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The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered.

A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was told by the counsel for the Kerala government that no ground was made out in any of the petitions seeking review of its September 28, 2018 verdict.

Several organisations including the Nair Service Society (NSS) and the Thantri of the shrine, have advanced arguments before the bench and sought reconsideration of the verdict.

The former attorney general and senior advocate K Parasaran, appearing for the NSS, assailed the majority verdict, saying Article 15 of the Constitution throws open for all public the secular institutions of the country but it doesn't deal with religious institutions.

The article "throws open all public institutions of secular character for all classes of citizens but the article conspicuously omits religious institutions", he told the bench.

Seeking reconsideration of the verdict, he said the article which deals with the abolition of untouchability in society was wrongly used by the apex court in its judgment as the exclusion of certain age groups of women was not based on caste.

The advocate also referred to the celibate character of the deity at Sabarimala and said the court should have considered this aspect.

Senior advocate Jaideep Gupta appearing for the Kerala government told the bench also comprising justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra that there was a consensus among the four judges who delivered the majority judgment on three aspects, i.E., Article 26, 25 (2) and rule 3 (b) of the Kerala Act.

Gupta said in none of the review petitions questions have been raised regarding these three points and therefore other aspects "raised in the review petition will make no difference".

The arguments by those who have filed the review petition that certain submissions were not considered in the judgment or were not advanced is not a ground for re-examining the verdict, the advocate.

He said many of those who have sought a re-look of the judgment has not come out with valid legal points but have merely analysed the verdict by the way of a review petition and the court should not entertain them.

Another senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, also appearing for the Kerala government said a case cannot be allowed to be reopened by way of the review petition.

The state government said there is a distinction between the essential practice of a temple and the essential practice of the religion. If this essential practice test is applied temple wise then the purpose would be defeated, it said.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Travancore Devaswom Board's ex-chairperson, favoured submissions seeking review of the judgment.

"There is no exclusion of women. There is no exclusion of men. There is no exclusion of a class of men or women based on religion and caste. There is an exclusion inside a class (women). Hence Article 17 (removal of untouchability) under the Constitution will not apply," Singhvi said.

Dealing with the aspect of constitutional morality, the senior lawyer said that in a pluralistic diverse Hindu society this concept cannot be applied objectively by the court and it has to be subjective keeping in mind different kind of essential religious practices of Hindu religion.

Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphade, also appearing for a party in the case, said in a matter of faith, the court cannot direct a community to practice the religion in a particular manner.

"This is an internal affair of a religious community which worships a particular deity in a particular manner. This has never been in dispute that this practice is being followed for centuries.

"The court cannot issue a writ of mandamus against a community to practice its religion in a particular manner," Naphade said adding that this practice was an essential religious practice which cannot be scrutinised by the court.

He said that any religious practice cannot be stopped unless it constituted a criminal offence.

The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered.

The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered. A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was told by the counsel for the Kerala government that no ground was made out in any of the petitions seeking review of its September 28, 2018 verdict. Several organisations including the Nair Service Society (NSS) and the Thantri of the shrine, have advanced arguments before the bench and sought reconsideration of the verdict. The former attorney general and senior advocate K Parasaran, appearing for the NSS, assailed the majority verdict, saying Article 15 of the Constitution throws open for all public the secular institutions of the country but it doesn't deal with religious institutions. The article "throws open all public institutions of secular character for all classes of citizens but the article conspicuously omits religious institutions", he told the bench. Seeking reconsideration of the verdict, he said the article which deals with the abolition of untouchability in society was wrongly used by the apex court in its judgment as the exclusion of certain age groups of women was not based on caste. The advocate also referred to the celibate character of the deity at Sabarimala and said the court should have considered this aspect. Senior advocate Jaideep Gupta appearing for the Kerala government told the bench also comprising justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra that there was a consensus among the four judges who delivered the majority judgment on three aspects, i.E., Article 26, 25 (2) and rule 3 (b) of the Kerala Act. Gupta said in none of the review petitions questions have been raised regarding these three points and therefore other aspects "raised in the review petition will make no difference". The arguments by those who have filed the review petition that certain submissions were not considered in the judgment or were not advanced is not a ground for re-examining the verdict, the advocate. He said many of those who have sought a re-look of the judgment has not come out with valid legal points but have merely analysed the verdict by the way of a review petition and the court should not entertain them. Another senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, also appearing for the Kerala government said a case cannot be allowed to be reopened by way of the review petition. The state government said there is a distinction between the essential practice of a temple and the essential practice of the religion. If this essential practice test is applied temple wise then the purpose would be defeated, it said. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Travancore Devaswom Board's ex-chairperson, favoured submissions seeking review of the judgment. "There is no exclusion of women. There is no exclusion of men. There is no exclusion of a class of men or women based on religion and caste. There is an exclusion inside a class (women). Hence Article 17 (removal of untouchability) under the Constitution will not apply," Singhvi said. Dealing with the aspect of constitutional morality, the senior lawyer said that in a pluralistic diverse Hindu society this concept cannot be applied objectively by the court and it has to be subjective keeping in mind different kind of essential religious practices of Hindu religion. Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphade, also appearing for a party in the case, said in a matter of faith, the court cannot direct a community to practice the religion in a particular manner. "This is an internal affair of a religious community which worships a particular deity in a particular manner. This has never been in dispute that this practice is being followed for centuries. "The court cannot issue a writ of mandamus against a community to practice its religion in a particular manner," Naphade said adding that this practice was an essential religious practice which cannot be scrutinised by the court. He said that any religious practice cannot be stopped unless it constituted a criminal offence.

Kerala government opposes pleas seeking review of Supreme Court's Sabarimala verdict 

A Delhi court Wednesday extended till February 16 the interim protection from arrest granted to Manoj Arora, a close aide of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, in a money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) requested Special Judge Arvind Kumar that as the next date of hearing in Vadra's case was fixed for February 16, this case too is posted for the same date.

The case relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property -- located at 12, Bryanston Square -- worth 1.9 million pounds, which is allegedly owned by Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Wednesday extended till February 16 the interim protection from arrest granted to Manoj Arora, a close aide of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, in a money laundering case.

A Delhi court Wednesday extended till February 16 the interim protection from arrest granted to Manoj Arora, a close aide of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, in a money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) requested Special Judge Arvind Kumar that as the next date of hearing in Vadra's case was fixed for February 16, this case too is posted for the same date. The case relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property -- located at 12, Bryanston Square -- worth 1.9 million pounds, which is allegedly owned by Vadra, the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Delhi court extends interim protection from arrest to Robert Vadra’s aide till February 16 

Opposition BJP in Karnataka on Wednesday disrupted Governor Vajubhai Vala's address to the joint sitting of the state legislature here.

This is the first session after the cabinet expansion in December and political turmoil that engulfed the state following the alleged attempt by the BJP to topple the government by poaching disgruntled legislators of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition.

As soon as the governor started his customary address to the joint sitting, BJP members entered the Well of the House, asking him not to deliver the address.

"You are made to read lies, so please don't read it," BJP members said. 
However, Vala continued with his speech, even as BJP members intensified their sloganeering.

"We don't want a bundle of lies to be read. Down down... The government that has lost majority and trust," they shouted.

As the BJP's protest intensified, the governor said he is concluding his address, and it should be deemed as read. Vala read out the last paragraph of his speech.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, who also holds the Finance portfolio, is scheduled to present his coalition governments second budget on February 8.

Opposition BJP in Karnataka on Wednesday disrupted Governor Vajubhai Vala's address to the joint sitting of the state legislature here. This is the first session after the cabinet expansion in December and political turmoil that engulfed the state following the alleged attempt by the BJP to topple the government by poaching disgruntled legislators of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition.

Opposition BJP in Karnataka on Wednesday disrupted Governor Vajubhai Vala's address to the joint sitting of the state legislature here. This is the first session after the cabinet expansion in December and political turmoil that engulfed the state following the alleged attempt by the BJP to topple the government by poaching disgruntled legislators of the ruling JD(S)-Congress coalition. As soon as the governor started his customary address to the joint sitting, BJP members entered the Well of the House, asking him not to deliver the address. "You are made to read lies, so please don't read it," BJP members said. However, Vala continued with his speech, even as BJP members intensified their sloganeering. "We don't want a bundle of lies to be read. Down down... The government that has lost majority and trust," they shouted. As the BJP's protest intensified, the governor said he is concluding his address, and it should be deemed as read. Vala read out the last paragraph of his speech. Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, who also holds the Finance portfolio, is scheduled to present his coalition governments second budget on February 8.

Drama in Karnataka: Opposition MLAs create ruckus in legislature, disrupt Governor’s address

Muheeb and his two friends are Battle Royale game PUBG addicts, every day they play the game on their mobile phones for hours, even at night.&nbsp;

They find spots outside their home to play the game as their parents frequently ask them not to.&nbsp;

Today, three of them have gathered near a river embankment to finish a mission on their mobile phones.&nbsp;

Due to this addiction, deputy mayor of the city has sought a ban on the game following which Chief Secretary of the state has asked Home Department to examine and take appropriate action.&nbsp;

The game was also blamed for the poor performance of students in recently held 12th and 10th grande exams. But these young kids don't want the game to be banned.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"During the day, we play the game for 4 to 5 hours, when we are free. At night we play till 11 to 12. We really like this game, but our parents ask us not to play PUBG. But we really like this game," says Muheeb.&nbsp;

The addiction has got doctors in the state worried too. They have already received some cases where parents have taken their wards for medical consultation. Mobile version of the game has already become popular across the globe with some countries mulling to ban the game.&nbsp;

Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights has already issued an advisory against the game.&nbsp;

Doctors are now comparing the addiction to PUBG with drugs as players have developed behavioural, sleep and psychiatric disturbances.

"Its to give a gram of cocaine to youth. It has more addictive potential than drug abuse. I see a detoxification centre for drugs but we don't have anything for such addictions," says Doctor Nisar-ul-Hassan.

Muheeb and his two friends are Battle Royale game PUBG addicts, every day they play the game on their mobile phones for hours, even at night. They find spots outside their home to play the game as their parents frequently ask them not to.

Muheeb and his two friends are Battle Royale game PUBG addicts, every day they play the game on their mobile phones for hours, even at night. They find spots outside their home to play the game as their parents frequently ask them not to. Today, three of them have gathered near a river embankment to finish a mission on their mobile phones. Due to this addiction, deputy mayor of the city has sought a ban on the game following which Chief Secretary of the state has asked Home Department to examine and take appropriate action. The game was also blamed for the poor performance of students in recently held 12th and 10th grande exams. But these young kids don't want the game to be banned. "During the day, we play the game for 4 to 5 hours, when we are free. At night we play till 11 to 12. We really like this game, but our parents ask us not to play PUBG. But we really like this game," says Muheeb. The addiction has got doctors in the state worried too. They have already received some cases where parents have taken their wards for medical consultation. Mobile version of the game has already become popular across the globe with some countries mulling to ban the game. Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights has already issued an advisory against the game. Doctors are now comparing the addiction to PUBG with drugs as players have developed behavioural, sleep and psychiatric disturbances. "Its to give a gram of cocaine to youth. It has more addictive potential than drug abuse. I see a detoxification centre for drugs but we don't have anything for such addictions," says Doctor Nisar-ul-Hassan.

PUBG addiction dangerous like drug abuse, says J&K doctors; authority seeks a ban

A Delhi court on Wednesday gave Delhi Police time till February 28 to procure the sanctions needed to prosecute former Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-case-why-did-you-file-charge-sheet-without-legal-approval-delhi-court-raps-police-191352">Kanhaiya Kumar and others in a 2016 sedition case.&nbsp;</a>

The court told the police to ask the authorities concerned to expedite the sanctions.

The police told the court that the sanctions are pending with the Delhi government and are expected in a matter of days.&nbsp;

"Authorities can't sit on file for an indefinite period," the court said.

The court had earlier questioned Delhi Police for filing a charge sheet against Kumar and others without procuring the requisite sanctions and granted time till February 6.

