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The death toll in Cyclone Titli and subsequent floods has mounted to 57, including 10 children, while loss suffered due to the calamity has been pegged at over Rs 2,200 crore, the Odisha government said Wednesday.

The government, earlier in the day, had confirmed 52 deaths due to the calamity that ravaged many parts of the state, mainly the southern region, last week.

Ten people were missing following landslides in Gajapati district and a clearer picture would emerge once information about them is obtained, Chief Secretary A P Padhi said here, after a review meeting with officials.

The state government has information of about 57 deaths from various affected areas so far, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said.

He added the casualties mainly resulted from incidents like landslides, wall collapses and drowning.

While 39 deaths were reported from "worst-affected Gajapati district", 12 casualties were reported from Ganjam district and two from Kandhamal district, Sethi said.

Four persons -- one each from Cuttack, Angul, Keonjhar and Nayagarh districts -- were killed during the disaster, he said.

The dead included 10 children and 19 women, said an official.

"As per preliminary assessment, the loss suffered in different sectors, including infrastructure and agriculture, was estimated at around Rs 2,200 crore. It will take a day or two to get a full report on the total loss incurred due to the disaster," Sethi said.

Noting that restoration and relief work was in progress across the state, the chief secretary said, "95 per cent of the damaged roads have been repaired."

"Almost all thoroughfares have been repaired and power and drinking water supply restored in the urban areas. In rural areas, work is still in progress to bring back normalcy," Padhi added.

He said medical teams were visiting the affected areas and no major health issue has cropped anywhere until now.

The relief material has reached all panchayat areas for distribution among the affected people, Padhi added.

A senior government official said restoration and relief operations were being carried out by using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).

The state will approach the Centre for necessary assistance after "exact assessment" of the damages, he said.

As many as 16 of the 30 districts of the state were ravaged by heavy rain and floods following the landfall of Cyclone Titli last Thursday near Palasa in Andhra Pradesh, southwest of Gopalpur in Odisha.&nbsp;

The death toll in Cyclone Titli and subsequent floods has mounted to 57, including 10 children, while loss suffered due to the calamity has been pegged at over Rs 2,200 crore, the Odisha government said Wednesday.

The death toll in Cyclone Titli and subsequent floods has mounted to 57, including 10 children, while loss suffered due to the calamity has been pegged at over Rs 2,200 crore, the Odisha government said Wednesday. The government, earlier in the day, had confirmed 52 deaths due to the calamity that ravaged many parts of the state, mainly the southern region, last week. Ten people were missing following landslides in Gajapati district and a clearer picture would emerge once information about them is obtained, Chief Secretary A P Padhi said here, after a review meeting with officials. The state government has information of about 57 deaths from various affected areas so far, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. He added the casualties mainly resulted from incidents like landslides, wall collapses and drowning. While 39 deaths were reported from "worst-affected Gajapati district", 12 casualties were reported from Ganjam district and two from Kandhamal district, Sethi said. Four persons -- one each from Cuttack, Angul, Keonjhar and Nayagarh districts -- were killed during the disaster, he said. The dead included 10 children and 19 women, said an official. "As per preliminary assessment, the loss suffered in different sectors, including infrastructure and agriculture, was estimated at around Rs 2,200 crore. It will take a day or two to get a full report on the total loss incurred due to the disaster," Sethi said. Noting that restoration and relief work was in progress across the state, the chief secretary said, "95 per cent of the damaged roads have been repaired." "Almost all thoroughfares have been repaired and power and drinking water supply restored in the urban areas. In rural areas, work is still in progress to bring back normalcy," Padhi added. He said medical teams were visiting the affected areas and no major health issue has cropped anywhere until now. The relief material has reached all panchayat areas for distribution among the affected people, Padhi added. A senior government official said restoration and relief operations were being carried out by using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The state will approach the Centre for necessary assistance after "exact assessment" of the damages, he said. As many as 16 of the 30 districts of the state were ravaged by heavy rain and floods following the landfall of Cyclone Titli last Thursday near Palasa in Andhra Pradesh, southwest of Gopalpur in Odisha.

Toll in cyclone-hit Odisha rises to 57, relief work on: Government

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday.

PM Modi stated this in a video interaction with Bharatiya Janata Party workers during which he spoke at length about his government's works to celebrate the contributions of many personalities who, he said, were neglected by the Congress in its rule of several decades.

He also hit out at the Congress over its criticism of him and the BJP government in Gujarat over Sardar Patel's statue project, claiming that the opposition party was in fact insulting Patel as it always had contempt for the country's first home minister, credited for uniting hundreds of princely states.

History knows that the Congress had a lot of contempt for Patel and it could never tolerate him being recognised for his works, Modi said, attacking the opposition party for its "Made in China" jibe at the project.&nbsp;

The Statue of Unity, said to be tallest in the world, will help the young generations appreciate Patel's contributions, he added.

While the Congress neglected the likes of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Bose and Patel, the BJP believed in remembering everybody who contributed to nation-building, he said, citing his government's works, including constructing museums for noted tribal personalities and developing five places linked to Dalit icon Ambedkar.

"We respect everybody who served the country," he said while noting that he recently inaugurated a statue of Sir Chhotu Ram in Haryana.&nbsp;

He was a multi-faceted personality and people should read about him, Modi said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday. PM Modi stated this in a video interaction with Bharatiya Janata Party workers during which he spoke at length about his government's works to celebrate the contributions of many personalities who, he said, were neglected by the Congress in its rule of several decades. He also hit out at the Congress over its criticism of him and the BJP government in Gujarat over Sardar Patel's statue project, claiming that the opposition party was in fact insulting Patel as it always had contempt for the country's first home minister, credited for uniting hundreds of princely states. History knows that the Congress had a lot of contempt for Patel and it could never tolerate him being recognised for his works, Modi said, attacking the opposition party for its "Made in China" jibe at the project. The Statue of Unity, said to be tallest in the world, will help the young generations appreciate Patel's contributions, he added. While the Congress neglected the likes of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Bose and Patel, the BJP believed in remembering everybody who contributed to nation-building, he said, citing his government's works, including constructing museums for noted tribal personalities and developing five places linked to Dalit icon Ambedkar. "We respect everybody who served the country," he said while noting that he recently inaugurated a statue of Sir Chhotu Ram in Haryana. He was a multi-faceted personality and people should read about him, Modi said.

Will attend flag hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21: PM Modi

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said.

Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Fateh Kadal area of the city following an information about the presence of terrorists&nbsp;there, he said.

A policeman was also injured during the encounter, a senior police officer said.

The operation turned into an encounter after the&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;opened fire on security forces.

The operation was going on till last reports came in.&nbsp;

The district administration has closed all schools and educational institution in the city as a precautionary measure and internet services on moblie have also been snapped.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said. Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Fateh Kadal area of the city following an information about the presence of terrorists there, he said. A policeman was also injured during the encounter, a senior police officer said. The operation turned into an encounter after the terrorists opened fire on security forces. The operation was going on till last reports came in. The district administration has closed all schools and educational institution in the city as a precautionary measure and internet services on moblie have also been snapped.

Encounter underway in J&K; 3 terrorists killed

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together.

DMK chief M K Stalin said the party took stock of the political situation at its high-level executive committee meeting.

"We discussed the Lok Sabha polls next year and the stand to be taken in case the Assembly election is to be held alongside the Parliamentary polls," he told reporters.

The party also looked at its ties with its allies, he said.

Congress and Indian Union Muslim League are among the allies of DMK.

"We had a broad discussion about all electoral issues. Soon, a meeting of party's top functionaries will be held to be followed by the general council meeting and ahead of elections we will reveal our stand," Stalin said.

To a question on the number of seats the DMK would contest, he said such things cannot be disclosed now.

On the proposed unveiling of a statue of late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, he said it would be announced after finalising the date.

Stalin's reference to Assembly election was an apparent indication about the stability question faced by the ruling AIADMK in view of the 18 MLAs disqualification case pending in the Madras High Court.

After a split verdict in June, the matter was heard by Justice M Sathyanarayanan who reserved order in August.

In the 234-member House, AIADMK has 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker and its 18 MLAs who were disqualified after they sided with now Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader T T V Dhinakaran.

Two seats are vacant following the deaths of Tiruvarur MLA M Karunanidhi and Tiruparankundram MLA A K Bose (AIADMK).

Also, S Karunas, who won the 2016 Assembly poll from Thiruvadanai on AIADMK's two-leaves symbol, has openly come out against the AIADMK government.

DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress eight and IUML one.

Following electoral drubbings in the 2011 Assembly election, 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the 2016 Assembly election, the DMK is faced with the task of making a comeback.

The Lok Sabha election will be an acid test for Stalin who became the party chief after the death of his father and party patriach M Karunanidhi in August.&nbsp;

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together.

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together. DMK chief M K Stalin said the party took stock of the political situation at its high-level executive committee meeting. "We discussed the Lok Sabha polls next year and the stand to be taken in case the Assembly election is to be held alongside the Parliamentary polls," he told reporters. The party also looked at its ties with its allies, he said. Congress and Indian Union Muslim League are among the allies of DMK. "We had a broad discussion about all electoral issues. Soon, a meeting of party's top functionaries will be held to be followed by the general council meeting and ahead of elections we will reveal our stand," Stalin said. To a question on the number of seats the DMK would contest, he said such things cannot be disclosed now. On the proposed unveiling of a statue of late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, he said it would be announced after finalising the date. Stalin's reference to Assembly election was an apparent indication about the stability question faced by the ruling AIADMK in view of the 18 MLAs disqualification case pending in the Madras High Court. After a split verdict in June, the matter was heard by Justice M Sathyanarayanan who reserved order in August. In the 234-member House, AIADMK has 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker and its 18 MLAs who were disqualified after they sided with now Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader T T V Dhinakaran. Two seats are vacant following the deaths of Tiruvarur MLA M Karunanidhi and Tiruparankundram MLA A K Bose (AIADMK). Also, S Karunas, who won the 2016 Assembly poll from Thiruvadanai on AIADMK's two-leaves symbol, has openly come out against the AIADMK government. DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress eight and IUML one. Following electoral drubbings in the 2011 Assembly election, 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the 2016 Assembly election, the DMK is faced with the task of making a comeback. The Lok Sabha election will be an acid test for Stalin who became the party chief after the death of his father and party patriach M Karunanidhi in August.

DMK sets ball rolling to face Lok Sabha, Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot, considered to be in the chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, today indicated it will be too early to speculate on who will be the CM if the party wins in December 7 Assembly polls.

Citing popular TV serial 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' (KBC), Gehlot quipped, "Does anyone know before-hand who will become 'kaun banega crorepati'."

He was asked by reporters at the AICC media briefing as to who will be the chief minister of Rajasthan if the Congress wins the December 7 Assembly polls.

KBC is a popular TV serial hosted by noted actor Amitabh Bachchan.

Gehlot's response drew peals of laughter from those present, including Rajasthan PCC chief Sachin Pilot, at the press conference to announce former BJP MLA Manvendra Singh's joining the Congress.

A former chief minister of Rajasthan, Gehlot is now the AICC general secretary and is in-charge of the organisation. He is locked in the race for chief ministership with Pilot.

The Congress has not yet declared a chief ministerial candidate for the state, where it is gearing up to dethrone the Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government.

Rajasthan has traditionally not re-elected any party to power.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot, considered to be in the chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, today indicated it will be too early to speculate on who will be the CM if the party wins in December 7 Assembly polls.

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot, considered to be in the chief ministerial race in Rajasthan, today indicated it will be too early to speculate on who will be the CM if the party wins in December 7 Assembly polls. Citing popular TV serial 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' (KBC), Gehlot quipped, "Does anyone know before-hand who will become 'kaun banega crorepati'." He was asked by reporters at the AICC media briefing as to who will be the chief minister of Rajasthan if the Congress wins the December 7 Assembly polls. KBC is a popular TV serial hosted by noted actor Amitabh Bachchan. Gehlot's response drew peals of laughter from those present, including Rajasthan PCC chief Sachin Pilot, at the press conference to announce former BJP MLA Manvendra Singh's joining the Congress. A former chief minister of Rajasthan, Gehlot is now the AICC general secretary and is in-charge of the organisation. He is locked in the race for chief ministership with Pilot. The Congress has not yet declared a chief ministerial candidate for the state, where it is gearing up to dethrone the Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government. Rajasthan has traditionally not re-elected any party to power.

Ashok Gehlot evades query on who will be CM if Congress wins in Rajasthan

The AAP Wednesday launched a 15-second video featuring its national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealing for donations to promote the "honestly working" Delhi government.&nbsp;

The public donation drive titled "Aap Ka Daan, Rashtra Ka Nirman" was launched by Kejriwal on Monday.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which rules in Delhi, has plans to contest the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The party is also hopeful of contesting the Lok Sabha polls in a "focussed manner" in several states, especially Delhi, Punjab and Haryana.&nbsp;

Claiming that the party is "pauper'', the AAP dispensation in Delhi is urging people to donate generously to safeguard an "honest government".&nbsp;

"The Delhi government is working honestly because AAP runs on your donations. We need funds to contest elections. No matter how much but do give donations to AAP so we can continue to work with honesty," the chief minister says in the video that appeared on social media.&nbsp;

Under the party campaign for monthly donations, the AAP has launched a mobile number on which people can place missed calls if they are willing to donate. The minimum donation amount is Rs 100 per month.

Party leaders said Kejriwal himself would seek donations by going door-to-door after Diwali.

The Delhi chief minister had on Monday announced that he would donate Rs 10,000, his wife and daughter Rs 5,000 each and his father Rs 500 per month to the party fund.

The AAP Wednesday launched a 15-second video featuring its national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealing for donations to promote the "honestly working" Delhi government.

The AAP Wednesday launched a 15-second video featuring its national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealing for donations to promote the "honestly working" Delhi government. The public donation drive titled "Aap Ka Daan, Rashtra Ka Nirman" was launched by Kejriwal on Monday. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which rules in Delhi, has plans to contest the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The party is also hopeful of contesting the Lok Sabha polls in a "focussed manner" in several states, especially Delhi, Punjab and Haryana. Claiming that the party is "pauper'', the AAP dispensation in Delhi is urging people to donate generously to safeguard an "honest government". "The Delhi government is working honestly because AAP runs on your donations. We need funds to contest elections. No matter how much but do give donations to AAP so we can continue to work with honesty," the chief minister says in the video that appeared on social media. Under the party campaign for monthly donations, the AAP has launched a mobile number on which people can place missed calls if they are willing to donate. The minimum donation amount is Rs 100 per month. Party leaders said Kejriwal himself would seek donations by going door-to-door after Diwali. The Delhi chief minister had on Monday announced that he would donate Rs 10,000, his wife and daughter Rs 5,000 each and his father Rs 500 per month to the party fund.

AAP launches video seeking donations to promote 'honest' Delhi government

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President Trump kept the heat on the Saudi Arabian government over the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi asserting that it "would be bad" if they know about the Saudi journalist's fate.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tension-prevails-in-nilackal-ahead-of-sabarimalas-opening-police-evict-protesters-171827">Tension prevails in Nilackal ahead of Sabarimala's opening; police evict protesters</a>

Tension prevailed Wednesday morning in Kerala's Nilackal, the main gateway to Sabarimala, after the police used force to disperse devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the hill shrine.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-down-worldwide-users-unable-to-access-the-video-sharing-website-171822">YouTube down worldwide, users unable to access the video-sharing website</a>

YouTube is down across the world leaving users unable to access the video-sharing website. The outage appeared to be worldwide as visitors were met with a 500 internal server error.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/west-asia/mastermind-behind-attack-on-military-parade-arrested-iran-171819">'Mastermind' behind </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/west-asia/mastermind-behind-attack-on-military-parade-arrested-iran-171819">attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/west-asia/mastermind-behind-attack-on-military-parade-arrested-iran-171819"> on military parade arrested: Iran</a>

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday they had killed the "mastermind" behind an attack on a military parade in the Iranian city of Ahvaz last month which left 25 people dead, nearly half of them members of the Guards.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-under-pressure-to-quit-lanka-unity-government-171818">Sri Lanka: President Sirisena under pressure to quit </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-under-pressure-to-quit-lanka-unity-government-171818">Lanka</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-under-pressure-to-quit-lanka-unity-government-171818"> unity government</a>

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has come under intense pressure from a section of his party to take his Sri Lanka Freedom Party out of the ruling coalition with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremsinghe's United National Party.&nbsp;

Bad things can happen if Saudi Arabia knows about Khashoggi, warns Trump President Trump kept the heat on the Saudi Arabian government over the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi asserting that it "would be bad" if they know about the Saudi journalist's fate.

