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The Gujarat government claimed on Tuesday that Patidar leader Hardik Patel’s quota movement was a politically-motivated agitation with the backing of the Congress.

This is for the first time that the BJP government has reacted to the agitation of the 25-year-old, who has been on an indefinite fast for the last 11 days, demanding loan waiver for farmers and quota for Patidars in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category.

In a statement, Energy Minister Saurabh Patel said, “Patidar quota agitation is a political stir backed by the Congress. Ever since the agitation started three years back, we suspected that the Congress was behind it. Now, our suspicion has come true.”

Saurabh said the Congress leaders who went to meet Hardik at his residence are those who are “anti-BJP and opponents of Prime Minister Narendra Modi”.

“The quota stir is politically-motivated. The Congress needs to make its stand clear about reservation when the Supreme Court and various high courts have already made it clear that quota cannot go beyond 50 per cent,” the minister said.

He urged the quota-agitation spearhead to allow doctors to conduct his medical check-up. “We are also worried about his health. Our government wants him to cooperate with doctors,” the BJP leader said, adding that a fully-equipped ambulance – ‘ICU on Wheels’, and a team of doctors have been deployed at his residence.

Thanking the Patidar community for its “cooperation and maintaining peace” during the agitation, Saurabh said the government’s door was open for talks. “Since this agitation is a politically-motivated one, it has to end through political means. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani’s government is committed to maintain peace in the state,” he added.

Hardik had launched his hunger strike on August 25, the third anniversary of his mega pro-quota rally in Ahmedabad which had turned violent that day in 2015.

He had Sunday released his “will” in which he divided his property among his parents, a sister, 14 youths killed during the quota agitation in 2015 and a panjrapole (shelter for ill and old cows) near his village.

Apart from the Congress, leaders and representatives of the Aam Aadmi Party, Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) have so far visited Hardik at his residence and extended their support to him.

Energy Minister Saurabh Patel said that the Congress leaders who went to meet Hardik at his residence are those who are "anti-BJP and opponents of Prime Minister Narendra Modi".

The Gujarat government claimed on Tuesday that Patidar leader Hardik Patel’s quota movement was a politically-motivated agitation with the backing of the Congress. This is for the first time that the BJP government has reacted to the agitation of the 25-year-old, who has been on an indefinite fast for the last 11 days, demanding loan waiver for farmers and quota for Patidars in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category. In a statement, Energy Minister Saurabh Patel said, “Patidar quota agitation is a political stir backed by the Congress. Ever since the agitation started three years back, we suspected that the Congress was behind it. Now, our suspicion has come true.” Saurabh said the Congress leaders who went to meet Hardik at his residence are those who are “anti-BJP and opponents of Prime Minister Narendra Modi”. “The quota stir is politically-motivated. The Congress needs to make its stand clear about reservation when the Supreme Court and various high courts have already made it clear that quota cannot go beyond 50 per cent,” the minister said. He urged the quota-agitation spearhead to allow doctors to conduct his medical check-up. “We are also worried about his health. Our government wants him to cooperate with doctors,” the BJP leader said, adding that a fully-equipped ambulance – ‘ICU on Wheels’, and a team of doctors have been deployed at his residence. Thanking the Patidar community for its “cooperation and maintaining peace” during the agitation, Saurabh said the government’s door was open for talks. “Since this agitation is a politically-motivated one, it has to end through political means. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani’s government is committed to maintain peace in the state,” he added. Hardik had launched his hunger strike on August 25, the third anniversary of his mega pro-quota rally in Ahmedabad which had turned violent that day in 2015. He had Sunday released his “will” in which he divided his property among his parents, a sister, 14 youths killed during the quota agitation in 2015 and a panjrapole (shelter for ill and old cows) near his village. Apart from the Congress, leaders and representatives of the Aam Aadmi Party, Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) have so far visited Hardik at his residence and extended their support to him.

Hardik Patel’s fast a political stir backed by Congress: Gujarat govt

Aerospace major Lockheed Martin plans to produce the wings of its F-16 fighter aircraft in India.

According to the American security and global aerospace giant, the production would be undertaken in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems (TASL).

This strategic initiative positions Tata Advanced Systems Limited's (TASL) to become the provider of wings for all future customers and strengthens their role in the F-16 global supply chain. TASL is Lockheed Martin's strategic industry partner in India.

Producing F-16 wings in India will strengthen Lockheed Martin's strategic partnership with Tata and support 'Make in India'. The planned F-16 wing production move to India is not contingent on the Government of India selecting the F-16 for the Indian Air Force.

"Building F-16 wings in India is a natural next step that builds on our successful partnerships with Tata on the C-130J [airlifter] and S-92 [helicopter]," said Vivek Lall, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

"This is a strategic business decision that reflects the value of our partnerships with India and the confidence we have in Tata to perform advanced defence manufacturing work and deliver world-class products," added Vivek.

Lockheed Martin's broader proposed F-16 partnership with India - to produce F-16s exclusively in India for the Indian Air Force and export customers - stands firm. Lockheed Martin recently submitted a comprehensive, fully compliant 600-plus page Request for Information (RFI) response to the Indian Air Force.

Lockheed Martin and TASL announced last year that the two companies intend to join hands to produce the F-16 Block 70 in India if the aircraft is selected by the Indian Air Force.

Modi has been pushing for local manufacturing that will provide jobs and also end the military’s dependence on imports.

Lockheed’s announcement came just days ahead of top-level talks between the United States and India aimed at expanding defence ties.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will meet with Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Boeing has pitched its F/A-18 Super Hornet for the Indian contract as well as Sweden’s Saab with its Gripen fighter. France’s Dassault Systemes SE’s Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon and Russian aircraft are also in the fray.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lockheed’s announcement came just days ahead of top-level talks between the United States and India aimed at expanding defence ties.

Aerospace major Lockheed Martin plans to produce the wings of its F-16 fighter aircraft in India. According to the American security and global aerospace giant, the production would be undertaken in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems (TASL). This strategic initiative positions Tata Advanced Systems Limited's (TASL) to become the provider of wings for all future customers and strengthens their role in the F-16 global supply chain. TASL is Lockheed Martin's strategic industry partner in India. Producing F-16 wings in India will strengthen Lockheed Martin's strategic partnership with Tata and support 'Make in India'. The planned F-16 wing production move to India is not contingent on the Government of India selecting the F-16 for the Indian Air Force. "Building F-16 wings in India is a natural next step that builds on our successful partnerships with Tata on the C-130J [airlifter] and S-92 [helicopter]," said Vivek Lall, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. "This is a strategic business decision that reflects the value of our partnerships with India and the confidence we have in Tata to perform advanced defence manufacturing work and deliver world-class products," added Vivek. Lockheed Martin's broader proposed F-16 partnership with India - to produce F-16s exclusively in India for the Indian Air Force and export customers - stands firm. Lockheed Martin recently submitted a comprehensive, fully compliant 600-plus page Request for Information (RFI) response to the Indian Air Force. Lockheed Martin and TASL announced last year that the two companies intend to join hands to produce the F-16 Block 70 in India if the aircraft is selected by the Indian Air Force. Modi has been pushing for local manufacturing that will provide jobs and also end the military’s dependence on imports. Lockheed’s announcement came just days ahead of top-level talks between the United States and India aimed at expanding defence ties. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will meet with Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Boeing has pitched its F/A-18 Super Hornet for the Indian contract as well as Sweden’s Saab with its Gripen fighter. France’s Dassault Systemes SE’s Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon and Russian aircraft are also in the fray. (With inputs from agencies)

Tata to make wings for Lockheed Martin's F-16 fighter jets in India

Goa Congress spokesperson Ramakant Khalap on Monday demanded President's rule in the state in the backdrop of the long absence of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is currently in the United States for a medical treatment.

"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 while talking about Goa's Power Minister Pandurang Madkaikar and Urban Development minister Francis D'Souza.

Demanding dismissal of the Goa government, Khalap further demanded that the Governor should intervene in the matter. "We continue to pray for good health of all of them, but we cannot sit idle and watch helplessness of people in Goa. The Governor should intervene. We demand that the Goa government be dismissed and President's rule be imposed in the state," Khalap added.

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, but 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 and is now expected to return later this week.&nbsp

Demanding dismissal of the Goa government, Goa Congress spokesperson Ramakant Khalap called for Governor's intervention.

Goa Congress spokesperson Ramakant Khalap on Monday demanded President's rule in the state in the backdrop of the long absence of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is currently in the United States for a medical treatment. "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 while talking about Goa's Power Minister Pandurang Madkaikar and Urban Development minister Francis D'Souza. Demanding dismissal of the Goa government, Khalap further demanded that the Governor should intervene in the matter. "We continue to pray for good health of all of them, but we cannot sit idle and watch helplessness of people in Goa. The Governor should intervene. We demand that the Goa government be dismissed and President's rule be imposed in the state," Khalap added. 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, but 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 and is now expected to return later this week.

In Parrikar's absence, Congress demands President's rule in Goa

A portion of the arterial Majerhat bridge collapsed, police sources said. The Army said it has sent a field hospital detachment to the area to help in the rescue operations.

Flyover collapsed in western part of Kolkata

A flyover collapsed in western part of Kolkata on Tuesday in West Bengal with several people feared trapped.

Flyover collapses in Kolkata; several feared trapped

Army Chief Bipin Rawat on Tuesday referred to the Army officer Major Leetul Gogoi case stating that any incident of "moral turpitude and corruption will be dealt with sternly".&nbsp;

He also shared that a court of inquiry has been conducted which has recommended court-martial proceedings for Major Gogoi "for whatever he has been found guilty of," the Chief stated.&nbsp;

Army Chief Bipin Rawat had previously said exemplary punishment would be given to Major Gogoi if he was found guilty of "any offence". 
&nbsp; 
"If any officer of the Indian army is found guilty of any offence, we will take strictest possible action," the army chief told reporters at Pahalgham in May.&nbsp;

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Talking about Major Gogoi, I had clearly said that any case of moral turpitude&corruption will be dealt with sternly. A court of inquiry has been conducted which has recommended that we should go in for court martial proceedings for whatever he has been found guilty of:Army Chief <a href="https://t.co/wU4F1jZHS9">pic.twitter.com/wU4F1jZHS9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036854506431160320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"If Major Gogoi has done something wrong, I assure you that he will be awarded punishment at the earliest...The punishment will set an example," he stated.

A court of inquiry was ordered against Major Gogoi who was briefly detained by police in Srinagar after an altercation when he was allegedly trying to enter a hotel with an 18-year-old woman.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police had initiated an inquiry into the incident.

Major Gogoi sparked an outcry when he tied a civilian to the bonnet of his vehicle in Kashmir last year.

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&nbsp;

A court of inquiry has been conducted which has recommended court-martial proceedings for Major Gogoi.

Army Chief Bipin Rawat on Tuesday referred to the Army officer Major Leetul Gogoi case stating that any incident of "moral turpitude and corruption will be dealt with sternly". He also shared that a court of inquiry has been conducted which has recommended court-martial proceedings for Major Gogoi "for whatever he has been found guilty of," the Chief stated. Army Chief Bipin Rawat had previously said exemplary punishment would be given to Major Gogoi if he was found guilty of "any offence". "If any officer of the Indian army is found guilty of any offence, we will take strictest possible action," the army chief told reporters at Pahalgham in May. Talking about Major Gogoi, I had clearly said that any case of moral turpitude&corruption will be dealt with sternly. A court of inquiry has been conducted which has recommended that we should go in for court martial proceedings for whatever he has been found guilty of:Army Chief pic.twitter.com/wU4F1jZHS9 — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × "If Major Gogoi has done something wrong, I assure you that he will be awarded punishment at the earliest...The punishment will set an example," he stated. A court of inquiry was ordered against Major Gogoi who was briefly detained by police in Srinagar after an altercation when he was allegedly trying to enter a hotel with an 18-year-old woman. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had initiated an inquiry into the incident. Major Gogoi sparked an outcry when he tied a civilian to the bonnet of his vehicle in Kashmir last year. ×

Any case of moral turpitude will be sternly dealt with: Army Chief on Major Gogoi

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Tuesday blamed the NDA government for rising in petrol and diesel prices, saying it was happening due to “excessive taxes”. In a series of tweets, the former finance minister also demanded that petrol and diesel be brought under the GST immediately.

