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The opposition is expected to oppose the t<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-to-be-tabled-in-rajya-sabha-today-187412">riple talaq bill in the Rajya Sabha</a> today as the government plans to table The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018&nbsp;in the upper house of the Parliament.

The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill.

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Meeting of opposition parties underway in Rajya Sabha LoP Ghulam Nabi Azad's chamber in Parliament <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinterSession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinterSession</a> <a href="https://t.co/gyjpmDG8Ea">pic.twitter.com/gyjpmDG8Ea</a>
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While the Trinamool Congress has already moved&nbsp;for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha, the Congress and the SP may stage a walkout in case their demands remain&nbsp;unheard, reports said.

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TMC moves a motion for reference of The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TripleTalaqBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TripleTalaqBill</a>), as passed by Lok Sabha, to a Select Committee of Rajya Sabha. <a href="https://t.co/qGvivKEpSh">pic.twitter.com/qGvivKEpSh</a>
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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 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.

As per reports, both Congress and BJP have asked their members to be present in the Upper House during the discussion on the contentious bill today.

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 opposition is expected to oppose the triple talaq bill in the Rajya Sabha today as the government plans to table The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 in the upper house of the Parliament.

The opposition is expected to oppose the triple talaq bill in the Rajya Sabha today as the government plans to table The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 in the upper house of the Parliament. The leaders of the opposition parties, earlier today, held a meeting in the Rajya Sabha ahead of the tabling of the bill. Meeting of opposition parties underway in Rajya Sabha LoP Ghulam Nabi Azad's chamber in Parliament #WinterSession pic.twitter.com/gyjpmDG8Ea — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × While the Trinamool Congress has already moved for the reference of the bill to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha, the Congress and the SP may stage a walkout in case their demands remain unheard, reports said. TMC moves a motion for reference of The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 (#TripleTalaqBill), as passed by Lok Sabha, to a Select Committee of Rajya Sabha. pic.twitter.com/qGvivKEpSh — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × 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 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. As per reports, both Congress and BJP have asked their members to be present in the Upper House during the discussion on the contentious bill today. 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)

Triple talaq bill in Rajya Sabha today: Opposition parties likely to oppose

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy conducted a survey of the mine using Under Water Remotely Vehicle (UWROV) earlier today.&nbsp;

The Navy has requested Meghalaya district administration to assist in the dewatering of the mine to facilitate diving operations.&nbsp;

The NDRF is available on the site with two teams to provide all possible support and assistance to other agencies including the Navy.&nbsp;

On the 18th day of rescue operation, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-divers-to-make-another-attempt-today-with-specialised-equipment-187453">Navy divers will attempt diving again </a>today with sophisticated equipment called drager.&nbsp;

Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck.&nbsp;

However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck out water from the nearby shafts.&nbsp;

Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-divers-to-make-another-attempt-today-with-specialised-equipment-187453">15 miners have been trapped</a> in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya.

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya. The Indian Navy conducted a survey of the mine using Under Water Remotely Vehicle (UWROV) earlier today. The Navy has requested Meghalaya district administration to assist in the dewatering of the mine to facilitate diving operations. The NDRF is available on the site with two teams to provide all possible support and assistance to other agencies including the Navy. On the 18th day of rescue operation, Navy divers will attempt diving again today with sophisticated equipment called drager. Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck. However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck out water from the nearby shafts. Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning. 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Indian Navy, NDRF begin joint operation; Navy divers to make fresh attempt

Adorable lion cub trio bring delight to Indian zoo

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice.

In a notification, the Home Ministry said the central government is of the opinion that the area comprising the whole of state of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of civilian power is necessary.

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (No. 28 of 1958), the central government hereby declares that whole of the said state to be a 'disturbed area' for a period of six months with effect from 30th December, 2018, for the purpose of that Act," the notification said.

A home ministry official said the decision to continue the declaration of Nagaland as "disturbed area" has been taken as killings, loot and extortion have been going on in various parts of the state which necessitated the action for the convenience of the security forces operating there.

There have been demands from various organisations in the Northeast as well as in Jammu and Kashmir for repealing the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which, they say, gives "sweeping powers" to security forces.

The AFSPA has been in force in Nagaland for several decades. It has not been withdrawn even after a framework agreement was signed on August 3, 2015 by Naga insurgent group NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and government interlocutor R N Ravi in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations spanning 18 years with the first breakthrough in 1997 when the ceasefire agreement was sealed after decades of insurgency in Nagaland.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice.

The entire state of Nagaland has been declared "disturbed area" for six more months, till June-end, under the controversial AFSPA, which empowers security forces to conduct operations anywhere and arrest anyone without any prior notice. In a notification, the Home Ministry said the central government is of the opinion that the area comprising the whole of state of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of civilian power is necessary. "Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (No. 28 of 1958), the central government hereby declares that whole of the said state to be a 'disturbed area' for a period of six months with effect from 30th December, 2018, for the purpose of that Act," the notification said. A home ministry official said the decision to continue the declaration of Nagaland as "disturbed area" has been taken as killings, loot and extortion have been going on in various parts of the state which necessitated the action for the convenience of the security forces operating there. There have been demands from various organisations in the Northeast as well as in Jammu and Kashmir for repealing the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which, they say, gives "sweeping powers" to security forces. The AFSPA has been in force in Nagaland for several decades. It has not been withdrawn even after a framework agreement was signed on August 3, 2015 by Naga insurgent group NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and government interlocutor R N Ravi in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations spanning 18 years with the first breakthrough in 1997 when the ceasefire agreement was sealed after decades of insurgency in Nagaland.

Entire Nagaland declared 'disturbed' for six more months under AFSPA

The 9.7-km Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 corridor of the Delhi Metro's Pink Line was inaugurated by Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri here on Monday, which directly connects south and east Delhi on the rapid transit network.

The new segment is part of the 59-km-long Pink Line, which spans from Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar. According to a senior official, passenger services on the corridor will commence from 4 pm.

"This is the sixth time a metro corridor has been inaugurated this year, which is truly a great achievement. The work on the Phase-III of the DMRC has been almost completed with nearly 96 km of it being made operational this year," the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) said.

This extension of the Pink Line, part of the Phase-III of the DMRC network, was inaugurated jointly by Puri and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia from Metro Bhawan.

Only a 1.4-km stretch between Mayur Vihar Pocket-1 and Trilokpuri Sanjay Lake stations of the Pink Line remain to be linked.

The Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 corridor has five stations -- Lajpat Nagar, Vinobapuri, Ashram, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Mayur Vihar Ph-I and Mayur Vihar Pocket-1.

Mayur Vihar Ph-I and Mayur Vihar Pocket-1 are elevated stations and the rest are underground, the official said.

This section has one interchange station, Mayur Vihar Ph-1. The facility of interchange of metro trains between line seven and line 3/4 is available through this station.

"South and east Delhi have now been connected directly on the network and commuters can save time by using it, who otherwise had to rely on road transport or a longer route on the Delhi Metro," Puri said.

"The new Mayur Vihar Ph-1 station is an engineering marvel as it has been constructed on a narrow road with only 13 metres of width. The viaduct adjacent to the station passes at a height of 23 metre and goes above the Dwarka&nbsp;Noida Blue Line viaduct as well as a road flyover. The new station has a length of 140 metre and has 11 escalators and six lifts," the DMRC said.

Trains will operate between Majlis Park and Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 at a peak hour frequency of 5 minutes and 12 seconds. During the non-peak hours, the frequency will be five minutes and 45 seconds.

A total 29 trains will be operational on this line, officials said.

The Hazrat Nizamuddin Metro station on the Majlis Park Shiv Vihar Pink Corridor of Delhi Metro's Phase-3 will become one of the metro network's major transit hubs as the station would provide direct connectivity with the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station as well as the Sarai Kale Khan Inter State Bus Terminus.

"The station will have dedicated entry/exit points connecting to the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station and the ISBT at Sarai Kale Khan. One of the entry/exit points will be within a vicinity of 50 metre from the Sarai Kale Khan ISBT. Another entry/exit will be near the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station approximately at a distance of 150 metre," the official said.

With the opening of the new section of the Pink Line, the total operational length of the DMRC has increased to 327 km with 236 stations.

The 9.7-km Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 corridor of the Delhi Metro's Pink Line was inaugurated by Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri here on Monday, which directly connects south and east Delhi on the rapid transit network.

