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Kerala’s high range Idukki dam is likely to be opened for the first time in 26 years, as copious inflows following heavy monsoon rains resulted in a rise in water levels in the Periyar river.&nbsp

The rising water level in the Idukki dam (it was 2,394.36 feet on Sunday) has triggered fear among the people in the downstream areas.&nbsp

Once it reaches 2,395 ft, an orange alert will be issued to the local people, who then will have to find refuge at a relative’s house or at a relief camp until the flood water recedes.

The shutters of the dam were likely to be thrown open if the water level touched 2,400 feet, officials of Kerala told the news agency.

The decision was taken in a high-level meeting headed by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, called to discuss the precautions to be taken once the shutters are opened.

If the dam was opened, thousands of people will be affected by the swelling waters between Thadyambad, Karimban and Injivarakkuth areas near Cheruthoni that lie on the banks of the Cheruthoni River, through which the released water from the dam should flow.

The rising water level in the Idukki dam (it was 2,394.36 feet on Sunday) has triggered fear among the people in the downstream areas.

Kerala’s high range Idukki dam is likely to be opened for the first time in 26 years, as copious inflows following heavy monsoon rains resulted in a rise in water levels in the Periyar river. The rising water level in the Idukki dam (it was 2,394.36 feet on Sunday) has triggered fear among the people in the downstream areas. Once it reaches 2,395 ft, an orange alert will be issued to the local people, who then will have to find refuge at a relative’s house or at a relief camp until the flood water recedes. The shutters of the dam were likely to be thrown open if the water level touched 2,400 feet, officials of Kerala told the news agency. The decision was taken in a high-level meeting headed by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, called to discuss the precautions to be taken once the shutters are opened. If the dam was opened, thousands of people will be affected by the swelling waters between Thadyambad, Karimban and Injivarakkuth areas near Cheruthoni that lie on the banks of the Cheruthoni River, through which the released water from the dam should flow.

With rising water levels, Kerala to open its high-capacity Idukki dam after 26 years

Rahul Gandhi said Monday that journalists reporting on the Rafale deal are were being told to "back off or else..."&nbsp

"Supreme leader's minions are now sending threatening messages to journalists reporting on the #RafaleScam asking them to 'back off or else...'," the Congress President tweeted Monday. &nbsp

"I'm really proud of the few brave press people who still have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to Mr 56," he added.&nbsp

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Supreme leader's minions are now sending threatening messages to journalists reporting on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleScam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleScam</a> asking them to "back off or else...”. 
 
I'm really proud of the few brave press people who still have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to Mr 56.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1023866011165057025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The "supreme leader" and "Mr 56" were references to Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp

Gandhi has of late been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gave-rafale-contract-to-his-friend-rahul-gandhi-32416">relentless attacking Modi</a> on the Rafale deal.&nbsp

Gandhi says the deal the previous UPA government had struck with the French government over the Rafale deal was cheaper than the one signed by the NDA regime led by Modi.&nbsp

The government has said details of the deal cannot be made public because of a secrecy clause, to which the opposition has replied that the secrecy clause safeguards the deal's technical details, not the commercial ones.&nbsp

'Supreme leader's minions are now sending threatening messages to journalists reporting on the #RafaleScam asking them to 'back off or else...',' the Congress President tweeted Monday

Rahul Gandhi said Monday that journalists reporting on the Rafale deal are were being told to "back off or else..." "Supreme leader's minions are now sending threatening messages to journalists reporting on the #RafaleScam asking them to 'back off or else...'," the Congress President tweeted Monday. "I'm really proud of the few brave press people who still have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to Mr 56," he added. Supreme leader's minions are now sending threatening messages to journalists reporting on the #RafaleScam asking them to "back off or else...”. I'm really proud of the few brave press people who still have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to Mr 56. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 30, 2018 × The "supreme leader" and "Mr 56" were references to Prime Minister Modi. Gandhi has of late been relentless attacking Modi on the Rafale deal. Gandhi says the deal the previous UPA government had struck with the French government over the Rafale deal was cheaper than the one signed by the NDA regime led by Modi. The government has said details of the deal cannot be made public because of a secrecy clause, to which the opposition has replied that the secrecy clause safeguards the deal's technical details, not the commercial ones.

Rahul Gandhi says journalists reporting on Rafale deal being told to 'back off or else...' 

Parts of North India continue to bear the brunt of heavy rains with the death toll climbing to 80 in rain-related accidents in Uttar Pradesh.

According to the latest reports, water logging and traffic snarls affected daily life in many parts of North India.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to launch relief and rescue work on a war footing.

Heavy to very heavy rains were witnessed in most parts of Himachal Pradesh with Solan recording 100.4 mm rainfall, followed by 64.7 mm in Sundernagar and 56.5 mm in Mandi. A landslide was reported in the outskirts of Shimla city triggered by heavy rains which affected traffic.

East Rajasthan also experienced spells of showers with Bharatpur recording a maximum of 11 cm rainfall in the last 24 hours. Punjab and Haryana also witnessed rains.

Watch: <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/watch-after-heavy-rains-fish-swim-into-bihar-hospital-icu-155484">After heavy rains, fish swim into Bihar hospital ICU</a>

Bihar's capital city Patna received more than 140 mm of rainfall in the last 36-hours. The district administration on Sunday ordered the suspension of academic activities in all schools on Monday, officials said.

"The academic activities up to Class 12 will remain suspended tomorrow in all government and private schools due to prevailing rainy conditions and reported waterlogging in many areas in and around Patna, Danapur, Khagaul, Phulwarisharif municipal areas," Patna District Magistrate Kumar Ravi said in his order.

Patna received 132.1 mm of rainfall between 8:30 am on Saturday and 8:30 am on Sunday. The state capital received 11 mm of rainfall from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm today, the Met department said.

Rains also pounded the national capital which led to water logging in several areas and contributed to traffic snarls at various intersections. 
The MeT department today forecast a cloudy sky with light to moderate showers expected to hit the city.

The capital received 25 mm of rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm on Sunday at Safdarjung observatory and rains continued in parts of the city till late evening, it said.

(With inputs from PTI)

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to launch relief and rescue work in Uttar Pradesh on a war footing.

Parts of North India continue to bear the brunt of heavy rains with the death toll climbing to 80 in rain-related accidents in Uttar Pradesh. According to the latest reports, water logging and traffic snarls affected daily life in many parts of North India. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to launch relief and rescue work on a war footing. Heavy to very heavy rains were witnessed in most parts of Himachal Pradesh with Solan recording 100.4 mm rainfall, followed by 64.7 mm in Sundernagar and 56.5 mm in Mandi. A landslide was reported in the outskirts of Shimla city triggered by heavy rains which affected traffic. East Rajasthan also experienced spells of showers with Bharatpur recording a maximum of 11 cm rainfall in the last 24 hours. Punjab and Haryana also witnessed rains. Watch: After heavy rains, fish swim into Bihar hospital ICU Bihar's capital city Patna received more than 140 mm of rainfall in the last 36-hours. The district administration on Sunday ordered the suspension of academic activities in all schools on Monday, officials said. "The academic activities up to Class 12 will remain suspended tomorrow in all government and private schools due to prevailing rainy conditions and reported waterlogging in many areas in and around Patna, Danapur, Khagaul, Phulwarisharif municipal areas," Patna District Magistrate Kumar Ravi said in his order. Patna received 132.1 mm of rainfall between 8:30 am on Saturday and 8:30 am on Sunday. The state capital received 11 mm of rainfall from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm today, the Met department said. Rains also pounded the national capital which led to water logging in several areas and contributed to traffic snarls at various intersections. The MeT department today forecast a cloudy sky with light to moderate showers expected to hit the city. The capital received 25 mm of rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm on Sunday at Safdarjung observatory and rains continued in parts of the city till late evening, it said. (With inputs from PTI)

Watch: Heavy rains batter North India; 80 dead in UP

Parts of North India continue to bear the brunt of heavy rains with the death toll climbing to 80 in rain-related accidents in Uttar Pradesh.

Heavy rains continue to batter North India; 80 dead in UP, Patna shuts schools

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lashed out at the central government after <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/final-draft-of-assams-nrc-report-published-40-lakh-people-excluded-in-list-155639">40 lakh people were excluded</a> in the final draft of Assam's NRC report on Monday.&nbsp;

"Where will the 40 lakh people, whose names have been deleted, go?" Banerjee asked.&nbsp;

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Where will the 40 lakh people whose names have been deleted go? Does Centre have any rehabilitation program for them? Ultimately it is Bengal which will suffer.Its just vote politics by BJP. Request Home Minister to bring an amendment : West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRCAssam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRCAssam</a> <a href="https://t.co/dicIhibxNV">pic.twitter.com/dicIhibxNV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023837831574290433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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She asked if the centre has any rehabilitation program for those who have been excluded. Describing the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-an-explainer-155549">NRC move</a> as BJP's vote politics, she noted that "ultimately it is Bengal which will suffer... request Home Minister to bring an amendment".&nbsp;

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People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. Its a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRCAssam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRCAssam</a> <a href="https://t.co/VRc1hbgJJH">pic.twitter.com/VRc1hbgJJH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023836917815803905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee said that the people of Assam are suffering and are being isolated through a game plan, they are being made refugees in their own country.&nbsp;

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There were people who have Aaadhar cards and passports but still their names are not in the draft list. Names of people were removed on the basis of surnames also. Is the Govt trying to do forceful eviction?: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRCAssam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRCAssam</a> <a href="https://t.co/AmMfo46kDQ">pic.twitter.com/AmMfo46kDQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023834515536527360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. Its a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also," the Chief Minister added.&nbsp;

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I will also try to go to Assam, my MPs are already going. Let's see if they are restricted or not: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRCAssam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRCAssam</a> <a href="https://t.co/O5hMJMFOxY">pic.twitter.com/O5hMJMFOxY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023839586554970112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"There were people who have Aaadhar cards and passports, still their names are not in the draft list. Names of people were removed on the basis of surnames also. Is the government trying to do forceful eviction?" Banerjee enquired.&nbsp;

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I want to ask the Opposition, what is the Centre's role in this? It is happening under the supervision of the Supreme Court. Such sensitive issues should not be politicized: HM Rajnath Singh in Lok Sabha on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRCAssam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRCAssam</a> <a href="https://t.co/vwWTGoJMs9">pic.twitter.com/vwWTGoJMs9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023823381257437184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in the Parliament today stated that the NRC move is "happening under the supervision of the Supreme Court".

"I want to ask the Opposition, what is the Centre's role in this? Such sensitive issues should not be politicized," <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/no-coercive-action-will-be-taken-against-anyone-no-need-to-panic-rajnath-singh-on-nrc-155661">he noted</a>.&nbsp;

She asked if the centre has any rehabilitation program for those who have been excluded from the NRC list.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lashed out at the central government after 40 lakh people were excluded in the final draft of Assam's NRC report on Monday. "Where will the 40 lakh people, whose names have been deleted, go?" Banerjee asked. Where will the 40 lakh people whose names have been deleted go? Does Centre have any rehabilitation program for them? Ultimately it is Bengal which will suffer.Its just vote politics by BJP. Request Home Minister to bring an amendment : West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee #NRCAssam pic.twitter.com/dicIhibxNV — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × She asked if the centre has any rehabilitation program for those who have been excluded. Describing the NRC move as BJP's vote politics, she noted that "ultimately it is Bengal which will suffer... request Home Minister to bring an amendment". People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. Its a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee #NRCAssam pic.twitter.com/VRc1hbgJJH — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × Banerjee said that the people of Assam are suffering and are being isolated through a game plan, they are being made refugees in their own country. There were people who have Aaadhar cards and passports but still their names are not in the draft list. Names of people were removed on the basis of surnames also. Is the Govt trying to do forceful eviction?: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on #NRCAssam pic.twitter.com/AmMfo46kDQ — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × "People are being isolated through a game plan. We are worried because people are being made refugees in their own country. Its a plan to throw out Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Consequences will be felt in our state also," the Chief Minister added. I will also try to go to Assam, my MPs are already going. Let's see if they are restricted or not: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee #NRCAssam pic.twitter.com/O5hMJMFOxY — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × "There were people who have Aaadhar cards and passports, still their names are not in the draft list. Names of people were removed on the basis of surnames also. Is the government trying to do forceful eviction?" Banerjee enquired. I want to ask the Opposition, what is the Centre's role in this? It is happening under the supervision of the Supreme Court. Such sensitive issues should not be politicized: HM Rajnath Singh in Lok Sabha on #NRCAssam pic.twitter.com/vwWTGoJMs9 — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in the Parliament today stated that the NRC move is "happening under the supervision of the Supreme Court". "I want to ask the Opposition, what is the Centre's role in this? Such sensitive issues should not be politicized," he noted.

