100,000 strikes in 3 years: How October 7 redefined Israel's war 

Happy Birthday Rekha: Watch these 7 evergreen Bollywood hits on Netflix, Prime Video and more

‘Your people don’t even let us near it’: IAF chief’s blunt response on US F-35; India yet to decide on Russia’s Su-57

Real or fake? PIB fact-checks protest videos; Delhi Police clarifies on Gurdwara Bangla Sahib clip

UK navy hit by espionage scandal: Sailor accused of spying for Russia | Gravitas

Delhi on high alert for CJP protest: Delhi police to use body cams to 'prove whether we did anything’; Pink Force, RAF, 35,000 personnel deployed

‘Never-ending flow of cheap labour’: JD Vance hits back at Indian-origin Congresswoman over US green card curbs for major tech companies

Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded

'Jantar Mantar not the story of India': BJP's Sambit Patra claims 'anarchists' tried to hold Delhi captive

BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad slams CJP protests, calls it 'shadow boxing for AAP'

Riyadh airport hit in missile attack, dozens injured; 5 in intensive care

'Spent Rs 2,000 cr to elect Trump': Elon Musk bought US President's loyalty by writing the biggest political cheque in human history

Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued

US mid-term elections: What are PACs - Unique American System that lets corporates shape voting

Elon musk & India clash over Starlink's market entry terms 

INDIA bloc plans mega protest on Monday amid Delhi crackdown, Wangchuk's warns to launch 'padyatra'

Who is Ajinkya Shinde, announced to lead CJP protest after Dipke, Das and Ranka's detention?

'Ouch!!! That must hurt': Kangana Ranaut hails Kamal Haasan's sharp reply to Elon Musk over Starlink row

‘Right to protest must be protected, but...’: Delhi Police reveals why it denied CJP permission for October 10 Jantar Mantar protest

Hamas used double agents, deceived Israel to carry out October 7 massacre

NIA files FIR in Flydubai hijack attempt and attack on Smit Machchhar, probes ‘larger conspiracy’

Portugal Federation confirms Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to national team despite suspension

All 22 Indian seafarers safe in attack on Panama-flagged tanker off UAE coast

‘Time for Ukraine to get a new president’: Trump lashes out at Zelensky over Russia strikes

Food shortages, suicide attempts and more: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to US after 321 day deployment — What happened aboard the US carrier?

 Thai queen becomes first reigning monarch to fly jet solothailand #queen #wion 

‘Every game against Liverpool is special’: Erling Haaland ahead of Anfield clash

Rahul Gandhi calls Modi, Shah ‘cowards’ amid CJP protest crackdown in Delhi

Four years, 3 licenses, zero launch: Why is Elon Musk’s Starlink still struggling to crack Indian market? EXPLAINED

AUS vs SA 1st Test, Day 2: Renshaw shines with 190 as Australia dominate South Africa

Why was CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke detained? What Delhi Police said

Putin conveys Iran’s proposal to Trump, offers to take Tehran’s enriched uranium

'It’s been 12 hours': CJP writes to Delhi Police, demands release of Dipke, Saurav Das and Ranka

Days after the National Investigation Agency arrested ten people in connection with the ISIS-inspired terror module, the terror combat agency on Tuesday carried out follow-up searches at Amroha in Uttar Pradesh.

News Agency ANI quoted NIA as saying that it was conducting follow-up searches today at five locations in Amroha. The NIA further added that the raids were conducted in connection with ISIS module case last week.

The National Investigation Agency on Wednesday conducted raids at 16 different locations in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh in connection with a new ISIS-inspired terror module 'Harkat-ul-Harb-e-Islam'.

Ten people&nbsp;including the leader of the group were detained following the raids.

Of the 10 persons detained by the anti-terror probe agency, five were picked up from the western Uttar Pradesh district of Amroha following a joint operation with the UP Anti-Terrorist Squad.

Five more were detained from east Delhi's Jafarabad area with the help of Delhi Police's Special Cell.

The group was under NIA surveillance for some time following inputs of their suspicious activities.

According to the NIA sources, there were five such teams in Delhi which were planning attacks on important offices in the national capital.

The NIA source said that questioning of those nabbed would reveal vital information about the module, their plans and handlers. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
National Investigation Agency (NIA) : Conducting follow-up searches today at 5 locations in Amroha (in connection with ISIS module case of last week) <a href="https://t.co/7l5LLiubiy">pic.twitter.com/7l5LLiubiy</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1079967227258884097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With input&nbsp;from agencies)

Days after the National Investigation Agency arrested ten people in connection with the ISIS-inspired terror module, the terror combat agency on Tuesday carried out follow-up searches at Amroha in Uttar Pradesh.

Days after the National Investigation Agency arrested ten people in connection with the ISIS-inspired terror module, the terror combat agency on Tuesday carried out follow-up searches at Amroha in Uttar Pradesh. News Agency ANI quoted NIA as saying that it was conducting follow-up searches today at five locations in Amroha. The NIA further added that the raids were conducted in connection with ISIS module case last week. The National Investigation Agency on Wednesday conducted raids at 16 different locations in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh in connection with a new ISIS-inspired terror module 'Harkat-ul-Harb-e-Islam'. Ten people including the leader of the group were detained following the raids. Of the 10 persons detained by the anti-terror probe agency, five were picked up from the western Uttar Pradesh district of Amroha following a joint operation with the UP Anti-Terrorist Squad. Five more were detained from east Delhi's Jafarabad area with the help of Delhi Police's Special Cell. The group was under NIA surveillance for some time following inputs of their suspicious activities. According to the NIA sources, there were five such teams in Delhi which were planning attacks on important offices in the national capital. The NIA source said that questioning of those nabbed would reveal vital information about the module, their plans and handlers. National Investigation Agency (NIA) : Conducting follow-up searches today at 5 locations in Amroha (in connection with ISIS module case of last week) pic.twitter.com/7l5LLiubiy — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 1, 2019 × (With input from agencies)

ISIS module case: NIA conducts follow-up search at 5 locations in Uttar Pradesh

Lakhs of women from across Kerala are expected to form a 620 km state-sponsored 'Women's Wall'&nbsp;Tuesday to uphold gender equality and renaissance values, in the backdrop of frenzied protests in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/sabarimala-and-downfall-of-communist-rule-in-kerala-177818">Sabarimala</a> after the ruling LDF decided to implement the Supreme Court verdict, allowing all women to pray at the Ayyappa shrine.

The women will form the wall from Kasargod in northern Kerala to the southernmost district of Thiruvananthapuram.

Health minister K K Shylaja will lead the chain at Kasargod and CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat will be the last person at the end of the chain in Thiruvananthapuram.

In order to ensure the success of the proposed wall, meetings were held at various levels-from ward level to district and constituency level.

The participants will gather at the designated centres on Tuesday at 3 PM, where a rehearsal will be held.

The Wall will be formed between 4 and 4.15 PM, with participants taking a pledge to uphold gender equality and renaissance values.

The proposed wall was suggested at a meeting called by the Kerala government in the backdrop of frenzied protests by right-wing parties and a section of devotees over the states decision to implement the September 28 apex court order, allowing women of all ages into Sabarimala.

"Finding a solution to the issues faced by women is seen as part of the class struggle," Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Monday, adding that ensuring gender equality was part of class struggle.

In Marxist ideology, class struggle is the conflict of interests between workers and the ruling class in a capitalist society.

"The protests by communal forces against women's entry in Sabarimala prompted the government and other progressive organisations to build Women's Wall in the state," Vijayan had said, adding that all women, cutting across castes and religions, would join the wall "to save Kerala from the being dragged back into the era of darkness."

The Universal Records Forum, the team which records amazing feats across the globe, is also understood to have reached the state to witness the exercise.

The pledge for the women's wall, which was released by the Chief Ministers office Sunday, calls for upholding gender equality and renaissance values. 
It also bats for secularism and to oppose the move to turn the state into a 'lunatic asylum.'

Though the state government had initially claimed that it would extend all support to the proposed wall, it withdrew the order, allotting funds for it after a controversy erupted.

While senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has described the initiative as a 'wall of contradiction', UDF MLA M K Muneer had has termed it as a 'communal' wall for inviting participation only from 'progressive Hindu organisations'.

The government has spared no effort to make the wall a huge success with all ministers given charge of either a district or a particular place for the success of the event.

The event is organised by the ruling CPI(M), along with over 176 other socio-political organisations, including the CPI, Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP) and Kerala Pulayar Maha Sabha (KPMS).

The Nair Service Society (NSS), a prominent caste-based organization, RSS and the right-wing groups have opposed this move and formed Ayyappa Jyothi (lighting of sacred lamps) across the state on December 26 to counter it.

Thousands had taken part in the Ayyappa Jyothi, which was undertaken by the Sabarimala Karma Samiti.

The Kudambashree Mission had earlier informed that it alone will field over 1.25 lakh women on January 1.

Many prominent personalities from all spheres of life are expected to take part in the event.&nbsp;

Lakhs of women from across Kerala are expected to form a 620 km state-sponsored 'Women's Wall' Tuesday to uphold gender equality and renaissance values, in the backdrop of frenzied protests in Sabarimala after the ruling LDF decided to implement the Supreme Court verdict, allowing all women to pray at the Ayyappa shrine.

