US vs China over South China Sea: Washington backs Philippines, Beijing hits back

Bigg Boss 20: Isha Rikhi evicted after three weeks in Salman Khan’s show

Musk plans to more than double xAI's chips to over 1.2 million Nvidia GPUs by year-end

After JU, clash erupts at SRFTI: BJP’s ‘Dimagi Naxal’ jibe sparks political firestorm after students protest RSS-linked event

‘Anti-social elements spreading false rumours’: LPU issues statement amid massive unrest over alleged rape

LPU students go on rampage, vandalise campus amid widespread protest: What's happening

Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hails global crackdown on Iranian banks and airlines

An OpenAI agent escaped its locked test cage again, by hiding questions in DNS lookups

'Our video was trimmed': LPU girls who featured in rape-denial video make U-turn

3 males killed, four others injured in shooting after fight at strip club in Detroit

'Victory for low-budget consumers': Raghav Chadha hails 30-day telecom recharge rules

Claude rebuilt the 1989 game 'Prince of Persia' by reusing the original's own code

Beyond metros: How Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities could drive India’s next AI wave

Tesla builds first Cybertruck with its own refined lithium: Elon Musk's $1 billion Texas bet pays off

IndiGo flight suffers tail strike in Bengaluru while landing; DGCA to probe incident

The US and China set up an AI 'red telephone', but skipped the rulebook

‘Terror suspects arrested near UK air base were looking to do big damage’: Trump

Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’

IND vs WI 1st ODI: Kohli breaks Sachin's most runs in one country record with unbeaten 139 as India thump West Indies by 8 wickets

Researchers rebuilt exactly how 700 AI agents hacked Hugging Face: a 900-link chain trick

‘Olympic inclusion is our major target’: WPA President Ishaun Singh on pool’s global ambitions

Nations League: Spain sink England at Wembley; Modric shines for Croatia

Why has Iran released no proof of life of Mojtaba Khamenei? Araghchi reveals...

'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch

South Korea demands apology from Ukraine over North Korean prisoners' transfer

Beyond BrahMos: India targets Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports with unmatched price edge

Sri Lankan Tamil migrant worker gets death sentence in Saudi Arabia, help sought from India

Muslim marriage cannot shield sex with minor wife from prosecution under POCSO: Delhi HC

'Can't help but draw painful parallels to Nirbhaya case': SC on latest incidents of rape cases in Delhi-NCR

99.9% more powerful - Scientists find boy who can recall memories from just 3 months of age

'FIRST LOOK from inside Noah’s Ark': Researchers share video from inside mysterious mound in Turkey

UNSC reform momentum grows: Russia, Portugal, Mauritius push for India's permanent seat bid

8 US marines injured in Iranian missile attack on vessel in Strait of Hormuz: Report

New OTT releases this week (September 28-October 4, 2026): Dupahiya 2, Pooja Meri Jaan, Ohh My Dog- 5 titles coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Afghanistan says 28 fighters killed in clash near Pakistan border, Islamabad denies

Ceuta migrant crisis: Protesters take to streets as Spain grapples with migrant challenge

LPU suspend classes, postpones exams as violence escalates over rape claims: What's happening

New York City wants a 'kill switch' on every AI, and will pay whistleblowers who report violations

An aeronautical engineer from Mumbai and a Delhi-based lawyer have come together to set up a group, which will monitor news reports and social media posts that are "biased and fake" and take necessary action.

The organisation, "India Against Bias Media" (IABM), has been formed by Vipul Saxena, an aeronautical engineer, and Vibhor Anand, a Supreme Court lawyer.

The group has been filing cases against disseminators of reports, which are aimed at, "destroying religious and social fabric of the country", Saxena said.

However, journalists expressed concern over the setting of the group, saying it may harass and intimidate scribes and social media users.

The duo had been working on the project for the last two years, but made a soft-launch of the forum on Twitter over a week ago.

Since then, they have filed almost two dozen cases, mainly of sedition, across the country against several people.

"We are getting full support from people of clean and responsible media and not going to deter from wrongdoers. Either self regulate or we regulate them legally. We are teams of professionals from all domains backed by strong teams of lawyers across," Saxena tweeted yesterday.

The 54-year-old dismissed suggestions that his organisation was like a pressure group or a media watchdog and also denied any political affiliation.

"Our team of legal experts will deal with those who indulge in circulation of biased, fake, manipulated, morphed or doctored contents which could create social or religious disharmony, trigger riots or show disrespect to people on top constitutional posts like prime minister and president.

"We will never stage dharna or protest march, but will deal with such people legally as we have full faith in the Constitution," Saxena told PTI.

He said in the last four to five days, IABM has filed sedition cases against actor Swara Bhasker in several police stations across the country and also a Youtuber, Dhruv Rathi.

Bhasker had tweeted a picture of a man tied to a jeep as a "human shield" by an Army officer in Kashmir last year to deter stone-pelters.

Besides, cases were lodged against a few journalists for their tweets in the wake of an attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid in New Delhi, Saxena said.

"Most of the cases have been filed under IPC sections like 120(B) (criminal conspiracy), 153 (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot) and 153(A) (promoting enmity between different groups)," he said. If individuals booked under these charges express regret or say sorry for their comments or tweets, IABM will withdraw the cases against them, Saxena said.

"We are not trying to silence dissent or suppress the freedom of speech and expression. We are trying to make people responsible for what they speak or write," the aeronautical engineer said.

"We can not remain a mute spectator and see the country's social harmony being vitiated," he asserted.

Asked who will decide whether a news report is "biased or fake", Saxena said, "We have teams of professionals who know which news contains truth and which one is motivated."

He said the Press Council of India (PCI) has proved ineffective in its job as a media regulator.

"When the PCI starts doing its true job, we will pack our bags," Saxena added.

City-based journalist Jatin Desai was critical of the new group, saying its existence will prove detrimental to democratic values of the country.

"Forming different opinions and openly expressing them are the heart and soul of a democratic country. These people are trying to harass journalists and people (social media users) by selectively filing cases against them.

"Dissent can never be suppressed. Otherwise, we will have a handicapped democracy," said Desai, a member of the Mumbai Press Club.&nbsp

The organisation, 'India Against Bias Media' (IABM), has been formed by Vipul Saxena, an aeronautical engineer, and Vibhor Anand, a Supreme Court lawyer.

An aeronautical engineer from Mumbai and a Delhi-based lawyer have come together to set up a group, which will monitor news reports and social media posts that are "biased and fake" and take necessary action. The organisation, "India Against Bias Media" (IABM), has been formed by Vipul Saxena, an aeronautical engineer, and Vibhor Anand, a Supreme Court lawyer. The group has been filing cases against disseminators of reports, which are aimed at, "destroying religious and social fabric of the country", Saxena said. However, journalists expressed concern over the setting of the group, saying it may harass and intimidate scribes and social media users. The duo had been working on the project for the last two years, but made a soft-launch of the forum on Twitter over a week ago. Since then, they have filed almost two dozen cases, mainly of sedition, across the country against several people. "We are getting full support from people of clean and responsible media and not going to deter from wrongdoers. Either self regulate or we regulate them legally. We are teams of professionals from all domains backed by strong teams of lawyers across," Saxena tweeted yesterday. The 54-year-old dismissed suggestions that his organisation was like a pressure group or a media watchdog and also denied any political affiliation. "Our team of legal experts will deal with those who indulge in circulation of biased, fake, manipulated, morphed or doctored contents which could create social or religious disharmony, trigger riots or show disrespect to people on top constitutional posts like prime minister and president. "We will never stage dharna or protest march, but will deal with such people legally as we have full faith in the Constitution," Saxena told PTI. He said in the last four to five days, IABM has filed sedition cases against actor Swara Bhasker in several police stations across the country and also a Youtuber, Dhruv Rathi. Bhasker had tweeted a picture of a man tied to a jeep as a "human shield" by an Army officer in Kashmir last year to deter stone-pelters. Besides, cases were lodged against a few journalists for their tweets in the wake of an attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid in New Delhi, Saxena said. "Most of the cases have been filed under IPC sections like 120(B) (criminal conspiracy), 153 (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot) and 153(A) (promoting enmity between different groups)," he said. If individuals booked under these charges express regret or say sorry for their comments or tweets, IABM will withdraw the cases against them, Saxena said. "We are not trying to silence dissent or suppress the freedom of speech and expression. We are trying to make people responsible for what they speak or write," the aeronautical engineer said. "We can not remain a mute spectator and see the country's social harmony being vitiated," he asserted. Asked who will decide whether a news report is "biased or fake", Saxena said, "We have teams of professionals who know which news contains truth and which one is motivated." He said the Press Council of India (PCI) has proved ineffective in its job as a media regulator. "When the PCI starts doing its true job, we will pack our bags," Saxena added. City-based journalist Jatin Desai was critical of the new group, saying its existence will prove detrimental to democratic values of the country. "Forming different opinions and openly expressing them are the heart and soul of a democratic country. These people are trying to harass journalists and people (social media users) by selectively filing cases against them. "Dissent can never be suppressed. Otherwise, we will have a handicapped democracy," said Desai, a member of the Mumbai Press Club.

Engineer, lawyer set up group to monitor 'biased, fake' news

The government must slap penalty on anyone using Aadhaar data for purposes other than public services, news agency PTI reported whistle-blower Edward Snowden as saying.&nbsp;

Addressing an event via video-conference, he said that if Indian government was serious about implementing Aadhaar for public good, it must ensure "criminal penalty" against anyone misusing the data.

Mass surveillance system would look like Aadhaar as it creates systemisation of society, he told the fifth edition of 'Talk Journalism' event organised here last weekend.

Systemisation of society is something that is not stated in the scheme of things for the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), he added.

Replying to a question the surveillance issue, he said that no government will say that it has decided that "you don't have rights". They would rather say that they are bringing in a new programme that will safeguard people's rights and protect them.

Snowden said that it's a myth that youngsters are not concerned about privacy. Youngsters are very much concerned about their privacy, he added.

He made a point stating that citizens don't need to explain why they need privacy it's the government that needs to explain why people don't need rights.

The former USA secret agency CIA employee said that "we have privacy issues" because it helps those who violate it. He said that privacy can be safeguarded through better encryption systems and strong legal system.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Addressing an event via video-conference, he said that if Indian government was serious about implementing Aadhaar for public good, it must ensure "criminal penalty" against anyone misusing the data.

The government must slap penalty on anyone using Aadhaar data for purposes other than public services, news agency PTI reported whistle-blower Edward Snowden as saying. Addressing an event via video-conference, he said that if Indian government was serious about implementing Aadhaar for public good, it must ensure "criminal penalty" against anyone misusing the data. Mass surveillance system would look like Aadhaar as it creates systemisation of society, he told the fifth edition of 'Talk Journalism' event organised here last weekend. Systemisation of society is something that is not stated in the scheme of things for the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), he added. Replying to a question the surveillance issue, he said that no government will say that it has decided that "you don't have rights". They would rather say that they are bringing in a new programme that will safeguard people's rights and protect them. Snowden said that it's a myth that youngsters are not concerned about privacy. Youngsters are very much concerned about their privacy, he added. He made a point stating that citizens don't need to explain why they need privacy it's the government that needs to explain why people don't need rights. The former USA secret agency CIA employee said that "we have privacy issues" because it helps those who violate it. He said that privacy can be safeguarded through better encryption systems and strong legal system. (With PTI inputs)

Penalise Aadhaar data misuse, says Snowden

Emergency workers stepped up their rescue efforts in the Indian state of Kerala on Friday after the worst floods in a century hit the region.

Worst flood in a century kills hundreds in Kerala

Congress&nbsp;on Saturday revoked the suspension of senior party leader Mani Shankar Aiyar, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/after-neech-jibe-on-pm-modi-congress-suspends-mani-shankar-aiyar-26159">Aiyar was suspended</a> from the primary membership of the party December last year over his comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Modi, at a rally in Gujarat in December, alleged that Congress veteran Mani Shankar Aiyar had called him "neech".

Congress had issued a show cause notice to Aiyar and later suspended him from the party.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congress revokes the suspension of Mani Shankar Aiyar from the primary membership of the Party. He was suspended from the primary membership of the Party after he made a remark on Prime Minister during Gujarat elections. <a href="https://t.co/rnexgJnkhw">pic.twitter.com/rnexgJnkhw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030849387617026051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Congress leaders are speaking in a language that is not acceptable in a democracy. One Congress leader, who has studied in best institutions, served as a diplomat, was a Minister in Cabinet, said Modi is 'Neech.' This is insulting. This is nothing but a Mughalai mindset," PM Modi had said at an election rally in Gujarat.

