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A 46-year-old Sri Lankan woman has become the third woman to enter Sabarimala temple and offer prayers.&nbsp;

The Lankan woman entered the temple a day after Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple.&nbsp;

The duo did not face any trouble from the devotees during the course of their journey towards the temple.

According to ANI, the Lankan woman had reportedly informed Police that she had reached menopause and presented a medical certificate.

''I went up to the holy steps, but I was not allowed to go further. I had a medical certificate also,'' she reportedly said.

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46-year-old Srilankan woman who came to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a>: I went up to the holy steps, but I was not allowed to go further. I had a medical certificate also.
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&nbsp;

A 46-year-old Sri Lankan woman has become the third woman to enter Sabarimala temple and offer prayers. The Lankan woman entered the temple a day after Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple.

A 46-year-old Sri Lankan woman has become the third woman to enter Sabarimala temple and offer prayers. The Lankan woman entered the temple a day after Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple. The duo did not face any trouble from the devotees during the course of their journey towards the temple. According to ANI, the Lankan woman had reportedly informed Police that she had reached menopause and presented a medical certificate. ''I went up to the holy steps, but I was not allowed to go further. I had a medical certificate also,'' she reportedly said. 46-year-old Srilankan woman who came to #SabarimalaTemple: I went up to the holy steps, but I was not allowed to go further. I had a medical certificate also. — ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2019 ×

Now, 46-year-old Sri Lankan woman enters Sabarimala temple, offers prayers 

President Donald Trump Thursday spoke with family members and law enforcement colleagues of Indian-origin police officer Ronil "Ron" Singh who was killed allegedly by an illegal immigrant last week in the US state of California, the White House said.

Corporal Singh, 33, of the Newman Police Department was shot and killed during a traffic stop just before 1:00 AM (local time) on December 26.

"This afternoon, President Trump spoke with the family and law enforcement colleagues of fallen Newman, California, police officer Ronald "Ron" Singh," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011.

"The President praised officer Singh's service to his fellow citizens, offered condolences, and commended law enforcement's rapid investigation, response, and apprehension of the suspect," Sanders said.

"Included in the President's calls were Corporal Singh's wife, Amanika 'Mika' Chand-Singh; Newman, California Police Chief Randy Richardson, and Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County, California," she said.

The Californian police have arrested an illegal immigrant from Mexico, identified as 33-year-old Gustavo Perez Arriaga, on charges of killing Singh. 
&nbsp;

President Donald Trump Thursday spoke with family members and law enforcement colleagues of Indian-origin police officer Ronil "Ron" Singh who was killed allegedly by an illegal immigrant last week in the US state of California, the White House said.

President Donald Trump Thursday spoke with family members and law enforcement colleagues of Indian-origin police officer Ronil "Ron" Singh who was killed allegedly by an illegal immigrant last week in the US state of California, the White House said. Corporal Singh, 33, of the Newman Police Department was shot and killed during a traffic stop just before 1:00 AM (local time) on December 26. "This afternoon, President Trump spoke with the family and law enforcement colleagues of fallen Newman, California, police officer Ronald "Ron" Singh," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011. "The President praised officer Singh's service to his fellow citizens, offered condolences, and commended law enforcement's rapid investigation, response, and apprehension of the suspect," Sanders said. "Included in the President's calls were Corporal Singh's wife, Amanika 'Mika' Chand-Singh; Newman, California Police Chief Randy Richardson, and Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County, California," she said. The Californian police have arrested an illegal immigrant from Mexico, identified as 33-year-old Gustavo Perez Arriaga, on charges of killing Singh.

Trump speaks with family members of Indian-origin cop shot dead in California 

The Odisha government has put seven districts on alert in view of cyclonic activities in the South China Sea.

In this regard, the Revenue and Disaster management department of the Odisha government issued an advisory on Thursday.

"A cyclonic storm Pabuk lay centered at 0830 hours IST of 03rd January 2019 over South China Sea near latitude 6.0°N and longitude 105.0° E, about 1500 km east-southeast of Port Blair. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and emerge into Andaman sea around the forenoon of 05th January 2019. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and cross Andaman islands around evening/night of 06th January. Thereafter, it is very likely to move north-northwestwards and then recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken further during 7th -8th January, 2019," the advisory read.

The Special Relief Commissioner asked collectors of seven districts including, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Puri, Ganjam and Khurda to stay alert and monitor the situation.

There is no specific warning that has been issued for fishermen till now, however, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised fishermen not to venture into the deep sea.&nbsp;

There is no specific warning that has been issued for fishermen till now, however, the IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the deep sea.

The Odisha government has put seven districts on alert in view of cyclonic activities in the South China Sea. In this regard, the Revenue and Disaster management department of the Odisha government issued an advisory on Thursday. "A cyclonic storm Pabuk lay centered at 0830 hours IST of 03rd January 2019 over South China Sea near latitude 6.0°N and longitude 105.0° E, about 1500 km east-southeast of Port Blair. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and emerge into Andaman sea around the forenoon of 05th January 2019. Thereafter, it is very likely to move northwestwards and cross Andaman islands around evening/night of 06th January. Thereafter, it is very likely to move north-northwestwards and then recurve northeastwards towards Myanmar coast and weaken further during 7th -8th January, 2019," the advisory read. The Special Relief Commissioner asked collectors of seven districts including, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Puri, Ganjam and Khurda to stay alert and monitor the situation. There is no specific warning that has been issued for fishermen till now, however, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised fishermen not to venture into the deep sea.

Cyclone 'Pabuk': 7 districts in Odisha on alert

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-temple-stand-off-sri-lankan-women-enters-sabarimala-188143">entry of two women in menstrual age</a> into the Sabarimala temple.

Nair, who had served as Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, said the LDF government should focus on rebuilding Kerala after the devastating floods last year that left a trail of destruction on a massive scale.

"The government is totally wasting its energy on a totally trivial issue (<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/confusion-over-lankan-womans-entry-into-sabarimala-188210">Sabarimala</a>)," he told PTI. "Lot of damages have happened in Kerala following the flood.

Reconstruction and rehabilitation activities are progressing at a snail's pace. They should instead attend to those things."

"This an act of cowardice," Nair said on the entry into the Lord Ayyappa shrine two days ago by two women in their 40s, and termed it as "government-sponsored."

"Anybody can do that. It's all done in the midnight.. The operation was done in the darkness," he said.

"Whatever peaceful atmosphere created after initial trouble (following the Supreme Court judgement allowing women of all age group to enter the remple), that's spoiled now".

On the practice of barring women of menstruating age from entering the Ayyappa temple, he said "It's a practice, tradition of the people and devotees who are there and one has to respect that. I don't think there is any constitutionality involved in that."

"If you look at Sikh or Muslims or Christians, they have their own practices. Is the Court or Government coming and interfering in that? And why is Hindu community alone being targetted? It's a political agenda," Nair said.

On his association with the BJP, Nair said he has been working for the party for a long time but was formally welcomed into its fold by BJP President Amit Shah during a visit to Kerala last year.

"I am not taking an active role in the party mechanism, but I will be providing intellectual support," he said, adding, he is trying to draw up a "developmental agenda" for Kerala.

"That's something half completed, soon making a full document of that (development agenda)," he added.

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the entry of two women in menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple.

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the entry of two women in menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple. Nair, who had served as Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, said the LDF government should focus on rebuilding Kerala after the devastating floods last year that left a trail of destruction on a massive scale. "The government is totally wasting its energy on a totally trivial issue (Sabarimala)," he told PTI. "Lot of damages have happened in Kerala following the flood. Reconstruction and rehabilitation activities are progressing at a snail's pace. They should instead attend to those things." "This an act of cowardice," Nair said on the entry into the Lord Ayyappa shrine two days ago by two women in their 40s, and termed it as "government-sponsored." "Anybody can do that. It's all done in the midnight.. The operation was done in the darkness," he said. "Whatever peaceful atmosphere created after initial trouble (following the Supreme Court judgement allowing women of all age group to enter the remple), that's spoiled now". On the practice of barring women of menstruating age from entering the Ayyappa temple, he said "It's a practice, tradition of the people and devotees who are there and one has to respect that. I don't think there is any constitutionality involved in that." "If you look at Sikh or Muslims or Christians, they have their own practices. Is the Court or Government coming and interfering in that? And why is Hindu community alone being targetted? It's a political agenda," Nair said. On his association with the BJP, Nair said he has been working for the party for a long time but was formally welcomed into its fold by BJP President Amit Shah during a visit to Kerala last year. "I am not taking an active role in the party mechanism, but I will be providing intellectual support," he said, adding, he is trying to draw up a "developmental agenda" for Kerala. "That's something half completed, soon making a full document of that (development agenda)," he added.

Temple entry under cover of darkness an 'act of cowardice': Former ISRO chairman G Madhavan Nair

The Supreme Court on Friday rejected the plea of Syed Shahid Yousuf, son of Hizbul-Mujahideen founder and a 'specially designated global terrorist' Syed Salahuddin, challenging the Delhi High Court order dismissing his bail petition in a terror funding case.

The top court said that once the trial court had granted extension of time to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to complete the investigation in the case, the accused was not entitled to statutory bail.

A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta said the trial court and the Delhi High Court have applied their mind and there was no illegality in the decision.

Counsel for Yousuf argued that the trial court had erred in allowing the NIA application to extend the time up to 180 days to complete investigation and remanding the accused in judicial custody.

"Under the provisions of law, it cannot be done. The extension of time till 180 days can only be done in a piecemeal manner and not in one shot," the counsel argued.

The bench said however that it all depends on the nature of case and its ramification.

The counsel failed to impress the bench which said that there are several judgements in this regard and it appears from the trial court judgement that the judge has applied his mind.