Lakhs of women from across Kerala are expected to form a 620 km state-sponsored 'Women's Wall' Tuesday to uphold gender equality and renaissance values, in the backdrop of frenzied protests in Sabarimala after the ruling LDF decided to implement the Supreme Court verdict, allowing all women to pray at the Ayyappa shrine. The women will form the wall from Kasargod in northern Kerala to the southernmost district of Thiruvananthapuram. Health minister K K Shylaja will lead the chain at Kasargod and CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat will be the last person at the end of the chain in Thiruvananthapuram. In order to ensure the success of the proposed wall, meetings were held at various levels-from ward level to district and constituency level. The participants will gather at the designated centres on Tuesday at 3 PM, where a rehearsal will be held. The Wall will be formed between 4 and 4.15 PM, with participants taking a pledge to uphold gender equality and renaissance values. The proposed wall was suggested at a meeting called by the Kerala government in the backdrop of frenzied protests by right-wing parties and a section of devotees over the states decision to implement the September 28 apex court order, allowing women of all ages into Sabarimala. "Finding a solution to the issues faced by women is seen as part of the class struggle," Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Monday, adding that ensuring gender equality was part of class struggle. In Marxist ideology, class struggle is the conflict of interests between workers and the ruling class in a capitalist society. "The protests by communal forces against women's entry in Sabarimala prompted the government and other progressive organisations to build Women's Wall in the state," Vijayan had said, adding that all women, cutting across castes and religions, would join the wall "to save Kerala from the being dragged back into the era of darkness." The Universal Records Forum, the team which records amazing feats across the globe, is also understood to have reached the state to witness the exercise. The pledge for the women's wall, which was released by the Chief Ministers office Sunday, calls for upholding gender equality and renaissance values. It also bats for secularism and to oppose the move to turn the state into a 'lunatic asylum.' Though the state government had initially claimed that it would extend all support to the proposed wall, it withdrew the order, allotting funds for it after a controversy erupted. While senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has described the initiative as a 'wall of contradiction', UDF MLA M K Muneer had has termed it as a 'communal' wall for inviting participation only from 'progressive Hindu organisations'. The government has spared no effort to make the wall a huge success with all ministers given charge of either a district or a particular place for the success of the event. The event is organised by the ruling CPI(M), along with over 176 other socio-political organisations, including the CPI, Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP) and Kerala Pulayar Maha Sabha (KPMS). The Nair Service Society (NSS), a prominent caste-based organization, RSS and the right-wing groups have opposed this move and formed Ayyappa Jyothi (lighting of sacred lamps) across the state on December 26 to counter it. Thousands had taken part in the Ayyappa Jyothi, which was undertaken by the Sabarimala Karma Samiti. The Kudambashree Mission had earlier informed that it alone will field over 1.25 lakh women on January 1. Many prominent personalities from all spheres of life are expected to take part in the event.

Sabarimala row: Lakhs of women to form 620 km-long 'Women's Wall' in Kerala today

Uttar Pradesh Police on Tuesday arrested the man who allegedly attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, with an axe, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

An axe has been recovered from the accused, he will be produced before the court today.&nbsp;

Additional SP Bulandshahr Atul Kumar Srivastava told media that during the interrogation it was revealed that the man arrested today was the one who attacked inspector Kumar with an axe.&nbsp;

"During interrogation, it was revealed that he was the person who attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar with an axe. The axe has been recovered from his possession; other accused persons will be arrested shortly," Srivastava told media.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BulandshahrViolence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BulandshahrViolence</a> case: An accused who allegedly attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar with an axe, has been arrested by the police. An axe was recovered from his possession. He will be produced before the court today. <a href="https://t.co/vLso8gRoIb">pic.twitter.com/vLso8gRoIb</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1079994752227921921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On December 27, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bulandshahr-violence-bjp-mla-claims-cop-subodh-kumar-shot-himself-187106">police arrested Prashant Natt</a>, the man who allegedly shot inspector Singh. As per police, Natt has confessed to having shot at Singh.&nbsp;

"He has accepted during interrogation that he was the one who fired at Subodh Kumar. Further investigation is underway," the SP noted.&nbsp;

Another accused Yogesh Raj, the convener of the district unit of Bajrang Dal, claims innocence and is absconding. So far, the police have been able to arrest four people.

Another key accused, an army man called Jitu Fauji, was detained by Uttar Pradesh Police earlier this month and was sent to 14-day judicial custody by a local court.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Police on Tuesday arrested the man who allegedly attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, with an axe, news agency ANI reported.

Uttar Pradesh Police on Tuesday arrested the man who allegedly attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, with an axe, news agency ANI reported. An axe has been recovered from the accused, he will be produced before the court today. Additional SP Bulandshahr Atul Kumar Srivastava told media that during the interrogation it was revealed that the man arrested today was the one who attacked inspector Kumar with an axe. "During interrogation, it was revealed that he was the person who attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar with an axe. The axe has been recovered from his possession; other accused persons will be arrested shortly," Srivastava told media. #BulandshahrViolence case: An accused who allegedly attacked Inspector Subodh Kumar with an axe, has been arrested by the police. An axe was recovered from his possession. He will be produced before the court today. pic.twitter.com/vLso8gRoIb — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 1, 2019 × On December 27, police arrested Prashant Natt, the man who allegedly shot inspector Singh. As per police, Natt has confessed to having shot at Singh. "He has accepted during interrogation that he was the one who fired at Subodh Kumar. Further investigation is underway," the SP noted. Another accused Yogesh Raj, the convener of the district unit of Bajrang Dal, claims innocence and is absconding. So far, the police have been able to arrest four people. Another key accused, an army man called Jitu Fauji, was detained by Uttar Pradesh Police earlier this month and was sent to 14-day judicial custody by a local court.

Bulandshahr violence: UP Police arrests man who attacked inspector Kumar with axe 

The government has appointed Sudhir Bhargava as new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) along with four new Information Commissioners in the Central Information Commission which had been functioning with just three of them as against a sanctioned strength of 11, including the Chief Information Commissioner.

Highly placed sources said Bhargava, who is Information Commissioner in the CIC, has been appointed as new chief of the panel.

President Ram Nath Kovind has approved the appointment of former IFS officer Yashwardhan Kumar Sinha, former IRS officer Vanaja N Sarna, former IAS Neeraj Kumar Gupta and former Law Secretary Suresh Chandra as Information Commissioners in the Central Information Commission, a government order accessed by PTI said.

Sinha is a 1981-batch Indian Foreign Service officer who was the High Commissioner of India in the United Kingdom.

An alumnus of St Michael's High School in Patna and St Stephen's College in Delhi, Sinha had served a number of important postings in the Ministry of External Affairs including the crucial Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran Division, which he headed for four years as Additional Secretary.

The only woman in the CIC will be Sarna, a 1980-batch Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Excise) officer, who was the Chief of Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC).

Neeraj Kumar Gupta, a 1982-batch IAS officer, was Secretary in the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management.

Chandra, an Indian Legal Service officer, retired as Union law secretary this year and was also private secretary to the then Law Minister Arun Jaitley between 2002 and 2004.

All the bureaucrats appointed by the government have retired this year.

After recent retirements of Chief Information Commissioner R K Mathur and Information Commissioners Yashovardhan Azad, Sridhar Acharyulu and Amitava Bhattacharyya, the Commission, the highest adjudicating authority in RTI matters, was left with three Information Commissioners, prompting activists to approach the Supreme Court on the issue of vacancies.

The Supreme Court had asked the Centre and states to maintain transparency in appointments of Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners and upload the details of search committees and applicants on website.

Commenting on the appointment process, Commodore Lokesh Batra, one of the petitioners in the case, said the government has failed to comply with the Supreme Court directions of posting the details on website.

"As my gut feeling said, the government did not comply with the Supreme Court directions viz transparency as it did not post details on its website," Batra told PTI.

During the hearing, the Centre had told the top court that the search committee has shortlisted names for the post of CIC and a final decision will be taken soon.

A bench of Justices A K Sikri, S Abdul Nazeer and R Subhash Reddy asked the Centre to put on the website details of search committee for CIC and ICs.

Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Centre, had informed the court that a total of 65 applications were received for the CIC post and 280 applications for the post of four ICs in the Central Information Commission.

She had said that after these posts are filled up, notification will be issued for inviting applications for remaining posts of ICs.

The Centre seems to have ignored the plea of former Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu who had called for adequate representation of non-bureaucrats in the Commission in accordance with the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

Citing Section 12 (5) of the RTI Act, he had written to the President that the Act provides for selecting people of eminence, having experience in law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media or administration and governance.

If the government selects more number of former bureaucrats for these posts, it will be a breach of the letter and spirit of the transparency law and more particularly that of Section 12(5) of the RTI Act, which may not stand the scrutiny by the judiciary, he argued.&nbsp;

The government has appointed Sudhir Bhargava as new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) along with four new Information Commissioners in the Central Information Commission which had been functioning with just three of them as against a sanctioned strength of 11, including the Chief Information Commissioner.

The government has appointed Sudhir Bhargava as new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) along with four new Information Commissioners in the Central Information Commission which had been functioning with just three of them as against a sanctioned strength of 11, including the Chief Information Commissioner. Highly placed sources said Bhargava, who is Information Commissioner in the CIC, has been appointed as new chief of the panel. President Ram Nath Kovind has approved the appointment of former IFS officer Yashwardhan Kumar Sinha, former IRS officer Vanaja N Sarna, former IAS Neeraj Kumar Gupta and former Law Secretary Suresh Chandra as Information Commissioners in the Central Information Commission, a government order accessed by PTI said. Sinha is a 1981-batch Indian Foreign Service officer who was the High Commissioner of India in the United Kingdom. An alumnus of St Michael's High School in Patna and St Stephen's College in Delhi, Sinha had served a number of important postings in the Ministry of External Affairs including the crucial Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran Division, which he headed for four years as Additional Secretary. The only woman in the CIC will be Sarna, a 1980-batch Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Excise) officer, who was the Chief of Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC). Neeraj Kumar Gupta, a 1982-batch IAS officer, was Secretary in the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management. Chandra, an Indian Legal Service officer, retired as Union law secretary this year and was also private secretary to the then Law Minister Arun Jaitley between 2002 and 2004. All the bureaucrats appointed by the government have retired this year. After recent retirements of Chief Information Commissioner R K Mathur and Information Commissioners Yashovardhan Azad, Sridhar Acharyulu and Amitava Bhattacharyya, the Commission, the highest adjudicating authority in RTI matters, was left with three Information Commissioners, prompting activists to approach the Supreme Court on the issue of vacancies. The Supreme Court had asked the Centre and states to maintain transparency in appointments of Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners and upload the details of search committees and applicants on website. Commenting on the appointment process, Commodore Lokesh Batra, one of the petitioners in the case, said the government has failed to comply with the Supreme Court directions of posting the details on website. "As my gut feeling said, the government did not comply with the Supreme Court directions viz transparency as it did not post details on its website," Batra told PTI. During the hearing, the Centre had told the top court that the search committee has shortlisted names for the post of CIC and a final decision will be taken soon. A bench of Justices A K Sikri, S Abdul Nazeer and R Subhash Reddy asked the Centre to put on the website details of search committee for CIC and ICs. Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Centre, had informed the court that a total of 65 applications were received for the CIC post and 280 applications for the post of four ICs in the Central Information Commission. She had said that after these posts are filled up, notification will be issued for inviting applications for remaining posts of ICs. The Centre seems to have ignored the plea of former Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu who had called for adequate representation of non-bureaucrats in the Commission in accordance with the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Citing Section 12 (5) of the RTI Act, he had written to the President that the Act provides for selecting people of eminence, having experience in law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media or administration and governance. If the government selects more number of former bureaucrats for these posts, it will be a breach of the letter and spirit of the transparency law and more particularly that of Section 12(5) of the RTI Act, which may not stand the scrutiny by the judiciary, he argued.

