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An Indian abducted in Malaysia has been rescued by the police there and three Pakistani nationals have been arrested in connection with the case, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday.

The Indian national, identified as Sanjeev from Madhya Pradesh, was rescued by the Royal Malaysian Police yesterday.

"Abducted Sanjeev has been rescued. The Royal Malaysian Police has arrested three Pakistani abductors in the case. Indian ambassador Mridul (Kumar) and his team deserve praise," the minister tweeted.

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अपहृत संजीव को छुड़वा लिया गया है. इस केस में रॉयल मलेशियन पुलिस ने 3 पाकिस्तानी अपहरणकर्ताओं को गरिफ्तार किया है. भारतीय राजदूत श्री मृदुल और उनकी टीम इसके लिए बधाई की पात्र है. <a href="https://twitter.com/hcikl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hcikl</a> <a href="https://t.co/YNtOLMdhSH">https://t.co/YNtOLMdhSH</a>
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1023402908958642176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian High Commission in Malaysia, in a tweet, said, "Abducted boy Sanjeev got released from the abductors by the Royal Malaysian Police from Johor state on 28 July. Indian High Commission was in constant touch with police during the operation. Heartiest congratulations to the police authorities for speedy action".&nbsp;

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Abducted boy Sanjeev got released from the abductors by the Royal Malaysian Police from johor state on 28 July. Indian high Commission was in constant touch with police during the operation. Heartiest congratulations to the police authorities for speedy action.
— India in Malaysia (@hcikl) <a href="https://twitter.com/hcikl/status/1023409381793181698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also expressed his happiness over the rescue of Sanjeev and thanked the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian High Commission in Malaysia and the Royal Malaysian Police for their speedy action.&nbsp;

"Under the leadership of @SushmaSwaraj, safety & security of Indians living abroad is the topmost priority of our govt," he said on Twitter.&nbsp;

The Indian national, identified as Sanjeev from Madhya Pradesh, was rescued by the Royal Malaysian Police yesterday.

An Indian abducted in Malaysia has been rescued by the police there and three Pakistani nationals have been arrested in connection with the case, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday. The Indian national, identified as Sanjeev from Madhya Pradesh, was rescued by the Royal Malaysian Police yesterday. "Abducted Sanjeev has been rescued. The Royal Malaysian Police has arrested three Pakistani abductors in the case. Indian ambassador Mridul (Kumar) and his team deserve praise," the minister tweeted. अपहृत संजीव को छुड़वा लिया गया है. इस केस में रॉयल मलेशियन पुलिस ने 3 पाकिस्तानी अपहरणकर्ताओं को गरिफ्तार किया है. भारतीय राजदूत श्री मृदुल और उनकी टीम इसके लिए बधाई की पात्र है. @hcikl https://t.co/YNtOLMdhSH — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) July 29, 2018 × The Indian High Commission in Malaysia, in a tweet, said, "Abducted boy Sanjeev got released from the abductors by the Royal Malaysian Police from Johor state on 28 July. Indian High Commission was in constant touch with police during the operation. Heartiest congratulations to the police authorities for speedy action". Abducted boy Sanjeev got released from the abductors by the Royal Malaysian Police from johor state on 28 July. Indian high Commission was in constant touch with police during the operation. Heartiest congratulations to the police authorities for speedy action. — India in Malaysia (@hcikl) July 29, 2018 × Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also expressed his happiness over the rescue of Sanjeev and thanked the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian High Commission in Malaysia and the Royal Malaysian Police for their speedy action. "Under the leadership of @SushmaSwaraj, safety & security of Indians living abroad is the topmost priority of our govt," he said on Twitter.

Indian abducted in Malaysia rescued, 3 Pakistanis held: Swaraj

Amid talk of a larger Opposition unity, Mahagathbandhan, or a federal front, former Samajwadi Party&nbsp;leader and Rajya Sabha member Amar Singh is quietly weighing his options.&nbsp;

The fact is everyone in the Uttar Pradesh BJP is talking about Singh's newfound love for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Today, Amar Singh hit out at the Samajwadi Party and the BSP in Uttar Pradesh by dubbing them as “castiest” and said he would prefer to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

The expelled Samajwadi Party leader’s remarks came a day after Modi said Singh knew the people who interact with industrialists behind the curtains.

The prime minister, while launching projects in Lucknow yesterday, had attacked the opposition for claiming that he prefers to get clicked with industrialists.

Singh was present at the UP government event. “I believe in politics of sanity and sensitivity…There is no Congress in UP. It is a fringe player. The SP and BSP are the two sides of the same coin,” he said.&nbsp;

He said the two parties symbolise “castiest politics” and believe that secularism is appeasement of only one community. “It is for you to decide to prefer Modi and Yogi or ‘babua-bua’,” he said.

He calls SP chief Akhilesh Yadav as ‘babua’ (little boy). Akhilesh often calls BSP supremo Mayawati as ‘bua’ (his father’s sister). Singh, who was a Rajya Sabha MP from the SP, was expelled from the Akhilesh Yadav-led party last year.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Amar Singh today hit out at the Samajwadi Party and the BSP in Uttar Pradesh by dubbing them as "castiest" and said he would prefer to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Amid talk of a larger Opposition unity, Mahagathbandhan, or a federal front, former Samajwadi Party leader and Rajya Sabha member Amar Singh is quietly weighing his options. The fact is everyone in the Uttar Pradesh BJP is talking about Singh's newfound love for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Today, Amar Singh hit out at the Samajwadi Party and the BSP in Uttar Pradesh by dubbing them as “castiest” and said he would prefer to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The expelled Samajwadi Party leader’s remarks came a day after Modi said Singh knew the people who interact with industrialists behind the curtains. The prime minister, while launching projects in Lucknow yesterday, had attacked the opposition for claiming that he prefers to get clicked with industrialists. Singh was present at the UP government event. “I believe in politics of sanity and sensitivity…There is no Congress in UP. It is a fringe player. The SP and BSP are the two sides of the same coin,” he said. He said the two parties symbolise “castiest politics” and believe that secularism is appeasement of only one community. “It is for you to decide to prefer Modi and Yogi or ‘babua-bua’,” he said. He calls SP chief Akhilesh Yadav as ‘babua’ (little boy). Akhilesh often calls BSP supremo Mayawati as ‘bua’ (his father’s sister). Singh, who was a Rajya Sabha MP from the SP, was expelled from the Akhilesh Yadav-led party last year. (With inputs from Agencies)

Would prefer Modi-Yogi than ‘casteist’ SP-BSP, says Amar Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Pakistan's Imran Khan Monday and congratulated him on his election win.&nbsp;Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf had emerged as the largest party after last Wednesday's elections.&nbsp;

In his conversation with Khan, Modi expressed the hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Modi also reiterated his vision of peace and development in the South Asian neighbourhood.&nbsp;

Khan had in his first speech after his election win said that he wanted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-promises-a-new-pakistan-calls-for-good-relations-with-india-154815">good relations with India</a>, better trade ties, and a resolution of the Kashmir dispute.&nbsp;

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> spoke to Mr. Imran Khan, Chairperson of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf Party. <a href="https://t.co/fQHNLd7QTm">pic.twitter.com/fQHNLd7QTm</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1023970339657678848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also promised wide-ranging reform in Pakistan, saying all his policies would henceforth be designed for the poor and not for a tiny, rich elite.&nbsp;

Khan added that no country with a "sea of poor people and an island of rich people" could succeed.&nbsp;

He added that he had got into politics to build the sort of country that Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisioned. The sort of country that existed in seventh-century Madina, where even the destitute were looked after.&nbsp;

He also said that he <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/will-not-live-in-lavish-pm-house-will-live-humbly-says-imran-154851">would not live</a> in the prime minister's official residence.

Khan said he would be ashamed to live in such a palatial home when there was so much poverty in the country.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Modi, in his call with Khan, expressed the hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Pakistan's Imran Khan Monday and congratulated him on his election win. Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf had emerged as the largest party after last Wednesday's elections. In his conversation with Khan, Modi expressed the hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan. Modi also reiterated his vision of peace and development in the South Asian neighbourhood. Khan had in his first speech after his election win said that he wanted good relations with India, better trade ties, and a resolution of the Kashmir dispute. PM @narendramodi spoke to Mr. Imran Khan, Chairperson of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf Party. pic.twitter.com/fQHNLd7QTm — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) July 30, 2018 × He also promised wide-ranging reform in Pakistan, saying all his policies would henceforth be designed for the poor and not for a tiny, rich elite. Khan added that no country with a "sea of poor people and an island of rich people" could succeed. He added that he had got into politics to build the sort of country that Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisioned. The sort of country that existed in seventh-century Madina, where even the destitute were looked after. He also said that he would not live in the prime minister's official residence. Khan said he would be ashamed to live in such a palatial home when there was so much poverty in the country.

Modi calls Imran Khan, expresses hope 'democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan'

Senior Congress leader and former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram today lashed out at the Narendra Modi government at the Centre, terming it 'incompetent' in terms of economic management.

Slamming the government's economic measures like demonetisation and Goods and Service Tax in its four years and two months of existence, he said, "we are now worried what will happen in the next eight months." 
The Lok Sabha elections will be held next year.