“Relentless rise in prices of petrol and diesel is not inevitable. Because the price is built up by excessive taxes on petrol and diesel. If taxes are cut, prices will decline significantly,” he said. Chidambaram said the central government blaming the states is a “spurious argument”.

“The BJP forgets that its boast that BJP is ruling 19 States. Centre and States must act together and bring petrol and diesel under GST. Congress demands that petrol and diesel be brought under GST immediately (sic),” he tweeted. Petrol and diesel prices in the country touched their highest levels Monday mainly due to fall in rupee and a sharp rise in crude oil rates.

Petrol price in Delhi rose to a record Rs 79.15 a litre and diesel climbed to a fresh high of Rs 71.15, according to price notification of state-owned fuel retailers. This follows a 31 paise/litre hike in prices on Monday. Rates have breached the previous high of Rs 78.43 a litre hit on May 28. On that day, the rate in Mumbai was Rs 86.24 per litre. A litre of petrol in Mumbai costs Rs 86.56 on Monday.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Tuesday blamed the NDA government for rise in petrol and diesel prices, saying it was happening due to "excessive taxes".

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Tuesday blamed the NDA government for rising in petrol and diesel prices, saying it was happening due to “excessive taxes”. In a series of tweets, the former finance minister also demanded that petrol and diesel be brought under the GST immediately. “Relentless rise in prices of petrol and diesel is not inevitable. Because the price is built up by excessive taxes on petrol and diesel. If taxes are cut, prices will decline significantly,” he said. Chidambaram said the central government blaming the states is a “spurious argument”. “The BJP forgets that its boast that BJP is ruling 19 States. Centre and States must act together and bring petrol and diesel under GST. Congress demands that petrol and diesel be brought under GST immediately (sic),” he tweeted. Petrol and diesel prices in the country touched their highest levels Monday mainly due to fall in rupee and a sharp rise in crude oil rates. Petrol price in Delhi rose to a record Rs 79.15 a litre and diesel climbed to a fresh high of Rs 71.15, according to price notification of state-owned fuel retailers. This follows a 31 paise/litre hike in prices on Monday. Rates have breached the previous high of Rs 78.43 a litre hit on May 28. On that day, the rate in Mumbai was Rs 86.24 per litre. A litre of petrol in Mumbai costs Rs 86.56 on Monday.

P Chidambaram blames government for rise in petrol prices, says it is due to ‘excessive taxes’

The United States and India will seek to finalise a number of defence agreements during high-level two-plus-two discussions this week that aim to draw their two armies closer and counter-balance China’s influence in the region.

A raft of key issues such as the US' sanctions on the import of Iranian crude oil, boosting cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and finalising a pact on encrypted defence technologies will be the focus of the inaugural <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/us-defence-secretary-james-mattis-secy-of-state-mike-pompeo-to-visit-india-tomorrow-163512">two-plus-two talks</a> between India and the US.

India's plan to ink a Rs 40,000 crore deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems may also figure in the talks, the sources indicated Tuesday.

Issues like enhancing trade, effectively dealing with terrorism and India's concerns over the Trump administration's decision to make changes in the H1B visa programme are also expected to figure prominently in the talks, they said.

Under the new framework finalised last year, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will hold talks with the US Secretary of State Mike R Pompeo and Secretary of Defence James Mattis.

As Secretary Pompeo arrives here tomorrow from Islamabad, India will also try to get his view about the new government in Pakistan headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan, the sources said.

Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford will also be part of the US delegation.

Swaraj will have a separate bilateral meeting with Pompeo while Sitharaman will have a one-on-one meeting with Mattis on Thursday morning before the delegation-level two-plus-two talks.

Twelve officials from each side are expected to attend the talks which will be followed by a luncheon meeting.

In the afternoon, Swaraj, Sitharaman, Pompeo and Mattis will call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The sources said the focus of the talks will be to lift the strategic engagement between the two countries to a "whole of government approach" covering a wide range of areas for cooperation.

Significantly boosting defence and security cooperation, including in areas of co-development of military platforms, will be a priority, they said.

Referring to India's yet to be inked S-400 missile deal with Russia, the sources said it was for the US to decide on what steps it may take.

India's position on the issue has been that it will go ahead with the deal notwithstanding American sanctions on military transactions with Moscow.

On US sanctions on the import of Iranian oil, the sources said India will also explain to the US delegation its position on the issue, including how the import has been crucial for India's energy security.

In May, the US withdrew from the landmark Iran nuclear deal and re-imposed the sanctions that had been suspended in return for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme.

Iran is India's third-largest oil supplier after Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The US' sanctions on the import of Iranian petroleum products will be effective from November 4.

India and the US will also attempt to firm up a long-negotiated agreement which will provide for obtaining critical and encrypted defence technologies by the Indian military from the US, official sources said.

Both sides will discuss the long-pending Communications, Compatibility, Security Agreement (COMCASA), the sources said.

The COMCASA will help India obtain critical and encrypted defence technologies for Indian defence platforms from the US.

The sources said ways to bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and ways to deal with the challenge of terrorism will figure prominently in the talks.

The US delegation will arrive here tomorrow. While Secretary Pompeo will leave from India Thursday evening, Secretary Mattis will depart on Friday.

Defence Minister Sitharaman will host a dinner for him on Thursday evening.

Twelve officials from each side are expected to attend the talks which will be followed by a luncheon meeting.

The United States and India will seek to finalise a number of defence agreements during high-level two-plus-two discussions this week that aim to draw their two armies closer and counter-balance China’s influence in the region. A raft of key issues such as the US' sanctions on the import of Iranian crude oil, boosting cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and finalising a pact on encrypted defence technologies will be the focus of the inaugural two-plus-two talks between India and the US. India's plan to ink a Rs 40,000 crore deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems may also figure in the talks, the sources indicated Tuesday. Issues like enhancing trade, effectively dealing with terrorism and India's concerns over the Trump administration's decision to make changes in the H1B visa programme are also expected to figure prominently in the talks, they said. Under the new framework finalised last year, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will hold talks with the US Secretary of State Mike R Pompeo and Secretary of Defence James Mattis. As Secretary Pompeo arrives here tomorrow from Islamabad, India will also try to get his view about the new government in Pakistan headed by Prime Minister Imran Khan, the sources said. Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford will also be part of the US delegation. Swaraj will have a separate bilateral meeting with Pompeo while Sitharaman will have a one-on-one meeting with Mattis on Thursday morning before the delegation-level two-plus-two talks. Twelve officials from each side are expected to attend the talks which will be followed by a luncheon meeting. In the afternoon, Swaraj, Sitharaman, Pompeo and Mattis will call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The sources said the focus of the talks will be to lift the strategic engagement between the two countries to a "whole of government approach" covering a wide range of areas for cooperation. Significantly boosting defence and security cooperation, including in areas of co-development of military platforms, will be a priority, they said. Referring to India's yet to be inked S-400 missile deal with Russia, the sources said it was for the US to decide on what steps it may take. India's position on the issue has been that it will go ahead with the deal notwithstanding American sanctions on military transactions with Moscow. On US sanctions on the import of Iranian oil, the sources said India will also explain to the US delegation its position on the issue, including how the import has been crucial for India's energy security. In May, the US withdrew from the landmark Iran nuclear deal and re-imposed the sanctions that had been suspended in return for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran is India's third-largest oil supplier after Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The US' sanctions on the import of Iranian petroleum products will be effective from November 4. India and the US will also attempt to firm up a long-negotiated agreement which will provide for obtaining critical and encrypted defence technologies by the Indian military from the US, official sources said. Both sides will discuss the long-pending Communications, Compatibility, Security Agreement (COMCASA), the sources said. The COMCASA will help India obtain critical and encrypted defence technologies for Indian defence platforms from the US. The sources said ways to bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and ways to deal with the challenge of terrorism will figure prominently in the talks. The US delegation will arrive here tomorrow. While Secretary Pompeo will leave from India Thursday evening, Secretary Mattis will depart on Friday. Defence Minister Sitharaman will host a dinner for him on Thursday evening.

India, US to discuss sale of drones, exchange of satellite data during 2+2 talks

Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra has written to the government recommending that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-ranjan-gogoi-to-take-over-as-chief-justice-on-october-2-sources-162163?amp">Justice Ranjan Gogoi</a> succeed him.&nbsp;

Gogoi is expected to be sworn in as chief justice on October 3. Misra will step down a day earlier on October 2.&nbsp;

Gogoi, if he becomes the next chief justice, will stay in the post till November 17 next year.&nbsp;

Misra recommending Gogoi take over after him is in keeping with the tradition of an outgoing CJI recommending that the second seniormost judge take over after him.&nbsp;

With <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/aadhaar-homosexuality-adultery-the-big-judgements-awaited-before-cji-misra-retires-160868">under&nbsp;a month left for CJI Misra to demit office</a>, speculation had been rife that the succession might take an ugly turn.&nbsp;

There had been rumours earlier about the government introducing a bill to increase the retirement age of judges, but that speculation was put to rest by the law ministry.&nbsp;

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Gogoi and the three seniormost judges after him have had a run in with Chief Justice Misra.&nbsp;

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;

Gogoi is expected to be sworn in as chief justice on October 3. Misra will step down a day earlier on October 2.

Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra has written to the government recommending that Justice Ranjan Gogoi succeed him. Gogoi is expected to be sworn in as chief justice on October 3. Misra will step down a day earlier on October 2. Gogoi, if he becomes the next chief justice, will stay in the post till November 17 next year. Misra recommending Gogoi take over after him is in keeping with the tradition of an outgoing CJI recommending that the second seniormost judge take over after him. With under a month left for CJI Misra to demit office, speculation had been rife that the succession might take an ugly turn. There had been rumours earlier about the government introducing a bill to increase the retirement age of judges, but that speculation was put to rest by the law ministry. × Gogoi and the three seniormost judges after him have had a run in with Chief Justice Misra. 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.

CJI Dipak Misra writes to govt, recommends Justice Ranjan Gogoi as successor

A local Hyderabad court has convicted two of the men accused of carrying out the 2007 Hyderabad twin blasts case while acquitting two others.&nbsp;

Judgement on a fifth accused will be passed on Monday.&nbsp;

The men were not brought to court for security reasons. Their judgements were delivered via video conferencing. The men are being held in&nbsp;Cherlapalli Central Prison.&nbsp;

Forty-four people had died in the blasts, while 68 people had been injured.&nbsp;

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2007 Hyderabad twin blasts case: Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed & Ismail Chaudhary convicted. 2 people acquitted. Court to pronounce judgement on 1 more accused on September 10. Two more accused are absconding- Seshu Reddy, Special Public Prosecutor for Counter Intelligence <a href="https://t.co/HeBBNbv8rX">pic.twitter.com/HeBBNbv8rX</a>
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2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed and Ismail Chaudhary convicted. Two more accused in the case have been acquitted. <a href="https://t.co/LaIepC78y6">pic.twitter.com/LaIepC78y6</a>
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2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Judgement on one more accused to be pronounced on Monday. All five accused are lodged in Charlapalli Jail and two people are absconding. <a href="https://t.co/0bXr98qCdW">https://t.co/0bXr98qCdW</a>
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2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Two out of the five accused, Farooq Sharfuddin Tarkish & Mohd Sadiq Israr Shaik have been acquitted. The Court will pronounce judgement on one more accused Tareeq Anjum on Monday, September 10. Accused Riyaz Bhatkal & Iqbal Bhatkal are absconding. <a href="https://t.co/0bXr9891mo">https://t.co/0bXr9891mo</a>
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Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed and Ismail Chaudhary were the two men convicted, while Farooq Sharfuddin Tarkish and Mohd Sadiq Israr Shaik were the two men acquitted.&nbsp;

Judgement on Tarik Anjum will be passed on Monday.&nbsp;

Riyaz Bhatkal and Iqbal Bhatkal are absconding.&nbsp;

Police say all the men are Indian Mujahideen operatives.&nbsp;

Judgement on a fifth accused will be passed on Monday. Two men — Riyaz Bhatkal and Iqbal Bhatkal — are absconding.