Mani Shankar Aiyar had retorted saying that "Everyday PM is using foul language against our leaders. I am a freelance Congressi, I hold no post in the party, so I can reply to PM in his language."

Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi had asked Aiyar to apologise claiming that disrespecting the Prime Minister was never part of the party's culture.&nbsp;

"The Congress has a different culture and heritage. I do not appreciate the tone and language used by Mr Mani Shankar Aiyer to address the PM," the Congress leader tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
BJP and PM routinely use filthy language to attack the Congress party. The Congress has a different culture and heritage. I do not appreciate the tone and language used by Mr Mani Shankar Aiyer to address the PM. Both the Congress and I expect him to apologise for what he said.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/938732839880687616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Both the Congress and I expect him to apologise for what he said," he added.

Aiyar was suspended from the primary membership of the party in December last year over his comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress on Saturday revoked the suspension of senior party leader Mani Shankar Aiyar, news agency ANI reported. Aiyar was suspended from the primary membership of the party December last year over his comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prime Minister Modi, at a rally in Gujarat in December, alleged that Congress veteran Mani Shankar Aiyar had called him "neech". Congress had issued a show cause notice to Aiyar and later suspended him from the party. Congress revokes the suspension of Mani Shankar Aiyar from the primary membership of the Party. He was suspended from the primary membership of the Party after he made a remark on Prime Minister during Gujarat elections. pic.twitter.com/rnexgJnkhw — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × "Congress leaders are speaking in a language that is not acceptable in a democracy. One Congress leader, who has studied in best institutions, served as a diplomat, was a Minister in Cabinet, said Modi is 'Neech.' This is insulting. This is nothing but a Mughalai mindset," PM Modi had said at an election rally in Gujarat. Mani Shankar Aiyar had retorted saying that "Everyday PM is using foul language against our leaders. I am a freelance Congressi, I hold no post in the party, so I can reply to PM in his language." Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi had asked Aiyar to apologise claiming that disrespecting the Prime Minister was never part of the party's culture. "The Congress has a different culture and heritage. I do not appreciate the tone and language used by Mr Mani Shankar Aiyer to address the PM," the Congress leader tweeted. BJP and PM routinely use filthy language to attack the Congress party. The Congress has a different culture and heritage. I do not appreciate the tone and language used by Mr Mani Shankar Aiyer to address the PM. Both the Congress and I expect him to apologise for what he said. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 7, 2017 × "Both the Congress and I expect him to apologise for what he said," he added.

Congress revokes Mani Shakar Aiyar's suspension

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook an aerial survey of flood-hit Kerala today morning and promised all possible assistance and aid.

The Centre pledged Rs 500 for Kerala in addition to Rs 100 crore which was announced by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on August 12.&nbsp;

Chief Ministers of various states have also offered aid and assistance to flood-ravaged Kerala.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister and Odisha CM have announced Rs 5 crore each for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Maharashtra has allotted Rs 20 crore for Kerala to battle the destructive deluge.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced an aid of Rs 10 crore to Kerala adding that AAP ministers and MLAs will contribute their one month's salary for relief and rescue mission in Kerala.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Red Alert issued for today in 11 districts. Heavy rainfall predicted for the day in all districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam & Kasaragod. <a href="https://t.co/A7Q0V81itX">pic.twitter.com/A7Q0V81itX</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1030764608867381248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 15 crore.

Kerala has sought an immediate assistance of Rs 2,000 crore estimating a cumulative loss of state property worth over Rs ₹19,512 crore.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1030694295123058688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Army, Navy and Air force teams have been deployed on war-footing to execute relief and rescue work. So far, around 42 navy, 16 army, 28 coast guard and 39 National Disaster Relief Force teams have been deployed in rescue operations.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In a meeting convened to assess the flood situation in the State, CM Pinarayi Vijayan informed Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the State has suffered a loss of ₹19,512 crore as per initial assessment. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6SSmzjfj7">pic.twitter.com/f6SSmzjfj7</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1030694289431359489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

More rain ahead

The weather department has predicted no respite from rainfall in Kerala for the next 48 hours.&nbsp;The weather office warned of more heavy "red" category rains on Saturday, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Unabated rainfall and heavy floods have been pounding Kerala taking the death toll to a whopping 357 people.&nbsp;

All 14 districts were put on a Red Alert on Friday while Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday sounded a Red Alert for 11 districts barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday sounded a Red Alert for 11 districts barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook an aerial survey of flood-hit Kerala today morning and promised all possible assistance and aid. The Centre pledged Rs 500 for Kerala in addition to Rs 100 crore which was announced by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on August 12. Chief Ministers of various states have also offered aid and assistance to flood-ravaged Kerala. Jharkhand Chief Minister and Odisha CM have announced Rs 5 crore each for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Maharashtra has allotted Rs 20 crore for Kerala to battle the destructive deluge. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced an aid of Rs 10 crore to Kerala adding that AAP ministers and MLAs will contribute their one month's salary for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Red Alert issued for today in 11 districts. Heavy rainfall predicted for the day in all districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam & Kasaragod. pic.twitter.com/A7Q0V81itX — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 18, 2018 × Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 15 crore. Kerala has sought an immediate assistance of Rs 2,000 crore estimating a cumulative loss of state property worth over Rs ₹19,512 crore. The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance. @PMOIndia @narendramodi — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 18, 2018 × Army, Navy and Air force teams have been deployed on war-footing to execute relief and rescue work. So far, around 42 navy, 16 army, 28 coast guard and 39 National Disaster Relief Force teams have been deployed in rescue operations. In a meeting convened to assess the flood situation in the State, CM Pinarayi Vijayan informed Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the State has suffered a loss of ₹19,512 crore as per initial assessment. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/f6SSmzjfj7 — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 18, 2018 × More rain ahead The weather department has predicted no respite from rainfall in Kerala for the next 48 hours. The weather office warned of more heavy "red" category rains on Saturday, news agency Reuters reported. Unabated rainfall and heavy floods have been pounding Kerala taking the death toll to a whopping 357 people. All 14 districts were put on a Red Alert on Friday while Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday sounded a Red Alert for 11 districts barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod.

More rains to follow, states pledge financial aid to flood-ravaged Kerala 

The Indian Meteorological Department on Saturday withdrew its previously sounded Red Alert for Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam districts in Kerala.&nbsp;

The weather department's revised alert notification for flood-hit Kerala placing Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam districts on Orange Alert for Sunday. A Red Alert was previously sounded for the three districts for Sunday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other districts were warned of a Yellow and Green alert, suggesting likely rainfall at some places.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IMD?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IMD</a> withdraws red alert for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> tomorrow Only 3 districts - Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam warned of Orange alert All other districts warned of yellow and green alert, hinting likely rainfall at some places.
— Doordarshan News (@DDNewsLive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewsLive/status/1030825980443553795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Relentless rainfall and devastating floods have affected nearly all (14) districts in Kerala. As many as <a href="wionews.com/india-news/more-rains-to-follow-states-pledge-financial-aid-to-flood-ravaged-kerala-160011">357 people have lost their lives</a> in the destructive deluge so far with more than 3 lakh people displaced and homeless.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Vijayan, last week, described Kerala's situation as very grave, something that had not happened in the history of Kerala. As many as 33 dams and reservoirs were opened to maintain water level.&nbsp;

Relentless rainfall and devastating floods have affected nearly all (14) districts in Kerala.

The Indian Meteorological Department on Saturday withdrew its previously sounded Red Alert for Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam districts in Kerala. The weather department's revised alert notification for flood-hit Kerala placing Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam districts on Orange Alert for Sunday. A Red Alert was previously sounded for the three districts for Sunday. Meanwhile, other districts were warned of a Yellow and Green alert, suggesting likely rainfall at some places. #IMD withdraws red alert for #Kerala tomorrow Only 3 districts - Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Ernakulam warned of Orange alert All other districts warned of yellow and green alert, hinting likely rainfall at some places. — Doordarshan News (@DDNewsLive) August 18, 2018 × Relentless rainfall and devastating floods have affected nearly all (14) districts in Kerala. As many as 357 people have lost their lives in the destructive deluge so far with more than 3 lakh people displaced and homeless. Chief Minister Vijayan, last week, described Kerala's situation as very grave, something that had not happened in the history of Kerala. As many as 33 dams and reservoirs were opened to maintain water level.

IMD withdraws Red Alert for Kerala, Orange Alert sounded for 3 districts

Three terrorists were killed on Saturday near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Tangdhar sector in Kupwara district, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

While more updates are awaited, no further information on loss of life or property has been reported so far.&nbsp

On August 12, three people were reported injured in an explosion in Tosa Maidan area of Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Jammu & Kashmir: Three terrorists killed near Line of Control in Tangdhar sector, in Kupwara district More details awaited <a href="https://t.co/RTGJ21RKPk">pic.twitter.com/RTGJ21RKPk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030834242589220864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, Tijender Singh said, "A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. Initially, the three injured were taken to Sub District Hospital in Khag. Later, two of them were referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. The police have taken cognizance".&nbsp

The last incident in Budgam was on July 7 when one security personnel was injured after terrorists hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party in Hyderpora area.

On August 12, three people were reported to have been injured in an explosion in Tosa Maidan area of Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir.

Three terrorists were killed on Saturday near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Tangdhar sector in Kupwara district, news agency ANI reported. While more updates are awaited, no further information on loss of life or property has been reported so far. On August 12, three people were reported injured in an explosion in Tosa Maidan area of Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu & Kashmir: Three terrorists killed near Line of Control in Tangdhar sector, in Kupwara district More details awaited pic.twitter.com/RTGJ21RKPk — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, Tijender Singh said, "A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. Initially, the three injured were taken to Sub District Hospital in Khag. Later, two of them were referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. The police have taken cognizance". The last incident in Budgam was on July 7 when one security personnel was injured after terrorists hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party in Hyderpora area.

Jammu & Kashmir: Three terrorists killed near LoC in Kupwara district

As the worst flood&nbsp;in a century killed 324 people in Kerala and made more than 200,000 people homeless, the government launched a massive rescue and relief operations.

Prime minister Narendra Modi who is Kerala to take stock of the situation, left from Thiruvananthapuram for an aerial survey of flood-affected areas of Kochi.

PM Modi has also spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and discussed the situation on Friday.

As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.

Brigadier Arun CG was quoted saying by news agency ANI, "Around 700 soldiers along with specialised engineering task forces carrying boats and specialised equipment are on the ground"

So far around 4,800 people have been rescued in the past nine days, he informed adding, "I assure that we'll work day and night till Kerala comes back to normal".

ANI also posted a video showing the aerial visual of the devastating condition.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM Narendra Modi leaves from Thiruvananthapuram for an aerial survey of flood-affected areas of Kochi. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/CWdg2vzjwq">pic.twitter.com/CWdg2vzjwq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030634330970775552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Following the flood situation, Kochi airport operations to remain suspended till August 26.

Meanwhile, Telangana Chief Minister K&nbsp;Chandrasekhar Rao on Friday also announced Rs 25 crore and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore for flood-ravaged Kerala.

Israel prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu showed its support to India and sent condolences to the&nbsp;families who have lost their loved ones in the&nbsp;floods on Twitter.

The foreign ministry of Canada also tweeted,&nbsp; "stands with the people of #India who have lost loved ones and are affected by the devastating monsoon floods in the Kerala region, the worst in a century. #KeralaFloods".

Further heavy rainfall has been forecast for most parts of the state on Saturday, and authorities said they planned to implement controlled releases of water from dams to manage flows and minimise damage.

Rains are expected to subside to "light to moderate" levels on Sunday, weather office said.

&nbsp;

As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.