The 9.7-km Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 corridor of the Delhi Metro's Pink Line was inaugurated by Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri here on Monday, which directly connects south and east Delhi on the rapid transit network. The new segment is part of the 59-km-long Pink Line, which spans from Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar. According to a senior official, passenger services on the corridor will commence from 4 pm. "This is the sixth time a metro corridor has been inaugurated this year, which is truly a great achievement. The work on the Phase-III of the DMRC has been almost completed with nearly 96 km of it being made operational this year," the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) said. This extension of the Pink Line, part of the Phase-III of the DMRC network, was inaugurated jointly by Puri and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia from Metro Bhawan. Only a 1.4-km stretch between Mayur Vihar Pocket-1 and Trilokpuri Sanjay Lake stations of the Pink Line remain to be linked. The Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 corridor has five stations -- Lajpat Nagar, Vinobapuri, Ashram, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Mayur Vihar Ph-I and Mayur Vihar Pocket-1. Mayur Vihar Ph-I and Mayur Vihar Pocket-1 are elevated stations and the rest are underground, the official said. This section has one interchange station, Mayur Vihar Ph-1. The facility of interchange of metro trains between line seven and line 3/4 is available through this station. "South and east Delhi have now been connected directly on the network and commuters can save time by using it, who otherwise had to rely on road transport or a longer route on the Delhi Metro," Puri said. "The new Mayur Vihar Ph-1 station is an engineering marvel as it has been constructed on a narrow road with only 13 metres of width. The viaduct adjacent to the station passes at a height of 23 metre and goes above the Dwarka Noida Blue Line viaduct as well as a road flyover. The new station has a length of 140 metre and has 11 escalators and six lifts," the DMRC said. Trains will operate between Majlis Park and Mayur Vihar Pocket 1 at a peak hour frequency of 5 minutes and 12 seconds. During the non-peak hours, the frequency will be five minutes and 45 seconds. A total 29 trains will be operational on this line, officials said. The Hazrat Nizamuddin Metro station on the Majlis Park Shiv Vihar Pink Corridor of Delhi Metro's Phase-3 will become one of the metro network's major transit hubs as the station would provide direct connectivity with the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station as well as the Sarai Kale Khan Inter State Bus Terminus. "The station will have dedicated entry/exit points connecting to the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station and the ISBT at Sarai Kale Khan. One of the entry/exit points will be within a vicinity of 50 metre from the Sarai Kale Khan ISBT. Another entry/exit will be near the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station approximately at a distance of 150 metre," the official said. With the opening of the new section of the Pink Line, the total operational length of the DMRC has increased to 327 km with 236 stations.

Delhi: Lajpat Nagar-Mayur Vihar Pocket-1 corridor of Metro's Pink Line inaugurated

Days after a pregnant woman died in Tamil Nadu after she contracted HIV through infected blood transfusion, the youth whose blood was transfused into her body also died on Sunday.

The 19-year old youth committed suicide after he came to know that his blood was transmitted into the pregnant woman.

Speaking to ANI, the mother of the deceased 19-year old boy said, "He was fine but as he saw the news that his blood was transfused to a pregnant lady. He thought that he should not live and consumed rat poison."

The deceased who was not aware of his medical status&nbsp;unknowingly donated blood on November 30.

He recently found out that he was HIV positive after he underwent a medical checkup as a requirement for a foreign job.

After learning about his HIV, the youth also asked the blood bank at Sivakasi to not to use the blood, however by then, the blood had already been transfused to a Sattur-based pregnant woman by the first week of December.

Following the alleged medical negligence in Tamil Nadu, the Madras High Court on Thursday took sue moto cognisance of the incident.

The court had ordered the state government to file a detailed status report in the matter by January 3, 2019.

The court also declined a petition seeking an urgent hearing in the matter and stated that the matter would be heard as a regular case as and when the case reopens.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after a pregnant woman died in Tamil Nadu after she contracted HIV through infected blood transfusion, the youth whose blood was transfused into her body also died on Sunday.

Days after a pregnant woman died in Tamil Nadu after she contracted HIV through infected blood transfusion, the youth whose blood was transfused into her body also died on Sunday. The 19-year old youth committed suicide after he came to know that his blood was transmitted into the pregnant woman. Speaking to ANI, the mother of the deceased 19-year old boy said, "He was fine but as he saw the news that his blood was transfused to a pregnant lady. He thought that he should not live and consumed rat poison." The deceased who was not aware of his medical status unknowingly donated blood on November 30. He recently found out that he was HIV positive after he underwent a medical checkup as a requirement for a foreign job. After learning about his HIV, the youth also asked the blood bank at Sivakasi to not to use the blood, however by then, the blood had already been transfused to a Sattur-based pregnant woman by the first week of December. Following the alleged medical negligence in Tamil Nadu, the Madras High Court on Thursday took sue moto cognisance of the incident. The court had ordered the state government to file a detailed status report in the matter by January 3, 2019. The court also declined a petition seeking an urgent hearing in the matter and stated that the matter would be heard as a regular case as and when the case reopens. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu: Teen commits suicide after his HIV-infected blood gets transfused to pregnant woman

Indian Navy divers return empty handed in mining rescue efforts

Indian Army foils Pakistan BAT team's bid to carry out major attack along LoC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">winning a third consecutive term</a> in the parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

PM Modi reiterated India's continued commitment to work together for Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of the bilateral relations.

PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on a resounding victory in Bangladesh elections. Wished her very best for tenure ahead," PM Modi tweeted out.

The Indian government in an official statement said that the Prime Minister, earlier in the day, telephoned his Bangladeshi counterpart on winning elections with a thumping majority.&nbsp;

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Indian Govt: PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment. <a href="https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte">https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte</a>
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"He expressed confidence that the partnership between Indian and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership," the statement read.

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Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on the resounding victory in the Bangladesh elections. 
 
Wished her the very best for the tenure ahead.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1079628942221312001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The conversation was very cordial, fully reflecting the close and traditionally friendly relations between India and Bangladesh," the statement concluded.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat.&nbsp;

According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of 288 seats, registering a landslide win. Jatiya Oikya Front settled with 7 seats, rest three went to others. Jatiya Oikya Front is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on winning a third consecutive term in the parliamentary elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on winning a third consecutive term in the parliamentary elections. PM Modi reiterated India's continued commitment to work together for Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of the bilateral relations. PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment, news agency ANI reported. "Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on a resounding victory in Bangladesh elections. Wished her very best for tenure ahead," PM Modi tweeted out. The Indian government in an official statement said that the Prime Minister, earlier in the day, telephoned his Bangladeshi counterpart on winning elections with a thumping majority. Indian Govt: PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment. https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × "He expressed confidence that the partnership between Indian and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership," the statement read. Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on the resounding victory in the Bangladesh elections. Wished her the very best for the tenure ahead. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 31, 2018 × "The conversation was very cordial, fully reflecting the close and traditionally friendly relations between India and Bangladesh," the statement concluded. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat. According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of 288 seats, registering a landslide win. Jatiya Oikya Front settled with 7 seats, rest three went to others. Jatiya Oikya Front is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain.

Our ties will continue to flourish under her leadership: PM Modi congratulates Sheikh Hasina on parliamentary win 

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday.&nbsp;

The intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to the LoC and were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pak posts, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Indian Army: Foiled a major BAT(Border Action Team) attempt to strike a forward post along LoC in Naugam Sector on 30 December.Intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to LoC &amp;were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pakistani posts <a href="https://t.co/wKfOweHzuZ">pic.twitter.com/wKfOweHzuZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079566208209428481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indian Army personnel had conducted an extensive search operation and eliminated two intruders&nbsp;who are likely being ascertained as Pak soldiers, a large cache of warlike stores has been recovered.&nbsp;

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Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders <a href="https://t.co/0mveCKkJly">https://t.co/0mveCKkJly</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079567234824065024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Own troops had conducted prolonged search operations in thick jungles and difficult terrain conditions to ascertain the situation, which had confirmed elimination of two likely Pakistani soldiers and resulted in the recovery of a large cache of warlike stores," Army officials told ANI. &nbsp;

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Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders <a href="https://t.co/0mveCKkJly">https://t.co/0mveCKkJly</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079567234824065024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Army has clarified that Pakistan will be asked to take back the mortal remains of the deceased, likely Pakistani soldiers, since "Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders," ANI reported.&nbsp;

An Army spokesman said the fire-fight initiated by Pakistan was given strong retaliation by the Indian Army and the exchange of fire continued the whole night.

"Intruders were wearing combat dresses like Pakistani Regulars and were carrying stores with Pakistani markings further reinforced the assessment. Some intruders were also seen in BSF and old pattern IA dresses as part of deception," he was quoted by anews agency PTI.

The spokesman said the intruders were well equipped with IEDs, incendiary materials, explosives and a plethora of arms and ammunition.

"From the recovery, it was estimated that they intended to carry out a gruesome attack on the Indian Army forward post in Naugam sector. The alertness and resilience of the own troops, who engaged and neutralised the intruders, thus eliminated a likely treacherous attack on the Army forward posts along the LoC on the eve of New Year," the spokesman added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday.

Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major attack along the Line of Control. According to an ANI report, the Army successfully averted a major attack carried out by Pakistan's BAT (Border Action Team) which attempted to strike a forward post along the LoC in Naugam Sector on Sunday. The intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to the LoC and were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pak posts, news agency ANI reported. Indian Army: Foiled a major BAT(Border Action Team) attempt to strike a forward post along LoC in Naugam Sector on 30 December.Intruders attempted to move by exploiting thick jungles close to LoC &were assisted by heavy covering fire of high calibre weapons from Pakistani posts pic.twitter.com/wKfOweHzuZ — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × Indian Army personnel had conducted an extensive search operation and eliminated two intruders who are likely being ascertained as Pak soldiers, a large cache of warlike stores has been recovered. Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders https://t.co/0mveCKkJly — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × "Own troops had conducted prolonged search operations in thick jungles and difficult terrain conditions to ascertain the situation, which had confirmed elimination of two likely Pakistani soldiers and resulted in the recovery of a large cache of warlike stores," Army officials told ANI. Army: We will ask Pakistan to take back the mortal remains of deceased likely Pakistani soldiers since Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders https://t.co/0mveCKkJly — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × The Indian Army has clarified that Pakistan will be asked to take back the mortal remains of the deceased, likely Pakistani soldiers, since "Pakistan did provide full covering fire support to these intruders," ANI reported. An Army spokesman said the fire-fight initiated by Pakistan was given strong retaliation by the Indian Army and the exchange of fire continued the whole night. "Intruders were wearing combat dresses like Pakistani Regulars and were carrying stores with Pakistani markings further reinforced the assessment. Some intruders were also seen in BSF and old pattern IA dresses as part of deception," he was quoted by anews agency PTI. The spokesman said the intruders were well equipped with IEDs, incendiary materials, explosives and a plethora of arms and ammunition. "From the recovery, it was estimated that they intended to carry out a gruesome attack on the Indian Army forward post in Naugam sector. The alertness and resilience of the own troops, who engaged and neutralised the intruders, thus eliminated a likely treacherous attack on the Army forward posts along the LoC on the eve of New Year," the spokesman added. (With inputs from agencies)

A petition has been filed before a Commission of Inquiry probing the death of former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nithya-menen-looks-strikingly-similar-to-young-jayalalitha-in-the-first-poster-of-the-iron-lady-181657">chief minister J Jayalalithaa</a> by its counsel, raising serious medical issues regarding her treatment at the Apollo Hospital.

The hospital has, however, strongly refuted the allegations against it raised in the petition.&nbsp;

Commission sources told that the plea filed by the standing counsel for the commission seeks to implead Tamil Nadu Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan and former chief secretary P Rama Mohana Rao over their statements and depositions.

A statement issued Saturday night by Apollo Hospital said it was served a copy of the petition dated December 27.&nbsp;

"It is surprising that the commission is itself filing this petition against other parties," the hospital said, adding that the proceedings before the inquiry panel cannot be "accusatorial" in nature.

The hospital said the plea before the panel referred to three senior doctors advising an<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-tamil-nadu-cm-j-jayalalithaa-death-probe-panel-completes-examining-100-witnesses"> angiogram on Jayalalithaa</a>.

"This is incorrect. It was only a single external doctor who on November 25, 2016, visited the late CM for a few minutes and suggested immediate angiogram without going into all the other co-morbidities, including her compromised respiratory condition, which could have potentially inhibited the desired outcome," it said.

The hospital said its team of doctors and Richard Beale, a UK-based specialist, did not think it was wise to do angiogram based on the medical opinion of that doctor who wanted to "perform the procedure and leave immediately out of the country with no commitment to her follow-up care."

Citing medical evidence in the form of depositions of multiple doctors, and related medical reports including echocardiogram and blood tests, the hospital asked why was the "commission choosing to ignore the material evidence in this regard".&nbsp;

Also, the hospital said the petition wrongly spelt 'sternotomy' as "stenotomy".&nbsp;

Complicated medical terminologies in English have been incorrectly translated into Tamil and the context and meaning of medical facts have been lost in interpretation and translation, the hospital alleged.

"This petition only strengthens our case for the immediate appointment of a medical board who will understand the complexities of the late CM's treatment," he said.

The hospital argued that without a medical board no finding of the panel would be "complete" or based on medical science. "The Supreme Court has repeatedly held that a judge cannot substitute a medical specialist's opinion with his own," it said.&nbsp;

Jayalalitha had died on December 5, 2016.&nbsp;

A petition has been filed before a Commission of Inquiry probing the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa by its counsel, raising serious medical issues regarding her treatment at the Apollo Hospital.

A petition has been filed before a Commission of Inquiry probing the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa by its counsel, raising serious medical issues regarding her treatment at the Apollo Hospital. The hospital has, however, strongly refuted the allegations against it raised in the petition. Commission sources told that the plea filed by the standing counsel for the commission seeks to implead Tamil Nadu Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan and former chief secretary P Rama Mohana Rao over their statements and depositions. A statement issued Saturday night by Apollo Hospital said it was served a copy of the petition dated December 27. "It is surprising that the commission is itself filing this petition against other parties," the hospital said, adding that the proceedings before the inquiry panel cannot be "accusatorial" in nature. The hospital said the plea before the panel referred to three senior doctors advising an angiogram on Jayalalithaa. "This is incorrect. It was only a single external doctor who on November 25, 2016, visited the late CM for a few minutes and suggested immediate angiogram without going into all the other co-morbidities, including her compromised respiratory condition, which could have potentially inhibited the desired outcome," it said. The hospital said its team of doctors and Richard Beale, a UK-based specialist, did not think it was wise to do angiogram based on the medical opinion of that doctor who wanted to "perform the procedure and leave immediately out of the country with no commitment to her follow-up care." Citing medical evidence in the form of depositions of multiple doctors, and related medical reports including echocardiogram and blood tests, the hospital asked why was the "commission choosing to ignore the material evidence in this regard". Also, the hospital said the petition wrongly spelt 'sternotomy' as "stenotomy". Complicated medical terminologies in English have been incorrectly translated into Tamil and the context and meaning of medical facts have been lost in interpretation and translation, the hospital alleged. "This petition only strengthens our case for the immediate appointment of a medical board who will understand the complexities of the late CM's treatment," he said. The hospital argued that without a medical board no finding of the panel would be "complete" or based on medical science. "The Supreme Court has repeatedly held that a judge cannot substitute a medical specialist's opinion with his own," it said. Jayalalitha had died on December 5, 2016.

Jaya panel counsel files plea flagging serious medical issues in her treatment

World agencies recognise that India is pulling its citizens out of poverty at a record pace, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.&nbsp;

Modi was addressing 51st edition of his popular radio broadcast programme 'Mann Ki Baat'. Wishing the nation on the new year 2019, PM Modi praised Indian athletes for their exemplary performances in Asian Games and Blind Cricket World Cup.

Pune's 20-year-old Vedangi Kulkarni has become the fastest Asian woman to travel around the world on a cycle, Modi said.

Kulkarni cycled 300km each day for 159 days, he said.&nbsp;

He also praised 6-year-old Rajni&nbsp;who won a gold medal in Junior National Women Boxing Championship and&nbsp;12-year-old Hanaya from Anantnag in Kashmir who won a gold medal in Karate Championship in Korea.&nbsp;

The monthly radio programme was aired on All India Radio (AIR), Doordarshan and relayed on other channels.

He also mentioned that in 2018, the health insurance scheme - Ayushman Bharat - was launched.&nbsp;

World agencies recognise that India is pulling its citizens out of poverty at a record pace, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. Modi was addressing 51st edition of his popular radio broadcast programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.

World agencies recognise that India is pulling its citizens out of poverty at a record pace, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. Modi was addressing 51st edition of his popular radio broadcast programme 'Mann Ki Baat'. Wishing the nation on the new year 2019, PM Modi praised Indian athletes for their exemplary performances in Asian Games and Blind Cricket World Cup. Pune's 20-year-old Vedangi Kulkarni has become the fastest Asian woman to travel around the world on a cycle, Modi said. Kulkarni cycled 300km each day for 159 days, he said. He also praised 6-year-old Rajni who won a gold medal in Junior National Women Boxing Championship and 12-year-old Hanaya from Anantnag in Kashmir who won a gold medal in Karate Championship in Korea. The monthly radio programme was aired on All India Radio (AIR), Doordarshan and relayed on other channels. He also mentioned that in 2018, the health insurance scheme - Ayushman Bharat - was launched.

India is pulling its citizens out of poverty at a record pace: PM Modi in Mann ki Baat

Hindustani Awam Morcha president Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday said he would go to Ranchi next week to meet<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/irctc-scam-delhi-court-grants-interim-bail-to-rjd-chief-lalu-prasad-185433"> RJD national president Lalu Prasad</a> for discussing seat-sharing in Bihar ahead of Lok Sabha polls in 2019.

He sought to distance himself from the aggressive stance of HAM state president Vrishan Patel, who had earlier this week said the party would boycott the general elections if it was not given a "sizeable" number of seats to contest.

HAM is part of the opposition alliance in Bihar along with RJD, Congress, RLSP, VIP and LJD.

Prasad is in jail in Ranchi, after his conviction in three fodder scam cases. He is lodged at the Rajendra Instute of Medical Sciences on health grounds.

Manjhi said only three people are allowed to meet the RJD supremo on Saturdays. "Today, his younger son Tejashwi Yadav and our alliance partners Upendra Kushwaha of RLSP and Mukesh Sahni of Vikasshil Insan Party (VIP) met him. Next week it is going to be me", he said.

Responding to queries on Patel's seat-sharing stance, Manjhi said, "He may have vented his anxieties resulting from unsubstantiated media reports. We enjoy the support of 90 per cent of Dalits in the state. This is a fact which the RJD leadership is aware of."

It was due to HAM's support that the RJD won the Jehanabad assembly by-poll and the Araria Lok Sahba seat in March by a good margin, even though a sizeable number of Yadavs, its traditional supporters, had gravitated to the BJP, Manjhi, a former chief minister, claimed.

The opposition alliance is now reportedly exploring the possibility of an electoral understanding with the Left parties in order to take on the NDA which has been bolstered by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-nitish-holds-jdu-meeting-in-patna-187291">Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's</a> return to the grouping last year.

Kumar heads the JD(U).

Seat sharing among the opposition parties in Bihar is likely to be a thorny issue.

