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The Income Tax Department has launched a major operation to investigate cases of illegal funds and properties stashed abroad by Indians and may invoke the new anti-black money law for strict criminal action in many such cases, officials said Monday.

The department, in coordination with their foreign counterparts, is investigating offshore bank deposits and purchase of assets by "thousands of Indians", the officials added.

The CBDT Chairman Sushil Chandra confirmed the move but refused to elaborate.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/number-of-crorepatis-has-risen-by-60-in-india-cbdt-172786">Tax Board says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/number-of-crorepatis-has-risen-by-60-in-india-cbdt-172786">number</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/number-of-crorepatis-has-risen-by-60-in-india-cbdt-172786"> of Indian crorepatis has risen by 60% in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/number-of-crorepatis-has-risen-by-60-in-india-cbdt-172786">last</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/number-of-crorepatis-has-risen-by-60-in-india-cbdt-172786"> 4 years</a>

Officials, however, said the taxman, armed with vital transaction details of overseas transactions from the financial intelligence unit (FIU) and other sources, is working on such cases across the country and this was part of a major "concerted" action against black money.

In a number of cases, notices have been issued to individuals or other categories of taxpayers to explain their transactions, the officials said.

A number of these cases involve high-profile and prominent people, while several high-net worth individuals are under the scanner. However, only those cases will face criminal action under the new anti-black money law which have not been reflected before the taxman in the income tax returns (ITRs) or have been done with an intent to evade taxes, they said.

The government brought this new law -- The Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act -- in 2015.

The new legislation deals with cases of overseas illegal assets, which till recently were probed under the Income Tax Act, 1961. This new legislation has provisions for a steep 120 per cent tax and penalty on undisclosed foreign assets and income, besides a jail term of up to 10 years.&nbsp;

The Income Tax Department has launched a major operation to investigate cases of illegal funds and properties stashed abroad by Indians and may invoke the new anti-black money law for strict criminal action in many such cases, officials said Monday.

The Income Tax Department has launched a major operation to investigate cases of illegal funds and properties stashed abroad by Indians and may invoke the new anti-black money law for strict criminal action in many such cases, officials said Monday. The department, in coordination with their foreign counterparts, is investigating offshore bank deposits and purchase of assets by "thousands of Indians", the officials added. The CBDT Chairman Sushil Chandra confirmed the move but refused to elaborate. Also read: Tax Board says number of Indian crorepatis has risen by 60% in last 4 years Officials, however, said the taxman, armed with vital transaction details of overseas transactions from the financial intelligence unit (FIU) and other sources, is working on such cases across the country and this was part of a major "concerted" action against black money. In a number of cases, notices have been issued to individuals or other categories of taxpayers to explain their transactions, the officials said. A number of these cases involve high-profile and prominent people, while several high-net worth individuals are under the scanner. However, only those cases will face criminal action under the new anti-black money law which have not been reflected before the taxman in the income tax returns (ITRs) or have been done with an intent to evade taxes, they said. The government brought this new law -- The Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act -- in 2015. The new legislation deals with cases of overseas illegal assets, which till recently were probed under the Income Tax Act, 1961. This new legislation has provisions for a steep 120 per cent tax and penalty on undisclosed foreign assets and income, besides a jail term of up to 10 years.

I-T dept launches massive operation to probe cash, properties of Indians stashed abroad

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-dialogue-to-resolve-kashmir-issue-172803">Pakistan PM Imran Khan again calls for dialogue with India to resolve Kashmir issue</a>

India should move to resolve the Kashmir issue through dialogue, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudis-king-salman-prince-mohammed-makes-condolence-call-to-jamal-khashoggis-son-172794">Saudi King, Crown Prince Salman make </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudis-king-salman-prince-mohammed-makes-condolence-call-to-jamal-khashoggis-son-172794">condolence</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudis-king-salman-prince-mohammed-makes-condolence-call-to-jamal-khashoggis-son-172794"> call to Jamal Khashoggi's son</a>

Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman made a condolence call Monday to murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi's son.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/well-respond-in-kind-if-us-develops-intermediate-missiles-russia-172795">We'll respond in kind if </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/well-respond-in-kind-if-us-develops-intermediate-missiles-russia-172795">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/well-respond-in-kind-if-us-develops-intermediate-missiles-russia-172795"> develops intermediate missiles: Russia</a>

The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia would be forced to respond in kind if the United States began developing new missiles after quitting a landmark Cold War-era treaty.

http://www.wionews.com/world/well-respond-in-kind-if-us-develops-intermediate-missiles-russia-172795

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amritsar-train-tragedy-had-taken-all-permissions-says-dussehra-event-organiser-172807">Amritsar train tragedy: 'Had taken all permissions,' says Dussehra event organiser</a>

Two days after the report of Sourabh Madan Mithu, one of the key organisers of the Dussera event in Amritsar went untraceable; a video message has now been released in which he is claimed that he had taken "all permission". He also said that he and his family are extremely pained by the accident.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-pact-is-key-to-europes-security-macron-to-trump-172810">Nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-pact-is-key-to-europes-security-macron-to-trump-172810"> pact is key to Europe's security: Macron to Trump</a>

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to US President Donald Trump on Sunday to stress the importance of a Cold War-era nuclear treaty Trump said Washington would withdraw from, Macron's office said in a statement on Monday.

&nbsp;

Pakistan PM Imran Khan again calls for dialogue with India to resolve Kashmir issue India should move to resolve the Kashmir issue through dialogue, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan again calls for dialogue with India to resolve Kashmir issue India should move to resolve the Kashmir issue through dialogue, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday. Saudi King, Crown Prince Salman make condolence call to Jamal Khashoggi's son Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman made a condolence call Monday to murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi's son. We'll respond in kind if US develops intermediate missiles: Russia The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia would be forced to respond in kind if the United States began developing new missiles after quitting a landmark Cold War-era treaty. http://www.wionews.com/world/well-respond-in-kind-if-us-develops-intermediate-missiles-russia-172795 Amritsar train tragedy: 'Had taken all permissions,' says Dussehra event organiser Two days after the report of Sourabh Madan Mithu, one of the key organisers of the Dussera event in Amritsar went untraceable; a video message has now been released in which he is claimed that he had taken "all permission". He also said that he and his family are extremely pained by the accident. Nuclear pact is key to Europe's security: Macron to Trump French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to US President Donald Trump on Sunday to stress the importance of a Cold War-era nuclear treaty Trump said Washington would withdraw from, Macron's office said in a statement on Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani intruders in a gunfight which also <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-six-civilians-die-in-blast-after-encounter-kills-3-militants-172656">left three soldiers dead</a>, the Army on Monday conveyed a stern warning to Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil.&nbsp;

The army also asked Pakistan to take over the bodies of its two hostile nationals, said an army officer who did not want to be named.&nbsp;

"Pakistan Army has been informed through established communication channels to take over the bodies of the hostile Pakistani Nationals. A stern warning has been conveyed to Pakistan Army to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil," the officer said.

Three soldiers of Eight Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) — Havildar Kaushal Kumar of Nowshera (Rajouri), Lance Naik Ranjeet Singh of Doda and rifleman Rajat Kumar Basan of Pallanwala (Jammu) — were killed and rifleman Rakesh Kumar of Samba was injured when a group of five to six Pakistani armed intruders crossed the line of control (LoC) and fired on an army patrol in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the ensuing fire-fight, two intruders wearing combat uniform and believed to be members of the Pakistani Border Action Team, were eliminated but their identity could not be ascertained.&nbsp;

The officer said since the Director General of Military operations (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, the Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC which was evident from the fact that seven infiltration bids have been foiled by the Army since May 30, in which 23 terrorists have been killed, the officer said.

He said reports suggest concentration of large number of terrorists in the launch pads desperate to infiltrate before the onset of snow.

The army troops are fully alert and maintaining round-the-clock vigil to scuttle any attempt of infiltration by the terrorists, he said.&nbsp;

A day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani intruders in a gunfight which also left three soldiers dead, the Army on Monday conveyed a stern warning to Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil.

A day after killing two heavily-armed Pakistani intruders in a gunfight which also left three soldiers dead, the Army on Monday conveyed a stern warning to Pakistan to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil. The army also asked Pakistan to take over the bodies of its two hostile nationals, said an army officer who did not want to be named. "Pakistan Army has been informed through established communication channels to take over the bodies of the hostile Pakistani Nationals. A stern warning has been conveyed to Pakistan Army to restrain the terrorists operating from its soil," the officer said. Three soldiers of Eight Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) — Havildar Kaushal Kumar of Nowshera (Rajouri), Lance Naik Ranjeet Singh of Doda and rifleman Rajat Kumar Basan of Pallanwala (Jammu) — were killed and rifleman Rakesh Kumar of Samba was injured when a group of five to six Pakistani armed intruders crossed the line of control (LoC) and fired on an army patrol in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district on Sunday. During the ensuing fire-fight, two intruders wearing combat uniform and believed to be members of the Pakistani Border Action Team, were eliminated but their identity could not be ascertained. The officer said since the Director General of Military operations (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, the Pakistan Army has been vigorously attempting to send terrorists across the LoC which was evident from the fact that seven infiltration bids have been foiled by the Army since May 30, in which 23 terrorists have been killed, the officer said. He said reports suggest concentration of large number of terrorists in the launch pads desperate to infiltrate before the onset of snow. The army troops are fully alert and maintaining round-the-clock vigil to scuttle any attempt of infiltration by the terrorists, he said.

Pakistan asked to take back bodies of 2 slain intruders: Indian Army

In this episode of WION Traveller, Meraj and Johan explore sites around Kullu district's Naggar town. Naggar is an ancient town in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Watch video to know more.

WION Traveller: Meraj and Johan explore sites around Kullu's ancient town Naggar

Follow Meraj and Johan as they visit an ancient village made of wood and stone in the hills of Kullu valley, and find an ingenious method to make stoves more efficient.

WION Traveller: Rumsu Village and Himalayan rocket stove

The CBI has arrested its Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar in connection with bribery allegations involving its Special Director and second-in-command Rakesh Asthana, officials said Monday.

Kumar, who was earlier the investigation officer in a case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi, has been arrested on the allegations of forgery in recording the statement of Sathish Sana, who had alleged to have paid bribes to get relief in the case, they said.

It is alleged that a statement of Sana was purportedly recorded on September 26, 2018 by the investigating team headed by Asthana, but it emerged in the CBI probe that on that given day the businessman was in Hyderabad, they claimed.

In his statement, Sana had purportedly said that he had in June this year discussed his case with Telugu Desam Party's Rajya Sabha member C M Ramesh who, after speaking to the CBI Director, had assured him that he would not be summoned again.

"From June onwards, I was not called by the CBI. I was under the impression that investigation against me is complete," he is believed to have said. 
The CBI has now alleged that Kumar had fabricated this statement as an "afterthought...To corroborate the baseless allegations made by Asthana against CBI Director Alok Verma to the CVC (Central Vigilance Commissioner)", they claimed.

