by a huge margin. In FIR too Matua popularity of Satyajit has been written and the fact that he became hindrance of BJP was also stressed on. But BJP nowhere is to buy TMC theory, to them, he used to deal with land this may be the outcome of faction fight on land. Moreover, Mukul Roy stated, " Please independent agency should investigate into this and truth should come out its there infighting and BJP should not be involved ". Further to this TMC Matua leader like MP Mamata Thakur reached victims house and staged the protest in Bengal portraying that BJP killed a Matua. Matua community is a sect of Vaishnavite Hinduism, which originated from present-day Bangladesh.

Matua sect vote or faction fight – what led to TMC MLA Satyajit Biswas’s murder?

Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday charged Congress president Rahul Gandhi of being a ‘king of lies.’

“He has become a king of lies. He has got Rafael-iya, and he cannot see anything beyond Rafael. The kind of allegations he makes is unacceptable. He is using foul language and repeating lies. His allegations against us regarding Rafael get scrapped automatically,” he reportedly&nbsp;said in an event in Vadodara.&nbsp;

In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls public will give a treatment of his Rafael-iya and the BJP will come in power, he added.

Accusing the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh of not fulfilling its promise, he said&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi had said if farm loans are not waived off he will change the chief minister. Till date, no farm loan has been waived off. They are just making the procedure more complex,&nbsp;he said.

Commenting on Priyanka Gandhi’s entry in politics, Chouhan said that her entry will not do any miracle.

“I welcome Priyanka`s entry in politics; anybody is free to join this field. But, people elect those who work. Someone`s entry cannot do any miracle,” added Chouhan.

Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday charged Congress president Rahul Gandhi of being a ‘king of lies.’ “He has become a king of lies.

Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday charged Congress president Rahul Gandhi of being a ‘king of lies.’ “He has become a king of lies. He has got Rafael-iya, and he cannot see anything beyond Rafael. The kind of allegations he makes is unacceptable. He is using foul language and repeating lies. His allegations against us regarding Rafael get scrapped automatically,” he reportedly said in an event in Vadodara. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls public will give a treatment of his Rafael-iya and the BJP will come in power, he added. Accusing the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh of not fulfilling its promise, he said Rahul Gandhi had said if farm loans are not waived off he will change the chief minister. Till date, no farm loan has been waived off. They are just making the procedure more complex, he said. Commenting on Priyanka Gandhi’s entry in politics, Chouhan said that her entry will not do any miracle. “I welcome Priyanka`s entry in politics; anybody is free to join this field. But, people elect those who work. Someone`s entry cannot do any miracle,” added Chouhan.

Rahul Gandhi has become 'king of lies': Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Five militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, the Army said here.

The gunbattle broke out after the ultras opened fire on a search team of the security forces in the district's Kellem village this morning, an Army official said.

He said five militants were killed in the encounter. The identity and group affiliation of the ultras are being ascertained.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> on Kulgam encounter: Bodies of the 5 terrorists killed, have been recovered; identity yet to be ascertained. Heavy stone pelting is on; 4 CRPF personnel sustained injuries. Search operation continues. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9tUAg6Pwu">https://t.co/Y9tUAg6Pwu</a>
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Weapons and war-like stores have been recovered from the encounter site, the official added.

Clashes between protesters and security forces broke out near the encounter site, a police official said, adding there were no immediate reports of injury to anyone.&nbsp;

He said the law enforcing agencies were trying to restore order in the area.&nbsp;

Five militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, the Army said here. The gunbattle broke out after the ultras opened fire on a search team of the security forces in the district's Kellem village this morning, an Army official said.

Five militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, the Army said here. The gunbattle broke out after the ultras opened fire on a search team of the security forces in the district's Kellem village this morning, an Army official said. He said five militants were killed in the encounter. The identity and group affiliation of the ultras are being ascertained. #UPDATE on Kulgam encounter: Bodies of the 5 terrorists killed, have been recovered; identity yet to be ascertained. Heavy stone pelting is on; 4 CRPF personnel sustained injuries. Search operation continues. #JammuAndKashmir https://t.co/Y9tUAg6Pwu — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × Weapons and war-like stores have been recovered from the encounter site, the official added. Clashes between protesters and security forces broke out near the encounter site, a police official said, adding there were no immediate reports of injury to anyone. He said the law enforcing agencies were trying to restore order in the area.

Five militants killed in encounter with security forces in J&K's Kulgam district

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

"A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup.

Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here.

The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012.

Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it."

Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army."

He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike.

The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India."

His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities.

Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations."

He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12. "A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup. Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here. The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012. Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it." Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army." He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike. The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India." His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities. Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations." He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Every Indian knows that our Army will never attempt a coup: PM Narendra Modi

Accusing the Congress party of launching ‘fake campaigns’ against the defence forces, judiciary and Reserve Bank, Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday said it is time to protect the country as well as its institutions from ‘institution wreckers’.

In a hard-hitting Facebook post, the minister recalled how the Congress-led governments used to interfere with institutions like the RBI, judiciary and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

“It is about time that India and its institutions are protected from these ‘institution wreckers’,” said Jaitley, who Saturday returned from the US after medical treatment.

In the post titled ‘Institutions Under Attack - The Latest Fabrication’, Jaitley said the past two months have witnessed several “fake campaigns” which failed to cut much ice as falsehood does not have longevity.

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The ‘compulsive contrarians’ continued to jump from one falsehood to another, he said.

Jaitley said in West Bengal, democracy is seriously under peril.

“BJP leaders can’t land, public meetings are being prevented and the Rath Yatra was disallowed. The Congress Party’s stand on multiple issues is self-contradictory. It slaughters a cow before the cameras in Kerala, and invokes the National Security Act against the cow killers in Madhya Pradesh,” he said.

&nbsp;There are two critical features of these new emerging breed of ‘institution protectors’. They criticise the government the maximum and simultaneously argue that the free speech is in danger, Jaitley said.

“They shed crocodile tears for democracy and make every effort to convert the world’s largest democracy into a dynastic one,” he said.

“The Congress aligned with the Maoist in the recent Chhattisgarh elections. Rahul Gandhi stood shoulder to shoulder with the ‘Tukde Tukde’ gang at the Jawaharlal Nehru University. The Congress was in the forefront of defending the urban naxals in court. And yet it claims to be friend of both, the idea of India and its institutions,” Jaitley said.

He said these ‘institution protectors’ support the legitimising of illegal infiltrators into India. They readily jump to the support of those who want to dismember the country, he said.

Accusing Congress President Rahul Gandhi of stalling functioning of Parliament, Jaitley said his two speeches on Rafale are based on a personal hatred for the Prime Minister emanating from envy.

“History will record that Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s great grandson has singularly damaged India’s Parliament as an institution more than anyone else,” he said.

The minister said the Congress attempts at 11.00 am every morning to disrupt both houses of Parliament.

&nbsp;“If we analyse Rahul Gandhi’s two speeches on Rafale, they are based on a personal hatred for the Prime Minister emanating from envy. A failed student always hates the class topper. Additionally, the context of the speeches points more to college-level lumpenisation in content.

“It has been left to two opposition members namely Bhartruhari Mahtab of the BJD and N.K. Premachandran of the RSP to fill up the intellectual vacuum that the Congress has created,” he said.

On Rafale, Jaitley said the deal not only strengthens the combat ability of the Indian Air Force but saved thousands of crores for the exchequer.

“When its falsehood collapsed, its creators by producing half a document lost their full credibility. They forgot that truth always prevails,” he said.

Accusing the Congress of organising loot on the banks between 2008-2014, Jaitley said the party is now alleging that industrial loans had been waived. “Not a single rupee was waived. On the contrary, the defaulters have been thrown out of management &amp; Congress’s falsehood was exposed,” he said.

Stating that the government has consistently maintained an arm’s length distance with the Election Commission, he said the attack on the EVMs is not merely to allay defeat, it is an attack on the commission.

