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Over 300 varieties of mangoes were on display at the mango festival held in Indian city of Dehradun.

Mango festival held in India: Over 300 varieties of mangoes at the festival

India’s first poet’s meet for the transgender community – ‘Transgender Poet’s Meet’ was held at the Sahitya Akademi today. This is the first such government-sponsored event organised by Sahitya Akademi, which is a part of the Union Ministry of Culture.&nbsp

The two and a half hour event was chaired by India’s first college principal Manabi Bandyapadhyay, who shared a lot of poems that she had written. This apart, six other transgender poets – Rani Majumdar, Aruna Nath, Anjali Mandal, Debdutta Biswas and Debojyoti Bhattacharya participated in the meet. Each of the poets was given close to 15 minutes to recite their poetry. In addition to this, the event also had two guest transgender poets, who also recited their poem.

Speaking at the occasion she said, “Such poet’s meet will only encourage the transgender community. We all have such talents but do not get the opportunity that we deserve. I’m thankful that Sahitya Akademi has come forward in support of the transgender community.”&nbsp

In the wake of the judgement on Section 377 being reserved today by the Supreme Court, Bandhyapadhyay said that she is hopeful of a positive outcome. “The country hugely respects us and thus they have recognised us a third gender. We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will pass a judgement in our favour.”

While Sahitya Akademi has many centres across the country, the Kolkata branch was the first one to hold a one of its kind and first ever Transgender Poet’s meet in Kolkata. The officer-in-charge, Eastern Region, Sahitya Akademi, Mihir Sahu said, “We have hosted several women empowerment sessions and events in the past. But, when Manabi Bandyapadhyay came to me saying that she wanted us to host a transgender poet’s meet, I could not say a no. In fact, a lot of people from Delhi are calling me and congratulating me for taking this step forward.&nbsp

The two and a half hour event was chaired by India’s first college principal Manabi Bandyapadhyay, who shared a lot of poems that she had written

India’s first poet’s meet for the transgender community – ‘Transgender Poet’s Meet’ was held at the Sahitya Akademi today. This is the first such government-sponsored event organised by Sahitya Akademi, which is a part of the Union Ministry of Culture. The two and a half hour event was chaired by India’s first college principal Manabi Bandyapadhyay, who shared a lot of poems that she had written. This apart, six other transgender poets – Rani Majumdar, Aruna Nath, Anjali Mandal, Debdutta Biswas and Debojyoti Bhattacharya participated in the meet. Each of the poets was given close to 15 minutes to recite their poetry. In addition to this, the event also had two guest transgender poets, who also recited their poem. Speaking at the occasion she said, “Such poet’s meet will only encourage the transgender community. We all have such talents but do not get the opportunity that we deserve. I’m thankful that Sahitya Akademi has come forward in support of the transgender community.” In the wake of the judgement on Section 377 being reserved today by the Supreme Court, Bandhyapadhyay said that she is hopeful of a positive outcome. “The country hugely respects us and thus they have recognised us a third gender. We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will pass a judgement in our favour.” While Sahitya Akademi has many centres across the country, the Kolkata branch was the first one to hold a one of its kind and first ever Transgender Poet’s meet in Kolkata. The officer-in-charge, Eastern Region, Sahitya Akademi, Mihir Sahu said, “We have hosted several women empowerment sessions and events in the past. But, when Manabi Bandyapadhyay came to me saying that she wanted us to host a transgender poet’s meet, I could not say a no. In fact, a lot of people from Delhi are calling me and congratulating me for taking this step forward.

India's first transgender poet's meet held in Kolkata

Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday.

He is on&nbspa four-day visit to India.

During his stay, Balakrishnan will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Sushma Swaraj.

The Singapore Minister will all pay a visit to Guwahati to meet Assam Chief Minister Sarbanada Sonowal on Wednesday.

During his stay, Balakrishnan will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Sushma Swaraj

Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday. He is on&nbspa four-day visit to India. During his stay, Balakrishnan will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Sushma Swaraj. The Singapore Minister will all pay a visit to Guwahati to meet Assam Chief Minister Sarbanada Sonowal on Wednesday.

Singapore External Affairs Minister on a four-day visit to India

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday constituted Congress Working Committee (CWC), &nbsp;party's highest decision-making body, with 51 new and old members.

The new CWC will have 23 members, 18 permanent invitees and 10 special invitees.&nbsp;

This the first CWC formed by the Congress chief after assuming charge of the party.

The prominent names missing from the list are former powerful organisation Secretary Janardhan Dewedi, Former General Secretary Digvijay Singh, Captain Satish Sharma sending a clear signal that dissent in public will not be tolerated.&nbsp;

Party veterans Digvijay Singh, Janardan Dwivedi, Kamal Nath, Sushilkumar Shinde, Mohan Prakash, C P Joshi have been dropped from CWC, while Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, Motilal Vora, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, AK Antony, Ahmed Patel and Ambika Soni continue to hold their membership.

The list also excludes Bhupinder Singh Hudda.&nbsp;

Former chief ministers Ashok Gehlot, Oommen Chandy, Tarun Gogoi, Siddharamaiah and Harish Rawat have also found a place in the new CWC.&nbsp;

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In an attempt to give impetus to Congress' crumbling hold on state-level politics across India, the party president has mended the old Congress ways and okayed the induction of state incharges as permanent invitees of the CWC. &nbsp;

The reconstituted Congress Working Committee&nbsp;is a blend of young and old leaders.

The list includes all young leaders who were appointed as the state in charges like Deepak Babaria, Jitendra Singh, Gaurav Gogoi Randeep Surjewalan and Anugrah Narayan Singh.&nbsp;

Though old guards like Motilal Vora and Ahmad Patel have been accommodated a line has been drawn and new Congress leadership has ushered.&nbsp;

Congress leaders Sheila Dikshit, P Chidambaram, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Balasaheb Thorat and Tariq Hameed Karra will be among the permanent invitees.&nbsp;

The CWC, which acts as an advisory panel on all key decisions of the party, was not in place since the plenary session in March.

Rahul Gandhi constituted Congress Working Committee with a blend of young and old, convenes the first meeting on July 22.

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday constituted Congress Working Committee (CWC), party's highest decision-making body, with 51 new and old members. The new CWC will have 23 members, 18 permanent invitees and 10 special invitees. This the first CWC formed by the Congress chief after assuming charge of the party. The prominent names missing from the list are former powerful organisation Secretary Janardhan Dewedi, Former General Secretary Digvijay Singh, Captain Satish Sharma sending a clear signal that dissent in public will not be tolerated. Party veterans Digvijay Singh, Janardan Dwivedi, Kamal Nath, Sushilkumar Shinde, Mohan Prakash, C P Joshi have been dropped from CWC, while Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, Motilal Vora, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, AK Antony, Ahmed Patel and Ambika Soni continue to hold their membership. The list also excludes Bhupinder Singh Hudda. Former chief ministers Ashok Gehlot, Oommen Chandy, Tarun Gogoi, Siddharamaiah and Harish Rawat have also found a place in the new CWC. INC COMMUNIQUE Announcement of the constitution of the Congress Working Committee and the Permanent and Special invitees to the CWC. pic.twitter.com/x9uBsEOZa7 — Congress (@INCIndia) July 17, 2018 × In an attempt to give impetus to Congress' crumbling hold on state-level politics across India, the party president has mended the old Congress ways and okayed the induction of state incharges as permanent invitees of the CWC. The reconstituted Congress Working Committee is a blend of young and old leaders. The list includes all young leaders who were appointed as the state in charges like Deepak Babaria, Jitendra Singh, Gaurav Gogoi Randeep Surjewalan and Anugrah Narayan Singh. Though old guards like Motilal Vora and Ahmad Patel have been accommodated a line has been drawn and new Congress leadership has ushered. Congress leaders Sheila Dikshit, P Chidambaram, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Balasaheb Thorat and Tariq Hameed Karra will be among the permanent invitees. The CWC, which acts as an advisory panel on all key decisions of the party, was not in place since the plenary session in March.

Rahul Gandhi drops Digvijay Singh, Kamal Nath and Janardan Dwivedi from CWC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today his government is working to double farmers' income by 2022, prompting the Trinamool Congress to 
Dub it an old but "yet-to-be fulfilled" promise made years ago by the BJP.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party also sought to know how the prime minister is going to fulfil the promise, even as it claimed that the income of farmers in West Bengal has more than tripled in the past seven years under the TMC rule.

Addressing a 'Kisan Kalyan' rally in Midnapore, Modi said: "My government is your government. It is a government of farmers. Our government worked for farmers...From quality seeds to market. It is important to have warehouse to save the produce."

"The farmers are the soul of India. A country can't develop fully until and unless there is development of farmers," he said.

Exhorting the TMC government to work for farmers, Modi said: "I hope the West Bengal government will take the required steps to create infrastructure for farmers. We want our farmers to use the latest technology."

On the plight of potato farmers in Bengal, he said the state government should build more warehouses so that crops don't go waste.

Referring to TMC posters with photographs of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee put up near the rally venue, Modi said: "I am thankful to Mamata didi. Even the TMC cannot deny our achievements. They have put up posters of didi with folded hands welcoming the prime minister."

But the TMC hit back saying that similar signages can be seen across the state for the party's July 21 'Shahid Diwas' rally. "He is obviously not well informed," it said.

The TMC also alleged that some of these posters and banners were defaced and pulled down by BJP workers.

Modi said the previous governments did not work for the development of farmers. Several commissions were set up to look into the issue of increasing MSPs but nothing happened.