They said the agency was also looking into the alleged role of other members of the special investigation team headed by Asthana.

Asthana, who was booked by the agency on bribery charges in an unprecedented action, had complained against CBI Director Verma on August 24, 2018 that he had taken bribe of Rs 2 crore from Sana to give him relief in the matter.

The CBI has arrested its Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar in connection with bribery allegations involving its Special Director and second-in-command Rakesh Asthana, officials said Monday.

The CBI has arrested its Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar in connection with bribery allegations involving its Special Director and second-in-command Rakesh Asthana, officials said Monday. Kumar, who was earlier the investigation officer in a case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi, has been arrested on the allegations of forgery in recording the statement of Sathish Sana, who had alleged to have paid bribes to get relief in the case, they said. It is alleged that a statement of Sana was purportedly recorded on September 26, 2018 by the investigating team headed by Asthana, but it emerged in the CBI probe that on that given day the businessman was in Hyderabad, they claimed. In his statement, Sana had purportedly said that he had in June this year discussed his case with Telugu Desam Party's Rajya Sabha member C M Ramesh who, after speaking to the CBI Director, had assured him that he would not be summoned again. "From June onwards, I was not called by the CBI. I was under the impression that investigation against me is complete," he is believed to have said. The CBI has now alleged that Kumar had fabricated this statement as an "afterthought...To corroborate the baseless allegations made by Asthana against CBI Director Alok Verma to the CVC (Central Vigilance Commissioner)", they claimed. They said the agency was also looking into the alleged role of other members of the special investigation team headed by Asthana. Asthana, who was booked by the agency on bribery charges in an unprecedented action, had complained against CBI Director Verma on August 24, 2018 that he had taken bribe of Rs 2 crore from Sana to give him relief in the matter.

CBI arrests its own Deputy SP in bribery case involving its Special Director

China has dropped a years-long ban on rapeseed meal imports from India as the government seeks to diversify sources of protein used in animal feed, the customs administration said on Monday.

Rapeseed meal shipments from India can resume from Monday if they meet certain inspection and quarantine requirements, the General Administration of Customs said on its website.

The move is China's latest effort to reduce its reliance on US soybeans, as Beijing and Washington remain locked in an outright trade war.

China buys 60 per cent of the soybeans traded worldwide, processing them into soymeal to feed its vast pig herds. Soybeans are the top US agricultural export to China by value.

China was the top buyer of Indian rapeseed meal before the ban was imposed in 2011 over quality concerns. As Sino-US trade tensions escalated, India stepped up its lobbying for the restart of a trade worth $161 million in 2011.

Indian rapeseed meal exported to China must be from processing plants inspected and approved by the Export Inspection Council of India, and registered with China's General Administration of Customs, the Chinese body said on its website.

"This is a very good development that we were expecting. But still exporters need to register with Chinese authorities and it is a lengthy process," said B. V. Mehta, executive director of the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India, an industry body.

India has an ample surplus to export 500,000 tonnes of rapeseed meal to China every year, Mehta said.

Rapeseed futures in India jumped more than 1 per cent on Monday to 4,222 rupees ($57.48) per 100 kg.

Farmers in India have started planting rapeseed, the country's main winter-sown oilseed crop, a Mumbai-based trader of edible oils said.

"Farmers will expand the area under rapeseed if prices rise in the next few weeks due to Chinese demand," the trader said.

China imposed tariffs of 25 per cent on a list of American products including soybeans on July 6, in response to US duties on Chinese goods worth a similar amount.

The retaliative measures will likely tighten supplies of the oilseed in the fourth quarter, when US beans usually dominate the market, and push up prices of soymeal.

Beijing is mulling capping protein levels in pig and poultry feed, and seeking ways to import more alternative meals such as rapeseed meal and sunflower meal.

In July, Beijing removed tariffs on soybeans, soymeal and rapeseed from five Asian countries including India.

China has dropped a years-long ban on rapeseed meal imports from India as the government seeks to diversify sources of protein used in animal feed, the customs administration said on Monday.

China has dropped a years-long ban on rapeseed meal imports from India as the government seeks to diversify sources of protein used in animal feed, the customs administration said on Monday. Rapeseed meal shipments from India can resume from Monday if they meet certain inspection and quarantine requirements, the General Administration of Customs said on its website. The move is China's latest effort to reduce its reliance on US soybeans, as Beijing and Washington remain locked in an outright trade war. China buys 60 per cent of the soybeans traded worldwide, processing them into soymeal to feed its vast pig herds. Soybeans are the top US agricultural export to China by value. China was the top buyer of Indian rapeseed meal before the ban was imposed in 2011 over quality concerns. As Sino-US trade tensions escalated, India stepped up its lobbying for the restart of a trade worth $161 million in 2011. Indian rapeseed meal exported to China must be from processing plants inspected and approved by the Export Inspection Council of India, and registered with China's General Administration of Customs, the Chinese body said on its website. "This is a very good development that we were expecting. But still exporters need to register with Chinese authorities and it is a lengthy process," said B. V. Mehta, executive director of the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India, an industry body. India has an ample surplus to export 500,000 tonnes of rapeseed meal to China every year, Mehta said. Rapeseed futures in India jumped more than 1 per cent on Monday to 4,222 rupees ($57.48) per 100 kg. Farmers in India have started planting rapeseed, the country's main winter-sown oilseed crop, a Mumbai-based trader of edible oils said. "Farmers will expand the area under rapeseed if prices rise in the next few weeks due to Chinese demand," the trader said. China imposed tariffs of 25 per cent on a list of American products including soybeans on July 6, in response to US duties on Chinese goods worth a similar amount. The retaliative measures will likely tighten supplies of the oilseed in the fourth quarter, when US beans usually dominate the market, and push up prices of soymeal. Beijing is mulling capping protein levels in pig and poultry feed, and seeking ways to import more alternative meals such as rapeseed meal and sunflower meal. In July, Beijing removed tariffs on soybeans, soymeal and rapeseed from five Asian countries including India.

China drops ban on rapeseed meal from India

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”.

In his letters to the Cabinet Secretary and Central Vigilance Commission, Asthana had written about 10 cases of alleged corruption and irregularities against the CBI Director Alok Verma, levelling serious corruption charges in some of them.

One of the cases pertained to Sathish Sana, a businessman facing probe in a corruption case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi in which Asthana had alleged on August 24 that Sana paid Rs two crore to Verma to get relief in the case.

Asthana had also alleged that Verma delayed his team’s request to arrest Sana in the case.

The complaint was referred to Central Vigilance Commission by the Government which is looking into it.

Gujarat-cadre officer Asthana, currently number two in the CBI, has also cited instances of alleged irregularities and violation of rules and regulations against Verma.

In an unprecedented operation, the CBI registered an FIR against Asthana and his Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar, and two alleged middlemen Somesh Prasad and Manoj Prasad on the basis of a statement from Sana that bribe was paid to the middlemen to get relief in repeated questioning by the Asthana’s Special Investigation Unit.

Asthana had alleged that he had moved a file for the arrest of Sana on September 20, 2018, which was held by the CBI Director Alok Verma and was later referred to Director of Prosecution who demanded the evidence file.

He had alleged that it was his team which opened a LookOut Circular (LOC) against Sana who was stopped at immigration and prevented from fleeing the country.

In a late night statement, CBI spokesperson said allegations that Director CBI was not aware of LOC issued against Satish Sana is incorrect.

“DCBI had seen and ratified the proposal to issue LOC on May 21, 2018,” he said.

The spokesperson said contention that Director CBI made an attempt to stop Sana’s arrest is false and malicious.

“The allegation has been made to deflect the charge of receipt of bribe money by CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana and the other public servant named in the FIR,” he said.

The agency FIR is based on allegations levelled by Sana, who was facing CBI charges, before a magistrate under section 164 of the CrPC.

The statement attached in the FIR does not make any mention of any direct meeting or call between Asthana and Sana or any direct and confirmed interaction between the two.

“Sana was called to the CBI for examination/inquiry on multiple occasions in October/November 2017. During October/November 2017, there were four instances in which notices were given to Sana. In order to get relief from frequent notices, Shri Sana approached one Manoj Prasad in Dubai in the month of December 2017,” the spokesperson said.

He claimed Rs 2.95 crores were paid to the public servants through Manoj Prasad and Somesh Prasad and Sana was able to obtain relief in the on-going investigation in the Moin Qureshi case.

Subsequently, there were no notices issued to him till mid of February 2018, the spokesman said.

He said on February 19, 2018, again notice was issued to Sana who flew to Dubai and met Prasad.

“Subsequently, there were no notices issued till the end of May/early June 2018,” he said.

The spokesperson claimed that a LOC was issued to prevent Sana’s escape from the country on May 16 (by the team of Asthana which was probing the matter).

On the basis of LOC, Sana was stopped from going abroad by immigration office at Hyderabad on September 24 on the basis of the Look Out Circular.

“Subsequently, he was called by investigation officer on October 1, 2018, and again on October 3. Faced with continued harassment, Sana got his statement recorded with the Magistrate Court regarding the entire transaction,” he said.

Sana also contacted Prasad to get relief from appearance due on October 9, which was promised by Manoj. He had promised to obtain relief till 25th as requested by Sana, the spokesman said.

“This relief was obtained with the promise of payment of Rs 2 crore, of which, Rs 25 lakh was paid on October 10, 2018,” he said.

Manoj was caught on 16th October when he came to India to get the remaining Rs 1.75 crore, the spokesperson alleged.

“On 20th, Sathish Sana once again recorded his statement with the concerned court corroborating the facts he mentioned in the complaint,” he said.

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”.