Government appoints Sudhir Bhargava as new Chief Information Commissioner

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said.

The humidity level was recorded at 100 per cent.

The weatherman has predicted a clear day ahead with the possibility of shallow fog on Tuesday morning.

"The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle around 22 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said.

On Sunday, the minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 3 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius respectively.&nbsp;

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said.

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said. The humidity level was recorded at 100 per cent. The weatherman has predicted a clear day ahead with the possibility of shallow fog on Tuesday morning. "The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle around 22 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said. On Sunday, the minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 3 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius respectively.

Chilly morning in Delhi, minimum temperature at 3.6 degree Celsius

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010.

The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot.

According to the existing provisions for state services, one can now have access to the benefit of age exemption in the Rajasthan judicial services with amendments made in the existing rules.

As per the Rajasthan Judicial Service (Amendment) Rule 2018, the minimum age limit for general category in Rajasthan judicial service has been reduced from 23 to 21 years and maximum age limit is increased from 35 to 40 years.

Similarly, the benefit of age exemption has been given to differently-abled persons of various classes, including general category, OBC and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by 10, 13 and 15 years, respectively.

Simultaneously, it has been decided to give 1 per cent reservation to the Backward Classes in the Rajasthan Judicial Service.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010. The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal for amendments made in Rules-12 and Rule-17 of the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010. The decision was taken in the State Cabinet's meeting held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Gehlot. According to the existing provisions for state services, one can now have access to the benefit of age exemption in the Rajasthan judicial services with amendments made in the existing rules. As per the Rajasthan Judicial Service (Amendment) Rule 2018, the minimum age limit for general category in Rajasthan judicial service has been reduced from 23 to 21 years and maximum age limit is increased from 35 to 40 years. Similarly, the benefit of age exemption has been given to differently-abled persons of various classes, including general category, OBC and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by 10, 13 and 15 years, respectively. Simultaneously, it has been decided to give 1 per cent reservation to the Backward Classes in the Rajasthan Judicial Service.

Gehlot approves amendments in Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, increases age cap for judicial service

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep.

Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now.&nbsp;They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level."

"Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official.

Earlier in the day, Navy divers went inside the inundated coal mines to rescue 15 miners who are trapped inside since December 13. A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday.

The diving team of the Navy which arrived on Saturday is equipped with specialised equipment, including high-pressure pumps and a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater.

The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government.

The 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village here since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep.

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep. Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now. They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level." "Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official. Earlier in the day, Navy divers went inside the inundated coal mines to rescue 15 miners who are trapped inside since December 13. A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday. The diving team of the Navy which arrived on Saturday is equipped with specialised equipment, including high-pressure pumps and a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater. The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government. The 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village here since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers return without any trace of trapped miners

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls</a>

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-to-destroy-is-before-leaving-syria-says-top-republican-187411">Trump vows to 'destroy' IS before leaving Syria, says top Republican</a>

Senior Republican senator Lindsey Graham said Sunday that President Donald Trump had promised to stay in Syria to finish the job of destroying the Islamic State group -- just days after announcing he would be withdrawing troops immediately.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-riots-case-sajjan-kumar-likely-to-surrender-today-187418">1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today</a>

The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-to-be-tabled-in-rajya-sabha-today-187412">Triple Talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today</a>

The&nbsp;Triple Talaq Bill&nbsp;that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-fall-petrol-at-rs-6884-in-delhi-and-rs-7447-in-mumbai-187417">Fuel prices continue to fall; petrol at Rs 68.84 in Delhi and Rs 74.47 in Mumbai</a>

Fuel prices in the country continued to witness a slump on Monday with petrol selling at Rs 68.84 per litre in the national capital and for Rs 74.47 per litre in Mumbai.

Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports.

Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports. Trump vows to 'destroy' IS before leaving Syria, says top Republican Senior Republican senator Lindsey Graham said Sunday that President Donald Trump had promised to stay in Syria to finish the job of destroying the Islamic State group -- just days after announcing he would be withdrawing troops immediately. 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday. Triple Talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today The Triple Talaq Bill that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Fuel prices continue to fall; petrol at Rs 68.84 in Delhi and Rs 74.47 in Mumbai Fuel prices in the country continued to witness a slump on Monday with petrol selling at Rs 68.84 per litre in the national capital and for Rs 74.47 per litre in Mumbai.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

He surrendered before Metropolitan Magistrate Aditi Garg who directed that Kumar is lodged in Mandoli jail in northeast Delhi.

The court rejected Kumar's petition to be lodged in the high-security Tihar jail, but allowed his plea for security and directed the police to take him to the prison in a separate vehicle.

A lawyer present in the courtroom said the court considered Kumar's plea for security since there was a threat as he was also facing prosecution in another anti-Sikh riots case.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Lawyer of convict Sajjan Kumar after he surrendered before Delhi's Karkardooma Court in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Court has sent him to Mandoli Jail. Court has also ordered that a separate van would be provided for his movement due to security reasons. <a href="https://t.co/OfypwRARkJ">pic.twitter.com/OfypwRARkJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079672278470647808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While declining his plea to be sent to Tihar jail, the court said he was being sent to Mandoli jail in accordance with the rule.

The HC had set a deadline of December 31 for Kumar to surrender and on December 21 declined his plea to extend the time by a month.

The 73-year former Congress leader has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the conviction and life sentence awarded by the HC.

The high court on December 17 convicted and sentenced Kumar to life imprisonment for the "remainder of his natural life". After his conviction, Kumar resigned from the Congress party.

The case in which Kumar was convicted and sentenced relates to the killing of five Sikhs in Raj Nagar Part-I area in Palam Colony of southwest Delhi on November 1-2, 1984 and burning down of a Gurudwara in Raj Nagar Part-II.

The riots had broken out after the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, by her two Sikh bodyguards.

Earlier in the day, former MLAs Kishan Khokhar and Mahender Yadav, who was also convicted in the same case, surrendered before the court to serve their 10-year jail term.

Besides Kumar, the others convicted in the case were former Congress councillor Balwan Khokhar, retired naval officer Captain Bhagmal and Girdhari Lal.

In its judgment, the high court had noted that over 2,700 Sikhs were killed in the national capital during the 1984 riots which were indeed a "carnage of unbelievable proportions".

It also said the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency.

The high court had further said there has been a familiar pattern of mass killings since Partition, like in Mumbai in 1993, Gujarat in 2002 and Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh in 2013, and the "common" feature of each was the "targeting of minorities" with the attacks being "spearheaded by the dominant political actors, facilitated by law enforcement agencies".

The high court had set aside the trial court's 2010 verdict which had acquitted Kumar in the case.

Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. He surrendered before Metropolitan Magistrate Aditi Garg who directed that Kumar is lodged in Mandoli jail in northeast Delhi. The court rejected Kumar's petition to be lodged in the high-security Tihar jail, but allowed his plea for security and directed the police to take him to the prison in a separate vehicle. A lawyer present in the courtroom said the court considered Kumar's plea for security since there was a threat as he was also facing prosecution in another anti-Sikh riots case. Lawyer of convict Sajjan Kumar after he surrendered before Delhi's Karkardooma Court in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Court has sent him to Mandoli Jail. Court has also ordered that a separate van would be provided for his movement due to security reasons. pic.twitter.com/OfypwRARkJ — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × While declining his plea to be sent to Tihar jail, the court said he was being sent to Mandoli jail in accordance with the rule. The HC had set a deadline of December 31 for Kumar to surrender and on December 21 declined his plea to extend the time by a month. The 73-year former Congress leader has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the conviction and life sentence awarded by the HC. The high court on December 17 convicted and sentenced Kumar to life imprisonment for the "remainder of his natural life". After his conviction, Kumar resigned from the Congress party. The case in which Kumar was convicted and sentenced relates to the killing of five Sikhs in Raj Nagar Part-I area in Palam Colony of southwest Delhi on November 1-2, 1984 and burning down of a Gurudwara in Raj Nagar Part-II. The riots had broken out after the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, by her two Sikh bodyguards. Earlier in the day, former MLAs Kishan Khokhar and Mahender Yadav, who was also convicted in the same case, surrendered before the court to serve their 10-year jail term. Besides Kumar, the others convicted in the case were former Congress councillor Balwan Khokhar, retired naval officer Captain Bhagmal and Girdhari Lal. In its judgment, the high court had noted that over 2,700 Sikhs were killed in the national capital during the 1984 riots which were indeed a "carnage of unbelievable proportions". It also said the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency. The high court had further said there has been a familiar pattern of mass killings since Partition, like in Mumbai in 1993, Gujarat in 2002 and Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh in 2013, and the "common" feature of each was the "targeting of minorities" with the attacks being "spearheaded by the dominant political actors, facilitated by law enforcement agencies". The high court had set aside the trial court's 2010 verdict which had acquitted Kumar in the case.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

"If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting&nbsp; 
press release here.

Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP.

She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support.

The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs.

The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own.

Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed.

"The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement.

She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better.

The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn. "If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting press release here. Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP. She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support. The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs. The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own. Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed. "The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement. She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better. The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Might have to reconsider support to Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan govts: Mayawati

The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday.

Overturning the acquittal granted to Kumar by a trial court in 2013, the Delhi High Court on December 17 convicted Kumar and sentenced him to life imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 5 lakh.

In view of this, HS Phoolka, one of the petitioners in 1984 anti-Sikh riot case, has appealed to the victims of the riot to not go to the court on Monday.

In a statement, Phoolka said: "It is apprehended that Sajjan Kumar might try to create disturbances around the court tomorrow, to use as an excuse not to surrender and ask for an extension. I request 1984 Sikh genocide victims not to go to the court tomorrow. He has not got any relief from the Supreme Court. So, he has to surrender."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Latestvisuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Latestvisuals</a> Delhi: Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentence by Delhi High Court in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities today <a href="https://t.co/tgnHrWD81r">pic.twitter.com/tgnHrWD81r</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079568917276868608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Speaking to ANI, Phoolka said,&nbsp;"He simply has to go to the court tomorrow and surrender. If he does not do that, then on January 1 the police will have to take him in custody and send him to Tihar Jail. This is a very big victory for the entire nation, as a mass murderer is going to be punished after years."