On January 14, police filed the charge sheet against Kumar and former JNU students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya in a city court.

It said Kumar was leading a procession and supported seditious slogans during an event in the varsity on February 9, 2016, to mark the hanging of Parliament-attack mastermind Afzal Guru.

A Delhi court on Wednesday gave Delhi Police time till February 28 to procure the sanctions needed to prosecute former Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar and others in a 2016 sedition case.

A Delhi court on Wednesday gave Delhi Police time till February 28 to procure the sanctions needed to prosecute former Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar and others in a 2016 sedition case. The court told the police to ask the authorities concerned to expedite the sanctions. The police told the court that the sanctions are pending with the Delhi government and are expected in a matter of days. "Authorities can't sit on file for an indefinite period," the court said. The court had earlier questioned Delhi Police for filing a charge sheet against Kumar and others without procuring the requisite sanctions and granted time till February 6. On January 14, police filed the charge sheet against Kumar and former JNU students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya in a city court. It said Kumar was leading a procession and supported seditious slogans during an event in the varsity on February 9, 2016, to mark the hanging of Parliament-attack mastermind Afzal Guru.

JNU case: Delhi court gives police time till Feb 28 for sanctions to prosecute Kanhaiya and others

The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from activist and lawyer Prashant Bhushan on contempt pleas by Attorney General K K Venugopal and the Centre for his tweets allegedly criticising the court over the appointment of M Nageswara Rao as interim CBI director.

Bhushan was given three weeks to reply.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Naveen Sinha said it would deal with the larger question of whether it is open for lawyers or any other person to criticise the court in a sub judice matter which would lead to influencing public opinion.

Criticising the court may also lead to interference in the course of justice, the bench added.

"This issue required to be heard in length, notice issued," it said, listing the matter for further hearing on March 7.

Bhushan, in his tweets, alleged that the Centre, represented by Venugopal, misled the apex court on the issue of Rao's appointment.

On Tuesday, the Centre moved the apex court seeking initiation of contempt proceedings against Bhushan for his tweets and said they amounted to making a false statement in a pending case. This was days after Venugopal's contempt petition against Bhushan.

Venugopal, in his contempt plea, referred to the extracts of the minutes of the meeting of the high powered selection committee comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Justice A K Sikri and leader of the largest opposition party Mallikarjun Kharge.

The Centre's plea also referred to the contents of Venugopal's petition and submitted that they be also read as part of its plea.

Venugopal's petition referred to Bhushan's February 1 tweets in which he alleged that the government appeared to have misled the apex court and perhaps submitted fabricated minutes of the meeting of the high-powered selection committee.

Through his tweets, Venugopal said, Bhushan appeared to have deliberately intended to cast aspersions on the "integrity and honesty" of the attorney general who had placed the minutes of the meeting before the apex court during the February 1 hearing.

On February 1, a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra was hearing a petition filed by NGO Common Cause challenging the Centre's decision to appoint Rao, an IPS officer, as interim CBI director.

Venugopal said in his petition that Bhushan's tweets "scandalise or tend to scandalise and lower or tend to lower the authority of this court".

He said during the hearing on February 1, he had handed over to the bench the minutes of the meeting of the high-powered committee held on January 9 and January 10.

According to the petition, signatures of all the three members of the committee — were affixed in the decision taken by the panel.

Venugopal said Bhushan, in one of his tweets on February 1, had said, "I have just confirmed personally from the leader of opposition Mr Kharge that no discussion or decision in HPC meet was taken re-appointment of Nageswara Rao as interim Director of CBI. The govt appears to have misled the court and perhaps submitted fabricated minutes of the HPC meeting."

The attorney general said the statement/confirmation attributed to Kharge could never have been made by him for the simple reason that he himself had signed the minutes of the meeting which also contained the final decisions of the high-powered committee.

"If the minutes of the meeting were to be fabricated, the members of the high powered committee who constituted the majority would have to be parties to such fabrication as their signatures are contained on the very same page on which the decision is recorded in the minutes," the plea had said.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from activist and lawyer Prashant Bhushan on contempt pleas by Attorney General K K Venugopal and the Centre for his tweets allegedly criticising the court over the appointment of M Nageswara Rao as interim CBI director.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from activist and lawyer Prashant Bhushan on contempt pleas by Attorney General K K Venugopal and the Centre for his tweets allegedly criticising the court over the appointment of M Nageswara Rao as interim CBI director. Bhushan was given three weeks to reply. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Naveen Sinha said it would deal with the larger question of whether it is open for lawyers or any other person to criticise the court in a sub judice matter which would lead to influencing public opinion. Criticising the court may also lead to interference in the course of justice, the bench added. "This issue required to be heard in length, notice issued," it said, listing the matter for further hearing on March 7. Bhushan, in his tweets, alleged that the Centre, represented by Venugopal, misled the apex court on the issue of Rao's appointment. On Tuesday, the Centre moved the apex court seeking initiation of contempt proceedings against Bhushan for his tweets and said they amounted to making a false statement in a pending case. This was days after Venugopal's contempt petition against Bhushan. Venugopal, in his contempt plea, referred to the extracts of the minutes of the meeting of the high powered selection committee comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Justice A K Sikri and leader of the largest opposition party Mallikarjun Kharge. The Centre's plea also referred to the contents of Venugopal's petition and submitted that they be also read as part of its plea. Venugopal's petition referred to Bhushan's February 1 tweets in which he alleged that the government appeared to have misled the apex court and perhaps submitted fabricated minutes of the meeting of the high-powered selection committee. Through his tweets, Venugopal said, Bhushan appeared to have deliberately intended to cast aspersions on the "integrity and honesty" of the attorney general who had placed the minutes of the meeting before the apex court during the February 1 hearing. On February 1, a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra was hearing a petition filed by NGO Common Cause challenging the Centre's decision to appoint Rao, an IPS officer, as interim CBI director. Venugopal said in his petition that Bhushan's tweets "scandalise or tend to scandalise and lower or tend to lower the authority of this court". He said during the hearing on February 1, he had handed over to the bench the minutes of the meeting of the high-powered committee held on January 9 and January 10. According to the petition, signatures of all the three members of the committee — were affixed in the decision taken by the panel. Venugopal said Bhushan, in one of his tweets on February 1, had said, "I have just confirmed personally from the leader of opposition Mr Kharge that no discussion or decision in HPC meet was taken re-appointment of Nageswara Rao as interim Director of CBI. The govt appears to have misled the court and perhaps submitted fabricated minutes of the HPC meeting." The attorney general said the statement/confirmation attributed to Kharge could never have been made by him for the simple reason that he himself had signed the minutes of the meeting which also contained the final decisions of the high-powered committee. "If the minutes of the meeting were to be fabricated, the members of the high powered committee who constituted the majority would have to be parties to such fabrication as their signatures are contained on the very same page on which the decision is recorded in the minutes," the plea had said.

Supreme Court issues notice to lawyer Prashant Bhushan for tweet on appointment of CBI chief

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-mamata-standoff-supreme-court-asks-kolkata-police-commissioner-to-join-probe-says-he-cant-be-arrested-195215">"moral victory" after the Supreme Court</a> asked the police commissioner of Kolkata Rajeev Kumar to appear before the CBI court.&nbsp;

"We always wanted to cooperate, Centre has its own jurisdiction, states have theirs," West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said from the podium where she is on a dharna for the past three days.

"We welcome the Supreme Court verdict, our case is very strong," the West Bengal chief minister added. Mamata accused the central government of "political vendetta".

"All the citizens of this country will be the PM," she said, "We don't want a single Modi, all the people are entitled to prime ministership."

"Rajeev Kumar never said he will not be available. He said we want to meet at a mutual place,if you want to ask for any clarification, you can come and we can sit," the West Bengal chief minister told reporters.

Just to enter every house, just to arrest. Nobody is the big boss of this country," Mamata said while hitting out the CBI and the Centre. "Democracy and our constitution are the Bigg Boss of this country. They cannot fight a court case."

"I am not pleading for Rajeev Kumar I am pleading for millions of Indians. They have also filed contempt petition that is also not entertained," she said.

"What they started doing? They wanted to arrest him. They went to his house, on a secret operation on Sunday, without any notice. That court said "no arrest. We are so obliged. It will strengthen the morale of the officers,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Mamata said.

Supreme Court while deliberating on the case said no coercive steps, including arrest of Kolkata police chief Rajeev Kumar&nbsp;should&nbsp;take place. The top court also directed the West Bengal chief secretary, DGP and the Kolkata Police commissioner to file replies on contempt pleas moved by CBI against them.&nbsp;

Replies in the&nbsp;contempt petition filed by the CBI has to be placed by West Bengal chief secretary, DGP on or before Feb 18, India's highest court said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed "moral victory" after the Supreme Court asked the police commissioner of Kolkata Rajeev Kumar to appear before the CBI court.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed "moral victory" after the Supreme Court asked the police commissioner of Kolkata Rajeev Kumar to appear before the CBI court. "We always wanted to cooperate, Centre has its own jurisdiction, states have theirs," West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said from the podium where she is on a dharna for the past three days. "We welcome the Supreme Court verdict, our case is very strong," the West Bengal chief minister added. Mamata accused the central government of "political vendetta". "All the citizens of this country will be the PM," she said, "We don't want a single Modi, all the people are entitled to prime ministership." "Rajeev Kumar never said he will not be available. He said we want to meet at a mutual place,if you want to ask for any clarification, you can come and we can sit," the West Bengal chief minister told reporters. Just to enter every house, just to arrest. Nobody is the big boss of this country," Mamata said while hitting out the CBI and the Centre. "Democracy and our constitution are the Bigg Boss of this country. They cannot fight a court case." "I am not pleading for Rajeev Kumar I am pleading for millions of Indians. They have also filed contempt petition that is also not entertained," she said. "What they started doing? They wanted to arrest him. They went to his house, on a secret operation on Sunday, without any notice. That court said "no arrest. We are so obliged. It will strengthen the morale of the officers," Mamata said. Supreme Court while deliberating on the case said no coercive steps, including arrest of Kolkata police chief Rajeev Kumar should take place. The top court also directed the West Bengal chief secretary, DGP and the Kolkata Police commissioner to file replies on contempt pleas moved by CBI against them. Replies in the contempt petition filed by the CBI has to be placed by West Bengal chief secretary, DGP on or before Feb 18, India's highest court said.

Welcome Supreme Court verdict, our case is very strong: CM Mamata Banerjee

The United States President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-promises-sunny-state-of-union-speech-but-clouds-thicken-195206">Donald Trump</a> will give his annual <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-state-of-the-union-address-31215">State of the Union speech</a> on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency.

According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress.

In the address,&nbsp;Trump will also call on&nbsp;Congress to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, which if signed into law could have consequences on bilateral trade with India.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-the-union-address-barack-obama-versus-donald-trump-31291">State of the Union address, Barack Obama versus Donald Trump</a>

The Reciprocal Trade Act would give Trump an authority to levy tariffs equal to those of a foreign country on a particular product if that country's tariffs are determined to be significantly lower than those charged by the United States.

It would also allow him to take into account non-tariff barriers when determining such tariffs.&nbsp;

The State of the Union Address is an annual message presented by President of United States to a joint session of the United States Congress which starts after the president completes one year of his term and as it is broadcast live across the country, it is a platform for President to directly communicate to the people of America.

The president address held in the house of representative before a joint session of the United States Congress. Today the address will take place at 7:30 am&nbsp;(GMT-5).

In January, Trump in interaction with lawmakers at the White House had said the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cut-on-motorcycle-tariffs-by-india-fair-deal-trump-192625">Reciprocal Trade Act</a> would give the US workers a fair and level playing field against other countries.

He has also alleged that the US had been taken advantage of by many countries all over the world.

"They charge us tariffs and taxes, the likes of which nobody has any understanding. They're so high and so unfair! They also have barriers where we can't go in. They have trade barriers that make it impossible for us to sell our farm products and our other products.

