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Public Interest Litigations (PILs) are important in ensuring protection of civil rights, but they should not be filed at the drop of a hat, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said Saturday.

Urging lawyers to play a much larger role than their conventional duties, the vice president asked them to make people aware of their rights and duties as well as remedies which are available to them.&nbsp;

In today's world, lawyers will have to undertake several roles in society and have to discharge several jobs directly or indirectly connected with law, he added.

"Let me make it clear. I am not a votary of filing of public interest litigations (PILs) at the fall of a hat. But PILs filed in the Supreme Court or High Court for enforcement of fundamental rights are important in ensuring civil rights.&nbsp;

"That would mean that the lawyers have to play a much larger role than the conventional roles assigned to them. They have to make the people aware of their rights and duties as well as remedies which are available to them when they are exploited," the vice president said.

He was addressing the gathering after presenting Tenth Law Teachers Day Awards at a function organized by Society of Indian Law Firms & Menon Institute of Legal Advocacy Training (SILF-MILT).

Attorney General of India K K Venugopal, his predecessor Mukul Rohatgi, Prof S Sivakumar, member, Law Commission, were present on the occasion.

Pointing out that new types of cases like anti-dumping and intellectual property violations need holistic knowledge of economics of pricing and the market conditions, among others, he said legal education has to be alive to these problems to address the changing roles of a legal practitioner.

He also emphasised the need to reform and impart quality legal education.

Referring to the scant attention paid to law of torts in India, he said it protects people who become victims of negligence by another party.&nbsp;

"In many developed countries like the US, it is an important branch of law. All of us are aware of how pharmaceutical and tobacco companies have to part with huge damages if negligence is proved in the court of law. May be the time has come for us to invoke such liabilities in the Indian context as well to protect the genuine interests of consumers," he said.&nbsp;

Urging lawyers to play a much larger role than their conventional duties, the vice president asked them to make people aware of their rights and duties as well as remedies which are available to them.

Public Interest Litigations (PILs) are important in ensuring protection of civil rights, but they should not be filed at the drop of a hat, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said Saturday. Urging lawyers to play a much larger role than their conventional duties, the vice president asked them to make people aware of their rights and duties as well as remedies which are available to them. In today's world, lawyers will have to undertake several roles in society and have to discharge several jobs directly or indirectly connected with law, he added. "Let me make it clear. I am not a votary of filing of public interest litigations (PILs) at the fall of a hat. But PILs filed in the Supreme Court or High Court for enforcement of fundamental rights are important in ensuring civil rights. "That would mean that the lawyers have to play a much larger role than the conventional roles assigned to them. They have to make the people aware of their rights and duties as well as remedies which are available to them when they are exploited," the vice president said. He was addressing the gathering after presenting Tenth Law Teachers Day Awards at a function organized by Society of Indian Law Firms & Menon Institute of Legal Advocacy Training (SILF-MILT). Attorney General of India K K Venugopal, his predecessor Mukul Rohatgi, Prof S Sivakumar, member, Law Commission, were present on the occasion. Pointing out that new types of cases like anti-dumping and intellectual property violations need holistic knowledge of economics of pricing and the market conditions, among others, he said legal education has to be alive to these problems to address the changing roles of a legal practitioner. He also emphasised the need to reform and impart quality legal education. Referring to the scant attention paid to law of torts in India, he said it protects people who become victims of negligence by another party. "In many developed countries like the US, it is an important branch of law. All of us are aware of how pharmaceutical and tobacco companies have to part with huge damages if negligence is proved in the court of law. May be the time has come for us to invoke such liabilities in the Indian context as well to protect the genuine interests of consumers," he said.

PILs important, but should not be filed at the drop of a hat: VP Venkaiah Naidu

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday accused the Congress of ignoring the state's interests during its tenure and said the party never pushed development.

Raje was speaking at a public meeting in Barmer district during her pre-poll tour 'Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra'.

She said Rajasthan lagged behind in development because the Congress never focussed on development during its 50-year rule.

The chief minister alleged that when the Congress was in power in Rajasthan, the party always highlighted the paucity of funds.

But, she added, "if the intention is good then work can be done".

Raje said her government renegotiated Barmer oil refinery project with HPCL because the conditions set by the former Congress government were not in the state's interest.&nbsp;

The work on the refinery started only after the BJP government came to power and brought down the state's financial burden, she said.

In another public meeting, Raje was shown black flags by some people who managed to reach the venue with the flags hidden in their pockets.

The accused were whisked away by the police.

Meanwhile, the Congress posed a question to Raje asking her whether she was proud of the devastation caused by floods in the Jodhpur division last year.

Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said several areas in the division were flooded last year.&nbsp;

He alleged that properties damaged in the floods have not yet been renovated and asked Raje if she was proud of this.

The Congress poses a new question to Raje every day as she proceeds on her yatra. She is currently in the Jodhpur division.

Raje was speaking at a public meeting in Barmer district during her pre-poll tour 'Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra'.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Saturday accused the Congress of ignoring the state's interests during its tenure and said the party never pushed development. Raje was speaking at a public meeting in Barmer district during her pre-poll tour 'Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra'. She said Rajasthan lagged behind in development because the Congress never focussed on development during its 50-year rule. The chief minister alleged that when the Congress was in power in Rajasthan, the party always highlighted the paucity of funds. But, she added, "if the intention is good then work can be done". Raje said her government renegotiated Barmer oil refinery project with HPCL because the conditions set by the former Congress government were not in the state's interest. The work on the refinery started only after the BJP government came to power and brought down the state's financial burden, she said. In another public meeting, Raje was shown black flags by some people who managed to reach the venue with the flags hidden in their pockets. The accused were whisked away by the police. Meanwhile, the Congress posed a question to Raje asking her whether she was proud of the devastation caused by floods in the Jodhpur division last year. Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said several areas in the division were flooded last year. He alleged that properties damaged in the floods have not yet been renovated and asked Raje if she was proud of this. The Congress poses a new question to Raje every day as she proceeds on her yatra. She is currently in the Jodhpur division.

Congress never focussed on Rajasthan's development during its tenure:  Vasundhara Raje

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inaugurated the 'water pilgrimage' on Ganga which is likely to be a big tourist attraction in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency.

Alaknanda, a 5-star luxury tourist cruise, embarked on its maiden trip in Varanasi on Sunday.

On board the cruise, tourists in Varanasi can watch 'Ganga aarti' at Dashshamedh ghat and 'Subha-e-Banaras' at Assi Ghat. A tour on the cruise is being termed as a form of 'water pilgrimage.'&nbsp

The luxury cruise reached Varanasi from Kolkata in August after completing around 755 nautical miles.&nbsp

With a seating space of nearly 125 people, with 60 air conditioned seats, tourists will be able to take a full view of the ghats. Along with a view of the aarti on the Ganga ghats, people on board the cruise will also be told about the history of the ancient city. It is equipped to sail in all weather conditions. &nbsp

(With inputs from Zee News)&nbsp

On board the cruise, tourists in Varanasi can watch 'Ganga aarti' at Dashshamedh ghat and 'Subha-e-Banaras' at Assi Ghat. A tour on the cruise is being termed as a form of 'water pilgrimage.'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inaugurated the 'water pilgrimage' on Ganga which is likely to be a big tourist attraction in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency. Alaknanda, a 5-star luxury tourist cruise, embarked on its maiden trip in Varanasi on Sunday. On board the cruise, tourists in Varanasi can watch 'Ganga aarti' at Dashshamedh ghat and 'Subha-e-Banaras' at Assi Ghat. A tour on the cruise is being termed as a form of 'water pilgrimage.' The luxury cruise reached Varanasi from Kolkata in August after completing around 755 nautical miles. With a seating space of nearly 125 people, with 60 air conditioned seats, tourists will be able to take a full view of the ghats. Along with a view of the aarti on the Ganga ghats, people on board the cruise will also be told about the history of the ancient city. It is equipped to sail in all weather conditions. (With inputs from Zee News)

UP chief minister inaugurates 5-star cruise line Alaknanda in Varanasi

Heavy rains lashed several parts of Delhi-NCR&nbsp;with the minimum temperature settling at 26 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average.

The weatherman has predicted more rains in the national capital later in the day.

The Safdarjung observatory, the recording of which is considered official for the city, recorded 24.6 mm rainfall in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

The Palam observatory has received 19.9 mm rainfall during the same period.

"The skies will remain cloudy. Rain is expected in several areas of the city later in the day," said an official of the meteorological department.

The humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 95 per cent.

The official said the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees Celsius.

Heavy rains lashed several parts of the national capital on Saturday, causing waterlogging and traffic snarls on major intersections in the city.

The minimum temperature was recorded at 23.5 degrees Celsius while the maximum settled at 29.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The weatherman has predicted more rains in the national capital later in the day

Heavy rains lashed several parts of Delhi-NCR with the minimum temperature settling at 26 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average. The weatherman has predicted more rains in the national capital later in the day. The Safdarjung observatory, the recording of which is considered official for the city, recorded 24.6 mm rainfall in the last 24 hours. The Palam observatory has received 19.9 mm rainfall during the same period. "The skies will remain cloudy. Rain is expected in several areas of the city later in the day," said an official of the meteorological department. The humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 95 per cent. The official said the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees Celsius. Heavy rains lashed several parts of the national capital on Saturday, causing waterlogging and traffic snarls on major intersections in the city. The minimum temperature was recorded at 23.5 degrees Celsius while the maximum settled at 29.4 degrees Celsius.

Heavy rains lash Delhi-NCR; more rains predicted

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release on Sunday a book on experiences of M Venkaiah Naidu during his first year as Vice President of India and Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

The 245-page book titled &nbspMoving on Moving forward: A year in office brings out Naidu's "mission of engagement" on four key issues with various stakeholders across the country and its alignment with the mission of a new India in the making.

Naidu says in the book that his mission of exploring and shaping public discourse over four key issues took him on extensive travels across the country since he was sworn in as Vice President on August 11 last year.

He identifies these core issues as unrealised demographic dividend, need for an effective ecosystem for farmers to thrive and bridge the rural-urban divide, orienting scientific advancements to better the lives of the people, and enhancing public awareness about the rich Indian heritage and inculcating national pride in the country's pluralistic, inclusive, harmonious worldview.

