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An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorist on Friday in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: An encounter underway between security forces &amp; terrorists in Sekipora area of Bijbehara in Anantnag district. 2 to 3 terrorists are believed to be trapped. More details awaited.
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According to a report by ANI, six terrorists have been killed in the encounter.

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Anantnag encounter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Six terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Arms and ammunition recovered. Operation continues <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/AwZ2fM90HF">pic.twitter.com/AwZ2fM90HF</a>
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The area has been cordoned off for security purposes. Arms and ammunition were also recovered.

The encounter has stopped, however, the search operation is still on.

Indian Army's 3 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and police are jointly conducting the ongoing operation.

Further details of the incident are awaited.

The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months.

Earlier this week one soldier and four terrorists were killed in Shopian district after an encounter broke out in a village.

Two terrorists associated with terror outfit Al-Badr were also killed last week in an encounter in Rebben area of the Shopian district. On the same day, a Central Reserve Police Force jawan lost his life after terrorists opened fire on a CRPF camp at Railway Colony in Pulwama's Kakapora area.

&nbsp;

An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorist on Friday in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. #JammuAndKashmir: An encounter underway between security forces & terrorists in Sekipora area of Bijbehara in Anantnag district.

An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorist on Friday in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. #JammuAndKashmir: An encounter underway between security forces & terrorists in Sekipora area of Bijbehara in Anantnag district. 2 to 3 terrorists are believed to be trapped. More details awaited. — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × According to a report by ANI, six terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Anantnag encounter #UPDATE: Six terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Arms and ammunition recovered. Operation continues #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/AwZ2fM90HF — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × The area has been cordoned off for security purposes. Arms and ammunition were also recovered. The encounter has stopped, however, the search operation is still on. Indian Army's 3 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and police are jointly conducting the ongoing operation. Further details of the incident are awaited. The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months. Earlier this week one soldier and four terrorists were killed in Shopian district after an encounter broke out in a village. Two terrorists associated with terror outfit Al-Badr were also killed last week in an encounter in Rebben area of the Shopian district. On the same day, a Central Reserve Police Force jawan lost his life after terrorists opened fire on a CRPF camp at Railway Colony in Pulwama's Kakapora area.

Video: 6 terrorists gunned down in J&K's Anantnag encounter; search operation underway

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is among the nine candidates facing criminal cases out of over 200 in the fray for the state Assembly election, according to a report by two civil society organisations.

Mizo National Front (MNF) president and former chief minister Zoramthanga is another bigwig fighting criminal charges, the report of the Mizoram Election Watch (MEW) and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) said.

It is based on affidavits filed to the Election Commission by the aspirants.

The others facing criminal charges are V Malsawmtluanga (Independent), Vl Zahawma Chawngthu (BJP), Rasik Mohan Chakma (MNF), Lalduhpuii (BJP), James Thanghmingmawia (Congress) and R Lalthangliana (MNF).

Out of the nine contestants, only four are facing serious criminal cases, it said.

While the Congress and the MNF are contesting all 40 constituencies this time, the BJP is fighting in 39 seats with an aim to open its account for the first time in Mizoram.

The state goes to poll on November 28.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is among the nine candidates facing criminal cases out of over 200 in the fray for the state Assembly election, according to a report by two civil society organisations.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla is among the nine candidates facing criminal cases out of over 200 in the fray for the state Assembly election, according to a report by two civil society organisations. Mizo National Front (MNF) president and former chief minister Zoramthanga is another bigwig fighting criminal charges, the report of the Mizoram Election Watch (MEW) and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) said. It is based on affidavits filed to the Election Commission by the aspirants. The others facing criminal charges are V Malsawmtluanga (Independent), Vl Zahawma Chawngthu (BJP), Rasik Mohan Chakma (MNF), Lalduhpuii (BJP), James Thanghmingmawia (Congress) and R Lalthangliana (MNF). Out of the nine contestants, only four are facing serious criminal cases, it said. While the Congress and the MNF are contesting all 40 constituencies this time, the BJP is fighting in 39 seats with an aim to open its account for the first time in Mizoram. The state goes to poll on November 28.

Mizoram CM Lal Thanhawla among nine candidates facing criminal cases

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said.

"Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added.

Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian.

The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday.

The BJP condemned Babbar's remark.

The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics.

"But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed.

"Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.&nbsp;

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi. Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said. "Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added. Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian. The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday. The BJP condemned Babbar's remark. The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics. "But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed. "Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.

Babbar compares rupee's falling value with age of Modi's mother, BJP demands apology

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/karachi-police-woman-officer-prevented-terrorists-from-reaching-chinese-consulate-staff-178989">Karachi </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/karachi-police-woman-officer-prevented-terrorists-from-reaching-chinese-consulate-staff-178989">Police woman</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/karachi-police-woman-officer-prevented-terrorists-from-reaching-chinese-consulate-staff-178989"> officer prevented terrorists from reaching Chinese consulate staff</a>

A fearless woman officer of Karachi Police, who was once abandoned by relatives in her village for joining a private school, on Friday saved the lives of many Chinese diplomatic staff when&nbsp;heavily-armed terrorists stormed the mission in the Pakistani city.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uk-pm-may-eu-wont-give-us-better-brexit-deal-if-parliament-rejects-current-one-179018">EU won't give us </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uk-pm-may-eu-wont-give-us-better-brexit-deal-if-parliament-rejects-current-one-179018">better</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uk-pm-may-eu-wont-give-us-better-brexit-deal-if-parliament-rejects-current-one-179018"> Brexit deal if parliament rejects current one: UK PM May</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday the European Union would not renegotiate the Brexit deal if Britain's parliament rejected the current version of the exit agreement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-took-us-only-17-mins-to-demolish-babri-masjid-sanjay-raut-179008">It took us only 17 mins to demolish Babri Masjid: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut</a>

In what could stir up a possible controversy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday implied that it would not take long to bring an ordinance for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya when it took only 17 minutes for the Ram bhakts (devotees) to demolish Babri Masjid.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-trump-turning-a-blind-eye-to-khashoggi-murder-179009">Turkey says Trump turning a 'blind eye' to Khashoggi murder</a>

Turkey on Friday said US President Donald Trump intended to turn a "blind eye" to Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder after he said it would&nbsp;not affect Washington's ties with Riyadh.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/30-killed-40-injured-in-powerful-blast-in-pakistans-northwest-179001">30 killed, 40 injured in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/30-killed-40-injured-in-powerful-blast-in-pakistans-northwest-179001">powerful</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/30-killed-40-injured-in-powerful-blast-in-pakistans-northwest-179001"> blast in Pakistan's northwest</a>

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market outside a religious seminary in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 40 others, officials said.

Karachi Police woman officer prevented terrorists from reaching Chinese consulate staff A fearless woman officer of Karachi Police, who was once abandoned by relatives in her village for joining a private school, on Friday saved the lives of many Chinese diplomatic staff when heavily-armed terrorists stormed the mission in the Pakistani city.

Karachi Police woman officer prevented terrorists from reaching Chinese consulate staff A fearless woman officer of Karachi Police, who was once abandoned by relatives in her village for joining a private school, on Friday saved the lives of many Chinese diplomatic staff when heavily-armed terrorists stormed the mission in the Pakistani city. EU won't give us better Brexit deal if parliament rejects current one: UK PM May Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday the European Union would not renegotiate the Brexit deal if Britain's parliament rejected the current version of the exit agreement. It took us only 17 mins to demolish Babri Masjid: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut In what could stir up a possible controversy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday implied that it would not take long to bring an ordinance for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya when it took only 17 minutes for the Ram bhakts (devotees) to demolish Babri Masjid. Turkey says Trump turning a 'blind eye' to Khashoggi murder Turkey on Friday said US President Donald Trump intended to turn a "blind eye" to Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder after he said it would not affect Washington's ties with Riyadh. 30 killed, 40 injured in powerful blast in Pakistan's northwest A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market outside a religious seminary in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 40 others, officials said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Memories of the Mumbai attacks ten years on

Andhra Pradesh has topped the list of states with the highest employability followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, as per the India Skills Report 2019.

The employability levels of B.Tech/B.E have increased across all the sectors, touching a new high of 63.11 per cent, which remained at 42.08 last year.

However, the employability levels of MBA and polytechnic stand low between 47.18 per cent and 45.90 per cent.

Despite the lack of renowned institutions like IITs/IIMs, the growth trend can be seen in tier II and tier III cities.

Further, the report stated that Andhra Pradesh is one of the preferred hiring destinations in India, which offers equal space to both male and female workers.

The students from ITIs, polytechnic and engineering colleges are identified and ranked for their top skills, including work ethics, verbal communication, analytical and critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, written communication skills.

"The increase in employability in Andhra Pradesh is a good sign for the market. But we have a long way to go and entire ecosystem should focus on bridging the employability gaps, enhancing the talent pool thus taking measures from school level to professional level focusing on learning," said Founder and CEO - Wheebox, Nirmal Singh.

"Educational institutes should work on the skills of students and they should be given a proper platform to explore and develop their skills as it would help them to follow a right direction towards their career," he added.

The India Skills Report 2019 further held that around 70 per cent of the youth face problem due to lack of professional guidance in finding desirable jobs that worth their skills.&nbsp;

The report also highlights the fact that from FMCG to startups, every industry offers paid or unpaid internship programmes to youth.

According to the report, a small percentage of students in all states have done at least one internship in the past twelve months.

Another insight from the report shows that 80 per cent of assessed candidates are willing to explore internship opportunities as they believe that it would assist them in getting employed in reputed firms, whereas 85 per cent candidates feel they lack proper information or guidance to take a thought-out career decision.

For the employability test, the team reached out to more than 3 lakh students across 29 States and 7 Union Territories.

Moreover, the key sectors for hiring employees are artificial intelligence, design, analytics, research and development.

The report also says that apart from domain expertise and skills, organisations usually prefer to hire those candidates who possess better communication skills and are willing to learn and adapt to changing business environment.

Around 60 per cent recruiters feel that the right candidates are not available as many of them don't meet the required skills.

The survey was conducted jointly by Wheebox, PeopleStrong, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and supported and backed by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Andhra Pradesh has topped the list of states with the highest employability followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, as per the India Skills Report 2019. The employability levels of B.

