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Union Minister Arun Jaitley who had undergone a <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-returns-home-after-kidney-transplant-thanks-well-wishers--142116">kidney transplant in mid-May</a> will soon return to his office in the&nbsp;North Block.

Jaitley who was on a three-month break for medical treatment will be back in his office later this month.

His first-floor corner office in North Block is being renovated and sanitised to avoid any kind of infection to him.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal is currently holding the office at the Finance Ministry. Jaitley, however, had previously held meetings through video conference with his officials.

The former finance minister underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on May 14.

Before the treatment, the 65-year-old minister was put on a dialysis for one month.

In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications.

Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago.

(With inputs from PTI)

Jaitley who was on a three-month break for medical treatment will be back in his office later this month

Union Minister Arun Jaitley who had undergone a kidney transplant in mid-May will soon return to his office in the North Block. Jaitley who was on a three-month break for medical treatment will be back in his office later this month. His first-floor corner office in North Block is being renovated and sanitised to avoid any kind of infection to him. Railway Minister Piyush Goyal is currently holding the office at the Finance Ministry. Jaitley, however, had previously held meetings through video conference with his officials. The former finance minister underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on May 14. Before the treatment, the 65-year-old minister was put on a dialysis for one month. In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications. Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago. (With inputs from PTI)

Arun Jaitley to soon resume office as Finance Minister: Report

India's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/monsoon-disrupts-mumbai-150181#photo-150151">monsoon</a> rains, a crucial element for the country's farm output, are likely to be below average in 2018, after the country experienced tepid rainfall during the first half of the season.

There is a 47 percent chance of India recording below average rainfall during the second half of the monsoon season which stretches between June to September, India's weather office said in a statement on Friday.

For the first two months of the monsoon season, rainfall was below average, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

The monsoon rains could be considered the lifeblood of India's $2 trillion economy since the farm sector contributes 14 percent of the country's economic output and employs more than half of its 1.3 billion people.

A spell of good rains could keep a lid on inflation by holding down food prices, potentially tempting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring forward general elections due in May 2019.

Lower rainfall could add to the woes of those dependent on agriculture for a livelihood. Indian farmers, who have been hitting the streets to protest low income levels, are a crucial vote bank for a poll-bound Modi.

There is a 41 percent chance of India experiencing average rainfall, and 12 percent chance of above average rainfall during the second half of the monsoon season, the IMD said.

"The rainfall for the country as a whole during the second half of the season is likely to be 95 percent of the long-period average," the IMD said.

Modi has set an ambitious target of doubling farmer's income by 2022.

Farmers have planted summer crops on 73.8 million hectares (182.3 million acres) of land as of July 27, down 7.5 percent from a year ago, the Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare said.

India is the world's biggest producer of cotton and pulses and the second-biggest producer of sugar and rice.

The IMD had forecast earlier that India in 2018 would receive rainfall measuring 97 percent of the long-term average.

The agency has accurately forecast the monsoon season only once in every five years in the last two decades, even after allowing for a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points.

The first half of the season saw below-average rains and there is a 47 per cent chance of India also recording below average rainfall during the second half of the monsoon season which stretches from June to September.

India's monsoon rains, a crucial element for the country's farm output, are likely to be below average in 2018, after the country experienced tepid rainfall during the first half of the season. There is a 47 percent chance of India recording below average rainfall during the second half of the monsoon season which stretches between June to September, India's weather office said in a statement on Friday. For the first two months of the monsoon season, rainfall was below average, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data. The monsoon rains could be considered the lifeblood of India's $2 trillion economy since the farm sector contributes 14 percent of the country's economic output and employs more than half of its 1.3 billion people. A spell of good rains could keep a lid on inflation by holding down food prices, potentially tempting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring forward general elections due in May 2019. Lower rainfall could add to the woes of those dependent on agriculture for a livelihood. Indian farmers, who have been hitting the streets to protest low income levels, are a crucial vote bank for a poll-bound Modi. There is a 41 percent chance of India experiencing average rainfall, and 12 percent chance of above average rainfall during the second half of the monsoon season, the IMD said. "The rainfall for the country as a whole during the second half of the season is likely to be 95 percent of the long-period average," the IMD said. Modi has set an ambitious target of doubling farmer's income by 2022. Farmers have planted summer crops on 73.8 million hectares (182.3 million acres) of land as of July 27, down 7.5 percent from a year ago, the Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare said. India is the world's biggest producer of cotton and pulses and the second-biggest producer of sugar and rice. The IMD had forecast earlier that India in 2018 would receive rainfall measuring 97 percent of the long-term average. The agency has accurately forecast the monsoon season only once in every five years in the last two decades, even after allowing for a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points.

Monsoon likely to be below average in 2018: Met Department

Highly-placed sources in the Congress party told WION Friday that a decision on who will be prime minister — should the opposition win the elections — will be made only after the 2019 election results are out.&nbsp;

The sources added that neither Congress President Rahul Gandhi nor any of his associates had ever indicated that he is not interested in the position of prime minister. The sources said that ultimately, the question of who will be PM will depend on the number of seats a party wins. Many in the Congress had felt that the talk of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/if-opposition-wins-rahul-gandhi-open-to-mayawati-mamata-as-pm-in-2019-reports-154267">Rahul not being interested in the PM's post</a> was akin to ceding space to the regional players and to the BJP.

The sources added that the party has reached a strategic understanding with the principal regional parties in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The three states together account for 168 of the Lok Sabha's 545 seats. The sources also said the SP and BSP are willing to accommodate the Congress in UP in many more seats other than the Gandhi pocket boroughs of Rai Barelli and Amethi. The Congress feels it should be accommodated in a minimum of 15 seats.

The sources said the broad opposition alliance may not include the Aam Aadmi Party in 2019. A section of senior leaders wish to have an electoral understanding with the AAP but Delhi state Congress in-charge Ajay Maken is vehemently opposed to the idea. The sources said that in all probability, Rahul Gandhi will go by the state unit’s advice.&nbsp;

The sources added that most of the alliances are for the short term since in the long term, the Congress would like to go it alone.&nbsp;

The Congress feels its primary job in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is to defeat the BJP-RSS combine which has acquired hegemonic status in the Indian politics. The opposition "mahagathbandhan" or grand alliance stems from the reality that no single party can defeat the BJP on its own.&nbsp;

That said, the Congress feels 2019 will be another 2004 moment for the BJP which had met then with an unexpected defeat by the Sonia Gandhi-led UPA.

The sources said the Congress understands the BJP's strength but does not agree that the RSS-BJP combine is undefeatable. It was also pointed out in the conversation that the Congress wishes to have a cadre but does not wish to emulate the RSS as an organisation.&nbsp;

Many in the Congress had felt that the talk of Rahul not being interested in the PM's post was akin to ceding space to the regional players and to the BJP.

Highly-placed sources in the Congress party told WION Friday that a decision on who will be prime minister — should the opposition win the elections — will be made only after the 2019 election results are out. The sources added that neither Congress President Rahul Gandhi nor any of his associates had ever indicated that he is not interested in the position of prime minister. The sources said that ultimately, the question of who will be PM will depend on the number of seats a party wins. Many in the Congress had felt that the talk of Rahul not being interested in the PM's post was akin to ceding space to the regional players and to the BJP. The sources added that the party has reached a strategic understanding with the principal regional parties in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The three states together account for 168 of the Lok Sabha's 545 seats. The sources also said the SP and BSP are willing to accommodate the Congress in UP in many more seats other than the Gandhi pocket boroughs of Rai Barelli and Amethi. The Congress feels it should be accommodated in a minimum of 15 seats. The sources said the broad opposition alliance may not include the Aam Aadmi Party in 2019. A section of senior leaders wish to have an electoral understanding with the AAP but Delhi state Congress in-charge Ajay Maken is vehemently opposed to the idea. The sources said that in all probability, Rahul Gandhi will go by the state unit’s advice. The sources added that most of the alliances are for the short term since in the long term, the Congress would like to go it alone. The Congress feels its primary job in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is to defeat the BJP-RSS combine which has acquired hegemonic status in the Indian politics. The opposition "mahagathbandhan" or grand alliance stems from the reality that no single party can defeat the BJP on its own. That said, the Congress feels 2019 will be another 2004 moment for the BJP which had met then with an unexpected defeat by the Sonia Gandhi-led UPA. The sources said the Congress understands the BJP's strength but does not agree that the RSS-BJP combine is undefeatable. It was also pointed out in the conversation that the Congress wishes to have a cadre but does not wish to emulate the RSS as an organisation.

Congress sources: Decision on PM only after 2019 results; Rahul Gandhi back in race

The National Investigation Agency on Friday filed a charge-sheet in a special court in Jammu against six people including Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhat, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and Mohammed Shafi Wani in the case related to the escape of Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Naveed Jatt from Srinagar Hospital.

The NIA in filed charge-sheet reveals that the well-planned conspiracy to free the Pakistan-born terrorist was hatched in central jail, where he was lodged. They also&nbspconducted several meetings to execute the plan.&nbsp

It was planned by Mohammed Naveed Jatt, Hilal Ahmad Rather, Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhatt, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and &nbspMohammed Shafi Wani Mohd Naveed Jatt is a Pakistani terrorist.

On February 6, Naveed Jatt who was also named in the charge sheet escaped while he was being taken for medical treatment at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital in Srinagar after an attack on a police escort party.&nbsp

Two police personnel were also killed in the incident. 
 
As per the plan and in furtherance of the criminal conspiracy, the accused conducted a detailed recce of the SMHS Hospital as well as routes to be followed before and after the action.&nbsp

They also arranged vehicles and weapons to be used in the execution of the plan. During the investigation, accused Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhat, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and Mohammed Shafi Wani were arrested.&nbsp

LeT militant Mohd. Naveed Jatt &nbspand other accused Hilal Ahmad Rather are absconding, against whom non-bailable warrants have been issued by the NIA Special Court.&nbsp

After the completion of an investigation, NIA filed a charge-sheet against all the above mention six accused.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

The NIA in filed charge-sheet reveals that the well-planned conspiracy to free the Pakistan-born terrorist was hatched in central jail, where he was lodged. They also conducted several meetings to execute the plan.

