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By KM Mishra

The Indian army will be in the busiest period of its military diplomacy in the coming two months as it is set to undertake joint military exercise with the forces of America, Russia, China and Japan.

The joint military exercise will be conducted between the countries that lead the opposite poles of each other in the months of November and December.

The first ever military exercise with the Japanese Army will be held from November 1-14, where the Indian Army will take part in EX. DHARMA GAURDIAN in Mizoram's Warangate.

From November 14 onwards the joint military exercise with the American Special Forces will be conducted in the Mahajan Field Firing Range of Rajasthan. The military exercises called the VAJRA PRAHAR of the Para Special Forces of the Indian Army will run till December 2.&nbsp;

At the same time, Indian Armored soldiers in Babina will be participating in INDRA 2018 with the armoured soldiers of Russia. From November 16 to 29, joint exercise Indra-2018 will be held between India and Russia's Mechanized Afantry.&nbsp;

From November 16, the joint military exercise AGNI WARRIOR of the artillery will start with Singapore, which will run till November 30.&nbsp;

Annual exercise HAND IN HAND, which was cancelled last year due to the Doklam controversy with China will also be conducted this year. This military exercise, being held in mid-December, is being organised in Chengdu, China.

Indian military diplomacy is currently going through its most challenging time. The military relationship with the United States is continuously strengthening. In a meeting between the Defense and the Foreign Ministers held last month, the two countries had further decided to&nbsp;strengthen this relationship. Now both countries will conduct military exercises at much larger levels between their three armies. Naval exercises with the US Malabar and military exercise YUDHABHYAS have been going on for many years.&nbsp;

Indian military relations with Russia are historic. Russia had supported the Indian Army at the time of crisis. Arsenal of Indian armies is full of Russian arms. But Russia is unhappy with the growing military ties with the US over the past few years. In an attempt to take advantage of this, Pakistan has extended the hand of friendship towards Russia. For two years, the soldiers of both countries are practising on a small scale and points on various arms deals are also being discussed. Although recently, India&nbsp;tried to bridge the gap by going for Russian missile defence system S-400, despite the US pressure.

Japan is a fierce enemy of China and can become India's main ally in the plan to surround China in its backyard. Japan has been a permanent member of the maritime exercise in Malabar since 2016, which was earlier only between India and the US. For the first time this year, the Indian and Japanese military forces will practice jointly.

The biggest challenge of diplomacy is to handle India's strongest neighbour China. In the last few years, many mechanisms have been made at the level of the military commanders to maintain peace and tranquillity between the two. HAND IN HAND is the most important milestone in the military diplomacy in relations with China. In the trijunction border between Bhutan and the two countries last year, tension has increased in Doklam and armies have come face-to-face. This tension remained for more than two months.

By KM Mishra The Indian army will be in the busiest period of its military diplomacy in the coming two months as it is set to undertake joint military exercise with the forces of America, Russia, China and Japan.

By KM Mishra The Indian army will be in the busiest period of its military diplomacy in the coming two months as it is set to undertake joint military exercise with the forces of America, Russia, China and Japan. The joint military exercise will be conducted between the countries that lead the opposite poles of each other in the months of November and December. The first ever military exercise with the Japanese Army will be held from November 1-14, where the Indian Army will take part in EX. DHARMA GAURDIAN in Mizoram's Warangate. From November 14 onwards the joint military exercise with the American Special Forces will be conducted in the Mahajan Field Firing Range of Rajasthan. The military exercises called the VAJRA PRAHAR of the Para Special Forces of the Indian Army will run till December 2. At the same time, Indian Armored soldiers in Babina will be participating in INDRA 2018 with the armoured soldiers of Russia. From November 16 to 29, joint exercise Indra-2018 will be held between India and Russia's Mechanized Afantry. From November 16, the joint military exercise AGNI WARRIOR of the artillery will start with Singapore, which will run till November 30. Annual exercise HAND IN HAND, which was cancelled last year due to the Doklam controversy with China will also be conducted this year. This military exercise, being held in mid-December, is being organised in Chengdu, China. Indian military diplomacy is currently going through its most challenging time. The military relationship with the United States is continuously strengthening. In a meeting between the Defense and the Foreign Ministers held last month, the two countries had further decided to strengthen this relationship. Now both countries will conduct military exercises at much larger levels between their three armies. Naval exercises with the US Malabar and military exercise YUDHABHYAS have been going on for many years. Indian military relations with Russia are historic. Russia had supported the Indian Army at the time of crisis. Arsenal of Indian armies is full of Russian arms. But Russia is unhappy with the growing military ties with the US over the past few years. In an attempt to take advantage of this, Pakistan has extended the hand of friendship towards Russia. For two years, the soldiers of both countries are practising on a small scale and points on various arms deals are also being discussed. Although recently, India tried to bridge the gap by going for Russian missile defence system S-400, despite the US pressure. Japan is a fierce enemy of China and can become India's main ally in the plan to surround China in its backyard. Japan has been a permanent member of the maritime exercise in Malabar since 2016, which was earlier only between India and the US. For the first time this year, the Indian and Japanese military forces will practice jointly. The biggest challenge of diplomacy is to handle India's strongest neighbour China. In the last few years, many mechanisms have been made at the level of the military commanders to maintain peace and tranquillity between the two. HAND IN HAND is the most important milestone in the military diplomacy in relations with China. In the trijunction border between Bhutan and the two countries last year, tension has increased in Doklam and armies have come face-to-face. This tension remained for more than two months.

India to hold joint military exercise with US, Russia, China and Japan

WION Dispatch: Sri Lankan Prime Minister on a three-day India visit

The Editors Guild of India Thursday asked M J Akbar to withdraw the criminal defamation case he filed against journalist Priya Ramani, as the top editors' body came out in support of the women journalists who have accused him of sexual harassment.

The Guild also offered legal support to women journalists who have levelled the allegations against Akbar in case he does not withdraw the present case or files such cases against other women too.

The Guild's support for the women came a day after Akbar stepped down as the Minister of State for External Affairs in the face of mounting pressure following allegations of sexual harassment against him by several women journalists.

In a statement, the Guild said it salutes the courage shown by several women journalists in bringing to light instances of how they were sexually harassed.

"The resignation of Mr M. J Akbar from Union council of ministers is a result of these women journalists' courage to fight for a high principle: gender equality in the newsroom.

"We hope that Mr Akbar will also display the grace to withdraw the criminal defamation case he has filed against one of these complainants," it said.

While Akbar is entitled to all legal instruments available to a citizen to seek vindication, it would be paradoxical for a veteran editor to employ the instrument of criminal defamation, the Guild said, adding that, "more so for Mr Akbar who happens to be a former president of the Guild".

"But if he doesn't, or in case he files such cases against other women too, the Guild offers its support to them. If any of them were to need legal advice or assistance, the Guild will do the best it can to help and also appeal to eminent lawyers to represent them pro bono," the statement said.

The Guild's statement comes on a day a Delhi court commenced hearing on Akbar's criminal defamation complaint against Ramani, who has accused him of sexual misconduct around 20 years ago.

Akbar on Monday had filed the complaint against Ramani alleging she "wilfully" and "maliciously" made imputations against him with the ulterior motive of maligning his reputation and political standing.

The defamation case filed two days ago led more women and some men too to come forward in their defence of Ramani and others. On Tuesday night, 20 journalists, who had worked at The Asian Age during Akbar's tenure, issued a joint statement against him.

The Editors Guild of India Thursday asked M J Akbar to withdraw the criminal defamation case he filed against journalist Priya Ramani, as the top editors' body came out in support of the women journalists who have accused him of sexual harassment.

The Editors Guild of India Thursday asked M J Akbar to withdraw the criminal defamation case he filed against journalist Priya Ramani, as the top editors' body came out in support of the women journalists who have accused him of sexual harassment. The Guild also offered legal support to women journalists who have levelled the allegations against Akbar in case he does not withdraw the present case or files such cases against other women too. The Guild's support for the women came a day after Akbar stepped down as the Minister of State for External Affairs in the face of mounting pressure following allegations of sexual harassment against him by several women journalists. In a statement, the Guild said it salutes the courage shown by several women journalists in bringing to light instances of how they were sexually harassed. "The resignation of Mr M. J Akbar from Union council of ministers is a result of these women journalists' courage to fight for a high principle: gender equality in the newsroom. "We hope that Mr Akbar will also display the grace to withdraw the criminal defamation case he has filed against one of these complainants," it said. While Akbar is entitled to all legal instruments available to a citizen to seek vindication, it would be paradoxical for a veteran editor to employ the instrument of criminal defamation, the Guild said, adding that, "more so for Mr Akbar who happens to be a former president of the Guild". "But if he doesn't, or in case he files such cases against other women too, the Guild offers its support to them. If any of them were to need legal advice or assistance, the Guild will do the best it can to help and also appeal to eminent lawyers to represent them pro bono," the statement said. The Guild's statement comes on a day a Delhi court commenced hearing on Akbar's criminal defamation complaint against Ramani, who has accused him of sexual misconduct around 20 years ago. Akbar on Monday had filed the complaint against Ramani alleging she "wilfully" and "maliciously" made imputations against him with the ulterior motive of maligning his reputation and political standing. The defamation case filed two days ago led more women and some men too to come forward in their defence of Ramani and others. On Tuesday night, 20 journalists, who had worked at The Asian Age during Akbar's tenure, issued a joint statement against him.