On May 31 last year, the Delhi High Court had dismissed his bail plea and had upheld the trial court order dismissing his statutory bail petition.&nbsp;

42-year-old Yousuf was posted as agricultural assistant in Budgam of central Kashmir when he was arrested by the NIA on October 24, 2017. The bail plea of Yousuf, currently in judicial custody, was dismissed by the trial court here on March 7 last year.

Yousuf in his plea had said he was entitled to statutory bail and the special court had erred in denying him the relief in its order. He had also challenged the special court's order of February 5 last year allowing the NIA's plea for extension of time up to 180 days to complete investigation and remanding the accused to judicial custody.

The NIA had earlier alleged that the accused had links with proscribed terrorist organisations like Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.&nbsp;

It had alleged that the case was registered on the basis of information about funds from Pakistan being sent to Jammu and Kashmir through hawala channels via Delhi to spread terrorism.

The NIA had in 2011 arrested several persons, including Ghulam Mohd Bhat with Rs 21.2 lakh, and alleged that Yousuf was "one of the several Indian contacts of Bhat" who had been in touch with him for receiving money transfer codes.

It had alleged that Yousuf's involvement was found in collecting funds from a terrorist outfit in Saudi Arabia and from other accused on directions of his father Mohd Yousuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin, the self-styled supreme commander of the Hizb-Ul-Mujahideen.

Salahuddin was declared a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the US Department of State in June last year.

The NIA has claimed that Yousuf has received a total of nearly Rs 4.5 lakh through eight international wire transfers. It had also registered two other cases related to terror funding -- one in November 2011 and the other in May 2017. It had filed a charge sheet against 10 people including Salahuddin in the April 2011 case.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Friday rejected the plea of Syed Shahid Yousuf, son of Hizbul-Mujahideen founder and a 'specially designated global terrorist' Syed Salahuddin, challenging the Delhi High Court order dismissing his bail petition in a terror funding case.

The Supreme Court on Friday rejected the plea of Syed Shahid Yousuf, son of Hizbul-Mujahideen founder and a 'specially designated global terrorist' Syed Salahuddin, challenging the Delhi High Court order dismissing his bail petition in a terror funding case. The top court said that once the trial court had granted extension of time to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to complete the investigation in the case, the accused was not entitled to statutory bail. A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta said the trial court and the Delhi High Court have applied their mind and there was no illegality in the decision. Counsel for Yousuf argued that the trial court had erred in allowing the NIA application to extend the time up to 180 days to complete investigation and remanding the accused in judicial custody. "Under the provisions of law, it cannot be done. The extension of time till 180 days can only be done in a piecemeal manner and not in one shot," the counsel argued. The bench said however that it all depends on the nature of case and its ramification. The counsel failed to impress the bench which said that there are several judgements in this regard and it appears from the trial court judgement that the judge has applied his mind. On May 31 last year, the Delhi High Court had dismissed his bail plea and had upheld the trial court order dismissing his statutory bail petition. 42-year-old Yousuf was posted as agricultural assistant in Budgam of central Kashmir when he was arrested by the NIA on October 24, 2017. The bail plea of Yousuf, currently in judicial custody, was dismissed by the trial court here on March 7 last year. Yousuf in his plea had said he was entitled to statutory bail and the special court had erred in denying him the relief in its order. He had also challenged the special court's order of February 5 last year allowing the NIA's plea for extension of time up to 180 days to complete investigation and remanding the accused to judicial custody. The NIA had earlier alleged that the accused had links with proscribed terrorist organisations like Hizb-ul-Mujahideen. It had alleged that the case was registered on the basis of information about funds from Pakistan being sent to Jammu and Kashmir through hawala channels via Delhi to spread terrorism. The NIA had in 2011 arrested several persons, including Ghulam Mohd Bhat with Rs 21.2 lakh, and alleged that Yousuf was "one of the several Indian contacts of Bhat" who had been in touch with him for receiving money transfer codes. It had alleged that Yousuf's involvement was found in collecting funds from a terrorist outfit in Saudi Arabia and from other accused on directions of his father Mohd Yousuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin, the self-styled supreme commander of the Hizb-Ul-Mujahideen. Salahuddin was declared a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the US Department of State in June last year. The NIA has claimed that Yousuf has received a total of nearly Rs 4.5 lakh through eight international wire transfers. It had also registered two other cases related to terror funding -- one in November 2011 and the other in May 2017. It had filed a charge sheet against 10 people including Salahuddin in the April 2011 case.

Terror funding: Supreme Court rejects plea of Hizbul Chief Salahuddin's son

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafael-deal-was-done-with-national-security-as-a-priority-nirmala-sitharaman-188252">Rafale deal was done with national security as a priority, says Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament</a>

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman&nbsp;defended the government's move&nbsp;to buy Rafale&nbsp;fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-work-with-india-to-enhance-communication-in-international-affairs-china-188263">Willing to work with India to enhance communication in international affairs: China</a>

China on Friday said "practical" cooperation with India is on a fast track since the last year's Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping and expressed readiness to work with New Delhi to uphold the rights of the two countries at a time of global uncertainty.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-tropical-storm-pabuk-makes-landfall-in-southern-thailand-1-dead-188271">Watch: Tropical storm Pabuk makes landfall in southern Thailand; 1 dead</a>

Tropical storm Pabuk made landfall in Pak Phanang district of Nakhon&nbsp;Si Thammarat province accompanied by torrential downpours and strong winds in 15 provinces in Thailand's southern coast.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/data-of-politicians-leaked-including-of-chancellor-merkel-german-government-188289">Data of politicians leaked, including of Chancellor Merkel: German government</a>

Private data stolen from hundreds of German politicians, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, have been released online, the government said Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/penalty-of-rs-58-lakh-on-telecom-service-providers-for-call-drop-telecom-minister-manoj-sinha-188282">Penalty</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/penalty-of-rs-58-lakh-on-telecom-service-providers-for-call-drop-telecom-minister-manoj-sinha-188282"> of Rs 58 lakh on telecom service providers for call drop: Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha</a>

The government has initiated steps to check call drops and penalty of Rs 58 lakh crore was imposed on telecom service providers, including Idea and BSNL, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in Rajya Sabha on Friday.

Rafale deal was done with national security as a priority, says Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

Rafale deal was done with national security as a priority, says Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority. Willing to work with India to enhance communication in international affairs: China China on Friday said "practical" cooperation with India is on a fast track since the last year's Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping and expressed readiness to work with New Delhi to uphold the rights of the two countries at a time of global uncertainty. Watch: Tropical storm Pabuk makes landfall in southern Thailand; 1 dead Tropical storm Pabuk made landfall in Pak Phanang district of Nakhon Si Thammarat province accompanied by torrential downpours and strong winds in 15 provinces in Thailand's southern coast. Data of politicians leaked, including of Chancellor Merkel: German government Private data stolen from hundreds of German politicians, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, have been released online, the government said Friday. Penalty of Rs 58 lakh on telecom service providers for call drop: Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha The government has initiated steps to check call drops and penalty of Rs 58 lakh crore was imposed on telecom service providers, including Idea and BSNL, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in Rajya Sabha on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Seven people were killed after an LPG cylinder blast in a building, where work-related to ceiling fans was being carried out, in West Delhi's Sudarshan Park triggered a collapse bringing a portion of the structure down, police said.

The fire department received a call about the collapse at around 8.48 pm Thursday and eight fire tenders, along with ambulances, were rushed to the spot, they said.

"The incident took place in Sudarshan Park area after an LPG cylinder blast. Seven people have died. The building comprises ground and the first floors," Monika Bhardwaj, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), said.

Police said around 15 people were rescued and shifted to Acharya Bhikshu hospital. Of them, seven died and four people, who were critical, have been shifted to Safdarjung hospital. A few more persons are feared trapped under the debris, they said.

The structure is located in a congested area and it was being used for painting ceiling fans.

The owner of the "factory" was among the injured, police said. 
Manish, who witnessed the tragedy unfold and also helped the team with rescue operations, said the building suffered partial damage.

"Fifteen persons were rescued and rushed to Acharya Bhikshu hospital in front of me. Later, we got to know that six people including a five-year-old child died," he said.

A resident of the locality, Surender Jain, said he got to know about the incident through media reports.

"I was shocked to see the visuals on TV. I rushed to check the situation. Three years ago, a similar incident had occurred in the nearby locality. It's a big market where work related to fans is carried out," he said.

A case has been registered against the owner of the factory under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the matter is being probed, the DCP said.

Along with police and a Delhi Fire Service team, an NDRF team is also at the spot carrying out rescue operations in full swing, police said.&nbsp;

Seven people were killed after an LPG cylinder blast in a building, where work-related to ceiling fans was being carried out, in West Delhi's Sudarshan Park triggered a collapse bringing a portion of the structure down, police said.

Seven people were killed after an LPG cylinder blast in a building, where work-related to ceiling fans was being carried out, in West Delhi's Sudarshan Park triggered a collapse bringing a portion of the structure down, police said. The fire department received a call about the collapse at around 8.48 pm Thursday and eight fire tenders, along with ambulances, were rushed to the spot, they said. "The incident took place in Sudarshan Park area after an LPG cylinder blast. Seven people have died. The building comprises ground and the first floors," Monika Bhardwaj, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), said. Police said around 15 people were rescued and shifted to Acharya Bhikshu hospital. Of them, seven died and four people, who were critical, have been shifted to Safdarjung hospital. A few more persons are feared trapped under the debris, they said. The structure is located in a congested area and it was being used for painting ceiling fans. The owner of the "factory" was among the injured, police said. Manish, who witnessed the tragedy unfold and also helped the team with rescue operations, said the building suffered partial damage. "Fifteen persons were rescued and rushed to Acharya Bhikshu hospital in front of me. Later, we got to know that six people including a five-year-old child died," he said. A resident of the locality, Surender Jain, said he got to know about the incident through media reports. "I was shocked to see the visuals on TV. I rushed to check the situation. Three years ago, a similar incident had occurred in the nearby locality. It's a big market where work related to fans is carried out," he said. A case has been registered against the owner of the factory under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the matter is being probed, the DCP said. Along with police and a Delhi Fire Service team, an NDRF team is also at the spot carrying out rescue operations in full swing, police said.