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”. In his letters to the Cabinet Secretary and Central Vigilance Commission, Asthana had written about 10 cases of alleged corruption and irregularities against the CBI Director Alok Verma, levelling serious corruption charges in some of them. One of the cases pertained to Sathish Sana, a businessman facing probe in a corruption case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi in which Asthana had alleged on August 24 that Sana paid Rs two crore to Verma to get relief in the case. Asthana had also alleged that Verma delayed his team’s request to arrest Sana in the case. The complaint was referred to Central Vigilance Commission by the Government which is looking into it. Gujarat-cadre officer Asthana, currently number two in the CBI, has also cited instances of alleged irregularities and violation of rules and regulations against Verma. In an unprecedented operation, the CBI registered an FIR against Asthana and his Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar, and two alleged middlemen Somesh Prasad and Manoj Prasad on the basis of a statement from Sana that bribe was paid to the middlemen to get relief in repeated questioning by the Asthana’s Special Investigation Unit. Asthana had alleged that he had moved a file for the arrest of Sana on September 20, 2018, which was held by the CBI Director Alok Verma and was later referred to Director of Prosecution who demanded the evidence file. He had alleged that it was his team which opened a LookOut Circular (LOC) against Sana who was stopped at immigration and prevented from fleeing the country. In a late night statement, CBI spokesperson said allegations that Director CBI was not aware of LOC issued against Satish Sana is incorrect. “DCBI had seen and ratified the proposal to issue LOC on May 21, 2018,” he said. The spokesperson said contention that Director CBI made an attempt to stop Sana’s arrest is false and malicious. “The allegation has been made to deflect the charge of receipt of bribe money by CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana and the other public servant named in the FIR,” he said. The agency FIR is based on allegations levelled by Sana, who was facing CBI charges, before a magistrate under section 164 of the CrPC. The statement attached in the FIR does not make any mention of any direct meeting or call between Asthana and Sana or any direct and confirmed interaction between the two. “Sana was called to the CBI for examination/inquiry on multiple occasions in October/November 2017. During October/November 2017, there were four instances in which notices were given to Sana. In order to get relief from frequent notices, Shri Sana approached one Manoj Prasad in Dubai in the month of December 2017,” the spokesperson said. He claimed Rs 2.95 crores were paid to the public servants through Manoj Prasad and Somesh Prasad and Sana was able to obtain relief in the on-going investigation in the Moin Qureshi case. Subsequently, there were no notices issued to him till mid of February 2018, the spokesman said. He said on February 19, 2018, again notice was issued to Sana who flew to Dubai and met Prasad. “Subsequently, there were no notices issued till the end of May/early June 2018,” he said. The spokesperson claimed that a LOC was issued to prevent Sana’s escape from the country on May 16 (by the team of Asthana which was probing the matter). On the basis of LOC, Sana was stopped from going abroad by immigration office at Hyderabad on September 24 on the basis of the Look Out Circular. “Subsequently, he was called by investigation officer on October 1, 2018, and again on October 3. Faced with continued harassment, Sana got his statement recorded with the Magistrate Court regarding the entire transaction,” he said. Sana also contacted Prasad to get relief from appearance due on October 9, which was promised by Manoj. He had promised to obtain relief till 25th as requested by Sana, the spokesman said. “This relief was obtained with the promise of payment of Rs 2 crore, of which, Rs 25 lakh was paid on October 10, 2018,” he said. Manoj was caught on 16th October when he came to India to get the remaining Rs 1.75 crore, the spokesperson alleged. “On 20th, Sathish Sana once again recorded his statement with the concerned court corroborating the facts he mentioned in the complaint,” he said.

CBI terms allegations against its director Alok Verma as ‘false and malicious’

Priest of the Jalandhar Diocese Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, who had given a statement against Bishop Franco Mulakkal to the Kerala police was found dead on Monday morning in Dasuya area of Hoshiarpur district, according to TV reports.&nbsp;

Father Kuriakose Kattuthara&nbsp;was 62 years old. He has been vociferously speaking against Bishop Franco Mulakkal.

"It was found that he vomited over the bed. Blood pressure tablets were found at the spot. The investigation is underway. In our notice, no security was provided to him. He used to live at St&nbsp;Paul's Church in Dasuya. He was found dead there. He was 62. The matter will be investigated. I have been informed that no injuries have been found," said AR Sharma, DSP Dasuya.

Earlier, Father Kuriakose had alleged that he was always undermined by chapel authorities for his support to the nun who has accused the bishop of rape.

According to media reports, Kuriakose's family and a group of priests have alleged conspiracy in the death.&nbsp;

Franco Mulakkal, the senior Catholic priest accused of repeatedly raping a nun, had been granted bail by the Kerala High Court over three weeks after he was arrested.

In September, Mulakkal — head of the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab — was arrested in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case where he was accused of repeatedly raping a senior nun between 2014 to 2016.

The nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions.

The nun also said she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Priest of the Jalandhar Diocese Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, who had given a statement against Bishop Franco Mulakkal to the Kerala police was found dead on Monday morning in Dasuya area of Hoshiarpur district, according to TV reports.

Priest of the Jalandhar Diocese Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, who had given a statement against Bishop Franco Mulakkal to the Kerala police was found dead on Monday morning in Dasuya area of Hoshiarpur district, according to TV reports. Father Kuriakose Kattuthara was 62 years old. He has been vociferously speaking against Bishop Franco Mulakkal. "It was found that he vomited over the bed. Blood pressure tablets were found at the spot. The investigation is underway. In our notice, no security was provided to him. He used to live at St Paul's Church in Dasuya. He was found dead there. He was 62. The matter will be investigated. I have been informed that no injuries have been found," said AR Sharma, DSP Dasuya. Earlier, Father Kuriakose had alleged that he was always undermined by chapel authorities for his support to the nun who has accused the bishop of rape. According to media reports, Kuriakose's family and a group of priests have alleged conspiracy in the death. Franco Mulakkal, the senior Catholic priest accused of repeatedly raping a nun, had been granted bail by the Kerala High Court over three weeks after he was arrested. In September, Mulakkal — head of the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab — was arrested in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case where he was accused of repeatedly raping a senior nun between 2014 to 2016. The nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions. The nun also said she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala nun rape: Priest who gave statement against Bishop Franco found dead

Normal life was disrupted in the Kashmir Valley Monday due to a strike called by separatists over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district.

Shops, private offices, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut here in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

They said public transport was off the roads while private cars were seen plying in few areas of the city.

The strike affected attendance in government offices and banks, the officials said.

They said while there were no restrictions anywhere in the city, there was a heavy deployment of security forces at several places here as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

The officials said reports of the shutdown were received from other district headquarters of the valley as well.

Separatists Sunday called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Laroo area of Kulgam district of south Kashmir.

The strike was called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Three militants were killed Sunday in the encounter, while seven civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there.

The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), a Kashmiri Pandit organisation – Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) – and All Kashmir Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Association have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have postponed examinations scheduled for Monday.

Normal life was disrupted in the Kashmir Valley Monday due to a strike called by separatists over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district.

Normal life was disrupted in the Kashmir Valley Monday due to a strike called by separatists over the death of seven civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district. Shops, private offices, fuel stations and other business establishments were shut here in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. They said public transport was off the roads while private cars were seen plying in few areas of the city. The strike affected attendance in government offices and banks, the officials said. They said while there were no restrictions anywhere in the city, there was a heavy deployment of security forces at several places here as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. The officials said reports of the shutdown were received from other district headquarters of the valley as well. Separatists Sunday called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Laroo area of Kulgam district of south Kashmir. The strike was called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL). Three militants were killed Sunday in the encounter, while seven civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there. The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), a Kashmiri Pandit organisation – Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) – and All Kashmir Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Association have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have postponed examinations scheduled for Monday.

Separatist-sponsored strike disrupts normal life in Kashmir valley

In a bid to actualise the dream of a “nirmal” and “aviral” Ganga, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said Sunday the government is looking to complete about 200 projects for ghats and crematoria by March 2019. Also, the Centre is taking various measures to ensure ecological flow or the minimum quantity of water at different stretches of the Ganga, he said. “A total of 227 projects have been taken up for the Ganga for sewage infrastructure, ghats and crematoria, river-front development, river-surface cleaning and biodiversity conservation, among others, at a cost of Rs 22,374 crore,” Gadkari, who holds Ganga rejuvenation and water resources portfolio among others, told PTI in an interview.

He further said that making the Ganga “nirmal” (cleaner) and “aviral” (free-flowing) is his dream and his ministries were taking a slew of steps in this direction. Earlier this month, the government had mandated the minimum ecological flow in the river Ganga and its tributaries required to be maintained at different points in different areas around the year with the aim of ensuring water quality and environmentally sustainable rejuvenation. The directive also requires hydropower projects along the river to modify their operations in order to comply with the notification.

“The government plans to complete 151 ghats and 54 crematoria projects by March 2019,” Gadkari, who is also in-charge of road transport and highways ministry, said. Besides monitoring water quality at 138 locations, each at the interval of 20 km, projects have been taken up for 24×7 cleaning of ghats at Varanasi, Bithoor, Kanpur, Allahabad, Mathura, Vrindavan and Haridwar to avoid solid waste disposals in the river, he said. In addition, under the bio-diversity conservation plans, several projects are being implemented for conservation and restoration of indigenous and aquatic species of the Ganga like the Gangetic dolphin, river otters, turtles and aquatic birds, the minister added.

The gazette notification on October 10 with regard to the ecological flow of the Ganga water specifies flow requirements at various stretches including from origins in the glaciers to Haridwar besides the main stretch from Haridwar in Uttarakhand to Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. Gadkari said: “With the implementation of these specifications, the river will not be dry as these specifications were a result of scientific study.” He said the directive on ecological flow for the river would result in an unhindered and continuous flow of the river water as it will ensure at least the minimum required the environmental flow of water even after its stream gets diverted by projects.

The minister said the notification also provides for direct release of additional water in the river Ganga to meet special demand as and when required. “The concerned central and state authorities shall implement demand-side management plans to reduce water withdrawal from the river Ganga by adopting good and scientific practices such as the efficient method of irrigation, reuse and recycle of water including monitoring and regulation of groundwater withdrawals for various purposes,” the notification mentioned.

There are about 1,100 industries and 4,500 villages along the Ganga. The minister last month said that cleaning works would start getting remarkably noticeable in another six months, and had claimed “transforming the river that was the distinct cultural identity of the nation was close to his heart”.

Enunciating the work for sewage infrastructure, the minister had said: “Massive initiatives have resulted in rich dividends and we have successfully created the capacity to treat 1,700 MLD sewage.” The cities located by the side of the river produce 2,950 MLD sewage and if steps to purify the water were not taken this in another 15 years will reach 3,600 MLD. He said there were 97 cities, which were polluting the river with 10 including Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, Bhagalpur and Kolkata contributing 65 per cent of the pollution in the river.

Besides, Gadkari has said 48 new cities have been identified on either side of the Ganga and its tributaries for projects to clean the river. The government had in May 2015 approved Rs 20,000 crore under its ambitious ‘Namami Gange’ – integrated Ganga integrated Ganga conservation mission – programme for five years. The minister said massive preparations were also on for commencement of cargo operations in Ganga.

In a bid to actualise the dream of a “nirmal” and “aviral” Ganga, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said Sunday the government is looking to complete about 200 projects for ghats and crematoria by March 2019.

