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Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds."

He was interacting with students of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Hyderabad.

The Vice President said the concept of examinations should be based on measuring the child's capacity simply to question the things around him or her.

Naidu urged the young students to never let their marks define or restrict them in any way.

"You are much more than the numbers on your report card," he told the students.

Along with physical fitness, schools should also encourage other extracurricular activities, an official release quoted the Vice President as saying.

"The syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn 50per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds," he said.

The Vice President said Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has played a pivotal role in the education scenario of the country since its inception in 1938.

Mohammad Mahmood Ali, caretaker Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana and other dignitaries were present on the occasion, the release said. PTI&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds." He was interacting with students of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Hyderabad. The Vice President said the concept of examinations should be based on measuring the child's capacity simply to question the things around him or her. Naidu urged the young students to never let their marks define or restrict them in any way. "You are much more than the numbers on your report card," he told the students. Along with physical fitness, schools should also encourage other extracurricular activities, an official release quoted the Vice President as saying. "The syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn 50per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds," he said. The Vice President said Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has played a pivotal role in the education scenario of the country since its inception in 1938. Mohammad Mahmood Ali, caretaker Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana and other dignitaries were present on the occasion, the release said. PTI

Syllabi for school children should be halved; Venkaiah Naidu

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC.

Taking to Twitter and Facebook, he also used a hashtag “TravelAgentModi” to target Modi.

“The prime minister should say in an RTI that I will take those along with me, whom the police will take, if I don’t,” he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC. Taking to Twitter and Facebook, he also used a hashtag “TravelAgentModi” to target Modi. “The prime minister should say in an RTI that I will take those along with me, whom the police will take, if I don’t,” he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Rahul Gandhi mocks PM Modi over people accompanying him on foreign tours

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.&nbsp;

The allegations of corruption were levelled before Asthana was made Special Director of the CBI. Verma had at the time written to the Central Vigilance Commission, saying the bureau was investigating Asthana.&nbsp;

Asthana later wrote to the Cabinet Secretary and the CVC alleging that Verma was guilty of corruption.&nbsp;

A little later the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana.&nbsp;

The government stepped in on Wednesday, sending both Verma and Asthana on leave. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-action-intended-to-restore-credibility-of-cbi-arun-jaitley-on-sending-cbi-directors-on-leave-173155">it was necessary to do so</a> to maintain the credibility of the country's premier investigative agency.&nbsp;

In its statement on Wednesday, the government said the CVC, on receipt of a complaint on August 24, 2018 containing various allegations against senior functionaries of the CBI, had served three notices under Section 11 of the CVC Act, 2003 on September 11 on the CBI director to produce files and documents before the commission on September 14.&nbsp;

Various opportunities were given to produce such records and after several adjournments, the CBI assured the commission on September 24 of furnishing them within three weeks.&nbsp;

"Despite repeated assurances and reminders, the Director, CBI, failed to furnish the records/files before the commission. The CVC has observed that Director, CBI, has not been cooperating in making available records/files sought by the commission relating to serious allegations," the statement read.

The CVC has also observed that the CBI director has been non-cooperative, non-compliant with the requirements/directions and has created willful obstructions in the functioning of the commission which is a constitutional body.&nbsp;

Asthana is thought of as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Asthana handled the Godhra train-burning case which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002, and the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case in which Shah was at one time accused.

&nbsp;(With inputs from PTI)

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana. The allegations of corruption were levelled before Asthana was made Special Director of the CBI. Verma had at the time written to the Central Vigilance Commission, saying the bureau was investigating Asthana. Asthana later wrote to the Cabinet Secretary and the CVC alleging that Verma was guilty of corruption. A little later the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana. The government stepped in on Wednesday, sending both Verma and Asthana on leave. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said it was necessary to do so to maintain the credibility of the country's premier investigative agency. In its statement on Wednesday, the government said the CVC, on receipt of a complaint on August 24, 2018 containing various allegations against senior functionaries of the CBI, had served three notices under Section 11 of the CVC Act, 2003 on September 11 on the CBI director to produce files and documents before the commission on September 14. Various opportunities were given to produce such records and after several adjournments, the CBI assured the commission on September 24 of furnishing them within three weeks. "Despite repeated assurances and reminders, the Director, CBI, failed to furnish the records/files before the commission. The CVC has observed that Director, CBI, has not been cooperating in making available records/files sought by the commission relating to serious allegations," the statement read. The CVC has also observed that the CBI director has been non-cooperative, non-compliant with the requirements/directions and has created willful obstructions in the functioning of the commission which is a constitutional body. Asthana is thought of as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah. Asthana handled the Godhra train-burning case which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002, and the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case in which Shah was at one time accused. (With inputs from PTI)

Alok Verma did not back up allegations against Rakesh Asthana, says government

While the Supreme Court order allowing sale of firecrackers, though with caveats, this Diwali came as a breather to businessmen, who had to shut shop after the ban last year, some remain concerned if the sale over the next 15 days would be profitable. Sitting in her thinly crowded store in Sadar Bazar, Himani Srivastava of Royal Fireworks told PTI the sales so far have been low, perhaps because many potential buyers would have anticipated the blanket ban would continue this year too.

“Although there is no ban this year, we are worried as we don’t know what to do with our old stock now, as these wouldn’t be up to the regulations (to be able to follow the court-mandated caveats). Diwali is still 15 days away but we can’t get new supplies by then. Let’s see what happens,” she said.

The Supreme Court order permitted “green” firecrackers and fixed a two-hour time period, from 8pm to 10pm, for bursting them on Diwali and other festivals. The permissible limit of sound and smoke of crackers will be approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), the court said.

Despite a number of conditions prescribed by the Court, Satish Manocha of SM Trading Company in Model Basti is hopeful for a better season as “at least there is no ban this year”.”We are relieved, as last year they had completely banned the sale. Now our aim is to clear our stock that couldn’t be sold last Diwali. We will obviously run the business as the Supreme Court has directed, we are yet to receive clear instruction so everything will be decided after that,” Manocha, who has been in the fireworks business for last 20 years, said.

Worried about a probable repetition of the ban, Abhishek Sehgal of GSP Fireworks in Ramnagar also did not order a fresh stock this year and is relying on last year’s. Having faced a “normal sale” so far, they expect it to get better near Diwali. “We hope people will follow the Court’s instructions and the sale would get better. It is also a relief that no temporary licences has been issued this year, otherwise small seasonal shops take away our business,” Sehgal said.

