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The Women and Child Development Ministry has ordered social audit of over 9,000 child care institutions across the country in the next 60 days, a senior official said today, after reports of alleged sexual abuse of minors at shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh surfaced.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been tasked with carrying out the audit and it has been asked to submit its report to the ministry in two months, he said.

The audit would also take into account the condition of children living in these institutions as well as background checks of the NGOs running these child care institutions.

There are a total of 9,462 child care institutions in the country, out of which 7,109 are registered with the government. Though most of the funds to run these child care institutions are provided by the government, the states generally find NGOs to run these institutions.

Authorities have been jolted into action after reports this month uncovered the sexual abuse of more than 30 girls at a state-funded shelter in Bihar state.

Police this week detained five people over alleged abuse at a shelter in Uttar Pradesh state where 24 girls were rescued after one escaped to tell investigators of mistreatment at the home.

Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi has urged states to have a single, large facility for children to prevent their "abuse and misuse" by NGOs.

She suggested that a single, large facility in states will make it easier for authorities to check "abuse and misuse" of children by NGOs, who run the shelter homes funded by state governments. She said adoption and skill development programmes at a single facility would be much easier.

The Union minister said these homes run by NGOs should only provide temporary shelter to women, girls and children in distress only after clearance by the Child Welfare Committee.

She said her ministry "would be happy" to fund the construction of a single, central facility in each state under the Nirbhaya Fund and then hand it over to the respective state government.

"For the past two years, I have been writing to MPs, asking them to inspect shelter homes in their localities. We have even got audits done by NGOs at shelter homes and they didn't report anything unusual which means they have not done it thoroughly," she said.

In a letter written by her in August, 2017, Gandhi had noted that there were reports of poor living conditions as well as malpractices in these homes.

She had written to the MPs that the ministry has given "a detailed standard operating procedure and specified day-to-day monitoring mechanisms" which should be followed and urged MPs to inspect child care institutions in their respective states.

The shelter home case was uncovered around three months ago after a report by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in April revealed that the inmates were allegedly sexually abused.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been tasked with carrying out the audit and it has been asked to submit its report to the ministry in two months, he said.

The Women and Child Development Ministry has ordered social audit of over 9,000 child care institutions across the country in the next 60 days, a senior official said today, after reports of alleged sexual abuse of minors at shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh surfaced. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been tasked with carrying out the audit and it has been asked to submit its report to the ministry in two months, he said. The audit would also take into account the condition of children living in these institutions as well as background checks of the NGOs running these child care institutions. There are a total of 9,462 child care institutions in the country, out of which 7,109 are registered with the government. Though most of the funds to run these child care institutions are provided by the government, the states generally find NGOs to run these institutions. Authorities have been jolted into action after reports this month uncovered the sexual abuse of more than 30 girls at a state-funded shelter in Bihar state. Police this week detained five people over alleged abuse at a shelter in Uttar Pradesh state where 24 girls were rescued after one escaped to tell investigators of mistreatment at the home. Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi has urged states to have a single, large facility for children to prevent their "abuse and misuse" by NGOs. She suggested that a single, large facility in states will make it easier for authorities to check "abuse and misuse" of children by NGOs, who run the shelter homes funded by state governments. She said adoption and skill development programmes at a single facility would be much easier. The Union minister said these homes run by NGOs should only provide temporary shelter to women, girls and children in distress only after clearance by the Child Welfare Committee. She said her ministry "would be happy" to fund the construction of a single, central facility in each state under the Nirbhaya Fund and then hand it over to the respective state government. "For the past two years, I have been writing to MPs, asking them to inspect shelter homes in their localities. We have even got audits done by NGOs at shelter homes and they didn't report anything unusual which means they have not done it thoroughly," she said. In a letter written by her in August, 2017, Gandhi had noted that there were reports of poor living conditions as well as malpractices in these homes. She had written to the MPs that the ministry has given "a detailed standard operating procedure and specified day-to-day monitoring mechanisms" which should be followed and urged MPs to inspect child care institutions in their respective states. The shelter home case was uncovered around three months ago after a report by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in April revealed that the inmates were allegedly sexually abused.

Centre orders audit of over 9,000 child care homes in 60 Days: Official

India's premier investigation agency the <a href="http://wionews.com/world/cambridge-analytica-shutting-down-following-facebook-crisis-134282">Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today</a> initiated a preliminary inquiry on data theft of Indians from Facebook by British firms Cambridge Analytica(CA) & Global Science Research.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/will-use-facebook-data-to-influence-voters-cambridge-analytica-told-congress-party-denies--131220">Also Read:&nbspWill use Facebook data to influence voters: Cambridge Analytica told Congress</a>

Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had told the Rajya Sabha last month that the CBI would be investigating the case related to alleged manipulation of electoral process in the 2014 general elections.

The Indian government had sent two notices to Cambridge Analytica and had sought reply by May 10th.&nbsp

The government had also sent a notice to Facebook on April 5th, 2018 and informed the social networking site that data of estimated 5,62, 455 Indians may have been used in an unauthorised manner by CA through 335 installations of the App developed by GSR and installed by Indians.

"Cambridge Analytica has denied that data from Indians was breached, but Facebook has made a contradictory statement," Prasad had said in the Rajya Sabha.

Facebook had confirmed over 87 million accounts were breached by the London-based firm.

In April, Cambridge Analytica (CA) had said that it will investigate all its activities around the world, including in India. However soon after the firm filed for bankruptcy and shutdown.

"Rest assured, India, Kenya, Nigeria, all the other countries that SCL has been working in historically, will be investigated and reported on as part of the independent investigation," a spokesman of the firm had declared.

Whistleblower Christopher Wylie had said the company had worked "extensively" in India and named the Congress as one of its clients. He had also named other parties including the Janta Dal (United) as a client during the 2010 Bihar elections.&nbsp

Wylie claimed Cambridge Analytica had a database on "over 600 districts and 7 lakh villages, which is constantly being updated".&nbsp 
&nbsp

Facebook had confirmed over 87 million accounts were breached by the London-based firm

India's premier investigation agency the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today initiated a preliminary inquiry on data theft of Indians from Facebook by British firms Cambridge Analytica(CA) & Global Science Research. Also Read:&nbspWill use Facebook data to influence voters: Cambridge Analytica told Congress Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had told the Rajya Sabha last month that the CBI would be investigating the case related to alleged manipulation of electoral process in the 2014 general elections. The Indian government had sent two notices to Cambridge Analytica and had sought reply by May 10th. The government had also sent a notice to Facebook on April 5th, 2018 and informed the social networking site that data of estimated 5,62, 455 Indians may have been used in an unauthorised manner by CA through 335 installations of the App developed by GSR and installed by Indians. "Cambridge Analytica has denied that data from Indians was breached, but Facebook has made a contradictory statement," Prasad had said in the Rajya Sabha. Facebook had confirmed over 87 million accounts were breached by the London-based firm. In April, Cambridge Analytica (CA) had said that it will investigate all its activities around the world, including in India. However soon after the firm filed for bankruptcy and shutdown. "Rest assured, India, Kenya, Nigeria, all the other countries that SCL has been working in historically, will be investigated and reported on as part of the independent investigation," a spokesman of the firm had declared. Whistleblower Christopher Wylie had said the company had worked "extensively" in India and named the Congress as one of its clients. He had also named other parties including the Janta Dal (United) as a client during the 2010 Bihar elections. Wylie claimed Cambridge Analytica had a database on "over 600 districts and 7 lakh villages, which is constantly being updated".

CBI begins investigation of data theft by Cambridge Analytica, Global Science Research

Non-Resident Indians cannot file RTI applications to seek governance-related information from departments of the central government the Lok Sabha was informed today.

"Only citizens of India have the right to seek information under the provisions of Right to Information Act, 2005. Non-Resident Indians are not eligible to file RTI applications," Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said in a written reply.

He said subject to the provisions of the Act, the citizens of India can file online application under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

"Currently, systems of 2,200 public authorities have been aligned to receive, process and reply to online RTIs from the applicants," the minister said.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>Singh said any applicant can visit the portal and select the desired ministry or department under the central government and file an online RTI application.

A detailed user manual and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available on the website to help in filing the application, he said.

"Applicant can pay the requisite fee through online payment in this portal and submit the RTI application," the minister said.

Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said in a written reply that only citizens of India had the right to seek governance-related information.

Non-Resident Indians cannot file RTI applications to seek governance-related information from departments of the central government the Lok Sabha was informed today. "Only citizens of India have the right to seek information under the provisions of Right to Information Act, 2005. Non-Resident Indians are not eligible to file RTI applications," Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said in a written reply. He said subject to the provisions of the Act, the citizens of India can file online application under the Right to Information Act, 2005. "Currently, systems of 2,200 public authorities have been aligned to receive, process and reply to online RTIs from the applicants," the minister said. Singh said any applicant can visit the portal and select the desired ministry or department under the central government and file an online RTI application. A detailed user manual and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available on the website to help in filing the application, he said. "Applicant can pay the requisite fee through online payment in this portal and submit the RTI application," the minister said.

NRIs not eligible to seek information through RTI: Government

An engineering graduate-turned-terrorist has been short-listed for recruitment as sub-inspector in Jammu and Kashmir Police, four days after he was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday released the short-list of 2,060 candidates and at the serial number 1913 is Khurshid Ahmad Malik, a resident of Arabal villager of Pulwama district of south Kashmir.

Militant for just three days, Khursheed, a BTech graduate, had joined Al Badr on July 31 after he went missing from his home at Pulwama.&nbsp;

He was killed along with is associate Riyaz Ahmad Dar on August 3 in an encounter at Dursoo village in Dangiwacha area of apple rich town of Sopore.

Khursheed, 26, had completed his BTech from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University of Jammu last year. A brilliant student throughout his career he had cracked GATE and was intending to write exam for Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) — a J&K version of the civil services.

He was killed 48 hours after he went missing even as his family had made passionate appeals first asking him to return and then pleading him to surrender after they came to know he was trapped by the forces in Sopore.

Khurshid Malik and Riyaz Ahmed Dar, a resident of Naseer Abad Chinkipora Sopore -- affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit -- were killed in the encounter.

Khurshid Ahmad Malik was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district.

