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Nepal has asked the RBI to declare newly circulated Indian currency notes of denominations higher than Rs 100 legal tender in the country, according to a media report on Sunday.

The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the country's central monetary authority, has written a letter on Friday to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), asking it to make Indian bank bills Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 legal tender in Nepal, The Himalayan Times reported.

The NRB has asked India's central bank to issue a notification under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), which will make Indian banknotes of denomination more than Rs 100 legal tender in Nepal and to provide the exchange facilities to get bills of such denominations, it said.

The RBI has only allowed the circulation of Indian currency notes of Rs 100 and less in Nepal and provides exchange facilities for bills of this denomination.

Before the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 bank notes in November 2016, the RBI had issued a FEMA notification allowing Nepali citizens to carry Rs 25,000 worth of such bank notes.

After the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 Indian currency notes, circulation of new banknotes of denominations Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 was started by the Indian government.

The RBI did not issue the notification for the newly circulated bank notes, making their use illegal in Nepal.

"As the RBI was not allowing the circulation of the higher denomination Indian notes, we had to ban their use in Nepal to protect our citizens," Chief of Foreign Exchange Management Department at the NRB.

"However, after we received complaints from people in various sectors, especially those who have to visit India frequently, we asked the Indian central bank to make such bank notes legal tender in Nepal."

The circulation of such notes in Nepal, according to Dhungana, will solely depend upon the RBI and Indian government's will.

Also the NRB, in the same letter, has asked the Indian central bank to provide exchange facility to Nepalis holding the banned Indian currency in the country.

The central bank has said the country's banking system, including banks, financial institutions and NRB, hold Indian currency denominations of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 worth Rs 48 million.

But the actual stock of banned Indian bank notes is expected to be much more because Nepalis were previously allowed to carry Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 Indian bank notes worth up to Rs 25,000.

Also, those residing in areas bordering India usually stash Indian notes of larger denominations as they have to go to Indian markets frequently to buy goods.

To make exchange facility available to Nepalis holding banned Indian currency, NRB has already prepared software to keep a database of names of people who sought exchange facility, the serial number of bills of 00 and Rs 1,000 submitted by the people, and their identification numbers, among others. But the Indian government is yet to take a decision, it said.

Nepal has asked the RBI to declare newly circulated Indian currency notes of denominations higher than Rs 100 legal tender in the country, according to a media report on Sunday.

Nepal has asked the RBI to declare newly circulated Indian currency notes of denominations higher than Rs 100 legal tender in the country, according to a media report on Sunday. The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the country's central monetary authority, has written a letter on Friday to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), asking it to make Indian bank bills Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 legal tender in Nepal, The Himalayan Times reported. The NRB has asked India's central bank to issue a notification under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), which will make Indian banknotes of denomination more than Rs 100 legal tender in Nepal and to provide the exchange facilities to get bills of such denominations, it said. The RBI has only allowed the circulation of Indian currency notes of Rs 100 and less in Nepal and provides exchange facilities for bills of this denomination. Before the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 bank notes in November 2016, the RBI had issued a FEMA notification allowing Nepali citizens to carry Rs 25,000 worth of such bank notes. After the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 Indian currency notes, circulation of new banknotes of denominations Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 was started by the Indian government. The RBI did not issue the notification for the newly circulated bank notes, making their use illegal in Nepal. "As the RBI was not allowing the circulation of the higher denomination Indian notes, we had to ban their use in Nepal to protect our citizens," Chief of Foreign Exchange Management Department at the NRB. "However, after we received complaints from people in various sectors, especially those who have to visit India frequently, we asked the Indian central bank to make such bank notes legal tender in Nepal." The circulation of such notes in Nepal, according to Dhungana, will solely depend upon the RBI and Indian government's will. Also the NRB, in the same letter, has asked the Indian central bank to provide exchange facility to Nepalis holding the banned Indian currency in the country. The central bank has said the country's banking system, including banks, financial institutions and NRB, hold Indian currency denominations of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 worth Rs 48 million. But the actual stock of banned Indian bank notes is expected to be much more because Nepalis were previously allowed to carry Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 Indian bank notes worth up to Rs 25,000. Also, those residing in areas bordering India usually stash Indian notes of larger denominations as they have to go to Indian markets frequently to buy goods. To make exchange facility available to Nepalis holding banned Indian currency, NRB has already prepared software to keep a database of names of people who sought exchange facility, the serial number of bills of 00 and Rs 1,000 submitted by the people, and their identification numbers, among others. But the Indian government is yet to take a decision, it said.

Make Rs 200, 500, 2,000 notes legal in our country: Nepal writes to RBI

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/train-18-trial-for-engineless-semi-high-speed-train-from-next-month-162258">railways</a> is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks.

The security plan — with high-end technology — has already been put in motion at Prayagraj, in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela which begins this month and at Hoobly railway station in Karnataka with a blueprint for 202 more stations ready for implementation, Railway Protection Force Director General Arun Kumar said.

"The plan is to seal the railway stations. It is primarily about identifying openings and to determine how many can be closed. There are areas which will be closed through permanent boundary walls, others will be manned by RPF personnel and yet others will have collapsible gates," he said.

"At each entry point, there will be random security checks. However, unlike at airports, passengers need not come hours in advance, but just 15-20 minutes ahead of their departure times to ensure that they are not delayed because of the security process," he said.

Mr Kumar said while security will increase, the presence of security personnel will not. "If we are investing in technology, then workforce requirement will reduce," he said.

These steps are a part of a security plan under the Integrated Security System (ISS) which was approved in 2016 to strengthen surveillance mechanism at 202 railway stations.

The ISS will comprise CCTV cameras, access control, personal and baggage screening system and bomb detection and disposal system which together provide multiple checking of passengers and baggage from the point of entry in the station premises till boarding of the train. The anticipated cost of the ISS project stands at Rs. 385.06 crores.

"The security plan envisages a layered security check where passengers will be scrutinised even before they enter the station premises to ease the pressure at stations during peak hours," Mr Kumar said.

It will also include real-time face recognition software which will alert the RPF command centre of any known offenders.

"Passengers will be checked randomly - every eighth or ninth passenger will undergo the process on his arrival at the station," he said.

The railways is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks.

The railways is planning to seal train stations just like how airports function and passengers will have to arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure of trains to complete the process of security checks. The security plan — with high-end technology — has already been put in motion at Prayagraj, in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela which begins this month and at Hoobly railway station in Karnataka with a blueprint for 202 more stations ready for implementation, Railway Protection Force Director General Arun Kumar said. "The plan is to seal the railway stations. It is primarily about identifying openings and to determine how many can be closed. There are areas which will be closed through permanent boundary walls, others will be manned by RPF personnel and yet others will have collapsible gates," he said. "At each entry point, there will be random security checks. However, unlike at airports, passengers need not come hours in advance, but just 15-20 minutes ahead of their departure times to ensure that they are not delayed because of the security process," he said. Mr Kumar said while security will increase, the presence of security personnel will not. "If we are investing in technology, then workforce requirement will reduce," he said. These steps are a part of a security plan under the Integrated Security System (ISS) which was approved in 2016 to strengthen surveillance mechanism at 202 railway stations. The ISS will comprise CCTV cameras, access control, personal and baggage screening system and bomb detection and disposal system which together provide multiple checking of passengers and baggage from the point of entry in the station premises till boarding of the train. The anticipated cost of the ISS project stands at Rs. 385.06 crores. "The security plan envisages a layered security check where passengers will be scrutinised even before they enter the station premises to ease the pressure at stations during peak hours," Mr Kumar said. It will also include real-time face recognition software which will alert the RPF command centre of any known offenders. "Passengers will be checked randomly - every eighth or ninth passenger will undergo the process on his arrival at the station," he said.

Arrive at least 20 mins before departure: Railways planning to seal train stations like airports

A Spicejet Boeing 737-Max made an emergency landing in Varanasi today after the plane's left engine developed a snag.&nbsp;

The 737-Max, with over 140 passengers on board, was flying from Hong Kong to Delhi.&nbsp;All passengers and crew are safe.&nbsp;

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Varanasi Airport Director: A Boeing 737 Max, Spicejet flight on Hongkong-Delhi route made an emergency landing due to a snag in the left engine at the Varanasi airport at 10am today. All 140+ passengers are safe. More details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/KZfjKoV1xO">pic.twitter.com/KZfjKoV1xO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1081862017701404672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Lion Air jet that crashed in Indonesia in October last year, killing all 189 people on board, had also been a Boeing 737-Max. The plane had crashed in the Java sea some 12 minutes after taking off from Jakarta.&nbsp;

Faulty data from one of the plane's onboard sensors had repeatedly forced the aircraft to tilt its nose down.&nbsp;The Lion Air flight had been commanded by Delhi boy Bhavye Suneja.&nbsp;

Since the crash, Boeing has told WION that the 737-Max is "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-provide-answers-after-investigation-into-lion-air-crash-is-over-boeing-to-wion-185379">as safe as any other plane flying out there</a>".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an Air India Express plane flying from Mumbai to Dubai also made an emergency landing at the Mumbai airport on Sunday due to a hydraulic failure. 
&nbsp;

A Spicejet Boeing 737-Max made an emergency landing in Varanasi today after the plane's left engine developed a snag. The 737-Max, with over 140 passengers on board, was flying from Hong Kong to Delhi.