He added that now that there is a clarity about the sale, they will order new items according to demand. While Sehgals are hopeful for a better season, especially given the non-issuance of temporary licences, Manocha, who is primarily focused on wholesale, feels let down as there wouldn’t be many large purchases. “The business so far is not very good. Dussehra went well, but without temporary licensees we are not hoping for a great sale during Diwali,” he said.

While the Supreme Court order allowing sale of firecrackers, though with caveats, this Diwali came as a breather to businessmen, who had to shut shop after the ban last year, some remain concerned if the sale over the next 15 days would be profitable.

While the Supreme Court order allowing sale of firecrackers, though with caveats, this Diwali came as a breather to businessmen, who had to shut shop after the ban last year, some remain concerned if the sale over the next 15 days would be profitable. Sitting in her thinly crowded store in Sadar Bazar, Himani Srivastava of Royal Fireworks told PTI the sales so far have been low, perhaps because many potential buyers would have anticipated the blanket ban would continue this year too. “Although there is no ban this year, we are worried as we don’t know what to do with our old stock now, as these wouldn’t be up to the regulations (to be able to follow the court-mandated caveats). Diwali is still 15 days away but we can’t get new supplies by then. Let’s see what happens,” she said. The Supreme Court order permitted “green” firecrackers and fixed a two-hour time period, from 8pm to 10pm, for bursting them on Diwali and other festivals. The permissible limit of sound and smoke of crackers will be approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), the court said. Despite a number of conditions prescribed by the Court, Satish Manocha of SM Trading Company in Model Basti is hopeful for a better season as “at least there is no ban this year”.”We are relieved, as last year they had completely banned the sale. Now our aim is to clear our stock that couldn’t be sold last Diwali. We will obviously run the business as the Supreme Court has directed, we are yet to receive clear instruction so everything will be decided after that,” Manocha, who has been in the fireworks business for last 20 years, said. Worried about a probable repetition of the ban, Abhishek Sehgal of GSP Fireworks in Ramnagar also did not order a fresh stock this year and is relying on last year’s. Having faced a “normal sale” so far, they expect it to get better near Diwali. “We hope people will follow the Court’s instructions and the sale would get better. It is also a relief that no temporary licences has been issued this year, otherwise small seasonal shops take away our business,” Sehgal said. He added that now that there is a clarity about the sale, they will order new items according to demand. While Sehgals are hopeful for a better season, especially given the non-issuance of temporary licences, Manocha, who is primarily focused on wholesale, feels let down as there wouldn’t be many large purchases. “The business so far is not very good. Dussehra went well, but without temporary licensees we are not hoping for a great sale during Diwali,” he said.

Some traders concerned, others hopeful over Supreme Court verdict on firecracker sale

Despite its constant criticism of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena will have to ally with the BJP for the 2019 polls over the issue of Hindutva, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Tuesday. He also strongly favoured construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. He said those with the even basic understanding of politics know the BJP and the Sena would have to fight together to win elections.

The BJP chief minister was speaking at the “Mumbai Manthan” conclave organised by Hindi news channel Aaj Tak. Earlier this year, Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray had announced his party would go it alone in all future elections. Though the Sena is a BJP ally, it often criticises the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra over their policies and decisions.

“Uddhav ji keeps talking about Hindutva. In that case, there are just two parties (the BJP and the Sena) working for Hindutva. Therefore, they have to ally with us for Hindutva,” Fadnavis said. Responding to a query on Ram temple, he said, “Devendra Fadnavis is one of the 125 crore Indians who wants to see a grand Ram temple being built,”.

The BJP wants to let the construction happen democratically and as per the Supreme Court’s directive, he added. Fadnavis said the Supreme Court has validated the state government’s stand on the arrest of five Left-wing activists for their alleged links with Maoists. He, however, conceded the police department erred in holding a press conference over the issue.

After the arrest of activists in August-end, the Bombay High Court had raised questions over the Maharashtra police’s media briefing on its case against them. “It is possible we were wrong but how could we sit back while we were being constantly abused? If we have erred, we will apologise, but they (the activists) were trying to spread anarchy.

“Their crime won’t be lessened even if we apologise (for the presser),” said Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio. Fadnavis said there are “pseudo-liberals” in Delhi who are trying to save these activists, but what the BJP was doing was in the national interest.

“There are more evidences apart from the assassination plot of (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi ji. We have 10 times more evidence against these activists than we had based on which professor (G N) Saibaba was convicted (for Maoist links),” he said. The police had claimed to have unearthed a Maoist plot to kill Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The chief minister said the opposition was not concerned about the country and it was only thinking about removing Modi from power.

Fadnavis said he had no hatred for the Gandhi family and regarded its members just as his political and ideological opponents. “We are in the same country not in Pakistan,” he said. Fadnavis said he wasn’t made chief minister due to his proximity with the RSS, but because under his leadership, the BJP exposed opposition parties and fought them.

“When I first became CM people were apprehensive. Now, I have proven track record with facts and figures. Now, not my caste but my work will be seen (in next state polls),” he said. He backed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over renaming Allahabad as Prayagraj.

Despite its constant criticism of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena will have to ally with the BJP for the 2019 polls over the issue of Hindutva, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Tuesday.

Despite its constant criticism of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena will have to ally with the BJP for the 2019 polls over the issue of Hindutva, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Tuesday. He also strongly favoured construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. He said those with the even basic understanding of politics know the BJP and the Sena would have to fight together to win elections. The BJP chief minister was speaking at the “Mumbai Manthan” conclave organised by Hindi news channel Aaj Tak. Earlier this year, Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray had announced his party would go it alone in all future elections. Though the Sena is a BJP ally, it often criticises the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra over their policies and decisions. “Uddhav ji keeps talking about Hindutva. In that case, there are just two parties (the BJP and the Sena) working for Hindutva. Therefore, they have to ally with us for Hindutva,” Fadnavis said. Responding to a query on Ram temple, he said, “Devendra Fadnavis is one of the 125 crore Indians who wants to see a grand Ram temple being built,”. The BJP wants to let the construction happen democratically and as per the Supreme Court’s directive, he added. Fadnavis said the Supreme Court has validated the state government’s stand on the arrest of five Left-wing activists for their alleged links with Maoists. He, however, conceded the police department erred in holding a press conference over the issue. After the arrest of activists in August-end, the Bombay High Court had raised questions over the Maharashtra police’s media briefing on its case against them. “It is possible we were wrong but how could we sit back while we were being constantly abused? If we have erred, we will apologise, but they (the activists) were trying to spread anarchy. “Their crime won’t be lessened even if we apologise (for the presser),” said Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio. Fadnavis said there are “pseudo-liberals” in Delhi who are trying to save these activists, but what the BJP was doing was in the national interest. “There are more evidences apart from the assassination plot of (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi ji. We have 10 times more evidence against these activists than we had based on which professor (G N) Saibaba was convicted (for Maoist links),” he said. The police had claimed to have unearthed a Maoist plot to kill Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The chief minister said the opposition was not concerned about the country and it was only thinking about removing Modi from power. Fadnavis said he had no hatred for the Gandhi family and regarded its members just as his political and ideological opponents. “We are in the same country not in Pakistan,” he said. Fadnavis said he wasn’t made chief minister due to his proximity with the RSS, but because under his leadership, the BJP exposed opposition parties and fought them. “When I first became CM people were apprehensive. Now, I have proven track record with facts and figures. Now, not my caste but my work will be seen (in next state polls),” he said. He backed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over renaming Allahabad as Prayagraj.