An engineering graduate-turned-terrorist has been short-listed for recruitment as sub-inspector in Jammu and Kashmir Police, four days after he was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district. Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday released the short-list of 2,060 candidates and at the serial number 1913 is Khurshid Ahmad Malik, a resident of Arabal villager of Pulwama district of south Kashmir. Militant for just three days, Khursheed, a BTech graduate, had joined Al Badr on July 31 after he went missing from his home at Pulwama. He was killed along with is associate Riyaz Ahmad Dar on August 3 in an encounter at Dursoo village in Dangiwacha area of apple rich town of Sopore. Khursheed, 26, had completed his BTech from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University of Jammu last year. A brilliant student throughout his career he had cracked GATE and was intending to write exam for Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) — a J&K version of the civil services. He was killed 48 hours after he went missing even as his family had made passionate appeals first asking him to return and then pleading him to surrender after they came to know he was trapped by the forces in Sopore. Khurshid Malik and Riyaz Ahmed Dar, a resident of Naseer Abad Chinkipora Sopore -- affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit -- were killed in the encounter.

Kashmir engineer-turned-terrorist shortlisted for post of sub-inspector

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday did not grant any relief to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sonia-rahul-gandhi-under-i-t-scanner-in-national-herald-case-15496">National Herald case</a>.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had earlier challenged&nbsp;Income Tax authority's order to reopen his tax assessment related to the National Herald and Young India transactions.

In March, the Delhi High Court today directed Young Indian Pvt Ltd, in which Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi are major stakeholders, to deposit Rs 10 crore in the Rs 249.15 crore income tax proceedings against it.

The Income Tax department informed the High Court that the AICC gave Rs 99 crores to Associate Journal Ltd and added that Rahul willfully chose not to disclose that he held the director's post at Young India.

To which the court said that it'll determine whether he was under an obligation to disclose these details or not.

However, on the other hand, the Congress President's lawyer asserted that Rahul did not receive any income from the source, hence he is not liable for any tax.

Rahul's counsel also asked the Court to restrain media from publishing the matter, however, the High Court refused to stay media reporting.

BJP leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-herald-case-subramanian-swamy-submits-it-order-against-rahul-sonia-gandhi-30158">Subramanian Swamy</a> has produced an IT order in court against the Young Indian company majorly owned by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. The order has reportedly cancelled Young India's tax exemption certificate and asked the company to pay tax on income gain of Rs 414 crore.&nbsp;

In their response to Swamy's complaint in connection with the National Herald case, Sonia Gandhi and vice-president Rahul Gandhi stated that the application filed by the BJP leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-rahul-respond-to-national-herald-case-call-for-its-dismissal-24572">was not bonafide</a>.

Calling the complaint a "lifeless case" they said that the application has been filled with the sole object of "delaying the proceedings".

Rahul Gandhi had earlier challenged Rahul had challenged Income Tax authority's order to reopen his tax assessment related to the National Herald and Young India transactions.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday did not grant any relief to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with the National Herald case. Rahul Gandhi had earlier challenged Income Tax authority's order to reopen his tax assessment related to the National Herald and Young India transactions. In March, the Delhi High Court today directed Young Indian Pvt Ltd, in which Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi are major stakeholders, to deposit Rs 10 crore in the Rs 249.15 crore income tax proceedings against it. The Income Tax department informed the High Court that the AICC gave Rs 99 crores to Associate Journal Ltd and added that Rahul willfully chose not to disclose that he held the director's post at Young India. To which the court said that it'll determine whether he was under an obligation to disclose these details or not. However, on the other hand, the Congress President's lawyer asserted that Rahul did not receive any income from the source, hence he is not liable for any tax. Rahul's counsel also asked the Court to restrain media from publishing the matter, however, the High Court refused to stay media reporting. BJP leader Subramanian Swamy has produced an IT order in court against the Young Indian company majorly owned by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. The order has reportedly cancelled Young India's tax exemption certificate and asked the company to pay tax on income gain of Rs 414 crore. In their response to Swamy's complaint in connection with the National Herald case, Sonia Gandhi and vice-president Rahul Gandhi stated that the application filed by the BJP leader was not bonafide. Calling the complaint a "lifeless case" they said that the application has been filled with the sole object of "delaying the proceedings".

National Herald case: No relief for Rahul Gandhi

Nine fire tenders, two foam tenders, and two jumbo tankers were rushed to the spot to douse the fire.

Fire breaks out at Bharat Petroleum plant in Chembur

In a landmark order, the Delhi high court on Wednesday struck down the Prevention of Beggars Act 1959 that criminalises begging in the national capital. The seemingly colonial era law seemed to found a justifiable end today.

The bench of acting chief justice Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar passed an order asking the Delhi government to bring in alternative legislation to further prevent any incidents of forced begging.

In the past, the Delhi high court had pulled up the Centre after it had failed to amend the law criminalising begging and rehabilitate the beggars. The bench said that the provisions treat begging as an offence are unconstitutional and must be struck down.

On May 16, the court had asked how begging could be an offence in a country where the government was unable to provide food or jobs.

The high court was considering two PILs seeking to decriminalise begging.

The central government had said there were sufficient checks and balances in the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act which criminalises begging.

Currently, there is no central law on begging and destitution and most states have adopted the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, which criminalises begging, or have modelled their laws on it.

Currently, there is no central law on begging and destitution and most states have adopted the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959.

In a landmark order, the Delhi high court on Wednesday struck down the Prevention of Beggars Act 1959 that criminalises begging in the national capital. The seemingly colonial era law seemed to found a justifiable end today. The bench of acting chief justice Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar passed an order asking the Delhi government to bring in alternative legislation to further prevent any incidents of forced begging. In the past, the Delhi high court had pulled up the Centre after it had failed to amend the law criminalising begging and rehabilitate the beggars. The bench said that the provisions treat begging as an offence are unconstitutional and must be struck down. On May 16, the court had asked how begging could be an offence in a country where the government was unable to provide food or jobs. The high court was considering two PILs seeking to decriminalise begging. The central government had said there were sufficient checks and balances in the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act which criminalises begging. Currently, there is no central law on begging and destitution and most states have adopted the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, which criminalises begging, or have modelled their laws on it.

Delhi high court decriminalises begging in national capital

The Centre on Wednesday defended the adultery law in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

The court is hearing a petition seeking the decriminalisation of Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code (Adultery Provision).&nbsp;

India's adultery law states that: "Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who is and whom he knows or has reason to believe to be the wife of another man, without the consent or connivance of that man, such sexual intercourse not amounting to the offence of rape, is guilty of the offence of adultery, and shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both. In such case the wife shall not be punishable as an abettor."&nbsp;

In other words, only the man is punishable under the law, not the woman.&nbsp;

Defending the law, Additional Solicitor General Pinki Anand told the Supreme Court that "nobody should go by what happens in Western countries or other societies".&nbsp;

Interestingly, the adultery law, like much of Indian law, is a remnant of Victorian-era law handed down to the country by the British.&nbsp;

England itself has dropped the adultery law from its statute books.&nbsp;

India's adultery law punishes only the man having sexual intercourse with a married woman, not the woman.

The Centre on Wednesday defended the adultery law in the Supreme Court. The court is hearing a petition seeking the decriminalisation of Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code (Adultery Provision). India's adultery law states that: "Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who is and whom he knows or has reason to believe to be the wife of another man, without the consent or connivance of that man, such sexual intercourse not amounting to the offence of rape, is guilty of the offence of adultery, and shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both. In such case the wife shall not be punishable as an abettor." In other words, only the man is punishable under the law, not the woman. Defending the law, Additional Solicitor General Pinki Anand told the Supreme Court that "nobody should go by what happens in Western countries or other societies". Interestingly, the adultery law, like much of Indian law, is a remnant of Victorian-era law handed down to the country by the British. England itself has dropped the adultery law from its statute books.

Govt defends adultery law in SC, says should not go by 'what happens in western countries'

I have only one personal recollection of a close look at Muthuvel Karunanidhi, and that was at the residence of former Prime Minister Vishwanath Pratap Singh in 1996. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader had turned up at Motilal Nehru Marg to urge VP to become the Prime Minister of India as the consensus candidate of the freshly minted United Front. We the reporters were chasing them all to figure out who would rule India next.

Singh turned the request down in a morning of few words and embarrassing silences. The new Lok Sabha was a hung one, and a minority government supported by the Congress was the only way to keep out the BJP.

Mobile phones had arrived only a few months earlier in India. As the story I have heard from a journalistic colleague goes, VP switched off his mobile phone in the afternoon, crossed the Yamuna to the other side of Delhi and switched on his handset again to tell those putting pressure on him to elect HD Deve Gowda instead - and switched off his handset again. Karunanidhi and Co obliged, and Deve Gowda became an unlikely Prime Minister of India.

What is not easily realised, known or celebrated is the fact that Karunanidhi, who died on Tuesday at the age of 94, was more than a leader of Tamilians or Tamil Nadu. He contributed to the shaping of national politics in many ways, not the least of which was the fact that six prime ministers came to occupy their thrones because of him or owe their power to the support he provided at a crucial juncture in coalition or parliamentary support. These were HD Deve Gowda, Inder Kumar Gujral, VP Singh, Manmohan Singh, Atal Behari Vajpayee and above all, Indira Gandhi.&nbsp;

Notably, Karunanidhi has been probably the only Indian leader who has bridged the gap between India's warring political fronts - one led by Congress, the other by the BJP and the one struggling to beat them both, the Third Front with a Left component.

In that sense, you could call Karunanidhi as a serial kingmaker on the lines of serial entrepreneurs, though the tag of a kingmaker is usually applied to the other big Tamil Nadu later, Kumaraswamy Kamaraj, who played a key role in the installation of Indira Gandhi as India's Prime Minister by manipulating the dynamics of the Congress Party in 1966.

What is less known is that Karunanidhi's DMK played a crucial role in the long and powerful political life of Indira Gandhi. DMK was a supporter of her minority government following a split in the Congress party. Karunanidhi later went on record a decade ago to say that it was he who suggested to Mrs Gandhi in 1969 that banks should be nationalised resulting in 14 banks being turned into the public sector, resulting in huge political gains for Mrs Gandhi over the next year and a landslide majority in the general elections that took place in 1971.

The DMK and the Congress fell out later and the split in the Dravidian party with the formation of the AIADMK under the late MG Ramachandran kicked off a new era in Tamil Nadu politics. The DMK re-emerged in national politics as part of the anti-Congress National Front under VP Singh in 1989-90. The DMK did not win any seats in the 1989 Lok Sabha elections but was a component of the winning alliance. Later, the DMK was part of the United Front under Deve Gowda and Gujral in the 1996-98 period.

Things took a strange turn again in 1999 when the DMK crossed sides and aligned with the BJP under Atal Behari Vajpayee. Though known to be a secularist and an atheist, Karunanidhi chose to align with the party associated with Hindutva. In his own words "It is not the BJP that matters but the leader who is heading it.".