Tejashwi Yadav, who is seen as Prasad's political successor, had sought to downplay the difficulties being faced by the Mahagathbandhan.

He had told reporters in Ranchi, "Our (Mahagathbandhan's) priority is to defeat the NDA. Whoever seems to be in the best position to defeat the BJP-led coalition in a given seat will be fielded as the joint candidate of the Mahagathbandhan".&nbsp;

Hindustani Awam Morcha president Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday said he would go to Ranchi next week to meet RJD national president Lalu Prasad for discussing seat-sharing in Bihar ahead of Lok Sabha polls in 2019.

Hindustani Awam Morcha president Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday said he would go to Ranchi next week to meet RJD national president Lalu Prasad for discussing seat-sharing in Bihar ahead of Lok Sabha polls in 2019. He sought to distance himself from the aggressive stance of HAM state president Vrishan Patel, who had earlier this week said the party would boycott the general elections if it was not given a "sizeable" number of seats to contest. HAM is part of the opposition alliance in Bihar along with RJD, Congress, RLSP, VIP and LJD. Prasad is in jail in Ranchi, after his conviction in three fodder scam cases. He is lodged at the Rajendra Instute of Medical Sciences on health grounds. Manjhi said only three people are allowed to meet the RJD supremo on Saturdays. "Today, his younger son Tejashwi Yadav and our alliance partners Upendra Kushwaha of RLSP and Mukesh Sahni of Vikasshil Insan Party (VIP) met him. Next week it is going to be me", he said. Responding to queries on Patel's seat-sharing stance, Manjhi said, "He may have vented his anxieties resulting from unsubstantiated media reports. We enjoy the support of 90 per cent of Dalits in the state. This is a fact which the RJD leadership is aware of." It was due to HAM's support that the RJD won the Jehanabad assembly by-poll and the Araria Lok Sahba seat in March by a good margin, even though a sizeable number of Yadavs, its traditional supporters, had gravitated to the BJP, Manjhi, a former chief minister, claimed. The opposition alliance is now reportedly exploring the possibility of an electoral understanding with the Left parties in order to take on the NDA which has been bolstered by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's return to the grouping last year. Kumar heads the JD(U). Seat sharing among the opposition parties in Bihar is likely to be a thorny issue. Tejashwi Yadav, who is seen as Prasad's political successor, had sought to downplay the difficulties being faced by the Mahagathbandhan. He had told reporters in Ranchi, "Our (Mahagathbandhan's) priority is to defeat the NDA. Whoever seems to be in the best position to defeat the BJP-led coalition in a given seat will be fielded as the joint candidate of the Mahagathbandhan".

Jitan Ram Manjhi to meet Lalu Yadav for seat-sharing talks next week

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nobody-has-power-to-abolish-reservation-nitish-kumar-174763">Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar </a>attended a meeting of his JD(U) here on Saturday, in which the top leaders of the party discussed the ways and means to improve its prospects in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shivpal-yadav-willing-to-join-hands-with-congress-to-defeat-bjp-in-lok-sabha-polls-186646">2019 Lok Sabha polls.</a>

The meeting was held at the residence of Janata Dal (United) state president and Rajya Sabha member Vashishtha Narayan Singh. A host of senior leaders, including the party's national general secretary Ram Chandra Prasad Singh, spokesperson Sanjay Singh, minister Jai Kumar Singh and MLA Lesi Singh, were among those present.

JD(U) sources said the meeting that lasted for nearly three hours focussed on making the party more popular among the upper castes, who have traditionally supported the BJP or, earlier, the Congress.

The JD(U) enjoys tremendous popularity among the Extremely Backward Classes and the Mahadalits — numerically large but politically submissive social groups — thanks to the schemes of Kumar's government that have aimed at the betterment of these segments.

The support base of the JD(U) remained intact in the worst of times, but the votes failed to translate into seats whenever the party decided to go it alone like the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when it managed to win only two of the 40 seats in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-government-collected-38-more-tax-than-last-year-sushil-modi-187104"> Bihar.</a>

The JD(U) is looking forward to putting up a sterling performance in next year's general election, which it will be contesting in an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (LJP).

Last week, BJP president Amit Shah had announced the seat-sharing formula of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar, wherein his party and the JD(U) will contest 17 seats each while the LJP will fight the remaining six.

Kumar had said at Shah's press conference that in 2019, the NDA would better its previous record of 32 seats in Bihar, which was achieved in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

Being at the helm of affairs in Bihar for long, Kumar has the responsibility to ensure that the NDA romps home successfully in the 2019 polls.

However, opposition parties like the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) have mocked the claim, saying Paswan's decision not to contest the Lok Sabha polls but enter Parliament through the Rajya Sabha was "out of fear that the NDA may not be able to open its account in Bihar".

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attended a meeting of his JD(U) here on Saturday, in which the top leaders of the party discussed the ways and means to improve its prospects in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attended a meeting of his JD(U) here on Saturday, in which the top leaders of the party discussed the ways and means to improve its prospects in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The meeting was held at the residence of Janata Dal (United) state president and Rajya Sabha member Vashishtha Narayan Singh. A host of senior leaders, including the party's national general secretary Ram Chandra Prasad Singh, spokesperson Sanjay Singh, minister Jai Kumar Singh and MLA Lesi Singh, were among those present. JD(U) sources said the meeting that lasted for nearly three hours focussed on making the party more popular among the upper castes, who have traditionally supported the BJP or, earlier, the Congress. The JD(U) enjoys tremendous popularity among the Extremely Backward Classes and the Mahadalits — numerically large but politically submissive social groups — thanks to the schemes of Kumar's government that have aimed at the betterment of these segments. The support base of the JD(U) remained intact in the worst of times, but the votes failed to translate into seats whenever the party decided to go it alone like the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when it managed to win only two of the 40 seats in Bihar. The JD(U) is looking forward to putting up a sterling performance in next year's general election, which it will be contesting in an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). Last week, BJP president Amit Shah had announced the seat-sharing formula of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar, wherein his party and the JD(U) will contest 17 seats each while the LJP will fight the remaining six. Kumar had said at Shah's press conference that in 2019, the NDA would better its previous record of 32 seats in Bihar, which was achieved in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls. Being at the helm of affairs in Bihar for long, Kumar has the responsibility to ensure that the NDA romps home successfully in the 2019 polls. However, opposition parties like the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) have mocked the claim, saying Paswan's decision not to contest the Lok Sabha polls but enter Parliament through the Rajya Sabha was "out of fear that the NDA may not be able to open its account in Bihar".

Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, Nitish holds JD(U) meeting in Patna

Dalit rights activist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hardik-patel-fast-enters-17th-day-mevani-says-government-must-hold-talks-164949">Jignesh Mevani </a>Saturday was evasive when asked about <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-it-going-to-be-rahul-gandhi-vs-narendra-modi-in-2019-185056">his stand on Rahul Gandhi</a>, being propped by the DMK as the opposition's Prime Ministerial candidate.

The independent MLA from Gujarat, when asked who he would support in the Lok Sabha polls next year, told reporters "my support will be to we the people, to the poorest of the poor, to the workers and peasants."

The Gujarat based activist was here to take part in a cultural event coordinated by noted film director Pa Ranjit.

Asked specifically about his opinion on Rahul Gandhi's candidature for the Prime Minister's post, the MLA did not give a direct answer and said: "yes, yes, we should get two crore jobs and farmers suicides should not happen".

Again, when asked if his support would be for the Congress, he repeated "I support we the people...I support Ambedkar...Phule."

DMK president M K Stalin had on December 16 vowed to make Congress chief Rahul Gandhi the country's next prime minister and lauded him for having the ability to defeat the Narendra Modi-led government at the&nbsp; 
Centre.

He stated this at a rally that day followed by the unveiling of a bronze statue of DMK patriarch and his father late M Karunanidhi at party headquarters Anna Arivalayam here.

Besides the DMK, key opposition parties like Congress, TDP and CPI(M) had come together at the event to reaffirm their resolve to dislodge the BJP-led NDA government.

Mevani later joined those present at the event in raising the "Jai Bhim" slogan.

To another question, he referred to the electoral setback for the BJP in states like Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh.

The backdrop of such electoral drubbings and the Dalit assertion made it amply clear that notwithstanding the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP and RSS, "they will not be able to bring back Dalits into the fold of RSS and BJP... They (BJP) will have to suffer a lot," he said.

He lashed out at the Saffron party and alleged that it was "fascist and has a "casteist, manuvadi mentality and agenda."&nbsp;

Dalit rights activist Jignesh Mevani Saturday was evasive when asked about his stand on Rahul Gandhi, being propped by the DMK as the opposition's Prime Ministerial candidate.