Speaking about the increase in MSPs for paddy and other Kharif crops, he said the central government increased the price per quintal of jute, which would help the growers in Bengal.

Referring to Modi's statement that his government is working to double farmers' income by 2022, the TMC said it was a promise made many years ago in BJP's manifesto but is "yet-to-be fulfilled".

"May we now ask the BJP leader how he plans to double farmers' income? It was a promise made many years ago in his party's manifesto, but still not delivered", a joint statement issued by TMC general secretary Partha Chatterjee and its Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien said.

They claimed that the prime minister's meeting today was attended mostly by people from neighbouring Jharkhand and Odisha, and even vehicles from Patna were spotted.

"There were hardly any locals or farmers. There was a lot of corporate money spent on this political meeting but what has been the net result? How have the farmers benefited," they asked.

Claiming that farmers' income in the state has more than tripled in the past seven years, they said that in 2011 - when the TMC government came to power - it was Rs 91,000 and last year it went up to Rs 2,90,000.

Modi said the previous governments did not work for the development of farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today his government is working to double farmers' income by 2022, prompting the Trinamool Congress to Dub it an old but "yet-to-be fulfilled" promise made years ago by the BJP. The Mamata Banerjee-led party also sought to know how the prime minister is going to fulfil the promise, even as it claimed that the income of farmers in West Bengal has more than tripled in the past seven years under the TMC rule. Addressing a 'Kisan Kalyan' rally in Midnapore, Modi said: "My government is your government. It is a government of farmers. Our government worked for farmers...From quality seeds to market. It is important to have warehouse to save the produce." "The farmers are the soul of India. A country can't develop fully until and unless there is development of farmers," he said. Exhorting the TMC government to work for farmers, Modi said: "I hope the West Bengal government will take the required steps to create infrastructure for farmers. We want our farmers to use the latest technology." On the plight of potato farmers in Bengal, he said the state government should build more warehouses so that crops don't go waste. Referring to TMC posters with photographs of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee put up near the rally venue, Modi said: "I am thankful to Mamata didi. Even the TMC cannot deny our achievements. They have put up posters of didi with folded hands welcoming the prime minister." But the TMC hit back saying that similar signages can be seen across the state for the party's July 21 'Shahid Diwas' rally. "He is obviously not well informed," it said. The TMC also alleged that some of these posters and banners were defaced and pulled down by BJP workers. Modi said the previous governments did not work for the development of farmers. Several commissions were set up to look into the issue of increasing MSPs but nothing happened. Speaking about the increase in MSPs for paddy and other Kharif crops, he said the central government increased the price per quintal of jute, which would help the growers in Bengal. Referring to Modi's statement that his government is working to double farmers' income by 2022, the TMC said it was a promise made many years ago in BJP's manifesto but is "yet-to-be fulfilled". "May we now ask the BJP leader how he plans to double farmers' income? It was a promise made many years ago in his party's manifesto, but still not delivered", a joint statement issued by TMC general secretary Partha Chatterjee and its Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien said. They claimed that the prime minister's meeting today was attended mostly by people from neighbouring Jharkhand and Odisha, and even vehicles from Patna were spotted. "There were hardly any locals or farmers. There was a lot of corporate money spent on this political meeting but what has been the net result? How have the farmers benefited," they asked. Claiming that farmers' income in the state has more than tripled in the past seven years, they said that in 2011 - when the TMC government came to power - it was Rs 91,000 and last year it went up to Rs 2,90,000.

PM Modi says NDA working to double farmers' income; TMC calls it old promise

The Centre today opposed in the Supreme Court a PIL for barring candidates from contesting from than one constituency in a general election, saying that the issue of electoral reforms would need legislative action and the plea failed to establish that fundamental rights of citizens were being infringed upon in any way.

In an affidavit, the central government said that the writ petition "maybe dismissed" as it has failed to show "any infringement" of any fundamental or constitutional rights of the people at large.

"It is prayed that amending section 33 (7) of the Representative of Peoples Act may cause the infringement of the rights of the candidates contesting elections as well as curtails choice of candidates to the polity," the affidavit filed by K K Saxena, Deputy Secretary with the Ministry of Law and Justice, said.

The affidavit, which would be considered by a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, said that the petition filed by the BJP leader Ashwani Kumar Upadhyay failed to demonstrate any violation of fundamental rights.&nbsp;

The affidavit said that a person has been allowed under the Act to contest election from two constituencies simultaneously and the law has to be amended for disallowing the same.

"It is humbly submitted that the answering respondent is conscious of the need for electoral reforms in our country, however, electoral reforms is a complex, continuous, long-drawn and comprehensive process...," it said, adding that, relevant laws would be made from time to time.&nbsp;

The objective of curtailing the right of a candidate to stand for election from two seats would require a legislative amendment, the affidavit said and sought dismissal of the PIL.

The Election Commission of India (ECI), in its affidavit in December last year, had quoted its 2004 proposals on electoral reforms and said that the law should be amended to ensure that a person cannot contest from more than one seat.

The poll panel had also said that its proposal to bar candidates from contesting from more than one seat was rejected by a parliamentary standing committee way back in 1998, which had taken note of the view of an all-party meeting favouring to retain the provision.

Upadhyay has sought directions to the authorities to take appropriate steps to discourage independent candidates from contesting parliamentary and state Assembly elections as suggested by the National Commission to

Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC).

He has said the question of independent candidates is often connected with the issue of fragmented voting and instability in the electoral system and referred to the Law Commission's 170th report which said the time is now ripe for debarring independent candidates from contesting Lok Sabha elections.

"Similarly, the NCRWC has recommended discouragement of independent candidates, who are often dummy candidates or defectors from their party or those denied party tickets," the petition has said.

The affidavit said that a person has been allowed under the Act to contest election from two constituencies simultaneously.

The Centre today opposed in the Supreme Court a PIL for barring candidates from contesting from than one constituency in a general election, saying that the issue of electoral reforms would need legislative action and the plea failed to establish that fundamental rights of citizens were being infringed upon in any way. In an affidavit, the central government said that the writ petition "maybe dismissed" as it has failed to show "any infringement" of any fundamental or constitutional rights of the people at large. "It is prayed that amending section 33 (7) of the Representative of Peoples Act may cause the infringement of the rights of the candidates contesting elections as well as curtails choice of candidates to the polity," the affidavit filed by K K Saxena, Deputy Secretary with the Ministry of Law and Justice, said. The affidavit, which would be considered by a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, said that the petition filed by the BJP leader Ashwani Kumar Upadhyay failed to demonstrate any violation of fundamental rights. The affidavit said that a person has been allowed under the Act to contest election from two constituencies simultaneously and the law has to be amended for disallowing the same. "It is humbly submitted that the answering respondent is conscious of the need for electoral reforms in our country, however, electoral reforms is a complex, continuous, long-drawn and comprehensive process...," it said, adding that, relevant laws would be made from time to time. The objective of curtailing the right of a candidate to stand for election from two seats would require a legislative amendment, the affidavit said and sought dismissal of the PIL. The Election Commission of India (ECI), in its affidavit in December last year, had quoted its 2004 proposals on electoral reforms and said that the law should be amended to ensure that a person cannot contest from more than one seat. The poll panel had also said that its proposal to bar candidates from contesting from more than one seat was rejected by a parliamentary standing committee way back in 1998, which had taken note of the view of an all-party meeting favouring to retain the provision. Upadhyay has sought directions to the authorities to take appropriate steps to discourage independent candidates from contesting parliamentary and state Assembly elections as suggested by the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC). He has said the question of independent candidates is often connected with the issue of fragmented voting and instability in the electoral system and referred to the Law Commission's 170th report which said the time is now ripe for debarring independent candidates from contesting Lok Sabha elections. "Similarly, the NCRWC has recommended discouragement of independent candidates, who are often dummy candidates or defectors from their party or those denied party tickets," the petition has said.

Centre opposes PIL to bar candidates from contesting from more than one seat

Ahead of next year's parliamentary elections, the Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP today announced a new team of office-bearers which included 11 vice-presidents, three general secretaries and 10 state secretaries

The new team also include one state chief spokesperson, 10 state spokespersons, five publicity, additional publicity and press secretaries and two office secretaries, the party said in a statement here.

BJP state president Ravinder Riana nominated the new team in consultation with BJP national vice-president and J&K 'Prabhari' (in-charge) Avinash Rai Khanna, state general secretary (organisation) Ashok Kaul and other senior leaders.

Those nominated as vice presidents of the party included Harinder Gupta, Pawan Khajuria, Arun Gupta, Poornima Sharma, Girdhari Lal Raina, Tsering Gonboo (Leh), Davinder Manyal, Parmod Kapahi, Sofi Yousuf and Rajeev Charak.

According to the statement, Narinder Singh, Sunil Sharma and Yudhvir Sethi have been nominated as state general secretaries, while Rajinder Sharma, Sunil Gupta (Poonch), Aseem Gupta, Anil Parihar (Kishtwar), Sanjay Baru, Veenu Khanna, Ragunandan Singh Babloo (Kathua), Praduman Singh, Ajay Gupta (Pargal) and Suresh Ajay Magotra have been nominated as state secretaries.

Sunil Sethi has been retained as state chief spokesperson and chairman of recently constituted state disciplinary committee of the party.