Devendra Fadnavis says Shiv Sena will have to ally with BJP ‘for Hindutva’

BJP lawmaker Varun Gandhi Tuesday said when he raised objections about the increase in salaries of MPs, he got a call from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), asking “why are you increasing our troubles?” During a programme in Model Women’s College here, the Sultanpur MP said, “I repeatedly raise my voice about the increase in salaries of MPs and not giving details of their assets.&nbsp;

Employees of every sector get an increase in their wages based on hard work and honesty. But in the last 10 years, MPs have increased their salaries seven times just by raising their hands.” “When I raised this issue once, I received a call from the PMO,” he said.

“Why are you increasing our troubles?” Questioning the education system of the country, he gave examples of schools in Uttar Pradesh. “In Uttar Pradesh schools, except studies, all programmes are held. Religious and marriage functions are organised, after the funeral, the rituals are completed on the premises. Children play cricket and leaders deliver speeches in schools,” Gandhi said.

He said every year Rs 3 lakh crores are spent on education, but 89 per cent of the money is spent on buildings, which cannot be called education.

“Today, 40 per cent of farmers in the country take land on contract, which is illegal because they do not get any help from the government, neither do they get a loan or compensation if the crop is wasted. In the last 10 years, the input cost for farmers has increased threefold, causing distress which led to suicide by 17,000 farmers in Vidarbha,” he said. He also described the increasing pollution in the country as “dangerous” and suggested instead of giving a bouquet of flowers to somebody, give them a plant.

BJP lawmaker Varun Gandhi Tuesday said when he raised objections about the increase in salaries of MPs, he got a call from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), asking “why are you increasing our troubles?

BJP lawmaker Varun Gandhi Tuesday said when he raised objections about the increase in salaries of MPs, he got a call from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), asking “why are you increasing our troubles?” During a programme in Model Women’s College here, the Sultanpur MP said, “I repeatedly raise my voice about the increase in salaries of MPs and not giving details of their assets. Employees of every sector get an increase in their wages based on hard work and honesty. But in the last 10 years, MPs have increased their salaries seven times just by raising their hands.” “When I raised this issue once, I received a call from the PMO,” he said. “Why are you increasing our troubles?” Questioning the education system of the country, he gave examples of schools in Uttar Pradesh. “In Uttar Pradesh schools, except studies, all programmes are held. Religious and marriage functions are organised, after the funeral, the rituals are completed on the premises. Children play cricket and leaders deliver speeches in schools,” Gandhi said. He said every year Rs 3 lakh crores are spent on education, but 89 per cent of the money is spent on buildings, which cannot be called education. “Today, 40 per cent of farmers in the country take land on contract, which is illegal because they do not get any help from the government, neither do they get a loan or compensation if the crop is wasted. In the last 10 years, the input cost for farmers has increased threefold, causing distress which led to suicide by 17,000 farmers in Vidarbha,” he said. He also described the increasing pollution in the country as “dangerous” and suggested instead of giving a bouquet of flowers to somebody, give them a plant.

Got a call from PMO when raised objections about rise in MPs salaries, says Varun Gandhi

The apex board managing the Sabarimala temple Tuesday skipped a discussion on the review petition to be filed against the Supreme Court verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Lord Ayappa temple.&nbsp;

The Travancore Devaswom Board Tuesday reviewed the arrangements at the hill shrine for the upcoming three-month long Mandala-Makaravillaku festival starting from November 16, temple sources said.&nbsp;

Discussion on the legal course to be taken against the court’s order was postponed as the writ petitions connected with the case has been posted for November 13, sources said.

The board is waiting for a legal opinion on the matter, they said. The Supreme Court Tuesday said it would hear on November 13 multiple petitions challenging the Sabarimala verdict allowing entry of women of all age groups into the shrine that remained unimplemented following week-long protests.

The board on Monday had stated that it would take up for discussion the matter Tuesday. It had said that it has the legal responsibility to protect the faith of devotees and the customs and traditions of the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa shrine.

The apex board managing the Sabarimala temple Tuesday skipped a discussion on the review petition to be filed against the Supreme Court verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Lord Ayappa temple.

The apex board managing the Sabarimala temple Tuesday skipped a discussion on the review petition to be filed against the Supreme Court verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Lord Ayappa temple. The Travancore Devaswom Board Tuesday reviewed the arrangements at the hill shrine for the upcoming three-month long Mandala-Makaravillaku festival starting from November 16, temple sources said. Discussion on the legal course to be taken against the court’s order was postponed as the writ petitions connected with the case has been posted for November 13, sources said. The board is waiting for a legal opinion on the matter, they said. The Supreme Court Tuesday said it would hear on November 13 multiple petitions challenging the Sabarimala verdict allowing entry of women of all age groups into the shrine that remained unimplemented following week-long protests. The board on Monday had stated that it would take up for discussion the matter Tuesday. It had said that it has the legal responsibility to protect the faith of devotees and the customs and traditions of the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa shrine.

Sabarimala row: Travancore Devaswom Board skips discussion on review petition

A boat carrying the Maharashtra Chief Secretary capsized off the Mumbai coast Wednesday evening.&nbsp;

PTI quoted a coast guard official as saying the boat capsized near the location of the proposed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial, Shivaji Samarak.&nbsp;

The spot is about 2.6 kms off the Mumbai coast.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a>: A passenger boat has capsized near Shivaji Smarak ( 2.6 km west of Mumbai's Nariman point). Boat belongs to Maharashtra Government. Rescue operation underway. Most people rescued. <a href="https://t.co/rajgTyFEYZ">pic.twitter.com/rajgTyFEYZ</a>
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PTI added that other government officials were also on board.&nbsp;

The coast guard later said all the passengers on board the boat were rescued. &nbsp;

A boat carrying the Maharashtra Chief Secretary capsized off the Mumbai coast Wednesday evening. PTI quoted a coast guard official as saying the boat capsized near the location of the proposed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial, Shivaji Samarak.