Naidu records in the book his excitement over the new role I have assumed the office of the Vice President at what seems like an interesting moment in the country's history. It is indeed a time of daunting challenges and a time of limitless opportunities.

It is a time when the country is moving forward and I feel privileged to be in this position to serve the country and its people in a new role. It is a moment when the resolute political will to transform the country is finding resonance with the people.

Clearly, there are many more miles to go. We must, as a nation, move on. We must move forward with persistence, he says in the book.

Referring to his role as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Naidu said his dream was to facilitate meaningful debates in which members express their learned and considered views.

The Chairman records his disappointment over the first two sessions of the House he presided but notes with optimism the new tidings witnessed during the monsoon session that concluded earlier this month. 
The book has 465 illustrations and seven chapters, including a detailed one on various initiatives taken by him as Chairman of Rajya Sabha and refers to the rapidly expanding viewership of RSTV.&nbsp

The 245-page book titled Moving on Moving forward: A year in office brings out Naidu's "mission of engagement" on four key issues with various stakeholders across the country and its alignment with the mission of a new India in the making

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release on Sunday a book on experiences of M Venkaiah Naidu during his first year as Vice President of India and Chairman of Rajya Sabha. The 245-page book titled &nbspMoving on Moving forward: A year in office brings out Naidu's "mission of engagement" on four key issues with various stakeholders across the country and its alignment with the mission of a new India in the making. Naidu says in the book that his mission of exploring and shaping public discourse over four key issues took him on extensive travels across the country since he was sworn in as Vice President on August 11 last year. He identifies these core issues as unrealised demographic dividend, need for an effective ecosystem for farmers to thrive and bridge the rural-urban divide, orienting scientific advancements to better the lives of the people, and enhancing public awareness about the rich Indian heritage and inculcating national pride in the country's pluralistic, inclusive, harmonious worldview. Naidu records in the book his excitement over the new role I have assumed the office of the Vice President at what seems like an interesting moment in the country's history. It is indeed a time of daunting challenges and a time of limitless opportunities. It is a time when the country is moving forward and I feel privileged to be in this position to serve the country and its people in a new role. It is a moment when the resolute political will to transform the country is finding resonance with the people. Clearly, there are many more miles to go. We must, as a nation, move on. We must move forward with persistence, he says in the book. Referring to his role as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Naidu said his dream was to facilitate meaningful debates in which members express their learned and considered views. The Chairman records his disappointment over the first two sessions of the House he presided but notes with optimism the new tidings witnessed during the monsoon session that concluded earlier this month. The book has 465 illustrations and seven chapters, including a detailed one on various initiatives taken by him as Chairman of Rajya Sabha and refers to the rapidly expanding viewership of RSTV.

PM modi to release a book on Venkaiah Naidu's first year as Vice President

The Supreme Court has agreed to consider a fresh plea of a Muslim woman seeking to declare as unconstitutional the setting up of Sharia courts to decide marriage, divorce and other cases.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud asked petitioner Zikra to file an application to intervene as a party in a batch of pleas challenging the practice of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’ among Muslims.

The apex court, which had last year banned the age-old practice of instant ‘triple talaq’ among Sunni Muslims, had on March 26 decided to refer to a five-judge Constitution bench a batch of pleas challenging the constitutional validity of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’.

Polygamy allows a Muslim man to have four wives. Under ‘nikah halala’, a man cannot remarry his former wife unless she marries another man, consummates the marriage, gets a divorce and observes a period of separation period called ‘iddat’.

Zikra, a 21-year-old resident of Uttar Pradesh and a mother of two, was represented by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay.

She has demanded that triple talaq be declared “cruelty” under Section 498A and ‘nikah halala, nikah mutah and nikah-misyar’ rape under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code.

“Polygamy is an offence under Section 494 of the IPC,” her plea read.

Muslim personal laws of India permit the practice of nikah halala and polygamy.

In her petition, Zikra narrated her experience of facing “triple talaq, nikah halala and other laws and practices”.

The woman was divorced twice and forced to undergo ‘niakh halala’ to remarry her husband.

“Declare that establishing a Sharia court to decide cases related to marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, succession and/or other similar matters is illegal and unconstitutional,” Zikra said in the plea.

The Muslim Personal Law, like all other personal laws, is subject to the rigours of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution and “any part of it contravening the fundamental rights would, to that extent, is void and ineffective”, she said.

“Nikah halala, nikah mutah, nikah misyar and polygamy definitely run counter to public order, morality and health,” the plea read.

It said these laws must “yield to the basic right of women to live with dignity, under equal protection of laws, without any discrimination on the basis of gender or religion”.

Earlier, the top court had said the petitions challenged the prevalent practices of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’ and they would be heard by the Constitution bench.

The Centre recently made it clear that it would oppose in the Supreme Court the practice of ‘nikah halala’ when the top court would examine its legal validity in the coming days.

The Centre recently made it clear that it would oppose in the Supreme Court the practice of 'nikah halala' when the top court would examine its legal validity in the coming days.

The Supreme Court has agreed to consider a fresh plea of a Muslim woman seeking to declare as unconstitutional the setting up of Sharia courts to decide marriage, divorce and other cases. A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud asked petitioner Zikra to file an application to intervene as a party in a batch of pleas challenging the practice of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’ among Muslims. The apex court, which had last year banned the age-old practice of instant ‘triple talaq’ among Sunni Muslims, had on March 26 decided to refer to a five-judge Constitution bench a batch of pleas challenging the constitutional validity of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’. Polygamy allows a Muslim man to have four wives. Under ‘nikah halala’, a man cannot remarry his former wife unless she marries another man, consummates the marriage, gets a divorce and observes a period of separation period called ‘iddat’. Zikra, a 21-year-old resident of Uttar Pradesh and a mother of two, was represented by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay. She has demanded that triple talaq be declared “cruelty” under Section 498A and ‘nikah halala, nikah mutah and nikah-misyar’ rape under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code. “Polygamy is an offence under Section 494 of the IPC,” her plea read. Muslim personal laws of India permit the practice of nikah halala and polygamy. In her petition, Zikra narrated her experience of facing “triple talaq, nikah halala and other laws and practices”. The woman was divorced twice and forced to undergo ‘niakh halala’ to remarry her husband. “Declare that establishing a Sharia court to decide cases related to marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, succession and/or other similar matters is illegal and unconstitutional,” Zikra said in the plea. The Muslim Personal Law, like all other personal laws, is subject to the rigours of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution and “any part of it contravening the fundamental rights would, to that extent, is void and ineffective”, she said. “Nikah halala, nikah mutah, nikah misyar and polygamy definitely run counter to public order, morality and health,” the plea read. It said these laws must “yield to the basic right of women to live with dignity, under equal protection of laws, without any discrimination on the basis of gender or religion”. Earlier, the top court had said the petitions challenged the prevalent practices of polygamy and ‘nikah halala’ and they would be heard by the Constitution bench. The Centre recently made it clear that it would oppose in the Supreme Court the practice of ‘nikah halala’ when the top court would examine its legal validity in the coming days.

Plea in Supreme Court challenging setting up of Sharia courts

A woman has alleged she was forced to undergo 'nikah halala' and marry her father-in-law who raped her following which a case was registered against five people, including her husband, police said Sunday.&nbsp

Under 'nikah halala', a man cannot remarry his former wife unless she marries another man, consummates the marriage, gets a divorce and observes a period of separation period called 'iddat'. &nbsp &nbsp

Apart from her husband and father-in-law, the others booked include her husband's uncle and two 'unidentified' clerics, a senior police official said.

Bareilly Zone Additional Director General of Police Prem Prakash said the woman, a resident of Moradabad district, got married to a resident of Turtipura under the Nakhasa police station on December 7, 2014.

"The woman alleged that she was thrown out of her in-laws' house on December 25, 2015," he said.

Following which on January 3, 2016, the woman registered a case against her in-laws for harassing her. However, on December 24, 2016, both the sides reached an agreement and she went back to her in-laws' house, Prakash said.&nbsp

The woman in her complaint said at her in-laws place, her husband, his father, his uncle and two clerics claimed that as she was out of the house, they had a divorce and she have to undergo 'nikah halala'.

The victim claimed that she had objected to nikah halala but the two clerics, brought by her husband's uncle, had said that she will be married to her father-in-law for nikah halala process.

Later, she was locked in a room with her father-in-law who raped her. In the morning, she was given divorce by her father-in-law. After which she was raped by her husband, and she became pregnant, police said quoting the FIR.

After this she went to her maternal home, and gave birth to a boy on October 6, 2017.

The victim also alleged that she had submitted an application in this regard with the district magistrate, following which she and her family were receiving death threats from her husband and a few clerics.

The ADGP said, "A case of gang-rape has been registered against the woman's husband, father-in-law, uncle-in-law and two unknown clerics."&nbsp

"The case was registered on Saturday and investigations are underway," the senior police officer said.

Under 'nikah halala', a man cannot remarry his former wife unless she marries another man, consummates the marriage, gets a divorce and observes a period of separation period called 'iddat'.

A woman has alleged she was forced to undergo 'nikah halala' and marry her father-in-law who raped her following which a case was registered against five people, including her husband, police said Sunday. Under 'nikah halala', a man cannot remarry his former wife unless she marries another man, consummates the marriage, gets a divorce and observes a period of separation period called 'iddat'. Apart from her husband and father-in-law, the others booked include her husband's uncle and two 'unidentified' clerics, a senior police official said. Bareilly Zone Additional Director General of Police Prem Prakash said the woman, a resident of Moradabad district, got married to a resident of Turtipura under the Nakhasa police station on December 7, 2014. "The woman alleged that she was thrown out of her in-laws' house on December 25, 2015," he said. Following which on January 3, 2016, the woman registered a case against her in-laws for harassing her. However, on December 24, 2016, both the sides reached an agreement and she went back to her in-laws' house, Prakash said. The woman in her complaint said at her in-laws place, her husband, his father, his uncle and two clerics claimed that as she was out of the house, they had a divorce and she have to undergo 'nikah halala'. The victim claimed that she had objected to nikah halala but the two clerics, brought by her husband's uncle, had said that she will be married to her father-in-law for nikah halala process. Later, she was locked in a room with her father-in-law who raped her. In the morning, she was given divorce by her father-in-law. After which she was raped by her husband, and she became pregnant, police said quoting the FIR. After this she went to her maternal home, and gave birth to a boy on October 6, 2017. The victim also alleged that she had submitted an application in this regard with the district magistrate, following which she and her family were receiving death threats from her husband and a few clerics. The ADGP said, "A case of gang-rape has been registered against the woman's husband, father-in-law, uncle-in-law and two unknown clerics." "The case was registered on Saturday and investigations are underway," the senior police officer said.