A local Hyderabad court has convicted two of the men accused of carrying out the 2007 Hyderabad twin blasts case while acquitting two others. Judgement on a fifth accused will be passed on Monday. The men were not brought to court for security reasons. Their judgements were delivered via video conferencing. The men are being held in Cherlapalli Central Prison. Forty-four people had died in the blasts, while 68 people had been injured. 2007 Hyderabad twin blasts case: Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed & Ismail Chaudhary convicted. 2 people acquitted. Court to pronounce judgement on 1 more accused on September 10. Two more accused are absconding- Seshu Reddy, Special Public Prosecutor for Counter Intelligence pic.twitter.com/HeBBNbv8rX — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × 2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed and Ismail Chaudhary convicted. Two more accused in the case have been acquitted. pic.twitter.com/LaIepC78y6 — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × 2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Judgement on one more accused to be pronounced on Monday. All five accused are lodged in Charlapalli Jail and two people are absconding. https://t.co/0bXr98qCdW — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × 2007 Hyderabad Twin Blasts case: Two out of the five accused, Farooq Sharfuddin Tarkish & Mohd Sadiq Israr Shaik have been acquitted. The Court will pronounce judgement on one more accused Tareeq Anjum on Monday, September 10. Accused Riyaz Bhatkal & Iqbal Bhatkal are absconding. https://t.co/0bXr9891mo — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × Aneeq Shafeeq Sayeed and Ismail Chaudhary were the two men convicted, while Farooq Sharfuddin Tarkish and Mohd Sadiq Israr Shaik were the two men acquitted. Judgement on Tarik Anjum will be passed on Monday. Riyaz Bhatkal and Iqbal Bhatkal are absconding. Police say all the men are Indian Mujahideen operatives.

2007 Hyderabad twin blasts: Two Indian Mujahideen men convicted, 2 acquitted

Several women and girls have been victims of crimes and sexual violence in India – and the latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau indicate that crimes against women have increased by 34 per cent in the last four years. &nbsp;

As many as 2.5 million crimes against women have been reported in India over the last decade. Reported cases of crime against women increased 83 per cent from 185,312 in 2007 to 338,954 in 2016, data from NCRB showed.&nbsp;

When it comes to crimes against women, almost all categories have seen an uptick in recent years - with thousands of cases of dowry harassment, assault, kidnapping, and rape registered in the last year alone.&nbsp;

A report by NCRB published in 2017 indicated that the majority of cases categorised as crimes against women were reported under ‘cruelty by husband or his relatives’ (32.6 per cent), followed by ‘assault on woman with intent to outrage her modesty’ (25 per cent), ‘kidnapping and abduction of woman’ (19 per cent) and ‘rape’ (11.5 per cent).&nbsp;

A report by Thomson Reuters Foundation earlier this year tagged India as the world’s most dangerous place for women, citing declining cultural practices, sexual violence, and trafficking. When the same poll was conducted in 2011, India ranked fourth after Afghanistan, Congo, and Pakistan.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Screen Shot 2018-09-04 at 1.41.58 PM.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Screen%20Shot%202018-09-04%20at%201.41.58%20PM.png" width="770" />

Conviction Rate lowest&nbsp;

Considering the social stigma attached to it or the ordeal a victim goes through , it’s highly likely that the number of crimes being reported as well as the number of suspects being convicted are rather low. &nbsp;

A report by the Human Rights Watch from last year presented that the victims and survivors of sexual assault in India have to go through callous treatment from the police, doctors, and even lawyers throughout the process of holding culprits responsible.&nbsp;

The year 2016 saw the lowest conviction rate (18.9 per cent) – out of the total number of crime cases registered only 18.9 per cent of them ended in conviction of the culprit for crimes against women.&nbsp;

The two cases, the after math and the new law&nbsp;

The two sickening recent crimes – in Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir in January this year and in Unnao in Uttar Pradesh last year – put a big question mark on security and public institutions. The criminal laws of the past are not congruent with what is going on in today’s time. &nbsp;

In his 47th "Mann Ki Baat" programme PM Modi had said, "No civilised society can tolerate any kind of injustice towards women. The nation will not tolerate those committing rapes. With this point in view, Parliament has made a provision of strictest punishment by passing the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill."&nbsp;

The new bill, which was passed by the Parliament earlier in August this year, was replaced by the Criminal Law Ordinance, promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind on April 22. In light of the increased number of rape incidents in the country, a set of new measures to amend the Protection of Child from Sexual Offence Act (POCSO) were approved. &nbsp;

The new bill entails that criminals will face minimum of 20 years of jail which may go up to life in prison or death penalty, for the rape of a girl under 12 years of age. While perpetrators involved in the gang-rape of a girl below 12 years would get life imprisonment or death penalty. &nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Modi said that the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act will act as a deterrent against rape and also play an effective role in curbing crimes against women and young girls. 
 
To what extent will these laws be effective?

Since the new law has been passed, numerous rape cases have been registered. A teenager was raped in Delhi by two men, a 14-year-old girl was raped and killed in Thane, a woman was abducted and gang-raped by four men and dumped on a highway in Assam, a teen attempted suicide in Gujarat after being raped by relatives – and these are just some cases “registered” in the last week of August. &nbsp;

The chilling Delhi gang-rape five years ago brought heightened awareness over sexual crimes against women, which tapered down within few months. Similar was the case with the Kathua and Unnao incident - much outcry was made over justice for women after the incidents, but that did not work as a deterrent.

Although, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 (Nirbhaya Act) was enacted after the Delhi gang-rape, but this has not had much impact. There has not been any development in an ideal crime control system simply because more emphasis is given to proof rather than the truth. &nbsp;The root cause lies in the patriarchal mentalities. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When it comes to crimes against women, almost all categories have seen an uptick in recent years - with thousands of cases of dowry harassment, assault, kidnapping, and rape registered in the last year alone.

Several women and girls have been victims of crimes and sexual violence in India – and the latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau indicate that crimes against women have increased by 34 per cent in the last four years. As many as 2.5 million crimes against women have been reported in India over the last decade. Reported cases of crime against women increased 83 per cent from 185,312 in 2007 to 338,954 in 2016, data from NCRB showed. When it comes to crimes against women, almost all categories have seen an uptick in recent years - with thousands of cases of dowry harassment, assault, kidnapping, and rape registered in the last year alone. A report by NCRB published in 2017 indicated that the majority of cases categorised as crimes against women were reported under ‘cruelty by husband or his relatives’ (32.6 per cent), followed by ‘assault on woman with intent to outrage her modesty’ (25 per cent), ‘kidnapping and abduction of woman’ (19 per cent) and ‘rape’ (11.5 per cent). A report by Thomson Reuters Foundation earlier this year tagged India as the world’s most dangerous place for women, citing declining cultural practices, sexual violence, and trafficking. When the same poll was conducted in 2011, India ranked fourth after Afghanistan, Congo, and Pakistan. Conviction Rate lowest Considering the social stigma attached to it or the ordeal a victim goes through , it’s highly likely that the number of crimes being reported as well as the number of suspects being convicted are rather low. A report by the Human Rights Watch from last year presented that the victims and survivors of sexual assault in India have to go through callous treatment from the police, doctors, and even lawyers throughout the process of holding culprits responsible. The year 2016 saw the lowest conviction rate (18.9 per cent) – out of the total number of crime cases registered only 18.9 per cent of them ended in conviction of the culprit for crimes against women. The two cases, the after math and the new law The two sickening recent crimes – in Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir in January this year and in Unnao in Uttar Pradesh last year – put a big question mark on security and public institutions. The criminal laws of the past are not congruent with what is going on in today’s time. In his 47th "Mann Ki Baat" programme PM Modi had said, "No civilised society can tolerate any kind of injustice towards women. The nation will not tolerate those committing rapes. With this point in view, Parliament has made a provision of strictest punishment by passing the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill." The new bill, which was passed by the Parliament earlier in August this year, was replaced by the Criminal Law Ordinance, promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind on April 22. In light of the increased number of rape incidents in the country, a set of new measures to amend the Protection of Child from Sexual Offence Act (POCSO) were approved. The new bill entails that criminals will face minimum of 20 years of jail which may go up to life in prison or death penalty, for the rape of a girl under 12 years of age. While perpetrators involved in the gang-rape of a girl below 12 years would get life imprisonment or death penalty. PM Modi said that the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act will act as a deterrent against rape and also play an effective role in curbing crimes against women and young girls. To what extent will these laws be effective? Since the new law has been passed, numerous rape cases have been registered. A teenager was raped in Delhi by two men, a 14-year-old girl was raped and killed in Thane, a woman was abducted and gang-raped by four men and dumped on a highway in Assam, a teen attempted suicide in Gujarat after being raped by relatives – and these are just some cases “registered” in the last week of August. The chilling Delhi gang-rape five years ago brought heightened awareness over sexual crimes against women, which tapered down within few months. Similar was the case with the Kathua and Unnao incident - much outcry was made over justice for women after the incidents, but that did not work as a deterrent. Although, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 (Nirbhaya Act) was enacted after the Delhi gang-rape, but this has not had much impact. There has not been any development in an ideal crime control system simply because more emphasis is given to proof rather than the truth. The root cause lies in the patriarchal mentalities. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Will the new criminal law curb crimes against women in India?

The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined urgent hearing on a plea by the Tamil Nadu government challenging the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) order allowing mining major Vedanta group access to the administrative unit inside its closed Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin in the state.

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said it will hear the plea next week.

The state government had on August 14 moved the apex court against the NGT order.

The NGT had on August 9 allowed Vedanta to enter the administrative unit inside its Sterlite copper plant, observing that no environmental damage would be caused by allowing access to the administrative section.

The tribunal, however, had said the plant would remain closed and the company would not have access to its production unit and directed the district magistrate to ensure this.

The Tamil Nadu government had on May 28 ordered the state pollution control board to seal and "permanently" close the mining group's copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns.

Sterlite's factory had made headlines in March 2013 when a gas leak led to the death of one person and injuries to several others, after which then chief minister J Jayalalithaa had ordered its closure.

The company had then appealed to the NGT, which overturned the government order. The state then moved the Supreme Court against it and the case is still pending.

The Supreme Court had then ordered the company to pay Rs 100 crore as compensation for polluting the environment.

After Sterlite announced its plans to expand the Tuticorin plant, locals started fresh stir that continued for over 100 days, culminating in the May 22 police firing on protestors that claimed 13 lives and left scores injured.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu government had on May 28 ordered the state pollution control board to seal and 'permanently' close the mining group's copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns

The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined urgent hearing on a plea by the Tamil Nadu government challenging the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) order allowing mining major Vedanta group access to the administrative unit inside its closed Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin in the state. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said it will hear the plea next week. The state government had on August 14 moved the apex court against the NGT order. The NGT had on August 9 allowed Vedanta to enter the administrative unit inside its Sterlite copper plant, observing that no environmental damage would be caused by allowing access to the administrative section. The tribunal, however, had said the plant would remain closed and the company would not have access to its production unit and directed the district magistrate to ensure this. The Tamil Nadu government had on May 28 ordered the state pollution control board to seal and "permanently" close the mining group's copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns. Sterlite's factory had made headlines in March 2013 when a gas leak led to the death of one person and injuries to several others, after which then chief minister J Jayalalithaa had ordered its closure. The company had then appealed to the NGT, which overturned the government order. The state then moved the Supreme Court against it and the case is still pending. The Supreme Court had then ordered the company to pay Rs 100 crore as compensation for polluting the environment. After Sterlite announced its plans to expand the Tuticorin plant, locals started fresh stir that continued for over 100 days, culminating in the May 22 police firing on protestors that claimed 13 lives and left scores injured.