&nbsp;He also said it is the Opposition which questioned first the existence of the surgical strike and then played it down as a routine action which has also taken place in the past.

“The Army Chief was described as a ‘Sadak ka Gunda’. Serious doubts have been raised on the Air Force led choice of the combat aircraft Rafale and its negotiation process. In the face of all this, they allege that institutions are under attack by the Government would be a mockery” he said.

On RBI, Jaitley said Congress governments in the past have been liberal in asking governors of the central bank to quit.

“Pt. Nehru, Mrs Indira Gandhi and subsequently Mr Yashwant Sinha had asked Governors to quit. During the UPA Government, two Governors were barely on speaking terms with the Finance Minister. Nothing of this kind has happened in the recent past,” he said.

The government legitimately flags the issues relating to liquidity and credit availability with the RBI, Jaitley said.

“The Government is the principal manager of the nation’s economy. How can raising legitimate issues relating to credit and liquidity availability be an interference with the RBI. The Government consistently maintained communications with the RBI Governors during its tenure,” Jaitley said.

Stating that the government does not interfere in any investigative function of CBI or any other investigative agency, Jaitley said restoring the credibility of an investigative agency is strengthening the institution and not assaulting it.&nbsp;

Accusing the Congress party of launching ‘fake campaigns’ against the defence forces, judiciary and Reserve Bank, Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday said it is time to protect the country as well as its institutions from ‘institution wreckers’.

Accusing the Congress party of launching ‘fake campaigns’ against the defence forces, judiciary and Reserve Bank, Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday said it is time to protect the country as well as its institutions from ‘institution wreckers’. In a hard-hitting Facebook post, the minister recalled how the Congress-led governments used to interfere with institutions like the RBI, judiciary and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). “It is about time that India and its institutions are protected from these ‘institution wreckers’,” said Jaitley, who Saturday returned from the US after medical treatment. In the post titled ‘Institutions Under Attack - The Latest Fabrication’, Jaitley said the past two months have witnessed several “fake campaigns” which failed to cut much ice as falsehood does not have longevity. × The ‘compulsive contrarians’ continued to jump from one falsehood to another, he said. Jaitley said in West Bengal, democracy is seriously under peril. “BJP leaders can’t land, public meetings are being prevented and the Rath Yatra was disallowed. The Congress Party’s stand on multiple issues is self-contradictory. It slaughters a cow before the cameras in Kerala, and invokes the National Security Act against the cow killers in Madhya Pradesh,” he said. There are two critical features of these new emerging breed of ‘institution protectors’. They criticise the government the maximum and simultaneously argue that the free speech is in danger, Jaitley said. “They shed crocodile tears for democracy and make every effort to convert the world’s largest democracy into a dynastic one,” he said. “The Congress aligned with the Maoist in the recent Chhattisgarh elections. Rahul Gandhi stood shoulder to shoulder with the ‘Tukde Tukde’ gang at the Jawaharlal Nehru University. The Congress was in the forefront of defending the urban naxals in court. And yet it claims to be friend of both, the idea of India and its institutions,” Jaitley said. He said these ‘institution protectors’ support the legitimising of illegal infiltrators into India. They readily jump to the support of those who want to dismember the country, he said. Accusing Congress President Rahul Gandhi of stalling functioning of Parliament, Jaitley said his two speeches on Rafale are based on a personal hatred for the Prime Minister emanating from envy. “History will record that Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s great grandson has singularly damaged India’s Parliament as an institution more than anyone else,” he said. The minister said the Congress attempts at 11.00 am every morning to disrupt both houses of Parliament. “If we analyse Rahul Gandhi’s two speeches on Rafale, they are based on a personal hatred for the Prime Minister emanating from envy. A failed student always hates the class topper. Additionally, the context of the speeches points more to college-level lumpenisation in content. “It has been left to two opposition members namely Bhartruhari Mahtab of the BJD and N.K. Premachandran of the RSP to fill up the intellectual vacuum that the Congress has created,” he said. On Rafale, Jaitley said the deal not only strengthens the combat ability of the Indian Air Force but saved thousands of crores for the exchequer. “When its falsehood collapsed, its creators by producing half a document lost their full credibility. They forgot that truth always prevails,” he said. Accusing the Congress of organising loot on the banks between 2008-2014, Jaitley said the party is now alleging that industrial loans had been waived. “Not a single rupee was waived. On the contrary, the defaulters have been thrown out of management & Congress’s falsehood was exposed,” he said. Stating that the government has consistently maintained an arm’s length distance with the Election Commission, he said the attack on the EVMs is not merely to allay defeat, it is an attack on the commission. He also said it is the Opposition which questioned first the existence of the surgical strike and then played it down as a routine action which has also taken place in the past. “The Army Chief was described as a ‘Sadak ka Gunda’. Serious doubts have been raised on the Air Force led choice of the combat aircraft Rafale and its negotiation process. In the face of all this, they allege that institutions are under attack by the Government would be a mockery” he said. On RBI, Jaitley said Congress governments in the past have been liberal in asking governors of the central bank to quit. “Pt. Nehru, Mrs Indira Gandhi and subsequently Mr Yashwant Sinha had asked Governors to quit. During the UPA Government, two Governors were barely on speaking terms with the Finance Minister. Nothing of this kind has happened in the recent past,” he said. The government legitimately flags the issues relating to liquidity and credit availability with the RBI, Jaitley said. “The Government is the principal manager of the nation’s economy. How can raising legitimate issues relating to credit and liquidity availability be an interference with the RBI. The Government consistently maintained communications with the RBI Governors during its tenure,” Jaitley said. Stating that the government does not interfere in any investigative function of CBI or any other investigative agency, Jaitley said restoring the credibility of an investigative agency is strengthening the institution and not assaulting it.

Arun Jaitley attacks Rahul Gandhi, says 'a failed student always hates topper’

Days after nuns protesting against rape-accused Bishop Franco Mullakkal were asked to move out of their convent, the Jalandhar Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church has assured them that there will be no move to oust them as long as they are needed for the court case.

An e-mail in this regard was sent to five nuns, who are staying with the rape survivor nun, by current apostolic administrator of Jalandhar diocese Bishop Angelo, one of the nuns said here Saturday.

The Bishop has assured the nuns that "there will be no move from the diocese of Jalandhar to oust" them from the Kuravilangad convent in Kottayam district as long as they are needed for the court case, she claimed.

Copies of purported e-mail sent by the Bishop was made available to the media.

Earlier, the head of their congregation, Missionaries of Jesus under the Jalandhar diocese, had issued transfer orders to four nuns who took part in the protest demanding the arrest of the bishop.

Another nun, Sister Neena Rose, who is staying with the rape survivor, was asked to report to the Missionaries of Jesus congregation's Jalandhar convent and meet its Superior General Sr Regina Kandamthottu on January 26.

The congregation of nuns -- Missionaries of Jesus -- had directed the nuns to join their previously-assigned convents, according to the transfer orders issued between March and May last year.

The nuns Alphy, Anupama, Josephine and Ancitta were served notice by the superior general, urging them to take up their assigned responsibilities as befitting members of the congregation.

Meanwhile, Peter Kavumpuram, PRO of the Jalandhar diocese, issued a clarification statement late in the evening, saying even though the congregation of Missionaries of Jesus is of diocesan right, the internal running of the congregation is left to the Superior General and her council.

"The Bishop of Jalandhar does not normally interfere unless the overall interests of the church demands such interference. By this clarification the Apostolic Administrator has not interfered in the internal affairs of this congregation, therefore the order to return to their rightful communities by the Mother General is not cancelled but stands," said the statement quoting Fr Kavumpuram.

The statement, however, did not have mention of the purported email sent to the nuns by Bishop Angelo.

The four nuns had earlier written to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking his intervention to ensure that their transfer orders were not effected till the trial of the case was over.

The survivor nun had also written a separate letter to the chief minister, seeking his help in the matter.

"Their aim is to single me out and to harass and torture me. My life will be in danger if such a situation arises," she said in her letter.