People are being made refugees in their own country: Mamata Banerjee slams centre on NRC move

Former Tripura chief minister Manik Sarkar has claimed that no incident of lynching occurred in the 25-year rule of the Left Front in the state and said such incidents happen when a government fails to deliver on its promises and wants to divert the attention of people pointing fingers at it.

The Left leader, who was in Delhi recently to participate in a protest organised by the five Left parties against the "murder of democracy" in Tripura and West Bengal and incidents of lynching, alleged that the BJP failed to fulfil the promises it made in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and was "trying to divide society on the basis of class and creed". Referring to the lynching of four people in Tripura, the former state chief minister claimed "such incidents never happened in the 25-year-long Left Front rule".

&nbspAccording to him, "such incidents happen when the government cannot fulfil the promises made during elections and wants to divert the attention of people pointing fingers at them".

Incidents of child lifting, mob killing and cow vigilantism are part of the BJP's "sinister design" to divert people's attention from the failures of its government at the Centre, Mr Sarkar alleged.

Minorities and Dalits are the "worst victim of this fear psychosis" prevailing in the country. "The government wants to muzzle the voices of those who oppose the BJP," he claimed.

Earlier, the Left Front in Tripura had accused the BJP of creating a "situation of frenzy" in the state and alleged that the incidents of mob lynching were part of a "greater conspiracy".

"A movement is taking shape against them because they failed the people. The BJP is scared because of this and is realising that people have turned against them. Suddenly, mob killings&nbsphave started... This is the way they want to divert people's attention from their weaknesses," he alleged.

Criticising the Biplab Deb-led BJP dispensation in the state, he said that just like the Centre, in Tripura, too, the state government has not been able to fulfil its promises made in the run-up to the assembly elections.

He complained that no work was being done under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, "a source of income for tribal and non-tribal people in the rural areas".

"Now starvation has started. The situation has put pressure on the state economy. Trade and business has come to a standstill. People have started questioning the government," he claimed.&nbsp

Minorities and Dalits are the 'worst victim of this fear psychosis' prevailing in the country. 'The government wants to muzzle the voices of those who oppose the BJP,' he claimed.

Former Tripura chief minister Manik Sarkar has claimed that no incident of lynching occurred in the 25-year rule of the Left Front in the state and said such incidents happen when a government fails to deliver on its promises and wants to divert the attention of people pointing fingers at it. The Left leader, who was in Delhi recently to participate in a protest organised by the five Left parties against the "murder of democracy" in Tripura and West Bengal and incidents of lynching, alleged that the BJP failed to fulfil the promises it made in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and was "trying to divide society on the basis of class and creed". Referring to the lynching of four people in Tripura, the former state chief minister claimed "such incidents never happened in the 25-year-long Left Front rule". &nbspAccording to him, "such incidents happen when the government cannot fulfil the promises made during elections and wants to divert the attention of people pointing fingers at them". Incidents of child lifting, mob killing and cow vigilantism are part of the BJP's "sinister design" to divert people's attention from the failures of its government at the Centre, Mr Sarkar alleged. Minorities and Dalits are the "worst victim of this fear psychosis" prevailing in the country. "The government wants to muzzle the voices of those who oppose the BJP," he claimed. Earlier, the Left Front in Tripura had accused the BJP of creating a "situation of frenzy" in the state and alleged that the incidents of mob lynching were part of a "greater conspiracy". "A movement is taking shape against them because they failed the people. The BJP is scared because of this and is realising that people have turned against them. Suddenly, mob killings&nbsphave started... This is the way they want to divert people's attention from their weaknesses," he alleged. Criticising the Biplab Deb-led BJP dispensation in the state, he said that just like the Centre, in Tripura, too, the state government has not been able to fulfil its promises made in the run-up to the assembly elections. He complained that no work was being done under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, "a source of income for tribal and non-tribal people in the rural areas". "Now starvation has started. The situation has put pressure on the state economy. Trade and business has come to a standstill. People have started questioning the government," he claimed.

No lynching in Tripura in 25 years of Left govt: Ex Tripura CM Manik Sarkar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation in the 46th episode of his 'Mann ki Baat.'

The programme was live streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, All India Radio (AIR) and DD News. Simultaneously, the programme was also&nbsp;broadcast&nbsp;on AIR's website - www.allindiaradio.gov.in.

PM Modi began his address by paying respect to famous poet Neeraj ji who passed away recently. "Neeraj exuded hope, faith, resolve and confidence. We can draw a lot of inspiration from him," Modi&nbsp;said. Modi also&nbsp;paid tributes to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad, whose 112th birth anniversary was celebrated on July 23.

PM Modi remembered freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak and praised his spirit to serve the country. He said Tilak had the courage and intelligence to fight the British. His services to the country are commendable.

He also spoke about the nail-biting Thailand cave rescue operation and asked the nation to be patient while tackling crisis like situations.&nbsp;

PM Modi also hailed the achievements of athletes Hima Das and Ekta Bhyan and applauded their efforts and dedication. Das, who won&nbsp;gold for 400 meter race at Junior Under 20 World Athletic Championship and Bhyan, who won&nbsp;gold and bronze at World Para Athlete Grand Prix 2018, faced the challenges head-on to achieve what they have achieved, he said.&nbsp;

Turning his attention towards the students who passed out of schools this year, he said many will be leaving their villages and homes for the first time. "They should enjoy themselves," Modi said.

"I came across the news of a student Asharam Chowdhary from Madhya Pradesh belonging to an extremely poor family. He cleared the medical entrance examination in his first attempt to get admission for MBBS at Jodhpur AIIMS. His father is a rag-picker. I congratulate him on his success," Modi said. &nbsp;

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There are many examples, Prince Kumar,Delhi whose father is a DTC bus driver, Abhay Gupta,Kolkata who studied under street lights or Afreen Sheikh,Ahmedabad whose father is an auto driver, all of them with their strong will & determination overcame hurdles & achieved success: PM <a href="https://t.co/lSbdLAvz0V">pic.twitter.com/lSbdLAvz0V</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023452692172042241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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When I visited San Jose (US), I appealed to Indian youth there to find ways to help India through technology.Two IT professionals from Raebareli accepted challenge,developed a SmartGaon App,with this villagers can get all information on their mobiles phones: PM Modi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> <a href="https://t.co/kUaBHgSSGP">pic.twitter.com/kUaBHgSSGP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023448070682361856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Raising his concern&nbsp;over the degradation of the environment, PM Modi appealed to the citizens to celebrate the festival of Ganesh Utsav in an eco-friendly manner.

During his last address, the prime minister highlighted the success of the Yoga Day and said that it has ushered a "wellness revolution."

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It is streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, All India Radio (AIR) and DD News.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation in the 46th episode of his 'Mann ki Baat.' The programme was live streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, All India Radio (AIR) and DD News. Simultaneously, the programme was also broadcast on AIR's website - www.allindiaradio.gov.in. PM Modi began his address by paying respect to famous poet Neeraj ji who passed away recently. "Neeraj exuded hope, faith, resolve and confidence. We can draw a lot of inspiration from him," Modi said. Modi also paid tributes to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad, whose 112th birth anniversary was celebrated on July 23. PM Modi remembered freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak and praised his spirit to serve the country. He said Tilak had the courage and intelligence to fight the British. His services to the country are commendable. He also spoke about the nail-biting Thailand cave rescue operation and asked the nation to be patient while tackling crisis like situations. PM Modi also hailed the achievements of athletes Hima Das and Ekta Bhyan and applauded their efforts and dedication. Das, who won gold for 400 meter race at Junior Under 20 World Athletic Championship and Bhyan, who won gold and bronze at World Para Athlete Grand Prix 2018, faced the challenges head-on to achieve what they have achieved, he said. Turning his attention towards the students who passed out of schools this year, he said many will be leaving their villages and homes for the first time. "They should enjoy themselves," Modi said. "I came across the news of a student Asharam Chowdhary from Madhya Pradesh belonging to an extremely poor family. He cleared the medical entrance examination in his first attempt to get admission for MBBS at Jodhpur AIIMS. His father is a rag-picker. I congratulate him on his success," Modi said. There are many examples, Prince Kumar,Delhi whose father is a DTC bus driver, Abhay Gupta,Kolkata who studied under street lights or Afreen Sheikh,Ahmedabad whose father is an auto driver, all of them with their strong will & determination overcame hurdles & achieved success: PM pic.twitter.com/lSbdLAvz0V — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × When I visited San Jose (US), I appealed to Indian youth there to find ways to help India through technology.Two IT professionals from Raebareli accepted challenge,developed a SmartGaon App,with this villagers can get all information on their mobiles phones: PM Modi #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/kUaBHgSSGP — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × Raising his concern over the degradation of the environment, PM Modi appealed to the citizens to celebrate the festival of Ganesh Utsav in an eco-friendly manner. During his last address, the prime minister highlighted the success of the Yoga Day and said that it has ushered a "wellness revolution."

PM Modi hails achievements of athletes, students in 'Mann Ki Baat'

A total of 30 bodies have been recovered till now from accident site after a bus carrying staff members of agriculture university plunged into a gorge in the mountainous section of Poladpur in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/32-people-reported-killed-after-bus-falls-into-gorge-in-maharashtras-raigad-district-155272">Raigad</a> district of Maharashtra on Saturday.

A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed to help in the rescue operations.

Giving out the details of the accident, Raigad guardian minister Ravindra Chavan said that bus fell down into gorge due to the driver's fault and only one passenger survived the fall.

"Bus fell in a 500-feet gorge due to the fault of the driver. Only one passenger has survived. We are trying to recover the bodies," Chavan said.

Thirty-three passengers died in the accident which took place at around 12.30 pm, he said.

SP Anil Paraskar said the passengers were on their way to Mahabaleshwar, a hill station in Satara district in Western Maharashtra, for a picnic, when the driver lost control over the vehicle while negotiating a turn and it fell into the gorge.

All the bus passengers were the staff of the Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth at Dapoli in Raigad district, he said.

All the bus passengers were the staff of the Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth at Dapoli in Raigad district, he said.

A total of 30 bodies have been recovered till now from accident site after a bus carrying staff members of agriculture university plunged into a gorge in the mountainous section of Poladpur in Raigad district of Maharashtra on Saturday. A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed to help in the rescue operations. Giving out the details of the accident, Raigad guardian minister Ravindra Chavan said that bus fell down into gorge due to the driver's fault and only one passenger survived the fall. "Bus fell in a 500-feet gorge due to the fault of the driver. Only one passenger has survived. We are trying to recover the bodies," Chavan said. Thirty-three passengers died in the accident which took place at around 12.30 pm, he said. SP Anil Paraskar said the passengers were on their way to Mahabaleshwar, a hill station in Satara district in Western Maharashtra, for a picnic, when the driver lost control over the vehicle while negotiating a turn and it fell into the gorge. All the bus passengers were the staff of the Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth at Dapoli in Raigad district, he said.

Raigad bus accident: 30 bodies recovered till now from accident site

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;on Sunday&nbsp;said the state has been successful in attaining a position in top five states in the country in terms of ease of doing business.

Adityanath was speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony in Lucknow where Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik launched various projects worth Rs. 60,000 crore.

During the event, the Chief Minister also attacked the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and said, "When BSP was in power, Rs. 50,000 crore was invested&nbsp;in five years, while the BJP government has invested Rs. 60,000 crore in just one year.

He further informed that more proposals worth Rs. 50,000 crore are in pipeline, which will start soon.

Aditya Nath was speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony in Lucknow where Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik launched various projects worth Rs. 60, 000 crores.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said the state has been successful in attaining a position in top five states in the country in terms of ease of doing business. Adityanath was speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony in Lucknow where Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik launched various projects worth Rs. 60,000 crore. During the event, the Chief Minister also attacked the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and said, "When BSP was in power, Rs. 50,000 crore was invested in five years, while the BJP government has invested Rs. 60,000 crore in just one year. He further informed that more proposals worth Rs. 50,000 crore are in pipeline, which will start soon.