As the worst flood in a century killed 324 people in Kerala and made more than 200,000 people homeless, the government launched a massive rescue and relief operations. Prime minister Narendra Modi who is Kerala to take stock of the situation, left from Thiruvananthapuram for an aerial survey of flood-affected areas of Kochi. PM Modi has also spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and discussed the situation on Friday. As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety. Brigadier Arun CG was quoted saying by news agency ANI, "Around 700 soldiers along with specialised engineering task forces carrying boats and specialised equipment are on the ground" So far around 4,800 people have been rescued in the past nine days, he informed adding, "I assure that we'll work day and night till Kerala comes back to normal". ANI also posted a video showing the aerial visual of the devastating condition. PM Narendra Modi leaves from Thiruvananthapuram for an aerial survey of flood-affected areas of Kochi. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/CWdg2vzjwq — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Following the flood situation, Kochi airport operations to remain suspended till August 26. Meanwhile, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Friday also announced Rs 25 crore and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore for flood-ravaged Kerala. Israel prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu showed its support to India and sent condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the floods on Twitter. The foreign ministry of Canada also tweeted, "stands with the people of #India who have lost loved ones and are affected by the devastating monsoon floods in the Kerala region, the worst in a century. #KeralaFloods". Further heavy rainfall has been forecast for most parts of the state on Saturday, and authorities said they planned to implement controlled releases of water from dams to manage flows and minimise damage. Rains are expected to subside to "light to moderate" levels on Sunday, weather office said.

Kerala floods: PM Modi in Kochi to take aerial survey of situation

Congress president Rahul Gandhi once again urged Prime Minister Narendra &nbsp;Modi to declare devestating<a href="Kerala floods: Modi announces interim relief of Rs 500 crore against State's request of Rs 2000 crore"> Kerala floods</a> a national disaster.&nbsp;

Following his tweet today morning urging the PM to declare the floods a national disaster, Rahul tweeted increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 crore is a good step but nowhere near enough.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-urges-center-to-declare-kerala-floods-national-disaster-159973">Rahul Gandhi urges Center to declare Kerala floods national disaster</a>

''Dear PM, increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 Cr is a good step but nowhere near enough. It is critical you declare the floods as a National Disaster. Please do not vacillate as the people of Kerala are suffering,'' he tweeted.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the death toll due to rains and floods in Kerala has crossed 357 this monsoon season, as 22 more deaths were reported on Saturday and red alert continued in 11 districts following prediction of more rains.

The India Meteorological Department forecast on Saturday afternoon that widespread rains, with heavy rains at isolated places, is likely to continue over Kerala following low-pressure area very likely to develop over northwest Bay of Bengal and the neighbourhood during the next 24 hours.

Barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasargode, the remaining 11 districts of Kerala continued to be on red alert following prediction of more rains.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Dear PM, 
 
Increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 Cr is a good step but nowhere near enough. It is critical you declare the floods as a National Disaster. Please do not vacillate as the people of Kerala are suffering. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloodRelief?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloodRelief</a> <a href="https://t.co/AxabEOHftR">https://t.co/AxabEOHftR</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1030801051853762560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Following his tweet today morning urging the PM to declare the floods national disaster, Rahul tweeted increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 crore is a good step but nowhere near enough.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi once again urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to declare devestating Kerala floods a national disaster. Following his tweet today morning urging the PM to declare the floods a national disaster, Rahul tweeted increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 crore is a good step but nowhere near enough. Also read: Rahul Gandhi urges Center to declare Kerala floods national disaster ''Dear PM, increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 Cr is a good step but nowhere near enough. It is critical you declare the floods as a National Disaster. Please do not vacillate as the people of Kerala are suffering,'' he tweeted. Meanwhile, the death toll due to rains and floods in Kerala has crossed 357 this monsoon season, as 22 more deaths were reported on Saturday and red alert continued in 11 districts following prediction of more rains. The India Meteorological Department forecast on Saturday afternoon that widespread rains, with heavy rains at isolated places, is likely to continue over Kerala following low-pressure area very likely to develop over northwest Bay of Bengal and the neighbourhood during the next 24 hours. Barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasargode, the remaining 11 districts of Kerala continued to be on red alert following prediction of more rains. Dear PM, Increasing funds allocated for Kerala relief to Rs.500 Cr is a good step but nowhere near enough. It is critical you declare the floods as a National Disaster. Please do not vacillate as the people of Kerala are suffering. #KeralaFloodRelief https://t.co/AxabEOHftR — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 18, 2018 ×

Rs.500 crore is good step but nowhere near enough, says Rahul

Thousands of people stranded in isolated buildings and rooftops in flood-hit Kerala were rescued on Saturday, even as rains and fresh landslides were reported in some places.

A large number of people, including senior citizens, women and children were airlifted from isolated buildings, while many others were evacuated in army boats, large fishing vessels and makeshift yachts, official sources said.

Packed houseboats and rafts moving through inundated roads could be seen in all the flood-hit regions of the state.

However, people in worst-hit places like Pathanamthitta and Chengannur said that hundreds were yet to be evacuated.

In many places, the local people were at the forefront of the evacuation along with defence and NDRF personnel.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Relief material being dropped by Indian Air Force in Alappuzha district's Chengannur. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/lHF75DHVZv">pic.twitter.com/lHF75DHVZv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030804890333863936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Lack of information about the isolated areas and houses, where a large number of people are believed to be stuck, is a worrying factor for rescuers, official sources said.

Over 54,000 people were rescued in Ernakulam district, mainly in Paravur and Aluva taluks which had witnessed heavy rains and severe water logging in the past two days.

Over 600 students, who were stranded in a building at the campus of Sree Sankaracharya University at Kalady near Kochi, since the past two days, were rescued today, they said.

According to Navy sources, two sets of siblings from Kalady were rescued and brought to the naval base in Kochi and are waiting to join their parents.

Local leaders said thousands of people are stuck in Paravur region of Ernakulam district.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>: Red Alert issued for tomorrow in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam <a href="https://t.co/s6kyjT8Oa9">pic.twitter.com/s6kyjT8Oa9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030827732806950912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

With several people yet to be rescued, authorities today issued orders to release private boats and school buses for rescue operations.

Fishing boats are already being using for the mission.

The plantation town of Nelliyampathy in the battered Palakkad district is fully cut off as a bridge was washed away and massive boulders fell on the main road in incessant rains and landslides.

Huge granite blocks, which had fallen from atop mountains, could be seen perched precariously amidst gushing flood waters.

Youngsters could be seen helping women and the elderly cross the waters by lifting them.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
So far, various Central Ministries have made available food, water and medicines which include 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 potable water purification kits with capacity of 1,00,000 litre each: NCMC. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030828697853423622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Fresh landslides were also reported in high range Idukki.

Dead bodies were seen floating in several places, including Pandanad, Aranmula and Nenmara, where a massive landslide was reported two days ago.

Those returning home from relief camps were in for a shock, seeing muddy interiors of their homes, floating furniture, damaged books and reptiles and snails crawling inside.

District authorities have asked people living downstream of Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta to be vigilant as three of its four shutters were lifted up to 75 cm-90 cm.

The weatherman has predicted heavy rains in various places of Kerala till August 20.

Idukki district received the maximum <a href="wionews.com/india-news/more-rains-to-follow-states-pledge-financial-aid-to-flood-ravaged-kerala-160011">rainfall</a> today with Munnar and Peermade towns recording 11 cm and 10 cms respectively, they said.

According to authorities, since August 8, 194 people have lost their lives and 357 people have perished since May 29, when the south-west monsoon hit the state.

Over 3.53 lakh people are in 3026 relief camps across the state after the rains savaged Kerala.

Agriculture crops in over 40,000 hectares have been destroyed, they said.

Over 1,000 houses are fully destroyed and 26,000 partially.

Officials said 134 bridges and 16,000 km of Public Works Department roads and 82,000 kms of local roads were completely destroyed, causing a total loss of Rs 21,000 crore.&nbsp;

People in worst-hit places like Pathanamthitta and Chengannur said that hundreds were yet to be evacuated.

Thousands of people stranded in isolated buildings and rooftops in flood-hit Kerala were rescued on Saturday, even as rains and fresh landslides were reported in some places. A large number of people, including senior citizens, women and children were airlifted from isolated buildings, while many others were evacuated in army boats, large fishing vessels and makeshift yachts, official sources said. Packed houseboats and rafts moving through inundated roads could be seen in all the flood-hit regions of the state. However, people in worst-hit places like Pathanamthitta and Chengannur said that hundreds were yet to be evacuated. In many places, the local people were at the forefront of the evacuation along with defence and NDRF personnel. #Kerala: Relief material being dropped by Indian Air Force in Alappuzha district's Chengannur. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/lHF75DHVZv — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Lack of information about the isolated areas and houses, where a large number of people are believed to be stuck, is a worrying factor for rescuers, official sources said. Over 54,000 people were rescued in Ernakulam district, mainly in Paravur and Aluva taluks which had witnessed heavy rains and severe water logging in the past two days. Over 600 students, who were stranded in a building at the campus of Sree Sankaracharya University at Kalady near Kochi, since the past two days, were rescued today, they said. According to Navy sources, two sets of siblings from Kalady were rescued and brought to the naval base in Kochi and are waiting to join their parents. Local leaders said thousands of people are stuck in Paravur region of Ernakulam district. #KeralaFloods: Red Alert issued for tomorrow in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam pic.twitter.com/s6kyjT8Oa9 — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × With several people yet to be rescued, authorities today issued orders to release private boats and school buses for rescue operations. Fishing boats are already being using for the mission. The plantation town of Nelliyampathy in the battered Palakkad district is fully cut off as a bridge was washed away and massive boulders fell on the main road in incessant rains and landslides. Huge granite blocks, which had fallen from atop mountains, could be seen perched precariously amidst gushing flood waters. Youngsters could be seen helping women and the elderly cross the waters by lifting them. So far, various Central Ministries have made available food, water and medicines which include 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 potable water purification kits with capacity of 1,00,000 litre each: NCMC. #KeralaFloods — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Fresh landslides were also reported in high range Idukki. Dead bodies were seen floating in several places, including Pandanad, Aranmula and Nenmara, where a massive landslide was reported two days ago. Those returning home from relief camps were in for a shock, seeing muddy interiors of their homes, floating furniture, damaged books and reptiles and snails crawling inside. District authorities have asked people living downstream of Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta to be vigilant as three of its four shutters were lifted up to 75 cm-90 cm. The weatherman has predicted heavy rains in various places of Kerala till August 20. Idukki district received the maximum rainfall today with Munnar and Peermade towns recording 11 cm and 10 cms respectively, they said. According to authorities, since August 8, 194 people have lost their lives and 357 people have perished since May 29, when the south-west monsoon hit the state. Over 3.53 lakh people are in 3026 relief camps across the state after the rains savaged Kerala. Agriculture crops in over 40,000 hectares have been destroyed, they said. Over 1,000 houses are fully destroyed and 26,000 partially. Officials said 134 bridges and 16,000 km of Public Works Department roads and 82,000 kms of local roads were completely destroyed, causing a total loss of Rs 21,000 crore.

Thousands rescued as rains and landslides continue to haunt Kerala; loss pegged at Rs 21,000 crore

The 11th World Hindi Conference, an event aimed at expanding the reach of the Hindi language at a global level, will begin in Mauritius from Saturday.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jagannath will inaugurate the conference in Port Louis. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and other ministers are also reaching Port Louis to attend the event. This year the theme of the conference is "Hindi World and Indian Culture".

For the first time, a special flight was also arranged for official delegates. Around 290 delegates have already arrived at Port Louis on Friday. This is also the first time that representatives from all 29 states and Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh and Puducherry will be attending the conference.

The delegates from India and various countries of the world will deliberate on eight subtopics on Hindi World and Indian Culture during the three-day conference.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished for the success of the conference. In a message, Prime Minister Modi said that he is sure that this conference would further encourage the use of Hindi language and its important role in the world.

On August 10, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj had said that garnering the requisite two-thirds majority in the United Nations (UN) to make Hindi an official language was an easy task.

After the inauguration session, a report will also be released on the recommendation made during the 10th conference held in Bhopal in 2015.

World Hindi Conference was started in 1975 to make the Hindi language a medium of service and knowledge and enable it to move forward with the time. Since then, Hindi has made remarkable progress and it has become one of the prominent languages of the world.&nbsp

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and other ministers are also reaching Port Louis to attend the event.