SC says no to urgent hearing on plea against allowing Vedanta access to admin unit of Tuticorin plant

Former Calcutta High Court judge Justice CS Karnan has written another letter.&nbsp;

This time he's written to the Registrar General of the Supreme Court saying, "I have passed a judicial order against 8 convicted accused/ anti-social element/ terrorist judges, namely Mr Justice JS Kheher, Mr Justice Dipak Misra, Mr Justice Chemaleshwar, Mr Justice Rajan Gogoi, Mr Justice Madan Lokur, Mr Justice Pinak Chandra Ghose, Mr Justice Kurien Joseph, Mrs Justice R Bhanumati."

"Now I am taking necessary accelerated steps to broach my case before the Hon'ble International Court of Justice for relief, since the matter is still hanging fire and unable to settle in India," Karnan adds in his letter.&nbsp;

<img alt="karnan letter.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1152" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/karnan%20letter.png" width="864" />

<img alt="karnan letter2.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1152" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/karnan%20letter2.png" width="864" />

(Justice Karnan's letter to the Registrar General of the Supreme Court.)

The Supreme Court had found Justice Karnan guilty of contempt of court last year after he accused 20 sitting judges of being corrupt and wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking him to initiate a probe.&nbsp;

A seven-judge bench of the apex court had on May 9 last year passed an order sentencing Karnan to six months in jail.&nbsp;

This happened after 12 advocates on record refused to represent him. Senior lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara finally agreed to represent Karnan in the Supreme Court to recall the arrest order.&nbsp;

Earlier, in an interview to WION, Justice Karnan was asked whether he was ready to tender an unconditional apology to the apex court. “No, no, no, no... They are contemnors. Yesterday (April 1, 2017), I passed judicial order and I declared that all seven judges are contemnors... all seven judges are accused under the SC/ST Atrocities Act... further directed the Registrar General not to allot any administrative or judicial work &nbsp;to the honorable judges because they are accused under the SC/ST Atrocities Act.”&nbsp;

Karnan had been slammed from all sides for his letter to the prime minister.&nbsp;

Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani called his behaviour "lunatic", adding that Karnan "must meet his fate".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Former attorney general Mukul Rohatgi asked the Supreme Court to initiate contempt of court proceedings for his “scurrilous” letters against sitting and retired judges of the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

One will have to wait and see what lies in store for Justice Karnan after this latest letter reaches the judges of India's highest court.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court had found Justice Karnan guilty of contempt of court last year after he accused 20 sitting judges of being corrupt and wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking him to initiate a probe.

Former Calcutta High Court judge Justice CS Karnan has written another letter. This time he's written to the Registrar General of the Supreme Court saying, "I have passed a judicial order against 8 convicted accused/ anti-social element/ terrorist judges, namely Mr Justice JS Kheher, Mr Justice Dipak Misra, Mr Justice Chemaleshwar, Mr Justice Rajan Gogoi, Mr Justice Madan Lokur, Mr Justice Pinak Chandra Ghose, Mr Justice Kurien Joseph, Mrs Justice R Bhanumati." "Now I am taking necessary accelerated steps to broach my case before the Hon'ble International Court of Justice for relief, since the matter is still hanging fire and unable to settle in India," Karnan adds in his letter. (Justice Karnan's letter to the Registrar General of the Supreme Court.) The Supreme Court had found Justice Karnan guilty of contempt of court last year after he accused 20 sitting judges of being corrupt and wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking him to initiate a probe. A seven-judge bench of the apex court had on May 9 last year passed an order sentencing Karnan to six months in jail. This happened after 12 advocates on record refused to represent him. Senior lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara finally agreed to represent Karnan in the Supreme Court to recall the arrest order. Earlier, in an interview to WION, Justice Karnan was asked whether he was ready to tender an unconditional apology to the apex court. “No, no, no, no... They are contemnors. Yesterday (April 1, 2017), I passed judicial order and I declared that all seven judges are contemnors... all seven judges are accused under the SC/ST Atrocities Act... further directed the Registrar General not to allot any administrative or judicial work to the honorable judges because they are accused under the SC/ST Atrocities Act.” Karnan had been slammed from all sides for his letter to the prime minister. Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani called his behaviour "lunatic", adding that Karnan "must meet his fate". Former attorney general Mukul Rohatgi asked the Supreme Court to initiate contempt of court proceedings for his “scurrilous” letters against sitting and retired judges of the Supreme Court. One will have to wait and see what lies in store for Justice Karnan after this latest letter reaches the judges of India's highest court.

Ex-Calcutta HC judge Karnan writes letter to SC about 'anti-social element, terrorist' judges

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to entertain the petition filed by Lt Col Srikant Prasad Purohit seeking a SIT probe in the Malegaon Blast case.&nbsp;

The Apex Court also asked him to approach the trial court.

Earlier in the day the Bombay High Court had refused to put stay on the charges framed on him by the lower court. The court also added that the matter pertaining to the validity of sanction for prosecution against Lt Col Purohit under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is to be decided by trial court.

The Bar and Bench report said that the apex court did not interfere in the case because it did not consider it appropriate.

The trial court in Mumbai had rejected his plea on August 30 where he had sought the deferring of the framing of charges against him until Bombay High Court decides his application.

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Malegaon Blast: Bombay HC refuses to stay framing of charges by lower court against Lt Col Purohit&others. HC also said that matter pertaining to validity of sanction for prosecution against Lt Col Purohit under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is to be decided by trial court <a href="https://t.co/D9ahmjASBS">pic.twitter.com/D9ahmjASBS</a>
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Supreme Court refuses to entertain the petition filed by Lt Col Srikant Prasad Purohit seeking a SIT probe in the Malegaon Blast case. The Apex Court asked him to approach the trial court.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036871019535978497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Col Purohit has spent close to nine years in jail. &nbsp;He was given bail by the Supreme Court in August 2017.&nbsp;

Purohit is accused of being involved in the 2006 Malegaon blasts.&nbsp;

Purohit is accused of pilfering the explosive used in the blasts from the army.&nbsp;

He is also accused of being a member of the right-wing Hindu group Abhinav Bharat.&nbsp;

Col Purohit has spent close to nine years in jail. He was given bail by the Supreme Court in August 2017.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to entertain the petition filed by Lt Col Srikant Prasad Purohit seeking a SIT probe in the Malegaon Blast case. The Apex Court also asked him to approach the trial court. Earlier in the day the Bombay High Court had refused to put stay on the charges framed on him by the lower court. The court also added that the matter pertaining to the validity of sanction for prosecution against Lt Col Purohit under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is to be decided by trial court. The Bar and Bench report said that the apex court did not interfere in the case because it did not consider it appropriate. The trial court in Mumbai had rejected his plea on August 30 where he had sought the deferring of the framing of charges against him until Bombay High Court decides his application. Malegaon Blast: Bombay HC refuses to stay framing of charges by lower court against Lt Col Purohit&others. HC also said that matter pertaining to validity of sanction for prosecution against Lt Col Purohit under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is to be decided by trial court pic.twitter.com/D9ahmjASBS — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × Supreme Court refuses to entertain the petition filed by Lt Col Srikant Prasad Purohit seeking a SIT probe in the Malegaon Blast case. The Apex Court asked him to approach the trial court. — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × Col Purohit has spent close to nine years in jail. He was given bail by the Supreme Court in August 2017. Purohit is accused of being involved in the 2006 Malegaon blasts. Purohit is accused of pilfering the explosive used in the blasts from the army. He is also accused of being a member of the right-wing Hindu group Abhinav Bharat.

Malegaon case: Supreme Court rejects Col Srikant Purohit's petition for SIT probe

A 28-year-old woman studying in Canada was arrested in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu on Monday and remanded in judicial custody for 15 days after she allegedly shouted “fascist BJP government down, down”. Lois Sofia did her alleged shouting on board a flight in the presence of Tamil Nadu BJP president Tamilisai Soundararajan who filed a complaint. 
&nbsp; 
Lois Sofia was on her way home from Canada. She was with her parents who had joined her in Chennai for the flight home to Tuticorin. The alleged incident took place after the flight landed at Tuticorin airport.

A senior police officer said Sofia was taken into custody after Tamilisai filed a complaint with the airport police.

Lois's lawyer E Athisayakumar said she had been arrested and remanded in judicial custody for 15 days. She was later taken to hospital following complaints of a stomach ache.

Sofia’s father, Dr A A Sami, a retired government doctor, said the incident took place when the flight landed at Tuticorin.&nbsp;

Sami claimed they were surrounded by the politician's followers and that they had to be locked in a room for their protection. Sami claimed his daughter said "fascist government down down" only once.&nbsp;

Tamilisai Soundararajan has since said she was scared for her life when Lois alleged started shouting, which is why she complained to the airport police.&nbsp;

Video later emerged of&nbsp;Soundararajan shouting at Lois, asking her: "How can you shout like that?"&nbsp;

The blowback on social media was swift with scores of people criticising the heavyhanded use of the law:&nbsp;

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Sofia Lois calls BJP 'fascist'. So Tamil Nadu police arrests her to prove her right.
— Charu Sankaran (@Edit_Err) <a href="https://twitter.com/Edit_Err/status/1036702474126745600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Lois Sofia, the student who shouted 'fascist BJP government down, down' In front of a BJP minister at Tuticorin airport, has been booked on the following charges: 
 
Section 505 (statements conducting to public mischief) 
 
Section 290 (public nuisance) 
 
Section 75 (TNCPA)
— fun at parties (no, really) (@schmaltzdisney) <a href="https://twitter.com/schmaltzdisney/status/1036807579412754432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This "beautiful" lady <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTamilisaiBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTamilisaiBJP</a> arguing with a lady Lois Sofia a student who shouted "fascist BJP Govt down down" arrested by Police on fascist M R S <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTamilisaiBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTamilisaiBJP</a>'s complaint at Tuticorin airport & sent to judicial custody for 15 days! <a href="https://t.co/htH6yT4pEk">pic.twitter.com/htH6yT4pEk</a>
— LATPOT BABA (@latpot10) <a href="https://twitter.com/latpot10/status/1036820449588432898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Arguing with BJP's Dr.Tamilisai Soundararajan is now a Crime under Indian Penal Code. Lois Sofia, a resident of Tuticorin and now studying Mathematics in Canada, appears to have had an argument with Dr. Soundarajan. Now, she is in Pudukottai Women's Police Station in Tuticorin.
— பாசிசபாஜகஆட்சிஒழிக (@Alex_1990_Pandi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alex_1990_Pandi/status/1036582966275858433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Lois was on Tuesday released on bail.&nbsp;

Lois Sofia, a researcher in Canada, did her alleged shouting on board a flight in the presence of Tamil Nadu BJP president Tamilisai Soundararajan.

A 28-year-old woman studying in Canada was arrested in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu on Monday and remanded in judicial custody for 15 days after she allegedly shouted “fascist BJP government down, down”. Lois Sofia did her alleged shouting on board a flight in the presence of Tamil Nadu BJP president Tamilisai Soundararajan who filed a complaint. Lois Sofia was on her way home from Canada. She was with her parents who had joined her in Chennai for the flight home to Tuticorin. The alleged incident took place after the flight landed at Tuticorin airport. A senior police officer said Sofia was taken into custody after Tamilisai filed a complaint with the airport police. Lois's lawyer E Athisayakumar said she had been arrested and remanded in judicial custody for 15 days. She was later taken to hospital following complaints of a stomach ache. Sofia’s father, Dr A A Sami, a retired government doctor, said the incident took place when the flight landed at Tuticorin. Sami claimed they were surrounded by the politician's followers and that they had to be locked in a room for their protection. Sami claimed his daughter said "fascist government down down" only once. Tamilisai Soundararajan has since said she was scared for her life when Lois alleged started shouting, which is why she complained to the airport police. Video later emerged of Soundararajan shouting at Lois, asking her: "How can you shout like that?" The blowback on social media was swift with scores of people criticising the heavyhanded use of the law: Sofia Lois calls BJP 'fascist'. So Tamil Nadu police arrests her to prove her right. — Charu Sankaran (@Edit_Err) September 3, 2018 × Lois Sofia, the student who shouted 'fascist BJP government down, down' In front of a BJP minister at Tuticorin airport, has been booked on the following charges: Section 505 (statements conducting to public mischief) Section 290 (public nuisance) Section 75 (TNCPA) — fun at parties (no, really) (@schmaltzdisney) September 4, 2018 × This "beautiful" lady @BJP4India President @DrTamilisaiBJP arguing with a lady Lois Sofia a student who shouted "fascist BJP Govt down down" arrested by Police on fascist M R S @DrTamilisaiBJP's complaint at Tuticorin airport & sent to judicial custody for 15 days! pic.twitter.com/htH6yT4pEk — LATPOT BABA (@latpot10) September 4, 2018 × Arguing with BJP's Dr.Tamilisai Soundararajan is now a Crime under Indian Penal Code. Lois Sofia, a resident of Tuticorin and now studying Mathematics in Canada, appears to have had an argument with Dr. Soundarajan. Now, she is in Pudukottai Women's Police Station in Tuticorin. — பாசிசபாஜகஆட்சிஒழிக (@Alex_1990_Pandi) September 3, 2018 × Lois was on Tuesday released on bail.