Those nominated as state spokespersons include Brig (retd) Anil Gupta, Priya Sethi, R S Pathania, S S Bijral, Ishtaq Wani, Balbir Ram Rattan, Khalid Jahangir, Altaf Thakur, Ashok Khajuria (refugee cell) and Tahir Choudhary, the statement said.

Jaidev Rajwal will continue to look after the IT and social media, it said.

Tilak Raj Gupta was nominated as state office secretary and Suresh Sharma as additional office secretary, the statement said, adding that Naresh Dogra is appointed as publicity secretary, Surinder Choudhary and Arun Chhibber as additional publicity secretaries, Pardeep Mahotra as state press secretary and Rakesh Mahajan as additional press secretary.

Suraj Singh was nominated as media secretary and Jugal Gupta as additional media secretary, it said.

Chander Mohan Gupta is state treasurer and Arvind Gupta is additional state treasurer, while Vikas Choudhary has been nominated as state president 'Yuva Morcha' (youth wing) and Rajni Sethi as state president 'Mahila Morcha' (women wing), the statement said.

Rajinder Singh Chib will be state president 'Kissan Morcha' (farmers wing), Jagdish Bhagat as state president Scheduled Caste wing, Sadiq Khan as state president minority wing, Ghulam Ali Khatana as state President Scheduled Tribe, Rashpal Verma as state president Other Backward Class wing, the statement said.

Sanjay Khanna has been nominated as protocol secretary, it said.&nbsp

BJP state president Ravinder Riana nominated the new team.

Ahead of next year's parliamentary elections, the Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP today announced a new team of office-bearers which included 11 vice-presidents, three general secretaries and 10 state secretaries The new team also include one state chief spokesperson, 10 state spokespersons, five publicity, additional publicity and press secretaries and two office secretaries, the party said in a statement here. BJP state president Ravinder Riana nominated the new team in consultation with BJP national vice-president and J&K 'Prabhari' (in-charge) Avinash Rai Khanna, state general secretary (organisation) Ashok Kaul and other senior leaders. Those nominated as vice presidents of the party included Harinder Gupta, Pawan Khajuria, Arun Gupta, Poornima Sharma, Girdhari Lal Raina, Tsering Gonboo (Leh), Davinder Manyal, Parmod Kapahi, Sofi Yousuf and Rajeev Charak. According to the statement, Narinder Singh, Sunil Sharma and Yudhvir Sethi have been nominated as state general secretaries, while Rajinder Sharma, Sunil Gupta (Poonch), Aseem Gupta, Anil Parihar (Kishtwar), Sanjay Baru, Veenu Khanna, Ragunandan Singh Babloo (Kathua), Praduman Singh, Ajay Gupta (Pargal) and Suresh Ajay Magotra have been nominated as state secretaries. Sunil Sethi has been retained as state chief spokesperson and chairman of recently constituted state disciplinary committee of the party. Those nominated as state spokespersons include Brig (retd) Anil Gupta, Priya Sethi, R S Pathania, S S Bijral, Ishtaq Wani, Balbir Ram Rattan, Khalid Jahangir, Altaf Thakur, Ashok Khajuria (refugee cell) and Tahir Choudhary, the statement said. Jaidev Rajwal will continue to look after the IT and social media, it said. Tilak Raj Gupta was nominated as state office secretary and Suresh Sharma as additional office secretary, the statement said, adding that Naresh Dogra is appointed as publicity secretary, Surinder Choudhary and Arun Chhibber as additional publicity secretaries, Pardeep Mahotra as state press secretary and Rakesh Mahajan as additional press secretary. Suraj Singh was nominated as media secretary and Jugal Gupta as additional media secretary, it said. Chander Mohan Gupta is state treasurer and Arvind Gupta is additional state treasurer, while Vikas Choudhary has been nominated as state president 'Yuva Morcha' (youth wing) and Rajni Sethi as state president 'Mahila Morcha' (women wing), the statement said. Rajinder Singh Chib will be state president 'Kissan Morcha' (farmers wing), Jagdish Bhagat as state president Scheduled Caste wing, Sadiq Khan as state president minority wing, Ghulam Ali Khatana as state President Scheduled Tribe, Rashpal Verma as state president Other Backward Class wing, the statement said. Sanjay Khanna has been nominated as protocol secretary, it said.

Jammu and Kashmir: BJP constitutes new team ahead of Lok Sabha polls

Opposition parties today decided to move forward with consensus for filling the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post and asked the Congress, the TMC and the Samajwadi Party to come out with a "suitable candidate" acceptable to all.

During a meeting in Parliament, opposition leaders decided they should unitedly move forward in fielding a joint candidate for the post that fell vacant after P J Kurien retired on July 1, but no names were discussed, sources said.

Those present at the meeting included leaders from the Congress, NCP, TMC, BSP, SP, RJD, DMK, CPI(M), CPI, JD(S), RSP, IUML and KC-M, among others.

The entire opposition agreed that there should be a consensus candidate and the same should have acceptance among all parties and not just from any one party, they said.

Leaders of the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which are the largest opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha should sit together and find a "suitable candidate", the sources said.

TMC leader Sukhendu Sekhar Roy made it clear at the meeting that his party will not field any candidate for the post and will support any joint opposition candidate decided through consensus. Roy's name was among the probables for the post.

The name of Akali leader Naresh Gujral is doing the rounds for the post from the ruling NDA side, though no decision has yet been taken on his name.&nbsp

Though the post of deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha goes to the opposition, the tradition has not been followed for some time now as both the previous deputy chairmen P J Kurien and K Rehman Khan were from the then ruling party at the time of their election.

ing a meeting in Parliament, opposition leaders decided they should unitedly move forward in fielding a joint candidate for the post that fell vacant.

Opposition parties today decided to move forward with consensus for filling the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post and asked the Congress, the TMC and the Samajwadi Party to come out with a "suitable candidate" acceptable to all. During a meeting in Parliament, opposition leaders decided they should unitedly move forward in fielding a joint candidate for the post that fell vacant after P J Kurien retired on July 1, but no names were discussed, sources said. Those present at the meeting included leaders from the Congress, NCP, TMC, BSP, SP, RJD, DMK, CPI(M), CPI, JD(S), RSP, IUML and KC-M, among others. The entire opposition agreed that there should be a consensus candidate and the same should have acceptance among all parties and not just from any one party, they said. Leaders of the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which are the largest opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha should sit together and find a "suitable candidate", the sources said. TMC leader Sukhendu Sekhar Roy made it clear at the meeting that his party will not field any candidate for the post and will support any joint opposition candidate decided through consensus. Roy's name was among the probables for the post. The name of Akali leader Naresh Gujral is doing the rounds for the post from the ruling NDA side, though no decision has yet been taken on his name. Though the post of deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha goes to the opposition, the tradition has not been followed for some time now as both the previous deputy chairmen P J Kurien and K Rehman Khan were from the then ruling party at the time of their election.

Opposition parties to move forward for filling Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post

China has set up an unmanned automatic weather observation station in Tibet near Arunachal Pradesh border to provide meteorological support to its military and assist operations of aircraft and missiles in case of "regional live-fire conflicts", a media report said today.

The station in Yumai township under Lhunze county of Shannan Prefecture in Tibet will eliminate a blind area of meteorological services, state-run Global Times reported.

It will also provide strong meteorological support for national defence and further promote border development as well as military-civilian integration, according to a statement by the Tibet weather bureau.

"The station can observe six factors, including air temperature, air pressure, wind speed, wind direction, humidity and precipitation, with more accuracy than before," Tashi Norbu, a technician in charge of the station, was quoted as saying by the daily.

"Yumai is at the border. The station could provide data to help with transportation and communication in national defence. It could also offer support during regional live-fire conflicts," Tashi said.

Regional weather is an important factor that could influence the take-off and landing of aircraft and the launch of missiles during a battle, Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times.

The small weather observation station could provide such information, Song said.

Grasping accurate weather information could help seize good opportunities in the battles, Song added.

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China covered 3488 kms which includes Arunachal Pradesh, claimed by China as part of southern Tibet.

With nine households and 32 residents, Yumai is China's smallest township in terms of population.

Yumai is located in the southern foothills of the Himalayas and affected by the monsoon climate of the Indian Ocean.

"We are now receiving accurate information sent by meteorological departments every day. The station is necessary as it fills the gaps in meteorological and hydrological information, which could support our development," Dawa, the secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China's Yumai committee, told the daily, noting that the station would help a lot in local pasture and road construction.

The only road linking Yumai and the outside world has been under construction since 2017. More weather stations will be set up when the road is completed, Dawa said.

The construction of the station began in early 2018. However, due to bad weather in the area, the construction could be completed in June. The first weather data was transmitted from the station on June 22, the report said.