&nbsp;

The United States President Donald Trump will give his annual State of the Union speech on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency. According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress.

The United States President Donald Trump will give his annual State of the Union speech on Tuesday as he will begin the second half of his presidency. According to the excerpt released by White House, Trump's speech will cover various topics including immigration, national security, and trade and call for unity in a divided Congress. In the address, Trump will also call on Congress to pass the United States Reciprocal Trade Act, which if signed into law could have consequences on bilateral trade with India. Also read: State of the Union address, Barack Obama versus Donald Trump The Reciprocal Trade Act would give Trump an authority to levy tariffs equal to those of a foreign country on a particular product if that country's tariffs are determined to be significantly lower than those charged by the United States. It would also allow him to take into account non-tariff barriers when determining such tariffs. The State of the Union Address is an annual message presented by President of United States to a joint session of the United States Congress which starts after the president completes one year of his term and as it is broadcast live across the country, it is a platform for President to directly communicate to the people of America. The president address held in the house of representative before a joint session of the United States Congress. Today the address will take place at 7:30 am (GMT-5). In January, Trump in interaction with lawmakers at the White House had said the Reciprocal Trade Act would give the US workers a fair and level playing field against other countries. He has also alleged that the US had been taken advantage of by many countries all over the world. "They charge us tariffs and taxes, the likes of which nobody has any understanding. They're so high and so unfair! They also have barriers where we can't go in. They have trade barriers that make it impossible for us to sell our farm products and our other products.

Eye on India: In State of the Union address, Trump to speak on Reciprocal Trade Act

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has signed off on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-in-talks-to-return-to-india-voluntarily-154272">the order to extradite Vijay Mallya to India</a>.&nbsp;

A UK Home Office spokesperson confirmed to WION that "on 3 February, the Secretary of State, having carefully considered all relevant matters, signed the order for Vijay Mallya’s extradition to India."

Mallya is accused in India of fraud, money laundering and violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).&nbsp;

Mallya's extradition to India had been ordered by the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on December 10, 2018, after which the home&nbsp;secretary had two months to review and formally approve the extradition.

That deadline would have expired on February 10.&nbsp;

Mallya now has 14 days to appeal the Westminster Magistrates’ Court's verdict. On Monday, he said he would.&nbsp;

"After the decision was handed down on December 10, 2018 by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process," Mallya tweeted.&nbsp;

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After the decision was handed down on December 10,2018 by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1092478190940024832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallyas-extradition-case-and-its-origin-a-timeline-195150">A timeline of the Vijay Mallya extradition case</a>

Taking note of the UK government's decision, government sources told WION: "While we welcome the UK government's decision in the matter, we await the early completion of the legal process for his extradition."

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley meanwhile tweeted, "Modi Government clears one more step to get Mallya extradited while Opposition rallies around the Saradha Scamsters."

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Modi Government clears one more step to get Mallya extradited while Opposition rallies around the Saradha Scamsters.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1092454815073034242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Modi government has made the return of fugitive businessmen an election plank and over the last four years, 16 fugitives have been extradited to India.

In 2018, New Delhi brought back five fugitives. Of the five, three were Indian, one was Romanian, and one the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-vvip-chopper-scam-dubai-government-extradites-christian-michel-to-india-181488">British-born Christian James Michel</a>.

India has also been pressing the United Kingdom to extradite Nirav Modi.&nbsp;

India sent two extradition request to London in August 2018 — one from the CBI and the other from Enforcement Directorate. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the "requests are presently under the consideration of the concerned UK authorities."

Mallya had said last week that his group's assets — "worth over 13,000 crores" — had been attached by the consortium of banks to which he owes the money.&nbsp;

Mallya said that that was far over the Rs 9,000 crore he owes to the banks. "Where is Justice or fair play?" he tweeted.&nbsp;

Mallya added that the "banks have given an open licence to their lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me."&nbsp;

"Who is accountable for spending public money on legal fees in such a brazen manner?" he then went on to ask.&nbsp;

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The DRT Recovery Officer recently attaches my Group assets worth over 13,000 crores in India on behalf of the Consortium of Banks. Yet the narrative is that I ran away with the claimed amount of 9000 crores causing loss to the Public Sector Banks. Where is Justice or fair play ?
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1091187395259781121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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And despite all the attachments in India, Banks have given an open licence to their Lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me. Who is accountable for spending Public money on Legal fees in such a brazen manner ?
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1091191112507756550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mallya had borrowed the Rs 9,000 crore for his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. He is accused of having siphoned&nbsp;off (part of) the money for personal and other uses.&nbsp;

The consortium of banks trying to recover their money from Mallya is led by the State Bank of India.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has signed off on the order to extradite Vijay Mallya to India. A UK Home Office spokesperson confirmed to WION that "on 3 February, the Secretary of State, having carefully considered all relevant matters, signed the order for Vijay Mallya’s extradition to India.

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has signed off on the order to extradite Vijay Mallya to India. A UK Home Office spokesperson confirmed to WION that "on 3 February, the Secretary of State, having carefully considered all relevant matters, signed the order for Vijay Mallya’s extradition to India." Mallya is accused in India of fraud, money laundering and violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Mallya's extradition to India had been ordered by the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on December 10, 2018, after which the home secretary had two months to review and formally approve the extradition. That deadline would have expired on February 10. Mallya now has 14 days to appeal the Westminster Magistrates’ Court's verdict. On Monday, he said he would. "After the decision was handed down on December 10, 2018 by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process," Mallya tweeted. After the decision was handed down on December 10,2018 by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 4, 2019 × Also read: A timeline of the Vijay Mallya extradition case Taking note of the UK government's decision, government sources told WION: "While we welcome the UK government's decision in the matter, we await the early completion of the legal process for his extradition." Finance Minister Arun Jaitley meanwhile tweeted, "Modi Government clears one more step to get Mallya extradited while Opposition rallies around the Saradha Scamsters." Modi Government clears one more step to get Mallya extradited while Opposition rallies around the Saradha Scamsters. — Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) February 4, 2019 × The Modi government has made the return of fugitive businessmen an election plank and over the last four years, 16 fugitives have been extradited to India. In 2018, New Delhi brought back five fugitives. Of the five, three were Indian, one was Romanian, and one the British-born Christian James Michel. India has also been pressing the United Kingdom to extradite Nirav Modi. India sent two extradition request to London in August 2018 — one from the CBI and the other from Enforcement Directorate. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the "requests are presently under the consideration of the concerned UK authorities." Mallya had said last week that his group's assets — "worth over 13,000 crores" — had been attached by the consortium of banks to which he owes the money. Mallya said that that was far over the Rs 9,000 crore he owes to the banks. "Where is Justice or fair play?" he tweeted. Mallya added that the "banks have given an open licence to their lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me." "Who is accountable for spending public money on legal fees in such a brazen manner?" he then went on to ask. The DRT Recovery Officer recently attaches my Group assets worth over 13,000 crores in India on behalf of the Consortium of Banks. Yet the narrative is that I ran away with the claimed amount of 9000 crores causing loss to the Public Sector Banks. Where is Justice or fair play ? — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 1, 2019 × And despite all the attachments in India, Banks have given an open licence to their Lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me. Who is accountable for spending Public money on Legal fees in such a brazen manner ? — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 1, 2019 × Mallya had borrowed the Rs 9,000 crore for his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. He is accused of having siphoned off (part of) the money for personal and other uses. The consortium of banks trying to recover their money from Mallya is led by the State Bank of India.

UK government approves Vijay Mallya's extradition to India, he says he will appeal

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has formally approved Vijay Mallya's extradition to India. The fugitive billionaire businessman's extradition had been ordered on December 10, 2018 by the Westminster Magistrates' Court.&nbsp;

Mallya is wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges amounting to an estimated Rs 9,000 crore.

Mallya had only last week complained that&nbsp;his group's assets — "worth over 13,000 crores" — had been attached by the consortium of banks to which he owes the money.&nbsp;Mallya said that that was far over the Rs 9,000 crore he owes to the banks.

"Where is justice or fair play?" he tweeted.&nbsp;

Mallya added that the "banks have given an open licence to their lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me."&nbsp;

"Who is accountable for spending public money on legal fees in such a brazen manner?" he then went on to ask.

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The DRT Recovery Officer recently attaches my Group assets worth over 13,000 crores in India on behalf of the Consortium of Banks. Yet the narrative is that I ran away with the claimed amount of 9000 crores causing loss to the Public Sector Banks. Where is Justice or fair play ?
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1091187395259781121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Every morning I wake up to yet another attachment by the DRT recovery officer. Value already crossed 13,000 crores. Banks claim dues including all interest of 9,000 crores which is subject to review. How far will this go and well beyond ? Justified ??
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1091188402400178176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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And despite all the attachments in India, Banks have given an open licence to their Lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me. Who is accountable for spending Public money on Legal fees in such a brazen manner ?
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1091191112507756550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Here is an account of Mallya's assets in England and Wales, and how much they are worth: 
&nbsp; 
Mallya's Hertfordshire estate, Ladywalk and Bramble Lodge,&nbsp;is worth an estimated 15 million pounds.

Mallya's London pad, 18/19 Cornwall Terrace — a lavish townhouse — is worth of tens of millions of pounds.

Mallya's assets in England also include&nbsp;a fleet of cars which he reportedly spends Rs 24 lakh a month maintaining, and a 164-foot super yacht, Force India.

According to reports, Mallya's total assets in England and Wales add up to about Rs 10,499 crore. There is however still some uncertainty over what all exactly the fugitive billionaire actually owns there.

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has formally approved Vijay Mallya's extradition to India. The fugitive billionaire businessman's extradition had been ordered on December 10, 2018 by the Westminster Magistrates' Court.

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid has formally approved Vijay Mallya's extradition to India. The fugitive billionaire businessman's extradition had been ordered on December 10, 2018 by the Westminster Magistrates' Court. Mallya is wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges amounting to an estimated Rs 9,000 crore. Mallya had only last week complained that his group's assets — "worth over 13,000 crores" — had been attached by the consortium of banks to which he owes the money. Mallya said that that was far over the Rs 9,000 crore he owes to the banks. "Where is justice or fair play?" he tweeted. Mallya added that the "banks have given an open licence to their lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me." "Who is accountable for spending public money on legal fees in such a brazen manner?" he then went on to ask. The DRT Recovery Officer recently attaches my Group assets worth over 13,000 crores in India on behalf of the Consortium of Banks. Yet the narrative is that I ran away with the claimed amount of 9000 crores causing loss to the Public Sector Banks. Where is Justice or fair play ? — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 1, 2019 × Every morning I wake up to yet another attachment by the DRT recovery officer. Value already crossed 13,000 crores. Banks claim dues including all interest of 9,000 crores which is subject to review. How far will this go and well beyond ? Justified ?? — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 1, 2019 × And despite all the attachments in India, Banks have given an open licence to their Lawyers in England to pursue multiple frivolous litigations against me. Who is accountable for spending Public money on Legal fees in such a brazen manner ? — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) February 1, 2019 × Here is an account of Mallya's assets in England and Wales, and how much they are worth: Mallya's Hertfordshire estate, Ladywalk and Bramble Lodge, is worth an estimated 15 million pounds. Mallya's London pad, 18/19 Cornwall Terrace — a lavish townhouse — is worth of tens of millions of pounds. Mallya's assets in England also include a fleet of cars which he reportedly spends Rs 24 lakh a month maintaining, and a 164-foot super yacht, Force India. According to reports, Mallya's total assets in England and Wales add up to about Rs 10,499 crore. There is however still some uncertainty over what all exactly the fugitive billionaire actually owns there.

Mallya extradition case: The fugitive billionaire's UK properties, and how much they're worth

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Yogi Adityanath</a> will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday.

Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defrauded-chit-fund-investors-say-betrayed-by-west-bengals-move-to-stop-cbi-195181">West Bengal government</a> to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister is scheduled to fly to Jharkhand on Tuesday and from there he will travel to Purlia by road.