Watch: Tamil Nadu woman arrested for allegedly shouting 'fascist BJP government down, down' gets bail

While fuel prices continue to rise in the country, BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli said Tuesday that states could benefit from the rise in prices.

Kohli added that the reason&nbsp;for the rise in petroleum prices was well known and&nbsp;claimed that external factors were responsible.

He further said that the&nbsp;rise in petroleum prices was a good opportunity for state governments which could benefit from charging several taxes.

"Reasons for hike in petroleum prices well known. There is not only fact of strengthening of dollar and weakening of rupee, external factors too. This is good opportunity that when prices go up states charge VAT, Sales Tax and their ad valorum, in effect when prices goes up states benefit," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"What excise comes to the Centre that is 42% as per finance commission, also goes back to states and the rest is used for citizens. If states think about it, this is a good time to bring a discussion about the inclusion of petroleum products in GST," he added.&nbsp;

Kohli issued a clarification later over his statements saying that he never said that the rise in petrol prices was a good news.&nbsp;

He also added, "I said it's good opportunity to start a discussion about including petroleum&nbsp;products in GST".

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Sections of media are running truncated version of my statement &incorrectly attributing as if I have said that it is good news that petrol prices rising. I never said it. I said it's good opportunity to start discussion about including petroleum products in GST: Nalin Kohli,BJP <a href="https://t.co/C4yluVIkV2">pic.twitter.com/C4yluVIkV2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036875324934377472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The prices of Petrol and diesel rose further to Rs 79.31 and Rs 71.34 per litre respectively in the national capital on Tuesday.

Fuel prices&nbsp;also increased in Mumbai with prices of petrol reaching to Rs 86.72 per litre&nbsp;and that of diesel to Rs 75.74&nbsp;for diesel.

Petrol and diesel prices have escalated by almost a rupee per litre within a fortnight.

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Reasons for hike in petroleum prices well known.There's not only fact of strenthening of dollar&weaking of rupee, external factors too.This is good opportunity that when prices go up states charge VAT,Sales Tax&their ad velorum,in effect when prices goes up states benefit:N Kohli <a href="https://t.co/hFs12e2D5h">pic.twitter.com/hFs12e2D5h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036861847461224448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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What excise comes to the Centre i.e 42% as per finance commission, also goes back to states and the rest is used for citizens. If states think about it, this is a good time to bring a discussion about the inclusion of petroleum products in GST: Nalin Kohli, BJP
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036861850850222081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had also blamed the "external factors" for the rise in domestic prices of petrol and diesel on Sunday.

Pradhan said that the factors responsible for the drop in production of crude oil have resulted in the rise of fuel prices in the country.

"I would like to mention two points, and both these subjects are external. OPEC (Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) had promised that it will raise production by one million barrels per day, which was not raised. Apart from that, crises in countries like Venezuela and Iran are increasing. There is a pressure on oil prices due to a decrease in production. Secondly, global currencies have weakened against the US dollar," he said.

He also said that the increase in the prices was temporary.

&nbsp;

'This is good opportunity that when prices go up states charge VAT, Sales Tax and their ad valorum, in effect when prices goes up states benefit,' Kohli said.

While fuel prices continue to rise in the country, BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli said Tuesday that states could benefit from the rise in prices. Kohli added that the reason for the rise in petroleum prices was well known and claimed that external factors were responsible. He further said that the rise in petroleum prices was a good opportunity for state governments which could benefit from charging several taxes. "Reasons for hike in petroleum prices well known. There is not only fact of strengthening of dollar and weakening of rupee, external factors too. This is good opportunity that when prices go up states charge VAT, Sales Tax and their ad valorum, in effect when prices goes up states benefit," Kohli said. "What excise comes to the Centre that is 42% as per finance commission, also goes back to states and the rest is used for citizens. If states think about it, this is a good time to bring a discussion about the inclusion of petroleum products in GST," he added. Kohli issued a clarification later over his statements saying that he never said that the rise in petrol prices was a good news. He also added, "I said it's good opportunity to start a discussion about including petroleum products in GST". Sections of media are running truncated version of my statement &incorrectly attributing as if I have said that it is good news that petrol prices rising. I never said it. I said it's good opportunity to start discussion about including petroleum products in GST: Nalin Kohli,BJP pic.twitter.com/C4yluVIkV2 — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × The prices of Petrol and diesel rose further to Rs 79.31 and Rs 71.34 per litre respectively in the national capital on Tuesday. Fuel prices also increased in Mumbai with prices of petrol reaching to Rs 86.72 per litre and that of diesel to Rs 75.74 for diesel. Petrol and diesel prices have escalated by almost a rupee per litre within a fortnight. Reasons for hike in petroleum prices well known.There's not only fact of strenthening of dollar&weaking of rupee, external factors too.This is good opportunity that when prices go up states charge VAT,Sales Tax&their ad velorum,in effect when prices goes up states benefit:N Kohli pic.twitter.com/hFs12e2D5h — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × What excise comes to the Centre i.e 42% as per finance commission, also goes back to states and the rest is used for citizens. If states think about it, this is a good time to bring a discussion about the inclusion of petroleum products in GST: Nalin Kohli, BJP — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had also blamed the "external factors" for the rise in domestic prices of petrol and diesel on Sunday. Pradhan said that the factors responsible for the drop in production of crude oil have resulted in the rise of fuel prices in the country. "I would like to mention two points, and both these subjects are external. OPEC (Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) had promised that it will raise production by one million barrels per day, which was not raised. Apart from that, crises in countries like Venezuela and Iran are increasing. There is a pressure on oil prices due to a decrease in production. Secondly, global currencies have weakened against the US dollar," he said. He also said that the increase in the prices was temporary.

Did not say fuel price rise good for states, says BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli

US Defence Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will arrive in India on Wednesday, ANI news agency said.

The news agency added that the two will hold meetings with Defence Minister Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on September 6.

The meeting is scheduled ahead of the 2+2 meet&nbsp;between India and US.

The first edition of the much-awaited 2+2 dialogue on strategic affairs between the US and India will take place in Delhi on September 6 during which a range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interests will be discussed.

Under the new framework finalised last year, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will hold talks with Secretary of State Mike R Pompeo and Secretary of Defence James Mattis from the US.

The 2+2 meeting is regarded as the highest political engagement between India and US this year.

The two countries may discuss issues relating to terrorism, designation of International terrorist organisations and individual terrorists, sharing of information, cooperation in FATF.

The meeting may also hold discussions on the listing of more terror organisations as a designated terrorist group.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The meeting is scheduled ahead of the 2+2 meeting between India and US.

US Defence Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will arrive in India on Wednesday, ANI news agency said. The news agency added that the two will hold meetings with Defence Minister Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on September 6. The meeting is scheduled ahead of the 2+2 meet between India and US. The first edition of the much-awaited 2+2 dialogue on strategic affairs between the US and India will take place in Delhi on September 6 during which a range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interests will be discussed. Under the new framework finalised last year, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will hold talks with Secretary of State Mike R Pompeo and Secretary of Defence James Mattis from the US. The 2+2 meeting is regarded as the highest political engagement between India and US this year. The two countries may discuss issues relating to terrorism, designation of International terrorist organisations and individual terrorists, sharing of information, cooperation in FATF. The meeting may also hold discussions on the listing of more terror organisations as a designated terrorist group. (With inputs from Agencies)

US Defence Secretary James Mattis, Secy of State Mike Pompeo to arrive in India tomorrow

Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha has said people pay less for aifare today than they do for an autorickshaw.&nbsp;

"Today airfare is less than that of an autorickshaw. You'll ask how is that possible?" Sinha asked.&nbsp;

"When two people take an autorickshaw, they pay fare of Rs 10. Which means they're charged Rs 5 per km but when you go by air you are charged Rs 4 per km," Sinha said.&nbsp;

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Today airfare is less than that of an auto-rickshaw. You'll ask how is that possible? When two people take an auto-rickshaw they pay fare of Rs 10 which means they're charged Rs 5/km but when you go by air you are charged Rs 4/km: Jayant Sinha, MoS Civil Aviation (03.09.2018) <a href="https://t.co/orbwOvdDLJ">pic.twitter.com/orbwOvdDLJ</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1036808114803236864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> MoS Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha clarifies,"So on a per km basis our air fare is among lowest in the world. I am not implying you use planes for short distances, that's not the point of the comparison, it's just to be able to demonstrate how affordable our air fares are." <a href="https://t.co/ofH7AfBwep">pic.twitter.com/ofH7AfBwep</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036880222455382017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sinha had said the same thing in February too.&nbsp;

He added then that more people were opting for air travel because the country had the cheapest fares in the world.

He has also said that the number of air passengers in the country is higher than railway passengers travelling in AC coaches.

This is not the first time Sinha has made the claim. He has also said that the number of air passengers in the country is higher than railway passengers travelling in AC coaches.

Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha has said people pay less for aifare today than they do for an autorickshaw. "Today airfare is less than that of an autorickshaw. You'll ask how is that possible?" Sinha asked. "When two people take an autorickshaw, they pay fare of Rs 10. Which means they're charged Rs 5 per km but when you go by air you are charged Rs 4 per km," Sinha said. Today airfare is less than that of an auto-rickshaw. You'll ask how is that possible? When two people take an auto-rickshaw they pay fare of Rs 10 which means they're charged Rs 5/km but when you go by air you are charged Rs 4/km: Jayant Sinha, MoS Civil Aviation (03.09.2018) pic.twitter.com/orbwOvdDLJ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 4, 2018 × #WATCH MoS Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha clarifies,"So on a per km basis our air fare is among lowest in the world. I am not implying you use planes for short distances, that's not the point of the comparison, it's just to be able to demonstrate how affordable our air fares are." pic.twitter.com/ofH7AfBwep — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2018 × Sinha had said the same thing in February too. He added then that more people were opting for air travel because the country had the cheapest fares in the world. He has also said that the number of air passengers in the country is higher than railway passengers travelling in AC coaches.

Travelling by air cheaper than autorickshaw: MoS Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha

The&nbsp;country today is celebrating the annual Hindu festival "Janmashtami" to mark the birth of Lord Krishna.

Janmashtami which celebrates the birth of&nbsp;the&nbsp;eighth avatar of Vishnu falls on Ashtmi of the Krishna Paksha (eighth day of the moon) of Bhadrapad which falls in the month of August and September.

<img alt="janam3.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="659" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/janam3.JPG" width="945" />

The festival is celebrated&nbsp;by observing fast till midnight and worshipping Lord Krishna by singing devotional songs. However, Janmashtami or Gokulashtmi&nbsp;is celebrated in different forms all over the country.

Janmashtami holds greater significance in the northern city of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh which is considered the birthplace of Krishna.

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Mathura: Devotees celebrate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Janmashtami?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Janmashtami</a> at Lord Krishna's 'Janmabhoomi' temple <a href="https://t.co/Xt3ASQlt3w">pic.twitter.com/Xt3ASQlt3w</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1036439835295268864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In South India, the people celebrate the festival by decorating their floors with small footprints made of flour symbolizing Bal-Gopal (baby Krishna). They also offer Krishna fruits as "prasad".