Reeling out statistics at a seminar titled 'Challenges Facing India' here, also attended by Left leaders Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, Chidambaram alleged that there has been a dip in the country's growth rate over the years due to lesser investment and lower lending by banks.

He said countries bigger in terms of GDP size like the U.S. And China were doing well even as India was suffering from slow growth and issues like unemployment, spurred by steps like demonetisation.

The note ban, for instance, had severely impacted the Micro Small Medium Enterprises sector, he said and referred to recent reports that about 50,000 such units had closed down in Tamil Nadu post the ban on the high value notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500.

This was the case in many other Indian cities, he added.

Further, the Indian Rupee was becoming weaker against the U.S. Dollar, he said, adding that if this continued, it would lead to increase in import costs, price rise and hike in interest rate, among others.

The Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) stood at about Rs 10 lakh crore, he said, even while insisting that banks were now hesitant to lend.

"In terms of economic management, this (BJP-led NDA) is an incompetent government," he charged.

If the present economic condition continues, "the government will lose its self-confidence and start going haywire," the former Union Minister added.

The solution for the country's economic problems lay in the hands of the people and they should vote out the BJP government in next year's elections, he said.

"All that is required is the next government should not go haywire" on the economy, he said.

The earlier Congress-led UPA government had ushered good growth, even touching the eight per cent mark, he said.

"Mistakes did happen (during UPA) but it did good things to people as regards economic management," he said.

Yechury, the CPI(M) General Secretary, said the concept of Indian nationhood was now being "challenged."

"There is not a single concept of Indian nationhood that is not assaulted...Targeting Muslims and Dalits, killings in the name of cow protection-- all are happening with state patronage," he charged.

CPI National Secretary Raja alleged that after the BJP came to power, "RSS has come to the political centre stage."

"RSS' agenda is to shatter the Constitution.. What will happen to the poor people if the Constitution is changed?" he asked.

People should remove the "anti-people" Modi government to "save the country" in the next elections, he said.

DMK MP Tiruchy Siva alleged the Central government was making attempts to snatch away various rights of the states.

Chidambaram alleged that there has been a dip in the country's growth rate over the years due to lesser investment and lower lending by banks.

Senior Congress leader and former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram today lashed out at the Narendra Modi government at the Centre, terming it 'incompetent' in terms of economic management. Slamming the government's economic measures like demonetisation and Goods and Service Tax in its four years and two months of existence, he said, "we are now worried what will happen in the next eight months." The Lok Sabha elections will be held next year. Reeling out statistics at a seminar titled 'Challenges Facing India' here, also attended by Left leaders Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, Chidambaram alleged that there has been a dip in the country's growth rate over the years due to lesser investment and lower lending by banks. He said countries bigger in terms of GDP size like the U.S. And China were doing well even as India was suffering from slow growth and issues like unemployment, spurred by steps like demonetisation. The note ban, for instance, had severely impacted the Micro Small Medium Enterprises sector, he said and referred to recent reports that about 50,000 such units had closed down in Tamil Nadu post the ban on the high value notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500. This was the case in many other Indian cities, he added. Further, the Indian Rupee was becoming weaker against the U.S. Dollar, he said, adding that if this continued, it would lead to increase in import costs, price rise and hike in interest rate, among others. The Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) stood at about Rs 10 lakh crore, he said, even while insisting that banks were now hesitant to lend. "In terms of economic management, this (BJP-led NDA) is an incompetent government," he charged. If the present economic condition continues, "the government will lose its self-confidence and start going haywire," the former Union Minister added. The solution for the country's economic problems lay in the hands of the people and they should vote out the BJP government in next year's elections, he said. "All that is required is the next government should not go haywire" on the economy, he said. The earlier Congress-led UPA government had ushered good growth, even touching the eight per cent mark, he said. "Mistakes did happen (during UPA) but it did good things to people as regards economic management," he said. Yechury, the CPI(M) General Secretary, said the concept of Indian nationhood was now being "challenged." "There is not a single concept of Indian nationhood that is not assaulted...Targeting Muslims and Dalits, killings in the name of cow protection-- all are happening with state patronage," he charged. CPI National Secretary Raja alleged that after the BJP came to power, "RSS has come to the political centre stage." "RSS' agenda is to shatter the Constitution.. What will happen to the poor people if the Constitution is changed?" he asked. People should remove the "anti-people" Modi government to "save the country" in the next elections, he said. DMK MP Tiruchy Siva alleged the Central government was making attempts to snatch away various rights of the states.

Modi government incompetent in terms of economic management: Chidambaram

DMK president M Karunanidhi, who is being treated at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital, is recovering and is under keen observation of the doctors.&nbsp;

Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his ailing father's condition is now stable as stated in the medical bulletin that was released by the hospital authorities on Sunday.

According to reports, DMK working president MK Stalin said at an interview that DMK supremo Karunanidhi's health is stable and that doctors are monitoring his condition at the hospital.

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He continues to be under keen observation of the doctors. M Karunanidhi's condition is stable as stated in yesterday's medical bulletin: DMK working President MK Stalin <a href="https://t.co/A6R45fc006">pic.twitter.com/A6R45fc006</a>
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Emotions oscillate between hope and despair as hundreds of DMK supporters outside the Kauvery Hospital pray for the life of party chief M Karunanidhi, who is admitted to the intensive care unit since early Saturday.

Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his ailing father's condition is now stable as stated in the medical bulletin that was released by the hospital authorities on Sunday.

DMK president M Karunanidhi, who is being treated at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital, is recovering and is under keen observation of the doctors. Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his ailing father's condition is now stable as stated in the medical bulletin that was released by the hospital authorities on Sunday. According to reports, DMK working president MK Stalin said at an interview that DMK supremo Karunanidhi's health is stable and that doctors are monitoring his condition at the hospital. He continues to be under keen observation of the doctors. M Karunanidhi's condition is stable as stated in yesterday's medical bulletin: DMK working President MK Stalin pic.twitter.com/A6R45fc006 — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × Emotions oscillate between hope and despair as hundreds of DMK supporters outside the Kauvery Hospital pray for the life of party chief M Karunanidhi, who is admitted to the intensive care unit since early Saturday.

DMK chief Karunanidhi under keen observation, condition stable, says MK Stalin

The Censor Board of Film Certification (CBEF) had previously ordered the makers of Mission Impossible: Fallout to remove the visuals of maps misrepresenting the boundaries of Jammu and Kashmir, and the word 'India-occupied Kashmir', reports said.&nbsp;

A circular issued by Central Board of Film Certification dated July 19 asked the makers to remove the title card at the beginning of the sequence from the movie.&nbsp;

As per reports, there were four changes made before it hit the cinemas.&nbsp;

In the movie, one of the scenes shows a portion of the Southeast Asia map after which it jumps to a different scene showing Tom Cruise driving in the mountains.&nbsp;

The film's climax is supposed to be based in India where British anarchist Solomon Lane has stored nuclear weapons in the valley that he plans on detonating. The version that released in India does not identify the region where this action takes place.&nbsp;

Reports say that the scene which was omitted from the film showed a significant mention of Kashmir, Pakistan and China.

The reason behind the removal was to not raise issues with the Indian audience and their expectations, media reports mentioned.

Further, the maker of the film Christopher McQuarrie said that he had plans of shooting in India but failed to get permission and had to opt for New Zealand. &nbsp;

In the movie, one of the scenes shows a portion of the Southeast Asia map after which it jumps to a different scene showing Tom Cruise driving in the mountains.

The Censor Board of Film Certification (CBEF) had previously ordered the makers of Mission Impossible: Fallout to remove the visuals of maps misrepresenting the boundaries of Jammu and Kashmir, and the word 'India-occupied Kashmir', reports said. A circular issued by Central Board of Film Certification dated July 19 asked the makers to remove the title card at the beginning of the sequence from the movie. As per reports, there were four changes made before it hit the cinemas. In the movie, one of the scenes shows a portion of the Southeast Asia map after which it jumps to a different scene showing Tom Cruise driving in the mountains. The film's climax is supposed to be based in India where British anarchist Solomon Lane has stored nuclear weapons in the valley that he plans on detonating. The version that released in India does not identify the region where this action takes place. Reports say that the scene which was omitted from the film showed a significant mention of Kashmir, Pakistan and China. The reason behind the removal was to not raise issues with the Indian audience and their expectations, media reports mentioned. Further, the maker of the film Christopher McQuarrie said that he had plans of shooting in India but failed to get permission and had to opt for New Zealand.

Mission Impossible: Fallout makers deleted scenes of Kashmir in India theatrical version

Rashtriya Janata Dal supremo Lalu Prasad has been summoned by a Delhi court in connection to the IRCTC scam. His wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav are also accused in the case and have been summoned to the court.&nbsp;

In April this year, the CBI had filed a charge sheet against two companies and 12 people, including former railway minister Lalu Prasad, his wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav for alleged involvement in the IRCTC scam, PTI reported.

The case involves alleged irregularities in grant of an operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurugram in connection with the case.

The charge sheet said that between 2004 and 2014, a conspiracy was hatched in pursuance of which BNR hotels of Indian Railways, located at Puri and Ranchi, were first transferred to the IRCTC and later for its operations, maintenance and upkeep, it was given on lease to a private firm Sujata Hotel Private Limited based in Patna.