Ease of doing business: UP among top 5 states, says Yogi Adityanath

After picking up over 9,000 beggars from the city as part of its 'beggar-free' drive, the Telangana Prisons department has decided to extend the project by establishing rehabilitation centres for them in all districts.

The department had last year set up 'Anand Ashrams' (special homes) for rehabilitation of beggars in Chanchalguda and Cherlapalli (central prisons premises) in the city after launching a drive in coordination with police and municipal authorities to curb 'begging menace.'

So far 5,725 male beggars and 3,470 female beggars from various localities of the city have been admitted to 'Anand Ashrams'.

Out of them 5,500 male beggars and 3,401 female beggars were released on their personal undertaking not to resort to begging again.

However, over 200 persons were again caught begging and shifted to the ashrams, Prisons department officials said.

As on date, 225 male beggars and 69 female beggars are in 'Anand Ashrams', he noted.

"We wanted to extend this programme from Hyderabad to all other districts and have sent a proposal to the government in this regard.

The government is considering our proposal very positively," Director General (Prisons and Correctional Services) Vinoy Kumar Singh told us.

Singh claimed that Hyderabad has been made 'beggar-free,' but certain beggars were commuting from different districts to this city and again going back in the night which is making it difficult to control the menace.

"Unless we extend the facility to different districts, it will not be possible to totally sanitise Hyderabad.

This (rehabilitating beggars) is a big and highly praiseworthy social intervention programme of the Prisons Department and we may soon get orders from the government to extend it to other districts of Telangana.

As indications have been given, it (orders) should come soon," Singh hoped.

'Anand Ashram' is the first step of the Prisons Department, which has taken up the task of social service to humanity, he said adding the objectives include serving people at the lowest rung of the society and to safeguard the public order and law in the society by eradicating begging.

Beggars are brought to 'Anand Ashrams' through regular drives and five buses ply round-the-clock covering entire Hyderabad.

During admission of the beggars, biometric details like fingerprints and photographs are captured through scans and uploaded into the system to identify repeat beggars.

Inmates of the ashrams are provided food, accommodation, education facilities to learn basic education and these centres also have facilities to impart or upgrade skills, and the willing beggars are provided employment in prison industries or outside in private firms, officials said.

The Department with a view to involve the public in this project and create public awareness offers a reward of Rs 1,000 to those who give information about the beggars.&nbsp;

So far 5,725 male beggars and 3,470 female beggars from various localities of the city have been admitted to 'Anand Ashrams'

After picking up over 9,000 beggars from the city as part of its 'beggar-free' drive, the Telangana Prisons department has decided to extend the project by establishing rehabilitation centres for them in all districts. The department had last year set up 'Anand Ashrams' (special homes) for rehabilitation of beggars in Chanchalguda and Cherlapalli (central prisons premises) in the city after launching a drive in coordination with police and municipal authorities to curb 'begging menace.' So far 5,725 male beggars and 3,470 female beggars from various localities of the city have been admitted to 'Anand Ashrams'. Out of them 5,500 male beggars and 3,401 female beggars were released on their personal undertaking not to resort to begging again. However, over 200 persons were again caught begging and shifted to the ashrams, Prisons department officials said. As on date, 225 male beggars and 69 female beggars are in 'Anand Ashrams', he noted. "We wanted to extend this programme from Hyderabad to all other districts and have sent a proposal to the government in this regard. The government is considering our proposal very positively," Director General (Prisons and Correctional Services) Vinoy Kumar Singh told us. Singh claimed that Hyderabad has been made 'beggar-free,' but certain beggars were commuting from different districts to this city and again going back in the night which is making it difficult to control the menace. "Unless we extend the facility to different districts, it will not be possible to totally sanitise Hyderabad. This (rehabilitating beggars) is a big and highly praiseworthy social intervention programme of the Prisons Department and we may soon get orders from the government to extend it to other districts of Telangana. As indications have been given, it (orders) should come soon," Singh hoped. 'Anand Ashram' is the first step of the Prisons Department, which has taken up the task of social service to humanity, he said adding the objectives include serving people at the lowest rung of the society and to safeguard the public order and law in the society by eradicating begging. Beggars are brought to 'Anand Ashrams' through regular drives and five buses ply round-the-clock covering entire Hyderabad. During admission of the beggars, biometric details like fingerprints and photographs are captured through scans and uploaded into the system to identify repeat beggars. Inmates of the ashrams are provided food, accommodation, education facilities to learn basic education and these centres also have facilities to impart or upgrade skills, and the willing beggars are provided employment in prison industries or outside in private firms, officials said. The Department with a view to involve the public in this project and create public awareness offers a reward of Rs 1,000 to those who give information about the beggars.

Prison department to set up rehab centres for beggars across Telangana

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah has favoured dissolution of the state assembly so that horse trading is put to rest and all the political parties prepare the ground for fresh elections.

The National Conference leader, however, hoped that Governor's rule would stay for some time "so that some stability returns" to the state.&nbsp;

"I think one of the good things is Governor's rule right now in the state. The focus now is on the development and he (N N Vohra) has been able to give a solid administration which is unbiased. At the same time, he wants peace to return to the state and is taking measures to see that people are not harassed unnecessarily," Abdullah, a Lok Sabha member, said during an interview with us.

In reply to a question about the governor administration preparing the ground for holding panchayat and municipal elections, Abdullah said it was a good development.&nbsp;

"Let them prepare the ground for this, then political parties will decide for themselves whether they are ready or not. First, the ground needs to be prepared," he said.

About the reports of formation of an alternative government in the state, Abdullah said, "I think immediately after the BJP withdrew the support, the normal process must be that the state assembly is dissolved to hit the chances of horse trading or otherwise that will affect the democratic institutions in the state," averred Abdullah.

"Therefore, the quicker the assembly is dissolved, the quicker the people can prepare themselves for the future elections," he said.

The BJP pulled out of the alliance government with the PDP on&nbsp;June 19, forcing Mehbooba Mufti to resign as chief minister of the state.

Abdullah, who has been chief minister of the state on three earlier occasions including the worst period of militancy between 1996 and 2002, did not agree with Mehbooba Mufti's statement that if Delhi attempted to break her party, militancy would increase.

"As far as her statement that more militants will be created is concerned, it is not absolutely correct. But at the same time, I must say that if horse trading is done, the electorate will lose hope of ever having there own representatives running the state and I quite agree that this practice is bad for democracy. The only answer is fresh elections," he said.

Asked whether the BJP's decision to pull out was right, Abduallh said, "I think after seeing the situation going from bad to worse and polarisation growing at a faster rate between the two divisions of the state, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;had no other way out but to request his party to withdraw the support."

Asked to comment on the Mehbooba Mufti-led government and its failure to prevent youths from joining militant ranks, he said the PDP came to power because they promised people that they will keep the RSS and the BJP out. Post elections, they made a complete U-turn and shook hands with the BJP.&nbsp;

"That was one of the blows. That is why you find that most of the tragedies occurred in South Kashmir where they received a maximum number of votes. The second reason was total misgovernance, corruption to heights, anti-people policies. They lost the grip on the situation," he added.

"Jobs, transfers and ad-hoc appointments were done through the back door which only aggravated the situation," he said.

Asked to comment on Imran Khan's victory in Pakistan, Abdullah said Khan's victory was a new dimension not only in Pakistan but for the sub-continent.&nbsp;

He said Khan was a sportsperson and had always been positive wherever India was concerned which included his interaction in Delhi where he was always looking forward to a better Indo-Pak relation. Recently after his party won, he projected that he wanted peace between India and Pakistan which included solving of all problems across the table.

"Secondly, he (Khan) mentioned that Kashmir is a festering problem between the two countries and that should be settled by talking so that all this bloodshed can stop and the people of the state can live in peace and harmony," the NC leader said.

"Well, a tall order, it will depend entirely on how he and his government move against terrorism and try and build bridges which will not only strengthen relations between India and Pakistan but also SAARC which has been suffering for so many years. Better relations will also have an effect on Afghanistan because these two neighbouring countries can play an important role in bringing peace to that country," he said.

About his name figuring in the charge sheet filed by the CBI in Rs 200 crore Jammu and Kashmir cricket scam, Abdullah said, "I would not like to talk about the case as the matter is sub-judice. We will wait for the trial to begin. I have full faith in the judiciary and I will get justice."

The National Conference leader, however, hoped that Governor's rule would stay for some time 'so that some stability returns' to the state.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah has favoured dissolution of the state assembly so that horse trading is put to rest and all the political parties prepare the ground for fresh elections. The National Conference leader, however, hoped that Governor's rule would stay for some time "so that some stability returns" to the state. "I think one of the good things is Governor's rule right now in the state. The focus now is on the development and he (N N Vohra) has been able to give a solid administration which is unbiased. At the same time, he wants peace to return to the state and is taking measures to see that people are not harassed unnecessarily," Abdullah, a Lok Sabha member, said during an interview with us. In reply to a question about the governor administration preparing the ground for holding panchayat and municipal elections, Abdullah said it was a good development. "Let them prepare the ground for this, then political parties will decide for themselves whether they are ready or not. First, the ground needs to be prepared," he said. About the reports of formation of an alternative government in the state, Abdullah said, "I think immediately after the BJP withdrew the support, the normal process must be that the state assembly is dissolved to hit the chances of horse trading or otherwise that will affect the democratic institutions in the state," averred Abdullah. "Therefore, the quicker the assembly is dissolved, the quicker the people can prepare themselves for the future elections," he said. The BJP pulled out of the alliance government with the PDP on June 19, forcing Mehbooba Mufti to resign as chief minister of the state. Abdullah, who has been chief minister of the state on three earlier occasions including the worst period of militancy between 1996 and 2002, did not agree with Mehbooba Mufti's statement that if Delhi attempted to break her party, militancy would increase. "As far as her statement that more militants will be created is concerned, it is not absolutely correct. But at the same time, I must say that if horse trading is done, the electorate will lose hope of ever having there own representatives running the state and I quite agree that this practice is bad for democracy. The only answer is fresh elections," he said. Asked whether the BJP's decision to pull out was right, Abduallh said, "I think after seeing the situation going from bad to worse and polarisation growing at a faster rate between the two divisions of the state, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had no other way out but to request his party to withdraw the support." Asked to comment on the Mehbooba Mufti-led government and its failure to prevent youths from joining militant ranks, he said the PDP came to power because they promised people that they will keep the RSS and the BJP out. Post elections, they made a complete U-turn and shook hands with the BJP. "That was one of the blows. That is why you find that most of the tragedies occurred in South Kashmir where they received a maximum number of votes. The second reason was total misgovernance, corruption to heights, anti-people policies. They lost the grip on the situation," he added. "Jobs, transfers and ad-hoc appointments were done through the back door which only aggravated the situation," he said. Asked to comment on Imran Khan's victory in Pakistan, Abdullah said Khan's victory was a new dimension not only in Pakistan but for the sub-continent. He said Khan was a sportsperson and had always been positive wherever India was concerned which included his interaction in Delhi where he was always looking forward to a better Indo-Pak relation. Recently after his party won, he projected that he wanted peace between India and Pakistan which included solving of all problems across the table. "Secondly, he (Khan) mentioned that Kashmir is a festering problem between the two countries and that should be settled by talking so that all this bloodshed can stop and the people of the state can live in peace and harmony," the NC leader said. "Well, a tall order, it will depend entirely on how he and his government move against terrorism and try and build bridges which will not only strengthen relations between India and Pakistan but also SAARC which has been suffering for so many years. Better relations will also have an effect on Afghanistan because these two neighbouring countries can play an important role in bringing peace to that country," he said. About his name figuring in the charge sheet filed by the CBI in Rs 200 crore Jammu and Kashmir cricket scam, Abdullah said, "I would not like to talk about the case as the matter is sub-judice. We will wait for the trial to begin. I have full faith in the judiciary and I will get justice."

Dissolve J&K assembly, prepare ground for fresh elections: Farooq Abdullah

An Indian-American senatorial candidate has been assaulted allegedly by a racist man who punched him in the face leaving him severely bleeding at a town hall in Massachusetts, according to media reports.