7 dead as LPG blast triggers building collapse in Delhi

Launching the first phase of the poll campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/opinion-modi-back-in-a-humble-avatar-187769">Prime Minister Modi</a>&nbsp;addressed a rally at Assam's Cachar district on Friday.

In the first, Vijay Sankalp Samavesh Rally, PM Modi assured the people of Assam that no genuine citizen will be left out of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nrc-will-be-limited-to-assam-for-now-hansraj-ahir-185187">NRC&nbsp;(National Register of Citizens)</a> and hoped that the citizenship bill will soon get Parliament's nod.

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PM Modi addressing a rally in Silchar, Assam: Aapko fir se bharosa deta hoon, koi bhi bharatiya nagrik National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) mein se nahi chootega. <a href="https://t.co/fq9IT0vei5">pic.twitter.com/fq9IT0vei5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1081130764773732352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Aapko fir se bharosa deta hoon, koi bhi bharatiya nagrik National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) mein se nahi chootega".

"I am aware of the problems and difficulties faced by many during the NRC process but I assure you that no injustice will be done to any genuine Indian citizens," he added.

Calling the Citizenship Amendment Bill, a penance against the injustice done in the past, he also assured that his government was working to get the Citizen Amendment Bill passed in Parliament.

"Citizenship bill not for anyone's benefit, but a penance against injustice done in past; hope it will be passed soon in Parliament, " PM Modi said.

"Our government is moving ahead with Citizenship (Amendment) Bill; it is linked with emotions and related to peoples' lives," he added.

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PM Modi addressing a rally in Silchar, Assam: Our govt is also working to get the Citizen Amendment Bill passed in the Parliament. <a href="https://t.co/GF2WdSBlBD">pic.twitter.com/GF2WdSBlBD</a>
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PM Modi further said that the government had decided to implement Clause 6 of Assam Accord to safeguard social, cultural and linguistic identity of the state.

"I am indebted to the people of Assam for voting for the BJP in the recent panchayat elections and I am committed to repay this debt by ensuring the development of the state," he said.

Recalling his inauguration of the country's longest rail-cum-road bridge at Bogibeel in upper Assam on December 25, Modi said "I am fortunate to be with the people of Assam for the second time in 10 days. The Barak and Brahmaputra valleys are a source of inspiration not only for the state but also for the country", Modi said.

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Manipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates several development projects and dedicates 400kV double circuit Silchar-Imphal line, in Imphal. Chief Minister N Biren Singh also present. <a href="https://t.co/aDWqjNeqTf">pic.twitter.com/aDWqjNeqTf</a>
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The BJP and its allies is setting the target to win 21 out of the 25 parliamentary seats in eight states in the region and in Assam the party hopes to win at least 11 of the 14 seats.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, BJP had made massive in roads in Assam winning seven of its 14 parliamentary seats and in the 2016 assembly polls the party emerged as the single largest party with 61 seats while its alliance partners AGP and BPF had won 14 and 12 seats respectively.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Launching the first phase of the poll campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Modi addressed a rally at Assam's Cachar district on Friday. In the first, Vijay Sankalp Samavesh Rally, PM Modi assured the people of Assam that no genuine citizen will be left out of the NRC (National Register of Citizens) and hoped that the citizenship bill will soon get Parliament's nod.

Launching the first phase of the poll campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Modi addressed a rally at Assam's Cachar district on Friday. In the first, Vijay Sankalp Samavesh Rally, PM Modi assured the people of Assam that no genuine citizen will be left out of the NRC (National Register of Citizens) and hoped that the citizenship bill will soon get Parliament's nod. PM Modi addressing a rally in Silchar, Assam: Aapko fir se bharosa deta hoon, koi bhi bharatiya nagrik National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) mein se nahi chootega. pic.twitter.com/fq9IT0vei5 — ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2019 × "Aapko fir se bharosa deta hoon, koi bhi bharatiya nagrik National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) mein se nahi chootega". "I am aware of the problems and difficulties faced by many during the NRC process but I assure you that no injustice will be done to any genuine Indian citizens," he added. Calling the Citizenship Amendment Bill, a penance against the injustice done in the past, he also assured that his government was working to get the Citizen Amendment Bill passed in Parliament. "Citizenship bill not for anyone's benefit, but a penance against injustice done in past; hope it will be passed soon in Parliament, " PM Modi said. "Our government is moving ahead with Citizenship (Amendment) Bill; it is linked with emotions and related to peoples' lives," he added. PM Modi addressing a rally in Silchar, Assam: Our govt is also working to get the Citizen Amendment Bill passed in the Parliament. pic.twitter.com/GF2WdSBlBD — ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2019 × PM Modi further said that the government had decided to implement Clause 6 of Assam Accord to safeguard social, cultural and linguistic identity of the state. "I am indebted to the people of Assam for voting for the BJP in the recent panchayat elections and I am committed to repay this debt by ensuring the development of the state," he said. Recalling his inauguration of the country's longest rail-cum-road bridge at Bogibeel in upper Assam on December 25, Modi said "I am fortunate to be with the people of Assam for the second time in 10 days. The Barak and Brahmaputra valleys are a source of inspiration not only for the state but also for the country", Modi said. Manipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates several development projects and dedicates 400kV double circuit Silchar-Imphal line, in Imphal. Chief Minister N Biren Singh also present. pic.twitter.com/aDWqjNeqTf — ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2019 × The BJP and its allies is setting the target to win 21 out of the 25 parliamentary seats in eight states in the region and in Assam the party hopes to win at least 11 of the 14 seats. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, BJP had made massive in roads in Assam winning seven of its 14 parliamentary seats and in the 2016 assembly polls the party emerged as the single largest party with 61 seats while its alliance partners AGP and BPF had won 14 and 12 seats respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

No genuine citizen will be left out of NRC: PM Modi at rally in Assam

Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Lalu Prasad, on Thursday, announced out of turn that his eldest sister Misa Bharti will contest the Lok Sabha election from Pataliputra seat.

Tej Pratap also held a road show in parts of the seat that was carved out in the 2008 delimitation and is seen as a prestige issue for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) as both Lalu Prasad and Bharti have unsuccessfully contested from there.&nbsp;

Tej Pratap's announcement at his daily 'Janata Durbar' held at the RJD headquarters is likely to ruffle the feathers of the Grand Alliance partners which included Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP).

The statement also gains significance as none of the political parties, including the RJD, have come out with their lists of candidates for the general elections yet.

Responding to a query on the wish expressed by Bhai Virendra, the party's MLA from Maner which falls under Pataliputra, to contest the parliamentary seat, Tej Pratap said: "What stature does he have? None but Misa didi will contest the seat."

"The people of Pataliputra want Misa didi. Voters cast their votes in the name of Lalu Prasad. Neither Bhai Virendra nor I can do anything about it," Yadav told reporters.

Bhai Virendra, who is also the state spokesperson of the party and considered to be close to Tejashwi, had expressed his desire to contest from the seat considering Bharti is at present a member of the Rajya Sabha.

In the roadshow, which left people bemused, the mercurial son of Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi waved at the crowds from inside an open jeep.

Waving party flags and shouting slogans supporting Bharti, scores of Tej Pratap's supporters followed him on foot, horses and in cars accompanied by a band.

The development comes in the backdrop of murmurs that a struggle for supremacy in the RJD is on between Tej Pratap, believed to be close to his sister, and younger brother Tejashwi.

The former deputy chief minister of the state, Tejashwi has emerged as the RJD's de facto leader in the absence of Lalu Prasad who has been away from active politics for about a year on account of convictions in several fodder scam cases.&nbsp;

He is the leader of opposition in the state assembly and RJDs chief ministerial candidate for the next assembly polls.

Although Tej Pratap and Bharti have repeatedly denied reports of any rift in the family, speculations were rife about the elder sibling's feeling of having been slighted under the shadow of the younger one.

The Pataliputra seat, which comprises rural areas of Patna district, is considered prestigious for the 'first family' of Bihar as in 2009 Lalu Prasad was defeated by his former protege Ranjan Yadav who fought as a JD(U) candidate.

Years later, Bharti had made an unsuccessful poll debut from the seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls as she lost to Bharatiya Janata Party's Ram Kripal Yadav, another former aide of her father.

Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Lalu Prasad, on Thursday, announced out of turn that his eldest sister Misa Bharti will contest the Lok Sabha election from Pataliputra seat.

Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Lalu Prasad, on Thursday, announced out of turn that his eldest sister Misa Bharti will contest the Lok Sabha election from Pataliputra seat. Tej Pratap also held a road show in parts of the seat that was carved out in the 2008 delimitation and is seen as a prestige issue for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) as both Lalu Prasad and Bharti have unsuccessfully contested from there. Tej Pratap's announcement at his daily 'Janata Durbar' held at the RJD headquarters is likely to ruffle the feathers of the Grand Alliance partners which included Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP). The statement also gains significance as none of the political parties, including the RJD, have come out with their lists of candidates for the general elections yet. Responding to a query on the wish expressed by Bhai Virendra, the party's MLA from Maner which falls under Pataliputra, to contest the parliamentary seat, Tej Pratap said: "What stature does he have? None but Misa didi will contest the seat." "The people of Pataliputra want Misa didi. Voters cast their votes in the name of Lalu Prasad. Neither Bhai Virendra nor I can do anything about it," Yadav told reporters. Bhai Virendra, who is also the state spokesperson of the party and considered to be close to Tejashwi, had expressed his desire to contest from the seat considering Bharti is at present a member of the Rajya Sabha. In the roadshow, which left people bemused, the mercurial son of Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi waved at the crowds from inside an open jeep. Waving party flags and shouting slogans supporting Bharti, scores of Tej Pratap's supporters followed him on foot, horses and in cars accompanied by a band. The development comes in the backdrop of murmurs that a struggle for supremacy in the RJD is on between Tej Pratap, believed to be close to his sister, and younger brother Tejashwi. The former deputy chief minister of the state, Tejashwi has emerged as the RJD's de facto leader in the absence of Lalu Prasad who has been away from active politics for about a year on account of convictions in several fodder scam cases. He is the leader of opposition in the state assembly and RJDs chief ministerial candidate for the next assembly polls. Although Tej Pratap and Bharti have repeatedly denied reports of any rift in the family, speculations were rife about the elder sibling's feeling of having been slighted under the shadow of the younger one. The Pataliputra seat, which comprises rural areas of Patna district, is considered prestigious for the 'first family' of Bihar as in 2009 Lalu Prasad was defeated by his former protege Ranjan Yadav who fought as a JD(U) candidate. Years later, Bharti had made an unsuccessful poll debut from the seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls as she lost to Bharatiya Janata Party's Ram Kripal Yadav, another former aide of her father.