In a bid to actualise the dream of a “nirmal” and “aviral” Ganga, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said Sunday the government is looking to complete about 200 projects for ghats and crematoria by March 2019. Also, the Centre is taking various measures to ensure ecological flow or the minimum quantity of water at different stretches of the Ganga, he said. “A total of 227 projects have been taken up for the Ganga for sewage infrastructure, ghats and crematoria, river-front development, river-surface cleaning and biodiversity conservation, among others, at a cost of Rs 22,374 crore,” Gadkari, who holds Ganga rejuvenation and water resources portfolio among others, told PTI in an interview. He further said that making the Ganga “nirmal” (cleaner) and “aviral” (free-flowing) is his dream and his ministries were taking a slew of steps in this direction. Earlier this month, the government had mandated the minimum ecological flow in the river Ganga and its tributaries required to be maintained at different points in different areas around the year with the aim of ensuring water quality and environmentally sustainable rejuvenation. The directive also requires hydropower projects along the river to modify their operations in order to comply with the notification. “The government plans to complete 151 ghats and 54 crematoria projects by March 2019,” Gadkari, who is also in-charge of road transport and highways ministry, said. Besides monitoring water quality at 138 locations, each at the interval of 20 km, projects have been taken up for 24×7 cleaning of ghats at Varanasi, Bithoor, Kanpur, Allahabad, Mathura, Vrindavan and Haridwar to avoid solid waste disposals in the river, he said. In addition, under the bio-diversity conservation plans, several projects are being implemented for conservation and restoration of indigenous and aquatic species of the Ganga like the Gangetic dolphin, river otters, turtles and aquatic birds, the minister added. The gazette notification on October 10 with regard to the ecological flow of the Ganga water specifies flow requirements at various stretches including from origins in the glaciers to Haridwar besides the main stretch from Haridwar in Uttarakhand to Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. Gadkari said: “With the implementation of these specifications, the river will not be dry as these specifications were a result of scientific study.” He said the directive on ecological flow for the river would result in an unhindered and continuous flow of the river water as it will ensure at least the minimum required the environmental flow of water even after its stream gets diverted by projects. The minister said the notification also provides for direct release of additional water in the river Ganga to meet special demand as and when required. “The concerned central and state authorities shall implement demand-side management plans to reduce water withdrawal from the river Ganga by adopting good and scientific practices such as the efficient method of irrigation, reuse and recycle of water including monitoring and regulation of groundwater withdrawals for various purposes,” the notification mentioned. There are about 1,100 industries and 4,500 villages along the Ganga. The minister last month said that cleaning works would start getting remarkably noticeable in another six months, and had claimed “transforming the river that was the distinct cultural identity of the nation was close to his heart”. Enunciating the work for sewage infrastructure, the minister had said: “Massive initiatives have resulted in rich dividends and we have successfully created the capacity to treat 1,700 MLD sewage.” The cities located by the side of the river produce 2,950 MLD sewage and if steps to purify the water were not taken this in another 15 years will reach 3,600 MLD. He said there were 97 cities, which were polluting the river with 10 including Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, Bhagalpur and Kolkata contributing 65 per cent of the pollution in the river. Besides, Gadkari has said 48 new cities have been identified on either side of the Ganga and its tributaries for projects to clean the river. The government had in May 2015 approved Rs 20,000 crore under its ambitious ‘Namami Gange’ – integrated Ganga integrated Ganga conservation mission – programme for five years. The minister said massive preparations were also on for commencement of cargo operations in Ganga.

Govt plans to finish 200 projects for Ganga ghats by March 2019: Nitin Gadkari

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. &nbsp;

The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said.

''The encounter concluded just now and I have been told that three terrorists were neutralised in it. The operation is being wound up,'' DGP Dilbag Singh said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Harmeet Singh, SSP, Kulgam said that the exchange with the terrorists started yesterday.&nbsp;

''The terrorists are unidentified so far and are inside a house now. Further details will be given after the encounter concludes,'' Singh said earlier.

The encounter broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district.

A cordon and search operation was launched in the Laroo area in south Kashmir in the morning following specific information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants fired on them, and an encounter broke out.

Meanwhile, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians immediately after the encounter. According to police, the civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request from Army personnel not to do so as a search was underway.&nbsp;

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Civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request not to visit, as a thorough search was underway. After forces withdrew, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians: J&amp;K Police on Kulgam encounter.
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Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said.

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said. ''The encounter concluded just now and I have been told that three terrorists were neutralised in it. The operation is being wound up,'' DGP Dilbag Singh said. Earlier, Harmeet Singh, SSP, Kulgam said that the exchange with the terrorists started yesterday. ''The terrorists are unidentified so far and are inside a house now. Further details will be given after the encounter concludes,'' Singh said earlier. The encounter broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. A cordon and search operation was launched in the Laroo area in south Kashmir in the morning following specific information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants fired on them, and an encounter broke out. Meanwhile, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians immediately after the encounter. According to police, the civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request from Army personnel not to do so as a search was underway. Civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request not to visit, as a thorough search was underway. After forces withdrew, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians: J&K Police on Kulgam encounter. — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2018 ×

Jammu and Kashmir: 3 terrorists killed in encounter

Harpal Singh struck a match and watched his fields burn, the acrid smoke drifting toward New Delhi where a lethal smog cocktail is once again intensifying over the world's most polluted megacity.

Every November, air pollution in north India reaches levels unimaginable in most parts of the world, forcing schools shut and filling hospital wards with wheezing patients.

As winter descends, cooler air traps car fumes, factory emissions and construction dust close to the ground, fomenting a toxic brew of harmful pollutants that regularly exceed 30 times the World Health Organization safe limit.

The scourge is compounded as farmers like Singh -- rushing to ready their fields for next season's wheat crop -- use fire to quickly and cheaply clear their land.

He knows slash-and-burn farming is illegal and that doing so, year after year, helps sicken millions in Delhi and beyond.

But local authorities appear powerless to stop it and -- looming health crisis or not in Delhi -- the narrow window to plant for the winter harvest is closing.

"We have no other choice but to burn the straw," Singh told AFP in Ishargarh, a village in Haryana, about 120 km northwest of Delhi.

"We know the smoke pollutes the air. But it is the cheapest and easiest way to get rid of the (crop) residue," the 65-year-old farmer told AFP, as burning straw crackled and popped behind him.

Deaf Ears

This smoke is already reaching Delhi, bringing a familiar sepia haze and a bad omen for officials wanting to avoid a third straight year of record-setting smog.

Deterrents, such as fines of up to $200 for farmers flouting the law, appear to have limited effect.

Satellite imagery shows countless spot fires already burning in Haryana and Punjab.

S Narayanan, from Haryana's State Pollution Control Board, said Rs. 3 lakh in fines had been issued and fires were down 40 percent in some areas.

"But our intention is not only to take punitive action, but to educate the farmers," he told AFP.

Farmers represent powerful voting blocs in rural states like Haryana and Punjab, and local authorities are reluctant to upset them.

Efforts to persuade farmers, many living below the poverty line, to adopt alternative methods of land clearance have fallen on deaf ears.

Many have balked at suggestions of buying "Happy Seeders" -- expensive machines which according to media reports cost at least Rs. 1.5 lakh - that sow wheat without needing to dispose of the leftover straw.&nbsp;

The government is offering a subsidy of 50 percent to individuals and 80 percent to groups of farmers to encourage them to use the machines.

"We are already in debt... and we can't afford even the subsidised machines," said Karnail Singh, a 60-year-old farmer. He suggested the government pay farmers by the acre not to burn their fields.

Television ads, social media campaigns and meetings at the village level have also had limited success.&nbsp;

Powerful farmers unions say many of the government's ideas -- such as encouraging farmers to sell straw to factories -- overlook extra costs imposed on poor rural families.

"Who will bear the cost of transporting the straw? Farmers are also concerned about the pollution, but they are helpless," said Sucha Singh from Bhartiya Kisan Union, a farmers' rights group.

Gas Chamber

Many farmers feel scapegoated for the modern-day problems of the country's fast-growing cities.

The WHO in May listed 14 Indian cities in the world's top 15 with the dirtiest air, with Delhi dubbed the most polluted major centre.

"Farmers are blamed for the pollution, but nobody talks about the factories and cars and buses which are the main culprits," Singh said.

Others are more defiant.

"We are always the soft targets. We will continue to burn stubble. Let the government do what it can," said another farmer Harbans Singh.

With smoke on the horizon, the Delhi government is squaring off for a fight with its neighbours.

It recently closed its last coal-fired power plant but Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal warned of another smog crisis if Punjab and Haryana failed to take "concrete steps" on crop fires.

"The entire region including Delhi will again become (a) gas chamber," he said on October 12.

"People will again face difficulty in breathing. This is criminal."

Harpal Singh struck a match and watched his fields burn, the acrid smoke drifting toward New Delhi where a lethal smog cocktail is once again intensifying over the world's most polluted megacity.

Harpal Singh struck a match and watched his fields burn, the acrid smoke drifting toward New Delhi where a lethal smog cocktail is once again intensifying over the world's most polluted megacity. Every November, air pollution in north India reaches levels unimaginable in most parts of the world, forcing schools shut and filling hospital wards with wheezing patients. As winter descends, cooler air traps car fumes, factory emissions and construction dust close to the ground, fomenting a toxic brew of harmful pollutants that regularly exceed 30 times the World Health Organization safe limit. The scourge is compounded as farmers like Singh -- rushing to ready their fields for next season's wheat crop -- use fire to quickly and cheaply clear their land. He knows slash-and-burn farming is illegal and that doing so, year after year, helps sicken millions in Delhi and beyond. But local authorities appear powerless to stop it and -- looming health crisis or not in Delhi -- the narrow window to plant for the winter harvest is closing. "We have no other choice but to burn the straw," Singh told AFP in Ishargarh, a village in Haryana, about 120 km northwest of Delhi. "We know the smoke pollutes the air. But it is the cheapest and easiest way to get rid of the (crop) residue," the 65-year-old farmer told AFP, as burning straw crackled and popped behind him. Deaf Ears This smoke is already reaching Delhi, bringing a familiar sepia haze and a bad omen for officials wanting to avoid a third straight year of record-setting smog. Deterrents, such as fines of up to $200 for farmers flouting the law, appear to have limited effect. Satellite imagery shows countless spot fires already burning in Haryana and Punjab. S Narayanan, from Haryana's State Pollution Control Board, said Rs. 3 lakh in fines had been issued and fires were down 40 percent in some areas. "But our intention is not only to take punitive action, but to educate the farmers," he told AFP. Farmers represent powerful voting blocs in rural states like Haryana and Punjab, and local authorities are reluctant to upset them. Efforts to persuade farmers, many living below the poverty line, to adopt alternative methods of land clearance have fallen on deaf ears. Many have balked at suggestions of buying "Happy Seeders" -- expensive machines which according to media reports cost at least Rs. 1.5 lakh - that sow wheat without needing to dispose of the leftover straw. The government is offering a subsidy of 50 percent to individuals and 80 percent to groups of farmers to encourage them to use the machines. "We are already in debt... and we can't afford even the subsidised machines," said Karnail Singh, a 60-year-old farmer. He suggested the government pay farmers by the acre not to burn their fields. Television ads, social media campaigns and meetings at the village level have also had limited success. Powerful farmers unions say many of the government's ideas -- such as encouraging farmers to sell straw to factories -- overlook extra costs imposed on poor rural families. "Who will bear the cost of transporting the straw? Farmers are also concerned about the pollution, but they are helpless," said Sucha Singh from Bhartiya Kisan Union, a farmers' rights group. Gas Chamber Many farmers feel scapegoated for the modern-day problems of the country's fast-growing cities. The WHO in May listed 14 Indian cities in the world's top 15 with the dirtiest air, with Delhi dubbed the most polluted major centre. "Farmers are blamed for the pollution, but nobody talks about the factories and cars and buses which are the main culprits," Singh said. Others are more defiant. "We are always the soft targets. We will continue to burn stubble. Let the government do what it can," said another farmer Harbans Singh. With smoke on the horizon, the Delhi government is squaring off for a fight with its neighbours. It recently closed its last coal-fired power plant but Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal warned of another smog crisis if Punjab and Haryana failed to take "concrete steps" on crop fires. "The entire region including Delhi will again become (a) gas chamber," he said on October 12. "People will again face difficulty in breathing. This is criminal."