A Spicejet Boeing 737-Max made an emergency landing in Varanasi today after the plane's left engine developed a snag. The 737-Max, with over 140 passengers on board, was flying from Hong Kong to Delhi. All passengers and crew are safe. Varanasi Airport Director: A Boeing 737 Max, Spicejet flight on Hongkong-Delhi route made an emergency landing due to a snag in the left engine at the Varanasi airport at 10am today. All 140+ passengers are safe. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/KZfjKoV1xO — ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2019 × The Lion Air jet that crashed in Indonesia in October last year, killing all 189 people on board, had also been a Boeing 737-Max. The plane had crashed in the Java sea some 12 minutes after taking off from Jakarta. Faulty data from one of the plane's onboard sensors had repeatedly forced the aircraft to tilt its nose down. The Lion Air flight had been commanded by Delhi boy Bhavye Suneja. Since the crash, Boeing has told WION that the 737-Max is "as safe as any other plane flying out there". Meanwhile, an Air India Express plane flying from Mumbai to Dubai also made an emergency landing at the Mumbai airport on Sunday due to a hydraulic failure.

SpiceJet Boeing 737-Max makes emergency landing in Varanasi

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday.&nbsp;

With just a few days to go for the assembly polls in Sikkim, the vice president of Hamro Sikkim Party, Bhutia will be leading a 20-member delegation of HSP members to Delhi.&nbsp;

A protest will be put up in front of the Jantar Mantar against the SDF on several issues ranging from alleged corruption in the government, demand for tribal status for eleven communities of Sikkim and restoration of Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.&nbsp;

“Corruption is a disease in our society today. The state of Sikkim is suffering from massive corruption. The government has no money but the individuals have become richer than the government. We are going to fight corruption in Sikkim,” said Bhutia.&nbsp;

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It is time to take a stand against corruption! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hamrosikkim?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hamrosikkim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/saynotocorruption?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#saynotocorruption</a> <a href="https://t.co/ICZMu8U2K0">pic.twitter.com/ICZMu8U2K0</a>
— Bhaichung Bhutia (@bhaichung15) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaichung15/status/1081806669405999104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, political analysts feel that Bhutia has sounded the bugle for the upcoming polls in the state and such protests will further help the newly formed regional party gain more momentum.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the Election Commission of India has allotted the ‘whistle’ sign as an election symbol to HSP.&nbsp;

The party had sent three preferences of which, the commission sent their confirmation on the ‘whistle’ symbol on Thursday.&nbsp;

“Whistle personally is very special to me. Usually, a whistle is blown at the beginning and end of any match. We have blown the whistle to win this match and end the rule SDF in Sikkim,” added Bhutia.

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday.

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday. With just a few days to go for the assembly polls in Sikkim, the vice president of Hamro Sikkim Party, Bhutia will be leading a 20-member delegation of HSP members to Delhi. A protest will be put up in front of the Jantar Mantar against the SDF on several issues ranging from alleged corruption in the government, demand for tribal status for eleven communities of Sikkim and restoration of Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. “Corruption is a disease in our society today. The state of Sikkim is suffering from massive corruption. The government has no money but the individuals have become richer than the government. We are going to fight corruption in Sikkim,” said Bhutia. It is time to take a stand against corruption! #hamrosikkim #saynotocorruption pic.twitter.com/ICZMu8U2K0 — Bhaichung Bhutia (@bhaichung15) January 6, 2019 × However, political analysts feel that Bhutia has sounded the bugle for the upcoming polls in the state and such protests will further help the newly formed regional party gain more momentum. On the other hand, the Election Commission of India has allotted the ‘whistle’ sign as an election symbol to HSP. The party had sent three preferences of which, the commission sent their confirmation on the ‘whistle’ symbol on Thursday. “Whistle personally is very special to me. Usually, a whistle is blown at the beginning and end of any match. We have blown the whistle to win this match and end the rule SDF in Sikkim,” added Bhutia.

Bhaichung Bhutia to lead day-long protest at Jantar Mantar against SDF 

Union Minister for Law and Justice and Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that Narendra Modi government has planned to enact a data protection law to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ravi-shankar-prasad-warn-facebooks-mark-zuckerberg-of-strict-actions-36622">protect sensitive personal and professional data</a> of individuals so that it cannot be misused in foreign countries by Google.

"We are planning to bring data protect law to protect personal and professional sensitive data of the individuals of India. So that it cannot be misused in foreign countries by Google. And if someone does it then we can take stringent action against the person," he said.

Addressing the ongoing Indian Science Congress, 2019, Science Communicators` Meet in Jalandhar on Saturday, he said, "India is now the third most attractive investment destination for technology transactions and it is the best time to do science in India."

The Union Minister further said that India`s ranking in global innovation index has jumped from 81st in 2015 to 60th in 2017 and that it is now at the sixth position in scientific publications and 10th in the patent filing.

A souvenir book on Science Communicators` Meet was also released by Prasad during the event.

While applauding the role of innovations in communication technology, the Minister informed that digital payments have surged to eight folds in the last five years to Rs 2,070 crore.&nbsp;

"There have been 2048 per cent growth in Aadhar Enabled Payment System transactions while transactions in UPI grew 1500 times in the last 24 months," he added.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Law and Justice and Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that Narendra Modi government has planned to enact a data protection law to protect sensitive personal and professional data of individuals so that it cannot be misused in foreign countries by Google.

Union Minister for Law and Justice and Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that Narendra Modi government has planned to enact a data protection law to protect sensitive personal and professional data of individuals so that it cannot be misused in foreign countries by Google. "We are planning to bring data protect law to protect personal and professional sensitive data of the individuals of India. So that it cannot be misused in foreign countries by Google. And if someone does it then we can take stringent action against the person," he said. Addressing the ongoing Indian Science Congress, 2019, Science Communicators` Meet in Jalandhar on Saturday, he said, "India is now the third most attractive investment destination for technology transactions and it is the best time to do science in India." The Union Minister further said that India`s ranking in global innovation index has jumped from 81st in 2015 to 60th in 2017 and that it is now at the sixth position in scientific publications and 10th in the patent filing. A souvenir book on Science Communicators` Meet was also released by Prasad during the event. While applauding the role of innovations in communication technology, the Minister informed that digital payments have surged to eight folds in the last five years to Rs 2,070 crore. "There have been 2048 per cent growth in Aadhar Enabled Payment System transactions while transactions in UPI grew 1500 times in the last 24 months," he added.

Government planning law to prevent misuse of data by Google: Law minister

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief.&nbsp;

Gautam noted that incumbent party chief Amit Shah should work harder in the Rajya Sabha and pave way for Chouhan to take over his role. The veteran leader also noted that Home Minister Rajnath Singh should take over as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari should become Deputy Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The leader expressed dissatisfaction with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and added that he should be sent to do religious work. Although he acknowledged the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a political leader, he expressed doubt over the success of another Modi wave in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The 88-year-old leader, who served as a Minister of State in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, opined that the people of the country are not happy with the policies undertaken by the current government. Its interference with institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of India has not been viewed in a positive light by the masses, the former minister added.&nbsp;

Gautam had previously held MoS portfolio for agriculture and rural industries. A Lawyer by profession, he was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990 and in 1998 as a candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party.

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief.

In a letter released to media, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanghpriya Gautam stated that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should be the party chief. Gautam noted that incumbent party chief Amit Shah should work harder in the Rajya Sabha and pave way for Chouhan to take over his role. The veteran leader also noted that Home Minister Rajnath Singh should take over as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari should become Deputy Prime Minister. The leader expressed dissatisfaction with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and added that he should be sent to do religious work. Although he acknowledged the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a political leader, he expressed doubt over the success of another Modi wave in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 88-year-old leader, who served as a Minister of State in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government, opined that the people of the country are not happy with the policies undertaken by the current government. Its interference with institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of India has not been viewed in a positive light by the masses, the former minister added. Gautam had previously held MoS portfolio for agriculture and rural industries. A Lawyer by profession, he was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1990 and in 1998 as a candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party.

BJP veteran drops bombshell, wants Shivraj Singh Chouhan to replace Amit Shah as BJP chief

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala.

Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings.

The foreign and commonwealth office which regularly updates its advice for travel to different parts of the world said that any British citizens planning to travel to Kerala should monitor media reports.

Kerala has been rocked by protests by right-wing groups after two women of "Menstruating age" offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on January 2.&nbsp;

Hundreds of people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence over the last few days. 
&nbsp; 
The Sabarimala temple has been at the centre of a prolonged showdown between traditionalists and authorities since September, 2018.

Supreme Court has overturned a ban on women of menstruating age -- deemed as those aged 10 to 50 -- setting foot inside the temple.

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings.