In Maharashtra, Janmashtami is celebrated in the form of popular Dahi Handi festival. The celebration takes place by breaking "dahi handi" a pot full of curd hung in the air. People form chains and climb over each other to reach the height of the dahi handi. One of them then reaches the top to break the handi. The event symbolises stealing of butter by Krishna and his friends.

In Dwarka, Gujarat which is considered as the kingdom of Lord Krishna, people celebrate&nbsp;the festival of Krishna in his infant form.&nbsp;

<img alt="janam4.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="541" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/janam4.JPG" width="660" />

<img alt="janam2.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="673" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/janam2.JPG" width="961" />

Janamashtmi is also known as Krishna Janmashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtmi Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanati and Sree Jayanti.

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Delhi's ISKCON temple has been decorated on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Janamashtami?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Janamashtami</a>. <a href="https://t.co/B8jMlV6q4e">pic.twitter.com/B8jMlV6q4e</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036418622384680960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Moradabad: Visuals of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Janmashtami?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Janmashtami</a> celebration from Radha-Krishna temple. <a href="https://t.co/YpI1XHdfbb">pic.twitter.com/YpI1XHdfbb</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1036344448555409409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Janmashtami which celebrates the birth of the eighth avatar of Vishnu falls on Ashtmi of the Krishna Paksha (eighth day of the moon) of Bhadrapad which falls in the month of August and September.

The country today is celebrating the annual Hindu festival "Janmashtami" to mark the birth of Lord Krishna. Janmashtami which celebrates the birth of the eighth avatar of Vishnu falls on Ashtmi of the Krishna Paksha (eighth day of the moon) of Bhadrapad which falls in the month of August and September. The festival is celebrated by observing fast till midnight and worshipping Lord Krishna by singing devotional songs. However, Janmashtami or Gokulashtmi is celebrated in different forms all over the country. Janmashtami holds greater significance in the northern city of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh which is considered the birthplace of Krishna. Mathura: Devotees celebrate #Janmashtami at Lord Krishna's 'Janmabhoomi' temple pic.twitter.com/Xt3ASQlt3w — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 3, 2018 × In South India, the people celebrate the festival by decorating their floors with small footprints made of flour symbolizing Bal-Gopal (baby Krishna). They also offer Krishna fruits as "prasad". In Maharashtra, Janmashtami is celebrated in the form of popular Dahi Handi festival. The celebration takes place by breaking "dahi handi" a pot full of curd hung in the air. People form chains and climb over each other to reach the height of the dahi handi. One of them then reaches the top to break the handi. The event symbolises stealing of butter by Krishna and his friends. In Dwarka, Gujarat which is considered as the kingdom of Lord Krishna, people celebrate the festival of Krishna in his infant form. Janamashtmi is also known as Krishna Janmashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtmi Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanati and Sree Jayanti. Delhi's ISKCON temple has been decorated on the occasion of #Janamashtami. pic.twitter.com/B8jMlV6q4e — ANI (@ANI) September 3, 2018 × Moradabad: Visuals of #Janmashtami celebration from Radha-Krishna temple. pic.twitter.com/YpI1XHdfbb — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 2, 2018 ×

Janmashtami: How is the festival celebrated across India

Indian-origin Conservative party MP and former UK Cabinet minister Priti Patel is among 20 party rebels who are challenging British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit strategy with a 'Stand Up 4 Brexit' campaign.

The grassroots drive against any negotiations with the European Union (EU) that could lead to a so-called soft Brexit is being backed by another ex-minister Ian Duncan Smith and is expected to mount pressure on May to ditch her Chequers plan, which is rejected by Eurosceptic MPs within her Conservative party.

Stand Up 4 Brexit supporters, who also include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson's key ally Tory MP Conor Burns, pledge to fight plans to keep the EU rules on British goods and free movement in terms of migration.

Patel, a leading pro-Brexit voice in the lead up to the referendum in favour of Britain's exit from the EU in June 2016, has previously called on the government to be "tougher" in its negotiations with Brussels.

The Stand Up 4 Brexit campaign is building momentum as Johnson, the poster boy for the pro-Brexit camp, launched a scathing attack on Theresa May's plans in his weekly newspaper column in 'The Daily Telegraph' on Monday, saying the approach agreed at Chequers "means disaster" for Britain.

Johnson, who had resigned as government minister in July in protest at the deal agreed by the Cabinet at Chequers&nbsp;the British Prime Minister's country residence likened the Brexit negotiations to a wrestling match, in which an EU "victory" was inevitable... "with the UK lying flat on the canvas and 12 stars circling symbolically over our semi-conscious head".

Johnson said negotiations based on the Chequers plan had so far seen the EU take "every important trick", adding, "The UK has agreed to hand over GBP 40 billion of taxpayers' money for two-thirds of diddly squat [nothing]."

The so-called Chequers plan put forth by May would see the UK agreeing a "common rulebook" with the EU for trading in goods, in an attempt to maintain frictionless trade at the border.

Critics of the strategy argue this would leave the UK tied to the EU rules even after it formally leaves the economic bloc on March 29 next year, and prevent Britain from striking its own trade deals in years to come.

Johnson claims in his column that the UK had "gone into battle with the white flag fluttering over our leading tank" with such a plan.

Downing Street, however, shot down the criticism, with Theresa May's official spokesperson saying, "Boris Johnson resigned over Chequers. There's no new ideas in this article to respond to".

"What we need at this time is serious leadership with a serious plan and that's exactly what the country has with this prime minister and this Brexit plan. She is a serious Prime Minister and she has put forward serious proposals," the spokesperson added.

In her own column over the weekend, Theresa May wrote that she was "confident" a "good deal" could be reached on Brexit.

"Our White Paper proposals are a good deal for Britain. They will allow frictionless trade in goods and agricultural products, protecting the jobs that depend on just in time supply chains," she said.

"Unlike alternatives, they will not allow the break-up of our precious Union nor will they undermine the Belfast Agreement with a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland," she wrote.

Meanwhile, EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier made matters more difficult by criticising May's Chequers plan as marking an "end" to the European project.

He used an interview with German newspaper 'Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung' to rubbish the Chequers strategy for a future UK-EU relationship, saying he is "strongly opposed" to the proposals.

As the UK's parliamentary recess period of August comes to an end and the political parties in the country prepare for their annual party conferences this month, the battle lines around Brexit are expected to deepen further.

Even after the UK and the EU have reached some sort of an agreement over their future trading relationship, any agreed plan will then be tabled before MPs for a vote a process which will be accompanied with its own share of upheavals.&nbsp;

Stand Up 4 Brexit supporters, who also include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson's key ally Tory MP Conor Burns, pledge to fight plans to keep the EU rules on British goods and free movement in terms of migration.

Indian-origin Conservative party MP and former UK Cabinet minister Priti Patel is among 20 party rebels who are challenging British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit strategy with a 'Stand Up 4 Brexit' campaign. The grassroots drive against any negotiations with the European Union (EU) that could lead to a so-called soft Brexit is being backed by another ex-minister Ian Duncan Smith and is expected to mount pressure on May to ditch her Chequers plan, which is rejected by Eurosceptic MPs within her Conservative party. Stand Up 4 Brexit supporters, who also include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson's key ally Tory MP Conor Burns, pledge to fight plans to keep the EU rules on British goods and free movement in terms of migration. Patel, a leading pro-Brexit voice in the lead up to the referendum in favour of Britain's exit from the EU in June 2016, has previously called on the government to be "tougher" in its negotiations with Brussels. The Stand Up 4 Brexit campaign is building momentum as Johnson, the poster boy for the pro-Brexit camp, launched a scathing attack on Theresa May's plans in his weekly newspaper column in 'The Daily Telegraph' on Monday, saying the approach agreed at Chequers "means disaster" for Britain. Johnson, who had resigned as government minister in July in protest at the deal agreed by the Cabinet at Chequers the British Prime Minister's country residence likened the Brexit negotiations to a wrestling match, in which an EU "victory" was inevitable... "with the UK lying flat on the canvas and 12 stars circling symbolically over our semi-conscious head". Johnson said negotiations based on the Chequers plan had so far seen the EU take "every important trick", adding, "The UK has agreed to hand over GBP 40 billion of taxpayers' money for two-thirds of diddly squat [nothing]." The so-called Chequers plan put forth by May would see the UK agreeing a "common rulebook" with the EU for trading in goods, in an attempt to maintain frictionless trade at the border. Critics of the strategy argue this would leave the UK tied to the EU rules even after it formally leaves the economic bloc on March 29 next year, and prevent Britain from striking its own trade deals in years to come. Johnson claims in his column that the UK had "gone into battle with the white flag fluttering over our leading tank" with such a plan. Downing Street, however, shot down the criticism, with Theresa May's official spokesperson saying, "Boris Johnson resigned over Chequers. There's no new ideas in this article to respond to". "What we need at this time is serious leadership with a serious plan and that's exactly what the country has with this prime minister and this Brexit plan. She is a serious Prime Minister and she has put forward serious proposals," the spokesperson added. In her own column over the weekend, Theresa May wrote that she was "confident" a "good deal" could be reached on Brexit. "Our White Paper proposals are a good deal for Britain. They will allow frictionless trade in goods and agricultural products, protecting the jobs that depend on just in time supply chains," she said. "Unlike alternatives, they will not allow the break-up of our precious Union nor will they undermine the Belfast Agreement with a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland," she wrote. Meanwhile, EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier made matters more difficult by criticising May's Chequers plan as marking an "end" to the European project. He used an interview with German newspaper 'Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung' to rubbish the Chequers strategy for a future UK-EU relationship, saying he is "strongly opposed" to the proposals. As the UK's parliamentary recess period of August comes to an end and the political parties in the country prepare for their annual party conferences this month, the battle lines around Brexit are expected to deepen further. Even after the UK and the EU have reached some sort of an agreement over their future trading relationship, any agreed plan will then be tabled before MPs for a vote a process which will be accompanied with its own share of upheavals.

Pro-Brexit Indian-origin MP joins 'Stand Up 4 Brexit' campaign

India is allowing state refiners to import Iranian oil with Tehran arranging tankers and insurance after firms including the country's top shipper Shipping Corp of India (SCI) halted voyages to Iran due to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-halt-iran-oil-imports-under-us-pressure-reports-163189">US sanctions,</a> sources said.

New Delhi's attempt to keep<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indias-iranian-oil-imports-in-june-fall-as-sanctions-fears-bite-150712"> Iranian oil</a> flowing mirrors a step by China, where buyers are shifting nearly all their Iranian oil imports to vessels owned by National Iranian Tanker Co (NITC).

The moves by the two top buyers of Iranian crude indicate that the Islamic Republic may not be fully cut off from global oil markets from November when US sanctions against Tehran's petroleum sector are due to start.

President Donald Trump ordered the reimposition of economic curbs after withdrawing the United States from a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers. No one trading with Iran will do business with America, he said.

"We have the same situation (as most Western shippers) because there is no cover, so we cannot go (to Iran)," an SCI official told Reuters.

New Delhi turned to the NITC fleet after most insurers and reinsurers had begun winding down services for Iran, wanting to avoid falling foul of the sanctions given their large exposure to the United States.

SCI had a contract until August to import Iranian oil for Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), two sources familiar with the matter said.

Eurotankers, which had a deal with MRPL to import two Iranian oil cargoes every month, has also said it cannot undertake Iranian voyages from September, the sources said.

The sources spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not allowed to talk to the media about commercial deals.

"The shipping ministry has given refiners permission to buy Iranian oil on a CIF (cost, insurance and freight) basis," a government source said.

Under a CIF arrangement, Iran would provide shipping and insurance, enabling Indian refiners to continue purchases of the country's oil despite the non-availability of cover from Western insurers due to the restrictions imposed by Washington.

The move would benefit Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) and MRPL, which plan to lift Iranian cargoes during the rest of the fiscal year ending on March 31.

India wants to continue buying oil from OPEC member Iran as Tehran is offering almost free shipping and an extended credit period.