Bad things can happen if Saudi Arabia knows about Khashoggi, warns Trump President Trump kept the heat on the Saudi Arabian government over the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi asserting that it "would be bad" if they know about the Saudi journalist's fate. Tension prevails in Nilackal ahead of Sabarimala's opening; police evict protesters Tension prevailed Wednesday morning in Kerala's Nilackal, the main gateway to Sabarimala, after the police used force to disperse devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the hill shrine. YouTube down worldwide, users unable to access the video-sharing website YouTube is down across the world leaving users unable to access the video-sharing website. The outage appeared to be worldwide as visitors were met with a 500 internal server error. 'Mastermind' behind attack on military parade arrested: Iran Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday they had killed the "mastermind" behind an attack on a military parade in the Iranian city of Ahvaz last month which left 25 people dead, nearly half of them members of the Guards. Sri Lanka: President Sirisena under pressure to quit Lanka unity government Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has come under intense pressure from a section of his party to take his Sri Lanka Freedom Party out of the ruling coalition with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremsinghe's United National Party.

News Brief: Big stories of the day

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a&nbsp;state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency.

The state&nbsp;however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma speaks with Tanwar about the BSP-INLD coalition and taking on the BJP in the assembly and general elections. Here are excerpts from the interview:&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
Kartikeya Sharma: Your state has neither had&nbsp;an AICC-in-charge nor have district and local-level committees been formed...

Ashok Tanwar: The committees will be formed in due time. There are many reasons for it and I do not want to go into them. Beyond the committees, the organisation has done well for itself. 
&nbsp; 
KS: Congress was talking about a&nbsp;mahagathbandhan&nbsp;against the BJP, and now there is a gathbandhan against the Congress in Haryana...

AT: It is an ineffective coalition. Chautala’s party refused to wear the headgear given by the BSP. Two non-compatible constituencies have come together. It will not succeed. On the other hand, BJP also does not want to face the electorate and it is for this reason by-elections have not taken place in Haryana. BJP has lost goodwill in the state. 
&nbsp; 
KS: There is no unity in your state. You have more leaders than workers...

AT: &nbsp;We have more workers than leaders. We have run a very good anti-government campaign. Our campaign has been door-to-door. Congress in Haryana has regained very quickly, which is unlike many other states. 
&nbsp; 
KS: Are you friends with Randeep Surjewala&nbsp;and Bhupinder Singh Hooda?

AT: I have a great equation with both of them. I do not have any personal fight with any of the leaders in the state. I expect good support from them. Our rallies have also done well. 
&nbsp; 
KS: What is the challenge before the Congress in the state?

AT:&nbsp;Most of the challenges have been met. We are preparing for elections as we feel that Haryana assembly elections can be held simultaneously with Lol Sabha elections in 2019. The organisational challenge&nbsp;has been met through intense campaigning against the incumbent government. 
&nbsp;

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency. The state however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency. The state however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress. WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma speaks with Tanwar about the BSP-INLD coalition and taking on the BJP in the assembly and general elections. Here are excerpts from the interview: Kartikeya Sharma: Your state has neither had an AICC-in-charge nor have district and local-level committees been formed... Ashok Tanwar: The committees will be formed in due time. There are many reasons for it and I do not want to go into them. Beyond the committees, the organisation has done well for itself. KS: Congress was talking about a mahagathbandhan against the BJP, and now there is a gathbandhan against the Congress in Haryana... AT: It is an ineffective coalition. Chautala’s party refused to wear the headgear given by the BSP. Two non-compatible constituencies have come together. It will not succeed. On the other hand, BJP also does not want to face the electorate and it is for this reason by-elections have not taken place in Haryana. BJP has lost goodwill in the state. KS: There is no unity in your state. You have more leaders than workers... AT: We have more workers than leaders. We have run a very good anti-government campaign. Our campaign has been door-to-door. Congress in Haryana has regained very quickly, which is unlike many other states. KS: Are you friends with Randeep Surjewala and Bhupinder Singh Hooda? AT: I have a great equation with both of them. I do not have any personal fight with any of the leaders in the state. I expect good support from them. Our rallies have also done well. KS: What is the challenge before the Congress in the state? AT: Most of the challenges have been met. We are preparing for elections as we feel that Haryana assembly elections can be held simultaneously with Lol Sabha elections in 2019. The organisational challenge has been met through intense campaigning against the incumbent government.

INLD-BSP coalition will not work in Haryana: State Congress chief Ashok Tanwar to WION

A rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in the largest city in southern Israel early on Wednesday, prompting Israeli air strikes that killed a militant in the Palestinian enclave.

The attacks came a day after Egyptian mediators started a round of talks with officials from the Hamas Islamist group that controls Gaza, as part of efforts to negotiate a long-term ceasefire after months of violence along the border with Israel.

The rocket hit a two-storey house in Beersheba before dawn, the Israeli military said. It gutted most of the home, blowing out concrete walls and its stone facade, showering its yard and an adjacent street with rubble.

The family living there managed to take shelter in a reinforced room after alert sirens sounded, said officials in the city about 40 km (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip.

Another rocket launched from Gaza and aimed at central Israel fell into the Mediterranean Sea, the military said.

After the attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations with his defence minister and military and security chiefs at army headquarters near the Gaza border.

He said that in a statement that unless attacks from Gaza ceased, "Israel will act with great force" to stop them.

With a nod to the Egyptian talks, Hamas and other major militant groups in Gaza took the unusual step of denying responsibility for Wednesday's launchings, saying they rejected "all irresponsible attempts to sabotage the Egyptian effort, including the firing of the rockets".

There was no immediate claim of responsibility from any of the other smaller groups that operate in Gaza, and by mid-afternoon the area was quiet.

Israeli minister Tzachi Hanegbi told Israel Radio there was evidence to back up the Hamas statement. But he said Israeli policy dictated an "immediate and forceful retaliation" against Hamas targets because the organisation controls Gaza.

The European Union, in a statement from Brussels, said indiscriminate attacks against civilians were completely unacceptable and mortar and rocket fire by Palestinian militants must stop immediately.

Israel's military said it struck armed training camps in Gaza and also targeted a squad about to launch a rocket.

Health officials in Gaza said a 25-year-old Palestinian man, identified by Al-Mujahedeen Brigades, a small militant faction, as one of its members, was killed. Five other Palestinians were wounded in separate attacks.

Many people in Gaza awoke to the sounds of explosions. Families crowded into a nearby hospital where the dead man's mother collapsed over his body.

Pillars of smoke rose from the sites bombed by Israel, including a port Hamas is constructing in the southern Gaza Strip and a naval police position.

A senior Egyptian delegation has been holding talks with Hamas in Gaza since Tuesday on a ceasefire with Israel and ways to end 11 years of division with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah faction in the occupied West Bank.

A Palestinian source said Egyptian officials in Gaza have been in touch with Israel to try to avoid further escalation.

Palestinians have been protesting along the border since March 30, demanding an end to Israel's blockade of Gaza and the right to return to lands that Palestinians fled or were driven from upon Israel’s founding in 1948.

Around 200 Gazans have been killed by Israeli troops since the border protests began, according to Palestinian Health Ministry figures. Palestinians have launched incendiary balloons and kites into Israel and on occasion breached an Israeli frontier fence.

More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders. Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.

In addition to sporadic incidents, Israel and Hamas have fought three wars in the past 10 years. The internationally-mediated peace process aimed at finding a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is all but moribund.

A rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in the largest city in southern Israel early on Wednesday, prompting Israeli air strikes that killed a militant in the Palestinian enclave.