Notably, the case against Kumar pertains to the murder of five members of a Sikh family in Delhi Cantonment area during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots aftermath of the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984.

The court, which had asked the former MP Kumar to surrender before December 31, made stinging observations over the investigations and said there "appeared to be ongoing large-scale efforts to suppress cases against him".

"In the summer of 1947, during partition, several people were massacred. 37 years later Delhi was the witness of a similar tragedy. The accused enjoyed political patronage and escaped trial," the court had said.

It added that what happened in the aftermath of the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was "carnage of unbelievable proportions" in which over 2,700 Sikhs were murdered in Delhi alone.

The victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots hailed the High Court`s verdict. Last month, an anti-Sikh riots witness and victim Cham Kaur issued a statement identifying Kumar as the instigator.

Another witness named Sheela Kaur also identified him in connection with the case. In March, the Delhi High Court had received a petition containing a CD, which was stated to be Kumar's confession about accepting his role in the riots.

On December 22 after the decision given by the High Court, the Congress leader filed an appeal in the Apex Court, after the High Court dismissed Kumar's plea seeking more time to surrender.

In his plea, he had sought 30 additional days to surrender, on account of settling family affairs with regard to property and inheritance. Earlier on Thursday, the former parliamentarian appeared before Delhi's Patiala House Court for hearing in the second case, related to the riots, registered against him by the CBI on the recommendation of Nanavati Commission.

The court has adjourned the matter till January 22. As per official records, over 2,700 Sikhs were killed across India after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984 by her Sikh bodyguards, Satwant Singh, and Beant Singh.

The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday.

The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday. Overturning the acquittal granted to Kumar by a trial court in 2013, the Delhi High Court on December 17 convicted Kumar and sentenced him to life imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 5 lakh. In view of this, HS Phoolka, one of the petitioners in 1984 anti-Sikh riot case, has appealed to the victims of the riot to not go to the court on Monday. In a statement, Phoolka said: "It is apprehended that Sajjan Kumar might try to create disturbances around the court tomorrow, to use as an excuse not to surrender and ask for an extension. I request 1984 Sikh genocide victims not to go to the court tomorrow. He has not got any relief from the Supreme Court. So, he has to surrender." #Latestvisuals Delhi: Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentence by Delhi High Court in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities today pic.twitter.com/tgnHrWD81r — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × Speaking to ANI, Phoolka said, "He simply has to go to the court tomorrow and surrender. If he does not do that, then on January 1 the police will have to take him in custody and send him to Tihar Jail. This is a very big victory for the entire nation, as a mass murderer is going to be punished after years." Notably, the case against Kumar pertains to the murder of five members of a Sikh family in Delhi Cantonment area during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots aftermath of the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984. The court, which had asked the former MP Kumar to surrender before December 31, made stinging observations over the investigations and said there "appeared to be ongoing large-scale efforts to suppress cases against him". "In the summer of 1947, during partition, several people were massacred. 37 years later Delhi was the witness of a similar tragedy. The accused enjoyed political patronage and escaped trial," the court had said. It added that what happened in the aftermath of the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was "carnage of unbelievable proportions" in which over 2,700 Sikhs were murdered in Delhi alone. The victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots hailed the High Court`s verdict. Last month, an anti-Sikh riots witness and victim Cham Kaur issued a statement identifying Kumar as the instigator. Another witness named Sheela Kaur also identified him in connection with the case. In March, the Delhi High Court had received a petition containing a CD, which was stated to be Kumar's confession about accepting his role in the riots. On December 22 after the decision given by the High Court, the Congress leader filed an appeal in the Apex Court, after the High Court dismissed Kumar's plea seeking more time to surrender. In his plea, he had sought 30 additional days to surrender, on account of settling family affairs with regard to property and inheritance. Earlier on Thursday, the former parliamentarian appeared before Delhi's Patiala House Court for hearing in the second case, related to the riots, registered against him by the CBI on the recommendation of Nanavati Commission. The court has adjourned the matter till January 22. As per official records, over 2,700 Sikhs were killed across India after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984 by her Sikh bodyguards, Satwant Singh, and Beant Singh.

1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">Bangladesh polls: Voting held in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">peaceful</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553"> manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">call</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553"> for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">re poll</a>

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-diplomats-harassed-after-being-questioned-on-road-now-electricity-cut-for-4-hours-in-peak-winter-187521">Indian diplomats harassed: After being questioned on road, now electricity cut for 4 hours in peak winter</a>

After being questioned on the road for 30 minutes in Peshawar by Pakistani security agencies, another incident of harassment of Indian diplomats in Pakistan has come to fore.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-case-ex-congress-leader-sajjan-kumar-surrenders-before-delhis-karkardooma-court-187501">1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Ex-Congress leader Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail</a>

Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/4-dead-dozens-missing-after-gas-explosion-hits-russia-high-rise-187531">4 dead, dozens missing after gas explosion hits Russia high-rise</a>

Four people were killed and nearly 70 unaccounted for after a gas explosion tore through a residential building in Russia on Monday, leaving hundreds without a home in freezing temperatures on New Year's Eve.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhana-wins-icc-womens-cricketer-of-the-year-187494">India's Smriti Mandhana wins ICC women's cricketer and ODI player of the year</a>

India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has won the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year and also named as ICC Women's ODI Player of the Year.&nbsp;

Bangladesh polls: Voting held in peaceful manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects call for re poll Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide.

Bangladesh polls: Voting held in peaceful manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects call for re poll Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide. Indian diplomats harassed: After being questioned on road, now electricity cut for 4 hours in peak winter After being questioned on the road for 30 minutes in Peshawar by Pakistani security agencies, another incident of harassment of Indian diplomats in Pakistan has come to fore. 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Ex-Congress leader Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. 4 dead, dozens missing after gas explosion hits Russia high-rise Four people were killed and nearly 70 unaccounted for after a gas explosion tore through a residential building in Russia on Monday, leaving hundreds without a home in freezing temperatures on New Year's Eve. India's Smriti Mandhana wins ICC women's cricketer and ODI player of the year India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has won the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year and also named as ICC Women's ODI Player of the Year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent new year messages to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said relations between the two countries were developing in a constructive and dynamic manner.

Putin, conveying his greetings to the two leaders, also noted that agreements reached during Indo-Russia annual summit in October contributed to strengthening the privileged strategic partnership between the two nations, according to the Russian Embassy here.

In his new year messages to Kovind and Modi, the Russian president emphasised that relations between the two countries were developing in a constructive and dynamic manner, the embassy said.

"Vladimir Putin expressed confidence that joint efforts will lead to further growth of mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas and greater coordination of efforts on key issues on the regional and global agenda within the UN, BRICS, the SCO, the G20 and other multilateral bodies," it said.

In the annual summit here, India inked a $5 billion deal to purchase the much-vaunted S-400 air defence system from Russia, notwithstanding US warnings of punitive sanctions against nations doing military transactions with Moscow.

A number of other pacts were also signed following talks between Modi and Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent new year messages to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said relations between the two countries were developing in a constructive and dynamic manner.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent new year messages to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said relations between the two countries were developing in a constructive and dynamic manner. Putin, conveying his greetings to the two leaders, also noted that agreements reached during Indo-Russia annual summit in October contributed to strengthening the privileged strategic partnership between the two nations, according to the Russian Embassy here. In his new year messages to Kovind and Modi, the Russian president emphasised that relations between the two countries were developing in a constructive and dynamic manner, the embassy said. "Vladimir Putin expressed confidence that joint efforts will lead to further growth of mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas and greater coordination of efforts on key issues on the regional and global agenda within the UN, BRICS, the SCO, the G20 and other multilateral bodies," it said. In the annual summit here, India inked a $5 billion deal to purchase the much-vaunted S-400 air defence system from Russia, notwithstanding US warnings of punitive sanctions against nations doing military transactions with Moscow. A number of other pacts were also signed following talks between Modi and Putin.

Indo-Russia talks developing in a dynamic manner: Putin's New Year message to PM Modi

The Indian rupee Monday signed off the last trading session of 2018 with 18 paise gains at 69.77 per dollar but clocked a 9.23 per cent fall during the year after witnessing its one of the tumultuous years in the recent past.

On year-over-year basis, the rupee depreciated by a whopping 509 paise, or 9.23 per cent, as compared to 2017-end level of 63.87.

Forex traders, however, said fundamentals are supportive for the rupee over the next 6-12 months amid supportive growth momentum, robust forex reserves.

"Attractive real yields (net of inflation), growth momentum and robust forex reserves of $394 billion and US dollar stabilisation is likely to be positive for the INR," global financial services major Standard Chartered said in a research note.

However, in the near-term, the trend in the US dollar, oil price and ensuing general elections will determine the direction for the local unit, it noted.

The rupee opened higher at 69.76 per dollar as against Friday's closing level of 69.95 at the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market and hovered in a range of 69.95 and 69.74 before ending at 69.77 per dollar, showing a gain of 18 paise.

The rupee has gained 58 paise in the last two trading sessions.

Meanwhile, the dollar index was trading down by 0.26 per cent at 96.15 against a basket of six currencies in the late afternoon trade.

Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty Monday ended the last trading session of 2018 on a sluggish note but clocked gains for the third straight year in a row amid positive cues from global markets and strengthening rupee.

Both indices Sensex and Nifty snapped their three-session winning run and closed the final session of the calendar year with marginal losses.

The 30-share BSE index fell 8.39 points, or 0.02 per cent, to finish at 36,068.33; while the broader NSE Nifty edged lower by 2.65 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 10,862.55.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, was up 2.27 per cent at $54.42 per barrel.

Foreign funds pulled out Rs 326.87 crore from the capital markets on a net basis, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth Rs 321.98 crore Monday, provisional data showed.

The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 69.7923 and for rupee/euro at 79.7805. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 88.5488 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 63.21.&nbsp;

The Indian rupee Monday signed off the last trading session of 2018 with 18 paise gains at 69.77 per dollar but clocked a 9.23 per cent fall during the year after witnessing its one of the tumultuous years in the recent past.