Misa Bharti will contest from Pataliputra Lok Sabha seat: Tej Pratap Yadav

The Congress on Friday reached out to the people displaced from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-anti-pak-protests-continue-in-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-35369">Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK)</a>, who were on an indefinite chain dharna in Jammu since December 27 demanding implementation of '2014 package', and urged the Centre to hold talks with them.

The displaced people from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-you-captured-our-kashmir-now-our-plots-pok-kashmiris-to-pakistan-army-142355">PoK</a> have been on a chain hunger strike here against the state and central governments for not "fulfilling" their various demands including 2014 package approved by the Jammu and Kashmir cabinet in October 2014.

"Our Congress-NC government had made recommendations in 2014 by recommending a package for the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-pakistan-protests-across-pok-to-mark-1947-invasion-22724"> PoK </a>displaced persons involving around Rs 9,096 crore. Every family was to be given Rs 25 lakh per family and reservation of their children in professional colleges as per Kashmir migrants. But nothing has been done", J&amp;K senior vice president of Congress and former Minister Sham Lal Sharma told reporters in Jammu.

On the contrary, the Centre announced a package of Rs 2,000 crore which too was not implemented in letter and spirit, Sharma claimed.

"Government of India (GoI) can talk to militants and those raising anti-India slogans and can release militants and stonepelters, but not to us, who are patriotic Indians to core", Sharma said.

The Congress leader said Government of India should talk to them and urge the Prime Minister to talk to them to fulfil their demands.

The main demand of the PoK displaced persons is the implementation of the 2014 package.

The other demands include grant of facilities to all displaced at par with valley migrants, reservation of eight seats for PoK DPs in Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly, permission to visit their religious places in PoK, return of their cash deposits lying with J&amp;K Bank, Mirpur, with interest and bringing 5,300 PoK DP families living outside the state within the ambit of the 2014 package.

Rajiv Chuni, chairman of SOS International, an organization representing the PoK displaced persons (DP), also presented a memorandum of their demands to Sharma.&nbsp;

The Congress on Friday reached out to the people displaced from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), who were on an indefinite chain dharna in Jammu since December 27 demanding implementation of '2014 package', and urged the Centre to hold talks with them.

The Congress on Friday reached out to the people displaced from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), who were on an indefinite chain dharna in Jammu since December 27 demanding implementation of '2014 package', and urged the Centre to hold talks with them. The displaced people from PoK have been on a chain hunger strike here against the state and central governments for not "fulfilling" their various demands including 2014 package approved by the Jammu and Kashmir cabinet in October 2014. "Our Congress-NC government had made recommendations in 2014 by recommending a package for the PoK displaced persons involving around Rs 9,096 crore. Every family was to be given Rs 25 lakh per family and reservation of their children in professional colleges as per Kashmir migrants. But nothing has been done", J&K senior vice president of Congress and former Minister Sham Lal Sharma told reporters in Jammu. On the contrary, the Centre announced a package of Rs 2,000 crore which too was not implemented in letter and spirit, Sharma claimed. "Government of India (GoI) can talk to militants and those raising anti-India slogans and can release militants and stonepelters, but not to us, who are patriotic Indians to core", Sharma said. The Congress leader said Government of India should talk to them and urge the Prime Minister to talk to them to fulfil their demands. The main demand of the PoK displaced persons is the implementation of the 2014 package. The other demands include grant of facilities to all displaced at par with valley migrants, reservation of eight seats for PoK DPs in Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly, permission to visit their religious places in PoK, return of their cash deposits lying with J&K Bank, Mirpur, with interest and bringing 5,300 PoK DP families living outside the state within the ambit of the 2014 package. Rajiv Chuni, chairman of SOS International, an organization representing the PoK displaced persons (DP), also presented a memorandum of their demands to Sharma.

Congress demands implementation of 2014 package for people displaced from PoK

Afghanistan's National Security Advisor (NSA) <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-trumps-jibe-india-says-developmental-assistance-transforming-afghanistan-188038">Hamdullah Mohib on Friday met India's</a> NSA Ajit Doval at Hyderabad house. Mohib's visit is the first high-level engagement of the Afghan government with&nbsp;India.&nbsp;

The NSAs meeting comes just a day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-neighbours-fear-refugee-crisis-if-us-pulls-out-187705">US president Donald Trump mocked</a> Prime Minister Modi and India's aid to Afghanistan.

He said, “I could give you an example where I get along very well with India and Prime Minister Modi. But he is constantly telling me, he built a library in Afghanistan. Library! That’s like five hours of what we spend (in Afghanistan). And he (Modi) tells me. He is very smart. We are supposed to say, oh thank you for the library. Don’t know who’s using it (the library) in Afghanistan. But it’s one of those things. I don’t like being taken advantage of."

India slammed the comments with top government sources telling WION, "India firmly believes in the critical role that developmental assistance can play in transforming human lives." New Delhi also rejected any American demand for Indian troops on the ground saying it "does not send its armed forces abroad except under the specific mandate of UN Peacekeeping Operations."

The meet also happens when the situation in Afghanistan is rapidly evolving with Russia, Iran, Pakistan and US all engaged in talks with the Taliban.

The US media has been reporting that US may withdraw 7,000 troops from Afghanistan though it has not been confirmed by the Pentagon. Top Indian government sources last week told WION that New Delhi is "closely watching" recent developments in Afghanistan regarding the peace initiatives and does not find any reason to be concerned about changes in US policy on Afghanistan.

India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Last year India had participated in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level sending two former diplomats - Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan at the non-official level at the Moscow talks.&nbsp;

Next week former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and United State's special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad will visit India for Raisina Dialogue.

This will be the first official visit by Zalmay to India in his capacity as the special representative of US for Afghanistan and he will be meeting the Indian leadership.

Afghanistan's National Security Advisor (NSA) Hamdullah Mohib on Friday met India's NSA Ajit Doval at Hyderabad house. Mohib's visit is the first high-level engagement of the Afghan government with India.

Afghanistan's National Security Advisor (NSA) Hamdullah Mohib on Friday met India's NSA Ajit Doval at Hyderabad house. Mohib's visit is the first high-level engagement of the Afghan government with India. The NSAs meeting comes just a day after US president Donald Trump mocked Prime Minister Modi and India's aid to Afghanistan. He said, “I could give you an example where I get along very well with India and Prime Minister Modi. But he is constantly telling me, he built a library in Afghanistan. Library! That’s like five hours of what we spend (in Afghanistan). And he (Modi) tells me. He is very smart. We are supposed to say, oh thank you for the library. Don’t know who’s using it (the library) in Afghanistan. But it’s one of those things. I don’t like being taken advantage of." India slammed the comments with top government sources telling WION, "India firmly believes in the critical role that developmental assistance can play in transforming human lives." New Delhi also rejected any American demand for Indian troops on the ground saying it "does not send its armed forces abroad except under the specific mandate of UN Peacekeeping Operations." The meet also happens when the situation in Afghanistan is rapidly evolving with Russia, Iran, Pakistan and US all engaged in talks with the Taliban. The US media has been reporting that US may withdraw 7,000 troops from Afghanistan though it has not been confirmed by the Pentagon. Top Indian government sources last week told WION that New Delhi is "closely watching" recent developments in Afghanistan regarding the peace initiatives and does not find any reason to be concerned about changes in US policy on Afghanistan. India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan. Last year India had participated in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level sending two former diplomats - Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan at the non-official level at the Moscow talks. Next week former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and United State's special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad will visit India for Raisina Dialogue. This will be the first official visit by Zalmay to India in his capacity as the special representative of US for Afghanistan and he will be meeting the Indian leadership.

Afghanistan's NSA Hamdullah Mohib meets India's NSA Ajit Doval in Delhi

The government has initiated steps to check call drops and penalty of Rs 58 lakh crore was imposed on telecom service providers, including Idea and BSNL, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in Rajya Sabha on Friday.

During the Question Hour, he said a penalty of Rs four lakh was imposed on BSNL in the June quarter while Rs 12 lakh was slapped on Idea during the same quarter.

Giving details of financial disincentives imposed by TRAI on non-complaint provider against prescribed benchmarks for drop call rate, he said during the March quarter, Rs 3 lakh penalty was imposed on BSNL, Rs 10.5 lakh on Idea, Rs 22.5 lakh on Tata and Rs 6 lakh on Telenor.

He said the situation has improved due to augmenting of telecommunication infrastructure and the BTS count has been increased to 20 lakh in four years from eight lakh in 2014.

A mobile tower can house several base stations (BTS) of different telecom providers.

He said continuous monitoring is on in the matter to improve the situation.

He said to tackle the call drop menace, the government has also launched an Integral Voice Response System (IVRS) to obtain direct feedback from consumers and 2.5 crore people were connected.

Besides, the Minister pointed out that one of the problems before the ministry in augmenting infrastructure was opposition of mobile towers by people apprehending radiation.&nbsp;

The government has initiated steps to check call drops and penalty of Rs 58 lakh crore was imposed on telecom service providers, including Idea and BSNL, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in Rajya Sabha on Friday.