In her letter to Rose, the superior general had warned that failure to comply with the advice to report in person as instructed would be construed as a deliberate refusal to abide by the legitimate order of her Mother General, thereby challenging the authority canonically bestowed on her.

Meanwhile, the nuns Saturday joined 'Save Our Sisters' forum to stage a protest against the transfer orders issued by the congregation. A tense situation prevailed at the protest site when a group of people opposing the nuns' protest reached there and raised slogans against them.

The group was removed from the spot, police sources said.

The protest led by the nuns and the Catholic reformist forums in Kochi in September last year had led to a public outrage and demands for action against the bishop.

Bishop Mulakkal, a senior member of the Roman Catholic clergy in India, was arrested last year following allegations by a nun that he repeatedly raped and sexually assaulted her at the Kuravilangad convent between 2014 and 2016, a charge denied by him.&nbsp;

Days after nuns protesting against rape-accused Bishop Franco Mullakkal were asked to move out of their convent, the Jalandhar Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church has assured them that there will be no move to oust them as long as they are needed for the court case.

Days after nuns protesting against rape-accused Bishop Franco Mullakkal were asked to move out of their convent, the Jalandhar Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church has assured them that there will be no move to oust them as long as they are needed for the court case. An e-mail in this regard was sent to five nuns, who are staying with the rape survivor nun, by current apostolic administrator of Jalandhar diocese Bishop Angelo, one of the nuns said here Saturday. The Bishop has assured the nuns that "there will be no move from the diocese of Jalandhar to oust" them from the Kuravilangad convent in Kottayam district as long as they are needed for the court case, she claimed. Copies of purported e-mail sent by the Bishop was made available to the media. Earlier, the head of their congregation, Missionaries of Jesus under the Jalandhar diocese, had issued transfer orders to four nuns who took part in the protest demanding the arrest of the bishop. Another nun, Sister Neena Rose, who is staying with the rape survivor, was asked to report to the Missionaries of Jesus congregation's Jalandhar convent and meet its Superior General Sr Regina Kandamthottu on January 26. The congregation of nuns -- Missionaries of Jesus -- had directed the nuns to join their previously-assigned convents, according to the transfer orders issued between March and May last year. The nuns Alphy, Anupama, Josephine and Ancitta were served notice by the superior general, urging them to take up their assigned responsibilities as befitting members of the congregation. Meanwhile, Peter Kavumpuram, PRO of the Jalandhar diocese, issued a clarification statement late in the evening, saying even though the congregation of Missionaries of Jesus is of diocesan right, the internal running of the congregation is left to the Superior General and her council. "The Bishop of Jalandhar does not normally interfere unless the overall interests of the church demands such interference. By this clarification the Apostolic Administrator has not interfered in the internal affairs of this congregation, therefore the order to return to their rightful communities by the Mother General is not cancelled but stands," said the statement quoting Fr Kavumpuram. The statement, however, did not have mention of the purported email sent to the nuns by Bishop Angelo. The four nuns had earlier written to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking his intervention to ensure that their transfer orders were not effected till the trial of the case was over. The survivor nun had also written a separate letter to the chief minister, seeking his help in the matter. "Their aim is to single me out and to harass and torture me. My life will be in danger if such a situation arises," she said in her letter. In her letter to Rose, the superior general had warned that failure to comply with the advice to report in person as instructed would be construed as a deliberate refusal to abide by the legitimate order of her Mother General, thereby challenging the authority canonically bestowed on her. Meanwhile, the nuns Saturday joined 'Save Our Sisters' forum to stage a protest against the transfer orders issued by the congregation. A tense situation prevailed at the protest site when a group of people opposing the nuns' protest reached there and raised slogans against them. The group was removed from the spot, police sources said. The protest led by the nuns and the Catholic reformist forums in Kochi in September last year had led to a public outrage and demands for action against the bishop. Bishop Mulakkal, a senior member of the Roman Catholic clergy in India, was arrested last year following allegations by a nun that he repeatedly raped and sexually assaulted her at the Kuravilangad convent between 2014 and 2016, a charge denied by him.

Rape case: Jalandhar diocese assures nuns that they will not be transferred 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-investments-to-aid-cash-strapped-pakistan-196399">Saudi Arabia planning record investments to aid cash-strapped Pakistan</a>

A record investment package being prepared by Saudi Arabia for Pakistan will likely provide welcome relief for its cash-strapped Muslim ally, while also addressing regional geopolitical challenges, analysts say.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/heavy-clashes-as-us-backed-forces-battle-is-in-syria-report-196387">'Heavy clashes' as US-backed forces battle Islamic State in Syria: Report</a>

US-backed forces were locked in fierce fighting as they pressed the battle against the last shred of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" in eastern Syria on Sunday, a war monitor said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-hopeful-on-indias-assurance-over-teesta-water-sharing-issue-196415">Bangladesh hopeful on India's assurance over Teesta water-sharing issue</a>

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-beat-india-by-four-runs-in-third-t20-take-series-196410">New Zealand beat India by four runs in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-beat-india-by-four-runs-in-third-t20-take-series-196410">third</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-beat-india-by-four-runs-in-third-t20-take-series-196410"> T20, take series</a> 
 
New Zealand beat India by four runs in Sunday's Twenty20 match at Hamilton to take the series 2-1. The hosts were sent in to bat first and made 212 for four, with Colin Munro making 72 off 40 deliveries.&nbsp;

'<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/earth-may-be-experiencing-warmest-decade-on-record-196437">Earth may be experiencing warmest decade on record,' say experts</a>

The decade from 2014 to 2023 could end up being the warmest in over 150 years of records, say scientists who predict that the global average surface temperature for the next five years will be one degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Saudi Arabia planning record investments to aid cash-strapped Pakistan A record investment package being prepared by Saudi Arabia for Pakistan will likely provide welcome relief for its cash-strapped Muslim ally, while also addressing regional geopolitical challenges, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia planning record investments to aid cash-strapped Pakistan A record investment package being prepared by Saudi Arabia for Pakistan will likely provide welcome relief for its cash-strapped Muslim ally, while also addressing regional geopolitical challenges, analysts say. 'Heavy clashes' as US-backed forces battle Islamic State in Syria: Report US-backed forces were locked in fierce fighting as they pressed the battle against the last shred of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" in eastern Syria on Sunday, a war monitor said. Bangladesh hopeful on India's assurance over Teesta water-sharing issue Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border. New Zealand beat India by four runs in third T20, take series New Zealand beat India by four runs in Sunday's Twenty20 match at Hamilton to take the series 2-1. The hosts were sent in to bat first and made 212 for four, with Colin Munro making 72 off 40 deliveries. 'Earth may be experiencing warmest decade on record,' say experts The decade from 2014 to 2023 could end up being the warmest in over 150 years of records, say scientists who predict that the global average surface temperature for the next five years will be one degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Magnificent display of devotion at Kumbh Mela as country celebrates Basant Panchami

Hours before sunrise, lakhs of devotees had already taken a dip in Sangam on Basant Panchami the third and final shahi snaan during the Kumbh.&nbsp;

Many were seen carrying the holy water of the Ganges, a sense of satisfaction reflected on their faces.

Even before 2 am, a number of devotees were seen taking the exit route from the Mela area and searching for a mode of transport to reach their respective destinations.

It was 1.45 am, and Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Banda, was heading home.

"The main reason to take the (holy) dip early was that I will get ample amount of time to reach home. The crowd was relatively less and hence there were no problems," he said.

Deepak Kumar, who runs a cafe and is a resident of Fatehpur district, said, "I took the dip at around 1.00 am. I now have time to explore the city. Apart from this, it also helps me in returning home in time."

The devotees appeared excited and the cold breeze sweeping the Sangam area could not deter their spirit. Chants of 'Har Har Gangey' and 'Jai Ganga Maiyya' filled the air around the venue. Visitors were also seen clicking selfies at various locations in the Mela area.

As the number of visitors began increasing, police officials issued instructions to them to take a specific exit route.