Editors Guild asks M J Akbar to withdraw defamation case

Orchards dazzle with apples in Jammu and Kashmir

MJ Akbar has resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs.&nbsp;

Akbar has been accused by as many as 16 women journalists of sexual assault and harassment from when he was a newspaper editor.&nbsp;

"Since I have decided to seek justice in &nbsp;a court of law in my personal capacity, I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusation levied against me, also in a personal capacity. I have, therefore, tendered my resignation from the office of Minister of State for External Affairs," Akbar said in a statement Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-this-storm-just-before-general-elections-mj-akbar-to-take-legal-action-over-sexual-assault-allegations-171421">Akbar alleges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-this-storm-just-before-general-elections-mj-akbar-to-take-legal-action-over-sexual-assault-allegations-171421">political</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-this-storm-just-before-general-elections-mj-akbar-to-take-legal-action-over-sexual-assault-allegations-171421"> conspiracy, says he is not stepping down</a>

"I am deeply grateful to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to the External Affairs Minsters Smt. Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country," he added.&nbsp;

Akbar returned to India from Nigeria, where he was leading a trade delegation, on Sunday. There had been no word from him till then, even as woman after woman came out with accusations of sexual assault and harassment against him.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-absolute-truth-is-my-only-defence-priya-ramani-after-mj-akbar-files-criminal-defamation-case-against-her-171599">'The absolute truth is my only defence,' says journalist Priya Ramani after Akbar files criminal defamation case against her</a>

On Sunday afternoon, Akbar said the allegations were a lie, a political conspiracy before the 2019 elections, that he would not be resigning, and that he would be seeking legal remedies.&nbsp;

On Monday, a sixteenth woman accused him of sexual assault, saying he had opened his hotel room door to her wearing only his underwear. The woman had been in her early 20's at the time. She had thought she was going to a job interview.&nbsp;

Last Friday, the US-based CNN journalist Majlie de Puy Kamp accused Akbar of molesting her when she was an 18-year-old intern at the Asian Age in Delhi. On her last day of work, she said, she had gone to say goodbye to him, and he had forcibly kissed her.&nbsp;

She said Akbar had inserted his tongue into her mouth.&nbsp;

She added that her parents, both of whom were foreign correspondents, had been friends with Akbar, which is how she had got her internship.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Akbar sued the journalist Priya Ramani for criminal defamation saying she had begun "this campaign (against him) a year ago" (see tweet below).&nbsp;

Ramani replied that Akbar was seeking "to silence them (his alleged victims) through intimidation and harassment", that "the absolute truth is my only defence", that she would not be cowed down, and that she would fight back.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, news reports said twenty women journalists had gone on record telling the court that it should listen to their testimonies too — that they had been sexually assaulted and harassed by Akbar.&nbsp;

MJ Akbar's complaint against&nbsp;journalist Priya Ramani will be heard tomorrow in the&nbsp;Patiala House Court by Additional chief metropolitan magistrate Samar Vishal.

MJ Akbar has resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs. Akbar has been accused by as many as 16 women journalists of sexual assault and harassment from when he was a newspaper editor.

MJ Akbar has resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs. Akbar has been accused by as many as 16 women journalists of sexual assault and harassment from when he was a newspaper editor. "Since I have decided to seek justice in a court of law in my personal capacity, I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusation levied against me, also in a personal capacity. I have, therefore, tendered my resignation from the office of Minister of State for External Affairs," Akbar said in a statement Wednesday afternoon. Also read: Akbar alleges political conspiracy, says he is not stepping down "I am deeply grateful to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to the External Affairs Minsters Smt. Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country," he added. Akbar returned to India from Nigeria, where he was leading a trade delegation, on Sunday. There had been no word from him till then, even as woman after woman came out with accusations of sexual assault and harassment against him. Also read: 'The absolute truth is my only defence,' says journalist Priya Ramani after Akbar files criminal defamation case against her On Sunday afternoon, Akbar said the allegations were a lie, a political conspiracy before the 2019 elections, that he would not be resigning, and that he would be seeking legal remedies. On Monday, a sixteenth woman accused him of sexual assault, saying he had opened his hotel room door to her wearing only his underwear. The woman had been in her early 20's at the time. She had thought she was going to a job interview. Last Friday, the US-based CNN journalist Majlie de Puy Kamp accused Akbar of molesting her when she was an 18-year-old intern at the Asian Age in Delhi. On her last day of work, she said, she had gone to say goodbye to him, and he had forcibly kissed her. She said Akbar had inserted his tongue into her mouth. She added that her parents, both of whom were foreign correspondents, had been friends with Akbar, which is how she had got her internship. On Tuesday, Akbar sued the journalist Priya Ramani for criminal defamation saying she had begun "this campaign (against him) a year ago" (see tweet below). Ramani replied that Akbar was seeking "to silence them (his alleged victims) through intimidation and harassment", that "the absolute truth is my only defence", that she would not be cowed down, and that she would fight back. On Wednesday, news reports said twenty women journalists had gone on record telling the court that it should listen to their testimonies too — that they had been sexually assaulted and harassed by Akbar. MJ Akbar's complaint against journalist Priya Ramani will be heard tomorrow in the Patiala House Court by Additional chief metropolitan magistrate Samar Vishal.

#MeToo: MJ Akbar resigns after multiple allegations of sexual assault

The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi.

Tiwari breathed his last at Delhi's Max Hospital in Saket. Thursday was also Tiwari's birthday.&nbsp;

Tiwari had been admitted to hospital last September after suffering a brain stroke.&nbsp;

The veteran Congressman was the only politician to have served as the chief minister of two states. He was a three-time chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand (which is where he was from)&nbsp;chief minister from 2002-2007.&nbsp;

Tiwari also served as a union minister in several Congress-led governments. He has been both a union finance and foreign minister.&nbsp;

And in the 1990's, his name was bandied about as a possible prime ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

Tiwari broke from the Congress, forming the Congress (T) along with veteran Congress leader Arjun Singh in 1995 during the tenure of then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, but he returned to the fold in Sonia Gandhi took charge of the party.&nbsp;

From 2007 until 2009, Tiwari served as the governor of Andhra Pradesh, but was forced to resign following a sex scandal. His son, Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, had joined the BJP in January last year ahead of the Assembly elections in Uttarakhand.

Tiwari was born on October 18, 1925 in Nainital and held a law degree from Allahabad University.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders of various parties expressed grief over his demise.

"Saddened by the passing away of Shri ND Tiwari Ji. A towering leader, he was known for his administrative skills. He will be remembered for his efforts towards industrial growth &amp; working for the progress of UP &amp; Uttarakhand, a state he steered in its initial days," the Prime Minister tweeted.

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Saddened by the passing away of Shri ND Tiwari Ji. A towering leader, he was known for his administrative skills. He will be remembered for his efforts towards industrial growth &amp; working for the progress of UP &amp; Uttarakhand, a state he steered in its initial days. My condolences
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1052884246291865600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and his Uttar Pradesh counterpart Yogi Adityanath too conveyed their condolences.

Rawat said Tiwari's death was a "personal loss".

"The void left in Indian politics by his departure, will be very difficult to fill," he said. "Uttarakhand will never forget his contributions," Rawat tweeted.&nbsp;

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also condoled the death of the party veteran.

"My deepest condolences on the passing away of veteran Congress leader, Former Union Minister, Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh &amp; Uttarakhand, Shri N D Tiwari ji," he tweeted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

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The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi. Tiwari breathed his last at Delhi's Max Hospital in Saket.

