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The ten-day long Ganesh festival kicked off with zeal and fervour across Maharashtra Thursday.

The festival began with devotees, mostly attired in traditional clothes, bringing colourfully-crafted idols of the elephant-headed God in their homes and pandals and installing them amid chants of 'Ganapati bappa moraya', beating of drums and and sprinkling of 'gulal' (red coloured powder).

Several beautifully decked up pandals have been erected in all major cities and towns in the state, including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Nagpur, where huge idols of Lord Ganesha have been placed on raised platforms for people to worship.

These makeshift tents also serve as a venue for promoting social causes such as free medical checkup, blood donation camps, charity for poor during the festival days.

Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended greetings to the people of the state on the festive occasion.

Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi, is celebrated across the country as birthday of Lord Ganesha which comes to an end after 10 days when people come out in large numbers for immersing the idols in the sea or in different water bodies.

The festival sees devotees offering to the deity various sweets as prasad, of which 'modak' (sweet rice flour dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery) is an integral part.

According to the Hindu mythology, modak is believed to be Lord Ganesha's favourite sweet. As per the rituals, 21 modaks are offered to the God and eventually served to devotees.

In view of the festival, police across the state have beefed up security.

In the state capital, at least 15,000 security personnel will keep a vigil during the festival.

Along with the personnel of local police stations, the Local Armed Police, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), Riot Control Police, Quick Response Team (QRT), Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and the Civil

Defence force will be deployed across the city, Mumbai police spokesperson, DCP, Manjunath Shingte, told reporters Wednesday.

Altogether 500 CCTV cameras have been installed at various locations in the metropolis for security, he said.

The festival will conclude on September 23.

Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended greetings to the people of the state on the festive occasion

The ten-day long Ganesh festival kicked off with zeal and fervour across Maharashtra Thursday. The festival began with devotees, mostly attired in traditional clothes, bringing colourfully-crafted idols of the elephant-headed God in their homes and pandals and installing them amid chants of 'Ganapati bappa moraya', beating of drums and and sprinkling of 'gulal' (red coloured powder). Several beautifully decked up pandals have been erected in all major cities and towns in the state, including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Nagpur, where huge idols of Lord Ganesha have been placed on raised platforms for people to worship. These makeshift tents also serve as a venue for promoting social causes such as free medical checkup, blood donation camps, charity for poor during the festival days. Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended greetings to the people of the state on the festive occasion. Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi, is celebrated across the country as birthday of Lord Ganesha which comes to an end after 10 days when people come out in large numbers for immersing the idols in the sea or in different water bodies. The festival sees devotees offering to the deity various sweets as prasad, of which 'modak' (sweet rice flour dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery) is an integral part. According to the Hindu mythology, modak is believed to be Lord Ganesha's favourite sweet. As per the rituals, 21 modaks are offered to the God and eventually served to devotees. In view of the festival, police across the state have beefed up security. In the state capital, at least 15,000 security personnel will keep a vigil during the festival. Along with the personnel of local police stations, the Local Armed Police, State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), Riot Control Police, Quick Response Team (QRT), Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and the Civil Defence force will be deployed across the city, Mumbai police spokesperson, DCP, Manjunath Shingte, told reporters Wednesday. Altogether 500 CCTV cameras have been installed at various locations in the metropolis for security, he said. The festival will conclude on September 23.

Ganesh festival kicks off in Maharashtra with fervour

Triggering a controversy, Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam on Wednesday called Narendra Modi "illiterate" (anpad gavaar), while criticising the state government's decision to screen a short film on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/students-donning-degree-robes-sell-pakodas-near-modis-rally-venue-31745?amp">prime minister's life at schools</a> in Maharashtra.

His comment drew a sharp reaction from BJP leaders with the party's Maharashtra unit spokesperson Shaina NC calling Nirupam "mentally deranged."

"The decision to screen the film forcibly is wrong. Children should be kept away from politics. What will students learn from watching a film on an uneducated and illiterate person like Modi," the Congress leader told a news channel.

"Children and people do not know how many degrees the prime minister holds," he said.

Later, asked by reporters about his choice of words, Nirupam said the ruling party need not object to each and every word, and "in a democracy, the prime minister is not god".

Reacting to Nirupam's remarks, Shaina NC tweeted, "Yet another abnoxious comment by a mentally deranged @sanjaynirupam . May be he forgets that @narendramodi is elected by 125 cr Indians who aren't "unpad or gavar".@INCIndia is devoid of ideology and relevant questions. Sure citizens will give a befitting reply in 2019 (sic).

Anil Shirole, a BJP MP from Maharashtra tweeted, "PM is not a representative of one party, he is the Prime Minister of the Country and it's people. @sanjaynirupam by insulting our PM you have insulted and disrespected the office, the country and the constitution drafted by Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar ji (sic).

The Zilla Parishad (ZP) schools in Maharashtra have been asked to screen a short film on Modi next week, a directive which has drawn criticism from Opposition.

A government official said that ZP schools were asked to screen the short film "Chalo Jeete Hai" on September 18 as it has a "social message" and would inspire students.

The 32-minute film -- "Chalo Jeete Hai" -- directed by Mangesh Hadawale and presented by Aanand L Rai and Mahaveer Jain, is based on the early life of Modi.

Opposition Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have slammed the BJP-led dispensation over the decision.&nbsp;

'Children and people do not know how many degrees the prime minister holds,' Sanjay Nirupam said.

Triggering a controversy, Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam on Wednesday called Narendra Modi "illiterate" (anpad gavaar), while criticising the state government's decision to screen a short film on the prime minister's life at schools in Maharashtra. His comment drew a sharp reaction from BJP leaders with the party's Maharashtra unit spokesperson Shaina NC calling Nirupam "mentally deranged." "The decision to screen the film forcibly is wrong. Children should be kept away from politics. What will students learn from watching a film on an uneducated and illiterate person like Modi," the Congress leader told a news channel. "Children and people do not know how many degrees the prime minister holds," he said. Later, asked by reporters about his choice of words, Nirupam said the ruling party need not object to each and every word, and "in a democracy, the prime minister is not god". Reacting to Nirupam's remarks, Shaina NC tweeted, "Yet another abnoxious comment by a mentally deranged @sanjaynirupam . May be he forgets that @narendramodi is elected by 125 cr Indians who aren't "unpad or gavar".@INCIndia is devoid of ideology and relevant questions. Sure citizens will give a befitting reply in 2019 (sic). Anil Shirole, a BJP MP from Maharashtra tweeted, "PM is not a representative of one party, he is the Prime Minister of the Country and it's people. @sanjaynirupam by insulting our PM you have insulted and disrespected the office, the country and the constitution drafted by Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar ji (sic). The Zilla Parishad (ZP) schools in Maharashtra have been asked to screen a short film on Modi next week, a directive which has drawn criticism from Opposition. A government official said that ZP schools were asked to screen the short film "Chalo Jeete Hai" on September 18 as it has a "social message" and would inspire students. The 32-minute film -- "Chalo Jeete Hai" -- directed by Mangesh Hadawale and presented by Aanand L Rai and Mahaveer Jain, is based on the early life of Modi. Opposition Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have slammed the BJP-led dispensation over the decision.

BJP hits back after Mumbai Congress chief calls PM Modi 'illiterate'

There appears to be no relief in sight for consumers in foreseeable future as fuel prices touched a new high on Thursday after both petrol and diesel saw a marginal increase of Rs 13 paise a and 11 paise, respectively.&nbsp;

Petrol at Rs 81.00/litre (increase by Rs 0.13/litre) and diesel at Rs 73.08/litre (increase by Rs 0.11/litre) in Delhi, reported news agency ANI.

Similarly in Mumbai petrol is being sold for Rs 88.39/litre (an increase of Rs 0.13/litre) and diesel at Rs 77.58/litre (an increase of Rs 0.11/litre), the ANI report added.&nbsp;

While the Centre ruled out any cut in taxes on Monday, states like Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal announced marginal tax cuts in a relief to the consumers.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, fuel prices remained steady after breaching record levels continuously for over a week.

As per the Indian Oil Corporation, petrol was being sold at Rs 80.87 and diesel at Rs 72.97 per litre in the national capital on Tuesday, while in Mumbai, petrol and diesel were being sold at Rs 88.26 and Rs 77.47 per litre respectively.

On Monday, the commuters in New Delhi paid Rs 80.73 to get a litre of petrol and for diesel Rs 72.83. On Sunday, Delhites were charged Rs 80.50 for a litre of petrol while diesel was sold for Rs 72.61 per litre.

In Mumbai, the financial capital, people had to shell out Rs Rs 88.12 for a litre of petrol and Rs 77.32 for diesel per litre on Monday. On Sunday, the petrol was bought for Rs 87.89 per litre while diesel Rs 77.09.&nbsp;

While the Centre ruled out any cut in taxes on Monday, states like Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal announced marginal tax cuts in a relief to consumers.

There appears to be no relief in sight for consumers in foreseeable future as fuel prices touched a new high on Thursday after both petrol and diesel saw a marginal increase of Rs 13 paise a and 11 paise, respectively. Petrol at Rs 81.00/litre (increase by Rs 0.13/litre) and diesel at Rs 73.08/litre (increase by Rs 0.11/litre) in Delhi, reported news agency ANI. Similarly in Mumbai petrol is being sold for Rs 88.39/litre (an increase of Rs 0.13/litre) and diesel at Rs 77.58/litre (an increase of Rs 0.11/litre), the ANI report added. While the Centre ruled out any cut in taxes on Monday, states like Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal announced marginal tax cuts in a relief to the consumers. On Wednesday, fuel prices remained steady after breaching record levels continuously for over a week. As per the Indian Oil Corporation, petrol was being sold at Rs 80.87 and diesel at Rs 72.97 per litre in the national capital on Tuesday, while in Mumbai, petrol and diesel were being sold at Rs 88.26 and Rs 77.47 per litre respectively. On Monday, the commuters in New Delhi paid Rs 80.73 to get a litre of petrol and for diesel Rs 72.83. On Sunday, Delhites were charged Rs 80.50 for a litre of petrol while diesel was sold for Rs 72.61 per litre. In Mumbai, the financial capital, people had to shell out Rs Rs 88.12 for a litre of petrol and Rs 77.32 for diesel per litre on Monday. On Sunday, the petrol was bought for Rs 87.89 per litre while diesel Rs 77.09.