Andhra Pradesh has topped the list of states with the highest employability followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, as per the India Skills Report 2019. The employability levels of B.Tech/B.E have increased across all the sectors, touching a new high of 63.11 per cent, which remained at 42.08 last year. However, the employability levels of MBA and polytechnic stand low between 47.18 per cent and 45.90 per cent. Despite the lack of renowned institutions like IITs/IIMs, the growth trend can be seen in tier II and tier III cities. Further, the report stated that Andhra Pradesh is one of the preferred hiring destinations in India, which offers equal space to both male and female workers. The students from ITIs, polytechnic and engineering colleges are identified and ranked for their top skills, including work ethics, verbal communication, analytical and critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, written communication skills. "The increase in employability in Andhra Pradesh is a good sign for the market. But we have a long way to go and entire ecosystem should focus on bridging the employability gaps, enhancing the talent pool thus taking measures from school level to professional level focusing on learning," said Founder and CEO - Wheebox, Nirmal Singh. "Educational institutes should work on the skills of students and they should be given a proper platform to explore and develop their skills as it would help them to follow a right direction towards their career," he added. The India Skills Report 2019 further held that around 70 per cent of the youth face problem due to lack of professional guidance in finding desirable jobs that worth their skills. The report also highlights the fact that from FMCG to startups, every industry offers paid or unpaid internship programmes to youth. According to the report, a small percentage of students in all states have done at least one internship in the past twelve months. Another insight from the report shows that 80 per cent of assessed candidates are willing to explore internship opportunities as they believe that it would assist them in getting employed in reputed firms, whereas 85 per cent candidates feel they lack proper information or guidance to take a thought-out career decision. For the employability test, the team reached out to more than 3 lakh students across 29 States and 7 Union Territories. Moreover, the key sectors for hiring employees are artificial intelligence, design, analytics, research and development. The report also says that apart from domain expertise and skills, organisations usually prefer to hire those candidates who possess better communication skills and are willing to learn and adapt to changing business environment. Around 60 per cent recruiters feel that the right candidates are not available as many of them don't meet the required skills. The survey was conducted jointly by Wheebox, PeopleStrong, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and supported and backed by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

India skills report: Andhra Pradesh tops in employability rate, talent quality

Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference chairman Sajjad Gani Lone on Friday said that PDP-Congress-NC formed 'opportunistic alliance' to stall government of third-front led by People's Conference.&nbsp;

"This alliance was an opportunistic alliance to ensure and stall the entry of third regional party. But now they have failed and we have emerged and we shall go to the people and then let the people decide what to do," he told a press conference.

Hitting out at National Conference chief Omar Abdullah, who criticised Lone for aligning with BJP, he said if aligning with BJP is a crime, then it was he who first committed that crime, he said.&nbsp;

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If aligning with BJP is a crime, then it is Omar Abdullah who first committed this crime. He was once the poster boy of NDA. Madam Sahiba (Mehbooba Mufti) was also in power with them for 3 years. But when we do it, it's wrong: Sajjad Gani Lone,People's Conference.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hx3C72Z1bo">pic.twitter.com/Hx3C72Z1bo</a>
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Omar Abdullah was once the poster boy of National Democratic Alliance (NDA), he said.

''Mehbooba Mufti was also in power with them for three years. But when we do it, it's wrong,'' Lone said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

People's Conference leader also contested Mehbooba Mufti's claim to form the government in the state.&nbsp;

Lone asserted that he staked claim to form the government in the state as he possessed the required number of legislators in the Assembly.

"We staked the claim as we had the numbers. Had there been a floor test or had we been told to bring in the numbers, then what is within the purview of the constitution would have happened," Lone told.

Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference chairman Sajjad Gani Lone on Friday said that PDP-Congress-NC formed 'opportunistic alliance' to stall government of third-front led by People's Conference.

Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference chairman Sajjad Gani Lone on Friday said that PDP-Congress-NC formed 'opportunistic alliance' to stall government of third-front led by People's Conference. "This alliance was an opportunistic alliance to ensure and stall the entry of third regional party. But now they have failed and we have emerged and we shall go to the people and then let the people decide what to do," he told a press conference. Hitting out at National Conference chief Omar Abdullah, who criticised Lone for aligning with BJP, he said if aligning with BJP is a crime, then it was he who first committed that crime, he said. If aligning with BJP is a crime, then it is Omar Abdullah who first committed this crime. He was once the poster boy of NDA. Madam Sahiba (Mehbooba Mufti) was also in power with them for 3 years. But when we do it, it's wrong: Sajjad Gani Lone,People's Conference.#JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/Hx3C72Z1bo — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × Omar Abdullah was once the poster boy of National Democratic Alliance (NDA), he said. ''Mehbooba Mufti was also in power with them for three years. But when we do it, it's wrong,'' Lone said. People's Conference leader also contested Mehbooba Mufti's claim to form the government in the state. Lone asserted that he staked claim to form the government in the state as he possessed the required number of legislators in the Assembly. "We staked the claim as we had the numbers. Had there been a floor test or had we been told to bring in the numbers, then what is within the purview of the constitution would have happened," Lone told.

If aligning with BJP is crime, Omar Abdullah committed that crime first: Sajjad Gani Lone

In what could stir up a possible controversy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday implied that it would not take long to bring an ordinance for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya when it took only 17 minutes for the Ram bhakts (devotees) to demolish Babri Masjid.

Raut told ANI, "It took only around 17 minutes for us - the Ram bhakts - to destroy the Babri Masjid. So, how long will it take to bring an ordinance? From Rashtrapati Bhawan to Uttar Pradesh`s Vidhan Sabha, it is the Bharatiya Janata Party that is in power. In Rajya Sabha also there are many members who will support Ram Mandir from across party lines. Whoever opposes its construction will not be able to survive in peace in the country."

A big push for Temple construction came on Tuesday when a litigant Mohammad Iqbal Ansari, in the Babri Masjid case, said that he does not have any objection to an ordinance for Ram Temple construction.

On October 29, the Supreme Court had adjourned the title suit till January 2019 to fix the date of hearing in the matter. The top court adjourned the matter which challenged the Allahabad High Court ruling of 2010.

The Court in its 2010 verdict had suggested a division of the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts - one for each of the parties - the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla.

On December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid which was built by Mughal emperor Babur in Ayodhya in 1528, was razed to the ground allegedly by Hindu activists who claimed that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram Temple that originally stood there.

In what could stir up a possible controversy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday implied that it would not take long to bring an ordinance for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya when it took only 17 minutes for the Ram bhakts (devotees) to demolish Babri Masjid.

In what could stir up a possible controversy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Friday implied that it would not take long to bring an ordinance for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya when it took only 17 minutes for the Ram bhakts (devotees) to demolish Babri Masjid. Raut told ANI, "It took only around 17 minutes for us - the Ram bhakts - to destroy the Babri Masjid. So, how long will it take to bring an ordinance? From Rashtrapati Bhawan to Uttar Pradesh`s Vidhan Sabha, it is the Bharatiya Janata Party that is in power. In Rajya Sabha also there are many members who will support Ram Mandir from across party lines. Whoever opposes its construction will not be able to survive in peace in the country." A big push for Temple construction came on Tuesday when a litigant Mohammad Iqbal Ansari, in the Babri Masjid case, said that he does not have any objection to an ordinance for Ram Temple construction. On October 29, the Supreme Court had adjourned the title suit till January 2019 to fix the date of hearing in the matter. The top court adjourned the matter which challenged the Allahabad High Court ruling of 2010. The Court in its 2010 verdict had suggested a division of the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts - one for each of the parties - the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. On December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid which was built by Mughal emperor Babur in Ayodhya in 1528, was razed to the ground allegedly by Hindu activists who claimed that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram Temple that originally stood there.

It took us only 17 mins to demolish Babri Masjid: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier.

Rao, the caretaker chief minister, slammed the Centre for keeping on hold a decision on raising reservations for Muslims and Scheduled Tribes from 4 to 12 per cent and 6 to 10 per cent in state government jobs and educational institutions despite the state assembly passing a resolution.

"Narendra Modi and the BJP have a disease...In everything they see, they see Hindu-Muslim (divide). They don't see anything else and so they did not do it (raise the quotas)...They have kept it pending," he told an election rally at Narsampet.

Addressing another election meeting in Mahabubabad, the TRS president repeated his charge and accused the Centre of "religious madness".

"Narendra Modi government has a disease. That is minorities (versus) Hindus...They are in that state of 'mataparamaina pichi' (communal madness)). It is because of this they blocked reservations for STs and Muslims," he said.

Rao said he will ensure that the demand for raising the quotas was accepted if people elected TRS candidates from all the 17 Lok Sabha seats of Telangana next year.

"Not only the Assembly elections...With kindness, help us win all 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. Only if we win can we make Delhi bend its neck.&nbsp;We will get our ST reservation, we will get our Muslim reservation," he said.

The TRS leader claimed both the BJP and the Congress wanted to exercise complete control over the states.

"It doesn't matter which of the two parties forms the government at the Centre. Their attitude is the same. Both Congress and the BJP want to concentrate all powers over states into their hands. This is their culture," he said.

Rao once again batted for a non-Congress, non-BJP "federal front" government at the Centre to end that culture.

The TRS chief, who has been assailing the Congress-led opposition coalition that includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's TDP, asked people at his Narasampet rally whether Telangana needed Naidu. He has been accusing Naidu of stalling the development of&nbsp;Telangana when it was part of undivided Andhra Pradesh.

He hit out at the Congress for merging the Telangana region with Andhra against the wishes of the people of Telangana. He also accused the Congress government of suppressing the agitation for a separate Telangana in 1969.

Rao said Congress leaders were silent when "injustice" was being done to Telangana region in undivided Andhra Pradesh and were trying to bring Naidu back to Telangana now.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier. Rao, the caretaker chief minister, slammed the Centre for keeping on hold a decision on raising reservations for Muslims and Scheduled Tribes from 4 to 12 per cent and 6 to 10 per cent in state government jobs and educational institutions despite the state assembly passing a resolution. "Narendra Modi and the BJP have a disease...In everything they see, they see Hindu-Muslim (divide). They don't see anything else and so they did not do it (raise the quotas)...They have kept it pending," he told an election rally at Narsampet. Addressing another election meeting in Mahabubabad, the TRS president repeated his charge and accused the Centre of "religious madness". "Narendra Modi government has a disease. That is minorities (versus) Hindus...They are in that state of 'mataparamaina pichi' (communal madness)). It is because of this they blocked reservations for STs and Muslims," he said. Rao said he will ensure that the demand for raising the quotas was accepted if people elected TRS candidates from all the 17 Lok Sabha seats of Telangana next year. "Not only the Assembly elections...With kindness, help us win all 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. Only if we win can we make Delhi bend its neck. We will get our ST reservation, we will get our Muslim reservation," he said. The TRS leader claimed both the BJP and the Congress wanted to exercise complete control over the states. "It doesn't matter which of the two parties forms the government at the Centre. Their attitude is the same. Both Congress and the BJP want to concentrate all powers over states into their hands. This is their culture," he said. Rao once again batted for a non-Congress, non-BJP "federal front" government at the Centre to end that culture. The TRS chief, who has been assailing the Congress-led opposition coalition that includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's TDP, asked people at his Narasampet rally whether Telangana needed Naidu. He has been accusing Naidu of stalling the development of Telangana when it was part of undivided Andhra Pradesh. He hit out at the Congress for merging the Telangana region with Andhra against the wishes of the people of Telangana. He also accused the Congress government of suppressing the agitation for a separate Telangana in 1969. Rao said Congress leaders were silent when "injustice" was being done to Telangana region in undivided Andhra Pradesh and were trying to bring Naidu back to Telangana now.