Dalit rights activist Jignesh Mevani Saturday was evasive when asked about his stand on Rahul Gandhi, being propped by the DMK as the opposition's Prime Ministerial candidate. The independent MLA from Gujarat, when asked who he would support in the Lok Sabha polls next year, told reporters "my support will be to we the people, to the poorest of the poor, to the workers and peasants." The Gujarat based activist was here to take part in a cultural event coordinated by noted film director Pa Ranjit. Asked specifically about his opinion on Rahul Gandhi's candidature for the Prime Minister's post, the MLA did not give a direct answer and said: "yes, yes, we should get two crore jobs and farmers suicides should not happen". Again, when asked if his support would be for the Congress, he repeated "I support we the people...I support Ambedkar...Phule." DMK president M K Stalin had on December 16 vowed to make Congress chief Rahul Gandhi the country's next prime minister and lauded him for having the ability to defeat the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre. He stated this at a rally that day followed by the unveiling of a bronze statue of DMK patriarch and his father late M Karunanidhi at party headquarters Anna Arivalayam here. Besides the DMK, key opposition parties like Congress, TDP and CPI(M) had come together at the event to reaffirm their resolve to dislodge the BJP-led NDA government. Mevani later joined those present at the event in raising the "Jai Bhim" slogan. To another question, he referred to the electoral setback for the BJP in states like Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh. The backdrop of such electoral drubbings and the Dalit assertion made it amply clear that notwithstanding the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP and RSS, "they will not be able to bring back Dalits into the fold of RSS and BJP... They (BJP) will have to suffer a lot," he said. He lashed out at the Saffron party and alleged that it was "fascist and has a "casteist, manuvadi mentality and agenda."

Dalit rights activist Jignesh Mevani evasive on support to 'Rahul for PM pitch'

Nishad Party president Sanjay Nishad has denied any involvement in the stone pelting&nbsp;incident that led to the death of a police constable in Gazipur on Saturday.

"We need proper investigation in the case. It is BJP who is plotting against us. Not our party workers but BJP workers threw stones at people. We're taking our demand of reservation ahead in a democratic manner. If my party workers are found guilty, we will take strict action against them. It is easy to blame the weak as Yogi ji and Modi ji are in power,"&nbsp;Sanjay Nishad said,

A police constable was killed and seven others suffered injuries in a stone-pelting incident by a mob&nbsp;that took place following Prime Minister Narendra <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-attacks-cong-on-loan-waiver-promises-187161">Modi's event in Gazipur</a>.

Two other civilians were injured in the incident.

The protesters who pelted stones at the police personnel leading to his death allegedly belonged to the Nishad Party who had organised a protest in support of their demand of reservation, police said.

The mob pelted stone after the police arrested some of the leaders of the party as a precautionary measure ahead of the event.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> One constable dead &amp; two locals from the area injured in stone pelting allegedly by Nishad Party workers near Atwa Mor police station in Naunera area, earlier today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ghazipur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ghazipur</a> <a href="https://t.co/FnviOzuRIU">pic.twitter.com/FnviOzuRIU</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1079043845445296128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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One of the police constables who was posted in the Prime Minister duty succumbed to his injuries after he was hit by a stone during the protest.

Meanwhile, the police have&nbsp;registered an FIR against 32 people in the death of the constable.

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MP Pathak, CO City, Ghazipur on the stone pelting incident that claimed life of a police constable yesterday: 32 people have been named in the FIR. 60 unnamed people also mentioned in the FIR. A few people have also been arrested. <a href="https://t.co/rqTNBdypp5">pic.twitter.com/rqTNBdypp5</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1079224372584435712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Two others were injured in the incident and have been admitted to the district hospital for medical assistance. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the unfortunate death of Constable Suresh Vats and has announced Rs 40 lakh compensation for the wife of the deceased", informed Chief Minister's office.

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Dr Naveen Singh, Sadar Hospital,<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ghazipur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ghazipur</a> on death of one constable in stone pelting allegedly by Nishad Party workers near Atwa Mor police station in Naunera area yesterday: Post mortem of the constable is being conducted. 7 police personnel have suffered leg injuries. <a href="https://t.co/93VXrob1sD">pic.twitter.com/93VXrob1sD</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1079201092636794881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Chief Minister has also directed the DM SSP to take strict action against the unruly elements and make an immediate arrest.

(With inputs from ANI)

Nishad Party president Sanjay Nishad has denied any involvement in the stone pelting incident that led to the death of a police constable in Gazipur on Saturday.

Nishad Party president Sanjay Nishad has denied any involvement in the stone pelting incident that led to the death of a police constable in Gazipur on Saturday. "We need proper investigation in the case. It is BJP who is plotting against us. Not our party workers but BJP workers threw stones at people. We're taking our demand of reservation ahead in a democratic manner. If my party workers are found guilty, we will take strict action against them. It is easy to blame the weak as Yogi ji and Modi ji are in power," Sanjay Nishad said, A police constable was killed and seven others suffered injuries in a stone-pelting incident by a mob that took place following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's event in Gazipur. Two other civilians were injured in the incident. The protesters who pelted stones at the police personnel leading to his death allegedly belonged to the Nishad Party who had organised a protest in support of their demand of reservation, police said. The mob pelted stone after the police arrested some of the leaders of the party as a precautionary measure ahead of the event. #WATCH One constable dead & two locals from the area injured in stone pelting allegedly by Nishad Party workers near Atwa Mor police station in Naunera area, earlier today. #Ghazipur pic.twitter.com/FnviOzuRIU — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 29, 2018 × One of the police constables who was posted in the Prime Minister duty succumbed to his injuries after he was hit by a stone during the protest. Meanwhile, the police have registered an FIR against 32 people in the death of the constable. MP Pathak, CO City, Ghazipur on the stone pelting incident that claimed life of a police constable yesterday: 32 people have been named in the FIR. 60 unnamed people also mentioned in the FIR. A few people have also been arrested. pic.twitter.com/rqTNBdypp5 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 30, 2018 × "Two others were injured in the incident and have been admitted to the district hospital for medical assistance. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the unfortunate death of Constable Suresh Vats and has announced Rs 40 lakh compensation for the wife of the deceased", informed Chief Minister's office. Dr Naveen Singh, Sadar Hospital,#Ghazipur on death of one constable in stone pelting allegedly by Nishad Party workers near Atwa Mor police station in Naunera area yesterday: Post mortem of the constable is being conducted. 7 police personnel have suffered leg injuries. pic.twitter.com/93VXrob1sD — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 30, 2018 × The Chief Minister has also directed the DM SSP to take strict action against the unruly elements and make an immediate arrest. (With inputs from ANI)

Ghazipur violence: Nishad Party denies role in police constable's death

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda Friday said he too was an "Accidental Prime Minister" amid a political row over the movie with the same title.

The film is based on Manmohan Singh's tenure as India's prime minister from 2004 to 2014 with the Congress alleging it was the BJP's propaganda against their party.

The movie is based on the book of the same name by Sanjaya Baru, who served as Singh's media adviser from 2004 to 2008.

The film's trailer was released in Mumbai on Thursday.

Reacting to a question over the controversy, the 85-year-old JDS supremo said "Actually I don't know, why that was allowed...I think it started three or four months ago.

I don't know who has permitted, why? honestly, I have not gone through this so-called Accidental Prime Minister. I'm also (an) Accidental Prime Minister," Gowda said in a lighter vein.

In the 1996 general elections, no party won enough seats to form a government. The United Front, a conglomeration of non-Congress and non-BJP regional parties, decided to form the government at the Centre with the support of the Congress and chose Gowda to head the government.

He served as prime minister from June 1 1996 to April 21 1997 with the help of regional parties and Congress. Later when Congress withdrew support, Gowda had to step down.

Directed by Vijay Ratnakar Gutte, the film stars Kher as Manmohan Singh and Akshaye Khanna as Baru. It is slated for release on January 11.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda Friday said he too was an "Accidental Prime Minister" amid a political row over the movie with the same title. The film is based on Manmohan Singh's tenure as India's prime minister from 2004 to 2014 with the Congress alleging it was the BJP's propaganda against their party.

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda Friday said he too was an "Accidental Prime Minister" amid a political row over the movie with the same title. The film is based on Manmohan Singh's tenure as India's prime minister from 2004 to 2014 with the Congress alleging it was the BJP's propaganda against their party. The movie is based on the book of the same name by Sanjaya Baru, who served as Singh's media adviser from 2004 to 2008. The film's trailer was released in Mumbai on Thursday. Reacting to a question over the controversy, the 85-year-old JDS supremo said "Actually I don't know, why that was allowed...I think it started three or four months ago. I don't know who has permitted, why? honestly, I have not gone through this so-called Accidental Prime Minister. I'm also (an) Accidental Prime Minister," Gowda said in a lighter vein. In the 1996 general elections, no party won enough seats to form a government. The United Front, a conglomeration of non-Congress and non-BJP regional parties, decided to form the government at the Centre with the support of the Congress and chose Gowda to head the government. He served as prime minister from June 1 1996 to April 21 1997 with the help of regional parties and Congress. Later when Congress withdrew support, Gowda had to step down. Directed by Vijay Ratnakar Gutte, the film stars Kher as Manmohan Singh and Akshaye Khanna as Baru. It is slated for release on January 11.

'I am also an Accidental Prime Minister,' says Deve Gowda

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hope-sanitation-prevails-along-with-reverence-pm-modi-on-kumbh-mela-187343">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Sunday announced renaming of three islands of Andaman and Nicobar on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Tricolour hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose here.

The Ross Island was renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, the Neil Island would now be known as Shaheed Dweep and the Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep, Modi said during a speech. &nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi at Marina Park in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands: From today, the three islands in Andaman and Nicobar- Ross Island will be known with the name of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, Neil Island as Shaheed Dweep &amp; Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep <a href="https://t.co/9mAB0UvZRk">pic.twitter.com/9mAB0UvZRk</a>
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The PM also released a commemorative stamp, its first-day cover and a Rs 75 coin on this special day. &nbsp; &nbsp;

He also announced setting up of a deemed university after Bose.