A rocket fired from the Gaza Strip hit a house in the largest city in southern Israel early on Wednesday, prompting Israeli air strikes that killed a militant in the Palestinian enclave. The attacks came a day after Egyptian mediators started a round of talks with officials from the Hamas Islamist group that controls Gaza, as part of efforts to negotiate a long-term ceasefire after months of violence along the border with Israel. The rocket hit a two-storey house in Beersheba before dawn, the Israeli military said. It gutted most of the home, blowing out concrete walls and its stone facade, showering its yard and an adjacent street with rubble. The family living there managed to take shelter in a reinforced room after alert sirens sounded, said officials in the city about 40 km (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip. Another rocket launched from Gaza and aimed at central Israel fell into the Mediterranean Sea, the military said. After the attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations with his defence minister and military and security chiefs at army headquarters near the Gaza border. He said that in a statement that unless attacks from Gaza ceased, "Israel will act with great force" to stop them. With a nod to the Egyptian talks, Hamas and other major militant groups in Gaza took the unusual step of denying responsibility for Wednesday's launchings, saying they rejected "all irresponsible attempts to sabotage the Egyptian effort, including the firing of the rockets". There was no immediate claim of responsibility from any of the other smaller groups that operate in Gaza, and by mid-afternoon the area was quiet. Israeli minister Tzachi Hanegbi told Israel Radio there was evidence to back up the Hamas statement. But he said Israeli policy dictated an "immediate and forceful retaliation" against Hamas targets because the organisation controls Gaza. The European Union, in a statement from Brussels, said indiscriminate attacks against civilians were completely unacceptable and mortar and rocket fire by Palestinian militants must stop immediately. Israel's military said it struck armed training camps in Gaza and also targeted a squad about to launch a rocket. Health officials in Gaza said a 25-year-old Palestinian man, identified by Al-Mujahedeen Brigades, a small militant faction, as one of its members, was killed. Five other Palestinians were wounded in separate attacks. Many people in Gaza awoke to the sounds of explosions. Families crowded into a nearby hospital where the dead man's mother collapsed over his body. Pillars of smoke rose from the sites bombed by Israel, including a port Hamas is constructing in the southern Gaza Strip and a naval police position. A senior Egyptian delegation has been holding talks with Hamas in Gaza since Tuesday on a ceasefire with Israel and ways to end 11 years of division with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah faction in the occupied West Bank. A Palestinian source said Egyptian officials in Gaza have been in touch with Israel to try to avoid further escalation. Palestinians have been protesting along the border since March 30, demanding an end to Israel's blockade of Gaza and the right to return to lands that Palestinians fled or were driven from upon Israel’s founding in 1948. Around 200 Gazans have been killed by Israeli troops since the border protests began, according to Palestinian Health Ministry figures. Palestinians have launched incendiary balloons and kites into Israel and on occasion breached an Israeli frontier fence. More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders. Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border. In addition to sporadic incidents, Israel and Hamas have fought three wars in the past 10 years. The internationally-mediated peace process aimed at finding a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is all but moribund.

Palestinian rocket attack on Israeli city draws Gaza air strikes

Every dog has its day, they say. But dogs and their owners in Hyderabad are going to have every day a special day starting from October 18.&nbsp;

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is opening what is touted as&nbsp;"First Dog Park'' in the country dedicated especially to dogs and their owners.&nbsp;

Built at a cost of Rs 1.1 crore on 1.3 acres, this Dog Park is located in Kondapur area on the western side of Hyderabad city.

"There were lot of requests from dog owners to have a dedicated place wherein they can bring in their dogs for recreation because in normal parks people object the presence of dogs due to various reasons,'' says D.Harichandana, IAS, Zonal Commissioner of GHMC, who herself is a dog lover and the brain behind this Dog Park while speaking to Zee Media.

"There are many benefits both for dogs and its owners from this dedicated park wherein they can relax and there will be a Vet in case any dog needs medical attention,'' adds D.Harichandana.

<img alt="First dog park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="00f59247-6885-42a5-ad4d-99e03e26faed" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/dog.JPG" />

Every day this park will be open from 6 am to 10 pm. Nearly 100 dogs can be accommodated at a time which has walking track, clinic, splash pool among various other facilities. Also, there are different enclosures for big and small dogs.

"This is a good move and I appreciate it. Right now we cannot take our dogs to regular parks as some people do not like it. Certainly, it will help dogs and their owners to have such dedicated place,'' says Kishore Reddy, a dog lover and also Life Member of Kennel Club of India.

Depending on the footfalls and the response this Dog Park generates, the GHMC has plans to create atleast couple of more such places in other parts of the city.

Every dog has its day, they say. But dogs and their owners in Hyderabad are going to have every day a special day starting from October 18. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is opening what is touted as "First Dog Park'' in the country dedicated especially to dogs and their owners.

Every dog has its day, they say. But dogs and their owners in Hyderabad are going to have every day a special day starting from October 18. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is opening what is touted as "First Dog Park'' in the country dedicated especially to dogs and their owners. Built at a cost of Rs 1.1 crore on 1.3 acres, this Dog Park is located in Kondapur area on the western side of Hyderabad city. "There were lot of requests from dog owners to have a dedicated place wherein they can bring in their dogs for recreation because in normal parks people object the presence of dogs due to various reasons,'' says D.Harichandana, IAS, Zonal Commissioner of GHMC, who herself is a dog lover and the brain behind this Dog Park while speaking to Zee Media. "There are many benefits both for dogs and its owners from this dedicated park wherein they can relax and there will be a Vet in case any dog needs medical attention,'' adds D.Harichandana. Every day this park will be open from 6 am to 10 pm. Nearly 100 dogs can be accommodated at a time which has walking track, clinic, splash pool among various other facilities. Also, there are different enclosures for big and small dogs. "This is a good move and I appreciate it. Right now we cannot take our dogs to regular parks as some people do not like it. Certainly, it will help dogs and their owners to have such dedicated place,'' says Kishore Reddy, a dog lover and also Life Member of Kennel Club of India. Depending on the footfalls and the response this Dog Park generates, the GHMC has plans to create atleast couple of more such places in other parts of the city.

Dogs' day out in Hyderabad-First dedicated dog park to open in India

Tension prevailed Wednesday morning in Kerala's Nilackal, the main gateway to Sabarimala, after the police used force to disperse devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the hill shrine.

Acting tough, the police, deployed in large numbers in Nilackal, some 20 kms away from the Sabarimala hilltop, also removed a makeshift shelter erected by a protesting group Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti.

The protesting group of devotees had been staging a sit-in chanting Ayyappa mantra in the shelter in protest against the Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups to enter the shrine.

The protesting people, who were less in numbers, ran from the spot when the police initiated action in the early hours Wednesday when they tried to block the buses from the key entry point to the temple.

Hours ahead of opening of the hill shrine for the monthly prayer, the police said they would not let anyone to block the movement of the people.

Taking the full control of Nilackal, Police also warned against those who create hurdles in the ways of pilgrims to the hill shrine.

The police took strong action against the protesters after some of them checked the vehicles heading to Pamba and prevented the women in the age group of 10 and 50 from entering the hill shrine.

A couple from Tamil Nadu, aged 45 and 40, on their way to Pamba, were forced to get down from the KSRTC bus Monday night allegedly by some activists of the Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti.

Although the couple had said that they would go only up to Pamba and not climb Sabarimala, the activists prevented them.

The police later took them to safety.

Some activists of the Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti, who had stayed back at Nilackal, also allegedly prevented the media persons from carrying out their professional duty.

The crew of various TV news channels were asked to leave the place. They could return the spot after more policemen were deployed in the area.

Around 500 police personnel, including women, have been deployed in Nilackal to ensure a safe passage to the pilgrims to the Lord Ayyappa temple.

Meanwhile, another group of devotees said they would stage a Gandhian style peaceful protest in Pamba.

The shrine located on the mountain ranges of the ecologically fragile Western Ghats opens later in the evening for the first time after the recent Supreme Court.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said no one would be allowed to block devotees from proceeding to Sabarimala.

Groups of women devotees including senior citizens, clad in traditional sarees, had stopped each and every vehicle at Nilackal Tuesday.

Besides private vehicles, devotees even stopped and inspected Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and asked young women to get out of them Tuesday.

Very few police personnel were present when the incidents happened.

Protesting women had said no women belonging to the banned age group of 10-50 will be allowed to travel further from Nilackal and offer worship at the shrine. 
The temple would be closed on October 22 after the five-day monthly prayer during the Malayalam month of Thulam.

Tension prevailed Wednesday morning in Kerala's Nilackal, the main gateway to Sabarimala, after the police used force to disperse devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the hill shrine.