The BJP and the DMK fell out again and the Congress under Dr Manmohan Singh led the United Progressive Alliance that ruled India from 2004 to 2014 with DMK as a key component. DMK was powerful enough to be at the centre of the 2G spectrum scandal that played a role in the electoral defeat of the Congress to the BJP led by Narendra Modi.

Karunanidhi's flexible attitude and his way with words helped him straddle ideological differences while holding his own in Tamil Nadu. There were many ups and downs and several grey areas in his long political life, but this much can be said: he integrated sectarian Tamil politics into the national mainstream, choosing to be an opponent and a supporter at will, using his characteristically shrewd mix of pragmatism and creativity.

(Madhavan Narayan&nbsp;is a senior journalist)

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/karunanidhi-shaped-national-politics-he-was-the-true-kingmaker-behind-6-indian-prime-ministers-2131402.html">original article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Karunanidhi was also probably the only leader who has allied with the Congress, BJP, Third Front and the Left.

I have only one personal recollection of a close look at Muthuvel Karunanidhi, and that was at the residence of former Prime Minister Vishwanath Pratap Singh in 1996. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader had turned up at Motilal Nehru Marg to urge VP to become the Prime Minister of India as the consensus candidate of the freshly minted United Front. We the reporters were chasing them all to figure out who would rule India next. Singh turned the request down in a morning of few words and embarrassing silences. The new Lok Sabha was a hung one, and a minority government supported by the Congress was the only way to keep out the BJP. Mobile phones had arrived only a few months earlier in India. As the story I have heard from a journalistic colleague goes, VP switched off his mobile phone in the afternoon, crossed the Yamuna to the other side of Delhi and switched on his handset again to tell those putting pressure on him to elect HD Deve Gowda instead - and switched off his handset again. Karunanidhi and Co obliged, and Deve Gowda became an unlikely Prime Minister of India. What is not easily realised, known or celebrated is the fact that Karunanidhi, who died on Tuesday at the age of 94, was more than a leader of Tamilians or Tamil Nadu. He contributed to the shaping of national politics in many ways, not the least of which was the fact that six prime ministers came to occupy their thrones because of him or owe their power to the support he provided at a crucial juncture in coalition or parliamentary support. These were HD Deve Gowda, Inder Kumar Gujral, VP Singh, Manmohan Singh, Atal Behari Vajpayee and above all, Indira Gandhi. Notably, Karunanidhi has been probably the only Indian leader who has bridged the gap between India's warring political fronts - one led by Congress, the other by the BJP and the one struggling to beat them both, the Third Front with a Left component. In that sense, you could call Karunanidhi as a serial kingmaker on the lines of serial entrepreneurs, though the tag of a kingmaker is usually applied to the other big Tamil Nadu later, Kumaraswamy Kamaraj, who played a key role in the installation of Indira Gandhi as India's Prime Minister by manipulating the dynamics of the Congress Party in 1966. What is less known is that Karunanidhi's DMK played a crucial role in the long and powerful political life of Indira Gandhi. DMK was a supporter of her minority government following a split in the Congress party. Karunanidhi later went on record a decade ago to say that it was he who suggested to Mrs Gandhi in 1969 that banks should be nationalised resulting in 14 banks being turned into the public sector, resulting in huge political gains for Mrs Gandhi over the next year and a landslide majority in the general elections that took place in 1971. The DMK and the Congress fell out later and the split in the Dravidian party with the formation of the AIADMK under the late MG Ramachandran kicked off a new era in Tamil Nadu politics. The DMK re-emerged in national politics as part of the anti-Congress National Front under VP Singh in 1989-90. The DMK did not win any seats in the 1989 Lok Sabha elections but was a component of the winning alliance. Later, the DMK was part of the United Front under Deve Gowda and Gujral in the 1996-98 period. Things took a strange turn again in 1999 when the DMK crossed sides and aligned with the BJP under Atal Behari Vajpayee. Though known to be a secularist and an atheist, Karunanidhi chose to align with the party associated with Hindutva. In his own words "It is not the BJP that matters but the leader who is heading it.". The BJP and the DMK fell out again and the Congress under Dr Manmohan Singh led the United Progressive Alliance that ruled India from 2004 to 2014 with DMK as a key component. DMK was powerful enough to be at the centre of the 2G spectrum scandal that played a role in the electoral defeat of the Congress to the BJP led by Narendra Modi. Karunanidhi's flexible attitude and his way with words helped him straddle ideological differences while holding his own in Tamil Nadu. There were many ups and downs and several grey areas in his long political life, but this much can be said: he integrated sectarian Tamil politics into the national mainstream, choosing to be an opponent and a supporter at will, using his characteristically shrewd mix of pragmatism and creativity. (Madhavan Narayan is a senior journalist) (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article.) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Karunanidhi was the true kingmaker behind 6 Indian Prime Ministers

The issue of Sri Lankan Tamils' interest for a different country or the 'Tamil Eelam' has dependably had a solid reverberation in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

When in 2008-2009, the Sri Lankan Army moved for the final attack to weed out LTTE unequivocally, charges of 'violation of human rights' and 'massacre' of ethnic Tamils surfaced. The affirmations were fortified by claims in the media.

Aware of M Karunanidhi's soft corner for LTTE chief V Prabhakaran, the UPA did not think it politically prudent to annoy the DMK patriarch by openly supporting the Sri Lankan government against the LTTE.

The DMK wanted the Indian govt to back a strongly-worded resolution in the UNHRC against Sri Lanka, seeking an international, independent probe against Sri Lanka. It also wanted the use, in the resolution, of stronger terms like 'genocide' and 'war crimes'.

The DMK had decided to pull out of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government after three top Union ministers failed to satisfy M Karunanidhi, the DMK supremo, with the wording of the resolution.

Many times Karunanidhi had courted controversies for supporting the LTTE and other outfits that wished to break from Sri Lanka – the Jain Commission that probed the 1991 Rajiv Gandhi assassination had even indicted the Karunanidhi government of abetting the militant outfit of the island nation.

Although the DMK chief was acquitted, he had later claimed in an interview that he was ‘good friends’ with Prabhakaran.

Aware of M Karunanidhi's soft corner for LTTE chief V Prabhakaran, the UPA did not think it politically prudent to annoy the DMK patriarch by openly supporting the Sri Lankan government against the LTTE.

The issue of Sri Lankan Tamils' interest for a different country or the 'Tamil Eelam' has dependably had a solid reverberation in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. When in 2008-2009, the Sri Lankan Army moved for the final attack to weed out LTTE unequivocally, charges of 'violation of human rights' and 'massacre' of ethnic Tamils surfaced. The affirmations were fortified by claims in the media. Aware of M Karunanidhi's soft corner for LTTE chief V Prabhakaran, the UPA did not think it politically prudent to annoy the DMK patriarch by openly supporting the Sri Lankan government against the LTTE. The DMK wanted the Indian govt to back a strongly-worded resolution in the UNHRC against Sri Lanka, seeking an international, independent probe against Sri Lanka. It also wanted the use, in the resolution, of stronger terms like 'genocide' and 'war crimes'. The DMK had decided to pull out of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government after three top Union ministers failed to satisfy M Karunanidhi, the DMK supremo, with the wording of the resolution. Many times Karunanidhi had courted controversies for supporting the LTTE and other outfits that wished to break from Sri Lanka – the Jain Commission that probed the 1991 Rajiv Gandhi assassination had even indicted the Karunanidhi government of abetting the militant outfit of the island nation. Although the DMK chief was acquitted, he had later claimed in an interview that he was ‘good friends’ with Prabhakaran.

When DMK pulled out of UPA because of the LTTE 

Ahead of Independence Day, the Centre has urged all citizens not to use national flag made up of plastic and asked states and Union Territories to ensure strict compliance of the flag code.

In an advisory to states and Union territories, the Home Ministry said the national flag represents hopes and aspirations of the people of India and hence should occupy a position of honour.

The ministry said it has been brought to its notice that during important events, the national flag made of plastic is used in place of paper flags.

Since plastic flags are not biodegradable like paper flags, these do not get decomposed for a long time and ensuring appropriate disposal of national flag made of plastic commensurate with the dignity of the flag, is a practical problem, the advisory said.

As per Section 2 of 'The Prevention of insults to National Honour Act, 1971' - Whoever in any public place or in any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to or brings into contempt (whether by words, either spoken or written, or by acts) the Indian National Flag or any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.

The advisory said on important national, cultural and sports events, flags made of paper only are to be used by public in terms of the provisions of the 'Flag Code of India, 2002' and such paper flags are not to be discarded or thrown on the ground after the event.

Such flags are to be disposed of, in private, consistent with the dignity of the flag. Wide publicity for not using the national flag made of plastic should be made along with its advertisement in the electronic and print media 
State governments, UT administrations, secretaries of all ministries and departments of government of India were told to ensure strict compliance of the provisions contained in the 'Flag Code of India, 2002' and 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

There is universal affection and respect for and loyalty to the national flag. Yet, a perceptible lack of awareness is often noticed amongst people as well as organisations and agencies of the government in regard to laws, practices and conventions that apply to 'display of the national flag', the advisory said.

The ministry said it has been brought to its notice that during important events, the national flag made of plastic is used in place of paper flags.

Ahead of Independence Day, the Centre has urged all citizens not to use national flag made up of plastic and asked states and Union Territories to ensure strict compliance of the flag code. In an advisory to states and Union territories, the Home Ministry said the national flag represents hopes and aspirations of the people of India and hence should occupy a position of honour. The ministry said it has been brought to its notice that during important events, the national flag made of plastic is used in place of paper flags. Since plastic flags are not biodegradable like paper flags, these do not get decomposed for a long time and ensuring appropriate disposal of national flag made of plastic commensurate with the dignity of the flag, is a practical problem, the advisory said. As per Section 2 of 'The Prevention of insults to National Honour Act, 1971' - Whoever in any public place or in any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to or brings into contempt (whether by words, either spoken or written, or by acts) the Indian National Flag or any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both. The advisory said on important national, cultural and sports events, flags made of paper only are to be used by public in terms of the provisions of the 'Flag Code of India, 2002' and such paper flags are not to be discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. Such flags are to be disposed of, in private, consistent with the dignity of the flag. Wide publicity for not using the national flag made of plastic should be made along with its advertisement in the electronic and print media State governments, UT administrations, secretaries of all ministries and departments of government of India were told to ensure strict compliance of the provisions contained in the 'Flag Code of India, 2002' and 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. There is universal affection and respect for and loyalty to the national flag. Yet, a perceptible lack of awareness is often noticed amongst people as well as organisations and agencies of the government in regard to laws, practices and conventions that apply to 'display of the national flag', the advisory said.