Petrol touches Rs 81 mark in Delhi, is selling at Rs 88.39 a litre in Mumbai

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Thursday embarked on a two-day visit to Moscow, Russia, news agency ANI reported.

Swaraj will attend the 23rd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Technical and Economic Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) during her trip, the report added.

It will be co-chaired by Swaraj and Yuri Borisov, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

IRIGC-TEC is a standing body which annually meets and reviews ongoing activities of bilateral cooperation in the fields of bilateral trade and investment, science and technology, culture and other issues of mutual interest.

The Commission, after taking the stock of bilateral cooperation in various fields, will provide policy recommendations and directions in the concerned fields.

The last meeting of the Commission was held in New Delhi in December 2017.&nbsp

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Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj leaves for a two-day visit to Moscow, Russia. She will attend the 23rd meeting of the Inter- Governmental Commission on Technical & Economic Cooperation. <a href="https://t.co/bSMHS0kiro">pic.twitter.com/bSMHS0kiro</a>
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Swaraj will attend the 23rd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Technical and Economic Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) during her trip

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Thursday embarked on a two-day visit to Moscow, Russia, news agency ANI reported. Swaraj will attend the 23rd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Technical and Economic Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) during her trip, the report added. It will be co-chaired by Swaraj and Yuri Borisov, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation. IRIGC-TEC is a standing body which annually meets and reviews ongoing activities of bilateral cooperation in the fields of bilateral trade and investment, science and technology, culture and other issues of mutual interest. The Commission, after taking the stock of bilateral cooperation in various fields, will provide policy recommendations and directions in the concerned fields. The last meeting of the Commission was held in New Delhi in December 2017. Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj leaves for a two-day visit to Moscow, Russia. She will attend the 23rd meeting of the Inter- Governmental Commission on Technical & Economic Cooperation. pic.twitter.com/bSMHS0kiro — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 ×

Sushma Swaraj embarks on two-day visit to Moscow

Recently, in its draft report, the Law Commission of India has backed “one nation, one poll” as an antidote to keeping the country perennially in election mode. According to the panel, such an exercise would save public money, help reduce the burden on the administrative setup and security forces and ensure better implementation of government policies.&nbsp;

This practice, which was there from 1952, got disrupted due to premature dissolution of some State Legislative Assemblies in 1968. Lok Sabha itself was dissolved prematurely in 1970.

Amendments needed

But what exactly is needed to ensure that this does indeed happen? Article 172 in the Indian Constitution about the Duration of State Legislatures states, “Every Legislative Assembly of every State, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting...” However, to hold elections to these Assemblies along with the Lok Sabha election, amendment of Article 172 of the Constitution as well as of Section 14 of the Representation of People Act, 1951 will become necessary. Only in case of premature dissolution of the Assembly, a window of six months is available for the Election Commission to conduct the elections. Simultaneous polls across the nation would be possible only after these constitutional provisions are amended.

Now, amending Article 172 is a laboured possibility. This can be done by passing the requisite bill in Parliament, by the ruling party, followed by the same bill (paving way for simultaneous polls for Lok Sabha and all state Assemblies) being passed in more than half of the states (as BJP controls directly or with partners as many as 19 states today out of 29 State and Union Territory Assemblies), and finally ratified by the President of India.

The other, easier, possibility is that BJP-controlled state Assemblies are dissolved by their respective state governments soon enough, and the Election Commission then is duty-bound to hold fresh elections within six months, by the time we have due date for Lok Sabha polls, and hence, we have simultaneous polls to this extent. So, the considered opinion is that the BJP may go in for simultaneous polls of Lok Sabha and 20 odd states together within the scope of the current constitutional provisions, and this within 120 days from now. Alternatively, if an amendment is made, then the entire nation will have simultaneous polls. This is bound to lead to a political tsunami of sorts.

Why BJP wants it&nbsp;

The BJP is very keen on the move as three concurrent moves by the party have revived the debate on the issue. BJP president Amit Shah has written to the Law Commission seeking its implementation to check expenditure and pull India out of a perpetual election cycle, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has raised his voice, arguing that “frequent elections impede governance and development,” results in a drag on public exchequer and gives rise to “election fatigue” that is harmful for democracy.&nbsp;

It makes good sense for the BJP to get all Indian states or at least 16 to 18 of them to go along with the Lok Sabha polls and have simultaneous elections. They can then cash in on Opposition’s lack of cohesion, and quell local discontent, especially in Rajasthan and MP, and “presidentialise” the entire election process. The agrarian crisis can be quelled to an extent, more so with partial Minimum Support Price (MSP) being promised and politically there can be a few more regional parties joining pre-poll alliance (AIADMK, TRS, BJD) or at least kept ready for a post-poll alliance if needed.

Rationale for simultaneous polls

A perpetual electoral season has made it impossible for leaders to pursue economic policies that bring long-term rewards when an anti-reform posture appears electorally more beneficial. Political discourse around reforms has become restrictive. Then there is the cost issue. The cost of an election has two components – one, expenditure incurred by the Election Commission and two, expenditure incurred by the political parties. A large number of government employees and public buildings are diverted from their regular responsibilities for election duties.&nbsp;

There are undoubtedly benefits in conducting national and state elections together. Also, the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct every time an election is scheduled delays the implementation of Central and state government welfare schemes, infrastructure projects and takes away time and effort from governance issues.&nbsp;

During elections, political convenience takes precedence over public interest. To lure voters, political parties give in to popular demands without any thought to public interest. Simultaneous elections reduce such opportunity for political parties.

If the elections are to be held simultaneously once in five years, the elected state governments cannot be dismissed easily. This reduces the anomalies created by the Article 356 (President’s Rule) of the Indian constitution and hence, it strengthens federalism.

As the issue stands today, all signs are about India moving towards simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and up to 20 states together ahead, or through amendment in all states of the Union of India.

(This article was first published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-logic-of-simultaneous-polls-2662005">original article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

The Law Commission of India has backed “one nation, one poll” as an antidote to keeping the country perennially in election mode.

Recently, in its draft report, the Law Commission of India has backed “one nation, one poll” as an antidote to keeping the country perennially in election mode. According to the panel, such an exercise would save public money, help reduce the burden on the administrative setup and security forces and ensure better implementation of government policies. This practice, which was there from 1952, got disrupted due to premature dissolution of some State Legislative Assemblies in 1968. Lok Sabha itself was dissolved prematurely in 1970. Amendments needed But what exactly is needed to ensure that this does indeed happen? Article 172 in the Indian Constitution about the Duration of State Legislatures states, “Every Legislative Assembly of every State, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue for five years from the date appointed for its first meeting...” However, to hold elections to these Assemblies along with the Lok Sabha election, amendment of Article 172 of the Constitution as well as of Section 14 of the Representation of People Act, 1951 will become necessary. Only in case of premature dissolution of the Assembly, a window of six months is available for the Election Commission to conduct the elections. Simultaneous polls across the nation would be possible only after these constitutional provisions are amended. Now, amending Article 172 is a laboured possibility. This can be done by passing the requisite bill in Parliament, by the ruling party, followed by the same bill (paving way for simultaneous polls for Lok Sabha and all state Assemblies) being passed in more than half of the states (as BJP controls directly or with partners as many as 19 states today out of 29 State and Union Territory Assemblies), and finally ratified by the President of India. The other, easier, possibility is that BJP-controlled state Assemblies are dissolved by their respective state governments soon enough, and the Election Commission then is duty-bound to hold fresh elections within six months, by the time we have due date for Lok Sabha polls, and hence, we have simultaneous polls to this extent. So, the considered opinion is that the BJP may go in for simultaneous polls of Lok Sabha and 20 odd states together within the scope of the current constitutional provisions, and this within 120 days from now. Alternatively, if an amendment is made, then the entire nation will have simultaneous polls. This is bound to lead to a political tsunami of sorts. Why BJP wants it The BJP is very keen on the move as three concurrent moves by the party have revived the debate on the issue. BJP president Amit Shah has written to the Law Commission seeking its implementation to check expenditure and pull India out of a perpetual election cycle, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has raised his voice, arguing that “frequent elections impede governance and development,” results in a drag on public exchequer and gives rise to “election fatigue” that is harmful for democracy. It makes good sense for the BJP to get all Indian states or at least 16 to 18 of them to go along with the Lok Sabha polls and have simultaneous elections. They can then cash in on Opposition’s lack of cohesion, and quell local discontent, especially in Rajasthan and MP, and “presidentialise” the entire election process. The agrarian crisis can be quelled to an extent, more so with partial Minimum Support Price (MSP) being promised and politically there can be a few more regional parties joining pre-poll alliance (AIADMK, TRS, BJD) or at least kept ready for a post-poll alliance if needed. Rationale for simultaneous polls A perpetual electoral season has made it impossible for leaders to pursue economic policies that bring long-term rewards when an anti-reform posture appears electorally more beneficial. Political discourse around reforms has become restrictive. Then there is the cost issue. The cost of an election has two components – one, expenditure incurred by the Election Commission and two, expenditure incurred by the political parties. A large number of government employees and public buildings are diverted from their regular responsibilities for election duties. There are undoubtedly benefits in conducting national and state elections together. Also, the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct every time an election is scheduled delays the implementation of Central and state government welfare schemes, infrastructure projects and takes away time and effort from governance issues. During elections, political convenience takes precedence over public interest. To lure voters, political parties give in to popular demands without any thought to public interest. Simultaneous elections reduce such opportunity for political parties. If the elections are to be held simultaneously once in five years, the elected state governments cannot be dismissed easily. This reduces the anomalies created by the Article 356 (President’s Rule) of the Indian constitution and hence, it strengthens federalism. As the issue stands today, all signs are about India moving towards simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and up to 20 states together ahead, or through amendment in all states of the Union of India. (This article was first published on The DNA. Read the original article.) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The logic of simultaneous polls

Amid the consistent rise in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/fuel-prices-go-up-again-petrol-at-rs-8826litre-in-mumbai-rs-8087litre-in-delhi-164999">fuel prices in the country</a>, the cabinet on Wednesday announced yet another increase in the price of another fuel, Ethanol.