State refiners, which drove India's July imports of Iranian oil to a record 768,000 barrels per day, had planned to nearly double oil imports from Iran in 2018/19.

Unlike their private peers, India's state-run refiners need government permission to import oil on a delivered, or CIF, basis. Federal policy requires them to favour Indian insurers and shippers by buying only on a free on board (FOB) basis.

The permission for CIF purchases applies only to existing annual contracts with Iran, the government source said.

India, Iran's top oil client after China, will finalise its strategy on crude purchases from Tehran after a meeting with top US officials this week, a senior government official told Reuters last week.

SCI, Eurotankers, the shipping ministry, MRPL, IOC and BPCL did not respond to Reuters emails seeking comment.

The sources spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not allowed to talk to the media about commercial deals.

India is allowing state refiners to import Iranian oil with Tehran arranging tankers and insurance after firms including the country's top shipper Shipping Corp of India (SCI) halted voyages to Iran due to US sanctions, sources said. New Delhi's attempt to keep Iranian oil flowing mirrors a step by China, where buyers are shifting nearly all their Iranian oil imports to vessels owned by National Iranian Tanker Co (NITC). The moves by the two top buyers of Iranian crude indicate that the Islamic Republic may not be fully cut off from global oil markets from November when US sanctions against Tehran's petroleum sector are due to start. President Donald Trump ordered the reimposition of economic curbs after withdrawing the United States from a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers. No one trading with Iran will do business with America, he said. "We have the same situation (as most Western shippers) because there is no cover, so we cannot go (to Iran)," an SCI official told Reuters. New Delhi turned to the NITC fleet after most insurers and reinsurers had begun winding down services for Iran, wanting to avoid falling foul of the sanctions given their large exposure to the United States. SCI had a contract until August to import Iranian oil for Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), two sources familiar with the matter said. Eurotankers, which had a deal with MRPL to import two Iranian oil cargoes every month, has also said it cannot undertake Iranian voyages from September, the sources said. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not allowed to talk to the media about commercial deals. "The shipping ministry has given refiners permission to buy Iranian oil on a CIF (cost, insurance and freight) basis," a government source said. Under a CIF arrangement, Iran would provide shipping and insurance, enabling Indian refiners to continue purchases of the country's oil despite the non-availability of cover from Western insurers due to the restrictions imposed by Washington. The move would benefit Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) and MRPL, which plan to lift Iranian cargoes during the rest of the fiscal year ending on March 31. India wants to continue buying oil from OPEC member Iran as Tehran is offering almost free shipping and an extended credit period. State refiners, which drove India's July imports of Iranian oil to a record 768,000 barrels per day, had planned to nearly double oil imports from Iran in 2018/19. Unlike their private peers, India's state-run refiners need government permission to import oil on a delivered, or CIF, basis. Federal policy requires them to favour Indian insurers and shippers by buying only on a free on board (FOB) basis. The permission for CIF purchases applies only to existing annual contracts with Iran, the government source said. India, Iran's top oil client after China, will finalise its strategy on crude purchases from Tehran after a meeting with top US officials this week, a senior government official told Reuters last week. SCI, Eurotankers, the shipping ministry, MRPL, IOC and BPCL did not respond to Reuters emails seeking comment.

India defies US pressure to allow state refiners to use Iran tankers: Sources

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-to-up-govt-why-should-cm-yogi-adityanath-not-be-prosecuted-for-alleged-hate-speech-160422">Yogi Adityanath</a> has said there is no dearth of jobs in his state but that there is a dearth of talent amongst the youth, which is what is making them jobless.&nbsp;

News reports Monday quoted Adityanath as making his claim at a private function in Lucknow. Adityanath had been asked about his promise to offer government jobs to the unemployed youth who leave the state in search of jobs.&nbsp;

"The state has enough jobs, but no skilled candidate," news reports quoted Adityanath as saying.&nbsp;

Expectedly, Adityanath's statement has been panned across the board.&nbsp;

News reports Monday quoted senior Congress leader SJS Makker as saying Adityanath's statement was "an excuse for his government's failing to creat jobs for the youth".&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Suni Sajan said the chief minister's statement has made him a laughing stock. “Let him come out with the figures of how many government jobs his government has created," said Sajan.&nbsp;

NCP state chief Dr Ramesh Dixit meanwhile pointed out that there is no dearth of talent in Uttar Pradesh. He said that a large number of IAS and IPS officers hail from the state, as do several eminent jurists, doctors, and engineers. And that Uttar Pradesh has given eight prime ministers to the country.&nbsp;

“What more proof does he (Adityanath) want? There is no dearth of talent in the state but job scarcity forces them to migrate,” said Dr Dixit.&nbsp;

Adityanath had been asked about his promise to offer government jobs to the unemployed youth who leave his state in search of jobs. 'The state has enough jobs, but no skilled candidate,' Adityanath said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said there is no dearth of jobs in his state but that there is a dearth of talent amongst the youth, which is what is making them jobless. News reports Monday quoted Adityanath as making his claim at a private function in Lucknow. Adityanath had been asked about his promise to offer government jobs to the unemployed youth who leave the state in search of jobs. "The state has enough jobs, but no skilled candidate," news reports quoted Adityanath as saying. Expectedly, Adityanath's statement has been panned across the board. News reports Monday quoted senior Congress leader SJS Makker as saying Adityanath's statement was "an excuse for his government's failing to creat jobs for the youth". Samajwadi Party spokesperson Suni Sajan said the chief minister's statement has made him a laughing stock. “Let him come out with the figures of how many government jobs his government has created," said Sajan. NCP state chief Dr Ramesh Dixit meanwhile pointed out that there is no dearth of talent in Uttar Pradesh. He said that a large number of IAS and IPS officers hail from the state, as do several eminent jurists, doctors, and engineers. And that Uttar Pradesh has given eight prime ministers to the country. “What more proof does he (Adityanath) want? There is no dearth of talent in the state but job scarcity forces them to migrate,” said Dr Dixit.

No lack of jobs, dearth of talent in youth making them jobless: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

The highest kayaking competition in the world was held recently in Ladakh on the Indus river at a height of over 11,000 feet. The severe height and the breathing troubles that caused were only some of the problems the kayakers had to navigate.

The highest kayaking competition in the world

There was a time when the phrase “eye in the sky” meant a satellite. Orbiting a few thousand kilometres in the space, quietly connecting and watching us. Today those “eyes in the sky” could be just a few feet above your head. The buzz of a small drone over wedding parties is a familiar sound to many already. A wedding party without drone based photography is considered as lame today as a party without a dance floor a decade ago.

Drones come in several sizes and shapes with varying utility. They also have several names: Unmanned aircraft systems, remotely piloted aircraft system and unmanned aerial vehicles. These can fly at a few feet above your head to a few kilometres in the sky.&nbsp

From weaponised aircraft, the important shift now has been towards the use of drones by civilians. The recent policy announcement by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has laid down the law for usage of drones by civilians. In essence, the policy says that people are free to fly nano-drone (weighing 250 grams or less). Some restrictions include a flying height limit and staying away from sensitive installations. So if you are not near an airport or a government building, you can fly a nano-drone for recreation or as a service.

For larger and any other type, size or category of drones, an unmanned aircraft operator permit will be required. The operator will have to register the drone and follow strict rules to ensure air safety and social privacy. The remote pilots will need certified training and security clearance before they launch a drone in the sky. Then there are technical specifications and maintenance rules which require the drone operator to keep relevant authorities informed at all times.

These rules have been termed restrictive and suffocating by many but it seems that the government is erring on the side of caution. This is a tenable approach by the DGCA since virtually no one in the country can anticipate how drones would be deployed if there was unhindered freedom. At this early stage of drone usage in India, it is better to begin with a tightly controlled environment and then ease up the rules over time.

The need and usage of drones for civilian use is set to explode. Drones can be incredibly useful for town planning, utility mapping, road surveys, forest surveys, agriculture, traffic control and even crowd management at large gatherings. In a country where urban areas are congested and rural areas are poorly connected, drones can offer several critical services. Medical support, delivery of products, emergency relief are just a few possibilities. It is no exaggeration to say that drones will offer services that we can’t anticipate right now.

Demand for drone services will soar rapidly and we will witness the rise of new industry in the country. This industry will include manufacturers, importers, operators, training institutions and services companies. DGCA has begun to offer accreditation to training institutes already. The drone pilots will have to study basic radio telephony, flight planning procedures, basic aviation meteorology among other subjects. There are no figures available yet but the entire industry could spawn the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Investment in local manufacturing will also rise and the demand for trained professionals will increase. An important category of job creation will be for data scientists who apply the information gathered by drones for various objectives. Already, several drone based start-ups are offering services for government bodies and private corporations. From district commissioners to telecom tower companies, almost everyone can think of a use for a drone.

The official policy will offer the legal framework to enable the creation of a totally new eco-system. Already the industry has come together to create a Drone Federation of India. The next step for the government is to create an informed environment with adequate capability in relevant official agencies. A comprehensive effort will be required for training and sensitising local administration, judiciary and enforcement agencies. Soon the boundaries of the policy will be tested and the loopholes will be exploited (willingly or not). A young industry with enthusiastic operators will end up making mistakes and there will be a learning curve for all stakeholders.

However, to ensure the regulatory response is balanced, officialdom will have to be trained as well. Currently, the DGCA has to monitor and manage a few flying zones. With the rise of drones, every neighbourhood will be a flying zone. How will the government machinery monitor safe flying that does not violate the rules? How will the government ensure that permissions are granted rapidly without red tape strangling new ideas? These questions need to be dealt with.

India is witnessing the birth and rise of a new industry which has no historical precedence. The drone industry is new both to the world and India but the country needs to quickly seize its potential. Drones can offer tremendous information to a data poor country like India and after the IT and space industry, it is likely to have the most impact on the country. The government must see this industry as an economic catalyst to ensure that those “eyes in the sky” can help India see itself better.

(This article was first published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-drone-industry-takes-flight-2658435">original article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp 
&nbsp

The drone industry is new both to the world and India but the country needs to quickly seize its potential

There was a time when the phrase “eye in the sky” meant a satellite. Orbiting a few thousand kilometres in the space, quietly connecting and watching us. Today those “eyes in the sky” could be just a few feet above your head. The buzz of a small drone over wedding parties is a familiar sound to many already. A wedding party without drone based photography is considered as lame today as a party without a dance floor a decade ago. Drones come in several sizes and shapes with varying utility. They also have several names: Unmanned aircraft systems, remotely piloted aircraft system and unmanned aerial vehicles. These can fly at a few feet above your head to a few kilometres in the sky. From weaponised aircraft, the important shift now has been towards the use of drones by civilians. The recent policy announcement by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has laid down the law for usage of drones by civilians. In essence, the policy says that people are free to fly nano-drone (weighing 250 grams or less). Some restrictions include a flying height limit and staying away from sensitive installations. So if you are not near an airport or a government building, you can fly a nano-drone for recreation or as a service. For larger and any other type, size or category of drones, an unmanned aircraft operator permit will be required. The operator will have to register the drone and follow strict rules to ensure air safety and social privacy. The remote pilots will need certified training and security clearance before they launch a drone in the sky. Then there are technical specifications and maintenance rules which require the drone operator to keep relevant authorities informed at all times. These rules have been termed restrictive and suffocating by many but it seems that the government is erring on the side of caution. This is a tenable approach by the DGCA since virtually no one in the country can anticipate how drones would be deployed if there was unhindered freedom. At this early stage of drone usage in India, it is better to begin with a tightly controlled environment and then ease up the rules over time. The need and usage of drones for civilian use is set to explode. Drones can be incredibly useful for town planning, utility mapping, road surveys, forest surveys, agriculture, traffic control and even crowd management at large gatherings. In a country where urban areas are congested and rural areas are poorly connected, drones can offer several critical services. Medical support, delivery of products, emergency relief are just a few possibilities. It is no exaggeration to say that drones will offer services that we can’t anticipate right now. Demand for drone services will soar rapidly and we will witness the rise of new industry in the country. This industry will include manufacturers, importers, operators, training institutions and services companies. DGCA has begun to offer accreditation to training institutes already. The drone pilots will have to study basic radio telephony, flight planning procedures, basic aviation meteorology among other subjects. There are no figures available yet but the entire industry could spawn the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs. Investment in local manufacturing will also rise and the demand for trained professionals will increase. An important category of job creation will be for data scientists who apply the information gathered by drones for various objectives. Already, several drone based start-ups are offering services for government bodies and private corporations. From district commissioners to telecom tower companies, almost everyone can think of a use for a drone. The official policy will offer the legal framework to enable the creation of a totally new eco-system. Already the industry has come together to create a Drone Federation of India. The next step for the government is to create an informed environment with adequate capability in relevant official agencies. A comprehensive effort will be required for training and sensitising local administration, judiciary and enforcement agencies. Soon the boundaries of the policy will be tested and the loopholes will be exploited (willingly or not). A young industry with enthusiastic operators will end up making mistakes and there will be a learning curve for all stakeholders. However, to ensure the regulatory response is balanced, officialdom will have to be trained as well. Currently, the DGCA has to monitor and manage a few flying zones. With the rise of drones, every neighbourhood will be a flying zone. How will the government machinery monitor safe flying that does not violate the rules? How will the government ensure that permissions are granted rapidly without red tape strangling new ideas? These questions need to be dealt with. India is witnessing the birth and rise of a new industry which has no historical precedence. The drone industry is new both to the world and India but the country needs to quickly seize its potential. Drones can offer tremendous information to a data poor country like India and after the IT and space industry, it is likely to have the most impact on the country. The government must see this industry as an economic catalyst to ensure that those “eyes in the sky” can help India see itself better. (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: Drone Industry takes flight

Patidar leader Hardik Patel unveiled his "will" Sunday, the ninth day of his indefinite fast demanding reservation for the community and farm loan waiver.