The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi. Tiwari breathed his last at Delhi's Max Hospital in Saket. Thursday was also Tiwari's birthday. Tiwari had been admitted to hospital last September after suffering a brain stroke. The veteran Congressman was the only politician to have served as the chief minister of two states. He was a three-time chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand (which is where he was from) chief minister from 2002-2007. Tiwari also served as a union minister in several Congress-led governments. He has been both a union finance and foreign minister. And in the 1990's, his name was bandied about as a possible prime ministerial candidate. Tiwari broke from the Congress, forming the Congress (T) along with veteran Congress leader Arjun Singh in 1995 during the tenure of then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, but he returned to the fold in Sonia Gandhi took charge of the party. From 2007 until 2009, Tiwari served as the governor of Andhra Pradesh, but was forced to resign following a sex scandal. His son, Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, had joined the BJP in January last year ahead of the Assembly elections in Uttarakhand. Tiwari was born on October 18, 1925 in Nainital and held a law degree from Allahabad University. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders of various parties expressed grief over his demise. "Saddened by the passing away of Shri ND Tiwari Ji. A towering leader, he was known for his administrative skills. He will be remembered for his efforts towards industrial growth & working for the progress of UP & Uttarakhand, a state he steered in its initial days," the Prime Minister tweeted. Saddened by the passing away of Shri ND Tiwari Ji. A towering leader, he was known for his administrative skills. He will be remembered for his efforts towards industrial growth & working for the progress of UP & Uttarakhand, a state he steered in its initial days. My condolences — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 18, 2018 × Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and his Uttar Pradesh counterpart Yogi Adityanath too conveyed their condolences. Rawat said Tiwari's death was a "personal loss". "The void left in Indian politics by his departure, will be very difficult to fill," he said. "Uttarakhand will never forget his contributions," Rawat tweeted. Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also condoled the death of the party veteran. "My deepest condolences on the passing away of veteran Congress leader, Former Union Minister, Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand, Shri N D Tiwari ji," he tweeted. (With inputs from PTI)

Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-cm-of-up-uttarakhand-nd-tiwari-dies-at-93-172117">Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93</a>

The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">Afghanistan: Kandahar police chief killed in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">shooting</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-afghan-official-killed-in-shooting-us-general-unhurt-172141">, top US general escapes unhurt</a>

The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134">Trump threatens to 'CLOSE BORDER' if Mexico does not stop </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134">migrant</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-mexico-threatens-to-close-southern-border-172134"> caravan</a>

President Donald Trump threatened Thursday to "CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER" if Mexico does not act against a migrant caravan travelling towards the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119">Bhutan polls: Voters seek happiness in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-polls-voters-seek-happiness-in-new-government-172119"> government</a>

The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, wedged between India and China, voted in a national election Thursday guaranteed to usher in a new ruling party which must boost the economy without compromising the country's fierce independent streak.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-launch-artificial-moon-bright-enought-to-replace-streetlights-in-chengdu-city-172113">China to launch 3 'artificial moons', will replace streetlights of city</a>

China is reportedly in the process of launching "artificials moon" into orbit which will be bright enough to illuminate Chengdu, the southwestern province of Sichuan in China.

 
 
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Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93 The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi.

Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ND Tiwari dead at 93 The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Narayan Dutt Tiwari died Thursday in Delhi. Afghanistan: Kandahar police chief killed in shooting, top US general escapes unhurt The top US commander in Afghanistan, General Scott Miller escaped unhurt after a burst of gunfire in the governor's compound in Kandahar province on Thursday but the powerful police chief General Abdul Razeq was killed, officials said. Trump threatens to 'CLOSE BORDER' if Mexico does not stop migrant caravan President Donald Trump threatened Thursday to "CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN BORDER" if Mexico does not act against a migrant caravan travelling towards the US-Mexico border. Bhutan polls: Voters seek happiness in new government The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, wedged between India and China, voted in a national election Thursday guaranteed to usher in a new ruling party which must boost the economy without compromising the country's fierce independent streak. China to launch 3 'artificial moons', will replace streetlights of city China is reportedly in the process of launching "artificials moon" into orbit which will be bright enough to illuminate Chengdu, the southwestern province of Sichuan in China.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Activist and leader of the Ayyappa Dharma Sena Rahul Easwar, who was detained by the police from Nilakkal base camp for leading&nbsp;a section of protest in Sabarimala on Wednesday has been sent to police remand today.&nbsp;

A non-bailable FIR was also registered against Easwar who is currently lodged in Kottarakkara sub jail in Kerala.&nbsp;

Around 30 people were arrested in Kerala's Pamba in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/women-stopped-from-entering-keralas-sabarimala-temple-for-second-day-in-a-row-172129">protest that followed in Sabarimala temple</a> against the women in the age group of 10-50 years.

Out of the 30, nine were arrested on Tuesday while 21 were arrested on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Kerala: Activist Rahul Easwar has been sent to police remand and is currently lodged in Kottarakkara sub jail. He was arrested yesterday from Nilakkal base camp &amp; a non-bailable FIR was registered against him. (file pic) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/wi2g6rTMMe">pic.twitter.com/wi2g6rTMMe</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052866802366238720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Women's entry to the temple was blocked for the second day by protesters today.

For centuries, the Sabarimala temple in Kerala has banned women and girls between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the holy site.

But last month, the Supreme Court ruled the ban that infringed on the right to worship.

Entries for women is blocked by the&nbsp;"conservative devotees" despite the Supreme Court's ruling.

Clashes erupted&nbsp;between police and protesters when the temple opened the gates of the temple&nbsp;for the first time since the ban was lifted on Wednesday.

Activist and leader of the Ayyappa Dharma Sena Rahul Easwar, who was detained by the police from Nilakkal base camp for leading a section of protest in Sabarimala on Wednesday has been sent to police remand today.

Activist and leader of the Ayyappa Dharma Sena Rahul Easwar, who was detained by the police from Nilakkal base camp for leading a section of protest in Sabarimala on Wednesday has been sent to police remand today. A non-bailable FIR was also registered against Easwar who is currently lodged in Kottarakkara sub jail in Kerala. Around 30 people were arrested in Kerala's Pamba in the protest that followed in Sabarimala temple against the women in the age group of 10-50 years. Out of the 30, nine were arrested on Tuesday while 21 were arrested on Wednesday. Kerala: Activist Rahul Easwar has been sent to police remand and is currently lodged in Kottarakkara sub jail. He was arrested yesterday from Nilakkal base camp & a non-bailable FIR was registered against him. (file pic) #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/wi2g6rTMMe — ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2018 × Women's entry to the temple was blocked for the second day by protesters today. For centuries, the Sabarimala temple in Kerala has banned women and girls between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the holy site. But last month, the Supreme Court ruled the ban that infringed on the right to worship. Entries for women is blocked by the "conservative devotees" despite the Supreme Court's ruling. Clashes erupted between police and protesters when the temple opened the gates of the temple for the first time since the ban was lifted on Wednesday.

Activist Rahul Easwar remanded in police custody over Sabarimala unrest

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Sabarimala temple row: Section 144 imposed in several places

Conservative Hindu groups including youth members of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party returned to the Sabarimala temple on Thursday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gates-of-sabarimala-open-women-are-not-allowed-to-enter-171993">to block women from entering for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gates-of-sabarimala-open-women-are-not-allowed-to-enter-171993">a second</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gates-of-sabarimala-open-women-are-not-allowed-to-enter-171993"> day</a>, in defiance of a court ruling that says banning them is illegal.

For centuries, the Sabarimala temple in Kerala has banned women and girls between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the holy site. But last month, the Supreme Court ruled the ban infringed on the right to worship.

Since then, the case has become a focal point for women's rights in India.

There were clashes between police and protesters when the temple opened for the first time since the ban was lifted on Wednesday, preventing women from entering.

Kerala's secular state government says it wants to uphold the court's decision, but Hindu groups, including branches of the BJP and its parent organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, say the court's decision is offensive to worshippers.

"A large number of women, who follow the tradition, were not heard; their emotions weren't respected," RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat told a rally of supporters on Thursday.

In response, the state's chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in a tweet that the RSS and other Hindu groups "are obstructing believers and spreading terror".

LAW FLOUTED

The temple is located in a remote tiger reserve in the western Ghats mountain range. Many visitors trek through the mountains to get to the temple.

Kerala's police department has imposed an emergency law until midnight on Friday preventing groups of four or more people from gathering within 30 km (19 miles) of the temple.

A police official, who declined to be identified, said seven members of a youth wing of the BJP were arrested on Thursday after disguising themselves as worshippers and staging a sit-in at Nilakkal, about 18 km (11 miles) from the temple and the main entry point to the site.

On Thursday, a female reporter from the New York Times was pelted with stones while trying to visit the temple. The journalist, Suhasini Raj, abandoned her trip under police protection, footage from Reuters partner ANI showed.

Conservative Hindu groups including youth members of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party returned to the Sabarimala temple on Thursday to block women from entering for a second day, in defiance of a court ruling that says banning them is illegal.