The government has initiated steps to check call drops and penalty of Rs 58 lakh crore was imposed on telecom service providers, including Idea and BSNL, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said in Rajya Sabha on Friday. During the Question Hour, he said a penalty of Rs four lakh was imposed on BSNL in the June quarter while Rs 12 lakh was slapped on Idea during the same quarter. Giving details of financial disincentives imposed by TRAI on non-complaint provider against prescribed benchmarks for drop call rate, he said during the March quarter, Rs 3 lakh penalty was imposed on BSNL, Rs 10.5 lakh on Idea, Rs 22.5 lakh on Tata and Rs 6 lakh on Telenor. He said the situation has improved due to augmenting of telecommunication infrastructure and the BTS count has been increased to 20 lakh in four years from eight lakh in 2014. A mobile tower can house several base stations (BTS) of different telecom providers. He said continuous monitoring is on in the matter to improve the situation. He said to tackle the call drop menace, the government has also launched an Integral Voice Response System (IVRS) to obtain direct feedback from consumers and 2.5 crore people were connected. Besides, the Minister pointed out that one of the problems before the ministry in augmenting infrastructure was opposition of mobile towers by people apprehending radiation.

Penalty of Rs 58 lakh on telecom service providers for call drop: Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha

The Centre has spent a total of Rs 364 crore since 2014 in advertising the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet projects that aims to improve the child sex ratio, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said Friday.

The highest amount spent on advertising the campaign was Rs 155.71 crore in 2018-19 (till December 31, 2018), Minister of State for Women and Child Development Virendra Kumar said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

The government spent Rs 18.91 crore in 2014-15, Rs 24.54 crore in 2015-16, Rs 29.79 crore in 2016-17 and Rs 135.71 crore in 2017-18, he said.

The BBBP scheme was launched by the prime minister in January 2015 in Haryana's Panipat. It focuses on districts with the worst child sex ratio (CSR) as per the 2011 Census.

The key elements of the scheme include nation-wide awareness, advocacy campaign, and multi-sectoral action, Kumar said.&nbsp;

The multi-sectoral actions include effective enforcement of Pre Conception &amp; Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&amp;PNDT) Act, pre-natal or post-natal care of a mother, to improve enrolment of girls in schools, community engagement or training or awareness generation, he said.

Since 2018-19, all 640 districts (as per census 2011) of the country have been covered under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, Kumar said.&nbsp;

"Out of 640 districts, 405 are covered through multi-sectoral intervention and media and advocacy while 235 districts covered through alert media and advocacy outreach," he added.&nbsp;

The Centre has spent a total of Rs 364 crore since 2014 in advertising the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet projects that aims to improve the child sex ratio, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said Friday.

The Centre has spent a total of Rs 364 crore since 2014 in advertising the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet projects that aims to improve the child sex ratio, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said Friday. The highest amount spent on advertising the campaign was Rs 155.71 crore in 2018-19 (till December 31, 2018), Minister of State for Women and Child Development Virendra Kumar said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. The government spent Rs 18.91 crore in 2014-15, Rs 24.54 crore in 2015-16, Rs 29.79 crore in 2016-17 and Rs 135.71 crore in 2017-18, he said. The BBBP scheme was launched by the prime minister in January 2015 in Haryana's Panipat. It focuses on districts with the worst child sex ratio (CSR) as per the 2011 Census. The key elements of the scheme include nation-wide awareness, advocacy campaign, and multi-sectoral action, Kumar said. The multi-sectoral actions include effective enforcement of Pre Conception & Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&PNDT) Act, pre-natal or post-natal care of a mother, to improve enrolment of girls in schools, community engagement or training or awareness generation, he said. Since 2018-19, all 640 districts (as per census 2011) of the country have been covered under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, Kumar said. "Out of 640 districts, 405 are covered through multi-sectoral intervention and media and advocacy while 235 districts covered through alert media and advocacy outreach," he added.

Centre spent Rs 364 crore in advertising Beti Bachao Beti Padhao mission since 2014: WCD

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-does-not-have-guts-to-come-to-parliament-to-confront-questions-on-rafale-rahul-gandhi-in-lok-sabha-187882">defended the government's move</a> to buy Rafale&nbsp;fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

"You stopped the deal, forgetting the Air Force was suffering because it didn't suit you. The deal didn't get you money,"&nbsp;a defiant Sitharaman told the Congress in Lok Sabha.

"Delivery of first Rafale&nbsp;will happen in 2019, the last aircraft of 36 jets will be delivered in 2022," India's defence minister informed the lower house of Parliament, while adding that "none of the figher aircraft were available "off the shelf".

"Our government got the jets for a lower price," the defence minister told the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;"CAG is conducting a performance audit of capital acquisition of air systems including the 36 Rafale. The complete draft audit report has been received by&nbsp;the&nbsp;Ministry of Defence in December. Response is under preparation," the minister added.

Sitharaman attacked the Congress saying it did not intend to buy the aircraft till something else was done. The defence minister attacked the Congress president Rahul Gandhi declaring that he lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal.

"There is something different between defence deal and deal in defence. We deal with national security as a priority," Nirmala Sitharaman said.

"Congress is shedding crocodile tears over HAL not getting the deal, why didn't it settle issues during its term," she asked.&nbsp;

The defence minister said there was no deal being struck between Dassault and HAL. Sitharaman said one Congress leader even called the Air chief a "liar". The defence minister accused the Congress of dragging its feet on the jet deal.

"Congress does not want to hear facts," she said.&nbsp;

"Have you (Rahul Gandhi) apologised after having winked an eye at the PM, after hugging the PM? This is not the way a House should run," Sitharaman lashed out, adding, "I don't have a khandan(pedigree) to boast on. PM also comes from a poor background. He has come here from hard work. I have my honour intact. PM has his honour intact. We have all come from normal backgrounds."

Replying to Sitharaman, Rahul Gandhi said: "Price is not part of the secrecy pact. My question is Anil Ambani was brought in for the contract. Who was the one to decide on Anil Ambani?"

The Congress president conceded that he had made a mistake by calling French President Macron as an ex-president. "I make mistakes. Yes, he is the current president, Mr&nbsp;Macron," Rahul Gandhi said.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority. "You stopped the deal, forgetting the Air Force was suffering because it didn't suit you. The deal didn't get you money," a defiant Sitharaman told the Congress in Lok Sabha. "Delivery of first Rafale will happen in 2019, the last aircraft of 36 jets will be delivered in 2022," India's defence minister informed the lower house of Parliament, while adding that "none of the figher aircraft were available "off the shelf". "Our government got the jets for a lower price," the defence minister told the Lok Sabha. "CAG is conducting a performance audit of capital acquisition of air systems including the 36 Rafale. The complete draft audit report has been received by the Ministry of Defence in December. Response is under preparation," the minister added. Sitharaman attacked the Congress saying it did not intend to buy the aircraft till something else was done. The defence minister attacked the Congress president Rahul Gandhi declaring that he lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal. "There is something different between defence deal and deal in defence. We deal with national security as a priority," Nirmala Sitharaman said. "Congress is shedding crocodile tears over HAL not getting the deal, why didn't it settle issues during its term," she asked. The defence minister said there was no deal being struck between Dassault and HAL. Sitharaman said one Congress leader even called the Air chief a "liar". The defence minister accused the Congress of dragging its feet on the jet deal. "Congress does not want to hear facts," she said. "Have you (Rahul Gandhi) apologised after having winked an eye at the PM, after hugging the PM? This is not the way a House should run," Sitharaman lashed out, adding, "I don't have a khandan(pedigree) to boast on. PM also comes from a poor background. He has come here from hard work. I have my honour intact. PM has his honour intact. We have all come from normal backgrounds." Replying to Sitharaman, Rahul Gandhi said: "Price is not part of the secrecy pact. My question is Anil Ambani was brought in for the contract. Who was the one to decide on Anil Ambani?" The Congress president conceded that he had made a mistake by calling French President Macron as an ex-president. "I make mistakes. Yes, he is the current president, Mr Macron," Rahul Gandhi said.

Rafale deal was done with national security as a priority, says Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament

With a view to positioning its most modern fighter jets on both the fronts, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will deploy one each squadron of the Rafale combat aircraft at its airbases in Ambala in Haryana and Hasimara in West Bengal.

"The first Rafale would be handed over to the Indian Air Force in September 2019 but it would be required to undergo intensive 1,500 hours of testing to validate the India Specific Enhancements on it. So, the first batch of the four Rafale fighter planes would arrive at Ambala around May 2020," senior IAF officials said.

Infrastructure for housing both the squadrons has been completed at both the bases.

In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts.

The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues.

Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement.

The Hasimara air base in West Bengal is close to the China border and was home to the MiG 27 fighters which are being phased out now.

Once inducted, the Rafales would be the most potent fighters of the Air Force but the mainstay would be the Su-30MKIs-272 which would be in service by the year 2021-22.

The Air Force rates the Rafale much higher than the Su-30MKIs in terms of capabilities and has been making a case for the increased number of Rafale type multirole fighters.&nbsp;

'The first Rafale would be handed over to the Indian Air Force in September 2019', said senior IAF officials.

With a view to positioning its most modern fighter jets on both the fronts, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will deploy one each squadron of the Rafale combat aircraft at its airbases in Ambala in Haryana and Hasimara in West Bengal. "The first Rafale would be handed over to the Indian Air Force in September 2019 but it would be required to undergo intensive 1,500 hours of testing to validate the India Specific Enhancements on it. So, the first batch of the four Rafale fighter planes would arrive at Ambala around May 2020," senior IAF officials said. Infrastructure for housing both the squadrons has been completed at both the bases. In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts. The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues. Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement. The Hasimara air base in West Bengal is close to the China border and was home to the MiG 27 fighters which are being phased out now. Once inducted, the Rafales would be the most potent fighters of the Air Force but the mainstay would be the Su-30MKIs-272 which would be in service by the year 2021-22. The Air Force rates the Rafale much higher than the Su-30MKIs in terms of capabilities and has been making a case for the increased number of Rafale type multirole fighters.