Modi has the 'disease' that causes 'communal madness': Rao

Battling encroachment, haphazard construction and deforestation, the picturesque town of Gulmarg will be developed into an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable tourist destination, the Gulmarg Master Plan-2032, approved by the Jammu and Kashmir government, has envisaged.

The State Administrative Council (SAC) which met here Thursday evening under the chairmanship of Governor Satya Pal Malik approved the Master Plan, an official spokesman said Friday.

The plan proposes to maximise the contribution of Gulmarg and its surroundings to the state's economy, while preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage, the official said.

At the same time, it proposes to provide the best hospitality, excellent value for money and memorable experiences to every visitor and develop Gulmarg as one of the preferred all-weather international tourist destinations.

According to the official, the main features of the plan include the development of Tangmarg area in the vicinity of Gulmarg as Satellite-Tourist-Township with flexible set of Development Control Regulations (DCRs) to attract developers for high-end tourism infrastructure.

"This concept is aimed at reducing further the footprint of development in Gulmarg which has very limited carrying capacity," the official said.

The significant part of Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) especially Gulmarg, Khillanmarg, Botapathri and nearby areas included in the territorial jurisdiction of Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary and Biosphere reserve will not be used for any high built-up infrastructure development, the official said.

"Instead such areas have been proposed for leisure-tourism, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism," the official said.

Bed capacity of Gulmarg has been increased by extra accommodation in the form of the tourist resort in the south-west of Bowl and hutments and camping sites on the western end of Leopard Valley besides eco-tourism areas.

The Master Plan also envisages development of tourist resorts in Tangmarg, Botapathri, Khillanmarg as model ecotourism sites in collaboration with the local communities, wildlife and forest department and development of Drung as heritage village with limited tourist activity.

The banning of any kind of compound walling in the area, development of Maahayeen, Qazipur, and Ferozpur as model villages and Baba Reshie area as heritage area with facilities for pilgrim tourism is also expected, the official added.

The plan further proposes biodiversity parks of Kashmir Himalayan Flora in Gulmarg; separate entry and exit points to avoid traffic congestions and Pony Management to arrest horse dung posing a serious problem in the resort as most of it is littered creating an unpleasant landscape. &nbsp;

The preparations of Master Plan-2032 were initiated pursuant to the orders of the High Court in PIL titled Mohammad Rafiq Zargar versus State and Others, the official said.

The preparation was preceded by environmental impact assessment and GIS mapping of the Gulmarg part of the local area. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Draft Master Plan-2032 prepared by the Town Planning Organisation, Kashmir has been extensively examined by the tourism department for the last five years with the High Court closely monitoring its preparation. &nbsp;

The plan was also put in public domain for inviting objections and suggestions and the tourism department had constituted a committee to examine the inputs, they said, adding that proposals which were found to be useful were factored in the final Draft Master Plan.

The Master Plan does not intend to regularise any violation or construction made in contravention to the permission granted earlier or any construction without valid permission, the official said.

Battling encroachment, haphazard construction and deforestation, the picturesque town of Gulmarg will be developed into an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable tourist destination, the Gulmarg Master Plan-2032, approved by the Jammu and Kashmir government, has envisaged.

Battling encroachment, haphazard construction and deforestation, the picturesque town of Gulmarg will be developed into an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable tourist destination, the Gulmarg Master Plan-2032, approved by the Jammu and Kashmir government, has envisaged. The State Administrative Council (SAC) which met here Thursday evening under the chairmanship of Governor Satya Pal Malik approved the Master Plan, an official spokesman said Friday. The plan proposes to maximise the contribution of Gulmarg and its surroundings to the state's economy, while preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage, the official said. At the same time, it proposes to provide the best hospitality, excellent value for money and memorable experiences to every visitor and develop Gulmarg as one of the preferred all-weather international tourist destinations. According to the official, the main features of the plan include the development of Tangmarg area in the vicinity of Gulmarg as Satellite-Tourist-Township with flexible set of Development Control Regulations (DCRs) to attract developers for high-end tourism infrastructure. "This concept is aimed at reducing further the footprint of development in Gulmarg which has very limited carrying capacity," the official said. The significant part of Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) especially Gulmarg, Khillanmarg, Botapathri and nearby areas included in the territorial jurisdiction of Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary and Biosphere reserve will not be used for any high built-up infrastructure development, the official said. "Instead such areas have been proposed for leisure-tourism, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism," the official said. Bed capacity of Gulmarg has been increased by extra accommodation in the form of the tourist resort in the south-west of Bowl and hutments and camping sites on the western end of Leopard Valley besides eco-tourism areas. The Master Plan also envisages development of tourist resorts in Tangmarg, Botapathri, Khillanmarg as model ecotourism sites in collaboration with the local communities, wildlife and forest department and development of Drung as heritage village with limited tourist activity. The banning of any kind of compound walling in the area, development of Maahayeen, Qazipur, and Ferozpur as model villages and Baba Reshie area as heritage area with facilities for pilgrim tourism is also expected, the official added. The plan further proposes biodiversity parks of Kashmir Himalayan Flora in Gulmarg; separate entry and exit points to avoid traffic congestions and Pony Management to arrest horse dung posing a serious problem in the resort as most of it is littered creating an unpleasant landscape. The preparations of Master Plan-2032 were initiated pursuant to the orders of the High Court in PIL titled Mohammad Rafiq Zargar versus State and Others, the official said. The preparation was preceded by environmental impact assessment and GIS mapping of the Gulmarg part of the local area. The Draft Master Plan-2032 prepared by the Town Planning Organisation, Kashmir has been extensively examined by the tourism department for the last five years with the High Court closely monitoring its preparation. The plan was also put in public domain for inviting objections and suggestions and the tourism department had constituted a committee to examine the inputs, they said, adding that proposals which were found to be useful were factored in the final Draft Master Plan. The Master Plan does not intend to regularise any violation or construction made in contravention to the permission granted earlier or any construction without valid permission, the official said.

Master Plan to develop Gulmarg as ace tourist destination approved

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies.

The two parties have fielded 33 candidates each belonging to the Jat community for the December 7 polls.

The ruling BJP has fielded 26 Rajputs and the Congress 15 from the community.

Altogether, over 60 candidates from the Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste categories are in the fray.

Besides giving prominence to Brahmin, Vaishya, Other Backward Classes and SC/STs, the opposition Congress has fielded 15 Muslim candidates against only one by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the 200-seat House.

On the 31 seats where both the Congress and the BJP have fielded candidates belonging to the same caste, there is a direct contest between 15 candidates belonging to the Jat community.

Brahmins are pitted against Brahmins on seven seats, Rajputs fight each other on four, and Gurjars and Yadavs on two seats each.

Parties in Rajasthan have always kept the caste factor in mind while distributing tickets, observers said.

For example, for years, the BJP enjoyed the support of the Rajputs. But observers said even a slight swing in loyalties this time can change the outcome, they said.

The Congress, in any case, will benefit if anti-incumbency comes into play, it is felt.

In last assembly polls, the BJP vote share was 46.05 per cent against the 33.7 per cent polled by the Congress.

In the 2008 assembly election, the BJP vote share was 34.27 per cent against the 36.82 per cent of the Congress, according to the Election Commission data.

Among the prominent Jat leaders, Ram Pratap Kasnia of the BJP is pitted against Hanuman Meel of the Congress in Suratgarh, Ram Pratap of BJP against Vinod Chaudhary of the Congress in Hanumangarh and Ram Singh Kaswan of the BJP against Krishna Punia of the Congress in Sadulpur.

Among the Brahmin contestants, BJP's Gopal Joshi has been fielded against BD Kalla of the Congress in Bikaner West and Abhinesh Mehrishi of the BJP against Bhanwarlal of the Congress in Ratangarh.

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies.

Both the BJP and the Congress kept the caste arithmetic in mind while announcing their candidates for the Rajasthan assembly polls, fielding same-caste nominees against each other in at least 31 constituencies. The two parties have fielded 33 candidates each belonging to the Jat community for the December 7 polls. The ruling BJP has fielded 26 Rajputs and the Congress 15 from the community. Altogether, over 60 candidates from the Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste categories are in the fray. Besides giving prominence to Brahmin, Vaishya, Other Backward Classes and SC/STs, the opposition Congress has fielded 15 Muslim candidates against only one by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the 200-seat House. On the 31 seats where both the Congress and the BJP have fielded candidates belonging to the same caste, there is a direct contest between 15 candidates belonging to the Jat community. Brahmins are pitted against Brahmins on seven seats, Rajputs fight each other on four, and Gurjars and Yadavs on two seats each. Parties in Rajasthan have always kept the caste factor in mind while distributing tickets, observers said. For example, for years, the BJP enjoyed the support of the Rajputs. But observers said even a slight swing in loyalties this time can change the outcome, they said. The Congress, in any case, will benefit if anti-incumbency comes into play, it is felt. In last assembly polls, the BJP vote share was 46.05 per cent against the 33.7 per cent polled by the Congress. In the 2008 assembly election, the BJP vote share was 34.27 per cent against the 36.82 per cent of the Congress, according to the Election Commission data. Among the prominent Jat leaders, Ram Pratap Kasnia of the BJP is pitted against Hanuman Meel of the Congress in Suratgarh, Ram Pratap of BJP against Vinod Chaudhary of the Congress in Hanumangarh and Ram Singh Kaswan of the BJP against Krishna Punia of the Congress in Sadulpur. Among the Brahmin contestants, BJP's Gopal Joshi has been fielded against BD Kalla of the Congress in Bikaner West and Abhinesh Mehrishi of the BJP against Bhanwarlal of the Congress in Ratangarh.

Caste major factor in Rajasthan polls

Indian authorities said on Friday they are investigating whether a young American believed to have been killed by an isolated tribe on a remote island, may have had help from more people than initially thought to make his illegal trip.

John Chau, 26, was allegedly killed on November 17 by people of the Sentinelese tribe who inhabit the North Sentinel Island in the Andaman and Nicobar island chain. Chau's family said in a social media post he was a Christian missionary and mountaineer.