It alleged that the tender process was rigged and manipulated and the conditions were tweaked to help the private party (Sujata Hotels).

Lalu Yadav, the then railway minister, allegedly entered into criminal conspiracy with owners of Sujata hotels, Sarla Gupta, wife of his close associate Prem Chand Gupta, an RJD MP in Rajya Sabha, and IRCTC officials for "undue pecuniary advantage to himself and others", the CBI FIR had alleged.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The case involves alleged irregularities in grant of an operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

Rashtriya Janata Dal supremo Lalu Prasad has been summoned by a Delhi court in connection to the IRCTC scam. His wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav are also accused in the case and have been summoned to the court. In April this year, the CBI had filed a charge sheet against two companies and 12 people, including former railway minister Lalu Prasad, his wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav for alleged involvement in the IRCTC scam, PTI reported. The case involves alleged irregularities in grant of an operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm. The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurugram in connection with the case. The charge sheet said that between 2004 and 2014, a conspiracy was hatched in pursuance of which BNR hotels of Indian Railways, located at Puri and Ranchi, were first transferred to the IRCTC and later for its operations, maintenance and upkeep, it was given on lease to a private firm Sujata Hotel Private Limited based in Patna. It alleged that the tender process was rigged and manipulated and the conditions were tweaked to help the private party (Sujata Hotels). Lalu Yadav, the then railway minister, allegedly entered into criminal conspiracy with owners of Sujata hotels, Sarla Gupta, wife of his close associate Prem Chand Gupta, an RJD MP in Rajya Sabha, and IRCTC officials for "undue pecuniary advantage to himself and others", the CBI FIR had alleged. (With inputs from PTI)

IRCTC scam: Delhi court summons Lalu Yadav, wife Rabri and son Tejashwi 

The government of Assam will soon roll out a law that will make it mandatory for all state government employees to take care of their aged and dependent parents.

The law also includes differently-abled siblings who do not have a source of income besides aged, dependent parents, ANI reported.&nbsp;

"If a particular government employee does not take good care of his or her parents then we will deduct 10 per cent from their salary and transfer it to their parents' account," minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated.

"If there is any sibling that the parents need to take care of then the salary cut may go up to 15%," Biswa said.

Assam state assembly, last year, passed Assam Employees Parents Responsibility and Norms for Accountability and Monitoring (PRANAM) Bill, 2017.&nbsp;

The law will come into effect from 2 October.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The law will come into effect from 2 October

The government of Assam will soon roll out a law that will make it mandatory for all state government employees to take care of their aged and dependent parents. The law also includes differently-abled siblings who do not have a source of income besides aged, dependent parents, ANI reported. "If a particular government employee does not take good care of his or her parents then we will deduct 10 per cent from their salary and transfer it to their parents' account," minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated. "If there is any sibling that the parents need to take care of then the salary cut may go up to 15%," Biswa said. Assam state assembly, last year, passed Assam Employees Parents Responsibility and Norms for Accountability and Monitoring (PRANAM) Bill, 2017. The law will come into effect from 2 October. (With inputs from ANI)

Take care of aged parents or face salary cut: New law to Assam state govt employees

In an official statement issued by Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal's office, it is stated that that the draft rules, put out for public suggestions by the Committee, prescribes a "reporting mechanism for CCTVs and NOT a licensing mechanism".

"It is learnt from various media reports that some misconception is being spread about the draft rules for the regulation of installation of CCTVs that the draft rules prescribe a licensing mechanism," the statement read.&nbsp;

LG's statement further noted that over than two lakh cameras have already been installed in the city without coordination which calls for "the need for a proper framework and information mechanism so that all CCTVs in public places installed in Delhi work optimally".

The statement cited past incidents where CCTV cameras have been misused to "violate the privacy of individuals" because of which regulatory/policy framework for installation and operation of CCTVs become necessary.&nbsp;

It reiterated that the rules are "only at a draft stage" and have been "put out in public domain for suggestions/clarifications".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-rips-lieutenant-governors-report-on-cctv-cameras-155577">tore Baijal's report on CCTV cameras</a> in Delhi. Slamming the report, Kejriwal said, "The report of LG's committee whose members are police personnel, says if someone installs CCTV cameras in Delhi, even with their own money, they will have to get the license from the police. License means 'paisa chadhao, license le jaao' (give money and take license)." 
&nbsp;

LG's statement further noted that over than two lakh cameras have already been installed in the city without coordination.

In an official statement issued by Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal's office, it is stated that that the draft rules, put out for public suggestions by the Committee, prescribes a "reporting mechanism for CCTVs and NOT a licensing mechanism". "It is learnt from various media reports that some misconception is being spread about the draft rules for the regulation of installation of CCTVs that the draft rules prescribe a licensing mechanism," the statement read. LG's statement further noted that over than two lakh cameras have already been installed in the city without coordination which calls for "the need for a proper framework and information mechanism so that all CCTVs in public places installed in Delhi work optimally". The statement cited past incidents where CCTV cameras have been misused to "violate the privacy of individuals" because of which regulatory/policy framework for installation and operation of CCTVs become necessary. It reiterated that the rules are "only at a draft stage" and have been "put out in public domain for suggestions/clarifications". Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tore Baijal's report on CCTV cameras in Delhi. Slamming the report, Kejriwal said, "The report of LG's committee whose members are police personnel, says if someone installs CCTV cameras in Delhi, even with their own money, they will have to get the license from the police. License means 'paisa chadhao, license le jaao' (give money and take license)."

Draft rules on CCTVs in Delhi suggest reporting mechanism, not licensing: LG Anil Baijal

A group of terrorists on Sunday killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan in South Kashmir's Pulwama.

The deceased, Naseer Ahmed, belonged to 134 Batallion of CRPF. The authorities are investigating the case, further details are awaited.

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Family of CRPF jawan Naseer Ahmed mourns his demise. Ahmed passed away after he was shot at by terrorists in Pulwama yesterday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/giT5sZnRGw">pic.twitter.com/giT5sZnRGw</a>
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In another incident, a civilian and one security guard were injured after two terrorists barged into a bank and opened fire in south Kashmir's Kulgam district.&nbsp

In an alleged attempt to loot the bank, a group of terrorists forced their entry into the Mohamadpora branch of Jammu and Kashmir Bank.

A day earlier, on Thursday, five security personnel got injured after in a terrorist grenade at a CRPF bunker in Bijbehara town of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

The deceased, Naseer Ahmed, belonged to 134 Batallion of CRPF.

A group of terrorists on Sunday killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan in South Kashmir's Pulwama. The deceased, Naseer Ahmed, belonged to 134 Batallion of CRPF. The authorities are investigating the case, further details are awaited. Family of CRPF jawan Naseer Ahmed mourns his demise. Ahmed passed away after he was shot at by terrorists in Pulwama yesterday. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/giT5sZnRGw — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × In another incident, a civilian and one security guard were injured after two terrorists barged into a bank and opened fire in south Kashmir's Kulgam district. In an alleged attempt to loot the bank, a group of terrorists forced their entry into the Mohamadpora branch of Jammu and Kashmir Bank. A day earlier, on Thursday, five security personnel got injured after in a terrorist grenade at a CRPF bunker in Bijbehara town of Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorist attack kills CRPF jawaan in Pulwama 

The Lok Sabha on Monday passed the landmark Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018.

The bill provides for stringent punishment, including the death penalty for the rape of a child below 12 years of age.

The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill seeks to replace the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance promulgated on April 21 following an outcry over the gang rape and murder of a minor girl in Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir and the rape of a woman in Unnao in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Although the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018 was supported by most members across the political spectrum and passed by a voice vote, some in the Opposition objected to the government adopting the ordinance route to enact the law.&nbsp;

Replying to an over two-hour discussion on the bill, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said the stringent law was aimed at providing safety to minor girls.&nbsp;

"New provision proposes that court, where rape cases are trialled, should be presided by a woman judge. The statement in rape cases should be recorded by a woman police officer," said Kiren Rijiju during the discussion on The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018.

Rijiju said the Indian Penal Code provided for punishment for those convicted of raping a woman, but there was no specific provision for the rape or gang rape of minor girls below 16 or 12 years of age. These are "very important provisions" which the government has proposed, Rijiju said.&nbsp;

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi opposed the bills saying a "law cannot stop the rape of children, change of men's mentality can."&nbsp;

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Law cannot stop the rape of children, change of men's mentality can: Asaduddin Owaisi in Lok Sabha during discussion on The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MonsoonSession?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MonsoonSession</a> <a href="https://t.co/GeuyFUur3B">pic.twitter.com/GeuyFUur3B</a>
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BJD MP Pinaki Misra suggested that the bill should have been sent to a standing or select committee and added that its structure requires further improvement.

NCP member Supriya Sule, expressing concern over the rising number of rapes in the country, asked whether "we are becoming regressive" as a society.&nbsp;

Several states including Haryana and Rajasthan have already passed similar laws in their assemblies.

Replying to an over two-hour discussion on the measure, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said the stringent law was aimed at providing safety to minor girls.