"Close to 50 lakh devotees had already taken dip before sunrise," Kumbh Mela Adhikari Vijay Kiran Anand told PTI.

Siddh Pratap Singh Baghel, who came from Katni in Madhya Pradesh along with his friends Pramod Chaurasia and Brijesh Kumar Pandey, said, "Initially when we went to take a dip, the rush was relatively less. However, as soon as we came out, the number of devotees started increasing."

On their way back home, the three carried the holy Ganga water with them.

Residents of Bhadohi, Dharmendra Vishwakarma and his wife Malti Devi took the holy dip at around 12.30 am and were seen leaving the Mela venue before 2.00 am.

Dharmendra Vishwakarma said, "People had started taking a dip at around 12.30 am, and we were able to reach there in time. As we were leaving the ghat, we noticed the number of devotees reaching there increasing."

Malti Devi said she wanted to reach home early and hence wanted to take an early dip.

Shahi snaan at Sangam the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati is a central highlight of the Kumbh Mela.

The two previous shahi snaans were on Makar Sankranti on January 15 and Mauni Amawasya on February 4. And the third fell on Basant Panchami, which heralds the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

According to Mela administration, 14.94 crore devotees have visited the Kumbh so far.

Police are using gas balloons as an indicator for the public to locate the lost and found centres run by them.

The Kumbh Mela commenced on January 15 on Makar Sankranti and Mahashivratri on March 4 will mark its culmination.

Hours before sunrise, lakhs of devotees had already taken a dip in Sangam on Basant Panchami the third and final shahi snaan during the Kumbh. Many were seen carrying the holy water of the Ganges, a sense of satisfaction reflected on their faces.

Hours before sunrise, lakhs of devotees had already taken a dip in Sangam on Basant Panchami the third and final shahi snaan during the Kumbh. Many were seen carrying the holy water of the Ganges, a sense of satisfaction reflected on their faces. Even before 2 am, a number of devotees were seen taking the exit route from the Mela area and searching for a mode of transport to reach their respective destinations. It was 1.45 am, and Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Banda, was heading home. "The main reason to take the (holy) dip early was that I will get ample amount of time to reach home. The crowd was relatively less and hence there were no problems," he said. Deepak Kumar, who runs a cafe and is a resident of Fatehpur district, said, "I took the dip at around 1.00 am. I now have time to explore the city. Apart from this, it also helps me in returning home in time." The devotees appeared excited and the cold breeze sweeping the Sangam area could not deter their spirit. Chants of 'Har Har Gangey' and 'Jai Ganga Maiyya' filled the air around the venue. Visitors were also seen clicking selfies at various locations in the Mela area. As the number of visitors began increasing, police officials issued instructions to them to take a specific exit route. "Close to 50 lakh devotees had already taken dip before sunrise," Kumbh Mela Adhikari Vijay Kiran Anand told PTI. Siddh Pratap Singh Baghel, who came from Katni in Madhya Pradesh along with his friends Pramod Chaurasia and Brijesh Kumar Pandey, said, "Initially when we went to take a dip, the rush was relatively less. However, as soon as we came out, the number of devotees started increasing." On their way back home, the three carried the holy Ganga water with them. Residents of Bhadohi, Dharmendra Vishwakarma and his wife Malti Devi took the holy dip at around 12.30 am and were seen leaving the Mela venue before 2.00 am. Dharmendra Vishwakarma said, "People had started taking a dip at around 12.30 am, and we were able to reach there in time. As we were leaving the ghat, we noticed the number of devotees reaching there increasing." Malti Devi said she wanted to reach home early and hence wanted to take an early dip. Shahi snaan at Sangam the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati is a central highlight of the Kumbh Mela. The two previous shahi snaans were on Makar Sankranti on January 15 and Mauni Amawasya on February 4. And the third fell on Basant Panchami, which heralds the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. According to Mela administration, 14.94 crore devotees have visited the Kumbh so far. Police are using gas balloons as an indicator for the public to locate the lost and found centres run by them. The Kumbh Mela commenced on January 15 on Makar Sankranti and Mahashivratri on March 4 will mark its culmination.

Devotees prefer early-morning dip at Kumbh to avoid rush, reach back home in time

More snowfall and rain is expected to lash Himachal Pradesh next week, the meteorological department said Sunday.

The weatherman has forecast snowfall and rain at some places in mid and high hills while thundershowers in low hills and plains from February 12 to 15.

Cloudy skies prevailed in most parts of the state Sunday, with tourist spots Manali and Kufri experiencing biting cold at minus two and minus 0.5 degrees Celsius respectively from 5.30 pm Saturday to 8.30 am Sunday, he added.

The tribal district Lahaul and Spiti's administrative centre Keylong continued to be the coldest place at minus 11.6 degrees Celsius, the Met office said, adding, the minimum temperature in tribal district Kinnaur's Kalpa was minus 4.6 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature in Shimla was 2.5 degrees Celsius followed by Solan (2.4), Chail (2.3) and Dalhousie (1.2).

More snowfall and rain is expected to lash Himachal Pradesh next week, the meteorological department said Sunday. The weatherman has forecast snowfall and rain at some places in mid and high hills while thundershowers in low hills and plains from February 12 to 15.

More snowfall and rain is expected to lash Himachal Pradesh next week, the meteorological department said Sunday. The weatherman has forecast snowfall and rain at some places in mid and high hills while thundershowers in low hills and plains from February 12 to 15. Cloudy skies prevailed in most parts of the state Sunday, with tourist spots Manali and Kufri experiencing biting cold at minus two and minus 0.5 degrees Celsius respectively from 5.30 pm Saturday to 8.30 am Sunday, he added. The tribal district Lahaul and Spiti's administrative centre Keylong continued to be the coldest place at minus 11.6 degrees Celsius, the Met office said, adding, the minimum temperature in tribal district Kinnaur's Kalpa was minus 4.6 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Shimla was 2.5 degrees Celsius followed by Solan (2.4), Chail (2.3) and Dalhousie (1.2).

Himachal Pradesh to receive more snowfall, rain next week

Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences.

"In the wake of the economic offences by some individuals, I implore industry bodies to weed out black sheeps who give a bad name to the business community," he said at "The Huddle," a thought conclave held by 'The Hindu' here.

"Time also has come for various nations to arrive at a consensus in not providing shelter to economic fugitives," he added.

These remarks come in the wake of industrialist Vijay Mallya's possible extradition to India from the United Kingdom.

A UK court on December 10 last year had ordered the extradition of Mallya, who is wanted in India for alleged fraud and money laundering involving an estimated Rs 9,000 crore.

"It should be remembered that such economic offences pose a direct challenge to a nation's health and wealth," Naidu said.

Voicing concern about the disruptions in the functioning of Parliament and legislatures, Naidu said the time has come for political parties to evolve a code of conduct for their MPs and MLAs and ensure effective functioning if these Houses have to fulfil the aspirations of people.

"It is truly unfortunate that disorder and disruptions have become the order of the day," he said.

He said he also felt that political parties should not resort to populist, impractical and short-term promises to win elections as the country's economy would suffer in the long-term due to unproductive schemes.

 
"We need to empower people to stand on their feet, rather than making them increasingly dependent on governments," Naidu said.

The vice-president said the delicate balance between the executive, legislature and judiciary should be maintained at all times and nobody should encroach into the domain of the other.

"The wheels of democracy will run smoothly as long as each wing functions within its demarcated domain and not overstep into other's jurisdiction," he added.

Naidu said the other major challenge the country needs to address on a war footing is the deficiencies in infrastructure development and the central government is already addressing the issue by building road and highway networks, developing ports and promoting regional air connectivity.

The Public-Private Partnership projects have to be scaled up for accelerating the pace of infrastructure development and need to promote massive infrastructure projects for the country to compete with other countries, Naidu said.

On the media scenario in India, he said some of the news stories are slanted to suit the views of the management and media outlets are being started for commercial and political considerations, not for providing pure and unadulterated news to the people.