After being denied permission to land his chopper on Sunday, Adityanath addressed the "Gantantra Bachao" (Save Democracy) rally in South Dinjapur through a telephone call.

&nbsp;In his address that was broadcast using an audio link, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Sunday slammed Mamata Banerjee and said her Trinamool Congress government in the state "can suppress people but cannot suppress their voices."

"Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Yogi Adityanath said.

The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama.

&nbsp;A team of five CBI officers, who went to arrest Rajeev Kumar at his residence in connection with Saradha chit fund scam, were not allowed to enter the police commissioner's house. The CBI officers were detained by police in Kolkata and were later released.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to Rajeev Kumar and started a sit-in protest, in what her Trinamool Congress party called a "coup" by the Modi government.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday. Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday. Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister is scheduled to fly to Jharkhand on Tuesday and from there he will travel to Purlia by road. After being denied permission to land his chopper on Sunday, Adityanath addressed the "Gantantra Bachao" (Save Democracy) rally in South Dinjapur through a telephone call. In his address that was broadcast using an audio link, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Sunday slammed Mamata Banerjee and said her Trinamool Congress government in the state "can suppress people but cannot suppress their voices." "Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Yogi Adityanath said. The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama. A team of five CBI officers, who went to arrest Rajeev Kumar at his residence in connection with Saradha chit fund scam, were not allowed to enter the police commissioner's house. The CBI officers were detained by police in Kolkata and were later released. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to Rajeev Kumar and started a sit-in protest, in what her Trinamool Congress party called a "coup" by the Modi government.

Denied permission earlier, Yogi Adityanath to address rally in West Bengal amid Mamata-CBI face-off

In a setback to Mamata Banerjee government, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-cbi-standoff-will-come-down-heavily-on-kolkata-police-if-it-thinks-of-destroying-evidence-says-cji-ranjan-gogoi-to-solicitor-general-tushar-mehta-194966">Kolkata Police Commissioner</a> Rajeev Kumar will have to appear before Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for investigation. In a notice to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124">West Bengal government </a>and the state's DGP, the court, however, said that Kumar should not be arrested and no coercive action should be taken against him.

"We will direct the Police Commissioner to make himself available and fully cooperate. We will deal with contempt petition later," observed CJI Ranjan Gogoi.

The court asked Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in Meghalaya. The next day of hearing is February 20.

"CJI bench ordered that Rajeev Kumar would make himself available in the light of prayer of the application of CBI to join the investigation, make himself available &amp; cooperate fully. The SC pointed out that no coercive steps would be taken," said Nalin Kohli, senior lawyer and BJP leader.

Mamata Banerjee welcomed the Supreme Court verdict, calling it a "moral victory". "We welcome the Supreme Court verdict. Our case is very strong, we always wanted to cooperate. Centre has its own jurisdiction, states have theirs. Law and order matters lie with states," Banerjee said.

In the affidavit submitted to the court, the CBI said the entire SIT headed by Rajeev Kumar, is under investigation, was "conniving" with the accused/potential accused persons and was "actively subverting the investigation process".

"Inaction, selective action, police and chit fund nexus and the functioning of SIT was in fact used to shield the selective companies such as Shardha, Rose Valley and Tower which have given contributions(even by way of cheques) to the "party in the state of West Bengal," the affidavit said.

Kumar, accused of destroying evidence related to the Saradha chit fund scam, had filed a petition in Kolkata High Court on Monday seeking interim relief from arrest.

The ongoing stand-off between the CBI and the West Bengal government has its roots in two alleged ponzi scams associated with the Saradha Group and the Rose Valley Group, which got busted in 2013.

Earlier on Monday, the Supreme Court had declined the plea of the Solicitor General to hear the two applications in the post-lunch session.&nbsp;

"We have gone through your application, there's nothing in it," the CJI said posting the matter for hearing on Tuesday.

At the same time, the bench said it is open for the Solicitor General or any other party to lay before the court any material or evidence to show that any West Bengal authority or police official is planning or trying to destroy evidence related to the case.

"If Kolkata Police Commissioner even remotely thinks of destroying evidence, bring the material before this court. We will come down so heavily on him that he will regret," the bench said.

The top court said all material or evidence has to be placed before it by means of an affidavit.

An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday, with the feisty West Bengal leader beginning the sit-in protest over CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund scams.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a setback to Mamata Banerjee government, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar will have to appear before Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for investigation.

In a setback to Mamata Banerjee government, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar will have to appear before Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for investigation. In a notice to West Bengal government and the state's DGP, the court, however, said that Kumar should not be arrested and no coercive action should be taken against him. "We will direct the Police Commissioner to make himself available and fully cooperate. We will deal with contempt petition later," observed CJI Ranjan Gogoi. The court asked Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in Meghalaya. The next day of hearing is February 20. "CJI bench ordered that Rajeev Kumar would make himself available in the light of prayer of the application of CBI to join the investigation, make himself available & cooperate fully. The SC pointed out that no coercive steps would be taken," said Nalin Kohli, senior lawyer and BJP leader. Mamata Banerjee welcomed the Supreme Court verdict, calling it a "moral victory". "We welcome the Supreme Court verdict. Our case is very strong, we always wanted to cooperate. Centre has its own jurisdiction, states have theirs. Law and order matters lie with states," Banerjee said. In the affidavit submitted to the court, the CBI said the entire SIT headed by Rajeev Kumar, is under investigation, was "conniving" with the accused/potential accused persons and was "actively subverting the investigation process". "Inaction, selective action, police and chit fund nexus and the functioning of SIT was in fact used to shield the selective companies such as Shardha, Rose Valley and Tower which have given contributions(even by way of cheques) to the "party in the state of West Bengal," the affidavit said. Kumar, accused of destroying evidence related to the Saradha chit fund scam, had filed a petition in Kolkata High Court on Monday seeking interim relief from arrest. The ongoing stand-off between the CBI and the West Bengal government has its roots in two alleged ponzi scams associated with the Saradha Group and the Rose Valley Group, which got busted in 2013. Earlier on Monday, the Supreme Court had declined the plea of the Solicitor General to hear the two applications in the post-lunch session. "We have gone through your application, there's nothing in it," the CJI said posting the matter for hearing on Tuesday. At the same time, the bench said it is open for the Solicitor General or any other party to lay before the court any material or evidence to show that any West Bengal authority or police official is planning or trying to destroy evidence related to the case. "If Kolkata Police Commissioner even remotely thinks of destroying evidence, bring the material before this court. We will come down so heavily on him that he will regret," the bench said. The top court said all material or evidence has to be placed before it by means of an affidavit. An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday, with the feisty West Bengal leader beginning the sit-in protest over CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund scams. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI-Mamata standoff: Supreme Court asks Kolkata Police Commissioner to join probe, says he can't be arrested

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited <a href="https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj">https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092830351741911040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The earthquake struck 118 km north-west of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said on its website.

Tremors were felt in various parts of the valley. No loss of life or property has been reported so far, more details are awaited.&nbsp;

Former J&amp;K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tweeted out, "Srinagar rocks!"

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported. An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited https://t.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 struck Kashmir on Tuesday night around 10pm, news agency ANI reported. An earthquake of magnitude 5.6 on the Richter scale strikes Kashmir, more details awaited https://t.co/Ud4KP2j2aj — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × The earthquake struck 118 km north-west of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said on its website. Tremors were felt in various parts of the valley. No loss of life or property has been reported so far, more details are awaited. Former J&K chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tweeted out, "Srinagar rocks!"

J&K: 5.6-magnitude earthquake hits Kashmir, tremors felt in Srinagar

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/know-all-about-saradha-rose-valley-scams-and-kolkata-police-chief-rajeev-kumars-connection-195288">Saradha scam</a> led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal.

The submission was made by Attorney General K K Venugopal before a bench, comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjeev Khanna, which was hearing the CBI plea seeking direction against the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-turns-street-fighter-for-cop-she-once-refused-to-trust-195343">Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar</a> who has avoided to join the investigation.

Venugopal narrated the legal proceedings since 2014 and said all cases relating to the Chit Fund scam in West Bengal were transferred to the CBI.

"Before that, the state had itself has appointed a SIT. Between April 2014 and when the judgement was pronounced in 2017, we have collected material and proceeded to make arrests. Some of them were People found close to or connected to the TMC, the ruling party," he told the bench.

He said CBI issued summons to Kumar, who was the functional head of the SIT as the material handed to the agency was not complete.

"So we sent summons and then three notices. When he failed to respond, we wrote to the DGP who is the head of the SIT", the top law officer submitted.

Making a submission on the alleged destruction of evidence and other apprehensions, the attorney general said: "We had serious doubts as to the documentation handed over to us."

He referred to the case of Sudipto Sen, who owned the entire chit fund, saying he was arrested in a place in Jammu and Kashmir.

A laptop and four-five mobile phones that contained data were recovered from him but without retaining any part of the data or sending it to the Forensic Science Laboratory to identify and transplant it, the phone was handed back to him, Venugopal said.

"This was a very serious thing. The call data records were shared with us but were not complete. We found discrepancies in the number of calls, which were drastically less.

The details of from whom to whom the calls were made were also deleted. There were four other incidents. We could only take over the FIRs already registered like, in Rose Valley, where the highest revenue was raised and the most cheating had taken place to the tune of 15,000 crores," the attorney general said.

The Saradha and Rose Valley scams had hogged the limelight in West Bengal and other eastern states in 2013.

Since the scam involved investigation into other states, the apex court had transferred the probe to the CBI.&nbsp;

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the Saradha scam led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal.

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the Saradha scam led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal. The submission was made by Attorney General K K Venugopal before a bench, comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjeev Khanna, which was hearing the CBI plea seeking direction against the Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar who has avoided to join the investigation. Venugopal narrated the legal proceedings since 2014 and said all cases relating to the Chit Fund scam in West Bengal were transferred to the CBI. "Before that, the state had itself has appointed a SIT. Between April 2014 and when the judgement was pronounced in 2017, we have collected material and proceeded to make arrests. Some of them were People found close to or connected to the TMC, the ruling party," he told the bench. He said CBI issued summons to Kumar, who was the functional head of the SIT as the material handed to the agency was not complete. "So we sent summons and then three notices. When he failed to respond, we wrote to the DGP who is the head of the SIT", the top law officer submitted. Making a submission on the alleged destruction of evidence and other apprehensions, the attorney general said: "We had serious doubts as to the documentation handed over to us." He referred to the case of Sudipto Sen, who owned the entire chit fund, saying he was arrested in a place in Jammu and Kashmir. A laptop and four-five mobile phones that contained data were recovered from him but without retaining any part of the data or sending it to the Forensic Science Laboratory to identify and transplant it, the phone was handed back to him, Venugopal said. "This was a very serious thing. The call data records were shared with us but were not complete. We found discrepancies in the number of calls, which were drastically less. The details of from whom to whom the calls were made were also deleted. There were four other incidents. We could only take over the FIRs already registered like, in Rose Valley, where the highest revenue was raised and the most cheating had taken place to the tune of 15,000 crores," the attorney general said. The Saradha and Rose Valley scams had hogged the limelight in West Bengal and other eastern states in 2013. Since the scam involved investigation into other states, the apex court had transferred the probe to the CBI.

CBI probe into Saradha scam led to people close to TMC, Attorney General tells Supreme Court 

A defiant Vijay Mallya has confirmed his plans to initiate a lengthy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-home-secretary-signs-order-to-extradite-vijay-mallya-to-india-195145">appeal process against the UK government's order to extradite him</a> to face charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to nearly Rs 9,000 crores in India.

The 63-year-old embattled liquor baron's extradition was approved by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid on Sunday, boosting India's efforts to bring back the fugitive businessman.

Mallya has two weeks to lodge permission to appeal in the High Court after Javid signed off on his extradition order. Hours later, Mallya took to social media to confirm his plans to appeal against the decision.

"After the decision was handed down on December 10, 2018, by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process," Mallya said in a statement on Twitter.