Delhi holds breath as burning farms herald pollution season

Six women were prevented from the entering the Sabarimala temple Sunday by a large number of devotees of Lord Ayyappa as the stand-off over entry of women of menstrual age into the famous hill shrine continued for the fifth day.

Amid high drama, the devotees, up in arms against implementation of the Supreme Court order lifting ban on entry of women in 10-50 age group, chanting Ayyappa mantras blocked the six, all Telugu-speaking women, from reaching the famed shrine.

Sunday is the fifth day since the temple gates were opened for the monthly puja after the apex court last month lifted the centuries-old ban.

A heavy flow of pilgrims was witnessed at the temple despite intermittent downpour lashing the hills and Pamba.

Though attempts had been made by some young women, including an activist, to enter the temple of the 'Naishtik Brahmachari', the eternally celibate deity, since Wednesday, the devotees backed by priests have stood their ground, saying they would not allow the tradition to be breached.

By all available indications, not a single woman in the age group of 10 and 50 has so far reached the temple which will close Monday at the end of the monthly puja.

According to police sources here, 12 women in the 10-50 age group have so far been prevented from offering worship at the temple, since it opened for the monthly pooja.

BJP demanded a special assembly session to seek the Centre's intervention, while Congress sought an ordinance by the NDA government.

The Pandalam royal family, the traditional custodian of the Sabarimala temple, alleged the CPI(M)-led LDF government was trying to destroy sanctity of the shrine of the "Naishtik Brahmachari" by taking women in the menstrual age group there.

On Sunday, a 47-year old woman reached up to the 'Nadappandhal' close to the sanctum sanctorum, but was prevented by the devotees chanting "Swamiye Saranam Ayyapa" while five others were stopped enroute to the hills.

The woman, who complained of uneasiness, was brought to a hospital here by the police.

A elderly woman devotee who was present at the spot said as the identity card of the woman showed she was born in 1971 and had not attained the 'permissible age", the other devotees started chanting Sarana mantra.

Earlier, the protesters prevented two women, in their 40s, at the foothills itself. The women were accompanied by their relatives.

The police, who took the women to the safety, said the two informed them that they came to Sabarimala without knowing the customs of the temple.

After the women were brought Nilackal, the base camp, they gave in writing to the police that they did not want to break the centuries-old custom of the temple, sources said.

Amid mounting protest in the state against the Supreme Court order, BJP Sunday urged the Kerala government to convene a session of the assembly and pass a resolution seeking the centre's intervention to overcome the crisis.

BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai claimed even CPI(M) members in the state were opposing the bid to break the custom of the ancient shrine, which draws lakhs of devotees from across the country, especially from southern states.

A small group of BJP leaders was arrested for violating ban orders in force under Section 144 of the CrPC at Nilackal, a key entry point to Sabarimala.

Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Ramesh Chennithala of Congress urged the Centre to bring an ordinance to overcome the Supreme Court verdict.

CPI(M) politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai claimed the devotees opposing the apex court verdict were in a minority and they did not have the support of the entire Kerala society.

He supported the implementation of the court verdict on Sabarimala.

Meanwhile, the Sabarimala Karma Samithi intensified its agitation against the CPI(M)-led government's "hasty" move to implement the court order.

Thousands of people participated in the "namajapa yatra" (protest march chanting Ayyappa mantra) to police stations across the southern state against alleged police action on the samithi activists near Sabarimala last week.

Hundreds of women participated in a protest march held in Erumeli, a key pilgrim centre connected with Sabarimala.

State police chief Loknath Behera said the police will conduct a review of the alleged police lapses while handling the issues related to Sabarimala after the doors of the shrine close on Monday.

He said the Sabarimala annual pilgrim season beginning next month was going to be a challenging one for them.

A Dalit woman activist, who was planning to visit the Sabarimala shrine Saturday, had put her plans on hold and left Pamba following heavy rain.

In another development, activist Rehana Fathima, who had made an attempt to enter the temple on Friday, has been expelled from the Muslim community for "hurting the sentiments of lakhs of Hindu devotees", the Kerala Muslim Jama'ath Council said.

The state has been witnessing massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the government decided to implement the apex court order.

Six women were prevented from the entering the Sabarimala temple Sunday by a large number of devotees of Lord Ayyappa as the stand-off over entry of women of menstrual age into the famous hill shrine continued for the fifth day.

Six women were prevented from the entering the Sabarimala temple Sunday by a large number of devotees of Lord Ayyappa as the stand-off over entry of women of menstrual age into the famous hill shrine continued for the fifth day. Amid high drama, the devotees, up in arms against implementation of the Supreme Court order lifting ban on entry of women in 10-50 age group, chanting Ayyappa mantras blocked the six, all Telugu-speaking women, from reaching the famed shrine. Sunday is the fifth day since the temple gates were opened for the monthly puja after the apex court last month lifted the centuries-old ban. A heavy flow of pilgrims was witnessed at the temple despite intermittent downpour lashing the hills and Pamba. Though attempts had been made by some young women, including an activist, to enter the temple of the 'Naishtik Brahmachari', the eternally celibate deity, since Wednesday, the devotees backed by priests have stood their ground, saying they would not allow the tradition to be breached. By all available indications, not a single woman in the age group of 10 and 50 has so far reached the temple which will close Monday at the end of the monthly puja. According to police sources here, 12 women in the 10-50 age group have so far been prevented from offering worship at the temple, since it opened for the monthly pooja. BJP demanded a special assembly session to seek the Centre's intervention, while Congress sought an ordinance by the NDA government. The Pandalam royal family, the traditional custodian of the Sabarimala temple, alleged the CPI(M)-led LDF government was trying to destroy sanctity of the shrine of the "Naishtik Brahmachari" by taking women in the menstrual age group there. On Sunday, a 47-year old woman reached up to the 'Nadappandhal' close to the sanctum sanctorum, but was prevented by the devotees chanting "Swamiye Saranam Ayyapa" while five others were stopped enroute to the hills. The woman, who complained of uneasiness, was brought to a hospital here by the police. A elderly woman devotee who was present at the spot said as the identity card of the woman showed she was born in 1971 and had not attained the 'permissible age", the other devotees started chanting Sarana mantra. Earlier, the protesters prevented two women, in their 40s, at the foothills itself. The women were accompanied by their relatives. The police, who took the women to the safety, said the two informed them that they came to Sabarimala without knowing the customs of the temple. After the women were brought Nilackal, the base camp, they gave in writing to the police that they did not want to break the centuries-old custom of the temple, sources said. Amid mounting protest in the state against the Supreme Court order, BJP Sunday urged the Kerala government to convene a session of the assembly and pass a resolution seeking the centre's intervention to overcome the crisis. BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai claimed even CPI(M) members in the state were opposing the bid to break the custom of the ancient shrine, which draws lakhs of devotees from across the country, especially from southern states. A small group of BJP leaders was arrested for violating ban orders in force under Section 144 of the CrPC at Nilackal, a key entry point to Sabarimala. Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Ramesh Chennithala of Congress urged the Centre to bring an ordinance to overcome the Supreme Court verdict. CPI(M) politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai claimed the devotees opposing the apex court verdict were in a minority and they did not have the support of the entire Kerala society. He supported the implementation of the court verdict on Sabarimala. Meanwhile, the Sabarimala Karma Samithi intensified its agitation against the CPI(M)-led government's "hasty" move to implement the court order. Thousands of people participated in the "namajapa yatra" (protest march chanting Ayyappa mantra) to police stations across the southern state against alleged police action on the samithi activists near Sabarimala last week. Hundreds of women participated in a protest march held in Erumeli, a key pilgrim centre connected with Sabarimala. State police chief Loknath Behera said the police will conduct a review of the alleged police lapses while handling the issues related to Sabarimala after the doors of the shrine close on Monday. He said the Sabarimala annual pilgrim season beginning next month was going to be a challenging one for them. A Dalit woman activist, who was planning to visit the Sabarimala shrine Saturday, had put her plans on hold and left Pamba following heavy rain. In another development, activist Rehana Fathima, who had made an attempt to enter the temple on Friday, has been expelled from the Muslim community for "hurting the sentiments of lakhs of Hindu devotees", the Kerala Muslim Jama'ath Council said. The state has been witnessing massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the government decided to implement the apex court order.

On Day 5, six women stopped from reaching Sabarimala

In a bid to reach out to masses in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the BJP Sunday launched 'Samriddh (Prosperous) Madhya Pradesh' campaign from here by flagging off 50 hi-tech vehicles designed as chariots.

The mass outreach programme is aimed at preparing 'Drishti Patra' or a vision document for the next month's polls on the basis of suggestions received from the common people, a party leader said.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar flagged off the chariots, fitted with LED screens, sound systems and other equipment, from the state BJP headquarters in the state capital.

The chariots will comb all the 230 assembly constituencies in the next 15 days during which they would travel to at least 20 places in every segment.

The BJP has also released a phone number on which the suggestions can be forwarded either through WhatsApp, SMSes or by making a phone call.

Speaking at the launch function, Chouhan said his government had modelled various welfare schemes on the basis of feedback received from the common people.

"Because of this, we have decided to prepare a roadmap of a prosperous Madhya Pradesh on the basis of suggestions of the 7.5-crore people of the state," he said.

The chief minister attacked the Congress for its "misrule" of the past.

"During the rule of the Congress (before 2013), people were forced to take temporary roads in their farmland for travelling instead of the main roads which were almost non-existent then. People had to spend nights on roads during summer season due to power cuts," he said.

The CM also accused the Congress of pushing Madhya Pradesh into poverty through its policies.

"Every sector, including the education and irrigation, was in a bad shape at that time because of the Congress which had pushed this state into BIMARU category.

"We (the BJP government) lifted Madhya Pradesh from that category and turned it into a 'Sucharu' (smoothly run) and viksit (developed) state," he said.

BIMARU is an acronym for states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh grouped into the category in the past for their poor economic condition.

Chouhan said Madhya Pradesh will become a prosperous state in the next five years, if the BJP gets the popular mandate for another term.

Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28. Counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Meanwhile, the state Congress unit has sought the Election Commission's intervention to stop the "Samriddha Madhya Pradesh Abhiyan", which the party said is a violation of model code of conduct.