Earlier, Modi visited the Marina Park here and hoisted a national flag on a 150-feet high mast.

He also paid floral tribute at Netaji's statue in the park.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday announced renaming of three islands of Andaman and Nicobar on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Tricolour hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday announced renaming of three islands of Andaman and Nicobar on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Tricolour hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose here. The Ross Island was renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, the Neil Island would now be known as Shaheed Dweep and the Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep, Modi said during a speech. PM Narendra Modi at Marina Park in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands: From today, the three islands in Andaman and Nicobar- Ross Island will be known with the name of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, Neil Island as Shaheed Dweep & Havelock Island as Swaraj Dweep pic.twitter.com/9mAB0UvZRk — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × The PM also released a commemorative stamp, its first-day cover and a Rs 75 coin on this special day. He also announced setting up of a deemed university after Bose. Earlier, Modi visited the Marina Park here and hoisted a national flag on a 150-feet high mast. He also paid floral tribute at Netaji's statue in the park.

PM Modi renames 3 islands of Andaman and Nicobar

Notwithstanding irritants on trade issues, India and the US made "landmark" progress in 2018 to bolster their strategic and defence ties from holding the maiden trilateral meeting with Japan to the first-ever 2+2 dialogue during which they signed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">the long-pending </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">COMCASA</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982"> agreement </a>that would open the way for sales of more sensitive US military equipment to India.

The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a "tariff king" in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators as the two countries started talks on a bilateral trade deal.

India was among the few countries, which received a waiver on Iran sanctions from the Trump administration, which also pressed Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack and announced a reward of $ 5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired to commit, or aided the 26/11 attack.

"This has been a landmark year for US-India ties as we build out stronger relationships across the board," Alice Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, told PTI.

"Last month, President Trump met in Buenos Aires with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the first US-India-Japan or 'JAI' meeting as Prime Minister Modi called it" between the three leaders, and Vice President (Mike) Pence reviewed the rapid development of the strategic partnership during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Singapore," said Wells, who has been Trump administration's point person for the South and Central Asia.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo described the first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September as "symbolic of our increasingly close partnership," she said.

Pompeo along with Defence Secretary James Mattis were hosted by their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi.

"The 2+2 focused on operationalising India's status as a Major Defence Partner of the US, cooperation on global challenges, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," Wells said.

"The event culminated with the signing of the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">)</a>, which will facilitate greater interoperability between our forces, enhance information and intelligence sharing, and ensure that India has access to top-tier US military technology," she said.

"The finalisation of this agreement was a historic step and, since then, we have made significant strides toward finalising additional agreements that will enable our militaries and private sectors to work even closer together," she added.

India's strategic partnership with the US and its emergence as a leading global power was on display during other high-level gatherings this year, including two meetings of the quadrilateral partners (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) and at the India-Japan-US trilateral meeting at the G-20 summit last month.

"At these meetings, US and Indian officials discussed our shared commitment to maintaining and strengthening a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific based on respect and partnership, not domination," she said.

On the economic front, India-US trade relationship continues to grow, she said. Bilateral trade grew to $ 126 billion last year, and, parallel with the launch of the Strategic Energy Partnership, US-sourced oil and liquefied natural gas landed on Indian shores. "Still, we can do much more. US companies need better access to India's markets in order for us to realise the full potential of our economic partnership," Wells said.

She said the Trump administration looks forward to building on this relationship's momentum and working even more closely with the Indian counterparts on a range of shared strategic interests next year.

Nisha Desai Biswal, president of the US-India Business Council, believes 2018 experienced major upheavals impacting longstanding trade agreements and frameworks, with retaliatory tariffs, rising protectionism, and domestic political clashes spilling over into the economic policy of major economies.

"Despite these trade headwinds, the US-India commercial and strategic relationship continues to enjoy strong bipartisan support in the US, underpinned by rapidly expanding bilateral trade," she said.

On the US-India strategic front, proponents of greater interoperability scored some major wins, including the conferring of STA-1 status to India by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "This puts India on par with America"s closest allies," she said.

Biswal said that on the commercial front, the private sector will be watching closely to see whether the two governments can reach a bilateral trade deal and resolve key trade irritants impacting US business.

"Business community engagement will be particularly critical in 2019, with a challenging political environment in both countries making protectionist policy a significant concern," she said.

The resumption of the US-India Commercial Dialogue next February, a US-India CEO Forum and the potential for a Trade Policy Forum will make 2019 a particularly important year, Biswal said.

All eyes are right now on the upcoming elections and how that will impact the economy and overall investment climate, she noted.

Alyssa Ayres from the Council of Foreign Relations said bilateral ties have made good progress on strategic and defence front, but economic ties are bumpier.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a 'tariff king' in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators.

Notwithstanding irritants on trade issues, India and the US made "landmark" progress in 2018 to bolster their strategic and defence ties from holding the maiden trilateral meeting with Japan to the first-ever 2+2 dialogue during which they signed the long-pending COMCASA agreement that would open the way for sales of more sensitive US military equipment to India. The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a "tariff king" in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators as the two countries started talks on a bilateral trade deal. India was among the few countries, which received a waiver on Iran sanctions from the Trump administration, which also pressed Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack and announced a reward of $ 5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired to commit, or aided the 26/11 attack. "This has been a landmark year for US-India ties as we build out stronger relationships across the board," Alice Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, told PTI. "Last month, President Trump met in Buenos Aires with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the first US-India-Japan or 'JAI' meeting as Prime Minister Modi called it" between the three leaders, and Vice President (Mike) Pence reviewed the rapid development of the strategic partnership during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Singapore," said Wells, who has been Trump administration's point person for the South and Central Asia. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo described the first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September as "symbolic of our increasingly close partnership," she said. Pompeo along with Defence Secretary James Mattis were hosted by their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi. "The 2+2 focused on operationalising India's status as a Major Defence Partner of the US, cooperation on global challenges, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," Wells said. "The event culminated with the signing of the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), which will facilitate greater interoperability between our forces, enhance information and intelligence sharing, and ensure that India has access to top-tier US military technology," she said. "The finalisation of this agreement was a historic step and, since then, we have made significant strides toward finalising additional agreements that will enable our militaries and private sectors to work even closer together," she added. India's strategic partnership with the US and its emergence as a leading global power was on display during other high-level gatherings this year, including two meetings of the quadrilateral partners (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) and at the India-Japan-US trilateral meeting at the G-20 summit last month. "At these meetings, US and Indian officials discussed our shared commitment to maintaining and strengthening a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific based on respect and partnership, not domination," she said. On the economic front, India-US trade relationship continues to grow, she said. Bilateral trade grew to $ 126 billion last year, and, parallel with the launch of the Strategic Energy Partnership, US-sourced oil and liquefied natural gas landed on Indian shores. "Still, we can do much more. US companies need better access to India's markets in order for us to realise the full potential of our economic partnership," Wells said. She said the Trump administration looks forward to building on this relationship's momentum and working even more closely with the Indian counterparts on a range of shared strategic interests next year. Nisha Desai Biswal, president of the US-India Business Council, believes 2018 experienced major upheavals impacting longstanding trade agreements and frameworks, with retaliatory tariffs, rising protectionism, and domestic political clashes spilling over into the economic policy of major economies. "Despite these trade headwinds, the US-India commercial and strategic relationship continues to enjoy strong bipartisan support in the US, underpinned by rapidly expanding bilateral trade," she said. On the US-India strategic front, proponents of greater interoperability scored some major wins, including the conferring of STA-1 status to India by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "This puts India on par with America"s closest allies," she said. Biswal said that on the commercial front, the private sector will be watching closely to see whether the two governments can reach a bilateral trade deal and resolve key trade irritants impacting US business. "Business community engagement will be particularly critical in 2019, with a challenging political environment in both countries making protectionist policy a significant concern," she said. The resumption of the US-India Commercial Dialogue next February, a US-India CEO Forum and the potential for a Trade Policy Forum will make 2019 a particularly important year, Biswal said. All eyes are right now on the upcoming elections and how that will impact the economy and overall investment climate, she noted. Alyssa Ayres from the Council of Foreign Relations said bilateral ties have made good progress on strategic and defence front, but economic ties are bumpier.