Once the application is made, the court will consider whether there are grounds for the appeal to be admitted and that in turn would trigger another set of hearings over the next few months in the Administrative Court, which is part of the UK High Court.

"It could take months for the case to be heard as the court gets very clogged up and the whole process could take up to five or six months," explained Sarosh Zaiwalla, Founder and Senior Partner of UK-based law firm Zaiwalla &amp; Co.

"The Crown Prosecution Service (arguing on behalf of the Indian government) could apply for an expedited appeal process but it is not common for this to be granted. You would have to show the need of urgency," he said.

Following the outcome at the High Court level, both sides could apply for the right to appeal to the Supreme Court, which would involve at least another six weeks.

However, that process is more complex as the UK High Court must certify that the appeal involves a point of law of general public importance, and either the High Court or the Supreme Court gives leave for the appeal to be made.

Mallya has been based in the UK since March 2016 and remains on bail on an extradition warrant executed by Scotland Yard in April 2017.

In her verdict at the end of a year-long extradition trial in December last year, Judge Emma Arbuthnot ruled that the "flashy" former Kingfisher Airlines boss had a "case to answer" in the Indian courts.

She found there was "clear evidence of dispersal and misapplication of the loan funds" and accepted a prima facie case of fraud and a conspiracy to launder money against Mallya, as presented by the on behalf of the Indian authorities.

The court also dismissed any bars to extradition on the grounds of the prison conditions under which the businessman would be held, as the judge accepted the Indian government's assurances that he would receive all necessary medical care at Barrack 12 in Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail.

"There was no evidence which allowed me to find that if extradited Dr Mallya was at real risk of suffering a flagrant denial of justice," the verdict noted.

India and the UK have an Extradition Treaty signed in 1992 and in force since November 1993. So far only one successful extradition has taken place from the UK to India under the treaty that of Samirbhai Vinubhai Patel, who was sent back to India in 2016 to face trial in connection with his involvement in the post-Godhra riots of 2002.

As India falls under the Category 2 set of countries within the UK's Extradition Act 2003, any decision of the courts must be endorsed by the UK Home Secretary, who has the authority to order extradition. It is not uncommon for a higher court to give leave to appeal and then to overturn the verdict of a lower court.

In a related extradition case of alleged bookie Sanjeev Kumar Chawla wanted in India on match-fixing charges, the High Court had overturned an earlier Westminster Magistrates' Court ruling against his extradition to India due to human rights concerns related to Tihar Jail in Delhi where he was to be detained.

Under the legal process, the case was sent back to the magistrates' level where a District Judge overturned the previous ruling last month and found in favour of the Indian government.

Javid is also due to announce his decision on the extradition order of Chawla, a key accused in the cricket match-fixing scandal involving former South African captain Hansie Cronje in 2000, within the stipulated two-month period, which runs until early March.&nbsp;

A defiant Vijay Mallya has confirmed his plans to initiate a lengthy appeal process against the UK government's order to extradite him to face charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to nearly Rs 9,000 crores in India.

A defiant Vijay Mallya has confirmed his plans to initiate a lengthy appeal process against the UK government's order to extradite him to face charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to nearly Rs 9,000 crores in India. The 63-year-old embattled liquor baron's extradition was approved by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid on Sunday, boosting India's efforts to bring back the fugitive businessman. Mallya has two weeks to lodge permission to appeal in the High Court after Javid signed off on his extradition order. Hours later, Mallya took to social media to confirm his plans to appeal against the decision. "After the decision was handed down on December 10, 2018, by the Westminster Magistrates Court, I stated my intention to appeal. I could not initiate the appeal process before a decision by the Home Secretary. Now I will initiate the appeal process," Mallya said in a statement on Twitter. Once the application is made, the court will consider whether there are grounds for the appeal to be admitted and that in turn would trigger another set of hearings over the next few months in the Administrative Court, which is part of the UK High Court. "It could take months for the case to be heard as the court gets very clogged up and the whole process could take up to five or six months," explained Sarosh Zaiwalla, Founder and Senior Partner of UK-based law firm Zaiwalla & Co. "The Crown Prosecution Service (arguing on behalf of the Indian government) could apply for an expedited appeal process but it is not common for this to be granted. You would have to show the need of urgency," he said. Following the outcome at the High Court level, both sides could apply for the right to appeal to the Supreme Court, which would involve at least another six weeks. However, that process is more complex as the UK High Court must certify that the appeal involves a point of law of general public importance, and either the High Court or the Supreme Court gives leave for the appeal to be made. Mallya has been based in the UK since March 2016 and remains on bail on an extradition warrant executed by Scotland Yard in April 2017. In her verdict at the end of a year-long extradition trial in December last year, Judge Emma Arbuthnot ruled that the "flashy" former Kingfisher Airlines boss had a "case to answer" in the Indian courts. She found there was "clear evidence of dispersal and misapplication of the loan funds" and accepted a prima facie case of fraud and a conspiracy to launder money against Mallya, as presented by the on behalf of the Indian authorities. The court also dismissed any bars to extradition on the grounds of the prison conditions under which the businessman would be held, as the judge accepted the Indian government's assurances that he would receive all necessary medical care at Barrack 12 in Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail. "There was no evidence which allowed me to find that if extradited Dr Mallya was at real risk of suffering a flagrant denial of justice," the verdict noted. India and the UK have an Extradition Treaty signed in 1992 and in force since November 1993. So far only one successful extradition has taken place from the UK to India under the treaty that of Samirbhai Vinubhai Patel, who was sent back to India in 2016 to face trial in connection with his involvement in the post-Godhra riots of 2002. As India falls under the Category 2 set of countries within the UK's Extradition Act 2003, any decision of the courts must be endorsed by the UK Home Secretary, who has the authority to order extradition. It is not uncommon for a higher court to give leave to appeal and then to overturn the verdict of a lower court. In a related extradition case of alleged bookie Sanjeev Kumar Chawla wanted in India on match-fixing charges, the High Court had overturned an earlier Westminster Magistrates' Court ruling against his extradition to India due to human rights concerns related to Tihar Jail in Delhi where he was to be detained. Under the legal process, the case was sent back to the magistrates' level where a District Judge overturned the previous ruling last month and found in favour of the Indian government. Javid is also due to announce his decision on the extradition order of Chawla, a key accused in the cricket match-fixing scandal involving former South African captain Hansie Cronje in 2000, within the stipulated two-month period, which runs until early March.

Mallya prepares for lengthy appeal against UK government's extradition order

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi. &nbsp;

"This dharna (Save the Constitution) is victory for the Constitution and democracy, so, let us end it today," Mamata said Tuesday evening with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu by her side.&nbsp;

"The (Supreme) Court gave a positive judgement today. Next week, we will continue to take up the issue in Delhi," Mamata added.&nbsp;

Naidu and other opposition leaders had had closed-door discussions with Mamata.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata: They (Central govt) want to control all the agencies including the state agencies also? PM you resign from Delhi and go back to Gujarat. One man govt, one party government is there. <a href="https://t.co/RckwAR0uUE">pic.twitter.com/RckwAR0uUE</a>
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Mamata had announced her dharna Sunday night after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345">a CBI team showed up, reportedly unannounced, at Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's home</a>. The CBI accused Kumar of slow-walking the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes.&nbsp;

Mamata said the CBI turning up announced at the Kolkata Police chief's home was a "destruction of the federal structure". She announced her&nbsp;dharna next.&nbsp;

The CBI has taken Kumar to the Supreme Court, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-mamata-standoff-supreme-court-asks-kolkata-police-commissioner-to-join-probe-says-he-cant-be-arrested-195215">accusing him of destroying evidence</a> in the investigations. On Tuesday, the court ordered Kumar to join the CBI investigation. It said Kumar would meet with the CBI in the neutral location of Shillong, Meghalaya.&nbsp;

It also ordered that he could not be arrested.&nbsp;

On Monday, when the CBI made the charge that Kumar was destroying evidence, the court said there was nothing in its submission to prove the claim. It added however that it would come down very heavily on Kumar should the CBI put forward any evidence to prove its claim.&nbsp;

It was the Supreme Court that had handed the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes to the CBI. The SIT (special investigation team) team investigating the alleged scams was being headed by Kumar.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi. "This dharna (Save the Constitution) is victory for the Constitution and democracy, so, let us end it today," Mamata said Tuesday evening with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu by her side. "The (Supreme) Court gave a positive judgement today. Next week, we will continue to take up the issue in Delhi," Mamata added. Naidu and other opposition leaders had had closed-door discussions with Mamata. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata: They (Central govt) want to control all the agencies including the state agencies also? PM you resign from Delhi and go back to Gujarat. One man govt, one party government is there. pic.twitter.com/RckwAR0uUE — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × Mamata had announced her dharna Sunday night after a CBI team showed up, reportedly unannounced, at Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's home. The CBI accused Kumar of slow-walking the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes. Mamata said the CBI turning up announced at the Kolkata Police chief's home was a "destruction of the federal structure". She announced her dharna next. The CBI has taken Kumar to the Supreme Court, accusing him of destroying evidence in the investigations. On Tuesday, the court ordered Kumar to join the CBI investigation. It said Kumar would meet with the CBI in the neutral location of Shillong, Meghalaya. It also ordered that he could not be arrested. On Monday, when the CBI made the charge that Kumar was destroying evidence, the court said there was nothing in its submission to prove the claim. It added however that it would come down very heavily on Kumar should the CBI put forward any evidence to prove its claim. It was the Supreme Court that had handed the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes to the CBI. The SIT (special investigation team) team investigating the alleged scams was being headed by Kumar.

Mamata Banerjee calls off her dharna, says will 'take up issue' next week in Delhi

India has relaxed travel to Iraq with improvement in the security situation in the West Asian country. New Delhi has said that "Indian nationals may now consider travelling to the country" with the exception of five provinces of Iraq - Nineveh (capital Mosul); Salahuddin (capital Tikrit); Diyala (capital Baquba); Anbar (capital Ramadi) and Kirkuk. The relaxation comes into effect immediately.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a release noted, "Indian nationals are advised not to travel" to the five Provinces of Iraq as "these remain affected by terrorism and violence".

MEA also urged Indian nationals, who plan to travel to Iraq for employment, to register on E-Migrate portal of the Government of India and inform the Indian embassy in Baghdad or the Indian Consulate General in Erbil.

When the Islamic State (IS) took over large parts of Iraq in 2014, India evacuated thousands of Indian nationals from the country. 39 Indians were kidnapped by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq that year. They were confirmed dead by India in 2018.

On June 15, 2014, India issued a travel advisory asking its citizens to leave the country and avoid all travel to the country.

Around 10,000-12,000 Indias are in Iraq at present, most of them in the Kurdistan region, Basra, Najaf and Karbala. About 30,000-40,000 Indians visit Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf and Samarrah for pilgrimage every year.

India has relaxed travel to Iraq with improvement in the security situation in the West Asian country. New Delhi has said that "Indian nationals may now consider travelling to the country" with the exception of five provinces of Iraq - Nineveh (capital Mosul); Salahuddin (capital Tikrit); Diyala (capital Baquba); Anbar (capital Ramadi) and Kirkuk.

India has relaxed travel to Iraq with improvement in the security situation in the West Asian country. New Delhi has said that "Indian nationals may now consider travelling to the country" with the exception of five provinces of Iraq - Nineveh (capital Mosul); Salahuddin (capital Tikrit); Diyala (capital Baquba); Anbar (capital Ramadi) and Kirkuk. The relaxation comes into effect immediately. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a release noted, "Indian nationals are advised not to travel" to the five Provinces of Iraq as "these remain affected by terrorism and violence". MEA also urged Indian nationals, who plan to travel to Iraq for employment, to register on E-Migrate portal of the Government of India and inform the Indian embassy in Baghdad or the Indian Consulate General in Erbil. When the Islamic State (IS) took over large parts of Iraq in 2014, India evacuated thousands of Indian nationals from the country. 39 Indians were kidnapped by the Islamic State in Mosul, Iraq that year. They were confirmed dead by India in 2018. On June 15, 2014, India issued a travel advisory asking its citizens to leave the country and avoid all travel to the country. Around 10,000-12,000 Indias are in Iraq at present, most of them in the Kurdistan region, Basra, Najaf and Karbala. About 30,000-40,000 Indians visit Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf and Samarrah for pilgrimage every year.