Mindless sensationalism and paid news are some of the concerns that media professionals themselves need to address, he added.

Media associations should also come out with a code of conduct for journalists to ensure professional integrity, the vice-president said.

Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences.

Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences. "In the wake of the economic offences by some individuals, I implore industry bodies to weed out black sheeps who give a bad name to the business community," he said at "The Huddle," a thought conclave held by 'The Hindu' here. "Time also has come for various nations to arrive at a consensus in not providing shelter to economic fugitives," he added. These remarks come in the wake of industrialist Vijay Mallya's possible extradition to India from the United Kingdom. A UK court on December 10 last year had ordered the extradition of Mallya, who is wanted in India for alleged fraud and money laundering involving an estimated Rs 9,000 crore. "It should be remembered that such economic offences pose a direct challenge to a nation's health and wealth," Naidu said. Voicing concern about the disruptions in the functioning of Parliament and legislatures, Naidu said the time has come for political parties to evolve a code of conduct for their MPs and MLAs and ensure effective functioning if these Houses have to fulfil the aspirations of people. "It is truly unfortunate that disorder and disruptions have become the order of the day," he said. He said he also felt that political parties should not resort to populist, impractical and short-term promises to win elections as the country's economy would suffer in the long-term due to unproductive schemes. "We need to empower people to stand on their feet, rather than making them increasingly dependent on governments," Naidu said. The vice-president said the delicate balance between the executive, legislature and judiciary should be maintained at all times and nobody should encroach into the domain of the other. "The wheels of democracy will run smoothly as long as each wing functions within its demarcated domain and not overstep into other's jurisdiction," he added. Naidu said the other major challenge the country needs to address on a war footing is the deficiencies in infrastructure development and the central government is already addressing the issue by building road and highway networks, developing ports and promoting regional air connectivity. The Public-Private Partnership projects have to be scaled up for accelerating the pace of infrastructure development and need to promote massive infrastructure projects for the country to compete with other countries, Naidu said. On the media scenario in India, he said some of the news stories are slanted to suit the views of the management and media outlets are being started for commercial and political considerations, not for providing pure and unadulterated news to the people. Mindless sensationalism and paid news are some of the concerns that media professionals themselves need to address, he added. Media associations should also come out with a code of conduct for journalists to ensure professional integrity, the vice-president said.

Nations should not give shelter to economic fugitives says Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department on Saturday said it has extended the adoption of interactive forms of statement of claims filed before courts by including the Hindi language alongside Arabic and English in labour cases.

This is aimed at helping Hindi speakers to learn about litigation procedures, their rights and duties without a language barrier, in addition to facilitating registration procedures via unified forms available through the ADJD website, the judicial body said.

According to official figures, the UAE population is estimated to be around five million of which 2/3rd are immigrants from foreign countries.

The Indian community in the UAE, numbering 2.6 million, constitutes 30 per cent of the total population and is the largest expatriate community in the country.

Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the undersecretary of the ADJD, said the adoption of multilingual interactive forms for claim sheets, grievances, and requests, aims to promote judicial services in line with the plan Tomorrow 2021 and increase the transparency of litigation procedures.

"This is in addition to facilitating registration procedures to the public through simplified and easy forms and raising litigants' legal awareness via interactive forms of the statements of claims, to ensure access to the legal materials related to the subject of the dispute," Al Abri was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times.

He indicated that the extension of the adoption of interactive forms in several languages comes under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and ADJD Chairman.

Al Abri explained that the adoption of new languages comes as part of the bilingual litigation system, the first phase of which was launched in November 2018, through the adoption of procedures requiring the plaintiffs to translate the case documents in civil and commercial lawsuits into English, if the defendant is a foreigner.&nbsp;

"The foreign investor receives the case files translated, thus contributing to the provision of a global judicial service that meets the requirements of residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi," he added.&nbsp;

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice.

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department on Saturday said it has extended the adoption of interactive forms of statement of claims filed before courts by including the Hindi language alongside Arabic and English in labour cases. This is aimed at helping Hindi speakers to learn about litigation procedures, their rights and duties without a language barrier, in addition to facilitating registration procedures via unified forms available through the ADJD website, the judicial body said. According to official figures, the UAE population is estimated to be around five million of which 2/3rd are immigrants from foreign countries. The Indian community in the UAE, numbering 2.6 million, constitutes 30 per cent of the total population and is the largest expatriate community in the country. Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the undersecretary of the ADJD, said the adoption of multilingual interactive forms for claim sheets, grievances, and requests, aims to promote judicial services in line with the plan Tomorrow 2021 and increase the transparency of litigation procedures. "This is in addition to facilitating registration procedures to the public through simplified and easy forms and raising litigants' legal awareness via interactive forms of the statements of claims, to ensure access to the legal materials related to the subject of the dispute," Al Abri was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times. He indicated that the extension of the adoption of interactive forms in several languages comes under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and ADJD Chairman. Al Abri explained that the adoption of new languages comes as part of the bilingual litigation system, the first phase of which was launched in November 2018, through the adoption of procedures requiring the plaintiffs to translate the case documents in civil and commercial lawsuits into English, if the defendant is a foreigner. "The foreign investor receives the case files translated, thus contributing to the provision of a global judicial service that meets the requirements of residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi," he added.

Abu Dhabi to use Hindi as third official language in its courts alongside Arabic and English

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.&nbsp;

Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise".

He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna.&nbsp;

Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election.&nbsp;

Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi.&nbsp;

"He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)."&nbsp;

Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury."&nbsp;

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PM in Guntur: Ye (Chandrababu Naidu) kal photo khichwane ke liye Delhi jane wale hain, bada hujoom le ke jane wale hain, party ka bigul bajane. Lekin BJP jaise apne karyakartaon ke paiso se karyakram kara rahi hai, vo Andhra ki janta ki tijori se paise nikaal kar ke ja rahe hain. <a href="https://t.co/RMkgmhqeJj">pic.twitter.com/RMkgmhqeJj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094491585159430144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi in AP: Unhone (Chandrababu Naidu) Andhra Pradesh ke sun rise ka waada kiya tha, lekin apne ‘son’ ko hi rise karane main jutt gaye hain, unhone Andhra ke gareebon ke liye nayi yojnaein chalane ka wada kiya tha, lekin Modi ki yojanaon par hi apna sticker laga diya hai. <a href="https://t.co/gZKntjqf0B">pic.twitter.com/gZKntjqf0B</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094485648277291009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.&nbsp;

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday. Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise". He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna. Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election. Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi. "He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)." Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury." PM in Guntur: Ye (Chandrababu Naidu) kal photo khichwane ke liye Delhi jane wale hain, bada hujoom le ke jane wale hain, party ka bigul bajane. Lekin BJP jaise apne karyakartaon ke paiso se karyakram kara rahi hai, vo Andhra ki janta ki tijori se paise nikaal kar ke ja rahe hain. pic.twitter.com/RMkgmhqeJj — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × PM Modi in AP: Unhone (Chandrababu Naidu) Andhra Pradesh ke sun rise ka waada kiya tha, lekin apne ‘son’ ko hi rise karane main jutt gaye hain, unhone Andhra ke gareebon ke liye nayi yojnaein chalane ka wada kiya tha, lekin Modi ki yojanaon par hi apna sticker laga diya hai. pic.twitter.com/gZKntjqf0B — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.

Chandrababu Naidu promised 'sun rise' in Andhra, but he is stuck on making 'son rise': Modi

A parliamentary panel has taken strong exception to the utilisation of Nirbhaya Fund in the construction of buildings, saying such allocations virtually defeat the very purpose of the project — the women safety.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, headed by Congress leader P Chidambaram, said, "The committee is also of the firm view that funds for construction of buildings should come from other sources and not from the Nirbhaya Fund.&nbsp;

"Nirbhaya Fund should not be used for the construction of buildings. Such allocations virtually defeat the purpose of it," the panel said in its report submitted to the Rajya Sabha last week.