Conservative Hindu groups including youth members of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party returned to the Sabarimala temple on Thursday to block women from entering for a second day, in defiance of a court ruling that says banning them is illegal. For centuries, the Sabarimala temple in Kerala has banned women and girls between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the holy site. But last month, the Supreme Court ruled the ban infringed on the right to worship. Since then, the case has become a focal point for women's rights in India. There were clashes between police and protesters when the temple opened for the first time since the ban was lifted on Wednesday, preventing women from entering. Kerala's secular state government says it wants to uphold the court's decision, but Hindu groups, including branches of the BJP and its parent organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, say the court's decision is offensive to worshippers. "A large number of women, who follow the tradition, were not heard; their emotions weren't respected," RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat told a rally of supporters on Thursday. In response, the state's chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in a tweet that the RSS and other Hindu groups "are obstructing believers and spreading terror". LAW FLOUTED The temple is located in a remote tiger reserve in the western Ghats mountain range. Many visitors trek through the mountains to get to the temple. Kerala's police department has imposed an emergency law until midnight on Friday preventing groups of four or more people from gathering within 30 km (19 miles) of the temple. A police official, who declined to be identified, said seven members of a youth wing of the BJP were arrested on Thursday after disguising themselves as worshippers and staging a sit-in at Nilakkal, about 18 km (11 miles) from the temple and the main entry point to the site. On Thursday, a female reporter from the New York Times was pelted with stones while trying to visit the temple. The journalist, Suhasini Raj, abandoned her trip under police protection, footage from Reuters partner ANI showed.

Women stopped from entering Kerala's Sabarimala temple for second day in a row

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday attacked the Modi government over the Rafale deal alleging that it renegotiated the contract to benefit crony capitalists and reduced India's prestige globally.

In a Facebook post, Gandhi said due to the renegotiated deal India could not get transfer of technology as negotiated during the UPA rule and it was shameful that Indian pilots have to put their lives at risk flying the ancient Jaguar aircraft as the new technology did not come into the country.

He cited a media report to allege that instead of getting 126 Rafale aircraft together with transfer of technology that would have transformed the Indian Air Force, the NDA government renegotiated the deal to get only 36 aircraft made in France.

"Since 2014, instead of taking to closure deals that had been negotiated by the UPA Government, the present government has focussed on renegotiating those deals to benefit crony capitalists.

"For instance, the UPA's Rafale deal for 126 aircraft would have transformed the Indian Airforce allowing us to scrap and replace ancient aircraft like the Jaguar. It involved the transfer of technology to HAL which would have helped make us become more self reliant in the future. Instead, the deal was re-worked for Anil Ambani's benefit and reduced to just 36 aircraft - all made in France. These aircraft will take years to arrive in India," he claimed in his post.

Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group has denied the Congress' allegations in connection with deal.

Gandhi and his Congress party have been attacking the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism.&nbsp;

The Government has dismissed Rahul Gandhi's allegations, while the BJP has accused him of spreading lies on the issue.

The Congress chief alleged that India's pilots are forced to put their lives at risk each day, flying ancient Jaguars, that are kept in the air "using parts scrounged from junk yards in France and other parts of the world".

"Not only is this shameful, it reduces India's prestige globally and puts the lives of our pilots at risk," he said.

He cited a media report claiming that "India is the only air force in the world still flying the Jaguar aircraft, and will now ?cannibalise' retired aircraft for spare parts".&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday attacked the Modi government over the Rafale deal alleging that it renegotiated the contract to benefit crony capitalists and reduced India's prestige globally.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday attacked the Modi government over the Rafale deal alleging that it renegotiated the contract to benefit crony capitalists and reduced India's prestige globally. In a Facebook post, Gandhi said due to the renegotiated deal India could not get transfer of technology as negotiated during the UPA rule and it was shameful that Indian pilots have to put their lives at risk flying the ancient Jaguar aircraft as the new technology did not come into the country. He cited a media report to allege that instead of getting 126 Rafale aircraft together with transfer of technology that would have transformed the Indian Air Force, the NDA government renegotiated the deal to get only 36 aircraft made in France. "Since 2014, instead of taking to closure deals that had been negotiated by the UPA Government, the present government has focussed on renegotiating those deals to benefit crony capitalists. "For instance, the UPA's Rafale deal for 126 aircraft would have transformed the Indian Airforce allowing us to scrap and replace ancient aircraft like the Jaguar. It involved the transfer of technology to HAL which would have helped make us become more self reliant in the future. Instead, the deal was re-worked for Anil Ambani's benefit and reduced to just 36 aircraft - all made in France. These aircraft will take years to arrive in India," he claimed in his post. Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group has denied the Congress' allegations in connection with deal. Gandhi and his Congress party have been attacking the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism. The Government has dismissed Rahul Gandhi's allegations, while the BJP has accused him of spreading lies on the issue. The Congress chief alleged that India's pilots are forced to put their lives at risk each day, flying ancient Jaguars, that are kept in the air "using parts scrounged from junk yards in France and other parts of the world". "Not only is this shameful, it reduces India's prestige globally and puts the lives of our pilots at risk," he said. He cited a media report claiming that "India is the only air force in the world still flying the Jaguar aircraft, and will now ?cannibalise' retired aircraft for spare parts".

Rahul persists with Rafale attack on government, alleges deal re-negotiated to benefit crony capitalists

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically.

Azad reportedly made the comments at an event of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Lucknow on Wednesday, apparently to criticise the political climate in Uttar Pradesh under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the simple reason behind fewer people calling Azad for campaigning is the falling stock of the Congress.&nbsp;

For this Azad has invented the Hindu-Muslim angle, he added.

"These are not ordinary words. It is an abuse for the country's secular fabric and Hindus. It is yet another attempt by the Congress to demean and demoralise Hindus," Patra told reporters.

He also rejected Azad's allegation that the BJP is defaming the AMU and targeting Kashmiri students, saying if prayer meetings are held for terrorists then it will be condemned.

Three Kashmiri students of the AMU were suspended and booked for sedition last week for allegedly raising "anti-India" slogans and trying to hold a prayer meeting for Hizbul Mujahideen commander Manan Bashir Wani, who was killed in an encounter in north Kashmir.

The varsity revoked the suspension of two students on Tuesday.

Patra said Azad had earlier claimed that the Army kills more civilians in Kashmir than terrorists.

It seems he wants to campaign in Pakistan, the BJP spokesperson said.

He accused the opposition party of conspiring against Hindus and said its leaders have used terms like "Hindu Taliban", "Hindu Pakistan" and "Hindu terrorists" in the past.

Patra also demanded a response from Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress will never use such remarks to refer to any other community, he said.&nbsp;

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically.

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically. Azad reportedly made the comments at an event of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Lucknow on Wednesday, apparently to criticise the political climate in Uttar Pradesh under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the simple reason behind fewer people calling Azad for campaigning is the falling stock of the Congress. For this Azad has invented the Hindu-Muslim angle, he added. "These are not ordinary words. It is an abuse for the country's secular fabric and Hindus. It is yet another attempt by the Congress to demean and demoralise Hindus," Patra told reporters. He also rejected Azad's allegation that the BJP is defaming the AMU and targeting Kashmiri students, saying if prayer meetings are held for terrorists then it will be condemned. Three Kashmiri students of the AMU were suspended and booked for sedition last week for allegedly raising "anti-India" slogans and trying to hold a prayer meeting for Hizbul Mujahideen commander Manan Bashir Wani, who was killed in an encounter in north Kashmir. The varsity revoked the suspension of two students on Tuesday. Patra said Azad had earlier claimed that the Army kills more civilians in Kashmir than terrorists. It seems he wants to campaign in Pakistan, the BJP spokesperson said. He accused the opposition party of conspiring against Hindus and said its leaders have used terms like "Hindu Taliban", "Hindu Pakistan" and "Hindu terrorists" in the past. Patra also demanded a response from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The Congress will never use such remarks to refer to any other community, he said.

Azad's remarks at AMU event an 'abuse' for Hindus: BJP

Petrol and diesel prices were reduced on Thursday for the first time in over two months because of a drop in the cost of production, according to state-owned oil firms.

Petrol price was cut by 21 paise per litre and diesel by 11 paise, a price notification issued by state retailers said.

This is the first price cut arising from a drop in international oil prices.

&nbsp;The petrol price in the national capital settled at Rs 82.62 per litre, a decrease of 21 paise and that in Mumbai was Rs 88.08 per litre also a cut by 21 paise.&nbsp;

The diesel price mark was Rs 75.58 per litre in Delhi and for Mumbai, the price was Rs 79.24 per litre -- both a decrease by 11 paise.&nbsp;

In the two other metro cities, the same cut was seen. In Kolkata, the petrol price settled at Rs 84.44 per litre and in Chennai, it was Rs 85.88 per litre a cut by 22 paise. The price for diesel in Kolkata was Rs 77.43 per litre and in Chennai, it was Rs 79.93 per litre.