The Indian rupee Monday signed off the last trading session of 2018 with 18 paise gains at 69.77 per dollar but clocked a 9.23 per cent fall during the year after witnessing its one of the tumultuous years in the recent past. On year-over-year basis, the rupee depreciated by a whopping 509 paise, or 9.23 per cent, as compared to 2017-end level of 63.87. Forex traders, however, said fundamentals are supportive for the rupee over the next 6-12 months amid supportive growth momentum, robust forex reserves. "Attractive real yields (net of inflation), growth momentum and robust forex reserves of $394 billion and US dollar stabilisation is likely to be positive for the INR," global financial services major Standard Chartered said in a research note. However, in the near-term, the trend in the US dollar, oil price and ensuing general elections will determine the direction for the local unit, it noted. The rupee opened higher at 69.76 per dollar as against Friday's closing level of 69.95 at the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market and hovered in a range of 69.95 and 69.74 before ending at 69.77 per dollar, showing a gain of 18 paise. The rupee has gained 58 paise in the last two trading sessions. Meanwhile, the dollar index was trading down by 0.26 per cent at 96.15 against a basket of six currencies in the late afternoon trade. Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty Monday ended the last trading session of 2018 on a sluggish note but clocked gains for the third straight year in a row amid positive cues from global markets and strengthening rupee. Both indices Sensex and Nifty snapped their three-session winning run and closed the final session of the calendar year with marginal losses. The 30-share BSE index fell 8.39 points, or 0.02 per cent, to finish at 36,068.33; while the broader NSE Nifty edged lower by 2.65 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 10,862.55. Brent crude, the international benchmark, was up 2.27 per cent at $54.42 per barrel. Foreign funds pulled out Rs 326.87 crore from the capital markets on a net basis, while domestic institutional investors bought shares worth Rs 321.98 crore Monday, provisional data showed. The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 69.7923 and for rupee/euro at 79.7805. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 88.5488 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 63.21.

Rupee's tumultuous year ends with 9% annual loss at 69.77 a dollar

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/veteran-actor-kader-khan-critical-put-on-ventilator-186973">Veteran actor Kader Khan</a>'s son Sarfaraz has said that his father has been admitted to a hospital in Canada, dismissing media reports of his demise.

"It is all a lie. It (is) just a rumour. My father is in the hospital," Sarfaraz told PTI.

The 81-year-old actor has developed breathing issues and the doctors have reportedly transferred him from regular ventilator to BiPAP ventilator.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Khan is suffering from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a degenerative disease that causes loss of balance, difficulty in walking and dementia.&nbsp;

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who has worked with Khan in films such as "Do Aur Do Paanch", "Muqaddar Ka Sikandar", "Mr. Natwarlal", "Suhaag", "Coolie" and "Shahenshah", took to Twitter on Friday to pray for the veteran actor's wellbeing and recovery.

"Kader Khan... Actor writer of immense talent... Lies ill in Hospital... Prayer and duas for his well being and recovery... Saw him perform on stage, welcomed him and his prolific writing for my films. Great company, a libran and many not know, taught Mathematics," Bachchan tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
T 3041 - KADER KHAN .. actor writer of immense talent .. lies ill in Hospital .. PRAYERS and DUAS for his well being and recovery .. saw him perform on stage, welcomed him and his prolific writing for my films .. great company, a Libran .. and many not know , taught Mathematics ! <a href="https://t.co/yE9SSkcPUF">pic.twitter.com/yE9SSkcPUF</a>
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SrBachchan/status/1078594795503792128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Born in Kabul, Khan made his acting debut in 1973 with Rajesh Khanna's "Daag" and has featured in over 300 films.&nbsp;

Also, he has written dialogues for over 250 movies. Before becoming an actor, he had written dialogues for Randhir Kapoor-Jaya Bachchan's "Jawani Diwani".

As a screenwriter, Khan frequently collaborated with Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra. His films with Desai include "Dharam Veer", "Ganga Jamuna Saraswati", "Coolie", "Desh Premee", "Suhaag", "Parvarish" and "Amar Akbar Anthony" and films with Mehra include "Jwalamukhi", "Sharaabi", "Lawaaris", "Muqaddar Ka Sikandar".&nbsp;

Veteran actor Kader Khan's son Sarfaraz has said that his father has been admitted to a hospital in Canada, dismissing media reports of his demise. "It is all a lie.

Veteran actor Kader Khan's son Sarfaraz has said that his father has been admitted to a hospital in Canada, dismissing media reports of his demise. "It is all a lie. It (is) just a rumour. My father is in the hospital," Sarfaraz told PTI. The 81-year-old actor has developed breathing issues and the doctors have reportedly transferred him from regular ventilator to BiPAP ventilator. Reportedly, Khan is suffering from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a degenerative disease that causes loss of balance, difficulty in walking and dementia. Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who has worked with Khan in films such as "Do Aur Do Paanch", "Muqaddar Ka Sikandar", "Mr. Natwarlal", "Suhaag", "Coolie" and "Shahenshah", took to Twitter on Friday to pray for the veteran actor's wellbeing and recovery. "Kader Khan... Actor writer of immense talent... Lies ill in Hospital... Prayer and duas for his well being and recovery... Saw him perform on stage, welcomed him and his prolific writing for my films. Great company, a libran and many not know, taught Mathematics," Bachchan tweeted. T 3041 - KADER KHAN .. actor writer of immense talent .. lies ill in Hospital .. PRAYERS and DUAS for his well being and recovery .. saw him perform on stage, welcomed him and his prolific writing for my films .. great company, a Libran .. and many not know , taught Mathematics ! pic.twitter.com/yE9SSkcPUF — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) December 28, 2018 × Born in Kabul, Khan made his acting debut in 1973 with Rajesh Khanna's "Daag" and has featured in over 300 films. Also, he has written dialogues for over 250 movies. Before becoming an actor, he had written dialogues for Randhir Kapoor-Jaya Bachchan's "Jawani Diwani". As a screenwriter, Khan frequently collaborated with Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra. His films with Desai include "Dharam Veer", "Ganga Jamuna Saraswati", "Coolie", "Desh Premee", "Suhaag", "Parvarish" and "Amar Akbar Anthony" and films with Mehra include "Jwalamukhi", "Sharaabi", "Lawaaris", "Muqaddar Ka Sikandar".

'My father is in hospital': Kader Khan's son dismisses reports of his demise

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/order-to-monitor-computers-exists-since-2009-arun-jaitley-185675">Finance Minister Arun Jaitley</a> Monday said the government was not seeking Reserve Bank surplus to meet fiscal deficit but to utilise them for accelerating poverty alleviation programmes and recapitalising the state-owned banks.

Replying to a debate on the second batch of supplementary demands for grants in the Lok Sabha, the Minister said that the Modi government has the best track record of keeping fiscal deficit under check.

The House later passed supplementary demand for grants for the current fiscal to provide additional expenditure of Rs 85,948.86 crore, about half of which is for capital infusion in public sector banks.

Referring to the issues concerning the Economic Capital Framework (ECF) of RBI, Jaitley said that central banks of most of the countries keep a reserve of 8 per cent, while some conservative central banks maintain 14 per cent reserves.

The RBI was maintaining a reserve of 28 per cent, he said, adding the expert committee will decide on the appropriate reserve of the central bank so that surplus funds could be utilised for funding poverty alleviation programmes and recapitalising the state-owned banks.

"This government has the best track record than any other previous government in managing fiscal deficit. We do not need RBI reserves to manage the fiscal deficit, Jaitley said.

He said the Modi government has brought down fiscal deficit and kept inflation and the Current Account Deficit (CAD) under check, while India retained the fastest growing economy tag for 5 years.

The Finance Minister further said that it was only during the Modi government tenure that India became the fastest growing major economy&nbsp; 
in the world, ahead of China.

Jaitley also said that demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has helped increase the tax base and allocate more funds for poverty alleviation and social sector programmes.

The number of Income Tax return filers have gone up from 3.8 crore during the UPA regime, to 6.86 crore currently.

When the NDA government completes its five-year term in 2019, the number would double from 3.83 crore, he added.

With regard to concerns expressed by some members over the agrarian situation, Jaitley said the government will take all steps to support the farmers.

"Whatever steps need to be taken at the end, the Government will take it," he said, amid sloganeering by Congress over the Rafale issue.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Monday said the government was not seeking Reserve Bank surplus to meet fiscal deficit but to utilise them for accelerating poverty alleviation programmes and recapitalising the state-owned banks.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Monday said the government was not seeking Reserve Bank surplus to meet fiscal deficit but to utilise them for accelerating poverty alleviation programmes and recapitalising the state-owned banks. Replying to a debate on the second batch of supplementary demands for grants in the Lok Sabha, the Minister said that the Modi government has the best track record of keeping fiscal deficit under check. The House later passed supplementary demand for grants for the current fiscal to provide additional expenditure of Rs 85,948.86 crore, about half of which is for capital infusion in public sector banks. Referring to the issues concerning the Economic Capital Framework (ECF) of RBI, Jaitley said that central banks of most of the countries keep a reserve of 8 per cent, while some conservative central banks maintain 14 per cent reserves. The RBI was maintaining a reserve of 28 per cent, he said, adding the expert committee will decide on the appropriate reserve of the central bank so that surplus funds could be utilised for funding poverty alleviation programmes and recapitalising the state-owned banks. "This government has the best track record than any other previous government in managing fiscal deficit. We do not need RBI reserves to manage the fiscal deficit, Jaitley said. He said the Modi government has brought down fiscal deficit and kept inflation and the Current Account Deficit (CAD) under check, while India retained the fastest growing economy tag for 5 years. The Finance Minister further said that it was only during the Modi government tenure that India became the fastest growing major economy in the world, ahead of China. Jaitley also said that demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has helped increase the tax base and allocate more funds for poverty alleviation and social sector programmes. The number of Income Tax return filers have gone up from 3.8 crore during the UPA regime, to 6.86 crore currently. When the NDA government completes its five-year term in 2019, the number would double from 3.83 crore, he added. With regard to concerns expressed by some members over the agrarian situation, Jaitley said the government will take all steps to support the farmers. "Whatever steps need to be taken at the end, the Government will take it," he said, amid sloganeering by Congress over the Rafale issue.

Government not seeking RBI reserves to meet fiscal deficit: Arun Jaitley

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said.

Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting.

Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state.

According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit.

Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity.

Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam.

It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.&nbsp;

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state. The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said. Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting. Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state. According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit. Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity. Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam. It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja: Centre approves release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479">HIV from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479">blood</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479"> transfusion</a>.

Calling it a matter of "serious concern", NCW chief Rekha Sharma wrote to Tamil Nadu Principal Secretary at the Department of Health and Family Welfare J Radhakrishnan and asked him to probe the matter. The official has been directed to send a report to the women rights body at the earliest.

A 24-year-old pregnant woman in Virudhunagar contracted HIV allegedly after being transfused contaminated blood.&nbsp;

Preliminary inquiry revealed that the blood bank staff had failed to screen the blood properly before supplying it to the private hospital. The personnel who tested the donor's blood had labelled it 'safe,' officials said.