A boat carrying the Maharashtra Chief Secretary capsized off the Mumbai coast Wednesday evening. PTI quoted a coast guard official as saying the boat capsized near the location of the proposed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial, Shivaji Samarak. The spot is about 2.6 kms off the Mumbai coast. #Visuals: A passenger boat has capsized near Shivaji Smarak ( 2.6 km west of Mumbai's Nariman point). Boat belongs to Maharashtra Government. Rescue operation underway. Most people rescued. pic.twitter.com/rajgTyFEYZ — ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2018 × #Visuals: A passenger boat had capsized near Shivaji Smarak ( 2.6 km west of Mumbai's Nariman point). Boat belongs to Maharashtra Government. Rescue operation underway. Most people rescued. pic.twitter.com/P1OWEdohKE — ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2018 × PTI added that other government officials were also on board. The coast guard later said all the passengers on board the boat were rescued.

Boat carrying Maharashtra Chief Secretary capsizes off Mumbai coast

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-vs-cbi-alok-verma-did-not-back-up-allegations-against-rakesh-asthana-says-goverment-173201">CBI vs CBI: Alok Verma did not back up allegations against Rakesh Asthana, says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-vs-cbi-alok-verma-did-not-back-up-allegations-against-rakesh-asthana-says-goverment-173201">government</a>

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-virat-157-propels-india-to-321-173223">2nd ODI: Kohli's '</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-virat-157-propels-india-to-321-173223">virat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-virat-157-propels-india-to-321-173223">' 157 against Windies powers India to 321</a>

Indian skipper Virat Kohli smashed an unbeaten 157 to power India to 321 runs in the 2nd ODI against West Indies on Wednesday. Kohli's 129-ball inning was laced with 13 boundaries and four huge sixes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alok-verma-was-collecting-documents-relating-to-rafale-scam-forcibly-sent-on-leave-rahul-gandhi-173185">Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;</a>

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/appointment-of-nageshwar-rao-is-to-ensure-that-cbi-remains-caged-parrot-of-bjp-govt-mk-stalin-173192">Several complaints against Nageshwar Rao were sent to CBI Director: MK Stalin</a>

DMK chief MK Stalin on Wednesday hit out at the Modi-led NDA government and said the appointment of a controversial officer like Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director is nothing but to ensure that CBI remains ''caged parrot'' of the BJP government.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-shares-evidence-with-cia-chief-over-khashoggi-murder-173213">Turkey shares 'evidence' with CIA chief over Khashoggi murder</a>

Turkish intelligence has shared "all the evidence" over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi with the CIA chief during a visit, pro-government media reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

CBI vs CBI: Alok Verma did not back up allegations against Rakesh Asthana, says government The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.

CBI vs CBI: Alok Verma did not back up allegations against Rakesh Asthana, says government The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana. 2nd ODI: Kohli's 'virat' 157 against Windies powers India to 321 Indian skipper Virat Kohli smashed an unbeaten 157 to power India to 321 runs in the 2nd ODI against West Indies on Wednesday. Kohli's 129-ball inning was laced with 13 boundaries and four huge sixes. Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam". Several complaints against Nageshwar Rao were sent to CBI Director: MK Stalin DMK chief MK Stalin on Wednesday hit out at the Modi-led NDA government and said the appointment of a controversial officer like Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director is nothing but to ensure that CBI remains ''caged parrot'' of the BJP government. Turkey shares 'evidence' with CIA chief over Khashoggi murder Turkish intelligence has shared "all the evidence" over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi with the CIA chief during a visit, pro-government media reported on Wednesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">removing CBI Director Alok Verma</a> in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief.

There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal.&nbsp;

He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations.

Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam".

Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them.

"PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP.

"Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet.

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PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. 
 
Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI &amp; LOP. 
 
Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055060503612002304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave."

"The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged.

The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed.

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CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। 
 
प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। 
 
देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं।
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055009856413937665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal.

"The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged.

The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. 
The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam". He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief. There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal. He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations. Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam". Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them. "PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP. "Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet. PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI & LOP. Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave." "The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged. The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed. CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं। — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal. "The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged. The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.

Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi 

Bengaluru police on Wednesday arrested a man for setting up cryptocurrency ATM without any license or permission.&nbsp;

The man has been identified as 37-year-old Harish BN who is the co-founder of Unocoin Technologies and has been running country's first bitcoin ATM in Bengaluru.

Harish has been remanded to seven-day police custody.&nbsp;

The Bengaluru cyber crime police termed the ATM illegal as it facilitated trading of cryptocurrency that is not recognised by the government as legal tender.&nbsp;

The police have also seized the device along with two laptops and a mobile phone.

The police urged the public not to be lured by the prospect of making huge profits and invest money in cryptocurrencies.

Bengaluru police on Wednesday arrested a man for setting up cryptocurrency ATM without any license or permission. The man has been identified as 37-year-old Harish BN who is the co-founder of Unocoin Technologies and has been running country's first bitcoin ATM in Bengaluru.

Bengaluru police on Wednesday arrested a man for setting up cryptocurrency ATM without any license or permission. The man has been identified as 37-year-old Harish BN who is the co-founder of Unocoin Technologies and has been running country's first bitcoin ATM in Bengaluru. Harish has been remanded to seven-day police custody. The Bengaluru cyber crime police termed the ATM illegal as it facilitated trading of cryptocurrency that is not recognised by the government as legal tender. The police have also seized the device along with two laptops and a mobile phone. The police urged the public not to be lured by the prospect of making huge profits and invest money in cryptocurrencies.

Bengaluru: Police arrest man behind country's first cryptocurrency ATM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement.&nbsp;

Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued.&nbsp;

''I'm connected through social media, however, I do not believe every information that I come across. I find the information I want on social media,'' Modi further said.&nbsp;

The prime minister also lauded the youngsters' effort in leveraging the power of technology.&nbsp;

India's youngsters are leveraging the power of technology wonderfully. They are using technology not only for themselves but also for the welfare of others which is a great sign, the PM said.&nbsp;

The symbol of the Swachh Bharat Mission is the specs of Bapu, the inspiration is Bapu and we are fulfilling Bapu's vision, said Modi referring to Gandhi's ideas on sanitation and hygiene which the father of the nation considered to be more important than political independence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement. Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement. Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued. ''I'm connected through social media, however, I do not believe every information that I come across. I find the information I want on social media,'' Modi further said. The prime minister also lauded the youngsters' effort in leveraging the power of technology. India's youngsters are leveraging the power of technology wonderfully. They are using technology not only for themselves but also for the welfare of others which is a great sign, the PM said. The symbol of the Swachh Bharat Mission is the specs of Bapu, the inspiration is Bapu and we are fulfilling Bapu's vision, said Modi referring to Gandhi's ideas on sanitation and hygiene which the father of the nation considered to be more important than political independence.