Woman alleges 'forced to undergo nikah halala', raped by father-in-law

In a startling revelation, as many as 14 dead bodies of infants were reportedly found buried in an abandoned compound of Kolkata on Sunday.&nbsp;

Workers of Kolkata Municipal Corporation were cleaning this compound in South Kolkata’s Behala area, when they came across a dead body of an infant wrapped in a plastic bag.&nbsp;

The workers immediately informed the local police. Officers of Haridevpur Police Station rushed to the spot and on further raids found&nbsp;as many as 13 other dead bodies of the infants wrapped in 13 plastic bags.&nbsp;

According to the police, no human tissues have been found in the packets when it was opened by the doctors in Kolkata. The doctors informed that the packets had some dry ice.

Further examination is on for exact nature of the material, the police informed.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpotVisuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpotVisuals</a>: Skeleton of 14 babies have been found wrapped in plastic bags in Kolkata's Haridevpur. Police have started an investigation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/e8jp80rwRI">pic.twitter.com/e8jp80rwRI</a>
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On hearing the news, Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Praveen Tripathi and Deputy Commissioner of South West Division Nilanjan Biswas immediately&nbsp;rushed to the scene.&nbsp;

“Today we received an information from corporation cleaners that they found a dead body wrapped in plastic. On further investigation we found more such bodies. We are yet to ascertain whether all of them were foetuses or dead bodies of infants. Autopsy will throw more light on whether they were still born or died after their birth and whether they died in a premature stage,” said Nilanjan Biswas, deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (South West Division).&nbsp;

Two years back, a major infant trafficking racket had come to light in Bengal. The police is not ruling out any possibility whether this incident had any connections with the trafficking racket or any nursing home was involved in dumping foetuses amidst carrying out abortions illegally.&nbsp;

The Kolkata Mayor Sovan Chattopadhay also reached the spot to take stock of the situation.

“Workers of the cleaning department of Kolkata Municipal Corporation were given the task of cleaning this abandoned compound. While cleaning this area, they found a dead body of an infant. Immediately police was informed and we found 14 other dead bodies wrapped in plastic bags. The skeletons have some kind of chemical on it to prevent any foul smell so it doesn’t raise any alarm as the area is densely populated,” said Mayor Sovan Chattopadhyay.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the dead bodies have been rushed to the MR Bangur hospital for autopsy.&nbsp;

Workers of Kolkata Municipal Corporation were cleaning this compound in South Kolkata’s Behala area, when they came across a dead body of an infant wrapped in a plastic bag.

In a startling revelation, as many as 14 dead bodies of infants were reportedly found buried in an abandoned compound of Kolkata on Sunday. Workers of Kolkata Municipal Corporation were cleaning this compound in South Kolkata’s Behala area, when they came across a dead body of an infant wrapped in a plastic bag. The workers immediately informed the local police. Officers of Haridevpur Police Station rushed to the spot and on further raids found as many as 13 other dead bodies of the infants wrapped in 13 plastic bags. According to the police, no human tissues have been found in the packets when it was opened by the doctors in Kolkata. The doctors informed that the packets had some dry ice. Further examination is on for exact nature of the material, the police informed. #SpotVisuals: Skeleton of 14 babies have been found wrapped in plastic bags in Kolkata's Haridevpur. Police have started an investigation. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/e8jp80rwRI — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2018 × On hearing the news, Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Praveen Tripathi and Deputy Commissioner of South West Division Nilanjan Biswas immediately rushed to the scene. “Today we received an information from corporation cleaners that they found a dead body wrapped in plastic. On further investigation we found more such bodies. We are yet to ascertain whether all of them were foetuses or dead bodies of infants. Autopsy will throw more light on whether they were still born or died after their birth and whether they died in a premature stage,” said Nilanjan Biswas, deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (South West Division). Two years back, a major infant trafficking racket had come to light in Bengal. The police is not ruling out any possibility whether this incident had any connections with the trafficking racket or any nursing home was involved in dumping foetuses amidst carrying out abortions illegally. The Kolkata Mayor Sovan Chattopadhay also reached the spot to take stock of the situation. “Workers of the cleaning department of Kolkata Municipal Corporation were given the task of cleaning this abandoned compound. While cleaning this area, they found a dead body of an infant. Immediately police was informed and we found 14 other dead bodies wrapped in plastic bags. The skeletons have some kind of chemical on it to prevent any foul smell so it doesn’t raise any alarm as the area is densely populated,” said Mayor Sovan Chattopadhyay. Meanwhile, the dead bodies have been rushed to the MR Bangur hospital for autopsy.

14 dead bodies of infants found wrapped in plastic bags in Kolkata

''Talk should not be on my name but on my work','' said senior AAP leader Atishi, who is in the middle of a controversy for dropping her surname Marlena ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

AAP leader allegedly dropped her last name after the BJP reportedly started spreading misinformation that her surname Marlena is a Christian.&nbsp;

As part of the change, Atishi's Twitter is now "@AtishiAAP" from the earlier @Atishimarlena.

The AAP leader has been&nbsp;named Marlena apparently after Communist thinkers Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, according to reports.

The Aam Aadmi Party had rejected reports that it forced Atishi,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-leader-atishi-marlena-drops-her-last-name-after-alleged-rumours--162189"> party's east Delhi Lok Sabha probable</a>, to change her last name because it was "Christian-sounding".

Responding to queries about her name change at a press conference to release the joint manifesto of AAP's student wing Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CYSS) and Left-wing student outfit All India Students Association (AISA), Atishi said, "I had left my surname a long time ago. I feel one should not talk about name but about the work we have been doing. The talk should be about issues like women's security, education."

Campaign leaflets and posters now carry her first name only.&nbsp;

Though the AAP is yet to officially declare its candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, scheduled to be held next year, the party has named Atishi (East Delhi), Raghav Chadha (South Delhi), Pankaj Gupta (Chandni Chowk), Dilip Pandey (Northeast Delhi) and Ghuggan Singh (Northwest Delhi) as in-charges of these constituencies, a PTI report said.

The AAP leader's profile in the party's official website has also been changed

''Talk should not be on my name but on my work','' said senior AAP leader Atishi, who is in the middle of a controversy for dropping her surname Marlena ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. AAP leader allegedly dropped her last name after the BJP reportedly started spreading misinformation that her surname Marlena is a Christian. As part of the change, Atishi's Twitter is now "@AtishiAAP" from the earlier @Atishimarlena. The AAP leader has been named Marlena apparently after Communist thinkers Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, according to reports. The Aam Aadmi Party had rejected reports that it forced Atishi, party's east Delhi Lok Sabha probable, to change her last name because it was "Christian-sounding". Responding to queries about her name change at a press conference to release the joint manifesto of AAP's student wing Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CYSS) and Left-wing student outfit All India Students Association (AISA), Atishi said, "I had left my surname a long time ago. I feel one should not talk about name but about the work we have been doing. The talk should be about issues like women's security, education." Campaign leaflets and posters now carry her first name only. Though the AAP is yet to officially declare its candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, scheduled to be held next year, the party has named Atishi (East Delhi), Raghav Chadha (South Delhi), Pankaj Gupta (Chandni Chowk), Dilip Pandey (Northeast Delhi) and Ghuggan Singh (Northwest Delhi) as in-charges of these constituencies, a PTI report said.

AAP leader Atishi, who dropped her 'Christian-sounding' surname, says talks should be on work

Former finance minister P Chidambaram on Sunday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his recent remarks on loans given during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime, asking the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government to reveal the number of loans given by it which has turned into Non-Performing Assets or NPAs.

In a series of tweets, Chidambaram said, "Let's assume that PM is right when he says that loans given under UPA have turned bad. How many of those loans were renewed or rolled over (that is 'evergreened') under NDA?"

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Let's assume that PM is right when he says that loans given under UPA have turned bad. How many of those loans were renewed or rolled over (that is 'evergreened') under NDA?
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1036100964824936453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The former finance minister also questioned as to why the present dispensation did not recall those loans, which were issued by the previous government and turned bad.

"Why were those loans not recalled? Why were those loans evergreened?" Chidambaram said in another tweet.

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Why were those loans not recalled? Why were those loans evergreened?
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1036101060438286336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Questioning how many loans were given after May 2014 that were turned into non-performing assets, another tweet by Chidambaram read, "How many loans and how much that were given after May 2014 have become non-performing assets?"

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How many loans and how much that were given after May 2014 have become non-performing assets?
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1036101166826905601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chidambaram further said that the above question was also raised in the Parliament, however, no answer has been received so far.

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This question was asked in Parliament but there is no answer so far.
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Chidambaram's response came after Prime Minister Modi on Saturday launched an attack on the Congress, saying the loans were lent by banks to only selected rich businessmen after phone calls were made by 'namdars' under the previous UPA regime.&nbsp

In a series of tweets, Chidambaram said, 'Let's assume that PM is right when he says that loans given under UPA have turned bad. How many of those loans were renewed or rolled over (that is 'evergreened') under NDA?'