Petrol and diesel prices were reduced on Thursday for the first time in over two months because of a drop in the cost of production, according to state-owned oil firms.

Petrol and diesel prices were reduced on Thursday for the first time in over two months because of a drop in the cost of production, according to state-owned oil firms. Petrol price was cut by 21 paise per litre and diesel by 11 paise, a price notification issued by state retailers said. This is the first price cut arising from a drop in international oil prices. The petrol price in the national capital settled at Rs 82.62 per litre, a decrease of 21 paise and that in Mumbai was Rs 88.08 per litre also a cut by 21 paise. The diesel price mark was Rs 75.58 per litre in Delhi and for Mumbai, the price was Rs 79.24 per litre -- both a decrease by 11 paise. In the two other metro cities, the same cut was seen. In Kolkata, the petrol price settled at Rs 84.44 per litre and in Chennai, it was Rs 85.88 per litre a cut by 22 paise. The price for diesel in Kolkata was Rs 77.43 per litre and in Chennai, it was Rs 79.93 per litre.

Diesel, petrol prices fall across country as oil companies cut price

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning.

Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed.

The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to thank the Prime Minister for the Central Government`s decision not to disturb the 60:40 ratio with respect to the appointment of officers in the UT of Chandigarh.

Captain Amarinder had, in recent weeks, expressed his strong protest over the constant efforts being made to disturb the fine balance in sharing of officers and other resources between Haryana and Punjab that had been achieved over a period of time after a great deal of effort.

He also urged the Prime Minister to ensure settlement of the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap and requested for assistance for the preparation of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.

Giving details of the meeting, an official spokesperson of the Punjab government later said the Chief Minister had urged Modi to advise the Finance Ministry to urgently settle the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap on the principle of shared responsibilities.

Reiterating his demand for resettlement of gap in Food Cash Credit Account of Punjab, which had resulted from systemic and structural reasons, the Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that this should be settled on the principle of shared responsibilities amongst the stakeholders in the procurement of food grains for the country.

In fact, he pointed out, the matter had been discussed in detail in the internal report of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, referred to as the PK Jha Committee Report.

Noting that the Ministry of Finance, GoI, which was looking into the matter on a reference received from the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, was yet to finalise the matter, Captain Amarinder sought the Prime Minister`s intervention to resolve the issue.

He urged the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry of Finance to reconsider and review the conversion of Rs. 31,000 crore as long-term loan as it cannot be solely attributed to the State of Punjab given the principle of shared responsibilities.

Citing similar commemorative events held in the past, when generous assistance packages were given by the Centre to the state government, the Chief Minister reminded the Prime Minister of his assurance that the Centre would provide due assistance to the Punjab government to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji next year in a befitting manner.

He also urged the Prime Minister to issue suitable directions to the Ministry of Culture and the National Implementation Committee, instituted in June this year, to provide the necessary support to the state to make suitable arrangements for the event. (ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning. Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning. Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed. The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to thank the Prime Minister for the Central Government`s decision not to disturb the 60:40 ratio with respect to the appointment of officers in the UT of Chandigarh. Captain Amarinder had, in recent weeks, expressed his strong protest over the constant efforts being made to disturb the fine balance in sharing of officers and other resources between Haryana and Punjab that had been achieved over a period of time after a great deal of effort. He also urged the Prime Minister to ensure settlement of the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap and requested for assistance for the preparation of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji. Giving details of the meeting, an official spokesperson of the Punjab government later said the Chief Minister had urged Modi to advise the Finance Ministry to urgently settle the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap on the principle of shared responsibilities. Reiterating his demand for resettlement of gap in Food Cash Credit Account of Punjab, which had resulted from systemic and structural reasons, the Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that this should be settled on the principle of shared responsibilities amongst the stakeholders in the procurement of food grains for the country. In fact, he pointed out, the matter had been discussed in detail in the internal report of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, referred to as the PK Jha Committee Report. Noting that the Ministry of Finance, GoI, which was looking into the matter on a reference received from the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, was yet to finalise the matter, Captain Amarinder sought the Prime Minister`s intervention to resolve the issue. He urged the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry of Finance to reconsider and review the conversion of Rs. 31,000 crore as long-term loan as it cannot be solely attributed to the State of Punjab given the principle of shared responsibilities. Citing similar commemorative events held in the past, when generous assistance packages were given by the Centre to the state government, the Chief Minister reminded the Prime Minister of his assurance that the Centre would provide due assistance to the Punjab government to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji next year in a befitting manner. He also urged the Prime Minister to issue suitable directions to the Ministry of Culture and the National Implementation Committee, instituted in June this year, to provide the necessary support to the state to make suitable arrangements for the event. (ANI)

Stubble burning: Punjab CM Amarinder meets PM to press for compensation

Ashish Pandey has been sent to one-day police custody&nbsp;against Delhi Police request for&nbsp;four days.&nbsp;

Earlier, Pandey, son <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-former-bsp-mps-son-booked-under-arms-act-after-brandishing-171740">of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey</a>, surrendered before the Delhi's Patiala House Court&nbsp;after police registered a complaint against him for allegedly brandishing a gun outside Hyatt Regency in Delhi on October 14.

Pandey said that he took out the gun for his safety and added that he did not brandish it.

''I took the gun with me for safety. I didn't brandish it. It was hanging behind me all the time. I didn't even address that girl, she pushed me and made obscene hand gestures. I've faith in the judiciary, therefore, &nbsp;decided to surrender. There is no history of the police case against me,'' Pandey said.&nbsp;

Pandey denied going to the ladies toilet and said that he was being projected like a wanted terrorist.&nbsp;

''I'm being projected like I'm a wanted terrorist and police across the nation is looking for me. Look Out Circular has been issued against me. If you check CCTV footage, you'll find who went to ladies toilet that night and who threatened whom,'' he added.&nbsp;

The Delhi Police had filed&nbsp;an FIR under the Arms Act and sections of the IPC, including those related to causing hurt (323), criminal intimidation (506) and using force with the intent to outrage the modesty of a woman (354).

In the video, Ashish was seen with a gun in his hand outside the Hyatt Recency arguing with a couple as other women friends passed by and got into his car. The hotel authorities were seen trying to defuse the situation.

Pandey later got into the car and left.&nbsp;

Ashish Pandey is the brother of Ritesh Pandey, BSP MLA from Jalalpur in Uttar Pradesh's Ambedkar Nagar.

Ashish Pandey has been sent to one-day police custody against Delhi Police request for four days. Earlier, Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, surrendered before the Delhi's Patiala House Court after police registered a complaint against him for allegedly brandishing a gun outside Hyatt Regency in Delhi on October 14.

Ashish Pandey has been sent to one-day police custody against Delhi Police request for four days. Earlier, Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, surrendered before the Delhi's Patiala House Court after police registered a complaint against him for allegedly brandishing a gun outside Hyatt Regency in Delhi on October 14. Pandey said that he took out the gun for his safety and added that he did not brandish it. ''I took the gun with me for safety. I didn't brandish it. It was hanging behind me all the time. I didn't even address that girl, she pushed me and made obscene hand gestures. I've faith in the judiciary, therefore, decided to surrender. There is no history of the police case against me,'' Pandey said. Pandey denied going to the ladies toilet and said that he was being projected like a wanted terrorist. ''I'm being projected like I'm a wanted terrorist and police across the nation is looking for me. Look Out Circular has been issued against me. If you check CCTV footage, you'll find who went to ladies toilet that night and who threatened whom,'' he added. The Delhi Police had filed an FIR under the Arms Act and sections of the IPC, including those related to causing hurt (323), criminal intimidation (506) and using force with the intent to outrage the modesty of a woman (354). In the video, Ashish was seen with a gun in his hand outside the Hyatt Recency arguing with a couple as other women friends passed by and got into his car. The hotel authorities were seen trying to defuse the situation. Pandey later got into the car and left. Ashish Pandey is the brother of Ritesh Pandey, BSP MLA from Jalalpur in Uttar Pradesh's Ambedkar Nagar.

One-day police remand for Ashish Pandey who threatened couple outside Delhi hotel

The Kerala police detained people protesting against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 to Kerala's &nbsp;Sabarimala Temple on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The forest shrine of Lord Ayyappa in Sabarimala will open its door for the first time after the Supreme Court's verdict to allow menstruating women to worship in the temple.

Nilackal, the entry point to the Sabarimala hill temple, has turned into a venue for protests by various groups that oppose the entry of younger women to the shrine. While the government is poised to implement the Supreme Court verdict, it has to be seen if women will actually enter the premises today.

Meanwhile, strong protests by Sabarimala traditionalists on Wednesday forced a 40-year-old Andhra woman and her family to abandon their trip to the Lord Ayyappa temple.