India relaxes travel to Iraq with exception of five provinces

All 130 foreign students, including 129 Indians who were detained for enrolling in a fake university, were aware that they were committing a crime to fraudulently remain in the US, the State Department has said, days after India issued a demarche to the American Embassy in New Delhi.

The foreign students were arrested last week by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for enrolling at the University of Farmington allegedly to remain in America.

The fake university was set up by the DHS's investigating unit in the Greater Detroit area to bust the "pay-and-stay" racket.

"All participants in this scheme knew that the University of Farmington had no instructors or classes (neither online nor in-person) and were aware they were committing a crime in an attempt to fraudulently remain in the United States," a State Department spokesperson said in a statement on Monday.

The State Department's response came after India issued a demarche to the American Embassy in New Delhi on Saturday, expressing its concern over the detention of Indian students and sought immediate consular access to them.

The External Affairs Ministry said India continued to closely monitor the situation arising out of the mass detention.

Eight of the individuals who ran this racket have been arrested and are either Indian citizens or Indian-Americans.

The fake university which had no classes, a low tuition fee and gave work permits on the very first of the enrolments of the students had some 600 students, an overwhelming majority of whom are Indians.

The actual number of those detained is much higher. Some of the students who were released and many of those who escaped detention have left the country.

An unknown number of Indian students have been radio-tagged and authorities have put restrictions on their movement.

The Indian Embassy in Washington has made an aggressive effort to reach out to these students and, with the help of the community leaders, is providing them with legal help.

Eminent Indian-Americans and some media outlets have also questioned the modus operandi of the US government in the detention of Indians in the "pay-and-stay" university visa scam, saying "trapping of innocent students" is a "crime, illegal and immoral".

In the first reaction, days after the story broke out, the State Department had described it an unfortunate aberration in the proud history of India-US educational exchanges.

"More than a million international students" study at US institutions each year, including approximately 196,000 Indian students last year.&nbsp;

Instances of fraud schemes are rare, unfortunate aberrations in the proud history of educational exchange between the United States and India," the State Department said.

The US government fully supports international education and is committed to facilitating legitimate student travel, it said in an apparent reference to the panic that the latest US move has created and reports coming out from India that students are now considering the option to study in other countries and not the US.

"International students are a valuable asset to our universities and our economy and enrich our communities by sharing their diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences," it said, acknowledging that Indian students not only bring in about $6 billion per annum but also become instrumental in the creation of thousands of jobs in the US.

"It is unfortunate that some student recruiters and individuals seek to use the international student programme to foster illegal immigration status in the United States," the State Department said.

Overseas Friends of BJO USA, in a statement, said that it was shocked to learn that 129 students of Indian-origin were arrested by the ICE, with about 600 students' fate in jeopardy.

"It is very unfortunate that several students are affected by this University and the majority are Telugu students. Most of these students have joined to get their work permits without knowing that this college is not accredited and became victims of this. Their dreams are shattered now," North America Telugu Association said.

The association has advised other students not to fall into the trap and instead work hard and get OPT/CPT from reputed universities as per the normal guidelines.

"If some university is offering a CPT without any course, it is not true at all," it said.

The Indian embassy in the US has also opened a 24/7 hotline to assist 129 Indian students. It has appointed a nodal officer to help the students in distress.

All 130 foreign students, including 129 Indians who were detained for enrolling in a fake university, were aware that they were committing a crime to fraudulently remain in the US, the State Department has said, days after India issued a demarche to the American Embassy in New Delhi.

All 130 foreign students, including 129 Indians who were detained for enrolling in a fake university, were aware that they were committing a crime to fraudulently remain in the US, the State Department has said, days after India issued a demarche to the American Embassy in New Delhi. The foreign students were arrested last week by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for enrolling at the University of Farmington allegedly to remain in America. The fake university was set up by the DHS's investigating unit in the Greater Detroit area to bust the "pay-and-stay" racket. "All participants in this scheme knew that the University of Farmington had no instructors or classes (neither online nor in-person) and were aware they were committing a crime in an attempt to fraudulently remain in the United States," a State Department spokesperson said in a statement on Monday. The State Department's response came after India issued a demarche to the American Embassy in New Delhi on Saturday, expressing its concern over the detention of Indian students and sought immediate consular access to them. The External Affairs Ministry said India continued to closely monitor the situation arising out of the mass detention. Eight of the individuals who ran this racket have been arrested and are either Indian citizens or Indian-Americans. The fake university which had no classes, a low tuition fee and gave work permits on the very first of the enrolments of the students had some 600 students, an overwhelming majority of whom are Indians. The actual number of those detained is much higher. Some of the students who were released and many of those who escaped detention have left the country. An unknown number of Indian students have been radio-tagged and authorities have put restrictions on their movement. The Indian Embassy in Washington has made an aggressive effort to reach out to these students and, with the help of the community leaders, is providing them with legal help. Eminent Indian-Americans and some media outlets have also questioned the modus operandi of the US government in the detention of Indians in the "pay-and-stay" university visa scam, saying "trapping of innocent students" is a "crime, illegal and immoral". In the first reaction, days after the story broke out, the State Department had described it an unfortunate aberration in the proud history of India-US educational exchanges. "More than a million international students" study at US institutions each year, including approximately 196,000 Indian students last year. Instances of fraud schemes are rare, unfortunate aberrations in the proud history of educational exchange between the United States and India," the State Department said. The US government fully supports international education and is committed to facilitating legitimate student travel, it said in an apparent reference to the panic that the latest US move has created and reports coming out from India that students are now considering the option to study in other countries and not the US. "International students are a valuable asset to our universities and our economy and enrich our communities by sharing their diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences," it said, acknowledging that Indian students not only bring in about $6 billion per annum but also become instrumental in the creation of thousands of jobs in the US. "It is unfortunate that some student recruiters and individuals seek to use the international student programme to foster illegal immigration status in the United States," the State Department said. Overseas Friends of BJO USA, in a statement, said that it was shocked to learn that 129 students of Indian-origin were arrested by the ICE, with about 600 students' fate in jeopardy. "It is very unfortunate that several students are affected by this University and the majority are Telugu students. Most of these students have joined to get their work permits without knowing that this college is not accredited and became victims of this. Their dreams are shattered now," North America Telugu Association said. The association has advised other students not to fall into the trap and instead work hard and get OPT/CPT from reputed universities as per the normal guidelines. "If some university is offering a CPT without any course, it is not true at all," it said. The Indian embassy in the US has also opened a 24/7 hotline to assist 129 Indian students. It has appointed a nodal officer to help the students in distress.

Indian students arrested in visa scam were 'aware of their crime': US

Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology has called officials of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) and Twitter to a meeting on February 11 to discuss issues concerning the&nbsp;use of social media.

The meeting of the Committee, headed by BJP leader&nbsp;Anurag Thakur, will examine the issue of ‘Safeguarding citizens’ rights on social/online news media platforms’.

Officials of the MEITY and&nbsp;Twitter have been asked to present their views on it, Thakur said.

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The Parliamentary Commitee on Information Technology will examine the issue: 
 
SAFEGUARDING CITIZENS RIGHTS ON SOCIAL/ONLINE NEWS MEDIA PLATFORMS 
 
MEITY &amp; TWITTER will present their views. 
 
You can tweet/email your views: 
comit@sansad.nic.in <a href="https://t.co/bDYoSv5OHd">pic.twitter.com/bDYoSv5OHd</a>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1092769666907455488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The meeting will give an opportunity to the members of the Committee to ask the officials of the government and Twitter about ways in which misuse of social platforms could be curbed.

The development comes against the backdrop of concerns over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-directs-whatsapp-to-come-out-with-effective-solutions-against-spread-of-fake-news-195319">misuse of social media platforms</a>, including through the use of foul and filthy language. &nbsp;

Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology has called officials of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) and Twitter to a meeting on February 11 to discuss issues concerning the use of social media.

Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology has called officials of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) and Twitter to a meeting on February 11 to discuss issues concerning the use of social media. The meeting of the Committee, headed by BJP leader Anurag Thakur, will examine the issue of ‘Safeguarding citizens’ rights on social/online news media platforms’. Officials of the MEITY and Twitter have been asked to present their views on it, Thakur said. The Parliamentary Commitee on Information Technology will examine the issue: SAFEGUARDING CITIZENS RIGHTS ON SOCIAL/ONLINE NEWS MEDIA PLATFORMS MEITY & TWITTER will present their views. You can tweet/email your views: comit@sansad.nic.in pic.twitter.com/bDYoSv5OHd — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) February 5, 2019 × The meeting will give an opportunity to the members of the Committee to ask the officials of the government and Twitter about ways in which misuse of social platforms could be curbed. The development comes against the backdrop of concerns over misuse of social media platforms, including through the use of foul and filthy language.

Parliamentary Committee calls officials of government, Twitter to discuss citizens' rights on social media

India has taken note of the anti-India events held in the United Kingdom on February 4 and 5 and in which Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had participated.&nbsp;

Top Indian government sources, responding to WION's questions on a "Kashmir conference" held in the UK parliament and in which Qureshi participated, said, "Pakistan seems to be working on 2 Ks — Kashmir and Khalistan and Pakistan FM's London visit was reflective of his personal ambition and linkages with the deep state."

Another government source added that Qureshi's visit did not help "scale up the event" and that the event was largely a "damp squib" with the UK giving it a complete miss.&nbsp;

The "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-qureshi-leaves-for-london-to-attend-conference-on-kashmir-194877">Kashmir conference</a>" was held in the committee room of the UK parliament.&nbsp;

The official however added that there was no official participation of the UK government and not all members of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir (APPG) had attended the meet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The UK has already clarified that Qureshi's visit was a private one.&nbsp;

The Indian official highlighted that "it is very uncommon that the (Pakistani) FM visited and did not have a meet with UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt".&nbsp;

India had strongly taken up the matter with London, and the official told WION: "UK understood our sensitivities."&nbsp;

On an interesting note, the India DGMO (director general of military operations) was contacted by his Pakistani counterpart over the hotline on Tuesday evening, and informed about a rally at the LoC to mark what the Pakistanis call "Kashmir solidarity day".

The Pakistani DGMO informed the Indian side not to be surprised by it, to which the Indian DGMO replied that if any anything happens, "you will be responsible". 
&nbsp;

India has taken note of the anti-India events held in the United Kingdom on February 4 and 5 and in which Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had participated.

India has taken note of the anti-India events held in the United Kingdom on February 4 and 5 and in which Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had participated. Top Indian government sources, responding to WION's questions on a "Kashmir conference" held in the UK parliament and in which Qureshi participated, said, "Pakistan seems to be working on 2 Ks — Kashmir and Khalistan and Pakistan FM's London visit was reflective of his personal ambition and linkages with the deep state." Another government source added that Qureshi's visit did not help "scale up the event" and that the event was largely a "damp squib" with the UK giving it a complete miss. The "Kashmir conference" was held in the committee room of the UK parliament. The official however added that there was no official participation of the UK government and not all members of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir (APPG) had attended the meet. The UK has already clarified that Qureshi's visit was a private one. The Indian official highlighted that "it is very uncommon that the (Pakistani) FM visited and did not have a meet with UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt". India had strongly taken up the matter with London, and the official told WION: "UK understood our sensitivities." On an interesting note, the India DGMO (director general of military operations) was contacted by his Pakistani counterpart over the hotline on Tuesday evening, and informed about a rally at the LoC to mark what the Pakistanis call "Kashmir solidarity day". The Pakistani DGMO informed the Indian side not to be surprised by it, to which the Indian DGMO replied that if any anything happens, "you will be responsible".