Former finance minister P Chidambaram on Sunday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his recent remarks on loans given during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime, asking the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government to reveal the number of loans given by it which has turned into Non-Performing Assets or NPAs. In a series of tweets, Chidambaram said, "Let's assume that PM is right when he says that loans given under UPA have turned bad. How many of those loans were renewed or rolled over (that is 'evergreened') under NDA?" Let's assume that PM is right when he says that loans given under UPA have turned bad. How many of those loans were renewed or rolled over (that is 'evergreened') under NDA? — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) September 2, 2018 × The former finance minister also questioned as to why the present dispensation did not recall those loans, which were issued by the previous government and turned bad. "Why were those loans not recalled? Why were those loans evergreened?" Chidambaram said in another tweet. Why were those loans not recalled? Why were those loans evergreened? — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) September 2, 2018 × Questioning how many loans were given after May 2014 that were turned into non-performing assets, another tweet by Chidambaram read, "How many loans and how much that were given after May 2014 have become non-performing assets?" How many loans and how much that were given after May 2014 have become non-performing assets? — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) September 2, 2018 × Chidambaram further said that the above question was also raised in the Parliament, however, no answer has been received so far. This question was asked in Parliament but there is no answer so far. — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) September 2, 2018 × Chidambaram's response came after Prime Minister Modi on Saturday launched an attack on the Congress, saying the loans were lent by banks to only selected rich businessmen after phone calls were made by 'namdars' under the previous UPA regime.

Chidambaram asks PM Modi to reveal number of bad loans under NDA

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday appealed to the people of Telangana not to become slaves of Delhi parties and urged them to emulate Tamil Nadu for their self-respect.&nbsp

The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief gave the call at a massive public meeting held here amid talks of early polls.&nbsp

TRS sources said the rally, held in Rangareddy district's Kongara Kalan, was attended by 25 lakh people.

Promising to take Telangana forward on the path of development, Rao sought continued support of the people.&nbsp

"In Tamil Nadu, people rule their own state with their leaders. Similarly, we shall retain power and not surrender to Delhi leadership," said KCR.

"You have to decide whether decisions relating to Telangana should be taken by us here or should we become slaves of Delhi parties," he said in an obvious reference to Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Telangana?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Telangana</a> CM Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao arrives at Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) rally venue in Ranga Reddy district. <a href="https://t.co/CJ2MKbFt4K">pic.twitter.com/CJ2MKbFt4K</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1036236242864746498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The rally by the ruling TRS was held amid speculation about the possibility of early polls to the Telangana Legislative Assembly.

TRS sources said the rally, held in Rangareddy district's Kongara Kalan, was attended by 25 lakh people.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday appealed to the people of Telangana not to become slaves of Delhi parties and urged them to emulate Tamil Nadu for their self-respect. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief gave the call at a massive public meeting held here amid talks of early polls. TRS sources said the rally, held in Rangareddy district's Kongara Kalan, was attended by 25 lakh people. Promising to take Telangana forward on the path of development, Rao sought continued support of the people. "In Tamil Nadu, people rule their own state with their leaders. Similarly, we shall retain power and not surrender to Delhi leadership," said KCR. "You have to decide whether decisions relating to Telangana should be taken by us here or should we become slaves of Delhi parties," he said in an obvious reference to Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). #Telangana CM Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao arrives at Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) rally venue in Ranga Reddy district. pic.twitter.com/CJ2MKbFt4K — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2018 × The rally by the ruling TRS was held amid speculation about the possibility of early polls to the Telangana Legislative Assembly.

K Chandrasekhar Rao to Telangana: Don't surrender to Delhi leadership

Four naxals were killed on Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Chattisgarh's Narayanpur district, around 350 kilometres from here police said. A woman was also killed among them.

The gunfight took place at around 2:30 pm in the Gumiyabeda village forest when a team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Maoist operation, Narayanpur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Shukla told PTI.

The ultras fled the spot and entered the dense forest after a brief exchange of fire, he said.

The bodies of four naxals and weapons were found at the spot, the SP said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The combing operation is underway in the area, he added.&nbsp;

The bodies of four naxals and weapons were found at the spot, the SP said.

Four naxals were killed on Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Chattisgarh's Narayanpur district, around 350 kilometres from here police said. A woman was also killed among them. The gunfight took place at around 2:30 pm in the Gumiyabeda village forest when a team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Maoist operation, Narayanpur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Shukla told PTI. The ultras fled the spot and entered the dense forest after a brief exchange of fire, he said. The bodies of four naxals and weapons were found at the spot, the SP said. The combing operation is underway in the area, he added.

Chattisgarh: Four naxals killed in encounter with security forces in Narayanpur district

India is expected to convey to the US during the upcoming 'two-plus-two' talks that it is going ahead with the Rs 40,000 crore deal with Russia to procure a batch of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-wont-back-out-of-buying-s-400s-from-russia-despite-us-pressure-indias-envoy-143180">S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems</a>, notwithstanding the American sanctions on military transactions with Moscow, official sources said Sunday.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/what-is-the-s-400-missile-defence-system-that-india-is-eyeing-to-buy-140653">Also read: What is the S-400 missile defence system that India is eyeing to buy</a>

They said India is likely to seek a waiver from the Trump administration for the mega-deal, citing its requirement for the missile system in the wake of the evolving regional security architecture as well as considering its close defence ties with Russia.

"India has almost concluded the <a href="http://wionews.com/world/turkey-needs-russian-s-400-missiles-president-erdogan-162673">S-400 missile deal with Russia,</a> and we are going ahead with it. Our position on the issue will be conveyed to the US," said a high-level official source.

The US has imposed military sanctions against Russia under the stringent CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) law for its annexation of Crimea as well as alleged meddling in the American presidential election in 2016.

CAATSA mandates the Donald Trump administration to punish entities and countries engaging in significant transaction with the defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Randall Schriver, the Pentagon's senior official handling issues relating to Asia, said Thursday that the US cannot guarantee that India will be exempted from sanctions if it purchases weapons and defence systems from Russia.&nbsp;

The US has been indicating that it does not want India to finalise the deal with Russia.

A new US defence legislation authorises President Donald Trump to exempt countries from the military sanctions.&nbsp;

The first edition of the much-awaited 2+2 dialogue on strategic affairs between the US and India will take place here 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 sources said India will push for a waiver from the US for the missile deal with Russia, as the air defence system was critical for its security preparedness.

They said there was a possibility that both Russia and India are likely to announce the deal before the annual summit between prime minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin in October.

There has been mounting concerns in India over the US sanctions against Russian defence majors including Rosoboronexport as billions of dollars of military purchases may be impacted because of the punitive measure.

India wants to procure the long-range missile systems to tighten its air defence mechanism, particularly along the nearly 4,000-km-long Sino-India border. S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system.

China was the first foreign buyer to seal a government-to-government deal with Russia in 2014 to procure the lethal missile system and Moscow has already started delivery of unknown number of the S-400 missile systems to Beijing.

The S-400 is an upgraded version of the S-300 systems. The missile system, manufactured by Almaz-Antey, has been in service in Russia since 2007.

The first edition of the much-awaited 2+2 dialogue on strategic affairs between the US and India will take place here on September 6 during which a range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interests will be discussed.

India is expected to convey to the US during the upcoming 'two-plus-two' talks that it is going ahead with the Rs 40,000 crore deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems, notwithstanding the American sanctions on military transactions with Moscow, official sources said Sunday. Also read: What is the S-400 missile defence system that India is eyeing to buy They said India is likely to seek a waiver from the Trump administration for the mega-deal, citing its requirement for the missile system in the wake of the evolving regional security architecture as well as considering its close defence ties with Russia. "India has almost concluded the S-400 missile deal with Russia, and we are going ahead with it. Our position on the issue will be conveyed to the US," said a high-level official source. The US has imposed military sanctions against Russia under the stringent CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) law for its annexation of Crimea as well as alleged meddling in the American presidential election in 2016. CAATSA mandates the Donald Trump administration to punish entities and countries engaging in significant transaction with the defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. Randall Schriver, the Pentagon's senior official handling issues relating to Asia, said Thursday that the US cannot guarantee that India will be exempted from sanctions if it purchases weapons and defence systems from Russia. The US has been indicating that it does not want India to finalise the deal with Russia. A new US defence legislation authorises President Donald Trump to exempt countries from the military sanctions. The first edition of the much-awaited 2+2 dialogue on strategic affairs between the US and India will take place here 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 sources said India will push for a waiver from the US for the missile deal with Russia, as the air defence system was critical for its security preparedness. They said there was a possibility that both Russia and India are likely to announce the deal before the annual summit between prime minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin in October. There has been mounting concerns in India over the US sanctions against Russian defence majors including Rosoboronexport as billions of dollars of military purchases may be impacted because of the punitive measure. India wants to procure the long-range missile systems to tighten its air defence mechanism, particularly along the nearly 4,000-km-long Sino-India border. S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system. China was the first foreign buyer to seal a government-to-government deal with Russia in 2014 to procure the lethal missile system and Moscow has already started delivery of unknown number of the S-400 missile systems to Beijing. The S-400 is an upgraded version of the S-300 systems. The missile system, manufactured by Almaz-Antey, has been in service in Russia since 2007.

'2+2' talks: India to tell US its decision to go ahead with S-400 deal with Russia

The actress Swara Bhasker commented Saturday on the recent <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhima-koregaon-violence-police-carry-out-raids-in-5-states-activists-arrested-162113?src=tw">arrests of the five activists</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-trolling-swara-bhaskar-quips-indo-pak-peace-on-the-horizon-141980?amp">Bhasker</a>, who was speaking to the media in Delhi, said our answer much too often is to "lock people up".&nbsp;

This idea of jailing people — turning into a "bloodthirsty" society — was not a good thing, she added.&nbsp;

Bhasker added that during the Khalistan agitation, there were many people who referred to Bhindranwala as a "saint". Should we lock them all up, she asked. &nbsp;

A lot of people celebrated when Mahatma Gandhi was killed. Today, she added, they are in power.&nbsp;

Should we lock them all up, asked Bhasker again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The answer she added was "obviously not".&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Actor Swara Bhaskar in an interaction with media in Delhi says, 'Is desh mein Mahatma Gandhi jaise mahaan insaan ki hatya hui, us waqt bhi kuch aise log the jo celebrate kar rahe the unki hatya ko, aaj wo satta mein hain, un sabko daal dena chahiye jail mein?' <a href="https://t.co/06tSMpo0d1">pic.twitter.com/06tSMpo0d1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1035890783398707200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The five activists were arrested on August&nbsp;28 by Pune Police which has since said they are "Urban Naxals" who are helping the Maoists.&nbsp;

The police and government however has been slammed for the arrests, with commentators saying they&nbsp;have offered little by way of proof.&nbsp;

Bhasker was commenting on the recent arrests of the five activists by Pune Police.