The committee said it strongly recommends that the home ministry should desist from sanctioning funds for schemes like construction of buildings from the Nirbhaya Fund and adhere to its original purpose.

The Nirbhaya Fund was started in 2013 by the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government to implement initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women across the country.

The non-lapsable corpus fund was instituted following gang-rape of a girl in Delhi in 2012 which triggered a nation-wide outrage and protests.

The committee said that sanctioning money from Nirbhaya Fund for schemes pertaining to compensation would render it as a fund for mere disbursal and would not have a desired impact at the ground-level in enhancing the security scenario for the women.

The panel observed that Rs 200 crore has been sanctioned as a one-time grant for Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) Scheme for compensating women victims of acid attacks, rape, trafficking, etc.

It appreciated the necessity and significance of the CVCF Scheme, however, suggesting that this scheme could have been funded from other sources.

The committee took note of the reply of the home ministry that the decreased allocation made for 'Schemes of Safety of Women' was primarily because most of the expenditure out of the approved outlay for Emergency Response Support System had already been incurred up to 2017-18.&nbsp;

The committee, however, felt that the home ministry should have been "more proactive in finding new technology-driven projects" that could have been implemented during the current fiscal year.

"The committee feels that ministry should identify such innovative projects for funding and implementation.

"The committee, therefore, recommends that the ministry should undertake sincere efforts to identify innovative technology-driven projects that can enhance the safety of women, and seek additional funds for their implementation," it said.&nbsp;

A parliamentary panel has taken strong exception to the utilisation of Nirbhaya Fund in the construction of buildings, saying such allocations virtually defeat the very purpose of the project — the women safety.

A parliamentary panel has taken strong exception to the utilisation of Nirbhaya Fund in the construction of buildings, saying such allocations virtually defeat the very purpose of the project — the women safety. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, headed by Congress leader P Chidambaram, said, "The committee is also of the firm view that funds for construction of buildings should come from other sources and not from the Nirbhaya Fund. "Nirbhaya Fund should not be used for the construction of buildings. Such allocations virtually defeat the purpose of it," the panel said in its report submitted to the Rajya Sabha last week. The committee said it strongly recommends that the home ministry should desist from sanctioning funds for schemes like construction of buildings from the Nirbhaya Fund and adhere to its original purpose. The Nirbhaya Fund was started in 2013 by the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government to implement initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women across the country. The non-lapsable corpus fund was instituted following gang-rape of a girl in Delhi in 2012 which triggered a nation-wide outrage and protests. The committee said that sanctioning money from Nirbhaya Fund for schemes pertaining to compensation would render it as a fund for mere disbursal and would not have a desired impact at the ground-level in enhancing the security scenario for the women. The panel observed that Rs 200 crore has been sanctioned as a one-time grant for Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) Scheme for compensating women victims of acid attacks, rape, trafficking, etc. It appreciated the necessity and significance of the CVCF Scheme, however, suggesting that this scheme could have been funded from other sources. The committee took note of the reply of the home ministry that the decreased allocation made for 'Schemes of Safety of Women' was primarily because most of the expenditure out of the approved outlay for Emergency Response Support System had already been incurred up to 2017-18. The committee, however, felt that the home ministry should have been "more proactive in finding new technology-driven projects" that could have been implemented during the current fiscal year. "The committee feels that ministry should identify such innovative projects for funding and implementation. "The committee, therefore, recommends that the ministry should undertake sincere efforts to identify innovative technology-driven projects that can enhance the safety of women, and seek additional funds for their implementation," it said.

Parliamentary panel takes exception to Nirbhaya Fund being used for construction of buildings

The Dr BR Ambedkar National Memorial Museum in New Delhi is probably the first of its kind in India. Built in the shape of an open book signifying the constitution, the museum gives visitors a free of cost audio-visual experience of the constitution and its architect- Ambedkar.

Upon entry, staff help visitors download a guide app using the museum’s WiFi. The ground floor of the museum has 17 exhibits detailing Ambedkar’s life. Visitors can scan the QR code using the app at every exhibit to get the information about that particular display.

Much to visitors’ delight, the museum also has a humanoid of Ambedkar which narrates the speeches that Babasaheb delivered in the Constituent Assembly.

Apart from the digital experience, the exhibits also give rare insights into Ambedkar’s life. An exhibition dedicated to the leader’s second wife Ramabai tells visitors how the jurist became Babasaheb.

The display read, “Ramabai’s death in 1935 had such a profound impact on Ambedkar that he slipped into a life desolate state of mind. After he emerged from that state, people started calling him Babasaheb (Respected father).”

Priya Sharma, a Delhi University student, who was visiting the museum for the first time has vowed to promote it. She said, “I never knew that prominent world leaders like Barack Obama had mentioned Ambedkar in their speeches. More people need to know about this.”

The museum boasts of a heavy footfall. The staff said that on weekends, the memorial received over 200 visitors including students and activists, some from Maharashtra.

Habiba Hermanadi, a Delhi University student from Indonesia said that Ambedkar’s teaching are taught in universities across her country.

She said “Like India, there was discrimination in Indonesia as well but the difference was that, in India Ambedkar built the constitution to protect the rights of the minorities.”

The memorial’s basement brings alive the Indian Constitution. It allows visitors to explore the original manuscript of the world’s longest written constitution digitally. It’s an experience that is out of bounds for most Indians as the only original copies of the document are kept in the Parliament’s Library.

But the exhibits are not the only thing striking about the museum. In perhaps another first for a museum, a sign at the entry said “Demonstration and Sloganeering are prohibited.” &nbsp;

The sign appeared ironic to Hermanadi. She said, “One time you’re talking about how Ambedkar taught people to fight for their rights, and then you stop them from exercising those very rights.

The staff said that protests have been banned here since it’s a government building. Yet, museums are among the unlikeliest places to hold demonstrations. But this place is much more than a museum.&nbsp;

It has been built on the land where Ambedkar breathed his last in 1956.

The museum was inaugurated amid much fanfare by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, last year.

But many feel that while the BJP has been trying to appropriate Ambedkar, it has not been aiming to embrace his ideology.

Prominent Dalit rights activist Paul Divakar said, “The BJP like most political parties has been trying to appropriate Ambedkar to woo vote banks. But in reality, crimes against Dalits and tribals have increased in its five-year rule.”

The Dr BR Ambedkar National Memorial Museum in New Delhi is probably the first of its kind in India. Built in the shape of an open book signifying the constitution, the museum gives visitors a free of cost audio-visual experience of the constitution and its architect- Ambedkar.

The Dr BR Ambedkar National Memorial Museum in New Delhi is probably the first of its kind in India. Built in the shape of an open book signifying the constitution, the museum gives visitors a free of cost audio-visual experience of the constitution and its architect- Ambedkar. Upon entry, staff help visitors download a guide app using the museum’s WiFi. The ground floor of the museum has 17 exhibits detailing Ambedkar’s life. Visitors can scan the QR code using the app at every exhibit to get the information about that particular display. Much to visitors’ delight, the museum also has a humanoid of Ambedkar which narrates the speeches that Babasaheb delivered in the Constituent Assembly. Apart from the digital experience, the exhibits also give rare insights into Ambedkar’s life. An exhibition dedicated to the leader’s second wife Ramabai tells visitors how the jurist became Babasaheb. The display read, “Ramabai’s death in 1935 had such a profound impact on Ambedkar that he slipped into a life desolate state of mind. After he emerged from that state, people started calling him Babasaheb (Respected father).” Priya Sharma, a Delhi University student, who was visiting the museum for the first time has vowed to promote it. She said, “I never knew that prominent world leaders like Barack Obama had mentioned Ambedkar in their speeches. More people need to know about this.” The museum boasts of a heavy footfall. The staff said that on weekends, the memorial received over 200 visitors including students and activists, some from Maharashtra. Habiba Hermanadi, a Delhi University student from Indonesia said that Ambedkar’s teaching are taught in universities across her country. She said “Like India, there was discrimination in Indonesia as well but the difference was that, in India Ambedkar built the constitution to protect the rights of the minorities.” The memorial’s basement brings alive the Indian Constitution. It allows visitors to explore the original manuscript of the world’s longest written constitution digitally. It’s an experience that is out of bounds for most Indians as the only original copies of the document are kept in the Parliament’s Library. But the exhibits are not the only thing striking about the museum. In perhaps another first for a museum, a sign at the entry said “Demonstration and Sloganeering are prohibited.” The sign appeared ironic to Hermanadi. She said, “One time you’re talking about how Ambedkar taught people to fight for their rights, and then you stop them from exercising those very rights. The staff said that protests have been banned here since it’s a government building. Yet, museums are among the unlikeliest places to hold demonstrations. But this place is much more than a museum. It has been built on the land where Ambedkar breathed his last in 1956. The museum was inaugurated amid much fanfare by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, last year. But many feel that while the BJP has been trying to appropriate Ambedkar, it has not been aiming to embrace his ideology. Prominent Dalit rights activist Paul Divakar said, “The BJP like most political parties has been trying to appropriate Ambedkar to woo vote banks. But in reality, crimes against Dalits and tribals have increased in its five-year rule.”