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings. The foreign and commonwealth office which regularly updates its advice for travel to different parts of the world said that any British citizens planning to travel to Kerala should monitor media reports. Kerala has been rocked by protests by right-wing groups after two women of "Menstruating age" offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on January 2. Hundreds of people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence over the last few days. The Sabarimala temple has been at the centre of a prolonged showdown between traditionalists and authorities since September, 2018. Supreme Court has overturned a ban on women of menstruating age -- deemed as those aged 10 to 50 -- setting foot inside the temple.

Sabarimala row: UK government warns tourists visiting Kerala 

Rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Punjab Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Sunday resigned from the party's primary membership, alleging that the party had "totally deviated" from the ideology and principles on which it was formed post the Anna Hazare movement.

Khaira, who was suspended from the party in November last year for indulging in "anti-party" activities, sent his resignation letter to AAP's national convener Arvind Kejriwal.

The "current political culture of traditional parties of the country stands badly decayed, due to which immense hope was generated by the formation of AAP," the Bolath MLA said in his resignation letter, copies of which have been released to the media.

"..Unfortunately after joining the party I realised that the hierarchy of AAP was no different from the traditional centralised political parties..," Khaira said.

He had been a vocal critic of AAP's leadership since he was removed as leader of opposition in Punjab Assembly in July last year.&nbsp;

Following his removal, Khaira, along with seven supporters, formed a rebel group which sought autonomy for AAP's Punjab unit.

Rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Punjab Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Sunday resigned from the party's primary membership, alleging that the party had "totally deviated" from the ideology and principles on which it was formed post the Anna Hazare movement.

Rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Punjab Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Sunday resigned from the party's primary membership, alleging that the party had "totally deviated" from the ideology and principles on which it was formed post the Anna Hazare movement. Khaira, who was suspended from the party in November last year for indulging in "anti-party" activities, sent his resignation letter to AAP's national convener Arvind Kejriwal. The "current political culture of traditional parties of the country stands badly decayed, due to which immense hope was generated by the formation of AAP," the Bolath MLA said in his resignation letter, copies of which have been released to the media. "..Unfortunately after joining the party I realised that the hierarchy of AAP was no different from the traditional centralised political parties..," Khaira said. He had been a vocal critic of AAP's leadership since he was removed as leader of opposition in Punjab Assembly in July last year. Following his removal, Khaira, along with seven supporters, formed a rebel group which sought autonomy for AAP's Punjab unit.

MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira resigns from AAP's primary membership

The Centre has set up a high-level committee to assess the appropriate level of reservation of seats in the Assam Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people, besides providing other safeguards.

The move came days after the Union Cabinet took a decision in this effect as per the 1985 Assam Accord.

The committee will be headed by headed by former Union tourism secretary M P Bezbaruah.&nbsp;

In a notification, the Home Ministry said the committee will examine the effectiveness of actions taken since 1985 to implement Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.

"The committee will assess the appropriate level of reservation of seats in Assam Legislative Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people.

"The committee will recommend the appropriate level of reservations in employment under the government of Assam for the Assamese people," the notification said.

The notification said the panel will also hold discussions with various stakeholders, including social organisations, legal and constitutional experts, eminent persons from the field of art, culture and literature, conservationists, economists, linguists and sociologists.

It will suggest measures to be taken to protect Assamese and other indigenous languages of Assam.

The committee can also suggest any other measures, as may be necessary, to protect, preserve and promote cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people. It will submit its report within six months from the date of notification (January 5).

The panel will be facilitated by the Noth East Division of the Home Ministry and the state government will provide the necessary administrative and logistic support to the committee.

The clause 6 of the Accord states, "Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people".

Besides, Bezbarauah, a retired IAS officer, the members of the panel are: former IAS officer Subhash Das, Nagen Saikia, former President, Assam Sahitya Sabha, Dhiren Bezbaruah, former editor of The Sentinel, Mukunda Rajbangshi, educationalist, Ramesh Borpatragohain, advocate general of Assam, Rongbong Terang, former president of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, and one representative of the All Assam Students' Union.&nbsp;

The joint secretary in the Home Ministry will be member secretary.&nbsp;

The Centre has set up a high-level committee to assess the appropriate level of reservation of seats in the Assam Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people, besides providing other safeguards.

The Centre has set up a high-level committee to assess the appropriate level of reservation of seats in the Assam Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people, besides providing other safeguards. The move came days after the Union Cabinet took a decision in this effect as per the 1985 Assam Accord. The committee will be headed by headed by former Union tourism secretary M P Bezbaruah. In a notification, the Home Ministry said the committee will examine the effectiveness of actions taken since 1985 to implement Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. "The committee will assess the appropriate level of reservation of seats in Assam Legislative Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people. "The committee will recommend the appropriate level of reservations in employment under the government of Assam for the Assamese people," the notification said. The notification said the panel will also hold discussions with various stakeholders, including social organisations, legal and constitutional experts, eminent persons from the field of art, culture and literature, conservationists, economists, linguists and sociologists. It will suggest measures to be taken to protect Assamese and other indigenous languages of Assam. The committee can also suggest any other measures, as may be necessary, to protect, preserve and promote cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people. It will submit its report within six months from the date of notification (January 5). The panel will be facilitated by the Noth East Division of the Home Ministry and the state government will provide the necessary administrative and logistic support to the committee. The clause 6 of the Accord states, "Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people". Besides, Bezbarauah, a retired IAS officer, the members of the panel are: former IAS officer Subhash Das, Nagen Saikia, former President, Assam Sahitya Sabha, Dhiren Bezbaruah, former editor of The Sentinel, Mukunda Rajbangshi, educationalist, Ramesh Borpatragohain, advocate general of Assam, Rongbong Terang, former president of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, and one representative of the All Assam Students' Union. The joint secretary in the Home Ministry will be member secretary.

Centre sets up panel for reservation of seats in assembly, local bodies for Assamese

A 'yellow' alert has been sounded for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a cyclonic storm is moving towards the archipelago, the Home Ministry said on Saturday.

The sea condition will be high over the Andaman Islands, the Andaman Sea and the adjoining areas of east-central and south-east Bay of Bengal till January 7 due to the cyclonic storm 'Pabuk', a home ministry official said, quoting a weather bulletin.

"Pabuk originated over the Gulf of Thailand and neighbourhood, moved west-northwestwards with a speed of 10 kmph and lay centred over Thailand and neighbourhood,"&nbsp;he said.

The storm will become very rough over the south-east and east-central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands and the adjoining Andaman Sea by January 8 and rough over east-central and adjoining south-east Bay of Bengal by January 8.

The sea condition will be very rough over the Nicobar Islands till Sunday. People in the Andaman Islands are advised to remain in safe places, the official said.

The weather department has advised total suspension of fishing operation over the Andaman Sea and adjoining south-east and the east-central Bay of Bengal till January 7 and over east-central and adjoining south-east Bay of Bengal till January 8.

"Fishermen are advised not to venture into the Andaman Sea and adjoining south-east and the east-central Bay of Bengal during the period,"&nbsp;the official said.

"It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and emerge into the Andaman Sea by forenoon of today. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and cross the Andaman Islands around evening/night of January 6 as a cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph," the official said.

The cyclonic storm is very likely to move north-northwestwards and then recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken gradually during January 7-8.

According to the bulletin, the sea condition will be high over the Andaman Sea along and off south Myanmar and Thailand coast till this evening.

A 'yellow' alert has been sounded for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a cyclonic storm is moving towards the archipelago, the Home Ministry said on Saturday. The sea condition will be high over the Andaman Islands, the Andaman Sea and the adjoining areas of east-central and south-east Bay of Bengal till January 7 due to the cyclonic storm 'Pabuk', a home ministry official said, quoting a weather bulletin.

A 'yellow' alert has been sounded for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a cyclonic storm is moving towards the archipelago, the Home Ministry said on Saturday. The sea condition will be high over the Andaman Islands, the Andaman Sea and the adjoining areas of east-central and south-east Bay of Bengal till January 7 due to the cyclonic storm 'Pabuk', a home ministry official said, quoting a weather bulletin. "Pabuk originated over the Gulf of Thailand and neighbourhood, moved west-northwestwards with a speed of 10 kmph and lay centred over Thailand and neighbourhood," he said. The storm will become very rough over the south-east and east-central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands and the adjoining Andaman Sea by January 8 and rough over east-central and adjoining south-east Bay of Bengal by January 8. The sea condition will be very rough over the Nicobar Islands till Sunday. People in the Andaman Islands are advised to remain in safe places, the official said. The weather department has advised total suspension of fishing operation over the Andaman Sea and adjoining south-east and the east-central Bay of Bengal till January 7 and over east-central and adjoining south-east Bay of Bengal till January 8. "Fishermen are advised not to venture into the Andaman Sea and adjoining south-east and the east-central Bay of Bengal during the period," the official said. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and emerge into the Andaman Sea by forenoon of today. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and cross the Andaman Islands around evening/night of January 6 as a cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph," the official said. The cyclonic storm is very likely to move north-northwestwards and then recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken gradually during January 7-8. According to the bulletin, the sea condition will be high over the Andaman Sea along and off south Myanmar and Thailand coast till this evening.

Cyclone 'Pabuk' moves towards the Andamans; yellow alert sounded

Delhi's air quality deteriorated again to severe category on Saturday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions after showing a slight improvement on Friday, authorities said.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city reached 417, which is in the 'severe' category.