It is illegal for people to visit the island and seven people suspected of helping Chau reach it, including fishermen, have been arrested.

The fishermen told police that they saw Chau's body being dragged across a beach and buried in the sand.

Police are now investigating if Chau had help from other people to travel to North Sentinel, said Vijay Singh, senior superintendent of police in Andaman and Nicobar islands, in a statement.

Police plan to investigate "the sequence of events, the sea route followed", and other matters, said Singh.

The Sentinelese, hunter-gatherers armed with primitive spears and bows and arrows, are considered to be the last pre-Neolithic tribe in the world and the most isolated such group.

The tribe, estimated to be only a few dozen in number, have for decades aggressively resisted contact with the outside world.

Anthropologists were briefly in contact with the tribe in the early 1990s, but their effort was abandoned due to fears that contact with the outside world could expose the tribe to pathogens and lead to their extinction.

North Sentinel, 50 km (31 miles) west of Port Blair - the capital of the island cluster - is protected by laws which bar even fishing within a 5-nautical mile radius of the island.

The law also bars tourism or photography of the Sentinelese and certain other tribes in the Andaman islands. Those found guilty of breaking the law face jail of up to three years.

In their social media post, Chau's family called on authorities to release his friends in the Andaman Islands saying they did not blame anyone for his death.

Dependra Pathak, director general of police in the Andaman and Nicobar islands, told Reuters police had to follow the law.

"I understand the emotional concern of the family," he said. "But we'll be handling the entire issue keeping in mind the law."

He said authorities were looking into whether they could retrieve Chau's body.

"We have to respect the utmost sensitivities in this case," he said, adding it was a moral duty to protect and respect the tribe that has lived in isolation for millennia.

Indian authorities said on Friday they are investigating whether a young American believed to have been killed by an isolated tribe on a remote island, may have had help from more people than initially thought to make his illegal trip.

Indian authorities said on Friday they are investigating whether a young American believed to have been killed by an isolated tribe on a remote island, may have had help from more people than initially thought to make his illegal trip. John Chau, 26, was allegedly killed on November 17 by people of the Sentinelese tribe who inhabit the North Sentinel Island in the Andaman and Nicobar island chain. Chau's family said in a social media post he was a Christian missionary and mountaineer. It is illegal for people to visit the island and seven people suspected of helping Chau reach it, including fishermen, have been arrested. The fishermen told police that they saw Chau's body being dragged across a beach and buried in the sand. Police are now investigating if Chau had help from other people to travel to North Sentinel, said Vijay Singh, senior superintendent of police in Andaman and Nicobar islands, in a statement. Police plan to investigate "the sequence of events, the sea route followed", and other matters, said Singh. The Sentinelese, hunter-gatherers armed with primitive spears and bows and arrows, are considered to be the last pre-Neolithic tribe in the world and the most isolated such group. The tribe, estimated to be only a few dozen in number, have for decades aggressively resisted contact with the outside world. Anthropologists were briefly in contact with the tribe in the early 1990s, but their effort was abandoned due to fears that contact with the outside world could expose the tribe to pathogens and lead to their extinction. North Sentinel, 50 km (31 miles) west of Port Blair - the capital of the island cluster - is protected by laws which bar even fishing within a 5-nautical mile radius of the island. The law also bars tourism or photography of the Sentinelese and certain other tribes in the Andaman islands. Those found guilty of breaking the law face jail of up to three years. In their social media post, Chau's family called on authorities to release his friends in the Andaman Islands saying they did not blame anyone for his death. Dependra Pathak, director general of police in the Andaman and Nicobar islands, told Reuters police had to follow the law. "I understand the emotional concern of the family," he said. "But we'll be handling the entire issue keeping in mind the law." He said authorities were looking into whether they could retrieve Chau's body. "We have to respect the utmost sensitivities in this case," he said, adding it was a moral duty to protect and respect the tribe that has lived in isolation for millennia.

Indian police investigate who helped young American killed on remote island

At a time when candidates shower booze and cash on voters in order to swing them in their&nbsp;favour, an&nbsp;independent candidate in Telangana has adopted a unique approach to woo the voters.

The 45-year-old Akula Hanmandloo, who is contesting as an independent candidate for Korutla assembly seat in Telangana, is giving a copy of a resignation letter and a slipper to voters even as he pleads with folded hands and says, ''This is copy of my resignation letter and a slipper. If you elect me I will do any work ( public work ) you wish. In case I don't do it you can send this letter to Telangana Assembly Speaker and along with that you can hit me with this slipper.''

Akula Hanmandloo has real estate business and has some agricultural land in and around Korutla town in Karimnagar district of Telangana.&nbsp;

A father of three children, Hanmandloo says he, like many voters, is vexed with empty and false promises of political leaders who, he says, say a lot before elections.&nbsp;

''Election after election people continue to suffer because the leaders who promise everything before elections are not to be seen or heard till the next elections. I want to set an example. I want to bring in change if I am elected,'' says Hanmandloo while speaking to Zee Media.

For Hanmandloo, this is not his first tryst with elections. Fifteen years back he unsuccessfully contested as corporator in local municipal elections in Korutla. His present campaigning is attracting a lot of attention in Korutla assembly constituency which has little more than two lakh voters. ''We have seen vote for note ( money ). But this is different. He is giving us a slipper and a resignation letter. What we expect from any candidate is honesty and sincerity and zeal to do development,'' opines Eligeti Krishna, a voter and resident of Korutla town.

Along with door to door campaign, Hanmandloo is also using social media to spread the message. He has a dedicated Facebook page wherein one can connect with him on this issue.

Hanmandloo is pitted against Congress' Narsing Rao and Telangana Rashtra Samithi's Vidyasagar Rao -- both heavyweights in the area.&nbsp;

''I dream of Rama Rajya wherein people are happy and prosperous and if I win I will live up to my promise,'' assures Hanmandloo.

The Assembly Elections for 119 seats for Telangana will be held on December 7.

At a time when candidates shower booze and cash on voters in order to swing them in their favour, an independent candidate in Telangana has adopted a unique approach to woo the voters.

At a time when candidates shower booze and cash on voters in order to swing them in their favour, an independent candidate in Telangana has adopted a unique approach to woo the voters. The 45-year-old Akula Hanmandloo, who is contesting as an independent candidate for Korutla assembly seat in Telangana, is giving a copy of a resignation letter and a slipper to voters even as he pleads with folded hands and says, ''This is copy of my resignation letter and a slipper. If you elect me I will do any work ( public work ) you wish. In case I don't do it you can send this letter to Telangana Assembly Speaker and along with that you can hit me with this slipper.'' Akula Hanmandloo has real estate business and has some agricultural land in and around Korutla town in Karimnagar district of Telangana. A father of three children, Hanmandloo says he, like many voters, is vexed with empty and false promises of political leaders who, he says, say a lot before elections. ''Election after election people continue to suffer because the leaders who promise everything before elections are not to be seen or heard till the next elections. I want to set an example. I want to bring in change if I am elected,'' says Hanmandloo while speaking to Zee Media. For Hanmandloo, this is not his first tryst with elections. Fifteen years back he unsuccessfully contested as corporator in local municipal elections in Korutla. His present campaigning is attracting a lot of attention in Korutla assembly constituency which has little more than two lakh voters. ''We have seen vote for note ( money ). But this is different. He is giving us a slipper and a resignation letter. What we expect from any candidate is honesty and sincerity and zeal to do development,'' opines Eligeti Krishna, a voter and resident of Korutla town. Along with door to door campaign, Hanmandloo is also using social media to spread the message. He has a dedicated Facebook page wherein one can connect with him on this issue. Hanmandloo is pitted against Congress' Narsing Rao and Telangana Rashtra Samithi's Vidyasagar Rao -- both heavyweights in the area. ''I dream of Rama Rajya wherein people are happy and prosperous and if I win I will live up to my promise,'' assures Hanmandloo. The Assembly Elections for 119 seats for Telangana will be held on December 7.

Meet the Telangana candidate who seeks votes with slipper and resignation letter

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming&nbsp;Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment.

"Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said.

"Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said.

When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said.

"Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period.

Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country.

The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013.

On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

"Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said.

"If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said.

Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft".

"Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections. Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment. "Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said. "Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said. When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said. "Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period. Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country. The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013. On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said. "If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said. Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft". "Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

No substance in what Modi speaks, says Rahul Gandhi

Under vitriolic attack from caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on its President N Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party is putting up a brave front in the Telangana Assembly polls.

The December seven election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly is seen in some quarters as a "do-or-die" political battle for the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister in the country's youngest state.

Senior TDP politburo member Ravula Chandrasekhar Reddy sees Rao's repeated attacks on Naidu as a "panic reaction".

"On September six (after the Assembly was dissolved), he (Rao) said TDP has a mere 0.2 per cent vote share in Telangana. Now, he (Rao) is devoting 50 per cent of his speech time criticising Naidu and TDP. It shows his panic reaction and frustration," Reddy told PTI.

The Congress, the TDP, the Telananga Jana Samiti (TJS) and the Communist party of India have forged an alliance to take on the ruling TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samiti).

In alliance with the BJP, the TDP had bagged 15 seats with a vote share of 14.7 per cent in the 2014 elections.

In the ongoing election campaign, Rao and TRS leaders have repeatedly chosen to project the TDP as an "anti-Telangana party" and Naidu as the one who had tried to put hurdles in Telangana's development.

If the Congress-led alliance comes to power in Telangana, they have alleged that Naidu would call the shots.

The TDP has seen 13 of its Telangana MLAs deserting the party -- 12 defecting to the TRS and one to the Congress. But Reddy asserted that the party and its cadre are intact in Telangana.

"We are confident of winning the 13 seats that we are contesting now," he said.

As chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, Naidu had strived hard for all-round development of Hyderabad, particularly the information technology sector, Reddy said.

"Sixty-four per cent of Telangana's income is from Hyderabad only. This (pro-development, pro-investment) atmosphere is created by Naidu (during his tenure as CM)," he said.

Under vitriolic attack from caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on its President N Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party is putting up a brave front in the Telangana Assembly polls.