Tension prevailed Wednesday morning in Kerala's Nilackal, the main gateway to Sabarimala, after the police used force to disperse devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the hill shrine. Acting tough, the police, deployed in large numbers in Nilackal, some 20 kms away from the Sabarimala hilltop, also removed a makeshift shelter erected by a protesting group Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti. The protesting group of devotees had been staging a sit-in chanting Ayyappa mantra in the shelter in protest against the Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups to enter the shrine. The protesting people, who were less in numbers, ran from the spot when the police initiated action in the early hours Wednesday when they tried to block the buses from the key entry point to the temple. Hours ahead of opening of the hill shrine for the monthly prayer, the police said they would not let anyone to block the movement of the people. Taking the full control of Nilackal, Police also warned against those who create hurdles in the ways of pilgrims to the hill shrine. The police took strong action against the protesters after some of them checked the vehicles heading to Pamba and prevented the women in the age group of 10 and 50 from entering the hill shrine. A couple from Tamil Nadu, aged 45 and 40, on their way to Pamba, were forced to get down from the KSRTC bus Monday night allegedly by some activists of the Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti. Although the couple had said that they would go only up to Pamba and not climb Sabarimala, the activists prevented them. The police later took them to safety. Some activists of the Sabarimala Achara Samrakshana Samiti, who had stayed back at Nilackal, also allegedly prevented the media persons from carrying out their professional duty. The crew of various TV news channels were asked to leave the place. They could return the spot after more policemen were deployed in the area. Around 500 police personnel, including women, have been deployed in Nilackal to ensure a safe passage to the pilgrims to the Lord Ayyappa temple. Meanwhile, another group of devotees said they would stage a Gandhian style peaceful protest in Pamba. The shrine located on the mountain ranges of the ecologically fragile Western Ghats opens later in the evening for the first time after the recent Supreme Court. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said no one would be allowed to block devotees from proceeding to Sabarimala. Groups of women devotees including senior citizens, clad in traditional sarees, had stopped each and every vehicle at Nilackal Tuesday. Besides private vehicles, devotees even stopped and inspected Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and asked young women to get out of them Tuesday. Very few police personnel were present when the incidents happened. Protesting women had said no women belonging to the banned age group of 10-50 will be allowed to travel further from Nilackal and offer worship at the shrine. The temple would be closed on October 22 after the five-day monthly prayer during the Malayalam month of Thulam.

Tension prevails in Nilackal ahead of Sabarimala's opening; police evict protesters

Sabrimala temple opens gates to women

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he would desist from opposing Narendra Modi the day the prime minister stopped "dividing" the country and started helping the poor.

Campaigning for his party in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Gandhi again attacked Modi over his alleged proximity to businessmen, saying he worked for a handful of rich people.

Addressing a public meeting here in Morena district, he said, "Someone said yesterday that Rahul Gandhi opposes Narendra Modi. I say that I do not oppose for the sake of opposing, there is a reason.

"I will stop opposing Narendra Modiji the day he starts helping the shopkeepers, labourers and the poor. The day he stops the work of dividing the country, I will stop opposing Modiji."

Accusing Modi of working for "15-20" rich people, Gandhi said, "Until Modi talks about justice, waives the loans of farmers, stands with the labourers, whatever the rest of Hindustan says, Rahul Gandhi, will stand against him, because I believe you people are behind the progress of the country."

He alleged that the prime minister, in his Independence Day speech, had insulted the ancestors of those who toiled hard to build this country.

"The US president says only India and China can compete with it (America). The country was poor and hungry 70 years back. There was no city, no railway lines, no plane, no industry and the prime minister says nothing has happened in the last 70 years," the Congress president said.

He accused Modi of helping his "friends" convert their black money through the demonetisation exercise, under which high-value currency notes were scrapped in November, 2016.

"Two years ago, Modi had imposed demonetisation and made the entire country stand in queues. Did we see a Vijay Mallya or Nirav Modi or Anil Ambani in those queues?

Modi helped them convert their black money into white," he said.

Gandhi attacked Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan over the issue of corruption.

He said, "Corruption is rampant in Madhya Pradesh. There is a hierarchy of corruption that reaches the chief minister and his family."

"Scams like Vyapam (a multi-crore-rupee admission and recruitment racket) have destroyed education in Madhya Pradesh and made it expensive. In the e-tendering scam, everyone knows who is involved.

"You can study for hours. But you cannot go ahead until you have money to offer, which means Vyapam. This scam has killed 50 people. The entire state knows what is the role of the chief minister and his wife in this scam," Gandhi said.

In the past, Chouhan has vehemently denied his or his family's involvement in the Vyapam scam.

Gandhi said if voted to power, his party would create jobs for the youth of Madhya Pradesh, where the Congress is in the opposition since 2003.

"The Congress chief minister will work hard for 18 out of 24 hours to create employment for the youth of Madhya Pradesh. We will not make false promises like the BJP, which had promised to give two crore jobs to the youth," he said.

The Congress chief promised to set up food processing units in every district of the state to promote the "Made In Madhya Pradesh" brand and said his party would announce farm loan waiver if elected to power.

Gandhi also addressed public rallies at Joura and Sheopur as part of his election campaign in Madhya Pradesh.

Before addressing the rallies, he visited the Bandi Chhor Gurdwara, located in the Gwalior Fort. He was accompanied by state Congress president Kamal Nath and senior party leader Jyotiraditya Scindia.

After the public meetings, Gandhi held a roadshow from Joura to Bamor in Morena district and headed for Gwalior, from where he will leave for New Delhi, concluding his two-day visit to the state.

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the counting of votes will be taken up on December 11.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he would desist from opposing Narendra Modi the day the prime minister stopped "dividing" the country and started helping the poor.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said he would desist from opposing Narendra Modi the day the prime minister stopped "dividing" the country and started helping the poor. Campaigning for his party in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Gandhi again attacked Modi over his alleged proximity to businessmen, saying he worked for a handful of rich people. Addressing a public meeting here in Morena district, he said, "Someone said yesterday that Rahul Gandhi opposes Narendra Modi. I say that I do not oppose for the sake of opposing, there is a reason. "I will stop opposing Narendra Modiji the day he starts helping the shopkeepers, labourers and the poor. The day he stops the work of dividing the country, I will stop opposing Modiji." Accusing Modi of working for "15-20" rich people, Gandhi said, "Until Modi talks about justice, waives the loans of farmers, stands with the labourers, whatever the rest of Hindustan says, Rahul Gandhi, will stand against him, because I believe you people are behind the progress of the country." He alleged that the prime minister, in his Independence Day speech, had insulted the ancestors of those who toiled hard to build this country. "The US president says only India and China can compete with it (America). The country was poor and hungry 70 years back. There was no city, no railway lines, no plane, no industry and the prime minister says nothing has happened in the last 70 years," the Congress president said. He accused Modi of helping his "friends" convert their black money through the demonetisation exercise, under which high-value currency notes were scrapped in November, 2016. "Two years ago, Modi had imposed demonetisation and made the entire country stand in queues. Did we see a Vijay Mallya or Nirav Modi or Anil Ambani in those queues? Modi helped them convert their black money into white," he said. Gandhi attacked Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan over the issue of corruption. He said, "Corruption is rampant in Madhya Pradesh. There is a hierarchy of corruption that reaches the chief minister and his family." "Scams like Vyapam (a multi-crore-rupee admission and recruitment racket) have destroyed education in Madhya Pradesh and made it expensive. In the e-tendering scam, everyone knows who is involved. "You can study for hours. But you cannot go ahead until you have money to offer, which means Vyapam. This scam has killed 50 people. The entire state knows what is the role of the chief minister and his wife in this scam," Gandhi said. In the past, Chouhan has vehemently denied his or his family's involvement in the Vyapam scam. Gandhi said if voted to power, his party would create jobs for the youth of Madhya Pradesh, where the Congress is in the opposition since 2003. "The Congress chief minister will work hard for 18 out of 24 hours to create employment for the youth of Madhya Pradesh. We will not make false promises like the BJP, which had promised to give two crore jobs to the youth," he said. The Congress chief promised to set up food processing units in every district of the state to promote the "Made In Madhya Pradesh" brand and said his party would announce farm loan waiver if elected to power. Gandhi also addressed public rallies at Joura and Sheopur as part of his election campaign in Madhya Pradesh. Before addressing the rallies, he visited the Bandi Chhor Gurdwara, located in the Gwalior Fort. He was accompanied by state Congress president Kamal Nath and senior party leader Jyotiraditya Scindia. After the public meetings, Gandhi held a roadshow from Joura to Bamor in Morena district and headed for Gwalior, from where he will leave for New Delhi, concluding his two-day visit to the state. The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the counting of votes will be taken up on December 11.