Shiva Ayyadurai, 54, who is running Independent against powerful incumbent Elizabeth Warren from the Democratic party was attacked last week by her supporter, Boston.Com reported.

Ayyadurai, an eminent scientist and an outspoken critic, was punched by a man, wearing a t-shirt which said "liberal" and a Warren for Senate sticker, the report added.

He approached Ayyadurai with an umbrella while he bullhorned a queue of Warren supporters outside a town hall in Great Barrington, where the Democratic Senator was scheduled to appear, the report said.

"I was just punched in the face by a racist @SenWarren supporter," Ayyadurai tweeted.

"This is how these white privileged white supremacists react. What you just witnessed is how you white supremacists react when you don't want to hear the truth from a dark-skinned Indian guy. The same guy you claim you want to help. You guys are racists," Ayyadurai said.

He received a bloody lip, swelling, and abrasions, the report said.

The encounter played out as a crowd of Warren supporters waited to enter a center, the Great Barrington police said in a statement. Paul Solovay left the line, crossed Castle Street, and approached Ayyadurai.

"Solovay allegedly engaged in a verbal confrontation that became physical when he pushed the bullhorn toward the speaker, striking his mouth," police said. "Officers acted quickly to subdue Solovay and place him into custody."

"We don't produce enough engineers. We don't produce enough doctors. But we do produce a bunch of scumbag lawyer lobbyists like Elizabeth Warren,? Ayyadurai says in the video before it cuts to Solovay shouting at him from across the street.

When the two come face to face, Ayyadurai repeatedly calls Solovay a racist through the megaphone before the 74-year-old pushes it into his face, the video shows.

Solovay, who was charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct, pleaded not guilty on Monday in Southern Berkshire District Court. He was released on personal recognizance.

(With PTI inputs)

Shiva Ayyadurai, 54, who is running Independent against powerful incumbent Elizabeth Warren from the Democratic party was attacked last week by her supporter, Boston.Com reported.

An Indian-American senatorial candidate has been assaulted allegedly by a racist man who punched him in the face leaving him severely bleeding at a town hall in Massachusetts, according to media reports. Shiva Ayyadurai, 54, who is running Independent against powerful incumbent Elizabeth Warren from the Democratic party was attacked last week by her supporter, Boston.Com reported. Ayyadurai, an eminent scientist and an outspoken critic, was punched by a man, wearing a t-shirt which said "liberal" and a Warren for Senate sticker, the report added. He approached Ayyadurai with an umbrella while he bullhorned a queue of Warren supporters outside a town hall in Great Barrington, where the Democratic Senator was scheduled to appear, the report said. "I was just punched in the face by a racist @SenWarren supporter," Ayyadurai tweeted. "This is how these white privileged white supremacists react. What you just witnessed is how you white supremacists react when you don't want to hear the truth from a dark-skinned Indian guy. The same guy you claim you want to help. You guys are racists," Ayyadurai said. He received a bloody lip, swelling, and abrasions, the report said. The encounter played out as a crowd of Warren supporters waited to enter a center, the Great Barrington police said in a statement. Paul Solovay left the line, crossed Castle Street, and approached Ayyadurai. "Solovay allegedly engaged in a verbal confrontation that became physical when he pushed the bullhorn toward the speaker, striking his mouth," police said. "Officers acted quickly to subdue Solovay and place him into custody." "We don't produce enough engineers. We don't produce enough doctors. But we do produce a bunch of scumbag lawyer lobbyists like Elizabeth Warren,? Ayyadurai says in the video before it cuts to Solovay shouting at him from across the street. When the two come face to face, Ayyadurai repeatedly calls Solovay a racist through the megaphone before the 74-year-old pushes it into his face, the video shows. Solovay, who was charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct, pleaded not guilty on Monday in Southern Berkshire District Court. He was released on personal recognizance. (With PTI inputs)

Indian-American senatorial candidate attacked by 'racist' Elizabeth Warren supporter

Assam will release the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-or-not-muslims-fret-amid-drive-against-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-28485">second and final draft</a> of its National Register of Citizens tomorrow at noon.&nbsp;

If the name of a resident of the state is on the list, then he or she is a citizen of Assam and therefore India if not, then he or she will have to prove his or her citizenship.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court-mandated NRC is part of Assam's efforts to identify Bangladeshi citizens living in Assam. The northeast state has had a long history of migration from neighbouring Bangladesh where the pressure of population forces people to migrate out of the country in search for a living.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-an-explainer-155549">Assam's National Register of Citizens</a>: An explainer

The NRC's first list was published on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1. It carried 1.9 crore names out of a total of 3.29 crore residents. That means some 1.4 crore people will find out tomorrow if they are on the list or not.&nbsp;

The NRC uses March 25, 1971 as its cut-off date. If an Assamese resident has been living in the state since before then, he is considered a citizen.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-assams-national-register-of-citizens-is-a-futile-process-28299">Assam's National Register of Citizens is a futile process</a>

The draft will be published at all NRC Sewa Kendras (NSK) across the state and applicants can check their names in the list which will include the applicant's name, address and photographs, PTI quoted NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajela as saying.&nbsp;

Hajela has pointed out that there will be enough scope for claims by people whose names do not appear in the draft and "genuine citizens should not panic if their names fail to figure in the document."

If a person's name does not appear in the draft then he or she will have to apply in prescribed forms in their respective Sewa Kendras and these forms will be available from August 7 to September 28 and the authorities will inform them about the&nbsp;reasons for their names being left out.

The next step will be to file the claim in another prescribed form which will be available from August 30 to September 28 next and these claims will be finally disposed of after proper hearing.

The state government meanwhile has beefed up security.&nbsp;

PTI reported a senior police official as saying district deputy commissioners and superintendents of police have been directed to maintain strict vigil.&nbsp;

PTI added that vulnerable areas have been identified in their district by superintendents of police and that the situation is being closely monitored to prevent any untoward incident, especially those arising from rumour-mongering.

The Centre meanwhile has despatched 220 companies of central armed police forces to buttress security.

And Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a high-level meeting recently on the NRC draft release and directed officers to remain alert and to help and explain the process of claims and objections to people whose names do not appear in the draft.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The second list of the National Register of Citizens will be published at noon tomorrow. The register uses March 25, 1971 as its cut-off date. If a resident or his or her family has been living in the state since before then, then he or she is a citizen of Assam and therefore India

Assam will release the second and final draft of its National Register of Citizens tomorrow at noon. If the name of a resident of the state is on the list, then he or she is a citizen of Assam and therefore India if not, then he or she will have to prove his or her citizenship. The Supreme Court-mandated NRC is part of Assam's efforts to identify Bangladeshi citizens living in Assam. The northeast state has had a long history of migration from neighbouring Bangladesh where the pressure of population forces people to migrate out of the country in search for a living. Assam's National Register of Citizens: An explainer The NRC's first list was published on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1. It carried 1.9 crore names out of a total of 3.29 crore residents. That means some 1.4 crore people will find out tomorrow if they are on the list or not. The NRC uses March 25, 1971 as its cut-off date. If an Assamese resident has been living in the state since before then, he is considered a citizen. Also read: Assam's National Register of Citizens is a futile process The draft will be published at all NRC Sewa Kendras (NSK) across the state and applicants can check their names in the list which will include the applicant's name, address and photographs, PTI quoted NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajela as saying. Hajela has pointed out that there will be enough scope for claims by people whose names do not appear in the draft and "genuine citizens should not panic if their names fail to figure in the document." If a person's name does not appear in the draft then he or she will have to apply in prescribed forms in their respective Sewa Kendras and these forms will be available from August 7 to September 28 and the authorities will inform them about the reasons for their names being left out. The next step will be to file the claim in another prescribed form which will be available from August 30 to September 28 next and these claims will be finally disposed of after proper hearing. The state government meanwhile has beefed up security. PTI reported a senior police official as saying district deputy commissioners and superintendents of police have been directed to maintain strict vigil. PTI added that vulnerable areas have been identified in their district by superintendents of police and that the situation is being closely monitored to prevent any untoward incident, especially those arising from rumour-mongering. The Centre meanwhile has despatched 220 companies of central armed police forces to buttress security. And Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a high-level meeting recently on the NRC draft release and directed officers to remain alert and to help and explain the process of claims and objections to people whose names do not appear in the draft. (With inputs from PTI)

Assam to release second & final draft of register of citizens on Monday

Assam has since 2015 checked up on every single one of its 3.3 crore residents, asking them to provide documentation to show that they or their families have been living in Assam since before March 25, 1971. Only if the residents are able to show the documentation, will they be considered citizens of Assam, and therefore, of India.&nbsp

 
National Register of Citizens 
This massive undertaking is called the National Register of Citizens. A first draft of the NRC was published on December 31/ January 1.&nbsp

A total of 1.9 crore residents found their names on the list.&nbsp

That leaves 1.4 crore people. Now, a second and final draft will be <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-to-release-second--final-draft-of-register-of-citizens-tomorrow-155486">released at noon on Monday</a>.&nbsp

 
Why?&nbsp 
Assam has witnessed a long history of migration from neighbouring Bangladesh. (Bangladesh, then called East Pakistan, declared its independence from Pakistan on March 26, 1971, which explains the cut-off date.) Experts have tried to explain that the migration is economic. That the pressure of population on the land in Bangladesh means people are forced to migrate — there just isn't enough land to feed everybody — and that it therefore cannot be stopped.&nbsp

But the migration has led to considerable ill will, with the local population saying the incoming Bangladeshis take up land (obviously) and jobs.&nbsp

And there have been allegations that the incoming population was offered citizenship in exchange for votes. The NRC, by the way, is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opinion-assams-national-register-of-citizens-is-a-futile-process-28299">Supreme Court-mandated</a>.&nbsp

&nbsp

What happens to the people who do not find their names on the list Monday?&nbsp 
Assam Finance Minister HImanta Biswa Sarma had said the people who did not find their names on the list would be segregated from the general population, and deported.&nbsp

But he passed the buck on to the Centre, saying the central government was responsible for deportation.&nbsp

But Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has since said that "Any person who is not satisfied with the outcome of claims and objections can appeal in the Foreigner’s Tribunal. Thus, there is no question of anyone being put in a detention centre after the publication of NRC."&nbsp

Assam will on Monday publish a second and final lift of its register of citizens

Assam has since 2015 checked up on every single one of its 3.3 crore residents, asking them to provide documentation to show that they or their families have been living in Assam since before March 25, 1971. Only if the residents are able to show the documentation, will they be considered citizens of Assam, and therefore, of India. National Register of Citizens This massive undertaking is called the National Register of Citizens. A first draft of the NRC was published on December 31/ January 1. A total of 1.9 crore residents found their names on the list. That leaves 1.4 crore people. Now, a second and final draft will be released at noon on Monday. Why? Assam has witnessed a long history of migration from neighbouring Bangladesh. (Bangladesh, then called East Pakistan, declared its independence from Pakistan on March 26, 1971, which explains the cut-off date.) Experts have tried to explain that the migration is economic. That the pressure of population on the land in Bangladesh means people are forced to migrate — there just isn't enough land to feed everybody — and that it therefore cannot be stopped. But the migration has led to considerable ill will, with the local population saying the incoming Bangladeshis take up land (obviously) and jobs. And there have been allegations that the incoming population was offered citizenship in exchange for votes. The NRC, by the way, is Supreme Court-mandated. What happens to the people who do not find their names on the list Monday? Assam Finance Minister HImanta Biswa Sarma had said the people who did not find their names on the list would be segregated from the general population, and deported. But he passed the buck on to the Centre, saying the central government was responsible for deportation. But Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has since said that "Any person who is not satisfied with the outcome of claims and objections can appeal in the Foreigner’s Tribunal. Thus, there is no question of anyone being put in a detention centre after the publication of NRC."

Assam's National Register of Citizens: An explainer

A meagre 27 per cent of people, accused of committing atrocities and crimes against scheduled castes and tribes, have been convicted during 2014-16 due to a variety of reasons like delay in lodging FIRs, prosecution unable to prove charges and witnesses turning hostile, reported news agency PTI.

According to a report compiled by the Union Home Ministry, the rate of conviction is low despite the country having 195 exclusive special courts to deal with the alleged crimes against SCs and STs.

The figures come amid the ongoing row over the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

In 2016, a total of 40,718 cases were registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of which charge sheets were filed in 30,966 cases and the conviction rate was 25.8 per cent, the home ministry says.