Indian Air Force to deploy Rafale jets in Ambala, Hasimara

Twenty-seven defaulting businessmen and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/16-fugitive-extradited-back-to-india-in-last-4-years-5-in-2018-187061">economic offenders</a> have fled the country in the last five years, Parliament was informed Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interpol has been approached to issue red corner notices (RCNs) against 20 persons out of these 27, Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

He further said Interpol has already issued RCN against eight persons who have fled the country and extradition requests have been sent in case of six.

As per the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), applications under <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirav-modi-located-in-uk-british-authorities-inform-india-government-187066">Fugitive</a> Economic Offenders Act, 2018 have been filed against seven persons out of these 27, the minister said.

Shukla informed the House that Westminster Magistrates' Court in London has recommended extradition of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/order-on-ed-application-to-declare-mallya-fugitive-offender-adjourned-till-january-5-186580">Vijay Mallya</a> from the Uk to India.

The government, he said, has also advised the public sector banks to obtain a certified copy of the passport of promoters/directors and other authorised signatories of companies availing loan facilities of more than Rs 50 crore.&nbsp;

Twenty-seven defaulting businessmen and economic offenders have fled the country in the last five years, Parliament was informed Friday. Interpol has been approached to issue red corner notices (RCNs) against 20 persons out of these 27, Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

Twenty-seven defaulting businessmen and economic offenders have fled the country in the last five years, Parliament was informed Friday. Interpol has been approached to issue red corner notices (RCNs) against 20 persons out of these 27, Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla said in a written reply in Lok Sabha. He further said Interpol has already issued RCN against eight persons who have fled the country and extradition requests have been sent in case of six. As per the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), applications under Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 have been filed against seven persons out of these 27, the minister said. Shukla informed the House that Westminster Magistrates' Court in London has recommended extradition of Vijay Mallya from the Uk to India. The government, he said, has also advised the public sector banks to obtain a certified copy of the passport of promoters/directors and other authorised signatories of companies availing loan facilities of more than Rs 50 crore.

27 economic offenders fled India in last 5 years

The government has provided Rs 300 crore for the construction of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/on-statue-of-unity-inaugeration-here-are-top-five-tallest-statues-in-the-world-174352">world's tallest statue</a>, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/things-to-know-about-statue-of-unity-174538">'Statue of Unity'</a> at Kevadiya in Narmada District of Gujarat, the Parliament was informed Friday.

This information was given by Minister of State for Finance P Radhakrishnan in reply to a question asked by senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge.

"A total amount of Rs 300 crore has been released by the Central Government for construction of the Statue of Unity," the Minister said in the written reply.

He further said, the Ministry of Finance did not direct any public sector undertaking (PSU)/Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) to provide funds towards the construction of the statue.

Besides, Radhakrishnan said there were no details available with the ministry of any foreign funding for construction of the statue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-ram-sutar-the-sculptor-who-carved-vallabhbhais-statute-of-unity-174566">statue</a> to the nation on October 31 last year.

The total cost of the statue is estimated at around Rs 3,000 crore.&nbsp;

The government has provided Rs 300 crore for the construction of world's tallest statue, the 'Statue of Unity' at Kevadiya in Narmada District of Gujarat, the Parliament was informed Friday.

The government has provided Rs 300 crore for the construction of world's tallest statue, the 'Statue of Unity' at Kevadiya in Narmada District of Gujarat, the Parliament was informed Friday. This information was given by Minister of State for Finance P Radhakrishnan in reply to a question asked by senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge. "A total amount of Rs 300 crore has been released by the Central Government for construction of the Statue of Unity," the Minister said in the written reply. He further said, the Ministry of Finance did not direct any public sector undertaking (PSU)/Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) to provide funds towards the construction of the statue. Besides, Radhakrishnan said there were no details available with the ministry of any foreign funding for construction of the statue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the statue to the nation on October 31 last year. The total cost of the statue is estimated at around Rs 3,000 crore.

Centre provided Rs 300 crore towards Statue of Unity in Gujarat, Parliament informed

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Friday with increased wind speed but remained in the 'very poor' category, authorities said.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city reached 385, which is in the 'very poor' category.

Seventeen areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality, while 12 gauged 'very poor' air quality, it said.

Ghaziabad recorded 'severe' air quality while Faridabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality.

The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers) in Delhi was recorded at 228 while the PM10 level was at 358, 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'.

In view of the air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) ordered a 24-hour ban on the entry of trucks into the national capital.

The entry of trucks to Delhi would be disallowed&nbsp;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 was in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday, before deteriorating to 'severe' on Wednesday as it was on Monday.

The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said other than surface wind speed, all the rest meteorological factors are likely to be "unfavourable".

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Friday with increased wind speed but remained in the 'very poor' category, authorities said. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city reached 385, which is in the 'very poor' category.

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Friday with increased wind speed but remained in the 'very poor' category, authorities said. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city reached 385, which is in the 'very poor' category. Seventeen areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality, while 12 gauged 'very poor' air quality, it said. Ghaziabad recorded 'severe' air quality while Faridabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality. The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers) in Delhi was recorded at 228 while the PM10 level was at 358, 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'. In view of the air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) 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 was in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday, before deteriorating to 'severe' on Wednesday as it was on Monday. The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said other than surface wind speed, all the rest meteorological factors are likely to be "unfavourable".

Delhi's air quality shows slight improvement: CPCB

Public broadcaster Prasar Bharati has decided to close down All India Radio's national channel and its regional training academies in five cities as part of "cost-cutting measures" and to "rationalise" services.

The programme, technical, ministerial and other staff posted at National Channel in Todapur and Nagpur etc, apart from those working at Regional Academies of Broadcasting and Multimedia (RABMs) in five cities, may be posted as per the requirement of the organisation, said the order issued by the Directorate General, All India Radio (AIR).

In order to "rationalise AIR services and keeping in view of the cost-cutting measures", it has been decided by Prasar Bharati and communicated to DG AIR on December 24, 2018, to close down the national channel of AIR and RABMs located at Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Shillong and Thiruvananthapuram with immediate effect, it said.

The order, dated January 3, stated that the programmes of archival value maintained by national channel should be sent to the central archives in Delhi for digitisation and preservation for posterity.

The national channel, which broadcasts from 6 PM to 6 AM, came up in 1987 and played an important role in keeping people abreast with national issues, an AIR source said.

"National channel has a huge repository of programmes and the personnel will now be redeployed," the source said.

It is understood that certain sections within AIR are not happy with the decision as they believe that the national channel was an important part of the broadcasts and there were other ways to cut costs than shutting it down altogether.

"These days you can livestream, you can make it an application-based service, there are many other ways of cost-cutting. The effort should have been to strengthen national channel and not close it down," a source said.

Public broadcaster Prasar Bharati has decided to close down All India Radio's national channel and its regional training academies in five cities as part of "cost-cutting measures" and to "rationalise" services.

Public broadcaster Prasar Bharati has decided to close down All India Radio's national channel and its regional training academies in five cities as part of "cost-cutting measures" and to "rationalise" services. The programme, technical, ministerial and other staff posted at National Channel in Todapur and Nagpur etc, apart from those working at Regional Academies of Broadcasting and Multimedia (RABMs) in five cities, may be posted as per the requirement of the organisation, said the order issued by the Directorate General, All India Radio (AIR). In order to "rationalise AIR services and keeping in view of the cost-cutting measures", it has been decided by Prasar Bharati and communicated to DG AIR on December 24, 2018, to close down the national channel of AIR and RABMs located at Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Shillong and Thiruvananthapuram with immediate effect, it said. The order, dated January 3, stated that the programmes of archival value maintained by national channel should be sent to the central archives in Delhi for digitisation and preservation for posterity. The national channel, which broadcasts from 6 PM to 6 AM, came up in 1987 and played an important role in keeping people abreast with national issues, an AIR source said. "National channel has a huge repository of programmes and the personnel will now be redeployed," the source said. It is understood that certain sections within AIR are not happy with the decision as they believe that the national channel was an important part of the broadcasts and there were other ways to cut costs than shutting it down altogether. "These days you can livestream, you can make it an application-based service, there are many other ways of cost-cutting. The effort should have been to strengthen national channel and not close it down," a source said.

AIR to shut down national channel, regional training academies in 5 cities to cut costs

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Centre and the Meghalaya government to file a ''status report'' before it by January 7 on the steps taken and the progress made in the rescue operation of 15 miners trapped in an illegal flooded coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills since December 13 last year.

During the hearing of the case, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta told the apex court that the ''illegal mine'' was not maintained properly and blueprint was not available.&nbsp;

“I had a detailed meeting with home and defence joint secretaries, functional divers and officer of Coal India. Specialised divers of the Indian Navy were called but the operation is difficult as is there is a river nearby. &nbsp;The divers tried but the water is murky,'' the SG told the Supreme Court.

In its response, the court asked the government to take action against mine owners. "Why should the workers suffer?" the court asked.

In Thailand, there was a blueprint and it being a cave there were air pockets, the SG told the court.&nbsp;

The court also expressed disappointement with the government's effort at the initial stages of the rescue operation.&nbsp;

“We are concerned with the fact that whether efforts are being made or not. Initially there were no serious efforts,” the court said.

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Centre and the Meghalaya government to file a ''status report'' before it by January 7 on the steps taken and the progress made in the rescue operation of 15 miners trapped in an illegal flooded coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills since December 13 last year.