Success of any government initiative lies in public involvement: PM Modi 

The Seoul Peace Prize awarded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a matter of immense pride for all Indians, BJP president Amit Shah said Wednesday, adding that the honour has taken note of "Modinomics" whose foundation is to "further the spirit of equality".&nbsp;

The prime minister was conferred with the award for his contribution to international cooperation and fostering global economic growth, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Modi has been honoured for improving the human development of fellow Indians by ushering economic growth and furthering the development of democracy through steps towards ending corruption and furthering social integration," Shah said in a series of tweets.&nbsp;

Describing the award as a "matter of great joy" and "immense pride for 130 crore Indians", the BJP chief said Modi's efforts towards boosting global cooperation and raising global economic growth have been noted by the awarding committee.

"I am glad that the Award Committee has taken note of 'Modinomics' whose foundation is to further a spirit of equality and empowerment for all sections of society.

Furthermore, the PM's bold and innovative foreign policy including the 'Act East Policy' have been hailed," he tweeted.

Shah said the award was a recognition of Modi's leadership, adding that the prime minister was at the forefront of building a better tomorrow through 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (development for all).&nbsp;

He said the Seoul Peace Prize is considered among the most valued global prizes, whose previous laureates include former UN secretary generals, world leaders, top policymakers and organisations driving monumental social change across the length and breadth of the planet.

The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to commemorate the success of the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul. The award was established to crystalise Korean people's yearning for peace on the Korean peninsula and the rest of the world.&nbsp;

Modi is the 14th recipient of the award and the past laureates include former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and renowned international relief organisations like Doctors Without Borders and Oxfam.&nbsp;

The Seoul Peace Prize awarded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a matter of immense pride for all Indians, BJP president Amit Shah said Wednesday, adding that the honour has taken note of "Modinomics" whose foundation is to "further the spirit of equality".

The Seoul Peace Prize awarded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a matter of immense pride for all Indians, BJP president Amit Shah said Wednesday, adding that the honour has taken note of "Modinomics" whose foundation is to "further the spirit of equality". The prime minister was conferred with the award for his contribution to international cooperation and fostering global economic growth, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said. "Prime Minister Modi has been honoured for improving the human development of fellow Indians by ushering economic growth and furthering the development of democracy through steps towards ending corruption and furthering social integration," Shah said in a series of tweets. Describing the award as a "matter of great joy" and "immense pride for 130 crore Indians", the BJP chief said Modi's efforts towards boosting global cooperation and raising global economic growth have been noted by the awarding committee. "I am glad that the Award Committee has taken note of 'Modinomics' whose foundation is to further a spirit of equality and empowerment for all sections of society. Furthermore, the PM's bold and innovative foreign policy including the 'Act East Policy' have been hailed," he tweeted. Shah said the award was a recognition of Modi's leadership, adding that the prime minister was at the forefront of building a better tomorrow through 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (development for all). He said the Seoul Peace Prize is considered among the most valued global prizes, whose previous laureates include former UN secretary generals, world leaders, top policymakers and organisations driving monumental social change across the length and breadth of the planet. The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to commemorate the success of the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul. The award was established to crystalise Korean people's yearning for peace on the Korean peninsula and the rest of the world. Modi is the 14th recipient of the award and the past laureates include former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and renowned international relief organisations like Doctors Without Borders and Oxfam.

Seoul Peace Prize to PM is recognition of 'Modinomics': Amit Shah

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">CBI chief and deputy on leave </a>was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility.

"CBI is India's premier investigation agency and hence the maintenance of its institutional integrity is essential. This is important not only for the scandals being probed in India, but also to maintain the credible image of the agency globally. Unfortunately, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-cbi-chief-alok-verma-moves-supreme-court-challenging-govts-leave-order-173134">top two officers of CBI</a> have alleged bribery cases against each other," Jaitley said.

On midnight order of the government, Jaitley said, 'The CVC met last evening. If the government acts fast, it is said why the hurry and if it is slow, it is termed as policy paralysis. The CVCs recommendation and the government's action is intended to restore the institutional integrity and credibility of CBI'.

Calling the battle in CBI as an "extraordinary," Jaitley said, "It is important that the fairness of our investigation agency is maintained."

"Regarding, the charge the three opposition parties have made, I regard this charge as a rubbish. The fact that the 3 opposition parties are saying, that we know what the agency was going to do next, itself casts a serious doubt on the fairness process," said Union finance minister Arun Jaitley.

The Opposition has come down heavily on the Modi government for Verma’s removal, with the Congress dubbing it the “last nail” in the agency’s independence and the CPI(M) calling it illegal.

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending CBI chief and deputy on leave was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility.

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending CBI chief and deputy on leave was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility. "CBI is India's premier investigation agency and hence the maintenance of its institutional integrity is essential. This is important not only for the scandals being probed in India, but also to maintain the credible image of the agency globally. Unfortunately, the top two officers of CBI have alleged bribery cases against each other," Jaitley said. On midnight order of the government, Jaitley said, 'The CVC met last evening. If the government acts fast, it is said why the hurry and if it is slow, it is termed as policy paralysis. The CVCs recommendation and the government's action is intended to restore the institutional integrity and credibility of CBI'. Calling the battle in CBI as an "extraordinary," Jaitley said, "It is important that the fairness of our investigation agency is maintained." "Regarding, the charge the three opposition parties have made, I regard this charge as a rubbish. The fact that the 3 opposition parties are saying, that we know what the agency was going to do next, itself casts a serious doubt on the fairness process," said Union finance minister Arun Jaitley. The Opposition has come down heavily on the Modi government for Verma’s removal, with the Congress dubbing it the “last nail” in the agency’s independence and the CPI(M) calling it illegal.

Government action intended to restore credibility of CBI: Arun Jaitley

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace.

The members of the GoM are Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi.

The GoM will work towards strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with, and prevent sexual harassment at workplace, a report said.

It will recommend action required for effective implementation of the existing provisions, as well as for strengthening the existing legal and institutional frameworks for addressing issues related to sexual harassment at workplace, the official said.