The Lok Sabha on Monday passed the landmark Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018. The bill provides for stringent punishment, including the death penalty for the rape of a child below 12 years of age. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill seeks to replace the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance promulgated on April 21 following an outcry over the gang rape and murder of a minor girl in Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir and the rape of a woman in Unnao in Uttar Pradesh. Although the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018 was supported by most members across the political spectrum and passed by a voice vote, some in the Opposition objected to the government adopting the ordinance route to enact the law. Replying to an over two-hour discussion on the bill, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said the stringent law was aimed at providing safety to minor girls. "New provision proposes that court, where rape cases are trialled, should be presided by a woman judge. The statement in rape cases should be recorded by a woman police officer," said Kiren Rijiju during the discussion on The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018. Rijiju said the Indian Penal Code provided for punishment for those convicted of raping a woman, but there was no specific provision for the rape or gang rape of minor girls below 16 or 12 years of age. These are "very important provisions" which the government has proposed, Rijiju said. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi opposed the bills saying a "law cannot stop the rape of children, change of men's mentality can." Law cannot stop the rape of children, change of men's mentality can: Asaduddin Owaisi in Lok Sabha during discussion on The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2018. #MonsoonSession pic.twitter.com/GeuyFUur3B — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × BJD MP Pinaki Misra suggested that the bill should have been sent to a standing or select committee and added that its structure requires further improvement. NCP member Supriya Sule, expressing concern over the rising number of rapes in the country, asked whether "we are becoming regressive" as a society. Several states including Haryana and Rajasthan have already passed similar laws in their assemblies.

Criminal Law Amendment Bill which proposes death penalty for child rape passed in Lok Sabha

In a move to send out illegal immigrants from the country the Indian state of Assam has published its final draft of the National Resister of citizens. the list includes those who are legal citizens of India.

WION Dispatch: India's challenge of undocumented immigrants

Indian American Seema Nanda, who took over as CEO of the opposition Democratic National Committee last week, has vowed to fight for the "soul of the country" and help elect Democrats in every corner of the US.

"We are fighting now for the soul of our country -- for our democracy and for opportunity," Nanda, the first Indian American ever to be CEO of either the DNC or the Republican National Committee took over reigns of the main opposition party last week on July 23. In this capacity, she is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the powerful DNC.

"Democrats are offering the positive solutions so desperately needed right now -- solutions forged by the strength of our diversity, the rigour of our ideas, and the decency of our values. Since Trump took office, it's been clear that the number one best way for us to set our country back on track is to elect Democrats in every corner of our country. That's why I took this job," Nanda said in her first message to Democratic supporters.

Nanda said supporting the Democratic party is synonymous with building a future for the children that they can be proud of. "My promise to my two teenage boys is to do all I can to create an America that is bright, fair, and that works for everyone -- where an opportunity for all means something," she said.

"Our party is strong because it's built on forging positive solutions that include everyone. I'm proud to be the first Asian American in recent memory to lead the DNC. Democrats are leading with our values and empowering people from diverse backgrounds to speak up and make our voices heard," Nanda said.

The fight to take back the country for working families is one that all must fight together, she said, adding "At the DNC, we have committed to helping Democrats win back seats at all levels of government because we need Democrats from the school board to the Senate to take back our country".

Noting that everything is at stake with this year's midterms, Nanda said Democrats are investing in state parties, putting organisers on the ground in all 50 states, and mobilising 50 million voters by November through their nationwide 'IWillVote' campaign.

"We're setting our sights and our goals higher than ever before in order to help Democratic leaders fight and win all across our country," Nanda said.

Nanda said supporting the Democratic party is synonymous with building a future for the children that they can be proud of.

Indian American Seema Nanda, who took over as CEO of the opposition Democratic National Committee last week, has vowed to fight for the "soul of the country" and help elect Democrats in every corner of the US. "We are fighting now for the soul of our country -- for our democracy and for opportunity," Nanda, the first Indian American ever to be CEO of either the DNC or the Republican National Committee took over reigns of the main opposition party last week on July 23. In this capacity, she is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the powerful DNC. "Democrats are offering the positive solutions so desperately needed right now -- solutions forged by the strength of our diversity, the rigour of our ideas, and the decency of our values. Since Trump took office, it's been clear that the number one best way for us to set our country back on track is to elect Democrats in every corner of our country. That's why I took this job," Nanda said in her first message to Democratic supporters. Nanda said supporting the Democratic party is synonymous with building a future for the children that they can be proud of. "My promise to my two teenage boys is to do all I can to create an America that is bright, fair, and that works for everyone -- where an opportunity for all means something," she said. "Our party is strong because it's built on forging positive solutions that include everyone. I'm proud to be the first Asian American in recent memory to lead the DNC. Democrats are leading with our values and empowering people from diverse backgrounds to speak up and make our voices heard," Nanda said. The fight to take back the country for working families is one that all must fight together, she said, adding "At the DNC, we have committed to helping Democrats win back seats at all levels of government because we need Democrats from the school board to the Senate to take back our country". Noting that everything is at stake with this year's midterms, Nanda said Democrats are investing in state parties, putting organisers on the ground in all 50 states, and mobilising 50 million voters by November through their nationwide 'IWillVote' campaign. "We're setting our sights and our goals higher than ever before in order to help Democratic leaders fight and win all across our country," Nanda said.

Indian American Seema Nanda becomes CEO of US Democratic party

The Supreme Court has said the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Dawoodi Bohra community is violative of Article 21 and Article 15 of the Constitution that guarantees protection of life and personal liberty and prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.

SC: Female genital mutilation must struck down

The Sai Baba temple at Shirdi received donations worth Rs 6.4 crore during the recent ‘Guru Poornima’ festival, an increase of Rs 1 crore as compared to last year.&nbsp

According to news agency ANI, the donations include Rs 13.83 lakh in jewellery, Rs 6.41 in cash, and Rs 11.25 in foreign currency.&nbsp

Guru Purnima was celebrated with religious fervour across the nation on July 27.

The day is celebrated at various temples where devotees offer their prayers to the lord they see as their eternal Guru. In Shirdi, Sai Baba's revered temple, the day calls for huge celebrations.

It's a 3-day affair which begins on Guru Purnima and people from across the world visit Shirdi Temple to seek the blessings of the Lord.

Sai Baba is seen as a guru, spiritual saint or even satguru by devotees. Shirdi Sai Baba took samadhi on October 15, 1918.

Guru Purnima is celebrated at Shirdi before the commencement of lunar eclipse that started before midnight on July 27, 2018.

For Hindus, Guru Purnima, which is observed on a full moon day of Ashadha month, holds special significance as on this day spiritual and academic teachers are remembered by all.

Last year, the temple received a donation of Rs 5.52 crore from devotees both from the country and abroad.

Guru Purnima was celebrated with religious fervour across the nation on July 27.

The Sai Baba temple at Shirdi received donations worth Rs 6.4 crore during the recent ‘Guru Poornima’ festival, an increase of Rs 1 crore as compared to last year. According to news agency ANI, the donations include Rs 13.83 lakh in jewellery, Rs 6.41 in cash, and Rs 11.25 in foreign currency. Guru Purnima was celebrated with religious fervour across the nation on July 27. The day is celebrated at various temples where devotees offer their prayers to the lord they see as their eternal Guru. In Shirdi, Sai Baba's revered temple, the day calls for huge celebrations. It's a 3-day affair which begins on Guru Purnima and people from across the world visit Shirdi Temple to seek the blessings of the Lord. Sai Baba is seen as a guru, spiritual saint or even satguru by devotees. Shirdi Sai Baba took samadhi on October 15, 1918. Guru Purnima is celebrated at Shirdi before the commencement of lunar eclipse that started before midnight on July 27, 2018. For Hindus, Guru Purnima, which is observed on a full moon day of Ashadha month, holds special significance as on this day spiritual and academic teachers are remembered by all. Last year, the temple received a donation of Rs 5.52 crore from devotees both from the country and abroad.

Shirdi Saibaba temple gets Rs 6.4 crore donation during Guru Poornima festival

The Congress today questioned the non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/final-draft-of-assams-nrc-report-published-40-lakh-people-excluded-in-list-155639">complete draft of the NRC</a>, saying revision of voters list in the '90s had shown only 3.5 lakh 'Doubtful' or 'D voters', and alleged it was a "motivated" action under the BJP which was trying to play "politics of polarisation".

AIUDF president Badruddin Ajmal said the party will provide assistance to all people whose names did not feature in the draft to ensure that no genuine Indian citizen is left out.&nbsp&nbsp &nbsp&nbsp

Former Assam Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, who had spearheaded the six-year-long Assam agitation against foreigners and was a signatory to the historic Assam Accord, told PTI that the central government "must deport people who have come after March 24, 1971 to their original country".

Assam Pradesh Congress President Ripun Bora expressed the hope that the Centre would implement in letter and spirit Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's statement that no genuine citizen would be left out.

"Intensive revision of voters list in 1995 and 1997 had shown only 3.5 lakh 'Doubtful' or D voters. It is not clear how another 36.5 lakh people were dropped (in the complete draft of NRC)," Bora said after release of complete draft of the NRC.

The non-inclusion of over 40 lakh applicants is "motivated and we will help those whose names are not there in the list seek legal redress", he said.

Welcoming publication of the draft, Mahanta said names of genuine Indian citizens should be there.