In a press briefing, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the cabinet has approved the price of Ethanol at Rs 52.43 per litre, which was earlier at Rs 47.49 per litre.&nbsp;

Fuel prices began an almost unbroken northward march since August 1. They fell only once on August 13 in the last 41 days. Prices surged on 29 days and remained unchanged on 11 days, and have been breaching record levels for more than a week now.&nbsp;

Sector experts say a weak rupee and high excise duty are major factors for the rise in fuel prices.

Also, high global crude oil cost has become a major concern for the country which is a net importer of oil. The UK Brent crude oil price hovers around $77 per barrel.

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Cabinet has approved ethanol price at Rs.52.43/litre, which was earlier at Rs.47.49/litre: Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan <a href="https://t.co/zxS4S4WkEV">pic.twitter.com/zxS4S4WkEV</a>
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The fuel prices remained static on Wednesday.

However, on Monday, the price of petrol in Delhi was Rs 80.73 per litre while diesel was sold for 72.83 per litre.

On Sunday, Delhites were charged Rs 80.50 for a litre of petrol while diesel was sold for Rs 72.61 per litre.

In Mumbai, the financial capital, people had to shell out Rs Rs 88.12 for a litre of petrol and Rs 77.32 for diesel per litre on Monday. On Sunday, the petrol was bought for Rs 87.89 per litre while diesel Rs 77.09.

In a press briefing, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the cabinet has approved the price of Ethanol at Rs 52.43 per litre, which was earlier at Rs 47.49 per litre.

Amid the consistent rise in the fuel prices in the country, the cabinet on Wednesday announced yet another increase in the price of another fuel, Ethanol. In a press briefing, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the cabinet has approved the price of Ethanol at Rs 52.43 per litre, which was earlier at Rs 47.49 per litre. Fuel prices began an almost unbroken northward march since August 1. They fell only once on August 13 in the last 41 days. Prices surged on 29 days and remained unchanged on 11 days, and have been breaching record levels for more than a week now. Sector experts say a weak rupee and high excise duty are major factors for the rise in fuel prices. Also, high global crude oil cost has become a major concern for the country which is a net importer of oil. The UK Brent crude oil price hovers around $77 per barrel. Cabinet has approved ethanol price at Rs.52.43/litre, which was earlier at Rs.47.49/litre: Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan pic.twitter.com/zxS4S4WkEV — ANI (@ANI) September 12, 2018 × The fuel prices remained static on Wednesday. However, on Monday, the price of petrol in Delhi was Rs 80.73 per litre while diesel was sold for 72.83 per litre. On Sunday, Delhites were charged Rs 80.50 for a litre of petrol while diesel was sold for Rs 72.61 per litre. In Mumbai, the financial capital, people had to shell out Rs Rs 88.12 for a litre of petrol and Rs 77.32 for diesel per litre on Monday. On Sunday, the petrol was bought for Rs 87.89 per litre while diesel Rs 77.09.

Cabinet approves hike in ethanol price by over 4 rupees

Punjab Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu may face harsher punishment in the 20-year-old road rage case after the Supreme Court agreed to re-examine the sentence awarded to the cricketer turned politician.

The apex court had on May 15 set aside the Punjab and Haryana High Court order convicting him of culpable homicide and awarding him three-year jail term, but held him guilty of minor offence of causing hurt to a senior citizen and spared him of jail term.

A bench of Justices J Chelameswar (since retired) and Kaul had on May 15 acquitted Sidhu's aide an co-accused Rupinder Singh Sandhu of all charges.

It had said that there was no trustworthy evidence regarding Sandhu's presence along with Sidhu at the time of the offence.

The Supreme Court also imposed a fine of Rs 1,000 on Sidhu for the offence under section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) of the IPC.

However, a&nbsp;bench of Justices A M Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul agreed to examine a review petition filed by family members of deceased Jaswinder Singh and issued a notice to Sidhu on Wednesday in the case.

"Issue notice restricted to the quantum of sentence to respondent no. 1 Navjot Singh Sidhu," the bench said in an order which was uploaded on apex court website on Wednesday.

On December 27, 1998, Sidhu and his friend -- Rupinder Singh Sandhu - had entered into an argument with the victim, Gurnam Singh, over parking space in Patiala. The two allegedly dragged Gurnam out of his car and hit him. He died soon after. 
&nbsp;

A bench of Justices A M Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul agreed to examine a review petition filed by family members of deceased Jaswinder Singh and issued a notice to Sidhu in the case.

Punjab Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu may face harsher punishment in the 20-year-old road rage case after the Supreme Court agreed to re-examine the sentence awarded to the cricketer turned politician. The apex court had on May 15 set aside the Punjab and Haryana High Court order convicting him of culpable homicide and awarding him three-year jail term, but held him guilty of minor offence of causing hurt to a senior citizen and spared him of jail term. A bench of Justices J Chelameswar (since retired) and Kaul had on May 15 acquitted Sidhu's aide an co-accused Rupinder Singh Sandhu of all charges. It had said that there was no trustworthy evidence regarding Sandhu's presence along with Sidhu at the time of the offence. The Supreme Court also imposed a fine of Rs 1,000 on Sidhu for the offence under section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) of the IPC. However, a bench of Justices A M Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul agreed to examine a review petition filed by family members of deceased Jaswinder Singh and issued a notice to Sidhu on Wednesday in the case. "Issue notice restricted to the quantum of sentence to respondent no. 1 Navjot Singh Sidhu," the bench said in an order which was uploaded on apex court website on Wednesday. On December 27, 1998, Sidhu and his friend -- Rupinder Singh Sandhu - had entered into an argument with the victim, Gurnam Singh, over parking space in Patiala. The two allegedly dragged Gurnam out of his car and hit him. He died soon after.

Sidhu may face jail as SC agrees to re-examine sentence awarded in 20-yr-old road rage case

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the country on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.

"Ganpati Bappa Morya! greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. May Lord Ganesh guide us all towards a path of progress, peace, happiness and prosperity," the President tweeted.

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Ganpati Bappa Morya! Greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. May Lord Ganesh guide us all towards a path of progress, peace, happiness and prosperity <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1040081757410811904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Modi also took to Twitter and said: "Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi."

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Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. 
 
सभी देशवासियों को गणेश चतुर्थी के पावन पर्व की शुभकामनाएं। <a href="https://t.co/UupNvwOpMf">pic.twitter.com/UupNvwOpMf</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1040044735468118017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, this is a 10-day Hindu festival that reveres Lord Ganesha.

Modi also took to Twitter and said: "Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi."

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the country on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. "Ganpati Bappa Morya! greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. May Lord Ganesh guide us all towards a path of progress, peace, happiness and prosperity," the President tweeted. Ganpati Bappa Morya! Greetings and good wishes to my fellow citizens on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. May Lord Ganesh guide us all towards a path of progress, peace, happiness and prosperity #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 13, 2018 × Modi also took to Twitter and said: "Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi." Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. सभी देशवासियों को गणेश चतुर्थी के पावन पर्व की शुभकामनाएं। pic.twitter.com/UupNvwOpMf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 13, 2018 × Also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, this is a 10-day Hindu festival that reveres Lord Ganesha.

PM Modi, President Kovind greet nation on Ganesh Chaturthi

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad candidates Ankiv Basoya, Shakti Singh and Jyoti Choudhary have won the posts of president, vice president and joint secretary respectively in Delhi University Students' Union elections, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, NSUI candidate Akash Choudhary has won the post of secretary.

Counting for the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) polls resumed Thursday hours after it was suspended due to "fault in EVMs" leading to an uproar among the contending outfits.

Following a glitch in the EVMs, the Congress-affiliated NSUI demanded fresh polling, while the RSS's student wing the ABVP demanded resumption of counting.&nbsp;

Later, all candidates came to an agreement on resumption of counting.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DUSUElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DUSUElections2018</a>: ABVP candidates Ankiv Basoya, Shakti Singh & Jyoti Choudhary have won the posts of president, vice president & joint secretary respectively. NSUI candidate Akash Choudhary has won the post of secretary. <a href="https://t.co/kGF1EGLTXz">pic.twitter.com/kGF1EGLTXz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1040271039194951680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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DUSU is the representative body of the Delhi University students from most colleges and faculties.&nbsp;

While the battle for DUSU has mainly been the contest between the NSUI and ABVP for years, the Left-affiliated AISA and Aam Aadmi Party's CYSS have entered into an alliance and are also vying for the central panel posts this time.&nbsp;

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EVMs haven't been issued/allotted to Delhi University by this office. It was also confirmed from State Election Commission that no such machines have been given by them too. It seems that Delhi University has procured these machines privately: Manoj Kumar, Election Officer, EVM <a href="https://t.co/yyf5AKoyKW">pic.twitter.com/yyf5AKoyKW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1040267178988261376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Amid heavy police presence and some last-minute wooing of voters, DUSU polls were held on Wednesday with a voter turnout of 44.46 per cent.

Polling took place at 52 centres in the colleges with as many as 23 candidates in the fray.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

According to reports, NSUI candidate Akash Choudhary has won the post of secretary.