The 11th World Hindi Conference, an event aimed at expanding the reach of the Hindi language at a global level, will begin in Mauritius from Saturday. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jagannath will inaugurate the conference in Port Louis. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and other ministers are also reaching Port Louis to attend the event. This year the theme of the conference is "Hindi World and Indian Culture". For the first time, a special flight was also arranged for official delegates. Around 290 delegates have already arrived at Port Louis on Friday. This is also the first time that representatives from all 29 states and Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh and Puducherry will be attending the conference. The delegates from India and various countries of the world will deliberate on eight subtopics on Hindi World and Indian Culture during the three-day conference. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished for the success of the conference. In a message, Prime Minister Modi said that he is sure that this conference would further encourage the use of Hindi language and its important role in the world. On August 10, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj had said that garnering the requisite two-thirds majority in the United Nations (UN) to make Hindi an official language was an easy task. After the inauguration session, a report will also be released on the recommendation made during the 10th conference held in Bhopal in 2015. World Hindi Conference was started in 1975 to make the Hindi language a medium of service and knowledge and enable it to move forward with the time. Since then, Hindi has made remarkable progress and it has become one of the prominent languages of the world.

11th World Hindi Conference to begin in Mauritius today

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday paid an emotional tribute to late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.&nbsp

Akhilesh Yadav shared an old picture of his wedding in November 1999 where Vajpayee can be seen greeting and blessing the young SP leader and his wife, Dimple Yadav.&nbsp

In his missive, former UP Chief Minister wrote that the former Prime Minister always rose above party lines and maintained that Late Vajpayee will always remain an inspiration to millions of Indians.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
स्व. अटल जी ने राजनीति को दलगत राजनीति से ऊपर उठाया, सदैव अपने दल के सिद्धांतों व अपने दर्शन पर अडिग रहना सिखाया, जब भी राजनीति भटकी उसको सही मार्ग दिखाया, विदेशों से मित्रता का पाठ पढ़ाया. अटल जी का जाना भारतीय राजनीति एवं साहित्यिक जगत के मुखरित स्वर का मौन हो जाना है. मौन नमन! <a href="https://t.co/1w4EOgr9qG">pic.twitter.com/1w4EOgr9qG</a>
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/1030341163843284993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was cremated with full state honours at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal in Delhi on Friday evening. Tens of thousands of people, including top national and international leaders, joined the final procession and paid tributes.

The three-time former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna award recipient died after a prolonged illness on Thursday evening. The 93-year-old BJP stalwart breathed his last at 5.05 PM at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the national capital.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah and the entire Union Cabinet joined to take part in the final procession.

The three-time former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna award recipient died after a prolonged illness on Thursday evening.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday paid an emotional tribute to late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Akhilesh Yadav shared an old picture of his wedding in November 1999 where Vajpayee can be seen greeting and blessing the young SP leader and his wife, Dimple Yadav. In his missive, former UP Chief Minister wrote that the former Prime Minister always rose above party lines and maintained that Late Vajpayee will always remain an inspiration to millions of Indians. स्व. अटल जी ने राजनीति को दलगत राजनीति से ऊपर उठाया, सदैव अपने दल के सिद्धांतों व अपने दर्शन पर अडिग रहना सिखाया, जब भी राजनीति भटकी उसको सही मार्ग दिखाया, विदेशों से मित्रता का पाठ पढ़ाया. अटल जी का जाना भारतीय राजनीति एवं साहित्यिक जगत के मुखरित स्वर का मौन हो जाना है. मौन नमन! pic.twitter.com/1w4EOgr9qG — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) August 17, 2018 × Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was cremated with full state honours at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal in Delhi on Friday evening. Tens of thousands of people, including top national and international leaders, joined the final procession and paid tributes. The three-time former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna award recipient died after a prolonged illness on Thursday evening. The 93-year-old BJP stalwart breathed his last at 5.05 PM at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the national capital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah and the entire Union Cabinet joined to take part in the final procession.

Akhilesh Yadav remembers Atal Bihari Vajpayee, tweets wedding photo

Air India is contemplating to operate from Kochi's naval base as the national carrier's subsidiary, Alliance Air, will test the safety aspects of operating ATR-type aircraft from the naval base, news agency PTI reported.

According to reports, Alliance Air will determine if a small aircraft, with a capacity of 70 people, can land&nbsp;in shorter runway span.&nbsp;

"If found safe, Alliance Air plans to mount (operate) more flights to Kochi's defence airbase and also pave the way for other airlines with ATR/turboprops (to operate flights from there)," a spokesperson said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Indian Commercial Pilots' Association (ICPA) pilots on the Airbus 320 & Boeing 787 in Air India, have committed to fly planes without payment to support Operation Madad & Operation Sahyog in Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030813023169069056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Air India is trying to operate from flood-hit Kochi where the airport has been flooded and therefore shut until August 27. In the meanwhile, all flights scheduled to depart from the Kochi airport have been directed to be operated from Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationMadad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationMadad</a> Air rescue has been carried out at various places of the 3 badly affected districtsThrissur, Ernakulam and Pathanamthitta, in Kerala. Various aircraft including ALH, Sea King, Chetak and MI 17 (of IAF) rescued more than 154 people till now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030802621542543361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Unabated rainfall and heavy floods have been pounding Kerala taking the death toll to a whopping 357.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationMadad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationMadad</a> scaled up for rescue in many parts of Kerala. SNC rescue teams augmented by Gemini boats, divers and other resources from both Eastern and Western Naval Commands of the India Navy. 72 diving teams deployed across multiple locations in Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030802619533414400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

All 14 districts were put on a Red Alert on Friday while Chief Minister Vijayan on Saturday sounded a Red Alert for 11 districts barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod.

Unabated rainfall and heavy floods have been pounding Kerala taking the death toll to a whopping 357.

Air India is contemplating to operate from Kochi's naval base as the national carrier's subsidiary, Alliance Air, will test the safety aspects of operating ATR-type aircraft from the naval base, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, Alliance Air will determine if a small aircraft, with a capacity of 70 people, can land in shorter runway span. "If found safe, Alliance Air plans to mount (operate) more flights to Kochi's defence airbase and also pave the way for other airlines with ATR/turboprops (to operate flights from there)," a spokesperson said. In a letter to the Prime Minister, Indian Commercial Pilots' Association (ICPA) pilots on the Airbus 320 & Boeing 787 in Air India, have committed to fly planes without payment to support Operation Madad & Operation Sahyog in Kerala. #KeralaFloods — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Air India is trying to operate from flood-hit Kochi where the airport has been flooded and therefore shut until August 27. In the meanwhile, all flights scheduled to depart from the Kochi airport have been directed to be operated from Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. #OperationMadad Air rescue has been carried out at various places of the 3 badly affected districtsThrissur, Ernakulam and Pathanamthitta, in Kerala. Various aircraft including ALH, Sea King, Chetak and MI 17 (of IAF) rescued more than 154 people till now. #KeralaFloods — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Unabated rainfall and heavy floods have been pounding Kerala taking the death toll to a whopping 357. #OperationMadad scaled up for rescue in many parts of Kerala. SNC rescue teams augmented by Gemini boats, divers and other resources from both Eastern and Western Naval Commands of the India Navy. 72 diving teams deployed across multiple locations in Kerala. #KeralaFloods — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × All 14 districts were put on a Red Alert on Friday while Chief Minister Vijayan on Saturday sounded a Red Alert for 11 districts barring Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod.

If found safe, Air India may consider operating flights from Kochi naval base

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">Kerala floods: 324 people dead in </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">worst</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900"> disaster in 100 years, PM Modi to conduct </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">aerial</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900"> survey</a>

The worst floods in a century in Kerala have killed 324 people and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps, officials said on Friday, with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still.

<a href="wionews.com/world/trump-doubles-down-on-security-clearances-former-officials-slam-move-159887">Trump doubles down on security clearances, former officials slam move</a>

&nbspPresident Donald Trump faced an unprecedented outcry from former intelligence officials on Friday after stripping the security clearance of former CIA Director John Brennan, but Trump defended his move and said he planned another one soon.

<a href="wionews.com/world/us-judge-approves-plan-to-reunite-separated-immigrant-families-159888">US judge approves </a><a href="wionews.com/world/us-judge-approves-plan-to-reunite-separated-immigrant-families-159888">plan</a><a href="wionews.com/world/us-judge-approves-plan-to-reunite-separated-immigrant-families-159888"> to reunite separated immigrant families</a>

A federal judge on Friday approved a plan to reunite hundreds more families who were separated by border officials after they entered the United States from Mexico.

<a href="wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-to-be-sworn-in-as-pakistan-prime-minister-today-159895">Imran Khan to be sworn-in as Pakistan prime minister today</a>

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan will swear-in as Pakistan's 22nd prime minister on Saturday at the resident house.&nbsp

<a href="wionews.com/world/us-government-seeks-facebook-help-to-wiretap-messenger--159892">US government seeks Facebook help to wiretap Messenger</a>

The US government is trying to force Facebook Inc to break the encryption in its popular Messenger app so law enforcement may listen to a suspect's voice conversations in a criminal probe, three people briefed on the case said, resurrecting the issue of whether companies can be compelled to alter their products to enable surveillance.

&nbsp

&nbsp

Kerala floods: 324 people dead in worst disaster in 100 years, PM Modi to conduct aerial survey The worst floods in a century in Kerala have killed 324 people and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps, officials said on Friday, with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still. Trump doubles down on security clearances, former officials slam move &nbspPresident Donald Trump faced an unprecedented outcry from former intelligence officials on Friday after stripping the security clearance of former CIA Director John Brennan, but Trump defended his move and said he planned another one soon. US judge approves plan to reunite separated immigrant families A federal judge on Friday approved a plan to reunite hundreds more families who were separated by border officials after they entered the United States from Mexico. Imran Khan to be sworn-in as Pakistan prime minister today Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan will swear-in as Pakistan's 22nd prime minister on Saturday at the resident house. US government seeks Facebook help to wiretap Messenger The US government is trying to force Facebook Inc to break the encryption in its popular Messenger app so law enforcement may listen to a suspect's voice conversations in a criminal probe, three people briefed on the case said, resurrecting the issue of whether companies can be compelled to alter their products to enable surveillance.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A court in Mumbai has extended the police custody of three suspected members of a right-wing group till August 28. The trio was arrested for allegedly hatching a conspiracy to carry out blasts in Maharashtra.

Vaibhav Raut (40), who used to run a pro-cow protection outfit, was arrested by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Maharashtra police on August 10 from Nallasopara near Mumbai.

It was followed by arrests of Sharad Kalaskar (25) from Palghar district and Sudhanva Gondhalekar (39) from Pune.

The arrested accused were produced before judge Vinod Padalkar after their police remand ended today.

The ATS told the court that it has seized arms and explosives from the house of one Prasad Deshpande at Natepute village in Malshiras tehsil of Solapur district, along with some letters.

These letters, as well as other documents and messages, exchanged through mobile phones by the accused contained some code words which the ATS wanted to probe, the prosecution said.

The defence lawyer argued that there was no need for further ATS custody of the accused as the examination of seized evidence was the job of forensic experts.

However, the prosecution maintained that the probe will come to a halt without further custodial interrogation.

While the ATS wanted a 15-day extension to the custody period, the court extended the accused's police remand till August 28.

After the arrests, the ATS had claimed that it had seized a huge cache of explosive materials and country-made firearms during raids at various places in the state.

Alleging that the trio was planning to carry out blasts in the state ahead of Independence Day and Bakri-Eid festival, the ATS had said it would also probe if the accused had any connection with the killings of rationalists Narendra Dabholkar and Govind Pansare, and journalist Gauri Lankesh.

The trio has been booked under terror-related provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The trio has been booked under terror-related provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

A court in Mumbai has extended the police custody of three suspected members of a right-wing group till August 28. The trio was arrested for allegedly hatching a conspiracy to carry out blasts in Maharashtra. Vaibhav Raut (40), who used to run a pro-cow protection outfit, was arrested by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Maharashtra police on August 10 from Nallasopara near Mumbai. It was followed by arrests of Sharad Kalaskar (25) from Palghar district and Sudhanva Gondhalekar (39) from Pune. The arrested accused were produced before judge Vinod Padalkar after their police remand ended today. The ATS told the court that it has seized arms and explosives from the house of one Prasad Deshpande at Natepute village in Malshiras tehsil of Solapur district, along with some letters. These letters, as well as other documents and messages, exchanged through mobile phones by the accused contained some code words which the ATS wanted to probe, the prosecution said. The defence lawyer argued that there was no need for further ATS custody of the accused as the examination of seized evidence was the job of forensic experts. However, the prosecution maintained that the probe will come to a halt without further custodial interrogation. While the ATS wanted a 15-day extension to the custody period, the court extended the accused's police remand till August 28. After the arrests, the ATS had claimed that it had seized a huge cache of explosive materials and country-made firearms during raids at various places in the state. Alleging that the trio was planning to carry out blasts in the state ahead of Independence Day and Bakri-Eid festival, the ATS had said it would also probe if the accused had any connection with the killings of rationalists Narendra Dabholkar and Govind Pansare, and journalist Gauri Lankesh. The trio has been booked under terror-related provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Explosive seizure case: ATS custody of 3 accused extended

As devastating floods continue to wreak havoc in&nbspKerala, 21-year-old college student, who was viciously trolled for selling fish to meet her educational needs, has contributed Rs 1.5 lakh towards the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, reported news agency PTI.