Don't use plastic flags, it is not biodegradable: Home ministry

Hearing by the Madras High Court in the case against denial of burial land to late Tamil Nadu chief minister Karunanidhi&nbsp;at Marina beach by the state government&nbsp;was adjourned late on Tuesday night as the state government sought more time to file a reply.

The case was adjourned till 8am on Wednesday.

In a late night development, a two-member<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/karunanidhis-body-moved-to-family-residence-at-gopalapuram-in-chennai-157684"> bench at acting chief justice's</a> residence in Chennai began hearing the case related to the final burial place for late Tamil Nadu chief minister Karunanidhi just hours after his death.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/aiadmk-government-rejects-dmk-demand-to-give-burial-space-to-karunanidhi-at-marina-beach-157675">Also Read:&nbsp;Row over Karunanidhi burial: DMK moves High Court, acting chief justice to hear </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/aiadmk-government-rejects-dmk-demand-to-give-burial-space-to-karunanidhi-at-marina-beach-157675">case</a>

Doraisamy, advocate who had filed a&nbsp;petition against burial on Marina told reporters: "I withdraw all cases in this regard because Kalaignar Karunanidhi is important for us. So now, there are no legal hurdles for the government."

The AIADMK government had earlier rejected DMK's demand to allow Karunanidhi to be buried at Marina beach. The state government had said it was unable to allot space at Marina beach due&nbsp;to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and "legal complications".

However, the DMK wasn't satisfied with the state government's explanation and appealed to the High Court. Senior counsel for DMK P Wilson and Saravanan went to acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh's residence and sought permission to move an urgent motion.

Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, besides actor Rajinikanth backed the DMK's demand and urged the government to allot the leader a space on the famed sands.

The acting chief justice directed them to serve notice on the advocate general, saying he would hear the case at 10.30 pm at his residence. DMK working president M K Stalin had written to chief minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of Karunanidhi's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

The development took place even as&nbsp; Karunanidhi's body was being moved to his family residence at&nbsp;Gopalapuram in Chennai.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lQyKwgh34wc" width="560"></iframe>

The development took place even as Karunanidhi's body was being moved to his family residence at Gopalapuram in Chennai.

Hearing by the Madras High Court in the case against denial of burial land to late Tamil Nadu chief minister Karunanidhi at Marina beach by the state government was adjourned late on Tuesday night as the state government sought more time to file a reply. The case was adjourned till 8am on Wednesday. In a late night development, a two-member bench at acting chief justice's residence in Chennai began hearing the case related to the final burial place for late Tamil Nadu chief minister Karunanidhi just hours after his death. Also Read: Row over Karunanidhi burial: DMK moves High Court, acting chief justice to hear case Doraisamy, advocate who had filed a petition against burial on Marina told reporters: "I withdraw all cases in this regard because Kalaignar Karunanidhi is important for us. So now, there are no legal hurdles for the government." The AIADMK government had earlier rejected DMK's demand to allow Karunanidhi to be buried at Marina beach. The state government had said it was unable to allot space at Marina beach due to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and "legal complications". However, the DMK wasn't satisfied with the state government's explanation and appealed to the High Court. Senior counsel for DMK P Wilson and Saravanan went to acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh's residence and sought permission to move an urgent motion. Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, besides actor Rajinikanth backed the DMK's demand and urged the government to allot the leader a space on the famed sands. The acting chief justice directed them to serve notice on the advocate general, saying he would hear the case at 10.30 pm at his residence. DMK working president M K Stalin had written to chief minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of Karunanidhi's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina. The development took place even as Karunanidhi's body was being moved to his family residence at Gopalapuram in Chennai.

Karunanidhi burial at Marina beach: Madras High Court adjourns case till 8am today

An encounter has broken out between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: An encounter has started between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad. More details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/qbnAWKdyLz">pic.twitter.com/qbnAWKdyLz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1027070773784064000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: An encounter has started between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad. More details awaited. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/eDxwyG9IjB">pic.twitter.com/eDxwyG9IjB</a>
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A major and three soldiers were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-army-major-3-soldiers-killed-trying-to-thwart-inflitration-attempt-157525">killed thwarting an infiltration attempt</a> yesterday in north Kashmir's Gurez.&nbsp;

As many as four terrorists were also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

(This is a developing story. Further details are awaited.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A major and three soldiers were killed thwarting an infiltration attempt yesterday in north Kashmir's Gurez.

An encounter has broken out between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad. #JammuAndKashmir: An encounter has started between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/qbnAWKdyLz — ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018 × #JammuAndKashmir: An encounter has started between security forces and terrorists in Baramulla district's Rafiabad. More details awaited. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/eDxwyG9IjB — ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018 × A major and three soldiers were killed thwarting an infiltration attempt yesterday in north Kashmir's Gurez. As many as four terrorists were also killed in the encounter. (This is a developing story. Further details are awaited.)

Kashmir: Encounter underway between security forces, terrorists in Baramulla

A 71-year-old Sikh man was brutally assaulted and spit at by two unidentified men in the US state of California, the second attack on a community member in about a week that has raised concerns over increasing incidents of hate crimes in the country.&nbsp;

Disturbing footage from a surveillance camera shows Sahib Singh Natt walking alone on the side of a road early morning on August 6 in Manteca, California when two men, wearing hoodies, walking from the opposite direction approach him. Natt stops seeing the men and the two men are seen talking to him. Singh then walks past them but they continue to follow and talk with him.

After a brief argument, one of the men, who is wearing a black hoodie, suddenly kicks Natt in the stomach and the old man falls down on the road, with his turban coming off. He tries to get up and defend himself but the man again kicks him in the stomach. Natt falls on the road as the man who attacked him comes close to him and appears to touch his face and spit on him. They then walk away as Natt is lying on the road. A few seconds later the man in the black hoodie runs back and viciously kicks Natt three times near his head as he lay on the street. He then starts leaving again, pauses, turns around and then spits at Natt.

This is the second attack on a Sikh man in about a week in California. On July 31, 50-year old Surjit Malhi was attacked while putting up campaign signs in support of incumbent Republican Congressman Jeff Denham and other local Republican candidates. While beating Malhi, the attackers yelled “Go back to your country!” and spray painted the same message, along with hate symbols, on his truck. Local police are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime. Sikh advocacy group The Sikh Coalition wrote on their Facebook page that while it does not have any immediate evidence that the attack on Natt was bias-related, the group is quickly investigating the details to learn more. Natt has received serious injuries and a photo of him shows him in a collar brace.

A report in the Manteca Bulletin said Natt has had heart and other health issues. Manteca Police say the incident appears to be a robbery attempt but they are not ruling out the possibility of it being a hate crime. Co-founder of National Sikh Campaign Rajwant Singh said “we are disturbed and appalled by the recent attacks on Sikh-Americans. The fact that Sahib Singh was assaulted and had his turban ripped off his head should be a peaceful call to action for our community and the many supporters of our campaign — Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike. This situation serves as a painful reminder that there is still much work to be done in bringing Americans of all faiths, colours, and communities together.”

He said America is going through an “incredible time of polarisation” and hateful rhetoric has been inserted in the public domain.&nbsp;

“The Sikh community could be the easy target of the people who are either enraged or misguided. We hope that civic sense prevails in this nation and we continue to make this nation stronger and harmonious,” he added.&nbsp;

Executive Director of NSC Gurwin Singh Ahuja said Sikhs wear the turbans to stand up against inequality, injustice and the poor treatment of the oppressed.&nbsp;

The organization had launched the National Sikh Campaign & We Are Sikhs last year to spread awareness among Americans about their Sikhs neighbours, what the community stands for and the contributions it makes to the country.

Indian American Impact Project, A non-profit organisation focussed on Indian-American political participation, had condemned the attack on Malhi saying hate violence targeting the Indian American community, and the broader South Asian American community, has surpassed post-9/11 levels.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) published a report documenting a 45 per cent increase in hate violence and rhetoric against Indian, Sikh, and South Asian Americans from the year prior.

A 71-year-old Sikh man was brutally assaulted and spit at by two unidentified men in the US state of California, the second attack on a community member in about a week that has raised concerns over increasing incidents of hate crimes in the country.

A 71-year-old Sikh man was brutally assaulted and spit at by two unidentified men in the US state of California, the second attack on a community member in about a week that has raised concerns over increasing incidents of hate crimes in the country. Disturbing footage from a surveillance camera shows Sahib Singh Natt walking alone on the side of a road early morning on August 6 in Manteca, California when two men, wearing hoodies, walking from the opposite direction approach him. Natt stops seeing the men and the two men are seen talking to him. Singh then walks past them but they continue to follow and talk with him. After a brief argument, one of the men, who is wearing a black hoodie, suddenly kicks Natt in the stomach and the old man falls down on the road, with his turban coming off. He tries to get up and defend himself but the man again kicks him in the stomach. Natt falls on the road as the man who attacked him comes close to him and appears to touch his face and spit on him. They then walk away as Natt is lying on the road. A few seconds later the man in the black hoodie runs back and viciously kicks Natt three times near his head as he lay on the street. He then starts leaving again, pauses, turns around and then spits at Natt. This is the second attack on a Sikh man in about a week in California. On July 31, 50-year old Surjit Malhi was attacked while putting up campaign signs in support of incumbent Republican Congressman Jeff Denham and other local Republican candidates. While beating Malhi, the attackers yelled “Go back to your country!” and spray painted the same message, along with hate symbols, on his truck. Local police are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime. Sikh advocacy group The Sikh Coalition wrote on their Facebook page that while it does not have any immediate evidence that the attack on Natt was bias-related, the group is quickly investigating the details to learn more. Natt has received serious injuries and a photo of him shows him in a collar brace. A report in the Manteca Bulletin said Natt has had heart and other health issues. Manteca Police say the incident appears to be a robbery attempt but they are not ruling out the possibility of it being a hate crime. Co-founder of National Sikh Campaign Rajwant Singh said “we are disturbed and appalled by the recent attacks on Sikh-Americans. The fact that Sahib Singh was assaulted and had his turban ripped off his head should be a peaceful call to action for our community and the many supporters of our campaign — Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike. This situation serves as a painful reminder that there is still much work to be done in bringing Americans of all faiths, colours, and communities together.” He said America is going through an “incredible time of polarisation” and hateful rhetoric has been inserted in the public domain. “The Sikh community could be the easy target of the people who are either enraged or misguided. We hope that civic sense prevails in this nation and we continue to make this nation stronger and harmonious,” he added. Executive Director of NSC Gurwin Singh Ahuja said Sikhs wear the turbans to stand up against inequality, injustice and the poor treatment of the oppressed. The organization had launched the National Sikh Campaign & We Are Sikhs last year to spread awareness among Americans about their Sikhs neighbours, what the community stands for and the contributions it makes to the country. Indian American Impact Project, A non-profit organisation focussed on Indian-American political participation, had condemned the attack on Malhi saying hate violence targeting the Indian American community, and the broader South Asian American community, has surpassed post-9/11 levels. Earlier this year, South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) published a report documenting a 45 per cent increase in hate violence and rhetoric against Indian, Sikh, and South Asian Americans from the year prior.