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad candidates Ankiv Basoya, Shakti Singh and Jyoti Choudhary have won the posts of president, vice president and joint secretary respectively in Delhi University Students' Union elections, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, NSUI candidate Akash Choudhary has won the post of secretary. Counting for the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) polls resumed Thursday hours after it was suspended due to "fault in EVMs" leading to an uproar among the contending outfits. Following a glitch in the EVMs, the Congress-affiliated NSUI demanded fresh polling, while the RSS's student wing the ABVP demanded resumption of counting. Later, all candidates came to an agreement on resumption of counting. #DUSUElections2018: ABVP candidates Ankiv Basoya, Shakti Singh & Jyoti Choudhary have won the posts of president, vice president & joint secretary respectively. NSUI candidate Akash Choudhary has won the post of secretary. pic.twitter.com/kGF1EGLTXz — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 × DUSU is the representative body of the Delhi University students from most colleges and faculties. While the battle for DUSU has mainly been the contest between the NSUI and ABVP for years, the Left-affiliated AISA and Aam Aadmi Party's CYSS have entered into an alliance and are also vying for the central panel posts this time. EVMs haven't been issued/allotted to Delhi University by this office. It was also confirmed from State Election Commission that no such machines have been given by them too. It seems that Delhi University has procured these machines privately: Manoj Kumar, Election Officer, EVM pic.twitter.com/yyf5AKoyKW — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 × Amid heavy police presence and some last-minute wooing of voters, DUSU polls were held on Wednesday with a voter turnout of 44.46 per cent. Polling took place at 52 centres in the colleges with as many as 23 candidates in the fray. (With inputs from PTI)

DUSU polls: ABVP candidates win top posts

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore area of Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir Thursday, news agency PTI reported quoting police.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation on Thursday morning in Arampora area of Sopore in the north Kashmir district after intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, the report further said.

The forces are conducting the searches after militants fired upon them, he added.

The forces retaliated leading to an encounter, the official said.

He said the gunfight was going on and further details were awaited.&nbsp

A cordon and search operation was launched by security forces this morning in Arampora area of Sopore in the north Kashmir district after intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore area of Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir Thursday, news agency PTI reported quoting police. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation on Thursday morning in Arampora area of Sopore in the north Kashmir district after intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, the report further said. The forces are conducting the searches after militants fired upon them, he added. The forces retaliated leading to an encounter, the official said. He said the gunfight was going on and further details were awaited.

Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway in Baramulla

Liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya said Wednesday that he had met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley before leaving India. However, Jaitley rejected the claim, saying Mallya was "factually false".

Mallya targets Indian Finance Minister: Claims meeting him before leaving India

Counting for the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) polls resumed Thursday hours after it was suspended due to "fault in EVMs" leading to an uproar among the contending outfits.

Following a glitch in the EVMs, the Congress-affiliated NSUI demanded fresh polling, while the RSS's student wing the ABVP demanded resumption of counting.&nbsp;

Later, all candidates came to an agreement on resumption of counting.

Before the counting was stopped, in the initial trends, Congress-backed NSUI was leading for the president post, while the ABVP was leading for the vice president's post.

Initially, the counting was stopped for an hour following allegations of faulty EVMs. However, after students raised objections, the election officials decided to suspend the counting.

"After elaborate discussions, it was decided that the counting will be resumed today. All candidates have reached an agreement on this," an election officer for DUSU polls said.

"We had proposed rectification of the faulty EVMs and resumption of the counting but the students were not ready for it. It was decided to suspend counting in the afternoon," he said.

The supporters of both the groups shouted slogans against the Delhi University (DU) administration and created a ruckus inside the counting centre.

"The polls are being held at the behest of the central government. The EVMs were tampered with. We want fresh elections," Rocky Tuseed of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) said.

Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) Shakti Singh said, "Only one EVM was faulty and it can be repaired. We want the counting to be resumed. Since we were leading on all the seats, the other parties are demanding fresh elections."

DUSU is the representative body of the Delhi University students from most colleges and faculties. Apart from DUSU, which is an umbrella council, each college has its own students' union to which separate elections are held.

While the battle for DUSU has mainly been the contest between the NSUI and ABVP for years, the Left-affiliated AISA and Aam Aadmi Party's CYSS have entered into an alliance and are also vying for the central panel posts this time.&nbsp;

Amid heavy police presence and some last-minute wooing of voters, DUSU polls were held yesterday with a voter turnout of 44.46 per cent.

Polling took place at 52 centres in the colleges. There are as many as 23 candidates in the fray.

Polling took place at 52 centres in the colleges. There are as many as 23 candidates in the fray.

Counting for the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) polls resumed Thursday hours after it was suspended due to "fault in EVMs" leading to an uproar among the contending outfits. Following a glitch in the EVMs, the Congress-affiliated NSUI demanded fresh polling, while the RSS's student wing the ABVP demanded resumption of counting. Later, all candidates came to an agreement on resumption of counting. Before the counting was stopped, in the initial trends, Congress-backed NSUI was leading for the president post, while the ABVP was leading for the vice president's post. Initially, the counting was stopped for an hour following allegations of faulty EVMs. However, after students raised objections, the election officials decided to suspend the counting. "After elaborate discussions, it was decided that the counting will be resumed today. All candidates have reached an agreement on this," an election officer for DUSU polls said. "We had proposed rectification of the faulty EVMs and resumption of the counting but the students were not ready for it. It was decided to suspend counting in the afternoon," he said. The supporters of both the groups shouted slogans against the Delhi University (DU) administration and created a ruckus inside the counting centre. "The polls are being held at the behest of the central government. The EVMs were tampered with. We want fresh elections," Rocky Tuseed of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) said. Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) Shakti Singh said, "Only one EVM was faulty and it can be repaired. We want the counting to be resumed. Since we were leading on all the seats, the other parties are demanding fresh elections." DUSU is the representative body of the Delhi University students from most colleges and faculties. Apart from DUSU, which is an umbrella council, each college has its own students' union to which separate elections are held. While the battle for DUSU has mainly been the contest between the NSUI and ABVP for years, the Left-affiliated AISA and Aam Aadmi Party's CYSS have entered into an alliance and are also vying for the central panel posts this time. Amid heavy police presence and some last-minute wooing of voters, DUSU polls were held yesterday with a voter turnout of 44.46 per cent. Polling took place at 52 centres in the colleges. There are as many as 23 candidates in the fray.

DUSU polls: Counting resumes after EVM glitch causes uproar among unions

At least ten Banaras Hindu University students were detained for allegedly creating a ruckus inside the campus over the eating of mess food on Tuesday morning, police said.

A group of students of Birla hostel took some outsiders along with them to the mess of Aiyyar hostel, to which the students of the Aiyyar hostel protested, police said.

The group returned with hockey sticks, iron rods and vandalised the Aiyyar hostel and also started beating up the students. They threw away all the belongings, broke laptops and mobile phones, and damaged over half-a-dozen bikes parked outside the hostel, they said.

As soon the other students came to know about the incident, they sat on a dharna and blocked the road, demanding an immediate arrest of the accused.

A&nbsp;huge posse of police personnel&nbsp;reached the campus and SP (City) Dinesh Singh and Chief Proctor Royana Singh assured the protesters of taking strict action against the assailants.

In the afternoon, when the police entered the Birla hostel in search of the attackers, some students allegedly began pelting stones at the policemen, after which a scuffle broke out between the policemen and students.

Police had to use mild force and fired tear gas shells to bring the situation under control in the campus, police said.

As many as 10 students, who were involved in the incident, have been detained, they said.

BHU chief proctor Royana Singh said few students received minor injuries and they were admitted in the trauma centre.

The police is examining the CCTV footage and all the students who were involved in the ruckus will be arrested. "We will ensure that such kind of incidents are not repeated again," Singh added.

A group of students of Birla hostel took some outsiders along with them to the mess of Aiyyar hostel, to which the students of the Aiyyar hostel protested, police said.

At least ten Banaras Hindu University students were detained for allegedly creating a ruckus inside the campus over the eating of mess food on Tuesday morning, police said. A group of students of Birla hostel took some outsiders along with them to the mess of Aiyyar hostel, to which the students of the Aiyyar hostel protested, police said. The group returned with hockey sticks, iron rods and vandalised the Aiyyar hostel and also started beating up the students. They threw away all the belongings, broke laptops and mobile phones, and damaged over half-a-dozen bikes parked outside the hostel, they said. As soon the other students came to know about the incident, they sat on a dharna and blocked the road, demanding an immediate arrest of the accused. A huge posse of police personnel reached the campus and SP (City) Dinesh Singh and Chief Proctor Royana Singh assured the protesters of taking strict action against the assailants. In the afternoon, when the police entered the Birla hostel in search of the attackers, some students allegedly began pelting stones at the policemen, after which a scuffle broke out between the policemen and students. Police had to use mild force and fired tear gas shells to bring the situation under control in the campus, police said. As many as 10 students, who were involved in the incident, have been detained, they said. BHU chief proctor Royana Singh said few students received minor injuries and they were admitted in the trauma centre. The police is examining the CCTV footage and all the students who were involved in the ruckus will be arrested. "We will ensure that such kind of incidents are not repeated again," Singh added.

10 BHU students detained after ruckus over mess food

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/in-hindsight-could-have-handled-rohingya-issue-better-myanmars-aung-san-suu-kyi-165353">In hindsight, could have handled Rohingya issue better: Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi</a>

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Thursday said in hindsight, her government could have handled the Rohingya crisis better.

She also said that that two Reuters journalists jailed for seven years for investigating a massacre of Rohingya in Rakhine state were not convicted because they were journalists but because they broke the law.&nbsp

 
<a href="http://wionews.com/business-&-economy/us-invites-china-to-trade-talks-as-tariffs-loom-white-house-adviser-165335">US</a><a href="http://wionews.com/business-&-economy/us-invites-china-to-trade-talks-as-tariffs-loom-white-house-adviser-165335"> invites China to restart trade talks: White House adviser</a>

The Trump administration has invited Chinese officials to restart trade talks, the White House's top economic adviser said on Wednesday, as Washington prepares to escalate the US-China trade war with tariffs on US $200 billion worth of Chinese goods.

Larry Kudlow, who heads the White House Economic Council, told Fox Business Network that US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had sent an invitation to senior Chinese officials, but he declined to provide further details.