Under vitriolic attack from caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on its President N Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party is putting up a brave front in the Telangana Assembly polls. The December seven election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly is seen in some quarters as a "do-or-die" political battle for the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister in the country's youngest state. Senior TDP politburo member Ravula Chandrasekhar Reddy sees Rao's repeated attacks on Naidu as a "panic reaction". "On September six (after the Assembly was dissolved), he (Rao) said TDP has a mere 0.2 per cent vote share in Telangana. Now, he (Rao) is devoting 50 per cent of his speech time criticising Naidu and TDP. It shows his panic reaction and frustration," Reddy told PTI. The Congress, the TDP, the Telananga Jana Samiti (TJS) and the Communist party of India have forged an alliance to take on the ruling TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samiti). In alliance with the BJP, the TDP had bagged 15 seats with a vote share of 14.7 per cent in the 2014 elections. In the ongoing election campaign, Rao and TRS leaders have repeatedly chosen to project the TDP as an "anti-Telangana party" and Naidu as the one who had tried to put hurdles in Telangana's development. If the Congress-led alliance comes to power in Telangana, they have alleged that Naidu would call the shots. The TDP has seen 13 of its Telangana MLAs deserting the party -- 12 defecting to the TRS and one to the Congress. But Reddy asserted that the party and its cadre are intact in Telangana. "We are confident of winning the 13 seats that we are contesting now," he said. As chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, Naidu had strived hard for all-round development of Hyderabad, particularly the information technology sector, Reddy said. "Sixty-four per cent of Telangana's income is from Hyderabad only. This (pro-development, pro-investment) atmosphere is created by Naidu (during his tenure as CM)," he said.

TDP seeks to take fight to TRS camp in do-or-die poll battle

In fresh strain in bilateral ties, India Friday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-again-stops-indian-officials-from-entering-gurudwara-in-lahore-178872">alleged harassment of Indian High Commission officials</a> in Islamabad and the denial of access to Indian Sikh pilgrims visiting that country.

India also expressed "grave concern" over reports of attempts during the pilgrims' ongoing visit to "incite" communal disharmony and "promote secessionist tendencies" with an aim to undermine India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the External Affairs Ministry said.

"India has today lodged a strong protest with the government of Pakistan that despite having been granted prior travel permission by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, the Consular officials of the High Commission of India in Islamabad were harassed and denied access on November 21 and 22 at Gurudwara Nankana Sahib and Gurudwara Sacha Sauda," the ministry said in a statement.

India's protest came a day after the two countries agreed to develop a corridor on their respective side of the border to link a historic Sikh shrine in Kartarpur in Pakistan. 
There were reports that pro-Khalistani banners were shown to the Indian pilgrims while they were on their way to the two Sikh shrines.

"Pakistan has been called upon to take all measures to not allow its territory to be used for any hostile propaganda and support for secessionist tendencies against India in keeping with the commitments made under the Simla Agreement, 1972 and endorsed in the Lahore Declaration, 1999," the MEA said in a statement.

The Indian pilgrims are visiting Pakistan under a bilateral protocol.&nbsp;

"Pakistan has been reminded that such actions are not in consonance with the stated intentions of Pakistan to facilitate the visits of Indian Sikh pilgrims, especially as we commemorate the 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji," the MEA said.

According to the MEA, the access was denied despite the Pakistan Foreign Ministry granting them prior travel permission.&nbsp;

As a result of the harassment, the officials were compelled to return to Islamabad without performing their diplomatic and consular duties vis-a-vis Indian pilgrims, it added.

Indian officials said this is the third consecutive visit of Indian Sikh pilgrims when Pakistan has prevented the Indian High Commission officials from meeting the Indian nationals on the pretext of security.

The MEA called the denial of access an attempt to deflect attention from Pakistan's violation of international legal instruments and conventions like the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

Pakistan has been reminded that this is in contrast to the treatment meted out to their High Commissioner and the Consular officials in New Delhi who have been provided full access to meet the Pakistani pilgrims who are currently in India on pilgrimage to Kalyar Sharif, the MEA said.

In fresh strain in bilateral ties, India Friday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the alleged harassment of Indian High Commission officials in Islamabad and the denial of access to Indian Sikh pilgrims visiting that country.

In fresh strain in bilateral ties, India Friday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the alleged harassment of Indian High Commission officials in Islamabad and the denial of access to Indian Sikh pilgrims visiting that country. India also expressed "grave concern" over reports of attempts during the pilgrims' ongoing visit to "incite" communal disharmony and "promote secessionist tendencies" with an aim to undermine India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the External Affairs Ministry said. "India has today lodged a strong protest with the government of Pakistan that despite having been granted prior travel permission by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, the Consular officials of the High Commission of India in Islamabad were harassed and denied access on November 21 and 22 at Gurudwara Nankana Sahib and Gurudwara Sacha Sauda," the ministry said in a statement. India's protest came a day after the two countries agreed to develop a corridor on their respective side of the border to link a historic Sikh shrine in Kartarpur in Pakistan. There were reports that pro-Khalistani banners were shown to the Indian pilgrims while they were on their way to the two Sikh shrines. "Pakistan has been called upon to take all measures to not allow its territory to be used for any hostile propaganda and support for secessionist tendencies against India in keeping with the commitments made under the Simla Agreement, 1972 and endorsed in the Lahore Declaration, 1999," the MEA said in a statement. The Indian pilgrims are visiting Pakistan under a bilateral protocol. "Pakistan has been reminded that such actions are not in consonance with the stated intentions of Pakistan to facilitate the visits of Indian Sikh pilgrims, especially as we commemorate the 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji," the MEA said. According to the MEA, the access was denied despite the Pakistan Foreign Ministry granting them prior travel permission. As a result of the harassment, the officials were compelled to return to Islamabad without performing their diplomatic and consular duties vis-a-vis Indian pilgrims, it added. Indian officials said this is the third consecutive visit of Indian Sikh pilgrims when Pakistan has prevented the Indian High Commission officials from meeting the Indian nationals on the pretext of security. The MEA called the denial of access an attempt to deflect attention from Pakistan's violation of international legal instruments and conventions like the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Pakistan has been reminded that this is in contrast to the treatment meted out to their High Commissioner and the Consular officials in New Delhi who have been provided full access to meet the Pakistani pilgrims who are currently in India on pilgrimage to Kalyar Sharif, the MEA said.

India lodges protest with Pakistan over harassment of officials, denial of access to pilgrims

The Election Commission has&nbsp;said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year.

"The Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls must be held on the first occasion before May ... It could be held before parliamentary elections also," Chief Election Commissioner O P Rawat said.

He said as per the Supreme Court, the outer limit for holding fresh polls after dissolution of a house is six months, that is May, 2019.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/governor-rule-in-jk-de-facto-modi-rule-says-congress-as-it-seeks-fresh-polls-soon-178900">Governor rule in J&amp;K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon</a>

At the same time, he made it clear that the election body&nbsp;will decide on the poll dates after "considering all aspects."

He said, the top court's&nbsp;verdict, an outcome of presidential reference, also said polls will have to be held on the first occasion which means even before six months.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721"> I did not act on BJP's behest, says J&amp;K governor Satya Pal Malik after dissolving </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721">assembly</a>

He said the same principle was applied in Telangana where the assembly was dissolved prematurely.

The state g<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-mehbooba-mufti-writes-to-governor-stakes-claim-to-form-government-178644">overnor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly</a> on Wednesday evening after People's Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form a government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress.

They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly.&nbsp;

Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others.

The Election Commission has said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year.

The Election Commission has said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year. "The Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls must be held on the first occasion before May ... It could be held before parliamentary elections also," Chief Election Commissioner O P Rawat said. He said as per the Supreme Court, the outer limit for holding fresh polls after dissolution of a house is six months, that is May, 2019. Also read: Governor rule in J&K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon At the same time, he made it clear that the election body will decide on the poll dates after "considering all aspects." He said, the top court's verdict, an outcome of presidential reference, also said polls will have to be held on the first occasion which means even before six months. Also read: I did not act on BJP's behest, says J&K governor Satya Pal Malik after dissolving assembly He said the same principle was applied in Telangana where the assembly was dissolved prematurely. The state governor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly on Wednesday evening after People's Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form a government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress. They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly. Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others.

J&K polls to be held before May, could be before general elections: CEC Rawat

Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said Thursday a six-member team of the proscribed ULFA(I) militants was behind the killing of five Bengali-speaking persons at Tinsukia district earlier this month.

The DGP's statement came on a day when at least two people were killed and several more injured in a grenade attack by suspected ULFA (Independent) militants in Sibsagar district of upper Assam.

On the night of November 1, a group of assailants called out six villagers of Kherbari. They then took them to the edge of Dhola-Sadiya bridge in the area and opened indiscriminate fire, killing five of them on spot. One of them survived the firing. The needle of suspicion was towards the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) from the very beginning but the organisation denied any role in the killing.

"Preliminary investigations conducted by police and NIA into the killings have already started. We have all the information how the incident took place. We have sufficient technical evidence about a six-member team of the ULFA(I) being behind the Tinsukia firing incident," DGP Saikia told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting.

The Assam police in co-ordination with neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland police is jointly investigating the case for the past three days, he said.

On ULFA(I)'s denial about its involvement, Saikia said, "We have not given any importance to that though ULFA(I) had issued a clarification after the incident."

Saikia said ULFA-I is active in recruiting youths in upper Assam and that was proved with two incidents of abduction of a stone quarry manager and tea garden manager at Jagun and Charaideo, respectively, this week.

A senior Assam Police officer recently said growing public sentiment against the Centre's move to amend the Citizenship Act has given a "fresh lease of life" to the outlawed ULFA, which has recruited eights youths since September.

However, senior Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Wednesday sought to underplay this, saying there was nothing new in youngsters from the state joining the proscribed outfit.&nbsp;

Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said Thursday a six-member team of the proscribed ULFA(I) militants was behind the killing of five Bengali-speaking persons at Tinsukia district earlier this month.

Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said Thursday a six-member team of the proscribed ULFA(I) militants was behind the killing of five Bengali-speaking persons at Tinsukia district earlier this month. The DGP's statement came on a day when at least two people were killed and several more injured in a grenade attack by suspected ULFA (Independent) militants in Sibsagar district of upper Assam. On the night of November 1, a group of assailants called out six villagers of Kherbari. They then took them to the edge of Dhola-Sadiya bridge in the area and opened indiscriminate fire, killing five of them on spot. One of them survived the firing. The needle of suspicion was towards the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) from the very beginning but the organisation denied any role in the killing. "Preliminary investigations conducted by police and NIA into the killings have already started. We have all the information how the incident took place. We have sufficient technical evidence about a six-member team of the ULFA(I) being behind the Tinsukia firing incident," DGP Saikia told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting. The Assam police in co-ordination with neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland police is jointly investigating the case for the past three days, he said. On ULFA(I)'s denial about its involvement, Saikia said, "We have not given any importance to that though ULFA(I) had issued a clarification after the incident." Saikia said ULFA-I is active in recruiting youths in upper Assam and that was proved with two incidents of abduction of a stone quarry manager and tea garden manager at Jagun and Charaideo, respectively, this week. A senior Assam Police officer recently said growing public sentiment against the Centre's move to amend the Citizenship Act has given a "fresh lease of life" to the outlawed ULFA, which has recruited eights youths since September. However, senior Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Wednesday sought to underplay this, saying there was nothing new in youngsters from the state joining the proscribed outfit.