Ambedkar National Memorial: A one of a kind experience

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">prime minister</a>, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe.&nbsp;

"Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state.&nbsp;

In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point.

Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": &nbsp;

"One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.''

Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.''

Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said.

While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here."

Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The prime minister, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe. "Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state. In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point. Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": "One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.'' Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.'' Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said. While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here." Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own.

Chandrababu Naidu stabbed his father-in-law in the back: Modi in Andhra

The Central Bureau of Investigation began questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar again on Sunday.&nbsp;

ANI meanwhile quoted sources as saying Sunday's questioning was not being videotaped.&nbsp;

Kumar was grilled by the CBI for nearly nine hours in Shillong on Saturday.&nbsp;

The CBI did not brief the media after the questioning.&nbsp;

Kumar's counsel Biswajit Deb, who is also the TMC coordinator for Meghalaya, said Kumar is "cooperating and complying" with the CBI.

"He (Kumar) has come here on the orders of the Supreme Court. He has complied earlier and he is complying now as per the orders," he told reporters outside the CBI office.&nbsp;

WION had reported yesterday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-police-chief-rajeev-kumar-insists-on-video-recording-of-session-with-cbi-officials-196292">Kumar had insisted on the CBI videotaping all eight hours of the interview</a>.&nbsp;

Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh was also at the CBI office on Sunday.&nbsp;

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Meghalaya: Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh outside CBI office in Shillong, says, 'I have been asked by the CBI to attend this office, so I’m here. I have cooperated with the investigating agency.' He is to be questioned by CBI today. <a href="https://t.co/LmwIeyAXZo">pic.twitter.com/LmwIeyAXZo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094455339938865153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The CBI is relying on a 91-page letter from Ghosh, who was expelled by TMC, to the Enforcement Directorate, detailing the role of Kumar in handling the ponzi scam probe after the main accused, Sudipta Sen and Debjani Mukherjee, both promoters of Saradha Group of companies, had fled to Kashmir, officials said in Kolkata.

Sen and Mukherjee were arrested in 2013 from Kashmir.

Ghosh had implicated BJP leader Mukul Roy, who was once the right-hand man of Banerjee and 12 others in the Saradha scam.

The Supreme Court had directed Kumar on Tuesday to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate in the investigation of cases arising out of the Saradha chit fund scam.

The apex court had also directed Kumar to appear before the investigating agency at a neutral place in Shillong "to avoid all unnecessary controversy" and made clear that he would not be arrested.

The CBI had moved the Supreme Court after its officials were thwarted by Kolkata Police when they had gone to Kumar's official residence in Kolkata to question him on February 3.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had rushed to the spot and had staged a three-day "Save the Constitution"&nbsp;dharna against the CBI move.

The central investigating agency had said that its officials had wanted to question Kumar to plug the holes in the Saradha investigation case as he was supposed to be in possession of certain key documents as a member of the special investigation team.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation began questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar again on Sunday. ANI meanwhile quoted sources as saying Sunday's questioning was not being videotaped.

The Central Bureau of Investigation began questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar again on Sunday. ANI meanwhile quoted sources as saying Sunday's questioning was not being videotaped. Kumar was grilled by the CBI for nearly nine hours in Shillong on Saturday. The CBI did not brief the media after the questioning. Kumar's counsel Biswajit Deb, who is also the TMC coordinator for Meghalaya, said Kumar is "cooperating and complying" with the CBI. "He (Kumar) has come here on the orders of the Supreme Court. He has complied earlier and he is complying now as per the orders," he told reporters outside the CBI office. WION had reported yesterday that Kumar had insisted on the CBI videotaping all eight hours of the interview. Former TMC MP Kunal Ghosh was also at the CBI office on Sunday. Meghalaya: Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh outside CBI office in Shillong, says, 'I have been asked by the CBI to attend this office, so I’m here. I have cooperated with the investigating agency.' He is to be questioned by CBI today. pic.twitter.com/LmwIeyAXZo — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × The CBI is relying on a 91-page letter from Ghosh, who was expelled by TMC, to the Enforcement Directorate, detailing the role of Kumar in handling the ponzi scam probe after the main accused, Sudipta Sen and Debjani Mukherjee, both promoters of Saradha Group of companies, had fled to Kashmir, officials said in Kolkata. Sen and Mukherjee were arrested in 2013 from Kashmir. Ghosh had implicated BJP leader Mukul Roy, who was once the right-hand man of Banerjee and 12 others in the Saradha scam. The Supreme Court had directed Kumar on Tuesday to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate in the investigation of cases arising out of the Saradha chit fund scam. The apex court had also directed Kumar to appear before the investigating agency at a neutral place in Shillong "to avoid all unnecessary controversy" and made clear that he would not be arrested. The CBI had moved the Supreme Court after its officials were thwarted by Kolkata Police when they had gone to Kumar's official residence in Kolkata to question him on February 3. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had rushed to the spot and had staged a three-day "Save the Constitution" dharna against the CBI move. The central investigating agency had said that its officials had wanted to question Kumar to plug the holes in the Saradha investigation case as he was supposed to be in possession of certain key documents as a member of the special investigation team. (With inputs from PTI)

CBI begins questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar again, sources say interview not being videotaped

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar arrived at the CBI office in Shillong on Saturday morning for questioning by the probe agency in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

A CBI team from New Delhi also reached its office in Shillong to probe Kolkata`s top cop.

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Meghalaya: Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar arrives at the CBI office in Shillong. He will be questioned here today in connection with Saradha chit fund scam. <a href="https://t.co/rT3naYZz6E">pic.twitter.com/rT3naYZz6E</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094104625765060608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On February 7, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had summoned &nbsp;Kumar for questioning on February 9 in the case related to Saradha chit fund scam.

On February 5, the Supreme Court had directed the 1989-batch IPS officer to appear before the CBI in connection with the scam.

&nbsp;The apex Court had said that no coercive step should be taken against Kumar, who will now appear before the probe agency in Shillong in Meghalaya.

The Supreme Court directive had come against the backdrop of a ‘dharna’ organised by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata in protest against the CBI’s move to enter Kumar’s office without any warrant from the competent court.

Kumar has been serving as Kolkata’s Police Commissioner since January 2016. He is said to have not responded to the earlier summons from the CBI in connection with the probe into the Rose Valley and Saradha ponzi scams.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar arrived at the CBI office in Shillong on Saturday morning for questioning by the probe agency in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar arrived at the CBI office in Shillong on Saturday morning for questioning by the probe agency in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. A CBI team from New Delhi also reached its office in Shillong to probe Kolkata`s top cop. Meghalaya: Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar arrives at the CBI office in Shillong. He will be questioned here today in connection with Saradha chit fund scam. pic.twitter.com/rT3naYZz6E — ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2019 × On February 7, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had summoned Kumar for questioning on February 9 in the case related to Saradha chit fund scam. On February 5, the Supreme Court had directed the 1989-batch IPS officer to appear before the CBI in connection with the scam. The apex Court had said that no coercive step should be taken against Kumar, who will now appear before the probe agency in Shillong in Meghalaya. The Supreme Court directive had come against the backdrop of a ‘dharna’ organised by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata in protest against the CBI’s move to enter Kumar’s office without any warrant from the competent court. Kumar has been serving as Kolkata’s Police Commissioner since January 2016. He is said to have not responded to the earlier summons from the CBI in connection with the probe into the Rose Valley and Saradha ponzi scams.