The National Investigation Agency on Friday filed a charge-sheet in a special court in Jammu against six people including Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhat, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and Mohammed Shafi Wani in the case related to the escape of Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Naveed Jatt from Srinagar Hospital. The NIA in filed charge-sheet reveals that the well-planned conspiracy to free the Pakistan-born terrorist was hatched in central jail, where he was lodged. They also&nbspconducted several meetings to execute the plan. It was planned by Mohammed Naveed Jatt, Hilal Ahmad Rather, Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhatt, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and &nbspMohammed Shafi Wani Mohd Naveed Jatt is a Pakistani terrorist. On February 6, Naveed Jatt who was also named in the charge sheet escaped while he was being taken for medical treatment at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital in Srinagar after an attack on a police escort party. Two police personnel were also killed in the incident. As per the plan and in furtherance of the criminal conspiracy, the accused conducted a detailed recce of the SMHS Hospital as well as routes to be followed before and after the action. They also arranged vehicles and weapons to be used in the execution of the plan. During the investigation, accused Mohammed Tika Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Bhat, Syed Tajmul Islam Kirmani and Mohammed Shafi Wani were arrested. LeT militant Mohd. Naveed Jatt &nbspand other accused Hilal Ahmad Rather are absconding, against whom non-bailable warrants have been issued by the NIA Special Court. After the completion of an investigation, NIA filed a charge-sheet against all the above mention six accused. (With inputs from PTI)

NIA files charge sheet against six in LeT terrorist escape case

Amid massive uproar by the Opposition on Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) draft, former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has criticised the in-power Bharatiya Janata Party for "creating this problem" in the state and said that the draft is "full of faults."

"We're committed to The Assam Accord. Those residing here after March 24, 1971, will be considered foreigners and there is no scope for their names to be included in NRC. But, most of the 40 lakh people whose names have been dropped from the list are Indian citizens," Gogoi told ANI.

"BJP is creating this problem. NRC draft is full of faults. On one side they are speaking of Assam Accord, however, on the other side they are speaking of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and want to grant citizenship to immigrants. This is a contradiction," he added.

The draft, which was released on July 30, left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. Since then, the Opposition has been at loggerheads with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the issue.

Gogoi's statement comes after <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/assam-governor-assures-names-of-all-indian-in-final-nrc-list-156530">Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi </a>on Thursday assured that anyone who is an Indian would surely find their names in the final list of NRC.

"Draft of NRC is a historical event for Assamese as it has been done as per wishes of the people of the state and Assam accord. Many people are worried over non-inclusion of their names in NRC. I assure them that anyone who is an Indian, their name will certainly be there in final NRC report," Mukhi told ANI.

The first draft was published on December 31, 2017, and names of 1.9 crore of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated.

The NRC draft features the names, addresses, and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.&nbsp

'BJP is creating this problem. NRC draft is full of faults. On one side they are speaking of Assam Accord, however, on the other side they are speaking of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and want to grant citizenship to immigrants. This is a contradiction,' former Assam Chief Minister added

Amid massive uproar by the Opposition on Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) draft, former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has criticised the in-power Bharatiya Janata Party for "creating this problem" in the state and said that the draft is "full of faults." "We're committed to The Assam Accord. Those residing here after March 24, 1971, will be considered foreigners and there is no scope for their names to be included in NRC. But, most of the 40 lakh people whose names have been dropped from the list are Indian citizens," Gogoi told ANI. "BJP is creating this problem. NRC draft is full of faults. On one side they are speaking of Assam Accord, however, on the other side they are speaking of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and want to grant citizenship to immigrants. This is a contradiction," he added. The draft, which was released on July 30, left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. Since then, the Opposition has been at loggerheads with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the issue. Gogoi's statement comes after Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi on Thursday assured that anyone who is an Indian would surely find their names in the final list of NRC. "Draft of NRC is a historical event for Assamese as it has been done as per wishes of the people of the state and Assam accord. Many people are worried over non-inclusion of their names in NRC. I assure them that anyone who is an Indian, their name will certainly be there in final NRC report," Mukhi told ANI. The first draft was published on December 31, 2017, and names of 1.9 crore of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated. The NRC draft features the names, addresses, and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.

BJP is creating problems, NRC draft is full of faults: Tarun Gogoi

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday interacted with the Indian community in Kazakhstan's Astana and said that from first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to Dr Manmohan Singh, nobody addressed the Indian community in other countries like the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government.

"The attachment that this (Bharatiya Janata Party) government has with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) was never seen before. From Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to Dr Manmohan Singh, you would have never seen any Indian Prime Minister addressing NRIs in rallies," the External Affairs Minister said.

"I have been told that Astana is the second coldest capital of the world, but the warmth of Kazakh people do not let you feel this chill," she added.

Swaraj further said that the Centre and the External Affairs Ministry is serving Indian nationals 24x7.

"I have made a motto, 'Indian Embassy - Home away from home'. I thought it won't work if I will only say it. So, I myself took to Twitter to address people. We are available 24x7. You must have seen that once a tweet came from my side at 1 a.m. On another day I tweeted at 3 a.m," she said.&nbsp

Swaraj is currently on a three-nation visit to Central Asia region. After Kazakhstan, show will be visiting Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

It should be noted that it is her first trip to these countries as External Affairs Minister.

In the second leg of her visit, Swaraj will meet the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Erlan Abdyldaev and also call on the leadership of the country.

In the final segment of the trip, the Minister of External Affairs will visit Tashkent, Uzbekistan on August 4. The minister will also hold in-depth discussions with Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulaziz Kamilov.

Swaraj is also scheduled to address the ideologists and members of the Indian community in Uzbekistan.

She will also offer tribute at the memorial of former Prime Minister of India late Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri.

The visit to the three nations is aimed at enhancing engagement with this region which is India's extended neighbourhood. It will also provide an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with the political leadership on a wide range of global, regional and bilateral issues and will advance India's growing engagement with the Central Asian Region.&nbsp

'The attachment that this (Bharatiya Janata Party) government has with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) was never seen before', said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday interacted with the Indian community in Kazakhstan's Astana and said that from first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to Dr Manmohan Singh, nobody addressed the Indian community in other countries like the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. "The attachment that this (Bharatiya Janata Party) government has with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) was never seen before. From Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to Dr Manmohan Singh, you would have never seen any Indian Prime Minister addressing NRIs in rallies," the External Affairs Minister said. "I have been told that Astana is the second coldest capital of the world, but the warmth of Kazakh people do not let you feel this chill," she added. Swaraj further said that the Centre and the External Affairs Ministry is serving Indian nationals 24x7. "I have made a motto, 'Indian Embassy - Home away from home'. I thought it won't work if I will only say it. So, I myself took to Twitter to address people. We are available 24x7. You must have seen that once a tweet came from my side at 1 a.m. On another day I tweeted at 3 a.m," she said. Swaraj is currently on a three-nation visit to Central Asia region. After Kazakhstan, show will be visiting Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. It should be noted that it is her first trip to these countries as External Affairs Minister. In the second leg of her visit, Swaraj will meet the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Erlan Abdyldaev and also call on the leadership of the country. In the final segment of the trip, the Minister of External Affairs will visit Tashkent, Uzbekistan on August 4. The minister will also hold in-depth discussions with Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulaziz Kamilov. Swaraj is also scheduled to address the ideologists and members of the Indian community in Uzbekistan. She will also offer tribute at the memorial of former Prime Minister of India late Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri. The visit to the three nations is aimed at enhancing engagement with this region which is India's extended neighbourhood. It will also provide an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with the political leadership on a wide range of global, regional and bilateral issues and will advance India's growing engagement with the Central Asian Region.

'Nehru to Manmohan Singh, none addressed NRIs like BJP government': Sushma Swaraj

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday said that the state government has constituted two separate committees, state and district level, to monitor the entry of "illegal immigrants" in the state, post publication of the final draft of NRC in Assam.

In a press conference, the Chief Minister said the two committees will initiate steps for checking and verification of the people accordingly.

"In relation with Assam's NRC list, Manipur government is inquiring about influx of illegal immigrants from Assam and neighbouring states. We have taken measures to prevent entry of illegal immigrants and formed two committees - state level and district level monitoring committees," Singh said.

He asserted that the Manipur police on Thursday identified 29 people, who are not permanent residents of the state, at the airport in Imphal."From reliable sources, the government got the info that some illegal immigrants are coming to Imphal by air. So, the state government has established a checkpoint inside Imphal airport premises and today we identified 29 people who aren't permanent residents of the state. Police are monitoring," Singh added.

The draft, which was released on July 30, left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

Since then, the Opposition has been at loggerheads with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the issue.

The NRC draft features the names, addresses, and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.&nbsp

In a press conference, the Chief Minister said the two committees will initiate steps for checking and verification of the people accordingly

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday said that the state government has constituted two separate committees, state and district level, to monitor the entry of "illegal immigrants" in the state, post publication of the final draft of NRC in Assam. In a press conference, the Chief Minister said the two committees will initiate steps for checking and verification of the people accordingly. "In relation with Assam's NRC list, Manipur government is inquiring about influx of illegal immigrants from Assam and neighbouring states. We have taken measures to prevent entry of illegal immigrants and formed two committees - state level and district level monitoring committees," Singh said. He asserted that the Manipur police on Thursday identified 29 people, who are not permanent residents of the state, at the airport in Imphal."From reliable sources, the government got the info that some illegal immigrants are coming to Imphal by air. So, the state government has established a checkpoint inside Imphal airport premises and today we identified 29 people who aren't permanent residents of the state. Police are monitoring," Singh added. The draft, which was released on July 30, left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. Since then, the Opposition has been at loggerheads with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the issue. The NRC draft features the names, addresses, and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.

NRC draft: Manipur constitutes committees to monitor influx of immigrants

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Pakistan on Thursday night summoned&nbspIndia's deputy high commissioner&nbspJ P Singh&nbspover alleged ceasefire violations by the Indian Army along the Line of Control(LoC).