The quota leader has divided his property among his parents, a sister, 14 youths killed during the quota agitation in 2015 and a' Panjrapole' (shelter for ill and old cows) near his village, a Patidar leader said.

"Hardik Patel has expressed his wish to donate his eyes in case of his death," Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) spokesperson Manoj Panara told reporters at Hardik's residence near Ahmedabad where he has been observing fast since August 25.

While leaders and representatives from various political parties, including the Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal, have visited the 25-year-old quota spearhead in the last nine days, the BJP government has so far not intervened.

Among the delegates who visited Hardik Patel today included former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) chief Jitan Ram Manjhi and Leader of Opposition in the Gujarat Assembly Paresh Dhanani of the Congress.

"Hardik Patel's health is deteriorating. He has not eaten food in the last nine days. He didn't drink water in the last 36 hours," Panara claimed.

He said Hardik Patel has prepared his will while "considering the doctor's advise regarding his deteriorating health".

"As per the will, Hardik has Rs 50,000 in his bank account, of which Rs 20,000 will go to his parents and the rest to a Panjrapole near his native village in Gujarat.

"Royalty from the book on his life 'Who Took My Job', which is currently under publication, as well as insurance money and the money collected after selling a car owned by him will be divided among his parents, his sister and the family members of the 14 Patidars who sacrificed their life during the agitation three years ago," Panara claimed.

He said 15 per cent of the total money will go to Hardik Patel's parents, another 15 per cent to his sister, and rest 70 per cent to the family members of the 14 Patidars.

A doctor from a government hospital who visited Hardik Patel on Sunday said he has advised the quota leader to get admitted to the hospital considering his health.

"We have advised him to be admitted to the hospital. His urine and blood pressure is normal, but Hardik has refused blood and urine tests," the doctor said.

Meanwhile, Manjhi told reporters that the government was not "sensitive" towards Hardik Patel's demand for reservation to members of the Patidar community.

"If the government was sensitive, it would have amended the Constitution to increase the reservation from 49.5 per cent to 70-80 per cent. It is there in some states. In Tamil Nadu, quota percentage is around 70 per cent, then why not here?" he asked.

Dhanani said the state government should listen to the protesters sensitively and address the issues concerning farmers in the state.

"The BJP government is trying to suppress and crush the voice of people with baton. The protesters are trying to bring up the issues of the farmers and weaker sections, but the government is instead trying to crush the protest," Dhanani alleged.

He alleged that while Hardik is trying to raise the issues of farmers, the state government has converted 18,000 villages into "fortresses" to prevent his supporters from reaching the venue of Hardik's fast.

"The government should adopt a positive stand and listen to what the protesters have to say," Dhanani said.

Meanwhile, some supporters of Hardik Patel alleged that they were baton-charged by the police when they approached his residence to meet him.

Hardik Patel had launched his hunger strike on the third anniversary of his mega pro-quota rally in Ahmedabad that had turned violent.

He is demanding a loan waiver for farmers and quota for Patidars in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class category.&nbsp 
&nbsp

'Hardik Patel has expressed his wish to donate his eyes in case of his death,' Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) spokesperson Manoj Panara told reporters at Hardik's residence near Ahmedabad where he has been observing fast since August 25

Patidar leader Hardik Patel unveiled his "will" Sunday, the ninth day of his indefinite fast demanding reservation for the community and farm loan waiver. The quota leader has divided his property among his parents, a sister, 14 youths killed during the quota agitation in 2015 and a' Panjrapole' (shelter for ill and old cows) near his village, a Patidar leader said. "Hardik Patel has expressed his wish to donate his eyes in case of his death," Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) spokesperson Manoj Panara told reporters at Hardik's residence near Ahmedabad where he has been observing fast since August 25. While leaders and representatives from various political parties, including the Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal, have visited the 25-year-old quota spearhead in the last nine days, the BJP government has so far not intervened. Among the delegates who visited Hardik Patel today included former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) chief Jitan Ram Manjhi and Leader of Opposition in the Gujarat Assembly Paresh Dhanani of the Congress. "Hardik Patel's health is deteriorating. He has not eaten food in the last nine days. He didn't drink water in the last 36 hours," Panara claimed. He said Hardik Patel has prepared his will while "considering the doctor's advise regarding his deteriorating health". "As per the will, Hardik has Rs 50,000 in his bank account, of which Rs 20,000 will go to his parents and the rest to a Panjrapole near his native village in Gujarat. "Royalty from the book on his life 'Who Took My Job', which is currently under publication, as well as insurance money and the money collected after selling a car owned by him will be divided among his parents, his sister and the family members of the 14 Patidars who sacrificed their life during the agitation three years ago," Panara claimed. He said 15 per cent of the total money will go to Hardik Patel's parents, another 15 per cent to his sister, and rest 70 per cent to the family members of the 14 Patidars. A doctor from a government hospital who visited Hardik Patel on Sunday said he has advised the quota leader to get admitted to the hospital considering his health. "We have advised him to be admitted to the hospital. His urine and blood pressure is normal, but Hardik has refused blood and urine tests," the doctor said. Meanwhile, Manjhi told reporters that the government was not "sensitive" towards Hardik Patel's demand for reservation to members of the Patidar community. "If the government was sensitive, it would have amended the Constitution to increase the reservation from 49.5 per cent to 70-80 per cent. It is there in some states. In Tamil Nadu, quota percentage is around 70 per cent, then why not here?" he asked. Dhanani said the state government should listen to the protesters sensitively and address the issues concerning farmers in the state. "The BJP government is trying to suppress and crush the voice of people with baton. The protesters are trying to bring up the issues of the farmers and weaker sections, but the government is instead trying to crush the protest," Dhanani alleged. He alleged that while Hardik is trying to raise the issues of farmers, the state government has converted 18,000 villages into "fortresses" to prevent his supporters from reaching the venue of Hardik's fast. "The government should adopt a positive stand and listen to what the protesters have to say," Dhanani said. Meanwhile, some supporters of Hardik Patel alleged that they were baton-charged by the police when they approached his residence to meet him. Hardik Patel had launched his hunger strike on the third anniversary of his mega pro-quota rally in Ahmedabad that had turned violent. He is demanding a loan waiver for farmers and quota for Patidars in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class category.

On ninth day of hunger strike, Hardik unveils his 'will'

The Supreme Court has slammed the Income Tax department for making "misleading statement" about pendency of an appeal while making it clear that the top court is not a "picnic place" and cannot be treated like this.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur slapped a cost of Rs. 10 lakh on the department and said it was "shocked" that the centre, through the Commissioner of Income Tax, has taken the matter "so casually".

The bench, also comprising Justices S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, also noted in its order that the plea was filed by the IT department after a delay of 596 days and "inadequate and unconvincing explanation" was given for the delay.

"Please do not do this. The Supreme Court is not a picnic place. Is this the way you treat the Supreme Court of India?" the bench told the counsel appearing for the department.

"You cannot treat the Supreme Court like this," the bench said.

The top court observed that in the petition filed by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Ghaziabad, the department has said that a similar matter filed in 2012 was pending in the court.

It, however, noted that the matter referred to as pending by the department was decided by the top court way back in September 2012.

"In other words, the petitioners have given a totally misleading statement before this court. We are shocked that the Union of India through the Commissioner of Income Tax has taken the matter so casually," the bench said in its order while dismissing the petition.

"As we have noted, there is an inadequate explanation of delay of 596 days in filing the petition and a misleading statement about pendency of a similar civil appeal," it said.

It said that the cost of Rs. 10 lakh be deposited with the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee within four weeks and the amount be utilised for juvenile justice issues.

The department had moved the top court challenging the August 29, 2016 judgement of the Allahabad High Court which had dismissed their appeal against an Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) order.

The plea before the high court pertained to different assessment years concerning the Hapur Pilkhuwa Development Authority (HPDA), a body constituted under the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973.

The HPDA had applied for grant of registration under the relevant provision of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which deals with procedure for registration.

The Commissioner of Income Tax, Ghaziabad, had rejected the application in June 2006 observing that HPDA was not an institution working for charitable purposes.

The HPDA had thereafter approached the ITAT which allowed its appeal against the order of Commissioner of Income Tax and said that it was entitled for registration.

The bench, also comprising Justices S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, also noted in its order that the plea was filed by the IT department after a delay of 596 days and 'inadequate and unconvincing explanation' was given for the delay.

The Supreme Court has slammed the Income Tax department for making "misleading statement" about pendency of an appeal while making it clear that the top court is not a "picnic place" and cannot be treated like this. A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur slapped a cost of Rs. 10 lakh on the department and said it was "shocked" that the centre, through the Commissioner of Income Tax, has taken the matter "so casually". The bench, also comprising Justices S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, also noted in its order that the plea was filed by the IT department after a delay of 596 days and "inadequate and unconvincing explanation" was given for the delay. "Please do not do this. The Supreme Court is not a picnic place. Is this the way you treat the Supreme Court of India?" the bench told the counsel appearing for the department. "You cannot treat the Supreme Court like this," the bench said. The top court observed that in the petition filed by the Commissioner of Income Tax, Ghaziabad, the department has said that a similar matter filed in 2012 was pending in the court. It, however, noted that the matter referred to as pending by the department was decided by the top court way back in September 2012. "In other words, the petitioners have given a totally misleading statement before this court. We are shocked that the Union of India through the Commissioner of Income Tax has taken the matter so casually," the bench said in its order while dismissing the petition. "As we have noted, there is an inadequate explanation of delay of 596 days in filing the petition and a misleading statement about pendency of a similar civil appeal," it said. It said that the cost of Rs. 10 lakh be deposited with the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee within four weeks and the amount be utilised for juvenile justice issues. The department had moved the top court challenging the August 29, 2016 judgement of the Allahabad High Court which had dismissed their appeal against an Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) order. The plea before the high court pertained to different assessment years concerning the Hapur Pilkhuwa Development Authority (HPDA), a body constituted under the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973. The HPDA had applied for grant of registration under the relevant provision of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which deals with procedure for registration. The Commissioner of Income Tax, Ghaziabad, had rejected the application in June 2006 observing that HPDA was not an institution working for charitable purposes. The HPDA had thereafter approached the ITAT which allowed its appeal against the order of Commissioner of Income Tax and said that it was entitled for registration.

Not a picnic place: Supreme court slams Income Tax department for misleading statement

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