Twenty-six areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality, while 8 gauged 'very poor', it said.

In NCR areas, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, the CPCB said.

Delhi's air quality slightly improved on Friday with improved wind speed but due to unfavourable meteorological conditions again turned severe, officials said.

The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometres) in Delhi was recorded at 298 while the PM10 level was at 468, the CPCB said.

An AQI between 100 and 200 comes under 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 is 'severe'. 
Authorities said the severe air quality is due to unfavourable meteorological conditions and sufficient rainfall that is predicted for Saturday might improve the air quality but warned that little showers with calm winds would only aggravate the situation rapidly.

As per the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) model, fog intensity is likely to decline with increased gusty winds.

"An active western disturbance is very likely to cause fairly widespread moisture intrusion over the northern region, including Delhi, but only after three days when withdrawal is expected," it said.

In view of the air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) had ordered a 24-hour ban on the entry of trucks into the national capital.

The entry of trucks to Delhi would be disallowed?" from 11 pm on Friday to 11 pm on Saturday in view of the severe pollution in the city, the EPCA instructed authorities.

In a letter to the chief secretaries of Delhi and the neighbouring states of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, EPCA chief Bhure Lal directed them to stop the entry of truck traffic into the national capital (except essential commodities) during the period.

This would be the second time this season that a ban on the entry of trucks would be imposed.

Earlier, it was done in November when the deterioration of air quality was observed.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated again to severe category on Saturday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions after showing a slight improvement on Friday, authorities said.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated again to severe category on Saturday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions after showing a slight improvement on Friday, authorities said. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city reached 417, which is in the 'severe' category. Twenty-six areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality, while 8 gauged 'very poor', it said. In NCR areas, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, the CPCB said. Delhi's air quality slightly improved on Friday with improved wind speed but due to unfavourable meteorological conditions again turned severe, officials said. The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometres) in Delhi was recorded at 298 while the PM10 level was at 468, the CPCB said. An AQI between 100 and 200 comes under 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 is 'severe'. Authorities said the severe air quality is due to unfavourable meteorological conditions and sufficient rainfall that is predicted for Saturday might improve the air quality but warned that little showers with calm winds would only aggravate the situation rapidly. As per the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) model, fog intensity is likely to decline with increased gusty winds. "An active western disturbance is very likely to cause fairly widespread moisture intrusion over the northern region, including Delhi, but only after three days when withdrawal is expected," it said. In view of the air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) had ordered a 24-hour ban on the entry of trucks into the national capital. The entry of trucks to Delhi would be disallowed?" from 11 pm on Friday to 11 pm on Saturday in view of the severe pollution in the city, the EPCA instructed authorities. In a letter to the chief secretaries of Delhi and the neighbouring states of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, EPCA chief Bhure Lal directed them to stop the entry of truck traffic into the national capital (except essential commodities) during the period. This would be the second time this season that a ban on the entry of trucks would be imposed. Earlier, it was done in November when the deterioration of air quality was observed.

Delhi's air quality worsens again, turns 'severe'

Kauravas were born due to stem cell and test tube technologies and India also possessed knowledge about guided missiles thousands of years ago, claimed Andhra University Vice-Chancellor G Nageshwar Rao at the Indian Science Congress Friday.

He claimed the 'Dashavtar', ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, predate the Theory of Evolution given by English naturalist Charles Darwin.&nbsp;

At a presentation, Rao said Lord Rama used 'astras' and 'shastras' (weapons), while Lord Vishnu sent a Sudarshan Chakra to chase targets. After hitting them they would come back, he said.

This shows that the science of guided missiles is not new to India and it was present thousands of years ago, the vice chancellor said.&nbsp;

Rao also said the Ramayana states that Ravan didn't just have the Pushpak Viman, but had 24 types of aircraft of varying sizes and capacities. He also had several airports in Lanka and he used these aircraft for different purposes.&nbsp;

Rao said that as Darwin stated life started from water the first avatar of Lord Vishnu was also a fish (Matsya).

For the second avatar, he took shape of a tortoise (Kurma), an amphibious animal, the third avatar was a boar's head and a human body (Varaha), the fourth was the Narasimha avatar with the head of a lion and human body. He took on the human form of Vaman in the fifth avatar.&nbsp;

He questioned how Gandhari, the mother of Kauravas, could give birth to 100 children.

"Everybody wonders and nobody believes, how come Gandhari gave birth to 100 children. How is it humanly possible? Can a woman give birth to 100 children in one lifetime," he asked.&nbsp;

"But now we believe we have test tube babies. Again Mahabharat says, 100 eggs were fertilised and put into 100 earthen pots. Are they not test tube babies? Stem cell research in this country was present thousands of years ago. Today, we speak about stem cell research.&nbsp;

"We had hundreds of Kauravas from one mother because of stem cell research and test tube baby technology. It happened a few thousand years ago. This was science in this country," he said.&nbsp;

In another presentation, one Dr Kannan Krishnan, who claimed to be an Indian-born Australian national, sought to debunk Albert Einstein's Theory of Relativity.

Aniket Sule, Reader at the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, said stem cell research, test tube babies, guided missiles, aircraft were very advanced technologies and any civilisation which possessed them, must also possess many simpler technologies which are absolute must for these advanced ones.

"You need electricity, metallurgy, mechanics, propulsion etc. We don't see any evidence of these," he said. 
Sule noted that in the last few years, there has been an increasing trend of some people reinterpreting some poetic verses in old texts to extract any random meaning they want.&nbsp;

"That is exactly opposite of real research," Sule added.

He claimed the 'Dashavtar', ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, predate the Theory of Evolution given by English naturalist Charles Darwin.

Kauravas were born due to stem cell and test tube technologies and India also possessed knowledge about guided missiles thousands of years ago, claimed Andhra University Vice-Chancellor G Nageshwar Rao at the Indian Science Congress Friday. He claimed the 'Dashavtar', ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, predate the Theory of Evolution given by English naturalist Charles Darwin. At a presentation, Rao said Lord Rama used 'astras' and 'shastras' (weapons), while Lord Vishnu sent a Sudarshan Chakra to chase targets. After hitting them they would come back, he said. This shows that the science of guided missiles is not new to India and it was present thousands of years ago, the vice chancellor said. Rao also said the Ramayana states that Ravan didn't just have the Pushpak Viman, but had 24 types of aircraft of varying sizes and capacities. He also had several airports in Lanka and he used these aircraft for different purposes. Rao said that as Darwin stated life started from water the first avatar of Lord Vishnu was also a fish (Matsya). For the second avatar, he took shape of a tortoise (Kurma), an amphibious animal, the third avatar was a boar's head and a human body (Varaha), the fourth was the Narasimha avatar with the head of a lion and human body. He took on the human form of Vaman in the fifth avatar. He questioned how Gandhari, the mother of Kauravas, could give birth to 100 children. "Everybody wonders and nobody believes, how come Gandhari gave birth to 100 children. How is it humanly possible? Can a woman give birth to 100 children in one lifetime," he asked. "But now we believe we have test tube babies. Again Mahabharat says, 100 eggs were fertilised and put into 100 earthen pots. Are they not test tube babies? Stem cell research in this country was present thousands of years ago. Today, we speak about stem cell research. "We had hundreds of Kauravas from one mother because of stem cell research and test tube baby technology. It happened a few thousand years ago. This was science in this country," he said. In another presentation, one Dr Kannan Krishnan, who claimed to be an Indian-born Australian national, sought to debunk Albert Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Aniket Sule, Reader at the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, said stem cell research, test tube babies, guided missiles, aircraft were very advanced technologies and any civilisation which possessed them, must also possess many simpler technologies which are absolute must for these advanced ones. "You need electricity, metallurgy, mechanics, propulsion etc. We don't see any evidence of these," he said. Sule noted that in the last few years, there has been an increasing trend of some people reinterpreting some poetic verses in old texts to extract any random meaning they want. "That is exactly opposite of real research," Sule added.

Kauravas were test tube babies, ancient India knew about guided missiles: Andhra University VC

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said.

Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured.

"My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh.

In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI.

The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala.&nbsp;

Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala.

So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state.

Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA A N Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday. The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi. The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said. Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured. "My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh. In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI. The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala. Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala. So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state. Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

Sabarimala violence: BJP MP's ancestral home attacked; RSS office set on fire 

Lashing out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation and GST, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday dubbed him as an "incompetent man who listens to nobody".

The Congress president accused Modi of destroying India's growth story through these two measures.

"Congress built the India growth story. Modi has used demonetisation and the Gabbar Singh Tax to completely destroy it. He's an incompetent man who listens to nobody," Gandhi tweeted, citing a media report.

The report claimed that demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax were headed to look like bigger failures (than they actually are) due to flow of black money and tax evasion.

Lashing out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation and GST, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday dubbed him as an "incompetent man who listens to nobody".

Lashing out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation and GST, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday dubbed him as an "incompetent man who listens to nobody". The Congress president accused Modi of destroying India's growth story through these two measures. "Congress built the India growth story. Modi has used demonetisation and the Gabbar Singh Tax to completely destroy it. He's an incompetent man who listens to nobody," Gandhi tweeted, citing a media report. The report claimed that demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax were headed to look like bigger failures (than they actually are) due to flow of black money and tax evasion.