The actress Swara Bhasker commented Saturday on the recent arrests of the five activists. Bhasker, who was speaking to the media in Delhi, said our answer much too often is to "lock people up". This idea of jailing people — turning into a "bloodthirsty" society — was not a good thing, she added. Bhasker added that during the Khalistan agitation, there were many people who referred to Bhindranwala as a "saint". Should we lock them all up, she asked. A lot of people celebrated when Mahatma Gandhi was killed. Today, she added, they are in power. Should we lock them all up, asked Bhasker again. The answer she added was "obviously not". #WATCH: Actor Swara Bhaskar in an interaction with media in Delhi says, 'Is desh mein Mahatma Gandhi jaise mahaan insaan ki hatya hui, us waqt bhi kuch aise log the jo celebrate kar rahe the unki hatya ko, aaj wo satta mein hain, un sabko daal dena chahiye jail mein?' pic.twitter.com/06tSMpo0d1 — ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2018 × The five activists were arrested on August 28 by Pune Police which has since said they are "Urban Naxals" who are helping the Maoists. The police and government however has been slammed for the arrests, with commentators saying they have offered little by way of proof.

People who celebrated Gandhi's killing are in power today: Swara Bhasker

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Saturday that dissent is allowed, but not destabilising India.&nbsp

"I want to clarify that there will never be any effort to compress the pressure cooker. All have the right to speak, do whatever they want in democracy but no one will be allowed to destabilise the country or create violence," PTI quoted Singh as saying.&nbsp

"Any effort to destabilise any government, taking refuge in one's ideology for promoting violence, conspiring to destabilise and break the country, I feel there cannot be a bigger crime than this," PTI quoted Singh as saying.&nbsp

Singh made his comments in Lucknow at the Hindustan Shikhar Samagam.&nbsp

Singh was replying to a question on the Supreme Court's recent comment that "dissent is the safety valve of democracy. If you don't allow the safety valve, the pressure cooker will burst" after the recent arrests of the five activists.&nbsp

The government has since been slammed for the arrests with several commentators saying the government is stepping down on any and all dissent.&nbsp

Singh added that the BJP government is committed to upholding "democratic values".&nbsp

"Our government is committed to upholding democratic values. See the record of those arrested. In 2012 too many of them were arrested and at that time also similar allegations were raised," Singh added.&nbsp

Commentators however have pointed out that the activists arrested were also acquitted of all charges.&nbsp

Singh also mentioned Kashmir saying it was a chronic problem which will take time to be resolved.&nbsp

But it will be realised, he said.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

'I want to clarify that there will never be any effort to compress the pressure cooker. All have the right to speak, do whatever they want in democracy but no one will be allowed to destabilise the country or create violence,' Singh said.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Saturday that dissent is allowed, but not destabilising India. "I want to clarify that there will never be any effort to compress the pressure cooker. All have the right to speak, do whatever they want in democracy but no one will be allowed to destabilise the country or create violence," PTI quoted Singh as saying. "Any effort to destabilise any government, taking refuge in one's ideology for promoting violence, conspiring to destabilise and break the country, I feel there cannot be a bigger crime than this," PTI quoted Singh as saying. Singh made his comments in Lucknow at the Hindustan Shikhar Samagam. Singh was replying to a question on the Supreme Court's recent comment that "dissent is the safety valve of democracy. If you don't allow the safety valve, the pressure cooker will burst" after the recent arrests of the five activists. The government has since been slammed for the arrests with several commentators saying the government is stepping down on any and all dissent. Singh added that the BJP government is committed to upholding "democratic values". "Our government is committed to upholding democratic values. See the record of those arrested. In 2012 too many of them were arrested and at that time also similar allegations were raised," Singh added. Commentators however have pointed out that the activists arrested were also acquitted of all charges. Singh also mentioned Kashmir saying it was a chronic problem which will take time to be resolved. But it will be realised, he said. (With inputs from PTI)

Dissent is allowed, not destabilising India: Rajnath Singh

Referring to police allegations against the Left-wing activists arrested for 'Maoist links', Dalit leader Prakash Ambedkar on Saturday said why bullets were being used when only an insecticide was needed to "kill rats".

His comments come a day after Maharashtra police revealed excerpts from letters allegedly hinting at a plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Does the letter anywhere talk about killing the prime minister? It only spoke of a 'Rajiv Gandhi-style (incident)'. But you added prime minister to it. Only a Tik-20 is needed to kill rats, not bullets," Ambedkar told reporters.

A former MP and chief of Bahujan Mahasangh, Ambedkar is the grandson of Dr B R Ambedkar.

At a press conference here on Friday, Additional Director General of Police Param Bir Singh had read out some letters purportedly exchanged between some of the accused.

An email between Rona Wilson, an activist arrested in June, and a Maoist leader, spoke of a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj", Singh had said.

"Comrade Kishen and a few other comrades have proposed concrete steps to end the Modi raj. We are thinking along the lines of another Rajiv Gandhi-like incident," Singh quoted the email as saying.

The police have "conclusive proof" to link the arrested Left-wing activists to the Maoists, the ADG had said.

On August 28, the Pune police arrested Varavara Rao in Hyderabad, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, Sudha Bharadwaj in Faridabad and Gautam Navalakha in Delhi.

The raids were carried out as part of a probe into the Elgaar Parishad conclave in Pune on December 31 last year, which allegedly triggered violence at Koregaon-Bhima in the district the next day.&nbsp;

His comments come a day after Maharashtra police revealed excerpts from letters allegedly hinting at a plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Referring to police allegations against the Left-wing activists arrested for 'Maoist links', Dalit leader Prakash Ambedkar on Saturday said why bullets were being used when only an insecticide was needed to "kill rats". His comments come a day after Maharashtra police revealed excerpts from letters allegedly hinting at a plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Does the letter anywhere talk about killing the prime minister? It only spoke of a 'Rajiv Gandhi-style (incident)'. But you added prime minister to it. Only a Tik-20 is needed to kill rats, not bullets," Ambedkar told reporters. A former MP and chief of Bahujan Mahasangh, Ambedkar is the grandson of Dr B R Ambedkar. At a press conference here on Friday, Additional Director General of Police Param Bir Singh had read out some letters purportedly exchanged between some of the accused. An email between Rona Wilson, an activist arrested in June, and a Maoist leader, spoke of a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj", Singh had said. "Comrade Kishen and a few other comrades have proposed concrete steps to end the Modi raj. We are thinking along the lines of another Rajiv Gandhi-like incident," Singh quoted the email as saying. The police have "conclusive proof" to link the arrested Left-wing activists to the Maoists, the ADG had said. On August 28, the Pune police arrested Varavara Rao in Hyderabad, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, Sudha Bharadwaj in Faridabad and Gautam Navalakha in Delhi. The raids were carried out as part of a probe into the Elgaar Parishad conclave in Pune on December 31 last year, which allegedly triggered violence at Koregaon-Bhima in the district the next day.

Activists' arrests: Dalit leader says police using bullets to 'kill rats'

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, along with Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, on Sunday visited the Balbir Forward Post in Jammu and Kashmir and met troops of the 28th Infantry Division. She became the first Defence Minister ever to visit the post.

Sitharaman also held discussions with Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar. She was received by the Governor on her arrival. The Defence Minister extended her warm greetings to Malik on his appointment as the state governor, an official statement read.

The two also discussed several important inter-related issues concerning the effective management of internal and external security, particularly in the context of increasing attempts at infiltration and the ongoing anti-terrorist operations.

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Sitharaman and Malik also held detailed discussions on the urban local bodies and panchayat elections, which will be conducted in the months of October to December this year.

They also underscored the crucial need for strengthening and the maintenance of vital road networks and strategic connectivities in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Ladakh region.

Malik lauded the Northern Army's working in total coordination with the civil administration, state police and central armed forces for ensuring safety and security of the people.

Meanwhile, Director General of Police, Shesh Paul Vaid, also met the Governor and briefed him about the internal security situation in the state and about various welfare schemes of the Jammu and Kashmir Police instituted for its personnel.

Sitharaman also held discussions with Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, along with Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, on Sunday visited the Balbir Forward Post in Jammu and Kashmir and met troops of the 28th Infantry Division. She became the first Defence Minister ever to visit the post. Sitharaman also held discussions with Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar. She was received by the Governor on her arrival. The Defence Minister extended her warm greetings to Malik on his appointment as the state governor, an official statement read. The two also discussed several important inter-related issues concerning the effective management of internal and external security, particularly in the context of increasing attempts at infiltration and the ongoing anti-terrorist operations. Sitharaman and Malik also held detailed discussions on the urban local bodies and panchayat elections, which will be conducted in the months of October to December this year. They also underscored the crucial need for strengthening and the maintenance of vital road networks and strategic connectivities in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Ladakh region. Malik lauded the Northern Army's working in total coordination with the civil administration, state police and central armed forces for ensuring safety and security of the people. Meanwhile, Director General of Police, Shesh Paul Vaid, also met the Governor and briefed him about the internal security situation in the state and about various welfare schemes of the Jammu and Kashmir Police instituted for its personnel.

Sitharaman becomes 1st Defence Minister to visit Balbir Forward Post

A top government adviser said that India has made necessary provisions and prepared for any possible scenario related to fallout of the US sanctions on Iran.

During an interview with news agency, Sanjeev Sanyal, the Finance Ministry's Principal Economic Adviser said it's better to wait for anything to happen before commenting or taking any actions against it.

"We have already weighed our options... various scenarios have been thought about and in each one, certain series of sequences have been planned. Provisions have somewhat been made where necessary. In many cases, you just have to do it when it happens. The key is to react fast,'' Sanyal said.

"So rather than predispose ourselves to a particular line of response, what we can do is have a whole bunch of options and then as things evolve, we know which option to take. The point is to maintain optionality rather than pre-commit to a certain sequence," Mr Sanyal added.

Not only sanctions against Iran is the external factor which concerns Indian economy, but also factors like rising oil prices and the US-China trade war. &nbsp;

"There is the trade war looming. We have oil prices which we need to look out for. And the US is tightening its monetary policy. These are not new concerns they have been building up for some weeks now, if not months. But these are concerns that will have an impact on us," Mr Sanyal said.