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Virat Kohli scored a gritty 149 to rescue India and leave the intriguing first Test finely balanced as England were left to rue several missed chances before they ended the second day 22 runs ahead on Thursday

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<a href="http://wionews.com/world/zimbabwes-mnangagwa-wins-first-post-mugabe-election-156628">Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa wins </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/zimbabwes-mnangagwa-wins-first-post-mugabe-election-156628">first</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/zimbabwes-mnangagwa-wins-first-post-mugabe-election-156628"> post-Mugabe election</a>

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, a former spy chief installed after Robert Mugabe's removal in a coup in November, was elected on Thursday after a poll marred by the deaths of six people in an army crackdown on opposition protests.

Pakistan summons India's deputy high commissioner JP Singh over alleged ceasefire violations Pakistan on Thursday night summoned&nbspIndia's deputy high commissioner&nbspJ P Singh&nbspover alleged ceasefire violations by the Indian Army along the Line of Control(LoC). Centre approves Collegium's recommendation to elevate Justice KM Joseph to Supreme Court: Report Resolving the long going&nbspconflict between&nbspthe executive and the judiciary&nbspover the appointment of&nbspUttrakhand High Court chief justice KM Joseph&nbspto the Supreme Court, the Union Government&nbsphas finally accepted the decision of the Collegium to appoint justice KM Joseph as the Supreme Court judge. Virat@21: How Indian skipper flayed England at Edgbaston Virat Kohli scored a gritty 149 to rescue India and leave the intriguing first Test finely balanced as England were left to rue several missed chances before they ended the second day 22 runs ahead on Thursday $1 trillion market capitalisation result of Apple’s innovation: CEO Cook to employees Chief Executive Tim Cook said on&nbspThursday that the iPhone maker's $1 trillion&nbspmarket capitalisation was "not the most important measure" of the company's success but was instead a result of its focus on its products, customers and company values. Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa wins first post-Mugabe election Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa, a former spy chief installed after Robert Mugabe's removal in a coup in November, was elected on Thursday after a poll marred by the deaths of six people in an army crackdown on opposition protests.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Rashtriya Janata Dal has called for a nationwide strike on Friday, demanding the resignation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar against the<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/new-medical-reports-confirm-5-more-rapes-at-bihar-shelter-home-155527"> alleged mass sexual exploitation at various shelter homes in the state</a>.

On Thursday, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav told ANI: "RJD will hold a strike in Bihar and across the country, including at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, on August 4 to seek answers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Muzaffarpur shelter home case and several other crimes in the state."

Eleven employees of a child shelter home in Muzaffarpur were arrested on July 24 for allegedly sexually harassing the inmates. After receiving information, the police raided the vicinity and rescued 44 girls.

Yadav even criticised the Bihar government of shielding the accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sexual assault case after a photo of its owner Brajesh Thakur being felicitated by Nitish Kumar emerged.

"Photos of top leaders honoring the accused (Brijesh Thakur) corroborate that several senior leaders are involved in this case and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is trying to shield them. Probe was delayed deliberately to manipulate evidence," Tejashwi Yadav said.

This came after the Left Parties and groups in Bihar called for a state-wide bandh in Patna on Thursday against the Muzaffarpur shelter home scandal. The protest in the city was also supported by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) members.

According to media reports, the protesters blocked railway tracks and several roads around the vicinity of the city.

On a similar note, the Supreme Court on Thursday took suo motu cognizance in the Muzaffarpur shelter home case.

The apex court division bench, headed by Justice Madan Bhimrao Lokur and also comprising Justice Deepak Gupta, issued notice to the Bihar Government and the Centre seeking a detailed reply from them in connection with the same.

Even the state police on Wednesday raided another shelter home run by Brijesh Thakur after a case was registered against him over the disappearance of 11 girls from the safe haven.

Thakur is the prime accused in Muzaffarpur's shelter home case, where more than 30 minor girls were sexually assaulted over a period of time.

The CBI had taken over the investigation from Muzaffarpur's Mahila Police Station, where the case was registered on May 31, under Section 120(B) (criminal conspiracy), 376 (outraging the modesty of a woman), 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 4, 6, 8, 10,12 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POSCO).

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was uncovered more than a month ago by a Mumbai-based social science institute. They had submitted its report in April and the Bihar social welfare department approved another project to Thakur on May 31 for beggars' shelter in Patna.&nbsp 
&nbsp

On Thursday, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said,'RJD will hold a strike in Bihar and across the country, including at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, on August 4 to seek answers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Muzaffarpur shelter home case and several other crimes in the state'

The Rashtriya Janata Dal has called for a nationwide strike on Friday, demanding the resignation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar against the alleged mass sexual exploitation at various shelter homes in the state. On Thursday, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav told ANI: "RJD will hold a strike in Bihar and across the country, including at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, on August 4 to seek answers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Muzaffarpur shelter home case and several other crimes in the state." Eleven employees of a child shelter home in Muzaffarpur were arrested on July 24 for allegedly sexually harassing the inmates. After receiving information, the police raided the vicinity and rescued 44 girls. Yadav even criticised the Bihar government of shielding the accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sexual assault case after a photo of its owner Brajesh Thakur being felicitated by Nitish Kumar emerged. "Photos of top leaders honoring the accused (Brijesh Thakur) corroborate that several senior leaders are involved in this case and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is trying to shield them. Probe was delayed deliberately to manipulate evidence," Tejashwi Yadav said. This came after the Left Parties and groups in Bihar called for a state-wide bandh in Patna on Thursday against the Muzaffarpur shelter home scandal. The protest in the city was also supported by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) members. According to media reports, the protesters blocked railway tracks and several roads around the vicinity of the city. On a similar note, the Supreme Court on Thursday took suo motu cognizance in the Muzaffarpur shelter home case. The apex court division bench, headed by Justice Madan Bhimrao Lokur and also comprising Justice Deepak Gupta, issued notice to the Bihar Government and the Centre seeking a detailed reply from them in connection with the same. Even the state police on Wednesday raided another shelter home run by Brijesh Thakur after a case was registered against him over the disappearance of 11 girls from the safe haven. Thakur is the prime accused in Muzaffarpur's shelter home case, where more than 30 minor girls were sexually assaulted over a period of time. The CBI had taken over the investigation from Muzaffarpur's Mahila Police Station, where the case was registered on May 31, under Section 120(B) (criminal conspiracy), 376 (outraging the modesty of a woman), 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 4, 6, 8, 10,12 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POSCO). The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was uncovered more than a month ago by a Mumbai-based social science institute. They had submitted its report in April and the Bihar social welfare department approved another project to Thakur on May 31 for beggars' shelter in Patna.

Muzaffarpur shelter home case: RJD's nationwide strike today

A panel of experts from the fields of economy, academia, security and trade on Thursday emphasised on stronger bilateral relations between India and the UK at an event titled 'Global Britain and India: A New Special Relationship' in London.

The seminar which was organised by the Democracy Forum in collaboration with the Henry Jackson Society brought out the positives guiding the bilateral relationship between the two nations, apart from discussing various hindrances and roadblocks. It was well attended with the audience including representatives from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, think tanks and business organisations including the City of London Corporation, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, British South India Council of Commerce and Sibylline Ltd.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office Director for South Asia and Afghanistan Gareth Bayley in his address stated that the UK-India relationship went beyond trade and investment as the two nations were also partners in being a global force for good, showing commitment to eradicating extreme poverty by 2030 and expanding access to sustainable energy.

He said, "Indeed! It's a very timely moment to have this seminar, and I think the Henry Jackson Society and the Democracy Forum have really come together to make for a really strong and rich in debate. Why is it important? For the simple reason, I think if global Britain has to succeed, it must succeed with its good friend - India. That's the headline".

He further said, "And, what we had with Prime Minister Modi's visit only recently to the United Kingdom was a strong affirmation of our relationship with the prospects of world and centre around the technology partnership above all, but it goes much wider than technology. It goes to issues of shared values, shared traditions and global partnership for global good".

Similarly, Director of the Henry Jackson Society Alan Mendoza said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had shown that he was willing to shatter, where possible, the constraints or stumbling blocks in the relationship. 
Mendoza assessed that in spite of problems, there were many opportunities in the relationship between the two countries, for instance in diplomacy, trade and anti-terrorism cooperation.

Another speaker in the seminar, Asian Affairs magazine Editor Duncan Bartlett in his address spoke of India's 2016 as a success story and stated that Prime Minister Modi's large-scale reform programme had achieved much including improved e-commerce, safer trains and a more reliable insurance and one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

Dr. Champa Patel of the Chatham House raised the issue of visa allocations and emphasised that anti-terrorism legislation was being used to deport highly skilled Indian workers. She warned that unless Britain could bridge these differing narratives, it was in the danger of losing its special relationship with India.

Shadow Secretary of State for International Trade and Chair Barry Gardiner also stressed the need to not only look into the glitches in the Indo-British relations with regard to visas but also to identify the real problems in security cooperation, in order to overcome them.