The state government had ordered a probe and an examination of all stocks at blood banks in the state after the incident. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Commission said that a 27-year-old woman had accused doctors at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital (KMCH) of criminal negligence, alleging that she contracted the virus during a blood transfusion procedure in April.

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting HIV from blood transfusion.

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting HIV from blood transfusion. Calling it a matter of "serious concern", NCW chief Rekha Sharma wrote to Tamil Nadu Principal Secretary at the Department of Health and Family Welfare J Radhakrishnan and asked him to probe the matter. The official has been directed to send a report to the women rights body at the earliest. A 24-year-old pregnant woman in Virudhunagar contracted HIV allegedly after being transfused contaminated blood. Preliminary inquiry revealed that the blood bank staff had failed to screen the blood properly before supplying it to the private hospital. The personnel who tested the donor's blood had labelled it 'safe,' officials said. The state government had ordered a probe and an examination of all stocks at blood banks in the state after the incident. The Commission said that a 27-year-old woman had accused doctors at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital (KMCH) of criminal negligence, alleging that she contracted the virus during a blood transfusion procedure in April.

NCW seeks report from Tamil Nadu over alleged transfusion of HIV infected blood to women

Around 15,000 police personnel have been deployed across the national capital to ensure celebrations go off smoothly on New Year's Eve, with special traffic arrangements made to regulate movement of revellers, police said.

A special focus has been given to Connaught Place and the areas around it.&nbsp;

All vehicular movement will be restricted from 8 pm onwards to the posh commercial hub till the celebrations conclude, they said.

Also, in view of security measures, exit facility at the Rajiv Chowk metro station will not be available for commuters from 9 pm onwards.

Rajiv Chowk, located adjacent to Connaught Place and one of the busiest&nbsp;stations of the Delhi Metro, caters to both the Blue Line and the Yellow Line.

A large number of revellers converge at Connaught Place to ring in the new year with celebrations every year.

"Vehicular traffic in the inner, middle or outer circle of Connaught Place will not be allowed," BK Singh, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) said.

To ensure that women safety is not compromised, women police personnel will also be deployed in plain clothes at various strategic locations across the city, Madhur Verma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said.

"We have deployed around 15,000 police personnel across Delhi to maintain the law and order situation on the eve of New Year to ensure that the celebrations go smoothly," Verma said.

Any incident of hooliganism and drunk driving will be dealt strictly, he added.

Special picket team including traffic police, PCR and woman personal will be deployed at various locations to ensure that no untoward incident happens, he said.

Maximum police personnel will be deployed at crowded places like malls, markets and metro stations, the officer said.

Senior officers will closely monitor the situation at district-level. Fire tenders will be on patrolling duty around popular party hubs to ensure that there is no delay in helping people in case of any incident, police said.

"As advised by Delhi Police authorities, exit of passengers from the Rajiv Chowk metro station will not be permitted from 9 PM onwards on New Year's Eve, i.E., December 31. This is to enable the authorities to maintain peace, and law and order during New Year Eve's celebrations in New Delhi district area," Delhi Metro said in a statement.

However, passengers will be allowed to enter the Rajiv Chowk metro station after 9 pm to board trains, it said.

"Interchange facility between Line-2 (HUDA City Centre - Samaypur Badli) and Line-3/4 (Dwarka Sec-21 - NOIDA City Centre/Vaishali) will continue as usual at the Rajiv Chowk metro station till the end of services. Services at all other metro corridors and stations will continue normally," it said.

Hotels and restaurants where parties will be organised have also been briefed about the preventive measures to be taken, officials said.

Officials said a special drive against drunk driving, jumping signals and dangerous driving will be undertaken by the traffic police.

According to the traffic advisory, vehicles will not be allowed to proceed towards Connaught Place beyond roundabout of Mandi House, roundabout of Bengali Market, north foot of Ranjit Singh Flyover, Minto Road, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg crossing, Chelmsford Road near Munje Chowk (New Delhi Railway Station), RK Ashram Marg-Chitragupta, roundabout of Gole Market, roundabout of GPO, Patel Chowk, Kasturba Gandhi Road-Ferozshah Road Crossing, Jai Singh Road-Bangla Sahib Lane and the roundabout of Windsor Place.

Motorists can park their vehicles at only specific places in the vicinity of Connaught Place, which includes certain locations near Gole Dak Khana, Patel Chowk on Rakab Ganj Road behind AIR, near Mandi House on Copernicus Marg up to Baroda house, near Minto Road on DD Upadhaya Marg and Press Road area, Panchkuian Road on RK Ashram Marg, Chitragupta Road and Basant Road towards Paharganj, KG Marg near Ferozshah Road or KG Marg to 'C' Hexagon and near Windsor Place.

Alternative routes have been arranged for commuters travelling to New Delhi railway station. However, routes to Old Delhi railway station will not be affected, officials said.

Special traffic arrangements have also been made at Saket, Greater Kailash, Lajpat Nagar, New Friends Colony, Hauz Khas, Defence Colony, Vasant Vihar, RK Puram, Nehru Place, Dwarka, Palam Airport, Rajouri Garden, Ashok Vihar, Model Town and Mayur Vihar.

The police has advised motorists to use alternative routes available for North-South directions which includes Ring Road from ISBT to Ashram or via Delhi Gate, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Mathura Road to reach Ashram and via vice-versa or via ISBT, Rani Jhansi Marg, Punchkuyan Road, Mandir Marg, Park Street, Mother Teresa Crescent Road and beyond or via Rani Jhansi Marg, Punchkuyan Road, Hanuman Murti and Ring Road.

"For East-West Movement - Ring Road, Bhairon Road, 'C' Hexagon-India Gate, Akbar Road, Mother Teresa Crescent, roundabout of RML, Park Street and Shankar Road have been suggested," officials said.&nbsp;

Around 15,000 police personnel have been deployed across the national capital to ensure celebrations go off smoothly on New Year's Eve, with special traffic arrangements made to regulate movement of revellers, police said.

Around 15,000 police personnel have been deployed across the national capital to ensure celebrations go off smoothly on New Year's Eve, with special traffic arrangements made to regulate movement of revellers, police said. A special focus has been given to Connaught Place and the areas around it. All vehicular movement will be restricted from 8 pm onwards to the posh commercial hub till the celebrations conclude, they said. Also, in view of security measures, exit facility at the Rajiv Chowk metro station will not be available for commuters from 9 pm onwards. Rajiv Chowk, located adjacent to Connaught Place and one of the busiest stations of the Delhi Metro, caters to both the Blue Line and the Yellow Line. A large number of revellers converge at Connaught Place to ring in the new year with celebrations every year. "Vehicular traffic in the inner, middle or outer circle of Connaught Place will not be allowed," BK Singh, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) said. To ensure that women safety is not compromised, women police personnel will also be deployed in plain clothes at various strategic locations across the city, Madhur Verma, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said. "We have deployed around 15,000 police personnel across Delhi to maintain the law and order situation on the eve of New Year to ensure that the celebrations go smoothly," Verma said. Any incident of hooliganism and drunk driving will be dealt strictly, he added. Special picket team including traffic police, PCR and woman personal will be deployed at various locations to ensure that no untoward incident happens, he said. Maximum police personnel will be deployed at crowded places like malls, markets and metro stations, the officer said. Senior officers will closely monitor the situation at district-level. Fire tenders will be on patrolling duty around popular party hubs to ensure that there is no delay in helping people in case of any incident, police said. "As advised by Delhi Police authorities, exit of passengers from the Rajiv Chowk metro station will not be permitted from 9 PM onwards on New Year's Eve, i.E., December 31. This is to enable the authorities to maintain peace, and law and order during New Year Eve's celebrations in New Delhi district area," Delhi Metro said in a statement. However, passengers will be allowed to enter the Rajiv Chowk metro station after 9 pm to board trains, it said. "Interchange facility between Line-2 (HUDA City Centre - Samaypur Badli) and Line-3/4 (Dwarka Sec-21 - NOIDA City Centre/Vaishali) will continue as usual at the Rajiv Chowk metro station till the end of services. Services at all other metro corridors and stations will continue normally," it said. Hotels and restaurants where parties will be organised have also been briefed about the preventive measures to be taken, officials said. Officials said a special drive against drunk driving, jumping signals and dangerous driving will be undertaken by the traffic police. According to the traffic advisory, vehicles will not be allowed to proceed towards Connaught Place beyond roundabout of Mandi House, roundabout of Bengali Market, north foot of Ranjit Singh Flyover, Minto Road, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg crossing, Chelmsford Road near Munje Chowk (New Delhi Railway Station), RK Ashram Marg-Chitragupta, roundabout of Gole Market, roundabout of GPO, Patel Chowk, Kasturba Gandhi Road-Ferozshah Road Crossing, Jai Singh Road-Bangla Sahib Lane and the roundabout of Windsor Place. Motorists can park their vehicles at only specific places in the vicinity of Connaught Place, which includes certain locations near Gole Dak Khana, Patel Chowk on Rakab Ganj Road behind AIR, near Mandi House on Copernicus Marg up to Baroda house, near Minto Road on DD Upadhaya Marg and Press Road area, Panchkuian Road on RK Ashram Marg, Chitragupta Road and Basant Road towards Paharganj, KG Marg near Ferozshah Road or KG Marg to 'C' Hexagon and near Windsor Place. Alternative routes have been arranged for commuters travelling to New Delhi railway station. However, routes to Old Delhi railway station will not be affected, officials said. Special traffic arrangements have also been made at Saket, Greater Kailash, Lajpat Nagar, New Friends Colony, Hauz Khas, Defence Colony, Vasant Vihar, RK Puram, Nehru Place, Dwarka, Palam Airport, Rajouri Garden, Ashok Vihar, Model Town and Mayur Vihar. The police has advised motorists to use alternative routes available for North-South directions which includes Ring Road from ISBT to Ashram or via Delhi Gate, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Mathura Road to reach Ashram and via vice-versa or via ISBT, Rani Jhansi Marg, Punchkuyan Road, Mandir Marg, Park Street, Mother Teresa Crescent Road and beyond or via Rani Jhansi Marg, Punchkuyan Road, Hanuman Murti and Ring Road. "For East-West Movement - Ring Road, Bhairon Road, 'C' Hexagon-India Gate, Akbar Road, Mother Teresa Crescent, roundabout of RML, Park Street and Shankar Road have been suggested," officials said.