Narendra Modi an 'incompetent man' who listens to nobody: Rahul Gandhi

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has sought an explanation from the Tantri (chief priest) of the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala for the "purification" ritual, held after two women of menstruating age entered the hilltop shrine.

The board has asked Tantri to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc.

On September 28 last year, the Supreme Court has lifted a ban on entry of age group between 10 to 50 years into the Lord Ayyappa shrine, the "purification" process was against the verdict of the apex court.

The incident comes days after two women below 50 years, Bindu and Kanakadurga, entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers.

Following this, purification process took place in the temple and violent protests broke out across the state with agitators pelting stones and blocking national highways.

Several parties including BJP also held a protest march in most parts of the state against the entry of women into the hilltop shrine. (ANI)&nbsp;

The board has asked the priest to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc.

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has sought an explanation from the Tantri (chief priest) of the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala for the "purification" ritual, held after two women of menstruating age entered the hilltop shrine. The board has asked Tantri to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc. On September 28 last year, the Supreme Court has lifted a ban on entry of age group between 10 to 50 years into the Lord Ayyappa shrine, the "purification" process was against the verdict of the apex court. The incident comes days after two women below 50 years, Bindu and Kanakadurga, entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers. Following this, purification process took place in the temple and violent protests broke out across the state with agitators pelting stones and blocking national highways. Several parties including BJP also held a protest march in most parts of the state against the entry of women into the hilltop shrine. (ANI)

Sabarimala row: Travancore Devaswom Board seeks explanation from temple priest for purification ritual

Alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-chopper-case-to-be-major-issue-in-2019-polls-himachal-cm-187630">AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case</a>, received money from other defence deals as well which was to be probed, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Saturday told a Delhi court, which sent the accused to judicial custody. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The agency told special judge Arvind Kumar that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/friendship-between-one-family-and-christian-michel-time-tested-and-deep-amit-shah-187520">Michel</a> had received 24.25 million euros and 1,60,96,245 pounds from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-rahul-gandhi-never-interfered-in-any-defence-deal-a-k-antony-187517">AgustaWestland deal</a>. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"During the interrogation, it was observed that he had also received money from other defence deals, which the ED will enquire," it said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED's special public prosecutors, D P Singh and N K Matta, also told the court that the "accused has also routed money through 'hawala' operators for acquiring cash and for the purchase of property." 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED produced Michel before the court on the expiry of his 14-day custodial interrogation and requested the court to send him to judicial custody, claiming that he might flee from justice if left free. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"The accused is a British national and has no roots in India. There is every likelihood that he may abscond from India and evade the process of law, especially in the light of his past conduct. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"He has been brought to this court through rigorous extradition proceedings. His fleeing away from justice again cannot be ruled out," the ED said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The application was allowed by the court, which sent Michel to judicial custody till February 26. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
In the CBI case related to the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, the court sent Michel to judicial custody till February 27. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Michel, who was extradited from Dubai recently, was arrested by the ED on December 22 and since then was in the agency's custody on a court order. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED told the court that it had identified Michel's properties purchased with the proceeds of crime. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"He has given contradictory answers to various questions and he was not able to explain the contradiction," it said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The agency told the court that the audit report submitted during the trial in an Italian court was appearing to be factually incorrect. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"Hence, it is required to be seen whether the Italian court had based its decision on the said audit report," it said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED added that it had "investigated how cash was transferred through 'hawala' and multiple bank accounts. We have found information about other defence deals. We need to investigate the money flowing there as well. We have documents to show that they misled the Italian court". 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The court had earlier imposed restrictions on Michel meeting his lawyers in ED custody after the agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates, asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi".

In its application seeking extension of Michel's remand, the agency also claimed that during questioning, he had spoken about the "son of an Italian lady" and how he was going to become the next prime minister of the country. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"We also need to decipher who the 'big man' referred to as 'R' is in the communications between Michel and other people," the ED told the court. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
It sought that Michel be barred from meeting his lawyers in custody, alleging that he was being tutored from outside through his lawyers. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED told the court that Michel had made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi" during his interrogation on December 27. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
During his medical examination, the accused had handed over a folded paper to his lawyer, Aljo K Joseph, which was noticed by the ED officials. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
After the perusal of the paper, it was revealed that it pertained to a set of follow-up questions on "Mrs Gandhi", the ED said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The agency told the court that it was clear that there was a conspiracy to shield or tamper with the evidence that could be brought forth from the questioning of the accused. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
It said it had discovered fresh evidence relating to new entities used for laundering the proceeds of crime and that Michel's custodial interrogation was needed for confronting his Indian connections identified till date. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED, in its remand application on Saturday, said the probe had revealed that Michel was the key middleman for AgustaWestland, pursuing the deal at different levels, and was instrumental in the circulation of sensitive information and eventual payment of kickbacks. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The key issues being investigated by the ED include the modus operandi adopted by the accused to eliminate TATA and HAL from competition in an Italian deal and the steps undertaken to mask the present deal as a British deal, instead of an Italian deal, to gain advantage in Light Observation Helicopters.

The agency is also probing the modus operandi adopted in influencing the German deal and how the accused misused information, leading to actions under the Official Secrets Act, and to determine if there were any more kickbacks, leading to the proceeds of crime linked with these activities. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The ED, in its chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, had alleged that he had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland.

The CBI, in its chargesheet, has alleged an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore) to the exchequer in the deal that was signed on February 8, 2010 for the supply of VVIP choppers worth 556.262 million euros.

Alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, received money from other defence deals as well which was to be probed, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Saturday told a Delhi court, which sent the accused to judicial custody.

Alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, received money from other defence deals as well which was to be probed, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Saturday told a Delhi court, which sent the accused to judicial custody. The agency told special judge Arvind Kumar that Michel had received 24.25 million euros and 1,60,96,245 pounds from the AgustaWestland deal. "During the interrogation, it was observed that he had also received money from other defence deals, which the ED will enquire," it said. The ED's special public prosecutors, D P Singh and N K Matta, also told the court that the "accused has also routed money through 'hawala' operators for acquiring cash and for the purchase of property." The ED produced Michel before the court on the expiry of his 14-day custodial interrogation and requested the court to send him to judicial custody, claiming that he might flee from justice if left free. "The accused is a British national and has no roots in India. There is every likelihood that he may abscond from India and evade the process of law, especially in the light of his past conduct. "He has been brought to this court through rigorous extradition proceedings. His fleeing away from justice again cannot be ruled out," the ED said. The application was allowed by the court, which sent Michel to judicial custody till February 26. In the CBI case related to the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, the court sent Michel to judicial custody till February 27. Michel, who was extradited from Dubai recently, was arrested by the ED on December 22 and since then was in the agency's custody on a court order. The ED told the court that it had identified Michel's properties purchased with the proceeds of crime. "He has given contradictory answers to various questions and he was not able to explain the contradiction," it said. The agency told the court that the audit report submitted during the trial in an Italian court was appearing to be factually incorrect. "Hence, it is required to be seen whether the Italian court had based its decision on the said audit report," it said. The ED added that it had "investigated how cash was transferred through 'hawala' and multiple bank accounts. We have found information about other defence deals. We need to investigate the money flowing there as well. We have documents to show that they misled the Italian court". The court had earlier imposed restrictions on Michel meeting his lawyers in ED custody after the agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates, asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi". In its application seeking extension of Michel's remand, the agency also claimed that during questioning, he had spoken about the "son of an Italian lady" and how he was going to become the next prime minister of the country. "We also need to decipher who the 'big man' referred to as 'R' is in the communications between Michel and other people," the ED told the court. It sought that Michel be barred from meeting his lawyers in custody, alleging that he was being tutored from outside through his lawyers. The ED told the court that Michel had made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi" during his interrogation on December 27. During his medical examination, the accused had handed over a folded paper to his lawyer, Aljo K Joseph, which was noticed by the ED officials. After the perusal of the paper, it was revealed that it pertained to a set of follow-up questions on "Mrs Gandhi", the ED said. The agency told the court that it was clear that there was a conspiracy to shield or tamper with the evidence that could be brought forth from the questioning of the accused. It said it had discovered fresh evidence relating to new entities used for laundering the proceeds of crime and that Michel's custodial interrogation was needed for confronting his Indian connections identified till date. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. The ED, in its remand application on Saturday, said the probe had revealed that Michel was the key middleman for AgustaWestland, pursuing the deal at different levels, and was instrumental in the circulation of sensitive information and eventual payment of kickbacks. The key issues being investigated by the ED include the modus operandi adopted by the accused to eliminate TATA and HAL from competition in an Italian deal and the steps undertaken to mask the present deal as a British deal, instead of an Italian deal, to gain advantage in Light Observation Helicopters. The agency is also probing the modus operandi adopted in influencing the German deal and how the accused misused information, leading to actions under the Official Secrets Act, and to determine if there were any more kickbacks, leading to the proceeds of crime linked with these activities. The ED, in its chargesheet filed against Michel in June 2016, had alleged that he had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland. The CBI, in its chargesheet, has alleged an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore) to the exchequer in the deal that was signed on February 8, 2010 for the supply of VVIP choppers worth 556.262 million euros.

AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case: Christian Michel received money from other defence deals as well Enforcement Directorate tells court

The Indian Meteorological Department said that a cyclonic storm, namely 'Pabuk', which has centred itself over the Gulf of Thailand, is very likely to move northwestwards and emerge into the Andaman Sea by Friday forenoon.

On Friday morning, the cyclonic storm moved west-northwestwards from the South China Sea region and centred itself over the Gulf of Thailand, between latitude 8.3 degrees North and longitude 101.0 degrees East, about 990 km east-southeast of Port Blair.

Therefore, it is very likely to cross the Andaman Islands around the evening of January 6, IMD said.

The weather agency, in a statement, said that the storm will recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken further by January 7.

"The cyclonic storm will recurve towards Myanmar. According to latest data, no cyclonic situation for Odisha but because of cyclonic activities near the Andaman Islands, weather in Odisha's coastal district will be cloudy and dry," said GC Bahera, scientist IMD.

IMD has issued an alert regarding heavy rainfall over the Andaman Islands from the evening of January 5.

The sea condition will be rough to very rough over the Andaman Sea along and off south Myanmar and Thailand coast from today evening.

It also is very likely to become very rough to high over the Andaman Sea on January 5th and over the adjoining areas of East-central and the southeast Bay of Bengal on 6th and 7th of January, the IMD further informed.

The weather agency did not forecast any sign of rainfall. However, fishermen have been asked to stop their fishing activities in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal over the next 72 hours.

The weather agency, in a statement, said that the storm will recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken further by January 7.

The Indian Meteorological Department said that a cyclonic storm, namely 'Pabuk', which has centred itself over the Gulf of Thailand, is very likely to move northwestwards and emerge into the Andaman Sea by Friday forenoon. On Friday morning, the cyclonic storm moved west-northwestwards from the South China Sea region and centred itself over the Gulf of Thailand, between latitude 8.3 degrees North and longitude 101.0 degrees East, about 990 km east-southeast of Port Blair. Therefore, it is very likely to cross the Andaman Islands around the evening of January 6, IMD said. The weather agency, in a statement, said that the storm will recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken further by January 7. "The cyclonic storm will recurve towards Myanmar. According to latest data, no cyclonic situation for Odisha but because of cyclonic activities near the Andaman Islands, weather in Odisha's coastal district will be cloudy and dry," said GC Bahera, scientist IMD. IMD has issued an alert regarding heavy rainfall over the Andaman Islands from the evening of January 5. The sea condition will be rough to very rough over the Andaman Sea along and off south Myanmar and Thailand coast from today evening. It also is very likely to become very rough to high over the Andaman Sea on January 5th and over the adjoining areas of East-central and the southeast Bay of Bengal on 6th and 7th of January, the IMD further informed. The weather agency did not forecast any sign of rainfall. However, fishermen have been asked to stop their fishing activities in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal over the next 72 hours.

Cyclone Pabuk to bring heavy rainfall in Andamans

The Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress will be contesting together in upcoming Lok Sabha elections, NCP leader Praful Patel said on Saturday.

"We have decided that NCP and Congress will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together on 40 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra," Patel said.

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Praful Patel, NCP: We have decided that NCP &amp; Congress will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections together on 40 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. However, a decision is yet to be taken for the remaining 8 Lok Sabha seats of the state. <a href="https://t.co/INMjJj9gxr">pic.twitter.com/INMjJj9gxr</a>
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"However, a decision is yet to be taken for the remaining 8 Lok Sabha seats of the state," he added.

Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh's 80.

In December, NCP president Sharad Pawar had also confirmed that his party and Congress have reached consensus on sharing 40 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats.

"We have decided the seat-sharing on 40 seats, still, eight are left. If any consensus is not reached on remaining eight seats then the final decision will be taken by the two party chiefs in New Delhi," ANI reported Pawar as saying.

During 2014 general elections, the Rahul Gandhi-led Congress had fielded political contenders for 27 constituencies in Maharashtra, while the Pawar-led NCP had contested on 21 seats. Earlier, the seat sharing was fixed at 26:22, but later the NCP decided not to contest from the Hatkanangale constituency as it did not have any contender.&nbsp;

This seat was later contested by the Congress.

Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh's 80.

The Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress will be contesting together in upcoming Lok Sabha elections, NCP leader Praful Patel said on Saturday. "We have decided that NCP and Congress will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together on 40 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra," Patel said. Praful Patel, NCP: We have decided that NCP & Congress will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections together on 40 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. However, a decision is yet to be taken for the remaining 8 Lok Sabha seats of the state. pic.twitter.com/INMjJj9gxr — ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2019 × "However, a decision is yet to be taken for the remaining 8 Lok Sabha seats of the state," he added. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh's 80. In December, NCP president Sharad Pawar had also confirmed that his party and Congress have reached consensus on sharing 40 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats. "We have decided the seat-sharing on 40 seats, still, eight are left. If any consensus is not reached on remaining eight seats then the final decision will be taken by the two party chiefs in New Delhi," ANI reported Pawar as saying. During 2014 general elections, the Rahul Gandhi-led Congress had fielded political contenders for 27 constituencies in Maharashtra, while the Pawar-led NCP had contested on 21 seats. Earlier, the seat sharing was fixed at 26:22, but later the NCP decided not to contest from the Hatkanangale constituency as it did not have any contender. This seat was later contested by the Congress.

NCP, Congress to contest Lok Sabha polls together in Maharashtra: Praful Patel

Pakistan has been intermittently violating the ceasefire since last 48 hours along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, news agency ANI reported on Friday.

Indian Army has also been retaliating.

According to the&nbsp;report, no casualty or injury has been reported so far.

The latest ceasefire violation comes days after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions.

On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan.

On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara.

The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

According to the report, no casualty or injury has been reported so far.

Pakistan has been intermittently violating the ceasefire since last 48 hours along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, news agency ANI reported on Friday. Indian Army has also been retaliating. According to the report, no casualty or injury has been reported so far. The latest ceasefire violation comes days after Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch as they targeted forward positions. On December 26, one civilian was killed in the ceasefire violations incident by Pakistan. On December 21, two Army personnel lost their lives during a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Keran sector of Kupwara. The deceased soldiers were identified as Subedar Gamar Thapa and Subedar Raman Thapa.

Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire along LoC in Poonch

Three men were killed and four wounded in a shooting at a bowling alley in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance and police said early on Saturday they were searching for a suspect or suspects.

The incident followed a fight at the Gable House Bowl, a bowling alley and arcade that also offers laser tag, according to local media.

The Torrance Police Department said officers responded to a shot-fired call at the location found multiple gunshot victims. Two men were taken to hospital, two opted to seek their own medical attention, and three were pronounced dead at the scene.

"Investigators are currently conducting a follow-up investigation, and are working to identify the suspect(s) involved," the department said in a statement.

Customers described a fight before the gunshots rang out. 
"We just ran into the bar and we just took cover because after the fight we heard 'pop! pop!" Gable House Bowl patron Jesus Perez told the Los Angeles Times.

Torrance is about 25 miles (40 km) south of Los Angeles.

Three men were killed and four wounded in a shooting at a bowling alley in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance and police said early on Saturday they were searching for a suspect or suspects.

Three men were killed and four wounded in a shooting at a bowling alley in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance and police said early on Saturday they were searching for a suspect or suspects. The incident followed a fight at the Gable House Bowl, a bowling alley and arcade that also offers laser tag, according to local media. The Torrance Police Department said officers responded to a shot-fired call at the location found multiple gunshot victims. Two men were taken to hospital, two opted to seek their own medical attention, and three were pronounced dead at the scene. "Investigators are currently conducting a follow-up investigation, and are working to identify the suspect(s) involved," the department said in a statement. Customers described a fight before the gunshots rang out. "We just ran into the bar and we just took cover because after the fight we heard 'pop! pop!" Gable House Bowl patron Jesus Perez told the Los Angeles Times. Torrance is about 25 miles (40 km) south of Los Angeles.

Three killed, four wounded in California bowling alley shooting: Police

BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday said that the party would fight the coming general election on the issues like development, defence and self-respect of the country.

He expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would come back to power with the BJP winning more than 300 seats.

The saffron party had won 282 seats in the 2014 poll, more than the magic number required for forming a government.

"Development, defence and self-respect of the country are the main issues in the next general elections with which the BJP will go into the poll. Prime Minister Narendra Modi would come back to power by winning more than 300 seats", Shah told a press conference.

When asked about building of Ram temple at Ayodhya, he said, So far the issue of Ram Mandir is concerned, Congress does not want the case is settled fast. According to the announcement of the BJP, we want Ram Mandir is built, but remaining within the structure of law.

He said, there would be drastic changes in the poll scenario in the West Bengal where BJP would win more than 23 
seats out of a total of 42 seats.

He also claimed that his party would also win 21 seats out of 25 in the northeastern region of the country.