ULFA(I) behind Tinsukia killings, says Assam DGP

Goa Forward Party chief and Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai suggested on Thursday that the ailing Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar wanted to resign, but the BJP high command vetoed it.

"He wanted to give up the CM's post altogether. He had even shown an inclination to give away his portfolios (to other ministers) when he was admitted to a hospital during Ganesh Chaturthi festival," Sardesai said here.

"But then several things happened. BJP high command stepped in....It (to resign or not) is not in his (Parrikar's) hands entirely," Sardesai told reporters.

Parrikar, 62, has been recuperating at his residence here since he was discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi on October 14. He is suffering from a pancreatic ailment.

Asked about independent MLA and Revenue Minister Rohan Khaunte's remark that the&nbsp;administration has become sluggish in Parrikar's absence, Sardesai said, "I have always been saying that CM's ill-health has had some sort of impact, and it is showing."

To a question on another alliance partner Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) filing a petition against two former Congress MLAs who joined the BJP, the minister said it was surprising.

MGP has moved the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court, seeking to disqualify Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte, former Congress MLAs who recently joined the BJP.

"It is a matter between two constituents of the alliance -- BJP and MGP. So we are not concerned with it," Sardesai said.

"As far as MGP is concerned, its decision to go to the court is surprising....I can believe it is a preemptive move, they (MGP) have not lost anything, Congress has lost two MLAs," Sardesai said in a cryptic remark.

Speculation was rife earlier that MGP MLAs might join the BJP which does not have a majority on its own in Goa Assembly. 
BJP spokespersons were not available for comment on Sardesai's remarks.

Goa Forward Party chief and Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai suggested on Thursday that the ailing Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar wanted to resign, but the BJP high command vetoed it.

Goa Forward Party chief and Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai suggested on Thursday that the ailing Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar wanted to resign, but the BJP high command vetoed it. "He wanted to give up the CM's post altogether. He had even shown an inclination to give away his portfolios (to other ministers) when he was admitted to a hospital during Ganesh Chaturthi festival," Sardesai said here. "But then several things happened. BJP high command stepped in....It (to resign or not) is not in his (Parrikar's) hands entirely," Sardesai told reporters. Parrikar, 62, has been recuperating at his residence here since he was discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi on October 14. He is suffering from a pancreatic ailment. Asked about independent MLA and Revenue Minister Rohan Khaunte's remark that the administration has become sluggish in Parrikar's absence, Sardesai said, "I have always been saying that CM's ill-health has had some sort of impact, and it is showing." To a question on another alliance partner Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) filing a petition against two former Congress MLAs who joined the BJP, the minister said it was surprising. MGP has moved the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court, seeking to disqualify Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte, former Congress MLAs who recently joined the BJP. "It is a matter between two constituents of the alliance -- BJP and MGP. So we are not concerned with it," Sardesai said. "As far as MGP is concerned, its decision to go to the court is surprising....I can believe it is a preemptive move, they (MGP) have not lost anything, Congress has lost two MLAs," Sardesai said in a cryptic remark. Speculation was rife earlier that MGP MLAs might join the BJP which does not have a majority on its own in Goa Assembly. BJP spokespersons were not available for comment on Sardesai's remarks.

Manohar Parrikar wanted to quit, BJP high command did not allow: Goa cabinet minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish.&nbsp;

PM Modi was speaking at a campaign rally at Lunglei in poll-bound state Mizoram.

He said, "In the last four years the BJP Government at the Centre has worked for greater recognition and spread of Indian culture and traditions, far and wide. But I feel a deep sense of anguish when I see the leaders of Congress abuse the same traditions."

"You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of northeast. The attire given to me at different places in the northeast, is termed outlandish by them," PM Modi added.

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You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of north east. The attire given to me at different places in north east, is termed outlandish by them. They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram <a href="https://t.co/XDNtVWUz8o">pic.twitter.com/XDNtVWUz8o</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065854775500161027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality."&nbsp;

Addressing the gathering he also said that the country has understood Congress's "divide and rule" policy and that is why now they are confined to few states.

PM Modi further said that his government is focused on connectivity and "Transformation through transportation" is their agenda for Mizoram's development.

"India's development is possible when this region is developed. BJP is dedicated to the development of the northeast. We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway and waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development," said PM Modi.

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India's development is possible when this region is developed.BJP is dedicated to development of north east.We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway&amp;waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram <a href="https://t.co/3E07Sc506y">pic.twitter.com/3E07Sc506y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065857766873579520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28.&nbsp;

Mizoram is the only state in the northeastern region where the Congress is in power.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish. PM Modi was speaking at a campaign rally at Lunglei in poll-bound state Mizoram. He said, "In the last four years the BJP Government at the Centre has worked for greater recognition and spread of Indian culture and traditions, far and wide. But I feel a deep sense of anguish when I see the leaders of Congress abuse the same traditions." "You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of northeast. The attire given to me at different places in the northeast, is termed outlandish by them," PM Modi added. You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of north east. The attire given to me at different places in north east, is termed outlandish by them. They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram pic.twitter.com/XDNtVWUz8o — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × "They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality." Addressing the gathering he also said that the country has understood Congress's "divide and rule" policy and that is why now they are confined to few states. PM Modi further said that his government is focused on connectivity and "Transformation through transportation" is their agenda for Mizoram's development. "India's development is possible when this region is developed. BJP is dedicated to the development of the northeast. We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway and waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development," said PM Modi. India's development is possible when this region is developed.BJP is dedicated to development of north east.We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway&waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram pic.twitter.com/3E07Sc506y — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28. Mizoram is the only state in the northeastern region where the Congress is in power.

Congress leaders insulted traditional attire of northeast, says PM Modi in Mizoram poll rally

A day after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/best-option-in-jk-is-fresh-polls-at-earliest-says-bjp-178700">Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) assembly</a> was dissolved, governor Satya Pal Malik said his decision was made in favour of the state and he was not acting on BJP's behest.

"Nobody&nbsp;gave me a&nbsp;list of MLAs,"&nbsp;the governor said while declaring that he could not allow horse-trading in the assembly.

"Are government's formed through social media? I neither tweet nor see the tweets. I selected yesterday for the decision to dissolve the assembly as it was a holy day, it was Eid," he said&nbsp;on Mehbooba Mufti's letter sent to him in the form of a tweet

"It is the Election Commission's job to decide on the date of the elections,"&nbsp;he said. "I did not act on BJP's behest," he added.

The J&amp;K assembly was abruptly dissolved by the governor after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival National Conference(NC) and the Congress. Another bid to form the government was made by two-member People's Conference.

The dissolution was announced by governor Satyapal Malik in a communique released by Raj Bhavan.

"Why will they go to court? They were demanding this for five months. I want that they go to court, it's their right, they should go," he said after some leaders expressed their willingness to challenge the governor's decision in court.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, National Conference(NC) leader today accused the BJP of being behind the dissolution of J&amp;K assembly which was announced by governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday&nbsp;night.

"J&amp;K has been subjected to a lot of suffering," the former chief minister said, adding that talks were going on for an alliance. "We have interests of the people in mind," he asserted.

Omar said NC and PDP were in talks to form the next government in the state.

"I do not want to be chief minister," Omar told reporters at a press conference in Srinagar. He informed that the NC core group had held a meeting today to take stock of the situation.

Taking a jibe at the governor, Omar said fax machine had become the new political player in J&amp;K. He said the BJP wanted elections in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP said: "The proposed alliance between the Congress and the PDP broke up even before it was formed. They have taken contradictory positions on dissolution. One supports it and the other opposes it."

"The best option in such a scenario is to go in for a fresh election at the earliest. This assembly cannot produce a stable government," it added.

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) assembly was dissolved, governor Satya Pal Malik said his decision was made in favour of the state and he was not acting on BJP's behest.

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) assembly was dissolved, governor Satya Pal Malik said his decision was made in favour of the state and he was not acting on BJP's behest. "Nobody gave me a list of MLAs," the governor said while declaring that he could not allow horse-trading in the assembly. "Are government's formed through social media? I neither tweet nor see the tweets. I selected yesterday for the decision to dissolve the assembly as it was a holy day, it was Eid," he said on Mehbooba Mufti's letter sent to him in the form of a tweet "It is the Election Commission's job to decide on the date of the elections," he said. "I did not act on BJP's behest," he added. The J&K assembly was abruptly dissolved by the governor after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival National Conference(NC) and the Congress. Another bid to form the government was made by two-member People's Conference. The dissolution was announced by governor Satyapal Malik in a communique released by Raj Bhavan. "Why will they go to court? They were demanding this for five months. I want that they go to court, it's their right, they should go," he said after some leaders expressed their willingness to challenge the governor's decision in court. Meanwhile, National Conference(NC) leader today accused the BJP of being behind the dissolution of J&K assembly which was announced by governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday night. "J&K has been subjected to a lot of suffering," the former chief minister said, adding that talks were going on for an alliance. "We have interests of the people in mind," he asserted. Omar said NC and PDP were in talks to form the next government in the state. "I do not want to be chief minister," Omar told reporters at a press conference in Srinagar. He informed that the NC core group had held a meeting today to take stock of the situation. Taking a jibe at the governor, Omar said fax machine had become the new political player in J&K. He said the BJP wanted elections in the state. The BJP said: "The proposed alliance between the Congress and the PDP broke up even before it was formed. They have taken contradictory positions on dissolution. One supports it and the other opposes it." "The best option in such a scenario is to go in for a fresh election at the earliest. This assembly cannot produce a stable government," it added.

I did not act on BJP's behest, says J&K governor Satya Pal Malik after dissolving assembly

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney. Kovind, the first-ever Indian head of state to visit Australia, arrived in Sydney on Wednesday on the second leg of his two-nation trip.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that during the state visit of President Kovind to Australia, five agreements were exchanged in the presence of Marise Payne, Foreign Minister of Australia and Anantkumar Hegde, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, by High Commissioners of both countries.

The first agreement was for cooperation in the area of disability and to deliver services to the differently-abled. The second one was between Invest India and Austrade to facilitate bilateral investment. The third agreement was signed between the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Ranchi, and the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation, Canberra, to foster scientific collaboration and innovation.

The fourth one between the Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, and the University of Western Australia, Perth, for cooperation in agricultural research and education while the last one was between the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, and the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane for a joint PhD agreement.

Following the meeting with President Kovind, Prime Minister Morrison announced the release of Australia’s response to the India Economic Strategy, a blueprint to transform the economic engagement. “This report provides a roadmap for our economic future with India,” Morrison said.