New Year's Eve: 15,000 cops deployed across Delhi, no exit at Rajiv Chowk metro from 9 pm

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep".

In a series of tweets, Shah also asked if Michel wanted details of his questioning by investigators to be passed onto "Mrs Gandhi".

"Trails of the AgustaWestland Case?the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs Gandhi to his lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs Gandhi herself? Why?" he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Trails of the AgustaWestland Case…the SOS of Christian Michel. 
 
Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs. Gandhi to his Lawyer?&nbsp; 
 
Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs. Gandhi herself? Why?
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651578670399488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shah said Michel's lawyer had admitted that the alleged middleman indeed passed paper to him and claimed that he thought it was a list of medicines.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Michel’s lawyer has admitted that the paper was indeed passed on to him. He thought that it was a list of medicines, which could have been transparently given in any case.&nbsp; 
 
We have heard of Zandu Balm and Tiger Balm but what is this ‘Family Balm’ that every middleman wants?
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651611763445763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The BJP president took an apparent swipe at the Gandhi family, saying people have heard of Zandu balm and Tiger balm -- medicines used to relieve pain -- but what is this "family balm" that every middleman wants.

"In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel's lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a sham. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs Gandhi!" Shah said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel’s lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a SHAM. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs. Gandhi!
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651679996399616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Congress had expelled Aljo K Joseph, an office bearer in its youth wing, after he appeared as a counsel for Michel.

"In national interest, Michel's lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep," Shah said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In national interest, Michel’s lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs. Gandhi. 
 
Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651737420603393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A Delhi court had Saturday imposed restrictions on Michel, the alleged middleman in the purchase of VVIP choppers during the UPA's tenure, meeting his lawyers in Enforcement Directorate's custody. The directions were given after the probe agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi".

The agency also claimed that he has spoken about "son of an Italian lady" and taken "Mrs Gandhi's" name in reference to a query.

The BJP has used this disclosure to attack the Congress, especially the Gandhi family.

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep".

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep". In a series of tweets, Shah also asked if Michel wanted details of his questioning by investigators to be passed onto "Mrs Gandhi". "Trails of the AgustaWestland Case?the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs Gandhi to his lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs Gandhi herself? Why?" he tweeted. Trails of the AgustaWestland Case…the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs. Gandhi to his Lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs. Gandhi herself? Why? — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × Shah said Michel's lawyer had admitted that the alleged middleman indeed passed paper to him and claimed that he thought it was a list of medicines. Michel’s lawyer has admitted that the paper was indeed passed on to him. He thought that it was a list of medicines, which could have been transparently given in any case. We have heard of Zandu Balm and Tiger Balm but what is this ‘Family Balm’ that every middleman wants? — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × The BJP president took an apparent swipe at the Gandhi family, saying people have heard of Zandu balm and Tiger balm -- medicines used to relieve pain -- but what is this "family balm" that every middleman wants. "In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel's lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a sham. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs Gandhi!" Shah said. In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel’s lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a SHAM. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs. Gandhi! — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × The Congress had expelled Aljo K Joseph, an office bearer in its youth wing, after he appeared as a counsel for Michel. "In national interest, Michel's lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep," Shah said. In national interest, Michel’s lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs. Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × A Delhi court had Saturday imposed restrictions on Michel, the alleged middleman in the purchase of VVIP choppers during the UPA's tenure, meeting his lawyers in Enforcement Directorate's custody. The directions were given after the probe agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi". The agency also claimed that he has spoken about "son of an Italian lady" and taken "Mrs Gandhi's" name in reference to a query. The BJP has used this disclosure to attack the Congress, especially the Gandhi family.

Friendship between one family and Christian Michel 'time-tested and deep': Amit Shah

Former defence minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony Monday accused the BJP and the government of "manufacturing" lies in the AgustaWestland case and said Sonia Gandhi and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sad-slams-rahul-gandhi-amarinder-for-betraying-farmers-in-punjab-186896">Rahul Gandhi</a> never interfered in any defence deals during the UPA regime.

"The Government and the BJP are misusing agencies to manufacture lies. I am surprised to know that the present government is spreading lies....Is trying to manufacture something out of nothing," Antony said.

"I would like to say categorically that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi never showed any interest ... Never interfered in the AgustaWestland deal. During my entire tenure as defence minister, Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deals," he told reporters.

Addressing a press conference in Parliament, he said, "Without any iota of truth, they are trying to follow vendetta politics." His comments came after the Congress and the BJP were engaged in a slugfest on Sunday.

While the opposition party alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government were AgustaWestland's protectors and promoters, the saffron party accused it of defending Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the deal, and asked why it was scared of a probe into the case.

The former defence minister said it was the Congress-led UPA government that ordered a CBI inquiry the moment it came to know of corruption allegations in the VVIP AgustaWestland helicopter deal and initiated proceedings to blacklist the company.

Antony claimed that the UPA government fought the case "unusually" in a Milan court against the chopper-making company and won it too.

"We cancelled the contract and started proceedings of blacklisting. But after we left, the Modi government did nothing against AgustaWestland. Instead of acting against the company, they favoured the company," he said.

Antony said if the Congress had anything to hide, it would not have ordered a CBI probe or gone to Italy to fight the case.

The senior Congress leader alleged that the government and the BJP were trying to divert attention from the allegations raised by his party on the Rafale fighter jet deal and were not initiating an inquiry into the matter or a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to probe the charges.

"During our time, whenever there were allegations, even in media reports, we took action and held an inquiry," he said while attacking the BJP government for not ordering a JPC probe into the Rafale deal.

On the BJP's charges of the Congress being jittery ever since Michel was extradited to India, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said this was like "chor machaye shor" (the thief is making noise).

Former defence minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony Monday accused the BJP and the government of "manufacturing" lies in the AgustaWestland case and said Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deals during the UPA regime.

Former defence minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony Monday accused the BJP and the government of "manufacturing" lies in the AgustaWestland case and said Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deals during the UPA regime. "The Government and the BJP are misusing agencies to manufacture lies. I am surprised to know that the present government is spreading lies....Is trying to manufacture something out of nothing," Antony said. "I would like to say categorically that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi never showed any interest ... Never interfered in the AgustaWestland deal. During my entire tenure as defence minister, Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deals," he told reporters. Addressing a press conference in Parliament, he said, "Without any iota of truth, they are trying to follow vendetta politics." His comments came after the Congress and the BJP were engaged in a slugfest on Sunday. While the opposition party alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government were AgustaWestland's protectors and promoters, the saffron party accused it of defending Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the deal, and asked why it was scared of a probe into the case. The former defence minister said it was the Congress-led UPA government that ordered a CBI inquiry the moment it came to know of corruption allegations in the VVIP AgustaWestland helicopter deal and initiated proceedings to blacklist the company. Antony claimed that the UPA government fought the case "unusually" in a Milan court against the chopper-making company and won it too. "We cancelled the contract and started proceedings of blacklisting. But after we left, the Modi government did nothing against AgustaWestland. Instead of acting against the company, they favoured the company," he said. Antony said if the Congress had anything to hide, it would not have ordered a CBI probe or gone to Italy to fight the case. The senior Congress leader alleged that the government and the BJP were trying to divert attention from the allegations raised by his party on the Rafale fighter jet deal and were not initiating an inquiry into the matter or a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to probe the charges. "During our time, whenever there were allegations, even in media reports, we took action and held an inquiry," he said while attacking the BJP government for not ordering a JPC probe into the Rafale deal. On the BJP's charges of the Congress being jittery ever since Michel was extradited to India, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said this was like "chor machaye shor" (the thief is making noise).

Sonia, Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deal: A K Antony

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-will-ruin-families-will-launch-agitation-against-it-aimwplb-187352">Triple Talaq Bill </a>in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament.

The Bill, which proposes to criminalize the practice of Muslims men giving divorce to their wives by uttering the word "Talaq" thrice in quick succession, was passed by Lok Sabha three days back. It needs to be passed by the Rajya Sabha to become a law.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was slated to be taken up by the Rajya Sabha this afternoon for consideration and passing.&nbsp;

However, as soon as an effort was made to take this Bill up, an uproar erupted in the house.

TMC leader Derek O Brien said all opposition parties unanimously want the Bill to be sent to a select committee for proper scrutiny.&nbsp;

Echoing similar sentiments, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, said, "This is such an important bill which can positively or negatively affect the lives of crores of people can`t be passed just like this without going to a select committee."

As the House was not in order, deputy chairman Harivansh adjourned the house for 15 minutes. But when the House reconvened, uproar continued.&nbsp;

Congress leader Anand Sharma said that legislative scrutiny was critical of the Bill before it could be taken up by the house. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affair Vijay Goel attacked the opposition for stalling the Bill, saying they had no sympathy for the Muslim women.&nbsp;

Amid the uproar, Harivansh adjourned the house for the day.

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant Triple Talaq Bill in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament.

A united Opposition on Monday thwarted the government's attempt to push the instant Triple Talaq Bill in the Rajya Sabha as it insisted on referring it to the select committee of Parliament. The Bill, which proposes to criminalize the practice of Muslims men giving divorce to their wives by uttering the word "Talaq" thrice in quick succession, was passed by Lok Sabha three days back. It needs to be passed by the Rajya Sabha to become a law. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was slated to be taken up by the Rajya Sabha this afternoon for consideration and passing. However, as soon as an effort was made to take this Bill up, an uproar erupted in the house. TMC leader Derek O Brien said all opposition parties unanimously want the Bill to be sent to a select committee for proper scrutiny. Echoing similar sentiments, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, said, "This is such an important bill which can positively or negatively affect the lives of crores of people can`t be passed just like this without going to a select committee." As the House was not in order, deputy chairman Harivansh adjourned the house for 15 minutes. But when the House reconvened, uproar continued. Congress leader Anand Sharma said that legislative scrutiny was critical of the Bill before it could be taken up by the house. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affair Vijay Goel attacked the opposition for stalling the Bill, saying they had no sympathy for the Muslim women. Amid the uproar, Harivansh adjourned the house for the day.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till January 2, opposition stalls triple talaq bill

In pics: Meghalaya Miners' Rescue Operation

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir? A group of friends have set up a PUBG-theme cafe named 'Winner's Dinner' in the summer capital of the state, Srinagar.&nbsp;

PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds has taken the gaming sector by storm with over 100 million downloads in India and over 200 million downloads worldwide. The popular mobile game has become an instant hit since it was launched on mobile phones around the globe in March 2018.&nbsp;

The cafe is decorated with camouflage clothes and war room tables, even the pans have been specially designed based on the game. Cafe walls have been covered with the images and maps of PUBG.