Stop dividing India and I will stop opposing you: Rahul Gandhi to PM

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mj-akbar-resigns-as-minister-of-state-for-external-affairs-171938">#MeToo: MJ Akbar steps down as Union Minister after multiple sexual assault allegations</a>

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;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-protests-police-arrests-30-protesters-as-mob-attacks-devotees-journalists-171950">After days of protests, gates of Kerala's Sabarimala temple open</a>

Kerala's Sabarimala temple opened its gates on Wednesday at 5 pm. Devotees will be allowed to offer prayers till 10.30 pm tonight.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/missing-saudi-journalist-was-decapitated-report-171928">Missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was 'decapitated': Report</a>

Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was tortured before being decapitated inside Riyadh's consulate in Istanbul, pro-government daily Yeni Safak reported Wednesday, saying it had heard audio recordings of the incident.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ten-dead-in-gas-blast-at-crimean-college-reports-171933">Death toll rises to 18 in Crimea college blast: Regional leader</a>

At least 18 people died in a blast in a technical college on the Crimean peninsula, with dozens more injured, Crimean head Sergei Aksyonov said on state television on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/priyanka-chopra-nick-jonas-to-get-married-on-december-2-171921">Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas to get married on December 2?</a>

Looks like Priyanka Chopra won't get married in November but in December.&nbsp;According to a Mumbai-based magazine, the duo is likely to get married on December 2 in Jodhpur, confirming reports that they were indeed looking for a wedding venue when they visited the Rajasthani city, Jodhpur.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

#MeToo: MJ Akbar steps down as Union Minister after multiple sexual assault allegations 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.

#MeToo: MJ Akbar steps down as Union Minister after multiple sexual assault allegations 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. After days of protests, gates of Kerala's Sabarimala temple open Kerala's Sabarimala temple opened its gates on Wednesday at 5 pm. Devotees will be allowed to offer prayers till 10.30 pm tonight. Missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was 'decapitated': Report Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was tortured before being decapitated inside Riyadh's consulate in Istanbul, pro-government daily Yeni Safak reported Wednesday, saying it had heard audio recordings of the incident. Death toll rises to 18 in Crimea college blast: Regional leader At least 18 people died in a blast in a technical college on the Crimean peninsula, with dozens more injured, Crimean head Sergei Aksyonov said on state television on Wednesday. Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas to get married on December 2? Looks like Priyanka Chopra won't get married in November but in December. According to a Mumbai-based magazine, the duo is likely to get married on December 2 in Jodhpur, confirming reports that they were indeed looking for a wedding venue when they visited the Rajasthani city, Jodhpur.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Kerala's Sabarimala temple opened its gates on Wednesday at 5 pm. Devotees will be allowed to offer prayers till 10.30 pm tonight.

There have however been days of protests against the recent Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the temple. Women between the ages of 10 and 50 were earlier not allowed to enter the temple (because they might have been menstruating).&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the wake of the recent protest that erupted in the temple premises earlier during the day, the authorities have imposed Section 144 in Pamba, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam Elavungal.&nbsp;

The Kerala police personnel also vandalised vehicles parked in Pampa. Incidents of violence had broken out today in parts of the state over the entry of women of all age groups in the temple.

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Kerala: Section 144 (prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) has been imposed in Pampa, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam and Elavungal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/T6hkklywoT">pic.twitter.com/T6hkklywoT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052547803614973953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Several journalists covering the Sabarimala protests were on Wednesday attacked by mobs at Nikakkal base camp, the main gateway to the Sabarimala shrine.&nbsp;

Protesters were caught on camera hounding TV reporters at the spot. One TV reporter's car was attacked,&nbsp;with the protesters trying to pull her out of her car. Her car window was broken, and the protester also tried to vandalise&nbsp;her crew's camera equipment.&nbsp;

The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance of the attack on her and other journalists. A meeting is underway at the NCW office to decide on further steps to be taken.&nbsp;

Kerala Minister KK Shailaja said that the attack by the protesters was intentional and that they were playing dirty politics. She added that she can't say if the protesters were actual devotee. She added that the Supreme Court's order is constitutional and the government is bound to implement it.&nbsp;

Around 30 people were arrested in Kerala's Pamba in the protest in Sabarimala temple&nbsp;carried out against the women in the age group of 10-50 years.

Out of the 30, nine were&nbsp;arrested on Tuesday while 21 were arrested today.

The police also arrested&nbsp;Activist Rahul Easwar from Nilakkal base camp and a non-bailable FIR was registered against him. Easwar is kept at Pamba police station

Blaming the LDF government for the protest in Pamba, BJP member MS Kumar has said that no member from his party was involved in the incident.

He said, "LDF government is fully responsible for any law and order situation in state. It's a very unfortunate situation, we aren't responsible. No BJP worker is involved, we're condemning that attempt".

Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said, "Congress is not attacking anybody and definitely attack on journalists is not tolerable. Those who are protesting there, are BJP and RSS people. Nowhere Congress people are engaged in this kind of hooliganism or vandalism".

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Kerala: ANI reporter Ayushmaan Kumar was attacked by protesters at Nilakkal base camp when he was taking the pictures of women checking the buses for women devotees. Police was also present at the spot when the attack took place. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052517246545928192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: India Today journalist Mausami Singh and its crew in a police vehicle. They were attacked by the protesters at Nilakkal base camp. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://t.co/R7rsSBK8fx">pic.twitter.com/R7rsSBK8fx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052510680455290883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Police lathi-charge and pelt stones at the protesters gathered at Nilakkal base camp, in Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/DMC1ePz0l2">pic.twitter.com/DMC1ePz0l2</a>
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Earlier during the day an&nbsp;attempt by a 45-year-old woman from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh to enter Sabarimala Temple failed as protesters prevented her from proceeding to the hill shrine at Pamba.

The apex court had on September 28 passed a historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the temple, a verdict that was hailed by rights activists but opposed by traditionalists.

Kerala's Sabarimala temple opened its gates on Wednesday at 5 pm. Devotees will be allowed to offer prayers till 10.30 pm tonight. There have however been days of protests against the recent Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the temple.

Kerala's Sabarimala temple opened its gates on Wednesday at 5 pm. Devotees will be allowed to offer prayers till 10.30 pm tonight. There have however been days of protests against the recent Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the temple. Women between the ages of 10 and 50 were earlier not allowed to enter the temple (because they might have been menstruating). In the wake of the recent protest that erupted in the temple premises earlier during the day, the authorities have imposed Section 144 in Pamba, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam Elavungal. The Kerala police personnel also vandalised vehicles parked in Pampa. Incidents of violence had broken out today in parts of the state over the entry of women of all age groups in the temple. Kerala: Section 144 (prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) has been imposed in Pampa, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam and Elavungal. #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/T6hkklywoT — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 × Several journalists covering the Sabarimala protests were on Wednesday attacked by mobs at Nikakkal base camp, the main gateway to the Sabarimala shrine. Protesters were caught on camera hounding TV reporters at the spot. One TV reporter's car was attacked, with the protesters trying to pull her out of her car. Her car window was broken, and the protester also tried to vandalise her crew's camera equipment. The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance of the attack on her and other journalists. A meeting is underway at the NCW office to decide on further steps to be taken. Kerala Minister KK Shailaja said that the attack by the protesters was intentional and that they were playing dirty politics. She added that she can't say if the protesters were actual devotee. She added that the Supreme Court's order is constitutional and the government is bound to implement it. Around 30 people were arrested in Kerala's Pamba in the protest in Sabarimala temple carried out against the women in the age group of 10-50 years. Out of the 30, nine were arrested on Tuesday while 21 were arrested today. The police also arrested Activist Rahul Easwar from Nilakkal base camp and a non-bailable FIR was registered against him. Easwar is kept at Pamba police station Blaming the LDF government for the protest in Pamba, BJP member MS Kumar has said that no member from his party was involved in the incident. He said, "LDF government is fully responsible for any law and order situation in state. It's a very unfortunate situation, we aren't responsible. No BJP worker is involved, we're condemning that attempt". Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said, "Congress is not attacking anybody and definitely attack on journalists is not tolerable. Those who are protesting there, are BJP and RSS people. Nowhere Congress people are engaged in this kind of hooliganism or vandalism". Kerala: ANI reporter Ayushmaan Kumar was attacked by protesters at Nilakkal base camp when he was taking the pictures of women checking the buses for women devotees. Police was also present at the spot when the attack took place. #SabarimalaTemple — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 × #WATCH: India Today journalist Mausami Singh and its crew in a police vehicle. They were attacked by the protesters at Nilakkal base camp. #SabarimalaTemple #Kerala pic.twitter.com/R7rsSBK8fx — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 × #WATCH: Police lathi-charge and pelt stones at the protesters gathered at Nilakkal base camp, in Kerala. #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/DMC1ePz0l2 — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2018 × Earlier during the day an attempt by a 45-year-old woman from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh to enter Sabarimala Temple failed as protesters prevented her from proceeding to the hill shrine at Pamba. The apex court had on September 28 passed a historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the temple, a verdict that was hailed by rights activists but opposed by traditionalists.