This was not the final NRC and "we should wait for the final publication of the NRC", he said.

AIUDF's Ajmal also welcomed release of the draft NRC but said non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people "is not a small matter though we must take into account that this is not the final NRC and we must wait for it".

"We are yet to analyse the names of people left out and the areas where it has happened. If we find out that some particular areas have been targeted, we will make a decision on it," he told PTI.

"We have always wanted Assam to be free from foreigners," he said.

All Assam Students' Union (AASU) General Secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi said the draft publication is "a historic moment after the signing of the Assam Accord".

"The publication is one step forward towards ensuring a foreigners-free Assam and we are satisfied with the outcome so far," he said.

Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) Advisor Akhil Gogoi also welcomed the publication of the draft and assured legal help to genuine Indian citizens.

"The names of genuine Indian citizens should be included and if the names of foreigners have been included, then they should be deleted," he added.&nbsp

The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a record of all legal citizens of a state and the first for Assam was created in 1951. It is being updated under the Supreme Court supervision with March 24, 1971 as the cut-off date for genuine Indian citizens in Assam.

The first draft of the ongoing NRC process was released at the midnight of December 31, 2017. It comprised 1.9 crore names out of the total application of 3.29 crore people in Assam. The final draft released today lists 28,983,677 citizens in Assam. However, around 40 lakh people have been left out of the list.&nbsp

Mahanta had spearheaded the six-year-long Assam agitation against foreigners. On Monday he demanded that the central government 'must deport people who have come after March 24, 1971 to their original country'

The Congress today questioned the non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people in the complete draft of the NRC, saying revision of voters list in the '90s had shown only 3.5 lakh 'Doubtful' or 'D voters', and alleged it was a "motivated" action under the BJP which was trying to play "politics of polarisation". AIUDF president Badruddin Ajmal said the party will provide assistance to all people whose names did not feature in the draft to ensure that no genuine Indian citizen is left out. Former Assam Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, who had spearheaded the six-year-long Assam agitation against foreigners and was a signatory to the historic Assam Accord, told PTI that the central government "must deport people who have come after March 24, 1971 to their original country". Assam Pradesh Congress President Ripun Bora expressed the hope that the Centre would implement in letter and spirit Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's statement that no genuine citizen would be left out. "Intensive revision of voters list in 1995 and 1997 had shown only 3.5 lakh 'Doubtful' or D voters. It is not clear how another 36.5 lakh people were dropped (in the complete draft of NRC)," Bora said after release of complete draft of the NRC. The non-inclusion of over 40 lakh applicants is "motivated and we will help those whose names are not there in the list seek legal redress", he said. Welcoming publication of the draft, Mahanta said names of genuine Indian citizens should be there. This was not the final NRC and "we should wait for the final publication of the NRC", he said. AIUDF's Ajmal also welcomed release of the draft NRC but said non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people "is not a small matter though we must take into account that this is not the final NRC and we must wait for it". "We are yet to analyse the names of people left out and the areas where it has happened. If we find out that some particular areas have been targeted, we will make a decision on it," he told PTI. "We have always wanted Assam to be free from foreigners," he said. All Assam Students' Union (AASU) General Secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi said the draft publication is "a historic moment after the signing of the Assam Accord". "The publication is one step forward towards ensuring a foreigners-free Assam and we are satisfied with the outcome so far," he said. Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) Advisor Akhil Gogoi also welcomed the publication of the draft and assured legal help to genuine Indian citizens. "The names of genuine Indian citizens should be included and if the names of foreigners have been included, then they should be deleted," he added. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a record of all legal citizens of a state and the first for Assam was created in 1951. It is being updated under the Supreme Court supervision with March 24, 1971 as the cut-off date for genuine Indian citizens in Assam. The first draft of the ongoing NRC process was released at the midnight of December 31, 2017. It comprised 1.9 crore names out of the total application of 3.29 crore people in Assam. The final draft released today lists 28,983,677 citizens in Assam. However, around 40 lakh people have been left out of the list.

Assam: After publication of NRC, ex-CM Prafulla Mahanta demands illegals be deported

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/air-india-gets-default-notices-from-banks-aircraft-lessors-business-standard-155743">Is Air India broke? Airline gets default notices from banks, aircraft leasing cos: Report</a>

Three banks and two aircraft leasing firms have served default notices on Air India over the last few weeks, the Business Standard newspaper reported on Monday, raising concerns about the government-owned carrier's state of finances and credit-worthiness.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-says-journalists-reporting-on-rafale-deal-being-told-to-back-off-or-else-155730">Rahul Gandhi says journalists reporting on Rafale deal being told to 'back off or else...'&nbsp;</a>

Rahul Gandhi said Monday that journalists reporting on the Rafale deal are were being told to "back off or else..."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mh370-was-taken-off-course-deliberately-investigators-155724">MH370 was likely taken off course deliberately: Investigators</a>

Investigators released a report on missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 on Monday, saying the Boeing 777's controls were likely deliberately manipulated to take it off course but they were not able to determine who was responsible.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rial-hits-record-low-of-100000-to-the-dollar-155739">Iran’s rial hits record-low of 100,000 to the dollar</a>

Iran's currency hit an all-time low on Sunday of 100,000 rials to the dollar as US sanctions loomed, deepening economic crisis.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctor-who-examined-nawaz-sharif-after-he-complained-of-chest-pain-has-heart-attack-155758">Doctor</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctor-who-examined-nawaz-sharif-after-he-complained-of-chest-pain-has-heart-attack-155758"> who examined Nawaz Sharif after he complained of chest pain has </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctor-who-examined-nawaz-sharif-after-he-complained-of-chest-pain-has-heart-attack-155758">heart</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctor-who-examined-nawaz-sharif-after-he-complained-of-chest-pain-has-heart-attack-155758"> attack</a>

The doctor who examined former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif, after he complained of chest pain, has had a heart attack.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Is Air India broke? Airline gets default notices from banks, aircraft leasing cos: Report Three banks and two aircraft leasing firms have served default notices on Air India over the last few weeks, the Business Standard newspaper reported on Monday, raising concerns about the government-owned carrier's state of finances and credit-worthiness. Rahul Gandhi says journalists reporting on Rafale deal being told to 'back off or else...' Rahul Gandhi said Monday that journalists reporting on the Rafale deal are were being told to "back off or else..." MH370 was likely taken off course deliberately: Investigators Investigators released a report on missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 on Monday, saying the Boeing 777's controls were likely deliberately manipulated to take it off course but they were not able to determine who was responsible. Iran’s rial hits record-low of 100,000 to the dollar Iran's currency hit an all-time low on Sunday of 100,000 rials to the dollar as US sanctions loomed, deepening economic crisis. Doctor who examined Nawaz Sharif after he complained of chest pain has heart attack The doctor who examined former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif, after he complained of chest pain, has had a heart attack.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Amid the ongoing tussle between Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal and the Delhi government, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a symbolic gesture tore a report of the LG committee on installing CCTV cameras in Delhi.

Addressing an interactive session comprising Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and market associations of the city on Sunday, Kejriwal, on flashing the report in front of the public said, "It is the will of the people that this report should be torn apart. The public is God in a democracy."

As soon as he made the statement, he ripped the LG's report on CCTV cameras, inviting huge cheers and applause from the public.

Slamming the report, Kejriwal said, "The report of LG's committee whose members are police personnel, says if someone installs CCTV cameras in Delhi, even with their own money, they will have to get the license from the police. License means 'paisa chadhao, license le jaao' (give money and take license)."

Taking on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the centre, Kejriwal alleged that the ruling party through the LG was not letting the Delhi government work and was constantly hindering in the administrative control over the city-state.

He further stated that with the installation of CCTVs all over Delhi, crimes against women would come down to at least 50 per cent.

Earlier on July 4, the Supreme Court in its judgment said that the Lieutenant Governor must work harmoniously with the state, adding that Delhi cannot be granted statehood, citing an earlier judgment.

Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, who headed the five-judge bench comprising A.K. Sikri, A.M. Khanwilkar, D.Y. Chandrachud and Ashok Bhushan, said, "LG cannot act independently unless where the Constitution allows. LG cannot be an obstructionist."

"LG cannot act independently unless where the Constitution allows. LG cannot be an obstructionist, he must take advice from the Council of Ministers. The Council has to inform the LG of its decisions. The LG must work harmoniously with the state, the L-G and council of ministers have to be constantly aligned. There is no space for anarchy," CJI Misra said.

Later, Kejriwal questioned LG Anil Baijal as to why he was "selective" in accepting the Supreme Court's judgment on the power tussle between him and the Delhi government.

The power tussle between the Delhi government and the LG has been on since the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in the state.