Pakistan foreign minister at anti-India events in UK: India says Qureshi visit reflective of 'personal ambition'

India has gained consular access to 117 students, out of a total of 129 individuals, detained by the United States on charges of exploiting the US visa system by taking admission in a fake "university". The fake "university" was set up by the US Department of Homeland Security in Farmington Hills, Michigan to nab 8 people involved in a scam.

Indian embassy and consulate officials visited 36 different detention sites across the US to meet the students. Consular access to the remaining students is expected to be granted soon. The Indian mission has already set up a 24/7 helpline to help the detained Indian students.&nbsp;

India is in touch with US authorities both at the "federal and local level" and has called for a "humane and dignified treatment of the Indian students and custom-sensitive dietary and living arrangement for them during the period of their detention".

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MEA: Consular access to the remaining students, estimated at about a dozen, are continuing, including through the 24/7 helpline set up by the Embassy and outreach to the community. (2/2) <a href="https://t.co/0JXQGLgJmH">https://t.co/0JXQGLgJmH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092784994387251200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a release issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "Government of India continues to attach high priority to the well-being of the detained students and will remain constantly engaged with the US authorities and other stakeholders to address the issue".

The US State Department had said that all the detained students "knew that the University of Farmington had no instructors or classes" and were aware they were "committing a crime in an attempt to fraudulently remain in the United States".

The detained individuals have been placed in removal proceedings by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) which means they will be deported to India.

India has gained consular access to 117 students, out of a total of 129 individuals, detained by the United States on charges of exploiting the US visa system by taking admission in a fake "university".

India has gained consular access to 117 students, out of a total of 129 individuals, detained by the United States on charges of exploiting the US visa system by taking admission in a fake "university". The fake "university" was set up by the US Department of Homeland Security in Farmington Hills, Michigan to nab 8 people involved in a scam. Indian embassy and consulate officials visited 36 different detention sites across the US to meet the students. Consular access to the remaining students is expected to be granted soon. The Indian mission has already set up a 24/7 helpline to help the detained Indian students. India is in touch with US authorities both at the "federal and local level" and has called for a "humane and dignified treatment of the Indian students and custom-sensitive dietary and living arrangement for them during the period of their detention". MEA: Consular access to the remaining students, estimated at about a dozen, are continuing, including through the 24/7 helpline set up by the Embassy and outreach to the community. (2/2) https://t.co/0JXQGLgJmH — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × In a release issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "Government of India continues to attach high priority to the well-being of the detained students and will remain constantly engaged with the US authorities and other stakeholders to address the issue". The US State Department had said that all the detained students "knew that the University of Farmington had no instructors or classes" and were aware they were "committing a crime in an attempt to fraudulently remain in the United States". The detained individuals have been placed in removal proceedings by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) which means they will be deported to India.

India calls for dignified treatment of students detained in US, gets consular access to 117

More than 60 per cent of sewage generated by urban India is untreated and enters water bodies like rivers, resulting in pollution and making it unfit for human consumption, the National Green Tribunal has said.

The green panel said it is a matter of serious concern that compliance of environment norms is not satisfactory and results in large scale deaths and diseases and serious damage to air, water and earth.

The observations were made by the tribunal on Monday while hearing a plea filed by V Manickam, alleging pollution of Thirumanimuthar river in Tamil Nadu due to discharge of effluents by the industries and release of municipal sewage.

The tribunal directed Salem Municipal Corporation to deposit interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh with the Central Pollution Control Board within a month for the damage already caused to the environment.

"The Salem Municipal Corporation may also furnish a performance guarantee to the satisfaction of CPCB in the sum of Rs 50 lakh to the effect that the untreated effluents will not be discharged and necessary steps to prevent such discharge will be taken positively within three months failing which the amount of performance guarantee will be forfeited," the tribunal said.

To ascertain its present status, the tribunal also directed joint inspection by a team comprising of representatives of CPCB and the state pollution control board and submit a report within a month.

"Responsibility for compliance of this order will be of the Commissioner of Salem Municipal Corporation. In case of non-deposit, the Commissioner of Salem Municipal Corporation must remain present in person on the next date, the tribunal said while posting the matter for hearing on April 10," the tribunal said.

The NGT said in spite of statutory framework and binding legal precedents, violation of law is rampant and therefore stern approach is necessary against polluters for pollution as well as the regulatory authorities for their failure and inaction to perform timely duties.&nbsp;

"Environment degradation severely affects human health requiring immediate attention and cannot be dealt with by authorities at leisure.&nbsp; 
Statutory authorities are trustees of the people and if their failure results in harm to the citizens and environment, the tribunal has to adopt a strict approach to make them accountable so that such action acts as deterrent to prevent further harm," the bench, also comprising Justices S P Wangdi and K Ramakrishnan, said.&nbsp;

More than 60 per cent of sewage generated by urban India is untreated and enters water bodies like rivers, resulting in pollution and making it unfit for human consumption, the National Green Tribunal has said.

More than 60 per cent of sewage generated by urban India is untreated and enters water bodies like rivers, resulting in pollution and making it unfit for human consumption, the National Green Tribunal has said. The green panel said it is a matter of serious concern that compliance of environment norms is not satisfactory and results in large scale deaths and diseases and serious damage to air, water and earth. The observations were made by the tribunal on Monday while hearing a plea filed by V Manickam, alleging pollution of Thirumanimuthar river in Tamil Nadu due to discharge of effluents by the industries and release of municipal sewage. The tribunal directed Salem Municipal Corporation to deposit interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh with the Central Pollution Control Board within a month for the damage already caused to the environment. "The Salem Municipal Corporation may also furnish a performance guarantee to the satisfaction of CPCB in the sum of Rs 50 lakh to the effect that the untreated effluents will not be discharged and necessary steps to prevent such discharge will be taken positively within three months failing which the amount of performance guarantee will be forfeited," the tribunal said. To ascertain its present status, the tribunal also directed joint inspection by a team comprising of representatives of CPCB and the state pollution control board and submit a report within a month. "Responsibility for compliance of this order will be of the Commissioner of Salem Municipal Corporation. In case of non-deposit, the Commissioner of Salem Municipal Corporation must remain present in person on the next date, the tribunal said while posting the matter for hearing on April 10," the tribunal said. The NGT said in spite of statutory framework and binding legal precedents, violation of law is rampant and therefore stern approach is necessary against polluters for pollution as well as the regulatory authorities for their failure and inaction to perform timely duties. "Environment degradation severely affects human health requiring immediate attention and cannot be dealt with by authorities at leisure. Statutory authorities are trustees of the people and if their failure results in harm to the citizens and environment, the tribunal has to adopt a strict approach to make them accountable so that such action acts as deterrent to prevent further harm," the bench, also comprising Justices S P Wangdi and K Ramakrishnan, said.

Over 60% of urban India's sewage enters water bodies untreated: NGT

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/withdrawal-risks-hard-won-gains-national-security-us-senate-resolution-on-trumps-syria-pull-out-195191">'Withdrawal risks hard-won gains &amp; national security': US Senate resolution on Trump's Syria pull out</a>

The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment critical of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defrauded-chit-fund-investors-say-betrayed-by-west-bengals-move-to-stop-cbi-195181">Defrauded chit fund investors say 'betrayed' by West Bengal's move to stop CBI</a>

The defrauded investors and agents of various chit fund companies on Monday said they feel "betrayed" by the West Bengal government's move to stop CBI officers from interrogating the Kolkata Police commissioner and accused the Trinamool Congress dispensation of trying to hide the truth behind the multi-crore scam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-wanzhou-may-fight-extradition-by-claiming-us-political-motive-report-195186">Huawei CFO Wanzhou may fight extradition by claiming US political motive: Report</a>

Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Canada and faces possible extradition to the United States, is exploring a defence that claims US charges against her are politically motivated, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lima-group-canada-call-for-peaceful-change-without-military-intervention-in-venezuela-government-195182">Lima Group, Canada call for peaceful change without military intervention in Venezuela government</a>

The Lima Group of Latin American countries and Canada called Monday for a peaceful change in government in Venezuela, without military intervention.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-brazil-dam-disaster-rises-to-134-199-still-missing-195188">Death</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-brazil-dam-disaster-rises-to-134-199-still-missing-195188"> toll in Brazil dam disaster rises to 134, 199 still missing</a>

The toll from a dam collapse at a mine in southeast Brazil has risen to 134 deaths after more than a week of searches, with 199 missing, authorities said Monday.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

'Withdrawal risks hard-won gains & national security': US Senate resolution on Trump's Syria pull out The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment critical of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks.

'Withdrawal risks hard-won gains & national security': US Senate resolution on Trump's Syria pull out The US Senate has approved by a large majority an amendment critical of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan, in a sign of the deep discontent caused by the policies within his own Republican ranks. Defrauded chit fund investors say 'betrayed' by West Bengal's move to stop CBI The defrauded investors and agents of various chit fund companies on Monday said they feel "betrayed" by the West Bengal government's move to stop CBI officers from interrogating the Kolkata Police commissioner and accused the Trinamool Congress dispensation of trying to hide the truth behind the multi-crore scam. Huawei CFO Wanzhou may fight extradition by claiming US political motive: Report Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Canada and faces possible extradition to the United States, is exploring a defence that claims US charges against her are politically motivated, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Monday. Lima Group, Canada call for peaceful change without military intervention in Venezuela government The Lima Group of Latin American countries and Canada called Monday for a peaceful change in government in Venezuela, without military intervention. Death toll in Brazil dam disaster rises to 134, 199 still missing The toll from a dam collapse at a mine in southeast Brazil has risen to 134 deaths after more than a week of searches, with 199 missing, authorities said Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Social activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday called off his fast in Ralegan Siddhi, Ahmednagar. Hazare's move came after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that a new Lokpal bill will be prepared and introduced in the next session.

"We have decided that the Lokpal search committee will meet on 13 February and the directions of the Supreme Court will be followed. A joint drafting committee has been set up, it will prepare a new bill and we will introduce it in next session," Fadnavis stated.&nbsp;

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Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis: We have decided that the Lokpal search committee will meet on 13 February and the directions of the Supreme Court will be followed. A joint drafting committee has been set up, it will prepare a new bill and we will introduce it in next session. <a href="https://t.co/6F2g73em7h">pic.twitter.com/6F2g73em7h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092787975161663498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hazare was on a fast since last Wednesday demanding the formation of Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states.

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Maharashtra: Anna Hazare ends his fast in Ralegan Siddhi, Ahmednagar. He was on a fast since the last six days for the formation of Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states. <a href="https://t.co/YBaJGK0Tec">pic.twitter.com/YBaJGK0Tec</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092792770308333568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-return-padma-bhushan-if-government-doesnt-fulfil-promises-hazare-194913">On Sunday, Hazare warned</a> that if the Narendra Modi government did not fulfil its promises, he would return his Padma Bhushan.

"If this government does not fulfil its promises made to the country in the next few days, I will return my Padma Bhushan," he told PTI Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Hazare began his hunger strike last Wednesday at his native Ralegan Siddhi village in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, demanding appointments of Lokpal and Lokayuktas and resolution of farmers' issue.

Hazare's demands include the immediate appointment of anti-corruption ombudsmen Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states, implementation of Swaminathan Commission's recommendations for tackling agrarian distress and electoral reforms, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Social activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday called off his fast in Ralegan Siddhi, Ahmednagar. Hazare's move came after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that a new Lokpal bill will be prepared and introduced in the next session.