As many as 38,510 cases were registered in 2015 under the Act and charge sheets were registered in 26,922 of these cases, the conviction rate being 27.2 per cent.

In 2014, altogether 40,208 cases were registered. Charge sheets were filed in 29,248 of the cases and the conviction was rate was 28.4 per cent.

The data for 2017 is yet to be compiled.

The reasons for low conviction rate are mostly due to delay in lodging the FIR, witnesses and complainants becoming hostile, absence of proper scrutiny of the cases by prosecution before filing the charge sheet in the court, the ministry said.

Lack of proper presentation of a case by the prosecution and appreciation of evidence by the court, prosecution unable to prove the charges, long pendency of the trial makes the witness lose their interest and lack of corroborative evidence are some of the other reasons for the low rate of conviction, it said.

Section 14 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act specifies that for the purpose of providing for speedy trial, the state government shall, with the concurrence of the chief justice of the high court, establish an exclusive special court for one or more districts.

In the districts where less number of cases under this Act is recorded, the state governments shall, with the concurrence of the chief justice of the high court, specify for such districts, the court of session to be a special court to try the offences under the Act.

Accordingly, for ensuring speedy trials of cases under the Act, a total of 195 exclusive special courts have been set up in Andhra Pradesh (14), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (17), Gujarat (16), Karnataka (8), Kerala (3), Madhya Pradesh (43), Maharashtra (3), Odisha (3), Rajasthan (25), Tamil Nadu (6), Telangana (10), Uttar Pradesh (40) and Uttarakhand (2).

The apex court had on March 20 ruled that on "several occasions", innocent citizens were being termed as accused and public servants deterred from performing their duties, which was never the intention of the legislature while enacting the SC/ST Act.

Several states were rocked by widespread violence and clashes following a Bharat bandh call given by several SC/ST organisations protesting the top court's order. Eight persons died in the violence.

While hearing the Centre's review plea to stay the order, the top court had in April asserted that "no provisions of SC/ST Act have been diluted" and clarified that additional safeguards had been put in place "to protect the fundamental rights" of innocents.

Some Dalit groups have called a countrywide agitation on August 9 to protest the changes in the Act.

Union minister and Lok Janshakti Party leader Ram Vilas Paswan had written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday opposing the appointment of retired Supreme Court judge A K Goel as National Green Tribunal (NGT) chairman, since he was "the judge who ruled against" the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.&nbsp

(With PTI inputs)

As many as 38,510 cases were registered in 2015 under the Act and charge sheets were registered in 26,922 of these cases, the conviction rate being 27.2 per cent.

A meagre 27 per cent of people, accused of committing atrocities and crimes against scheduled castes and tribes, have been convicted during 2014-16 due to a variety of reasons like delay in lodging FIRs, prosecution unable to prove charges and witnesses turning hostile, reported news agency PTI. According to a report compiled by the Union Home Ministry, the rate of conviction is low despite the country having 195 exclusive special courts to deal with the alleged crimes against SCs and STs. The figures come amid the ongoing row over the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. In 2016, a total of 40,718 cases were registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of which charge sheets were filed in 30,966 cases and the conviction rate was 25.8 per cent, the home ministry says. As many as 38,510 cases were registered in 2015 under the Act and charge sheets were registered in 26,922 of these cases, the conviction rate being 27.2 per cent. In 2014, altogether 40,208 cases were registered. Charge sheets were filed in 29,248 of the cases and the conviction was rate was 28.4 per cent. The data for 2017 is yet to be compiled. The reasons for low conviction rate are mostly due to delay in lodging the FIR, witnesses and complainants becoming hostile, absence of proper scrutiny of the cases by prosecution before filing the charge sheet in the court, the ministry said. Lack of proper presentation of a case by the prosecution and appreciation of evidence by the court, prosecution unable to prove the charges, long pendency of the trial makes the witness lose their interest and lack of corroborative evidence are some of the other reasons for the low rate of conviction, it said. Section 14 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act specifies that for the purpose of providing for speedy trial, the state government shall, with the concurrence of the chief justice of the high court, establish an exclusive special court for one or more districts. In the districts where less number of cases under this Act is recorded, the state governments shall, with the concurrence of the chief justice of the high court, specify for such districts, the court of session to be a special court to try the offences under the Act. Accordingly, for ensuring speedy trials of cases under the Act, a total of 195 exclusive special courts have been set up in Andhra Pradesh (14), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (17), Gujarat (16), Karnataka (8), Kerala (3), Madhya Pradesh (43), Maharashtra (3), Odisha (3), Rajasthan (25), Tamil Nadu (6), Telangana (10), Uttar Pradesh (40) and Uttarakhand (2). The apex court had on March 20 ruled that on "several occasions", innocent citizens were being termed as accused and public servants deterred from performing their duties, which was never the intention of the legislature while enacting the SC/ST Act. Several states were rocked by widespread violence and clashes following a Bharat bandh call given by several SC/ST organisations protesting the top court's order. Eight persons died in the violence. While hearing the Centre's review plea to stay the order, the top court had in April asserted that "no provisions of SC/ST Act have been diluted" and clarified that additional safeguards had been put in place "to protect the fundamental rights" of innocents. Some Dalit groups have called a countrywide agitation on August 9 to protest the changes in the Act. Union minister and Lok Janshakti Party leader Ram Vilas Paswan had written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday opposing the appointment of retired Supreme Court judge A K Goel as National Green Tribunal (NGT) chairman, since he was "the judge who ruled against" the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. (With PTI inputs)

Conviction under SC/ST Act just 27 per cent in 2014-16

DMK chief M Karunanidhi's condition experienced&nbsp;a transient setback, the recently released medical report stated.

The report further said that with active medical support, his vital signs were normalising.

Currently the 94 years old is closely monitored under the supervision of a panel of expert doctors.&nbsp;

Earlier reports had said that the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu was&nbsp;extremely critical.

The family members along with senior leaders of his party had rushed to the hospital&nbsp;to attend the ailing veteran leader.

The media reports also stated that the doctors noticed a sharp drop in his pulse rate on Sunday evening.

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There was a transient setback in the clinical condition of Kalaignar M Karunanidhi, DMK President & Former CM of Tamil Nadu. With active medical support, his vital signs are normalising. he continues to be closely monitored & treated by panel of expert doctors: Kauvery Hospital
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023606291154063360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Tight security has been beefed up outside the DMK headquarters and Kauvery hospital, where Karunanidhi is admitted.

Karunanidhi was admitted to the&nbsp;hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. &nbsp;

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Outside visuals of Chennai's Kauvery hospital, where DMK Chief M Karunanidhi is admitted. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/FVrWHrm8RD">pic.twitter.com/FVrWHrm8RD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023593690403622912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, DMK leader A Raja requested the crowd to maintain calm and asked them to not to believe on rumours.

&nbsp;

The report further said that with active medical support, his vital signs were normalising.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi's condition experienced a transient setback, the recently released medical report stated. The report further said that with active medical support, his vital signs were normalising. Currently the 94 years old is closely monitored under the supervision of a panel of expert doctors. Earlier reports had said that the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu was extremely critical. The family members along with senior leaders of his party had rushed to the hospital to attend the ailing veteran leader. The media reports also stated that the doctors noticed a sharp drop in his pulse rate on Sunday evening. There was a transient setback in the clinical condition of Kalaignar M Karunanidhi, DMK President & Former CM of Tamil Nadu. With active medical support, his vital signs are normalising. he continues to be closely monitored & treated by panel of expert doctors: Kauvery Hospital — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × Tight security has been beefed up outside the DMK headquarters and Kauvery hospital, where Karunanidhi is admitted. Karunanidhi was admitted to the hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. Outside visuals of Chennai's Kauvery hospital, where DMK Chief M Karunanidhi is admitted. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/FVrWHrm8RD — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × Meanwhile, DMK leader A Raja requested the crowd to maintain calm and asked them to not to believe on rumours.

DMK chief Karunanidhi's health normalising with medical support: Hospital

National Award-winning actress Kangana Ranaut on Saturday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he deserves to come in power again in the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections as he is the "rightful leader of the democracy."

Kangana attended the screening of short film 'Chalo Jeete Hain', which is reportedly inspired by the early life of Prime Minister Modi.

"The film has been made beautifully. It shows how Prime Minister Modi being a sensitive child went through such extreme circumstances. But I feel this film is not about him. Rather it is about us - how the society needs to be together to rise. This film is just a small part of his life," Kangana said after the screening.

When asked to analyse the last four years of the Prime Minister Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Kangana said: "He (Prime Minister Modi) is the most deserving candidate. It's not like he has reached this place because of his mother and father.

He is the rightful leader of the democracy. We have voted him as our Prime Minister. This cannot be taken away from him. This is his well deserved place which he has earned after sheer hardwork. So, there shouldn't be any doubt about his credibility as a Prime Minister."

Does she want Prime Minister Modi to be in power again?

Kangana said: "Ofcourse. Why not? Five years are very less to take the nation out of a pit. Our country is in a pit, we need to pull it out."

Co-directed by Aanand L. Rai and Mahaveer Jain, 'Chalo Jeete Hain' invited a lot of praise from ministers after it was screened at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Tuesday.

The trailer reveals the story of a young boy, who keeps on asking his parents and other people as to what it is that they live for after reading a phrase `a winner is one who lives for others'.&nbsp;

Kangana attended the screening of short film 'Chalo Jeete Hain', which is reportedly inspired by the early life of Prime Minister Modi.

National Award-winning actress Kangana Ranaut on Saturday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he deserves to come in power again in the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections as he is the "rightful leader of the democracy." Kangana attended the screening of short film 'Chalo Jeete Hain', which is reportedly inspired by the early life of Prime Minister Modi. "The film has been made beautifully. It shows how Prime Minister Modi being a sensitive child went through such extreme circumstances. But I feel this film is not about him. Rather it is about us - how the society needs to be together to rise. This film is just a small part of his life," Kangana said after the screening. When asked to analyse the last four years of the Prime Minister Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Kangana said: "He (Prime Minister Modi) is the most deserving candidate. It's not like he has reached this place because of his mother and father. He is the rightful leader of the democracy. We have voted him as our Prime Minister. This cannot be taken away from him. This is his well deserved place which he has earned after sheer hardwork. So, there shouldn't be any doubt about his credibility as a Prime Minister." Does she want Prime Minister Modi to be in power again? Kangana said: "Ofcourse. Why not? Five years are very less to take the nation out of a pit. Our country is in a pit, we need to pull it out." Co-directed by Aanand L. Rai and Mahaveer Jain, 'Chalo Jeete Hain' invited a lot of praise from ministers after it was screened at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Tuesday. The trailer reveals the story of a young boy, who keeps on asking his parents and other people as to what it is that they live for after reading a phrase `a winner is one who lives for others'.

PM Modi deserves to come to power in 2019: Kangana Ranaut

An all-out war erupted on Twitter after TRAI chairman RS Sharma on Saturday disclosed his Aadhaar number on the microblogging site and challenged everyone to show how mere knowledge of the unique number could be used to harm him, triggering a deluge of tweets that claimed to disclose his personal details from PAN to mobile number.

The challenge by Sharma evoked an immediate response from the Twitterati, with some users claiming to have dug up his mobile number, photographs, residential address, date of birth and even chat threads using the information, while others warned him about the perils of throwing such a dare on the social media platform.

While much of the information based on the Aadhaar data that was dug out may already be in the public domain, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) official did not verify whether the details pertaining to his PAN were indeed correct.

When contacted by PTI,&nbsp;Sharma declined to make any detailed comment on the matter by saying, "Let the challenge run for some time".

Giving out his full Aadhaar number, the TRAI chairman had tweeted: "Now I give this challenge to you: Show me one concrete example where you can do any harm to me!"

The challenge by Sharma has got over 2,850 retweets, and 3,364 likes, and the numbers continued to climb well into the night.

Sharma himself continued to engage in the verbal duel with the Twitterati till late hours, dismissing much information being revealed as 'public information' and seeking to debunk the theory that "Aadhaar compromises the privacy of the person".

"...Yeh details koi state scret nahin hain&nbsp;(These details are no state secret)...," retorted Sharma at one point, even chiding one of the users for disclosing an address that was old and asking if he (the user) would like to have his latest address.