Hanan, a college student from Kochi, said the money was donated by various people after her struggle to fund her studies and take care of her family was widely shared on the social media, the report added.

"I had got the amount from people and I am happy to give back the amount to the needy," she was quoted as saying.

Hanan, who also worked as an anchor and flower girl for programmes to make ends meet, requested people to donate for the relief works.

A B.Sc student at a private college at Thodupuzha in Idukki district, Hanan's story had gone viral after a Malayalam daily reported her struggles.

But, a section of social media users expressed doubts about her struggles and claimed it was "fake."

Besides Hanan, people from various walks of life are generously contributing money and various essentials for helping the needy.

Sajeesh, a government employee and husband of nurse Lini Puthussery, who died of Nipah after she contracted the deadly virus from a patient, donated his first salary of Rs 25,000 to the relief fund.

The Kerala government had given Sajeesh a job in the health sector in recognition of Lini's selfless service.

Sixty-eight-year-old Rohini from Thalassery in Kannur district, who draws a monthly pension of Rs 600 and has no other source of income, contributed Rs 1000 online to the relief fund.

Social media groups, students, actors and NGOs are among those who have made contributions to the relief fund.&nbsp

Hanan, who also worked as an anchor and flower girl for programmes to make ends meet, requested people to donate for the relief works.

As devastating floods continue to wreak havoc in&nbspKerala, 21-year-old college student, who was viciously trolled for selling fish to meet her educational needs, has contributed Rs 1.5 lakh towards the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, reported news agency PTI. Hanan, a college student from Kochi, said the money was donated by various people after her struggle to fund her studies and take care of her family was widely shared on the social media, the report added. "I had got the amount from people and I am happy to give back the amount to the needy," she was quoted as saying. Hanan, who also worked as an anchor and flower girl for programmes to make ends meet, requested people to donate for the relief works. A B.Sc student at a private college at Thodupuzha in Idukki district, Hanan's story had gone viral after a Malayalam daily reported her struggles. But, a section of social media users expressed doubts about her struggles and claimed it was "fake." Besides Hanan, people from various walks of life are generously contributing money and various essentials for helping the needy. Sajeesh, a government employee and husband of nurse Lini Puthussery, who died of Nipah after she contracted the deadly virus from a patient, donated his first salary of Rs 25,000 to the relief fund. The Kerala government had given Sajeesh a job in the health sector in recognition of Lini's selfless service. Sixty-eight-year-old Rohini from Thalassery in Kannur district, who draws a monthly pension of Rs 600 and has no other source of income, contributed Rs 1000 online to the relief fund. Social media groups, students, actors and NGOs are among those who have made contributions to the relief fund.

Kerala girl trolled for selling fish contributes Rs 1.5 lakh to CM's relief fund

India mourned on Friday as former Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was cremated with full state honours at Smriti Sthal in Delhi. Following his demise, Israel and Canada also paid their tributes to the leader.

A statement posted on microblogging site Twitter by Canada Foreign Ministry reads, "Canada extends its sincerest condolences to the people of #India following the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who devoted his life to the benefit of his country."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Canada extends its sincerest condolences to the people of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> following the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who devoted his life to the benefit of his country.
— Foreign Policy CAN (@CanadaFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CanadaFP/status/1030451577415512064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Israel's Foreign Ministry also condoled the demise as it described the leader "a genuine friend of Israel."

The ministry wrote on the Twitter, "He will always be remembered as a genuine friend of Israel. #AtalBihariVajpayee #Vajpayee."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We extend our deepest condolences to the government and people of India at the loss of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>'s former PM Vajpayee. 
 
He will always be remembered as a genuine friend of Israel. ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vajpayee</a> <a href="https://t.co/rexLTiHj1z">pic.twitter.com/rexLTiHj1z</a>
— Israel Foreign Min. (@IsraelMFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelMFA/status/1030463463926190081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe also remembered Vajpayee as he called him a "good friend of Japan"

"On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the Government and people of India and the bereaved family. His Excellency Vajpayee visited Japan in 2001 as the then Prime Minister and made significant contributions to the friendship between our two countries as a good friend of Japan. It is him who established the cornerstone of Japan-India relations today."

Terming Vajpayee as an eminent leader of India, Abe added, "I pray from the bottom of my heart that his soul may rest in peace."

India's 10th prime minister and true statesman took his last breath on Thursday as All India Institute of Medical Sciences announced the demise after being admitted there for almost a month.&nbsp;

Many international leaders and countries also mourned Vajpayee's death.

Along with national leaders, a string of foreign dignitaries including King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, Sri Lanka's acting Foreign Minister Lakshman Kiriella and former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai,&nbsp;were in the national capital to attend Vajpayee's last rites yesterday.

Vajpayee, who led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government from 1998 to 2004, was the first-ever member of the BJP to become India's Prime Minister. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour in 2015.&nbsp;

Israel's Foreign Ministry also condoled the demise as it described the leader 'a genuine friend of Israel.'

India mourned on Friday as former Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was cremated with full state honours at Smriti Sthal in Delhi. Following his demise, Israel and Canada also paid their tributes to the leader. A statement posted on microblogging site Twitter by Canada Foreign Ministry reads, "Canada extends its sincerest condolences to the people of #India following the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who devoted his life to the benefit of his country." Canada extends its sincerest condolences to the people of #India following the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who devoted his life to the benefit of his country. — Foreign Policy CAN (@CanadaFP) August 17, 2018 × Israel's Foreign Ministry also condoled the demise as it described the leader "a genuine friend of Israel." The ministry wrote on the Twitter, "He will always be remembered as a genuine friend of Israel. #AtalBihariVajpayee #Vajpayee." We extend our deepest condolences to the government and people of India at the loss of #India's former PM Vajpayee. He will always be remembered as a genuine friend of Israel. ????#AtalBihariVajpayee #Vajpayee pic.twitter.com/rexLTiHj1z — Israel Foreign Min. (@IsraelMFA) August 17, 2018 × Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe also remembered Vajpayee as he called him a "good friend of Japan" "On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the Government and people of India and the bereaved family. His Excellency Vajpayee visited Japan in 2001 as the then Prime Minister and made significant contributions to the friendship between our two countries as a good friend of Japan. It is him who established the cornerstone of Japan-India relations today." Terming Vajpayee as an eminent leader of India, Abe added, "I pray from the bottom of my heart that his soul may rest in peace." India's 10th prime minister and true statesman took his last breath on Thursday as All India Institute of Medical Sciences announced the demise after being admitted there for almost a month. Many international leaders and countries also mourned Vajpayee's death. Along with national leaders, a string of foreign dignitaries including King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, Sri Lanka's acting Foreign Minister Lakshman Kiriella and former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai, were in the national capital to attend Vajpayee's last rites yesterday. Vajpayee, who led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government from 1998 to 2004, was the first-ever member of the BJP to become India's Prime Minister. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour in 2015.

Israel, Canada, Japan condole Vajpayee's demise

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday conducted an aerial survey of flood and landslide affected areas of Kodagu.

Earlier in the day, the Karnataka Chief Minister conducted a press briefing and said that over one thousand security personnel are involved in the rescue operation of those affected by torrential rains in the state.

He said, "Over 1000 security personnel, including those from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy, Army, Fire Department, Home Guards etc. are involved in rescue operations. Air Force is lifting stranded people and is also dropping relief material where required. 200 cadets from National Cadet Corps (NCC) are also working for rescue and relief. We are working non-stop".

Briefing further about the casualties and damages, Kumaraswamy said, "Over 11,000 houses have been damaged. Six people have lost their lives in Kodagu district. Many officials from other areas have been shifted to Kodagu. Officials have been asked to provide a list of damaged roads and start the work for repairs". He also informed that Banks have been ordered to stock up their ATMs.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Situation is under control, district administration is taking proper care. Nearly 60 people are stuck in a village in Kodagu & Indian Army has reached there. We are arranging helicopters but the weather is not allowing us to fly: Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaRains?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaRains</a> <a href="https://t.co/p56j88TijC">pic.twitter.com/p56j88TijC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030786891698692096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Before the presser, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy conducted a video conference with the Deputy Commissioners of flood-affected districts.

On Saturday morning, Kodagu district in-charge minister Sa Ra Mahesh had told ANI that the rescue operations in the rain-battered district will be over by evening.

A high alert in five districts namely Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga was declared on August 15 by the Karnataka Chief Minister. Incessant rains have lashed Karnataka since August 14, causing landslide and disruption of normal life in the state.&nbsp;

Officials have been asked to provide a list of damaged roads and start the work for repairs

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday conducted an aerial survey of flood and landslide affected areas of Kodagu. Earlier in the day, the Karnataka Chief Minister conducted a press briefing and said that over one thousand security personnel are involved in the rescue operation of those affected by torrential rains in the state. He said, "Over 1000 security personnel, including those from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy, Army, Fire Department, Home Guards etc. are involved in rescue operations. Air Force is lifting stranded people and is also dropping relief material where required. 200 cadets from National Cadet Corps (NCC) are also working for rescue and relief. We are working non-stop". Briefing further about the casualties and damages, Kumaraswamy said, "Over 11,000 houses have been damaged. Six people have lost their lives in Kodagu district. Many officials from other areas have been shifted to Kodagu. Officials have been asked to provide a list of damaged roads and start the work for repairs". He also informed that Banks have been ordered to stock up their ATMs. Situation is under control, district administration is taking proper care. Nearly 60 people are stuck in a village in Kodagu & Indian Army has reached there. We are arranging helicopters but the weather is not allowing us to fly: Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy #KarnatakaRains pic.twitter.com/p56j88TijC — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Before the presser, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy conducted a video conference with the Deputy Commissioners of flood-affected districts. On Saturday morning, Kodagu district in-charge minister Sa Ra Mahesh had told ANI that the rescue operations in the rain-battered district will be over by evening. A high alert in five districts namely Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga was declared on August 15 by the Karnataka Chief Minister. Incessant rains have lashed Karnataka since August 14, causing landslide and disruption of normal life in the state.

Karnataka CM conducts aerial survey of flood, landslide affected areas

Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded the Central government to declare Kerala floods a national disaster. Gandhi took to Twitter and stated that the "lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake".&nbsp;

"Please declare Kerala floods a national disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake," Gandhi tweeted out.&nbsp;

Kerala continues to get pounded by heavy rains and devastating floods with the situation worsening over the past few days. The death toll has dramatically shot up to over 300 people with a cumulative loss of state property worth over Rs ₹19,512 crore.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court, this week, described Kerala's situation as grave. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan noted that for the first time in the history of Kerala "almost all dams have been opened".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Dear PM, 
 
Please declare <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> floods a National Disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1030692368461299712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the wake of the destructive deluge, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Kerala last night and undertook an aerial survey of the state this morning.&nbsp;

The Central government has released Rs 500 crore for relief and rescue work in Kerala, over and above Rs 100 crore announced by Home Minister Rajnath Singh on August 12.

Various state governments have also come up with all possible assistance. Chief Ministers of Gujarat, Haryana and Bihar have announced an aid of Rs 10 crore each for flood-hit Kerala.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister and Odisha CM have announced Rs 5 crore each for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Maharashtra has allotted Rs 20 crore for Kerala to battle the destructive deluge.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced an aid of Rs 10 crore to Kerala adding that AAP ministers and MLAs will contribute their one month's salary for relief and rescue mission in Kerala.&nbsp;

Army, Navy and Air force teams have been knee deep in relief and rescue work.&nbsp;

Army, Navy and Air force teams have been knee deep in relief and rescue over the past week on war-footing.