The GoM has been set up in the wake of #MeToo movement where several women have publicly named people who had harassed them at their workplace.

Former editor M J Akbar had to resign as Minister of State for External Affairs following allegations of sexual harassment against him by former colleagues.&nbsp;

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace.

The government on Wednesday constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in order to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent sexual harassment at workplace. The members of the GoM are Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi. The GoM will work towards strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with, and prevent sexual harassment at workplace, a report said. It will recommend action required for effective implementation of the existing provisions, as well as for strengthening the existing legal and institutional frameworks for addressing issues related to sexual harassment at workplace, the official said. The GoM has been set up in the wake of #MeToo movement where several women have publicly named people who had harassed them at their workplace. Former editor M J Akbar had to resign as Minister of State for External Affairs following allegations of sexual harassment against him by former colleagues.

Rajnath Singh to head GoM to look into sexual harassment at workplace

DMK chief MK Stalin on Wednesday hit out at the Modi-led NDA government and said the appointment of a controversial officer like Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director is nothing but to ensure that CBI remains ''caged parrot'' of the BJP government, &nbsp;

Weighing in on the ongoing controversy involving the country's premier investigation agency, Stalin said the move has been initiated to cover up Rafale scam investigations. A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alok-verma-was-collecting-documents-relating-to-rafale-scam-forcibly-sent-on-leave-rahul-gandhi-173185">similar allegation </a>levelled against the Mod-government by Congress president Rahul Gandhi today.

''The move showed that an undeclared emergency has been imposed in our country,'' Stalin said.

Stalin also alleged that Rao met Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O. Panneerselvam at the state secretariat. ''When CBI is investigating Gutkha scam and the Madras high court has ordered an investigation against the Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami for awarding contracts to his relatives, the move to send CBI director Alok Verma has raised suspicions,'' he said.&nbsp;

Several complaints were sent to CBI director against Nageshwar Rao and there are reports that the CBI director Alok Verma wanted to initiate investigations into allegations against him, Stalin said on Nageshwar Rao appointed as CBI interim director.&nbsp;

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Several complaints were sent to CBI director against Nageshwar Rao and there are reports that the CBI director Alok Verma wanted to initiate investigations into allegations against him: DMK Chief MK Stalin on Nageshwar Rao appointed as CBI interim director. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/K4oe8IoPw4">pic.twitter.com/K4oe8IoPw4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055030390249938945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents related to the Rafale "scam".

DMK chief MK Stalin on Wednesday hit out at the Modi-led NDA government and said the appointment of a controversial officer like Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director is nothing but to ensure that CBI remains ''caged parrot'' of the BJP government, Weighing in on the ongoing controversy involving the country's premier investigation agency, Stalin said the move has been initiated to cover up Rafale scam investigations.

DMK chief MK Stalin on Wednesday hit out at the Modi-led NDA government and said the appointment of a controversial officer like Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director is nothing but to ensure that CBI remains ''caged parrot'' of the BJP government, Weighing in on the ongoing controversy involving the country's premier investigation agency, Stalin said the move has been initiated to cover up Rafale scam investigations. A similar allegation levelled against the Mod-government by Congress president Rahul Gandhi today. ''The move showed that an undeclared emergency has been imposed in our country,'' Stalin said. Stalin also alleged that Rao met Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O. Panneerselvam at the state secretariat. ''When CBI is investigating Gutkha scam and the Madras high court has ordered an investigation against the Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami for awarding contracts to his relatives, the move to send CBI director Alok Verma has raised suspicions,'' he said. Several complaints were sent to CBI director against Nageshwar Rao and there are reports that the CBI director Alok Verma wanted to initiate investigations into allegations against him, Stalin said on Nageshwar Rao appointed as CBI interim director. Several complaints were sent to CBI director against Nageshwar Rao and there are reports that the CBI director Alok Verma wanted to initiate investigations into allegations against him: DMK Chief MK Stalin on Nageshwar Rao appointed as CBI interim director. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/K4oe8IoPw4 — ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2018 × Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents related to the Rafale "scam".

Several complaints against Nageshwar Rao were sent to CBI Director: MK Stalin

State-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has won an additional $777 million contract to supply LRSAM air-and-missile defence systems to seven ships in the Indian navy, the company said on Wednesday.

The contract is with the Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), which is the main contractor in the project, IAI said.

The LRSAM, part of the Barak 8 family, is an air-and-missile defence system used by Israel's navy as well as India's navy, air and land forces.

With this deal, sales of the Barak 8 over the past few years total over $6 billion, IAI said.

"IAI's partnership with India dates many years back and has culminated in joint system development and production," IAI CEO&nbsp;Nimrod Sheffer said. "India is a major market for IAI and we plan to&nbsp;reinforce our positioning in India, also in view of increasing competition."

Israel's and India's leaders have pledged to deepen ties and the countries have been increasing cooperation in fields like agriculture and advanced technologies. Israel is also emerging as one of India’s biggest suppliers of weapons, alongside the United States and long-term partner Russia.

Last year, IAI had struck a deal worth almost $2 billion to supply India’s army and navy with missile defence systems. This was followed by a $630 million contract with BEL to supply Barak 8 surface-to-air missile systems for four ships in the Indian navy.

The Barak 8 was developed by IAI in collaboration with Israel's Defence Ministry, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), the navies of both countries, Israel's Rafael and local industries in India and Israel.

State-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has won an additional $777 million contract to supply LRSAM air-and-missile defence systems to seven ships in the Indian navy, the company said on Wednesday.

State-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has won an additional $777 million contract to supply LRSAM air-and-missile defence systems to seven ships in the Indian navy, the company said on Wednesday. The contract is with the Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), which is the main contractor in the project, IAI said. The LRSAM, part of the Barak 8 family, is an air-and-missile defence system used by Israel's navy as well as India's navy, air and land forces. With this deal, sales of the Barak 8 over the past few years total over $6 billion, IAI said. "IAI's partnership with India dates many years back and has culminated in joint system development and production," IAI CEO Nimrod Sheffer said. "India is a major market for IAI and we plan to reinforce our positioning in India, also in view of increasing competition." Israel's and India's leaders have pledged to deepen ties and the countries have been increasing cooperation in fields like agriculture and advanced technologies. Israel is also emerging as one of India’s biggest suppliers of weapons, alongside the United States and long-term partner Russia. Last year, IAI had struck a deal worth almost $2 billion to supply India’s army and navy with missile defence systems. This was followed by a $630 million contract with BEL to supply Barak 8 surface-to-air missile systems for four ships in the Indian navy. The Barak 8 was developed by IAI in collaboration with Israel's Defence Ministry, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), the navies of both countries, Israel's Rafael and local industries in India and Israel.