 
<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/civic-body-seals-gurgaon-mosque-stating-its-proximity-to-iaf-ammunition-depot-residents-protest---165348">Civic body seals Gurgaon mosque, says it is too close to IAF ammunition depot</a>

A protest erupted after Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) sealed a mosque in the Sheetla Mata Colony in Gurgoan area on Wednesday, a week after the locality experienced tension over the use of loudspeakers at a mosque in the area.&nbsp

While an official claimed that the newly built structure fell within the restricted radius of &nbsp300 metres from an Indian Air Force (IAF) ammunition depot, protesters blamed the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. &nbsp

 
<a href="http://wionews.com/world/despite-trump-more-migrant-families-crossing-mexico-border-into-us-165345">Despite Trump, more migrant families crossing Mexico border into </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/despite-trump-more-migrant-families-crossing-mexico-border-into-us-165345">US</a>

he Trump administration called for tougher immigration laws Wednesday after fresh data indicated more migrant families than ever are attempting to cross the Mexican border into the United States illegally.

Border Patrol data showed that arrests of families illegally entering the United States across the southern border jumped 38 percent in August from July, despite President Donald Trump's efforts to crack down on the flow.

A total of 12,774 people who crossed the border as families were taken into custody last month, the highest ever for a month of August.

 
<a href="http://wionews.com/world/australia-politicians-attack-9-year-old-girl-for-not-standing-during-national-anthem--165350">Australia politicians attack </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/australia-politicians-attack-9-year-old-girl-for-not-standing-during-national-anthem--165350">9-year-old</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/australia-politicians-attack-9-year-old-girl-for-not-standing-during-national-anthem--165350"> girl for not standing during </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/australia-politicians-attack-9-year-old-girl-for-not-standing-during-national-anthem--165350">national</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/australia-politicians-attack-9-year-old-girl-for-not-standing-during-national-anthem--165350"> anthem</a>

A nine-year-old girl in Australia was attacked by multiple politicians for not standing up during the national anthem played at her school out of respect for the nation's indigenous population, reports said.&nbsp

Kenmore South State School grade four student Harper Nielsen was given detention and threatened with suspension for not standing when 'Advance Australia Fair' was played in assembly.

Australia's indigenous population represents about 2 per cent of the total population but has a lower life expectancy and twice the infant mortality rate than the rest of the country.

Read the top 5 stories of the morning here

In hindsight, could have handled Rohingya issue better: Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Thursday said in hindsight, her government could have handled the Rohingya crisis better. She also said that that two Reuters journalists jailed for seven years for investigating a massacre of Rohingya in Rakhine state were not convicted because they were journalists but because they broke the law. US invites China to restart trade talks: White House adviser The Trump administration has invited Chinese officials to restart trade talks, the White House's top economic adviser said on Wednesday, as Washington prepares to escalate the US-China trade war with tariffs on US $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. Larry Kudlow, who heads the White House Economic Council, told Fox Business Network that US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had sent an invitation to senior Chinese officials, but he declined to provide further details. Civic body seals Gurgaon mosque, says it is too close to IAF ammunition depot A protest erupted after Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) sealed a mosque in the Sheetla Mata Colony in Gurgoan area on Wednesday, a week after the locality experienced tension over the use of loudspeakers at a mosque in the area. While an official claimed that the newly built structure fell within the restricted radius of &nbsp300 metres from an Indian Air Force (IAF) ammunition depot, protesters blamed the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. Despite Trump, more migrant families crossing Mexico border into US he Trump administration called for tougher immigration laws Wednesday after fresh data indicated more migrant families than ever are attempting to cross the Mexican border into the United States illegally. Border Patrol data showed that arrests of families illegally entering the United States across the southern border jumped 38 percent in August from July, despite President Donald Trump's efforts to crack down on the flow. A total of 12,774 people who crossed the border as families were taken into custody last month, the highest ever for a month of August. Australia politicians attack 9-year-old girl for not standing during national anthem A nine-year-old girl in Australia was attacked by multiple politicians for not standing up during the national anthem played at her school out of respect for the nation's indigenous population, reports said. Kenmore South State School grade four student Harper Nielsen was given detention and threatened with suspension for not standing when 'Advance Australia Fair' was played in assembly. Australia's indigenous population represents about 2 per cent of the total population but has a lower life expectancy and twice the infant mortality rate than the rest of the country.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Kerala High Court on Thursday expressed satisfaction over police investigation into the allegations of rape levelled by a nun against a Roman Catholic bishop, noting that it was being conducted in a fair and professional manner.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Hrishikesh Roy and Justice A K Jayasankaran Nambiar made the observations in its order after perusing a report of the investigating officer in the case submitted by the state Director General of Prosecution.

"We are of the prima facie view that the investigation is being conducted in a fair and professional manner and at this stage, it would be inappropriate for the court to issue any specific direction on the conduct of the probe," it said.

The court was hearing three separate petitions alleging that the police investigation in the case against Jalandhar diocese Bishop Franco Mulakkal was "ineffective".

One of the petitioners has sought a CBI probe into the case, which has caused public outcry with mounting pressure for action against the bishop.

The court had on September 10 sought to know the steps taken by the government to ensure the safety and security of the nun.

Considering a plea filed by George Joseph K of the Kerala Catholic Church Reformation Movement seeking a court-monitored probe into the case, it had asked why no steps have been taken to ensure the nun's safety and security.

In its order on Thursday, the court said the alleged incident took place some years ago and it was quite natural that the probe was taking time.

Any hasty investigation would only allow the accused to go scot-free, it said and posted the petitions to September 24 for further hearing.

The bench said the report indicated that a notice has been sent to Bishop Franco through the Jalandhar police asking him to appear before the investigating officer on September 19.

The Director General of Prosecution has also submitted that a decision regarding the arrest of the accused can be taken only after verification of contradictions in the evidence collected so far.

Since the incidents referred to in the case had occurred between 2014 and 2016, the report shows the police was making all endeavour to iron out contradictions in the statements of witnesses as also the accused.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Besides, the police have provided round-the-clock protection to the St Francis Mission Home at Kuravilangad in Kottayam district where the victim nun and two of the witnesses were staying, the court noted.

The bench said there was no reason for it to assume that police would not take action on any specific complaint regarding harassment or threat to the victim or the witnesses.

It said the charge of inducement made to some witnesses was being probed by police and the court had also been assured that the investigating officer would take into account possibility of similar offers or threat to other witnesses.

The police informed the high court that sufficient protection would be provided to the nun.

Inspector General of Police Vijay Sakhare, who reviewed the investigation into the case, had said the delay in completing the probe was due to "contradictions" in the statements given by the victim, witnesses and the accused.

The nun had accused the clergyman of sexually assaulting her repeatedly between 2014 and 2016, a charge denied by him.

The court was hearing three separate petitions alleging that the police investigation in the case against Jalandhar diocese Bishop Franco Mulakkal was 'ineffective'.

The Kerala High Court on Thursday expressed satisfaction over police investigation into the allegations of rape levelled by a nun against a Roman Catholic bishop, noting that it was being conducted in a fair and professional manner. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Hrishikesh Roy and Justice A K Jayasankaran Nambiar made the observations in its order after perusing a report of the investigating officer in the case submitted by the state Director General of Prosecution. "We are of the prima facie view that the investigation is being conducted in a fair and professional manner and at this stage, it would be inappropriate for the court to issue any specific direction on the conduct of the probe," it said. The court was hearing three separate petitions alleging that the police investigation in the case against Jalandhar diocese Bishop Franco Mulakkal was "ineffective". One of the petitioners has sought a CBI probe into the case, which has caused public outcry with mounting pressure for action against the bishop. The court had on September 10 sought to know the steps taken by the government to ensure the safety and security of the nun. Considering a plea filed by George Joseph K of the Kerala Catholic Church Reformation Movement seeking a court-monitored probe into the case, it had asked why no steps have been taken to ensure the nun's safety and security. In its order on Thursday, the court said the alleged incident took place some years ago and it was quite natural that the probe was taking time. Any hasty investigation would only allow the accused to go scot-free, it said and posted the petitions to September 24 for further hearing. The bench said the report indicated that a notice has been sent to Bishop Franco through the Jalandhar police asking him to appear before the investigating officer on September 19. The Director General of Prosecution has also submitted that a decision regarding the arrest of the accused can be taken only after verification of contradictions in the evidence collected so far. Since the incidents referred to in the case had occurred between 2014 and 2016, the report shows the police was making all endeavour to iron out contradictions in the statements of witnesses as also the accused. Besides, the police have provided round-the-clock protection to the St Francis Mission Home at Kuravilangad in Kottayam district where the victim nun and two of the witnesses were staying, the court noted. The bench said there was no reason for it to assume that police would not take action on any specific complaint regarding harassment or threat to the victim or the witnesses. It said the charge of inducement made to some witnesses was being probed by police and the court had also been assured that the investigating officer would take into account possibility of similar offers or threat to other witnesses. The police informed the high court that sufficient protection would be provided to the nun. Inspector General of Police Vijay Sakhare, who reviewed the investigation into the case, had said the delay in completing the probe was due to "contradictions" in the statements given by the victim, witnesses and the accused. The nun had accused the clergyman of sexually assaulting her repeatedly between 2014 and 2016, a charge denied by him.

High Court expresses satisfaction over probe into nun's rape charge

The group of nuns seeking action against a Bishop accused of rape by one of their fellow sisters said Thursday that they would continue their six-day-old protest till justice was done.

They said their agitation was not against the Church or its rules, but a cry, seeking justice for their victimised fellow nun.

The nuns said they would not have come out in the open had the Church authorities delivered justice.

Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court Thursday expressed satisfaction over the police investigation in the case.

The court stated this while considering three separate petitions, alleging that the police probe against Bishop Franco Mulakkal of the Jalandhar diocese was 'ineffective'.

It asked them to have some patience as shown by the nun and said the petitions would be considered after the Bishop was interrogated by the Special Investigation Team probing the case on September 19.

The Kerala Catholic Bishop Council (KCBC) had Wednesday slammed the nuns' protest, saying that it has "crossed all limits".

"We are not against the Church. We are not against the Church rules. We still accept the sacraments and we are not against it. We will continue our protest till we get justice," a nun told reporters in Kochi.

The KCBC had in a statement on Wednesday slammed the nuns' protest, saying that it has "crossed all limits".

It also noted that both the complainant nun and accused Bishop were members of Catholic family and the church shared their "wounds and agony".