"This is time for the BJP to give an account of its work. Instead of doing that, they are luring the people with false promises and are misleading them by seeking suggestions and ideas, which is prohibited under the poll code. We have filed a complaint with the EC," said state Congress spokesman Narendra Saluja.

Leader of Opposition in the state Legislative Assembly Ajay Singh also dismissed the campaign as a gimmick.

"The chief minister is trying to sell false dreams to the people fearing defeat in polls, which is imminent. This campaign is aimed at deceiving the common people," Singh alleged.

Meanwhile, in an embarrassment to the BJP, a portrait of former prime minister and BJP patriarch (late) Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not put up at the launch function held at its headquarters.

When asked about this, BJP senior leader Prabhat Jha tried to play down the incident and said, "Vajpayee ji is in the heart of every person of the state. So, this incident should not be misinterpreted"

In a bid to reach out to masses in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the BJP Sunday launched 'Samriddh (Prosperous) Madhya Pradesh' campaign from here by flagging off 50 hi-tech vehicles designed as chariots.

In a bid to reach out to masses in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the BJP Sunday launched 'Samriddh (Prosperous) Madhya Pradesh' campaign from here by flagging off 50 hi-tech vehicles designed as chariots. The mass outreach programme is aimed at preparing 'Drishti Patra' or a vision document for the next month's polls on the basis of suggestions received from the common people, a party leader said. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar flagged off the chariots, fitted with LED screens, sound systems and other equipment, from the state BJP headquarters in the state capital. The chariots will comb all the 230 assembly constituencies in the next 15 days during which they would travel to at least 20 places in every segment. The BJP has also released a phone number on which the suggestions can be forwarded either through WhatsApp, SMSes or by making a phone call. Speaking at the launch function, Chouhan said his government had modelled various welfare schemes on the basis of feedback received from the common people. "Because of this, we have decided to prepare a roadmap of a prosperous Madhya Pradesh on the basis of suggestions of the 7.5-crore people of the state," he said. The chief minister attacked the Congress for its "misrule" of the past. "During the rule of the Congress (before 2013), people were forced to take temporary roads in their farmland for travelling instead of the main roads which were almost non-existent then. People had to spend nights on roads during summer season due to power cuts," he said. The CM also accused the Congress of pushing Madhya Pradesh into poverty through its policies. "Every sector, including the education and irrigation, was in a bad shape at that time because of the Congress which had pushed this state into BIMARU category. "We (the BJP government) lifted Madhya Pradesh from that category and turned it into a 'Sucharu' (smoothly run) and viksit (developed) state," he said. BIMARU is an acronym for states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh grouped into the category in the past for their poor economic condition. Chouhan said Madhya Pradesh will become a prosperous state in the next five years, if the BJP gets the popular mandate for another term. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28. Counting of votes will take place on December 11. Meanwhile, the state Congress unit has sought the Election Commission's intervention to stop the "Samriddha Madhya Pradesh Abhiyan", which the party said is a violation of model code of conduct. "This is time for the BJP to give an account of its work. Instead of doing that, they are luring the people with false promises and are misleading them by seeking suggestions and ideas, which is prohibited under the poll code. We have filed a complaint with the EC," said state Congress spokesman Narendra Saluja. Leader of Opposition in the state Legislative Assembly Ajay Singh also dismissed the campaign as a gimmick. "The chief minister is trying to sell false dreams to the people fearing defeat in polls, which is imminent. This campaign is aimed at deceiving the common people," Singh alleged. Meanwhile, in an embarrassment to the BJP, a portrait of former prime minister and BJP patriarch (late) Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not put up at the launch function held at its headquarters. When asked about this, BJP senior leader Prabhat Jha tried to play down the incident and said, "Vajpayee ji is in the heart of every person of the state. So, this incident should not be misinterpreted"

Madhya Pradesh polls: BJP launches 'Prosperous MP' campaign

Days after Uttar Pradesh government changed Allahabad's name to Pryagraj, the ruling BJP government in Himachal Pradesh is now reportedly considering a proposal to rename Shimla as Shymala, a move that can stir another controversy in the country.

According to a report by PTI, some right-wing Hindu groups have launched a campaign demanding the name to be changed to Shyamla to which the state health minister has reportedly responded saying, "If the people want Shimla to be rechristened as Shyamala, the proposal can be considered."

"Many cities in different parts of the country used to have historic names but they were changed. So, there would not be any harm in reverting to those names. If the people want Shimla to be rechristened as Shyamala, the proposal can be considered," state health minister Vipin Singh Parmar was quoted as saying by PTI.

Notably, social media has been abuzz with discussions on the topic for the last few days.

The debate has left people divided with some favouring the name change and others opposing it saying that Shimla is a historical city and if one changes its name then it will lose its character.&nbsp;

Senior&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh Congress leader Harbhajan Singh Bhajji while opposing the proposal&nbsp;said, "What's wrong with the name Shimla? Will the renaming ensure development? The state government should focus on ensuring that the state progresses instead of indulging in such frivolous antics," PTI reported.

According to Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary Aman Puri, the popular holiday retreat was originally called Shyamala but as the Britishers found it tough to pronounce, they renamed it Simla which later became Shimla.

Also known as the queen of hills, Shimla was declared the summer capital of British India in 1864. It remained that way till India got independence in 1947.

British officer Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy played a pivotal role in transforming Shimla as he built the first house here in 1822 aptly calling it-- Kennedy House.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Days after Uttar Pradesh government changed Allahabad's name to Pryagraj, the ruling BJP government in Himachal Pradesh is now reportedly considering a proposal to rename Shimla as Shymala, a move that can stir another controversy in the country.

Days after Uttar Pradesh government changed Allahabad's name to Pryagraj, the ruling BJP government in Himachal Pradesh is now reportedly considering a proposal to rename Shimla as Shymala, a move that can stir another controversy in the country. According to a report by PTI, some right-wing Hindu groups have launched a campaign demanding the name to be changed to Shyamla to which the state health minister has reportedly responded saying, "If the people want Shimla to be rechristened as Shyamala, the proposal can be considered." "Many cities in different parts of the country used to have historic names but they were changed. So, there would not be any harm in reverting to those names. If the people want Shimla to be rechristened as Shyamala, the proposal can be considered," state health minister Vipin Singh Parmar was quoted as saying by PTI. Notably, social media has been abuzz with discussions on the topic for the last few days. The debate has left people divided with some favouring the name change and others opposing it saying that Shimla is a historical city and if one changes its name then it will lose its character. Senior Himachal Pradesh Congress leader Harbhajan Singh Bhajji while opposing the proposal said, "What's wrong with the name Shimla? Will the renaming ensure development? The state government should focus on ensuring that the state progresses instead of indulging in such frivolous antics," PTI reported. According to Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary Aman Puri, the popular holiday retreat was originally called Shyamala but as the Britishers found it tough to pronounce, they renamed it Simla which later became Shimla. Also known as the queen of hills, Shimla was declared the summer capital of British India in 1864. It remained that way till India got independence in 1947. British officer Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy played a pivotal role in transforming Shimla as he built the first house here in 1822 aptly calling it-- Kennedy House. (With inputs from PTI)

BJP government considering proposal to rename Shimla: Report

The driver of the train which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amritsar-police-commando-photojournalist-injured-as-protesters-clash-with-cops-traffic-restored-172633">mowed down at least 59 people</a> in Amritsar on Friday has said that he continued driving — despite realising that he had run people over — because the crowd started pelting stones at the train.&nbsp;

The driver, Arvind Kumar, said he continued driving because he had been worried for the safety of his passengers.&nbsp;

"I saw a crowd of people around the track. I immediately applied emergency brakes while continuously blowing the horn. Still some people came under it. The train was about to stop when people started pelting stones, so I started the train for the safety of the passengers," Kumar said in his statement.&nbsp;

The Punjab and Railway Police had detained Kumar on Saturday.&nbsp;

Kumar added that he stopped the train only when he reached Amritsar station.&nbsp;

He added that he immediately informed his superiors, and that he had flouted no norms on the journey.&nbsp;

The 59 people who died had assembled on the railway tracks to watch the burning of a Ravana effigy. The chief guest at the event was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amritsar-train-tragedy-sidhu-refuses-to-react-to-sads-demand-of-his-ouster-172636">Navjot Sidhu's wife Navjot Kaur Sidhu</a>.&nbsp;

Survivors later said they had not heard the approaching train because of the deafening noise of bursting firecrackers.&nbsp;

The Railways has so far said the 59 people killed were "trespassers". That they were trespassing on the tracks (railway property), that the accident was not the fault of the Railways, and that they willnot be taking action against Kumar.&nbsp;

"The incident was not the Railways' fault. There was no lapse on our part and no action against the driver will be initiated," Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha had said on Saturday.

Railway officials have also been talking to the linemen posted along the tracks, and asking them why they had not warned Kumar that over 700 people had gathered on the railway tracks.

The driver of the train which mowed down at least 59 people in Amritsar on Friday has said that he continued driving — despite realising that he had run people over — because the crowd started pelting stones at the train.

The driver of the train which mowed down at least 59 people in Amritsar on Friday has said that he continued driving — despite realising that he had run people over — because the crowd started pelting stones at the train. The driver, Arvind Kumar, said he continued driving because he had been worried for the safety of his passengers. "I saw a crowd of people around the track. I immediately applied emergency brakes while continuously blowing the horn. Still some people came under it. The train was about to stop when people started pelting stones, so I started the train for the safety of the passengers," Kumar said in his statement. The Punjab and Railway Police had detained Kumar on Saturday. Kumar added that he stopped the train only when he reached Amritsar station. He added that he immediately informed his superiors, and that he had flouted no norms on the journey. The 59 people who died had assembled on the railway tracks to watch the burning of a Ravana effigy. The chief guest at the event was Navjot Sidhu's wife Navjot Kaur Sidhu. Survivors later said they had not heard the approaching train because of the deafening noise of bursting firecrackers. The Railways has so far said the 59 people killed were "trespassers". That they were trespassing on the tracks (railway property), that the accident was not the fault of the Railways, and that they willnot be taking action against Kumar. "The incident was not the Railways' fault. There was no lapse on our part and no action against the driver will be initiated," Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha had said on Saturday. Railway officials have also been talking to the linemen posted along the tracks, and asking them why they had not warned Kumar that over 700 people had gathered on the railway tracks.

Amritsar train tragedy that killed 59: Continued driving because crowd pelted stones, says driver

Seeking a fourth straight term in Madhya Pradesh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intends to cast a ‘magic spell’ on voters during the upcoming state Assembly polls.&nbsp;

The party would be roping in magicians to highlight the work done by it in the last 15 years and compare it with that of the previous Congress government, MP BJP spokesman Rajnish Agrawal said.&nbsp;

“We have plans to hire magicians for campaigning and publicity,” he said, adding that magic shows would be organised at marketplaces to reach out to voters, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

The number of magicians to be utilised for this is yet to be decided. But, the BJP hopes to start the magic shows soon and budget allocation for these activities is also being worked out, Agrawal said. “With this art, we are going to tell people about what the BJP government has done for people, especially the weaker sections of society in Madhya Pradesh in the last 15 years,” the spokesman said.