Israel's Aerospace Industries to supply additional LRSAM defence systems to Indian navy

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Normal life remained affected for the second consecutive day on Tuesday as the authorities imposed restrictions in certain parts of the city to foil a sit-in protest by separatists at Lal Chowk over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district Sunday.

All roads leading to Lal Chowk’s historic Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) were sealed, with a large number of police and paramilitary personnel deployed to foil any attempt by the separatists to reach there, officials said.

The authorities also imposed restrictions in parts of the old city as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, they added.

Shops, private offices and other business establishments remained shut in many parts of the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, while public transport was off the roads.

The separatists had not called for a strike on Tuesday, but the authorities shut down all educational institutions and postponed examinations.

While a shutdown was observed Monday, the separatists called for a sit-in at Lal Chowk over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in the Laroo area of Kulgam district in south Kashmir.

The agitation programme was announced by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Mirwaiz and Geelani have been placed under house arrest.

Three militants were killed in the Kulgam encounter Sunday, while seven civilians lost their lives in a blast following a gunfight.

Normal life remained affected for the second consecutive day on Tuesday as the authorities imposed restrictions in certain parts of the city to foil a sit-in protest by separatists at Lal Chowk over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district Sunday.

Normal life remained affected for the second consecutive day on Tuesday as the authorities imposed restrictions in certain parts of the city to foil a sit-in protest by separatists at Lal Chowk over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district Sunday. All roads leading to Lal Chowk’s historic Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) were sealed, with a large number of police and paramilitary personnel deployed to foil any attempt by the separatists to reach there, officials said. The authorities also imposed restrictions in parts of the old city as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, they added. Shops, private offices and other business establishments remained shut in many parts of the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, while public transport was off the roads. The separatists had not called for a strike on Tuesday, but the authorities shut down all educational institutions and postponed examinations. While a shutdown was observed Monday, the separatists called for a sit-in at Lal Chowk over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in the Laroo area of Kulgam district in south Kashmir. The agitation programme was announced by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL). Mirwaiz and Geelani have been placed under house arrest. Three militants were killed in the Kulgam encounter Sunday, while seven civilians lost their lives in a blast following a gunfight.

Security beefed up to foil sit-in by separatists over death of civilians in Kulgam encounter

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a&nbsp;stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district.&nbsp;

The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said. The Railways added that the stampede was caused by a heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge.&nbsp;

Witnesses said two trains had just arrived at the station and a third was about to arrive, causing the sudden rush of passengers. The witnesses reported massive panic among the passengers.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for an&nbsp;investigation "as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of Railways".&nbsp;

"... too many such tragedies are happening like this," she had tweeted earlier.&nbsp;"Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The injured meanwhile have been rushed to hospital.

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Two people are dead in the incident. There should be an investigation, as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of railways: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on stampede at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. <a href="https://t.co/nHdRPzlKzR">pic.twitter.com/nHdRPzlKzR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1054773468305260546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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West Bengal: 14 injured in a stampede following heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. Injured shifted to hospital <a href="https://t.co/CJw1oXbFSC">pic.twitter.com/CJw1oXbFSC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1054752036854657024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Another unfortunate incident on railways today. Sadly, too many such tragedies are happening like this even during festive season, including Amritsar. Railways are the lifeline of our nation. Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1054763575682719744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee also announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh would be paid to the family of the deceased, and Rs 1 lakh to each of the injured.&nbsp;

The Railways meanwhile has issued helpline numbers.

The numbers are 0322-21072 (Kharagpur) and 0332-6295561 (Santragachi).&nbsp;

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district. The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said.

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district. The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said. The Railways added that the stampede was caused by a heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge. Witnesses said two trains had just arrived at the station and a third was about to arrive, causing the sudden rush of passengers. The witnesses reported massive panic among the passengers. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for an investigation "as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of Railways". "... too many such tragedies are happening like this," she had tweeted earlier. "Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times." The injured meanwhile have been rushed to hospital. Two people are dead in the incident. There should be an investigation, as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of railways: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on stampede at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. pic.twitter.com/nHdRPzlKzR — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2018 × West Bengal: 14 injured in a stampede following heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. Injured shifted to hospital pic.twitter.com/CJw1oXbFSC — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2018 × Another unfortunate incident on railways today. Sadly, too many such tragedies are happening like this even during festive season, including Amritsar. Railways are the lifeline of our nation. Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 23, 2018 × Banerjee also announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh would be paid to the family of the deceased, and Rs 1 lakh to each of the injured. The Railways meanwhile has issued helpline numbers. The numbers are 0322-21072 (Kharagpur) and 0332-6295561 (Santragachi).

West Bengal: Two dead, 14 injured in stampede at railway station in Howrah

The Army on Monday warned Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil, a day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani "intruders" in a gunfight in Sunderbani sector of Jammu on Sunday, official sources said.

They said the Army has also asked the Pakistan military to take back bodies of the two "intruders", who were wearing combat uniforms and believed to be members of Pakistani Border Action Team, they said.

Two heavily armed Pakistani intruders and three Army soldiers were killed Sunday in the gunfight after the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Sunderbani sector.

The sources said Pakistan Army has been informed, through established communication channels, to take possession of the bodies of the "hostile Pakistani nationals" and that a "stern warning" was also conveyed to the military of the neighbouring country to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil.

The incident on Sunday took place at around 1:20 PM.

The sources said five to six Pakistani intruders crossed the LoC and fired on Indian Army patrol in the Sunderbani sector.

Three soldiers of Eight Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI), Havildar Kaushal Kumar of Nowshera (Rajouri), lance naik Ranjeet Singh of Doda and rifleman Rajat Kumar Basan of Pallanwala (Jammu), were killed while rifleman Rakesh Kumar of Samba suffered injuries in the gunfight.

The sources said since the talks between DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two countries on May 29, the Indian Army has been maintaining "utmost restraint" to uphold the ceasefire pact along the LoC despite regular provocative actions from across the border.

However, Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC and seven infiltration bids have been foiled by the Indian Army since May 30, in which 23 terrorists have been killed.

Reports suggest a concentration of a large number of terrorists in launch pads across the border, desperate to infiltrate into India before the onset of winter.

Sources said the Army was ready to deal with any challenge along the LoC which has been witnessing frequent incidents of cross-border firing since January.

The Indian Army has been adopting a "tough" approach in dealing with ceasefire violations and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir in the last one year.