In another hate crime within a week, 71-year-old Sikh man assaulted in US state of California

Over 21,000 Indians who were supposed to leave the US at the end of their permissible limits last year overstayed their visas, the Homeland Security Department said Wednesday.

While the percentage of Indians overstaying and not leaving the US after the expiry of their visas is not very high compared to some other nations, but India ranks among the top 10 countries whose citizens come to the US legally and continue to stay illegally.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in its latest annual report determined that 701,900 foreigners who entered the country through an air or sea Port of Entry overstayed their visas between October 2016 and September 2017.

The report said that in 2017, more than 10.7 lakh Indians visited the US on the popular B-1, B-2 visas, which is issued to those who come to the US for business, visit or tourism purposes.

Of these, 14,204 overstayed in the country. According to the report, 1,708 of these Indians left the US later after the expiry of their visas, while there is no record of 12,498 Indians leaving the country. This could be presumed that they continue to stay in the US as an illegal immigrant.

Comparatively in 2016, a little over 10 lakh Indians visited the US on B-1, B-2 visas. As many as 17,763 overstayed in the US. Of these 2,040 left the US sometime after the expiry of their visas, while 15,723 continued to stay illegally, as per the official DHS figures.

In 2017, the report said, 127,435 Indian students and research scholars came to the US on F, J and M visa categories. Of these, 4,400 Indians overstayed in the country. Figures indicated that 1,567 left the US later on, while 2,833 Indians are still in the US.

Among other categories of non-immigrants, more than 4.5 lakh Indians were expected to leave the US in 2017, of which 9,568 of them overstayed their visas. Among them, 2,956 left the US after the expiry of their visa term, while 6,612 are suspected to be illegally staying in the country.

In its 2017 Entry/Exit Overstay Report, the DHS said there were 52,656,022 in-scope nonimmigrant admissions to the US through air or seaport of entries (POEs) with expected departures occurring in fiscal 2017 the in-scope admissions represent the vast majority of all air and sea nonimmigrant admissions. Of this number, the DHS calculated a total overstay rate of 1.33 per cent, or 701,900 overstay events. For India it was 1.32 per cent.

The report also breaks down the overstay rates further to provide a better picture of those who remain in the US beyond their period of admission and for whom there is no identifiable evidence of a departure, an extension of period of admission, or transition to another immigration status.

At the end of fiscal 2017, there were 606,926 suspected in-country overstays. The overall suspected in-country overstay rate was 1.15 per cent of the expected departures, the DHS said.

It was 1.16 per cent for India, which is a non-visa waiver program (VWP) country. For non-VWP countries, the FY 2017 suspected in-country overstay rate is 1.91 per cent of the 14,659,249 expected departures.

For nonimmigrants who entered on a student or exchange visitor visa (F, M, or J visa), the DHS has determined there were 1,662,369 students and exchange visitors scheduled to complete their program in the United States. However, 4.15 per cent stayed beyond the authorised window for departure at the end of their programme. For India, the rate was 3.4 per cent, less than the national average.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in its latest annual report determined that 701,900 foreigners who entered the country through an air or sea Port of Entry overstayed their visas between October 2016 and September 2017.

Over 21,000 Indians who were supposed to leave the US at the end of their permissible limits last year overstayed their visas, the Homeland Security Department said Wednesday. While the percentage of Indians overstaying and not leaving the US after the expiry of their visas is not very high compared to some other nations, but India ranks among the top 10 countries whose citizens come to the US legally and continue to stay illegally. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in its latest annual report determined that 701,900 foreigners who entered the country through an air or sea Port of Entry overstayed their visas between October 2016 and September 2017. The report said that in 2017, more than 10.7 lakh Indians visited the US on the popular B-1, B-2 visas, which is issued to those who come to the US for business, visit or tourism purposes. Of these, 14,204 overstayed in the country. According to the report, 1,708 of these Indians left the US later after the expiry of their visas, while there is no record of 12,498 Indians leaving the country. This could be presumed that they continue to stay in the US as an illegal immigrant. Comparatively in 2016, a little over 10 lakh Indians visited the US on B-1, B-2 visas. As many as 17,763 overstayed in the US. Of these 2,040 left the US sometime after the expiry of their visas, while 15,723 continued to stay illegally, as per the official DHS figures. In 2017, the report said, 127,435 Indian students and research scholars came to the US on F, J and M visa categories. Of these, 4,400 Indians overstayed in the country. Figures indicated that 1,567 left the US later on, while 2,833 Indians are still in the US. Among other categories of non-immigrants, more than 4.5 lakh Indians were expected to leave the US in 2017, of which 9,568 of them overstayed their visas. Among them, 2,956 left the US after the expiry of their visa term, while 6,612 are suspected to be illegally staying in the country. In its 2017 Entry/Exit Overstay Report, the DHS said there were 52,656,022 in-scope nonimmigrant admissions to the US through air or seaport of entries (POEs) with expected departures occurring in fiscal 2017 the in-scope admissions represent the vast majority of all air and sea nonimmigrant admissions. Of this number, the DHS calculated a total overstay rate of 1.33 per cent, or 701,900 overstay events. For India it was 1.32 per cent. The report also breaks down the overstay rates further to provide a better picture of those who remain in the US beyond their period of admission and for whom there is no identifiable evidence of a departure, an extension of period of admission, or transition to another immigration status. At the end of fiscal 2017, there were 606,926 suspected in-country overstays. The overall suspected in-country overstay rate was 1.15 per cent of the expected departures, the DHS said. It was 1.16 per cent for India, which is a non-visa waiver program (VWP) country. For non-VWP countries, the FY 2017 suspected in-country overstay rate is 1.91 per cent of the 14,659,249 expected departures. For nonimmigrants who entered on a student or exchange visitor visa (F, M, or J visa), the DHS has determined there were 1,662,369 students and exchange visitors scheduled to complete their program in the United States. However, 4.15 per cent stayed beyond the authorised window for departure at the end of their programme. For India, the rate was 3.4 per cent, less than the national average.

US security department finds over 21,000 Indians staying illegally in United States

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day today after paying obeisance to DMK chief M Karunanidhi who passed away yesterday. As soon as the Lok Sabha met for the day, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan informed members of the demise of Karunanidhi (94).

Describing him as a “visionary” and a “leader of the masses”, she said he spread his political philosophy through screenwriting and produced some of the best hits in Tamil cinema.

After observing a moment of silence in his memory, Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the day. In Rajya Sabha, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu, reading out an obituary reference, described Karunanidhi as a multifaceted personality and a gritty figure who overcame difficulties.

Beginning his career as a screenplay writer, Karunanidhi used Tamil cinema to propagate Dravidian ideology and contributed to Tamil culture, he said. Karunanidhi entered politics at a very young age and was a member of the Tamil Nadu Assembly for a record 13 times, being elected from seven different constituencies, he said. In 1969, he became the third Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and went on to serve the state as its head for five terms.

He played a key role in scripting development of Tamil Nadu, Naidu said, adding in his death the country lost an eminent litterateur, an able administrator, a dedicated social worker and an outstanding statesman. Members stood in silence as a mark of respect to the departed soul. Naidu then adjourned the proceedings for the day.

Prior to the commencement of proceedings of the day, Naidu consulted senior leaders of various political parties for their views on adjournment of proceedings of the House for the day. He sought to know views of leaders as there was no precedent of adjourning the House in case the departed leader was not a sitting or former member of the House, sources said

Referring to Karunanidhi as one of the tallest leaders of the country, all members spoke in favour of adjournment of proceedings of the House as a mark of respect to the departed leader, they said. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anant Kumar said the government was also in favour of adjournment and the same was conveyed to the Lok Sabha Speaker as well.

He, however, sought the cooperation of all parties in both Houses in passing important pending Bills like the one relating to Prevention of Atrocities against SCs and STs in the Rajya Sabha and if required by dispensing with the Zero Hour and private members bills, they said.

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day today after paying obituary to DMK chief M Karunanidhi who passed away yesterday.

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day today after paying obeisance to DMK chief M Karunanidhi who passed away yesterday. As soon as the Lok Sabha met for the day, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan informed members of the demise of Karunanidhi (94). Describing him as a “visionary” and a “leader of the masses”, she said he spread his political philosophy through screenwriting and produced some of the best hits in Tamil cinema. After observing a moment of silence in his memory, Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the day. In Rajya Sabha, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu, reading out an obituary reference, described Karunanidhi as a multifaceted personality and a gritty figure who overcame difficulties. Beginning his career as a screenplay writer, Karunanidhi used Tamil cinema to propagate Dravidian ideology and contributed to Tamil culture, he said. Karunanidhi entered politics at a very young age and was a member of the Tamil Nadu Assembly for a record 13 times, being elected from seven different constituencies, he said. In 1969, he became the third Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and went on to serve the state as its head for five terms. He played a key role in scripting development of Tamil Nadu, Naidu said, adding in his death the country lost an eminent litterateur, an able administrator, a dedicated social worker and an outstanding statesman. Members stood in silence as a mark of respect to the departed soul. Naidu then adjourned the proceedings for the day. Prior to the commencement of proceedings of the day, Naidu consulted senior leaders of various political parties for their views on adjournment of proceedings of the House for the day. He sought to know views of leaders as there was no precedent of adjourning the House in case the departed leader was not a sitting or former member of the House, sources said Referring to Karunanidhi as one of the tallest leaders of the country, all members spoke in favour of adjournment of proceedings of the House as a mark of respect to the departed leader, they said. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anant Kumar said the government was also in favour of adjournment and the same was conveyed to the Lok Sabha Speaker as well. He, however, sought the cooperation of all parties in both Houses in passing important pending Bills like the one relating to Prevention of Atrocities against SCs and STs in the Rajya Sabha and if required by dispensing with the Zero Hour and private members bills, they said.

Parliament mourns Karunanidhi's death, both houses adjourned after paying obeisance to Kalaignar

The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from the Jammu and Kashmir government on a plea by Talib Hussain, a key witness in the sensational Kathua gang rape-and-murder case, alleging custodial torture by the state police in an alleged fake rape case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the submission of senior advocate Indira Jaising that Hussain had been brutally tortured in police custody and judicial intervention was needed.