2018: A landmark year for India-US strategic relationship

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blames-democrats-for-deaths-of-children-at-the-border-187260">Trump blames Democrats for deaths of children at the border</a>

United States President Donald Trump on Saturday once again blamed the Democrats, who obstructed his plans of building a wall in the southern border with Mexico to stop illegal migration, for the death of migrant children crossing into the US.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/polls-open-in-bangladesh-general-election-187274">Polls open in Bangladesh general election amid tight security</a>

Voting for the general elections in Bangladesh, to elect the country's next prime minister, began&nbsp;at 8:00 am on Sunday.Over 10 crore Bangladeshis are expected to&nbsp;vote in the single-phase general election in the country's 11th national parliamentary election.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/police-teargas-yellow-vest-protesters-in-paris-187277">Police teargas 'yellow vest' protesters in Paris</a>

Police fired tear gas at "yellow vest" demonstrators in Paris on Saturday but the turnout for round seven of the popular protests that have rocked France appeared low.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tokyos-prosecutors-set-to-decide-on-carlos-ghosns-detention-187268">Tokyo's prosecutors set to decide on Carlos Ghosn's detention</a>

Tokyo prosecutors are set to decide on the detention of former Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman Carlos Ghosn on Tuesday&nbsp;for financial misconduct. Ghosn was arrested for allegedly conspiring to understate his income by about half of the actual 10 billion yen ($88.66 million) over five years from 2010. His deputy, Greg Kelly, who was accused of assisting, was released from Tokyo Detention Centre on December 25.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">India beat Australia by 137 runs to win Melbourne Test</a>

India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an&nbsp;unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;

Trump blames Democrats for deaths of children at the border United States President Donald Trump on Saturday once again blamed the Democrats, who obstructed his plans of building a wall in the southern border with Mexico to stop illegal migration, for the death of migrant children crossing into the US.

Trump blames Democrats for deaths of children at the border United States President Donald Trump on Saturday once again blamed the Democrats, who obstructed his plans of building a wall in the southern border with Mexico to stop illegal migration, for the death of migrant children crossing into the US. Polls open in Bangladesh general election amid tight security Voting for the general elections in Bangladesh, to elect the country's next prime minister, began at 8:00 am on Sunday.Over 10 crore Bangladeshis are expected to vote in the single-phase general election in the country's 11th national parliamentary election. Police teargas 'yellow vest' protesters in Paris Police fired tear gas at "yellow vest" demonstrators in Paris on Saturday but the turnout for round seven of the popular protests that have rocked France appeared low. Tokyo's prosecutors set to decide on Carlos Ghosn's detention Tokyo prosecutors are set to decide on the detention of former Nissan Motor Co Ltd Chairman Carlos Ghosn on Tuesday for financial misconduct. Ghosn was arrested for allegedly conspiring to understate his income by about half of the actual 10 billion yen ($88.66 million) over five years from 2010. His deputy, Greg Kelly, who was accused of assisting, was released from Tokyo Detention Centre on December 25. India beat Australia by 137 runs to win Melbourne Test India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-ndrf-personnel-enter-shaft-to-ascertain-water-level-187381">Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level</a>

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-renames-3-islands-of-andaman-and-nicobar-187382">PM Modi renames 3 islands of Andaman and Nicobar</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday announced renaming of three islands of Andaman and Nicobar on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Tricolour hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose here.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/polls-close-in-bangladesh-election-marred-by-violence-12-dead-187346">Bangladesh elections: Voting ends, 12 killed in poll-related violence</a>

At least 12 people were killed in election-day clashes in Bangladesh Sunday, after a bloody campaign overshadowed by a crackdown on the opposition by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is expected to win a historic but controversial fourth term.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-will-ruin-families-will-launch-agitation-against-it-aimwplb-187352">Triple talaq bill will ruin families, will launch </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-will-ruin-families-will-launch-agitation-against-it-aimwplb-187352">agitation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-will-ruin-families-will-launch-agitation-against-it-aimwplb-187352"> against it: AIMWPLB</a>

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tale-of-rohingya-repatriation-stuck-in-limbo-one-of-the-biggest-humanitarian-crises-of-south-asia-187353">Rohingya repatriation stuck in limbo: One of the biggest humanitarian crisis of South Asia</a>

Over a year ago, in August 2017, Myanmar witnessed a conflict that sparked international concern. Western Myanmar’s Rakhine state saw hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims fleeing their homes following an army crackdown.&nbsp;

Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said. PM Modi renames 3 islands of Andaman and Nicobar Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday announced renaming of three islands of Andaman and Nicobar on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Tricolour hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose here. Bangladesh elections: Voting ends, 12 killed in poll-related violence At least 12 people were killed in election-day clashes in Bangladesh Sunday, after a bloody campaign overshadowed by a crackdown on the opposition by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is expected to win a historic but controversial fourth term. Triple talaq bill will ruin families, will launch agitation against it: AIMWPLB The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it. Rohingya repatriation stuck in limbo: One of the biggest humanitarian crisis of South Asia Over a year ago, in August 2017, Myanmar witnessed a conflict that sparked international concern. Western Myanmar’s Rakhine state saw hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims fleeing their homes following an army crackdown.

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

The Navy divers and their equipment arrived at the site around 1.30 pm Sunday after which the Navy personnel started measuring the actual level of the water in the mine shaft.&nbsp;

The 10 pumps brought by the rescue team from Odisha have been kept on standby. Meanwhile, the divers have also been kept on standby, the officials said.

The Navy wanted to ascertain the water level as their divers can operate up to 100 feet in a closed container-type situation, a district official said.

Nearly 200 rescuers from various agencies are stationed at the site. The Odisha Fire Service team had brought 10 high-powered pumps with them.

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East Jaintia Hills: Visuals of operations underway to rescue the trapped miners. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalayaminers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalayaminers</a> <a href="https://t.co/6eaPArPqpd">pic.twitter.com/6eaPArPqpd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079339454534279169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtynger said that at least two pumps will have to be lowered down to the water level inside the mine shaft to begin the operation.

Odisha Chief Fire Officer S Sethi said his team was tasked with pumping water out and they are ready for the job.

"Our only concern is that if we install the pumps now, the carbon exhaust may suffocate the entire mine shaft," Sethi said.

The remaining eight pumps will be placed at various locations identified in the area, he said.

One high-powered submersible pumps with an output capacity of 500 gallons per minute is arriving Sunday from CIL Ranchi, CIL Kolkata GM A K Bharali said.

Bharali, who arrived here four days ago, said that as soon as the generators and platforms are made available at the mine shaft, the pumping of water will begin.

Five more pumps from CIL Centres in Ranchi, Dhanbad and Asansol are on road and are expected to arrive anytime, he said.

A senior district official said a few pumps of Coal India Ltd have arrived in Guwahati and are expected to reach the site soon.

A team of 25 CIL personnel are at the site and survey teams are doing their job, Bharali said.

The miners have been trapped in the mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into it.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is coordinating the rescue operations with the help of Navy, the NDMA and Coal India Ltd.

"The Navy divers have reported that they have the capacity to go a depth of 100 feet, whereas the NDRF divers can go to a depth of 30 feet," East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtyngerthe said.

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said. The Navy divers and their equipment arrived at the site around 1.30 pm Sunday after which the Navy personnel started measuring the actual level of the water in the mine shaft. The 10 pumps brought by the rescue team from Odisha have been kept on standby. Meanwhile, the divers have also been kept on standby, the officials said. The Navy wanted to ascertain the water level as their divers can operate up to 100 feet in a closed container-type situation, a district official said. Nearly 200 rescuers from various agencies are stationed at the site. The Odisha Fire Service team had brought 10 high-powered pumps with them. East Jaintia Hills: Visuals of operations underway to rescue the trapped miners. #Meghalayaminers pic.twitter.com/6eaPArPqpd — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtynger said that at least two pumps will have to be lowered down to the water level inside the mine shaft to begin the operation. Odisha Chief Fire Officer S Sethi said his team was tasked with pumping water out and they are ready for the job. "Our only concern is that if we install the pumps now, the carbon exhaust may suffocate the entire mine shaft," Sethi said. The remaining eight pumps will be placed at various locations identified in the area, he said. One high-powered submersible pumps with an output capacity of 500 gallons per minute is arriving Sunday from CIL Ranchi, CIL Kolkata GM A K Bharali said. Bharali, who arrived here four days ago, said that as soon as the generators and platforms are made available at the mine shaft, the pumping of water will begin. Five more pumps from CIL Centres in Ranchi, Dhanbad and Asansol are on road and are expected to arrive anytime, he said. A senior district official said a few pumps of Coal India Ltd have arrived in Guwahati and are expected to reach the site soon. A team of 25 CIL personnel are at the site and survey teams are doing their job, Bharali said. The miners have been trapped in the mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into it. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is coordinating the rescue operations with the help of Navy, the NDMA and Coal India Ltd. "The Navy divers have reported that they have the capacity to go a depth of 100 feet, whereas the NDRF divers can go to a depth of 30 feet," East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtyngerthe said.

Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level

Some suspected militants looted four AK-47 rifles from the residence of a legislator in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.

The incident took place at the house of Congress Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Muzaffar Parray, who resides in Jawahar Nagar area of the city.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Suspected terrorists loot four AK rifles from the residence of Congress legislator (MLC) Muzaffar Parray from Jawahar Nagar area of Srinagar. Police have filed a case and an alert sounded in Srinagar. More details awaited.
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Police have filed a case and this regard and an alert has been sounded in Srinagar to nab the suspect terrorists. More details of this incident are awaited.

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J&amp;K Police: Reportedly 4 weapons have gone missing from a residence of former MLC Muzaffar Ahmad Parray in Jawaharnagar area. Case registered. 3 policemen from security wing &amp; 1 from District Police Sopore attached with the former legislator have been summoned for questioning. <a href="https://t.co/wd4bEc4yb0">https://t.co/wd4bEc4yb0</a>
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Earlier in the day, a possible terror attack at a military station in Jammu was foiled by the alert Army jawans.&nbsp;

The Army noticed some suspicious movement at around 2 am at Ratnuchak Military station and spotted two suspects approaching the Army gate.&nbsp;

The gun battle ensued after the Army guards stopped the suspects. However, the suspects managed to flee the spot.&nbsp;

Some suspected militants looted four AK-47 rifles from the residence of a legislator in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The incident took place at the house of Congress Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Muzaffar Parray, who resides in Jawahar Nagar area of the city.