The magic shows would also highlight the “poor condition” of roads, electricity supply and basic amenities during the 10-year Congress government headed by Digvijay Singh between 1993 and 2003 in the state, he said. The MP Assembly polls will be held on November 28 and counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Seeking a fourth straight term in Madhya Pradesh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intends to cast a ‘magic spell’ on voters during the upcoming state Assembly polls.

Seeking a fourth straight term in Madhya Pradesh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intends to cast a ‘magic spell’ on voters during the upcoming state Assembly polls. The party would be roping in magicians to highlight the work done by it in the last 15 years and compare it with that of the previous Congress government, MP BJP spokesman Rajnish Agrawal said. “We have plans to hire magicians for campaigning and publicity,” he said, adding that magic shows would be organised at marketplaces to reach out to voters, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. The number of magicians to be utilised for this is yet to be decided. But, the BJP hopes to start the magic shows soon and budget allocation for these activities is also being worked out, Agrawal said. “With this art, we are going to tell people about what the BJP government has done for people, especially the weaker sections of society in Madhya Pradesh in the last 15 years,” the spokesman said. The magic shows would also highlight the “poor condition” of roads, electricity supply and basic amenities during the 10-year Congress government headed by Digvijay Singh between 1993 and 2003 in the state, he said. The MP Assembly polls will be held on November 28 and counting of votes will take place on December 11.

BJP to rope in magicians for campaigning in Madhya Pradesh polls

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district.

The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Three militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam district, while six civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there.

Officials said immediately after the gunfight ended and the forces withdrew from the spot, civilians rushed to the encounter site where an explosive substance went off resulting in death of six civilians.

"To strongly condemn &amp; (and) protest the mayhem unleashed in Kulgam by the ruthless Indian state in which so far 5 (five) civilians &amp; 3 (three) armed youth killed besides injuries to tens of scores of injured, JRL calls for complete #Shutdown tomorrow, JRL will hold a #ProtestSitin (protest sit-in) on Tuesday at LaL Chowk," Farooq posted on Twitter before the toll was updated.

"Amidst internet &amp; news blackout reports of #BloodbathInKulgam as Indian forces go berserk! Many civilian casualties reported, 3 armed youth martyred more than sixty civilians injured many critical! Homes destroyed, women ruthlessly beaten! All roads to the area sealed, media barred!" Farooq said in another tweet.

Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and a Kashmiri Pandit organisation have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists. "In an emergency meeting held Sunday, the executive committee of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed its shock and concern at the sharp increase in the use of brutal force against the unarmed civilians of Kashmir," a statement by the KCCI said.

Condemning the incident, the KCCI said the business community of Kashmir once again urges the government to "restrain from launching operations in civilian areas which invariably trigger more killings and worsening of the law and order situation".

"The seemingly endless loss of innocent Kashmiri lives is a matter of pain and anguish for all of us. The KCCI offers its deepest condolences to the families of innocent unarmed civilians and requests the business community to observe a complete shutdown on Monday as a mark of protest against the brutalisation of our population," it said in a statement here.

The Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) also extended its support to the strike called by the separatists, saying it is mandatory for security forces to sanitise the area where encounter takes place to safeguard the lives of the civilians.

"We feel the pain of killing of civilians and injuries during cordon and search operation in Kulgam," KPSS president Sanjay Tickoo said in a statement here.

"It seems that the security forces take these basic things casually, which resulted in Sunday's incident. While Kashmir is being pushed back to the 1990 era by people's alienating policies by the political parties, the Central establishment is enjoying the so called victory in the Kashmir valley and is not bothered to diffuse current political turmoil in the valley," he said.

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district. The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district. The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL). Three militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam district, while six civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there. Officials said immediately after the gunfight ended and the forces withdrew from the spot, civilians rushed to the encounter site where an explosive substance went off resulting in death of six civilians. "To strongly condemn & (and) protest the mayhem unleashed in Kulgam by the ruthless Indian state in which so far 5 (five) civilians & 3 (three) armed youth killed besides injuries to tens of scores of injured, JRL calls for complete #Shutdown tomorrow, JRL will hold a #ProtestSitin (protest sit-in) on Tuesday at LaL Chowk," Farooq posted on Twitter before the toll was updated. "Amidst internet & news blackout reports of #BloodbathInKulgam as Indian forces go berserk! Many civilian casualties reported, 3 armed youth martyred more than sixty civilians injured many critical! Homes destroyed, women ruthlessly beaten! All roads to the area sealed, media barred!" Farooq said in another tweet. Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and a Kashmiri Pandit organisation have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists. "In an emergency meeting held Sunday, the executive committee of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed its shock and concern at the sharp increase in the use of brutal force against the unarmed civilians of Kashmir," a statement by the KCCI said. Condemning the incident, the KCCI said the business community of Kashmir once again urges the government to "restrain from launching operations in civilian areas which invariably trigger more killings and worsening of the law and order situation". "The seemingly endless loss of innocent Kashmiri lives is a matter of pain and anguish for all of us. The KCCI offers its deepest condolences to the families of innocent unarmed civilians and requests the business community to observe a complete shutdown on Monday as a mark of protest against the brutalisation of our population," it said in a statement here. The Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) also extended its support to the strike called by the separatists, saying it is mandatory for security forces to sanitise the area where encounter takes place to safeguard the lives of the civilians. "We feel the pain of killing of civilians and injuries during cordon and search operation in Kulgam," KPSS president Sanjay Tickoo said in a statement here. "It seems that the security forces take these basic things casually, which resulted in Sunday's incident. While Kashmir is being pushed back to the 1990 era by people's alienating policies by the political parties, the Central establishment is enjoying the so called victory in the Kashmir valley and is not bothered to diffuse current political turmoil in the valley," he said.

J&K: Separatists call for strike on Monday after death of civilians in Kulgam

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Reacting on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray`s upcoming visit to Ayodhya, Chavan told&nbsp;on Saturday, "Uddhav Thackeray Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again and again because elections are approaching, he said&nbsp;

"Upset with the delay in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray, on October 18, announced that he would visit the city on November 25.

"We warn everyone who thinks that Hindutva has died. We are still alive. We are saddened that Ram Temple has not been constructed yet. I will visit Ayodhya on November 25," Thackeray had said.&nbsp;

On senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut`s recent remark that the Supreme Court cannot solve the Ram Temple issue because it is a matter of faith, Chavan said&nbsp;''Our country functions on the basis of the Constitution. Whatever decision will be taken by courts will be followed by the entire nation.''&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ayodhya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ayodhya</a> matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again&amp;again because elections are approaching: Ashok Chavan,Congress,on Uddhav Thackeray’s statement ‘I'll visit Ayodhya on 25 Nov’. (20.10) <a href="https://t.co/AAUDVC8nSC">pic.twitter.com/AAUDVC8nSC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053772542220087297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI. Reacting on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray`s upcoming visit to Ayodhya, Chavan told on Saturday, "Uddhav Thackeray Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again and again because elections are approaching, he said "Upset with the delay in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray, on October 18, announced that he would visit the city on November 25. "We warn everyone who thinks that Hindutva has died. We are still alive. We are saddened that Ram Temple has not been constructed yet. I will visit Ayodhya on November 25," Thackeray had said. On senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut`s recent remark that the Supreme Court cannot solve the Ram Temple issue because it is a matter of faith, Chavan said ''Our country functions on the basis of the Constitution. Whatever decision will be taken by courts will be followed by the entire nation.'' Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on #Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again&again because elections are approaching: Ashok Chavan,Congress,on Uddhav Thackeray’s statement ‘I'll visit Ayodhya on 25 Nov’. (20.10) pic.twitter.com/AAUDVC8nSC — ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2018 ×

Uddhav Thackeray has never been serious on Ayodhya issue: Ashok Chavan

The situation remained tense Sunday as locals continued with their sit-in at Joda Patak where 59 Dussehra revellers were mowed down by a train. The locals had started protesting Saturday, raising slogans against the state government and demanding action against the train’s driver, a day after the accident here.

Police said locals are sitting on railway tracks and do not want to leave. “We hope that the normalcy will be restored in the area by Sunday evening as the number of protestors have come down since Saturday,” a senior police officer said. The Punjab Police has deployed its personnel, including commandoes, to manage the crowd. The Rapid Action Force is also present in the Joda Patak area.

The district administration has said out of 59 people who were mowed down by the speeding Jalandhar-Amritsar train Friday, 40 have been identified. The process of identifying the other persons is underway, it said. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who visited the accident site Saturday, has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.

The situation remained tense Sunday as locals continued with their sit-in at Joda Patak where 59 Dussehra revellers were mowed down by a train. The locals had started protesting Saturday, raising slogans against the state government and demanding action against the train’s driver, a day after the accident here.

The situation remained tense Sunday as locals continued with their sit-in at Joda Patak where 59 Dussehra revellers were mowed down by a train. The locals had started protesting Saturday, raising slogans against the state government and demanding action against the train’s driver, a day after the accident here. Police said locals are sitting on railway tracks and do not want to leave. “We hope that the normalcy will be restored in the area by Sunday evening as the number of protestors have come down since Saturday,” a senior police officer said. The Punjab Police has deployed its personnel, including commandoes, to manage the crowd. The Rapid Action Force is also present in the Joda Patak area. The district administration has said out of 59 people who were mowed down by the speeding Jalandhar-Amritsar train Friday, 40 have been identified. The process of identifying the other persons is underway, it said. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who visited the accident site Saturday, has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.

Amritsar train tragedy: Angry locals continue to protest at train accident site

Polling for Pakistan's second round of by-elections in three national and provincial assembly constituencies in Karachi and Peshawar were underway amidst strict security.

A total of 858,866 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the by-polls, which were necessitated after the candidates elected on them in the July 25 general elections tendered their resignations.&nbsp;

All three of the winners belonged to the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI).

Arif Alvi, who was elected from NA-247, resigned after being elected the country's president. Imran Ismail, who had won from PS-111 (Karachi South), gave up his seat after being appointed as the Sindh governor, while Shah Farman resigned from PK-71 Peshawar after being named the governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The elections to the NA-247 seat will see a close contest between PTI's billionaire businessman and real estate developer nominee Aftab Hussain Siddiqui and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) showbiz celebrity candidate Qaiser Nizamani.&nbsp;

There are around 5,46,451 voters in the constituency where 240 polling stations have been set-up.

Heavy security arrangements were seen for the NA-247 by-election in Karachi. Hundreds of army and paramilitary personnel, and policemen were seen on duty around and inside the polling stations.&nbsp;

Twelve candidates are in the fray for the NA-247 seat, while 15 for PS-111 and five for PK-71.