He said while the impact of these events is "non-quantifiable", the best option for India is to "watch carefully what happens, how systems evolve and to respond quickly to protect national interests," he added.

"The point is that since we don't know how the trade war and many of these things will pan out, or oil prices for that matter, so we will have to wait," he concluded.

Mr Sanytal also said that government's focus is to clean up the banking system ensure credit flow to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and simplify the GST.

Not only sanctions against Iran is the external factor which concerns Indian economy, but also factors like rising oil prices and the US-China trade war.

A top government adviser said that India has made necessary provisions and prepared for any possible scenario related to fallout of the US sanctions on Iran. During an interview with news agency, Sanjeev Sanyal, the Finance Ministry's Principal Economic Adviser said it's better to wait for anything to happen before commenting or taking any actions against it. "We have already weighed our options... various scenarios have been thought about and in each one, certain series of sequences have been planned. Provisions have somewhat been made where necessary. In many cases, you just have to do it when it happens. The key is to react fast,'' Sanyal said. "So rather than predispose ourselves to a particular line of response, what we can do is have a whole bunch of options and then as things evolve, we know which option to take. The point is to maintain optionality rather than pre-commit to a certain sequence," Mr Sanyal added. Not only sanctions against Iran is the external factor which concerns Indian economy, but also factors like rising oil prices and the US-China trade war. "There is the trade war looming. We have oil prices which we need to look out for. And the US is tightening its monetary policy. These are not new concerns they have been building up for some weeks now, if not months. But these are concerns that will have an impact on us," Mr Sanyal said. He said while the impact of these events is "non-quantifiable", the best option for India is to "watch carefully what happens, how systems evolve and to respond quickly to protect national interests," he added. "The point is that since we don't know how the trade war and many of these things will pan out, or oil prices for that matter, so we will have to wait," he concluded. Mr Sanytal also said that government's focus is to clean up the banking system ensure credit flow to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and simplify the GST.

India ready to deal with US sanctions on Iran, made necessary provisions

Kanhaiya Kumar, former president of Jawaharlal Nehru University students union (JNUSU) and an accused of raising anti-national slogans in 2016, will contest 2019 Lok Sabha election from Bihar's Begusarai parliamentary seat.&nbsp

Kanhaiya Kumar will contest as Communist Party of India (CPI) candidate from Begusarai, all Left parties decided.&nbsp

Kanhaiya was arrested in February 2016 by the Delhi Police after being accused of being involved in a controversial event in JNU wherein anti-India slogans were allegedly raised, a charge vehemently denied by Kanhaiya.

Though Kanhaiya Kumar will contest on the CPI ticket, he will be the nominee of grand alliance comprising the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Jitan Ram Manjhi-led HAM (S), Loktantrik Janata Dal of Sharad Yadav and all Left parties. The RJD and the Congress have agreed not to nominate a candidate from Begusarai seat.&nbsp

In 2014 Lok Sabha election, BJP candidate Bhola Singh won from Begusarai seat, defeating RJD's Tanveer Hasan by 58,000 votes.

Kanhaiya will contest the election on a ticket from the Communist Party of India (CPI). He is a native of Beehat panchayat in Begusarai district.

Kanhaiya Kumar, former president of Jawaharlal Nehru University students union (JNUSU) and an accused of raising anti-national slogans in 2016, will contest 2019 Lok Sabha election from Bihar's Begusarai parliamentary seat. Kanhaiya Kumar will contest as Communist Party of India (CPI) candidate from Begusarai, all Left parties decided. Kanhaiya was arrested in February 2016 by the Delhi Police after being accused of being involved in a controversial event in JNU wherein anti-India slogans were allegedly raised, a charge vehemently denied by Kanhaiya. Though Kanhaiya Kumar will contest on the CPI ticket, he will be the nominee of grand alliance comprising the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Jitan Ram Manjhi-led HAM (S), Loktantrik Janata Dal of Sharad Yadav and all Left parties. The RJD and the Congress have agreed not to nominate a candidate from Begusarai seat. In 2014 Lok Sabha election, BJP candidate Bhola Singh won from Begusarai seat, defeating RJD's Tanveer Hasan by 58,000 votes.

Kanhaiya Kumar set to contest 2019 Lok Sabha polls from Bihar's Begusarai as CPI Candidate

President Ram Nath Kovind arrived in Cyprus on Sunday on the first leg of his three-nation visit to Europe to continue India's high-level engagements with European countries.

The president and his wife arrived at the Larnaca International Airport here.&nbsp

They were received by Georgios Lakkotrypis, Cyprus' Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism. &nbsp &nbsp&nbsp

"Happy to begin my visit to Cyprus, one of our closest and most steadfast partners in the international community. My delegation and I bring warm and friendly currents from the Indian Ocean to the waters of the Mediterranean. Looking forward to a productive visit," Kovind tweeted.

Apart from Cyprus, Kovind will also visit Bulgaria and the Czech Republic.

This is his first overseas state visit in the second year of his presidency.

They were received by Georgios Lakkotrypis, Cyprus' Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism.

President Ram Nath Kovind arrived in Cyprus on Sunday on the first leg of his three-nation visit to Europe to continue India's high-level engagements with European countries. The president and his wife arrived at the Larnaca International Airport here. They were received by Georgios Lakkotrypis, Cyprus' Minister of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism. "Happy to begin my visit to Cyprus, one of our closest and most steadfast partners in the international community. My delegation and I bring warm and friendly currents from the Indian Ocean to the waters of the Mediterranean. Looking forward to a productive visit," Kovind tweeted. Apart from Cyprus, Kovind will also visit Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. This is his first overseas state visit in the second year of his presidency.

President Kovind arrives in Cyprus, on three-nation tour to Europe

A Bharatiya Janata Party training guidebook, which is meant to orient its workers and office-bearers to its ideology and views on key issues, says that Maoists in India enjoy "regular support from Pakistan and China", making them a big threat to the country's internal security.

It says that Maoists, also called Naxals, are "reportedly conspiring to conduct joint strikes with the support of terrorist outfits active in north-eastern states".

The issue of Naxalism and the support it may enjoy has come into prominence with the recent arrests of some alleged naxal activists by the Maharashtra Police, which has invited condemnation from opposition parties and rights groups with the BJP stoutly defending the police action.

Besides "Maoism", the party's training guidebook also identifies "forced conversion" as an internal challenge.

It claims that a conspiracy to change the demography of the country has been going on for several years in the guise of "Jihadi" and "Masihi", an apparent reference to proselytizing works of some Christian groups, activities backed by money and muscle power.

"It is a big internal threat to the country. Some external agencies are also involved in conversions and they widely use money and goons for these activities," the manual says.

"The speed of conversion has been so high in some states that it has completely changed their demography. People in such states are extremely agitated over it and that anger may prove to be explosive any time," it adds.

Forced conversion disturbs the atmosphere of brotherhood and social cohesion, the guidebook says, accusing some political parties of either "promoting" conversions or extending "mute support".

Among the economic challenges, it cites the social, economic and caste census of 2015 to say that a big part of the country's population is forced to live below the poverty line.

Blaming the previous Congress governments, it says the 60-year-rule of the opposition in the county rendered over 60 per cent rural population "economically deprived".&nbsp

It says that Maoists, also called Naxals, are 'reportedly conspiring to conduct joint strikes with the support of terrorist outfits active in north-eastern states.'

A Bharatiya Janata Party training guidebook, which is meant to orient its workers and office-bearers to its ideology and views on key issues, says that Maoists in India enjoy "regular support from Pakistan and China", making them a big threat to the country's internal security. It says that Maoists, also called Naxals, are "reportedly conspiring to conduct joint strikes with the support of terrorist outfits active in north-eastern states". The issue of Naxalism and the support it may enjoy has come into prominence with the recent arrests of some alleged naxal activists by the Maharashtra Police, which has invited condemnation from opposition parties and rights groups with the BJP stoutly defending the police action. Besides "Maoism", the party's training guidebook also identifies "forced conversion" as an internal challenge. It claims that a conspiracy to change the demography of the country has been going on for several years in the guise of "Jihadi" and "Masihi", an apparent reference to proselytizing works of some Christian groups, activities backed by money and muscle power. "It is a big internal threat to the country. Some external agencies are also involved in conversions and they widely use money and goons for these activities," the manual says. "The speed of conversion has been so high in some states that it has completely changed their demography. People in such states are extremely agitated over it and that anger may prove to be explosive any time," it adds. Forced conversion disturbs the atmosphere of brotherhood and social cohesion, the guidebook says, accusing some political parties of either "promoting" conversions or extending "mute support". Among the economic challenges, it cites the social, economic and caste census of 2015 to say that a big part of the country's population is forced to live below the poverty line. Blaming the previous Congress governments, it says the 60-year-rule of the opposition in the county rendered over 60 per cent rural population "economically deprived".

BJP training manual calls maoism, forced conversation a threat to India

Discrimination on the basis of religion, caste or gender is unacceptable to any "nationalist" and this approach should be followed by everyone, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said today.

Mr Naidu, who is also the Rajya Sabha Chairman, called for deciding upon a national policy on the need for the Upper House in state legislatures, and urged political parties to evolve a consensus on the code of conduct for their members both inside and outside legislatures.

He made the remarks during the launch of the book 'Moving on...Moving forward: A year in office'. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former prime ministers -- Manmohan Singh and H D Deve Gowda, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Rajya Sabha's Deputy Leader of Opposition Anand Sharma.

Noting that the last session was called the "Session for Social Justice", Mr Naidu said it was important to consider and pass legislations that reflect collective commitment to social justice.

"In order to build a more inclusive society, there is a need to move towards ensuring proportional representation of all groups, especially those which have till now been under represented," he said.

"There is a need to cleanse politics, strengthen parliamentary and governance institutions, give a big push to next level of reforms to harness the entrepreneurial and economic potential, harness the energies of young India, and ensure sustainable and remunerative agriculture," Mr Naidu said.

He also called for upholding the rich traditions of cultural diversity and nationalism.