Madhavi accompanied by her parents and children began their Pamba climb on the Swami Ayyapan road leading to the hilltop temple hours ahead of its opening for the monthly puja rituals.

Ten minutes into their trek, accompanied by a strong police force, the family had to abandon their plans of praying to the Lord Ayyappa inside the temple premises accompanied by Madhavi, who is in the prohibited age group of 10-50.

The protesters had put every impediment on her way, but Madhavi was able to break the barriers at Nilackal and Pamba accompanied by police as she trekked higher.

Police officers climbing along assured her that they would be with her if she wished to proceed and she could go forward.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Women protest in Nilakkal against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sabarimala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sabarimala</a> temple. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://t.co/GuxDZo0R7G">pic.twitter.com/GuxDZo0R7G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052426916182003714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, angry protesters were unrelenting. They went after her. Unable to bear the anger Madhavi decided to return.

Tribals living in the hills around Sabarimala alleged that the government and the Travancore Devaswom Board were trying to demolish centuries-old customs by allowing entry of women in the 10-50 age group into the famous Sabarimala temple.

They claimed that restrictions imposed on women in the menstruating age group were part of a custom prevailing in tribal societies living in the forests in Kerala.

They also claimed several rights of the tribal communities over the Sabarimala temple and the places associated with the hill shrine were forcibly taken away from them by the authorities of the government and the Travancore Devaswom Board that manages the temple.

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Pamba: Police detain people protesting against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 women to Kerala's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/DLdoYMVz8J">pic.twitter.com/DLdoYMVz8J</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052443458009518080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Kerala police detained people protesting against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 to Kerala's Sabarimala Temple on Wednesday. The forest shrine of Lord Ayyappa in Sabarimala will open its door for the first time after the Supreme Court's verdict to allow menstruating women to worship in the temple.

The Kerala police detained people protesting against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 to Kerala's Sabarimala Temple on Wednesday. The forest shrine of Lord Ayyappa in Sabarimala will open its door for the first time after the Supreme Court's verdict to allow menstruating women to worship in the temple. Nilackal, the entry point to the Sabarimala hill temple, has turned into a venue for protests by various groups that oppose the entry of younger women to the shrine. While the government is poised to implement the Supreme Court verdict, it has to be seen if women will actually enter the premises today. Meanwhile, strong protests by Sabarimala traditionalists on Wednesday forced a 40-year-old Andhra woman and her family to abandon their trip to the Lord Ayyappa temple. Madhavi accompanied by her parents and children began their Pamba climb on the Swami Ayyapan road leading to the hilltop temple hours ahead of its opening for the monthly puja rituals. Ten minutes into their trek, accompanied by a strong police force, the family had to abandon their plans of praying to the Lord Ayyappa inside the temple premises accompanied by Madhavi, who is in the prohibited age group of 10-50. The protesters had put every impediment on her way, but Madhavi was able to break the barriers at Nilackal and Pamba accompanied by police as she trekked higher. Police officers climbing along assured her that they would be with her if she wished to proceed and she could go forward. #WATCH: Women protest in Nilakkal against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 to #Sabarimala temple. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/GuxDZo0R7G — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 × However, angry protesters were unrelenting. They went after her. Unable to bear the anger Madhavi decided to return. Tribals living in the hills around Sabarimala alleged that the government and the Travancore Devaswom Board were trying to demolish centuries-old customs by allowing entry of women in the 10-50 age group into the famous Sabarimala temple. They claimed that restrictions imposed on women in the menstruating age group were part of a custom prevailing in tribal societies living in the forests in Kerala. They also claimed several rights of the tribal communities over the Sabarimala temple and the places associated with the hill shrine were forcibly taken away from them by the authorities of the government and the Travancore Devaswom Board that manages the temple. Pamba: Police detain people protesting against the entry of women in the age group of 10-50 women to Kerala's #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/DLdoYMVz8J — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 ×

Sabarimala temple row: Police detain people protesting against entry of women

#MeToo: MJ Akbar vows to fight back sexual assault allegations

The iron gates of Sabarimala temple opened Wednesday for the first time since the Supreme Court allowed women of menstrual age to enter the shrine but by all indications none from the "banned" age group could make it to its hallowed precincts amid a welter of protests and violent clashes.

Women journalists were heckled, their vehicles smashed and young female Ayyappa devotees turned back as hordes of Hindu right activists besieged the road leading to the hill-top temple, abode to Lord Ayyappa, its eternally celibate deity, officials said. 
Chaos and mayhem ruled supreme on the road leading from Nilackal, the gateway to the shrine, to Pamba in the foothills from where the devotees start the arduous treck to Sabarimala, as activists of Hindu fringe groups fought pitched battles with police, leaving many injured and bleeding.

Incensed over Kerala's Left Front government's decision not to file a review plea against the Supreme Court's September 28 landmark order, protesters pelted police with stones and the latter hit right back with vengeance wielding batons with telling effect, leaving many fallen and writhing in pain on the road. 
Several protesters were seen being bundled into police vehicles, while siren blaring ambulances carried some to hospitals.

Simmering tension prevailing in Nilackal since morning erupted into raucous rowdyism as scores of activists of fringe groups heckled women journalists of at least four national TV channels and vandalised their vehicles.

National TV showed protesters wearing black and saffron turbans running after their cars, violently pounding and kicking the vehicles in a bid to stop them from proceeding to Pamba from Nilackal on way to Sabarimala.

At least 10 people from the media, including reporters and photojournalists, were injured and equipment of several of them damaged, senior minister E P Jayarajan said.

Denouncing the attacks on media, he said cases were being registered against the suspects under sections relating to non-bailable offences.

Unfazed by the unfolding violence, Madhavi, a gutsy woman from Andhra Pradesh in her 40s, tried to climb the Sabarimala hills to reach the Lord Ayyappa temple but was forced to return to Pamba, menaced by agitated male devotees.

Liby, a woman from Kerala's Alappuzha, also in the "banned" age group, was prevented from proceeding to Sabarimala at Pathanamthitta bus terminal. She was escorted to safety by police.

Both the Congress, the main opposition party in Kerala, and the BJP, which is desperately seeking to expand its footprint in the state, have lent support to the agitation against the Supreme Court verdict.

State Congress working president K Sudhakaran led his party workers in a protest at Nilackal to express solidarity with Ayyappa devotees.

An embattled Left Front government reacted sharply to the protests, with the state's religious trusts minister Kadakampally Surendran calling them "politically motivated". 
Surendran, who reviewed the situation and preparations for the three-month-long Mandalam-Makaravilakku-festival beginning November 17 at Sannidhanam (Sabarimala temple complex), said the government would tackle the agitation politically.

"The BJP-RSS are trying to create tension and destroy the peaceful atmosphere in Kerala for political gain. We know the agenda of the RSS and BJP very well," he said, and insisted the government did not want any confrontation with believers.

The BJP rejected the allegation, saying the government was responsible for the "collapse" of law and order.

Party leader and MP V Muraleedharan said the government should shed its stubbornness and respect the sentiments of the people of Kerala. 
Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala blamed both the ruling CPI(M) and the BJP-RSS combine for violence.

Even as streets in Nilackal and Pamba erupted in tumult, thousands of bare-chested Ayyappa devotees waited patiently in the vast concourse outside Sabarimala for its gates to open at the appointed hour--5 pm.

Carrying "Irumudikettu" (the sacred bundle containing ghee-filled coconuts they offer to the deity), they calmly walked past security personnel to take their place in the long queue where they would wait for hours on end for a glimpse of Lord Ayyappa.

Though older women and very young girls could be seen in the crowd, none of menstrual age was spotted.

"No girl or woman in the age group of 10 and 50 has so far visited Sannidhanam (the temple complex) so far," a senior official of the Travancore Devaswom Board, the body which manages the shrine, told PTI wishing not to be named.

The shrine will remain open for the 5-day monthly pooja during the Malayalam month of Thulam before being closed on October 22.

The Pathanamthitta district authority has promulgated prohibitory orders under section 144 CrPC banning assembly of four or more people in strife-torn Pamba and Nilackal following Wednesday's violence and a strike called by right wing outfits. 
'Antharashtriya Hindu Parishad' led by Pravin Togadia and the 'Sabarimala Samrakshana Samithi', an outfit of devotees, have called a 24-hour-long hartal starting midnight.

The BJP and its NDA partners have backed a 12-hour 'hartal' called by Sabarimkala Action Council to protest the police action against devotees. The Congress said it would not join the strike but hold protest demonstrations across the state on Thursday.&nbsp;

The iron gates of Sabarimala temple opened Wednesday for the first time since the Supreme Court allowed women of menstrual age to enter the shrine but by all indications none from the "banned" age group could make it to its hallowed precincts amid a welter of protests and violent clashes.