The nun recently sought the urgent intervention of the Vatican for justice and demanded the Bishop's removal as the head of the Jalandhar diocese, questioning why the church was "closing its eyes to the truth" when she mustered the courage to make public her sufferings.

In a scathing letter to the Vatican that was made available to the media Tuesday, the nun also asked will the Church be able to give back what she has lost. She alleged that Bishop Franco Mulakkal was using "political and money power" to bury the case against him.

She had accused the clergyman of sexually assaulting her repeatedly between 2014 and 2016.

The Bishop had, however, dismissed the allegations as "baseless and concocted", insisting she levelled those as the Catholic order had rejected her demand for favours.

The KCBC had said the allegations levelled against the Bishop was 'serious', adding that whoever the accused may be, they should be punished if the charges were proved. "This is the firm stand of the Church," it said.

KCBC had also alleged attempts by vested interests and a section of the media to tarnish the church and the bishop community as a whole under the cover of the protesting nuns and said this was not "acceptable".

Police should not succumb to any kind of pressure and complete the probe impartially at the earliest, Varghese Vallikkat, deputy secretary general and official spokesperson of KCBC, had said in a press release.

In Kottayam, district police chief Hari Sankar said on Wednesday there were contradictions in the statements given by the victim, witnesses and the accused and the investigation team probing the case would reach a conclusion before accused Bishop appears before it on September 19.

The protest of various Catholic reformist organisations in Kochi, seeking justice to the victim, entered the sixth day Thursday.

Many women leaders, including eminent writer Sara Joseph and social activist K Ajitha, visited the agitators, who include five fellow nuns of the victim.&nbsp

The nuns said they would not have come out in the open had the Church authorities delivered justice.

The group of nuns seeking action against a Bishop accused of rape by one of their fellow sisters said Thursday that they would continue their six-day-old protest till justice was done. They said their agitation was not against the Church or its rules, but a cry, seeking justice for their victimised fellow nun. The nuns said they would not have come out in the open had the Church authorities delivered justice. Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court Thursday expressed satisfaction over the police investigation in the case. The court stated this while considering three separate petitions, alleging that the police probe against Bishop Franco Mulakkal of the Jalandhar diocese was 'ineffective'. It asked them to have some patience as shown by the nun and said the petitions would be considered after the Bishop was interrogated by the Special Investigation Team probing the case on September 19. The Kerala Catholic Bishop Council (KCBC) had Wednesday slammed the nuns' protest, saying that it has "crossed all limits". "We are not against the Church. We are not against the Church rules. We still accept the sacraments and we are not against it. We will continue our protest till we get justice," a nun told reporters in Kochi. The KCBC had in a statement on Wednesday slammed the nuns' protest, saying that it has "crossed all limits". It also noted that both the complainant nun and accused Bishop were members of Catholic family and the church shared their "wounds and agony". The nun recently sought the urgent intervention of the Vatican for justice and demanded the Bishop's removal as the head of the Jalandhar diocese, questioning why the church was "closing its eyes to the truth" when she mustered the courage to make public her sufferings. In a scathing letter to the Vatican that was made available to the media Tuesday, the nun also asked will the Church be able to give back what she has lost. She alleged that Bishop Franco Mulakkal was using "political and money power" to bury the case against him. She had accused the clergyman of sexually assaulting her repeatedly between 2014 and 2016. The Bishop had, however, dismissed the allegations as "baseless and concocted", insisting she levelled those as the Catholic order had rejected her demand for favours. The KCBC had said the allegations levelled against the Bishop was 'serious', adding that whoever the accused may be, they should be punished if the charges were proved. "This is the firm stand of the Church," it said. KCBC had also alleged attempts by vested interests and a section of the media to tarnish the church and the bishop community as a whole under the cover of the protesting nuns and said this was not "acceptable". Police should not succumb to any kind of pressure and complete the probe impartially at the earliest, Varghese Vallikkat, deputy secretary general and official spokesperson of KCBC, had said in a press release. In Kottayam, district police chief Hari Sankar said on Wednesday there were contradictions in the statements given by the victim, witnesses and the accused and the investigation team probing the case would reach a conclusion before accused Bishop appears before it on September 19. The protest of various Catholic reformist organisations in Kochi, seeking justice to the victim, entered the sixth day Thursday. Many women leaders, including eminent writer Sara Joseph and social activist K Ajitha, visited the agitators, who include five fellow nuns of the victim.

Nuns say stir will continue till justice done in rape case

National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday stated that although his party has decided to boycott the upcoming municipal and panchayat polls, it has not asked people to stay away from voting.

"An election which won't see people's participation is being considered to be an election by the Centre and what can we say over it? Neither we have asked people to not participate or boycott the elections nor we are running any such campaign. We have just said that our party won't take part in it. Whether the government chooses to go ahead or not is for the government to decide, but the fact is that two major political parties of the state are not taking part in it," Abdullah stated.

Abdullah demanded that the Central government must clear its stand on Article 35A. He further added that all political parties in the state are "on the same page" with respect to Article 35A.

"We have demanded that Centre must clear its position on 35A but it hasn't done it so far. Hence, we do not know on the next hearing on January 9, what kind of defence will be put forward in favour of this. As much as 35A is concerned all parties of the valley are on the same page. The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) MLAs from Jammu have publically spoken in favour of 35A. The NC has made it clear that until we get an assurance on this issue, we won't be taking part in these municipal and Panchayat elections," he said.&nbsp&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

Abdullah demanded that the Central government must clear its stand on Article 35A.

National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday stated that although his party has decided to boycott the upcoming municipal and panchayat polls, it has not asked people to stay away from voting. "An election which won't see people's participation is being considered to be an election by the Centre and what can we say over it? Neither we have asked people to not participate or boycott the elections nor we are running any such campaign. We have just said that our party won't take part in it. Whether the government chooses to go ahead or not is for the government to decide, but the fact is that two major political parties of the state are not taking part in it," Abdullah stated. Abdullah demanded that the Central government must clear its stand on Article 35A. He further added that all political parties in the state are "on the same page" with respect to Article 35A. "We have demanded that Centre must clear its position on 35A but it hasn't done it so far. Hence, we do not know on the next hearing on January 9, what kind of defence will be put forward in favour of this. As much as 35A is concerned all parties of the valley are on the same page. The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) MLAs from Jammu have publically spoken in favour of 35A. The NC has made it clear that until we get an assurance on this issue, we won't be taking part in these municipal and Panchayat elections," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

National Conference hasn't asked people in J&K to boycott upcoming polls: Omar Abdullah

Chinese Consul General in Kolkata on Wednesday talked about the idea of flagging off a bullet train between China and India, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

Ma Zhanwu, at a conference on "Connectivity, trade relations and investment opportunities between China and eastern India", in Kolkata said that it's a 'great idea' to run a bullet train from China's Kunming to Kolkata, via Dhaka and cities in Myanmar.

"A fantastic idea was proposed by scholars at a conference last week on having a bullet train going from Kunming in China to Kolkata, via Dhaka and Myanmar. It will shorten the distance between Kolkata and some parts in China. It's a great idea in my opinion," Zhanwu stated.&nbsp

"In the conference, people shared their opinions on how China and Eastern India can cooperate to advance the changes and cooperation in the field of infrastructure, trade and investment," the Chinese envoy told ANI.

The conference aimed at bringing into focus areas of cooperation between India and China which would help overcome areas of friction.&nbsp

The event focused on themes like connecting neighbours, trade relations, investment opportunities and sustainability and low carbon economy.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI) &nbsp

Ma Zhanwu said that it's a 'great idea' to run a bullet train from China's Kunming to Kolkata, via Dhaka and cities in Myanmar.

Chinese Consul General in Kolkata on Wednesday talked about the idea of flagging off a bullet train between China and India, news agency ANI reported. Ma Zhanwu, at a conference on "Connectivity, trade relations and investment opportunities between China and eastern India", in Kolkata said that it's a 'great idea' to run a bullet train from China's Kunming to Kolkata, via Dhaka and cities in Myanmar. "A fantastic idea was proposed by scholars at a conference last week on having a bullet train going from Kunming in China to Kolkata, via Dhaka and Myanmar. It will shorten the distance between Kolkata and some parts in China. It's a great idea in my opinion," Zhanwu stated. "In the conference, people shared their opinions on how China and Eastern India can cooperate to advance the changes and cooperation in the field of infrastructure, trade and investment," the Chinese envoy told ANI. The conference aimed at bringing into focus areas of cooperation between India and China which would help overcome areas of friction. The event focused on themes like connecting neighbours, trade relations, investment opportunities and sustainability and low carbon economy. (With inputs from ANI)

Bullet train between China-India 'great idea': Chinese Consul General 

Ahead of the second inter-Korean summit next week, <a href="http://wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-has-asked-for-a-second-meeting-with-trump-white-house-164987">South Korean ambassador to India </a>Shin Bongkil has said the&nbsp;world should have patience when it comes to the North Korean denuclearisation issue.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trump-thanks-kim-for-not-showcasing-icbms-at-north-korea-military-parade-164838">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump thanks Kim for not showcasing ICBMs at North Korea military parade</a>

Speaking exclusively to WION, South Korean ambassador said, "Solving this issue in a period of time may not be unrealistic. We should have patience. There will be up and down but we won't give up the determination."

Accepting that North Korean and US nuclear negotiation "faces some dilemma and certain impasse" he said his "President's visit to North Korea will help facilitate US-North Korea negotiation and also reconciliation between North and South and ease any tension."

The visit by South Korean president Moon Jae-in for the summit was decided during the first&nbsp;inter-Korean summit earlier this year. The second&nbsp;inter-Korean summit will take place from 18th to 20th September.&nbsp;

Bongkil added, "Nuclear negotiation is very difficult and complex issue" and if "we can't resolve the issue there will be serious consequence."

Recently, US president Trump had conceded lack of action on denuclearisation by North Korea and had cancelled a&nbsp;visit by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo's to the country. Tweeting about the cancellation of visit the US president had said, “I feel we are not making sufficient progress with respect to the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.”