Once you enter the cafe, guns, helmets and jackets welcome you. Most of the people who visit here wear them to take pictures. The idea of starting the cafe came to the owners while they were playing the game. They say it has been an instant hit in the valley.&nbsp;

"We were playing PUBG and suddenly decided to open this theme-based cafe. Initially, we had to struggle because of the situation here, but with the help of our parents we managed this," says Human Javaid, co-owner of the cafe.&nbsp;

Getting the support of their parents wasn't easy. The idea which looked bizarre is now a success story in a state like Jammu and Kashmir where frequent shutdowns and curfew can spell disaster for the business sector.&nbsp;

'Chicken dinner'&nbsp;is a popular meal here, apart from other food items that have been named after different levels of the game. These friends managed to set up this cafe in just three months. The theme-based cafe is attracting kids and adults alike to visit and feel the thrill.

"I am playing this game from last one year. When I came to know that there is a PUBG cafe, I came here. The interiors are beautiful," said Nasir, a frequent visitor to the cafe.&nbsp;

Similar cafes base on PUBG have opened up in several parts of the world including China. As per reports, more than 33 per cent Indians engage in mobile gaming and this game has already been named the best game of 2018 on Google Play. PUBG championships are now being held in several parts of the country with heavy cash prices and chicken dinner to win.&nbsp;

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir?

Who would have thought that a mobile game called PUBG would become so popular that it would inspire people to open up a cafe in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir? A group of friends have set up a PUBG-theme cafe named 'Winner's Dinner' in the summer capital of the state, Srinagar. PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds has taken the gaming sector by storm with over 100 million downloads in India and over 200 million downloads worldwide. The popular mobile game has become an instant hit since it was launched on mobile phones around the globe in March 2018. The cafe is decorated with camouflage clothes and war room tables, even the pans have been specially designed based on the game. Cafe walls have been covered with the images and maps of PUBG. Once you enter the cafe, guns, helmets and jackets welcome you. Most of the people who visit here wear them to take pictures. The idea of starting the cafe came to the owners while they were playing the game. They say it has been an instant hit in the valley. "We were playing PUBG and suddenly decided to open this theme-based cafe. Initially, we had to struggle because of the situation here, but with the help of our parents we managed this," says Human Javaid, co-owner of the cafe. Getting the support of their parents wasn't easy. The idea which looked bizarre is now a success story in a state like Jammu and Kashmir where frequent shutdowns and curfew can spell disaster for the business sector. 'Chicken dinner' is a popular meal here, apart from other food items that have been named after different levels of the game. These friends managed to set up this cafe in just three months. The theme-based cafe is attracting kids and adults alike to visit and feel the thrill. "I am playing this game from last one year. When I came to know that there is a PUBG cafe, I came here. The interiors are beautiful," said Nasir, a frequent visitor to the cafe. Similar cafes base on PUBG have opened up in several parts of the world including China. As per reports, more than 33 per cent Indians engage in mobile gaming and this game has already been named the best game of 2018 on Google Play. PUBG championships are now being held in several parts of the country with heavy cash prices and chicken dinner to win.

Kashmir gets its own PUBG-theme cafe in Srinagar

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/3-year-prison-for-triple-talaq-in-india-7125">Triple talaq Bill </a>that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Amid a walkout by some Opposition parties, the bill was passed in Lok Sabha with the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday.

Reportedly, both Congress and BJP have asked their members to present in the Upper House during the discussion and debate on the contentious triple talaq bill.

Calculating the Lok Sabha's environment during the passing of the bill, it seems that some opposition parties are likely to show resistance against the bill and stick to their demand of sending it to a Joint Select Committee for proper assessment.

The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession.&nbsp;

Also, police have registered hundreds of complaints made by the affected women against the practice.

Elaborating about the bill in the Lower House, Prasad said: "The bill makes the offence of instant t<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-why-objections-of-aimplb-on-triple-talaq-is-not-valid-28450">riple talaq</a> compoundable, which means that the case can be withdrawn if the man and his estranged wife reach a compromise."The Law Minister further emphasised that the bill was "not against any community, religion or belief," adding that twenty Islamic nations have banned triple talaq, then why can't a secular nation like India".

Some Opposition parties, including the Congress, AIADMK and TMC, had staged a walk out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand for sending it to a Joint Select Committee was not accepted.

However, other Opposition parties like RSP, AIMIM and BJD did not walk out of the House but moved some amendments which were negated.BJD leader B Mahtab appreciated the government for toning down the provisions in the initial legislation.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said that the bill should be sent to a Joint Select Committee of Parliament for a detailed assessment. He suggested that such a committee could be asked to submit its report within 15 days."This is a very important bill which needs detailed study. It is also a constitutional matter. I request the bill be sent to joint select committee" he added.

Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay also pressed for sending the bill to a Select Committee, as did AIADMK's P Venugopal.

Samajwadi Party's Dharmendra Yadav said triple talaq was a social issue and the BJP was trying to politicise the matter.

NCP's Supriya Sule also said that the issue was social and should not be converted into a political issue.&nbsp;

The Triple talaq Bill that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

The Triple talaq Bill that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Amid a walkout by some Opposition parties, the bill was passed in Lok Sabha with the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday. Reportedly, both Congress and BJP have asked their members to present in the Upper House during the discussion and debate on the contentious triple talaq bill. Calculating the Lok Sabha's environment during the passing of the bill, it seems that some opposition parties are likely to show resistance against the bill and stick to their demand of sending it to a Joint Select Committee for proper assessment. The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession. Also, police have registered hundreds of complaints made by the affected women against the practice. Elaborating about the bill in the Lower House, Prasad said: "The bill makes the offence of instant triple talaq compoundable, which means that the case can be withdrawn if the man and his estranged wife reach a compromise."The Law Minister further emphasised that the bill was "not against any community, religion or belief," adding that twenty Islamic nations have banned triple talaq, then why can't a secular nation like India". Some Opposition parties, including the Congress, AIADMK and TMC, had staged a walk out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand for sending it to a Joint Select Committee was not accepted. However, other Opposition parties like RSP, AIMIM and BJD did not walk out of the House but moved some amendments which were negated.BJD leader B Mahtab appreciated the government for toning down the provisions in the initial legislation. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said that the bill should be sent to a Joint Select Committee of Parliament for a detailed assessment. He suggested that such a committee could be asked to submit its report within 15 days."This is a very important bill which needs detailed study. It is also a constitutional matter. I request the bill be sent to joint select committee" he added. Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay also pressed for sending the bill to a Select Committee, as did AIADMK's P Venugopal. Samajwadi Party's Dharmendra Yadav said triple talaq was a social issue and the BJP was trying to politicise the matter. NCP's Supriya Sule also said that the issue was social and should not be converted into a political issue.

Triple talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-holds-meeting-ahead-of-tabling-of-triple-talaq-bill-in-rajya-sabha-187446">Triple talaq bill</a> will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday.

Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm.

As soon as papers were laid, AIADMK members had trooped into the well of House raising the Cauvery issue and shouting slogans "We want Justice". Some DMK members too were on their feet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinterSession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinterSession</a> : Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm after uproar by opposition over different issues. <a href="https://t.co/mATsfybsZl">pic.twitter.com/mATsfybsZl</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079615152494764034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, PM Modi also held a high-level meeting with Party President&nbsp;Amit Shah, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss the&nbsp;triple talaq bill.&nbsp;

The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill.

The opposition has been demanding to send the bill to an 11-member Select Committee for further assessment after its passage from the Lok Sabha last week.

The Trinamool Congress has already moved&nbsp;for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha.

The bill, that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday with&nbsp;the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday.

The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Triple talaq bill will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday. Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm.

The Triple talaq bill will be tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the second proceedings of the House on Monday. Amid the huge uproar by the opposition over the bill and other issues, the Deputy Chairman had earlier called off the parliament proceedings and adjourned the upper house of the Parliament till 2 pm. As soon as papers were laid, AIADMK members had trooped into the well of House raising the Cauvery issue and shouting slogans "We want Justice". Some DMK members too were on their feet. #WinterSession : Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm after uproar by opposition over different issues. pic.twitter.com/mATsfybsZl — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × Meanwhile, PM Modi also held a high-level meeting with Party President Amit Shah, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss the triple talaq bill. The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill. The opposition has been demanding to send the bill to an 11-member Select Committee for further assessment after its passage from the Lok Sabha last week. The Trinamool Congress has already moved for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha. The bill, that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday with the support of 245 votes against 11 on Thursday. The government brought the measure after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed as unconstitutional the practice that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives by simply uttering the word 'talaq' three times in quick succession. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha resumes discussion on crucial triple talaq bill

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news

ISIS module case: NIA conducts follow-up search at 5 locations in Uttar Pradesh

Sabarimala row: Lakhs of women to form 620 km-long 'Women's Wall' in Kerala today

Bulandshahr violence: UP Police arrests man who attacked inspector Kumar with axe

Government appoints Sudhir Bhargava as new Chief Information Commissioner

Chilly morning in Delhi, minimum temperature at 3.6 degree Celsius

Gehlot approves amendments in Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, increases age cap for judicial service

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers return without any trace of trapped miners

News brief: Big stories of the day

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail

Might have to reconsider support to Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan govts: Mayawati

1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today

News brief: Big stories of the day

Indo-Russia talks developing in a dynamic manner: Putin's New Year message to PM Modi

Rupee's tumultuous year ends with 9% annual loss at 69.77 a dollar

'My father is in hospital': Kader Khan's son dismisses reports of his demise

Government not seeking RBI reserves to meet fiscal deficit: Arun Jaitley

Cyclone Gaja: Centre approves release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu

NCW seeks report from Tamil Nadu over alleged transfusion of HIV infected blood to women

New Year's Eve: 15,000 cops deployed across Delhi, no exit at Rajiv Chowk metro from 9 pm

Friendship between one family and Christian Michel 'time-tested and deep': Amit Shah

Sonia, Rahul Gandhi never interfered in any defence deal: A K Antony

Rajya Sabha adjourned till January 2, opposition stalls triple talaq bill

In pics: Meghalaya Miners' Rescue Operation

Kashmir gets its own PUBG-theme cafe in Srinagar

Triple talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today

Rajya Sabha resumes discussion on crucial triple talaq bill