After days of protests, gates of Kerala's Sabarimala temple open

More trouble is in store for MJ Akbar as&nbsp;twenty women journalists came forward on Tuesday demanding the hearing of their testimonies against him.

The women journalists who were associated with the former junior external affairs minister during his career as a journalist came forward after MJ Akbar filed a defamation case against Priya Ramani.

The case against Priya Ramani will be heard in the Delhi Patiala House court on Thursday.

Ramani was the first woman to come out with her account of alleged sexual harassment by the former minister.

Following her disclosure,&nbsp;more women came out with their stories stating&nbsp;incidents where they were allegedly assaulted by Akbar.

The complaints by the women show a common pattern to the incidents.

The complainant state that Akbar would set up job interviews with aspiring women journalists in hotel rooms and would repeatedly call them to his office cabin for meaningless conversation.&nbsp;

He would also send them out of the workplace and meet them at a hotel at odd hours. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A woman accused him claiming that he would open 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;

The incident came to limelight as several Indian women from various fields had been disclosing on Twitter about the sexual harassment and sexual assault that they have faced.&nbsp;

Allegations have been made against many prominent men from film and music fraternity. 
&nbsp;

More trouble is in store for MJ Akbar as twenty women journalists came forward on Tuesday demanding the hearing of their testimonies against him. The women journalists who were associated with the former junior external affairs minister during his career as a journalist came forward after MJ Akbar filed a defamation case against Priya Ramani.

More trouble is in store for MJ Akbar as twenty women journalists came forward on Tuesday demanding the hearing of their testimonies against him. The women journalists who were associated with the former junior external affairs minister during his career as a journalist came forward after MJ Akbar filed a defamation case against Priya Ramani. The case against Priya Ramani will be heard in the Delhi Patiala House court on Thursday. Ramani was the first woman to come out with her account of alleged sexual harassment by the former minister. Following her disclosure, more women came out with their stories stating incidents where they were allegedly assaulted by Akbar. The complaints by the women show a common pattern to the incidents. The complainant state that Akbar would set up job interviews with aspiring women journalists in hotel rooms and would repeatedly call them to his office cabin for meaningless conversation. He would also send them out of the workplace and meet them at a hotel at odd hours. A woman accused him claiming that he would open 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. The incident came to limelight as several Indian women from various fields had been disclosing on Twitter about the sexual harassment and sexual assault that they have faced. Allegations have been made against many prominent men from film and music fraternity.

#MeToo: 20 women demand hearing of their testimonies against MJ Akbar

The ED has registered a money laundering case in the Muzzafarpur&nbsp;shelter home matter pertaining to alleged rape of minor girls by officials of the centre, officials said Wednesday.

They said the central probe agency has filed a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) taking cognisance of a CBI FIR.

The Enforcement Directorate, they said, will soon issue summons to the accused including the centre owner Brajesh Thakur.

It will probe if illegal funds were generated and laundered by this alleged criminal activity, they said.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the centre run by Thakur, chief of the state-funded NGO.

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's Social Welfare Department in April.

An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur, the owner of the NGO which ran the government-funded shelter home for destitute girls. The probe was later taken over by the CBI.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur, who ran the NGO, were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

The ED has registered a money laundering case in the Muzzafarpur shelter home matter pertaining to alleged rape of minor girls by officials of the centre, officials said Wednesday.

The ED has registered a money laundering case in the Muzzafarpur shelter home matter pertaining to alleged rape of minor girls by officials of the centre, officials said Wednesday. They said the central probe agency has filed a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) taking cognisance of a CBI FIR. The Enforcement Directorate, they said, will soon issue summons to the accused including the centre owner Brajesh Thakur. It will probe if illegal funds were generated and laundered by this alleged criminal activity, they said. Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the centre run by Thakur, chief of the state-funded NGO. The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's Social Welfare Department in April. An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur, the owner of the NGO which ran the government-funded shelter home for destitute girls. The probe was later taken over by the CBI. In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests. The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints. The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani. Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur, who ran the NGO, were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

Muzaffarpur shelter battle: ED registers money laundering case

India Temple Entry Row: Tensions rise over women's entry to Sabrimala

#MeToo: Union Minister MJ Akbar resigns after sexual assault allegations

Sabrimala Temple Row: Protesters ask women to go back

New York, for the first time in 25 years, reported zero shootings throughout the city's five boroughs on the weekend of October 12 through October 14.&nbsp;

Here is a look at the gun ownership laws in India and New York:

Gun laws in India and New York

New York City has separate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-thousands-set-to-march-for-tighter-us-gun-controls-36933">gun laws</a> where one is required to have a licence for both long guns and handguns. These laws are regarded as very restrictive, meaning, that the issuance of a licence is up to the issuing officer. Applications &nbsp;for a pistol permit are filed at the police or sheriff’s department and can take 4-6 months for approval.

On the other hand, in India, gun laws in India are quite strict. Getting a gun licence in India is a difficult task that can take years.

The Arms Act which was first formulated in 1959 and has undergone multiple changes after allowing Indians to own guns for three primary reasons:&nbsp;

1. Self-defense 
2. Professional sport 
3. Crop protection&nbsp;

To obtain a gun, an individual needs to first procure a licence. Licences are issued state-wise; it’s near impossible to obtain a central licence that allows a citizen to carry a gun legally in more than one state. A form is to be filled after which documents need to be submitted. The licencing authority then calls upon the police to conduct background checks, as per National Association for Gun Rights India.

The Indian Ordinance Factory is the only legal manufacturer of arms in India, and all purchases are to be made from weapons it has produced.&nbsp;

Gun ownership in India and New York&nbsp;

Gun culture is deeply embedded in American society. The right to own and carry firearms is protected by the second amendment to the US constitution.&nbsp;

People in a third of households own a weapon. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/anger-in-france-britain-over-us-president-donald-trumps-gun-law-speech-134851">US holds</a> the world record of an estimated 270 to 310 million guns -- an average of one per person.&nbsp;Around 30,000 people die by firearms – including suicide – every year in America.&nbsp;

In India, Uttar Pradesh topped the list of states to have the maximum number of gun licences at a colossal 12.77 lakh, followed by Jammu and Kashmir with 3.69 people with a gun licence, PTI reported.&nbsp;

Delhi has 38,754 licenced gun holders, Maharashtra with 84,050, Punjab, which witnessed terrorism in 1980s and 1990s, has 3,59,349 active gun licences and Karnataka with 1,13,631 licences.

According to the statistics released by the home ministry, the country has a total of 33,69,444 active gun licences as on December 31, 2016.

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police registered a complaint against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-former-bsp-mps-son-booked-under-arms-act-after-brandishing-171740">former BSP MP's son</a> under the Arms Act and said that he would be arrested soon after he was seen brandishing a gun outside a five-star hotel.&nbsp;

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, gun-related deaths increased from 3,063 to 3,655 between 2010 and 2014. There were 10 times that number in 2013 in the United States.

But only 14 per&nbsp;cent of the victims in 2014 in India were killed by licenced guns. The rest were killed by illegal weapons, largely prevalent in the hinterlands.

According to World Atlas, United States has the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-watching-courts-before-acting-on-gun-age-limits-35568">highest gun ownership</a> rate with about 101 guns per hundred Americans, followed by Serbia at 58.21 guns per 100 people and Yemen with a rate of 54.8 per 100 people.&nbsp;

New York, for the first time in 25 years, reported zero shootings throughout the city's five boroughs on the weekend of October 12 through October 14. Here is a look at the gun ownership laws in India and New York: Gun laws in India and New York New York City has separate gun laws where one is required to have a licence for both long guns and handguns.