India is the world’s fastest-growing major economy and offers more opportunity for Australian business over the next 20 years than any other single market, he said. The Australian government said it endorsed the report and provides in-principle support to its 20 priority recommendations. “Our work will focus on greater economic engagement targeting 10 Indian states and 10 key sectors while providing practical support for Australian businesses entering or expanding operations in India,” Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said.

Australia also pinpointed the initial implementation plan with key actions for next one year which will include agreements forged between Austrade and Invest India, the establishment of an Australia-India Food Partnership, opening up new opportunities for agri-tech and service companies and Australia-India Strategic Research Fund grants of up to Australian dollar 500,000.

The fund is designed to help researchers solve the challenges shared by both nations, including energy storage, marine science and plant genomics. Other actions include the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India’s mineral-rich northeastern states, supported by the new Consulate-General in Kolkata, engagement with airlines to increase direct flights through the Australia-India air services agreement.

Ministers across education, agribusiness, resources and tourism will oversee the progress of the government’s response and ongoing implementation of the India Economic Strategy. Morrison along with the ministers for trade and resources will join President Kovind at the launch of the Australian chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry – India Business Forum, which will serve as a platform for networking and policy advocacy for Indian businesses in Australia.

“I look forward to continuing discussing the opportunities presented in the India Economic Strategy with President Kovind, and how we can continue to work together to develop enhanced economic ties,” Morrison said. “Today’s steps are only the first on a long journey that will see Australia and India grow together,” he said. 
Kovind, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Governor General Peter Cosgrove in Sydney, will be visiting Melbourne on Friday to address university students.

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney.

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney. Kovind, the first-ever Indian head of state to visit Australia, arrived in Sydney on Wednesday on the second leg of his two-nation trip. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that during the state visit of President Kovind to Australia, five agreements were exchanged in the presence of Marise Payne, Foreign Minister of Australia and Anantkumar Hegde, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, by High Commissioners of both countries. The first agreement was for cooperation in the area of disability and to deliver services to the differently-abled. The second one was between Invest India and Austrade to facilitate bilateral investment. The third agreement was signed between the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Ranchi, and the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation, Canberra, to foster scientific collaboration and innovation. The fourth one between the Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, and the University of Western Australia, Perth, for cooperation in agricultural research and education while the last one was between the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, and the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane for a joint PhD agreement. Following the meeting with President Kovind, Prime Minister Morrison announced the release of Australia’s response to the India Economic Strategy, a blueprint to transform the economic engagement. “This report provides a roadmap for our economic future with India,” Morrison said. India is the world’s fastest-growing major economy and offers more opportunity for Australian business over the next 20 years than any other single market, he said. The Australian government said it endorsed the report and provides in-principle support to its 20 priority recommendations. “Our work will focus on greater economic engagement targeting 10 Indian states and 10 key sectors while providing practical support for Australian businesses entering or expanding operations in India,” Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said. Australia also pinpointed the initial implementation plan with key actions for next one year which will include agreements forged between Austrade and Invest India, the establishment of an Australia-India Food Partnership, opening up new opportunities for agri-tech and service companies and Australia-India Strategic Research Fund grants of up to Australian dollar 500,000. The fund is designed to help researchers solve the challenges shared by both nations, including energy storage, marine science and plant genomics. Other actions include the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India’s mineral-rich northeastern states, supported by the new Consulate-General in Kolkata, engagement with airlines to increase direct flights through the Australia-India air services agreement. Ministers across education, agribusiness, resources and tourism will oversee the progress of the government’s response and ongoing implementation of the India Economic Strategy. Morrison along with the ministers for trade and resources will join President Kovind at the launch of the Australian chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry – India Business Forum, which will serve as a platform for networking and policy advocacy for Indian businesses in Australia. “I look forward to continuing discussing the opportunities presented in the India Economic Strategy with President Kovind, and how we can continue to work together to develop enhanced economic ties,” Morrison said. “Today’s steps are only the first on a long journey that will see Australia and India grow together,” he said. Kovind, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Governor General Peter Cosgrove in Sydney, will be visiting Melbourne on Friday to address university students.

India, Australia ink 5 pacts as President Ram Nath Kovind meets PM Scott Morrison

The Supreme Court on Wednesday closed contempt proceedings against Delhi BJP chief and MP Manoj Tiwari for breaking the civic agency’s seal on premises here in September even as it deprecated his action of taking law into his own hands.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur slammed Tiwari, saying the court was “extremely pained” due to his conduct as he is an elected representative and should have behaved responsibly.&nbsp;

The bench said Tiwari levelled frivolous allegations against the court-mandated committee, which shows how “low he can stoop”.&nbsp;

The apex court also said that “misplaced political propaganda has no place” and “such practices should be deprecated”.

The apex court had on September 19 issued contempt notice against Tiwari, an MP from the north-east Delhi constituency, after taking note of a report filed by the monitoring committee which had alleged that the BJP leader had broken the seal of the premises.&nbsp;

An FIR was also lodged against Tiwari by the EDMC for allegedly breaking the seal of the premises in Gokalpuri area in north-east Delhi on September 16.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday closed contempt proceedings against Delhi BJP chief and MP Manoj Tiwari for breaking the civic agency’s seal on premises here in September even as it deprecated his action of taking law into his own hands.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday closed contempt proceedings against Delhi BJP chief and MP Manoj Tiwari for breaking the civic agency’s seal on premises here in September even as it deprecated his action of taking law into his own hands. A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur slammed Tiwari, saying the court was “extremely pained” due to his conduct as he is an elected representative and should have behaved responsibly. The bench said Tiwari levelled frivolous allegations against the court-mandated committee, which shows how “low he can stoop”. The apex court also said that “misplaced political propaganda has no place” and “such practices should be deprecated”. The apex court had on September 19 issued contempt notice against Tiwari, an MP from the north-east Delhi constituency, after taking note of a report filed by the monitoring committee which had alleged that the BJP leader had broken the seal of the premises. An FIR was also lodged against Tiwari by the EDMC for allegedly breaking the seal of the premises in Gokalpuri area in north-east Delhi on September 16.

Delhi sealing: Supreme Court closes contempt proceedings against BJP chief Manoj Tiwari

"Is there a parallel system running in jails?," the Supreme Court asked Thursday while referring to media reports that LED TV, sofa and other prohibited items were found in a Tihar jail cell where Unitech MD Sanjay Chandra and his brother Ajay have been lodged.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur asked the Centre as to what action has been taken in the matter.&nbsp;

It said a report by Additional Sessions Judge, who carried out an inspection in the jail on September 4 following complaints from inmates that the Chandra brothers and others were enjoying "luxurious lifestyle", was already available.

"Report of a judge says that Unitech officials are enjoying facilities in Tihar. Is there a parallel system running in jails? Do they have special rights in jails? What have you done about it?," the bench, also comprising justice Deepak Gupta, asked the Centre's counsel.

"These persons are enjoying TV. God knows what all they are enjoying. They are sitting on sofas," the bench observed.

Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aman Lekhi, appearing for the Centre, said that action must be taken in such cases and such instances have to be "tackled seriously".

When the ASG said the top court was dealing with the issue related to a speedy trial for undertrial prisoners, the bench observed, "We are dealing with something which is shocking".

"What is your government planning to do?," the bench asked Lekhi, who said he would get back to the court on this issue.

The court also flagged the issue raised in recent media reports about the use of mobile phones inside jails in several states, including Bihar.

The issue cropped up in the court when it was hearing a matter related to deficiencies in jails as highlighted by two apex court judges (one of them has retired) during their visit to Faridabad jail and an observation home in June this year.

Chandra brothers are presently lodged in Tihar jail for allegedly cheating home buyers.

The Additional Sessions Judge, who had carried out the inspection in Tihar jail, had said in his report submitted to the Delhi High Court that the circumstances indicated "corruption" and "grave misuse of power" on the part of Director General (DG) Prisons and Tihar Jail officials.

The judge has recommended that an FIR be lodged against DG Prisons and officials of Tihar Jail as such activities also pose an "extra burden on the public exchequer".

He had said in his report that apart from household amenities, including mattresses, mustard oil, foot-mats and stools, in their cell, the Chandra brothers also enjoyed a separate "office" room having a computer with internet, a printer as well as eatables and mineral water.

The high court has taken suo motu cognisance of the report and the letter written by the inmates and turned it into a public interest litigation.

A division bench of the high court has also issued notices to the Delhi government, Director General (DG) Prisons and senior officials of Tihar Jail seeking their response in the matter by February 1 next year.

The inmates in their letter to the court had claimed that while those arrested for financial crimes, like the Chandra brothers, were "enjoying an extra luxurious life in Tihar Jail" with a "separate VIP ward" for them, other prisoners were allegedly not getting sufficient food, drinking water, fruits and other necessities, including medical treatment.&nbsp;

"Is there a parallel system running in jails?," the Supreme Court asked Thursday while referring to media reports that LED TV, sofa and other prohibited items were found in a Tihar jail cell where Unitech MD Sanjay Chandra and his brother Ajay have been lodged.

"Is there a parallel system running in jails?," the Supreme Court asked Thursday while referring to media reports that LED TV, sofa and other prohibited items were found in a Tihar jail cell where Unitech MD Sanjay Chandra and his brother Ajay have been lodged. A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur asked the Centre as to what action has been taken in the matter. It said a report by Additional Sessions Judge, who carried out an inspection in the jail on September 4 following complaints from inmates that the Chandra brothers and others were enjoying "luxurious lifestyle", was already available. "Report of a judge says that Unitech officials are enjoying facilities in Tihar. Is there a parallel system running in jails? Do they have special rights in jails? What have you done about it?," the bench, also comprising justice Deepak Gupta, asked the Centre's counsel. "These persons are enjoying TV. God knows what all they are enjoying. They are sitting on sofas," the bench observed. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aman Lekhi, appearing for the Centre, said that action must be taken in such cases and such instances have to be "tackled seriously". When the ASG said the top court was dealing with the issue related to a speedy trial for undertrial prisoners, the bench observed, "We are dealing with something which is shocking". "What is your government planning to do?," the bench asked Lekhi, who said he would get back to the court on this issue. The court also flagged the issue raised in recent media reports about the use of mobile phones inside jails in several states, including Bihar. The issue cropped up in the court when it was hearing a matter related to deficiencies in jails as highlighted by two apex court judges (one of them has retired) during their visit to Faridabad jail and an observation home in June this year. Chandra brothers are presently lodged in Tihar jail for allegedly cheating home buyers. The Additional Sessions Judge, who had carried out the inspection in Tihar jail, had said in his report submitted to the Delhi High Court that the circumstances indicated "corruption" and "grave misuse of power" on the part of Director General (DG) Prisons and Tihar Jail officials. The judge has recommended that an FIR be lodged against DG Prisons and officials of Tihar Jail as such activities also pose an "extra burden on the public exchequer". He had said in his report that apart from household amenities, including mattresses, mustard oil, foot-mats and stools, in their cell, the Chandra brothers also enjoyed a separate "office" room having a computer with internet, a printer as well as eatables and mineral water. The high court has taken suo motu cognisance of the report and the letter written by the inmates and turned it into a public interest litigation. A division bench of the high court has also issued notices to the Delhi government, Director General (DG) Prisons and senior officials of Tihar Jail seeking their response in the matter by February 1 next year. The inmates in their letter to the court had claimed that while those arrested for financial crimes, like the Chandra brothers, were "enjoying an extra luxurious life in Tihar Jail" with a "separate VIP ward" for them, other prisoners were allegedly not getting sufficient food, drinking water, fruits and other necessities, including medical treatment.