The iron gates of Sabarimala temple opened Wednesday for the first time since the Supreme Court allowed women of menstrual age to enter the shrine but by all indications none from the "banned" age group could make it to its hallowed precincts amid a welter of protests and violent clashes. Women journalists were heckled, their vehicles smashed and young female Ayyappa devotees turned back as hordes of Hindu right activists besieged the road leading to the hill-top temple, abode to Lord Ayyappa, its eternally celibate deity, officials said. Chaos and mayhem ruled supreme on the road leading from Nilackal, the gateway to the shrine, to Pamba in the foothills from where the devotees start the arduous treck to Sabarimala, as activists of Hindu fringe groups fought pitched battles with police, leaving many injured and bleeding. Incensed over Kerala's Left Front government's decision not to file a review plea against the Supreme Court's September 28 landmark order, protesters pelted police with stones and the latter hit right back with vengeance wielding batons with telling effect, leaving many fallen and writhing in pain on the road. Several protesters were seen being bundled into police vehicles, while siren blaring ambulances carried some to hospitals. Simmering tension prevailing in Nilackal since morning erupted into raucous rowdyism as scores of activists of fringe groups heckled women journalists of at least four national TV channels and vandalised their vehicles. National TV showed protesters wearing black and saffron turbans running after their cars, violently pounding and kicking the vehicles in a bid to stop them from proceeding to Pamba from Nilackal on way to Sabarimala. At least 10 people from the media, including reporters and photojournalists, were injured and equipment of several of them damaged, senior minister E P Jayarajan said. Denouncing the attacks on media, he said cases were being registered against the suspects under sections relating to non-bailable offences. Unfazed by the unfolding violence, Madhavi, a gutsy woman from Andhra Pradesh in her 40s, tried to climb the Sabarimala hills to reach the Lord Ayyappa temple but was forced to return to Pamba, menaced by agitated male devotees. Liby, a woman from Kerala's Alappuzha, also in the "banned" age group, was prevented from proceeding to Sabarimala at Pathanamthitta bus terminal. She was escorted to safety by police. Both the Congress, the main opposition party in Kerala, and the BJP, which is desperately seeking to expand its footprint in the state, have lent support to the agitation against the Supreme Court verdict. State Congress working president K Sudhakaran led his party workers in a protest at Nilackal to express solidarity with Ayyappa devotees. An embattled Left Front government reacted sharply to the protests, with the state's religious trusts minister Kadakampally Surendran calling them "politically motivated". Surendran, who reviewed the situation and preparations for the three-month-long Mandalam-Makaravilakku-festival beginning November 17 at Sannidhanam (Sabarimala temple complex), said the government would tackle the agitation politically. "The BJP-RSS are trying to create tension and destroy the peaceful atmosphere in Kerala for political gain. We know the agenda of the RSS and BJP very well," he said, and insisted the government did not want any confrontation with believers. The BJP rejected the allegation, saying the government was responsible for the "collapse" of law and order. Party leader and MP V Muraleedharan said the government should shed its stubbornness and respect the sentiments of the people of Kerala. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala blamed both the ruling CPI(M) and the BJP-RSS combine for violence. Even as streets in Nilackal and Pamba erupted in tumult, thousands of bare-chested Ayyappa devotees waited patiently in the vast concourse outside Sabarimala for its gates to open at the appointed hour--5 pm. Carrying "Irumudikettu" (the sacred bundle containing ghee-filled coconuts they offer to the deity), they calmly walked past security personnel to take their place in the long queue where they would wait for hours on end for a glimpse of Lord Ayyappa. Though older women and very young girls could be seen in the crowd, none of menstrual age was spotted. "No girl or woman in the age group of 10 and 50 has so far visited Sannidhanam (the temple complex) so far," a senior official of the Travancore Devaswom Board, the body which manages the shrine, told PTI wishing not to be named. The shrine will remain open for the 5-day monthly pooja during the Malayalam month of Thulam before being closed on October 22. The Pathanamthitta district authority has promulgated prohibitory orders under section 144 CrPC banning assembly of four or more people in strife-torn Pamba and Nilackal following Wednesday's violence and a strike called by right wing outfits. 'Antharashtriya Hindu Parishad' led by Pravin Togadia and the 'Sabarimala Samrakshana Samithi', an outfit of devotees, have called a 24-hour-long hartal starting midnight. The BJP and its NDA partners have backed a 12-hour 'hartal' called by Sabarimkala Action Council to protest the police action against devotees. The Congress said it would not join the strike but hold protest demonstrations across the state on Thursday.

Gates of Kerala's Sabarimala open, women are not allowed to enter

#Metoo: Indian minister MJ Akbar resigns after sexual assault allegations

Roman Catholic bishop Franco Mulakkal, who faces allegations of raping a nun, received a rousing welcome from his supporters when he reached Jalandhar after being released on bail by a Kerala court.

Mulakkal smiled as followers showered rose petals on him. Till a few weeks ago, he held charge as the bishop of the Jalandhar diocese.

The bishop, who was escorted by Punjab police personnel, did not talk to the media.

He was granted conditional bail by the Kerala High Court on Monday, and released from a jail near Kottayam a day later.

He was arrested on September 21 after being accused of repeatedly raping and sexually abusing a nun between 2014 and 2016.

As the demands for his arrest grew, the Vatican temporarily relieved him of all pastoral responsibilities as the bishop of the Jalandhar Diocese of the Missionaries of Jesus.

While granting bail, the court had directed him to surrender his passport and not to enter home state Kerala except for appearing before the probe officer once in two weeks.

In her complaint to the Kottayam Police in June, the nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions.

The nun said in her complaint that she had to approach the police as the church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints.

Mulakkal, however, has denied the charges as "baseless and concocted," insisting she levelled them as the Catholic order had rejected her demands for favours.

Roman Catholic bishop Franco Mulakkal, who faces allegations of raping a nun, received a rousing welcome from his supporters when he reached Jalandhar after being released on bail by a Kerala court.

Roman Catholic bishop Franco Mulakkal, who faces allegations of raping a nun, received a rousing welcome from his supporters when he reached Jalandhar after being released on bail by a Kerala court. Mulakkal smiled as followers showered rose petals on him. Till a few weeks ago, he held charge as the bishop of the Jalandhar diocese. The bishop, who was escorted by Punjab police personnel, did not talk to the media. He was granted conditional bail by the Kerala High Court on Monday, and released from a jail near Kottayam a day later. He was arrested on September 21 after being accused of repeatedly raping and sexually abusing a nun between 2014 and 2016. As the demands for his arrest grew, the Vatican temporarily relieved him of all pastoral responsibilities as the bishop of the Jalandhar Diocese of the Missionaries of Jesus. While granting bail, the court had directed him to surrender his passport and not to enter home state Kerala except for appearing before the probe officer once in two weeks. In her complaint to the Kottayam Police in June, the nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions. The nun said in her complaint that she had to approach the police as the church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints. Mulakkal, however, has denied the charges as "baseless and concocted," insisting she levelled them as the Catholic order had rejected her demands for favours.

Rape-accused bishop arrives in Jalandhar, supporters shower rose petals on him

WION Gravitas: Sabarimala temple gates open after Supreme Court verdict

WION Gravitas: MJ Akbar Resigns as Union Minister

The Sri Lankan government has denied news reports quoting President Maithripala Sirisena as having said India's Research and Analysis Wing was plotting to assassinate him.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan government said the reports were "completely untrue".&nbsp;

The media reports came ahead of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to New Delhi for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speed up India-backed projects, including the East Terminal project, in the island nation.

Sirisena accused his senior coalition partner, the United National Party (UNP), of not taking seriously an alleged conspiracy to kill him and former secretary to the ministry of defence, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, the economynext.Com reported quoting a ministerial source after a heated Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

The minister, who declined to be named, claimed that the president said that India's external intelligence agency RAW was behind the plot.

On Wednesday, the Sri Lankan foreign ministry said it was "disappointing that matters of this nature have become the subject of distorted and erroneous media reports taking the President’s remarks out of context."&nbsp;

"The ministry wishes to clarify that the media reports in this connection are baseless and false," it added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The ministry further said that "President Sirisena had discussions this morning as well as a meeting with the High Commissioner of India in Colombo."&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The Sri Lankan government has denied news reports quoting President Maithripala Sirisena as having said India's Research and Analysis Wing was plotting to assassinate him.