Coming down heavily on efforts of the anti-BJP parties to come together, Shah said, the Mahagatbandhan of Congress can give a helpless (Majbur) government and BJP can give a strong (Majbut) government under the leadership of Modiji.

The Modi government has conducted huge developmental works throughout the country, but what is remarkable is strengthening the security and defence of the country, he said.

Shah said, when enemies attack soldiers of America or Israel, they immediately retaliate. After the two countries, India is now the third country in the world which also retaliates after formation of the BJP government in 2014.

The BJP Chief also claimed that Prime Minister Modi has set a precedent of a strong India by holding surgical strike inside Pakistan after terrorist attacks on Indian Army base at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in 2016.

Earlier, Shaha kicked off election campaign at the Swami Vivekananda Maidan here by addressing 50,000 Panna Promukhs and other party workers.

During his address, Amit Shah Saturday appealed people of Tripura to ensure victory with huge margin in two Lok Sabha seats from the state.

Prime Minister Modi works 18 hours a day. He comes from a poor family and works tirelessly for the country. After five years in the office of PM, nobody can raise a single allegation against him. Only he can lead a majboot sarkar (strong government), Shah said.

He launched a scathing attack against the Congress-led alliance saying they have neither policy, nor leader or any sort of promise.

What is the neeti (policy) of this alliance? Who is its 'neta (leader)? Who will run their government? So, build close coordination with every single person in the state and make sure that both Lok Sabha seats from Tripura are gifted to Narendra Modiji in 2019, he said.

Among others, BJP General Secretary, Ram Madhab, and state In-charge Sunil Deodhar and Chief Minister Biplab Kumar also spoke in the meeting.&nbsp;

BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday said that the party would fight the coming general election on the issues like development, defence and self-respect of the country.

BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday said that the party would fight the coming general election on the issues like development, defence and self-respect of the country. He expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would come back to power with the BJP winning more than 300 seats. The saffron party had won 282 seats in the 2014 poll, more than the magic number required for forming a government. "Development, defence and self-respect of the country are the main issues in the next general elections with which the BJP will go into the poll. Prime Minister Narendra Modi would come back to power by winning more than 300 seats", Shah told a press conference. When asked about building of Ram temple at Ayodhya, he said, So far the issue of Ram Mandir is concerned, Congress does not want the case is settled fast. According to the announcement of the BJP, we want Ram Mandir is built, but remaining within the structure of law. He said, there would be drastic changes in the poll scenario in the West Bengal where BJP would win more than 23 seats out of a total of 42 seats. He also claimed that his party would also win 21 seats out of 25 in the northeastern region of the country. Coming down heavily on efforts of the anti-BJP parties to come together, Shah said, the Mahagatbandhan of Congress can give a helpless (Majbur) government and BJP can give a strong (Majbut) government under the leadership of Modiji. The Modi government has conducted huge developmental works throughout the country, but what is remarkable is strengthening the security and defence of the country, he said. Shah said, when enemies attack soldiers of America or Israel, they immediately retaliate. After the two countries, India is now the third country in the world which also retaliates after formation of the BJP government in 2014. The BJP Chief also claimed that Prime Minister Modi has set a precedent of a strong India by holding surgical strike inside Pakistan after terrorist attacks on Indian Army base at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in 2016. Earlier, Shaha kicked off election campaign at the Swami Vivekananda Maidan here by addressing 50,000 Panna Promukhs and other party workers. During his address, Amit Shah Saturday appealed people of Tripura to ensure victory with huge margin in two Lok Sabha seats from the state. Prime Minister Modi works 18 hours a day. He comes from a poor family and works tirelessly for the country. After five years in the office of PM, nobody can raise a single allegation against him. Only he can lead a majboot sarkar (strong government), Shah said. He launched a scathing attack against the Congress-led alliance saying they have neither policy, nor leader or any sort of promise. What is the neeti (policy) of this alliance? Who is its 'neta (leader)? Who will run their government? So, build close coordination with every single person in the state and make sure that both Lok Sabha seats from Tripura are gifted to Narendra Modiji in 2019, he said. Among others, BJP General Secretary, Ram Madhab, and state In-charge Sunil Deodhar and Chief Minister Biplab Kumar also spoke in the meeting.

BJP to fight 2019 poll on issues of development, defence and self respect of the country: Amit Shah

Protests over the Citizenship Bill erupted at various places in Assam on Saturday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his government was working to ensure the proposed legislation gets Parliament nod.

The agitators burnt effigies of Modi in Lower Assam and Dibrugarh, even as Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal assured the people that he would protect the interests of the state.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of their residence in India.

Several indigenous organisations in the state have been opposing the bill as they believe it would harm their cultural identity.

The PM, after flagging off the BJP’s Lok Sabha poll campaign in the northeast, said Friday that the bill was “not for the benefit of anyone but a penance against the injustice and many wrongs done in the past”.

Around 70 organisations, led by Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), took out protest rallies in the state capital in the morning.

The KMSS members had plans to march to the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) headquarters here to ask the party to break off its alliance with the BJP, but the police prevented them from doing so, its leader Akhil Gogoi Gogoi told reporters.

&nbsp;“We took out the rally to urge the people to come out of their homes and protest against the prime minister’s announcement. The bill will put the identity of the indigenous people at stake.

“We cannot tolerate a leader coming from Delhi and threatening our very existence while the chief minister and other BJP leaders applaud him,” Gogoi said.

Meanwhile, Sonowal on Saturday asked the people to keep calm as the state government would never do anything to harm their interests.

“I am the chief minister of Assam and I have been entrusted with the duty of protecting the interest of the people of both Brahmaputra and Barak Valley. People should not doubt the government’s intention,” he told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

He said he would go all out to secure the identity of its people.

“We are committed to fulfill our responsibilities with sincerity. I will go all out to ensure that ‘Jati-Mati-Bheti and Krishti’ (community, land, homeland and cultural identity) are not affected,” he added.

Protests over the Citizenship Bill erupted at various places in Assam on Saturday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his government was working to ensure the proposed legislation gets Parliament nod.

Protests over the Citizenship Bill erupted at various places in Assam on Saturday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his government was working to ensure the proposed legislation gets Parliament nod. The agitators burnt effigies of Modi in Lower Assam and Dibrugarh, even as Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal assured the people that he would protect the interests of the state. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of their residence in India. Several indigenous organisations in the state have been opposing the bill as they believe it would harm their cultural identity. The PM, after flagging off the BJP’s Lok Sabha poll campaign in the northeast, said Friday that the bill was “not for the benefit of anyone but a penance against the injustice and many wrongs done in the past”. Around 70 organisations, led by Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), took out protest rallies in the state capital in the morning. The KMSS members had plans to march to the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) headquarters here to ask the party to break off its alliance with the BJP, but the police prevented them from doing so, its leader Akhil Gogoi Gogoi told reporters. “We took out the rally to urge the people to come out of their homes and protest against the prime minister’s announcement. The bill will put the identity of the indigenous people at stake. “We cannot tolerate a leader coming from Delhi and threatening our very existence while the chief minister and other BJP leaders applaud him,” Gogoi said. Meanwhile, Sonowal on Saturday asked the people to keep calm as the state government would never do anything to harm their interests. “I am the chief minister of Assam and I have been entrusted with the duty of protecting the interest of the people of both Brahmaputra and Barak Valley. People should not doubt the government’s intention,” he told reporters on the sidelines of a function here. He said he would go all out to secure the identity of its people. “We are committed to fulfill our responsibilities with sincerity. I will go all out to ensure that ‘Jati-Mati-Bheti and Krishti’ (community, land, homeland and cultural identity) are not affected,” he added.

Protests against Citizenship Bill rock Assam, CM asks the public to keep calm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jharkhand and Odisha on Saturday to lay foundation stones of various projects, said an official statement.

In Jharkhand, the Prime Minister will unveil the plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone of revival of North Koel (Mandal Dam) project and Kanhar Stone Pipeline irrigation system.

He will inaugurate the collective e-griha&nbsp;pravesh of twenty-five thousand beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana through video conferencing.

He will also address a public gathering.

At Odisha's Baripada, the Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation, Balasore-Haldia-Durgapur section of LPG pipeline project of IOCL and the Balasore multi-modal logistics park.

The Prime Minister will unveil the plaque to mark the commencement of work for the development and conservation of Rasika Ray temple at an ancient fort, Haripurgarh.

He will also lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of various National Highway projects and inaugurate six passport Seva Kendras.

He will also flag off the second passenger train from Tatanagar to Badampahar.

Further, he will also address a public gathering at Baripada.&nbsp;

In Jharkhand, the Prime Minister will unveil the plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone of revival of North Koel (Mandal Dam) project and Kanhar Stone Pipeline irrigation system.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jharkhand and Odisha on Saturday to lay foundation stones of various projects, said an official statement. In Jharkhand, the Prime Minister will unveil the plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone of revival of North Koel (Mandal Dam) project and Kanhar Stone Pipeline irrigation system. He will inaugurate the collective e-griha pravesh of twenty-five thousand beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana through video conferencing. He will also address a public gathering. At Odisha's Baripada, the Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation, Balasore-Haldia-Durgapur section of LPG pipeline project of IOCL and the Balasore multi-modal logistics park. The Prime Minister will unveil the plaque to mark the commencement of work for the development and conservation of Rasika Ray temple at an ancient fort, Haripurgarh. He will also lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of various National Highway projects and inaugurate six passport Seva Kendras. He will also flag off the second passenger train from Tatanagar to Badampahar. Further, he will also address a public gathering at Baripada.