He pointed out that India and Britain have much to talk about their bilateral relationship in sectors such as defence, education, tourism, energy and information and technology, and this must happen at the central level.&nbsp

A panel of experts from the fields of economy, academia, security and trade on Thursday emphasised on stronger bilateral relations between India and the UK at an event titled 'Global Britain and India: A New Special Relationship' in London

A panel of experts from the fields of economy, academia, security and trade on Thursday emphasised on stronger bilateral relations between India and the UK at an event titled 'Global Britain and India: A New Special Relationship' in London. The seminar which was organised by the Democracy Forum in collaboration with the Henry Jackson Society brought out the positives guiding the bilateral relationship between the two nations, apart from discussing various hindrances and roadblocks. It was well attended with the audience including representatives from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, think tanks and business organisations including the City of London Corporation, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, British South India Council of Commerce and Sibylline Ltd. Foreign and Commonwealth Office Director for South Asia and Afghanistan Gareth Bayley in his address stated that the UK-India relationship went beyond trade and investment as the two nations were also partners in being a global force for good, showing commitment to eradicating extreme poverty by 2030 and expanding access to sustainable energy. He said, "Indeed! It's a very timely moment to have this seminar, and I think the Henry Jackson Society and the Democracy Forum have really come together to make for a really strong and rich in debate. Why is it important? For the simple reason, I think if global Britain has to succeed, it must succeed with its good friend - India. That's the headline". He further said, "And, what we had with Prime Minister Modi's visit only recently to the United Kingdom was a strong affirmation of our relationship with the prospects of world and centre around the technology partnership above all, but it goes much wider than technology. It goes to issues of shared values, shared traditions and global partnership for global good". Similarly, Director of the Henry Jackson Society Alan Mendoza said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had shown that he was willing to shatter, where possible, the constraints or stumbling blocks in the relationship. Mendoza assessed that in spite of problems, there were many opportunities in the relationship between the two countries, for instance in diplomacy, trade and anti-terrorism cooperation. Another speaker in the seminar, Asian Affairs magazine Editor Duncan Bartlett in his address spoke of India's 2016 as a success story and stated that Prime Minister Modi's large-scale reform programme had achieved much including improved e-commerce, safer trains and a more reliable insurance and one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Dr. Champa Patel of the Chatham House raised the issue of visa allocations and emphasised that anti-terrorism legislation was being used to deport highly skilled Indian workers. She warned that unless Britain could bridge these differing narratives, it was in the danger of losing its special relationship with India. Shadow Secretary of State for International Trade and Chair Barry Gardiner also stressed the need to not only look into the glitches in the Indo-British relations with regard to visas but also to identify the real problems in security cooperation, in order to overcome them. He pointed out that India and Britain have much to talk about their bilateral relationship in sectors such as defence, education, tourism, energy and information and technology, and this must happen at the central level.

Experts emphasise on strong India, UK ties

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore town on Friday.

The gunbattle&nbsp;between terrorists and security forces&nbsp;started at Baharmpora village of the Sopore town.

The encounter was carried out against the Terrorists by the State Police and 22 Rashtriya Rifles.

The terrorists were initially trapped inside the house during the&nbsp;encounter.

A day before, two terrorists were killed in an <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/2-terrorists-gunned-down-in-kupwara-encounter-156536">encounter</a> with the security forces in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The attack comes days after terrorists opened fire on security forces, deployed at the Kandahar general road in Maidanpora area of Kupwara district. They also snatched an INSAS rifle from a security official.

The security forces have launched a search and cordon operation in the valley.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Sopore Encounter: Two terrorists have been gunned down by security forces. Search operation continues. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ou4xZ51d1r">pic.twitter.com/Ou4xZ51d1r</a>
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The gunbattle between terrorists and security forces started at Baharmpora village of Sopore town

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore town on Friday. The gunbattle between terrorists and security forces started at Baharmpora village of the Sopore town. The encounter was carried out against the Terrorists by the State Police and 22 Rashtriya Rifles. The terrorists were initially trapped inside the house during the encounter. A day before, two terrorists were killed in an encounter with the security forces in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. The attack comes days after terrorists opened fire on security forces, deployed at the Kandahar general road in Maidanpora area of Kupwara district. They also snatched an INSAS rifle from a security official. The security forces have launched a search and cordon operation in the valley. #UPDATE Sopore Encounter: Two terrorists have been gunned down by security forces. Search operation continues. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/Ou4xZ51d1r — ANI (@ANI) August 3, 2018 ×

2 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore

Resolving the long going <a href="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-centre-asks-sc-to-reconsider-justice-josephs-elevation-133040">conflict between&nbsp;the executive and the judiciary </a>over the appointment of&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-collegium-reiterates-name-of-justice-km-joseph-for-elevation-as-apex-court-judge-153221">Uttrakhand High Court chief justice KM Joseph</a> to the Supreme Court, the Union Government&nbsp;has finally accepted the decision of the Collegium to appoint justice KM Joseph as the Supreme Court judge.

Reports on Friday suggested that the Union government has accepted the decision of the Collegium for the elevation of Justice Joseph to the apex court.

Citing government sources, a media report said that the authorities had cleared the files relating to the appointment of Justice Joseph. The report also added that the recommendation for appointment of Madras High Court Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Orissa High Court&nbsp;Chief Justice Vineet Saran as Supreme Court&nbsp;judges were also approved.

The recommendation for the appointment of KM Joseph had resulted in a tussle between the executive and the judiciary for the past six months.

A collegium headed by CJI Dipak Misra had recommended the name of KM Joseph as Supreme Court judge on January 10 inciting an unprecedented rebellion within the top judiciary.

Following this, four other members of the Collegium <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/convene-meeting-of-collegium-resend-justice-km-josephs-name-to-centre-justice-chelameswar-to-cji-misra-135904">Justice J Chelameswar</a>, Ranjan Gogoi, Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph held a press conference on January 12 to criticise the government's intervention in the judiciary and&nbsp;the functioning of the CJI.

On April 30 the government had rejected the recommendation for the elevation of Justice Joseph on the grounds of his seniority.

Meanwhile, the Opposition had argued that Justice Joseph is being "punished" because gave an unfavourable verdict against BJP in 2016 while hearing the challenge to governor's rule in Uttarakhand, imposed by central government.

&nbsp;

Reports on Friday suggested that the Union government has accepted the decision of the Collegium for the elevation of Justice Joseph to the apex court

Resolving the long going conflict between the executive and the judiciary over the appointment of Uttrakhand High Court chief justice KM Joseph to the Supreme Court, the Union Government has finally accepted the decision of the Collegium to appoint justice KM Joseph as the Supreme Court judge. Reports on Friday suggested that the Union government has accepted the decision of the Collegium for the elevation of Justice Joseph to the apex court. Citing government sources, a media report said that the authorities had cleared the files relating to the appointment of Justice Joseph. The report also added that the recommendation for appointment of Madras High Court Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Orissa High Court Chief Justice Vineet Saran as Supreme Court judges were also approved. The recommendation for the appointment of KM Joseph had resulted in a tussle between the executive and the judiciary for the past six months. A collegium headed by CJI Dipak Misra had recommended the name of KM Joseph as Supreme Court judge on January 10 inciting an unprecedented rebellion within the top judiciary. Following this, four other members of the Collegium Justice J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph held a press conference on January 12 to criticise the government's intervention in the judiciary and the functioning of the CJI. On April 30 the government had rejected the recommendation for the elevation of Justice Joseph on the grounds of his seniority. Meanwhile, the Opposition had argued that Justice Joseph is being "punished" because gave an unfavourable verdict against BJP in 2016 while hearing the challenge to governor's rule in Uttarakhand, imposed by central government.

Centre approves Collegium's recommendation to elevate Justice KM Joseph to Supreme Court: Report

The 'Terminator Train' began its operations Friday

Delhi launches 'Terminator Train' to battle mosquito menace

The National Green Tribunal has rapped the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for "repeated defiance" on issuing circular to airlines operating at the IGI Airport here to ensure that they do not empty toilet tanks midair.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel warned that if the order is not complied with by August 31, the salary of the Director General of Civil Aviation would be stopped.

The green panel took strong objection that despite its specific order there was neither any valid explanation nor there was compliance by the aviation regulator on the issue.

"Since there is a repeated defiance by the DGCA with absolutely no acceptable explanation, we have no option but to direct the DGCA to comply with the directions already issued on or before August 31," the bench, also comprising Justice Jawad Rahim, said.

The tribunal also warned that if there is "continued defiance" it may have to consider prosecution of the Director-General on the next date.&nbsp

"If the order not complied with, the Director-General may be required to remain present in person," the bench said.

The NGT directed that a copy of the order be sent by e-mail to the officer concerned and posted the matter for hearing on September 17.

During the hearing, the DGCA told the bench that the order has not complied till date because a review petition against the NGT's order was pending adjudication.

The DGCA had sought stay and review of NGT's December 20, 2016 and the January 10 order of the tribunal claiming that it was impossible to dump human waste mid-air from aircraft toilet.

On October 2016, a Delhi resident, Lt Gen (retd) Satwant Singh Dahiya, had filed a case alleging that houses in his neighbourhood were damaged by faeces dumped by airlines from planes at night.

Dahiya had moved the NGT alleging that faeces were splattered from aircraft on his South Delhi house before Diwali in 2016 after which the tribunal on December 20, 2016 had directed the DGCA to issue a circular to all airlines to pay Rs 50,000 as environmental compensation if their planes are found dumping waste midair.

The petition has referred to the findings of the expert committee, constituted by NGT, and said there is no switch or system available in the aircraft to dispose of waste in flight.

"The aircraft system has three level of in-built external protection for disposing the waste and under no circumstance release of waste during flight is possible and there has been no such resort ever by the operators.

"The modern-day airline toilets are sealed and cannot be emptied in flight and toilet waste can only be disposed of by manual operation on ground during its servicing," the DGCA had said.

The tribunal had earlier constituted committee comprising representatives from the DGCA, Central Avian Research Institute and CPCB to collect samples from the house of Dahiya.

Aviation regulator DGCA had maintained that it was impossible to dump human waste midair from aircraft toilet, and bird droppings had landed on the complainant's house, after which the green panel had ordered testing of the excreta samples.

The CPCB had said that there were traces of faecal coliform in the samples, indicating presence of human waste.

The tribunal had in 2016 held that if "any aircraft, airlines and the handling services of registered aircraft" were found to be dumping human waste from air or toilet tanks were found to have been emptied before landing, they shall be subjected to environmental compensation of Rs 50,000 per case of default.

The NGT had also asked the DGCA to carry out surprise inspection of aircraft landing at the airport to check that their toilet tanks are not empty while landing and prevent waste from being splashed over residential areas and any other place before landing.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel warned that if the order is not complied with by August 31, the salary of the Director General of Civil Aviation would be stopped.