It is the will of the people that this report should be torn apart. The public is God in a democracy: Kejriwal

Amid the ongoing tussle between Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal and the Delhi government, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a symbolic gesture tore a report of the LG committee on installing CCTV cameras in Delhi. Addressing an interactive session comprising Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and market associations of the city on Sunday, Kejriwal, on flashing the report in front of the public said, "It is the will of the people that this report should be torn apart. The public is God in a democracy." As soon as he made the statement, he ripped the LG's report on CCTV cameras, inviting huge cheers and applause from the public. Slamming the report, Kejriwal said, "The report of LG's committee whose members are police personnel, says if someone installs CCTV cameras in Delhi, even with their own money, they will have to get the license from the police. License means 'paisa chadhao, license le jaao' (give money and take license)." Taking on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the centre, Kejriwal alleged that the ruling party through the LG was not letting the Delhi government work and was constantly hindering in the administrative control over the city-state. He further stated that with the installation of CCTVs all over Delhi, crimes against women would come down to at least 50 per cent. Earlier on July 4, the Supreme Court in its judgment said that the Lieutenant Governor must work harmoniously with the state, adding that Delhi cannot be granted statehood, citing an earlier judgment. Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, who headed the five-judge bench comprising A.K. Sikri, A.M. Khanwilkar, D.Y. Chandrachud and Ashok Bhushan, said, "LG cannot act independently unless where the Constitution allows. LG cannot be an obstructionist." "LG cannot act independently unless where the Constitution allows. LG cannot be an obstructionist, he must take advice from the Council of Ministers. The Council has to inform the LG of its decisions. The LG must work harmoniously with the state, the L-G and council of ministers have to be constantly aligned. There is no space for anarchy," CJI Misra said. Later, Kejriwal questioned LG Anil Baijal as to why he was "selective" in accepting the Supreme Court's judgment on the power tussle between him and the Delhi government. The power tussle between the Delhi government and the LG has been on since the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in the state.

Arvind Kejriwal rips Lieutenant Governor's report on CCTV cameras

Due to less availability of shelter homes, families residing near old Yamuna Bridge in the national capital are allegedly forced to stay on roads as they were evacuated from their homes after the water level of the river crossed the danger mark.

"Everything is visible here for people to see. We have not been provided any kind of support from the government since we left our houses due to overflow of water in Yamuna river. We are now forced to live on the streets. I was staying near the bridge," one of the members of the families told ANI.

Another one alleged that most of the Rain Baseras (shelter homes) are full due to which they are forced to sleep on footpaths.

"Rain Baseras are full. We were staying in temporary houses near the bridge. However, the government asked us to leave and now we are left with no other means," the person said.

On a related note, the District Magistrate (DM) of East Delhi, K. Mahesh earlier on Sunday ordered closure of traffic on the old Yamuna Bridge with immediate effect after flooding in river Yamuna crossing water level crossed danger mark.

The water level touched 205.46 metres on Sunday, reaching beyond the danger mark of 204.83 metres.

Commuters faced problems as they were stuck in traffic after they reached the bridge unknowingly.

The water level is expected to rise further after over 6,50,000 cusecs of water was released from Haryana.

The water level is expected to rise further after over 6,50,000 cusecs of water was released from Haryana.

Due to less availability of shelter homes, families residing near old Yamuna Bridge in the national capital are allegedly forced to stay on roads as they were evacuated from their homes after the water level of the river crossed the danger mark. "Everything is visible here for people to see. We have not been provided any kind of support from the government since we left our houses due to overflow of water in Yamuna river. We are now forced to live on the streets. I was staying near the bridge," one of the members of the families told ANI. Another one alleged that most of the Rain Baseras (shelter homes) are full due to which they are forced to sleep on footpaths. "Rain Baseras are full. We were staying in temporary houses near the bridge. However, the government asked us to leave and now we are left with no other means," the person said. On a related note, the District Magistrate (DM) of East Delhi, K. Mahesh earlier on Sunday ordered closure of traffic on the old Yamuna Bridge with immediate effect after flooding in river Yamuna crossing water level crossed danger mark. The water level touched 205.46 metres on Sunday, reaching beyond the danger mark of 204.83 metres. Commuters faced problems as they were stuck in traffic after they reached the bridge unknowingly. The water level is expected to rise further after over 6,50,000 cusecs of water was released from Haryana.

Yamuna overflow: Evacuated families forced to stay on roads

Noida Police have warned people against doing the “Kiki challenge”, after multiple people attempting the viral dance have been injured.

Currently, people on the social media platforms, be it Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, are seen going crazy over the ‘Kiki Challenge’, wherein an individual hops out of a moving car and starts dancing madly, while the driver records the hilarious dance sequence that follows.&nbsp;

The Kiki dance challenge is so popular, personalities like Will Smith have done it. While he looks cooler doing it, Mr Smith kept it pretty safe without having to involve a moving car in it.&nbsp;

Noida Police through their verified Twitter handle has asked parents to not support their kids in such activities.

“Dear Parents, whether Kiki loves your child or not, we are sure you do! So please stand by your kids in all the challenges in life except KiKi Challenge,” tweeted Noida Police.

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Retweeted UP POLICE (<a href="https://twitter.com/Uppolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uppolice</a>): 
 
Dear Parents, whether Kiki loves your child or not, we are sure you do! So please stand by your kids in all the challenges in life except <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kikichallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kikichallenge</a> . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KiKiHardlyAChallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KiKiHardlyAChallenge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InMyFeelingsChallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InMyFeelingsChallenge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPPolice?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPPolice</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yi3qIn8gLr">pic.twitter.com/Yi3qIn8gLr</a>
— NOIDA POLICE (@noidapolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/noidapolice/status/1023829651880386560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Mumbai Police, who is often seen tutoring the citizens about several issues, using the viral trend in the content, had come up with another message on its Twitter account. The city police had used the&nbsp;‘Kiki Challenge’ to caution the people to avoid risking their lives and others too, by desisting from this nuisance. If not, they will have to face the music (their brunt).&nbsp;

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Not just a risk for you but your act can put life of others at risk too. Desist from public nuisance or face the music ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DanceYourWayToSafety?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DanceYourWayToSafety</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InMySafetyFeelingsChallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InMySafetyFeelingsChallenge</a> <a href="https://t.co/gY2txdcxWZ">pic.twitter.com/gY2txdcxWZ</a>
— Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/MumbaiPolice/status/1022349566140665856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Some videos of the dances uploaded to the internet show oblivious dancers crashing into poles, tripping on potholes or falling out of the cars.

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LMFAOOOOO <a href="https://t.co/iUCVN19qWm">pic.twitter.com/iUCVN19qWm</a>
— carolina? (@caarolin9) <a href="https://twitter.com/caarolin9/status/1018551041225383937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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HAHAHA when you stop midway through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kekechallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kekechallenge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/baileywatkiins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@baileywatkiins</a> <a href="https://t.co/7dmCUhjKeP">pic.twitter.com/7dmCUhjKeP</a>
— arii (@arianataylorr) <a href="https://twitter.com/arianataylorr/status/1017177164813406208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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i almost died <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kekechallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kekechallenge</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KIKIDOYOULOVEME?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KIKIDOYOULOVEME</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZkEExvN9ep">pic.twitter.com/ZkEExvN9ep</a>
— Barbara Kopylova (@baabsxx) <a href="https://twitter.com/baabsxx/status/1018298316692520960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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One video shows a woman having her handbag stolen while attempting the challenge and another shows a man being hit by a car while he dances.

Noida Police has issued a tweet urging parents to be careful because "whether Kiki loves your child or not, we are sure you do!"

Noida Police have warned people against doing the “Kiki challenge”, after multiple people attempting the viral dance have been injured. Currently, people on the social media platforms, be it Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, are seen going crazy over the ‘Kiki Challenge’, wherein an individual hops out of a moving car and starts dancing madly, while the driver records the hilarious dance sequence that follows. The Kiki dance challenge is so popular, personalities like Will Smith have done it. While he looks cooler doing it, Mr Smith kept it pretty safe without having to involve a moving car in it. Noida Police through their verified Twitter handle has asked parents to not support their kids in such activities. “Dear Parents, whether Kiki loves your child or not, we are sure you do! So please stand by your kids in all the challenges in life except KiKi Challenge,” tweeted Noida Police. Retweeted UP POLICE (@Uppolice): Dear Parents, whether Kiki loves your child or not, we are sure you do! So please stand by your kids in all the challenges in life except #kikichallenge . #KiKiHardlyAChallenge #InMyFeelingsChallenge #UPPolice pic.twitter.com/Yi3qIn8gLr — NOIDA POLICE (@noidapolice) July 30, 2018 × Earlier, Mumbai Police, who is often seen tutoring the citizens about several issues, using the viral trend in the content, had come up with another message on its Twitter account. The city police had used the ‘Kiki Challenge’ to caution the people to avoid risking their lives and others too, by desisting from this nuisance. If not, they will have to face the music (their brunt). Not just a risk for you but your act can put life of others at risk too. Desist from public nuisance or face the music ! #DanceYourWayToSafety #InMySafetyFeelingsChallenge pic.twitter.com/gY2txdcxWZ — Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) July 26, 2018 × Some videos of the dances uploaded to the internet show oblivious dancers crashing into poles, tripping on potholes or falling out of the cars. LMFAOOOOO pic.twitter.com/iUCVN19qWm — carolina? (@caarolin9) July 15, 2018 × HAHAHA when you stop midway through #Kekechallenge @baileywatkiins pic.twitter.com/7dmCUhjKeP — arii (@arianataylorr) July 11, 2018 × i almost died #Kekechallenge #KIKIDOYOULOVEME pic.twitter.com/ZkEExvN9ep — Barbara Kopylova (@baabsxx) July 15, 2018 × One video shows a woman having her handbag stolen while attempting the challenge and another shows a man being hit by a car while he dances.