New York, for the first time in 25 years, reported zero shootings throughout the city's five boroughs on the weekend of October 12 through October 14. Here is a look at the gun ownership laws in India and New York: Gun laws in India and New York New York City has separate gun laws where one is required to have a licence for both long guns and handguns. These laws are regarded as very restrictive, meaning, that the issuance of a licence is up to the issuing officer. Applications for a pistol permit are filed at the police or sheriff’s department and can take 4-6 months for approval. On the other hand, in India, gun laws in India are quite strict. Getting a gun licence in India is a difficult task that can take years. The Arms Act which was first formulated in 1959 and has undergone multiple changes after allowing Indians to own guns for three primary reasons: 1. Self-defense 2. Professional sport 3. Crop protection To obtain a gun, an individual needs to first procure a licence. Licences are issued state-wise; it’s near impossible to obtain a central licence that allows a citizen to carry a gun legally in more than one state. A form is to be filled after which documents need to be submitted. The licencing authority then calls upon the police to conduct background checks, as per National Association for Gun Rights India. The Indian Ordinance Factory is the only legal manufacturer of arms in India, and all purchases are to be made from weapons it has produced. Gun ownership in India and New York Gun culture is deeply embedded in American society. The right to own and carry firearms is protected by the second amendment to the US constitution. People in a third of households own a weapon. The US holds the world record of an estimated 270 to 310 million guns -- an average of one per person. Around 30,000 people die by firearms – including suicide – every year in America. In India, Uttar Pradesh topped the list of states to have the maximum number of gun licences at a colossal 12.77 lakh, followed by Jammu and Kashmir with 3.69 people with a gun licence, PTI reported. Delhi has 38,754 licenced gun holders, Maharashtra with 84,050, Punjab, which witnessed terrorism in 1980s and 1990s, has 3,59,349 active gun licences and Karnataka with 1,13,631 licences. According to the statistics released by the home ministry, the country has a total of 33,69,444 active gun licences as on December 31, 2016. On Tuesday, the Delhi Police registered a complaint against a former BSP MP's son under the Arms Act and said that he would be arrested soon after he was seen brandishing a gun outside a five-star hotel. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, gun-related deaths increased from 3,063 to 3,655 between 2010 and 2014. There were 10 times that number in 2013 in the United States. But only 14 per cent of the victims in 2014 in India were killed by licenced guns. The rest were killed by illegal weapons, largely prevalent in the hinterlands. According to World Atlas, United States has the highest gun ownership rate with about 101 guns per hundred Americans, followed by Serbia at 58.21 guns per 100 people and Yemen with a rate of 54.8 per 100 people.

Living on a gunpoint: How India fares against US

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.&nbsp;

Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections.

He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process.

What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said.

It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added.

Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism.

He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said.

A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding.&nbsp;

Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field.

The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences.&nbsp;

In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced.&nbsp;

He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise. Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections. He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process. What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said. It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added. Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism. He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said. A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding. Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field. The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope. Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences. In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced. He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Elections will be meaningful only if all sections of society participate: Former CEC

Though the me-too movement has taken the social media in India by storm a survey conducted by a leading newspaper and private firms reveals&nbsp;that the movement has not changed much on the ground.

The report states that about 70 per cent of women do not report such harassment cases.&nbsp;

In the year 2018, the National Women Commission has received only 718 complaints of harassment at the workplace.

The report also revealed that in the year 2017 the majority of sexual harassment cases at workplaces were reported in the Information and Technology sector.&nbsp;

The sector's share is a staggering 65 per cent.&nbsp;

About 40 per cent&nbsp;of the IT companies lack an internal complaints committee to probe harassment cases, the report said.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Though the me-too movement has taken the social media in India by storm a survey conducted by a leading newspaper and private firms reveals that the movement has not changed much on the ground.

Though the me-too movement has taken the social media in India by storm a survey conducted by a leading newspaper and private firms reveals that the movement has not changed much on the ground. The report states that about 70 per cent of women do not report such harassment cases. In the year 2018, the National Women Commission has received only 718 complaints of harassment at the workplace. The report also revealed that in the year 2017 the majority of sexual harassment cases at workplaces were reported in the Information and Technology sector. The sector's share is a staggering 65 per cent. About 40 per cent of the IT companies lack an internal complaints committee to probe harassment cases, the report said.

#MeToo: Most sexual harassment cases in India reported from IT sector

Delhi's air quality for the first time this season deteriorated to 'very poor' category with several areas in the national capital nearing towards severe levels of pollution, according to authorities.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 309, according to a data of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and that between 401 and 500 is categorised as 'severe'.

On Wednesday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 380, Dwarka Sector 8 registered AQI of 376, ITO recorded 295 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 349, Rohini an AQI of 353, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 287 and the PM2.5 level was recorded at 131, according to the data.

This is the first time this season that the air quality deteriorated to 'very poor' category.

Further deterioration of air quality is forecast in the coming days with PM10 to reach 330 and PM2.5 to 151.

An official with the CPCB said a number of factors are responsible for deteriorating air quality, including vehicular pollution, construction activities and meteorological factors.

Among meteorological factors the main reason is the drop and change of wind speed which is now flowing from the stubble burning areas, another official said.

The deterioration of air quality comes days after implementation of an emergency plan to combat air pollution.

The GRAP, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2012, prescribes a set of measures to curb air pollution based on the CPCB daily Air Quality Index.

The emergency plan gets implemented if 'very poor' or 'severe' air pollution levels are recorded for 48 hours, but given the extent of winter pollution witnessed by the national capital, the plan has been implemented as the air quality slipped to the 'poor' category, the official said.

In addition, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams to monitor the implementation of measures taken to combat air pollution.

Delhi's air quality for the first time this season deteriorated to 'very poor' category with several areas in the national capital nearing towards severe levels of pollution, according to authorities.

Delhi's air quality for the first time this season deteriorated to 'very poor' category with several areas in the national capital nearing towards severe levels of pollution, according to authorities. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 309, according to a data of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and that between 401 and 500 is categorised as 'severe'. On Wednesday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 380, Dwarka Sector 8 registered AQI of 376, ITO recorded 295 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 349, Rohini an AQI of 353, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 287 and the PM2.5 level was recorded at 131, according to the data. This is the first time this season that the air quality deteriorated to 'very poor' category. Further deterioration of air quality is forecast in the coming days with PM10 to reach 330 and PM2.5 to 151. An official with the CPCB said a number of factors are responsible for deteriorating air quality, including vehicular pollution, construction activities and meteorological factors. Among meteorological factors the main reason is the drop and change of wind speed which is now flowing from the stubble burning areas, another official said. The deterioration of air quality comes days after implementation of an emergency plan to combat air pollution. The GRAP, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2012, prescribes a set of measures to curb air pollution based on the CPCB daily Air Quality Index. The emergency plan gets implemented if 'very poor' or 'severe' air pollution levels are recorded for 48 hours, but given the extent of winter pollution witnessed by the national capital, the plan has been implemented as the air quality slipped to the 'poor' category, the official said. In addition, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams to monitor the implementation of measures taken to combat air pollution.

Delhi's air quality deteriorates to 'very poor' category

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala.

The party announced the move at a press conference.

Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.&nbsp;

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state. Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala. The party announced the move at a press conference. Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.

Ahead of Rajasthan election, BJP MLA Manvendra Singh joins Congress

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh has said that the names of candidates contesting in 90 assembly constituencies in the upcoming elections will be announced on October 19 and 20.

Speaking to media, Singh, who has been governing the state for 15 years said, "Nearly 90 assemblies were discussed. District presidents, MPs also gave recommendations regarding names. A panel of probable candidates has been made in every assembly, which will now be sent to the Central Election Committee in Delhi.&nbsp;On October 19-20, the names of all the 90 seats will be announced".

The nominations can be filed till October 23, and the scrutiny of the relevant submitted papers will be on October 24. The candidates can withdraw their names by October 26.

While the regional outfit of former chief minister Ajit Jogi, who has entered into a pre-poll alliance with Mayawati`s Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have already declared their candidates, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress are yet to announce their contestants.

Chhattisgarh will go to polls in two phases- November 12 and 20- respectively. Counting of votes will be done on December 11.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh has said that the names of candidates contesting in 90 assembly constituencies in the upcoming elections will be announced on October 19 and 20.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh has said that the names of candidates contesting in 90 assembly constituencies in the upcoming elections will be announced on October 19 and 20. Speaking to media, Singh, who has been governing the state for 15 years said, "Nearly 90 assemblies were discussed. District presidents, MPs also gave recommendations regarding names. A panel of probable candidates has been made in every assembly, which will now be sent to the Central Election Committee in Delhi. On October 19-20, the names of all the 90 seats will be announced". The nominations can be filed till October 23, and the scrutiny of the relevant submitted papers will be on October 24. The candidates can withdraw their names by October 26. While the regional outfit of former chief minister Ajit Jogi, who has entered into a pre-poll alliance with Mayawati`s Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have already declared their candidates, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress are yet to announce their contestants. Chhattisgarh will go to polls in two phases- November 12 and 20- respectively. Counting of votes will be done on December 11.

Chhattisgarh polls: Candidates for 90 assembly constituencies to be announced this week

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