The bench also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud asked the senior lawyer to explain as to how a writ of habeas corpus (produce the body) can be filed in the present case as the accused, Hussain, is in lawful custody of the police.

Jaising referred to a Supreme Court judgment and said that such a petition can be filed even in case of custodial torture.

The bench asked the state government to file the response in a week and asked the lawyers to serve a copy of the petition on the advocate general of the state. It also permitted the woman, who had lodged an FIR against Hussain alleging rape, to file an application seeking to intervene in the matter.

The bench posted the matter for further hearing on August 21.

The court was hearing the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea. The relative of Hussain sought his protection in police custody and alleged that he had been brutally beaten up in the alleged fake rape case.

The habeas corpus writ petition, filed by a cousin of the witness, alleged that Hussain had been kept in illegal detention and was being subjected to custodial torture.

Hussain is a key witness in the Kathua case, in which an eight-year-old girl from a minority nomadic community was abducted and gang-raped in January.

The state police’s crime branch, which probed the case, filed the main chargesheet against seven people and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile.

The court was hearing the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea. The relative of Hussain sought his protection in police custody and alleged that he had been brutally beaten up in the alleged fake rape case.

The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from the Jammu and Kashmir government on a plea by Talib Hussain, a key witness in the sensational Kathua gang rape-and-murder case, alleging custodial torture by the state police in an alleged fake rape case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the submission of senior advocate Indira Jaising that Hussain had been brutally tortured in police custody and judicial intervention was needed. The bench also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud asked the senior lawyer to explain as to how a writ of habeas corpus (produce the body) can be filed in the present case as the accused, Hussain, is in lawful custody of the police. Jaising referred to a Supreme Court judgment and said that such a petition can be filed even in case of custodial torture. The bench asked the state government to file the response in a week and asked the lawyers to serve a copy of the petition on the advocate general of the state. It also permitted the woman, who had lodged an FIR against Hussain alleging rape, to file an application seeking to intervene in the matter. The bench posted the matter for further hearing on August 21. The court was hearing the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea. The relative of Hussain sought his protection in police custody and alleged that he had been brutally beaten up in the alleged fake rape case. The habeas corpus writ petition, filed by a cousin of the witness, alleged that Hussain had been kept in illegal detention and was being subjected to custodial torture. Hussain is a key witness in the Kathua case, in which an eight-year-old girl from a minority nomadic community was abducted and gang-raped in January. The state police’s crime branch, which probed the case, filed the main chargesheet against seven people and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile.

SC seeks J&K govt’s reply on plea alleging custodial torture of Kathua case witness

Justice Indira Banerjee, Justice Vineet Saran and Justice K M Joseph were sworn in as Supreme Court judges today. Chief Justice Dipak Misra administered them the oath of office.&nbsp;

With the appointment of the three judges, the total strength of the judges in the apex court has gone up to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31.

While Justice Banerjee was the chief justice of Madras High Court, Justice Saran and Joseph were chief justices of the high courts in Odisha and Uttarakhand respectively.&nbsp;

The swearing-in took place in the middle of the controversy over the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/recapping-justice-km-josephs-appointment-fiasco-157522">government relegating Justice Joseph to the third position</a> in the order of seniority even though he was recommended for elevation way back on January 10.&nbsp;

Reportedly, judges including members of the collegium comprising Justices M B Lokur, Kurian Joseph and A K Sikri met Chief Justice Dipak Misra to raise their concerns on the seniority issue concerning Justice K M Joseph.&nbsp;

Commenting on the latest row, Kapil Sibal as quoted in an ANI report said, "The government has given the message that if a judge doesn't make a judgement in their favour, he may be treated the same. I believe that this day will be seen as a 'black day' in the history of Indian judiciary. This is the arrogance of the government."&nbsp;

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The govt has given the message that if a judge doesn't make a judgement in their favour, he may be treated the same. I believe that this day will be seen as a 'black day' in the history of Indian judiciary. This is the arrogance of the govt: Kapil Sibal on Justice KM Joseph <a href="https://t.co/jENtmk9J9G">pic.twitter.com/jENtmk9J9G</a>
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Justice Joseph is currently the longest-serving chief justice of any high court in India, with his tenure in the Supreme Court expected to go on till June 16, 2023. On the other hand, Justice Banerjee will serve as an SC judge until September 9, 2022, and Justice Saran till May 10, 2022. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

While Justice Banerjee was the chief justice of Madras High Court, Justice Saran and Joseph were chief justices of the high courts in Odisha and Uttarakhand respectively.

Justice Indira Banerjee, Justice Vineet Saran and Justice K M Joseph were sworn in as Supreme Court judges today. Chief Justice Dipak Misra administered them the oath of office. With the appointment of the three judges, the total strength of the judges in the apex court has gone up to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31. While Justice Banerjee was the chief justice of Madras High Court, Justice Saran and Joseph were chief justices of the high courts in Odisha and Uttarakhand respectively. The swearing-in took place in the middle of the controversy over the government relegating Justice Joseph to the third position in the order of seniority even though he was recommended for elevation way back on January 10. Reportedly, judges including members of the collegium comprising Justices M B Lokur, Kurian Joseph and A K Sikri met Chief Justice Dipak Misra to raise their concerns on the seniority issue concerning Justice K M Joseph. Commenting on the latest row, Kapil Sibal as quoted in an ANI report said, "The government has given the message that if a judge doesn't make a judgement in their favour, he may be treated the same. I believe that this day will be seen as a 'black day' in the history of Indian judiciary. This is the arrogance of the government." The govt has given the message that if a judge doesn't make a judgement in their favour, he may be treated the same. I believe that this day will be seen as a 'black day' in the history of Indian judiciary. This is the arrogance of the govt: Kapil Sibal on Justice KM Joseph pic.twitter.com/jENtmk9J9G — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018 × Justice Joseph is currently the longest-serving chief justice of any high court in India, with his tenure in the Supreme Court expected to go on till June 16, 2023. On the other hand, Justice Banerjee will serve as an SC judge until September 9, 2022, and Justice Saran till May 10, 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Justices Banerjee, Saran, and Joseph sworn in as SC judges; Kapil Sibal calls it a 'black day'

A bill seeking to empower district magistrates to pass orders for the adoption of children to reduce the time taken for issuing such directions was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday.

Currently, there is an inordinate delay in issuing adoption orders by the courts due to "heavy workload".

Against this backdrop, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill, 2018, was introduced by Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi.

As of July 20 this year, as many as 629 cases relating to the passing of adoption orders are pending in various courts.

The bill seeks to amend the Juvenile Justice Act to empower district magistrates to issue orders for the purpose of adoption.

"This would ensure timely processing of adoption cases and provide orphaned, abandoned and surrendered children with familial care and protection," the bill's Statement of Objects and Reasons said.

Besides, the bill provides for transferring of all the proceedings pending before any court relating to adoption orders under certain provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act to the district magistrate having jurisdiction over the concerned area.

"Due to delay in issuing the adoption orders by the courts, the child continues to languish in the child care institutions, even after getting a family," the statement said.

Under the Juvenile Justice Act, the adoption proceedings should be disposed of by the court within two months from the date of filing of an application.

The Act came into effect from January 15, 2016, with comprehensive provisions for the children allegedly found to be in conflict with the law as well as those in need of care and protection.

Currently, there is an inordinate delay in issuing adoption orders by the courts due to "heavy work load".

A bill seeking to empower district magistrates to pass orders for the adoption of children to reduce the time taken for issuing such directions was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Currently, there is an inordinate delay in issuing adoption orders by the courts due to "heavy workload". Against this backdrop, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill, 2018, was introduced by Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi. As of July 20 this year, as many as 629 cases relating to the passing of adoption orders are pending in various courts. The bill seeks to amend the Juvenile Justice Act to empower district magistrates to issue orders for the purpose of adoption. "This would ensure timely processing of adoption cases and provide orphaned, abandoned and surrendered children with familial care and protection," the bill's Statement of Objects and Reasons said. Besides, the bill provides for transferring of all the proceedings pending before any court relating to adoption orders under certain provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act to the district magistrate having jurisdiction over the concerned area. "Due to delay in issuing the adoption orders by the courts, the child continues to languish in the child care institutions, even after getting a family," the statement said. Under the Juvenile Justice Act, the adoption proceedings should be disposed of by the court within two months from the date of filing of an application. The Act came into effect from January 15, 2016, with comprehensive provisions for the children allegedly found to be in conflict with the law as well as those in need of care and protection.

Centre introduces bill in Lok Sabha to amend juvenile justice act

The Delhi Patiala House Court on Tuesday extended the interim protection given to former Finance Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram from arrest in the CBI and ED cases till 8 October in the Aircel-Maxis case.

The court had earlier granted interim protection from arrest till today (7 August 2018) to Karti in two cases filed by the CBI and ED in 2011 and 2012, respectively in the Aircel-Maxis matter arising out of 2G spectrum cases.

The CBI had filed a chargesheet against P Chidambaram, his son Karti Chidambaram and others, alleging that the ex-minister 'illegally' granted FIPB approval for foreign investment when only the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) was empowered to do it.&nbsp;

P Chidambaram’s role has come under the scanner of investigating agencies in the Rs 3,500-crore Aircel-Maxis deal and the INX Media case involving Rs 305 crore.

The Aircel-Maxis deal case, which emerged out of 2G spectrum cases, pertains to a grant by the FIPB to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd for investment in Aircel.

The ED had earlier said that the FIPB approval granted in 2006 by Chidambaram was beyond his mandate as he was only authorised to accord approval on project proposals up to Rs 600 crore.

Karti was arrested on February 28 at the Chennai airport upon his return from the United Kingdom, for his alleged role in the case.

Special CBI Judge O P Saini put up the matter for October after the counsel appearing for the agencies told the court that the main counsel was not well and requested time.

The Delhi Patiala House Court on Tuesday extended the interim protection given to former Finance Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram from arrest in the CBI and ED cases till 8 October in the Aircel-Maxis case. The court had earlier granted interim protection from arrest till today (7 August 2018) to Karti in two cases filed by the CBI and ED in 2011 and 2012, respectively in the Aircel-Maxis matter arising out of 2G spectrum cases. The CBI had filed a chargesheet against P Chidambaram, his son Karti Chidambaram and others, alleging that the ex-minister 'illegally' granted FIPB approval for foreign investment when only the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) was empowered to do it. P Chidambaram’s role has come under the scanner of investigating agencies in the Rs 3,500-crore Aircel-Maxis deal and the INX Media case involving Rs 305 crore. The Aircel-Maxis deal case, which emerged out of 2G spectrum cases, pertains to a grant by the FIPB to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd for investment in Aircel. The ED had earlier said that the FIPB approval granted in 2006 by Chidambaram was beyond his mandate as he was only authorised to accord approval on project proposals up to Rs 600 crore. Karti was arrested on February 28 at the Chennai airport upon his return from the United Kingdom, for his alleged role in the case.