Some suspected militants looted four AK-47 rifles from the residence of a legislator in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The incident took place at the house of Congress Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Muzaffar Parray, who resides in Jawahar Nagar area of the city. #JammuAndKashmir: Suspected terrorists loot four AK rifles from the residence of Congress legislator (MLC) Muzaffar Parray from Jawahar Nagar area of Srinagar. Police have filed a case and an alert sounded in Srinagar. More details awaited. — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × Police have filed a case and this regard and an alert has been sounded in Srinagar to nab the suspect terrorists. More details of this incident are awaited. J&K Police: Reportedly 4 weapons have gone missing from a residence of former MLC Muzaffar Ahmad Parray in Jawaharnagar area. Case registered. 3 policemen from security wing & 1 from District Police Sopore attached with the former legislator have been summoned for questioning. https://t.co/wd4bEc4yb0 — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × Earlier in the day, a possible terror attack at a military station in Jammu was foiled by the alert Army jawans. The Army noticed some suspicious movement at around 2 am at Ratnuchak Military station and spotted two suspects approaching the Army gate. The gun battle ensued after the Army guards stopped the suspects. However, the suspects managed to flee the spot.

Suspected terrorists loot AK-47 rifles from Jammu & Kashmir legislator's residence

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019.

The party said that after the BJP came to power at the Centre, the Defence Ministry lifted the ban on AgustaWestland imposed during the UPA rule and even allowed it to bid for 100 naval utility helicopters.

"The ED may save the Modi government today, but when it is voted out of power in 2019, we are committed to fully investigate PM Modi and his government's collusion with AgustaWestland," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

He added, "Under Modi, the ED has become an embarrassing disaster."

The attack came a day after the probe agency, investigating the AgustaWestland case, told a court that accused middleman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-scam-christian-michel-named-mrs-gandhi-son-of-italian-lady-in-probe-ed-tells-court-187221">Christian Michel has made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi"</a>.

Surjewala alleged that the government was pressuring Michel to make a "false" statement against the Gandhi family and dared it to place in the public domain any such evidence it has against the Congress leadership.

He accused the government of trying to hide its own "collusion" in AgustaWestland case by creating a lot of noise.

"They are using Christian Michel as a sounding board to defend its own wrong doings and misdeeds. Panicking and running scared, PM Modi and his government are now raking up controversies to hide its own government's connivance," he said.

"It is now clear that the 'chowkidaar is daagdaar' (the watchman is tainted)," he alleged.

Surjewala also posed a set of six questions to the government and asked why the Defence Ministry ended the ban on AgustaWestland in July 2014 and made the company a part of the 'Make in India' programme.

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019.

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019. The party said that after the BJP came to power at the Centre, the Defence Ministry lifted the ban on AgustaWestland imposed during the UPA rule and even allowed it to bid for 100 naval utility helicopters. "The ED may save the Modi government today, but when it is voted out of power in 2019, we are committed to fully investigate PM Modi and his government's collusion with AgustaWestland," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters. He added, "Under Modi, the ED has become an embarrassing disaster." The attack came a day after the probe agency, investigating the AgustaWestland case, told a court that accused middleman Christian Michel has made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi". Surjewala alleged that the government was pressuring Michel to make a "false" statement against the Gandhi family and dared it to place in the public domain any such evidence it has against the Congress leadership. He accused the government of trying to hide its own "collusion" in AgustaWestland case by creating a lot of noise. "They are using Christian Michel as a sounding board to defend its own wrong doings and misdeeds. Panicking and running scared, PM Modi and his government are now raking up controversies to hide its own government's connivance," he said. "It is now clear that the 'chowkidaar is daagdaar' (the watchman is tainted)," he alleged. Surjewala also posed a set of six questions to the government and asked why the Defence Ministry ended the ban on AgustaWestland in July 2014 and made the company a part of the 'Make in India' programme.

Under Modi, ED has become 'embarrassing disaster': Congress hits back on 'Mrs Gandhi' claim

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-pulling-its-citizens-out-of-poverty-at-a-record-pace-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-187307">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

In his monthly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bapu-had-a-special-connection-with-south-africa-pm-in-last-mann-ki-baat-of-2018-187317">'Mann ki Baat' radio address</a>, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh.&nbsp;

"If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said.

He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective.&nbsp;

"This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt.

The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj.

The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education.&nbsp;

It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide. In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh. "If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said. He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective. "This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt. The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj. The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. "Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said. He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education. It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Hope sanitation prevails along with reverence: PM Modi on Kumbh Mela

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indigo-buys-stake-in-icelands-wow-air-180478">Budget carrier IndiGo</a> has become the first domestic airline to have longer range Airbus A321neo plane in its fleet with the first aircraft arriving Saturday morning in New Delhi from the European aviation major Airbus' Hamburg facility in Germany, an airline source said.

The maiden A321neo (new engine option), VT-IUA, landed at 9.06 am at Terminal-3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and was accorded the traditional water canon salute on arrival, the source told PTI.

The new aircraft has joined the fleet after a delay of one month. It was to join the fleet on November 29 as per the earlier schedule, he said.

The induction of the first A321neo, of the 150 on order, will help IndiGo spread its wings to medium-haul international destinations.

Flights of up to six hours duration come under medium- long-haul category of operations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-lucknow-indigo-flight-grounded-after-bomb-threat-call-184188">IndiGo </a>now has 204 planes in its fleet, including one A321neo, 65 A320neos, 126 A320ceos (current engine option), and 12 ATRs, the source said.

The longer range A321neo plane has been delivered to the airline at a time when it is struggling with the frequent glitches in the Pratt &amp; Whitney engines, powering these planes, and taking these aircraft out of operations on a regular basis.

These engine-run aircraft have been facing glitches frequently since their induction in the fleet by IndiGo and GoAir in 2016, with several instances of mid-air engine shutdowns.

But the US engine maker has failed to come up with any tangible solution to fix these glitches so far despite the frequent grounding of these planes and passengers' safety at risk.

The airline has already announced its plans to launch services to Istanbul and has also signed a code-share pact with the Turkish Airlines for seamless connectivity to 20 global destinations for its passengers from Istanbul and onwards.

In turn, passengers of the Turkish national carrier will have access to all destinations operated by IndiGo within India.

IndiGo at present operates over 1,300 daily flights to 52 domestic and 15 international destinations.

The airline had in two tranches placed an order for 430 A320neos (180 in 2011 and 250 in 2015) with Airbus. Later, it converted 150 of these 430 planes to A321neos.

Budget carrier IndiGo has become the first domestic airline to have longer range Airbus A321neo plane in its fleet with the first aircraft arriving Saturday morning in New Delhi from the European aviation major Airbus' Hamburg facility in Germany, an airline source said.

Budget carrier IndiGo has become the first domestic airline to have longer range Airbus A321neo plane in its fleet with the first aircraft arriving Saturday morning in New Delhi from the European aviation major Airbus' Hamburg facility in Germany, an airline source said. The maiden A321neo (new engine option), VT-IUA, landed at 9.06 am at Terminal-3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and was accorded the traditional water canon salute on arrival, the source told PTI. The new aircraft has joined the fleet after a delay of one month. It was to join the fleet on November 29 as per the earlier schedule, he said. The induction of the first A321neo, of the 150 on order, will help IndiGo spread its wings to medium-haul international destinations. Flights of up to six hours duration come under medium- long-haul category of operations. IndiGo now has 204 planes in its fleet, including one A321neo, 65 A320neos, 126 A320ceos (current engine option), and 12 ATRs, the source said. The longer range A321neo plane has been delivered to the airline at a time when it is struggling with the frequent glitches in the Pratt & Whitney engines, powering these planes, and taking these aircraft out of operations on a regular basis. These engine-run aircraft have been facing glitches frequently since their induction in the fleet by IndiGo and GoAir in 2016, with several instances of mid-air engine shutdowns. But the US engine maker has failed to come up with any tangible solution to fix these glitches so far despite the frequent grounding of these planes and passengers' safety at risk. The airline has already announced its plans to launch services to Istanbul and has also signed a code-share pact with the Turkish Airlines for seamless connectivity to 20 global destinations for its passengers from Istanbul and onwards. In turn, passengers of the Turkish national carrier will have access to all destinations operated by IndiGo within India. IndiGo at present operates over 1,300 daily flights to 52 domestic and 15 international destinations. The airline had in two tranches placed an order for 430 A320neos (180 in 2011 and 250 in 2015) with Airbus. Later, it converted 150 of these 430 planes to A321neos.

IndiGo becomes first domestic airline to get longer range Airbus A321neo plane

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News brief: Big stories of the day

News brief: Big stories of the day

Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level

Suspected terrorists loot AK-47 rifles from Jammu & Kashmir legislator's residence

Under Modi, ED has become 'embarrassing disaster': Congress hits back on 'Mrs Gandhi' claim

Hope sanitation prevails along with reverence: PM Modi on Kumbh Mela

IndiGo becomes first domestic airline to get longer range Airbus A321neo plane