Now, Noida Police warn against Kiki dance challenge

As the final National Register of Citizens (NRC) draft is set to be published today in Assam, the security forces across the state are on high alert while Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in an all-party meeting called it a "historic moment" and requested people to not believe in any rumours, which can incite violence.

The Chief Minister on Sunday chaired an all-party meeting here regarding the security measures taken for Monday's draft, which will be published at 12 pm at all the NRC Sewa Kendras (NSK) across the state.

"I feel that those people, whose name is not included in the list, need not have to worry because they too have a chance with 'claim and objection'," Sonowal said after the meeting.

"People are requested to not believe in any rumours as all of them will be treated as Indian citizens and not foreigners. Nobody needs to go to the detention camp. 55,000 people from the government have been working on this since last few years.

Assam is the first state of India where NRC has been updated. It's a historic moment for the people of Assam. I want to thank them for helping us throughout. In every district, on every circle there will be a control room to help people," he added.

Another meeting of top officials of the security forces was held which was also attended by district magistrates.

Also read:&nbsp<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-an-explainer-155549">Assam's National Register of Citizens - An explainer</a>

"We conducted a meeting with all district magistrates in Guwahati. Our police officers and other security forces who have come from outside, we have made detailed security arrangements. The whole security team has been divided into eight zones and 19 subzones. Adequate forces have been deployed across the state. We don't have any dearth of forces. We are taking full security of the NRC to headquarter in Guwahati," Hiren Nath, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati told ANI.

Meanwhile, Opposition parties have also assured full support to the state government in maintaining law and order.

"We have requested to the government to ensure that no leader tries to make statements which can make the people of Assam feel insecure about their constitutional rights. The government has assured us the same. Also, we want to request to the people do not believe in any rumour and have full faith in the judiciary," Congress leader Apurbo Bhattacharya said.

People, whose names are not included in the final draft, will be provided an adequate time period for claims and objections. Such people will have to apply in prescribed forms in their respective Sewa Kendras.

"Those citizens, whose names are not included in the draft can know the reason behind the same between August 7-30 by visiting their respective centres. After that from August 30 till September 28 people can submit claim and objection forms. Based on the same further enquiry will be done," said Virendra Mittal, Deputy Commissioner of Assam's Kamrup district.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on July 25 asked the Assam Government and its neighbouring states to ensure maintenance of law and order in the run-up to and post-publication of the NRC draft.

The Registrar General of India (RGI) has been ordered to use all means of communication including websites, toll-free numbers, SMS etc, to provide information to public about the Draft NRC.

MHA has also advised the Assam Government that no action should be initiated by the administration or the police based on the Draft NRC.

Meanwhile, Opposition parties have also assured full support to the state government in maintaining law and order.

As the final National Register of Citizens (NRC) draft is set to be published today in Assam, the security forces across the state are on high alert while Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in an all-party meeting called it a "historic moment" and requested people to not believe in any rumours, which can incite violence. The Chief Minister on Sunday chaired an all-party meeting here regarding the security measures taken for Monday's draft, which will be published at 12 pm at all the NRC Sewa Kendras (NSK) across the state. "I feel that those people, whose name is not included in the list, need not have to worry because they too have a chance with 'claim and objection'," Sonowal said after the meeting. "People are requested to not believe in any rumours as all of them will be treated as Indian citizens and not foreigners. Nobody needs to go to the detention camp. 55,000 people from the government have been working on this since last few years. Assam is the first state of India where NRC has been updated. It's a historic moment for the people of Assam. I want to thank them for helping us throughout. In every district, on every circle there will be a control room to help people," he added. Another meeting of top officials of the security forces was held which was also attended by district magistrates. Also read: Assam's National Register of Citizens - An explainer "We conducted a meeting with all district magistrates in Guwahati. Our police officers and other security forces who have come from outside, we have made detailed security arrangements. The whole security team has been divided into eight zones and 19 subzones. Adequate forces have been deployed across the state. We don't have any dearth of forces. We are taking full security of the NRC to headquarter in Guwahati," Hiren Nath, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati told ANI. Meanwhile, Opposition parties have also assured full support to the state government in maintaining law and order. "We have requested to the government to ensure that no leader tries to make statements which can make the people of Assam feel insecure about their constitutional rights. The government has assured us the same. Also, we want to request to the people do not believe in any rumour and have full faith in the judiciary," Congress leader Apurbo Bhattacharya said. People, whose names are not included in the final draft, will be provided an adequate time period for claims and objections. Such people will have to apply in prescribed forms in their respective Sewa Kendras. "Those citizens, whose names are not included in the draft can know the reason behind the same between August 7-30 by visiting their respective centres. After that from August 30 till September 28 people can submit claim and objection forms. Based on the same further enquiry will be done," said Virendra Mittal, Deputy Commissioner of Assam's Kamrup district. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on July 25 asked the Assam Government and its neighbouring states to ensure maintenance of law and order in the run-up to and post-publication of the NRC draft. The Registrar General of India (RGI) has been ordered to use all means of communication including websites, toll-free numbers, SMS etc, to provide information to public about the Draft NRC. MHA has also advised the Assam Government that no action should be initiated by the administration or the police based on the Draft NRC.

National Register of Citizens: Assam on high alert, CM calls for calm ahead of 'historic moment'

Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Jitendra Singh on Monday denied opposition charges that the Centre had a role to play in drafting the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list.

Speaking with us, Singh said,&nbsp;"I consider after the statement of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that there is nothing left to say or even add more into that (on the issue)."

He not only rejected the opposition's allegations, he also cleared confusion in certain quarters whether it is a final report&nbsp;Singh said, "There is no role of the central government in this report. The opposition parties are unnecessarily politicising the issue, and are spreading rumours. The report has not even been finalised yet."

Earlier today, West Bengal Chief Minister attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the NRC list, saying, it has been done to evict the Bengalis and Biharis from Assam.

Addressing the media, Mamata said, "People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. It is a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also."

However, just after the release of the list, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured that no coercive action would be taken against those whose names are not mentioned in the final draft list.

"Even someone whose name is not in the final list can approach the foreigner's tribunal. No coercive action will be taken against anyone, hence there is no need for anyone to panic," Rajnath told earlier.

The Congress also came down hard on the BJP soon after the release of the draft.

Singh said, 'I consider after the statement of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that there is nothing left to say or even add more into that (on the issue).'

Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Jitendra Singh on Monday denied opposition charges that the Centre had a role to play in drafting the National Register of Citizens (NRC) list. Speaking with us, Singh said, "I consider after the statement of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that there is nothing left to say or even add more into that (on the issue)." He not only rejected the opposition's allegations, he also cleared confusion in certain quarters whether it is a final report Singh said, "There is no role of the central government in this report. The opposition parties are unnecessarily politicising the issue, and are spreading rumours. The report has not even been finalised yet." Earlier today, West Bengal Chief Minister attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the NRC list, saying, it has been done to evict the Bengalis and Biharis from Assam. Addressing the media, Mamata said, "People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. It is a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also." However, just after the release of the list, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured that no coercive action would be taken against those whose names are not mentioned in the final draft list. "Even someone whose name is not in the final list can approach the foreigner's tribunal. No coercive action will be taken against anyone, hence there is no need for anyone to panic," Rajnath told earlier. The Congress also came down hard on the BJP soon after the release of the draft.

Opposition politicising Assam NRC draft issue: Jitendra Singh

Reminiscing "golden times" under former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, former Chief Minister of&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;on Monday asserted that she "suffered" by joining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under the current Narendra Modi-led central government.

Addressing party workers and supporters at the 19th Foundation Day celebration of the&nbsp;Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba stepped up her pitch in an attempt to regain the lost ground. She spoke about the struggles and difficulties she had to encounter as a chief minister while leading a coalition government with the BJP in the state.

Since the state prospered under the patronage of Vajpayee-led central government despite the fact that the PDP-Congress were alliance partners in the state, Mehbooba said, "Mufti Sahab (Mufti Mohammed Sayeed) agreed to join hands with BJP again (in 2015) because we had a good understanding during Vajpayee ji's reign. But this time, it was a difficult decision. Forming an alliance with the BJP was like drinking poison. I suffered during the two years and two months after the alliance."

The state went to assembly polls in 2014 end.&nbsp;Mufti Mohammed Sayeed&nbsp;became the chief minister in March 2015 by joining hands with the BJP. His party, PDP, won 28 seats and the BJP bagged 25 in a house of 87 members. Mufti did not even rule for a year, when he passed away in January 2016. For three months, Mehbooba stayed away from taking charge. Finally, on April 4, 2016, she took oath as the first woman chief minister of the trouble-torn state.

Recollecting the days of&nbsp;Mufti Mohammed Sayeed&nbsp;during Vajpayee's time, Mehbooba said: "Mufti Sahab and his time in the government was the golden time for the state. The state developed and prospered during that time. The militant activities were in control and there was peace in the state. There was a ceasefire on the border. We constructed roads, colleges and universities."

However, she added, "The moment the alliance ended and the government changed, all the work for peace came undone." In the 2002 assembly elections, PDP and Congress formed the government in the state and Mufti became the chief minister. However, there was an understanding between the PDP and the Congress that the chief minister would be on a rotational basis. So, in a six-year term of the state assembly, Mufti was the chief minister for the first three years from 2002-2005. After that Congress senior leader, Ghulam Nabi Azad became the chief minister. Subsequently, there were strains in the alliance.