Regional weather is an important factor that could influence the take-off and landing of aircraft and the launch of missiles during a battle, Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times

China has set up an unmanned automatic weather observation station in Tibet near Arunachal Pradesh border to provide meteorological support to its military and assist operations of aircraft and missiles in case of "regional live-fire conflicts", a media report said today. The station in Yumai township under Lhunze county of Shannan Prefecture in Tibet will eliminate a blind area of meteorological services, state-run Global Times reported. It will also provide strong meteorological support for national defence and further promote border development as well as military-civilian integration, according to a statement by the Tibet weather bureau. "The station can observe six factors, including air temperature, air pressure, wind speed, wind direction, humidity and precipitation, with more accuracy than before," Tashi Norbu, a technician in charge of the station, was quoted as saying by the daily. "Yumai is at the border. The station could provide data to help with transportation and communication in national defence. It could also offer support during regional live-fire conflicts," Tashi said. Regional weather is an important factor that could influence the take-off and landing of aircraft and the launch of missiles during a battle, Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times. The small weather observation station could provide such information, Song said. Grasping accurate weather information could help seize good opportunities in the battles, Song added. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China covered 3488 kms which includes Arunachal Pradesh, claimed by China as part of southern Tibet. With nine households and 32 residents, Yumai is China's smallest township in terms of population. Yumai is located in the southern foothills of the Himalayas and affected by the monsoon climate of the Indian Ocean. "We are now receiving accurate information sent by meteorological departments every day. The station is necessary as it fills the gaps in meteorological and hydrological information, which could support our development," Dawa, the secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China's Yumai committee, told the daily, noting that the station would help a lot in local pasture and road construction. The only road linking Yumai and the outside world has been under construction since 2017. More weather stations will be set up when the road is completed, Dawa said. The construction of the station began in early 2018. However, due to bad weather in the area, the construction could be completed in June. The first weather data was transmitted from the station on June 22, the report said.

China set up unmanned weather station in Tibet near India border

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trump-sides-with-putin-says-no-reason-to-believe-russia-meddled-in-us-election-152249">Trump sides with Putin, says no reason to believe Russia meddled in US election</a>

Standing side by side with Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump refused on Monday to blame the Russian leader for meddling in the 2016 US election, casting doubt on the findings of his own intelligence agencies and sparking a storm of criticism at home.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-russia-ties-should-not-be-held-hostage-to-mueller-probe-152234">Putin: US-Russia ties should not be held hostage to Mueller probe</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday described the probe by Special Counsel Robert Mueller into Moscow's election meddling as "political games" that should not be permitted to interfere with US-Russia relations.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/elon-musks-latest-outburst-raises-doubts-on-leadership-152248">Is Elon Musk unstable? Question is asked after recent outbursts</a>

Elon Musk has been receiving a lot of heat after his ongoing outbursts on social media have come under scrutiny following the latest one involving a British Thai cave rescuer.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/soon-pay-heavy-fine-for-drinking-in-public-goa-chief-minister-152245">Goa to soon impose </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/soon-pay-heavy-fine-for-drinking-in-public-goa-chief-minister-152245">heavy</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/soon-pay-heavy-fine-for-drinking-in-public-goa-chief-minister-152245"> fine on drinking in public: Chief Minister</a>

Goa government has cracked down on drinking in public, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday announced that the government would soon issue a notification on imposing a heavy fine on drinking alcohol in public.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jadhav-case-pakistan-to-file-counter-memorial-today-152246">Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Pakistan to file counter-memorial today</a>

Pakistan will file its second counter-memorial in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Tuesday, on the conviction of retired Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism.

Trump sides with Putin, says no reason to believe Russia meddled in US election Standing side by side with Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump refused on Monday to blame the Russian leader for meddling in the 2016 US election, casting doubt on the findings of his own intelligence agencies and sparking a storm of criticism at home. Putin: US-Russia ties should not be held hostage to Mueller probe Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday described the probe by Special Counsel Robert Mueller into Moscow's election meddling as "political games" that should not be permitted to interfere with US-Russia relations. Is Elon Musk unstable? Question is asked after recent outbursts Elon Musk has been receiving a lot of heat after his ongoing outbursts on social media have come under scrutiny following the latest one involving a British Thai cave rescuer. Goa to soon impose heavy fine on drinking in public: Chief Minister Goa government has cracked down on drinking in public, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday announced that the government would soon issue a notification on imposing a heavy fine on drinking alcohol in public. Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Pakistan to file counter-memorial today Pakistan will file its second counter-memorial in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Tuesday, on the conviction of retired Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The BJP on Tuesday described Congress president Rahul Gandhi's tweet that he stands with the last person in line as a "confession" of his reported remarks that his party is for Muslims.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told reporters that Gandhi has not denied the comments, seized by the saffron party to accuse him of Muslim appeasement, and claimed that the Congress leader is in competition with AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi to "usurp" the legacy of Pakistan founder M A Jinnah.

"He (Gandhi) has still not denied it. We could not see a negation of what Rahul Gandhi has said. It is a confession. He has clearly accepted it through his tweet that the Congress is a party for Muslims," Patra said.

The tweet has confused rather than clarified, he told reporters.

Patra was reacting after Gandhi tweeted that he stands with the persecuted and the last person in the line", breaking his silence on the controversy following a remark on the Congress being a "party for Muslims" attributed to him.

The BJP leader claimed that the Congress chose to send out a message as part of its "deliberate conspiracy" and leaked the information about Gandhi's meeting with Muslim intellectuals.

While Congress leaders claimed that their party would send a notice to the Urdu paper which first carried the report, they never did so and the party's minority department's head Nadeem Javed asserted in an interview to the same daily that Gandhi had indeed made those comments, Patra said.

He also referred to Owaisi's alleged comments over lack of representation of Muslims in the Army and said even an institution like this has become a matter of the AIMIM leader's divisive agenda. He said Congress leader Veerappa Moily had also spoken on similar lines.

There is a sense of competition between Rahul Gandhi and Owaisi as to who would usurp the ideology of Jinnah, he alleged. An attempt to carry out a religious census of Army was made during the UPA, he said.

"Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Owaisi have been trying to divide the country with their 'Jinnahwadi' ideology but it will not succeed," he said.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi over his tweet that he seeks out those in pain and embrace them and loves all living beings, and that he is the Congress, Patra said it was like the statement that 'Indira is India and India is Indira'.

The Congress only cheated the last man in the line during its rule of many decades, he said, adding that it is Deen Dayal Upadhyay, a key BJP ideologue who spoke about 'antodyaya', the rise of the last man in the line.

The Modi government with its vision of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' has been working in line with this ideology and benefitting all Indians with its development measures, he said.

The BJP leader claimed that the Congress chose to send out a message as part of its "deliberate conspiracy" and leaked the information about Gandhi's meeting with Muslim intellectuals

The BJP on Tuesday described Congress president Rahul Gandhi's tweet that he stands with the last person in line as a "confession" of his reported remarks that his party is for Muslims. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told reporters that Gandhi has not denied the comments, seized by the saffron party to accuse him of Muslim appeasement, and claimed that the Congress leader is in competition with AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi to "usurp" the legacy of Pakistan founder M A Jinnah. "He (Gandhi) has still not denied it. We could not see a negation of what Rahul Gandhi has said. It is a confession. He has clearly accepted it through his tweet that the Congress is a party for Muslims," Patra said. The tweet has confused rather than clarified, he told reporters. Patra was reacting after Gandhi tweeted that he stands with the persecuted and the last person in the line", breaking his silence on the controversy following a remark on the Congress being a "party for Muslims" attributed to him. The BJP leader claimed that the Congress chose to send out a message as part of its "deliberate conspiracy" and leaked the information about Gandhi's meeting with Muslim intellectuals. While Congress leaders claimed that their party would send a notice to the Urdu paper which first carried the report, they never did so and the party's minority department's head Nadeem Javed asserted in an interview to the same daily that Gandhi had indeed made those comments, Patra said. He also referred to Owaisi's alleged comments over lack of representation of Muslims in the Army and said even an institution like this has become a matter of the AIMIM leader's divisive agenda. He said Congress leader Veerappa Moily had also spoken on similar lines. There is a sense of competition between Rahul Gandhi and Owaisi as to who would usurp the ideology of Jinnah, he alleged. An attempt to carry out a religious census of Army was made during the UPA, he said. "Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Owaisi have been trying to divide the country with their 'Jinnahwadi' ideology but it will not succeed," he said. Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi over his tweet that he seeks out those in pain and embrace them and loves all living beings, and that he is the Congress, Patra said it was like the statement that 'Indira is India and India is Indira'. The Congress only cheated the last man in the line during its rule of many decades, he said, adding that it is Deen Dayal Upadhyay, a key BJP ideologue who spoke about 'antodyaya', the rise of the last man in the line. The Modi government with its vision of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' has been working in line with this ideology and benefitting all Indians with its development measures, he said.

Rahul Gandhi in competition with Owaisi to seize Jinnah’s legacy: BJP

An open-air jail cafe is the latest attraction in Himachal Pradesh, as over 135 prisoners are working at six mobile vans in Shimla, Nahan and Dharamshala.

The mobile van canteen at the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) and book cafe at the Taka Bench are popular attractions for locals and tourists here.

Conceptualized by the Himachal Pradesh Director General of Prisons, Somesh Goyal, the mobile canteens, book cafe and jail-made products including bakery, handloom and other cuisines have proved to be life changers for these prisoners.

While talking to ANI, Somesh Goyal said, "The idea is to give a chance to the inmates for reform, rehabilitation and go out of the prison. 135 inmates are being sent out of jail on the basis of good conduct. Prisons department wants to rehabilitate the prisoners. We're giving job opportunities to prisoners and skilling them up. All our efforts have led to a lot of turnover of jail products that we manufacture."

The prisons department is earning over Rs 3.5 crores annually from the produce and open-air jail concept.

Inmates are providing different bakery products, coffee, tea and books to the visitors here.

"We have applied for tag name for the handloom and bakery product to genuine and quality of the products. The inmates are not only helping themselves but also helping their families from the prison," said Goyal 
One of the inmates, Jai Chand, who has been in the prison for past eight years as he is serving a life imprisonment for murder, runs the book cafe.

"Coming here at the cafe to meet the students, tourists and literary people has changed my life. I am hopeful about the future. I am also contributing to my family. I feel happy and give all the credits to the Director-General for giving me the chance," he said.