Aircel-Maxis case: Court extends interim protection for P Chidambaram, Karti till 8 October

Amid a controversy over AIADMK government's rejection of DMK's demand for giving space for M Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach in Chennai, Congress President Rahul Gandhi today said the DMK patriarch deserves a space there like former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.&nbsp

The Congress president said he was sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be "magnanimous" in this time of grief.

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Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Marina4Kalaignar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Marina4Kalaignar</a>
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"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Gandhi's remarks came after a controversy erupted tonight following the Tamil Nadu government's rejection of the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of Karunanidhi.

The AIADMK offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications".

Karunanidhi died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

Karunanidhi died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

Amid a controversy over AIADMK government's rejection of DMK's demand for giving space for M Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach in Chennai, Congress President Rahul Gandhi today said the DMK patriarch deserves a space there like former chief minister J Jayalalithaa. The Congress president said he was sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be "magnanimous" in this time of grief. Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief. #Marina4Kalaignar — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018 × "Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Gandhi said on Twitter. Gandhi's remarks came after a controversy erupted tonight following the Tamil Nadu government's rejection of the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of Karunanidhi. The AIADMK offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj. DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina. Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death. A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications". Karunanidhi died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

Karunanidhi deserves space on Marina beach, tweets Rahul Gandhi

With just three days to go before the last Monsoon Session of NDA rule gets over, it is hard to decisively say who has emerged as the winner. Early on in the session, on July 20, Congress President Rahul Gandhi’s hug had caused a disruption in public discourse, which had allowed him to hog media headlines and attention on social media. In fact, leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi and JD(S)’s H Vishwanath continue to talk about it.&nbsp;

However, it’s difficult to say if that hug has achieved what it was meant to. Rahul Gandhi himself scuttled this one act of political astuteness by winking to a colleague, soon after he returned to his seat from the PM’s chair. And, herein lies a key concern for the Congress - Rahul is prone to scoring own goals.

His image as a carefree dynast who dotes over his dog does not do much to endear him to India’s common people. It has to be said though that Rahul’s public perception is largely created and sustained by ceaseless and organised trolling, which the Gandhi scion himself referred to in his speech. Acknowledging that he is called unflattering names like ‘Pappu’ by a wide section of people (not just by BJP supporters), Rahul sounded sincere and serious. It was a genuine moment of reflection by a public leader who wants to pit ‘love’ against ‘hate’, and ‘tolerance’ against aggression. And even with the wink, he has been able to affect a slight change in his public image. For one, in the absence of leaders like Mamata Bannerjee and Mayawati, Rahul has been able to emerge as one of the prime challengers to the government inside Parliament.

But, the Congress knows very well that this is not enough. Rahul’s image is not changing fast enough, and with the possibility of early -snap elections still real, it is the Rahul-factor that is giving the grand old party’s leaders sleepless nights.&nbsp;

For the Congress to survive, Rahul’s makeover needs to be completed ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Along with him and Congress, on trial in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, will be the entire Opposition’s chances of posing a serious challenge to the BJP in 2019 General Elections. In these states, the Congress’s state units are yet to fully resolve their internal differences. In MP Congress’s position has weakened in the wake of a slew of sops announced by the Shivraj Singh Chauahan led BJP government. In Chattisgarh, the state unit looks insipid in the absence of a single credible leader.&nbsp;

In Rajasthan, state Congress president Sachin Pilot and former Chief Minister Ashok Gahlot have so far managed to strike a picture of ‘all is well’. But will this façade hold as election draws nearer is anybody’s guess.&nbsp;

Several Caste-related bills cleared

The Monsoon Session had begun with a No-Trust vote against the government, but it is ending with parties reaffirming that in the next elections, once again caste will be a major decider of political fortunes.&nbsp;

Congress, which still wields considerable veto power in the Rajya Sabha allowed the passage of the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017, which is also known as the OBC Bill. It also assented to the Bill to grant constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), a pet project of the BJP.

Under pressure from its own dalit groups as well as parties like the BSP and Congress, the BJP-majority Lok Sabha finally passed the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment bill, 2018. The Bill overturns an order by the Supreme Court that had included certain safeguards against arrest under this law. 
 
Congress&nbsp;leader in the Lok Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, was quick to apportion credit for the amendment by saying, "In recent times, the government has brought as many six Ordinances, they could have brought the 7th Ordinance as well. If there was no public pressure, then the government would not have brought this bill”.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Rahul’s image is not changing fast enough, and with the possibility of early -snap elections still real, it is the Rahul-factor that is giving the grand old party’s leaders sleepless nights.

With just three days to go before the last Monsoon Session of NDA rule gets over, it is hard to decisively say who has emerged as the winner. Early on in the session, on July 20, Congress President Rahul Gandhi’s hug had caused a disruption in public discourse, which had allowed him to hog media headlines and attention on social media. In fact, leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi and JD(S)’s H Vishwanath continue to talk about it. However, it’s difficult to say if that hug has achieved what it was meant to. Rahul Gandhi himself scuttled this one act of political astuteness by winking to a colleague, soon after he returned to his seat from the PM’s chair. And, herein lies a key concern for the Congress - Rahul is prone to scoring own goals. His image as a carefree dynast who dotes over his dog does not do much to endear him to India’s common people. It has to be said though that Rahul’s public perception is largely created and sustained by ceaseless and organised trolling, which the Gandhi scion himself referred to in his speech. Acknowledging that he is called unflattering names like ‘Pappu’ by a wide section of people (not just by BJP supporters), Rahul sounded sincere and serious. It was a genuine moment of reflection by a public leader who wants to pit ‘love’ against ‘hate’, and ‘tolerance’ against aggression. And even with the wink, he has been able to affect a slight change in his public image. For one, in the absence of leaders like Mamata Bannerjee and Mayawati, Rahul has been able to emerge as one of the prime challengers to the government inside Parliament. But, the Congress knows very well that this is not enough. Rahul’s image is not changing fast enough, and with the possibility of early -snap elections still real, it is the Rahul-factor that is giving the grand old party’s leaders sleepless nights. For the Congress to survive, Rahul’s makeover needs to be completed ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Along with him and Congress, on trial in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, will be the entire Opposition’s chances of posing a serious challenge to the BJP in 2019 General Elections. In these states, the Congress’s state units are yet to fully resolve their internal differences. In MP Congress’s position has weakened in the wake of a slew of sops announced by the Shivraj Singh Chauahan led BJP government. In Chattisgarh, the state unit looks insipid in the absence of a single credible leader. In Rajasthan, state Congress president Sachin Pilot and former Chief Minister Ashok Gahlot have so far managed to strike a picture of ‘all is well’. But will this façade hold as election draws nearer is anybody’s guess. Several Caste-related bills cleared The Monsoon Session had begun with a No-Trust vote against the government, but it is ending with parties reaffirming that in the next elections, once again caste will be a major decider of political fortunes. Congress, which still wields considerable veto power in the Rajya Sabha allowed the passage of the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017, which is also known as the OBC Bill. It also assented to the Bill to grant constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), a pet project of the BJP. Under pressure from its own dalit groups as well as parties like the BSP and Congress, the BJP-majority Lok Sabha finally passed the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment bill, 2018. The Bill overturns an order by the Supreme Court that had included certain safeguards against arrest under this law. Congress leader in the Lok Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, was quick to apportion credit for the amendment by saying, "In recent times, the government has brought as many six Ordinances, they could have brought the 7th Ordinance as well. If there was no public pressure, then the government would not have brought this bill”. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Monsoon wrap - Caste is back, Rahul Gandhi yet to arrive

The intelligence agencies and Jammu & Kashmir Police on Monday claimed to have uncovered a major terror plot to carry out serial bomb blasts in Jammu and Delhi during the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations.

The agencies arrested a Kashmiri youth — who they said was in possession of explosives —&nbsp;Sunday night from a bus that was bound for the national capital from Jammu.&nbsp;

The youth was identified as Arfan Wani, a resident of Awantipora in Pulwama district of south Kashmir. Eight hand grenades and Rs 60,000 in cash were recovered from his possession, PTI quoted an official as saying.

Meanwhile, a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist Muzamil Ahmad Dar (22) was also arrested from the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir and explosives recovered from his possession, police said.

The accused person was in touch with the other terrorists of JeM and they were planning future attacks.

Police and other security agencies are alert in the wake of intelligence inputs that the Kashmiri militants of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen plan to carry out terror strikes in Jammu and New Delhi on the occasion of Independence Day on August 15.

In view of the arrest, a high alert has been sounded in Jammu. The terrorist is being put through sustained interrogation to ascertain about the plans and his contacts in the city and its outskirts, police said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Police said eight hand grenades were found on the man. There have been reports of a planned strike in Delhi around August 15, Independence Day

The intelligence agencies and Jammu & Kashmir Police on Monday claimed to have uncovered a major terror plot to carry out serial bomb blasts in Jammu and Delhi during the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations. The agencies arrested a Kashmiri youth — who they said was in possession of explosives — Sunday night from a bus that was bound for the national capital from Jammu. The youth was identified as Arfan Wani, a resident of Awantipora in Pulwama district of south Kashmir. Eight hand grenades and Rs 60,000 in cash were recovered from his possession, PTI quoted an official as saying. Meanwhile, a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist Muzamil Ahmad Dar (22) was also arrested from the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir and explosives recovered from his possession, police said. The accused person was in touch with the other terrorists of JeM and they were planning future attacks. Police and other security agencies are alert in the wake of intelligence inputs that the Kashmiri militants of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen plan to carry out terror strikes in Jammu and New Delhi on the occasion of Independence Day on August 15. In view of the arrest, a high alert has been sounded in Jammu. The terrorist is being put through sustained interrogation to ascertain about the plans and his contacts in the city and its outskirts, police said. (With inputs from PTI)

Man caught with bombs on bus to Delhi, police say major terror plot foiled

Tamil Nadu stands apart from every other state of India. Its politics, language, leaders, role models and the cultural footprint is far removed even from the other four south Indian states. This distinctiveness defines Tamil politics and former chief minister Karunanidhi was a fine example of it.