The National Green Tribunal has rapped the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for "repeated defiance" on issuing circular to airlines operating at the IGI Airport here to ensure that they do not empty toilet tanks midair. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel warned that if the order is not complied with by August 31, the salary of the Director General of Civil Aviation would be stopped. The green panel took strong objection that despite its specific order there was neither any valid explanation nor there was compliance by the aviation regulator on the issue. "Since there is a repeated defiance by the DGCA with absolutely no acceptable explanation, we have no option but to direct the DGCA to comply with the directions already issued on or before August 31," the bench, also comprising Justice Jawad Rahim, said. The tribunal also warned that if there is "continued defiance" it may have to consider prosecution of the Director-General on the next date. "If the order not complied with, the Director-General may be required to remain present in person," the bench said. The NGT directed that a copy of the order be sent by e-mail to the officer concerned and posted the matter for hearing on September 17. During the hearing, the DGCA told the bench that the order has not complied till date because a review petition against the NGT's order was pending adjudication. The DGCA had sought stay and review of NGT's December 20, 2016 and the January 10 order of the tribunal claiming that it was impossible to dump human waste mid-air from aircraft toilet. On October 2016, a Delhi resident, Lt Gen (retd) Satwant Singh Dahiya, had filed a case alleging that houses in his neighbourhood were damaged by faeces dumped by airlines from planes at night. Dahiya had moved the NGT alleging that faeces were splattered from aircraft on his South Delhi house before Diwali in 2016 after which the tribunal on December 20, 2016 had directed the DGCA to issue a circular to all airlines to pay Rs 50,000 as environmental compensation if their planes are found dumping waste midair. The petition has referred to the findings of the expert committee, constituted by NGT, and said there is no switch or system available in the aircraft to dispose of waste in flight. "The aircraft system has three level of in-built external protection for disposing the waste and under no circumstance release of waste during flight is possible and there has been no such resort ever by the operators. "The modern-day airline toilets are sealed and cannot be emptied in flight and toilet waste can only be disposed of by manual operation on ground during its servicing," the DGCA had said. The tribunal had earlier constituted committee comprising representatives from the DGCA, Central Avian Research Institute and CPCB to collect samples from the house of Dahiya. Aviation regulator DGCA had maintained that it was impossible to dump human waste midair from aircraft toilet, and bird droppings had landed on the complainant's house, after which the green panel had ordered testing of the excreta samples. The CPCB had said that there were traces of faecal coliform in the samples, indicating presence of human waste. The tribunal had in 2016 held that if "any aircraft, airlines and the handling services of registered aircraft" were found to be dumping human waste from air or toilet tanks were found to have been emptied before landing, they shall be subjected to environmental compensation of Rs 50,000 per case of default. The NGT had also asked the DGCA to carry out surprise inspection of aircraft landing at the airport to check that their toilet tanks are not empty while landing and prevent waste from being splashed over residential areas and any other place before landing.

Poop from skies: NGT raps DGCA for 'repeated defiance', warns DG of withholding salary

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday termed the flood situation in the state the gravest in recent times and appealed to all to donate generously for taking up relief measures, reported PTI.

Besides causing loss to property and agriculture, the recent floods following the monsoon fury have claimed more than 130 lives, the Chief Minister said in a Facebook post.

Alappuzha district was the worst-hit and floodwater has not yet receded from Kuttanad in the district, he said and added state government was doing everything to help the rain-hit victims without considering financial constraints.

Several people have come forward to help the government in its relief work without seeking anything in return, he said, adding that support and co-operation of all were needed.

A total of 5,510 people from 1,276 families was still in 42 relief camps in Alappuzha district, officials said.

The government machinery was closely monitoring the water level in the Idukki reservoir, which stood at 2,396.28 feet today. The full level is 2,403 feet.

The water level is related to the Mean Sea Level and catchment area.

Most dams in the state were full and some of them were been opened to release excess water.&nbsp

A total of 5,510 people from 1,276 families was still in 42 relief camps in Alappuzha district, officials said

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday termed the flood situation in the state the gravest in recent times and appealed to all to donate generously for taking up relief measures, reported PTI. Besides causing loss to property and agriculture, the recent floods following the monsoon fury have claimed more than 130 lives, the Chief Minister said in a Facebook post. Alappuzha district was the worst-hit and floodwater has not yet receded from Kuttanad in the district, he said and added state government was doing everything to help the rain-hit victims without considering financial constraints. Several people have come forward to help the government in its relief work without seeking anything in return, he said, adding that support and co-operation of all were needed. A total of 5,510 people from 1,276 families was still in 42 relief camps in Alappuzha district, officials said. The government machinery was closely monitoring the water level in the Idukki reservoir, which stood at 2,396.28 feet today. The full level is 2,403 feet. The water level is related to the Mean Sea Level and catchment area. Most dams in the state were full and some of them were been opened to release excess water.

Donate generously for flood relief, says Kerala chief minister

The Lok Sabha on Thursday unanimously passed the Constitution 123rd Amendment Bill, 2017 which will grant a constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC).

All the members present in the lower house unanimously voted in favour of the bill with over two-third majority.

Speaking on the same, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, "I think that Backward Commission will be granted constitutional status as the bill (The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017) has been passed in Lok Sabha today. It was the commitment of the Prime Minister and he completed it."

Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed his delight over the unanimous voting in the favour of the bill and said, "We should all be grateful that at least on some issues of the developing the weaker section of our society, the country is united."

"It was a very good sign today of the unity in the Parliament on important issues reflecting the concerns about the backward section of our society. Today, we have seen every single party in the Lok Sabha unanimous," he added.

The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Thaawarchand Gehlot on April 5, 2017.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha on Thursday unanimously passed the Constitution 123rd Amendment Bill, 2017 which will grant a constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)

The Lok Sabha on Thursday unanimously passed the Constitution 123rd Amendment Bill, 2017 which will grant a constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). All the members present in the lower house unanimously voted in favour of the bill with over two-third majority. Speaking on the same, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, "I think that Backward Commission will be granted constitutional status as the bill (The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017) has been passed in Lok Sabha today. It was the commitment of the Prime Minister and he completed it." Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed his delight over the unanimous voting in the favour of the bill and said, "We should all be grateful that at least on some issues of the developing the weaker section of our society, the country is united." "It was a very good sign today of the unity in the Parliament on important issues reflecting the concerns about the backward section of our society. Today, we have seen every single party in the Lok Sabha unanimous," he added. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Thaawarchand Gehlot on April 5, 2017.

Lok Sabha passes bill to grant constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes

Jet Airways pilots and management are on a war path over salary reductions and possible job cuts at various departments, with the airline telling them that it might not be able to continue operations for more than two months, sources in the pilot community said.

However, Jet Airways today described reports that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jet-airways-will-not-be-able-to-fly-beyond-60-days-report-156677">airline cannot fly beyond 60 days</a> as "incorrect and malicious" as well as denied any talks of a stake sale.

Sources said the full-service carrier has also told the employees that the compulsory one-year notice period for captains would be done away with.

There are more than 16,000 employees at Jet Airways.

The airline said it is implementing several measures to reduce costs.

Earlier this week, the top management in a meeting with staff, including pilots, informed them that the airline is in a financially bad shape and sought their cooperation in reducing costs. The proposed steps include pay cuts, sources in the pilot community told PTI.

Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal, CEO Vinay Dubey and Deputy CEO Amit Agarwal, among others, were present at the meeting, the sources said.

At the meeting, the management also said that the airline might be left with revenues only to operate for not more than 60 days unless cost cutting measures are implemented, the sources added.

In a filing to the BSE, the airline said it is implementing several measures to reduce cost as well as realise higher revenues, for desired business efficiencies.

"Some of these areas include sales and distribution, payroll, and maintenance, among many others," it added.

Jet Airways' filing came in response to a clarification sought by the BSE on reports that the airline might not to able to fly beyond 60 days amid financial woes.

Shares of the airline tumbled 7 per cent to close at Rs 308 on the BSE today.

Amid concerns over its financials, Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dubey today said the aviation industry is passing through a tough phase due to mismatch between high fuel prices and low fares.

As per the filing, the company has been in dialogue with its key stakeholders, including pilots and engineers, to apprise them of the challenges being faced by the Indian aviation sector in general and the airline in particular.

This is to "enlist their full support and cooperation for realising necessary savings across all functions of the business", it added.

The Naresh Goyal-led airline, in which Gulf carrier Etihad holds 24 per cent stake, has already slashed by 25 per cent the salaries of its senior management, sources had said on Wednesday.

Senior management executives are those holding general manager post and above level positions.

Pilots have told the management that proposed pay cuts was not acceptable.

Engineers have also rejected the pay cut proposal, the sources said.

"Despite the high growth environment, the aviation industry is currently passing through a tough phase given a depreciating rupee and the mismatch between high fuel prices and low fares.

"Jet Airways has been in existence for over 25 years and through the years has been successful in combating such business volatility," Dube said in a statement.

He noted that the airline is well placed to be a part of the Indian aviation growth story.

"The company is committed to create a growth-oriented, sustainable future and a revitalized experience armed with the addition of 225 B737-MAX fuel efficient aircraft, which will be inducted in its fleet over the next decade, with 11 being inducted this fiscal," he said.

Jet Airways -- which completed 25 years of operations earlier this year -- had 16,558 permanent employees as on March 31, 2018.