Another jail inmate, Bhupender Singh, said that the huge rush of people coming for lunch keeps him busy throughout the day.

The establishment of these cafes and libraries is seen as a welcome move to encourage prisoners to engage in mainstream activities.

The prisons department is earning over Rs 3.5 crores annually from the produce and open-air jail concept.

An open-air jail cafe is the latest attraction in Himachal Pradesh, as over 135 prisoners are working at six mobile vans in Shimla, Nahan and Dharamshala. The mobile van canteen at the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) and book cafe at the Taka Bench are popular attractions for locals and tourists here. Conceptualized by the Himachal Pradesh Director General of Prisons, Somesh Goyal, the mobile canteens, book cafe and jail-made products including bakery, handloom and other cuisines have proved to be life changers for these prisoners. While talking to ANI, Somesh Goyal said, "The idea is to give a chance to the inmates for reform, rehabilitation and go out of the prison. 135 inmates are being sent out of jail on the basis of good conduct. Prisons department wants to rehabilitate the prisoners. We're giving job opportunities to prisoners and skilling them up. All our efforts have led to a lot of turnover of jail products that we manufacture." The prisons department is earning over Rs 3.5 crores annually from the produce and open-air jail concept. Inmates are providing different bakery products, coffee, tea and books to the visitors here. "We have applied for tag name for the handloom and bakery product to genuine and quality of the products. The inmates are not only helping themselves but also helping their families from the prison," said Goyal One of the inmates, Jai Chand, who has been in the prison for past eight years as he is serving a life imprisonment for murder, runs the book cafe. "Coming here at the cafe to meet the students, tourists and literary people has changed my life. I am hopeful about the future. I am also contributing to my family. I feel happy and give all the credits to the Director-General for giving me the chance," he said. Another jail inmate, Bhupender Singh, said that the huge rush of people coming for lunch keeps him busy throughout the day. The establishment of these cafes and libraries is seen as a welcome move to encourage prisoners to engage in mainstream activities.

Tourists are dining at this Shimla prison

Goa government has cracked down on drinking in public, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday announced that the government would soon issue a notification on imposing a heavy fine on drinking alcohol in public.

According to reports, the new rule is likely to go into effect from August. Parrikar said that he desires to go ahead with the rule earlier but most probably it will come into effect from August 15.&nbsp;

"Mind you, there will be a heavy fine if you are found drinking (in public) from the month of August. We're issuing a notification very soon. I intend to do it before August, so that we can implement it from August 15," Parrikar said at a function here.

Chief Minister Parrikar also warned that littering the state with beer bottles would also attract a steeper fine.

"Same way littering will also have a heavy fine of Rs 2,500. I have caught two-three college students going there with beer bottles. This is not done," Parrikar said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

According to reports, the new rule is likely to go into effect from August.

Goa government has cracked down on drinking in public, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday announced that the government would soon issue a notification on imposing a heavy fine on drinking alcohol in public. According to reports, the new rule is likely to go into effect from August. Parrikar said that he desires to go ahead with the rule earlier but most probably it will come into effect from August 15. "Mind you, there will be a heavy fine if you are found drinking (in public) from the month of August. We're issuing a notification very soon. I intend to do it before August, so that we can implement it from August 15," Parrikar said at a function here. Chief Minister Parrikar also warned that littering the state with beer bottles would also attract a steeper fine. "Same way littering will also have a heavy fine of Rs 2,500. I have caught two-three college students going there with beer bottles. This is not done," Parrikar said. (With inputs from ANI)

Goa to soon impose heavy fine on drinking in public: Chief Minister

The <a href="http://wionews.com/videos/supreme-court-refuses-to-delay-hearing-on-section-377--150765">Supreme Court</a> reserves its verdict on Tuesday whether <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/how-twitter-reacted-to-section-377-lgbt-community-151084">to decriminalise Section 377</a>, that makes gay sex a punishable offence. &nbsp;

The court has asked the counsel to submit their written views irrespective of 'for' and 'against' of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/section-377-lgbt-community-forced-to-live-in-fear-says-supreme-court-151054">Section 377</a> by this Friday.

The case is being heard by the newly reconstituted bench, headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra and comprises of Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra.&nbsp;

Manoj George, the lawyer of the Christian community, opposed and said that <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/section-377-centre-tells-sc-it-will-let-court-decide-on-decriminalising-gay-sex-150720">homosexuality</a> should remain a crime and that sex objective should only be to have children.&nbsp;

Justice RF Nariman commented: 'If a law is against fundamental rights, we will not wait for the majority of the government to cancel it. As soon as we are assured that any law is against fundamental rights, we will take immediate action against it, and not wait for the government.'

Nariman said that if the government makes prostitution legal in India, then they can avail to health services. And if avoided, it can create many problems in the future.&nbsp;

Chief Justice Dipak Misra said to cancel to Section 377, it is important that both people are agreeing to homosexuality. Without the consent of a person, it will be considered as a violation of rights. &nbsp;

Last week, Centre passed the buck on Supreme Court and said that the Constitutionality of 377 is to be decided by the Court.&nbsp;

What is Section 377?&nbsp;

Section 377 refers to 'unnatural offences' and says whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, will get life imprisonment, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to pay a fine.

This archaic law dates back to 1861, and the ambit extends to any sexual union involving penile insertion.

The court has asked the council to submit their written views irrespective of 'for' and 'against' of Section 377 by this Friday

The Supreme Court reserves its verdict on Tuesday whether to decriminalise Section 377, that makes gay sex a punishable offence. The court has asked the counsel to submit their written views irrespective of 'for' and 'against' of Section 377 by this Friday. The case is being heard by the newly reconstituted bench, headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra and comprises of Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra. Manoj George, the lawyer of the Christian community, opposed and said that homosexuality should remain a crime and that sex objective should only be to have children. Justice RF Nariman commented: 'If a law is against fundamental rights, we will not wait for the majority of the government to cancel it. As soon as we are assured that any law is against fundamental rights, we will take immediate action against it, and not wait for the government.' Nariman said that if the government makes prostitution legal in India, then they can avail to health services. And if avoided, it can create many problems in the future. Chief Justice Dipak Misra said to cancel to Section 377, it is important that both people are agreeing to homosexuality. Without the consent of a person, it will be considered as a violation of rights. Last week, Centre passed the buck on Supreme Court and said that the Constitutionality of 377 is to be decided by the Court. What is Section 377? Section 377 refers to 'unnatural offences' and says whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, will get life imprisonment, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to pay a fine. This archaic law dates back to 1861, and the ambit extends to any sexual union involving penile insertion.

Decriminalisation of homosexuality: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Section 377

Nearly 34,000 people have been shifted to relief camps after floodwater inundated low-lying areas due to heavy rains that have lashed Kerala for the past one week.&nbsp

A total of 34,693 people from 8,033 families were shifted to 265 relief camps across the state, the control room monitoring rain-related incidents said.&nbsp

At least 12 people have died and six reported missing in rain-related incidents after the monsoon became active on July 9.

In the second spell of rains, around 36 houses were completely destroyed while 1,214 suffered partial damage, officials said. Control room officials said the flood water has not yet receded in several places.

Many parts of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts were still under flood water. Educational institutions in these two districts remained shut on Tuesday.

Road traffic continued to be hit in some parts of the state due to water-logging. Rains are expected to continue till July 19.

A total of 34,693 people from 8,033 families were shifted to 265 relief camps across the state, the control room monitoring rain-related incidents said

Nearly 34,000 people have been shifted to relief camps after floodwater inundated low-lying areas due to heavy rains that have lashed Kerala for the past one week. A total of 34,693 people from 8,033 families were shifted to 265 relief camps across the state, the control room monitoring rain-related incidents said. At least 12 people have died and six reported missing in rain-related incidents after the monsoon became active on July 9. In the second spell of rains, around 36 houses were completely destroyed while 1,214 suffered partial damage, officials said. Control room officials said the flood water has not yet receded in several places. Many parts of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts were still under flood water. Educational institutions in these two districts remained shut on Tuesday. Road traffic continued to be hit in some parts of the state due to water-logging. Rains are expected to continue till July 19.

Heavy rains in Kerala, at least 12 dead

''Let there be peace for all. Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all,'' said <a href="http://wionews.com/world/obama-to-deliver-speech-today-marking-100th-anniversary-of-nelson-mandelas-birth-152357">Nelson Mandela</a>, often called as the 'Gandhi of South Africa.'

<a href="http://wionews.com/videos/barack-obama-honours-mandela-on-his-100th-birth-anniversary-in-johannesburg--152427">Also watch:&nbsp;Barack Obama honours Mandela on his 100th birth anniversary in Johannesburg</a>

As the world is celebrating the <a href="http://wionews.com/world/nelson-mandelas-100th-birthday-celebrated-with-rigor-in-south-africa-obama-to-lead-centenary--152020">100th anniversary of Nelson's Mandela birth</a> on July 18, let's have a look at his connection with India and Mahatma Gandhi.

He first visited India in 1990 when he was released from jail after more than 27 years for leading the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.

Soon after Mandela’s release, the government of India had honoured Mandela with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

He chose the land of Gandhi as his first destination, whom he called his 'political guru' and a 'role model.'

An avowed Gandhian, Madiba, as Mandela was affectionately known around the world, always praised Gandhi for his principles of 'Satya and Ahimsa' and followed his philosophy.