Karunanidhi joined politics at an early age. He was inspired by Annadurai and Periyar - two leaders who reshaped the political and social landscape of Tamil Nadu. He was deeply influenced by the rationalist movement that marked a great discontinuity in the long and unbroken traditional practices of the state.&nbsp;

Annadurai and Periyar strongly advocated abolishing superstitious practices, caste system, traditional form of worship and even traditional religion, and sought supremacy of rationality as well as distinctness of Tamil culture and language. They wanted to build a "modern"&nbsp;Tamil Nadu.

This movement galvanised the masses in Tamil Nadu. Traditional caste-based power structures were turned upside down. The movement also ended up impacting cinema which became a platform for cultural change. Popular film stars went on to become powerful politicians. Be it Karunanidhi, MGR or Jayalalithaa, all of them were associated with the film industry.

While MGR and Jaya were stars, Karunanidhi was the writer-poet-politician who inspired the masses through his writings and association with cinema. Tamil film stars and their fan clubs enjoyed more clout than political parties.

<img alt="Untitled design (52)_5_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(52)_5_0.jpg" width="770" />

The former DMK chief&nbsp;contributed in several vibrant films in the Tamil cinema such as Parasakthi, Manohara, and Malaikkallan.&nbsp;

Karunanidhi used Parasakthi to propagate the ideals of the Dravidian movement and penned dialogues that questioned the rationale behind belief and caste hegemonies.

It was due to his immensely powerful, rationalist dialogues he was given the term "Kalaignar" which means "artist" in Tamil.&nbsp;

Other than screenwriting, Karunanidhi&nbsp;also wrote poems, books, &nbsp;stageplays as well as letters. He also had a thorough knowledge of Sangam literature, one of the oldest languages in which the early history of Tamil Nadu is written.

His most famous books include Sanga Thamizh, Thirukkural Urai, Ponnar Sankar, Romapuri Pandian, Thenpandi Singam. In 1989, when he was the chief minister&nbsp;Karunanidhi penned the screenplay for Niyaya Tharasu.

In most of his films, he wrote politically inclined dialogues which had a strong message.&nbsp;

<img alt="karunanidhi91.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="960" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/karunanidhi91.jpg" width="878" />

Whenever a star went on to become a politician, the club acted as the vehicle on which their campaign was organised. It is for this reason that both Rajinikanth and Kamal Hassan are being watched as the possible next generation of star politicians.

Karunanidhi also led another cultural revolution in Tamil Nadu. He harnessed the "anti-Hindi struggle"&nbsp;to the DMK's advantage. In fact, the struggle against Hindi went on to become a hallmark of DMK's politics against Congress. When MGR went on to become the CM, he too held on to the same position on the Tamil language.

DMK and subsequently the AIADMK pushed for a politics which was rooted in Tamil pride. Karunanidhi was uncompromising on this issue. He staunchly believed that no other language could be imposed on the Tamil people. This distinctiveness even had its impact on Tamil eating habits. Tamil Nadu continues to retain strong backward caste, anti-brahmanical politics.&nbsp;

Though distinct from the politics of North India, the cultural politics of Tamil Nadu did impact the government in New Delhi and the Indian worldview.

It, in fact, left a deep impact on India's foreign policy. The war being waged by the liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam(LTTE) in Sri Lanka remained a strong political issue in the state. The central government had to take a neutral stand on the issue.&nbsp;

Clearly, Chennai and Delhi remained two different worlds, and nobody symbolised it as resolutely as Karunanidhi.

<img alt="Untitled design (57)_4_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(57)_4_0.jpg" width="770" />

It was due to his immensely powerful, rationalist dialogues he was given the term 'Kalaignar' which means 'artist' in Tamil.

Tamil Nadu stands apart from every other state of India. Its politics, language, leaders, role models and the cultural footprint is far removed even from the other four south Indian states. This distinctiveness defines Tamil politics and former chief minister Karunanidhi was a fine example of it. Karunanidhi joined politics at an early age. He was inspired by Annadurai and Periyar - two leaders who reshaped the political and social landscape of Tamil Nadu. He was deeply influenced by the rationalist movement that marked a great discontinuity in the long and unbroken traditional practices of the state. Annadurai and Periyar strongly advocated abolishing superstitious practices, caste system, traditional form of worship and even traditional religion, and sought supremacy of rationality as well as distinctness of Tamil culture and language. They wanted to build a "modern" Tamil Nadu. This movement galvanised the masses in Tamil Nadu. Traditional caste-based power structures were turned upside down. The movement also ended up impacting cinema which became a platform for cultural change. Popular film stars went on to become powerful politicians. Be it Karunanidhi, MGR or Jayalalithaa, all of them were associated with the film industry. While MGR and Jaya were stars, Karunanidhi was the writer-poet-politician who inspired the masses through his writings and association with cinema. Tamil film stars and their fan clubs enjoyed more clout than political parties. The former DMK chief contributed in several vibrant films in the Tamil cinema such as Parasakthi, Manohara, and Malaikkallan. Karunanidhi used Parasakthi to propagate the ideals of the Dravidian movement and penned dialogues that questioned the rationale behind belief and caste hegemonies. It was due to his immensely powerful, rationalist dialogues he was given the term "Kalaignar" which means "artist" in Tamil. Other than screenwriting, Karunanidhi also wrote poems, books, stageplays as well as letters. He also had a thorough knowledge of Sangam literature, one of the oldest languages in which the early history of Tamil Nadu is written. His most famous books include Sanga Thamizh, Thirukkural Urai, Ponnar Sankar, Romapuri Pandian, Thenpandi Singam. In 1989, when he was the chief minister Karunanidhi penned the screenplay for Niyaya Tharasu. In most of his films, he wrote politically inclined dialogues which had a strong message. Whenever a star went on to become a politician, the club acted as the vehicle on which their campaign was organised. It is for this reason that both Rajinikanth and Kamal Hassan are being watched as the possible next generation of star politicians. Karunanidhi also led another cultural revolution in Tamil Nadu. He harnessed the "anti-Hindi struggle" to the DMK's advantage. In fact, the struggle against Hindi went on to become a hallmark of DMK's politics against Congress. When MGR went on to become the CM, he too held on to the same position on the Tamil language. DMK and subsequently the AIADMK pushed for a politics which was rooted in Tamil pride. Karunanidhi was uncompromising on this issue. He staunchly believed that no other language could be imposed on the Tamil people. This distinctiveness even had its impact on Tamil eating habits. Tamil Nadu continues to retain strong backward caste, anti-brahmanical politics. Though distinct from the politics of North India, the cultural politics of Tamil Nadu did impact the government in New Delhi and the Indian worldview. It, in fact, left a deep impact on India's foreign policy. The war being waged by the liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam(LTTE) in Sri Lanka remained a strong political issue in the state. The central government had to take a neutral stand on the issue. Clearly, Chennai and Delhi remained two different worlds, and nobody symbolised it as resolutely as Karunanidhi.

Karunanidhi: The poet, screenplay writer who wrote politically strong dialogues

The mortal remains of former chief minister of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/muthuvel-karunanidhi-tamil-nadus-kalaignar-dies-at-94-157635">Tamil Nadu M Karunanidhi </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/muthuvel-karunanidhi-tamil-nadus-kalaignar-dies-at-94-157635">was</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/muthuvel-karunanidhi-tamil-nadus-kalaignar-dies-at-94-157635"> moved</a> to the family residence at Gopalapuram amid controversy over his burial place.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/aiadmk-government-rejects-dmk-demand-to-give-burial-space-to-karunanidhi-at-marina-beach-157675">Also Read:&nbspAIADMK government rejects DMK demand to give burial space to Karunanidhi at Marina beach</a>

The streets were filled with Karunanidhi supporters as the body was being moved to Gopalapuram under heavy security cover. Reports said&nbspKarunanidhi's body will be moved to Rajaji hall at 4am.

The AIADMK government rejected DMK's request to allot a burial place at the historic Marina beach where all former sitting CMs including M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalitha were buried.

The DMK challenged the state government's move in the High Court with an urgent hearing slated to take place at 10:30 pm tonight. Meanwhile, reports said the state government has decided to accord "state funeral" to Karunanidhi.

The national flag will fly at half mast in Delhi and all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu on Wednesday as a mark of respect to DMK chief M Karunanidhi, who passed away today, the Home Ministry announced.

The government of India will observe state mourning across the country on Wednesday and there will be no official entertainment during the day.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bYdLunAOHGE" width="560"></iframe>

The national flag will fly at half mast in Delhi and all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu on Wednesday

The mortal remains of former chief minister of Tamil Nadu M Karunanidhi was moved to the family residence at Gopalapuram amid controversy over his burial place. Also Read:&nbspAIADMK government rejects DMK demand to give burial space to Karunanidhi at Marina beach The streets were filled with Karunanidhi supporters as the body was being moved to Gopalapuram under heavy security cover. Reports said&nbspKarunanidhi's body will be moved to Rajaji hall at 4am. The AIADMK government rejected DMK's request to allot a burial place at the historic Marina beach where all former sitting CMs including M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalitha were buried. The DMK challenged the state government's move in the High Court with an urgent hearing slated to take place at 10:30 pm tonight. Meanwhile, reports said the state government has decided to accord "state funeral" to Karunanidhi. The national flag will fly at half mast in Delhi and all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu on Wednesday as a mark of respect to DMK chief M Karunanidhi, who passed away today, the Home Ministry announced. The government of India will observe state mourning across the country on Wednesday and there will be no official entertainment during the day.

Karunanidhi's body moved to family residence at Gopalapuram in Chennai

A US Navy veteran, who shot and killed Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and injured two others at a suburban Kansas City bar in 2017, was today sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and injured two others, Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot&nbsp;at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Purinton was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offences arising out of the shooting.&nbsp;

At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime.&nbsp;

Purinton has also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison.

"The crimes at issue, in this case, are detestable," Sessions said. "The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering."

Sessions said in the statement that while the "irreparable harm" that Purinton has done cannot be undone, "some measure of justice for the victims' families has been achieved."

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and injured two others, Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

A US Navy veteran, who shot and killed Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and injured two others at a suburban Kansas City bar in 2017, was today sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and injured two others, Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017. Purinton was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement. Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offences arising out of the shooting. At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime. Purinton has also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison. "The crimes at issue, in this case, are detestable," Sessions said. "The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering." Sessions said in the statement that while the "irreparable harm" that Purinton has done cannot be undone, "some measure of justice for the victims' families has been achieved."

Kansas shooting: US Navy veteran sentenced to life for killing Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla

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