Besides, there were a total of 6,306 temporary/ casual employees, as per the airline's annual report for 2017-18.&nbsp;

The airline however described reports that it cannot fly beyond 60 days as 'incorrect and malicious', and also denied any talk of a stake sale

Jet Airways pilots and management are on a war path over salary reductions and possible job cuts at various departments, with the airline telling them that it might not be able to continue operations for more than two months, sources in the pilot community said. However, Jet Airways today described reports that the airline cannot fly beyond 60 days as "incorrect and malicious" as well as denied any talks of a stake sale. Sources said the full-service carrier has also told the employees that the compulsory one-year notice period for captains would be done away with. There are more than 16,000 employees at Jet Airways. The airline said it is implementing several measures to reduce costs. Earlier this week, the top management in a meeting with staff, including pilots, informed them that the airline is in a financially bad shape and sought their cooperation in reducing costs. The proposed steps include pay cuts, sources in the pilot community told PTI. Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal, CEO Vinay Dubey and Deputy CEO Amit Agarwal, among others, were present at the meeting, the sources said. At the meeting, the management also said that the airline might be left with revenues only to operate for not more than 60 days unless cost cutting measures are implemented, the sources added. In a filing to the BSE, the airline said it is implementing several measures to reduce cost as well as realise higher revenues, for desired business efficiencies. "Some of these areas include sales and distribution, payroll, and maintenance, among many others," it added. Jet Airways' filing came in response to a clarification sought by the BSE on reports that the airline might not to able to fly beyond 60 days amid financial woes. Shares of the airline tumbled 7 per cent to close at Rs 308 on the BSE today. Amid concerns over its financials, Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dubey today said the aviation industry is passing through a tough phase due to mismatch between high fuel prices and low fares. As per the filing, the company has been in dialogue with its key stakeholders, including pilots and engineers, to apprise them of the challenges being faced by the Indian aviation sector in general and the airline in particular. This is to "enlist their full support and cooperation for realising necessary savings across all functions of the business", it added. The Naresh Goyal-led airline, in which Gulf carrier Etihad holds 24 per cent stake, has already slashed by 25 per cent the salaries of its senior management, sources had said on Wednesday. Senior management executives are those holding general manager post and above level positions. Pilots have told the management that proposed pay cuts was not acceptable. Engineers have also rejected the pay cut proposal, the sources said. "Despite the high growth environment, the aviation industry is currently passing through a tough phase given a depreciating rupee and the mismatch between high fuel prices and low fares. "Jet Airways has been in existence for over 25 years and through the years has been successful in combating such business volatility," Dube said in a statement. He noted that the airline is well placed to be a part of the Indian aviation growth story. "The company is committed to create a growth-oriented, sustainable future and a revitalized experience armed with the addition of 225 B737-MAX fuel efficient aircraft, which will be inducted in its fleet over the next decade, with 11 being inducted this fiscal," he said. Jet Airways -- which completed 25 years of operations earlier this year -- had 16,558 permanent employees as on March 31, 2018. Besides, there were a total of 6,306 temporary/ casual employees, as per the airline's annual report for 2017-18.

Pilots say Jet Airways locks horns with them over proposed pay cuts

Jet Airways (India) Ltd will be unable to fly beyond 60 days unless cost-cutting measures including pay cuts are put in place, and it has approached investment bankers again to help sell a stake in the carrier, local media reports said on Friday.

The management team, including Chairman Naresh Goyal, has informed employees in face-to-face meetings in recent days in Mumbai and Delhi that the airline's financials are in a bad shape and drastic measures needed to be taken to cut costs, a media reported, citing two company executives.

Jet Airways was not immediately available for comment when contacted by Reuters.

Shares of the company fell more than 5 per cent in early trade in Mumbai.

"In line with its stated focus of creating a healthier and a more resilient business, Jet Airways has been implementing several measures to help it reduce cost as well as realise higher revenues, for desired business efficiencies," the company said in response to a media report without specifically mentioning the 60-day deadline given to employees.

Separately, a&nbsp;newspaper reported that Jet Airways has approached investment bankers again to help sell a stake in the carrier, citing two people with direct knowledge of the matter.

The airline is facing several challenges including a surge in fuel prices, a weaker rupee and intensifying competition.

"Jet Airways is looking to raise immediate cash and the transaction may include Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal offloading a part of the promoter's stake in the company," one of the sources told Mint on condition of anonymity.

Earlier in the week, several media reported that Jet Airways had asked its employees to take a pay cut of up to 25 per cent due to rising costs.

The airline is facing several challenges including a surge in fuel prices, a weaker rupee and intensifying competition

Jet Airways (India) Ltd will be unable to fly beyond 60 days unless cost-cutting measures including pay cuts are put in place, and it has approached investment bankers again to help sell a stake in the carrier, local media reports said on Friday. The management team, including Chairman Naresh Goyal, has informed employees in face-to-face meetings in recent days in Mumbai and Delhi that the airline's financials are in a bad shape and drastic measures needed to be taken to cut costs, a media reported, citing two company executives. Jet Airways was not immediately available for comment when contacted by Reuters. Shares of the company fell more than 5 per cent in early trade in Mumbai. "In line with its stated focus of creating a healthier and a more resilient business, Jet Airways has been implementing several measures to help it reduce cost as well as realise higher revenues, for desired business efficiencies," the company said in response to a media report without specifically mentioning the 60-day deadline given to employees. Separately, a newspaper reported that Jet Airways has approached investment bankers again to help sell a stake in the carrier, citing two people with direct knowledge of the matter. The airline is facing several challenges including a surge in fuel prices, a weaker rupee and intensifying competition. "Jet Airways is looking to raise immediate cash and the transaction may include Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal offloading a part of the promoter's stake in the company," one of the sources told Mint on condition of anonymity. Earlier in the week, several media reported that Jet Airways had asked its employees to take a pay cut of up to 25 per cent due to rising costs.

Jet Airways will not be able to fly beyond 60 days: Report

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744">After </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744">Supreme</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744"> Court's 'surveillance state' remark, Centre says it is not </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744">setting</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744"> up </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744">social</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-sc-says-surveillance-state-centre-says-it-is-not-setting-up-social-media-hub-156744"> media hub</a>

The Centre told the Supreme Court on Friday that it was dropping its plan to set up a social media hub, which critics had alleged could be used to snoop on people's social media accounts.&nbsp

<a href="wionews.com/south-asia/suicide-bomb-kills-at-least-20-during-afghanistan-friday-prayers-police-156751">Afghanistan: </a><a href="wionews.com/south-asia/suicide-bomb-kills-at-least-20-during-afghanistan-friday-prayers-police-156751">Suicide</a><a href="wionews.com/south-asia/suicide-bomb-kills-at-least-20-during-afghanistan-friday-prayers-police-156751"> bomber kills at least 20 during Friday prayers, say police</a>

A suicide bomb attack near a Shi’ite mosque killed at least 20 people during Friday prayers in eastern Afghanistan, police and health officials said.

<a href="wionews.com/world/12-schools-attacked-in-one-night-in-northern-pakistan-156774">12 schools attacked in one night in northern Pakistan</a>

Twelve schools, half of them all-girls', have been burnt down by unidentified militants in coordinated attacks in Pakistan's restive Gilgit-Baltistan, triggering protest by local residents who sought safety for educational institutions which are often attacked by terrorists, officials said today.

<a href="wionews.com/world/hamas-leaders-to-meet-in-gaza-amid-israel-truce-reports-156764">Hamas leaders to meet in Gaza amid Israel truce reports</a>

The leadership of Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas is to convene Friday for a rare meeting, officials said, amid speculation of a long-term truce between the Gaza Strip's rulers and Israel.

<a href="wionews.com/world/china-says-it-wants-to-resolve-differences-with-us-on-equal-footing-156761">China says it wants to resolve differences with US 'on equal footing'</a>

China is willing to resolve differences with the United States on an equal footing, the Chinese government's top diplomat said on Friday after meeting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, but added they did not address their trade war too specifically.

&nbsp

After Supreme Court's 'surveillance state' remark, Centre says it is not setting up social media hub The Centre told the Supreme Court on Friday that it was dropping its plan to set up a social media hub, which critics had alleged could be used to snoop on people's social media accounts. Afghanistan: Suicide bomber kills at least 20 during Friday prayers, say police A suicide bomb attack near a Shi’ite mosque killed at least 20 people during Friday prayers in eastern Afghanistan, police and health officials said. 12 schools attacked in one night in northern Pakistan Twelve schools, half of them all-girls', have been burnt down by unidentified militants in coordinated attacks in Pakistan's restive Gilgit-Baltistan, triggering protest by local residents who sought safety for educational institutions which are often attacked by terrorists, officials said today. Hamas leaders to meet in Gaza amid Israel truce reports The leadership of Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas is to convene Friday for a rare meeting, officials said, amid speculation of a long-term truce between the Gaza Strip's rulers and Israel. China says it wants to resolve differences with US 'on equal footing' China is willing to resolve differences with the United States on an equal footing, the Chinese government's top diplomat said on Friday after meeting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, but added they did not address their trade war too specifically.

Four persons were killed and two others seriously injured when a truck ran over them and ploughed into a roadside eatery in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, police said on Friday.

The accident took place&nbspwhen the drivers of two trucks along with their helpers were cooking food on the roadside near Lai village on the Narsingpur-Chhindwara National Highway.

Three of the dead were from this group.

The truck driver responsible for the accident fled the spot.

The truck driver responsible for the accident fled the spot.

Four persons were killed and two others seriously injured when a truck ran over them and ploughed into a roadside eatery in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, police said on Friday. The accident took place&nbspwhen the drivers of two trucks along with their helpers were cooking food on the roadside near Lai village on the Narsingpur-Chhindwara National Highway. Three of the dead were from this group. The truck driver responsible for the accident fled the spot.

Four mowed down by truck in Madhya Pradesh

The Centre told the Supreme Court on Friday that it was dropping its plan to set up a social media hub, which critics had alleged could be used to snoop on people's social media accounts.&nbsp;

The Centre added that it would be completely reviewing its social media policy.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the submission of Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, that the government's social media notification was being withdrawn, and disposed of petitions challenging it.

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Trinamool Congress MLA Mahua Moitra alleging that the Centre's social media hub policy was to be used as a tool to monitor social media activities of the citizens and should be quashed.&nbsp;

The Trinamool Congress legislator from West Bengal had asked whether the government wants to tap citizens' messages on WhatsApp or other social media platforms.

Moitra had said the government had issued a Request For Proposal (RFP). She had said the tender would be opened on August 20 for a software which would carry out 360-degree monitoring on all social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter and Instagram and track e-mail contents.

In May this year, the Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL), a public sector undertaking under the ministry, had floated a tender to supply software for the project.

On July 13, the apex court had asked the government whether its move to create such a hub was to tap people's WhatsApp messages, and observed that it will be like creating a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/setting-up-of-social-media-hub-is-like-creating-surveillance-state-says-supreme-court-151320">surveillance state</a>".&nbsp;

Moitra's petition quoted the RFP as saying that the platform should "support easy management of conversational logs with each individual with capabilities to merge it across channels to help facilitate creating a 360 degree view of the people who are creating buzz across various topics".

The petition said the technology being requested is required to have the capability to listen to and collect data not only from social media platforms but also from e-mails.