"The Mahatma is an integral part of our history because it is here that he first experimented with truth here that he demonstrated his characteristic firmness in pursuit of justice here that he developed Satyagraha as a philosophy and a method of struggle," Mandela said at an unveiling of Gandhi Memorial in South Africa in 1993.

As South Africa's first black President from 1994 to 1999, Mandela drove close relations with India and the two countries forged bonds over groupings like IBSA and BRICS as a result of that closeness described by Mandela himself some years ago.

He will be remembered as much as an Indian leader and an inspirational figure in India.

(With inputs from agencies)

He first visited India in 1990 when he was released from jail after more than 27 years for leading the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa

''Let there be peace for all. Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all,'' said Nelson Mandela, often called as the 'Gandhi of South Africa.' Also watch: Barack Obama honours Mandela on his 100th birth anniversary in Johannesburg As the world is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Nelson's Mandela birth on July 18, let's have a look at his connection with India and Mahatma Gandhi. He first visited India in 1990 when he was released from jail after more than 27 years for leading the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Soon after Mandela’s release, the government of India had honoured Mandela with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. He chose the land of Gandhi as his first destination, whom he called his 'political guru' and a 'role model.' An avowed Gandhian, Madiba, as Mandela was affectionately known around the world, always praised Gandhi for his principles of 'Satya and Ahimsa' and followed his philosophy. "The Mahatma is an integral part of our history because it is here that he first experimented with truth here that he demonstrated his characteristic firmness in pursuit of justice here that he developed Satyagraha as a philosophy and a method of struggle," Mandela said at an unveiling of Gandhi Memorial in South Africa in 1993. As South Africa's first black President from 1994 to 1999, Mandela drove close relations with India and the two countries forged bonds over groupings like IBSA and BRICS as a result of that closeness described by Mandela himself some years ago. He will be remembered as much as an Indian leader and an inspirational figure in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian connection of 'Gandhian' Nelson Mandela

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday made optimum use of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/heading-coalition-government-is-like-swallowing-poison-teary-eyed-kumaraswamy-tells-jds-members-151770"> 'teary-eyed' video of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy</a> and said, unlike Karnataka's failed coalition politics, during 2019 polls India should opt for a "strong and decisive political leadership" under Narendra Modi.

"The leader of the world’s fastest-growing economy cannot be a ‘Bechara’ (helpless)," Mr Jaitley said.

In the article, Jaitley noted the coalition situation in Karnataka was a “repeat of what the Congress did to Chaudhary Charan Singh, Shri Chandrasekhar, Shri HD Deve Gowda and Shri IK Gujral.” Jaitley adds, “It is the obvious consequence of a non-ideological opportunistic alliance with no positive agenda. The basis of the negative agenda is ‘Keep Modi Out’.”

After referring to an earlier article written in May, Jaitley argued a “great opportunity” awaits India. “We need, for the next one decade and more, a high trajectory growth. We are faced with the global challenge of terrorism and the current economic challenges thrown up by rising crude oil prices and the trade war. To confront these challenges, India needs a strong and cohesive Government.” Jaitley added.

“India needs a government which is able to resist unfair pressures of either allies or regions. It is the high growth rate, investment into rural India and the social sectors, credibility and strength of the Indian economy which will help us to be domestically strong to meet these challenges,” Jaitley said.

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Jaitley referred to Kumaraswamy's confession of coalition compulsions. “In the past few days we witnessed the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, baring his emotions with tears, wetting his eyes and declining to accept bouquets and garlands,” Jaitley noted.

Jaitley argued that “non-ideological” coalitions such as the one in Karnataka “always get trapped within their own contradictions” as their only object is their survival, not service to the nation.

Jaitley made a swiping remark on Kumaraswamy saying that if any such coalition comes to power, and the Prime Minister has to weep before the cameras with an only wish of how to exit from office, it will be a scenario worse than the policy paralysis of UPA II.

Jaitley's remarks were directed towards the emotional outburst of Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy, who on Sunday had equated the burden of carrying the weight of a coalition government to 'swallowing poison' like Lord Shiva.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday made optimum use of the 'teary-eyed' video of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and said, unlike Karnataka's failed coalition politics, during 2019 polls India should opt for a "strong and decisive political leadership" under Narendra Modi. "The leader of the world’s fastest-growing economy cannot be a ‘Bechara’ (helpless)," Mr Jaitley said. In the article, Jaitley noted the coalition situation in Karnataka was a “repeat of what the Congress did to Chaudhary Charan Singh, Shri Chandrasekhar, Shri HD Deve Gowda and Shri IK Gujral.” Jaitley adds, “It is the obvious consequence of a non-ideological opportunistic alliance with no positive agenda. The basis of the negative agenda is ‘Keep Modi Out’.” After referring to an earlier article written in May, Jaitley argued a “great opportunity” awaits India. “We need, for the next one decade and more, a high trajectory growth. We are faced with the global challenge of terrorism and the current economic challenges thrown up by rising crude oil prices and the trade war. To confront these challenges, India needs a strong and cohesive Government.” Jaitley added. “India needs a government which is able to resist unfair pressures of either allies or regions. It is the high growth rate, investment into rural India and the social sectors, credibility and strength of the Indian economy which will help us to be domestically strong to meet these challenges,” Jaitley said. × Jaitley referred to Kumaraswamy's confession of coalition compulsions. “In the past few days we witnessed the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, baring his emotions with tears, wetting his eyes and declining to accept bouquets and garlands,” Jaitley noted. Jaitley argued that “non-ideological” coalitions such as the one in Karnataka “always get trapped within their own contradictions” as their only object is their survival, not service to the nation. Jaitley made a swiping remark on Kumaraswamy saying that if any such coalition comes to power, and the Prime Minister has to weep before the cameras with an only wish of how to exit from office, it will be a scenario worse than the policy paralysis of UPA II.

India needs strong leader like Modi, not tragedy king like Kumaraswamy: Jaitley

Pakistan will file its second counter-memorial in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Tuesday, on the conviction of retired Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism.

The 400-page reply will be submitted by Foreign Office Director India Dr Fareha Bugti, who has arrived at The Hague for the purpose, Geo TV reported.

Pakistan's rejoinder has been prepared by a team of experts led by Pakistan's Attorney General.

Islamabad, in its counter-memorial, states that Jadhav is not an ordinary person and does not fall under the purview of the Vienna Convention.

On April 17, India had submitted a fresh set of pleadings in the ICJ. The pleadings were filed in response to Pakistan's submissions to the court.

Pakistan was given time until July 17 by the court to file its response (rejoinder).

It may be recalled that India first approached the court on May 8 last year, for egregious violations of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in the matter.

The court, on May 18 last year, indicated provisional measures as requested by India and passed an order obligating Pakistan not to carry out the sentence that was awarded to Jadhav through a farcical trial by Pakistan.

As per the court order, India had filed written pleadings (Memorial) in the case on September 13, 2017, and Pakistan filed its counter-memorial in December last year.

Jadhav was arrested in Balochistan, Pakistan, over charges of alleged involvement in espionage and subversive activities for India's intelligence agency - the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).

India, however, maintains that Jadhav was a former naval officer and kidnapped from Iran, where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy.

On April 10, 2017, Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) in Pakistan.

Over a month later, the ICJ stayed the hanging after India approached it against the death sentence.&nbsp

Pakistan was given time until July 17 by the court to file its response (rejoinder).

Pakistan will file its second counter-memorial in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Tuesday, on the conviction of retired Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death in April last year on charges of espionage and terrorism. The 400-page reply will be submitted by Foreign Office Director India Dr Fareha Bugti, who has arrived at The Hague for the purpose, Geo TV reported. Pakistan's rejoinder has been prepared by a team of experts led by Pakistan's Attorney General. Islamabad, in its counter-memorial, states that Jadhav is not an ordinary person and does not fall under the purview of the Vienna Convention. On April 17, India had submitted a fresh set of pleadings in the ICJ. The pleadings were filed in response to Pakistan's submissions to the court. Pakistan was given time until July 17 by the court to file its response (rejoinder). It may be recalled that India first approached the court on May 8 last year, for egregious violations of the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, by Pakistan in the matter. The court, on May 18 last year, indicated provisional measures as requested by India and passed an order obligating Pakistan not to carry out the sentence that was awarded to Jadhav through a farcical trial by Pakistan. As per the court order, India had filed written pleadings (Memorial) in the case on September 13, 2017, and Pakistan filed its counter-memorial in December last year. Jadhav was arrested in Balochistan, Pakistan, over charges of alleged involvement in espionage and subversive activities for India's intelligence agency - the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). India, however, maintains that Jadhav was a former naval officer and kidnapped from Iran, where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy. On April 10, 2017, Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) in Pakistan. Over a month later, the ICJ stayed the hanging after India approached it against the death sentence.

Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Pakistan to file counter-memorial today

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-reserves-judgement-on-section-377-152375">Decriminalisation of homosexuality: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Section 377</a>

The Supreme Court reserves its verdict on Tuesday whether to decriminalise Section 377, that makes gay sex a punishable offence. &nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-iran-exploring-ways-of-working-around-us-sanctions-iran-deputy-foreign-minister-to-wion-152365">India, Iran exploring ways of working around US sanctions: Iran deputy foreign minister to WION</a>

India and Iran are exploring ways of working around US sanctions by making oil payments in the rupee and the euro, indicating some sort of trilateral cooperation between India, Iran and the European Union.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharif-his-daughter-to-remain-in-jail-until-elections-as-court-adjourns-hearing-on-their-appeals-152395">Nawaz Sharif, daughter Maryam to remain in jail until elections as court adjourns hearing on their appeals</a>

A Pakistani court on Tuesday adjourned until last week of July the hearing of appeals filed by jailed former premier Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law against their conviction in a corruption case, shattering their hope to come out of jail before polls to boost the campaign of their party.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-japan-sign-major-trade-deal-in-message-against-protectionism-152411">EU, Japan sign major trade deal in 'message against protectionism'</a>

Japan and the EU signed a sweeping free trade deal Tuesday saying they were sending a "clear message" against protectionism, as Washington puts up barriers and threatens a trade war.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uks-official-brexit-campaign-fined-referred-to-police-152390">UK's official Brexit campaign fined, referred to police</a>

Britain's official Brexit campaign, Vote Leave, has been fined for breaking spending rules in the 2016 EU membership referendum, the Electoral Commission announced Tuesday, adding that it had referred the case to the police.

&nbsp

Decriminalisation of homosexuality: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Section 377 The Supreme Court reserves its verdict on Tuesday whether to decriminalise Section 377, that makes gay sex a punishable offence. India, Iran exploring ways of working around US sanctions: Iran deputy foreign minister to WION India and Iran are exploring ways of working around US sanctions by making oil payments in the rupee and the euro, indicating some sort of trilateral cooperation between India, Iran and the European Union. Nawaz Sharif, daughter Maryam to remain in jail until elections as court adjourns hearing on their appeals A Pakistani court on Tuesday adjourned until last week of July the hearing of appeals filed by jailed former premier Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law against their conviction in a corruption case, shattering their hope to come out of jail before polls to boost the campaign of their party. EU, Japan sign major trade deal in 'message against protectionism' Japan and the EU signed a sweeping free trade deal Tuesday saying they were sending a "clear message" against protectionism, as Washington puts up barriers and threatens a trade war. UK's official Brexit campaign fined, referred to police Britain's official Brexit campaign, Vote Leave, has been fined for breaking spending rules in the 2016 EU membership referendum, the Electoral Commission announced Tuesday, adding that it had referred the case to the police.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has said that empowerment of women is central to achieve the objective of inclusive, equitable and sustainable development.

He further insisted that women empowerment is not only a national goal but also a global agenda.

The Vice President's comments came while addressing the gathering after inaugurating the International Conference on 'Empowering Women: Fostering Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainability' organized by the NITI Aayog and Shri Ram College of Commerce.

"Empowerment of women is central to achieving the objective of inclusive, equitable and sustainable development and it is not the only national goal but a global agenda. Women have been doing exceedingly well in higher professional education and so we need to ensure their commensurate participation in the formal economy," Naidu said.

"Women's active participation in decision making has a positive impact on education, health, nutrition, employment and social protection," he added.

Naidu also stressed that lack of equal access to education and employment, inequalities in the labour market, rising sexual violence and unequal division of unpaid care and domestic work remain the key barriers to the advancement of women.

NITI Aayog's Women Entrepreneurship Platform and Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, have jointly organised the two-day conference which saw representation from countries across various continents.&nbsp;

The Vice President's comments came while addressing the gathering after inaugurating the International Conference on empowering women.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has said that empowerment of women is central to achieve the objective of inclusive, equitable and sustainable development. He further insisted that women empowerment is not only a national goal but also a global agenda. The Vice President's comments came while addressing the gathering after inaugurating the International Conference on 'Empowering Women: Fostering Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainability' organized by the NITI Aayog and Shri Ram College of Commerce. "Empowerment of women is central to achieving the objective of inclusive, equitable and sustainable development and it is not the only national goal but a global agenda. Women have been doing exceedingly well in higher professional education and so we need to ensure their commensurate participation in the formal economy," Naidu said. "Women's active participation in decision making has a positive impact on education, health, nutrition, employment and social protection," he added. Naidu also stressed that lack of equal access to education and employment, inequalities in the labour market, rising sexual violence and unequal division of unpaid care and domestic work remain the key barriers to the advancement of women. NITI Aayog's Women Entrepreneurship Platform and Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, have jointly organised the two-day conference which saw representation from countries across various continents.

Venkaiah Naidu pitches for women empowerment

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has asserted that a free judicial system is essential for democracy.

Delivering a lecture at an event in New Delhi yesterday, the Union Minister said, "A free judicial system is essential for democracy. It is the duty of the government to give assistance and infrastructure but the obligation to run the judicial system must rest only and only with the judiciary."

Prasad added that there should be accountability in the judiciary, something which would help judges find out whether the system is in order.

He said, "If there is a need for accountability in all forms of government, then, there is also a need for considering the possibility of accountability among the judiciary as to how the system is working, do we need to expedite it, do we need to explore extra avenues".&nbsp

Prasad added that there should be accountability in the judiciary.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has asserted that a free judicial system is essential for democracy. Delivering a lecture at an event in New Delhi yesterday, the Union Minister said, "A free judicial system is essential for democracy. It is the duty of the government to give assistance and infrastructure but the obligation to run the judicial system must rest only and only with the judiciary." Prasad added that there should be accountability in the judiciary, something which would help judges find out whether the system is in order. He said, "If there is a need for accountability in all forms of government, then, there is also a need for considering the possibility of accountability among the judiciary as to how the system is working, do we need to expedite it, do we need to explore extra avenues".

Free judicial system essential for democracy: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Eighteen men have been held in Chennai for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl for seven months, ANI reported Tuesday.&nbsp;

ANI said the accused included security guards, lift operators, and plumbers who worked at the apartment complex where the girl lives.&nbsp;

Chennai High Court Advocate Association President Mohana Krishnan has announced that no lawyer will take the case of the 18 accused.

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Chennai High Court Advocate Association President Mohana Krishnan has announced that no lawyer will take the case of the 18 accused, who sexually harassed an 11-year-old girl for over a period of 7 months. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1019197538065354752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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News reports said the girl was hearing-impaired.&nbsp;

The reports said she was first raped by a lift operator.&nbsp;

Three days later, the reports said, the lift operator brought along two men reeking of alchohol, who also raped the minor girl. In time, other men joined in the crime.&nbsp;

The men would sedate the girl with drug-laced soft drinks, and then rape her. The reports said a total of 22 men raped the minor girl.&nbsp;

Police said the 300-flat apartment complex where the girl lived was largely empty, allowing the men to go about their crime largely unhindered.&nbsp;

The minor girl finally recounted her ordeal to her older sister when she came home for her vacation from college in&nbsp;Delhi.&nbsp;

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18 men held for allegedly sexually harassing an 11-year-old girl for over a period of 7 months in Chennai. The accused involve security men, lift operator & water suppliers in the apartment where the minor girl stays. Police investigation underway <a href="https://t.co/DcJIUhwDCG">pic.twitter.com/DcJIUhwDCG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1019088475772080129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India has recently seen a sharp spike in rapes of children.&nbsp;

National Crime Records Bureau data for 2016 showed an 82% rise in rapes of children compared to 2015. The highest rise was registered in Uttar Pradesh, where figures trebled.&nbsp;

2016 NCRB data also showed that out of all rape victims, four out of 10 (or 43.3%) were children (0 to 17 years of age).&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The girl's ordeal had been continuing for seven months. She was hearing impaired

Eighteen men have been held in Chennai for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl for seven months, ANI reported Tuesday. ANI said the accused included security guards, lift operators, and plumbers who worked at the apartment complex where the girl lives. Chennai High Court Advocate Association President Mohana Krishnan has announced that no lawyer will take the case of the 18 accused. Chennai High Court Advocate Association President Mohana Krishnan has announced that no lawyer will take the case of the 18 accused, who sexually harassed an 11-year-old girl for over a period of 7 months. #TamilNadu — ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2018 × News reports said the girl was hearing-impaired. The reports said she was first raped by a lift operator. Three days later, the reports said, the lift operator brought along two men reeking of alchohol, who also raped the minor girl. In time, other men joined in the crime. The men would sedate the girl with drug-laced soft drinks, and then rape her. The reports said a total of 22 men raped the minor girl. Police said the 300-flat apartment complex where the girl lived was largely empty, allowing the men to go about their crime largely unhindered. The minor girl finally recounted her ordeal to her older sister when she came home for her vacation from college in Delhi. 18 men held for allegedly sexually harassing an 11-year-old girl for over a period of 7 months in Chennai. The accused involve security men, lift operator & water suppliers in the apartment where the minor girl stays. Police investigation underway pic.twitter.com/DcJIUhwDCG — ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2018 × India has recently seen a sharp spike in rapes of children. National Crime Records Bureau data for 2016 showed an 82% rise in rapes of children compared to 2015. The highest rise was registered in Uttar Pradesh, where figures trebled. 2016 NCRB data also showed that out of all rape victims, four out of 10 (or 43.3%) were children (0 to 17 years of age).

Chennai: 18 held for allegedly raping 11-year-old for 7 months, they worked at her apartment complex

Self-styled godman Daati Maharaj accused of raping a disciple in his ashrams here and Rajasthan joined the probe in the case here today, the police said.

He was sent a notice asking him to join the probe by Wednesday. He reached the Crime Branch office today and his questioning is underway, they added.

On Saturday, a Delhi Police team had visited the godman's ashram in Pali, Rajasthan, to gather evidence.

The team, which failed to find the godman at the ashram, was accompanied by the rape victim.

The woman had filed a complaint last Sunday against Daati Maharaj at the Fatehpur Beri police station here in south Delhi.