'Is parallel system running in jails?' SC frowns over special treatment to Unitech MD, his brother  

The BJP Wednesday said the best option in Jammu and Kashmir is to have fresh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-mehbooba-mufti-writes-to-governor-stakes-claim-to-form-government-178644">assembly polls</a> at the earliest as it slammed the proposed<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/governors-decision-to-dissolve-assembly-unconstitutional-mehbooba-should-move-court-saifuddin-soz-178651"> alliance of opposition </a>parties as a "combination of terror-friendly parties".

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said on Twitter, soon after the state governor dissolved the assembly amid claims by rival formations on forming a government, that the border state cannot afford horse-trading and instability keeping its security scenario in mind.

"The proposed alliance between the Congress and the PDP broke up even before it was formed. They have taken contradictory positions on dissolution. One supports it and the other opposes it," the BJP said.

"The best option in such a scenario is to go in for a fresh election at the earliest. This assembly cannot produce a stable government," it added. Jammu and Kashmir needs a firm administration to deal with terrorism and not a combination of terror-friendly parties, it added.

The Jammu and Kashmir assembly was abruptly dissolved by the Governor Wednesday night hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival National Conference and the Congress followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties.

The dissolution was announced by Governor Satyapal Malik in a communique released by the Raj Bhavan. In Jammu, the BJP's state unit chief Ravinder Raina said, "We welcome the decision of the governor to dissolve legislative assembly. We welcome it."

The bid by the PDP, NC and the Congress "was a conspiracy against the people of Jammu and Ladakh (regions). It was conspiracy against nationalist people and also against the country at the behest of some forces."

"We not only welcome the decision but thank the governor for foiling the conspiracy hatched by these anti-national and anti-country forces," he added.

Questioning the letter written by PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti staking claim to form a government, Raina said it was her own MLA Raza Ansari who challenged her by saying that he has 16 PDP MLAs with him supporting Sajad Lone of the People's Conference.

The BJP Wednesday said the best option in Jammu and Kashmir is to have fresh assembly polls at the earliest as it slammed the proposed alliance of opposition parties as a "combination of terror-friendly parties".

The BJP Wednesday said the best option in Jammu and Kashmir is to have fresh assembly polls at the earliest as it slammed the proposed alliance of opposition parties as a "combination of terror-friendly parties". The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said on Twitter, soon after the state governor dissolved the assembly amid claims by rival formations on forming a government, that the border state cannot afford horse-trading and instability keeping its security scenario in mind. "The proposed alliance between the Congress and the PDP broke up even before it was formed. They have taken contradictory positions on dissolution. One supports it and the other opposes it," the BJP said. "The best option in such a scenario is to go in for a fresh election at the earliest. This assembly cannot produce a stable government," it added. Jammu and Kashmir needs a firm administration to deal with terrorism and not a combination of terror-friendly parties, it added. The Jammu and Kashmir assembly was abruptly dissolved by the Governor Wednesday night hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival National Conference and the Congress followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties. The dissolution was announced by Governor Satyapal Malik in a communique released by the Raj Bhavan. In Jammu, the BJP's state unit chief Ravinder Raina said, "We welcome the decision of the governor to dissolve legislative assembly. We welcome it." The bid by the PDP, NC and the Congress "was a conspiracy against the people of Jammu and Ladakh (regions). It was conspiracy against nationalist people and also against the country at the behest of some forces." "We not only welcome the decision but thank the governor for foiling the conspiracy hatched by these anti-national and anti-country forces," he added. Questioning the letter written by PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti staking claim to form a government, Raina said it was her own MLA Raza Ansari who challenged her by saying that he has 16 PDP MLAs with him supporting Sajad Lone of the People's Conference.

This assembly cannot produce a stable government, says BJP amid J&K crisis

An American missionary killed in a hail of arrows by an island tribe untouched by modern civilisation was bent on converting them to Christianity, it emerged Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-pays-tribute-to-american-john-allen-chau-who-was-christian-missionary-wilderness-emt-killed-by-sentinelese-tribe-in-andaman-island-178684">John Allen Chau</a>, 27, was attacked last week as he illegally set foot on the remote North Sentinel Island in the Indian Ocean, after paddling his kayak towards the shore carrying fish and a football as gifts, according to a journal quoted by different media.

He was crying: "My name is John. I love you and Jesus loves you... Here is some fish!"

Tribespeople fired arrows at him, one of then piercing his Bible, and he returned to a fishermen's boat and spent the night writing about his experiences before going back to the island the next day.

He never returned.

North Sentinel in the Bay of Bengal is home to the Sentinelese people, believed to number only around 150. To protect their way of life, foreigners and Indians are banned from going within five kilometres (three miles) of the island.

The tribe is known to be hostile to outsiders, having reportedly killed two fishermen whose boat drifted onto the island in 2006, and to have thrown spears at a helicopter checking for damage after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

Chau called himself an "outbound collective explorer" and "snakebite survivor" on his purported Instagram account.

Authorities in the Indian Andaman Islands, of which North Sentinel is one, say that Chau, paid local fishermen to take him off the shore so that he could paddle the rest of the way himself.

"You guys might think I'm crazy in all this but I think it's worthwhile to declare Jesus to these people," the reports quoted a letter to his parents as saying.

"Please do not be angry at them or at God if I get killed," he said.&nbsp;

"I can't wait to see them around the throne of God worshipping in their own language as Revelations 7:9-10 states," he wrote, referring to the apocalyptic final book of the Bible's New Testament.

"God, I don't want to die."

Fishermen saw the tribe burying his body on the beach the following day, a fellow missionary wrote in an email to his mother, the Washington Post reported.

"I believe he is still alive," Lynda Adams-Chau said in a short email to the US daily. Asked why, she replied: "My prayers."

'Highly sensitive'

Indian police have consulted field experts including anthropologists, and tribal welfare and forest officers to help them try and retrieve Chau's body.

"We have to take care that we must not disturb them or their habitat by any means. It is a highly sensitive zone and it will take some time," Dependra Pathak, local chief of police, told AFP.

He said that a helicopter and then a ship were sent to the area to identify where the incident took place, and that they were holding talks with experts on how best to handle the delicate situation.

"We maintained a distance from the island and have not yet been able to spot the body. It may take some more days and... (reconnaissance) of the area," Pathak said.

Since the Indian authorities keep away from the island, it was unclear whether Chau's killing will have legal repercussions.

Indian police said a murder case had been registered against "unknown" tribespeople and that the fishermen who allegedly helped Chau get to the island were arrested.

London-based Survival International, which defends tribal rights, said that the "tragedy" of the American's death "should never have been allowed to happen".

"The Indian authorities should have been enforcing the protection of the Sentinelese and their island for the safety of both the tribe and outsiders," it said.

An American missionary killed in a hail of arrows by an island tribe untouched by modern civilisation was bent on converting them to Christianity, it emerged Thursday.

An American missionary killed in a hail of arrows by an island tribe untouched by modern civilisation was bent on converting them to Christianity, it emerged Thursday. John Allen Chau, 27, was attacked last week as he illegally set foot on the remote North Sentinel Island in the Indian Ocean, after paddling his kayak towards the shore carrying fish and a football as gifts, according to a journal quoted by different media. He was crying: "My name is John. I love you and Jesus loves you... Here is some fish!" Tribespeople fired arrows at him, one of then piercing his Bible, and he returned to a fishermen's boat and spent the night writing about his experiences before going back to the island the next day. He never returned. North Sentinel in the Bay of Bengal is home to the Sentinelese people, believed to number only around 150. To protect their way of life, foreigners and Indians are banned from going within five kilometres (three miles) of the island. The tribe is known to be hostile to outsiders, having reportedly killed two fishermen whose boat drifted onto the island in 2006, and to have thrown spears at a helicopter checking for damage after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Chau called himself an "outbound collective explorer" and "snakebite survivor" on his purported Instagram account. Authorities in the Indian Andaman Islands, of which North Sentinel is one, say that Chau, paid local fishermen to take him off the shore so that he could paddle the rest of the way himself. "You guys might think I'm crazy in all this but I think it's worthwhile to declare Jesus to these people," the reports quoted a letter to his parents as saying. "Please do not be angry at them or at God if I get killed," he said. "I can't wait to see them around the throne of God worshipping in their own language as Revelations 7:9-10 states," he wrote, referring to the apocalyptic final book of the Bible's New Testament. "God, I don't want to die." Fishermen saw the tribe burying his body on the beach the following day, a fellow missionary wrote in an email to his mother, the Washington Post reported. "I believe he is still alive," Lynda Adams-Chau said in a short email to the US daily. Asked why, she replied: "My prayers." 'Highly sensitive' Indian police have consulted field experts including anthropologists, and tribal welfare and forest officers to help them try and retrieve Chau's body. "We have to take care that we must not disturb them or their habitat by any means. It is a highly sensitive zone and it will take some time," Dependra Pathak, local chief of police, told AFP. He said that a helicopter and then a ship were sent to the area to identify where the incident took place, and that they were holding talks with experts on how best to handle the delicate situation. "We maintained a distance from the island and have not yet been able to spot the body. It may take some more days and... (reconnaissance) of the area," Pathak said. Since the Indian authorities keep away from the island, it was unclear whether Chau's killing will have legal repercussions. Indian police said a murder case had been registered against "unknown" tribespeople and that the fishermen who allegedly helped Chau get to the island were arrested. London-based Survival International, which defends tribal rights, said that the "tragedy" of the American's death "should never have been allowed to happen". "The Indian authorities should have been enforcing the protection of the Sentinelese and their island for the safety of both the tribe and outsiders," it said.

Dead American told island tribe: 'Jesus loves you'

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