PM Modi to visit Jharkhand, Odisha today

Inspector Manoj Kumar who shouted 'thain thain' to scare criminals during an encounter in Sambhal on October 12 sustained injuries on Friday during an exchange of fire between police and criminals in Sambhal, reported news agency ANI.

"Two bike-borne miscreants fired at police during which SI Manoj Kumar suffered injuries. During counter-firing, a criminal was also injured. One criminal absconding. Injured have been taken to the hospital," &nbsp;said SP Yamuna Prasad.&nbsp;

Earlier a 14-minute video of Kumar's imitating sounds of gunshots to scare away the criminals during an encounter in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh went viral.

Kumar's revolver jammed during the course of the encounter forcing him to shout 'thain thain' to scare off the criminals.&nbsp;

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Inspector Manoj Kumar who shouted 'thain thain' to scare criminals during an encounter in Sambhal on 12 Oct got injured yesterday during an exchange of fire between police &amp; criminals in Sambhal. <a href="https://t.co/GBDjI5OzQg">pic.twitter.com/GBDjI5OzQg</a>
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In the video, shot on October 12, the cop was seen shouting, "maaro, ghero...thain thain" while other fellow officer struggled with his jammed up revolver.

Inspector Manoj Kumar who shouted 'thain thain' to scare criminals during an encounter in Sambhal on October 12 sustained injuries on Friday during an exchange of fire between police and criminals in Sambhal, reported news agency ANI.

Inspector Manoj Kumar who shouted 'thain thain' to scare criminals during an encounter in Sambhal on October 12 sustained injuries on Friday during an exchange of fire between police and criminals in Sambhal, reported news agency ANI. "Two bike-borne miscreants fired at police during which SI Manoj Kumar suffered injuries. During counter-firing, a criminal was also injured. One criminal absconding. Injured have been taken to the hospital," said SP Yamuna Prasad. Earlier a 14-minute video of Kumar's imitating sounds of gunshots to scare away the criminals during an encounter in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh went viral. Kumar's revolver jammed during the course of the encounter forcing him to shout 'thain thain' to scare off the criminals. Inspector Manoj Kumar who shouted 'thain thain' to scare criminals during an encounter in Sambhal on 12 Oct got injured yesterday during an exchange of fire between police & criminals in Sambhal. pic.twitter.com/GBDjI5OzQg — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 5, 2019 × In the video, shot on October 12, the cop was seen shouting, "maaro, ghero...thain thain" while other fellow officer struggled with his jammed up revolver.

Uttar Pradesh: 'Thain thain' fame cop injured in encounter 

Rajasthan government on Saturday directed health department officials to make arrangements like isolation wards, separate OPD and ICUs for swine flu patients in hospitals in the wake of spurt in H1N1 influenza cases in the state. Swine flu has claimed three lives and 120 positive cases were found in the state in last four days.

Health Minister Raghu Sharma has also directed chief medical and health officers to set up rapid action force for door-to-door screening in the flu affected areas, a spokesperson of the department said.

“The minister gave necessary directions to the official for making arrangements like separate OPDs, isolation wards for swine flu patients. Arrangement for swine flu testing has been made at all major hospitals in the state,” the spokesperson said. The stock of medicines is adequate to deal with the situation, he said.

Last Saturday, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has also directed health department officials to check the spread of swine flu in the state with special focus on the five districts where the number of cases has seen a spurt in recent months.

During a high-level meeting, the chief minister asked the officials to focus on Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur and Baran districts.

A total of 22,172 people in the state were tested for swine flu from January 1 to December 28 last year. Out of them, 2,315 were diagnosed positive and 218 had died.

Rajasthan government on Saturday directed health department officials to make arrangements like isolation wards, separate OPD and ICUs for swine flu patients in hospitals in the wake of spurt in H1N1 influenza cases in the state.

Rajasthan government on Saturday directed health department officials to make arrangements like isolation wards, separate OPD and ICUs for swine flu patients in hospitals in the wake of spurt in H1N1 influenza cases in the state. Swine flu has claimed three lives and 120 positive cases were found in the state in last four days. Health Minister Raghu Sharma has also directed chief medical and health officers to set up rapid action force for door-to-door screening in the flu affected areas, a spokesperson of the department said. “The minister gave necessary directions to the official for making arrangements like separate OPDs, isolation wards for swine flu patients. Arrangement for swine flu testing has been made at all major hospitals in the state,” the spokesperson said. The stock of medicines is adequate to deal with the situation, he said. Last Saturday, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has also directed health department officials to check the spread of swine flu in the state with special focus on the five districts where the number of cases has seen a spurt in recent months. During a high-level meeting, the chief minister asked the officials to focus on Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur and Baran districts. A total of 22,172 people in the state were tested for swine flu from January 1 to December 28 last year. Out of them, 2,315 were diagnosed positive and 218 had died.

Swine Flu in Rajasthan: Officials asked to make separate OPD, ICU arrangements

Supreme Court judge Justice A K Sikri on Saturday raised concern about the rights of persons with mental illness, saying it was an issue of their human rights and they had a right to live with dignity.&nbsp;

Citing an incident of asylum in Uttar Pradesh where many mentally-ill persons were chained, Sikri said, “This is happening in 2019 where we are talking about the legal rights of the mentally ill persons. It is no more a health issue alone now…. It is an issue of their human rights also as they are not getting a suitable environment which they need. They have the right to live like any other person.”

They are also the citizen of this country and they have the right to live with dignity. Their rights to live have been violated by the authorities itself, he said at a seminar here.

Sikri’s comments come two days after a bench comprising him and Justice S Abdul Nazeer said chaining people with mental illness was violative of their rights under Article 21 of the Constitution. It made the observations while hearing public interest litigation (PIL) about persons with mental illness being chained in the faith-based mental asylum in UP’s Badaun district in violation of the provisions of the Mental Health Care Act, 2017. The district administration freed 22 people on Saturday and handed them over to their family members.

Speaking at the seminar, Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain said a major reason nowadays to fall sick was a mental disorder. “Mental illness’ issue is that a particular person thinks that only I have done for the society. If a person is studying in eminent institutes like (the) IIT, then, he/she should not forget the contribution of the society. Now, the time has come when we need to give back at least something to the society.”

“We were slaves for so many years and, now, we do not believe in equality. Either we can work under someone or can make someone to work under us,” he said.

“Around 80-per cent people fall sick due to mental disorder and rest 20 per cent are because of other problems. The major issue of the mental disorder is the greed and that is the area where we need to work,” Jain said.

The minister also pointed out to the growing problem of people spending their major time on social media instead of interacting with each other in person.

The two-day was organised at the India International Centre by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLASA), Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS), Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Science (IHBAS) and the State Mental Health Authority.

Supreme Court judge Justice A K Sikri on Saturday raised concern about the rights of persons with mental illness, saying it was an issue of their human rights and they had a right to live with dignity.

Supreme Court judge Justice A K Sikri on Saturday raised concern about the rights of persons with mental illness, saying it was an issue of their human rights and they had a right to live with dignity. Citing an incident of asylum in Uttar Pradesh where many mentally-ill persons were chained, Sikri said, “This is happening in 2019 where we are talking about the legal rights of the mentally ill persons. It is no more a health issue alone now…. It is an issue of their human rights also as they are not getting a suitable environment which they need. They have the right to live like any other person.” They are also the citizen of this country and they have the right to live with dignity. Their rights to live have been violated by the authorities itself, he said at a seminar here. Sikri’s comments come two days after a bench comprising him and Justice S Abdul Nazeer said chaining people with mental illness was violative of their rights under Article 21 of the Constitution. It made the observations while hearing public interest litigation (PIL) about persons with mental illness being chained in the faith-based mental asylum in UP’s Badaun district in violation of the provisions of the Mental Health Care Act, 2017. The district administration freed 22 people on Saturday and handed them over to their family members. Speaking at the seminar, Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain said a major reason nowadays to fall sick was a mental disorder. “Mental illness’ issue is that a particular person thinks that only I have done for the society. If a person is studying in eminent institutes like (the) IIT, then, he/she should not forget the contribution of the society. Now, the time has come when we need to give back at least something to the society.” “We were slaves for so many years and, now, we do not believe in equality. Either we can work under someone or can make someone to work under us,” he said. “Around 80-per cent people fall sick due to mental disorder and rest 20 per cent are because of other problems. The major issue of the mental disorder is the greed and that is the area where we need to work,” Jain said. The minister also pointed out to the growing problem of people spending their major time on social media instead of interacting with each other in person. The two-day was organised at the India International Centre by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLASA), Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS), Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Science (IHBAS) and the State Mental Health Authority.

Justice AK Sikri raises concern on rights of mentally-ill persons; here’s what SC judge says

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