"Specific capabilities mentioned include live search, monitoring, collecting, indexing and storage of personal data including location-based data and meta-data. The ability to monitor individual social media user/account is a specific mandate being given to the service provider," the PIL said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

The government added that it would completely review its social media policy. Critics had said the planned social media hub would be used as a tool to montionor people's social media accounts

The Centre told the Supreme Court on Friday that it was dropping its plan to set up a social media hub, which critics had alleged could be used to snoop on people's social media accounts. The Centre added that it would be completely reviewing its social media policy. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the submission of Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, that the government's social media notification was being withdrawn, and disposed of petitions challenging it. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Trinamool Congress MLA Mahua Moitra alleging that the Centre's social media hub policy was to be used as a tool to monitor social media activities of the citizens and should be quashed. The Trinamool Congress legislator from West Bengal had asked whether the government wants to tap citizens' messages on WhatsApp or other social media platforms. Moitra had said the government had issued a Request For Proposal (RFP). She had said the tender would be opened on August 20 for a software which would carry out 360-degree monitoring on all social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter and Instagram and track e-mail contents. In May this year, the Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL), a public sector undertaking under the ministry, had floated a tender to supply software for the project. On July 13, the apex court had asked the government whether its move to create such a hub was to tap people's WhatsApp messages, and observed that it will be like creating a "surveillance state". Moitra's petition quoted the RFP as saying that the platform should "support easy management of conversational logs with each individual with capabilities to merge it across channels to help facilitate creating a 360 degree view of the people who are creating buzz across various topics". The petition said the technology being requested is required to have the capability to listen to and collect data not only from social media platforms but also from e-mails. "Specific capabilities mentioned include live search, monitoring, collecting, indexing and storage of personal data including location-based data and meta-data. The ability to monitor individual social media user/account is a specific mandate being given to the service provider," the PIL said. (With inputs from PTI)

After Supreme Court's 'surveillance state' remark, Centre says it is not setting up social media hub

The Supreme Court is hearing a PIL challenging constitutional validity of Section 497 of Indian Penal Code. “When the sexual intercourse takes place with the consent of both the parties, there is no good reason for excluding one party from the liability,” the PIL says.

According to the adultery provision, if a married man has sexual intercourse with a married woman, without consent of her husband, that amounts to offence of adultery.&nbsp;

The law clearly treats married men and married women differently - the man is treated as the culprit and can be jailed for up to five years, but the woman can get away as the victim.

Another strange part is that the law permits woman's husband to file a complaint against the man she has sexual intercourse with, but there is no such provision for the wife of the adulterous man. She cannot file a complaint against her husband or the other woman.

There is more weirdness to it. Man's sexual relations with a widow, a sex worker or an unmarried woman is not considered an act of adultery. Wouldn't the man's wife be equally hurt irrespective of whether the other woman is a widow, unmarried woman or someone else's wife? Of course, it would still affect sanctity of marriage.

Another aspect of the provision, which has drawn strong criticism from the Supreme Court, says that no offence of adultery is made out if a married woman has sex with a consent from her husband. “If there is consent of husband, then there is no adultery which is absurd. This is another indicator of gender bias in which a woman is considered as chattel,” the court noted.

To make sleeping outside your wedlock an offence punishable under law is not wise. Both the partners are equally responsible to keep the sanctity of marriage intact. In some cases, a person is aware about his/her partner's relations outside marriage but they still choose to stay together - reasons for which may vary. And if someone is not okay with his/her spouse having sexual&nbsp;relations with the third person, that individual can make adultery a ground for seeking divorce.&nbsp;

Supreme Court has already stated that the law is apparently violative of right to equality. It should now simply go ahead and scrap the 158-year-old law that is "inherently flawed".

&nbsp; 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

According to the provision, if a married man has sexual intercourse with a married woman, without consent of her husband, that amounts to offence of adultery.

The Supreme Court is hearing a PIL challenging constitutional validity of Section 497 of Indian Penal Code. “When the sexual intercourse takes place with the consent of both the parties, there is no good reason for excluding one party from the liability,” the PIL says. According to the adultery provision, if a married man has sexual intercourse with a married woman, without consent of her husband, that amounts to offence of adultery. The law clearly treats married men and married women differently - the man is treated as the culprit and can be jailed for up to five years, but the woman can get away as the victim. Another strange part is that the law permits woman's husband to file a complaint against the man she has sexual intercourse with, but there is no such provision for the wife of the adulterous man. She cannot file a complaint against her husband or the other woman. There is more weirdness to it. Man's sexual relations with a widow, a sex worker or an unmarried woman is not considered an act of adultery. Wouldn't the man's wife be equally hurt irrespective of whether the other woman is a widow, unmarried woman or someone else's wife? Of course, it would still affect sanctity of marriage. Another aspect of the provision, which has drawn strong criticism from the Supreme Court, says that no offence of adultery is made out if a married woman has sex with a consent from her husband. “If there is consent of husband, then there is no adultery which is absurd. This is another indicator of gender bias in which a woman is considered as chattel,” the court noted. To make sleeping outside your wedlock an offence punishable under law is not wise. Both the partners are equally responsible to keep the sanctity of marriage intact. In some cases, a person is aware about his/her partner's relations outside marriage but they still choose to stay together - reasons for which may vary. And if someone is not okay with his/her spouse having sexual relations with the third person, that individual can make adultery a ground for seeking divorce. Supreme Court has already stated that the law is apparently violative of right to equality. It should now simply go ahead and scrap the 158-year-old law that is "inherently flawed". (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blog: Here's why the adultery law should be scrapped

The Congress today alleged that "shocking details" emerging from Antigua have "exposed the complicity and connivance" of the Modi government in the escape of fugitive billionaire Mehul Choksi to the Caribbean country.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala was reacting to media reports quoting Antiguan authorities as saying that Indian agencies had no adverse information against Choksi when the Caribbean country conducted a background check on the PNB scam accused before granting him citizenship in 2017.

"Loot and make them scoot is the prime policy of the&nbsp;Modi government. The shocking details reveal how the Modi government enacted this mega scam," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

Surjewala questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not raise the issue when he met his Antiguan counterpart Gaston Browne in April 2018.

He also alleged that the Ministry of External Affairs issued a clean chit to Choksi when there were complaints pending against him.

"Why did the CBI/ED not move the Interpol for a warrant against Mehul Choksi or provide the requisite evidence of criminal fraud against him? Is it not correct that this deliberate failure on part of CBI/ED in providing evidence to Interpol, led to Interpol giving a clean chit to Choksi?" he asked.

The Congress leader sought to know why the Prime Minister's Office did not act or direct the External Affairs Ministry, Central Bureau of Investigation, Enforcement Directorate, Securities and Exchange Board of India, Serious Fraud Investigation Office etc. To take action on two complaints dated May 7 and May 26, 2015.

"Why did not Prime Minister Narendra Modi raise the issue of citizenship during his meeting with Antigua PM Gaston Browne in April, 2018?" the Congress leader asked.

Surjewala alleged the agencies under the Modi government enabled the "great escape" of Choksi.

"Complicity and connivance of the Modi government in the escape of Rs 23,484-cr PNB scam accused Mehul Choksi, better described by PM Narendra Modi's 'hamare Mehul bhai', has been exposed.

"Shocking details from Antigua's Citizenship By Investment Unit have lifted the cover from the sins committed by every organ of the Modi government, PMO, MEA, CBI, SEBI etc that facilitated and gave a 'clean chit' to the fraudster," he alleged.

Surjewala said the development "also conclusively exposes the barrage of lies that ministers in the Modi government were trying to plant in the mainstream media".

The Congress leader said Choksi left India on January 4, 2018 and was already a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda since November 2017 "which gives him a visa-free access to travel around 132 nations".

Surjewala questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not raise the issue when he met his Antiguan counterpart Gaston Browne in April 2018.

The Congress today alleged that "shocking details" emerging from Antigua have "exposed the complicity and connivance" of the Modi government in the escape of fugitive billionaire Mehul Choksi to the Caribbean country. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala was reacting to media reports quoting Antiguan authorities as saying that Indian agencies had no adverse information against Choksi when the Caribbean country conducted a background check on the PNB scam accused before granting him citizenship in 2017. "Loot and make them scoot is the prime policy of the Modi government. The shocking details reveal how the Modi government enacted this mega scam," he said in a statement. Surjewala questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not raise the issue when he met his Antiguan counterpart Gaston Browne in April 2018. He also alleged that the Ministry of External Affairs issued a clean chit to Choksi when there were complaints pending against him. "Why did the CBI/ED not move the Interpol for a warrant against Mehul Choksi or provide the requisite evidence of criminal fraud against him? Is it not correct that this deliberate failure on part of CBI/ED in providing evidence to Interpol, led to Interpol giving a clean chit to Choksi?" he asked. The Congress leader sought to know why the Prime Minister's Office did not act or direct the External Affairs Ministry, Central Bureau of Investigation, Enforcement Directorate, Securities and Exchange Board of India, Serious Fraud Investigation Office etc. To take action on two complaints dated May 7 and May 26, 2015. "Why did not Prime Minister Narendra Modi raise the issue of citizenship during his meeting with Antigua PM Gaston Browne in April, 2018?" the Congress leader asked. Surjewala alleged the agencies under the Modi government enabled the "great escape" of Choksi. "Complicity and connivance of the Modi government in the escape of Rs 23,484-cr PNB scam accused Mehul Choksi, better described by PM Narendra Modi's 'hamare Mehul bhai', has been exposed. "Shocking details from Antigua's Citizenship By Investment Unit have lifted the cover from the sins committed by every organ of the Modi government, PMO, MEA, CBI, SEBI etc that facilitated and gave a 'clean chit' to the fraudster," he alleged. Surjewala said the development "also conclusively exposes the barrage of lies that ministers in the Modi government were trying to plant in the mainstream media". The Congress leader said Choksi left India on January 4, 2018 and was already a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda since November 2017 "which gives him a visa-free access to travel around 132 nations".

'Shocking details' expose complicity of Modi govt in escape of Choksi: Congress

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday alleged in the Lok Sabha that a senior executive of a prominent news channel and two other staffers had recently quit due to pressure from the government for airing stories critical of the ruling establishment.