The Supreme Court on Friday asked Centre and the Meghalaya government to file a ''status report'' before it by January 7 on the steps taken and the progress made in the rescue operation of 15 miners trapped in an illegal flooded coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills since December 13 last year. During the hearing of the case, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta told the apex court that the ''illegal mine'' was not maintained properly and blueprint was not available. “I had a detailed meeting with home and defence joint secretaries, functional divers and officer of Coal India. Specialised divers of the Indian Navy were called but the operation is difficult as is there is a river nearby. The divers tried but the water is murky,'' the SG told the Supreme Court. In its response, the court asked the government to take action against mine owners. "Why should the workers suffer?" the court asked. In Thailand, there was a blueprint and it being a cave there were air pockets, the SG told the court. The court also expressed disappointement with the government's effort at the initial stages of the rescue operation. “We are concerned with the fact that whether efforts are being made or not. Initially there were no serious efforts,” the court said.

Miners rescue: Supreme Court asks Centre, Meghalaya govt to file status report 

The government Friday indicated that printing of Rs 2,000 bank notes, introduced post-demonetisation in November 2016, has been stopped for now as there is enough stock in circulation.

In a tweet, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said printing of notes is planned as per the projected requirement.

"We have more than adequate notes of Rs 2,000 in the system with over 35 per cent of notes by value in circulation being of Rs 2,000.

"There has been no decision regarding 2,000 rupee note production recently," the Secretary said.

Soon after the sudden decision to ban old Rs 500/1,000 currency notes by the government, the Reserve Bank had come out with the 2,000 rupee note along with a new look 500 rupee note as part of its massive remonetisation exercise.

The old 500/1,000 bank notes that were scrapped in November 2016 accounted for around 86 per cent of the total currency in circulation at that time.

The government Friday indicated that printing of Rs 2,000 bank notes, introduced post-demonetisation in November 2016, has been stopped for now as there is enough stock in circulation.

The government Friday indicated that printing of Rs 2,000 bank notes, introduced post-demonetisation in November 2016, has been stopped for now as there is enough stock in circulation. In a tweet, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said printing of notes is planned as per the projected requirement. "We have more than adequate notes of Rs 2,000 in the system with over 35 per cent of notes by value in circulation being of Rs 2,000. "There has been no decision regarding 2,000 rupee note production recently," the Secretary said. Soon after the sudden decision to ban old Rs 500/1,000 currency notes by the government, the Reserve Bank had come out with the 2,000 rupee note along with a new look 500 rupee note as part of its massive remonetisation exercise. The old 500/1,000 bank notes that were scrapped in November 2016 accounted for around 86 per cent of the total currency in circulation at that time.

Government indicates printing of Rs 2000 note stopped for now; sufficient currency in circulation

The Supreme Court Friday directed the Centre to place on affidavit steps taken since September last year to set up a search committee for the Lokpal.

The apex court asked Attorney General KK Venugopal to file the affidavit on the matter by January 17.

"You have to ensure on affidavit the steps taken on the issue of setting up of a search committee for the Lokpal," a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice S K Kaul said.

When the attorney general said that since the last order of September 2018, several steps have been taken, the bench asked him "what all have you done till date. So much time is being taken".

When the attorney general reiterated that several steps have been taken, the bench shot back "bring everything on record what you have done since September 2018".

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the NGO Common Cause, which has been pursuing the issue of Lokpal, said the government has not even made public the members of the search committee on its website.

The top court had on July 24 last year rejected as "wholly unsatisfactory" the Centre's submission on the issue of setting up of a search committee for the Lokpal and demanded a "better affidavit" within four weeks.

The direction had followed a submission by the attorney general that the selection committee members comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and eminent jurist Mukul Rohatgi had met on July 19 last year to deliberate upon names for members of the search committee.

The selection panel also took note that the search committee is to comprise a minimum of seven people (including chairperson) with experience in anti-corruption policy, public administration, vigilance, policy making, finance including insurance and banking, law and management, etc, Venugopal had said.

Besides, 50 per cent of the members of the search committee will be from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Minorities and Women, he had said.&nbsp;

The apex court asked Attorney General KK Venugopal to file the affidavit on the matter by January 17.

The Supreme Court Friday directed the Centre to place on affidavit steps taken since September last year to set up a search committee for the Lokpal. The apex court asked Attorney General KK Venugopal to file the affidavit on the matter by January 17. "You have to ensure on affidavit the steps taken on the issue of setting up of a search committee for the Lokpal," a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice S K Kaul said. When the attorney general said that since the last order of September 2018, several steps have been taken, the bench asked him "what all have you done till date. So much time is being taken". When the attorney general reiterated that several steps have been taken, the bench shot back "bring everything on record what you have done since September 2018". Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the NGO Common Cause, which has been pursuing the issue of Lokpal, said the government has not even made public the members of the search committee on its website. The top court had on July 24 last year rejected as "wholly unsatisfactory" the Centre's submission on the issue of setting up of a search committee for the Lokpal and demanded a "better affidavit" within four weeks. The direction had followed a submission by the attorney general that the selection committee members comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and eminent jurist Mukul Rohatgi had met on July 19 last year to deliberate upon names for members of the search committee. The selection panel also took note that the search committee is to comprise a minimum of seven people (including chairperson) with experience in anti-corruption policy, public administration, vigilance, policy making, finance including insurance and banking, law and management, etc, Venugopal had said. Besides, 50 per cent of the members of the search committee will be from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Minorities and Women, he had said.

Lokpal search committee: Supreme Court directs Centre to file affidavit on steps taken since September 2018

Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, who created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple, Thursday said they were not tools of anyone and dismissed as "baseless" the allegations that they were playing into the hands of police and the government.

They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees.

"All the pilgrims going to Sabarimala were very cooperative. We never had any problem from other devotees. We trekked down safely from the shrine," Kanakadurga said.

The shrine, which was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age, on Wednesday saw the breaking of centuries-old tradition and infuriating the Hindu right outfits when the 42-year-old Bindu and 44-year-old Kanakadurga visited it under police protection.

In an exclusive interview given to Manorama channel, Kanakadurga said, "Going to Sabarimala was my own decision."

Dismissing the conspiracy angle being alleged by the Sangh Parivar outfits and the Opposition Congress that the two women were playing into the hands of police and the government, the women said they "used" the police machinery to enter Sabarimala on the basis of the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine.

"We do not know whether chief minister had any role in our reaching the shrine," they said.

"We are a group of like-minded people. That's why we have come together to trek the temple. Police or political party agenda, as was being alleged by the BJP and others, is baseless," she said.

When asked whether they were devotees or activists, Kanakadurga said there an activist can also be a devotee.

"Activists are also devotees. If some activist wants to visit a temple, they can.The September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court allows all women to go, whether they are activists or devotees," she said.

Bindu told the channel that they were adamant and wanted to visit the shrine after failing in their first attempt on December 24 when they were forced to return due to violent protests.

"If we had gone back to our respective homes, we were sure that we may never visit Sabarimala. So we sought help from the police and SPs from two districts," she said.

She also said they did not disclose where they stayed after the December 24 fiasco as they feared the safety of their friends.

"We sought security from Pamba, (Sabarimala foothills), and the trip was not in any ambulance as claimed by political parties. We trekked all the way to the shrine," Bindu told the channel.

Dismissing the allegations that they have political affiliations, Bindu said those who oppose the entry of women into Sabarimala have always labelled as "Maoists" the women who attempted to trek the hills.

"I am not affiliated with any political party or organisation now. I have left all those years back. I was part of the CPI(ML)'s Central Committee and later resigned owing to differences. I am not part of any organisation now," she said, adding that she was a key speaker at a BJP event on Human Rights Day years ago.&nbsp;

"That doesn't mean that I am with BJP. Just because I entered Sabarimala will never make me a communist," she said.

When asked about her family's support, Bindu said she has the backing of her husband Hariharan on every issue, including Sabarimala, and he had even accompanied the duo till Sannidhanam (temple complex).

When asked about her mother's criticism for undertaking the trip to Sabarimala, Bindu said her mother has got all rights to express her views.&nbsp;

"My mother and brother have all the rights to say that women should not enter Sabarimala. This is a democratic country. They can express their views and rights. They are entitled to their views," she said.

Kanakadurga said she was staying with her husband and kids but may have some ideological differences.

She also said that her husband tried to dissuade her considering her safety.

Bindu said the petitions on Sabarimala issue were coming up before the Supreme Court on January 22, and "these riot-mongers" had an agenda to not allow the women to enter the shrine before that.

"This was a clear-cut political agenda played by the Sangh Parivar organisations to uproot the left ideology from Kerala and come to power," she said.

"It has been exposed that there were no objections from the devotees but the protests were from these riot-mongers. The Kerala society has understood the same. They have been exposed," Bindu said.

Meanwhile, a top police official confirmed to PTI that at least 20-30 anti-Maoist commandos escorted the women to the shrine. However, It was not clear from where the police escorted them.&nbsp;

Kerala was in ferment on Thursday, a day after the two women entered the Sabarimala temple, infuriating saffron outfits, with protesters blocking roads by placing burning tyres and granite blocks, and clashes leaving 31 police personnel and many others injured.

The dawn to a dusk shutdown called by the Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, and the Antarrashtriya

Hindu Parishad (AHP), plunged the state into turmoil, as hundreds of Hindu right-wing activists disrupted vehicular movement and vandalised shops and offices of the ruling CPI(M).&nbsp;

They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees.

Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, who created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple, Thursday said they were not tools of anyone and dismissed as "baseless" the allegations that they were playing into the hands of police and the government. They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees. "All the pilgrims going to Sabarimala were very cooperative. We never had any problem from other devotees. We trekked down safely from the shrine," Kanakadurga said. The shrine, which was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age, on Wednesday saw the breaking of centuries-old tradition and infuriating the Hindu right outfits when the 42-year-old Bindu and 44-year-old Kanakadurga visited it under police protection. In an exclusive interview given to Manorama channel, Kanakadurga said, "Going to Sabarimala was my own decision." Dismissing the conspiracy angle being alleged by the Sangh Parivar outfits and the Opposition Congress that the two women were playing into the hands of police and the government, the women said they "used" the police machinery to enter Sabarimala on the basis of the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine. "We do not know whether chief minister had any role in our reaching the shrine," they said. "We are a group of like-minded people. That's why we have come together to trek the temple. Police or political party agenda, as was being alleged by the BJP and others, is baseless," she said. When asked whether they were devotees or activists, Kanakadurga said there an activist can also be a devotee. "Activists are also devotees. If some activist wants to visit a temple, they can.The September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court allows all women to go, whether they are activists or devotees," she said. Bindu told the channel that they were adamant and wanted to visit the shrine after failing in their first attempt on December 24 when they were forced to return due to violent protests. "If we had gone back to our respective homes, we were sure that we may never visit Sabarimala. So we sought help from the police and SPs from two districts," she said. She also said they did not disclose where they stayed after the December 24 fiasco as they feared the safety of their friends. "We sought security from Pamba, (Sabarimala foothills), and the trip was not in any ambulance as claimed by political parties. We trekked all the way to the shrine," Bindu told the channel. Dismissing the allegations that they have political affiliations, Bindu said those who oppose the entry of women into Sabarimala have always labelled as "Maoists" the women who attempted to trek the hills. "I am not affiliated with any political party or organisation now. I have left all those years back. I was part of the CPI(ML)'s Central Committee and later resigned owing to differences. I am not part of any organisation now," she said, adding that she was a key speaker at a BJP event on Human Rights Day years ago. "That doesn't mean that I am with BJP. Just because I entered Sabarimala will never make me a communist," she said. When asked about her family's support, Bindu said she has the backing of her husband Hariharan on every issue, including Sabarimala, and he had even accompanied the duo till Sannidhanam (temple complex). When asked about her mother's criticism for undertaking the trip to Sabarimala, Bindu said her mother has got all rights to express her views. "My mother and brother have all the rights to say that women should not enter Sabarimala. This is a democratic country. They can express their views and rights. They are entitled to their views," she said. Kanakadurga said she was staying with her husband and kids but may have some ideological differences. She also said that her husband tried to dissuade her considering her safety. Bindu said the petitions on Sabarimala issue were coming up before the Supreme Court on January 22, and "these riot-mongers" had an agenda to not allow the women to enter the shrine before that. "This was a clear-cut political agenda played by the Sangh Parivar organisations to uproot the left ideology from Kerala and come to power," she said. "It has been exposed that there were no objections from the devotees but the protests were from these riot-mongers. The Kerala society has understood the same. They have been exposed," Bindu said. Meanwhile, a top police official confirmed to PTI that at least 20-30 anti-Maoist commandos escorted the women to the shrine. However, It was not clear from where the police escorted them. Kerala was in ferment on Thursday, a day after the two women entered the Sabarimala temple, infuriating saffron outfits, with protesters blocking roads by placing burning tyres and granite blocks, and clashes leaving 31 police personnel and many others injured. The dawn to a dusk shutdown called by the Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, and the Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), plunged the state into turmoil, as hundreds of Hindu right-wing activists disrupted vehicular movement and vandalised shops and offices of the ruling CPI(M).

Are not part of any agenda, say two women who visited Sabarimala temple

At least one Naxal was killed in an encounter with the security forces in Jharkhand's Chatra district on Friday.

The gunbattle which continued for a couple of minutes commenced at 7 am in the morning.

Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of police and CRPF personnel launched a search operation in the region when they fired on by a group of Naxals hiding there.

The security forces retaliated to the firing.

The joint team also recovered one INSAS rifle from the incident spot.

Both Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are known to be a Naxal hotbed, with encounters and attacks taking place nearly on a weekly basis.

A few days back, nearly 10 Naxals were gunned down by security forces in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, while one District Reserve Guard personnel sustained injuries in the cross-firing.

The gunbattle which continued for a couple of minutes commenced at 7 am in the morning.

At least one Naxal was killed in an encounter with the security forces in Jharkhand's Chatra district on Friday. The gunbattle which continued for a couple of minutes commenced at 7 am in the morning. Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of police and CRPF personnel launched a search operation in the region when they fired on by a group of Naxals hiding there. The security forces retaliated to the firing. The joint team also recovered one INSAS rifle from the incident spot. Both Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are known to be a Naxal hotbed, with encounters and attacks taking place nearly on a weekly basis. A few days back, nearly 10 Naxals were gunned down by security forces in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, while one District Reserve Guard personnel sustained injuries in the cross-firing.

Jharkhand: 1 Naxal killed gunned down in Chatra

Eleven trains were delayed as visibility dropped due to fog in Delhi on Friday morning and the minimum temperature settled at 7.1 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year.

At 5.30 am, visibility at Palam and Safdarjung was zero and 400 metres respectively. The visibility was 50 and 400 metres at Palam and Safdarjung respectively at 8.30 am.

According to a Railways spokesperson, 11 trains were delayed due to fog and the average delay was two to three hours.

Purushottam Puri-New Delhi, Malda-Anand Vihar Express and Farakka Express Malda-Delhi were some of the trains that were delayed, he said.

However, operations were not affected at the Delhi airport.

Currently, the Lowest Runway Visual Range (RVR) is reported to be 175 metres, which does permit landings and even take-offs, a source said.

The humidity level on Friday was recorded was recorded at 100 per cent.

The weatherman has forecast a partly cloudy sky with the possibility of haze or smoke. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 21 degrees Celsius.

According to a meteorological department official, there might be light rains towards Saturday evening and the temperature is likely to fall on Sunday.

There might be rains over a span of the next couple of days, he said.

At 5.30 am, visibility at Palam and Safdarjung was zero and 400 metres respectively. The visibility was 50 and 400 metres at Palam and Safdarjung respectively at 8.30 am.

Eleven trains were delayed as visibility dropped due to fog in Delhi on Friday morning and the minimum temperature settled at 7.1 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year. At 5.30 am, visibility at Palam and Safdarjung was zero and 400 metres respectively. The visibility was 50 and 400 metres at Palam and Safdarjung respectively at 8.30 am. According to a Railways spokesperson, 11 trains were delayed due to fog and the average delay was two to three hours. Purushottam Puri-New Delhi, Malda-Anand Vihar Express and Farakka Express Malda-Delhi were some of the trains that were delayed, he said. However, operations were not affected at the Delhi airport. Currently, the Lowest Runway Visual Range (RVR) is reported to be 175 metres, which does permit landings and even take-offs, a source said. The humidity level on Friday was recorded was recorded at 100 per cent. The weatherman has forecast a partly cloudy sky with the possibility of haze or smoke. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 21 degrees Celsius. According to a meteorological department official, there might be light rains towards Saturday evening and the temperature is likely to fall on Sunday. There might be rains over a span of the next couple of days, he said.

Fog in Delhi delays 11 trains

Confusion prevailed over the entry of a 46-year old Sri Lankan Tamil woman into the Lord Ayyappa temple here late Thursday night with the woman denying it and official sources claiming otherwise.

While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers.

Sasikala, who was accompanied by her husband, Saravanan, and son for darshan, told reporters at Pamba that she was not allowed to offer prayers at the temple.

Saravanan said only he and his son were able to offer worship at the temple on Thursday, the day when parts of Kerala witnessed violent protests over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the shrine.

Last night, some television channels aired visuals of the woman with "irumudikettu" (sacred offerings) and two policemen in mufti (plain clothes accompanying her.

On spotting the media, the policemen were seen scurrying away.

Sasikala claimed that at Marakootam, she was prevented by the police from proceeding further.

"There was no protest from devotees. But police sent me back. I am an Ayyappa devotee. They did not allow me to go to the shrine. I am not scared of anyone...," she told reporters on her return to Pamba, foothills of Sabarimala.

Sasikala claimed she had observed the 41-day "vratham" (penance).

"They did not allow me. Why did they not allow me? Why are you all standing around me now? I am not afraid of anyone. Ayyappa will answer you all. I am an Ayyappa devotee. I have not come here to act as others. You will come to know who I am," she said, visibly agitated.

On Friday, a transgender, Kayal, who arrived at Pamba at around 6 am, was turned away by the police and not allowed to go to the temple complex following protest from the devotees, the police said.

Kayal had come in a saree and later changed into men's clothing and tried to trek the holy hills with "irrumudikettu", they said.

Four transgenders had recently offered prayers at Sabarimala.

While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers.

Confusion prevailed over the entry of a 46-year old Sri Lankan Tamil woman into the Lord Ayyappa temple here late Thursday night with the woman denying it and official sources claiming otherwise. While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers. Sasikala, who was accompanied by her husband, Saravanan, and son for darshan, told reporters at Pamba that she was not allowed to offer prayers at the temple. Saravanan said only he and his son were able to offer worship at the temple on Thursday, the day when parts of Kerala witnessed violent protests over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the shrine. Last night, some television channels aired visuals of the woman with "irumudikettu" (sacred offerings) and two policemen in mufti (plain clothes accompanying her. On spotting the media, the policemen were seen scurrying away. Sasikala claimed that at Marakootam, she was prevented by the police from proceeding further. "There was no protest from devotees. But police sent me back. I am an Ayyappa devotee. They did not allow me to go to the shrine. I am not scared of anyone...," she told reporters on her return to Pamba, foothills of Sabarimala. Sasikala claimed she had observed the 41-day "vratham" (penance). "They did not allow me. Why did they not allow me? Why are you all standing around me now? I am not afraid of anyone. Ayyappa will answer you all. I am an Ayyappa devotee. I have not come here to act as others. You will come to know who I am," she said, visibly agitated. On Friday, a transgender, Kayal, who arrived at Pamba at around 6 am, was turned away by the police and not allowed to go to the temple complex following protest from the devotees, the police said. Kayal had come in a saree and later changed into men's clothing and tried to trek the holy hills with "irrumudikettu", they said. Four transgenders had recently offered prayers at Sabarimala.

Confusion over Lankan woman's entry into Sabarimala

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