As part of the Panmunjeom Declaration, both North and South Korea will open a liaison office in Pyongyang on Friday which is expected to provide&nbsp;stable communication between the two.

The ambassador also said that the Indian side has shown a close interest in the development of the region. He said, "We talk with them (India) and the Indian side sees development in Korean Peninsula with a&nbsp;positive attitude."

He, however,&nbsp;refrained from commenting on North Korea and Pakistan link, the South Korean ambassador said, "Nuclear issue is sensitive to every country. India has the experience to negotiate with other countries and naturally, India will have close interest in the development of the Korean peninsula."

India has been talking about raising the North Korea-Pakistan nuclear link many times. The ministry of external affairs in its statement after US president Trump and North Korean leader Kim's summit had said, "We also hope that the resolution of the Korean Peninsula issue will take into account and address our concerns about proliferation linkages extending to India’s neighbourhood.” 
&nbsp;

US president Trump had conceded lack of action on denuclearisation by North Korea

Ahead of the second inter-Korean summit next week, South Korean ambassador to India Shin Bongkil has said the world should have patience when it comes to the North Korean denuclearisation issue. Also Read: Trump thanks Kim for not showcasing ICBMs at North Korea military parade Speaking exclusively to WION, South Korean ambassador said, "Solving this issue in a period of time may not be unrealistic. We should have patience. There will be up and down but we won't give up the determination." Accepting that North Korean and US nuclear negotiation "faces some dilemma and certain impasse" he said his "President's visit to North Korea will help facilitate US-North Korea negotiation and also reconciliation between North and South and ease any tension." The visit by South Korean president Moon Jae-in for the summit was decided during the first inter-Korean summit earlier this year. The second inter-Korean summit will take place from 18th to 20th September. Bongkil added, "Nuclear negotiation is very difficult and complex issue" and if "we can't resolve the issue there will be serious consequence." Recently, US president Trump had conceded lack of action on denuclearisation by North Korea and had cancelled a visit by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo's to the country. Tweeting about the cancellation of visit the US president had said, “I feel we are not making sufficient progress with respect to the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.” As part of the Panmunjeom Declaration, both North and South Korea will open a liaison office in Pyongyang on Friday which is expected to provide stable communication between the two. The ambassador also said that the Indian side has shown a close interest in the development of the region. He said, "We talk with them (India) and the Indian side sees development in Korean Peninsula with a positive attitude." He, however, refrained from commenting on North Korea and Pakistan link, the South Korean ambassador said, "Nuclear issue is sensitive to every country. India has the experience to negotiate with other countries and naturally, India will have close interest in the development of the Korean peninsula." India has been talking about raising the North Korea-Pakistan nuclear link many times. The ministry of external affairs in its statement after US president Trump and North Korean leader Kim's summit had said, "We also hope that the resolution of the Korean Peninsula issue will take into account and address our concerns about proliferation linkages extending to India’s neighbourhood.”

We should have patience on denuclearisation: South Korean ambassador Bongkil

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday was admitted to a hospital in Candolim and is undergoing treatment, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

Parrikar underwent treatment at a US hospital earlier this year.&nbsp

He went back to the country again on August 10 for a follow-up and returned on August 22. He was later admitted to a private hospital in Mumbai the next day due to health complications.

He once again left for the US on August 29 midnight.&nbsp

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Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has been admitted to hospital today afternoon in Candolim and is undergoing treatment: Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo to ANI (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/YtcoFbJ9dO">pic.twitter.com/YtcoFbJ9dO</a>
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Meanwhile, Goa Congress spokesperson Ramakant Khalap earlier this month demanded President's rule in the state in the backdrop of the long absence of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar.

"For the last six months, the administration is in turmoil. Adding to the ailment of the Chief Minister, two more ministers have fallen ill," Khalap said at a press conference.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

Goa CM went back to the US on August 10 for a follow-up and returned on August 22. He was later admitted to a private hospital in Mumbai the next day due to health complications.

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday was admitted to a hospital in Candolim and is undergoing treatment, news agency ANI reported. Parrikar underwent treatment at a US hospital earlier this year. He went back to the country again on August 10 for a follow-up and returned on August 22. He was later admitted to a private hospital in Mumbai the next day due to health complications. He once again left for the US on August 29 midnight. Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has been admitted to hospital today afternoon in Candolim and is undergoing treatment: Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo to ANI (file pic) pic.twitter.com/YtcoFbJ9dO — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 × Meanwhile, Goa Congress spokesperson Ramakant Khalap earlier this month demanded President's rule in the state in the backdrop of the long absence of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. "For the last six months, the administration is in turmoil. Adding to the ailment of the Chief Minister, two more ministers have fallen ill," Khalap said at a press conference. (With inputs from ANI)

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar admitted to hospital in Candolim 

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday appointed Justice Ranjan Gogoi as the next Chief Justice of India, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

Justice Gogoi will assume office on October 3, 2018, &nbspafter the retirement of the current CJI Justice Dipak Misra.

According to reports, Justice Misra had written to the government recommending Justice Ranjan Gogoi as his successor.

Justice Gogoi will stay in the post till November 17 next year.&nbsp

Justice Gogoi and the three senior-most judges after him have had a run in with Chief Justice Misra.&nbsp

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President of India has appointed Justice Ranjan Gogoi as the next Chief Justice of India. He will assume office on 3rd October, 2018 after the retirement of the current Chief Justice, Justice Dipak Misra. <a href="https://t.co/UAIe6P8qNV">pic.twitter.com/UAIe6P8qNV</a>
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In January, the four judges — Justices Jasti Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, MB Lokur and Kurian Joseph — held an unprecedented press conference.

The judges hinted they were unhappy with the functioning of the court.&nbsp

The press conference, the like of which has never been seen before in India, was read as a virtual revolt against Chief Justice Misra.&nbsp

&nbsp

Justice Gogoi will assume office on October 3, 2018, after the retirement of the current CJI Justice Dipak Misra.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday appointed Justice Ranjan Gogoi as the next Chief Justice of India, news agency ANI reported. Justice Gogoi will assume office on October 3, 2018, &nbspafter the retirement of the current CJI Justice Dipak Misra. According to reports, Justice Misra had written to the government recommending Justice Ranjan Gogoi as his successor. Justice Gogoi will stay in the post till November 17 next year. Justice Gogoi and the three senior-most judges after him have had a run in with Chief Justice Misra. President of India has appointed Justice Ranjan Gogoi as the next Chief Justice of India. He will assume office on 3rd October, 2018 after the retirement of the current Chief Justice, Justice Dipak Misra. pic.twitter.com/UAIe6P8qNV — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 × In January, the four judges — Justices Jasti Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, MB Lokur and Kurian Joseph — held an unprecedented press conference. The judges hinted they were unhappy with the functioning of the court. The press conference, the like of which has never been seen before in India, was read as a virtual revolt against Chief Justice Misra.

President Kovind appoints Justice Gogoi as next CJI

A protest erupted after Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) sealed a mosque in the Sheetla Mata Colony in Gurgoan area on Wednesday, a week after the locality experienced tension over the use of loudspeakers at a mosque in the area.&nbsp;

While an official claimed that the newly built structure fell within the restricted radius of &nbsp;300 metres from an Indian Air Force (IAF) ammunition depot, protesters blamed the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. &nbsp;

A PTI report quoting an official said that the MCG has also sealed 11 more newly built structures which came under the radius of 300 metres from the ammunition depot.

However, peeved by the move, a large number of people gathered at the site and sat on a dharna against the MCG and the district administration.

Hazi Sahjad Khan, president of Muslim Ekta Manch, alleged that the move of the MCG was "intentional and outrageous".

"We understand the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. They want us to do unlawful activities so that they could make it a bigger issue. We have objections against the move but will not take law in our hands and sit here for a silent protest," Khan was quoted as saying.

Hazi Sahjad Khan, president of Muslim Ekta Manch, alleged that the move of the MCG was 'intentional and outrageous'.

A protest erupted after Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) sealed a mosque in the Sheetla Mata Colony in Gurgoan area on Wednesday, a week after the locality experienced tension over the use of loudspeakers at a mosque in the area. While an official claimed that the newly built structure fell within the restricted radius of 300 metres from an Indian Air Force (IAF) ammunition depot, protesters blamed the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. A PTI report quoting an official said that the MCG has also sealed 11 more newly built structures which came under the radius of 300 metres from the ammunition depot. However, peeved by the move, a large number of people gathered at the site and sat on a dharna against the MCG and the district administration. Hazi Sahjad Khan, president of Muslim Ekta Manch, alleged that the move of the MCG was "intentional and outrageous". "We understand the intention of MCG which is backed by BJP government of Haryana. They want us to do unlawful activities so that they could make it a bigger issue. We have objections against the move but will not take law in our hands and sit here for a silent protest," Khan was quoted as saying.

Civic body seals Gurgaon mosque, says it is too close to IAF ammunition depot

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/cancelling-military-aid-to-pak-done-despite-fear-of-nukes-falling-into-hands-of-terrorists-us-nsa-bolton-165446">Cancelling military aid to Pak done despite fear of nukes falling into hands of terrorists: US NSA Bolton</a>

The US' decision to suspend military aid to nuclear-armed Pakistan was not taken lightly as the Trump administration was concerned that the country's atomic weapons could fall into the hands of terrorists, National Security Adviser John Bolton said.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/hurricane-florence-approaches-us-east-coast-over-15-million-people-ordered-to-evacuate-165426">Hurricane Florence approaches US east coast over 1.5 million people ordered to evacuate</a>

Dangerous Hurricane Florence edged closer Thursday to delivering a powerful blow to the east coast of the United States, with forecasters warning of life-threatening rainfall and flooding even as it weakened to a Category 2 storm.

<a href="http://wionews.com/sports/indias-shastri-under-fire-after-england-series-defeat-165433">Indian coach Shastri under fire after England series defeat</a>

India coach Ravi Shastri has come under fire for his side's humiliating 4-1 Test series loss to England -- a second consecutive away defeat for the world's top-ranked side.