Congress Chief Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded the Central government to declare Kerala floods a national disaster. Gandhi took to Twitter and stated that the "lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake". "Please declare Kerala floods a national disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake," Gandhi tweeted out. Kerala continues to get pounded by heavy rains and devastating floods with the situation worsening over the past few days. The death toll has dramatically shot up to over 300 people with a cumulative loss of state property worth over Rs ₹19,512 crore. The Supreme Court, this week, described Kerala's situation as grave. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan noted that for the first time in the history of Kerala "almost all dams have been opened". Dear PM, Please declare #Kerala floods a National Disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 18, 2018 × In the wake of the destructive deluge, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Kerala last night and undertook an aerial survey of the state this morning. The Central government has released Rs 500 crore for relief and rescue work in Kerala, over and above Rs 100 crore announced by Home Minister Rajnath Singh on August 12. Various state governments have also come up with all possible assistance. Chief Ministers of Gujarat, Haryana and Bihar have announced an aid of Rs 10 crore each for flood-hit Kerala. Jharkhand Chief Minister and Odisha CM have announced Rs 5 crore each for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Maharashtra has allotted Rs 20 crore for Kerala to battle the destructive deluge. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced an aid of Rs 10 crore to Kerala adding that AAP ministers and MLAs will contribute their one month's salary for relief and rescue mission in Kerala. Army, Navy and Air force teams have been knee deep in relief and rescue work.

Rahul Gandhi urges Center to declare Kerala floods national disaster

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has&nbsp;constituted a six-member task force&nbsp;headed by senior party leader Jaipal Reddy to take on BJP over Rafale deal.

50 Congress leaders will be holding press&nbsp;conferences in 100 cities across India in coming days on Rafale deal, sources said

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congress President Rahul Gandhi constitutes six-member team to hold conferences nationwide over Rafale deal. Senior Congress leader Jaipal Reddy to head the team: Sources (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/ZcwcIDRGTj">pic.twitter.com/ZcwcIDRGTj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030783252494073856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Congress wants to make Rafale the cornerstone of Lok Sabha elections in 2019, the source added.

Shakti Singh Gohil, Arjun Modwadia, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Jaiveer Shergill and Pawan Khera are the other members of the group.

It also marks the return of Jaipal Reddy in organisational politics after an absence of 4 years.

In a meeting held today at Congress War Room with CLP leaders and PCC heads, Congress President Rahul Gandhi emphasised the importance to expose the BJP on the ''Rafale Scam''.&nbsp;

Congress Media Cell Chairman Randeep Surjewala will head the Task Force and the members.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has constituted a six-member task force headed by senior party leader Jaipal Reddy to take on BJP over Rafale deal. 50 Congress leaders will be holding press conferences in 100 cities across India in coming days on Rafale deal, sources said Congress President Rahul Gandhi constitutes six-member team to hold conferences nationwide over Rafale deal. Senior Congress leader Jaipal Reddy to head the team: Sources (File pic) pic.twitter.com/ZcwcIDRGTj — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Congress wants to make Rafale the cornerstone of Lok Sabha elections in 2019, the source added. Shakti Singh Gohil, Arjun Modwadia, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Jaiveer Shergill and Pawan Khera are the other members of the group. It also marks the return of Jaipal Reddy in organisational politics after an absence of 4 years. In a meeting held today at Congress War Room with CLP leaders and PCC heads, Congress President Rahul Gandhi emphasised the importance to expose the BJP on the ''Rafale Scam''.

Rahul Gandhi forms 6-member task force to take on BJP over Rafale deal

Two men, who had claimed responsibility for the attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid and said that they would surrender in a village in Punjab, did not turn up, police said.

A team of Delhi Police's Special Cell visited the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha where the duo, Darwesh Shahpur and Naveen Dalal, had said they would surrender.&nbsp

A senior police officer said the two did not turn up there and have not been seen in their native village Jhajjar in Haryana for the past few days.&nbsp

In a video uploaded on Facebook on August 15, the duo claimed the attack on Khalid was supposed to be an "Independence Day gift" to the citizens.

Police are verifying the authenticity of the video and trying to trace the IP address from where it was uploaded.&nbsp&nbsp &nbsp

"We respect our Constitution. But there is no provision in our Constitution to punish mad dogs. By mad dogs, we mean the JNU gang that is making the country weaker and their number is increasing. Our elders in Haryana have taught us that such people should be taught a lesson," Shahpur had said in the video message.

The duo also requested the police to not trouble anyone and said they would surrender at the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha on August 17.

Khalid was attacked on Monday when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt.

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students.

The police had also said that they were not "intimated" about Monday's event attended by Khalid.

A police officer, privy to the probe, said the police had seized the weapon used in the crime and preliminary forensic examination suggested that the pistol had jammed when it was used against Khalid.

He said they were yet to ascertain whether shots were fired as no empty cartridges were found at the spot.

A case of attempt to murder has been registered by police in the incident.&nbsp

Two men -- Darwesh Shahpur and Naveen Dalal -- had claimed responsibility for the attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid.

Two men, who had claimed responsibility for the attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid and said that they would surrender in a village in Punjab, did not turn up, police said. A team of Delhi Police's Special Cell visited the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha where the duo, Darwesh Shahpur and Naveen Dalal, had said they would surrender. A senior police officer said the two did not turn up there and have not been seen in their native village Jhajjar in Haryana for the past few days. In a video uploaded on Facebook on August 15, the duo claimed the attack on Khalid was supposed to be an "Independence Day gift" to the citizens. Police are verifying the authenticity of the video and trying to trace the IP address from where it was uploaded. "We respect our Constitution. But there is no provision in our Constitution to punish mad dogs. By mad dogs, we mean the JNU gang that is making the country weaker and their number is increasing. Our elders in Haryana have taught us that such people should be taught a lesson," Shahpur had said in the video message. The duo also requested the police to not trouble anyone and said they would surrender at the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha on August 17. Khalid was attacked on Monday when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt. On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students. The police had also said that they were not "intimated" about Monday's event attended by Khalid. A police officer, privy to the probe, said the police had seized the weapon used in the crime and preliminary forensic examination suggested that the pistol had jammed when it was used against Khalid. He said they were yet to ascertain whether shots were fired as no empty cartridges were found at the spot. A case of attempt to murder has been registered by police in the incident.

Umar Khalid attack: Accused duo didn't turn up at Punjab village, says police

The Indian Army and the Indian Navy have been pressed to carry out rescue and relief operations in the vulnerable areas of flood-ravaged Kerala.

Video: Rescue and relief operations underway in Kerala

Former Union Minister and Kashmir Chief Minister&nbsp;Farooq Abdullah spoke to WION on a&nbsp;number of issues ranging from Pakistan, Kashmir to threat to his life. Abdullah insisted that talks with Pakistan should be resumed and advocated for an open border. He said that new government has taken the oath in Pakistan and both India and Pakistan must make some hard choices. He also said that the matter of the security at his residence should be looked into.

WION: Prime Minister Modi spoke about local poll bodies in Kashmir. Is it a good idea and can they be held peacefully?

Farooq Abdullah: A Panchayat is a basic democratic institution. Let people look after their affairs instead of government officers. I think Panchayat elections should be held. I held them under terrible circumstances. There will be some tragedies. Those who do not want elections will try to see they do not succeed. I think it is a good idea and elections must be held. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What needs to be done so that things return to normal in Kashmir?

Farooq Abdullah: There are&nbsp;a number of things that need to be done. People want peace in Kashmir and peace will not flow from the barrel of the gun. It has to come by talking to the neighbour who is promoting unrest in the Valley. Unless Pakistan is brought on the table, the situation will not improve. New Prime Minister of Pakistan is taking over today and his utterances have been very good. I hope we would reciprocate, we should try&nbsp;to find a way out. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Why are you saying that peace in the Kashmir is impossible without Pakistan’s cooperation?

Farooq Abdullah: Who started this whole thing? How did it grow? Where are these people trained? It cannot be ignored that Pakistan is very much part of it. Pakistan also has grievances and they can be settled by sitting across the table. Shri Vajpayee tried but lost the 2004 elections. Things could have been better if he had been involved a bit longer. We have to work on those lines. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What grievances can Pakistan have?

Farooq Abdullah: Grievances are there and cannot be won by the&nbsp;use of the force. Force will not give you the result. Let’s find out what is pinching your foot? 
&nbsp; 
WION: Whom do you talk to in Pakistan? Imran Khan or&nbsp;Army?

Farooq Abdullah: Imran Khan has just taken the&nbsp;oath. The party that helped him come to power is the Army and let’s be frank about it. If Imran Khan makes the right moves then Army will support him. I’m not saying that PM’s should talk. Let other people talk and prepare the ground so that PMs could talk one day. I’m not saying that it should be like the Agra Summit which took place after Kargil and did not produce any result. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Modi made overtures. Met Nawaz Sharif. Look where Sharif has ended?

Farooq Abdullah: Why only Nawaz? Zardari is also on the mat. It is their problem. Just because you had dinner with the PM does not mean that the&nbsp;problem is solved. It has to be solved at the table. They claim entire Kashmir and we claim what they possess. How can we come out of it? Entire SAARC is held to ransom because of this problem. 
&nbsp; 
WION: You have often spoken about the LoC being given a sanctity of a border. Is it workable?

Farooq Abdullah: What about Ireland? Look at them today, they have no borders. People work across the border and use different currencies. If there is a will there will be a way. Both the sides need to be willing. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Who needs to make an overture?

Farooq Abdullah: Who makes an overture is not important, the point is that we need a way forward. We are just destroying each other and we need to put an end to it. India needs to focus on better things. There is poverty to fight. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How did stone pelting start in the valley? It was not there 5 years back.

Farooq Abdullah: We need to get to the bottom of it. But has there been any political meeting of a party with the present the&nbsp;government? Changing CM’s way does not solve the situation. A dialogue is the only way forward. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Kashmir also has an interlocutor?

Farooq Abdullah: Have you heard anything from the interlocutor? What has happened to the previous interlocutors? Nothing has been done on the report they produced. Similarly, the Vora report too is gathering dust. These reports should be&nbsp;tabled in the Parliament. Why cannot India see them? We are not anti-India, we are part of India. Rounds of shells are being fired across the border and in the process civilians and soldiers of both sides are dying. Foreign power is making money by selling guns to both of us. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is the present violence a fallout of PDP-BJP alliance?

Farooq Abdullah: I don’t want to talk about it. The question is, has it brought people together and made India stronger? Or has it divided India and divided them into Hindus and Muslims? Are we dividing India further? 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is mainstream politics impacting Kashmiri discourse?

Farooq Abdullah: I think so. Media too has its responsibility. Kashmir is being boiled down to fight between terrorists and Army. But Kashmiri Muslims performing last rites of a pandit in the valley, as he does not have relatives, is not shown. Hatred is being promoted and this needs to be curbed. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What is the principal objection of the National Conference on Article 34(A)?

Farooq Abdullah: &nbsp;We are opposed to any change, it is our faith. Our faith is article 370 through which J&K joined India. We never merged with India, other states merged with India, J&K joined India it could have gone to Pakistan. Article 370 was brought to safeguard the interest. You cannot buy lands in Arunachal Pradesh or North East too. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What explains the push for 35(A)? An imagination that the process of an amalgamation of Kashmir with India is an unfinished business?

Farooq Abdullah: Aren’t we part of India? We are part of India and that is where the battle lie. It is the feeling in some people that we are not part of India. This feeling should be taken out of them. We are as much a part of India as any person from another state. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What is the difference of approach between the present government and the one run by Vajpayee Ji when it comes to Kashmir?

Farooq Abdullah: Vajpayee ji was a different man. He fought my father, he was from RSS but he knew that if India has to move forward then it has to move forward with everyone. He fought RSS from inside asking them to change with time. He was strong and that is why his name was Atal. He could take decisions which no one could take. 
&nbsp; 
When the Kargil war took place, I went to meet Vajpayee with a General of 15th Corp. Pakistani soldiers were sitting in our bunkers. The commanders told me that they would win but lose a&nbsp;lot of people if the&nbsp;Air Force is not used. They argued that mountains are bare and the&nbsp;movement of soldiers is taking place at&nbsp;night.

I saw the IAF Chief going out, but when I told him this, he said, "it needs to be done."

Vajpayee called back the IAF chief. The Chief said that if we use the Air Force then it will escalate the war and all borders will open up. Vajpayee said that when Pakistanis walked miles insides out territory did they not think that it will open up the borders?

He asked him to do whatever is necessary and use whatever he has. Musharraf had to run to Clinton. He lost the battle of Kashmir that day. He had to accept that it was them fighting in Kashmir and not the jihadis. Musharraf had to ask Clinton to tell India that they want to withdraw. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How do you remember Vajpayee? There were talks that you would become the Vice President of the country?