A French security expert who goes under the pseudonym Elliot Alderson, (@fs0c131y) wrote, "People managed to get your personal address, dob (date of birth) and your alternate phone number. I stop here, I hope you will understand why make your #Aadhaar number public is not a good idea."

While many on Twitter claimed victory over 'leaking' Sharma's personal details post the challenge, the TRAI chief asserted through multiple tweets and replies that the challenge had never been about phone numbers and other information, but for causing harm using knowledge of his Aadhaar number.

"No I did not challenge them for phone number and other info. I challenged them for causing me harm! So far no success. Wish them luck," Sharma wrote on Twitter.

The high drama played out on the microblogging platform just a day after Justice Srikrishna committee came out with its report on data protection where it mooted changes in the Aadhaar Act and proposed new safeguards to protect information of Aadhaar holders.

Sharma, former UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) director general, has been an ardent supporter of the Aadhaar program, vouching for the safety of the system, and dispelling privacy concerns surrounding Aadhaar even during his current tenure as TRAI Chief.&nbsp;

"Data privacy is a big and very important issue in a digital world. I am one of the most vociferous supporter of that. However, the only thing I am saying is that Aadhaar does not violate privacy," Sharma tweeted today.

Meanwhile, Justice Srikrishna panel on data protection has recommended that the Aadhaar Act be amended "significantly" to bolster privacy safeguards, and mooted that only public authorities discharging public functions approved by the UIDAI or entities mandated by law be given the right to request for identity authentication.

The report, submitted yesterday, assumes significance given that public and private sectors are collecting and using personal data on an unprecedented scale and for various purposes, and instances of unregulated and arbitrary use, especially that of personal data, have raised concerns about privacy and autonomy of an individual.

Over the last one year, there have also been reports of personal information being allegedly compromised with increasing use of biometric identifier Aadhaar in an array of services. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has reserved its judgement on a clutch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Aadhaar Act.

While much of the information based on the Aadhaar data that was dug out may already be in the public domain, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) official did not verify whether the details pertaining to his PAN were indeed correct.

An all-out war erupted on Twitter after TRAI chairman RS Sharma on Saturday disclosed his Aadhaar number on the microblogging site and challenged everyone to show how mere knowledge of the unique number could be used to harm him, triggering a deluge of tweets that claimed to disclose his personal details from PAN to mobile number. The challenge by Sharma evoked an immediate response from the Twitterati, with some users claiming to have dug up his mobile number, photographs, residential address, date of birth and even chat threads using the information, while others warned him about the perils of throwing such a dare on the social media platform. While much of the information based on the Aadhaar data that was dug out may already be in the public domain, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) official did not verify whether the details pertaining to his PAN were indeed correct. When contacted by PTI, Sharma declined to make any detailed comment on the matter by saying, "Let the challenge run for some time". Giving out his full Aadhaar number, the TRAI chairman had tweeted: "Now I give this challenge to you: Show me one concrete example where you can do any harm to me!" The challenge by Sharma has got over 2,850 retweets, and 3,364 likes, and the numbers continued to climb well into the night. Sharma himself continued to engage in the verbal duel with the Twitterati till late hours, dismissing much information being revealed as 'public information' and seeking to debunk the theory that "Aadhaar compromises the privacy of the person". "...Yeh details koi state scret nahin hain (These details are no state secret)...," retorted Sharma at one point, even chiding one of the users for disclosing an address that was old and asking if he (the user) would like to have his latest address. A French security expert who goes under the pseudonym Elliot Alderson, (@fs0c131y) wrote, "People managed to get your personal address, dob (date of birth) and your alternate phone number. I stop here, I hope you will understand why make your #Aadhaar number public is not a good idea." While many on Twitter claimed victory over 'leaking' Sharma's personal details post the challenge, the TRAI chief asserted through multiple tweets and replies that the challenge had never been about phone numbers and other information, but for causing harm using knowledge of his Aadhaar number. "No I did not challenge them for phone number and other info. I challenged them for causing me harm! So far no success. Wish them luck," Sharma wrote on Twitter. The high drama played out on the microblogging platform just a day after Justice Srikrishna committee came out with its report on data protection where it mooted changes in the Aadhaar Act and proposed new safeguards to protect information of Aadhaar holders. Sharma, former UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) director general, has been an ardent supporter of the Aadhaar program, vouching for the safety of the system, and dispelling privacy concerns surrounding Aadhaar even during his current tenure as TRAI Chief. "Data privacy is a big and very important issue in a digital world. I am one of the most vociferous supporter of that. However, the only thing I am saying is that Aadhaar does not violate privacy," Sharma tweeted today. Meanwhile, Justice Srikrishna panel on data protection has recommended that the Aadhaar Act be amended "significantly" to bolster privacy safeguards, and mooted that only public authorities discharging public functions approved by the UIDAI or entities mandated by law be given the right to request for identity authentication. The report, submitted yesterday, assumes significance given that public and private sectors are collecting and using personal data on an unprecedented scale and for various purposes, and instances of unregulated and arbitrary use, especially that of personal data, have raised concerns about privacy and autonomy of an individual. Over the last one year, there have also been reports of personal information being allegedly compromised with increasing use of biometric identifier Aadhaar in an array of services. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has reserved its judgement on a clutch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Aadhaar Act.

TRAI chairman RS Sharma posts Aadhaar number as challenge, personal details leaked

60 people have died and 53 others got injured in&nbsp;rain-related incidents&nbsp;in 35 districts of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh.

The causalities were reported after rain wreaked havoc in different parts of the state, since Thursday.

The state has also suffered a loss of cattle.

Eleven deaths have been reported in Saharanpur followed by 10 in Meerut, six in Agra, four in Mainpuri, three each in Muzaffarnagar and Kasganj, two each in Amroha, Bareilly, Baghpat and Bulandshahr and one each in Kanpur Dehat, Mathura, Ghaziabad, Hapur, Rae Bareli, Jalaun, Jaunpur, Pratapgarh, Banda, Firozabad, Amethi, Kanpur and Pilibhit, they said.

The MeT Department here has warned of heavy to very heavy rains/ thundershowers in Sonebhadra, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Ghazipur, Ballia, Maunath Bhanjan, Azamgarh, Deoria districts and its adjoining areas, a spokesperson of the Relief Commissioner’s Office said here.

About 23 cm of rainfall was recorded in Meerut, 13 cm each in Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar, 10 cm in Bijnore, 8 cm in Moradabad, 7 cm in Etawah, 6 cm each in Hardoi and Baheri, 5 cm each in Kannauj, Gautam Budhnagar, Pilibhit and Bareilly, he said.

In the wake of incessant pouring causing havoc in the state, the state government has directed officials to provide relief in the affected areas.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed senior officials of all districts to alert people and asked them to undertake extensive tours in the affected areas and identify dilapidated buildings, and get them vacated, a government spokesperson said here.

The causalities were reported after rain wreaked havoc in different parts of the state, since Thursday.

60 people have died and 53 others got injured in rain-related incidents in 35 districts of Uttar Pradesh. The causalities were reported after rain wreaked havoc in different parts of the state, since Thursday. The state has also suffered a loss of cattle. Eleven deaths have been reported in Saharanpur followed by 10 in Meerut, six in Agra, four in Mainpuri, three each in Muzaffarnagar and Kasganj, two each in Amroha, Bareilly, Baghpat and Bulandshahr and one each in Kanpur Dehat, Mathura, Ghaziabad, Hapur, Rae Bareli, Jalaun, Jaunpur, Pratapgarh, Banda, Firozabad, Amethi, Kanpur and Pilibhit, they said. The MeT Department here has warned of heavy to very heavy rains/ thundershowers in Sonebhadra, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Ghazipur, Ballia, Maunath Bhanjan, Azamgarh, Deoria districts and its adjoining areas, a spokesperson of the Relief Commissioner’s Office said here. About 23 cm of rainfall was recorded in Meerut, 13 cm each in Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar, 10 cm in Bijnore, 8 cm in Moradabad, 7 cm in Etawah, 6 cm each in Hardoi and Baheri, 5 cm each in Kannauj, Gautam Budhnagar, Pilibhit and Bareilly, he said. In the wake of incessant pouring causing havoc in the state, the state government has directed officials to provide relief in the affected areas. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed senior officials of all districts to alert people and asked them to undertake extensive tours in the affected areas and identify dilapidated buildings, and get them vacated, a government spokesperson said here.

60 dead, 53 injured after heavy rains lash Uttar Pradesh

Prime Minister&nbspNarendra Modi&nbspwill share his thought with the nation in the 46th episode of his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme at 11 am today.

It will be streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, All India Radio (AIR) and DD News. Simultaneously, the programme will also be broadcasted on AIR's website - www.allindiaradio.gov.in.

AIR will also broadcast the programme in regional languages immediately after the Hindi broadcast.

In the 45th edition of the radio programme, the Prime Minister had highlighted the significance of Yoga and said that it helps in realising the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumkabam.

He had also recalled Guru Nanak and said his teachings endeavoured to eradicate caste-based discrimination prevalent in the society.

In the 45th edition of the radio programme, the Prime Minister had highlighted the significance of Yoga and said that it helps in realising the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumkabam.

Prime Minister&nbspNarendra Modi&nbspwill share his thought with the nation in the 46th episode of his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme at 11 am today. It will be streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, All India Radio (AIR) and DD News. Simultaneously, the programme will also be broadcasted on AIR's website - www.allindiaradio.gov.in. AIR will also broadcast the programme in regional languages immediately after the Hindi broadcast. In the 45th edition of the radio programme, the Prime Minister had highlighted the significance of Yoga and said that it helps in realising the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumkabam. He had also recalled Guru Nanak and said his teachings endeavoured to eradicate caste-based discrimination prevalent in the society.

PM Modi to address nation on 'Mann Ki Baat' today

The daughter of a Telugu film actress&nbsp;Annapurna&nbsp;allegedly committed suicide on Saturday in Hyderabad.

Police confirmed that the incident took place in the morning, wherein the daughter, who has been identified as Keerthi, allegedly committed suicide at their residence.

"Keerthi who is around 35 years old has committed suicide by hanging herself to death at her residence," said KS Rao, ACP, Banjara hills Division.

She was married for over three years and had a child.

During the investigation, police had found out that she allegedly committed suicide due to health issues.

Her body was shifted to Osmania General Hospital for post-mortem.

A case has been registered under section 174 of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (Police to enquire and report on suicide, etc.) at Banjarahills police station in the city. Further investigation is on.

"Keerthi who is around 35 years old has committed suicide by hanging herself to death at her residence," said KS Rao, ACP, Banjara hills Division.

The daughter of a Telugu film actress Annapurna allegedly committed suicide on Saturday in Hyderabad. Police confirmed that the incident took place in the morning, wherein the daughter, who has been identified as Keerthi, allegedly committed suicide at their residence. "Keerthi who is around 35 years old has committed suicide by hanging herself to death at her residence," said KS Rao, ACP, Banjara hills Division. She was married for over three years and had a child. During the investigation, police had found out that she allegedly committed suicide due to health issues. Her body was shifted to Osmania General Hospital for post-mortem. A case has been registered under section 174 of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (Police to enquire and report on suicide, etc.) at Banjarahills police station in the city. Further investigation is on.

Telugu actress' daughter found hanging at her Hyderabad home

The Indian government provides "unprecedented" religious accommodations to its religious minority population, says a report by a US-based Hindu advocacy group, according to which India is a force for stability in the region.

As such, it is critical that the US continues to strengthen relations with India, in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said in its latest policy brief titled 'India: Democracy in Diversity'.

Released at the historic rotunda of the US Capitol this week, the policy document highlights India's centuries-old status as a multi-religious, multi-ethnic region, and later nation-state, that is both the birthplace of four of the world's religions, as well as a refuge for faith communities fleeing persecution.

The report also details the ways in which the Indian government "provides unprecedented religious accommodations to its religious minority population", with more than USD 600 million allotted in 2016-2017 in benefit programs, the allowance for faith-based law for both Muslims and Christians, and how India has had significant minority representation at all levels of government, military, and judiciary.

Highlighting the infrequent nature of the interreligious conflict in the country, the report explores the varied root causes from pecuniary to political, and historical to religious of the same.

"Though there have not been major riots or attacks targeting religious minorities in India in recent years, there have been reports of individual incidents involving attacks by Hindus on Christians and Muslims," the report acknowledges.