<a href="http://wionews.com/business-%26-economy/india-and-pakistan-have-driven-global-sugar-glut-australias-minister-for-trade-165427">India and Pakistan have driven global sugar glut: Australia's minister for trade</a>

The policies of India and Pakistan have contributed to a global glut in the world's sugar market, Australia's Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham told Reuters.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/visited-britain-as-tourists-say-suspects-accused-by-britain-of--poisoning-ex-russian-spy-skripal-165440">Visited Britain as tourists, say suspects accused by Britain of poisoning ex-Russian spy Skripal</a>

Two men accused by Britain of poisoning former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia have told Russian media that they visited the British city of Salisbury as tourists and denied having anything to do with the murder attempt.

Cancelling military aid to Pak done despite fear of nukes falling into hands of terrorists: US NSA Bolton The US' decision to suspend military aid to nuclear-armed Pakistan was not taken lightly as the Trump administration was concerned that the country's atomic weapons could fall into the hands of terrorists, National Security Adviser John Bolton said. Hurricane Florence approaches US east coast over 1.5 million people ordered to evacuate Dangerous Hurricane Florence edged closer Thursday to delivering a powerful blow to the east coast of the United States, with forecasters warning of life-threatening rainfall and flooding even as it weakened to a Category 2 storm. Indian coach Shastri under fire after England series defeat India coach Ravi Shastri has come under fire for his side's humiliating 4-1 Test series loss to England -- a second consecutive away defeat for the world's top-ranked side. India and Pakistan have driven global sugar glut: Australia's minister for trade The policies of India and Pakistan have contributed to a global glut in the world's sugar market, Australia's Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham told Reuters. Visited Britain as tourists, say suspects accused by Britain of poisoning ex-Russian spy Skripal Two men accused by Britain of poisoning former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia have told Russian media that they visited the British city of Salisbury as tourists and denied having anything to do with the murder attempt.

US President Trump's security team has an Indian face - Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia.

Minister of state for housing & urban affairs in the Modi government, Hardeep Singh Puri informed in his Twitter handle that Anshdeep went to court after he was reportedly asked to change his "looks". Anshdeep won the case and was inducted into President Trump's security detail.

"Sikh sangat (community) is proud as he now becomes the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into US President’s security detail,” minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced on micro-blogging site.

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Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia refused to change his 'looks' & went to court against this rider. 
 
Sikh sangat is proud as he now becomes the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into US President's security detail. 
 
ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥ 
ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸਾਚਿ ਸਮਾਵੈ ॥੨੭॥ <a href="https://t.co/cKGcUQyTCw">pic.twitter.com/cKGcUQyTCw</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1039783599136890880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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People on Twitter took to Anshdeep in a big way, congratulating him on his achievement:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnshdeepSinghBhatia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnshdeepSinghBhatia</a> सर् जी आपको लख, लख बधाइयाँ???? 
 
आपने अपने " धर्म व देश " का नाम रोशन किया है 
 
अपने धर्म का पालन करना सब का अधिकार है? 
 
आपके जैसा सब करे तो अच्छा पालन जरूर करे 
 
न कि दिखावा....?
— ??S R SUTHAR (@savlaramrsuthar) <a href="https://twitter.com/savlaramrsuthar/status/1040104921276661760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Look at this picture —my word Anshdeep Singh Bhatia looks so very stoic, strong and determined in this frame ! 
 
Moments of glory indeed and a proud feeling ! 
 
Jo Bole So Nihaal. Sat Sri Akal
— Ashok Nellikar (@AshokNellikar) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshokNellikar/status/1039912238155526144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

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Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia becomes the first sikh to be inducted in the security team of US President Donald Trump. <a href="https://t.co/SFpr1V04Mn">pic.twitter.com/SFpr1V04Mn</a>
— Balaji Duraisamy (@balajidtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/balajidtweets/status/1039903365927522304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Minister of state for housing & urban affairs in the Modi government, Hardeep Singh Puri informed in his Twitter handle that Anshdeep

US President Trump's security team has an Indian face - Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia. Minister of state for housing & urban affairs in the Modi government, Hardeep Singh Puri informed in his Twitter handle that Anshdeep went to court after he was reportedly asked to change his "looks". Anshdeep won the case and was inducted into President Trump's security detail. "Sikh sangat (community) is proud as he now becomes the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into US President’s security detail,” minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced on micro-blogging site. Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia refused to change his 'looks' & went to court against this rider. Sikh sangat is proud as he now becomes the first turbaned Sikh to be inducted into US President's security detail. ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸਾਚਿ ਸਮਾਵੈ ॥੨੭॥ pic.twitter.com/cKGcUQyTCw — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) September 12, 2018 × People on Twitter took to Anshdeep in a big way, congratulating him on his achievement: #AnshdeepSinghBhatia सर् जी आपको लख, लख बधाइयाँ???? आपने अपने " धर्म व देश " का नाम रोशन किया है अपने धर्म का पालन करना सब का अधिकार है? आपके जैसा सब करे तो अच्छा पालन जरूर करे न कि दिखावा....? — ??S R SUTHAR (@savlaramrsuthar) September 13, 2018 × Look at this picture —my word Anshdeep Singh Bhatia looks so very stoic, strong and determined in this frame ! Moments of glory indeed and a proud feeling ! Jo Bole So Nihaal. Sat Sri Akal — Ashok Nellikar (@AshokNellikar) September 12, 2018 × Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia becomes the first sikh to be inducted in the security team of US President Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/SFpr1V04Mn — Balaji Duraisamy (@balajidtweets) September 12, 2018 ×

Watch: Ludhiana-born Anshdeep Singh Bhatia joins Trump's security team

Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi on Thursday claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad had put pressure on him to not complain against Vijay Mallya, news agency ANI reported.

Rizvi stated that he wanted to complain against Mallya for encroaching upon a Shia Waqf Board property near Meerut.

Rizvi's comments come at a time when the Congress and the BJP are busy mudslinging&nbsp;over Vijay Mallya's revelation on his meeting with Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley before leaving the country.&nbsp;

The Congress on Thursday claimed that Vijay Mallya had met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament on March 1, 2016, and that the two of them had talked for 15 to 20 minutes.&nbsp;

Congress MP PL Punia stated that the CCTV cameras in the hall could be checked to corroborate his claim.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi claims that Rahul Gandhi and Ghulam Nabi Azad put pressure on him to not complain against Vijay Mallya who Rizvi says had encroached upon a Shia Waqf Board property near Meerut. <a href="https://t.co/MnJBmJZAR7">pic.twitter.com/MnJBmJZAR7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1040214772635947009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mallya on Wednesday dropped a bombshell saying that he had met Jaitley and had told him that he was leaving for the UK. He added that he had repeated his offer to settle with the banks to Jaitley.&nbsp;

Jaitley refuted Mallya's claim, saying it was "factually false".

He said Mallya, who was a Rajya Sabha MP at the time, had accosted him in a Parliament corridor. Jaitley said he cut Mallya off and told him that if he wanted to settle, then he should be talking to the banks.&nbsp;

Mallya had backed down from his claim after's Jaitley's rebuttal, saying that he only "happened to meet" the finance minister and that it was not a "formal meeting".&nbsp;

The opposition however very quickly latched on to Mallya's claim and demanded a probe. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rizvi stated that he wanted to complain against Mallya for encroaching upon a Shia Waqf Board property near Meerut.

Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi on Thursday claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad had put pressure on him to not complain against Vijay Mallya, news agency ANI reported. Rizvi stated that he wanted to complain against Mallya for encroaching upon a Shia Waqf Board property near Meerut. Rizvi's comments come at a time when the Congress and the BJP are busy mudslinging over Vijay Mallya's revelation on his meeting with Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley before leaving the country. The Congress on Thursday claimed that Vijay Mallya had met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament on March 1, 2016, and that the two of them had talked for 15 to 20 minutes. Congress MP PL Punia stated that the CCTV cameras in the hall could be checked to corroborate his claim. #WATCH: Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi claims that Rahul Gandhi and Ghulam Nabi Azad put pressure on him to not complain against Vijay Mallya who Rizvi says had encroached upon a Shia Waqf Board property near Meerut. pic.twitter.com/MnJBmJZAR7 — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2018 × Mallya on Wednesday dropped a bombshell saying that he had met Jaitley and had told him that he was leaving for the UK. He added that he had repeated his offer to settle with the banks to Jaitley. Jaitley refuted Mallya's claim, saying it was "factually false". He said Mallya, who was a Rajya Sabha MP at the time, had accosted him in a Parliament corridor. Jaitley said he cut Mallya off and told him that if he wanted to settle, then he should be talking to the banks. Mallya had backed down from his claim after's Jaitley's rebuttal, saying that he only "happened to meet" the finance minister and that it was not a "formal meeting". The opposition however very quickly latched on to Mallya's claim and demanded a probe. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi, Azad put pressure to not complain against Mallya: UP Shia Waqf chairman 

The Delhi High Court on Thursday granted bail to a Kashmiri businessman who was arrested in connection to an alleged terror funding case, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

According to reports, Zahoor Watali was arrested for his alleged role in a terror-funding case that involved Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Watali is supposed to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs 2 lakh with two surety of the same amount. He has also been asked to submit his passport.&nbsp

The Srinagar-based businessman was lodged in Delhi's Tihar jail. He was arrested in August last year.

Watali moved the Delhi High Court after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court had rejected his bail plea.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

Watali moved the Delhi High Court after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court had rejected his bail plea.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday granted bail to a Kashmiri businessman who was arrested in connection to an alleged terror funding case, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, Zahoor Watali was arrested for his alleged role in a terror-funding case that involved Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Watali is supposed to furnish a personal bail bond of Rs 2 lakh with two surety of the same amount. He has also been asked to submit his passport. The Srinagar-based businessman was lodged in Delhi's Tihar jail. He was arrested in August last year. Watali moved the Delhi High Court after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court had rejected his bail plea. (With inputs from ANI)

J&K terror funding case: Delhi HC grants bail to Kashmiri businessman Zahoor Watali

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Rahul Gandhi, Azad put pressure to not complain against Mallya: UP Shia Waqf chairman

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