The Sri Lankan government has denied news reports quoting President Maithripala Sirisena as having said India's Research and Analysis Wing was plotting to assassinate him. The Sri Lankan government said the reports were "completely untrue". The media reports came ahead of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to New Delhi for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speed up India-backed projects, including the East Terminal project, in the island nation. Sirisena accused his senior coalition partner, the United National Party (UNP), of not taking seriously an alleged conspiracy to kill him and former secretary to the ministry of defence, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, the economynext.Com reported quoting a ministerial source after a heated Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The minister, who declined to be named, claimed that the president said that India's external intelligence agency RAW was behind the plot. On Wednesday, the Sri Lankan foreign ministry said it was "disappointing that matters of this nature have become the subject of distorted and erroneous media reports taking the President’s remarks out of context." "The ministry wishes to clarify that the media reports in this connection are baseless and false," it added. The ministry further said that "President Sirisena had discussions this morning as well as a meeting with the High Commissioner of India in Colombo." (With inputs from PTI)

Sri Lanka says its President did not allege India's RAW was trying to assassinate him

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday.

The drill will be held in China, the sources added.&nbsp;

The last 'Hand-in-Hand' exercise took place in Pune in 2016. However, the drill did not take place in 2017 due to tensions between the two armies over Doklam, where the forces of India and China were locked in a 73-day stand-off.&nbsp;

Doklam, in the Sikkim sector, is a strategically important area which is claimed by Bhutan. India has been acting as security guarantor to the tiny country in the sensitive region.

Post Doklam, India and China have been working to increase cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April.

In August, Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe visited Delhi during which the two sides decided to work towards firming up a new bilateral pact on defence cooperation and agreed to increase interactions between their militaries at multiple levels to avoid Doklam-like standoffs along the disputed border.

In March, Army Chief Bipin Rawat had said the annual India-China military exercise will resume, noting that the relationship between the two countries which had turned "sour" after the Doklam stand-off was now improving.

The "bonhomie" between the two forces was back, Rawat had said.&nbsp;

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday. The drill will be held in China, the sources added.

The armies of India and China will resume their annual bilateral military exercise 'Hand in Hand' in December, Army sources said Wednesday. The drill will be held in China, the sources added. The last 'Hand-in-Hand' exercise took place in Pune in 2016. However, the drill did not take place in 2017 due to tensions between the two armies over Doklam, where the forces of India and China were locked in a 73-day stand-off. Doklam, in the Sikkim sector, is a strategically important area which is claimed by Bhutan. India has been acting as security guarantor to the tiny country in the sensitive region. Post Doklam, India and China have been working to increase cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April. In August, Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe visited Delhi during which the two sides decided to work towards firming up a new bilateral pact on defence cooperation and agreed to increase interactions between their militaries at multiple levels to avoid Doklam-like standoffs along the disputed border. In March, Army Chief Bipin Rawat had said the annual India-China military exercise will resume, noting that the relationship between the two countries which had turned "sour" after the Doklam stand-off was now improving. The "bonhomie" between the two forces was back, Rawat had said.

Armies of India, China to resume annual military drill in December

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now.

While the Congress termed the resignation as "victory of truth", it asked whether the prime minister will dare to speak up now.

The Left parties said Akbar's resignation was a victory for the #MeToo movement and the protests carried out by them against the journalist-turned-politician.&nbsp;

The CPI and the women's wing of CPI-M, however, said Akbar should have resigned early and the action has come "too late".

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said this was insufficient and sought criminal proceedings against Akbar.

Congress leader Ragini Naik said the silence of Modi on the #MeToo movement is deafening, as she accused the government as being "misogynist" which has "deceived" those crores of women voters who placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014.

"Times is up Modi ji. The silence of PM Modi on #MeToo movement is deafening.&nbsp;

"The silence of Prime Minister Modi has deceived those crores of women voters who had placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014," she told reporters.

"Now that M J Akbar, who has been accused by no less than 36 women of misconduct and harassment, has finally resigned, will PM Modi dare to speak up," Naik asked.&nbsp;

"I think the Modi government was compelled to ask M J Akbar to resign from the Union ministry as the #MeToo movement gained momentum in the country. He should have resigned on the first day when his former colleagues made sexual harassment allegations against him," CPI general secretary Sudhakar Reddy said.&nbsp;

Slamming Akbar for the delay in tendering his resignation, he said, "It is too late".&nbsp;

CPI Secretary D Raja said, "The resignation can be called a moral victory for all those women who have suffered such sexual harassment".&nbsp;

He said the social atmosphere in the country was such that women can get the confidence to speak up against the sexual harassment faced by them.

The AAP Wednesday hailed the women who accused Akbar of "sexual harassment" and said his resignation "completely exposed" the 'Chaal, Charitra and Chehra' of the ruling BJP at the Centre.

Reacting to Akbar's resignation, AAP spokesperson Dilip Pandey said the action was "not sufficient" and demanded criminal proceedings against him.

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said she saluted those women who stood on their charges against the minister bravely despite the "brazen" stance taken by the government.

"This resignation is a vindication of the power of truth. More strength to India's women," she said.

"The resignation of MoS External Affairs MJ Akbar after serious charges were levelled against him by senior women journalists who worked with him is a vindication of the power of truth even if it began with one brave person speaking up," she said.

Mahila Congress chief Sushmita Dev termed Akbar's stepping down as a "moral victory" for everyone and sought support for the #MeToo movement across party lines.

"M J Akbar's resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines," she tweeted.

"I admire the courage of @priyaramani &amp; all the victims who spoke out against sexual harassment &amp; abuse. @mjakbar s resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines. "

Naik said the Congress believes that the belated resignation of Akbar is a result of the persistent pressure put by women who have shared their horrific and uncomfortable stories.&nbsp;

It is also a vindication of the Congress party's unequivocal stand on the #MeToo movement, she said.

"We also think that it is a time for a fair trial so that justice prevails. This country has a rule of law and the Congress Party believes that any allegation levelled against anybody must pass this test of justice. We hope and wish that all the women fighting this tough battle would be heard and finally justice would be imparted," she said.&nbsp;

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now.

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now. While the Congress termed the resignation as "victory of truth", it asked whether the prime minister will dare to speak up now. The Left parties said Akbar's resignation was a victory for the #MeToo movement and the protests carried out by them against the journalist-turned-politician. The CPI and the women's wing of CPI-M, however, said Akbar should have resigned early and the action has come "too late". The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said this was insufficient and sought criminal proceedings against Akbar. Congress leader Ragini Naik said the silence of Modi on the #MeToo movement is deafening, as she accused the government as being "misogynist" which has "deceived" those crores of women voters who placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014. "Times is up Modi ji. The silence of PM Modi on #MeToo movement is deafening. "The silence of Prime Minister Modi has deceived those crores of women voters who had placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014," she told reporters. "Now that M J Akbar, who has been accused by no less than 36 women of misconduct and harassment, has finally resigned, will PM Modi dare to speak up," Naik asked. "I think the Modi government was compelled to ask M J Akbar to resign from the Union ministry as the #MeToo movement gained momentum in the country. He should have resigned on the first day when his former colleagues made sexual harassment allegations against him," CPI general secretary Sudhakar Reddy said. Slamming Akbar for the delay in tendering his resignation, he said, "It is too late". CPI Secretary D Raja said, "The resignation can be called a moral victory for all those women who have suffered such sexual harassment". He said the social atmosphere in the country was such that women can get the confidence to speak up against the sexual harassment faced by them. The AAP Wednesday hailed the women who accused Akbar of "sexual harassment" and said his resignation "completely exposed" the 'Chaal, Charitra and Chehra' of the ruling BJP at the Centre. Reacting to Akbar's resignation, AAP spokesperson Dilip Pandey said the action was "not sufficient" and demanded criminal proceedings against him. Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said she saluted those women who stood on their charges against the minister bravely despite the "brazen" stance taken by the government. "This resignation is a vindication of the power of truth. More strength to India's women," she said. "The resignation of MoS External Affairs MJ Akbar after serious charges were levelled against him by senior women journalists who worked with him is a vindication of the power of truth even if it began with one brave person speaking up," she said. Mahila Congress chief Sushmita Dev termed Akbar's stepping down as a "moral victory" for everyone and sought support for the #MeToo movement across party lines. "M J Akbar's resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines," she tweeted. "I admire the courage of @priyaramani & all the victims who spoke out against sexual harassment & abuse. @mjakbar s resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines. " Naik said the Congress believes that the belated resignation of Akbar is a result of the persistent pressure put by women who have shared their horrific and uncomfortable stories. It is also a vindication of the Congress party's unequivocal stand on the #MeToo movement, she said. "We also think that it is a time for a fair trial so that justice prevails. This country has a rule of law and the Congress Party believes that any allegation levelled against anybody must pass this test of justice. We hope and wish that all the women fighting this tough battle would be heard and finally justice would be imparted," she said.

Left says Akbar resignation has come 'too late', Congress dares PM to speak up

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