HAF said that it unequivocally condemns these attacks and believes that any such violence is unacceptable and contravenes Hindu teachings and India's pluralistic ethos.

India is a force for stability in the region, it said recommending the US to continue to "strengthen relations with India in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism that is impacting the lives of innocent civilians, causing domestic unrest, and forcing large-scale migrations of Hindu refugees (and other religious minorities) from Pakistan and Bangladesh into India".

"This report is both timely and necessary, as it's release coincided with the US State Department's inaugural Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom," said Samir Kalra, managing director of HAF.

"Overall, it seeks to show the broader story of religious freedom and pluralism in India, which is often not reflected in the media or US policy circles," Kalra said.

"Though there have not been major riots or attacks targeting religious minorities in India in recent years, there have been reports of individual incidents involving attacks by Hindus on Christians and Muslims," the report acknowledges.

The Indian government provides "unprecedented" religious accommodations to its religious minority population, says a report by a US-based Hindu advocacy group, according to which India is a force for stability in the region. As such, it is critical that the US continues to strengthen relations with India, in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said in its latest policy brief titled 'India: Democracy in Diversity'. Released at the historic rotunda of the US Capitol this week, the policy document highlights India's centuries-old status as a multi-religious, multi-ethnic region, and later nation-state, that is both the birthplace of four of the world's religions, as well as a refuge for faith communities fleeing persecution. The report also details the ways in which the Indian government "provides unprecedented religious accommodations to its religious minority population", with more than USD 600 million allotted in 2016-2017 in benefit programs, the allowance for faith-based law for both Muslims and Christians, and how India has had significant minority representation at all levels of government, military, and judiciary. Highlighting the infrequent nature of the interreligious conflict in the country, the report explores the varied root causes from pecuniary to political, and historical to religious of the same. "Though there have not been major riots or attacks targeting religious minorities in India in recent years, there have been reports of individual incidents involving attacks by Hindus on Christians and Muslims," the report acknowledges. HAF said that it unequivocally condemns these attacks and believes that any such violence is unacceptable and contravenes Hindu teachings and India's pluralistic ethos. India is a force for stability in the region, it said recommending the US to continue to "strengthen relations with India in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism that is impacting the lives of innocent civilians, causing domestic unrest, and forcing large-scale migrations of Hindu refugees (and other religious minorities) from Pakistan and Bangladesh into India". "This report is both timely and necessary, as it's release coincided with the US State Department's inaugural Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom," said Samir Kalra, managing director of HAF. "Overall, it seeks to show the broader story of religious freedom and pluralism in India, which is often not reflected in the media or US policy circles," Kalra said.

India provides 'unprecedented' accommodation to its religious minority population: Report

Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu met DMK supremo M Karunanidhi at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital Sunday.&nbsp;

Karunanidh was admitted to hospital Saturday after his blood pressure dropped.&nbsp;

Karunanidhi had before that been receiving hopital-like treatment at home for a urinary tract infection.&nbsp;

Naidu was accompanied by Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan, and state fisheries minister D Jayakumar. Naidu also met Karunanidhi's son MK Stalin, other family members, and the doctors treating Karunanidhi to enquire about the treatment being given to the DMK chief.&nbsp;

News reports quoted Naidu as saying the doctors had told him Karunanidhi's condition is now stable.&nbsp;

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Karunanidhi is 94 years old.&nbsp;

Karunanidh was admitted to hospital Saturday after his blood pressure dropped. Karunanidhi had before that been receiving hopital-level treatment at home for a urinary tract infection.

Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu met DMK supremo M Karunanidhi at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital Sunday. Karunanidh was admitted to hospital Saturday after his blood pressure dropped. Karunanidhi had before that been receiving hopital-like treatment at home for a urinary tract infection. Naidu was accompanied by Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan, and state fisheries minister D Jayakumar. Naidu also met Karunanidhi's son MK Stalin, other family members, and the doctors treating Karunanidhi to enquire about the treatment being given to the DMK chief. News reports quoted Naidu as saying the doctors had told him Karunanidhi's condition is now stable. Chennai: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu meets DMK Chief M Karunanidhi at Kauvery hospital where the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister was admitted yesterday following a drop in blood pressure. pic.twitter.com/KUMxrcCga9 — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × Chennai: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu meets DMK leader MK Stalin at Kauvery Hospital, where DMK Chief M Karunanidhi was admitted yesterday following drop in blood pressure. pic.twitter.com/yafReCKKgj — ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018 × Karunanidhi is 94 years old.

Venkaiah Naidu visits Karunanidhi in hospital

The number of minor girls allegedly sexually abused at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur has increased to 34, with fresh medical reports confirming rape of five more girls, a senior police officer said today.

On July 24, Director General of Police K S Dwivedi had said 29 inmates of the state-funded home were raped.

Muzaffarpur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harpreet Kaur told PTI over phone today that fresh medical reports of 13 girl inmates have confirmed that five of them were sexually abused.

Two of the 44 shelter home inmates were not presented before the medical board as one of them, a four-year-old mentally challenged girl, was at Madhubani, while the other, who had been shifted to Mokama in Patna, was unwell, the SSP said.

The issue of the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home, run by an NGO, was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's Social Welfare Department in April.

An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 people, including Brajesh Thakur, the owner of the NGO which ran the government-funded shelter home for destitute girls.

On July 26, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter.

The opposition - RJD, Congress and CPI(ML) - had sought a probe into the case by the CBI with the high court monitoring it.

The CBI has taken over the investigation, an official said today.

The SSP said a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team, which had already visited the place earlier, was called again to visit the shelter home yesterday.

A magistrate, videographers and a team of doctors accompanied the FSL team in light of allegations levelled by the inmates that they were administered drugs at the shelter home, Kaur said.

The doctors have seized some drugs from the room where the girls had their weekly check ups.

The doctors' team is likely to submit its report in this regard tomorrow, she said, adding that Muzaffarpur Zone Inspector General Sunil Kumar and Muzaffarpur Range Deputy Inspector General Anil Kumar Singh also visited the place yesterday.

Police have already submitted a charge sheet against 10 accused persons on July 26 before a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Court, the SSP said.

A proclamation notice issued by the special court has been pasted at the house of another accused, Dilip Kumar Verma, who has been evading arrest.

Ten out of 11 accused people have been arrested till now.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has made it clear that the state government, during the next hearing, would itself request the high court to monitor the CBI inquiry into the matter.&nbsp;

CBI takes over probe

The CBI has taken over investigation into the alleged abuse of minor girls at a shelter home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, an official said today.

The case relates to mental, physical and sexual exploitation of the girls residing at Balika Grih, Muzaffarpur.&nbsp;

The CBI has booked officers and employees of the shelter home.

"It is alleged that officials/employees of girl's children home run by Seva Sankalp Evam Vikash Samiti used to mentality, physically and sexually exploit the children residing there," a CBI spokesperson said.

The matter had come to light earlier this year when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR based on a social audit of the shelter home conducted by a Mumbai-based institute.

The audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.&nbsp;

Women staff members of the shelter home and Brajesh Thakur, who ran the NGO, were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.&nbsp;

Director General of Police KS Dwivedi had said on July 24 that 29 inmates of the state-funded home were raped. An official meanwhile said Sunday that the CBI has taken over the case.

The number of minor girls allegedly sexually abused at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur has increased to 34, with fresh medical reports confirming rape of five more girls, a senior police officer said today. On July 24, Director General of Police K S Dwivedi had said 29 inmates of the state-funded home were raped. Muzaffarpur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harpreet Kaur told PTI over phone today that fresh medical reports of 13 girl inmates have confirmed that five of them were sexually abused. Two of the 44 shelter home inmates were not presented before the medical board as one of them, a four-year-old mentally challenged girl, was at Madhubani, while the other, who had been shifted to Mokama in Patna, was unwell, the SSP said. The issue of the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home, run by an NGO, was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's Social Welfare Department in April. An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 people, including Brajesh Thakur, the owner of the NGO which ran the government-funded shelter home for destitute girls. On July 26, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter. The opposition - RJD, Congress and CPI(ML) - had sought a probe into the case by the CBI with the high court monitoring it. The CBI has taken over the investigation, an official said today. The SSP said a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team, which had already visited the place earlier, was called again to visit the shelter home yesterday. A magistrate, videographers and a team of doctors accompanied the FSL team in light of allegations levelled by the inmates that they were administered drugs at the shelter home, Kaur said. The doctors have seized some drugs from the room where the girls had their weekly check ups. The doctors' team is likely to submit its report in this regard tomorrow, she said, adding that Muzaffarpur Zone Inspector General Sunil Kumar and Muzaffarpur Range Deputy Inspector General Anil Kumar Singh also visited the place yesterday. Police have already submitted a charge sheet against 10 accused persons on July 26 before a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Court, the SSP said. A proclamation notice issued by the special court has been pasted at the house of another accused, Dilip Kumar Verma, who has been evading arrest. Ten out of 11 accused people have been arrested till now. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has made it clear that the state government, during the next hearing, would itself request the high court to monitor the CBI inquiry into the matter. CBI takes over probe The CBI has taken over investigation into the alleged abuse of minor girls at a shelter home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, an official said today. The case relates to mental, physical and sexual exploitation of the girls residing at Balika Grih, Muzaffarpur. The CBI has booked officers and employees of the shelter home. "It is alleged that officials/employees of girl's children home run by Seva Sankalp Evam Vikash Samiti used to mentality, physically and sexually exploit the children residing there," a CBI spokesperson said. The matter had come to light earlier this year when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR based on a social audit of the shelter home conducted by a Mumbai-based institute. The audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints. The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani. Women staff members of the shelter home and Brajesh Thakur, who ran the NGO, were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

Bihar shelter home case: Medical reports confirm rape of 5 more girls, total now 34

Thirty-six years after losing his parents, sister and a four-year-old daughter in a sectarian massacre, Abdul Suban say he is still trying to prove he's a citizen of the country.

Suban is one of hundreds of thousands of Bengali-speaking Muslims categorised as "doubtful voters", who will not find their names in a National Register of Citizens (NRC) the northeastern border state of Assam will release on Monday.

"If the government has decided to brand us foreigners what can we do?" said the 60-year-old. "NRC is trying to finish us off. Our people have died here, but we will not leave this place."

Suban was seated with his wife at their house a few hundred metres from a vast paddy field where, in 1983, scores of people were chased down and killed by machete-armed mobs intent on hounding out Muslim immigrants. He survived by running as hard as he could and hiding behind a bush for days.

Work on the citizens' register has accelerated under the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

With an eye on the 2019 national election, the BJP's Hindu-first campaign has become more strident, critics say, playing to its core base with divisive programmes such as the citizenship test in Assam, already a tinderbox of ethnic and religious tensions.

Elsewhere in the country's northern heartland, lynchings of Muslim cattle traders have risen under Modi in the country where many Hindus consider cows sacred, further deepening social divides.

The BJP has denied the lynchings have any connection with it being in power. Modi has at least twice publicly spoken out against cow vigilantes.

Mass grave

Several other survivors of the "Nellie Massacre", which killed around 2,000 people from more than a dozen villages, gave accounts of burying bodies in a mass grave now partly under water.

They said they hoped the release of the NCR list on Monday would not spark further violence. Security has been tightened across Assam.

The citizenship test is the culmination of years of often violent agitations by Assamese demanding the removal of outsiders they accuse of taking jobs and cornering resources in the state of 33 million, known for its tea estates and oil fields.

"The NRC is extremely important to make the Assamese people feel protected," said Santanu Bharali, the legal adviser to the BJP chief minister of Assam.

"It's a moral victory. The ethnic Assamese always maintained the presence of foreigners and this will prove that."

But the opposition Congress party and rights activists say the government is misusing the register to target even legal Indian Muslim citizens who have traditionally voted for non-BJP parties. The BJP and NRC authorities have repeatedly denied the allegations.

"Communal Politics"

To be recognised as Indian citizens, all residents of Assam had to produce documents proving that they or their families lived in the country before March 24, 1971.

Suban said both he and his father were born in Assam, and showed Reuters a soiled yellow document that showed his father's name in the list of voters in Assam for 1965, before the cut-off date. The local border police declined to discuss individual cases, but said not all documents furnished by suspected illegal immigrants were valid.