Talking about the growth of her party, Mehbooba said, "There was a clear vision in the mind of the Mufti Sahab. He had no confusion about the country and state." She further talked about the work she did during her time as the chief minister of the state.

She said, "I did everything I could in the two years I had. I did not discriminate between&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir. We opened the same number of colleges for both the states. There was no corruption in government jobs." She tried to clarify her party's stand since there were allegations that Jammu was getting discriminated in infrastructure and developments.

She also addressed the Kathua rape case and said, "A rapist has no religion. The people who gave it a communal colour do not remember the valour of the brave Dogra community." She emphasised that she did not compromise anything when it came to the development of the state.

"We went through a lot of difficulties during the two years of alliance. I never spoke about it but today, I will not hold back," said Mehbooba while talking about her time in the government.

Clearing the misgivings about her tenure, she further said, "I did not give up on anyone and stayed to work for the state. Even though the alliance ended, we are not sad about it because we did not form the alliance just to come in power. We had a bigger motive, the development of the state."

On Saturday, Mehbooba urged the Centre to seize the opportunity by extending a hand of friendship with Pakistan's Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan so that issues between the two countries could be resolved.&nbsp;

Addressing party workers and supporters at the 19th Foundation Day celebration of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba stepped up her pitch in an attempt to regain the lost ground.

Reminiscing "golden times" under former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asserted that she "suffered" by joining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under the current Narendra Modi-led central government. Addressing party workers and supporters at the 19th Foundation Day celebration of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba stepped up her pitch in an attempt to regain the lost ground. She spoke about the struggles and difficulties she had to encounter as a chief minister while leading a coalition government with the BJP in the state. Since the state prospered under the patronage of Vajpayee-led central government despite the fact that the PDP-Congress were alliance partners in the state, Mehbooba said, "Mufti Sahab (Mufti Mohammed Sayeed) agreed to join hands with BJP again (in 2015) because we had a good understanding during Vajpayee ji's reign. But this time, it was a difficult decision. Forming an alliance with the BJP was like drinking poison. I suffered during the two years and two months after the alliance." The state went to assembly polls in 2014 end. Mufti Mohammed Sayeed became the chief minister in March 2015 by joining hands with the BJP. His party, PDP, won 28 seats and the BJP bagged 25 in a house of 87 members. Mufti did not even rule for a year, when he passed away in January 2016. For three months, Mehbooba stayed away from taking charge. Finally, on April 4, 2016, she took oath as the first woman chief minister of the trouble-torn state. Recollecting the days of Mufti Mohammed Sayeed during Vajpayee's time, Mehbooba said: "Mufti Sahab and his time in the government was the golden time for the state. The state developed and prospered during that time. The militant activities were in control and there was peace in the state. There was a ceasefire on the border. We constructed roads, colleges and universities." However, she added, "The moment the alliance ended and the government changed, all the work for peace came undone." In the 2002 assembly elections, PDP and Congress formed the government in the state and Mufti became the chief minister. However, there was an understanding between the PDP and the Congress that the chief minister would be on a rotational basis. So, in a six-year term of the state assembly, Mufti was the chief minister for the first three years from 2002-2005. After that Congress senior leader, Ghulam Nabi Azad became the chief minister. Subsequently, there were strains in the alliance. Talking about the growth of her party, Mehbooba said, "There was a clear vision in the mind of the Mufti Sahab. He had no confusion about the country and state." She further talked about the work she did during her time as the chief minister of the state. She said, "I did everything I could in the two years I had. I did not discriminate between Jammu and Kashmir. We opened the same number of colleges for both the states. There was no corruption in government jobs." She tried to clarify her party's stand since there were allegations that Jammu was getting discriminated in infrastructure and developments. She also addressed the Kathua rape case and said, "A rapist has no religion. The people who gave it a communal colour do not remember the valour of the brave Dogra community." She emphasised that she did not compromise anything when it came to the development of the state. "We went through a lot of difficulties during the two years of alliance. I never spoke about it but today, I will not hold back," said Mehbooba while talking about her time in the government. Clearing the misgivings about her tenure, she further said, "I did not give up on anyone and stayed to work for the state. Even though the alliance ended, we are not sad about it because we did not form the alliance just to come in power. We had a bigger motive, the development of the state." On Saturday, Mehbooba urged the Centre to seize the opportunity by extending a hand of friendship with Pakistan's Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan so that issues between the two countries could be resolved.

Good alliance in Vajpayee's regime suffered in Modi's time: Mehbooba

Amid the ongoing&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;reservation agitation,&nbsp;Shiv Sena&nbsp;chief&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray&nbsp;said that party MLAs would be meeting Chief Minister&nbsp;Devendra Fadnavis&nbsp;to discuss the&nbsp;reservation&nbsp;issues today.

Maratha&nbsp;outfit&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;Kranti Morcha&nbsp;have been protesting across the state demanding&nbsp;reservation&nbsp;in government jobs and education. Besides&nbsp;reservation&nbsp;for the&nbsp;Maratha community, loan waiver, Kopardi rape and unemployment are some of the other issues against which the community is protesting.

"Our demand is to convene a special assembly session on&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;Reservation issue. Our MLAs will meet the Chief Minister at 4.00 pm today," Thackeray said in a press conference here.

According to media reports, the meeting is taking place at&nbsp;Matoshree, Thackeray's house in Mumbai.

On July 27, Fadnavis had invited party leaders of both the Houses for a meeting in&nbsp;Vidhan Sabha&nbsp;to discuss the ongoing&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;stir. He had earlier chaired a meeting with BJP ministers and party legislators from the&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;community to discuss the issue.

A day before, a&nbsp;Maratha&nbsp;Kranti Morcha&nbsp;riot victim, who was injured in a clash between protestors and police in&nbsp;Navi Mumbai, succumbed to his injuries. So far, two protestors have taken their lives demanding&nbsp;reservations for&nbsp;Marathas while one, who also attempted suicide, is undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Maratha outfit Maratha Kranti Morcha have been protesting across the state demanding reservation in government jobs and education.

Amid the ongoing Maratha reservation agitation, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that party MLAs would be meeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss the reservation issues today. Maratha outfit Maratha Kranti Morcha have been protesting across the state demanding reservation in government jobs and education. Besides reservation for the Maratha community, loan waiver, Kopardi rape and unemployment are some of the other issues against which the community is protesting. "Our demand is to convene a special assembly session on Maratha Reservation issue. Our MLAs will meet the Chief Minister at 4.00 pm today," Thackeray said in a press conference here. According to media reports, the meeting is taking place at Matoshree, Thackeray's house in Mumbai. On July 27, Fadnavis had invited party leaders of both the Houses for a meeting in Vidhan Sabha to discuss the ongoing Maratha stir. He had earlier chaired a meeting with BJP ministers and party legislators from the Maratha community to discuss the issue. A day before, a Maratha Kranti Morcha riot victim, who was injured in a clash between protestors and police in Navi Mumbai, succumbed to his injuries. So far, two protestors have taken their lives demanding reservations for Marathas while one, who also attempted suicide, is undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Uddhav Thackeray to meet CM Fadnavis to discuss Maratha issue

The&nbsp;Bombay High Court&nbsp;has admitted the discharged application of&nbsp;Sadhvi Pragya Singh&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sameer Kulkarni, two of the accused in the&nbsp;2008&nbsp;Malegaon blast case.

The move comes a week after the court admitted the discharge application of main accused Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Purohit.

"Colonel Purohit's discharge plea has already been accepted by the&nbsp;Bombay High Court. Today, the plea of&nbsp;Sadhvi Pragya Singh, which was turned down by a trial court, has been admitted by the High Court," Prashant Maggu, the lawyer of the accused, told that.

The joint hearing in the case is slated to be held on August 13.

Six people were killed and 101 people injured on September 29, 2009, after a bomb tied to a motorcycle exploded in Nashik's Malegaon town.

In November&nbsp;2008, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested 11 people in this connection. However, in April 2011, the investigation was transferred to the NIA.

Prashant Maggu, the lawyer of the accused, said that 'Colonel Purohit's discharge plea has already been accepted by the Bombay High Court. Today, the plea of Sadhvi Pragya Singh, which was turned down by a trial court, has been admitted by the High Court'.

The Bombay High Court has admitted the discharged application of Sadhvi Pragya Singh and Sameer Kulkarni, two of the accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case. The move comes a week after the court admitted the discharge application of main accused Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Purohit. "Colonel Purohit's discharge plea has already been accepted by the Bombay High Court. Today, the plea of Sadhvi Pragya Singh, which was turned down by a trial court, has been admitted by the High Court," Prashant Maggu, the lawyer of the accused, told that. The joint hearing in the case is slated to be held on August 13. Six people were killed and 101 people injured on September 29, 2009, after a bomb tied to a motorcycle exploded in Nashik's Malegaon town. In November 2008, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested 11 people in this connection. However, in April 2011, the investigation was transferred to the NIA.

Malegaon blast: Bombay High Court admits discharge pleas of 2 accused

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