Farooq Abdullah: That was not in my fate. He was a great man, he was sensitive and talked straight. He knew how to live life. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Did you share his love of food?

Farooq Abdullah: Whenever he went abroad he would take people accompanying him to the best and choicest of the eating houses. He ran a coalition of 23 parties and it is not a joke. I don’t think that anyone can do it ever again. He ran it very smoothly. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is the perception of terrorist vs Army discourse stalling the talks in Kashmir?

Farooq Abdullah: When firing happens or pelting happens, what happens? Forces enter homes, things are broken. You antagonize people. This makes them feel that they have nowhere to go. You make enemies. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Forces are also getting attacked by stone pelters and people give cover to terrorists when operations are on?

Farooq Abdullah: You cannot win people like this. Infiltration continues. One day the dam would burst. One day escalation between the two nations will become too big to handle. 
&nbsp; 
WION: It is not easy to talk to a country which perpetrated 26/11? Is it a hard choice?

Farooq Abdullah: It is not a simple choice, it is a hard choice. It is neither a simple choice for Pakistan who has been telling their people for the&nbsp;past 70 years that Kashmir belongs to them. Can a Pakistani PM say that territory with India does not belong to them? Can an Indian PM say that let Pakistan keep the other part of Kashmir? Is it even possible? That is why it is a hard choice. 
&nbsp; 
WION: There are people within India who have grievances. Kashmiri Pandits have not be resettled

Farooq Abdullah: There are Kashmiri Pandits in villages. There are a&nbsp;lot of factors. Are Kashmiri pandits willing to go back? They have settled in various parts of the country. When Gujral was the PM, we made a plan to get them back but Ganderbal tragedy happened. So, we need to get Pakistan on the table. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is it possible to conduct free and fair elections in Kashmir?

Farooq Abdullah: Elections need to be&nbsp;conducted. You cannot give in. I won my election but Anantnag election was stayed. Democracy needs to survive. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What was the reason behind it?

Farooq Abdullah: You ask people. Do not withdraw from the&nbsp;election, that is my motto. Democratic institutions need&nbsp;to be strengthened. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How do you conduct elections when most of the political stakeholders cannot move around freely?

Farooq Abdullah: Out of 1000, 10 will vote. These institutions need to be strengthened. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Kashmir hops from one election to another without democracy percolating down

Farooq Abdullah: Why are you worried. It will percolate, you cannot give in. Democratic institutions cannot be killed. There are turbulent times but does not mean that turbulence will remain all the time. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is 'Grand Alliance'&nbsp;a great idea?

Farooq Abdullah: Opposition is required in a democracy. If you have a strong Opposition it can check the government. When I came to power in 1996 with a&nbsp;huge majority, a&nbsp;lot of people wanted to join my party. I would ask them not to do so because an Opposition was required. Even if the BJP wins the election, Opposition emerges in a&nbsp;bigger number, it will be good for the country. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Has Rahul Gandhi come of age?

Farooq Abdullah: The Same question was asked of Rajiv Gandhi. People would say that how will a pilot run the country. People gain experience over time, he will also learn. PM Modi also learnt as CM.

WION: A man was shot inside your residence in J&K. Do you think your life is in danger?

Farooq Abdullah: I don’t know. I faced death. A man enter my house when I was not there, Omar was also not present. The matter must be probed. How could he enter from the gate without any damage to his vehicle? He drove all the way in and walked right to the front door of my house.

He broke things and started to climb stairs to our bedrooms, it was strange. How did he have the knowledge of the house? Who is behind it? Was it a recce that something like this could be done in the future? This is when I have all the protection. How did he get in? Something is behind it and it must be probed properly. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What is the task of Farooq Abdullah in 2018-19?

Farooq Abdullah: I will continue to work to unite the nation. I want to see an India where hunger does not exist.

'Article 370 was brought to safeguard the interest. You cannot buy lands in Arunachal Pradesh or Northeast too,' Abdullah told WION's Kartikeya Sharma

Former Union Minister and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah spoke to WION on a number of issues ranging from Pakistan, Kashmir to threat to his life. Abdullah insisted that talks with Pakistan should be resumed and advocated for an open border. He said that new government has taken the oath in Pakistan and both India and Pakistan must make some hard choices. He also said that the matter of the security at his residence should be looked into. WION: Prime Minister Modi spoke about local poll bodies in Kashmir. Is it a good idea and can they be held peacefully? Farooq Abdullah: A Panchayat is a basic democratic institution. Let people look after their affairs instead of government officers. I think Panchayat elections should be held. I held them under terrible circumstances. There will be some tragedies. Those who do not want elections will try to see they do not succeed. I think it is a good idea and elections must be held. WION: What needs to be done so that things return to normal in Kashmir? Farooq Abdullah: There are a number of things that need to be done. People want peace in Kashmir and peace will not flow from the barrel of the gun. It has to come by talking to the neighbour who is promoting unrest in the Valley. Unless Pakistan is brought on the table, the situation will not improve. New Prime Minister of Pakistan is taking over today and his utterances have been very good. I hope we would reciprocate, we should try to find a way out. WION: Why are you saying that peace in the Kashmir is impossible without Pakistan’s cooperation? Farooq Abdullah: Who started this whole thing? How did it grow? Where are these people trained? It cannot be ignored that Pakistan is very much part of it. Pakistan also has grievances and they can be settled by sitting across the table. Shri Vajpayee tried but lost the 2004 elections. Things could have been better if he had been involved a bit longer. We have to work on those lines. WION: What grievances can Pakistan have? Farooq Abdullah: Grievances are there and cannot be won by the use of the force. Force will not give you the result. Let’s find out what is pinching your foot? WION: Whom do you talk to in Pakistan? Imran Khan or Army? Farooq Abdullah: Imran Khan has just taken the oath. The party that helped him come to power is the Army and let’s be frank about it. If Imran Khan makes the right moves then Army will support him. I’m not saying that PM’s should talk. Let other people talk and prepare the ground so that PMs could talk one day. I’m not saying that it should be like the Agra Summit which took place after Kargil and did not produce any result. WION: Modi made overtures. Met Nawaz Sharif. Look where Sharif has ended? Farooq Abdullah: Why only Nawaz? Zardari is also on the mat. It is their problem. Just because you had dinner with the PM does not mean that the problem is solved. It has to be solved at the table. They claim entire Kashmir and we claim what they possess. How can we come out of it? Entire SAARC is held to ransom because of this problem. WION: You have often spoken about the LoC being given a sanctity of a border. Is it workable? Farooq Abdullah: What about Ireland? Look at them today, they have no borders. People work across the border and use different currencies. If there is a will there will be a way. Both the sides need to be willing. WION: Who needs to make an overture? Farooq Abdullah: Who makes an overture is not important, the point is that we need a way forward. We are just destroying each other and we need to put an end to it. India needs to focus on better things. There is poverty to fight. WION: How did stone pelting start in the valley? It was not there 5 years back. Farooq Abdullah: We need to get to the bottom of it. But has there been any political meeting of a party with the present the government? Changing CM’s way does not solve the situation. A dialogue is the only way forward. WION: Kashmir also has an interlocutor? Farooq Abdullah: Have you heard anything from the interlocutor? What has happened to the previous interlocutors? Nothing has been done on the report they produced. Similarly, the Vora report too is gathering dust. These reports should be tabled in the Parliament. Why cannot India see them? We are not anti-India, we are part of India. Rounds of shells are being fired across the border and in the process civilians and soldiers of both sides are dying. Foreign power is making money by selling guns to both of us. WION: Is the present violence a fallout of PDP-BJP alliance? Farooq Abdullah: I don’t want to talk about it. The question is, has it brought people together and made India stronger? Or has it divided India and divided them into Hindus and Muslims? Are we dividing India further? WION: Is mainstream politics impacting Kashmiri discourse? Farooq Abdullah: I think so. Media too has its responsibility. Kashmir is being boiled down to fight between terrorists and Army. But Kashmiri Muslims performing last rites of a pandit in the valley, as he does not have relatives, is not shown. Hatred is being promoted and this needs to be curbed. WION: What is the principal objection of the National Conference on Article 34(A)? Farooq Abdullah: We are opposed to any change, it is our faith. Our faith is article 370 through which J&K joined India. We never merged with India, other states merged with India, J&K joined India it could have gone to Pakistan. Article 370 was brought to safeguard the interest. You cannot buy lands in Arunachal Pradesh or North East too. WION: What explains the push for 35(A)? An imagination that the process of an amalgamation of Kashmir with India is an unfinished business? Farooq Abdullah: Aren’t we part of India? We are part of India and that is where the battle lie. It is the feeling in some people that we are not part of India. This feeling should be taken out of them. We are as much a part of India as any person from another state. WION: What is the difference of approach between the present government and the one run by Vajpayee Ji when it comes to Kashmir? Farooq Abdullah: Vajpayee ji was a different man. He fought my father, he was from RSS but he knew that if India has to move forward then it has to move forward with everyone. He fought RSS from inside asking them to change with time. He was strong and that is why his name was Atal. He could take decisions which no one could take. When the Kargil war took place, I went to meet Vajpayee with a General of 15th Corp. Pakistani soldiers were sitting in our bunkers. The commanders told me that they would win but lose a lot of people if the Air Force is not used. They argued that mountains are bare and the movement of soldiers is taking place at night. I saw the IAF Chief going out, but when I told him this, he said, "it needs to be done." Vajpayee called back the IAF chief. The Chief said that if we use the Air Force then it will escalate the war and all borders will open up. Vajpayee said that when Pakistanis walked miles insides out territory did they not think that it will open up the borders? He asked him to do whatever is necessary and use whatever he has. Musharraf had to run to Clinton. He lost the battle of Kashmir that day. He had to accept that it was them fighting in Kashmir and not the jihadis. Musharraf had to ask Clinton to tell India that they want to withdraw. WION: How do you remember Vajpayee? There were talks that you would become the Vice President of the country? Farooq Abdullah: That was not in my fate. He was a great man, he was sensitive and talked straight. He knew how to live life. WION: Did you share his love of food? Farooq Abdullah: Whenever he went abroad he would take people accompanying him to the best and choicest of the eating houses. He ran a coalition of 23 parties and it is not a joke. I don’t think that anyone can do it ever again. He ran it very smoothly. WION: Is the perception of terrorist vs Army discourse stalling the talks in Kashmir? Farooq Abdullah: When firing happens or pelting happens, what happens? Forces enter homes, things are broken. You antagonize people. This makes them feel that they have nowhere to go. You make enemies. WION: Forces are also getting attacked by stone pelters and people give cover to terrorists when operations are on? Farooq Abdullah: You cannot win people like this. Infiltration continues. One day the dam would burst. One day escalation between the two nations will become too big to handle. WION: It is not easy to talk to a country which perpetrated 26/11? Is it a hard choice? Farooq Abdullah: It is not a simple choice, it is a hard choice. It is neither a simple choice for Pakistan who has been telling their people for the past 70 years that Kashmir belongs to them. Can a Pakistani PM say that territory with India does not belong to them? Can an Indian PM say that let Pakistan keep the other part of Kashmir? Is it even possible? That is why it is a hard choice. WION: There are people within India who have grievances. Kashmiri Pandits have not be resettled Farooq Abdullah: There are Kashmiri Pandits in villages. There are a lot of factors. Are Kashmiri pandits willing to go back? They have settled in various parts of the country. When Gujral was the PM, we made a plan to get them back but Ganderbal tragedy happened. So, we need to get Pakistan on the table. WION: Is it possible to conduct free and fair elections in Kashmir? Farooq Abdullah: Elections need to be conducted. You cannot give in. I won my election but Anantnag election was stayed. Democracy needs to survive. WION: What was the reason behind it? Farooq Abdullah: You ask people. Do not withdraw from the election, that is my motto. Democratic institutions need to be strengthened. WION: How do you conduct elections when most of the political stakeholders cannot move around freely? Farooq Abdullah: Out of 1000, 10 will vote. These institutions need to be strengthened. WION: Kashmir hops from one election to another without democracy percolating down Farooq Abdullah: Why are you worried. It will percolate, you cannot give in. Democratic institutions cannot be killed. There are turbulent times but does not mean that turbulence will remain all the time. WION: Is 'Grand Alliance' a great idea? Farooq Abdullah: Opposition is required in a democracy. If you have a strong Opposition it can check the government. When I came to power in 1996 with a huge majority, a lot of people wanted to join my party. I would ask them not to do so because an Opposition was required. Even if the BJP wins the election, Opposition emerges in a bigger number, it will be good for the country. WION: Has Rahul Gandhi come of age? Farooq Abdullah: The Same question was asked of Rajiv Gandhi. People would say that how will a pilot run the country. People gain experience over time, he will also learn. PM Modi also learnt as CM. WION: A man was shot inside your residence in J&K. Do you think your life is in danger? Farooq Abdullah: I don’t know. I faced death. A man enter my house when I was not there, Omar was also not present. The matter must be probed. How could he enter from the gate without any damage to his vehicle? He drove all the way in and walked right to the front door of my house. He broke things and started to climb stairs to our bedrooms, it was strange. How did he have the knowledge of the house? Who is behind it? Was it a recce that something like this could be done in the future? This is when I have all the protection. How did he get in? Something is behind it and it must be probed properly. WION: What is the task of Farooq Abdullah in 2018-19? Farooq Abdullah: I will continue to work to unite the nation. I want to see an India where hunger does not exist.