"Nationalism, according to me -- Bharat Mata ki Jai...it means 'Jai Ho' to all the 130 crore people irrespective of their caste, creed, sex or religion.

"Any discrimination on the basis of religion, any discrimination on the basis of caste, any discrimination on the basis of gender, is not acceptable to any nationalist. That sort of approach should be there among everyone of us. I hope we all move in that direction," Mr Naidu said.

Talking about the issue of political defections, he said the anti-defection laws should be implemented in letter and spirit expeditiously, within three months. "I know that this is absolutely feasible since I could dispose off the petitions that I received within this time frame," Mr Naidu asserted.

The Rajya Sabha chairman in his remarks urged all political parties to evolve a code of conduct for Member of Parliament and lawmakers, both within and outside the Houses for effective functioning of legislatures to restore the confidence of the people in parliamentary institutions.

Voicing concern over the functioning of legislators in the country, he also urged parties to come together, transcending political considerations, on issues of national importance.

Mr Naidu described the book launched today, as a report to the people on his mission and its outcomes during the year since he was sworn in as vice president on August 11 last year.

"While there is cause for a great deal of celebration in the way Indian economy is shaping up and how India's standing in the comity of nations has been steadily going up, I am a little unhappy that our Parliament is not functioning as it should," he said.

The Vice President also said election petitions and criminal cases against political leaders should be decided quickly by special benches of higher courts. He also urged political parties to consider issues concerning women dispassionately to ensure their safety and dignity. He called for ending discrimination against women on the basis of religion and other factors.

Mr Naidu called for reservation for women in all spheres, including legislatures.

Stressing that agriculture is the basic culture of the country, Mr Naidu said, "There is a need for a bias towards farmers in resource allocation to ensure remunerative farming and a robust food security."

Last year, in 60 visits to different parts of the country, including all the seven northeastern states, Mr Naidu said he interacted with the youth, farmers, and scientists, and made an effort to promote public discourse on four key issues of broader concern.

He said the four key issues were the huge untapped demographic dividend, an effective and enabling ecosystem for remunerative farming in the country, orienting scientific and research efforts to better the lives of the people, and enhancing public awareness about rich Indian heritage and inculcating national pride in "our pluralistic, inclusive, harmonious world view".

Mr Naidu also asserted the benefits of reservation should reach everyone. He also expressed his disappointment over the frequent disruptions in Rajya Sabha. "I have not hesitated in recording in the book just now released, my disappointment over the functioning of Rajya Sabha during the first two sessions that I have presided over.

"But I have also referred to the new tidings during the recently concluded Monsoon Session raising hopes. So, there is a hope but we need to stay on course. My earnest endeavour has been to facilitate informed and dignified debates befitting the stature of this hallowed institution," he said.

He made the remarks during the launch of the book 'Moving on...Moving forward: A year in office'. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Discrimination on the basis of religion, caste or gender is unacceptable to any "nationalist" and this approach should be followed by everyone, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said today. Mr Naidu, who is also the Rajya Sabha Chairman, called for deciding upon a national policy on the need for the Upper House in state legislatures, and urged political parties to evolve a consensus on the code of conduct for their members both inside and outside legislatures. He made the remarks during the launch of the book 'Moving on...Moving forward: A year in office'. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former prime ministers -- Manmohan Singh and H D Deve Gowda, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Rajya Sabha's Deputy Leader of Opposition Anand Sharma. Noting that the last session was called the "Session for Social Justice", Mr Naidu said it was important to consider and pass legislations that reflect collective commitment to social justice. "In order to build a more inclusive society, there is a need to move towards ensuring proportional representation of all groups, especially those which have till now been under represented," he said. "There is a need to cleanse politics, strengthen parliamentary and governance institutions, give a big push to next level of reforms to harness the entrepreneurial and economic potential, harness the energies of young India, and ensure sustainable and remunerative agriculture," Mr Naidu said. He also called for upholding the rich traditions of cultural diversity and nationalism. "Nationalism, according to me -- Bharat Mata ki Jai...it means 'Jai Ho' to all the 130 crore people irrespective of their caste, creed, sex or religion. "Any discrimination on the basis of religion, any discrimination on the basis of caste, any discrimination on the basis of gender, is not acceptable to any nationalist. That sort of approach should be there among everyone of us. I hope we all move in that direction," Mr Naidu said. Talking about the issue of political defections, he said the anti-defection laws should be implemented in letter and spirit expeditiously, within three months. "I know that this is absolutely feasible since I could dispose off the petitions that I received within this time frame," Mr Naidu asserted. The Rajya Sabha chairman in his remarks urged all political parties to evolve a code of conduct for Member of Parliament and lawmakers, both within and outside the Houses for effective functioning of legislatures to restore the confidence of the people in parliamentary institutions. Voicing concern over the functioning of legislators in the country, he also urged parties to come together, transcending political considerations, on issues of national importance. Mr Naidu described the book launched today, as a report to the people on his mission and its outcomes during the year since he was sworn in as vice president on August 11 last year. "While there is cause for a great deal of celebration in the way Indian economy is shaping up and how India's standing in the comity of nations has been steadily going up, I am a little unhappy that our Parliament is not functioning as it should," he said. The Vice President also said election petitions and criminal cases against political leaders should be decided quickly by special benches of higher courts. He also urged political parties to consider issues concerning women dispassionately to ensure their safety and dignity. He called for ending discrimination against women on the basis of religion and other factors. Mr Naidu called for reservation for women in all spheres, including legislatures. Stressing that agriculture is the basic culture of the country, Mr Naidu said, "There is a need for a bias towards farmers in resource allocation to ensure remunerative farming and a robust food security." Last year, in 60 visits to different parts of the country, including all the seven northeastern states, Mr Naidu said he interacted with the youth, farmers, and scientists, and made an effort to promote public discourse on four key issues of broader concern. He said the four key issues were the huge untapped demographic dividend, an effective and enabling ecosystem for remunerative farming in the country, orienting scientific and research efforts to better the lives of the people, and enhancing public awareness about rich Indian heritage and inculcating national pride in "our pluralistic, inclusive, harmonious world view". Mr Naidu also asserted the benefits of reservation should reach everyone. He also expressed his disappointment over the frequent disruptions in Rajya Sabha. "I have not hesitated in recording in the book just now released, my disappointment over the functioning of Rajya Sabha during the first two sessions that I have presided over. "But I have also referred to the new tidings during the recently concluded Monsoon Session raising hopes. So, there is a hope but we need to stay on course. My earnest endeavour has been to facilitate informed and dignified debates befitting the stature of this hallowed institution," he said.

Discrimination not acceptable to any nationalist: Venkaiah Naidu

India will take up issues like BSF personnel being attacked by Bangladeshi criminals and those related to cross-border smuggling during a high-level meeting of the border guarding forces of the two countries beginning here tomorrow, a senior official said on Sunday.

As per an official, India and Bangladesh will share updates about movement of Rohingyas in the meeting.

A delegation of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), led by its Director General (DG) Maj Gen Md Shafeenul Islam, has arrived in India to hold bi-annual talks with their counterparts --BSF-- as part of their six-day tour.

The Border Security Force (BSF) side will be led by DG KK Sharma.

"Relations between India and Bangladesh are at an all-time high," a BSF spokesperson said.

"Issues like prevention against attacks on BSF personnel by Bangladeshi criminals, joint efforts to prevent trans-border crimes, action against Indian insurgent groups (operating from the other side) among others are part of the agenda for the DG-level talks that begins tomorrow here," he said.

Issues related to border infrastructure, simultaneous coordinated patrol in vulnerable areas of the border and mutual sharing of information are also part of the BSF subjects, the spokesperson said.

A senior official told PTI that the two sides will also share updates with regard to the movement of the Rohingyas along the 4,096-km frontier they share.

The Dhaka headquartered BGB is expected to take up issues like smuggling of various types of drugs/narcotics from India to Bangladesh and arrest or apprehension of Bangladeshi nationals by the BSF among others, the spokesperson said.

A joint record of discussion will also be signed between the two forces on September 7, he added.

This is the 47th DG-level conference between the two sides since it began in 1975.

The last time the two forces met for such a meeting was in April this year in Dhaka.&nbsp

A delegation of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), led by its Director General (DG) Maj Gen Md Shafeenul Islam, has arrived in India to hold bi-annual talks with their counterparts --BSF-- as part of their six-day tour.

India will take up issues like BSF personnel being attacked by Bangladeshi criminals and those related to cross-border smuggling during a high-level meeting of the border guarding forces of the two countries beginning here tomorrow, a senior official said on Sunday. As per an official, India and Bangladesh will share updates about movement of Rohingyas in the meeting. A delegation of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), led by its Director General (DG) Maj Gen Md Shafeenul Islam, has arrived in India to hold bi-annual talks with their counterparts --BSF-- as part of their six-day tour. The Border Security Force (BSF) side will be led by DG KK Sharma. "Relations between India and Bangladesh are at an all-time high," a BSF spokesperson said. "Issues like prevention against attacks on BSF personnel by Bangladeshi criminals, joint efforts to prevent trans-border crimes, action against Indian insurgent groups (operating from the other side) among others are part of the agenda for the DG-level talks that begins tomorrow here," he said. Issues related to border infrastructure, simultaneous coordinated patrol in vulnerable areas of the border and mutual sharing of information are also part of the BSF subjects, the spokesperson said. A senior official told PTI that the two sides will also share updates with regard to the movement of the Rohingyas along the 4,096-km frontier they share. The Dhaka headquartered BGB is expected to take up issues like smuggling of various types of drugs/narcotics from India to Bangladesh and arrest or apprehension of Bangladeshi nationals by the BSF among others, the spokesperson said. A joint record of discussion will also be signed between the two forces on September 7, he added. This is the 47th DG-level conference between the two sides since it began in 1975. The last time the two forces met for such a meeting was in April this year in Dhaka.

India, Bangladesh border forces to hold high-level talks from tomorrow in Delhi

Bodies of 14 newborns undergoing various stages of decomposition were found wrapped in plastic bags in a vacant land in Haridebpur area in southern Kolkata during a cleaning programme on Sunday, police said.