CBI questions Kolkata Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in Shillong

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday inaugurated several projects and laid foundation stone of many vital schemes worth over Rs 4,000 crore for Arunachal Pradesh at a function in Itanagar.

Modi laid the foundation stone for construction of greenfield Airport at Hollongi and inaugurated a retrofitted airport at Tezu in Lohit district through a remote.

He inaugurated the new Doordarshan channel for Arunachal Pradesh, DD Arun Prabha.

The prime minister also dedicated to the nation the 110 MW Pare Hydroelectric Plant and laid the foundation stone for a permanent campus of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) at Jote.

The prime minister inaugurated 50 health and wellness centers in the state also through remote at the function at IG Park here.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday inaugurated several projects and laid foundation stone of many vital schemes worth over Rs 4,000 crore for Arunachal Pradesh at a function in Itanagar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday inaugurated several projects and laid foundation stone of many vital schemes worth over Rs 4,000 crore for Arunachal Pradesh at a function in Itanagar. Modi laid the foundation stone for construction of greenfield Airport at Hollongi and inaugurated a retrofitted airport at Tezu in Lohit district through a remote. He inaugurated the new Doordarshan channel for Arunachal Pradesh, DD Arun Prabha. The prime minister also dedicated to the nation the 110 MW Pare Hydroelectric Plant and laid the foundation stone for a permanent campus of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) at Jote. The prime minister inaugurated 50 health and wellness centers in the state also through remote at the function at IG Park here.

PM inaugurates and lays foundation of projects worth Rs 4000 crore in Arunachal Pradesh

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, on Saturday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the third time in connection with a probe into allegations of money laundering in the purchase of assets abroad.

Vadra arrived at the central probe agency's office at Jamnagar House in central Delhi at about 10.45 am in his private vehicle.

Officials said the investigating officer (IO) of the case required Vadra to answer more questions in connection with the case and hence was asked to depose on Saturday, after his two sessions of questioning on February 6 and 7. 
W 
hile Vadra was grilled for the first time for about five-and-a-half hours, he was questioned the second time for about 9 hours.

It is understood that the last time Vadra was "confronted with" documents that the agency had obtained or seized as part of its probe in the case, including those linked to absconding defence dealer Sanjay Bhandari.

Vadra has also shared documents with the investigating officer of the case and has assured some more will be provided as and when he gets them, official sources had said.

The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him.

The agency has told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties.

Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

Sources said Vadra's statement is being recorded under Section 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and to give evidence) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, as was done the last two times.

His appearance before the ED acquired political overtones after his wife Priyanka Gandhi, recently appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, accompanied him to the investigating agency's office on Wednesday while she picked him up after questioning on Thursday.

Vadra is also expected to depose before the ED on February 12 in Jaipur in another money-laundering case related to a land scam in Bikaner. The Rajasthan High Court has directed him to cooperate with the agency in the case.

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, on Saturday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the third time in connection with a probe into allegations of money laundering in the purchase of assets abroad.

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, on Saturday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the third time in connection with a probe into allegations of money laundering in the purchase of assets abroad. Vadra arrived at the central probe agency's office at Jamnagar House in central Delhi at about 10.45 am in his private vehicle. Officials said the investigating officer (IO) of the case required Vadra to answer more questions in connection with the case and hence was asked to depose on Saturday, after his two sessions of questioning on February 6 and 7. W hile Vadra was grilled for the first time for about five-and-a-half hours, he was questioned the second time for about 9 hours. It is understood that the last time Vadra was "confronted with" documents that the agency had obtained or seized as part of its probe in the case, including those linked to absconding defence dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Vadra has also shared documents with the investigating officer of the case and has assured some more will be provided as and when he gets them, official sources had said. The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him. The agency has told a Delhi court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties. Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends. Sources said Vadra's statement is being recorded under Section 50 (powers of authorities regarding summons, production of documents and to give evidence) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, as was done the last two times. His appearance before the ED acquired political overtones after his wife Priyanka Gandhi, recently appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, accompanied him to the investigating agency's office on Wednesday while she picked him up after questioning on Thursday. Vadra is also expected to depose before the ED on February 12 in Jaipur in another money-laundering case related to a land scam in Bikaner. The Rajasthan High Court has directed him to cooperate with the agency in the case.

Robert Vadra appears before ED for third time in money laundering case probe

Kolkata Police commissioner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-question-kolkata-police-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-on-february-9-in-shillong-195887">Rajeev Kumar</a> was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-rose-valley-ponzi-schemes-cbi-team-shows-up-at-kolkata-police-commissioners-home-194871">Centre vs Bengal: CBI team shows up at Kolkata Police chief's home, accuses him of obstructing justice</a>

Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency again for questioning tomorrow to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-may-take-back-kolkata-police-chiefs-medals-mha-sources-195827">Kumar</a> was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI.

Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-police-raid-firms-linked-to-ex-interim-cbi-chief-196108">Kolkata Police</a> commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim.

He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm.

On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar.

The CBI had issued an order dated February 6, 2019, asking 10 officers to join the Kolkata unit with an immediate effect and to be prepared to stay with the team till February 20, 2019.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar.

The CBI had alleged in the apex court that Kumar had tried to tamper the evidence while investigating the case when he was heading the SIT.

A political slugfest began after CBI officers had reached Kumar’s residence in Kolkata on Sunday. The CBI had claimed that they were prevented from meeting the commissioner and were forcibly taken to the Shakespeare Sarani police station by Kolkata Police and were later detained.&nbsp;

However, Kolkata Police had ruled out the allegations of detaining CBI officers. "This is unprecedented. We have never faced a situation of this sort before. We were prevented from doing our job," CBI DSP Tathagata Vardhan had said on Sunday outside the police station.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had immediately reached Kumar’s residence and announced that she will stage a ‘Satyagraha’ on the metro channel. The sit-in was staged for almost 40 hours before she finally decided to call it off after Supreme Court passed an order preventing the CBI from arresting Kumar.

Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams.

Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams. Also read: Centre vs Bengal: CBI team shows up at Kolkata Police chief's home, accuses him of obstructing justice Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency again for questioning tomorrow to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar. Kumar was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI. Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity. Kolkata Police commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim. He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm. On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar. The CBI had issued an order dated February 6, 2019, asking 10 officers to join the Kolkata unit with an immediate effect and to be prepared to stay with the team till February 20, 2019. The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar. The CBI had alleged in the apex court that Kumar had tried to tamper the evidence while investigating the case when he was heading the SIT. A political slugfest began after CBI officers had reached Kumar’s residence in Kolkata on Sunday. The CBI had claimed that they were prevented from meeting the commissioner and were forcibly taken to the Shakespeare Sarani police station by Kolkata Police and were later detained. However, Kolkata Police had ruled out the allegations of detaining CBI officers. "This is unprecedented. We have never faced a situation of this sort before. We were prevented from doing our job," CBI DSP Tathagata Vardhan had said on Sunday outside the police station. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had immediately reached Kumar’s residence and announced that she will stage a ‘Satyagraha’ on the metro channel. The sit-in was staged for almost 40 hours before she finally decided to call it off after Supreme Court passed an order preventing the CBI from arresting Kumar.

CBI grills Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar for nearly 8 hours; agency to question him again on Sunday

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CBI grills Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar for nearly 8 hours; agency to question him again on Sunday