Vajpayee ran coalition of 23 parties, I don’t think anyone can do it: Farooq Abdullah to WION

After a review meeting at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on Saturday to discuss the calamitous floods in Kerala, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an interim relief of &nbsp;Rs 500 crore against a demand of Rs 2,000 crore made by the State government.

This is apart from the Central assistance of &nbsp;Rs100 crore announced earlier.

Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those seriously injured in the floods, both taken from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

''The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance,'' Kerala Chief Minister &nbsp;Pinarayi Vijayan tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1030694295123058688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the meeting convened to assess the flood situation, Kerala CM informed Mod that the State has suffered a loss of Rs 19, 512. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In a meeting convened to assess the flood situation in the State, CM Pinarayi Vijayan informed Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the State has suffered a loss of ₹19,512 crore as per initial assessment. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6SSmzjfj7">pic.twitter.com/f6SSmzjfj7</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1030694289431359489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those seriously injured in the floods, both taken from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

After a review meeting at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi on Saturday to discuss the calamitous floods in Kerala, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an interim relief of Rs 500 crore against a demand of Rs 2,000 crore made by the State government. This is apart from the Central assistance of Rs100 crore announced earlier. Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those seriously injured in the floods, both taken from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. ''The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance,'' Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan tweeted. The Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of ₹500 crore. CM had requested an immediate assistance of ₹2000 crore. We express our thanks to Centre for the assistance. @PMOIndia @narendramodi — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 18, 2018 × In the meeting convened to assess the flood situation, Kerala CM informed Mod that the State has suffered a loss of Rs 19, 512. In a meeting convened to assess the flood situation in the State, CM Pinarayi Vijayan informed Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the State has suffered a loss of ₹19,512 crore as per initial assessment. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/f6SSmzjfj7 — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 18, 2018 ×

Kerala floods: Modi announces interim relief of Rs 500 crore against State's request of Rs 2000 crore

US&nbsp;technology giants plan to intensify lobbying efforts against stringent Indian data localisation requirements, which they say will undermine their growth ambitions in India, sources told.

US trade groups, representing companies such as Amazon, American Express and Microsoft, have opposed India's push to store data locally. That push comes amid rising global efforts to protect user data but is one that could hit planned investments by the firms in the Indian market, where the companies currently have limited data storage.

The issue could further undermine already strained economic relations between India and the United States.

Technology executives and trade groups have discussed approaching Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office to apprise him of their worries. Separately, the industry is considering pitching the issue as a trade concern, including at the India-US&nbsp;talks in September in New Delhi, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

Though a final decision hasn't been made, the deliberations come while the United States and India are locked in a dispute over US&nbsp;tariff increases and on the Indian policy of capping prices of medical devices, which hurts American pharmaceutical companies.

"This issue is important enough to be discussed at the India-US&nbsp;trade level," said Amba Kak, a global public policy adviser at the Internet company Mozilla Corp.

"Data localisation is not just a business concern, it potentially makes government surveillance easier, which is a worry."

Stricter localisation norms would help India get easier access to data when conducting investigations, but critics say it could lead to increased government demands for data access.

Technology firms worry the mandate would hurt their planned investments by raising costs related to setting up new local data centres.

Greater use of digital platforms in India for shopping or social networking have made it a lucrative market for technology companies, but a rising number of data breaches have pushed New Delhi to develop strong data protection rules.

Shamika Ravi, a member of Modi's economic advisory council, said data localisation was a global phenomenon and India wasn't an outlier.

"It's in the long-term strategic and economic interest," said Ravi, who is also a research director at Brookings India.

EXTENSIVE MEETINGS

The main government committee on data privacy last month proposed a draft law, recommending restrictions on data flows and proposing that all "critical personal data" should be processed only within the country. It would be left to the government to define what qualifies as such data.

Global companies are coming together to push back.

In a meeting last week organised by lobby group US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, executives from Facebook, Mastercard, Visa, American Express, PayPal, Amazon, Microsoft and others discussed plans to approach Indian lawmakers, including Indian parliamentary panels on information technology (IT) and finance, five sources said.

The industry also discussed approaching media and internet groups to explain why data localisation would be bad for India's booming IT, e-commerce and payments landscape, the sources said.

"People are fairly stressed and scared," said an executive working for a multinational technology firm.

The US-India lobby group said it was "nearly impossible" to implement "industry-specific regulations in our global data environment without the ripples being felt". It didn't comment on its recent meeting, but said it will continue facilitating policy discussions.

Mastercard, American Express and Amazon didn't respond to a request for comment, while Facebook, Microsoft, Visa and PayPal declined to comment.

The Indian bill, which was opened for public comments this week, will later go to parliament for approval.

US trade groups, representing companies such as Amazon, American Express and Microsoft, have opposed India's push to store data locally.

US technology giants plan to intensify lobbying efforts against stringent Indian data localisation requirements, which they say will undermine their growth ambitions in India, sources told. US trade groups, representing companies such as Amazon, American Express and Microsoft, have opposed India's push to store data locally. That push comes amid rising global efforts to protect user data but is one that could hit planned investments by the firms in the Indian market, where the companies currently have limited data storage. The issue could further undermine already strained economic relations between India and the United States. Technology executives and trade groups have discussed approaching Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office to apprise him of their worries. Separately, the industry is considering pitching the issue as a trade concern, including at the India-US talks in September in New Delhi, according to two sources familiar with the matter. Though a final decision hasn't been made, the deliberations come while the United States and India are locked in a dispute over US tariff increases and on the Indian policy of capping prices of medical devices, which hurts American pharmaceutical companies. "This issue is important enough to be discussed at the India-US trade level," said Amba Kak, a global public policy adviser at the Internet company Mozilla Corp. "Data localisation is not just a business concern, it potentially makes government surveillance easier, which is a worry." Stricter localisation norms would help India get easier access to data when conducting investigations, but critics say it could lead to increased government demands for data access. Technology firms worry the mandate would hurt their planned investments by raising costs related to setting up new local data centres. Greater use of digital platforms in India for shopping or social networking have made it a lucrative market for technology companies, but a rising number of data breaches have pushed New Delhi to develop strong data protection rules. Shamika Ravi, a member of Modi's economic advisory council, said data localisation was a global phenomenon and India wasn't an outlier. "It's in the long-term strategic and economic interest," said Ravi, who is also a research director at Brookings India. EXTENSIVE MEETINGS The main government committee on data privacy last month proposed a draft law, recommending restrictions on data flows and proposing that all "critical personal data" should be processed only within the country. It would be left to the government to define what qualifies as such data. Global companies are coming together to push back. In a meeting last week organised by lobby group US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, executives from Facebook, Mastercard, Visa, American Express, PayPal, Amazon, Microsoft and others discussed plans to approach Indian lawmakers, including Indian parliamentary panels on information technology (IT) and finance, five sources said. The industry also discussed approaching media and internet groups to explain why data localisation would be bad for India's booming IT, e-commerce and payments landscape, the sources said. "People are fairly stressed and scared," said an executive working for a multinational technology firm. The US-India lobby group said it was "nearly impossible" to implement "industry-specific regulations in our global data environment without the ripples being felt". It didn't comment on its recent meeting, but said it will continue facilitating policy discussions. Mastercard, American Express and Amazon didn't respond to a request for comment, while Facebook, Microsoft, Visa and PayPal declined to comment. The Indian bill, which was opened for public comments this week, will later go to parliament for approval.

US tech giants plan to fight India's data localisation plans

The Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA) Appellate Tribunal on Saturday released the attachment on flats owned by bona fide purchasers in the 'Kingfisher Towers', which had been attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya/ United Breweries Holding Limited (UBHL) case.

After the registration of an FIR against Mallya, M/s UBHL and others, the ED in 2016 registered a case against the same persons under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

Consequently. in June 2016, it attached properties allegedly belonging to Mallya/UBHL, including under-construction flats in 'Kingfisher Towers', Bengaluru.

Vivek Mathias and Kiran Majumdar Shaw, who were the Appellants before the Appellate Tribunal, had purchased some flats in the said 'Kingfisher Towers', way back in 2012 itself. However, the ED still attached these flats.

Further, no opportunity was given to these purchasers to present their case before the Adjudicating Authority, which is tasked with examining and confirming the ED's attachment orders.

Mathias and Shaw approached the Appellate Tribunal, by way of appeals filed through Advocate Arshdeep Singh, seeking to release from attachment the flats owned by them.

Before the Appellate Tribunal, it was alleged by the ED that certain persons, including Mathias and Shaw, who were friends of Mallya, had helped him in money-laundering by purchasing flats in 'Kingfisher Towers'.

The Appellants, appearing through Advocate Singh, contended that there cannot be any connection between the purchase of these flats and the alleged money-laundering committed by the fugitive liquor baron since the purchase transaction was completed three years before the registration of the FIR.

Additionally, that all the money used to purchase the flats was from documented, personal funds of the purchasers and all funds had been remitted through normal banking channels.

The Appellate Tribunal gave the Appellants a clean chit and held that there was no link whatsoever between the Appellants and the flats purchased by them with Mallya and his alleged acts of money-laundering.

The Tribunal further clarified the law on rights on bona fide purchasers who acquire any property prior to attachment imposed on the same under the PMLA.

This decision is a landmark for bona fide purchasers who get stuck in attachments by the ED.&nbsp

The ED in 2016 registered a case against the same persons under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

The Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA) Appellate Tribunal on Saturday released the attachment on flats owned by bona fide purchasers in the 'Kingfisher Towers', which had been attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya/ United Breweries Holding Limited (UBHL) case. After the registration of an FIR against Mallya, M/s UBHL and others, the ED in 2016 registered a case against the same persons under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. Consequently. in June 2016, it attached properties allegedly belonging to Mallya/UBHL, including under-construction flats in 'Kingfisher Towers', Bengaluru. Vivek Mathias and Kiran Majumdar Shaw, who were the Appellants before the Appellate Tribunal, had purchased some flats in the said 'Kingfisher Towers', way back in 2012 itself. However, the ED still attached these flats. Further, no opportunity was given to these purchasers to present their case before the Adjudicating Authority, which is tasked with examining and confirming the ED's attachment orders. Mathias and Shaw approached the Appellate Tribunal, by way of appeals filed through Advocate Arshdeep Singh, seeking to release from attachment the flats owned by them. Before the Appellate Tribunal, it was alleged by the ED that certain persons, including Mathias and Shaw, who were friends of Mallya, had helped him in money-laundering by purchasing flats in 'Kingfisher Towers'. The Appellants, appearing through Advocate Singh, contended that there cannot be any connection between the purchase of these flats and the alleged money-laundering committed by the fugitive liquor baron since the purchase transaction was completed three years before the registration of the FIR. Additionally, that all the money used to purchase the flats was from documented, personal funds of the purchasers and all funds had been remitted through normal banking channels. The Appellate Tribunal gave the Appellants a clean chit and held that there was no link whatsoever between the Appellants and the flats purchased by them with Mallya and his alleged acts of money-laundering. The Tribunal further clarified the law on rights on bona fide purchasers who acquire any property prior to attachment imposed on the same under the PMLA. This decision is a landmark for bona fide purchasers who get stuck in attachments by the ED.

PMLA Appellate Tribunal releases attachment on purchasers in 'Kingfisher Towers'

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news