Social activist Anna Hazare on Tuesday called off his fast in Ralegan Siddhi, Ahmednagar. Hazare's move came after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that a new Lokpal bill will be prepared and introduced in the next session. "We have decided that the Lokpal search committee will meet on 13 February and the directions of the Supreme Court will be followed. A joint drafting committee has been set up, it will prepare a new bill and we will introduce it in next session," Fadnavis stated. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis: We have decided that the Lokpal search committee will meet on 13 February and the directions of the Supreme Court will be followed. A joint drafting committee has been set up, it will prepare a new bill and we will introduce it in next session. pic.twitter.com/6F2g73em7h — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × Hazare was on a fast since last Wednesday demanding the formation of Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states. Maharashtra: Anna Hazare ends his fast in Ralegan Siddhi, Ahmednagar. He was on a fast since the last six days for the formation of Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in the states. pic.twitter.com/YBaJGK0Tec — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × On Sunday, Hazare warned that if the Narendra Modi government did not fulfil its promises, he would return his Padma Bhushan. "If this government does not fulfil its promises made to the country in the next few days, I will return my Padma Bhushan," he told PTI Sunday evening. Hazare began his hunger strike last Wednesday at his native Ralegan Siddhi village in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, demanding appointments of Lokpal and Lokayuktas and resolution of farmers' issue. Hazare's demands include the immediate appointment of anti-corruption ombudsmen Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states, implementation of Swaminathan Commission's recommendations for tackling agrarian distress and electoral reforms, news agency PTI reported. (With inputs from PTI)

Anna Hazare calls off indefinite hunger strike after Maharashtra CM accepts demand

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded.

He also said the home ministry wants that the National Register of Citizens, a list of Assam's residents, is completed with fairness and for this the state government has been provided with all necessary assistance, including funds.

"Our government is committed to complete the update of NRC within the stipulated time so that no foreigner is included in it and no Indian is left out," he told PTI here.&nbsp;

His comments came hours after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-supreme-courts-slams-centre-says-it-is-hell-bent-on-destroying-process-195312">Supreme Court came down heavily on the government</a>, saying it is not cooperating in the NRC process and seems the entire effort of the MHA is to destroy the exercise.

The court also reiterated that the July 31 deadline for the completion of NRC exercise will not be extended.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday asserted that the government is committed to complete the NRC process in Assam within the stipulated time and will ensure that no foreigner is included or any Indian citizen excluded. He also said the home ministry wants that the National Register of Citizens, a list of Assam's residents, is completed with fairness and for this the state government has been provided with all necessary assistance, including funds. "Our government is committed to complete the update of NRC within the stipulated time so that no foreigner is included in it and no Indian is left out," he told PTI here. His comments came hours after the Supreme Court came down heavily on the government, saying it is not cooperating in the NRC process and seems the entire effort of the MHA is to destroy the exercise. The court also reiterated that the July 31 deadline for the completion of NRC exercise will not be extended.

Centre committed to complete NRC within stipulated time: Rajnath Singh

During her days in opposition, Mamata Banerjee had accused an IPS officer of tapping the phones of political rivals of the ruling Left Front. A decade down the line, she&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-calls-off-her-dharna-says-will-take-up-issue-next-week-in-delhi-195408">staged a dharna to protest the CBI's bid to question him</a>.

Meet Rajeev Kumar, the Kolkata police commissioner, known for his impeccable investigating and electronic surveillance skills, who was once a blue-eyed boy of former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya.

Banerjee had then accused Kumar of snooping on telephonic conversations of opposition leaders, an allegation rejected by the then Left Front government.

An IPS officer of the 1989 batch, 53-year-old Kumar, who holds an engineering degree in computer science from IIT Roorkee, is a native of Uttar Pradesh.

During his impressive career, Kumar has held important positions including those of Joint Commissioner (Special Task Force) and Director General (CID).

It was under&nbsp;his manship that the STF of Kolkata Police became a byword for terror for several top Maoists leaders and notorious criminals.

He was instrumental in the arrest of Chattaradhar Mahato, the much-feared convenor of People's Committee Against Police Atrocities, a frontal organisation of CPI (Maoist), at the height of Lalgarh movement. Kumar's officers disguised as the journalist had arrested Mahato.

The tribals of Lalgarh, backed by Maoists, had begun a movement in the region against alleged police atrocities over a decade-and-half ago.

They had targeted the then chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee's convoy at Salboni in Paschim Medinipur, prompting the government to launch a massive crackdown to flush out the rebels.

Former Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar, in his book 'Dial D for Don', reminisced how Rajeev Kumar, then SSP (CID), did extensive work after the American Center attack in 2001 and the high-profile kidnapping case of Khadim shoe company's CEO Partha Pratim Roy Burman.&nbsp;

The former Delhi police boss was full of praise for Kumar.

Former IPS officers say Kumar always stood by his subordinates.

"He always stood by his men and officers. He is a team leader in the true sense," a former IPS officer said, adding he enjoys "immense respect" among the rank and file of the Kolkata police force.

In 2011, when Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress came to power ending the 34-year Left Front rule, she wanted Kumar to be moved to some insignificant position.

She was, however, dissuaded by senior police officers from taking such a course.

Over the next eight years, a lot of water has flown down the Howrah bridge.

In January 2012, when Bidhannagar Police Commissionarate was formed, Rajeev Kumar was appointed its first commissioner.

When the Saradha chit fund scam was busted in 2013, thousands of collection agents for the company converged at the TMC headquarters and demanded action against its chairman Sudipta Sen.&nbsp;

The first cases against the group were lodged under the jurisdiction of Bidhannagar police commissioner.

Kumar and his team arrested Sen and his partner in crime Debjani Mukherjee from Jammu and Kashmir on April 18, 2013.

The state government formed a special investigation team (SIT) under him to probe the fraud which saw lakhs of depositors getting duped of their hard earned money with the promise of abnormally high returns.

It was during his stint as SIT chief that he grew closer to the ruling dispensation.

His proximity to the establishment also brought with it criticism, as opposition parties accused the SIT of trying to destroy evidence against ruling TMC leaders and stalling the probe.

In November 2013, rebel TMC MP Kunal Ghosh was arrested by the SIT.

A CBI probe into the chit fund scam was ordered by the Supreme Court in May 2014 on a petition by senior Congress leader Abdul Mannan.

Meanwhile, the TMC dispensation elevated him as Additional Director General of CID.

During his tenure as ADG (CID), he outsmarted the CBI and arrested the first accused in the case of rape of a 70-year-old nun.&nbsp;

The nun was raped by a gang of seven dacoits inside a Convent in Nadia district on March 14, 2015.

Amid growing outrage, the state government had decided to hand over the case to the CBI on March 18, 2015.

But before the federal probe agency could lay its hands on the perpetrators, Kumar arrested the first accused on March 26.

He took over as 21st police commissioner of Kolkata on February 2016, the year the state had its last assembly polls.

A month later, two officers of Kolkata police, disguised as cow smugglers, tried to bribe BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha to help them in their trade.

The incident happened just a fortnight after Narada news released sting videos showing Trinamool Congress leaders purportedly accepting money from a fictitious company.

In April that year, the Election Commission decided to replace Kumar with Somen Mitra.

Once back in power, Mamata Banerjee reinstated Kumar.

Last September, a series of audio clips of purported telephone conversations between Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP general secretary in charge of West Bengal, and Mukul Roy, a former confidante of Banerjee and now a frontline leader of the saffron party, started doing the rounds in social media.

The clips included a conversation where Roy purportedly asked Vijayvargiya to talk to BJP president Amit Shah and get CBI to keep a "watch" on four IPS officers serving in the state so as to "scare" them.

Roy had then alleged that their phones were tapped by Kolkata police, which rejected the allegations.

During her days in opposition, Mamata Banerjee had accused an IPS officer of tapping the phones of political rivals of the ruling Left Front. A decade down the line, she staged a dharna to protest the CBI's bid to question him.

During her days in opposition, Mamata Banerjee had accused an IPS officer of tapping the phones of political rivals of the ruling Left Front. A decade down the line, she staged a dharna to protest the CBI's bid to question him. Meet Rajeev Kumar, the Kolkata police commissioner, known for his impeccable investigating and electronic surveillance skills, who was once a blue-eyed boy of former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya. Banerjee had then accused Kumar of snooping on telephonic conversations of opposition leaders, an allegation rejected by the then Left Front government. An IPS officer of the 1989 batch, 53-year-old Kumar, who holds an engineering degree in computer science from IIT Roorkee, is a native of Uttar Pradesh. During his impressive career, Kumar has held important positions including those of Joint Commissioner (Special Task Force) and Director General (CID). It was under his manship that the STF of Kolkata Police became a byword for terror for several top Maoists leaders and notorious criminals. He was instrumental in the arrest of Chattaradhar Mahato, the much-feared convenor of People's Committee Against Police Atrocities, a frontal organisation of CPI (Maoist), at the height of Lalgarh movement. Kumar's officers disguised as the journalist had arrested Mahato. The tribals of Lalgarh, backed by Maoists, had begun a movement in the region against alleged police atrocities over a decade-and-half ago. They had targeted the then chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee's convoy at Salboni in Paschim Medinipur, prompting the government to launch a massive crackdown to flush out the rebels. Former Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar, in his book 'Dial D for Don', reminisced how Rajeev Kumar, then SSP (CID), did extensive work after the American Center attack in 2001 and the high-profile kidnapping case of Khadim shoe company's CEO Partha Pratim Roy Burman. The former Delhi police boss was full of praise for Kumar. Former IPS officers say Kumar always stood by his subordinates. "He always stood by his men and officers. He is a team leader in the true sense," a former IPS officer said, adding he enjoys "immense respect" among the rank and file of the Kolkata police force. In 2011, when Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress came to power ending the 34-year Left Front rule, she wanted Kumar to be moved to some insignificant position. She was, however, dissuaded by senior police officers from taking such a course. Over the next eight years, a lot of water has flown down the Howrah bridge. In January 2012, when Bidhannagar Police Commissionarate was formed, Rajeev Kumar was appointed its first commissioner. When the Saradha chit fund scam was busted in 2013, thousands of collection agents for the company converged at the TMC headquarters and demanded action against its chairman Sudipta Sen. The first cases against the group were lodged under the jurisdiction of Bidhannagar police commissioner. Kumar and his team arrested Sen and his partner in crime Debjani Mukherjee from Jammu and Kashmir on April 18, 2013. The state government formed a special investigation team (SIT) under him to probe the fraud which saw lakhs of depositors getting duped of their hard earned money with the promise of abnormally high returns. It was during his stint as SIT chief that he grew closer to the ruling dispensation. His proximity to the establishment also brought with it criticism, as opposition parties accused the SIT of trying to destroy evidence against ruling TMC leaders and stalling the probe. In November 2013, rebel TMC MP Kunal Ghosh was arrested by the SIT. A CBI probe into the chit fund scam was ordered by the Supreme Court in May 2014 on a petition by senior Congress leader Abdul Mannan. Meanwhile, the TMC dispensation elevated him as Additional Director General of CID. During his tenure as ADG (CID), he outsmarted the CBI and arrested the first accused in the case of rape of a 70-year-old nun. The nun was raped by a gang of seven dacoits inside a Convent in Nadia district on March 14, 2015. Amid growing outrage, the state government had decided to hand over the case to the CBI on March 18, 2015. But before the federal probe agency could lay its hands on the perpetrators, Kumar arrested the first accused on March 26. He took over as 21st police commissioner of Kolkata on February 2016, the year the state had its last assembly polls. A month later, two officers of Kolkata police, disguised as cow smugglers, tried to bribe BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha to help them in their trade. The incident happened just a fortnight after Narada news released sting videos showing Trinamool Congress leaders purportedly accepting money from a fictitious company. In April that year, the Election Commission decided to replace Kumar with Somen Mitra. Once back in power, Mamata Banerjee reinstated Kumar. Last September, a series of audio clips of purported telephone conversations between Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP general secretary in charge of West Bengal, and Mukul Roy, a former confidante of Banerjee and now a frontline leader of the saffron party, started doing the rounds in social media. The clips included a conversation where Roy purportedly asked Vijayvargiya to talk to BJP president Amit Shah and get CBI to keep a "watch" on four IPS officers serving in the state so as to "scare" them. Roy had then alleged that their phones were tapped by Kolkata police, which rejected the allegations.

Rajeev Kumar: Kolkata Police chief who was once close to being moved to insignificant post by Mamata Banerjee

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