Strongly refuting the charge, Information and Broadcasting Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said the government has nothing to do with the internal developments of the channel and the opposition was raising the matter as it has no issues to flag in the House, reported news agency PTI.

"No showcause notice was served on the channel when it was running wrong news. The government has nothing to do with it (the resignations)...The TRP (rating point) of the channel is going down," Rathore said.

Though Kharge named the channel and the executive who had quit, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the name of the private entity and its employees would not go on record.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Kharge alleged that the senior executive, who had served in the channel for 14 years, and the two other employees, were forced to quit following government pressure after it carried out a "reality check" on a claim by a woman farmer from Chhattisgarh during an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi that her farm income had doubled.

"It is unfortunate that the media is being targeted for doing its duty, for carrying out reality checks on the government's claim. The media is being intimidated. The Managing Editor (of the channel) was told to go. Two anchors of the channel were also asked to go," the leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha alleged.

Days after the woman had said during a video conferencing with Modi in June that her income had doubled, the channel had aired a story in which she said she was tutored by officials to make the comment.

After the story was telecast, the woman stuck to her remarks that her income had doubled as she had shifted from paddy cultivation to 'sitafal' (custard apple) farming and denied that she had been tutored.

"After the channel ran the reality check, the government put pressure on the channel. The owners of the channel were under pressure (to remove them).

"The Constitution has given the right to freedom of speech and expression... Attempts are being made to suppress the media which is not good," Kharge said.&nbsp;

Though Kharge named the channel and the executive who had quit, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the name of the private entity and its employees would not go on record.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday alleged in the Lok Sabha that a senior executive of a prominent news channel and two other staffers had recently quit due to pressure from the government for airing stories critical of the ruling establishment. Strongly refuting the charge, Information and Broadcasting Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said the government has nothing to do with the internal developments of the channel and the opposition was raising the matter as it has no issues to flag in the House, reported news agency PTI. "No showcause notice was served on the channel when it was running wrong news. The government has nothing to do with it (the resignations)...The TRP (rating point) of the channel is going down," Rathore said. Though Kharge named the channel and the executive who had quit, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the name of the private entity and its employees would not go on record. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Kharge alleged that the senior executive, who had served in the channel for 14 years, and the two other employees, were forced to quit following government pressure after it carried out a "reality check" on a claim by a woman farmer from Chhattisgarh during an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi that her farm income had doubled. "It is unfortunate that the media is being targeted for doing its duty, for carrying out reality checks on the government's claim. The media is being intimidated. The Managing Editor (of the channel) was told to go. Two anchors of the channel were also asked to go," the leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha alleged. Days after the woman had said during a video conferencing with Modi in June that her income had doubled, the channel had aired a story in which she said she was tutored by officials to make the comment. After the story was telecast, the woman stuck to her remarks that her income had doubled as she had shifted from paddy cultivation to 'sitafal' (custard apple) farming and denied that she had been tutored. "After the channel ran the reality check, the government put pressure on the channel. The owners of the channel were under pressure (to remove them). "The Constitution has given the right to freedom of speech and expression... Attempts are being made to suppress the media which is not good," Kharge said.

Congress alleges government hounding media; BJP minister refutes charges

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday broke his silence on <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/new-medical-reports-confirm-5-more-rapes-at-bihar-shelter-home-155527">Bihar shelter home case</a>, reported news agency PTI.

In his first reaction since the scandal broke last month, the CM also&nbsp;stressed on the need to develop institutional mechanisms to prevent such incidents from recurring.

Speaking at the launch of 'Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana', a scheme for welfare of girls, in Patna, Kumar said the alleged sex abuse of girls at the shelter home "has left us with a sense of shame and guilt".

"We have always said that the guilty would not be spared and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has said on the floor of the assembly that we would ourselves like the CBI probe to be monitored by the High Court," he said.&nbsp;

The chief minister said he has asked the state chief secretary to develop institutional mechanisms in consultation with the departments concerned to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.

Kumar came under severe criticism from the opposition party RJD and several other parties after the scandal broke out more than a month ago.

Earlier, Kumar ordered chief secretary, principal home secretary and DGP to hand over the investigation of the case to Central Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

Medical reports have suggested that more than half of the 40 girls, lodged at Muzaffarpur shelter home, may have had sexual intercourse at some point of time, police had said earlier. The inmates of the shelter home have also alleged that one of their fellow inmates was beaten to death and buried at the premises of the facility, while several others were raped.

Following the allegations, the Bihar Police has launched a probe and dug up the ground at the shelter home.

Speaking at the launch of 'Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana', a scheme for welfare of girls, in Patna, Kumar said the alleged sex abuse of girls at the shelter home "has left us with a sense of shame and guilt".

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday broke his silence on Bihar shelter home case, reported news agency PTI. In his first reaction since the scandal broke last month, the CM also stressed on the need to develop institutional mechanisms to prevent such incidents from recurring. Speaking at the launch of 'Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana', a scheme for welfare of girls, in Patna, Kumar said the alleged sex abuse of girls at the shelter home "has left us with a sense of shame and guilt". "We have always said that the guilty would not be spared and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has said on the floor of the assembly that we would ourselves like the CBI probe to be monitored by the High Court," he said. The chief minister said he has asked the state chief secretary to develop institutional mechanisms in consultation with the departments concerned to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. Kumar came under severe criticism from the opposition party RJD and several other parties after the scandal broke out more than a month ago. Earlier, Kumar ordered chief secretary, principal home secretary and DGP to hand over the investigation of the case to Central Bureau of Investigation. Medical reports have suggested that more than half of the 40 girls, lodged at Muzaffarpur shelter home, may have had sexual intercourse at some point of time, police had said earlier. The inmates of the shelter home have also alleged that one of their fellow inmates was beaten to death and buried at the premises of the facility, while several others were raped. Following the allegations, the Bihar Police has launched a probe and dug up the ground at the shelter home.

Nitish finally breaks his silence, says Bihar shelter home case 'has left us with sense of shame'

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday accused Trinamool Congress MPs of creating an "unruly situation" at the Silchar airport and said they were detained in view of intelligence inputs received by the Assam government on the law and order situation.

Six leaders of the Trinamool Congress were on Thursday detained at the Silchar airport while attempting to visit Assam post the publication of the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

The six leaders left Assam this morning after overnight detention at the airport.

The Trinamool Congress has said the detention and "manhandling" of their party colleagues at the Silchar airport shows there is an "undeclared emergency" in the country.

In the Lok Sabha, Singh said since there were prohibitory orders in Assam, state officials had "requested" TMC MPs to return from the airport itself.

''On August 2, TMC delegation was received at Silchar airport with full protocol. They were asked to go back but delegation engaged in an argument during which two women security personnel were injured, few passenger were also inconvenienced,'' Home Miniser Rajnath Singh said in Lok Sabha.

''Police arrested the delegation members under 151 CrPc and were made to halt the night at a guest house near Silchar airport. On Aug 3, the delegation members flew back to Delhi from Silchar. The situation was handled in a way that law & order can be maintained,'' he added.&nbsp

"The Government of Assam had some information and based on intelligence inputs... In view of the prevailing law and order situation and so the situation does not deteriorate, TMC MPs were detained at the Silchar airport," Singh added.

In his speech, Banerjee asked the Government if it was "afraid and nervous" because of the united force of the opposition in the run up to the 2019 general elections and hence had detained the MPs.

"Parliamentarians have been deprived of the right to assess the situation arising in the country. There was no injuction or interim order passed by the Supreme Court that political meetings cannot be held in Assam," Banerjee said.

Six Trinamool Congress MPs-- Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, Arpita Ghosh, Mamata Thakur, Ratna De Nag, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Nadimul Haque, and two West Bengal state ministers had reached Silchar yesterday afternoon to "assess and discuss" the problems of citizens in the aftermath of NRC.

The second list of the NRC, published earlier this week, has left out the names of over 40 lakh people, of which 85-90 per cent are Bengalis, Banerjee said.

Six leaders of the Trinamool Congress were on Thursday detained at the Silchar airport while attempting to visit Assam post the publication of the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday accused Trinamool Congress MPs of creating an "unruly situation" at the Silchar airport and said they were detained in view of intelligence inputs received by the Assam government on the law and order situation. Six leaders of the Trinamool Congress were on Thursday detained at the Silchar airport while attempting to visit Assam post the publication of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The six leaders left Assam this morning after overnight detention at the airport. The Trinamool Congress has said the detention and "manhandling" of their party colleagues at the Silchar airport shows there is an "undeclared emergency" in the country. In the Lok Sabha, Singh said since there were prohibitory orders in Assam, state officials had "requested" TMC MPs to return from the airport itself. ''On August 2, TMC delegation was received at Silchar airport with full protocol. They were asked to go back but delegation engaged in an argument during which two women security personnel were injured, few passenger were also inconvenienced,'' Home Miniser Rajnath Singh said in Lok Sabha. ''Police arrested the delegation members under 151 CrPc and were made to halt the night at a guest house near Silchar airport. On Aug 3, the delegation members flew back to Delhi from Silchar. The situation was handled in a way that law & order can be maintained,'' he added. "The Government of Assam had some information and based on intelligence inputs... In view of the prevailing law and order situation and so the situation does not deteriorate, TMC MPs were detained at the Silchar airport," Singh added. In his speech, Banerjee asked the Government if it was "afraid and nervous" because of the united force of the opposition in the run up to the 2019 general elections and hence had detained the MPs. "Parliamentarians have been deprived of the right to assess the situation arising in the country. There was no injuction or interim order passed by the Supreme Court that political meetings cannot be held in Assam," Banerjee said. Six Trinamool Congress MPs-- Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, Arpita Ghosh, Mamata Thakur, Ratna De Nag, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Nadimul Haque, and two West Bengal state ministers had reached Silchar yesterday afternoon to "assess and discuss" the problems of citizens in the aftermath of NRC. The second list of the NRC, published earlier this week, has left out the names of over 40 lakh people, of which 85-90 per cent are Bengalis, Banerjee said.

Trinamool MPs created unruly situation at Silchar airport, says Rajnath Singh

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