Hundreds of thousands of people fled to India from Bangladesh during its New Delhi-backed war of independence from Pakistan in the early 1970s. Most of them settled in Assam, which has a near-270 km (165-mile) border with Bangladesh.

The migrants included many Hindus, but PM Modi has issued orders stating that no Hindu or members of other minorities from Pakistan or Bangladesh would be considered an illegal immigrant even if they entered the country without valid documents before 2014.

"BJP's only aim is to do communal politics, including through the NRC," Congress lawmaker Ripun Bora said.

The BJP said the NRC was monitored by the country's top court and there was no question of discriminating on the basis of religion.

Following an outcry from rights groups over possible harassment of Muslims in Assam, Interior Minister Rajnath Singh said that the NRC exercise was being carried out in an impartial and transparent manner.

Singh also reiterated that people finding their names missing from the list could raise objections and appeals, and said that they would not be thrown into detention centres.

Rivals say that as Modi's government faces disillusionment for failing to deliver on jobs and prosperity, it will step up religious mobilisation across the country.

Fear in the countryside

The first draft of the NRC, released on December&nbsp31, confirmed the citizenship of 19 million people, leading to jubilation for some and heartbreak among others.

The NRC office, however, told the Supreme Court this month that 150,000 people from the first list, a third of them married women, would be dropped from the next one, mainly because they provided false information or gave inadmissible documents.

Political activists in Assam say most of those are Bengali-speaking Muslims. NRC chief Prateek Hajela, whose office has processed 66 million documents and spent nearly $180 million in the whole NRC process, declined comment on the religion of people who would be removed from the register.

"We are doing an exercise that is unprecedented and if there are course corrections which are required to be done, we will need to do that," said Hajela, who is guarded round-the-clock by a team of police.

Hajela said that most of Assam's 126,000 so-called doubtful voters, and an estimated 150,000 of their descendants, would be excluded from the NRC in accordance with a court order.

One of them is Nellie farmer Suban's son Nabi Hussain, 28, who said he has voted in two Indian elections but now fears arrests.

"We are scared," said Hussain, his wife looking on from their mud-coated bamboo house, their nine-month-old daughter in her arms. "Terrible things happened to our family once, we don't want a repeat."

The citizenship test is the culmination of years of often violent agitations by Assamese demanding the removal of outsiders they accuse of taking jobs and cornering resources in the state of 33 million, known for its tea estates and oil fields

Thirty-six years after losing his parents, sister and a four-year-old daughter in a sectarian massacre, Abdul Suban say he is still trying to prove he's a citizen of the country. Suban is one of hundreds of thousands of Bengali-speaking Muslims categorised as "doubtful voters", who will not find their names in a National Register of Citizens (NRC) the northeastern border state of Assam will release on Monday. "If the government has decided to brand us foreigners what can we do?" said the 60-year-old. "NRC is trying to finish us off. Our people have died here, but we will not leave this place." Suban was seated with his wife at their house a few hundred metres from a vast paddy field where, in 1983, scores of people were chased down and killed by machete-armed mobs intent on hounding out Muslim immigrants. He survived by running as hard as he could and hiding behind a bush for days. Work on the citizens' register has accelerated under the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With an eye on the 2019 national election, the BJP's Hindu-first campaign has become more strident, critics say, playing to its core base with divisive programmes such as the citizenship test in Assam, already a tinderbox of ethnic and religious tensions. Elsewhere in the country's northern heartland, lynchings of Muslim cattle traders have risen under Modi in the country where many Hindus consider cows sacred, further deepening social divides. The BJP has denied the lynchings have any connection with it being in power. Modi has at least twice publicly spoken out against cow vigilantes. Mass grave Several other survivors of the "Nellie Massacre", which killed around 2,000 people from more than a dozen villages, gave accounts of burying bodies in a mass grave now partly under water. They said they hoped the release of the NCR list on Monday would not spark further violence. Security has been tightened across Assam. The citizenship test is the culmination of years of often violent agitations by Assamese demanding the removal of outsiders they accuse of taking jobs and cornering resources in the state of 33 million, known for its tea estates and oil fields. "The NRC is extremely important to make the Assamese people feel protected," said Santanu Bharali, the legal adviser to the BJP chief minister of Assam. "It's a moral victory. The ethnic Assamese always maintained the presence of foreigners and this will prove that." But the opposition Congress party and rights activists say the government is misusing the register to target even legal Indian Muslim citizens who have traditionally voted for non-BJP parties. The BJP and NRC authorities have repeatedly denied the allegations. "Communal Politics" To be recognised as Indian citizens, all residents of Assam had to produce documents proving that they or their families lived in the country before March 24, 1971. Suban said both he and his father were born in Assam, and showed Reuters a soiled yellow document that showed his father's name in the list of voters in Assam for 1965, before the cut-off date. The local border police declined to discuss individual cases, but said not all documents furnished by suspected illegal immigrants were valid. Hundreds of thousands of people fled to India from Bangladesh during its New Delhi-backed war of independence from Pakistan in the early 1970s. Most of them settled in Assam, which has a near-270 km (165-mile) border with Bangladesh. The migrants included many Hindus, but PM Modi has issued orders stating that no Hindu or members of other minorities from Pakistan or Bangladesh would be considered an illegal immigrant even if they entered the country without valid documents before 2014. "BJP's only aim is to do communal politics, including through the NRC," Congress lawmaker Ripun Bora said. The BJP said the NRC was monitored by the country's top court and there was no question of discriminating on the basis of religion. Following an outcry from rights groups over possible harassment of Muslims in Assam, Interior Minister Rajnath Singh said that the NRC exercise was being carried out in an impartial and transparent manner. Singh also reiterated that people finding their names missing from the list could raise objections and appeals, and said that they would not be thrown into detention centres. Rivals say that as Modi's government faces disillusionment for failing to deliver on jobs and prosperity, it will step up religious mobilisation across the country. Fear in the countryside The first draft of the NRC, released on December&nbsp31, confirmed the citizenship of 19 million people, leading to jubilation for some and heartbreak among others. The NRC office, however, told the Supreme Court this month that 150,000 people from the first list, a third of them married women, would be dropped from the next one, mainly because they provided false information or gave inadmissible documents. Political activists in Assam say most of those are Bengali-speaking Muslims. NRC chief Prateek Hajela, whose office has processed 66 million documents and spent nearly $180 million in the whole NRC process, declined comment on the religion of people who would be removed from the register. "We are doing an exercise that is unprecedented and if there are course corrections which are required to be done, we will need to do that," said Hajela, who is guarded round-the-clock by a team of police. Hajela said that most of Assam's 126,000 so-called doubtful voters, and an estimated 150,000 of their descendants, would be excluded from the NRC in accordance with a court order. One of them is Nellie farmer Suban's son Nabi Hussain, 28, who said he has voted in two Indian elections but now fears arrests. "We are scared," said Hussain, his wife looking on from their mud-coated bamboo house, their nine-month-old daughter in her arms. "Terrible things happened to our family once, we don't want a repeat."

NRC Assam: Muslim survivors of Nellie massacre shaken by citizenship test

The Indian government provides "unprecedented" religious accommodations to its religious minority population, says a report by a US-based Hindu advocacy group, according to which India is a force for stability in the region.

As such, it is critical that the US continues to strengthen relations with India, in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said in its latest policy brief titled 'India: Democracy in Diversity'.

Released at the historic rotunda of the US Capitol this week, the policy document highlights India's centuries-old status as a multi-religious, multi-ethnic region, and later nation-state, that is both the birthplace of four of the world's religions, as well as a refuge for faith communities fleeing persecution.

The report also details the ways in which the Indian government "provides unprecedented religious accommodations to its religious minority population", with more than US $600 million allotted in 2016-2017 in benefit programs, the allowance for faith-based law for both Muslims and Christians, and how India has had significant minority representation at all levels of government, military, and judiciary.

Highlighting the infrequent nature of interreligious conflict in the country, the report explores the varied root causes&nbspfrom pecuniary to political, and historical to religious&nbspof the same.

"Though there have not been major riots or attacks targeting religious minorities in India in recent years, there have been reports of individual incidents involving attacks by Hindus on Christians and Muslims," the report acknowledges.

HAF said that it unequivocally condemns these attacks and believes that any such violence is unacceptable and contravenes Hindu teachings and India's pluralistic ethos.

India is a force for stability in the region, it said recommending the US continue to "strengthen relations with India in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism that is impacting the lives of innocent civilians, causing domestic unrest, and forcing large scale migrations of Hindu refugees (and other religious minorities) from Pakistan and Bangladesh into India".

"This report is both timely and necessary, as it's release coincided with the US State Department's inaugural Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom," said Samir Kalra, managing director of HAF.

"Overall, it seeks to show the broader story of religious freedom and pluralism in India, which is often not reflected in the media or US policy circles," Kalra said.

The report also details the ways in which the Indian government 'provides unprecedented religious accommodations to its religious minority population', with more than US $600 million allotted in 2016-2017 in benefit programs

The Indian government provides "unprecedented" religious accommodations to its religious minority population, says a report by a US-based Hindu advocacy group, according to which India is a force for stability in the region. As such, it is critical that the US continues to strengthen relations with India, in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said in its latest policy brief titled 'India: Democracy in Diversity'. Released at the historic rotunda of the US Capitol this week, the policy document highlights India's centuries-old status as a multi-religious, multi-ethnic region, and later nation-state, that is both the birthplace of four of the world's religions, as well as a refuge for faith communities fleeing persecution. The report also details the ways in which the Indian government "provides unprecedented religious accommodations to its religious minority population", with more than US $600 million allotted in 2016-2017 in benefit programs, the allowance for faith-based law for both Muslims and Christians, and how India has had significant minority representation at all levels of government, military, and judiciary. Highlighting the infrequent nature of interreligious conflict in the country, the report explores the varied root causes&nbspfrom pecuniary to political, and historical to religious&nbspof the same. "Though there have not been major riots or attacks targeting religious minorities in India in recent years, there have been reports of individual incidents involving attacks by Hindus on Christians and Muslims," the report acknowledges. HAF said that it unequivocally condemns these attacks and believes that any such violence is unacceptable and contravenes Hindu teachings and India's pluralistic ethos. India is a force for stability in the region, it said recommending the US continue to "strengthen relations with India in order to bring greater stability to the region and prevent the growth of radical Islamist and Communist/Maoist terrorism that is impacting the lives of innocent civilians, causing domestic unrest, and forcing large scale migrations of Hindu refugees (and other religious minorities) from Pakistan and Bangladesh into India". "This report is both timely and necessary, as it's release coincided with the US State Department's inaugural Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom," said Samir Kalra, managing director of HAF. "Overall, it seeks to show the broader story of religious freedom and pluralism in India, which is often not reflected in the media or US policy circles," Kalra said.

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Heavy rains continue to batter North India; 80 dead in UP, Patna shuts schools

People are being made refugees in their own country: Mamata Banerjee slams centre on NRC move

No lynching in Tripura in 25 years of Left govt: Ex Tripura CM Manik Sarkar

PM Modi hails achievements of athletes, students in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Raigad bus accident: 30 bodies recovered till now from accident site

Ease of doing business: UP among top 5 states, says Yogi Adityanath

Prison department to set up rehab centres for beggars across Telangana

Dissolve J&K assembly, prepare ground for fresh elections: Farooq Abdullah

Indian-American senatorial candidate attacked by 'racist' Elizabeth Warren supporter

Assam to release second & final draft of register of citizens on Monday

Assam's National Register of Citizens: An explainer

Conviction under SC/ST Act just 27 per cent in 2014-16

DMK chief Karunanidhi's health normalising with medical support: Hospital

PM Modi deserves to come to power in 2019: Kangana Ranaut

TRAI chairman RS Sharma posts Aadhaar number as challenge, personal details leaked

60 dead, 53 injured after heavy rains lash Uttar Pradesh

PM Modi to address nation on 'Mann Ki Baat' today

Telugu actress' daughter found hanging at her Hyderabad home

India provides 'unprecedented' accommodation to its religious minority population: Report

Venkaiah Naidu visits Karunanidhi in hospital

Bihar shelter home case: Medical reports confirm rape of 5 more girls, total now 34

NRC Assam: Muslim survivors of Nellie massacre shaken by citizenship test

India provides 'unprecedented' accommodation to its religious minority population: Report