The bodies wrapped in plastic bags were found on the grassy land on Raja Rammohan Roy Sarani under the Haridebpur Police station area when labourers were cleaning it, a senior officer of Kolkata Police said.

"Some abortion racket operating nearby could be behind it," he said.

Some of the bodies appeared to be in a semi-decomposed state, while a few were fully decomposed, the officer said.

"We have no clue where from they (the bodies) have come. Going by circumstantial shreds of evidence, it seems that they were dumped there as the land was lying abandoned," the officer said.

City Mayor Sovan Chatterjee and Commissioner of Police Rajeev Kumar have reached the spot on receiving information.&nbsp

The bodies wrapped in plastic bags were found on the grassy land on Raja Rammohan Roy Sarani under the Haridebpur Police station area when labourers were cleaning it, a senior officer of Kolkata Police said.

Bodies of 14 newborns undergoing various stages of decomposition were found wrapped in plastic bags in a vacant land in Haridebpur area in southern Kolkata during a cleaning programme on Sunday, police said. The bodies wrapped in plastic bags were found on the grassy land on Raja Rammohan Roy Sarani under the Haridebpur Police station area when labourers were cleaning it, a senior officer of Kolkata Police said. "Some abortion racket operating nearby could be behind it," he said. Some of the bodies appeared to be in a semi-decomposed state, while a few were fully decomposed, the officer said. "We have no clue where from they (the bodies) have come. Going by circumstantial shreds of evidence, it seems that they were dumped there as the land was lying abandoned," the officer said. City Mayor Sovan Chatterjee and Commissioner of Police Rajeev Kumar have reached the spot on receiving information.

Kolkata: 14 newborns bodies found in vacant land in Haridebpur area

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday called for greater support by those engaged in the agriculture sector.

"Finance Minister is here, he may not like what I am saying as he has to take care of everybody, but there has to be bias towards agriculture in coming days, otherwise people will leave agriculture as it's not remunerative," he said while expressing concern at the depleting agriculture sector. He was speaking at the launch of his new book "Moving On, Moving Forward: A Year In Office" here.

Expressing unhappiness over functioning of Parliament, Naidu urged all political parties to come together on issues of national importance. "I am little unhappy that Parliament is not functioning as it should. On all other counts, things are moving, World Bank, ADB, World Economic Forum, whatever ratings they are giving is heartening. All Indians should be proud of whatever is happening on the economic front," he said.

The book launch event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, former prime ministers Manmohan Singh and HD Deve Gowda and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.&nbsp

Expressing unhappiness over functioning of Parliament, Naidu urged all political parties to come together on issues of national importance.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday called for greater support by those engaged in the agriculture sector. "Finance Minister is here, he may not like what I am saying as he has to take care of everybody, but there has to be bias towards agriculture in coming days, otherwise people will leave agriculture as it's not remunerative," he said while expressing concern at the depleting agriculture sector. He was speaking at the launch of his new book "Moving On, Moving Forward: A Year In Office" here. Expressing unhappiness over functioning of Parliament, Naidu urged all political parties to come together on issues of national importance. "I am little unhappy that Parliament is not functioning as it should. On all other counts, things are moving, World Bank, ADB, World Economic Forum, whatever ratings they are giving is heartening. All Indians should be proud of whatever is happening on the economic front," he said. The book launch event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, former prime ministers Manmohan Singh and HD Deve Gowda and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

VP Naidu calls for greater support in agriculture sector

An investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against an Indian national employed in the UN agency for gender equality and women empowerment has been completed and steps have been taken to initiate "appropriate action" against him.

While the Office of Audit and Investigation of UNDP did not identify the Indian national, sexual misconduct allegations were levelled last month against Ravi Karkara, Senior Advisor on Strategic Partnerships and Advocacy to the Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director at UN Women.

UN Women, in a statement dated August 24, said its Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has "taken immediate steps to initiate appropriate action.''

"She is committed to ensuring that UN Women focuses on a survivor-centred approach in concluding this matter as quickly as possible," the statement said.

It added that the Executive Director appointed earlier this year Purna Sen as Executive Coordinator on Sexual Harassment to engage with survivors so that they are supported in a range of areas.

"While accountability is indispensable, UN Women stands ready to support victims through counselling, psychosocial support and legal assistance," the UN Women statement said.

Ms Sen had told PTI earlier that zero tolerance to sexual exploitation and abuse must be strictly followed and practiced and that those who show the courage to speak out against abuses should not feel judged.

She also added that the UN agency wants to change the dynamics and culture in which men and women feel that their position of seniority and authority entitles them sexually to other more junior staff, interns and young people.

The UN Women statement did not give details about the nature of "appropriate action" being taken.

According to the agency's legal policy, several disciplinary and non-disciplinary proceedings such as written censure, loss of one or more steps in grade, dismissal or administrative leave can be imposed on the individual depending on the nature and gravity of the misconduct in which the staff member has engaged.

Ravi Karkara was under investigation for sexual misconduct after at least eight men had accused him of using his prestige and position to sexually harass them, five sources with knowledge of the investigation had told Newsweek.

A UN spokesperson had also confirmed to PTI last month that the individual under investigation was Ravi Karkara. As reports of the allegations against Ravi Karkara surfaced early last month, a UN Women spokesperson had said the agency "cannot confirm nor deny the subject's name" and it cannot comment on any specifics of the case, as that could harm the investigation and disciplinary process.

UN Women had said it aimed to be as transparent as possible while ensuring that the integrity of the investigative, and disciplinary process, if any, is safeguarded.

UN Women had said back in December 2017 that it received allegations of sexual misconduct involving one of its staff members, again not naming Ravi Karkara.

According to Newsweek, Steve Lee, a 25-year-old policy activist, who has addressed the United Nations and was a member of the Major Group for Children and Youth, is among the men accusing Ravi Karkara of misconduct.

Mr Lee said he first met Ravi Karkara in 2009 when he was a 16-year-old delegate for UNICEF. In 2016, Mr Lee said Ravi Karkara invited him to join a policy working group he co-chaired.

He alleges that Karkara asked him "inappropriate sexual questions", and during one instance he grabbed Lee by his genitals through his pants, according to the Newsweek report.

"He does this with a lot of young men, and I don't really think it's sexual favours he's looking for," Mr Lee said in the report.

"He enjoys the fact that he's at a position of such high authority that he can do this and they can't really do anything about it."

The Newsweek article added that two of Ravi Karkara's former subordinates said this was a common occurrence where he followed minute developments in young staffers' social media profiles, demanding credit and gratitude, snapping at them if he was not invited to an event, thanked on a program, mentioned in an article or named to a panel. He would grab their phone or device and log in to their email, social media or internet search histories, Mr Lee said.

According to his profile, Ravi Karkara has worked with UN Women, UNICEF, Save the Children among others.

UN Women, in a statement dated August 24, said its Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has 'taken immediate steps to initiate appropriate action.'

An investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against an Indian national employed in the UN agency for gender equality and women empowerment has been completed and steps have been taken to initiate "appropriate action" against him. While the Office of Audit and Investigation of UNDP did not identify the Indian national, sexual misconduct allegations were levelled last month against Ravi Karkara, Senior Advisor on Strategic Partnerships and Advocacy to the Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director at UN Women. UN Women, in a statement dated August 24, said its Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has "taken immediate steps to initiate appropriate action.'' "She is committed to ensuring that UN Women focuses on a survivor-centred approach in concluding this matter as quickly as possible," the statement said. It added that the Executive Director appointed earlier this year Purna Sen as Executive Coordinator on Sexual Harassment to engage with survivors so that they are supported in a range of areas. "While accountability is indispensable, UN Women stands ready to support victims through counselling, psychosocial support and legal assistance," the UN Women statement said. Ms Sen had told PTI earlier that zero tolerance to sexual exploitation and abuse must be strictly followed and practiced and that those who show the courage to speak out against abuses should not feel judged. She also added that the UN agency wants to change the dynamics and culture in which men and women feel that their position of seniority and authority entitles them sexually to other more junior staff, interns and young people. The UN Women statement did not give details about the nature of "appropriate action" being taken. According to the agency's legal policy, several disciplinary and non-disciplinary proceedings such as written censure, loss of one or more steps in grade, dismissal or administrative leave can be imposed on the individual depending on the nature and gravity of the misconduct in which the staff member has engaged. Ravi Karkara was under investigation for sexual misconduct after at least eight men had accused him of using his prestige and position to sexually harass them, five sources with knowledge of the investigation had told Newsweek. A UN spokesperson had also confirmed to PTI last month that the individual under investigation was Ravi Karkara. As reports of the allegations against Ravi Karkara surfaced early last month, a UN Women spokesperson had said the agency "cannot confirm nor deny the subject's name" and it cannot comment on any specifics of the case, as that could harm the investigation and disciplinary process. UN Women had said it aimed to be as transparent as possible while ensuring that the integrity of the investigative, and disciplinary process, if any, is safeguarded. UN Women had said back in December 2017 that it received allegations of sexual misconduct involving one of its staff members, again not naming Ravi Karkara. According to Newsweek, Steve Lee, a 25-year-old policy activist, who has addressed the United Nations and was a member of the Major Group for Children and Youth, is among the men accusing Ravi Karkara of misconduct. Mr Lee said he first met Ravi Karkara in 2009 when he was a 16-year-old delegate for UNICEF. In 2016, Mr Lee said Ravi Karkara invited him to join a policy working group he co-chaired. He alleges that Karkara asked him "inappropriate sexual questions", and during one instance he grabbed Lee by his genitals through his pants, according to the Newsweek report. "He does this with a lot of young men, and I don't really think it's sexual favours he's looking for," Mr Lee said in the report. "He enjoys the fact that he's at a position of such high authority that he can do this and they can't really do anything about it." The Newsweek article added that two of Ravi Karkara's former subordinates said this was a common occurrence where he followed minute developments in young staffers' social media profiles, demanding credit and gratitude, snapping at them if he was not invited to an event, thanked on a program, mentioned in an article or named to a panel. He would grab their phone or device and log in to their email, social media or internet search histories, Mr Lee said. According to his profile, Ravi Karkara has worked with UN Women, UNICEF, Save the Children among others.

Indian at UN gender equality agency faces action for 'sexual misconduct'

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