The first phase was held on October 14 for 11 National and 24 Provincial Assemblies where the ruling PTI and the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) won most of the seats.&nbsp;

Polling for Pakistan's second round of by-elections in three national and provincial assembly constituencies in Karachi and Peshawar were underway amidst strict security.

Polling for Pakistan's second round of by-elections in three national and provincial assembly constituencies in Karachi and Peshawar were underway amidst strict security. A total of 858,866 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the by-polls, which were necessitated after the candidates elected on them in the July 25 general elections tendered their resignations. All three of the winners belonged to the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). Arif Alvi, who was elected from NA-247, resigned after being elected the country's president. Imran Ismail, who had won from PS-111 (Karachi South), gave up his seat after being appointed as the Sindh governor, while Shah Farman resigned from PK-71 Peshawar after being named the governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The elections to the NA-247 seat will see a close contest between PTI's billionaire businessman and real estate developer nominee Aftab Hussain Siddiqui and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) showbiz celebrity candidate Qaiser Nizamani. There are around 5,46,451 voters in the constituency where 240 polling stations have been set-up. Heavy security arrangements were seen for the NA-247 by-election in Karachi. Hundreds of army and paramilitary personnel, and policemen were seen on duty around and inside the polling stations. Twelve candidates are in the fray for the NA-247 seat, while 15 for PS-111 and five for PK-71. The first phase was held on October 14 for 11 National and 24 Provincial Assemblies where the ruling PTI and the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) won most of the seats.

People cast their vote in second round of Pakistan bypolls

Six more people tested positive for Zika virus in Rajasthan's Jaipur district Sunday, taking the total number of such cases to 123,&nbsp;a government official said.

Of the 123 patients, around 105 have recovered after treatment, he said.

The state health department also formed a five-member committee on Saturday to investigate, examine and track Zika virus disease in pregnant patients of first trimester.

The committee will submit the report to the director public health from time to time, an order said. "Most of the cases which have been reported are from Shastri Nagar area here where fogging and other anti-larvae activities are being carried out to prevent the spread of the virus. "

The virus, transmitted through the aedes aegypti mosquito, causes fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain. It is harmful to pregnant women, as it can lead to microcephaly, a condition in which a baby's head is significantly smaller in newborns.&nbsp;

In India, the first outbreak was reported in Ahmedabad in January 2017 and the second in Tamil Nadu's Krishnagiri district in July that year. Both these outbreaks were successfully contained through intensive surveillance and vector management.

The disease is under surveillance of the Union Health Ministry although it is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern under WHO notification since November 18, 2016.

Six more people tested positive for Zika virus in Rajasthan's Jaipur district Sunday, taking the total number of such cases to 123, a government official said. Of the 123 patients, around 105 have recovered after treatment, he said.

Six more people tested positive for Zika virus in Rajasthan's Jaipur district Sunday, taking the total number of such cases to 123, a government official said. Of the 123 patients, around 105 have recovered after treatment, he said. The state health department also formed a five-member committee on Saturday to investigate, examine and track Zika virus disease in pregnant patients of first trimester. The committee will submit the report to the director public health from time to time, an order said. "Most of the cases which have been reported are from Shastri Nagar area here where fogging and other anti-larvae activities are being carried out to prevent the spread of the virus. " The virus, transmitted through the aedes aegypti mosquito, causes fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain. It is harmful to pregnant women, as it can lead to microcephaly, a condition in which a baby's head is significantly smaller in newborns. In India, the first outbreak was reported in Ahmedabad in January 2017 and the second in Tamil Nadu's Krishnagiri district in July that year. Both these outbreaks were successfully contained through intensive surveillance and vector management. The disease is under surveillance of the Union Health Ministry although it is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern under WHO notification since November 18, 2016.

Six new Zika cases in Rajasthan; total 123

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term.

After a meeting of the BJP's Central Election Committee, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and its president Amit Shah, the party also announced the names of 38 candidates for the election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly.

Names of 13 candidates, all Christians, have been also been declared for the polls to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly, Union minister J P Nadda said.

Chhattisgarh, along with Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, is ruled by the BJP out of the five poll-bound states. Chhattisgarh has 90 assembly seats and will be the first to go to the polls in two phases on November 12 and 20.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Ramdayal Uike, the working president of the Chhattisgarh Congress who joined the saffron party recently, from Pali-Tanakhar seat, and former IAS officer O P Chaudhary, who quit the service to join the party, from Kharsia, a Congress stronghold.

Among the candidates announced so far, 14 are women, 25 are less than 40 years of age, 10 candidates belong to the Scheduled Castes and 29 STs.

The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts of Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon. Out of these 18 seats, the BJP Saturday named candidates for 17 assembly segments.

The BJP had won 49 seats in the previous assembly polls in 2013 in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly.

A two minute-silence was held for the victims of the Amritsar train accident during the Central Election Committee meeting, Nadda said.

He said party leaders also expressed satisfaction at the performance of the party in local body polls in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term.

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term. After a meeting of the BJP's Central Election Committee, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and its president Amit Shah, the party also announced the names of 38 candidates for the election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly. Names of 13 candidates, all Christians, have been also been declared for the polls to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly, Union minister J P Nadda said. Chhattisgarh, along with Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, is ruled by the BJP out of the five poll-bound states. Chhattisgarh has 90 assembly seats and will be the first to go to the polls in two phases on November 12 and 20. The Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Ramdayal Uike, the working president of the Chhattisgarh Congress who joined the saffron party recently, from Pali-Tanakhar seat, and former IAS officer O P Chaudhary, who quit the service to join the party, from Kharsia, a Congress stronghold. Among the candidates announced so far, 14 are women, 25 are less than 40 years of age, 10 candidates belong to the Scheduled Castes and 29 STs. The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts of Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon. Out of these 18 seats, the BJP Saturday named candidates for 17 assembly segments. The BJP had won 49 seats in the previous assembly polls in 2013 in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly. A two minute-silence was held for the victims of the Amritsar train accident during the Central Election Committee meeting, Nadda said. He said party leaders also expressed satisfaction at the performance of the party in local body polls in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

BJP announces first list of 77 candidates for Chhattisgarh polls

In an unprecedented move, the CBI has booked its second in command, Rakesh Asthana, on the allegations of receiving bribe from an accused probed by him in a case linked to meat exporter Moin Qureshi -- a charge levelled by the officer on CBI Director Alok Verma in his complaint to the Cabinet Secretary two months ago.

The CBI registered the case -- FIR RC 13(A) of 2018 -- against CBI Special Director Asthana on October 15 on the basis of a complaint from Satish Sana, facing probe in the 2017 case allegedly involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi, alleging the officer had allegedly helped him to get a clean chit.

The CBI has also arrested Manoj Prasad, believed to be a middleman, when he returned from Dubai on October 16.

The agency has, however, maintained a silence on the issue.

It is alleged by Sana that Prasad and his brother Somesh had taken money to arrange clean chit to him.&nbsp;

Gujarat-cadre IPS officer Asthana, who is heading the Special Investigating Team handling crucial cases such as AgustaWestland chopper scam and loan fraud by business tycoon Vijay Mallya. The team is also probing the Moin Qureshi case.

Asthana in an exhaustive letter to the Cabinet Secretary on August 24 had given a list of 10 instances of alleged corruption by Verma in which it was alleged that Sana paid the CBI chief Rs 2 crore to get clean chit in the case, government sources said.

This complaint was referred to the Central Vigilance Commission which is probing the matter, they said.

Asthana has again written to the Central Vigilance Commissioner on October 19 -- four days after the FIR was registered -- informing him that he wanted to arrest and interrogate Sana for which a proposal was sent to the Director on September 20, 2018, they said.

In the letter, he has also referred to his communication to Cabinet Secretary on August 24 in which details of alleged irregularities against the Director were given.

He said the Director allegedly held the file for nearly four days and marked to the Director of Prosecution (DoP) on September 24, 2018 who demanded all evidence available on record, the sources said.

It was the team under Asthana which had opened a lookout circular against Sana who attempted to flee the country but could not because of the preemptive action, they said.

Asthana has said that the file was again placed before the Director on October 3 with answers to the queries raised by the DoP but it has not been returned till date, the sources said.

Sana was questioned by the SIT on October 1, 2018 where he stated that he had met a politician, who after meeting Verma, had assured him that his name would be cleared from the case, they said citing submissions of Asthana.

In an unprecedented move, the CBI has booked its second in command, Rakesh Asthana, on the allegations of receiving bribe from an accused probed by him in a case linked to meat exporter Moin Qureshi -- a charge levelled by the officer on CBI Director Alok Verma in his complaint to the Cabinet Secretary two months ago.

In an unprecedented move, the CBI has booked its second in command, Rakesh Asthana, on the allegations of receiving bribe from an accused probed by him in a case linked to meat exporter Moin Qureshi -- a charge levelled by the officer on CBI Director Alok Verma in his complaint to the Cabinet Secretary two months ago. The CBI registered the case -- FIR RC 13(A) of 2018 -- against CBI Special Director Asthana on October 15 on the basis of a complaint from Satish Sana, facing probe in the 2017 case allegedly involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi, alleging the officer had allegedly helped him to get a clean chit. The CBI has also arrested Manoj Prasad, believed to be a middleman, when he returned from Dubai on October 16. The agency has, however, maintained a silence on the issue. It is alleged by Sana that Prasad and his brother Somesh had taken money to arrange clean chit to him. Gujarat-cadre IPS officer Asthana, who is heading the Special Investigating Team handling crucial cases such as AgustaWestland chopper scam and loan fraud by business tycoon Vijay Mallya. The team is also probing the Moin Qureshi case. Asthana in an exhaustive letter to the Cabinet Secretary on August 24 had given a list of 10 instances of alleged corruption by Verma in which it was alleged that Sana paid the CBI chief Rs 2 crore to get clean chit in the case, government sources said. This complaint was referred to the Central Vigilance Commission which is probing the matter, they said. Asthana has again written to the Central Vigilance Commissioner on October 19 -- four days after the FIR was registered -- informing him that he wanted to arrest and interrogate Sana for which a proposal was sent to the Director on September 20, 2018, they said. In the letter, he has also referred to his communication to Cabinet Secretary on August 24 in which details of alleged irregularities against the Director were given. He said the Director allegedly held the file for nearly four days and marked to the Director of Prosecution (DoP) on September 24, 2018 who demanded all evidence available on record, the sources said. It was the team under Asthana which had opened a lookout circular against Sana who attempted to flee the country but could not because of the preemptive action, they said. Asthana has said that the file was again placed before the Director on October 3 with answers to the queries raised by the DoP but it has not been returned till date, the sources said. Sana was questioned by the SIT on October 1, 2018 where he stated that he had met a politician, who after meeting Verma, had assured him that his name would be cleared from the case, they said citing submissions of Asthana.

CBI books case against Rakesh Asthana — he is the agency's second-in-command

Who is to blame for Dussehra Tragedy in Amritsar ?

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