The case was later transferred to the Crime Branch.

The woman had alleged that she was sexually abused at Daati Maharaj's ashrams in Delhi and Rajasthan and had also named two male disciples of the godman in her complaint.

Delhi Commission for Women had recently demanded the godman's arrest.

The Delhi Police had earlier issued a lookout circular against Daati Maharaj to ensure that he does not leave the country.

The woman has told the police that she had been a disciple of Daati Maharaj for a decade but after she was raped by him, she returned to her home in Rajasthan.

He was sent a notice asking him to join the probe by Wednesday. He reached the Crime Branch office today and his questioning is underway, they added

Self-styled godman Daati Maharaj accused of raping a disciple in his ashrams here and Rajasthan joined the probe in the case here today, the police said. He was sent a notice asking him to join the probe by Wednesday. He reached the Crime Branch office today and his questioning is underway, they added. On Saturday, a Delhi Police team had visited the godman's ashram in Pali, Rajasthan, to gather evidence. The team, which failed to find the godman at the ashram, was accompanied by the rape victim. The woman had filed a complaint last Sunday against Daati Maharaj at the Fatehpur Beri police station here in south Delhi. The case was later transferred to the Crime Branch. The woman had alleged that she was sexually abused at Daati Maharaj's ashrams in Delhi and Rajasthan and had also named two male disciples of the godman in her complaint. Delhi Commission for Women had recently demanded the godman's arrest. The Delhi Police had earlier issued a lookout circular against Daati Maharaj to ensure that he does not leave the country. The woman has told the police that she had been a disciple of Daati Maharaj for a decade but after she was raped by him, she returned to her home in Rajasthan.

Self-styled godman Daati Maharaj joins probe in rape case

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today made a surprise visit to the transport authority office in Burari and after receiving a barrage of complaints he directed the officers concerned to decentralising the work done there and open vehicle fitness test centres across the city by next month.

Accompanied by Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot and senior officials of the department including Transport Commissioner Varsha Joshi, the chief minister met owners of autorickshaws and other commercial vehicles and listened to their complaints.

"It was complained that work here gets done quickly through touts otherwise it lingers for months. The fitness test centres (for vehicles) will be opened across the city by next month. I have also sought a list of works done here and we will completely decentralise it," Kejriwal told reporters.

He instructed the officers to ensure that by August 1, as many vehicle fitness test centres are opened in the city as are required.

"If 5,000 vehicle fitness test centres are required to be opened in the city, it should be opened," the chief minister said.

Learning about the difficulty faced by autorickshaw owners in purchasing and recharging SIM cards for GPS, he directed the transport department officials to ensure that it was made widely available.

Seeing long queues at the counters of the transport authority office, Kejriwal directed the transport commissioner to make surprise visit once a week and seek feedback from at least 50 people.

"There is no need for long queues. Corrupt officers will be punished and the work done here will be decentralised," he said and directed transport department officials to give him a list including name, address and the work for which people visited the transport department office Burari in the last 10 days.

The Burari transport authority office is visited by thousands every day for permit, vehicle fitness tests and other paper works of different types of commercial vehicles including autorickshaws and taxis

"If 5,000 vehicle fitness test centres are required to be opened in the city, it should be opened," the chief minister said

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today made a surprise visit to the transport authority office in Burari and after receiving a barrage of complaints he directed the officers concerned to decentralising the work done there and open vehicle fitness test centres across the city by next month. Accompanied by Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot and senior officials of the department including Transport Commissioner Varsha Joshi, the chief minister met owners of autorickshaws and other commercial vehicles and listened to their complaints. "It was complained that work here gets done quickly through touts otherwise it lingers for months. The fitness test centres (for vehicles) will be opened across the city by next month. I have also sought a list of works done here and we will completely decentralise it," Kejriwal told reporters. He instructed the officers to ensure that by August 1, as many vehicle fitness test centres are opened in the city as are required. "If 5,000 vehicle fitness test centres are required to be opened in the city, it should be opened," the chief minister said. Learning about the difficulty faced by autorickshaw owners in purchasing and recharging SIM cards for GPS, he directed the transport department officials to ensure that it was made widely available. Seeing long queues at the counters of the transport authority office, Kejriwal directed the transport commissioner to make surprise visit once a week and seek feedback from at least 50 people. "There is no need for long queues. Corrupt officers will be punished and the work done here will be decentralised," he said and directed transport department officials to give him a list including name, address and the work for which people visited the transport department office Burari in the last 10 days. The Burari transport authority office is visited by thousands every day for permit, vehicle fitness tests and other paper works of different types of commercial vehicles including autorickshaws and taxis

Vehicle fitness test centres to open across Delhi: Kejriwal

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/mayawati-removes-bsp-leader-from-post-for-rahul-gandhi-comment-152345">Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati has removed party vice-chairperson and national coordinator Jaiprakash Singh </a>after he called Congress president Rahul Gandhi unfit for the prime ministerial post.

Singh slammed the BJP for playing vote politics in the name of ''cow, river Ganga and cow dunk,'' and also said that if country is afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi then he's afraid of BSP supremo Mayawati.&nbsp

"If this country is afraid of Modi then Modi is afraid of Mayawati. There is nothing wrong with them. The problem is with the voters of this nation. They ask for votes in the name of cow, river Ganga and cow dunk,"Jaiprakash Singh said while addressing a public gathering here.

"They say that make cow your mother. However, on other hand, they send their own mother to old age homes. No. A cow can be a good and innocent animal. She can eat less and give more milk, but a cow can never be anybody's mother. A mother is someone who has given birth to us," he added.

Besides BJP, Singh also criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress while urging people to "stop begging."

"They say that we will give free laptop, mobile and internet data. They give wheat for Rs 2 per kg. But Mayawati says no, we will give you education and job and then you will not have to eat Rs 2 per kg rice as you can also afford to buy rice for Rs 200 per kg. Stop begging," he said.

Later, he claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi can never get successful in Indian politics.

"I can bet on this that Rahul Gandhi can never get successful in Indian politics. This country has only one alternative. That is Mayawati," Singh said while calling her as 'living goddess.'

Singh urged people to make Mayawati as the Prime Minister of India and claimed that she will give arms to everyone in the country for self-defence.

"Can you get armors in the name of Army? Without armors, there can't be any Army. If you want arms then there is only one option, which is politics. Make Mayawati the Prime Minister of this country. Just like how she gave arms license to all in Uttar Pradesh, similarly, she will allow arms to all for self-defence and not to harm anybody. Mayawati is a living god," he said.

"If this country is afraid of Modi then Modi is afraid of Mayawati

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati has removed party vice-chairperson and national coordinator Jaiprakash Singh after he called Congress president Rahul Gandhi unfit for the prime ministerial post. Singh slammed the BJP for playing vote politics in the name of ''cow, river Ganga and cow dunk,'' and also said that if country is afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi then he's afraid of BSP supremo Mayawati. "If this country is afraid of Modi then Modi is afraid of Mayawati. There is nothing wrong with them. The problem is with the voters of this nation. They ask for votes in the name of cow, river Ganga and cow dunk,"Jaiprakash Singh said while addressing a public gathering here. "They say that make cow your mother. However, on other hand, they send their own mother to old age homes. No. A cow can be a good and innocent animal. She can eat less and give more milk, but a cow can never be anybody's mother. A mother is someone who has given birth to us," he added. Besides BJP, Singh also criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress while urging people to "stop begging." "They say that we will give free laptop, mobile and internet data. They give wheat for Rs 2 per kg. But Mayawati says no, we will give you education and job and then you will not have to eat Rs 2 per kg rice as you can also afford to buy rice for Rs 200 per kg. Stop begging," he said. Later, he claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi can never get successful in Indian politics. "I can bet on this that Rahul Gandhi can never get successful in Indian politics. This country has only one alternative. That is Mayawati," Singh said while calling her as 'living goddess.' Singh urged people to make Mayawati as the Prime Minister of India and claimed that she will give arms to everyone in the country for self-defence. "Can you get armors in the name of Army? Without armors, there can't be any Army. If you want arms then there is only one option, which is politics. Make Mayawati the Prime Minister of this country. Just like how she gave arms license to all in Uttar Pradesh, similarly, she will allow arms to all for self-defence and not to harm anybody. Mayawati is a living god," he said.

If this country is afraid of Modi then Modi is afraid of Mayawati: Jaiprakash Singh

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Opposition parties to move forward for filling Rajya Sabha deputy chairman post

China set up unmanned weather station in Tibet near India border

News brief: Big stories of the day

Rahul Gandhi in competition with Owaisi to seize Jinnah’s legacy: BJP

Tourists are dining at this Shimla prison

Goa to soon impose heavy fine on drinking in public: Chief Minister

Decriminalisation of homosexuality: Supreme Court reserves verdict on Section 377

Heavy rains in Kerala, at least 12 dead

Indian connection of 'Gandhian' Nelson Mandela

India needs strong leader like Modi, not tragedy king like Kumaraswamy: Jaitley

Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Pakistan to file counter-memorial today

News brief: Big stories of the day

Venkaiah Naidu pitches for women empowerment

Free judicial system essential for democracy: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Chennai: 18 held for allegedly raping 11-year-old for 7 months, they worked at her apartment complex

Self-styled godman Daati Maharaj joins probe in rape case

Vehicle fitness test centres to open across Delhi: Kejriwal

If this country is afraid of Modi then Modi is afraid of Mayawati: Jaiprakash Singh