The Army on Monday warned Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil, a day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani "intruders" in a gunfight in Sunderbani sector of Jammu on Sunday, official sources said.

The Army on Monday warned Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil, a day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani "intruders" in a gunfight in Sunderbani sector of Jammu on Sunday, official sources said. They said the Army has also asked the Pakistan military to take back bodies of the two "intruders", who were wearing combat uniforms and believed to be members of Pakistani Border Action Team, they said. Two heavily armed Pakistani intruders and three Army soldiers were killed Sunday in the gunfight after the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Sunderbani sector. The sources said Pakistan Army has been informed, through established communication channels, to take possession of the bodies of the "hostile Pakistani nationals" and that a "stern warning" was also conveyed to the military of the neighbouring country to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil. The incident on Sunday took place at around 1:20 PM. The sources said five to six Pakistani intruders crossed the LoC and fired on Indian Army patrol in the Sunderbani sector. Three soldiers of Eight Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI), Havildar Kaushal Kumar of Nowshera (Rajouri), lance naik Ranjeet Singh of Doda and rifleman Rajat Kumar Basan of Pallanwala (Jammu), were killed while rifleman Rakesh Kumar of Samba suffered injuries in the gunfight. The sources said since the talks between DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) of the two countries on May 29, the Indian Army has been maintaining "utmost restraint" to uphold the ceasefire pact along the LoC despite regular provocative actions from across the border. However, Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC and seven infiltration bids have been foiled by the Indian Army since May 30, in which 23 terrorists have been killed. Reports suggest a concentration of a large number of terrorists in launch pads across the border, desperate to infiltrate into India before the onset of winter. Sources said the Army was ready to deal with any challenge along the LoC which has been witnessing frequent incidents of cross-border firing since January. The Indian Army has been adopting a "tough" approach in dealing with ceasefire violations and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir in the last one year.

Indian Army asks Pakistan to take back bodies of intruders killed in Sunderbani sector

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that it will hear on November 13 the petitions seeking a review of its earlier verdict that allowed entry of women of all age groups in Sabarimala Temple.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice S.K. Kaul said the court is aware of the 19 petitions submitted seeking review of the judgment and has listed the hearing for November 13.&nbsp;

A five-judge constitution bench by a ratio of 4:1 had held that women of all age groups should be allowed entry in Kerala’s Sabarimala Temple.

The doors to Sabarimala temple closed Monday night, six days after opening for the first time since the Supreme Court lifted the ban on entry of women of menstruating age, but climbing the 18 "sacred steps" leading to the sanctum sanctorum proved a tall order for them.

The temple will open briefly on November 5 evening for the next day's 'Chithira Attavisesham' to celebrate the birth anniversary of Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last king of Travancore.

The doors of the shrine will open on November 17 for the three-month-long Mandalam Makaravilakku celebrations when lakhs of devotees from the country and abroad visit the place every year.

If the Supreme Court does not stay or overturn its own verdict by then, enforcing its historic order may prove to be a daunting task for the Kerala government.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that it will hear on November 13 the petitions seeking a review of its earlier verdict that allowed entry of women of all age groups in Sabarimala Temple.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that it will hear on November 13 the petitions seeking a review of its earlier verdict that allowed entry of women of all age groups in Sabarimala Temple. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice S.K. Kaul said the court is aware of the 19 petitions submitted seeking review of the judgment and has listed the hearing for November 13. A five-judge constitution bench by a ratio of 4:1 had held that women of all age groups should be allowed entry in Kerala’s Sabarimala Temple. The doors to Sabarimala temple closed Monday night, six days after opening for the first time since the Supreme Court lifted the ban on entry of women of menstruating age, but climbing the 18 "sacred steps" leading to the sanctum sanctorum proved a tall order for them. The temple will open briefly on November 5 evening for the next day's 'Chithira Attavisesham' to celebrate the birth anniversary of Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last king of Travancore. The doors of the shrine will open on November 17 for the three-month-long Mandalam Makaravilakku celebrations when lakhs of devotees from the country and abroad visit the place every year. If the Supreme Court does not stay or overturn its own verdict by then, enforcing its historic order may prove to be a daunting task for the Kerala government. (With inputs from PTI)

Sabarimala temple verdict: Supreme Court to hear review petitions on November 13

The India Army and Pakistan Army will hold Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) level talks over the phone today, sources said.

The Indian Army will raise issues of infiltration bids, actions of Border Action Team (BAT) and use of Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) territory for propagating terrorist activities.

 
Earlier, the Pakistan Army was informed through established communication channels to take over the bodies of the hostile Pakistani nationals. A stern warning has been given to the Pakistan Army to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil.

On October 21, five to six Pakistani armed intruders crossed the LoC and fired on Indian Army patrol in the Sunderbani sector of Jammu region. Three Indian Army soldiers were killed and one suffered injuries in the unprovoked cross-border action by Pakistan. Two intruders were also killed by the Indian armed forces. The intruders were wearing combat uniform, however, their identity could not be ascertained.

Since the last DGMO level talks on May 29, which was held at the behest of Pakistan, Indian Army has been maintaining utmost restraint to uphold the ceasefire along the LoC despite regular provocative actions from across the border.

However, Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC. Since May 30, seven infiltration bids have been eliminated by the Indian Army in which 23 terrorists have been killed.

The India Army and Pakistan Army will hold Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) level talks over the phone today, sources said. The Indian Army will raise issues of infiltration bids, actions of Border Action Team (BAT) and use of Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) territory for propagating terrorist activities.

The India Army and Pakistan Army will hold Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) level talks over the phone today, sources said. The Indian Army will raise issues of infiltration bids, actions of Border Action Team (BAT) and use of Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) territory for propagating terrorist activities. Earlier, the Pakistan Army was informed through established communication channels to take over the bodies of the hostile Pakistani nationals. A stern warning has been given to the Pakistan Army to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil. On October 21, five to six Pakistani armed intruders crossed the LoC and fired on Indian Army patrol in the Sunderbani sector of Jammu region. Three Indian Army soldiers were killed and one suffered injuries in the unprovoked cross-border action by Pakistan. Two intruders were also killed by the Indian armed forces. The intruders were wearing combat uniform, however, their identity could not be ascertained. Since the last DGMO level talks on May 29, which was held at the behest of Pakistan, Indian Army has been maintaining utmost restraint to uphold the ceasefire along the LoC despite regular provocative actions from across the border. However, Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC. Since May 30, seven infiltration bids have been eliminated by the Indian Army in which 23 terrorists have been killed.

India, Pakistan to hold DGMO-level talks today; Army to raise issues of infiltration, BAT actions

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